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Post by alchemystik32 on Mar 5, 2005 12:42:38 GMT -5
*~Heiress Of Magic~*
Flight
By: Alchemystik32
*****
Piper waited while uncomfortable looks were exchanged all around. Finally Paige broke the silence.
" It worked, Piper. I'm going to have a baby. "
Piper stood still, a perplexed look on her face. A baby? Paige? Oh, yes...Paige & Leo, a baby Heiress of Magic; She remembered now. Well, this was a good thing, because it meant that Paige would not be going away. She had saved her family. Prue would be proud of her...
Piper smiled and held out her arms to her youngest sister, " I'm so happy for you! Let's hope it's a girl, or it'll be back to bed with you two! "
Phoebe gasped, while Eric elbowed a choking Cole. Paige stared at her sister and then turned to Leo for help. He gently took Piper's arm, talking softly to her.
" It's ok, honey, the baby is a girl. I know it is. Everything is going to be ok. "
Piper smiled again, in a vacant but polite manner, " Of course it will be ok. Paige anything you need, you just ask. Leo will be with you all the time, I insist! "
" But, Piper...! " Leo began to protest, only to have her wave her hand impatiently at him.
" Whatever Paige needs, you will do! Understand?! Everyone in this house will do what they can, or they can leave! "
Phoebe had had enough. Despite the warning look on Cole's face, she was up and in Piper's face..
" What is wrong with you?! Are you not listening to all of this?! Your husband has fathered a child with your sister! And from the looks of the situation, they had a pretty swell time doing it! What if he falls for her, Piper? Huh? What then? "
Piper frowned. Phoebe wouldn't talk to Prue like this...
" I'm glad for them! And I hope they did have a wonderful time and continue to do so! "
" Piper! " Leo yelled, " I love you! "
Piper eyed him calmly, and then turned away. She then threw a parting remark over her shoulder...
" That didn't save Prue, did it? "
There was silence as Piper walked away...
*****
Cole laid back on the bed, watching a raging Phoebe pace the bedroom. Eric was dividing his time between a distraught Leo and Paige, while an oblivious Piper insisted on making a celebration dinner.
"....Like to slap the taste right out of her mouth! Tell ME To like it or leave?! I need to get the hoe out of the shed and pry her head out of her....! "
" Sweetie? " Cole interrupted, " You're giving me a migraine and wearing a hole in Gram's persian rug. "
Phoebe stopped, then swiped at the tears rolling down her cheeks. " What are we going to do? How do we make this right? "
Cole sighed, " She has kept her grief bottled up for too long, and it's being to show. Unless we can find the catalyst, the key to help her release it, she's going to have a total breakdown. "
" Great. That's just great. " Phoebe moaned, slumping down next to Cole on the bed, " I still say I slap the whilte off of her. "
Cole chuckled, " Let's get ready to rumble? Nah, you aren't violent, and personally, I think Piper can take you. "
" Oh yeah? " Phoebe growled in mock anger, " You forget, I fight dirty. "
Before he could defend himself, Phoebe had reduced him to laughing tears...
" Aw, look at that. " She mocked, lightly, " The mighty Belthazor is ticklish! "
A minor wrestling match ensued, and soon moved into more passionate and tantilizing actvities; which were interrupted by Eric shimmer into the room..
" Eric! " Cole yelled, " We use doors! "
" Yeah, yeah...whatever. You need to listen up. You, too. " Eric said, nodding at Phoebe. " We need to be hyper-vigilant. "
He proceeded to tell them about his recon, and his encounter with Tempus.
Phoebe gasped in fright, " The Source is going to take the baby? How do we ward him off for the next seven and one half months? "
Cole and Eric exchanged a veiled look and then smiled; It wasn't an all together pleasant smile, either.
" Paradise? " Eric murmured? "
" Paradise. " Cole said, agreeing.
" Paradise? " Phoebe asked, confused, " And you two can just stop with the looks! It's like you have your own private language. What's paradise?! "
And Cole proceeded to tell her.
" The Source is...he can be a bit testy. And paranoid. More and more good demons are becoming outcasts, and need a place where they can be safe. That's where we come in. "
Eric picked up the tale. " About 3 years ago, Cole and I found an island in the Pacific. Not very big, but it's gorgeous! White sand, a pretty heavy duty forest, and some dilapidated fishing shacks, probably left over from before the last War. The most intriguing thing about it was that it was the center point of a Nexus. Great magical energy, which could be harnessed if one was skilled enough to do so. "
" And we were. " Cole interjected. "
" Indeed we were. Anyhow, we watched for awhile, saw it was totally deserted, and moved in. A little paint, some carpentry work, and loads of magic later...we have us a Paradise. Shielded with magical charms known only to the two of us, it now has a well and generator, two very comfortable cottages, and a big hammock stretched between two palm trees. "
" The pont is, Phoebe, it's isolated and it's safe. As long as Eric and I are both there to work the incantations when needed, it's the perfect hiding spot. For all of us. "
Phoebe eyed them both and thought for a moment; then she shook her head.
" It sound wonderful, but we can't take a pregnant woman into hiding on a deserted island. She needs medical care, and sooner or later, that baby is going to want to come out. "
" Helllooo? " Eric sing-songed, waving his hand, " Fully trained M.D. right here. Already have an infirmary set up, and Cole and I can shimmer back and forth to get supplies when ever we need to. Once we're there, one of us has to physically be on the island at all times for the magical shield to be effective. I delivered lots of babies, Phoebe, and some in much worse place than Ericville. "
Cole snorted, " You wish. It's Coleland. "
" Ericville. "
" Coleland! "
" Ericville! "
" You two are both getting vanquished if you don't knock it off! " Phoebe shrilled, thne shook her head, again. " It sounds lovely, and we'll definitely keep it on mind, but I think it might be..."
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Post by alchemystik32 on Mar 5, 2005 12:45:53 GMT -5
( 2nd half of the chapter. )
She couldn't get the last word out before an explosion rocked the house, followed by Piper's yell...
" DEMONS! "
Eric was out of the room in an instant, closely followed by Phoebe and Cole. In the upper hallway, Piper was busy blowing up a pair of Creepers, while Paige was redirecting energy balls being thrown by a trio of Power Brokers.
" Damn. " Eric muttered, " They sent a nice selection, didn't they? "
Cole didn't answer, busy sending two of the Power Brokers to the Waste Land, while Phoebe levitating and kicked an encroaching Darklighter into Piper's kill zone.
" Anyone with Whitelighter blood, fall in behind me! " Cole yelled over the din, then ducked as Eric sent a fireball over his head. " Hey! "
" Oh, shut up, I wasn't even close! " Eric yelled back, " Piper get that Darklighter! Paige, get out of the way, dear, you're what they're after! "
But Leo had already pulled Paige out of the line of fire, and had spun around to nail the remaining Power Broker with a right to the jaw, allowing Piper to blow him up.
