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Post by nat365 on Mar 10, 2005 15:15:47 GMT -5
Just read this story. It's really brill! You've got a lot of talent as a writer.
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Post by leigh19 on Mar 12, 2005 18:47:12 GMT -5
A/N Okay- this may get a bit confusing. Each of these sections is happening simultaneously to the others…and simultaneous to the Chris/Mel/Jenny scene in the last chapter. I hope it makes sense….
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“It’ll be okay.” Wyatt said gently as he helped his Aunt get shakily back to her feet. Luckily, he had managed to heal Paige before the poison from the arrow could do too much harm.
“Thanks Wyatt.” The woman replied, giving her oldest nephew a grateful smile.
For a second, the two almost forgot about the chaos which was going on around them but a low growl from an approaching figure quickly snapped them back to reality.
Cole was heading their way. His red eyes lusting for blood, his crossbow raised and ready to kill.
The part whitelighters froze in fear at the sight of the crazed demon, despite the fact that both knew that death was imminent if they did not fight back.
They needed to ignore their desires for peace and do what ever they could to stop Cole…<br> They needed to fight…<br> “You may have saved her once,” Cole said with a slight smirk as he glanced over at Wyatt. “But this time she won’t be so lucky…” And with that, he fired an arrow directly at Paige.
Thankfully, Wyatt managed to react in time and he quickly orbed it into a nearby wall before it could harm his Aunt.
Cole roared in frustration and glared at them both, more determined then ever to see them dead. “You can’t stop me.” He said, his voice full of determination. “I have waited for your death for so long Paige…and now I’m so close…”
He fired another deadly arrow and this time Paige redirected it. Irritated, Cole powered up a large fire ball in his free hand and threw it at the Charmed one who then managed to duck and let it harmlessly hit the back of the attic.
Cole’s red eyes flashed at Paige. It may have seemed that they had long since buried the old issues between them, but tonight, they had all come flooding back. She had never trusted him…she had always thought that she was better then him, just because she was a whitelighter and he was a demon…<br> He wanted her dead…he wanted to see her writhing in pain as poison spread through her body…<br> Nothing would give him more pleasure than that.
He turned to attempt another attack but before he could he saw a streak of blue fly through the air and hit him directly in the stomach. He was blown back into the wall and when his head cleared he realized that Wyatt had managed to hit him with an energy ball.
“Er, sorry.” Wyatt muttered as he looked down at his hands.
The boy felt torn between going over to heal his uncle and attacking him again. This night had caused so much confusion…he didn’t know what to think anymore…he didn’t know who he was…what he should do…<br> Cole steadied himself, and prepared to attack…<br> Wyatt knew he had no choice…<br> Feeling horribly ill about what he was about to do, the boy flung his hand out in front of him and sent Cole flying into the attic wall with enormous force. He could hear the man cry out in pain as his body fell limply to the floor.
He wasn’t dead…he was just very close.
Wyatt was instantly over come with regret as he stared down at his uncle. He wished it hadn’t come to this…he wished he hadn’t had to cause any harm…<br> But, he knew that there had been no alternative.
Before Wyatt could dwell on his actions any longer, he felt a sharp pain in his shoulder.
He heard Paige cry out beside him as he sunk to his knees…<br> What ever it was already hurt so much.
The world was already beginning to fade away…
“Dad.” He gasped weakly before crumpling onto the hard wooden floor.
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Phoebe couldn’t stop herself from hesitating.
She didn’t know why…but she found herself unable to leap into battle. She watched Mel shimmer across the room to Chris, she watched Cole set his sights on Wyatt and the fallen Paige, she saw Demetrius bolt over to Piper and Leo…<br> But she couldn’t do it. She couldn’t fight, even though she wanted them all dead…<br> She had spent the entire night convincing herself that life would be better- freer- if they could just rid the family of the whitelighter blood that had seeped in through the years. Leo, Paige, Chris, Wyatt…they all needed to be eliminated.
She wanted them all dead…didn’t she?
Phoebe glanced down at the cross bow that suddenly felt very heavy in her hands. She could do so much damage with this weapon- she could kill them all with only a few deadly arrows. They were weak, and they had done nothing but take Piper away from her. She had always loved her sister deeply- they had been through so much together- Piper was the only one that had been there through it all…<br> Piper should be with her and Mel and Cole…she wasn’t an angel…she wasn’t diluted by stupid ideas about right and ‘wrong’… Piper had been influenced by whitelighters for far too long…<br> That would end tonight…IF she could muster up the courage to do what had to be done.
Another figure suddenly caught her eye across the room, breaking her away from her thoughts. She could feel the confusion welling inside of her…there was a woman in the attic she didn’t recognise…<br> The two locked eyes and Phoebe soon found herself walking towards the mysterious woman…her brown eyes narrowed suspiciously.
“Who are you?” she demanded, as she raised her weapon threateningly. “What the hell are you doing in my house?”<br> The woman continued to stare for several seconds before she managed a response. “You’re Phoebe, aren’t you? Their sister. The one that turned…”
Phoebe smirked. “Evil?” she asked, her eyes still set hungrily on the woman. “Yes…that’s me. Evil little Phoebe with her demonic family.”<br> She paused before adding. “Now you answer my question…who the hell are you?”<br> “Emily.” The woman replied, her voice surprisingly calm for someone with a cross bow aimed at her chest. “Your sisters needed my help to put an end to this chaos.”<br> Phoebe felt a wave of anger wash through her. “I didn’t take them long to replace me, did it?” she spat, using the side of her weapon to knock the woman into the couch.
“No,” Emily replied, attempting to ignore the pain in her side as she straightened herself back up. “I’m not replacing you…they love you…they want to save you…”
“What do you know?” the charmed one shrieked in response, growing angrier with every word the woman spoke. She raised her weapon again to deliver another blow, but this time she found herself knocked to the floor by an icy wave which rippled through the air around her.
She glared at the woman, who she could now conclude form this strange display of power was most certainly a witch.
“Thermokenisis.” Emily said with a slight smirk. “I manipulate temperature in the atmosphere.”<br> Phoebe took several seconds to recover from the paralyzing cool which had knocked her down. Her whole body felt as if it would never be warm again and he head felt painfully compressed by the rush of cold air.
“B*tch.” Phoebe hissed, glaring at the other witch.
Emily gave a slight smirk in spite of her self. “I don’t think I’m the one that word applies to right now.” She said, looking down at Phoebe. “I’m not the one trying to kill my family.”<br> Phoebe forced herself back to her feet, overcome with rage for this insolent woman. Who did she think she was…waltzing into her house…acting all righteous. Emily didn’t understand what she was going through, it wasn’t her place to decide what was right and wrong.
“I’m saving my family.” Phoebe replied, her voice low and dangerous. “I’m freeing them. I’m bringing Piper back where she belongs. The whitelighters are the ones that have broken us apart. They are the ones who need to pay…”
Phoebe was rather surprised to see anger cloud the woman’s face as she spoke- why would she care about the fate of a whitelighter and a few cross breeds? Before she could contemplate the matter further, she felt her self being flung back again by another icy wave.
She managed to recover much quicker this time and she quickly raised her bow at the woman.
But the woman wasn’t looking at her any more…her attention was focused on something across the room, and as Phoebe saw what it was she felt a wave of fear run through her.
Piper…<br> Piper was on the floor, and Demetrius was aiming his weapon directly at her.
He had broken the deal. He was going to hurt her sister.
Phoebe felt something snap inside of her…it was as if a curtain which had been obscuring her thoughts had been suddenly lifted.
Piper was in trouble- she needed to be saved- that was all that mattered…<br> Crying out in rage, Phoebe bolted across the room to make the demon pay for what he was about to do…
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Post by leigh19 on Mar 12, 2005 18:49:50 GMT -5
XXXXXXX (Picks up where Piper’s POV ended in the previous chapter)XXXXXXX
As Phoebe had stood hesitantly watching the events unfold, Piper threw herself at the demon whose crossbow was now aimed directly at her husband.
She had forced her self to get back up…to carry on with the fight. Even though she still felt pain from the demons rough shove, all thoughts of her own well being left her as she saw him threaten the man she loved.
Saving Leo from the deadly poison was all that mattered now.
“Don’t you dare!” the enraged woman shrieked as she used her power to blow the weapon out of the demon’s clawed hands.
