Roswell Fanatics

Part 31

“How long do you think we have before the next attack?”

Alex rolled his eyes at Kyle. “I told you to stop asking that question. It’s pointless and really starting to annoy everyone.”

“Yeah well, last time we were attacked you got one power blast to the chest and were out cold. I had to withstand pain for far too long. I’m fragile here. I just want to know so I can be prepared.”

Alex grinned, “Aw Kyle, the big bad football player is scared of a little green alien.”

Kyle couldn’t help but laugh, “That’s great Whitman. Hilarious really. Too bad there is nothing little or green about them.”

“He does have a point.”

“Deluca you betray me one of you’re oldest and dearest friends.” Alex brought his hand to his chest in mock hurt.

Maria rolls her eyes at him and sticks out her tongue before looping her arm with Liz’s.

“Will you three cut it out? Your childish bickering is obnoxious and we haven’t even made it to the movie theater yet.”

Maria turns her glare onto Alex and Kyle, “Yeah, shush.”

Alex smiles, but Kyle suddenly looks outraged that he’s being shushed.

“And why do we have to shush.”

“Ah cause Liz said so and Liz is in charge.”

Maria keeps walking but gets halted when Liz stops moving. Maria gives Liz a questioning look only to see Liz looking at her in confusion.

“What’s wrong chica?”

“In charge?”

Maria nods with confidence now that she sees Liz’s problem, “Sure, you’re in love with Max, he’s the King so that makes you…”

Both Alex and Kyle yell out, “Queen.” Then shut their mouths embarrassed by the very Maria-like outburst.

Liz is shaking her head no, “Ah yeah, I don’t think it works that way.”

“Why not?”

“Yeah why not?”

Alex follows Kyle and Maria’s questions, “Look Liz, we’re not gonna treat you any differently now that you’re Queen or whatever. We were just kidding a second ago. No big deal.”

Liz looks doubtful but seeing their big smiles nods her head hesitantly and continues on, “Right no big deal.”

“So what movie are we seeing?”

“No chick flicks.”

“But Kyle!”

He shakes his head adamantly. But then Maria is pouting at him and Liz has turned her brown doe eyes at him. He turns to Alex for support by Alex just shrugs his shoulders and pulls out money for his ticket.

“Whitman, you are so whipped.”

Alex nods knowingly. “Yes. Kyle yes I am, by a beautiful alien princess. When it comes to these two though, I just know better then to disagree. Trust me man, it won’t be pretty.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“I don’t understand why we couldn’t go with them?” Michael flips the channel in search of some hockey game as Isabel joins him on the couch and takes the controller out of his hand. Max speaks up,

“They do get all offended when we don’t include them in things.”

Michael huffs.

“We chose not to include them in highly dangerous situations. We do that to protect their lives. They just don’t want us to go with them to the movies.”

Ava rolled her eyes, “You do realize they are probably going to see a chick flick right Michael?”

Isabel speaks up, “But Kyle and Alex went with them.”

Zan laughs, “Your point?”

Suddenly Michael is laughing and not finding it at all horrible that he wasn’t invited to this 'humans' only outing.

“Where’s Serena?”

Ava shrugged, “I dunno. I think she’s hanging out with Amy. They’re always working late after work, talking about all the stuff Future Isabel told them.”

Intrigued Max walks over to the kitchen counter, “How do you know that?”

Zan answers for Ava, “Serena’s all tense and stuff when she gets back from it. More worried then usual. I think those two spend too much time over thinking everything Future Iz told em.”

Isabel rolled her eyes, “What’s there to over think? It’s only gee…the END OF THE WORLD!”

Zan and Michael who are both sitting on the couch next to Isabel flinch. Max frowns sympathetically. Michael gets up and heads towards Max and Ava in the kitchen, “Yeah, it’s the end of the world, but they can’t spend every minute of the day thinking about it. They’ll exhaust themselves over it. We just have to deal with the situations as they come at us and try to learn form the past mistakes Future Izzy told them about.”

“And if we don’t?” Isabel asks in a haughty manner she usually reserves for the uber-popular girls at school.

“Then we die.” Zan states matter-of-factly as Isabel pales. He points at her face as if she’s proved a point. “And that is why we shouldn’t spend every hour thinking about it. The humans have the right idea; we should go out and have some fun.”

Before he even finishes his sentence Ava has grabbed her jacket and Michael has flipped off the TV. Max is opening the door only to find an unfamiliar figure standing in the door way. He jumps in surprise, but quickly regains his composure.

“Can I help you?”

The man peers through his glasses and easily dismisses Max looking over his shoulder to the others within.

Max is surprised that this man isn’t shocked by the sight of Zan. Most people have given some reaction to how identical they are in looks.

“Where’s Serena?”

Suddenly Max can feel Michael and Zan right at his back. Isabel and Ava are there too if only a little further behind them.

“Who are you?” Max questions his fingers twitching at his side.

He watches as the man rolls his eyes and rushes into the apartment shoving past them all. Michael and Zan have raised their arms and Ava has reached for the phone in case this man is a threat of the human variety.

“Stand down Royals. I’d have you all flatten to the wall before you could blink.” Shock has Michael dropping his arm and Ava dropping the phone, but Zan and now Max have their arms raised more alert then before.

“Tell me who you are?”

“Kal Langley. Hollywood producer.” Kal glares at Max’s raised eyebrow before sighing and continuing, “First Guardian to the Royals.”

Isabel finally finds her voice, “You’re our protector?”

Michael, Zan and Kal all let out a short bark of laughter knowing Kal is anything but that.

“Hardly, where’s Serena.”

Max takes lead again and answers for the group, “She’s out. So you’re the other shape-shifter?”

Kal nods dismissively, “Very good Sherlock. And I’ve deduced that she isn’t here. We have a problem. Where is she?”

Max crosses his arms over his chest, “What kind of problem?”

Kal rubs at his head resigned to the fact he’ll get nothing accomplished if he doesn’t answer the questions.

“The Guardian’s been compromised.”

The others paled unsure what to say, Michael manages to question instantly, “Amy?”

Kal nodded regretfully.

Max shakes away the shock and questioned, “What do you mean by compromised?”

Kal reached into his pocket and pulled out a cigar, lighting it without caring about the looks the teens were giving him.

He opened his mouth to explain when Isabel gasped and covered her mouth.

Kal turned a concerned eye to her, “What?”

“Serena’s with Amy right now.”

Kal nodded his head, “And they’re probably talking all about Future Isabel?”

At the looks from the teens Kal doesn’t need any further response before he pulls out a cell phone and punches in a few numbers.

He manages to inhale from the cigar once and blow out smoke rings before someone on the other end picks up.

“Go in, make sure neither is harmed. I don’t care what it costs just do it. NOW.”

He snaps his phone shut and turns to the surprised faces of those he swore over a lifetime ago to die for. “As much as I despise all of you, I’m rather fond of Amy and Serena. It would be a shame for any harm to come to them.”

He turns to leave, but Max stops him, emphasizing the question he asked a moment ago, “What do you mean by compromised?”

“And what can we do to help?”

Kal looks at Michael almost impressed before turning back to Max and addressing his question.

“Amy’s been exposed to a host. I believe you know him as Brody Davis.” Kal waits as some of them vaguely nod, “My contacts have informed me that Amy has come into recent contact with him and after the encounter her brain pattern was altered.”

“Contacts?” Michael questions instantly distrustful.

“Altered?” Isabel puts forth her own question.

“I thought Larek was on our side.” Zan adds casting a brief glance to Ava who also looks puzzled.

Max raises a hand to silence them all and turns back to Kal motioning for him to continue. Kal pauses for a moment to take the action in, impressed even further as they all fall silent and turn their full attention onto him at Max’s silent command. He shakes it off and takes on his perfected air of indifference and continues with his explanation.

“Larek was at a council meeting. Unfortunately for us while he was there, in close proximity to Khivar, Amy DeLuca was at the Crashdown dropping off pies and just so happen to loiter next to Mr. Davis who was enjoying a Galaxy Sub.”

Kal paused again and noticed that a few of the teens rolled their eyes at this bit of information.

“Khivar having impeccable mental capabilities was able to recognize the importance of Amy through the dormant link Larek holds to Mr. Davis. Khivar was able to branch his own link on Amy. It won’t be long before he’ll be able to funnel information from Amy’s mind to his own information such as…”

“Future Isabel.” Max finished for him as the severity of the situation seemed to hit everyone at once. “So what do we do?”

Kal shook the question off, “You do nothing, we can’t risk Khivar forming the same type of link with one of you and having access to your powers or worse the Granilith.” He gave a significant look towards Michael. “That means you Commander. I don’t care if she is the mother of your girlfriend under no circumstances are you to go anywhere near her. Understand?”

Michael opened his mouth to protest, but Max beat him to it, “Michael. Please.”

He crossed his arms over his chest and nodded silently. Isabel shot him a concerned look before turning her attention back to the mysterious shape-shifter. “So if we can’t do anything to help Amy, what is it exactly that you are going to do?”

“I sent my informants in to remove Serena from Amy’s presences. Once Amy’s isolated I will need you to remove the link from Amy’s mind. I don’t have anyone with me that has strong enough mental powers.”

He paused as Isabel’s mouth dropped open and Zan jumped forward, “Wait there’s more aliens here, like good aliens.”

Kal rolled his eyes. “Of course there are.”

“And they work for you?”

Kal nodded dismissively, “Most of them. Anyway, when they sent down the second ship most of the guards where sent with physical powers not mental ones that’s why you,” pausing to point at Isabel he continued, “will have to cut the link. Better for us to do it now because it will only grow stronger the longer we wait.”

Isabel nodded and was already moving towards the door pausing at Max’s concerned voice, “You just said none of us were to have contact with Amy.”

Kal nodded, “Yeah well we have no choice, but to let Isabel risk this.”

Ava was the first one to instantly protest, “No way duke. You can’t let her do that by herself! I’ll help.”

“You don’t understand shrimps. The more of you that are near Amy in an effort to help her, the more chances Khivar has to form a link. If it’s only Isabel and she’s working on the link she’ll be able to sense if Khivar is trying to start a new one and she’ll stop him.”

“And if I can’t.”

Kal rolled his eyes like the very idea Isabel couldn’t do anything she set her mind to was preposterous, which it was. “Please, the Vilandra I knew would never allow anyone something she didn’t want.”

Isabel opened her mouth to speak, but Max beat her too it, “That’s the problem Kal, she’s not the Vilandra you knew. None of us are our past selves.”

“Trust me kid, I know. That much has been made plenty clear these past ten years since you hatched. But where it counts, she’s just as much Vilandra as you are Zan, she’s Ava, and he is Rath. All of you are your former selves, more then you’d like to think. Don’t worry” he added when he saw the brief fear and confusion cross some of their features, “it’s a good thing.”

At the beeping of his phone Kal held up a hand and glanced at the screen. “Come on Isabel, my cars out front.”

Isabel grabbed her own coat and was at the door ahead of Kal when he paused to glance back to the others now standing around at a loss of what to do,

“By the way, you really shouldn’t let your human friends wander around by themselves when there’s another shape-shifter in town who can be anyone he wants to be and has his own personal agenda to see you all dead. That’s just my opinion anyway.”

Kal looked them all over one last time before he added as an after thought, “You know, keep heading in the direction you are and one day I may not despise you all so much. After Isabel checks out Serena I’ll have her dropped off here.”

Max nodded his head but Kal had already shut the door.

The apartment was filled with an eerie silence at their departure. The tension only increased as the stillness continued. Finally Ava spoke,

“So…movies anyone?”

Michael, Zan, and Max exchanged brief looks then looked back at Ava nodded their heads and all exclaimed simultaneously, “Movies.”

At the slam of the apartment door with their departure the stillness from a moment before once again filled the now vacant room.

TBC…
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Part 32

Isabel slid out of the limo and straighten out her jacket before looking up to the tall warehouse. They were over an hour outside of town and the sun was about to duck under the horizon. Isabel turned away from the bright orange sky and looked to the middle-aged man donning on a pair of Armani sunglasses.

“Why do you despise us?”

Isabel watched as he walked to the door of the building and put his hand on the lock. She watched as it glowed for an instant before he pushed the door open holding it for her, seeming to ignore her question all together.

She walked in hesitantly still waiting for an answer. Kal looked at her weighing some unforeseen consequence in his head before speaking.

“I hate your past selves for taking me away from my home. For making me come to this wondrous planet, but knowing I can never enjoy any of the pleasures it has to offer. And I hate your human selves for being human.” The hate laced in each word was audible.

Isabel looked hurt for a moment before indignation covered her features, “None, of that is our fault though,” she adamantly defended. “The people we are didn’t make you leave Antar and it’s hardly our fault that we get to be partially human and you don’t.”

Kal nodded in acceptance although the dislike was still heavy in his tone, “Yeah I know, that’s why I probably won’t hate the bunch of you forever. I’m sure you’ll all grow on me, the more time I’m forced to spend with you. And once that happens, I probably won’t hate you again until you force me to go back.”

“Go back?”

Kal directed her to an elevator and Isabel stepped inside. As the doors slide shut with a clang Kal answered, “Yeah, back with your children.” At her blank look he continued, “The Royal Four.”

Confusion still clouded her milky brown eyes “What are you talking about?”

“Didn’t Serena tell you about the Prophecy?”

Isabel nodded, “Future Isabel told us, we aren’t the Royal Four, but our children will be.”

Kal’s eyes widen as he realized they didn’t know the whole truth of it. He tried to back track and save himself the anger he knew was possible from the blonde that was now glaring at him.

“Right, that’s exactly right. Forget I said anything.” The elevator dinged quietly and Kal rushed off only to be halted by the mental pull in his mind

*Kal.*

He turned slowly and looked into her determined eyes.

“They’ll have to go back. You can’t because of your human DNA is first generation, but your children will be able to, and they will have to go back to Antar to dethrone Khivar and set free the Star System.”

“Future Isabel never said…”

Kal gave a half shrug of indifference, “She was under a lot of pressure, trying to prevent the end of the world and all. Besides they never got that far with the kids they did have so it was kind of a non-issue.”

“So…we can’t go home?”

“This is your home. And technically you could go back to Antar. There is technology there that could readjust your systems, but you’d never have access to it while Khivar is in power. He’d kill you two minutes after you stepped onto the planet.”

“Our children have to go back?”

Kal nodded seeing how much it was upsetting her and tried to end the discussion, “If you don’t want to see the end of the world then yes. One day they will have to go back to finally take care of Khivar, probably once you guys can no longer stall him down here.”

“Stall him?”

“You’ll see what I mean when you’re older.”

“Kal?”

The cold exterior that emanated off Kal when Max first opened the door was apparent once again as he sharply announced, “We don’t have time now Isabel you have to check on Serena and then you have to help Amy.”

Isabel forced away the thousand of questions that were now present because of the wealth of unwanted information she had just gained.

“Right, lead the way.”

Kal shoved open a door that was to their left, Isabel would have never noticed it because it blended so well with the surrounding wall.

She gasped when she saw both Amy and Serena surrounded by three guards each. “Is that necessary?”

