Liz stretched out on the satin sheets. They had been on board for two weeks and she was going stir crazy. There was plenty to do but the fact that she couldn't go 'outside' made her want to go 'outside.' The door slid open admitting a sweaty Zan. �Hey.�
�Been working out... again?�
�Yeah, so?� He made his way to the bathroom, stripping as he went.
�Hold on. Come here.� She ordered him. His pierced eyebrow arched up as he strode over to where she knelt on the edge of the bed. �I like you this way.�
�Yeah, well...� He gently pushed her back on the bed. Zan leaned over her and breathed in the scent of her hair. �What's this?�
�What?� Liz's eyes widened. He kept sniffing her, moving down her body as he went, stopping over her stomach. �What is it?�
�We seem to have miscalculated your cycles, Mrs. Evans.� Zan took on the air of a science professor, making his wife laugh. �Ready?�
�Are you serious?� She bit her lip and waited for his answer, which was to move between her legs and kiss her softly. Their mouths melded together as their clothes just dissipated. He opened their connection up wide.
Soon they were a tangled frenzy of moving limbs and lips. Liz moved her hips against him, pulled him to her, tried pulling him inside her. Zan cupped her heat, making sure she was ready for him. This knowledge that bounced back and forth between them, this knowledge that she was truly ready and that they were about to create something, served to heat them up faster than any round of foreplay.
�Zan.� Liz pleaded, stroking the muscles in his arms and down his chest. He guided himself inside her slowly. Her wet walls encased him, driving him insane. Slowly, he started a rhythm, sliding in and out knowing just what she needed.
He slid his hands down her arms and took her hands in his, intertwining their fingers. Liz raised their arms over her head, bringing him down on top of her. Their bodies became slick with sweat, easing the transition to a swifter pace.
Zan found he had to pull himself with his arms to achieve the pace he wanted. He groaned and lowered his mouth to her ear. Nibbling he panted to her, �You're makin' me work.�
�Oh but you know you love it.� It was the last thing she managed to say before all she could produce were moans of pure pleasure. Their connection sent pleasure bouncing back and forth until they felt everything at the same time. Liz let out a scream as she came, gripping his hands with bone-crushing force.
When her walls clamped down around him, he let out an animalistic growl before he came. Zan held himself very still then thrust one last time as deep as he could, losing his seed inside her.
They broke the connection after they had caught their breath. Zan was reluctant to loose the warmth of her body but pulled out all the same. He pressed his face to her stomach and hoped that she would finally get what she wanted. What they both wanted. A baby.
--
Samantha stopped to catch her breath. She and Michael had been chasing Erik all over the gymnasium. That kid had some kind of Super-Energizer battery in him somewhere and she swore that Michael was going to find some way to take it out. Finally, Sam had had enough. �Erik, baby, come to Mama. I'll give you a cookie.�
Then the two-year-old terror made a beeline for his mother. Michael collapsed on the floor and stared at her. �Why couldn't you have thought of that about a 100 miles back?�
�I don't know... maybe the fact that I don't actually have a cookie. I hate lying to him.� Sam pulled a wafer out of her pocket and waved her hand over it. Erik ripped the cookie from her hand and started chewing away.
Michael dragged himself to his feet and scooped up his son. �Let's go back to the room, buddy.�
�Maz? Lis?� Erik asked from where he was perched on his father's shoulder.
�Yeah. We'll see Uncle Max and Aunt Liz.�
--
Michael sat up and glanced at the armchair near his bed. He wasn't dreaming. Sam was sitting in it watching cartoons. �Wanna tell me what you're doing here?�
�Eating all your cereal and Tabasco.� She waved her spoon at him.
�It's seven in the morning.� He complained after consulting his alarm clock.
�You said I could come over anytime.� She spared him a glance. �You wanna put some pants on?�
�No. If you didn't want to see it, you woulda knocked.� Michael groaned and reached for a pair of sweats to pull on over his boxers. He got out of bed and stumbled to the refrigerator. �Your parents giving you hell?�
�Why else would I be here at seven in the morning?�
�Look, I gotta go to work in like an hour. Think you could not touch my stuff while I'm gone?�
�You gonna give me something?� She raised an eyebrow at him. �I don't baby-sit inanimate objects for free.�
�Just don't make a mess. I'm not about to clean up after you.�
�Please, like you even clean after yourself.� Sam went silent for a moment then turned back to him. �If I clean up a little, can I stay here until five?�
�Yeah, sure. Don't worry about cleaning up though. When I get home, you and me are going to talk.� Michael waved her off and went to shower. The whole day while Michael was at work, flipping burgers and deep-frying potatoes, onions and cheese, he just kept thinking about Sam and how things must be really bad if she just let herself into his apartment at the butt-crack of dawn. He couldn't wait to get home to see what was up.
When he walked into his apartment that afternoon, it was spotless. Sam was cooking. Cooking, Michael didn't even know he had food to cook. �So I was thinking, I turn 18 after Christmas. I could get a job and then get an apartment in the summer. You think that's legal? Then I could finish school on my own.�
�What's going on, Sam?� He shut the door behind him.
�I don't want to stay there any longer than I have to.� She whispered almost to herself. She felt the tears slipping down her face. �Dammit.�
Michael pulled her to him, hugging her tight in a way he had learned through Liz and Isabel. Then he felt her pushing him away but he held her tighter. �What is it?�
�I didn't want to cry in front of you.� She wiped at her eyes but didn't try to push him away again. �I'm not weak.�
�I'm not either. Don't mean I don't cry. You can stay here when you can get away, just don't get caught.� Michel felt her nod against him and then he did the only thing he could think of to make her feel better. He kissed her. It was only supposed to be chaste but then that unspoken attraction that had lain between them since meeting took over.
