Immortal Games

[noazmale]

CHARMED
“Immortal Games”
By J. B. Tilton (a.k.a. NoAzMale) and Teri Thibeault (a.k.a. Tessalynne)
Emails: [e-mail] [e-mail]
Rating: K

* * *

Disclaimer: “Charmed” and all related characters and events are the property of the WB television network, except for those characters specifically created for this story. This is a work of fan fiction and no infringement of copyright is intended.

* * *

(Authors’ note: This story takes place between season 3 episodes “The Good, The Bad, And The Cursed” and “Just Harried”.)

* * *

One of the richest men in the world asks the Charmed Ones for their help with a demon that’s after him. Except the demon seems to be unvanquishable.

* * *
PRELUDE

The man stood concealed in the murky shadows of an alleyway. The sun had set several hours earlier and he had finally ventured out. A solitary man by nature he found large cities – like San Francisco – especially bothersome. But he had little choice. He went where the hunt led him. He had searched long and hard for his prey. It was only a matter of time before he found the person he was searching for. But he was a patient man and he had plenty of time.

The man lit a cigarette, his face briefly illuminated in the flickering flame of the lighter. Clean-shaven with shaggy blonde hair, most women would have found him extremely attractive. He had long ago decided against any kind of romantic involvement, however. They always ended the same way. And after all these years he had decided living alone was better than the inevitable loss.

Three figures suddenly shimmered in several yards behind the man. They appeared to be human but then that would be normal. It wouldn’t do for them to appear in their demonic forms. Most people didn’t even believe in them. That made their “work” just that much easier.

Silently the three figures moved up the alleyway toward the man. He never turned to look at them. He appeared to be totally unconcerned that someone might be sneaking up on him. Suddenly as the three demons came within only a few feet of the man he turned to face them.

The lights from a passing car momentarily illuminated the alley bathing the four figures its light. The demons saw the man and fear showed in their faces. They backed away from the man several steps.

“Out for an evening stroll?” the man asked. He dragged on his cigarette nonchalantly.

“We don’t want any trouble,” said the lead demon.

“Really?” the man questioned. “Is that why you’re sneaking up on humans in dark alleyways?”

“We’re just following our orders,” said the demon. “Like I said, we don’t want any trouble with you.”

“Then I suggest you find your amusement somewhere else,” said the man. “While I’m feeling generous.”

“No problem,” said the demon.

Unceremoniously the three demons shimmered out of the alleyway. The man turned and looked out into the street beyond. As usual the streets were busy. He would blend in as any other denizen of the city. He pulled a small stone out of his pocket that glowed with a bluish light. It wouldn’t be long now. Placing the stone back into his pocket he crushed out his cigarette and slipped into the crowded streets beyond.

[Fiji221]

Ooo! Very interesting! update soon!

[noazmale]

ONE

“Dad, I’m fine,” said Phoebe. “Leo healed me. I’m as good as new.”

“Look, I know he’s a . . . White Lighter,” Victor said hesitantly, glancing over at Leo. “I’d just feel better if you were checked out by a doctor, that’s all. You were shot, for crying out loud.”

“Victor,” Leo started.

Victor shot Leo an angry glance.

“Sweetie,” said Piper putting her arm around Leo, “I think you’d better stay out of this one.”

“I’m sorry, Leo,” said Victor. “It’s not you personally. I just have issues with White Lighters.”

“I’m aware of that,” said Leo nervously. “But you do know about White Lighters. You must know that our healing ability heals someone completely. Better than any doctor could do.”

“Can you honestly say there have never been any side affects from your healing?” Victor asked. “Maybe something your healing power can’t affect?”

“Dad, it can heal any physical ailment a person has,” said Piper. “Leo’s healed all of us at one time or another. And there have never been any side affects.”

“That’s my point,” said Victor. “You’ve all needed his healing a lot. Even if he does heal you completely there has to be some kind of accumulation for all that injury. If you broke your arm in the same place five times would you expect it to work properly even if it healed completely?”

“We haven’t broken our arms in the same place five times,” said Prue.

“No,” said Victor. “Most of your injuries are demonic related. And most of those are a lot worse than simply breaking your arm. I’d just feel better if Phoebe was checked out by a doctor. A real doctor.”

“Dad, that’s really not necessary,” said Phoebe. “I really am okay.”

“Hold on a minute, Phoebe,” said Cole. “Maybe your dad has a point. I know that a White Lighter’s healing ability can completely heal a person. But Victor has a point. There could be unforeseen complications from all the injuries you and your sisters have sustained the past couple of years. And it’s always a good idea to have a checkup every so often.”

“That’s all I’m asking,” said Victor. “That you get a checkup and make sure everything is working like it’s supposed to be. If for no other reason than it will make me feel better.”

“I guess a checkup couldn’t hurt,” said Phoebe. “If it will make you feel better and get you off my back I suppose I could get a checkup.”

“Thank you,” said Victor, kissing her on the forehead. “I’m sure everything is okay. I’d just like to make sure. I wasn’t much of a father when you three were growing up. I’d like to think I’ll have plenty of time to make up for at least part of that.”

“All in the past, dad,” said Piper, glancing at Prue. Prue had accepted their father back into their lives but she still harbored some bad feelings about their childhood. Feelings she was trying very hard to deal with. “And we’re going to be around for quite a while.”

“It’s not like you lead ordinary lives,” Victor reasoned. “You’re all witches. My soon-to-be son-in-law is a White Lighter – which I’m still not sure I’m comfortable with. And one of my other daughters is dating a demon. Not exactly the model family.”

“Everything will be okay,” said Prue. “We’ve learned to trust in Leo’s healing power. You should, too.”

“I’m sure I will,” said Victor. “In time. Promise me you’ll get that checkup for me.”

“I have to run into town in the morning,” said Phoebe. “While I’m out I’ll stop in at the doctors’ office and make an appointment. Will that make you happy?”

“Absolutely,” said Victor smiling. “I’m going to have to leave town on business in a couple of days. I’d like to know that you’re okay before I leave.”

“Right now I need to be getting to the club,” said Piper. “Leo, I could use some help opening the club. The bartender is going to be late tonight and there’s an awful lot to get done.”

“I suppose I could tear myself away to help for a while,” said Leo smiling.

“And I should be going for a day or two,” said Cole, looking nervously at Victor. He still wasn’t sure just how much the girls had told Victor. “I need to make sure that a few loose ends are tied up. Wouldn’t want any unwanted guests showing up.”

“That’s probably a good idea,” said Phoebe. “I’m feeling kind of tired. I think I’ll just sit around the house and rest for a while.”

“Care for some company, honey?” Victor asked. “I don’t have to be anywhere tonight.”

“Sure,” said Phoebe. “It will give us a chance to catch up on things.”

“Well, I have to get to the magazine,” said Prue. “I got a call earlier and apparently they have some big new spread they’re going to do and they want to let all the photographers know exactly what they’re looking for.”

“Will you be very late for dinner?” Piper asked.

“Not sure, sweetie,” said Prue. “I’ll just have to play it by ear.”

“Well call if you find out,” said Phoebe. “You know how Piper gets when you’re late for dinner and don’t call.”

“I’ll call,” said Prue. “I don’t think it will be very late. It’s just some special photo layout they’re planning to do. If I think I’m going to be late I’ll call and let you know.”

“Okay,” said Piper. “I should be able to come home once the club is ready. Then maybe we can all enjoy a relaxing evening at the club for a change.”

“I’m all for that,” said Prue.

Cole said his goodbyes to Phoebe as Leo and Piper orbed out for the club. While Prue headed for her car, leaving Phoebe and Victor to settle into the living room.

[vanillabliss]

[glow=violet,2,300]wow! this is alot more interesting than the actualy eppiesode. Update soon![/glow]

[noazmale]

TWO

Piper and Leo rushed into the hospital and hurriedly approached the nurse’s desk in the emergency room.

“I’m looking for Phoebe Halliwell,” said Piper. “She was admitted a little bit ago.”

“Piper, Leo.”

The two turned to see Prue and Victor standing outside one of the examination rooms. They hurried over to them.

“Is she okay?” Piper asked. “What happened?”