He growled angrily and set his yellowed eyes on Piper. “Step aside, witch.” He hissed his voice low and gravely. “It’s the angel I want- not you.”
“Yeah, well that angel is my husband, and there is no way in hell I’m going to let you hurt him.” She delivered a swift kick into his gut, and the demon took a few staggered steps back from the impact before falling face first onto the floor.
“Grab the potions, Leo!” Piper shouted, glancing back at her husband as the demon began to pull him self off of the floor.
She saw the hesitation on the man’s face and let out a groan of frustration. “d**n it Leo if there was ever a time NOT to be a pacifist this is it!”<br> Hearing the desperation in his wife’s voice, Leo snapped out of the frozen state he had been in, and grabbed a small bottle of the potion they had prepared off a near by table. He flung it forcefully at the brutish demon who had just managed to climb back to his feet. The potion bottle exploded upon impact, spraying the yellowish brew across the demons front and causing him to hiss in pain as it burned his flesh.
Piper took a few steps back- wanting to avoid being caught in a possible explosion- and Leo turned away; unable to watch what he hoped was coming next. They waited for several seconds in anticipation, both hoping that this demons death would help put this terrible night behind them…<br> But, nothing happened.
The demon slowly looked back up at them, his eyes burning with even more rage then before. The potion had done nothing but give him a few scars…he was still very much alive…and very much annoyed.
With a wave of his hand he summoned the discarded cross bow back into his hands before Piper had a chance to react. Feeling herself fill once again with a sickening fear, the woman jumped in front of her husband, hoping that her body would protect him from the demons wrath. She couldn’t stand the though of loosing him…she wouldn’t allow it… “Nice try, witch.” The demon laughed coolly as he once again raised his bow. “But I’m afraid that meagre potion won’t stop me…I’m far too powerful. Now, step aside and let me get what I came for…”
Piper did not know how she managed to remain standing- she felt overwhelmed with fear and her body shook in anger- but, somehow, she stood her ground.
“No.” she replied, her voice sounding more forceful then she felt. “Never.”<br> To her surprise, the demon merely smirked. “Very well.” He said, as his beady eyes slowly surveyed the room, lighting up with malice once more as he caught sight of something a few meters away. “I suppose I can just kill another little angel first…if that’s what you want.”<br> Piper followed the demons gaze, and her heart almost stopped beating as she realized where he redirected his attention.
He was looking straight at Wyatt who was across the room helping Paige hold off an attack from Cole…<br> “NO!” Piper cried as the demon whipped his body around and fired the arrow. Both Piper and Leo threw themselves into his side, knocking him to the floor once again and Piper blasted the cross bow away…<br> But as she looked up she knew that it was already too late…<br> She saw the arrow lodge itself in Wyatt’s shoulder, and tears filled her eyes as the boy…her little angel…fell to his knees with a cry of pain.
“Wyatt!” The two distraught parents cried in unison as they watched their oldest son in horror. Leo bolted across the room to the boy’s aside and Piper was about to do the same when she felt a firm hand grip her ankle. The demon had latched onto her and his ugly face contorted into a smile as he pulled the witch painfully to the floor.
She hit the hard wood with a loud thud and winced at the sudden pain in her leg. She could see that the demon had reached out for his weapon once again...she knew that she couldn’t stop him…she had tried everything she could…but he was too strong. She could never defeat him alone.
He grabbed his bow and quickly stood back up, placing a rough foot on her stomach to prevent her from getting away.
“I’ve had enough games, witch.” He hissed, lowering the bow and aiming it directly at her heart. “The poison may not harm you.” He continued, with another twisted grin, “But the arrow is still going to hurt a hell of a lot.”<br> Piper struggled beneath his hold, knowing it was pointless. She was trapped- she was going to die. She could only hope that somehow the rest of her family would be okay…Leo, Chris, Wyatt…Paige, Mel, Phoebe and Cole…she wanted them all to come away from this unhurt, despite what they had done. She loved them- all of them- no matter what.
“Time to die.” The demon roared, placing his finger on the trigger. She closed her eyes, waiting for the pain to hit…but instead she heard a yell of rage and felt the demons foot release her from its hold.
Confused, she sat up and looked frantically around the attic.
The demon had been thrown against the wall and was being pounded furiously by an enraged woman…<br> As Pipers vision came fully in to focus, her heart was once again filled with hope.
She had been saved.
By Phoebe…<br> XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX A/N I shall post the rest of the battle soon. Thanks so much to Charmedforce, Nat, and Staceface for the wonderful reviews! I really appreciate it:)
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Post by nat365 on Mar 12, 2005 19:55:44 GMT -5
That was brill. I loved how you called Wyatt Piper's 'little angel'. So cute! One thing though, simply a typing error. You called Wyatt her youngest, when he's her oldest. Sorry to be picky, but I know that I prefer it when errors like that in my stories are picked out. It just makes it a smoother read, rather than being jolted out of the alternate world a story puts you in, by thinking 'Hey, that's not right!' Tell me if you'd rather I didn't though, or if you'd rather I pm'd any corrections to you, and I will.
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Post by leigh19 on Mar 12, 2005 22:31:23 GMT -5
Thanks for pointing that out Nat!(I suppose I just think about Chris too much, lol.) I hate errors like that too- it really does take away from the story. I totally don't mind you telling me- If you ever find more I really do want to know!!! I shall fix it right now!! Glad you liked it anyway -Leigh
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Post by nat365 on Mar 13, 2005 8:29:51 GMT -5
Good oh. I hate it when I upset people without meaning to, so I'm glad you don't mind. Also proves I've been reading closely, lol! Right, am off for a drive with my father now. Arg! But I really need the practice if I'm going to pass my test in April.
Keep updating. Hmm, I should probably update mine today. Ah well, do it later.
Like I've said before, great story. Keep it up.
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Post by leigh19 on Mar 13, 2005 17:07:47 GMT -5
(Updated March 13)
Paige gave a sigh of relief as she watched Leo rush to heal his fallen son. This night was really taking a toll on her nerves and she didn’t know how much more she could stand.
She wanted it to end…quickly.
Glancing over at the still unconscious Cole, her mouth formed a slight frown. She knew that the man would snap again one day….she could remember all of those times he had tried to get rid of her when they first met…he had even altered reality to ensure that she wouldn’t interfere with his relationship with Phoebe. Paige had been happy to see him vanquished and unbelievably angry when he had managed to return yet again. Evidently, they hadn’t really killed him in the first place- she had just thought that they had.
He had come waltzing back into their lives and despite her suspicions Phoebe was convinced that he had changed for good this time…AND that he was the rightful father of the daughter she had foreseen. Paige had trusted him too eventually…<br> But tonight he had shown his true nature once again and she knew that it had been a mistake to ever let him come back…<br> “Thanks dad.” She heard Wyatt muttered as Leo helped him off the floor.
Paige smiled slightly. At least something had worked out that night.
She didn’t know what she would do if one of her nephews had been seriously hurt…<br> It was something that she would rather not ponder.
“We need a plan.” she said matter of factly, turning to face Leo and Wyatt. “We need to vanquish that demon’s sorry ass.”<br> The both nodded in agreement, but neither seemed to have any useful suggestions. Not that she could really blame the- Wyatt was still pale and weak form the poison and Leo was recovering from the shock of his sons near death experience.
“What about the potions?” another voice cut in.
Emily quickly ran over to them, her eyes wide with alarm. “Phoebe’s holding the demon off for now, but she can’t last forever.”<br> Paige was slightly confused by the remark…hadn’t Phoebe been working with the demon? But she managed to nod in agreement. “Good idea.”<br> “We tried one.” Leo stated sadly. “It didn’t do too much.”<br> “Well, then we’ll just use them to weaken him.” Paige replied, glancing over at her brother in law. “And we’ll follow it up with a spell…I think I have the perfect one…”
“I can hold him off with my power to buy some time.” Emily added helpfully, wanting to do anything she could to end the fight.
Paige smile. “Perfect. Leo- go get the crystals to trap Cole in case he wakes up. I’m going to go to Piper, I’ll need her help if this is going to work.”<br> And with that, the witch-whitelighter took off in her oldest sister’s direction, hoping desperately that their attack would be a success…<br> XXXXXXXXXXXXX
“You broke the deal!” Phoebe shouted as she delivered yet another kick directly into the demon’s gut. Her fighting skills had only gotten better over the years, and the demon was already doubled over in pain and bleeding in several places.
