Homecoming is Around the Corner

Like Agent Smith had promised he had kept his eyes on everyone for the past month. They were all quite aware of his presence since he had decided that being obvious would be the best strategy in catching them in the act. But like Max had said they all showed off normal teenage activities. What the rest of the group didn't know was that being normal began to become difficult for Liz as her powers grew.

I set another thing on fire last night. Liz whispered to Maria as they changed in her room. What was it this time? She asked as she made sure her hair looked perfect. A stupid CD Max gave me last year. Maria turned around and placed her hands on her hips. Girl, this fire thing is definitely product of your anger towards Max. Think about it. Every time you think about him you get mad and when you do, things start to burn. Liz rolled her eyes. I kind of already noticed that. They both giggled and Maria plopped down next to her friend. You know what's odd? She said as she looked at Liz. What? Liz replied. Well that night at the dessert when he tried to fix you it seemed like you were able to control the power. Liz scrunched her eyebrows together not understanding what she meant. Come on Liz! After you made him stop you like totally yelled at him. That was the ultimate angry I have ever seen you. Now if my little theory is right you should have been lighting up like a Christmas tree. Strangely enough Maria's little theory made sense, but it was still to be proven if it was indeed emotions that triggered the powers.

We should hurry up; I bet you anything Agent Smith is downstairs. Liz said as she walked out. I can't argue that fact. Maria responded as she followed.

Antar…

Finally the remaining time had passed and unfortunately for them they had been stopped by a small group of Royal Guards that had been sent to search all rural areas. The fortunate part was that they knew Larek to be on Kivar's safe list and proceeded to let him go with out thoroughly searching his entire caravan.

Tess peaked her head out as news of the Eastern gates being spotted had been heard from her driver. Surely there they stood seeming almost 100 feet tall and made of precious metals and jewels. Once anyone passed the gates they were automatically granted immunity from Kivar. Wow, by the Great Beyond. I have never seen anything so magnificent. Tess explained as she continued to be in awe. Anali smiled at Tess' child like reaction. In a moments notice the caravan had come to a halt and the moment she had been preparing for was about to occur. She watched as Larek approached a guard, because of the distance she could not hear what they were discussing and she sat back waiting for him to fetch her. What do you think they are saying? Tess asked Anali hoping for a clue. I have no idea Ava. As she continued to watch she noticed the guard running back to his station, whatever Larek had told him compelled him to make a phone call. Suddenly the gates began to open and the caravan to proceed. Tess smiled at Anali and she gladly returned it in the back of her mind she worried if it all would result as her Queen wished.

The caravan moved along the same path that seemed to go right through the Eastern Province, it's destination from what Tess could tell was a rather large complex at the end. A good half and hour passed and the caravan came to a second halt, this time it was outside the doors of the complex. The door to Tess' carriage flung open and she felt hesitant to move an inch. It's alright Ava, you will do just fine. Anali reassured her. As they both exited they were not so welcomingly greeted by a rather angry robust man. He looked at her with what she could only define as repulsion and she in turn did the same. Quickly his gazed turned to Larek. I thought we agreed you would never come here again Larek. The robust man spat out his displease. Believe me Meneole it isn't a pleasure to see you either. Larek replied just as harshly. So what is this ridiculous notion that you have brought the Queen of Antar to me? Meneole said in a mocking tone. I never thought you to be one of those to try and deceive me. Yet again you would be a fool to bring some one to me unless you really believed the creature to be the Queen. When he said creature he pointed to Tess. I' am the Queen. Tess announced trying to be as confident as possible. We shall see about that. Meneole answered giving Tess an intensely cold look. Before I submit this human to any test I want to know what you want. Meneole once again returned his gaze to Larek. First of all you will not speak or look at her majesty in such a manner. Meneole smirked at Larek's words. And second of all? He questioned. If you establish that she is indeed Ava you will take us to the Life Givers, for it is her wish. Meneole stood silent for a brief moment. If she is who you think she is I will take her to them gladly.

