Roswell Fanatics

Part 30

After lunch, Max excused himself and said he had some errands to run.

Max walked towards the West Wing of the palace where his parent's quaters were located. he had to let them know about Liz's condition and of their upcoming wedding plans.

Max tapped on the door.

"Enter." It was his mother's voice.

Max entered and kissed his mother on both cheeks.

"Hello mother."

"Maxwell, what beings you here today?"

Max lead her to the twin seats and sat them both down.

"Mother, where's father? there's something I need to discuss with the both of you."

"Your father's away on business in Spain. He won't be back until late next week. Would you care to discuss it with me first until your father gets back?"

Max thought for a moment, then nodded. It might be best speaking to his mother anyway. She would probably understand and relate better to Liz.

"Mother, Liz is pregnant, and we're thinking of having a wedding in two weeks time rather than next month as planned."

The queen was silent for a moment.

"I see. Max, you should have been more careful. Why didn't you wait until you were married to engage in the ultimate act of intimacy? Never mind, don't answer that."

Her son was a young man, but a man none the less, and men weren't exactly well known for their self-control when it came to the opposite sex and intimacies.

Max blushed crimson. Alright, he should have expected this but it still felt weird to be discussing his sex life with his mother.

"Guess the tea didn't work huh?" He scratched behind his ear sheepishly. Liz had been drinking a special kind of tea that regulated her reproductive cycle, it altered her hormones so as not to release an egg to be fertilised.

Suddenly Max's thought came to a dead stop. Liz had only begun drinking it AFTER their first time together, so that would mean.....

"As much as I want grandchildren, I hadn't expected it so soon. It makes me feel old." The queen joked.

Max brought his attention back to his mother.

"Max, you know we frown upon babies being born out of wedlock. Its not pleasant for a child to go through that talk and ridicule. But I can see the sensible part in getting married so soon."

Max nodded.

"How is Liz feeling?"

"She's tired most of the time, she hardly keeps the little food she eats down. She also very......moody. She snapped at me this morning."

"It's probably just hormones. Your poor father was subjected to an earful when I was carrying you. " She laughed at the memory. "The best you can do Max, is be there when she needs you, but also give her the space she wants."

"I just want to take care of her."

"I know you do sweetheart, but too much can be overbearing. She's still an individual who can do things for herself. Don't treat her like an invalid. You'll only irritate her even more, and combine that with hormones, well, lets just say it's a minefield you won't want to cross."

Max listened to his mothers advice, taking it all in.


Later that night, Max went to Liz's room to see how she was doing and to wish her goodnight. He hadn't seen her since she stormed off on him that morning. Opening the door, he was met with an empty room.

Where was Liz?

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

Liz was in the stables stroking a chestnut mare named autumn. Liz liked the peacefulness of the place; she just had to get away from real-life for a while and clear her head.

She sighed as she fed autumn a carrot stick.

"Oh! I'm sorry, didn't know anyone was here."

Liz turned to see a hooded figure retreating.

"No, wait! it's all right, you can stay."

The figure turned back around and pulled back her hood. She smiled sheepishly at Liz.

"Maria, what are you doing up so late?" Liz enquired.

Maria walked over to Liz and petted the horse.

"I could ask you the same thing Miss Elizabeth." She gave Liz an amused smile.

"I couldn't sleep. I came out here to clear my head."

Maria knew the feeling.

"It's nice out here. I came out to see the horses, and its a good place to contemplate on matters that bother the soul."

"Do you come out here a lot?" Liz looked a Maria with curiosity.

"Only when I can. But only after hours, I never abandon my post. Please don't tell anyone, I want this to be my own personal time, and I really do love horses." she said earnestly and compassionately.

Liz smiled. "Don't worry Maria, I won't tell a soul. My lips are sealed." She made a gesture of buttoning up her mouth.

"Thank you." Maria said gratefully.

Silence was filled with faraway chirps from the crickets and other night insects.

"Liz, what's on your mind? It might help to talk about it. I'm a good listener, and maybe I can even help you out."

Liz gave a sad little sigh.

Silence

"Maria, I'm so confused right now. I don't know what I'm feeling and don't really know what to do anymore. You know, I actually yelled at Max this morning, and he was only asking about my well-being."

"What were you angry at?"

"I guess it was when I saw him having lunch with Tessaline."

"They didn't invite you?"

"Max said I was still asleep and didn't want to wake me." Liz bit her lower lip. She continued to stroke the horse for a while unsure of whether to tell Maria of what was really bothering her. She looked at Maria. Kindness and trust worth radiated off her, and Liz really wanted a girlfriend to talk to, someone to confide in. "Maria, what do you think of Tessaline? and please be truthful."

Maria hesitated before answering.

"Well, in all honesty, I don't really know her very well. But from surface impressions," Maria hesitated yet again. "well, um, lets just say that she really doesn't value people of a lower stature to her. God knows what would happen if she ever became queen. We'd probably all be at her mercy! But luckily that hasn't happened."

Liz smiled to herself. At least she wasn't alone in disliking Tessaline.

"Why do you want to know?"

"Oh, um, well, see....I hate Tessaline. I know that she and Max are friends, and that she likes him...a lot, I know that they were meant to marry, and probably would have if I hadn't come along, but I did and Max fell in love with me, not her. She keeps saying these nice things and doing these nice things for me, she claims she's accepted our engagement, but then why do I feel as though she's still set out to do whatever she can to claim him back? Doesn't she know that it will never work?" Liz's eyes were wide and pleading.

Maria placed her hands on either side of Liz and tried to calm her.

"Shh....Miss Elizabeth--"

"Liz, I prefer to be called Liz." Liz sniffed.

"All right, Liz. You know, none of us really like Miss Tessaline."

"You mean the other servants?"

"Yes." Maria gave a big happy smile. "In fact, we all hate her so much we've nicknamed her Gerbiline"

Liz bursted out laughing. A proper hearty tears-in-your-eyes laugh. It felt good. Really good, as though a weight had been lifted from her shoulders.

"Liz, his highness loves you. He'll probably move heaven and earth if he could for you. It's so evident in the way he treats you and its so hard to ignore that lovesick puppy dog look on his face. No matter what Miss Tessaline tries, if his highness hasn't succumbed to her charms by now, chances are he won't ever, since he seems to only have eyes for you."

"Oh god! I feel so bad for yelling at him this morning. He's going to hate me for it." Liz spoke dejectedly.

"Liz, Liz, chica, you're pregnant. It's your hormones talking, being mean and playing havoc on your emotions., believe me I know. But he will understand."

Liz took a deep breath and nodded. Then looked at Maria with a frown. It was the way she had spoke of her earlier sentence.

"What did you mean by 'believe me I know?'"

Maria's eyes went wide when she realized she'd accidentally revealed too much.

"Oh, um...." Maria looked at the ground. She'd never shared this information with anyone before. Not even the father of the baby, who she had met one summer in France. He had just simply disappeared one day, but he had been mysterious when they had been together, secrets he hid from her, but he had kept saying that he had wanted to be a normal person, and that she made him feel that way. Very strange, but she liked him none-the-less, even began falling for him. "I uh...I had a baby once; but I miscarried."

Before Maria knew what was happening, Liz engulfed her in a huge bear hug.

"Oh! I'm so sorry Maria."

Maria could hear the sincerity and sympathy in her voice and was deeply touched.

"It was a while ago now. But I thank you for your sincerity."

They pulled back and Maria wiped tears from her eyes. They gave a weepy laugh.