“These six have the strongest mental capabilities here on Earth besides you or Ava. It is taking the three of them combined just to make sure Khivar’s hold doesn’t get any stronger.”

He motioned to the guard at Serena’s side and he gently pulled her arm up and led her out of the room. Isabel followed closely to the room next door and sat across from Serena on the open chair.

“Serena?”

Serena’s eyes glanced up hesitantly and she smiled when she saw the identical eyes of Isabel meet hers.

“Hey sis.”

Isabel gave her a soft smile, “Heard you got yourself into some trouble?”

Serena rolled her eyes at Kal who was standing in the doorway, “No, I’m fine. I’m just worried about Amy.”

Kal gave a short laugh, “Yeah, and now because you refused to leave her side we have the two of you to worry about.” Isabel was amazed at how soft and loving his tone became when talking to her sister.

Serena stuck out her tongue and gently took Isabel’s hands in her own, as their eyes met again Serena smiled, “Just do your stuff, make sure it’s only me in here.” She briefly tapped the side of her head, “If not, you’ll have to build a wall and slowly push it outwards until any outside influences are pushed out.”

“What if…”

Serena cut off Isabel’s question reading the doubt and hesitation in her face, “You’ll be fine. Don’t worry. And if anything goes wrong Kal’s here.”

Isabel looked back over her shoulder to the shape-shifter before turning back to Serena, “Gee that makes me feel so much better.”

Serena let out a soft chuckle, “And to think Future Isabel was concerned about my sarcasm, looks like she should of worried for her younger self’sack.”

Isabel rolled her eyes before straightening her back and locking eyes with Serena. The connection didn’t form as quickly as Isabel was used to with Max, but since they were sisters even the years they have spent a part didn’t prevent the connection from bursting forth within a few seconds after their eyes had locked onto each other.

Ignoring the images of growing up with the shape-shifter and the difficult days in New York Isabel found herself floating around in Serena’s essence. Memories floated by and dreams of the future fluttered past Isabel’s mind eye. Focusing, Isabel blocked out all her stray thoughts and concentrated on her sister. It took Isabel less then a minute to realize she was surrounded by nothing. Nothing but Serena and she smiled as she slowly back peddled before opening her eyes.

Serena’s eyes popped open shortly after Isabel's and she managed a strained smile, “It won’t be that easy with Amy. Khivar is definitely in there. You did good with me though, remember to keep your concentration."

Isabel stood up and Kal took her back to the room Amy was sitting in surrounded by the three guards, wondering where the other three had gone off to. Kal pulled forward a chair and settled it right in front of Amy’s distant gaze. Isabel looked between Kal, the three guards, and Amy before setting her resolve and taking her spot in the chair.

The instant Isabel’s eyes locked with the green orbs of Amy she was pulled into a connection. The force was so sudden Isabel gasped for breath. It took her a moment to adjust as the shadowy images rushed by her. Noticing the darkness to the memories Isabel realized it was the foreign presences in Amy’s mind that demanded for such a sudden connection.

Vilandra.

It was like a whispered caress making the hair on the back of her neck stand up as a cold shiver ran down her spine. Her hand began to tremble, but then she clenched it in a fist and heard the strong voice of Serena telling her to concentrate.

Isabel closed her eyes against the shadowy images of Amy’s life and against the darkness that was invading her mind. First she built up a solid brick wall around herself making sure to reinforce it as best she could. When she was positive her own mind was safe she went out searching for Amy; Amy who was yet to be infected by Khivar and his evil.

After what seemed like hours Isabel ran into a bright green door that had light shinning from the gap between the floor and the door. Hesitantly Isabel knocked. She was surprised when she felt herself pushed away by a swell of memories. Memories filled with a sense of protection, loyalty, and laughter. Memories overflowing with love. Isabel realized for a minute after the flood of emotions the presences of Khivar wavered.

Isabel placed her hand on the solid green door and focused on the best memory she had with all of them together. When every detail of the memory was in pristine condition Isabel knocked on the door again holding the memory in place. She stumbled as the solid door beneath her fingers suddenly flickered and she found herself in the small room with Amy.

*Ms. DeLuca.*

*How many times do I have to tell you to call me Amy, Isabel?*

Isabel conceded the point and rushed ahead placing her hand on Amy’s shoulder as she looked up with desperate green eyes.

*I can’t fight him off for much longer.*

Anger like she never felt before suddenly overwhelmed Isabel as her hatred for Khviar exponentially increased due to him reducing the strong independent Amy DeLuca to this state.

*You don’t have to Amy. I’ll take care of that bastard now.*

*But he’s so strong.*

The desperation turned to concern as she shakily stood on her feet with Isabel’s help.

*I’m stronger.*

Amy graced her with a smile that made Isabel think the desperation was all an act for her to gain confidence in her own skills, but the fear still lingered and it only served to entice Isabel further.

*Don’t worry Amy. Just hold my hand and focus on Maria.*

Amy nodded, knowing there was no further need for speaking and that Isabel had to focus.

Once again Isabel built up a steel wall, a barrier that would be impenetrable to even the most lethal forces. This time though Amy was with Isabel, safely behind the wall. Focusing on her powers deep within her core Isabel was able to expand the blockade so it pulverized the small room Amy was hiding behind. She couldn’t see it, but the darkness surrounding them lighten just a bit. And as Amy clutched at Isabel’s hand tightly and Isabel delved deeper within herself for another burst of power the darkness lightened even more.

Vilandra. What are you doing my love?

Isabel smiled when Amy only held her hand tighter. She could picture the sneer on this unseen man’s face. Knowing how evil he was and that he would stop at nothing until he had her. He wouldn’t stop until he had taken her family, and hurt her friends, and controlled her world probably not even after all that would he stop. So Isabel pushed forward finding an inner strengthen it had taken her future self years longer to find.

As it swirled around them Isabel smiled as she heard Khivar’s heckling. When he spoke this time there was no cold shiver of fear that traveled along Isabel’s spine.

It would be unwise to upset me so soon Vilandra. I have a feeling it will be years before we are through with each other.

She refused to dignify that with a response simply unleashing the strength she had found within and blinking when she suddenly found her and Amy sitting in the warehouse. Kal standing over them smiling broadly like a proud father.

“Nice work Isabel.” It was all eh said before the mask covered his features once again.

Isabel continued to blink slowly trying to regain her bearings and was still struggling to do so as Amy gripped her in a tight hug.

“Thank you Isabel. You were amazing.”

Isabel smiled still unfocused to her present surroundings. She vaguely noticed as Kal warmly embraced Amy and Serena charged back into the room. The six guards who had all looked so intimidated before melted as Serena smiled brightly up at them and flirtatiously winked at them. Of course that only lasted until Kal order them around and there was a wave of activity before it was only the four of them again.

“Isabel, are you okay?”

When she didn’t get an answer the smile dropped from Serena’s face, she looked worriedly to Amy and Kal who both turned concerned eyes to Isabel.

“Iz? Izzie what’s wrong.”

Isabel looked up suddenly finding her own eyes staring back at her.

“Serena.”

She nodded briefly and gave Isabel an encouraging smile.

“He’s so…” Isabel trailed off seeing the knowing look in all three of their gazes.

“I didn’t think I could…”

Amy gave her an understanding smile, Kal rolled his eyes but it was softened as he squeezed her shoulder reassuringly before following after the guards. Serena nodded knowing how much all of them doubted their powers even now when they were so much stronger having unlocked their higher powers. She knew it had nothing to do with their abilities, but resided more in the fact that they doubted themselves far too often.

“What if next time…” Isabel never got to finish as Amy cut her off.

“Isabel, don’t be ridiculous. That strength you found within yourself just now,” she paused making sure Isabel knew what she was talking about, “it’s something I see in you everyday. And now you know its there plus you know how to use it. All of you have this strength, but you’re too afraid to go after it, but you have now and by embracing it Khivar does have something to fear even if he acts like he doesn’t.”

Serena added her own thoughts, “You have to stop doing this Isabel, all of you have to stop. You freak out that you won’t be strong enough, that you’re not good enough only to prove yourselves wrong. But you don’t learn from it instead the next time a challenge presents itself you resort back to these frighten children who don’t know anything. And I’m sorry, but that’s just not true, and if you can stop doing that all of you will become even more incredible people then you are now.”

The moment was ruined a few minutes later when Kal yelled up to them, “Stop yakking ladies, I don’t need Diane Evans calling the police for a missing daughter!”

Amy sighed and Serena put a comforting arm around Isabel as they walked towards the elevator. As the doors closed and it started to descend Isabel spoke up, “You’re both right. I better straighten out this behavior because god knows you will need help getting the message across to Max and Michael.”

When the doors to the elevator glided open Kal was meet with three laughing woman and he couldn’t help but smile himself.

TBC…

Part 33

When Serena opened the door to her apartment she found eight sleeping bodies scattered throughout the room. They had called before they left the warehouse to let them all know both Amy and Serena were fine and they were about to head back.

“Great welcoming party.”

Isabel laughed softly and then silently went over to Alex lying down next to him. He lifted his heavy eyelids and smiled at her.

“Hi.”

“Hey” She whispered back tucking her head under his chin and snuggling in closer for warmth and safety.

Alex wrapped his arms around her and made an effort to pull open his eyes, “Hey, Izzie you okay.”

She nodded burying her head deeper into his chest.

“Iz?”

She pulled back, “I’ll be okay. I promise, just don’t,” she paused and the vulnerability that flashed in her golden brown eyes had Alex falling in love with her all over again. “don’t leave me, okay. Cuz I don’t think I can be strong like that without you to come home to and wrap my arms around.”

Alex smiled and leaned his head down kissing her trembling lips softly until they curved into a gentle smile. He pulled away, looking deep into her eyes and nodded reassuringly.

“Promise.”

It was all she needed before she closed her eyes exhaling all the stress and worry from the night and resuming her position buried within his chest. Alex closed his eyes and it wasn’t long before the two of them were dancing away on the dream plane.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

She felt the finger poking her shoulder but she decided to ignore it, and that plan was working well and good until the person attached to the finger got even more impatient and started poking her face. She managed not to react for a full minute before she scrunched up her face in disapproval. When the finger got a little to close to her eye for comfort she snapped her bright baby blues open and glared at the hand hovering over her face.

“Whadda you want Zan. It’s too early.”

“I’m hungry.”

She rolled her now annoyed blue eyes at him.

“It’s your apartment, you knows where the kitchen is, go make yourself some food.”

Zan dropped his hand to her waist and started to unconsciously draw circles on the span of skin that was exposed when her t-shirt rode up while she was asleep.

Ava felt the goose bumps rise on her skin and watched her arm fascinated as they spread from her waist vaguely noting her nipples also hardening at his touch. When she leaned her chest into him Zan smirked feeling the reaction she had to him and hoping she failed to notice the effect she had on him.

She chose to ignore his evident arousal for her since they were surrounded by their friends.

“You make the best waffles though.”

Ava seemed to consider this as she stretched and smiled innocently when she heard Zan’s sharp intake of breath as she brushed up against some more prominent parts of him. When he grabbed her waist and pulled her towards him she let out a soft moan which was cut short as a pillow landed across her and Zan.

“Can you two not go there?”

Ava rolled her eyes as Maria let out a muffled chuckle, “Leave them alone Michael.”

Zan sat up a little to find Michael stretched out on his stomach with one arm tossed around Maria who was curled into his side facing himself and Ava.

“No, I don’t wanna lose my appetite.”

“Is that even possible?” Max asked as he too sat up and looked confused having just joined the conscious world.

He glanced between Zan and Ava who was by this point standing and stretching her arms over her head then glancing at Michael who was grumbling about something and Maria who had a big smile on her face despite the fact that her eyes were still closed; Max decided it was better if he didn’t figure out the rest of the conversation.

Zan was about to yell at all of them to get the hell out of his apartment so he could continue what he started with Ava when he heard her digging around in the kitchen for a pan and his face lit up.

He leaned over the counter and checked out her ass when she bent into the refrigerator licking his lips as the first fantasy came to mind and then as she place the bottle of Tabasco in front of him smiling. Zan couldn’t help but grin back at her as her crystal blue gaze locked with his amber eyes.

It wasn’t until Zan heard the loud chuckling from the others that he broke their staring contest and Ava started back in on the waffles. He found Maria tossing pillows at Liz trying to wake her up and Isabel sitting up slowly with her hair in a thousand different directions. It didn’t take long for Zan to discover that neither of them were morning people. At least not when the night before was spent stressing about aliens taking over one of their own or going up against their murderer.

Michael who was directing most of his laughter at Isabel and her bed-head was soon facing a glare from Isabel which only worked to increase his laughter.

“Maria!”

The room went silent at Liz’s sharp outburst, but as soon a Maria let her giggle slip Michael joined her as did Zan and Ava. Max smiled fondly at Liz and even Isabel laughed forgetting for a second that she had just woken up and looked far from her standards.

The laughter had woken up Serena who glared at them all as she moved from her room to the bathroom. They had the decency to wait until the shower started before more laughter started waking up yet another person.

When Alex slowly sat up and asked groggily, “What’s going on?” Even Liz found it in herself to join in on the laughter this time.

Through it all Kyle slept on undisturbed.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

An hour later they were gathered around the very small counter enjoying the most delicious chocolate-chip waffles any of them had ever eaten. While Ava had made waffles Liz had fried up some bacon and sausage which was being eaten up just a quick.

“So what do we do today?” Alex asked as he grabbed for one of the last pieces of bacon only to be shooed away by Zan’s hand as Michael took the opportunity to grab the last piece.

Zan glared a Michael before answering, “Relax, that is as long as nobody feels the need to get kidnapped or compromised.”

Ava whacked him across the back of the head before reaching across his plate for the Tabasco sauce.

“What?”

Maria rolled her eyes, “It’s not like we do that stuff on purpose.”

Zan rolled his eyes at her answer, “Coulda fooled me.” He ducked before Ava’s hand managed to make contact the second time.

“Kidding.”

“Whitman has a point though, what are we going to do today?” Michael bit into the last waffle on his plate chewing it obnoxiously towards Maria who rolled her eyes at him.

“Most of us have to work. I know Maria and I have the after noon shift and Michael and Ava are closing tonight at the Crashdown. Max has to work at the UFO center too, right?” Liz turned in her stool to better see Max.

“Mhmm, hhmmm.” He made some sort of agreement sounds before resting his chin on her shoulder and watching his friends as they did something as simple as eat breakfast together.

Maria looked at the others, “Well what about you guys?”

Kyle shrugged and continued to shovel food into his mouth as if he hadn’t been fed in ages. Isabel turned a cautious smile towards Alex before speaking, “I was going to maybe call Grant and see if he wanted to hang out.”

Alex smiled again at Isabel understanding why she was doing this and not feeling the least bit threaten by it. It was after all necessary to save the world from creepy alien parasites.

Max nodded his head, “That’s a good idea Iz.”

“Serena you won’t tell us anything else about this gandarium?”

Serena gave a regretful smile to Liz but shook her head all the same, “Sorry guys, not yet who knows when it will happen and some parts of that…adventure…should be left to your own discovery.”

It seems Michael was the only one to miss the distinct look she sent towards him during that brief speech. No one said anything more though about the look, choosing instead to return to the conversation about the gandarium.

