Author : Cindy

Disclaimer: I do not own or profit from the characters of Roswell.

Setting : 20 years after departure

Feedback : Wanted

Shading his eyes from the sun, Max Evans stared into the open sky. The sky was so blue today and the clouds reminded him of large vats of cotton candy. The desert floor was already warm under his feet and the air was cool against his face, but it did not bother him in the least. For today was a day to rejoice, today he would see him for the first time. Today he would lay eyes on his firstborn son.

20 years had passed since the day Tess left Earth with his child in her womb, 20 long years, 20 years of battles. Every time he thought he was close to holding his son in his arms for the first time it was snatched away from him. False leads and false hopes plagued him until he felt Liz and his family was suffering from his determination to find him.

On their last attempt 2 years ago Max was at least able to obtain his name from a relative of a rebel who was killed for helping them. His name was all that Max had. Tess had named him Zan, Zan after his duplicate, after the man that once loved Tess. Max was not fond of the name but that is all that he had of his son. The rebel was killed two days later and Max could no longer risk any other lives to bring Zan home nor could he continue to neglect Liz and his children.

He and Liz had been married for a little over 19 years and had 2 children of their own. Kayla was a bright and beautiful 18 year old who loved to be a social butterfly like her aunt Isabel. Her twin brother Seth tended to be a bit on the timid side. Max always laughed and insisted Seth took after him. Early on Max and Liz realized they both inherited an amazing amount of “special powers”. They were like Max outwardly human, but inwardly remarkable. Their powers were stronger than Max, Michael and Isabel could have ever imagined.

Max and Liz decided they would tell the children where they were from, who and what they were and how to use their powers. Any other way they stood a chance of the children using their powers and being exposed.

His thoughts trailed off to the past to the day that Kayla and Seth were born. To their first steps and their first words which were Momma. He silently cursed to himself thinking of how he had missed that part of Zan’s life.

Throwing her car in park and fumbling with the seat belt she stumbled out of the car. Her once long blonde hair was now replaced with a deep auburn color and her black leather pants had given way to mostly jeans these days. But as always she looked perfect. Even the small crows feet around her eyes screamed with perfection. She moved quickly toward her brother throwing her arms around his still sturdy shoulders.

“Max” her voice cracked. “Is he here”?

Isabel pulled back and studied the desert searching for her nephew. Her eyes scanning the large rock formation where they had began their lives here on earth. Her heart had pounded against her rib cage constantly since Max called her in Santa Fe to tell her the news about Zan. Now her eyes locked feverishly onto the rock.

“ Seems fitting doesn’t it Max?” Isabel placed her hands against her hips.

“ Fitting?” Max questioned

“ Yeah, fitting. This is where our lives on Earth began this should be where Zan’s life on Earth begins as well.” She replied.

Not knowing weather he agreed with her or not he slowly nodded and looked back up to the sky. The desert wind began to blow softly through his hair exposing the multiple gray hairs that showed his age.

“ Where’s Alex?” Max asked.

“ Where do you think?”

Max knew where Alex was. He was at his gravesite. Or at least what was once thought to be his gravesite. Tess had taken everything away from him the day she turned him over to Kivar replacing him with a human clone. They stole his memories and took what life he would have ever had away from him. He spent almost 8 years on Antar in a dark cell. Until a skin that had known and loved Courtney realized who he was. After learning that he was alive it took over a year to get him back to Earth. Alex was a changed person after that. He had grown bitter in the cell on Antar and could hardly stomach Earth food or breath the air when he returned. He looked so different from the tall and lanky Alex that everyone loved. He was almost unrecognizable. His hair had turned much darker and longer. His skin was dark and worn as if he had spent time in the Middle East. His build was much like that of a bodybuilder, which Max assumed it was from physical labor.  Worst of all Alex remembered nothing of Antar other than vague memories of torture. Isabel felt it was mostly just because he chose to block it out. She tried hard to make connections with him to learn of Zan’s location but Alex had pushed it down so deeply even she couldn’t reach that part of his mind.

When Alex returned they all knew he could not come back to his normal life in Roswell so it was good that he looked so different. His parents were both dead ironically killed in a horrible car accident. Isabel felt it would be best still to introduce him as Adam to friends and family. Adam as Alex was known, was a friend from elementary school who had moved away a number of years ago and decided to come back to live in Roswell. Again Jim Valenti put his life on the line for them and made Adam a real person with forged documents.

Isabel’s grumbling voice interrupted his thoughts once more “ Max, are you still here, Earth calling Max?”

Kicking a couple of rocks around with his black shoes he smiled a bit “ Yeah Is I am still here. I just can’t help but to still feel so badly about Adam…. I mean Alex.”

“ There is nothing we can do to change that Max we have discussed this. Alex does not blame you only Tess and Kivar.” her voice more insistent than ever before regarding the subject. “ That is it Max, end of discussion. This is not the time for regrets or blame. If it weren’t for Alex on Antar we would have never gained allies.”

“ I know Isabel but it was at the expense of his life.” He insisted.

“ And Alex realizes that. He doesn’t regret it. Since gaining allies he feels his life as Alex wasn’t sacrificed for nothing.” her eyes dropping to the desert floor.

“ Isabel half the allies we gained have been murdered for helping us. The man who originally helped send Alex back to Earth was killed a few days later. His son was killed for releasing information to us years later. Those are just the people we know of. I have more blood on my hands than I ever care to see.” his voice harsh and over barring.

“ Max”! Her voice broke into a bitter tone. “ They made their choice, not because of what you wanted but because what they wanted. They feel that someday their king will return. Weather it be you or your son, someday their king will return and set them free. If you can convince Zan that Kivar is evil, together you can return and bring peace to their planet.”

Before Max could respond another car neared them sand flying from the tires jutting outward into the swirling breeze. A second vehicle followed close behind. Max and Isabel knew both well. The one in the front a green land rover belonged to Michael and Maria and the White and gray SUV, Jim Valenti.

