Origins

[noazmale]

CHARMED
"Origins"
By J. B. Tilton
email: [e-mail]
Rating: K+ (for mild language)

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 “Pre Witched” and “Sin Francisco”.

A very special thank you to Magic_Amethyst80 whose muse helped to inspire this story.)

* * *

The Elders and all the White Lighters suddenly and inexplicably loose their powers and it’s up to the Charmed Ones to discover what’s going on and how to correct it

* * *

ONE

The demon waited patiently in a darkened corner of the alley. It scanned the alley both ways to make sure it was alone. Other than a lone human female that was cautiously walking down the alley, there were no other people – or beings – present. The demon smiled.

Its mission was simple. Capture a human female for its master. It wasn’t the first time it had performed this mission. But with the appearance of the Charmed Ones a couple of years earlier, the missions were getting riskier. The youngest sister had the ability to see the future. Many times that led them to innocents in danger.

But there was no sign of those accursed witches. They couldn’t be everywhere. And it looked like this was one of those times when the demon could proceed unhindered. It waited until the human was nearly to it before it revealed itself.

The demon was nearly seven feet tall. Its skin was a dark black, allowing it to blend in quite well with the surrounding shadows. Its eyes were a dull yellow that glistened in the half-light of the moon overhead. It smiled at the woman.

“Walking alone after dark?” it said to the woman. “My, that’s such a dangerous thing to do. Especially in this part of town. Now you’ll see the foolishness in such a venture.”

As the demon started its advance on the startled woman, the wind in the alley began to pick up. The demon suddenly stopped and looked around. Something wasn’t right. He knew it wasn’t the Charmed Ones. They didn’t have the power to affect the wind. But it could sense something. Something powerful.

Suddenly a vortex opened several feet from the demon and its prey. Magic began to swirl within the vortex as a figure suddenly started to form within it. Within moments the demon and the woman stood staring at the figure as the vortex began to recede and vanish altogether.

The figure appeared to be human. It was as tall as the demon but much more muscular. It looked like a body builder. Huge muscular arms were crossed over the figures chest as it looked up, its eyes closed. He was dressed in what appeared to be some form of toga reminiscent of the type worn in ancient Rome or Greece. As the demon and woman stared at the figure, he opened his eyes and looked around.

“Who are you?” demanded the demon. “This female is my prey. I’ll not let you nor anyone interfere with my plans for her.”

The demon hurled a fireball at the figure. The weapon engulfed the figure covering him in flames. Within seconds the flames went out leaving the figure apparently unharmed. The demon stared at the figure in shocked disbelief. Realizing it had underestimated the situation, the demon began to shimmer away.

Before the demon could shimmer, the figure extended one hand and a thing blue beam shot from its palm. The beam struck the demon in the forehead, ending its shimmer. The woman stared in shock and horror as she watched the demon simply stare at the figure, offering no resistance.

Within seconds the demons eyes clouded over. The blue beam from the giant figure ceased and the figure looked around. As it did, the demon suddenly fell over, lying dead on the ground. The woman stared at the figure in total horror.

“This place,” the figure said looking at the woman. “It is called San Francisco?”

“Y….yes,” stammered the startled woman.

The figure eyed the woman for several moments. He seemed to be making a decision.

“You are mortal,” said the figure. “I have no use for you. Be gone.”

The figure turned and surveyed the street at the end of the alley. Realizing she had been granted a reprieve the woman turned and began to run in the opposite direction as fast as she could. The figure ignored the fleeing woman as it looked around drinking in everything its gaze fell upon.

[noazmale]

TWO

“So, how are the honeymooners?” Prue asked, coming into the living room.

Piper and Leo were sitting on the sofa talking. Although they hadn’t had the chance to take a real honeymoon, the past few days without demon attacks was a welcomed respite. They had spent that time together as much as possible.

“We’re fine,” Piper said. “Aren’t you supposed to be at work?”

“The shoot was cancelled,” Prue said. “One of the models got the flu so they’re going to reschedule. My boss said I’ve been working really hard lately so he let me take a couple of days off to relax. I can sure use it. After the fiasco I caused at your wedding, meeting the Angel of Death, and that last demon attack, I’m just about burned out.”

“You know we don’t blame you for the wedding,” Leo said. “One of the hazards of being a Charmed One, I’m afraid.”

“I know,” Prue said. “That doesn’t make me feel less guilty about what happened.”

“Just forget about it,” Piper said. “Ancient history. And everything worked out. Leo and I got married, your astral self seems to be behaving itself, and even the demons seem to have taken a holiday. Just sit down and relax.”

“Where’s Phoebe?” Prue asked, taking a seat in one of the chairs.

“I don’t know,” Piper said. “She and Cole left early this morning. I think they wanted to take advantage of the down time, too. Cole said something about a Parisian restaurant he used to frequent.”

“Parisian?” Prue questioned. “As in Paris, France?”

“At least they don’t have to worry about plane fare,” said Leo. “Cole can shimmer them there in a matter of seconds.”

“Yeah, but Paris?” Prue questioned. “As if we don’t have enough restaurants in San Francisco.”

“It’s not really the same,” Leo said. “Besides, you know what they say about Paris? It’s the city of love. I think it will do them good to get away for a while.”

“Just as long as they don’t run into any bounty hunters,” Piper said. “I don’t want them bringing any demons back with them. I’m enjoying this way too much.”

“I’m sure they’ll be careful,” said Leo, smiling.

“So, what’s for dinner?” Prue asked.

“How about pizza?” Piper asked.

“Pizza?” Prue questioned. “Let me get this straight. My sister – the professional chef – who won’t even set foot in a fast food restaurant, wants to order a pizza?”

“Sure, why not?” Piper asked. “I can slum with the best of them. Besides, I don’t really feel like cooking just now. I’d rather just sit here and enjoy being with my husband, if you don’t mind.”

“Fine with me,” Prue said. “Only no anchovies.”

“Hey, they give it flavor,” Piper joked.

“No anchovies,” Prue reiterated, laughing at her sister.

The pizza was nearly half gone when Phoebe and Cole shimmered into the manor. Phoebe and Cole were both dressed for a night on the town, even though it was still early afternoon. Phoebe looked at Piper eating her third slice of pizza and smiling.

“You’re eating pizza?” Phoebe asked. “Since when do you order take out pizza?”

“Since I don’t feel like cooking,” Piper said. “Help yourself. There’s plenty.”

“No thanks,” Phoebe said, patting her stomach. “I think I’ve had enough food for one day.”

“I told you it was one of the best restaurants around,” said Cole.

“Well,” said Phoebe, “I think I’d better get changed. I think I’m suffering from jet lag.”

“Shouldn’t that be shimmer lag?” questioned Prue, smiling coyly.

Everyone laughed as Phoebe headed for the stairs.

The rest of the afternoon was uneventful. After Phoebe and Cole’s trip to Paris, and the pizza the others had enjoyed, no one felt much like a normal dinner. They spent the time in the living room talking and enjoying each other’s company. Just as it was starting to get dark a figure orbed into the manor. He was about thirty, wearing casual attire, and had black hair. As he finished his orb, Leo sat up suddenly.