" Ouch! " Phoebe yelped as two scavenger demons grabbed her ankles, pulling her off the third.
" Move, sweetie, give me a clear shot! " Cole yelled, as Piper and Paige managed to vanquish the remaining Creepers.
Phoebe rolled out of the way, and Eric and Cole cleaned up the remaining attackers with a spectacular display of fire power. When all was quiet, Leo began healing the minor wounds inflicted in the ruckus, while the shell-shocked Charmed Ones looked at Cole and Eric for an explanation.
" Get packed. " Cole said in a firm voice that brooked no argument, " We're going on vacation. "
*****
There was no time for protests or debate, and the family knew it. Paige and her unborn child were in danger, and with seven and a half long months to go, everyone knew that there was no way they could stay in the house and try to live their lives normally. Piper made hasty plans with a few friends to tend to P3, while Darryl and Shelia agreed to look after the house. Within a few hours, Cole and Eric were ferrying luggage to the island, while the sisters shared a quiet moment together...
Piper chattered on happily, making Phoebe want to slap her. Who was this person sitting next to her wearing Piper's face? Because the Piper she knew would've faced the Elders, daring them to break up their greatest weapon against evil. And the Source? Piper would've taken him on single-handedly, but one thing HER Piper would not have done was given her husband such a hard time. Nor would she have been so off-handed about the whole situation. Cole was right, Piper was breaking down, and for now Phoebe was helpless to prevent it.
" I can't believe all of this is happening. " A pale and ill-looking Paige said softly, " It's like a dream on an endless loop; no matter how hard I try, I can't wake up. "
Phoebe patted Paige's cold hand, finally breaking in on Piper's babbling.
" Can you just shut UP for 5 minutes?! "
Piper blinked, then screwed up her face, " What's wrong with you? We're going to a lovely warm place for a while, where we'll all be safe and together. Why shouldn't I be happy? "
" Because your husband did you sister, knocked her up, and you seem to think that was just hunky dory! " Phoebe yelled.
Something of the real Piper shifted within the warm brown eyes, and the voice that retorted had a definite edge to it..
" Why do you always have to look at the negative side? We did..I did what needed to be done to save our family and keep the Power Of Three alive! Besides, Leo isn't such a great gift; he didn't save Prue did he? "
" He tried, Piper! He just can't HEAL THE DEAD! Prue's DEAD, and all the denial in the world isn't going to change that! " Phoebe yelled, her face read with fury.
A cold anger filled Piper's face, and she unleashed a torrent of abuse on Phoebe..
" Like you care! You took Prue for granted, fought with her all the time, and haven't even GRIEVED for her! You care more about Paige and Leo than you do Prue! Leo should have healed her instead of me! In fact, if you hadn't been off trying to save that demon, WE could've used the Power of Three against Shax and won! It's just as much YOUR fault as Leo's! "
" Piper..." Phoebe whispered, cut to the quick. Although Piper had only voiced the truth, she couldn't know that Phoebe's own sense of guilt over Prue's death kept her awake many a night. The look of hatred in Piper's eyes was more than she could bare, and her eyes filled with tears. But before either one of then could continue, Paige was up and running towards the bathroom, a hand over her mouth.
" Morning sickness. " Piper said calmly, as if the ugly exchange between them had never happened. " I'll brew a potion, you go hold her head. "
With that, Piper was on her way to the kitchen, leaving a stunned Phoebe looking after her.
And, another small piece of Piper broke away, leaving her even less in touch with reality...
*****
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Post by CanadianHalliwell on Mar 5, 2005 17:41:19 GMT -5
This is like a favorite book that you can't put down. Except that I have to wait for updates........
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Post by Assassin Witch on Mar 6, 2005 2:12:52 GMT -5
MY GOD!
Ericville Coleland HAHA!! *falls over laughing*
Thank you for the "Phoebe' s fault" part. And people wonder why I hate her soooooooo much.
Oh, and ur so right, CH, can't put down...need more...*eyes go blank.*
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Post by alchemystik32 on Mar 12, 2005 17:23:44 GMT -5
Thank you, again, for making a story of mine Story Of The Week. Heiress Of Magic Almost Paradise By: Alchemystik32 ***** The island was indeed a pleasant surprise... " Oh my God! " Phoebe squealed, looking around in delight, " This is awesome! " "Amen! " Leo agreed, looking hopefully at Piper; but, as had become the norm recently, she ignored him. Instead, she had an arm around an alarmingly pale Paige, trying to interest her in the beauty surrounding them. " Isn't it beautiful, Paige? It's so warm, that water is just crystal clear, and look at the cottages! Like something out of a fairytale! " Paige nodded listlessly, trying to smile. The truth was, she was nauseated beyond belief, dizzy and definitely out of sorts. Eric was quick to notice and cut the oohing and ahhing to a minimal. " Let's get Paige settled, she's looking a bit done in. How are we dividing up? " He ask Cole. Cole thought for a moment and then turned to Phoebe, " Do you want to stay by Paige or would you be more comfortable with Piper? " Phoebe glanced at Piper, and quickly chose Paige. Piper's comments had hurt, and until she could come up to a solution to the dilemma it was best to put some distance between them. Besides, Paige needed some coddling and support right now. " Each cottage has 2 bedrooms, with private baths. " Eric explained. " I usually use the one on the right, and I'd be happy to have Leo & Piper stay with me. Paige and Phoebe can stay with Cole at his cottage. Is that ok with everyone. " Everyone agreed; Except Piper. " I don't want Leo with me! " She said, her jaw set. " He needs to be with Paige. " Leo was hurt, but tried to reason with her; " Piper, I want to be with you. I love you. " But Piper turned her back on him appealing to Cole and Eric... " Just keep him away from me. I don't want him near me! " Leo opened his mouth, only to close it abruptly after a warning look from Cole. " Ok, Piper, we'll keep him away. Don't worry. " Eric told her gently, placing a careful hand on the too thin shoulders... " She's so fragile. " He whispered to Cole, " Let's not upset her right now. I'll let her use the second bedroom at my place; keep an eye on her. She'll be ok. " Cole nodded, then steered a protesting Leo to one side. Phoebe and Paige couldn't hear what was said, but Leo eventually made his way back over to their sides, a grim expression on his tired face. Paige glanced at him quickly, and then looked away. He looked as fragile as Piper, and she put a tentative hand on his wrist to show him comfort and support. Wordlessly, he entwined his fingers within hers, pulling her against him. Phoebe frowned, and opened her mouth to complain, but was hastened aside by Cole. " I know what you're going to say. " He began, putting a hand across her mouth, " Now listen up, and don't flap those very kissable lips until I'm done. " " Piper is not in very good shape right now, and the best thing for her is to let her have her way. Eric is a doctor, and a damn good one, too. He'll look after her, make sure she eats and sleeps well. Let Leo and Paige spend some time together...." " No! " Phoebe hissed, " He's Piper's husband, not Paige's! I will not...." Cole sighed, and covered her mouth again, " I know who's husband he is, and so does he; and Paige is aware of it too. But you've gotta face a few facts here. They had a night of passion, and it's change them and their relationship with each other. They're having a baby. Together. When the time is right, Leo will explain to Paige that she will have to give the baby up very soon after birth. Let them have this bond, this closeness...they'll need each other's strength when the time comes. They may not be IN love with each other, but they do love each other. Leo is unable to help the woman he IS in love with right now, and Paige has been through the wringer in the past two months. Leave them alone, their honor will keep them from making any mistakes they may regret later. " Phoebe reluctantly agreed. Cole's assessment of the situation made sense, and as much as she wanted her older sister well and happy again, perhaps it was best to just take life one day at a time. For now. " Ok. But I'm not too keen on the idea of them sharing a bed. " Phoebe said. Cole grinned and wiggled his eyebrows at her, " Ok. You sleep with Paige and I'LL sleep with Leo. " Phoebe smiled back and pouted, " Welllll...I suppose we'll just let well enough alone for now. But..." She got no further as Cole swept her into his arms and kissed her silent. " Are you through wooing over there?! " Eric called. " Jealous? " Cole called back, smiling down into Phoebe's shining face. " Yes! Dumb question, Turner! Let's get our little mama out of the sun before she falls down. " Phoebe looked a Paige, leaning against Leo's shoulder, and ran over to her, " Oh, sweetie, I'm sorry! Eric's right, let's get you inside. " Paige smiled wanly, and linked hands with Phoebe. Together, they made their way into the cottage, and were both pleasantly surprised at what they saw.
