Title: “Forgotten”

Author: Jen

E-mail: Lizparker25@cs.com

Rating: PG-13

Category: M/L

Summary: Liz never came home after the events in the episode ‘Destiny.’ Aliens Rel and Anni come to Roswell, along with Max and Isabel’s mother in search of the Royal 4. Instead, their lives become much more complicated as the evil alien Tarnus uses his second-in-command to brainwash Max…

Spoilers: Only the first season. Since it takes place after ‘Destiny’ the second season does not exist in my timeline.

Disclaimer: The characters or events (relating to the episodes) of Roswell do not belong to me, etc. I did create Anni, Shawna, Kevin, and Tarnus however. But other than that, it’s all Jason Katims and the rest of the Roswell staff. Oh, and the song lyrics used belong to Dido and Backstreet Boys, and the Star Wars mention is due to the genius of George Lucas’s universe.

Note: Thank you Linda for letting me use your idea on Tess. I don’t know what this story would be if I didn’t use it. This one’s dedicated to you; you’re one of my best friends ever. And thanks to all my friends and the people on the message board who encouraged me to finish this. Feedback is definitely appreciated, please!!!! Hope you like the story.

***

“I didn’t hear you leave,
I wonder how am I still here.
I don’t want to move a thing,
It might change my memory.”

-Dido, “Here With Me,” No Angel

***

Two Years Ago: May 2000, the pod cave, located just outside Roswell, New Mexico

“Liz. Liz, wait!” Max Evans shouted a desperate plea out into the desert as he watched his only love run from everything that they had discovered. Liz Parker turned and looked at him once more and their eyes met. Then returned to her original path and ran on.

Max felt a forceful grip, as he was about to run after her. “You’ve gotta let her go,” Michael Guerin, his best friend, told him. Max stood there, staring out into space as his sister Isabel and the fourth alien in their group, Tess Harding, joined Max and Michael. He could never let Liz go, he needed her too much.

“What happens now Max?” Tess asked quietly, secretly pleased that Liz had left and had finally come to her senses. Max didn’t reply. He didn’t want to speak.

*~*~*~*~*

Liz hurried down the dirt path. She had looked back once and knew that it was a mistake. Just seeing his hurt expression, the confusion and pain in Max’s eyes made her want to run back to him. But Liz knew she couldn’t go back. Max had a destiny. He had a pre-chosen mate from another life, and an entire planet to win back. She couldn’t interfere. She had to be strong and show him what is best. It was better for him, even if they had to live with the heartbreak. Slowly, she stopped running and began to walk, brushing her silky brown hair out of her face…

Finally, after being lost a couple of days, Liz stood upon a rock peak. She had found the highway that would take her back to her home in Roswell. Carefully, she started to lower herself down the rock face. Suddenly, her footing slipped and she fell. Her head hit a piece of stone and everything went black for the teen. Liz’s body tumbled down the rest of the hill, to the side of the road.

A small green Volkswagen beetle was driving down the road to Albuquerque. Inside was a woman of medium height. She had blond hair and the brown eyes found only amongst three of the aliens residing in Roswell. Seeing the girl lying on the road, the newcomer to this planet quickly stopped her car. She lifted up Liz’s body and placed her in the back seat to bring the girl to her home in Albuquerque, where the woman would be able to fix and damages the girl had sustained.

*~*~*~*~*

Present Day: June 28, 2002, Highland High, located in Albuquerque, New Mexico

“I am so glad today’s the last day of school,” Rel Kiltalpha told her best friend as they walked toward their lockers to empty them out. She brushed her slightly longer than shoulder length, straight brown hair out of her face.

“Rel,” Anni Rigel complained, “How can you be saying that? You were valedictorian. You’re the smartest in the class. You are supposed to like school.” Anni’s deep brown eyes sparkled with hidden laughter, amused that her pal was becoming annoyed. Her long, curly red hair was scooped up in a ponytail.

“Anni, you know I’m excited about the summer.” Rel dropped her voice to a whisper, “Shawna and your parents promised us that we could go on the search with them this summer instead of staying with Kevin. And Shawna said she’s heard rumors of paranormal activity in Roswell in the past. Meaning, that might be where our leaders are.” A huge grin spread across Rel’s face.

“Yeah. It will be fun going to Roswell for the UFO festival. It’s so pointless. All the commotion humans make over aliens.” Anni replied and then diverted her gaze. “Oh Rel,” she said in a singsong voice, “look who’s coming your way. Have fun,” she said and headed towards her homeroom.

“Rel, it’s nice to see you.” Matt Webster, the former captain of the Highland High’s football team greeted Rel. He leaned against the locker next to Rel’s, placing his book bag on the floor. He tucked a strand of his shaggy blond hair behind his ear and his piercing blue eyes looked at the girl.

“Hi Matt,” Rel replied while continuing to empty out her locker. “Looking forward to the summer?”

“Yeah. Anyway, I was wondering if you wanted to go out with me this Friday. School will be over, so you won’t have to worry about studying or anything.”

“You mean a date?” Rel replied, not shocked but worried. “I’m so sorry Matt, but Shawna and I are leaving with the Rigels tomorrow for the summer vacation. Maybe when I come back, before I leave for Harvard,” she quickly added in, not wanting to disappoint him.

“Where are you going?” he asked.

“Roswell,” Rel replied, leaving out the purpose of their visit.

“Oh, have fun with the aliens,” Matt joked, “Make sure any don’t abduct you.”

“Bye,” Rel replied tersely, not appreciating his humor on aliens. She headed inside homeroom to get her report card.

“See ya later!” Matt shouted, standing in the hallway, “Hey, don’t forget to send me a postcard!”

*~*~*~*~*

“Hi Shawna, I’m home,” Rel shouted into the house that had been her home for the last two years, the only home that she could remember. As far as Rel knew, she had no family on Earth, since almost all the Aldaberanians were enslaved on their home world of Aldaberan. The Queen Shawna Rana Kiltalpha had come to Earth with her guard, and Anni’s family, after a beacon was activated from the orbs Shawna sent to earth almost 60 years ago with her children. They had been trying to find them ever since arriving on this planet two years ago, unable to contact the leaders’ guardian, Nasedo. Shawna and the Rigels feared the worse, but knew the leaders had to survive.

But while driving to her new home, Shawna had found an unconscious Rel on the side of the road. When Rel awoke at Shawna’s house, Anni had immediately befriended her. Kevin, Shawna’s human guard, kept claiming she looked familiar, but Rel could remember nothing of her life. Since then, Shawna had been raising Rel as her own child.

“Rel Talitha Kiltalpha!” Shawna shouted, “Come into the kitchen dear. I want to see your report card.”

Rel entered the kitchen area and handed Shawna her grades. She then proceeded to the sink, where she grabbed a mug, and poured some water into it. Rel reached into the cupboard and took out a bottle of tobasco sauce and a tea pack. She placed both into her cup and waved her hand quickly over the top. Instantly, the tea had been boiled. “So, what do you think of it?”

“Excellent, dear. Excellent, of course. I wouldn’t expect anything less.” Shawna walked over towards Rel. “Are you ready for tomorrow? We leave early.”

“Yeah, I just have to finish packing my bag.” Rel replied when the door burst open.

“Rel! Rel! Rel! You have to see what I just found!” Anni came running in, excited. Only when she stopped to catch her breath did she notice Shawna in the room too. “Your majesty,” Anni bowed.

“Hello to you too Anni Tania Rigel,” Shawna greeted Anni by her full name. “I have told you before that here on earth I am just your friend Rel’s mother and you are not, and I repeat, not to call me by my title. Shawna is fine,” she chided the teen.

“Okay. Sorry,” she mumbled. “Anyway, look what I’ve found out.” Anni held up a piece of white typing paper.

“Okay, where did you hack into this time?” Rel asked, not surprised at her best friend’s actions. Since she had known Anni a couple of days after waking up from the slight coma Shawna had placed her under in order for her wounds to heal, Rel knew Anni was trouble. She was constantly using her powers out in the open, or hacking into different important websites created by humans on the internet. Though Rel loved her, sometimes Anni was even too much for her to handle. But it was fun to have someone to share secrets with, to talk to, and just to be with. Rel often wondered if she had anyone like this back wherever she had come from.

“The FBI. Their codes were so easy. A child back home could solve them.”

Being born on Aldaberan, Anni viewed almost all humans as inferior. She missed her home dearly, but delighted being on earth, even if it was just to find their leaders who would retake their planet from the evil Subrarians. Growing up in the capital city of Prima Giedi, Anni had heard all of the numerous stories of the leaders and couldn’t wait to finally find them.

“Anyway. This was a hard file to find, but you were correct about former paranormal activity in Roswell Shawna.” Anni paused and looked down at her paper. “It says here that in September 1999, a 16 year old girl (Liz Parker) was shot while working in the Crashdown Café, owned by her parents.”

“So?” Rel asked, not seeing the point.

“So, she survived.” Anni retorted. “After a young man her age, a Max Evans, supposedly went up to her and healed her. And look, they have his picture on file.”

Anni held up a picture of a young man with the deep brown eyes of the Aldaberanians and dark brown hair. He had a kind smile and sharp features. Rel inhaled sharply at the picture. She knew the guy. He was in her dreams every night. Intense dreams, accompanied by strong feelings, especially in the spring months. Dreams of them being together, even though she didn’t know him. Dreams that scared her. But Rel had never told anyone about them, trying to forget them as the morning came, trying to dismiss them as hauntingly images from before.

“My son,” Shawna whispered, her eyes filling up with tears. “He looks just like he should.”

Anni looked stunned. “You mean this is Prince Allioth Naos Kiltalpha?” She dropped the picture as if it was on fire.

“Yes it is.” Shawna looked amused. “What happened to the girl?”

“I don’t know, but according to the Roswell Daily Record, the same Liz disappeared later that year. Most of her friends and family believe she is dead.” Anni replied, quietly.

“Thank you Anni Tania. You have made our search much easier.” Shawna turned to face Rel.

“Rel Talitha, is something wrong? You look very pale.” Shawna asked concerned.

“No, I’m fine,” she lied. Rel realized she had been dreaming about the Prince, Shawna’s son, the one destined for someone else. She was suddenly confused. What Anni told them had sounded so familiar, but Rel couldn’t remember from where. She forced a smile, “Come on Anni, you can help me finish packing.”

“Bye Shawna,” Anni called from the stairs, following Rel up to her room.

*~*~*~*~*

Present Day: June 29, 2002, Crashdown Café, located in Roswell, New Mexico

Isabel Evans and Alex Whitman sat at their normal booth in the Crashdown Café, waiting for Michael Guerin and Maria DeLuca to finish their shift. They sat in silence; happy the school year had just ended, yet afraid, for every day Max seemed to be drifting further and further away from them. Ever since…ever since Liz had disappeared. The queer thing was that at first it seemed that Max blamed Tess Harding for everything, for loosing Liz. He would avoid her at all costs. Whenever she would enter the same room as him, Max would exit. But lately, lately it seemed Max had had a total change of heart.

Instead of loathing encounters with Tess, he would rejoice in them, look forward to them. How many times this past month had Isabel, Michael, Maria, or Alex seen Max making out with Tess when they thought no one was watching? Holding hands, going on dates? At first Isabel and Michael thought he was trying to accept his destiny, or was just going berserk over Liz’s disappearance, but after a couple of months, they decided this was just weird.

Unlike Max and Tess, Michael and Isabel had taken a totally different approach on destiny. Alex and Isabel went out every night; both growing closer than they ever had before. Michael went over to Maria’s later that fateful week back in 2000 and apologized for ever pushing her away. Maria and Michael were then as inseparable as Max and Tess had become. Though Maria and Alex were cautious about interfering with the alien’s destiny, after Liz never came home tonight, the group just bonded. Max became a stranger though, and it had seemed Kyle had taken a new place in the group.

Michael and Maria took their seat across from Alex and Isabel. Kyle Valenti, the Sheriff’s son quietly entered the restaurant and took pulled a seat over to the table. Ever since he was shot, and then healed by Max, followed by Liz’s tragic department, Kyle had become part of the group. He had taken back all of his previous thoughts and assertions about the aliens and in a way, started anew. Like the others, he was concerned about Max, once his worst enemy, now once of his closest friends.

None of their appearances had changed drastically over the past two years. Isabel was still tall, with long blond hair and deep brown eyes, and beautiful. Michael kept his spiky dirty-blond hairdo and his face was worn in a smirk almost every day. His features had grown stronger and sharper and his alien brown eyes were piercing. Maria decided to keep her hair cut short and was still the smallest in the group, not as bouncy or full of life as she once was before. Alex was considerably much less wiry and had seemed to grow into his frame, green eyes always cautious and caring, very dark reddish brown hair curling across his head. Finally Kyle had grown a bit taller, not much more than before. All had changed inside though, since that June.

Alex was no longer his carefree, yet serious self. He hardly ever cracked a joke and became almost overly cautious to his friends. Maria wasn’t the same chatterbox she once was. Every night, she would cry a few minutes for Liz, missing her greatly. Kyle had lost whatever toughness he used to hide under, quietly staying out of their way, until someone had decided to let him in. Michael was still as blunt as ever, but he did tend to keep to himself a lot. Killing Pierce had shaken him up, until Maria came to comfort him. All signs of Isabel’s ice princess act had vanished, only her sensitivity shone through.

“I think something’s wrong with Max,” Isabel said, looking at her watch, “He’s late. Max is never late.”

Alex placed his arm around her. “Don’t worry Isabel,” he said, “He’ll be here soon.”

“I don’t know what’s wrong with him. The guy has just lost it. I don’t know which one I preferred: the moping go-through-the-stages Max Evans, or the Maxwell who is in love with Tess.” Michael commented.

“Definitely the moping, go-through-the-stages Max,” Maria added in. “Tess doesn’t deserve him, even if he is meant to be with her.”