“She’s okay, honey,” said Victor. “We were talking and she started to go into the kitchen to get something to drink when she suddenly collapsed. After what she’s been through I figured it was best if I got her to the hospital as fast as possible.”

“Why didn’t you call for Leo?” Piper asked, anger creeping into her voice. “Whatever is wrong with her his healing power could have fixed it.”

“From what I know about White Lighters,” said Victor, “it wouldn’t have done any good. I’m not one of his charges and he wouldn’t have heard me.”

“He’s right,” said Leo. “What I don’t understand is why I didn’t sense she was in danger.”

“Well, the doctor says she’s basically okay,” said Prue. “She was just badly dehydrated. That’s why she passed out. He says with rest and plenty of fluids she should make a complete recovery.”

“Then my healing power wouldn’t have done any good anyway,” said Leo. “Dehydration isn’t technically an injury. It can’t replace the fluids she’s lost any more than it can replace strength you lose. It’s probably a good thing that Victor got her here when he did.”

“The doctor gave her a sedative to rest,” said Victor. “She’s asleep right now and he says that’s the best thing for her. Well, that and the I.V. she has that’s replacing her fluid loss. It’s probably best is we just let her sleep and come back to see her tomorrow.”

“You’re sure she’s okay?” Piper asked.

“Yes,” said Prue. “Just dehydrated, as I said. If she rests she’ll be fine in a couple of days.”

“Okay,” said Piper. “As long as you’re sure she’s okay I guess we can wait until tomorrow to see her.”

“Sorry to scare you like that,” said Victor. “My first thought was to get her here to the hospital. While the doctors were working on her I called you in case you were needed. Thankfully you weren’t.”

“Well, when she’s better we’re going to have a long talk about her taking better care of herself,” Piper insisted.

“Don’t be too hard on her,” said Prue. “I’m sure this wasn’t deliberate. And she has grown up quite a bit since she came home.”

“Am I hearing right?” Piper asked in disbelief. “Is Prue Halliwell sticking up for her youngest sister?”

“Very funny,” said Prue. “She is my sister. Just because we don’t always get along doesn’t mean I love her any less than you do.”

“Okay, that’s enough you two,” Leo interjected. “I suggest we all go home and get some rest. I’m sure Phoebe will appreciate a visit from us in the morning.”

“What about Cole?” Piper asked as they headed for the exit to the emergency room. “Any ideas how we let him know what’s going on?”

“Not at the moment,” said Leo. “He didn’t say where he was going and I really have no way to find out where he is. We’ll just have to wait until he shows up to fill him in.”

As they started to head for the exit of the hospital the emergency doors suddenly burst open. Two paramedics wheeled in a gurney with a man, drenched in blood, lying on it. They had to step to the side to allow the gurney to pass.

“Pulse is weak and thready,” said one of the paramedics as a doctor stepped up to the gurney. “Pupils are fixed and dilated. Blood pressure is 95 over 47 and falling.”

“What are his injuries?” the doctor asked.

“Multiple contusions and compound fractures to both legs,” said the other paramedic. “He apparently was struck by a car crossing the street. Frankly I’m surprised he’s still alive. I’m sure he has internal injuries. No information on allergies or sensitivities to any medication.”

“Get him into exam three,” said the doctor to a nurse standing nearby. “Type and cross match blood type and let’s get some x-rays. Then see if we can get a neurosurgeon down here. We may have to. . .”

Suddenly the man on the gurney gasped loudly and opened his eyes. He looked around the room and then sat up on the gurney.

“What the?” began the doctor.

The man just smiled and jumped down off the gurney. He seemed to be completely uninjured. He straightened his tie and smiled at the doctor. Then he turned and headed for the door.

“Hold on,” said the doctor, taking the man’s arm. “You’re badly injured. We haven’t even had a chance to examine you yet.”

“I’m fine,” said the man, glancing furtively around the room. “I don’t have to accept any medical treatment I don’t want. And I don’t want any. Now if you’ll excuse me, I really should be going.”

“Piper,” Prue whispered, “we can’t just let him walk out of here. He could die.”

“There’s not much I can do,” said Piper. “There are too many people around.”

The man headed for the door and looked around. For a moment he stopped and stared at the group. A strange look crossed his face for just an instant. Then he continued out the door before anyone could stop him. The sisters just stared after his retreating form as he disappeared out the door.

[Fiji221]

Very interesting! I like it! Write more soon!!

[vanillabliss]

awesome so far!

[noazmale]

THREE

“Well I have to say,” said Victor after they had returned to the manor, “that was something new. That man seemed to be very badly injured. I don’t understand how he just got up and walked out like that.”

“Maybe the paramedics made a mistake,” suggested Prue. “Maybe he wasn’t that badly injured.”

“That’s unlikely,” said Leo. “They said he had multiple broken bones. A paramedic isn’t likely to make a misdiagnosis like that. And if his pupils were fixed and dilated that would indicated some very serious head trauma.”

“But that would mean his injuries healed almost instantly,” said Piper.

“Are you saying he was a White Lighter?” Victor asked. “He did seem to recognize one of us.”

“I don’t think so,” said Leo. “You girls have seen what happens when a White Lighters’ self healing works. There’s a bluish affect similar to our orbing. He didn’t exhibit any of that. Besides the healing would have kicked in almost as soon as he had been injured. It wouldn’t have waited until he got to the hospital.”

“Are you saying he was a demon?” Prue asked.

“That seems unlikely as well,” said Leo. “A demon wouldn’t have put himself in a position where he’d have to be taken to a mortal hospital. The risk of exposure would be too great.”

“So what was he?” Victor asked. “He obviously wasn’t human.”

“I don’t know,” said Leo. “I’ll go check with the Elders. They might know something. And as it stands we really don’t have anything else to go on.”

“What about where he was injured?” Piper questioned. “Maybe that would give us a clue to his identity.”

“When I talked to the paramedic,” said Prue, “he told me where the accident happened. There are dozens of businesses in that part of town. I wouldn’t even know where to start.”

“Leo, you go check with the Elders,” said Piper. “The rest of us will see if we can figure out anything else. We can start by checking the Book of Shadows to see if that man is in there. Once Leo gets back we can decide what to do then.”

“At least my meeting was over before dad called,” said Prue as Leo orbed out. “It didn’t last as long as I thought it would.”

“What did they want?” Victor asked.

“They’re doing a special article on the ten most eligible, elusive bachelors in San Francisco,” said Prue. “They want us to get any pictures we can of the men.” She pulled a sheet of paper out of her purse. “They even gave us a list of the men they plan to feature in the article. There’s very little known about all of them.”

“That should be an interesting article,” said Piper. “Mind if I see whose on that list?”

“Help yourself,” said Prue. “By the way, take a look at name number four.”

Piper read over the list and stifled a laugh.

“Cole Turner?” she questioned. “Cole is one of the ten most enigmatic available bachelors? He’s not rich.”

“Rich can be only one criteria,” said Prue. “Most of them are extremely successful even if they aren’t rich. Cole is one of the most successful ADA’s in San Francisco. His win ratio is extremely high. Apparently some women prefer successful over rich.”

“That will make Phoebe happy,” said Piper.

“See the first name on the list?” Prue asked. “Steffan Van White. I happen to know he’s in town right now. And if I can get some pictures of him it would be a real coup. Apparently he’s extremely camera shy. There don’t seem to be any pictures of him at all.”

“How can you think about that with Phoebe in the hospital?” Victor asked.

“Dad, I do care about Phoebe,” said Prue. “But right now there’s nothing I can do to help and she’s getting the best medical treatment possible. And I still have a job to do. It shouldn’t take me long to get some shots of him and I can still go visit Phoebe in the morning.”

“She’s right, dad,” said Piper. “It’s not like Phoebe is in any danger. You said yourself that if she gets plenty of rest she’ll be fine. Life does go on even in the face of adversity.”

“I suppose,” Victor grumbled reluctantly. “I guess you three have to put up with things like this a lot.”

“More than we’d like,” said Piper. “But it’s the price to pay for being a Charmed One.”

“Well, maybe when Leo gets back we’ll have some clue who this guy in the hospital was,” said Prue. “In the mean time I’ll check the Book of Shadows for the guy in the hospital. We don’t have much to go on but we might get lucky. And there’s nothing I can do about getting the picture I need until tomorrow. Might as well put tonight to good use trying to figure out just what happened in the hospital tonight.”