The green land rover came to a grinding halt, Maria stomping out of the passenger seat ranting and raving.

“Dam Michael I am telling you one day you are going to kill us.”

Maria’s smile would always give her away. She could never stay mad at Michael very long. Usually it lasted about 10 seconds and then it was all smiles again. She and Michael had been very happy over the past 20 years and enjoyed irritating each other often over those years. Maria and Michael shared a common smart ass named Jacob or as they called him Jake. This was their only child. He was conceived the first time Michael and Maria had slept together. So he and Zan were very close in age. Maria’s hair was still just as blonde but now short again as it varied over the years. Her smile still as vibrant and her singing career had been a fulfilling one. She sang and produced 4 successful albums and was now the owner of a record production company called “space boy records”.

Michael, well Michael was still just Michael. Nothing had changed about Michael other than his age and the gray hairs he tried to hide. His life as always revolved around Maria and he was from day one crazy over Jacob. Michael and Jacob spent a lot of time on the road doing concert tours with Maria and spending a considerable amount of time on tour buses. They had spent much more family time in the past 5 years since she now owned the production company and rarely did concerts any longer.

“Yeah, Yeah, Yeah Maria Your alive still aren’t you?” He mumbled.

Maria had already made her way to Max and Isabel wrapping her still tiny arms around them and squeezing them tightly.

“ I am so excited. Do we know how much longer we will have to wait?” she said as she squirmed around like a schoolgirl.

Max’s smile showed his joy and anticipation. “ I wish. The contact said around what would be noon our time” Looking at his watch.

Michael made his way back to Jim’s SUV. Jim’s body was not what it used to be. He looked a lot like his father. He had gained a few pounds here and there and gravity had not been kind to him. All the years of stress and helping to find Zan had taken a toll on him. He still had that fire in his eyes though. By no means was he in anyway disabled it just took a bit longer these days.

“ You making it old man?” Michael snickered

Jim looked at him as if he was a crazy “ Do fleas live on dogs?” Yes Michael you act like I am 90 and need a cane.” He rebutted.

Kyle’s wife Sarena popped her head out from the back door as she opened it. “ Michael the old man is just fine. He is and always will be full of fire.” She laughed vividly.

Max still cringed every time he saw Sarena. He couldn’t help it. She was identical to her.

Funny thing about Sarena was it was Ava. Ava had spent a few of years out on her own. She had struggled for the first few months but then called Liz for help. She had no background or social so Liz with the help of Jim Valenti created a new life and name for her. Ava chose the name on her own and became Sarena Whitlow. After a year or so she decided to move back to Roswell. She along side Liz enrolled in collage. They both majored sided by side in molecular biology and became very close. They worked together for years at ENMU after graduation in the biology and science departments then after Liz’s father passed away they took a leave of absence to run the crashdown. She fought very hard to redeem what Tess had done and to prove herself. She worked endless nights trying to find allies, save Alex and bring Zan home.

For the first year Jim agreed as with Tess to take her in. He loved Tess and she had broken his heart. He would have died for her and after only a few months would have done the same for Sarena. She was all that Tess was but without the evil plan behind her. She quickly fell in love with Kyle as Kyle did her. However, Kyle had a tendency to have a flash backs from the mind warps Tess had inflicted years ago. Every now and again he thought she was Tess. This was not easy for Sarena but she loved Kyle and they would work through it.

 Kyle and Sarena gave birth to their only child Leah who was born 2 years after Max and Liz’s twins. She was by far one of the most rambunctious children to have been born of the group. As a child she always wanted to play with the twins and Jacob and did a good job of keeping up with them. Sadly they tried for more children but were unable to conceive.

Kyle and Alex both popped out the other side of the SUV. Kyle’s hair was quite a bit shorter and in an army style cut. Trying to hide the gray was almost impossible for him and he became weary or trying to cover it. He looked much like his father and pretty much dressed the same as well.

Max felt a rush come over him. It had been at least 2 years since they had all been in this position. In the position of trying to find Zan again but this time it was different. This time Zan was coming to them.

His heart pounded vigorously to feel the connection again, the common bond that was felt when they were all together. Something was missing though, something that meant almost more to him than this day. He was missing Liz.

He hoped she would be there to meet her stepson. To greet him with open arms but running the crashdown was no easy feat. The waitresses kept quitting, and the cook was honestly worse than Michael was years ago. Nevertheless, Max knew that the crashdown was not the only thing keeping her away. Max had been obsessed for years trying to find Zan and it had taken a toll on their relationship. Yes she loved Max as much as the day he saved her in the crashdown but the animosity toward Tess and Zan for taking Max away from her and the children on Earth was a lot to bear. Even though Tess was gone she still had to share Max with her. His hate for her consumed him every time a lead on Zan went south. She was happy for him but expressed several times how he may just be opening a can of worms he can’t put back.

Just then a small black Jeep could be seen traveling steadily toward them. Max’s eyes fixated on the jeep. The entire group knew how hard it was for Liz to come to this and how hard it would be for her to meet who had been more important than her and her own children for years. She loved him though. She always had and always will. She still wanted nothing more than for Max to be happy and she was prepared to sacrifice her feelings once more to accomplish that.

********************************************************************

Zan stood in front of the mirror his dark brown eyes stared back at him, eyes that could melt a thousand glaciers. Today he would meet his biological father. He was excited but darkness loomed over him as he prepared to leave.

For years Kivar had been his father and he had been groomed to become the king of Antar. He was not only going to meet his biological father today but to put an end to his life as well. Kivar made it very clear that before he could take over as king of Antar the man he called Max would have to cease to exist.

Zan played it over and over in his mind, the evil that Max had inflicted upon his planet the horrible slayings that he had ordered on the majority of his father Kivar’s race and now he would be paying for them. Yet he wondered. He wondered so often if what Kivar had told him was true. There were so many rebels that spread rumors that Max was still alive and would soon be coming back to Antar to free his people. His people loved him and they loved Zan as well. Even when he visited the slave quarters the people would fall at his feet. They did not seem to be a hostile race. They seemed very meek and loving. They called out to Zan when he visited “ You are the rightful air to the thrown, save your people. Your father will free us.” They insisted over and over with each visit he made. However, he was not one of them. He may have been from the loins of Max but his race and loyalty was with Kivar.