“You said you wouldn’t hurt her!” she yelled, kicking again. “She wasn’t one of the targets!”<br> She felt nothing but rage pulsing through her as she attacked the pitiful creature. Things were so clear now- clearer then they had been all night. Seeing Piper trapped by the demon had brought her back to reality and she suddenly knew that family- her entire family- was all that mattered.
She didn’t want any of them hurt- she never really had.
Her love for her sister had brought her back, and reminded her of the love she held for not only Piper, but everyone else. She only hoped that one day, they could forgive her for all that she had done…believe that she truly was on their side….
…the side of good.
Killing this demon was certainly a good way to prove where her loyalties lie.
She punched him right between the eyes and smiled slightly at the sound of his skull beginning to crack. She noticed the small spray of blood that now covered her front, but she didn’t care…she wanted him dead…he had tried to kill Piper…<br> With another yell, she kicked him again and watched in satisfaction as he finally sunk down to the floor, his eyes clouded over in pain.
She quickly turned around, and was relived to see Piper standing a few feet behind her.
“You’re okay.” The middle Charmed one said quietly as they locked identical sets of brown eyes. “Piper, I’m so sorry…”
But before she could finish her apology, the saw fear cross Piper’s face. “Phoebe look out!” she shouted, clearly alarmed by something behind her. Without hesitation, Phoebe dove to the side, scarcely avoiding a fire ball the slowly recovering Demetrius had flung at her during her distraction.
The fireball hit the wall and fizzled out harmlessly.
“You can’t kill him like that Phoebe.” She heard Piper whisper as she ran over to help her back to her feet. “We’ve tried…he’s too strong.”<br> The demon gave a cool laugh, and began advancing on the two sisters. “That’s right witch, I am to strong.” He paused and summoned up another fireball “All deals are off now-I’m going to kill you both. I’ll have the heads of all three charmed ones to prove my power.”<br> He fired the weapon directly at them, but with a flick of her wrists Piper managed to freeze it before it could hit its targets. The two stared at the static flame for a second; unsure of what to do- they needed to redirect it somehow…they needed…<br>
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Post by leigh19 on Mar 13, 2005 17:09:25 GMT -5
“Fireball!” A voice behind them called.
Paige came running in their direction and she swiftly sent the demons attack straight back at him before the freeze could wear off.
“Good timing.” Phoebe noted, giving her little sister a brief smile.
Paige didn’t smile back and remained focused on the attack. She redirected two more fireballs into the wall and orbed three bottles of the potion they had made into her hand.
“Here.” She said quickly passing them to her sisters. “We have a plan.”<br> “We…?” Piper began to question what Paige meant, but her query was soon answered.
She saw Emily pop out from behind the attics couch and make a wild gesture with her hands. Demetrius was suddenly engulfed in a ripple of sweltering heat and he shouted in pain as his skin began to blister and burn.
“Throw the potions.” Paige instructed, and her sisters quickly did as they were told.
The demon cried out again and fell to his knees…he was growing weaker by the second…<br> Piper almost had to cover hear ears as he suddenly let out a spine tingling scream which echoed though the small attic.
“Repeat after me!” she heard Paige shout, despite the annoying ringing in her ears. “Vanquish, we the witches cry. One final shock and then you die.”<br> Piper grabbed onto her little sisters hand and recited the spell again. “Vanquish, we the witches cry. One final shock and then you die.”<br> Demetrius screamed again, and his body slowly began to glow a murky red.
“Vanquish, we the witches cry. One final shock and then you die.” Phoebe joined in the chant and Piper reached for her hand as well.
They were together and strong once again.
The power of three was united…<br> “Vanquish, we the witches cry. One final shock and then you die.”<br> Piper heard more voices join in the spell as they repeated it a fourth time. She could see Chris, Jenny and Mel running up behind them…she could hear Wyatt and Emily across the room chanting too…<br> “Vanquish, we the witches cry. One final shock and then you die.”<br> The eight voices chorused through the room and the red glow grew stronger by the second. Their voices were full of determination…their minds were focused on their task…<br> As Piper recited the spell one final time, she was suddenly overwhelmed with an immense joy. Her family was together again…her sisters were together again…everything was going to be alright.
“Vanquish, we the witches cry. One final shock and then you die!”<br> Demetrius’ mangled body burst into a bright flames and he gave a final scream of anguish. Red light illuminated the room, temporarily blinding all of its inhabitants, before abruptly fading away.
A blissful silence filled the attic, and as Piper’s vision cleared, she could see that a large scorch mark was all that remained of the demon. She could not help but smile widely as she looked down at it.
This horrible night was finally over…<br> The demon was gone…<br> The family was together…<br> Things could go back to normal.
Feeling extremely relieved, Piper turned around to see Chris standing directly in front of her and she swiftly enveloped him in a tight hug. But she realized only a second later that something wasn’t right.
Her smile slowly faded and her eyes widened as she took a step back and looked directly at her son.
“Mom?” he asked, his green eyes full of worry as he too realized the problem. “Why do I still have wings?”<br> Maybe it wasn’t over after all…<br> XXXXXXXXXXXXX
A/N Muahaha. So, did you like it? I’m rather fond of the second part actually. Sorry that it’s a bit short, that seemed like the natural ending to the chapter. If it wasn’t clear, ‘the scream’ Chris Mel and Jenny heard was the demon’s scream, and them running up to help with the vanquish is what they did directly after the events in chapter 11 (sorry, confusing again). And no, I couldn’t let it end that easily…killing Demetrius didn’t reverse the spell:) They still have a bit of a problem to sort out, lol…<br> Nat- No worries, I wasn't upset at all...in fact, I was happy:) Thanks. Good luck with your story too!
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Post by nat365 on Mar 13, 2005 17:22:53 GMT -5
Ah, clever! Hmm, will Cole and Mel still be affected by the spell? Mel seemed to break through it on her own, so does that mean that the others will do the same? And what about all the mortals who saw magic? Ooh, I really want the next bit!
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Post by staceface510 on Mar 13, 2005 17:50:11 GMT -5
Nice fight scenes. Keep going please because I am hooked until you finish. lol!
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Post by CanadianHalliwell on Mar 13, 2005 21:32:22 GMT -5
Oh I agree with everyone else. You must hurry and update the story. This is worst than a favorite book that you can't put down, since we don't have the full story uughhh!
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Post by leigh19 on Mar 22, 2005 1:24:43 GMT -5
CHAPTER 14 (March 22)
Piper took a few seconds to regain her composure before giving her youngest son a weak smile. “Oh, Chris…” she whispered, her eyes fixed on the white feathered wings still present on his back.
Vanquishing the demon hadn’t brought her the end she had wanted so badly. They had gotten rid of the threat, but they still had a major problem on their hands.
Her happiness had been premature.
Slowly surveying the room, Piper could see that Chris was not alone in his predicament. Wyatt, Leo, Jenny and Paige still looked like angels too…and Mel still looked like a demon…<br> Trying hard to keep her breathing steady, she exchanged a brief glance with Phoebe who was now in a similar state of shock. They were the only two Halliwell’s that remained normal, and it was up to them to find a solution…preferably soon.
“It’ll be okay.” Piper muttered, hardly able to believe her own words. “We’ll figure this out…we always do.”<br> “You don’t know that, Mom!” Chris shot back bitterly as he folded his arms across his chest. He looked like one very pissed off angel. “What if there is no cure? What if we’re stuck this way forever? What if-”<br> Jenny stepped forward and placed a comforting hand on the boys shoulder, causing his words to slowly trail off. She muttered something in his ear, and with a slight sigh Chris forced himself to calm down.
“Sorry Mom.” He said sheepishly after several seconds, glancing down at the wooden floor. “You’re right…we’ll think of something…hopefully…”
Piper smiled slightly at the interaction between her son and the girl. She already had him under her control…she would be good for Chris; she could help him keep his Halliwell temper under wraps.
“That’s better.” She replied, briefly meeting Chris’ eyes. “We have to keep thinking positively here…we got rid of the demon, and better yet, the family is all together under one roof.” She smiled over at Phoebe, who reluctantly smiled back.
Despite the remaining problem, she was hugely relived to have her sister on the side of good again.
