Author: Ansleyrocks
Disclaimer- I do not own any of these characters
Added note-Takes place in present day so Dark Angel is in our time period. In DA it is at the end of season 1 and Zack did not die and max was not shot. They all made it out okay with the added help of Liz. In Roswell it takes place after season 2.
Summary-Liz is an X5 who was one of the original escapees. She was adopted by the parkers and is living in Roswell New Mexico. Maria and Liz's parents know she is an X5, but what happens when Isabel finds out at a sleepover, and when a few X5's show up to visit their baby sis Liz.


Lost with out you
I Elisabeth Parker am lost. No not lost as in took a wrong turn on the highway, and am on the other side of the state lost. But lost as in my life is way too crazy and is now spinning out of control. You see my ex boyfriend and his sister and best friend and the other girl who made my life hell are aliens. Now before you say go check yourself into the nearest hospital there’s more. You see I was shot in the stomach and Max, the ex, healed me. Then he told me their secret and I was, assumed by them, to jump up and down at their every command. I even dragged my two best friends and another ex boyfriend into this. Everything was going great I was dating Max, my best friend Maria was dating Michael Max’s best friend and Alex my other best friend was getting closer and closer everyday to his dream girl Max’s sister Isabel when all of the sudden Tess shows up with their protector creating this new drama. You see Tess was Max’s wife on their home planet and kept pushing the Aliens to pursue their destiny, which conveniently enough did not include the three of us.

It was after Alex’s death when things started to get worse. I found out Max slept with Tess, got her pregnant and that Tess was the one who killed Alex. Max then let Tess get away. Maria I am so angry with I could give her to the nomiles. Michael and Kyle were the only ones on my side the others thought I was crazy. We eventually got Maria to believe me then Isabel and of course last Max because he wanted to believe his precious Tess was all sweet and innocent. So now Tess is gone Alex is dead, Isabel heart broken because she was just now realizing how great Alex really was, Maria and I are friends again, and Max is now groveling at my feet saying how sorry he is and how he needs to find his son.

Of course he expects me to help when it could yet again compromise me and give away were I am to Manticore.

You see none of my friends, except Maria and Kyle, know what I am, and besides them my parents. I am X5 513 a transgenic who escaped with her siblings from the monsters who created us to be the perfect soldiers. There were twelve that escaped that night all those years ago, but after the escape I was only allowed to keep in contact with Zack our eldest brother and CO. Whenever we would need anything all we had to do was call his voice mail. I have somewhat of an idea how the others are doing because I saw Max, Krit, and Syl when we took down Manticore. I also saw Brin who was captured and turned back into a mindless super solider by Manticore. She died when helping us because the small part that was left in her of her old self still felt the need to protect us. Zack, Max, Krit, Syl, and I got out okay with the help of Logan, Max’s boyfriend, and an unusual ally Lydecker the former head of Manticore.

So now here I am a month after Tess left sitting on my balcony whishing I was in Seattle with Max were I would finally be able to meet Alec, who is the clone of my older brother Ben but the exact opposite and is said to be the biggest smart mouth, or off checking up on my older brothers and sisters with Zack.

Maria is coming over and is due any minute along with Isabel.
After Maria and I made up we became closer to Isabel and now continue the weekly girl’s night ritual. We usually watch movies gossip and stay clear of all alien and transgenic subjects.

“Chica tell me how cute my new outfit looks.” Maria said coming up onto my balcony after dropping her stuff off in my room.

“Awesome.” She is wearing a baby blue short skirt, a white sparkling tube top, with a matching baby blue bag and sparkling white sandals.

“Hey guys sorry I’m late my mom was lecturing me again on how I need to spend more time with my brother and try to find out what’s wrong. So I told her he was depressed because no one will baby-sit him anymore.” Isabel said annoyed. She was right though none of us have really spent much time with Max lately because we don’t want to hear him whine all of the time.
Three hours later in the living room

The girls had ordered two pizzas and finished them all. They had the house to themselves due to Mr. And Mrs. Parker being out of town for the week. They had just gotten done watching Whatever It Takes staring Shane West. During the whole movie Liz kept having steamy thoughts about Shane West. She was feeling hot and fidgety now sort of how a person gets after watching a porno not a chick flick.

“Collin Hanks was funny in that movie.” Maria giggled

“Yea but did you get a load of Shane West man talk about fine.” Liz purred letting her thoughts travel again.

“Liz you okay you seam really flushed?” Isabel asked worried. It was at Isabel’s statement it hit Liz why she was so hot and thinking about jumping all the guys in the movie.

“OH GOD I ‘M IN HEAT” which received a worried look from Maria and a confused look from Isabel.


Part 2

~ indicates someones thoughts.


“OH GOD I ‘M IN HEAT” which received a worried look from Maria and a confused look from Isabel.

“Ah Liz, what do you mean your in heat your not a cat?” Isabel asked thinking it was a joke.

“Oh no, Liz I think you should tell her. She will understand probably.” Maria said sitting down next to Liz putting a hand on her arm as a signal she was there for her, Maria could feel the heat coming off Liz. If Liz was normal she would have been worried

“Okay. Isabel Maria is right I should tell you. You see I am not exactly human either…”

“Wait what? What do you mean?” Isabel asked fear evident in her voice.

“Isabel I was created in a government lab. I am part of a series of super humans who were created to be the ultimate soldiers. Were are transgenic which are hybrids of human and animal DNA making them have the strongest of abilities from both. They were created in series from X1’s all the way to X7’s. The X5’s were the first successful batch. I am an X5; my designation is X5 513. My unit and I escaped when I was ten I was the youngest, twelve made it. We have all had to hide since. Just a while back a few of my brothers and sisters and I along with one of my sisters boyfriends and the old head of Manticore, the place we escaped from, teamed up to take it down; we did. Aside from Maria only my parents and Alex knew.” Liz said fearful Isabel would hate her now for not being honest and that she would tell the others.

Isabel seeing the look on Liz’s face when she was done was enough to convince her that this was still Liz and that they were a lot a like both in fear of being caught and scared they wont be accepted. “Liz I am glad you told me I don’t think any different of you, if anything I think more highly of you that you are so good at hiding and I am glad you are trusting me with your secret.” Isabel said giving Liz a small smile.

“So do you have any questions?” Liz asked a little unsure of what to do.

“Yea you said you had animal DNA in you, what kinds and why?” Isabel asked curies as to her friend’s abilities.

“There is cat for sight, hearing and jumping, and I think even a little shark because we don’t need much sleep and can hold our breath for long periods of time.” Liz said.

“Cool”

The next day in the café

Last night Liz stayed up along with Maria all night telling Isabel everything she knew. Maria even through in all of the wacky times she had seen Liz use her abilities. They all agreed not to tell the boys not even Michael. Isabel also got to see how out of it Liz got during her heats but Maria assured her that Liz would be fine and that the first day is the worst and that it only lasts for three days. As Maria and Isabel were sitting at the gangs usual both talking as Liz held up the place while her parents were gone in walked the last person Liz wanted to see today; Max.

“Hey Is, Maria have fun last night?” Max asked in a not so eager voice. He looked bad, hair all ruffled, ripped blue jeans and a dirty black t-shirt. I guess he did not get much sleep.

“Yea.” Isabel said not really wanting to talk to her brother because she was still angry with him for letting Tess get away.

“Good. Is ah Liz here?” Max asked looking around eagerly.

“Yeah since her parents are away she has to run the place, so I don’t think she really has time to talk to you.” Maria said pointedly.

“No one is here except us and a few others I am sure she has time.” Max said getting up after he has spotted Liz entering the back room with a cell phone in hand. Max never knew Liz even owned one. As he approached the door of the back room he could hear Liz talking so he stopped so as not to disrupt her, though the door he could hear her end of the call.

“No Zack I had to tell her she heard me yell it. It’s not like I could just say oh just kidding when she saw the way I looked.” Liz said in a somewhat pleading voice. “It seems to be better then it was last night but I still feel all hot and I can smell every guy in the room and it is driving me crazy.” Liz said quietly.

~Who is Zack~? Max decides to wait and listen more. “I know but she trusted me enough with her secret why can’t I trust her?” Liz asked Zack

~Wait Liz has a secret and who did she tell. Maybe I can have Isabel find out what the secret is if I find out who she told~ he knew his sister would do it because he has been down lately and would do anything to cheer him up.

“Thanks Zack and please don’t give her a hard time just because of who she is related to because she is on my side on this one.” Liz said, and this just made Max even more confused. “Okay tell the others I love them and to keep safe and tell Logan to be good to her other wise I will kick his @#$%. Love ya bye.” Liz said hanging up. When Max heard Liz say love you he felt like a knife went through his heart.

In the back room Liz had just gotten off the phone with Zack and was feeling ten times better. Zack told her all is well with the others and should be by in a few days to check up on her. He was not too happy about Liz telling Isabel who she was, but he knew Liz trusted her. He was also worried that Liz might go and screw the next guy she saw because of her heat. As Liz was getting ready to go back out into the café she sensed someone was listing in behind the door as well as smell it was a male; she hoped who ever it was that they heard nothing.

As Liz stepped out of the back room she ran right into Max who she assumed was listing in. ~I so don’t have time for this what does he want now~?

“Hey Liz how are you?” Max asked trying to sound like his world was not coming to an end.

“Fine excuse me I have to get back to work.” Liz said and walked away and went over to sit with Maria and Isabel clearly not working.

“So how did Zack take the news that Isabel knew?” Maria asked knowing how protective Zack was of Liz.

“He was a little annoyed and a little unsure if Isabel was okay because she is Max’s sister and he did not know if she would tell Max, but I cleared it all up. Zack was worried about my little “problem” but he knows that I can handle it. He also said he will be here in a few days” Liz said smiling.

“Great I can not wait to meet him from what Maria says he is interesting to put it mildly.” Isabel said smirking; Maria had told Isabel about the time when Liz and Maria had gone skinny dipping and Kyle and Alex had snuck around the trees and were watching only to be caught by Zack and thrown into the deep end of the lake then later being tied up to a tree for five hours until Zack told Liz were they were and she had to go cut them out.

“Yea he is great you just have to do what he says and alls well. Oh and you have to be nice to his siblings other wise look out.” Maria said in mock terror.

“Well Isabel will get to meet him soon he is coming down here sometime to check up on me.” Liz said.

“Oh no I have to go before my mom goes on the war path. I am supposed to watch the store today while she and the sheriff go on their date.” Maria said with a look of disgust.

“See you tonight at seven right?” Liz asked.

“Right the three of us and that new club Flash.” Maria said and then she was out the door.

“Yea I better get going as well mom already told me last night I had to run errands today for her.” Isabel said then left.

Max saw his sister leave and knew now was the time to ask her.
Running to catch up with her Max yelled “Isabel” after she stopped he asked, “Do you know Liz’s secret?”

Part 3
Max saw his sister leave and knew now was the time to ask her.
Running to catch up with her Max yelled “Isabel” after she stopped he asked, “Do you know Liz’s secret?”

Isabel was shocked about what Max said because she knew for a fact Liz never told him. So what could he be talking about? Did he listen in on one of their conversations? Yea that was probably it he has been desperate lately. ~I can deflect this. Just don’t go into detail about anything~

“Yea don’t you I mean everybody does where have you been?” Isabel said pretending like the whole world knew something about Liz except him.

“You knew and you never told me. Didn’t you think I would care that my ex girlfriend is dating someone else?” Max said his temper flaring because no one had told him. Isabel had to bite her tongue and hold her lips together to prevent her self from laughing. ~Hey I can finally pay him back for the whole Tess thing. I cannot wait to tell Liz and Maria~ Isabel thought mischievously already a plan was forming in her mind. All she would have to do is run a few things by Liz and then its pay back time!

“Oh I am really not supposed to say.” Isabel said pretending like she let something slip.

“Tell me Isabel!” Max said getting angry. ~I hate it when he orders me around. But for Liz I will do what he says and tell him all about Liz’s “boyfriend”~

“Well I don’t know much just that he is in his twenties, blonde, buff, and really cute. She did not go into much detail.” Isabel said pretending to think hard.

“Blonde I never figured Liz would date a blonde. Thanks Isabel and if Liz or Maria say anything else about him let me know.” Max said in his most kingly tone.

“Okay” Isabel said while thinking ~oh the three of us are going to make you miserable~.

That night at seven

The girls earlier decided to come back over to Liz’s at seven so they can change and just hang more before hand. This is when Isabel decided it was best to run this plan of hers by them. “Hey you guys you will never believe what Max asked me this morning when I left.” Isabel said with a smile on her face.

“What?” Liz and Maria asked simultaneously, from the look on Isabel’s face it was good.

“He asked me if I knew Liz’s secret, and of course knowing he did not know I said yes and was playing up that there was this big secret that everyone but him knew. So he is like how come no one told me Liz is seeing someone else. And I was like well I will make some stuff up to get a rise out of him and I told him he was blonde, buff, in his twenties, and cute. He like flipped and told me to tell him if I find out more. When I told him I was thinking this would be good payback watching him squirm so I thought I would run it by you to see if you thought it would be a good idea to make Max jealous of Liz?” Isabel said smiling at the very idea, and from the huge smiles on Liz and Maria’s faces she knew they were on board all the way.

“Were do we begin?” Liz asked forgetting about her heat for the moment.

Earlier that evening at the Evens home

“Hey mom can I borrow your car tonight?” Isabel asked Diane Evens.

“Sure honey. Wait why not use the jeep?” Diane asked. ~Like it’s not obvious. I don’t want to have to go near Max for as long as I live~

“Because Max has the keys and if I go in there he will just baggier me about Liz and I don’t have time for his whining.” ~That and every time I see him I want to kill him! ~

“Oh all right I suppose your right.” Diane said then goes and gets Isabel her keys.

As Isabel got to her room she was suddenly stopped by the fact she heard voices in Max’s room. ~That’s odd who could he be talking to? No one can stand to be around him long enough to talk to him. ~

As Isabel kept to Max’s door she knew who it was by the sudden outburst of the second party. “Listen Maxwell, Maria and I are over if she wants to date someone else then I say who cares not me, but no you have to practically stalk your ex. Do ya want to know why no one tells you anything? It’s because you freak over the smallest things…” Michael kept ranting on and on about how Max should not keep holding on, but Isabel stopped listing until she heard the answer a question she has her self. “Anyway Maxwell how did you find out Liz was seeing another guy?”

“Well I was going to talk to her when she went into the back room with a cell phone and when I listened she was talking to some guy named Zack about a secret and how she had to tell someone who found out, and then when the conversation was done before hanging up she said…ssss…. She….she said I love you.” Max said in a dejected voice. ~so that’s how he knew he listened to Liz’s phone conversation with her brother. Ewe Max thought Liz was dating him. Hey this could work well for the plan~ then she went to her room to get some makeup to take to Liz’s.

That night at eight

Can this day get any worse? Max was listing to my end of the conversation I had with Zack and he now thinks I am dating him. I try to brush the disturbing image of Zack and me out of my head. Out of all of my brothers and sisters Zack is the only brother I have close contact with. It would just be so wrong if I were to be with Zack, with any of the people I grew up with. I constantly think back to my days at Manticore and how they made me who I am. My brothers and sisters would kill me for saying it but its true and they know it to. Even though most do not realize it I am strong and independent. I take charge of things with out the others knowing it, I always have.

I am sitting here with two of my best friends one of whom for the longest time treated me like the plague, but now we are so much closer I think our utter dislike of her brother is the reason. We are currently going over the plan to make Max jealous and all I can say is watch out Max you are about to pay oh so dearly for all of the pain you have caused the three of us. Maria, Isabel and I came up with a code name for ourselves; the troublesome triplets. You better enjoy your sweet torment Max because the troublesome triplets are putting their plan to action tonight.

Part 4
Takes place two days after part 3
Alec’s POV

Zack, Max, Logan and I arrived in Roswell around nine in the morning. Zack was so anxious to get to Liz I thought he was going to ditch us and run straight for Liz. We were parking our motorcycles and Logan’s car in the Crashdown’s parking lot; apparently the people who adopted her own the place. As we enter the place I notice the extremes these people went to with the alien them ~God even the food is themed~ we all sat at a booth and were told by Zack to keep our eyes pealed, only problem is I have never seen the girl so I really don’t know what to look for.

About ten minuets after we arrived a tiny brunette girl walks through the back door closely followed by a blonde girl who is talking very animatedly about some guy named Michael and how he has done a complete one-eighty and is so sweet now? I really cannot help but to take notice what they are wearing I mean it is pretty hard to miss ~takes guts to wear that~

“Alec, earth to Alec have you heard a word we said?” asked Max. ~Hope it was nothing important~

“No” I answer honestly. ~I was to busy checking out the help~

“I said Liz should be here some place. I wish I knew what she looked like last time I saw her I only got a glimpse and it was in the dark.” Max said looking around the restaurant.

Liz POV

Two nights ago Isabel, Maria and I went to the club; it was so much fun. We danced with so many guys; Maria in the end felt guilty and left early and went over to Michaels. Of course Isabel and I stayed and in return received numerous numbers from guys, I lost count after twenty. We left the club around one and crashed at my place, she left at about eight the next morning. I then got up and got ready for my shift.

Since Maria got here she has been yapping none stop about Michael this and Michael that. I am happy for her really its just when she goes on and on like this about how they are getting so much closer I can not help but feel like this is a slap in the face because I am single and the only relationship were I had something like that ended very badly.

“Great Maria. Oh I should go take that groups order.” I said walking over to Alec, Zack, Logan and Max’s table (not realizing who they were.)

“Hi my name is Liz I will be your server today what can I get for you?” I asked looking up into the eyes of the one person I was waiting for.

“Zack!” I yelled.



Part 5

Zack POV

When the brunette server walked over to our table to take our order I knew she looked extremely familiar yet not ~weird~ “Hi my name is Liz I will be your surver today what can I get for you?” Then she looked up at me and if the name was not a dead give away her eyes were.

“Zack!” said Liz. I get out of the booth only to have Liz jump on me which received laughs from Logan and Max and one odd look from Alec ~if I know what that look is and I do because I have seen him give it to his one night stands he is in for a long talk because there is no way he is doing THAT with my baby sister~

“Hey this is a first. You are actually happy to see me for once.” I said Liz still has not unwrapped her arms from around me or her legs for that matter.

