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Post by alchemystik32 on Feb 12, 2005 22:39:45 GMT -5
~* Heiress Of Magic *~
By: Alchemystik32
Revised & Updated
( Author’s Note: This was my most successful story, unfortunately lost in a fan fiction error. I’ve heard from many people who wanted me to redo this story. This is for all of those who asked and believed... ) **This story is rated PG-13 for adult language and situations and is an altered Season 4 and includes Cole Turner. The most important aspect to remember is that some of what happened on the show did NOT happen in this story. There was no closure after Prue’s death, no Hell Hath No Fury. An angry, grieving Piper could become a terrible force of nature...**
An Overview Paige Matthews was and still is a bit of an enigma to her family. Although she became a Charmed One by default, she had a destiny to fulfill just as her sisters did. The problem is, Paige’s destiny was vastly different from her sisters; For Paige Matthews, born to a witch and a whitelighter, was the designated Heiress Of Magic, the neutral judge and jury of all things magical. Without her, the fate of the Charmed Ones hung in the balance, but without an Heiress Of Magic the balance between good and evil was tipped towards the dark side. Which Destiny would Paige fulfill?
Chapter One: Discoveries
On Paige Matthews 25th birthday, she received a big surprise; unfortunately, it wasn’t the new car she was hoping for.... “ d**n! “ Paige cursed softly, surveying the run in her pantyhose. “ Why does this always happen when I’m late?! “<br>Her older sister Phoebe laughed softly and patted her hand, “ Sweetie, you’re always late. Right, Piper? “<br>Piper looked up from the newspaper she hadn’t been reading, startled and a bit annoyed by the intrusion, “ Hmm? Oh, yeah. “<br>Phoebe sighed as Piper went back to staring at the farm report and Paige’s eyes dropped to her plate. Who would’ve thought that she, Phoebe Halliwell, would be forced into the role of mediator, consoler, and cheerleader to a still stricken family? “ Gotta go. “ Paige muttered, grabbing her purse and jacket. Phoebe jumped up and gave her a hug, “ You have a good day, and tonight we’ll have nice party for your birthday. Ok? “<br>Paige shrugged, her eyes shifting to the aloof figure of Piper. “ Sure. See ya. “<br>Phoebe sighed again, and sat back down, toying with a bit of toast. Prue’s death had shattered the family, and although some months had passed Piper remained angry and hysterical, shunning her beloved husband, and barely tolerating Paige’s presence. Phoebe reached a tentative hand towards Piper’s, only to have Piper jerk hers away. “ Piper, how can I help you if you won’t let me?! Piper frowned, then bit back a sarcastic remark. Phoebe’s eyes were pleading with her, and a small spurt of shame spread through her. Phoebe was a victim, too. It wasn’t fair to take it out on her. “ I’m sorry, it’s just...I’m still having such a hard time dealing with Prue’s...with her being gone. Sometimes, I go into room, and I swear I smell her perfume, or feel her presence. The thought of Paige sleeping in her room, taking her place...it’s hard. “<br>“ I know it is. “ Phoebe said, reaching for Piper’s hand again. This time, it gripped hers tightly. “ But remember, Paige didn’t ask for this to happen, and if it wasn’t for her, Shax would still be here. “<br>Piper bit her lip, and then nodded, “ You’re right. I’ve been unfair to Paige, and it really isn’t her fault. Do you have time to shop? Let’s get something special for her; give her a birthday to remember. “<br>
That evening, the mood in the house was definitely lighter, and bursts of laughter rang through the rooms. Dinner passed happily, and Paige was in the midst of opening her gifts. “ Here. “ Phoebe said, squirming forward on Cole’s lap to place a package next to Paige. “ This is from all of us, but Cole actually found it. He thought it was perfect. “<br>Paige smiled, then gasped in surprise as the wrapping revealed a delicate gold locket on a slender chain...” Oh, wow, it’s beautiful! Cole found it? Double wow! “<br>Cole grinned at the mock disbelief in Paige’s voice. Since she had joined the household, the demon and the witch/whitelighter had grown closer, forging a bond they wouldn’t have expected. He admired her strength and guts, while she respected his knowledge, and loved him for loving her sister so splendidly. They had become friends. “ Scary, when the demon of the family has the best taste. Right? ”<br>They all laughed, and then Leo interrupted, “ Hey! It is from ALL of us! Right, hon.? “<br>Piper smiled and took Leo’s outstretched hand, making his heart leap. For so long, Piper had avoided him, lashed out at him, and lay in their bed at night crying as if her heart would break. He was at his wit’s end to help her, but he noticed that today she seemed brighter and more alive. Perhaps the dark clouds were beginning to part, and the family could resume their lives again. He glanced over at Paige and their eyes met in total understanding. Since day one, the bond between the whitelighter and his newest charge had been steadfast and true. They often spent hours talking, late into the night, and Leo soothed her fears and tried to banish the inferiority complex she carried with her. Prue Halliwell’s memory was revered by her sisters, and therefore was clouded, giving Prue an aspect of perfection that would have startled and alarmed her. Paige was having a hard time competing with that shining image, and had turned to Leo for help, guidance and comfort. They were so in tune, such soul mates, but each was aware of the little spark of attraction between them. They were careful not to fan it into something they would both regret. “ Here, let me help. “ Leo said, lifting the locket out of the box and showing Paige the back. Written in ornate script on the back were the initials P.M.H. followed by the words “ With Love From All “<br> “ Oh. “ Paige whispered, tears slipping silently down her pale cheeks. “ What’s the “H” for? ”<br>“ Halliwell, of course. “ Phoebe said with a smile, “ You’re one of us now. “<br> Paige looked around the table and saw nothing but smiles. Piper leaned forward and touched her hand, a look of genuine happiness on her pretty face. “ Welcome home. “<br> Before Paige could respond, a flash of blue white lights heralded the arrival of two Elders...
