Roswell Fanatics

Chapter 26
5 December 2019

A young man anxiously waits in a moonlit copse. Hearing faint movement he blends in with trees until the danger passes. His name is whispered on the breeze calling him to the meeting place. Running silently he reaches the ruined temple. Sensing the caller inside he enters.

"Aeden I’m so glad you are OK. Are you being treated well? How’s the training going?"

Blushing he answers, "Aunt Liz I’m fine! Right now Lord Dearborn is in high favor with Khivar. We’ve been training with his personal guard. Let me tell you what I know for sure. Then we’ll get to the rumors and speculations. Tess and Zannor are still ‘sick’ and confined to quarters. His plans to have Thalia marry Zannor are no more. I don’t know how you did it but Khivar still hasn’t found out Max escaped."

Aeden gestures for Liz to sit with him on the bench. "Now comes the fun part. Evidently, all of the books concerning the Granolith are missing. The last record of them being checked out is over 70 years ago. His men are checking all of the temples in the solar system. Now we come to the weirdest part of all Thalia is more important than anyone knew. Khivar married Lisele of Anholt. The marriage of Khivar and Lisele united all of the bloodlines of the former royal house of Anholt. If Thalia had been a boy she would be heir to the planet of Anholt. There is a legend saying that once the blood of the royal house was reunited then the Granolith can be reclaimed."

In disbelief Liz cries, "What? How?"

"Khivar’s whole reason for overthrowing Zan had to do with recovering the Granolith. He couldn’t get it to work by himself. That is when he decided to try to fulfill the prophecy. He studied the bloodlines for years to find the right candidate. Khivar abducted Lisele and forced her to marry him. Thalia is the only child of theirs who survived infancy. Khivar also had a backup plan in place. Having Tess get pregnant with Max’s child. Now neither of his plans has worked and he is getting desperate. The people are becoming more vocal in their displeasure under Khivar’s rule."

"I knew there was a reason to move Rian and Mellan’s wedding up. He should be talking with her now. Anymore news?"

"Khivar is planning something militarily but I don’t know if it is just to subdue the populace or if he has found us out."

"I think it’s time to pull you out. I have moved up the timeline of the invasion and I don’t want you to get stuck on the wrong side."

"I agree. I’ve learned the battle tactics of Khivar’s generals and his personal guard. Dad, Riona, and I are going to have quite a conversation when we get home."

"Aeden take my hand and let’s go home." Holding hands the two figures shimmer into nothingness.


Antarian Resistance Headquarters-Earth

Liz and Aeden arrive back at the compound. Furious Liz immediately begins calling for Alaric. ~ALARIC!!! Meet me in my office now! ~

Arriving at her office Liz is greeted by a worried and furious Isabel, "Where is my SON? You sent him on a mission didn’t you? How could you do that and not consult with Alex and I?"

"Isabel I know you are concerned but spying is his chosen profession. I sent him on a mission and right now I can’t tell you any of the details."

Saber’s Ice Princess mask falls into place. In an arctic tone, "How dare you send my 15 year old son out on a mission. Are you out of your mind? He is still a child! I want you to bring him back NOW!"

The cloak of regality slips upon Liz. Power emanates from her being, face remote her voice demanding absolute obedience, "Silence."

Isabel stops in mid rant knowing she has crossed the line. "Princess of the Blood Royal we have taken steps to ensure our beloved nephews safety. We sent our own bodyguard Mariska with him. The decision was not yours to be made. He volunteered for the mission and is doing his duty as a son of the Blood Royal. You have our permission to withdraw except for Alaric."

Once the room had emptied, Liz looks upon her most trusted advisor with pure fury. "You have a lot of explaining to do Alaric."

Family Room

Max, Rigan, Kyle, and Ava are watching Isabel pace back and forth in front of the fireplace. She is in full rant mode, "How dare she? Alex, she didn’t even discuss it with us!" Wailing, "Amergin is god knows where and there is nothing we can do."

At this point Alex embraces a sobbing Isabel. He murmurs soft words to soothe her. Isabel turns to Max with a tearstained face pleading, "Please Max talk to Liz I need to know where my son is."

Unable to handle his sister’s tears he agrees. Max looks up to see Rigan behind Isabel and Alex shaking his head no. Max ignores the warning and reassures his sister. Rigan leaves the room and Max follows him out.

"Dad did you learn nothing from your Judgment? You said you wanted to be mom’s sanctuary how can you be that for her if you interfere in this way? Trust her, trust in her decisions. Mom would not have sent Amergin out unless his specific talents were needed. Every precaution has been taken to keep him safe she even sent her own bodyguard with him."

"Does this mean you know where he is?"