“Timothy?” Leo questioned. “What are you doing here?”

“I just thought I’d stop by and say hello,” said the White Lighter. “Steph is out on some fund raiser and I thought I’d come by and offer my congratulations to the new bride. Haven’t had a chance since the two of you got married.”

“This is Timothy Shanks,” Leo said the others. “He’s a White Lighter for a witch on the other side of town.”

“Well, glad to meet you,” said Piper. “And thanks. I’m glad some of you guys are happy for us.”

“Oh, quite a few of us are,” said Timothy. “A lot of us thought it should have been allowed a lot sooner. Too bad it took saving the Elders lives to make them come to their senses.”

“Some people are just kind of thick headed,” said Prue.

“Prue,” said Leo. “They’re the Elders. You shouldn’t talk about them that way.”

“Okay, so their they Elders,” said Prue. “That doesn’t make them perfect. Besides, what are they going to do? Uncharm me?”

“Can I get you anything?” Phoebe asked Timothy. “Coffee, a soda?”

“A soda would be nice,” Timothy said. “Steph is kind of a health freak. She always chides me when I eat or drink something that’s bad for me. I can’t seem to convince her that as a White Lighter it’s not the same as for a human.”

“I’m sure she just has your best interest at heart,” Piper said.

“And you must be Belthazor,” Timothy said, turning to Cole. “It’s a pleasure to meet you finally. You’re something of a celebrity among White Lighters. The famed Belthazor switching sides. And for the love of a witch, no less. Not exactly a common occurrence.”

“I prefer the name Cole Turner,” said Cole. “Belthazor is in the past, now. And with a little luck, he’ll stay there.”

“I didn’t mean to offend you,” said Timothy.

“You didn’t,” said Cole, smiling. “I realize it’s pretty hard for some to accept. Especially with my past.”

“Great,” said Timothy as Phoebe handed him a soda.

“Thanks,” he said, smiling. “I rarely get to drink one of these. But what Steph doesn’t know won’t hurt me.”

“Steph is the witch you’re assigned to?” Prue asked.

“Yes,” said Timothy. “Stephanie Morgan. “I’ve been her White Lighter for seven years now.”

“Timothy was one of my initiates,” Leo said. “I helped train him when he became a White Lighter.”

“And a better teacher I couldn’t have had,” Timothy said. “Leo was even instrumental at getting me assigned to Steph. Have I ever thanked you for that?”

“Only about a hundred times,” Leo said smiling. “I’m happy to see it worked out so well.”

“So am I,” said Timothy.

“It’s nice to see a White Lighter pop in for a social call,” Prue said. “Usually when someone just appears they’re trying to kill us.”

“Well,” said Timothy, “every White Lighter wants to come down here. To meet the famed Charmed Ones. You have no idea how jealous many of the White Lighters were when it was announced that Leo was going to….”

His statement went unfinished as Phoebe suddenly grabbed her head and fell to the floor crying out in pain. Everyone immediately rushed to help her wondering what was happening to her.

[piperminime]

Love it. I hope you do more!

[vanillabliss]

really interesting!

[noazmale]

THREE

“I’m fine,” said Phoebe lying on the sofa as Piper applied another cold compress to her forehead. “It only lasted a minute. But I’ve never experienced pain like that before.”

“What was it?” Leo asked.

“I think it was a premonition,” said Phoebe. “There was this really big guy. He was talking to another man. He said, ‘I am Damonculous and I’ve come for you, Elder.’ Then he attacked with some kind of blue beam of energy. I’m not sure who the other guy was because I couldn’t see him clearly. But he was wearing robes like the Elders wear.”

“Damonculous?” questioned Timothy. “I’ve never heard a name like that, have you, Leo?”

“No,” said Leo. “Maybe one of you should check the Book of Shadows to see if he’s in there.”

“Cole, what about you?” Prue asked. “Any clue to who or what this Damonculous might be?”

“Name doesn’t ring a bell,” said Cole. “It’s not a demonic name, I can tell you that.”

“I should check the book,” said Phoebe, trying to sit up. “I know what the guy looks like. I’ll have a better chance of finding him.”

“No you don’t,” said Piper, pushing Phoebe back down. “Your premonitions don’t usually affect you like this. You’re going to take it easy until we find out what’s going on.”

“I’ll check the book,” said Prue. “Anything else you can tell me about him?”

“He was wearing a toga,” Phoebe said.

“A toga?” questioned Prue. “Are you having premonitions about Animal House now?”

“Ha, ha, very funny,” said Phoebe. “No, it was like something out of ancient Greece. Or maybe Rome. And he was big. At least seven feet tall. He looked like a body builder or maybe a weight lifter.”

“A weight lifter in a toga?” Prue questioned. “That’s an interesting sounding demon.”

“I’m not sure he was a demon,” Phoebe said. “I don’t know why, but it didn’t feel like he was a demon.”

“Well, I’ll go see if I can find him in the book,” said Prue heading for the stairs.

“Maybe we should check with the Elders,” Timothy suggested.

“Let’s wait until Prue checks the Book of Shadows first,” Leo suggested. “No sense bothering them if we can get the information that way.”

“I’m fine,” Phoebe said, pulling the compress off her forehead. “It only lasted a split second. Maybe my power is increasing. They’re supposed to, you know. Maybe I just need to get used to this increase.”

“I don’t know,” said Leo. “Even if your powers are increasing, you shouldn’t have reacted that way. Besides, you weren’t touching anything. You know your power only works when you touch something. I think something else is going on here.”

“So,” said Piper, “this Damonculous was attacking an Elder? Does that mean he was up there?”

“No,” said Phoebe, “that’s the strangest part. It was right here in the manor. The Elder, or whomever he was, was standing by the fireplace and this Damonculous was standing in the entryway.”

“An attack on an Elder here in the manor?” Leo questioned. “That seems unlikely. There isn’t any reason for an Elder to come down here.”

“I can only tell you what I saw,” Phoebe said.

“Any idea when this attack is going to take place?” questioned Cole.

“No,” said Phoebe. “No clue about when only where.”

“There’s no Damonculous in the book,” Prue said coming down the stairs. “Nothing even close with a name like that.”

“Okay,” said Leo. “I’d better go check with the Elders. If one is in danger, they need to be made aware of it. And I also need to tell them not to come down here for any reason. If there’s no Elder in the manor this Damonculous can’t attack him here. Maybe that will prevent Phoebe’s premonition.”

“Do you really think an Elder could be in danger?” Timothy asked. “With their power they should be able to handle anything that’s thrown at them.”

“It’s best not to take any chances,” said Leo. “The strangeness of the premonition has me worried. I’ll let them know and get back as quickly as I can.”

“I’ll go, Leo,” Timothy said. “You need to stay here in case this Damonculous shows up here. I can deliver the message and get right back. Besides, I’m not doing anything until Steph is finished with her fund raiser.”