Leo got to his feet, “ Milo, Jana. Is all well? “<br> Milo gravely inclined his head, “ I seek the Halliwell named Paige. “<br> Leo looked at him, puzzled and then placed a firm and comforting hand on Paige’s shoulder. “ My sister-in-law, Paige. We’re celebrating...”<br> “ Her birthday. “ The woman called Jana purred, “ We know. That was the sign that the time was upon us. “<br> “ What time? What’s upon us? “ Phoebe demanded, standing up and going to stand on Paige’s other side.
Milo ignored Phoebe but looked intently at Paige. Lovely, he thought, all white and sable, with those fabulous dark eyes. He sympathized with the dilemma they would soon be facing, but was not deterred from his duty. Bowing slightly, he addressed Paige for the first time.
“ If you’ll come with me, Lady, we will soon have you comfortable in your new home. “<br> “What??” Leo shouted, “ What new home?! “<br> Milo held up his hand, and the uproar died down, “ This young woman is and always has been the Heiress Of Magic, it is time for her to take her place. She is the arbitrator, the guardian of all magic, dark and light. Come. “<br> Piper had been sitting silently, trying to absorb what was being said; but all she knew was this;she was losing another sister. How could this happen?! NO! She wouldn’t let it happen!
“ NO! “ Piper yelled, leaping to her feet. As she flung out her hands, Cole, forewarned by years of experience knocked her arm aside, so that instead of vanquishing the Elders, she merely damaged the long suffering dining room table.
“ You dare use your powers against us?! “ Milo roared, but Leo intervened, hastily. Seeing that Cole had a close eye on Piper, he steered the two Elders into the corner, while Phoebe tried to comfort her sisters..
“ Piper, it’s ok, it’s a mistake! I mean, c’mon, why would a bunch of Elders want to break up the Power Of Three? We just got reconstituted! Don’t cry, Paige, everything will be all right. “<br> But everything wasn’t all right. Leo walked back to the table, his face ashen..
“ I’m sorry, I...Paige, you have to go with them, just for a little while. We’ll get this straightened out, I promise you. “<br> Paige wanted to protest, but Leo smiled reassuringly and squeezed her hand. Behind her, Piper collapsed in a storm of weeping, held up by Cole, and Phoebe bit her lip, her eyes brimming with tears.
“ Go ahead, sweetie, do what Leo says. We’ll have you back with us in no time. “ Phoebe said, holding the younger girl close.
Paige pulled away, looking shell-shocked, then Leo took her hand, “ I’ll come up with you. Everything will be ok. “<br> Paige blinked back tears as Leo placed an arm around, and as the orb took hold, her last vision was of her sisters weeping, and Cole, looking intent and dangerous.
“ Happy Birthday to me. “ She whispered, closing her eyes, and letting her head drop onto Leo’s chest...
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Post by GThe4thCharmedOneR on Feb 13, 2005 12:48:45 GMT -5
WOW!! This is really good!!!! Please update soon... ;D
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Post by Assassin Witch on Feb 13, 2005 15:30:32 GMT -5
I smell Drama! Everything looks just about write, and this season, it's more Paige than P/C crap..yay!
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Post by alchemystik32 on Feb 14, 2005 17:54:28 GMT -5
~* Heiress of Magic *~
Chapter 2: At What Price Love?
By: Alchemystik32
*****
The long night passed slowly; finally towards dawn after an exhausted Phoebe had curled up on the sofa with Piper, Leo returned.
Cole bolted upright in the chair, shaking his head and stretching.
“ Well?! What the hell is going on?! Where is she? “<br> Leo sighed and rubbed his aching eyes. “ This is..Complicated. I’ll just lay it out for you, let you make your own judgments. “<br> “ Uh oh. “ Phoebe said, rolling her eyes, “ When you start like that, it can’t be good news. “<br> “ Let him talk. “ Cole said, beginning to pace, “ Go ahead. “<br> Leo took a deep breath, and began the story...
“ As you know, your Mom, Patty, had an affair with her whitelighter, Sam. “<br> “ Right. “ Piper snapped, “ Old news, move it along. “<br> Leo shook his head, “ Not really old news. It appears that the Elders, far from being upset about the match, actually had a hand in arranging it. “<br> “ What?! “ Phoebe yelled, leaping to her feet, “ Mom had to dump Paige on a nun because she was so afraid of those jerks finding out, and they KNEW?! “<br> “ C’mon, hon, sit down. Let him talk. “ Cole said in a soothing tone, pulling Phoebe down beside him and holding her hand.
Leo swallowed, “ Let me finish, please. I know this isn’t easy to hear, but it’s not easy for me to say. After all, I’ve worked with these guys; I thought they were my friends. “<br> “ What did I tell you about trusting your superiors? “ Cole asked, only half in jest.
“ Look who’s talking! “ Leo fired back, “ You’re hiding out from yours! “<br> “ Yeah, well, mine tends to vanquish you when he gets pissed. Yours just put you on the bench for awhile. “<br> “ Can we just do this?! “ Piper shrilled, an edge of hysteria apparent in her voice.
“ Ok. “ Leo said, beginning to pace, himself. ” Um. They knew, ok? They also knew that the Heiress Of Magic is born only to a witch/whitelighter mating. It’s essential that an infant heiress be raised as good as possible, because she is truly neutral. Raised good, she can see and understand both sides; raised on the dark side and she is lost forever. The last heiress was killed by the previous Source about 10 years ago, because she refused to rule in his favor. Paige was next in line, but they couldn’t take her until she turned 25 years old. Something about free will of destiny. “<br> “ I don’t get it. “ Phoebe said, and Leo shrugged.
“ I don’t really understand it either, it has to do with Paige’s will. She had two destinies to fulfill; they were waiting for her to choose. “<br> Piper, who had been sitting transfixed by the tale, winced. “ She was leaning away from being a Charmed One because of me. Because of how I treated her, didn’t want to accept her. This is my fault! “
Cole and Phoebe waited for Leo to comfort his sobbing wife, and were both surprised when he just looked away...
