Balance Of Power

[noazmale]

TWENTY-ONE

“Leo, I just don’t think this is a good time right now,” protested Piper as she and Leo walked down the street. “Paige still doesn’t have her powers back yet. If we go away for a few days, that will leave her and Phoebe defenseless.”

“Two days,” said Leo, “two days, not a few days. And it’s not like we’re going across the country or anything. We’ll be within calling range and I can orb us back if there’s any trouble.

“Piper, we haven’t really been alone since we got married. And with everything that’s happened lately, I think we need to get away. Just the two of us. Phoebe and Paige can look out for themselves. And I’m sure Michael will be glad to stand in for me while we’re gone. He said he’s going to be in town for another day or two. We might not get a chance like this again very soon.”

Piper was torn. She desperately wanted to get away with Leo if even for a day or two. But the Power of Three required that there actually be three of them. If a high level demon attacked while they were away, she wasn’t sure either of her sisters could handle it.

“Let’s compromise,” said Leo. “Instead of the entire weekend, how about one day? We can leave Friday afternoon, spend the night, and come back Saturday afternoon. And like I said, I’ll ask Michael to keep an eye on Paige and Phoebe while we’re gone.”

Piper looked at her husband. God knows she could use the rest. And one night shouldn’t be too risky. Especially if there was a warrior White Lighter watching over her sisters. She decided that compromise was acceptable. Before she could speak, a police car pulled up to the curb next to them. Two policemen got out and walked over to Leo and Piper.

“Leo Wyatt?” asked one of the policemen.

“Yes?” Leo questioned.

“We have a warrant for your arrest,” said the policeman, holding a piece of paper in his left hand and resting his right hand on his service revolver. “You’re under arrest on suspicion of murder. Come along quietly and don’t make a scene.”

“Murder?” asked Piper. “There’s got to be a mistake. Leo hasn’t murdered anyone.”

“Please, miss,” said the other officer, positioning himself between Leo and Piper, “don’t make us take you in for interfering. Mr. Wyatt is being taken to the thirty seventh precinct where he’ll be booked.”

The first officer placed Leos’ hands behind his back and cuffed him.

“Is that really necessary?” asked Piper.

“Just procedure, ma’am,” replied the second officer.

Once he was cuffed, the first officer placed Leo in the back seat of the police car. Piper still protested his innocence. Leo just looked at her. The second police officer turned to Piper.

“You’ll be contacted, witch,” he said. “Try anything funny, and we’ll kill the White Lighter right here.”

His eyes glowed red for a moment. That was when Piper realized these were no ordinary policemen. They were demons. There was nothing she could do. She was forbidden from using her powers in public. And she had no doubt the demons would make good on their threat. She stood by helplessly as the police car drove off with Leo in the back seat.

At precisely the same moment that the demon police were abducting Leo, Phoebe and Cole were in his motel room talking. The last three days had been quiet and Cole was anxious for Michael to leave so he could return to the manor. Suddenly, there was a knock at the door.

“Housekeeping,” announced a female voice from the outside.

Cole stood up and walked over to the door. He opened it and a woman dressed in a maids’ uniform stood outside smiling.

“I’m sorry,” said Cole, “could you come back a little later? I’m sort of in the middle of something right now.”

“Oh,” said the woman, “I’m not here to make up the room.”

Suddenly her eyes glowed and Cole knew she was a demon. At the same instant, three more demons shimmered in and took hold of Phoebe before either of the two could do anything. The demon maid pushed her way into the room.

“So, you’re one of the vaunted Charmed Ones,” she said. “Very pretty.” She turned to Cole. “The witch won’t be harmed, human. But tell her sister that she has two hours to be at this address.” She handed a piece of paper to Cole. “If she doesn’t arrive, her sister will be killed. Two hours, human. I suggest she not be late.”

With that, the four demons shimmered out, taking Phoebe with them. Cole cursed himself for not being able to help. Since they had vanquished Belthazor, he was as helpless as any human. He quickly gathered up his coat and hurried off to the manor.

[noazmale]

TWENTY-TWO

“Michael,” screamed Piper, storming into the manor, “Michael, I need to see you right now.”

Michael orbed in just as Paige was coming down the stairs.

“What’s wrong?” asked Paige.

“They took Leo,” said Piper. “Two demons dressed as policeman said he was wanted for murder. They handcuffed him and put him into a police car, then drove away. They said I would be contacted.”

“Why didn’t he orb away?” asked Michael.

“I don’t know,” said Piper. “Maybe it’s because we were in public or something.”

“Or maybe he couldn’t,” offered Paige.

“That’s possible,” said Michael. “They might have found a way to bind his powers so he couldn’t orb. Did they say anything else?”

“No, no,” said Piper, nearly in tears, “just that if I tried anything they’d kill him right there. They said I would be contacted.”