They did not seem like a race full of hate nor did they seem irrational. Their intelligence was remarkable considering their conditions. They were only allowed to read books that were approved by Kivar and laws that Kivar had put in place. None of the books allowed them to learn only to read about the past. Kivar felt any books pertaining to their race should be destroyed or they could cause an uprising in the slaves. As Kivar put it “ We do not want the monsters of Antar to become a problem again.”

At times Zan wondered if Kivar was any different than Max. He too has enslaved a race. By Kivar’s hands many people had perished. Many people that he felt quite possibly should not have. However, the fact still remained Kivar was only trying to ensure their survival. Max had cold bloodedly murdered almost an entire race just out of greed and power.

A light tapping sound called his attention away from the long mirror. The door opened slowly revealing a young woman dressed in what could be called meager clothing. Her long brown hair pulled back on both sides.

“ Will you be eating with your father this morning Prince Zan?” He small voice called to him.

“ Yes Nadia I will.” Zan replied

She began to sit his clothing out on his bed. She called on her powers to aid her. The doors to the closet moved open slowly as she began to make the bed. A short sleeved white shirt which looked to have come from Earth materials floated onto the bed along with a pair of course bluish pants.

“Your father wants you to wear this clothing for your trip. He said this is what they wear on Earth.”

“ I know about Earth Nadia. I have studied it for years. It is about the most revolting planet I think I have ever had the displeasure of reading about. It is dirty and the life forms, humans, are far less intelligent than any of the other planets in the galaxy.”

Nadia’s beautiful brown eyes drifted to the floor as if she were scared. “ Yes prince Zan but if you will remember you are part human as well.”

Zan’s brown eyes seemed to turn red. “ Human you say Nadia? I am no more human than the water in the quarry is blue. Mention it again and you will be in the slave quarters with the rest of Antar’s monsters.” his voice harsh and serious.

With her head firmly planted downward Nadia continued with her work. She was not normally allowed to use her powers to aid her with work but Zan had a soft spot for her. She was an exceptionally beautiful girl, long brown hair, dark brown eyes, and a smile that could light an entire galaxy. However, she was a slave and this meant she was off limits to Zan. He was to only be accompanied by a female of the same stature or money. Mabey this was the reason for his interest in her or mabey it was because she was beautiful, intelligent and he had known her his whole life.

Nadia and Zan had practically grown up together. For years Nadia’s mother Nadana lived in the palace doing most of the cooking, cleaning, and being Zan’s Nanny. Each day Nadana carried Nadia in a backpack to do her housework and tend to Zan. When Nadia was 15 her mother died and she was forced to take over the position.

Zan removed his cloak for Anna to help him dress. His body was firm with rippling muscles. There was not a place on Zan that didn’t scream with perfection. He stood a good 6”2 and weighed around 185 lbs. He knew he resembled Max even down to the smile. The picture was a bit tatterd but it was all he had of him. He had found the picture in his mother’s quarters 16 years ago and he had kept it hidden in a drawer since. He wasn’t sure why he kept it considering his hatred for abandoning him and the blood he had shed on Antar but he kept it anyway.

Nadia stared at Zan with amazement as she always did when she helped him dress. It was one part of her job she did not mind. She also knew that Zan didn’t seem to mind her looking either. She knew he had a soft spot for her. She could tell by his tone of voice, the look in his eyes and the fact that he let her use her powers.

Using your powers if you were a slave on Antar was forbidden above all other laws. Death came quickly to those who disobeyed.

 She knew Zan almost better than anyone. Most of their conversations were short but she knew Zan, she knew Zan’s heart. She believed every word her mother had said about Max and the rebels and she knew this mission was going to change Zan or at least she hoped it did. Zan was harsh on the outside only because that is what Kivar expected. On the inside was a loving and kindhearted man that was not sure who or what to believe. She trusted that one day he would see the truth.

Nadia’s small hands helped guide the white T- shirt over Zan’s head. Her fingers brushed lightly against his dark hair and trailed down his arms as he inserted them in the openings. Zan’s normal attire did not call for Nadia to touch him. It mostly consisted of button up shirts and cloaks she was not allowed to help him with his pants.

Zan jumped a little at Nadia’s touch. Her eyes became wide with fear. Fear that she had done something wrong.

“ Nadia?” Zan questioned.

“ Yes prince Zan?” she replied.

“ Will you miss me?”

“ Uh, of course I will miss you prince Zan who will I have to keep me busy all day?” she said while forcing a smile.

Grabbing Nadia’s hand Zan pulled her close to him, his voice soft and subtle “ No Nadia, I mean will you miss me?” he questioned again.

Nadia’s eyes were filled with fear, her mouth unable to form words at this point. Her heart began to pound frantically under her meager tan dress. Zan had never touched her in this manner.

“ I don’t quite know wwwhat you mean.” She finally stuttered out.

Zan’s eyes seemed so calm to her so loving but what did he want her to say? Did he want her to say what she really felt? That she was going to die without him in her life. That everyday he was gone would feel like an eternity? What good would that do? How could it change who she was? It couldn’t so why bother with the truth?

“ What if I said yes prince Zan?”

His strong hand still wrapped around her tiny wrist “ Say yes and find out Nadia.”

Zan could hardly contain the emotions that were overcoming him. His hands seemed less steady and his legs felt weak. He had never realized how much he truly cared for Nadia until that moment. He wanted more than anything to stay on Antar with her and to forget about Max, Kivar, his throne, Earth and his mission. At that moment nothing else mattered to Zan, nothing but the way Nadia felt as he held her arm.