He turned around and signaled for them to follow and that they did. Tell me Larek, why would you think this human thing is Ava? Larek smiled and he looked back at Tess. Well Meneole if you care to remember when the Royal Four died their essence was used to remake alien hybrids and if you recall those hybrids were sent to Earth to live amongst the humans. Thus giving her that appearance. Larek concluded. I know that you fool, what is to say she isn't a skin or a shape shifter. He asked. I know because I met her on Earth when I went to the summit and she got here thanks to the Granolith. Besides that if you haven't cared to listen Kivar is enraged searching for her. Larek looked to Meneole who seemed unfazed. So she escaped Kivar, perhaps she is Ava.

They walked through a serious of rooms and just as Tess was about to complain Meneole announced the test was about to begin. As everyone knows the Royal Four have a distinguishing mark that helps us identify them from imposters. The King has the map of our Solar System marked on his brain. The other royals have the crest of the Royal Fours marked on theirs. If this alien hybrid girl is who she claims to be the mark will appear once I place my hand on her forehead. Anali and Larek were asked to leave the room and Tess stood alone with the disgusting fat man. Now young one come here. Meneole said. Reluctantly she did. He placed his hand on her forehead and instantly the Royal crest burst forth lighting the room. By the Great Beyond. Meneole said removing his hand. He looked at Tess and quickly fell to his knees. Ani Kelen please forgive my insolence; understand that I needed to be sure. Tess rolled her eyes at the groveling. Get up. I understand why this needed to be done. Please now take me to the Life Givers. Meneole stood. Of course Ani Kelen what ever you wish. He rushed to the door and walked past Larek and Anali. Tess simply followed gesturing them to follow her. It must have gone well. Anali said to Larek. Of course she is the Queen. They smiled to each other and wondered what was occurring. Meneole had reached what seemed like an elevator door. The doors open and he led them all in.

The Life Givers are in an undisclosed area known to few. This chamber will lead us directly to them. The elevator like room began to descend and then in a swift movement it went to the left, then up, then to the right and then down again quickly coming to a stop. Tess felt a bit ill from the ride and was helped by Larek to walk. That was awful. She complained. I apologize Ani Kelen; the Life Givers are in a rather strange and difficult spot to reach easily. The robust man answered. She began to notice her surroundings and all around her give signs that this was definitely a laboratory. A movement was seen and in a moments notice four very old men stood before them with large smiles. Tess approached Anali and pulled her down for a whisper. They are the Life Givers? She questioned almost in doubt. Yes Ava. Anali responded. Well for helping create life they look like they are about to die. Anali smiled a bit. Don't say such things. Meneole and Larek had approached the man standing in the middle and instantly the old men fell to the ground. Ani Kelen, welcome. They said in unison and with a funny accent. Please excuse my English; it has been many years that I have been in need of it. Tess walked over to them and hugged them all. Thank you for your helping me. Meneole seemed surprised at Tess words but decided not to question her at the moment. Follow us Ani Kelen. And so she did, alone. We are glad you have come so soon but we have some bad news about the clone. She stopped in her tracks and waited to hear what they had to say. He awoke not too long ago and was very unsettled and violent so we were forced to heavily sedate him until your arrival. She sighed a bit and gave thanks that he wasn't dead. Here he is. They said in unison and pointed to a long tube. He floated completed undressed with only a mask covering his face. Fortunately his area was covered by a strip the crossed the tube. What is the mask passing to him? She asked a bit concerned. It is artificial oxygen, without it he would have died.

She approached the glass feeling like it was all a dream. She placed her hand on it and his eyes suddenly opened looking down to her. He began to shake frantically and the glass to crack. Move away Ani Kelen! One of the men yelled and she complied. He pressed a button and the contents on the tube were expelled from the bottom. Tess stood in shock. Where did you send him? She said rather loudly. It is quite alright we have sent him to be dressed for you. Before you go Ani Kelen, did the King ever heal this human? Tess thought to herself. No he never did. She responded. Good, good. The old man repeated. Why? She asked now curious. He is completely human we are not in danger of him having powers. He began to walk away but Tess stopped him. You mean to tell me that if Zan heals humans over time they get powers? She couldn't believe it to be true. That is what happens when we heal anyone outside our race; a gene inside them becomes a replica of one of our own letting them have powers. Now please follow me to your human. Tell me Life Giver is there any way to cure the gene? Tess asked as she followed him down a stair case. Only if the Royal Four come together with the power of the healing stones will the replica gene return to normal. She understood and asked no more. They reached the end. I can not go with you; if he sees me he will be more distressed. She nodded and proceeded on her on.

