I can't forget your face

Max continued to contemplate the dreams. Even though it was a memory he was filled with immense grief for the passing of Rath and Vilandra. Now he understood more than ever that his sister in her past life had lost her mind because of envy and Kivar had used that to lure her in

I die next. He stated it out loud as if trying to come to terms with that fact. Suddenly something dawned on him, if he died first he would not see Tess' death. But he so desperately yearned to know how is once wife passed on to the great beyond.

Maaaaxxx… A faint voice came from the distance of his mind. Tess? Max looked around frightened. He concluded that it meant she was still alive and felt great relief, this probably meant that in his subconscious they continued to be linked. Perhaps he would get to experience her last moments, not that that was such a great thing. Michael and Isabel came to his thoughts; not telling them of his new found memories was some what greedy, although Isabel was upset he would find a way to make her listen. The best to do would be give her and even Michael time. For now he would concentrate on Liz.

Like if reading his mind, the phone began to rang. Max reached over and answered. Hey Max. It was Liz. Oh… hey Liz what's up? He tried to sound as regular as possible. Well you never called me. The brunette sounded a bit irritated. I'm sorry. Replied Max quickly. I fell asleep and woke up a couple of minutes ago. Now he was lying through his teeth. I see. She answered. So… it's still early why don't you come down to the Crash Down, you can have whatever you want on the house. Liz's voice was now more cheery. That sounds great. He didn't have the excitement he used to have when it came to her. I'll be there in a few minutes, bye. As he hung the phone up he felt his body reluctant to move one inch, he was excited and nervous about having the next memory.

Another memory flooded his mind, but it was not of a past life it was of a time he shared with Tess.

They both sat on the bed across from each other. Tess was helping him remember little by little things from his real home. The color of the sky, the water, etc. Stupid things but important to him. The room had been filled with candles and even though he didn't say anything at the moment she looked splendid. It was odd how he liked two completely different girls. Liz was brunette, cute little figure, with a doey eyed expression and a timid ness that only subsided when he needed her. Tess on the other hand was a curly haired blonde, with a full figure, plump lips and a personality that showed no fear and not on ounce of timid ness. Her strength was intriguing to him and incredibly attractive.

Now he began to feel more restless, his heart kept telling him to stay put but his head told him it was wrong to tell Liz he was going and then not showing up. Max was a man that followed his head more often, so he stood and walked out to his car. On his way he kept feeling odd for finding Tess well Ava beautiful. She was so alien, her eyes, her skin, her height and her ears. Oh my god! Max was shocked. We have elf like ears! He began to rub his ears. Wow, I can't believe that. His face was red because of Ava and realizing they lived in a world like the Lord of the Rings, well in a more modern way.

He finally reached his destination and waited a good couple of minutes before stepping out and entering. Max couldn't help but feel nervous and strangely out of place. As he opened the door he noted that Liz was no where in sight, perhaps he could leave and call her with some excuse. As went to turn around the door behind him opened, it was Liz. You going somewhere? Her expression wasn't too pleasant. No, actually I thought maybe you were outside. Why couldn't he stop lying to her? Nice thinking, I was actually in the alley throwing some trash away. She now smiled. They both proceeded towards the counter. Max sat as Liz went around the counter and stood right in front of him. What can I get you? Liz's tone was beginning to become more and more pleasant, like she had always been with him. Uhm… cherry coke and any burger you would like to give to me. He knew he wasn't hungry, but she was being her usual self with him and he knew he had to try. You got it. She walked over to Michael to place the order; in the mean while Michael just starred at Max. Once again Liz walked over and began to speak. So… Max I was thinking that maybe this Satur… And then suddenly as Max listened to her speak his mind drifted to Tess. Now Tess spoke but he couldn't hear her, she was smiling at him and the sun lay behind her making her look like a radiant goddess. From what he could tell she was calling him to come. Max reached his hand out and began to stroke her face.

Hey Max. The sound of Liz's voice woke him. He found he was stroking Liz's face which made her quite happy. So… she said in an incredibly happy tone. You up for Saturday? Max sat silent for a second. Yeah that sounds great. He had no idea what he had agreed too but he played along. Michael hit the bell, Max's food was ready. As Liz walked away Max looked and saw that Michael starred at him with a raised eyebrow. His best friend suspected something was up.

Space…

Tess sat with legs crossed on the floor. She was determined to make contact with Max. Although with all the distance between them, she had some doubt that it would work. Her confidence came from her dreams, she had been very powerful. Max, can you hear me? This is so pointless! She exclaimed out loud. Maaaaxxx! The second time around she got stuck in a trance mode for a brief second. When she came out she was convinced he heard her.