Indignant Rigan replies, "I don’t know and if I did I wouldn’t tell you. Mom, Alaric, Serena, and Uncle Michael made the decision together. If I had needed to know I would’ve been part of the decision making process. Mom has to have absolute trust in us and we in her and her decisions for this to work. If you can’t give her that kind of support don’t get involved!"

"Rigan I’m sorry. I never thought…"

"That’s always been your problem you don’t think things through. You would have gone and confronted mom and destroyed what little peace she has. Do you have any idea what she has been doing for the last 48 hours? Of course, not it’s always about you. Mom is to the breaking point tired. She has been doing full-bodied astral projections and ferrying people to different worlds. She is preparing for a war to win back the kingdom you lost and to top it off she is running said kingdom. You would think after sitting on your ass in jail for 20 years some of the time would have been spent in reflection. Father you need to decide where your loyalty’s lay with your bond-mate and mother of your children or the rest of them. You have to change your patterns of thinking you are not the leader anymore. Aunt Isabel is always throwing a hissy fit about something it's part of the reason she has never become First Advisor. Father please don’t repeat Aunt Isabel’s mistakes." Shooting a parting look at his father Rigan walks away.

Chapter 27
6 December 2019

After a frustrating interview with Alaric, Liz seeks her bed. To her delight, Max is already there and asleep. Hurrying through her absolutions, she seeks the comfort of his arms. With a contented sigh Max settles back into sleep Liz secure in his arms.

Hour’s later Liz wakes to find Max watching her. “Morning love,” he murmurs bending down for a kiss.

“Will you just hold me for a while?”

Concerned he cradles her in his arms, “Are you OK?”

“You are my comfort, my sanctuary when I am in your arms I can forget everything else exists but us.” Relaxed and secure Liz begins to describe the past few days. “Siban’s vision disturbed me greatly. I can’t shake the feeling Rian and Mellan need to be married before the invasion begins. I talked to Rian and brought him back with me to talk to her. They should be making the announcement sometime today. Isabel is sure to pitch yet another fit today when she finds out. We’ll be totally upsetting her wedding arrangements. Although it is highly doubtful she will speak to me today. I sent Amergin out on a reconnaissance mission with Mariska. I need his talents to provide a cover for the real mission. Isabel found out and was on the warpath last night. On to more pleasant topics, I brought Aeden home with me last night. I know it has been hard on Maria and Michael to have him off planet the last few years. He has been on Antar in Lord Dearborn’s service learning their fighting techniques and strategies.”

“Whose idea was that?”

“Actually it started with a conversation between Michael and Aeden. They presented the idea to me and Larek helped me set it up with old Lord Dearborn. His son has since inherited and openly allied himself with Khivar. Aeden became Dearborn’s personal squire and has been able to provide us with so much valuable information."

On Antar

Khivar and Thalia are strolling about the palace gardens he wonders aloud, “What would be the most effective way to quiet the populace? The army is ready but once martial law is enforced there is no going back.”

Grinning impishly Thalia says, “Daddy I have an idea.”

“Dazzle me.”

“Don’t patronize me! I may not be a boy but it doesn’t mean I am not extremely capable.”

Ruefully he says, “I’m sorry I really should know better by now.”

“Yes, you should.” Thalia begins to storm off but turns around and asks, “What is the one thing we have in common with the people?”

“Thalia, I am not in the mood to play games!”

“Oh ye of little imagination the answer is very simple we all hate Tess. I think we should put my beloved step-mother on trial for treason.”

Khivar is stunned by the brilliance of it. Thalia continues, “Daddy think of the possibilities. It would deflect the attention of the populace away from you and keep the people happily occupied. The military need not ever get involved.”

Gleeful Khivar hugs his daughter, “My love you are a genius!”

Chapter 28
6 December 2019

Antar

“I command you to let me out of here! Do you hear me? I am your Queen!”

A new guard asks, “Does she ever shut up?”

“No”

A page enters asking for the Guard Captain. He hands the captain a message from the Chamberlain. After reading the note he says, “We are to take the prisoner to the Throne Room.”

Blue eyes blazing Tess yells, “Finally! You are going to regret your treatment of me. I am going to make you pay!”

The Guard Captain smirks, “She goes in chains.”

“What? I’m the Queen! I demand that you…”

The Guard Captain interrupts, “I merely obey my King.”

Fuming Tess is lead out under guard. Once they reach the Throne Room the Guard hits Tess across the back of her knees. “Kneel before your Lord and Master!”

Khivar sits on his throne grinning at the sight Tess presents. “My dear I really love the new fashion statement chains really become you.”

Tess looks upon the crowd of tittering courtiers. ~Khivar is going to pay for this humiliation ~

Tess demands, “Khivar what is the meaning of this?”