“If only Liz was here,” Kyle whispered, knowing that his former girlfriend had cast a spell on Evans since the third grade. It wasn’t until their sophomore year of high school, did Liz finally notice this and returned his love. Kyle was jealous and angry, but after the events of that June, quickly realized he was wrong. Liz would have been able to get Max through anything, Kyle thought, she was like that.

“Well Liz isn’t here,” Alex snapped. He and Maria had been hit second hardest, aside from the Parkers and Max, by the vanishing act Liz had pulled. Everyone believed she was dead, even though the Sheriff said no one is considered dead unless they had been missing seven years. This only offered the Parkers hope. As for the others, because of the enemies the group had accumulated that past year: the FBI or evil aliens, or even maybe Nasedo himself, all those choices meant a grim reality. One of them must have gotten Liz.

“We have to do something about this,” Isabel begged, “I can’t stand to see Max like this, going out of his way to do anything for Tess, someone he previously hated.”

“Maybe…” Michael began, stretching his arms out over the chair.

“What?” Isabel looked at him desperately.

“A couple of years ago. Remember, Max had kissed Tess.” Michael looked at the others. Maria nodded; remembering how Michael had sent her to Liz’s that night to comfort her. “Well, Max came to me afterwards, wet from the rain. He came, and he told me he kissed her. But he also said that he wasn’t willing, that it was like someone was controlling him.”

“Tess,” Alex said.

“That’s what Max had thought. Though then he couldn’t figure out why or how. After discovering what Tess was, Max also developed a theory about the daydreams he had been having.”

“Daydreams?” Kyle asked, confused.

“Daydreams of him and Tess. Together.” Isabel said quickly, recalling the dreams of Michael that hit her at night every spring.

“Oh, so he thought Tess was causing those too?” Kyle asked.

“Yeah.” Michael replied.

“And since we now know that Tess can make people see what isn’t there…” Alex let the thought hang in midair.

“But why would Tess try to control him now?” Maria inquired. “Liz isn’t a threat to her anymore. None of us are,” she silently added in.

“That’s what we have to find out,” Alex replied.

Isabel glanced at her watch. “He’s not going to show up. Come on, let’s go home.”

*~*~*~*~*

“Permission to address Supreme Leader Tarnus Jabbah Chort,” Tess demanded over the phone in her small apartment.

“Granted.” The soldier on the other line replied.

“Ah, Agent Tess Nashira Taygeta,” a deep, menacing voice replied.

“Tarnus,” Tess greeted him.

“Tess, Tess, Tess. How is everything going? I want a full update from my second in command.” Tarnus replied.

“All is going as planned. Max is ‘falling’ more and more in love with me each day. Liz Parker’s disappearance two years ago had really worked towards our advantage. You were correct in using his state to manipulate his feelings. That first year, it was difficult, but I have finally broken through.”

“I am always correct Tess,” the Supreme Leader of the Subrarians corrected, “And now?”

“Now he is convinced that he loves me. Max Evans will do anything I want. Tonight, I convince him that he could only trust me, that his sister Isabel and friend Michael are out to kill him. Then he will be ours. Much wiser than just trying to kill Prince Allioth Naos Kiltalpha again.”

“I am pleased with your progress. I look forward to your arrival home,” Tarnus cut the transmission.

“Yes, tomorrow,” Tess whispered into the empty receiver.

*~*~*~*~*

Present Day: June 30, 2002, Buckley Point, located in Roswell New Mexico

“Max,” Tess whispered, pulling away from his strong embrace and kisses. She looked up at his soulful brown eyes and smiled. Max Evans leaned his forehead against hers, his dark brown hair gently touching her shoulder length curly blond hair. Max’s gaze met Tess’s blue eyes.

“Yes?” he asked happily. Being with Tess was like a balm to his heart. It helped him forget about Liz Parker and all the suffering they had gone through once in a while. Even though he still loved Liz, Max knew he had to let go eventually. About a little less than a year ago, he had gone to the pod cave with a bouquet of white roses, Liz’s favorites. Placing them at the entrance, he had said his final farewell to his dreamgirl. A couple of days later, Tess had asked him out, and Max finally accepted. They had been together ever since.

“Max, we have to get away.” Tess replied, her eyes pleading.

“What? Away, where?” Max inquired.

“Away from Roswell,” Tess said, sitting back a bit in the jeep. “Max,” she looked at him again, tears welling up in her eyes, “Max, I heard Michael and Isabel yesterday. What they said…I just, I couldn’t believe it.” She looked away.

“What?” Max looked concerned, “Did something happen?”

“Yes…It’s just. Oh Max, who can we trust?” Tess began to tremble.

Max grabbed her by the arms, “What do you mean? We can trust them.”

“No, we can’t. Max, they aren’t who you think they are.” Tess let out a small cry, “Max, your real sister and second in command have been dead a long time.” The tears began to flow down her face.

“What? How? We came out of the pods together. I have always felt connected to them,” Max protested.

“No, Max your wrong. Two of the aliens, the evil ones out to kill us, murdered them while they were still developing in their pods. They took their place. Max, they’re planning to kill us tonight.”

His face was wide with disbelief. Max couldn’t imagine how this could be true. Why, he’d trust Michael and Isabel with his life. He told them everything, the only other person he ever trusted with his soul was…was gone. And now he was being told that the two others were out to kill him. “I don’t believe you.”

“Will you believe your own eyes then?” Tess yelled as Michael and Isabel came heading toward them. Michael raised his hand to send an energy blast out at them, but Tess managed to knock Max down before it hit them. While Max was still in a daze, Tess quickly sent her own energy blast at the nearest tree. “I got them. Come on Max, we have to go. I have friends that can help. We just can’t go back to Roswell.”

Max ignited the engine and sped the car away from the flaming tree.

*~*~*~*~*

“Sheriff Valenti,” Deputy Hansen entered the office, “Sheriff, I just got report of a tree suddenly exploding just outside Buckley point.”

“Any civilians harmed?” the Sheriff asked.

“No, but jeep tracks were found leaving the scene. We think it was arson.” Hansen replied.

“Send to men out there. Tell me what they find,” Sheriff Valenti replied. Over his many years as sheriff of Roswell, New Mexico, Jim Valenti had seen many weird, unexplainable occurrences. In fact, he was on of the view people in town to know the truth of the 1947 UFO crash rumor. He knew of the four aliens living in Roswell, and vowed to protect them, ever since Max Evans healed his son of a fatal gunshot wound. The idea of a tree just exploding into flames out of no where worried the sheriff. He remembered the warning Max had delivered him the day after Liz Parker’s disappearance. Of the possibility of evil aliens coming to Roswell, New Mexico to harm them. Valenti never considered the threat real, until now. He picked up the phone and dialed.

“Michael,” the voice on the other side of the line replied.

“Michael, its Sheriff Valenti. Can I talk to you for a moment?”

“Fine, what is it?” Out of the group of six, Michael had been hardest to convince of his trust. But once Valenti convinced Michael that he was on his side, he had been able to run to Michael with every assertion he had. Max was in no state to worry.

“Where was Max this evening?

“Out with Tess. At Buckley Point or something,” Michael grumbled.

“Michael, I think Max and Tess might be in trouble,” the Sheriff replied, “Can I meet you, Isabel, Maria, and Alex at your place later? I’ll bring Kyle. I think we need to talk about something you discovered, two years ago.”

*~*~*~*~*

“Michael, what’s wrong? Why is everyone over here?” Maria asked upon entering Michael’s apartment.

“Ask the Sheriff,” Alex replied from his position on the couch next to Isabel. “Michael says he’s the one who called us here.”

As if on cue, the Sheriff entered the room, followed by Kyle. “I’m glad you are all here. Where’s Max?”

“He hasn’t come home yet,” Isabel replied. Sheriff Valenti’s face paled. “Why?”

“I think he might be in danger. A couple of years ago, Max came to warn me against any suspicious newcomers to town. He told me of this other alien race, an evil one which might be out to kill you.”

Michael and Isabel nodded; remembering the day that they had found all of this out. The day they discovered they had lived before, the last day anyone had seen Liz. “Do you think one of these aliens has Max?” Maria asked, “And why now?”

“I don’t know, but Deputy Hansen informed me of a tree combusting in Buckley point. He thinks its arson because of the tire tracks leading away. I have different theories.”

“The aliens.” Alex said tersely.

“They have Max!” Isabel cried. Alex gathered her into his arms and held her. Kyle moved closer to his father’s side and Michael took Maria into a long hug. The six people just sat in the silent household, fearing the worst for their dear friend.

*~*~*~*~*

Present Day: July 1, 2002, Galaxy Inn, located in Roswell, New Mexico

“It was really nice of Kevin to stay behind and watch both houses while we are gone.” Anni said, trying to start a conversation in the quiet automobile. “I wonder why he was so reluctant about wanting to go to Roswell though. Wouldn’t he want to meet his leaders?”

“He’s human first of all Anni,” Metallah told her daughter, “That means the Royal 4 are not his leaders. He just serves the queen. His family has always been connected with the Aldaberanians. They have always helped us in some way. Second of all, we do need someone to watch the homes. And Kevin Salm did promise to come the minute danger arrives.”

The three adult aliens in the car were worried. Lately they had been receiving feelings set off by the Subrarians. Their evil presence kept growing stronger and stronger. This worried Shawna, and urged Propus, Anni’s father to drive faster, so they would reach Roswell sooner. She had left her guard Kevin on duty, making sure he would come the minute they needed protection. Finally, they were almost in town.

“So, this is the famous Roswell.” Anni said allowed. “Whatcha think Rel?”

“Small, but interesting,” she replied. Both girls were thinking the same thing. The minute they dumped their suitcases in the hotel room, they were going to find Max Evans for Shawna.

“Here we are,” Propus stopped the car, “Galaxy Inn, Roswell’s finest hotel.”

“Thank you Propus. Come on, let’s check in.” Shawna lead the way out of the car and to the hotel. There, she and Metallah joined the small line of tourists waiting to find their hotel rooms. Rel and Anni waited on one of the couches with the suitcases.

*~*~*~*~*

“Here are your rooms,” Propus told Anni and Rel when they reached the third floor. He then gestured to the two rooms next to theirs. “Shawna, this is your room. Metallah, here is our room. Now girls, we are right next store, so don’t either of you try to pull any stunts.” Propus aimed his last sentence at his daughter. “We will allow you to look around the city, but you must meet us at the Crashdown Café for dinner at eight. All right?” Propus handed the girls a slip of paper with the address of the hotel and restaurant on it.

“Rel, come here.” Shawna called. “Rel,” she handed her a key, “for doing so well in a high school, I have brought you a gift.”

Rel’s face lit up. Shawna never got her anything, except a journal, which Rel wrote in religiously. “Thank you, but what is the key for?”

“That is the key to a secondhand car I brought you. You will find it parked next to our car downstairs. I had them deliver it here this morning.”

“Thank you. Oh, thank you so much for everything Shawna.” Rel gave her a hug. Anni stood there laughing at her friend.

“Come on Rel, lets dump our suitcases and hit the road,” Anni pulled her friend inside the room.

“I claim this one.” She dropped her bags down on the bed nearest to the television.

Rel quickly grabbed the remaining bed next to the window and balcony, somewhat relieved to be near the open air. She opened the baby blue curtains, allowing sunlight to drape the room. The room wasn’t big, nor was it small. The pale peach color of the wall made it appear spacious and sunlight reflected off the television on top of the draws. A bathroom was off to the side near the door, next to a closet and a desk was propped against the wall, next to the clothing closet. Rel immediately liked it. Nice and neat, small and efficient: it pleased her.

“Want to unpack later?” Rel asked as Anni was exploring the different aspects of the room. “Come on, we have to try and Max. For Shawna, remember?”

“Fine, fine Rel. We’ll go. Why are you always so serious?” she kidded.

“Someone has to keep you in line otherwise all of earth will know there are aliens amongst them.” Rel laughed and grabbed her friend’s hand. “Let’s go.”

*~*~*~*~*

“Oh, Rel, look: an actual UFO museum. How more amusing can it be then seeing human’s impressions of aliens?” Anni dragged her friend to the front of the museum as they walked down one of the main streets in the town.

“But Anni,” Rel protested, “We are supposed to be looking for a Max Evans. You know Allioth.”

“Aw, come on Rel,” Anni grabbed her hand and started to pull Rel into the museum with her when they bumped into a person trying to leave the museum.

“Oh, excuse us,” Rel said quickly, knowing Anni would not try bothering to apologize.

“Its okay,” the tall, blond girl said. She looked at Rel and narrowed her eyes, trying to figure out why she seemed so familiar. Then the girl shook her head, not believing what she had just seen.

“What was all that about?” Anni asked Rel once they had purchased their tickets inside the museum.

“I don’t know.” The two friends began to walk around the museum, laughing at the ridiculous alien puppets strung around; knowing exactly that those were not what aliens looked liked.

“Humans, I can’t believe this,” Anni muttered.

“Anni, I told you it was pointless. Come on, lets go to the gift shop so I can buy a couple of post cards and then lets get out of here.”

“Fine, fine, fine.” Anni and Rel walked around the old museum a bit more until they reached the small souvenir stand. “Here you go Rel, better make good choices.”

Rel stood by the postcard stand for a couple of minutes, trying to find the perfect ones to send back home. “Hmm…How about this one for Kevin? For Matt?”

Anni stood there impatiently. “Those are fine. Come on, I want to see the rest of the town.” Tapping her foot and playing with a strand of her curly red hair, Anni continued to urge her friend out of the store. Rel went over to the counter and paid for the postcards.

“Happy now,” Rel asked when they left the store.

“Yeah,” Anni said “Come on, let’s go to the café across the street. I’m thirsty.” Anni and Rel ran across the street, careful to avoid any oncoming cars.

“The Crashdown Café,” Rel read the name of the restaurant out loud, “Funny, it seems like I’ve been here before.”

“This is the first time we’ve been in Roswell though. Unless, do you think?” Anni wondered if her friend had finally found her original home, the one she lived at before Shawna found her.

