A Question of Power - Sequel to Upcoming Shadows

[Tim]

Written by Jana AKA WyattChris and copied here by me.

Summary: A new babysitter named Billie Jenkins steps into the Halliwell family. The young woman seems nice but she has some secrets. Dark secrets. Are the Halliwells going to survive?

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1. A Meeting of Sisters

A few weeks later Dumain stood in front of an university. Christy's sister was studying here and it was time that the two sisters meet. He sighed and hoped this meeting would go well. A lot depended on it. "Christy, time to go in," he only offered and went ahead.

The older Jenkins sister followed her teacher and best friend to the mansion. She was eager to see her younger sister Billie again. It'd been such a long time since they were separated. What changes they may have gone through?

"Focus Christy," Dumain got her attention. "You were raised well by us and you've got your aim in mind. This plan has been going on for 15 years and now it's time."

"I know, and I can't wait to see her again. The plan is fool-proof, I'm sure," Christy replied smiling. "Are we there?"

"Yes." They stopped in front of a door. Dumain turned to her. "Don't tell her too much in the beginning. You should get to know each other first. We need to get her slowly to our plan. You understand?"

Christy nodded eagerly and walked past Dumain to knock at the door. A young woman opened and was shocked. She stumbled back in disbelief. "Billie?" the older sister asked carefully. "It's okay. We're here to talk only. Do you have time?"

Billie Jenkins just nodded and let the two in. She was confused but happy to have her older sister back. "What's going on and what are you doing here? Who's he, by the way?"

Christy grinned suddenly. "I see you haven't changed a bit. Always asking questions." Then she became serious. "He's an old friend of us named Dumain. You may remember him if you think long about it." She looked at her sister closely. "We're here to make you an interesting offer."

"What do you mean?" Billie switched her gaze curiously between her sister and this Dumain.

Dumain took over speaking. "You see, Billie, you and Christy are special, very special. Your magical destiny is huge and you need to be prepared. And when it's time for you to step in, we'll give you a sign."

"A SMS or what?"

Dumain's look said everything. "We'll find a way to let you know. But now it's time for you two to catch up, alright?"

And, indeed, the two sisters began to chat away what caused the demon to roll his eyes. Typical women! As he was about to shimmer away, Dumain nearly forgot he'd walked in and so he needed to do the same! He had another order—which led him to a nanny. Wonderful!

---

THE MAGICAL WORLD

The elf nanny was packing her things, though she was ruly working for the Halliwells temporarily now. Piper's kids were not too stremous but with having powers, let's just say, it was getting harder.

A tall man appeared behind her. "Hi, I'm sorry to disturb you," he apologized quite firmly. "My name's Dumain and I've heard you're working for the Halliwells here and there."

The elf raised a skeptical eyebrow. "You are very well informed, Dumain, and so I wonder," she crossed her arms over her chest. "What do you want?"

"Well," Dumain began slowly and knelt down to the nanny's level. "You see the Halliwells are only selfish and Piper's kids will be the same." As she was about to protest, he continued quickly, "I know and have heard about the great hero, Chris Halliwell, yet what for?"

"The Halliwells are selfish?" The elf nanny began to corner him. "You're certainly not up to date, eh? All they ever did was to protect the Innocents and their family. I guess I know why you're here. You want to turn meagainst them."

The man grinned all of a sudden. "You are quite good, I have to admit." Then he grabbed her by the neck hard. "I want you to quit your position at the Halliwells---for good! You got it? There's someone out there who can take it. Are we clear?"

"Sure," the nanny stuttered afraid. "Sure, no problem. Go ahead! But I should let the Halliwells know this."

Dumain let her go. "That you should indeed. And when you're done, give a sign. I'll know then, believe me."

The elf nanny could only nod and swallow hard. She should take this threat seriously and could be killed easily. If she should ask for help? The nanny didn't know.

Dumain shimmered away, leaving the elf alone. It'd go as wanted and planned. He needed to go, anyway. His daily report was due to his Masters.

---

AT THE MANOR

Chris and Wyatt were in their playpen, playing together whereas Piper and Leo starred open mouthed at the elf nanny. Okay, they didn't use as often as before but now she wanted to quit? It was kinda extreme, so to speak.

"I'm sorry," the elf apologized in tears. "But your boys are too strong for me and I can't handle it anymore."

Leo sighed and looked at her directly. "I don't understand. We barely used you lately. It doesn't make sense. Really."

"I know, but it's for the best, believe me." The elf nanny looked away. Her gaze went to the kids and some silent tears run over her cheeks. "I'm just sorry, I think."

"What has gotten into you?" Piper wanted to know in shock. "You aren't in danger, are you? Please, tell us. We might be able to help you."

The elf nanny shook her head immediately. "You can't. And for me, it's impossible to do so. Just.....just accept it and we'll have peace."

Leo and Piper shared a look before nodding. "It's okay," the father said calmly. "You can go now. We wish you all the best for the future though."

"The same to you." The elf nanny stood up and quickly went away before anyone could see her tears. The Halliwells were so nice but she really had no other choice.

Again the parents shared an incredulous look. Something big was going on here and they intended to find out! But both Piper and Leo let their nanny go. Now they were in need to find a new babysitter for the boys who would need to have special qualities and could unite both worlds.

"So what are we doing now, Leo?" Piper wanted to know nervously. "We're in need of a nanny, because we can't give them to my Dad all the time. He might get a job."

"I know," Leo admitted sadly. "And Magic School is only a part of it. The magical one, but as you said, the boys need both sides." He looked at his wife directly. "We can't place an ad in the paper with these qualities, now can we? We'd risk exposure."

"True." Piper sighed very dramatically. "Maybe we should ask Phoebe for help. After all, she works at a paper."

"Alright, let's wait for her." Suddenly he had an idea. "How about we play with our little sunshines meanwhile?"

Piper giggled and took Leo's hand, guiding him to the playpen. As if the boys could read their minds, Wyatt and Chris promptly orbed away. And this, ladies and gentlemen, was the day when orb-and-seek was invented.

Later that day the parents were simply exhausted. And so Paige and Phoebe found them when they returned home.

---

SOME DAYS LATER

Dumain was back at university, this time with a newspaper under his arm. Christy had yet to return which meant the two blonde sisters were still talking. He sighed. Typical women! But now, all went like planned. Time to let Billie in.

As he entered their room, Dumain froze. Christy and Billie were really still talking. "Okay, time out! Time for action now."

"What do you mean?" Billie asked surprised. "What's going on?"

"Well, my dear Billie, I've got the elf nanny to quit at the Halliwells...."

"Wait. The Charmed Ones?"

Dumain rolled his eyes. "Yes. Them. Anyway," he continued his speech, "….and now you should prepare yourself to go to them. As their new babysitter."

"What?" Billie and Christy shared an incredulous look.

Again the demon rolled his eyes. Great, who, in God's name, had the Triad chosen? "They don't know you, and so you can step in easily," Dumain explained calmly.

"Oh I see, I think," Billie said confused but accepted it finally. "When do I start?"

"Soon." Dumain held the paper out. "Piper's placed an ad and you need to go there, Billie. I'll take care of the other......interested people." He rubbed his hands in glee. "The Charmed One may not say it openly but she'll accept only a witch to watch her kids."

"And the great goal behind it?" Christy now wanted to know curiously. "Are we after the Charmed Ones or their offspring?"

Dumain cleared his throat nervously. "Well, that's still under discussion but we'll let you know right on time. So, go ahead, Billie?"

The younger Jenkins sister nodded and went straight to the Manor whereas the older sister and her mentor grinned. One step closer to the great plan and now it'd work. One generation would definitely be lost!!

---

AT THE MANOR

Leo and Piper were slowly getting frustrated. They couldn't find a suitable nanny for their kids, though Wyatt and Chris behaved quite well today. Still, a nagging feeling remained in both their heads and thoughts.

"I don't understand," the mother said quietly after some time. "It's as if there's a big conspiracy going on and we're in, though with no idea of which role."

Leo raised an eyebrow. "Interesting theory, really," the father said sighing. "But who's started it and how long has this been going on already? That'd be my questions."

Before Piper could answer, Paige stormed in happily. "Good news. There's another one. A young student at the local university. Can she come in?" The youngest Charmed One looked around. "Where's Phoebe, by the way?"

"Looking for her Cupido, maybe?" Piper said shrugging. "Anyway, show us this young student! We have nothing to lose anymore." She sighed.

Leo agreed nodding and Paige walked briefly to the door, coming back with a blonde teenager who lived to her cliché, it seemed.

"Hey, my name's Billie Jenkins and I'm a student here. Looking for a job as well at the moment and being a babysitter would help my social skills." The younger Jenkins sister smiled the whole time and hoped to get the job, like wanted. "I'd like to start fast if you don't mind."

Leo wasn't so sure. "You'll have to know that our boys are very special. This whole family. So I want to know how you stand to Wicca, in general." He had to be careful here. Not anyone knew about witches.

Billie swallowed hard. How should she explain this? "Well," she began nervously. "I've heard about it and I just found out that I'm a witch." All looked up shocked. "Yeah, only recently, I swear."

Paige then piped up curiously. "I take it that you've heard about the Charmed Ones, the Halliwells. That'd be us." She gestured to her nephews. "And this is our next generation, Wyatt and Chris Halliwell. Aren't they cute?"

"Paige!" Piper scolded smiling. "You already sound like Phoebe." Her youngest sister stuck her tongue out. "Very mature."

Leo decided to step in since they still had to make a decision, or to be honest, the kids should. He cleared his throat. "Well, Billie," he started smiling. "It seems you're accepted but important is for me, us that the boys like you. Would you please go to them and we'll see their reaction, okay?"

Billie became even more nervous and slowly walked to the playpen where the boys were in. Wyatt took Chris's small hand and led him to the bars, still Chris had an uneasy feeling about this stranger. The younger boy would hide it since all seemed to like her, but his older brother had sensed something.

"You nice," Wyatt spoke quietly. "But Kwis kinda afraid, y'know."

Billie knelt down and smiled at Wyatt and Chris. "I understand, boys. I'd have done the same. Can I come then?"

The brothers nodded slightly and the family behind the young witch sighed in relief. A new babysitter was found, though it was rather quick.

"It seems you can," Piper said happily. "But it'd be good if you start firstly in two days. We have to clear something. Okay?"

Paige and Leo shared a look but Billie accepted quickly. "That's fine with me. I'll be there," she offered smiling. "But now I need to go back to my studies." And she was gone such as quickly.

"Well, that was awkward," Paige commented dryly. "So, where's Phoebe, again?"

Leo rolled his eyes. "We have no idea. Either she's at work or really looking for her cupido. Why are you at home, Paige? No new charge yet?"

Paige crossed her arms over the chest. "No, the Elders are quiet at the moment which is strange. And the others have found their way meanwhile." Then she turned around. "I'm going to look for Phoebe." She orbed away.

"Wow, what an exit!" Piper commented wryly. Then she looked at her boys and turned to her husband. "Why was Chris so afraid of Billie? He hesitated at first, you saw?"

"Yeah, I've noticed but I think Wyatt would be the best to find out. They're so close." Leo sighed and kissed his wife briefly. "If you don't mind, I'm going to see if our Shadow is still there."

Piper nodded and Leo went to the basement. The eldest sister then watched her boys playing. Still, she wondered what Chris had sensed before---with Billie. It already seemed that her baby boy was more sensitive than his big brother. Could be, because Leo had been an Elder this time. Just like with Excalibur.

Piper sighed and waited for anyone's return.

---

WITH BILLIE

The young witch raced back to the university where her sister and Dumain were waiting, as expected. She grinned knowingly. "Yeah, I'm in. I'm the kids' babysitter, though Chris doesn't like me, I think."

"What makes you say that?" Dumain wanted to know curiously. If anything went wrong, the Triad would kill him—in more than one way. "Chris is the younger son of Piper, right?"

Billie looked at Christy confused. "Yeah. Why?"

"Because there were rumors about a young man who travelled back in time, to change fate. In the end, he succeeded but died." Dumain watched both sisters and waited for their reaction. "The rumor said it was Chris."

"WHAT?" they shouted in shock. "That's impossible!"

Dumain rolled his eyes. "It is. But go further and don't get distracted. Let us regularly know what you've found out, okay?"

Billie nodded. "What about you and Christy?"

"We'll stay in contact. Don't worry." Dumain and Christy shimmered away, leaving the younger sister alone.

Billie sighed and decided to go back to her studies. After all, she had to learn here.

---

MANOR, BASEMENT

Leo sneaked quietly through the door and whispered into the darkness. "Shadow? Shadow? Are you back?"

A little 'miaow' caught his attention. "Oh cat, did we forget you? I'm so sorry and the boys will be happy to have you back as well," the man apologized sadly. "And we even didn't name you, eh?"

Still, there was nothing but silence in the basement. The Shadow seemed to be gone—for good. Leo was sad. "Shadow, if you can hear me, please return to us. We need you, especially Chris. Something big is going on here, again!"

Half an hour later, particles slowly began to form in front of Leo. They formed into the Shadow who smiled at him. "Ah Leo, good to see you and to be back." He stretched a bit. "What's going on?"

Leo sat down on the steps, with the kitten in his arms, and told the Shadow all he knew. From Zankou and also Chris's strange feeling about Billie. As well as Piper's feeling about this being a conspiracy.

The Shadow just listened and nodded from time to time, taking all in. Though he was not surprised that the Triad was back. They always returned, like him.

"What do you think?" Leo wanted to know, stroking the cat lovingly which purred softly.

"Well, I intend to agree with your wife, man," the Shadow said sighing. "We'd need someone to find out more. I think, Kira would help here."

"You think?" Leo asked shocked but then again. "Maybe you're right, and she was a Seer and demon before. Great idea."

The Shadow smirked, and so he and the mortal caught up on everything what had happened recently. It was quite a lot.

---

PHOEBE & COOP....+ PAIGE

The middle Charmed One was happy. She'd found the Cupido again and this time, he was eager to speak with her. It was a dream come true. Now she could start her own future!

"Phoebe, why are you here and not with your family?" Coop wanted to know curiously. "I don't understand you."

"Well," she began blushing. "You said you'd come back to me this year but I thought I'd do the first step. After all, you're a cupido."

"I am, but the Elders.......?" An orb distracted him. It was Phoebe's sister, Paige. "Paige, I'm glad you're here. Why are you?"

"Trouble at home, I think," she replied grinning. She looked at her older sister. "Phoebe, you're needed there. Coming?"

"Sure. What's going on?" the middle sister asked confused.

"The elf nanny had quitted and so we have a new babysitter, a blonde student named Billie Jenkins who also happened to be a witch. Got it?" Paige explained quickly. "So?"

"Oh....okay," Phoebe drolled out slowly. She let go of Coop's hand. "We'll see us soon again, Coop. I promise." She turned to her baby sister. "Let's go!"

Paige nodded and waved good-bye to Coop. In the next seconds, both Charmed Ones were gone.

Coop sighed, went with his hand through his hair and wondered what was going on—at the Manor and in the magical world. But something definitely was what was obviously clear. Well, he'd find out.

TBC..........

---

Comments are welcomed for this first chapter. I'd be really happy to know what you think of it.

COMMENTS ANYONE?

P.S.: If you're nice, I could update next week again.

[Tim]

2. Theories & Prophecies

THE NEXT DAY

Leo stretched a bit in the morning as he entered the kitchen where his wife was already working. He smiled at the picture and was kinda relieved that the Shadow was back at the Manor. "Where are the boys?" he wanted to know curiously.

"Still sleeping, I hope," Piper answered annoyed. "Their powers are good but the house..... . But good is that they're with you today. What makes you so happy, by the way?"

"Nothing ordinary," he replied, kissing her on the lips. "If you don't mind, I'm going to wake the boys." There were two sets of orbs. "Never mind." The father grinned at his sons who smiled back.

Piper rolled her eyes and shook her head smiling. "Boys! What did I say about using powers for everything? It's a no go." But then again. "Hungry?"

Wyatt and Chris quickly nodded and their mother put their food in front of them. The meal was eaten rather fast since Magic School was more interesting than the normal life.

"Piper!" Leo cut in smiling. "They're young, too young, to understand this. It'll take more time of us. It's natural for these mistakes."

The Charmed One said nothing but her face sold her out. The kids were happy again, now that their little kitty was back but Chris had also sensed another familiar presence in the house, again.

"'adow," the little boy announced proudly and all turned to him shocked, except his Daddy. "'adow."