“ It’ll be ok, Piper. “ Phoebe murmured, “ I don’t quite know how, but it’ll work out. Right? “<br> Seeing Phoebe looking at him, Leo rubbed his tired eyes again, “ I hope so. The Elders don’t want to break up the Power Of Three, especially since it’s just been reborn. But, they have a duty to protect and nurture the Heiress. They did have one solution. “<br> All eyes turned towards him, eagerly, only Cole noticing that Leo looked less than happy about the so-called solution.
“ Hey, gals. How about you put on some coffee? I think we could all use a cup. “<br> Piper nodded, and wiping her eyes on a sodden tissue, she linked hands with Phoebe and disappeared into the kitchen.
Cole waited until the swinging door shut, and then looked intently at Leo.
“ Sit down before you fall down. “ He ordered.
Leo complied, as if in a daze.
“ Ok. “ Cole said in a quiet voice, “ Talk to me. “<br> Leo blew out a shaky breath, “ If Paige gives birth to the next Heiress, they’ll allow her to stay a Charmed One. “<br> “ What about the baby? “ Cole asked, his senses tingling. Something was wrong; something dark and destructive was involved in this.
“ She’d have to surrender it. Paige would be allowed to visit, especially to nurse while the baby is small. After that...about once a year. “<br> “ She’ll never go for it. “<br> “ She isn’t going to have a choice. You know as well as I do, the Source is just awaiting his turn; this isn’t a good time to be without the Charmed Ones. “<br> Cole nodded, reluctantly agreeing, “Who? I mean, who’s supplying the other half of the heiress’s genetic ability? “<br> Leo was silent, his hands shaking, his face ashen...
“ You’re not serious? “ Cole said, astounded and concerned, “YOU?! “<br> Leo nodded, slowly, tears filling his eyes, “Yes. Me. “<br> *****
Paige paced the confines of the small room. In the past few hours, she had been poked and prodded, interviewed, instructed and fawned upon. All she knew was that she wanted to go home. For the first time, the Halliwell Manor felt like home to her, and she wanted to be there more than anything. With her sisters, with Cole. With Leo...
Something was wrong, she could sense it. There was talk about a baby, and it appeared that she was going to be required to produce another Heiress. So be it, she loved kids, and having the arbitrator of magic as her daughter didn’t seem like such a bad idea. She’d raise her with Piper and Phoebe’s help, and she’d be loved and spoiled. The only question was the father and the means. Paige suspected that artificial insemination would be used, the donor specially chosen; just as her own father was.
She sighed; it didn’t matter. All that mattered is she get out of this room, this special room designed to allow the heiress access to all magic being practiced in the universe. Magical misuse was then weighed, judged, and steps were taken to rectify the situation. Sometimes, albeit rarely, time was reversed. At other times, the Cleaners were dispatched and memories were altered. It was up to the heiress to make these judgments, and frankly, Paige wanted no part of it. The balance between good and evil was delicate at best, and she was still learning how to be a witch! How long would she be required to learn before she could even understand the subtle nuances between use and misuse?
“ I’ll give them their heiress. “ She whispered to herself, “ As long as they let me go home. “<br> *****
“ Don’t tell the girls, “ Cole warned, “ Not yet. Let me do a little...Ah hah. I knew he’d find me sooner or later. “<br> Leo turned as a tall, handsome blond man shimmer into the room...
“ There you are! What did Daddy say about staying up so late on a school night? “ The man said, a twinkle in his blue eyes.
Cole grinned, “ Aw, c’mon! It’s only...oh, yeah, it is late, isn’t it? “<br> ” Very late. You were supposed to meet me, oh...about 6 weeks ago. “<br> “ Sorry. “ Cole answered, “ I kinda got busy here. Leo, meet Eric. Ex-protégé, passably proficient demon, and all around good guy. “<br> Eric rolled his eyes, “Please, I’m blushing here. How ya doing, Leo? “<br> Leo got up, shaking the outstretched hand. A demon? This guy didn’t exude the typical demonic air that every other demon always did. Even Cole, for all his goodness, still had that menace about him. This guy? He seemed completely normal; warm, witty and sympathetic. So much for stereotypes.
“ Hi. “ Leo said, still puzzled. What was it about this man that was different? He pondered this as Cole and Eric began a cryptic, fast-paced conversation...
“ Well? “<br> Eric shrugged, “ The news is out, and the Big Guy? Way pissed. Is it true? “<br> Cole shrugged in return. “Looks to be. We’ll know more soon. Anything else? “<br> “ You’re still on the proverbial fecal matter list. “<br> Cole laughed and rolled his eyes, “ So what else is new? “<br> Eric grinned in return, “ Not much else. Tempus is being a pain. You know, for a shadow demon that has to borrow life forces just to exist, he has a real problem with his attitude. And his people skills. “<br> “ I know. “ Cole agreed, “ I’ll talk to him as soon as I can. My fault, I was suppose to see him a while ago. “<br> “ You were supposed to do a lot of things a while ago. “ Eric told him, settling down on the sofa, and sniffing the air. “ Coffee? Eggs? Toast? I’m moving in. “<br> “ Don’t threaten me, and don’t nag; it’s not attractive. “<br> Leo was amazed by the warmth between the two men. Another demon/human mix? He was curious about this newcomer, and eager to know more. Before he could ask any questions, though, Phoebe poked her head around the corner...
“ Come and get it. Bring your friend, too, Cole. “<br> “ Yes, dear. C’mon friend. You coming, Leo? “<br> “ In a minute. “ Leo answered, and waited until his was alone in the room...
He then put his head back on the couch, and allowed himself to break down. What was he going to do? How was he going to explain to Piper that he was the one who had to father Paige’s baby? That he had to do this because he needed to prove to the Elders that he could be obedient, that his lapses in decorum were due to his need to be with Piper and not that he was a loose cannon of a whitelighter? That artificial means was no allowed and it must be done in an act of love? And Paige...
There was no denying the common bond, even the attraction between them. Perhaps it was the whitelighter in them both that allowed them to understand each other so well, almost without having to speak. He was so torn! If he said no, he’d be stripped of his status, and another whitelighter would be appointed to guard the girls. However, if he agreed? Would it be the end of his marriage?