Nadia’s eyes gave away her emotions. They told the truth. She could not lie to Zan, more so she would not lie to him.

“ Yes Zan I will miss you.” Her lips trembled.

In that instant Zan wrapped her into his arms pulling her into his chest. His body trembled with excitement as did hers. Leaning her head back just enough to expose her beautiful and warm skin he looked deep into her eyes. His breathing intense and erratic he quickly pressed his lips to hers. Then the connection was made. It was fast and furious. The pain of not having his real father exposed, the hatred for his mother, the longing for Nadia, and the fear of going to Earth. The anxiety of becoming a king and wanting to do a better job than Kivar or Max did.

He saw Nadia as a child and felt the loss of her mother. He also felt the pride that Nadia had in her people, their beliefs and the hope that someday Max would free them. Then unexpectedly he felt the undying love for him.

The door to Zan’s room flew open as Kivar stormed in. The site before Kivar enraged him. Zan quickly pulled away from Nadia breaking the connection knowing that she would be killed for this manner of behavior.

“Zan. What are you doing?” Kivar demanded.

Grabbing Nadia by her bicep he began to drag her out of the room. “ Downstairs NOW Zan.” He bellowed as he drug her down the hallway.

“Father No…. It was my fault. I take full blame for my behavior. She knows better than to disobey me.”

“ You know the laws Zan. You of all people know the laws on Antar are put in place to make this a better world. You made a mistake now you have to pay for it.” Kivar shouted.

“ Father I understand the laws. I just feel that it is going to be difficult to replace the slave. No one knows the workings of this palace and my daily habits better than this one. I wanted to kiss a woman before I left. I am sorry. It will not happen again. No one has to know.” Zan pleaded as he followed his father intently down the hall.

Kivar stopped in the middle of the hall and stared down at Nadia as did Zan. Her eyes were filled with tears and her entire body was trembling. Her hair once pulled back was flaying wildly across her face.

Hesitantly Kivar dropped her arm from his grip leaving Nadia lying on the floor.

“ This once Zan, ONCE” He screamed. “ If this happens again I will put her on public display and let the masses stone her to death. Do I make myself clear?” Kivar screamed once again.

“ Yes father.” Zan quietly replied.

“Good. Get out of my site.” He motioned to Nadia. “ Zan you have 20 min before you leave. I suggest you get your belongings you want to take with you. The rest of the Earth clothes and supplies are already in the ship. 20 min. Zan.”

His heart still racing he watched Nadia dart down the hallway to her room next to his own. As soon as Kivar was out of site he went to his room. Pushing on the wall a hidden door opened gradually.

“Nadia?” Zan whispered. “Nadia?” he repeated.

Her eyes still filled with tears she sat up from her bed and turned to face him.

“Leave me alone Zan.” She cried.

Zan moved toward her placing his hand on her shoulder. “ Are you ok? Did he hurt you?”

“ Other than almost being put to death I am fine.” She muttered.

“ I am sorry Nadia, I should have never.”

Unexpectedly she cut him off. “No Zan. Please don’t say you are sorry. You have nothing to be sorry for. I have wanted you to take me in your arms more times than I can count. The laws your father has put in place are cruel and inhumane.”

Nadia’s could not hold it in anymore. She knew she was right about Zan now. Her eyes flickered with a sign of hope as she wiped her tears.

“ I ask only one thing from you Zan. Find your father find Max. Do not go through with your mission he is the only one who can save us. Trust him he is a noble man and loves you. He has searched many years for you. My mother died trying to get information to him to help find you please don’t let her death be in vain.”

He wanted so desperately to take her with him but after Kivar finding them together he knew that would be impossible. He longed to hold her again to feel the warmth of her lips and the gentle caress of her fingers against his skin.

“ Nadia you are asking me to betray my family. To betray my race.” He insisted.

“  You are not Kivar’s child nor do you belong to his race. As I said you are part human.” her eyes searching for anger but finding none.

Nadia’s lips unexpectedly found his once more. The intensity was almost excruciating then she reluctantly pulled away “ Find him, trust him.” She whispered.

He nodded slightly to please her. Then turned and walked back through the door. His eyes never left hers until the door was shut tightly. His confusion was massive and weighed even heavier on his shoulders than ever before.

**********************************************************************

As Liz stepped from the Jeep Max felt the churning in his stomach that he had felt from the moment he laid eyes on Liz so many years ago. She was still just as beautiful as the day they were married. Her hair quite the same as it had been when she was young only now blonde highlights covered the gray. Even after the twins her body was still perfect. She was still very thin and petite.

Liz’s sunglasses masked her eyes like a shield trying to hide her red eyes. She had cried most of the day fighting with her emotions. This was a hard task for her. She had spent years helping Max try to find Zan until she could not take the disappointment anymore. The last 5 years she had mostly stayed at home to keep an eye on her twin teenagers while Max searched endlessly for a way to get back to Antar to find his son. She was tired of Kivar’s men doing their best to kill her husband. However she was glad that at each attempt they failed. She knew that someday Max would die by the hands of Kivar. She hoped today would not be that day. She feared the worst when Max got word via the alien cell phone (a large 300 lb. Woman) that Zan had been found and under secrecy he would meet with Max today in the desert.

Over the years Max found new powers and they had all increased in intensity but with age they had seemed to die out some. A battle with a younger alien could prove to be disastrous. Liz knew this and so did Max this was one of the main reasons to assemble the entire gang. If they were prepared for a surprise then they could at least fight it together and have a better chance of survival.

As he neared her she was reminded of the night he came to her from the future 20 years ago. He looked very similar to that Max. She thought of the dance they shared and how she feared that night was going to be the last time her and Max would ever share that type of emotion. She was glad she was wrong for she loved Max just as much now as she did then.

Max met Liz half way between the Jeep and the cliff. He wanted a moment alone with her. A moment to tell her how ecstatic he was that she had decided to come.

“Liz, you came.” His voice cracked a bit under pressure.