“I’ll put on some coffee,” Piper said with a sigh. “Looks like it’s going to be a long night.”

* * *

“The Elders have no idea who – or what – that man might be,” reported Leo after he returned. “They have no record of anyone who can regenerate like that outside of White Lighters or demons. He’s definitely not a White Lighter and they agree with me. No demon would put themselves in a position like that. They’re as stumped as we are.”

“I couldn’t find any reference about him in the Book of Shadows, either,” said Prue. “It’s like he doesn’t even exist.”

“Well, obviously he exists,” Piper observed drolly. “We all saw what happened at the hospital.”

“I don’t understand,” said Victor. “What’s the big deal? He didn’t appear to be a threat of any kind.”

“Not yet,” said Prue. “but if he can instantly heal like that there’s no telling what else he may be able to do. And if he is a demon you can bet he’s up to no good.”

“Well, it seems to me,” continued Victor, “that unless you can find out more about him, there isn’t much you can do about it. And you really don’t have any evidence that’s he’s a threat. Just that he apparently has the ability to heal damage to his body. And that’s not even conclusive. Why look for trouble? Even doctors make mistakes. It is perfectly conceivable that the paramedics simply made a mistake about the man’s condition.”

“Like I said,” said Leo, “I find that highly unlikely.”

“Maybe,” said Victor. “But he isn’t in the Book of Shadows. And not even the Elders know about him. That’s a pretty good indication that he isn’t a demon, isn’t it?”

“Well,” said Leo hesitantly, “they do know about most demons. It’s not very likely there would be a demon they don’t at least have some information on.”

“There you go,” said Victor. “Now, until and unless this guy pops up again I suggest you don’t give him a second thought. If he shows up again you can decide what to do about him then. If he doesn’t there’s no sense in worrying about it. Besides, we still have Phoebe to worry about. She’s going to need her rest the next couple of days.”

“Maybe you’re right,” said Prue. “We can’t deal with him if we don’t know who he is. And dad’s right. We don’t have any evidence he’s a threat. Maybe it’s best if we just forget about him for right now.”

“We’d better get some rest then,” said Piper. “I want to be at the hospital to see Phoebe first thing in the morning. But we’d better keep our eyes open for this mysterious stranger. I have a feeling we may be seeing him again.”

[noazmale]

FOUR

“The doctor said it was just dehydration,” said Phoebe the next morning. “He said after the tests come back I’ll be able to go home. It wasn’t serious.”

“You need to take better care of yourself,” said Piper. “God knows we have enough problems with demon attacks. You can’t let yourself get rundown like this.”

“I’m sure it wasn’t intentional,” said Victor. “And she’s looking better all ready.”

“Where’s Prue?” Phoebe asked.

“She had an assignment this morning,” said Leo. “She said she’d try to get here as soon as she could.”

“Well I’ve never exactly been her favorite person in the world,” Phoebe mumbled in disappointment.

“Pheebs, she’s just as concerned as we are,” Piper consoled her gently. “But like she said last night, there wasn’t much she could do to help. And you’re getting the best medical treatment available. It’s not that she doesn’t care. She just has trouble showing it, you know that.”

“I know,” said Phoebe. “But she’s getting better at it. I remember a time when she couldn’t say ‘I love you’. That’s changed at least.”

“You’re right there,” said Piper.

“I guess you haven’t had a chance to let Cole know what’s been going on have you?” Phoebe asked.

“We really aren’t sure where he is right now,” said Leo. “But we’ll let him know the first chance we get. Of course you’ll probably be home before then so I wouldn’t worry about it.”

“Say, Phoebe,” said Piper, “have you heard anything about a strange incident that happened here yesterday? About the time you came in?”

“I assume you mean the injured man who miraculously got up and walked out of here,” said Phoebe.

“That would be the one,” said Piper.

“Your sisters seem to think he’s some kind of demon,” said Victor.

“They didn’t say that exactly,” said Leo. “They just think that what happened yesterday was kind of strange.”

“You don’t?” Phoebe asked.

“Well, yeah, I guess so,” said Leo. “But that doesn’t necessarily make it demonically related.”

“One of the nurses did mention it,” said Phoebe. “It’s been buzzing around the hospital all night. Apparently the paramedics swore that he was lucky to be alive. The doctors are saying the man must not have been as badly injured as the paramedics initially thought.”

“Do they have any idea who the man was?” Leo asked.

“Apparently the paramedics still had his personal affects,” said Phoebe. “His wallet, a watch, and two rings. The rings and watch were very expensive. The ID in the wallet said his name was Steffan Van White.”

“Steffan Van White?” Piper questioned. “That’s the man Prue went to photograph this morning.”

“The nurse said he’s one of the richest men in the United States,” said Phoebe. “He moved to San Francisco from England a few years ago. Very little is known about him and there are virtually no pictures of him. It seems he doesn’t like his picture taken.”

“That’s an indication he isn’t a demon,” said Leo. “If he’s that rich it would make him a type of public figure. No demon would want to be that public a figure.”

“Well, he’s certainly not human,” said Piper. “The way he got up and ran out of here after all those injuries he had. No human I know could do that.”

“The nurse did say he was staying at the Regency Hotel,” said Phoebe. “He apparently doesn’t have a permanent residence in San Francisco even though it’s where he calls home now. When he’s in town he usually stays at one of the best hotels.”

“If Prue is going to see him maybe we should get over there,” said Piper. “He may not be a demon but he could be dangerous. She might need our help.”

“I think that’s a little premature,” said Leo. “We don’t want an army marching over there. Besides, I haven’t sensed anything from her. If she were in any danger I’d have sensed it. If I do I can orb you there in an instant.”

“Leo’s right,” said Victor. “And Prue can take care of herself. I still think you’re blowing this thing all out of proportion. There’s no evidence this man is a danger to anyone.”

“I just have a bad feeling about it, that’s all,” said Piper. “People just don’t get up and walk away with those kinds of injuries.”

“Stranger things have happened,” said Victor. “Now, can we just forget about it for now? The last thing Phoebe needs is any excitement right now.”

“Leo can fix that,” said Phoebe.

“First of all,” said Leo, “this wasn’t technically caused by demonic activity. Secondly, my healing power won’t affect dehydration. It’s not really an injury. So I’m afraid you’re on your own on this one.”

“Dad’s right,” said Piper. “We came here to cheer Phoebe up. The demons can wait until later.”

[noazmale]

FIVE

Prue checked her camera settings again. She was standing outside the Regency Hotel. If her information was correct – and it usually was – Steffan Van White would be leaving the hotel in a few minutes. Her source at the magazine had told her that he had a meeting in half an hour. All she had to do was wait until he came out and snap a few pictures.

Even as early as it was the streets were bustling with activity. With a little luck Mr. Van White wouldn’t even notice her standing half secluded near the side of the building. At least all she had to do was get some pictures. The journalist writing the article had the real work to do. Sifting through page after page of information to garner whatever they could on the elusive Mr. Van White.

Movement caught her eye and she looked up to see a man come out of the front of the hotel. He looked around for a few minutes. Prue ignored him. He was much too old to be Mr. Van White. By all accounts Steffan Van White was no older than about twenty-five. Suddenly the man turned and walked directly to her.

“Excuse me,” he said, “are you Prudence Halliwell?”

“Prue, actually,” she said nervously. “I’ve never cared much for the name Prudence.”

“Of course. Mr. Van White would be appreciative if you would visit him in his hotel suite. He wishes to speak with you.”

“How does he know who I am?” she asked suspiciously. “And how did he know I was out here?”

“He’ll be glad to answer all of your questions, Miss Halliwell.”

“And if I say no?”

“You’re free to leave. But I can assure you that you won’t be getting any pictures of Mr. Van White today. He dislikes having his photograph taken.”

Prue thought for a moment. With his resources Van White could find out anything he wanted about anyone he wanted. Only she didn’t know why he would want to know about her. Or how he knew she was waiting outside to take his picture. After a moment her curiosity got the better of her. She simply nodded and started to head into the hotel.

