Dust on the wind (UC,K/A,Z/L,MATURE) [COMPLETE]

[kerri240879]

Title: Dust on the wind.
Author: Kerri.
Category: Zan/Liz Kyle/Ava
Rating: MATURE for violence and sexual content.
Disclaimer: All characters of Roswell belong to The WB, Melinda Metz and UPN.
Summary: Lives are shattered when two are lost to the close group, and they struggle to come to terms with their pain, only to find out that the dust on the wind was still blowing.
Feedback: Yes please.



Part 1:

Maria smiled as she buzzed around the Crash Down, excited about the night’s coming festivities. Sliding an order through the kitchen window she gave Michael a quick smile, laughing when he glanced quickly around, before blowing her a kiss. Leaning against the counter as she looked over the crowded dinner.

Isabel was teasing Alex, while Max and Tess looked on, both grinning as Alex shrugged, before pulling Isabel into his arms for a firm kiss. The blonde alien blushed, before smiling happily. They had finally sorted out their issues at the prom the week before, and were now firmly in a relationship. Maria smiled as she watched them, knowing it had taken them a long time to finally decide they wanted to be together.

Jim Valenti was at the counter, waiting for Kyle and Liz to arrive. They were out picking up supplies for the party that was happening that night. It was Liz’s eighteenth birthday, and a major party had been planned at the school gym. It needed to be held there due to Liz’s popularity, what with half the school going.

Jeff Parker was in his office trying to get the paperwork done, due to said party. He had told Maria that in all the years that he’d owned the Crash Down, this was the first night that they’d be closed. He wasn’t missing his baby girl’s birthday. Jeff had shown Maria what he had gotten Liz for her birthday, Maria giving it the thumbs up. A pair of diamond studs, Maria only slightly green with envy.

The bell over the door tinkled, Maria looking up to see Deputy Owen enter the restaurant. He was pale, his hat clenched tightly in his fist as he spotted Jim. He walked across the room slowly, speaking softly in Jim’s ear. “I need to see you and Jeff in private a minute Sheriff” he said. Jim looked at him oddly, before following Owen into Jeff’s office, shutting the door behind them.

Maria watched as Own spoke quietly, his eyes lowered to the floor. Jeff Parker stumbled suddenly, sitting in his chair hard, his face deathly pale. Tears started streaming down his face as he covered his mouth. Jim paled as well, bending from the waist as he started crying, his body visibly shaking as he slid to the floor. Owen swallowed hard, before kneeling down beside the Sheriff.

By this stage everyone was watching the office, Maria edging towards the firmly shut door, fear skittering down her spine. She opened it slowly, the harsh sobs echoing through out the silent dinner. “Mr Parker, what is it?” she whispered. Jeff could only wave his hand, Owen turning to face Maria. He ushered her out of the office, shutting the door behind him, the sounds of pain and grief still echoing in everyone’s ears.

Michael came up behind Maria, his hands gripping her shoulders tightly. Isabel, Max, Alex and Tess joined them, all tense with fear. Alex slid his arm around Isabel, Max automatically taking Tess’s hand. Owen cleared his throat noisily, raising his eyes to the waiting group of friends. He blinked before he finally started to speak.

“There was an accident on 285 south. Witness’s said the car swerved to avoid a coyote, the driver loosing control. The car rolled down the embankment, killing the occupants instantly. The bodies were identified as those of Kyle Valenti and Elizabeth Parker.”


Part 2:

The viewing room was oddly quiet, concidering that there were seven people in it. Everyone gathered at the door, waiting to confirm that the bodies were indeed those of their friends. Jim had offered to do the viewing for Jeff, who readily agreed, unable to leave his wife’s side, unable to see the scene that awaited them.

Michael tightened his grip around Maria’s waist as the first gurney was wheeled into the room, a white sheet covering the body that lay there stiffly. The second gurney appeared a few seconds later, the morgue attendants moving to the top of each one. They looked at Jim, who was taking deep breaths, trying to control his nausea. He nodded once, his life collapsing as the first sheet was slowly pulled down.

Kyle lay on his back, his face white under the harsh lights. His hair was wet, from where they had washed the blood away. Jim knew it was procedure to do that, and he found himself fascinated with the way the wet strands glistened. There was an ugly bruise running from his neck, down across his chest where the seat belt had pulled tightly across his body.

Jim watched as a hand came into sight, small and pale. Tess touched Kyle’s face gently, her hand shaking as she felt how cold his skin was. Tess started shaking uncontrollably, Jim drawing her into the tight circle of his embrace as she turned from the sight before her. Tess burst into tears against his chest, her body shaking as he held her so she wouldn’t collapse.

Reaching out, Jim slowly stroked Kyle’s cheek, feeling the prickle of stubble under his fingers as he brushed them across the cool skin. He stared at the bruise that ran along his son’s chest in wonder, before nodding slowly. “It’s him,” he whispered. The attendant recovered Kyle, before uncovering the other body. Liz lay on her back as well, a matching bruise marring her beauty. Her hair was also wet, yet they couldn’t hide the large gash in her temple, the bruise darkening the side of her face.

Maria dropped to her knees, sobbing when she caught sight of Liz, her brown eyes open and unseeing. The sparkle in them was gone, the light extinguished forever. Liz’s expressions were always mirrored in her eyes, whether it was laughter or anger. You could always tell by just looking into her eyes. Now there was nothing.

Jim nodded again, the group watching as Liz was hidden from view. The silent attendants wheeled the bodies away, Jim following to fill the paperwork out. Tess went with him, neither of them unable to release the other person. They just shuffled along, tears streaming down their cheeks silently. The room remained silent, except for the hash sounds of grief coming from Maria. Alex pulled her to her feet, turning her away as they walked down the corridor, their grief uniting them in strength. The doors swung shut behind them, the clang echoing in all their hearts.


Part 3:

Maria stood there silently, Michael’s arm wound tightly around her slender waist. Lifting her head slightly, she took in the sight before her. Liz lay nestled in a bed of white satin, her dark hair curling around her face. Her hair hid the ugly gash on her temple, giving the illusion of sleep. Her hands were clasped at her waist, the skin slightly translucent.

Maria smiled sadly when she saw that Liz was wearing the dress from prom, the dark blue satin sombre in the pale light of day. A silver chain was wound around her fist, the silver crucifix gleaming against her dress. “She’s so tiny Michael. Almost doll like” Maria whispered. Michael glanced down at Maria in concern, noting the strain and fatigue on her pale face.

He watched as Maria extended her hand, noticing the faint tremble as she placed a single white rose in the coffin, before bending to brush her lips over her friend’s cheek for the last time. “I love you Liz. It was meant to be you and me chicka, dust on the wind as we hightailed it out of here” she whispered, a single tear sliding down her face as she moved onto the next coffin.

Kyle was dressed in a black suit, his hair neatly parted, his hands also clasped. Maria noticed that Tess had placed a red rose in his hands, her pale lip-gloss shimmering on his lips from where she had kissed him good-bye. Leaning forward, Maria kissed Kyle’s forehead, stifling a sob as she felt his skin, cold as ice under her lips as she pulled away.

Michael led her to her seat, keeping his arm wrapped tightly around her as he also sat down. A cool gust of wind swept the room as the doors were suddenly opened, causing Maria to shiver in his embrace as she turned her head to see who had entered the tiny chapel. Her eyes opened in surprise as a girl walked down the centre isle, Maria recognising her immediately.

Ava still dressed as a punk, her black leather skirt brushing black fish net stockings, along with black army boots, and a black long sleeved top. Her hair was still streaked, the blonde curls resting on her shoulders as she made her way towards the coffins, two single white roses clenched in her fist.

A soft murmur of surprise swept the pod squad and their human friends, all watching as Ava walked first to Kyle’s coffin, brushing a stray strand of hair off his face, before moving on to Liz’s coffin. She stood there silently, before dropping both roses into the coffin, her face grim as she spoke softly.

“I’m sorry Liz. Ya a good friend, and I ain’t got too many of them. I’ll see ya in da next life. That ya can be sure of girl.” Ava leant forward, brushing her lips over Liz’s, before straightening up. Turning around, she walked silently to Maria, pausing when the other girl looked up at her. A small flash caught Maria’s eye, Maria watching in silence as Ava dropped a thin silver pendent into her hand. “I’m sorry it has to be this way,” she whispered, before hurrying out of the chapel. Maria glanced down, biting a sob back when she saw what Ava had handed her.

The thin silver chain was broken, the silver heart slightly bent. It had an M engraved on one side, an L on the other. In her hand was the best friend charm she had given Liz for Christmas the previous year. Jeff cleared his throat, Maria lifting her head as the service began, keeping the pendent clenched tightly in her fist, her final link to the past.

Part 4:

Max slumped in the hard auditorium chair, his face lined with grief. Michael sat beside him, his fingers laced tightly through Isabel’s. Tess sat next to Max, dark circle under her eyes. She had spent the past week sleeping in Jim’s bed, unable to stand being in Kyle’s room anymore. Jim had howled his grief out in her arms, as had she in his. The relationship between them was now one of father and daughter, both clinging to it tightly.

Max hadn’t left his room all week, he and Isabel often found by their parents curled up asleep together, united as family in their grief for their lost friends. Michael was found in the double bed three days out of the seven. The rest of his time he spent with Maria and Alex, unable to leave them alone for long either.

The double funerals had taken place the day before, the service closed to all but family and close friends. There was a service being held in school that day, giving closure to students and teachers alike. The school had been cast into darkness, students openly crying in the halls, teachers falling into pits of silence in class.

Maria stood behind the curtain with Alex, her face free of make up, lined with grief and fatigue. She hadn’t gotten any sleep in the past week, spending most of her time with Alex and Michael, working out what to say here today. Turning to face Alex, she nodded silently, watching as the curtains slowly parted, the room packed with people.

Maria lifted the microphone to her mouth, turning to glance at the large portraits of Liz and Kyle, which sat to the side of the stage. Maria paused, looking at the photo of her best friend, a girl she had bonded with over a bird. Alex took over the microphone when she hesitated, speaking softly as he gazed out at the sea of people crammed in the stuffy room.

“We suffered a terrible tragedy one week ago, when the lights were dimmed on two people who were much loved and admired. Maria and I tried to think of something fitting for them, and we came up with the idea of a song. Both Liz and Kyle loved this song, and were often found singing it together. They always said it reminded them of the way our group worked. My immortal, by Evanescence.”

Maria watched as Alex stepped away slightly, nodding to Rick who started playing the opening bars to the song on the piano. She felt something stir with in her, and sought Michael out in the front row. He was right in front of her, giving her a sad smile of encouragement. Lifting the microphone again, she started singing, her voice sending shivers down peoples spines all over the room.

“I’m so tired of being here, suppressed by all my, childish fears.
And if you have to leave, I wish that you would just leave.
Coz your presence still lingers here, and it won’t leave me alone.
These wounds won’t seem to heal,
This pain is just too real,
There’s just to much that time can not erase.”

“When you cried, I’d wipe away all of your tears,
When you’d scream, I’d fight away all of your fears,
And I held your hand through all of these years,
But you still have, all of me.”

“You used to captivate me, by your resonating light,
But now I’m bound by the life you left behind.
Your face it haunts, my once pleasant dreams,
Your voice it chased away, all the sanity in me.
These wounds won’t seem to heal,
This pain is just too real,
There’s just to much that time can not erase.”

“When you cried, I’d wipe away all of your tears,
When you’d scream I’d fight away all of your fears,
And I held your hand through all of these years,
But you still have, all of me.”

The audience watched as Maria closed her eyes, her voice lifting in volume as she pressed her hand over her heart, her pain and grief evident as tears started streaming down her pale cheeks, and she simply gave way, kneeling on the floor as she sang.

“I’ve tried so hard to tell myself that you’re gone,
But though you’re still with me,
I’ve been alone all along.”

Alex stepped forward as Maria sang the last line, nodding as he moved into a guitar rift, showing his grief the only way he knew how. Alex locked eyes with Maria, stepping forward to join her at the microphone as she stood up, lifting his voice with hers as she resumed singing.

“When you cried, I’d wipe away all of your tears,
When you’d scream I’d fight away all of your fears,
And I held your hand through all of these years,
But you still have, all of me.”

Maria opened her eyes to deafening applause, looking at each of her friends in turn. Max was crying silently, Tess doubled over as she sobbed into her hands. Isabel had her head buried in Michael’s shoulder, Michael blinking rapidly to stop himself from crying. Maria locked eyes with Ava suddenly, the blonde punk nodding her head in farewell. Maria was surprised to see her there, watching as she left the room silently. Maria turned to Alex, taking his hand as they left the stage, both satisfied with there not being a dry eye in the room.

Jim left the room, where he had been standing up the back in silence. Wandering out of the school, he walked slowly towards Main Street, wanting to see Jeff Parker, with whom he could openly share his pain and grief. He had also seen Ava, unsure of why she had been there. As he passed the UFO centre, Broadie came walking out.
“Jim, can I see you a minute?” he asked. Jim looked at him with glazed eyes, nodding silently as he followed Broadie into the centre. Broadie locked the door behind them, leading Jim down some stairs. The room was dimly lit, casting shadows over the alien themed room. Jim turned to face Broadie, surprised to see that his eyes were glowing purple in the dim light.

“What can I do for Broadie?” Jim asked warily. Broadie smirked. “Actually it’s Larek, not Broadie. And it’s what I can do for you.” Jim looked at him in confusion, following Larek’s line of sight. One of the shadows moved suddenly, separating and becoming a sold form. Jim felt the world stop moving as a quiet voice drifted out of the shadows. “Hi Dad.”

Part 5:

Jim sagged as Kyle stepped into the dim light, unharmed and alive. He rubbed his eyes, blinking when Kyle continued to walk slowly towards him. Kyle stopped with in arms reach, his face pale and drawn, grief etched across his face. Jim slowly reached out, a tear sliding down his face when he encountered warm, living flesh. His fingers slowly curled around Kyle’s arm, before Jim pulled him quickly into the protective circle of his arms, both of them crying as they stood there hugging.

Jim pulled away a few minutes later, cupping his son’s face in his hands, studying his son carefully. “How?” he whispered, trying desperately to understand. Kyle looked at the floor, knowing what his father had been through, and what was yet to come. He raised his eyes slowly, meeting his father’s steady gaze, yet unable to answer. He looked over his shoulder, Jim gasping as Liz also stepped out of the shadows.

She walked towards Jim slowly, Jim’s breath catching in his throat when he saw her close up. She was still the same beautiful girl, until you looked closer. Liz raised her eyes to Jim, the iris’s an unearthly blue. “Your eye’s” Jim croaked, Liz nodding as he tried to piece the puzzle together, but coming up a few pieces short. He knew Liz’s eyes were normally a dark brown, yet there she stood, with alien eyes…

Liz nodded again when the penny dropped, Jim turning to face his son in disbelief. “When Max healed us Dad, he changed us. Kivar found out, and started making plans to take us into his custody, to use us as pawns against Max and the others. Larek found out, and intervened.” Jim looked between Liz and Kyle, Liz’s face expressionless as she gazed back at him. “When did this start?” Jim asked softly. Kyle looked at the ground again. “Six months ago Dad.”

Jim staggered as Kyle answered him softly, bumping into a wall before sliding to the ground. Liz walked towards him, kneeling in front of him as she spoke for the first time. “Do you remember Ava?.” Jim nodded, looking up as the punked version of Tess entered the room. “It turns out that Zan wasn’t dead, that it had been a mind warp, designed all along to protect Kyle and I. Zan had Lonnie and Rath executed, and their powers stored until we could be woken. I was fully woken two months ago. Kyle’s nearly finished. Maybe a week, no more than that.” Jim stared at her, finally finding his voice. “How could you not tell me?.”

Jim looked at Ava as she knelt down as well, her eyes the same colour as Larek’s, a deep purple. She smiled at him gently, taking his hand in hers. “Ya gotta understand Sheriff. Ya son and Lizzie girl here are part of da bigger picture.” Jim blinked in confusion, Ava locking eyes with him as she spoke again. “They part of da royal four now. Da four bein Zan, Liz, Kyle, and me. We da royal four.” Jim was surprised by the revelation, finding his voice quickly. “I thought Max and the others were the royal four.” Ava shook her head. “On earth they are, but up there, nah, that’s us.”


Jim looked back at Kyle, who stood there quietly. “Why fake your deaths then?” he whispered. Liz sighed. “It’s gonna throw Kivar off our tails for starters, and do ya really think we had any choice Sheriff?. I was already displaying powers, as was Kyle. Larek just helped it along.” Jim touched her face gently. “I saw your bodies.” Liz shook her head. “You saw what we wanted you to see. It had to feel real, for it to be successful. That’s why Ava was at our funerals. To make sure it looked real.”

Jim looked at Larek who sighed. “Given maybe six more months, Liz would have been more powerful than the Roswell set. Twelve months, on level with Ava and Zan. It’s better this way, as they are able to protect themselves now. The Roswell set is 50/50. Zan and Ava 70/30. They were always more alien than human, as Liz is now.”

Jim looked at Kyle in silence. Kyle sat down at his father’s feet, staring at him quietly. “Dad, it was my choice to make. Live here, and die painfully by the hand of an alien, or take up the offer, move to New York, and live as a general, under a King who is twice the man Max Evans is. The choice was easy. It was the deaths that hit home for me. My decision was based on the fact that I could tell you. That way we can keep in touch.”

Jim nodded slowly, trying to absorb what was being told to him. “What about the others?. Can’t you tell them?” he asked softly. Liz shook her head. “When we leave today Sheriff, the old Liz and Kyle are dead anyway. Only you know they were reborn.” Jim looked at Liz, who finally sighed. “Look, there’s a summit meeting in the city in six weeks anyway, and Max will be going. They will all find out then.” Jim stared at her. “I thought you loved Max,” he whispered. Liz smirked. “I did, until I found out he cheated on me with Tess. That killed any love I had for him.”

Jim shook his head again, watching as Liz and Ava stood up, backing away slowly. Kyle stood as well, helping his father to his feet. “Dad, you have to except this.” Jim shook his head, Kyle catching his face easily. “Dad, it’s already done. You buried us remember. We have to stay buried. It’s the only way.” Kyle pressed a piece of paper into his father’s hand. “You can contact me here Dad. I love you. Please understand this.”

Kyle started backing away, Jim grabbing his son quickly. “How is it done?” he pleaded. Kyle looked his father straight in the eye. “The human side is slowly buried, the alien side taking over. Liz has had to wear coloured contacts for the last few months, and we’ve had to keep it quiet that we’d been having sex. It’s the only way we could control it. That’s the other reason Liz broke it off with Max. The alien gets in the blood steam, and your body heats up. We both didn’t want to betray Max, so Liz ended it.”

Jim blinked, looking towards Liz. “Are you together now?” he asked. Kyle shook his head. “Nah, it was just physical. Just great friends having a good time. I’m actually with Ava Dad.” Jim shook his head as Kyle slowly backed away, following his son desperately. “How can you call sex a good time?” he cried.

Liz smirked from the top of the stairs. “The best thing about being changed Sheriff, is you can turn your emotions on and off easily. No worry, no fear, no inhibitions. Makes it easy to walk away. The reason we chose to tell you is because we both knew that you’d go after our deaths like a dog with a bone. Digging until you found the truth. So now you know, don’t dig. Kyle, come on, we gotta go.”

Jim grabbed Kyle, who gently removed his father’s hand from his arm. “I gotta do this Dad. Please. Let me go. I’ll call you next week, when we are settled. You can come up and visit, see how we’re doing, how we’re handling things. Ok?.” Jim nodded, feeling Kyle kiss him quickly, before joining Liz at the top of the stairs, the small brunette facing Jim once more.

“When you come to the city, bring Maria and Alex. They deserve to know the truth, but it has to come from us. Ok?.” Jim nodded once more, his eyes following the pair as they walked out of his life, fear settling in his heart as the door swung shut, a soft click deafening to his ears. Jim gave way to his grief, kneeling on the floor as he sobbed.

Part 6:

The drive to the city was a long one, each person taking it in turn to drive, while the others slept. Ava hadn’t wanted to stop at a motel, knowing that they needed to be in the city to be safe. They arrived three days after leaving Roswell, all of them tired, grumpy, and needing sleep.