“So it’s blue crystal stuff that was used to mix our DNAs together on the ship?”

Serena nodded at Max’s clarification.

“And it needs oxygen to survive right?”

Again Serena nodded at Ava.

“It’s that hive-like part that gets me. It’s just creepy to think of the gandarium Queen going around infecting some poor innocent human just because they’re supposedly flawed. I tell you for an advance life form, you people are pretty wacko with your ideas.”

Kyle flinched as Michael punched him in the arm and Isabel managed to smack him across the back of the head. He also did not appreciate the static electricity that suddenly shocked him when he reached for his glass. Zan’s large smile only made it less so.

“We should all head home probably. Put in some time with the parentals.” The others made some sort of signs of agreement as they all shuffled around to clean up their plates before heading off in separate directions towards home.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Liz exhaled a long tire breath as she fell into the back corner booth and took off her alien antennas. Staying up all night worrying about Amy, Serena, and Isabel and then working the busy afternoon shift at the Crashdown was not good for her beauty rest. She managed a weak smile as Maria rushed by her to the order window feeling sorry her friend still had three more hours of work.

“Liz, I know you just got off, but can you run this order across the street?”

She sighed looking up into Maria’s equally tired eyes.

“But Brody likes it better when you delivery his food.”

Maria held out the bag and gave Liz a smirk as her exhausted emerald eyes pulled off a twinkle, “Who said anything about a Galaxy Sub?”

Feeling a rush of new energy Liz sat up reaching for the bag, “Max?”

“Of course, Chica.”

Without another word Liz was out the door and walking across Main street. Holding the UFO Center door open for a family of four she followed in after them slowly letting her eyes adjust

“Hi Liz! How’s Maria?” She smiled looking at the kind yet eccentric eyes of Brody Davis.

“Umm she’s good, busy at the Crashdown, but good.”

Liz watched as Brody nodded thoughtfully and then looked around suspiciously before taking a step closer and lowering his voice.

“Can you let her know if I disappear for a few days it’s nothing personal,” Liz gave him a soft smile as he blushed before continuing hesitantly, “it’s just, well honestly I feel like it might be happening again soon. You know?”

Having never been ‘abducted’ by aliens before Liz was positive she didn’t know what that was like, but she understood what Brody was implying so she nodded nonetheless making a mental note that they may be getting their first visit from Larek soon.

“Anyways, Max is in the back on the computers go ahead.”

“Thanks Brody. And um…be careful you know, on your trip.” Without waiting for an answer Liz set out to find Max.

Seeing him exactly where Brody said he was, Liz crept up behind him s quietly as she could. Right before she lifted her hands to cover his eyes Max spoke up.

“Hi Liz.”

She deflated momentarily at behind discovered, but smiled as Max turned around in the chair and pulled her onto his lap.

“How was work?”

Resting her head on his shoulder as he ran one hand up and down her back she sighed contently and relaxed for the first time since she got off work half an hour ago.

“Exhausting, more so then usual. What about you?”

She felt Max shrug his shoulders as he began to paly with her hand with his other one.

“Not too bad I guess, it’s winter so it’s not as busy. I have a lot of time to do research on Brody’s computer.”

Liz spun them back towards the computer screen while asking, “What kind of research?”

Max gave another half shrug before reaching forward to click the mouse so Liz could see for herself.

“A bunch of stuff really. The water system under Fraiser Woods, a couple of things Alex mentioned about finding new Skin camps. Oh and that super computer in Las Cruces.”

He felt Liz go stiff and frowned as he realized what he had so carelessly mentioned.

“You want to translate the ‘destiny book’?”

Making sure to keep eye contact the entire time Max tried to explain as sincerely as he could.

“I know Tess did in that other life time, but who knows how honest that translation was. There might be something in there that could actually be beneficial to us. Don’t worry Liz, I’m not going to put any of us at risk for a stupid book.”

“I know that Max. I was just surprised, that’s all.”

Comfortable silence enveloped them for a little while as Max began to eat his burger and Liz munched on his fries. “Oh, I think Larek an be making an appearance soon. Brody was acting odd.”

Liz watched as Max raised an eyebrow in doubt, “Odder then usual?”

“Well,” her cheeks turning pinker then normal, “not really.” She went on to explain but then saw the laughter dancing in his eyes she smacked his shoulder playfully. “Jerk.”

Max chuckled softly as he squeezed Liz’s arm tenderly.

“I should go…"

Max cut her off, “You’re done with work.”

Liz stood, straightening her apron from her uniform she had yet to change out of, “Yeah, but you’re not.”

Dropping a quick kiss on his surprised lips Liz sent a wink at Max before slipping out the door and skipping back across the street with much more energy then when she left.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

It was a week later when Alex and Isabel were sitting in the movie theater that she was pulled into the dreams of Laurie Dupree. Acting much more carefully this time around, Alex, Isabel, Serena and Sheriff Valenti were able to save the poor girl from her premature grave.

A little more detective work from team Guerin and DeLuca made the crazy mystery girl, Michael’s misunderstood, wealthy pseudo sister. At least that’s what Michael decided to call her. Human donor granddaughter was still too creepy even the second time around.

Michael managed not to get shot. Kyle and Alex did not fear death by alien crystals and when Grant did kidnap Isabel dragging her to Tucson Arizona, Max and Zan were on the plane with Sheriff Valenti and Suzanne Duff.

Between the two of them, when the queen left Grant’s body they were able to save his life while Michael destroyed the queen as direct by Amy and Serena.

After that Ava had to do a lot of carefully clean up work. She tediously arranged Grant’s memories and took away a few that were too sci-fi to be explained before giving him the urge to move to colder climates and never return.

Sheriff Valenti didn’t lose his job this time rather he received an award for his constant hard work and dedication.

In the days that followed most of the teens were too on edge to have any fun or relax do to the latest scare that threatened Earth and it’s 6.6 billion inhabitants.

The stress of such hectic events was only beginning to fade from everyone’s mind as the weekend hit them once again and for the first time in a while they all gathered together for some simple, relaxing fun.

At least it would have been had Isabel not remembered what Kal had told her of the Prophecy.

She was forced to put it out of her mind to extract Khivar from Amy’s mind and her first encounter with him left her slightly shaken. Before any of them had even settled into the routine that began with Ava’s waffles, they were dealing with the whole ganderium thing. So it wasn’t until that very moment that Isabel brought it up as Serena came back with another bowl of Tabasco laced popcorn.

“Rena, why didn’t you ever tell us the full extent of the Prophecy?”

If it wasn’t so serious Serena’s deer in the headlight look would’ve been comical. As it lightened Isabel could see her trying to calculate how difficult it would be to put off the question or even lie.

But as the others turned their attention away form the movie to the woman in question Serena gave up any hope of getting out of this one with a lie. She closed her eyes bracing herself as she began to explain herself,

“You’re sixteen years old. You’re sixteen year old hybrids dealing with special government agencies, enemy aliens, and a soon to be intergalactic war. Not to mention the concept of time travel. How am I supposed to tell you on top of all that when you have children, if earth survives that long they’ll have to leave you for another planet? Probably no older than you are now.”

The apartment was bathed in silence; the movie being cut short by one of the teens. For a long time afterward as this news sunk in the only thing heard was their steady breathing.

Finally it is Zan who shrugs off such a shocking revelation, “Chill guys. It’ll be okay. It’s not like we’ll send them off on their own.”

Isabel smirks ironically, “Yeah Kal will be with them.”

Her response merely confused the others as Serena speaks softly once again, “You guys can’t go with.”

“Why the hell not?”

Serena’s surprised. Only because it took so long for the outburst form Michael who from the very start of Isabel’s question looked unsteady.

“Our DNA doesn’t allow it and with Khivar in power we’d never make it to the technology in time that could make it possible.”

“What about Ava and Zan?” Liz’s scientific mind recalling conversations held with Serena about the higher amount of alien dominated genes in the two of them.

“Aren’t they more…alien?” She smiles to indicate it isn’t meant to be insulting.

“Yes, but it still doesn’t give them very good chances. Speaking of which, I just want to ask what the hell you guys were thinking when you listened to Kal?”

The sudden change of topic and Serena’s reprimand has all of them reeling. Serena takes that opportunity to drive home her point before any of them found their voice to question what she is referring to.

“He’s a bloody shape-shifter, which doesn’t really matter until you consider the very real, still existent threat of Nasedo also a shape-shifter. None of you have ever actually met Kal and Isabel going off alone with him so readily was just plane stupid, on all your behalfs.

Kyle and Alex shift uncomfortably on the floor, gratefully Serena’s current wrath isn’t directed to them. Liz was nodding her head in agreement as Maria spaced off reflectively. The hybrids themselves were a mixture of emotions.

Max cleared his throat giving voice to just some of those emotions, “I think we all realize that and such carelessness won’t happen again. Considering though what was at stake, it was worth it.”

Most of the others agree instantly as the horror of what could of happen hit them.

Serena was shaking her head to halt their train of thought, “Amy would kill you to know you’re thinking like this. Sure its admirable to want to save her and willing to risk going up against the shape-shifter, but if it had been Nasedo, Isabel would be dead right now.”

“Serena I don’t think that’s necessarily true,” Liz started off hesitantly, “Not to mention the fact that you are severely underestimating the amount of control and strength all of them have developed. I think Nasedo might have to keep Isabel around now since Lonnie’s gone.”

Maria rolled her eyes, “How reassuring.” Despite the serious tone many of the others managed at the very least a small smile.

“I just don’t want us making small mistakes like that because it the end it could cost us our lives.” Serena smiled sadly at all of them, sorry for ruining the night of fun, but knowing it was a point she had to get across.

“Well if we all agree to not be idiots any more can we finish the movie?” Surprisingly it was Max who had the witty comeback for Ava’s slightly sarcastic question.

“Now will never be able to watch the movie.” The others turned to him baffled, as he tried to hold back his smile, “Michael, Zan, and Kyle will never stop being idiots.”

Just like that, the original atmosphere of simple relaxed fun was restored, at least for the time being.

TBC…

Part 34

Ava was sitting peacefully in the Crashdown on a quiet Sunday, almost two weeks after the movie night at Serena’s, when Brody walked in looking around before joining her at the counter.

Liz’s prediction of a almost a month ago rang in her ears that boring Sunday afternoon as Brody’s eyes unwillingly filled with tears and he spoke in a hush, astonished tone.

“Ava?”

She watched him cautiously gaping into his soul before responding in the same whispered tone as she nodded her head,

“Larek?”

Brody crushed the petite girl to him in jubilation allowing a few tears to escape his blue eyes as he felt his neck dampen with Ava’s own tears at being reunited with her brother.

“I was so scared I wouldn’t find you. The four of you disappeared from New York so we couldn’t call the Summit. Then Nicholas turns up missing so Khivar decided to postpone it.”

Ava was overwhelmed at the wealth of information she heard.

“Larek slow down!" Remembering where she was and trying to keep her voice low she continued, "What are you talking about? What Summit? Who’s Nicholas?”

Ava watched as Brody’s eyes widen and he pulled himself away, “YOU said you were AVA.”

Cursing at the haze of distrust that suddenly surrounded him Ava nodded her head quickly, her blonde hair reflecting the afternoon sunshine.

“I am. We just…” she paused looking around cautiously making sure no one was listening. Catching Michael’s eye in the order window he gave a brief nod and she rushed on, “we don’t have our memories from before.”

This shock took Larek a moment to recover from.

“Oh. It’s a wonder you’ve survived this long.”

He trailed off and seemed to get lost in his own mind for a few minutes. Ava was about to repeat her questions when Larek started talking again, “The Summit, well we’ll have to get into that later, somewhere more private. It’s a long complicated process. I should probably also inform you of a rumor going around about the being you know as Nasedo.”

He stopped, watching as Ava paled and braced himself for her reaction to the next piece of information, “As for Nicholas, why that’s Khivar’s half brother.”

Ava’s mouth dropped open in surprise, but Larek was far from done with the revelations, “I guess technically, by Earth standards that is, it would make him Rath’s brother too.”

The only response Larek got was the crash of dishes from the kitchen and a befuddled looking Michael, followed by the dead silence that engulfed the Crashdown because of the shattered plates.

TBC…

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Part 35

Twenty minutes later Jeff Parker was working behind the grill at Crashdown and Michael was pacing his overly stuffed apartment. It was the nine teens who were in attendance despite his protests everyone had been called to his place to hear whatever it was Larek had to say.

Larek who they were still waiting for because he had to release Brody and increase security back on Tarian realizing he would be communicating with Earth longer then anticipated.

With the exception of Michael’s pacing, the small apartment was silent. The tension from this prolonged quiet was almost unbearable. Everyone was worried about Michael. After Ava had told Max what Larek had said it spread like a forest fire throughout the group.

As did their confusion.

As far as they knew Rath was the second cousin to Zan, Vilandra, and Zillana. Now they find out he’s brothers somehow with Khivar and some random man, Nicholas. Some of them were questioning why Future Isabel didn’t tell them, but this question was answered once they realized she tried to tell them as little as possible about their past lives.

“Why wouldn’t she tell me? Why didn’t she say anything about this?” Michael being not among those thinking clearly at the present moment finally broke the silence looking at Isabel.

From the train of thought Isabel’s mind had just taken she knew he meant her, well the Future her and although Isabel couldn’t get into the other Isabel’s head, she had a pretty good idea of her own. At least why she wouldn’t tell Michael something that huge.

“It doesn’t matter Michael.”

“Like hell it doesn’t. That monster is part of my family.”

“No Michael. We’re your family. The people in this room who care about you, who would risk their lives for you, they’re your family. Khivar and Nicholas are no more you’re family then Hank was.” Max jumped to the defense of his sister trying to get through the think walls of Michael’s skull knowing what a difficult task it would be, even more so if they waited longer and let him question himself.

Those who were more level headed began to wonder if Kal knew and just hasn’t told them about this particular relationship. Not that they could blame him because it’s not like Kal liked them very much to tell them anything or was around to tell them anything. It was this thought that led them to think of two people who were responsible for them. Who might know this detail and were perhaps purposely neglecting to tell them this tiny, highly significant fact.

Michael didn’t respond, but Maria offered them a new question to think about, “Doesn’t this fall under the category of being idiots again? I mean we don’t know this Larek person at all and yet we’re inviting him into Michael’s home. No offense Ava’s I know he’s your brother or something, but we don’t really know this guy. Isn’t he the reason my mom was compromised in the first place?”

“It’s not stupid because there are nine of us against one. Plus, he’s in a human body so he doesn’t have any powers on his side.” Zan answers logically ignoring the last part of Maria’s question because he wasn’t sure how much of a risk they were facing this time with that.

“I’ll make sure nothing happens while he’s here as far as unwanted mind connections go.” Isabel answered from her spot in the apartment ending the last of Maria’s concerns and letting the silence engulf them once again.

When Larek finally knocked on the door it didn’t penetrate Michael’s pacing so it was Max who opened it. He briefly acknowledged Larek’s small bow of his head before opening the door wider to allow him entrance.

As strange as it was to have his boss in Michael’s dingy apartment it was even weirder to think it was really the king of a planet in the dilapidated place. That Max in fact was at some point the king of a planet.

