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Post by Tim on Sept 2, 2016 23:31:02 GMT -5
16. Family (Love) Business
UNDERWORLD, TWO WEEKS LATER
Zankou was walking through a large, dark, dank cave with a glass in his one hand as purple orbs formed in front of him. The Elder raised an eyebrow and silently questioned him, making the demon sigh. "Okay, I was bored. Thanks for your last tip. My past self is secured by another partner of mine. Anyway, what's up?"
"My pleasure," Gideon only offered, slightly disgusted but still amused. "Have you maybe found some darklighters on your way down here?" Yet he couldn't help to be curious. "Who's that partner you mentioned?"
"Not your concern." Zankou smiled at him knowingly. "You sure have some secrets as well?" His opposite nodded. "See. I've found a lair close by. Out of curiosity: Why are those darklighters needed? What for?"
"Well," the Elder began rather nervously. "I feel it in my bones that the Halliwells are closing up on me and I need a distraction, especially for Leo and Chris. You get my meaning?"
The future demon grinned and started to walk to the lair, gesturing for the Elder to follow him. "Yeah, I do. Besides, if you distract Leo or Piper now, there'd be no Chris. Today's the day."
"Interesting. How do you know?"
"Wyatt's babbling. Taking after his aunt Phoebe in that case." Zankou stopped at the lair where the darklighters were playing some games, bored. Dead bored. "And here's your little darklighter army. Guys, I've got work for you. Great work."
The Lieutenant stood up and eyed the strangers curiously. "Zankou? Who is this and how could we help?"
Before the demon could reply, the Elder beat him, slapping him on the chest to stop him and stepping forward. "You see I have to avoid being found out by the Halliwells. You'd have to distract the men of the house, except little Wyatt. Leo and Chris are very suspicious of me." Then he grinned. "I'd give you a some useful help for it. Do we have a deal?"
All darklighters looked confused and conflicted at each other before the Lieutenant decided. "Deal. Tell us your plan, Elder." And the darklighters were supplied with all the information the other two had.
MEANWHILE AT THE MANOR
A great party was going on, yet Chris couldn't be happy. His thoughts were occupied by Zankou and Gideon since Phoebe had told him and Leo about her little vision at Magic School. Sighing, he looked around and a small smile whooshed over his young face from time to time.
His father came to him. "Hey buddy, everything okay? Don't you enjoy the day?"
"I wish I could." Chris looked up smirking. "Please don't forget about your night's 'work' tonight! If you remember."
"You worry too much," Leo offered smiling. "Just like your Mom." His youngest son only glared at him. The father laughed and gestured to the kitchen. "What are Phoebe and Paige doing there? It's quiet."
Chris blushed a bit. "Well," he began nervously. "They are working on something for me. Nothing for you to know."
"Leo!" came Piper's voice from the party.
"You should go, Dad. I'm fine," Chris assured him who raised an eyebrow but accepted the wish, walking back to his wife. After the son was sure, Leo was out of hearing distance, he turned to the kitchen and demanded quietly, "How does the love potion go? We're running out of time."
"You mean you," Paige responded sarcastically. Her nephew just rolled his eyes. "Anyway, we have to be careful still." She twinkled her eyes at him. "Besides, you want to have it come 'naturally'."
"Yeah," Phoebe agreed smiling. "We don't want it to be too virile and not too obvious for them if we gonna put it in their drinks."
"Thank you for loving me so much," Chris spat out. He shook his head and gestured to the living room. "I'm gonna check on Mom, Dad and Wy. You'll find me there."
Wyatt's guests were leaving and both parents sighed in relief. Turning around, Piper and Leo with Wyatt found their youngest smirking who stood in between. The moment the youngest sister looked up, she saw orbs. Dark orbs, making her run, to warn Chris and dragged Phoebe with her.
The darklighter smiled and fired his crossbow at his victim. The arrow splitted into two and hit Chris in the shoulder and in the hip, making the boy fall and the darklighter vanished smiling.
Chris just felt pain. Immense pain and his mouth was dry. He could hear distant voices, shouting his name, yet he noticed some strange magic in the distance. But before he could warn anyone, the darkness swallowed him.
The four adults gasped shocked. Wyatt immediately orbed to his brother and raised his forcefield around them. No one knew how to react but all knew they had to act fast.
"Oh my God!" Phoebe yelled and was about to help her nephew when another darklighter appeared. "Piper, Leo! Watch out!"
The parents turned angrily around, facing the darklighter. Piper beat her husband and blew him up, causing a great explosion in the living room. It swallowed not only the darklighter but also Leo and Piper, leaving the room empty.
"Oh my …," Phoebe began again and ran now to her nephews. Wyatt let his forcefield drop and the middle sister pulled the arrows out. "Chris, stay with us! Please, don't die!"
Paige reacted now as well. "Kevin! Roland! Anyone 'Up There'! We need help!" A pause followed, making Paige turn to her older sister. "Do you think they'll come?"
"I don't know but they should hurry," Phoebe replied sadly, stroking over Chris' hair. "He's dying and I don't know yet if Wyatt can heal."
Paige yelled once more. "Kevin! Roland! Anyone! We need help! Chris is dying!"
Finally, after two long minutes, Kevin formed in their room. "Oh my God," he only said, already kneeling down and healing the future man. "What happened? And where are Piper and Leo?"
"A darklighter happened," Paige explained, seeing as her older sister was not able to. "We don't know where they are. A great explosion was there and poof, all were gone."
"Oh," Kevin only offered. "He was close to death but it'd take some time before he wakes up. I'll need to go now. Be careful, especially around Gideon." The young Elder orbed back 'Up There'.
The younger Charmed Ones just nodded and would wait until Chris was awake, because he knew all of this better than they did. Phoebe and Paige feared for the worst.
MANOR, ASTRAL PLANE
There were coughs. After the smoke had cleared, it revealed a confused looking Piper and Leo. The woman waved the smoke with the hand away. "Alright, what the hell was that? And is Chris okay? I fear for him still, Leo." She looked around. "We're at home but …"
"I think we're in the Ghostly Plane and this explosion was more," Leo explained, dusting himself off. "Anyway, this is advanced magic and definitely not something the darklighters can do."
"Okay. So you think it's Elder magic?" Her husband nodded. "Gideon?" Again a slow nod. Piper sighed. "And Chris? Is he okay by now?"
"I hope so, because I'm sure Phoebe and Paige called for help. But we should be more concerned about that darklighter right now," Leo said, looking around nervously.
"Indeed," the darklighter suddenly said, shocking the couple. "My name's Damien. You are right though, it was an Elder who came to us. With Zankou." His opposites gasped. "Anyway, you disturb Leo. Along with Chris."
"So, you're here to kill me?" Leo asked knowingly.
"Yeah, well. No you, no Chris. Or … No wait, I just need and can kill you." Damien showed his crossbow. "So, let's play a bit."
Leo grabbed his wife and tried to orb but failed in his used task. He shoved Piper to the door. "Run! It's our only way!" The couple started to run as being this their only way to survive.
Damien laughed after them. "You can't hide here! I'll find you! No matter what." He slowly followed them, knowing this world was to his advantage.
IN THE REAL WORLD
Phoebe had taken Chris' head in her lap and stroked through his brown hair. She still asked herself how blind she'd been at first. "I still can't believe it. I mean, he looks just like Piper …"
"… and sometimes acts like Leo," Paige continued grinning, taking their other nephew in her lap. She gestured to the still sleeping Chris. "Either he's exhausted, dead tired or we'll get a problem soon."
"What do you mean?" Phoebe was irritated but a soft moaning distracted both of them. Phoebe smiled. "Hey Chris, welcome back. How you're feeling?"
Chris slowly sat up and immediately Wyatt was in his lap. He looked confused at his aunts. "What happened? And where are Mom and Dad?"
"We don't know. We thought you could help us here," Paige explained and looked at him hopefully. He didn't react. "Chris? Is everything okay with you?"
"Yeah," the young man replied, deep in thought. "I just need to gather my thought before I'd been unconscious but I can assure you there was Elder magic involved."
"You mean like … Gideon's?" Phoebe asked hesitantly and her nephew nodded. She shared a concerned look with her baby sister.
"Alright," Paige exclaimed, standing up and taking charge for the moment. "We don't achieve anything by sitting down. We'll need to find your parents as fast as we can!"
"Agreed," Chris said, standing up as well but swayed on the spot. "Whoa, I don't want to worry you but I don't feel so good."
Another concerned look crossed over the sisters' faces. "Lie down, honey," Phoebe spoke up and guided both her nephews to the couch. "We'll call you if we need you or have found anything, okay?"
"Okay," Chris whispered back, already falling asleep with Wyatt close to him. "They may not be here anymore but will return. That's for sure." Then he breathed like in a deep slumber.
Paige and Phoebe observed yet how Wyatt leaned onto Chris and raised his forcefield. Just in case as the brothers would be alone for some time. A little shove from Paige reminded Phoebe of their task and both younger Charmed Ones walked up the stairs.
SAN FRANCISCO, ASTRAL PLANE
The couple was out of breath and stopped in a park where, in the future, their younger son would make his move on his fiancee. Still, the parents sat down on a bench which was hidden by a bush. They were safe for the moment.
"Alright, spill," Piper began annoyed after she could talk again. "What's so special about today? Except being Wyatt's birthday."
Leo sighed. "Okay. We both had seen Wyatt and Chris together and how big, you think, is their age difference? Try to picture them and then tell me."
Piper closed her eyes and pictured her boys in her mind. Though they looked nothing alike, still they seemed close in age. "I don't know. Maybe two, three years. Why are you asking? I don't understand."
Leo now grinned. "Well, you're almost right. It's nearly two years. Or to be exact, one year and nine months. And today it's Wyatt first birthday. You do the math!"
Piper blushed. "Oh no. You mean today?" Her husband nodded in confirmation. "Great. Nine months over the toilet for me again." Then her look became dreamy. "But I love him and want my baby in my life."
Leo kissed her on the cheek. "Me too, me too. Wyatt already likes him, so there should be no problems in the future when the baby comes. Besides, he looks up to Chris."
Piper kissed her husband on the lips lovingly. "Should we return to the Manor? Is it safe for you there, because I'm sure our darklighter waits for us close by."
"That's a risk I'm going to take." Leo kissed her back, stood up and took her hand. "Are you ready to go home and conceive our baby boy? Besides, I'm sure your sisters could help us back there better."
The eldest Charmed One nodded and together they walked back to the Manor, talking about their family and all. Here, they were just a normal couple – like any other.
SHORT CUT TO THE UNDERWORLD
Gideon paced in front of the darklighters. "Since we don't hear anything from Damien, I take it our plan has worked so far. Though I'd like to know if they knew who's behind this."
The Lieutenant looked at him. "Should we attack the house again? We hate waiting, you know."
"I'm aware of that fact. Still, it's better I'll go first, because with being an Elder I can be invisible." The Elder was sure of himself.
The Lieutenant rolled his eyes. "Sure, do as you like but don't forget about us!"
Gideon barely nodded, waved his hand and orbed back to the normal world.
MANOR, REAL WORLD
Chris awoke, still tired but clearly disoriented. He heard his brother squeal beside him but still, something was off. By a look at his hand, he knew what was wrong. He was ceasing to exist. "Phoebe! Paige!" he yelled shocked.
Both women were running down immediately. "Chris, what's wrong?" Phoebe asked concerned. "What did you yell for?"
Incredulously Chris waved his transparent hand in front of his aunts. "See, I'm fading. I do hope Mom and Dad come together soon! Besides, you should take Wyatt with you."
"Whoa," Paige only said stunned. "Definitely a new look for you. Why should we take Wyatt? I know for sure he wouldn't leave your side, would you, Wy?" The toddler shook his head immediately. "See."
"I just don't want to scare Wy for life."
Phoebe and Paige looked at each other sadly and deep concerned. They didn't know how to react to his admission. So they did the only thing which would help him: The aunts hugged their younger nephew and Wyatt also got a bit.
"Alright, you'll stay here," Paige demanded, taking charge for the moment. "We'll shuttle between here and the attic. If need be, yell again! Or give us some clues!" She gave him a look which said all.
Chris looked around. "I'm sure there's a portal here." Then he looked at his aunts. "We need information about portals!"
"Fine," Phoebe said. "And where do we find it? Magic School?" Her nephew nodded. "Gideon would know then that we're suspicious of him already. So what now?"
"Glamor," Paige said suddenly excitedly. "Of course. Whitelighter can do that!" She quickly ran back to the attic, ignoring the others' confused looks.
Phoebe stroked over Chris' arm before going to follow her younger sister. She could see that her nephew faded away. Slowly. This thought made her shiver and she had to flee now.
For hours, one of the younger Charmed Ones looked after their nephews but Chris became more and more transparent. Until he was only silhouette and his aunts couldn't face him anymore. The young man paced in front of his crying brother who he couldn't even comfort. Then he backed away as a familiar figure materialized.
"Chris, I'm so sorry," Penny offered sadly, almost in tears. "Believe me. Where I'll send you, it's safe." Penny then picked Wyatt up, gently spoke to him before sending Chris to a good friend of hers. She'd wanted to spare her great-grandson this fate but still had hope for the best.
After ten long minutes, Grams walked up to the attic to join Phoebe and Paige and guide them in their help.
MANOR, ASTRAL PLANE
Piper and Leo were in hiding, because the moment they had entered their ghostly home, they'd been shot with arrows. Bluntly: They were under attack. Leo tried his best to not get hit, yet it was not easy since Piper had to cover him always.
"Great idea of yours to go back home," the woman complained after several attacks.
"Hey, we're now in the open but we can always crawl deeper into the house," the man replied exasperated. What earned him a hard slap on his arm. "Okay, okay. Let's go!"
The couple crawled deeper in before sighing in relief as they were out of sight. Despite the situation, the woman moved closer to her man and was about to kiss him but held back by his hand. "Why?" she only asked bewildered.
"When we're in our room," he whispered back but kissed her now quickly. He just grabbed her hand and both ran to the stairs and up to their room. Now he was ready to let her do as she wanted. "Piper, do you want to have another baby now?"
"Of course, Leo," she grinned back. "This baby will be ours as much as Wyatt already is. I still can't believe that I didn't see it before. Chris is an exact copy of me." A hand stopped her babbling. "What?"
Leo just kissed his wife again and slowly moved with his kisses down her body, building up the sexual tension and his one and only woman moaned softly. He began to undress her like she did with him and both landed on a bed which was suddenly there. They didn't question but were just in love. Long.
After some hours Piper woke up and sighed satisfied on her husband's chest. "Do you think it worked? That we're going to have another baby. A very neurotic baby."
Leo giggled and kissed his wife again. "I'm sure but I'd only feel it if we're in the normal world. Not here. But then again, if your sisters rescue us, we should be back in the living. There must be the portal." He was deep in thought.
Piper nodded. "I believe you." She looked at him knowingly. "So if we go back, we'd be out in the open for the darklighter again. You could get hurt."
"I know but it's worth the risk." Leo touched Piper's flat stomach. "At least, Chris' baby self won't get hurt too. Through my blood. I don't want to lose my son. Either version."
Piper kissed him on his nose. "You'll be a good father to Chris this time. And Wyatt as well. So are you ready to face our darklighter again?" Then she looked at herself. "After we'll get dressed."
Leo giggled and started to dress himself while his wife did the same. After a while they were ready and walked hand in hand back to the front where their familiar darklighter had waited patiently. After some misses, Leo was hit with an arrow on his left upper body.
"Leo!" Piper shrieked shocked and guided him behind the couch, hiding there. She took care of his wound but both waited for Damien to enter again. After all, all three must return. She only hoped her baby sister would think quickly when they returned.
MANOR, ATTIC, REAL WORLD
Paige and Phoebe were working on a potion for the darklighter as Penny with a quietly crying Wyatt in her arms entered the room. Confused they looked at each other before the older sister spoke up, "Grams? Not that I mind but what are you doing here?" She looked around. "Where is Chris?"
"Safe. I've sent him to someone I know in Heaven," the matriarch offered and tried hard to be strong. "Anyway, what are you doing and how's your process to find Piper and Leo?"
"Well, we'd need a specific book from Magic School, yet we don't want to get Gideon more suspicious or that we know he's behind all this," Paige explained and saw how Grams was getting angry. "We feel the same but Piper and Leo now need us more."
"True. Here, take Wyatt! I'll be back," Penny decided fast and vanished suddenly. Only two minutes later she was back with a book in her hands. "Here the book and now hurry! Time's running. I'll keep Wyatt busy meanwhile."
The younger Charmed Ones smiled at each other but did as told. Quickly they had everything ready and the three women, with a baby in tow, walked back to the living where it all had begun. Grams bound her first great-grandson on her hip, shushing him before giving Phoebe and Paige a signal to recite the spell.
LIVING ROOM
Piper and Leo were waiting for anything to happen. Like Damien. All of a sudden, all was back to normal and Damien looked confused around. Then Phoebe hit him with the potion but there was no effect. Damien saw his chance and fired now at Paige.
"Crossbow!" she called and the crossbow orbed to her before the arrow had left. Now she returned the favor and fired at him. Damien was vanquished and all sighed relieved. "Alright, you can come out now. The danger's gone."
Piper came up behind the couch. "Oh thank God, we're back! But Leo needs healing! Call someone, please!" She looked around afraid but only saw Wyatt. "Where's my baby? Where is he? Chris!"
"Kevin!" Paige yelled while walking to her sister and brother-in-law. "Kevin! We need healing, again! Leo needs it!"
A chime was heard and the young Elder healed his companion. While doing it, he turned to the others and said, "Don't worry. Chris will be here soon. He saw someone in Heaven and just wanted a real good bye this time."
"Bianca?" Piper guessed knowingly and Kevin nodded. "That's okay. I'm sure he'll come when he's done. So?"
Leo sat up and thanked Kevin who then orbed back and promised to send Chris home. Leo just kissed his wife and laid a hand on her stomach. "I'm so happy and can't wait to see him as a baby for the first time," he said excitedly.
"Ugh," said a very familiar voice suddenly. "Could you please not talk about this yet! This is a weird image."
"Chris!" anyone shrieked excitedly and hugged the young man tightly. But being it too many people, all landed on the ground. Laughing.
"Uff," Chris said amused and quickly caught his brother's orbs. "Hi Wy." He kissed the boy on the forehead. "So, how did you manage all this?" he asked curiously.
While Phoebe and Paige now told their nephew in every detail of what they had done and Piper and Leo just listened to the story and were loving each other like any other couple. Penny Halliwell quietly observed her family and smiled. Before leaving, the matriarch kissed both boys' head and ruffled their hair what they returned with a half glare. Kissing them once more, Penny finally left the Manor – in a good mood.
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Post by Tim on Sept 2, 2016 23:31:56 GMT -5
17. Old Gangs & The Truth
THREE MONTHS LATER
Piper was an emotional woman these days. Her second pregnancy was slowly beginning to be seen, yet her baby, in his adult self, was on a demon hunting marathon in the underworld. That was not the only thing she was worried about. Leo had been constantly called by Gideon, to come and talk. So far he'd refused but he was getting a headache from the constant jingling.
"Piper?" Leo asked while entering the kitchen. "Is everything okay with you? You look troubled. Is it the baby?"
"More his adult version," Piper admitted sighing. "Are Phoebe and Paige already gone to Phoebe's school reunion? This would be good news for once."
"Yes, they are. Don't worry so much." He received a glare. "Okay, okay." Leo walked over to her and tried to lay a hand on her slightly showing belly which she let happen for once. He smiled but cringed then. "Damn."
"Gideon?" Piper asked knowingly and Leo nodded. "Then you should go before he really forces you to go." She looked up at him. "I called Dad to help me with Chris."
"Good idea," Leo agreed but then cringed even more. "I'll go now. Please, just call me if you need me. He's my son too." He kissed her briefly before orbing away.