"You know, it's getting late, you should get some rest. the baby certainly needs the rest to grow."

"All right."

Together, the two women, who had become firm friends over a short span of time since Liz's arrival, walked back to the palace.

"Listen, Liz, if you ever need anyone to talk to or even just for some company, I'll always be around if you need me."

Liz smiled and hugged Maria for the second time that night.

"Thank you Maria."

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

Liz entered her room and quickly got changed and crawled into bed as it was chilly.

Winter was already nearly upon them.

Snuggling into the covers, Liz closed her eyes and thought back to her earlier conversation with Maria. She was right, her hormones really were out of wack. How could she have thought all those things about Max? She felt guilty. He didn't deserve her outburst. Well, she'll just have to apologise tomorrow.

Liz was about to drift off when she heard a knock on the door.

"Who is it?" she called out sleepily.

"It's Max." he said entering.

"It's late, why are you still up?"

Max took off his shoes and crawled into bed with Liz. He pulled her into his arms and held her spoon fashion.

"I was worried about you. I went looking for you when I found you weren't in your room. Where did you go?"

"The stables. I needed to think."

Max held her tighter. She was fine. Safe in his arms.

"Max, about this morning when I yelled at you. It was uncalled for and I'm really sorry."

Max kissed her forehead.

"That's all right Liz. You're pregnant, and crazy hormones can do that to you. I guess I can be a bit overbearing sometimes."

"You do it because you care Max. So do you forgive me?"

"There's nothing to forgive."

"Max, please....."

"All right, all right. I forgive you,"

Liz snuggled into his chest and breathed in his scent.

"Thank you."

They stayed in a comfortable silence for a while just enjoying being in each other's company and strengthening their bond again.

"Say, Liz, how tired are you?"

"I seem to be getting more awake than tired. Why do you ask?"

"Well, I was thinking maybe you would enjoy a little midnight rendezvous with yours truly." he said suggestively wiggling his eyebrows up and down.

"Liz giggled. "Why Mr Evans, how wicked of you to suggest such things to a lady."

"A lady who has a darker side to her passion as I have already seen. All I need to do is bring it out of her."

Max began to tickle Liz mercilessly and she squealed in laughter and protest. She tried to stop him with her hands by trying unsuccessfully to grab his hands and to push him away. She was no match for him....or was she? A light bulb went off in her head.

Liz yanked his head down and kissed him with passion. He stopped tickling her and kissed her back with equal passion. He lifted up his head for breath and gazed down at her.

"You don't play fair. You see? you do have a darker evil side to you. You're such a temptress, bringing a man down on his knees with just one kiss."

"I guess your job of bringing her out is done."

"Now lets see what else she can do, and how long I can withstand her seductive powers."

"That will be a battle in which I shall win and you will lose Mr Evans."

"At least I'll die a happy man." Max said before lowering his head and claiming her lips once more.

This will be a battle he would gladly lose. And so the battle of passion between them raged on into the distant night.


TBC!! lots of nice long/short feedback please!!

Part 31

2 nights later

The dim darkness cloaked the two figures. Her seductive voice curled around him like the fog, manipulating his senses, blinding his true sight.

She handed him a pouch of coins.

"You'll get the other half of the payment when the task is completed."

She pulled her hood up and walked of into the misty night.

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

The next morning, Tessaline woke up bright and early to begin packing her belongings. Opening the wardrobe, she took out her dresses and placed them on her bed ready for the servants to pack it later. She looked wistfully at a white and silver dress, it had belonged to her mother, and it would have made a wonderful wedding dress. Her eyes saddened for a moment. She took it over to the mirror and placed it over in front of her body. She gazed at her reflection. It would have been so perfect. Tessaline's eyes hardened. But then that little wench had to come and take it from her. But it would all soon be put right, and she would be queen like she suppose to be......destined to be. Her grandma had told her so when she was a little girl. Her grandma had the gift to predict futures, but it was a secret shared only between the two of them. No one else knew about it.

She had tried to remedy the problem herself, but it wasn't enough. But now, now she had help. Help from foolish men who were easily lead around by their body parts. Foolish men who allowed themselves to be manipulated. They were men in places that Tessaline needed access to in carrying out her plan.

She looked over at the hour glass, then back at her reflection, An evil spread across her face.

"Soon."

She flung her head back and twirled around the room like a little girl, holding her dress to her protectively.

An evil cackle erupted from her throat.

"Very soon!"

A knock at the open door made Tessaline freeze mid-twirl. her eyes wide. It was Maria and Mary-beth. Mary-beth also had a sister who worked for the royal family if she remembered correctly, since both girls looked similar to each other. The girl's sister was Mary...something..... But to Tessaline, it didn't matter she couldn't recall the name, to her, they were all the same. Mere servants. People of the lower class. People unworthy of her grand stature.

"Um, Miss Tessaline, are you ready for us to pack your belongings?" Maria asked tentatively.

"How long have you been standing there spying on me?!" Tessaline accused cruelly, her eyes blazing.

"We just came in Miss." Mary-beth defended.

"Well don't just stand there, get to work! what do we pay you for?" her voice spit venom.

"Yes Miss." Both girls said un unison and bowed their heads. They quickly set to work. Gerbiline was on one of her power-trips again.

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

Later that evening, Max sat in his study, his hands folded across his chest. His life was finally getting back to normal. Tessaline had left that afternoon promising another visit soon, and his life with Liz was finally back on track; plus Liz seemed more happier with Tessaline gone. She focused her spare time in planning wedding ideas. His father still wasn't due back anytime soon, and he just hoped that when he did return, he would take the news well when he broke the news to him.

A knock came at the door.

"Enter."

Alfred the butler entered carrying a letter on a silver tray.

"A letter of great urgency your highness."

After Alfred left, Max opened the letter and began reading.

It was a letter from Khivar Cowan, the businessman who regularly traded business from the Americas with Verdonia. He had been at the engagement celebration not long ago if he remembered correctly. Khivar visited Verdonia on a regular basis then left only to return again; but it was all due to the nature of business handlings.

Business was something Max kept an eye on, but the letter did not bring him good tidings.

In the letter, Mr Cowan explained that two of their merchant ships trading silk had been captured and plundered by notorious pirates. It might be possible to track them down and reclaim the stock - if it hadn't already been sold by the pirates - but it could take a while, possibly from several weeks up to several months. It was critical they discuss and decide on what to do about the matter. They have other buyers and sellers who would also be affected by this and it was important to keep the economy stable.

Max sighed and rubbed his face.

Mr Cowan had asked Max to meet him in Portugal the day after tomorrow, as that's where his next business dealings took place. But Max didn't want to travel away for god knows how long leaving a pregnant Liz behind, and then there was the wedding. He didn't want to miss that, but he didn't know how long it would take to sort out business.

Max breathed out a weary breath. So much for his life getting back to normal.

Max reread the letter than placed it back in its envelope and placed it on his desk. He stared at it absently.

He had no choice. He needed to sort this mess out - for the sake of the business partnership and his country's economical stability. he would just have to go and sort out the problem as fast as possible, then return home to Liz.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Max found Liz on the highest hilly part of the garden in the clearing watching the sunset over the mountain peaks.

He sat down behind her and pulled her into his embrace, so she lay with her back to his chest sitting between the V of his legs. he placed one harm around her waist, and the other on her belly.

The gentle breeze blew at them, teasing their senses.

Max placed his head in the crook of her neck and inhaled her scent. His heart swelled with so much love he felt for her and their child she carried, it felt like bursting. he didn't know what he'd do if he ever lost her. At that thought, he held her tighter.