"Yeah," Wyatt added. "And our little cat is back. So good."

"Leo?" Piper asked dryly. "What's going on in the house? Cliff note version, please."

The man cleared his throat amused. "Well, it looks like the kids' cat is back which was hidden under some boxes in the basement." The next bomb followed. "And the Shadow has survived the battle with Zankou and it's back in its old place."

"Oh." Piper was stunned but also relieved. "So it can help us again to defeat evil. And of course, its connection to Chris. That's good."

Leo smiled and thumbed at his kids. "Anyway, what's with your theory about a magical conspiracy?" He didn't offer how right she was—with the Triad and all.

"I'm working on that and I'm sure, Phoebe and Paige will help me, along with our friends." She stopped suddenly and turned to her husband. "Unless you know something I don't. Any ideas?"

"Give me some time to prove my own theory," Leo offered and then took his kids by their hands. "I'm going to Magic School now. Just tell me if you found anything, okay?" And Leo was gone in the next minutes.

Piper sighed and decided to check on her club P3 again. Her Dad would also like to be updated on some events—as well as their friends. She'd like to meet them again though.

---

MEANWHILE – BAY MIRROR

Phoebe was working again and the letters were intense now. Plus, Elise wanted to see new photos of her nephews. Great! Piper was going to kill her if she continued this way.

"Phoebe! Good to have you back. How's life?" her editor greeted the middle sister smiling. "But more important for me: Do you have any new photos of your little nephews?"

Phoebe groaned immediately. "Well, I think I'm in love myself, and for your information, my sister will kill me if I take even more photos of my little nephews. So, how's your life, Elise?"

"Oh. You're in love, that's good. It may help you with your own column." Elise smiled at her advicer. "Anyway, my life has been good and there's someone out there, you know."

"I see." Phoebe giggled and knew both women had a lot to talk about.

Elise saw that and closed the door abruptly. The older woman sat down on the couch and both women chatted away like there was no tomorrow.

---

IN THE CITY

Paige wandered through the city, window shopping and held her bag close by. Sighing, the youngest sister realized that Phoebe had found her love with Coop but what's with her? She wanted a man for herself. Piper had Leo, and her kids, Phoebe Coop. Only she was alone.

A young man grabbed her bag and ran away, only to be stopped by another man. "Hey," he greeted her smiling. "Did he want to steal your bag? Well, he's known for that. My name's Henry Mitchell, by the way."

Paige crossed her arms over the chest annoyed. "Well, Mr Mitchell, thank you. And have you known he'd be here? I mean, is there anything I need to know?"

Henry laughed. "That's easy. He's one of my parolees since I'm his parole officer. And our little friend here missed his last deadline, so I knew what he'd do instead."

Paige smiled. "Interesting, very interesting. Good start for meeting a woman too, don't you think?"

Henry grinned in the same way. "You could think that. Anyway, if you don't mind, Ms …."

"Matthews, Paige Matthews."

"As I was saying, Ms Matthews, if you don't mind, I'd like to bring our little friend here to his cell and then we could meet again. For a coffee, or by accident, of course." Henry was nervous but this woman in front of him had something special in her.

"We will see, Mr Mitchell, we will see." Paige was amused. This guy had something. She could like him, maybe. It depended on how it started and went on. The youngest sister returned to her window shopping.

---

MAGIC SCHOOL

Hoping that his kids behaved, Leo was already working on his own office and on some papers. It never ended but he was saved by a knock on the door. "Come in," he answered.

"Hi Mr Wyatt, I've found the prophecy finally I spoke about last time we met," Eddie Mullen greeted his new school leader. "Remember?"

Leo was confused for a second but then it clicked. "Eddie?" His opposite nodded. "Wow, long time, no see. Anyway, this prophecy you mentioned?"

"Yeah, took me a long time actually." Eddie held up an old scroll. "Really strange to read, I admit. Listen: Born Charmed & Angel wite,
Two Brothers shall unite
The magical realm.
Once turn by morals
In another time
Now together for the fight.

Silence. Leo was in a total shock. "Can you tell me how old this prophecy is, maybe?" he stuttered out. It was all there but how could this be? Male witches are still very rare! So the age was important.

Eddie turned the scroll several times around. "Well," he offered slowly. "It's not clearly written but there's a '1690' on the scroll and a very faint 'M.W.'. What does that mean, Mr Wyatt?"

"That I'm going to summon some of my family's ancestors," the father said determined. "And that might include the mysterious M.W., believe me."

"Oh. Okay." Eddie scratched his head. "Anyway, how are the boys doing? Where are Wyatt and Chris?"

"Kids' section, here at the school where they can practise their powers. You know where it is, don't you? Because I have something very important to work on." Leo smiled at him. "It's going to be okay, Eddie. Welcome back once more!"

Eddie Mullen nodded and ran to the mentioned section while Leo walked to the library, looked for some very old tomes and returned to his office. To find more information about the Triad and their plan.

---

MANOR/ P3

Piper couldn't think straight anymore. Her books didn't help her in her theories. Who could conspire against them? It had to be demonic, that's for sure. She needed an outsider who may help her and so she took the phone.

"Hey Dad, it's me. Could we meet at P3? I need someone neutral to speak about something?" Piper asked in the speaker.

Her father's answer seemed to please her. "That's great, Daddy. Yeah, the boys are fine and they're with Leo today." She rolled her eyes unseen. "Yeah, at P3. In half an hour? Okay, be there. Bye Dad!"

Placing the speaker back on the phone, Piper sighed and hoped her Dad could help her with these theories since he liked to think about those himself. When it comes to politics, of course. The clock was ticking and so she had to hurry to her own club!

Quickly driving to the club, Piper wondered if her father was already there. He was, and so she excused herself smiling. "Hey Daddy. How long have you been waiting here?" She kissed on his cheek in greeting and lovingly.

"Hi Piper," Victor greeted and kissed her back. "Not that long since you gave me a key some time ago. Never mind, what's going on, honey? Any trouble?"

"Not yet, I think," Piper replied sitting down. "I know that you're not fond of our wiccan life and all but I need an outsider for some theories if it's okay with you."

Her father nodded eagerly. "Sure, go ahead. I mean, good and bad do exist for some reason. If some big bad is going to come after my girls, I can do anything to help you. What's your theory then?"

Piper sighed. "Don't be mad at me, Dad but we have a new babysitter since our elf nanny has quitted recently. But......"

"Wait. You had an elf, taking care of the boys?" Victor asked hurt. "Mmh, great. What has happened recently after the elf quitted?"

Piper rolled her eyes. "I'm sorry, Dad. Okay? It's just......We hired a young female student named Billie Jenkins who Chris was afraid of, somehow. We all noticed this and started to ask if she was a pawn in a big game, maybe. That's why we came up with theories."

"Alright, that's the base." Victor looked at his eldest daughter. "Now tell me what your theory is, Piper. I won't bite."

A laugh. "I know, Dad. Well, I think it has to be a big old foe of us who wants us dead. And now the kids too, obviously. But who could this be?"

"Have you made a list? Would be helpful," Victor offered wisely, looking at his daughter.

"Well, most of them are dead—for a long time already." She stopped all of a sudden. Thinking, Piper turned to her father, "Unless.....they're able to come back alone. And with that they must be really powerful and also know us well already."

"Does that ring any bell?" Victor was also getting curious slowly. This was interesting for him since this whole wiccan thing had so many facettes.

"The only ones I remember who could do that are the Triad which Cole had killed ages ago. How and why are they back?" Piper was confused and wondered what was going on, again.

Little did she know that her husband was already working on that at Magic School while Piper and her Dad made everything ready for the band and club.

---

MAGIC SCHOOL

Eddie had fun with the Halliwell kids and it was good that they had their powers. Though Chris was not as strong as Wyatt yet but they'd grow still. Like them! Eddie Mullen would like to see this. Maybe he should ask Piper and Leo for this privilege.

Meanwhile Leo was still over his books and he was getting desperate. He only had the infos, given by Zankou, and that meant it'd been planned for years! Long before his wife and her sisters knew they were charmed. So what was going on?

"Ah, Mr Wyatt, I've found some papers about some 'Power' theories," Ben announced proudly by knocking at the door. "It was by accident, of course."

"That's okay," Leo said, looking up. "What did you find?"

"Here." Ben held out an old paper, with some charts on it. "As you can see, there are levels of powers noted. The highest one are the 'Power of Three' and the 'Ultimate Power'. What is 'ultimate' here?"

"No idea, Ben, but I intend to find out more. It could be a threat for the family," Leo explained in a calm tone. "And if the 'Power of Three' is human, so could be the 'Ultimate' one."

Ben gasped shocked. "Wait. You're not saying that if this power is your wife and her sisters, the other one could be sisters as well?" Leo nodded. "Wow. I guess this means we're going to look for those, right?"

"Indeed," Leo agreed nodding. "But not only in the magical world but also in the human one. Especially there, I mean, the other sisters could have gotten their powers just recently."

Ben seemed to take notes. "Alright. Would you like me to search for them? If I'm allowed to, of course since I look like an all-time student, don't you think?" Laughter was heard. "What?"

"Nothing," Leo replied, still smirking. "But it sounds like a good plan, so you're allowed to go." He then turned serious. "Be careful. You know the rules."

Ben nodded and walked away, leaving Leo alone. The school master wondered though what his children were doing—with Eddie and in general. Time to find out! Leo stood up and went to his boys.

---

SAME PLACE, OTHER ROOM

The fun Eddie had was gone the moment, the boys realized, which they quickly did, that their 'older' friend had powers as well, both young Halliwells teamed up fast and so Eddie was trapped.

As soon as Eddie noticed this, he became nervous and began to stutter, "Hey boys, what are you doing? What's going on?"

All Eddie could see was orbs, orbs, and orbs, and he swore to have felt their little attempts of telekinesis. Still, he landed on his ass just as Leo entered the room. "Mr Wyatt, I can explain!"

But Leo only laughed. Loudly. "Oh, I'm sure you can but I can assure you it'd happened to me before as well. And also other students here. So, it's normal by now."

"Okay," Eddie agreed slowly and stood up. "And what now?"

"I'd like to play with them. I missed them today." Leo sat down to his boys and began to play with them. His youngest son orbed into his Daddy's lap and snuggled close to him.

Eddie sighed and decided to follow Leo's example.

---

BAY MIRROR, PHOEBE'S OFFICE

The boss and her advicer were still chatting about all and nothing but most of all, little and big men. Their colleagues outside wondered what these two women were talking about. Obviously, it was a lot.

"So Phoebe, tell me, are there any new men in your life? I mean, you've been alone for some time by now," Elise wanted to know curiously. She leaned forward to hang on the woman's lips.

Phoebe blushed immediately. "Well," she began nervously. "There might be one. Tall, good looking and pure love."

"Oh, that's great. When do I meet him?"

"I can't promise anything yet since I haven't seen him for some time," Phoebe admitted, still blushing. "We will see, Elise. We will see."

"Alright then. Let's go back to work before the others think we're lacking." Elise stood up and walked to the door. "It was nice talking to you. And now back to work!"

"Yes, M'am." Phoebe saluted smiling and picked a letter up, reading it and typing her answer on the PC.

Elise smiled and went back to her own office.

---

A FEW DAYS LATER

Paige was in the city again. To meet this omninous Henry Mitchell. She'd agreed to a date immediately when he called and well, it had clicked—even over the phone.

"Paige, nice to see you again," Henry greeted her grinning. "What made you change your mind, by the way?"

"My secret—for now," Paige said mysteriously. "But now I'd like to eat and get to know you, Mr Mitchell."

"Henry. And agreed." He called for a table for two and both sat down, waiting for the waitress. After they ordered their meal and chatted away, the world seem to disappear for them. It seemed that they have clicked from the first look.

Unnoticed by either of them, Coop was watching them. Another good job done!

TBC....

---

So this is New Year's present. Can't promise yet exactly when I'm going to update again but as soon as possible.

COMMENTS ANYONE?

P.S. The prophecy is made of my own mind. lol

[Tim]

Another great update, Jana. The cat lover in me likes Shadow!

HAPPY NEW YEAR

[Tim]

To Tim: Thanks for that comment and here's a new chapter for you!

---

3. New men for the house

A FEW DAYS LATER

"Piper, we need to talk," Phoebe said to her older sister while Paige followed her with the same intention. "It's important, really."

"What is it about?" Piper wanted to know while she walked through the kitchen. Her men were still upstairs while she prepared their breakfast. "I'm going to speak with Kira this afternoon."

"Oh, okay." Paige sighed and looked at Phoebe for help. "You see we want to introduce someone to you, Leo and the boys."

Piper grinned suddenly. "Your new boyfriends?" Both her younger sisters blushed. "That's wonderful. I'm sure my boys will like them. When will they come to us?"

"Um," Phoebe began nervously. "We haven't asked them yet but we'll let you know when it happens." Then she realized what her sister had said. "Why do you meet Kira?"

"Just some theories I need to speak with her." The breakfast was ready and so Piper yelled out loud, "Leo, boys! Breakfast!"

Two orb clouds, along with a bigger one, formed and it was, indeed, Leo and his sons. "Finally," the man of the house said determined. "So, what's going on at the moment?"

"Well," Phoebe began again. "Paige and I have found new men and you're going to meet them one day. Soon."

"That's great," Leo insisted happily and the boys clapped their hands in delight. "See. Anyway, Piper, what are you doing?"

"I'm going over to Kira. There's something I need to speak with her about," Piper explained while feeding Chris. "What are you doing, my man?"

"No idea yet. Maybe I'm taking the boys to Victor or the playground," Leo said and began to eat while helping Wyatt with his meal.

"Sounds like a plan for all of us," Piper agreed and all began their breakfast. It was eaten in rather silence.

Soon all four adults, one along with the kids, went their separated ways and all in different directions. Ironic, isn't it?

---

PHOEBE & COOP

The middle sister went into her own office at the Bay Mirror and locked herself in, hoping to keep anyone out. Taking a deep breath, she called out for her own Cupido, "Coop! Coop! We need to talk!"

"What about?" the Cupido asked curiously as he hearted in. "Phoebe, what's going on?"

She looked up at him in love. "Well, we've been found out and my family wants to get to know you. Can you come? Soon?"

"Of course. When will it happen? I'm looking forward to your little nephews. Wyatt and Chris are the talk of the magical world," Coop explained smiling. "Don't ask so much!"

Phoebe hmphed. "It's in my nature. Spill it out, Coop!"

"What?" the Cupido asked innocently. Smiling, he continued, "There's nothing to tell. And with Piper and Leo breaking the rules, well, let's just say they opened some doors."

"Oh." Phoebe was astonished by this honest answer. "Does this mean there's a chance for us? Anyway, when it's time, how do I call you?"

Coop only smiled. "Just call me like you did now. Or just think of me, and I'll be there." He kissed her on the forehead and then hearted out.

Phoebe could only sighed and wait for his return. Until then, she had to do a job and a family to take care of. Her letters were waiting.

---

ON THE PLAYGROUND

Leo pushed the double stroller to their favorite playground where he put Wyatt in the sand and sat down with Chris on a bench close by. To watch over Wyatt and his display of powers in public. Maybe.

"Ah, I see, we had the same idea," greeted a familiar voice and seated his son next to Wyatt. "And what about Chris and his play?"

"Derek, hi," Leo greeted back smiling. Going through Chris's soft brown hair and kissing it, he just offered, "I don't think he's ready yet, though I know he wants to. Be like his big brother."

"I can imagine," Derek agreed, sitting down beside Leo. "You don't mind, do you? Anyway, I'm here to see if D.J. behaves well in public. You know with his tongue."

Leo accepted nodding. "D.J.?" he asked confused.

Derek laughed a bit. "Since our last visit at you and you calling him Junior, I've decided to name my son Derek Junior. The state was already annoying me with naming my kid, you see."

"I do." In Leo's arms, Chris seemed to have gotten other plans and reached out to his two friends. "Whoa, buddy. Careful." He turned to Derek. "See. As expected." The father turned his son to him. "Buddy, what is it?"

Chris looked up at his father and said, "Dada."

Both men said nothing. Shocked, as well as Wyatt and Junior in the sand. This was just amazing. For a child to speak his first word.

"Did he.....? Did he just say?" Derek began to stutter nervously and pointed to Chris. "This is so cool."

"Yeah," Leo agreed amazed. Wyatt's first word had been 'Momma' but Chris had chosen him. He grinned suddenly. "C'mon, buddy, say it again."

