GET CAUGHT DAY DREAMING...

 
made by: Sally <3

Title: Earth No More

Disclaimer:I owe nothing of Roswell, just take inspiration from it!

Author: Erica aka POM aka POM_DAYDREAMER

BETA: JESSICA <--- LUV U

Rating:Mature

Summary: Two royals betrothed, a planet lost it's hope, and family tries it's best to overcome evil. [ I suck at summaries..if you read the Parings, it gives you a bit more background information--if that dosen't help then just read and follow along! ]

Couple Pairing:

**Max & Liz- Betrothed. Born in two different worlds,Max King of Antar and Elizabeth Scarlett-Rose Whitman Princess of Earth. What will they think when the meet eachother for the first time? TRU LUV

**Tess & Kyle [Kyle is Maxwells assistant]--Married for 4 years, and have more secrets that you can possibly imagine! Good or Bad? Read to find out!

**Michael is Maxwells second in command and is a bit of a Ladies Man~well that is untill he sees Ava-Maria, it's almost as if his world has been turned upside down--He doesn't know what has come over him, the thing is will he act on it or not.

**Isabel is Michaels cousin and Tess childhood friend, she comes to live with them in the palace after a divorce from her husband leaves her with nothing. She always gets what she wants when she wants it. Since Alexx came to Antar she's had an eye on him.

Sibling Pairing:

** Maxwell and Tess: are Brother and sister
** Michael and Isabel: are 2nd cousins
**Elizabeth, Alexxander, aand Ava-Maria: are Triplets [oldest to youngest Listed]

Chapter one: The Beginings

[ELIZABETH POV ]

April 14th, 4321 A.D.

"Alexxander should we tell the children? I mean this war is never going to end! Mars has already threatened us already...now they’re going to terminate the world...we should really tell them. They have a right to know!" the Queen (our mother) cried out at her husband. He shook his head with sorrow and guilt deep within his eyes.

"It's better if we just tell Liz about the arranged marriage and send them all to Antar where I know they will be safe. Earth is not safe anymore. Scarlett, it's better that they don't know too much information now. I know that Maxwell will know what to do. I mean if we can't fight this war maybe he can. That’s why we have this arranged marriage between Antar and Earth.

Promise not to say anything love! Scarlett, they will find out in good time what really happened, and they will understand!" he told her. She looked down at her hands and nodded.

"I'll go get the children!" he motions towards the door to hear Ava-Maria & Alexxander Jr. going at it again. He let out a sigh and shook his head before leaving the den to leave Scarlett to her thoughts.

"Maria...Will you give me back my 'Ivy' CD?? C'mon you've had it for almost a week!" I yelled at the top of my lungs. Her door was always locked and her music was always blasting as loud as it could go. I started to bang on the door. It's the only way I could get in the room. Then Alexx came around the corner with his disc man in hand--singing a song that was familiar to me. I grabbed the disc man from him and opened it up. "Hey Liz! I was listening to that! Give it back!" he said as he tried to get it back out of my grasp.

"Where did you get this CD?" I asked him. "From Maria. She said I could borrow it!! Why?" he said. "Alex, this is my CD. You know that. You know I've been looking for it, why didn't you give it to me?" I asked Alex sternly. "Because, I'm not done listening to it—that’s why." Then he tried to reach for it again. The music shuts off in Maria’s room and the door opens. "What is all this racket?? You know it's not easy trying to study with the two of you fighting. What's wrong? C'mon you can tell your sister." she says calmly.

My attention turned towards her. How dare she? I've been knocking on her door for the past hour. "Why do you always get into my stuff and claim it yours?" I asked. That set everyone off and we all started to yell and fight. "Children…Children!!" was all we heard. Then we all stopped and turned around to stare at our father. "Who started it this time?" he asked. Alex pointed at me, I pointed at Maria, and Maria pointed at Alex. "Right...well, we need to talk to all of you. 'We' meaning your mother and myself." he said at ease. "All of us?" Maria said.

"Yes 'Ria. All of you." he said again. And with that my father turned around and started to walk away. When he noticed that nobody was following him, he sighed and turned around slightly and gave us that look that said he was not kidding. We all started to walk with him to the study where Mother was at. "Maria…see what you did. You got us in trouble. Nice going." Alex whispered angrily.

"Children, I assure you that nobody is in trouble." And with that we quieted down for the rest of the way to our destination. Our Father was a kind and gentle King. He wanted many things from his people: Freedom, Peace, changes for the better and good! But maybe now that I think about it, it was too much change too fast! "Your Mother and I have decided for your 21st Birthdays that are coming up in a few months that we are going to give you your presents early and send you all to the planet Antar for vacation for 2 months! Now what do you think about that?"

We all screamed with excitement. We've always wanted to go travel to other planets but our parents would never let us, saying we had to set an example for the world with being royalty and all. "We are happy you guys like your present. Well you'd better go pack, you’re scheduled to leave this afternoon!" Alexx and Maria ran out of the room first and I walked behind them until my parents called my name.

"Elizabeth, can you come here for a second?" I shrugged and walked back towards them. "Elizabeth, there’s something we have to tell you. You'd better sit down." So I did. "Liz, you’re the first born child--there was an agreement made before you were even born. Before we even knew we were going to have triplets but there is a responsibility required of you and only you in being the first born of the royal family." My father said steadily. "What is it?" I asked. "Elizabeth, you’re betrothed to Maxwell Evans the King of Antar. On the evening of your 21st birthday you are to marry." He said to me. I looked from my father to my mother and they both nodded their heads. "Does he know about this?" I asked them quietly.

"When his parents died...they told him. So yes, he does know. Elizabeth, he is a good man. He is only one year older than you are. The oracle said that you two are a match, you two are soulmates. You know that we would not send you to be with someone is awful and not your true love." Scarlett told her daughter. "Now sweetheart, do pack your belongings...you don't have that much time!" He said to me. I nodded and got up slowly and steadily walked to my room. "Alexxander, do you really think we are doing the right thing??" Scarlett asked her husband in doubt of their decision. "Scarlett, don't worry the less they know right now the better they will be...plus, by the time they get to Antar they will see the tape that we made to tell them what happened and what will happen next." He walked over to his wife to comfort her.

"Alexx? What are you bringing??" Ava-Maria screamed from the next room over. He screamed back, "Just about everything...You?" "The same!!" Maria exclaimed. "I'm bringing all my CDs...I can't live without my music for an hour!!! What do I have here...Bob Marley, The Killers, Sarah McLaughlin. Ewww... Moby...this must be Liz’s CD!!" Maria said with a disgusted face. She ran across the hallway and opened Lizzy’s door, and she saw Liz just sitting there like she was in daze. "Are you alright Elizabeth??" Maria asked her all of a sudden worried in her own unique way. "I'm getting married...Wh--when we get to Antar, I'm getting married to the King." I spat out almost in disbelief. "Mom & Dad told me that the one reasons why I'm going to Antar is that I'm to be wed upon the eve of my 21st Birthday." I told her. "But that's only three months away!! That doesn’t leave you much time to get to know each other. Is there anyway out of it??" she asked me. I shook my head no.

"They arranged it before we were even conceived...yet alone born." I told her. "How come I'm not in the same situation you’re in? I mean we are triplets..." She asked me eager to know. "Because I am the first born of the triplets. That's why!!" I told her. Ava-Maria didn't bother me with anymore of her questions. "Do you need some help packing??" she asked me. I shook my head and rejected her offer. "It's okay Maria, I got it. You go on ahead but thanks for the offer." I told her and gave her a hug. She walked back to her room, and I started to pack as fast as I could like my father told me to, making sure I didn't miss anything. It was the last time I'd be in my room, I took every keepsake I could bring with me. Things in my life would be different from today on. I will not be coming back to Earth for a very long time. “I am the future QUEEN of Antar, Wow, it sounds weird to actually say it aloud." I said to myself.

All of a sudden our father called out for us. "Children, are you ready?" he asked. We all came out of our rooms and took one last look around and started off to the space craft that we were all set to depart from.

Alexx and Ava-Maria gave our parents a hug and a kiss, Our Mother always cried if we went somewhere even if it was to school, but this time it was different for me. Only this was the last time I was going to be home. The last time I was to see my parents as just a 20 yr. old girl. The next time I see them I'll be a queen and a married woman.

Alexx and Ava-Maria loaded their stuff and went on the space craft and waited for me. "Elizabeth Scarlett-Rose Whitman, you do know that your Mother and I are very proud of you. You must know that by now." he said to me. I nodded my head and started to cry. "I'm going to miss you Mama & Daddy" I told them both. They started to cry as well. My dad handed me a video tape and said, "Give this to King Maxwell when you get there. They know you are coming...he'll be there to greet you on your safe arrival."

I nodded my head in reply since I couldn't get any words out. I hugged him and whispered in his ear, "I love you Daddy...always & forever. No matter what...I'm proud to be your daughter and proud to represent the planet Earth." He hugged me closer and tighter.

I turned to my mother and in which she took off the necklace that was around her neck and gave it to me. "Mother I can't take this. Grandmother gave this to you on your wedding day, it means the world to you!" I proclaimed to her. She did not take it back but simply said in return, "You mean the world to me and I would like for you have it!! You are the first born and you are getting married. It's only best for you to have it for now. Just until we can make it t---." she sighed in a deep breath then continued.

"Just until we can make it to Antar for the big wedding. Just think of it as something Old." She hugged me and kissed me on the cheek. She looked close to tears. Until my father barged in saying, "Well, we can't keep you all waiting any further. Don't forget to give those items to Maxwell and remember we love you all. We'll see you in a few months!!" He said to me as I boarded the space craft.

The engine started and took off within minutes. I glared out of the window to see my dad waving at us to see us off and our Mother crying her eyes out. I don't know but for some strange reason I knew in my gut that this was the last time we were going to see each other!! Like some awful news was awaiting us when we did actually get to Antar.

I looked out of the window until there was nothing to see anymore. I looked to the package that was in my hand and the necklace that was in the other and wondered what my life was going to be like from this day forward, I knew I had these instincts that I could feel about a situation but this time I just didn't know!! It would be 3 days until we would land...3 days until my life as a human princess was going to be over.

Meanwhile, back on Earth..."Alexxander, what do we do now?" Scarlett asked her husband in between sobs. "We wait it out. That’s all we can really do. Maxwell will know what to do after Earth is no more. He will defend us...he will defend our kids...he will defend Elizabeth!" He told her.

Scarlett just stood there sobbing and crying because they knew their time was running out. That Earth was losing and fast. That their kids were their only hope for Earth’s survival. Alexxander walked over to his wife to comfort her. "Our time is running out...in 2 days Earth will be No More." he replied sadly.

April 17th, 4321

It has been 3 days since we departed from Earth, I could see a V shape in the atmosphere...I knew that we were almost there to Antar. At least an hour and a half away to say the most. I didn't really know what to think of this Maxwell character. Will he be wonderful, charming, handsome, or will he be old, bitter, and fat! I didn't want my curiosity to get the best of me so I put it out of my mind the best that I could until I went back to sleep.

The next time that I would awake, we would be ready for re-entry. I quickly got up and got ready, trying to look my best for my future husband who was going to be greeting us personally.

I quickly woke up Alexx and 'Ria, which was not easy to say the least. We all had powers as everyone did. I could see the future, well sort of. I saw only what I wanted to see.

Ava-Maria could brainwash people. Having them to things for her without them even knowing about it. She used to have so much fun when we were younger, until my Mother told her to stop or else she was going to take it away. Alexx can do a little bit of both...he doesn’t use them though. He doesn’t like tempting fate like that.

With the wave of my hand over my face I changed my make-up, hair and outfit. I finally chose a purple and white summer dress with my hair down with lots of curls with a purple bow in my hair as well, with make-up to match.

Ava-Maria and Alexx were already dressed and ready to go. I put on my mother’s necklace, the one she gave me right before we left. I grabbed the video our father told me to give to King Maxwell, and headed to the door. We saw a black limousine and a young handsome man came out of the car, I wasn't attracted to him very much. I always expected that love at first sight sensation. But I had to make the best of it, since I was the oldest. My younger siblings made me get out of the spacecraft first.

I walked to him half ways, and took his hand and said, "My King, it is very nice to finally be meeting you!" I told him. "Oh no Miss, I am not the King...I am the King’s personal assistant and brother in-law." He replied quite casual. And then continued. "You see, he had been detained--he is in a very important meeting and tried to get out of it sooner but as you can see he did not make it!!" He smiled. "He does plan to greet you right away once we arrive. Shall we get going?" he asked us.

I grabbed on hold of the video tape so hard that my fingertips turned white, I was so scared. I didn't know what was going to happen next but I had a feeling that it was a bad one.

Within minutes we were all inside of the limo and heading toward the Palace, and the beginning and end of my life. We all pulled up to the Palace doors. Standing outside the doors went to the pavement of the steps to the very top of the ceiling. It was all so beautiful, the palace was placed at the very top of a mountain top...and overlooked the city of Antar, It almost looked as if he had the world at his feet.

I wondered if he liked being king, like being the one in charge all the time...never having anyone else to blame but himself! Kyle had a few of the Maids get and gather the luggage and walk into the palace ahead of us, Okay...just so you know my name is Kyle Harding, if you need anything...day or night I am your man.

Don't worry, I'm sure the Mrs. wouldn't mind." As we walked into the house, I gently and kindly pulled Mr. Harding aside and asked him. "I don't mean to be a bother...but I really need to talk to Mr. Evans before him meeting all of us, I'd like to see him in private to discuss a few things." I asked him.

He nodded and replied," No problem Miss Whitman. I don't see that as a problem in any way shape or form." He smiled in return. He motion for Alexx and 'Ria to stay where they were, and I followed him, He took me to what seemed like an office and told me to wait there for Sir Maxwell to come. He noted that he would be getting out of his meeting in a matter of minutes and this was the first place that he went afterwards.

While he took the others to settle down into their rooms, I awaited for my soon-to-be husband to arrive. I still clung in my hands the video tape. I got up and walked around the office and saw pictures of him and his family, when he was little, and of him receiving the throne.

I went to the window, I adored the view. Which seemed can easily be viewed for miles and miles upon end. When all of a sudden there was a voice that scared me to pieces. Not in a bad way, it was just that I thought I was alone and I jumped so high. I was so red from embarrassment that I tried to cover it up by replying, "Oh, yes...it is lovely isn't it?" I smiled to myself but I still didn't know who I was talking to. He asked me, "Who are you by the way? I don't like people snooping around in my room! You're not a reporter are you?" he asked. I smiled to myself and replied, "And if I was what are you going to do?" I said to him still looking out of the window.