Leo nodded in agreement and placed a supportive arm around his wife’s shoulders. “Piper’s right.” He began, his voice calm and firm as he surveyed everyone in the room. “If we’ve learned anything over the years it’s that the power of three always triumphs. You just have to trust your power. We’ve had one big victory tonight- and now that you’re reunited nothing- not even this stupid spell- can stop us.”<br> “Ah.” Paige sighed with a wide smile as the whitelighter finished. “No big battle is complete without one of Leo’s motivational speeches. I don’t know about you guys but I’m totally psyched now…I think I’ll go to the kitchen and make us some coffee…then we can all get back to work!” She gave her wings an enthusiastic flutter before orbing off to brew some much needed caffeine.
“I’m beginning to think she likes having wings.” Wyatt muttered.
Chris scoffed. “Not likely. You just-”<br> “Chris, Wyatt.” Piper cut in, wanting to avoid a possible argument. That was the last thing they needed right now. “Why don’t you boys take Jenny and go down stairs for a bit? This night has been stressful for all of you…you need to relax. And I’m sure Jenny would like you to explain what just happened.” She looked over that the young girl who still looked rather pale and shaken by the events- she could only imagine what she was going through. It was unfortunate that he first encounter with a demon had been so dramatic.
“Alright.” Chris replied hesitantly, taking a hold of Jenny’s hand and orbing them out, Wyatt following soon after.
“Good.” With a roll of her eyes, Piper turned back to everyone else, mentally trying to work out a way to effectively divide up tasks. “Maybe I should help Paige in the kitchen.” She said after a short pause. “I can whip something up- I’m sure you’re all hungry and it’s no use working on an empty stomach. Leo- you and Phoebe start looking through the book for any demon that could have cast something this huge- and see if you can find anything about a possible antidote. I’ll send Paige up to help you soon.”<br> She noticed a sudden frown on Phoebe’s face as she finished, and shot her sister a look of concern.
“I don’t know if that’s a good idea Piper.” Phoebe said after a slight pause. She averted her gaze down to the floor and wrung her hands nervously. “I know that you’re happy to see me back- but somehow I don’t think Paige will be so forgiving. She went downstairs to avoid me- I could sense it- she can’t even stand being in the same room anymore…and I don’t blame her…after what I said…”
Piper sighed quietly as she took a few steps across the room to envelope Phoebe in a gentle hug. “Ah, sweetie- she’ll forgive you- she still loves you, I know she does. And she’s happy to see you back too- she just has different ways of showing it.”<br> “I wish I could believe that.” Phoebe muttered, fighting back the tears that were threatening to spill. She buried her face in her older sister’s sweater for several seconds and allowed herself the comfort and reassurance she so desperately wanted. She could hardly believe that Piper was willing to take her back after the terrible things she had done only hours ago…<br> “I’m sorry.” She choked suddenly, bringing her teary eyes up to meet Piper’s. “I’m so sorry for everything…”
Piper gently brushed a stray tear off of her sister’s cheek and gave her a slight smile. “It’s alright. Everyone’s back together now- we’re all safe. That’s all that matters.”<br> The middle sister nodded, still not convinced. She didn’t deserve forgiveness, especially not from Piper.
She had tried to kill Piper’s family…she had wanted her nephews and brother-in-law dead…<br> “Come on Pheebs.” Piper said gently as she finally released her from the hug. “I know that wasn’t really you. And besides, when it really mattered, you came through. You saved me from the demon…”
Phoebe couldn’t help but return her sister’s smile. It was true; her love for Piper had broken what ever had filled her with such evil. The old saying was true, love really did conquer all.
“Thanks Piper.” She replied, her voice barely above a whisper. “I just wish I knew what happened to me in the first place…it was so strange…I was in the living room talking to you and then I was suddenly filled with these intense feelings of hate. Suddenly all I wanted was to get rid of the good in the house…this voice in my head was telling me to hurt Paige, Leo and the boys…” She paused slightly and looked down at the floor. “I don’t know why it happened…but I’m so sorry.”<br> Before another word could be exchanged between the sisters, a third voice spoke, snapping them away from their emotional conversation.
“I’m the one that should be sorry.”<br> Phoebe snapped around to see Mel, standing a few feet away in a shadowy corner of the attic. She was suddenly overwhelmed by the strong feelings of regret and remorse radiating from her daughter.
“Sweetie, what’s wrong?” she asked taking a few steps towards her. “What do you mean?”<br> Mel drew back from her mothers out stretched hand and receded further into the corner. She didn’t want comfort. This night had been her fault- now that she was thinking clearly again, she could hardly believe all that she had done…<br> Drawing a deep breath, Mel began to speak, her voice quiet and shaky. “I’m the reason you were filled with hate.” She explained, unable to look up at her mother. “Dad and I were down in the underworld, and I cast a spell so that you would want to join us…I made you evil…”
“Oh.” Realization dawned on Phoebe’s face as she absorbed what Mel had said. That explanation certainly made sense…no wonder it had all been so sudden and unexplainable. She was relived to learn that it really had been a spell- and not her true feelings- that had motivated her actions that night.
Sighing deeply, she moved towards her daughter once again, backing her into a corner so that she couldn’t pull away. “It’s not your fault honey.” She began gently. “You were effected by a spell too when you cast that one…you weren’t thinking clearly. You are no more responsible for your actions then I am.”<br> She looked into Mel’s eyes and she knew instantly that the girl did not feel any better.
“That’s different.” Mel replied after a slight pause. “I was under a spell that brought out my true nature- the way I acted felt so natural- I’m evil…a demon.”<br> Phoebe hesitated before responding.
In a way, it was difficult to tell Mel that that wasn’t true when her daughter stood staring back at her looking every inch a demon. Physically, the spell was still in full force, and Mel looked like the female version of Balthazar…<br> But, Phoebe had learned long ago that appearance wasn’t everything. She loved Cole despite what he was…and there was no doubt that she loved her daughter.
Looking like a demon didn’t automatically mean that she had to act like one.
“Oh honey.” She said, placing a hand on Mel’s shoulder. “You’re not evil- we both know that. The fact that you regret what happened proves it…and besides, you broke through the spell, you’re seeing things normally again.” Phoebe paused and looked thoughtful. “How did you break through the spell?”<br> Mel’s demonic features twisted slightly at her mother’s question. “I don’t want to talk about it.” She muttered as the pain of what she had done to Chris came rushing back.
“Alright.” Phoebe replied. “Then why don’t you go in the others in the living room…or maybe help Paige in the kitchen- you need to take your mind off things.”<br> Mel gave a slight nod and shimmed away, leaving Phoebe’s hand to fall back down to her side. Taking a deep breath, she turned around to face the others- she had almost forgotten that they were there. Piper and Leo stood a few feet away talking quietly, and Emily- who hadn’t spoken for several minutes- was across the attic slowly gathering up the broken potion bottles that now littered the ground.
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Post by leigh19 on Mar 22, 2005 1:25:21 GMT -5
“Shall we get to work?” Piper asked, looking over at her sister.
Phoebe nodded and began to walk to the book of shadows when a thought suddenly crossed her mind, causing her to stop mid step. “Where is Cole?” she asked, scarcely able to believe that she hadn’t inquired into her husband’s whereabouts sooner.
Leo gave her a sad smile and glanced quickly across the room. “Er-” he began hesitantly, searching for the right words. “Wyatt sort of knocked him out…but he’ll be fine, he’s just trapped-in a crystal cage…we think it’s for the best…you and Mel may be fine now, but I don’t think he’s broken through the spell.”<br> “Okay.” Phoebe replied, nodding in agreement and feeling slightly saddened to learn that the man she loved was still in a delusional demonic state. He hadn’t yet experienced the love necessary to overcome the hate. “Let’s start looking in the book- I want to reverse this as soon as possible.”<br> The whitelighter quickly followed her to the pedestal and the two began scanning the entries for any demon that could be responsible for the spell.
Piper smiled slightly as she watched them work. It was truly wonderful to see Phoebe- and Mel- back to normal, and she hoped that her brother and law would soon follow.