“Hey I am always happy to see my big brother.” She said, I hear the front door open and since I am facing it I see a very hurt looking brunette kid who looks like his heart was ripped still beating from his chest and the tall blonde girl standing next to him looks like she is trying desperately to suppress a laugh. ~Okay something is definitely up. ~

Max POV

I woke up this morning feeling like I wanted to die having found out Isabel was so close to Liz, apparently a few nights ago they went to a club and it only seemed to bring them even closer. Why is Isabel still talking to Liz? She is my sister so when I am on outs with Liz she should be to and Isabel should always side with me anyway. I still can not believe Liz and I are over, I thought that since Tess was gone and we got that all cleared up things would go back to the way they used to be with me and Liz, but no she does not want the reminder of my so called “betrayal” of sleeping with Tess and that I have a son to show for it. She was the one who cheated first I mean I saw her in bed even with Kyle Valenti. Now she is apparently dating some “really cute” blonde guy as Isabel put it, so last night I decided that no matter what I would win Liz back even if it meant to permanently take this other guy out of the picture.

This morning I had a taste for a crashdown breakfast, but I cannot just walk in by my self so naturally I called Michael to come with me, he said okay; of course so I picked him up. He has this silly little smirk on his face, which is highly unusual so I had better ask him why. “So Michael what did you do last night?”

“Nothing much. Maria came over, ever since that night at the club she has felt guilty and spent so much time with me. Talk about a great girl friend.” Michael said. Why did Liz not leave early to come see me? Oh yeah that’s right I’m not her boyfriend anymore.

At last we arrive at the crash down. The place does not look too busy, just
A few regulars and a group of four; three guys and a girl, who is scoping out the place; she is probably a tourist. I see Maria waiting tables along with Liz so Michael and I head in. We notice that the new group is sitting at our usual table and Liz is taking their order.

When all of the sudden the one blonde guy gets up and Liz throws her arms and legs around him and the other people at the table just laugh like they expected it. I guess HE is Liz’s new boyfriend; he looks…fit. I guess I better go and introduce myself as the love of Liz’s life or her soul mate and have Michael put the itches on him or worse. So I pull Michael over there with me only to be stopped by a smiling Maria and oh joy Michael is smiling too. I looked at the couple and roll eyes. Guess I better go over there myself and I go unnoticed by the group until I speak.

“So you must be Liz’s new boyfriend” I said sounding very snooty I might add only to receive weird looks from all around including Michael, Maria and especially Liz.

Part 6

Liz POV

I felt Zack shift to look at something and did not immediately turn since I thought he was still scoping out the place. When Zack turned back to me I saw an odd look on his face like he was puzzled by something. I was about to ask him what was wrong when I heard HIM speak. “So you must be Liz’s new boyfriend.” Max said, and all I can say is huh? What the heck is he thinking? When I finally take notice how close Zack and I are.

I look around at the others and see some stunned and very wigged out looks, but none of them compared to the look of utter horror on Zack’s face. When he spoke up finally let’s just say it’s safe to say Max was not expecting the answer he got. “Well all I can say is grouse and no I am not Liz’s boyfriend. I am her older brother Zack and you are?” Zack asked in his trademark all business not joking around voice. The color in Max’s face drained quickly and the cocky look was replaced by one of sheer horror.

“Zack I would like you to meet my ex-boyfriend Max Evens. You remember him right?” I asked with a devilish smile on my face because I knew very well how my big brother would react.

Zack took one look at Max and Max took off running for his life with Zack running out of the café after him. Faze one of the trouble some triplets plan has been put into action and lets just say phase two is a lot more painful then getting beat up by a transgenic who is beating the crap out of the scum that broke his baby sisters heart.

Part 7

Gen. POV

When the people that remained in the café saw Max running out of the café for his life with Zack close behind him with a look that stated all to well how he felt it left the group to shocked to say anything; except for Maria and Liz. “Well I have to say I thought the fearless leader was going to wet him self.” Maria said doubling over with laughter.

“I know did you get a load of Zack's expression when I told him Max’s name he looked like he was about to go all…” Liz was cut short by Michael who was looking slightly panicked now after the effects of what happened set in.

“What do you mean big brother Liz you are an only child?” Michael asked with a very confused look on his face ~ I do not remember the Parkers ever mentioning any other kids besides Liz let alone a son~
Liz quickly darted a look at Maria, they knew they should tell Michael because he has proven to be trustworthy like Isabel.

“Michael I have something I need to tell you.” Liz said turning to look at the others.
********************
Max POV
Oh no what am I going to do I have a very pissed off older brother chasing me with a murderous look on his face. The biggest shock is I had no idea Liz had an older brother I thought she was an only child, but if the big guy chasing me is any indication I don’t know what is. I see my house down the street just a little further all I have to do is get home and I will be safe. I start to sprint faster when someone tackles me to the ground and turns me over to face them; it’s Liz’s brother.

“For years you have been watching my sister. Then one day you get the guts to ask her out only to reject her time after time. Remember that summer when Liz left to go to Florida to visit her aunt? Well she was not visiting her aunt she was with me. I had to listen to how much she loved you and how it killed her to leave you standing there. Then one day I get a call from her crying her eyes out saying you cheated on her and got some gerbil named Tess pregnant.” Zack spat as his fist hits my face and Zack continues as the blood starts to trickle down my face because he split my lip.

“That same girl who killed one of my sisters best friends who also happened to be a friend of mine. You are the reason for all of my sister’s troubles.” Again Zack’s fist hits my face repeatedly.

I finally get up enough guts and try to fight back. I try punching him in the face only to have him block it and with great speed he throws punches left and right at me as I lay helpless on the ground. After one final blow to the stomach Zack gets off me and looks down on me as I am bleeding with disgust. “You claimed to love my sister and yet you prove other wise time after time. I know what you are so don’t think your little powers will make a difference because I am so not impressed. I have seen six year olds who fight better than you and you are supposed to be some superior being.” Zack turns from me and leaves me bleeding and whimpering on the ground.

“This is not over I will fight for Liz, she is mine.”

Part 8
Max POV

After I had lay on the ground for about half an hour I gingerly got up and continued on my way home. I was planning on locking myself in my room until the others meaning Liz begged me to come out. Even though my house was a few homes down it seamed like a million miles to me. All I know is I had to find a way to get Liz back. I walk in the front door and sneak past the family room were my parents are watching a movie. As I approach my room I hear Isabel in her room on the phone laughing hysterically.

“He what?” Isabel asks the person on the other end of the phone only to break out in another round of laughs.

“No way he said that to him?” Isabel asked the person sounding mortified. They are probably talking about me so I might as well listen some more.

“Oh so he was not meant to hear it, but still I am surprised Zack did not turn around and pound him some more.” Isabel said and you can just hear the smile in her voice at the thought of Zack hitting me more.

“So onto a new topic; was that Alec I saw in there with the others?” Isabel asked the person. She must have been pleased with the persons answer because she laughed some.

“Maria I think Liz should go for it I mean the guy is hot and so totally into her you could see it by the way he would not stop staring at her.” Isabel said. So she is talking with Maria I still cannot believe the two are actually friends. The thing that gets me is that my own sister wants my girl to date another guy and who is this Alec guy anyway.

“So Maria do you want to meet Liz and I at the mall in an hour? The others are coming with.” Isabel said. This could be an opportunity to spy on them. I leave from behind Isabel’s closed door and head over to my room to heal myself. Who care’s if that guy Zack gets suspicious if he sees me with out a scratch I am hoping it will make me look tough to have walked away from that beating not having a single scratch.

“Don’t worry Liz soon we will be together no matter what.”
**************
Liz’s POV

Zack had come back to the crashdown and looked ready to kill again. Apparently Max had said something out loud thinking Zack would not hear, but of course he did and now he wants to kill Max.

Maria called a minuet ago saying Isabel and her were going to meet Zack, Max, Logan, Alec and I at the mall. Maria, Isabel and I need to pick up dresses for the school dance coming up and yes I have to go seeing as how Maria, Isabel and I are the decorating comity. We had convinced the principle that just the three of us could pull it off so it’s mandatory that we show up. We all wanted to go pick out our dresses together so we can all have a similar look without being corny but fashionable. For this we would need the others approval of what we choose. Also while we are there we need to pick up a few things for the next stage in our plan so we thought we would kill two birds with one stone.

Knock, Knock

“Come in” I yell, sitting down on my bed to put my shoes on.

“Hey Liz I was wondering if you would mind riding with Alec on his bike since I am not taking mine and the car is way to small to hold four people.” Zack asked me.

“Sure, but why can't I just ride your bike there?” I asked not that riding on the back of Alec’s bike is not great it’s just I don’t want Zack to think I am okay with it; I just want to give him a hard time.

“How about not.” He said pretending to think about it. “That thing is my baby and I trust no one with it and yes even you.” Zack said.

“Okay I will ride with Alec.” I huffed finishing tying my shoes and following Zack out my bedroom door. ~Maria and Isabel will get a kick out of this~

*********At the mall****

I have to admit riding on the back of Alec’s bike was great. He went the normal speed limit, but I still held onto him tight and let’s just say he feels rather…fit.

Isabel and Maria were waiting for us in the parking lot. When they saw that it was me who got off the bike from behind Alec they almost cracked their faces from smiling so much. As we were walking in I got this weird feeling of being watched. I stopped and looked around the parking lot and saw no one.

“Liz you okay?” Maria asked.

“Yea fine” I said thinking it was just me being paranoid so I continued on my way in.
***********
Max POV

I see all of them arrive and more importantly I see Liz get off the back of some guys bike. ~So he must be Alec~ if the smiles on Maria’s and Isabel’s faces are any indication.

I see them all head in toward the mall and I start to follow when Liz suddenly stops and looks around. I quickly hide my self behind a car. When I see her continue in I resume my following.

Part 9

Max POV
I have been following them for an hour and all they have done is go into about four dress shops. Maria, Isabel and Liz tried on many dresses and modeled them for the other four. I noticed in the first store when Liz came out in her first dress the way that Alec guy looked at her appreciatively. A few times when I saw the way he looked at my Liz I thought about blasting him, but then I remembered that Liz’s brother Zack was there and refrained form moving.

As I stood in side the store and listened to what they were saying I wanted so badly to be out there and being the one to tell Liz what looked good on her the others had no idea what they were doing.

“Oh no back to the dressing room now. There is no way you are going anywhere in that.” Zack said to Liz who was wearing a very short red dress that accented her curves perfectly. It had a low-scooped neck and was spaghetti strapped. I thought she looked good.

“What’s wrong with it? I think it looks great!” Liz said turning in a circle to show it off more.

“You look like a hooker now next dress.” Zack said with a stern look. Liz went back into the girl’s dressing room.

“Okay what do you think of this one?” Maria asked coming out in the same dress Liz had on except in a shade of dark green that made her eyes sparkle.

“I will tell you the same thing I told Liz. You look like a hooker next dress.” Zack said through clenched teeth. Maria turned and went back into the dressing room.

“Well what do you think, too conservative?” Isabel asked coming out in a long black dress with long sleeves, high neck and nothing on the dress to accent it.

“Perfect.” Zack said smiling.

“What?” That girl Max asked.

“She looks like she is going to a funeral instead of a dance Zack. Isabel that is a little to conservative.” Max said to my sister who heads back into the dressing room. Hey I thought the dress looked good on her.

“So how do I look?” Liz asked coming out in a sleek long red dress. The entire dress had an ivy type design beaded in black beads and the back is a bunch of thin crisscrossing straps all down her back till and inch above her butt. The dress was spaghetti strapped and was accented by matching red-strapped shoes.

“Wow” Alec said.

“Uh, um you look good” Logan mumbled.

“You look nice.” Zack muttered.

“You look hot girl.” Max said and I have to agree she looks perfect in that dress.

“Really? I like it too and so do Maria and Isabel. I am getting this one!” An excited Liz squealed heading back into the dressing room to change into her street clothes.

“Tada so tell me how hot I look!” Maria said coming out in long spaghetti strapped black dress with light green designs on it and black satrapy shoes.

Logan whistled, “Wow you look good.”

“Excellent, not to showy and not to conservative.” Max agreed.

“You will make Michael speechless when he sees you.” Alec said.

“I like it” was Zack’s simple answer.

“Great let me go change into my cloths I am so getting this one!” Maria headed back into the dressing room.

“Well is this any better?” asked Isabel coming out in long baby blue spaghetti strapped dress. It was very simple but it looked elegant on her and was accented by clear satrapy shoes.

“Its perfect” They all said at once

“Great” is all Isabel said going back into the dressing room to change into her clothes. I do have to admit I liked her in that dress because she did not show too much skin.
***********
Isabel POV

The three of us had picked out our dresses and were now shopping for the perfect accessories. Okay so our dresses do not match like we had originally planed, but we look good in the ones we got. We all agreed to get the same jewelry though. We thought a long silver necklace with a fake diamond heart with matching bracelet and earrings would be good.

As we were leaving the mall Liz stopped again and started looking around. “Hey Liz everything okay?” I asked

“I don’t know I keep having this feeling like we are being watched.” The others instantly went into high alert.

“You felt it too? Here I thought I was being paranoid.” Alec said a serious look on his face. We looked around the parking lot and saw no one.

“I don’t see anything, but keep a look out I have the same feeling.” Zack said. We all head back to our receptive transportation.
***********
“Sir they are leaving” said a man in a van into the phone.

“Keep following them. What ever you do don’t let them see you.” Donald Lydecker instructed the man.

“Yes sir.” The man said.

“I mean it Rath these kids are trained to be sharp and not be tracked.” With that Lydecker disconnected.

“What did he say?”

“He said to keep following them but to make sure they don’t see us, but I guess you have that covered you can just warp them into not seeing us.” Rath smirked

“Yes let’s keep following.”

“Nicholas is this really worth it can’t we just jump them you know surprise attack?” Rath asked.

“No he wants us to watch them and get to know them.” Nicholas said as Rath begins to tale the group. “Besides it will be too hard with the transgenic’s there. We wait until they are alone.”
Part 10

Maria POV

Isabel and I called our parents to ask if we could stay at Liz’s. We did not want to leave because we still had a few kinks to work out in the plan and for those we would need to talk with the other people staying with Liz.

When we were dress shopping Isabel and I noticed the way Alec looked at Liz and vice versa; I believe this could work to our advantage. So here we are at Liz’s house and the four of us are sitting in Liz’s bedroom and yes I said four because Max is here with us. We all thought it wise to include her because she is Liz’s sister and well we need her help.

“So let me get this straight. You want my help in getting back at Liz’s ex-boyfriend by torture for what he did to her?” Max asked.

“Yep” I replied

“I’m in” she said.

“Great we needed your help with some of this.” Isabel said.

“Okay so you told me the first part of the plan and how it worked out, but what happens next?” she asked the three of us.

“Well you know that shop we went into the one were we brought you in, but told the guys to wait outside?” I asked.

“Yes and you went sneaking off and told me not to ask questions and that you would tell me later.” Max answered.

“Yep and in there we bought a few things to help us.” Liz said.

“Okay so what exactly did you buy?” Max asked.

“I am glad you asked that Max” I pulled up onto the bed four bags. Max opens the one bag and quickly closes it.

“You have got to be kidding. If Zack sees this he is going to flip!” Max said smiling.
*************
Alec POV

“So what do you think they are up to?” I asked trying to sound like I was not too interested because the last thing I need is for Zack to go all overprotective brother on me.

“Knowing Maria and Liz, they are up to no good.” Zack shuddered remembering what they used to do to him.

Flash
Zack coming into the crashdown to look for Liz he needed to talk with her. He had asked Mr. Parker where Liz was and was told to go into the back. Before opening the door heard shuffling noise behind the door. He opened it to find a balling Maria and Liz sitting there trying to comfort her.

“Maria it’s not that bad.” Liz said looking sympathetic

“Not that bad? Liz the love of my life said I am a bad kisser what am I supposed to think.” Maria asked Liz more tears falling when Liz could not come up with an answer right away.

“Maria that was just one guys opinion you need to kiss others.” Liz finally said.

“Yea, but he told everyone now no guy will kiss me.” Maria said her shoulders shaking from her sobs. This whole time Zack just stood their waiting for them to notice him.

“I know what I will do. The next guy I see I am going to kiss and ask him what he thinks.” Maria said her face showing her determination. It just so happened that this was the time they chose to notice his presence.

“Zack!” Maria yelled happily. She ran right up to him and laid a kiss on him. When she pulled away she started cracking up along with Liz.

“Oh my you should have seen your face.” Liz manages to get out.

“What?” Zack asked.

“Basically we got ya.” Maria said. “Wait don’t tell me that was your first kiss.” She said becoming serious.

“What no.” Zack said. “So let me get this straight you set me up so I would see Maria break down then test it on me by kissing me?” he asked.

“Well what can I say I was board?” Liz said.
End Flash
“Yep most likely they are up to no good.” Zack took a sip of his beer.
************
Max G POV

When I first looked in the bag they had I about died. There in the bag were leather pants and a few tube tops and other reviling and sexy outfits. Looking at one of the pant sizes I am guessing these all are for Liz and if I know my sister and I do then I know what she has in store for Max Evens and that is a world of misery.

“So Liz you going to wear all of this stuff?” I asked smirking because I already know the answer.

“Yes.” She blushed.

“You see the second part of the plan was to dangle what he can not have in Max’s face and that someone else has it, but not him.” Maria explained.

“Hey what better way to torture him by showing off what he can’t have and that someone else has it. He has always been a control freak and is used to getting everything he wants so we thought we would rub it in more that the one thing he wants he will never have!” Isabel said thinking how wonderful it would be to see her brother suffer the way they did.

“So what do you need me for other than making sure Zack does not have a stroke from seeing you dressed to kill.” I asked.

“Well I am glad you asked that.” Isabel had that evil glint in her eye that the other two girls knew meant trouble.

She was about to respond when we heard a person on Liz’s balcony. Liz went to check it out only to throw a guy in the room where he landed with loud BOOM.

When Liz came back in she addressed the guy
“WHAT THE HELL DO YOU THINK YOU ARE DOING?” Liz yelled.
************
Alec POV

Us three guys have been sitting here watching TV the entire time the girls have been in there. We have been or at least I have been thinking about what Zack said and how the girls are probably up to no good. He seamed to have had experience in getting caught up in the crossfire of one of the scams they came up with.