“Okay,” said Leo. “But don’t take too long. With an Elder in danger we can’t waste any time.”

“I’m all ready gone,” said Timothy, smiling.

He stood smiling at the group for a moment and then got a perplexed look on his face.

“Leo,” he said, a note of concern in his voice, “I can’t orb.”

“What do you mean you can’t orb?” Prue asked.

“I tried,” Timothy said. “Nothing happened. And I just realized something else. I can’t sense any of my charges.”

“Now that you mention it,” said Leo, “neither can I.” Leo closed his eyes and concentrated for a moment. “I can’t orb either. What’s going on here?”

“You think this has anything to do with this Damonculous?” Cole questioned.

“I don’t see how,” said Timothy. “He hasn’t attacked yet. All I know is my powers don’t seem to be working.”

“Neither are mine,” said Leo. “I can’t contact the Elders, either. It’s like being human again. None of my White Lighter powers are working.”

“Leo,” questioned Timothy, “what are we going to do? Without our White Lighter powers we’re as helpless as any mortal. And we can’t help our charges. Steph could be in danger if a demon attacks.”

“I don’t know,” said Leo. “And without contact with the Elders, we have no way of finding out who this Damonculous is. Or preventing an Elder from coming down here. Which means he could die. And there’s nothing we can do to stop it.”

[noazmale]

FOUR

“Timothy, calm down,” Leo said as Timothy nervously paced the floor.

“Calm down?” Timothy questioned. “Leo, none of our powers are working. How can you tell me to calm down? Has anything like this ever happened to you before?”

“No,” said Leo, “but getting emotional about it isn’t going to do any good. Piper’s checking the Book of Shadows now. Maybe there’s something in there that can help. You just need to stay calm and not go off half cocked.”

“Okay,” said Timothy, sitting on the sofa. “You’ve been doing this a lot longer than I have. It’s just so unnerving. In the last nine years I haven’t been without my powers. It’s just kind of weird not being able to do things I took for granted only yesterday.”

“Nine years?” questioned Phoebe. “I thought you said you had been a White Lighter for seven years?”

“No, I’ve been Steph’s White Lighter for seven years,” said Timothy. “White Lighters go through a lot of training before they get their first charge. You don’t instantly know everything when you become a White Lighter.”

“Oh,” said Phoebe, “I never knew that. I guess I just figured when you became a White Lighter you all ready knew what you needed to know.”

“Hardly,” said Leo. “There’s a lot of intensive training. The amount depends on whom the White Lighter is being assigned to. I received even more than Timothy did. I didn’t know at the time I was being groomed to be your White Lighter.”

“Not like a demon,” said Cole. “Most of them grow up learning as they grow, just like humans.”

“So I’ve heard,” said Timothy. “Maybe we could chat some time about that. I’d love to hear what it was like growing up as a demon among humans.”

“Maybe,” said Cole uncomfortably.

“Well,” said Piper, coming down the stairs, “I can’t find anything in the book about White Lighters’ loosing their powers.”

“Does that mean it’s never happened before?” Timothy questioned.

“No,” said Leo. “It simply means that no one in Melinda Warrens’ line has encountered it before. That doesn’t mean we’re out of options. There are other White Lighters in San Francisco. Some of them have been around a long time. We can call them and let them know what’s going on. They might be able to help.”

“Call them?” questioned Timothy. “How? Our telepathy isn’t working.”

“On the telephone,” said Prue. “You’ve been a White Lighter too long. Telepathy isn’t the only way to contact someone.”

“Oh, yeah, right,” said Timothy. “I’m sorry. This whole thing has me rattled.”

“Understandable,” said Phoebe. “Now, like Leo said, just relax and take it easy. I’m sure there’s a perfectly logical explanation for what’s going on. We just have to find out what it is.”

“I’ll make a few calls,” Leo said. “With a little luck I should be able to get hold of another White Lighter soon. Then maybe we can begin to get some answers.”

“You can use the phone in the kitchen, honey,” said Piper. “There’s a phonebook on the counter if you need to look any numbers up.”

“Great,” said Leo. “I shouldn’t be long.”

As Leo went into the kitchen the others sat around chatting. They were all worried about the turn of events. But they had weathered bad events before. They knew they would figure it out. It would just take some time. Right now their main concern was keeping Timothy calm.

“No luck,” Leo said, coming in from the kitchen. “None of the ones I called were home or they weren’t answering their phones. I know some others but I couldn’t find their names in the phonebook. They probably have unlisted numbers.”

“I could shimmer you to one of them,” Cole offered.

“Now there’s a great idea,” said Prue. “Shimmer into a witches house with a defenseless White Lighter. You know the witch will attack in self-defense, don’t you? And you have no way to prove that you aren’t there to kill her. Not to mention you can’t prove Leo’s a White Lighter without his powers.”

“Cole has an idea,” said Leo. “I know where some of the witches live. We could shimmer into the backyard or something and knock on the door. That should prevent any attacks and I can choose one whose White Lighter I know. He might even be there which would make things a whole lot simpler.”

“Is that a good idea?” Piper asked. “What if the witch recognizes Cole? She might not trust you.”

“You guys didn’t recognize me at first,” said Cole. “It’s unlikely that another witch would.”

“Besides,” said Leo, “Cole can wait outside. Once I’m inside he can shimmer back here. The White Lighter can orb me back after I’ve had a chance to talk with him.”

“Assuming he can orb,” said Prue. “What if this isn’t restricted to the two of you? What if other White Lighters have been affected?”

“That’s unlikely,” said Leo. “Even if other White Lighters have been affected it’s possible the one we go see won’t be. If he is Cole can shimmer me to another one until we find one who hasn’t been affected. It might take some time but it should work. And the more we find out about what’s going on the more likely we are to discover why it’s happening.”

“Maybe someone put a spell on the manor,” offered Cole. “Something to prevent your White Lighter powers from working.”

“That’s an idea,” said Prue. “It could be a prelude to a demon attack. Make the White Lighters powerless so they can’t heal or go for help. Which means we need to be on our guard.”

“It also means that once I shimmer Leo outside,” said Cole, “he might be able to orb. Or use his other White Lighter powers. It’s worth a shot. If it doesn’t work I can shimmer him to another White Lighter who might be able to help.”

“Sounds like a plan to me,” said Piper. “Only be careful. This might be a trap to lure you out of the manor. Somebody may be after you and not us.”

“She’s right,” said Timothy. “A demon that takes out the Charmed Ones White Lighter would gain a lot of prestige in the underworld. Almost as much as taking out the Charmed Ones themselves.”

Just then there was a knock at the front door. Phoebe jumped up and said she’d get it.

“Be careful,” Prue said. “If this a prelude to an attack that could be the demon now.”

“Knocking on the door?” questioned Phoebe.

“You never know,” said Prue. “In the mean time, Cole and Leo can go see if they can find another White Lighter who might know what’s going on. You guys be careful, like I said. Until we know what’s going on any or all of us could be in danger.”

“We’ll be careful,” said Cole. “Leo may not have his powers but I still have mine.”