"Dada," Chris repeated the word and all smiled at him.

"Kwis," said Wyatt astonished and ran to hug his baby brother tightly. "Kwis, pway!" Wyatt looked at their father, hoping for a good decision.

Leo rolled his eyes and sat Chris down in the sand. "Watch him," he adviced his eldest son who nodded. "And don't let him eat the sand! Look after him!"

Wyatt nodded quite eagerly and guided his baby brother to their little 'castle' which he and D.J. had built before. His baby brother was pleased, to say at least. Their friend D.J. had the same silly expression on his face.

Derek and Leo began to talk again while keeping an eye on their sons. "So when will you tell Piper about Chris's first word? It must be good to have beaten her once," Derek offered smiling, knowing Leo good enough by now.

The father sighed. "You have no idea how good it felt. Anyway, I'm going to tell her tonight when she's back home."

"Oh. I see." Derek scratched his head confused. "Still, let's just talk while watching our kids play."

And so they did. The whole day and afternoon—until it was time to go home.

---

PAIGE & HENRY

The youngest Charmed One went straight to the parole station and into his office, startling him. Yet before he could speak, she began smiling, "Don't worry, it's nothing bad. Just an invitation to my family," Paige offered, kissing him slightly.

"Whoa," Henry said shocked but amused. "To your family? Isn't that kind of fast? Not that I'm curious and all but we barely know each other."

Paige blushed slightly. "Yeah, I know but family is always curious, especially my older sister Phoebe. And my nephews are very cute."

"Wait. You don't mean 'Ask Phoebe' Phoebe, do you?" he began to stutter nervously. "Which would mean that your other sister owns P3. Oh my, the Halliwells."

Paige went closer to him. "So you've heard about us. Doesn't surprise me though. So my invitation?"

"I'll come. Don't worry," Henry agreed quickly. "There were some strange stories in the papers. Please, don't tell me there were true, weren't they?" His girl looked away suddenly. "What are you hiding from me?"

"You see it depends on how open you are," Paige suggested slowly. "Open to wiccan stuff and all. Then I maybe could explain those to you. Henry, what do you think about magic and witches?"

Henry stopped his movement. "Fairy tales are true, I always thought that. Paige, you're a witch but you seem good." He drew her closer to him. "And the nephews you mentioned? How are they?"

"You are right, I'm a good witch which means my sisters and I save Innocents, people who need our help and for me especially, I intend to help future whitelighters since I'm a half whitelighter as well."

"Well, that sounds interesting. Does all your family have powers?" Henry wanted to know curiously. His life was getting interesting with this woman.

Paige simply nodded. "It runs in the family actually but it'd be too long to explain this now. My nephews go by the names Wyatt and Chris, by the way. Wyatt's a cute blond toddler and Chris a brown haired baby, though both are growing up so fast."

Henry grinned good naturally. "That kind of happens in life. How old are they?"

"Later," Paige stopped him smiling. "Let's just talk about our maybe future. Together. What do you say?"

The parole officer just drew her closer to him, again and kissed her fast. "It is okay," he stated only.

Well, you see where this may lead to between Paige and Henry. Hehe.

---

PIPER & KIRA

The eldest sister had the shortest way to Kira since the former Seer was living close by. Well, almost. Knocking on the door, Piper was slowly getting impatient since this was never one of her virtues. She sighed.

"Oh, hi Piper," Kira greeted her, kinda a bit embarrassed. "I was just bathing and forgot the time." Then she noticed the woman's look. "Oh, I'm sorry. Come on in."

"Thanks." The Charmed One walked in and sat down on the couch, looking around. "Interesting décor you've got here. Must be still your inner........demonic side."

"Yeah," Kira agreed smiling. "Now if you don't mind, I'm going to change and then we're going to talk." She hurried away and quickly returned. "So, what's up?"

Piper swallowed hard. "Well, I know Leo's searching for this at Magic School since he was given this information by Zankou before he was killed, yet I'm sure there's a bigger picture behind all this. And I want to know who from you!"

Kira nodded smugly. "Great information but I'm still clueless." She grinned, hopefully.

"Sorry," the woman apologized smiling. "We met a young witch named Billie Jenkins. She appeared way too fast after our elf nanny had quitted all of a sudden."

Kira cut in amused. "You had an elf nanny? Nice."

"Anyway," Piper continued rolling her eyes. "Chris seemed to be afraid of her and we all got an uneasy feeling, yet we hired her. So Leo and I now are onto research for prophecies and more things." She looked directly at the former Seer. "You know I have a feeling this being a long-term plan. Have you heard of any at your time as Seer?"

Kira thought about it. Long and even longer. "Well," she began slowly. "There was once a rumor about something called 'the ultimate battle' where two set of sisters would fight against each other. And the only people I know who plan for a long time are............the Triad."

"WHAT!" Piper shrieked shocked. "This can't be! Cole killed them! We're sure."

The former Seer shook her head. "No, Piper, they always come back. At first as spirits, then complete. The Triad is like flies: You never gonna kill them—for good! If I remember right, I think they've longed for a world free of witches, only that the evil side survives." Silence. "Piper?"

The Charmed One couldn't believe it. If what Kira said were true, no! She shook her head crying. "No, that's not possible!" A short silence followed. In a quiet voice Piper asked, "Do you think my baby can feel evil?"

Kira bit on her lower lip, not really knowing what to answer. It could be possible but couldn't as well. Yet Leo was an Elder this time. "Maybe," she offered slowly. "I can't be 100% sure. It's always difficult when it comes to things like that, you know."

"I see," Piper just offered nodding. After a while, she grinned all of a sudden. "Anyway, my sisters met some men and want to introduce them to the family. You are more than welcome to join us in the Manor."

Kira laughed now. "Oh, I already know of that. I'm a Seer, a former one but still." Her opposite grinned knowingly. "Never mind, I can tell you that you're going to meet a Cupido and a parole officer. Cute men, by the way."

"Names, please."

"Okay. The Cupido is named Coop only. Simple but sweet. And the parole officer's name is Henry Mitchell. They're going to be great couples."

"So, you're coming, Kira?" Piper pleaded with her best look.

"Of course. I wouldn't miss this for the world! In three days, I think," Kira offered knowingly and patted Piper's hand.

The Charmed One only nodded, and both women chatted away until Piper had to leave for her kids and man.

---

THREE DAYS LATER

Kira knocked on the Manor's door excitedly and waited for anybody to open it. After a long time, it was opened and Kira quickly rushed in and greeted the opener by the way, "Hi Leo, Chris, Piper invited me. I take it, Phoebe and Paige are not here yet. Thank you!"

"You're welcome," Leo greeted her irritated and looked at his youngest son sighing. "Strange woman, son. You should stay away from her, buddy."

Chris watched his Daddy and the woman fascinated but then nodded. He'd just missed Wyatt who was out with their Grandpa—to the zoo or a road trip. The little boy didn't remember but wondered what was going to happen today.

Kira stormed to the kitchen and greeted, "Hello Piper, I'm already here. Where's Wyatt? When will your sisters come? I'm very eager to see their men."

"Whoa, woman, slow down," Piper replied with raised palms. "First of all, Wyatt's out with Dad on some road trip and I have no idea when my sisters come. You're a Seer, don't you know? By the way, do we risk exposure?"

"Nah, Henry already knows and so does Coop who is magical, anyway. Don't worry so much."

Just as Piper was about to answer, the doorbell rang again and she knew Leo'd answer it. Still, she whispered under her breath, "Weird woman" before she went out and greeted her new guest, full knowing Kira would follow.

"Hey Phoebe, good to see you," the eldest sister greeted her younger one, kissing her and then noticed the tall man. "Whoa, tall and cute. Who's he?"

"Hello Piper, Leo and little Chris, my name's Coop and I'm a Cupido," the man explained smiling and shaking anyone's hand. "Ah Kira, I didn't forget you and I've heard a lot about you. Anyway, Piper, you met one of my colleagues years ago."

"We did?" Piper scratched her head, lost in thoughts and Leo looked equally helpless. "Never mind, where's Paige?"

The youngest sister looked shyly around the corner. "I'm already here, Piper. Hello Leo, Chris, Kira. Phoebe and Coop, this is Henry, Henry Mitchell, my friend."

"Boyfriend, you mean, eh," Phoebe cut in, twinkling her eye at her baby sister. All laughed while Paige blushed.

"Kids behave!" the mother said snickering. "Now that we're complete, we should sit down and eat and while doing it, I wanna know all what you did."

"We'll see what can be arranged," Paige only offered and sat down, next to Henry.

Leo striped his baby son into his own chair but the boy was clearly not happy about it which amused the others. Definitely. Sighing, the father decided that his son should sit between his Mommy and Daddy and Chris instantly cheered up. Now Leo sighed in relief and the rest of his family hid their laughter behind hands.

"Funny," the former Elder only commented and focused on Chris and Piper to his right. "So?"

Piper rolled her eyes but wondered what Leo wanted from her. Then it clicked. "Right," she drowled out and turned to her sisters now. "What have you done meanwhile? We haven't seen each other for some time."

Phoebe looked at her baby sister briefly before replying, "Just promise to not get mad." The oldest one was confused but nodded. "Okay, good. Coop and I as well as Paige and Henry have looked for our own lives and lofts which means we're going to move out from the Manor. But we'll be there if you need us. At any time. Promise."

Leo and Piper looked at each other baffled. They were silent for some time before Chris decided to make some noise. "Eh, Dada and Mama," he said and got their attention promptly.

Paige stood up, stroked over Chris's soft brown hair and added to Phoebe's long explanation, "You know, Piper, it's only a natural process. You're going to need the space, anyway, one day." She kissed Chris on his head now. "The boys would want their own room later on, don't you think? You know we are right, Piper. Admit it!"

Piper groaned loudly while the others laughed. Looking up at her baby sister, she offered smiling, "Yes, I admit you both are right. It was bound to happen one day. So where do you live then?"

"Well," the middle sister started nervously but Coop laid a calming hand on her arm. "Coop and I live in a loft in the city whereas Paige lives with Henry, in his apartment, I think and if I'm informed right." She received a slap on her upper arm. "Ouch. Got it, Paige."

"That's quite interesting," Leo informed his family grinning. "And also that you managed to do this in such a short time." He turned to the men. "Tell me, guys, are you used to the Wiccan life by now? Henry more than Coop, naturally." He grinned at them.

Coop glared at the former Elder but his mouth split into a grin still. "You know me, Leo. We've seen each other before and besides, you're quite an example in the magical world, especially 'Up There'!"

"Wait," Kira cut in curiously and got all attention from them. "You two knew each other?! But how can this be?" She received glares. "Yeah, I know the magical world is huge but this is just weird."

Leo smiled at her knowingly. "We only met briefly and from afar." He turned to the true mortal. "Henry? Are you used it by now?" He was still grinning.

Henry scratched his head nervously. "Well, when Paige first told me she was a witch I was shocked. I mean I've only heard about them in fairly tales and in those witches are bad." The others chuckled. "Yeah, I know but put yourself in my shoes! Anyway, Paige explained me the whole story and I accepted it. That's it, my way into your family."

Kira leaned onto him all of a sudden. "You know I've foreseen all of this, yet one big battle the sisters still have to fight. And you're going to need all your powers."

All the sisters and their men listened carefully to the former Seer. Information was everything.

---

WITH VICTOR & WYATT

Wyatt loved his Grandpa, really and all their adventures but he missed his family, especially his baby brother. Putting a smile on his face, the little boy enjoyed his day with his Grandpa.

Victor saw this and leaned down to Wyatt. "I know you miss them, buddy but we've planned this for a long time, remember?" His grandson nodded. "See. Enjoy it and we'll be back in two days, anyway."

So the pair continued their tour through the deep forest and watched the foreign animals in awe.

---

AT UNIVERSITY

Billie was frustrated and her features clearly showed it. Today she had no access to the Manor, because it was a 'family' day as they'd explained it to her. Great, yet she had the feeling today was important at the Manor.

"Billie, what are you doing here? I thought you were out today," Christy asked confused as she entered her sister's room, sitting down next to her.

"Something big is going on at the Manor, and I wasn't invited. This is not fair!" She crossed her arms over her chest. "And I think little Chris doesn't like me!"

"Maybe he's more sensitive than Wyatt," Christy offered helpfully. "Besides, there's a rumor that an older Chris had been here before. Making Daddy an Elder and himself stronger or equal to his older brother, the Twice-Blessed."

"You think?"

"I know so. If you could gain the adults and Wyatt's trust, I'm sure Chris would follow. He depends on them fully—until he's grown up. Like Wyatt."

"Still, I think there's something we're not taken in. Like there's something in the Manor protecting him. A Shadow or so." Billie looked at her sister in question.

"We'll find out, I promise," Christy said and hugged her.

The two sisters just talked in the end and hoped their plan would work.

TBC....

---

Hope you're going to like it. Don't worry, Leo's quest for Melinda Warren is already written and will come up soon. Just thought I should give you first this one. lol

COMMENTS ANYONE?

Next time would be the play at Wyatt's pre-school or the interlude.

[Tim]

Good to see you making use of Kira, a character the show sadly wasted. As you know, she's appeared in a few of my R&H stories

Your take on S8 is excellent, Jana. It's making a lot more sense than the show did. It's nice when you have time to plan out a story, rather than have it thrown together at the last minute, like what happened with the show.

[Tim]

4. A School Play with Twists

STILL AT UNIVERSITY

Billie suddenly jumped up. "As far as I know, Wyatt has had a school play soon. I'm sure we can come up with something to disturb this little play."

"And how?" Christy asked curiously. "They already know that the Triad is back." Suddenly an idea formed in her head. "What about another old foe of them? The Source."

Dumain shimmered in, startling the two sisters. "That's a great idea, Christy. I think the Triad can manage this one time but the Source should be coupled with a low level demon, to get rid of him easily again."

Christy smiled and quickly accepted the plan. Even her sister did nodding. The older Jenkins was sure that Dumain, her mentor, would take care of everything. The Halliwells might have to fight on two frontes.

---

A FEW WEEKS LATER

Piper was busily working on Wyatt's costume. It had to be perfect for his school play and Chris was growing up so fast that his clothes had to be sewed anytime. It was quiet in her house now that her sisters had moved out.

"Penny for your thoughts?" Leo's voice cut in, all of a sudden. She looked up startled. "Sorry. What's wrong?"

"I think I just miss them," his wife replied like in trance. "Yeah, I know it has to happen one day but so fast? Anyway, where are the boys?"

"Mmh, last time I saw them Wyatt tried to teach Chris how to orb in one place. And I think they'll soon invent 'orb and seek' in our home." Leo smiled at the thought. "Anyway, how's the custome going?"

She looked at her work. "It looks good," she said proudly. "Wyatt will look great in it, I think." A sigh followed. "And now onto Chris's clothes. Our little boy grows like a rabbit."

Leo laughed. "I know but so does Wyatt, don't forget this!" He started to walk away. "Have fun! I'm going to look after the boys."

"Oh Leo," Piper's voice stopped him suddenly. "Could you send Wyatt down, please? We need to see if the custome suits him."

"Okay," Leo called back and ran upstairs. There were some happy squeals coming from above as then Wyatt orbed down, next to his Mommy.

Just as Piper was about to speak with her son, the doorbell rang. "Who could this be?" she asked curiously and stood up, taking her eldest son by the hand. Opening the door, she was stunned to see another mother there. "Hi, how can I help you?"

"Hello, my name's Mandi and I wanted to see what you've made for your son. You see, I need some inspiration," the woman explained, always smiling. "Can I come in, please?"

"Not really," Piper said irritated and looked around nervously. "It's not the right time actually. I'm busy with several things. We'll see each other at the school play. Thank you." She shoved the woman away.

For one second, Mandi showed her true nature but then again. "Okay," the woman said and walked finally away.

The eldest Charmed One sighed in relief and turned back to her original work. "Leo!" she called out irritated.

Her husband appeared with her youngest son in his arms. "What's up, Piper? I'm sure Chris wants to play with his big brother, right buddy?" Leo smiled at him and his son squealed in delight.

"Well," the woman began. "A strange woman, or mother named Mandi came here to see how my work was going. For the school play, of course but something was off of her. I can't say what exactly."

"Wait, are you saying that she was sent here? By the Triad or Billie?" Leo wanted to know curiously. If that were true, holy shit!!

Piper only nodded and swallowed hard. After so many years of being a witch, she could feel evil when she sees it. "What do we do if she comes again?" she asked a bit afraid. "And I bet she does!"