Just then the door to the manor opened and Cole came rushing in.

“Four demons took Phoebe,” he said. He handed the piece of paper to Piper. “They said you have to be at this address in,” he looked at his watch, “just over an hour. They said if you weren’t there, they’d kill her. There was nothing I could do. I could only stand there and let them take her.”

“Nothing you could do?” asked Michael suspiciously.

“No,” said Cole, “of course not. I’m no match for a demon, let alone four of them.”

“Uh huh,” said Michael.

Suddenly, a small green form shimmered into the living room. It stood only about four feet tall and had a tail nearly as long. It was a sickly shade of green and stood looking at the party, swaying on its’ legs.

“Demon,” said Piper, raising her hands.

“No,” said Michael, pulling Pipers’ hands down, “it’s a messenger demon. About all they’re good for is delivering messages. I’d say you’re being contacted as they said you would be.”

“Charmed One,” hissed the creature. “Master send me to tell you. Be at warehouse on north part of town. White Lighter no harmed. One hour you be at warehouse. You no come, White Lighter die. One hour.”

Without another word, the small demon shimmered out.

“An hour?” questioned Paige. “Didn’t they say you had to be where they’re holding Phoebe in an hour?”

“This is no coincidence,” said Michael. “This was a planned, coordinated attack. Where’s the address where they’re holding Phoebe.”

“It’s on the south part of town,” said Cole. “On the opposite side from the warehouse where Leo is.”

“Ingenious,” said Michael. “They kidnap your sister and husband, put them in different parts of town, and tell you if you don’t try to rescue both, they’ll be killed.”

“We don’t have time to analyze this,” said Piper. “We have to think of something. I can’t be in two places at once.”

“Which is what they’re counting on,” said Michael. “This is designed to divide us. They’re expecting you to go to one location and me to go to the other to free both of them. I would imagine they have enough help to handle either of us alone at both locations.”

“What do we do?” asked Paige.

“We don’t do anything,” said Michael. “You’re in no condition to go fighting demons. You’ll have to stay here. I suggest that Piper and I go after Phoebe. She’s the most important one.”

“Aren’t you forgetting about Leo?” asked Piper.

“Leo can take care of himself,” said Michael. “Besides, Phoebe is part of the Charmed Ones. They’re more important than any White Lighter. He’d be the first to tell you that. If she dies, your power is gone forever. We have to rescue her first.”

“What about me?” Cole asked.

“Yes, what about you?” asked Michael. “I find it odd that you would simply stand by while your fiancé is taken.”

“What could I do?” said Cole. “There were four demons. I’m no match for four demons. I’m not even a match for one demon.”

“That’s not true and we know it,” said Michael. “I’m not sure exactly what’s going on here. You seem genuinely concerned with the sisters. That’s very unusual behavior. Especially from you, Belthazor.”

Cole, Paige, and Piper just stared at Michael. He had only met Cole the one time. How could he have discovered who Cole was? They had never met in Cole’s’ human form.

“Don’t bother to deny it,” said Michael. “I know who you are. Right now, we have something more important to worry about than my personal vendetta. The Charmed Ones come first.”

“That’s what Prue used to say,” said Piper. “First we loose Prue. Then we nearly loose Paige. Now we have to choose between Phoebe and Leo. When is this going to end?”

“There is no choice,” said Michael. “Phoebe must be saved. I know it’s hard having to choose between your husband and your sister, but you have to put your personal feelings aside. We go get Phoebe, then we go for Leo.”

“We?” asked Piper. “You’re going with me?”

“Yes,” said Michael. “They’re expecting you to come alone and for me to go after Leo. Even with your powers, they’ll have enough demons to stop you. But if they aren’t expecting me, that gives us an edge.”

“And we just leave Leo to die?” asked Piper.

“That’s not going to happen,” said Michael. “I know who has Leo. It’s Malevant. If anyone is going to take Leo, it’s Malevant. He’s trying to draw me out into an ambush. Until he’s sure I’m going to fall for his little trap, he won’t hurt Leo. It’s me he’s after.”

“He’s right,” said Cole. “Malevant wants nothing more than to kill Michael. If this is to draw Michael into a trap, it has to be Malevant. He wouldn’t allow anyone else to do it.”

“Okay,” said Paige. “When are we going?”

“I told you,” said Michael, “We aren’t. You’re staying here. I suggest that Cole stay here with her to help protect her in case the demons attack while we’re gone. Piper, you and I are going after Phoebe. Once we’ve freed her, we’ll go get Leo.”

Piper didn’t like it. Of course, she wouldn’t have liked going after Leo and leaving Phoebe to fend for herself, either. But they couldn’t go after both of them at the same time. Michael was right. Emotions aside, the Charmed Ones were more important than a White Lighter, no matter who that White Lighter was. Reluctantly, she agreed with Michael.