Khivar smiles and signals the High Justicar to begin. “Tess Harding hybrid clone of Princess Ava you are charged with high treason.”

The courtiers gasp in shock. The High Justicar ignores them and continues on, “Tess Harding you are accused of plotting against the legitimate government of this planet. You are accused of conspiracy to commit murder. Your trial will begin one week from today.”

In stunned silence Tess is led away.

Altir – Antarian Resistance Central Command

“War Leader an unidentified ship has entered the solar system.”

Riona muses, “The next supply ship isn’t supposed to arrive until next week. What was the ships point of entry?”

“The Antarian system”

“Use the Skins standard protocol. Lyris move your group into position at the airfield. Stay hidden until we identify the ship as friend or foe.”

Lyris salutes and says, “As you command War Leader.”

“War Leader the ship is sending its bona fides. The vessel is named Siri. It is registered to the House of Jadenspear.”

~Jaden’s ship~ “What is their destination and purpose?”

“Supply ship arriving at the bases airfield.”

“Give them the go ahead. Let’s keep this as normal as possible send out maintenance crews and dockworkers. Tell Lyris to stay hidden and report if they make any strange movements.”

“This is Siri requesting permission to land.”

“Siri you are cleared to land at docking bay 4.”

“Acknowledged bay 4.”

Earth - Family Room

Isabel waits impatiently for Max to arrive. “Is Liz bringing my son home?”

“No”

“Max you promised! He is still a child you can’t let her do this. She sent Aeden away for years and I refuse to have that happen with Amergin.”

“From what I’ve been told Aeden came up with the idea himself.”

Ignoring his comment Isabel continues, “She at least had the courtesy to talk to Michael and Maria. She didn’t consult Alex or I. The rest of them are just ‘yes’ men and agree to whatever she says. Max you are the King, I am a Princess, and we have no say in what goes on in our own kingdom. When are you going to assert control?” She pauses awaiting a response. Not receiving one she prods further, “Are you happy with the current situation?”

Sighing Max replies, “No I’m not but I gave up that right.”

“You didn’t another Max did. You are here now older and wiser why can’t you take the throne back? Khivar usurped our throne and now Liz has. The people are expecting you and I to come back and rule not Liz. Haven’t you given any thought to this? Of what you might do for your people if you were free”

A strange gleam enters his eyes. “Oh Isabel if you only knew but what can I do?”

“The invasion starts in a few weeks we need to get you up to speed on our kingdom and the major players. Plus there are some people who would like to meet you.”

‘What makes you think I can be a better king than Liz?”

“Max no one was sure you would come out of this alive. Liz has been ruling in trust for you and Rian. She has done a great job with our little colony but you are back now. Max we need to concentrate on the future. You are the only one experienced at planetary rule. Our people are counting on us to provide them with a better future. Max it is our duty to do what is best for our people. How can Liz stand in the way? Stand in the way of what is yours by right, by blood.”

“Am I just supposed to ask Liz to resign?”

“Eventually, yes. Liz will always be queen but it is time for her to fulfill her rightful role as Queen Consort.”

“Who is going to direct the war?”

“You are no warrior but Michael, Rian, and Riona are. They are running the war for Liz they can do it for you too.”

“Isabel we still have a major problem the Granolith has rejected me.”

“Max what do we really need the Granolith for? The Heir has already been confirmed. I don’t ever remember you or father ever using it to rule.”

A look of something akin to hope alights his face. “True…Isabel do you truly think that I should do this? That I can be the king people need me to be? That I can make Liz proud of me?”

“Yes I do. Come on its time to educate you on the state of our realm.”

Unbeknownst to them Rigan has been outside listening.

Chapter 29
6 December 2019

Rigan goes to the Granolith Chamber in despair. Knowing the reason behind it the Granolith summons the senior councilors. Minutes later Michael, Serena, Alaric, and Rian arrive.

Seeing his brother’s condition Rian rushes to him. “What’s wrong?”

“I have to show all of you something. I need everyone to hold hands.” Rigan proceeds to show them flashes of Isabel’s rant his conversion with Max, and lastly the damning conversation between Isabel and Max.

“Oh Father!”

“That Fool!”

Serena asks, “Doesn’t he realize Isabel is playing him?”

Michael asks. “Does Liz know?”

“No! I haven’t shown Mom she will be devastated. Mom finally has the love of her life back and now I’m supposed to tell her he’s plotting to over throw her?”

Michael places his hand on Rigan’s shoulder. “The clarity Max reached from the Judgment has obviously worn off. Rigan your father has always ignored what is true for his own truth and Liz always gets hurt in the process. I refuse to let him do any more damage. Do you know who they went to talk to?”