Reaching her arms around his shoulders “ I wanted to be with you. I have been with you for 20 years Max how could I miss one of the most important days of your life.”

“ Where are the kids?” Max questioned.

“ Kayla is working at the crashdown and Seth is studying upstairs with Jake and Leah.” Liz replied.

“ They knew where you were going.” Max implied.

“ Yes and they were not real pleased that they were told they were not to be here. I really don’t understand either Max.” Liz blurted. “ They are powerful. There is a chance we may need them here.”  As her eyes drifted for a strong hold incase they were attacked.

Max’s body tensed in her arms. “ Liz you know why they can’t be here. If this is a trap they risk the chance of being killed or taken back to Antar.”

“ Max we risk the chance of leaving our children without parents on Earth and alone.” Liz insisted. “ Max what did you feel like? You know what it was like for you, no one here to explain and understand who or what you were and what you Isabel and Michael were going through. Furthermore they stand the chance of being killed or taken back to Antar if we are killed.”

Max knew she was right his eyes showed it. Over the years Liz could not only tell, but she began to feel everything he was feeling without a touch or even a glance. At times Max would only have to be in the other room. She knew his heart ached for this moment and that he assumed he was prepared. She also knew at this moment he knew he was wrong to leave the children out of it.

“ We don’t have time to get them. It is only a half hour or so before he is supposed to arrive.” Max reluctantly chimed in.

“ They will know Max. They will feel it. They are most likely on their way here now. You know how Kayla and Seth get about the subject” Trying diligently to comfort Max.

“ Yeah Kayla locks herself in her room and Seth is ready to pull out a full scale assault.”  Max replied as he began to roll his eyes mocking Kayla. “ She reminds me of Isabel often.”

Michael approaching hesitantly taps Max on the shoulder. Clearing his throat “ Uhhh. Max? Are you planning on making more children while we are out here or are we going to get a plan down?”

The rest of the group stood intently working out a plan on the other side of Jim’s SUV. Each of them understood their part in battle. Each of them had something different to add to the mission at hand. They had prepared for this day for 20 years. For the day they would have to fight Kivar for the love of Zan.

Seth’s foot was planted firmly on the gas pedal of the Jeep. Liz always insisted that Seth nor Kayla would have a Jeep like their father’s but Seth being the hard head he was and Max being the softy that he was, well Seth ended up with a Jeep.

Seth’s Mind was dead set on being at the forefront of any battle his father waged. Kayla sat quietly in the passenger seat watching the tumbleweeds pass every second or so her brown hair whipped around her face hiding the anger prevalent. She looked just like Liz or at least that is what Seth always said. That not only did she look like mom but acted just like her too. Too cautious, too smart, and boring.

 Leah and Jake took up the rear each of them were always up for something exciting and dangerous to do. Leah most of all wanted to prove herself as a bad ass. She wanted to prove she was as powerful if not more so than the rest of the children. Maybe it was because her mother tried so hard to prove herself that she felt she must to the same.

“Seth, do you really think this is a good idea?” her dark brown eyes filled with apprehension.

“ What do you mean Kayla? Yes this is a good idea. That is our father out there. He could be in danger. With all that has happened since we were born do you really think that Zan is just going to come to home?” shooting Kayla a harsh glance. “ Do you really think that this Kivar will just not notice that he is gone? For that matter do you trust this Zan guy?”

Seth turned his attention back to the road ahead of them. There he could see the large rock formation jutting out into the desert sky. The wind beat against his tan skin rather harshly today and made his eyes burn. The closer he came to the open desert the more he felt like he was entering his own tomb. He believed in his father though. When his mother gave up on the search and the war his father waged he took her place. He went with his father many times to collect information from would be informants. He was there just to watch his fathers back as he called it. He knew he was more powerful than his father but would never allow him to believe it

Seth’s heart was a good one. He was sensitive to the needs of those around him. He was gracious to those who helped him and he above all loved his family. He was an ace in Science and actually knew how to cook yet he possessed an element of loneliness. He longed for someone to love. For years he like his father sat in the back ground watching those around him fall in love. Dating should not have been a problem for Seth. He was 6 feet and 2 inches of absolute hunk. His dark skin, eyes, and hair were something out of a fairytale. His body was firm and trim. His features as his sisters took after their mother but his personality was all Max. He thought for sometime that he and Leah would someday be together but she was just not the type of girl he wanted. She was a beautiful girl, long blonde hair, green eyes that were as shimmering as an emerald, her build was strong but petite and she was always quick to turn a phrase. She possessed the Valenti features in almost all aspects but she was as wild as an unbroken horse.

The dust flew wildly around the jeep as they hit the desert floor. Leah did her best to steady herself and Jake did his best to keep his deep blue eyes off of Kayla and the dust out of his dark blonde hair. Jake had been in love with Kayla since they were children. However, like her aunt Isabel she kept him at bay. She cared a great deal for him but wanted to explore the world before settling down with just one guy. Jake knew this and gave her the room she needed. It was challenging for Kayla to put him off. His body was firmed and toned from the 4 years on the Roswell wrestling team, he was tall, handsome and a quick talker. Jake also had a way of being a real smart ass to just about everyone. He had Michael and Maria written all over each remark.

Jakes eyes drifted gradually from Kayla toward the sky. His mouth dropped open slightly “Seth, look.” He pointed upward.

Seth’s heart began to throb in his ears and his palms began to sweat. The sky above them seemed to be growing increasingly darker. The gloomy black clouds were moving in at a frightening rate. The once brilliant sky was turning into what looked like an inferno of storm clouds. Seth felt a cold rush of energy flow over his body.

“ It’s him.” Seth whispered. “ Can you feel the power, the energy?”

Seth pulled the jeep to a stop in the middle of the desert. The wind was picking up considerably. Leah stood in the back of the jeep. She could feel him as well. She could feel the intensity that was radiating from his being.