“Okay,” said Michael. “I’ll wait here while you go to the place where they’re holding Phoebe. Once you get there, but before you go inside, you call for me. I’ll orb in and we’ll go from there.”

“Why not just go with her?” asked Paige.

“In case they’re watching her,” said Michael. “Once she arrives, they’ll assume she’s alone. I can orb in undetected.”

* * *

Piper pulled up in front of the address where Phoebe was being held. She looked at her watch. She had seven minutes left. She knew they were watching her. It didn’t take a witch to know that. In the doorway to the building, half obscured by the shadows, stood a demon.

“Michael,” she called out low.

Nothing happened. She looked around and saw no one on the street. The building appeared to be an abandoned apartment building that apparently had seen better days. Perplexed, she called for Michael again.

“I’m here,” said Michael from the back seat.

Piper looked in the back and saw him lying in the floor.

“Didn’t want to give anyone who might be watching any idea that I was here,” he said. “Now, you go inside and find Phoebe. I’ll orb in and we’ll get her out as quickly as we can.”

“Any ideas how we’ll do it?” asked Piper.

“Pretty simple, actually,” said Michael. “You find Phoebe, I’ll orb in grab you both, and orb back to the manor. We’ll be out of there before they know what’s happened.”

“Sounds simple,” said Piper. “Listen Michael, we need to have a talk about Cole before we get back to the manor. It’s not the way you think.”

“I think it is,” said Michael. “But we can discuss that later. We need to rescue Phoebe first. We can’t be distracted from that. Let’s rescue Phoebe then we can talk about Cole.”

“Okay,” said Piper.

She got out of the car and walked to the building. She glanced back at the car but didn’t see Michael anywhere. When she got to the doorway, the demon stepped aside.

“Welcome, Charmed One,” said the demon smiling. “Go to the third floor. You will find your sister beyond the third door on the left.”

Piper walked past the demon and headed for the stairs. She climbed the stairs to the third floor and looked down the hallway. Nothing moved in the hallway. The third door on the left was closed, as were the rest of the doors. She hesitated a moment wanting to give Michael time to get into the building.

She walked down the hallway and stopped at the third door on the left. If the demon at the door downstairs had been telling the truth, Phoebe waited for her in this room. She looked around not really knowing what she was expecting to see. Then, she opened the door and walked into the room.

Phoebe sat in the middle of the room, tied to a chair and gagged. As Piper walked into the room, Phoebe aggressively shook her head and tried to say something. Piper just ignored her and stopped inside the room looking at the three figures standing behind Phoebe.

To Phoebes’ left stood a purple demon with bright yellow markings. To his right, standing directly behind Phoebe holding a dagger, was a bright yellow demon with black markings. He, too, was smiling. The third demon stood to the left of the yellow demon. This demon was green with blue markings. All three demons were as tall as Belthazor.

“Welcome,” said the yellow demon holding the dagger. “My name is Beelzbor. We’ve anxiously waited meeting you in person. My brothers, LaTarrin and Talistar, wanted to be here to greet you with me.”

“I’m here, demon,” said Piper. “Now, let my sister go.”

“I’m afraid we can’t do that,” said Beelzbor. “You’ve been a thorn in our sides long enough. With this witch bound and gagged, and your other sister unable to access her powers, you are no match for us.”

“How do you know about Paige?” insisted Piper.

“We have our sources,” said Beelzbor. “Now, the contests between us are over. You and your sister will die. The White Lighter will also die. And when we are through here, we shall remove the last obstacle; the third sister.”

Piper raised her hands and cast her explosion power at Beelzbor, wondering where Michael was. But instead of exploding the demon, nothing happened. Piper tried again with the same results.

“Fool,” said LaTarrin. “Do you think we would have come here had we not been prepared? We have cast an enchantment on this room that prevents you from using your powers. It was costly, but effective. Now, you cannot even defend against us.”

Suddenly another demon shimmered in and stood to Pipers’ left. This demon was dark green - nearly black - with bright yellow markings. He smiled at Piper, holding a piece of paper in his hands.

“You would be Malevant,” said Piper.

“Yes,” said Malevant. “I see my brother has told you of me. Oh, you can forget his coming to your rescue. He won’t be joining us today. I’ve seen to that.”

[noazmale]

TWENTY-THREE

Pipers’ heart sank. Michael should have orbed in by now. Which meant that Malevant must be right. She wasn’t sure if Michael was dead or only being delayed. Malevants’ words didn’t hint at which. And with the enchantment on the room, her powers were useless. She and Phoebe were as good as dead.

“Release that one,” ordered Malevant, pointing at Phoebe.

“Are you mad?” asked Talistar. “We have them. All we need do now is kill them. The Power of Three will be broken forever.”