“Lady Edana and Lords Vivek and Galen.”

Impressed Serena says, “Isabel’s aiming high those were her father’s top advisors and they have never approved of Liz especially her human heritage.”

Michael retorts, “Nice spin on the fact that they are racists.”

Rigan asks, “What are we going to do about Alex?”

Serena says, “I doubt Alex knows anything he is very loyal to Liz. Plus he will be at the command center on Altir Isabel won’t be able to reach him.”

Michael orders, “Serena I want you to scan him anyway. I’m not taking any chances. I want the children moved to the Beta site ASAP.”

Rian asks, “Who are we going to put in charge of the Beta site?”

“Ava and Maria”

Rian asks, “What about Isabel?”

Michael stops pacing and says, “We will leave Isabel in charge here as planned but we move everything of importance or power to Altir or the Beta site. She will be in charge of the physical site and nothing else.“

“What do we tell Isabel?”

“Nothing. The children are not staying under her control. She thinks the children will be going to the Alpha site and no one is to disabuse her of that notion.”

“And Father?”

Michael answers, “He stays here. He can’t go to Altir because of Khivar’s trap.”

Michael pauses looking at each of them in turn. “We need to present a united front to Liz. Is everyone in agreement on the plans I’ve laid out?”

They all nod their assent. “Is there anything else we need to cover before we bring this to her?”

Rian gives a half grin and asks, “Who gets to explain this to Riona?”

Antar

“Sire the High Priest desires a word with you.”

“Send him in.”

“Sire I think I may have figured out why the Granolith will not recognize Zannor.”

“This should be entertaining.”

“Well…umm…King Zan and Princess Ava were kill…er died before they actually took their vows so they were never actually married. And on Earth Max and Tess never married so Zannor is actually a bastard.”

Peals of laughter erupt from Khivar at the priest’s news.

“Sire there have been bastards in the royal family who have inherited. For that to happen the King and the Granolith both have to acknowledge the bastard as heir.”

“According to your theory to cover everything I’d need to one divorce Tess no hardship there. Two have her marry Max to legitimize Zannor and for the fun of it I’ll even give them a wedding night. Three have Max and the Granolith recognize Zannor as heir. And four to clean the mess up then I’ll kill both Max and Tess. So Priest does that cover everything?”

“Umm…well…yes that would certainly take care of the contingencies.”

“The things I have to do to make a stupid hunk of rock glow! Chamberlain!”

“Yes sire?”

“Make arrangements for a trip to Earth the High Priest, Tess and her guards will be joining me.”

“At once sire”

“Wait a moment, Priest is there anything you will require for the divorce to take place?”

“Only your signature on the Bill of Divorce.”

“How lovely something about this is actually simple.”

“By your leave sire I will go to my office to write up the Bill of Divorce.”

“Yes, yes go on.”

Chapter 30
6 December 2019

Granolith Chamber

At Rian’s request the Granolith summons Liz. She enters not even surprised by the others presence. “Judging by the looks on your faces this meeting has to do with Max.”

Rigan is shocked into asking, “How did you know?”

Liz shares a telling glance with Michael. “About two hours ago he severed our connection so tell me what has he done?”

Rigan walks up to his mother gently taking her hands in his. Unable to think of something comforting to say he just sends her flashes of the conversations. At the end, Liz lets go and just shakes her head. “I should’ve known better the past 20 years Max has been in an emotional and mental void. He is still the same boy who made the decision to give up the Granolith and himself to Khivar. It doesn’t matter what the reality of the situation is Max can believe in something so utterly you believe his truth too.”

“Mom you’re not excusing his actions are you?”

“No Max has had 20 years of boyish fantasies of how he could make things right and Isabel knows it. She is so angry with me she is playing on his delusions. Max will bear watching but Isabel is the true danger. I’ve never really had to worry about her because she wants the perks without the responsibility. Having Max in power would suit her perfectly. He would let her play at being the benevolent princess.”

“Doesn’t Isabel know it is impossible for Max to be king?”

“No, Isabel hasn’t had to face judgment by the Granolith in either life. In her eyes Khivar has ruled without the Granolith and Max has faced judgment. She can use it to her advantage with the people who know even less about it. Rigan showed me what you discussed and I have a few changes to make. Rian you and Mellan will be married today. I will summon her and Maria in a few minutes. Your wedding night will be spent on Altir so that no one else will be aware that you have bonded.”

Rian asks, “Mom why?”

