|
Post by Tim on Sept 12, 2016 5:08:53 GMT -5
16. Confrontations
P 3 – OFFICE & CLUB
Music could be heard playing. Stephanie was working on the account of the club and was happy the P3 was still a good going night club. Her eyes searched for Wyatt and found him pacing through the room, with his hand on the chin, thinking about something. That made her smile.
"Hey Wy, can you check on the acustics again? It sounds a bit weird here, you know. If you do it, there's a surprise waiting for you tonight." She twinkled her eyes mischievously.
Wyatt shook his head laughing and kissed his wife on the lips. "I can't wait. I'll go now before you might kill me." He ran out of the office before she'd notice his insult.
Indeed Steph threw some stripes after him before going back to her work. There was laughter, some clattering noises and still music. Obviously the young husband had fun and then it was quiet. Too quiet for Steph's liking. Worried she ran out of the room and … found the band unconscious on the stage, but no Wyatt.
Panic rushed through her entire being and she was ready to call her brother-in-law right now, but at first she had to take care of the band. Walking up the stage she shook their bodies violently and after a few, long minutes they began to stir.
"Ouch," came a voice from the singer. "Steph, what the heck was that?" He looked around. "Where's Wyatt?"
"I don't know. Can you tell me what's happened?"
He nodded. "We were talking and laughing about normal stuff. All of a sudden we were flying to the wall but I was still a bit conscious and looked to Wyatt who was fighting. Weird. Anyway, then there was a flame, it was hot and puff. All was back to normal and I lost consciousness finally." He looked at the woman. "There was no Wyatt. Could I help you?"
"You did," Stephanie said. "If you excuse me now, I need to call Chris, Wyatt's brother. He's more help than all others." She stood up and walked back to the office where she frantically called for her brother-in-law. "Chris! Chris! Please, it's urgent. Wyatt's gone!"
"What?" Chris said before reforming and listened to the story his sister-in-law had to tell horrified.
AN INTERMEZZO: WYATT VS. LUCIFER
Wyatt couldn't exactly remember what had happened back at the club but as he was shoved hard to the ground, the blond realized it was suddenly too hot. Very hot. Looking around his eyes searched frantically for the person he knew to be here.
"So, you are the one who knows my every step before I do," the Prince of Darkness said as a greeting and revealed himself to the witch. "I must say I'm impressed."
"What do you want? Why did you kidnap me? It doesn't make any sense for you to act this way, you know," the witch answered bluntly with arms crossed over his chest.
"You're very hard to read. I take it you've learned from past mistakes. In a future where I indeed get your brother what gives me hope to at least catch him unexpected. Soon."
"Only over my dead body!"
"That can be arranged," the devil spoke amused. "As to answer your questions: I just want to get to know you. That's all. If I'm right, you already know what I'm going to do right now, isn't it?"
Wyatt smirked. "If you think to win this time, you surely are mistaken! If you lay one hand on my baby brother or poison him, you are dead. In more than one way, I promise."
"Just think where we are now, dear boy. In hell. My place if you remember." He looked at the young man. "You are the Twice-Blessed, the most powerful being in the world. Aren't you a bit jealous that your brother was now born half Elder? After all he did it himself by going to the past. To save you, I guess. Am I right?"
"If you think to turn the tables onto me, I need to repeat myself: You are mistaken! I've had dealt with those before, so you won't win."
"Really? Uh. You don't make that impression to me." As Wyatt was about to protest, he just waved his finger at him. "Eheh. Careful. You are in a world you don't understand. I'm sure your little brother would realize my play right now."
"What makes you so sure? You don't know him."
"Yet. After all he's able to change time – without any great help from the Elders. Just himself did this. No wonder, his own family was so suspicious. Have you not experienced this yourself recently?" Lucifer asked smirking, full knowing it was true.
"Maybe if I have, why are you so interested in? It only and mainly concerns me and my family. But hey, I think I know why you want him and who'd given you the idea."
"Well, if you're smart, then tell me. You are definitely different from what I've heard of you, being evil in a former life and so, I'm sure your sacrifices for your brother are still not enough to please anyone, right? It's mostly between you two. Like a competition." He looked at the witch, waiting for his reaction.
"Are you finished? Your useless speeches won't gain you anything! I know where my strength lies and there isn't anything for you to achieve here! So why did you kidnap me? It doesn't make any sense."
"It shouldn't for you but at least for me."
"And?" Wyatt snarled. "Have you learned anything useful so far? Because I think I didn't tell you anything. So why this stupid maneuver?"
"I was just curious why you always seem to be one step ahead of me. It seems more likely you knew what I was going to do before I did. What was weird, considering I just wanted to start my attack on your brother. The Avatars were helpful in that case as they gave me the needed information. Unfortunately they are now gone, so I had to spread out my minions, but again they were vanquished before they could report to me," Lucifer lashed out in rage.
"And whose fault is it? If it weren't for you, I wouldn't have been through this mess. You'd just happened to be lucky last time, but I won't let it happen now! Anytime someone was after him, he decided it was better to die!"