He couldn't believe this woman. Does she know to whom she is speaking to? He replied to her, "I'd arrest you and have you put into jail for breaking and entering! Does that sound appealing to you??" he asked me. He also noted, "Do you want me to call?" I simply said in return, "No, that will not be necessary".

I turned around and stared him straight in the eyes, I felt weak in the knees and a tingling sensation going all throughout my body. I wanted to kiss him right then and there but I knew it would be improper of me and of my status. I tried my best to ignore my feelings and say this without falling down which I knew was going to be hard.

"You do not know who I am because I only just arrived. I come from Earth. I, myself, do not want to be here but I had no choice. My father, Alexxander C. Whitman, he told me to give this video tape to you personally. As for myself, I am Princess Elizabeth Scarlett-Rose Whitman and first to take the throne. I do not mean to be rude but I'd like to get settled. If you'd please be as kind as to tell me what exactly is on that tape once you've viewed it I would appreciate it.”

I turned and walked to the door, and Kyle was barely coming in. “Are you ready Miss Whitman?" he asked me. I nodded in return. Just as we were walking out, a young woman with blonde curly hair was walking in. I smiled at her and proceeded up the stairs and out of their sight.

"Hello Maxwell. Just curious… who was that woman that just walked out of here?" He stared at her with a blank gaze and finally the words came to his lips and he fought to get them out. "She’s my betrothed. She’s my--my wife." he almost said in disbelief. He ran to the doorway and watched her walk up the stairs after Kyle. I looked back over once more to Max and smiled and saw him smile back.

Max stared at the package in his hand, the one that I had just handed to him. He walked back into his study. "Tess, isn't there something you should be doing?" Max asked his sister. She replied, "Why do you ask brother?" He didn't say anything but just gave her a look for her to get out, and without another word, she was out the door.

Max took one look at the package and opened it. There was two digital tapes along with a note. saying,

Dear Sir Maxwell Evans,

I come to you with a desperate plea. Planet Mars has gone against their agreement with Earth as well as Antar. Please let my children view this video tape, it is mainly for them. My wife and I didn't want them to be endangered when they did strike. We didn't want to take that risk. The children do not know that when they arrive on Antar, Earth will be no more. We kindly appreciate you for taking them all in, when it is Elizabeth that you are marrying. Because she is the oldest, we'd like you to let her know first on her own so she can then tell her brother and sister. We both thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

King and Queen of Earth,

Alexxander Charles Whitman & Scarlett Rose Whitman

p.s. Take care of our little girl always.



He put down the letter and summoned for Kyle to get Liz, so she could hear the bad news. He was just upset that he was the one who was going to have to tell her. There was a knock on the door, "Come in." he replied.

"You wanted to see me, Your Highness?" I asked him.

He turned around in his chair and faced me. He looked serious...too serious. "Something is wrong isn't there, I can sense it. Maxwell, what is it? Stop stalling and tell me." I told him.

He didn't say anything, he just pushed a button and the screen came up and I heard my fathers voice--

"Elizabeth, if you are watching this video tape then I know that you've arrived at your future home of Antar safe and sound. I know why your wondering why this tape is in fact for you, when I told you last it was for Sir Maxwell." I looked at Max who was gazing out the window. "Well, there is something I have to tell you. Something that is very important--We love you so much that we sent you to a far distant world to in fact save your life as well as your brother and sister. I know that we promised to meet you all over there in a few months but I'm afraid we can't. We can't because in a matter of days, Earth will be destroyed." I started to shake my head. I felt tears streaming down my face, my cheeks growing hot and flushed.
"Lizzy, I know this is really sudden but you have to be strong for everyone and for yourself as well. We didn't use your upcoming wedding as an excuse but as an escape and safety reason. We want you have a full and happy life, and we knew if you all stayed here...that would not happen. Don't worry, no one knew about this. Maxwell didn't know anything about this."
I looked over to him and he slightly turned and gave me a supporting smile, I looked down to the desk and saw a written letter on my father’s stationary, so I knew that my father was telling the truth. "Elizabeth, I know that you are scared...but you're a very strong person and I know you will find you way past this. Just remember we will always love you, Alexxander and Ava-Maria. More than you'll ever know and we will be watching you all from above."

The tape cut off, and the screen flashed off and that was that. I could hear Maxwell say something to me but it didn't trigger with my mind.

I felt hot and clammy, the room started to spin. I could feel myself hit the floor, and everything went black. "Liz, Liz...are you alright?" I could hear someone say, but I didn't know who...I just blacked out.

The next thing I knew I was in a luxurious bed, with gold embossing. I looked to my right and Max was sitting right there reading a book. He looked up and smiled and walked over to me.

"Are you alright?" He asked. "You’re still a little warm, you should lie down some more." he gently told me. "Max, I don't want to face my siblings right now--I'm still in a state of shock. I'd rather tell them the bad news when I don't feel like bursting out in tears!" and right when I said that I did burst into tears. I covered my face with my hands and just cried.

Max leaned over and pulled me to him. He gently tried to calm me down. It was nice having someone there for me, even when I wasn't looking my best. "You don't have to do this, Max. Don't you have more important things to do?" I asked him as I gently pulled away from his embrace.

"I mean you don't even know me." I told him. I looked up into his soulful eyes, and it was like I knew him from before. I knew this was where I was supposed to be. I'd lost my parents but gained a husband. I reached up and kissed him. Things grew so intense that...I won’t go into detail but it was over before it began.

"Do you think we should've waited for the actual wedding night?" I asked him. We both laughed, and started to go at it again. We stayed in bed all day. I didn't want to see anyone...anyone but him. I knew I had to tell Alexx and Ava-Maria but I didn't want to do it today. I cuddled up next to him, and I was thankful for everything...everything except that Earth was no more.

MAXWELL POV

_____________________________________________________________

I looked into her eyes, and saw everything I ever wanted and much more. "Liz, I know that this time can be hard for you and your family. I want you to know that I will get revenge on Mars...if that’s what you seek.”

A plan of attack is going under effect. I have plans to ship out tomorrow. I will gather my armies right away, but I can't guarantee when I will back exactly. I could feel her clinging towards me, I didn't want to let her go. I watched her go to sleep, I tried to remember just how she looked, how beautiful her skin glowed--how incredible she truly was...and how grateful I was to receive a wonderful Angel.

I knew how strong she was--it's just that she didn't know it yet. I got up carefully, it was early in the morning. I looked at the clock and it read 4:25AM, I was amazed that I spent the entire day and night with her. Elizabeth was wonderful, she brought out a part of me I thought died--when the massacre happened to my parents.

I remember Tess cried for days on end. She was 19 years old at the time, and I was 17 years old. I couldn't let any emotion out, I couldn't let everyone see me cry. Only 48 hours after their deaths, I was crowned King of Antar. And only then when I was going through my father effects, did I see his will saying that once I'd become king and reached my 21st yr. that I would be betrothed to a princess of another origin.

I was distraught, I didn't want to marry anyone one. She wasn’t even going to be of my world. I had my doubts but it's what my parents wanted, and I didn't want to let them down so I hoped for the best. And now that I stand here remembering all the things I worried about--I'm glad that I went along with them. I knew there were many things to come in the future. Many happy things and I'm glad I get to spend them with my wife.

I quickly got dressed and leaned over my future Bride and kissed her gently on the forehead, and put a note that I wrote on the pillow beside her. And quietly left the room, I closed the door behind me and my second in command was standing by the door waiting for me.

”Sir, may I ask what took you so long?" Michael asked me. I jumped and pushed him away, "It is none of your business what I do with my time, don't worry about it Michael and get a life of your own." I exclaimed to him. "Did you get lucky?" Michael asked me, I didn't answer him just replied, "Did you gather the armies up? Are they ready to ship out?" He didn't bother to answer me, I knew that his silence meant 'yes'.

"Michael, I have a feeling about this. I know that King Zeroanlod and his fellow Marsianars followers will never expect this surprise attack. Are you sure they know nothing of the attack?" I asked as we proceeded to the underground plane yard.

We geared up and within a matter of minutes everyone had flown off into space, to seek Mars--who betrayed the trust of everyone and who demolished Earth into no more. Who killed Elizabeth’s parents, who were to proud to save themselves, but not before saving their children and sacrificing their own lives in return.

Michael climbed into the front cockpit as I climbed into the rear seat. Within minutes we were off the palace grounds and into the early morning sky. With a quick glance at the palace, I could see the light on in my room and Liz peering out of the window.

I just smiled to myself because I knew she cared. I wanted more than anything to accomplish this mission so I could return home. So I could be with her, my beloved wife to be.



ELIZABETH POV
______________________________________________________________

I turned back around to the empty room that was laid out before me. Then I saw a neatly written note that lay on the pillow besides mine. I carefully picked it up and sat on the bed, opened it and the note read as follows,

Dearest Elizabeth,

Liz, I know you've been through a lot--and you didn't want me to go but in a way I have to. It's a breech of contract for Mars to attack Earth and the contract allows us to take action in starting a war. I don't know when I'm going to get back--but when I do, I want you to know...that we will start are lives together. I care deeply for you and I hope you feel the same for me, in such a sense. I will be fine, I promise you that--I know you will just as fine. You are a very strong individual and I know what you have to say today will prove that. Remember that you will always be with me. I will miss you and expect me home in 4 weeks time.

Yours truly,

Maxwell Evans

With that I put down the letter, with everything that happened today...I totally forgot what happened to my family, as sadly as that is! His letter really woke me up.

I couldn't believe he truly felt that I was indeed that strong of a person. I've never had to use that side of me before, but deep inside of myself I knew that I had to find that girl in order to do what I knew that my father wanted me to pursue.

I got dressed and ready. I knew it was only 5:45 in the morning--but I couldn't go back to sleep.I went downstairs to his den and put in the video tape of my father. It was the only thing I had left of him, as I watched the tape over and over again. I looked down at the necklace that my mother gave me shortly before we left. The tears in her eyes--the emotion of that day was overwhelming as I try to recall. I know that it was mostly for me.

A desperate plea of Love and wanting more than anything for me to understand, but sadly I didn't understand it then but I wish I had. I kept rewinding the tape and watching it over and over until the sun came up and I was interrupted by Tess. "What are you doing in here?" she exclaimed. I jumped up and looked her straight in the eyes, "What do you care? This isn't your den it's Maxwell’s..." I told her.

"I know that Missy--but what are you doing in here? Only family and diplomats are allowed in here. And it looks like you’re not either one of those so get out! NOW!!" She screamed at me. I got up from where I was sitting, and walked over to her. She was at eye level and calmly said, "Look Tess, I've really been through a lot in the past 48 hours, so I don't really need this from you right now, you airhead! Plus, Maxwell told me personally--that I can go anywhere I pleased since I'm going to be the Queen and All!!" I screamed at her.

"When did he tell you this?" she asked. "Shortly before he left to fight King Zeroanlod of Mars." I told her. She looked stumped. "Wh--what do you mean Fight King Zeroanlod...why wou--would he do that, he never told me about any of this?" she asked me. "Well, you see Tess, Mars went against their agreement with Earth and now Max is fixing that, he promised me." I told her, trying to hide my amusement.

"Where is Kyle? I want to speak to him. Damn my husband or my brother doesn’t tell me anything!” she exclaimed. KYLE!!" She screamed for him as she stormed out of the room. I burst out laughing...in a way I knew Maxwell was right all along.I was a strong person but how he picked that out of me was odd, nobody has ever done that.

I knew I was ready to tell my siblings the horrible news. I walked out to the courtyard, and look out to the amber sky, and I knew that he was okay. That he'd be home soon, and I knew he was thinking of me. I picked up a daisy and smelled itand it was sweet. I closed my hands over it and opened them up again and I changed the flower into a butterfly and watched it fly away into the sky.

I smiled as I watched it fly off, I knew my parents were looking down on all of us, and we were going to be more than fine here. They made the right choice, I decided for the first time in those 48 hours. I was actually glad that I was betrothed, and my King was fighting just for me. What could get better than that? I walked back into the house to gather Ava-Maria and Alexx.

After I had gathered up my brother and sister, I lead them to the den and closed and locked the door. "I have something I need to tell you." I told them "Something important...something that I need to get out...because I can't hold it inside anymore." I told them.

"What is it Liz? What’s so important that you dragged us out of bed for?" Ava-Maria exclaimed. She was not a morning person! "Okay, I'm just going to come out and say this. You know how Mom and Dad were going to meet us out here at the end of the summer for our 21st Birthdays?" I told them calmly. "Yeah, what about it Liz?" Alexx said. "Well, they aren't going to come here and we can't go home to Earth ever again. This is our home now, and especially mine." I quickly said.

"What do mean we can't go home?" Ava-Maria asked curiously. "Well, at the end of this summer trip, I was to be married to King Maxwell that was the agreement, but what Mom and Dad didn't tell you was that Mars went against their peace agreement and was furious against our planet and instead of reasoning, King Zeroanlod went too far and completely destroyed Earth.

"How much did they destroy Earth?" Alexx asked. All I could really say to that was, "Earth is no more... and Mom and Dad went along with it." They looked dumbfounded. I didn't know what else to say. I looked around the room, and saw the tape lying on the desk. "Watch this and you might understand in more detail. Father gave this to me shortly before we left. He told me it was Maxwell, but when he opened the package there was letter noting that it was for us.

He didn't want us to worry, because if we had known we probably wouldn't have left. They saved our lives--but sacrificed their own." I told them as I put on the video tape. As I heard my father’s voice, I couldn't help but to cry. I walked over to the window, and I saw the butterfly that I set free still flying around the garden, in a way I wanted to be that butterfly just to fly away from everything. Everyone was quiet after the tape ended. Alexx and Ava- Maria were quiet for the rest of the day.

It's been two weeks since that day, they knew that there was a war going on and that it was for revenge. Alexx was upset that he didn't get to go and fight with Maxwell. But in a sense I don't think Maxwell would have let him, knowing that if he'd lost his life I would probably would never forgive him for letting him go.

One afternoon, I was feeling tired and went to go lay down. I was feeling dizzy and sick. I went to sleep, and quickly went into a dream state. I saw myself with a huge stomach and worried sick about Max. He was fighting in another war, I was pregnant with twins. I knew that because I connected with my children. With that I woke up and jumped up, my stomach had grown in just those few minutes." I'm pregnant." I exclaimed.