Tonight was her last night in space. She couldn't believe that she managed to get this far. It hadn't been easy to convince the others that it would be best to go home.

Memory of a Couple of Weeks Before

Tess we have no need or reason to go back to Antar. We are fine here. Max spoke as they both sat on his bed just talking. Max, I haven't been completely honest with you. Tess now turned on her side and looked serious. Max in turn did the same. What do you mean you haven't been honest? He raised an eyebrow and tried to prepare himself for the worst. I'm… sick. His eyes widened. Sick, but how? Why? The concern he expressed was genuine. I have always been sick, since the moment I stepped out of the pod. Nasedo always said and I quote "It was like you over cooked in the pod, your human lungs are weak". Tess looked as though she wanted to laugh or perhaps cry. What does that mean? Max couldn't make since of the comment. The liquid we where in was made mostly of Antarian oxygen which in turn is a lot thicker than Earths oxygen. So when I stayed longer the fluid began to break down my human lungs. When I emerged I could barely breath and Nasedo for the one and only time took care of me and gave me this strange stuff that slowly helped. Tess stayed silent briefly and then looked at Max. I guess you can say I have alien asthma. Silence once again filled the room. Is that why you want to go? Are you dying? Max stared intently at his girlfriend. Yes, I think I' am. Nasedo passed on and he was the only one that knew what to give me. I really did think I was fine but lately I don't feel so well. Max awkwardly placed an arm around her and brought her close. It will be ok; we will go home if that's what needs to be done.

End of Memory

She felt a pit of guilt form in her stomach. Most of the story was true, except she hadn't been sick in a long time. Her plan wasn't to give them over instead she was hoping when they got home they would attack Kivar and rid there world once and for all of such an evil man. They could go back to being who they were. Tess sighed heavily. At least I can have one last peaceful night. She proceeded to the sleeping area and quickly lay down, instantly she fell in deep sleep. In turn Max was doing the same back on Earth.

Max's Point of View

The king stood in front of an oddly shaped mirror, watching himself carefully place his armor on. Zan stood at least 6'5, black eyes and black longish hair. Unlike Antarian women the men didn't not have skin that glowed, but he carried the birth mark of the solar system oh his chest. Now that Rath had died he had to lead the troops into the last battle with Kivar. He prayed to the Great that Rath would guide him and be beside him during this, his possible last moments. Suddenly the door opened and Zan turned; Ava stood in full body armor, her beautiful hair tied back. What is going on Ava? Zan asked with a puzzled expression. This is our fight; I will be by your side. Her face was more of pleading than actually stating a fact. No, you are out of your mind. Zan quickly walked to her and shock her. If any harm comes to you I could never live with the agony. Ava smiled a sad smile. I know, but I can not allow myself to hide like a scared Queen. These are my people and you are my husband. If we fall we shall do it together. Zan hugged her close to him and took in the sent of her skin. As you wish. He replied in a whisper. But I want you to guard the castle, if I perish this is where Kivar will come. You have to try and stop him. Ava nodded in consent.

Zan walked to his men and looked at them from side to side. Fear poured from them. What a fine and brave group of men I see before me this day! All the men watched as the king spoke. We might very well be walking to our deaths, but if so, when I reach the great beyond I will be able to say I died proud that we did not submit to our enemy! At his words the men cheered. Let us now remember Rath and make him proud! Once again they cheered. Zan turned and began to walk through the city to the outer walls where Kivar waited.

As they passed through the capital city, all the women stood outside throwing petals and oil at the men as they cried. Zan felt fear he could not lie to himself, not one ounce showed. Finally he had reached the grounds and he positioned himself as well as his men. It was an Antarian custom to walk to your enemy and shake his hand in the middle of the battlefield. The king began to walk towards Kivar but Kivar was not moving. As he reached the middle Kivar smirked and yelled to his men. CHARGE! Zan froze; Kivar was definitely a dishonorable man. His enemies ran to him, Zan placed his hands in front of him and made a pushing gesture. Hundreds flew backwards, in the mean while the king's men reached him in time to prevent his demise. The gruesome battle had begun, sword like weapons and powers were used. Zan continued to push through the crowd, his only interest was Kivar. As he walked he spotted the murder of his kind simply standing as though waiting. The king charged, he shot at Kivar but he deflected it without a single sign of difficulty. Zan brought down his weapon and Kivar brought his up. The clashing was so hard and loud it was the only sound that could be heard from a distance.

Kivar was briefly caught of guard and Zan took the chance to knock him to his feet. As he ran to give him the final blow, Kivar stabbed him in the gut with an immense evil smile on his face. I win boy! Kivar exclaimed. The king fell on his back and whispered his final words to the air. Ava, I love you. Darkness.