"I love you Liz. I love you so very much."

"I love you too Max. We love you." Liz turned her head and smiled up at him, her hand covered his on her stomach.

"Liz, I really don't want to leave you, not ever. It will pain me to be away from you even for a day. To not see your beautiful face; to see you smile; hear you talk, kiss those soft lips...." Max dipped his head and joined his lips over hers. When he pulled back, he could see the confusion and worry on her face.

"Max, what are you talking about?"

"Liz, I have to leave for Portugal the day after tomorrow. Our shipment of silk was plundered by pirates. I need to go see if we can track the ships responsible and salvage what we can.....but it could take a while. Days, weeks, even months."

A look of understanding passed between them.

Liz turned back to face the horizon before her and watched the sun dip below a mountain. The sky turned a purple-pink colour laced with orange.

A cold chilly wind passed over them making the two lovers shiver.

"I understand. You must do what you have to do."

"I really don't want to leave you Liz. If there was some other way...."

"I know. I'll miss you until the day you return; no matter how long that may be." Liz crooked her arm behind her and around Max's head, pulling him down for a kiss.

"I'll be back as soon as I can. I promise." He dipped his head and claimed her lips once more in a hungry kiss.

Above them, the stars came out to play, twinkling and shimmering with the same love the lovers below shared. A love into the end of time.


TBC! feedback please! (feel free to PM me if you want to save space on the board.)

Woohoo! I'm finally on my christmas break!! I had absoloutly no time to write these past 2-3 weeks since I had exams and report deadlines in consecutive days, which basically nearly killed me to complete. It was fine though, hey, who needs sleep anyway?!

Anyway, here's the next chapter. enjoy! oh! and thanks to everyone who left feedback!


Part 32

3 days later

Max had left for his business trip, and already Liz was missing him terribly.

To pass time, on some mornings she would have brunch with the Queen - much to the delight of the cook since Liz's appetite had increased due to her pregnancy. Then after brunch, she would take her daily exercise in the garden if it wasn't too cold. Then her next stop would be to visit the horses before returning to the palace. After an hour of rest, she would go over her wedding plans and sort out the details. During the evenings, she would talk with Maria as she got ready for bed. Having Maria and sometimes another servant girl's company was a relief for Liz. It made her feel less lonely.

Ever since Max's departure, Liz had been sleeping in Max's room as his scent and presence lingered there and Liz took comfort in it, like he was still there with her rather than thousands of miles away.

Sitting on his bed, he back propped up by pillows, Liz placed her hand over her stomach and sang to her unborn child. Liz noticed show was beginning to show, but just a little, and the dresses she wore hid her condition pretty well.

One morning when Liz went down to breakfast, she noticed the sad look on the Queen's face.

"Your Majesty, are you all right?" Liz enquired as she sat down by the table next to the Queen.

The Queen looked up startled. "Oh! I did not hear you come in. How are you feeling today my dear?" She placed her hand firmly over Liz's.

"I'm very well Your Majesty. But something seems to be bothering you. Would you like to discuss it? I'm a good listener."

The Queen smiled and patted Liz's cheek. "You're a sweet girl Elizabeth. I just received word that my husband has been delayed in Spain on his business trip. He was suppose to be due back tomorrow, but now he's unable to return for at least another week." The Queen shook her head sadly.

"You miss him don't you?" Liz asked softly but knew the answer.

"Yes, I miss him terribly. I wish he could return soon, but business matters need to be taken care of first." The queen look at Liz, and a knowing smile spread over her lips. "You miss my son just as much don't you?"

Liz nodded.

"I'm sure he's just as anxious to return as my husband."

"I know. It's just that I love him so much it's hard to be apart for so long, and there's only so much I can do in a day to pass my time. Usually Max is there for my company."

The Queen looked thoughtful for a moment.


"Remember when Maxwell first introduced you to us and the King asked you what you can offer this country? and you spoke of improving the lives of our people, such as by opening up more hospitals or schools?"

Liz nodded. She could never forget that day.

"Well, if you feel up to it, I was thinking about opening up another new school for children. The last one we did was a huge success. Perhaps you would like to organise it this year? it might give you some experience."

Liz's eyes widened in excitement and fear.

The Queen gave a merry laugh. "Don't worry, you won't be doing it alone. You can have all the help you need. Mr Summers was our chief organiser last year, he'll show you the ropes, plus it will take the stress off you. So what do you say my dear, are you up for the challenge?"

"Yes! Yes, of course I am! Thank you Your Majesty." Liz beamed and gave the startled Queen a happy hug.

The Queen smiled. Such spirit! It reminded her of her younger self.

"Now then. I'll let Mr Summers know of the arrangement, and you can start tomorrow. We really need to scout for a good location for the school. Abandoned building can be rebuilt and refurbished, or we can build from scratch on a good piece of land. It's up to you and Mr Summers to decide."

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

The next day, after Liz's regular routine, she met with Mr Summers in his office. He was a chubby man, medium in height, balding slightly at the top of his head. wore gold rimmed glasses and an immaculate grey 3 piece suit.

A huge friendly smile graced his face when Liz walked into the room.

"Ah, good day Miss Parker."

"Good-day Mr Summers, and please, call me Liz."

"Of course, and you can all me Paul. Mr Summers sounds like my father." The man chuckled.

Paul motioned for Liz to take a seat.

"The queen has already spoken to me about the arrangement. How about I update you on what we have achieved so far in the past year? and then we can decide on what to do next."

"Of course, a bit of background information is always helpful."

Paul Summers told Liz about the methods used in the past, and the success and failures of the locations chosen for a possible rebuildment or refurbishment for a new school.

After sorting out the details, Liz and Paul set out to take a look at he location's suitability.

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

"So, what do you think so far?" Paul asked Liz as they walked down the busy market place escorted by 2 palace security guards.

Liz and Paul had visited most of the locations currently selected so far. Most of the buildings could be refurbished, so there wasn't really any need to scout for land to build from scratch; plus it would be cheaper anyway. There was no need to use extra expenditure on something that could be equally as good.

"I really like the old building on St. John square. It's big enough for at least two classes, providing we knock down that wall in between, and its near the field; it would be a great place for the children to play out in at recess. It's also close to the market area, so parents can do their shopping either before or after picking up their children."

"That's very perceptive of you Miss Parker."

Liz smiled at the balding man, who she quickly became friends with in one day. Suddenly, a shout came from behind them and a crowd of people rushed towards them as they were pushed aside.

"Stop him! Thief!!" A mans voice yelled.

Liz turned to see a young boy of about almost 12 years of age barrel into her and pushed her aside. Then a group of men do the same as they chased after the boy.

Liz quickly scrambled into the mouth of an alleyway to avoid the crush of people. Immediately, she placed a protective palm over her belly.

After the crows and chaos subsided, Liz was about to step out to rejoin Mr Summers when she felt strong arms wrap around her - one across her waist and another over her mouth. Liz tried to scream for help, but her voice was muffled by the large hand. Trying to struggle free was futile, the arms that was banded around her were as strong as steel, and now they were pulling her quickly back deeper into the alley, and further away from the people who could help her Liz realised. Terror gripped her and she struggled with all her might. Suddenly something hard connected with her head, and a sharp pain started from the right of her skull then radiate out; spots danced before her eyes, the blows that followed after that didn't feel so bad as her head was already numb. Liz could feel a trail of wetness sliding down her face with every blow. She felt herself become weaker, but she did not give up; she needed to protect her baby, wanted to see Max again.