Piper sighed. As the doorbell rang, she walked out of the kitchen and answered it. Opening she greeted her father, "Hey Dad, so nice you could come. I so need you right now."
"Hi Piper," Victor greeted back, hugging his daughter and noticed her belly. "Hey, I see you two did it. Where are my grandsons?"
"Wyatt's sleeping in his crib upstairs and Chris is somewhere in the underworld, trying to kill some threats to Wyatt." Piper began to shake and her father led her to the couch. "I fear for him so much."
"Shsh, it's okay," Victor said calmly to the worried mother. He hoped to calm her. "Where's Leo, by the way?" he wanted to know.
"He's been called away by his mentor, because he'd been here all the time." Piper looked at him. "Could you call Chris? We'll need to talk."
Victor nodded and yelled for his grandson. He hoped Chris would come.
BAKERS' HIGH SCHOOL REUNION
Phoebe was nervous. After all, she'd see her old gang again and that made her afraid. Plus, she was rather famous column writer. The middle sister grabbed her baby sister's hand very tightly and nervously.
"Phoebe, relax, would you?" Paige assured sighing. She was so eager to find out more about her older sister. "What gang you were in at school? Let me know."
"You wouldn't want to know." Paige only glared at her. "Okay, okay, you've won. We were four. Rick, Ramona, Todd and me and I can assure you we were troublesome. The teachers didn't like us and they had let us feel it anytime. Thank God, I changed."
"Yeah. Now come on, let's face your past," Paige said and shoved her sister to the entrance where a teacher was waiting for them. "Uh, who is she?" the younger sister whispered asking.
Phoebe shook her head smiling and greeted her old teacher, "Um, hello, Mrs Hickhock. Nice to see you again. How's life?"
The older woman laughed. "Welcome back, Ms Halliwell. I've been good, yet I'd been told years ago you're working now as an advice columnist. They set the fox to keep the geese." Mrs Hickhock laughed slightly and gave her the ID. "Have fun!"
Phoebe grumbled not so happy but Paige was curious. "Let me guess, sport?" She only nodded and together the two Charmed Ones entered the auditorium. Immediately all gazes were onto them.
A woman came running towards them. "Uh, hi Phoebe. I'm so glad you could come. Um, that may sound crazy: Could I get a signed pic from you?" she said excitedly.
"Oh sure," Phoebe replied. "If you pay me 20 $, Ramona."
"No problem," Ramona said and opened her purse quickly.
"That was a joke, Ramona," Phoebe spoke, calming her and introduced her sister. "This is my half sister, Paige."
"Wow, you both look so great. Anyway," Ramona continued excitedly. "Did you know that Todd and Paula are married? No good choice if you ask me but they're here as well. You remember what you did in school?"
"Spill it, woman. I wanna know all details," Paige begged.
Phoebe began to dream. "Oh yeah, we'd been up to no good. I feel so ashamed now but still, it was a good time and it's something I always remember."
"That you should definitely," her ex Todd suddenly spoke up behind them. "We were children and did a lot to spread out our wings, to find our limits in this system." Then he looked sheepish. "Besides, I always read your column, Phoebe."
"Thanks. How's your life? And Paula?" You could see, Phoebe was not happy with this development but well, she had to accept this.
"We're both working and well, it pays our house and all," Todd explained, still in a good mood. "Anyway, have you seen Rick lately?"
"Ah yeah, Rick, your leader," Paige put in knowingly. "Where is he?"
"Yeah, Rick. Good ol' Rick." Phoebe dreamed again. "No, I haven't. Never seen him in years."
"Yeah, well," Ramona cut in while slurping on her drink. "From what I've heard, he's in jail for robbing a liquor store. We're not the same gang without him." She sighed.
"True," Todd confirmed but was stopped by a hand on his shoulder. It was his wife's. "Paula?"
"Hi honey. Phoebe," Paula greeted, smiling as lovingly as she could while looking at her. "You may now be famous, Phoebe but we all know you well enough. Freebie."
Incredulously Phoebe stared at the woman and could not say anything to react. Without any words, she left the auditorium. Her younger sister glared at the woman and quickly followed her. The middle sister stood in the hallway – shocked.
"Phoebe, are you okay? You look sour," Paige stated the obvious. Then, in front of her eyes, she changed. "What the …?"
"You are right. I'm sour." Phoebe noticed her sister's look. "What happened now?"
"You were a teen again. And that means, we're going home now! No backtalk!" Paige said sternly and grabbed her sister by the hand.
Phoebe let it happen as she was still too shocked to say anything. She felt betrayed, hurt and all other feelings. She hoped to calm down at home.
MAGIC SCHOOL – GIDEON'S OFFICE
Leo's orbs reformed and you could see, the Elder was annoyed. It was not only because of his headache but also that it was his mentor. Looking at him, he had to suppress his hate for the man, because he'd go after his sons.
"Hello Leo, I'm so glad you could come," Gideon greeted his old pupil. He hoped he could still make his move on Wyatt.
"You didn't leave me any other choice," Leo grumbled annoyed. "Why am I needed here? Piper's pregnant again and Wyatt needs me too. It's just I'm needed at home!"
"I know. But you're an Elder as well. You chose to be one and so you have duties!" Gideon continued in teacher mood. "I'll just want you to stay 'Up There' for good."
"Why?" Leo requested stunned. "Anyone 'Up There' has agreed for me to stay on Earth. Why not you, Sigmund and Odin? What do you want me to do? I won't leave my family."
"I really understand you, Leo. I really do but we all grow with losses. And also with love, I know." Gideon watched his pupil like a hawk, trying to find any weak points. "Anyway, how's Chris? I take it he's busy right now."
Leo looked at his old mentor with suspicions. "He is but I think it shouldn't bother you. Chris is my concern!"
"With being your son that's clear. Yeah, I know that little secret of yours. A mutual friend just confirmed my theory as you wouldn't." Gideon went through some papers. "I take it you want to go home?"
"Sure. My family needs me. We have a family reunion at the moment but there are some things where Chris would need my support for."
"Go ahead." Gideon watched him closely as Leo stood up. "By the way, why didn't you ask me about this mutual friend? Of who this is?"
Leo turned around. "I know that already. Or guessed it. We're not stupid, Gideon. And now excuse me, I'll need to go! Don't jingle me again!"
Gideon nodded briefly and watched as his old pupil orbed back to the Manor. His plan to get rid of Wyatt was detailed already and it was only a matter of time to achieve his goal. Not caring about the sacrifices he'd make.
BACK AT THE MANOR
Half an hour had passed and still there was no sign of Chris what increased Piper's anxiety level minute by minute. She hoped not to show her worry but a look at her Dad, she saw the same worry in his face. Where was Chris?
As an orb was forming, both Piper and Victor looked up hopefully but it was just Leo. The Elder was cursing under his breath before he noticed their looks. "What's going on? Has Chris come yet?" Leo asked worried.
Piper shook her head. "No, we've been calling for him but he hasn't answered. I worry so much, because this isn't like him! I know my son."
"Shsh," Victor said and hoped to calm his daughter down. "I'm sure he's been occupied with demons in the underworld. You know how he is when it comes to his family, anyone included."
"He's right," Leo agreed and squeezed his wife's hand. "I checked on Wyatt before and he's fine." Before he could say more, the front door opened and the younger Charmed Ones returned. "Phoebe? Paige?"
"We have a little problem," Paige explained smiling. "Phoebe's haunted by her own teen version. Really creepy."
"Hello family, hi Daddy," Phoebe said defeated and hugged her father briefly. "I'm going to my room. I'll need to think." She made her way up the stairs but then, "Bye bye family."
Piper looked strangely at her youngest sister. "Come again? What's happening with Phoebe?"
"Well, we've met her old gang, with their leader missing." She received raised eyebrows and Paige sighed. "Anyway, it all started as this Paula woman called Phoebe Freebie. Do you understand?"
"Oh. Yeah, I do," Piper spoke up knowingly. "Could you do me a favor, Paige?" The younger woman nodded. "Can you look after her? We've had our own problem to deal with. Please!"
"Sure." Paige followed her older sister but stopped for a moment on the stairs. "It's not Chris, is it?" The other three said nothing. "Okay, I'll watch after Phoebe. You'll find my nephew." She walked to her older sister's room, watching over her.
Piper took Victor's and Leo's arm, leading them at first to the nursery. Where no Wyatt was. Shocked their jaws dropped and on instinct, the parents and Victor made their way to the attic. There was a crying Wyatt, next to an injured, unconscious Chris. "Oh my God," Piper only said and ran to her sons. "Leo, heal!"
Leo ran over and laid Chris' upper body on his legs. He began to heal his numerous wounds and could clearly see those were acid burns. What demons could do that? Then his son came around coughing. "Chris? Some answers, please."
Chris looked sheepishly around before quickly sitting up and taking Wyatt into his lap. "Well," the young man blushed. "Oh, hi Grandpa."
"Don't change the subject, Chris!" Victor scolded before Piper could. "I'd say we'll move this talk to the living and then we'll hear all from you! Anything you did. Clear?"
Chris blushed even deeper. "Crystal, Grandpa." With his father's help, he stood up and still held his brother in his arms. "I'm fine, Dad."
Leo only raised an eyebrow and then helped his pregnant wife to go back. He shared a brief look with Victor, knowing what would come now. They just feared how Piper would react to the news.
PHOEBE'S ROOM
Paige observed lazily how her older sister paced in her room, babbling about her old life. From the attic, she could hear some angry voices but otherwise nothing. In general, she hoped for good news.
"I'm not that person anymore, I'm not," Phoebe babbled pacing in front of her mirror. "Whoa, what was that?" She was sure she'd seen her teen version again.
"Phoebe, please. Calm down. You're an adult," Paige offered knowingly. Sighing, she added, "What has caused this sudden reaction of yours? Paula?"
"You don't know her as well as I do. She's a bitch. Always has been, already in school. Paula's been envious of my love to Todd but now they're married! I can't believe this, ugh!"
"Phoebe, you can't change this fact anymore." Paige sighed but then Phoebe's cell began to ring. "I'll leave you alone for a while. Be right back!"
The middle sister grabbed her cell nervously. "Hello? Here's Phoebe, I hope," she answered the call.
"Hey," came Todd's voice over the speaker. "Are you okay? Just don't listen to anything she says." He cleared his throat. "Are you still there?"
"Yeah, yeah." Phoebe looked at herself in the mirror. "Ehm, don't you sometimes wish to be a child again? Or a teen?"
"Phoebe, that's normal as kids. We did a lot of mischief. We were children. Why do you think that way?"
"Oh, just so. You know I miss that time."
"Me too," Todd agreed but suddenly there was another voice coming over. "Who are you talking to?" It was Paula who just grabbed Todd's cell. "Is there Freebie?"
Phoebe changed back to her teen self. For good. "Exactly, you bitch!" She closed the cell and had already a plan in mind. Walking to her window, she quickly opened it and climbed the wall down. Going back to the reunion.
As Paige returned, she found the room empty. "Great, just great. She's gone. But where would she go to?" Paige paced a bit. "The reunion!" Quickly she hurried to the front door.
LIVING ROOM – SAME TIME
The four adults and the baby sat down. No one knew what to say, only that Chris played a bit with his brother to avoid any questions. Looking at anyone, Chris hoped they'd forget about this fiasco.
"Alright, could we please know what demons you're dealing with?" Piper asked after some silence. "And then, I want to know your three's secret!"
Leo, Victor and Chris shared a weird look before the youngest man sighed and explained, "Alright, I was in the Scabber demons' lair, trying to find out if they were a threat to Wyatt. In the future." He sighed. "Those demons are known for spitting out acid stuff. Though I can't understand how they did know who I was."
"Wait, you were found out?" Leo asked bewildered and his son nodded. "Did you hear Piper's or Victor's calling?"
"I did but I couldn't flee right now. If I had, they'd have found out immediately! Still, they did and attacked me right away. I had to flee and orbed home as quick as I could, yet I landed in the attic where Wyatt then found me."
"Okay, that explains how you were in the attic," Piper said, looking at Chris but then Paige hurried past them, catching Piper's attention. "Paige, what are you doing? What's going on?"
The youngest sister stopped, turned around and spoke quickly, "Phoebe's escaped me but I'll bring her back. Before she does anything, she might regret later!" And with that she was out of the house.
Some snorts drew the eldest sister's attention back to the men. "I didn't forget about you three." Piper started with her father. "Dad, what do you know?"
Victor sighed. "Well, when Chris came to me for the first time, he occupied the couch like he was used to. Anyway, while he was sleeping, I heard him mumbling." Here he swallowed hard.
"What did Chris mumble about?" Piper was curious but dreaded the answer.
However, Chris was seated between Leo and Victor, so there was no escape for him. He could see how his Grandpa had trouble speaking this aloud and Chris squeezed his hand, letting him know he spoke now. "You see, Mom. What anyone is afraid of to tell you is … that you're going to die when I turn 14."
Piper gasped and looked at her husband and father who looked down sadly. And her son had silent tears running over his cheeks. She knew who needed her help mostly and immediately took her baby in a soothing embrace. "Shsh, Chris. I'm here, I'm here."
"I'm sorry that I didn't tell you. I was afraid."
"It's okay, I understand. I'd been through the same as Prue, Phoebe and I traveled back to the 1970ies." Piper could feel her son nod against her chest. "Maybe, maybe you changed my destiny already while being here?"
"Maybe," Chris agreed quietly.
"That's true," Victor assured as well. "If you change Wyatt's destiny, you'll change also your mother's, right?" Again a nod. "See, your trip to here was definitely not in vain."
Leo stood up, kissing both his wife and son. As well as his baby. "I'm going to check on Phoebe and Paige. Just in case." He orbed away.
Chris snorted at his father's words but stayed where he was. His mother seemed to take the news well. Either she'd suspected it already or, well, she could read him too well. Still, in a way, he was happy that this secret was now out in the open. Chris was ready to face Gideon at the moment.
BAKERS' REUNION AGAIN
As Teenie Phoebe entered the auditorium again, anyone looked at her shocked. Yet she had only one goal in mind: Her lover Todd. Once she spotted him in the crowd, she immediately walked to him. Ready to kiss him.
"Phoebe?" Todd questioned in disbelief. "Is that you? Why do you look like in school?"
But the teen only kissed him like there was no tomorrow. Shocking all others.
"Not again!" Paula shouted angrily and separated her husband from his ex. "What do you think you're doing here?"
Ramona stopped her friend before there could be more damage. "Stop! No, they're married! You could be in trouble later, Phoebe!"
"Well, let her do it!" Paula challenged. "Here are way too many people who can testify this! Let us see how our little column writer reacts then!"
There were some strange noises anywhere but anyone was looking at Phoebe and wondered how she'd react to the threat. But before she could, anything was frozen. Except Phoebe who looked stunned around.
"Okay, you're coming with me, big sister," Paige said and grabbed the shocked teen, orbing with her home. "Leo!"
The Elder barely nodded and used the memory dust (a lot!) to wipe anyone's memory. Sighing, he wondered what his sister-in-law would have done if she had had her way. Leo was sure that all in all it wouldn't have ended good.
BACK AT THE MANOR
Piper was holding her son tightly and just spoke quietly to him, hoping to give Chris love, strength and faith. Her other baby was sitting in Victor's lap happily and giggled at anyone. As orbs came through the ceiling, all looked up and were relieved to see Piper's younger sisters.
"You know I don't have a little sister," Phoebe said angrily as they'd reformed. Stunned the teen looked around. "Wow! What's going on? Piper? Who are this guy and baby … and she?" She gestured to Paige and then to their Dad. "What's Daddy doing here?"
All looked confused at each other. Chris spoke up first, "I think she's really a teen again." Then he turned to his Grandpa and clapped him on his back. "It's your turn now, 'Daddy'. Be one and make her an adult again." He grinned at the older man.
Another orb reformed. It was Leo who sighed. "Okay, the reunion is clear again." He looked at the others. "What are we up to?"
"Attic," Piper demanded firmly and led her sister, babies and husband to the stairs. The three adults with baby walked up but the eldest sister turned to her father smiling. "You do as my son told you! Because I'm sure we're going to need the Power of Three to get rid of Chris' demons! So, hurry up!" And she was gone.
Victor sighed and walked over to his youngest daughter. "Listen, Phoebe. I know you're a witch and a Charmed One." He grabbed her by the upper arms. "Your nephews need your help! Chris needs your help!" He shook her and then stopped. "Phoebe?"
A shock ran through the woman's body and the teen became an adult again. "Dad?" Phoebe questioned in disbelief. "Where are the others?"
"Attic, potion, spell," Victor offered rather nervously and gestured to the stairs.
Phoebe nodded and ran to the attic where she joined her family. Quickly she checked on the already written spell and agreed to it. Then she was orbed with Piper, after some arguments with Chris which she'd won, by Paige to the underworld, ready to vanquish the Scabber demons.
Leo and Chris looked at each other but Wyatt just orbed to his Grandpa. Father and son sighed but followed then their relative to Victor in the living.
SHORT CUT TO THE UNDERWORLD
The three sisters had some trouble there to find the Scabber demons' lair but they did at the end. With some effort, Piper, Phoebe and Paige managed to vanquish them with their spell, yet the demons' 'icky stuff' had to be orbed back to the source when finally all demons were vanquished. Piper demanded Paige to orb them back home. What she did.
BACK AT THE MANOR
When the Charmed Ones reformed, Victor and Leo were talking with each other just about life, it seemed while Chris played with Wyatt on the floor. Making Piper smile.
Phoebe and Paige said to her that they'd be talking in Phoebe's room about the eventful day. It was a long talk and the sisters got closer to each other since then.
Piper smiled after them and walked over to her father and husband who she leaned onto. Hers and Leo's hand were laying on her slightly swollen belly where both felt a kick then. A dazzling smile crossed their faces and the parents with Victor watched the children play.
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Post by Tim on Sept 2, 2016 23:32:54 GMT -5
18. Spins & Old Mistakes
AGAIN THREE MONTHS LATER
Piper's belly had grown over the months but that wasn't what got the mother worried. Her older son had been sent to his Grandpa for the time being, but the baby in her belly was not easy to take care of. All of a sudden, Chris had fought with his father, even though they'd bonded over the last months. She couldn't understand it.
"Piper?" came Paige's voice to her and then the younger woman stepped in. "Oh, there are you. Is everything okay?" She rubbed her sister's arm.
"I don't know." She sighed and tried to not sob. "I just can't understand why Chris suddenly avoids Leo. It was as if these last months hadn't happened. This is not like him." Piper looked at Paige a bit smiling. "Is Phoebe on her dating marathon?"
"She is, though I have no idea what she achieves with that," Paige replied rolling her eyes and Piper snorted. "See, you laugh. Anyway, has Leo said anything to Chris what could have triggered this reaction?"
Piper shook her head. "Maybe. I haven't heard anything if you ask me." She looked at her baby sister. "I just fear for both of them." She felt a kick in her belly. "I wanna see a doctor for my baby. You come with?"
Paige nodded and grabbed her car keys, leading her sister to the front door. The youngest sister was worried too but hoped she wouldn't show it. Leo and Chris had been really close over this long time but how Chris' future had been before he'd come back, they would never know.
As they reached their destination, both women looked briefly at each other before going in.
MEANWHILE IN THE UNDERWORLD
Zankou had been called to a strange place where he'd meet Gideon. Stunned he looked around and didn't know what to say. The Elder must have his reason for having this room here and the future demon would want the same in the future for him.
"I see you're impressed," came Gideon's voice to his ear. The Elder smirked. "I take it you wonder why I called? It's just simple."
"Care to share? Because I need to head back to my home. Free myself and all, you know. Before Wyatt decides to come back once more," Zankou explained annoyed and bored.
Gideon raised an eyebrow. "I'd rather not know of what had happened. Anyway, I called you, because I'd need a demonic distraction for the Halliwells. Especially Chris."
"Well, Piper's pregnant again and from what I've heard, Chris isn't the same baby like Wyatt was. You get my meaning?"