“I don’t know,” Rel replied, confused. She looked inside the restaurant. A mural hung on a side of the wall and there was a counter aside from the booths. Very empty today, Anni noticed. Except for the total alien theme, it seemed very nice. She looked at the menu. “All right, let’s go inside.”

“Welcome to the Crashdown Café, can I take your order?” A small, short blond asked as Rel and Anni sat down. Rel looked at her nametag, Maria, she thought. She looks a little like Kevin. She opened her order pad. “So?”

Rel ordered for both of them, “Cherry colas. Oh, and can you bring a bottle of Tobasco sauce over?”

That sentence got Maria’s attention. She looked down at her two customers, wary of what out- of- towners would order cherry cokes with tobasco sauce. Max had disappeared. What if these two were here for Michael, and Isabel? Maria started to get panicky. “All right, I’ll be right,” Rel looked up at her, wondering why the waitress was still here, “Liz!!!!!” Maria shrieked and fainted.

Michael rushed over to Maria’s body. “Tell Mr. Parker we had to leave early,” he shouted to Jose as he threw down his apron. “Maria,” Michael shook her shoulders gently.

“Uhhh…its okay Michael. Come on,” she said talking to Rel and Anni, “Come with us.”

Just as they were rushing out the door, Alex, Isabel, and Kyle entered. “Come on,” Michael barked. “Kyle, drive your car to my apartment.” Alex noticed the two confused girls following Michael and Maria.

“What’s going on?” he muttered.

*~*~*~*~*

Present Day: July 1, 2002, Michael Guerin’s apartment, located in Roswell, New Mexico

Rel and Anni quickly took seats on the couch. Maria and Isabel grabbed the two remaining seats next to them and Kyle pulled up three chairs. Everyone stared at Rel, Anni, and Maria. Finally, the silence was broken. “What happened?” Kyle asked.

“These two,” Maria pointed to Rel and Anni, “Came in and ordered cherry colas, with tobasco sauce.”

“So are we guilty of a crime?” Rel asked infuriated.

“Why are you giving us the second degree?” Anni demanded. “What? Liz? Max?” the teen looked very confused. Nervously, she tucked a strand of her brown hair behind her ear. “Do you mean Max Evans?”

“Yes.” Michael replied, starting to pace back and forth. “Where did you take him? Who are you working for? Did you come to kill us, again?”

Anni nodded. “I think you have us confused with someone else. I’m Anni Tania Rigel. I came to Earth with my family two years ago to try to find the princes and princesses of Aldaberan, my home planet.”

“And what makes you think we should believe that?” Michael asked suspiciously.

“We came with Queen Shawna Rana Kiltalpha and her guard. If either of you,” she looked at Maria and Isabel, “are alien we have hopefully found her daughter, or the Princess Chara Maia Sargas.” Anni concluded.

“Anni here hacked into the FBI files,” The one called Alex looked impressed. Rel continued, “And she discovered a case about a young 0man mysteriously healing a teen in the Crashdown Café.” Rel glanced around the room and saw recognition gleam in the five other’s eyes. “Anni discovered a picture of the healer and name, Max Evans. She showed it to Shawna and me. Shawna recognized it as her son,” Rel explained.

“And how do you fit in Liz?” Kyle asked.

“I’m sorry, but I don’t know anyone named Liz. My name is Rel Talitha Kiltalpha.” Rel replied, feeling a bit sorry she had said that after seeing all the sad faces appear.

“Now that we’ve gotten that straighten out, you might as well tell us who you all are and how you are connected with the Prince. And can you please get us cherry colas with tobasco sauce.” Anni demanded. Maria walked into the kitchen to grab the drinks.

“I’m sorry about that,” Rel apologized, “Anni doesn’t think very highly of humans. Just excuse her bossiness. She’ll come around.” Anni blushed.

Alex chuckled. “You might claim not to be Liz, but you sure act like her. So, are you related to the queen? Same last names and all.”

“No, uh, she found me, two years ago, on the side of the road. I don’t know where my family is on earth. Shawna told me there weren’t many Aldaberanians on this planet. I guess I’m lost.”

Maria came back out with four colas and three sprites. She handed them out to the group; “Are you two like Isabel and Michael?” she asked Anni and Rel.

“Yeah,” Anni replied, “Except we were not genetically engineered. Which one of you is Michael? Isabel?”

“I’m Isabel,” the tall blond replied, “That’s Michael. The humans in our group are my boyfriend Alex, Michael’s girlfriend Maria, and Kyle.” She gestured to each of them. “My brother Max has disappeared though, along with the fourth alien, Tess. We fear that the evil aliens might have gotten them.”

“You are Princess Alya Mira Kiltalpha,” Anni bowed, “Please forgive my rudeness.” Isabel gasped, surprised at such a formal display. Kyle laughed at the young alien.

“Um, its okay. Uh, you don’t have to bow. Please.” Isabel stammered.

“What happened to Max?” Rel asked quietly from her seat. For some reason, this sort of scene seemed familiar to her. Like she had been in this place before, with other people. She quickly knocked herself out of her daze.

“He disappeared,” Alex said. “We haven’t spoken to him for a while. And lately he has been acting irrational.”

“Ever since Liz Parker disappeared, Max hasn’t fully been there. He loved her and kept blaming himself and Tess for the loss. Somehow, Tess got to him. Now they are missing.” Isabel explained.

“Is Liz alien? You know, the Princess Chara Maia Sargas. Prince Allioth’s bride from before?” Anni asked.

“No she was human,” Maria replied, very sadly. “She left the day Michael and Isabel and Max found out their destiny and about their past lives. She ran away from them, thinking it was best to leave Max to his destiny. Liz never came home though. I miss her.”

Michael placed his arm around Maria and held her. It was hard for any of them to talk about that day. Not only was a burden placed on their shoulders, that no sixteen year-old should have had, but also one of the most important members of their small group of friends vanished. Alex went over and sat on the arm of the sofa, this way he could be closer to Isabel. Anni and Rel could tell that the relationships between the group were strong.

“Come on, we have to bring you all to Shawna. Your mother Isabel. You have to meet her,” Anni commented, interrupting the silence of the moment. Rel was staring out into space, and Kyle was staring straight at herself and Rel. Michael was trying to help Maria not to cry and Alex and Isabel were just sitting there. It was too much for Anni.

“Come on. Shawna can get Kevin, her guard, and we can try to find Max,” Anni said. “We have to find him,” Rel whispered. She grabbed Maria’s arm as she got up to put the empty glasses in the sink. “Maria, for me. Please, let’s go.”

Maria followed Rel out the door and the others walked out of the apartment after them and filed into the two cars.

*~*~*~*~*

Maria was driving the Rel’s new car. Rel, Michael and Isabel were also in it, while Kyle, Rel, and Alex drove in Kyle’s. “I am so glad I found you. Shawna is going to be pleased. One thing puzzles me though, how did the Subrarians get to Max?” Rel asked.

“We don’t know.” Isabel replied. “Why are you so concerned?”

“Its just that, oh, forget it.”

Maria turned around briefly before Michael moved her head back to the front and muttered something about crazy curious humans being the end of them all. “What were you talking about?” she asked after yelling a retort at Michael.

“Its just, I know this might sound crazy, but I’ve seen him before.” Michael and Isabel exchanged glances. “In dreams. Don’t tell Anni though, she’d never let me forget it.”

“Your secret’s safe with us girlfriend,” Maria replied. “I wonder if they are anything like Michael and Izzy’s dreams though.” Michael leaned over and playfully hit Maria on the shoulder.

“Don’t bring those up,” he said, “I don’t want to talk about them.”

“They are of Isabel, aren’t they. Yeah, I think they are like those. But only you four are supposed to experience them though, since you were made. Shawna sort of wanted the four of you to be able to sense each other. And since Allioth and Alya are twins, she had the engineers place in memories of Chara and Caph, respectively. But about me, I don’t know. Just another mystery from my past.” Rel replied.

“Oh, it must be hard not to know anything,” Isabel sympathized. She was curious who this girl who looked so much like Liz was. If only she was human and not alien, then maybe they would have found their missing friend. Maria must have been thinking the same thing because she whispered to Michael to pull something out of her bag.

“After Liz went away, Michael sneaked into her room and stole her journal. Liz wrote it all down, what had happened to her since the shooting. We couldn’t take a chance of someone discovering this. Michael gave it to me, since I was her best friend,” Maria continued, “Read it, it will allow you to have an idea of what we went through.”

“Thank you,” Rel replied taking the journal from Michael. She opened to the first page and began to read. “Today is September 23rd. Journal entry one. I'm Liz Parker and five days ago I died. After that, things got really weird....” Flashes began to appear in Rel’s mind as she continued to read the journal while Maria pulled up in front of the Galaxy Inn. She saw everything described in the entry in her mind, vividly, realistically.

Rel was starting to get a haunting feeling that she had been through these events before. She reached the end of the first entry and knew what happened. She knew that Liz and Max were watching the celebration on a cliff, away from everyone else. She knew Liz’s disappointment when Max told her they couldn’t be together. She knew Liz’s love for Max as he walked away, leaving her standing. Liz’s puzzlement on what Max meant by I’ll see you in school tomorrow. It was almost as if…No, Rel thought, Liz is human, I’m not. It would be too good to be true if I had finally found a real place where I belonged, if I was their Liz.

*~*~*~*~*

Present Day: July 1, 2002, Tarnus’s Hidden Spaceship, located outside Roswell, New Mexico

“Max, we’re here,” Tess whispered as she stopped the jeep in the middle of no where. Max looked startled. He was just having another one of his dreams about him and Liz, together. It reminded him of the daydreams he had of Tess, but to him, the ones of Liz were so much better. If only she was still here, he thought.

Max looked around. “Tess, where are we?” he asked confused. They were in the middle of the desert.

“Watch,” Tess fumbled around in her purse and pulled out a remote. She punched in a code on it and a silvery door opened up in the middle of the desert.

“What the…” Max was amazed, shocked. Where had this door come from? “Is it a…I mean, a ship?” he whispered.

“Yes Max, dear, we’re going inside.” Tess pushed down the petal of the jeep and it slowly went inside the spaceship.

*~*~*~*~*

Tarnus stood waiting in his dark throne room for Tess and Max to arrive. His dark black hair was slicked back, out of his face, tied back in a ponytail. His tan skin shinned briefly in the pale blue light. Behind him was a computer screen and control panel, so he could call for back up need be. Tarnus wore a black suit very similar to the one he wore the night he discovered that the aliens were still alive. Tess had not been able to contact him for years, so he feared her dead, until that night. His most loyal servant and second in command. She had helped him originally murder the Aldaberanian leaders. And now it seemed like she would do so again. This time, he would turn their own Prince against them. Then conquest of Aldaberan would be his.

“Ah Tess, you’ve returned, and with the Prince I see,” Tarnus said when Tess and Max entered his chambers. “Prince Allioth Naos Kiltalpha, welcome back. All of Aldaberan has grieved for you, your sister, and you’re friends. We feared Tess was the only survivor. I am so glad she found you.”

“Who are you?” Max asked.

“Why Prince Allioth, I am surprised you don’t remember your mother’s old friend, Tarnus Jabbah Chort. Sadly, she departed a few years ago.” Tarnus held his head down in false mourning.

“My name is Max,” the young man replied.

“Your human name, at the very least. But now that you are back, you will shortly resume your former duties.” Tarnus replied.

“My duties?” Max asked.

“Of course,” Tess gave him a light kiss on the cheek, “You were once the leader. Why wouldn’t you be once you’re back.” She briefly shot Max an image of himself as leader.

“Oh, yeah. Thank you for helping me find my people. Wait, what about Izzy, and Michael?” Max inquired from Tarnus.

“Unfortunately, there never was a ‘Michael’ or ‘Isabel,’ just imposters from Subra waiting for the right moment to kill you and Tess. I’m just so happy you survived.”

“I have to go back to Roswell,” Max replied, taking a step towards Tarnus, “I have to save Maria, Alex, and Kyle from the Subrarians. I can’t let them harm my only other friends too.” Max paused to think. “Did they kill Liz?” he asked silently.

Tarnus looked at Tess to find out who Liz was. Tess sent him a flash of Max and Liz’s last kiss on the day the aliens’s discovered their destiny, before Liz had ran out from them. “Ah, yes. I’m so sorry, but they got her first.”

Max’s fists clenched. “We are going back there. I will have revenge. For Liz. For Michael and Isabel, whoever they would have become.”

“Now, now. Don’t take it so fast. First lets get you relaxed. According to Tess you’ve been a wreck. Rest for a few days, then we will strike.” Tarnus told him, “Tess, show our guest to his room.”

“Yes, come on Max,” Tess took his arm and led him out of Tarnus’s chambers to their own. She smiled, everything was going right according to plan. Soon, she and her leader would succeed where they failed all those years ago.

*~*~*~*~*

Present Day: July 1, 2002, Galaxy Inn, located in Roswell, New Mexico

Shawna was quietly sitting in her hotel room, looking at the picture Anni had printed out for her of her son, Allioth Naos Kiltalpha. Max Evans, his human name. Shawna wondered what he was like; the FBI file didn’t go into personality. She wondered if he was as reserved and calm as he once was. If he was still kind and carrying and if he still loved his bride, Princess Chara, as much as he used too. She wondered if his best friend was still his second command and wondered if he still cared greatly for his sister, her daughter. Alya, Shawna thought, how I would like to see how you’ve grown.

Shawna could not wait to attempt to find them, but for security reasons Metallah and Propus were out exploring the town first. Shawna had called Kevin earlier, wishing his presence with them. The feeling of the Subrarians had grown stronger. She feared the worst. The queen read over the file on the shooting for about the hundredth time. She speculated on why her son would risk everything to save a human girl. Maybe I will get an answer when I see him, she thought.

Her silence was suddenly interrupted with a knock on the door. “Shawna, Shawna. It’s me, Rel, can you let us in?” Rel shouted excitedly. Hmm…they’re back early, Shawna thought, but what has gotten my serious Rel so excited?