Soon, Liz ceased to move.


TBC! Ok, things could get kinda rough from here on, I've mentioned this in the beginning, and some scenes or chapters might get kinda disturbing, depending on how my writing skill is. It's jsut something I wanna try out.

Hi everyone, so how's your christmas holidays so far? I went over for a family dinner yesterday, it ws great, I spent the whole evening with my cousins playing Mario kart on the Nintendo game cube. We're sooo competitive! But we had a great laugh though.


Ok, first of all, there is NO WAY IN HELL I'm I gonna let Tess get her glutches on Max. Season 2 freaked me out too much to be reliving that again *shudders*

Nora for now, best keep those sharp objects away from you!

Max will know the whole truth in the end, and Gerbil bitch will get her just desserts.

Liz won't be in a coma. I did that in another story of mine, so don't really wanna venture there again.


Ok, I'm jsut wondering, how's my writing skills so far? I really want some critique, even if its painfully bad, please let me know. Its the only way I'll improve as a writer, and to bring you some good stories to read.

Thanks for reading! and have a HAPPY NEW YEAR!


Part 33

Liz slowly stirred awake. Her head felt as heavy as lead, as though someone had taken a sledge hammer to her skull. With effort, Liz forced her eyes to open. Her vision before her was tilted; dank grey stone walls covered in a greenish fungi patches was the only thing she could see. Then the smell hit her as she became more awake. The place - wherever she was - smelled of urine, decay and death.

Liz slowly brought her hand up to her head, which was throbbing like the dickens. She felt something wet in her tangled hair. Pulling her hand away, she could see red covering her fingers. Damn. Head wound. She was surprised she was still alive!

Clutching her head to support it, Liz slowly sat up. Looking around, she appeared to be in a prison cell; but why was she here? Pushing through the hazy fog of pain, she reached for her memories. It all came back flooding back. Scouting locations with Paul Summers, the little boy pushing past her to get away from the men chasing him, her running into an alley to avoid the crush of the crowd, being about to leave when someone had grab her and literally knocked her out.

Liz stood up and stumbled over to the door. She banged on it with her fist.

"HELLO?!! ANYONE THERE?! THERE MUST BE SOME MISTAKE AS TO WHY I'M LOCKED IN HERE!! HELLO?!!!"

Liz heard keys jangling on the other side, then the iron door creaked open. She took a step back, and the next thing she knew, a hand went hard across her face, the force sending her flying to the side wall.

"Shut up you little bitch!! People are trying to sleep here! Don't make me come back in here." the gruff voice threatened.

Liz heard the door begin to creak close. She lunged for the door.

"No wait! There's a mist--" The door slammed shut with a resounding clang. "--'ake" Liz finished weakly.

She heard the footsteps fade into the distance.

Liz slid down onto the cold floor and stared around her numbly. Her face still stung from the blow making her already injured head feel like an avalanche was going on inside.

In the single bleak looking cell, there was a bed of hay, a pot in the corner, which Liz assumed was a urinal, and a single barred window high on the far wall in front of her.

The moon glowed down on her casting a silver cold glow on the place. Liz shivered, her hands went around her arms to rub them warm. It was then she realized she was no longer in her dress, but in a brown ragged piece of cloth, that was probably once white and had seen better days. She rubbed her arms briskly and felt goose-bumps.

Why the hell was she here? Did someone mistake her for someone else? and just where the hell was she anyway? She'd have to talk to someone in the morning. She'd clear this up and everything will be fine. Liz tried to reassure herself, but she felt fear creep into her heart. She pushed it aside. She had to stay strong.

Liz looked at the moonlit sky, then down at her belly. She placed her hands over it and began to sing softly to her baby.


TBC! come on, Looooots of feedback please!! You too lurkers!!

Hi everyone,

Um, yeah judging from your responses you really want the next part. The next part isn't quite finished yet, but I figured it could be a stand alone part.

Anyway, its rally short, but hopefully it'll sustain you until I get it done lol.



Part 34a

The creaking of the iron door woke Liz the next morning. The pile of hay had given her little warmth, but she had managed to fall asleep non-the-less.

A big burly prison guard came in with a tray of unappetising food and cup of water.

"Excuse me sir, but why am I here? There must have been some mistake."

"There is no mistake wench. You know your crime, don't pretend to be all innocent. You belong here and all that's to come. You'll get what you deserve. Now eat, it may be your last." He leered at her.

"If I can just talk to the Queen--"

"You will go nowhere near the royal family with your filth." With that, he slammed the door behind him leaving Liz alone once more.

Liz sat rooted to the spot. The fear she had pushed aside came back full force. How was she suppose to clear this up if they won't let her talk to the Queen? and there was no-one else she could call for, though she doubt they would let her anyway. And just what was the crime they had accused her of? Liz thought back to the guards words: 'You belong here, and all that's to come.' Whatever was to come, Liz didn't have a good feeling about it one bit.

Crawling over to the food tray, Liz ignored the food and picked up the goblet of water instead. She took a sip, it tasted kinda funny, but if she wasn't going to eat, then she could at least survive on water for a while. Liz looked into her reflection staring back at her in the water. She looked at mess. Touching the back of her head, she was relieved to find her head had stopped bleeding. Taking another mouthful of water, Liz then poured some into her hand. After washing her face, she felt a little fresher, and with nothing more to do, she went back over to the corner of the hay pile and sang to her baby once more bonding with it.


I kinda feel bad for Liz, I know I'm to blame for writing her like this, but its jsut how the story goes. You have to go with the flow!

Hi everyone, sorry for the long wait. I've been busy with uni.


Anyway, here's the rest of part 34.

Enjoy!


Part 34b

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

Paul Summers paced around his study in agitation.

A knock came, and he beckoned whoever it was to enter.

"Did you find her?"

"No sir" "Sorry sir," "Not yet sir" The servants chorused.

"Damnation! Are you sure you've searched everywhere?"

"Yes, we split up into different search parties, but Miss Elizabeth is nowhere to be found." One of the maids replied.

After the market place incident, they had looked around for Liz to head back to the palace, but they couldn't find her. They looked around for her and assumed in the end that she had headed back to the place alone. But it was now the day after, and no one had seen or heard from her.

He had heard of how the Queen adored her son's fiancee; and right now, her being missing was not a good thing on his part, as it was his duty to look after her and keep her safe during their trip outside the place walls.

"Keep looking for her. And remember, you must keep this between us, the Queen mustn't know.... at least not yet anyway."

"Yes sir." The servants acknowledged before filing out the room.

Paul Summers really didn't want to notify the Queen just yet, there was no reason to alarm Her Majesty; plus he knew she would most likely be furious with him. No, right now he would deal with it. The young girl had to be around here..... somewhere.


TBC!! feedback please!

*peeks in*

Um, I know how you all hate me for what I'm doing to Liz and the story, but that's just the way it's heading, and its about to get worse over the next few chapters, but remember the is a twist at the end of the story that is dreamer insured no matter what goes on in the next few chapters.


This chapter might get disturbing for some readers, as it contains a rape scene. I've tried to be mild about it as possible, honesty, I can't bring myself to write something graphic about these things it just doesn't feel right.


Anyway, hopefully this chapter will be abit longer than my last one! lol.

Thanks again for your feedback!


Part 35

"Maria? You alright?" Julia, the youngest maid asked, placing a hand on her hunched shoulders.

Maria looked up startled and quickly brushed her tears away.