“The camera will have to remain here, I’m afraid,” said the man holding out his hand. “Rest assured it will be kept quite safe. It will be returned to you when your meeting with Mr. Van White is over.”

Reluctantly Prue handed the man the camera.

“He’s in suite 1214,” said the man. “You can go right in. He’s expecting you.”

Prue went into the hotel and took the elevator to the twelfth floor. It was easy to locate room 1214. She hesitated at the door for a minute. Then, gathering her courage, she knocked. There was no answer. Hesitantly she opened the door and peered inside.

“Please come in.”

The voice from inside the room took her by surprise. She looked around the hallway then slipped inside the room. Cautiously she closed the door behind her.

“I suppose you’re wondering why I invited you up here,” said a voice with a British accent from another room. “And I imagine you have a number of questions at the moment. Well, as Rupert told you, I’ll be glad to answer any questions you have. Please, make yourself at home. I’ll be out directly.”

Prue looked around the room. It was exactly as she expected a suite at the Regency would be like. A room that would befit a man of Mr. Van Whites’ station in life.

“Actually, I do have a couple of questions, Mr. Van White,” Prue said. “Like how you knew who I was and how you knew I was waiting outside for you.”

“I’ll be more than happy to explain everything to you,” said Van White. “And please call me Steffan. I’ve never been very comfortable being called Mister.”

“Okay,” said Prue.

Several moments passed and finally Van White walked into the main room of the suite. He was wearing a very expensive three-piece suit. His black hair was immaculately trimmed. Prue just stared at him in near disbelief. It was the same man she had seen walk out of the hospital the night before.

“A pleasure to formally meet you at last,” said Van White. “I imagine this must be quite a shock for you.”

“I . . . I don’t know what you mean?” stammered Prue.

“Oh, come now, Prue,” said Van White. “May I call you Prue? Let’s not play games. We both know you recognize me from last night. I can see it in your face. And I, of course, recognize you. My people tell me some impressive things about you. Formerly of Buckland’s Auction House. Before that a curator for a local museum.”

“Assistant Curator,” corrected Prue.

“Semantics. We both know it was really you who put together that exquisite exhibit that – what was his name – took credit for. And from what I hear you’re becoming quite the photographer as well. Not to mention that beautiful manor you live in. Inherited it from your grandmother I understand.”

“You seem to know a lot about me. Considering we never saw each other before last night.”

“I have a great many resources at my disposal. When I recognized you last night I had my people check you out.”

“Recognized me? How could you recognize me? As far as I know we’ve never met before.”

“I’m sorry. I misspoke myself. I should have said when I recognized what you were.”

“I’m not sure I understand.”

“You are a witch. And a powerful one if I’m not mistaken. Perhaps one powerful enough to help me.”

“A witch?” said Prue with a nervous laugh. “You must be delusional.”

“Please, don’t insult my intelligence. If I had wanted to harm you believe me when I say it would be quite easy for me to do so. Those resources I mentioned before. They are considerable. I’m quite wealthy and there is very little I can’t afford.”

“Okay, for the sake of argument, let’s say you’re right. Let’s say I am a witch. If you’re so rich what do you need me for?”

“Something my wealth can’t buy me. You all ready know my secret. At least the manifestation of it. I was quite careless. But I was in a hurry and wasn’t watching where I was going. So I ended up in that hospital. Normally my chauffeur would have handled it. But he was tied up in traffic and couldn’t get to me before the authorities got there.”

“Okay I’ll bite. Just what is this secret that I saw the manifestation of?”

“To put it bluntly, immortality. You see, Prue, again quite bluntly, I simply cannot die.”

[vanillabliss]

whoa! your a really talented writer, update again soon!

[noazmale]

SIX

“You can’t die?” Prue’s disbelief was obvious in her tone.

“Precisely. How old would you say I am?”

“Twenty-five or so.”

“In fact, I am over one hundred thirty years old. One hundred thirty six to be precise. I war born in a small village in England just outside of London in 1866. Everything appeared normal until I reached the age of twenty-four. That year I contracted a fever. It was quite virulent and the doctors said I would never survive.

“However I did survive. Against all odds, as I believe the saying goes. Since that day I have been quite immortal. I don’t appear to age and any damage I suffer is repaired quite quickly. A simple cut is normally healed within moments. The injuries I sustained in the car accident last night were considerably more severe. It took longer for me to heal than I had anticipated.”

“You expect me to believe you just went to sleep one night and woke up immortal?”

“Well, it was a bit more complicated than that, but, yes, essentially that’s what happened. It’s still a bit of a mystery why. Over the years I’ve had virtually every aspect of my physiology examined and analyzed. The scientists who work for me have yet to discern a cause.”

“So what does all this have to do with me?”

“Quite simply I need your help. You see I am aware of many aspects that the average person is not. The existence of magic and witches to name just a couple. And of course the existence of demons as well. Under normal circumstances such things would be of little interest to me. Except perhaps as a minor passing diversion from time to time.”

“I’ll repeat the question. What does this have to do with me?”

“Some time ago a particular demon took an interest in me. Over the past few years this demon has been pursuing me wherever I go. It seems he is interested in learning the secret to my immortality. Something about being invincible to his enemies.”

“I thought you said no one was able to discover why you’re immortal?”

“They haven’t. But I assume this demon has some way to obtain this information. Most likely a magical means not available to the scientists I employ. Now if I understand correctly, a demon who is invincible would not be a very good thing.”

“At least in that you’re right. So what do you want me to do?”

“I want you to dispatch the demon for me. It seems quite impervious to normal weapons. So far my security personnel have been able to protect me from it. But I’m no fool, Prue. I realize that no matter how good they may be odds are that the demon will eventually succeed. If that should happen I doubt very seriously if I would enjoy the subsequent ordeal.”

“So all you want is for me to vanquish a demon for you?”

“Vanquish? Is that the term you use? Yes, that’s what I was hoping for. So far only the single demon has made any attempts to get at me. I assume it is working alone. Probably doesn’t want others of it’s kind to know about me so that it can keep the secret all for itself.”

“And you think I can vanquish this demon for you?”

“I understand that’s what witches do. Vanquish demons. Protect the innocent and all that. I told you, I know of such things. When I was a young man – relatively speaking of course – there were many people who openly believed in such things. And, yes, I believe you can vanquish it for me.

“I am also willing to pay you quite handsomely for your time and effort. Enough so that you need never again worry about having to work. You could name your price. It would be worth anything to be rid of this demon once and for all.”

Prue thought for a moment. This man seemed to know a great deal about her. Except he had never once mentioned the name the Charmed Ones. If he were a demon it would be very unlikely that he would know as much as he did without also knowing she was a Charmed One.

And it was her job to vanquish demons. To protect the innocent. Even if he was immortal, he was still an innocent. He was also right about something else. If a demon could discover the secret to his immortality it would make the demon extremely formidable.

“Actually, I like working,” she said finally. “But if I do help you, there is something you can do for me.”

“Allow you to photograph me,” said Van White, smiling at her.

“You did say name my price. It would be quite a coup for me to get a picture of the enigmatic Steffan Van White. And that was my assignment. I’ll help you in exchange for a photograph suitable for publication.”

“I dislike having my photograph taken, as I’m sure you can imagine. However, I suppose for ridding me of this nuisance it would be a suitable payment. Very well. Once you have disposed of the demon I shall allow you to have one – and only one – photograph that you may publish in your magazine.”

“It may take more than one shot to get the right one.”

“I am aware of that. You may take as many as you need to get the one you need. However, you may keep only one for publication. I shall keep the rest. Including the negatives.”

“Agreed. What does this demon look like? If I’m going to vanquish it I’ll need to know what I’m fighting.”

“I’ve only seen it in its human form,” said Van White. “Just over six feet tall with blonde hair. More than this I can’t tell you. Oh, I do know that it carries a small stone that glows. I can only assume that’s how it’s been able to track me.”

“Fine. I’ll need to go home and do some research. And I’m going to need some help. You know where I live. Come to the manor tomorrow. With any luck I should be able to figure out what this demon is and how to vanquish it. If we can lure it to the manor we’ll stand a better chance of stopping it there. We’re strongest at the manor.”

“We?” Van White questioned.