Shawna got up and walked towards the door. “Rel, Anni, come in,” she said, while reaching for the doorknob. She turned it and opened the door. Instead of either of the female aliens, a short, blond, girl bounced into the room. Followed by her were Rel and Anni, then two other young men. Finally, the last two in the group quietly entered.

Shawna saw these two as they cautiously walked in. The ones who could only be her daughter Alya and her son’s spiky haired best friend Caph. Her heart skipped a beat. They were still alive! Reacting to shock, Shawna walked towards her bed and sat down, hard. Anni and Rel stood in front of the queen. Anni was beaming, but Rel had a far away look on her face, as if trying to remember something. The three Shawna did not recognize stood near the doorway, nervous and wary. Alya and Caph stood close to two of the humans.

Anni finally shattered the silence. “Shawna, look, look who we found. Its-”

“I know,” Shawna replied quietly. She took a step towards Isabel, “My daughter, Alya Mira Kiltalpha,” she said warmly and reached a hand out to touch Izzy’s face, “I have missed you so much.”

Isabel could not take her eyes off the woman. Tears were all ready welling up inside them. This was her mother, the woman she only saw in a holograph. A woman she only dreamed off, not that Isabel didn’t care greatly for Diane Evans. Isabel reached out and hugged Shawna; “My mother?” her voice cracked and the tears began to role down her face.

“Yes dear,” Shawna said quietly, gently rocking Isabel for a bit in her arms. She looked at Isabel once more and moved in front of Michael. “General Prince Caph Nekkar Sargas my daughter’s betrothed and my son’s best friend. You’ve grown into the man I expected you to be.” Shawna reached in to pat his shoulder, as if to see if it was really he, when a small giggle interrupted her. Shawna looked at the small blond human girl.

“I’m sorry,” Maria said behind her first firs of laughter in years, “Its not you. It’s just…Michael, its Michael,” she sputtered.

“Shut up Cheesehead,” Michael grumbled, somewhat amused and annoyed at Maria’s display.

Shawna turned to direct her attention at the three humans. “Who are they?” she asked Rel.

“Friends. Of Princess Alya and Prince Caph.” Rel replied.

“Isabel- and Michael, please. Those are the names we group up with. I’m sorry,” Isabel replied.

“Isabel,” Shawna tried the name out. “My Isabel. But who are they?”

Isabel walked over to one of the men. “This is my boyfriend, Alex,” she gestured, emphasizing on certain words. “Michael’s girlfriend Maria. And Kyle.”

“They are humans, but they know,” Anni intruded. “And They are really nice,” she added in, smiling at Kyle, “Except when they push you out of a restaurant thinking you’re a Subrarian.”

Rel saw the look Anni gave Kyle. Could it be that her pal had finally stopped seeing all humans, minus Kevin, as inferior? Or at least Kyle, Rel thought and smiled inside. There is a reason though. A reason why Anni shouldn’t have feelings for Kyle, Rel thought. But that’s just dumb. I only met the guy a couple of hours ago, Rel concluded, and he seems pretty decent.

Shawna’s laugh interrupted Rel’s search for the missing memories. “So, Alya, Caph. I mean,” Shawna cleared her throat, “Isabel. Michael. Neither of you have, uh, let’s say feelings for each other?”

“Um, Michael and I, well, we always…” Isabel started, not wanting to disappoint her mother.

“Max, Isabel, and I have always viewed each other as siblings,” Michael finished bluntly. “I don’t love her like that,” he stated and swung an arm around Maria.

“You two were always trying to find a way out of your arranged marriage. Caph, Michael, uh, in your other life, you were brought to the palace after your parents were murdered. I raised you three together, even though Isabel was betrothed to you. You just…“ Shawna didn’t finish the sentence, “As long as you are happy with the humans, I will allow the relationships to continue,” she stated royally.

“Thank you,” Alex said. Maria, Isabel, and Michael also added in they’re gratitude. Shawna smiled; pleased her children found a place on earth. That was when it hit her. Someone was missing.

“Isabel, where is your brother?” Shawna asked. She feared the answer after seeing the glum faces appearing on everyone in the room.

“Max, he was captured,” Rel’s head hung low.

“He and Tess,” Kyle spoke up. “We think the evil aliens got them.”

“My son is in the hand’s of Tarnus!” Shawna dismayed. “And his agent. Together, they killed the four of you once before. We have to rescue him.” Tears rolled down her face, afraid she would never see Allioth.

“His agent?” Maria asked.

“Tess Nashira Taygeta,” Shawna hissed, her hatred filling the room.

“Tess?” Kyle questioned, confused, “But Tess is the fourth alien. Wasn’t she Max’s foreordained bride?”

“No, of course not,” the Queen contradicted all the shocked and confused faces. “The blond witch has been using you. For how long?”

“Two years,” an unexpected voice replied.

“Whoa, Rel, girl, how did you know that?” Maria asked. Anni looked just as puzzled.

“I, I don’t know. I just knew,” she timidly answered.

“Are you sure she is an alien?” Alex asked hopefully, looking at Rel and Shawna.

“Yes.” Shawna wondered why the boy wanted to know. Did it have something to do with that Liz girl she read about in Anni’s file?

“We have to rescue Max.” Isabel demanded.

“I’ll get my father,” Kyle said, knowing that the Sheriff of the town would be able to help them.

“Your father?” Anni asked, hints of annoyance slipping in.

“Kyle’s dad is the Sheriff,” Isabel interjected. “He has been protecting us since he found out.”

“My! How many other humans know about you?” Shawna asked exasperated.

“None, except. Liz did. But she’s gone.” Michael answered, shifting around in the seat of the couch. Shawna’s face expressed her puzzlement over the name.

“Liz Parker was my best friend,” Maria volunteered, “She loved Max more than anything. And Max loved her as much too. It drove the rest of us crazy,” Maria smiled at the memories of lighter times. Shawna nodded deeply.

“I do not want any of you to put yourself at risk. My guard will be here tomorrow. Tonight, I will talk to Anni’s parents. We will take action to find Allioth immediately the next day.” Shawna ordered.

*~*~*~*~*

Present Day: July 2, 2002, outskirts of Roswell, New Mexico

Kevin Salm drove through the desert silently. It was nighttime, well, actually early morning. The sky was clear and moon and stars shone brightly. A peaceful silence fell across the land. Not a soul was out, except for Kevin. He drove as fast as the old car would let him, trying to reach Roswell. He did not like the sound of Shawna’s message.

His family had always been one of the few humans to know about the Aldaberanians. Ever since his great-great-great grandfather discovered one of the princes from the past on earth, a lost explorer, the two families have been connected. Whenever the Kiltalpha family came to earth, one of Kevin’s ancestors would be there to help guide and protect them. Kevin was the first to actually go to Aldaberan.

After his divorce, Kevin knew he had to get out of Roswell. Out of America. And out of the solar system. He contacted Shawna, at a time when the Aldaberanians were overpowering the Subrarians, and a shuttle was sent to bring him to the palace. Since then he had protected Shawna with his life. And now he was back on earth. Going back to the town he had ran from eleven years ago.

He wondered if his wife still ran the small alien souvenir and craft shop he hated. His daughter, he left her when she was seven. Kevin never really wrote to her. She would be eighteen now. Grown up. I wonder if she has a boyfriend, Kevin smiled. If only she knew the path laid before her. Kevin wondered how she was doing. My little girl will be going to college next fall. He couldn’t believe it. Knowing her, she would most likely find one near Harvard, since that’s where his daughter’s best friend always talked of going.

As the car pulled into the motel, Kevin smiled. After business was taken care off, he would have to catch up with his friends: Jeff, Jim, and Phil. Salm also knew that he would have to face Amy again. Kevin DeLuca was in for some major surprises.

*~*~*~*~*

Present Day: July 2, 2002, an empty street in Roswell, New Mexico

“Be careful Max,” Tess whispered in his ear as they walked down Sunset Street. It was around eight in the morning. Most of the adults were away at work and the teens and kids in the theater in this sweltering New Mexican day. The streets were almost deserted because of the heat, especially on the outskirts of the city. “I don’t want the evil imposters to kill you too. I love you too much,” she lied.

“Just stay behind me Tess. I have to do this. For Liz. For whoever Michael and Isabel would have been.” Max saw a telephone both on the corner. “Tess I want you to go there. I,” Max’s stone face crumbled. His fear and uneasiness showed, “I don’t want you to get hurt.”

“What ever you say,” she said and bounced to the both, as if nothing was going to happen.

*~*~*~*~*

On the bisecting avenue, four young aliens walked slowly. They volunteered to check the town for any out-of-place characters. Isabel, Rel, Michael, and Anni had been up since six in the morning searching. Finally, they had reached the northern most corner of Roswell. Anni and Rel walked behind Michael and Isabel, still a bit shy around they’re new friends.

When the light turned green, they quickly crossed to Sunset Street. This was a long, usually deserted street. None of them counted on finding anyone here. Rel glanced at her watch.

“We better be heading back soon,” she told the others. “We have to meet Shawna and everyone.”

“Okay,” Anni shouted from behind, stopping to tie her shoe.

Rel tried walking a bit faster, to catch up with Michael and Isabel, to see if they could tell her anything else about Liz. Rel had stayed up reading the journal all night. The ‘stories’ all appeared vividly and realistically to her. Where did they go? Rel wondered as she scanned around her surroundings, fearing she was lost.

*~*~*~*~*

“Max!” Isabel cried and began to run towards her brother, happy to see him alive and well. Michael followed closely behind her.

“Stop!” Max commanded, using the same tone of voice he only ever heard himself use when Pierce of the FBI was torturing him. “Don’t come any closer!”

“Its us. Michael and Isabel,” Michael yelled at his friend.

“We found our mother Max,” Isabel said, finally stopping about ten feet in front of Max. Michael stood right next to her.

“No, you’re lying. She’s dead. And you killed Liz!” Max cried and raised his hand to send an energy burst to kill them.

At that same moment, Rel rushed out of the alleyway, finally finding her place. She saw Isabel and Michael facing the familiar dark-haired man. They looked frightened, and flustered. Then Rel saw the man ready to send a killing blast in their direction. Instantly, Rel’s instinct took over. She knew she had to protect her friends. Before she knew it, Max was flung backwards threw some garbage cans, from a blast which Rel had aimed at his shoulder.

Then it hit her. That was Prince Allioth she had hit. Shawna’s son! She realized her dismay. Quickly glancing over her shoulder to see if Michael and Isabel were fine, Rel quickly ran over to the body. “I’m so sorry,” Rel cried as she carefully propped Max’s body into a leaning position against the wall. “I’m sorry. My Prince, can you forgive me,” Rel continued to plea.

Slowly, Max drifted out of the slight state of unconsciousness. He looked up and saw a girl’s face, the sides almost covered completely by her dark hair, with the sparkling brown eyes full with worried. He took one look at her and spoke, “Liz,” he said, and leaned up to kiss her.

A connection quickly formed between the two. Images slowly appeared. A starry night, Max holding Liz tight kissing her, for what appeared to be their first kiss. Then the flashes came more rapidly, Max and Liz playing pool, Liz gently kissing Max, wanting him more than anything to kiss her back. Liz and Max, together, there love shining through. The last vision lingered. Max was kissing Liz, for what was the last time, not wanting her to leave. Rel quickly sat up, startled. She pulled away from Max, confused.

“Max,” she whispered, softly, happily. Her hand brushed over his face tenderly. Then the realization hit her. Rel got up and ran.

“Liz!” Max called after her, jogging a few paces until he felt Michael’s strong grip on his shoulder. “What are you doing?” he screamed, “Let me go, I don’t want to loose her again.”

*~*~*~*~*

Tess watched silently from the telephone both. Damn, she thought, Michael and Isabel are still alive. What bothered her most though was the fact that they were saved, by a Liz, using alien powers. How could that be? Tess wondered. “Unless,” she whispered into the air, afraid that one of her ‘successful’ missions years ago might not have been so successful after all. With that thought in mind, Tess retreated to the desert, to warn Tarnus, and plot for the future events.

*~*~*~*~*

Anni came running from the small step that she had used to tie her shoe. She had seen the whole incident. Prince Allioth was ready to kill Michael and Isabel. Her best friend in the whole world, a person Anni knew would never intentionally harm anyone, knocking the prince backwards instead. And then, Anni saw the prince kiss Rel, and then Rel flee. “Rel!” Anni shouted after her friend, wanting her to slow down. Anni began to run after her.

*~*~*~*~*

Max watched as the tall red head ran after Liz. “Rel,” she had shouted. Max whirled around to face Michael and Isabel. He wanted to trust them, especially after watching Tess abandon him here. After seeing Liz, alive, feeling the touch of her skin, the taste of her kiss. Tarnus and Tess had lied to him. Would that mean that, that everything Tess or Tarnus had told him was a lie? There was one way to find out, and Max opened his mouth to speak.

“Isabel. Michael,” he stammered, “I’m, I’m sorry.”

“Max,” Isabel hugged her brother, “Its okay. Tess, they, they were using you. Max, we found our mother. She warned us. I’m just so happy you’re alive.”

Michael placed an arm around his lost friend. “Hey, it could happen to the best of us,” he told him, the closest Michael could muster to an apology. He watched his friend closely.

Max’s head put on a determined look as he pulled away from Isabel. “Liz,” he stated. “Liz, I have to go after her. I need her.”

“Max, Max. That wasn’t Liz. Her name is Rel,” Isabel whispered softly, knowing her brother would dread the words. “Rel,” she named the girl again, “She helped us find our mother. She’s not human Max; she’s like us. There’s no way she can be Liz.”

Max’s eyes reflected his disbelief. “No, you’re wrong. That’s Liz. I know it. I know her. The connection, it was there. I don’t believe you Isabel.”

“She’s right Maximillion. Rel was the one who hit you with that energy blast. Max, get over it. Liz is gone,” Michael looked his friend straight in the eye.