"Should we ask Phoebe for help?"

"Nah, I think she'll work on her own baby by now. Remember her vision? Anyway, we have our own radar." The mother looked at her youngest child.

"No! No way," Leo protested immediately. "Chris is still too young for this! He may have his powers and use them quite good but this is too much! No!"

"Leo, please," Piper begged and regretted this 'incident' all of a sudden.

"Give me some time to think about it," he pleaded and looked back at the table. "And you should continue your work on Wyatt's custome. Time's running!" The man walked with his youngest son away, not even looking at his wife and eldest boy.

Wyatt looked up at his Mommy in shock and asked curiously, "Mommy and Daddy mean? Not wanna. Be nice!"

"I know, baby and so do I," Piper explained to her son. "It's just a little disput." She stood up again and led Wyatt to the table. "Now let's see if your custome fits you, shall we?"

Having no real other choice, the eldest boy let it happen. The custome was nice but why was he the one to wear it? Ah yes, the school play or something like that. He just hoped that all his family would be there. To see him.

Piper only busied herself with the custome and tried not to think about her other two men. She knew Leo was right and she too was afraid for Chris but what other choice did they have? Phoebe had not yet back her empathy and her baby boy seemed more sensitive than others. After all, Leo was an Elder this time around. A prick into her own hand reminded Piper of her actual task. Quickly she focused on it again.

---

NOT SO FAR AWAY.......

Leo had not fled far and was now sitting next to a tree in the garden, his baby son still in his arms. Looking at his boy, the father knew his wife was right but the pain of losing Chris was still there and fresh. At least for him!

"What do I do?" he whispered to his son. "I just can't lose you again. I'd die if something would ever happen to you." The man looked up at the Heavens. "Give me a sign, please!"

Out of nowhere, a little black cat jumped into his lap. It was only Chris's cat, Shadow who wanted to smooch with its owner. Leo's hope fell since he'd hoped for the house's Shadow within the cat. Leo sighed.

The little boy held his cat tightly and to him but noticed his Daddy's sad look. "Daddy, you okay?" he asked shyly and touched his arm slightly. However, the son snuggled deeper into his Daddy's lap.

"Whoa, buddy, careful," Leo said smiling and held his grinning son, cat included, in front of him. "What do you think you're doing, eh?" Leo laughed out loud. "But it surely works."

The two of them started to play in the grass and the cat jumped in between them. There was a lot of laughter and for one moment, Leo could forget his sorrows.

The little boy was happy, now that his Daddy was happy again. Though he didn't understand yet why Mommy and Daddy were so mad at each other. Chris just hoped he was not at fault for this.

---

LATER THAT EVENING

The boys were brought to bed meanwhile. After they had played orb-and-seek within the house (given by their parents!) and had also played some tricks on them while Chris's kitten had just watched them bored. Now it was quiet again and so the parents had some time to talk about all.

"Man, do these two have energy!" Piper said, sipping on her tea while giving her husband also a cup. "But I'm glad you've warned me ahead."

"Yeah," Leo whispered and then looked up at his wife. "I'm sorry I yelled at you earlier but you have to understand. I'm just afraid to lose him again."

Piper touched his arm shyly. "I know and I do understand. It's hard to imagine what you went through when he died in your arms. But we still have him with us. He's protected—by all of us."

"I know," Leo replied and then sighed, head in his hands. "I just can't understand why Chris is so sensitive and all these new powers?! What are the Elders thinking? He's just a little boy, for God's sake?"

The wife looked at her spouse. "Maybe because you were an Elder this time around." A pause. "Or maybe the Elders finally decided to let the boys have equal powers. After all, they know their destiny and also ahead the future. It's true, isn't it?"

"Pah, if only.....," the man said angrily. "But no, the Elders only see glimpses and it's not allowed to see all." Then an idea came to his mind. "When is Wyatt's school play again?"

"In a few days. Why?"

"Well, I've got an idea. How about we split up? You'll pay a visit to Wyatt's pre-school, with our custome and his custome while I'll visit our new babysitter with our baby boy at her university. What do you say?"

Piper grinned at her husband. "Sounds like a plan, and also a good one." She grinned even more. "No wonder our baby boy turns out to be so smart."

Now Leo grinned as well. "Only Chris? But then he'll get it from both of us. What about Wyatt?"

"I think he'll need his baby brother in any case or situation. Normal and magical." Then she kissed him on his lips all of a sudden. "Now let's talk a bit more before going to bed, mmh?"

"Okay."

And so Piper and Leo talked for a while longer before they went to bed as well. After all, it had been a long day for all of them and it might get harder if the family had to fight on two sides at once.

---

THE NEXT DAY—WYATT'S PRE-SCHOOL

Entering the building, Piper with her eldest son was greeted with laughter, running kids and many mothers as well. All had their customes with as well and they were looking just as great as hers. Yet she was looking for one mother especially but Wyatt had other plans.

The mother sighed. "I know, son, I know. You want to play with your friends and you can go soon! Give Mommy some time, please!"

But Wyatt wouldn't wait and his mother let him go. Quickly he joined his friends and they started to play along, ignoring the original sense here. Their teachers were soon busier than they ever wanted to be today.

"Piper, what's going on? And what are you doing here, by the way?" one of them asked angrily. "It's Karen, by the way."

"Karen, I'm sorry, really," Piper apologized wincing. "You see I came here with two goals in mind. First of all, Wyatt wanted to see his friends and secondly, I wanted to speak with Mandi. She came to me one day and I wanted to get to know her if you don't mind."

"Mandi?!" Karen wondered out loud. "That's quite odd. She's never interested in other families or children." The woman looked around. "Strange. Her son is here but I can't see her. Really weird."

Piper said nothing. At first. "Really? That's quite interesting, don't you think? I mean, she appeared out of nowhere in front of my house and wanted to see how far I was with my costume and all. Can you explain this to me?"

"Not really," Karen said stunned. "Anyway, how about we'll look after the kids now before they destroy the building?"

"Sure," Piper agreed nodding. "But now I'm going to give my husband a call and let him know some things. Then I'll help you." She quickly opened her cell phone and called Leo but gave him only a cliff note version about the recent events. Then she joined Karen and the others to get the bunch of rascals under control.

---

AT UNIVERSITY—A BIT EARLIER

Leo sighed as he walked upon a place he thought he'd never see again. The campus of the local university where he'd been last as a student. Before the war had come and changed everything. The man was startled out of his memories by his ringing cell.

"Mommy," Chris announced smiling but his Dad was shocked. "Wha'?"

Leo opened his phone and looked incredulously at his baby boy. "Oh, hi Piper. Yeah, okay, I understand. Yeah, I'm looking for her as well. Got it, honey. Piper, I know." He sighed. "Bye." Another one. "Your mother, but you didn't hear it from me, right?"

Chris grinned at him but then pouted his bottom lip. "Daddy, afraid of me?" he asked shyly and watched him from under his dark bangs.

"Nah, buddy," Leo said smiling and tipped his son's nose, making his son laugh. "Alright, let's go and find your babysitter. In this great and huge mass." Together they walked straight to one building, hoping to find their known blondie in there.

Some students were passing by and one of them stopped politely and asked the foreigner, "How can I help you, Sir? You seem lost or are you looking for anyone special?"

"Wha'?" Leo asked stunned but stopped abruptly. Smiling at the young man, he continued, "Oh yes, indeed, I could need help. I'm looking for a Billie Jenkins. Ever heard of her?" His son wanted to go but he didn't let him. "So?"

The student laughed suddenly. "Oh yes, I have. My name's Sam, by the way. Recently there are strange rumors about her and also weird noises IN her room."

"Very interesting," Leo whispered gratefully. Out loud he asked, "Can you show me the way to her room? As you said, I'm kinda lost here."

"Sure, no problem," Sam agreed nodding. "My friends are gone, anyway. They seem to have forgotten me. Nice friends." He looked at the man. "If you don't mind my question, why are you looking for her?"

"Sorry about your friends," Leo apologized and shifted his son from arm to arm. Both were already walking through the large building. "And Billie is my sons' babysitter. She's been absent for some days when we'd have needed her. If this goes on, we may fire her again."

"Oh, I see, I think." Sam scratched his head nervously. Since then silence ruled between the two men, aside from Chris's babbling in his own language. Then they reached their destination. "Okay, here we are. Billie's room. Good luck and have fun!" And then he was running, again. Away from them.

Leo sighed and then knocked on the door. He heard some hectic noises and the door was opened by Billie nervously. "Hey Billie, we wanted to surprise you and here we are. Can we come in?"

Billie looked at them both smiling. "Oh sure. Step in!" Father and son entered the room, looked around and immediately sat down at the desk. "Right. How can I help you two?"

"Well, we've wanted to see how you live and how your life so is." Leo stopped all of a sudden as Chris snuggled even deeper into his chest which concerned the father even more. "Anyway, we haven't seen you in a while and were wondering what you were doing. In general, curious like any person." He smiled at her.

"Oh. I see, I think," Billie said, hopefully to sound convincingly. "Well, I only study here and work on some things for someone I know. Does that help?"

Leo nodded. "Okay. As you're a witch as well, have you ever heard of an 'Ultimate Power'?" His opposite began to sweat a bit what Leo noticed. "And for your information, we could teach you the wiccan stuff at the Manor if you like to. I mean, where do you learn it, anyway?"

"Oh, I've got a private teacher for that stuff. It's not necessary for your family." There was an urgent knocking coming out of nowhere. "Oops. I beg you to leave now! I need to work on a thesis very fast. Thank you." The young witch shoved the pair half gently out.

This action seemed to prove Leo's suspicions about the boys' babysitter, or better yet Chris's instincts. It was time to let the family know that, indeed, Billie and her roommate, more sister obviously, were the Ultimate Power. Leo quickly hurried with his son home.

Inside, Billie was pacing nervously around. She had the feeling that Leo's visit had a special purpose here: finding them out! And with Chris being here, it was exactly for that. Damn that boy!

"It seems we need to separate the boy from his family if we want to accomplish our goal, little sister," Christy suggested sighing. Her sister always acted weird in stress situations. This was one of them.

"And how do we do this on Earth?!" Billie spun around angrily. "Any ideas, big sister?"

"Indeed. You're their babysitter. It should be quite simple."

"But Chris feels evil like an Empath. Or it could be his power later on."

"I bet Dumain can find a way to suppress this nifty little power. I mean there are these kind of potions selling in the underworld. We can buy one."

Billie grinned and so did her sister. A plan was made and now they only needed to execute it—with some help, of course. The first step should be the potion, and then the other rest.

---

LATER—AT THE MANOR

Leo had taken the long way home, because Chris had been fussy and it had taken the father a long time to calm his baby boy down. For the former Elder it was clear that Billie and her sister, hence the Ultimate Power, were there—but no Mandi. Time to let his family know.

"Where have you been?" was Piper's first question when they entered. "I've been worried!" She took Chris and placed him to Wyatt in their playpen. "So now tell me what have you found out at Billie's?"

"She was really nervous and afraid of if we found her out. And Chris had clung to me the whole time as if he'd sensed their ultimate power. Billie and her sister, I mean but I'm sorry, there was no Mandi or anyone else," Leo explained, a bit frustrated.

"Great, just great," Piper agreed but then smiled. "Anyway, Wyatt's teacher also told me interesting news about Mandi. She was not seen at the pre-school today, yet her child was. Really strange if you ask me." She looked up at her husband. "What do we do now?"

Leo sighed but came to the conclusion. "I think we have no other choice than to let happen whatever has to happen in Wyatt's pre-school. Even with Mandi or Billie and her sister." His wife nodded. "Good. Now let's go and play with our children!"

Piper grinned and grabbed his arm, leading them to their children who they took out of their playpen and let them play with their powers and their parents.

---

ONE WEEK LATER

Wyatt was nervous and he showed it with pacing around. Only his little brother's hand which landed on his arm from time to time could calm him down. Yet he was happy that his whole family would be there, including Grandpa. Oh boy, he felt like a star himself!

"Wy, it's okay," Chris said and hugged his big brother tightly. "We all be there."

"I know," Wyatt whispered and then sighed lost. "It's just.......This is my first big play in school and I'm nervous. Totally." Chris patted him on his arm. "Thanks."

"Boys! We need to go now!" Piper's voice rang out and both boys grabbed their hands and ran to their parents who were waiting at the door. "Whoa, careful, boys! We need to get dressed for Wyatt's play."

Leo knelt down to his eldest boy and asked him, "Wyatt, aren't you excited? This is going to be your great day, isn't it?"

"Yeah," Wyatt agreed smiling and drew his baby brother closer to him. "If only you all are by me."

"We are. And now let's get dressed!" Leo took Chris and quickly changed him into a little suit. Just like Wyatt for the moment—until he needed to change into his custome.

Piper held Wyatt's package in one hand and took Wyatt's hand as well since both boys were still holding each other. Her husband took Chris's other hand and so the four of them walked out of the Manor.

Driving to the pre-school, both parents laughed at their kids' play on the backseat. It was a fun thing to see. Unfortunately, they reached the school too quickly. And you could see it on Wyatt's face. He was nervous, again.

Entering the building, Wyatt's anxiety grew but all his family pulled him with them. Yet one little hand squeezed his tightly, encouraging him and Wyatt smiled lovingly at his baby brother. Now he could go to his friends and on stage to play his part.

"Till later," the eldest son said all of a sudden and ran up to his friends. Oops, there was something he forgot. Running back quickly, his Mom handed him his costume and he returned to his group.

Leo knelt down to his youngest boy and asked, "What have you said to him, buddy? Mmh, otherwise he wouldn't be so eager now."

Chris grinned. "Nothing. Just gave my hand."

Piper caressed his hair smiling. "Good boy," she said and looked around. No sign of Mandi yet. "C'mon, let's walk to our seats and sit down! Wyatt will see us in the audience."

The three of them searched for their row and sat down, Chris in Piper's lap. Unnoticed, Mandi took a seat behind them—watching and learning. The little family would be separated soon. By her or Billie. The play began and all turned to watch the stage.

Wyatt was playing like never before, because he wanted to impress his baby brother. Watching his family helped him but the woman behind them, who was looking at his baby brother like her prey, was not in his favor. She was familiar but he couldn't leave right now. He needed to tell his parents!!

After one long hour it was finally over and Wyatt ran to his family and wanted to warn them but this strange woman was gone! However, he was swept around by his Dad and dragged to the others. Yet he couldn't forget this woman!

TBC.....

---

So a new chapter for you! The Interlude I can bring up as an oneshot or in between. Depending on a poll I'll do on FF.net. Can you wait this long?

COMMENTS ANYONE?

Next time: A bit more of Mandi and ....

[Tim]

Ah, we're up to the brief return of the Source episode (the actual name escapes me at the moment). I remember Mandi and how that Demon possessed her. They needed Wyatt to bring the Source back.

Well done, Jana, I look forward to seeing your take on this episode.

[Tim]

To Tim: Yeah, it was that episode but Mandi goes on here!

---

5. Warning & First Signs

A KNOWN ALLIANCE

There was a knock on Billie's door, and the young witch and her sister exchanged a confused look before she opened the door and smiled. "Hey, we've been expecting you for some time already. Come in, please and take a seat! What have you done meanwhile?"

"Well," the woman began smiling. "My body's name is Mandi and so I go by the same name. Anyway, I was at this school play you sent me to. Noisy kids, by the way. Was watching those Halliwell kids unnoticed hopefully. Still, I admit both are Twice-blessed, yet the younger kid has something."

"See." Billie turned to Christy half yelling. "I was right. Chris is special in his own way! Must be, bcause of his own time travel journey!"

Christy rolled her eyes. "Yeah, I think this is established." She turned to their guest. "What do you think of them, in general, Mandi?"

Mandi sighed. "They're powerful, even very, yet male witches are rare here. The older boy seemed normal, like any normal kid, you know but the younger one is more sensitive, I think. Must be in his genes."

"Yeah, Daddy was an Elder when he was conceived," Billie said disgusted.

"That explains a lot," Mandi only offered knowingly.

"Huh?" The young blonde witch was kinda irritated, yet her older sister smirked. "Christy?"

But Christy dismissed her only with a wave. "I know. What plan have you got if I may ask?" She smirked at their companion.

"I think it'd be similar to the one you've already planned. We need to separate the young boy from his family—on several ways, if possible, but he's protected."

"By whom?"

"I don't know but one of you can find out." Mandi turned to Billie. "You're their babysitter, aren't you? So it'd be your turn."