End of Dream

Tess's Point of View

Ava's maidens finished placing the heavy armor on the petite Queen. She just held a blank stare, Zan would never allow her to fight but she would have to insist. She stepped down from her small step and proceeded to his chambers. The maidens understood to not follow. As she walked to her husband she felt nervous. What will you say my love? Her thoughts felt like they would explode her head. She opened the door and there Zan stood dressing himself. It was though he dressed for his own funeral. The tears where pushed back as he spoke to her. What is going on Ava? Zan asked her with a puzzled expression. This is our fight; I will be by your side. In all respect to him she did not demand she only pleaded. No, you are out of your mind. She watched as he walked towards her and grabbed her. If any harm comes to you I could never live with the agony. Ava looked him in the eyes and smiled a sad smile. I know, but I can not allow myself to hide like a scared Queen. These are my people and you are my husband. If we fall we shall do it together. Zan looked as though he would cry but he hugged her and she hugged back tightly. As you wish. He replied in a whisper. But I want you to guard the castle, if I perish this is where Kivar will come. You have to try and stop him. Ava simply nodded in consent. Zan walked past her and she stood at the door. All Ava wanted was to fall to her knees and cry for it could be the last time she saw his face. But no, she stayed frozen until he was gone. When she no longer could hear him she walked to the open hall of the entrance to the palace. She watched as the men walked out of the city as all the women mourned for them. Once they were on the other side of the walls she could no longer see what was occurring and she thanked the Great that she did not have to experience the death of any one. Time passed slowly, she could feel Zan was alive but greatly distressed. Which of course made her distressed. Then suddenly she heard her name as though it was carried in the wind and now she could no longer feel Zan. No. She whispered. Immediately tears flowed freely, she had become numb and could not even tell they were coming out. The king's mother knew and tried to comfort her daughter-in-law. Ava. She said as she tried to place a hand on her shoulder. Mother… please don't. The Queen managed to speak in between silent sobs. You must go and hide, or else he will kill you. Ava knew that in mere seconds Kivar would raid the castle and kill all that opposed. As well as you two. Now she pointed at her young maidens. Go with the Queen Mother. Take her to your home land; keep her until it is safe. Inside she felt that it could perhaps be years or never. The maidens held the Queen Mothers hands and ran with her to the back of the palace, a carriage awaited them.

The queen's breath got slower and slower. The gates of the city had burst open and as a plague Kivar's men ran around causing destruction. About 50 ran towards, the palace. Ava waited alone and frightened. They raised arms at her and she mind warped all of the, dead they fell to the ground. She didn't break a sweat. There stood Kivar, 7'0 feet tall, eyes blacker than the universe, hair that fell beneath his shoulder in a pony tail and with an evil face that could frightened the devil himself.

My dear, I never thought the king would put you as the last line of defensive. How inconsiderate of him. Kivar snickered a bit as he watched the fury grow in Ava. Do not speak of the king, you are an insect and do not deserve such a privilege. She stood her ground waiting for him to attack. I was here before the precious king could walk, he should feel honored that I even fought him. Such a foolish boy. Such a foolish family. Ava's blood boiled. This man obviously held no respect for the royal line. He had to die. Her fury got the best of her and she attacked him first with a mind warp and then physically. Nothing, not even a scar made its way on him. He continued to stand seeming with ever minute more and more impatient. Join me Ava, give me an heir and I shall not harm you. His words made her feel sick to her stomach. You are a sick man Kivar! Ava exclaimed as she tried to destroy his, but it was just too powerful. As she began again he ran to her and grabbed her from the back. You are so lovely, no woman in the land could compare to you. Kivar spoke as he fondled the queen. Such a pity. Ava felt a sharp pain. Kivar released her and she stumbled as she felt her back. Blood warm and thick was pouring out with her life in tow. I'm sorry Zan. With her last words she fell. Darkness.

End of Dream

AVA! Max yelled after he awoke from the last memory. He glanced at his alarm, it was 6:00 am. No point going back to sleep. The thought sprung in his mind. His feet touched the cold ground and he shivered a bit. Tess. He spoke out loud to himself. Her face came to mind again, calling out to him with her hand extended. Max wanted so bad to touch her face. But you are gone. He said as his hand slumped to his side. It was Saturday, the perfect day to speak with Michael and Isabel about his dream/memories. He walked over to the phone and dialed Michael's number. It rang a couple of times. Hello? Came a sleepy voice from the other end. Michael it's Max. What is it Max? Michael turned over and saw that it was 6:30 am. This better be important man, it's too early on Saturday for anything stupid. Max stayed silent for a brief couple of minutes. I've… I've been having memories of us and when we died. Michael said nothing. I need to speak with you and Isabel today. Max spoke almost afraid for requesting a meeting. Do you think this has anything to do with Tess leaving? His second in command was strangely calm. In most cases Michael would start yelling about not letting him know before. We can talk about all that when we meet up. The best location would be out in the desert where the pods used to be. Michael agreed and they hung up. Now to tell Isabel. Max told himself.