With a wistful sigh, she turned towards the other witch still in the attic. “You really don’t have to clean up.” She said, walking in Emily’s direction. “Paige can just say her favourite cleaning spell later- don’t work about it.”<br> Emily shrugged and threw a few shards of broken glass into the nearby trash bin. “If you’re sure…but I really don’t mind.”<br> “I’m sure.” Piper replied. “You’ve already helped us so much tonight- take a break. Thank you for what you did in the battle- that was a pretty impressive power. We couldn’t have done it without you.”<br> The other witch smiled and brushed some of the dirt and dust off of her shirt. “No problem. Just glad to be of some use. As I said, I used to do a lot of demon hunting- I sort of missed it.”<br> Piper smiled, she was liking the woman more and more by the second. The somewhat icy Emily she had first encountered was slowly being replaced by a warm and level headed Emily. She was glad to have met her, and she hoped that when this was all over, they could still keep in touch- it would be nice to have another witch to talk to.
“Would you like me to get Leo to take you and Jenny home?” She asked. “You must be tired, and I’m sure Jenny is too.”<br> Emily shook her head stubbornly. “No. This isn’t over yet, and we’re involved now- I refuse to leave you guys to deal with it alone.” She paused and a brief smile fluttered across her face. “And besides, I’m sure Jenny is enjoying her time with Chris.”<br> Piper smiled back, and the two mothers exchanged a meaningful glance.
“You know,” Emily began again. “It kind of figures that after protecting Jenny from magic for all of these years, she falls for the only other magical being in her high school. The universe works in mysterious ways…”
“That it does.” Piper laughed. “I’m glad it happened though- Chris has always felt a bit isolated because of what he is- and this spell certainly hasn’t helped matters. I think he’s glad that Jenny is half whitelighter too, and that our family isn’t the only one in this unique situation.”<br> Emily nodded. “I feel that same way actually- I spent so many years thinking that we were alone- that Jenny was alone- I’m sort of relieved now, despite everything-” she trailed off. “Sorry if that doesn’t make sense…”
“It makes perfect sense.” Piper replied as they locked eyes again. “Now, why don’t you come help me get some things ready in the kitchen- I’m sure it would help speed things up.”<br> Emily nodded again. “I’d love to.”<br> And with that, the two headed out of the attic.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
“Well, this sucks.” Chris said as he Jenny and Wyatt rematerialized in the manor’s living room. “I actually thought it was over, and then I realize that I still look like some sort of oversized bird. This is just great.”<br> Wyatt rolled his eyes at his brother’s ranting as he flopped down a chair, being careful not to crush his wings. He was annoyed and disappointed too, but he knew that complaining about it wasn’t going to do anything- he was usually the logical one in these sorts of situations while Chris was…well…Chris: neurotic, paranoid and sarcastic…<br> “How can you be so calm Wy?” Chris demanded as he noticed his brother’s lack of response. “You do realize that we can never go out in public again! Have you looked at yourself in the mirror? We’re freakin’ angels!”<br> With a sigh, Wyatt looked up at his younger brother. “Chris, you need to calm down.” he said, his blue eyes locked on Chris’ green. “Yes, of course I’ve noticed the problem, but yelling about it isn’t going help. And besides, even though you don’t act like it, you’ve technically been an angel your entire life- it’s no reason to freak out.”<br> Chris groaned in frustration and glared at Wyatt. “If the little pacifist voice in my head wasn’t telling me to avoid violence, I would totally kick your ass right now.”<br> “Ha, you prove my point.” Wyatt replied smirking, “Very un angel like.”<br> The next thing he knew a pillow flew across the room and hit him square on the head. “Hey!” he exclaimed, his eyes narrowing at Chris. “What happened to the pacifism?”<br> The brother’s locked eyes again and a tense silence filled the room for several seconds untilthe two suddenly burst out into laughter.
“Sorry Wy.” Chris choked as he tried to regain his composure. He was smiling broadly, happy that their stupid argument had helped break through some of the stress of the night. “You’re right. I’m an idiot.”<br> “Glad that you finally admit it.” The older brother replied, still chuckling slightly.
Another pillow flew at his head after this comment, but this time he managed to catch it. Still smiling he threw it back at Chris- catching him off guard and hitting him hard in the chest.
“Fine, we’re even.” Chris said, throwing his hands up in mock defeat. “Spare me of your wrath oh great angel.”<br> Wyatt rolled his eyes again and shook his head with amusement. It felt good to have a regular fight with his brother; things had almost felt normal for a second…<br> Almost.
“You know Chris,” Wyatt began, suddenly remembering that they weren’t alone in the room. “I’d have thought that you’d want to act a little bit more mature around your friend.”<br> A mild look of terror crossed the younger boy’s face and a slight blush crossed his cheeks. He too had forgotten that Jenny had come with them. He had just had another flip out, and exchanged childish comments with his brother in front of the girl he had been trying to impress ever since they had met.
Idiot really was the right word to describe him right now.
He chanced a glance behind him and was somewhat relived to see Jenny looking more amused than anything- her arms were folded across her chest and there was a definite smile on her lips.
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Post by leigh19 on Mar 22, 2005 1:25:50 GMT -5
“Er- sorry about that.” He said sheepishly. “This night has just been so strange. So many ups and downs…”
Jenny nodded in understanding as she made her way over to the couch to relax. “Tell me about it.” She said with a slight frown. “I thought I had lost you…I don’t even know what happened…”
“What?” Wyatt asked, sitting bolt upright. “Chris, what does she mean? Are you hurt?”<br> Chris sighed and joined the girl on the couch. He didn’t really want to tell Wyatt- his older brother would probably get all overprotective and somehow blame himself for not being there to stop it. “I’m fine Wy.” He said, glancing down at the floor.
“Chris, what happened up there?” Wyatt questioned, his tone demanding an answer. “Was it the demon? I was occupied with Uncle Cole, I didn’t-”<br> “It was a demon.” Jenny cut in, unsure of why Chris was so reluctant to tell his brother. “She shot him with one of the arrows- and then she seemed to regret it – if that’s even possible. And I thought Chris was going to…” she trailed off and attempted to fight back the lump that was forming in her throat as she recounted the traumatic events that had almost cost her the boy she cared for so deeply. “But then the golden glow came and he was okay…somehow…”
Wyatt drew a deep breath as the girl finished speaking, and looked over at Chris who was still avoiding his gaze. He felt slightly ill- he didn’t know what he’d do if he lost his little brother…he didn’t want to think about it. Despite their frequent fights, they had always been extremely close…he’d never admit it out loud, but Chris was his best friend- the only one he could share everything with.
“You…you got shot with a darklighter arrow?” he gaped, his heartbeat increasing at the thought. That had been the second time that night…he should have been there to protect him.
Chris nodded and finally looked up. “Mel.” He whispered sadly. “But she didn’t mean it…and when she realized what she had done, she snapped out of the spell…she wanted to save me.”<br> “Um, what exactly is a darklighter arrow?” Jenny cut in, looking between the two boys.
She wanted to know how that thing had managed to hurt Chris so quickly…the demon girl had mentioned something about poison.
Wyatt sighed and began to explain. “Darklighters are evil beings that exist for the sole purpose of killing whitelighters. Their arrows contain a special poison which is deadly to any with whitelighter blood- and that means us. If the poison had stayed in Chris’ system long enough he would have died…that’s why Phoebe, Mel, Cole and the demon all showed up with crossbows- they knew it’s the easiest way to kill us.”<br> “Oh.” Jenny replied, her anxiety growing slightly. She really had been close to loosing him for good. “You knew that, and you saved me.” She whispered, turning to Chris. “She was aiming for me and you intercepted it- if you hadn’t, the poison would have killed me.”<br> Chris shrugged and gazed off at a distant point across the room. “I just didn’t want to see you hurt.”<br> The girl felt a warm feeling growing inside of her; he had literally saved her life- he had been willing to sacrifice everything for her…and as scary as that was, it also proved without a doubt that he cared for her just as much as she cared for him.
If this wasn’t love, she didn’t know what was.
“Oh, Chris.” She whispered, her eyes welling with tears as she shakily grasped his hand in hers. “Chris…”
“I’m the one that should be thinking you.” He replied with a weak smile. “You must have healed me…it’s the only explanation.”<br> “Healed you?” she questioned, her eyes clouding over with confusion. “You mean the golden flash?”<br> He nodded. “Healing is a whitelighter power. My dad can do it- and so can Wyatt and I…but we’re not quite as strong. I’ve never seen it work the way it did tonight though…usually it’s just a fait light coming from your hands.”<br> He stopped and demonstrated by healing a tiny cut on Jenny’s wrist with a warm glow. “See? Not too flashy.”<br> Jenny stared at her wrist and then aback up at Chris, feeling both amazed and confused. “You think I did that? Do you think I could? I just found out about everything tonight, and that seems like a pretty complicated power.”<br> The two brother’s exchanged a brief glance.