“My sisters and me,” said Prue. “It’s kind of a long story. I’ll explain it all to you tomorrow.”

“Very well. Rupert is waiting outside for you. As promised your camera will be returned to you undamaged. Until tomorrow then.”

Prue exited the suite and headed for the lobby. She wasn’t sure exactly what she was going to tell the others. This was turning into one of the strangest days of her life.

[vanillabliss]

I really like where this is going.

[noazmale]

SEVEN

“Are you sure it’s okay for you to be home?” Prue asked Phoebe back at the manor.

“The doctor says if I take it easy I’ll be okay,” said Phoebe. “I was just dehydrated. Nothing serious.”

“As long as you get treated for it,” added Leo.

“What about this Steffan Van White?” Piper asked. “You say he asked you to vanquish a demon for him?”

“Yes,” said Prue. “Leo, do you know of any demon like he described?”

“That’s hard to say,” said Leo. “It’s not much to go on. A demon that’s blonde in its human form? That could describe just about any demon. What about this stone he described? Anything more than that?”

“Not really,” said Prue. “Just that it glows.”

“Could he be a demon?” Victor asked. “Maybe he’s setting you up?”

“I don’t think so,” said Prue. “He didn’t seem to know I was a Charmed One, just a witch. It’s hard to believe he’d know I was a witch and not a Charmed One.”

“Speaking of which,” said Piper, “how did he know you were a witch anyway?”

“He said he recognized what I was,” said Prue. “Is that possible, Leo? Can he recognize me as a witch?”

“I suppose it’s possible,” said Leo. “From what you’ve said it sounds like his genetic code may have been altered by that fever he described. Although I don’t know of any fever that can do that. I suppose part of that change could be an ability to recognize a witch.”

“It seems unlikely,” said Phoebe.

“How else do you explain that he knew what I was?” Prue asked. “It’s not like we’re exactly listed in the yellow pages or anything.”

“I don’t know,” said Phoebe. “But it seems a bit convenient to me. We run into him for the first time and the next morning he knows everything about you?”

“He could have been magically drawn to you,” said Leo. “Your magic not only protects you it helps guide you to people who may need your help. That could be what’s going on here.”

“And he is one of the richest men in the United States,” said Victor. “With that kind of money he can find out just about anything he wants on anyone he wants. He probably has private investigators on retainer who find out all kinds of things about people he deals with.”

“I’ll check with the Elders,” said Leo. “They might know something about him. It’s a long shot but at I’ll see if they know anything.”

“He’s coming over here tomorrow,” said Prue. “We should be able to get some more information from him then. And we’re strongest at the manor. If we can track down the demon our best chance of vanquishing it is here.”

“I’ll check the Book of Shadows while Leo is off checking with the Elders,” said Prue. “Piper, what about some kind of generic vanquishing potion?”

“I’m not sure there is such a thing,” said Piper. “But I’ll see what I can come up with.”

“Make two,” said Prue. “Just in case our Mr. Van White isn’t the innocent he claims to be.”

“I’ll help you with the book,” said Phoebe. “Maybe we can find out some more about this immortality he seems to have.”

“No you don’t,” said Prue sternly. “You just got out of the hospital. You need to rest. And drink plenty of fluids. You need to get rehydrated.”

“But,” Phoebe began to protest.

“She’s right, honey,” said Victor. “Besides, there isn’t much for me to do. You can keep me company while the others prepare for whatever this is.”

“Well, okay,” said Phoebe reluctantly. “We don’t get to spend enough time together anyway.”

Leo orbed out to the White Lighter realm while Piper went into the kitchen to start preparing the potions. Prue headed for the attic and the Book of Shadows. As she did she thought how at ease she had felt with Steffan Van White. She hadn’t mentioned this to the others. It was very unsettling. With all the demons out to get them it was not like her to be so outgoing with a stranger. There was more going on with Steffan Van White than an unexplained immortality.

* * *

“The Elders still have nothing,” Leo reported. “If this Steffan Van White really is immortal they have no information on it. Which in itself is suspicious. They said you need to find out as much about what’s going on as you can.”

“Well, now there’s a news flash,” said Prue sarcastically. “Why didn’t we think of that? I also didn’t find out anything about him in the Book of Shadows. There was nothing at all on a Steffan Van White or any demon like he described. But like Leo said, we do have so little to go on.”

“What about immortality?” Phoebe asked. “Did you find anything out about it?”

“Not much,” said Prue. “Nothing that would help us here.”

“Well, the potion isn’t coming along too well,” said Piper. “Like I said, I don’t think there is such a thing as a generic vanquishing potion. It’s hard to create a potion without gearing it to a specific person or creature.”

“Well, we should be able to find out some more about him when he comes here tomorrow,” said Prue. “But everyone needs to be on their guard. If he is a demon he might try something. Dad, under the circumstances maybe it would be best if you weren’t here.”

“Well I do have a meeting to prepare for,” said . “And I’d probably just be in the way if something happened. But I do have some resources of my own. I could see what I can find out about Steffan Van White. Things that might not be common knowledge.”

“That’s a good idea,” said Prue. “If he isn’t a demon he might be up to no good in some other way. Whatever he’s up to we need to know about it.”

“Okay,” said Victor. “I’ll see what I can find out and let you know. Just promise me you’ll be careful. I know Leo can heal you and all but I’d rather he didn’t have to.”

“That’s always our goal, too, dad,” said Piper, kissing him on the cheek. “And we will be careful. We promise.”

“Good,” said Victor, looking at his watch. “Well, I’d better get going. I’ll call if I come up with anything.”

“I’m glad he’s not going to be here,” said Phoebe. “He’s not really prepared if this Steffan Van White is a demon and decides to try something.”

“Well, you still need to get some rest,” said Prue. “Piper and I can make the preparations for our meeting with Van White. You need to go upstairs and lie down.”

“Okay,” said Phoebe. “Just let me know if you need me for anything.”

“We will, sweetie,” said Piper.

[noazmale]

EIGHT

“Mr. Van White, these are my sisters Piper and Phoebe,” Prue introduced the next day. “And this is Piper’s fiancé, Leo.”

“A pleasure to meet you all,” said Van White. “And, please, call me Steffan.”

“Prue said there was a demon after you,” said Piper.

“Yes,” said Van White. “I’m sure she’s filled you in on everything by now. This demon is after me to learn the secret to my immortality. And while he can’t hurt me it is possible that others might be hurt by him trying to get to me. I wouldn’t like to have that on my conscience”

“I see you got your personal affects back,” said Phoebe, noticing the rings and watch on Van White’s hands.

“Yes, I did,” said Van White. “It was a simple matter, really. They are my property, after all.”

“Those are interest rings,” said Leo. “Family heirlooms?”

“After a fashion,” said Van White. “I’ve had them since I was young. I hope to one day pass them onto my children.”

“You have children?” questioned Phoebe.

“Not yet but there is always that possibility,” Van White said with a smile. “After all, being immortal means I have time.”

“Prue said you gained your immortality after suffering from a fever,” said Leo. “I’d be interested in learning more about this fever. I’ve never heard of anything affecting someone that way.”

“I’m afraid I can’t tell you much,” said Van White. “It was striking everywhere. The doctors never did figure out what caused it. It stopped as suddenly as it started. And as far as I know very little was discovered about it. Are you a physician?”

“Not exactly,” said Leo nervously. “I do have some medical training. We just need to know as much as possible if we are to help you.”

“Speaking of which,” said Prue, “what more can you tell us about this demon that’s after you? We haven’t been able to learn very much about him aside from what you’ve all ready told us. We need to know everything you know about him.”

“Well, I’m afraid there isn’t much. I first encountered him a couple of years ago. I don’t know how he knew but he knew about my immortality. I’ve been very careful to safeguard that secret for reasons I’m sure you can understand. Anyway, he said he wanted to learn the secret to my immortality. I was able to escape him but he’s been hounding me ever since.”

“And you say you’ve never seen him in his demonic form?” Piper asked.

“No, I haven’t. I assume he appears only in his human form to keep from being suspected of what he truly is. He’s about thirty-five with blonde, shoulder-length hair. He does appear to be more attractive than your average man. And his strength is incredible.”

“What about this stone you mentioned?” Prue asked. “You said it glows. What can you tell us about that?”