Michael looked around the doorway. He didn't see anything resembling a doorbell so he just opened the door. Then he wished he hadn't. He�d seen that scene at least 20 times too many in his lifetime. He stepped back and shut the door. �They're busy.�
�Are they?� Sam raised an eyebrow from where she was wrestling with their son.
�Yeah. They do love practice.� Michael lowered himself to the floor and let his son climb all over him.
�Where is that little baby?� Nancy and Jeff burst into the common room.
�Nana! Ji!� Erik raced into their arms.
�Where are Zan and Liz?� Jeff glanced around.
�Busy.� Michael nodded with a tight smile.
�Well, court dinner in six hours. Actual food, I tell you.� Jeff raised his eyebrows. �We're gonna take this little guy to court and introduce him around.�
�You really like hanging out in court, huh.� Sam grinned at the man that was as close to a father-in-law that she would get.
�I kinda like it. My mother always said it was hell but I'm not so sure about that.� He shrugged. �Don't let them be late.�
�Not a problem.� Michael shook his head.
--
Liz groaned when she heard the door open and close. Her husband was crushing her with his weight. She ran her fingers through his hair and kissed the top of his head. �I think we should shower and get dressed.�
�Go ahead but I ain't movin'.� He mumbled and nestled his face into her neck.
�Well, you kinda have to get up in order for me to get up.� Her hand slid down and found that spot just underneath his ribs. She laughed when he leapt off her and the bed.
�Thought I told you not to do that again.� He grumbled and went to lie down again.
�I think we're needed out there. I think Michael got an eyeful when he came to tell us.� Liz tilted her head at him.
�I'll go first. You just... let things come together. Don't move.� Zan motioned for her to stay put.
�It's cold.�
�You've got blankets.� He called over his shoulder before disappeared into the bathroom. Muttering about men and wet spots, Liz scooted to the other side of the bed and pulled a blanket over her body. Just in time as it turned out because then the door opened.
�Okay, horndogs, get dressed.� Michael burst in, hand over his eyes.
�Hey Michael.� Liz called out. �He's in the shower and I'm pretty much covered.�
�Good.� He dropped his hand. �Dinner in court. All must attend. Dress your best.�
�Okay. I'll tell him.�
�Six hours and your dad said not to be late.� He jerked his head in the direction of the bathroom.
�I'll tell him.� Liz nodded, eyes wide to show she got the point. Michael shrugged and left again. �We really need doorbells or something.�
Part 6
Liz sat at the table and looked around. There were so many people in the court dining room. Zan gripped her hand for a moment before letting go. She marveled at the change in him since he had emerged from the shower. He wasn't Zan reincarnated and he wasn't Max.
Michael and Sam had their hands full trying to keep Erik in his seat. Jeff and Nancy chatted happily with the nearest people about mutual acquaintances and annoyances.
Liz shook her head. Her mind was swimming and she suddenly felt nauseous. Her husband watched her carefully while he kept talking to the captain seated across from them. The noises were overloud, colors over-bright, and then everything was the exact opposite. Noises muted, colors dulled. Numb.
She turned to her husband and watched his mouth form words that she couldn't hear. Then everything came rushing back to her. Everything she had been feeling passed and went away.
�Elizabeth?� Zan whispered loudly. �My Queen... do you need to go to the infirmary?�
�What? No.� Liz smiled and shook her head. She felt better than fine now. �I'm fine, baby.�
She furrowed her brow at his frown. He leaned in. �I wish you would refrain from pet-names in court.�
�I'm s-sorry.� She sat back and watched him continue to talk to the captain. She shot Sam a look. Sam had watched the whole exchange. He had never made Liz feel like she had done something wrong. It was the first time that he had ever reprimanded her for loving him.
--
Samantha and Liz stuck close to each other at the party after dinner. Michael rocked his son in a corner, listening to some of the older women coo and fuss over what an adorable little boy Erik was. Zan kept himself surrounded by the executive crewmembers, talking flight plans and battle strategies.
�I don�t know what is wrong with him.� Liz sniffed but smiled at the women who stopped to give her a compliment on how nice she looked. �I�ve never had him be like this to me.�
�You said he had three personalities. Maybe this is a fourth?� Sam suggested and brushed her black hair out of her face. Her eyes fell on her son with his matching hair contrasting with his father�s lighter hair.
�No. There is a reason for every personality. Max is the dominant one. He�s so caring and gentle, thoughtful and protective. Then there�s Zan... he�s... where Max goes with his heart, Zan goes with his gut. Everything is so instinctual, almost animal. Sometimes... sometimes there�s the hint of this third one...� Liz trailed off and placed a hand over her abdomen.
�How... can you explain it to me again?� Sam asked softly, taking Liz�s free hand.
Liz dragged Max into Michael�s apartment and made him sit. �Don�t move a muscle, don�t say a word.�
�Whateva, yo.� Zan rolled his eyes.
�Liz? What�s wrong with Max?� Sam struggled to sit up on the bed with her round stomach.
�Ain�t nothin� wrong wit me.� Zan crossed his arms.
�It�s okay, Sam. Max is just a little Zan right now.� Liz smiled apologetically. �He does this sometimes, but not a lot.� She glanced around. �Michael�s not here, huh.�
�Went to grab lunch for us.� Sam gave up trying to sit up and lay back. �Why does he do this?�
�What the fuck is ya�ll talkin� �about? I ain�t doin� nothin�.� Zan strode across the apartment and turned on the TV.