BOOM

All three of us turned and looked at Liz’s bedroom door.
“What in the world was that?” I asked the others only to have them shrug.

“WHAT THE HELL DO YOU THINK YOU ARE DOING?” we hear Liz yell, which causes all of us to go running into her room I opened the door only to reveal a bunch of angry girls looking at the floor where some guy lay on it looking like a deer caught in the headlights. I was about to ask who he was when Zack answered my question.

“KYLE WHAT ARE YOU DOING IN MY SISTERS ROOM?” Zack bellowed. Uh oh looks like this guy is going get.

Part 11

Isabel POV

Zack came in to Liz’s room in a hurry when he heard Liz yell and the look on his face is one of furry; guess he does not like guys in his little sisters room. Kyle on the other hand looks like he is about to wet himself and I assume this is why Maria is trying unsuccessfully to not laugh.

“I…Well…I was…Liz just…” Kyle stumbled trying to explain why he was listening outside Liz’s window.

“YES” Zack asked the vain on his forehead pulsing.

“I was just coming over to talk with Liz.” Kyle said throwing his arms around Liz’s feet seeking her protection.

“Please don’t let him kill me.” Kyle begged Liz.

“Oh just let him talk Liz.” Maria said you can tell by the look on her face she is feeling sorry for Kyle and I have to admit so do I.

“Fine Kyle and I will go out on my balcony and talk.” Liz sounded rather board just thinking of the idea. The two exited her window and I expected Zack to leave her room, but no he sits down on her bed. Can you say over protective much! So since I know they will be out there for a while I might as well use this time to do something productive; like find out more about Alec and I know just the way.

“I am board want to play a game of truth or dare?” I asked shooting a look over at Maria and Max and then looking at Alec hoping they would take the hint; they did!

“Yes I love this game,” Max squealed receiving a wigged out look from Alec. I have to say I am surprised I never would have thought she would have played this game.

“What’s truth or dare?” Alec asked a very confused look on his face. Zack and Logan on the other hand look horrified at the thought.

“No way!” Zack screamed.

“Not if my life depended on it!” Logan said with wide eyes.

“What could be so bad you guys it’s just a game; right?” Alec asked a growing look of fear on his face.

“It’s nothing.” I said sweetly. “All you do is when someone asks you truth or dare you pick one. Then if you pick truth the person asks you any question they want and you have to answer truthfully or if you pick dare the person gets to dare you to do something like say jump off a building which should be no problem for you.” I said hoping he will go along with it and the other two will not say anything.

“Fine” the three guys huffed.

“Excellent” Maria said a mischievous grin on her face.
******Out on Liz’s balcony******
Liz POV

“So what did you want to talk with me about?” I asked Kyle just now noticing the worried expression on his face.

“Today I was at the mall and I saw all of you there I was about to come over when I saw someone in the shadows…” Kyle said pausing to take a deep breath and probably preparing himself for the worst. “Any way I waited till you moved on to the next store and the figure moved after you. I tailed it for a while until I could see them better… Liz it was Max he was following you all and from the looks of things he was doing so for a while.” Kyle finally tells me.

“What? Why would he do that?” I asked Kyle I mean I know Max has issues and all, but this is low even for him.

“I don’t know maybe because he is obsessed with you! I mean come on Liz the guy has been in love with you since like the third grade and knows your entire routine and habits! This just screams stalker!” Kyle yelled and I can see that this troubles him as well.

“There’s something else isn’t there?”
*****Back in Liz’s room*****
Isabel POV

“Okay Zack truth or dare?” I asked arching my eyebrow and smirking. He is pensive for a moment.

“Truth” He said in a challenging tone. This is going to be good.

“Who was your first kiss?” I asked.

“That’s easy, Liz.” He said. Okay not the answer I was expecting!

“Oh yea I remember that!” Max said rolling on the bed in a fit of laughter.

“Wait you kissed Liz?” Logan asked a grossed out look on his face.

“Yea and I got put into the detention cell for a week. Although, in my defense she was…in heat.” Zack said and at the mention of going into heat Max blushes.

“Okay my turn.” Zack said clearly wanting to change the topic. “Logan truth or dare?” Zack asked Logan.

“Truth.”

“Okay have you ever done it on a plane?” Zack asked with a straight face although I have no idea how; poor Logan he looks terrified!

“NO!!!” He screamed which causes the rest of us to bust out laughing.

“Your loss man.” Alec said. Oh yes he is perfect for our Liz!
******Balcony********
Liz POV

“Kyle just spit it out already!” I yelled having gotten impatient after waiting five minuets for him to tell me the rest.

“Liz promise me you won’t freak?” Kyle asked a puppy dog look on his face

“NO!”

“Well who cares I’ll tell you any way. On the way out of the mall I walked by a black van and inside I could have sworn I saw…Nicholas.” Kyle said his eyes saying it was the truth.

“OH NO…Kyle are you sure I mean maybe you just thought.” I tried to come up with an explanation.

“Liz I was unsure at first as well until I looked again and yes it was him I would remember the runt any where,” Kyle said.

“We have to tell the others. He is probably watching us now.” I said and lead him back into my room.
*****Back in the bedroom*****
Isabel POV

“Okay Maria truth or dare?” Logan asked.

“Dare!” Maria said right away

“I knew you would say that! Okay I dare you to kiss Zack.” Logan said smiling thinking he had bested the spunky blonde. With out hesitation and before Zack knew what was going on Maria kissed him flush on the lips only to break away a second later. I look over at Logan and see not only his mouth hanging wide open, but everyone else in the room’s is also; including Zack, Kyle and Liz. Wait.

“Liz, Kyle!” I yelled to get the others to snap out of it. Everyone’s heads whipped around to see Kyle and Liz standing there looking very grim.

“Oh no what’s wrong?”

Part 12

Liz POV

“We are being watched by Max and Nicholas.” I said looking up I see utter looks of disappear on Maria and Isabel’s faces.

“Liz no please says this is a joke.” Maria whispered

“Why don’t those two ever give up!” Isabel yelled getting up off the bed.

“Look all we know is that they are flowing us and no they are not working together.” Kyle said.

CRUNCH that does not look so good. Zack just put his fist through my wall my parents are going to love this!

“OW!” is all Zack said his eyes dark I have to say this is one of those moments where Zack looks like a serial killer. I see Zack is struggling to get his fist out of the wall so being the good sister that I am I go over and help him. Okay so his fist will not budge this is just great!

“Zack why won’t your fist come out?” I asked him which causes a guilty look to come over his face.

“I think I got it wedged between two pipes.” He mumbled. Isabel walked over to us and looked at Zack's fist in the wall and waved her hand and pulled on Zack’s fist and it came right out of my wall.

“Thanks Iz can you please fix the wall? I really do not want the parental unit to go mental on me.” I said Isabel waves her hand over the whole and it is fixed. I turn to the others and see Alec’s mouth hanging open.

“Alec you okay?” I asked him

“I think…I mean I thought Max and Zack where just joking when they told me Isabel was an alien clearly I was wrong.” Alec said a look of amazement on his face.

“Okay back onto the original topic you know the whole Max and Nicholas following us!” Zack always the whip cracker, you have to love him.

Kyle then spent the next ten minuets giving a very detailed play by play to the others of what he saw. “I can not believe it; do you think they are working together?” Max asked disgusted at the thought.

“I don’t know the two hate each other so I am skeptical.” I said.

“Yes but who knows they both have a common goal and that’s finding out as much as possible on us and you know that Max can get crazy when it comes to you Liz.” Zack said his eyes darkening again.

“So let me get this straight I know all about Max but Nicholas on the other hand I don’t get.” Alec said waiting for the others to explain.

“Nicholas is Khivar's second and has a thing for Isabel’s former self. He is like the size of a twelve to fourteen year old kid, but has enough power to wipe out the entire human race with his thoughts.” Maria said.

“Okay so clearly not a guy I want to party with.” Alec joked trying to lighten the mood.

“Okay as of right now we really cannot do anything. We need to get as much info on the situation as possible and find out their motives. Also keep on the look out skins can be anyone they look like normal humans. Whatever you do, do not go after them until we know more.” I said receiving a nod from Zack giving his okay.

“Okay so let’s just get some rest, we can get into this further tomorrow. Kyle is you staying the night?” I asked as everyone started to clear out of my room.

“Yeah if you don’t mind.” Kyle said rubbing the back of his head.

“No it’s cool.” I said as we head out of my room.

Isabel POV

They are all in danger because of me! I am the reason Nicolas is watching them! “You okay?” Zack asked from behind me causing me to jump.

“What? Yeah I am fine.” I said trying to convince him as well as myself.

“Yeah that’s why you are standing away from everyone else.” Zack said giving me a try again look. I don’t know why but I feel compelled to tell him what I am feeling.

“It’s my entire fault.” I blurted out tears coming to my eyes even as I try to suppress them they keep coming until I feel them trickling down my face.

“What’s your fault?” Zack asked softly I get the feeling he knows what I am going to say.

“That Nicolas is watching all of you. None of you need this what with all the people after you.” I said no longer trying to suppress the tears flowing freely. Zack reaches up and wipes the tears off my face with his thumb.

“Isabel this is not your fault. Nicholas is not just after you don’t worry about the rest of us we are used to being watched, chased, and captured.” Zack said the last part looking down, and this is the moment when I realize I don’t have to hide from these people. Liz and Maria I feel comfortable with because they have known my secret for a while and I have gotten used to having them around, but it is now just dawning on me that they all know how I feel.

“I know its just Nicholas is an alien and…” Zack’s lips on mine cut me off.

“Sorry I just…I have wanted to do that for a while now and now was the perfect time because it got you to calm down.” Zack said to me and I cannot help but smile.

“Well if it makes you feel any better I wanted you to do that.” I said Zack just chuckled. I stand there dumbly for a moment before I find my voice again.

“Now I know this is going to sound very forward of me but my confidence level is at a high right now so. Isabel Evens will you allow me the honor of accompanying you to the prom?” Zack asked me, talk about a heart stopper!

“YES!” I screamed causing him to wince and the others to look at us, I felt bad seeing Liz, Max, and Alec all rub their ears.

“Great so I will pick you up at your place just name the time.” Zack said and all I want to do right now is do a happy dance I am going to the prom with one of the hottest guys. Zack is second best in my book but that’s okay he knows he cannot replace Alex.

“Liz’s around seven.” Is all I can manage to say how lame is that?

Part 13

Liz POV

Hearing all that was being said between Isabel and Zack it did not shock me when she screamed YES! I was not spying I was just worried and…oh I was ease dropping, but dang when she yelled that hurt! “Wonder what that was about?” Maria asked.

“Zack asked her to the prom.” Max, Alec and I said simultaneously.

“What?” Logan asked the three of us causing us to look guilty.

“Liz did the three of you use your “Special” abilities to listen in on their conversation?” Maria asked me but is directing the question at Max and Alec as well.

“We were not ease-dropping just listening to make sure she was okay.” Alec and I said at the same time as Max falls to the ground laughing.

“Oh you two think alike this is not good.” Max said regaining her composure I see Logan shaking his head agreeing with Max.

“Hey great minds think a like.” Alec said smirking wow he is really hot.

“So did Isabel accept?” Maria asked trying to act like she does not care. This time Max was the one to answer.

“Heck yeah she screamed her answer!” Max said chuckling.

“It’s so not fair the three of you can hear conversations across the room and I can’t this is just wrong.” Maria said in mock jealousy.

“Well I'm sure…”I trail off when I am overcome by this feeling of dizziness.

Flash
“It’s not me you have to worry about 452. I am just one man and Manticore is no longer your enemy. It’s the Familiars you have to worry about. They are coming and will not stop until all transgenic, Antrians and Skins are out of their way.” Donald Lydecker says.

“Oh gosh…oh no…please no.” I said falling to the floor trying to catch my breath. Alec rushes over to me along with the others.

“Lizzie what’s wrong?” Zack asked me as he checks me over for any problems.

“I had a… I had a flash.” I said finally catching my breath. It feels like I just ran across the desert.

“What?” Logan asked. Only to be pushed away by Isabel and Maria.

“What did you see?” Isabel asked worried.

“Lydecker in the café he was warning us…oh what was it.” I muttered trying to remember his exact words.

“OH! He said it was not him we had to worry about 452. He was just one man and Manticore is no longer our enemy it’s the Familiars we need to worry about. They are coming and will not stop until all transgenic, Antirans and Skins are out of their way.” I said causing Isabel to real back.

“How did he know what my race and the other alien race are called?” Isabel asked in a whisper.

“I don’t know Isabel” I said.

“Are you sure about what you saw Liz I…” Isabel cut off Logan.

“Her visions have not been wrong before…it just shocked me is all, normally Liz would get the flashes when she was with Max.” Isabel said.

“I could feel his emotions.” I finally said, after all that was the part that freaked me out the most. Feeling one of your worst enemy’s emotions is not something you want to feel.

“Yes but Liz, Lydecker disappeared after we took down Manticore.” Logan said as if trying to prove he was right.

“Logan, Lydecker was part of an elite army branch…he was trained to get out of sticky situations I mean the guy was in charge of Manticore where they bred soldiers and not just any soldiers the perfect solider.” Maria said and I have to say this does surprise me I had no idea she listened to me when I was telling her about Lydecker.

“Don’t give me that look I listen to you Liz…most of the time.” Maria said.

“Maria is right. Lydecker is trained to escape those situations I was dreaming when I thought maybe he really was gone.” Max said as Alec puts a comforting arm around her like an older brother would to comfort his little sister.

“But do we believe him?” Alec asked.

“In his own twisted way he cares about us like a father would his children. I do not think he wants anything bad to happen to us. I think he was telling the truth and that he is worried about us.” I said noticing Alec’s funny look.

“What do you mean he cares about us?” Alec asked.

“Lydecker calls us his kids…he says he was only hard on us so that in a tough situation we could survive, he never wanted us to die.” Max said.

“He would sit with Max and me.” I said causing the others attention to return to me. “Back at Manticore when we had bad seizures he would sit by our beds to make sure we got to sleep okay. In some weird way it was…” Max cuts me off.

“Comforting.” She said with tears in her eyes, it’s hard to admit that the man who tortured you comforted you.

“So this was like a future flash?” Alec asked changing the subject.

“Yeah I have no idea when this will happen.” I tell the others.

“AHH!” I scream I feel like I am going to be sick.

Flash
Tess in the café next to Liz and Ava.
Flash
Eagle rock Military base
Flash
“Hello baby sister.”
Flash
“You think your so clever don’t ya Liz? You thought I would not figure it out that you are with the government? I saw you at the base talking to some guy in fatigues I know you are trying to hand us over to them. Well I WON’T LET YOU!” Max yells charging at Liz.
Flash
Max stabbing Liz in the leg with a pen. “I don’t feel pain moron.” Liz says
Flash
“What are you?” Max asks
Flash
“A war is coming.”

I come out of the flashes and see the others crowded around me in worry.

“Lizzie what’s wrong?” Zack asked.

“A war is coming.” I muttered before I saw black.

Part 14

Liz POV

Tess and Ava, the base, who was it that called me baby sister? Max attacking me, getting stabbed and not feeling any pain, what am I? What war? These thoughts have been swimming around my head I can not escape the darkness its all around me. I can hear muffled voices in the background but I cannot make out what they are saying.

“Liz?” I hear someone ask as I see a hazy light. Opening my eyes I see the worried faces of my friends and family.

“OH my head.” I grumbled as the others check me over.

“She just passed out, but from what?” Alec asked me his hazel eyes look worried.

“Flashes…a lot of them.” I said trying to push aside the mounting fear.

“What did you see?” Isabel asked me.

“It was so weird I saw Tess and Ava…” Maria cuts me off.

“TESS!” Maria screeched her green eyes wild with anger.

“Yes Tess and Ava in the café they were standing next to me, then I saw eagle rock military base and it was active. I heard and saw some guy call me baby sister it was weird he was in a suite and looked older. Then I saw Max attacking me and he said something before like about him knowing I work for the government and that he won’t let me take him. Then I saw Max stabbing me in the leg with a pen only I felt no pain and I even told him that. Max asked what I was and then I heard a war is coming but I did not recognize the voice.” I said.

“Tess was standing by you? Did you and Ava have her in a vice grip?” Isabel asked her eyes were so cold she reminded me of a Manticore solider.

“No we were standing there talking not fighting it was almost like…almost like we were friends.” I said causing Maria to go bug eyed.

“No pain.” Max said causing all of us to look at her in question. “That sounds oddly familiar.” Max said receiving a nod from Alec and Zack.

“What did the guy look like the one who called you baby sister?” Alec asked.

“He looked like he was in his mid thirties. He was moderate height around Zack’s size; he looked muscular, dark brown hair, chocolate eyes, and a light olive skin tone. He was in a suite and he looked familiar like I have seen him before.” I said trying to describe him. We are all quiet for a second trying to picture him.

“Does not ring a bell.” Max finally said as the others nod in agreement.

“Well we will let you get some rest. Let’s think about this for a while maybe Max and Nicholas will shed some light on this.” Zack said as everyone gets up and ready to leave my room.

“I don’t need sleep shark DNA.” I said starting to get up, but Alec pins me down.

“Oh no you just went through something that used up a lot of energy. You need to rest doctor’s orders.” Alec said.

“You are not a doctor.” Logan said causing Max to elbow him.

“Yeah well I had more medical training then anyone else here.” Alec said challenging Logan and Logan seeing the look in Alec’s eyes knew not to question him.

“Oh all right.” I grumbled as they all leave my room I am kind of sleepy.

Max POV

“So you are going to the prom with Isabel.” Alec said to Zack who is looking at Isabel on the couch next to Maria watching TV.

“Yes how did you know…you listened in.” Zack said and surprisingly he is not mad.

“Yeah the three of us did we were curious.” I said.

“I can see and yes I did ask her and she said yes!” Zack said smiling.

“Great now all we need is Alec here to ask Liz.” I said wiping the smirks off Zack and Alec’s faces.

“What?” Zack asked.

“Oh come on I have seen the way Alec looks at her he likes her and I think he should ask her.” I said.

“Really?” Alec asked sounding hopeful causing Zack to growl.

“That’s my little sister Alec.” Zack said.

“Yes and mine as well and I think he should go for it.” I said looking at Zack daring him to challenge me, and surprisingly he does.