Gideon nodded. "Thanks. Is there any rumor or demon you know what could help us now?"
Zankou paced while thinking. "We have 2004, right?" The Elder nodded. "Well then, the Spider demon will surface again. She needs new food, again and with Piper pregnant. She wouldn't and couldn't resist."
"That's good. I know Piper hates spiders." Gideon looked at his partner. "Does this Spider demon surface alone or is a kick needed?"
Zankou shook his head. "She comes alone. Do we meet again after this is over?"
"Sure." And Gideon orbed away. His companion looked after him and then shimmered away.
GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE
Leo was sitting on the topbeam and tried hard not to cry. He couldn't understand why Chris was suddenly so furious and angry at him. What had he done wrong? It could only mean that it had to do with Chris' old future. He'd change, no matter what he'll have to do.
As orbs came, the man just looked up and said nothing. It was Gideon. "Leo, what are you doing here? Shouldn't you be with Piper? Or Chris?" The Elder showed concern but just received a glare.
"It doesn't bother you, Gideon," Leo said angrily and stood up. "Why are you so interested in my family? Is it the power which lies in it? Tell me!"
"Leo, you were my pupil and what you do still bothers me. You married into the most powerful family in the magical world and Wyatt, well, he's the Twice-Blessed. I just fear for you," Gideon explained calmly and looked at the father.
The man became furious now. "In case you've forgotten, Gideon, you assigned me the Charmed Ones years ago! It was clear from the start that Piper and I would fall in love with and like any other normal couple, we started a family! And to get it straight once and for all: I don't regret anything!!"
"Fine," Gideon only stated. "I'll need to go back to Magic School, anyway. Trouble with pupils, you know. We'll see each other soon again." The Elder orbed away.
Leo sighed and took deep breath to calm himself. Closing his eyes, he just listened to his inner senses and feelings. As Leo opened his eyes again, he was just enjoying the amazing view from here, knowing that his son loved this place as well. A frantic call brought the man back to reality.
"Piper?"
IN THE CITY OF S.F. - 15 MINUTES EARLIER
The two sisters were on their way back home. Piper was holding a sono in her hands and smiled. Still, anywhere she walked, anyone wanted to touch her belly and feel her baby. Soon, she was at the end of her lether and froze anyone.
"Piper, you can't freeze anyone. They're not demons," Paige pointed out annoyed. She should have known how her sister would react in public. The eldest sister had a short temper.
"That's their luck," Piper countered. "They shouldn't touch me." She waved her hand lazily at the group and anyone moved again. "Let's go home."
Paige could only sigh. Quickly she followed her sister back to where they had parked the car. On the way some orbs stopped them shortly and revealed an exhausted and dirty looking Chris who smiled rather nervously at them.
"So what did the doctor say?" he asked curiously.
"Well, you'll be happy to know you're a boy," Piper replied, holding up the sono smiling.
"That's not what I meant."
Paige looked at the sono curiously. "Where? I don't see." As her sister was about to show, the picture was snapped out of Piper's hands.
"You mind?" Chris said not to happy. Still, he looked at the sono curiously as well.
Piper and Paige shared a look but the three of them walked to Paige's car, yet the youngest sister couldn't help but dig her nephew. "You know you're neurotic, right?" She received a glare in return.
Unnoticed by them, a huge animal crawled towards them. Right in front of them, the animal changed into its human form and attacked the group.
However, Chris had a sixth sense and shoved his mother out of the way. "Demon!" he warned only before feeling immense pain on his neck. He feared for his baby self.
Before Paige could attack the demon, its vanished again. Back as an animal. The youngest sister turned to Piper who shared a concerned look with her. "What now?" she asked quietly.
Piper looked at her son afraid, grabbed him in an embrace and then spoke to her sister, "Drive us home! We need Leo to heal him! Chris?"
"Not Leo, definitely not him!" the son protested heatedly but then fell silent after his mother's glare.
"Don't argue with me, Chris!" Piper countered immediately and had to stop as she felt a kick in her belly. "Right. Paige, hurry up!"
Paige did as told and opened her car's door. Her sister and nephew stepped in and the woman took a seat in the driver's place. She started the car and drove into the horrific traffic of the city, yet she could see in the mirror that they were in trouble. Paige hurried back to the …
MANOR
Piper supported her son while Paige had opened the door and let them in. The worried mother just gave her baby sister a look which was read exactly and Paige vanished from view. Piper looked at her baby afraid and had the urge to call Leo immediately. He was needed.
"Mom, why were you so worried?" Chris wanted to know as mother and son sat at the table where Chris' wound was treated by his mother.
"I was not," Piper defended quickly but obviously her son knew her too well. Sending her a look which made her sigh and give in. "Fine. I was. Because of the forcefield."
"What forcefield?" Chris asked bewildered.
"The one she had with Wyatt," Paige spoke up, entering the room with the Book in her arms.
"What? You had one with him but not me?" Chris looked at his mother for an explanation.
Piper sighed. "It was his, not mine. Wyatt protected me during the pregnancy. He still has it as you know."
Chris muttered something under his breath but let his mother still nursed him.
"Alright," Paige said again and finally sat down at the table as well. "Found our little demon. It's a Spider demon who emerges from its hidden lair every one hundred years to feed off the most powerful magical being it can detect." She looked at her sister. "That would explain why she's after you."
"And me," Chris put in and his wound made him sweaty. "What does the Book say about its poison?"
The two women shared a look but Piper made a quick decision. "Leo! Chris is hurt, come quick! Leo!"
Chris jumped angrily. "Why do you call him, Mom? He never bothered before, especially when it came to me!" he shouted and started to pace around.
"That's not true and you know it!" Piper retorted back in the same tone. "Then tell me what had been between you two in these last months? Was that just an illusion?"
There was an awkward silence in the room and the tension grew between the parties. Right at the moment, Leo chose to orb in and saw immediately the wound on his son's neck. Running toward him, the father was stopped – by a hand and a furious glare. From Chris.
Piper noticed her husband. "Oh Leo, you're here. Take care of Chris while I'll speak with Paige about saving our son, okay?" The man nodded and the eldest sister took her baby sister to the side. "Listen, Paige. There is an antidote in there, isn't it?" She nodded. "Prepare it and then go and get Phoebe. We need her! Leo and I watch Chris."
The youngest Charmed One looked at the little family sadly before turning to her task. As she made the potion, she noticed that it needed their blood to work. Paige finished it and let her sister know it what they both did before the younger woman orbed away.
Leo watched his youngest son confused and was eager to know what had gotten into him. "Chris, what the hell is wrong with you? You are not acting like yourself anymore lately! What is going on?" He was desperate and you could hear it in his voice.
His son glared at him but his suppressed hurt over many years broke through. "You care? You never did before! I was never a bother for you! Never!"
Leo looked at his wife confused but could see she was ready to cry. "What do you mean, son? In these last months we had bonded and I thought we were close. You could rely on me anytime!"
Chris' hands became fists and to his parents' shock, their son hit Leo hard in the face. "As if! In my future you ignored me my whole life and you think these last months had made me forget all this years of neglect? Sorry." Again he punched his father in the face and was satisfied.
Piper's hands went to her mouth, totally in shock. She could partly understand her son but his reaction was way too violent for her. "Chris, stop!" she begged but was not heard. "Chris, please. We understand. Let it go." Her wish fell on deaf ears.
Leo thought he hadn't been that kind of a father but obviously he had. He could understand his son's anger and had decided to let Chris do it. He was sure that whatever he'd done, Chris' anger had to come out and to get his steam off. He remained silent while his son punched him in the face. Sometimes hard, sometimes weak.
Piper watched how her son punched his father angrily in the face and cried silently. However, she knew she needed help and called for her sisters.
MEANWHILE IN THE CITY
A young man was looking at his watch nervously. His date was late and he couldn't understand it. I mean she's a little celeb in this town. And then finally he spotted her, speaking with the waiter and then going to him.
"Uh … hi Mike, I'm so sorry, so sorry," Phoebe apologized and quickly sat down. "You know the traffic."
The man looked baffled at her. "Actually it's Mitch and what are you talking about?"
Phoebe smiled brightly. "Mitch, of course, I know that. And I meant the public traffic. Anyway, you know we all wanna settle down and start a family."
"Ookaaayyyyy," Mitch drolled out confused. "But what's my role in it? You know I don't get it."
Phoebe stopped him and just touched his fists, obviously trying to read him. "Oh sorry. You're not the man I thought you were." She quickly stood up. "You'll see I have to hurry to the next one."
Mitch just watched her shocked. "Just for the record: I can't understand you anymore, Phoebe. Why are you so in the hurry?"
The middle sister started to walk away. "You'll find out maybe. Bye Mike." Phoebe was out of nowhere met with her baby sister. "Paige? What are you doing here?" Phoebe grabbed her only and both women went their way.
"It's Mitch," the young man stated but went unheard by the women.
"Paige, what's going on?" Phoebe asked the moment they were out of earshot. "Why are you here, again?"
"We'll need you at home. Chris is infected with a Spider poison and I think, he's slowly turning into one. Yet his anger at his Dad is back. Very long suppressed anger." Paige sighed.
"I take it you worked already on a potion to vanquish the Spider and also an antidote, right?" Phoebe asked to confirm her theory and her little sister nodded. "What is Chris doing to Leo if you maybe know?"
"No sorry, no idea." Suddenly Paige looked up. "Piper's calling. Obviously we're needed at home. You ready? It sounds very urgent!"
Phoebe nodded. "Sure. Let's find an alley to orb back home." Both women walked to the closest one nearby and made their way back to the Manor. If only they knew what they'd find there."
BACK AT THE MANOR
Piper had tried to stop her son but had failed as he wouldn't even listen to her. She was worried to no end, because Leo had been no help. With his eyes he'd begged her to stay quiet and let him do it, no matter what Chris did. The mother had rolled her eyes and had busied herself with the Book where she'd found the recipe for an antidote what she made.
Chris was so furious and, in a way, glad to get his years of neglect out. What confused him though that his father didn't fight back. Silent tears ran over his cheeks as he punched the Elder for his future sins. "You don't know me," he repeated quietly at anytime.
Leo watched his son sadly and heard his mantra with tears in his eyes. He promised himself to listen to his son anytime if he'd ever have problems in the future. And he'd keep his injuries to remind himself of Chris' beating.
Piper then had enough and yelled for her sisters again. Loudly, because her baby reacted as well slowly. It hurt only. "Phoebe, Paige! Now!"
"Coming, coming," came Phoebe's voice into the room even before she and Paige had materialized. "Whoa, is that some anger! Besides, why didn't you call me earlier?"
Paige's eyes, however, were glued on a rather big animal which she knew all too well but the older sisters were busy with Phoebe's blessing for the potion. "Eh … guys, we have a guest, so you should hurry with that!"
Piper and Phoebe followed Paige's look from their spot and the eldest sister agreed immediately at seeing the black spider again. Piper so hated spiders!
The animal turned into its human form and glared at the sisters. "If you kill me, then my little boy turns into a fully one. He'll be lost to you." Her gaze settled onto her original victim. "I can feel your magic and the one of your baby. It's amazing and would feed me for a long time."
"Only over my dead body!" Piper shouted back furiously and was held back by her sisters.
"That can be arranged easily," the woman in black retorted and walked to her slave. "Hi, my boy. I see you already accepted your new powers but help me to catch my victim." She gestured to Piper and played with Chris' chin.
Chris' gaze switched from his father to his mother. Insecure, vulnerable but he shook his head, because Leo had grabbed his head again and focused his gaze only onto him.
Phoebe took the chance and threw their potion to the woman. She was vanquished with a loud shriek and the sisters sighed relieved and their attention went back to the men.
"You don't know me," Chris said now louder and punched his father more and more.
Piper felt her baby kick again and had an epiphany. "Where's the antidote?" Her sisters looked bewildered at her. "Whatever happens to little Chris, will happen to big Chris as well. So if I drink the antidote, Chris will be cured. Either Chris."
Phoebe and Paige only shrugged at these words. "If you say so," the middle sister concluded and handed the vial over.
Piper drank it and surely Chris changed back to his normal self who still punched his Dad. The mother now had enough. "Chris, stop! Please, it's okay. It'll be fine, I promise." She grabbed him and now he listened to her. Piper watched her baby go into another room and orb away.
Meanwhile Phoebe and Paige had helped Leo up who really looked like a punching bag. "Are you okay, Leo?" asked Paige concerned. "You don't look so … well."
The Elder glared at her. "I'll follow Chris. I know where he is, so let me speak with him, please. You don't have to worry about us." Leo was gone in the same way like his son.
Piper spoke to her sisters. "I believe him, yet still I have a bad feeling. A really bad feeling. My poor babies." She was hugged by her sisters lovingly and the three of them remained silent, waiting for Chris and Leo's return.
GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE
As predicted, Leo found his baby boy sitting on the bridge. Crying and hurt. For once, he didn't know how to comfort him but his fatherly instincts guided him somehow. "Chris? Talk to me. What did I do wrong?" he wanted to know very eagerly.
Chris' teary gaze switched to his father's face which was still bloody. "I'm sorry for beating you. I didn't know what has gotten into me. I'm sorry," the son apologized.
"Hey, that's okay. If I were me, I'd hate myself too from what you told me." Leo patted the place beside him on the top beam. "Come here and talk with me. These last months couldn't have been in vain, could they?"
Chris barely nodded and followed his father's request. Immediately he was taken in a soothing embrace. "Dad, how can you be so calm after what I did to you?"
"Well, maybe I needed it. Or your mother would have blown me up if she'd found out first." His son chuckled and Leo smiled happily. "Anyway, and now tell me what did I do wrong while you grew up."
Chris swallowed hard. "You did nothing. Just nothing. For you only Mom, Wyatt and half of the world counted. Just never me." He hiccuped. "I only had Mom and my big brother. And Grandpa, of course."
"Oh." The father looked shocked. "Why did I act this way?"
Chris pointed to the Heavens. "Business before family. Mom was always so mad at you that you ignored me. Especially when Mom died. There was a lot of hate between us."
"But as you'd found out, I helped you to escape from Wyatt's prison, right?" Again a nod. "So I must have regretted my actions some day and decided to help you in saving Wyatt. I mean, you're my son and I love you."
"I love you too, Dad but that's why it had hurt so much while growing up." Chris looked at his father with trusting eyes. "Can we stay here for a bit longer, Dad? I love the view."
"Sure, buddy. I love it here as well." Leo hugged his baby boy lovingly and kissed him on the head. "But if your mother calls …"
"We'll go immediately. I know my mother's temper, because I have the same," Chris offered sarcastically. Then he snorted.
Leo laughed out loud and embraced his son who soon joined his laughter. Father and son enjoyed their time together on the bridge, a place where both men could relax and find their peace. Until a jingle brought them back to reality. Sighing, father and son orbed home.
BACK AT THE MANOR
As they rematerialized, Leo and Chris were shocked to find a crying Piper sitting at the table whereas Phoebe and Paige couldn't seem to help her now. What had happened here?
"Mom?" Chris asked afraid and sat down beside her. "Mom, are you okay? What's going on with you?" His mother hugged him only, still crying. "Umph, it's okay, Mom. It's okay."
"I just fear for you and Wyatt," Piper admitted and Leo sat down on her other side. "I'm just afraid of your future if we fail here."
"Piper," Leo began slowly. "I promise we'll do anything to protect our boys. No matter what I'll have to do and you three will do to prevent this. Gideon won't win!"
Piper wiped her tears away. "Are you sure? You're still an Elder."
"I'll find a way," Leo assured her and his son who gave him a slight shy smile. Phoebe and Paige joined them and the five of them just talked. Leo was glad to have his whole family here, well, except missing Wyatt. Still, they'd find a way to save Wyatt and Chris.