“No, no. I’m going after her. And I’m not going to loose her,” he echoed and turned to run in the direction of Anni and Liz. Michael and Isabel stood there, watching their desperate brother run. Quietly, they headed back towards the center of town, regroup with the others, needing to inform them about what had happened.

*~*~*~*~*

Present Day: July 2, 2002, the old Silver mine, Galitas, New Mexico (off Horseshoe Road)

Rel sat there, quietly crying her eyes out. It had been hours since she had left Max…again. All her memories had returned. Rel remembered running from the pod cave, getting lost, and then hitting her head as she climbed down the rock peak to route 285. She knew whom she was, all her memories of the past life melded with the ones from her life as Rel Kiltalpha. Now, Liz wished more than anything that she had never had returned home. Facing, kissing Max was just too much. What scared Liz even more was the fact Rel is alien, that she is alien.

“Rel,” Anni shouted into the mine, breathless. She had followed her friend to this abandoned cave, trying to keep up with her. Anni gasped for air a couple of times as she headed down the stairs into the dark cave. Seeing a small lantern hanging off the wall, above her head, Anni formed a small spark in her hands and placed it into the lantern. Once the mine was fully illuminated, Anni noticed Rel sitting on a box, her face buried in her hands. Anni quickly headed over towards the sobbing girl and sat down next to her.

“Rel,” she said softly, “What happened?”

“My name’s not Rel!” the girl said softly between sobs, holding her face in her hands. “It’s Liz. I’m Liz.”

“Liz,” Anni said, “Liz, tell me what happened. Did you remember?”

“Anni,” Liz laid her head against her friends shoulder, “Anni, I’m so sorry. It’s just that…”

“You found your home. Your Liz Parker, aren’t you. The one from the FBI file, the one who disappeared.” Liz nodded her head silently, the tears starting to dry up. “Prince Allioth…Max, whatever, you love him, don’t you?”

Another nod. “But I left him. I remember I left him to follow his destiny. To be with Tess. And now, Shawna says Tess is evil. But the message…” Liz let out a small cry again.

“Shh, it’s going to be okay. I’m sure everything will be explained. You should talk to him,” Anni whispered to Liz, gently diverting her gaze upward towards the silhouette standing by the door of the mine. “He deserves to know the truth. I’m sure Max’ll understand, if he’s anything like in the history documents.”

“Thank you,” Liz mummered as her friend started to get up to leave. “Anni, you can call me Rel, please,” she forced a smile, “Just don’t tell the others where I am. I, I need to think things over.” As Anni walked over to the stairs, she mentioned her agreement to Liz, hoping Shawna and the others wouldn’t probe her too much with questions.

*~*~*~*~*

Max silently watched as the red haired girl talked to Liz. As she passed by him, Max glanced in her direction. She nodded to him, signaling to Max that he should go talk to Liz. Quietly, the girl left the mine and headed back towards Roswell. Max made his way down the stairs. Gently, he took Liz into his arms and held her. This time, she did not hesitate to move back. “Liz,” he mummered. “My Liz.”

Her deep brown eyes looked up at him, afraid and curious. “Max,” she said again, quietly, as if she was unsure of his name. Tears began to trickle down her cheek again as Max placed a finger on her lips, to keep her from talking. Calmly, she nodded, allowing him to speak.

Max continued to stroke her hair as he spoke, “Liz. I don’t care what anyone else says. I don’t know why they were calling you Rel. Your Liz, Elizabeth Hannah Parker, the woman I love. And whatever, whoever you may pretend to be, it doesn’t matter to me. I’ve missed you so much. Not a day, or night, has gone by these past two years when I haven’t thought of you. I really know now that life isn’t worth living without you here with me. I need you. You’re more important to me than anything on this planet. I would give up my destiny a thousand times just so you wouldn’t leave. I love you too much, Liz,” Max gently leaned his forehead against her’s.

She continued to stare into his eyes, her hands caressing his face, like she was trying to impress this moment in her memory. “Max,” Liz spoke again, as if it was the only thing her lips would allow her to say. “Max, I’m Rel.”

“What?” he pulled away, staring at her, wondering how this total stranger looked so much like Liz.

“Max, don’t.” Liz placed her body back in his arms, hoping he would not pull away. He didn’t, so Liz decided to take Anni’s advice. “Max, that day, the day I ran, I became lost. I was heading back to the highway and I fell. Your mother, your real mother found me. Shawna took me in and raised me those last two years. And, I didn’t miss Roswell, you, or even Maria and my parents.” Liz paused to allow those words to sink in. Max looked at her, his eyes full of hurt.

Liz carefully phrased her next sentence. “I didn’t miss any of this, because I couldn’t remember. When I fell, I hit my head. I had no memory,” Liz began to tell the story of her first few days at Shawna Kiltalpha’s home. “When I woke up, Anni was leaning over me. She quickly befriended me. Since I had no recognition of anything, Shawna decided to take me in. She gave me a name, an Aldaberanian name. Rel Talitha Kiltalpha. She, Anni, Metallah, and Propus (Anni’s parents) were careful not to use their powers in front of me, thinking I was human. But I caught Shawna one day boiling a cup of water, by waving her hand over it.”

Liz smiled at the upcoming memories, “I thought everyone could do this at that point for some reason, so I tried for myself. The first few attempts were unsuccessful, but on the third try, I did it. Max, I was able to boil the water, like you. I went downstairs to tell Shawna. That’s when I found out everything: about you, the siege on Aldaberan, Tarnus, Tess, and the Subrarians. Anni and I were so thrilled this summer, because Shawna had finally found a solid lead on where you were and we were going to get to go with Shawna to bring our four leaders home.”

“Max, there was a reason I especially wanted to meet Prince Allioth when I found out what he looked like. It was because, every night, I saw your face in my dreams. I was with you once more, even if I didn’t know who you were. I guess a part of me didn’t want to let go. I love you too much.” Liz looked up at him once more.

“Liz, I, I dreamt about you every night too. I’m so glad I found you. Promise me one thing,” Liz nodded her head, ready to do whatever Max told her, “Never leave me again.” He decided that he didn’t care for any more talk. His soulmate, his dream girl was with him again. After what he had been through, Max knew he had to take advantage of every moment. Max leaned in and kissed her passionately, never wanting to let her go again.

Liz began to return his kisses and the situation between them began to become more intense. Standing in a corner of the mine, Liz carefully pulled off his shirt and ran her hand down his chest, leaving a silver trail of light behind her fingers. “Look…Max.” she muttered.

“I know…” Max reached out and trailed his fingers down Liz’s arm, “Look…I can do it to you too,” he whispered as a golden glowing light followed his arm. He leaned in to start kissing her again. Liz shivered as she felt the touch of his bare skin, a feeling she had not felt in years. She placed his arms around his neck, playing with the hair at the nape. She felt his hands rise up and down her back, Max reaching in under her shirt, his strong fingers gently rubbing all areas of skin he could reach.

“Max, uh, Max…” Liz said in between the kisses, “I know that, that we haven’t been together for a long time…but, but do you really think we should do this?”

Max’s only response was to kiss her mouth, his tongue trying to pry through her lips, as if telling her they should, not allowing her to speak, “Liz,” he said under his breath. She gently leaned his forehead against his, to catch her breath.

“Max, its like…Michael’s apartment…two years ago…” she groaned.

“I know,” he replied, returning his attention to his previous activity.

“Max, do you think…I mean, should we?” Liz asked softly, trying to return his kisses while completing her thought, “What can happen? To us? Is it safe…we, we don’t know what could happen. You…me, we…aren’t human after all.”

“I know,” he replied, leaning in to kiss her neck.

“And your destiny, how will this affect it, if we’re together? Shawna would kill me for screwing up anything other than what she had planned. You loved Chara, you can’t just move on to me!”

“Shh…don’t talk…Liz…we’ll figure this all out later…” Max gently lowered her body to the floor, falling on top of her. He moved one of his hands behind her back again. “Liz,” he crooned and began to kiss her again.

Liz reached up, her hands stroking his chest, trying to hold on, her eyes looking straight into his, full of trust, all previous fears and questions gone. She allowed herself to become submersed in the feeling of Max. A feeling Liz had not felt for a while. All of there shared concerns about the future and ongoing conflicts vanished. A connection had formed between them, the love they shared for each other emitting all around. Silence filled the caves and the only sound was the owl hooting in the night.

*~*~*~*~*

Present Day: July 2, 2002, Galaxy Inn, located in Roswell, New Mexico

Maria, Alex and Kyle sat silently in Shawna’s hotel room, waiting for Isabel, Michael, Rel and Anni to return. They had been out looking for Max all day. Shawna had been telling the three humans all about her home planet while waiting for the others to return. The elderly queen was amazed at how quickly they had adapted to this constant change in lifestyle. Thought Shawna did not look down on humans, she felt no great sense of trust in them either, except for Kevin.

Shawna could tell that Maria cared greatly for Michael. On Aldaberan, Prince Caph barely let anyone actually ‘see’ him, aside from Allioth, Alya, and Chara. Even then, Caph always seemed to keep to himself. Shawna did know the boy had a deep bond with his mother and sister, he would allow them to see things others couldn’t. It seemed that his bond with Maria was almost as strong, if not stronger. In a way, Shawna was pleased Caph had found someone to rely on, which also included the other humans.

Alya was still as Shawna remembered. Calm, confident, and caring. The bond she had with Alex was splendid, all those years ago, the Princess never had anyone to rely on like that. Alex was the humor in the group, a kind, understanding, and sensitive soul that Alya needed. Caph was more of her brother, she thought, even though Shawna knew she was too stubborn all those years ago to call off the betrothal. Alya and Caph were going to go through with it for Shawna and Aldaberan, but the…the tragedy cut it off.

Kyle was a mystery to Shawna. She could understand how Alex and Maria were a part of the group, each with their respective love to the leaders. But Kyle, Kyle seemed to be hanging around for some reason. Not fully a part of it, completely trusting the new life forms that pop into his life, yet not one willing to leave it all up to them, wanting to be excepted. I wonder why? But then Shawna remembered the smile the human and Anni shared. That sort of arrangement would be good for them both it seems, her years of diplomatic training shinning through.

All together, her leaders and humans formed a family. Shawna smiled; pleased they had found trustworthy allies on earth. Each person had some sort of quality that reflected off the rest. Shawna wondered how her son fit in. Allioth was probably the leader of the small group, and, knowing him took responsibility for everything. Shawna’s mind wondered. She remembered the humans girl the three were talking about earlier. Liz, she thought. Based on what she had overheard, it seemed that some sort of relationship had occurred between her and Allioth. But Allioth only had eyes for Chara, no matter what it seemed, especially considering the fact their former personalities passed through to this life. And Chara was with her.

Kyle thoughts were directed entirely on Anni. Even though he knew he should be worried about his friends, Kyle just could not get his mind of the beautiful alien girl. She was unlike anyone he had ever met, alien or human. Except for Liz, he had not felt this way about anyone. Correction, Kyle thought, I have never felt this way about anyone before. The only two female aliens he knew were serious. One was caring and warm; the other kept pushing himself, Maria, and Alex away from the group. No, Anni was different. She had spunk, courage, and was loud mouthed. But Kyle knew she had a sensitive side. If only…

Alex was concerned at the moment. He hoped Isabel was okay, he didn’t want anything to happen to her. This was taking all day; it shouldn’t take that long, Alex thought. His mind drifted. He wished Liz were here. Alex never had any sisters of his own, so Maria and Liz were the closest he would ever know. Isabel, where are you, he wondered. He hoped she would come back soon. Whenever she was around him, Alex always felt better. Isabel was his personal dream come true, and that’s what he needed right now.

Maria sat there, her brains yelling at Michael that moment, even if he wasn’t really there. Typical Space Cadet, she thought. He can’t even follow instructions to meet us at a certain time. Instead, he has to be all thick headed and do what he wants. But Isabel and Rel weren’t back either. Neither was that other alien, Anni, though to Maria, she seemed more reckless, a bit like herself. Maria was happy that Max and Isabel’s real mom did not mind her, Kyle, or Alex. What scared Maria though was the fact that she seemed a little too pleased. Oh well, nothing like a little motherly joy, Maria thought. I wish Liz were here though…

A knock on the door knocked everyone in the room out of their deep musings. Maria jumped up and headed towards it before anyone else could open the door. “Michael Guerin!!! You better run because when I get my hands on you…You are going to learn to never making me worry,” she screamed angrily as she walked towards the door.

Shawna quickly glanced at Alex and Kyle, wondering why Maria was so mad. “Maria and Michael, well, they’ve always had this, um, vibrating relationship,” Alex replied, a slight grin on his face.

Maria opened the door, “Michael Guerin! Any human being would have the decency to call. Oops, I forgot the problem. You’re not!”

“I am not your Michael,” a stranger’s voice replied as he entered. He rushed over to Shawna. “I am glad to see you safe,” he said, giving a slight bow. “Where are they though, the Royal 4?”

“Actually, we thought you were them. Kevin, I would like you to meet…” Shawna’s voice stopped, as she saw Maria’s shocked face standing there.

“Dad?” she whispered.

*~*~*~*~*

Tess rushed into the hidden spaceship. “Tarnus, we have a problem,” she shouted as she entered the Supreme Leader’s chambers.

Tarnus stood up slowly from a chair in the dark corner he had been sitting in. He knew that Tess had failed this mission, the burning feeling of the leaders, still alive, angered him. Why couldn’t they just die again? His menacing, reticent stride showed he was in no mood for disappointment. “What now?” he growled.

Tess paced nervously, “Remember those years ago, when we came to earth after finally discovering the location of the leaders?” she asked.

Tarnus nodded, “Go on.”

Tess voice quivered. “Well, remember in 1983, we had finally found the pod caves?” She waited again for Tarnus’s nod.

“Get to the point,” he snapped.

“And you told me to kill one of the females, preferably Chara, since she was Prince Allioth’s wife. And then to change all representations of her to look like me,” Tess looked up, intimidated by her boss, “And I said I did, and stayed in the pod cave until that idiot of a guard Nasedo found and raised me. And I ‘was’ Chara for all those years.”