Ava turned into the underground car park, killing the engine as she parked. She and Kyle got out of the car, Kyle pushing his seat forward for Liz. Peeking into the back of the car, he grinned when he saw her curled up on the back, her hands tucked under her chin as she slept. Knowing she was grieving for the loss of her friends and family, he simply pulled her into his arms, holding her close as he followed Ava into their new home.

Zan and Ava had been given a three bed roomed loft by Larek, both shocked to know they had the wealth of Antar at their disposal. Ava opened the door, standing aside as Kyle entered first, Liz’s head nestled against his shoulder. Ava shut the door quietly, before glancing around the loft. Three bedrooms, kitchen, lounge room, bathroom, and a balcony overlooked the busy city, the sky in between night and day.

Kyle shifted Liz, smiling when she wrapped her arms around his neck tightly, sighing softly as she settled back down. He glanced at Ava, returning her smile as she gazed at them. “She’s beautiful,” Ava whispered, brushing a stray lock of hair from Liz’s face, looking up at Kyle as she did. “So are you” he whispered, blushing slightly at her happy look.

Ava beckoned, leading Kyle towards the back of the loft. Opening a door, she peeked inside, before pushing it wide open. A king sized bed against the far wall, draped in ivory satin. A tall boy sat against the opposite wall, an ornate dagger resting in a glass cabinet on top.

Ava gestured to the bed, pulling the top sheet back as Kyle laid Liz down. Ava quickly undid the buttons on Liz’s jeans as Kyle pulled her chunky black boots off. He helped Ava tug Liz’s jeans down her long legs, sliding his arm under her shoulders as Ava folded the jeans over the end of the bed. Easing Liz into a sitting position, Kyle tugged her black top off, tossing it to Ava as he laid her back down, her dark hair fanning across the pillow.

Ava watched as Kyle bent over, pressing a soft kiss to her temple as he pulled the sheet up. Liz moaned softly, rolling over to face the wall, the satin sheet tightening under her as she moved. Ava stood beside Kyle as he watched Liz sleep, lacing her fingers through his. Kyle glanced down at her, a soft smile crossing his face.

“You know, she acts like this doesn’t bother her, but I know it does. Not being able to say good bye to Maria and Alex hurt her the most.” Ava tilted his face down to hers, brushing her lips softly over his. Kyle groaned, wrapping his arms tightly around her slender body, pulling her flush against him. Ava looked into his eyes, speaking softly as they gazed at each other. “Come on, you can sleep with me.”

Kyle nodded, letting Ava tug him from the room. He never saw Liz roll onto her back, her blue eyes swimming with tears as he shut the door behind him. The tears spilt over, Liz rolling onto her stomach as she started to cry. She buried her face in the pillows, trying to muffle her harsh sobs as they poured out of her. Her sobs slowly gave way to soft hick up’s, the room falling silent as she fell asleep, keeping her pain buried deep.

In Ava’s room, Kyle lay on his back, Ava’s head resting on his chest as she slept. He had heard Liz crying, but knew better than to go to her. She never showed weakness, and would be mortified if she knew he could hear her.
Kyle felt the twitch in his stomach, stiffening a moan of pain as another change started to take place. Closing his eyes, he steadied his breathing, trying to clear his mind. He fell asleep quickly, keeping his pain buried deep.

Ava opened her eyes as Kyle’s breathing evened out, running the tips of her fingers over his smooth chest lightly. He and Liz had been such a source of strength to her, lending their friendship and support. Zan had been forced to stay in the city, taking care of business with Larek as the other three made the return trip. He hadn’t met Liz or Kyle yet, but they had spoken on the phone, keeping check of what was happening.

Ava knew Zan would want Liz when he met her. Kyle had turned out to be a surprise, taking care of not only Liz, but also opening his arms and his heart to Ava. She had felt bad lying when she had first told them Zan was dead, but the plan had to be followed through. She smiled as she remembered Kyle bringing her a daisy. He told her he wanted to cheer her up. He had done an excellent job of it too. Ava smiled softly, wriggling closer to Kyle as she shut her eyes. The pain she kept buried deep was finally breaking free.


Part 7:

Zan walked towards the loft, a tight feeling in the pit of his stomach that was bugging him no end. Turning the corner, he ran up the front steps, taking them three at a time. He hated the elevator, and as it travelled up to the fourth floor, he muttered under his breath angrily. He hadn’t been able to get in touch with Ava for three days, and he was starting to worry.

Opening the door to the loft, he paused as he entered, sensing a disturbance in the air. He shut the door softly, his powers prickling along his skin as he moved slowly through the place. The hair on the back of his neck stood up, his body tense with adrenalin as he checked each room. He noticed the car keys on the kitchen bench, sagging in relief when he realised Ava was back.

Zan moved quickly to her room, opening the door quietly. He smirked when he saw Ava asleep in Kyle’s arms, her blonde head buried in his shoulder, the blonde hair contrasting with his dark brown. Ava had grown her hair out, the loose blonde curls sitting on her shoulders, the pink and blue streaks still present. She’d removed her lip ring, and replaced the ring in her nose with a stud. As he looked her over, he smiled grimly when he saw the foursquare tattoo was also gone. She’d taken his advice, and gotten rid of it.

Zan looked at Kyle, noticing the occasion flicker of green energy run across his skin. Zan smirked, knowing that Ava would have him punked out in no time, changing him from human cornball to alien punk. He was startled when Kyle opened his eyes suddenly, looking straight at him. Zan smirked as they regarded each other, Zan noticing how Kyle’s eyes were flickering from pale blue to silver grey.

“Yo, get some sleep man. We’ll talk later” he said softly, Kyle nodding silently as he tightened his grip on Ava. Zan noticed and smirked again. Turning around he walked out, pausing as Kyle said his name quietly. Turning around, he looked at his new general, nodding when Kyle spoke again. “I’m not Rath.” Zan raised his eyebrows slightly. “We’ll see” was all he’d say.

Zan continued down the hallway, opening the door of the spare room. He blinked in surprise when he saw the room was empty. He shrugged. Liz was probably getting the lay of the land, seeing how the city went to sleep, and came awake at the same time each day. He wondered what she was like as he continued on to his room. He was mad dog tired, having spent the night walking around his old haunts, checking in with his friends. He opened the door to his room, glancing down as he pulled his wallet from the pocket of his black cargo pants, the chain that was attached clinking as he set it down on his dresser. Turning around, he froze, staring at the sight before him.

Liz was asleep in his bed, her head buried in the pillows. He approached the bed silently, pausing again as she rolled over to face the wall. Zan felt a bolt of desire run through him as the sheet tightened around her body, giving him a preview of what was hidden beneath. He ran his eyes over her body slowly, smirking in satisfaction as he did.

Long slender legs were tangled in the sheet, one knee bent over the other leg. Hips, which were slightly rounded, giving her a curvy silhouette. A small waist, Zan itching to see how far around her waist his hands would go. Smooth olive skin, the colour of warmed honey, the scent of cinnamon teasing his nostrils. Long thick hair that was spread across his pillows like a silk waterfall, an image of melted chocolate springing to mind.

Zan smirked slowly, pulling his tight black tees shirt off, while nudging his heavy black boots off with his feet. He paused as he reached for the buttons on his pants, knowing he never wore any underwear. He shrugged, deciding to leave them on. He knelt on the bed, pulling the sheet free of her body, groaning softly when he saw what she was wearing. Little black cheeky shorts, the curve of each cheek peeking out from under the edge, and a tiny white tank top, the material tight across her slender body.

Zan slid between the sheets, leaning on his elbow as he faced her, pulling the sheet slowly over them. She rolled over in her sleep, instinctively seeking out the warmth of his body. Zan sucked in a deep breath when he saw her face. High cheekbones, a small nose. Delicately arched eyebrows framed almond shaped eyes. Her eyelashes brushed her cheeks as she slept, her face free of make up. Zan let his gaze drift, shutting his eyes when he saw her mouth. Lips made for sin. Full, pouty and soft, made for sucking on. “Damn ya beautiful Liz” he whispered.

Zan sighed, letting his head drop to the pillow as another wave of fatigue swept over him. He sucked in another groan as Liz wiggled closer to him, her small hand creeping across his chest as she snuggled into his warmth. Zan slid his arm over her hip, smirking when she automatically raised her head, allowing him to slide his other arm under her neck. She sighed softly, sliding her knee between his thighs as she settled down, her body soft and pliant in his arms. Zan smirked, and closing his eyes, let sleep claim him.

Part 8:

Liz woke slowly, her mind fuzzy as she stretched, automatically rolling over to face the other way. She realised she wasn’t alone when the bed shifted again, a strong arm sliding around her waist, pulling her against a hard body. The person behind her sighed as they nuzzled their nose into her hair, their breath warm against her neck.

Liz lay there quietly, smiling when soft snores reached her ears. She glanced down, frowning when she saw the tattooed arm. “That’s not Kyle,” she whispered. Twisting slightly under the muscular arm, Liz rolled onto her back trying to ignore the flutter in her stomach when the arm tightened slightly, the fingers on his hand flexing against her ribs. Looking up she caught her first sight of Zan.

Zan was the spitting image of Max in looks, but that’s where the similarities stopped. His thick black hair stood up in spikes, some of the tips coloured magenta. He had a ring in his right eyebrow, and a stud under his full bottom lip. His side burns came to his jaw line in sharp lines, and his goatee had been trimmed.

There was leanness to his face that Max lacked, his cheekbones sharper, the angles in his face more defined. He’d pierced his ear, two hoops in the lobe, and a smaller hoop at the top in the cartridge. His eyelashes were dark smudges against his cheeks, and there was a tick in his jaw, giving Liz the impression that he was guarded, even in sleep.

Liz ran her eyes down his body, taking in more of his appearance. He had a ring of barbed wire tattooed around his left bicep, and an ornate knife on his left forearm, similar to the one on his dresser. The blade was thicker at the top, coming down to a sharp point, the blade engraved with alien symbols. The handle was thick, with a piece of metal coming out slightly from the base of the handle, twisting up to hug the hand when held. A thick piece of leather circled his left wrist, with raised square pieces of metal embedded in the band, and a piece of braided leather above the studded piece. A silver ring glinted on his middle finger, the band engraved with small carvings, and a thicker plain one on his thumb.

Twisting her head, she mentally groaned when she saw his upper body. A short silver chain circled his neck, resting against his collarbones. His shoulders were slightly broader than Max’s, the muscles in his chest and stomach well defined. A V shape was tattooed onto his chest, resting over his heart. It was made up of five small orbs, Liz remembering that Max had told her that he’d seen the symbol in his dreams. Just below the V shape, was a butterfly of sorts. It was black and purple, completely alien to anything she’d seen before.

Liz smiled when she saw it, knowing Ava had one the same at the base of her spine, but on a much larger scale. Ava had said it was an alien symbol, the meaning clear. Something could be small and beautiful, but still be deadly. On earth the butterfly was harmless. On Antar, they were deadly. The colours were those of royalty, the colours of Antar.

Liz lifted Zan’s arm slowly, wiggling carefully from under his grasp. Laying his arm on the bed, she knelt up slowly. She knelt there quietly, smoothening a gasp as he rolled onto his back, before settling down again. There was a matching bracelet to his chain around his right wrist, a plain silver band on his ring finger. She smirked when she saw that he too had gotten rid of the four square tattoo. In its place was an alien shield, the words “Death before Dishonour” engraved on its polished surface. The alien swirl symbol was tattooed on the outside of his right wrist, the swirls thick against his tanned skin.

Glancing out the window near the bed, she saw that it was daylight outside. Liz frowned as she wondered why Zan was in bed with her. Looking around the room, she quickly saw that she was actually in his room, in his bed. Liz bit her lip, before deciding to take a bath. She needed to clear her head. She wiggled down to the end of the bed, rubbing her arms as she picked her jeans up. Glancing around, she found her bag and grabbed some fresh clothes.

Looking up, she saw that Zan had rolled over to face the door, his eyes still shut, his breathing deep and even. Liz stood up, gazing down at him as he slept. Unable to help herself, she reached out, running the tip of her index finger along one of his eyebrows. “You’re beautiful Zan” she whispered, before quietly leaving the room. She never saw him smile as he opened his eyes.

Part 9:

Liz quietly shut the door to Zan’s room, before heading down the hallway. She opened the door to the bathroom, relieved when she saw her new toiletries on the bathroom shelf. With a soft sigh, Liz set her stuff down on the toilet seat, before bending down to put the plug in the bath.

Turning the water on, Liz hummed softly as she pinned her hair to the top of her head, before adding some vanilla scented bath oil to the water. It foamed up, the sweet scent wafting through the room. Stripping her clothes off, she slid into the fragrant water, another sigh escaping her lips as she sank under the bubbles.

Reaching out she grabbed the washcloth from the edge of the bath, adding some scented soap before scrubbing her skin clean. As she scrubbed her shoulders, a soft knock on the door startled her. “Is that you Liz?” Kyle whispered. Liz answered yes softly, smiling as he entered the bathroom. He was holding his stomach, pain flickering across his face as he shut the door.

Liz sat up in the warm water, holding her hand out to him. Kyle smiled gratefully, shedding his boxer shorts quickly, before sliding into the bath in front of Liz. She scooted back so he could wet his hair, the ends curling as the water ran down the thick strands. Splashing his face clean, Kyle washed quickly, before pulling Liz into his arms, turning her so her back was pressed against his chest. She lay there quietly, absorbing his pain as the change started to die out, leaving him more content.

Liz laid back against his chest, her head resting on his left shoulder, the deep water and bubbles covering her to her shoulders. Kyle tilted his head back, bending his right knee, giving Liz more room in between his legs as they sat there quietly together. Shifting slightly, Kyle rested his left arm on the edge of the bath, sliding his right arm across Liz’s shoulders, holding her gently as they started to talk quietly.

“Did we do the right thing?” Liz asked softly. Kyle contemplated her question for a minute before answering. “When the others find out the truth it’s gonna be a sh*t fight. But as for it being right or wrong, I think it’s right for us. It’s not like we had a choice Liz.” She shrugged slightly, before continuing. “Max won’t see it that way Kyle. All he’ll see is that we betrayed him. That I chose you over him, and the whole hurt little boy routine will start again.” Kyle snorted with laughter at her words, his body shaking as he tried to control his laughter.

“God, do you remember what happened when I asked you to dance at prom?.” Liz started giggling. “I thought he was gonna cry Kyle.” Kyle started laughing again. “I also remember how pissed he was when he found us having lunch together the day school started this year.” Liz started laughing as Kyle raised his voice slightly, his tone becoming whiny.

“But we belong together Liz. You’re my destiny. I’m coming for you Liz.” Liz snorted as she tried to stop laughing. “Seriously though man, when did he become so damn pussy whipped?” Kyle asked. Liz snorted again, her body shaking as she answered. “When he f*#ked Tess while I was in Florida. He didn’t think I knew, and when he threw finding us together in my face, I reminded him that the flashes went both ways. He nearly swallowed his tongue Kyle.”

Kyle paused. “Did you ever tell him about future Max?” he asked softly. Liz shook her head. “Nah. What’s the point?. He’d just want to get back together, and I swear Kyle, he treated me like f*#ken glass. All I can say is thank god for the changes. I never would have been able to walk away if it wasn’t for you.” Kyle started laughing again, dropping a kiss on Liz’s forehead. She looked up at him. “So, you and Aves hey?” she teased.

Kyle blushed, Liz snorting with laughter again. “She’s different Liz. Different from Tess. When she kisses me, it’s me she's seeing, not a replacement for Zan or any thing like that. And she’s beginning to let me see her. You know, the real Ava.” Liz smiled up at him. “I’m happy for ya Kyle. Ya deserve someone like Ava, ya know, someone who’s gonna make ya happy.” Kyle grinned at her, before wiggling his eyebrows.

“What about you Parker?. Ya like the look of Zan?.” Liz smirked. “He’s defiantly easy on the eye, but the way I see it Kyle, is we are in New York City, and I’m eighteen years old. I can do what I want. I don’t need another Max Evans spoiling my fun.” Kyle smirked at her. “I don’t think Zan is anything like Max Liz.” Liz smirked again. “We’ll see.”

A knock interrupted their conversation, both looking towards the door as it swung open. Ava mumbled good morning, Liz sliding out of the bath to get dried as Ava dragged a brush through her hair. “Get in the bath Ava” Liz scolded gently, the blonde alien nodding as she stripped off, joining Kyle in the bath as Liz pulled her underwear on. Tossing a smile over her shoulder, Liz left them to their bath.

Part 9:

Ava walked out of the bathroom, a towel wrapped tightly around her damp body. She paused as Zan’s door opened, a smile crossing her face when Zan stepped out of his room. The former lovers regarded each other for a minute before Zan smirked, opening his arms. Ava grinned as they hugged each other, her eyes dancing as she looked up at him.

“Did ya like ya present?” she whispered, glancing towards the kitchen. Zan smirked again, toying with his goatee as he regarded her. “She’s damn beautiful” he admitted, Ava smiling up at his expression. “She’s also everythin ya ever wanted Zan.” Zan blinked in surprise, Ava giving a sad sort of laugh. “I knew ya were searchin for her Zan. I also know for how long.”

Zan crossed his arms over his chest, letting Ava usher him back into his room. “I never knew why ya didn’t want me Zan. Sure we bumped occasionally, but ya never could give me what I wanted.” Zan raised his eyes slowly. “I remember what we were like Aves. I love ya. Ya know that.” Ava smiled again. “But not da way I wanted ya too Zan. And I just wanted ya to know that it’s ok.”

Zan sighed softly, before finally opening up to her a bit more. “Aves, ya my friend, and ya my girl, but I always thought there was more out there for me. That there was someone made just for me. I know ya think ya loved me Aves, but what ya loved was the idea of me. Of our past. And that’s not who we are, who I am.” Ava nodded slowly, looking up as Zan nudged her hand.

“I really like Kyle Zan. I just wanted ya to know. He treats me right, and I know he has strong feelings for me. He has since before the change, there just more tuned now that he’s awake.” Zan nodded in understanding, both looking up as Kyle entered the room. He and Zan regarded each other silently, before Kyle glanced over his shoulder. Seeing that the coast was clear, he turned back to face Zan.

“I’ll make this quick. Ya hurt Liz and I’ll make what Lonnie and Rath did look like child’s play.” Zan raised his eyebrows slightly. “Yo, I’m da man” he drawled. Kyle smirked. “That you are Zan, and you have my loyalty, but Liz had been my friend since pre school, and I have no worries with ripping your throat out if ya hurt her. Clear?.” Zan simply smirked, standing up as Kyle walked further into the room.

Zan looked him over carefully, before nodding. Kyle relaxed, holding his hand out. Zan smirked as he grasped Kyle’s hand, his powers flooding his hand as he marked Kyle. Kyle yelped, jumping back slightly as he turned his wrist over, seeing the swirl symbol on the inside of his right wrist. “Means family” Zan said quietly, Kyle nodding as they regarded each other silently.

Footsteps sounded down the hall, a slim hand trailing over Kyle’s bare stomach as Liz stepped around him, her long hair held in a knot with a pencil. She and Zan regarded each other, before Liz slowly smirked. “If ya’s wanna eat, ya better get to the table. I don’t cook bacon and eggs everyday” she said softly, her voice a purr as she ran her eyes over Zan’s body.

She raised her blue eyes to his golden eyes, flicking the tip of her tongue over her bottom lip as he stared at her. “Ya like what ya see?” he asked with a smirk. “Nice” she purred, before walking back down the hall, her soft chuckle echoing after her. Zan swung his eyes to Kyle’s silver/grey ones, noticing the smirk he was struggling to hide. “Oh man, this is gonna be good” Kyle said as he backed away, Ava also laughing softly.

She slid from the bed, turning to face Zan as she walked away. “I back Kyle on the Liz thing Zan. She’s my girl, and ya don’t wanna be treating her like some gutter who*e.” Zan snorted as he followed her to the kitchen. “I’m the one who was just looked at like a last meal,” he muttered. Ava looked back at him with a smirk. “It’s not like ya never looked at girls da same way” she replied.