"He did?" the Prince requested incredulously. "Wow, the good must have installed in him for long! To react that way. How come?"
"No idea. He's always been that kind of man. As long as I know and remember." He sighed. "You still want him, don't you? He's the man who could change the past to your advantage and this is why you do. But I'll counter any attack from you."
"Are you sure you can? One day you'll lessen your observation of him and then I'll get him. It's only a matter of time and you know this. After all, you've already lived through it. What will you do if I achieve my goal once again?" the devil asked. "What, Twice-Blessed?"
Wyatt clenched his teeth angrily. "We'll see about it when it's time. We've been armed with knowledge …"
"… to fight against me? I take it, my old boss gave you those but it wouldn't help you, believe me. I know him, me and now you. So, I'm sure I'm going to win. I always do."
"We'll see," the blond answered. "I think we have cleared all by now. So if you would let me go, please?" He asked annoyed.
"Why?"
"Well, if I know my wife who is clearly concerned about me and who might have called my brother for help already! So if you excuse me."
"Sure. You can go if you could answer me one last question," Lucifer said calmly. His counterpart nodded. "Do you think you both would be able to win over me? As you know, a subsitute will follow soon."
"That's a fact we know for sure." Wyatt looked the devil straight into the eyes. "Yes, I'm sure we would win. As we Halliwells have won our fights against all our enemies. Even if some of them had returned lately."
"I've heard. Be free to go now."
The Twice-Blessed raised an eyebrow. "Just by orbing out? A minion of yours brought me here and now I can just orb? Are you sure you're the devil?"
The Prince of Darkness snorted in return. "You can believe me. I've lowered all barriers , so it's possible. It was up as long as we've talked. For protection and some quietness."
"Understandable. I take it we'll see each other soon enough." Wyatt saluted with his finger. "Bye bye." And the witch orbed out.
"Yeah. Bye bye." Lucifer looked after the orb trail. "I'll get little Christopher, my friend. One day he'll be mine."
BACK AT THE CLUB – FIVE MINUTES EARLIER
Chris and Steph were worried to no end. Wyatt was gone for over an hour now and still hadn't returned. The younger brother could only imagine it'd be Lucifer kidnapping his brother, though it wasn't making any sense to him. Sighing, he was glad to have sent the band home – with wiping their memory before. What luck to possess memory dust!
"Damn, where is he?" the brunette cursed a bit but looked up as an orb cloud formed.
Steph stood up and walked closer to Chris, grabbing him fearfully. As the orb cloud reformed, she and her brother-in-law sighed in relief. It was Wyatt. With tears in her eyes she ran to him and hugged him tightly. "God Wy! Where were you? I was so worried. Just gone without any sign. What's happened?"
Chris hugged his older brother as well. After he'd managed to push Wy's wife softly away smiling. She took it as wished. "I take it you paid a visit to our requested enemy, right?"
Wyatt nodded briefly and turned to his wife. "Steph, do you mind to leave us alone? You can return to your work you did before while Chris and I talk. It's important."
Stephanie watched both brothers closely and saw in their eyes the seriousness, so she just accepted the offer and made her way back to the office. Where she could play with numbers again and not demons. Like she should normally. The woman only sighed at the end.
The older brother grabbed his baby brother firmly and led both men to the backroom. A room Chris would know all too well what made him smirk as Chris shot him an amused look at where they walked in.
"Wyatt, what's going on? What did you find out?" the half Elder wanted to know.
The Twice-Blessed looked straight at his little brother. "Lucifer knows about everything. At least all we did recently. Plus, he still wants you. No matter what we do to counter his attacks!"
"Wait. We're still not off of him, are we? What do we do now?"
But Wyatt just hugged his brother tightly. "I won't let anything happen to you. I promise." This he repeated several times and the scene went black.
|
|
|
Post by Tim on Sept 12, 2016 5:09:37 GMT -5
17. Heaven & Hell: Strike One
A FEW WEEKS LATER
Chris was getting paranoid. He'd just written his nearly last exam but still felt a constant presence in his mind. Full knowing it was his older brother and surely he could understand it, but it was getting on his nerves. More than as he had to write his exams.
"Halliwell, everything okay? You've finished already and I want you to leave now," the prof begged smiling. "The result you'll know soon enough."
"Sorry. Zoned out but I'll go now." The brunette grabbed his things and hurried out of the room by nearly falling over the stairs and making his co-students laugh. He growled loudly. "Funny? Well, then good luck!"
Being out of the room he breathed in relief and was met with two slender arms around his neck and hot kisses on his lips. "Cat, I'd rather enjoy breathing, you mind." He hugged her. "I'm fine. Don't worry."
"How did the exam go? Everything went well, didn't it?" Cat rambled without noticing herself. Then she noticed his annoyed look. "What's bothering you, my man?"
He sighed. "Wyatt and his overprotective attitude. I can understand him, really, but it's getting on my nerves. Slowly but I should appreciate this protection, shouldn't I?" The half Elder looked into the eyes of his wife. "I think he's just afraid of losing me once again. If I did, he'd give up all and everything. Finally."