While these nonsensical thoughts rushed through Max’s head he looked over his friends and family. Alex, Kyle, Maria, and Liz all looked deeply concerned for Michael and a bit apprehensive to hear what Larek had to say.

Ava changed between concern for Michael, curiosity to what Larek had to tell them, and joy at getting to spend time with her brother despite the circumstances. Isabel looked positively ill. It was beyond worry for Michael. Max realized suddenly that Isabel was afraid. Max couldn’t have realized that Isabel wasn’t so much afraid of Khivar or whatever relations he had to them, but more afraid of what the knowledge of these relationships would do to them.

What this new knowledge would do to Michael particularly.

Max’s own concern for Michael doubled and now he looked between his lifelong siblings nervous about both of them. Max saw that Zan shared most of his emotions as well as a bit of unease. Whether it was anxiety of what Larek would reveal to them or because Serena wasn’t home from her shopping trip with Amy yet to here this Max wasn’t sure.

Larek let out a soft cough and wasn’t surprised when he had the undivided attention of the nine teens. “I apologize for the shock earlier. It was wrong of me to blurt out such personal details that you had no access to.”

Naturally he was cut off as Michael’s patience finally reached a breaking point. “Can you just get to the point.”

For a second Larek appeared stunned to have been spoken to in such a tone, but then familiarity covered his face and he nodded briskly.

Making amends for misspeaking earlier, he took a deep breath before going on, “Well, I suppose it all starts with Rath’s parents…”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Serena didn’t mind me stealing you away from your shopping date?”

Amy giggled like a school girl as Jim place a hand on her lower back, gently guiding her around the tables.

“No, she was fine with it. Almost more excited then I am” glancing over her shoulder she winked at him.

“She really wanted to see that movie, I refused to go see those scary movies, and I know sometimes she feels hesitant to hang out with the kids. She feels like she’s crashing their party.”

“I’m sure that’s the furthest thing from the truth. Those kids are…”

Placing a hand on his arm he stopped abruptly looking up in Amy’s pale green eyes.

“I know. It’s just how she feels, so she wanted to go see that movie, which works out perfectly for us.”

By the end of the statement Amy was almost whispering. Jim had reached over with his free arm caressing the hand still resting on his. There eyes locked and they shared a secret smile causing Jim to blush and Amy to glance around for their waiter.

Signaling that they were ready to order the waiter was quickly at their table side jotting down what they wanted to drink and what they would be having for dinner. When he finished Jim and Amy were again left in their bashful silence thick with tension.

“So…”

“I was thinking…”

They halted after both speaking at the same time. This time around it was Amy who blushed and Jim who looked around the restaurant.

“Go ahead Amy.”

She smiled at him, “Actually that’s all I really had.”

Smiling at him brightly the both started to laugh cutting through the tension and moving past the awkward tension into a long in-depth conversation about not only their own children, but the ever increasing number of teens they found themselves responsible for.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

When Serena finally left the movie theater it was still relatively early so she decided to head over to the Crashdown for a bit to eat knowing that Michael and at least one of the girls would be working there; there were bound to be a few of the others hanging around too.

She ignored the tingle at the back of her neck on the long walk there and it was only when she saw Jeff Parker behind the grill that the alarm bells in her head sounded loud and clear. Immediately she went to questioned him, but then remember he had no idea who she was expect for an employee of Amy and it would look slightly suspicious to be asking about Michael. She dropped to a seat at the counter and placed her head on her propped up hand putting her other hand on the counter she was hit with a sudden flash.

Ava’s overwhelming sense of home as Larek wrapped his arms around her.

Serena cursed under her breath and had no choice but to approach Jeff and ask where Ava had gone now that she knew Larek was visiting them.

She leaned on the order window and was hit with another flash, so much more powerful then the first it took her breath away.

“…it would make him Rath’s brother too.” Followed by the crash of dishes and Michael reaching for the edge to steady himself.

Serena opened her eyes to see Mr. Parker’s mouth moving, but she couldn’t make out any of the words.

Anxiety like she never knew before swirled in her gut as she realized Larek had so mindlessly let it slip that Rath was related to man who murdered them in a past life. She just hopped he didn’t tell them about Nicholas too, but knowing Larek as she did…

Serena forced a smile on her face for Mr. Parker’s benefit before turning around and dashing out of the Crashdown towards her apartment complex hoping to get there before Larek told them all of it.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Let me see if I got all this straight. His parents where the rulers of Navian and while his dad was off busy dealing with rebel forces, his mom had an affair with my dad ten years after I was born. An affair which resulted in Khivar who now technically has access to not one but two thrones. But since he’s the illegitimate child of an affair is granted neither of them and instead he’s raised on Navian, not as Nicholas’s half brother which would have been slightly more acceptable then if he was raised on Antar with us,” motioning to himself, Max, Zan, and Isabel, Michael continued the fury in his voice barely controlled, “but like a servant allowing for years of resentment to build up against not Nicholas, who he’s forced to comply to, but us who have no idea he exists until where older.”

Larek knew there was more, so much more really, but he gave a doubtful look towards the one who used to be Vilandra and knew she could handle no more this evening. Plus he had a feeling Zillana would kill him if he told them any more.

“Correct.”

Zan let out an eerie laugh, “Yeah, right. There is so much more going on, but you’re not going to tell us anything else.”

Larek straighten his backbone, not used to his friend Zan speaking to him in such a way,

“No I’m not. I explained to you how it is that Rath was related to Khivar and thus Nicholas, albeit it was an illegitimate relationship that nobody ever acknowledged except Khviar to aggravate you all. It wasn’t important then and it certainly isn’t important now. They were raised in completely different environments then we were which is why you have close to nothing in common. Nothing of any importance anyway.”

Michael scoffed at him, “So what we have the same colors eyes, skin tone and a similar thirst for blood?”

The door suddenly slammed open and they saw a panicked and very pissed off Serena, “Damn it Larek!”

She shut the door just as loudly as she opened it and turned to the now distrustful gazes of her charges, her family. Running a hand through her hair she met Michael’s eyes.

“How much did he tell you?”

He crossed his arms over his chest defensively and accusingly at the same time, “More then you shared.”

“I didn’t tell you because of that exact reaction!”

“Serena you still should have told us.”

Unbelieving she turned to Max, “You have no idea…”

“Yeah, because you didn’t feel the need to share.”

“Michael, stop it.” Isabel hated when they bickered like children. She had begun to think they had moved past all that in these recent months, but they were still very emotional teenagers.

Michael rolled his eyes and mumbled something under his breath.

Isabel raised her eyebrows, “What was that?”

“I said at least my relationship to him was involuntary.”

“Oh you are such an ass!”

Serena covered her eyes with her hand, “Larek I can’t believe you told them…”

“Somebody had too.” It was odd to see the usually happy energetic Brody fuming with anger.

“I was going to.”

Michael rolled his eyes, “When, as Khivar was knocking on our front door.”

“EVERYONE STOP IT.”

Silence immediately filled the small apartment, but the tension continued to grow even if the voices had stopped.

Now that Zan had gained their attention he was at a loss as to how to continue. He looked at Max who expertly took over.

“Larek, thank you for telling us what you did. I think you should return Brody now before any harm comes to him or yourself back on Tarian. Perhaps we can meet again later in the week to discuss the Summit you mentioned and the rumors going around about Nasedo?”

Larek’s head gave a single sharp nod and he got up to leave only pausing to give Ava a brief hug.

“Michael and Isabel neither of you are going to play the blame game, on each other or yourselves. None of us are. Is that understood?”

Max waited until he had nods of agreement from the entire apartment.

“Now Serena maybe you can explain to us why you didn’t tell us this and anything else from our past that may be of importance in the future.”

She hated that the whole room was now focused on her with such anger and for a few moments she considered just leaving, but knew in reality that wasn’t a choice. It took her a while to gain up the courage, but she did eventually speak after throwing herself into the only open recliner left in the room.

“There are some things, that I’m not ready to tell you. I don’t know if I ever will be, but they aren’t important.”

Isabel interrupted her suddenly, “Things like Vilandra and Khivar’s love affair.”

Serena winced, but nodded hesitantly. “The details of such things aren’t really important…”

“They are too me. Did I…did she love him.”

Serena closed her eyes unable to look at them while she explained. Granted she was leaving so much out but Isabel needed to hear at least this much.

And with time she would have no choice, but to tell the rest. If for no other reason then because Khivar was bound to bring it up. As for right now though she would be able to get away with only telling them the smallest amount of details.

“No. Vilandra didn’t love Khivar. I don’t think Vilandra really loved any man. She was just…Vilandra loved being a princess. It put tons of men at her feet worshiping her, adorers from all five planets. But there was something she loved more then a man making a fool of himself for her beauty and that was acknowledging her intelligence. Vilandra was much more intelligent then your stereotypical princess. She was in-charge of Antar’s trade agreements and interplanetary relationships which put her in close contact with Tarian. As you recall Tarian was the leader of resources in the five star system.”

She stopped talking as they all nodded, remembering that detail from Future Isabel or whoever told them in the days that followed,

“Khivar needed that access, so he flattered her like the true mastermind he was, knowing that Vilandra could withstand her admirers when they talked of nothing, but her beauty and bedding her, but was more susceptible to those noticing her intelligence. Khivar rarely commented on her physical attributes; paying huge compliments to her smarts. It was Vilanrda’s only weaknesses.”

Serena allowed them all time to grasp this new information and waited for someone to prompt her into continuing some sort of explanation about Rath’s complex family relationships. She didn’t have to wait long.

In a much calmer tone then he had spoken in all evening Michael asked, “Can you…Larek was kinda vague…” he trailed off unsure how much of this he really wanted to know now that he had the basics.

Serena nodded, “Naava was Nicholas’s mother. While King Nar, his father, was busy dealing with rebels who were against the five system alliance, Queen Naava got bored. It just so happened General Rafer, your father, was on Navian to work on the alliance. An alliance that didn’t happen. At some point during the dealings Rafer and Naava snuck off for their tryst. At this point Zan, Vilandra, and Rath were already nine years old. So was Nicholas. Larek was a couple years older and Ava was a few years younger. I believe Queen Vala, our mother, was pregnant with me at the time.

On Rath’s tenth birthday I was born, around the time when Nicholas turned ten Khivar was born. For a long time nobody, but Lady Naava, General Rafer, and King Nar knew Khivar was an illegitimate child between Naava and Rafer. Since Antar had stricter rules then Navian, and because the bond between a mother and child is particularly strong in their early year Khivar stayed on Navian with Naava and King Nar.

King Nar refused to allow Khivar to be raised with Nicholas as if he was his own. Despite this and the fact that Khivar was seen as a servant at times to Nicholas, the two of them were the best of friends. I always thought it was because they shared the same devious way of thinking hidden by intellect and charms."

Her small attempted at a joke earned her no smiles.

“Anyway, Khivar naturally grew to resent Zan and Larek because of their legitimate claims to their throne and Rath because he was so close to both of them and so well respected. It wasn’t until Rath was put in-line for the throne through his marriage to Vilandra that Khivar started his crusade against us. Disguising it as an attempt for another five system alliance bringing the lesser three planets into a more prominent roles like Tarian and Antar held.

I believe it was Queen Vala who revealed Khivar’s parentage. She had the power of foresight and couldn’t keep it a secret from her cousin Vyra. They were like sisters. At this point General Rafer was already dead so there was no real repercussion that could have been had. Since Khivar had never been to Antar or acknowledged as having any position of power, it couldn’t be revoked from him.

Vyra was devastated to learn Rafer betrayed her like that. Rath was also shocked to learn of his father’s betrayal and refused to accept he had a half brother Khivar especially considering Khivar’s only goal in life was to, in reality, take control of Antar and Tarian…”

“What do you mean in reality?”

Ava’s blue eyes were very confused now, up until that point she and the others had done a fairly decent job of keeping track of all the new names and details.

“For a long time the majority of the people thought Khivar was trying to do a good thing bringing unity between the five planets by making them more equal. A lot of people especially started to believe it once they realized he had a lot to gain being heir to two different planets even if it was illegitimately. The fact that Rafer was his father distracted a lot of people from remembering he was raised alongside Nicholas. And King Nar was a far cry from an ideal person let alone king. They assumed Rath’s morals would be reflected in Khivar forgetting Nicholas lacked any morals and would actually be more of a resemblance to Khivar. Like Larek said in the end the relationship didn’t really matter all that much. Everything Khivar was given was a direct result from his close relationship to Nicholas who as crowned prince of Navian could have whatever he wanted. And because he ended up so close to Khivar, he naturally shared all his wealthy."

“All that much?”

Isabel raised an eyebrow at her sister who only sighed before trying to fill in that detail without over sharing.

“It really pissed off Rath. His anger probably distracted him a few times and led him to make more rash decisions, but nothing that was fatal to us. Nothing that ended up getting us all killed…that was all Khivar’s doing. On his own.”

“And his being related to Rath probably didn’t help Vilandra in avoiding him either when he was flattering her did it?”

“Actually it was because of that, Vilandra remained suspicious of him since she was already married to Rath.”

“Oh, well that’s good.” Serena shrugged indifferently, it didn’t help her any, speaking her next thoughts out loud.

“It was a lifetime ago. It hardly mattered then and it sure as hell doesn’t matter now in respects to who you all are. Who you all worked so hard to become.”

Serena had given them a much more thorough explanation then Larek had plus she’d reassured their confidence in themselves.

Well she thought she had.

She had tried at least. It was up to them how they would react to this. Allowing them to consider all she said she got up to get her self a drink. Max spoke as she was walking into Michael’s kitchen.

“I think that’s enough of a history lesson what do you guys think?”

Ava, Isabel and Michael only nodded Zan opened his mouth, “Sounds good to me duke.”

Max smiled and looked towards the other four. Alex and Kyle shrugged not really caring all that much if the aliens had decided they had heard enough for now who were they to disagree? Maria didn’t really give Max an answer as she went to Michael’s side to comfort him silently.

Catching Liz’s brown eyes he saw the wheels of her mind storing some details, running facts and names over again in her head, it was the sudden flash of terror that had him going over and taking her hand,

“Liz.”

She didn’t respond to him rather she turned towards Serena who was mid-gulp of a Snapple choking at LIz's question.

“What happen to Nicholas?”

It wasn’t that Serena couldn’t tell them, but for some reason she was hesitant to do so. Stalling for time she stupidly questioned, “On Antar?”

“I guess…”

“Well Khivar had Antar and Nicholas had Navi. They quickly conquered the two smallest planets in the star system and ever since then Khivar has been struggling to get control over Tarian. Larek has been able to hold him back since Khviar doesn’t have the Granilith and a lot of refugees fled to Tarian and have taken up the fight to free their planets. Even though Nicholas is ten years older, Khivar was always the one plotting and as they got older it was Khivar who gave the orders to Nicholas. After your ship crashed Khivar realized you had been cloned and he sent a ship of his own filled with Skins."

She paused taking a deep breath for courage before finishing, "Nicholas was on that ship.”

She watched as every single one of them paled

Maria spoke first as usual, “He’s here…on Earth?” She tried to gulp down the fear that was suddenly making her sick for some unknown reason. Michael reassuring held her hand to show he wouldn’t let anything happen to her, but for once she barely noticed.