“No Alec is too… Liz is too young for Alec and to innocent.” Zack said all flustered.

“Zack you are older then Alec and Isabel is the same age as Liz we could say you are too old for her.” I said seeing something spark in his eyes.

“Hey I am not that old.” Alec snapped disgruntled.

“For Lizzie you are.” Zack said.

“Zack how old are you?” I asked with a smirk.

“29” He said quietly.

“How old is Isabel?” I asked.

“18” he replied.

“And that does not count as too young for her. I can just see her parents now oh Isabel who is this young man? Oh mom he is my 29 year old boyfriend.” I mimicked Isabel.

“Hey back to me and Liz here!” Alec said.

“Right Zack Alec is 26 only 9 years older then Liz where as you are 11 years older then Isabel.” I said causing Alec to smirk.

“Besides Alec acts like a five year old that has to take away some of the age difference.” I say wiping the smirk off his face, which is replaced by a scowl.

“I do not act like a five year old.” Alec says pouting.

“That’s not what I meant, Alec is too…experienced.” Zack finally said causing me to bust out laughing.

“Like you aren’t!” I said.

“Hey!” Zack said.

“I’m sure Liz is experienced.” Alec said appearing to deliberate what he said.

“NO!” Zack growled seething. “She is innocent still.” Zack said slightly uncomfortable talking about his little sister like this.

“Oh.” Is all Alec said.

“Wait how does she get around the heat?” Alec asked causing me to redden.

“She stays at my house with me in the basement.” Maria said from the couch. The four of us turn to see the TV off and Maria and Isabel watching our exchange.

“There are nail marks and holes in the wall to prove it.” Maria said.

“Wait why would she stay at your place?” Logan asked.

“Because there are no males in the house…or there weren’t until my cousin moved in, but he was never around when she went into heat thank god!” Maria muttered.

“Okay well this is awkward.” Alec said trying to lighten the atmosphere.

“Listen none of that matters we all know you are wild about Liz and she is interested in you so Isabel and I say go for it!” Maria said.

“NO I will not consent to my baby sister being contaminated by playboy over here!” Zack said angry tears in his eyes.

“Whoa calm down I am not going to “Contaminate” Liz. Do you really think I am that bad?” Alec asked looking semi hurt.

“Alec how many times have you tried to get with Max?” Zack asked.

“At least a hundred.” I let slip-causing Logan to turn to Alec.

“What?!” Logan yelled.

“Hey I was just teasing all those times.” Alec said.

“I know.” I respond causing all heads to whip my way.

“Oh please Alec thinks of me more as a friend then anything.” I said receiving a nod from him. The next thing I know Alec is on the floor arms wrapped around Zack’s Legs begging.

“Oh please let me ask Liz to the prom please?” Alec asked looking like a kid begging his parent for a toy they really want.

“Ok fine, but if you try anything I will hog tie you and dangle you off the space needle.” Zack said causing Alec to shudder; Alec does not do so well with heights.

“Agreed.” Alec said getting up off the floor smiling.

Part 15

Max POV

Even after Alec agreed to treat Liz well Zack still wore a scowl on his sweet face. “Can you believe those two?” Logan asked me looking at the others who are sitting on the couch.

“What?” I asked unsure of what he is talking about.

“Alec and Zack can you believe that they are more worried about Liz’s virtue that they forget that we have a Lydecker issue to deal with.” Logan said not noticing the glare I sent his way. Liz and her happiness are more important then worrying about the future and Lydecker.

“Zack was just worried that Alec would harm Liz. After all Liz is the youngest of all of us we look out for her and she is the only one who is still so…innocent. She is the only one who had a semi normal life and we want to make sure that nothing happens to it.” I said.

“Are you forgetting that she dated and alien from the 47 crash?!” Logan yelled.

“That was not her fault she was shot and besides she is not running like the rest of us.” I said in an angry whisper.

“You are not running.” Logan pointed out.

“Yes I am! I will never be able to have a normal childhood. I am always looking over my shoulder because I know I have to look out for myself because in the end I am the one that has to have my back because Zack and the others will not always be there. Liz does not have to worry about that for which I am thankful; she will always have someone there for her!” I yelled angry tears ready to spill.

“I will always have your back Max.” Logan said.

“No you won’t,” I said getting up and walking away from him I need to get away and think.

“I will be back.” I said not noticing that someone else had followed me out the door.

“You are wrong.” Liz said causing me to swivel around and face her.

“I thought you were asleep.” I said.

“I was but I got this weird feeling like you needed me so I woke up.” Liz said coming closer and pulling my sleeve indicating I should follow.

“I just don’t know Liz.” I said as we enter the back ally of the Crashdown.

“Yes you do but you refuse to see it.” She said cryptically.

“What do you mean?” I asked as she turned to look at me.

“You know Logan is true to you and that no matter what he will stand by you…he has your back…I have your back.” Liz said.

“I know you do its just...” Liz cuts me off before I can continue.

“Wrong again Maxie. No more hiding you know I am here for you I do not care what Zack says anymore if you ever need me just tell me!” Liz yelled.

“Liz…” I am cut off again.

“She is right Max.” Zack said as he and Alec come out of the shadows.

“We are always here for you.” Alec said as the two of them come stand by Liz and me.

“We have each other and our friends they will always come to our aid even when we least expect it.” Liz said causing the three of us to shoot her a questioning look.

“Do you remember when I was looking for Alex’s killer?” Liz asked us as we all nod our heads.

“Well no one would help me they all thought I was crazy. Then when I was ready to give up Michael stone wall Guerin shows up to help me.” Liz said causing us to crack a smile knowing Michael’s ways.

“Max you will always have us, your friends and Logan.” Zack said to me causing tears to well up in my eyes.

“So what were you and Logan fighting about?” Alec asked breaking the uncomfortable atmosphere.

“Uh you would not believe it!” I yelled infuriated.

“What?” Liz asked me well I cannot really say because it might upset Alec.

“Oh it was about the conversation Alec and Zack were having earlier.” I said giving the two males a meaningful look.

“Oh!” Alec said blushing causing Zack to laugh.

“So he was a little peeved that I like Liz.” Alec said a pleased look on his face. It is no secret that Alec likes to push Logan’s buttons.

“Wait…What?” Liz asked confused looking at Alec and the look on his face was priceless…I think he forgot that she was there!

“Ah…well…you see.” Alec stumbled trying to find the right words.

“Oh come on I have seen you pick up girls you never have this trouble.” I said.

“Yeah but the girl usually can’t kill me if I look at her wrong and they usually do not have their very over protective older brothers standing right next to them.” Alec said suddenly realizing what he just said he whipped around to face a slack jawed Liz.

“Ok well that takes care of the how to tell her I like her part.” Alec awkwardly scratched the back of his head.

“Wow!” Liz said with a wide-eyed look.

“Liz?” Zack asked his sister.

“Hey I would have to be stupid not to admit I find Alec irresistible.” Liz said causing Alec and Zack to sputter but for completely different reasons.

“No way! You actually like him? I was hoping you would turn him down! Ok Alec I take back all I said before there is no way you are dating my sister.” Zack roared.

“What?!” Alec yelled.

“Who said anything about dating all I want is pretty boy here in my bed…” I cut Liz off by putting my hand over her mouth. Alec looks uneasy and Zack looks murderous.

“WHAT?!” Zack yelled as I take away my hand from Liz’s mouth.

“Gotch ya!” Liz said snickering at the looks on our faces.

“What you really thought I would do something like that?” Liz asked laughing at the idea.

“Hey a guy can dream.” Alec said as a panicked look crossed his face again realizing he had stuck his foot in his mouth yet again.

“Well since it would be pointless to keep the other two in suspense any longer I am just going to come out and say it Alec will you be my date for the prom?” Liz asked.

“Heck yeah…I mean yes I will gladly be your date for the prom.” Alec said.

“Great! Well you are staying with me so be ready by the time Zack leaves to pick up Isabel.” Liz said.

“Great.” Alec said with his trademark smirk.

“Well I must head back in and tell the girls about this they will be ecstatic!” Liz said as she skipped back into the crashdown.

“You hurt her I will permanently hang you off the statue of liberty.” I said patting Alec on the head and followed Liz back into the crashdown. Upon entering the Parker’s apartment I am ambushed by Liz, Maria and Isabel.

“Come on Maxie we have work to do.” Maria said as the three girls drag me into Liz’s room. Isabel used her powers and sealed the door shut and then zaps the wall, she must have seen my confusion because she explained to me what she was doing.

“So no one not even a super being can hear or get in here.”

“Okay ladies its time to put our next phase of torture into play…Isabel tell the lovely ladies what that might be.” Maria said sounding like one of TV game show hosts.

“Well Maria its dream torture.” Isabel said with an evil smile and a wicked look in her eyes. Why do I have the feeling that I might have permanent mental scars from this?


Part 16

Liz POV

Why do I get the feeling that this is going to leave Max unable to sleep for the rest of his life? What am I saying this is a good thing!
“Great what’s the plan?” I asked with a growl.

“Well I was thinking of letting Max get an eye full of you and Alec to you know reinforce that you have moved on with a cutie. Then we just mess with his head a little, I was thinking about doing this whole me and Zack thing but that is still up in the air.” Isabel said smiling.

“I like it I think Max will definitely never sleep again once he sees his sister with some guy.” Max said.

“Hum this could get ugly…I like it.” I said as Isabel pulled out a worn picture of her brother, Michael and her.

“Great I will take the three of you with me into the dream, but I will draw power out of Liz and Max because it is going to take more then I have.” Isabel said as we all lay on the floor holding hands while Isabel instructed us through things.

“Let your minds blank out and focus on matching your breathing to mine.” Isabel said. In a matter of moments we are taken into Max’s dream.

We are in the café all of us are sitting in a booth. “Liz I am so happy you came to your senses and got back with Max the love of your life.” Dream Maria says to dream Liz who is snuggled close to Max.

“Yes so am I, I was so stupid to think I could be with anyone other then Max.” Dream Liz says kissing Max.

~”Can you believe this?”~ I ask the other three.

~”I think its time we had a little fun.”~ Maxie says as Isabel closes her eyes in concentration changing the scene to nighttime in the café.

“So Liz do you want to…” The ringing of the bell above the door cuts off Max.

“It’s closed.” Dream Max says turning to tell off who ever had come in. Alec was leaning against the counter looking perfect. Max seeing who it was took a step back.

“Actually since I live here I think its open for me…right baby?” Dream Alec asks dream Liz.

“Yes. Hey listen Alec why don’t you go up to my room I will be up in a minute I just have to get rid...I mean see Max out.” Dream Liz says.

“Sure I will start a bath for us.” Dream Alec says as he struts away.

“Liz what’s going on?” Dream Max asks.

“What you honestly did not think I was going to see you exclusively did you?” Dream Liz asks laughing.

“No you see Alec is so much better in bed then you ever could be so I have him for that and you for…well nothing its over Max.” Dream Liz says.

“What?!” Dream Max yells.

“Oh please do you honestly think I would want to touch you with a ten foot pole after what you did to me?” Dream Liz asks as the scene changes yet again to Max sitting out side Liz’s window looking in. Dream Liz and Alec exit the bathroom all wet and wrapped in towels.

“So do you think the lousier finally gets that you need a real man and not some high school boy?” Dream Alec asks nibbling dream Liz’s ear.

“Who knows.” Dream Liz says as the scene changes yet again to the Evens house. A grief-stricken Max enters his home only to hear loud thumping noises.

“Mom? Dad?” Dream Max asks.

“In here Max.” Dream Mrs. Evens replies. Mr. Evens and Mr. Evens are both in the living room reading the paper.

“Hey mom, dad what’s that noise?” Dream Max asks.

“Oh Isabel is just breaking in Zack, her new boyfriend.” Mr. Evens says with a chuckle.

“What…” Before Max can answer he is cut off by loud moans coming from upstairs.

“Isabel?!” Max yells running up the stairs and throwing open her door.

“Oh! Max get out get out can you say knock first, get out.” Dream Isabel screeches as dream Zack comes out from under the covers.

“Oh hey you’re the guy that my sister dumped.” Dream Zack says laughing.

“AHHHH!” Dream Max yells covering his ears and closing his eyes.

“Done!” Isabel said as the four start to move.

“Isabel I have to say that was the best dream walk ever.” Maria said.

“Even better then when she went into yours?” I asked.

“Yes! Do you know how terrified I was when she did?” Maria asked.

“Enough so that everything worked out and you did not blab our secret to the sheriff.” Isabel said.

“Yes but I was afraid to go to sleep for a month after that.” Maria said making the rest of us laugh.

Part 17
Alec POV

Bright light much too bright and something warm on either side of me, I hear giggling. “OMG that is so cute!” I hear a girl as the warm things next to me or more like on me move.

“Max um Max.” one of the warm things on me moans causing my eyes to snap open. Curled on my chest are Zack and Logan and the bizarre part is I have an arm around each of them.

“What the!” I yelled causing the two guys to start awake.

“Tell me why is it that the first thing I see when I wake up is Logan?” Zack asked bemused.

“Well you see you both are cuddled up to me and I would love it if you got off me now.” I said rather irritated at the current situation; as Logan and Zack dart off me.

“Sorry.” Zack said laughing at the humorous situation.

“You should have seen it, it was so sweet.” Max said laughing causing the other three girls to giggle.

“Come on guy’s time to open the café!” Liz said causing Maria to groan.

“Why is it that your parents insist on opening so early?” Maria asked.

“Something about morning rush.” Liz said.

“So why did you get us up if you have to open the café?” Logan asked receiving evil smiles from the girls.

“Because you are going to help me, and Max will show up he has this habit of eating at the café everyday.” Liz said.

“You would too if you ate my mothers cooking.” Isabel said shuddering.

“That bad?” Max asked.

“Yeah she always tries these new recipes she finds in magazines on us they always end badly.” Isabel said with a tart look on her face.

“Well if Max might show up you know I will help.” Hey it could be fun to make another guy jealous after all who would not be jealous of me.

“Yeah I don’t like the idea of Max anywhere near Liz or any of us for that mater…not that Isabel can help that he is her brother.” Zack said as Maria comes out of Liz’s bathroom with her hair all wet.

“Okay next person hop in.” Maria said as everyone looks to me.

“Guess it’s my turn.” I mumbled grabbing a fresh set of clothes and heading into the steamy room.

Liz POV

Thinking about Alec in the shower I have to say the images it brings up are pleasant. Isabel, Max and I already showered before we woke up the three guys.

“Come on people get down to the café.” I said dreading the day to come. Seeing as how the folks are gone Maria, Michael and I have to run the café…at least the two of them have shifts I have to do this all day.

“Okay Zack and Logan get the chairs, Max the sign, Maria coffee, and I will start up the grill.” I gave out the orders on who has to do what.

“So how busy is the café in the morning?” Logan asked.

“On weekends busy, but its only bad at lunch and dinner.” I said.

“Okay I know this has really bad timing, but when do you think this thing with that Lydecker guy will happen?” Maria asked.

“You know as well as I do Maria it could happen any time.” I said.

“So it could happen today?” Logan looked fearful.

“Yes.” I said causing Zack’s look to darken.

“Then we better be on the look out…not only for Lydecker, but for Max and Nicholas as well we can not let out guards down.” Zack always the CO.

“You know I never noticed this but Zack and Michael are a lot alike.” Maria said and I shake my head yes. She is right they both have this closed off persona and are warriors at heart and feel like they have to protect the others.

“Okay its official I am moving in.” Alec purred coming out of the back room a broad smile on his face.

“Why is that?” I asked.

“You have the best shower.” Alec said as if it is the most obvious thing.

“What’s that smell?” Zack asked Alec with a raised eyebrow.
“What?” Logan asked confused as to why Zack, Max and I have funny looks on our faces.

“I used Liz’s strawberry body wash!” Alec blurted out making me laugh.

“Why?” Maria asked.

“Because…” Max trailed off she is holding her side form laughing.

“It will make Max jealous.” I explained.

“Why?” Maria asked again.

“Max always says Liz smells like strawberries it’s like her trade mark sent to him.” Isabel said.

“And if he smells her “sent” on me it will cause him to see red or at least to start questioning things.” Alec said.

“How do you now it will work?” Logan asked.

“It’s an animal thing. When one male smells its mates sent on another they tend to louse it.” Zack said.

“How did you come up with this?” I asked trying to stop my ecstatic smile
.
“Well it was Max here actually.” Alec said putting his arm around Max who laughs; I quickly glance to the side and see Logan’s angry expression that is quickly replaced with a blank look.

“Really how so?” Zack asked.

“Well earlier Max just happened to hint at the fact that Evens is obsessed with Liz’s hair and how he thinks she smells like strawberries so it got me thinking that even though his sense of smell is not as strong as ours I think he will be able to tell that Liz’s trade mark sent is all over me.” Alec said smirking.

“Speaking of, here come dumb and dumber now.” Isabel said looking out the front door at Max and Michael getting out of the Jeep.

“Let the games begin.” Alec said with a wicked gaze as he quickly retreats into the backroom.

“All I’m saying Maxwell is that maybe you were just freaked out over the whole thing earlier and it just played out in your dreams.” Michael sounded frustrated.

“What played out in your dreams?” Isabel asked in a bored voice.

“Nothing.” Max said blushing furiously looking everywhere except at Isabel.

“Hey Liz.” Max said to me not seeing Zack standing behind him.

“Hey Max.” Zack said in fake cheerfulness.


“Ah, hi.” Max said looking confused.

“So Liz listen…” The break room door swinging open cuts off Max.

“Hey Liz have you seen my blue and white boxers?” Alec asked scratching the back of his head; his face scrunched in concentration.

“No did you check the bathroom?” I asked playing along.

“Yeah and around your room, but I can not find them.” Alec said. “Oh well they will turn up eventually.” He walked over to me with the ease of a cat and wrapped his arms around me.

“Ah. Hi.” Max said a strange look on his face.

“Hey.” Alec said blowing Max off when he turns and whispers in my ear.

“So looks like its working…go into the back room I am going to try and get him to realize that even when you are gone your sent is still on me.” Alec whispered into my left ear.

Giggling I reply, “Sure just don’t be too long.” I said pretending to pout as I walk backwards a few steps before turning and heading into the back room.

“So you are staying here?” I heard Max ask thanks to my enhanced hearing.

“Yeah all of us are.” Alec said and I see him lean against the counter from the break room door’s window.