Billie groaned while the other two laughed at her expense. A look of fury crossed over her face but she remained silent, knowing it'd be best. However, all three of them then sat together and plotted the plan out. To take Chris from his family!

---

AT THE MANOR

Wyatt was pacing around, and he was getting frustrated as well. He'd seen this woman again but his parents wouldn't listen. Or ignored him better, yet this was important! Damn it! He stomped his one foot angrily and startled his baby brother with this.

"Wy, what wrong?" Chris wanted to know curiously and patted his big brother on his arm.

Wyatt sighed. "Sorry," he apologized and kissed his brother's forehead lovingly. "There's just something I need to tell Mommy or Daddy. Nothing for you to worry about."

Chris then grinned mischievously at his older brother. "No wowy. When Mommy and Daddy come home, I go to Daddy and you Mommy. Then talk, okay?"

"Smart ass," Wyatt muttered under his breath but out loud he said, "You're going to be a wise man one day, little brother."

"Really?"

"Yep." Wyatt smiled at his baby brother and kissed him on his head, just as the door opened. One normal, one magically. "Show time."

Chris quickly ran to their mother, hugged her legs and said just as fast, "Hi Mommy. Be with Daddy. Bye!" And he ran to his Daddy who spun him around and then the two of them walked to the garden. As if they sensed the importance of this.

Piper looked a bit irritated after her youngest but raised a skeptical eyebrow as her eldest walked slowly toward her. "Wyatt, what's going on? Tell me right now."

"Well, Mom," the boy began slowly. "There was a woman at the play. She was the same that been here before, you know."

"WHAT?!" the mother shrieked shocked. Calming down, she knelt down and asked, "Why didn't you tell me before, honey? What happened there? Talk to me, baby."

Wyatt began to play with his fingers nervously. "Well, I watched this woman, that sat behind you, from the stage and she had a bad look, specially at Chris. As if to get him away from you, you know."

Piper's mouth opened but closed it quickly again. Her thoughts were running wild as if to consider her son's words. It was true, that she was sure of. "Alright," she said, clearing her throat, "she was there and what did she do behind us?"

His gaze switched briefly to his baby brother in the garden and then to his mother. "She was mostly looking at Chris, I think but she was gone just as quickly." Wyatt stared at her long. "Do you think she knows Billie?"

"It's a thought," Piper muttered but out loud. "Maybe." She then smiled at her son. "How about we join your father and brother in the garden and have a fun day?" Her son grinned. "Okay then."

Wyatt began to run and dragged his mother with him. Soon the family of four was laughing and playing with each other and for a little moment, all sorrows were forgotten.

---

'A SECURITY NET'

A few days had passed and all was back to normal. Or so it seemed. Chris was barely left alone, which ne noticed and started to be annoyed. Since he couldn't speak well yet, Chris just pouted out his bottom lip angrily. After all, he'd learned well from his big brother.

Leo noticed this, sighed and knelt down to his boy. "Listen, buddy. I know this is hard but it has to be this way. We want you to stay alive."

"I know," the boy whispered slowly and then looked at his Daddy. "I want to have a life!" he shouted furiously but then, "Sorry."

Leo felt a déjà vu and smiled then. "It's okay, buddy." He hugged his little boy tightly. "How about a little visit at your Grandpa? You like it there, don't you?" His son nodded and grinned. "C'mon, orb us over!" And the father felt the all too familiar sensation of orbing.

Victor sipped on his coffee and nearly spit it out as an orbing sound was heard. "What the.....?" he began cursing. "Leo? Chris? What's going on?"

"Hey Victor," Leo greeted his father-in-law smiling. "You see we've come here to ask you to watch over your grandson for a little while. That's okay, isn't it?" Leo poked into his son's stomach and produced giggles out of him.

"No problem, Leo," Victor said concerned and took Chris into his arms. "Hey buddy. We'll play a lot soon but at first, let me talk to your Dad, okay?" The boy nodded and wanted to be let down what Victor did. Chris ran into the play room. "Okay, Leo, talk!"

Leo sighed anew. "It's kinda complicated. Chris is in danger and this time from two sides: one being the boys' babysitter, Billie, and the other one a woman named Mandi. Though both could be working together."

"I see." Victor sighed as well. "All right, I'll look after my grandson. What about Wyatt and Piper?"

"They know, all of them," his son-in-law assured him. "Just be careful around strangers." As he turned around, the father noticed something important. "Oops, I came here by orbing. I need a cosmic taxi!"

"Very funny," Victor commented dryly. "Besides, you could always ask Chris. After all, he's your son." The older man grinned, knowing he caught his son-in-law once.

Leo blushed. "Right. Let's go then." Together they walked to the kids' room here, and the father knelt down. "Hey buddy, could you orb Daddy home, please? Thank you, son." The boy waved his arm and Leo was gone.

Victor smiled at his grandson. "Good job, son. Now let's play!" He sat down at Chris's side and both played with the kids' blocks and other toys in the room. A lot of time passed by—until a knock startled the two of them. "Who could this be?" he wondered out loud. Grabbing his grandson, Victor stood up and walked to the door. "Hello?"

"Hi," a young woman said, greeting him smiling. "My name's Ma...deleine, and I'm new in this house. I wanted to get to know my new neighbors if it's allowed. Can I come in, please?"

Victor got a bad feeling but his manners took over. "Of course, come in. By the way, this is my grandson Chris, the younger one."

"Oh, what a cutie," Madeleine greeted the boy and wanted to shake his little hand but the boy turned away afraid. "Oh, he doesn't like me. Obviously."

"Well, he's a bit sensitive toward strangers," Victor apologized and turned his grandson away from her. "Do you have a special reason to be here? Maybe a magical one?"

"Wow, you're well informed for a mortal," Madeleine said impressed and hit the older man on his head. "Not as fast as you thought, eh? Give me the boy!"

"No!" Victor shouted angrily and huddled in front of his grandson who cried. "Shsh, it's okay, buddy." He looked at the woman now. "I take it your right name is Mandi, isn't it? Leave!"

"Ha, as if you'd have a chance against me. One little fireball and you'll be dead. And Chrissie boy is mine," Mandi explained smiling, playing with a fireball in her hand. "It's your choice, mortal: life or death?"

"Well, I'd rather survive, naturally," Victor stuttered out nervously. The fireball hit him on his leg. "Ouch. What were you thinking by doing this, eh?"

"Consider it as a warning, mortal," Mandi said smirking. "Now, if you won't get hurt again, hand me the boy over if you wanna survive for sure."

That left Victor with no other choice. "Chris, orb to your family, right now!" he shouted but nothing happened.

Mandi kicked the old man on his wound and into his stomach. "Stupid old man, I've blocked any powers here! As a matter of fact, you can't protect him anymore and so he's mine!" She took the crying boy and ran away.

Victor began to cry as well and whispered only, "Paige!" And he closed his eyes, falling into a darkness.

---

IN THE CITY

The youngest Charmed One was on a date with Henry. Today was a free day for her, or at least she hoped. They were at a nice café and were just talking about their upcoming life. Together.

"So when are you going to tell your sister that you'll move in with me? It'd be time," Henry half asked and looked at his girl. Yes, only his and this made him grateful. After his crappy childhood.

"I will tell them, I promise," Paige said smiling. "And I think Piper already knows and feels it. It....." She stopped suddenly. "Victor?"

"What?" Henry asked confused. "Who's Victor?"

"My sisters' father," Paige explained quickly, closing her eyes again. "He's in trouble and hurt which means I need to go now!"

He leaned closer to her. "What about exposure?" he whispered in fear.

She kissed him on his nose. "Don't worry, I'll be careful. I know the rules by heart now." Paige stood up and quickly searched for an unnoticed area, to orb away.

Henry decided to call Piper or Phoebe and let them know that their father was in trouble. He was in luck and Piper answered. Henry quickly told her what had happened and the woman was on her way.

---

AT VICTOR'S LOFT

As Paige orbed in, she was in shock. Victor was unconscious and bleeding; the door left opened. "Oh my God!" she exclaimed only and knelt down quickly, hoping to heal the man who she began to see as a father as well.

There were running footsteps and a shocked gasp. "Oh my God! Dad!" Piper said shocked and knelt down, next to her father's body. She looked at her baby sister, "Paige, is he going to be okay? What's happened?"

"I don't know," Paige replied stoic. "But please, let me concentrate, so I can heal him. Hopefully." Her sister nodded. "Thank you."

Several long minutes passed by before coughing drew the attention of the sisters to the man on the floor. "Piper? Paige?" Victor asked confused but then recalled what had happened. "Chris! He was here and has been kidnapped by this Mandi!"

"WHAT!" Piper shrieked terrified and sat down. Looking at Paige, she asked, "Can you sense him? Please, tell me." Tears were running down to her cheeks.

Paige closed her eyes and concentrated. She could sense her little nephew and he was in great danger. "Piper, I need to go now! But I'll be back, promise," she said and stood up. "You look after him?"

Piper nodded and cried. "And now go and save my baby!" She carassed her father lovingly and heard the familiar sound of orbing. "Dad, are you okay?"

"I'm fine," Victor said sighing. "I can't believe that Paige healed me. She loves me, huh? It's going to be okay, Piper?"

"Why was Chris here, Dad?" Piper wanted to know and wiped her tears away.

"Leo brought him here, to be safe. Or so he thought," Victor said sighing. "But this Mandi tricked me. Thought she was a new neighbor. I'm sorry."

"It's.....it's okay. I understand," Piper said and hugged her Dad fiercely, silently hoping that Paige could save her baby boy. And soon!

Victor felt the same but remained silent. Hoping for a good end in this adventure. He sighed.

---

IN AN ALLEY, A BIT EARLIER

Paige reformed in a dark alley where she'd sensed her nephew but no one was seen. "Hello?" she asked into it. "I know you're here! Show yourself!"

"Ah, a Charmed One," Mandi said impressed, with the boy in her arms. "Coming to get your little nephew, eh? Too late. Sorry."

"Yeah, well, we'll see about it." Paige saw how Chris's gaze switched between her and the woman. "C'mon Chris, come to Auntie Paige!"

Chris knew he was in danger but afraid. Sensing his auntie, he requested again, "Auntie Pai?" She nodded. And he orbed to her.

"Hey!" shouted Mandi astonished. "Damn it!" she cursed loudly. "You've won the first round but I'll be back!" She shimmered away.

"Strange woman," Paige commented and looked over her nephew again. "Are you okay, buddy?" He nodded. "Alright, let's go back to your Mommy and Grandpa."

"Grandpa okay?" Chris asked and leaned onto her shoulder, still afraid. "Sorry."

"Shsh, it's okay, Chris," Paige said, kissing him on his forehead. "Grandpa is okay. I healed him. Now let's go to them, shall we?"

Chris initiated the orb and orbed both himself and his Auntie back to his Grandpa who he just wanted to see fast.

---

BACK AT VICTOR'S LOFT

As orbs formed, Piper and Victor looked up in hope and their hope was satisfied. Out of the orbs formed Paige with Chris in her arms and the boy immediately wanted to go to his Grandpa. Paige smiled at this action.

"Hey buddy, I'm fine," Victor said and hugged the boy tightly to him. Chris snuggled into his neck and his Grandpa kissed him on his temple. "Your Aunt Paige healed me and your Mom came by. Shsh, it's going to be okay. You want to Mommy?" He nodded.

Piper took her son from her Dad and kissed him all over. "Are you really okay, peanut? This woman didn't hurt you, did she?" Silently she vowed to kill Mandi in all possible ways she was able to. "Well, I think we should return home now. I need to speak with my lovely husband!"

"Piper!" Victor nearly shouted at his daughter. "Leo's not at fault here! He thought Chris was safe here and how could he have known that we'd be tricked by this Mandi. Leave him alone!" he defended his son-in-law. Victor crossed his arms over the chest.

Paige looked between the two. "I guess he's right. Look at how we've found him. This was a total surprise attack here and so it's nobody's fault. Let it be!"

Piper sighed. "Okay, I let it go. But still, we need to go to the Manor. I left a meal on the stove and my car is still running, by the way. So, hush hush!"

Paige rolled her eyes. "Alright, you've won. Let's move then." She turned to the old man. "Bye Victor. And call me anytime you need me."

"Yeah, bye Dad. And don't scare me like that again, please!!" Piper was shoved by her sister and finally the three of them left.

Victor only shook his head at this action. Typical for his daughter and the woman would never change, yet it seemed Chris was becoming just like her. He'd seen it before, after all.

---

AT THE MANOR

Piper was furious as she entered her home, still with Chris in her arms. The eldest Charmed One wanted desperately to blow something up, or rather someone—like her own husband, for example! Yet he was a mere mortal now, so out of reach. Damn him!

"Piper, calm down. You're scaring Chris, honey," Paige tried to sooth her older sister. And she can read her as well. "Blowing Leo up won't help you since I may can heal now, this I can't allow that! Calm your temper, please!"

Piper's breath returned slowly to a normal way. "Okay, sorry, baby and Paige. Right, what do you suggest I'll do then?"

"Well, we should scry for this Mandi. Then this was her second attempt to get Chris. And it seems to be known that Chris is connected to the Shadow, and with it the Nexus. So we need to be more secure."

"Indeed," Piper agreed nodding. "We shouldn't forget Billie who plays also a role in this game."

"Yeah, a pawn in a big game to get Chris separated from us, don't you think, little guy?" Paige asked her little nephew who nodded fast. "See."

Piper smiled lovingly at her baby sister and son. "Okay. We should include Phoebe as well. She might have lost her powers but her intuition is always good."

"And Leo, of course," Paige added and ducked out of instinct but nothing happened. "Phew, I know you're sour of him now but he has knowledge. A lot of it, come to think of it. So?"

Piper sighed. "Okay, you've won. I won't kill Leo but we should wait until both Phoebe and Leo are back from their work. We should busy Chris meanwhile."

They put the boy down and let him run through the house, play with them until his older brother came home. Then it was double trouble. It was really late when Phoebe and Leo came finally home.

---

THAT NIGHT

After bringing the boys to bed which was very easy since Wyatt and Chris were dead tired, Piper and Leo joined Piper's sisters again in the living room.

"So what is it, Piper, you wanted to talk about?" Phoebe asked curiously, looking between her sisters and Leo around. "Do tell."

"Well, Mandi attacked Chris again and this time at Dad's. She got him for some time but Paige rescued him on time," Piper told all of them, except Paige who knew all of this already. "We need to do something fast."

"Piper, I'm so sorry," Leo apologized sadly. "I thought Chris were safe at Victor's. I'm so sorry."

"It's okay, honey," Piper said and hugged him. "Still, we need to find the connection between Mandi and Billie and find the aim of them. Though that's already clear. Chris."

"What do you suggest we do now?" Phoebe wondered out loud.

"Never leave him alone?" Paige said asking and all agreed nodding. All four of them talked long about what had happened recently and wondered how Billie was involved in all of this.

TBC.....

---

So do you like my continuation? I'll do the same on FF.net with a poll for my little oneshot I already wrote.

COMMENTS ANYONE?

Next time: Some union and a "divorce"

[Tim]

A well done adaptation of a mediocre episode. I enjoyed this update, Jana, you can make me actually enjoy Season Eight.

[Tim]

To Tim: Wow, really? What an improvement then!!

---

6. Divide & Unite

CRAZY, INSANE WOMEN

At university, in her own room, Billie was getting frustrated and she was pacing around. "Damn her! I thought she was getting it done and once again, she failed. I can't believe her!"

Christy sighed as her younger sister paced through the room. "Mandi may have failed but she managed to get Chris away from his family. It's a progress, and now it'd be your turn."

"Great," Billie said and stopped all of a sudden. "No pressure there, right?"

Mandi shimmered in to their surprise. "She's right, Billie. I can't do all your work, you know. Besides, the Charmed Ones would more concentrate on me rather than you. It should be easy."

"Says you," Billie fired back angrily. "Chris doesn't trust me if you haven't noticed this fact. And by now, the other family members are suspicious too. Anymore bright ideas, eh?"

Christy smirked behind her. "Well, I'm sure we should be able to distract the others so that Chris sees no other choice than to turn to you. Dumain and Mandi could be of help here. What do you think?"

Mandi quickly agreed nodding. "Sounds good to me. We can mobilize as many demons as possible." She turned to Christy confused. "Who's Dumain?"

The answer came with a shimmer behind her. "That would be me, Mandi." He kissed her hand in greeting. "As I've heard you managed to get Chris away from his family, even if only for a short time. But you did."