“It is difficult.” Wyatt said, intrigued by what they had described. “You have to learn it, and find your trigger.” He paused and his eyes widened slightly. “Although, the most common trigger is love…maybe because of the situation, and the fact that you both have the power somewhere inside of you, it somehow worked…”
Chris felt himself blushing again, and he noticed a deep red cross Jenny’s cheeks. “Yes.” She said, her voice barely audible. “I said it…just when I thought you were gone I said it…”
She looked down at the floor, her heart suddenly beating wildly in her chest.
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Post by leigh19 on Mar 22, 2005 1:26:37 GMT -5
Wyatt nodded. “That must be it then.” He said, still fascinated. “Don’t you remember the old story Chris?” he asked, looking over at his brother. “The day mom found out dad was a whitelighter, he had been shot by an arrow and they switched powers so that mom could heal him…and she couldn’t find his trigger and just as she thought he had died, then she told him that she loved him and she managed to heal him in time...”<br> Chris smiled slightly as Wyatt recounted the tale. His mother had told them that story many times when they were growing up- and their Aunt Phoebe had always joked that it marked the true beginning of the ‘epic’ Piper-Leo love story. A story that had been filled with so many ups and downs, but had ultimately ended happily. Maybe this night marked the beginning of his own epic story- one that he would recount to his own children in years to come…<br> He looked over at Jenny and smiled shyly- one could never be certain what the future held, but he certainly hoped that this girl would be a large part of his…<br> “I think you’re right Wy.” He said. “It certainly sounds similar.”<br> There was a slight pause as the three sat wrapped up in their own thoughts. “I have another question…” Jenny said, breaking through the quiet. “We killed one demon, but what about the others…and the girl…was that Mel, as in your cousin Mel?”<br> Chris sighed and shook his head sadly. “Yes, that was the same Mel. She’s not really like that though- the spell that has turned us into angels has turned her into a demon- her father, our Uncle Cole, is part demon- he was the tall red and black one. He’s not usually evil either.”<br> “It’s true.” Wyatt cut in, noticing the shock and disbelief on the female which-whitelighter’s face. “Cole over came his demonic half when he met our Aunt Phoebe, and Mel has never been evil.”<br> “How can a demon not be evil?” Jenny questioned, still confused. The idea of magic was still so new to her, and the way she saw it, the demon girl had tried to kill Chris and had wreaked havoc in the school gym earlier that night- she certainly seemed evil…<br> “It’s complicated- and I know this doesn’t make a lot of sense right now.” Chris began gently. “But you have to trust us- we know our cousin, and she isn’t really a demon.”<br> She nodded reluctantly. “Alright.”<br> “I wonder what they’re doing up in the attic.” Wyatt said, attempting to shift the conversation. “It was pretty obvious that mom doesn’t want us involved- probably thinks her itty bitty boys can’t protect themselves.”<br> Chris scoffed. “What else is new? You should have seen her when you were in the underworld. She’s so paranoid.”<br> “Well, I can see where you get it from then.” Wyatt replied, a hit of playfulness in his voice. Chris glared at his brother and glanced around for another pillow to throw, but before an argument could break out once again, a new arrival distracted all of their attentions. “Now now boys, this really isn’t the time for petty sibling rivalries.”<br> Mel had shimmered into the door way and was smiling with amusement at her two cousins. “Mel!” Wyatt exclaimed, jumping up to give his little cousin a hug. As he drew back, he took a second to absorb her new appearance- and he hoped that she didn’t sense his slight shock and uncertainty. She really did look like a demon. “Hey Wy.” Mel said, thankful that her oldest cousin was so happy to see her, despite everything that had happened. She hesitated before tuning her head and looking over at the couch where Chris had remained seated. “Hey Chris.” She said, her voice suddenly much quieter. She could hardly look him in the eye after what she had almost done…<br> ‘It wasn’t really you.’ She mentally reminded herself, thinking back to her mother’s words. ‘It was the spell’<br> She still didn’t fully believe it, but she had to try. She refuse to accept that any part of her truly waned Chris dead. She cared for him deeply- she knew that. It didn’t matter that she was part demon, and he was part angel- they were both Halliwell’s, and they were both cousins- their bond overcame all else. Her love for him had broken the spell. He had already said that he had forgiven her. Now, she just had to forgive herself…<br> “Hey Mel.” Chris replied with a smile. “Nice to have you back. Did your mom kick you out of the attic too?”<br> She gave a slight laugh, feeling more and more relieved by the second. Maybe things really would be okay…<br> “Yeah, sort of. She claims I need to relax- but I suppose that really means that she thinks I’m too young to take care of myself.”<br> Wyatt, Chris and Mel all shared amused smiles- for years now they had all fought with their parents about being allowed to help with vanquishes and alike. It was an on going battle in the Halliwell household. Cole, Phoebe, Piper and Leo were all hesitant to let their kid’s participate- and Paige usually defended her niece and nephews, arguing that they might as well put their powers to good use. “Can’t wait till I move out.” Mel said with a slight sigh as she walked into the room and headed for the large couch where Chris and Jenny were currently situated. She plopped herself down, comforted by the familiar softness of the fabric. It was good to be home. “So, what now?” She asked. “It’s almost one in the morning and I think-”<br> Her sentence trailed off as she glanced over at the girl on the other end of the couch. Jenny’s eyes were wide with fear and she was clutching Chris’ shirt so tightly that he knuckles had turned white. Frowning slightly, Mel locked eyes with the terrified girl. “What’s wrong?” she asked, leaning forward slightly and hoping that there was something else in the room that was causing Jenny’s behaviour. “D..don’t come any closer.” Jenny stuttered, tears threatening to spill over in her blue eyes. She knew that Wyatt and Chris had told her there was no reason to worry, but now that the demon was in the room, she couldn’t stop her reaction. She had never been so close to anything so terrifying- this was the creature that had almost killed Chris…and that had tried to kill her…<br> Mel’s eyes darkened and her heart sank as she realized that the female witch-whitelighter was indeed still afraid of her. She wasn’t even sure if she could blame the girl after what she had done. ‘You’re evil’ ‘You’re a demon’ her head screamed. The terror in Jenny’s eyes only confirmed it…<br> Her mother had been wrong. “I’m…I’m sorry.” Mel whispered, drawing back quickly. “I never meant to…” “You brought poisoned arrows because you knew they would kill us! Chris barely made it!” Jenny exclaimed, her confusion and terror suddenly converting into anger towards the demon that had brought her so much pain. “Jenny really, it’s fine.” Chris’ gentle voice cut in as he tried to calm the escalating situation between his cousin and his girlfriend. “No.” Mel said firmly as she stood up and took several steps away from the couch. “Don’t bother defending me Christopher. She’s right. I came here wanting to kill you- all of you. I am a demon…just look at me- you can’t deny it! I can’t deny it!”<br> “Mel, please…” Chris began again, but she cut him off before he could continue. “I shouldn’t have bothered you- I shouldn’t have come down here expecting your acceptance.” She paused and briefly met Chris’ eyes. “We can’t just go back to the way things used to be- this spell has shown us what we really are- and it’s shown us that we’re different. We were never really a family- family’s share a common bond- and we’re completely opposite beings. You save, I murder.” She drew a deep breath and allowed her tears too finally over flow. She glanced down at her shaking hands- they were red. As red as the blood that she was destined to shed. ‘You’re evil’ ‘You’re a demon’ her head screamed again. She nodded sadly, she knew it was true. “I’m so sorry” she choked, looking at Wyatt, and then at Chris…<br> His clear green eyes met her yellowed demonic ones, and with one last sob, she shimmered away. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX A/N Sorry for the wait people. I had to do my last essay (done now, yay!)…and then I spent the weekend in Montreal…and then I spent yesterday recovering…but I’m good now, and ready to get back at it! Hope you liked the chapter, not much action, but I think I needed to spend sometime dealing with the aftermath before moving on to the final battle. The next chapter will be a lot like this one- coping and reconciling (more reconciling next time, lol) Please try to understand Jenny’s actions- I know you’re supposed to like Mel, but I also don’t want people hating Jenny. I think her reaction is understandable in the circumstances. Poor Chris, now he will have to reconcile two of the most important woman in his life lol. And no, Mel isn't going to turn evil again, she's just going to be mad at herself for a while longer. Oh, and may I just stress once again that the love between Wyatt, Chris and Mel is a FAMILY love…nothing more. REVIEWnat365- Thanks for another review! Yep, Mel is fine again...but Cole isn't yet. More about him later. And more about the mortals later too...the Halliwells have forgotten about that little issue for now... staceface510- glad you liked the fighting! Also glad that you're hooked, lol. CanadianHalliwell-Sorry for the wait- I totally agree that Fan fiction is annoying that way...I hate waiting for updates (and I really hate when the story is left unfinished. It's like a book with the last pages missing, arg.) Ohh, and you're from Montreal aren't you...may I just say that I am SOO jealous! It is one of the best cities I have ever visited!!! It actually has a night life- unlike Toronto If I spoke better French I'd move there right now, lol.