“Oh.” Max said his voice shaky.

“So are you another one of Liz’s brothers?” Max asked.

“No Zack and Max are her only other siblings here right now her other five sisters are not here as well as her six brothers.” Alec said emphasizing the six brother’s part causing Max to visibly cringe.

“So are you a friend of her brothers?” Max asked.

“Yeah and I am great friends with her sisters as well through them I met Liz and we just kind of hit off.” Alec said leaving things to Max’s imagination.

“Oh really that’s ah that’s great. Where did you meet Liz’s brother and sister?” Max asked causing Zack and Maxie to whip towards the two talking at the counter…surprisingly Alec looks calm like he was expecting the question.

“I met them at Military school.” Alec said.

Part 18

Liz’s POV

“I met them at Military school.” Alec said causing my mouth to fall open the look on Max’s face is priceless I whish I had my camera to capture the look of utter horror on Max’s face. I look towards the other end of the counter to where Maxie, Maria, Michael, and Logan are they all are trying desperately to not laugh.

“Oh really.” Max said looking everywhere but at Alec.

“Yeah we all sort of hit it off being in the same situation and all and for being there for the same reasons.” Alec said.

“That’s nice.” Max said scratching behind his ear.

“Yeah we all agreed that our parents were wrong in sending us there its like who cares if you get into a few fights and who cares if you put the one guy in a coma its not like you killed him the cops got there before I had the chance.” Alec said and Max backed up a little.

“Yeah isn’t that a shame.” Max said trying to laugh, but it came out as a squeak.

“Yeah I know it’s like whom cares if the guys face almost caved in.” Zack said jumping in.

“Oh I know and its like come on the buildings frame was still standing at least only two blocks burnt down.” Maxie said causing Max’s eyes to go wide and Michael to choke on the orange juice he was drinking. I have to cover my mouth with my hand to stop myself from laughing at Max’s terrified look.

“So ah…ah like how long where you three at Military school?” Max asked.

“I was there for the longest about ten years the other two were there for six.” Alec said.

“Why were you there?” Michael asked from the other end of the counter.

“I had put a guy in a coma when I was eight.” Alec said.

“I burnt down several blocks in the warehouse district back home when I was ten.” Maxi said.

“I destroyed a guy’s face and pulverized another when I was eight.” Zack said. “Since we were so young they thought it best to send us to Military school.”

“So when did you all get out?” Michael asked.

“About five years ago. Then while we were there we were allowed to go home and visit. Zack came here the most though.” Maxie said.

“Well if you will excuse me I should go help Liz look for my boxers.” Alec said as he heads my way.

“Yeah I can see a whole lot of work getting done there.” Logan said causing Alec to turn slightly and wiggle his eyebrows; Max looks like he is going to be sick.

“I think that went well.” Alec said once the door to the back room stopped swinging.

“That was great his face was just…” I trailed off not being able to find the right words to describe it.

“Come on let’s go up to the apartment and hang out for a while lets let Max’s imagination get the better of him.” Alec said as he grabbed my hand and led me up the stairs.

Maria POV

Alec just went into the back room and after the little performance the group pulled off Max looks like he is going to be sick. “So ah…are they ah…dating?” Max asked the inevitable question we have all been waiting for.

“Yeah they just started, but I can already tell its going to last they really like each other and have this energy about them.” I said.

“Oh” Max said.

“Well if you will excuse us Maxie, Logan and I have some stuff to do.” Zack said hinting for the other two to follow.

“See ya later guys.” I said as Isabel waved at the three retreating figures.

“So who are they and can they be trusted?” Michael fired at me the moment the front door closed.

“What?” I asked and from Isabel’s face my voice came out harsher then I intended.

“You heard me Blondie can they be trusted? How do you know they are not going to go run off and tell the FBI something?” Michael asked putting on his infamous tough guy act to fool Max, Michael had already been filled in by me who the new people are.

“Okay first off that's Liz’s brother and sister you are talking about and secondly why would they tell the FBI anything?” I asked putting my hands on my hips.

“What happens if they see something they are not supposed to or someone lets something slip how to we know they are not going to running and tell everyone and get us all killed?” Michael growled.

“Hey in case you forgot they don’t like the government very much and they sure won’t tattle on you.” I said sarcastically I hate it when he thinks the world revolves around him and their secret, but I know we are just acting.
“Listen I have known Zack for a really long time I have told stuff to that guy that I would not dream of telling anyone else, and who do you think taught Liz to be open minded and compassionate? Her sister Max.” I said getting fed up with Michael, or well that is what we wanted Max to think.

“They already know.” Max said speaking up.

“WHAT?!” Michael yelled causing me to wince.

“It sort of slipped my mind before, but I remember Zack saying something about Tess killing Alex when he was using my face as a punching bag and how he was Alex’s friend as well. He also said something about leaving Liz standing there and some other stuff.” Max said.

“Max is right they know.” Isabel said speaking up causing me to smile.

“What are you talking about Isabel how would you know?” Michael asked.

“Well incase you have forgotten Michael I am friends with Liz and she told me everything. Oh and don’t worry Liz did not tell them they found out on their own you see they are all very protective of Liz, all of them, and I mean all of them have been watching us for a while.” Isabel said.

“Yeah and the fact that when Zack read the paper he read about the shooting and came to check on Liz and he did some digging and was watching Max.” I said causing Max to go even paler.

“They have been watching us?” Max asked in a whisper.

“Yes.” Liz said as I turn to see her and Alec in front of the break room door.
*******
What the group did not see was the black van pulling up to the curb followed by three black cars. It was soon time to execute the plan…none of them would see it coming.

Part 19

Guest POV

It hurts so badly the pressure in the compartment is building I know I am getting closer only a few more seconds. I hear a loud whistling noise outside and everything is beginning to shake I know its coming now. Who would have thought I would be going back, certainly not me, but here I am I just hope the others get to me before the enemy does. Something is not right the landing is supposed to be smoother…what is going on? Those are my last thoughts when I hear a tremendous explosion as I am ripped from the ship. I feel the pain rip through my body as the fire erupts around me. Welcome back to Roswell Tess.

Liz POV

“Yes.” I said I mean what’s the point in lying?

“How could you?” Max yelled finally losing his cool.

“How could you not tell us that we were being watched you had no right.” He yelled taking a step towards me, which was a dangerous thing to do. Alec stepped in front of me, his stance protective and overpowering. Max stupidly does not back down.

“She did not tell you because she did not want to…we did not want her to.” Alec said.

“What do you mean we?” Michael asked.

“Exactly what I said Michael I mean we; there are quit a few of us watching you when you take into account how many brothers and sisters Liz has.” Alec said.

“Michael they promised they would not say anything and if there is one thing you can take to heart it’s a promise from them because they do not make them unless they can keep them. Michael you know me would I do anything to put you in danger?” I asked seeing Michael’s mask drop for a second into understanding. He knew he could trust me and he knew this was all an act, but at the same time this was making him feel better about others knowing his secret.

“Oh don’t feed us that.” Max snarled causing me to whip around and face him again.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” I challenged him the adrenalin pumping through my veins I hate to be challenged on the sincerity of my words. Max must sense my fury because he takes a step back.

“Has Liz ever done anything but help us?” Isabel asked her voice shaky.

“Okay yeah I will admit it at first I was not happy about Liz knowing our secret, but now I don’t know what my life would be like with out her I mean I got a lot of good friends out of her knowing our secret.” Isabel said.

“Isabel’s right man Liz is like one of my best friends I need her in my life she…keeps me balanced.” Michael said carefully picking his words so that Max gets the picture. It was not too long ago that Max broke up with me because he needed to find his balance he said I left him unbalanced.

“Wait since when are you friends with Liz?” Max asked.

“He knows a lot more about me then most do.” I said folding my arms across my chest.

“What?’ Maria asked.

“Contrary to popular belief Liz and I do talk.” Michael said.

“So what makes you think you know her better then me?” Max asked.

“Well maybe because I read her diary.” Michael said.

“You what?!” Maria screeched at Michael her eyes blazing with fury.

“It was a long time ago; I needed to know if she could be trusted and after reading it I understood Liz a little better. Of course she was angry when she found out I had read it, but she understood about everything. When I read her journal I got to look inside Liz’s head and what I saw was enough to know she would never betray us and that she really is a true friend.” Michael said causing tears to well up in my eyes. I look around at the others and see tears in Maria and Isabel’s eyes as well.

“Wow Michael that has to be the sweetest thing you have ever said.” Maria said hugging Michael who hugged her back.

“Why did you not tell me it was Michael who had your journal?” Max asked me his expression hard to read.

“Simple because Michael asked me not to and I knew that if I did tell you then you would go off on him and I did not want that.” I said causing Michael to smile.

“Still how do I know they won’t tell?” Max asked.

“Well you don’t know for sure if we will or not because lets face it you don’t trust us so you will not believe us when we say we will not tell.” Logan said as the three of then came into the café.

“You are right I will never trust you.” Max said his voice dripping with detest as he heads for the door.

“Just tell me one thing.” Max said turning back to face us. “Why is that you all are so quick to jump to Liz’s defense after all she was the one who wronged in the first place.” Max said looking me in the eye.

“Answer me this Max why is it that no one wants to come to yours?” I asked. Max takes another long look at everyone before he turns and heads out the door.

“Well that went well.” I said getting a few chuckles.

“Okay I think I have earned this Liz.” Michael said causing all of us to face Michael.

“What?” I asked.

“The truth.” Michael said. “I want the whole truth and not Maria’s edited version.”

Part 20

Liz POV

“The truth.” Michael said. “I want the whole truth and not Maria’s edited version.”

“About?” I asked already knowing what he wants to know.

“I want to know what is really going on…I want to know it all.” Michael said sitting down on one of the nearby chairs.

“All of it? Okay let’s see where to begin?” I asked looking at the others.

“I will start.” Zack said.

“We are part of an experiment, the government wanted more security so they created us; that Military school we were talking about is called Manticore. We are genetically engineered super soldiers, we were bred to hunt and kill. They crossed, human DNA, with animal DNA to come up with the perfect combination. They tried different combinations each combo was a series. The first series was a complete failure most of them were killed, but Manticore kept a few to study. Next came the X2’s and X3’s they faced a similar fate as the X1’s except more of their kind were kept. Next came the X4’s they were a successful series except none of them look human they all look like animals in a human form and have many of the animal instincts making some very dangerous; they were the first success, well kind of. There are also anomilies or nomilies as we call them, they are people that look like animals and have all the animals’ traits.” Zack said looking at Michael his eyes are wide.

“Next came our series.” Max said taking over.

“We are X5’s we all look human, and are for the most part, we just have super human reflexes, hearing, sight, strength, and speed. The dilemma is our series has a few problems as well.” Max said blushing and I can fell my face heating up as well.

“I guess I better take over here.” Alec said and Max and I quickly agreed.

“Most of our series has a chemical imbalance in the brain we all get seizures because of it. Also since our series is combined with cat DNA the females go into heat every so often and since us males have cat in us we react to them.” Alec said and if at all possible my face reddens more.

“Wait heat what’s that?” Michael asked.

“Its when we get all antsy and try and mate with any male we smell close by, which is why Manticore had a problem.” I said.

“The X5’s were created to be independent and to give the orders not take them, that is where Manticore really screwed up.” Alec said.

“My unit escaped, some made it some did not, we were like family hence the brother and sister. Once we were out we all split up I was the only one who knew where they were I kept an eye on everyone.” Zack said.

“I did not escape.” Alec said.

“I was not in their unit so I was at Manticore a lot longer then they were.” Alec said.

“Once on the outside I was walking around looking for a place to hide when I ran into Nancy and Jeff Parker in Wyoming they were there visiting Grandma. They saw me on the side of the road and took me in. They decided then after they picked me up that they should move to Roswell so we did and then I became Elisabeth Parker.” I said.

“Wow.” Michael said trying to absorb all that we had just told him.

“So like all those times we were rude to you, you could have killed us with your little finger?” Michael asked.

“Yeah and I was tempted to just throw you all around a little but Maria and Alex would talk me out of it.” I said.

“So if you are not brothers and sister why is it that Max here looks a lot like you?” Michael asked.

“Well because she is my sister. Max, Zane, Krit and I are all biological siblings. Just like Ben, Zack, Sly and Eve are biological siblings.” I said.

“Okay sorry this is just a lot to take in I thinks for the first time I understand how Maria felt finding out that we were aliens.” Michael said a shocked expression on his face. “You know I always knew the government was sick it’s just now I know how sick they are. Right now they make the skins look like angels.” Michael said.

“Guys I think we should tell Michael the rest…you know the alien part of all of this.” Isabel said.

“Wait what?’ Michael asked his expression darkening.

“I will go call Kyle.” Maria said getting up and heading to the phone.

“Michael I think it would be best if Kyle helped with this and I know this is going to come as a shock because it did to us, but you have to promise to let us speak and get this all out before you go off and do anything.” I said in a rush.

“Okay, but do I have a reason to worry?” He asked us.

“Yes.” I said.

“Yes Michael 513 is right all of you have to worry.” All of us turn to see Donald Lydecker in front of the Crashdown front door soldiers flanking his sides. It looks like my vision is about to come true. When I see the cold gazes of the soldiers my heart jumps into my throat, my vision was coming true.

Part 21

Liz POV

“Well if it isn’t our old friend Deck.” Alec said sarcastically.

“Hello 494. I am not here as the head of Manticore I am here as a person who does not want their kids to get killed.” Lydecker said. I could tell that Alec wanted to roll his eyes at the comment but he refrained from doing so.

“Yeah and why do I not want to believe that?” Max said sarcastically her arms folded across her chest in defiance.

“It’s not me you have to worry about 452. I am just one man and Manticore is no longer your enemy. It’s the Familiars you have to worry about. They are coming and will not stop until all transgenic, Antrians and Skins are out of their way.” Donald Lydecker said exactly what he said in my vision.

“Who are the familiars?” I asked.

“I am glad to see that your passion for knowledge has not changed 513.” Lydecker said causing me to cringe on the inside…I know better then to show weakness.

“Just answer the question Lydecker.” Logan said the old military man just rolled his eyes at Logan.

“They are the first. They are a group of advanced humans who bread to form a superior race they have been around since the begging of time, we can trace them back all the way to ancient Egypt, they were the first genetically superior beings.” Lydecker said.

“Wait so there is more like us out there?” Max asked.

“No they were not crossed with animals they were born like this and bread so that more of their kind will come about. They are very different from a transgenic they are not fond of humans, in fact they bread so that they can one day wipe out all humans with a disease and all that will be left is their race.” Lydecker said.

“Wait but I thought transgenics were immune to diseases and pathogens?” Logan asked.

“Yes and so are the Antrians and Skins, which is why the familiars want them gone.” Lydecker said.

“Okay so why do they not like humans?” Maria asked.

“Well they think humans are weak and a nuisance. You see they did not know about transgenics until about a year ago. When they found out they went and started to cook up something to get ride of all of you. The interesting part is that the creator of transgenics is in fact a familiar.” Lydecker said.

“So why would a familiar create a race that could do the same things as his race?” Isabel asked.

“Because he did not like what the cult was up to.” I said causing everyone to look at me.

“What?’ Michael asked.

“Think about why else would this guy go against his people?” I asked making Lydecker smirk.

“Yeah I mean if your entire race hates humans why would you create something that protects them?” Alec asked.

“Listen I know that none of you are fond of me, but I need your help…the world needs your help. The familiars are a very nasty race they look human, but they are not. They have powers that can exceed that of any alien, you all are the only ones who stand a chance.” Lydecker said.

“So let me catch up here. You want us to help you get rid of these familiars thus saving the world?” Zack asked.

“Yes.” Lydecker said.

“Let us think about it.” I said not wanting to make this decision with out thinking it through.

“All right. If you want to get in contact with me you can find me at eagle rock military base. Leave the guards with your barcode and they will let you in.” Lydecker said motioning for the soldiers to follow.

“Eagle Rock?” Isabel asked quietly a look of fear on her face after Lydecker's departure.

“Oh no.” Maria said.

“Well it looks like on way or another all of us are going back to the one place we never wanted to see again.” I said dread washing over me.

“And where is that?” Logan asked.

“The white room.” Michael said in a whisper.

Part 22

Guest POV

“You are now in charge of the division; I know you will do well.” An older gentleman in a black suit said.

“Thank you sir I am honored to be in charge of the project.” The younger gentleman said putting on his most charming smile.

“You will do well with this unit I know you will do better then the last crack pot did.” The older gentleman said.

“Thank you sir.” The younger gentleman said as the older gentlemen heads down a different hall leaving the young man standing there.

“So did you get it?” A woman asked from the shadows.

“Yes I am now the head.” The younger gentleman said.

“Good and where are you and your men assigned to?” The woman asked.

“We are to head to Roswell New Mexico.” The young man said.

“Very good brother White. Now that you are in charge of the special unit we can push forth the hunt for the Antrian's and Skins.” The woman said with amusement.

“Yes according to the files that Pierce left there are several in New Mexico.” Ames White said to the high priestess.

“Good the others will be pleased.” The priestess said before disappearing back into the shadows.

“Yeah pleased.” Ames said pulling a picture out of the file. It was a brunette girl with big brown doe eyes and a warm smile.

“You look like I remember baby sister.” Ames said as he tucked the picture into the breast pocket of his suit.
****
Liz POV

“The White room?” Logan asked.

“Oh no you mean…?” Max trailed off in understanding a look of sympathy on her face.

“They used me against him. They knew I was the one person that would make him weak.” I said in a whisper.

“Yes but we got him out before they had a chance to do anything.” Michael said.

“But still after, when we were in the van he would not let me go he kept chanting, “They will not get you, not going to happen, I love you.” Over and over.” I said I still feel bad about that day.

“Who are you talking about?’ Logan asked.

“Max.” I said.

“Wait Max was in this white room?” Logan asked.

“Yes and the white room is our worst fear. It’s where they torture and experiment on us, trying to find new ways of torture, that are more painful then the ones that they currently use.” Isabel said crying remembering her brothers’ torture. We may not be crazy about the guy but we all do love him…like an annoying brother.

“OMG they…they dissected him didn’t they?” Max asked her face contorted in horror.

“Yeah they tried almost every torture they could on him. The one they found most effective was showing him pictures of me dead.” I said trailing off due to the pain building in my head. I stop and bring my hand to my head as the pressure starts to build.