“Because Khivar’s daughter Thalia is more important than any of you know. Siban’s vision touched upon the Granolith’s ancient title Keeper of the Balance. On Khivar’s homeworld there is a prophecy concerning the Royal House of Anholt. Once all of the royal bloodlines were reunited, the Granolith could be reclaimed from Antar. Khivar’s family has been determinedly trying to fulfill the prophecy for generations. On the plus side for him, he had several plans in place to ensure he would gain control of the Granolith. The first was murdering the original Royal Four and taking the throne for himself. About 50 years later the last of the royal lines were joined when Khivar married Lisele of Anholt. Unfortunately for him the only child to survive infancy was Thalia who according to their laws could not inherit being female.”

Immediately understanding the implications Rian asks, “Mother please send for Mellan now.”

Smiling Liz reassures him, “Already done but I need to cover a few more things before they arrive. I am cutting your honeymoon short tomorrow Mellan will join the others at the Beta site. She will be in charge seconded by Maria and Ava. Declan and Desmond will serve, as her personal guards one will be with her at all times. Only those five will know the truth of where they are everyone else will be told they are at the Alpha site. Isabel is going to want to have contact with her daughters and I won’t deny her.”

Altir

“War Leader the Captain of the Siri a Jaden Jadenspear is requesting an audience with the base commander.”

Riona asks, “Has Lyris reported in?”

Osric replies, “Yes she gives the all clear.”

“What is his reason to meet the commander?”

“To give over the manifest.”

“Escort him here. Osric you get to be base commander. Nakia I need you to do your thing. We need to know his true purpose and if he is one of Khivar’s spies.” Riona pauses, “Remember his life is in your hands.”

Nakia nods, “As you will it War Leader.”

A few minutes later a guard enters escorting Jaden. “Sir Captain Jadenspear is here.”

A beautiful woman approaches him first smiling coyly and touching his hands. “Hey handsome when you’re done with the commander can I interest you in a drink or something more?” She is hit by surface thoughts as she delves into his mind.

~Oh shit! I thought Riona would be here by now. The Skins are still in charge of the base. Think Jaden! THINK! Bloody hell how am I going to get out of this one?~

“Sorry miss as attractive as the offer is I am spoken for.”

“Well if you change your mind I’m here right now.”

Jaden smiles and moves past Nakia to the base commander. “Sir here is my manifest.”

Osric keeps him talking while Nakia reports to Riona. “You put your bond mates life in my hands!”

Troubled Riona asks, “Nakia is he a traitor?”

“No he is utterly loyal to you, the Queen, and your brother. Jaden is on the run from his sister. He believes his crew is loyal to him but I believe we need to check them out.”

“Agreed if any are traitors find out all you can then have them terminated. Have Osric send Jaden to my quarters I will meet him there.”

“As ordered War Leader.” Nakia salutes and walks out.

A few minutes later Jaden is ushered into Riona’s quarters. “Hello love.”
Jaden’s head whips around green eyes widened in disbelief.

Riona throws herself into his arms. He’d wondered for so long what it would feel like to hold her to feel the warmth of her body against his own. Breathing in her spicy scent he scolds, “Do you have any idea how worried I’ve been? I’ve been trying to dreamwalk you for days. I thought you were hurt and I rushed over here to find you.”

“Jaden, I’m so sorry mom had Rigan block me from you.”

Disbelieving he asks, “Why?”

Riona pulls back looking deep into his eyes, “Because someone in House Jadenspear is a traitor.”

“I know.” Head bent in shame he continues, “It’s Jade she’s fallen under Khivar’s spell. He is promising to make her Queen.”

“Bloody hell!”

Osric opens the door apologetic, “I’m sorry War Leader but the Queen is coming for you.”

Jaden pulls her back into his arms. “Wait I want to settle something
between us first. Riona marry me?”

“Yes! Yes! Yes!” She murmurs in between kisses. “But you still have to ask mom I can’t marry without her permission.”

“Let’s go get it.”

**Cast List on bottom of pg 4**


Chapter 31
6 December 2019

Antar

The Chamberlain walks in, “Sire I haven’t been able to reach anyone on Earth.”

“None of the bases are responding?”

“Not a one. I have sent agents to Copper Summit and the Sahara to check out the situation.”

“When will they check in?”

“Copper Summit within the hour…the Sahara will be in a few hours since it’s in the middle on nowhere.”

“What of the other bases?”

“I haven’t sent anyone yet.”

“Do it NOW!”

“Yes, Sire.”

A few hours later the Chamberlain enters in fearfully, “Sire the agents are all reporting the same results…piles of dust.”

Agitated Khivar begins pacing. “How is this possible? They can’t have all disappeared! And where the hell is Max? Did he just walk out of there into the freaking Sahara Desert? I think not he’d be dead and it would save me the trouble of finding his sorry royal ass! There’s no way he turned the guards against me they all hate him. He couldn’t have mind warped them he’s to weak in the mental area. If he did escape who engineered it? Who would profit from him showing up now?”