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Post by alchemystik32 on Mar 12, 2005 17:27:15 GMT -5
2nd half of the chapter...
The cottage was sparkling clean, the main room open and airy, with a huge picture window and a fireplace opened into a compact but complete kitchen. Off to the side, a laundry room with a half bath led out to the back deck.
The main room was paneled in pine and held an array of comfortable furniture in pale blues and greens. Phoebe's eyes lit up as she spotted a VCR hooked up to the large T.V, with a nice selection of VHS tapes tucked on the bottom shelf of the entertainment unit.
" Wow, will you look at this place? " She cooed.
" I know, not bad for a demon, huh? " Paige teased, and then swayed slightly. Phoebe grabbed a hold of her arm only to have Paige shake her off and bolt for the downstairs bathroom.
Leo came in, placing a few suitcases against the couch.
" Where's Paige? " He asked, curiously, and Phoebe gestured towards the sound of retching.
Leo nodded, heading towards the kitchen as Cole came in with the last of Phoebe's things.
" Why the look? " He asked.
" Paige is awfully sick. " Phoebe said, " I'm worried. Piper was going to brew her a potion, but we had to leave, so..."
Cooe placed an arm around Phoebe's shoulders, " Morning sickness sounds bad, but it doesn't last long. I'm sure Eric will do whatever he can to make Paige comfortable, but in the meantime, let's take our stuff upstairs. We'll get Paige's room ready for her. "
Phoebe nodded, following him up the uncarpeted pine stairs. The whole cottage was so light and airy, the views utterly amazing. Someone, being exiled from San Fran wasn't looking too bad.
Phoebe expressed pleasure at the large cool, room she and Cole would share, and moved on to the smaller bedroom. A queen sized bed, covered in pale green, a white wicker dresser, mirror and rocker, white painted wodden shutters over the two windows and thick towels in the small put spotless bath all met with Phoebe's approval. Her sister would be comfortable in here, and it was only across the hall from where she would be. She deliberately ignored the fact that Leo would be spending time in here with a woman who was not his wife.
" But it's my baby, too, Phoebe. " Leo said quietly behind her, making her spin around.
" Leo! Stop sneaking up on me. "
" I didn't. " He said mildly, moving past her to place Paige's overnight bag in the bathroom for her, " You were just lost in thought. "
" I'm sorry. " Phoebe said, sincerely, " I'm just having a problem with you sleeping with the wrong sister. "
Leo sighed, and turned to face her, " I love Piper, Phoebe. With everything I have and everything I am. But...something happened that night with Paige; Something wonderful. I felt complete for the first time. Maybe the whitelighter in us both helped us connect on a deeper more intimate level, I don't know. All I do know is, I love Paige, too, and I'm going to be with her every step of the way. The best thing I can do for Piper right now is to watch over her, and wait. "
Phoebe's eyes filled with tears. Life could be so unfair at times; Paige hadn't asked for any of this, and either had Leo. They both could have chosen a different path, but instead sacrificed themselves for what they believed was right. And Piper...
Prue and Phoebe had had a distinct love/hate relationship. On one level, they loved each other dearly, and would have fought anyone who had tried to hurt the other. On the other hand, Phoebe had always felt that Prue was too judgmental, while Prue thought Phoebe was irresponsible and unfocused. It pained Phoebe to think that Prue died without knowing just how special she had been to her little sister, and what a void her death had left in Phoebe's life.
And her heart. She was determined that Paige know how important she was to the family, and to her sisters.
Piper and Prue had a magical relationship. Although they had had their share of sibling rivalry, they had a deep bond. They admired each other, and respected each other. Prue had mothered them both after their own mother had died at a young age. Grams had been great, but Piper and later Phoebe had turned to Prue for everything from dating advice to PMS. She had always been there for them, and the realization that she wouldn't be again had been very difficult to deal with.
In Piper's case, it had become more than difficult, it had become impossible. She couldn't or wouldn't aceept that Prue's tragic death had been meant to be. That nothing could have been done to prevent it. In the world of magic, everything happened for a reason, and as unpleasant as it may be to face, Prue's death was part of a greater plan. They just didn't quite know what it was.
Leo waited quietly as Phoebe processed some of the new revelations. It was never easy to look inside yourself, nor was it easy to reach a degree of acceptance about certain aspects of life. Some things just happened, without rhyme or reason; the key was place everyting in it's proper prospective, and learn from it.
*****
Outside, Eric and Cole were sharing a moment...
" What? " Eric asked, looking around nervously, " Here? NOW?! "
Cole nodded, " Yep. You know perfectly well that your little soiree with Tempus was going to be noticed. "
Eric shuffled his feet, looking embarrassed. Cole had chewed him up one side and down the other, but had quickly calmed down, becoming the dispassionate demon he knew and barely tolerated.
" Ok. So, now what? " Eric asked, watching the waves lap gently at the white sands.
Cole looked out at the idyllic scene, too. They were being watched, but so far the charms were holding. The area where they were staying was as magically protected as ever, and not even the Source could penetrate their defenses.
Yet.