“Hey Liz you okay?” Alec asked sensing something was wrong.

“Yeah, ahhhh.” I screamed the pain has become too intense I think I know why now.

“Liz!” I heard Maria yell and then strong arms surrounding me as my world starts fading.

“Tess.” I said succumbing to the darkness.

Alec POV

“Liz!” I heard Maria yell I see her starting to fall and quickly catch her before she hits the floor. Her eyes are out of focus.

“Tess.” Liz said before she goes unconscious.

“OMG did she just say Tess? What is wrong with her? Why would she say Tess?” Maria fired questions at the group left and right as she started to hyperventilate. Poor girl I take it does that a lot.

“I don’t know she might have had a vision because she grabbed her head they same way she did all those other times.” I said trying to not panic about the fact that the girl I like is lying unconscious in my arms after saying the name of the one girl she probably hates more then Lydecker.

“Isabel is there anyway you could find out what is going on?” Max asked worried about her little sister.

“No if she passed out her mind will most likely be blocking me and I have tried to dream walk Liz before she has mental barriers up, and now that she knows I can dream walk she has even more up.” Isabel said wring her hands with worry. This group really cares about her.

“All we can do is wait until she wakes up.” Zack said sounding as though the thought scared him.

“Come on let’s close up the café and move Liz up to her room.” Maria said calming down.

“Alec lets go.” Michael led me up to Liz’s room.

“Wait how do you know where Liz’s room is?” Maria yelled causing all of us to throw a questioning look at Michael who looked like a deer caught in headlights.

“I…well I have been in Liz’s room before. Remember that thing with Tess.” Michael said as the café front door opens.

“Okay this better be good Parker I am missing my cartoons.” Kyle said coming into the café and taking off his sunglasses.

“What the? What is wrong with Liz? Is she okay?” Kyle asked running up to Liz who I had in my arms.

“She passed out we think form a vision.” I said signaling for Michael to head up stairs.

“Okay Zack start explaining.” I heard Kyle bark as I carried Liz into the back room and up the stairs into the Parker home. Liz’s room is on the top floor so it takes some effort to get her up there, but when I do I place her on the bed.

“So you and Liz?” Michael asked leaning against the windowsill leading to her balcony; arms folded across his chest.

“Yeah, why?” I asked my animal instincts telling me to tread carefully.

“Because I think of Liz like a little sister, and don’t think for second I will hesitate to blast you, turn you into dust, and sprinkle your remains in the pod chamber.” Michael said and from the look in his eyes I know he is serious.

“Could you really do that, kill me?” I asked trying to joke around with him.

“I have done it before in this life and the last. You are a solider well so am I except I am the general who lead the high king’s soldiers into battle. I am Max’s/Zan’s second. I would.” Michael said before leaving Liz’s room.

“Ava no please no come back Rath stop please Lonnie no!” Liz yelled still unconscious as she thrashes back and forth.

“Hey guys get up here.” I yelled knowing that the other transgenics can hear me.

“Alec what is it?” Zack asked as the whole group came running in.

“Its Liz she started yelling something about people named Ava, Rath and Lonnie.” I said as Maria, Kyle, Isabel and Michael paled considerably.

“What’s wrong?” I asked a little freaked out by their looks.

“The Dupes.” Maria said.

Part 23

Maxie POV

“The Dupes?” I asked seeing how pale they are these Dupes must be an enemy.

“They are our clones or duplicates.” Michael said.

“Ava and Tess are the clones of Avnara. Rath and Michael are the clones of Rathnar. Zan and Max are the clones of Zanthar and Vilandra or Lonnie and I are the clones of Vilandra.” Isabel explained as Liz started to thrash even more.

“Please leave her alone she does not know anything. KHIVAR!” Liz yelled as her eyes snapped open her breathing irregular.

“Liz what is it? What did you see?” Zack asked.

“Ava and all of us were in the café when Rath and Lonnie came in with Nicholas. They were talking about how they had to high tail it off earth because the familiars were after them as well. They started asking me about the granolith and where it was when Michael told them it was gone; Rath lost it. He started saying all of this stuff about you being the defectives when Khivar came in out of no where.” Liz had tears streaming down her face.

“He said that the Dupes were the defectives and that they had too much Gandarium in them and that it was blocking their powers and that you all were the good set. Rath got upset and tried to blast Khivar when…when Michael, Isabel, Kyle, Ava, Max and I through up our hands and this blue energy came out turning Lonnie into dust…we missed Rath who through up a shield and fled with Nicholas. Khivar was furious Nicholas had betrayed him and Lonnie was gone.” Liz said now sobbing.

“Then out of no where Nicholas and Rath came flying through the glass. There were six nomiles there all with guns. One with a cigar said that this was from Manticore and he hit the button of Nicholas husk and Michael blasted Rath.” Liz said as Michael, Isabel, Kyle and Maria go over and comfort Liz.

“Well it looks like we are going to confront them even if we did not want to.” Isabel said her voice shaking slightly. This unsettles me since she is usually the one who remains strong but now she looks ill.

“Liz you said Ava, but earlier you said Tess.” Michael pointed out.

“That’s because Tess was there only Khivar put this stunner thing on her so she could not use her powers.” Liz said.

“Wait I thought Tess was off on Antar somewhere with Max’s baby.” I said confused.

“She was but in the vision she was there.” Liz said her brow furrowed.

“So Tess comes back!?” Maria screamed.

“Yeah it looks that way.” Liz said in a monotone voice with a dark look.

“Nomalies? What is a nomilie?” Kyle asked.

“A nomilie is one of Manticore’s creations they look like animals except they also look like humans. Its hard to explain but basically they are just more animal then human and can not be sent out into the public so Manticore kept them around for stuff like desert runs, trench digging and specialty type things.” Alec said.

“They have thransgenic’s that are created to with stand certain climates like Mole the guy with the cigar he is a desert nomalie that has a lot of reptile in him; he loves the heat.” Alec said remembering the demanding nomalie.

“Yeah Mole…” Liz trailed off clutching her head again.

“Liz?” I asked already knowing what was happening.

“Oh no guys we have to get out to the desert quick.” Liz said jumping off her bed.

“What? Why?” I asked.

“Because Tess just crashed in the desert and we have to help her something is wrong.” Liz seemed to be in a blind panic and it was that moment when the world seamed to come to a halt.

Part 24

Liz POV

In the vision something felt terribly off like everything was fading. It took me a moment to realize that it was Tess’s life that was fading away into the darkness we did not have a lot of time. I sensed danger was coming even though I did not see it.

“So tell me why should we go after her?” Maria asked in a bitter voice.

“We have to Maria otherwise anyone could find her and even if she is my enemy the last thing I want is for her to end up in the hands of the special unit.” I said understanding where Maria is coming from.

“Maria, Kyle, Logan can we use your cars?” Zack asked slipping into solider mode.

“Yeah sure.” Logan said handing Zack his keys as Maria handed me hers and Kyle gives his to Michael reluctantly.

“Wait.” Kyle said still clutching his keys. “If you even so much as ding my car Guerin it will be your life.” Kyle said in a very serious tone.

“Don’t worry Valenti if anything happens I can fix it remember alien.” Michael said the last part as if he were talking to a child.

“Very funny.” Kyle did not find that funny.

“Let’s go guys no time like the present.” I said rushing everyone out of the apartment.
****
“So Liz where is Tess? We have been looking around here for over an hour already.” Maria complained.

“Uh no we haven’t it has only been fifteen minutes and besides we are trying to scan the area…I can smell something burning but it seams to be coming from all around.” I said sticking my nose in the air like an animal.

“Look over there.” Zack said pointing to an orangey light in the distance.

“Let’s go.” I said as we all started running towards the light, with each stride it gets bigger.

“Oh my word.” Logan says looking at all the flaming pieces of charred debris everywhere.

“Oh no Tess.” I gasped as Michael and Isabel came over to where Tess lay in a ball under a metal thing that looks like a seat.

“Tess can you hear me?” I asked gingerly removing the blonde girl from the ruble.

“Liz?” Tess whispered, trying to open her eyes.

“Yeah Tess it’s me Isabel, Michael, Kyle, Maria and my…” I trailed off not sure how to explain who they are.

“And her brother, sister, boyfriend and family friend.” Michael said as I shoot him an appreciative smile.

“It hurts.” She wheezed still trying to open her eyes.

“Tess open your eyes please.” I tell her.

“Liz what are you going to do Max is the only one of us who can heal.” Isabel whispered.

“No you all can heal minor things so I am going to pool all of our energy and try and heal her. She does not have enough time to wait for Max.” I tell Isabel.

“Okay what do you need us to do?” Michael asked.

“Your guess is as good as mine but I was thinking everyone could join hands. Then Michael put one hand on my shoulder and Isabel the other that way I will be connected to everyone and still have my hands free.” I said.

“Sounds like it might work.” Alec said as everyone does what I said.

“Okay now focus your mind on lending me your energy.” I said cupping the side of Tess’s head I am instantly pulled in.

It felt so weird I was seeing all of the events that had transpired through Tess’s eyes. Then I felt this warm feeling and then I saw a bright yellow light surrounding the group. It started to hurt and dark spots kept forming in front of my eyes.

“Ahh just a little more.” I said as the light starts to die down.

“Liz?” I hear Tess ask as I collapse on the desert floor as my world went black again only this time it was worse.

Tess POV

“Liz” I said seeing this bright light surrounding all of us; her eyes trained on me in deep concentration then the light starts to die down and she collapsed next to me.

“Liz!” I screamed catching the others attention as they were previously hunched over in exhaustion.

“Oh no what is wrong with her Michael?” I hear Isabel ask franticly.

“I think she just passed out from using too much energy. I know Tess here was almost dead.” Michael said as a blonde man bends over Liz checking her out to make sure she is okay,

“Just unconscious.” He said as I turn to face the group.
Liz is on the ground then there is Isabel, Maria, Kyle, Michael and four others that I have never seen before.

“So Tess want to tell us why you are back on earth?” Maria asked. I can hear the malice in her voice making me cringe.

“I had to warn you.” I said really not wanting to get into things in front of the other people I do not know.

“About?” Michael asked folding his arms across his chest in a warrior stance.

“Khivar is up to something. He found out that Nicholas is working for someone else and he is plotting something.” I said.

“And?” Kyle asked knowing there is more.

“She broke out of the mind warp.” Liz said slowly sitting up trying to get things back into focus.

“What?” The blonde man asked that was checking Liz earlier.

“Nasedo had put a permanent or what was supposed to be permanent mind warp on Tess making her think she was in love with Max. That she had to give Khivar Max’s child and all that stuff. The only problem was that Tess kept breaking out of it so Nasedo always had to put a new whammy on her.” Liz said.

“What?” Maria sounded half horrified and half disbelieving.

“I was becoming used to the warps. At first I did not know he was doing that until I would wake up in my bed or in strange places not remembering what had gone on the past week or so.” I said looking at the sand, I feel funny telling all of them this.

“Nice try Tess, Nasedo is dead.” Isabel said.

“No he was not.” Liz said.

“You’re taking her side in this Liz!” Maria screamed.

“Yes Maria because all of the horrid things she has done she never wanted to do. I saw her crying when she was mind-warping Alex she did not want to. Her leaving earth was just a set up that her and Ava came up with. Tess was never pregnant she just had to make us believe that so she could go back to Antar and warn the others of what was going on.” Liz said.

“Others?” Kyle asked.

“The rebels fighting against Khivar and those still loyal to the house of Antar. They had to know that there had been a breach with one of the protectors and that we all could be in danger who knows what Khivar and him have been up to.” I said remembering a few of the things Nasedo had said to me when I was under the warp.

“So you are trying to tell us that you “did not mean,” to kill Alex?” Maria asked not buying a word of what I was saying; not that I could blame her because if I was in her shoes I would react just the same.

“Yes I liked Alex okay he was a great guy and the only one who did not judge me from day one he at least put in an effort to get to know me. Other then Kyle no one really gave me the time of day and Alex at least were civil to me.” I said shooting a look at Maria.

“In all fairness Tess we did not know you were under a mind-warp so the way you were acting was the way we thought you was, and under the warps you were not very nice.” Liz said. I have to give the human credit at least she is honest with me.

“So you are saying you never slept with Max?” the blonde guy asked me.

“Right like I would want to, not that he did not try it is just that I liked someone else.” I said.

“Really?” Maria asked with a smirk. Okay she has been hanging around Michael for way too long.

“Yeah Max is just too well weird and he is so not my type.” I said.

“So did you or did you not kill Alex?” Isabel asked in an icy voice.

“Yes I did, but it was not me I was being controlled by Nasedo who was forcing me to control Alex.” I said feeling the tears starting to come.

“So why did Nasedo not just mind-warp Alex himself?” Michael asked.

“Because when you mind-warp someone you leave this impression in their brain that is sort of like your signature and if one of us had found his signature in Alex then we would have killed him.” I said a vile taste coming to my mouth.

“Wait you said when Nasedo was alive. Does that mean he is dead?” the blonde man asked.

“Yes he was killed by the Dupes protector Kal who killed him. Kal may not be the nicest of guys but he is loyal or at least more so then Nasedo.” I said.

“Well if you guys don’t mind I think we should get back to the Crashdown. Someone is bound to see all of us in broad day light.” The other blonde man said.

“Come on. Tess you can ride with us.” Kyle said as everyone gets in the cars and leaves the desert.

“Wait turn around.” Isabel said.

“What?” Michael asked.

“We have to get rid of the wreckage.” Isabel said as Michael turned the car around the other cars following.

“Let’s do this.” Liz said as she came up to our car. We all hold out our hands and in seconds the ship or what was left of it was turned to dust mixing with the sand leaving behind no trace that we were ever there.

“Okay no we can go home.” Michael said and we are once again leaving the desert. This time we do not turn around.

Part 25

White POV

“So Otto what is it like to be working for the special unit?” I asked the man who has been working with me for a while now. When the bureau asked me to take all of this on I asked if Otto could be transferred with me. I hate to admit it but I trust Otto.

“Different sir but in a good way.” Otto said with a smile.

“Yeah well when they asked me about who I wanted on my team you were the first person that came to mind. After all I know how you work so I am more trusting of you then some new guy.” I said for once I am giving him the truth. Sometimes I feel bad about lying to the guy. Well only once in a while.

“Yeah and lucky for me it is similar to my old job, but now instead of transgenic’s it is aliens.” Otto said. Crap I knew I forgot something.

“Actually Otto we will still be hunting transgenic’s. We have evidence that suggests that the aliens are working with Manticore.” I said seeing the other mans face fall.

“A conspiracy?” Otto asked looking glum.

“We are not sure at the time. All I was told was to watch out for a certain girl who might be one of the original escapees.” I said.

“Wow an X5 in Roswell that complicates things.” Otto let out a deep breath.

“More then you know.” I said quietly.

“What was that sir?” Otto asked me.

“Nothing just talking out loud.” I said as we head to the government Jet.

“Sir if you don’t mind me asking I was wondering if you could tell me what happened to the old head of the special unit.” Otto said with a nervous look on his face.

“They were originally not sure; it was like just one day he up and blew his cover to the senate. Then the next he disappears only later did we find out that he was killed by one of the aliens, and that another had been posing as him getting to know all of our dirty little secrets.” I said seeing Otto gulp visibly.

“So they know how we work, who we are and all of that?” Otto asked.

“No they know how the others work they know nothing of us. I do know that they are smart and that it will only be a matter of time before the figure us out.” I said giving it to him straight. The jet is beginning to take off.

“So where is our base of operations?” Otto asked.

“At first we were thinking the same place as before thinking that they would think we would not come back, but then we found out the Air Force is using the place again. We tried to get them out but apparently their boss is way above our boss.” I said.

“Air Force in Roswell sir?” Otto asked.

“Yes it appears that the desert is a good place to fly over and train.” I was wondering why they were there as well.

“So we have to be extra careful.” Otto said letting out a breath.

“Yes also we can not alert the locals because if we do they could tell the aliens and then we would be in real trouble.” I said.

“Please they can not be as bad as 452 and 494.” Otto said.

“Worse. They can make you see things that are not really there. They can heal themselves and others, blow things up, enter your minds, change shape you name it they can probably do it.” I said making Otto visibly tense.

“Okay so maybe this will be a lot worse then I thought.” Otto muttered.

“You have no idea.” I said pulling out the picture in the breast pocket of my jacket.

“Wow! Get a load of her she is hot. Is she one of them?” Otto asked.

“NO!” I growled.

“So who is she?” Otto asked still clearly interested.

“Just someone I know.” I said tucking the picture away again.

“Oh.” Otto said taking the hint to back the hell off.
***
Tess POV

“So Tess I think there is more then what you are telling us so spill.” Maria said her persona still cold towards me.

“I don’t know.” I said shooting a look at the four strangers.

“Don’t worry Tess they are friends.” Liz said sitting down next to the blonde guy.

“Oh are they like you?” I asked causing surprise to flash before their eyes so fast I almost missed it.

“Yes they are human.” Maria said.

“No I meant are they like you Liz?” I asked.

“What?” Michael asked standing up.

“Yes.” Liz answered causing the others to look at her in shock.

“What you did not think I could tell that she was not human? Please my powers are more advanced then you think. I can tell she is not human and that only the dude with the glasses is. The two blonde guys have human in them making them give off the same vibes as a hybrid, but I can sense the animal in them. The other girl is even less human almost not human entirely and Liz well there is even less human and some other things in there that I have never sensed before.” I said.

“What do you mean?” The human guy asked.

“Liz has animal in her yes, also Antrian, but there is something else; something new.” I said not knowing how to describe it.

“Okay fair enough. Tess you can trust them.” Liz said.

“Good well Maria is right there is more.” I said noticing the blonde’s triumphant smile.

“From the gloomy look on your face I am going to go out on a limb and say it’s not good.” Kyle said.

“Yes Kyle it is really not good. Guys the priestess on Antar says she senses something off with Max. She thinks Nasedo might have done something to him.” I said waiting for the reaction I know is coming, but when it does not I look at them more closely.

“Um guys I just told you something is off with Max.” I said.

“We know. Why do you think he is not here.” Kyle said.

Part 26

Tess POV

“We know. Why do you think he is not here.” Kyle said. I stopped for a minute and looked around; they did not seam worried that he was not there.