Her long blonde hair flayed wildly in the wind as she slowly lifted her hand toward the sky. Spreading her fingers she exposed her palm as if waving. She closed her eyes and began to concentrate. A flash of light slammed into her mind. She tried hard to make contact with his mind however he was apparently not close enough yet but she felt him and his power. It seemed familiar somehow.

Her breathing intense as she opened her eyes “ He is not here yet but Seth he is strong. I mean really strong.”

“ Nothing we can’t handle.” his eyes drifted toward Jake. Lifting their hands Jake and Seth reassured themselves with a high five.

“ Have you two ever stopped to think that Zan could quite possibly be a nice guy who has just been dealt a bad hand of cards?” Kayla questioned. “ The guy has had to deal with a bitch for a mother and god knows what for a father. I mean couldn’t we try to give him

The benefit of the doubt?” she added in.

“ Are you insane Kayla?” asked Leah. “Kivar has tried for years to kill your dad and not to mention my parents as well. Do you really believe that he would let your dad have this moment to rejoice in without getting something out of it?” her voice callous.

“ Alright, alright Leah I think that Kayla gets the point. We all have reservations about this meeting. Kayla is just trying to look on the bright side. So in essence sit down and shut up” Said Jake trying his best to take up for Kayla.

“ Did I ask anything from your mouth Jake?” Leah questioned.

“ No but does that matter any other time?” He laughed.

Shoving him slightly she sat down so Seth could resume the course toward the pod chambers. “ All I have to say is they are going to need help if his intentions are to do harm.” Leah always had to get in the last word.

Zan’s eyes studied the beauty of his planet. He would miss Antar very much. He would miss his family, friends, and now Nadia. Was it worth it he kept asking himself? Was the throne worth the death of a man he did not know? A man who was supposed to have been his father? His friend? A man that so many people depended on.

Kivar followed him to the craft that would in just a few min. alter his life forever. “ You know what must be done for you to return to us do you not?” Kivar inquired.

“Yes father I must kill Max Evans.” Zan replied.

“ Do not let me down or you will regret it!” Kivar boasted.

Zan took in a deep breath of Antarian air to fill his lungs. He wanted to remember how the deeply refreshing air felt inside him. He would soon have to adjust to the air on Earth. His lungs had been genetically engineered while still in the womb on Antar. He knew they could handle either atmosphere but he was not sure if the oxygen would feel as gratifying as the smooth flowing air on Antar. He would miss the tantalizing smell of the spice mines and the abundant smell of cackdi flowers that other planets in the galaxy were unable to grow.

The Cackdi were the largest export on Antar. Thousands of the flowers were picked, processed and sold a day. The flowers were almost the soul reason that Antar was the one of the most profitable planets in any galaxy. The Cackdi were beautiful but their pollen was the most desired element of the flower. The pollen was processed into a medication that eased the shakes from space travel. The shakes occurred during space travel when the brain was deprived of the oxygen it was accustomed to. Many traders, shippers, and scientists required the Cackdi drug. Not only was it used as a medication it was used as what humans would call a narcotic when not in space and Kivar wanted it to stay that way. Kivar of all inhabitants on the planet profited most from the sales of the flowers.

The clouds were dark and looming. The atmosphere became very thick as Kivar held his hand outward. The large bluish purple clouds hovering over them began to gather forming the portal that would take Zan to meet his destiny. To increase the power Kivar lifted his other hand. Lightning shot outward from the clouds as the wind blew Zan’s hair from side to side. “Go my son. Make Antar proud. Make me proud.”

“ I will father.” his eyes intent to please Kivar.

Kivar waved his hand over the door allowing it to disappear for Zan to step in. He then turned to face Kivar from inside the ship. His deep soulful eyes showed his uncertainty of the journey that lied ahead of him. Until this moment he did not realize the importance of the mission that he was to embark on nor the severity. With a swipe of his hand the door reappeared and Kivar was no longer in site. He felt a sense of relief for some reason.

He knew each control quite well. He had spent many hours as a child learning to fly the 425 Prelude. The technology was more sophisticated than any craft that had been made for long distance travel. It could sustain life for more than 10 years if needed, the speed was unmatchable in 10 galaxies and it took only his powers to navigate it. Most importantly Earth technology could not pick it up on radar.

Zan sat at the helm of the small ship. He placed his hand over the control panel and the buttons began to light in unison. He concentrated to connect with the ship. It was almost effortless for him. The engines kicked in immediately. He sensed Nadia at that moment and his heart cried out to stay but he knew it was too late. The ship lifted from the platform and he mentally guided it toward the large funnel opening. He took a deep breath and with a flash of light the ship disappeared into the formation.

As the ship entered the funnel Zan could see thousands of stars and planets fly past him. He saw many galaxies and large nebulas that were amazing. He felt a connection with the space around him and a sense of peace and serenity. Then as if a bolt of lightning hit him he felt a rush of images a young girl reaching out over space searching for him. He refused to let her feel him. He blocked his mind from returning the connection. He was unsure who this girl was but he knew she was powerful. He could see her face in his mind. She was a very striking young woman. She reminded him of his mother when he was a child long blonde hair, deep green eyes and an unbreakable spirit. Then the image was gone.

The rain fell slowly at first then picked up, as did the wind. Max held Liz close to him wanting to make sure she was safe. Michael, Isabel and Sarena stood behind Max and Liz as if they were imperial guards. Maria, Kyle, Alex and Jim fell in behind them. All of their energy would be needed and needed close by if a force field was called for. Max would be unable to hold off an entire brigade of Kivar’s soldiers with only his powers.

The clouds began to gather into a funnel shape in front of them. The wind whipped hard around their bodies. Just then a large bolt of lightning slammed down from the funnel in front of Max knocking him and Liz into the family behind them.

“This is it!” Michael yelled loudly as he jumped back to his feet wiping his hand across his face. “ Put up the field Max. They have us right where they want us. Dam it Max!”

Liz began to scramble to her feet when Max wrapped his arm around her waist picking her up from the ground. “Max, Max.” she whimpered. “ Where are we?” she shook her head from side to side as Max and the others moved back quickly from the funnel forming in front of them.