“Again, I’m afraid not very much. I’ve only seen it a few times. As I told you yesterday, it has a bluish glow to it. It appears to be how he is able to track me. How or why it works I cannot say. Other than that it doesn’t appear to have any other properties.”

“It might be a tracking stone,” said Leo. “They were created by alchemists centuries ago and are used to track certain creatures. It’s possible this demon has one of these stones, although what type it is isn’t clear.”

“What do you mean what type?” Phoebe asked.

“Originally they were created to track only a specific creature,” said Leo. “As the alchemists became more adept at creating them their powers were expanded. Allowing the tracker to track more than one type of creature. There are a few rare ones that allow the tracker to track any creature they want.”

“So that’s how demons can track other creatures?” Prue asked.

“Oh, not just demons,” interjected Van White. “I’ve heard of these tracking stones. While they are used a great deal by demons they are also used by other creatures. On occasion even humans have been known to use them.”

“You seem to know a great many things,” said Piper.

“As I told Prue, I come from an age when belief in magic and demons was prevalent,” said Van White. “The advance of mans’ science does not necessarily negate that belief. Oh, it may change the nature of our understanding of such things but magic and science are not mutually exclusive. And in my long life I have learned many things.”

“If the demon does have a tracking stone,” said Leo, “he can track Van White wherever he goes. From my understanding it can track someone even across other dimensions.”

“Which means he’ll come here eventually,” said Prue. “And it probably won’t take very long, either. Piper you need to get that potion finished. Phoebe, what about a spell? Something we can use against the demon?”

“I’ll see what I can come up with,” said Phoebe.

“I’m not sure about a potion,” said Piper. “Like I said, it’s hard to come up with a potion when I don’t know what we’re up against.”

“Just do your best,” said Prue.

“I think I’ll go back upstairs,” said Leo. “With this new information I might be able to find out something we didn’t know before.”

“Okay,” said Prue. “In the mean time we’ll wait for this demon to attack. If he’s as set on getting Steffan as it appears he probably won’t wait long to come get him. Just everyone be ready when he gets here.”

Leo went upstairs and Piper went into the kitchen. Phoebe got a pad and pen and began to work on a spell they could use against the demon. Prue sat talking with Van White to see if there was any more information – no matter how small – he might remember about the demon.

* * *

Standing across the street from the manor was a man with blonde hair. He looked at a stone that was glowing a purplish color. He looked up from the stone at the front door to the manor.

Witches, the man thought to himself. So his opponent had enlisted the aid of witches to protect him.

He had no fear of witches. Any more than he had any fear of the demons that had attempted to assault him in the alley earlier. But they could distract him from his prey. A direct assault was not an option. This called for a more subtle approach. He needed a tactical advantage. Silently he turned and walked up the street away from manor.

* * *

Piper had barely entered the kitchen when Leo suddenly orbed in.

“I thought you were going to see the Elders?”

“I am. But I needed to warn you first.”

“Warn me? About what?”

Van White isn’t telling us everything. You saw those rings he was wearing. They aren’t ordinary rings. The designs on them are very reminiscent of magical incantations that were used centuries ago. They look familiar but I don’t think I’ve seen those exact glyphs before. But whatever they are they’re more than just decorative like most rings. My guess is they’re some kind of magic that he controls.”

“You think that’s how he’s able to be immortal?”

“I doubt it. He wasn’t wearing the rings when he was in the hospital. Without them he wouldn’t have access to whatever magic they possess. I’ll see what I can find out about them from the Elders but you three need to be very careful. There’s more going on here than just a demon trying to learn the secret to Van White’s immortality.”

“Okay,” said Piper. “I’ll let Prue and Phoebe know. You just get back here as quickly as you can. We may need you.”

“I will,” said Leo, kissing her lightly. Without another word he orbed out of the kitchen.

[vanillabliss]

awww love it!

[noazmale]

NINE

Prue and Van White had been talking for only a short time when he suddenly got a phone call. He took out his cell phone and answered it.

“Are you sure? . . . Do you know who it is? . . . So why does it concern me? I can’t see how this is of the slightest interest to me. . . . I see. Yes, well that does make a difference. I’ll take care of it as soon as I can. Goodbye.”

“What was that all about?” Phoebe asked.

“Oh nothing really important. Just some business I’ll have to attend to eventually. Considering the current circumstances I’m sure it can wait. I’m feeling a bit fatigued. Would it be possible for me to lie down for a while? I’m afraid all this excitement is beginning to take its toll.”

“Sure,” said Prue. “You can use my bedroom. It’s the first door on the right at the top of the stairs.”

“Thank you,” said Van White.

“You sure it’s a good idea to have him in your room?” Phoebe asked after Van White had gone upstairs. “We really don’t know that much about him.”

“I don’t think he’ll be much of a problem up there. Besides, he’ll be okay for the time being. We need to decide what we’re going to do and we can’t do that with him hanging around.”

“Where’s Van White?” Piper asked coming out of the kitchen.

“He went upstairs to lie down,” said Prue. “It will give us a chance to talk and decide what we’re going to do.”

“Good,” said Piper. “Leo told me some things you need to know.” She told them what Leo had told her. “He’s going to check with the Elders and let us know what he finds out.”

“Any idea what these rings do?” Phoebe asked.

“Not yet,” said Piper. “But if he was really wanting our help with a demon it doesn’t make any sense that he’d hold anything back. Whatever he’s hiding I’m betting it’s not good. So it would seem that we not only have an unknown demon to contend with but Van White as well.”

“We could just ask him what he’s really up to?” suggested Phoebe. “He’d be crazy to go against us here in the manor.”

“He’d just tell us what he’s all ready told us,” said Prue. “He’d feign ignorance and pretend he had no idea what we were talking about.”

“So why come to us in the first place?” Piper asked. “We had no idea who he was. And like dad said, with his money he can pretty much do whatever he wants. Why bother with us? What’s he after?”

“I don’t know,” said Prue. “But whatever it is we probably won’t have long to wait until we find out. It might be just as he said. That he wants us to get rid of this demon for him. Maybe for some reason he can’t do it himself. At any rate we know we have one demon to deal with. Whatever he’s planning probably won’t happen until we deal with the demon. So just be ready once the demon is vanquished.”

“Let’s just hope Leo finds out something,” said Piper. “So that we can at least be prepared when he does make his move.”

“I’m sure he’ll find something,” said Phoebe. “If he recognized those symbols on Van White’s rings the Elders will probably know exactly what they are. That should at least tell us what he is and it might tell us what he’s after.”

“I hope so,” said Prue.

* * *

Leo wasn’t gone very long. Van White had been upstairs barely ten minutes when Leo suddenly orbed into the living room.

“Anything new?” Prue asked.

“Not on the demon,” said Leo. “The Elders still don’t have enough information to determine what type it is. But I do have some news on those rings that Van White is wearing. Where is he anyway?”

“He’s resting,” said Prue. “What do you have?”

“Well,” said Leo, “just as I thought, the designs on the rings are actually ancient glyphs. They’re used to enchant items such as rings and imbue them with special abilities. Whoever wears the rings has full use of whatever abilities they’re imbued with.”

“Any idea what kinds of powers are in Van White’s rings?” Prue asked.

“Not without getting a closer look at the glyphs on them,” said Leo. “Those particular types of glyphs were used predominantly by alchemists centuries ago.”

“That’s the second time alchemists have come up,’ said Piper. “Could Van White be an alchemist?”

“It’s a possibility,” said Leo. “There aren’t that many still around. Alchemy was the forerunner of chemistry. It was replaced by chemistry sometime in the 19th century. Most alchemists are of a magical nature but the Elders don’t have an exact count of just how many there are.”

“Are they demons?” Phoebe asked.

“Technically, alchemists are like witches,” said Leo. “They’re human just with special abilities. But they aren’t inherently evil like demons. Many are evil but there are a number who are also good. But I don’t think it’s likely that Van White is an alchemist. Like demons, alchemists prefer anonymity. He’s not likely to draw attention to himself as Van White has. I think it’s more likely that he has contact with an alchemist.”

“Well, I for one have heard enough,” said Prue. “I don’t think it’s coincidence that Van White and this supposed demon are both using things created by an alchemist.”