" We watch and we wait. We behave normally, we keep our heads, and we do not, under any circumstances upset the guests. Got it? "
" Got it. " Eric said. " It's kinda sad, isn't it? "
Cole nodded, " In a way. You just have to remember that all beauty is deceptive, and nothing is ever the way it seems. "
" Even Paradise. "
Cole nodded, handing Eric a scroll of parchment.
" Even Paradise. Let's go. "
*****
From the upstairs window, in the comfortable room Eric had provided for her, Piper watched...and waited.
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Post by alchemystik32 on Mar 20, 2005 1:48:36 GMT -5
Heiress Of Magic
Moonlight Undoes Her
By: Alchemystik32
*****
Phoebe paced the floor of the room she shared with Cole, pausing to press her ear against the wall separating their room from Paige's.
" What in the name of all that's good and decent are you doing? " Cole said with an eye roll and a wry smile, as he propped himself up in bed with another pillow.
Phoebe made a shushing gesture with her hand, straining to hear what was going on next door. Finally she blew out an exasperated breath and stomped back to the bed, pausing to glare down at Cole.
" You're getting way too much enjoyment out of this! " She said, and then whooped as he reached up and pulled her down next to him.
" Listen up, Sweet Pea. They're talking, ok? There are no squeaking springs, or other suspicious noises. The way Paige is looking, I doubt if he'd dare. Not that he would dare, but...you know. Besides, you made your point earlier. "
Phoebe nodded, feeling ashamed of her earlier outburst. She hadn't meant to be quite so vocal about her displeasure over the proposed sleeping arrangements...
" But...you can sleep down here on the couch! Why do you need to be with Paige?! "
" Because I WANT him with me! " Paige had yelled, getting up from the sofa, and confronting a startled Phoebe.
" Look, none of us ask for this, and we're all doing the best we can, but I'm carrying a magical child, and have no clue whatsoever! I'm scared, Phoebe, and Leo knows that. I want him nearby, and he doesn't mind; After all, as much as you want to deny it, it's his baby too! "
Paige had glared at her stunned older sister, and then turned around and marched up the stairs without a backward glance.
Cole and Leo had exchanged one swift but amused glance, and then tried to reassure a stricken Phoebe.
" I understand how you feel, Phoebe. " Leo told her earnestly, " But Paige is right. We didn't plan this, but it happened and we have to deal with it. Until we can find a way to help Piper, I need to stay away from her; I just upset her. Think about Paige, and the baby. Giving it up will be difficult, but if we have this time right now, maybe I can make it a little easier when it happens. "
Phoebe shook her head, " I'm trying to understand, Leo, but Piper is your wife! How can you even think about another woman?! "
Leo's face hardened, and there was a definite bite to his tone of voice. " My wife has told me she hates me. She wants nothing to do with me. How do you think that makes me feel? Everyone is worried about Piper's feelings and Paige's feeling, but what about me? Right now, Paige needs me, and Paige cares about me, so if you two will excuse me, I'm going upstairs and try to get some rest. With Paige. "
As Leo headed up the stairs, Phoebe had turned to Cole, " Can't you do something?! "
" I am. " Cole answered, shutting off the lights and herding Phoebe towards the staircase. " I'm going to bed, and I'm going to tell you this for the last time. Stop making judgments, it's not your place. Let them do what they can to nuture their unborn child, and we'll do our best to protect them while they do so. Now, get your shapely fanny up those stairs before I go all demonic on it. "
*****
Phoebe sighed, and then slide under the covers, snuggling up to Cole, " Ok, you're right. Heck, you're All right. But, I don't have to like it. "
Cole chuckled and reached over to turn off the light. " No, you don't have to like it, you just have to keep your opinions to yourself. "
" Why cows fly, Mr. Turner. " Phoebe answered.
" Go to sleep. " Cole said, " And if you get up to check on them again, I'm going to tie you to the bed. "
" Promise? "
*****
No romance was taking place in the room next door. Leo paced the floor as Paige, whiter than ever, finally opened the bathroom door.
" Are you ok? " He asked, " What can I do? "
" Nothing. " Paige answered, rubbing her bare arms. The night air was cool, and the oversized t-shirt she was wearing afforded little warmth. " Eric said it would pass in another month or so. "
Leo nodded, and then moved around the room, pulling shades, adding an extra blanket to the bed. Paige noted his jerky movements and grinned in spite of her discomfort. " Why so nervous? We've slept together before. "
Leo spun around, startled, then gave her a grin, " If my memory serves me right, the last time we shared a bed we didn't do much sleeping.
A delicious blush of pink crept up Paige's pale face, making Leo laugh, and Paige snort.
" Fine, touche'. " She grumbled, climbing into bed, " Well? "
" Are you sure you're ok with this? " Leo asked, quietly, serious again. " I can sleep downstairs. "
Paige thought for a moment, and then saw the pain in his face. No one had ever taken the time to realize that Leo's life had been turned upside down, too. He had been a quiet presence through all of this, even weathering Piper's outbursts with stoic calm. She smiled at him and flipped back the covers on the other side of the bed.
" C'mon, my feet are cold, my boobs hurt, I have a headache, and my stomach has climbed up to the top of my head. Sound like fun? "
Leo smiled back and turned out the light, sliding in next to her, " You sweet talker, you. Come here. "
Paige moved closer, and Leo reached out, arranging her head comfortably on his chest. She sighed, finally daring to relax.
" Good night, Paige. "
" Night...and, thanks. "
" No. Thank YOU. "
*****
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Post by alchemystik32 on Mar 20, 2005 1:52:29 GMT -5
( 2nd Half )
*****
Outside on the beach drenched in moonlight, the sand shifted...
And upstairs at Eric's cottage, a sleeping Piper tossed and turned, caught in the grips of a nightmare.
Leo..in bed with another woman..
Piper moaned, a stab of pain touching her heart...
She envied that woman, even though it was just a dream..
*****
Outside, the shifting sand rose up then fell away, revealing a figure who looked like Piper.
Dressed in green, it looked at Paige's window, where the light had just gone out, and hissed softly..
Green eyes glinted with envy and hate, and it stood staring at the window for a few moments. Finally, it turned and walked into the heavy cover of palm trees disappearing from sight.
*****
The next morning Cole and Eric left their respective cottages at dawn, making their way to the center of a small clearing. There, a rustic old shed held the tools they needed to work the magic that protected the island.
Eric busied himself with the various ingredients needed as Cole intoned the protection spells. Finally satisfied that they had ensured a measure of security, the settled themselves down on the crates they used as chairs.
" So? Anything new? " Eric asked.
Cole shrugged, " You felt the same thing I did last night, right? "
Eric nodded, " I felt a small disturbance, but it didn't register as a threat. What about the other thing? "
" It's quiet right now. Could be that it's just coming and going, monitoring what we're up to. "
Eric agreed, and then listened with amusment as Cole described Phoebe's fears.