“And the point is…” Tarnus voiced, becoming more impatient.

“I couldn’t kill her,” Tess admitted. “I, I couldn’t bring myself to kill a baby, since they were in that stage of development, a human infant. Even if she was Chara, even if she did steal Allioth from me, and even if I had killed her previously, I couldn’t kill a baby.” Tess bowed her head at the humiliation, the stone glare she was receiving from Tarnus. “Instead, I ripped her out from the pod, cutting off her ‘alien’ development, and placed her on the side of the road, where something else could kill her.”

Tarnus sat there, not speaking, enjoying the distress Tess was feeling. “Max was about to kill Isabel and Michael,” she said, “but that human girl, the one who disappeared two years ago, Liz Parker, suddenly reappeared.”

“What does a human have to do with any of this?” he roared, “What does this occurrence have to do with that Princess Chara at all?”

“Liz sent an energy bolt at Max, to protect Michael and Isabel. A human used alien powers.”

Tarnus understood the meaning. Those years ago, he never felt the death of Chara, as he should have. He knew that she had disappeared from the others’ existence though, because Tess was able to impose as her. But now, I guess she never was gone. Instead she grew up as a human, her powers not developing until recently, Tarnus thought. “Tess Nashira Taygeta. One more mess up…” he smiled at Tess’s fearful look. “One more mistake, and its your death. Now to deal with this blunder of yours.”

*~*~*~*~*

“Maria?” Kevin whispered, not believing his own eyes. What was she doing here he wondered. Why would she be at Shawna’s? He glanced around the room. There also sat a boy who looked like Jim’s son and another man he did not recognize. He looked at Shawna; she seemed fine with his daughter’s presence here.

“Wait, wait, wait,” the man he did not recognize interrupted, “Your Maria’s father?”

Maria’s eyes began to fill with tears, and then she quickly blinked them away. “You left,” she accused him, “And never wrote. You left Mom and me on our own. Why?”

Before Kevin answered, the door barged open. “Why didn’t anyone answer when I knocked?” a spiky haired youth demanded, followed by Anni and another girl.

Maria went over whack him good naturally. “Shut up space boy,” she whispered and then turned to face her father again, leaning on Michael for support.

Before either DeLuca could mutter a word, Shawna spoke up, “Maria, why didn’t you tell me Kevin was your father?”

“Because he left when I was little.”

“Maria, you, you know about all of this?” Kevin asked.

“Yeah Dad, if you call all of this ‘alien heals human; human tells her best friend; the FBI becomes involved; their other best friend becomes involved; alien/human couples form; Tess comes and messes us all up; the FBI harms Max; Sheriff Valenti becomes our ally; the aliens find their destiny; Liz disappears; and now our newest threat is out to kill all of us; and you appear.’ Yeah, I’d say I know about ‘All of this.’”

Kevin looked confused. “No one knows of the Aldaberanians’ existence, except me. How did you find out?”

“Dad, didn’t you just here me?” Maria asked, “Remember Liz?”

“How could I forget. You two were inseparable.”

Anni, Kyle, Isabel, and Alex sat there quietly, observing the events unfolding for their friend. Michael stood there, sending a look towards Kevin that he better not harm Maria in anyway. Actually, he was using all his self-control not to give this guy a rash for leaving Maria.

“My son healed her and they found out,” Shawna waved a hand at Maria, Alex, and Kyle. “Kevin, from what I’ve found out, you should be proud of your daughter.”

“Maria Rose DeLuca, I am so glad to see you again,” Kevin held out his arms for Maria to give him a hug. Reluctantly, she let go of Michael and went towards her father. She quietly sat there, holding him. Kevin was amazed at how much his daughter had grown. And how she seemed so different from the wild, carefree child he left Amy with. Now, Maria was an adult, this love and alertness filled her. Kevin gazed into her eyes and through them could see his little girl had been through a lot of pain and confusion those years. “I’ll never leave you again,” he promised.

Maria took a step back towards Michael. “Dad, this is my boyfriend, Michael Guerin.”

“About time you introduced me,” he grumbled. Kevin did a double take, glancing at Michael and Isabel again.

“Shawna, aren’t they?” he questioned.

“Yes Kevin, I’d like you to meet my daughter and my son’s second in command.”

“In other words, Isabel and Michael,” Alex said, hiding a grin, “By the way, I’m Alex Whitman. I guess, according to Maria’s analogy, I’m her other best friend who becomes involved.” Isabel smiled at him.

“That’s Kyle Valenti,” Anni pointed out, sticking a finger at him. “He’s okay, for a human,” she told Kevin.

“Kevin Salm, now that we have gotten passed all that, I am glad you came,” Shawna told her guard.

“No, wait. Dad, you still have a lot of explaining to do. Kevin Salm? What’s that about? And how do you know about this?”

“Salm is a nickname the aliens had given to me. Second, the DeLuca family has always known about the Aldaberanians since your great-great-great-great grandfather. Whenever one of the Kiltalpha family came to earth, it would be our job to protect them. You would have found out eventually, needing to take my place when the time came, but, um, as I see,” he looked at Michael, “you’ve all ready found out.” Kevin tried to hide a laugh. “I’m sorry about Liz though,” his daughter’s brief summary finally sinking in.

Maria nodded. Her father had known this all along. And if he had stayed, then…No, Maria, even if he did know, you wouldn’t have known that. It wouldn’t have changed a thing. But still, her father was back, and it seemed that this secret had formed a closeness that Maria didn’t even share with Amy. Sort of like Kyle and the Sheriff, she thought.

Shawna glanced around the room again. Two bodies were missing, “Where are Max and Rel? They weren’t captured, were they?” She asked, worried.

The three aliens exchanged glances at each other. Though Anni knew what had happened, and she then told Michael and Isabel, neither of them was willing to break the promise. Michael and Isabel still were not completely sure if this was Liz, considering the fact the Liz they knew was human, but decided it would be best for Max to discover for himself. Anni, on the other hand, believed earnestly that Rel had found her identity, and was not going to blabber this secret out.

“Uh,” Anni began, “We, we found Max. And he’s safe. So is Rel. Don’t worry.” That did not divert the questioning gazes from the people in the room.

“What Anni means to say,” Isabel gave it her best shot, “Was that because of the likeness Rel shared with our friend Liz, we decided it was best if the two of them talked. This way, Max can realize it’s not her.”

“But -” Michael started, before being silenced by the killing gazes of Anni and Isabel. “They will be back. After talking things over.”

Alex snorted. Maria and Kyle looked at him. He knew they were hiding something. Though what he hoped they were hiding, slim chance of that happening Whitman, he scolded himself. But, still…Perhaps later they would admit it. He snorted and everyone in the room turned to look at him. “Uh, nothing. Just, anyone seen how weird our lives have gotten lately?” Everyone crowded in the small hotel room burst out into laughter.

*~*~*~*~*

Present Day: July 3, 2002, the old Silver mine, Galitas, New Mexico (off Horseshoe Road)

The morning sun gently peeked its head into the silver mine. Daylight had reached New Mexico. Liz stirred groggily from her sleep. She looked up confused by her surroundings. Where were the pale peach walls? And the soft bed she should have been on? Liz’s eyes darted to her side, expecting to see the other bed across the room, with Anni still knocked out on it. Instead she saw Max. All memories of the previous day and night raced back into her mind. She sat there quietly; lying wrapped up in Max’s arms, not wanting to disturb him. She looked at his peaceful face and smiled. She was home. “Max,” she whispered, knowing they better wake up soon, before Anni started a search party.

Max moved gently, “Liz,” he replied.

Liz attempted to pull herself out of his arms, but his grip was too strong. “Max, we have to get up. Before Anni, Isabel, or Michael come looking for us. Max,” she pushed him slightly.

He looked at her and smiled, teasingly, kissing her and letting go. “Liz. Why do we have to rush?”

Liz pulled on her sneakers as she replied. “Max, do you want your mother, either one, to worry. And Shawna, she has to be wondering where I am. Everyone is. We can’t just stay in here and pretend nothing else exists.”

“Why not?” Max questioned, pulling on his shirt.

“Because. Because Max, we came here looking for our leaders to take back to Aldaberan, and we are not going back without them.”

Max smiled, pleased that Liz had not changed over the years. True she had grown a bit taller, closer to his height, which he liked and lost her memory, but her personality remained the same. And the power thing, Max thought, but at that moment, he didn’t care. She was still the same headstrong, loving girl he had known all his life. Max was ecstatic she had returned. And after all those years he feared her dead. “I’m glad your back,” he whispered, kissing Liz’s forehead.

“Max,” she whispered. “Max we are not going to start this again. If we do…well, we’d never get back to the hotel. Come on,” Liz reached out her hands to him, trying to get him to stand up. “We have a long walk ahead of us.”

*~*~*~*~*

Alex and Isabel sat quietly in the Crashdown Café, waiting for Michael and Maria to finish their shift. Last time they had done this, Max was kidnapped and Anni and Rel arrived. Isabel still did not believe that Rel was Liz, but based on her brother’s disappearance last night, she would not be surprised if they finally found her. The four of them were to head to the Galaxy Inn once Michael and Maria were done. They needed to be prepared for whatever sort of attack Tarnus planned.

Isabel stifled a yawn. She had not gotten much sleep last night, the replay of the day running over and over again in her mind. Alex must have noticed because he got up from his position and decided to sit next to her, allowing Isabel to lean her head against him. “Thank you,” she whispered.

“No problem. After all, what are shoulder’s for?” he joked, feeling more like his old self than he had in years. Though none of them admitted it, Alex was now confident Rel and Liz were the same person. Neither had come home last night nor after that famous desert disappearance in the tenth grade. Alex smiled inwardly, remembering how it had lead to his first kiss with Isabel. Still, Alex could not figure out how Liz was able to get alien powers.

“Ready?” a voice behind him, asked brightly. Maria and Michael moved to sit in front of Alex and Isabel.

“It seems that some people were able to sleep better,” Isabel directed that comment at Maria.

“Now don’t take it personally.”

“She sleeps like a rock,” Michael told the others, receiving a jab in the stomach.

“Actually, you do,” Alex said to an embarrassed Maria. “Liz always complained after your sleepovers.”

“Hey,” Maria said and kicked him under the table. Isabel laughed at playful argument occurring between her friends.

“Come on. Let’s go over to um,” Isabel paused, still quite unsure of what to call her mother, “to the hotel. Let’s see if Max and Rel got back.” Alex picked up the hesitance before Rel’s name. Another positive sign, he noted.

*~*~*~*~*

Amy DeLuca walked slowly from the kitchen towards the front door. She was still dressed in the nightgown and her hair was a mess from her sleep. Maria had decided on another early day. She left, only muttering a goodbye, and raced to her job at the Crashdown. Like these past few days, Amy knew not to expect her daughter home to late. Hanging out with friends, she suspected, including that Michael kid. At least their other friends were with them. Though it had been years since Amy found Michael asleep in Maria’s arms, she was still cautious when letting the two out on dates.

Amy fumbled with the doorknob, wondering whom would bother knocking this early. “Uh, hello?”

“Amy?” a vaguely familiar voice asked.

“Kevin?” Amy’s voice yelled. “What are you doing here?” Amy was a little happy to see him, though not much. It was hard to believe that she once loved this man sometimes.

“I’m here on business. Uh, can I come in, or should I just stand here?” He looked at her, realizing she hadn’t changed a bit.

“Oh, come in. Come in. I’m sorry. Maria got up early again and woke me up this time. I didn’t have much time to change,” she said, looking down at her clothes.

“Its all right. So Amy, how have things been going for you? Still run the alien shop?”

“Yeah. Life’s been fine. Actually, I’m seeing someone. You remember James Valenti, the Sheriff?”

“Uh huh. So, you and Jim,” Kevin said politely, “That’s good. I’m happy.” Amy blushed a little, not sure what else to say.

“Maria. Does Maria know you’re here?” she asked.

“Yeah, I saw her yesterday.”

“And she didn’t tell me you were here?” Amy raised her hands in the air, exasperated. “She’s been so busy with her friends lately.”

“Listen, about Maria. Look, Amy, I know that you have custody of her, but, um, I was wondering. Look, I know I haven’t been there for her these past few years.”

“Yeah, Kev, you have that right,” Amy retorted.

“But look, it would mean the world to me if she could stay with me for the next couple of weeks. Until school starts or something.”

“I’m not thrilled with that, but it would have to be up to Maria. She is almost an adult now.” Amy replied. Secretly she knew it would be good for her daughter to get out of Roswell, New Mexico. The only couple of times Maria actually went away from the city were with Liz. Besides, it would get her away from Michael for a while.

“You do. Thank you Amy, so much.” Kevin kissed her on the cheek and headed towards the door. “Look, I have to go.”

“No, Kevin, stay a while. We can call Jim over or something. And catch up. For Maria’s sake,” Amy said, startled that she just asked him to stay. The surprised look on Kevin’s face new he had been thinking the same thing. I guess the years can do a lot to a person, they both thought simultaneously.

*~*~*~*~*

Max and Liz walked silently into the hotel building. Their fingers intertwined tightly, not wanting to be separated. They entered the elevator. “So, you, uh, do know the way to my mother’s room, right?” Max questioned.

“Max Evans, are you doubting me?” Liz replied, trying to keep the laughter out of her voice.

“It’s just that you’ve lost your memory once. Who says this can’t happen again?”

“Max,” Liz laughed and faced him. “You have a weird sense of humor.”

“Then why are you laughing,” he leaned in and kissed Liz as the elevator door opened.

“Rel!” Metallah shrieked. In the two years she had known Rel, Metallah had never seen anything like this. Rel was always Anni’s quiet, confident, smart best friend. The one who always kept her daughter in line. And now seeing her in the elevator, kissing someone, distracted from the whole world. Metallah glanced again. The Prince! Shawna’s son!