As she got closer she could hear the commotion he caused from his fear and she felt guilt that she was once again hurting him. She touched the door and wondered what she would say. The door opened and there he was crouched on the floor as though trying to hide. Please don't hurt me! He said loudly. She closed the door behind her. It's ok I wont hurt you. He began to lower his arm as the voice sounded familiar to him. He looked at her and immediately stood. Tess! He yelled. Did they get you too? He said running up to her. No, I wasn't captured. I need you to relax, I can explain everything. Tess tried to comfort him but he would not have it. I don't understand! The last thing I remember is getting ready to go over to your house and talk about what I discovered. Suddenly he remembered what it was that he had uncovered. Oh my God! You are doing this to me, aren't you? You brought me to this place so I couldn't tell the others what you were up to. Tess rubbed her forehead. It was back to square one. No Alex it's not like that you need to listen to me. She yelled but he continued to ramble. Her patience reached the breaking point and she used her powers to throw Alex against a wall. Now you will listen to me and stop rambling. He simply nodded in fear. I had no idea that Nassedo made a pact with Kivar. You can choose to believe me or not. Right now that's besides the point. The point that I'm getting at is going to freak you out but it will prove that I had no intention of hurting Max or the others. Alex…you died that day you came to see me and it was me that killed you but you have to know it was by mistake. Alex looked at his hands and shock his head. No, you are lying! He yelled. He stood to charge at her but she held him back. I tried to make you stop saying that I was guilty so I tried to mind warp you but it went wrong. I tried to cover it up but Liz found out and I came here alone with the sole purpose to bring you back to them. So stop accusing me because you have no idea how I repaid for my mistakes. Her grip loosened and he fell to the ground. What am I? He asked with Tears in his eyes. You are Alex Whitman. He didn't understand. Where are we? He asked even more confused. We are on Antar. Tess said it slowly. His eyes widened in his typical manner of disbelief. We are on your home planet? He asked. That's right. Tess replied.

Alex placed his hands on his head and tried to piece it all together. Let me get this straight. You killed me and according to you it was unintentional. Liz found you out and you left Roswell to your home planet to escape being put in jail. Is that right? He asked in an "I give up tone". Just about, except I didn't leave because of jail I did it to bring you back. Alex looked at her. You mean to tell me you traveled all the way to this place just to bring me back to life, why? She sighed a bit and sat beside him. Because you mean the world to everyone back at Roswell and I stole you from them. I had to give them back their happiness. Alex looked at Tess suddenly realizing that she wasn't some heartless alien that Liz and Maria always pictured here to be. How'd you do it Tess? He asked. I broke into your room and stole hairs from your brush. Her answer was so nonchalant. I see. What now? Was the key question she herself was wondering. The plan is to get us both back to Earth before Kivar kills us. She said walking towards the door. Kivar as in Isabel's past life lover. He hoped to hear a no. The one and only. Listen you have to stay here or else you will die in our atmosphere, take the time to rest because we might not have any. I'm going to find out about or transportation. He nodded and sat back down. This was a lot to process in one day.

Earth…

The day continued and Agent Smith had moved on from Liz and Maria to Kyle at the shop. Look Smith, if you don't have a car in need of a tune up or change of wheels you can't just continue to stalk me like this. Kyle spoke in his usual sarcastic mode. Even as a Federal Agent he understood the owner of the shop could make him leave if he had no reason to stick around. He reluctantly walked to his car and it gave Kyle a sense of accomplishment. Of course that only lasted a brief couple of seconds as Agent Smith pulled his car up. I'd like the works done to my car. He said smiling knowing that it would take a long time. Kyle threw his rag down and walked to the car. Fine, but it will cost you. He snatched the keys and proceeded to work while Smith just watched.