And what of Paige? What choice would she make?
Why did love always have such a high price?
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Post by CanadianHalliwell on Feb 14, 2005 18:20:12 GMT -5
Abosuletly fanfictastic. This is an amazing story. Please keep it up!
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Post by Assassin Witch on Feb 14, 2005 18:43:41 GMT -5
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Post by alchemystik32 on Feb 16, 2005 22:34:59 GMT -5
*~ Heiress Of Magic ~*
Chapter 3: Betrayal From Above
By: Alchemystik32
*****
In the kitchen, Piper and Phoebe were a bit nonplussed by Eric...
" So..um..how did you meet Cole? " Piper asked, shredding a piece of toast on her untouched plate.
Eric hastily washed down a mouthful of eggs with a sip of coffee, and glanced over at Cole. Cole looked back impassively, a twinkle in his eye.
" How did I meet Cole? Shall I give you the PG-13 version, or do you want the truth? "
Before the girls could answer, Cole placed a hand on the sleeve of Eric's suede jacket.
" You might want to be very careful with your story telling, dude. I've got more on you than you have on me, and I won't hesitate to use what I know. "
“You wouldn't!? " Eric said in mock terror. Phoebe began to giggle and despite her agitation, Piper felt herself warming to this strangely attractive demon.
“In a heartbeat. " Cole promised solemnly.
“Ok, ok...now, let's see. Well, all new demons are assigned a mentor, and I was lucky enough to get paired with the great Belthazor. Somehow the Source thought a demonic lawyer and doctor made a good team. "
Piper lifted a quizzical brow, " Wait, you're a doctor?! How can a doctor be evil? "
“Have you seen what I charge?” Eric asked, straight-faced, only breaking in to an impish grin when Cole choked on his coffee trying not to laugh.
“Seriously.” Phoebe said, “Doctors help people, so how can you be a doctor and a demon?”<br> A shadow passed quickly over Eric's face, and then the engaging grin was back. “We all make mistakes in our lives, Phoebe. Some of us make bargains we shouldn't, and have to live with the consequences of our actions. "
Phoebe opened her mouth to ask more questions, but Cole, after exchanging a warning look with Eric, smoothly changed the subject.
" I think we need to bring Eric up to speed on what's happening here. We may need his help. "
Phoebe was quickly diverted, but Piper eyes Eric with suspicion. She was the big sister now, and it was up to her to protect Phoebe; and Paige. " What was I thinking?! " She asked herself. " Of course Paige is my sister, how could I be so unfeeling towards her! We three need to stick together, that's what Prue would want. If only Leo had done his job! And, Cole! Taking Phoebe and Leo away to the Underworld, leaving me and Prue alone, unprotected, without the Power Of Three or our whitelighter! It's their fault! "
Another crack appeared, unseen, inside Piper's fragile mind. All too soon without help, the hate, anger and fear that was simmering inside her would reach the boiling point; without help, she would shatter into millions of different pieces; and a few different Pipers...
*****
Paige looked up as the door to the room she was locked in opened, and Leo stepped in.
" Leo! " She breathed, getting up from the chair. She was so glad to see him!
" Hey you. How's it going up here? " He asked, trying to appear casual.
Paige shrugged, " I don't understand all this! If I was meant to do this, why did I become a Charmed One? "
" Because. " Leo started, and had to stop, swallowing hard, " Because Prue died. "
Paige frowned, " I know, that's what has me confused, too. If they needed me to be the heiress, why did they let Prue die? "
" Who? The Elders? " Leo asked, startled, for Piper had hurled that at his head all too often lately.
Paige nodded, and Leo reached out and took her hand, leading her back to the two chairs in the corner.
“ Come and sit down. We’ve got a lot to talk about. “<br> *****
“ Wow. “ Eric said, shaking his head, “ That’s a helluva story. Poor kid. “<br> Cole nodded, “ Unfortunately, I have a feeling that this story is going to get a lot more involved before it’s over. Here comes Phoebe, we’ll talk more later. “<br> Eric nodded, and watched his friend greet the love of his life; and felt a twinge. Not all that long ago, a pair of eyes alight with love were looking into his, just as Phoebe’s were fastened on Cole’s. His fiancée, Dawn, had been taken from him in a hideous way, and his attempts to fight back had just made matters worse. If it hadn’t been for Cole Turner....Belthazor, the legendary mercenary. The upper level demon whom all lesser demons tried to emulate; he had befriended a terrified new recruit, and a friendship of lasting proportion sprang up between the two.
The two demons shared more than just a dose of humanity and a human soul. They had become like brothers. Eric knew that Cole’s betrayal had angered the Source beyond all reason, and the fact that he, Eric, had found Cole and wasn’t going to report it? Brought the number of demonic fugitives in the Halliwell home up to two.
Phoebe stood up with a smile, and dropped a kiss on Cole’s head. With a wave of her hand, she was out the front door, leaving Cole to stare after her, a satisfied expression on his face.
“ She’s gone, Romeo, you can blink now. “ Eric said, sarcastically.
Cole sighed, and smiled a bit ruefully, “ Sorry. I just can’t stop being amazed that such a bright & beautiful person could be so in love with me. “<br> Eric rolled his eyes, “ Oh, thank you very much! “<br> “ What? Ok, you’re cute, but you are definitely NOT beautiful. “ Cole answered, attempting to keep a straight face, “ You know, if you’d fix yourself up a little. “<br> “ Well, if you’d take me out somewhere nice once in a while! “ Eric pouted.
Piper stood in doorway, shaking her head. Great. As if they didn’t have enough problems, now her resident demon had a sidekick. Comic relief, Underworld style...
*****
“ I don’t believe this! “ Paige gasped, “ How can they even ASK that of you? And of me? You’re my brother-in-law! “<br> “ I know. “ Leo said quietly, “ But...”<br> “ No! “ Paige hissed, “ No buts! It’s monstrous! It’s, it’s....”<br> “ You’re only chance to stay a Charmed One. You’re only chance to come home. Would it be so horrible? If we weren’t who we are? “<br> Paige covered her face with her hands. She wasn’t going to deny the attraction between them; it had been there since the first time they had met. Nor was the idea completely distasteful from a non-emotional standpoint. It was the idea that the Elders could so callously manipulate peoples’ lives that infuriated her. They had taken her out of her comfortable life and thrust her into witchhood, complete with sisters. Then, they whisked her away from that, demanded she do their bidding, and then set a high price for her freedom...