�Well, that December that we all went through the change...� Liz stared after her husband. �He used to be two people, he still is but I mean literally. He was Zan and he was Max, two bodies, two people. Then he went into the Granilith and when he came out, he was one body but both people.�
�Wow so now he�s Zan?�
�Yeah... Sometimes he�s like Zan but then he�s Max. Like a blend. It doesn�t come out hardly ever.� Liz eyed Sam�s round stomach with longing. �Michael sometimes does that.�
�Does what?�
�Well, he�s a little more Michael sometimes. I think it�s because Rath was already dead when we went through the change. It subtle but it�s there... in Isabel and Ava too.� Liz lifted her eyes to Sam�s. �Max doesn�t even know that he�s done a personality switch but sometimes it gets embarrassing.�
�He�s never been shut down like this. I can�t even get him alone so I can tell him.� Liz sighed heavily and hoped things were coming to a close.
�Tell him what?� Sam watched Liz�s face carefully.
�I need to tell him first.� She shook her head.
�Well, here�s your chance. He�s coming over here.� Sam nodded to where the crowds were parting for their king. Zan strode forward in his official court garb. Liz bit her lip until she was sure that he was coming for her.
�My Queen... would you like to dance?� Zan tilted his head to her and held out his hand. Liz took it without a word and let him lead them to the dance floor. He guided her in slow circles. �You�re quiet.�
�I wasn�t sure if I was allowed to speak while we danced.� She bit out.
�I�m sorry. There is just a certain decorum to be taken in court.� His eyes bore down into her face. �I�m sorry. I should have made sure you understood.�
�I�m ok. Really.� Liz nodded and nestled herself deeper within his arms. �I have to tell you something.�
�What is it?�
�This morning�s mission was successful. I�m pregnant.�
�Are you serious?� Zan whispered.
�Yes.� Liz closed her eyes at the feel of his lips on her temple.
�Well, now we really have reason to celebrate. I think we should cut out of this party early.� He murmured into her hair. �I�ll make the announcement.�
�I want to tell Sam and Michael and my parents first.� Liz protested against his eagerness to share their news.
�After all that... I will make the announcement.� She could feel the excitement in his body. He was practically humming. She kept her eyes on his face. That smile that never quite left his eyes to appear on his mouth had her fascinated. �What?�
�Nothing. Are you sure you want to be this close in court?�
�Elizabeth, I will explain court to you later. I assure you that everything I�m doing is socially acceptable.� His eyes left hers and swept the room around them. �This is almost perfect. I am dancing with my Queen and my heir in front of the Antarian court. The only thing that could make this better would be to be on Antar in the palace.�
His voice soothed her frazzled nerves. �We could take a walk along the grounds. The light from the stars would be enough to light up the green seas just at the edge of our property. The red sands, wet under our feet, kinowa trees brushing against our legs.�
�It�s so beautiful.� Liz whispered, resting her head on his shoulder.
�It is. I always hoped I would see it again.�
�You�re him.� Liz said suddenly.
�What? What are you talking about, Elizabeth?� Zan bent his head to kiss her forehead.
�You�re King Zan. The others would never call me Elizabeth. They never had memories that clear of Antar.� Liz let out a smile at the thought that the true king was dancing with her in front of all his subjects.
�Are you feeling alright? Do you want me to get a doctor?� His amber eyes burned with concern for his wife.
�I�m fine. Really.�
--
Sam crossed the court to sit next to her husband. Erik�s sleepy little arms sought her out immediately. Carefully, they transferred him from one parent to the other. �He�s been good tonight.�
�Right. He�s only a terror for us. For everyone else... he�s �the Light�s precious gift.�� Michael mimicked what he�d heard all night from various people. �He�s sweating up a storm.�
�He always does that.� Sam kissed the top of his spiky head.
�And you? Have you been feeling better? There�s an infirmary. The medical team has been gathering full anatomy notes on hybrids.� Michael reached over and touched her hair where it fell over her shoulder.
�Michael... I�m fine.� She smiled at him for his concern. �I am feeling 100 per cent better.� Suddenly, she chuckled. �I�m supposed to be the mommy here.�
�Hush.� He crossed his arms and scowled.
Michael and Liz opened his apartment door to find Sam standing there with her head down, her black hair covering their view of her face. �Michael...�
�Hey. Come in.� Michael pulled her in.
�Hey, Samantha, right?� Liz took her from Michael and sat her down on the bed.
�Yeah.� Sam nodded stiffly.
�What happened? Did you get into a fight?� Liz tried to look at her face but the girl wouldn�t look at her. Michael nudged her out of the way and knelt in front of her.
�Will you let me see what they did to you?� He whispered. Liz shook her head as if it would never happen but to her surprise, Sam lifted her head and exposed the red handprint on the left side of her face. It was definitely going to bruise. �God, Sam.�
�I talked back to her.� Sam murmured to him.
�Hey, it�s ok. You�ll just stay here for a while.� Michael took her into his arms. Liz watched on in silence. She had never seen her cousin so tender with anyone... anyone. All the pieces fell into place. Michael helping Sam during training sessions, the hickeys on his neck when he�d show up for work late, the way that he and Maria had cooled things off and stopped fighting. �You don�t have to go back. Stay here.�
�Michael... I�m not going to cry.� She swore to him. �Just a week and I can do what I want. One week.�
�Ok. Ok. Just one more week and then you are out of there.�
�My hero.� Sam stuck her tongue out at him.