Khivar pauses his mind turning over the information. “DAMN that wife of mine! She and her beloved son are behind this. Last time she must of struck a deal with Max his freedom in exchange for Zannor being acknowledged! That BITCH! She is going to pay!”

Grinning evilly he orders, “I want Zannor brought to the Interrogation Room. I want Malik to do the ‘questioning’ and have my dear, dear wife brought to the viewing room. I will have answers!”

Half and hour later Tess walks in to find her son strung up in chains. In anguish she cries, “Zannor!”

Khivar walks up behind her, “A maternal moment how touching.”

Furious Tess turns toward him asking, “Why? Why are you doing this when there are easier ways?”

Khivar smirks, “Because I can. Malik begin.” And the lash falls…

Granolith Chamber

Mellan, Maria, Ava, and Kyle arrive mystified at the summons. Liz introduces them to Riona and her betrothed Jaden and enlightens them on the new developments. Unwilling to let Maria or Kyle comment on Max’s behavior Liz drops another bombshell. “I have some new intel Khivar formally charged Tess with treason this morning.”

Liz pauses letting pandemonium reign. “Enough my friends! There is more. Khivar is about to discover that Max and his Earth army have disappeared.”

Michael sobers immediately, “We have to move the invasion timetable up.”

Liz replies, “Done. I received the latest reports and all of the Resistance forces are in place and ready for your orders Warlord. Before you get started I have more news. I am declaring tomorrow.”

“What? I thought we were going to let Khivar squirm before you announced.”

“I have to declare for myself and Rian before Isabel and Max make any mischief.”

“How?”

“The holocams are going to be activated on each world to do a simultaneous broadcast. Rian and I will stand before the Granolith basking in its glow of approval with the full regalia of the crown.”

Jaden reverently asks, “You have the Crown of Chastil and the Scepter of Chaismir”

Liz walks over to the Granolith and retrieves the holy relics, “Yes Jaden I do.”

Concerned Michael asks, “And you really think we can keep all of this craziness from Max and Isabel?”

“Yes for I have a plan. Rian, Mellan, Riona, and Jaden will be married here in a few minutes. Then they are all going to Altir for their wedding nights. The command center on Altir has been set up so Michael and Kyle will also be going to finish coordinating the troops. I will be transporting Maria, Ava, and the kids to the Beta site after the weddings. I will take my leave of Max and Isabel and join the others on Altir where I will get some much needed rest.”

Michael smirks, “I just love that tidy mind of yours!”

Chapter 32
7 December 2019

Earth

Max and Isabel are closeted with Lady Edana and Lords Vivek and Galen. Max muses, “So much has changed in the last 75 years. Loyalties have shifted and many Houses that supported my family for millennia are no more. Khivar has created a new nobility and they owe him everything. Liz has managed to win the support of the loyalists and forged alliances with two ruling princes. You expect me to do better?”

Lady Edana answers, “No we expect you to rule once the war is won. Liz has done an excellent job but she is a novice at what needs to be done next. Between Khivar and the upcoming war so much is going to have to be rebuilt and restructured. We are going to need an experienced planetary ruler and you have access to Zan’s memories."

Lord Vivek adds, “Max the people are going to need a leader to rally behind. The people have been hoping and praying for your return. You are the king they know and want.”

Max replies, “Liz and her council are the government in charge of the resistance. Michael and my children are running the war. How am I to convince them much less Liz to step down?”

Isabel ventures, “You are the king you could order it.”

“Michael would blast me if I tried.”

Lord Galen says, “Max you need to talk to your wife and convince her that it is time for you to step up and take your rightful place.”

Lord Vivek counters, “It is really up to you but strategically we can’t announce until the war starts anyway.”

Max questions, “So I have two weeks to convince Liz and prepare to declare myself?”

“Yes”

Max asks, “I know Michael wants Khivar’s head on a pike but what of Tess and Zannor?”

Lady Edana answers, “Today I received new information regarding Tess. Khivar has charged her with high treason. She has been plotting to overthrow Khivar and put Zannor on the throne.”

Lord Vivek muses, “Khivar won’t harm Zannor while he believes he is your heir. Once the war starts and he finds out about Rian, it is anyone’s guess as to what will happen. The question is do you want to save him?”

“Of course I do! I know that he has been raised by Tess and Khivar but he is still my son.”

Lady Edana asks, “How much do you truly know of Zannor?”

“Nothing really”

“Max he is a monster. He enjoys torture, mind games, rape, and the list goes on. He is a product of his environment.”

Firmly Max states, “He is my son.”