Zan smirked as he walked into the kitchen, sliding into a chair at the table. Liz slid a plate of scrambled eggs and bacon down to him, followed by a bottle of tobasco sauce. He caught it before it hit his plate, dousing his food with the peppery sauce, before sliding it over to Ava. He took a mouthful of eggs, before raising his golden eyes to hers. “Nice” he murmured, both of them sharing a long look, before turning back to their food.

Part 11:
Two weeks later:

Isabel crawled through the open window into Liz’s room, sighing softly when she saw Maria curled up on the bed. Maria had her face pressed into Liz’s pillow, her shoulders shaking slightly as she muffled her sobs in the pillow. She could still smell Liz’s perfume, the scent of vanilla and cinnamon slowly fading. She looked up guiltily as the bed shifted beside her, relief flooding her eyes when she saw Isabel. The two girls had become united in grief, often finding comfort in their combined silence.

Isabel slid her arm around Maria’s shoulders, letting the petite girl cry her grief out onto her shoulder. Maria finally lifted her head, wiping her tears away slowly as she looked at Isabel in silence, debating on whether to say what was on her mind. Isabel tilted her head, a look of concern crossing her face, waiting as Maria struggled to find the words she was seeking.

“Iz, when you dream walk someone, can they feel your presence if they know what you are doing?” Maria began slowly. Isabel shrugged. “If they’re alien then sure. But you know about my abilities, so yes, I suppose you’d know. Why?.” Maria dropped her eyes slightly. “Can you dream walk me so I know for sure?. Then I’ll explain why.” Isabel nodded, her eyes widening as Maria laid down. “What, now?” she exclaimed. Maria nodded, before closing her eyes.

Isabel watched as Maria slowly drifted off to sleep, before grabbing the photo from Liz’s nightstand. It was of the eight of them on prom night, Isabel sighing as she remembered how happy they’d all been. Lying down next to Maria, she pressed her finger to Maria’s face in the picture, sleep claiming her quickly as she entered Maria’s dream. She stood there in silence, watching as Maria slowly turned from Liz’s tombstone. “Ok Isabel, wake me up now. I can feel you.”

Isabel woke with a start, shaking Maria awake as she sat up. Maria rubbed her eyes, before slowly standing up. “I don’t want you to mention this to anyone Isabel, not even Alex or Max” she began. Isabel nodded, her concern mounting as Maria sat on the window ledge. “Someone’s been dream walking me for the past two weeks. They keep them selves hidden, but I know them.”

Isabel frowned slightly. “What do you mean?” she asked. Maria rubbed her eyes tiredly. “I knew the minute you entered my dream. I know what you feel like. I don’t know how else to explain it. I know this other presence, but I don’t know how. All they do is watch, and then they leave. I wake up feeling like I’m not so alone anymore, and I look forward to going back to sleep that night. I don’t think they know I’ve felt them, and I’m scared if I revile that I have, I’ll loose her all over again.”

Isabel stood up slowly, crossing the room to kneel in front of Maria. “What are you talking Maria?” she said softly. Maria raised her eyes slowly. “I think it’s Liz Isabel.” Isabel reared back like she’d been slapped. “Liz is dead Maria,” she said sharply. Maria shook her head slowly. “I don’t think she is. Don’t look at me like I’m crazy Isabel. Liz and I have been friends since the second grade, and I know her better than I know myself. It’s her.”

Isabel shook her head in disbelief, Maria grabbing her hand as she started backing away. “Look, stay at my house tonight, dream walk me, and then make your decision on whether I’m crazy or not. But I know her Isabel. She’s checking in on me, making sure I’m ok. I don’t know why or how, but I know it’s her.” Isabel sat down with a thud. “Ok, hypothetically speaking, just say it is her. What then Maria?.”

Maria shrugged. “I haven’t thought that far ahead Iz. If I’m wrong, then cart me off to the loony bin. But if I’m right….”. She let her words trail off, a single tear sliding down her face as she struggled to compose herself. Taking a deep breath, she began again. “If I’m right, then I’ll go to Jim. But I want this kept quiet for now.” Isabel sighed again, before nodding.

The remainder of the day past slowly, Isabel promising Maria to keep her presence well hidden in her dreams. As they got ready for bed, Maria turned to face Isabel. “Thank you for trusting me so far Iz” she said softly. Isabel smiled. “I miss her too Maria. I’m glad you and I have become good friends now, and I hope that you’re right about this.” Maria looked into Isabel’s eyes. “I know I’m right.”

Isabel entered Maria’s dream easily half an hour later, keeping her presence hidden as she watched Maria kneel in front of Liz’s grave. She watched as Maria traced the details on Liz’s tombstone with her fingers, her body relaxed as she sang softly. Glancing around the dark graveyard Isabel waited patently. A sudden wave of energy had Isabel looking around wildly, now knowing what Maria meant by the familiar presence. Maria slowly raised her head, speaking softly. “I miss you,” she whispered. Isabel held her breath, her fear skittering along her spine as leaves crunched near Maria.

A shadow appeared, the person still hiding their face in shadows. Maria turned slowly, willing the moon to come out as she looked up. “What are ya doin Maria?” Liz asked softly, finally showing herself. Maria stood up slowly, reaching out to touch Liz. She gave a strangled sob as Liz stepped out of reach. The two girls regarded each other, Maria taking in Liz’s appearance slowly. Liz looked at Maria silently as she took another step towards her, pausing as Liz once more stepped out of reach. “I’m dust on the wind girl. Ya gotta let it go.” Maria shook her head, tears streaming down her face as she looked into Liz’s blue eyes. “Why are your eyes blue Liz?. Why am I standing on top of your grave, with you standing before me?.” Maria’s voice faltered. “Why did you leave me?.” Liz smirked. “It’s not that black and white Maria. There are other people involved, other lives at stake. I had no choice.”

Liz turned around slowly, staring straight at Isabel. “Come on out Isabel. I know you’re there.” Isabel stepped out, regarding Liz silently. Liz smirked slightly, Isabel noticing the differences in her brother’s former girlfriend. “Ya noticed the energy didn’t you,” she said softly. Isabel nodded silently, feeling the energy flowing off Liz like water. Liz raising her hand, a sphere of coloured light appearing. Leaning forward, Isabel and Maria saw Kyle asleep in bed with Ava. “I knew it” Maria cried, turning to face Liz once more. “That’s why she was at the funerals, and why she gave me back the pendent. She was letting me know you were ok.”

“As I said, other people and lives involved.” Liz closed her hand, the image disappearing. “I can’t stay much longer. If you want answers, see Jim. He knows the truth.” Maria grabbed Liz’s arm suddenly, a sob slipping out of her mouth when she touched solid flesh. Liz stared at her, a ghost of a smile crossing her face. “I don’t need to tell you to keep this to yourselves.”

Maria started babbling quickly. “What about Max?” she pleaded. Liz smirked. “What about him?.” “He misses you” Maria cried. Liz shrugged. “Then why’s he f*#kin Tess?” she drawled. All three looked up as another presence suddenly made it’s self-known. Liz snorted softly. “It’s ok, I know him.” Isabel and Maria gasped as a Max look alike stepped into the clearing. He smirked as he ran his eyes over the two girls, before slinging his arm around Liz’s shoulders.

“Zan, this is Isabel and Maria. Guys, this is Zan.” Liz turned to face Zan, a frown on her face. “I thought I told ya to stay out of my head,” she said quietly. Zan smirked again. “I could feel ya. Decided to check in.” Liz snorted as they looked at each other. “Check into my bed ya mean” she drawled. Zan raised his pierced eyebrow, trailing his hand over her back slowly. “Ya can’t blame me,” he drawled. Liz snorted again as she turned back to Maria and Isabel. “Jim’s coming to see us in two weeks. Come with him. Bring Alex, but ya can’t tell the others.” She stared hard at them for a minute. “If ya do, I really am dead.”

Maria stepped towards Liz again, pausing as Zan pulled her firmly against his muscular body. “Step off sweet cheeks. Ya hurtin her enough as it is.” Maria paused, finally noticing the dark circles under Liz’s eyes. “Ya gonna see her soon enough. Just stop dreamin da shit ya dreamin. Ya suckin her in every time.” Maria raised her eyes, watching as Liz slowly started to fade. Maria and Isabel both sat bolt right up in bed at the same time, panting as they stared at each other. Maria didn’t hesitate. “Lets go see Jim.”


Part 12:

Jim shuffled towards the front door slowly, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. Unlocking the door, he pulled it open, surprised to see Isabel and Maria on his doorstep. Jim shook his head slightly as he checked the clock, yawning as he saw it was only three am. Opening the door wider, he ushered them into the kitchen. The girls sat at the table, watching silently as Jim made a pot of coffee.

He finally joined them at the table, Maria holding her mug as Jim focused his eyes on her. “What are you doing here?” he finally asked. Maria glanced at Isabel before answering softly. “When were you going to tell us the truth about Kyle and Liz?” she whispered. Jim paled as he looked at her, before shaking his head. “What do you mean?” he asked softly. Maria slammed her mug down on the table. “That they aren’t dead,” she hisses angrily.

Jim visibly sagged, carefully setting his mug down on the table. “I was under orders not to tell you, or Alex until we went to the city. I was also told not to tell Max, Michael, Isabel or Tess until they were invited to the summit meeting in the next few weeks.” Isabel spoke up quietly. “How long have you now for?.” Jim sighed softly. “Since the memorial at school. I was on my way to see Jeff Parker when Broadie asked to see me. Turns out that he was being controlled by Larek, and that’s when Kyle and Liz told me the truth.”

Maria started crying quietly, the pain in her heart changing from grief to betrayal. “What’s going on?” she asked. Jim ran his hands through his hair, before getting up to close the kitchen door. “Liz and Kyle are with Ava and Zan. Kivar found out that Liz and Kyle were changing. The changes were occurring because of Max healing them. He made plans to use them in the war against the Antarien’s in exchange for the granolith. Larek found out and intervened. At the same time, he found out about the plot against Zan.”

Jim paused, taking a mouthful of coffee before continuing with his story. “Zan and Ava used their powers to make Lonnie and Rath believe he was dead. After the last summit meeting, they were tried and executed. Their powers were stored, and handed on to Liz and Kyle.” Jim raised his eyes to Isabel. “They are more powerful than the Roswell set, more alien as well. That’s why their eyes have changed. They are now the royal four. The Roswell set will rule earth, Zan and his crew will rule Antar.”

Isabel snorted softly. “Max is king,” she hissed. Jim shook his head. “No he isn’t Isabel. He has the seal because he is Zan’s dupe. But if the Roswell set was ever to set foot on Antar, they would be executed for treason.” Isabel paled at his words, before speaking again. “Then why do we have the granolith?.” Jim shrugged. “Zan wanted it kept with you, knowing only he could make it work. It’s not only a ship, it’s also a weapon.”

Maria pressed her fingers to her eyes, muttering softly under her breath. Looking up again, she finally asked what Jim knew would be the hardest question to answer. “What do you mean they are more alien?.” Jim sighed, before answering slowly. “Liz and Kyle have kept this a secret for more than six months. When I saw them at the UFO centre, Liz told me that she could turn her emotions on and off like a tap. Just like she did with her love for Max. That the only reason they were telling me, was that they knew I would sniff around their deaths until I uncovered the truth.”

Maria paled slightly. “If you hadn’t?” she whispered. Jim looked at her steadily. “Then we wouldn’t have ever known the truth.” Maria started crying again softly, staring at Jim through disbelieving eyes. “You have to understand this Maria. If they hadn’t done this, Kivar would have taken them and done god knows what. Larek explained how he had controlled Rath and Lonnie. He had mind raped them until he was able to control them like puppets.”

Isabel blinked. “What do you mean?” she asked. “Lonnie was already dead when Rath broke out of the mind warp. He gave his life to Zan for trying to kill him. When they broke out of the pods, Kivar was already controlling them. Imagine what he would do to Liz and Kyle. Both physically and mentally. I’d rather have Kyle like this, than have my son used as a puppet for the destruction of earth.”

Isabel nodded in understanding. Jim yawned again, standing up slowly. “I leave for New York in two weeks. I’ll clear it with your parents on why you are coming with me. Just promise me you won’t tell the others, not even Alex or Michael. When I speak to Kyle tonight, I’ll see if you can bring Michael though. I know Kyle misses him.” Maria and Isabel followed him to the front door, pausing as Jim gave them both a tight hug. “I’m glad you know,” he confessed as he opened the door. The two girls nodded, both silent as they made their way home.

Part 13:

Ava yawned as she rolled over, smiling when she saw Kyle looking at her. Sitting up, he ran his fingers through his dark hair, before turning to face Ava. “Can I ask a favour?” he said softly. Ava nodded, smiling when Kyle asked her to help him change his appearance. Ava tilted her head as she regarded her lover, finally reaching up to change his hair.

Kyle felt the tingle on his scalp as his hair got longer, the front hanging just above his silver grey eyes, the wave in his hair relaxing, the strands becoming straight. Ava ran her fingers through the thick strands, giving them a tousled look. The back of his hair was still short, the strands lightening as she used her power to streak his hair heavily with a pale blonde. The dark strands stood out against the blonde, Ava licking her lips as she contemplated her next move.

Reaching up, she pierced his right eyebrow, the silver bar gleaming against his tanned face. “Any where else?” she asked. Kyle grinned, before poking his tongue out. Ava smirked, remembering the conversation she had overheard between Kyle and Zan on the benefits of a tongue piercing. Leaning forward, she pierced his tongue, before tasting him quickly, healing the pain and swelling with the tip of her tongue. Kyle smirked, rolling the silver ball over the roof of his mouth in wonder. He winced when Ava pi

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Part 14:

Liz stepped out of the shower, wrapping a towel around her wet body as she walked over to the mirror. She dried herself quickly, looking at herself and the changes in her appearance. She had let Ava help her the previous week, grinning when she remembered seeing Kyle’s new look that morning. She smirked as she thought of how Max was going to react when he finally saw her.

Liz’s long dark hair was now layered, the different lengths framing her face. She had let Ava pierce her stomach with a silver bar, and a diamond stud in her nose. Her left ear had three hoops, her right two. The top of her right ear was also pierced. She had drawn the line at any more piercing.

The alien swirl symbol was on the inside of her right wrist, the ink a pale blue. She had a pair of wings on her stomach, one either side of her belly button, framing the silver bar nicely. Starting on her right shoulder blade, there were eight of the antarien butterflies on her back, sweeping down to her left hip in a lazy backwards-S shape.

Liz pulled a short denim skirt on, the edges frayed, the skirt hugging her body closely. It skimmed her legs mid thigh, the denim faded and soft to touch. Grabbing her top Liz pulled it on, smoothing the tight black material down over her ribs. It sat above her belly button, the front a cowl neckline, the back dipping into a deep V, revealing her tattoos. Sitting on the edge of the bath, Liz pulled her black knee high boots on, zipping them up her legs. They gave her some height, and made her legs look even longer.

A knock on the door caught her attention, Liz smiling as Ava walked into the bathroom. Ava watched as Liz brushed her long hair, before pulling it into a ponytail on top of her head, the long strands giving her an innocent look. Liz lined her eyes heavily with black eye liner, coating her eyelashes with mascara, before adding some bronzer to her cheekbones, and a slick of pale lip-gloss.

Liz turned to Ava, a smirk on her face. “How do I look?” she asked, a playful expression on her face. Ava started laughing. “Damn Liz. Ya look as innocent as hell, yet ready to bounce at da same time.” Ava glanced over her shoulder, before continuing softly. “Ya gonna break him ya know.” Liz snorted softly. She was thoughtful as Ava dressed, thankful that she and Ava had become such tight friends in such a short amount of time. Ava glanced at Liz as she pulled a pair of black satin pants on, smiling as she regarded the girl who was her best friend.

Ava pulled a red halter neck top on, the material tight on her slender body. Lining her eyes as Liz had done, she tousled her hair, before turning to Liz. “Lets bounce girl.” They found Kyle and Zan waiting for them in the kitchen, Ava smothering her snort of laughter at the look on Zan’s face. She walked around the bench, letting Kyle pull her into his arms, sighing softly as he brushed his lips lightly over hers.

She peeked at Zan out the corner of her eye, nodding slightly as she took in his and Kyle’s appearances. Zan was wearing black leather pants, the leather fitting him like a second skin. A sleeveless white top showed his muscular body off, the material so sheer she could see the tattoos through it. Kyle was wearing baggy faded blue jeans, and a black silk shirt, the shirt unbuttoned over a tight white Singlet top.

Liz ran her eyes over Zan slowly, smiling at the tattoo on his back. It was a large angel, kneeling with its head hanging, it’s wings down as if in defeat. His name was tattooed across the base of his neck. She sighed softly as she turned to pick her bag up, flashing Ava a slow smile as they left the loft.

They arrived at the club ten minutes later, Liz glad they only lived a block from the clubbing district. She could hear the music pounding through the brick walls as they waited to enter the club. Heat was one of the hottest clubs in the city, the line always long with people hoping to get in. They hit the front of the line quickly, Liz smiling as Zan shook hands with the bouncer.

“Zan my man, ‘bout time ya returned to ya stompin ground” Ricky said, giving Ava a kiss on the cheek. Ricky shook hands with Kyle, before picking Liz up in his arms, giving her a tight squeeze before putting her down. He opened the doors for them as he ushered them through, Zan smirking when Ricky’s eyes lingered on Liz. He and Ricky locked eyes, Ricky shaking his head at the knowing look Zan gave him. “Lucky dog” Ricky muttered, watching as they disappeared from sight.

Liz tossed her head as she moved in time to the music with Ava. Zan and Kyle stood together at the bar in a friendly silence, watching as the two girls danced easily, their movements provocative and sexy. Ava pointed to the bar as the song they were dancing to started to end, Liz tossing her a grin as she watched Ava move off the floor. Ava gave Kyle a quick kiss as she ordered a coke, surprised when he stiffened suddenly. She sighed when the opening bars of my immortal began to play, nodding as he shot her a quick look, before hurrying down the stairs to Liz. Kyle reached her quickly, taking her hand in his as she broke from the trance she was caught in.

Zan and Ava watched in silence as Kyle pulled Liz into his arms, holding her tightly as they began to dance slowly. Zan turned to Ava, nodding when she spoke softly. “Maria sang this at their funerals.” He turned back to watch them dance, his jaw tightening as he saw how they were dancing. Liz had her head resting on Kyle’s chest, her arms slung around his hips as they swayed, her eyes shut to keep the emotions at bay. Kyle had his lips resting on her bare shoulder, his hands lightly trailing over her bare back as they danced, his face hidden from view. Ava saw the look on Zan’s face, a smirk crossing her lips.

Kyle felt Liz shaking in his arms, and lifted his head from her shoulder. Catching her face in his hands, he lifted her head, forcing her to look at him. Liz opened her eyes slowly, the blue depths swimming with pain and unshed tears. Kyle smiled at her crookedly, understanding in his silver eyes. They held each other’s eyes, still swaying slowly to the music. “It’s gonna be ok Liz. Two more weeks.” Liz gave him a sad smile, easing out of his embrace as the music changed tempo again.

Kyle watched as she took a step away from him, before pushing her way through the large crowd, Kyle loosing sight of her instantly. Sighing softly he returned to the bar, giving Ava a tight hug as she looked up at him. “Thank you for being here” he whispered, Ava smiling as she gave him a soft kiss on the forehead. Turning back to Zan, Ava was surprised to see he was gone from her side. Shrugging, she turned back to Kyle.

Part 15:

Liz walked further into the crowded dance floor, needing to loose herself in the music. She could see the bar on the other side of the club, and smiled softly as she watched Kyle pull Ava into his arms for a kiss. Turning around again, she began to move to the music, ignoring the guys who tried to catch her eye. Running her hands over her tense shoulders lightly, Liz raised her arms beside her head, her hips swaying as she danced.

She froze for a minute when a pair of warm hands slid across her bare stomach, before relaxing as she continued to dance. The guy behind her could defiantly keep up with her, his movements mimicking hers as they swayed together. He pulled her firmly against his body, Liz sighing softly when he nipped the side of her throat, soothing the bite mark with the tip of his tongue.