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Post by CanadianHalliwell on Mar 22, 2005 8:01:54 GMT -5
I am glad that you enjoyed Montreal and the best way to learn French is to live in the middle of it. Alot of people here don't speak the language.
That was a fantastic update. I love it when they are long. I hope the Charmed ones can get through to Mel.
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Post by staceface510 on Mar 22, 2005 14:25:45 GMT -5
Definitely a fav now. Loved the update This is like a book...only I have to put it down for a few days when I don't want to. lol!
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scifi
Familiar
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Post by scifi on Mar 24, 2005 12:34:36 GMT -5
You’re doing such a good job with this, Leigh. You have nice dramatic moments interspersed with comedy: you have some of the best one-liners I’ve seen. Your original characters are pretty neat, too. Emily’s power kicks butt, and Jenny’s sudden ability to heal so dramatically is a nice mini-mystery. I really like Mel’s complexity, with her inner doubts drowning out her cousins’ reassurances. Keep up the good work.
scifi
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Post by leigh19 on Mar 27, 2005 4:07:11 GMT -5
Thanks for the reviews! You guys are so awesome:)
CHAPTER 15 (March 27, '05)
Mel shimmered into her dark bedroom and flopped down onto the bed. Hot tears stung her eyes and her body shook with suppressed sobs.
The girl had been right.
She was evil.
She had wanted to kill Chris…and she couldn’t deny the feelings of hatred she had been feeing all night. As soon as she had been hit with the spell she had felt so free - it had been as if the barriers that had always kept her actions restrained had been suddenly lifted.
She had liked that feeling.
She had allowed herself to be consumed by it...she had come to the manor ready to destroy…<br> ‘Demon-You’re a demon.’ Her mind screamed as her body shuttered in self- hatred.
Mel had never seriously thought about that part of herself until tonight- of course she had always known of her fathers past, but she hadn’t considered what it meant for her. She had never really thought that a part of her was evil. But her days of ignorant bliss were now over- she knew what it felt like to be filled with immense hate, strong enough to hurt those she loved. She knew that the desire to kill had always been inside of her- she had just never embraced it…<br> Tonight she had.
Tonight she had let that part of her take over.
Tonight had changed her forever…<br> Even after the physical effects were erased, she could never go back to her denial. There wouldn’t be a second that passed without some distant thought about this
Letting out another loud sob, Mel slowly got to her feet and made her way across the room to the large mirror that hung above her desk. Still shaking she stepped in front of it and she could hardly suppress a horrified gasp as she stared at the reflection.
Deep red skin, covered in black markings…pointed teeth, ready to tear the flesh of her victims…dead yellow eyes, looking back with spine tingling coolness…<br> She felt sick, and her head spun with a hundred dark thoughts as she studied the image.
She couldn’t deny it; the person starring back at her was a monster.
A demon…<br> Just as frightening and hideous as those that her family had been vanquishing for years…<br> No wonder the girl had been afraid of her…she was afraid of herself.
Letting out a cry of anger and pain, Mel flung a fireball into the mirror, breaking it, and the reflection of the monster, into a thousand pieces…<br> XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
“We have to go after her!” Wyatt exclaimed, angrily getting up from his seat and beginning to pace around the living room. He turned angrily towards Jenny. “We told you, she’s not evil, she’s our cousin!”<br> Jenny looked down at the floor and a slight redness brushed her cheeks. “I...I’m sorry.” She whispered, sounding genuinely apologetic. “I couldn’t help it. She tried to kill Chris less than an hour ago…and I know you said she’s not evil, but it’s hard to just accept what she did. When she came in I just…I couldn’t help being afraid.”<br> Chris placed a comforting hand atop of hers and gave a loud sigh. He felt very torn at the moment- he could understand Jenny’s reaction, and he cared for her too much to be angry…but on the other hand, her comments had hurt Mel- even his cousin’s demonic exterior had not covered up the pain she felt inside. He couldn’t stand to see her suffer like that…<br> “It’s alright.” Chris muttered, forcing Jenny’s eyes up to meet his own. “I can’t imagine what it’s like to be hit will all of this in one night. You’re right, she did try to kill me, but you have to remember that that was purely because of the spell. Once you get to know her, you’ll understand that she would never hurt me- or anyone- intentionally.”<br> “Yes, and you had damn well better apologise.” Wyatt added bitterly from across the room.
“Hey.” Chris defended, rising from his seat on the couch and glaring over at his brother. “Back off Wy. Put yourself in her position- she just found out that demons exist! We understandbecause it’s our family and we know Mel, but Jenny doesn’t. I cansee whyshe’d be a little afraid when someone who looks a hell of a lot like a demon sits down three feet away from her.”<br> Wyatt folded his arms across his chest and locked eyes with his little brother. He could see what Chris was saying- but Mel was his cousin, and she was upset because of Jenny- Chris may be head over heels in love with the female witch whitelighter, but he certainly wasn’t…to him, Mel was the one that mattered. “Fine.” He said, his jaw clenched in annoyance. “But Jenny really should apologise when this is all over- and give Mel a chance.”<br> Chris nodded in agreement. “She will.” He replied, turning back to look at the girl. “Won’t you.”<br> “Yes.” Jenny said as she glanced back down at the floor. “Of course I will- I never meant to hurt her; really…I just got carried away.”<br> Feeling slightly more satisfied, Wyatt gave her a weak smile. “Good. Now, do you think I should go check on her?”<br> Chris looked thoughtful for a moment before responding. “Maybe not.” He began. “You know what Mel’s like- it might be best to let her calm down a bit first- she might blow you up if you try to reason with her now- I’ll go up in a few minutes…I think I’m the one she needs to talk to…”
“Alright…” Wyatt agreed reluctantly as he sat back in his chair and began rubbing his temples to relieve some of the stress building there. “I just want this whole mess to be over.”<br> Chris sighed as he too returned to his seat. “I couldn’t agree with you more...”<br> XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Piper and Emily arrived in the kitchen to see Paige rummaging frantically through the cupboards. “We are out of coffee!” she exclaimed angrily as she sensed her oldest sister enter. “How can we be out of coffee?”<br> “I was going to go shopping tomorrow morning- it was on my list.” Piper replied as she glanced over at a nearby shelf. “Are you sure we don’t have at least a bit left?”<br> “I’m sure.” Paige shot back as she held the empty tin up for her sister to see. “This really is the worst night ever.”<br> Piper grinned slightly at Paige’s ranting; it was a well know fact that when the youngest Charmed one went without caffeine for too long she could get seriously grumpy- as she was demonstrating quite clearly right now. “I guess we’ll just have to do without it then.” Piper shrugged as she walked over to the fridge. “You can help us cook- I think I have enough ingredients to make a large batch of pancakes.”<br> “Pancakes?” Paige asked with a raised eyebrow. “At night?”<br> “Well, technically it’s already morning. Two am to be exact.” Emily cut in as she went to help Piper retrieve the necessary ingredients.
“Urrg, don’t remind me.” Paige groaned, slamming a few of the cupboards closed. She already had a mild headache from her fatigue and she wanted nothing more then to collapse in bed. Paige had always valued her sleep, and she hated it when her Charmed duties prevented her from getting a solid eight hours. “I’m sleeping for a week when this stupid mess is over.” She muttered.