�I said hush.� Michael kissed her lips, softly. �Maybe we could get a babysitter for the night.�
�Maybe... but it can�t be Zan and Liz. He�s acting weird.� She shrugged her shoulders. �Liz will tell us soon enough.�
�Okay... what�s going on?�
�I don�t know.� She shook her head at him and leaned back in her chair. �Here they come.�
The foursome made their way over. Nancy and Jeff took a seat and waited for Zan and Liz to speak. Michael sat up and stared at his cousin, she was blushing. �What�d you do?�
�Michael...� Liz scoffed at him.
�We have some good news.� Zan interjected. �Elizabeth and I... are pregnant.�
The news was met with silence. Nancy blinked at her daughter. Jeff had the most confused expression on his face. Michael simply nodded that he had heard. That left Sam to break the silence. �Congratulations, guys.�
�Mom? Dad?� Liz couldn�t believe they didn�t have anything to say.
�Congratulations honey.� Jeff finally rose to his feet and hugged his daughter and shook hands with his son-in-law. �I�m sure he or she will be absolutely beautiful.�
--
Zan watched his wife accept congratulations from the entire population of the ship. It was official to them. They had a King, Queen and high hopes of a prince or princess. Liz felt her smile tighten with every thanks she gave. Her mother wasn�t too thrilled about being a grandmother. Liz could see why but it stung a little. Nancy Parker had been the same age as Liz when she had gotten pregnant with her. She just thought Liz was too young.
Liz looked up when Michael joined them. �Hey.�
�Look. I still think you could have waited but I�m happy that you�re happy.� He gave her a light hug and moved on. Liz then turned to her husband. He nodded and guided her away from the steady stream of people.
�See, this is why I wanted to get this over with. I remember all the fuss when my parents announced that they were going to have Vilandra.� Zan led her out of court and through the many, many corridors to their suite. Their shadow followed at a reasonable distance. �I hated the very idea of another baby stealing the attention away from me.�
�Spoiled brat.� Liz muttered.
�That I was... but I learned to love the crying, screaming, stinking bundle of pure joy.� He jumped when she snuck two fingers into his ribs. �I�m serious, Elizabeth. I am beyond overjoyed.�
�Are you sure?� Liz stopped and looked up at him. �You weren�t so sure a couple of weeks ago.�
�I am sure that I will love this child every bit as much as I love you.� His whisper breathed against her lips as his hands moved down to her abdomen. �Have you any idea how long I�ve dreamed of making a baby with you?�
�Zan...�
�Come on... before we put on a show for Deina.� Zan smirked down at his wife and nudged her through the doors to their quarters. Before the doors shut, he leaned out. �See you in the morning.�
Part 7
Liz sat on the edge of the bed and watched her husband putter around before joining her. She noticed how hesitant he was to touch her. The familiar way they had danced was gone. Zan held her hand in his and stroked the skin on the back of her hand, sneaking glances at her face every now and again. Slowly, he raised her hand to his lips and pressed a soft kiss to it. �I love you, my Queen.�
�I love you.� She smiled at his gesture.
�Good night.� He very quickly kissed her temple and slid beneath the sheets. Liz sat there stunned for a moment. Finally, she joined him. For a minute she thought he might tell her to scoot away but then he put an arm around her. Her husband of three years seemed almost shy.
--
Liz woke the next morning and pushed herself away from Zan. He repulsed her. His skin was too hot, his breath stank, his body odor was revolting, and his eyes were hideous. This was the guy she allowed into her bed every night? This was the man she married? Disgusting! �Oh God...� She moaned and quickly stumbled into the bathroom. She was going to be sick. Zan sat up and stared after her. He could hear her retching and the sound made him a little nauseous. When she emerged she wouldn�t look at him. �Get out.�
�What?� He blinked, dumbfounded.
�Get out!� He didn�t even think twice, he leapt out of bed and ran into the common room in just a pair of boxers. He stood outside their door and let it close in his face. Snickers behind him, made him turn. Immediately, he crossed his arms over his chest and took in the people lounging around, eating their breakfast of pudding-like substance and crackers.
�Morning sickness?� Michael asked, eyebrow raised.
�Did... Did Samantha behave this way after you conceived Erik?� Zan began a tour of the room as if he were fully clothed and not in his underwear.
�Did I.� Sam laughed. �I was disgusted by his very presence. I got a whiff of him the next day and vomited. Looking at him made me sick to my stomach. Don�t worry, it only lasts a couple of days.�
�Well, I need clothes.� Zan turned to Deina. �Would you?�
�Yes, sir.� Deina nodded and left to retrieve a set of fresh clothes for her king. Zan just nodded to his father-in-law and continued his trek around the room. His footsteps fell in exact time like a metronome.
�You�re making us dizzy, Zan.� Michael scrunched up his nose.
�I just believe this to be odd.� Zan replied slowly then turned to Jeff and Nancy. �I was curious... seeing as you are half Antarian... what type of symptoms did you experience?�
�From what Mother Claudia told me... mine were almost the opposite.� Nancy set down her glass of blue fluid and turned to Max. �I didn�t feel this repulsion that I was told I would feel. My cravings were things that Jeff tended to eat. Everything plain; vanilla ice cream, milk, nothing spicy. Liz thinks it has something to do with the suppression tactics.�
�But... Liz is more like me.� Samantha interceded from where she was wrestling her son into compliance. �I couldn�t stand to be near Michael or anything that smelled like Michael for three days after the initial 12 hours following... conception I guess.�
�What else was there?� Michael scratched his head. �After the nights sleeping in the hallway... there came the out of season cravings. Grapes in December... watermelon, key lime pie. Nothing that could be found within the meager confines of Roswell. I recall... quite a few trips to Mexico to get her food cravings.�
Deina reappeared and handed Zan his clothes. She started to say something but stopped herself. He gestured for her to speak. �I heard the announcement that the Queen is with child... from what I�ve gathered... this is a recent development.� Zan nodded. �I would suggest, King Zan, that you take to the extra room in the suite during this particular time frame.�
�I�ll be back, then. Let me know how she is.� Zan disappeared into the extra room.