Mandi smiled in thanks. "Oh yeah. The old man was an easy target and the boy seemed fascinated of me since he didn't orb away from me. Only when his Auntie came and got him. This any help for you?"

Dumain and Christy grinned but Billie seemed lost. Dumain replied, "It should be. You were really helpful, though some of us doesn't seem to appreciate this." He turned to Billie. "And she's right, it's your turn now."

"Thank you very much," Billie said and crossed her arms over the chest before storming out.

Christy, Mandi and Dumain just looked after her before going into the details for the next step. They needed to separate the boy from his family—at whatever cost.

---

THE MANOR

Chris was sulking in his room. After a week of never being left alone, he was so done with his family! Though the boy couldn't announce that yet, Chris knew how to show his family the cold shoulder. His big brother had tried to get him speak but the boy had refused. So Wyatt had walked away and was now probably telling their parents. Great, just great.

And indeed, Wyatt was in the living room where all his family was seated around the table. He slowly walked closer. "Hi, I think we need to talk. About Chris," he began and looked up afraid. All eyes were on him. "He's not talking to me. Rather sour."

Leo picked his son up and put him on his lap. "Why do you think this, Wyatt? We just want to protect you and your little brother. You can tell us what's going on, son."

Piper encouraged her eldest boy as well. "C'mon, Wyatt, you can tell us. What's bothering Chris?"

Wyatt bit on his bottom lip nervously. "Well," he started again and played with his fingers too. "I think he's not happy with us right now since we barely left him alone last week. Chris needs his space as well."

"We know, buddy," Leo agreed and kissed his son on his head. "But we only did this to protect him. We'd lost your brother before and are afraid now that's going to happen again."

Wyatt remained quiet for some time. "You mean when he was my hero?" There was a pause. "And now that he was kidnapped, my baby brother is still in danger, right?" He looked at both his parents and was afraid of their answer.

Piper looked briefly at her sisters before nodding. "You are right, baby. We've been through this before and you and your brother are too precious for us. This Mandi tricked us once but never again. We do think that your babysitter, Billie, could take him too. Soon."

"Oh," was the only thing Wyatt could say. It slowly dawned on him why their family was so protective of them. He could understand.

His mother took his hands all of a sudden. "See, that's our reason and I see that you understand." Another look at her sisters. "Well, how about you go and talk to your baby brother, make him understand. Can you do that?" she asked of him hopefully.

Wyatt looked shyly at all his family members before slowly nodding. Looking at his Dad, he asked for him to let him down. "Please Daddy, let me go," he begged with his eyes. "I need to speak with Chris."

Leo kissed him again briefly and ruffled the blond locks smiling. "Alright, son. Go and tell him what we told you. Chris is smart and will understand."

"I know that, Daddy. Let me go!"

"Okay, okay. You both be careful still!" Leo said after his running son. The ex-Elder sighed. "I just hope he'll manage this." Turning to the sisters, he added, "We need to be prepared—for either Mandi or Billie. Let's talk then!"

The four of them started to talk about their original issue: finding this 'ultimate power' which Leo mentioned and how Billie and Mandi are involved in this. It was going to be a long night.

---

THE BOYS' ROOM

Wyatt knocked carefully on their shared room's door. There was no answer. "Chrissie, it's me, Wyatt," the older boy began nervously. "Let me in, please. We need to talk!"

"About what?" came Chris's tiny voice from inside and the door opened a bit. "Come in."

Wyatt stepped in and slowly approached his baby brother who sat sadly on the floor. "Oh Chris." Then he saw Chris's packed bags. "Oh boy, what are you doing?"

Chris looked at his bags and then back to the wall. "I just wanted to flee. Maybe to Grandpa or elsewhere. I don't know." He looked at his big brother. "What do you want, Wy?"

The older boy slid down next to his baby brother. "I talked with the grown-ups. They explained me the whole situation—with you and demons."

"And what did they tell you?" the younger boy harshed out angrily but then. "Sorry, Wy. Who was this woman and why do they want me?"

Wyatt sighed and scratched on his head. "I can't say exactly but I think it's the fact that we're equal in powers, you know. And this woman was Mandi, the name Mommy called her. She might be with Billie, our babysitter, though I don't know how."

Chris sighed as well. "My sixth sense told me not to trust Billie. She's only a part of this game and she must have helpers, like this Mandi, I'd say."

Wyatt grinned all of a sudden. "Way too smart for his age." That earned him a slap on his upper arm. "Ouch. Okay, okay, I'm sorry. So, may I ask what ideas they might have now, smart ass?"

There was a long pause as Chris thought about it. "Well, this may sound weird but I'd try to separate me from you—at whatever cost."

Wyatt's eyes widened in shock. "Oh my God, you're right! And they could use Billie now—to get you while we'd busy with other things! I need to tell the grown-ups."

"Stop, Wy! This was just an idea."

"But a brilliant one. C'mon, let's tell them."

"No!" Chris demanded and stopped his big brother by running in front of him. "Listen to me. I don't want them to know and you as my big brother should respect my wish. Please do so!"

"Chris, I don't understand you," Wyatt begged confused. "Don't be so damn stubborn!" He sighed. "Alright, but please explain me why not."

The younger boy sat down again. "It's just......I don't want to worry them, especially Mom. She already worries enough and I don't want to be a burden."

"Oh my, I should have known," the older boy whispered, hopefully not heard by his brother. Out loud, he said, "I'm sorry, Chris but this is going to hurt me more than you think." His fist connected with Chris's face and the boy went limp in his arms. "I'm so sorry."

Instantly Wyatt shifted Chris in his arms and orbed with him to their parents who were on alert the moment they orbed in.

---

LIVING ROOM, AGAIN

"Wyatt, what's going on?" Piper demanded to know immediately and checked on Chris as well. "What did you do, young man?" She took her baby into her own lap. "Wyatt!"

"Well," the boy began nervously. "Chris has had a great idea and I wanted to tell you but he....refused, I think. I mean, he acted like a.... m......"

"Martyr?" Leo supplied in hope and his son nodded. "Yup, indeed like his Mommy." That earned him a slap. "Ouch, sorry, Piper. Anyway, what idea did Chris have? Care to share with the folks?"

Wyatt grinned suddenly. "That's why I knocked him out and came to you. Still, Chris's idea is about separating him from us and now it'd be Billie's turn, after him."

"Smart," Leo said and Piper nodded as well. "So what do we do now? Let it all happen or protect Chris even more? He'll flee one day."

The blond boy suddenly blushed and turned away what Piper noticed. "Wyatt, is there anything we should know about Chris? You have to tell us."

"Wyatt!" Leo went on and grabbed his son. "Wyatt, what had Chris done before?"

"Well," he began nervously. "As I went into our room, he'd packed some bags and wanted to flee. Yet he didn't say where to."

Piper and Leo gasped but both or all three were distracted as Chris came around. "Whoa. Wy, why did you hit me?" A look at his family answered all his questions. "Oh."

The mother held her baby even more tightly. "Chris, peanut, what in God's name were you thinking? Please explain yourself!"

Chris looked away and tried to orb but couldn't. "It's just.......I don't want to be a burden for anyone. I'm in danger at any time! I don't want it!"

"Hey Chris," Wyatt cut in quickly. "So am I. We're both Twice-Blessed and at the moment you are more in danger than I am. That's just our life and you know this by now, don't you?"

The brunet nodded slowly and looked at anyone. "Sorry," he only offered and searched for comfort in his mother's lap.

The other three smiled at their youngest member's actions but Leo had to bring them back to reality. "Still," he whispered. "What do we do now, regarding to Chris and Billie?"

Piper looked at her family and then her baby. "I think we let it happen. We need to see if our theory is right, okay?"

All nodded and just watched Chris sleep.

---

SEVERAL DAYS LATER

As the doorbell rang, Piper opened it smiling. "Hello Billie," she greeted her babysitter. "Thank you for coming on such a short notice. I can tell you the boys will be angels today."

"Oh really?" Billie asked confused and shook Piper's hand in greeting. "What do you need me for, Piper? And where's the rest of the family if you don't mind my question, do you?"

"Nah, it's okay," the eldest Charmed One said, still smiling. "Phoebe's at work and Paige's gotten a new charge somewhere on an island and after that, they want to meet their men."

"Cool. And when's the wedding?" the young witch wanted to know curiously.

Piper blushed a bit. "No idea yet. Anyway, Leo's very busy at Magic School and I am at P3, ordering bands and alcohol, you know. So are you ready to face the little devils, Billie?"

The blond witch nodded. "I am. So where are my angels?"

Piper tried to hide her anger at these words. "They're in the garden. For some reason, they love it there but one day, I promise you, they'll ruin my garden."

Billie laughed openly and started to walk toward it. "I think you're right," she agreed, still laughing. "Hi boys, Billie's here. Time for more games!"

The brothers Halliwell shared a look but said nothing at first. Wyatt spoke for both of them, "Hi Billie, nice to see you again. Are you going to watch over us today?"

The young witch knelt down and stroked over both boys' heads. "That's quite true. We three are going to have a lot of fun, aren't we?" The two boys grinned. Billie turned to Piper. "I think you can go now, Piper."

The mother shared a look with her boys, especially Wyatt. She knelt down as well and hugged her boys tightly, kissing them on their heads. "Alright, you two. Behave well and be kind to your babysitter!" She twinkled her eye. "Anyway, be careful with your powers and all. We don't want to alert the Cleaners, now do we?"

Both boys grinned at their mother nodding. "Yes, Mommy," they said at once and hugged her.

Piper stood up. "Okay, Billie. You know the rules as well. I need to go now. My manager has already called twice before you came. So, be good!" The Charmed One walked away and hoped their plan would work.

Wyatt and Chris turned back to their game as Billie sat down on a bench close by, watching over the kids. None of them knew that behind all of this were two plans colliding. The family's and Billie's.

---

HOURS LATER

Billie's eyes wandered over the place where the boys were playing, yet it was clear that Wyatt and Chris were getting tired. She'd noticed that Wyatt had observed her, unnoticed hopefully but she had.

"Hey Billie," Chris's voice rang out. "Your work done?"

"Well," she began nervously. "Almost. Where's your brother?"

"He fell asleep on the grass," the young boy said and pointed behind him. "I guess he was too busy with focussing on something. Hehe, he paid for that."

Billie grinned suddenly. "Oh. Then we shouldn't disturb him, should we?" She took Chris's hand. "How about you'll come with me now? We'll leave a note for your family behind, okay?"

Chris was torn as something deep inside in him began to awaken. He had a good nose for this but trusted Billie for the moment since Wyatt was not available right now. "Okay," he whispered and let Billie guide him to the door.

Stopping at the door, Billie only offered, "I only write down the note for your family and then we're going, Chris. Aren't you exited?"

"A bit. I mean I was only longer at Grandpa alone before."

"It'll be okay, I promise." The young woman finally finished the note, took Chris's hand again and guided him to her car. "Alright, hop in." She helped him, of course and then did the same on her side. "We're going to have fun, Chris!" And she took off with the boy—back to her university where Christy and Dumain were already waiting for her.

What neither of them noticed that a pair of blue eyes was following their every move.

---

AT UNIVERSITY

When they arrived, Billie quickly took Chris out of her car and ran to her room, earning some strange looks which she fully ignored. She was used to them by now. Entering her room, the young witch said, "Hey you two. I got him! Mission finished."

Dumain appeared out of nowhere. "Not yet but let me at first magically seal the room." At Billie's horrified look, he fast added, "Don't worry, it'll look normal for anyone else outside. And now let me concentrate."

"Right," Billie said and started to play with Chris, again but he didn't react. "Chris, what's wrong? C'mon, play with me!"

"Where are we?" the boy simply asked and looked still fascinated around. "It's so big!"

"More like huge," Billie explained smiling. "We're at a school where adults go to. One day you might too." Then she showed him the other two persons. "This is my big sister Christy and this is her teacher Dumain. We've learned a lot from him."

"Like Daddy?" Chris wanted to know curiously. The story sounded familiar to him but it felt strange as well.

"Yeah, like your Daddy. Alright, now Christy and I want to show you something impressive. Dumain, are you ready?"

"Indeed," Dumain said smiling and walked behind the boy, hands on his shoulders. "Now Chrissie, you'll see a greater power than you've ever known."

"It's Chris!" he insisted and tried to shrug the man off. It didn't work. "And, there's no greater power than the Charmed Ones and the Twice-Blessed."

"You'll see, boy." Dumain nodded to the two sisters who immediately linked their hands. The room began to shake and several things broke down. "See, Chris, that's what we call the 'Ultimate Power', stronger than anything else!"

Hoping not to show it but Chris was afraid. He could feel the power and he feared for his family. Chris tugged on the man's long jacket. "Hey. I get it, man. But what do you want from me?"

Dumain stopped the girls with his hand before kneeling down. "You, my boy, are tied to a special power under your house. It's called the Nexus and we want to have access to it—through you. What do you say, my boy?"

"I'm not your boy!" Chris protested immediately but then became shy, again. "I mean you took me for this, right?"

"Indeed." There was a knock on the door. Dumain whispered now, holding the boy even more tightly, "Find out who this is. I'll take the boy with me. Christy knows where to find me then."

"No!" Christy quickly cut in. "I'll come with you since Billie pretended to look for me, so I can't be here."

Dumain accepted nodding. "Alright." To Billie, he said, "Be careful with your words. We're going now." And he shimmered the three of them away.

Billie took a deep breath and opened the door smiling. To her shock, or surprise, there were the Charmed Ones, Leo and Wyatt. "What can I do for you, guys?" she asked innocently.

All had sterned looks on their faces before Billie let them in her room.

---

MANOR—20 MINUTES BEFORE

Wyatt's patience was growing thin as he waited for his family to arrive. After all, he'd followed the plan and his baby brother was taken! Great, why had he agreed to this?!

"Wyatt? Are you here?" his mother's voice called out afraid. "What's happened?"

Wyatt ran to her. "Mommy, I did as told. Chris was took by Billie!"

"Taken, honey and it's okay. That's what we guessed," Piper said calmly but inside she was furious and just wanted her baby back. "Calm down and sense your brother while I call the others!" The mother did it the normal and magical way.

Wyatt, meanwhile, focused all his energy on his baby brother and sensed him at a huge school. Then, after some time, his signal was gone. "Mom? I lost it!" he yelled and ran to her. "Mom! Whoa, all here? That's quick."

Leo knelt down. "Son, we expected this and so we only waited for your call. So, now tell me, where's Chris at the moment?"

"Well," he began nervously. "At first he was at this huge school, and then it was gone. I lost Chris!"

Leo turned to Paige. "It's as we thought. Billie must have help here. Paige, did the scrying work?"

"For Billie, yes. She's at her university which means we should hurry." The youngest Charmed One took her sisters' hands while Piper held also her husband and son's hands. "Right."

Paige initiated the orb and the whole family landed in front of Billie's room. Looking at all, who nodded, she simply knocked on the door and it was opened by Billie who smiled at them.

---

NOW, IN BILLIE'S ROOM

"So Billie, that's how you live," Piper began slowly and started to walk around. "Nice place, by the way but where's Chris? You've come in with him and don't deny it! You were seen."

Billie sat down smirking. "You're right, Piper and I won't tell you where your son is. Just know that he's safe at the moment."

"Great. Where?" Leo asked incredulously. "In the underworld?" Billie nodded. "Oh my God! What have you done with him?"

"Nothing yet but you know as well as I do which role he plays in the magical world."

Piper, Leo and Wyatt's anger grew but Phoebe had a question. "Have you found your sister meanwhile, Billie? I mean, that's why you came to us in the first place."

"She has," came a new voice and all turned to it. "My name's Christy and it was ME who found her. And I should let you know that we both are called the 'Ultimate Power' if you might have heard of it already."

"I have," Leo cut in quickly. "Or at least, Piper and I have. Tell us now where our son is!"

"He is somewhere safe and you can't find him," Christy said smirking. "Oh, it's really a shame. The almighty Charmed Ones have lost their youngest progeny! We're really smart, aren't we?" Laughter was heard. "What?" she asked irritated.

"What do you say if we let this happen?" Paige explained now smiling. "You know Chris is very clever, even at this young age and he knew this would happen and also by whom. Yeah, so we were prepared and planned all this."

Two mouths hung open in disbelief. "Yeah, they are just as dumb as the cliché says," another male voice chimed in, startling the others. "Hello, my name's Dumain and I'm Christy's mentor, to be honest. And I bet you don't know who's standing behind us, do you?"