“See that you do,” said Piper. “I don’t want to become a widow while I’m still on my honeymoon.”

“I’ll guard him with my life,” said Cole, smiling.

“Uh, Leo,” said Phoebe from the front door. “Before you leave I think you’d better come here.”

Curious, they all got up and walked into the entryway. Standing on the front porch was a man in his late fifties. He had white hair and had his hands folded in front of him. Folded inside the sleeves of a white robe he was wearing.

“An Elder,” gasped Timothy as they all stood looking at the man.

[noazmale]

FIVE

“It’s nice to meet you all again,” said the Elder with an English accent after everyone had gathered in the living room.

“Which one are you again?” Phoebe questioned.

“His name is Paracellious,” said Leo.

“Para- what?” questioned Prue.

“Just call me Percy,” the Elder said, smiling at them. “It’s much easier.”

“Percy,” said Leo, “what are you doing here? And why did you use the front door? Why didn’t you just orb in?”

“I was down here visiting another White Lighter,” said Percy. “He and I are very close and I occasionally visit him. Anyway, I had just left his place and was communing with the other Elders when suddenly it just stopped. I couldn’t commune with them any longer. And not only that. None of my other powers are working, either.”

“You, too?” questioned Timothy, fear beginning to rise in his voice. “Then we’re all defenseless. This must be a prelude to a demon attack. We’re all in terrible danger.”

“Timothy, calm down,” said Percy. “Getting emotional is not going to solve anything.”

“That’s what I told him,” said Leo.

“So, it’s as I expected,” said Percy. “It isn’t just me. This is quite serious. Quite serious indeed.”

“How serious?” Leo asked.

“If I’m right,” said Percy, “it isn’t just us that’s been affected. It’s all White Lighters and Elders. It’s the only explanation for why I can’t contact the others. And why they haven’t come to find out why.”

“All of them?” questioned Prue. “Has anything like this ever happened before?”

“Quite frankly, no,” said Percy. “And I am at a loss to explain it.”

“Can I get you anything?” Piper asked. “A cup of coffee or something?”

“A spot of tea would be quite lovely, thank you,” said Percy. “I rarely am able to indulge up there. The other Elders frown on it.”

“Tea coming right up,” said Piper heading for the kitchen.

“Percy, do you have any idea what might cause this?” Leo asked.

“Honestly, no,” said Percy. “The level of magic capable of doing this is enormous. It would take all the combined powers of every Elder to duplicate such a feat. And I know of no beings capable of exercising such powerful magic.”

“Could it be a spell?” Phoebe asked.

“Not of this magnitude,” said Percy. “Besides, a spell might affect the White Lighters, but certainly not an Elders. Perhaps one or possibly two Elders but not all of them. And as I said, none has come to investigate why we suddenly lost contact. If even one were unaffected he or she would have come immediately to find out what was going on. Since none have arrived, I can only assume they are all in the same boat, as you humans say, as we are.”

“So shimmering to another White Lighter won’t do any good,” said Cole.

“Ah, yes, Belthazor,” said Percy. “I was aware you were here.”

“I prefer the name Cole Turner,” said Cole.

“Of course,” said Percy.

“Here’s your tea,” said Piper, setting a tray with a pot and several cups on it. “I didn’t know how you liked it so I brought some lemon, sugar, and milk for you.”

“Just a touch of milk, thank you,” said Percy. “I never cared for lemon in my tea.”

“Okay, no lemon,” said Piper pouring the tea for him.

“Well,” said Percy, sipping his tea, “this is certainly a conundrum. And you say you can find nothing about an occurrence like this in your Book of Shadows?”

“Nothing even close,” said Piper. “There are spells and potions for stripping someone’s power but nothing that might cause such a widespread affect. And nothing that pertains to White Lighters and Elders alone.”

“I suppose it could be prelude to a demonic attack,” Percy speculated. “The incident recently where you stopped the warlock from decimating the White Lighters shows that we are far from untouchable. I suppose it could be something along those lines.”

“Trust me,” said Cole, “that’s hardly an option. The power it would take to cause this does exist in the underworld. But getting those demons to work together is another matter. Some of them hate each other and would never work with the others. Not even if it meant getting rid of the Elders.”

“Yes, I’m sure you’re right,” said Percy.

“You seem awfully sedate for someone who’s just lost his powers,” Prue said.

“As I told Timothy,” said Percy, “getting emotional isn’t going to solve anything. Oh, I’m concerned, to be sure. But we must remain logical and clear headed if we are to solve this little enigma.”

“Leo,” said Phoebe, “I think we should get Percy to somewhere else. As long as he’s here my premonition could come true.”

“What premonition?” Percy asked.

“I had a premonition just before Leo and Timothy lost their powers,” said Phoebe. “A demon was attacking an Elder here in the manor. I’m not sure if the Elder was you because I couldn’t see him clearly, but as long as you’re here you’re at risk.”

“You may be right,” said Leo. “Maybe Cole should shimmer Percy somewhere else.”

“That would solve nothing,” said Percy. “If a demon is after me they would simply follow me. And I can think of no place safer at the moment than the home of the Charmed Ones. Another witch may not fare so well if a demon should attack me.”

“He has a point,” said Prue. “But staying here is a risk. If this Damonculous should attack while Percy is here at least we’re here to protect him.”

Everyone was startled as Percy suddenly dropped his cup. It clattered to the coffee table shattering on impact. All of the blood had drained from his face and a look of what appeared to be fear was evident.

“Oh, that was one of my best cups, too,” said Piper, beginning to clean up the mess.

“Where did you hear that name?” Percy demanded very somberly.

“What, Damonculous?” Prue questioned. “It was the demon in Phoebe’s premonition.”

“That’s impossible,” said Percy.

“Hey, all I can tell you is what I saw,” said Phoebe.

“Percy, what is it?” Leo asked. “You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

“This is not possible,” Percy muttered to himself, standing up and walking absentmindedly to the fireplace. “They were destroyed millennia ago. None remain. They were all accounted for.”

“What are you muttering about?” Prue asked. “Who is this Damonculous? You act like you’re afraid of him.”

“My apologies,” said Percy. “Phoebe, are you sure it was a premonition and not a vision of the past?”

“He was attacking here in the manor,” said Phoebe. “I doubt that would be a vision of the past.”

“This isn’t possible,” Percy said. “Damonculous was vanquished a very long time ago. You must have misinterpreted your premonition.”

“No, it was quite clear,” said Phoebe.

“Who are what is this Damonculous?” Piper asked.

“Something far above you, witch,” said a voice from the entryway. “I am Damonculous. And I’ve come for you, Elder.”

Everyone turned to see the demon from Phoebe’s premonition standing in the entryway. They all immediately jumped to their feet taking up defensive postures against the demon. As they did, the demon raised its hand and a beam of blue energy shot out directly at Percy.

[vanillabliss]

*claps* nice!