�Ah Maz, ah Lis, ah papa ahna bebe ahna bibi.� Erik jabbered away as he tried to squirm out of his mother�s grasp.
�I think we should tell him about the whole baby coming out. I think that might bring him to his knees about as quickly as the pamper did.� Michael smirked and pulled Erik into his lap.
�Don�t totally scare him. He�s got ten more months to freak about that.� Sam chided her husband and started in on her meal.
--
Liz showered but still, his scent was all over her. It was all over the room. Why was this happening? Then her stomach growled something fierce. She was starving but the thought of holding down food while his foul scent was in her nostrils seemed impossible. Out of the room was what she needed. She stepped out into the common room and gagged. He had been there.
�How are you feeling?� Nancy approached her daughter.
�Retched.�
�Lizzie, are you okay?�
�I�m physically okay.� She nodded to her father�s question and sat at the table to eat. �I�m just in a mood. Where is he?�
�Zan went to talk to the medical examiners.� Sam filled in. �The guys want us checked out.�
�Why? I am fine.� Liz stuck her nose in the air.
�I don�t know what Zan thinks but Michael thinks something�s up with me and I told him that I feel fine...� Sam took a seat at the table and watched Erik and Jeff play. �I think Michael�s really just upset about Maria.�
�Oh Sam, I�m sure that�s not it.�
�No, I�m serious. She was his first girlfriend and then they broke up and I moved in on him. I drove them further apart. They were at least friends before Michael and I started openly dating.� Sam sighed stared at her son.
�That is not your fault. It�s actually Maria�s. She thought she and Michael were still a non-couple and everyone... including Michael thought they were finally broken up.� Liz explained.
--
�Okay, explain this to me again.� Michael held his hands out imploringly for the crewmember to listen. �Tess... I mean Avaria, she traveled from Earth to Antar in like a couple of days... What was it, Zan? A week?�
�Yeah, six Earth days and nights.� Zan nodded.
�Yes.� The crewman nodded. �Hanar and his people helped to transfer the former Queen. Their technology surpasses any in the Antarian or Monoan worlds. They were generous enough to lend out the ship for transfer in that emergency. Unfortunately it was a... one time deal as the humans say.�
�Okay, so they don�t like to share.� Michael scowled.
�Well, your technology is faster than ours and I believe that Zan was in the process of sharing with Larek before his death but... Well, we apologize for the length of our travel time but we are happy to see you home.� The crewman bowed his head.
�Maybe some of our engineers survived. We�ll try to improve on that for the trip back to earth.� Zan stroked his goatee then ran a hand through his hair. �I would like to know about the communication system on board.�
�See, this is how it works.� The crewman turned to a panel beside him. �If there are the correct type of devices... anywhere on the planet, in space, then we have means of communication.�
�Are any of these devices on Earth?� Michael prompted. The crewman tilted his head in confusion and turned to Zan, who was waiting as well.
--
�So... you�ll watch Erik?� Sam glanced at Liz uncertainly.
�Sure. It�s fine. You guys need to talk... and �talk�. So it�s cool.� Liz reassured her and stared at her reflection. Sometimes she couldn�t believe that she was the same girl who once ran the Future Scientists of America club. Now she was the Queen of a planet. She was married to a king and she was pregnant with either a prince or a princess. It was overwhelming.
�He swears I�m sick but I�m not.� Sam pulled at her hair and tried to tame it.
�He�s just looking after you.�
�Yeah... I guess.�
--
Michael and Zan listened to the �doctor� explain what was going on with their wives. �Human and Antarian DNA are very different. There are similarities but bone structure and biological function run a bit differently. The hybrids have combined the two. We didn�t even realize this was possible but now that we know for sure, it�s been a little easier to study.�
�So why were they so... tired after they boarded the ship?� Michael prompted.
�It has to do with the fact that they are both natural hybrids and that they are both women. Several Expatriate hybrid women came in during the first week or so after we left earth. They all complained of fatigue, lethargy, and loss of appetite.� She brought up a file in what appeared to be Monoan and read it over. �A few of them allowed me to do some tests and... from what I could tell...�
�What? What is it?� Zan crossed his arms and turned his ear to hear better.
�Well, it�s the human factor. When human women menstruate, they develop a pattern that can easily be disrupted and reset in a different pattern as a result of a change in lifestyle, diet or how many people they live closely with... or even stress. Antarian women have set patterns or cycles which include the longer cycle and shorter ovulation time.� She hit a button and the screen scrolled down. �Since we�re dealing with Antarian/Human hybrids...�
�Can you just tell us please?� Michael pushed for the doctor to get to the point.
�The human factor is influencing the biological function here. Maybe it�s the change in gravity, the propulsion of the engines or the close quarters with so many people but... the women I studied... their cycles shifted in the days following departure from the earth Solar system.�
�I think I get it.� Zan nodded. �My wife was supposed to ovulate the night after we boarded but she was fatigued at first. She didn�t ovulate until yesterday. You�re staying their cycles have shifted and it took a toll on their bodies.�
�Exactly.�
�So... Sam... the reason she was tired and wouldn�t eat was because she was shifting her cycles?� Michael squinted at the doctor.
�Yes.� She scanned over the information once more. �It should have cleared up by now. No one has gotten... sick as you would say. Everything should be fine. I would like to have documents of everyone�s health for my studies. Especially after we reach Antar.�
Part 8
Liz daintily ate at her meal and listened to the doctor. She wasn�t paying attention and all she really wanted was to climb back in bed between fresh sheets and away from her so-called husband. She had Deina cleaning the room while she was out. Liz really didn�t see why she should be put out of her own room when all it needed was a good cleaning.