Piper shook her head in amusement as she began cracking eggs over her largest mixing bowl. “Ahh, come on Paige.” she began. “Just stay positive- you were all peppy and psyched up a few minutes ago.”<br> The youngest sister rolled her eyes. “Yeah, well that was before I realized that we were out of coffee- now, I’m just pissed.”<br> Chuckling slightly, Piper poured flour into the mix and began to beat the various ingredients together. It was soothing to be in the kitchen doing something she loved after this very stressful night. Despite the ongoing problem, she was still amazingly happy that the family was all together again. Mel and Phoebe were no longer evil, Cole was safe (although still under the spell), and everyone else had come out of the attack unharmed.
She knew that they could face the remaining challenge- as Leo had said, they just had to trust their power- everything would come out okay in the end…<br> “Paige, could you please set the table?” Piper asked as she mixed in the final ingredients and turned on the stove. “And Emily, there is a second frying pan in the cabinet over there- bring it over and we can both start cooking.”<br> The other two witches did as they were told.
“Maybe I could just orb into a grocery store and grab a new tin of coffee.” Paige muttered as she roughly placed the forks on the table. “I’d leave the money of course…”
“Personal gain.” Piper said absently as she began flipping the bubbling batter. “You’ll be fine without it Paige, move on already. We have more important things to deal with that your lack of caffeine.”<br> “Alright.” Paige huffed, finally giving in. “But if I collapse from exhaustion, then it’s your fault.”<br> “Fine- I take full responsibility.” Piper said amusedly. “You know, for an angel, you sure are grouchy…”
Emily gave a quiet laugh as the youngest Charmed on flopped down in the nearest chair. “Damn straight.”Paige muttered, folding her arms across her chest and glaring angrily at the empty tin of coffee. “This is definitely the worst night ever…”
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Post by leigh19 on Mar 27, 2005 4:07:37 GMT -5
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“Food’s ready!”<br> Piper’s voice echoed into the living room, breaking Wyatt, Chris and Jenny out of the silence they had been sitting in for the last several minutes. They were all tired, hungry, confused and slightly annoyed after the most recent conversation that had taken place.
There was still a strong tension between Wyatt and Jenny over what had happened with Mel, and, much to his displeasure, Chris found himself caught in the middle. Maybe it was the pacifist in him talking, but he just wanted this all to end- and he wanted everyone to get along.
“Good, I’m starved.” Wyatt muttered before quickly orbing out in a swirl of blue.
Chris sighed and looked over at Jenny. “You go on, I’ll be there in a bit.” He said giving her a reassuring smile and hoping that Wyatt wouldn’t pick a fight with her in his absence.
The girl nodded and slowly began to head for the kitchen. When she reached the doorway, she paused slightly and turned back to face Chris. “If you’re going to see Mel, tell her I’m sorry- tell her that it won’t happen again…”
“I will.” Chris replied, smiling reassuringly again as he orbed off to make amends with his cousin.
He reappeared outside the door- deciding it would be best not to startle her by orbing straight in- and knocked lightly. “Mel, it’s me.”<br> There was a long pause before her received a quiet reply. “Go away I want to be alone.”<br> Sighing, Chris tried again. “Please Mel.” He said, his voice begging. “You’ve had enough time alone. We need to talk.”<br> He waited for a response for several seconds before giving up and simply orbing to the other side of the door. The room was dark, but when his eyes adjusted he could see that Mel was curled up on her bed, her face buried in her pillow.
“Stupid whitelighter powers.” The girl muttered as she sat up to glare at her cousin. “You know in most normal families, when a person says ‘go away’ people don’t ignore them and teleport in anyway.”<br> Chris smiled slightly as he walked over to the edge of the bed and took a seat. “Well, in case you haven’t noticed, this isn’t a normal family.”<br> Mel was silent and as Chris pondered what to say next, he caught sight of the shattered mirror that now littered the floor of her bedroom. He sighed again and turned back to face her, his eyes full of both love and sympathy. “Look, Mel…” he began slowly. “I know you’re upset- and I’m sorry about what Jenny said- you really can’t beat yourself up over this. Strange stuff happens to us all the time- we just have to accept it and move on.”<br> She scoffed angrily. “Accept what?” she asked. “Accept that I’m a demon who tired to kill my own cousin?”<br> “No.” Chris replied quickly before she could continue with her rant. “Accept that you were under a spell that turned you temporarily evil. Accept that although you did try to kill me, you never really wanted to…and that you managed to overcome hate with love.”<br> The girl turned away from him as she thought over what he had said. She could remember what had happened in the attic- how she had stared down at his dying body and suddenly realized that she did care- that she wasn’t a cold hearted demon. She had wanted to save him…<br> Maybe he was right.
Maybe it was time to move on…<br> If he could accept it, why couldn’t she?
“But Chris-” she began, her voice barely above a whisper. “I don’t think I can forgive myself for doing such horrible things. I can’t deny that I wanted to commit evil- that a part of me is evil.”<br> He shook his head slowly and placed a comforting arm around her shoulders. “You’re not evil.” He said firmly, his voice full of conviction. “You were brought up as a good witch, by a good family. You’ve done nothing but good your entire life- and tonight you weren’t acting on your own free will. That wasn’t really you. And if it makes you feel better to hear it again, I forgive you Mel…even though there isn’t actually anything to forgive.”<br> Mel could not suppress the slight smile forming on her face as he spoke. The sound of his gentle and heartfelt words was so comforting, and she could not stop herself from believing all that he said.
She wasn’t evil.
She was a good witch…and she had broken the spell because of the love she felt for her family.
Demons didn’t feel love…but she did.
She felt it right now as she sat comforted in her cousins arms- she had felt it as she embraced her mother in the attic- she felt it every time she thought of her parents, her aunts, her uncle and her cousins…<br> She couldn’t possibly be a demon.
Not where it really counted…<br> “Alright.” She said, biting back the tears of happiness that had formed from this revelation. “Alright. I believe you Chris.”<br> He smiled and gave her a tight hug. “It’s about time.” He said, his voice suddenly full of relief. “And Jenny wanted me to tell you that she’s sorry about her reaction…she just found out about everything tonight- she’s still pretty confused.” He paused. “Don’t worry, soon, we can put this whole terrible night behind us. We’ll break the spell completely and go back to normal…well as normal as the Halliwell family gets anyway…”
Mel laughed slightly and returned his embrace, her arm brushing against his feathered wings as she did. “For both our sakes I certainly hope so.” She said, smiling genuinely for the first time that night.
“Agreed.” He returned her smile as the two gently drew apart. “So we’re good now? You’re totally okay?”<br> “I’m alright.” Mel replied. “Better then I have been all night. Thanks for breaking me out of my self pity Chris- you’re pretty good at the whole whitelighter advice thing.”<br> He laughed. “Hardly.”<br> “No really.” The girl insisted. “I swear you sounded just like Uncle Leo for a minute there with the whole ‘love overcoming hate’ bit. Maybe you should consider signing up for whitelighter duty after you graduate angel-boy.”<br> Chris laughed quietly again, pleased to hear a light and playful tone re-enter his cousins voice as she spoke. “Yeah, I’ll think about it.” He replied, still smiling.
Mel looked over at him thoughtfully and cocked her head to the side. “You know, it’s actually not a bad idea…you could be my whitelighter…I’ll need my own once I move out of the manor…”
“Maybe.” The word came out rather quietly as he considered what she said. As crazy as the night had been, it had helped him connect with that part of himself…perhaps it really was his true calling…he really didn’t know what he was going to do once school was over- that was always an option…<br> ‘Chris’ a voice echoed in his head before their conversation could continue and he turned to directly face his cousin. “Mom’s calling.” He stated as he stood up slowly. “I almost forgot, she’s got some food ready for us downstairs- you must be starved.”<br> The girl nodded enthusiastically, noticing suddenly that she really was quite hungry. “Sounds good.” She said as she too stood up from the bed and stretched her tired muscles. “I’ll race you!”<br> And with that she began to shimmer away.
Chris rolled his eyes. “No fair, shimmering is faster than orbing!” he shouted after her as he dissolved into a shower of sparkling blue…<br> XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
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