[noazmale]

SIX

As soon as the demon raised its hand Timothy reacted. He moved over and grabbed Percy intent on getting him out of harms way. Instead the blue beam caught him directly in the back. He took the full force of the attack. He stood rigid for several moments, and then collapsed on the floor, his eyes clouded over. Leo moved to check him.

“He’s dead,” Leo announced with astonishment.

The girls reacted instantly. Piper raised her hands and tapped into her freezing power. Only Damonculous didn’t freeze. Piper appeared to be as powerless as Leo and Timothy.

Prue tapped into her telekinetic power intent on throwing the demon back. But just as with Piper, her power never manifested itself. Apparently what had affected the White Lighters and the Elders had also affected the girls. They were all as powerless as normal humans.

“White Lighter,” Damonculous spat out angrily. “I don’t need the power of a White Lighter. It will do me no good. I need the power of the Elder. Your powers are useless to you witch. Stay out of this and you will be spared.”

Damonculous raised both hands. This time he was intent on draining the power of the Elder despite any interference from the others. But before he could bring his power to bear an energy ball struck him in the chest sending him hurtling back against the back wall of the entryway. He immediately regained his feet and turned to face his attacker.

“Maybe their powers don’t work,” said Cole standing at the forefront of the group, “but I seem to be unhindered. Now, care to take on someone besides people who can’t protect themselves against you?”

“Who are you?” demanded Damonculous.

“Who me?” questioned Cole. “Nobody. But if you want the Elder, you have to go through me.”

“So be it,” said Damonculous, casting an electrical attack at Cole.

The attack looked like lightning. It came from Damonculous’ fingertips and struck Cole full in the chest sending him crashing against the fireplace. Damonculous, apparently satisfied Cole was out of the way, turned on the Elder once more.

“Now,” he said, “to finish what I started.”

Before he could attack again, Cole cast another energy ball at him sending him once again careening against the back wall of the entryway.

“Not bad,” said Cole, his chest still smoking from the attack. “But if that’s all you have then you’d better rethink what you’re doing.”

“Impossible,” said Damonculous. “You cast energy balls. What kind of witch are you to cast energy balls and be unaffected by my power that has blocked all good magic?”

“I’m not exactly a witch,” said Cole. He suddenly changed form. Belthazor stood where Cole had stood only a moment ago. “And as I said, if you want the Elder, you have to go through me, first.”

“Demon?” Damonculous questioned. “Protecting an Elder? How can this be?”

“You want to talk or fight?” said Belthazor. “Frankly, you’re beginning to bore me to death.”

“This is not finished,” said Damonculous. “I will be back. And when I do, I’ll take the Elder, demon or no.”

Suddenly Damonculous vanished from the entryway. He didn’t shimmer as most demons did. Nor did he orb as the White Lighters and Elders. Instead it appeared to be a combination of the two. A shimmering orb that was gray in color instead of the normal blue. Everyone turned to attend to Timothy. Belthazor changed back into Cole.

“He’s dead,” Leo repeated. “That’s impossible. White Lighters can only be killed by a Dark Lighters’ arrow.”

“He was a good White Lighter,” said Percy. “I shall miss him.”

“Thanks, Cole,” Prue said. “For a minute, I wasn’t sure what we were going to do.”

“Well, I couldn’t very well just stand there and let him kill an Elder, now could I?” asked Cole.

“But what do we do when he returns?” Piper asked. “Apparently we don’t have our powers either. And he said something about blocking the power of everyone who uses good magic. Is that even possible?”

Everyone turned to Percy. Clearly he knew more than he was telling. And he seemed to know who this Damonculous was. He just looked at them offering no explanation.

“Percy,” said Leo, “you know who that was, don’t you?”

“Leo,” said Percy very deliberately, fear evident in his voice, “never ask me that question again. You are forbidden from leaning the answer.”

Percy turned and walked over to the fireplace to compose himself. Everyone just stared at him in shock. He obviously knew something. And even though it could quite possibly cost him his life, he refused to say anything.

[noazmale]

SEVEN

“Timothy’s body will be safe in the arboretum until we can figure out what to do with it,” Leo said as he and Cole came back into the living room. “The question is, what are we going to do about it?”

“That’s up to Percy,” said Prue.

“I can’t help you,” said Percy.

“You damn well better help us,” Prue said, her temper flaring. “It isn’t just your life at stake here. It’s ours. You obviously know something and I mean to know what it is. Damn your rules.”

“I can tell you nothing,” said Percy. “The knowledge is forbidden.”

“Okay,” said Prue, suddenly becoming very calm, “if you can’t help us then we can’t help you.”

“Prue, you can’t mean that,” said Leo.

“I sure as hell mean it,” said Prue. “Cole, when this Damonculous comes back, don’t interfere. If he wants an Elder, let him have him.”

“You can’t,” said Percy suddenly very afraid. “You’re a Charmed One. Your job is to protect the innocent. Right now, I’m an innocent.”

“What are you going to do?” Prue asked. “Strip me of my powers? It seems that’s all ready happened. And without my powers I’m not a Charmed One any longer. I’m just a regular mortal like anyone else. And I’m sure as hell not going to risk my neck for someone who won’t even help himself.”

“Prue,” Leo began.

“No, Leo, she’s right,” said Piper. “Ever since we got our powers we’ve done nothing but do as they say. And half the time they don’t even tell us what’s going on.”

“I agree with them,” said Phoebe. “Hell, just a few weeks ago we kept a warlock from killing all the White Lighters. And this is how you are repay us? By telling us the knowledge is forbidden? Going up against demons is bad enough. But going up against a demon we know nothing about and without any powers is just plain suicide. Sorry, but that’s not on my top ten list of things to do right now.”

“Cole,” said Percy, turning to Cole for assistance.

“Don’t look at me,” said Cole. “I’m a demon, remember? Not exactly any love lost between demons and Elders. I was protecting the girls when I stood up to this Damonculous. I’d do it again. For them.”

“You must understand,” began Percy.

“All I understand,” said Prue, “is that you know something you won’t tell us. We could die fighting this demon. I, for one, won’t risk getting killed when there’s someone who can give us information we need.”

“Prue’s right,” said Piper. “Damonculous as much as said he wasn’t interested in us. Just in an Elder. If you expect any help from us you have to give us something to work with.”

“Percy,” said Prue, “you said that all the other Elders were in the same boat we are. That none of their powers are working. With Cole here he might not risk another confrontation. He might decide to go after another Elder who is completely unprotected. You want to be the one responsible for getting another Elder killed? Or more. He might not stop with just one. He might kill them all. So whatever it is you aren’t telling us, it’s not just your life or ours you’re risking. You’re risking the lives of all the Elders. Do you want to be remembered as the Elder that got everyone else killed?”

“Leo, do something,” said Percy. “You of all people should understand that there are some things that I’m just not at liberty to discuss. This is one of those times. They have no idea what they’re asking.”

“I’m sorry, Percy,” said Leo. “These three are the most stubborn people I’ve ever met, when they want to be. And when all three have their minds set on something, I’ve learned that there’s nothing that will change them. They won’t even listen to me. There’s nothing I can do. I’m sorry.”