�10 months. I�ve not found why exactly it takes so long for these hybrid babies to form well enough to survive but that had been the average thus far.� The doctor kept talking. �King Zan has told me that you are repulsed by him... this will pass in a few days. It�s normal. I�m afraid that we don�t have too much in the way of food for any cravings you might have.�
�Huh?� Liz turned her head slightly.
�And I see your attention span has shrunken. It is to be expected.� The doctor clasped her hands in front of her. �May I ask a question about King Zan?�
�What did you want to know?�
�Well, as a scientist... I would just like to know what effects the Granilith had on him... aside from the bodily merging and the marking.� She gestured to her own forehead to show she meant his hair color.
�Well, he experiences personality shifts from time to time. There are three of them but he�s never aware of the switch.� Liz shrugged. She had already gotten used to it.
�You mean he has no knowledge of the switch.�
�No. I mean he�s not schizophrenic.� Liz shook her head at the doctor. �I mean that he isn�t aware that he is different, that he switches. It can happen in mid-sentence and we know because his attitude is different. To him, nothing�s changed. To him, he�s still making perfect sense.�
�How do you differentiate?�
�Well, there�s Max. He�s the emotional center. He�s kind and caring, responsible and devoted. Zan reincarnated is the instinct driven side. He�s animalistic, his senses seemed to be heightened.�
�So where Max responds on a emotional level, Zan responds on a physical level.�
�Essentially.� Liz nodded. �And then there�s the True Zan. He�s the intellect. You could say he responds on a mental level.�
�Wow, this is very interesting. Thank you, my queen.�
--
Michael followed Sam around as she tried to avoid the conversation. �I�m just saying that we need a night to ourselves.�
�Michael... I don�t want to just throw Erik on your aunt and uncle.� Samantha protested. �Liz is not in any state to take care of him and Zan... is afraid of children.�
�Come on...� Michael caught up to her and wrapped his arm around her waist from behind, nuzzling her head to the side so he could speak lowly in her ear. �You can�t tell me that a night without getting up to get juice doesn�t sound good. A night without interruptions. Without dirty pampers, without crying and cookies. Just you and me like it was in the beginning...�
Sam lifted her head from Michael�s pillow and glanced at the clock. They were going to be late if they didn�t stop... but his mouth felt so good where it tasted her neck and then where his hands teased and caressed her body. �Michael... training, ten minutes.�
�So.� He didn�t even look up from his task. His hands continued their undertaking of caressing her bared chest. Both their shirts had been long since discarded.
�It�s your turn to lead exercises.� She reminded him. It�s not that she wanted to stop what they were doing but he did have a responsibility to the group. Besides, they could always come back and finish later.
Michael shifted his body downward and took one brown nipple into his mouth, laving his tongue around it until she purred. Then he let go and got up. �Let�s go.�
�You are a cruel, cruel man.� Sam whimpered but got up to refasten her bra and find her shirt. Michael pulled his own shirt over his head and grabbed his jacket. He was almost out the door before she yanked him back. Their mouths crushed together, tongues lashing for an incredibly long moment before pulling apart. �Let�s go.�
�You�re right, we can�t have any PDA, can we?� He muttered as he opened the door. �After you.�
�I�m telling you, this is a good rule.� Sam followed him out to his bike and climbed on after him. �I can�t stand people who constantly make-out in public. It�s disgusting.�
�Whatever. You just don�t want anyone telling your parents that you�re with me. It�s fine with me. I don�t give a shit.� He shrugged and sent the bike into motion, speeding through town until he reached the old soap factory.
Sam greeted Liz and Max when she walked past them to get into the main training area. She barely noticed when Liz flashed her a smile and whispered something to Max. A few minutes later, Michael joined them. Clapping his hands, he moved to his spot at the head of his army and demanded attention. Max snorted at his friend�s antics. It didn�t matter that Michael was the one that was late, he still carried on as if everyone else was just too slow and needed to focus. Liz made her way over to Sam and began the workout.
�So... Sam.� Liz started.
�What?� Sam asked without turning her attention from Michael and what he was telling them to do.
�You�re staying at Michael�s?� Liz bit back a small smile.
�Yeah, just until I can get my own place. I�ve been looking for a job.�
�I could always talk to my dad about getting you on at the Crashdown.� Liz whispered.
�It�s okay. I put in applications at the video store and the pizza place. I�m cool. Thanks anyway.� Sam tried not to think about the fact that she had never spoken so many words to Liz before and vice versa. She chalked up to the scene at Michael�s five months before. It wasn�t long before they broke into small groups for other training sessions.
Michael and about three other people joined Sam for joint power exercises. �From what we can tell... making a connection will strengthen powers five fold... but we�ve only tried it with people who are comfortable making the connection together. I�d ask for volunteers but this isn�t the type of exercise for just any person. Sam.�
�What?� Her eyes widened.
�Come on. You and me, we�ll demonstrate.�
�But... I�ve never made a connection before.� She hissed at him.
�Do you trust me?�
�Yeah but.�
�Get over here.� Michael rolled his eyes. He placed his hands on the sides of her face and whispered so that only she could hear him. �I won�t hurt you. Trust me and we�ll do this. I didn�t want just anyone poking around in my head. You ready?� She nodded slowly and then he raised his voice so the others could hear his instructions. �Okay, here�s the deal. You should practice just making the connection at first. Clear your mind and slow your breathing...�
Sam�s body gave a small jolt when Michael entered her mind. He lingered for a bit then drew her into his head. The feelings were overwhelming. He felt like that about her? He thought she was beautiful? He thought he might love her?