“Assuming Van White was telling the truth,” said Piper. “We’ve never even seen this so-called demon. It all might be an elaborate ploy.”

“That’s very possible,” said Prue. “But we aren’t going to get any answers down here. I say we go have a chat with Mr. Steffan Van White and make him tell us exactly what’s going on here.”

“Sounds good to me,” said Phoebe.

“And just how do you propose to do that?” Leo asked.

“We’re witches,” said Prue. “I’m sure between the three of us we can manage to persuade Mr. Van White to come clean.”

“I’m not sure that’s a good idea,” said Leo. “We still have no idea what those rings of his do.”

“Then I say we go find out,” said Prue, heading for the stairs. “Anyone care to join me?”

Everyone followed Prue upstairs to her room. She didn’t hesitate but swung the door open wide and stepped inside.

“Okay, Mr. Van White,” she said. “I think it’s time we had a little chat. And we have some questions we’d like you to answer.”

She was met with silence. The room was quite empty. Prue noticed that the bed was not mussed showing that no one had lain on it since Prue had made it that morning. A quick search of the remainder of the house proved futile. Steffan Van White had simply appeared to vanish from the manor.

[jenna]

This is really good!

[noazmale]

TEN

“Where did he go?” Phoebe asked. “He said he was going to lie down because he was tired.”

“Obviously he was lying about that,” said Prue. “And I’ll bet it has something to do with that phone call he got. So where did he go and how did he get out of the manor without us noticing it?”

“I don’t know about where,” said Leo, “but as for how it might be one of his rings. Some form of movement power is usually incorporated into rings like that. Teleportation, blinking, even orbing has been known to be incorporated into those rings.”

“Orbing?” questioned Piper. “They can duplicate White Lighter powers?”

“An experienced enough alchemist can duplicate almost any power,” said Leo. “But incorporating them into a ring is extremely difficult. I would imagine those two rings Van White has were very expensive if they have even only one power each.”

“They can put more than one power in a ring?” Prue asked.

“Up to three can be put into a single ring,” said Leo. “Depending on the powers. The more powerful a power is the fewer powers can be put into the rings. So it’s possible that besides his immortality Van White has up to five additional powers at his disposal.”

“They can’t be very powerful,” said Piper. “If they were Van White wouldn’t need our help with his demon.”

“Not necessarily,” said Leo. “It could be that the powers in the rings aren’t enough or the right type to battle the demon. You know as well as I do that not all powers work on all demons. Some demons are immune to certain powers.”

“Okay, our first order of business is to figure out where Van White went,” said Prue. “And it seems to me a good place to start would be his hotel suite. There might be something there that could give us an idea who – and what – he really is. He’s staying in suite 1214 at the Regency Hotel.”

“I can orb you there,” said Leo.

“Let’s get going,” said Piper. “I don’t feel right with him on the loose not knowing what’s going on.”

They all linked arms and Leo orbed them immediately to Van White’s suite. As they orbed in they found him sitting at the desk working on his computer. He looked up in surprise at the four standing in front of him.

“You didn’t say goodbye,” said Prue. “That was very naughty of you.”

“I had some business to take care of,” said Van White nonchalantly.

“Except you didn’t leave by the front door,” said Piper. “That’s very odd. Especially since you claim a demon is after you.”

“Yes, that’s true,” said Van White. “I hadn’t planned to be gone long. I was hoping to be back before you noticed I was missing.”

“Well, it’s the way you left that interests us,” said Phoebe. “Apparently your rings are something more than just heirlooms.”

“So you’ve discovered my secret,” said Van White. “So I guess that would mean that Leo is one of these White Lighters I’ve heard about. It would also explain how you got here. Just what type of transportation is that anyway?”

“We’re asking the questions here,” said Prue. “How did you get out of the manor?”

“With this,” said Van White, holding up his right hand and exhibiting the ring he wore on it. “I’m not exactly sure what it’s called but it allows me to move from one place to another undetected. It comes in quite handy.”

“I can imagine,” said Piper. “What other little surprises do your rings hold?”

“That’s unimportant at the moment,” said Van White. “What is important is that just before you appeared here I got a call from my head of security. It appears that a blonde gentleman is making his way to my suite as we speak. And apparently none of my security personnel are equipped to deal with him.”

“Blonde?” questioned Phoebe. “The demon.”

“Obviously,” said Van White. “And I would estimate that he should arrive here right . . .”

Suddenly the door burst open. The hinges from the door gave way and the door slid across the floor. Everyone turned to face the door.

“. . . about now,” Van White finished.

Standing in the doorway was a man about thirty-five years old. His clean-shaven face a stark contrast to the shaggy blonde hair swinging freely around his shoulders. In one hand he held a small stone that was glowing a purplish color. In the other hand he held an athame that was serrated on both edges.

“Damn,” swore the man. “He was supposed to be alone.” He had a strange accent that neither the girls nor Leo could place.

“Sorry to disappoint you,” said Prue. “But he’s under our protection. I don’t know what you want with him but you’ll have to go through us to get him.”

“I do not fear witches,” said the man. “I fear nothing. And he will be mine. I’ll have what I came for and none of you will stop me.”

“Leo, get him out of here,” said Piper. “We’ll handle our friend here.”

Leo stepped over and took Van White’s arm. As he orbed them both out of the room the girls took up defensive stances. Prue raised her hands and the demon was knocked back into the hallway. He was instantly on his feet and charged into the room holding the athame menacingly.

Piper raised her hands and the demon instantly froze in place. Prue raised her hand again and the athame the demon was holding was suddenly wrenched from his grasp. It flew across the room and landed hilt first in her hand. Suddenly the demon broke free of Piper’s freeze. He stopped his forward movement and stood staring at the girls.

“You have no idea who you’re protecting,” said the demon. “It is my understanding that it is your job to protect the innocent. The one you protect is far from innocent.”

“That has yet to be seen,” said Prue. “But we’ve vanquished enough of your kind to know how to deal with you. As long as he’s under our protection you aren’t going to get anywhere near him. We know what you’re after and we aren’t going to let you have it.”

“You’re all fools,” said the demon. “You can’t stop me. You have no power over me. Neither you nor anyone else will stop me from having what I want. Be warned. I have no interest or quarrel with you. But oppose me again and I will not be so tolerant.”

Without warning the demon turned and ran from the room. The girls gave chase but he was incredibly fast and he disappeared down the stairs before they could reach him. As they reached the stairway they saw a door closing several floors below. They realized their prey had escaped.

“Leo,” Prue called into the air. Immediately Leo orbed into the hallway next to them, Van White in tow. “The demon got away. But he as much as said he was coming back again. We need to get back to the manor so we can prepare for him.”

Leo orbed them all back to the manor. As they appeared in the living room, Cole came walking out of the kitchen.

“Well,” said Cole, “I was wondering where everyone was.”

“Cole,” Phoebe squealed as she ran over to hug him. “When did you get back?”

“Just now,” said Cole, glancing at Van White suspiciously. “I see we have company.”

“Yeah,” said Prue. “It seems he has a demon after him.”

“Really?” Cole questioned flatly. “Well, that hardly seems likely.”

“I beg your pardon,” Van White seemed genuinely puzzled. “Have we met?”

“Once,” Cole said shortly. “It was a very long time ago.”

“Cole?” Phoebe was getting nervous at the tenseness she sensed in Cole. “ I don’t understand. Do you know Mr. Van White?”

“Van White?” Cole questioned with a snort. “Is that the name you’re going by now?”

“Certainly,” said Van White. “It is my name, after all.”

“Oh, but it’s not the name you were born with,” said Cole. “Granted I was very young at the time. But I still remember when we met. Of course, you didn’t go by the name Van White then. As I recall, your name was Gray. Dorian Gray.”

“Belthazor,” gasped Van White.

[noazmale]

ELEVEN

“Dorian Gray?” Phoebe’s eyes widened with surprise. “That’s a coincidence. We just read a book in my English Lit class called ‘The Picture Of Dorian Gray’.”

“Not so much a coincidence,” said Cole. “My mother told me that book is – loosely – based on our friend here.”