“I have a much better idea,” said Malevant, smiling and holding up the piece of paper. “A power-stripping spell. Written specifically for the Charmed Ones. Once they cast this spell, their powers will be gone forever. And you can do as you wish with them.”

“What about you?” Beelzbor asked. “What do you get out of it?”

“My brother, Michael,” said Malevant. “And a second White Lighter. Each of you gets to have one of the so-called Charmed Ones for your bidding, and I get those two. The Power of Three will be gone forever, and you will have something to amuse you with for as long as you like.”

Beelzbor smiled and looked at LaTarrin and Talistar. It was clear he approved of the plan. It would be a simple matter to simply kill the witches. But this way they could strip them of their powers and still have them around to punish them for all of their incessant interference.

“It is genius,” said Beelzbor. “I lay claim to the eldest. She will give me many hours of pleasure before she begs for me to end her suffering.”

“Release that one,” repeated Malevant. “They must both incant the spell to strip them of their powers. This will break the Power of Three and the third sister will be powerless to stop whomever comes for her.”

“I claim the youngest,” said LaTarrin. “She is a pretty thing. I shall enjoy having her often.”

Beelzbor reached down and cut Phoebes’ bonds. Phoebe stood up and ripped the gag from her mouth, then moved over to stand next to Piper.

“If you think we’re going to willingly strip ourselves of our powers,” said Phoebe, “you’re as crazy as I think you are.”

Malevant forced the spell into Pipers’ hand.

“You will incant the spell, witch,” said Malevant. “Or you will watch as I slowly torture your White Lighter and younger sister to death. It will be excruciating and take many weeks. On the other hand, incant the spell, and perhaps your suffering shall be short lived. It is your choice.”

Piper looked down and read the spell to herself. A perplexed look came across her face. She showed it to Phoebe who also got a perplexed look on her face.

“Now, witch,” said Beelzbor. “Incant the spell. No more delays. Incant it now or we shall join Malevant in torturing your White Lighter.”

“Okay,” said Piper. “You heard them, Pheebs. They want us to incant the spell.”

Piper held the paper up so they could both read, and they incanted the spell out loud.

“Demons’ power that binds the light, take this evil from our sight, let the darkness reign no more, and vanquish them forever more.”

Suddenly flames sprung up engulfing Beelzbor, LaTarrin, and Talistar. The demons howled in agony as the fire threatened to consume them. But these weren’t any ordinary demons. A simple vanquishing spell could not stop them. Within seconds they would break free of the spell and attack.

“Now,” said Malevant as he cast a fireball at Beelzbor.

The fireball struck the demon, forcing it back against the wall. Malevant didn’t relent, but continued to cast fireball after fireball at him. Within seconds, the demon exploded into a thousand shards that evaporated into nothingness.

As he was attacking Beelzbor, Piper raised her hands and tried to explode Talistar. To her surprise, the power worked and Talistar exploded as Beelzbor had. But his power was such that he immediately began to reconstitute himself. He was reforming as Piper again cast her explosive power, once more shattering the demon. It took only once more to exhaust all of the demons’ power and his life ended as Beelzbors’ had.

Phoebe rushed in and began to attack LaTarrin with her martial arts skill. She kicked the demon, forcing him back against the wall. Then she turned and reached for the dagger, which Beelzbor had held. She turned just as LaTarrin regained his footing and drove the dagger completely into his chest.

LaTarrin was casting a fireball and the attack from Phoebe caused the fireball to go wild. It flew across the room, narrowly missing Piper, but striking Malevant in the chest. Malevant slammed into the wall behind him. With pained effort, he raised his hand and cast a fireball of his own, engulfing LaTarrin. As he did, Piper turned on LaTarrin, using her explosive power once more. Between the dagger in his chest, the fireball from Malevant, and Pipers’ explosive power, LaTarrin was unable to call upon enough power to protect himself. He exploded and evaporated as his brothers had.

Phoebe rushed to Piper. They checked to make sure each was okay. Phoebe had some minor burns from the consuming flames, but they weren’t serious. Piper apparently had no injuries at all. They both turned to face Malevant who lay slumped on the floor.

“Call Leo,” he gasped, his breathing being labored.

“Why should I?” spat out Piper. “You kidnapped him. Threatened to kill him. For all I know, you’ve killed Michael, too. Besides, you have him bound somewhere where he can’t use his powers.”

“Please,” gasped Malevant, “your White Lighter has been freed. Call him to you.”

Piper thought for a moment. This demon had saved their lives. But Leos’ power wouldn’t heal a demon. She didn’t know what Malevant had in mind.

“Leo,” she called out to the air.

Almost immediately, Leo orbed in. He stood next to the two sisters and looked down at Malevant.

“What happened here?” he asked.

“No . . . time,” gasped Malevant. “You must heal me. There is little time. I’ll explain everything.”