"I take a wild guess," Leo cut in, again and smiled as well. "We'd met a very talkative demon some time ago and he mentioned the Triad were back. So am I right?" He crossed his arms over the chest and waited for their reaction.

Dumain growled loudly. "Damn Zankou and his big mouth!" He smiled again. "Anyway, we'll have your son and it's going to be a while for him this way. So you're going to say what we want."

"Let my brother go if you want to live!" Wyatt's voice shouted angrily through the room and his powers reacted it. "Let him go!"

"Young man, don't threaten me, or us if you want to see your little brother again. And now excuse us, we need to take care of our little guest." Dumain bowed slightly and shimmered with Billie and Christy away, leaving the Halliwells behind in shock.

---

MANOR, HOURS LATER

The door rattled in the house as Piper, Leo and Wyatt entered. Phoebe and Paige had gone earlier to their men and hoped to seek comfort from them in this situation. However, Piper and Leo held onto each other, only if not to break down in front of their son.

Wyatt turned to his parents with tired and red eyes. "How could this happen?" he whispered afraid and hurt. "I swore to always protect him and now I failed, because I listened to your stupid plan!" he shouted angrily. All of a sudden he ran to their shared room and slammed the door furiously. Looking at his brother's bed, Wyatt began to cry again and didn't realize that, in the end, he cried himself to sleep.

The parents watched concerned after their fleeing son before slowly walking upstairs to their bedroom where they laid down.

"What do we do, Leo?" Piper whispered and snuggled deeper into her husband.

"I don't know but destiny can't be that hard."

Both of them fell quickly asleep, hoping that their son was in a good shape. And destiny wouldn't be really that cruel.

TBC.....

---

Hope that satisfies your expectations! And my titles are mostly well chosen. I think clearly in different ways than the original authors.

COMMENTS ANYONE?

Next time: Of Angels and the Triad (chapter title)

On my profile on FF.net (Chris's Adorer) is a poll for an Interlude I already wrote and it's to be decided if it should be placed within (Interlude) or an one-shot (new title)!! Please vote if you can. Thanks in advance!!

[Tim]

On my profile on FF.net (Chris's Adorer) is a poll for an Interlude I already wrote and it's to be decided if it should be placed within (Interlude) or an one-shot (new title)!! Please vote if you can. Thanks in advance!!

Hey, Jana, I just voted in your poll.


Good update. Interesting that, thanks to the boys, the Charmed Ones uncover the truth about Billie and Christy much earlier than they did in Reality Prime. Of course, your S8 makes a heck of a lot more sense, the Charmed Ones come across as much better written characters.

[Tim]

To Tim: Thanks for voting but it's going very slow. Only two have voted so far! I'll keep you up to date.

---

7. Of Angels & the Triad

THE UNDERWORLD

Chris was sitting in a crystal cage and was bored to death. He knew where he was and also could sense a powerful presence close by. The man had also gone and now he was all alone. Out of nowhere, a toy appeared and he was pleased. "Thank you," he said to no one.

Dumain returned and looked at the young boy satisfied. He was playing with a toy. "Mylords, we have the boy," he said to the nothing and three men appeared. "And it seemed that Leo had known already about you."

Asmodeus nodded. "Guessed so. Damn Zankou and his sneaking."

"Indeed." Candor nodded as well and turned to their third companion. "What do we do with the boy?"

"Keep him," Baliel replied and looked at the boy disgusted. "He'll lead us one day, I'm sure, yet I can't understand why the Elders allowed to let witches and whitelighters marry! Really."

"I'm sorry, Mylord," Dumain cut in bowing. "But I don't think the Elders' politics are important at the moment." He gestured to the boy. "What about him? The Halliwells want to have him back for sure."

Asmodeus pushed Dumain to Chris. "You raised Christy well for us and I'm sure you can do the same with him. His brother is the Twice-Blessed, his mother a Charmed One and his Daddy a former Elder."

"And as we've found out he was the one who time travelled before. To save his big brother," Baliel added. "Do all necessary to entertain the boy!"

"What he said," Caliel just said and went out of the cave. His other two colleagues simply followed him, leaving Dumain shocked behind.

The man sighed and turned to the boy who looked up at him curiously. He knelt down and said in a hopeful tone, "Well, Chrissie, do you want to have more toys or anything else?"

"I'll miss my cat," Chris offered sadly. "Can I have one too?"

"Well, I see what can be arranged. But as I heard it, you conjured your cat."

Chris blushed a bit. "Maybe, but it was a birthday wish. So, can I get one?"

"You behave well while I speak with the nice men from before," Dumain explained and conjured some more toys for the boy. He stood up again and ran after the men.

Chris watched all of this confused. He didn't quite understand what they were talking about but knew he was in danger. Why were they always after him now? His brother is the Twice-Blessed and not him! Still, he had enough toys to play with now but inside, the boy wanted to be saved by his family.

---

AT THE MANOR

Wyatt refused to speak with his parents the next morning as he entered the kitchen. The young boy just sat down on his chair and looked sadly at the empty chair next to him. Sighing, he began to eat the pancakes his mother had made. Well, normally his baby brother would have helped her.

Piper watched with tears in her eyes as her eldest boy began to eat her breakfast. She too had missed her baby boy while making it. The mother guessed he blamed them for losing his little brother. How right he was since she blamed herself as well. "Wyatt, we're sorry but I promise we're going to get him back," she said and hoped Leo would appear soon.

And he did. Looking at his eldest and wife, Leo knew instantly what was wrong. Chris was missing and it was felt anywhere in the house. No wonder that Wyatt blamed them since he did himself as well. Sighing, he said, "I know you want him back and so do we, Wyatt. We're going to fight for him. No matter what."

"Though this wasn't my original plan but Chris will be back, I promise Wyatt," said a new voice and all turned to it in hope. The boy stood up and slowly walked to the stranger who knelt down to his level. "Your brother is a strong person and so are you."

"Who are you?" Wyatt asked shyly but still felt a calmness coming from her. "Is Chris okay?"

"For the moment yes but to answer your first question, I'm one of many Angels of Destiny and your Mommy met one of us already, didn't you Piper," the woman explained calmly and smiled at the boy.

"Yeah, we did," Piper replied irritated and took Leo's hand for support. "What are you doing here?"

She looked up at the parents. "I came to prepare you for your last big battle, the Ultimate one. It was intended for me to take Leo but Billie and Christy have obviously beaten me by taken Chris. The other side has a plan as well, regarding your son's ties to the Shadow."

"Oh, okay," Leo said astonished and shrugged his shoulders. "Anyway, can I ask you something?" She nodded. "Are Billie and Christy the Ultimate Power?"

The woman's mouth dropped open in shock. "How did you find this out, Leo? You can't know yet."

The man smiled a bit, despite the situation. "With some good ol' research in Magic School, and Zankou had told us earlier about the Triad being back again."

"I'm impressed, I think," the Angel of Destiny said and stood up, again. Still hugging Wyatt to her, she went on, "You'll be getting Chris back if you fight these two. You've been lucky so far, so be careful! Extra careful." And she was gone the next second.

"Okay, that was weird," Piper commented dryly and sat down. "After breakfast, I'm going to inform my sisters about this new situation."

"Good idea," Leo agreed and took Wyatt in his arms. "You'll see, son. Chris will be back in no time and then you two can play together again. Your Mommy and aunts will fight tooth and nail to get Chris back."

"You sure?" Wyatt asked unsure and bit his bottom lip.

"Yes," Leo said smiling.

"Hey you two. My breakfast is getting cold and it's edible," Piper demanded sternly and her two men obeyed immediately.

The rest of the morning went ahead in silence. Wyatt thought about the woman's words, their bond and destiny. His Mom called, as promised, his aunts and explained that they'd meet at P3, to talk about battle plans. Whatever that meant, and in the end, Leo took his son with him to Magic School.

---

IN THE UNDERWORLD

Chris was frightened to no end in his cage but hoped not to show it openly. Okay, this guy was nice but he had a strange voice in his young ears. Too sweet, too nice as if to butter him up! Yeah, right. Rolling his eyes, Chris began to observe his vicinity again. He needed to find out as much as possible.

Dumain did the same from the other side of the cage. He quickly realized that the boy seemed to be very clever but was also deeply afraid. What was normal in this kind of situation, so he thought. The demon was aware that this boy could change anything with his powers. It must lay within him.

"Dumain!" Asmodeus bellowed and the demon ran over and bowed. "What does the boy do?"

"He's very quiet and afraid. But he's listening which shows how smart the boy already is."

"I see. What about his powers?"

"They're blocked by the cage, I think. Why are you asking, Master?"

"Because this boy has time travelled before and might do it again if we win," Baliel explained calmly and watched the boy closely. "We can't allow him to grow up."

"Where have I heard that before?" Dumain muttered under his breath, yet he was heard.

"If you refer to Gideon and his obsession with Wyatt, you are right, friend," Candor said, stepping out of the shadow at least. "All witches must be killed when the Ultimate and Charmed power collide."

"True," Asmodeus agreed and laid one hand on Dumain's shoulder. "This was your great plan, my friend. This mere boy is only one part of the big game."

"Indeed," the demon said smiling. "What about his ties to the Shadow of the Manor?"

All three Triad members looked at each other and then started to grin. "We will think about this," Baliel said for all three of them before they were gone again.

Dumain sighed and turned back to the boy who had watched all this fascinated. If he would read and understand them. Walking over, he sat down in front of the young boy again.

"Why me?" Chris whispered afraid.

"You and your brother are very special but you are more in some ways," Dumain explained calmly. "We need you for our plan, to let your family be distracted from us."

"Oh." Chris became quiet again.

"Don't worry. We'll provide a security net for you." Dumain looked at the boy but remained quiet after this statement.

Chris turned to the wall and blocked all noises out. He was afraid and wished his big brother were here and the young boy began to cry silently.

---

MAGIC SCHOOL

Wyatt was playing with his toys in his Daddy's room at the school. He was bored still, but all of a sudden he felt something—as if he were being called. And there was only one person who could do that: Chris. Should he tell his Daddy? Of course, he knew all.

"Ehm, Daddy?" the young boy started slowly and Leo looked up. "I felt something and I believe it's Chris."

Leo said nothing at first but then stood up, walking over to his son. "You are sure, aren't you? I believe you, son. Must be that bond of yours."

Wyatt raised an eyebrow. "Bond?" he asked confused.

Leo smiled a bit and explained, "A bond is a deep connection between siblings, like Mommy and the aunts have. You two as brothers share the same. So why has Chris called you?"

Wyatt nodded and then said, "Okay. He......he's afraid there, and that's why Chris called me. And he doesn't know why it's him. Always."

Leo grabbed his son and held him tight. "I know, buddy, I know. It's quite natural to feel that way in the underworld but we'll get him back, I promise."

Again a nod on his Daddy's shoulder before Wyatt began to cry, "I just miss him so much, Daddy and want him! He's my baby brother, damn it."

"Shsh, buddy and don't swear! If your Mommy would hear it," Leo said soothingly and tried to calm his son down which did not work well. Because he felt the same way and because he'd lost his youngest son before. "Shsh. Everything is going to be okay."

"You.....you promise?" Wyatt hiccuped and clung tighter to his Daddy.

Leo kissed him on his forehead. "I promise, and now let's play a bit. It'll distract us for the time being, okay?"

Wyatt nodded and quickly wiped his tears away. "Okay," he said and turned back to his toys.

Leo followed him and watched sadly how he played, yet sniffled from time to time. Around five minutes later, his son fell asleep crying and the father smiled as he put the boy into his crib here. Silence ruled the room for a few minutes until Leo heard raised voices. Sighing he went to them.

---

SAME PLACE, OTHER ROOM

Piper had gathered her two younger sisters in the Great Hall, especially after the cryptic visit from the Angel of Destiny. She knew what she had to do but how could she convince her sisters? Would not be easy, so to speak.

"Hi Piper, you wanted to see us," Phoebe greeted her sister smiling. "What's up?"

"Well, we've got a visit from an Angel of Destiny this morning and she told us we'd have to fight the Ultimate Power, meaning Billie and her sister."

"Wait," Paige cut in irritated. "You want us to kill two witches?! You're kidding, right?"

"No, I'm not," Piper defended herself angrily. "This is about Chris, for God's sake! We need to get him back, even if we have to fight witches! It's our order."

"Order?" the middle sister requested confused. "Are we workers now? For an Angel or for the Elders? You always denied this, Piper."

"I know but for this, we exist. You both know that! We've been given this task—by our ancestors and we have to show this life our children. So, don't question this!"

"I'm aware of this, Piper, really." Phoebe sighed and looked at her older and younger sisters. "I just don't think that I can kill a young witch. Though I don't know her well enough, still it goes against my values and morals."

Piper scoffed.

"I agree with her, Piper. I know her, yeah, not well too but still. It's not right," Paige added and took her oldest sister by the arm.

"Let go of me," she demanded furiously. "I understand. You two want to sacrifice your youngest nephew for your values?! Well then, hadn't he done this before—enough! For us, for his family." She was shouting now but she didn't care.

"Of course not!" Phoebe shouted back. "It's just not right!"

"Would you three be quiet!" Leo barged in, quite as furious as his wife. "Wyatt's finally sleeping after I convinced him that we'd get Chris back, no matter what. So, what's the problem here?"

The three sisters looked at each other before Piper exploded once again, "Well, my lovely sisters here refuse to kill Billie and her sister, because they're witches as well. Still, they have Chris and that's our major priority, clear?"

"True," Leo agreed immediately and eyed the other two angrily but mainly Phoebe. "So your morals and values weigh now more than the life of our son, your nephew?! Tell me, where were those when it came to Cole or your search for Coop, eh? Tell me, please."

Phoebe gasped shocked but Paige broke down. "You are right, I'm sorry. It's just.....we never thought that we'd have to kill other witches. They are so young, in our eyes, I think. That'd be the main reason for our interference." She cried softly.

Piper hugged her baby sister in relief. "Thanks Paige." She now turned to her other one. "Phoebe?"

The middle sister began to sob quietly. "I just don't know what's gotten into me lately." She looked up in tears. "I never seem to help Chris nowadays. And also ignore his warnings. Damn it! What's wrong with me?"

"I don't think there is," Leo said and hugged her to his chest. "Maybe someone is playing with your head. After all, we know that the Triad is behind this and they can play with minds. Billie has the information, I'm sure."

"But how?" Paige asked confused.

"I don't know but I intend, I mean, we intend to find out." The man sighed. "Alright, I think I should return to Wyatt. See, if he's awake. You three find out more about this Ultimate Power—who they are and what the Triad wants now."

"Okay," Piper said and kissed her husband briefly. "And now go!" She turned back to the other two and focused on their task.

Leo walked back to his own office and smiled as he saw that his son was still sleeping in peace. It seemed that the boy hadn't heard anything of their disput. Sighing, he sat at his desk again and began to work on his papers again.

---

UNDERWORLD

Dumain watched the boy sighing. The boy was still looking at the wall and refused to speak with him. Obviously his little speech hadn't worked well. "Chris, it'll be fine, believe me," he said and then Christy appeared out of nowhere. "Excuse me." He stood up and grabbed her away. "What's going on?"

The young witch grinned all of a sudden. "Your mind spell worked and Billie could link herself with Phoebe. She could stop her from helping to rescue the boy."

"Good." Dumain looked at the boy once again. "Work on that more, because I'm sure they believe in Billie and you being the Ultimate Power which they have to fight."

"But they don't know me! I mean, they haven't seen me yet."

"Leo works at Magic School, so their resources are endless. They know, believe me."

"Wonderful," Christy stated and crossed her arms over the chest. She looked at the boy as well. "Has he spoken anything? At all?"

Dumain nodded. "Yeah. Just wondered why it was him who's always taken. Normally, it'd be his big brother, yet destiny has been changed. By him."

"He doesn't know about it, does he?"

"No. I doubt his family would tell him at such a young age. For whatever reason, however, Wyatt seemed to know or remember."

"Ah. I see." Christy watched her mentor closely and asked curiously, "What about our next step? What has the Triad suggested? Billie and I think we're ready to meet them."

An uncertain look crossed Dumain's face as he looked briefly behind him. "Yes, that's okay, I guess. But remember, the Charmed Ones and the Twice-Blessed child are the most powerful witches on Earth, yet with Chris we have an advantage. So, don't worry."