In a way I was afraid of what Max might think. Would he be happy or sad, or just upset. I knew I wasn't going to tell him until he got back and I didn't even know when that was going to be. I got up and ran to 'Ria’s room and quickly closed the door behind me. " Liz, geez! Don't you knock anymore? I don't barge into your room do I?" I looked at her amazed that she even said that. "Okay, so I do, but what is the big deal?" she asked. " 'Ria, I trust you not to tell anyone about this but I have to tell someone before I burst." I exclaimed.

"Oh...Juicy gossip...what is it?" she asked eagerly waiting to know. "I'm pregnant!!" I told her. "What...Liz, you can't be pregnant! You didn't even do anything. It takes two to Tango and seeing by the look on your face I guess you already have." She looked at me curiously. "Well, yester--" Maria cut me off. "This barely happened yesterday?!!!" she exclaimed.

"Will you just let me tell you the story?" I asked her. She made a face and gesture for me to continue. "Like I was saying…Yesterday, I was feeling sick and noticed that I didn't get my cycle this month and I remember what happened when we first arrived and when I first met Maxwell and how I nearly fell off my feet. He's so dreamy and perfect and everything I imagined my husband to be.

After I found out about Mother and Father, I fainted. And the next thing I knew was that he carried me to his room for me to lie down. I was in such an emotional state that one thing led to another...and we did it." I blurted out as quickly as I could. "How many times?" 'Ria asked curious to know. "Three times..." I uncomfortably noted.

"Well, that should be enough to do it!" Maria exclaimed as she burst out laughing. "Maria, I need you to be serious here. I know you are the youngest out of all of us, and the one less likely to take this issue seriously...but can you try? For me?" I asked her, as she quickly quieted down and cleared her throat. "Okay, I'm back...but Liz, isn't this what you've always wanted a family, a husband, the perfect life. What did Max say when he found out?" she asked.

"I didn't tell him yet...and how I am even suppose to tell him...he's off in space fighting a war, there is no way of contacting him. Plus, I'd rather not tell him until he gets back." I calmly said. "Well, does this mean I'm going to be an aunt?” she exclaimed. "Yes, of course. And guess what?! I'm having twins!" I exclaimed in excitement. "Twins! Oh…Liz that is wonderful!!" Maria exclaimed right back at me. We joined together in a hug, and I was glad to I told her, at least I wouldn't be alone in this--at least for now.

It has been exactly 4 weeks since Maxwell left, and I miss him dearly...I awoke early this morning and waited eagerly all day for him to return home, but there was no sign of him.

When I gave up hope of him returning today, I went outside to the courtyard and took in the smells of the summer that was just beginning. I had my brother and sister but that just wasn’t enough... I need my love in order for my heart to endure another day. I need Maxwell by my side, I went to the gazebo and sat there looking at the stars; when I couldn't take it anymore and I just broke down and started to cry.

TBC....

Chapter 2: Who's right or Wrong?



MAXWELL POV
_____________________________________________________________

We were entering Antar’s atmosphere and I had to get home tonight. That's what I promised Liz, when we won--everyone was still celebrating the victorious win, but I left early.

I left Michael in charge to make sure everyone was to head back tomorrow morning, but I couldn't spend another day there unless I had to. I had a lot more important things on my mind.

"LIZ" I said quietly to myself. Within minutes I was home, taking off my gear and walking up to the main house.

I walked down the hallway where I saw my big sister Tess, "Max, You're HOME!!! When did you get back?" she asked me.

"Just now… look I'll talk to you later, but have you seen Liz?" I curiously awaited her reply.

"Oh…her...yeah.. I just saw her go outside to the courtyard." she told me blandly.

I looked at her disgusted at how she addressed my bride, but I will take care of her later. I quickly ran out to the garden and saw her sitting in the gazebo, and as I got closer I noticed she was crying.

I hoped it wasn't my doing. I went up to her and gave her my handkerchief and said, "Don't cry my love, I'm home."

She didn't even take it. Instead she looked up and all those sad tears turned into tears of joy.

She jumped off the seat and into my arms and welcomed me with a very passionate kiss that didn't end for several minutes.

She finally broke away and exclaimed in happiness, "I'm glad you’re home, I'm so glad you’re not hurt!!" she confessed.

"I knew coming home one day early would make everything worth while." I told her. She just laughed and hugged me tighter.

"Elizabeth, I missed you so much--I couldn't spend another day without you...and now that I'm here, why don't we go upstairs and see how much we missed each other."



ELIZABETH POV ______________________________________________________________
Upstairs, "Max before we start doing anything...I want to tell you something important." I told him.

He was across the room taking off his shoes. "Yeah..what is it?" he asked.

"Remember the night... when we first met and we had that amazing night?" I asked him.

He smiled and nodded. "Well, something...happened because of that amazing night and that something is...I'm pregnant!" I said quickly.

He stopped dead in his tracks. "I'm pregnant with Twins!!" I blurted out, almost afraid of what was to come next.

He looked at me and walked over to me. "How did this happen?" he asked.

"Well, people always say that the third time is a charm--well at least on Earth that is..." I told him with a smile on my face. "Say something Maxwell...say anything.”

“Are you Mad?" I asked him. "No...no I'm not mad Liz, I just need a moment to let this all sink in.

So we're pregnant with twins...and I guess--I guess" he tried to say.

"You're not happy about this? I knew you were going to be upset, that first comes the wife you didn't want, and now the children that you don't want." I exclaimed.

I got up and walked to the window.

MAXWELL POV
_____________________________________________________________
"Liz, I'm not upset...I'm happy! I truly am. I 've always wanted a family, a wife, I just didn't know it was going to be this soon."

I walked over to where she was standing and gently turned her around and lifted her up and carried her to the bed. I gently laid her down and laid down next her.

"So, we're going to have these babies...right?” I told her.

"Right!!" she whispered to me. She reached up and kissed me very gently.

I broke away, "You do know that Antarian pregnancies take only 6 months rather than nine months like humans. So what if we move up the wedding to be in one month rather than in 3 months." I asked her.

She looked up at me and whispered to me, "I would marry you right now, if that’s what you wanted. I love you...of course I'm happy with that...I love you Max." "I love you too", I whispered back.


Elizabeth POV____________________________________________

I walked over to the window and peered out. The amber sky was beautiful this time of day. It felt like only a few days since we've last came here, but in fact it's been months. It's been several months to be exact. My wedding was to take place in a day. I can't believe that this day is finally here. I still couldn't make myself believe that I was to be Queen of Antar. It was still hard to comprehend in my mind. A knock on the door interrupted my thoughts.

"Yes, come in." I told the person on the other side of the door.

I didn't turn to acknowledge the person who came in, and I didn't want to really.

"Lizzy, I wanted to ask you something" he asked.

I turned around to see Alexx standing there looking pale.

"Alexx what is it? Are you alright?" I rushed over to him, to see for myself.

But he stopped me, grabbed my hands and put them back to my side.

"I wished to do something for you, something that I know that will make our parents proud." He calmly said.

"What is it Alexxander?" I cautiously replied.

"Since you are getting married tomorrow, I couldn't be happier for you and everything you've put up with in the past. I wanted to give you away you know...since Mom and Dad can't be here. I want to do that for them, I want to do this for you. I'm proud you are my older sister--I couldn't ask for anything better. " he rapidly said.

I had tears in my eyes.

"Of course you can give me away. Actually I want you and Ava-Maria to do the honors. I don't know where I would be if it wasn't for the both of you. All we have is each other, family sticks together through every and anything." I hugged and kissed him on the cheek.

All of a sudden a voice came from behind our embrace.

"Am I interrupting anything?"

I pulled away, and looked towards the door and saw my Maxwell standing at the doorway. I smiled and wiped away my tears, and shook my head to tell him 'NO'.

"If you'd both excuse me, I'll go find Ava-Maria to tell her the plan for tomorrow." Alexx said as he was leaving the room, but before so he shook Maxwell’s hand.

Max shut the door after he left, and walked steadily over to me.

"Now what was that all about?"

"Alexx just wanted to know if he could give me away tomorrow--For the wedding."

"Wedding...There's going to be a wedding? No way...to who?" He asked.

"Oh…I don't know...to some king. But I'm not sure what his name is..." I replied as I laughed a little.

"Oh really? Is this King cute?"

He asked me as he picked me up and carried me to the bed.

"Oh...I wouldn't go that far."

He smirked at me and replied.

"Now just what is that supposed to mean?"

"Oh, nothing--nothing at all."

He laid me on the bed, and laid down next to me. He gently pulled me close to him. He leaned in close and gently kissed me, slowly at first then it grew rapid.

"Did you lock the door?" I asked him.

"No. But they know that when the doors are closed not to come in." He replied while still kissing me.

"So, this is the reason why you came in here!" I told him.

He smiled and smirked a little. "Can't a future husband miss his future wife?" He asked sarcastically.

"Well, I see no harm in that" I shrugged and started to laugh.




Maxwell POV____________________________________________

I looked at the clothes that were thrown everywhere. I smiled back at Liz, and took her in my arms once more and kissed her.

"I love you so much Liz, I've just been so lost these past few months. Until the day I met you. You've been exactly what I need. I'm never going to leave you"

I looked at her and we smiled at each other for a short while. “But I have to go!” I exclaimed.

"Maxwell Justin Evans--You did come in here just for this!" she exclaimed.

All I could do was smile, and replied, "Well, I did miss you and an opening came in my schedule for the day, I would stay if I could but I can't. I have a very important meeting with the other worlds, I think that Mars wants to fight back--so I think I'm going to have to return to the battlefield in two days."

I didn't realize that I just said that. I couldn't help it, it just came out. I looked back at Liz.

I finished buttoning my shirt, and sat on the bed. Where Liz was curled up and I could sense that she was crying. Now I felt bad, I knew I shouldn't have opened my mouth.

"Liz, Honey don't be sad, the sooner I can take care of this problem the better we will be. We won’t have to deal with this mess in the future."

She sat up and curled her arms around my neck. The sheet fell from her when she did exposing her body. But she continued to cry.

"No Max, you can't go! You just came back from there, I can't lose you too, I just can't Max! My world would be lost without you." She cried out half in sadness and pain.

"Elizabeth...you're not going to get rid of me that easily. I promise you, I will come back to you! Our love is too great to be lost so soon. I will figure out a way for us to keep in touch so you know exactly what is going on, but I really have to go Liz."

But she didn't let go. There was a knock on the door and followed by a voice.

"Sir Maxwell, the worlds are awaiting--you shouldn't let them wait no much longer sir."

"Kyle, I will be out in a moment. Wait for me in the east wing. I'll meet you there." I shouted back.

"Liz, will you meet me in the courtyard in an hour? I'm sure you and the girls have some last minute touches to do for tomorrow."

She nodded and smiled at me. I wiped away her tears and kissed her on the cheek. I got up and continued to get dressed. As I was walking to the door, Liz stopped me.

She got up from the bed, with the sheet wrapped around herself. "Max wait--do you think we can continue this tomorrow?"

She purposely let the sheet fall to the ground exposing every inch of herself. She smiled flirtatiously, and just walked off to the restroom and closed the door.

I sighed heavily to myself, and went on to my meeting. Kyle met me in the east wing where I suggested for him to go.

"Good day sir, the other worlds are not happy with you right now. You know they don't like tardiness." Kyle said.

"I'm just trying to look out for you my lord but you should really b--" Kyle said but Max interrupted abruptly.

"Kyle, look—she’s just trying to take this all in okay? She is my life now, she is my world--she means everything to me. She's lost so much in the past few months, I don't want her to add me to that list. You don't have the slightest clue about her. You know, I've been trying to calm her down for the past hour or so. To explain to her that I have to do this for the sake of my people and my god forsaken planet, and for my future wife." I got up really close to him and shouted in his face. "Now go tell the leaders that if they don't want to wait for me then they can go to this stupid war with me and without my men. But we both know that is not possible, so don't ever talk to me about this ever again. You may be my brother-in-law, but I'm the boss here no matter what my stupid sister Tess says. Now go to the doors and introduce me properly." I screamed at him.

Kyle ran to the doors and cleared his throat as he opened the double doors that lead into the conference room. "Now, may I present to you, your highness Sir Maxwell Justin Evans King of Antar" Kyle shouted. I entered the room shortly after I regained my composure, and started the meeting.

"World Leaders, I would very much like to get this over with--so we all know that it is only a matter of a couple of days until we attack on Mars. If it's a war they want, then it's a war they are going to get. While I am gone, I would like my future wife--Princess Liz to take over the active throne of Antar until the day that this issue is over with." I told them all.

There was a slight gasp on the world leaders part, that I would want my bride to take over the throne and not my sister. Mainly because she was the rightful heir to the throne after me, but I knew that if I gave my sister that power, that when it came time for me to regain that power she would never give it back without a fight.
Kyle voiced his opinion also, "But Sir, there is no time to get her ready for such a thing! It's best if Tess would take over--don't you think so?" he asked.

"Kyle, you are my brother-in-Law but you have no say in this. Elizabeth knows what to do. She is an excellent Princess and will make an outstanding Queen. She will take over the throne, end of story." I replied.

"But Sir--you don't understand, Te--" Kyle started to say but I cut him off.

"Kyle, I said 'NO'!" I shouted back at him.

I addressed myself back to the other leaders, and said,"Everything is already taken care of. Kyle will go over with you the weekly figures, and I will see you all on D-Day." I nodded at Kyle for him to begin to talk. I got up and went to go look for my wife.

Just as Liz was coming out of the room, she could see Max coming straight toward her.

"Max what is it?" she asked.

"Nothing...I just really wanted to see you. Can we talk outside?" I asked her. I guided her out into the courtyard.

"Are you sure there is nothing bothering you Max, because you don't look like yourself. What happened?" She demanded.

"Nothing...I just have a question for you." I got up from the bench where she was sitting at. I put my hands in my pockets and paced around for a moment or two before I squatted down in front of her and started to ask my question.

"You see, once I leave I have to have someone to look after everything for me. The council wants me to get my sister to do that but I don't. I don't trust her...there is only one person that I trust and that is you, it will always be you. I want you to take over the throne just until I get back." I looked her in the eyes and saw the fright that came pouring out of her eyes.

"What do you mean...you want me? What I am supposed to do...I've never ruled anything before. I can't even keep Ava-Maria and Alexxander from fighting...what makes you think I can do this?" she asked.


"Because I know you. I know what you are like. I know you will do the right thing when it is presented to you. Liz you’re the one I trust...you’re the one I love. I would put my life in your hands any day. Please, can you do this for me?" I asked.