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Post by Tim on Sept 2, 2016 23:33:50 GMT -5
19. Crimes, Cleaners & A Tribunal?SOME TIME LATERAs Paige entered sleepily in the kitchen and went straight to the coffee machine, waking her finally up. Then she watched curiously what her older sister was doing. "Are Leo and Piper not home yet?" she asked. "No but Dad called saying they're on their way home," Phoebe explained and added something to her potion. "Where's Chris?" "Attic. Looking for the next possible demon for us to hunt," the youngest sister replied and gestured to the ceiling. "What are you doing, sis? Nothing bad, I hope." The middle sister had the decency to blush. "Well, I make a potion to spare me eating en masse on a date, you know." All she received was a troubled look. "What? I think I know what I'm doing. As being a witch for so long!" Paige's eyes nearly popped out of her head. "Are you crazy? That's personal gain! Do you want the Cleaners' attention or what? If Piper saw that, you'd be blown to pieces, I can tell ya." Phoebe sighed. "I know. Why is it wrong for me to look for my future husband with my Wicca powers? Tell me what I should do instead?" Paige grinned suddenly. "Then I have the best idea ever! We'll go shopping and look onto the streets for men. Best market ever! I'll help you, sis." Before Phoebe could even protest or say anything, she was tenderly pushed out of the house by her little sister who quickly wrote a note for Piper and Leo. Then they were out and as women, both were easily distracted with shopping and any hot guy who would cross their path. Meanwhile, back at the Manor, the phone began to ring and was soon getting on Chris' nerves. Walking down the stairs, he fast realized he was alone at home and answered it sighing. "Halliwell here. How can we help?" he joked. "Chris, is that you?" came Darryl's voice incredulously. "Anyway, are the sisters home?" "Nope, all out or not home yet," Chris offered, looking around. "But I think Phoebe and Paige have just left recently as there's a note for Mom on the closet. Anyway, why are you calling, Darryl?" "I see but why I called is that I may be followed by demons in human form. Does that help?" Darryl wanted to know. Chris remained silent for a moment. "I have an idea. When do you need me and where?" "Can we meet at the Police Station? Here I'll explain everything to you and then we'll drive there. Besides, I'm sure your sixth sense is better than mine if we remember where you came from." Chris sighed. "Okay, okay, I get it, Darryl. When shall I be there, because I think I'll prepare some things for just in case, you know." "Okay. How about ten minutes? Is that enough time for you? And please, come quick and not seen! With orbing and so," Darryl begged over the phone. "Sure, that's enough. Don't worry, I know some ways to be not seen. Bye Darryl and see you soon!" Chris said smiling and laid the phone back as Darryl had done the same. Quickly he prepared all he needed and then recited a spell to cover his orbs before orbing off. However, the moment he was gone, Piper and Leo with Wyatt entered the Manor. They were confused at seeing nobody of their family home, though they found Paige's note and read it. Piper had to grin at the thought while Leo had closed his eyes and sensed for his son. Relieved to find him in the city what he told Piper. The parents could only wait now until Phoebe, Paige or Chris would return. So, Piper and Leo watched how their older son played while the baby kicked his Mommy and made both Piper and Leo smile. POLICE STATION/ CITYAs Chris entered the office, Darryl looked confused up and at his watch. He hadn't heard anything and so he grabbed the young man and asked, "How did you do that? Anyway, have you prepared all I asked for?" Chris rolled his eyes. "Sure, it's my magic. And yes, I did. So, can we leave?" Darryl only nodded and led the young man to his car. The moment they were in, the Lieutenant began to speak, "You see I have the feeling to be followed, not only by a colleague but also a thief, I think." "Why did you call me then?" Chris wanted to know. "I see a trap and this is one. Call me insane but both of them told me they heard strange noises around them. Like screams, you know." Chris smiled. "So I was right. We're dealing with Phantasm, noisy demons, believe me. And I think you are also right to believe it's a trap. I just wonder which demon had sent them." "I'm sure you'll find out soon if we'd battled those … what kind of demon was that again?" Darryl asked smiling. "I know I'm just a mere mortal and know the sisters for six years but this is kinda weird." "I know." Then the car stopped and both men stepped out. "Oh, nice place. Like in my future, really." Then he closed his eyes sensing. "They are here. Are you ready?" Darryl nodded. "Wait. What are you going to do, Chris?" "For once: Just take my hand, so you won't be frozen," Chris explained and held his hand out which Darryl took. "When all is frozen, you'll stay behind and let me deal with them. It's too dangerous for you." "Okay," Darryl whispered and watched amazed how Chris froze anything around them, except of him. Then the boy threw his potions out and the Phantasm came out, shrieking. Then Chris held out the wands to catch them fully what they did and Chris was just exhausted. "Right, never remind me to do that again," Chris begged smiling and kneeling down. "Are you alright, Darryl?" "I think he's just shocked to see us," a voice said and Chris turned to them. Men in white, the Cleaners. "What were you thinking, Chris?" "Oh, hi Cleaners," Chris said greeting them. "I was wondering when you'd show up. Can't you see this is a trap?" "You do know that we just monitor about the exposure of magic what you did once again, young man. Now you're going in front of the Tribunal," the Cleaner said calmly. "Great, just great," Chris replied sarcastically. "But can at least Darryl say my family where I am? My Mom is always so worried, you know." "Sure," the Cleaners agreed and waved at the shocked Lieutenant who immediately ran away. "You'll come with us now, Chris. The Tribunal is now your judge and we'll see what follows." "Go ahead," Chris said only as the Cleaners took him. He let it happen, because he knew what would come and he was at fault. At least, his family was safe. For now. BACK AT THE MANORMeanwhile, the eldest sister and her husband had been joined by Phoebe and Paige again who had told them all about what they had done over the day. The middle sister especially about the men they'd seen. Piper could see how excited her younger sister was. Leo, however, was worried about Chris. He could see that Wyatt felt the same. "Piper, I can't sense Chris anymore. I don't know what's wrong," he offered afraid. "What?" the mother demanded, afraid as well. "Where is he, what's going on? Leo, sense him!" As the doorbell rang, she shouted at her sisters. "Phoebe, Paige! Go and find out who's there!" The tone in their sister's voice made the younger sisters jump up and quickly open the door. Stunned they looked at each other. "Darryl? Why are you here?" Phoebe asked bewildered. "The Cleaners took Chris and from what I could understand, they said he was going in front of a Tribunal," Darryl explained out of breath. "Can I come in, please?" "Sure," Paige agreed and both women opened the door more to let their friend in. "Piper and Leo will be furious if they find this out. I mean they're worried already." "Hey Leo, Piper," Darryl greeted the parents and ruffled Wyatt's hair with a sad smile. "I'm sorry to be the bearer of bad news but the Cleaners have Chris and they'll bring him to the Tribunal. Does that ring any bell?" "Oh my God!" Leo said standing up and angry. "Tell me as quick as you can what has happened, because we'll have to hurry then. Chris is in trouble. More trouble than you can imagine." Darryl did as told and quickly recapped what had happened in the city. The three Charmed Ones and Leo listened intensely to the story. In a way it was good that the Charmed Ones weren't involved but all feared for Chris. At least, Darryl didn't ask about what they had done in that time. "Leo, what is the Tribunal?" Phoebe asked curiously. "Why did we never hear of it before? I mean you're an Elder." "Yeah, I know. Though you can know that the Cleaners rapport directly to the Tribunal who consists of two Elders and Demons. They monitor all magic," Leo explained. Sudden orbs distracted the whole family and their friend. All looked up to see another Elder standing in their midst. "Leo, Charmed Ones, you are demanded to follow me to the Tribunal. You are needed there, because your son is causing havoc there." "Odin," Leo spoke for all of them. "Whatever Chris is doing, he must have his reason to act this way." "If you say so," Odin only said. "But I was sent by the Elders, so it's better you do as asked. The Tribunal doesn't like to wait." He saluted a bit. "See you soon." He orbed away. Darryl looked at his friends, knowing what would come now. "I take it you'll say it's better that I'll leave now before I might end up in the middle too." He looked at the little blond. "Should I take Wyatt for you?" "No, thanks. I'm sure Wyatt wants to be with his brother now. They haven't seen each other for some time, you know," Piper said thankfully. "You are right, though. Thanks for everything." "Good luck," Darryl wished them at least. He left the house with an uneasy feeling but hoped still for the best. For anyone, especially Chris. Leo linked hands with Piper and told his sister-in-law, "Paige, follow my lead in orbing. You'll need it." The youngest sister nodded and linked hands with Phoebe. The four of them, with Wyatt, orbed out, leaving the Manor empty. ANYWHERE/NOWHERE – THE TRIBUNALAs the family orbed in, they were greeted with yelling. Irritated all looked at the sources who were arguing heatedly and to their surprise, it was Chris and one of four floating heads. Wyatt immediately orbed to his brother, hoping to calm him down what worked. Then the three sisters and Leo saw in the center stand Gideon, looking angry and furious. "What's going on?" Piper whispered to Leo. "With whom is Chris obviously arguing about Gideon?" Leo answered back in the same tone, "He's arguing with the Elder members of the Tribunal. There are two Elders and two Demons in there but what's with Gideon, no idea." The Elder shrugged and watched curiously at his son and old mentor. Phoebe and Paige watched fascinated at this place but remained silent – for the time being. All hoped Chris would get free from this little encounter. Chris protested loudly and spoke, "I just don't want Gideon as my lawyer!!" He stroked over Wyatt's hair and smiled at his brother and family. "I refuse to accept him, clear?" "Chris Halliwell, why do you refuse if you don't mind our question?" Aramis wanted to know. "Gideon has got a lot of experience in that field. Why don't you trust him?" Adair, Crill and Thrask nodded to agree. In a way, they knew what was going on in the magical world but they'd find out how the future man defended himself. Obviously he'd heard of them already. Chris smirked suddenly. "Why don't we put Gideon on the Circle of Truth and see what he's planned for Wyatt and possibly me in the near future? I know for sure he fears us. We're too powerful for him." Gideon cut in afraid. "I really need to go back to Magic School!! The school doesn't work without me, you know." "Why all of a sudden?" Adair asked with a raised eyebrow. The four heads exchanged some looks but then. "Okay, you can go, Gideon but be aware that we monitor you still." Gideon bowed his head slightly and orbed away, not so happy about this threat. He had to be even more careful if the Tribunal was onto him now as well. Gideon definitely needed more help. As this was over, Chris' opposite flamed in. It revealed a known demon for the Halliwells: Barbas. "Oh. I'm not too early, am I?" the demon smirked. "Anyway, who is this young man? I'd expected the Charmed Ones to be judged since I knew them longer and not some mere stranger." His outburst was ignored, because the Tribunal turned his attention back to Barbas' opposite. "So, young friend, who do you want as your lawyer? Barbas will argue for the opposite site." "I take it to get free out of hell, right?" Chris asked sarcastically, knowing full how his opposite ticked. But he would never let Barbas taste his fears, never, that he vowed. Barbas snorted with rage at this sentence. It was as if the boy knew him too well or long enough. "We'll see if you're right, boy," the demon teased and sat down. "We'll see, we'll see." "Anyway, back to the question: I want Cole Turner as my lawyer if you don't mind," Chris offered very seriously. "I know that he's stuck in the void right now but it'd be only for this case." In their corner, the Charmed Ones and Leo talked heatedly among each other after this revelation. In a way, especially Phoebe, was against this idea but the others outvoted her quickly. They were mere spectators here and should remain quiet. This was Chris' fight. "Your wish is granted," Aramis offered and nodded barely, to let Cole Turner appear. "Mr Turner, you are here to help Mr Halliwell who has exposed magic to the public. You'll defend him." Cole looked, for a moment, shocked around, then at his 'new' client and the boy's family. At the end, he also turned to their opposite … and agreed. "I'll do as asked. I realize that I'm only here to defend Mr Halliwell." "Could we start, please?" Barbas cut in impatiently. "You know that time's money. Anyway, so young Chris has exposed magic. Haven't you learned from the Charmed Ones so far?" Chris smirked and let Cole know he took over. "I do have, Barbas. You see, in the future it doesn't matter anymore if magic exists or not and Darryl and I were in an area where no one would have seen us. I'd made sure of it since I can sense anyone." "Oh. And let me guess. You know of that because you're from the future," Barbas said rather casually and saw satisfied how Chris paled. "So I take it the future doesn't look so well in your time." Chris sat down, so Cole spoke now. "It doesn't matter if he's from the future. What matters only is the question if he's exposed magic now." He turned to the Tribunal. "Would it be allowed to call Lieutenant Morris here? He's our main witness in that case." "I'm against it," Barbas immediately protested loudly. "The Lieutenant is only a mortal who shouldn't get more involved as he already is! Our world is simple: Black and white, good and evil." Cole, however, smiled now. "Why do you insist so much on leaving Darryl out of this trial? What are you hiding, Barbas?" "I don't have to answer you, halfbreed," Barbas spat out and hit the table hard. Chris watched this exchange curiously but his gaze was on Barbas. Then it clicked. "Of course. Why did I forget this fact?" He felt at himself for the wands where he'd captured the Phantasm in. "Here I captured two Phantasm who had wanted to trap Darryl but I stepped in. We were both right. It was a trap." "Are you saying I'm at fault here?" Barbas asked and turned away. "I don't know what you're talking about. I didn't do anything wrong." Cole and Chris smirked at each other while Wyatt clapped his hands happily together. Cole spoke for his client, "I take it you just admitted that you're guilty, Barbas. You sent the Phantasm out to maybe trap the Charmed Ones but your plan failed as Chris came instead of the three witches. Admit only you've lost." The Demon of Fear sighed. "Okay, fine. It's true but what'd you expect? I'm a demon." "See, he's guilty and now punish him," Cole begged but his wish fell on deaf ears. "Hello? Isn't that your work here?" Barbas continued, "Anyway, I still think the Charmed Ones and their future offspring could cause us many problems not even now but also in the future. Little Chris is a proof for that fact." "Well, dear Barbas," Cole countered heatedly. "It's not that the Charmed Ones we are judging, it's Chris. So your tactic won't work here. Anything what could have happened had been prevented, so back off." "I see you still love her, Cole Turner." "My love for Phoebe doesn't matter here. Leave the Halliwells alone for God's sake, you're their lifetime nuisance!" "STOP!" Crill shouted annoyed. "You're worse than children! Mr Turner, I think your work is done here, so you can go back to your void." Cole looked shocked around and felt a calming hand on his. The demon smiled. "I don't think that this case is already closed! You don't want to punish Barbas, do you? What is going--" Thrask waved his hand only and Cole Turner vanished mid-sentence. All Halliwells looked irritated at the demon. "It's better for all of you," the demon assured for the family. "Anyway, what are we doing is not your concern. We don't have to answer you." Chris shrugged. "So that means I'm free now, right?" The four heads of the Tribunal nodded. "Then it's okay if we as a family go home now?" Again a nod. "Fine. We'll discuss the rest at home." He orbed his brother and gave his family a signal to follow him. The two Elders and Demons of the Tribunal looked at each other. They didn't know how to react as they mostly saw each other when something was wrong. "Well, that was interesting," Adair said at his two demonic colleagues. "Yet Aramis and I need to leave now. We'll need to look after Gideon and his actions toward the Halliwells." The Elders left the room. "Eh…guys," Barbas put in and made the other two demons look at him. "What's with this Chris? Is he related to the Halliwells and where is he from?" Crill looked at the Demon of Fear. "Chris is from the future and here to save Wyatt, his brother, from turning evil. He's the baby Piper's pregnant with at the moment." Thrask nugded him. "Okay, we're going. Besides, there's an invisible guest here." The two Demons left. Barbas looked around nervously. "Okay, who's there? I'm not happy but I can feel fear. What are you afraid of, … Elder?" Gideon revealed himself. "Good guess, demon. I'd ask you for meeting me with a companion in the underworld in two days if you are eager to taste the fears of Chris Halliwell." "Sure, you're making me though. What's your plan, man?" "In time, my friend. In time." The Elder returned to where he came from. He seemed satisfied with this goal and the more joined the group, the better would they achieve their goal. Barbas walked, or better danced, around like a little child at his victory. "Yes, I'm back. What a wonderful idea I had, to use the useless Phantasm to get me free." He smirked. "And now let's find out what's changed in the underworld meanwhile." He flamed out. The Tribunal room was now empty and silence ruled. BACK AT THE MANORAs the family rematerialized, all sat down relieved. Piper took a seat immediately next to her sons and fussed over her baby. However, the baby inside her kicked and kicked and only Wyatt's hand seemed to calm him down. "Mom, would you stop! I'm fine," Chris protested after some time. "I always know what I'm doing." "Yeah, I saw that," Piper retorted back sarcastically. "What were you thinking by using your magic in public? Didn't I teach you anything while growing up?" Chris rolled his eyes. That was so his mother. She'd never change. "Yes, you did. And the area was empty, I sensed it before. I trusted Darryl's and mine judgment." "But what about Barbas and his role in this 'play' if you wanna call it that way?" Phoebe asked curiously. She still couldn't believe that Cole had briefly returned, to defend her nephew. The middle sister snorted. Leo put wisely in. "I think Barbas had made a deal with the demonic members of the Tribunal and he'd used the Phantasm to create a case for them. Maybe for the Charmed Ones originally." "Good point, Dad," Chris agreed nodding. "And I think you're right. Yet as I stepped in, Barbas was certainly confused. Anyway, we should be more concerned now that he's back." "True," Paige said. "But why did you want Cole as your lawyer?" All looked at her. "What? I'm curious but we understand why you refused Gideon, honey." "Fine. I just wanted an expert and Cole was the only one I know of. Gideon wouldn't be the one and besides, I didn't want that any of you has lost their powers. We need you 'complete'," Chris quoted and all his family had to agree. Wyatt was falling asleep in Chris' lap and Chris was also yawning. The boy was exhausted after this battle. Piper saw this and smiled and guided her boys to the nursery where she put her eldest into his crib and led her youngest to the couch close by. The mother kissed her boys on their heads before walking back to the family. "Hey," Leo greeted his wife, kissing her. "Are they sleeping? Are you okay, Piper?" "I'm fine. Don't worry so much," the woman stated annoyed but then became serious. "I think Chris is right with Barbas. If he gets Chris and tastes his fear, I'll fear for the worst. After everything he'd been through." She sobbed quietly. "Shsh, that won't happen," Leo promised, kissing her again. "If he should, we'll vanquish him. For good. Promise." The younger sisters did the same and supported their older sister with rubbing her back and speaking soothing words to her. Paige and Phoebe knew what would come if Barbas would get Chris but who could help them then? Leo looked at all sisters and could see how tired they were too. "We should go sleeping," he suggested. "Tomorrow is another day." Phoebe and Paige said good night to their sister and brother-in-law and fell nearly onto their beds. The parents checked on their children once more before going to bed as well. Piper and Leo held each other closely, hoping for the best – for their sons and all of them. UNDERWORLD MEETING – TWO DAYS LATERBarbas flamed into a weird cave and met the Elder, Gideon, again. Next to him stood another demon who he should know somehow. "Hello, here I am. What I'm needed for?" Gideon gestured to his companion. "This is Zankou, from the future and he knows a lot about young Chris. We agreed to let you taste his fears." "You should know," Zankou put in. "Chris had been the only one who'd seen his mother's death. Leo and Wyatt had come in later and I'm sure Wyatt had tortured his little brother once in the future. So you'd find a lot of fears in the boy." Barbas raised an eyebrow. "Really? In the future one brother fights against the other?!" Zankou nodded. "Wow. That's a new side of the Halliwells and especially of the Twice-Blessed, the most powerful being on Earth. Means that power corrupts totally." "Absolutely," Zankou agreed. "I've secured my past self well and now I work against my original plan. But more later. If you survive." "What do you mean?" the Demon of Fear requested. "I know my Master," came the simple answer. "Alright, you two," Gideon cut in and laid his hands on both men's shoulder. "We've established our wishes for the Halliwells but, in general, I want to get rid of Wyatt and maybe Chris too. If need be, I could rely on you, right?" Barbas and Zankou looked at each other and then nodded. This odd trio was not only weird for the underworld but also in the magical world. If they knew of it. Yet all of it was done secretly and whatever they had planned, it certainly wasn't anything good.
A/N: The not only return of Cole Turner.
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Post by Tim on Sept 2, 2016 23:34:48 GMT -5
20. World In Change
MANOR, ATTIC
"Chris, you can't go! This is insane. Anyone is after you," Piper argued with her youngest son. His baby self seemed to agree with her, along with her husband. "Chris, please. You can't."
"Mom, if Zankou and Gideon had spoken with Barbas now too, I'll see a lot of trouble ahead. I'll need to contact Phinks who knows all rumors in the underworld," Chris pointed out. He knew how to work on his mother but he needed to do this.
"Chris," Leo cut in. "We do understand what's at stake here but if you go and Barbas gets you, what will happen to you? Your fears for the future are still there and we both can see how this troubles you."
"Dad, you can't forbid me to go! I'm a grown man and have been on my own since I was 14. And you, Daddy dearest, haven't been a part of it!"
Leo looked down ashamed. "I know," he whispered but then again. "I thought we'd talked about this and all was cleared? What's wrong with you, son?"
"There isn't anything wrong with me, Dad!" Chris yelled at the Elder. "I'm trying to save your precious son, the Twice-Blessed!"
"Chris, please listen to reason," Piper broke in crying. "Don't do this! It's way too dangerous for you down there. If those three are together, I'm worried about you, peanut!" She cried now openly.
The son was about to obey but refused. "No, I made up my mind and I'm going! End of discussion!" He orbed out, leaving two shocked parents behind.
Piper clung to Leo for dear life and cried. "God, what if something happens to him? I wouldn't know what to do if it does." She looked up at her husband. "Leo, what do we do?"
Leo kissed his wife on her head. "At first, call your sisters back. We're going to need their help, that's for sure. And Wyatt!" An orb came and formed into their eldest. "Oh, you heard me." He kissed his boy. "Are you okay, Piper?"
"I will be." Piper wiped her tears away. "When Chris is back. How long do we wait?"
"A day to three. A week to the latest," Leo promised. "He needs to calm down himself and let some steam off."
Piper accepted nodding. Reluctantly she walked out of the attic to call her sisters for help. Piper knew it was hard to let go but she had to. Her baby was a grown man and had taken after her in so many ways. If need be, she'd summon Prue again for help or any other person.
UNDERWORLD – MINUTES LATER
Chris had found Phinks rather quickly and now had the demon in a vice like grip. "Tell me, Phinks," Chris threatened furiously. "What's going on here? Any new rumors?"
Phinks quickly shook his head. "No, you've heard wrong. There isn't anything anew. The information you have is totally wrong. Sorry."
"You're lying! There has to be something and I know you're a good spy," the whitelighter said angrily, grabbing the demon harshly. "Spill, because you're a good friend of Barbas!"
"Me? That's wrong," Phinks countered, shaking his head again. "I work for neither side. Only for me … and you, maybe. So, you're wrong."
"So, you're saying you only work for yourself? Ha, that's a laugh. Phinks, you're a good minion for anyone. Share your knowledge with me!" Chris' temper rose and his powers reacted to that.
"Careful, Chrissie," came a familiar voice suddenly to them. "You don't want to kill your little friend, do you? He could be useful for you still. In the future."
A bit shocked the young whitelighter turned around and let his target go. "Zankou?" he requested incredulously. "What are you doing here? Not plotting with Gideon now?"
"Who says it's me," came the voice again. Unnoticed, Phinks had been replaced by Barbas. "I take it you don't know me so well, boy, do you? You feel so new and fresh."
Chris' eyes widened in fear as the realization who he was talking to came. He tried to orb away but couldn't. He was paralyzed before being knocked out. Hard. The young man was unconscious.
Barbas smiled. He'd gotten the young Halliwell alone and would frighten the boy to no end. The Demon of Fear could already read many fears and would test them all out. Quickly Barbas shimmered with the boy away, leaving an empty cave behind. There were no traces to find.