Liz felt her eyes slide shut as his left hand splayed across her stomach, his right trailing up and down her ribs slowly as he continued to feast on the side of her neck, before dropping his mouth to where her shoulder and neck met, sucking lightly on the sensitive skin. Liz tilted her head slightly, giving him more access to move, gripping his right thigh in her small hand as he continued to draw lazy patterns on her bare stomach.

Liz turned around slowly, raising her eyes to Zan’s as he continued to move with her in his arms. They stared at each other for a minute, before he slid his right hand around the back of her neck, his large hand tilting her head up slightly, his eyes darkening as he watched her bite her lower lip. Splaying his left hand across her lower back, he pulled her closer to him, his intent loud and clear to Liz.

As he tilted her head slightly again, she raised her mouth to his, the contact feather light, as if they were both testing the waters. Zan pulled back slightly, his golden eyes locked with her blue ones, watching her closely as she gave in, raising her mouth to his once more. Zan brushed his lips over hers slowly, needing to control the passion he had felt for her since the first day he had seen her. When she parted her lips slightly beneath his, he teased her bottom lip with his teeth and tongue softly, before sliding his tongue into her mouth, keeping the movement slow and light.

Liz jumped slightly when his piercing slid over her tongue, a soft pant swallowed by his mouth, as he tasted her slowly, his movement’s soft and teasing. Sliding her hand around the back of his neck, she pulled his mouth firmly against hers, wanting more than he was giving her. Zan hissed at her movement, throwing caution to the wind as he deepened the kiss, his body temperature slowly heating up as he dipped his tongue into her waiting mouth again, stroking, tasting and teasing as he continued to sway with her in his arms.

Zan lifted his head when the need to breath began to make him light headed. Trailing his lips over her jaw, he nuzzled her neck again, feeling her pulse jumping quickly under his lips. He could feel her body heat under his hands as he moved back to her mouth, catching her in a deep kiss. His body was responding to the heat she was throwing off, knowing that she’d be able to feel how he was reacting to her.

A high-pitched female voice broke their kiss, Zan swinging his eyes to the sound. A buxom red head stood beside them, her friends crowded behind her as she stared at them. “Who’s that Zan?” she twittered. Zan felt Liz freeze in his arms, before pulling away slightly. Zan glared at the girl. “Who da f*#ks askin?” he snarled. The red head pouted, trailing her nails down his bare arm suggestively. “You said you were going to call me” she purred, paling slightly as Zan snorted.

Liz pulled out of his arms completely, Zan turning to look at her. Liz’s eyes were ice blue, her emotions switched off completely as she raised her eyebrow. “Liz” he said softly, pausing when she stepped away from him again. “Ya better go and do ya thing Zan” she said coldly, before turning to walk away. Zan started after her, turning in anger when the redhead grabbed his arm. “Step off bitch” he snarled, the girl paling as he glared at her. He wrenched his arm out of her grasp, scanning the crowd as he looked for Liz. He saw her duck out the front doors of the club, and followed her out.

He broke into a quick walk, his skin shocked by the cool night air as he hurried outside, spotting Liz walking towards the loft. Grabbing her hand he spun her around, catching her other hand as she swung at him. He stared down at her, seeing anger and desire in her eyes, and pulled her back into his arms. He caught her lips with his, keeping her hands locked in his as she pulled away from his mouth again, her eyes and body betraying her mind as she glared at him.

“Not gonna happen Zan” she spat. Zan smirked slowly, using his thumb to sweep the swirl tattoo on her wrist. “Ya body tells me differently” he said softly, Liz wrenching her hands out of his as she shook her head. She backed away from him, before turning towards the loft again. Zan felt like his body was on fire, and continued to follow her, Liz shaking her head as she muttered about aliens.

Part 16:

Liz reached the loft quickly, jogging up the stairs as Zan continued to follow her inside. Liz slammed the door shut, Zan catching it easily before it hit his body. Shutting the door behind him, he locked it before heading for the kitchen. He leant against the door jam as he watched Liz pull her hair free, the long silky strands falling around her shoulders and face as she turned to glare at him. Zan smirked slowly, pushing away from the door jam as he walked slowly towards her, Liz backing away as he drew closer to her.

Liz hit the wall with a thud, cursing softly as Zan took a final step towards her, placing his hands either side of her head. “I ain’t him,” he said softly, watching as Liz paled slightly, before raising her eyes to his. “That’s not the point Zan. You look like him.” Zan raised his eyebrows slightly. “That’s where da similarities stop,” he said. Liz smiled softly, the smile not reaching her eyes. “Do they?” she asked quietly. Zan tilted his head slightly. “He hurt me Zan.” Zan smirked again slowly. “I won’t.” Liz went to speak again, startled when Zan placed his fingertips over her lips. “Stop thinkin so much. Just feel,” he murmured.

Liz sighed softly as he rubbed his thumb over her bottom lip gently, tracing the out line of her lips with his finger before tilting her head back again. She let her eyes slide shut as his lips brushed hers, his hands trailing slowly down her ribs as he moved his mouth over hers slowly, the kiss whisper soft. Zan groaned softly as her lips parted for him, dipping his tongue into her warm mouth, stroking and tasting as he drew slow circles on her hips with his fingers.

Liz could feel his energy dancing under his skin as she wound her arms around his neck, dragging her long nails lightly over his skin. He shuddered slightly at her touch, deepening the kiss as his body started to heat up again. Zan could feel her skin warming under his hands as her desire started to mount, dragging his mouth from hers to kiss the side of her neck. He could hear her soft pants in the silent loft, the sounds fuelling his passion.

Hooking his thumb under the edge of her top, he dragged the strap of her top from her right shoulder, moving his lips across her tanned skin as he ran his hand over her smooth back. Liz slid her hands under the bottom of his top, scrapping her nails lightly over the base of his spine. Zan hissed against her shoulder, Liz smiling softly as he raised his head to look at her. Liz pulled his top slowly up his body, Zan raising his arms as she pulled it over his head. She dropped it at their feet, tilting her head slightly as she looked up at him.

Zan knelt down, running his hands down her smooth legs to the zip on her boots. He felt Liz rest her hands slightly on his shoulders as he picked her left foot up, sliding the boot from her leg. He removed her other boot before standing back up, his hands slowly trailing up her bare thighs to her hips. Pulling her flush against him, Zan caught her lips once more, the kiss heated and demanding.

Liz could feel the bulge in his pants pressed against her and the heat on his skin under her hands, knowing how tightly he was keeping himself in check for her. Rising up on tiptoe, she nipped the base of his throat, hearing his soft hiss as she flicked the tip of her tongue over his collarbone, while trailing her nails over his washboard abbs. Zan picked her up suddenly, Liz automatically wrapping her slender legs around his waist as he pushed her against the wall, his mouth moving over her throat quickly, nipping and sucking as he held her in his arms.

Zan could feel the dampness between her thighs where she was pressed against his bare stomach, a soft snarl slipping out of his mouth as he kicked his boots off. He turned quickly, heading for his room as Liz pressed light kisses to the side of his neck, her hands tangling in his hair as he kicked the door shut behind him. He cursed when his knees hit the edge of the bed, Liz laughing softly as he sat her down. She scooted back as he knelt beside her, sliding his hands under the bottom of her top.

Raising her arms, she let him pull the black material from her body, Zan groaning softly as he raked his heated eyes over her body. Pushing her down onto the mattress, he covered her body with his, feeling her heart pounding against his as he began to kiss her again. Trailing his lips lower, Zan caught the hardened tip of her breast in his mouth, Liz arching as he sucked on her sensitive flesh. He felt her skin rise in goose bumps against his hands and lips, her soft moan music to his ears.

Liz forced his head up as he released her breast, her eyes dark with desire. “Zan, now” she pleaded. Zan’s eyes darkened again, his breathing coming out in short pants to match hers as he knelt up. He slowly unbuttoned her skirt, Liz raising her hips as he pulled the denim from her body. He groaned when he saw her lacy black cheeky shorts, the scent of her arousal teasing his nostrils. He pulled the scrap of lace from her body, smiling softly as Liz reached for the buttons on his pants.

Pushing her down again, he slid the leather pants down his muscular thighs, kicking them aside as he joined her again on the bed. Skimming his hands over her body, he slid his fingers through the dark curls at the base of her body, Liz moaning softly when he dipped lower, tracing her folds slowly. Dipping his finger inside of her, Zan hissed at the heat he found. She was more than ready for him, her walls slick with desire. Reaching for his pants he grabbed his wallet, pausing when Liz grabbed his hand. “I’m on the pill Zan.”

They locked eyes, Zan nodding as he dropped his pants back on the floor. Liz pulled him back down to her, Zan catching her mouth in a slow deep kiss that left them both panting. Zan moved between her thighs, pausing again as he looked into her eyes. “This changes everythin,” he warned. Liz nodded, reaching between them to brush his erection with her fingers lightly. “I know,” she whispered, Zan lowering his head to brush her lips lightly with his. Guiding himself forward, he brushed his erection against her opening, Liz moaning softly as he slid inside of her slowly.

Liz kept her eyes locked with Zan’s as he entered her, a soft sigh escaping her mouth as he stretched her with his size. Zan took it slowly, a soft moan escaping his mouth as he buried himself in her slick walls. She was tight, hot and so damn wet, her slickness sliding over his length as he entered her fully. Grasping her leg he drew it up slightly, giving him more room to move as he began to thrust in and out of her slowly. He hissed when Liz drew her legs up around his hips, changing the angel of the thrusts, Zan moving deeper within her.

They moved together slowly, matching thrust for thrust. Liz could feel her stomach tightening, her body heating up quickly as her body responded to his. She felt like she was on fire, Zan grunting softly as his own body flared with sudden heat, the alien side taking over both of them quickly. Zan locked eyes with Liz, an animalistic growl escaping his throat when he saw her eyes were nearly ice blue. Liz looked up at him, surprised to see his eyes were a pale gold, like those of a wolf.

Zan could feel his release approaching, a shudder running down his back as he fought for control. Liz was panting in his ear, her breathing erratic as she arched under him suddenly. Zan cried out softly as her velvety walls contracted around his length, loosing the control he was desperately hanging onto. He thrust into her hard and fast, Liz crying out as her orgasm tore through her body. She felt Zan plunging into her pliant body, before he stiffened suddenly. She felt him swell inside of her as he cried out, before emptying himself within her, liquid heat splashing her womb as he buried himself to the hilt.

Zan slumped on top of Liz, both panting at the force of their joining and consequent release. Zan rolled to the side a minute later, pulling Liz against him as he drew the covers up over her trembling body. He kept them joined intimately, brushing a kiss over her closed eyes. He smiled softly when he realised she’d already fallen asleep. “Ya mine” he whispered as sleep took him, Liz smiling softly against his chest.

Ava and Kyle walked into the loft a few hours later, both wondering where Liz and Zan had gone. Turning the kitchen light on, Ava paused when she saw Liz’s bag on the bench. She turned slowly, seeing Zan’s shoes not far from where she was standing, Liz’s boots near the couch and Zan’s top near the wall. A smile crossed her face as she turned to Kyle, silently pointing to each item in turn.

Kyle smirked, walking quietly down the hallway, Ava following him a minute later. Peeking into Liz’s room, they saw that the bed was neatly made, Kyle shutting the door as Ava walked down to Zan’s room. She eased the door open quietly, covering her mouth when she saw through the crack in the door.

Liz was lying on her side facing Zan, her bare back facing the door. The silk sheet was gathered around her hips, Zan’s bare arm slung over her waist as they slept. Liz’s hair was down and spread in disarray across the pillows, a hicky on her shoulder visible from where Ava and Kyle stood. As they watched the new lovers, Zan suddenly lifted his head, opening his eyes as he looked at Kyle and Ava.

Ava smirked as Zan blinked at her tiredly, before simply shutting his eyes and laying his head back down on the pillow, his arm tightening around Liz as he went back to sleep. Shutting his door, Ava turned to Kyle with a saucy smirk on her beautiful face. “I think I owe ya a big kiss,” she purred. Kyle smirked again, picking Ava up as she locked her legs around his waist. Ava laughed softly as he carried her to their room, shutting the door on the world.
Part 17:
Two weeks later.

Jim yawned widely as he drove into the lower area of New York City, Alex mumbling in the passenger seat beside him. The sun was just peeking over the horizon as Jim pulled up at the address Kyle had given him. As he parked the car, he smiled at the sight in the back seat. Michael had his head resting on the headrest, his arm around Maria as she snored softly against his shoulder. Isabel had her head in Michael’s lap, Michael’s hand tangled in her long blonde hair.

It had been easy to get the four of them out of Roswell. Jim had told Amy he was visiting relatives in the city, and that he thought it would be good for Maria to get out of Roswell for a few days, Maria wanting Alex to come with her. Isabel hadn’t wanted to be separated from Alex, Michael doing what he wanted as per usual. Jim was surprised they’d pulled it off so easily.

Jim glanced at his watch as he thought back to telling Michael and Alex why they were actually going to the city after they’d left Roswell. Alex had gotten angry, followed by a bout of silent tears as the realisation sunk in that he was going to be seeing Liz again. Michael had simply cried, the strong front he’d been holding up dissolving easily in Maria’s arms. Both guys had understood the reasons for the secrecy, and swore to keep it quiet.

A tap on his window had Jim jumping slightly, confusion settling into his mind as he turned to see a tall man by his window. Jim rolled the tinted window down, startled to see the man had purple eyes, and honey coloured skin. An odd combination in his opinion. The man smirked, holding his hand out. “Good to see you again Jim” he said softly, not wanting to wake the others just yet.

Jim stared at the man, who started to chuckle softly. “Larek” he finally said, recognising the eyes of the alien who had given him the second chance with his son. Larek nodded, stepping aside as Jim exited the car. “They aren’t home yet Jim. Park the car in the garage, and I’ll show you where you are staying.” Jim nodded, parking where Larek indicated. He woke the others up, the four teenagers stretching as they tumbled out of the car.

As they headed for the elevators, the roar of a motorbike caught their attention, the group turning to watch as a bike pulled up the ramp. The rider didn’t see them as they stood in the shadows, swinging widely to park next to another bike. The first bike was black and yellow, the other silver and pale blue. The passenger swung off the back of the yellow and black bike, the rider close behind them.

The group watched as Ava pulled her helmet off, backing quickly away as the rider swung from the bike. She started laughing softly as Kyle pulled his helmet off, dropping it on the ground as he stalked her around the bike, desire turning his eyes pure silver in the dim light. Reaching out, Kyle smirked as he caught her by the hand and pulled her into his arms, his hand cradling her head as he pulled her closer for a heated kiss. He took her helmet and dropped it with his as he continued to kiss her, backing her up against a structural support as she unzipped his jacket.

The group was shocked into silence as Kyle shrugged out of his leather jacket, leaving it where it had fallen. He trailed his lips over Ava’s throat as he pulled her jacket down around her arms, trapping them in place as he caught her mouth again. Ava finally broke free of her jacket, pulling his tight black tee shirt up and over his head, tossing the material at their feet as she scraped her nails over his back. The muscles in his shoulders shifted and bunched, causing his tattoo to ripple slightly. Kyle hissed, grabbing her hands and pulling them above their heads as he continued to kiss her throat. Ava started laughing when he picked her up, locking her legs around his waist as he caught her lips in a deep kiss, her soft moan echoing around the silent car park.

Kyle leant her against the structural support, his hands grasping her thighs as she wiggled against him. “Damn girl, ya wanna start don’t ya” he hissed, Ava smirking as she bit his lower lip. “Mmm, ya so tasty” she whispered softly, Kyle catching her mouth with his again. Someone clearing their throat broke the kiss, Kyle swinging his head around, his silver eyes flashing in the dim light, as he looked for the person responsible for the interruption. He came face to face with Larek, sighing as he straightened up, letting Ava slide down his body as Larek stepped towards them. “Yo man, what’s what?” he asked. Larek grinned, taking in their appearance.

Kyle was only wearing his baggy blue jeans, the rest of his clothes at his feet, and a scowl on his face. Ava was wearing a short leather skirt, with fishnet stocking that stopped mid thigh, and heavy black boots. A white top was covering her breasts and little else, her jacket hanging around her waist. Larek could see the desire in their eyes, and stifled a snort of laughter. “Where’s Zan and Liz?” he asked, not giving away the presence of the others, knowing they were staring at Kyle in wonder and shock.

Kyle shrugged, pointing at the silver and blue bike. “If I know Zan, he’s probably in bed with Liz. At least I hope they’re in bed. We walked in on them in the kitchen last week.” Larek started laughing, watching as Kyle bent down to pick up his clothes, the muscles in his body straining in the dim light, showing just how much he’d changed. “They left the club about three hours ago, so I’d say it’s safe to go up” he continued, slinging his arm around Ava as they walked towards the elevators. As he got closer to Larek, Kyle couldn’t help giving him a dig.

“Yo man, ya timing sucks by the way.” Kyle paused as Jim stepped into the light next to Larek, Kyle smirking slightly as he let Ava go. He gave his father a tight hug in silence, pulling back as Jim continued to stare at him. “Hey Dad, ya weren’t meant to be here until tonight,” he said softly. Jim shrugged, cupping Kyle’s face as he took in the changes in his son. “I wanted to see you,” he said. “But not that much of you” he added as an after thought. Kyle grinned again, turning to face his friends as they stepped forward slowly. They regarded each other in silence, until Kyle spoke up again.

“What?. Ya look like ya’ll seen a ghost” he quipped. “A horny one at that” Michael snorted, stepping closer to give Kyle a tight hug. He pulled back a minute later, nodding silently as Kyle looked at him. Kyle grinned, turning to face Isabel, who promptly threw her arms tightly around him, burying her head in his shoulder. Kyle sighed softly, resting his head on her shoulder as he held her. She pulled away a minute later, giving Ava a watery smile. Alex shook hands with Kyle silently, Kyle laughing softly when Alex suddenly hugged him, before backing away quickly. Turning to face Maria, Kyle waited for the explosion, surprised when it never came. Maria simply held him tightly, and then let him go. They regarded each silently, before Kyle nodded.

He slung his arm around Ava again, letting the others follow them as they entered the waiting elevator. Leaning against the wall, Kyle pulled Ava closer to him, resting his chin on her shoulder as the elevator started to slowly glide up to the loft. Ava tilted her head up, Kyle hissing softly as he claimed her mouth, tasting her slowly as he ran his hands down her thighs, feeling her small hands trailing over his bare chest, before tugging gently on his nipple ring. A soft giggle broke the kiss, Kyle blinking when he realised everyone was staring at them. “What?” he protested. Larek rolled his eyes, laughing softly when Kyle shrugged. “Hey man, ya did interrupt us” Kyle said indignantly, laughter echoing around them as the tension broke in the group.

The doors opened quietly, Kyle picking Ava up and slinging her over his shoulder as they started down the hall. Linkin Park’s “With you” echoed down the hallway as he gave her backside a tap as she struggled in his arms, her helpless laughter causing him to smile as he opened the door to the loft. Hitting the switch by the door, Kyle started laughing as he put Ava down, who took one look at the main room, and started laughing as well. The group entered the loft silently, Maria’s jaw falling open as she stepped over a short denim skirt, before scooting around a black silky tank top.

Michael and Isabel shared a look when they saw a pair of leather pants hanging over the edge of a chair, a pair of red lace cheeky shorts sitting on the stove, obviously thrown there from the other side of the bench. “At least they made it to the bedroom this time” Kyle said wryly as he started picking the discarded clothing up, Ava snorting with laughter as she reached for the black lace bra, grabbing it out of the fruit bowl. Kyle pointed to the couch, grinning as his father and friends sat down, waving his hand as his powers lowered the volume of the music.

Part 18:

Kyle smiled as Michael spoke quietly about the gossip in Roswell. Kyle was leaning against the bench, Isabel, Maria and Michael sitting on the three-seater couch. Jim was sitting at the table still, Alex in the armchair. Ava had gone to bed, purring softly in Kyle’s ear as she’d kissed him goodnight. Larek had left not long after that. Michael had laughed softly at Kyle’s defeated groan as Ava left the room, again muttering about the sucky timing.