"But Max...are you sure?"

"As sure as I'll ever be. Anyways, you'll have Kyle to look after you...to tell you what you need to know." I looked at her with pleading eyes.

"For you and only this once. I will do this for you Max, but just as long as you keep your promise and be back before the twins are due."

"Mrs. Evans,you have yourself a deal. I'll give you some pointers before I leave. Just one thing, whatever my sister says to you don't listen. She wants the throne for herself, she always has--just don't let her get to you that’s all." I told her as I got up and handed her my hand to indicate for her to get up.

"Well, you'd better get ready for the ceremony. Don't worry I'll take care of everything..."

"Okay..." she replied.

"There is a gown waiting for you in the room, It was made just for you...I'm sure you will like it! I promise." I kissed her hand as she retired upstairs.

I sighed to myself. Now, I just wished that Tess wouldn't find this out and remembered about Kyle. He was bound to tell her. "Damnit!!" I shouted as I stormed back inside to find him.

Elizabeth POV


I ran upstairs to see the surprise Max had left me. But I got distracted when I heard Kyle talking to Tess.

"I can't believe he wants to leave the throne to that pregnant dog! She doesn’t know the first thing when it comes to running a country! I should get it...I'm next in line! Damn him!" Tess yelled out.

"Honey, keep your voice down. If Max finds out that I told you he's going to kill me!" He whispered fiercely.

"Oh, never you mind Kyle. He's not going to find out. He's talking to little miss perfect right now. Let me see, tomorrow is the wedding so we can't do anything really, but I'm sure after the ceremony we can tell the council that she is not suited to be in charge." she replied to Kyle.

I saw somebody coming upstairs in a frantic hurry. I quickly hid away so no one would see me. I peeked out to see that it was Max.

Maxwell POV

"I can't believe him! My own brother choosing his Betrothed over his own...--" there was a voice at the door that made her aware that they weren't alone in the room.

"Sister..." I finished the sentence for her.

"Yeah...I chose the person I trusted the most...and to tell you Tess, I don't trust you! You've been after me ever since our parents died, and you tried to explain to the council that you were the rightful owner of the throne, because you are older but you’re completely immature. You and your pitiful husband over here! I told you not to tell her! Didn't I?" My face was hot with anger.

"Shut up...Shut Up..." She screamed at him.

"I'm your own blood! That pregnant dog shouldn't get the throne simply because she is the new hussy in your life. Yeah, you're going to marry her but who knows how many countless girls you are going to have on the side! Every time it's the same thing. That pregnant dog doesn’t know what's coming to her!" She sneered at him.

Hot with anger, I couldn't contain myself from letting my powers loose. I blasted her across the room, leaving Kyle running to see if she was alright.

"You’re something else, you know that, sister? Don't you ever talk about her like that ever again or I won't be as nice the next time around. You want to rule so bad I'll tell you what, I was going to let you rule Mars once we take control of their system but now I'm not so sure! You two leave me and Liz be. If I find out that you so much as looked at her in a bad or threatening way you'll both be sorry!" With that I walked away leaving them both there stunned.

Once I walked out of the room I stood there for a moment looking at the ground trying to regain my composure. Looking up I see Elizabeth standing there.

"How much did you hear?" I asked.

"Just about everything..." she replied. She walked into our room and I followed her.

Elizabeth POV

Max followed me into the room, and closed the doors behind him. I paced around the room before speaking.
"What if she's right Max? I don't know the first thing to ruling a country...yet alone an entire world, nation--an entire race. I know you think I can do it...but I'm just--I don't know." I said meekly.

"Liz, don't listen to her. She's just trying to get you to crumble. She wants the throne. She always has and she always will--that is until I get out of this world. That's why I am doing this. I'm going off to war not only for revenge for your family but for us. So we can get them off our backs and we can continue our lives. I want to grow old with you...I know you are the one for me. Liz, please...I need you right now...I can't do this without you." he told me.

I could feel everything inside of me...looking through him and seeing the truth. We loved each other more than words could explain. I fell to my knees.

"Liz..." he rushed to my side kneeling down next to me. I touched the side of his face.

"Okay. I will go through with this...but I'm only doing this for you." I told him. A smile crept onto my face.

"Thank you Liz...Than--" I cut him off as I kissed him.

Maxwell POV

Seeing everything that she was putting on the line for me, I returned her kiss.

"I love you." I smiled at her.

Helping her to her feet I asked,"Are you ready to become Queen of Antar?" I smile at her.
I look slightly past her and see that the present is still on the bed, and it hasn't been touched.

I walked away from her and retrieved the gift and brought it to her.

"I hope you like it..." I hand it to her and she smiles eagerly to me. She rips it open and she is almost in awe when she takes out the diamond encrusted dress.
"It was my Mother’s when she became Queen. I thought it was best to carry out a new tradition.

She ranted..."Maxwell it's beautiful! How did you know? I've never seen a dress so wonderful--I mean...I--"

I walked up to her and put my fingertips in front of her mouth. "I know...you don't have to say anything. Just make sure you put it on with these."
I took a box from my pocket and exposed the diamond necklace and matching earrings.

"Maxwell…you...you…didn't…haaaaa--" she tried to say.

"Oh, there is no need to be modest Liz. Only the best for my wife." I told her, half laughing at her excitement.

I took the necklace out of the box and placed it around her neck. "There you go." I told her as I kissed her cheek.

Suddenly there was a knock on the door. "I'll get it." I walked over and saw that Ava-Maria was standing there.

"Can I see my sister Max?" she asked.

"Oh…sure." I opened the door to her.

"I'll be back up in second. I have to see if everything is ready. I'll leave you ladies alone." Liz smiled at me as I closed the door. They screamed with excitement as soon as I did. I started to giggle a little.

I opened the door to where Tess and Kyle were. "You two...get ready for the ceremony! NOW!" I shouted as I walked away.

‘What a day this is turning out to be.’ I thought to myself.

*Kyle and Tess* POV'S

Once Max had left the room Kyle headed over to his wife. "Tess are you alright?" he asked as he helped her up.

"I'm fine." she said as she shoved herself away from him. "We'd better go, the ceremony is about to start.” She got up and walked quickly to their room and slammed the door behind her. He ran after her.

She replied to him, "How could you? How could you let him treat me like that? You’re supposed to be my husband! You’re supposed to stand up for me. He's never treated me like that before. It's because of her...she's made him soft. She's made him a coward--She's the mess around here! We need to get rid of her...but not until after Max is gone! C'mon lets head downstairs..." she ranted as he followed her downstairs.

Maxwell POV

In the corner of my eye, I could see Tess coming toward me and her husband not that far behind her. "Maxwell," she said.

"Maxwell, I'm sorry...for everything. I didn't mean to be a bitch. I guess I'm just jealous...that's all. I'm truly sorry...really I am...we both are." A smile crept onto her face.

I looked at her in question. "Who are you...and what did you do to my sister?" I asked unsure of who this woman was before me.

"Oh, Max stop. Where is Elizabeth? I want to see her before the ceremony starts."

"Up in our room." She nods at my reply.

"Kyle, you stay here. I'm only going to pop my head in for a moment!" she told him as she headed upstairs.

I don't know why...but something inside of me didn't trust her. There was something wrong with this picture but I didn't know exactly what.

"Umm… Please excuse me Kyle. I forgot there is something I must see to.”

Elizabeth POV

Once the screaming went down I finally got my dress on. My hair was done and I put the jewels on. "Ava-Maria...this is just a dream, isn't it? I've never been so happy.” There was a knock on the door.

"’Ria...can you get that?" I asked.

I heard voices at the door, but I didn't bolt away from the mirror. I tried to take everything in. "Maria...Wh--" I turned around in mid sentence to find that Tess was standing there instead of Maria. She looked like hell, and her hands were behind her back. "Tess…um...where did my sister go?"

"Oh…well, she had to get ready too so I offered to help you out while she does her thing."

"Tess...you know that is nice but I think I’ve got it covered...so you ca--" she cut me off in mid sentence.

"You know, that is a wonderful dress. I remember when my mom wore it. You know she was saving it for me. I don't think she wanted a sad pitiful wannabe Queen to wear it." she went over to me and started to tear and rip the dress.

"If I don't get wear it...neither shall you!!" she shouted.

"Poor, pitiful Liz Whitman. You and your stupid family...just a shame...my brother won’t be around to see his future wife die!"

"What...no...Tess...C'mon…be…civilized...now.." I pleaded but it was too late. With her powers she started choking me. I couldn’t breathe and her power grew stronger as my entire body started to levitate off the ground. I wanted to fight her but how could I? I was human.

"Let's see if anyone will save you now..." she laughed.

Maxwell POV

I reached the bedroom door and the door was locked. I could sense a strong force coming from the opposite side of the door. Using my powers, I forced the door open and there was Liz…levitated up and her face was purple. Tess's hand was extended holding her there.

"TESS NO!!" I screamed at her. Using my powers I blasted her across the room. Liz’s body slammed onto the floor, and I rushed to her at once.

"Liz...c'mon...breathe baby breathe...don't die...you can't die...not now...Liz--" tears were falling from my eyes. I placed my hand over her petite body and a flash of light streamed over her entire body. I poured all my energy and strength into the healing process. Within minutes there was a gasp coming from her.

"Liz...Liz" I exclaimed as I brought her close to me as we shared an embrace.

"Well...well...Isn't this nice...our king crying his heart out over some pathetic human who isn't even worth being called Queen." Tess sneered from where she landed.

"That bitch doesn’t deserve the title...!!"

TBC....

Chapter 3: Betrayed, Banished, and Suffering...

*Tess*


"Oh, look at you ...pitiful brother. This has been a long time coming...don't deny it...I've always wanted the crown...but no...You’re the boy. You get it. Even when I killed our Mother and Father, and they begged for their lives they still favored you over me." I said without ease.

"What?! You KILLED OUR PARENTS...What the hell is wrong with you?!" he shouted at me.

I laughed at him. “You still don't get it, do you? When I said that I wanted the crown, I MEANT IT. This isn't a game...it...is...what’s...meant... to...be!!" I smile at him. "Time to face the facts, Max, there is no way out for you. Oh. Yeah, what was I saying before you 'RUDELY INTERRUPTED ME.!' I collected my thoughts then continued...

"I tried to fix the royal papers so it said that I had legal Antarian rights over the throne, but hey...they wouldn’t agree to it...so um...I killed them. Yet it didn't matter that I was first born--I am more responsible--I am the one who wants it! You flaunt it around whenever you want to get laid and look, you’re trying to settle down with her. She wouldn't make a great anything...a mother, a wife, a Queen, a friend. I think I should add her to my list and kill her and your unborn child. Even he would be in the way! Should I Max...huh...or just tell me one reason why I shouldn't kill your Beloved Lizzy...Huh...TELL ME!" I yelled.

Maxwell

I sneered at her. "If you so much as lay a hand on her… I'll kill you, you ruthless piece of shit!"

"Oh...look...the King does have a back bone! Now that was something I didn't know!!” She turned to the door and says..."Did you know love?"

I turn to look and its Kyle. "Don't tell me--" I started and then she cut me off.

"Don’t tell you what? Tell me Max. Don't tell you what? That my Beloved is in on this as well? Well, he is my husband and we've been planning this for a long time. Now that we see that you are finally happy, we know you will give us what we want. Isn’t' that right, baby?" she leans over and kisses him.

I secretly send a message to Michael to get in here and within a matter of seconds he enters the room.

"What the hell is going on here?" he demanded as he looked at Tess, then to Kyle. And back at me.

My attention went back to Liz. I whispered to her..."Go into the restroom and lock yourself in there until I say that it's okay." She started to protest but I stopped her.
"Liz, please...” she nodded and did what I said quickly.

*TESS*

"Well if it isn't the great second in command coming to save the day. I think...wait...Kyle. Should I kill him as well--?" I asked him.

"Sure. I don't see why not..." he told me..."What's one more?" I smiled at him.

"God I hate humans...they are so whiny! I didn't expect those stupid humans to come over here, god you send the entire Mars Army to defeat and destroy Earth. And they are 30 minutes late. What does a girl has to do in order to rule the world?" I asked myself.

"Tess, you are the one that the orders to destroy earth? Why?" Max asked me.

"Maxwell, you still don't get it. What do I have to say to get it into that small brain of yours? When I said that I wanted the crown, I didn't just mean here--I mean everywhere. I want the entire galaxy to be mine." I smiled at both Max and Michael as I paced the room.

I looked from Max to Michael and then at Kyle where he smiled devilishly.

"You know it is too bad that little Miss Liz Whitman wasn't there with her parents. To hear their screams...to hear their pleas as Earth was destroyed." I laughed out.

Elizabeth:


I ran out of the room I had barricaded myself in and I stormed out to face her.

"You stupid bitch...you killed them...I'll kill you...I'll Kill YOU!!" I screamed out with all the emotion running through me, tears steaming down my face.

“You took away my home, my family, my hope, my heart--" I shouted.

I screamed and a burst of energy came out from me and burst into her. I held my stomach and fell to the ground.

After she went flying a few feet she got back up and a green glow came from her eyes. "Don't piss me off girl...you'll be sorry!" she exclaimed.

"Don’t worry girl, I am already there!! Tess you are going to pay one way or another! You don't deserve to live." I sneered at her as I tried to get back up.
But as soon as I did I fell back down...but this time in even more pain.

"MAX" I said quietly as I fell...
"Max, something is wrong...I don't know what exactly...but something is wrong."

Tess

"Isn't this nice? Two love birds that will never live to see another day. I'll tell you what...I'm going to show you my good side, and let you do your thing Max and I'm going to talk to Michael over here. Okay...”I turned my attention to him. I smiled at him while he gave me a sick disgusted look back.

"What do you want Tess....?" he asked me. "How stupid to you think I am? Tess, you are a piece of shit if you even so much as do what you are thinking about doing right now. What was your plan? I mean...what was your original plan?"

"Ah, Michael, you were always the curious one." I laughed and pointed at him “But hey I'll enlighten you in my plans. You see it all started out when---well, let's just say that everyone who got in my way I killed. Like your father, my father and mother, and countless others...I warned them all but they didn't listen!"

He raises his hand to me. "You killed my father...what the hell is wrong with you?” He demanded.

"Life means nothing if you don't have everything. Michael--don't...you'll be sorry." I told him.

He couldn't hold his urges anymore and blasted me so hard that I was knocked into the other room.

"Very good Michael...you are going to be sorry!" I screamed out and sent a bolt of electricity throughout his body.