"I'll be all right little one. I'm just really worried about Miss Elizabeth, she's been missing for two days now, I just want her home and safe." Liz and the baby, she added silently to herself.

Julia wrapped her arms around Maria in comfort.

"Me too. We all do. Have you noticed how much brighter this place seemed to be once she came here?"

They both gave a tearful laugh.

"Yes, she was out bright star." Maria agreed.

"Maria, I think we should tell the Queen. I know Mr Summers doesn't want to, but..."

Maria nodded. They should've told the Queen right from the beginning. What if Liz was in serious trouble?

"We'll wait until tonight, and if we haven't found Miss Elizabeth, then we'll tell the Queen regardless of what Mr Summers wants. Liz could very well be in trouble."

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

The prison door creaked loudly open, and Liz quickly stood up. Two prison guards came in and leered at her, their yellow teeth showing. Liz tried not to show her disgust, but instead kept up a neutral face and to concentrate on the matter. They had company. A figure wearing a black cloak and a mask came in and stood between them.

"Is this the witch?" Guard number one asked.

"Yes, that's her." The mysterious figure replied.

Liz couldn't tell who it was as their voice was muffled under the mask and the person had disguised their voice lower.

"Please, this is some mistake!" Liz tried to reason.

"No, no mistake. You have been charged with using your witchcraft powers to bewitch the prince, who was set to marry Lady Tessaline. You used your powers to bewitch and bind him to you so that he lost all reason to be with anyone else but you. You have violated the Witchcraft Act of 1604, and that is a serious charge. "

"No, that's not true! I am not a witch!"

"Denying it won't save you. When the sun sets to four, you shall be revealed to all then punished for your despicable crime."

"No please! I'm innocent! If I could just see the Queen or the Prince--"

The figure in the cloak laughed. "You don't need to explain yourself to them my dear. They all ready know, and want nothing to do with you. They are freed from your devil spells."

Liz was taken aback by the words. This cannot be true! It was all a lie; would Max really believe in it? No. Her heart couldn't believe it.

"How does the prince know? He is away on business." Liz queried.

"He has returned to the palace yesterday."

Liz's heart began to beat to ache. Was he really back? Did he really believe that she could do anything to hurt him? She had told him once, that she was from another time and place, and he had seemed to be all right with it. Unless.... his time away from her had changed his mind and heart.

Despair settled over her like a blanket of fog. And what will become of their unborn child if anything happened to her? If he did not come to save them, but rather, sending them to their final fate.

"You know, it's such a shame that she'll be executed in a few hours, she seems sweet." The second guard said.

"It's all an illusion. There's nothing sweet about her." The cloaked figure said, disdain dripping from their voice.

"Nevertheless, mind if we play with her until her expiry time?" Guard number one spoke crudely.

"Of course, but I'd be careful if I were you. And remember, don't over do it, she needs to be alive for the trial."

"We're strong men, we can handle her. Question is, can she handle us?" They bursted into raucous laughter.

Liz back away in horror and fear.

"Enjoy yourselves gentleman." The cloaked figure left and closed the door with a bang.

One of the guards took his key and locked the door for good measure.

Together, both guards advanced slowly towards Liz, rubbing their hands together and licking their lips as if they were the predator and she their targeted prey.

Liz tried to dodge out of their attempted grasps. It was a game of cat and mouse as they circled each other around the cell.

"Ooh, a feisty one we have here." Guard number one lunged forward.

Liz tried to back away and make a run for it, but he caught her arm.

"You made us work up a sweat, now let us pay back the favour." They both laughed as they dragged a struggling Liz towards the back wall where a set of wrist and ankle chains lay chained to the wall and floor. They attached the metal cuffs on Liz.

"No getting way now my pretty."

The more Liz begged and pleased and struggled for them to stop, the more forward and turn on they became. They stripped what was left of the material from Liz's body bearing her nakedness to them. They touched and groped and squeezed, and even told her to keep on begging. Their mouths and hands were all over her, violating her. Stripping out of their own clothes, the two guards went for their ultimate goal.

Through the cold dimly lit tunnels, a woman's cries and screams echoed through the maze, while male grunts of satisfaction mingled with her distressed cries.

No one would help her.

No one would save her.

No one would hear her.

Save for the hooded figure who continued down the chilly hallway, and who smiled in satisfaction at what was being done to the woman in that single cell at the very end of the stone corridor.


TBC! Please don't hate me!

strawberry88: Um, if I do really long chapters you'd have to wait AGES for a new update! it happened to one of my other fics. Thanks for reading!

extingman: Ooh, nice long feedback! Ok, I know you have a lot of questions about Max etc, hopefully it will be explained to you in the next few chapters. I've actually already thought of an ending for this fic, you might like it! well, depending on how you see it.

Cherie: Um, well all this terrible stuff is happening to Liz cos I'm writing it. lol. kidding. It's jsut the way the story flows, plus its a good read for you...hopefully!

AznGurl87: Please don't hate me! I don't mean to torture people! and hopefully the coming chapters will answer some of your question.

roswellluver: Thanks for the feedback!

Starlight & lovalian: Yup, I really feel your hatred for tess! lol, don't worry she'll get her just deserts. Thanks for reading!

Clari: Thanks for the supportive bump! its appreciated!


Ok, on with the story!



Part 36

"Ah, Tessaline, how nice to see you again. But I'm afraid Maxwell is away on business and won't be back for a few days."

"That's quite all right Your Majesty. Would you mind if I kept you company until Max returns?"

"That's very sweet of you my dear, but there is no need, I'm sure you have plenty of other things to do, rather than spending time with an old lady such as myself." The Queen patted Tessaline's hand.

"Please, I insist, and you are not old."

The Queen chuckled, but there is no happiness.

"Your Majesty, are you feeling all right? You seem a bit peeky."

The Queen gave her a weak smile.

"I'm worried about Miss Parker. I haven't seen her for two days now. I put her on a project with Mr summers, and that was the last I've seen of her."

"Perhaps she's just very busy. Have you asked Mr Summers about her?"

"Yes, he says everything is fine, the other staff members too, but they are all acting very strange, like they are hiding something, yet they deny any problems. And I have the greatest sense of unease."

"That is a mystery." Tessaline Concluded.

They sat there for a while longer sipping tea.

"If I may, Your Majesty, I'd like to go and unpack and freshen up a bit, it has been a long journey getting here."

"Of course dear. I'll have Maria sent up to change the bedding and to see to anything else you might need."


Opening up her vanity box, Tessaline placed her cosmetics on the dresser. She looked up at her reflection in the mirror and smiled. "Soon. Soon you'll have all you've ever wanted. Maxwell Evans. And that little whore Elizabeth Parker shall soon be no more in... oh! just a few hours! I hope they give her a good beheading. The town square hasn't seen a good beheading in aeons!" She laughed in delight.

Tessaline started to hum a tune as she continue to empty the contents from the container.


Maria raced away from Tessaline's guest room and down the hall.

Oh god! everything was so clear now! That laugh, it had been Tessaline at the stables during that midnight rendezvous. She had wanted to destroy some girl's life, and it had been Liz's! she had just confirmed it herself, and all because she had this obsession to wed Prince Maxwell. God, couldn't that girl just get a clue into that thick head of hers?

On her way, she bumped into several other servants and quickly told them of her discovery. They all agreed that they had to tell the Queen. Liz was in serious trouble. They should've come clean to the queen from the beginning, but now it might be too late to do anything about it. Nevertheless they still had to try or they'd never forgive themselves if they had a chance to save a life and they turned their backs on that chance.