“Well that takes care of that bad news.” I said.

“Yes, but we do not know what is wrong with him.” Liz said leaning against the counter with her arms folded.

“Neither do we. Larek thinks it has something to do with Nasedo, but even he is unsure. We were kind of hoping you all would know what is up with him.” I said.

“Oh he just has his boxers in a bunch because Parker is dating Alec and not him. He still thinks he and Liz are “Soul mates.” Kyle said causing a few of the people to laugh.

“Who is Alec?” I asked.

“Oh sorry!” Liz yelled getting up. “Tess this is my older brother Zack, my older sister Max, her well I am not sure what he is now Logan, and my boy Alec.” Liz said causing a huge grin to come over Alec’s gorgeous features.

“So now that introductions are done is there anything else you need to tell us?” Zack asked.

“Um yeah we think that the FBI is going to appoint a new head of the special unit.” I said.

“What? I thought that Nasedo had exposed them and that the FBI did not want to take a risk and face being exposed again.” Liz said.

“Yes that is true, but there is another power at work here. Have any of you ever heard of a race called Familiars?” I asked.

“Yes.” They all responded together.

“Well they are everywhere and we have reason to believe that some are in the FBI.” I said.

“Oh great just what we need.” Maria said.

“Guys I think its time we talked about taking Deck up on his offer. When the battle comes our way we are going to need as much muscle as possible.” Liz said.

“Who is Deck?” I asked.

“He is one of the people who run Manticore.” Alec said.

“One?” Maria asked looking scared.

“Yes there are several.” Zack said.

“Oh Manticore is that place you all are from.” I said in understanding.

“Yes but how did you know that?” Liz asked.

“Like I said we have been watching Earth closely and know a lot of what goes on.” I said.

“Really? Because Manticore excelled in keeping hidden.” Alec said.

“That is true, but we have our ways.” I said winking at Liz who smirked.

“Okay guys back on topic. I say we go to Eagle Rock and here him out. If we don’t like what he has to say we can mind warp him into thinking we were never there. Would you help us Tess?” Liz asked me.

“Yes.” I said.

“Great. We will need to go in un-armed because there is no way we will get in other wise.” Alec said.

“Also I think it would be wise if only Tess, Liz, Alec, Zack and I went in. Sorry guys but is just too risky to put you all in danger.” Max said and I completely agree with her.

“What? Max no I am going with you there is no way I am letting you go in there alone.” Logan said causing Liz to growl.

“She will not be going alone she has us. Besides she cannot concentrate on what she needs to when she is worried about your safety. You will do more good for her out of there then in.” Liz said.

“Excuse me but who do you think you are making decisions like that for Max?” Logan asked outraged.

“She is right you will only do more harm then good.” I said sticking up for Liz.

“Yeah Liz is right except that I am coming along because I can provide fire power.” Michael said.

“Good thinking Michael.” Liz agreed.

“No I am going!” Logan said sounding a lot like a spoiled child.

“No Logan you are not. I would be too worried about your safety and I would put myself and the others at risk.” Max said.

“Come on Logan be reasonable about this.” Maria said shocking me, I expected her to want to come along as well.

“Wow Maria I have to say I am shocked. I never thought you of all people would go along with this ridicules idea.” Logan said.

“Hey! I know Liz and the others, and I know they are perfectly capable of doing this on their own. I know that they will work better not having to worry about me.” Maria said.

“Isabel, Kyle…” Kyle cuts off Liz.

“We will stay behind don’t worry. We know you need us here incase something goes wrong. We have your back Parker.” Kyle said and Isabel nodded her approval.

“Okay everyone in two days we will go to Eagle Rock. In the mean time we will get our supplies ready and come up with some story as to why Tess is back.” Liz said.

“Thanks. Do you think you guys could help me get re-enrolled into school?” I asked.

“Sure.” Liz said her face showing her shock.

“Wait you actually want to go to school?” Michael asked.

“Yes. Besides it would look weird if I was not in school.” I said.


Part 27

Liz POV

“Okay guys since I have not been on earth for a while can you tell me what social things I need to know for school?” Tess asked.

“Well the prom is coming up.” I said.

“Really? Do you all have dates?” Tess asked.

“Yes.” Isabel said her cheeks taking on a light blush.

“So who are your dates?” Tess asked.

“I am going with spaceboy. Yep he asked me this time.” Maria had a goofy grin on her face.

“I am going with Zack and I so can not wait.” “Isabel said.

“Wait Zack. As in Liz’s very cute older brother Zack?” Tess asked.

“Yes.” Isabel said laughing at Tess amazed face.

“So what about you Liz?” Tess asked.

“Well I am going with the handsome Alec.” I said which surprisingly gets a squeal for Tess.

“OMG that is so cool.” Tess said as Maria, Isabel and Max eagerly agree. Well Max was a little less enthusiastic.

“Now Tess we need to find you a date.” Isabel said.

“Well I don’t know. I don’t even have a dress.” She said looking down.

“Not a problem we can take you shopping.” Max said.

“Yes and I know for a fact Kyle still does not have a date.” I said.

“I do not know if he will want to go with me. I have a lot to make up to him. He thought I had slept with Max and made him carry Alex’s body which I know will haunt him for a long time.” Tess said. So this is the real Tess I have to say I like her more then the other. This Tess has compassion and cares for others. Just her presence is different; there is still the same confidence and strong will, but now there is warmth to it.

“Well there is no harm in just talking to him.” Maria said.

“Yeah after you left Kyle was really bummed and grumpy he missed you greatly Tess.” I said.

“I missed him as well it is just that I do not know if I could take his rejection because I like him so much.” Tess said.

“The important part is trying. If he shoots you down too much say to heck with you.” Max said waving one of her gloved hands in the air.

“So Max what is going on with you and Logan?” I asked.

“I don’t know he is just so hot and cold.” She said.

“I know he likes you I can see it in his eyes.” Tess said.

“I know he cares for me it’s just that sometimes I want to be put first and with him I don’t know if he can give me that. He is always putting a mission or some Eyes Only thing before me and sometimes I don’t know if I can take it.” Max said looking down at her gloved hands.

“There is more I can tell Maxie. What is it?” I asked.

“Well…well you know how we go into heat…well I am sacred of how he would react to it. At least Alec and Zack know what we go through Logan though I don’t know how he would take it.” Max said with a somber face.

“I felt the same way when I was with Max. Kyle knew about the heat cycles and was okay with it, but Max held me on this great white pedestal I was always afraid that the heat thing would turn him from me.” I said admitting one of my greatest fears.

“Heat is where your sex drives go into over time right?” Tess asked surprising me with her knowledge of us.

“Correct.” I said.

“It’s the same way with Logan. He has this perfect little image of me in his head and it’s like I am afraid to breathe the wrong way so that I don’t disappoint him.” Max said.

“I think that Logan would understand and if not there are plenty of other men out there chomping at the bit for a chance to go out with you.” Maria said.

“Well Liz at least now you can see how things go with Alec. I know it will only be your first date but I can sense that it will work out for the two of you. He is like you and understands you. Unlike Max he knows what you are going through and has to deal with the same issues.” Tess said.

“You know Tess I like this version of you or well the real you.” Maria said.

“Thanks.” Tess said.
***
Logan POV

Alec, Zack, Kyle, Michael, and I are all in the Parker kitchen.
“So what are they talking about?” Kyle asked seeing Zack and Alec’s intense looks.

“They are probably listening to the girl’s conversation.” I said shooting the two males a disapproving look.

“Wow you just totally looked like Mr. Evens.” Michael said taking a gulp of Snapple doused with Tabasco sauce.

“What is that supposed to mean?” I asked.

“Nothing man all he was saying is that you were sporting a look that Mr. Evens gives us.” Kyle said.

“Who is Mr. Evens?” I asked wanting to know if I should take offense to this comment or not.

“Isabel and Max’s dad.” Zack said.

“To answer your question Kyle we were listening to their conversation and let me tell you it is a good one all right.” Alec said whistling and raising his eyebrows. I have no idea if he is joking or not.

“Really what are they talking about?” I asked trying to join in.

“Nothing.” Zack said shooting a warning look at Alec who was about to respond.

“Well now you got us all curious.” I said folding my arms across my chest trying to show the two that I disapprove of what they are doing.

“Logan man just leave it alone.” Michael said.

“No these too obviously thought they were talking about something good it seems only fair that they share with those of us who don’t have enhanced hearing.” I said really wanting to know. It must have been about me for Zack not wanting Alec to say.

“Logan just leave it.” Zack said.

“No tell me before I go tell Max you were listening in.” I said seeing a strange look pass over both of their faces.

“No” Alec said.

“Fine.” I said getting up and heading towards Liz’s room where the girls are. I head right up and knock on Liz’s door.

“Come in.” I heard Liz yell.

“Hey guys you do realize Zack and Alec are listening in right.” I said as Liz and Max get weird looks on their faces. Max jumps up and pushes past me. I follow her and Liz into the kitchen. Zack and Alec see them and give them another look that has no meaning to me.

“Don’t worry we won’t tell.” Zack said smirking obviously the guy has been hanging around Alec too much.

“Okay.” Liz said as the two girls turn and leave.

“Wait you two aren’t going to hit them? At least yell at them!” I yelled outraged that the two just got off so easily.

“Logan man just let it go.” Alec said.

“Will you all stop telling me that! You just invaded their privacy and yet you don’t get in trouble!” I yelled some more.

“Logan just drop it.” Liz said in a voice that sounds a lot like a growl.

“Don’t tell me what to do Liz. It is bad enough that these two do, but I am older then you I demand some respect.” I said and then I feel myself being held up against a wall.

“Don’t you ever talk to her like that.” Alec ground out; his eyes jet-black. I look and see Zack up in a fighting stance as well as Max and Kyle. Michael is holding this green energy ball type of thing and Liz looked shocked. Oh no what have I done.

Part 28

Liz POV

The others are all in fighting stances, Alec has Logan pined to the wall and all I can do is stand here with my mouth open.

“Hey Liz, Max what…” Maria trailed off as Isabel and Tess followed behind.

“What is going on?” Isabel asked her brown eyes wide with fear.

“Don’t you ever talk like that to her again or I will personally kill you.” Max said. Alec dropped Logan and the man fell to the floor with a sickening crack. Alec came over to me and wrapped his arms around me. Logan is out cold; he fainted.

“He sounded so much like him.” I whispered into Alec’s chest.

“I know.” He said soothingly rubbing my back.

“Again what is going on? Liz are you alright?” Isabel asked.

“Logan went too far.” Zack ground out.

“OMG Michael what is in your hand?” Maria screamed as we all look at him. He is holding some type of energy ball that is completely green and is crackling. Michael’s eyes are completely black.

“Careful it’s not Michael…it’s Rath.” Tess said her voice quivering.
***
Lydecker POV

“Move them into block 2!” I yelled at the incompetent lot.

“Sir what about the two X7’s the guards can not control them?” the officer asked panicked.

“Teaser them and put them in solitary.” Renfro said calmly the officer saluted and ran off.

“We have most of the nomiles in and the X series have begun their usual routines.” I said walking with the infuriating woman.

“Good. I have to say Deck I am happy to see that over the past few months you have regained some semblance of your former self…I like it.” Renfro said walking away.

“You know she seems to be acting more superior then usual.” Felix my new assistant said.

“True but in time I will knock her off that pedestal she sets herself on.” I smirked as we walked past a bunch of X6’s sparing.

“So what do you have to report?” I asked knowing there had to be a reason he came all the way over here to find me.

“This morning we had a problem with four of the X5 males. It seems that X5 789 and X5 266 were getting a little friendly with two female X5’s. Their mates walked into the mess hall and…well lets just say the other two X5’s are in the infirmary right now and are not due out until some time next week.” Felix said.

“It’s getting bad.” I said.

“I know sir.”

“There is a reason we never allowed the males and the females to mate. It is in their DNA to be possessive of their mates and if anyone posses a threat whether they are the best soldiers or the worst they will attack to kill.” I said.
***
Liz POV

“Rath?” Maria whispered.

“Careful Maria, Rath is very protective. Michael must have panicked and taped into Rath.” Tess said.

“How?” I asked.

“We have strong traces of our former selves in us and if something so extreme happens we can tape into that part of our former selves. Sadly Logan must have upset Michael enough for him to allow Rath to take over.” Tess said.

“Our former selves can take over?” Isabel asked in fear.

“Yes, but don’t worry Isabel you are Valandra.” Tess said causing Isabel to pale considerably.

“What?” Isabel asked breathless.

“Oh no that’s not what I mean really Isabel you miss took me. See you are your own person, human. You are also alien and that is Valandra. For the most part our alien sides are mostly dormant and our human sides are what everyone sees, but when we get scared or really need it our alien sides come out. Do you get where I am going with this?” Tess asked Isabel uncertainly.

“Yes” Isabel said relief flooding her features.

“Okay so how do we get Michael back?” I asked.

“We don’t or we can’t. Michael has to come back on his own or when Rath thinks it is safe.” Tess said and I have to say it does make sense; Michael cannot come out until the coast is deemed clear.

“So is he dangerous?” Max asked looking at Michael wearily.

“Only to whomever he thought was posing a threat.” Tess said. Slowly the color in Michael’s eyes returned to normal and the energy ball disappeared with a zap. Michael’s warrior stance softened some as he took in his surroundings.

“Okay that was odd.” Michael said shaking his head to clear the cobwebs.

“How do you feel?” I asked as Alec loosened his grip on me to allow me to go over to Michael.

“A little shaky and jittery, but other then that fine.” Michael said looking at Maria and then me.

“Yes that energy ball took up a lot of your energy.” Tess said admiration in her voice.

“What do you mean? My blasts don’t use up that much energy.” Michael asked.

“No they don’t because they are simple for you, but energy balls Michael. Not even the King can do that.” Tess said.

“So my Spaceboy really is a super man.” Maria said humor lighting up her features causing Michael to blush at her words.

“I don’t know what happened it was like I thought Liz was in trouble and something in me just snapped and I heard this voice say let me help and I let it take over.” Michael said with a bewildered face.

“It is alright Michael, Rath just wanted to help.” Tess said causing panic to flood Michael’s features.

“Rath? Take over?” He asked.

“Michael don’t worry nothing bad happened. Your alien side just sensed you were terribly upset about something so he took over incase he was needed to fight.” Tess said calming Michael’s fears somewhat.

“I felt like I wanted to rip Logan to pieces the way he talked to Liz and the look in his eyes made me snap. Liz is like my sister I could not let him talk to her like that.” Michael said warming my heart. I really wanted to run over to him and hug him to death but I knew that Alec and Maria would not like that.

“Rath sensed what you feel for her and he wanted to protect her as well, but he might have over reacted just a little.” Tess said causing me to laugh.

“Thank you Michael for caring. I too think of you like a brother I mean you do the same things for me as my other brothers do. You pry, you protect and on occasion beat the crap out of the poor sap who makes me upset.” I said going over to him not caring at the moment if Alec and Maria might get upset and gave the big guy a hug.

“Wait pry?” Maria asked.

“Yeah remember I took her journal.” Michael said causing us all to laugh.

“Ow my head.” I heard Logan mumble on the floor as we all turn to the form on the floor who was starting to come to. We all for an arc around him; our arms folded across our chests in disproval.

“Welcome back to the land of the living.” Maria said in a chilly tone.

“Maria?” Logan asked in shock.

“Yes.” The fiery blonde spat.

“Ah ow my head feels like it weighs a ton.” Logan chuckled and then winced at the pain in his head from the small movement.

“Why am I on the floor?” the older man asked.

“Well maybe it is because you said something we did not like.” Kyle growled and I mean growl. If I did not know better I would have thought him a transgenic as well.

“What do you mean?” Logan asked trying to sit up. I roll my eyes and turn away.

“If you will excuse me I am going for a walk.” I said turning to leave.

“I am coming with you.” I heard Alec say as he grabbed my arm and ushered me out of the apartment into the backroom of the café and out the door. We are walking down Main Street quietly until Alec breaks the silence.

“You okay?” he asked.

”Yes. No.” I added as an after thought.

“I heard it too and that is what caused me to snap. Now that I think back I realize he did not know.” His voice was soft and full of regret but also pain, pain from a childhood that still haunted his every waking thought and terrorized him in the night.

“Not many do.” Was my simple reply.

“Who else knows?” Alec asked me as we come to the park where kids are playing and shouting.

“Only Zack.” I said as Alec let out a loud sigh.

“When did you get out?” He asked.

“When I was twelve. They kept me in solitary for days at a time with no food and water taking me out only to be brainwashed and tortured, but you know what that is like.” I said bitterly remembering the past.

“Yeah Manticore sure did know how to ruin a good childhood.” Alec said just as bitterly with a sick smile.

“Zack came back for me numerous times and always got caught, then one time he got lucky and found me and bailed me out.” I said remembering the day as if it just happened I can still feel my heart race with happiness.

“Yeah I remember Renfro was livid.” Alec said quietly.

“Oh no she did not punish you guys even more did she?” I asked fearful of his answer.

“No she seemed to think we had all learned our lesson. Security just got a heck of a lot tighter.” Alec said.

“I still remember her voice on the com saying I was all alone and that no one was going to save me.” Tears stinging my eyes.

“Yeah she is a bitch that’s for sure. Don’t feel bad none of us thought you were like the others. If anything we were happy that you got away. We knew you had it worse then us since you were in their unit.” Alec said.

“Alec he just sounded so much like Lisimba.” I said as tears threatened to spill.

“I know I heard it in his voice which is why I attacked. Any reminder of that man should be eliminated.” Alec said cynically.

“Just promise you will not tell the others they don’t know that I was in Manticore two years longer then they were.” I said as Alec put his arm around my shoulders.

“I promise not to tell, but you should tell them. Then maybe they will understand why we reacted the way we did.” Alec said as we continue to walk.

“I will think about it.” I said not wanting to talk anymore. I know he understood.

Part 29

Maria POV

Liz and Alec left leaving the rest of us here. There was something off with them and I think Zack knows what it is but he is not telling. Well leave it to me I will find out because from what I gather all Logan did was tell Liz not to talk to him like that. The others just reacted badly to it. Alec, Liz and Michael more so.

“Guys did you notice something off with Liz and Alec?” I asked causing the others to stop what they were doing. I looked over to Zack and saw his back stiffen.