" Hey, at least they don't have to worry about getting Paige pregnant. "
Cole smirked, " Yeah, say that to Phoebe. "
" Ha! " Eric said, lifting a brow, " I'm not suicidal, thank you very much. You going today, or am I? "
" I'll do it. You got a list for me? "
" Of course, and follow it this time, will ya? "
" Don't bitch, it's not attractive. "
Eric made a face, and then turned the conversation towards practical matters.
" I'll need to examine Paige soon, so don't forget my medical kit. Oh, and, get these prescriptions filled for her, too. Poor little thing can't afford to lose too much weight, so I need to have something on hand if the nausea and vomiting get's any worse. "
Cole snickered, " Someone's smitten. "
" Am not. "
" Oh yes. Very smitten. "
" You suck. Let's go. "
*****
The sisters spent a pleasant day on the beach, while Leo kept watch a safe distance away. Piper was pale and slightly distracted, but seemed more at ease than at home. The three fell into an easy discussion about the baby...
" I wish I knew if it was a girl. " Paige fretted, while Piper patted her hand.
" Don't worry, we Halliwell women mostly have daughters. It's been awhile since a boy was born into our line. Right, Phoebe? "
Phoebe nodded, and then gently touched Paige's stomach.
" Trying to get a premonition off something the size of a comma? " Paige teased.
" Shush. " Phoebe told her, closing her eyes. In a moment, she opened them and smiled.
" It's a girl, I saw her. With your dark hair and Leo's eyes. "
Paige sighed, relieved to confirm her suspicions.
" What are you going to name her? " Piper asked, curious. " Should we start looking up more P names? "
Paige smiled and shook her head, " I kinda want to name her after my parents. My adoptive parents. My Mom's name was Leigh and my Dad was Les, so I thought of putting the two together. "
" Leighles? " Phoebe asked, and then shrugged, " It's your kid. "
Piper and Paige howled with mirth, as Phoebe sniffed in mock injury.
" No, not Leighles! " Paige said, still laughing. " Leslie. Leslie Patricia. How's that? "
Piper said the names slowly, and then smiled, " I love it! Will she be a Matthews? Or a Halliwell? "
" Or a Wyatt? " Phoebe said, quietly.
Piper compressed her lips into a thin line, and glared at Leo watching from a safe distance away. " Never. " She said, flatly, " He doesn't deserve that honor. "
Phoebe bit her lip, but Paige bridled under Piper's scornful tone, " That's not fair, Piper, and you know it! Leo is a good man, a kind man. He deserves that, and more! "
Piper opened her mouth to retort, but stopped as Eric approached them.
" Sorry to break this up, but Cole's back. I'd like to check you out, Paige, make sure everything is ok. "
Paige grimaced, but got up, turning to bid her sisters goodbye.
" Do you want me to come with you, sweetie? " Phoebe asked, but Paige, still angry at Piper's remark about Leo shook her head. " No thanks, I'll ask Leo. He has a right to be there. "
Head held high, she walked over to Leo, and soon the two of them were following Eric hand-in-hand.
Neither Phoebe nor Piper had anything else left to say.
*****
" Ok? " Eric said, looking over Paige's bent and sheet clad legs.
" Just wonderful. " She retorted, and then winked at a grinning Leo who stood next to the folding table, holding her hand.
" Almost done. " Eric said, " Everything looks fine from here. "
Leo swallowed a snicker. He couldn't help but warm up to Eric, who was goofy, endearing, and an excellent doctor.
" There we are, All done! Get yourself situated, and we'll talk in the living room. "
He exited as Leo helped Paige up, and discreetly left her to dress. In a few minutes she joined them, sitting down next to Leo.
" Ok, everything seems to be fine. You're about 8 weeks along, so the unpleasant stuff should be over soon. I've got some vitamin pills for you, and a prescription for an anti-nausea drug if you need it. Get as much rest as you need, drink plenty of fluids, take walks, and come see me if you have any questions or problems. " Eric said, briskly, the consummate professional. He handed Paige her vitamins and the anti-nausea pills, cautioning her to use them only if absolutely necessary.
" When will the baby be here? " Paige asked, and Eric began to calcualte, using the information they supplied him with.
" Looks like the end of January or the beginning of February, give or take a few days. Babies don't conform to our formulas, you know. "
" Speaking of formulas, and so forth, how do we get what we'll need for her? " Leo asked.
" Her? " Eric said with a smile, " Are you sure? "
Paige explained about Phoebe's premontion, and Eric accepted it without question. Like Cole, he respected the Charmed Ones, and knew that they were seldom wrong when it came to their powers.
" You guys have to stay here. " He told them, gently, because Paige looked upset about not being able to pick out things for her baby. " You're safest here on the island, and we need to keep you safe. Especially you, Paige. "
Paige nodded, disappointed, but she knew Eric was right. After a few more pleasantries, Paige and Leo left.
Eric looked around, cautiously, and seeing himself alone, began to orb out of the cottage. In that split second, Phoebe knocked once and let herself in, carrying a basket of laundry.
" Hey Eric, I know you don't have a washer and dryer here so...Oh My GOD! "
Eric fell out of his orb, and onto the floor.
" Oh. Hello, Phoebe.... "
*****
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Wicca
Familiar
Here's laughing at you.
Posts: 173
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Post by Wicca on Mar 20, 2005 14:05:59 GMT -5
I've been following this all along, sorry I haven't commented before. Wow, this is one of the BEST stories I've ever read! I love everything about it, and I can't wait for more!! Omg, did Eric just orb? Somebody pinch me, please! How in the world did that happen? (ok, I know these are stupid rhetorical questions, but I'm in shock!) I'm dying to read the next update! PS: It would be really awesome if you could post this fic at Charmed's Designation! The link is in my sig, and there are a lot of fan fiction lovers there. I'm sure you'd get nothing but glowing reviews!
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Post by CanadianHalliwell on Mar 21, 2005 13:24:07 GMT -5
Eric orbing.... oh my gawd!!! This was absolutely fanfictastic!! I agree with Wiccawitch, about you posting on Charmed Designation. I was going to suggest it to you as well. It would definitely improve your readership!!
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Post by hawk55 on Mar 22, 2005 16:37:38 GMT -5
This story is simply the best! Please continue! I can hardly wait to see what happens next.
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Post by alchemystik32 on Mar 26, 2005 11:24:09 GMT -5
~* Heiress Of Magic *~
Revelations
By: Alchemystik32
*****
Eric scrambed to his feet, and then ducked to avoided a levitating Phoebe's foot.
" Whoa! I can explain! " Eric said, then yelped as Phoebe's fist connected with his jaw.
" Explain what, you...you...murderer! " Phoebe screamed, taking another flying leap at Eric's head.
" Murderer?! Ow! Quit it! I didn't...will you please not hit THERE?! I hate to do this..." Eric finally gasped, running a finger along her cheek...