They all looked up as footsteps sounded down the hallway, Zan scratching his head as he wandered into the kitchen, yawning widely as he tried to open his eyes. He was wearing a pair of black cargo pants, the pants worn low and loose on his slender hips, showing his muscular stomach off well. He bent over as he peered into the fridge, Kyle snorting at the long scratches on his bare back. Zan looked over his shoulder, not spotting the others yet, giving Kyle a smirk as he went back to searching the fridge.

He stood up a minute later, a container of orange juice in his hand. Turning around he paused when he saw five new faces looking at him in surprise. Shrugging, he grabbed a glass from the drainer on the sink, splashing some of the juice into the glass. “Damn man, ya look like ya went a few rounds with a hell cat,” Kyle said, grinning as Zan raised his eyebrows as he swallowed his juice. “I did,” he drawled as he put his dirty glass in the sink, Kyle snorting with laughter at Zan’s smirk.

Zan wandered around the end of the bench, hoisting himself up next to Kyle as he gazed at the people in his loft. Kyle made the introductions, Zan nodding silently as he looked them all over. Kyle peered at one of the scratches, reaching out to swipe his finger along it, Zan wincing in pain when Kyle showed him the drying blood on his finger. “Told ya she was a hell cat,” he muttered, Kyle laughing as he swept his hand over Zan’s back, healing the long scratches easily. “Who won this round?” Kyle asked. Zan smirked again. “Kyle, I’m da man,” he drawled. Kyle raised his eyebrows, Zan sighing as they looked at each other. “I left her tied to da bed” he admitted.

Kyle hooted with laughter as five jaws dropped open simultaneously, Zan snorting with laughter himself. “Man, ya right Kyle, they do believe anythin” he spluttered. Kyle howled with laughter as Zan held his stomach, tears streaming down his face. The group watched as Kyle and Zan touched fists, before Zan slid from the bench, wiping his eyes as he turned towards his room. “Liz’s still asleep. I’m gonna go back to bed. I’ll check ya’ll later” he said, shaking his head with amusement as he left the room. Kyle looked at the group of people in the room, before standing up straight, laughter sparkling in his eyes.

“Sorry ‘bout that guys” he said, Isabel shaking her head as Kyle wandered further into the lounge room. “Look, I’m mad dog tired. I’ll show ya where ya crashin, and I’ll catch up with ya’s later.” Maria stood up, staring at him silently. “Can we at least see Liz before we go?” she asked softly. Kyle glanced over his shoulder down the hallway, before nodding silently. “Just don’t wake her up. She’s a cranky bitch in the mornin.” Everyone nodded, following Kyle down the hallway quietly.

Kyle knocked on Zan’s door softly, before easing it open. Sticking his head around the edge of the door, he asked Zan softly if they could come in. Zan nodded, watching as Kyle swung the door open fully, casually walking into the room, and sitting on the end of the bed. The others paused before they entered, a soft collective sigh echoing around the room when they saw the bed.

Liz was lying on her stomach, the ivory satin sheet draped over her backside, the rest of her body bare in the dim morning light. She had her head turned towards Zan, her left hand resting near her chin as she slept. Her dark hair was spread across the pillows, and as they watched her sleep, she shifted suddenly, only to settle when Zan swept his hand over her long hair. Zan pushed her hair over her shoulder, the butterfly tattoos coming into view as he moved her hair.

Liz sighed softly, rolling into the warmth of Zan’s body, tucking her head under his chin, lifting her head as he slid his arm under her neck. Her small hand crept up his chest, her long nails painted a dark chocolate brown. Kyle stood up, gesturing towards the door as Liz crept her hand around Zan’s neck, pulling his head down to the pillow, Zan wrapping his arm around her as she settled back down again.

Kyle shut the door quietly, leading the others to the front door, and out to the elevator. He took them down to the floor below, opening a door directly under the loft. He handed the keys to his father, yawning widely as he turned the lights on. “Sorry guys, but I’m gonna jet. Get some sleep, and come up later on today. One of us will be awake by then.” Jim nodded, watching as Kyle rubbed his head as he left the apartment. He turned to the others, helping them get settled before he went to bed himself.


Part 18:

Zan walked out of the loft, knowing that he’d find Liz on the roof. Walking down the corridor, he opened the door that led to the roof, not seeing Maria as she stepped out of the lift. She saw Zan, and after a minute, followed him up onto the roof, needing to talk to him about what had happened, needing more answers.

Zan paused when he saw Liz, his stomach tightening. She was wearing a black tee shirt of his, the tight material coming to rest on her bare thighs. She was sitting on a lounge chair, staring out over the city. Zan walked slowly over to her, smirking when she slid forward on the chair, giving him room to sit behind her. Zan straddled the lounge chair, keeping his bare feet on the ground as he pulled Liz into his arms, smiling when she settled her body between his open thighs.

“Why ya hidin up here?” he asked. Liz shrugged. “I know they’re here. I’m just not ready to face them yet.” Zan frowned slightly as he tilted his head, looking into her pale eyes. She had her emotions switched off, yet as he stared at her, her eyes flickered between ice blue and cobalt blue. Liz turned her gaze from his, looking out over the city again. She sighed when Zan tilted her head, forcing her to meet his gaze.

“What’s goin on in da pretty little head of yours?” he murmered. Liz sighed as she sat up, curling her body around his as she faced him. “I’ve changed Zan. Not only physically, but up here as well.” Zan watched as she tapped the side of her head. “I want to be honest with everyone, and the only way I can do that is if I turn off. But I don’t want to do that with Maria. She’s been my girl since we were little kids Zan.”

Zan nodded slowly, before waiting for Liz to continue. “If I turn off, Maria will get the honesty that she deserves. The truth about what I’ve been through. But at the same token Zan, I know that I’ll end up being cold for the entire time they are here.” Zan sighed as he trailed his fingers over her bare thighs, smelling the scent of her skin as he brushed his lips over her shoulder.

“Ya wanna be able to tell her about da change, and what it was like, with out sparkin like an electric wire.” Liz nodded, waiting as he glanced down at her. “Then I suggest ya switch off, and when ya done, switch on. But ya let them know that once it’s out there, ya don’t discuss it again.” Liz nodded, smiling when he brushed his lips over hers. She slid from the chair, taking his hand as he stood up. Turning around, they came face to face with Maria.

The two girls stared at each other, before Liz simply held her hand out. Maria ran across the roof, folding Liz into a tight embrace, her head buried against Liz’s shoulder as they held each other. Zan smiled as he walked inside, leaving them to their reunion. Neither of them realised he’d gone, both too caught up in the moment.

Maria pulled away a minute later, cupping Liz’s face in her hands. Her eyes travelled over Liz’s face, taking in the strange blue of her eyes, and the changes that were flickering in them. Maria shook her head as Liz went to speak, pressing her fingers over her lips to keep her silent. “Not yet. I’m here for a week, we have time.” Liz nodded, flashing Maria a bright smile as they returned to the building. “Where’s Alex?” Liz asked, grinning when Maria pointed down stairs.

They entered the apartment quietly, Liz smiling as she entered the room Alex and Isabel were sharing. Isabel was in the shower, Alex sprawled across the bed as he slept. Maria pointed across the hallway, giving Liz and Alex the time they needed. Liz entered the room quietly, crawling across the bed to where Alex’s head was resting. Curling up on her side, Liz ran her finger down the centre of his nose, smiling when he wrinkled his nose. She repeated her action, smiling softly when he opened his eyes.

Alex’s breath caught in his throat when he saw Liz looking at him, her blue eyes glowing slightly in the dim light. A single tear slid down his face, Liz catching it with her fingertip as they continued to look at each other. Liz laid her hand on his cheek, her thumb sweeping the remaining dampness from under his eye. Alex sat up slowly, reaching out to touch her face, before pulling her into his arms, their sighs mingling as they held each other silently. “Your so beautiful” Alex whispered, Liz chuckling softly into his shoulder before she pulled away.

“I’m sorry Alex” she whispered suddenly, pain flickering across her face as they looked at each other. “For what?” he asked. Liz smiled sadly. “For lying when I promised I wouldn’t. For what I’ve put you through.” Alex shook his head. “Sorry for saving our lives?. Sorry for keeping danger away from my family, my friends and the blonde temptress who I love more than anything in the world?.” Liz smiled crookedly. “For all of it” she whispered.

Alex shook his head sadly. “It’s us who should be apologising Liz. For not being there when you needed us. For not realising there was something wrong. And for not fighting to keep you and Kyle close when you started to pull away. If we’d fought harder, then none of this would be happening. You’d still be in Roswell, with Max by your side.” Liz smirked at that, shaking her head silently.

“This started because of Max. When he healed us, he started this. As for being with Max, that was all part of a lie. He and I haven’t been together since I came back from Florida. And even if I was in Roswell, I’d still be with Zan.” Alex looked at her strangely, Liz sighing before she pulled the edge of her top up, revealing the base of her back. At the bottom of her spine was a small crown, an entwining Z and L on the front. “I belong to him Alex. I belong with him. This is my destiny. Max’s was always with Tess.” Alex looked at the tattoo in surprise, reaching out to brush his fingers over the small crown.

Liz stared at him for a long minute, before sliding from the bed. “We’re goin out tonight. Tell Maria and Isabel to dress up, and not to wear white. The club we’re goin to turns the sprinklers on every now and then. Ya don’t were white unless ya on display.” Alex shook his head in silence. “Nah, tonight ya gonna tell us what the hell happened to you and Kyle. We can go out tomorrow night.” Liz smirked. “If ya think ya ready for it, then fine.” Alex nodded, watching in silence as Liz left the room. Maria ran in a few minutes later, sitting down next to Alex. “What’d ya think?” she asked quickly. Alex shrugged slowly. “Too early to tell yet.” Maria nodded, knowing that they were all looking for a sign that Liz was still Liz.

Part 19:

Kyle answered the door later on that day, smirking as the others followed him into the loft. He sank into the beanbag with Ava, feeling her wrap her legs around his waist as he sat between her legs. Zan was slouched in the armchair, Liz curled up on his lap. Her long dark hair was caught up in a ponytail, and as the other walked into the room, they watched in silence as Zan kissed Liz, the kiss heated and passionate. Kyle snorted at the shocked looks they were getting, reaching out to tap Zan on the foot.

Zan broke the kiss with a soft snarl, Maria reaching for Michael’s hand at the sound. Liz turned around on his lap, smirking when he slid his hands across her bare stomach. Michael and Maria joined Jim on the couch, Alex and Isabel sharing a beanbag on the floor as Liz stood up. She stretched as she padded across the room, turning the kettle on for coffee. Zan followed her a minute later, wrapping his arms around her waist as she measured coffee into the jug.

Liz turned in his embrace, tilting her head back for him as he pulled her closer to him. Maria couldn’t help staring as Zan picked Liz up and sat her on the bench, standing between her thighs as they kissed. His chest was bare, his lower body clad in baggy blue jeans. They both had bare feet, and as Maria turned to face Kyle and Ava, she realised something. They were all wearing blue jeans, they all had bare feet, and Liz was wearing an olive green tank top, Ava was wearing a pale grey tank top, Ava’s hair was also up in a ponytail, and Kyle’s chest also bare.

She shook her head when a tray of coffee was suddenly placed in front of them, silent as Zan sat back down, Liz sliding into his lap like it was the most natural thing in the world. Maria watched as Liz’s eyes flickered between pale blue and dark blue, noticing that Kyle’s eyes had also changed colour. “Why are your eyes different?” she asked softly. Liz smiled, the blue of her eyes going icy cold as she started to speak, her emotions turned off.

“If ya check Zan and Ava out, they have unusual eyes as well. When an alien hijacks a human, their eyes glow the colour of the alien in the drivers seat. With us, the alien is always there. Max and company are hybrids, so their eyes are human. Zan isn’t a hybrid, not in the sense of the word. He looks like a human, but on the inside, he is pure alien. So is Ava. So are me and Kyle.”

Michael leant forward, surprised at the look of pure distrust on Zan’s face. “How were you changed?” he asked softly. Kyle shrugged. “When Max healed us, he changed us. If Larek hadn’t found out, we would have ended up dying anyway. Our bodies wouldn’t have been able to handle the change, and would have simply given up.” Isabel shook her head in surprise. “But Max saved you both” she exclaimed. Zan snorted. “Yeah, and what a bang up job he did too” he snorted.

Michael glanced at him in surprise. “What’s ya problem man?” he asked. Liz shook her head, placing a warning finger to Zan’s mouth. “Not yet Zan. Cool ya jets.” He nodded as he sighed, his eyes slowly fading from a deep gold to a pale gold, almost white as he switched off. “How were you changed?” Alex asked. Liz glanced at Zan for support, the others watching as Zan sat up straight. The room hummed for a minute, before a bright sphere of light appeared, hovering over the table.

Everyone watched as Broadie entered the room, crossing to a table on which Liz was laying on. He pressed his hands to her forehead, Liz’s mouth opening in a silent scream as he slowly buried her human side. “That’s Larek. His powers are making my human side die. The blue fluid you see draining into my veins is Lonnie’s essence, her powers. They are replacing my human essence, with pure alien DNA.” Maria’s mouth dropped open, watching as the image slowly faded, replaced with Kyle being treated to the same process, the mixture a pale silver colour.

The image was replaced with one of a large bed, a silken cocoon spread over the bed. It shifted as Kyle and Liz moved under it, the webbing splitting as she sat up, her back naked as Kyle sat up beside her, their mouths coming together in a heated kiss. The image faded as it was replaced with a scene of Ava and Kyle kissing, of Ava holding Liz’s hair off her shoulders and face as she was violently ill. You could see Kyle in the corner, Larek holding him as he was wracked with tremors, his face deathly pale.

“You feel like you’ve been chewed up and spat out” Kyle said, remembering all to well the feelings of pain. “Liz and I started sleepin together the first night we were subjected to the essence swap. The alien gets into your blood stream, and it’s like liquid fire in ya veins. Ya body heats up, and no matter how many showers ya take, or how many ice baths ya plunged into, the only fix is to make with the lovin. It’s hard and violent, and god help ya if ya part human. I nearly broke Liz in half on a number of separate occasions.”

“Why did Ava tell us Zan was dead?” Isabel asked softly. Ava sat forward, the sphere wavering for a moment before the scene faded, a different image coming forth. They watched as Zan crawled out of his pod, straight into a sewer. He looked to be four, and he huddled naked near the other lower pod, Ava clearly visible in the glowing pod. The image shifted as it was replaced, showing Zan and Ava in bed together, their movements fluid as they had sex, Isabel guessing they were only about fourteen. “Zan and I bumped when we were only thirteen, and we stayed together until we turned fifteen. Between us, we nailed anythin that moved, including each other, and in my case, Rath.”

The image changed, showing Larek telling Zan and Ava about the plot Lonnie and Rath had against him. The knowledge he carried around for the next eighteen months, until the fateful night it happened. Isabel winced as she watched Lonnie bounce a ball past Zan, who reached for it. Rath shoved him into the path of a truck. The scene switched to Ava, who watched as Zan was hit by the truck, her eyes sliding shut as she made them see him broken and dead in the street. “Da idiots forgot that ya can’t kill us on earth. That ya have to do up there.” They watched as Zan stood up, his face covered in blood as Larek helped him from the street.

The image was replaced with one of Zan watching Max in his place at the summit meeting. The meeting finished, Lonnie and Rath being caught as they returned to the sewers. Lonnie’s shock when she saw Zan, and her vow of revenge as she was executed. Rath shaking as his head as Lonnie died, the control on his mind gone. Zan pleading with him to change his mind as Rath shook his head, insisting on a life for a life. “I tried to kill ya duke. It’s only fair. My life for yours.” Zan putting his fist through the wall as Rath died. Michael blowing something near Ava’s head up when she wouldn’t speak.

Michael looked at Zan, who simply flicked his wrist, Michael crying out as he felt the invisible punch to the side of his face. “Ya don’t throw down with me and mine” Zan warned, Michael knowing he had deserved it. The images faded completely, Isabel sitting forward again. “Ok, but why didn’t you tell us the truth?.” Liz raised her eyebrows. “What’s the point Isabel?. So Max could control us even further than he already did?. No thanks.”

Michael sat forward slightly, his face stained a pale pink as he voiced his next question. “What do you mean by fire?” he asked. Zan and Liz glanced at each other, before Liz smirked slowly. “Ya really wanna know?” she asked. Michael nodded, surprised when Liz beckoned to him. Standing up he crossed the room to her, kneeling down when she told him too. She leant forward, catching his mouth in a sudden kiss, Michael shuddering when he felt his body flair with sudden heat.

He reached out blindly, shuddering again when he felt Zan’s hands grab his, bringing them around Liz’s waist. She broke the kiss a minute later, Michael stumbling as he tried to stand up. “Oh sh*t” he gasped, Maria stunned into silence when she took his hand, feeling how hot his skin was. “What was it like?” she whispered, Michael glancing at her with glazed eyes. “Try it your self” was all he could say, closing his eyes as he flopped onto the couch. Maria looked at him in shock, surprised when she felt a hand tilt her chin up. Looking up, she watched in silence as Zan lowered his head to hers, his tongue sliding into her mouth when she gasped in shock. He kept the kiss brief, and when Maria opened her eyes, he was already back with Liz.

Isabel and Alex looked at Maria and Michael in silence, before looking at each other. They were both panting slightly, their skin flushed and covered in a light sheen of sweat. “I’ll try it if you will” Alex said quietly, Isabel nodding as Ava and Kyle crossed the room to them. Alex groaned as Ava’s mouth closed over his, hearing Isabel’s soft gasp as Kyle kissed her. “Alien lovin, gets em hot every time” Zan whispered to Liz, feeling her body shake with silent laughter as he pressed his groin against her backside.

Part 20:

Zan answered the door, stepping aside to let the others in. Jim had decided to stay home, letting the group of friends have some fun on their own. They followed Zan into the kitchen, all staring at each other as they waited for Liz and Ava to finish getting ready. Zan leant against the counter, taking in their appearances, watching as they took in his. He was wearing his black leather pants, with a tight sleeveless white top. Chunky black boots topped his appearance off, pure punk.

Michael and Alex were both wearing baggy blue jeans, Alex with a loose fitting black shirt, Michael wearing a tight black tee shirt. Both had boots on, their appearances casual. Maria was wearing a short pink and black chequered skirt, with a dark pink tank top, and black knee high boots, her long honey hair in a cascade of curls. Isabel was wearing a short red dress, the material similar to what silk looked like when it was wet. Her hair was pinned to the top of her head, her lipstick matching her dress, as did the red high heels she was wearing, that laced up her legs to just below her knees.

Kyle wandered out, Zan smirking slightly when the girl’s jaws dropped open. He was also wearing black leather pants, with a sheer white shirt, which he’d left unbuttoned. His hair was tousled as normal, his footsteps heavy in the black boots he was wearing. Ava appeared a few minutes later, nodding in time to the pounding music that was blaring through the loft. Kyle whistled at her outfit, Ava giving him a twirl as she neared him.

She was wearing a black and red Chinese style dress, the sides split to mid thigh, the keyhole showing off a dangerous amount of cleavage. Her blonde curls were freshly streaked red, and pinned messily to the top of her head. She was wearing knee high leather boots, her make up dark around the eyes, her mouth pale and glossy. “Liz won’t be long,” she shouted over the music, Zan nodding as he slid his wallet into his pocket, the silver chain glinting against his pants.

A whistle caught his attention, smirking when he caught sight of Liz. She was also wearing leather pants, but hers were the colour of chocolate, the leather tight around her backside before becoming a boot cut. Her top was black and silver, revealing and sexy. It was black in the front, silver chains holding the back together. The front dipped in a V shaped neckline, the straps shoestrings. It was backless except for the thin silver chains, which glinted against her tanned skin. Her hair was in a messy bun at the back of her head, her eye make up dark, her lips also pale and glossy. She was wearing black leather boots, adding a few inches to her height.

Zan smirked as she rounded the counter, dropping a kiss on her up turned mouth. Liz grinned at her friends as they stared at her, before taking Zan’s hand. “Come on guys, it’s gonna be great. Lets party.” Kyle hooted as he started towards the front door, Ava close behind him. They all crowded into the elevator, laughter finally flowing between them.