Maxwell


I ran to Liz’s side. "Liz. Honey, what is wrong? Tell me...no. Open your eyes. Please Liz, you have to stay awake...Pl--please Liz...” she opened her eyes and whispered.

"I'm in so much pain...so much pain...make it stop...Max please...Ma--" she started to scream.

"No Liz. Please...stay calm...please...Liz. Baby" I rubbed her hair.

Her eyes were limp and then closed but she was still breathing. She passed out from too much pain.

I picked her up and placed her on the bed. I put my hands over her and healed her as best I could letting all my energy flow into her. Gasping for my breath I backed away from the bed and gave my attention to my sister once more. This was going to end now. I owed that much to my parents and as to Liz’s parents as well.

"Tess, this has gone on far enough...this has got to end..." I shouted.

"No, I don't think so brother. You see, the plan was to get you to Mars where you would be killed by some unknown force. Here on Antar...I swear on my life, I will kill everyone in this stupid house and rule." She stepped closer to me so that we were inches apart.

"And you see, I don't need your help because earlier this morning, upon my command, the Marians killed their leader. I am the ruler of Mars now and I will soon be after you and your family...everyone that surrounds you! I was going to take your child for my own. And raise him to hate you, to despise you. I figured a baby born from that skank you call a wife, it would be better off DEAD!" She shouted at me.

My instincts kicked into play. My face red with anger, I grabbed her arm and twisted it around her back so that she screamed out in pain. Kyle started at me but I put a shield around him so he couldn't move.

"Listen here bitch, that woman means everything to me. If you don’t respect that, then get the hell out of my house. You are not the Princess of Antar anymore. You are dropped from the royal list, you are only now royal by blood but not from name. You are no longer my sister, you are no longer my family. You are no one and worthless to me. I should kill you right now but I'm not going to." I slammed her into the wall harder than before.

"Go to your stupid planet but this is far from over, Tess"

I took her and I grabbed Kyle and dragged them both literally by the hair down to the transportation center which was three levels under ground. I got three of my best guards and told them to escort them back to Mars, drop them off and leave them there, if they try and escape the order was to kill them.

I threw Kyle in first. "I can't believe I trusted you" I told him but he didn't say anything back.

Holding Tess by the hair, I tightened my grip and she yelled with pain.

"You don't deserve this you know but you are still my sister. But if you so much as threaten this planet, my family, my wife, or my children ever again, you'll wish you were never born, and I will personally go to Mars and kill you myself. DO YOU HEAR ME?!!!! “I screamed at her.

She whimpered and nodded. I threw her inside as well and her face slammed onto the floor of the spaceship.

To one of the guards I told him, "I mean it. If they cause you any trouble kill them. Don't let them conquer you or the ship. Do I make myself clear?" The guard nodded and bowed and soon enough they were off the ground and into the evening they went. I sighed deeply at everything that happened today and then I remembered..."LIZ!"

Up inside our room, Liz was still asleep. I went to the side of the bed and healed Michael. I walked him to his room so he could rest. And once I came back I pulled a chair to side of the bed, took Liz’s hand and waited for her to come to.



Elizabeth


My eyes shot open. “Where am I?” I thought as I got up and looked at everything around me.

I was caught in this misty haze that completely covered me, “Max…MAX!!” I screamed. But no one answered—I just heard my screams returning to me.

“Max…Max…where are you…Max!” I shouted until I collapsed on the cold damp ground.

I reached out in front of me, there was this moss covered wall, I turned around and found the same thing. I got up and ran to my left—again there was a wall. I spun around to my right and there was an opening. I couldn’t see anything and before I could take five steps there was another closed off wall. “I’m trapped…in a maze…” I thought to myself. “Help” I screamed. “Can anyone hear me…anyone...” I said aloud, but I didn’t scream. I collapsed on the ground and started crying… “What am I going to do?”

Maxwell


It’s been days since Tess and Kyle left and there has been no sign of their return, but I am sorry that I didn’t kill them both myself They did destroy everyone’s life… for what…Nothing! But then again, there was another side to me saying that she is my sister. She may be evil but I’m not. I blamed myself each and every day that I was at fault for everything. That if I had more control over the situation that Liz would be safe…that we would be married by now…and getting ready to welcome our children. But we weren’t, mainly because Liz was in a coma from her accident with Tess. “What if…” I tried to continue my thoughts where there was a knock at the door.

“Come in…” I replied, never taking my eyes off of Liz.

“Max, ‘c’mon… you have to get out of here…at least for just an hour. Maria can look after her for a while. We just need to get you out of here.” Michael told me.

I shook my head—“No”. I spoke in a low toned voice, but there was firmness to it. I didn’t even look up at him when I answered, I watched my Liz. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her, I wouldn’t let myself. “Now, if there’s nothing else…can you please leave?” I whispered.

“Max, you haven’t left this room since Tess left. You look like shit, not to mention smell. You haven’t showered in two days. Just twenty minutes Maxwell. Enough time to get you cleaned up.” Michael tried to convince him.

“Michael, I said no…” I put my head in my hand and sighed deeply. “I can’t…I can’t bring myself to leave her. What if she wakes up and sees that I’m not here, then what? What kind of husband would I be? Without Liz, I’m nothing. I’m just another man with power…but in my heart I’m nothing. ” I told him quietly.

Michael nodded and understood what I was talking about. “I understand. Maxwell, if you need anything, you’ll know where I’ll be.” He quietly left the room.

I looked at Liz and heavily sighed. I knew he was right. I haven’t eaten, I haven’t slept in days but I didn’t care. I would give up my life in an instant if I could if it were possible to save hers. I looked at her and sat down on the bed. I put my hands over her body and tried to heal her. Everyday I tried to heal her but every time it just didn’t work. Once I stopped, I was panting for my breath and my strength to return.

I brushed the hair away from her face. “Liz, can you hear me? Can you? I love you baby—I love you so much. Liz come back to me—come back, Liz come back to me.” I whispered in her ear. I kissed her cheek, and I couldn’t take it anymore, I broke down and cried on her chest.

Elizabeth

I looked up suddenly; I could hear Max in the distance. Almost as if he was crying out to me somehow. But I couldn’t see him. “Max?” I whispered quietly. I wasn’t sure if it was really him, or if it was just me wanting to hear him. It wasn’t until the echoing grew louder. I could hear the words, “Come back…Come back to me Liz…” not only echoing in the air around me, but echoing in my heart. I smiled at the few words that were spoken.

“Max…Max!!” I screamed out. “I’m here…I’m here Max…I’m here. Don’t leave me!” I shouted with tears running down my face. I ran into the mist, and ran into a wall. I went the opposite direction and followed the sound of his voice. “Max…keep talking…just keep talking…” I pleaded him silently.

It was too dark so I grabbed on to the wall, I couldn’t see a thing. I then clutched my dress. For some reason I was in my wedding dress, with lace and satin. I didn’t know why or where I was at exactly so it didn’t really matter. I pulled off my veil and sent it flying off behind me. My hair came loose and flowed behind me as I ran the maze as fast as I could following his voice. But with each step it either got louder or softer, it was never both.

I ran around one corner, and coming out of the shadows was someone. That person grabbed my arm and jerked me back.

“NO...LET ME GO... “I screamed as I tried to jerk free of the grasp.

“Liz...It’s me... it’s me...” the voice calmed me.

I looked over into the shadows, and looked very closely. It was almost as if I knew this person. The moonlight was bright as the mist dissolved around me.

“Who are you?” I asked in a frightened voice.

Stepping out of the shadows...to reveal himself to me.

I ran up to him “Daddy...” I cried as I wrapped my arms around him and sank into his arms.

Maxwell

Sitting by Liz again, I tried to heal her. I tried every time I knew that my energy was back. I placed my hands over her, but nothing worked every time—nothing worked. Panting and breathless I put my head on her chest.

“Come back to me Liz...Come back.” I whispered in a fierce frightened voice.

I took her hand in mine as Alex and Maria come into the room; I looked up and gave them a weak smile.

“Hey guys.” I tried to keep strong as I forced myself to pull away from her, and to stand by Alex who was still standing by the door.

While Maria headed to Liz, I stayed and talked to Alex.
“So, Max...how’s she look?” he asked looking for any good news.

I gave him a weak smile, “Well, she has a lot more color today. She’s more aware of her surroundings, that’s something we haven’t seen—that’s good news.” I tried to sound happy for those few small things.

Alex didn’t reply, he just nodded. Understanding how hard it was for him to stand there and say those things to her brother and sister.

I stood there suddenly in a deeper anguish than before, “Alex, excuse me really quick won’t you?” he nodded as I slipped out of the room and into my office.

I found a picture of Tess and Kyle on their wedding day on my desk next to our parents. Tears were streaming down my face, and I took the picture...and threw it across the room.

The glass shattered in every which way. “You’ll pay for this Tess...if it’s the last thing I do...I’ll kill you if I have to!” I shouted as I broke down and fell to my knees.

Elizabeth

Still holding on to him, I gasped and cupped his face into my hands. “I thought you were gone...you died... What happened? Did you manage to get away?” I couldn’t help but ask him, and I continued to hug him again.

He smiled as I pulled away from him, “Lizzy...Sweetie, I am gone. I’m alive in your heart, mind and soul, that’s why you are able to see me right now. We are a part of you, and something like that never dies.” He smiled at her as my smile started to fade.

“You mean you are dead? Then what is this...how am I able to see you?” I asked.

“This is a dream...you are trying to find your way home, and since I am a part of you—you have to let me go in order for you to move on.”

“But Daddy, I can’t ... you were my world. You were my everything. I can’t just drop you like you’re nothing!” I exclaimed.

“Liz, I’m already gone. Max is your everything now, you are not dropping me. I am more than happy being in second place. Besides, Max loves you and he really needs you right now. I saved your guys’ life, so you could live a better life. Now you need to go back to him—to save his life.” He hugged me.

I looked at him, and looked into his hazel auburn eyes. “I love you daddy. I always have and I always will.” I exclaimed as I hugged him and kissed him once more.

“I know sweetie, I know. Your mother and I will be watching you every step along the way...Now GO!!” He told me in a stern voice, so I would actually listen.

I smiled and shot out into the night and mist once again. Not knowing what else I would come across but now, I felt more at peace in my soul, mind and heart.

“Max I’m coming... I’m trying to find you...” I shouted as I spun in circles—waiting and almost calling for his voice.

Maxwell


I came back into the room almost ten minutes later, the room was empty. I went to Liz’s side.

”Liz, can you hear me...” I asked her but she didn’t respond.

“I love you Liz...Come back to me...I’m nothing without you...” I whispered in her ear.

Elizabeth

“MAX!!” I yelled. “Max, I’m here...I’m here!” I started to run following the direction of his voice. I turned around the last corner of the maze and the mist was gone. I could see Max—he was there... and so was I. He was sitting beside me, I was in bed—he looked heartbroken.

“Max...I’m here... I love you... MAX!!” I shouted and yelled.

“He can’t hear you...” a voice shot out.

“Who are you?” I turned around.

“I’m the one who is holding you back, back from everything. You’ve never met me but he has. You see, I’m the EX. Before you came along, he loved me, he cherished me. The only thing was that I was not his betrothed. He always described his betrothed as this most beautiful creation. I always loved him, but he never felt the same for me. I was his childhood sweet heart. We grew up together, I’ve always loved him—but he never quite felt the same for me—I don’t know why. He always knew you were out there, he just didn’t know when. He had this princess by his side, as he had me on this high step.” She blankly told me.

“What do you want from me?” I asked her.

“Well, I wanted to see what Max really sees in you. You see, I died back when we were teenagers. I gave my life to save his—you know the ultimate sacrifice, for your one true love. Yep...that was me!” She cried out.

“You see, within days he was over it. Yeah, he cried, he was sad—but within the same week he was back to his normal self. And that’s why you are here. I mean, I could pull the plug right now...but what would be the fun in that...to see you dead. I mean, you never did anything to me, you don’t even know me, but I can kill him.” She smiled a devilish grin.

“WAIT—STOP—PLEASE”. I shouted at her, and she did.


Maxwell

I took her hand in mine and made an unconscious connection with Liz, and I was inside her mind with her. I saw her and ran to her. “LIZZ...” I shouted as I ran to her before a blinding light went full force at me, causing me to go flying back. I got up only to see none other but my best friend, who died... almost 8 yrs. ago.

“Ava. W-why are you here?” I asked.

She walked up to me and shouted “I here to show you that true love can never last...” “Now...say good-bye to true love!!” She shouted as she raised her hand over to Liz.

“NO!!” I yelled.

I pushed her out of the way before she was able to shoot.

“You want to kill someone so badly, kill me...c’mon do it...! I’m ready...just leave Liz alone! She’s carrying our children— deserves the happy life...even if that doesn’t include me, C’mon Ava... Do it—Kill me.” I shouted at her.

“Max...no...Please, I can’t...I need you...” Liz cried as she ran after him...

"Liz, Please...stay back” but then all of a sudden there was rush of pain going through me as I blacked out and my last thought was Liz..."

"MAXXXXX!" Liz screamed and rushed to his side.

Michael

I looked at Maria sitting in her room and I saw everything in her eyes. Ever since Tess left and Liz was in her coma, Maria and I’ve been close. I can’t describe it but I’ve never felt this way before. There was something about her that made me think of everything that I didn’t think was possible. I knocked on the door, never mind the fact that the door was open to begin with—but I didn’t just want to barge into her private space. She was the only girl I’d do that for.

“Hey you...How long have you been standing there?” She asked me.

I looked at her, and saw that she tried her best to smile, but it didn’t work. “Oh...not long. I was passing by and saw you in here. What are you doing?” I asked her.

She put down a book and stood up, “I was praying...” She looked at me then looked back at the ground.

I saw her wipe away tears that fell down her cheeks. “How is she doing?” I asked.

She didn’t say anything for a long time, I walked over to her and wrapped her in my arms, and I knew that there was no change.

“It’s going to be okay Maria, I promise. Liz will wake up and everything will go back to the way things should be. Look at me...” I told her as I guided my fingers under her chin to look at me.

“I won’t let anything else happen to Liz, Alexx, or you. You all have been through enough heartache and anguish. Scouts honor....that nothing will happen.” I told her, and she started to laugh.

“You were never a scout Michael.” She smiled through her tears.

“Well, you know what I mean.” I told her and she nodded.

“Come here...” I motioned towards her, and pulled her into a bear hug.