“No they just probably wanted to go have a laugh at my expense.” Logan said bitterly rubbing his neck.

“No they did not.” Max said exasperated and tired.

“It’s just that I heard Liz say something that caught my attention. She said OMG he sounds so much like him and Alec seemed to agree.” I said watching Zack; his jaw is clenched slightly. If I did not know him so well I would not have noticed.

“Yes I heard that as well.” Tess said and Isabel nodded her head as well.

“They probably thought he sounded like Lydecker.” Max said as we hear glass shattering. I look over and Zack just smashed his cup.

“OMG Zack are you alright? What happened?” I asked helping him pick up the glass pieces.

“Yeah and it was nothing I just got a little angry when I heard Lydecker’s name.” Zack said looking down.

“Yeah I hear ya, that bastard.” Logan said causing Zack to growl. I would not have heard it if I had not been right next to him.

“Lydecker sounds like an evil guy.” Isabel said.

“Yes he sure is. I don’t know why you all trusted him when we went to take down Manticore.” Logan folded his arms across his chest in a superior manner.

“Ah Logan if I remember correctly it was you who trusted him.” I point out.

“It was not I was simply going along with Max and the others, a lot of good it did me I almost died.” Logan said causing my blood to boil.

“Excuse me but you were in a van the whole time everyone else was fighting and getting shot at not you!” I screamed as I leapt at the old geezer. Michael intercepted me before I hit the guy.

“As much as I would like to see you pulverize the guy I don’t think the Parker’s want blood on the new carpet.” Michael said and I do not know whether to kiss him or smack him for stopping me.

“Oh all right.” I huffed as Michael put me down. I look and see Zack smiling; he mouths good job.

“If you will excuse me I will be right back.” Zack said leaving the apartment.

“Okay what is it with people leaving?” I asked the others.

“He probably just went to find Liz and Alec. He still does not completely trust the guy.” Kyle snickered.

“Michael what is it?” Isabel asked. I look at Michael who has an odd expression on his face.

“What? Oh nothing.” He said his look still distant.

“Well later I am going to talk with Liz. Something freaked her out and I want to know what it is.” I said.
***
Zack POV

I had to get out of there and find Liz and Alec. I know that hearing Logan say what he did struck a nerve in both of them creating a pang of guilt deep inside me. I head towards the bridge where Liz usually ends up on her walks and sure enough there she is with Alec.

“Hey guys.” I said coming up to the two.

“Hey.” They both responded.

“Sorry about just walking off like that. I just needed to get away from Logan.” Liz said.

“It’s okay I understand you two needing to get away. I just wanted to make sure you both were okay. I know he reminded you of a not so pleasant time in your lives.” I said causing Alec to smirk.

“You two out of everyone in there knows what it was like for me and the others seeing as how the two of you were in Manticore more then the others.” Alec looked distant like his mind was elsewhere.

“Yes we were and no one needs to know we were as far as they are concerned Liz and I escaped with the rest of them. I don’t want them looking at us and feeling sorry for us.” I shuffled my feet kicking a rock.

“I respect that and the both of you. Don’t tell Max but you, Liz and I think her name is Brin were respected back at Manticore after all the crap you guys went through. Liz more so because she went through more then all of us.” Alec said and for once I am seeing the real Alec not the fake happy go lucky guy persona he puts on.

“Yeah and I think it would shock them if they were to find out that Liz has more training and battle skill then I do.” I said causing the other two to chuckle.

“Not even Max knows what we went through, how bad things really were. Lydecker is a prince compared to the others.” Liz whispered.

“Yes baby sis he is, but I think the others will have a hard time buying into that.” I said.

“Come on let’s get back before Maria has a melt down.” Liz groaned.

“Oh that reminds me. Maria knows something is up and she has the others asking questions with her. They heard what you said. Max tried to play it off, as Lydecker but the others are not completely buying it. Also Logan is getting on everyone’s nerves so watch out…I don’t trust him.” I said making the other two laugh; I guess I say that a lot.

“When have you ever?” Liz asked smiling.

“Never.” I said causing the other two to laugh more as we headed into the back room of the café and up to the apartment.

“Hey guys miss us?” I asked coming into the room.

“See I told you he was going to find her.” Kyle said and everyone rolled his or her eyes.

“Of course I went to find them. You did not honestly think I would let Alec alone with my sister for more then a few minutes did you?” I asked.

“Hey that hurts.” Alec said putting his hand over his heart in mock hurt.

“Yeah I mean if we wanted to do anything we could do it in a minute what with our super human speed and everything.” Liz said wiggling her eyebrows; I swear I just felt my hair turn gray.

“Your right I think you would be safer with Kyle.” I said causing Michael to laugh.

“Hey.” Kyle said getting the fact I was making fun of him.

“Ah been there already did that.” Liz muttered.

“Yeah baby.” Kyle wiggled his eyebrows.

“Okay I so did not need to hear that.” I groaned.

“Your telling me I had to sit through Liz going on and on about Kyle when they were dating.” Maria said grimacing.

“Hey I was not that bad.” Liz pouted.

“Yeah not as bad as she was with Evens.” Kyle said.

“No one can top that.” I said.

“Sometimes I swear Max would put a spell on her.” Isabel said causing me to laugh. It must be in their genes.

“So Liz are you all right? You and Alec seemed a little freaked out.” Maria asked causing me to tense slightly.

“Yeah it was just something from my past kind of stirred up.” Liz said.

“What is your excuse?” Logan asked.

“You were snippy to my girl. That was reason enough.” Alec growled.

“If you guys say so. It’s just the way you two reacted I thought maybe there was something you were not telling us.” Maria said. Why do I get the feeling she is not going to let this go?

Part 30

Liz POV

Maria really does not want to let this go. I get the feeling she is letting up just so that she can corner Alec or myself later and grill us to death. It is just like her to wait for the person to show weakness then go for the kill, in that way Maria is a true warrior and yet she does not know it.

“So where did you two go?” Max asked as us girl’s headed back into my bedroom. I got the feeling the boys had a few more things to say to Logan.

“We went to the park and just walked around.” I said.

“Are you sure you are okay? Why did Alec react like that?” Isabel asked.

“I am fine and Alec reacted the way he did because Logan was taking on a tone very familiar to all of us and he did not like it.” I said purposely being evasive. I do not want to openly lie to my friends and family.

“Like who?” Maria asked.

“Lydecker?” Max asked and I nod my head.

“Logan just had that Lydecker trade mark condescending tone that it just brought back some bad memories for Alec and he snapped.” I said.

“Yeah I mean I know you guys were trained to attack among other effects, but to actually see it was just unusual so to speak.” Isabel said.

“It’s okay a lot of people have that reaction.” I said which is why I really do not want to tell them the rest.

“So Isabel are you alright?” Tess asked.

“Yes why?” Isabel asked.

“Well you just found out some shocking information I was wondering how you were dealing with it all?” Tess asked.

“Actually I am okay with it. I mean some how I knew Vilandra was really in here with me or that I was her. In a way it scares me because I do not want to make the same mistakes I once did, but at the same time it is comforting.” Isabel said.

“I get that, but what mistakes do you mean?” I asked. Isabel looked down.

“Promise you will not tell?” Isabel asked us.

“You have our word.” Max said.

“Tess probably knows, but in my past life I betrayed everyone. I sold my family and friends out just because I was in love with Khivar.” Isabel said tears streaming down her face.

“What? Isabel that is not true.” Tess said moving closer to Isabel.

“What?” Isabel asked in confusion.

“Vilandra was not the one to sell everyone out. It was Angerona.” Tess said.

“Who?” I asked.

“My sister.” Isabel whispered.

“Yes your twin sister.” Tess said.

“Wait I thought you and Max were twins.” Maria looked very confused.

“They are kind of.” Tess said.

“Huh?” Max asked.

“Really they are triplets. Vilandra the oldest, Zan the middle child, then Angerona the youngest and the evil one.” Tess said.

“She wanted to be me.” Isabel said.

“Yes she was always jealous of you; often she would pretend to be you. That is why everyone thought it was you that night, but it was Ana.” Tess explained.

“I remember telling her to take my dress off that I needed to wear it for the ball. She got angry and threatened me.” Isabel said her eyes had this glassy look to them as if she was remembering a dream she just had.

“Yes she let them in that night. After everything was destroyed the queen found out that Ana was the one who was secretly seeing Khivar. Only Ana was pretending to be you hence Khivar's obsession with you.” Tess said.

“So why is she not here on Earth with the rest of you?” I asked.

“The queen was furious with Ana and feed her essence to the granolith so that it could not do anymore harm.” Tess said.

“So if she is gone why is Khivar still going after Isabel?” Maria asked.

“He still thinks he is in love with Vilandra no matter how many times we tell him it was Ana.” Tess said rolling her eyes at the dictator’s stupidity.

“So was I in love with Rath?” Isabel asked.

“In a way, but only as a sister loves a brother. You two put on an act for the rest of Antar and only those close to you realized you two were not in love. It was more a marriage of convince and duty as was my marriage to Zan.” Tess said.

“Wait you never loved each other?” I asked. This just keeps on getting weirder by the minute.

“No we just married each other because it was our duty or his duty. You see I am not of royal birth I am a priestess of the granolith.” Tess said.

“Wow so the message from home was…” Tess cuts Isabel off.

“Fake. It was your mother but the message within was fake. It was created to throw off our enemies which it did.” Tess said.

“So why go to all that trouble?” Max asked.

“We knew there was an enemy on board, but we did not know who. We needed to make things believable so as not to alert Khivar. Once I found out it was Nasedo I started working with Kal and Ava. I found that Kal was a true protector even though he was not the best he was good enough. We contacted home and then we came up with the plan of getting me back to Antar. On Antar they healed the damage done to my head thanks to Nasedo and here I am.” Tess said.

“Wow.” I said after hearing Tess’s explanation.

“Yeah well that’s the way it went down.” Tess shifted uncomfortably.

“So back to the prom. Tess I think you should really talk to Kyle.” Isabel said. I have to agree with her the two need to work things out; my head hurts. It is like this pressure pressing on my temples.

“Hey Liz you okay?” Tess asked seeing me massage my head.

“Yeah fine, ahh!” I scream clutching my head…not this again.

Flash
“You two have been assigned as breeding partners.”

Flash
Liz, Max, Syl, Brin, Alec, Zack, Krit, and Zane in line standing at attention.

Flash
Max running towards Liz in the Crashdown with a knife.

Flash
“I told you I would not let you hurt them!” Max yells ready to stab a semiconscious Liz. “I don’t think so.” A man says throwing Max across the room.

Flash.
“Ames help!” Liz screams.

Ames, Help!” I scream at the top of my lungs. The others barge into my room.

“Liz?” Alec asked.

“More flashes?” Isabel asked worried.

“Yes.” I whispered hating how loud my voice sounded at that moment.

“Something is wrong you are having too many visions.” Isabel said in a strained voice.

“How many has she had today?” Tess asked the others worried.

“At least three times.” Alec said.

“You’re right that is not normal.” Tess said her face scrunching in confusion.

“What is it Tess?” I asked.

“Liz I think that you might have already had the ability to see in the future. I think that Manticore made it so that you could see things before they happen. The problem is they did not realize they did and so you never knew. When Max healed you I think he sort of gave you an energy boost and caused your power to go into over drive.” Tess said.

“What makes you think that?” Maria asked.

“Well you can not have the power to see into the future unless you are born with it. Not even through healing can you give someone that power they need to be born with it. It is a rare and special gift in both our worlds” Tess said.

“Nice going Manticore you really out did yourself this time.” I mumbled still rubbing my sore head.

Part 31

Liz POV

“So what did you see?” Michael asked.

“I am not sure the images were more blurred then usual. This time it was more emotions and sounds.” I said trying to describe what happened.

“Well what were they?” Kyle asked.

“I felt strength and fear. I heard Lydecker say something about breeding partners, then Max screaming at me, and this guy attacking. The weird part is I remember feeling safe with him like I know he can not hurt me and wants only to protect me.” I said.

“You screamed a name do you remember who it was?” Max asked me always the protective big sister.

“Yeah it’s that guy his name is Ames something. He pulled Max away when he was trying to kill me.” I said.

“Max trying to kill you?” Tess asked looking worried.

“Yes.” I said.

“She saw him attacking her another time as well.” Zack pointed out.

“That’s it!” I yelled grinning like an idiot.

“What?” Isabel asked becoming impatient.

“I knew I had heard his voice before. In one of my previous flashes I heard a guy say hello baby sister and it was Ames’s voice.” I said excited.

“Wait do you think he could be one of our brothers?” Max asked.

“No he can’t be. None of them have ever used that name.” Zack said causing Max’s face to fall.

“Why would he call Liz baby sister then?” Maria asked.

“I am not sure he was talking to me.” I admitted sullenly.

“Don’t worry Liz we will find out more.” Alec said trying to offer comfort. He is excellent at hiding his emotions from the world, but I am better. I can see through the mask he has up; I can see he is worried.

“Alec can I talk to you on the balcony for a minute?” I asked.

“Sure.” He said.

“We will be in the kitchen.” Maria said as everyone piled out of my room and Alec and I climbed through my window.

“What’s wrong?” I asked clearly catching him off guard.

“Nothing, why?” He asked letting his façade slip ever so slightly.

“It will not work on me, Alec; remember I too am an expert at hiding my emotions. I can sense you are worried about something what is it?” I asked again.

“When you guys blew up the DNA lab you thought it would be the end of things but it was not. They will find a way to continue creating new soldiers even if that means having a few pregnant soldiers.” Alec said.

“They wouldn’t?” I asked feeling sick at the idea knowing Manticore would not make it pleasant.

“They would and you know it.” Alec said giving me a look that says don’t deny it.

“I guess I knew deep down things were not over and Lydecker showing up in Roswell just makes it that much clearer.” I said wishing the pit in my stomachache would stop hurting.

“You know they set me loose for a reason.” Alec said.

“I know they wanted you to kill Eyes Only and bring the rest of us in.” I said.

“No they wanted me to kill Eyes Only and everyone else except for you and Max. They wanted me to have Max give up your location so that I could bring you back. Manticore knows that you and Max have DNA far superior to any they have ever cooked up.” Alec said.

“Why didn’t you turn us in?” I asked.

“Because I remember you. I know you never saw me but I saw you. You always were being dragged off for more tests and you had this strength about you that I was drawn to. I remember thinking that I wanted you and that I would do anything to make sure no one ever hurt you. I saw how they would cut and beat you and yet your eyes still held that fire in them that never died. It was two days before you escaped that I saw my worst nightmare come true. Renfro was dragging you by your arms from your cell and I saw your face; your eyes had no life left in them. I reacted badly and attacked two guards landing myself in even more hot water. I thought they killed you. Later when I heard the siren go off I knew you escaped and some how I knew I would see you again.” Alec said looking at the ground.

“I never really saw anyone else I was only able to see guards and that was it.” I said.

“Yeah I remember. Also I recall the day Renfro told me I had to hunt you down and bring you back. I knew I could not do it because above all else I never wanted to see your eyes as lifeless as they once were.” Alec said causing my breath to hitch slightly.

“Alec.” I said and the most amazing thing in the world cuts me off. Alec’s lips on mine. They were warm yet firm and gentle at the same time. He tasted so sweet it had a dizzying effect on me. When he pulled away it was so calm; he was smirking.

“Okay now I have been thinking about that ever since I first saw you when I came to Roswell.” He said.

“Really did it live up to your expectations?” I asked coyly.

“Oh yes.” He said as we both lean in and kiss again.

“So this is why you wanted us all gone?” Kyle asked laughing as Alec and I break away from one another.

“Kyle!” I yelled in surprise having not heard his approach.

“I thought you two would have heard me coming but I guess you other wise occupied.” Kyle said laughing.

“What do you want?” I asked not being able to hide the grin on my face.

“Zack wants to discuss some plans.” Kyle said.

“Okay we will be right there.” Alec said as Kyle leaves.

“He sure does have the worst timing.” I grumbled.

“Yeah he is worse then Maria.” Alec said laughing as we climbed back inside through my window.

“Here they are I am surprised they came up for air.” Kyle said laughing.

“What!” Maria yelled as her, Isabel, Tess and Max came running over to us.

“OMG like how did it happen what was it like?” Tess fired at me.

“Wow you girls really do tell each other everything.” Alec said smirking.

“Duh.” We all chorused.

“Welcome to Michael’s and my world. We have to deal with them and their constant chatter.” Kyle said as Michael nods his head in agreement.

“Hey why are you complaining? I seem to remember you saying something about valuable insight into how women think.” I said causing the guys to stare at him.

“What? I was dateless one night so I went to the girl’s night with Alex. The four of us hung out that’s it.” Kyle shifted uncomfortably.

“Kyle sitting through a girl’s night? Now that’s what I call brave.” Zack said laughing as he flipped through a catalog of some sort.

“Hey we are not that bad.” Isabel huffed.

“Yes you are.” The guys all chorused.

“So back to the kiss what was it like?” Maria asked her eyes sparkled with curiosity.

“Shouldn’t you guys take Liz aside to ask her I mean Alec is standing right there?” Michael asked.

“It’s not like he will not hear it anyway.” I pointed out.

“True.” Alec said making this really cute face.

“Well I have to say that had to have been the best kiss ever.” I shied causing the other girls to squeal.

“Max did you just squeal?” Logan asked.

“What my baby sister just had the kiss of a lifetime I am thrilled.” Max said.

“Kiss of a lifetime I like the sound of that.” Alec mumbled smirking.

“Hey you know this can damage a guy’s ego here.” Kyle said in mock hurt.

“Aww Kyle I am sure you’re a good kisser it’s just that I am a superior being and all.” Alec puffed out his chest pretending to act all appealing.

“Yes but I am the captain of the basketball team, wrestling, baseball, football, and cross country.” Kyle whined.

“Wow Liz when you said you dated a jock you meant you dated a jock.” Max said laughing.

“Honey I have dated them all.” I said pretending to be hot stuff.

“Yes but I am the best right?” Alec asked.

“Of course.” I said, as we are about to kiss Zack cuts us off.

“Okay I stop things at kissing. I do not want to know about my sister’s love life and have a front row seat all at the same time.” Zack said.

“Same here.” I said.

“So what is this part of the plan you wanted to talk about?” Alec asked.

“What kind of deal we are going to make with Lydecker.”