“ No, Leo, it isn’t a horrible thought, if we looked at it from a different viewpoint. Unfortunately, we have to look at the big picture. What would Piper think? Say? “<br> Leo sighed. He was beyond tired, distraught, and confused...
“ I don’t know, Paige. Why don’t I ask her? “<br> Paige looked at him steadily. Piper would never go for it. Really, what woman would say yes, please sleep with my husband? She’d say no way, and probably hit Leo with a blunt object just to make sure her point got across.
“ Ok, ask her. Whatever she says, goes. Deal? “<br> Leo nodded, “ Deal. “<br> As he orbed away, Paige wiped a stray tear from her pale cheek...
Piper will say no. I know it. She say...
*****
“ Yes. “ Piper said, without hesitation. “ Of course it’s ok! “<br> Phoebe gasped, placing a hand on Piper’s arm, “ Sweetie, think about this! They’re asking your husband to impregnate your sister! “<br> Piper nodded, “ I know it may sound a little weird, but then Paige can come home. I won’t lose another sister, Phoebe, I mean it. “<br> Leo just stared at his wife as if he had never seen her before. Sure, she had been on an emotional rollercoaster since Prue’s death, Paige’s appearance, etc, but this? This was BIG. This would affect their marriage for the rest of their lives, and yet Piper never even mentioned him. Her concern was for Paige.
“ Piper...maybe we should discuss this in private. “ Leo said, reaching for her hand.
Piper frowned and snatched her hand away, “ There’s nothing to discuss! It’s our only solution! You said it was up me, and this is the choice I’ve made. “<br> “ Cole? “ Phoebe said, pleadingly, looking up at him. “ Do something, say something! “<br> Cole sighed, “ Piper? Are you sure you’ve thought this through? A baby, Piper. Your sister will have your husband’s child, and that baby will be right here, under your nose. A living reminder. Can you really deal with that? “<br> Piper tilted her head back and stared at Cole. “ Yes, Cole, I understand all that. I don’t care if there’s one child or fifty! It’s my job to hold this family together now! I’m not going to blow it! We will do whatever it takes to keep the Power Of Three intact. “
Cole shook his head, “ I give up. “<br> Piper turned to look at Leo, “ You owe me. You let Prue die because of me. Maybe this is what I have to do to make it up to her. “<br> “ Honey...” Leo pleaded, “ Prue isn’t angry with you, you don’t have to do anything you don’t want to! No one owes anyone anything. “<br> Piper pressed her lips into a firm line, “ I said yes. Bring my sister home. “<br> *****
Not to far away from the room where Paige awaited Leo’s return, the Elder Jana smiled slowly at herself in the mirror...
“ How perfect our plan is going “ She purred.
And just for a split second, a dark-skinned face, with black hair in braids on top of her head, smiled back....
“ Yes. How perfect. “<br> *****
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Post by traci26 on Feb 18, 2005 10:56:26 GMT -5
This story is so good.... I can't wait till you update it. I gotta see what happens next.. What does the female Elder have in store for Paige?
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Post by Assassin Witch on Feb 21, 2005 22:41:50 GMT -5
Someone smack Piper, NOW!
Hmm...this is extremely interesting.
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Post by Jamison on Feb 21, 2005 23:40:06 GMT -5
whoa!!!!!
awesome story. i really like it!!!
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Post by brittania on Feb 25, 2005 23:28:34 GMT -5
Great story. I'm anxiously awaiting an update.
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Post by alchemystik32 on Feb 27, 2005 20:32:28 GMT -5
*~Heiress Of Magic~*
The Die Is Cast
By: Alchemystik32
*****
A subdued Paige greeted her sisters, and then excused herself. As her footsteps died away on the staircase, Cole raised a mocking eyebrow in Eric’s direction. Eric had been staring at Paige with a look of adoration on his face; and Cole, being Cole, couldn’t resist teasing him about it...
“ She’s gone, Romeo. You can BLINK now. “<br> Eric scowled, “ Ouch. That was cold. And, it’s been SAID. “<br> Piper rolled her eyes, but Phoebe giggled. She was developing a liking for this handsome and sassy demon, and even the ever-reserved and suspicious Piper found him amusing. There was something almost...nice about him. Cole was always polite, had a great sense of humor, was helpful and self-effacing, but he was still demon; At least in Piper’s eyes. But Eric?
Seemed so normal...
Piper jumped as Phoebe touched her arm. “ Are you ok? “ She asked.
Piper nodded, “ Yes, I’m ok. I’m a little worried about Paige. Should we go talk to her? “<br> Phoebe thought for a moment, and then shook her head, “ Let’s let her settle in. She’s been through a lot in the past 24 hours; let’s give her some time. “<br> Piper agreed, and then made her way to the kitchen. A split second later, an exhausted Leo orbed into the room.
“ Where’s Piper? “ He asked.
“ Kitchen. “ Cole answered, and then began to outline a plan...
Leo listened quietly as Cole went on and on, his voice rising. Finally, Leo could stand no more, and held up a hand.
“ I appreciate all the time and trouble you’ve gone through, but there’s no way out. If I...We don’t so this, Paige is lost to us as a sister and as a Charmed One...I’m lost, period. “<br> “ What do you mean? “ Phoebe asked, apprehensively, “ What would they do to you? “<br> “ I know. “ Eric answered, somberly, “They’d recycle him. Correct? “<br> Leo was taken aback, both by this stranger’s appearance in their midst, and by the aura of concern and compassion emanating from him.
“ Correct. “ Leo said, eyeing Cole. Who was this person?