“I can’t,” said Leo. “I’m forbidden from helping evil. Besides, my powers don’t work on demons.”

Suddenly Malevant changed form. Lying in his place, with a singed mark in his chest, was Michael. Michael looked up at the three and tried to speak.

“Michael?” questioned Leo.

Leo didn’t hesitate. He knelt next to Michael and placed his hands over the wound. A soft yellow glow covered Michaels’ body and within seconds, he was completely healed. Leo and Michael stood up.

“Whoa,” said Phoebe. “Did I just see what I think I saw?”

“Yes,” said Michael smiling. “It’s a secret I’ve kept for over a hundred years. Thank you, Leo. I nearly died. If not for you, I would have.”

“I’m confused,” said Piper. “If you appeared as Malevant, where’s the real Malevant?”

“That’s kind of a long story,” said Michael. “One I’ll gladly tell you once we’re back at the manor. We should orb back immediately and let Paige and Cole know you’re okay.”

“What about my car?” Piper asked.

“We’ll come back for it later,” said Leo. “Right now, I think Michael is right. We need to get back to the manor.”

Piper took Leos’ arm and Phoebe linked her arm in Michaels’. Together, the two White Lighters orbed out of the building and back to the Halliwell manor

[noazmale]

TWENTY-FOUR

Paige paced the living room. Piper and Michael had been gone for more than an hour. They should have been home by now. If they had been successful.

“Will you sit down?” asked Cole who was sitting on the sofa.

“How can you just sit there?” Paige shot back at him. “For all we know, Piper, Phoebe, and Leo are already dead. Michael could be, too. Which means those demons may be coming after us next.”

“And there’s nothing we can do about it,” said Cole. “If they’re coming, they’re coming. That’s the way it is.”

“Cole’s right, Paige,” said Coombs. “Sometimes all you can do is sit and wait. As a doctor, I can tell you that pacing is not going to help anyone, least of all you.”

Coombs had arrived only a short time ago. He had gotten the results back on some of Paige’s’ tests and wanted to inform her of the good news. When he had learned what was going on, he decided to stay around and see if his services might be needed.

Paige had been testy the entire time. Cole had tried to calm her, but was having no success. Without thinking, Paige had blurted out that, since Cole had once been a demon, patience was probably not one of his strong suits. After that, they had no choice but to explain to Coombs about Cole’s’ past. Coombs was still getting adjusted to the whole idea.

“What about Michael?” Paige asked. “If they are successful, he’ll be coming back to kill you. You’re just going to sit there and wait for him?”

“I’m tired of running and hiding,” said Cole. “Even if I run, he’ll follow me. I want to get this over with as soon as possible.”

“We’re the Charmed Ones,” said Paige, “the three of us. I should be there with them to help.”

“You wouldn’t be any more help than I would,” said Cole. “Without your powers, your just another human like I am.”

“I could still do something,” said Paige.

“You are,” said Coombs. “You’re staying out of danger. They don’t have to worry about you which gives them a better chance of succeeding.”

“You think they’ll succeed?” asked Paige.

“I don’t know,” said Cole worriedly. “It depends on what type and how many demons they’re facing.”

Paige continued to pace. She didn’t have anything else to do and was worried about her sisters, Leo, and Michael. She wouldn’t rest until they returned, safe and unharmed.

Suddenly, the four of them orbed into the house. Cole immediately went to Phoebe and hugged her close, asking if she was okay. Paige walked over to Piper, and the two sisters hugged. Then Paige hugged Leo and Michael.

“What happened?” asked Paige.

“We won,” said Piper, looking at Michael. “Of course, we had some help.”

“Help?” questioned Cole. “What kind of help?”

“Malevant showed up,” said Leo.

“I wouldn’t call that much help,” said Cole.

“Oh, you’d be surprised,” said Piper. “He provided us with a spell that weakened the demons enough for us to destroy them. And Malevant helped us destroy them.”

“Wait a minute,” said Paige. “One of the upper level demons helped you destroy the others?”

“That doesn’t make any sense to me,” said Coombs. “If what I’ve learned so far about demons is true, working together isn’t something they’re known for.”

“It’s not so unusual,” said Cole. “It’s the way most demons advance in the hierarchy. I just find it unusual that he would help you destroy them. Certainly he must have known you’d turn on him when the others were dead.”

“That’s not exactly what happened,” said Leo. “Michael, you said you were going to explain things. I think now would be a good time.”

“Explain things?” questioned Paige. “Explain what?”

“What’s been going on the past couple of weeks,” said Michael. “There’s something the others haven’t told you, Paige, Cole, Dr. Coombs. Malevant showed up and helped them. Except that I’m Malevant.”

Cole sat stunned at the news. He had even meant Malevant personally. But all demons knew of this high level demon. He was rumored to be one of the few successors to the Source.