MANOR, ONE WEEK LATER
Piper paced around the attic nervously. She was worried about Chris, because they couldn't find him anywhere. Leo had been in the underworld already, to question and threaten demons but they'd been afraid of something. Now the Elder was 'Up There' to ask his colleagues for help. Wyatt's quietly whimper was not helping either.
"Piper, are you okay?" Phoebe asked concerned and looked at her older sister. "Where's Leo, by the way?"
The worried mother indicated to the ceiling. "I don't know why he hasn't come back yet." She looked at her younger sisters. "Any success on your side yet?"
The middle sister shook her head and so did Paige. "We can't find him. Wherever he is, there must be charms around. We'll need definitely help!"
Piper had taken a seat meanwhile and was going over her large belly smiling sadly. Looking at the playpen and her still whining eldest son, however, the mother was given an idea and quickly began to write.
Phoebe looked at Paige for help but the youngest woman could only shrug. "Piper, what are you writing down? A spell?" No answer. "Piper?"
Unnoticed by the women, Leo orbed in. "They don't know anything! Though they confirm our suspicions about Gideon but he's even hiding from them. No one can't find him. Neither the Elders nor the demons I've asked." He looked around and stopped at his wife. "Piper, what's going on?"
"I'll call onto help to find our baby boy. If anything else has failed, I'll let magic work its way," the eldest sister said somehow happily, waving her finished spell at them.
"Piper, that's crazy," Phoebe argued. "You know how our spells have a tendency to backfire. Especially yours." Her sister gave her a look. "Okay, not all of them but the most."
Piper stood up angrily, hands on her hips. "This is Chris we're talking about. The boy who's here to save his family! Us!"
Leo quickly embraced his wife. "Piper, calm down! It's not good for the baby. Either version." He gave his sisters-in-law a look which they read right. Then he turned back to his wife. "Piper, what's your plan?"
"Didn't you hear me? I'll let magic help us. However it works. We'll need help! That's clear."
The two sisters and Leo looked at each other before nodding. They knew when they had lost, because if Piper had set up her mind, there was no way changing it. All sighed.
"See." Piper chuckled triumphantly. "And now back to my spell. However it works." She cleared her throat and recited her spell: My baby is gone and lost Help this mother without cost. Bring his best friend to the past To save my baby at least.
All four looked around nervously for any reaction. There was nothing … until a white light formed, making Piper smile.
MEANWHILE IN THE FUTURE
In 2026, for some time Wyatt was working on some stats. The elder son of Piper Halliwell and Leo Wyatt looked different than the last time we'd seen him. His long blond hair was tied to a plait and his blue eyes were softer than before. But then he shivered out of nowhere.
"Wyatt?" Leo asked perplexed. "What's wrong? What are you feeling?"
The young man turned to his Dad. "I don't know." He embraced himself. "I just don't know." He shivered again and then looked his Dad straight in the eyes. "What if it's Chris?"
Leo's concern grew and the father knew how strong his sons' bond was. "I think you're right. You two have a strong bond and it may work also across time."
Wyatt barely nodded and shivered time and again. Then he felt the familiar sensation of being summoned. Weird enough that it was his Mom. "Dad? Mom's calling me. What do I do?"
Leo could, indeed, see white lights engulfing his son. He gasped. "You are right. It's Piper's magic but whatever you're needed for, it must be important, so remain calm when you arrive."
Wyatt rolled his eyes. "Very funny," the son said sarcastically but then. "You not coming?"
Leo shook his head smiling sadly. "No, I trust you with this. You love your brother, no matter what. I trust you."
"Thanks Dad," said the boy who had then vanished from view.
Leo smiled only but feared for the worst. He was a father after all.
BACK IN THE PAST
As Wyatt reformed, he was shocked to see his Mom again. Though earlier he'd seen her but now? He had changed and so had they. Meanwhile his Mom was pregnant again and Leo, Phoebe and Paige just looked exhausted. After some time he found his voice again, "Why did you summon me?" Piper smiled sadly at her eldest boy. "We've lost your baby brother. That means we can't find him since one week." She started to sob quietly. "I called for your help or Chris' best friend. You."
Wyatt paled at those words and turned to his aunts. "Any success yet with scrying or summoning?" His aunts shook their heads. "Damn. Tell me what has happened recently. In every detail."
"Language!" Piper scolded but looked at her husband who rubbed his temples. "Leo, what's wrong? You feel anything?"
"I don't know," the Elder admitted. "It can't be the Elders. I just come from them but who'd be calling me? It's definitely not Gideon."
"Could anyone tell me where my brother is?" the Twice-Blessed yelled suddenly, startling anyone.
"Well," Phoebe began nervously. "Lately Barbas has returned and we know that Chris wanted to contact someone in the underworld. After some hours Leo lost him on his radar."
"Wait," Wyatt cut in. "The Demon of Fear is back?" All nodded. Instantly Wyatt paled even more. "If he has him, fear for the worst! His powers can go out of control or he's lost in himself. Chris has many fears."
"We know," Paige said and looked at her older nephew. "You look different. Has Chris already changed anything in the future?"
"Let's say it's in progress." Wyatt shivered again and looked at his younger self who whined still. Meaning he felt the same. "What's with Zankou, by the way?"
"We think he's working with Gideon and both could be the ones who want to turn you. Or he helps him as Zankou knows you well enough," Leo explained.
"I see." There was a pause. "I should go now. Chris is more important." He started to orb away but said to his Dad, "I think you've been called by Chris this entire time. On instinct." His leaving orbs still offered, "He needs you, Dad."
Leo looked shocked after his son. Looking straight at the man's younger self, the father concentrated on his headache and could, indeed, hear his younger son's voice. "He's right," he announced all of a sudden. "I can hear Chris."
"Can you sense him now?" Piper asked afraid. This was all too much for her. Her baby was in great danger and if Barbas really had him, he'd pay. At any cost.
"No," Leo admitted. "But I believe our sons share a strong bond. So Wyatt has more and greater chances to find him." He kissed his wife on the head. "They are brothers. For now you should focus on little Wyatt, because he needs his Mommy too."
Piper nodded and did as told. Grabbing her older baby, the mother walked out of the attic and into her bedroom. Lying down, with Wyatt beside her, the eldest sister hoped for the best.
Leo and the other two sisters stayed in the attic, sitting down or pacing around. All three were damned to sit or remain at the side. A feeling they didn't like.
UNDERWORLD, A BIT LATER
A loud scream echoed through the long caves. The demon couldn't breath suddenly and looked at his attacker afraid. "Really, I don't know anything," the demon blurred out, choking. "You have the wrong demon!"
"Not the answer I wanted!" Wyatt Matthew Halliwell threatened, not happy about this turn of events. "You'll tell me what you know or I may kill you … not. Your choice."
"Well, there might be something," the demon began nervously but his attacker seemed to have problems to concentrate. "You know Barbas and future Zankou met, along with an Elder. But that's just rumor!"
"Right. And?" Wyatt shook his head, to clear it. He felt … off and that only meant he had to hurry. "What else!" he yelled at the demon.
The demon sweated afraid. "Phinks told me that Barbas had tricked the Charmed Ones' whitelighter with his fears. What he's done in between, no one knows. Hehe but I think you do."
Wyatt had enough then and with a flick of his wrist the demon was vanquished. "Sorry," he said to the pile of ash. "Not helpful for me." The elder son took a deep breath and focused now on their bond.
As he'd found it, Wyatt immediately orbed to the cave where he'd sensed his baby brother. Yet the moment he orbed in, his orbs were hit with a bat. Falling out of his orbs, Wyatt looked irritated up but just received another blow. The older boy fell unconscious to the floor.
Barbas smiled over his victims. The younger boy was already lost in his fears but now it was time to play on Zankou's Master. It was going to be fun.
When Wyatt came around, he groaned and looked confused around. Soft cries could be heard in the distance and Wyatt had a sense of déjà vu as he walked toward the cries.
"Chris, are you there? Can you hear me?" he asked softly and swallowed hard, walking further into the dark. "Chris?"
"Wyatt?" came a childish voice from the distance. "I'm afraid. So much. Mom's gone and I feel so alone."
"You're not alone. You have me and Dad." Wyatt swallowed hard. "And I'm sorry about Bianca. Really sorry. I didn't mean to."
There was silence. Long and unmerciful. "If I believe you, what will you do to me?"
"Nothing. I swear." Again Wyatt swallowed hard. "Only to bring you home. Mom and Dad are worried." Then he could finally see his little brother. "Chris!"
"Wy?" Like he did as a child, Chris hugged his big brother for dear life. "Don't leave me, please."
"Never," Wyatt promised, kissing his brother's head. "And now follow me out of here. We all need you in one piece."
Chris smiled shyly and followed Wyatt's lead out of their fears.
When Wyatt was back in the living world, he noticed his brother was still lying there but breathing and back to normal. Then he heard clapping hands. "What the …?" he started shocked.
"Wow, you're really good. Zankou was right," Barbas replied smirking. "By the way, how are you two related to each other?"
"Not your damn business!" Wyatt said angrily, standing up and sending the demon with his telekinesis to the wall harshly by surprise. Wyatt smirked now. "I take it you didn't expect this, Barbas."
"Obviously," Barbas admitted while dusting himself off the debris. "I see you two share the same power. How come?" Unnoticed, hopefully, a darklighter appeared, ready to strike if wanted.
"Again not your business!" the Twice-Blessed threatened and stepped toward the demon. "Do anything stupid and you'll be dust yourself!"
Barbas paced around the young man. "Fine, do as you like but still your best friend will be lost to you. No matter what you do to me." He whispered into Wyatt's ear. "You know that fear never dies."
"What do you mean that Chris will be lost to me?" Wyatt asked confused and waited for Barbas' answer eagerly. "Tell me!"
"Ask your family." With a casual gesture, Barbas let the darklighter attack the still lying younger boy. An arrow flew through the air but Wyatt was too slow to react. "See, now you'll have to decide. Save him or kill me."
"Chris!" Wyatt yelled afraid but his fury grew. Blinded by anger, he let his fury loose and blasted the demon with energy. Along with darklighter. Crying he ran to his little brother, trying to heal him. "Chris, can you hear me? Answer me, please."
For a long time there was no reaction before the younger boy barely opened his eyes. "Wy? I feel so cold and tired. So cold."
Wyatt pulled his younger brother into his arms, kissing him on his head. Crying. "I'll orb us home so that Dad can heal you. You'll need to rest then." Silence. "Chris?"
Again silence and Wyatt immediately orbed home, fearing for the worst and in need of answers. Wyatt hoped his brother would survive.
BACK AT THE MANOR
The three sisters and Leo waited anxiously for their sons and nephews to return back home. Piper's hand moved over her belly time and again while Leo closed his eyes as well. Phoebe and Paige just felt helpless. As orbs flittered through the ceiling, all immediately stood up and … gasped.
"Wyatt, what happened?" Piper asked concerned and was about to pull the arrow out but was stopped by a hand. "What?" She looked up. "Leo?"
"You're pregnant," the father only said and knelt down beside her, ready to heal. "Phoebe, would you? You're the only one now."
The middle sister swallowed hard and did as told. "Chris, you'll be fine," she said sadly. "And it'll only hurt a bit, I promise." Phoebe took a swing and pulled the arrow out. "Chris?"
Wyatt cried silently and started to heal, along with their father, as soon as the arrow out. "C'mon, Chris, don't you dare to leave me alone! I just can't. I've lost too many people already. Please Chris."
For ten long minutes nothing happened. Only the constant healing glow was there and the younger Charmed Ones had walked over to support their older sister who could only cry. Leo and Wyatt shared a look but said nothing.
Another orb formed beside the older Wyatt. "Iss," the childish voice said and added his healing power to the already bright glow. "Iss!"
Coughing … and moaning. Green eyes opened up sluggishly. "Wow, I must be dreaming if my whole family is around me," came Chris' quietly voice and the boy could only stare at his big brother. Older version.
"Iss," came little Wyatt's voice now who wanted to hug his best friend and brother.
Piper hugged her baby only whispered into his ear, "Just don't scare me like that again! I don't want to lose you so young." She hiccuped. "Just like your Aunt Prue."
Chris touched his mother softly and shared a brief look with his father. Which didn't go unnoticed by Wyatt. "Mom, I promise. I'll be careful. Always." He chuckled slightly. "Besides, which child doesn't scare their parents once in a while."
Leo just ruffled his son's hair smiling and his aunts hugged him briefly before leaving the attic. Phoebe and Paige had decided to prepare the meal which had earned them raised eyebrows. Except Wyatt, maybe.
Speaking of him, blue eyes searched for the green ones of his brother, silently reading him. But then again, "If you don't mind, Chris and I need to talk alone. Somewhere. In private. You know any places?"
"The Bridge?" Chris suggested smirking but knew the answer already.
"No, you two can stay here," Piper countered, standing up – with the help of Leo who had taken little Wyatt . "You know I can't let your aunts ruin my kitchen. No matter how much they want to help me."
Chris and Wyatt looked at each other, knowing this to be true. Fascinated the brothers watched how their parents with baby Wyatt left the room before they stared at each other.
BROTHER TO BROTHER
"Mom's right, you know," Wyatt started and moved closer to his little brother. "You scared me to death too. I don't want to lose you."
Chris was amazed at those words. They seemed to be honest. "How did you come here? What's going on? You seem different. In a good way."
Wyatt smiled, despite the situation. "Well, Mom summoned me, because you were lost for one week. As for the rest: I think your being here is taking effect onto the future." Now he looked directly into his brother's eyes. "What are you and Dad hiding? I know you do."
Chris looked away. "There's no need to burden you with that. You should be back in our time when the change comes. There are just things you don't need to know."
Wyatt grabbed Chris' face between his palms. "You are my little brother and I care about you but for once: I'll listen to you." He let go. "Does Mom know about her death? And some other future things?"
Chris smiled but searched for the nearness of his big brother who let him do it. "Mom does, along with Great-Grams, Dad and Grandpa. But the other things remained with me. If one knew, I'd know. Don't worry so much."
Wyatt poked his little brother playfully into the arm. "Hey, what did I just say? Anyway, you hungry now? You were gone for a week!"
Chris rolled his eyes but one question bothered him still. "How long are you staying? Not that I like you here but you know my reasons for you to leave."
"I know. I'll leave tomorrow if you want to. Mom's spell brought me here, so maybe she has to write one more to send me back." Wyatt twinkled his eyes.
Chris chuckled softly and made himself more comfortable in Wyatt's lap. "Might be true but I don't want you to go. You are the brother I'm looking for and I don't want that dream to end." His words were becoming quieter with time and in the end he fell asleep.
Wyatt smiled at the sight and brought his baby brother to the couch, stroking through the boy's hair and kissing him. "I love you, Chris and the way I feel now I want you to succeed. You will always be my best friend." Walking away, he saved this image for good in his mind. "I'm going to save you something from Mom's meal."
KITCHEN
Hearing footsteps on the stairs, the Charmed Ones and Leo's gaze went to the entrance where Wyatt stood dreaming. "Where's Chris?" Piper wanted to know, not seeing her baby and asking herself what her older son was thinking. "Wyatt, you need anything?"
"Well," the son started. "Chris is sleeping upstairs." Immediately little Wyatt orbed to his brother, to protect him. "Anyway, what I may need is a spell from you again, Mom. To return to my time."
"Okay," the mother drawled out. "You hungry?" He nodded. "Take a seat and eat. I'll save the rest for Chris." She looked at her older baby. "Between you two is all cleared, isn't it? I need some good news. And you three sit down and eat as well."
The younger sisters and their brother-in-law shared a look but did as told. The three of them tried not to stare at the Twice-Blessed but he did notice and said nothing. Piper was writing her spell and just watched them from aside.
"Okay, enough," Wyatt said suddenly. "Is there anything in my face or why are you staring at me? I'd like to eat on my own, thank you very much."
Phoebe whispered something into Paige's ear, making the younger woman giggle and Piper and Leo raise an eyebrow. "It's nothing bad, really," the middle sister said relaxing. "It's just that they both seem sarcastic."
"That's a fact," came another sleepily voice in. Chris was yawning and so did little Wyatt in his one arm. "Why didn't anyone invite me?"
"You were sleeping so nice and I wouldn't disturb you, because you'd needed it," Wyatt explained calmly. "And now sit and eat before I might return back to our time."
Chris just nodded and took his usual place next to Wyatt and began to eat his Mom's meal. He relished in it since it had been so long since he'd eaten his Mom's selfmade meals. The younger man just smiled happily at everyone while his little big brother shared the meal with his brother. Just look at their clothes.
"Okay, my spell is ready," Piper announced proudly. "We can go to the attic again and send Wyatt home."
"Piper, you should eat first. The baby needs his food," Leo demanded firmly and his youngest son blushed. "That's a medical order!" His wife sulked but obeyed and sat down eating.
Half an hour later, the family was finally ready to go upstairs again. The moment they entered the attic, Wyatt began to say goodbye to his loved ones. Hard was it especially when it came to his Mom.
"Mom, I love you so much," Wyatt said, hugging her long and lovingly. Over her shoulder he looked at his baby brother. "If I could, I'd have prevented a lot, you know."
"It's okay, baby," Piper said in the same tone. "Now that everything changes, in the end all will be fine. For both of you." She kissed him on the cheek. "And now say goodbye to your little brother."
Wyatt kissed her nose and walked over to his baby brother. Looking at him, he just hugged him then tightly and whispered into Chris' ear, "I know you will succeed. I'm proud of you and so is Dad." He touched the boy's cheek. "I just don't want to lose you too."
"I'll be careful, Wy." Chris hugged his older brother just as tightly. "And now go home and say hi to Dad from me. I love you, Wy."
"Love you too, Chrissie." Wyatt swallowed hard and turned then to their mother. "Mom, I'm ready."
Piper nodded and grabbed Chris' hand, to give him hope and saw that Leo did the same on Chris' other side. Smiling, she cleared her throat and recited her spell, He has been in the past Now he's done his task. Send Wyatt back to the place From whence he came.
Everyone watched as Wyatt vanished in white lights, waving goodbye at his family. Before he was gone for good, the brothers' gazes found each other again and locked once more. All they wanted to say was said in that one gaze. Then Wyatt was gone.
Chris was ready to cry but couldn't let go since he was in his parents' hold. Yet his little big brother knew him well enough and orbed to him, hugging him around his neck. Chris let go and both boys landed on the couch.
"Shsh, Chris. It's okay, everything will be fine. I promise," Leo assured and rubbed his son's back. The boy leaned onto him and the father spoke soothing words. "It's going to be okay. We'll be there."
Piper sent her younger sisters quietly away what they did with a heavy heart, especially Phoebe. But she and Paige knew that the parents would have more luck in calming Chris who had now lost his last link to his future. All hope laid now in changing the future for good.
A/N: Spells are mine, only one line was borrowed from the show.
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Post by Tim on Sept 2, 2016 23:35:48 GMT -5
21. Reality Check
ONE MONTH LATER
After Wyatt had gone, Chris had played with his younger version most of the time. Aunts and parents had done in their best to cheer him up but nothing had worked. Only 14 days later, the young man had suddenly jumped up and orbed out. Then everything was back to normal. Or as normal as it could be in the Halliwell home.
Now the little family was sitting in the kitchen, eating their breakfast. Piper and Leo smiled at their boys who were sitting close to each other and Wyatt was fed by Chris. Well, in the normal world it'd be the other way around and Piper always stroked over her large belly.
"Mom, where are the aunts?" came Chris' question all of a sudden, startling the mother. "Mom!"
"What?" she said blushing. "Oh yeah. Phoebe's at work again, because all had calmed down a bit. Well, partly and she wanted to go into stats. And Paige is at Richard's, because, well, you know."
"Right," he drolled out and looked at his Dad who smiled only. "Oh Dad. Have there been any reports of missing witches lately? I mean, the Elders know all as they say. Anyway, I've eavesdropped on a weird talk of two demons yesterday."
"Wait, you've been in the underworld again? Alone?" Piper protested harshly, dropping her food angrily. "I thought we'd made rules for you and you didn't listen obviously."