Michael breathed in sharply when he entered her mind. Her emotions leapt out at him. She was scared but she did trust him... with her life she trusted him. He saw himself through her eyes and it made him... humble. She looked to him as a protector, someone she could turn to for anything. She thought he was wonderful the way he was. She wanted to rip his clo�Swiftly Michael pulled her into his head. He then just let them get used to the feeling of being connected before gently breaking it off.
�Wow.� Michael whispered before turning to his group. �Now, that was the first time that I�ve ever done that on a one on one basis. You should never force anything like that. Find a partner to practice with, someone you trust... and then we�ll go out and I�ll show you what you can do with this combined energy.�
Liz nudged Max and they made their way to where Michael and Sam were standing stock-still. �Max, it�s more serious than I thought. She�s staying with him and did you see the way she looks at him?�
�Liz, I really don�t think that there�s anything there.� Max protested. �I�ve never seen them talk to each other anywhere.�
�Max.� Liz shook her head at him. �This is Michael we�re talking about. He�s not going to tell us if they are together and from what I�ve seen... she trusts him and he likes comforting her.�
Michael explained to Sam what they were going to do. He stepped behind her and wrapped an arm around her middle. They made a connection and raised their right hands to the fence in front of them. The fence suddenly began to dry out and crack, disintegrating before their eyes. Then suddenly it went back to the way it was before. Looking to his left, Michael spotted Liz and Max, hands linked. They were reversing their destruction. �Give me a little more energy, Sam.�
�Look at them.� Liz whispered. �They�re thinking as one.�
�I guess.� Max whispered back as Michael and Sam won the little battle over the fence.
�Michael...� Sam leaned back into his arms. It really did seem like a great idea, but not until after Liz was doing better. By then... it would be their anniversary. Three years since they had been married. Right after she graduated, she and Michael had gotten married, the next week they had announced Erik�s conception. �Three days. It�s a date.�
�Three days?� He groaned and started kissing on her neck. �Come on...�
�Just until Liz is alright, then she can watch him. What exactly did you have planned?� She tilted her head allowing him more access to the sensitive flesh. He never answered her, he just opened up their connection and sent her images.
Michael was desperate to get back to the apartment after that evening�s training session. He had her thoughts swimming around in his head, driving him slowly insane. The second the door closed, they were all over each other. Michael knew there was no way he�d be able to stop himself tonight. He claimed her with his mouth, hands sliding into her hair and under her shirt. Sam walked backward, pulling him with her, until they both toppled onto the bed.
This bed they had shared for little more than a week, that they had been making out on for about six months. Sam had meant to leave home back in December after her birthday but she kept putting it off until finally it was May and school was almost out. They still had about a week of school left and then Michael was free and clear. She still had one more year that Michael kept insisting that she had to do.
Without realizing that she had done it, Sam made Michael�s shirt disappear. All she had wanted was to feel his bare back beneath her hands and his shirt had simply vanished. Michael groaned suddenly and her shirt became nothing but air. It became a war to see who could make the most clothes evaporate with just their minds.
Even still, their minds refused to acknowledge the lack of clothing despite the thoughts of the other�s desires brought forth in their connection earlier that evening. It was a slight shock when their bare lower bodies met, heat against heat. The contact of his erection with her bare thighs, sobered them just enough to break their kisses.
Michael brushed her black hair out of her face and lifted his weight off her slightly. �Samantha?�
�Don�t call me that.� She whispered, unable to focus her eyes on anything but his lips hovering just inches away from her face.
�Do you want to?� His voice cracked but he cleared his throat and waited for her response. Her eyes closed and she took a deep breath.
�Michael... I haven�t... ever... you know.� She spared him one glance and closed her eyes again.
�Me either.� His honest answer made her eyes open to his in an expression of complete adoration. �Do you want to?�
�Yes.� Sam nodded with a slight smile on her lips and heat creeping into her face in lieu of an actual blush.
�You sure?� He swallowed thickly, sliding his hands down her sides and back up.
�Are you?� she countered. Her fingers slid into his hair, drawing his head down to hers. �Michael, I...�
�What? What is it?� Michael started to panic at the strange look in her eyes.
�Nothing.� She shook her head. �It�s nothing. Make love to me, Michael.�
�Ok.� Michael nodded and lowered his lips to hers. The kiss started gentle but quickly became more passionate on both their parts. His hands found their way to her ample breasts, kneading and caressing them as their mouths fought for dominance. Sam shivered as his calloused fingertips brushed over her distended nipples. Her own hands slid down his back and up his arms, touching the muscles that had become harder and more defined since she first met him.
Their legs rubbed against each other�s and tongues collided, foretelling of events to come. Sam ran her hands down his chest and stomach, then gasped when her hand came in contact with his erection. Hesitantly, her fingers traced the length of him, measuring him against her stomach and wondering how in the world he was supposed to fit inside her. Leaving her mouth, Michael burned a trail down her throat and her across her chest.
His mouth closed over the same sweet nipple that he had tasted before they had gone to train. His tongue laved the sensitive flesh, teeth lightly scraping the hardened bud. �Oooh... Michael...�
Switching breasts, his hands traveled down her to her thighs. His hands stroked up and down the insides of her thighs in a pattern that Max had told him about. He just wanted to be sure that she was ready. Every couple of up-strokes, his hands would come in contact with damp curls. Sam arched her back as her chest heaved with her shallow intakes of breath. Was he trying to drive her insane? �Michael... please...�
Her fingers curled around his throbbing cock, squeezing slightly, eliciting a moan that traveled through her body in long vibrations. Feeling her body shiver, Michael lifted his head away from her chest, releasing her nipple and staring into her face. Her eyes were dilated, her lids drooping, her lips parted to release her pants for breath and if her skin had been lighter, it would show how flushed she was. He let one hand continue on from stroking her thigh to rubbing against her wet folds. She was so hot that he couldn�t suppress a moan of desire. A finger slid easily into her tight entrance, making her mouth open in a silent cry.