As she wrapped her arms around me, she started to cry again. I stroked her hair. “Shhh... sweetie...it’s going to be alright... I’m here... I’m not going anywhere Ava-Maria...I’m not going anywhere.” I told her over and over until her sobs calmed and she was able to pull away.

We were inches away from each other and I could feel her sweet breath on my face.

“Maria...” I started off and we were just about to kiss.

“Excuse me...Sir...” A voice rang out and we both jumped, and backed away from each other, like as if we got caught doing something we weren’t suppose to do. My face turned red.

I then turned to the servant and shouted, “Don’t ever do that again.” I held back some of my temper, only because Maria was in the room with me.

“What?” I shouted at him. He jumped and replied. “Sir, I’m sorry it’s just that you have a visitor. They want to see you right away.” the boy said, he was clearly terrified of me, and that’s the way I liked it. It kept them on their toes.

“Who is this person? Did you ask for a name?” I demanded from him.

“No sir. She wouldn’t give a name, she just said that she was family.” the kid spoke back in a hushed tone.

"Family?" I pondered at that for a moment...and no one came to mind, all my family lived on another planet. I was alone in this world so to speak. I turned back to Maria.

"Can we continue this later?" She nodded.

She went back to praying as I followed the servant down the stairs and into the sitting room, where there was girl there.

"Excuse me, Miss, can I help you?" I asked.

She turned around and ran towards me with both arms extended. "Mikey!" She shouted. "How've you been? C'mon at least say something. Aren’t you excited to see your Cousin?" She smiled at him.

I looked at her, "Isabel, what are you doing here?"

She shrugged and started to walk upstairs with her luggage.

"Where are you going?" I ran after her.

"Um...upstairs...god Mikey, you act like I'm not welcome here or something." She turned to look at me.

I didn't say anything, because as far I as I knew it, she wasn't welcome here.

"Mikey?!!" She spoke louder.

"What are you doing here Isabel? Do your parents know you're here?"

She smiled and replied, "God NO! I ran away. I’m tired of being treated like a child so I came here. I hope that's alright." She started to continue upstairs.

"WAIT!!!!!" I shouted and used my powers to freeze her.

"I hate when you do that." She rolled her eyes as I stepped in front of her.

"Explain yourself!!" I demanded.

"Only if you unfreeze me." She replied.

"Tempting offer but no." I smirked at her.

"Do I really have to tell you? I mean, you're just going to call my parents, and they'll be even more upset with me." She sighed, and quickly added. "Can you please unfreeze me, I promise I won’t go anywhere." She gave me a pleading glance, which always seemed to work, and she knew it.

"Okay..." I waved my hand over her, and she started to move her limbs.

"What are you doing here, Iz?" I asked but before she could answer I realized something--"Aren't you suppose to get married in a week or so?" I asked.

She didn't say anything, just nodded.

"If you are going to get married, why are you here?" I almost shouted but then controlled myself.

"Because, Dear cousin, I don't love him. I'm not marrying him and that's final. I've met him once, he's fat and he's old. He's a jerk and more than three times my age. I didn't choose him to be my husband, I was assigned to him. I don't want to be chained forever to man that I don't love." I sneered with disgust through my teeth.

"So you're betrothed. Who cares? That happens a lot over here, you're royalty. It's a way of nature for them. Isabel, I don't want an entire army going after me just because you didn't want to marry him." I told her sternly.

"Michael Please.... you won't even notice I'm here, I promise. Will you let me stay?" She quietly pleaded with me.

"Yeah...I guess..." I told her.

She beamed with joy and jumped up and wrapped her arms around me. I tried to pry her arms off of me.

"You can stay just as long as you will call your parents tomorrow and tell them where you are, and that you are not going through with the marriage." I looked down at her with a serious glance and she nodded.

"Okay, fine Mikey, but I just hope that I'm alive afterwards. Where is Max?" I sighed when she mentioned Max.

"He's with his soon to be wife--" I started to explain but she cut me off.

"He's married or soon to be married. Wow! When did this happen? I thought he said I could marry him?" She giggled as she looked at me.

"Iz, he told you that when you guys were ten. I think his feelings have changed for you since then.” I rolled my eyes as I lead her upstairs, and into the guest room.

Alex came out his room. "Alexx, I'd like you to meet my cousin." I stopped him.

"Isabel this is Alexx Whitman, Alex this is Isabel." I introduced him.

I saw Alexx looking at her in such a way that Isabel looked away, and blushed slightly.

"Nice to meet you, Isabel. Are you going to be staying for a bit?" Alex asked.

She couldn't say anything. She couldn't find the words to express herself so she just nodded.

"Cool, I'll be seeing you then. Michael, I gotta go see about something..." He waved at them and was off.

"Where's Tess?" She asked once Alex was out of sight and earshot.

I looked at her and lead her into the room, "We need to talk Iz..." I sighed as I shut the door behind me.

Max

I jolted awake... "Liz?" I asked.

She was still lying there motionless, just the way she was before I drifted to sleep. "Liz, come back to me..." I whispered in her ear. She moved her fingers and I jumped with joy.

"OMG baby do it again. Come back to me Liz. Baby I need you…with every fiber in my being...I need you." I exclaimed.

Elizabeth

"What just happened? Max...he was right here...” I turned my attention back to Ava. "Where did he go?" I shouted at her.

Ava yawned and stretched as she got up. "Liz, that was all a mind warp. Max was never really here, everything you just saw, felt and witnessed, it all came from within you."

"What do you want from me?" I asked her.

"I want you to see Max for who he really is...a lying, cheating scum that is just using you to impress the next woman that comes into his life."

"NO! He's not like that, he loves me. I'm not you, Ava. He didn't love you, he loves me. I'm carrying his children. He never loved you because he was waiting for me." I shouted with anger.

I could hear Max calling out for me again. "Max I'm here... I love you...don't stop...I'm coming!" I shouted and tried to run around her, but she stopped me and blasted me to the wall.

"Get back here! No one said you could go." She shouted and pinned me to the wall.

"God help me please..." I begged as I struggled to break free.

TBC...............

Chapter 4: Overcoming the greater good

~*Ava-Maria*~

“Alexxander, I’m so worried, what if she never comes out of this coma? I could’ve done something. If only I’d practiced my powers like I was supposed to. I could have stopped that bitch. I could have done something.” I couldn’t stop the rambling thoughts that continued to pour out of my mouth. My quick pacing in the room didn’t help either.

That is until Alexx stepped up and stopped me in my tracks. I didn’t even notice that I was crying. I’ve always tried to stay strong, and not let anything get to me. But then again, we had Liz, she was my rock and with her gone, I didn’t know what to do.

“You can’t think like that ‘Ria, she’s going to be okay. We have to stay strong for her, and Max as well.” ‘Stay strong right,’ I rolled my eyes but hid my face away from him so he wouldn’t see.

“My hope is going thin Alex. It’s already been two months, I seriously don’t think she’s going to m—“ I can’t finish the sentence because a sob breaks into my cracked voice, and I collapse into his arms.

“She’s not going to die Ava-Maria, you can hold me to it.” I thought back to when things were normal, back when we were little. Liz had made a promise that we would always be together, all three of us. We called ourselves the ‘Three Musketeers’.

~*~~* Flashback*~*~*~

“Lizzy, do you think we are always going be this close when we get older? I don’t think I could continue on if it means that we can’t.” I looked down at the china set as we were in the middle of having a tea party and Alexx was the waiter.

“Of course ‘Ria, we are always going to be close no matter what. We are all linked, like the three musketeers, all for one and one for all.” We all cheered and chanted as Liz firstly rose her tea glass in the air, and I followed in the same fashion.

All while Alexx changed into this solider costume, and pretended to be an actual musketeer and fight around us.

Boys I tell you. We giggled and laughed at him and we still make fun of him to this day.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“There’s something you didn’t know about Liz, she wanted to tell everyone once she was finally married, but I don’t know about that now.”

“What is it?”

“She’s pregnant with twins.” It’s almost as if it took several moments for it to register in his mind.

He even said the words over about three times before coming out of his trance.

“I guess what I’m concerned about is if they survived or not, because her stomach isn’t getting bigger, it’s staying the same. And I know that Max is trying with all that he’s got to try and save them, but I don’t think he knows that she’s pregnant with twins.”

“He’s already worried enough. It’s best not to tell him right now, not until she’s awake.” My tears stopped enough so I could look at him.

“You promise?”

“With every being in my body.” With a slight nod for myself, I had my hope once again. To tell you the truth it was the only thing that really kept me going, that and my brother Alexx. I held him tighter as we sat there in silence.

~*~Maxwell*~*~

“C’mon Maxwell, it’s worth a shot. You know Isabel. It’s not like she’s a stranger wanting to help out. You guys have been friends since you bailed her out of that rut she was in.” I looked out the window, but kept the door open just in case Liz did wake up, then I could rush across the hall to be by her side.

I still didn’t know why she was staying here but then again I really didn’t care. All I cared out was my Lizzie in that other room. What if this could be different? I’d give up everything if she and I could change places. When I did fall asleep, images and voices, they taunted me.

“She’s been trying to pay you back for that favor but you won’t hear of it. Maxwell, she wants to do this for you. She knows how important this is for you, and for all of us. We all know how this is tearing you up, you haven’t had a decent nights sleep since the incident. Let her do this one thing for you.”

I looked at my best friend, and could see the concern on his face, and I can feel myself giving in this time. I mean, what could it hurt really? I was gasping at straws here, I’d give anything just to have her awake and alert by my side.

“Okay. Tell Isabel she can owe me this one thing.”

With a quick pat on the back, Michael was out of the room leaving me alone in my study praying in a barely audible whisper.

“Please Elizabeth—come back to me.” I sighed a deeper sigh this time knowing that if this didn’t work, she might never come to and it’s all my fault.

~*~*~*Isabel*~*~*~

“Hey Mikey, I was wondering if I co---“ I stopped in mid sentence because the man before me, was not my cousin—but the most handsome creature I’ve ever set my eyes upon.


“Please forgive me, I thought you were my cousin—I didn’t mean to intrude.” I was halfway out the door before he stopped me.

“Wait, you don’t have to leave. I’ve seen you around the palace, but we haven’t really had a chance to get to know each other.” I smiled and nodded at the truth he spoke, as I walked back into the room, and sat next to him on the sofa.

“Indeed you are right, I have been here for some time now, and we haven’t really even crossed paths yet. I didn’t know that even in a palace such as this, you can live with someone and still be complete strangers at the same time.”

I started to giggle at this. I haven’t giggled since my sixteenth birthday party and was allowed to have men present for the ceremony. I giggled through most of the party, now I’m glad I’m over that stage. Well, that was until just now.

As he stood up, I saw he was more like me that I had imagined. He was bright, funny, tall, lanky, and a little dorky. Which I was also myself, but I didn’t let that side of me come out to just everyone, they had to be special—they had to be him.

“I’m Prince Alexxander Charles Whitman of the planet Earth.” I smiled at this. He was human, something different something that I could learn a thing or two from.

“It’s nice to meet you Alexxander.” I smiled as I raised my hand to shake his, which he accepted.

“I’m Isabella Danielle Sonia Guerin, you might know my dear cousin Michael Guerin.” He nodded in understanding. He had a very handsome face, with an even more pleasant smile. Very charming, and charismatic, he was someone that I’ve never really pictured myself with, but at the same time it was very easy to get attached to someone of his nature.

“Isabelle, would you be so kind to accompany me to walk through the gardens? I need some fresh air to help clear my thoughts. There is no doubt a light conversation and a beautiful, intelligent woman will intrigue me.” I looked at the smirkish smile that attempted to cover his face as I hid my blush from his words, and nodded in reply.

I did not pull my hand away as he took it in his own. In a strange way I felt complete—like this is the man that fate has been guiding to me to all these years. Even though, I’ve only known him for this very short while, I feel as if it’s been lifetimes.

‘I am very eager to see where this is going.’ I thought as I smiled at him in an innocent fashion as we made our way outside. Still awaiting word from my cousin, hopefully Max has given him his decision, so I can not only help him with his wife but also help Alexx with his sister.


~*~*~*~ Michael*~*~*~

After the conversation with Max and my promise I made to Ava-Maria a few days ago, it had me thinking of what life really has to offer.

All this time, I thought my destiny was about war, the devotion to my King and the people of Antar. Never thinking that love would ever cross paths with me, but since the moment I first saw Ava-Maria, it was like magic and I just knew.
I know it sounds corny, but there is no other way to explain this. I wished it would have been under better circumstances of us talking to each other and finding comfort in them.

But my worries for Maxwell, and hers for Elizabeth—the worry has pretty much taken over our day to day routine. I tend to worry more about her on days, not every day but when the day that presumes itself where it looks like she’s going to have a nervous breakdown I’m always there by her side talking her through it.

But today is different. She looks scared, there is hardly any emotion left in her face. Now is when I worry. I should say something. I’ve been standing here in the doorframe starring at her for the past several minutes and believe it or not she hasn’t even drawn an eye to my attention.

Feeling awkward still standing there, I coughed a bit and she jumped out of her gaze and ran into my arms the moment she realized it was me.

“’Ria, what’s wrong? You’re trembling...” I coaxed her as she began to cry, her arms clung around my neck. I couldn’t help holding her tighter against me.

Finally several minutes later she was able to voice her thoughts, but it was only a mere whisper. I had to strain my head to hear her, “It’s my fault...” She cried out with a sob in the middle of her throat.

“What’s your fault?” I asked almost confused at the situation she was in.

“Liz. It’s my fault she’s in a coma.” She cried as she broke free of my grasp and fell onto the chair besides her, thankful it was there and that she didn’t fall on the floor.

“Maria, it’s not you’re fault—how could you even think that. It’s Tess’s fault, she’s the one who did this. You did nothing wrong.” I lifted her chin so her eyes looked into my own, and with my fingers I gently wiped away her tears.

“No, you don’t understand...” She stated as she pulled my hands away from her, got up and started to pace the room once more.

“When I was little, we had to attend these classes to practice our powers, how to control them, use them when we needed to. I never took them seriously, I attended but didn’t practice like Liz or Alexx did. I could never control my powers. I could practice for nine hours a day and I’d still suck at it. Something was always off and I didn’t know what else I could do. Until one day I just stopped going. I told my dad, that we were going to the class but while the others went, I made up this story saying I didn’t feel well. And they’d excuse me, instead of going home I’d go to the mall.”

“But when Liz was attacked by Tess, I saw it happen. But when I reached out my hand to stop her nothing happened. Don’t you see? I could’ve stopped her, I had these special powers but what are they worth if I can’t even control them?”