Serena shook her head, “He was…” she never go to finish the thought as Michael connected the dots seconds ahead of her explanation.

“Future Isabel?”

Even though it was stated as a question there was no question in Michael’s eyes as Serena affirmed the question with a single nod of her head.

“Was he really that…” Michael couldn’t find any words to complete the sentence.

Again Serena could only nod.

“What did he…”

She was already shaking her head in the negative refusing to answer that last question. Their eyes locked in a silent battle of the wills, but Serena knew this was one thing she would never tell any of them. It would cause the kind of pain Future Isabel tried to spare them from.

And besides she was pretty sure Michael may have already seen some of it from the flashes he shared with Future Isabel. That was more then enough as far as Serena was concerned.

Kyle interrupted their staring contest with a question.

“Can one of you two explain that a little better for those of us who don’t know precisely what you’re talking about?”

Michael’s brown eyes made brief but intense contact with Maria’s green ones and an understanding was immediately transmitted allowing her to speak up and explain it to everyone else.

“Future Isabel, was kind of apprehensive before she left us. In that letter she said there was something she had to do, something only she could take care of, it was Nicholas wasn’t it?”

Serena smiled at the interaction between Michael and Maria taking moment to realize she had been asked a question.

“Yes. She went to Copper Summit and took care of Nicholas.”

“So we wouldn’t have to?” Zan turned to Serena as he asked the question pulling Ava into his side suddenly concerned about a threat that apparently no longer existed.

“Because we can’t.”

It was Isabel who filled in the thoughts of a person who ceased to exist months ago.

“When she was here we didn’t have access to our higher powers. Some of us barely had control over the powers we did have.”

“Hey…”

“It’s not a dig Michael it’s just the truth. Whatever Nicholas did in her life, whatever he’s capable of…it was the one thing she wanted to stop no matter what. She did it herself because we not only lacked the abilities; it was the most important thing for her to make sure couldn’t happen again.”

“I think that’s enough for one night you guys. She’s gone, she did what she came here to accomplish and we just have to make sure her efforts weren’t in vain. For that to happen we can’t let the history of people we are semi-connected to change the relationships and connections we have now. Deal?”

Everyone smiled at Ava, at the determination that was shinning in her bright blue eyes.

A determination reflected in all their eyes.

Max and Zan both nodded, Alex, Kyle, and Liz smiled. Serena smirked, relieved that her message had gotten into their thick skulls. Michael grunted and Maria smacked him in the arm before clarifying.

“That means yeah, for the both of us.” She winked at Ava who grinned back. Isabel was the last one to respond but when she did it was in a voice filled with confidence and eyes that held no regrets.

“Deal.”

TBC…

Part 36

Christmas break had come and gone before the entire group was again gathered together this time in Serena and Zan’s apartment waiting for Larek. Some of them looked grossly unprepared for whatever it was Larek was going to share with them considering they barely survived the ordeal that was the Christmas Nazi.

It was still just as crowded especially with the addition of Jim and Amy present to hear all about the Summit and Larek’s news regarding Nasedo.

Kyle and Maria were both taking turns either glaring at their parents in disapproval or making faces of disgust at how cutesy they were being.

Ava found Jim and Amy adorable, but still laughed at every face Kyle or Maria made.

It was a good thing those three were distracted by Jim and Amy otherwise they would have noticed, like Zan and Michael, Larek’s lateness. As it was though, only those two really noticed since there was nothing to entertain them since the hockey game finished twenty minutes ago.

Max, Liz, Alex, and Isabel were all sitting at the counter discussing a group project for school that was due soon now that they were back in classes. They had all somehow managed to convince the teacher to let them be a group. The group being composed of the two smartest people in the grade, Alex found himself finishing a project for school sooner than he ever had before. Not that he minded.

Serena too had noticed that Larek was late, but she was much more patient to begin with and realized the amount of time and energy it would take back on Tarian for a simple conversation down here.

“Would you two cool your jets. You act like he’s driving in from the city instead of traversing the galaxy.”

Alex chuckled, “Technically, Brody is driving in from the city. He did have business in Albuquerque today.”

While no one else found his statement all that funny, Max asked Alex, “How do you know that?”

“OH it’s for computer stuff. We were talking.”

“Ah right…computer stuff.”

Isabel smiled at her brother, “Don’t worry Max, I’m sure Brody will still go to you with the alien stuff. You are the town expert after all.”

“As far as he knows…” Liz couldn’t help but add the small dig teasingly. All of them knowing it was really Serena who was the town expert in aliens. Maybe even Brody considering Larek hijacked his brain for these conversations.

Further discussion was stalled as Zan finally answered the knock at the door letting Brody in after sending him a glare.

“Hi Larek.”

Larek smiled and sent them all a small wave before Ava bounced over and gave him a heartfelt hug. Serena was the next one to approach him, “I’m sorry for last time Larek. I was just...I was scared they couldn’t handle all that this soon, but I’m glad that they know now.”

She ignored the inquisitive look he sent her and smiled hoping they could move past it for now.

“It’s understandable Zillana. I imagine I’d feel the same way if I were you.”

“Please, it’s Serena now.”

“Of course, pardon me.”

“So…these guys said you mentioned a Summit Meeting?”

Nodding he looked questioningly towards Jim and Amy, two people who he couldn’t reason out why they were here.

“That’s Jim Valenti and Amy DeLuca, you can trust them.”

Without any further questions Larek went on, “Khivar wanted to call a Peace Summit, but due to the difficulty in reaching the duplicates and then later problems contacting Nicholas held up the process. He’s trying to figure out why he can’t contact any of the New York pods and getting very angry that Nicholas isn’t responding to his contacts.”

“Nicholas isn’t going to be responding to Khivar.”

Larek looked surprised for a moment, but then very relieved, “You mean he’s…”

Serena nodded, “Yeah, we took care of him.”

“Really!?”

Serena noticed the looks the teens were sending her, but Larek missed them since he was focused on her and she refused to let anyone else know what the Granilith was really capable of doing.

“It wasn’t easy, but I knew it had to be done. As for the New York podlings, as you know they were slightly defective. The Rath and Vilandra clones have been eliminated and he couldn’t reach Zan and Ava because they were here and nobody knows where this set of pods are still...right?”

Larek hesitantly nodded.

“There are gossips as always, but right now Khivar could care less. It would require to much to get your exact location when for him knowing you’re all ‘trapped’ on Earth is good enough for him.”

With that Larek seemed to be finished with whatever it was he needed to say and both Michael and Zan were further upset at having waited so long and being told very little relative information.

Max cleared his throat drawing Larek’s attention towards him. After a slight bow of his head that had Max blushing he started hesitantly.

“Oh, that’s not really necessary Larek. Thank you though.”

While Larek smiled in understanding, Max blushed a deeper shade of red and Michael and Zan tried to hold in their laughter. They were only successfully because of the glares they received from Maria, Isabel, and Ava.

“About the Summit Meeting…do you think…will Khivar still attempt to set one up without Nicholas?”

The room was quiet as they usually eccentric bright eyes of Brody Davis were calm and deep in thought as Larek tried to answer Max’s question.

“I think it will require a number of things turning around in Khivar’s favor before he attempts to hold a Summit Meeting here. As important as the Granilith is to him, he’s arrogant enough to think nothing will change if he isn’t the one acting. So as far as he’s concerned the Granilith will waste away as it has done so for the past 50 years until he decides to use it.”

Since he was so deep in thought trying to figure out the numerous variables that would determine the whims of a mad man Larek missed the significant looks exchanged around the room.

All of them knowing the Granilith has been far from wasting away.

“He would like to have a representative at the meeting and since you tell me Nicholas is dead I don’t see that happening. Khivar doesn’t trust anyone else as much as he trusted Nicholas so he would require the resources for a host. Quite frankly those are resources I don’t think he can, nor is willing to waste right now on a Summit that is really all a show for the people.”

As Larek fell silent again Zan asked the next relevant question, “So if we are actually called for a Peace Summit, it’s all a hoax?”

Larek smiled, “Well you certainly wouldn’t want to give up the Granilith in exchange for peace if that’s what you’re asking.”

Isabel flashed him a charming smile, “What do you suggest we should do then to avoid upsetting Khivar further?”

Most were surprised at the carefree laughter that erupted from Brody at her comment, “Why Princess, I’m certain at this point anything less then all of you dead would somehow serve to upset Khivar. And we can’t very well have all of you dead now can we? It wouldn’t give us very good chances for that Royal Four if you were to perish.”

“I think what she was trying to get at was how do we stop Khivar from coming down to Earth tomorrow and started a war that ends the world.”

The laughter remaining in his eyes faded as the serious atmosphere became stifling. All too quickly Larek seemed to become aware of the fact of how young the people he was dealing with were. Far from the adults that had died a lifetime ago, even if some of their habits reminded him of his dear friends. Larek released a heavy sigh.

“As much as Khivar would probably like to come down here and end all of your lives and take Earth and its resources hostage as soon as tomorrow. He can’t.”

“He can’t?” For some reason Michael and a few of the others were surprised by this.

“Khivar may be powerful, but that doesn’t mean even he has the ability to travel across galaxies in a day. I don’t think even the Granilith can function that quickly. If Khivar left tomorrow it would take him six years to even get here. But he definitely won’t be leaving tomorrow because there are many things he would have to prepare first.”

“Such as?”

While they had the chance and the informant Max wanted to learn everything they could about a man they were bound to fight with for years to come.

“An army. The one he has currently would have to sustain the status quo on the two planets. He’d need a whole other army to start a war down here. He’d also need supplies for all the people he would be sending here. Supplies alone would probably take a year or two to gather.”

“So an army and supplies? That’s all that’s keeping him from coming here now?”

Suddenly Larek’s eyes glittered brightly with mischief, “And as soon as word begins to spread about Nicholas’s death it will cause things to be less stable then Khivar likes up on Antar and Navian. It will motivate the people into action again. It has been a while since they outright revolted against Khivar or his men.”

“Won’t knowing his brother is dead just give Khviar more reason to come here sooner.”

Very assured Larek shook his head in disagreement.

“Khivar has a long list of grievances against the five of you…I guess technically it would be six?” He looked briefly between Zan and Max before shrugging his shoulders at the logistics and continuing, “His brother’s death wouldn’t cause him to act any sooner merely offer another reason for vengeance.”

“How comforting.” Kyle’s smile after he muttered this under his breath reflected the sarcasm of his tone.

Ava brought up another point that was going on neglected, “You mentioned something about Nasedo that would perhaps be useful to us.”

Larek’s eye’s again lit up as he addressed her question, “Yes it would appear that the shape-shifter’s multiple attempts to deal with you and the resulting failures have more than tried Khivar’s patience.”

“So what does that mean for us?” Max asked unsure if he should be relieved or not yet.

“Khivar will not put up with much more from Nasedo.”

Michael responded before anyone could get their hopes up, “So basically Nasedo’s gonna try harder from now on to get rid of us.”

Zan smirked, “Yeah, but he’ll only get one more chance at it, either because we stop him or Khivar deals with him after he blows it again.”

Larek was reassured when they didn’t even consider for a moment that Nasedo would be successful. This planet was in good hands. It would be a while, but eventually his planet and the others would be much better off too.

TBC…

Part 37

The rest of their junior year pasted without much incident. The most exciting thing in fact was probably junior prom when two of the chaperones became engaged. While Ava was thrilled, Maria and Kyle were horrified at the upcoming nuptials of their parents. Amy would ask both Maria and Ava to serves as bridesmaids with Serena as her maid of honor. Max and Michael would stand up for Jim while Kyle was of course the best man. It was the first of many forced pairings of Kyle and Serena, a situation that wouldn’t really go away with all the others being paired off blissfully happy most of the time.

Whether they were staring deeply into each others souls, bickering over insignificant daily things, endlessly flirting, or gazing up at the stars during moonlight dances the teens were happy.

Even though the situation seemed calm the teens kept up a strict training regime. It was very involved with their physical training as well as mental preparations for the likes of Khivar. With the powers, they had to be more careful to make sure no one noticed when they were practicing, but once a month all nine of the teens got in a really good power practice while small things were practiced daily.

Kal too was happy due mostly to the fact that he got to remain in Hollywood demanding all sorts of requests from his assistants and even better the snobbish actors in his movies. Pretending the entire time he knew nothing of aliens or anything else that would seem out of the ordinary. He especially didn’t seem to be one of those abnormal things.

The summer before senior year, the parents were under the impression that their children were doing an awful lot of camping. In actuality they were traveling the country taking care of many of the Skin camps Alex had uncovered. It was good training for the stalling Kal mentioned to Isabel. Kal was nice enough to send along some of the many aliens who worked for him to assist the teens. Max suspected it was because he was so fond of Serena and didn’t want to deal with Amy’s fury if anything happened to Maria or one of her friends.

It arose from no real desire to keep his ‘charges’ safe. The others too suspected that Kal assumed his role was done after he appointed Amy their guardian and until the time came when they were absolutely desperate for his help he would remain aloof physically and emotionally from them. Not that they minded.

There were no more visits from Larek much to Ava’s disappointment and the other’s relief. Because as long as Larek stayed away, Khivar was keeping with his status quo and they had nothing new to fear.

Before any of them realized it the summer was drawing to an end and senior year was starting. The new DeLuca-Valenti family moved into their new home only a few blocks away from the Whitman’s which the teens loved. It was much bigger than either of the other two homes even if it wasn’t quite homey yet. Maria and Ava became fast sisters as they now shared the same living space and it wasn’t long before the two of them were ganging up on Kyle to pull pranks.

Michael and Zan were stressed out due to the heavy course load they had to take on in order to graduate with the rest of their friends and Isabel and Liz were facing the decision of early graduation. They decided to hold off and graduate with their friends going through the whole college application process together only seemed right after all they’d gone through so far.

Even though they were expecting it, when it happened it still came as a shock. Maybe it was due to the fact that it was such a peaceful evening in the empty Crashdown as the holidays were right around the corner or maybe it was because of who it happened to but when he stumbled in bleeding and barely breathing Liz and Ava were immediately at his side assisting him into the booth while Maria was stricken in her place unable to move.

Liz and Ava moved aside and gentle kicked out the few remaining customers and Maria finally managed to kneel in front of him as he winced in pain.

“Michael.”

She covered her mouth with one hand and slowly lifted the other one to place gently on his knee. Removing one arm from his bleeding side he grabbed her hand and gripped it painfully.

As Liz locked the Café door Ava pulled up a chair, “Zan’s on his way, I couldn’t get a hold of the others.”

Liz and Maria immediately tensed further.

“I think Kyle, Alex, and Serena were going to see that new horror movie though so their phones probably aren’t on. I dunno why Max and Iz aren’t answering though.”

“He has them.”

The three girls froze as the pained whispered escaped from Michael.

“Who Michael?” Liz was unable to contain the fear in her voice. Her gut telling her the moment they’ve been dreading for the past year was finally among them. It was finally time to deal with Nasedo.

“Nasedo.” The word seethed out from his clenched teeth like a curse word.