Percy looked at them. He was obviously torn about what to do. Even Leo was perplexed at his behavior. Elders had powers beyond those of a normal White Lighter. Powers that would rival even the highest level demons. There wasn’t much that frightened an Elder. But right now Percy was terrified. And Leo was very uneasy about why Percy refused to talk. Whatever it was must be extremely serious.

“Well?” questioned Prue. “You want our help or not?”

“You’re a very strong willed woman,” Percy said finally, a note of resignation in his voice. “Piper, could I bother you for some more tea? It’s very good and what I have to say may take some time.”

“Sure,” said Piper, heading for the kitchen. “Just don’t start without me. I want to hear everything.”

“Not to worry,” said Percy. “Actually, I have to decide where to begin anyway.”

As Piper prepared the tea, Phoebe got a first aid kit and tended to Cole’s wound. It didn’t seem serious. Mostly a burn mark on his chest where the lightning had struck him. He said it wasn’t very painful but Phoebe could tell he was being less than honest. Still, she was very proud of what he had done.

“Okay, you have your tea,” said Prue. “Now, want to fill us in on what you know?”

“First,” said Percy, “what I’m about to tell you must never be repeated to anyone. It is perhaps the most closely guarded secret the Elders have. Something known only to the Elders.”

“Okay,” said Piper. “We promise. We just need the information to prepare for when this Damonculous returns.”

“It may not do any good,” said Percy. “Damonculous is more powerful than you could possibly imagine. Even if you had your powers, I’m not sure they would do you any good.”

“I seemed to have fared okay,” said Cole. “I imagine with the Power of Three they’d do even better.”

“You are only alive because Damonculous was not using his full power on you,” said Percy. “If he had, you would not have survived.”

“Just who is this Damonculous?” Phoebe asked.

“A power older than anything known to man,” said Percy. “A power so great, that even the Elders would be hard pressed to deal with him.”

“What kind of demon is it?” Prue asked. “He’s not in the Book of Shadows and not even Cole has heard of him.”

“He’s not a demon,” said Percy. “Not in the strictest sense of the word, anyway.”

“Then what is he?” asked Piper.

“For all intents and purposes,” said Percy deliberately, “Damonculous is as close to being a god as any creature can be.”

[vanillabliss]

wow, I'm liking the character of Percy, your a really good writer.

[piperminime]

Awesome. I'm loving it!

[noazmale]

EIGHT

“What do you mean he’s a god?” Prue asked.

“Damonculous is older than even the most ancient demon,” said Percy. “He walked the Earth before most civilizations had even produced a written language. He’s what you might call one of the first Elders, although that term is not exactly accurate.”

“You mean he’s a Founder?” Leo questioned.

“Founder?” asked Phoebe. “Leo, you mentioned them once before. When I first discovered you were a White Lighter. You said the Founders formed the Elder Council.”

“That’s right,” said Leo.

“No, Leo, he’s not a founder,” said Percy. “Why don’t you fill them in on our history? From the beginning.”

“Well,” said Leo, looking at the girls and Cole, “several thousand years ago White Lighters helped and served mankind much as they do today. A group of senior White Lighters got together and formed the Elders. The Elders were tasked with helping to protect mankind and assigning White Lighters to specific humans to guide and assist them.”

“You mean to witches,” Piper said.

“Mostly, yes,” said Percy. “There are exceptions. But for the most part, White Lighters help witches.”

“That much we know,” said Prue. “Are you saying this Damonculous is one of the original White Lighters that formed the Elders?”

“No,” said Percy. “He is older even than that. He’s one of the original members of the Gray Council.”

“The Gray Council?” Leo asked, shock in his voice. “I thought that was just a myth?”

“More like a legend,” said Percy.

“So what’s the difference?” Phoebe asked.

“A myth,” said Percy, “has no foundation in truth. Something like Robin Hood. A man that stole from the rich and gave what he stole to the poor. There actually was no such person. His reputation grew out of the feats of a number of individuals that over the years combined into the single figure you know today.

“A legend is something quite different. While much of what is believed about a legend is false, the basic premise behind it is true. Such as King Arthur. There actually was such a man. The son of a man named Uther who did rule England. Now, much of what you know about King Arthur never actually happened. But he did exist.”

“So the Gray Council actually existed?” Leo asked.

“Yes,” said Percy.

“What is this Gray Council?” Cole asked.

“According to legend,” said Leo, “they were a group of White Lighters that existed before the Elders. It’s always been believed that they were actually an allegory for White Lighters.”

“To the general White Lighter populous, yes,” said Percy. “But all Elders know the truth about the Council. Something we have all agreed must never become known.”

“Well, that’s changed,” said Prue. “So just what was this Gray Council?”

“Several thousand years before the Founders formed the Elder Council,” said Percy, “White Lighters did serve mankind as Leo said. But there was no single ruling body. They weren’t White Lighters, of course. Just supernatural beings that had taken an interest in humanity. They used their considerable power to help guide mankind.

“There were about two hundred of them in all. No one was considered higher or more important than any of the others. They named themselves the Gray Council so they could interact more efficiently with mankind. Humans seem to have an instinctual need to label things and people.

“Everything was fine for many millennia. The Gray Council used their power and knowledge to assist mankind. Allowing it to grow and mature into a healthy, thriving race. They did this by using their power to influence people and events to take a particular direction.”

“They interfered with free will?” asked Leo in shock. “Percy, that’s the greatest rule of White Lighters. We cannot interfere with a human’s free will no matter what happens.”

“It was not always so,” said Percy. “In those times the Gray Council freely altered destinies to chart the course of human history.”

“So what happened to this Gray Council?” Phoebe asked.

“To better facilitate their ends,” continued Percy, “certain humans deemed worthy were selected and imbued with power. Power to help affect human history. Many of these humans were female. The power they received was passed on from mother to daughter.”

“You’re talking about witches,” said Piper. “This Gray Council created the first witches?”

“Yes,” said Percy. “They weren’t called witches back then. They were called Gray Lighters. Because they had the favor of the Gray Council and led the human race in the direction the Council desired it to go.”

“So what changed?” Cole asked.

“Even back then,” said Percy, “humans could be very determined. And more than a bit arrogant. Many of the Gray Lighters began to think of themselves as equal to the Gray Council. Instead of simply taking orders from the Gray Council they felt they should have a say in the decisions the Gray Council made. They were human, the Gray Council wasn’t. They felt they better understood humans than the Gray Council and could better formulate in which direction humanity should go.”

“Boy, I’ll bet that went over like a lead balloon,” said Phoebe.

“Aptly put,” said Percy. “It caused quite a stir among the Gray Council. Many of the Council expressed a belief that the evil humans were beginning to exhibit was detrimental to the Council’s plan. Damonculous was the most outspoken in this regard. He proposed a plan to rid humanity of this evil. A plan that was also endorsed by a large portion of the Council.”

“A plan to rid humanity of evil?” Prue questioned. “Is that even possible?”

“Frankly, no,” said Percy. “Most human possess the ability for good and evil. Many factors are involved that determine which they will choose.”