“Metallah, hi!” Liz replied sheepishly, stepping a bit away from Max, but still holding his hand. She couldn’t believe that her friend’s mother had seen her and Max kissing in the elevator. But then reality sat in for her. Max was the prince, Shawna’s son, someone important to them. He’s not supposed to be with me, she thought, like always. “Um, look, I” Max squeezed her hand to signal something, “We can explain this.”

Metallah brushed her red hair out of her face, standing there, waiting for the excuse. For some reason, this reminded Liz of her own mother, Nancy Parker. She made a mental note to go home later and try her best to explain. “Look, Metallah, I admit, this is Prince Allioth.” The woman nodded her head, all ready knowing that.

“Do you want to discuss this with Shawna or are we going to get to the point?” Metallah asked.

“All right. Long story short. Metallah, my real name is Liz. Liz Parker. And Allioth, he’s Max. I love him. And, we’ve all ready been over that discussion that he’s supposed to be with someone else. But, we don’t care. And whatever Shawna says. We’ll find our own path. If its okay for Michael and Maria, or Alex and Isabel, then why isn’t okay for us.”

Max looked down at Liz, wondering where this sudden burst of authority came from. Metallah must have been thinking the same thing too, since she was starring at the girl with a shocked expression. And then a glint of recognition appeared in her eyes as a smile spread across her face.

“Come with me. Shawna was worried about the both of you.” Max and Liz followed Metallah into the hotel room. The breeze from the open window rustled his hair. It was dimly lit, but in the light, Max could see the blond woman from the transmission he, Isabel, Michael, and Tess activated two years ago. Based on recent events, Max now assumed that any four aliens would have been able to activate it. But there she was, sitting right in front of him. Max watched her reading through a book, as if she was trying to figure out how it was messed up. He took a step closer, Liz following him. His strength came from Liz’s presence next to him. In a way, Max relied on her to bridge the gap between himself and his mother, since she knew and cared for both.

Max quietly peered at the book. The green cover reminded him of oil point. About five rings bound it together on the left side. A symbol, which reminded him a lot of Saturn, was placed diagonally towards the top of the book. After studying it for a couple of seconds, he realized why it seemed so familiar. It was Tess’s book, the book from the pod cave. Michael or Isabel must have given to her, he thought, not actually thinking that the Queen would have her own copy. Max looked behind him; Metallah had left the room. He glanced at Liz, unsure of what to do. Liz seemed to have received his message, because she broke the silence. “Shawna, I’m home,” she whispered.

Shawna stood up and moved away from where she sat. She went up to Liz and gave her a small hug. “Rel, I’m glad your safe. Don’t ever disappear again, especially when our enemies are on the loose.” Max laughed when he saw Liz blush at the comment, probably remembering the last time she and Max had disappeared from home, he thought.

Liz began to speak, “Shawna, I found him…and myself,” Shawna turned to look at Max, not hearing Liz’s last comment.

“Allioth.” The Queen slowly moved towards the bewildered boy, “I am so elated to see you once more. You, your sister, Caph, and Chara, I’ve found you all.” She embraced Max, holding his hand in hers.

“Um,” Max looked at Liz, not sure what to say. “Please,” he stepped away towards Liz, but still held onto his mother’s hand. “My name is Max. You met Isabel and Michael all ready, right?”

Liz laughed at his pointless question. Leave it to Max to meet his actual mother for the first time and then ask a question like that. Even after Isabel shouted to him that they found her mother, Liz giggled, until Max elbowed her lightly in the stomach to stop. “Hey, Max,” she whined, “That’s not fair.”

“Whose Caph and Chara?” Max asked Liz, whispering the words in her ear. Shawna stood there watching the two, in a way pleased by her son’s actions.

Liz stepped away from Max for a minute, needing to find her own space. Shawna’s face showed no disappointment when Max flirted with her. This worried Liz, she knew Shawna would want Max to be with his bride. Liz was still amazed that she let Michael and Isabel be with the ones they loved. But now that she remembered her friends again, Liz was happy for them. And Kyle, now she knew why she didn’t want Anni to be with him: ‘The stalker,’ remembering what Maria had called them after their trip on route 285. But he’s seemed to change, for the better.

Feeling Max’s intent eyes staring at her, waiting for an answer, Liz pulled herself away from the forgotten memories and new dilemmas. “Caph. That was Michael’s name on your planet. And Chara,” Liz looked at Shawna, not wanting to answer that part, knowing it would lead to the broken hearts the orbs lead to years ago between them.

“Rel,” Shawna sensed a silence instead of an answer. What had happened last night? She wondered. Rel would have jumped at a chance to meet Allioth and to explain everything to him. She loved to explain her intricate thoughts and ideas, though most of the time, she did write them on paper. Shawna looked at the girl again. There was something different about her. Not just the love she seemed to radiate to Allioth. But something more complete about her, and in a way, more adult. Perhaps that had to do with the reluctance Rel had to tell Max. I should have told her sooner.

Bravery flashed through Liz’s eyes. “Max,” she said, looking straight into his eyes, “Chara, whoever she is out there, she’s your bride. The one mentioned in the message.”

“But I thought that was Tess. She was in the pods when Michael, Isabel, and I had run from that cave. And she knew everything, until…” Max stopped, knowing how Tess had almost convinced him to kill two of the people he loved.

“Tess,” Shawna spat the name, “Tess is an imposter. She, along with her leader, Tarnus, were the ones who killed you, when you lived before. Do not believe any more lies from that lamia tells to you. Chara is alive. However she tried to kill her, Tess did not succeed.”

“Liz?” Max looked at his soulmate uncertainly.

Shawna misinterpreted the question. “The human girl you saved. I saw the FBI report. I’m afraid she’s not Chara. Rel is.”

*~*~*~*~*

Present Day: July 3, 2002, Galaxy Inn, located in Roswell, New Mexico

Isabel knocked at her mother’s door. Behind her were Alex, Maria, and Michael. Kyle had volunteered to show Anni around Roswell, this way, if the Subrarians tried to attack them in the city, Anni would know her way around. Isabel smiled. Kyle had always been the ‘loner’ of the group, having to deal with two couples. It figured that all the humans who knew their secret always found an alien to love. Oh great, that sounds like something Alex might say, Isabel groaned.

“No one’s home,” Michael said, waiting impatiently.

“Give Shawna a chance space cadet. Maybe she’s busy or something. You can’t always barge into someone’s room.” Maria scolded him.

Alex and Isabel chuckled at the couple’s typical behavior. It was still a mystery to Alex on how those two all ways managed to get into some sort of argument, despite their obvious feelings towards each other. Well, Alex thought, remembering his friendship with Maria over the years, in a way, she had always been that spiteful towards Michael, maybe it’s just to be expected. Either way he didn’t care Maria needed someone. As long as Michael didn’t hurt her…because then, he’d have to deal with Alex. And Alex definitely did not want that to happen.

The door opened a crack, making Alex jump out of his thoughts. He watched as Maria stuck her head in so she could see, but whoever was in the room couldn’t see her. “Let me see,” Michael said, pushing his way in.

“It might be better if you peer in one at a time,” Isabel warned.

Michael either didn’t hear or paid no attention to Isabel’s warning. He pressed his body against Maria’s and used it to support himself while looking over her head. “Michael!” she yelled, “Stop- we’re going to fall.”

As if to prove a point, Michael lost his footing and the couple tumbled into the dimly lighted hotel room. Michael muttered something about unbalanced, curious, pixie girls messing up everything for him as Alex and Isabel rushed to see if their friends were okay.

“Maria? Michael?” Liz shouted, breaking away from the bewildering conversation she was having with Max and Shawna, “What’s going on here?”

Maria looked up. She pushed Michael off of her. Michael sat up, rubbing his head in the area he had hit it. Maria stood, staring at Michael, until he seemed to get the message and stood up too. Alex and Isabel gazed at the two on the floor, then darted their eyes towards Liz, to Max and then to Shawna.

“Sha-my mother,” Isabel corrected, “Told us to come over here, to see if you and Max had returned safely. I guess you did.”

Liz nodded, “I see. Well, I guess you’ve been hiding a lot from me lately,” she said sharply to Shawna. Max took her in his arms to hold her. Liz sighed and bit her lip. The pain prevented her from crying. The last thing I need to do is break down. She realized Maria was gawking at Max. Oh no, Liz realized, Anni must have actually kept her mouth shut.

“Max. I can’t believe you,” Maria began to defend her best friend before anyone could stop her, “You mope for a year. And then all of the sudden your with Tess. But I’ll let you slide for that one. And now you’re making goo-goo eyes at Rel? She may look like Liz, but she isn’t!” Michael rolled his eyes.

“Maria, wait Maria, you don’t understand,” Rel interrupted.

“No, Rel, you stay out of it…Actually, don’t go near him.” Isabel sighed at Maria’s newest analogy. Alex’s eyes lit up, as if solved all the greatest mysteries known to man.

“Wait, Maria. It’s me, Liz.”

“Lizzie!!!” Maria screamed and ran over to hug her best friend. “Wait,” she said, stepping away, “Prove it. For all I know you’re Rel.”

“I am.” Liz eyed the room. She took in the scene. Shawna standing there, trying to contemplate how this new turn of events blended in with her own news. Maria’s eyes, full of trust, yet ready to jump at any lie. Michael was still rolling his eyes. I guess he actually believed Anni, Liz thought. She looked over in Isabel and Alex’s direction. Alex posed, appearing quite content with himself. Isabel smiled happily, though no smile at that moment could outshine the one in Liz’s brain, so happy to be with her friends, no family, again.

“All right. Let’s see. There’s no other way to explain it Maria. I’m both.” Liz eyed her, ignoring the previous request. “I don’t know either Maria. As Liz, I was human, and then, I few weeks later, I loose my memory, receive the name Rel, and I am an alien. And now, Shawna says I’m supposed to be the fourth alien. The one from the pods, who Tess took the place of. If any of you,” she met each person’s eyes, “are confused, how do you suppose I’m feeling? At least this isn’t happening to you.”

Max tightened his grip on Liz, holding her as close to him as he could manage, trying to protect her from any harm. “Maria. Do you still want your proof?” Liz’s voice cracked. “Remember the summer before tenth grade, we were going to the movies and you wanted to get something to drink from the deli across the street. And you went to the man in the store, and then asked, in Spanish, how much the water cost? And he actually replied, in Spanish. Then you became a little confused, still trying to keep up the Spanish ‘conversation.’ I recall wanting to get out of that store with our bottles. You said we should never go back there again. And we didn’t. Maria, we never told anyone that. Do you, do you believe me now?"

Liz pulled herself out of Max’s arms. Maria ran up to hug Liz again, tears in her eyes. “I- I thought you were dead. And you promised never to tell anyone that story,” she nagged, eyes narrowing at Michael, who was snickering and Alex who was laughing. “I’m glad to have you back. Don’t ever disappear again!”

“That still doesn’t explain everything,” Alex said from his position next to Isabel.

“It does explain why Maxwell didn’t come home last night,” Michael answered.

“No,” he stepped towards Liz; “I’m really overjoyed to have you back and everything. I mean, your one of my best friends. Put it this way, my sister. But you came back as Rel, an alien.” Alex said his last two words really slowly.

This time, Liz had no response to fill in. Her friends knew everything, as much as she did now. None of them had an answer for this puzzle. One by one, each head turned to look at Shawna.

“Mother,” Max said hesitantly, “This is Liz Parker,” he gestured towards Rel, “This is the human girl whose life I saved. Who I love. And for some reason, she is also Rel Kiltalpha, an alien. And not just any alien, the one you claim is my bride, the fourth from the pods, Chara.”

“How can Liz be a human in one existence, and then alien in the other?” Isabel finished for her brother.

Shawna glanced around the eager faces. Each of them wanted an answer to this question. An answer she could not provide, at least not yet. Shawna glanced down at the book. It was the one Isabel had given her. She confidently walked towards her cabinet and pulled out an identical book. She handed one copy to Max, the other to Isabel.

“Open them, please,” she said, as the others gathered around the Evans twins. Isabel and Max did as they were told. Both opened to the page showing the four aliens. Two rows of symbols, which the six could only guess were words, started from the top of the page until it reached pictures of Isabel and Michael, side by side in the center of the page. A row of more of the alien letters separated those pictures from two others. This was where the two books differed. In the book Isabel held Tess’s face was next to Max’s. But in the other reproduction, Max’s picture was joined by Liz’s instead of Tess’. It was the same throughout the rest of the pages. Every picture of the Princess Chara differed between the two versions.

“What does this mean?” Liz asked softly.

“My best friend is not only an alien, but a princess or something,” Maria squealed.

“It is not that easy,” Shawna looked at the group, “I do not know what had occurred to lead to this confusion. I’m afraid your answers will only be found with Tess or Tarnus, our enemies. But beware,” Shawna held back tears, “I am certain you will confront them. But be careful, Aldaberan needs you.”

“We will do our best,” Max promised. He looked at Alex and Maria. They had no way to protect themselves. “Maria, Alex, I want you to stay here with Shawna.”

“Uh, uh. No way,” Maria replied.

“Maria,” Michael warned.

“Listen buddy,” she started, pointing a finger at Michael, “Alex and I have stood by all of you before. The FBI, Topolski, Pierce, remember? I am not going to let any of you face this one alone.”

“Then you’ll have to find someway to arm yourselves,” Isabel said, turning to look at Shawna again.

*~*~*~*~*

Present Day: July 3, 2002, an empty street in Roswell, New Mexico

“Are you telling me that Liz is Rel?” Kyle asked dumbfounded while walking down the street with Anni.

“Yeah. Cool, huh? I find the leaders for Shawna and Liz for the leaders and their friends. Looks like I’ve done everything right so far.” Anni looked down at his eyes, being a couple of inches taller than him, and smiled. She tossed her curly crimson colored hair behind her shoulder.

Kyle couldn’t help but laugh. Anni’s pride filled her face. She was so…different from anyone else Kyle had ever met. And it wasn’t just that whole ‘not of this earth’ factor. Anni was full of life, though a bit arrogant at times. “I’m glad you came,” he said, stopping his steps.