"Woah, woah, Where are you all in a hurry to?"

"Lord Kyle!"

"Yes that's me, now will you kindly tell me what's going on? you all have this worried pale look on your faces, has something happened?"

Without further delay, Maria relayed the story.

After hearing the disturbing account, Kyle took on the role as leader. He split the servants into groups.

Alan and Jane was to go find the queen and tell her the news. Maria and the rest of the group were to head to the town square and keep and eye and ear on the developments.

"What will you do?"

"I'll go inform His Highness. Now go! hurry, times a wasting."

They all scattered away like mice.


Kyle went into the study and wrote a quick urgent notice. walking to the open window, he gave a long high pitched whistle. A minute later a hawk flew to the window.

"Hello old friend. You must fly to Portugal and find Prince Maxwell to give him this urgent message. The life of his fiancee will matter to him."

The hawk gave a sqwark then flew off.

~*~*~*~*~*~

In the town square, the crowds were already gathering and anticipating. The excited murmurs of the people spread through the throngs of people. Rumours had been rife and spread like wildfire, and within hours everyone in town were talking and speculating about the girl who had supposedly bewitched the royal prince. Some believed it might be true, while others believed it might be revenge or an act of maliciousness towards the girl who had come to play an important part in the prince's life.

Whatever their thoughts, they all awaited eagerly for the trial to start.



TBC! Ok, you guys along with the town's people will have until the next chapter to find out about Liz's trial. what will happen? Btw, if you like this story, why not go vote for it at the Roswellfanatics awards thread? it's nice to be nominated even if I don't win. show's you care about this fic.

OMG! Woo! I've finally finished writing up this chapter!! My god, its the longest chapter I've ever written for any of my stories!

Anyway, I hope you enjoy it and leave me lots of feedback for all my hard work lol.

Warning: This chapter will contain death and violence so be warned.



Part 37

The sky had turned a murky grey that held the promise of rain; the wind had picked up a considerable amount since the morning; the air rife with tension like before a thunderstorm raged its almighty power.

Still the townspeople gathered around together like a flock of sheep eagerly awaiting for what was to come. Their murmurings and whisperings echoed like the hum of bees in a hive.

At long last, the main attraction of their day appeared. Some gasped in horror and shock, some felt sympathy for what the young girl had endured and what was still to come, while others hissed at her and called her vile names and threw rotten items at her, as though satisfaction would come from hurting her from afar since they couldn't reach for her physically themselves to invoke harm.

Pushing their way to the front of the crowd, the servants to the royal family watched on at the horror that had befallen the gentle girl they had come to love. They wanted to rush to her aid, but who would listen to servants? there was nothing they could do for now. They all prayed that his highness would return soon, but in their hearts, they feared it might be too late to stop any of this.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Lord Kyle read the note his hawk had brought back. Max would be on his way back as soon as possible. Folding the strip of rectangle shaped note, Kyle went in search of Alan, Jane and the Queen. To his distress, Alan and Jane had been unable to locate Her Majesty. It was only after accidentally bumping into the Queen's lady in waiting when they were informed the Queen had left for a picnic over an hour ago at Tessaline's invite. Though, the location of the place hadn't been given as it was a surprise location for the Queen. But for security, the Queen had taken some of her guards with her, and said they would be back later on in the day.

'Damn' Kyle thought. Now what was he suppose to do? He didn't know Liz that well, but Max seemed besotted with her. Kyle himself wasn't a citizen of Verdonia, but he did have a high station, maybe he could use some of that power to influence the situation.

Making up his mind, he climbed on his horse and rode as fast as he could heading for the town square. He was running out of time, though he feared he might already be too late to so any good.

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

Please, please forgive me,
but I won't be home again.
maybe someday you'll have woke up,
and, barely conscious, you'll say to no one:
isn't something missing?

You won't cry for my absence, I know -
you forgot me long ago.
am I that unimportant...?
am I so insignificant...?
isn't something missing?
isn't someone missing me?

[chorus]
Even though I'd be sacrificed,
you won't try for me, not now.
though I'd die to know you love me,
I'm all alone.
isn't someone missing me?

Please, please forgive me,
but I won't be home again.
I know what you do to yourself,
shudder deep and cry out:
isn't something missing?
isn't someone missing me?

[chorus]


And if I bleed, I'll bleed,
knowing you don't care.
and if I sleep just to dream of you
and wake without you there,
isn't something missing?
isn't something...

[chorus]

"Missing" by Evanescence


The iron shackles bit into her wrist and ankles; her knees were sore from kneeling on the hard surface; her hair was a dirty and tangled mess. The dirty brown shirt she wore was ripped and did little to keep the cold from seeping into her bones. Her body ached from cold and torture she had endured for hours 'till her trial. A sense of fear engulfed her, but at the same time, a resigned calmness entered her. The fear was for her unborn child, a child that deserved life so much, yet might not get that chance. Her resignation - which she refused to admit as weakness or defeat - came from the realization that no matter how she had tried to better a life for herself, she was cursed to live in unhappiness. Perhaps this was her time. Her time to end the suffering she had lived since the day she was born. Maybe this was her true destiny, no matter how unpleasant it will be.

The rickety cart that carried her along to her doom hit a pot hole which inadvertently slammed her neck against the hard metal bars that held her head in place for all to see.

Her shame.

Her humiliation.

Her pain.

Liz looked at the town people through the gaps of her stringy hair. They were all lined up on either side of the street watching the carriage slowly pull along.

Who are these people? what right have they to judge her? to condemn her. What has she ever done to them?

Her thoughts were interrupted when she felt something smack into the side of her head; then something else hit her. Liz realized she was being pelted with rotten fruit and vegetables and a few even had the audacity to throw raw eggs. Liz squeezed her eyes shut from the sharp pain and tried to block out their hissing calls and boos. When Liz opened her eyes, she caught sight of the royal servants. They stood there their faces filled with shock, pain and sympathy, but they did nothing to stop her distress.

They won't be helping her.

Her mind drifted to Max. Pain cut into her heart. She had come to trust and fall in love with him, but eventually he, like all the others had betrayed and abandoned her. Tears burned in her eyes. But no matter how much it pained her knowing that he'd had a change of heart about her, that he no longer loved her, inside her broken and battered heart, she still loved him. Will always love him. She only hoped that one day, he will realize the lies he had believed that had lead to both her and their baby's death. Hope he realized she would never do anything to hurt or harm him. She briefly wondered if deep inside him somewhere, would he even miss her when she was gone? even just a little? will he even remember her? or would he prefer to forget?

Alone in an unfamiliar world she had escaped too, Liz realized she hadn't really escaped, not really in the sense. She had run to escape her punishing life, but no matter the location, her will always follow, for it is within her life; her soul. There was no escaping destiny.

The cart stopped and she was dragged to the center of the town square. Liz knew it would be here she would perish. She briefly wondered if by dying will she escape destiny? would she go to a better happier place? or would she continue her painful life for all eternity within death.

Liz broke out of her thoughts when she felt a hard shove of a hand on her shoulder that forced her knees to buckle to the ground. She winced but did not cry out. She wouldn't give these people the satisfaction to see her suffer. She was strong enough to have endured pain and suffering all the life, it would be pointless to give up now. She will not go away from this living world without a fight.

The people of Verdonia fell silent as the trial began.