Phoebe felt as if her bones had turned to water; she wanted to fight, but she couldn't. She felt her strength slipping away, and as she pitched forward, Eric caught her, and placed her gently on the couch.
" You're fine, just..er..restrained for the moment. If you promise to stop biting, kicking and grabbing tender areas of my anatomy, I'll let you up. Ok? "
Phoebe tried to glare at the handsome face looking at her so earnestly, but just gave a resigned nod. With powers like Eric had just displayed, she was helpless against him; at least while she was alone.
She needed to placate him, talk her way out of this situation, and then escape and find her sisters. So far, no demon had lived to gloat about beating the Charmed Ones.
Eric brushed a light finger over her head, and Phoebe bolted upright on the sofa.
" You bastard! You killed a whitelighter! "
" I did? " Eric said, a confused look on his face, " When? How? Did I have a good time? "
Phoebe snorted, a look of outrage on her face, " Demons don't ORB unless they've killed a whiltelighter and taken the power! I'm not stupid! "
Eric smothered a grin. Now was not the time to irritate this slender spitfire. Might as well come clean.
" I know exactly how demons gain orbing powers, Phoebe. ALL whitelighters, no matter what level they are know that. I should know, I'm a whitelighter, too. "
Phoebe's eyes widened, and her jaw dropped. A whitelighter?! A DEMON Whitelighter??
" Wow! I've heard of witch/whitelighters, but never demon/whitelighters! "
Eric laughed, and relaxed. The worst was over, the secret was out. Now, it was up to him to convince Phoebe to keep his secret.
" I'm no demon, I'm a Guardian. We're kinda like whitelighter with attitude; or Elder Lite. Believe it or not, even the good side has their spies, as it can be necessary to sometimes infiltrate the other side. That's what my section does; we can be witches, warlocks...even demons. We can acquire and use the powers of many different types of magical creatures. We can blend in well in any world. "
Phoebe just sat there, stunned. " Oh wow. This is..this is just too much. Why are you here? Is Cole working with you on something? "
A shadow passed over Eric's face, " Cole doesn't know, Phoebe, and he can't find out. To him, I'm just another junior demon, helping out an upper level demon who just happens to be my best friend. If he knew, he couldn't hide his thoughts well enough; the Source would know. "
Phoebe nodded, still in shock. A thousand questions rocketed around her head, but Eric held up his hand.
" Let me give you the condensed version. What Cole probably told you was true..well, most of it. I had a woman I loved very much; a kind woman, very special. So special that she was in line to be a whitelighter, eventually. Well, the Source went through a period of trying to kill off potential whitelighters, and she was targeted. I did try to make a pact with the demonic world, offering myself in her place, but you know as well as I do that you can't trust a demon. She was killed and I was recruited. "
Phoebe nodded. Except for Cole, Eric was absolutely right. You couldn't trust a demon.
" Anyhow, the Powers that Be obviously saw a hell of a lot more good in me than I did, and kinda intervened. In a sneaky kind of way, actually. The made me a Guardian, let the other side think they had acquired a new demon, and put me to work on finding out what had happened to the previous Heriess; and help them find and protect the next one. "
" Is that what you do? " Phoebe asked, curiously. " You act as spies? "
Eric smiled, " One of our many talents. We also help out whitelighters who have special charges, ones who have to be protected at all costs. "
" Like us? " Phoebe questioned, her heightened mental senses tingling.
Eric sighed; What the hell, might as well give it all up. This was a witch with the gift of premonitions, and she was in line to receive even more specialized powers in due time. She would know in an instant that he was trying to evade her direct question.
" Yeah, like you and your sisters. "
Phoebe eyed him seriously, " In the past, I've struggled with..let's just say a darker side of myself. Cole told me that evil can be seductive, that it can appear to be a lot less dangerous than it is. "
" That demon is too smart for his own good. " Eric muttered.
Phoebe grinned, " Yes he is. Anyhow, I fought my way out of it numerous times, with alot of help from my sisters, but..."
" You're scared that the day will come that you won't be able to fight it? " Eric asked gently.
Phoebe nodded, her face miserable, " Yes. And, there are times that Cole does something that I know skirts the laws, but...it's exciting at the same time. I'm scared that I'll...forget the difference between good and evil some day. "
" Listen to me. " Eric said, urgently, hold Phoebe's hands in his, " You and your sisters are remarkable women, you have inner strength as well as magical powers. Your sisters may have helped you, but it was YOUR inner strength that prevail, Phoebe. I know how tough it's been, and how hard you've fought. But, you've won, and you'll continue to win. I guarantee it. "
" Yeah? How do you know so much? "
Eric smiled, giving the small hands a quick squeeze; " I know because I've watched over you for a long time. In those bad times, I've been there, Phoebe. I've been your Guardian. "
*****
Phoebe left the cottage a short time later, her laundry forgotten, her head still reeling from Eric's revelations.
Eric had helped Leo, always unknown, always in the background, since the sisters had received their powers. He was here specifically to guard Paige and the unborn Heiress; and he was hoping that his friendship with Cole would lead him to solve the mystery of the last Heiress.
She had promised him, swore on her sister's, mother's grandmother's souls not to breathe a word of what she knew to anyone.
But...
C'mon! Girls LOVED good gossip!
*****
" You're kidding, right? " An incredulous Paige asked, as she paced the beach with her older sister.
" I kid you not. " Phoebe assured her, as they stopped in the shade of the palm trees that led into the forest.
" That explains something I've been wondering about. " Paige mused, and then told Phoebe about the weird feeling she got whenever Cole was close to her. How her abdomen tightened, and she felt herself being propelled away from Cole's presence.
" It's not painful, not really, it just feels like the baby is a little frightened and is trying to protect herself. She hasn't reacted that way with Eric, even when he was examining me, and I thought it was because he was a doctor. That the baby knew he was ok in that way. But now? She knew he wasn't a demon. "
" Do you really think she's that aware already? " Phoebe asked, awed. What a powerful child she would be!
Paige nodded, " Oh yes, she's aware. I get flashes of feelings. Like right now? She doesn't like it here, she feels threatened. "
" Oh. Ok, let's move then. We don't want my widdy baby niece to be frightened! "
Paige made a face, rubbing her stomach...
" For the record she's not too fond of that, either. "
Both sisters giggled, and linked arms, moving back into the sunshine.
Just as two dark eyes gleaming with interest and evil peered through the shelter of trees, watching the girls retreat.
" A powerful child, indeed...."
*****
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Post by Charmed Force on Mar 26, 2005 12:43:00 GMT -5
haha all girls DO love good gossip!!
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Post by jennielouises on Mar 26, 2005 21:22:50 GMT -5
wow this is brilliant! ;D cant wait to hear more
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Post by CanadianHalliwell on Mar 27, 2005 22:22:31 GMT -5
That was too short...but I understand that creative juices can not be forced. So hurry up and update soon!