 “Maria take her, hurry!” Max yelled frantically. Maria grabbed Liz’s half limp body from Max dragging her behind the SUV. “ Talk to me Liz, are you hurt?” Maria questioned as she searched her for injuries but finding none.

“Max, where’s Max? I can’t leave him? Max?” She screamed loudly as she tried to get up but only to fall against the SUV.

Kyle, Alex, Sarena, Isabel and Michael jumped to their feet behind Max. Holding his hand outward the green haze of the force field became prevalent as he began drawing his powers from the energy around him. Michael, Isabel, and Sarena took their place next to him to enforce the field as Jim, Kyle and Alex readied the weapons.

“It’s been nice knowing you Maxwell!” exclaimed Michael over the raging winds.

Max’s eyes showed his fear and uncertainty of what lie ahead of them “ Don’t give up on me now Michael. We haven’t lost yet.” He rebutted as the sand from the desert slammed endlessly into the force field.

From the distance Seth could see the green haze of his father’s force field. “ There in trouble.” He insisted as he stepped on the gas.

Leah holding her hand outward in the back of the jeep tried to get a sense of what lie ahead of them. The anger and fear was too much for her to handle. She broke the connection.

Tears began to form in Kayla’s eyes “ Hurry Seth mom is hurt I know it. I can feel it. Hurry!” She cried louder.

Jake’s anger was overwhelming him. He could feel a surge of energy building up in him. Jake was ready to fight for his family.

Seth slammed on the breaks behind the land rover. Jake jumped out before the jeep had grinded to a halt darting in behind Max, Isabel, Sarena and his father. Michael glared at him with a look of disapproval. “ Not this time.” Jake demanded. “I will not go home I will not let my family die at the hands of Kivar.”

Michael understood his son’s determination because he had inherited it from him. “ Just stay behind me Jake.” Michael demanded.

Seth, Kayla, and Leah ran in the direction of the force field. “Leah cried out  “get in place now!”

Jake knew what she meant. He moved out to his right shoving Alex out of his way. Seth ran in behind his father, Kayla took her place to the left of Jake and Leah directly in behind Seth. Each held their hands outward palms up. The small green hazed force field began to grow turning into a vivid array of colors. The field grew large enough to cover not only them but extended wide enough to cover Maria and Liz as well.

Another bolt of lightning hit the ground directly in front of Max only this time the effects were not felt. Max shielded his eyes from light created from the bolt. As he looked back toward the funnel it was gone only the bright blue sky with the clouds that reminded him of cotton candy remained. Blinking his eyes as if he were unable to trust what he was seeing he looked again. A medium size ship sat motionless in front of them.

Unsure where the immense bolts of lightning had come from he called to Seth “Don’t let the field down.”

Michael, Isabel and Serena moved to each side of Max waiting for some kind of sign if the ship were friend or foe. Isabel’s ran her hand across the force field the children had created. The vivid colors were remarkable. She could barely believe what her minds eye was seeing. Michael too was astonished with the power the children possessed. He was never aware they were this powerful.

“ So did you guys plan on letting us in on your new powers anytime soon?” Michael questioned.

Seth with his eyes closed stood silently as did the rest of the children. The air inside the field swirled around each of them. The glowing colors of the field seemed to be radiating from each of the children it seemed almost effortless for them.

The door to the ship disappeared before their eyes revealing a very young and attractive man. Max’s weathered hands began to tremble. His eyes must be deceiving him. This could not be his mind called out to him. He turned to search for Liz. He didn’t have to look far she was only a few feet away from him walking slowly with Maria’s help.

“Liz?” his voice crackled out.

Liz was paying little attention to Max at this point her eyes were focused on the young man who was stepping out of the ship. The resemblance was remarkable there was no denying this was Max’s child. He was identical to Max. His dark brown hair and soulful eyes were indistinguishable from Max’s when he was young. Leaning on Max’s shoulder she steadied her self  “ I, I cant believe this.” she muttered.

Max felt as if he were staring through a window to the past as Zan moved toward the group. He could hardly acknowledge that another being could look so much like him. Out of the aliens he was the only one who had never come face to face with his duplicate years ago.

Zan walked hesitantly toward the force field. He was unsure what to expect from the beings that it held. He knew immediately which man was his father. It was unmistakable. Zan was only 30 feet away when he heard a voice call out to him.

“ Are you alone?” Max called out.

Zan broke his stride and looked intently into the eyes of his father “ Yes I am alone.” He said stoutly.

Maria walked over to Michael sliding her arm around his waist “ I don’t know about this Michael. He looks too much like Max. Could it be like with Lonnie and Rath?”

Pulling Maria inwardly he moved swiftly toward Max. “ I don’t trust this Max. This has to be some kind of trick by Kivar. Don’t trust him.”

He was way ahead of Michael at this point. He had no intentions of letting his guard down. “ Just keep your eyes open. We don’t want any surprises.” Max muttered.

After a few moments of silence Zan began to move toward them once again. Standing only a few inches in front of the force field he began to speak. “ I am Zan of Antar. I can only assume that you are Max Evans.”

“ Yes I am.” Max said. He could hardly contain the joy that was overwhelming him at that moment. His son. His firstborn son was only inches away from him. The only thing that was separating Max from holding him in his arms was the force field. Wanting so badly to embrace his son he bellowed out to Seth “ Lower the field Seth.”

Seth’s eyes popped open abruptly “ What?” he exclaimed. “ You can’t be serious Dad. This is a trick!”

Zan’s eyes moved in the direction of the voice “ Your son is smart Max but he has nothing fear from me. I have journeyed here by my own accord and in secrecy. I would be killed if anyone on my planet knew I had come here.”

Seth’s eyes were filled with distrust. He in no way shape or form believe the man standing in front of his Mom and Dad could be his brother. He could not feel it. “Kayla he called out. “ Do you feel him?” he questioned.