Isabel found herself in one of her Alex dreams. They sat at a table for two with candles all around. I miss you so much. Her eyes began to water. I know. Alex responded in a very calm tone. I'm sorry I didn't let things between us happen. Tears freely ran down Isabel's cheek. It's ok, I was happy being near you. Alex now stood and stretched a hand out to Isabel. May I have this dance milady? Of course. Isabel responded wiping tears away. They slowed dance in all her dreams, it was the only thing that kept her from going crazy.

Swiftly she turned, in the distance she could hear Max calling her. Isabel…Isabel! She turned back around and Alex smiled. It's time to go. Now letting go of her. But… not yet. Isabel cried out. Don't be sad we will meet again I promise. Alex was now gone and darkness surrounded her. Max's voice became louder and louder. ALEX! Isabel yelled as she sat up. Izzy are you ok? The boy king felt bad for disturbing her, she had had a pleasant smile on her face while she slept. It took a minute for the once princess to process waking up. Slowly she turned to Max and was clearly annoyed with him. What are you doing here Max? She arranged her hair and sat up better. Get ready; we are meeting with Michael in the desert. He stood to leave. Why? She was aggravated with his constant bossy ways. I've been having memories about all of us and I felt like I needed to share. He began to walked towards the door. Memories? Isabel said out loud. Max turned around and consented then walked out.

Through out the whole ride Isabel and Max didn't speak. As they approached they saw Michael leaned against his bike not really looking too happy to see Max. So here we are. Max spoke. Isabel and Michael just nodded. Start talking Maximilian. The animosity that came from Michael was terribly obvious. Fine. Max replied starting to feel irritated by the treatment. I've had three dream/memories. All of which consist of our different deaths. Isabel's eyes widened, could she bare to hear how she died a traitor? You went first Michael, Kivar killed you in battle. You were second Izzy, after I found out about your betrayal Kivar destroyed your mind and you died. In my arms. He finished. I was third I died in battle to Kivar also and Tess died the same day fighting against Kivar as well. That's basically the summarized version. Max took a deep breath. I came to the conclusion that we were placed in the pods in the order that we died in. He was done. Makes sense. Isabel spoke first. You can't even begin to imagine how powerful he is, we where strong in our past lives, stronger than now but he is 10 times stronger. The king looked to the ground as he finished his thoughts. Basically you're saying he is like 100 times stronger than us now. Michael continued to have a sarcastic expression. No Michael I'm not basically saying it, it is the truth. Max looked sharply at Michael as he talked to him. What is the big deal Max? We are here Kivar is on Antar. Izzy said. The big deal is that if Tess for some reason survives. Which he prayed that she would. And she comes back, Kivar could very well follow and to be honest with you I don't want any of us to die again. The realization dawned on Michael and Isabel. Max what makes you think she can survive? You said it your self she has nothing to give to Kivar. Max now felt nervous. I just have a feeling. More like a connection he thought. It was obvious that Michael didn't buy it at all but he kept it to him self. Well is she comes back, who says she will survive? Both men stared at the tall blonde. Whether you are from Earth or Antar or Mars, you don't have the right to kill anyone. Isabel sighed. We will deal with one thing at a time Izzy. If she returns we will take care of what she's done. Max hated sounding like he would hurt Tess, he didn't want to, but she had to pay one way or another.

Max continued on and this time he was more detailed, re-telling them what he saw, how it felt. This took some time.

No way! We have elf type ears. Isabel grabbed her ears. Eeeewww creepy! She exclaimed. That's not a big deal. Michael chimed in. The fact that we are freakishly tall is what gets to me. So you're telling me that we looked a lot like we do now except tall, elf ears and with eyes completely the color that we have except no white part. His sister and friend looked like children. Yeap that's exactly how it is. Well Antarian women have skin that glows. At that Isabel spoke. Glowing skin? Like a night light? Seriousness covered her face. No, no. Like when girls put glitter on except it's natural. From what I could tell royal women have a golden glow. Regular women have a silver glow. It's actually quite pretty. Max concluded. Man you sounded so gay "it's actually quite pretty". Michael quoted teasing Max. The three laughed, this talk was somewhat mending the tension. What now Max? Isabel asked serious once again. I think Izzy all we can do is wait. They looked at each other and agreed.

Space…

Oh my! Tess exclaimed as she peaked through the window. Beneath a planet about the size of Earth but it was red. I'm home…

To be continued.