“What kind of sister am I? It’s my fault she’s laying in that bed—I should have stepped in the way, I’m the one who should be lying in that bed.”

“I can’t take it anymore!” She cried in deeper sobs and fell to the ground, in a split second I was at her side.

Trying my best to smooth her, just holding her broken fragile body in my arms filled me with a rage I never knew possible.

I was determined to get Tess and Kyle and make them pay for not only what they did to Elizabeth, his father, her own parents but for everyone. The pain he caused for everyone in this palace was too much emotion for one family to go through.

I couldn’t find words to say. I could only hold her and let her cry it out. But I did know that I would hold her all day and all night if I had to, I’d do anything for her.

~*~*~*~Maxwell*~*~*~

Walking up to the bed, the maid just got finished bathing her. Whatever happened to the spirited girl that loved life and laughter? It seemed like so long ago when I held her in my arms.

I wanted her back with me. I love this woman more than anything in this lifetime. Before she came here I didn’t even know I was possible of love, yeah...I heard from my father about my betrothed. But I never knew in a million years, that she would actually be the one.

Now that I’ve found her, I didn’t want to lose her. I vowed to myself that even if she didn’t survive this...I would take revenge over my sister.

Looking at Liz now, gently touching her face. Her soft skin like rose petals just after the blossoms bloom on a spring day.

“Lizzy, come back to me. I love you, I want to be your husband. I want to love you until the day I die. I want to raise our children, with you by my side. I want to rule Antar, with you as my queen. Come back to me love, my sweet, sweet Elizabeth.” I placed my hand over her once more.

My energy surging through my body into hers—so strong...so determined to heal her, but just like all the other times...nothing happened.

I felt guilty.

“Liz, I’m sorry for everything. I’m so sorry...” I laid my head on her chest and cried gentle sobs.

~*~*~Elizabeth*~*~*

“Ah...isn’t that sweet. The almighty King of Antar crying over a little pathetic thing like you.” Ava laughed as I tried get up from her burning grip that was pinning me to the ground.

“You know I don’t know what he sees in you. All I see is a girl trying to be a woman, trying to be a queen. He loved me twice as much as he loves you, or that he claims to love you.” That’s it. I can feel my power surging. The burning from her grasp and the tingling from my rage...I blast her across the garden.

“That’s it, you stupid bitch!” I raise my hand and blast her again.

“You’re quite powerful for a mere human but I can take you. You aren’t as strong as you think you are—“ I cut her off as I blasted her again, and she crashed onto the ground. I couldn’t stop the grin that formed on my face.

“Shut up, and fight you little bitch. Only if that’s what you intend to do?” I held up my hand in front of me, she didn’t move but burst into a fit of laughter.

“All these words—they’re just words. You know, I never quite got how humans fight with words rather than actions.” Ava blasted a surge of energy at me. I tried to get out of the way, but her powers were too quick—too powerful.

“You see, Princess...” She replied with emphasis sarcasm and distain for the title ‘princess’.

I tried to get up but it felt like I was paralyzed to ground. What was I going to do now? I am going to lose. Lose my family, my life, my children, and the love of my life.

“Max...” I whispered as everything went black.

~*~*~ Maxwell*~*~

“Max...” My head shot up and for the first time in a month I had my hope again. She spoke, Liz spoke! It almost sounded like a plea. Something was holding her back.

“Guards! Guards!!” I shouted my beckon, they came at once and bowed before me.

“Summons Isabelle Guerin at once.” I stood before them. They left following my orders and they bowed as they scurried off. I returned to Liz’s side.

“Hold on my love. We’re going to bring you back, I’m not going to let you die. Stay with me baby please stay with me.” I held her hand and smoothed her hair from her face.

*~*~*~Tess*~*~*~

“No, it’s not about that. It’s about revenge. I will not have my brother make a fool of me. I am tried of bowing to him, and everyone that is under my control taking fear in him. He is nothing! I want Antar and it will be mine.” I cannot believe my council would turn their backs on me. The only one who ever supported what I did was my dear husband.

At times, my emotion gets the best of me and in the middle of a meeting with other world leaders, I have to excuse myself. But in a way I think it’s what they expect from a woman. I’d wished I didn’t go down to that level but now, I find myself doing that more and more ever since Kyle died in war against Saturn, and their king Jaxson.

The following week out of anger and anguish I wiped out his ruling city and I control that now. I will never forget how I pleaded with my beloved to let the soldiers take care of the battling, but he would hear nothing of it.

****Flashback****

“Tessina, my darling. This is something I have to do, some thing that I need to do. I will not be seen as a coward, you must understand that.” I felt as he cupped my face, and held me tight to his own body.

I wanted nothing more than for him to stay with me. I had a feeling deep within, a sad and sorrowful feeling of emotion that didn’t settle with me for the last prior days.
But no matter what I said or how I said it, he wouldn’t budge. You couldn’t break or change his mind once it was set.

“I know, Kyle I know.” I wept as he held me. I had wanted to tell him about my gut feeling but even if I told him he would say it’s nothing, just me trying to be a protective wife, and he would still fight in this battle.

“But my love, why can’t you let the soldiers handle this just this one time, my feelings unease me. I fear that I cannot bear to lose you.” I sobbed harder into his chest as he held me in that one spot of comfort.

Only he has seen me in this state, seen me weep but the only time I have cried was for him. My love, my heart, my everything, for he is and always will be my husband.

“Hush, my dear wife. Do not cry for me please, I will be safe. But if I do not fight the people of Mars, our people will see that we are weak in risking other people’s lives and not fighting for our own.

I have to go love, for there is no other solution.” I nodded in reply knowing that not even my desperate pleas for him to stay, wasn’t enough for him. At that instant that he left I knew that I had lost my love forever.

***** END FLASHBACK********

~*~*~ Serena*~*~

“Your grace?” I was cautious to disturb her thoughts, I knew of many people telling me not to do so for once people tried that when they came to rule, your Lady grace, Tessina had them killed.

Everyone in the palace feared her, and when her beloved died in the battle against Saturn many people were sadden saying that he killed the wrong royal.

Sad to say it, but even I the most trusted servants of the queen wished it to be true as well. Even though I didn’t show it to the common eye, I was more frightened of what she might do it me behind closed doors.

I am part of the rebellion to get her off the throne, and every session alone with her counts. Once I have something to feed off I will report it immediately.

But then again, I don’t know why she favors me so? I am just a peasant girl just trying to keep myself alive, and have money to buy a decent meal at the end of each working day.

I never really understood why she favored me more. I didn’t do anything of the norm with her as I did for his kingship Kyle. He was kind, gentle, and I admit I did admire him but from afar as did everyone. The entire village didn’t understand how he could love a monster like Tessina.

The only reason I took this job was because the rebellion relied on facts to feed off of, and I was sent mostly as a spy of the palace. So when your grace Tess befriended me that only grew their hunger to take her down.

Breaking out of my thoughts, and seeing that the queen was now weeping, I’m guessing she was thinking about her beloved Kyle.

As I turned to leave her staying room, her voice stopped me in motion.

“Miss Serena, there you are. I was wondering if you might keep me company in the gardens for this afternoon.” I gave a slight curtsey and gave a soft reply.

“As you wish Your Grace.” I noticed other spies in the palace placed as servants. Like myself, stare at me as I followed the Queen out into the gardens. I know my friends had hope that this time I would succeed with information to destroy the lady that trusted me the most.

~*~*~*~ Isabel*~*~*~

“Miss Guerin, the King your majesty requests your company at once.” The servant stops in front of me, I can see Alex out of the corner of my eye. The cautious look that he gave as soon as he addressed me as Miss Guerin.

“Will you please excuse me my lord Alexxander?” I curtseyed, and kindly excused myself from the gardens and followed the servant back to the king’s stays.

When we first reached him, I didn’t think it was him. I was used to seeing him strong and head carried high. Always showered, always looking his absolute best. But now, that I see him in this moment, he doesn’t look like royalty, but almost peasant like. A rough dark shadow covered his chin, it looks like he has not shaven in several days. He has not even slept for that matter. Maybe he truly does love this woman he does not even get up to greet me, but stays clutched to her hands.

I only pray that I will be strong enough to help them.

“Isabel, I pray for you to help my beloved to be wife. If she does not wake up soon, I fear that she will parish. I cannot lose her, she is all that I have.” I looked up at him more seriously and I could see tears in his eyes as he almost pleaded to me to help.

“Maxwell, I’ll do my best---I’ll do my best.” He nodded as I looked around the room for a picture of the queen to be.
I found one across the room, the picture included her brother and sister. It must have been one of her own from Earth.

“I-I don’t know how long this will take Maxwell.” He nodded and at one instant I was awake then asleep, and reached the depths of her dreams.

~*~*~*~Serena~*~*~*~

The day was finally over, and I didn’t even bother going home. I was still reeling from what the queen revealed to me this afternoon.

The meeting was about to start, and I was running through the market streets trying not to crash into anyone.

“Tommie wait...wait for me!” I shouted over the crowd as I saw my childhood friend running ahead of me, he was also in the rebellion.

He held off running, and waited for me. Once I caught up he held his hand out to me, once his hand clasped into mine we continued running across town.

I had always loved Tommie, since we were twelve years old. Ever since he saved me from a bullying guy that always picked on me at school.

Ever since then we’ve been inseparable, best friends that always do everything together. But now, I was wondering if ever he was going to make a move.

Finally we reached the apartment complex that we met up in once a week to discuss what actions needs to be taken, it was nothing to hide—only the royal courts had no idea that this was going on.

When we walked in the meeting was already starting, but that didn’t stop people from staring at me. I heard some people whispering, and pointing at me. They already knew that I worked in the palace, but I guess word spread around like a wildfire when the Queen herself asked for my company.

“There she is. Serena Phzaha, what eager news did the devilish queen whisper in your ear this afternoon?” I was much surprised to be addressed in my full name, they never did that before, but I could help but smile at how they took me seriously now.

Not just another young woman trying to be in the rebellion, trying to get noticed—but I am in the rebellion. Tommie pushed me forward to address the entire group, but how do I start off such a difficult matter.

“Serena, what did the queen talk about?” One voice shouted out from the back of the room.

“She talked about taking her next strike against Antar.” Many voices overpowered mine, no one understood why the queen would take this risk against Mars.

Everyone knew King Maxwell to be a kind and gentle king but no one knew the secret that I learned today.

“Why does she want to hit Antar? Antar has been one of the few planets that were most kind to us?” I braced myself for what I was about to tell them.

“She wishes to take revenge against her brother and take over ruling Antar after she kills him.” A harsh gasp rang around the room. That was the queen’s most kept secret. Everyone knew that Maxwell had a younger sister but no one would have guess that it was Tess.

I went on to discuss the reason how she ended up here on Mars, and by the end of it all everyone hated her more than ever before.

“What action needs to be taken?” One of the leaders rebellion voice rang out to calm down the group. I returned my stance beside my dear friend Tommie. He took me by surprise as he took his hand in my own.

Many voices rang out as choices, but one suggested a warning to the Antar king. Much to my surprise it was my own name that was voiced to warn the king, and at the end it turned out that they all agreed.

“Serena Phzarha and Tommie Ziera will warn the king of Antar at once. Who knows when the crazed Queen will strike. But once you go...you will not be able to return until the Queen is overturned. Stay and seek refuge.” I was glad that he was at least coming with me. I would not have to face things on my own.

I was happy to be staying there on Antar, I had feared many times in the past at what Mars had become ever since the king was exiled and Tess and Kyle took over. Things only went downhill from there. I was glad that Tess was getting her own now.

One member of the rebellion escorted us to our homes to gather up what we could carry on our trip. Being careful not to talk to anyone on the way, that no one would be sworn to secrecy if the royal guard were to question them.

Once inside the ship to start our departure, I was a little hesitant. “Tommie, do you think we are doing the right thing?” He looked down at me with those big green eyes, which I melted into every time.

He could always tell if I was uneasy in a situation, and I guess this was one of those times. He gently raised his hand to cup my cheek and I wanted so much for him to kiss me in that moment but he didn’t. He only whispered to me, “Have no worries dear Serena. Everything will be alright.” I watched as his eyes returned to controlling the ship as we cruised up into the sky and out of Mars atmosphere, and headed to Antar.

‘I only wish so Tom...I only wish.’ I said to myself as my eyes drifted to sleep. It would be several hours before we would land.


~*~*~ Elizabeth*~*~


I woke up with hope that I would be back at home with Max, and my family but that was far from where I truly was. With a black cloud buzzing around my head, and that Ava chic standing over me, almost circling me like a vulture.

“What do you want from me?” I moaned as I tried to get up, but failed.

“Oh, little Lizzy. It’s nothing that I want from you, but I want to be you. I want the life that I never had and once you give up, you’ll die and I’ll take over your body. Finally Maxwell will love me, and I’ll be Queen.” Is this what this bitch wanted, was to be queen? That’s not even what I wanted. Never ever since I was a little girl on Earth, I hated the idea of being royalty.

“Well, step off bitch that isn’t going to happen, I love Maxwell and he loves me.” I spat in her face as I steadily climbed up and stood in front of her. Seeing her now face to face I saw that she was just as fragile as me, and at that moment I knew that she wasn’t as powerful as she thinks she is.

I built up my powers to blast her with as much strength as I could build within myself, and sent her flying into the night sky, only then did I see someone—another blonde haired girl.

“What do you want? What do you want?!!” I shouted at her not what to expect, I was as cautious as I should be.

~*~*~Isabel*~*~

‘No, it couldn’t be Ava in the afterlife—she died seven years ago.’ I thought to myself as I saw the brunette blast her into the night sky, or the dream that she’s currently in that she can’t get out of.

Her fearful eyes now look at me, even more scared waiting for me not make my move but I don’t.

“What do you want? WHAT DO YOU WANT?!!” She shouts at me and I don’t make any sudden movements afraid that she’s going to do the same for me.

“It’s okay...It’s okay...I’m Isabel Guerin. I’m Michaels cousin. Maxwell asked me to help you. I’m in your dream. That’s one of my powers—dream walking. I want to help you Elizabeth, I want to help you return to Antar and back to your love.” Her eyes shot to mine as I mentioned Antar and her love. I pleaded her with my eyes, and she understood. She lowered her hand and looked around for Ava to return.

“You blasted her pretty far it will be several minutes before she will return.” Liz looked at me, and wondered how I knew what she was looking at or for when she didn’t even mention it out loud.