“A fever, huh?” Prue asked turning to Gray. “Well, Mr. Gray, it seems you’ve been less than honest with us. Obviously someone is after you. But I’m willing to bet it’s not for the reasons you gave us. Care to tell us the truth now?”

“Just what did he tell you?” Cole asked.

“He said a demon was after him to learn the secret to his immortality,” said Piper.

“Oh, I find that hard to believe,” Cole said archly. “Most demons are all ready immortal. It would be like one of you wanting to learn the secret to how someone breathes.”

“Well, it appears that you’ve lied to us from the beginning about everything Mr. Gray,” said Prue. “Now, while we’re still feeling in a generous mood, I think you’d better start explaining yourself. Otherwise we’re likely to just turn you over to whoever or whatever that was that attacked you in your suite.”

“I don’t think so,” said Gray smiling. “You see, I didn’t lie to you. He really is after the secret to my immortality. Only it’s not like most demonic immortality. I not only am not affected by the passage of time, I also cannot be killed. And since it appears my little charade has been exposed, I suppose I’ll just have to find someone else to dispose of my problem for me.”

Suddenly Gray just vanished from the manor.

“He blinked,” said Piper. “Wait a minute. That means he’s a warlock. Only a warlock can blink.”

“He’s no warlock,” said Cole.

“Then how can he blink?” Phoebe asked.

“Probably his rings,” said Leo. “That must be one of the powers he has in his rings.”

“An alchemists’ ring?” Cole questioned.”

“That’s what the Elders say,” said Prue. “Leo explained to us how they work.”

“I guess his immortality wasn’t the only thing Dorian got from that alchemist,” said Cole.

“How do you know him?” Prue asked.

“Like I said earlier,” said Cole, “it was a very long time ago. I was about three at the time. I guess it was about 1887 or 88. My mother had made a deal with an alchemist. Because I had inherited my demonic power from her she wanted to enhance that power. To make me more powerful than most demon-human hybrids.”

“Wasn’t that about the time your mother murdered your father?” Phoebe asked.

“Yes,” said Cole. “In fact, it was why she murdered my father.”

“Okay, now I’m confused,” said Piper.

“Well, initially my father didn’t know my mother was a demon,” said Cole. “When I was born, she decided that I should be raised as a demon. But most demon-human offspring are virtually powerless, compared to other demons. My mother didn’t want that for me.

“So she found an alchemist. He promised her that he could increase my power. She had taken me to meet the alchemist when my father suddenly showed up. He discovered what she was and tried to take me away. But he was just a human. He was no match for her demonic powers. She murdered him as I watched.”

“And you remember that?” Phoebe asked. “You were only three? How could you remember something from when you were so young?”

“Demonic children aren’t like human children,” said Cole. “They remember things from a younger age. It’s actually one of my very first memories. It’s part of the reason that I gave no value to human life for so long. My mother taught me that human life wasn’t worth valuing.”

“How does Gray fit into all this?” Leo asked.

“Well, in exchange for increasing my power, the alchemist wanted a human for an experiment. My mother promised to provide him with a test subject in exchange for increasing my power. Gray was that test subject.”

“And he agreed to being a test subject for a demonic experiment?” Piper asked.

“He really didn’t have much of a choice,” said Cole. “He had been diagnosed with consumption. Tuberculosis. In those days there was virtually nothing they could do for someone with that. He knew that diagnosis was a literal death sentence. Obviously he didn’t want to die, especially the type of horrible death someone with tuberculosis had. So he consented to the experiment. I guess he figured the worst that could happen was that he would die, which he was going to do anyway.”

“He told us he suffered from a fever,” said Prue.

“Not surprising,” said Cole. “He’d want to keep the specifics of his immortality a secret from everyone. He’d be afraid that someone might be able to undo it.”

“He called you Belthazor,” said Phoebe turning to Cole.

“Yes,” said Cole. “That’s how my mother usually referred to me when other humans weren’t around. She wanted me totally immersed in the underworld and always thought that calling me by my human name detracted from that. I don’t think Gray ever knew my human name.”

“Phoebe,” said Prue, “you said you read a book about Gray.”

“Yes, ‘The Picture Of Dorian Gray’,” said Phoebe. “It’s a classic. It’s about this man who has a portrait of himself painted and then wishes he would never grow old. Well, his wish was granted. I don’t really remember why. I remember thinking I didn’t care much for the book. But what I do remember is that after that, the Dorian Gray in the book didn’t age. And he never showed any affects of any injuries he received.

“But his portrait did. It aged instead of him and any injuries he suffered appeared in the painting instead of him. By the end of the book his portrait was almost unrecognizable. It looked nothing like it had when it was painted.”

“And you think this is the same Dorian Gray that’s in this book?” Piper asked Cole.

“Actually, it is,” said Cole. “I don’t know the specifics but I do know that the alchemist accomplished making Gray immortal using a painting somehow. And as a coincidence, one of Gray’s close drinking buddies at this time was one Oscar Wilde.”

“The writer?” Leo questioned.

“Not just a writer,” said Phoebe. “He was the author of ‘The Picture Of Dorian Gray’. You think Gray told Wilde what happened?”

“Probably not,” said Cole. “More than likely Gray probably said something one night when he had too much to drink. That’s probably where Wilde got the idea for his book from.”

“So, what happens in the end?” Prue asked. “What happened to the Dorian Gray in the story?”

“He became completely immoral,” said Phoebe. “He led a completely hedonistic and selfish lifestyle. He even killed some people completely without remorse. One day he became disillusioned with his life. In a fit of anger he stabbed the painting with a knife. When people found him, the painting was completely restored to what it was before. And all the affects it had suffered were transferred back to Gray, including the knife they found sticking in his heart. He was dead.”

“So you’re saying Gray was evil,” said Piper.

“As evil as they come,” said Phoebe. “He had money so he could pretty much do whatever he wanted to do without having to worry about an income.”

“And from what I’ve heard over the years,” said Cole, “the book seems to emulate Gray’s real life. He may not be a demon but I know some demons who envy how evil he is. I lost track of him in the late forties. Last I heard he was living in some European country.”

“Okay,” said Prue. “So apparently just about everything Gray told us from the beginning was a lie. The question is, what does he want with us?”

“I think he might have been telling the truth about that,” said Leo. “That demon was definitely after him. And that athame the demon had didn’t look like a gift to me. I think he wanted you to rid him of the demon.”

“He did say he’d have to find someone else to dispose of his problem for him,” said Phoebe. “I think he meant that in reference to this demon.”

“If he can’t be killed,” said Cole, “as he intimated, then that kind of an ability would be of great use to a demon. They wouldn’t have to worry about being vanquished by any witches they went up against.”

“If Gray is as evil as Phoebe and Cole say he is,” said Piper, “I don’t think we can only worry about the demon. He may be human but it’s obvious the police won’t be able to handle him. There’s no telling how many people he might all ready have killed. I think we have to stop Gray so he doesn’t kill anyone in the future.”

“I agree with Piper,” said Phoebe. “From what I remember in the book, Dorian Gray didn’t care who he hurt or how. If we don’t stop him he’ll just go on hurting and even killing people.”

“That sounds good and all,” said Cole, “except we have no way of knowing where he is. I don’t think he’s likely to go back to wherever you found him. And with his money, he’s able to very easily disappear and create a whole new identity for himself.”

“That’s true,” said Prue. “But I think I know how we can find Mr. Gray no matter where he goes or what identity he assumes.”

“And just how do you propose to do that?” Leo asked.

“The demon that’s been tracking him,” said Prue. “It appears that demon can track him no matter where he goes. All we do is get the demon to lead us to him.”

“What demon?” Cole questioned. “What kind of demon?”

“We really don’t know,” said Piper. “All we know is that he’s blonde. We’ve only seen him once and that was in his human form. But we know even less about it than we do about Gray. We don’t even know where to find it.”

“There’s no way for me to know which demon it is based on that,” said Cole. “How do you propose we find this demon?”

“With this,” said Prue, holding up the athame she had taken from the demon. “This belongs to the demon. We can use it to scry for the demon and then we convince it to lead us to Gray.”

“And just how do you think you’re going to do that?” Leo asked.

“By agreeing not to vanquish it if it does,” said Prue. “Self-preservation is one of the greatest motivators I know.”