"Elizabeth Parker, you have been charged with meddling in the unholy practice of witchcraft and bewitching His Royal Highness Prince Maxwell Evans to only have eyes for you and no other; not even his betrothed Lady Tessaline Harding. You used your bewitchment to enchant him to do your biddings; to fall in love with you so you may rise to the crown. These are serious charges and I urge you to tell the truth and admit your evil ways so god may still have mercy on your soul. How do you plead?"

Liz looked up at the tall skinny man whose nose was long and crooked, his old weathered face, sharp eyes and white hair gave him a sinister appearance. Ironic that he held a bible in his hands.

Lies, all Lies! if god were to have mercy on souls of evil doings, then it should be on all the people present here. They were all part of her execution. It was their souls that were damned. What human would want to watch another human suffer? The only innocent soul in this (aside from her) was the baby she carried within her.

Holding her head high, she looked the man straight in the eye as she spoke. "I plead not guilty. These charges are lies. They are fabrications of someone's vindictive mind who feels I am a threat to them, yet I have shown then no harm or ill will." Liz took a breath. Her fate was sealed no matter what she said. Might as well reveal all. "That someone who condemned me with those charges is no other than Tessaline Harding, who has envied my friendship with His Highness, and who has shown me nothing but kindness and generosity when I was ill."

"Is it not true that His Highness broke off his engagement to Lady Harding in favour for you?"

Liz knew she was trapped. "Yes, 'tis true."

"And it is all because of your bewitchment."

"No."

"It has been brought to my attention that you now carry a babe within you. Do you deny that?"

"No."

"And this babe was a result of your liaison with his Highness. Yes?"

Liz knew she was in deep trouble, no matter what she said. If only there was a way to protect her baby.

"The baby is an innocent in all of this."

"So you admit you carry His Highness's babe."

"Yes."

The priest smiled smugly. He turned to address the town people.

"Which is my point. Elizabeth Parker has used the Prince's trust and kindness in return for her own greed and power. And in securing that plan, she bewitched Prince Maxwell into falling in love with her and thus giving her a babe, her," he looked at her as if she was horse manure "devil's child."

The crowd gasped in shock and horror at the declaration.

"No! It's not true!! I love Prince Maxwell, I would never do anything to hurt him."

The priest went on ignoring her.

"Good people of Verdonia, I have proof that Elizabeth Parker is a witch!"

More gasps and murmurs echoed through the crowd. What a day it was turning out to be!

"No!" How can he have proof of something that wasn't true? But then, he'd probably just lie anyway.

Liz felt two strong arms pull her up; then heard the tearing of fabric. She realized one of the guards had teared the front of her top. Now her birthmark as bared for all to see.

"Look! she bears the mark of the damned!"

Murmurs of fear and speculation rang out among the people. Some cried "Witch!" while others cried "Whore!" Some just stood frozen in shock. Like the royal servants who stood in the midst of the nightmare.

"No! it... it's just a birthmark."

"No one has a birthmark that big. It's the mark of a witch!"

"Witch witch you're a witch!" The people chanted.

"And as for your babe...." he leered at her spitting the words out. "Devil's spawn!"

"No! my child is innocent! What black heart you have within you to condemn innocent lives without solid proof."

"I have shown people the truth."

"The so-called truth you proclaim have shown nothing but your own theories, 'tis not truth or facts. Anyone can easily come up with theories." Liz saw a dark-ish mark on the priest's neck and decided to aggravate him a little. "You think you are a man of god?"

"Yes. Sent to rid the world of the evil such as yourself." He stood back and looked at her all high and mighty.

"But what about that mark similar to mine that's on your neck? You say I am evil, but if you bear the mark similar to mine, that must mean you also must be evil. Except you hide it behind the mask of god's servant."

The priest drew back in horror at her words.

The people around them gasped and took a step back away from him. What to believe? was the holy man in truth not so holy as he appeared to be?

The priest placed a hand over his neck, and glared venomously at her.

"'Tis a normal birthmark, unlike yours"

"You work for god you say?"

"Yes."

"And is it gods will or yours to condemn an innocent life that has yet to even appear in this world?"

From the corner of her eye, Liz noticed the people's hesitancy for her words made sense. Some started to doubt their own faith, but most were unsure as to where the priests loyalty lay.

"You are the devil's deciple and the child that resides within you."

"It still doesn't make him or her evil. Each life is an individual. Different, unique"

"Do not try to save your devil spawn with words for it shall do you no good. Your fait is sealed."

"Two lives for the price of one. Maybe it is you who should burn in hell for the sins you are about to commit."

"SILENCE!" The priest backhanded her so hard, her head snapped to one side from the force. Liz could taste blood in her mouth and out of hatred, spat it back in the priests face.

He wiped his face with his hand and glowered at her. "You will burn for your sins child. May god forgive you and cleanse your soul."

"The blood will be on your hands. Tell me, will god be as forgiving to you when you meet him?"

Her answer came as another hard slap to her face.

"Prepare the logs! on this day, This. Witch. Shall. Burn!!" he punctuated each word and emphasized by pointing a finger straight at Liz.

Maria was horrified. No! If she didn't do something, then Liz will die. She didn't know what would work, but she had to defend her friend. She bursted through the crowd before her friends could stop her.

"No! she is innocent! How can you people stand here and watch an innocent die?! What if it was one of your loved ones or someone you hold dear being accused? What would you do? would you believe it and gawk at them for your own amusement like you are now, or would you plead until your heart bled for someone to see the truth within the lies being spun? Miss Elizabeth is an innocent in all of this. All she ever did was love one man with all her heart, and in return a dark jealousy from Lady Harding is going to cut their love short. I know Lady Harding is the evil one behind this plan. I heard it with my own ears!"

"Who are you?! How dare you speak such blasphemy!" The priest bellowed

"My name is Maria DeLuca. I am a servant girl to the royal family. I speak the truth and not blasphemy; I have no reason to lie." Maria turned and looked at Liz. "Miss Elizabeth is one of the kindest people I know. She wouldn't hurt a fly."

The priest sneered at her. "You say you serve the royal family and thus where Elizabeth Parker resided, is that correct?"

"Yes, that's correct."

"Then who's to say Miss Parker has not bewitched you also?"

Damn. Maria was trapped.

"You are throwing accusations without fact or proof."

"I am merely pointing out the possibilities that have resulted in the break-up of a blessed betrothal."

"Maria saw red. This man was no man of god. No. He was nothing but a manipulator!

"Your so-called possibilities are false."

"But all the reasons I have given up to this point have been in corroboration with the possibilities, which in light appear to be true." He turned to address the crowd. "I am a man of god, make no mistake of that. I have been here for a great many years. For all those who have come to me in your time of need, have I been anything but honest and truthful? Have I not helped you through your time of need? have I not kept this place, your sanctuary safe from evil and imbued it with happiness? Who would you trust more, a holy man who you have seeked for a great many years, or a girl who you know nothing about, and the trouble she has brought among is place since her appearance. Do you not care what happens to your beloved Prince? Prince Maxwell will be king one day, a great leader to his people, but I would rather have him lead in light rather than dark. Am I the only one who can see the truth in this?" he shook is head sadly. "Has she even bewitched all of you people?"

The town broke into debatable murmur of the priests words.

The priest turned to Maria. "Deny your association with this evil and save your own soul girl. Break away from this bewitchment."

"You want me to turn my back on the one thing that is good and pure in all of this? I think not. You may be a priest, but it is you who are doing the devil's work of evil by destroying all that is good."

The priest simply shook his head sadly. "I see you are already too far gone. You cannot be allowed to stay and spread your evil thinking among us." He clicked his fingers and two guards took hold of Maria's arms on each side.