Kayla’s eyes were already fixated on Zan. “ No, No Seth I, I, don’t.”

The force field then dropped unexpectedly. Nothing was separating Max from his son. Nothing was separating them from the alien before them.

“I feel him.” Leah announced as she began to walk toward Zan. She had severed the connection between the four of them letting the field fall.

“ What the hell are you doing Leah?” Jake cried out angrily. “ How could you betray your family and put them at risk?” he added in.

“ He is our family Jake. Can’t you feel him?” Leah questioned

Kyle jumped into action. Pulling his revolver from his side. Grabbing Leah by her arm “No He is not family Leah. We know nothing about him.”

Sarena walked to Kyle’s side. “ Kyle calm down. Give her a chance. If she can feel something we can’t we have to give her an opportunity to explain.” Serena’s deep green eyes begged for him to let go of Leah.

At that moment Zan realized this was the girl, the girl who had tried to make contact with him during his trip here. “ Do I know you girl?” Zan questioned.

The group stood silent waiting for Leah to answer. Her answer came quietly “ No but I know you. I have felt you my whole life. I never knew it until now. I have felt you since the day I was born.” Tears began to roll down Leah’s supple face. Leah very rarely cried but when she did everyone knew it was serious.

Kyle and Serena were taken back with the connection she had with Zan. Leah was always such an independent spirit. She had never expressed feelings of loneliness or that she needed anyone. Leah looked as if she needed Zan as if she could fall in his arms and spend the rest of her life there. But the look was not that of passion or lust but that of a pure love.

“ You look just like her.” Zan said.

“ Like who” Liz asked. She was beginning to put two and two together. Liz was always quick with a solution to problems and this was coming together steadily in her mind.

“ Like.” Zan was unable to finish.

“ Like Tess.” Liz answered staring at Serena.

“ Yes like my mother.” Zan said.

Liz pulled slightly back from Max’s embrace. “Leah feels him because they come from the same genes. She feels him because he is her brother. I mean think about it. You and Tess were genetically engineered Serena. You have the same make up the same genes. A child born of Tess would be no different than a child, pointing at Leah, born of you.”

Serena gasped loudly as she placed her hand over her mouth. Tears began to roll down her face. She had no idea and had never thought of the genetic connection between her and Tess being a factor with Zan. She never pondered that genetically this was her son as well.

“ I was only with my mother for two years. The atmosphere on Antar was rather hostile to her. This was unexpected since her genetic engineering was supposed to have been ideal to my lung genetics. My lungs were genetically engineered during gestation so I would be allowed to breath in both Earth’s and Antar’s atmosphere. Her human genetics could not sustain life on Antar. My father refused to do anything for her. She was still in love with you, looking at Max, so he sent her as far away as he could. He did not want her human habits to affect the way I ruled Antar.”

“ I am sorry Zan.” Max said. His eyes filled with tears. “ I am sorry I couldn’t stop her. I am sorry that I brought you into this world of war and hate.” Shuffling his weight from one foot to the other “ I can’t change what happened between your mother and I. I can’t change who she was or what she did but I can help you to understand the truth.”

Max had wanted this moment from the day that Tess left Earth. She took his son, she took his flesh and blood and he hated her for that. He hated her each time that Kayla and Seth took their first steps and when they spoke their first word for he knew he had missed that with Zan. He hated her most when the children were scared of the dark. He wanted to tell them there was nothing to fear of the dark but he knew she was out there. Then his mind flashed back to the day she left and his heart screamed for revenge. An image of her touching the granolith and being transported inside slinked into his mind. “ Stop!” Max cried out as he shook his head vigorously. His eyes focused back on Zan “ I am sorry it has been very hard for me to deal with. I do not think I will ever forgive her.”

Liz could feel the pain radiating from Max she could feel his anger for Kivar and Tess. She could fee the thoughts of betrayal from Nasedo. She knew that Max would never forgive any of them for what they had put his family here on Earth though and what he only imagined that Zan had gone through. However she could not feel the connection between Max and Zan. She could feel the love Max had for him but not a true connection. Not like the connection with Leah. Liz found this to be odd but all of the emotions around her were a bit overwhelming.

Alex and Kyle began to pack away the armory they had drug from the SUV when they noticed Jim walking toward Zan. Jim was slow moving but they knew where he was headed. He walked up to Max placing his hand on his right shoulder. Max’s soulful, tired eyes met his quickly “ Welcome your son home Max. It has been a long time coming.” He wrapped Liz and Max in his arms. “If I died today I would die a happy man. Welcome home Zan.” He added, his eyes just as blue as the ocean, began to tear up.

Jim had spent many years helping Max. He had become as close to Max as he had his own son. This was a day that had been a dream in Jim’s mind for years. He was sure it would stay that way until this moment.

“ Yes Max you should welcome Zan home.” Liz interrupted. Her voice was rather harsh and demanding.

Max stared deep into the eyes of the young man before him. “ Welcome home son. I have waited a lifetime for this day.” He said holding his arms outward.

Zan could see by the look on his face that Max was ready to accept him and was ready to love him. Reluctantly he embraced his biological father for the first time. With that one embrace all fears and hate were erased from Zan’s heart. The flash came quickly. Max and Isabel as children being taken in by the Evans, the games and fun that they had as children, the fear and love he felt for Liz the day he saved her, the confusion of loving Tess, the battles that Max had fought for years trying to find his place in the world and to find his son. Zan did not allow the connection to go in reverse. He was not ready to show himself to his father. He was not ready to give up the horrible secret that he held so deeply, the secret that he was to kill him.

Feeling Zan’s barrier Max spoke quietly “ In time son, in time. I understand but I wanted you to feel me.” His arms still wrapped tightly around the child he was unable to be with.

Liz’s tears could not be held in. Alex as always was right beside her in a moments notice. Taking Liz in his arms “ We have waited a long time Liz.”

“ Yeah Alex we have.” She sniffled. “ I just hope we don’t regret it.”

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