“ Sorry. Leo, Eric. Whitelighter, Sage, and all around good guy. Eric is a...friend. “<br> Leo nodded a greeting, catching Cole’s emphasis on the word “Friend “. Obviously, Eric was someone that Cole had taken into his confidence; someone aware of the rather peculiar circumstances facing them.
“ I need to see Piper. “ Leo finally said, and then turned to Phoebe, “ Look in on Paige; she’s crying. “<br> Phoebe nodded then stopped, stunned. How did Leo know that?
Leo caught Phoebe look and flushed slightly, “ I’m always in tune with my charges. “ He stammered, and then beat a hasty retreat.
In tune? Phoebe asked, silently. Did this guardian know what she was thinking and feeling?
Eric shook his head and answered carefully, “ Cole says there was always a fairly tight bond between the two of them. I’m sure with all that is happening, Leo’s senses are heightened. “<br> Phoebe nodded, absently, and smiled as Cole brushed a kiss along the top of her head.
It wasn’t until she was almost to Paige’s door that she asked herself..
“ How would a demon know that? “<br>
*****
Leo closed his eyes, and tried again...
“ Piper, I want you to be absolutely certain about this. Once...once it happens, there is no turning back. Do you understand? “<br> Piper looked up from the vegetables she was chopping. Her expression was bland, but Leo was disturbed by shifting emotions in her eyes. Anger and grief he could deal with, but Piper was looking and acting as if he were a stranger; And, an enemy.
“ Leo, I understand. Now, I want YOU to understand! I will not lose anyone else I care about, no matter what! We’ll do whatever it takes to ensure that this family stays together. ALWAYS! “<br> Leo reached out to touch his wife’s shoulder, and was shocked as she recoiled, a look of disgust on her face.
“ Don’t touch me! I can’t bear to have you touch me! “<br> “ Piper...” Leo whispered, cut to the core, “ I love you! “<br> Piper narrowed her eyes, a look of utter distaste on her face.
“ If you love me, you’ll do this! You let Prue die, thinking I was more worthy than her, and I can’t forgive you for that! But...maybe if you do this for Paige, for all of us, it can heal some of pain. Maybe. “
Leo sighed, and left the kitchen with a heavy heart. He had no one to turn to, no one who could even begin to understand the torrent of emotions inside of him...until a firm hand grabbed his shoulder and propelled him out the door.
“ C’mon, let’s get some air. “ Cole said quietly, “ Phoebe is with Paige, and Eric will keep an eye on Piper. Looks as if you can use a friend right now. “<br> Leo nodded, a wry expression on his face. Who would have thought that the whitelighter could find solace with the resident demon? Who but Cole knew what it was like to love a Halliwell woman?
They circled the back garden a few times, each lost in his own thoughts. Finally, Cole sighed.
“ Hell of a day. “<br> “ Yeah. “ Leo murmured, “ Hell of day, week, month..”<br> Cole grinned, then looked at Leo; “ Are you going to do it? ”<br> Leo stared, unseeingly at the little fountain, his thoughts racing...would he do it? Should he? Was it nobler to accept the consequences a refusal would bring about? Lose the Charmed Ones? His wife? His existence?
Cole waited, patiently. Although he was pretty sure that he knew what Leo’s answer would be, he didn’t want to add any influence to the decision. Whatever was decided would impact the entire family, and ultimately, the world; Cole didn’t want anyone to say at a later date, that he was in anyway responsible for the outcome.
“ It’s hard to think clearly. I mean, I love Paige. Maybe more than I should, and not always in a brotherly way, but Piper is my life. My world. I always thought of her as the mother of my children; I don’t know if what they ask of me is even..um..physically possible. What if either Paige or I can’t..you know. “<br> “ Are we talking fertility here? Or spirit willing, flesh not cooperating? “ Cole asked, trying to lighten the mood. When Leo laughed, he knew that he had succeeded in more ways than one.
“ Both, I guess. I never thought of it that way, but I suppose that’s part of the problem. That and...”<br> Leo let his sentence trail off, embarrassed to admit another concern. Could he do this act without feeling some type of emotional bond? Afterwards? Would he disappoint Paige? Could he conduct himself in a business-like manner, or would Paige expect something more? Would he himself be satisfied with a simple mating?
Cole knew exactly where Leo’s thoughts were taking him, but politely refrained from commenting. Instead, he hammered home the important point.
“ Listen to me; If you refuse, evil will definitely gain the upper hand. Without the Charmed Ones, good will take a blow it may not recover from. Can you allow that to happen? “<br> “ Good question. “ Leo answered a slight smile on his face. “ You know, for a demon, you’re really pretty good at the psychology stuff. And, the understanding part, too. “<br> “ I try. “ Cole said. “ Well? “<br> Leo sighed, and then nodded slowly...
“ I’ll do it. “<br>
*****
Phoebe reached for another Kleenex, and tenderly wiped the tears from Paige’s face. Her own eyes welled up, but she swallowed back the tears. Paige’s eyes were red and swollen, and Phoebe felt as if her heart would break...
“ Paige, listen to me. It won’t be so bad. I mean, you and Leo are fond of each other, you admitted that you find him attractive; Just...close your eyes and think of the Power Of Three! “<br> “ Phoebe! “ Paige protested, and then began to laugh.
Phoebe joined in, and laid down next to her sister, “ Well, you know what I mean! Besides, having the Heiress of Magic as a daughter can’t be all bad! “<br> Paige nodded, and closed her eyes as Phoebe stroked her forehead...
She and Leo had clicked from the start. Many times she had felt guilty about feeling so drawn to him; After all, he was her oldest sister’s husband. Perhaps it was the whitelighter in her responding to another of her kind, or perhaps, he was just a kindred spirit.
Making love with Leo wasn’t the problem; it was the aftermath she dreaded. Would she lose her best friend? Would they be able to ignore one night of passion, and continue on as if it had never happened? Would Piper be as understanding after the fact as she appeared to be now? What about Phoebe? Cole?
What about the child? How did one raise such a magical creature?
“ Paige? “ Phoebe whispered. “ What are you going to do? “<br> Paige swallowed hard, and then sighed...