“Let me explain,” said Michael. “Part of the known history about me is true. A demon did capture and rape my mother. And she did give birth to twins; my brother, Malevant, and me. Once we were born, the demon that was our father murdered our mother.

“Then he turned us over to a female warlock to be raised. He had great expectations about us becoming great evils to serve the Source. But it soon became evident that I would never be that great evil. I inherited too much of my mother. I couldn’t be converted to evil, even though I was being raised in an evil environment.”

“So what happened?” asked Leo. “We do know that the two of you ran away from the warlock when you were twelve.”

“In a manner of speaking,” said Michael. “When we were twelve, Malevant and I had an argument as many siblings do. I’m sure the three of you have had arguments.”

“We’ve had some doosies,” said Piper. “I think that all siblings argue.”

“Yes,” said Michael. “It’s normal. But Malevant and I had the powers we had inherited from our parents. He inherited demonic powers from our father and I inherited White Lighter powers from our mother. We both also inherited some limited powers from both.

“Anyway, we argued often. Malevant had no humanity in him. He hated everything that was related to humanity. I, on the other hand, always argued for the good in humans. On this day our argument got out of hand. The female warlock who was raising us wasn’t at home at the time. Malevant and I fought that day.

“I won. Malevant lost and was dead. I hadn’t meant to kill him. But I just didn’t understand the extent of my powers. After I had killed him, I got scared. I knew the warlock would punish me for killing him. He was the favored one among the demons. So I buried Malevant in an unmarked grave and ran away.”

[noazmale]

TWENTY-FIVE

“So, Malevant died when you were twelve?” asked Leo. “That doesn’t make any sense.”

“I’m coming to that,” said Michael. “After I ran away, I was found by a witch. She took me in and taught me how to use my powers for good. When I was eighteen, my demonic half surfaced. Not the evil part, just the powers. So I found I could be either a demon or a White Lighter, whichever I chose.

“That witch became my foster mother. She taught me everything about witches, White Lighters, and the Elders. She suggested that I could use my ability to become a demon to infiltrate the demonic forces. I looked like one of them and I had their powers. All I had to do was keep a low profile and learn what I could.”

“Ingenious,” said Cole. “So all this time you’ve been spying for the Elders.”

“Yes,” said Michael. “How do you think they learn much of their information? I began to rise in the ranks of the demonic hierarchy. Slowly at first, of course. I didn’t want to become too noticeable. Whenever I had the opportunity, I’d rise up another link in the chain.

“Eventually, I was on the same level as Beelzbor and the others. It’s not easy, I can tell you, pretending to be a demon without taking human life. I specialized myself into being more of an advisor rather than actually participating. My advice was always good. Unfortunately, the forces of good always seemed to know what was going on. I was very careful to make sure it wasn’t linked back to me.”

“A double agent,” said Leo. “No one ever suspected. As Malevant, you were so determined on destroying Michael, no one ever suspected you were the same person.”

“That was my own idea,” said Michael. “Eventually I decided that a feud between us would help allay suspicions. I was even able to make it appear that I was fighting myself. Pass by a window and throw a fireball as Michael, then orb back unseen from the outside. Then I’d pass by the window again as Malevant, and throw another fireball where I had been standing only seconds before. It was very effective. Most who watched my ‘fights’ just assumed there were two of us.”

“As I did,” said Leo, “when I saw you fight. I never imagined anything like that.”

“You weren’t supposed to,” said Michael. “It was supposed to be the illusion of both of us. After my foster mother died, I decided to devote myself to good. So the subterfuge began.”

“Wait a minute,” said Cole. “What do you mean died? You’ve claimed for more than eighty years that Belthazor killed her.”

“Yes,” said Michael. “More subterfuge to conceal my secret. She died of natural causes. I figured if everyone thought you had killed her, they’d be more inclined to accept that Malevant and I were separate entities. You were a demon, so killing you was always one of my priorities anyway.”

“So what do you do about it now?” asked Cole. “You know I was Belthazor. And you’ve always swore you’d kill him one day.”

“Yes,” said Michael. “Belthazor was just another high level demon. I thought if I made up the story about him killing my mother, I could kill him without suspicion. Otherwise, someone might wonder why I was going after him specifically.

“I publicly blamed Belthazor for my mothers’ death, though he hadn’t actually killed her. And I did plan to kill him the first chance I got. But I don’t sense Belthazor in you any more. The Charmed Ones must have vanquished him. I don’t know Cole Turner. But I have nothing against him. Cole Turner is just another human who needs protection from demons as far as I’m concerned.”

[noazmale]

TWENTY-SIX

“How did you know we had vanquished Belthazor?” asked Phoebe. “No one told you that.”