Time passed and Kyle fortunately had completed the task at hand which could mean Agent Smith would move on to someone else in the group. He wiped the car down and Smith walked to him. He placed a 20 in his pocket and leaned in. You could have used your powers to get it done quicker, don't you think? He said mockingly as she left. Kyle looked at the 20 and threw it to the ground. Last thing I need is dirty government money.

Antar…

Kivar sat on his throne looking as though he would kill anyone that came near him. How can you stand there and tell me that you haven't been able to find her. SHE DOES NOT LOOK ANYTHING LIKE US! His yell echoed through the corridors. Your highness, where ever she went they have made sure to keep her well hidden. The guard answered fearfully. I do not care for your excuses Soren, you lead my entire army and you can't even find a little hybrid girl. Pathetic is what you are! He said loudly. Now you have exactly one minute to tell me something good or believe me I will have Nikolas skin you and make you eat your own flesh. His black eyes seem to be consumed by evil. Guards reported stopping Larek on his way to the Eastern Province. Kivar sat back. Why is Larek here in Antar? He asked puzzled. We have no idea. We did not bother him or search the contents of his caravan. Soren said swallowing slowly. Oh Soren, you can follow my rules when it comes to Larek but you can't find Ava. He raised his hand and in seconds a pile of dust was all that remained of Soren. Jolek you will replace Soren. Find Ava or you will end up the same. The newly appointed commander bowed and left.

Antar…Easter Province…

Tess ascended the steep stairs ready to ask Larek of her promised shipped. When she reached the top Anali, Meneole and Larek all stood waiting for her to come back. How is he? Anali asked as she approached. He is well considering all he knows and has seen. Tess responded sounding relieved for once. Who is this person you all speak of? I demand to know! Meneole let out forgetting about who Tess was. She walked to him and he began to sweat. I requested the service of the Life Givers to make a clone of someone who died, do you have a problem? Her gazed narrowed and he stepped away. What ever you wish will be done but if I may say Ani Kelen, disturbing death is quite preposterous. Tess' eyes opened in surprise. The Royal Four were brought back that way and you don't seem to mind, what difference is it now? Meneole stayed quite contemplating his next words. The fate of our world lay in the hands of the Royal Four when they died we were lost. We brought you back to save us and take back what is theirs. How can you compare that to a mere human who will have nothing to do with our lives. He finished and wiped his forehead. His existence is the key to bring the rest of the royals back, you will never understand and I couldn't explain it. She now turned to Larek. Please tell me I have a ship. I need to leave tomorrow. He looked at her seriously and then with sadness. The rebels did not keep their word. I'm sorry Ava we have no ship for you. Tess felt the tears prickle the sides of her eyes. I couldn't have made it this far just to have to settle for not going back. She said looking at the floor feeling the tears drop. A ship? Why do you need a ship Ani Kelen? You came and now you are leaving so quickly. Meneole said sounding appalled. What is the meaning of your actions? He questioned not caring who she was. Well you little fat man do you think I can fight Kivar alone? She burst out in a sudden moment of anger. Everyone stared at her completely shocked. I'm sorry but I need to get back to Zan and the others if we all want to have a future. Meneole looked upset. I have a hand full off ships. What do you have in mind Ani Kelen? He asked openly annoyed. I just need something that will get me there in one piece and as fast as possible. Tess said smiling. It will be done. But not today, it must be prepared and fueled. He said as he began to walk towards the elevator like chamber. How long? Tess called out. It will be ready this time tomorrow. He answered. They all followed except Tess who wanted to speak with a Life Giver before leaving. Ani Kelen? Are you leaving? One of the old men asked coming out from behind a table. Yes, but only until tomorrow. Please prepare all that he will need to survive the trip. She said running towards the elevator. As you wish. The man bowed.

To be continued…

Aren't I so evil? HEHEHEHE! Soon, very soon guys so hang in there! Please Review!

I want to take this moment and thank everyone that has reviewed my little story (thankfully no bad reviews yet). And I wanted to answer Running-Wild22's question about Larek. Yes he is the ruler of his own planet in my story but what I maybe should have elaborated on was that he basically came to help Tess out a bit. To avoid any other confusions. The reason Kivar has other people leading his troops is because Nikolas is still on Earth. If anyone has anymore questions, please e-mail me.