"What are you doing?!" Maria tried to struggle free.

The priest turned to the crowd. "Anyone else who defies god and who wish to spread evil, take heed. If you do not turn away from your evil ways, you too shall suffer the same consequence and burn!!"

Liz tried to reach for Maria as they dragged the blonde servant girl to where a wooden beam had been erected. The guards who held Liz pulled her back.

"No! Leave her alone! She didn't do anything!" Liz continued to struggle, but it was useless. Liz looked to the crowd and saw the other royal servants. The look in their eyes said it all. They wanted to help, but there was also the terrifying fear that if they did, then it would be at the expense of their own lives. There was nothing they could do. Liz looked at Maria who was now being binded by thick ropes around the pole. They started piling wood and branches around their sacrifice. Liz struggled harder then suddenly gasped at a painful blow to her stomach. She doubled over in pain. Felt something slick and wet trickle down her inner thighs. 'Oh no!' Suddenly her head was yanked back by her hair and she came face to face with one of her guards.

"Stop yer struggling wench, it would do yer no good, yer canna save her, nor yourself for that matter."

The first thing that penetrated through the hazy fog of pain was the mans accent. Strange, it sounded as if he was from up north somewhere. Perhaps from the highlands. Before she could contemplate on the thought, she heard a scream that could probably be heard for miles. She knew what was happening even without looking. A dark shadow loomed over her.

The wretched sadistic priest.

"Hold her still so she may watch what happens to evil doers. She, along with everyone else must witness what happens to evil, whether they be witches, enchanters or sorcerers. She must witness her fate."

Liz tried to look away, but her head was held firmly in place. She tried closing her eyes but received further beatings. So, with no choice and tears flowing down her cheeks, she watched her friend scream in agonizing pain as the flames licked and consumed her body. Soon, no cries came at all.

The crowd stood in silence. Some turned and vomited on the ground at the sight. But most were too shocked to move. What had happened to their once peaceful kingdom? how had it come to this?

Liz felt herself fall sideways and onto the cold ground. She lay there, her eyes open, a continued vision of seeing her friend now turned to a charred blackened body. And all because Maria had stood up and defended her. The pain in her stomach hadn't receded, if anything, it had gotten worse as had the slick feeling between her thighs. She wanted to vomit. Holding it down, she placed a hand over her stomach. "I'm so sorry my little one." She whispered

Darkness swam in her vision and Liz knew she would pass out soon. Maybe it was better this way, at least she wasn't going to feel a thing when they set her to burn. With that last thought, she surrendered her mind to the peace giving oblivion.

TBC!

Hi! *Waves* I'm back again! Hugz to everyone and a bag of cookies each!


Ok, here's the next part, sorry its late, I had to register for my new term at uni and life got a bit hectic. Anyway, this chapter continues from the last one.


Thank you everyone who left me feedback!!

yeah, shocking isn't it? how had things gotten sooo bad for our beloved characters? bet you had no idea I was gonna start killling off some characters huh? I know kinda dramtic, but hey, it goes with the storyline.



Part 38

Horse hooves pounded on the gravel road, a race against time and fate.

For hours he had travelled, never once stopping to rest. There was only one focus. One destination to get to. And that was to Liz.

After receiving word from Kyle (via the note from his hawk) on the dire situation, nothing else mattered. He dropped all business and headed out. What the hell had happened since he had left? How could he have left his beloved fiancee unprotected?

He pushed Aldorian to run faster; the wind whipping past them.

"Please God, please keep Liz safe. Please don't let it be too late." Max prayed.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Kyle entered the towns square and saw the masses of people gathered around. When they heard his approach they all fell silent.

Climbing down from his horse, he looked around and tried not to vomit at the smell of burnt flesh. (Though he had no idea that it was just that.)

"What is going on here?!" He commanded.

The royal servants ran out to him.

"It's too late! You're too late! Maria.....they....." No words were needed when they pointed to the blackened body the orange flames still greedily consumed.

Kyle felt his stomach roll. So that was what the revolting smell came from. He feared his next question.

"And Liz?"

They directed their gaze to the body lying on the ground.

"Shit!" Kyle quickly ran over to Liz. He lifted her head to lie on his lap. he smoothed her dirty knotted hair away from her face. "Oh hell." He cursed when he saw the state she was in. "Liz, Liz can you hear me?"

No response.

"WHO DID THIS?!!!" He bellowed in fury.

The town people all looked at each other uneasily and shuffled from foot to foot. They were all to blame. They had encouraged it. They hadn't stopped the slaughter that had ensued; even those who had had some doubts in their minds about the decision of the matter.

The priest bravely stepped forward. His arrogant head held high.

"The little wench was charged with witchcraft and using magic to bewitch His Royal Highness prince Maxwell. Her accomplice was appropriately dealt with." He turned a glance at the burning flames then looked back at Kyle. "As will she." He looked disgustedly at Liz.

Kyle glanced at the priest, his tone ice cold. "It would serve you well to keep your mouth shut." Looking around, Kyle pinned everyone with a death glare. his voice dangerous. "Who else was a direct part of this? And don't even try hiding the truth, for if you are found out, no leniency shall not come."

The guards looked at each other, and heads handing down in fear, stepped forward.

Kyle signalled the royal guards he had brought along.

"Seize them. Place them in the royal dungeon until further orders from Prince Maxwell."

"WHAT! THIS IS PREPOSTEROUS!! I AM A MAN OF GOD!! UNHAND ME!!" The priest protested, but went unheard as he was dragged away by soldiers along with the guards. They passed a man who stood there stiffly, his expression ice cold. The priest saw his opportunity.

"Your Highness! thank god you're here! Tell these--"

Max raised a hand to silence him. He had heard and seen enough. He looked at one of the royal soldiers.

"Lock him up and throw away the key." He looked at he wide-eyed priest. "You say you are a man of god, well perhaps god wants a long talk with you. You now have a lifetime to listen to god's will. You can ponder on the actions you have wrought today and ask yourself is it really gods will or yours."

"But Your Highness!--"

"Get him out of my sight."

The priest's cry of protests could be heard behind Max as he walked towards Kyle.

"Max." Kyle greeted as Max crouched down.

Max looked at the burning mass in front of him - Maria - A servant maid who served her peers with a cheery disposition. An innocent caught in the crossfire. He cradled Liz and looked down at her. Her eyes closed she looked as if she was sleeping.

"Oh god! Liz, what have they done to you?" Eyes burning with tears, he let them fall down his cheeks as he checked for a pulse. He choked a relieved sob as he found a very weak pulse. She was still alive. He had to get her to a doctor. Placing a hand on her back and the other under her knees, he was about to lift her up when something wet and sticky slicked his hand. Taking his hand away, he saw it was covered with crimson red blood.

Kyle's eyes went wide.

"Jesus Max...."

Too numb with grief, Max returned to the task of lifting Liz up. Max spared a glance at Kyle.

"Could you take care of Maria's burial? I want her to have a proper one. Inform her family."

"Of course Max."

locating a horse drawn wagon, Max placed Liz gently to lie upon it. He looked down at her battered yet serene face. "It's all right Liz, I'm here now. Everything will be all right now. I love you Liz." He placed a gently loving kiss on her forehead then got on the horse to pull them away.

The town remained silent as they watched the Prince and his love disappearing into the distance.



TBC! Awww, tissues anyone? feedback please! and voting for an award will also be appreciated ; lol, just kidding. see you all next time!