“So,” said Cole, “what was this great plan that Damonculous and the others came up with that they thought would get rid of the evil in humans?”

“They proposed destroying humanity,” said Percy.

[noazmale]

NINE

“You can’t be serious,” said Piper.

“I’m quite serious,” said Percy. “Oh, not the entirety of humanity. Some select humans deemed good enough would be spared. The rest would be exterminated. Treated like the vermin many of the Gray Council thought them to be.”

“That’s crazy,” said Prue. “That wouldn’t solve anything. Any subsequent generations would have been the same.”

“That’s what those of the Gray Council opposed to the idea said,” said Percy. “Damonculous and his followers countered saying that each succeeding generation would be weeded out. Those deemed good enough would survive and the rest would be terminated. Eventually, they argued, evil would be excised from humanity.”

“I can’t believe this,” said Leo. “Weren’t they supposed to be helping mankind? How could any of them even consider such a course of action?”

“It is believed,” said Percy, “that many of the Gray Council had become corrupted by their near absolute control over humanity. Playing God, so to speak. And as you are acutely aware, corruption can soon turn to evil. We believe that over time many of the Gray Council became evil without realizing it.”

“Can someone be evil without knowing it?” Phoebe asked.

“Sure,” said Cole. “They think they’re doing the right thing even when everyone around them says differently. They delude themselves into thinking they’re doing the right thing when all the time their motivated by purely selfish ideas. Eventually it becomes second nature to them and before you know it they’re fully evil. I’ve seen it happen a hundred times.”

“I’m sure,” said Percy. “And as you can imagine, this caused quite a stir among the Gray Council. They were divided nearly in half. Damonculous and his followers vying to have the bulk of humanity wiped out while the rest argued just as passionately that was not the solution. Eventually, the inevitable happened. One of the Gray Council lost his temper and attacked an opposing member.”

“You mean they had a fight?” Cole asked.

“Worse,” said Percy. “It nearly immediately escalated into an all out war. The two sides faced off against each other with their considerable power.”

“Boy, that must have been quite a fight,” said Phoebe. “Imagine all that power being used at the same time.”

“You have no idea,” said Percy. “Compared to the power of the Gray Council your nuclear weapons are considered less than a match. The expenditure of so much power all at the same time very nearly did what Damonculous and the others wanted. It decimated the human race.”

“What finally ended it?” asked Piper.

“Damonculous and his followers were defeated,” said Percy. “Most on both sides were killed. But eventually Damonculous and his followers were drained of their power. Those that survived were banished to a realm where magic doesn’t exist. Without magic they have no chance of returning to the mortal plane.”

“What happened to the victors?” Leo asked.

“They became what we know as the Founders,” said Percy. “They spent a very long time trying to decide what they should do. They finally decided that a new order was needed. They selected the very best of the Gray Lighters that sided with them and formed the first Elder Council. It was felt that since Gray Lighters were human they would be more sympathetic to the plight of humanity.”

“But humans don’t become White Lighters or Elders until after they die,” said Leo.

“That’s correct,” said Percy. “The Founders decreed that as new Elders and White Lighters were needed, they would be only the very best humanity had to offer. In order to determine the best qualified, they had to die first. So that the totality of their lives could be judged. The Founders also decreed that the neither the Elders nor the White Lighters could ever again interfere in human history. Mankind was left to whatever the fates decreed. The rule of not interfering with free will was established.”

“What about the surviving Gray Lighters that sided with Damonculous?” Piper asked. “What did they do about them? Were they destroyed?”

“No,” said Percy. “Even though they were by now thoroughly evil, the Founders felt it was not totally of their doing. Had they never been granted the powers they had, they might have well remained good. So they were banished to a different realm from the defeated Gray Council members. A harsh, barren dimension of sorts that held no life of its own.”

“So they still exist?” questioned Cole.

“After a fashion,” said Percy. “Most of the original Gray Lighters have long since died or been killed. Some few remain but for the most part it is their descendents that now inhabit that realm. For many centuries they regarded Damonculous as a virtual god. Originally they called themselves Damonculites, after him. Over the years the name was gradually shortened and was somewhat perverted. Not by any design. It’s just the way things happen some times. They still exist but they are known by a different name now.”

“What name?” Cole asked, fearing he all ready knew the answer to that question.

“Demon,” said Percy. “The realm where they were banished originally had no name. The new inhabitants began calling it by what they felt was appropriate. They called it the underworld. You’re ancestors, Cole, were the descendents of the defeated Gray Lighters banished to the underworld. They are the very demons the Charmed Ones fight to protect humanity against.”

[piperminime]

Awesome. Keep the story coming!

[noazmale]

TEN

“That’s quite a story,” said Prue. “But I don’t understand why the knowledge is forbidden. A lot of cultures have similar type stories. Even the United States began because of something like that.”

“At first,” said Percy, “it was forbidden because of shame and regret. All everyone wanted to do was simply forget about what had happened. Much like the divisiveness that can occur within some families. The so-called ‘black sheep’ that no one ever talks about.

“But it soon became evident that the powers wielded by the Elders and the White Lighters was substantial. The Elders felt that if the White Lighters ever learned of their true history, a similar occurrence might happen. So it was decided that only the story of the Founders forming the Elder Council would be passed on to new generations of White Lighters. Call it selective honesty. What the White Lighters learn is essentially true. It’s just not the entire truth.”

“You said something about Damonculous being vanquished,” said Prue.

“Yes,” said Percy. “Damonculous was one of the most powerful of the Gray Council. It took the combined might of nearly a dozen other members to stop him. Their power virtually vaporized him. It was thought he had been vanquished. Apparently that supposition was wrong.”

“Why has he waited this long to reappear?” Leo asked. “If this happened all those thousand of years ago where has he been all this time?”

“I don’t know,” said Percy. “Maybe it’s taken him this long to reconstitute himself. Maybe he simply moved through time and this is where he appeared. Maybe it is only now that he has been able to access his magic again. I don’t know why he has waited for so long. I only know that he is very dangerous.”

“So what does he want?” Piper asked. “Has he come back for revenge?”

“I doubt it,” said Percy. “He mentioned something about needing the power of an Elder. In truth, he probably needs the power of several Elders. I can guess what his plans are. If he can get enough power, he can open a portal to the realm where the remaining Gray Council is imprisoned. If that happens, he will be able to return them to the mortal plane where their power will be restored to them. And I have no doubt they will finish what they started all those millennia ago. They’ll wipe out the human race.”

[noazmale]

ELEVEN

Damonculous appeared in what appeared to be a modest house. He winced slightly from the pain Cole’s fireballs had made. His power was very low. It would take time to replenish his power so that he could face an opponent as obviously powerful as this demon.

It had taken nearly all of his power to block all good magic. In the old days he would have been able to block all magic if he had chosen to. No one in this time would be powerful enough to be exempt from that blocking. But the powers this demon possessed weren’t good magic. And clearly the memories he had taken from the demon when he first arrived in that alley were incomplete.