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Wicca
Familiar
Here's laughing at you.
Posts: 173
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Post by Wicca on Mar 31, 2005 16:26:22 GMT -5
I agree with CanadianHalliwell! lol Oh my goodness, a Guardian? Well, that certainly explains a lot. I think that's so cool, I love spies hehe And I love how powerful this baby is, and will be. I've always thought that if Paige had kids, hers would be the most powerful!
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Post by alchemystik32 on Apr 1, 2005 22:11:04 GMT -5
~* Heiress Of Magic *~
Revelations Part II
By: Alchemystik32
*****
The days passed slowly and peacefully, and then turned into months. The sisters tended to spend the mornings together on the beach, watched over by Leo, who stayed as near Paige as he could without inviting Piper's wrath. In the afternoon while Paige rested, Phoebe and Cole would wander off for some quality time alone together, ignoring Eric's leers and Paige's grins. In the evening, they would watch a movie, or they would all gather on the beach, build a fire, and talk, play games, or just be together. It appeared idyllic until one took a closer look at the underlying tensions.
The stalemate between Leo and Piper was still very much in evidence. Polite in public, they avoided each other at all costs, and Phoebe's heart sank as she watched Paige and Leo's bond deepen as his marriage disinigrated. For the most part, she heeded Cole's advice and kept her comments to herself, but she despaired.
Paige stayed fairly self-absorbed, which was expected. Every symptom was discussed, every milestone celebrated. So it was on the night that Phoebe heard the giggling next door...
" That's it! " She whispered crossly to Cole, who held her close in what appeared to be an intimate and loving embrace; but what was in reality a precautionary measure to keep her from bolting out of their room and into the one next door.
" Leave it alone. " Cole yawned, tightening his hold. " If it's innocent, you're going to make an ass out of yourself, and if it's not, you're going to make an even bigger ass out of yourself. "
Phoebe pulled herself loose and with a stuck out tongue, departed, while Cole sighed.
Phoebe stopped short on the threshold of the next room, astounded by the open door, and the sight of Paige, sleep tank rolled up and p.j. bottoms rolled down. Her fifth month was half over, and her abdomen was beginning to round out nicely. At the moment, Leo had his hand cupped over the bulge that appeared to be moving...
Paige looked up, her face flushed, appearing happier and prettier than ever. Catching site of her sister she gestured wildly.
" She moving! Come feel! "
Phoebe walked slowly towards the bed, mesmerized by the mysterious fluttering going on under Paige's pale flesh.
" Oh my. " She whispered, plopping herself down next to Leo, and laying a delicate hand on the area he indicated.
Sure enough, a series of faint bumps and rolls could be felt, and Phoebe felt an extraordinary feeling sweep over her.
This wasn't just the next Heiress Of Magic, this was her niece. Her own flesh and blood, and the Source of all Evil could just kiss her rump if he thought he was going to harm this child!
" Isn't it wild? " Paige asked, gratified by Phoebe's interest. Paige was aware how hard this was on her sister, who truly wanted Paige's happiness, but not at Piper's expense.
Paige knew that the bond and love she shared with Leo would last a lifetime, but not as it was now. Sharing a bed, and basically a life, they were as happy as was possible, given the situation, but it wasn't meant to be, and they both knew it. Besides, Paige had been warming up quite nicely to the handsome other demon of the crowd, and Leo was happy for her, while Paige dreamed of her oldest sister being happy again.
Phoebe walked a delicate line between all this. She was as loving and supportive as she could be to the distant, detached Piper, while giving Paige all the love and nurturing she needed at this stressful time.
A few minutes had passed before Paige's cheeks colored and she directed Phoebe's attention towards the open door. There, clad only in p.j. bottoms, Cole lounged against the door jamb, taking in the scene with a grin. He didn't come any closer, as they knew from experience that the baby would react violently.
Paige had felt so bad about her unborn infant's adversion to her demon " Uncle ", until Cole himself provided the answer.
" She doesn't know ME yet, Paige. All she know is evil or good at this stage. Once she's here and I'm spoiling her rotten, we'll be friends, I guarantee it. "
Paige chuckled, " No spoiling, Uncle Cole. "
Cole grinned back, " Oh yes. Spoiling. Lots of spoiling. "
Cole was just as touched by the scene as Phoebe, and wished that he could join in the fun..
While outside, a storm brewed.
While inside Piper's room, she dreamt of sadness and days draped in black...
While outside, a figure wearing Piper's face appeared, wearing black and weeping, to join the figure in green as it stared up at the lighted window where sounds of happiness still resounded...
*****
Eric was just stepping out onto his porch with Piper when he heard Phoebe's scream and saw Paige running awkwardly over the sand towards him.
" Eric! Cole's been stabbed! Athame! " Paige gasped out, as Piper reached out to steady her.
" Stabbed?! Where is he?! " Eric yelled, and took off running before Paige could catch her breath.
He could see Phoebe coruched down in the sand, and as he raced up he saw that she was cradling Cole's head in her lap. She smoothed the hair back from his forehead with unsteady, bloodstained hands, and looked up at Eric with eyes brimming with tears.
" Help him! Heal him! "
Without even thinking, Eric flung out his hands and the golden glow enveloped the fearsome wound on Cole's chest. As it slowly re-knitted, Cole moaned softly and stirred, only to groan again as his eyes meat that of his best friend. His demonic best friend.
Who was in the process of healing him with the touch known only to a whitelighter.
" What the...?! "
" Dude. " Phoebe said, a smile beginning as a healed but astounded Cole pulled himself upright.
" You are SO busted. "
*****
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Post by winter on Apr 2, 2005 18:44:58 GMT -5
I smell trouble brewing lol. Me thinks Pipers half and halfs are about to loose it. But i love this story keep up the good work.
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elenarae
Familiar
[glow=green,2,200]Piper Fan Club Member[/glow]
Forever Charmed!
Posts: 206
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Post by elenarae on Apr 5, 2005 13:02:30 GMT -5
I love this story. One of the best I have ever read. Better than all the books. You really are gifted in this area.
Post more soon!!
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Post by alchemystik32 on Apr 6, 2005 11:39:54 GMT -5
~*Heiress Of Magic*~
Paradise Lost
By: Alchemystik32
*****
A morose Cole layed on the bed he shared with Phoebe, staring at the ceiling, while a relieved Phoebe fluttered around him.
" Honestly, you're acting like you've just lost your best friend! " She finally said, exasperated by his brooding.
" I did. " Cole hissed from between gritted teeth. " He's..he's...GOOD! "
Phoebe rolled her eyes, and then turned away to hide her smile from Cole's view.
Cole was not handling Eric's revelation with very good grace. In fact, he was being down right demonic about it.
" I'm good and it doesn't bother you. " She said, mildly, plopping down on the love seat to fold socks, " And he did just save your life. "
" Yeah. In a GOOD way. "
Phoebe sighed and shook her head. Honestly, what was the big deal?