Maria’s gulp was audible and tears immediately filled Liz’s terrified brown eyes. Ava watched as the fear took over and drew in a steady breath to calm herself and think of a plan. She knew she couldn’t leave them alone, not with Michael this injured and defenseless. She silently cursed Jim and Amy for going on a late honeymoon, who the hell does that anyway, but it was merely a distracting thought keeping her sane.

As Michael slid forward almost passing out Maria caught him and helped him to get more firmly in the booth. Ava had a sudden idea, it was a long shot, but it would be quicker then waiting until Zan showed up. She closed her eyes, tuning out the sounds of Michael’s labored breathing and the hitching sobs Liz was trying to stifle. Ava was surprised Maria was holding it together so well, but Ava would take the small miracles she could get; besides by the time Ava was done she knew Liz would have pulled herself together. She just needed a moment to react before the logical determined part kicked in and took over.

She clutched her eyes tighter as she tired to pull from memory the exact pattern of Kyle’s brain.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

It was a scary movie, not as scary as the previews made it seem, and definitely not as worthy of what the reviews in the local paper had said, but Serena considered the money well spent. Alex figured if anything the reaction of the other viewers was well worth his time and money. The occasional scream and hysterics from the younger teens who snuck in was laughable, but when it was Kyle who let out a girlish shirk both Serena and Alex couldn’t help but laugh until they were shushed.

“What the hell are you doing here?” Serena and Alex looked at each other worriedly as Kyle began speaking to the empty seat next to him.

They watched as he became silent and pale even in the darkness of the theater; before he even turned back to address them Serena was gathering together her coat and purse.

Alex looked into Kyle’s unfocused eyes and reached out a hand to touch his shoulder. The contact startled Kyle, but instantly he rushed into an explanation as he too stood putting on his coat. Alex was left scrambling after the other two.

“Ava said Michael was attacked, Nasedo has Max and Isabel.”

Surprisingly when Serena stumbled to a stop and wavered it was Alex who caught her and urged her to keep going, “It’s okay Rena, Max and Iz are tough, they’ll be okay.”

As the cool air of the night hit them Serena became violently ill. Kyle pushed aside her hair and turned a concerned glance to Alex who didn’t look much better.

“They’re going to be okay, right Whitman?”

Even though he didn’t look very confident Alex nodded his head. Kyle was surprised to find such reassurance in Alex’s hazel gaze. Alex seemed to notice Kyle’s reaction to his attitude and he smiled briefly before explaining, “You didn’t meet Future Isabel did you?”

Kyle didn’t get to respond as Serena was suddenly standing up right again. “I should call Kal, just in case.”

“Kal can wait for now, our friends need us.” Alex started off down the block towards the Crashdown, Kyle carefully took Serena’s hand before tugging her along after their friend.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ava opened her eyes to see Maria pacing back and forth while Liz worked at some of Michael’s more superficial wounds. Her back stiff and shoulders tense waiting for the next blow that would hit them.

“Kyle, Alex, and Serena are on their way.”

Maria lifted an eyebrow questioning Ava without words but Ava just shook her head and gently moved Liz out of the way and ran a hand over Michael’s face healing the gash along his cheek. The back door swung open as she finished and startled she turned with her arm still raised sending a stream of fire towards it.

Zan already on the alert instantly raised his shied to protect himself, but was still surprised by the force of power that hit him. He smiled softly as Ava seemed to realize who she was trying to take out and immediately ceased fire. She sure was ready to protect her defenseless friends.

He walked over to the crowded, bloodied booth and whistled low under his breath, “Damn Michael.”

“How bout a little less talking and some healing Zan.”

He flinched at the volume Maria yelled at him, but did as she commanded because Michael did look to be in a lot of pain.

Squatting in front of the booth he put a hand to Michael’s chest where the scorch mark had burned away his t-shirt and left blackened skin.

The contact stung and Michael immediately looked up ready to kill whoever inflicted the extra pain but his stormy brown eyes met glowing amber and he was forcefully pulled into a connection that instantly dulled his pain.

After what seemed like forever to Zan and Michael, Zan’s hand fell away and he unsteadily seated himself in the booth his breathing labored.

Michael stood up slowly examining his now perfect skin and side which was no longer bleeding. Even the scratch marks on his arms were gone. Ava waved a hand in front of him getting rid of the extra blood and fixing up his shirt before stepping around him and joining Zan in the booth. Michael sat back down and was quickly joined by Maria before he noticed Liz and the other three sitting at the table next to them.

Nobody said a word, everyone just waited as patiently as they could for Michael to gather his thoughts together and tell them what happened.

How this had happened.

“We were on our way here, walking because the jeeps in the shop because Mr. Evans saw it smoking before Max could just wave a hand over it…”

He trailed off realizing now how trivial those details were. He dropped his head in his hands and scrubbed his face harshly barely noticing Maria’s hand on his back. Looking up, he met her eyes before turning to stare into the eyes of the others.

Each one offering him strength to continue.

“Isabel stopped to look at something in one of the stupid store windows, Max and I kept walking after she waved us on ahead saying she’d only be a minute. It took us a while to realize she still wasn’t with us so we started walking back thinking that she went into the store. Before we go there a blast comes from the alley taking me down. I get back up not even thinking to try and heal myself while Max is sending electrical waves at Ed Harding standing at the edge of the alley. Max takes a hit to the head and goes down hard. I manage to get myself to my feet and go deeper into the alley where Max was now lying. I look a little further ahead and see Isabel lying on the ground too. She’s unconscious and has a big long gash down the side of her head."

Michael paused as the image surfaced in his mind making him sick. He swallowed the impulse to vomit and rushed on to share the rest of his story.

“I got a couple of blasts off not even thinking because of the pain and anger before Nasedo comments, ‘I thought it’d be much harder to take care of the Royals after the way you delt with Rath and Lonnie.’ His comment makes me feel like an idiot for not using the Granolith right away, but as I’m about to channel its powers he hits me right in the chest practically scorching a hole in it. I was lying there dying when Max manages to get off an electrical blast that knocks out Nasedo. He puts his hand on my chest and fixed me up a bit, but then Nasedo is back blasting both of us for a few rounds. At some point Max manages to distract Nasedo enough and tells me to get out of there and get help.”

Without looking up he can see the disbelief on their faces that he actually listened and he addresses the unasked thought.

“I didn’t want to, but the way Max said it, something in me clicked and just overrode the instinct to protect him and Isabel and got me the out of there.”

“That’s the Granolith, obeying the order of the King.” Serena stated matter of factly.

“That’s bullshit, I’m supposed to be the damn guardian of it and now Max and Isabel are…”

“Max and Isabel are in need of our help. So that’s what we’re gonna do.” Zan spoke up before Michael could get down on himself.

Serena admired his bravery but still had to ask, “How?”

She may have been older, but it’s not as if she was an expert in dealing with all this stuff. It wasn’t everyday you sister and brother are kidnapped by a psychotic murderer.

Her question as she expected was met with silence. Granted she could almost hear the wheels turning in everyone’s head and when Michael finally spoke it was surprising.

“Liz can do it.”

Alex, Kyle, and Maria all looked at him surprised. It appeared that Liz too had forgotten the conversation they had so long ago about the neurological pathways taking shape in her brain. The other three seemed to have an idea about where Michael was going with the idea.

“Michael what are you talking about.”

“No he’s right, I can’t believe we didn’t think of this sooner, that we haven’t been working with them to develop their powers.” Ava impatiently stated as she tried getting out of Zan’s embrace to exit the booth.

Kyle immediately looked distrustful, “Who’s powers?”

Zan’s answering smirk didn’t make him feel any better.

“Since Max healed you, you’re different.” Serena tried to explain gently to Kyle, but her soft tone didn’t appear to be very helpful.

“Different?” Kyle didn’t even have it in him to be embarrassed as it came out in a squeak.

“You’ve been changed.” Michael answered, “I can sense it with my powers. You and Parker are taking a step up on the evolutionary ladder.”

“I hate ladders.”

Alex patted Kyle on the back, “I don’t think you really have a choice Kyle.”

“Oh dealing with aliens and suddenly we have no free will? That’s outrageous.”

None of the aliens took actual offense to Kyle’s remark considering they could see him coming apart at the seams. In fact Zan looked like he wanted to help nudge him closer to the edge, but a severe look from Ava stopped that plan.

Smiling reassuringly Alex added, “Look at the bright side; you probably have nine months before your powers come on-line if Liz’s are just showing up now.”

Before Kyle could react to how very un-reassuring that thought was Liz broke off his panic, “That’s just it we don’t even know if I do have these supposed powers.”

“I can sense them.”

Her anger getting the best of her Liz shouted, “If you can sense them why aren’t you using them to save Max and Isabel!”

The silence that followed was deafening.

Serena took Liz’s hand trying to calm her and get her to focus all at once, “I know my brother, and I know that if there is one voice he will hear no matter where he is, no matter what he’s doing, it’s yours.”

“How?”

Liz wasn’t doubting in her supposed powers, she didn’t even doubt that she would be capable of doing what to someone else would seem impossible. She was pleading with Serena, with all of them really how to make these powers work so the love of her life and one of her closest friends wouldn’t be put through any more pain.

Alex took her other hand, “Just focus on Max. Everything about him, everything you feel for him, just focus on that.”

He had spent enough time with Isabel and her powers to realize Liz basically was trying to form some kind of mental link between the two of them to find out where he was. And since Max wasn’t right here to start the connection with physical contact it would take all of Liz’s focus.

Serena and Ava both nodded when Liz looked at them for direction. She stood up sitting in the next booth, the booth Max was seated in when the gun shot went off, looking at the hopeful eyes of her friends one last time before closing her eyes to focus.

“God I hope this works. If not we are so screwed.” The others glared, but it was only Liz’s unbelieving comment that quieted her.

“I can still hear you Maria, I only closed my eyes.”

“Right, sorry chica. It’s the stress. Forget I said anything and work your magic.”

Liz focused once again and before everything else faded away she heard a once again panicked Kyle,

“Magic! I don’t want any magic. I hate magic.”

TBC…

Words taken from Max in the City

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Part 38

Isabel groaned as the ache in her head became unbearable. It was the pain that pulled her from the darkness into…more darkness. Even squinting her eyes Isabel couldn’t make out her hand as she held it in front of her.

The sudden click followed by the blinding florescent lights didn’t help either.

“Oww.” Isabel shielded her eyes and pulled her body away from the light as best she could noticing for the first time her feet were chained to the floor.

“I’m so sorry to cause you discomfort Princess, but I figured the house was going to no use with Tessie gone and me no longer around. Although, I did forget that I had all the furnishing removed. All those valuables couldn’t stay here with Lonnie and Rath could you imagine the damage they could have caused to those priceless artifacts? My god.”

Isabel’s vision adjusted and even though it was still blurry, from what she assumed was a concussion, she was able to make out Ed Harding standing above her disapprovingly.

“Nasedo.”

“You know, I’ve always hated that name. Riverdog…old man is lucky all I did was kill him.”

Isabel’s eyes widened at his words. “Don’t worry Vilandra, I assure you the old man felt no pain.”

“Not…Vilandra.”

This seemed to humor Nasedo, as a grin split Ed Hardings’ face and laughter filled his emotionless eyes.

“Yes, yes, Khivar did mention you disposition towards your former identity. Why is that I wonder?”

He didn’t really expect an answer as a moment later he was walking around what Isabel now realized was their basement in the Harding house, mumbling to himself.

While he was distracted by his own musing Isabel tried to reach out and contact somebody. Anybody really. Half of her hoping she wasn’t alone the other part praying the others were nowhere near here.

When it didn’t work at first she closed her eyes to concentrate better. It was the clucking of Nasedo close to her ear that had her eyes snapping open as she pulled away from his vile form.

“It won’t work Princess.”

He paused proud of his own plan apparently. “Our good buddy Pierce, you wouldn’t believe the advancements he made towards our kind.”

Isabel scowled, she was nothing like him.

“I managed to get a capsule of the serum that suppresses those nasty little neurotransmitters in the cerebral cortex. Not even your higher powers can work without those suckers.”

Isabel felt hope instantly deflate in her.

“It’s too bad really because Max, is in much worse shape then you are. I’m sure he could you some of that healing I hear he’s so good with.”

“WHERE IS HE? WHERE IS MY BROTHER?” The yelling only increased the ache in the back of her head.

“Don’t worry Princess; he’s upstairs getting some beauty sleep. He’ll be sleeping for a looonngg time. Thankfully so, I still need two more pieces of this collection before I can speak with Khivar.”

Fear and panic started to build in Isabel causing her vision to become even more blurry as the pain increased.

“Now look what you’ve gone and done.”

Then Isabel was once again surrounded by the darkness.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Upstairs Max was very much completely unconscious. His body in much worse shape then when Michael had left him. It looked that he had a broken leg, considering the angle it was at and the marks on his arms had to be second degree burns.

Max too had been injected with the serum, so his body was unable to heal itself above the normal human level. The extent of his injuries was currently keeping him unconscious, but Nasedo was wrong in thinking Max was alone.

When Liz suddenly appeared in the room had she been capable of x-ray vision she would have also noted the sever bruising all along his abdomen.

She was barely able to suppress her cry of distress, but she muffled it under her hand as she sat at the edge of the bed. The surprise of suddenly being with Max was shoved aside immediately. Noting the cuffs holding his arms and non-broken leg only infuriated Liz. She gently brushed the hair from his forehead, and then looked around the room for some type of clue.

It was however completely empty with the exception of the desk which had nothing in it. Walking towards the door quietly Liz listened for a moment before opening the door and trying to find something useful. She made it a full two steps before she felt a tugging in her gut and realized she was starting to fade. Scurrying back to the room she sighed in frustration. How was she to figure out where she was if she couldn’t leave Max’s side and he was currently unable to help her at all?

Movement in the corner drew her attention to the window hidden behind the blinds. She smiled briefly as she tiptoed over and gentle peaked out of the blinds.

She was met with the sight of Suburbia USA clothed in the darkness of night. Liz pulled back thinking Max could be anywhere when something about the neighborhood caught her attention. She checked again just to be sure. It was true. She had been here before. Could it really be this easy? Could Nasedo really be so careless?

Liz went back to Max side leaning close to his ear hoping he would hear her, “We’re coming for you Max. Just like you saved me from this house, we're going to get you out of here. Just rest, try and heal.”

The door open and Liz sat up straight horrified to suddenly find Ed Harding in the doorway. So much more horrifying then when she was in this house the first time as a guest. Surprisingly though he didn’t seem to notice her.

“Maxie boy, how are we this evening?”

Liz watched as Nasedo stuck a needle into Max’s arm and injected him with something, “You’ll be happy to know the Princess was awake shortly. She’s very protective of you, did you know that? Ahh well. How do you feel about company? I’m sure it won’t be long before the others join us.”

Liz slowly pulled herself away from Max, the fear shaking her so badly she could hardly stand. When Nasedo’s attention was drawn to the window she froze realizing that one of the slats was flipped opened still. As the surprising fury filled his usually emotionless gaze, Liz felt a wave of exhaustion and turned to see Max’s form one last time as she suddenly found herself back in the Crashdown booth surrounded by friends.