Zan slung his arm around Liz as they started walking towards Heat, his stride open, confident and cocky. As they turned the corner where the nightclub was, Ricky spotted them. He waved them forward, letting them straight in. Zan smirked as he slapped hands with the man, his face relaxing as they entered the club. Liz started swaying her hips as they entered the club, the pounding music vibrating through her body as Zan nipped her shoulder.

“Go play, but play nice” she warned, grinning when he slapped her backside. Taking Maria’s hand, Liz led the girls out onto the dance floor, checking the clock as she did. Liz pointed the time out to Ava, who nodded. Isabel looked at Liz in confusion, laughing when Liz explained they had an hour until the next drenching. Liz and Ava started dancing together, teaching Isabel and Maria a few steps as they went.

Zan and Kyle slid into one side of the booth, watching as Alex and Michael took up the other side. The four guys stared at each other, before Michael finally leant forward. “I’m not Rath. I have no interest in going home. My place is here with Maria. As for the sitch ya have going here, as long as you look after Liz and Kyle, we’ll get along fine.” Zan smirked, before leaning forward slightly. “Talk all ya like man. I trust three people. My man here, and my two girls. That’s where I draw da line. Step up or step off. We’ll get on fine, but don’t cross me. I’ve already killed ya dupe, and I knew him in two lives. What’s sayin I won’t do da same to you?.”

Zan slid from the booth, Kyle shaking his head as he watched Zan head for the bar. Michael looked at him in shock. “Hey man, what’s up with up?” he asked. Kyle snorted. “Please Michael. Ya playin with the big boys now, not Max. Zan grew up in the sewers remember. Add the fact that Lonnie and Rath shoved him in front of a truck, and the man has the right to have trust issues. Ya should remember that before ya start throwing down with him.” Alex looked up. “We’re just worried about you and Liz,” he said softly.

Kyle snorted with laughter, both guys noticing that his eyes were a pale silver colour. “Quit worrying. Zan loves Liz. More than Max ever did anyway.” Michael snapped his head up, shock on his face at Kyle’s words. “He’s only known her a month” he exclaimed. Kyle started laughing softly. “They’ve lived together for a month. But Zan’s known about Liz since the day Max healed her. And he’s wanted her for longer than that. He just didn’t have a name to go with the face that haunted him from the day he fell into a pile of sh*t in the sewers. You guys were close to six. Zan emerged when he was four, and he waited for two years, guarding his family and for what?. So his psycho sister could kill him?.” Kyle shook his head, before heading off to join Zan.

Alex and Michael looked at each other in silence, before with a sigh, Michael headed for the bar. He tapped Zan on the shoulder, wincing when he spun around, a tick evident in his jaw. “Look man, I’m sorry. I know that ya doing the right thing with Kyle and Liz. It’s just hard, knowing their alive, and not being able to see them, or hear Liz laugh, or Kyle praise Buddha to the high heavens.” Zan smirked. “He does throw Buddha around a bit” he admitted, letting a truce form between them.

[kerri240879]

Part 21:

Liz smiled as Zan stepped onto the dance floor, sharing a look of amusement with Ava as girls all over the dance floor followed him and Kyle with their eyes. Maria and Isabel had joined Michael and Alex in a booth, and the four of them were watching as Zan and Kyle joined Liz and Ava on the dance floor. Zan smirked as Liz ran her hands down her scantily clad body, before beckoning to him with her fingertips, her hands at hip level.

Zan slid his arms around Liz’s hips slowly, before sliding them down her backside and back up again to the small of her back. Liz smirked as he pulled her against him, tilting her head to the side as he began to move with her, their movements provocative and sexy. They danced well together, people watching as they swayed in time to the music.

Kyle glanced up at the clock, grinning as the numbers began to count down, signalling only minutes until the water would drench the dance floor. The black eyed peas began to thump through the club, “Lets get it started” causing Liz to start laughing as Zan turned her around, his hands holding her hips against his groin as Ava walked towards her, a knowing smile on her face.

A crowd began to form around them as Liz slid her left hand over Ava’s shoulder, beckoning to Kyle who smirked as he danced closer to Ava, his body mimicking her movements as she danced with Liz. Liz chuckled as she rolled her hips against Zan’s groin, hearing his soft hiss in response to her teasing. The DJ lifted the microphone to his lips to begin the countdown as Zan turned Liz to face him again.

Zan pulled Liz flush against his body, tilting her back over his arm slowly, before pulling her back up the right way. Liz smirked as he lowered his head, claiming her mouth in a heated kiss, his tongue dipping into her mouth, teasing and tasting as the clock counted down to zero. The sprinklers turned on suddenly, drenching everyone on the dance floor in a matter of seconds, steam rising from the floor as the cool water hit the heated floor.

Isabel, Michael, Alex and Maria watched in amazement as Zan kissed Liz in a heated way, all laughing when the water started suddenly, drenching the couple as they continued to kiss. Zan pulled Liz’s hair free from the bun, her long hair a slick trail of water down her back. Zan tangled his hand in her heavy hair, tugging her head back as he trailed his lips down her wet throat. The water continued to rain from the roof, Zan sucking it from her skin as they danced. His shoulders shifted as he turned slightly, his shirt see through as he pulled Liz’s mouth back to his.

Isabel noticed Zan’s tattoo on his back for the first time, pointing it out to Michael. Just below the angel was a name. Liz. Isabel shared a silent look with Michael, both beginning to understand that the old Liz was dead and buried, and that the Liz in front of them was lost to Max forever. She belonged to Zan in way that Max would never understand. They shared a heat, which you could feel from across the room.

Maria glanced around, noticing the girls who where looking at Zan with longing in their eyes. It was obvious to everyone that he was with Liz. The tattoo on the base of his spine confirmed it. Maria smiled suddenly, pulling Michael out onto the dance floor, both getting wet through to the skin in seconds. Alex looked at Isabel who sighed, before flashing him a bright smile. The eight of them danced together, the water stopping as suddenly as it had started.

A strobe light started flashing, Liz blinking in sudden confusion as her eyes were momentarily blinded. A sharp pain in the base of her back had her pulling out of Zan’s arms, twisting around as she lost her sense of direction. The world tilted suddenly, Liz blinking slowly as a young boy walked through the crowd towards her. She slowly turned to face Zan, watching as he fought the crowd to reach her, before she passed out, the world going black.

Part 22:

Zan felt Liz pull away from his suddenly, blinking in confusion as he tried to see through the flashing lights. He spotted her a second later, watching in horror as she turned to face him, a small dart hanging out of the base of her back. Zan saw something behind her that had his heart stopping. Nicolas smirked at him as Liz passed out, the small alien catching Liz easily before she hit the ground.

Kyle felt Zan’s sudden burst of fear and anger, and turned to find him. He saw movement out of the corner of his eye, and watching as Zan fought the crowd to reach something. Turning his head, he watched in shock as Nicolas swung Liz into his arms, before simply vanishing from sight. Zan spun for the entrance, Kyle dragging Ava after him. Michael and Alex followed, Isabel and Maria not far behind them.

Zan broke out of the crowd onto the footpath, Kyle appearing beside him a minute later. Ava stumbled as she reached them, a horrified cry springing from her mouth as she stumbled. Kyle caught her easily, Ava bursting into tears as he held her up, smoothing her wet curls from her face. “Oh god Zan, she’s in pain. Somethin's blockin her ability to switch off.” Zan pulled Ava to him, the others looking at them in confusion.

Kyle spun to face them as Michael stepped forward, his face a mask of anger, his eyes like silver led in the streetlights. “Nicolas took Liz. He’s done something to her so she can’t turn her emotions off, which is why Zan, Aves and I can feel her. We’re gonna find her. Ya need to take Ava back to the loft. She knows what to do, and what to get ready.”

“Which way did da bastard take her Aves?” Zan pleaded. She opened her eyes suddenly, the purple depths nearly black. “Under ground Zan. Ya better hurry. Kivar’s on his way.” Michael turned to Zan as he handed Ava to Alex. “I’ll help you,” he said. Zan nodded coolly. “If ya can keep up” he spat, before running down the street. Michael and Kyle kept stride with him easily, taking the stairs three at a time as they ran into the train station.

Michael heard the train approaching, and watched in surprise as Kyle grabbed his wrist. Kyle put on an extra burst of speed, all three guys racing the train as it pulled into the station. As they neared the end of the platform, Zan jumped in front of the slowing train, not loosing his balance as he hit the tracks in a dead run. Michael watched as in slow motion Kyle pulled him down onto the tracks after Zan, the train just missing them as they continued to chase after Zan.

Zan’s cell phone rang, his anger bubbling as Liz’s fear and pain continued to roll along his spine as he answered the phone. “Yo” he panted as he continued to run, listening intently to Ava as he rounded a corner, pausing before he snapped his phone shut. “She’s in our old crib” he called to Kyle, before taking off again, Michael breathing heavily as he tried in vain to keep up with Zan and Kyle, who gave no indication of slowing down.

They ran blindly, all pulling to a sudden stop as a scream of pain echoed through the tunnels, followed by softer sobbing. Zan swore angrily, before taking off again, his powers building as he jumped an old wooden crate, hearing Kyle and Michael right behind him. He burst through the entrance to the old lair, his heart nearly stopping at the sight before him. His powers spun along his body suddenly, before bursting out of his hands. Michael stopped in amazement as Zan simply held his hands apart, a wave of white energy pouring off him as he closed his eyes.

Zan shut his eyes, the image before him burnt into his brain. Liz was facing away from him, her hands tied above her head, keeping her on her tiptoes as her head hung forward. The ropes that bound her wrists hung from the ceiling, the rope cutting into the delicate skin of her wrists. Her top hung in shreds, her back a mass of welts and blood, whip marks visible from where he stood.

Anger bubbled up in him when he spotted Nicolas and three lower level skins standing behind her, Nicolas holding a whip in his hand, a sharp knife in the other. His anger burst free, the white light catching all four skins easily before they could run. They all howled in pain, before simply exploding into a cloud of floating skin partials. Zan pulled his powers in straight away, bolting across the room to Liz. Grabbing the knife Nicolas has dropped when Zan killed him, he slid his arm around Liz, wincing when she cried out in pain. Zan reached up, cutting through the ropes easily, Liz slumping in his arms as she fell.

Zan sank to his knees, pushing the wet tendrils of hair from her face, as he looked her over. He looked around wildly, nodding his thanks as Kyle and Michael began to look for something to cover Liz with. Michael swept a curtain out of the way, pausing when he saw the pods suspended on the wall. He spotted a blanket in one of the lower ones, and reached in to grab it, before running back to Zan. Liz was crying in his arms, Zan whispering as he tried to make her fall asleep. “Come on baby” he whispered again in desperation, Liz sobbing as she tried to block the pain out.

Zan looked up at Kyle for silent support, Kyle nodding as Zan knelt up. “Sorry baby” he whispered, Michael gasping when Zan’s fist connected solidly with her jaw. Liz slumped in his arms as she passed out, Zan letting a shaky sob out. Kyle pressed his hand against Zan’s shoulder. “She’ll understand Zan.” Zan nodded silently as he
wrapped Liz in the blanket, before swinging her easily into his arms. They started back down the tunnel, Kyle explaining to Michael that he would need to guide him as he used his powers. Michael nodded, helping Kyle up onto the platform, before taking Liz as Zan hoisted himself up as well. He handed Liz back over to Zan, before taking Kyle’s elbow, surprised to see he had his eyes shut.

Kyle kept his eyes shut, making people see the three of them joking as they walked down the street. When the elevator doors slid shut, he opened his eyes, slumping slightly as he pulled his powers back in. Sighing in relief, he turned to face Zan, his anger close to the surface when he saw blood running down Zan’s bare arm, the blanket already wet with it. The doors slid open, Zan striding quickly to the loft. Ava pulled the door open as they reached it, nodding when Zan asked her if his room was ready. Jim had joined them, and as Zan swept into the lounge room, he snorted with anger. Max and Tess were sitting on the couch, Jim, Maria, Alex and Isabel watching them nervously.

Part 23:

Max stood up as Zan swept into the room, his face paling when he saw Liz unconscious in Zan’s arms. “What happened to her?” he cried, following Zan down the hallway when he ignored his question. Zan knelt one knee on the edge of his bed as the others crowded into his room. Ignoring them, he laid Liz down, rolling her onto her stomach to keep the pressure off her back. Soft gasps echoed around the room as Zan stood back up, the front of his white top covered with Liz’s blood. Zan pulled his top off, tossing it aside as Kyle stood beside him. Max saw the tattoo on his back, and felt his anger start to surface.

Max stepped forward, pushing past Zan as he looked at Liz. Zan snorted, and raised his eyebrows. “What do ya think ya doin?” he spat. Max turned around, blinking at the anger on Zan’s face. “I want to heal her” he said, faltering when Zan gave a short bark of laughter. “She won’t let ya duke. So step off” he snapped, Max shaking his head. Kyle lost his temper, grabbing Max by the shirt and shoving him out of the way.

“Ya done enough already Max. So sit ya punk ar*e down.” Max looked wounded, Kyle snorting when Max stood up again. A soft moan broke the fight up, all eyes swinging to Liz as she lifted her head. “Zan?” she whispered. Zan sat down beside her, running his hand over her hair softly. “I’m here baby.” Liz opened her eyes slowly, swallowing when her throat began to tighten in pain. “It hurts” she whispered, a single tear streaking through the dirt and blood on her face.

Zan shut his eyes for a second, switching his emotions off as he opened them again. “Liz, ya know da deal. I gotta heal ya.” Liz nodded slightly, wincing when Zan swept his thumb over her split lip, healing the cut as he did. She screamed when he placed his hands on her shoulders, biting back a sob as he removed them. They locked eyes, Liz nodding at his silent question. “Do it” she whispered.

Zan nodded, speaking softly to Kyle who shuddered, before leaving the room. He returned a few minutes later, ignoring the gasps when they saw what was in his hands. Zan pulled Liz into a sitting position, Maria bursting into tears when she saw Liz properly. One eye was swollen shut, a dark bruise settling over her cheek. She had shallow cuts on her stomach and chest, the blood running freely through her shredded top. The gathered group watched as Zan shielded Liz from view as he removed the remains of her top as Kyle untied the cut ropes on her wrists.

Kyle handed Zan a thin hand towel, nodding when Zan tilted Liz’s face up so he could look at her. “Ya sure baby?” he whispered softly. Liz nodded, another tear sliding down her cheek as Zan brushed his lips over hers. She glanced at Kyle as he snapped a pair of handcuffs around each wrist, before pressing a kiss to her palm. She felt Zan press the cloth against lips, opening her mouth so she could bite down on the soft material.

Max started to stand up as Zan tied the cloth behind her head, gagging her mouth tightly before he laid her gently back down on her stomach. Michael grabbed his arm, pulling him back down to the floor, a warning look on his face. They watched as Kyle cuffed her hands to the top of the bed, before lacing his fingers through hers. His hands turned white as she squeezed them, her pain radiating off her in waves.

Kyle and Zan shared a long silent look, before Zan straddled Liz’s thighs, gripping the blanket by the edge near her shoulders. As he lifted it away, it stuck to the drying blood on her back. Zan shot Kyle a look, before glancing at Ava. The blonde moved closer to the bed, waving her hand as she did. The others felt the energy burst, knowing that she had sound proofed the room. Michael shut the bedroom door, reaching for Maria as he turned back to the scene on the bed.

Zan took a deep breath and ripped the blanket from her back, Liz arching as she screamed in pain. She started sobbing as Zan laid his bare hands on her torn back, his hands glowing white as he gently moved them over her skin. Isabel started to cry silently as Liz arched again, her sobs and screams muffled by the gag around her mouth. Kyle winced as she dug her long nails into his hands, blood welling as the skin broke, leaving crimson trails down his hands as the blood ran freely. Zan moved his hands slowly along her back, the muscles and skin repairing before his eyes as he moved his hands lower. When he reached the lower section of her spine he cursed loudly.

Ava reached out, placing her hands over his as he concentrated his energy on a single spot. The others watched in horror as a broken dart tip appeared on the surface of Liz’s skin, Ava picking it up as she removed her hands from Zan’s. She held it up to the light, Zan glancing at it quickly before he let his energy flow along Liz’s spine. Kyle let out a shuddering breath, Zan looking up as he slumped to the floor. “She’s out cold again Zan. Keep goin.” Zan sat up, wiping his hand across his face, leaving a smear of crimson blood near his eye. He climbed off the bed, turning to face Ava.

“Run a bath will ya Aves?. Add some of da stuff Larek gave us.” She nodded, leaving the room as Kyle unlocked the handcuffs. Zan rolled Liz onto her back, moving his hands slowly over her chest and stomach, healing the cuts as he did. Kyle reached out slowly, running his hand over her face as he lent Zan some energy, knowing he was ready to pass out. The swelling in her eye and cheek disappeared slowly, the bruise fading as Zan finished healing the rest of her body. He nodded his thanks as Kyle healed the cuts on her wrists brought on by the ropes, before gripping Zan’s hand suddenly.

Zan arched as Kyle fed him some much-needed energy, the bond between them now unbreakable. They stared at each other, before Kyle smirked slightly. “I got ya back man.” Zan nodded, before gripping Kyle’s hand tightly. “And I got yours” he said, standing up as Ava came back into the room. Zan glanced around the room, before asking everyone to leave. He turned back to the bed, undoing the buttons on Liz’s pants slowly. Ava tugged her boots off, helping Zan strip her from the clothes.

Zan glanced down at himself as he stood up, noticing for the first time the dried blood on his chest and arms. Sighing softly, he stripped down out of his clothes, before wrapping a towel around his waist. Picking Liz up off the bed, he gave Ava a soft smile as he headed for the bathroom. Ava followed him into the bathroom, taking the towel from around his waist as Zan stepped into the bath, sliding down into the sunken tub, Liz resting in his arms.

Part 24:

Ava walked into the lounge room, letting Kyle pull her into his arms. She buried her face against his chest, finally giving way to her tears. Kyle rubbed her back slowly, murmuring softly in her ear as he calmed her down. Lifting her head, she gave him a watery smile, Kyle brushing his lips over hers lightly. “We need to change da bed” she murmered, Kyle nodding as he followed her back to Zan’s room. They stripped the blood soaked sheets from the bed, Ava using her powers to clean the mattress. Grabbing some black satin sheets, they made the bed back up, Ava adding a thick mink blanket before they returned to the lounge room.

Jim looked up as his son re-entered the room, his face pale and drawn. “How’s Liz?” he asked softly. Kyle shrugged, his eyes glowing pale silver in the dim lights from the lamps. “Dunno. She’s in the bath with Zan. She’s safe and healed if that’s what ya mean” he spat. Jim recoiled slightly, the whole room recognising an alien side of Kyle that they weren’t used to seeing. Kyle was cold and with drawn, everyone noticing that only Ava was making a difference, the blonde rubbing his hands with hers as she healed the cuts from Liz’s nails, their eyes locked in silent communication.

Kyle suddenly spun around to face Max and Tess. “What the f*#k are ya doin here?” he snarled softly. Max had the decency to blush as he raised his head. “I got the address from Mom. I wasn’t sure on why we hadn’t been invited as well.” Kyle snorted angrily. “The reason being Maxie boy, is coz Liz and I didn’t want ya here.” Max blinked in surprise, before standing up. “Why are you so angry Kyle? I’m not the one who lied to everyone. That was you and Liz,” he cried angrily.

Kyle snorted softly, staring Max down. “Lies hey Max?. What about the lie you told Liz?. Ya know, about not cheatin on her with Tess?” he asked softly. Max blinked in surprise, before sitting back down silently. Tess lowered her head in shame, biting back her tears as Kyle crossed the room, forcing her to meet his gaze. “We knew all along Tess. We were fine with it, but Max couldn’t let her go, just like he’ll try to convince Liz that they belong together now he knows the truth.”