Altir

Michael, Kyle, Alaric, Serena, Rian, Riona, and Rigan are gathered in the command center trying to absorb the events of the last few hours. Michael is the first to pull himself together and begins; “I know we have discussed some of this endlessly but now is the time to decide once and for all. Khivar?”

As one they answer, “death.”

“Tess?”

As one they answer, “death.”

Michael continues down the list, “Zannor is your half brother it is up to the three of you to decide his fate.”

Rian, Riona, and Rigan communicate silently among themselves before Rian answers, “death.”

Michael nods and continues, “Isabel?”

Rian asks, “What does mom say?”

Michael answers, “So far all Isabel has done is talk.”

Rigan asks, “What are we going to do if she does cross the line?”

Serena answers, “Liz has all of the conspirators trapped on Earth where we can control the information they receive and monitor outgoing communiqués. She wants to know who else is involved and how widespread the plot is.”

Riona replies, “Very smart on mom’s part.”

Michael returns to the list once more, “and your father?”

Riona’s eyes flash in anger, “He is not our father.” Noticing the confused looks on Michael and Kyle’s faces she explains. “Has mom ever shown you anything of the man that conceived us?”

“Bits and pieces.”

Rigan steps in before Riona begins a rant. “Alaric and Serena came back with our father they know the type of man that he was. The Max that is with us now is a washed out version of our father.”

Confused Michael replies, “He is the same man.”

Rian answers, “No timelines diverged and changed the make up of the man, the soul of the man. When he arrived, he showed us who he was and we decided to accept him because of mother. We felt she deserved happiness at last and if he was the man then so be it. Let us show you our father and then you tell us what you think.”

Chapter 33A
7 December 2019

Liz’s private quarters

Liz sits in her sanctuary musing on the day’s events and for the first time the crystalline beauty fails to soothe. The trickling water grates her already taunt nerves for his presence is now imprinted on everything. There is no escaping him even now she can feel him coming.

His voice softly asks, “How are you?”

“Exhausted but if you hadn’t severed our connection you would know that.”

“I’m sorry but I have so many things I need to work out.”

“I could help ease the burden.”

“Thanks but no…sometimes one must walk alone.”

“Bonded mates are meant to walk the path together for we are one.”

“Liz, I’m trying to figure out my future.”

“I thought you already had.”

“I want to be more than just your husband.”

“Max you can be anything you want.”

“Can I? You, the Granolith, and other versions of me have decided so many things. What things have I decided for myself? Don’t my dreams count? My wishes? I think I deserve the chance to make decisions for myself to decide what I truly want. Not be forced into a role by you, the Granolith, or other me’s.”

“So what passed between us means nothing? You do not want me?”

“Of course I want you but…”

“You want me on your terms.”

“Well…I came back and everything was already planned out. I went with the flow. I was so excited to see everyone alive and well. I didn’t stop to think and now I find myself in a position I’m not sure I like.”

Bewildered, exasperated Liz asks, “What is it you don’t like? We are married, we have a family, your parents accepted you, Antar is soon to be freed, and Khivar overthrown. What is there not to like about your life? What more do you need?”

Annoyance creeps into his tone, “That’s just it Liz you have done everything what do you need me for?”

“Max if you haven’t realized who you are to me and what I need you for then we are in serious trouble.”

He states firmly, “Liz I need to find my own way.”

“Max, I just want to love you. Why can’t that be enough?”

His voice hardens, “Liz stop! We aren’t two teenagers in love anymore. There is so much at stake. I need to be sure of the path I’m on. That I am doing what is best for me.”

She swallows the despair choking her. “What am I supposed to do?”

Voice cold and flat he states, “Wait.”

Bitterness tingeing her voice she says, “Max I’ve done everything you’ve ever asked of me. I’ve already waited 20 years for you. Why am I always being punished for loving you? When do I get what I want?”

“Liz,” he says her name in a warning tone.

“No Max! You just don’t seem to get it. You are killing me. We are bonded mates a physical and spiritual part of each other for the rest of our lives and now you say you were carried away by the moment! You finally get what you’ve always wanted and it’s not enough. I’m not enough. I wonder if anything will ever be.” Defeated she sighs, “Leave.”

“No…”

Chapter 33B

"There are some things we need to discuss."

Tired of the emotional turmoil Liz dully asks, "what?"

"Firstly, Zannor is not to be harmed.”

“Are you insane?”

“He is my son.”

“What of ours? I’m not letting Zannor live to target my children.”

Max cries, “Am I supposed to choose between them?

“When one is a murdering rapist the obvious answer is yes!”

“Liz he was raised by Tess and Khivar.”

“You naïve fool you actually believe your love can save him. Max he doesn’t give a damn about you and never has. All he wants is the throne and he will kill anyone in his way beginning with you.”