"Piper!" Leo cut in firmly. "I think this is important. What have you heard, Chris? I'll give the information then to the Elders if they don't know it yet."
The Charmed One hmphed not amused. "Fine. If witches are missing, I can't complain. Okay, peanut. What news have you got for us?"
"Thanks Mom." Chris grinned at the woman and kissed her on the cheek over the table. "As for the information: I've heard them talking about an amazing fight between witches and a group of demons. It kinda sounded like they were chasing her, to get her powers. Weird enough, from their words it sounded like a game or a show."
"Strange," Piper only commented.
"I take it you want me to check up with the Elders?" Leo asked and his son nodded. "Fine, I'll do it. What are you going to do?"
"Find out more." Chris shrugged. "I have a feeling." He turned to his Mom. "Could you phone Paige? To warn her, just in case."
Piper nodded and grabbed the phone, calling her baby sister. "Hi Paige. It's me, Piper. Yeah, listen. Chris has heard about missing witches and I call to warn you and Richard. There's something weird going on in the underworld." A pause. "Yeah, I know. Just be careful. Bye." She laid the phone down. "Okay, what now?"
"You'll lay down, Piper. We've got all covered," Leo assured her. "You're pregnant and you'll have to be careful this time. Baby Chris is different." His son hmphed only. "Anyway, you can call Phoebe home anytime."
"Fine." Piper looked at her men smiling. "You are allowed to go now." Both men kissed her on the cheek and orbed away. She sighed and watched her older boy. "You two are going to be handful, aren't you?" Her son giggled. "Okay, let's then clean up."
But at first, the mother finished her breakfast and stroked over her big belly. She looked forward to see her baby as a baby for the first time and she'd make sure Chris would be born at the Manor too. Just like Wyatt.
MONTANA'S HOUSE
Richard and Paige were also eating their breakfast as Piper had called. The younger sister had agreed to all and told Richard about this who had nodded, but both looked at each other strangely.
"Weird," Paige stated after the call. "Piper says that Chris suggests it may be a show or a game. He's in the underworld again to find out more while Leo checks up with the Elders."
"Okay. Any news on that Elder who's after your nephews?" Richard asked curiously. He'd only caught glimpses of all of this, because they hadn't seen each other for some time.
Paige smiled at him. "Oh, I'm sure Chris looks after the Elder himself. He's just like his Mom in that case. Anyway, you have anything in mind now?"
Before Richard could answer, a demon shimmered in, startling the two lovers. As fireballs flew through the air, both Paige and Richard ducked on instinct. As they came up, another demon shimmered in and a warlock blinked.
"Oh great. More demons," Paige whispered to Richard. "Where to? Secretly and where it's safe."
Richard nodded. "Our potion's cabinet. We can lock us in. Orb or crawl?" He heard the footsteps of the demons. "Paige?"
"Where's our target?" the first demon said again and started to walk through the house. "If we get him, his powers will be mine. That's for sure."
The other demon and warlock snorted. "That's still under discussion, my friend," the warlock threatened and did the same.
"Hey man, we all are here for our own fun," the other demon cut in, doing the same like his 'colleagues'. "Come out, come out, wherever you are! Come out, come out!"
"Okay, we'll orb!" Paige decided quickly and turned into white lights but their orb cloud was violently hit with a bat, making both fall unconscious to the floor.
Richard recovered faster and checked onto Paige before the bat came flying again. He stopped it with his arms but the warlock grabbed his waist. "What's going on?" the witch wanted to know.
"Well, witch," the demon said very evil. "You are part of a show and now it's time to end this."
The warlock was quicker and killed the man with his athame. Richard fell dead to the floor, beside Paige. "Ha, victory for me," he announced happily and blinked away.
His other two players looked at each other. Both demons shimmered away, knowing what was in store for them when they returned. They'd be gone too. Their powers lost. For good.
As Paige finally came to, the house was silent. Too silent. "Richard?" she asked afraid but no reply. Looking around, the youngest Charmed One saw the body and failed in waking him up. On instinct she knew it was useless to call for Leo and Paige cried and cried.
Hours later, the woman walked out of the house – like a robot. She felt empty but then became determined to find Richard's murderer. With the help of her sisters and, of course, Leo and Chris. Paige would succeed – no matter what.
UP THERE
When Leo reformed, he caused some raised eyebrows which the man ignored. Looking at the crowd, he spotted Odin and Sigmund and other Elders but no Gideon what made him suspicious. Then he saw how Kevin and Roland came to him running.
"Leo, what are you doing here?" Roland hissed quietly and dragged their friend to a corner. "Shouldn't you be with your family as Chris is going to be born soon!"
"I know," the father replied annoyed. "But I'm here, because Chris has found something out or better heard. Have you heard of missing witches who then shortly appear again dead?"
Shocked Roland looked at Kevin and then back at Leo. "We have but no idea who's behind this. Chris might be onto something if he goes to the underworld alone. To find out more."
Leo tensed suddenly. "Paige's distressed and I think I should return now. Maybe Chris has returned by now too." He started to orb but …
"Wait, Leo!" Kevin stopped the father who did that. The young Elder produced a drawn image of Paige and Richard. Their Wicca friend looked – dead. "I think it has become personal for your family. You're right: It's better you go now. Good luck!" Kevin walked away.
Leo turned baffled to Roland. "Does he mean Richard is dead?" His colleague nodded. "Chris is not in danger, is he? He said to have a bad feeling and guesses to think Gideon has something to do with it."
"You should go, Leo," Roland suggested only and gave his colleague a friendly squeeze. "Be careful and good luck!" Before he finally walked away, the Elder added cryptically, "Chris was already right though. You'll find out soon enough." Roland was gone.
Leo's hand went through his hair irritated. Sighing, the father and Elder orbed back home, hoping for the best but fearing for the worst. Leo shared the not spoken aloud feeling of his youngest son which he hadn't decided yet to be good or bad.
MEANWHILE IN THE UNDERWORLD
Chris had used Phinks again. After a long time of finding him, that is. Obviously the little ass-licker had learned from previous mistakes but Chris had found the little pest easily and questioned him. Phinks hadn't had a chance, so Chris was now on his way to the caves where the show was made.
"That's really stupid," the young man mumbled. "As if we don't have enough reality shows already. Totally crazy these demons."
From time to time all kind of demons crossed his way but they were talking heatedly about their favorite game show. How the witches were killed and had fought, or not, against their attackers. One name caught Chris' attention. Richard – which only meant his aunt Paige was now mourning and he should return home.
"Yeah, this guy was useless. Didn't fight and all," one demon complained angrily but then again. "But his lady was hot. Definitely hot."
"Agreed," the other one said. "What do you think they'd find out today? The show is really good."
"Indeed. Witches are way easier to kill this way. We don't have to make our hands dirty." The demon laughed. "Up to the bar?"
The other demon thumbed up. "You are right. I just now see witches dying. That's all fun for me." He grabbed his 'colleague' and both walked to the bar.
Chris had listened carefully to the talk. In it were useful information but for the moment, he didn't know what to do. Follow these demons to the bar or should he find the 'producers' first? Along with Gideon. Hopefully.
He decided for the bar first. If he could see the show's caves, maybe he'd find those caves himself. Unseen Chris slipped in and watched the show 'Witch Wars' interested. Great, just great. Sounded like the old movie by George Lucas. The title he'd forgotten but Chris' eyes were glued onto the screen. Well-made … and he knew these caves.
Quietly and unseen the young man slipped out. Seeing that all demons were watching this show, Chris was sure he could orb close to the 'studio' of this show. Really crazy, these demons.
When Chris was close by, he listened to the rather heated discussion between, to his not utter shock, Gideon and the two producers, Corr and Clea. They were smiling about their latest move and Chris was getting angry at their casual talk about Richard.
"I think we have a guest," the Elder whispered to the two demons who agreed nodding. Corr shimmered away.
Chris was irritated now. What was going on? The answer came with a hard hit on his head, making him unconscious and bleeding.
Corr looked at the boy. "What do we do with him now? He seems strong and could be useful," he suggested.
"Good idea," Clea agreed smiling but at a look at their Elder 'friend' told her different things. "What do you have in mind, Elder?"
"That he is, indeed," Gideon confirmed smiling as well. "He is our hostage if the Charmed Ones come after us. That they'll do for sure after Richard was killed."
"Aren't they after you already?" Clea requested and looked at her partner. "By the way, where do we hide him?"
Gideon looked at her angrily. "In time, friends. Hide him here but tie the boy up well. I bet he has some experience from his time." Corr accepted and did as told. "I'll speak with him later."
Corr looked at his female partner who could only shrug. He tied the boy up – tightly and wondered what the Elder had in mind. Still, with Clea he had a show to run.
BACK AT THE MANOR
When the man returned, he found all three sisters huddled together. Paige was crying and being comforted by her older sisters. It seemed they already knew what had happened to Richard. He sighed what caught the women's attention.
"Leo!" Piper said shocked but relieved. "I didn't notice you were back. Have you heard this from Richard and what did our lovely Elders say to Chris' theory?"
"I'm so sorry, Paige," Leo comforted his sister-in-law and rubbed her back before turning to his wife. "Yes, I have. Kevin had shown me a drawn picture of his and so I know. As for the second: The Elders seemed to agree."
"Oh," Piper only said stunned.
"Thanks Leo," Paige then replied, sneezing her nose. "I just want to find those demons responsible. What can we do?"
"We should wait for Chris," Phoebe suggested, looking at all. "He knows more about this kind of stuff than we. Plus, he has some experience."
"True," Leo admitted and looked around. "Has he not come back yet?" All shook their heads. "That's not his style. He must have found something down there."
"Again, what can we do?" Paige repeated her question. "Should we follow Chris' trail in the underworld or just wait for any sign of him?"
Piper did her best to not show her worry about her baby. Alone in the underworld, again, in God knows what danger. Going over her belly, the mother hoped to suppress her tears but distracted herself with looking at her other baby.
"I don't know," Leo replied sighing. "I do share the strange feeling Chris had, yet we should find out what kind of show we're dealing with."
The younger sisters shared a look, thinking the same. Phoebe offered this. "How about Paige and I go to the underworld, ask some demons or find anything unusual there? Paige could glamor us if need be. You'd agree?"
And Paige added, "If we found anything, we'll come back and fetch you. We're only strong as the almighty Power of Three." She grinned but then became serious again. "Maybe we'll find Chris there too."
Leo looked at his wife, hoping for her answer but she only shrugged. He could see Piper was ready to cry. "Okay," he decided quickly. "Go and be careful! And don't do anything stupid, Paige!"
The youngest Charmed One rolled her eyes but nodded. "I have Phoebe beside me. She'd calm me if I tick out," she said, still a bit sadly.
Phoebe just nodded and squeezed her sister's hand, giving her a signal to orb them out. What they did, leaving two distraught parents behind who took care of their son.
'WITCH WARS' – STUDIO
Gideon circled the young man who had been tied up to a chair very tightly. Watching him, Leo's mentor could really see how much he resembled the eldest Charmed One. More and more he believed it was a mistake to let Leo and Piper marry.
Chris was saying something behind his gag which was removed thankfully. Breathing again, he looked at the Elder furiously. "You can say anything you want but that doesn't change the outcome," he told the Elder. He tried to read but failed.
"I see you've got your mother's temper. Anyway, you are right though: We can't change it anymore." The Elder put his hand on Chris' knees. "You and your brother are really powerful. Even if you, on the surface, don't look like it, I can feel it. This power I can't tolerate. Neither in Wyatt nor in you. If we'd known what we'd have gotten by letting Piper and Leo marry, we'd have never allowed it."
Chris just glared at him. "It's kinda too late for it, isn't it? By the way, your way of thinking leads my brother to a lot of damage in the future. I thought the Elders were all-knowing. Haven't you seen it?"
Gideon hit the boy harshly in the face. "Don't you dare to disobey! I'm not your ordinary Elder as you already know and I'll achieve my goal anytime. You won't disturb me."
"We'll see, we'll see," Chris only said glaring at him again. "Besides, you know my family. There's one thing what unites us all: We never give up!"
"True," Gideon admitted smirking. "Still, you will stay here until your family may find you. But that's under discussion as far as I know." He looked at the two demons who produced this show. "You see, if need be, you can be part of it."
"You're crazy," the young man only stated annoyed.
The Elder waved his hand at the boy, ignoring him for now as he now joined his two 'companions' for the time being, yet wondered where Zankou was. This demon was just … weird. He smiled falsely at Corr and Clea and helped them in their next move.
UNDERWORLD, DIFFERENT PART
"Damn," Paige swore violently as the two sisters already vanquished another demon. "We should have prepared more potions and why can't we act like Chris in this case?"
Phoebe sighed. "I don't know. If you could not just glamor yourself but me as well? Would be helpful right now." She turned to her little sister. "Can you?"
"I don't know." Paige shrugged and sighed. "But we need to find some clues here! Damn!" As some demons walked past them, Paige grabbed her sister to get her safely but however, they were noticed. "Uh, hi," she greeted them shyly.
They narrowed their eyes at each other. One spoke, "Can we help you? Though you seem out of place." He ran over his face, thinking.
"No, we're right here," Phoebe quickly countered. "Anyway, any news around here? We were gone for some time, you know." She hoped her plan wouldn't backfire.
"Well," the other one said. "We were on our way to a bar where a great show is playing. Witches are hunted by any kind of demons. Interested?"
"Maybe," Paige cut in and walked closer to the pair, working on their primal instincts. "Would you please be so kind and tell us what show you mean and which demons stand behind it? Could you do us this little favor? Please."
Phoebe was impressed of her little sister's action and hoped the demon would give them the answer they wanted and needed.
Again, the two demons shared a look. Shrugging, they decided to answer and the first one spoke again. "The show we mean is called 'Witch Wars' and really cool if you ask me and the demons responsible are called Corr and Clea."
"Thanks buddy," Paige said smiling. "Would you maybe also know where the studio is?" Both shook their heads. "Oh, that's bad but still you'd been a great help." She nodded to Phoebe.
Immediately both Charmed Ones pulled out some vials and threw them at the unexpected demons who were vanquished instantly. Looking at each other, the women orbed with their gathered information back to the Manor.
HALLIWELL HOUSE
Piper paced around the living anxiously with one hand over her belly and her gaze switched from it to her other baby who sat in his Daddy's lap, quietly whining. Why hadn't anyone returned yet?
"Piper, calm down, please," Leo stated after a while watching her. "This is not good for the baby! You should take care more of yourself now. Please, Piper. Listen to your body!"
"Leo, we're talking about my sisters and my peanut here! I can worry as much as I want," the woman nearly exploded but looked up as orbs were forming. "About time."
Only it were two different clouds, forming on each side of the couple. The one to the right formed into Phoebe and Paige and on the other side Gideon. Shocked the four adults looked at him and didn't know how to react. If he came to them, when they hadn't called him, what was Gideon doing here?
"Um … hi," Gideon greeted the family kindly. "I came to you immediately because I've heard some rumors about Chris."
Four jaws dropped. After all, they hadn't told anyone about Chris missing. Wyatt's forcefield was raised but Paige recovered firstly. "How do you know? We never told anyone, so?"
Gideon watched the family and grabbed at his collar nervously. "Well, just like Chris has contacts in the underworld, I have some as well and they told me Chris is being held hostage by demons. He must be seeing them as a threat to Wyatt."
"Really?" Leo requested stunned and picked his eldest son up, kissing him to calm Wyatt down. "Somehow I don't believe you. All of us. I'm sure you know something."
"Leo, this is crazy," Gideon defended himself. "I just want to help you. I care about Chris as much as you do."
"Bullshit," Piper yelled out suddenly and held her hands out, ready to blow the Elder up. "I agree with Leo. You are hiding something, no, make that a lot, from us! By the way, we already know your plan."
Gideon paled and knew that too but then he laughed, shocking the others. "You won't find him, I promise. He'll be dead soon, anyway." The Elder orbed away before the furious mother could carry out her threat.
A vase blew up instead. "Damn him!" the eldest sister shouted angrily and Wyatt covered his ears afraid. "Sorry, baby," Piper apologized, kissing him on the head before turning to her younger sisters. "What did you find out? Good news, please."
"Well," Phoebe began. "It seems Chris was right. There's a show called 'Witch Wars' which is very popular in the underworld. The producers are named Corr and Clea and there's a bar where the demons are obviously watching it. We need to act!"
"True," Paige continued. "We don't know what they have been doing meanwhile. If they had collected powers or just been helpful for whoever. I don't care but I feel they are responsible for Richard's death." Her older sister rubbed her back to comfort her a bit. Thankfully she nodded at her.
"Okay, we understand," Piper summed up. "Found a location or anything else we could use to find my baby?"
Both younger women shook their heads, feeling as if they had failed their younger nephew.
Leo walked to the spot where Gideon had stood before, thinking and touching. "There might be a way," he offered, still deep in thought. "I don't know yet if it will work. Never done this before and there's no guarantee."
"Leo, what are you rambling about?" Piper demanded rather impatiently. "If there's a way, share it with the class, please!"
"Sorry," he apologized. "What I wanted to say is that as an Elder I should be able to follow Gideon's orb trail."
"Even if he's in the underworld?" Phoebe requested incredulously. "I remember as a whitelighter you had problems and now I doubt your theory. Sorry."
"Maybe, we could try it?" Paige put in, not wanting to hurt Leo's feeling. "We have nothing to lose. Besides, we have another link to Chris."
"Wyatt," Piper agreed nodding. "I had the same in mind." She turned to her husband. "Okay, Leo. Do your magic and we'll see if it works. I have a bad feeling."
"You not alone," the Elder said and handed their son to his mother. Closing his eyes, he concentrated on his former mentor before grabbing a sister's hand and orbing away. The other two quickly followed.
'WITCH WARS' – STUDIO, UNDERWORLD
Good fifteen minutes earlier, Gideon had reformed in the studio where his two demonic companions were waiting. "They'll be here soon," he'd warned them. "I forgot a little detail." He looked at their hostage and grinned. "It's time for us to use him."
Corr and Clea had looked at each other confused then angrily. The male demon had spoken, "Are you crazy? You'd been stupid enough to let it happen. We should never have trusted you to begin with. Still, what do you want us to do?"
Gideon had smiled then and had quickly explained them the maybe situation they'd have to face sooner or later. Also his plans for Chris in that game. As the Elder was sensing the others' arrival, he gave them a signal to leave what he did with their hostage.
Only two minutes later, the complete family orbed in and looked around but found nothing. Wyatt was reaching out, having sensed his brother here before but also knowing on instinct, he was close by.
"Wyatt?" Piper questioned perplexed as her eldest reacted weird in her eyes. "Leo, what's going on?"
"He was here, I'm sure," the Elder only offered, still looking around as if he could see his enemy what meant his former mentor. "Anyway, we should be careful. Anything can happen."
"Guys, you should see this," Phoebe announced anxiously and gestured to a screen where the show played. "We have a problem. A huge one."
Piper and Leo came over and gasped. They were watching how their youngest was fighting with demons and darklighters. It was hard to see as Chris had already numerous wounds.
"What do we do? We can't be anywhere at the same time, can we?" Paige asked stunned and her eyes turn away from the screen. "I just feel so helpless."
"You're not alone with that feeling," Phoebe said, rubbing her sister's arm. "Leo, Piper, any ideas?"
Leo took over since his wife couldn't speak. "Well, I think we should split up. Do we have some potions with?" All shook their heads. "Damn! Then we have to improvise. We need to stop these demons and their show at first. This has to be our first priority!"
"I'll help you," Piper spoke up determined.
"No," Leo countered half yelling. "I want you to stay behind with Wyatt. Just in case our 'little' problems will be back. You two have the fire power and are angry enough to do that, okay?"
The eldest Charmed One looked up at him with one hand on her belly. "Okay," she whispered.
"We three do our best to cancel this show for good! Those demons are really stupid to copy anything from us!" Leo rambled before orbing away. The two sisters followed suit.