Kyle turned to face Max slowly, contempt visible in his eyes. “Only difference is Maxie boy, Zan isn’t me, and he won’t back down on this. Liz belongs to him, and I’ll be damned if ya think ya gonna break that relationship up. Zan’s my best friend, and he’s also my King. So find yaself warned. Go near her, and I’ll bring a whole house of pain down on ya ar*e.” Kyle shoved himself to his feet, stalking from the room in anger.

Ava sighed as she stood up, asking the others to leave him alone. Jim asked her if she’d mind if they waited to see Liz, Ava shrugging as she kicked her shoes off. “What ever. I’m goin to Kyle. He needs me. Liz needs Zan. Ya better off waitin until tomorrow to see her. Zan’ll probably take her straight to bed. They both need to rest.” Jim turned to face her, asking her a soft question as she started to leave the room.

“Is this what you meant by Kivar using them as pawns?” he asked. Ava smirked slightly. “What happened to Liz tonight was a warnin, an example of what Kivar’s capable off. Da only thing Kivar didn’t bank on was da fact that Zan and Liz love each other, and if I know Zan as well as I think I do, Kivar’s now got a war on his hands. Ya don’t move against Zan or his family, with out startin one. Da punks goin down. Zan’s gonna rip his spine out.” Ava snorted softly at the looks on their faces, before leaving the room, joining Kyle in their bedroom.

Maria rubbed her arms briskly, before standing up to pace the room. Turning abruptly, she walked down the hallway to the bathroom, knocking softly on the shut door. Opening it she entered the steamy room, shutting the door behind her as she turned around. A pale blush stained her cheeks as she glanced at the bath, Zan smirking as he beckoned to her silently. Maria sat beside the bath, taking the scene before her in.

Zan’s hair was dripping wet, the longish strands slicked back over his head. He was leaning against the edge of the bath, his head resting on the edge as he gazed at her silently. Liz was curled up in his lap, her head resting on his shoulder as she slept, her long dark hair glistening with water. She had her back to Maria, the water sliding over her skin as Zan held her in his arms. The water was stained a pale pink, Maria realising it was from the blood.

“Is she ok?” she whispered. Zan glanced down at Liz’s face, a slight frown crossing his face. “Yeah. She just needs to sleep.” Maria sighed shakily, wiping her fingers under her eyes as Zan continued to watch her silently. Maria took a calming breath, sniffing the moist air in sudden appreciation. “What’s that smell?” she asked. Zan grinned. “Home” he stated. Maria raised her eyebrows, waiting for him to elaborate.

Zan sighed, shifting Liz in his arms slightly before continuing. “Ya smell cinnamon, chilli, ocean and cut grass. Ya also smell them as sperate scents. Take the smell in here and ya have what Antar smells like. Larek said it’s what keeps aliens alive. When I was hurt, he gave me a bottle of da stuff to help heal me.” Maria blinked in surprise. “I thought it was a mind warp,” she said. Zan smirked. “Da fact I was dead in da street was da warp. Da truck hittin me wasn’t. That was real.” Maria nodded, still confused about it, but realising Zan didn’t want to talk about it anymore.

Standing up, she walked to the door, pausing as she turned back to face Zan. “I thought I knew what love was.” Zan glanced at her, waiting for her to continue. Maria smiled sadly. “I was wrong. Love is what you are doing right now. Taking care of Liz when she needs it, and she’s letting you. She doesn’t let anyone help her Zan, and if she feels safe enough for you to help her, then you’re a good guy in my books.”

Zan nodded in silence as he shared a long look with Maria, before she backed out of the room. She never saw Max walk past her into Zan’s room as she returned to the others, nor did they notice him gone. Zan looked down at Liz, a smile crossing his face when she peeked up at him. “I knew ya were awake” he whispered. Liz just looked at him, Zan sighing as he helped her from the bath. Drying them both quickly, he pulled a pair of sweat pants on. Wrapping the towel around Liz, he helped her into their room.

[kerri240879]

Part 25:

Max slid behind the heavy curtains as Zan and Liz entered the room, watching in silence as Liz sat on the edge of the bed, Zan flicking his hand as candlelight bathed the room in a soft glow. Zan shut the bedroom door quietly, crossing the room as he sat beside Liz on the freshly made bed. She sat there silently, the damp towel cold on her skin. Liz picked his hand up, pressing a soft kiss to his palm as they looked at each other. “Make love to me Zan” she whispered. Zan stared into her eyes, knowing it was her human side that was asking, not the alien.

“Ya sure?” he whispered, Liz nodding even as her lower lip trembled. Zan reached out slowly, trailing his fingers over her cheekbones, his touch gentle and feather light. Liz sighed as her eyes slid shut, pressing her cheek into the palm of his hand as he used the pad of his thumb to sweep the tear from her lashes when it threatened to spill over. Tilting her head back slowly, he brought her lips to his, rubbing her satiny mouth with his, the kiss soothing as Liz slid her hands over his chest.

She tried to deepen the kiss, Zan pulling away as he denied her movements. “Slow” he whispered, trailing his lips gently over her throat as he ran his fingertips down her spine. The towel parted under his hands, giving Max the naked view of her back, Zan’s large hands holding her closely. Liz sighed as he moved closer to her on the bed, surprised at his actions. Their joining were normally hard and passionate, both fighting for dominance. This was different, gentler.

Zan again avoided her mouth, his breath tickling her neck as he spoke softly. “We’ve got all night girl. Just feel.” Running his hand up her bare back, he cradled her head in his palm as he returned his lips to hers, Liz parting them as he gained entrance to her mouth. His tongue dipped into her mouth, tasting slowly, almost teasing in its slow strokes. Zan explored her mouth, tracing the contours of her face with his other hand as they kissed.

Zan pushed Liz onto her back with his body, keeping his weight off her with his hands, pressing them into the mattress as he continued to kiss her slowly, finally dragging his mouth from hers when he became light headed. He sat up silently, pulling the blankets up over her body as he slid into the large bed with her. Taking the towel from the edge of the bed, he dropped it on the floor, running his hand down over her ribs slowly as he memorised the feeling of her skin under his hands. Liz moaned softly when he brushed the underside of her breast with his thumb, his hot mouth nibbling a trail of fire down her shoulder.

She cried out softly when he closed his mouth over the hardened peek of her breast, the feeling of his hot tongue and cool barbell making her shiver in his arms. She could feel her body heating up, and wiggled against him. Zan lifted his head, a slow smirk crossing his face as she bit her lower lip. He returned to her breasts, paying attention to the other while his hand swept light circles where his mouth had been only moments before. She arched against him as he nipped the side of her ribs, his hands leaving trails of fire down her thighs as he kissed his way down her stomach.

Liz moaned softly as he slid his fingers through her damp curls, allowing him to spread her thighs with his knee as he shifted between her legs. Zan hissed as he traced her folds with his finger slowly, feeling the heat she was throwing off under his hands. Pressing his free hand to her stomach, he slid his finger into her wet opening, Liz arching as he knelt up between her legs, his hand moving slowly as he teased her. A soft sob of need escaped her mouth as he slid a second finger into her opening, his thumb occasionally brushing her nub as he slowly slid his fingers in and out of her.

She could feel herself getting wetter as she arched helplessly against him. Zan groaned softly as she clenched the sheets in her hands, finally flicking her nub lightly with his thumb. Liz cried out as she orgasmed violently, Zan smirking softly when he raised his head. Kicking his pants off, he crawled between her thighs, staring down at her as she fought to control her breathing.

Liz opened her eyes, staring up at Zan as he watched her. His eyes were warm and open, his feelings on display as he brushed his erection against her opening. Liz slid her legs around his waist, sighing as he entered her slowly. Once inside of her fully, Zan rested his head against hers, keeping his body still as he looked down at her again. “Ya so damn beautiful” he whispered, Liz arching as he slowly slid almost all the way out of her body, before plunging back in again.

Zan entwined his fingers with hers, pulling her hands above her head as he continued to plunge slowly in and out of her body, her slick walls nearly searing with heat. Capturing her mouth with his, Zan slid his tongue straight into her mouth, Liz tasting his essence on her tongue. He let her hands go, Liz sliding them over his shoulders and arms as he continued to torment her with his slow strokes. Liz looked up at him, biting her lip as she arched under his skilful hands.

“I wanna feel ya come baby” he whispered, taking in her flushed skin, noticing the way her breathing had become erratic. She was fighting his tenderness, sobbing as her body strained towards release. “Open ya eyes baby” Zan whispered, Liz obeying as she looked up at him. “Oh God” she whispered, her eyes widening as Zan knelt up, hooking her thighs over his as he continued to thrust slowly into her body, pulling her deeper against him with each stroke.

Zan felt the first soft flutter around his length, keeping his movements slow and deep. Grasping her thighs in his hands, he pulled her tightly against him, stilling his movements as he brushed her nub with his thumb. Liz twisted under him, a single tear spilling down her face as she looked up at him. “I love ya” he whispered, Liz shattering as he brushed her again. Her velvety walls clenched around him violently, Zan clenching his teeth as her body twitched. As she returned to reality, she opened her eyes, locking the clear blue depths with his warm golden ones. “I love you too,” she whispered.

Zan smiled at her softly, before covering her body with his again. Liz arched as he began to move again, moaning when he bit down on her shoulder lightly. Drawing her legs up, she allowed him to deepen his thrusts, dragging her nails lightly over his shoulders and neck as he built the smouldering flames in her body up again. “Please Zan,” she whispered, her eyes pleading when he raised his head. “Now” she pleaded, Zan shuddering as she dug her nails into his hips.

“Ya mine Liz” he whispered softly, his thrusts deepening and becoming harder. Liz nodded against his shoulder, feeling the heat he was throwing off. She nipped at his neck lightly, Zan’s soft moan of pleasure muffled against her shoulder. “Oh f*#k” he cried softly, thrusting into her soft body violently as the alien side suddenly emerged, Liz meeting him thrust for thrust. He pulled out of her suddenly, rolling her onto her stomach as he growled softly.

Liz felt her body flair with sudden heat as he pulled her up onto her knees, thrusting straight back into her welcoming body. His hands gripped her hips tightly, his fingertips bruising her skin slightly as he pounded into her damp body. Zan could feel himself loosing control, reaching between Liz’s thighs as he stroked her nub again. She cried out as her back arched, Zan snarling as he felt the familiar ripple along his length. He thrust desperately, finally crying out as his release tore through him, Liz collapsing on the mattress under him when his arms gave out.

They lay there silently, their harsh pants echoing through the room as Zan buried his head against her neck, licking the drop of sweat that ran down her shoulder. Zan shifted to the side slowly, drawing Liz into his arms as they lay there. “Ya ok?’ he asked softly, Liz purring in response. She twisted her head slightly, looking back at him as he started to drift off to sleep. “Thank you” she said softly.

Zan opened his eyes. “For what?” he asked. Liz smiled. “For saving my life twice now, for giving so much up for Kyle and I, and for loving me.” Zan smiled crookedly, brushing his lips over her temple. “I’ve always loved ya” he murmered. Liz glanced at him, Zan tightening his grip around her slender body. “Ya face haunted me from day one. I used to see ya in my dreams, and I knew ya were my destiny.” Liz sighed softly, closing her eyes as Zan told her to sleep.

Zan waited until her breathing evened out, before swinging his head around to face the curtains. “Ya enjoy da show Max?” he hissed. Max flushed as he revealed himself. Zan flicked his eyes over him, a smirk planted firmly on his face. “Do me a favour boy, and get da f*#k outta my room,” Zan spat. Max nodded, his face red with pain and embarrassment. “Shut da door on ya way out” Zan hissed softly, his low chuckle humiliating Max further as he closed the door.




Part 26:

Liz woke in early, wincing slightly from the assault on her body. Sliding from the bed quietly, she pulled a pair of warn Levi’s on, buttoning the fly shut as she glanced down at Zan. He was lying on his stomach, his head buried under the pillows as he snored softly. Grabbing her black jumper, she pulled it over her head, her fingers brushing her stomach lightly as she stood up.

She twisted her hair into a loose ponytail as she left the room, sitting down by the door as she pulled her boots on. A hand on her wrist gave her a fright, spinning around as she looked into Tess’s face. They two girls stared at each other, before Liz jerked her head towards the door. “Ya comin?” she whispered, Tess nodding as she also pulled a pair of shoes on. She glanced at the leather jacket Liz handed her in surprise, before pulling it on.

The two girls were silent as they took the elevator down to the garage, Tess following Liz as she strode through the open doors. She paused when Liz grabbed a helmet, surprise written all over her face as Liz picked the helmet up off the other bike. Tess hesitated for a minute, before pulling the helmet on. Liz straddled Zan’s bike, starting the engine easily. The engine purred as Liz backed it out of the space, patting the seat behind her as she looked at Tess. Tess grinned, hopping on the bike behind Liz.

Tess started laughing as Liz rode down the entrance ramp, before taking off into the busy street. Tess hung onto Liz tightly as she drove through the streets, dodging traffic as it crawled forward. They pulled up at an apartment building half an hour later, Liz cutting the engine as Tess slid from the back of the bike. “That was great” Tess exclaimed, Liz tossing her a smile as the blonde followed her into the building.

Liz took the elevator to the third floor, Tess following her quietly as Liz knocked on a door. It swung open, Liz beckoning for Tess to follow her as she entered the room. Tess shut the door, gasping softly as she turned around. There was a tall white being in front of her, the light almost blinding as it enveloped Liz. Tess watched as Liz sighed, before pulling away. “Tess, this is Larek in true form. Larek, this is Tess, Ava’s dupe.” The being started to shimmer, before fading slightly, the faint form of a man visible. Liz sat down on the couch with a soft sigh, before turning to face Larek.

“Ya know what happened last night don’t ya?” she queried. Larek hummed slightly as he sat beside her. “I know Nicolas tortured you, and that Zan killed him.” Larek paused as he glanced at her, a smile crossing his face. “I also know Zan fully claimed you and that you exchanged vows of love, and that in the union, you created life.” Tess looked at Liz in shock, unable to speak as Liz nodded silently. “How long do I have until it’s born Larek?” she whispered.

Larek ran his hand over her abdomen, a faint handprint appearing as the baby made it’s presence known. “Six weeks. It will be born full blood like you and Zan. We will put the child in a pod, which will let it develop for a further three months. When the child breaks free of the pod, it will be roughly three years old.” Liz sighed as she pressed her fingers to her eyes in silence. “Will it be able to protect it’s self?” she whispered. Larek nodded. “Full memories, full powers, pure blood” he confirmed. Tess sat beside Liz, who nodded when Tess glanced at her.

Tess placed her hand over her stomach, gasping when two tiny hands appeared. Larek started laughing, placing his glowing hand over Tess’s as the three stared down at Liz’s stomach. “Zan will be pleased to learn he has a son” Larek murmered. Liz looked up at him in silence, a single tear trickling down her face. “How can I do this Larek?. How can I be expected to leave him to fight a war?.” Tess looked up in shock, her hand tightening over Liz’s stomach in silent protest. Larek sighed, before wiping the tear away.

“Ava asked me the same question yesterday, when I informed her she was expecting a daughter. This was meant to happen Liz. When you return to Antar, the children will be protected. If you wish for them to be placed with family, we can do that. Nothing will happen to them.” Liz sniffed as she nodded, before standing up. “Does Kyle know yet?” she asked as she prepared to leave. Larek shook his head. “No, I told Ava to wait until she’d spoken to you. She also knows that you are expecting. She asked if the children could be developed together, and I said yes.”

Liz smiled softly as she said her thanks, Tess following her silently back to the bike. They returned to the loft in silence, which was broken when Tess suddenly turned to Liz. “Thank you for letting me be there” she said. Liz turned to study Tess, finally smiling. “I want us to be friends Tess. I understand the secrecy which Max imposed on you, and I’m happy that you are together now.” Tess nodded, before throwing her arms around Liz tightly. “How are you going to tell Zan?’ she asked. Liz shrugged. “I won’t need too,” she whispered.

Liz opened the door to the loft silently, giving Ava a small smile and nod when they locked eyes. Ava grinned happily, watching as Liz shut the door, Tess wandering over to the couch as she sat down, waiting as Zan wandered into the kitchen. He dropped a kiss on Liz’s mouth, pulling back suddenly as he tilted his head in surprise. Dropping to his knees in front of her, he pulled her top up, nuzzling her belly button with his nose. Two little handprints appeared, Zan sliding his hands over them. He glanced up at Liz, who smiled at him.

Kyle started laughing at the look on Zan’s face. “So we’re gonna be daddies together then” he stated, Zan snorting with laughter as Ava nodded. Zan turned back to Liz’s stomach, pressing a kiss to the palm of one of the tiny hands. “Hey baby, daddy loves you,” he whispered. Liz started laughing softly when Kyle turned to Zan. “Ya keep ya son away from our daughter” he warned, the room erupting with laughter as Tess stood up to make the congratulations, promising to keep the secret until the others were told.

Three months later:

Zan paced the room as Liz slept, watching the glowing pod silently. The transfer had been a sight to behold, Liz crying in Zan’s arms that night as the pod hummed softly. Larek had placed his hand over Liz’s stomach, his powers making a tiny foetus appear before them. He had placed it in the new pod with Kyle and Ava’s child, before sealing it with his powers. That had been almost three months ago, and Zan was getting impatient. He past Kyle as he paced the other way, Ava smiling as she watched them cross paths repeatedly as they paced together.

Movement caught Zan’s eye, as he crept closer to the pod, Kyle by his side. Ava stood up, waking Liz as she grabbed some towels. A hand pushed through the membrane covering the pod, followed by another hand. A head covered in black curls appeared, large golden eyes blinking up at them as a small boy broke through the pod. Liz wrapped a towel around his naked shoulders, pulling him into her arms as she held him tightly. The boy watched in silence as Kyle helped his daughter out of the pod, a perfect replica of Ava, with her blonde curls, and her fathers silver eyes.

Part 27:
One year later:

The Crash Down had shut for the evening, Jeff Parker sitting quietly at the counter as he did the books. The tingle of the bell over the door had him looking up, surprised to find two small children before him. The boy and girl were holding hands tightly, staring up at him in silence. Jeff turned to face them fully, smiling gently when the little boy pulled the girl behind him protectively. “Are you Jeff Parker?” the boy asked. Jeff nodded, surprised when the boy pulled a photo out of his pocket.

Jeff slid from his stool and knelt down as the children shuffled forward, the boy holding the photo tightly in his small hand. Jeff found himself mesmerised by his large golden eyes as the boy silently handed him the photo. Jeff looked down, a shuddering sigh escaping his mouth when he saw the photo. Liz was standing with the boy in her arms, a man behind her holding them both. They were smiling for the camera, Jeff noticing that the man had his fingers threaded through Liz’s hair, and that her head was resting on his shoulder.

Jeff looked at the boy in shock, before glancing at the photo again. “Who’s that?” he asked softly. The boy pointed at the photo. “That’s my Mummy and my Daddy and me.” Jeff nodded, a tear running down his cheek as he wondered what to say next. “What’s your name?” he asked finally. The boy smiled. “My names Kyan. I was named for my Uncle Kyle. This is Lyzza. She was named for my Mummy.” The sudden squeal of breaks caught Jeff’s attention. He watched in amazement as Tess stumbled out of the jeep as Max started to parked the car, running across the road to the Crash Down, before pulling the door open.

She paused when she saw the children, crossing the room to kneel down before them, a smile on her face. Lyzza turned around, watching Tess quietly, before taking the few steps that separated them, resting her head on Tess’s shoulder silently as the blonde girl held her tightly. Max, Michael and Isabel ran through the doors a minute later, skidding to a halt at the scene before them. Lyzza lifted her head a minute later, touching her small hand to Tess’s face. “You look like my Mummy,” she whispered. Tess nodded. “You smell like my Mummy” Lyzza whispered again. Tess nodded again as she fought back tears, finally able to talk. “I’m your Aunty Tess. Your Mummy’s my sister.” Lyzza nodded, her lower lip trembling as they looked at each other.