Cole rubbed his eyes and sat up, " You don't get it, do you?! He was like a brother to me! We drank together, womanized together, I've even seen him naked, for Pete's sake ! "
" Do I even want to know why? " Phoebe answered, lifting an eyebrow.
" Long story, Not pretty. " Cole said with a grin, and Phoebe hooted. Maybe he was being a bit of a...
" You jerk! " Eric yelled from the doorway. " Where the hell was your head? Going off to the cabin alone?! "
Cole scowled, " I don't need a lying, double agent to tell me how to do my job! " He yelled back.
" Guys! " Phoebe warned, " Let's not say anything we may regret later, ok? "
Eric clenched the muscles of his jaw, and narrowed his eyes. Phoebe didn't see a whitelighter or guardian standing before her, she saw one pissed off man. One pissed off, hurt man.
" I'm not a double agent, Cole. But I have a job to do just like you do, and no one is going to keep me from doing it. "
" Is that a threat?! " Cole demanded, and Phoebe, exasperated beyond measure, threw a handful of socks at them and stormed out of the room.
" You've got my sock behind your ear. " Eric said mildly.
" Oh. Here. " Cole said, handing the sock over, " I just want to know...why? "
" Why I didn't tell you? I couldn't. I was afraid it would reveal my mission to the Source. "
" Oh? " Cole said, in a dangerously quiet voice, " Didn't quite trust me, did you? "
Eric glared at him, " It's not a matter of trust, you bastard, it's a matter of contact! The Source keeps tabs on all his demons, especially those he feels are going rogue! You're pretty high up on his dance card right now! "
" I don't have to listen to this! " Cole sneered, and shimmered out of the room.
" Oh, yes, you do! " Eric muttered, orbing out after him.
The chase was on.
*****
Phoebe walked the beach as the sun began to set, wringing her hands nervously. Cole and Eric had been gone for hours, and she was desperate to sure that pain and blood were not involved in their " discussion ". Two more stubborn men had yet to be found, and this little incident could have huge consequences if not resolved in a timely manner.
" Hey! " Paige yelled from down the beach, waving an arm, " Isn't the sunset beautiful? "
Phoebe smiled and waved back, nodding in agreement. How nice it must be to have no cares, she mused. To be having a baby with the man you loved...Oh no. No.
Phoebe closed her eyes against the sudden rush of tears. Life was so confusing right now! One sister gone forever, another in danger of losing herself to a very dark place. Still another forced to bear a magical child to save them all, no one with the person they should be with; except for her and Cole, and even now, Phoebe wondered how much her relationship with Cole was really going to cost her in the end. What possible good could come of a love between a demon and a good witch?
" Stop it, Phoebe. " Leo said quietly from behind her.
" Damnit! Stop sneaking up on me! "
Leo grinned, and placed a brotherly arm around Phoebe's shoulders.
" You're being kinda hard on yourself again, aren't ya? "
Phoebe shrugged, " I suppose. I didn't know that whitelighters were mind readers. "
" Not too hard to read your mind. You always wore your thoughts on your face; and your heart on your sleeve, to coin a phrase. "
" Great. " Phoebe muttered, then changed the subject, " Did you know about Eric? "
Leo shook his head, " No, I didn't know that he was an upper level dude, but I'm not surprised. He never gave off that intangible aura of menace..."
He let his voice trail off, but Phoebe just smiled sadly, " It's ok. I know it's hard for people to understand, but Cole really is gentleness itself with me. I've never known a moment of fear when I'm with him. Alone, that is. He's alot more tamed than you might think, Leo. "
Leo smiled vaguely. Cole was in love with Phoebe, of that he was certain. He always treated her with the upmost courtesy, tenderness and respect, but beneath the surface, one could sense the tiger posing as a tabby cat. The air of evil, subtle though it was, was always there. A reminder that it would be well to never trust his demonic side completely. The Tiger, while beautiful, regal and powerful, was incapable of being tamed.
" Finally! " Phoebe exclaimed and hurried to where a rumpled looking Cole was down on one knee in the sand, struggling to catch his breath.
" Oh, baby! You're hurt! " Phoebe gushed, and touched the rapidly darkening bruise under his left eye.
" Yeah, well...you should see the other guy. "
Leo opened his mouth to speak, but before he could get a word out, an equally rumpled and bruised Eric dropped out of an orb, falling on the sand next to Cole. Cole was right, Eric looked just as bad.
" I don't believe you two! " Phoebe yelled, while the two ex-friends glared at each other, fists clenched.
" What DIFFERENCE does it make?! You've worked together for years, NOTHING has changed! "
" Are you mental?! " Cole seethed, " Everything has changed! He's not the guy I know! "
" Oh, I am too, you moron! Why are you being such a pain in my ass about this?! Should I have just let you bleed to death out there? Huh? Would that make you happier!? ' Cause I can stab you myself right now, and we'll all watch! It would be a pleasure! "
Paige and Piper had joined the circle, and Phoebe noticed that both of them were struggling to maintain a semblance of composure. It was a rather humorous situation. Infantile, but humorous.
Leo swallowed a chuckle, and tried to mediate...
" Cole, I know the revelations have been a bit..unsettling, but..."
" Oh, just stow it, wing boy! " Cole snapped, prompting another round of abuse from Eric.
Leo sighed and threw his hands up; he turned to the sisters and sighed, " I tried. "
" Yeah. " Paige said with a grin, " That worked. Look how nice they're playing now. "
Sure enough, a wrestling match was starting on the sand. The only problem was that both combatants were already exhausted, and couldn't give it any kind of realism. Paige began to giggle, as did Phoebe. Even the blankness in Piper's eyes lifted enough for her to chuckle warmly. Soon, Leo joined in, and Eric and Cole began to realize how futile a physical challenge was between them. They had trained together, learned the same techniques, practiced on each other. They were too well matched. And too tired.
Finally, Cole laid down in the sand, gasping for air...
" I quit. "
" Me, too. "
" You good? "
" I'm good. You? "
"Yep. I'll kick your ass tomorrow. "
" I'll kick yours, too. Before of after we golf? "
" After. "
" Doable. See you in the morning. "
" Yep, see ya at dawn. "
" Night. "
" Night. "
And with that they went their separate ways, leaving a hysterical group to stare after them. Paige recovered first...
" That was..awesome! "
" Better than T.V. " Piper said with a grin.
But Phoebe just shook her head; she knew her man, and she was getting a handle on Eric, too. This wasn't over, not by a long shot.
And.
Dissention in a Lost Paradise could have fatal consequences...
*****
That night, as the moon rose, the two fractured parts of Piper's psyche met with the one who had brought about their situation.
Sorrow and Envy were ready to do the Seer's bidding...
And, Piper would take the blame...
*****
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