“It was the only possible answer,” said Michael. “Belthazor was a high level demon. Not as high level as Beelzbor or the rest, but high enough. If he had been vanquished, it would take a powerful witch to do it. Or three powerful witches. It could only be the Charmed Ones.”

“How did you recognize me?” asked Cole. “We only met a handful of times and I was always in my demon form. You never saw me in my human form, as far as I know.”

“Only once,” said Michael. “The last time we fought. When was that? About forty years ago? I was going to kill you then. But one of my powers is precognition, just like Phoebes’. It’s not as powerful as hers. I only get the visions two or three times a year at most.

“During our last fight, I got a premonition when I touched you. It was only a flash. I saw a young woman throw a potion on you and watched you being vanquished. Then, for just a split second, a human stood in your place. I never understood that vision until I met you here.

“When I first saw you, I couldn’t place you. Then I remembered the vision. I knew you were Belthazor. But I had known Belthazor had been vanquished. The only answer that made any sense was that only your demon half had been vanquished.”

“Actually,” said Cole, “Phoebe used a power stripping potion on me. It stripped Belthazor away, leaving only me.”

“Ingenious,” said Michael. “I never thought it would work that way.”

“I was only half demon,” said Cole. “I was also half human. I guess that explains why it worked the way it did.”

“Wait a minute,” said Piper. “You started this whole thing. Beginning with Jessica and those Guardians, didn’t you?”

“You’re very smart,” said Michael. “Yes, actually I did. I apologize for everything you’ve been through, but it was necessary.”

“You’re sorry?” asked Piper, her anger flaring. “We’ve had God knows how many demons in our home, Paige was nearly killed by a syphon demon, my husband and sister were kidnapped and nearly killed and you’re sorry? Where the hell do you get off putting us in danger like that?”

“Piper, calm down,” said Leo. “If Michael did this, I’m sure he had a very good reason.”

“Like hell I’ll calm down,” said Piper. “We have enough demons and warlocks and who knows what else coming after us every day. Now he goes even further. He sets up a plan to actually draw them to us. Who the hell do you think you are?”

[noazmale]

TWENTY-SEVEN

“Piper,” said Michael calmly, “I understand your anger. I don’t blame you. I really don’t. And, on the surface, it does appear that I was very callous with your lives. I can assure you, nothing could be further from the truth. If you’ll give me a moment, I’ll be glad to explain exactly what happened.”

“This had better be good,” said Piper angrily.

“It is,” said Michael. “It actually started several days before you destroyed the Source. He asked me about using the Hollow to destroy you. I advised against it. Not only because it would make him unbelievably powerful, but because everyone knows the Hollow could destroy all magic everywhere.”

“They know about that,” said Leo. “I explained it to them.”

“Good,” said Michael. “Anyway, he told me he could control it. And that he was going to unleash it to destroy you. Before I could do anything about it, he had already unleashed it. There was nothing I could do but wait and hope you could stop him. Thankfully, you did.

“But my spies told me that Beelzbor and the others were talking. They told me that they were forming an alliance to choose the new Source. There could be nothing more dangerous in the underworld. One of the reasons good can triumph over evil is that the demons are constantly fighting with each other. Trying to gain more power.

“If those demons had ever formed their alliance, they could have destroyed you easily. I couldn’t let that happen. So I devised a plan to prevent them from forming their alliance.”

“By attacking us?” asked Piper. “That’s one hell of a plan.”

“It was the only one that allowed me to draw them out and still maintain my cover as a demon,” said Michael. “If they had suspected what I was doing, they would have joined forces and destroyed me, leaving you vulnerable. The first part was sending Jessica to you. That part was true. I needed to contact the Guardians and arrange for them to come get her. And she needed to be protected while I did.

“Before that, I made a deal with Beelzbor and the others. I convinced them that only the most powerful of demons could replace the Source. To prove who was the most powerful, I suggested that whomever could destroy you would prove they were the most powerful.

“This was a dangerous ploy, but the only one available. It limited the attacks on you to one demon at a time. I knew you could handle that. You’ve proven it time and time again. Since I knew in advance what each of them was going to do, I was in a unique position to foil their plans. Besides, when Mephistan interfered with my attack, it allowed me to destroy him with a legitimate reason. And I didn’t have to expose myself to protect you.”

“What about the syphon demon?” Paige asked. “I nearly died from that attack. I’m still not up to full strength.”

“I’m sorry for that,” said Michael. “I tried to prevent the attack, but I couldn’t. So I did the next best thing. I steered Dr. Coombs your way. Not even he was aware I was doing it. But as it turned out, things worked out for the best.”

“I guess I can understand that,” said Paige. “And Peter is a great man. Maybe I should be thanking you.”

“I guess that should go for me, too,” said Coombs, smiling at Paige.

“What about Leo and me being taken captive?” asked Phoebe. “Was that part of your plan?”