“My Daddy said that I can live with you and Grandpa, and that Grandpa is the law around here.” Tess nodded, giggling when Lyzza spoke again. “He also said that Grandpa will paddle my bum if I’m naughty. Is that true?.” Tess shook her head quickly. “No Lyzza, your Grandpa is a big softy. He’s gonna spoil you rotten.” Lyzza perked up a bit. “Ice cream?” she whispered loudly. Tess nodded, winking as if they shared a huge secret. “Even chocolate topping” she confirmed. Lyzza touched her face again. “I miss my Mummy and Daddy,” she whispered, her large eyes filling with tears as she laid her head back down on Tess’s shoulder. Tess nodded, before whispering to the small girl. “I miss them too baby.”

Tess looked over at Kyan, smiling at him gently. “I’m so glad you’re here Kyan. Your Mummy said that you looked just like your Daddy, and she’s right. You are so handsome.” Kyan nodded, taking a step towards her. “My Mummy said that my Uncle Max looks just like Daddy. Is that true?” he asked. Max stepped forward, kneeling beside Tess. Kyan looked at him quietly, before running into his open arms. Max held him tightly, glancing as Jeff Parker as he sat down with a thud. “Mr Parker, can you call the Sheriff?.” Jeff nodded, Michael already on the phone to Alex and Maria.

Max looked at Tess in silence. “How long have you known?” he asked softly. Tess smiled. “Since the day after we got there. I promised not to tell anyone.” Jeff looked at Max in silence, tears running freely down his face. “How?” he asked. Max swallowed, surprised when Kyan pulled out of his arms. Kyan crossed the room, standing before Jeff in silence. The two regarded each other, before Kyan reached out, pressing his small hands to either side of Jeff’s face. Jeff jolted as his eyes slid shut, images passing slowly through his mind.

He saw Liz being shot, and Max healing her. Larek telling her and Kyle about Kivar’s plans. Liz watching with Kyle in silence as their deaths were announced, and the subsequent funerals. The move to New York. The changes that occurred. The torture at the hands of Nicolas. Zan healing her. Zan whispering that he loved her. Kyan and Lyzza emerging from the pod. Liz telling Kyan about his Grandpapa, and how he made the best ice cream sundaes in the whole wide world. Liz and Zan crying quietly together as they watched their son sleep for the last time. Watching Jeff doing the books as Kyan and Lyzza crossed the road hand in hand, disappearing through the doors together. The images faded as Kyan slowly released Jeff’s face. Jeff looked at Max in silence, waiting for an explanation as he pulled his grandchild into his arms.

He was surprised when Kyan turned his face slowly, Jeff looking through the windows of the Crash Down. He gasped when he saw what Kyan was pointing too, Jeff’s tears falling freely. Zan and Liz stood outside the dinner in silence, Ava and Kyle standing with them. Liz was leaning against Zan, tears running down her face as she looked into the dinner. She smiled at her father, before lowering her eyes to her son. Jeff looked at Zan, nodding when Zan tilted his head in a sign of respect. Jeff looked back at Liz, who was watching Kyan. She pressed her fingers to her lips, and then touched them to her heart. Kyan repeated the motion, Liz twirling her finger slowly to signal her son to face the other way.

Kyan buried his head in Jeff’s shoulder silently, his tears soaking the older mans shirt as Liz pressed her hand to the glass window, before tilting her head up to Zan. She glanced back at her father, her eyes pleading silently as the night air suddenly echoed with thunder, Jeff watching as the four of them shimmered, before vanishing into thin air. Lyzza started crying suddenly, as did Kyan, the two small children hanging onto Jeff and Tess tightly as they realised their parents were no longer there. Tess started crying when Jim walked in, pausing when he saw Lyzza in her arms. He sank to his knees, holding the only two links to his son tightly as he also started to cry.

Jeff glanced at Max in silence, who stood up to lock the door as Maria and Alex ran in, both skidding to a halt when they saw why they had been summoned to the dinner at such a later hour. Kyan hick upped against Jeff’s shoulder softly, before falling asleep, Jeff watching as Lyzza did the same in Tess’s arms. He looked back at Max, before standing up and moving to a booth. He held his grandson tightly as Max slid in across from him, amazed as Max started telling him the whole story, all the while feeling Kyan’s heart beating against his own.



Part 28:
Four years later:

The Crash Down erupted with laughter and applause as Lyzza and Kyan blew out the candles on their birthday cake, the eight blue and eight pink candles standing proudly on the large chocolate cake. The two children sat back in the booth, before turning to face each other, pressing their foreheads together in silence. Jeff smiled sadly as Kyan slid his arms around Lyzza, whispering softly in her ear. Lyzza nodded, before resting her head against his shoulder.

They were mature for eight year olds, Jeff often having to remind himself of that. He smiled fondly as he thought back over the past four years, and the wounds they had healed. Phillip and Dianne Evans now also knew their children’s secret. Dianne had opened Max’s door one morning not long after Kyan and Lyzza had appeared, shocked to find Kyan asleep in Max’s bed, curled up with his face pressed over Max’s heart, smelling his fathers scent as he slept. Max had his arms wrapped tightly around the small boy, his window wide open from where Kyan had crawled through it in the middle of the night.

He had had a nightmare about Zan dying, and had fled the unfamiliar house, finding his way to Max’s room, where he had cried his pain and loneliness out in Max’s arms. As Diana had watched them sleep, Kyan had woken up screaming, sobbing in Max’s arms about his father being hurt by Kivar, and the green sky being washed red with his blood. Max hadn’t seen his father join his mother at Kyan’s scream, and had spoken softly, telling Kyan that his father was a powerful alien King, and that he loved his son too much to die on a distant planet.

Kyan had shaken his head, asking Max why he had been left behind, when his Mummy and Daddy and Uncle Kyle and Aunty Ava had gone to Antar to fight. Had he done something wrong?. Max had shaken his head, promising to seek out Larek to see if they could link up with Liz and Zan, so he could see that they were alright. Kyan had cried himself too sleep, Max holding him tightly in his arms. When he had looked up, he had been startled to see his mother and father standing there, tears running down their faces at the little boys pain, the truth finally revealed as they had joined him on the bed, Kyan sleeping in Max’s arms the whole time

It was a familiar scene with Tess and Lyzza, the small girl unable to sleep unless she was with either Tess or Kyan. Everyone learnt to let it happen, and as the children got older, they were found in each other’s bed more often than not. Lyzza had spare clothes and toiletries at Kyan’s house, as he did at hers and Max’s. It was just easier that way. They had been wary at first, shying away from anyone but Max, Tess and each other. But that had changed when Jeff had badly cut his hand with a knife. Kyan had crept forward, running his small index finger over the bleeding wound, seeing into his Grand papa’s heart. He had seen the loneliness at loosing Nancy to cancer a few months after Liz had “died”, and the silent joy of having a link to a daughter he had thought was dead. They had gone fishing at Kyan’s request a few days later, returning with an unbreakable bond, helping each other in a way no one else could.

Max had been good to his promise, Larek appearing in his pure form to enable the link up, the whole group present when the first image of Antar was shown. Acid green skies were filled with pale pink clouds, and two moons hung over the sky as Liz had spoken, her voice strained and tired as she spoke about how much she missed Kyan. Zan had appeared, telling Kyan how they were slowly winning the war, and that they would be home as soon as they could. Kyle and Ava had made Lyzza promise to listen to Kyan, and to not be afraid, that they loved her more than anything in the world, including ice cream with chocolate topping.

Jeff sighed softly as he started to dish up the birthday cake, silent in his fear for his missing daughter. They hadn’t heard from Liz or the others in nearly five months, and it weighed heavily on everyone’s mind. Kyan looked up as thunder suddenly crashed in the sky, his eyes widening as he swung his gaze towards Lyzza. Thunder crashed again, and the room was suddenly filled with a bright light. Everyone winced, shutting their eyes against the blinding light.

Jeff heard his grandson cry out suddenly, opening his eyes. His breath hitched when he saw why. He could see four figures through the window of the dinner, standing in the pounding rain. As he watched, they crossed the road, everyone holding their breath as one of them pulled the dinner door open. Kyan started crying as he moved out of the booth, running across the room as Liz knelt down. Kyan threw his arms around his mother, feeling his father’s scent close around him as Zan knelt down to hold his wife and son close.

Jeff looked hard at the scene before him, unable to believe his eyes. Liz, Zan, Ava and Kyle were all dressed in leather, which was stained with blood. Liz’s hair was in a ponytail, dried blood and dirt streaking her beautiful face. She had a pair of alien guns at her hips, and a sword in a scabbard on her back. Zan also had guns on each hip, and he was wearing a pair of leather gloves, which encased his arms to near his elbow. Jeff could see retractable blades gleaming as he held his son, knowing that these were the war talons Larek had told him about.

Kyle and Ava had the same weapons as Liz and Zan, blood visible on the tips of the talons as Kyle held his daughter tightly, tears streaking through the blood and dirt on his face. Kyle had four parallel scars down one side of his face, the obvious result of the talons. As they watched the new arrivals silently, Jeff fought back his tears as he gazed at Liz. She had her eyes shut, tears sliding down her face as she held Kyan. He pulled away a minute later, looking at his mother and father closely. “Did you kill him Daddy?” he asked.

Zan smiled at him sadly. “Yeah Kyan, I did. It’s over. Zan raised his eyes to the gathered group. “Thank you for looking after our son.” Jeff swallowed, moving forward as Zan and Liz stood up. Liz and Jeff looked at each other silently, before Liz ran across the distance separating them, throwing her arms around her father. He held her tightly, tears sliding down his face when she whispered quietly, “Hi daddy.” She pulled away a minute later, holding her hand out to Zan, who was holding Kyan in his arms. “Daddy, this is Zan. My husband.”

Part 29:

Jeff opened the door to Liz’s room slowly, his breath hitching in his throat when he saw into the darkened room. Zan was lying on his side, Kyan curled up in his lap. Kyan’s face was pressed against Liz’s chest, his arms wrapped tightly around her. All three of them were asleep, the room silent as Jeff leant against the doorframe. He heaved a sigh, freezing when the bed shifted with sudden movement, and he slowly raised his hands in surrender.

Liz had whipped her arm towards him, the gun in her hand humming as she pointed it at her father, her eyes nearly white. Zan was also holding his hand out, the blades of the talons gleaming a bright blue as his eyes flickered between white and a pale gold colour. Neither of them spoke, Jeff realising that they were always alert, due to enemies sneaking up on them while they rested.

Zan sat up slowly, the blades of the glove on his right hand extending slowly as he stared at Jeff silently, Jeff feeling his skin tingle with the amount of power his daughter and son in law were controlling. As the three of them stared at each other, Kyan woke up, stretching slowly as he yawned, before opening his eyes. His eyes widened when he saw what was happening, and he reached up to touch his father’s face gently.

“Dad, it’s ok.” Liz relaxed when she heard Kyan’s voice, her eyes flooding with dark blue as she lowered her hand. Rolling back towards Zan, she sat up, reaching out to cup his face in her palm, her thumb gently sweeping across the sharp line of his jaw. “Zan, monisk layem.” Zan blinked, his hands steady as he stared at Jeff. Liz touched his face again gently. “Zan, monisk layem. Calm down. It’s ok babe.” Zan blinked again, and his eyes slowly flooded gold.

His body relaxed, the gleaming blades retracting into the gloves as he lowered his hand. “Talios Liz. De Kivar umslin doens madelia. Talios.” Liz smiled at him slowly. “I know your sorry Zan. But my dad isn’t Kivar.” Zan nodded, shrugging helplessly as he closed his eyes. Liz turned back towards her father.

“Word of advice Dad. Don’t do that again. We could have blown ya f*#kin head off.” Jeff nodded weakly, watching as Liz reached out and ran her hands over Zan’s face slowly. “Dad, can you get me some wet towels please?” she murmered. Jeff nodded, doing as his daughter requested. Liz turned to look at Kyan. “Ky, I want to you to call Uncle Kyle. Tell him I need his help and I need it now.” Kyan nodded, running to do as he was told.

Zan looked up at Liz blindly, his eyes returning to the white state, showing his alien side was in complete control of him. Liz smiled at him as she gently pressed her lips to his, feeling him shudder under her gentle caress. Kyan returned to the room, pausing when his mother told him to stay by the door. He nodded, watching his parents in confusion. His eyes widened when he saw a movement under his father’s skin, a small mound travelling up under the glove, hiding from sight.

Kyle and Ava arrived a few minutes later, running up the stairs and joining Jeff as he entered the room. “Dad, stay nekolia…stay back. It’s not safe” Liz murmered, switching between English and Antarien as she watched Zan close his eyes again. Jeff handed the towels to Ava, who went to sit by Zan’s side. Kyle joined Liz as she stood up, her eyes flickering between white and pale blue.

“Kyle, I think he’s sick.” Kyle nodded, watching Zan who was breathing shallowly, his skin flushed with alien heat as he fought for control. Kyle reached out, his hand hovering above Zan’s chest. Zan arched in pain, Kyle retracting his hand quickly. “Yeah, there’s somethin not right with him Liz.” Liz nodded. “He was ok last night, but now he’s speaking Antarien, and I don’t think he realizes he’s doin it.”

“Mum?” Kyan said from the door, Liz turning to face him. “Something moved under his skin. It hid under his glove.” Liz spun to face Kyle, who flicked both hands, the blades on his talons appearing, the room humming with power. Liz reached out, taking Zan’s arm in her hands. She quickly undid the gloves, the blades clinking as they fell to the floor. “Oh F*#k” Kyle said, watching in sick fascination as Zan’s arm crawled with movement.

“Can I help?” a soft voice asked, Liz turning to see Max lingering by her open door. She glanced at Kyle, remembering how things had gone down between them five years earlier. Kyle sighed, and then nodded. Max moved into the room, asking what to do. Kyle sighed again. “The three of us are gonna have a hard enough time getting the parasites out. When we do, your gonna have to heal him. He might fight ya, but just do ya best.”

Max nodded, turning to find Liz looking at him with her startling blue eyes. “Do more than try your best Max.” He nodded, watching as Ava, Kyle and Liz gathered around the bed. They held their hands out over Zan’s prone body, Max watching as he suddenly arched in pain. His skin started to crawl, and Kyan started crying as small worm like creatures were sucked out of his skin.

Kyle, Liz and Ava used one hand to pull them out, and the other hand to kill them. The whole process took an hour, Zan twitching silently the whole time. When no more came out, Max moved towards the bed, sitting down beside his mirror image. It was the first time he had really seen Zan up close, and he studied him carefully as he gathered the energy he knew he would need to heal him.

Placing his hands over Zan’s chest, he let his energy flow along his hands into the other mans skin. Zan arched under his touch, only to settle again when Liz laid her hand along his brow. Zan’s eyes opened slowly, and he raised them to look up at Max. They locked gazes, and time stood still. Max blinked rapidly, looking around at his surroundings. He saw Zan standing on a balcony out side the room he was in, and headed towards him. Zan turned to face him, his gaze clear and steady as he regarded Max silently.

“Where are we?” Max asked finally, Zan smirking as he turned to look back over the balcony. “Antar, or what’s left of it” he murmered. Max joined him at the balcony, looking out over the ravaged landscape. Men and woman scurried around in the grounds below, cleaning up the carnage. Zan gestured to them with his hand. “They started da clean up da day after I killed Kivar. They will continue to clean da planet up, restoring it to its former state.”

Max nodded, Zan turning to face him once more. “I bought ya in here for a reason Max.” Max nodded, Zan glancing down at his hands as he bit the inside of his lip. “I wanted to apologize for how I treated ya da day ya hit New York.” Max shook his head. “For what Zan? You were right. Back then I was a weak boy, who treated Liz like she was scum. When I found out she was still alive, I walked down to your room, determined to speak with her.”

Max sighed softly, remembering the pain and humiliation he had felt that night. “When you came back into the room, I watched you the entire time. The way you moved with her, the responses you made her give. I realized that night that she no longer belonged to me, that she was owned body, heart and soul by you.” Zan nodded slowly. “I deliberately spoke down to ya that night, determined that ya would never get another chance with her.”

Max nodded, Zan biting his lip again as he sought the words he wanted to say. “Thank you for looking after Kyan.” Max shrugged, surprised when Zan made a sharp sweeping motion with his hand. “I watched ya with him Max. Every night I checked in on him, and I watched him grow under your guidance.” Max blushed, looking Zan squarely in the eye.

“I always wondered why you told Tess, but kept the truth from the rest of us.” Zan gave a humourless chuckle. “Tess was looking for redemption for tearing you and Liz apart. When she found out Liz was pregnant with Kyan, she found it. We discovered Ava was pregnant at the same time, and Tess gave us her word that she would give her life to protect them. She also gave her word that if we died in da war, she would raise both of them like her own.”

Max was stunned, his jaw falling open. Zan smirked again. “I watched my son learn to ride a bike with you. I watched as he learnt to read properly with Isabel. He learnt to speak his mind because of Michael, and he learnt to love wholly with Maria. It was Alex who taught him that life was to short not to laugh.” Zan took a deep breath. “And he learnt that it was ok to be different because of you.”

Max swallowed again, deciding to lay it all on the table. “Well I learnt something too. That I had no right to lay claim on a woman who loved another, not when the result of that love was staring me in the eye every day. I learnt that it was ok to make mistakes, and to love again. He bought Tess and I together Zan, and for that I will always be indebted to him.” Zan nodded, the held his hand out. Max grinned, extending his own hand. The second their fingers touched, Max gasped.

He opened his eyes, looking down at Zan, who was staring up at him, his golden eyes warm and clear. “Hey bro” Kyle said in relief, Zan blinking. He smiled, and then swung his eyes to Liz. They shared a long look, before Zan spoke softly. “Thanks Max.” Max grinned, watching as Kyan and Liz joined Zan on the bed, enjoying being whole as a family once more.

Part 30.
Two months later.

Zan rolled over in bed, glancing around the room in confusion. Liz wasn’t in bed with him, and he took a minute to organise his thoughts. They had returned to the city, reclaiming their old Loft. Kyle, Ava and Lyzza had moved into the apartment below them, the four friends strong in feelings of love and friend ship. Zan slid from the bed, padding down the hallway to Kyle and Ava’s old room.

Liz was standing in the doorway, an unreadable expression on her face. “What ya doin lover?” he whispered, Liz gesturing with her hand. Zan looked into the bedroom, a sad smile crossing his face when he took in the scene before him. Kyan was asleep in bed, lying on his side. Lyzza was snuggled under the covers with him, their foreheads touching as they slept.

Zan sighed, leading Liz back to bed silently. She lay down, taking Zan into her arms as he grunted, old wounds healing slowly. “So it’s starting” she murmered. Zan smiled up at her. “It started five years ago Liz. Da day ya fell pregnant with him, it started.” Liz swallowed heavily. “They are only children Zan.” He chuckled softly. “So was I lover. Ya know that.”

Liz smiled down at him, Zan twisting the simple gold band she wore as a wedding ring. “Why did it take me so long to find you, when you’ve loved me since then?” she whispered. Zan shrugged. “I don’t know Liz. All I know is that I claimed ya da minute I was born. It just took me a while to find ya.”

Liz nodded, glancing towards the bedroom door. “What about them Zan? Do they get a choice in this?” Zan smirked at her. “Ya know they do Liz. But remember this lover, Kyan and Lyzza were aware of each other from da word go. Larek gave his word Liz. Not ‘till they’re ready. I wouldn’t allow it.”

Liz nodded, reaching up to stroke his face gently. “Are you happy Zan?” He smiled at her, rolling her under him swiftly. His eyes glowed in the dim light, his voice husky as he spoke quietly. “I love ya more than life itself Liz. Ya crossed a galaxy for me. Ya gave me a son. Ya gave me a throne. And ya made me a man. A man who will one day die, passing on his thrown and crown to a son who will rule an entire galaxy. If I die tomorrow, I die happy.”

Liz smiled up at him, feeling the familiar flutters that preceded their joining. Tilting her head back, she smiled again. “Love me always Zan.” He smirked, his voice a silken caress along her neck as he showed his love. “I’m gonna love ya ‘till I’m dust on da wind.” Liz laughed softly, the long ago mantra taking on new meaning. “I’ll love ya till the dust settles Zan.”

The moon rose slowly, lending the lover a gentle light, and bathing the future of two worlds in its soft glow. Kyan closed his eyes slowly, his hand tangled in Lyzza’s curls. “I hope I love like that one day” was his last conscious thought, sleep claiming him…

The end.