“ I’ll do it. “<br>
*****
Eric stretched and stood up from the couch. The house was quiet, but he was aware of an underlying feeling of unease. Something wasn’t right; the facts just weren’t adding up.
Eric smelled a rat. A demonic rat...
It was time to do a little investigating on his own.
He checked the area carefully, and satisfied that he was unobserved, he closed his eyes...
And disappeared in a sparkle of tiny, white lights...
TEXTTEXTTEXTTEXT
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Post by CanadianHalliwell on Feb 27, 2005 22:41:12 GMT -5
oooooh, hurry up and update again. This chapter was fantastic. When is Paige going to find out she can't keep the baby, will she find out before Leo and her go through with it? Hurry we are all waiting to find out
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Post by brittania on Feb 27, 2005 22:44:29 GMT -5
Great story! Let me know when you update!
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Post by hawk55 on Mar 1, 2005 17:33:19 GMT -5
This story is really cool! Can't wait till you update it!
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Post by Charmed Force on Mar 2, 2005 22:39:49 GMT -5
OMG... freshly addicted... gotta have more soon!!!
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Post by alchemystik32 on Mar 2, 2005 23:33:54 GMT -5
~*Heiress Of Magic*~
Music Of The Night
By: Alchemystik32
*****
The days passed slowly in the Halliwell house. Paige and Leo avoided each other as much as possible, while Piper and Phoebe made all the necessary preparations for the " Night ".
Cole stayed in the background most of the time, although Phoebe was aware of the growing friendship between him and Leo. While she understood why, she was still surprised, to say the least. Leo and Cole worked together when they had to, and were always pleasant and polite towards each other, but they were certainly not bosom buddies. Why now?
Piper didn't notice anything, so intent was she on creating the perfect place and time for Paige and Leo. Saturday night was decided on after consulting the Zodiac, the Tarot, and Paige's own personal cycle. On Saturday morning, when all was finally ready, Paige developed a very severe case of cold feet...
" No. I don't care what they do to me, but I will not do this! " She told Phoebe, her arms crossed defensively over he chest.
Phoebe sighed and cast a swift glance at Piper who was humming to herself, and fixing a vase of flowers for Paige's room. Piper was calm and placid where before she had been angry and emotional, but Phoebe was disturbed by the blank look in her eyes; this was not the Piper they knew and loved, but the situation was such that Phoebe didn't have time to dwell on the changes.
" Paige, now is not the time to panic. We've been through all this before! You agreed, Leo agreed, tonight's the night. It will be ok; after all, Leo isn't a stranger, and you two care about each other. "
Paige rolled her eyes and snorted, " I know I know Leo! Unfortunately, I'm about to know him alot more than I ever thought I would! "
Phoebe giggled in spite of herself, and even Paige had to grin, " Ok, you know what I mean. I just wish there was some kind of magic..."
Phoebe's eyes lit up and she grabbed Paige's hand, pulling her towards the stairs.
" What? Where are we going? " Paige asked, trying to keep up with her galloping sister.
" Attic! " Phoebe said over her shoulder, and once they arrived there, she closed the door and locked it.
" Magic can help more than we know! " Phoebe crowed, opaging through the Book Of Shadows...
" Here it is! The Inhibition Spell! "
Paige shook her head, " I'm already inhibited! I need an un-inhibition spell! "
Phoebe laughed and batted playfully at Paige, " That's what this is. It will lower your inhibitions and diminish your fear. I have a potion I can do for Leo, that will have a...ahem...positive effect. I'm not sure the spell would be enough for him, but the combination of the two should help. "
Paige nodded, feeling less stressed. Magic hadn't failed her yet, so perhaps Phoebe was right to turn to it now.
" Ok. Let's do it. "
*****
While Phoebe ministered to Paige, and Cole stayed by Leo, Eric was indeed doing his own brand of investigation. After skulking around the Underworld for a few days, and learning precious little in the way of new information, he made his way to the cave of the demon who knew all that went on.
Tempus.
" Yoo-hoo! Anyone home? " Eric cooed, mockingly, seeing a shadow move against the wall. " Aww, did I catch you at a bad time? When you don't have a human life force to feed off of and absorb the humanity? Tsk, tsk..."
A whispery voice wafted through the stillness...
" Mock me if it pleases you, but know this; you are no better nor worse than me. "
Eric frowned; nothing was more irritating than a demon who was right.
" We'll call it a draw this time. What's the news? "
There was silence for a moment, and then the frail voice sighed...
" It shall be as you thought. A girl child will be born, more powerful than any other Heiress, for this is a mating of great magic. "
" Yeah, yeah, I know. " Eric grumped, " I meant what is the stance down here. I'm getting mixed vibes. "
" The Source will have this child, there is little you or the witches can do to stop him this time. Once she is conditioned to our way, the balance will tip. In our favor this time. "
Eric was silent, waiting, but Tempus said no more..
" Ok, we're even now. "
As he turned to go, the fragile voice reached him once more.
" Choose a side, and stick with it. It does you only harm to live between both worlds. I should know. "
" Easier said than done. " Eric mumbled. " Much easier. "
*****
By Saturday evening, the stress level in the mansion was off the scale. Finally, Cole convinced Piper and Phoebe that a night out would do them all good, as Paige and Leo didn't need the entire family waiting outside the bedroom door. Eric arrived just in time to gallantly tuck Piper's hand in his arm and escort her out of the house, much to Cole's exasperation and Phoebe's amusment.
Paige blew out a sigh as the sound of the car receded. Now what? Did she get in bed and wait to be impregnated?
" Screw it. " She muttered to herself, " I'm hungry. "
When she arrived in the kitchen, Leo was already there...
" Oh. Hi. " Paige said, feeling ill at ease.
" Hey! Are you hungry? I made BLTs. " Leo answered her easily, seeming not to have a care in the world.
" I love BLTs! " Paige sighed, gratefully.
After that, it was much easier. They ate together, finding their friendship unaffected. Leo suggested a movie, and Paige chose a comedy from the family's vast array of videos. Later, with candles lit and music playing, they began to explore the situation they were in and found that they were indeed kindred spirits...