“You didn’t have to Elizabeth. This is your dream...your thoughts are everywhere. I know how much you love Maxwell, and he loves you just the same. While in here you think it’s been days since the accident occurred but for us, it’s been months. Max has been by your side every single day, and he is blaming himself for this accident. We need to get you out of here, but I didn’t know that a creature of the afterlife has been taunting you.” The smile on her face came and went when I last mentioned her beloved—and faded more when I mentioned Ava.

“This is your final test Elizabeth you must destroy Ava in order to return to Maxwell.” She started to shake her head in denial and spoke.

“I’ve tried, but nothing works. My powers don’t work against her.” I watched as her body sank to the floor.

“No, you must have faith...you must hold on. You have more power and more strength than you think you do. Aim a blast directly into her heart—that will kill her—and only then will you become one with yourself, and that will allow yourself to return to Antar.”

I watched from a distance as Ava returned—mocking Liz for having such power for a human—and when she wasn’t paying attention Liz screamed at her and blasted her straight in the heart.

“No!” Ava screamed as she felt all her limbs turn to a bright amber light and shatter into nothingness.

Finally the nightmare will be over. As I watched Liz fall back down to the dirt ground, the wedding dress falling from her body as her body was no more. Her task was complete, and home hopefully she would return.

With a jolt I woke up with Michael standing over me, and I stood up with a sudden motion.

“Is she alright...Is she awake?” I questioned as he pulled me back to the couch to catch my breath.

~*~*~Maxwell*~*~
The entire time I watch Isabel. I had watched her dream walk someone before but never have I had something as great as my life involved. This had to work, it was the only way...the only way to get Liz back to me.

I hung onto her hand and prayed silent prayers for her to return to me.

With one motion I thought an Angel touched my head, I thought I lost her but then her voice broke my thoughts.

“My love...Maxwell...” her gentle fingers brushed my hair out of my face and wiped away my tears.

I watched as she was a gleam of hope and happiness shown in my eyes. I gently kissed her lips and whispered to her, and prayed that I wouldn’t cry as much as I already have.

“I thought I lost you, for a while there.” She shook her head and cupped my rugged haired cheek into her hand and whispered.

“My love is too great and too powerful to leave you now Maxwell.” I knew for the first time in long time that love can overcome anything—even overcoming the greater good.

TBC.........

Chapter 5: The Rebellious lives on...


Elizabeth


It felt strange to be moving around again, Max was still cautious of me moving around constantly, but as the days went on I’m surprised at how big I got—I thought for sure that my pregnancy would end considering the time I was in that coma.

But still my stomach grew, and more and more the father of my children was concerned. It made me smile whenever he would come into a room, and find me doing something that the maids were supposed to be doing. I didn’t mind doing it myself, but still he kept right on.

I admit I was still a little concerned about my babies, if they were alright but Max connected to them and made it perfectly clear that they were in fact all right. I was happy for that.

But it was the threat of Tess coming back to Antar that really concerned me the most about having my babies born. Mainly because I knew they would be her main target, first the children and then me. I had a right to be afraid, but I knew in my heart that Max would keep me safe—even if it meant killing his own sister.

As harsh as that sounds, I wouldn’t want her to be killed just for fun but I was worried about her returning and finishing off what she had already planned to do the moment my brother and sister stepped onto this planet.

“Liz.” I heard my voice echo in the main hall. I haven’t walked in two days because of Max’s strict orders to stay in bed.


Instead of listening to Isabel’s voice that continued to follow me, I walked until I made it to the sitting room—my favorite room in the entire palace, and sat as I gazed out of the huge window that overlooked our people.

The amber lit sky and the several moons were out in full glow today, even earlier to be expected. It was a change of seasons but there was a strange ship hovering that I’ve never seen before.

“Liz, there you are! Alex has been looking for you everywhere, he says---“ I immediately jumped up from my seat and half scaring Lonnie because I almost fainted.

“Max, I need to see Max at once.” Her grasp was tight on me, and she tried to hold me up right.

“But you can’t...he’s in a meeting.” Screw the god forsaken meetings! I don’t care right now.

“I don’t care...take me to him at once.” I think she knew better than to question my orders, because she didn’t voice her concern again, but mainly took me to the third level meeting rooms.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Maxwell


“Your Majesty...the Queen would like to have a word with you.” One of the servants came in and handed me a note. Liz knew how important my weekly meetings were when it contained the rulers from the other worlds.

I didn’t have to wait for another word from Liz to know it was important—she wouldn’t have disturbed me otherwise.

I ran out of the room, and didn’t even answer to anyone’s voices as they yelled after me to stop, but I chose to ignore them. The only thing that mattered was Liz.

“Isabel, what’s wrong...is Liz alright? Is it the baby...?” What...I’m rambling okay, who cares.

“No, everything is okay. It’s just, Liz had the sudden urge to talk to you. She was a little over excited on the way up here and nearly fainted.”

“What?! Where is she?” Just the fact that I almost lost her a week ago, has had me up on the edge ever since.

The thought of losing her now, after all we’ve been through has been too much to bear. Now, that she’s alright, I’m making sure she stays that way.

“She’s waiting for you in your office.” I was already running out of the room and into my office before she was even finished with the sentence.

“Lizzy, what is it? What’s wrong?” She was standing by the window looking out into the amber lit sky, I was half expecting her to be sitting down. But not surprised to find that she wasn’t.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Elizabeth

I knew Max was worried, and I didn’t mean to put such a dramatic panic alert on display—but that same ship was still hovering closer and closer and practically aimed towards us.

“Liz?” I could hear Max’s steps moving closer and closer to me.

“Do you see that?” I asked him as I pointed up to the sky.

“Yes, it’s just a space craft Liz.” He sounded so calm; well anyone would sound calm compared to me.

“It has the Mars logo on it, what if Tess is on board—what if she wants to finish off what she started? If she finds out that I’m pregnant Max, she’s going to kill me and the babies. I can’t let that happen---she can’t be here, she just can’t.” I cried out as I spun around only to be wrapped in his warm embrace and comforting words.

“Sh...Liz, it’s not Tess—I’ll send Rath to check it out, whatever it is...I’m sure it’s nothing. But what I do need you to do is to calm down, the added stress isn’t good for the baby.”

All I could really do was nod and let Max lead me to the chair, and he also handed me a glass of water.

I had a feeling that things were only going to get shaky from here, that feeling in the pit of my stomach was never wrong.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Serena


We’re almost there and I’ve haven’t had contact with our supposed Queen in nearly a week, I’m so scared right now that I don’t even know if some of the other maids have ratted me out yet.

If so, I wouldn’t be surprised—those people, her actual followers take such pride in nosing in business that doesn’t contain them.

Tommie looks more serious as he computes some ratio figures as we set forth to a hopefully smooth landing.

We haven’t really said anything to each other, I was hoping for some insight on just what our plan was going to look like but he’s still silent. One thing I am certain of is that he’s so handsome.

What? I still can’t get over that---oh, and the fact that I love him.

I couldn’t take it anymore, I broke the silence—it was driving me insane.

“What to you expect once we land?” I was scared of what the infamous King Maxwell might do to us, but I knew with Tommie by my side that things were going to be alright.

Well, okay...I haven’t really convinced myself on that part yet, but I certainly knew that it’s what I was hoping for.

“We’re going to be taken prisoner, but we will plead “Goethe” when our captures get a hold of us, this way they cannot do anything to us because we need to talk to the king.”

He knew what needed to be done, and it was all up to me to put my full faith in him, I think he could sense my hesitation because he walked closer to me.

“Serena, I give you my word that everything is going to be alright...I’ll protect you.” That was the most heavenly thing he’s ever said to me, I think I’m melting.

It looks like he’s going to kiss me, but he only brushes my bangs out of my eyes and starts to move around me again like nothing happened.

Like that little moment we had, was never there. Now that’s something I can’t ignore, and I think I’m blushing right now.

I distract myself by looking out at the Antarian city below and only hope for the best, as he continues to work around me.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Tess

“Where is she?!” I’ve lined up all my servants and I’m pacing back and forth of the full line of staff in front of me.

No one has been issued to leave the planet without authorization from me and me alone.

The Rebellions have been captured, but were guaranteed to be let go once they provide me with the appropriate information.

But much to my surprise, they’d rather be starved than to tell me anything—oh well, their loss.

I shrug it off...there’s nothing more I can really do.

But I told these servant things that I’ve only told my late husband, and to find out that she was part of the rebellion against my power, angered me ten times the amount to kill my brother.

How could I be so foolish, to trust someone? Someone other than my beloved Kyle but he’s gone now. Everyday it gets a little bit easier—but it still leaves me with craving that feeling to connect with some one.

That’s when someone’s voice rang out among the crowd of the servants, it was male.

“I know, Your Majesty, but I can only tell you in secret privacy.” I merely nodded. What harm could it do, plus he was handsome.
I couldn’t resist, what I can say.

Everyone left the large hall leaving him and myself looking at each other, I wondered what he had to say to me and if I would believe him in the end.

“What is your name?” He smirked as he inched closer and closer to me—and started circling me like a raven in humid heated air.

“Kavas.” He was divine and handsome. I could find myself falling for him and fast.

“What do you know about Serena’s whereabouts…uh…Kavas?” He kept circling me, like I was his last supper.

“Your Grace, I’ve been watching you and you are most saddened by your late husband’s death. I have been a devoted servant, giving you nothing but the best care. I know that if I provide you with this information, you will be indebted to me.”

“What makes you think I will follow through with your orders?” I couldn’t hide the smirk that was now on my face, I knew what he was getting at.

“I believe you know, Your Grace.” My face grew red as he stopped and pressed his body against mine.

His lips were automatically grazing my neck and his hands over my body, touching anywhere that he could.

“I think something could be arranged.” I told him huskily as I grabbed his hand and I made my way through the secret passage door to my state room.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~****~*~*~*~*~*~

Maxwell

After calling Michael to ask him to see what the commotion is all about, and to ease the nerves of my beloved—I took my wife in my arms and carried her down a flight of stairs and into bed where she belongs.

But she didn’t go quietly, I can say that for sure.

Seeing that we’re both stubborn, she wanted to say with me and it’s highly unsafe for her or our children. I kept on with my decision even when she demanded for me to put her down.

Call me stubborn but she needs rest, not added on stress.

“Maxwell, put me down this instant!” she huffed, and I reluctantly obeyed but only because we were in our room now.

I laid her in our bed and covered her with the comforter, and sat down next to her, mainly because she kept trying to get up.

“Maxwell, I’m tired of resting and sleeping. I’m alright now.” I know that, but she’s not fully energized yet, and sleep is the only thing that can fix that.

“Darling, you need your rest. Not only for you but for the baby, I don’t want anything to happen to you.” She doesn’t argue, and it’s something I’m glad for.

But it didn’t take her long to come up with something to object.

“What if it is Tess? What if she’s come back to kill us all, I couldn’t live with myself if I lost you, and I wasn’t around to save you.” Tears were coming out of her beautiful brown eyes, and it hit me like a ton of bricks.

I took her in my arms, and calmed her down as she shook with sobs.

“Nothing is going to happen to us, I promise. Whoever is on that ship I’m certain that it’s not my sister. She’s wouldn’t just show up without a plan, she’s smarter than that but if and when she shows up, you’ll be by my side no matter what.

You’re my strength, my reason for living, you’re my everything, Elizabeth. I love you with everything that’s inside of me, and you make me a better man and a better King to our people.

And for that I could never leave you behind—I just want to keep you safe.” I wiped away her tears and she threw her arms around me in quick motion that almost had me flying back.

“I know Max, I know. I feel the same way, it’s just---I—I want to be there for you in every way, shape and form. It makes me feel like a bad wife and queen knowing that I can’t do either one of those things for you right now.” She looked down at her hands like her words might have burned me if she looked up.

“Liz.” That quiet whisper was all it took for her eyes to find mine and knowing that we aren’t married yet but she feels like we are, fills my heart with so much joy inside that I can almost burst.

Words couldn’t fit into a moment like this—only actions.

I cupped her face into my hands and kissed her with all the passion, love, and just how much I wanted to be hers forever.

We eagerly kissed as I laid down next her as the kisses and the flashes we were sending each other got more intense.

‘Knock, knock, knock.’ The abrupt sound broke us apart, and my head collapsed back on the bed as we both tried to calm down our breathing.
“Your Majesty, Sir Michael summons your attention in your office.” There is never a spare time with my beloved.

“Ah, there’s never a dull moment in this palace.” I huffed and rolled over to lay on my side, for a couple of minutes we just looked at each other and if was her that broke the silence.

“You should go. You know how Michael gets if you make him wait long—and the last thing I want is him trying to break down the door.”

I smirked because it was true. He had the patience of a five year old boy but there was one person who could set him straight, and surprisingly it’s not me...but Ava-Maria, Liz’s little sister.

“I promise I will fill you in on what everything is about—but you should get your rest.” She nodded knowing that there is truth in what I speak.

“Be careful.” she whispered to me as I bent down to give her one final kiss.

We broke apart, both panting and wanting more, but knowing that we can’t. I regretfully let go for my own sake, not wanting to let her out of my sight.

“Always love, always.” I smiled and smirked as I walked out of the door.

Deeply sighing once Liz was out of ear shot, and making my way to my office.

“Michael, this had better be good.” I walked into the room, but then quickly noticed that he wasn’t alone.

Two unfamiliar faces looked me square in the eye, as Michael walked over to me—to address me who they were.

“They insisted to talk to you, they pleaded ‘“Goethe”, you know rules are rules no matter what planet they come from.” I nodded, it was true—if they proclaimed that pardon to begin with, they must have something on their minds to talk about.

“Who are you?” I asked coldly as Michael walked to the door and stood his ground there, as I walked behind my desk and sat down.

The man spoke up first, but not without casing a look to the woman first, she nodded and he went along with it.

“I am Tommie and this is Serena—we come to be a warning to you, your Majesty.” A warning...what kind of warning?

The man stood strong as the woman proceeded to talk.

“We’ve come to warn you, of your sister’s plans to seek revenge.” It was those words, words of my demented sister that made me stand up with fury.

“Did she send you?” I sneered with disgust.

“No...Your Majesty, I swear.” She sounded certain, but who know what kind of sneaky snakes my sister has working for her.

“Who sent you then?” I had to get to the bottom of this.

“The Rebellion—we are a part of the Rebellion.” It was those words that made my fear drop from my body, they were here to help.

Maybe with their help, we would be able to take over my sister’s ruling—and end her days.

After what she did to Elizabeth and our entire family, I want nothing more than for her to die.

We shall see who lives to see the next day.

TBC...