Ava handed her a glass of water which she took gratefully and gulped at before wiping at the few tears that escaped down her face unnoticed until then.

“It worked?”

Liz nodded almost remorsefully to Alex’s question.

“I didn’t get to see Izzie, but she’s there too and Nasedo said she was awake so she’s probably not hurt too badly.”

Their collective reaction wasn’t what she was expecting, “You talked to him?”

“What the hell were you thinking.”

“My god Liz are you insane.”

“He coulda hurt you.”

Liz held up a hand, “He didn’t see me. He was talking to Max. Well, Max’s unconscious body.”

Serena whispered, “How is he?”

“Not good, a broken leg, really bad burns, he looked pale too, probably from blood loss.”

“Where you able to figure out where he was?”

Liz turned to Michael nodding, “Yeah, they’re at the Hardings.”

“Tess’s house?” Kyle asked in confusion.

“That’s kinda stupid isn’t it?” Maria tried to clarify. After all, if Nasedo was trying to stay hidden it was probably a bad idea to go to the only home he owned when staying in Roswell.

“I thought somebody else would have moved in by now.” Kyle added trying to lessen his own confusion.

Zan shrugged, “Not stupid if he doesn’t expect to stay there very long.”

“Or if he’s expecting visitors?”

Liz smiled at Alex’s question that really wasn’t a question. “Yeah he asked Max how he felt about company. Now we just have to figure out if it’s a trap or if he has plans to kidnap the rest of us one by one.”

“He probably doesn’t want the humans.”

Everyone turned to look at Ava who blushed, “Right that’s so not the point.”

“It doesn’t matter if it’s a trap or not we have to go in to get Izzie and Max.”

“Agreed, but Michael we’re going to be smart about this, it wouldn’t be good if we go in to rescue two of us and end up with more stuck there.”

“Fine, Serena we do this smart…what the hell does that mean?”

“I think that means we call my dad.”

“And I need to make a phone call to California.”

The collective groan would have been laughable had they been in a different situation.

“He’s not that bad you guys.”

Ava rolled her eyes and Zan’s sarcasm was easily detected, “Yeah a real treat.”

The others were relieved for the small distraction away from their currently burdensome lives.

“Maybe he’ll get nicer the more time we spend with him?” Alex suggested naively hopeful, having not actual met Kal yet and being told some good things about him from Isabel despite his aloof outlook.

“Yeah, maybe.” The soft comeback from Michael along with being surprising, quickly brought them quickly back to the serious state in which they found themselves.

Maria and Ava got up getting everyone some drinks while both Serena and Kyle pulled out their phones and wandered a few feet away for some privacy. Liz was a million miles away in her head, at the very least a couple miles west of here with Max so neither Zan or Michael were too concerned when they leaned in to have a private conversation.

“This is bad.”

“Something tells me Max is a lot worse off then Liz could tell.”

Michael nodded knowing his brief experience with Nasedo almost killed him if it wasn’t for Zan…
And Max was going up against him for longer.

“We’ll have to scout out the neighborhood and be very careful with that, disguises and different shifts and people.”

Zan agreed, “Getting Max and Isabel out is our first priority, but Michael if we can end this...”

“It ends soon. As soon as Max and Iz are out…it’s over."

TBC…

Part 39

Twenty minutes later they were all gathered at the new Valenti’s house Kyle was following his dad’s directions and going through his den for binoculars and other handy spy gear.

Maria and Ava were in their room pulling out clothes and Serena would change them into something completely different from what any of the teens would usually wear.

Liz was sitting on the couch downstairs staring blankly ahead of her, but Alex who brought coffee in from the kitchen realized she was once again trying to reach Max and tried his best not to disturb her as he placed her coffee cup across from her.

He looked up when Michael and Zan joined him, both of them looking much different from their normal appearances. Alex couldn’t help but chuckle, “Nice disguises guys. Let me guess, Maria?”

Both of them just glared, Zan snatching up Liz’s ignored coffee cup before falling into the chair across from the others.

Serena entered a moment later with a big pile of clothes. She tossed a few to both Michael and Zan who looked apprehensive at the outrageous outfits, but really didn’t have a choice if they didn’t want to get caught.

“Ava’s helping Kyle get the stuff and Maria’s making more coffee. You guys should go change. You’ll be heading out soon on the first shift.”

Without another word both Zan and Michael got up. Serena reaching over and taking Liz’s coffee that Zan abandoned.

“Still no answer from Kal?” Alex pried gently.

Serena shook her head as she sipped the coffee.

“Bastard probably is screening his calls.”

“I thought you like him?”

Serena grimaced, “I do. For awhile Kal was the only family I had, but he didn’t want this life for me. He sure as hell didn’t want it for himself. It’s not surprising that he would do whatever possible to stay out of it now. Besides I’m sure he thinks we can handle this without his help.”

“Can’t we?”

“Yeah, it’d just be nice to have a little backup. Someone with the same skill and knowledge as Nasedo. You know?”

Alex didn’t get a chance to respond as Kyle ambled into the room, his arms loaded down with binoculars and night vision goggles, a telescope, and if Alex wasn’t mistaken the same hidden camera they once used to bug the Harding Residence, only there were about five of them now.

Impressed Alex picked one up as Ava explained, “Jim said we could set them up outside the house if we could safely get close enough. Hopefully something useful would be caught on them.”

Zan and Michael came back into the room at about the same time followed closely by Maria who had the tray filled with the coffee pot and extra mugs.

She couldn’t help but snicker a little at how uncomfortable they both looked. Zan just glared at Serena, “Is this revenge for saying you don’t get first shift until we made sure it was safe.”

Serena smiled back and Liz’s eyes snapped open, “It’s not working!”

“Chill Liz, we know where they are Zan and Michael are going out soon and hopefully we’ll learn something new.” Ava squeezed her shoulder reassuringly.

Serena nodded, “I’ll start on the maps with Alex, Maria, and Liz’s help while you guys are out. Hopefully we’ll have the whole house, especially if Ava can get those blueprints from the library.”

Kyle added, “At the very least we can find the quickest, easiest escape routes from every room in the house.”

“We should go then. It will be too late soon for people to be out so…”

Ava kissed Zan hard on the lips, “You better come back if ya know what’s good for ya.” Zan nodded smirking at her threatening sapphire gaze.

Michael wrapped his arms around Maria as she buried her face into his chest. “Don’t worry Ria, I’ll be back too.”

She brought her green eyes to meet his fierce brown ones, “I know,” smiling before kissing him softly.

Zan pulled Serena from the couch hugging her and whispering in her ear, “If we’re not back in…” he didn’t know what kind of time frame, but he knew what she’d have to do, “get the others to safety and just call Kal okay?”

Serena nodded her head to reassure him, not exactly sure yet if she would listen. As Zan opened the front door, Serena called out, “Wait, this doesn’t work.”

Zan sighed and Michael blew out a frustrated breath, “Serena we went over this twice already it’s the best plan.”

“No, it’s actually a really stupid plan.”

Now the others were dumbfounded, “He doesn’t need Ava or me. Michael can’t go.”

Michael opened his mouth outraged but Serena cut him off, “No, Michael this is serious. Your connection to the Granilith, you can’t go on a re-con mission and risk being caught too. Liz said Nasedo mentioned company, but you’re the only real company Nasedo would need to make Khivar happy.”

Michael looked at Zan and Ava, but could see they had already agreed with her. They had figured with his powers it’d be the safest option, but neglected the worse case scenario. If he was captured all possibility of a rescue would be gone because Nasedo wouldn’t be sticking around once Michael was captured. He waved a hand shortening the longer hair he had taken on and returning it to his natural color as he eliminated the facial hair as well.

“I think Ava should go then, she might have a chance at getting in Nasedo’s head and then Zan can get close enough to place the cameras.”

The others looked surprised that he so easily conceded, “What we’re doing this the smart way right? I’ll go to the library instead.”

Ava ran off to change and disguise herself as Michael sulked to a bathroom to put his normal clothes back on.

“Quick thinking Serena.”

Serena shrugged still unsure of their plans thus far. “Michael’s really the only one out of the four of us that Nasedo needs. The three of us would just be an added bonus, what you said about getting to safety made me think of it.

Everyone jumped when the house phone suddenly rang shrilling into the mostly quiet house.

Kyle being closest house member to the phone picked it up, “Yeah…I mean hello. Oh hi Amy. “

He turned bright red and the others couldn’t help but chuckle as Kyle continued to nod his head and mumble words of agreement and understanding. Finally letting out a long breath as he hung up the phone he turned to Maria, “Your mom sends her love and she said they’re on the next flight back,” turning now to everyone, “so they’ll be back sometime tomorrow afternoon to help.”

“They didn’t have to do that.”

“Yeah they did it’s the Sheriff and Ms. DeLuca. You don’t mess with their kids.” Michael rubbed the back of his head at the phantom pains of a newspaper. Maria giggled, kissing his cheek as he sat next to her.

Ava bounced back into the room with long brown hair swirling around dressed like a bag lady, “Let’s go do this.”

Zan followed her out the door and the others were left to their thoughts until they too moved on to their own tasks.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The unbearable pain had returned, pounding at the back of her skull, echoing throughout her body. Isabel peeked her eyes open trying to find out if she was alone or not. When she heard movement above her she sighed in relief and tried to sit up a little more using her hands. Feeling the back of her head, her hand came back sticky with dried blood.

Isabel cringed, but at least it wasn’t still bleeding. It couldn’t be too deep then despite the ache. Looking around she tried to get her eyes to adjust to the darkness, but it was hopeless. She held out her hand and concentrated on making them glow. It was one of the first things she and Max had discovered they could do and it really didn’t take much.

At least she hadn’t thought so at the time, but after trying for a good twenty minutes, granted Isabel didn’t realize it was that long, she finally gave up and wiped the perspiration from her forehead. If she couldn’t make her hands glow her chances of dream-walking one of the others or telepathing them a message was really hopeless.

And wracking her brain for another idea only increased her pain. She looked at her hands once again, barely making them out in the darkness that surrounded her.

Nothing was hopeless.

Certainly not yet anyway.

Isabel was so focused on trying to make her hands light up for even the briefest of moments that when the door above her slammed shut angrily and she was startled with fear.

It sparked something insider her though, something swirling and struggling within her core. Isabel felt it and a moment later her hand glowed softly for only a second, but it was all the encouragement Isabel needed.

Instead of trying to get her hand to glow she concentrated on that swirling she felt within her, knowing that it was only a matter of time before Nasedo returned, probably with another injection to dampen her powers.

Now was her chance.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Upstairs Max remained unaware of his surroundings. Unaware of the pain.

Unaware of everything except that small piece of something that was reaching out to him lovingly, trying to embrace him and protect him.

Max didn’t know what it was exactly he was in need of protection from, but with everything in him, which wasn’t much at this point, he reached back.

Contact was brief and fleeting, but it awakened a part of Max that until then was unaware and deep within him, in his unconscious body a struggle began deep within his core. Slower because of all his injuries and his unawareness of that swirling, but it was there nonetheless surging forward each time Max made fleeting contact with that something special that was constantly reaching for him.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Michael crept up to the front door of the library having already disconnected all the surveillance camera and the alarm. He looked back down the street once and then clicked the door unlocked before slipping through the doors.

It was only a little passed eleven after all so Michael traveled through the library in darkness just in case somebody walked by on the street and would notice.

Getting the Sheriff’s office called would be really bad right now, especially since Valenti wasn’t there. The light from the street lamps outside provided more then enough light for his advanced alien senses as he sneaks around one row of books to the stair case and heads up to the third floor towards the back.

“Blueprints, blueprints blueprints…” Muttering under his breath Michael eventually finds what he’s looking for and gets out of the library as quietly and as unnoticed as he got in.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Outside the Harding residence, Ava and Zan barely have time to hide as Nasedo storms down the side walk from the front door.

They wait at the end of the block watching in disbelief as he drives away.

“Is this a trap?” Ava whispers into Zan’s ear.

“It’s a chance.”

“We can’t go in and get them. Who knows when he’ll get back and it’s not doing the smart thing.”

“Who gives a shit about the smart thing Max and Isabel…”

“Zan not yet, let’s go place the cameras.”

Sighing Zan follows his girlfriend, dressed like a bag lady and hopes nobody sees them because currently they make quite a pair.

“I’ll go around back you say out here. You look less like you need someplace to sleep for the night.”

Without another word Ava’s gone. Zan looks through the few windows on the first floor. Not seeing anything of relevance to them he places only one camera at the window before stepping back a few feet and focusing on the camera in his hand until it drifts up to the second story window. He repeats this process a second time before meeting Ava at the back to see her doing the same thing.

Almost fifteen minutes have passed since Nasedo stormed away and Zan doesn’t want to risk any more time trespassing around the Harding residence, “Let’s get out of here.”

As they turn down the other end of the block, heading back towards the Valenti’s, Nasedo in his car turns back onto the block from the opposite way just missing their retreating forms.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“These maps look really good. I doubt Nasedo’s been around enough or even concerned with furnishing the place so I’m sure it looks the same as the last time you guys were there too.” Serena tried to smile reassuringly.

Not buying it Kyle moved them on to the next detail, “We know where Max is but what about Isabel?”

“Can’t Liz…?” Maria trailed off because Liz was already shaking her head negatively. “I don’t think I’m close enough to Isabel and we’ve never formed a connection before so…”

“But I have.” Alex spoke up suddenly.

“What?” Confusion filled Liz’s brown eyes.

“Serena could Liz connect with me first and then do the same thing she did with Max, but to Isabel?”

She looked hesitant, “Probably, but she’s really new with her powers I wouldn’t want her to hurt herself.”

Liz didn’t even hear most of Serena’s sentence, after the probably she had gotten up to join Alex on the couch where he was sitting.

“I feel very useless.” Maria mumbled under her breath. Kyle squeezed her hand in comfort, “I hope I get a cooler power.”

Maria smiled at his comment, “Thought you don’t want any of the Samantha-Jeannie alien thing?”

For a moment the reference was completely lost on Kyle, eventually though he picked up on the general meaning and answered, “I don’t. But if it’s gonna happen anyways…I want something cooler then visiting the Evans siblings while they’re in peril.”

“You want an offensive power.”

“Wouldn’t you.”

Maria shrugged, “Never really though about it.”

“I find that hard to believe.”

“Why’s that?”

“You’ve known about the aliens for way longer then I have at some point you’ve had to imagine what it’d be like to be able to do some of the stuff they can.”

Maria laughed, “Why because you have.” Kyle’s blush was answer enough.

“What’s with the freaking out earlier then?”

Kyle sighed, “Its one thing to imagine it. It’s a whole other thing for it to be real you know?”

“Can you two hush I can’t really do this if I’m distracted.”

“Liz I don’t think you should be trying this.”

Liz opened her eyes and glanced first at her hand holding Alex’s before meeting Serena’s worried eyes.

“I have to try.”

Liz closed her eyes for the umpteenth time that night and the others fell silent.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

By the time Isabel had summoned the energy she was able to alter the molecular structure of the chains that were restraining her feet. They looked identical, but Isabel knew a simple tug would break them and she’d be free. Even if Nasedo managed to inject her with the serum again it wouldn’t matter because Isabel was that much closer to escape.