Christy nodded and returned to Billie, telling her about this new plan. Dumain also returned to his task, watching the boy and hoped that his decision was right. The Triad wanted to get rid of all witches and if those two powers collide, their wish was granted.

"Good work, Dumain," came a faint whisper.

The demon grinned and then nodded. All went like planned, though some things were already revealed. It didn't matter.

TBC.....

---

Hope that satisfies your expectations and you'll stay tuned here.

COMMENTS ANYONE?

Next time: A 'powerful' meeting

[Tim]

Once again, Jana, I must say that you've done a great job in bringing together several plot lines from the final seasons. You've found a to make them all work, even though they originally had nothing to do with one another.

[Tim]

To Tim: Yes, I have a talent in bringing all together and also giving them sense.

---

8. A 'powerful' Meeting

TWO WEEKS LATER

Piper had called her sisters once again since she'd received this weird letter two days ago. After this, Leo had locked himself with Wyatt at Magic School and so she was alone. Well, it's time to do something!

"Hey Phoebe, welcome home," she greeted them smiling. "Paige, hi. How's life?"

"Well," the youngest Charmed One said sighing. "My whitelighter duties are doing well, yet my love life seems to be on hold for some reason. Yours, Phoebe?"

The middle sister sighed as well. "In the same situation like yours, Paige but Coop is part of the magical world and so he understands. Anyway," Phoebe said and looked at the oldest of them. "Piper, why did you call us?"

"Thanks. I got this strange letter from Billie and I'd like to have your opinion on this," Piper offered nervously. "Well, let's open it then."

"Where's Leo, by the way?" Paige wanted to know curiously. "And Wyatt too? Where are they?"

"Magic School—for both. When we got this letter, Leo since then insists that the Triad might have a bigger plan behind this and he wants to find this out, by all means."

"He seems more behind this?" Phoebe requested stunned. "I think he could be right. The Triad is known for that, to have long-term plans for whatever reason. So what stands in the letter?"

"They want to meet us. At a neutral place and as they say, just for some talks," Piper offered, reading further. "Mmh, it looks like the sisters only want to talk and not to fight."

"Any word about Chris?" Paige asked afraid. She worried about her nephew more than ever but it was justified by losing him before.

The mother of two boys shook her head slightly, silently crying. "Just that he'd be safe and stay in their hands for the time being. Which means until we might have solved this problem or come to a conclusion."

"Great," Phoebe said sighing. "What do we do now? Wait for Leo or Billie and her sister?"

"Whatever comes first," Piper concluded finally. "I say we'll wait. You two can visit your lovers until we'll get another letter. And now excuse me, I'm going to visit my husband and son." And just as fast, she was gone through a magical door.

Phoebe and Paige looked at each other. "Well then, it was nice to see you again but you know, we are just busy now," Paige said smiling and hugged her older sister lovingly.

"I know," Phoebe agreed, hugging her as well. "Besides, we have also our men now beside us. Coop and Henry are truly treasures, don't you think?"

"Indeed," Paige agreed sighing. "Do we wait here or do we call our men here, for distraction?"

"I don't know." Phoebe rubbed her hands over the cheeks. "My feeling tells me we should stay close by, because it might happen soon. Very soon."

Paige sat down and her older sister followed. "Alrighty done," she said calmly. "Let's chat then and just talk." And so the two sisters began to talk and wait for their older sister's return.

---

MAGIC SCHOOL

Piper had found her husband and son rather easily but this letter from Billie was disturbing her. And Leo's magical knowledge was huge and besides, this was Magic School. It had books, books and books.

"Piper, what are you doing here? What's going on?" Leo asked confused as his wife appeared in front of him. He was playing with Wyatt at the moment but his research hadn't stopped.

She smiled at both of them before turning serious, again. "I've got a letter from Billie and she wants to meet us, along with her sister. Since you locked yourself here, I had to come here. Anyway, what do you think of this meeting?"

"I don't know, but I don't like it, to be honest."

"Thought so," Piper offered sighing. "Anyway, what and how is your research going? Still believe that there's more behind this, eh?"

"Yeah," Leo replied standing up and looked at his wife angrily. "The Triad is back, in case you didn't notice, and I do believe that they always plan more, so that their side would win—finally."

"Great. And what is this?"

"Killing all witches or anything else, I don't know. I can't know all."

Piper kissed him briefly. "I know." She did the same with her son. "Be brave, Wyatt and Chris will be back before you realize it." She turned around and waved good-bye. "I should go back before my sisters decide to burn our house down."

Leo chuckled softly. "They wouldn't do that. They have grown up by now. Okay, but still, be careful! You never know."

Piper only nodded and went back to the Manor. Still, there was a nagging feeling in her stomach and that Leo could be right in the end. However this meeting might end, Leo would find a way to reverse this, that she was sure of.

---

BACK AT THE MANOR

"Hey sis, you're right on time," Phoebe greeted her older sister as she returned home. The middle sister waved a new letter. "You've just received this new one. Ready to open it?"

"Sure." Piper grabbed it out of Phoebe's hand. "Give it to me." She tore the letter open, overread it quickly and gasped shocked. The letter fell down and she only sat down, saying nothing.

"Piper, what's wrong?" Paige asked concerned and retook the letter in her hands. Reading it, she offered to Phoebe, "They want to meet us at the Golden Gate Park. As soon as possible. It seemed like we'd talk at first."

"Golden Gate Park?" Phoebe requested again and looked at Piper as well. "Piper, are you alright? What shocked you this much?"

"The park is........will be a special place for Chris, in the future." She hiccuped a bit. "Besides, from this place out, our little fight could do a lot of damage. To the city and us, of course."

"Great," Paige summed up in sarcasm. "That'd mean Leo is right. Wonderful. Do we die again?"

"Could be logical result. Naturally." Piper sighed and looked at her sisters in expectation. "What do we do now? Though for me, it's clear: I fight—for my baby boy!"

Paige and Phoebe shared a quick look before nodding. "We're with you," the middle sister said proudly. "We owe Chris so much. We'd do anything for him."

"Agreed," the youngest sister added smiling. "So when do we go?"

"Soon," Piper concluded firmly. "But at first we should focus ourselves on our enemies and find the strength to battle them. It goes about the future. Again."

The other two sisters followed their sister's advice and took a seat next to her. Taking their hands into each other's, the Power of Three hoped for the best and of course, to survive. The 'Ultimate Power' was just as powerful as the 'Power of Three'. Not easy!

---

DEEP DOWN IN THE UNDERWORLD

A lair was suddenly more crowded than before. Dumain bowed slightly in front of the Triad. "Your plan is set in motion," he said smiling. "The two sets of sisters will meet soon."

"Good," Baliel said satisfied. "Where's their meeting point if you know?"

"Golden Gate Park, I think."

Asmodeus smiled even more. "Even better. The effect of those two powers meeting will be immense. No more witches, and evil will finally reign."

"Indeed," Candor agreed and put his hand on Dumain's shoulder. "You served us well, my friend and raised even Christy on our behalf. We will feel when the battle is out!"

"Well," Dumain began nervously. "What about Leo and Wyatt? And Chris who is still in our hands, by the way."

The Triad looked at each other before nodding. "Bring the boy to us," Baliel said for all of them. "We'll look after him from now on. As for Leo and Wyatt, we'll deal with them when time comes, alright?"

Dumain bowed again and shimmered away. In less than a minute later, he returned with the boy who looked curiously around. "Here, Mylords. Chris Halliwell. I'm gone then. Just call me if you need me again." He began to shimmer away as the boy was taken out of his arms.

"So this is our pledge," Asmodeus said after taking the boy into his arms. "Still, how could this little boy be a hero?"

"He will be, later," Candor explained calmly and looked as well at the boy. "But now he has an ability to let us survive for centuries. Or aeons."

"Time travel," Baliel concluded smiling and stroked his hand over the boy's head. "Don't you like us, boy?"

Chris Halliwell, however, was only confused as he was held by this strange man and all watched him. He didn't like this at all. He was no prize!

---

GOLDEN GATE PARK

"Where are they, for Pete's sake?" Christy demanded furiously while pacing around. "For the most powerful beings on Earth, they could be punctual." She sighed.

"Hey," Billie defended them quickly. "We didn't give them an exact time to meet us. By the way, I'm sure Piper wants to say good-bye first to her family and the other two to their new men. Bah, ugly!"

"Hey," came Piper's voice out of nowhere. "No insults without really knowing us! Besides, where's Chris?"

"Safe, and out of your reach," the older blonde Jenkins said calmly. "Oops, I forgot. We haven't been introduced yet. My name's Christy Jenkins, Billie's older sister and I was raised by the Triad for years."

"Well, that explains a lot," Phoebe offered smugly. "No manners! How long were you there, by the way?"

"Long enough."

"Wonderful," Phoebe said, amused as well before turning to Billie. "I take it you were in my head some time ago. So not fair into tricking me! I do care about my little nephews, especially Chris. We won't give up and fight you with all our weapons."

"Neither do we and so do we." Christy looked at her younger sister and nodded. "How do we fight? The classical way or power to power?"

"Whatever comes first," said Piper and took a step back. "Without me, it's a fair fight, so have fun!" She smiled and nodded briefly at her sisters. Hoping their plan would work.

The moment they wanted to start their fight, voices could be heard and those whispered only, 'Use the Hollow' or 'Call the Hollow'. The Halliwells knew what that meant and they weren't happy, naturally while the Jenkins were clueless.

"What is the Hollow?" Christy wanted to know confused but her sister could only shrug.

"You don't want to know, believe me," Piper cut in quickly and her sisters agreed nodding. "We've met it before and we just managed to survive, though barely. It was horrible."

Christy then grinned, knowing what she had to do now. After all, she was raised by the Triad. There was only one goal in her mind. "Then it is the best weapon to kill you." Her younger sister gave her a look but was silenced with a stern one from her.

"Oh great, we're in trouble," Phoebe said nervously. "Does anyone of you remember the spell to release the Hollow?"

"There's a spell for it?" Billie whispered irritated. "By your look, I take it we call it when they do, right?"

"Smarty," Christy said such as quiet. "If they suggest this, they're desperate. The Triad is wise." Billie rolled her eyes. "I know so. Believe me, this is our ultimate goal."

Meanwhile, Phoebe had seemed to remember the spell and told her sisters that. "I think I remember. It's a bit hard and not easy. Are you guys ready for this kind of power?"

Paige nodded quickly. "Yeah, whatever it takes to get Chris back."

Piper felt the same and took her sisters' hands, ready to say the spell. "Agreed. We need to get my baby boy back at whatever cost. Since my boys are our future, or the start of it. All right, Phoebe, start the spell."

The middle sister took a deep breath and began to recite,
Nos dico super inconcessus vox.
Bonus quod malum
Ultirusque a profugus,
Addo is hic, addo is iam.

Soon there was an echo, coming from the Jenkins.

And then shortly, both set of sisters looked up as black particles came out of nowhere and went into the Jenkins and Halliwells. All were shocked but then they were back to normal.

"Now that's more our way," Christy said and tested the new powers. "Cool."

"Stop that kick of yours!" Piper demanded furiously and tried to control these new powers. It didn't work. "Let's end this! Once and for all."

Angrily looking at each other, the five of them held out their hands and let the massive power out. It was fast sure that it was too much. The powers could only collide heavily—with sparkles—and a great cataclysmic explosion followed, leaving a crater behind. This crater was massive and it drew attention to them. There was nothing.

---

SEVERAL HOURS LATER

Leo was grading papers with Wyatt playing at his feet as the TV came to life. The news was running and it became louder as well. The reporter said, "We're here at the Golden Gate Park where a massive crater is seen. From eye witnesses, we've heard that there was a great explosion caused by some great power use."

The man looked up now. "What? What's going on here? Wyatt, did you do this?" His son shook his head quickly. "Okay, just asking. But what's going on?"

The news continued still. "As the police and fire department recently confirmed several bodies were found within the crater, they're hard to identify. However, meanwhile it could be cleared that the bodies of Piper and Phoebe Halliwell as well as Paige Matthews were found. The other two seemed to be Billie Jenkins, a young student, as well as her older sister Christy. I'm so sorry for their families. Nancy O'Dell, San Francisco."

Leo's pen dropped in shock. He couldn't believe his ears and immediately took Wyatt in his lap, calming him. His eldest son didn't seem to understand all of this but he would one day. Leo wondered though if the Triad would also tell his youngest son.

A pink heart appeared in front of Leo and Wyatt. It was Coop, Phoebe's lover. "I've just heard, Leo. I'm so sorry, man. What are you going to do now, Leo?"

"I don't know yet," Leo offered slowly and looked at the Cupido perplexed. "What are you doing here, Coop? Where's Henry?"

Coop sighed and watched father and son sadly. "I'm trying to help you if you let me, that is. I could take care of Wyatt, Victor and Henry while you try to find a solution. You know them best."

Leo stood up furiously. "And what do you suggest I do? It's not as if I could go back....." He stopped all of a sudden. "Oh my. That's it! Time travel, but how?"

"Not with my ring, that's for sure," Coop said and played with it. "The ring depends on love but you need a special point in time, like a spell. So what about my offer for Wyatt, Victor and Henry?"

The father gave his son over. "Take good care of him as well as the others. Treat them like your family who they are soon, anyway. Alright, let's do this."

Coop nodded and started to heart out. "Good luck, Leo. You're going to need it." A hand laid on the man's shoulder before finally hearting away, Wyatt in tow. He'd take good care of them as promised.

Leo calmed himself and went to the library. Time travel section, and the father read all he could but it was not much. He'd need help. Obviously.

---

THE TRIAD'S LAIR

"I can't believe that it worked," Baliel announced proudly. "The most powerful witches are gone, so our side has the upper hand now. I wonder though what the Elders might think at this moment."

"It doesn't matter," Candor said and gestured to the boy in the cage. "He's the one who could solve it but he's in our hands. He might have felt what had happened. So who tells him?"

Asmodeus sighed not happily. "Let me do it since I haven't had the honor yet to speak with the boy. Anyway, where's Dumain?"

"Somewhere around here in the underworld. Why?" The other two looked at each other confused.

"Just asking. Alright, let me be the bearer of the bad news." Asmodeus cleared his throat and walked over to the cage, kneeling down to the boy's level. "Hey Chris, how are you? I'm here to tell you something bad."

"Fine," Chris whispered in tears. "Wha' it?"

"Well, you see, your Mommy and aunties died in a battle with Billie, your babysitter, and her sister. I'm so sorry, son." Inside, however, he was pleased that it'd worked.

Chris sniffled and buried his head on his knees. "Not true. Mommy is well."

"It's true, okay? I'm sure you have felt it since you're just as strong as your brother, the Twice-Blessed child. Chris, you're more emotional than him," Asmodeus explained calmly and looked at the boy closely. "You know it's true."

Chris sobbed and curled up in himself. He couldn't believe it and hoped that his Daddy would bring them back somehow. The boy knew that his Daddy could do anything. His Daddy was his hero!

Asmodeus smiled and walked back to the other two. "Okay, he's lost in grief. I think we should celebrate our victory first before we start to kill the other witches. And the evil finally rules!"

The Triad clicked their glasses before calling Dumain back. They told him about their next steps and he was pleased as well. It was done.

---

MANOR

"Damn it!" Leo cursed loudly as he entered his home via a magical door. "And here I thought that the library had some information on time travel! It seems that I need to watch a movie again!"

"There's no need to," Roland said as he orbed in front of the pacing man. "You need to trust us, and also rely on your son Chris."

Leo snapped at him. "In case you hadn't noticed: He's been kidnapped by the Triad and still is, by the way. So how, on Earth, should he do it?"

Roland sighed and cleared his throat. "I meant the future version. He has the ability to help you, and he'll reach you soon. Be aware of this!" He quickly orbed away before the former Elder could explode.

But Leo was not in the mood. Defeated and crying, the man sat down and felt helpless. The mortal was truly alone, though parts of his family was still there. Coop was right, though he had no idea how this would work.

The Charmed Ones were dead, and so the evil had the upper hand at the moment. The Triad would kill all good witches who oppose them and Leo knew, better realized that this was their great goal all along! What had caused this explosion?

Leo knew what he had to do but hoped that his son would contact him soon. Or should he make the first step? He had no idea.

TBC.....

---

Hope that satisfies your curiosity well. And you might guess what follows next time but certainly different than expected!

COMMENTS ANYONE?

Next time: some time travel

[Tim]

Nicely done, Jana. Well worth the wait.

The Triad clinking glasses. I love it