Max shouts, “ You don’t know that!”

“Don’t I?” Liz closes her eyes for a moment in concentration a thick file appears in her hands. “In this file are weekly reports, audio and video tapes, signed testimony, paternity tests, and still pictures of your son and those involved. All of this information comes from nurses, tutors, friends, enemies, victims and their families. Read the chronicle of his life. He started as a small child torturing animals he then began killing them. As he got older, he graduated to humans. He enjoys dominance he gets off on having control over others. His preferred methods are rape for women and the lash for men.”

Liz takes out a stack of photographs. “Look Max you can see the excitement the enjoyment on his face.” As she speaks, she flips through the photographs for him to see. “Look Max at his victims afterwards. This girl was twelve Zannor left her so badly damaged she will never have children.”

Max is sick with horror unable to comprehend that this could be his child. “Why couldn’t the healers fix her?”

“Max he has your ability to heal. He likes to play with people’s insides to see how things work and how to make them stop working. He killed a part of her that can never be recovered. And you want me to show mercy to this monster? What mercy did he give his victims? To their families?”

“Liz I didn’t know…”

Liz cuts him off. “When are you going to learn that all of this was done for a reason? The Granolith lived the future with ‘Zannor the Bloody’ as a ruler. His moniker should give you a clue as to how well the people fared at his hands. Max you have to realize that Zannor was never an innocent he was born evil.”

“Zannor is the only child that is truly mine. I remember sleeping with Tess. I remember the night Zannor was conceived. I remember connecting with him and he was an innocent!”

“Well I wish you much joy in getting to know your innocent son.” She teleports him and the file to his quarters.

Liz’s misery is so acute it causes her physical pain. “I can’t take anymore of this,” and she blinks out of existence.

End of Ch 33

Max storms out of his quarters running into Isabel. “Max what’s wrong?”

“Liz. She insists I choose her children over my own son! I can’t let that happen I have to save Zannor. I haven’t been there for him his entire life but I can save him from death.”

“I was coming to get you Lady Edana and the lords are ready to see us again.”

“Let’s not keep them or our kingdom waiting any longer Iz.”


Chapter 34
8 December 2019

On the five worlds of the Antarian system the emergency broadcast system begins to wail. An image of a beautiful dark haired woman wearing the Crown of Chastil, imperial purple velvet robes trimmed with ermine fills the holcams. “People of Antar I am Queen Elizabeth wife of King Zan’s hybrid Max and mother to the true heir Rian. Joining me are Isabel hybrid clone of Princess Vilondra, Michael hybrid clone of the War Lord Rath, the High Priest Alaric, Lady Serena of House Fiamma, and Ruling Princes Larek and Cero. People of Antar, the High Priest Alaric is now going to perform the Naming Ceremony to prove the truth of our claims.”

Rian kneels in front of his Queen, Alaric, and the Granolith. Alaric begins chanting in High Antarian and when he is finished Rian places his hands upon the Granolith. It begins to emit a golden glow enveloping Rian within it. He reaches into the Granolith and pulls out the Scepter of Chaismir the heir’s symbol of rulership.

Eyes’ flashing pure gold Rian then stands up and bows to his Queen. He kneels in front of her arms outstretched cradling the scepter in his palms. Liz places her hands over the scepter and his open palms.

“I, Rian, Crown Prince of Antar, do become your liegeman of life and limb and of earthly worship and faith and truth. I will bear unto you to live and die against all manner of beings.”

Liz states, “Rian you have been chosen as heir by the Granolith to be confirmed you must take the Heir’s Oath. It is a contract between you, your sovereign, and the subjects of this realm. Rian this oath must be freely given are you willing?”

Rian answers, “Yes.”

“Rian wilt thou keep and by your oath confirm to the people of Antar the laws and customs granted to them by ancient monarchs of Antar, namely the laws, customs, and franchises granted to the people by the glorious king ‘Rigan the Just’ to your power?”

Rian answers, “I shall keep them.”

“Rian wilt thou to your power cause law and justice in mercy to be executed in all your judgments?”

Rian answers, “I shall do.”

“Rian, we charge you to hold and fulfill and defend rightful laws and customs which the commons of our realm shall choose, to strengthen and maintain them after all your power?”

Rian answers, “I shall do.” Liz bids him to rise.

High Priest Alaric proclaims, “People of Antar the new heir has been confirmed! All hail Rian Crown Prince of the Blood, undoubted Heir to the throne of Antar!”

Liz takes over after the proclamation. “People of Antar the battle for Restoration has already begun Khivar’s bases on Earth and Altir have been destroyed. We are now bringing the fight to Khivar on Antar.” The holocam shows one last flickering image of the assembled group before shutting off.