It was the best she could hope for right now.

She gathered that the basement she was in was completely empty except for the water heater and the staircase leading upstairs, but that was all she had time for before the front door opened again and two seconds later Liz Parker was standing in front of her, semi-transparent.

“Liz.”

The harsh whisper drew Liz’s attention to the other end of the darkened room.

“Shh, Iz where are you?”

Isabel glanced towards the stairs, but hearing Nasedo ascending the other stairs towards where she assumed Max was she held up her hand as it glowed a soft blue hue.

Liz rushed over and sat by Isabel.

“Are you okay?”

Isabel nodded, “How are you doing this?”

“I’m different now. And Alex is helping. We’re working on a way to get you both out of here.”

“I don’t have my powers. Nasedo injected us with the serum that Pierce used.”

“No powers?” Liz paled.

“Not from Max or me no. And I’m pretty sure Max is unconscious.”

Liz nodded and answered Isabel’s confused looked, “I saw him earlier. He doesn’t look very good that’s why we have to hurry.”

“I was able to alter the chains. I can get free once you guys get here okay?”

“Alright Isabel, I should go.” Both of them listened for a moment as the footsteps overhead started descending and getting closer.

“Thanks Liz.”

Liz smiled, “Hang on for just a little bit longer Izzie.”

Before Iz could respond the door at the top of the stairs opened and Liz was gone.

TBC…

Part 40

Alex gasped for breath as Liz opened her eyes and released his hand from her grip. “She’s in the basement.”

Serena’s mouth dropped open a little surprised that it worked.

“Who’s in the basement?” Michael asked as he closed the front door behind him.

“Isabel.” Alex caught his eye.

“Oh…I got the blueprints.” Handing them to Serena he squeezed into the couch next to Maria as Kyle vacated it and started to walk around the room.

“Now what then? We know where they are; chances are Nasedo isn’t going to leave them alone. So when do we go in and get them?”

Serena unrolled the blueprints ignoring Kyle’s question. None of the others seemed to have an answer either.

“Shouldn’t Zan and Ava be back by now?” Maria’s concern for her friends was reflected in the others gazes as they too looked towards the door.

“Nah, the Hardings is further then the library and they were on foot. Plus they’re supposed to try and drop the cameras.”

Alex stood. “I should set up my computer.”

Michael frowned, “Will it work from here, last time we had to set up at that abandoned building.”

“I can see how close we need to be to pick up the frequency. Plus maybe Zan could do something with that electric power thing he has going.”

Just then the door opened, “Speak of the devil and he shall appear.”

Kyle chuckled at his own joke while the others as usual ignored him.

With the wave of his hand Zan return to his normal self and sighed in relief, “We got the cameras in place. We got lucky, Nasedo was leaving just as we showed up.”

“Did you put any by a basement window?”

Ava looked at Zan to check before answer, “There were no basement windows, but we put them all on the second story, hopefully one of them will have them on it. Why the basement?”

“That’s where Isabel at.”

“She can get out too.” Liz relayed to the others, “Nasedo injected them with the serum, but Isabel said she was able to alter the molecular structure enough to get free once we show up.”

“That’s helpful.”

“We should get some rest.”

The other turned to Serena most in shock, some outraged.

“We’ll be no good to Max and Isabel if we’re dead on our feet and I can tell you we aren’t going in there tonight. We’ll make a plan tomorrow and got in at sun down.”

“But…”

“We’re doing this the smart way remember?"

“You do realize none of us are actually going to be able to sleep.”

“We should at least try.”

With very little further disagreement the teens all started to spread out throughout the DeLuca-Valenti house no plans of going home that night, or rather morning by this time.

As it was many of the teens were able to fall asleep rather quickly.

Liz used a lot of energy trying to contact Max and then Isabel. Michael too fell asleep much sooner then he thought because of his body’s need to recover from the injuries inflicted earlier in the night. Zan was zapped from healing Michael. The stress of it all pulled Serena under shortly too, so she was sound asleep. Tucked safe in their boyfriends loving embraces and knowing tomorrow would be a start fresh to save their friends, Maria and Ava were eventually able to sleep. It wasn’t long before Alex could hear Kyle’s snores either.

But Alex couldn’t sleep and watched as the sun slowing started to ascend in the sky hoping that it would be the start of the last day he had to spend without Isabel.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The plans weren’t really all that planned out. It was hard to make a plan when dealing with Nasedo. Who really knew what he would do?

Despite both Michael and Zan’s protest it would be Serena and Ava who went in first.

Zan argued that they were the ones with the offensive powers.

Michael argued that he’d actually been in the house before when Tess was still around, before Future Isabel.

Ava argued back that her offensive power was just as useful.

Serena pointed out that Nasedo wouldn’t hesitate to kill Zan. He already had a king. And if he got his hands on Michael, there really was no predicting what would happen. As far as they knew he would disappear with the three of them and the others would never see their friends again.

So their plan, that wasn’t all that much of a plan, involved Ava sneaking into Nasedo’s mind allowing them to enter the house without him noticing. If that worked Michael and Zan would then come in after Serena, Zan going for Max since he was unconscious and Michael heading to the basement for Isabel since they knew she was most consciously and unhurt.

Despite Liz’s show of powers the humans agreed with the others that this time it would be better if they stayed out of it. Well, as out of it as they could remain while they were the get away drivers. Maria and Kyle in the Jetta with Liz and Alex driving Serena’s car.

With the sun just beginning to sink under the horizon they were on their way to the Harding residence. Both cars quiet in fear and uncertainty of the unknown.

Stopping a block short of the Harding’s place Maria pulled over and saw Serena slid out. After a quick kiss Maria found Michael following after her. Ava and Zan were just a step behind them and as they neared the house Ava let go of Zan’s hand pulling forward to walk with Serena as Michael fell back a step. Not liking the plan, but knowing it had its merits.

“It’ll be okay Maria.” Looking into the rearview mirror she managed a smile for him.

“Thanks Kyle.” He shrugged before getting out of the car and leaning against the passenger door watching the others get further away.

Liz and Alex sat in the jeep, Alex having climbed into the front to hold Liz’s hand as they waited, not so patiently,for their soul mates to be returned to them.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ava was already trying to get into Nasedo’s head, trusting Serena to guide her in the right direction. As she felt herself slip inside his dark scattered thoughts she squeezed Serena’s hand to signal her. It was perfect timing as they just reached the front door. Serena held up a hand as Michael reached around her to unlock the door with a single wave of his hand. Cautiously, they entered and immediately Zan broke off and headed up the staircase that was directly to the left of the door. Counting the doors from the stairs he quickly saw the room Max was in, was the only one with the door closed.

Serena and Ava continued to creep into the house with Michael right behind them.

Ava faltering slightly as the flickering abyss of Nasedo’s mind swirled around her quickly draining her energy. Without realizing it she pulled energy from Michael as he dropped a hand on her shoulder before slipping into the kitchen beyond Nasedo, who was staring at the wall, to the basement stairs.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Isabel looked up when the door creaked open and she exhaled her breath as she recognized Michael’s form coming down the stairs.

She went to yank herself loose until she remembered how foolish that would be when dealing with a shape-shifter.

Watching him hesitantly and slightly mistrustful she waits to see what ‘Michael’ will do as he gets closer and lowers his hand towards her.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Upstairs Zan’s hand hovers over Max’s prone form, pouring forth healing energy. Working first to dissolve the serum so Max’s body will be able to help in the rest of the healing process. With Max’s system cleared of the toxic Zan’s starts in on the deep gash on his head before moving to his wounded chest. He can feel Max’s powers assisting him even though he’s still unconscious.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

When Serena feels her powers begin to be pulled from her she gently released Ava’s hand knowing she might need her powers and they can’t be going into the mind-warp. She regrets it as soon as Ava takes in a sharp breath and squints her eyes closed even tighter if possible. Her porcelain skin losing the little color Ava did have as moisture begins to gather on her forehead.

Watching Nasedo, Serena sees his eyes flicker for a moment before he turns and looks directly at her. Awareness filling his immoral gaze before he tilts his head in concentration for a moment. Serena chances a flicker of a glance at Ava before turning back to him.

“The Queen should be careful. She might end up trapped in there.” Nasedo taps the side of his head indicated that despite his awareness Ava was still attempting to warp him.

Serena gulped not hearing movement above her or below her indicating that help was on the way.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“I’m gonna go…”

“Kyle?”

“Don’t worry, I’m just gonna get closer in case they need help getting Max or Isabel to the cars. I promise I’ll stay outside, out of sight.”

“Kyle.”

“Ria, trust me.”

Knowing she couldn’t convince him to stay and trying to go with him wouldn’t help anyone, Maria sighs giving up on trying to keep him next to her.

“Be careful.”

Kyle nods before following the steps Serena, Ava, Zan, and Michael had taken no more then ten minutes ago.

When he gets to the house Maria sees him duck around the side before he disappears from view.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Liz?”

“Shush.”

“You’re still trying to contact Max? You haven’t been able to all day.”

“I can feel him Alex. He needs me.”

“I’m not doubting that. I’m just saying maybe you should give your powers a rest. You are new at this.”

“He’s reaching out for me Alex, I can feel it. And I’m not gonna try to stop reaching him until he’s safe.”

“Okay Liz, I’ll be quiet.”

She squeezed his hand briefly before turning back to her inner focus on Max.

Moments later she was inhaling sharply as she felt their souls brush together, the explosion of euphoria that followed from both, locked their souls together.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

It continued to swirl deep within his core faster now that the serum was gone from his system somehow. He could feel his body humming with energy. Healing energy that was quickly mending his injuries leaving him no time to reflect how much they hurt before they were already gone. Then their was that little something extra pulling away from him, but at the same time reaching towards him. It grew stronger as the swirl of energy built and the healing energy tapered off. The instant he came into contact with it his eyes snapped open to be met with the concern amber gaze identical to his own.

“Creepy.”

Zan smirked, having to agree as Max slowly sat up.

“You okay?”

“Um..hmm… yea. Thanks. Where’s Liz.”

Zan rolled his eyes, “Safe, outside.”

“The others?”

“Not so safe, downstairs.”

“We should help them out.”

“Yeah, we should. If you’re up for it?”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Isabel pulled back flinching until she felt the chain around her dissolve into nothingness.

“Michael?”

“Isabel.”

“Prove it.”

Michael held back from growling at her knowing she was just being cautious. He tried to think of something Nasedo wouldn’t be able to tell Isabel before an even better idea came to him.

*I think you should try that whole leather thing Future Isabel had going on. Alex would lose it*

Isabel’s relief was palpable as she lunged at Michael in a hug. Nasedo may be able to look like anyone but no way could he duplicate her powers. Only Michael could do that.

“Thank god. Let’s get the hell out of here.”

Michael smirked leading her to the stairs in the dark.

“Michael…”

“Hmm…?”

“Do you really think that Alex would appreciate the leather look?”

Michael tensed cringing at the idea of his sister and Whitman.

“It was a joke Iz.”

She couldn’t help, but smile at how horrified he looked. “I know.”

Laughing softly they both walked up the stairs as Max and Zan came down the stairs all of them meeting at the same time only to find Nasedo leaned up against the wall blocked in the corner by Serena’s blue shield.

Ava looking slightly dazed as she blinked slowly after extricating herself form Nasedo’s mind.

“You okay Aves?”

She nodded as Zan wrapped an arm around her waist to support her shaking frame.

Isabel and Max hugged briefly before turning their attention to Nasedo who smiled from behind the shield.

“How long could you hold that Serena?”

Shrugging Serena responded, “Depends.”

“On?”

Nasedo cackled, “Whether I do this or not.”

Holding up an arm Serena swore as he released a wave of his energy into her shield.

Michael dropped a hand on Serena’s shoulder allowing his energy to flow into her causing Nasedo to curse this time.

Isabel frowned, “What do we do with him? The second Serena lets the shield down he’s gonna start blasting.”

They tried to ignore Nasedo’s laughter as they scrambled their brains for an idea of what they should do next.

Serena more relaxed with the steady flow of energy coming from Michael for the shield.

“The Granilith?”

It was Ava’s suggestion as she clutched at Zan, knowing it would be a long time before she cleansed herself of the scent of evil that had invaded her being from Nasedo’s mind.

Nasedo’s eyes narrowed at them, before his eyes widened suddenly in fear drawing their focus on Nasdeo.

He opened his mouth as if to scream, but before any sound escape he simple vanished from behind the shield.

None of them moved or said a word.

Eventually Serena dropped her shield.

“What just happen?” Max looked back and forth in confusion from the corner where Nasedo used to stand to Serena who was lowering her hand hesitantly in case he somehow returned.

“I think it was Khivar.”

“Khivar just what… teleported….Nasedo back to Antar?” The disbelief was heavy in Zan tone followed closely by anger.

“Larek did say Khivar wasn’t pleased with him.” Ava’s announced it slowly her mind still distracted with the cluttered flickerings of hate and spite from Nasedo’s mind.

Max sighed exhausted and ready to sleep for a week, “Let’s get out of here. I think we’ve at least heard that last of Nasedo.”

“For now…” Michael said ominously.

“You don’t think Khivar will let him live do you?” Isabel highly doubted it based on what Larek had told them.

“Probably. He saved him from us so he could use him later.” Serena, more then any of them realized, knew the inner workings of Khivar’s mind. Unfortunately.

“Max is right though we should get out of here.”

Leaving through the back door in the kitchen the all stopped behind Isabel who had come to a halt at the sight of Kyle crouched low in the bushes.

“Kyle?”

He jumped forward and smiled sheepishly.

“I was ready…Just in case. With my…magic.”

Isabel and Max looked at the others in confusion, but they were too caught up in their own laughter to respond.

“Kyle how would magic tricks have been helpful?” Isabel’s befuddled features had the others only laughing harder as Serena just shook her head taking the lead and directing them back to the cars.

"I'll explain later sis."

As they were still laughing they turned the corner of the house and were back out front visible to the three still in the cars.

Liz was the first one out of the two cars, but Alex with his longer strides reached all of them first, crushing Isabel in his arms as Liz practically tackled Max to the ground. Maria skipped over happily behind them

“Mom just called, she and Jim are back and waiting at home with pizza for us.”

“Good, I’m starved.”

“Kyle you’re always starved.” Maria couldn’t help but poke Kyle in the gut as she commented.

His eyes flickered, but he didn’t respond. Max beat him too it, “I’m famished too and pizza sounds really amazing right now.”

“I’m sure anything sounds really amazing after a whole day being spent held captive.” Liz pointed out logically.

Isabel rolled her eyes, “Please, Max slept through the whole thing. Probably didn’t even notice what was going on…”

“And what about us,” Zan pointed out, “We had to go and rescue these fools after they got themselves captured.”

Rolling her eyes Maria pulled her phone back out as the others continued to bicker harmlessly continuing towards the cars, “Yeah mom, you think you can get a few more pizzas I think it’s gonna be one of those nights. Thanks, you’re the best.”

Fortunately the cars were much more crowded as they headed back towards the DeLuca-Valenti house then they were on the way over to the Harding residence. Nobody said a word of complaint though, they were all grateful for that fact.

TBC…