And when Paige woke in the night from a disturbing dream about her child, someone was there to wrap strong arms around her and soothe her fears.
And still later, what had begun as a tentative and necessary act became a wanted and needed expression of feeling.
And when the sun rose, Paige found the the potion still capped, the spell unread, and those arms still around her...
*****
The aftermath wasn't quite as peaceful as both Paige and Leo were riddled with guilt. The fact that they night had been so magical, that what had been viewed as a chore became a pleasure, bothered both of them.
From Paige's viewpoint, she had betrayed her sister in the worst possible way. Even though Piper showed no animosity towards Paige, and their relationship was improving daily, Paige was tormented...
Leo avoided her as much out of guilt as out of a strange kind of need. As much as he loved Piper, that night with Paige was beyond incredible. Perhaps the whitelighter in both of them allowed for a deeper more intimate connection; perhaps his wife's cold shoulder left him vulnerable and needy. Whatever the reason, Leo found his blood heating whenever he remembered those enchanted hours.
It wasn't until Phoebe cornered him about 6 weeks later, that he knew he would have to face the truth. He loved two women. And one of them was going to have his child...
" How much longer are you going to punish Paige?! " Phoebe hissed at him in the attic.
Leo had come up in hopes of finding Piper alone. Her anger seemed to have abated, but she acted as if he were a total and not very welcome stranger. He wanted desperately to banish the demons living within her, to pick up the pieces of their shattered lives. Instead, he found an angry Phoebe.
" Punish Paige? What are you talking about? "
" You know exactly what I'm talking about! " Phoebe said, eyeing him distastefully as she flipped through the Book Of Shadows. " She walks into a room, you walk out! Have you taken a good look at her lately?! She's as white as a ghost, and I swear, she's lost weight. Not to mention barely eating and feeling NAUSEATED!! "
Guilt plucked at Leo's heart. He was aware of Paige's unhappiness, and he had chose to ignore it, wallowing instead in his own sorrows. He had let her down.
" You're right, Phoebe. " He said, quietly. " Where is she? "
Phoebe's heart melted a bit. Leo looked miserable, too, and Phobe was pretty sure she knew the reason why.
Paige hadn't confided in her after that night, beyond saying that everything had gone well. But Phoebe, always sensitive to others, read between the lines. The night had been more than " O.K. " for both of the people involved, and they weren't handling that revelation well at all. While Phoebe hoped with all her heart that her sister and brother-in-law could rekindled their marriage, she didn't hold anything against Paoge and Leo for enjoying their " duty. "
" She's at the park. " Phoebe answered, and immediately Leo orbed away.
*****
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Post by alchemystik32 on Mar 2, 2005 23:37:11 GMT -5
2nd half, as it was over 10,000 characters. It's ok to be addicted, it's not fattening. ***** He arrived at the park, the cold wind whipping the water into whitecaps. The gun metal gray sky served as a backdrop for the small figure standing on the shore, and Paige's fragile appearance broke Leo heart. He had let this person who meant so much to him suffer in silence while he felt sorry for himself. What kind of whitelighter, what kind of Man would do that to someone so precious? Paige jumped as warm hands gripped her shoulders from behind. Leo turned her to face him, and felt a sword run through his heart. So pale, with dark circles ringing those marvelous brown eyes...she looked up at him, and he felt the tears sting his own eyes. " God, Paige, I'm so sorry! " He got no further, as she dissolved into tears. Holding her close, his own tears mingling with hers, he pondered the future. He knew that Paige was pregnant, just as he knew it was a girl. The heiress would be born, and perhaps life would resume some semblance of reality. " I'm pregnant. " Paige whispered as Leo dried her tears with his hanky. " I know. " He told her, gently. " I'm here, I'll be here for you the entire time. You won't go through this alone, I promise. " " Piper? " Paige asked and Leo grimanced... " Piper is...she's not herself right now. Maybe she'll be better now, but that doesn't change a thing. We did this together, Paige, and we'll go through it together. It's my baby, too. " Paige nodded and closed her eyes, resting her head on Leo's chest. They stayed that way for quite a while, supporting each other, drawing and giving strength... ***** Phoebe looked up as Cole and Eric shimmered into the room, obviously in the midsts of a polite discussion. " You're a dickhead. " Cole growled, elbowing Eric. " Yeah, well, you suck. " Eric growled back, returning the jab. " What the hell were you thinking?! Why didn't you tell me?! " Cole yelled, shoving harder. " Because I knew you'd act like an asshole! " Eric yelled back, shoving even harder.. " Ok! Enough! " Phoebe yelled. " Neutral corners! " The two hissed at a each other a few seconds more until Phoebe planted herself in the middle. " What is wrong with you two?! " She asked. " He's an idiot! " Cole began, but Eric jumped in.. " He's an immature asshole! " " Oh, just shut it! " " Bite me! " Phoebe rolled her eyes and got in between them again; " That's ENOUGH! Cole, go sit on the couch! Eric, chair! NOW! " The men were finally convinced that she meant it and went their separate ways. After sitting down, they still glared at each other, mouthing threats and obscenities. Phoebe opened her mouth to ask what all the fuss was about, when Leo and Paige orbed into the room.. One look told her that differences had been resolved. Both looked pale and red eyed, but they were smiling, and Phoebe was aware of the entwined tightly gripped hands . " We're pregnant. " Leo said, with a note of pride in his voice. The threesome exchanged nervous glances, not quite sure what to say, until Eric piped up. " Congrats...I think. I mean, it's good news, right? " Paige giggled, and Leo grinned. Before he could answer, Piper's voice sounded from the doorway.. " What are we celebrating? "
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Post by CanadianHalliwell on Mar 3, 2005 12:52:38 GMT -5
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Post by Assassin Witch on Mar 3, 2005 21:20:57 GMT -5
What in the world is with Eric? And PIPER! MY GOD! Where's that smack I asked for? *looks around* You know, reading your ffs, I seem to start to like Cole more and more...*curses*
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