Piper looked at her baby who raised his forcefield around them, waiting for anything to happen.
THE FIGHT
Leo had orbed to his baby boy, helping him in the fight but also trying not to get hit by the flying arrows. Keeping Chris out of the attack was not an easy task but with Chris' telekinesis they managed.
"Dad, you could use your Elder bolts, you know," the son begged with some sarcasm in his voice. "By the way, thank you for saving me. For now." It was only a whisper before the boy collapsed from sheer exhaustion.
Leo looked shocked at his son but then became furious, more livid, and vanquished and tortured the demons which had haunted his son before – with his Elder bolts. A power he should only use in emergency but he didn't care.
After having this done, the father immediately healed his son and sent him, under Chris' protest, to his mother while Leo helped Phoebe and Paige.
Those two, meanwhile, had taken out some demons at the bar they had visited before. But somehow the demons were replaced quicker than they could vanquish them. Phoebe and Paige seriously needed help.
Leo came to their rescue as if he'd sensed it. With his Elder bolts which he blunded up in a blast, completely wrecking the bar and the demons. Then the Elder looked stunned at his hands.
"Wow, Leo, that was impressive," Phoebe said shocking, with her hands on the face. "What was that?"
"Later," Paige demanded impatiently. "The producers were not here. How's Chris?"
"With Piper," he answered. "Oh my God!" Leo orbed, followed by the two younger Charmed Ones.
THE END OF 'WITCH WARS'
Piper and her two sons were cornered by Corr and Clea but still protected by Wyatt's forcefield. Energy balls were flying at it but it remained intact. "Hey!" she shouted annoyed.
Chris tried to use his telekinesis, to cut the demons off their heart but they were quicker and, best of all, two upper level demons. "Damn," he cursed silently, knowing his mother all too well.
Then some energy blasted Corr and Clea and the three of them looked up stunned. "Dada," said Wyatt and orbed to his Daddy.
"I'd say the show is dropped," Chris commented dryly. He grinned at his family. "Let's go home. Thanks Dad. For the rescue, again." He orbed away.
Leo grinned too and took hold of Piper and Wyatt, ready to orb them home and gave Paige and Phoebe a nod to follow them. What they did and the whole family met back at the Manor.
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Post by Tim on Sept 2, 2016 23:36:44 GMT -5
22. Circle of Life, Pt 1 UNDERWORLD, NOVEMBER 2004Another meeting? Zankou cursed under his breath as he shimmered yet again to Gideon's secret underworld lair. If that went on, he'd never have time to free his past self. As he entered, Zankou saw Gideon and another Elder there what caused him to raise an eyebrow and look confused. Gideon noticed the look and quickly explained, "Oh sorry, this is my fellow Elder Sigmund and the other one has agreed to wait for another opportunity later on. I take it you wonder why I called you?" "Indeed. Why did you bring him in? He looks like a little coward to me," Zankou said amused. "So, what is it?" "I'm sure you know that Piper's nearly due, giving birth to Chris and this is my time to attack. The Twice-Blessed must die, along with his little brother. Both are way too powerful. They'd destroy the balance!" Zankou just waved his hand at the man impatiently. "Yeah, I know, I know. What do you need my help with? If I do that and Wyatt finds out, I'm dead, no matter what." "I thought you wanted to create a new future for you? Did I miss anything here?" Gideon asked bewildered. "Anyway, I want you to distract either Chris or Leo if I call you. Deal?" Again a raised eyebrow. "Sure, deal. By the way, is this Sigmund always so quiet? He'd also be a great minion in my world." Zankou looked at Gideon directly. "What's your exact plan?" Gideon smiled pleased. "I believe Piper wants Chris to be born in the Manor as well. Just like Wyatt had been, over the Nexus. Both boys would be powerful then. If Piper gives birth to Chris, Wyatt will be alone then and I'll attack and kidnap him!" "And what if he's not alone? You said it yourself: Chris would barely leave his brother alone, knowing you already are responsible for his turning! You could sign your own death warrant if you know both are powerful. You contradict yourself!" Zankou shook his head at the Elder's weird thinking. "Might be," Gideon admitted. "I'll call Leo to find out more what's going on at the Manor. You hear from me soon." The Elder and his fellow minion orbed away. Zankou just shook his head. Gideon was crazy to attack this way but he wouldn't say anything. It was the Elder's fight. If Wyatt found out his role in this game, he'd do anything to get him back and kill Zankou himself. He needed to speak with Kira fast and do all to secure him a great destiny for the new future. He shimmered to the Seer's lair. AT THE MANORChris woke up confused and startled. Rubbing his eyes, he wondered what had woken him up. Hearing a soft whimper and the sound of orbing, Chris immediately grabbed the bundle and spoke soothing words to Wyatt. "Shsh, it's okay, Wy," he said before hearing finally the cause of Wyatt's whining. "Mama, Dada," the boy offered to his brother, knowing he could work out what was wrong with their parents. Wyatt leaned onto his brother's shoulder. Chris sighed and made his way to the kitchen where the noises were coming from. Showing his big brother how to cover his ears, Chris entered the kitchen and let out a loud whistle, startling Piper and Leo. "Alright, what's going on?" he demanded angrily. "Sorry," his father apologized sheepishly. "Your Mom and I just had a little … discussion about something. Nothing for you to worry about." Chris snorted and rolled his eyes. Then he pulled Wyatt's hands down and turned to his parents. "Well, your little 'discussion' made Wyatt whimper and woke me up. And now I want to know the issue of your 'discussion'." "Well," Piper began nervously and had to sit down slowly. "We were talking about where you'd be born. Your father wants it in the hospital while I want it here. Just like Wyatt had. How was it in your time?" "As far as I know, the hospital because my pregnancy wasn't easy for Mom. But I think there was a 'discussion' also before from my not so secretly Aunt had told me." Chris looked around. "Where are the aunts, by the way?" "Out. Buying things for me. Diapers and so." Her baby blushed and Wyatt giggled. "It also helps Paige's mourning over Richard, you know." Piper turned to Leo who cringed all of a sudden. "Leo? What is it?" "Gideon. He's calling me but I don't understand why." Leo winced even more as the jingling increased. "I don't want to leave you right now. Chris' birth is so close." Again a headache was forming and Leo cursed silently. "Well, then you should go," Piper suggested smiling. "I'm sure he wants to know something from you and about our boys." The eldest sister so hated the Elders, especially Gideon. "But you'll call if anything happens." Leo looked at his wife and his boys who all nodded. "Right, see you soon!" The man orbed away. Chris walked over to his mother, rubbing her on the upper arm. "Mom, you feeling okay? I'm not making you nausea or anything else." Piper smiled lovingly at her baby. "Don't worry so much, peanut. This is my second pregnancy as you realize." Her son rolled his eyes and Wyatt giggled. "Everything will be fine at the end. In your future." Chris said nothing to this, because his thoughts were going into another direction. Phoebe's visions occupied them still and sometimes even didn't let him sleep but he didn't voice this to his Mom. "Peanut?" Piper asked concerned about her son's silence. "Are you okay? You're scaring me a bit." "Oh, I'm sorry, Mom." Chris kissed her quickly on the cheek and let his big brother do the same. Just then the front door clicked. "I think the aunts are coming home. Should I stay here for a bit longer if you want me to?" "I insist, baby. No backword!" Piper yelled to her sisters. "Phoebe, Paige! We're in the kitchen! Did you get all I ordered?" "Yes, Mom," came their instant replies before both women came into view, with shopping bags in their hands. They sat them down and began to put the items away. "So, my dear nephew," Phoebe started casually. "When's your birthday? We have November and I believe you're going to be the cutest baby ever!" She batted her eyes at him lovingly. Paige elbowed her older sister in the ribs for these thoughts. "Don't listen to her, Chris! She's a bit insane." Phoebe glared at her which she ignored. "Anyway, should we write a spell for you to go back to the future? I mean, it's nearly time. Not that I want you to go and all, you know." Chris stopped her by laying a finger on her lips. He smiled at them and shifted Wyatt in his arms. "I know what you're trying to do but I was always aware that there's a risk of me not going back home." He stroked through his brother's blond hair. "I really appreciate your concern though." "Baby," Piper began and stood up, touching Chris' cheek lovingly and Chris leaned into it. "I know you are strong, tough and have already endured a lot but you have to understand us. We just don't want to lose you." "I know," he whispered sadly and looked down. His fears were still there if he went back and his mother won't be there. "Where's Leo, by the way?" Paige suddenly asked. "Shouldn't he be here when his son is going to be born now? I'm sure he wants it." "Gideon called him," the eldest sister answered. "For whatever reason but I have a bad feeling." "You're not the only one," Phoebe assured her and shared a concerned look with her baby sister but remained silent. "Okay, let's play a bit," Paige said, trying to cheer all up. "This is a wonderful day and we should enjoy it." The other two sisters and Chris rolled their eyes but did as told. Wyatt just giggled anytime, happy to play with anyone now. All wouldn't want to think about it. MAGIC SCHOOL, GIDEON'S OFFICELeo materialized outside the office and growled under his breath. Before he walked in, a hand stopped him and made him look confused at the owner. It was Sigmund. "What is it, man?" the Elder asked a bit annoyed. "Gideon's called me, again." "I know," Sigmund answered nervously, looking around as if they were watched by someone. "Look, Leo, please. I need to speak with you about something important! It's about your boys." Leo raised an eyebrow at his supposed enemy but couldn't do it as the door opened suddenly and revealed an angry looking Gideon. "Oh, hi Gideon. I was just about to come to you," he apologized and shoved his old mentor back into his office. "Fine," Gideon said only but shouted at his fellow Elder. "Sigmund, could you prepare my school's papers, please? I'll need them tomorrow." "Sure," Sigmund replied and hurried away quickly. "Alright, Gideon, why did you call me?" Leo asked annoyed. "You know Piper's nearly due and I want to be there when Chris is born." He grinned sheepishly. "You know the birth is just such a miracle and now it's already happening a second time." Gideon just gave him a look. "Are you trying to send your son back to the future? I mean, his work is done, isn't it?" Leo's eyes blazed over with fury. "I don't know what you're talking about. Wyatt isn't safe yet and you know why. What have you planned for my boys, Gideon? Tell me." "Don't you know it already?" Gideon looked at his former pupil closely. A jingling was heard. "I think you're needed back at home. Go!" Leo only glared at the man before walking off. When he was away for some time, the father went to Sigmund who had wanted to speak with him. He'd found him in the library. "Sigmund?" "Just be careful, Leo. Gideon can be tricky and if he has a goal in mind, you'll get my meaning?" Sigmund hoped his cryptic words would help Leo understand. His colleague nodded what made the Elder sigh relieved. Leo finally orbed away, leaving Sigmund alone. "Sigmund, Sigmund, Sigmund," came Gideon's voice out of nowhere, freezing the other Elder in his tracks. "You disappoint me, my friend. I expected more from you." The smaller Elder swallowed hard. "I'm sorry, Sir but I can't do that anymore. Our own morals are against what you want to do. I'm out!" "Well, it's your decision." Gideon held the man in an hold and walked in front of him. "The boys are a threat to the balance and at least, one of them has to die!" Again Sigmund defended his turn. "We don't know for sure if our measures are the cause for Wyatt's turning. And Chris is no threat to anyone! He's proven to be a good boy." "You are right, though but we as Elders have the knowledge. We can prevent it!" Sigmund shook his head, leaving Gideon no other choice. "I'm really sorry, my friend but it's for the Greater Good!" He clapped his hands and his old friend was nothing more than a pile of ash. Gideon looked sad but then continued his work. At first in and for the school and then, secretly, for his own plan: To get rid of Wyatt Matthew Halliwell. And maybe Chris Halliwell too. MANOR, NOVEMBER 15Leo was looking for his youngest son since his wife and sisters-in-law had decided to go shopping, with Wyatt in tow. In his eyes, it was a good idea, because they still needed some stuff for the baby. Smiling the father was not surprised to find his boy in the attic, where else, sitting with the Book in his lap. "Hey Dad, what's up?" the son asked without looking up and still going through the pages. "Where's Mom?" "Out. Buying diapers and so." His son grimaced at the thought, making Leo smile. "I've just built the crib up again." Another look of disgust. "Anyway, what are you looking for, buddy?" Chris sighed. "I thought there'd be something in here to get rid of an Elder but it's useless." He looked at his father. "You have an idea, Dad?" Leo smiled a bit and then gestured to the hidden object in the stone. "You could use Excalibur if need be." Then the older man got sad. "If you follow this path, Chris, we're going to lose you and that's something we can't bear." "I know but there's always a risk which I'm going to take. I can't let anything happen to my brother though." He saw how his Dad began to cry and Chris laid his head on the man's shoulder. "Please, Dad, trust me in this one. I know what I'm doing." "We haven't had Phoebe's visions for nothing. They exist for us to prevent them and that includes you, Chris." Leo cried now openly. "Please, Chris, listen to reason." "Dad," Chris said, grabbing his father's face to make him look at him. "I understand you, really I do but I've seen the future and there was a path I don't want for you. Please, Dad." "Okay, I stop now with my questions." Leo looked at his son's brown head. "You do know that you're just as stubborn as your Mom." He kissed the brown mop. "But I love you for that." Chris just snorted and said nothing to this statement. Now he made himself halfway comfortable on his Dad's shoulder and tried not to think about fate. It would only end bad if you went against it. UNDERWORLD, KIRA'S LAIR, SAME DAYThe Seer watched the future demon a bit fascinated but also amused as he paced around his past self what slowly got on her nerves. "Would you stop? You make me dizzy. What's in your mind?" Zankou glared at her briefly. "Gideon's plan. This Elder is totally crazy if you ask me, yet he sought out my help! As if I know all the answers. Anyway, I agreed already which means if Wyatt finds out, I'm dead." He looked directly at her now. "What have you seen for my future?" Kira went with her hand over her pool. "You are right though. You'll be dead but not in here, in this time. Gideon had found out you're from the future as well, just like Chris, yet knowing the young man would never go against his brother, the Elder came to you. It's only logic. By the way, what about your past self? I'd be pleased if my destiny changed, you know." Zankou looked at her a bit amused. "Mmh. It seems I have to do that the classic way. With a letter. Do you have paper and pen?" He just conjured it and wrote. "So, you're saying Wyatt's calling me back and is going to kill me?" "You said it, not me." "Chris' birthday is tomorrow, so Gideon will strike then." Zankou handed the letter to Kira. "Here, show that my past self if he's freed anytime. You'll be saved, woman." "Thanks." Kira watched the letter curiously but then a weird noise came through the ceiling. "What's that? Are you being called by Gideon?" "Damn him," Zankou cursed under his breath. "His plan is already detailed enough but for him, I'll be only a distraction. God, Wyatt will know what I do." "Yeah, he'll be furious," Kira agreed smirking. "You're going to attack his little brother and family means a lot for the Halliwells. You know that already." Zankou smirked back. "Thank you, Captain Obvious. Anyway, I should go now before the Elder freaks out." The future demon walked to the Seer, hugging her thankfully. "Thanks Kira. For anything you did for me and so." Then. "Don't ask. I'm gone now." He shimmered away. Kira looked baffled after the demon. Well, that was interesting. Only time could tell what would happen to her. The only thing clear was that Chris' fate was already written in stone. Kira was near tears, just by thinking of the boy. MANOR, NOVEMBER 16Chris was sitting rather nervously at the breakfast table, looking at each family member and also thinking about the weird situation. Today was his birthday, yet he was still in the past when he should already be in his future … or somewhere else. Yet the young man knew where his fate was already leading. "Chris, are you okay?" Piper asked slowly afraid. Her son blinked and then nodded. "Good, I thought you were lost to me for some time with being so quiet and all. Is really everything alright with you?" Her younger son quickly laid a hand on her arm. "Mom, don't panic! You still have me in you and I'd prefer to come out a bit later, you know," Chris explained smiling but his mind was drawn to the attic, the place of fate. "Right," Piper agreed, patting her big belly and then turned to her husband. "Leo, do you think we have everything here? I mean, every birth is different." Chris blushed and grabbed his brother quickly out of his chair. "Okay, if you're going to discuss this issue, I'm gone. Wyatt shouldn't hear this as well. Anyway, we're in the attic." And the boys bolted upstairs as fast as they could. "Chris, wait!" Phoebe shouted and tried to stop her nephew but failed. Looking down sadly, she whispered, "He's going to his death." "I think he's already accepted his fate," Leo responded in the same tone. "And with him being an adult already, we can't force him to stay." The father looked at his wife's belly. "Besides, we should concentrate on the new baby coming." "You're right, Leo," Paige spoke up for the first time. "Yet I can't forget what Phoebe had told us about." "No one ever would," Piper also whispered quietly. "So, what do we do?" Phoebe asked, looking at anyone in the room. "I can't watch to see my vision play out. I just can't." "Minor question again," Paige said after some silence and all turned to her. "Shouldn't your Dad be here? I mean, he was when Wyatt was born, right?" A loud bang from above distracted the Halliwells from answering Paige's question. All looked up and feared for the worst. ATTIC When Chris entered the old room, he first sighed in relief and leaned at the door. His brother seemed to know what he was thinking and he simply hugged him. Chris smiled, kissed Wyatt's head and put the little tyke into his playpen. And then made his way over to the Book. "Mmh, I was wondering when you'd show up," said a familiar voice. Immediately Chris turned around. "Hello Chris, long time, no see." "Zankou," the young man stuttered nervously and afraid. He saw Wyatt had raised his forcefield. "By the way, where's Gideon?" "I'm already here, son," said the Elder, waving his hand and the attic glowed in a strange color and its door closed and locked. "That's better. Now we're totally alone. No one would disturb us." Chris swallowed hard. "Well, we're here now. So, what's up?" He slowly walked closer to his brother whose forcefield could protect him too. The future demon and the Elder exchanged a look which didn't mean anything good and, indeed, a fireball appeared in Zankou's hand. "Here, a little present for you," the demon said and sent it to his victim. Chris waved his hand at the demon, sending him to the wall, yet the fireball hit him in the shoulder. "Damn, that hurt," he just stated, looking mad. Out of nowhere, Zankou was gone all of a sudden. It was white magic and easily recognized by Chris, knowing his brother's magic anywhere. One out of the way, one still to go. "That was Halliwell magic but not yours," Gideon said simply and stared at the young toddler. "Just give me your brother and I'll be gone without doing anything to you. Your brother is the only one I'm interested in." "True but I'm not taking any chances with you," Chris responded harshly. "Wyatt's my brother and no matter what, we would always rely on each other. It's my turn now." "Fine," the Elder only said and his opposite was thrown away into a cabinet which broke under the weight. With hate Gideon and Chris looked at each other, ready to battle with no mercy. Whoever would win at the end. TBC …
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Post by Tim on Sept 2, 2016 23:38:05 GMT -5
23. Circle of Life, Pt 2STILL ATTICChris was on his knees and threw with his own telekinesis the Elder away from Wyatt's playpen. "You'll leave him alone!" the boy threatened and made his way back to his brother. Gideon watched both boys satisfied before smirking. "I didn't want to but you leave me no other choice," said the Elder before turning invisible and conjuring an athame in his hand. On instinct Chris ran faster to Wyatt but was midway stopped by Gideon who appeared next to him and thrust the athame straight into his abdomen. "Dad," whispered the boy. "ISS!" came Wyatt's loud cry, shocking the whole house. Seeing the bad man coming to him, Wyatt blinked and blinked but his power failed here. Orbing to his baby brother, he stood in a protective way in front of him. Fascinated the Elder turned to the young Halliwells. "This is crazy, you know," he offered smiling. "But I must do it for the Greater Good." Chris scoffed and then coughed. "Good excuse, Elder! But you know how I was raised." His coughing increased and he felt a little hand on his arm. "I'm fine, Wy." "It's time to end this farce," Gideon concluded and walked toward the brothers, still with the bleeding athame in his hand. MANOR, LIVING ROOMThe more the noises increased above, the more Piper paced through the room. Any attempt to stop her either by her sisters or Leo ended up with mad glares. "I need to know what's going on there and it'd be better … NOW!" Then she had to grab her stomach. "Uh oh." "Piper? Is the baby coming?" Phoebe asked concerned, looking at her younger sister in worry. "Piper, speak with me, please!" "Not that way, I guess," the oldest woman said and sat down on a chair. "Uff. I think this birth is going to be a long one. Phoebe, would you prepare all already?" "Sure." The middle sister hurried away and hoped for the best for either boys. As the doorbell rang, Paige went like in trance to open. To her surprise, it was Victor, their sisters' father. "Victor, we were just talking about you. Anyway, what brings you here?" "I had an epiphany," the older man offered half smiling. "Can I come in please?" Paige let him in. "Where's anyone else?" Paige sighed softly. "Leo, no idea. Piper might be in labor and Phoebe's looking for the needed stuff. And the boys are facing their worst enemy." "Oh," Victor only said shocked. "Then I came right on time. Help Phoebe with that stuff. I'll take care of Piper, okay?" The youngest sister ran away while Victor went to his second born daughter. "Hey Piper, how do you feel?" "Daddy?! I'm glad you're here. I think Chris is coming and I want it just like Wyatt's had been, you know." Then Piper started to sob quietly. "My babies are in danger now. I can't do anything to help them and Leo is god knows where." "Shsh, Piper, calm down. It's not good for the baby." Victor kissed his daughter on the head and rubbed her on the back slightly. Deep inside, he wondered why Phoebe and Paige needed that long and recalled his instinct to come here. FLASHBACK
At his loft, Victor Bennett paced through it. He didn't know what to do, because in his mind Chris' words from his last visit repeated in it like a broken record. Besides, it was his birthday today.