Damonculous looked around him. A body lay on the floor. The body of a woman. She had an athame sticking out of her back and was obviously quite dead. Across the room, sitting at a desk going through some papers was a man. He was human but Damonculous could also sense that he was thoroughly evil.

“You must be a warlock,” Damonculous announced.

The man at the desk jumped to his feet instantly. He pulled out another athame and brandished it threateningly at Damonculous.

“Who are you?” demanded the man.

“My name is Damonculous,” said Damonculous. “And I have need of you.”

“What are you?” the man asked. “A demon? If so you can just get out of here. The witch was my prey. I’m not sharing the spoils with anyone.”

“You may keep your spoils,” said Damonculous. “To be honest, they would probably do me little good anyway. But as I said, I have need of you. I need certain information. Information I’m sure you can provide for me.”

“What kind of information?” the man demanded.

“First,” said Damonculous, “what are you called?”

“Persius,” said the man. “Persius Winthorp.”

“So, Persius Winthorp,” said Damonculous, “am I correct in assuming you are a warlock?”

“Yeah,” said Persius. “And a damn good one too. Demon or not you won’t find me an easy target.”

“I am no demon,” said Damonculous. “And as I said, I need only some information. In return I am prepared to repay you handsomely with more power than you could possibly imagine.”

“What kind of information?” Persius asked.

“About witches,” said Damonculous. “Specifically, three witches. All sisters.”

“The Charmed Ones?” questioned Persius. “You want the Charmed Ones?”

“That depends,” Damonculous said. “Who are these so-called Charmed Ones?”

“They’re the most powerful witches in history,” said Persius. “They appeared about three years ago. And they’ve vanquished every demon and warlock they’ve come up against.”

“Really?” Damonculous questioned. “They must be quite powerful.”

“They are,” said Persius. “They have the Power of Three. Nothing can stand against that. I’ve had friends who learned that the hard way.”

“The Power of Three,” said Damonculous. “Interesting. And you say it is unstoppable?”

“So far,” said the warlock. “No one has been able to find a way around it. Why are you so interested in them? If you’re not a demon what could you want with them?”

“They have an Elder,” said Damonculous. “He is the one I’m after. But these Charmed Ones also have a protector. A demon of black and red. A very powerful demon. If I am to defeat them, I must know about them.”

“Belthazor?” Persius questioned. “Yeah, he’s with them. I heard he fell in love with one of the witches. He betrayed the Source and killed the Triad. Now the Source wants him dead. But they protect him so no demon can collect on the bounty the Source has offered for his destruction.”

“The Source?” questioned Damonculous.

“The Source of All Evil,” said Persius. “Who are you, anyway? You don’t know about the Charmed Ones. You don’t know about the Source. And you say you’re after an Elder. You must be extremely powerful or extremely stupid. No one goes after an Elder. That’s as suicidal as going after the Charmed Ones.”

“It is not an Elder I’m after,” said Damonculous. “I want them all. I need their power. But as yet I’m too weak to challenge this Belthazor, as you call him. Now I understand why a demon would be protecting witches. Love is a very powerful and motivating force.”

“You want all the Elders?” questioned Persius. “What, you got a death wish? With their power the Elders are all but untouchable.”

“That is of no consequence at the moment,” said Damonculous. “Good magic can not operate for the moment. If not for this Belthazor I would have had my first victim. And the others would have soon fallen.”

“No good magic?” questioned Persius. “That’s why it was so easy to kill the witch. I wondered why she didn’t use her powers against me. You say you did that? Stopped all the good magic?”

“Yes,” said Damonculous. “And it is only a start. Once I have the Elder, my power will begin to increase. Then I can find the other Elders. Without their powers they will be as little consequence to me as this witch was to you. And when I’m finished they will no longer be a concern for anyone.”

“You don’t say?” asked Persius. “You mentioned something about a trade. My knowledge for power. What did you have in mind?”

“It’s very simple,” said Damonculous. “My knowledge of this time is incomplete. I could simply drain what I need from you but the would not guarantee that I will learn what I need to know. I offer you a deal. You provide me with whatever knowledge you have, and swear loyalty to only me, and when I have accomplished my mission I will give you more power than you could garner from a hundred witches.”

“How do I know you can make good on your deal?” asked Persius.

Damonculous stretched out his hand and flames erupted around Persius. The warlock screamed in agony as his flesh was apparently consumed by the flames. Just as suddenly the flames vanished and Persius stood at the desk unharmed.

“That is but a small taste of my power,” said Damonculous. “Imagine what power I will have when I am fully restored. You will share in that power. And you will command those others who serve me.”

“Keep talking,” said Persius, sticking the athame in his belt and sitting back down at the desk. “You got my attention.”

Damonculous just smiled. Humans had changed very little in the thousands of years since he and his brothers and sisters of the Gray Council had ruled the Earth. Most would sell their soul for the merest pittance of power.

[Esmeralda]

noazmale said:

THREE

“Thank you for coming to the aid of my daughter,” said Martha’s father. “I appreciate what you did for her.”

Reverend Chrichton had invited Cole into his home after Officer Harper had given them a ride to Martha’s home. Being half demon, Cole was a bit uncomfortable being in the home of a minister. But he decided it was best if he didn’t make them any more suspicious than necessary.

Jerry, did you accidentally stick a chapter from a different story in the middle of this one? First Phoebe hits the floor screaming after coming back from Paris with Cole, and then Cole is out in some town where some officer has given him a ride to the reverend's house!! I'm enjoying Origins, but this one intrigues me, too! So when you're done with Origins, I hope you post this one!!

Now back to read the rest of Origins...

[Esmeralda]

That's all I can say now that I've read the whole thing, Jerry! That and I absolutely totally LOVE the story of Damonoculous and the original Grey Council and the original Grey Lighters! What an absolutely fascinating story!

I even think you may have told us what truly happened in Season 6. The Titans obviously weren't Titans but members of the Grey Council and after killing all of our original Elders, they brought the rest of the Grey Council back to take their place and take their form!! No WONDER the Elders have been more demonic than the demons! And do-do bird Chris, who prevented Leo from warning the original Elders, is the reason! Since his daddy ignored him (poor baby!) he came back and made sure his father wouldn't be around. Because had he not been there, the Elders would not have been killed and WYATT would've been the only evil person running the world, not the Grey Council!! Thanks, Chris!

Absolutely fantastic story-telling, Jerry! Please update soon!

[noazmale]

esmeralda said:

noazmale said:

Jerry, did you accidentally stick a chapter from a different story in the middle of this one? First Phoebe hits the floor screaming after coming back from Paris with Cole, and then Cole is out in some town where some officer has given him a ride to the reverend's house!! I'm enjoying Origins, but this one intrigues me, too! So when you're done with Origins, I hope you post this one!!

Now back to read the rest of Origins...

Oops. Actually I did post the wrong chapter on this site. I went ahead and deleted that post. No sense confusing everyone else with my little mistake. As for posting that one next I'll see what I can do. Thanks for catching it. I appreciate it.