“You are?” she replied, questioning his motives. Anni was still having a hard time trusting all the humans, though her progress was better than she herself had expected. Especially around Kyle, “Why did we stop moving?”

“Um, I don’t know,” Kyle blushed and started to walk again. What was he thinking? They have a million other things to worry about, now was not a time for his adolescent fantasies and desires to kick in.

“I’m not that dumb Kyle,” Anni said softly, her eyes lighting up as she tilted her head down. “And your not either, even for a human,” she continued, pulling away just as Kyle leaned in to kiss her. Kyle looked around, wondering what had happened. Then he saw Anni by a dumpster, trying not to laugh.

“I’m sorry,” she said between fits of giggles, “It’s just that. I’m not ready, to let in a human. Nice try though earthling.” Tears trickled down her cheeks from the laughter.

Years ago, Kyle Valenti would not allow any girl to trick him like that. When Liz Parker had dumped him, well, that jealous streak he went on was not something Kyle was likely to forget any time soon. But that was the old Kyle he thought. I’ve changed, he thought, and this Kyle will let Anni get away with that. “Next time?” he asked, acting hurt.

“Maybe, earthling.” Anni began to walk away when a silent energy blast brushed past her arm. “What the-”

Kyle turned around to face a medium stature man, with evil looking brown eyes and his dark hair slicked back out of his face. “Aren’t you Howie D. of the Backstreet Boys?” Kyle inquired before falling on the ground from the stun bolt.

“What do you think-“ Anni began, her arms raised to protect herself from the mysterious, dangerous stranger. Before she knew it, another red bolt was fired from Tarnus’s gun and Anni fell next to Kyle.

“Fools,” Tarnus muttered as he grabbed the two bodies and carried them to his limousine. He placed them in the back. Now that this was done, it was only a matter of time until Prince Allioth and the other pathetic leaders try a rescue attempt for this pitiful human and Aldaberanian. And then, Tarnus was positive that this would be the end of all his problems. Tarnus sped off to his desert hideaway.

*~*~*~*~*

“And so anyway, Amy gets all mad at me and throws the nearest object at me. Unfortunately, it was a dictionary. So you can imagine the pain.” Kevin DeLuca told the Sheriff. Amy glanced around the room, embarrassed by the tale Kevin was telling Jim.

“You’re making it sound like it was all my fault. If you had actually showed up, maybe I wouldn’t have been so angry,” Amy protested.

Jim Valenti laughed at his friends. They had called him up a couple of hours earlier. Valenti was actually surprised to hear that Kevin was there. After the divorce, it had seemed like the man had pretty much disappeared off the face of the earth. But now all of the sudden he was back in Roswell. And he and Amy were chatting like old friends. The Sheriff had to admit this whole situation was extremely odd. Though, after all I had been through, I guess this isn’t such a huge surprise, he concluded.

Sheriff Valenti placed another piece of Amy’s coconut pie into his mouth. She makes the best, he thought. Too bad Kevin couldn’t have stuck around all those years. He and the man had been very tight friends growing up in this town. Along with Jeff Parker and Phillip Evans, Valenti wondered whatever happened to that group. Each of them seemed to have drifted apart. Queer how all our kids wound up being friends though. Maybe if DeLuca stayed in town long enough, the four could reunite, try to catch up on the good days.

“Thanks for the warning Kev. At least I know now not to make Amy upset when we’re around any dictionaries.”

“Just for that Jim,” Amy paused and grabbed his plate, “No more pie for you.” She laughed and brought it into the kitchen.

Valenti was about to protest when his cell phone rang. “Uh, Amy, Kevin, excuse me for a minute. Duty calls.” He got up and walked into the empty hallway. “Sheriff Valenti,” he spoke into the receiver.

“Ah, so this is the Sheriff of this pitiful excuse for a town. Hmmm, Sheriff, I have something that might be of interest to you,” the voice on the other end of the line spoke.

Jim Valenti’s grip on his phone tightened. “Who are you?” he demanded. He had met privately with Max and Isabel’s mother, their alien one, the other day. She had told him of the alien threat. Kyle later told him about the incident between Max and the others. And how the brunette, Rel, turned out to be Liz after all. He was prepared to deal with any threat; any surprise; at least that’s what he thought.

Sheriff heard a couple of muffled sounds and then his son’s voice started. “Dad. Dad, don’t listen to him. He’s just trying-“ Kyle had been cut off.

“Who are you?” Valenti asked again. “What have you done with my son?”

“Don’t worry. Your offspring and his red haired alien friend will be fine. That’s if you bring me what you want. I know you are involved Sheriff. And I figured that a man of your occupation would understand how hard it can be to nail the enemy sometimes.” The sinister voice paused. “Bring me the Aldaberanian leaders and they are free to go. I’m sure they will come after me anyway, even if not by your demand. Till then.” The malicious man hung up the phone.

The Sheriff knew without a doubt whom he had talked too. Though why the man Shawna and Max had warned him about would call him, that thought still puzzled him. Never the less, the Sheriff knew he had to go. He got up slowly and walked into the living room.

“I hate to cut this short Amy, but I have to go. Duty calls. Thanks for the pie,” Sheriff Valenti got up to leave.

Amy sighed. Jim’s work always seemed to interfere with their time together. “If you must Jim,” she said disappointedly.

Valenti turned around to head out the door after saying his farewells to Kevin also. “Look, I’ll have to catch you another time,” he heard Kevin tell Amy. “I just realized I’m late for something.”

While the Sheriff was saying good bye to his ex-wife, Kevin had heard his beeper go off. Only Shawna had access to this number, which meant something was up. God, I hope Maria is okay. Finding out his daughter was involved made Kevin proud, yet he did not want her in any more trouble than she all ready seemed to be getting into. He quickly rushed pass Jim and headed to his car.

Sheriff Valenti turned around once more to say good bye to Amy. She seemed very upset. I guess that’s no big surprise, he thought, watching Kevin get into his car and speed away. And now he was doing the same. Amy would understand if she knew, Jim resolved. He tipped his hat at her and went out the door.

*~*~*~*~*

Liz’s mind was whirling as she sat in her hotel room. In the past few days, it had seemed like her life had been altered again. The rest of the group was in the Queen’s room, finally receiving their long awaited answers. Liz had slipped away for a few minutes to find some solace. She wanted her own questions answered now, but unfortunately the woman she had looked up to the past couple of years could provide none for her. As for the others, Shawna had almost every answer for them. Liz and Anni knew all the stories too well.

When she left, Shawna was still describing the atmosphere and culture of Aldaberan, before the Subrarians ever set foot there. Liz had seen all the holos before, of the magnificent cities, such as the capital Prima Giedi, and the living rainforests. She knew that the aliens were shapeshifters but preferred their human states to their own natural bodies, especially since the death of the monarchs. Liz still had a tough time believing she was actually the Princess, and future ruler of Max’s home planet, along side him. It’s like living a dream, she thought. Everything has been a dream, since I was shot.

The quiet girl reached into the drawer of the bedside table and pulled out the familiar looking black leather notebook. She opened it up to the last entry. It was marked the morning before Nasedo had kidnapped her. She glanced over it, remembering how Max had come home that morning with the realization that their actually was another from the pods. That Tess wasn’t Nasedo. It was then they also found out Isabel wasn’t pregnant, a relief to them all. Liz picked up her pen to start writing; she had a lot to catch up on.

*~*~*~*~*

Shawna had suggested an idea to the six teenagers about the protection of Maria and Alex. She had never seen much devotion in any human except for Kevin DeLuca and his father. Because they were willing to be part of the Earth based attack against the Subrarians, she decided it might be best for Kevin to teach them how to use a blaster. Metallah and Propus had been sent back to Albuquerque to fetch the extra laser guns she had brought with her. Now all they needed was for the Rigels to return.

A sorrowful silence had now filled the room. Max, Michael, and Isabel had been thrilled to find out more about there home, while waiting for Kevin to arrive. Even Alex and Maria had been curious, though Liz seemed to have stepped out of the room. It was Michael’s question that had caused the silence. Unlike the others, he had wanted to know how they died. This was a hard subject for Shawna to discuss, since it had hurt her deeply.

Shawna took in a deep breath and looked around the room. Her eyes met Max’s. “My son, you were so willing to work towards a peace with the Subrarians. Chara was able to convince you to write a treaty and eventually meet with the other leaders. Day in and day out, you would work on the treaty, locking yourself from the rest of the world. Finally, you had constructed the final draft and that night, you were going to meet with Tarnus and Tess. You and Chara were supposed to go and then peace was supposed to prevail.”

The woman sighed and looked at Michael, her face trying to hide her grief. “Michael, you and Isabel were against this, as Max was at first. A fierce argument broke out between the three of you and in the end, it was decided for us to send all four of you. It was figured that if all of the Royal 4 were along, Tarnus’s men would not try anything. We sent you to your graves. It was a trap. The explosion, it was heard all over Prima Giedi.”

Across the room, mournful eyes met one and other. None of them could speak, let alone Shawna. It was if Max, Isabel, and Michael had remembered this woeful day, and in some way, allowed Maria and Alex to witness it too.

*~*~*~*~*

Present Day: July 3, 2002, Galaxy Inn, Roswell, New Mexico

…I with I had a more definite answer to this predicament I’m in. I don’t know if I’m ready to face my parents again, but I know they would have some answers if I did. They would be able to tell me if I was adopted, which, I guess would explain a lot. By why they would never tell me before, that puzzles me. I just wish this was just all over… As Liz continued to write, Max quietly entered the room. He walked over to her bed, watching her write in her journal. She looks so peaceful and absorbed in her writing, he thought. Max leaned over her head and kissed her gently.

Liz lifted her head up to see her soulmate standing over her. She reached for his face and gently brought it in front of hers, deepening the kiss. “Max, what are you doing here? I thought the five of you were talking with Shawna?” She smiled at him, her eyes sparkling with her curiosity.

“We were. But Kevin’s almost here.” Max returned her smile and pulled her close. His face turned serious. “Did you know everything Shawna told us? About,” he stopped as his voice broke, and stared into her eyes, “About our deaths?”

Liz turned her body to lean against him. “Yeah Max, I did. Shawna educated Anni and me on a complete history of your, no our, home. I know more about it than you do.”

“And you never bothered to share?” Max joked.

“You know I had amnesia. Max, did you really expect me to call a total stranger,” she laughed at the odd display of humor.

“I’m no stranger.” Max pouted. “At least I hope not.” He kissed her and then turned serious again. “Liz, I’m sorry.” “For a stupid mistake I made years ago. And how it cost us all of our lives. I can’t believe I did that. How could I have been so blind?” Max moved away from Liz and stared at the wall.

Sensing his anger at himself, Liz moved closer to Max. “Max look at me.” He turned to face her, avoiding any eye contact. “No Max, really look at me.” Liz reached out and brought his face up to meet her eyes.

“Max, what you did, it’s what any leader would do. Any self-sacrificing person, who would put the fate of his planet ahead of his own needs, should never and I repeat never blame himself for something like that. You didn’t know they would betray you, there was no way you could have known!” Liz’s anger at the Subrarians reflected in her voice.

Then the tone softened. “Besides Max, I’m happy we’re on earth. So are Michael and Isabel. None of us remember Aldaberan, and face it, here we have Maria and Alex too.” She smiled; the smiled that always made Max’s heart melt.

“Thank you Liz. For believing me always.” Max Evans leaned in to kiss her again. Liz wrapped her arms around him and the kiss intensified. Neither heard the knock at the door.

“Uh, I hate to interrupt this little love feast here, but my Dad is back. And Shawna sort of wants all of us to have a meeting. A group meeting, which, you know, technically means, all of us have to attend.”

Maria glanced around the room, clearly receiving no attention from the person who was supposed to be her best friend and the other who was supposed to be a close friend too. She was happy that Max was back to his normal, lovable, cautious, leadership. Maria was even more thrilled that Liz finally returned, even if all these new turn of events were puzzling to the girl. But those two, Maria sighed, why is it they never really paid attention when they were together? Here goes take two, she laughed.

“Um, Max, Liz? My Dad is in the other room. And the presence of our two leaders is sort of required, you know?”

Liz quickly sat up and moved away from Max. “Hi Maria, we didn’t here you come in.”

“Oh, that’s no big surprise,” Maria snickered. “Look Liz, you just got back and you’ve been off on your own this entire time. I understand you want some answers, but still, ignoring us or just letting Max in won’t help. We want to be a part of whatever search your going through, we want to help you with everything.” Maria looked at best friend and her boyfriend, trying to fight back the hurt building in her chest. “Max, can I speak to Liz alone, please?” she begged.

Max nodded and exited to Shawna’s room. “Okay Maria, what is it?” Liz asked.

“Liz, its just what I explained before. I’m glad you’re back, but I missed you. A lot. And you’ve changed. Not just the fact you’re alien. You’re more…I don’t know, withdrawn. And I miss the old Lizzie.”

“Maria, come here,” Liz patted to the space next to her on the bed. Maria sat down and Liz hugged the blond girl. “I’m sorry for acting the way I did. I love you; you’re the sister I never had. I didn’t mean to hurt you, please believe that. I promise, I’ll tell you as much as I can, just give me time to get used to this, all right?”

Maria nodded, then smiled, bringing relief to her solemn face. “I love you too Liz. But as soon as all of this is over, you spill over ice cream.” Liz smiled and shook her head in agreement.

“Come on, we better join the others.”

*~*~*~*~*

“Maria, Rel, here you are.” Kevin went over to the two girls when they entered the room.

“Hi Dad,” Maria said, pleased to see him again. “Dad you remember Liz, right?”

“Your best friend, the one who disappeared, right?” He looked around, unable to see the relevance in this. They were supposed to be talking about laser blasters for the humans, not missing people. “What does this have to do with anything?”

“And you know Rel, right? You’ve known her as long as Shawna and