“Yes,” said Michael. “I convinced them to make sure you wouldn’t be harmed until Piper showed up. I told them you would be needed, alive and unharmed, if we had any chance of trapping Piper. I kidnapped Leo, knowing all the time that he was in no real danger. My ‘underlings’ wouldn’t dare harm him. Before I went to help you and Piper, I went to the underworld to release Leo.”

“That’s why you orbed out as soon as Piper left,” said Cole, “instead of waiting for her to call.”

“Yes,” said Michael. “I also had that spell prepared by a witch friend of mine. To undo the protection spell the others had cast and to weaken them so it would be easier to destroy them.”

“I couldn’t figure out why you had given me that spell instead of the power stripping spell that you said it was,” said Piper. “But I figured with it, we at least stood a chance. As it was, my powers weren’t working and Phoebe was tied up.”

“I was counting on that reaction,” said Michael. “Once the others were dead, I had planned to shimmer out before you could attack me. Thus perpetuating my illusion of being two separate individuals.”

“Except you were hurt,” said Phoebe.

“More than hurt,” said Michael. “I was dying and I knew it. And as I’m sure you’re aware, a White Lighter can’t heal himself. I knew that Leo was my only hope if I was to survive.

“Piper, I would never have put you in any danger if I could have found another way. But it was the only way to stop the others. You three were the only ones powerful enough to stand against them. And with their deaths, their underlings and replacements will go back to the infighting and bickering they are infamous for.

“The alliance Beelzbor and the others had proposed would have upset the balance between good and evil. If the demons ever learned just how much they can accomplish if they cooperate, scores of witches would suffer. As it is, the balance is restored and everything is as it should be.”

“Well,” said Piper, “I guess I can understand why you did it. I just wish you had said something.”

“I couldn’t,” said Michael smiling. “To do that, I would have had to reveal that Malevant and I were the same person. That wasn’t an acceptable option. Only the Elders know my secret. The Elders and now you. If I’m to continue funneling information to the Elders about demonic activity, I have to maintain my secret.”

“Your secret is safe with us, Michael,” said Leo.

“I hope so,” said Michael. “I’m putting my life in your hands. If any of the underworld ever learn who I am, I won’t live long enough to orb out.”

“I don’t think you have much to worry about that,” said Piper. “We’re not on speaking terms with most demons.” She glanced over at Cole. “At least, not any more.”

“Thank you,” said Michael. “Well, I do have charges to protect. Staying around here to make sure you all survived has caused me to neglect them. I should be going. This time, for real.”

“The next time you visit,” said Piper, “leave all the cloak and dagger behind. I’m not sure my nerves can take any more.”

“I promise,” said Michael, smiling. “Leo, it was nice seeing you again. I hope we get a chance to catch up on old times soon.”

“Me, too, Michael,” said Leo.

“Cole,” said Michael, turning to Cole. “You may be fully human now, but humans are capable of good or evil. I hope you will turn out to be the former.”

“I’m trying,” said Cole. “With their help,” he indicated the sisters, “I’m sure I can.”

“No doubt,” said Michael. “Well, I have to go. I’m sure you won’t have much to worry about demon attacks for a while. The demons in charge now are going to have establish their control before they can start thinking about you. Take care of yourselves.”

Michael orbed out and was gone.

“Some interesting friends you have there, sweetheart,” said Piper, turning to Leo. “Tell me, honey. Do you have any other friends who are part demon?”

“Not that I know of,” said Leo.

“Good,” said Piper. “One half demon half White Lighter is about all I can stand.”

“He’s the only one, I promise,” said Leo.

“Cole,” said Phoebe, “why don’t you and I go out and get something to eat? All this work has made me famished.”

“Now that’s a good idea,” said Coombs. “I’m not sure I’m used to these demons and witches and angels things, but I do know that we all need to eat. And Paige can use the strength. Want to make it a double date?”

“Okay with me,” said Phoebe. “What about you, Cole?”

“Sounds good,” said Cole. “Leo, Piper, want to make it a triple date?”

“Naw, you four go on,” said Piper. “I think I’d like to stay home alone with my husband for once.”

As the four left for dinner, Leo turned to Piper.

“Are you sure you don’t want to join them?” he asked. “It’s not often we get a chance to spend an evening out with your sisters.”

“Like I said,” said Piper, “I want to spend some time alone with you. Cole and Phoebe need the night out. And Paige needs to get to know her Dr. Honey a bit. Besides, I think we can keep ourselves occupied while they’re out. What do you think?”

Leo didn’t say a word. He just smiled, kissed her, and then orbed them both up to their bedroom.

The End

If you’ve enjoyed this story, you can find more “Charmed” stories at my website, www.geocities.com/killeenmale/. You can also post your own “Charmed” stories if you like to write fan fiction.