Gently, Michael parted her thighs and lay between them. Hissing when his cock came in contact with the wet curls covering her inflamed flesh. Their mouths met, devouring each other passionately as he pushed inside her quickly. She was so tight and hot. �Sam... oh, ah. Sam.�
She blinked back the tear that threatened to spill out as her barrier was torn. She felt so incredibly full and completed by this man. She heard him say her name, his voice so thick with some indescribable passion. Just the expression on his face just centimeters from hers made the stinging fade away to nothingness. Her face flushed, scorching with this knowledge that she loved Michael and even if he didn�t love her back... she would have this perfect night.
He began moving inside her tight walls, slowly at first then gaining more speed and force. Michael felt the sweat forming between their bodies, easing the friction as he moved on top of this beautiful creature. He captured her beautiful lips after he watched them part with a small moan. Her hands gripped his back, trying to keep the contact between their bodies as complete as possible. Dragging his mouth down to her throat, he listened to and felt every moan and cry she released.
Sam felt the pleasure building in waves. He was so big and he went so deep inside her that she began crying out incoherently. He drove into her body harder and faster, increasing the waves that threatened to swallow her whole. If possible he seemed to swell even larger inside her. A tidal wave of utter bliss swept over her. �Michael!�
Michael let out a growl when her walls tightened unbearably around him. Then fire ripped through his cock as he spilled himself deep inside of her with a gasp. �Ah... Sam.�
When Michael came out of it, Sam was pressing kisses to his forehead and stroking his back, his sore back. Had she really scratched him? He closed his eyes and rested his head between her breasts. He had no inclination to move out of or away from her supple body. His heart rate and breathing returned to normal. It felt so good to have her touching and kissing on him, her legs swinging slightly on either side of him. He barely heard her hoarse whisper. �I know you can�t hear me but... I love you, Michael.�
Those words tugged at his heart. He had known that she had found him attractive and that she trusted him but... she loved him? Michael knew that he was falling for her but could she really love him? He did the only thing he could think of. She thought he was asleep but he�d have to prove to her that he wasn�t and that he had heard her. He lifted his head and gave her a sweet kiss on the lips. �Sam... I love you, too.�
�Michael... you�re making this so hard on me.� She whispered, meeting him for a kiss over her shoulder. �Maybe just this once... mmm... we could ask your uncle.�
�Glad you see it my way.� Michael murmured against her lips. His hands began a trip up towards her breasts when someone cleared their throat.
�Excuse me, did you lose this?� Zan gestured to the laughing little boy on his shoulders.
�Do you see what I mean?� Michael growled into her ear before releasing her to retrieve their son. �Hey Chief. You still have the worst timing ever.�
�And you don�t?� Zan cocked an eyebrow in his second�s direction. He scanned the area for his wife but didn�t find her. The door to his room opened and out stepped Deina. She greeted him with a bright smile. �Deina... Is Elizabeth in there?�
�No, King Zan, she�s having lunch with the Chief Medical Examiner.� The young girl shook her head. �Is there something I could do for you?�
�Um... yeah, actually. Let�s go into my room, please.� Zan gestured to his temporary quarters. He waved to the Guerins and disappeared after her into the room.
�What�s that about?� Sam glanced at her husband then at the door the two had just passed through.
�I don�t know...� Michael narrowed his eyes in the dame direction. Then Erik started jabbering away in his own little language.
�Dada, ah Zan ahna bol oussa ahna lala ahna keek.� Erik smiled, all but his eyeteeth in place. �Ah hunnie, Mama.�
�Oh my poor baby. Are you hungry?� Sam plucked him out of Michael�s arms and sat him at the table.
�Ah hunnie, Mama, ah hunnie. Ah fra-fries.� He gave his mother a pitiful look.
�Oh... we don�t have any French fries... how about some pudding and crackers?� Sam asked him and watched his little bottom lip stick out in a pout.
�Hold on.� Michael hit the button for room service. �I�m a cook. I�ll bet I could have that goop tasting good with a little help.�
--
Liz strode into the common room of their suite and took in the smells. She glanced around and sure enough, the Guerins were enjoying burgers and fries. �When the heck did we get actual food?�
�Well, you see... I�ve manipulated the structures of goop and stale crackers into actual food that my kid will actually eat.� Michael explained and smirked at his cousin�s glare.
�It�s good. Want half of mine?� Sam held up her burger.
�No thanks. I just had a bowlful of extra-nutritional goop myself.� Liz shook her head. �Where�s Zan?�
Michael and Sam exchanged glances. They had forgotten all about him. Was he still in there with Deina? They both looked to his room.
�Good. I can still smell him in here as it is.� She stuck out her tongue and went into her own room.
Michael saw the way his wife stared at the royal bedroom and he shook his head. �Don�t tell her until after I�ve talked to him.�
�But��
�No, buts. It�s probably nothing and I�m not going to have you upset her when we�re supposed to be together tonight. Because then you�re going to be with her all night and I�m going to be running back and forth doing the Light knows what to contain the situation.� Michael finished and glanced at Zan�s room. �In half an hour if no one comes out you can tell her.�
�Ok.� She nodded.
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