The letter Chris had written then stood in his desk with 'DAD' on its front. While walking around, he always stopped in front of his study. Making up his mind, Victor only grabbed the letter and hurried to the Manor.
END OF FLASHBACKHearing how Piper's breathing became harder, Victor called for the other two. "Phoebe, Paige, hurry up! The baby's coming." Immediately the younger women appeared with the needed stuff. Together the three of them placed the pregnant woman on the table. "Piper, take slow and deep breaths. Everything will be fine at the end," Phoebe spoke up soothingly and helped her sister breath. Victor whispered to Paige. "Where's Leo? He should be here, you know." The youngest sister nodded. "Could you find him maybe?" "I don't know. I don't want to leave Piper now, Victor," Paige said sadly. She sobbed. "I just feel so helpless." "Okay," Victor summed up. "Let's help Piper first and then we'll see what comes." Phoebe and Paige nodded and were glad to have Victor here. Their sister was in labor, their nephews faced Gideon in the attic alone and their brother-in-law was nowhere to be found. Whatever was going on, they hoped for the best. CUT TO THE FUTURE, 2026As Zankou rematerialized, he came face-to-face with his Master or was he already his former one? He didn't care but why was his Master so angry? And the young man was looking rather pissed at him. The demon was convinced Wyatt would explode soon. "Hello Zankou," Wyatt greeted his former assassin politely. "Welcome back. I take it you're wondering why I summoned you." He still felt the pain in his shoulder and abdomen but tried hard to suppress them. "I'm sure you'll tell me now, won't you?" Zankou smirked but didn't know how to feel. He knew he was dead, anyway. "Well," the current leader of the world began but was interrupted by another voice coming in. "Dad, what are you doing here? I thought you were still out." Shocked and confused Leo looked between his son and his former assassin. Still, the father noticed how his son was slightly in pain. "What's going on?" he only wanted to know. Zankou started to grin now. "Oh, I see. Family's come together, again." He looked directly at Wyatt. "You're changing. Chris is going to succeed in his task and we're already seeing the result." "Thank you, Captain Obvious," Wyatt spat out sarcastically before changing his whole demeanor. "I release you from my given task, because it's canceled now. By me. Still, I know you're responsible for some things being done to my little brother! So what's your defense?" Zankou was irritated but only for a moment. "I was just following your order, man! You'd wanted him dead to begin with! If anyone's responsible, it'd be only you, Wyatt!" "True," Wyatt admitted, not only shocking his father but also the demon. "I can't deny what I did, yet recently you've changed your task to your own. What I haven't told you." "You see I realized Chris was right to do what he's doing. Why not changing the future to my advantage?" The demon shrugged smirking. "Oh. You did?" Wyatt crossed his arms over the chest and held the same tone like Zankou. "So you did some things to your own advantage if the future changes. Clever, really. Still, you hurt my little brother and that's something I can't tolerate!" "ENOUGH!" Leo shouted at the heated arguments. Both looked at him strangely, making the Elder sigh. "Wyatt, you should finally decide what you do with him and definitely not argue! He betrayed you and that's a fact! So, would you?" For a moment Wyatt was irritated before nodding to agree. "You're right, Dad. Zankou did as you told and that means only one thing." He built up his powers, ready to strike. "Whoa, wait a sec," Zankou cut in quickly, still knowing he knew something Wyatt didn't. "Has Daddy dearest told you already who's responsible for your turning and Chris' wound you're feeling?" "What do you mean?" Wyatt couldn't help but ask. Turning around, he questioned his father. "Dad, what's he talking about?" Leo sighed. "The moment he's gone," was his only offer. Wyatt barely nodded and with his energy blast Zankou was nothing more than a pile of ash. It was as if the demon had known what would happen to him by betraying him. Now Wyatt sighed but relieved before the pain returned nearly full force and he had to sit down. "Son, you okay?" Leo asked afraid. He knew of his sons' strong bond. "Hardly but I wanna know what Zankou had meant. And I want every detail." Wyatt was certainly confused but hoped to understand all of this. Another sigh of Leo before telling his son the cruel story around Chris' birth and the new changes. What was happening in the past. AT THE SAME TIME UP THERE, PASTLeo was furious, because he didn't get the answers he wanted. His colleagues knew what Gideon was doing to his sons and still they wouldn't help him. "What can I do? What can Chris do? To defeat Gideon. I want some answers." There was silence. "Now!" Roland stepped forward. "We are sorry, Leo. Really are but we can't interfere. This is Chris and Wyatt's fight and you gave your son a helpful hint to defeat Gideon." Kevin continued, in a very sad tone. "Besides, Piper has gone into labor. You're needed at home and you need to be strong. We do have compassion with you and your family but concentrate on Piper and the new baby, please!" "I just can't forget Phoebe's vision and I promised Chris to be always there for him." Leo saw how Odin began to protest. "This would go for the baby version." "No. I also include his adult self." Leo looked around and in the crowd. "By the way, has anyone seen Sigmund recently?" All Elders shook their heads. "No, we know what you think, Leo," Roland said and squeezed the man's arm. "You should go now, Leo. The attic of the Manor has fallen off of our radar for some time, so you're really needed at home!" Leo accepted finally and made his way back home. Fearing for the worst. Little did he know that the worst case scenario was nothing to it in reality. Kevin shared a look with Roland after Leo was gone before speaking up. "We should support the Halliwells in any possible way now. They are our future, especially Wyatt and Chris at the moment and later also Phoebe and Paige's offspring. That's our job." "Aren't you a bit too young to command us around, Kevin?" Odin objected and some Elders agreed with him. "What the Halliwells do is against all our rules, yet they have a right to break them like they want?" "STOP!" Roland shouted angrily. "Odin, we'll keep an eye on you but for now, be quiet! The Halliwells are our main concern now and we're helping them!" Odin growled and walked off. Some followed but the others stayed with Roland and Kevin. It was clear that even the Elders were split by this subject. There was some trouble ahead. MANOR, ATTICAs the Elder came closer to the brothers, Chris grabbed his baby big brother and orbed back to the playpen where he put Wyatt in again and collapsed in front of it, making the boy cry even harder. "Damn," he cursed silently. "Chris, you don't think you can defeat me, do you? You're too weak compared to your brother but I'm sure you were raised or had grown up this way." Gideon paced in front of the boys and blood dripped from the athame still. "You didn't give me any other choice now." "Really?" Chris coughed but still his brother touched him through the bars. "Wy, I'm fine." He turned to Gideon. "I thought your plan was to get rid of us from the start. You were definitely not happy, finding out I'm Piper and Leo's son as well." "True. But I don't understand how you could still protect him. After all he's done to you, in your future and all." Gideon looked directly at him. "Didn't you say he was evil?" "He was but no matter what he did or has done, he's still my brother." The coughing increased. "I see you believe in the good ol' morals. Good vs. Evil. They are useless." Shocked Chris looked up. That sounded strangely like Wyatt but then again. "You want to talk me to death? I think we should end this!" "Agreed." The Elder began to pierce Wyatt's shield but Gideon hadn't obviously blessed the athame, so it didn't work and the man cursed silently. Chris saw only one chance for himself as his eyes caught the sword in the stone. "Yeah, you see my Dad gave me one advice and I'm going to take it." "Which is?" Curiously Gideon looked at Chris. "Excalibur!" And the sword flew into the hand of its rightful owner. "Surprise," he smirked at Gideon. "That can't be! How is it yours when it should be Wyatt's?" Gideon stuttered nervously, looking really afraid now. "Well, obviously you didn't get the Elder memo! It's mine and the last thing you will see," Chris threatened and swung his heritage at the unexpected Elder who fell to the ground bleeding. "That's impossible," Gideon stuttered again and felt at his wound. The hand was bloody. "I can't believe this." "Oh, be sure, you can." Chris only then realized that little Wyatt had orbed out of the playpen and was now touching his leg. However, this action made him stronger. "And now it's time for you to die!" Together the brothers finished off Gideon who fell dead to the floor before turning into nothing more than a pile of ash. Immediately his charms were off and Chris sighed relieved, stroking over his brother's hair and collapsing onto the very floor himself. "Iss?" Wyatt questioned afraid and touched his brother slightly. "I'm fine, Wy." Chris kissed his brother's temple. "Go to Mommy. You're going to see me soon again." "Baby?" No answer and Wyatt leaned onto him. "Miss you." The little tyke orbed away. Chris coughed up blood. He was weak, because this fight had drawn him out. It was just a matter of time before he'd die but his baby self would be there. Chris just didn't want to die alone. LIVING ROOM, A BIT EARLIER Leo orbed in, feeling completely defeated but when he opened his eyes again, he realized there was danger ahead. This birth was going to be complicated. "What's going on?" "About time you came," Piper demanded sweating. "Chris just has to be stubborn already. God!" "Piper, calm down. Everything is going to be okay," Phoebe spoke to her while Paige rubbed her older sister's back. The middle sister turned to her brother-in-law. "Leo, either you'll help us or stay out of the way." Victor came into view, with water and towels. "Leo?" he asked surprised. "Where have you been? We've been waiting for you since ages. Piper's in labor for God's sake!" "Sorry," the man apologized, going through his hair. "I thought the Elders could help but obviously we're on our own." Sudden orbs distracted Leo. "Wyatt?" "Iss," the boy only offered before orbing to his Mommy and aunts, knowing his Mommy needed him more right now. "I'm going to the attic. Just call me if you need me." Immediately Leo orbed away. Victor sighed and joined his family, helping his daughter in any way he could. "Okay, Piper, just keep breathing! Chris will come out. Just breath and push!" "Funny. What do you think I'm doing here?" the woman requested mad. "God, Chris must have a big head!" "Piper, slow breaths! You don't want to scare Wyatt, do you?" Paige said, speaking with her sister in a soothing voice. She could see how Wyatt seemed to get upset slowly. "Just breath!" "You don't know what I'm going through here!" The other three adults shared a look but said nothing. They just helped their sister and daughter, and little Wyatt. It seemed Piper's temper just came out when she was mad. SHORT CUT TO KIRA'S LAIRThe Seer didn't know what to do. The task Zankou had given her was weird in her eyes. It was true she had helped him in this time, yet was it her right to change her own destiny? It seemed Zankou had not been the only one who'd learned from Chris. Kira paced now around her pool. "Ahem," said a voice to get the woman's attention. She turned around. "I would need some information, please." Kira raised an eyebrow at her visitor. "That's kinda unexpected, you know. Thought you had learned but obviously not. What do you want to know?" "Just show me the near future of the Halliwells and I'll leave." The Seer made it happen and the visitor was quiet during the play before promptly going away. "Thank you, Kira." "You're welcome but I need some time to think still, so back off!" Again Kira paced, thinking about the whole situation but still didn't find a solution for herself. Now only time could help her – obviously. Time to speak with her own pool. OLD FUTURE, 2026"No!" Wyatt jumped up angrily and started to pace. A habit of his Mom he'd inherited. "No! Chris is not going to die because of me! This is not fair! After everything I've done to him!" A loud rumble startled father and son, making Leo walk to his son. "What the …?" he started and grabbed his eldest by the arms. "Listen, Wyatt. I know Chris had accepted his fate and so should you." "No!" Wyatt freed himself of his father's grip. "Chris is my little brother and a sacrifice too much! I can't live without him. Never!" "Shsh, Wyatt." Leo tried to sooth his boy but knew it'd fall on deaf ears. Another rumble went down and thunder was heard. "What the hell is going on here?" Wyatt sniffled. "Maybe Chris had defeated Gideon meanwhile?" He looked at his Dad with hope. "Maybe that's why our world is changing. Gideon's gone already and we won't exist anymore." Leo considered this and then nodded. "At least baby Chris will grow up in a happier future. You both. The future I always dreamed of both of you having. One where also your mother would be alive." Wyatt wiped his tears away. "Yeah. My little brother is the new hero of the world. Hope to remember this when my little self is grown up. I won't never forget about this sacrifice." An even louder thunder and rumble went through the city and the nearly destroyed San Francisco started to disappear. Father and son ran to the attic's window and watched his whole disintegration a bit fascinated but also happily. All would be gone soon, all of it and all of them. Some ghosts appeared behind them, whistling and startling the men. Shocked they turned around. "It's okay," one woman said and the younger man ran to her, hugging her. "I always knew my baby would succeed. And now it's time for us to vanish and let Chris create a new future." "Mom," Wyatt said relieved. "I'm glad you're here. That you'll help us in that event." Now he could let his tears out and was happy to have his whole family here. Leo smiled at his wife sadly. He knew how it would end but not that at that sacrifice. Chris was as much his baby as Piper's. And now? Their present changed and all would be better then. He embraced his wife and son and with a last rumble and thunder, this future was gone. MANOR, ATTIC – 2004, NOV 16When Leo orbed in, he only saw destruction and smelt blood, making him feel sick. Still, the Elder noticed Excalibur lying on the floor, next to a bloody hand. "Oh my God!" he exclaimed shocked and ran to his boy, taking him in his arms. "Chris, can you hear me?" "Dad?" the young man asked slowly. "What are you doing here?" A cough. "Shouldn't you be with Mom?" "Let me first worry about you," Leo said determined, kissing his son on the head. "Besides, I'd feel it if your Mom needs me. Now you are my first priority. We need to come clean." "But we are already, Dad," Chris said, paling even more with every word. "Never mind. The advice you gave me was helpful." He smirked a bit. "Excalibur is a good weapon." "I know," the father whispered before coming back to his senses. He held his hands over the wound, full knowing it'd be in vain and only Gideon could have helped here. "Damn him!" he cursed loudly. "Dad! Stop please," Chris begged coughing and pushed his father's hands away. "Gideon's gone. I killed him. The future has changed now and you'll have to concentrate on baby me." "But Chris, I can't lose you, not when I've just got to know you," Leo yelled, causing his son to look at him incredulously. He couldn't hide his tears anymore. "Sorry. It's just … just too much. Chris, you're my baby boy." Chris chuckled softly and coughed more and more. "Yeah, I know and Mom's peanut. Dad, please. You'll have to let me go and take care of little me." His coughing increased. "You have to promise me something." "Anything, buddy." Chris shivered, knowing his end was near. He had to act quickly. "Listen, Dad. Always protect Mom and your family. The family always has to come first, you know." He coughed more and more. "Dad, there's a letter. Grandpa …" Leo nodded briefly. "Anything else?" But Chris saw someone else in the attic. What scared him a bit. "Aunt Prue?" he whispered. "Why are you here?" She shook her head. "What?" "Chris, who do you see?" Leo asked concerned and felt the cold on his son's skin. "Chris?" "Dad," the young whitelighter whispered. "Just know I love you all and you … Love you, Dad." He shivered a last time and his breathing stopped. Chris Halliwell was dead. "No, Chris. No, don't go." Leo shook the lifeless body and tried in vain to rouse his son again. Totally in vain. "I love you too, Chris." Anger and fury bubbled inside him. He just felt empty. Silence ruled the attic and Leo held onto his son's body for dear life. The Elder didn't know how to feel … until a scream echoed through the house. It was Piper's. Immediately Leo lay the body down which vanished then and the father ran down to his wife. With fear for his baby. LIVING ROOMPiper's cries echoed through the whole house. "Damn, where's Leo? He should be here! I don't want him to miss Chris' birth. Ow!" "Shsh, Piper," Phoebe tried to sooth her big sister and shared a concerned look with her father and little sister. "Everything will be fine at the end, you'll see. You'll be a much happier woman. Think of your baby!" "Iss," put Wyatt knowingly in and was ruffled by his Grandpa. "Paige, can you go and get Leo, please," Victor suggested while looking after Piper as well. "The baby's coming. Only you have to push more!" That earned him a glare. "Paige!" She chuckled softly and went to the stairs but stopped half way as the wanted man came down running. "Leo, are you alright? What happened?" Paige asked shocked at seeing her brother-in-law very pale. However, Victor and Phoebe seemed to stare at something not seen. Piper as well. That irritated the other three and Leo shook his wife slightly, hoping to bring her back. Paige and little Wyatt did the same with Phoebe and Victor. Their attempt seemed to have an effect on all of them. "What's going on?" Piper asked annoyed but then. "Leo? Where's my baby? Where's Chris?" "Later, honey. But now we should concentrate on bringing Chris to the world," Leo assured her, rubbing her back. "What have you guys seen, by the way?" "A shadow, I think," Victor replied confused and hoped his daughter would confirm this … weird thing. "Right, Pheebs?" "Yeah, I think it was our own shadow," the middle sister said and indicated to the basement, like in trance. "Anyway, Leo's right. We should concentrate on our baby nephew." "ISS!" Wyatt insisted loudly and stomped his feet angrily. "Right." Leo spoke and the rest of them gathered around Piper who now pushed as hard as she could. She had to repeat this several times before a loud scream wailed through the house. "Oh, my baby," Piper said and wanted to hold her little baby only. "Hey Chrissie, welcome to the world." She turned to her older son. "Here Wyatt, your baby brother. Chris." "Iss," the little tyke smiled happily and touched the baby carefully. "Iss." Leo looked at his wife and two sons proudly, seeing how baby Chris looked at anyone curiously and gurgling. Leo was torn between mourning and enjoying. Still, he hadn't forgotten what Chris had said before he'd died. The Elder looked briefly at his father-in-law. Victor read Leo's look right. "There's a letter of Chris, you know," he whispered quietly and gave it over unseen. His son-in-law hid it quickly. "C'mon, Piper, give Leo once his baby boy." Piper did as told and the baby came to his Daddy. Leo gazed at his son lovingly. Phoebe held Wyatt and Paige could only smile while Victor did it too. A happy family – with one little flaw. Above them, two ghosts were looking down on them. Prue held Chris' hand lovingly while the young man cried softly. It was over and all would live in a better future. The one he'd created. As the two of them finally left the house, they closed the Manor's door – with their telekinesis. THE END – FOR NOW?
Okay, this is it for the moment. The sequel "Upcoming Shadows" will follow either tomorrow (Friday) or Saturday. Depending on my spare time! Still got other things to do as well.
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Post by Tim on Sept 2, 2016 23:38:43 GMT -5
Nice to see another of your excellent stories here, Jana.
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