Cat cupped his head lovingly and kissed him on the nose. "If he'd given you up, Wyatt wouldn't be here. Remember what Grams always said: Your brotherly bond is your strength and might. Together you are strong!"
Chris smirked at her. "Are you Grams or my big brother? Certainly not my wife! Ouch."
She slapped him on his arm playfully and smiled at him. "You are so damn neurotic and funny! Who raised you this way?"
"Mom?"
A new presence made himself known and looked like Wyatt. "I knew you were a Momma's boy. Didn't know it was that integrated but surely is. How did your exam go?"
Chris looked the stranger over and pushed Cat behind him protectively. "Who are you?" he demanded to know. "You certainly are not my brother as I know he's with his wife out for a week."
The false appearance dropped immediately. "Wow, I'm impressed. Totally am. My boss will be pleased to have you as his apprentice. If you'd follow me now, please …"
Cat came forward but was held back by her husband with an arm. "Don't you dare! Who's your boss, anyway? Leave us alone!"
"My young lady," the minion spoke up. "Who are you to threaten me? Just a nobody!" He waved his hand at her and she fell unconscious to the floor but the young man caught her in time. Lying her gently on the floor. "Coming now? Sorry for that but she was … distracting."
"Was that really necessary? I could have sent her home by talking if you would have let me," he growled out. "Now what does Lucifer want from me? And why?"
"I think you know why if you'd listened to your beloved brother and his latest story about the future." He held out his hand. "Coming? It's time."
Reluctantly the young man took the offered hand and was shimmered away. Silence ruled the alley for a few minutes before orbs enlightened the street and revealed a worried brother and sister who ran to the unconscious form and tried to wake her up. In vain so far.
"Wy, what happened here? Where's Chris?" Steph asked concerned and caressed her sister's hand. "Does your enemy have to do something with this? The devil?"
"I think so. Lucifer wants to get to know him, I guess, but why now? If he has him, we are in great trouble and I'll have to hurry if I want him back!"
Stephanie grabbed his arm as he wanted to orb away quickly. "Wyatt, you cannot leave me alone here! What if anyone sees you or worse if any demon wants to get us while you're gone?" She gestured to herself and her baby sister.
Wyatt sighed and went with his hand through his blond hair. He could understand her but he was wasting time. "Okay, listen. If I orb you to the Manor, to my parents, do you agree?" She nodded. "If you're then there, send Cole to the underworld to meet me there and tell the Hollow to protect you all. And with crystals!"
The young woman accepted and grabbed her sister tighter as both women were engulfed by orbs and directed to the boys' home.
The Twice-Blessed, however, orbed directly to the underworld where he soon met Cole Turner and both men searched for the youngest Halliwell.
MANOR
Piper and Leo looked confused up as blue lights flittered through the ceiling and were surprised to see their daughters-in-law. Worried they ran over and led them to the couch where Steph lay Cat down in tears.
"Steph, what happened? What's going on?" Leo wanted to know. "Where are Wyatt and Chris?"
Stephanie took a deep breath and turned instead to the two demonic guests of the house. "Cole, meet Wyatt in the underworld. He's expecting you there." The demon nodded and shimmered away. Now she turned to her parents-in-law and included the cat. "We should make the house safe and Hollow, you should stay here. To protect us if need be."
The cat did as told and took charge. "Leo, look after the young women for a sec while Piper puts crystals around the house and I'll give them my special gift."
The oldest Charmed One raised an eyebrow at the harsh order but decided to follow. The old man watched over the girls and was soon joined by his wife and the cat.
"Steph, where are the boys?" Piper asked now concerned.
She swallowed hard. "We think Chris has been kidnapped by Lucifer and we don't know why. As Wy felt it and orbed us there, we only found Cat unconscious on the floor and no sign of Chris. That's all I know."
Both Piper and Leo were horrified but remained silent. All they could do was to wait for Cat to wake up.
UNDERWORLD
Wyatt had orbed to the largest cave down here and was shortly met later by Cole who looked at him expectantly. "I take it Steph didn't tell you much." The demon nodded. "OK, short version: Lucifer has Chris and I need to remember where his lair was. You help me?"
"Of course," Cole answered without hesitating. "So, where do we start our research? Do you remember anything special about his cave? It'd help."
The blond smacked his head. "Damn, he can make his lair magic proof. That's why I couldn't orb out if I'd wanted to. He even said it to me. How could I forget this?"
"Don't worry. This can happen but we could try to come as close to his cave as we could. We should be able to achieve that. But as you would do, lead the way! If you can."
The Twice-Blessed snorted and huffed angrily. But he accepted nodding and knew he had to hurry if he wanted his brother back. Without any damages for him, and not lost for himself. He orbed to avoid any questions.
The demon smiled and followed the orb trail only seconds later. His little trick worked always. On any Halliwell.
LUCIFER'S LAIR/ HELL
As Chris was brought to his destination, he decided to take a look around first. It looked like an ordinary cave of the underworld but still larger and hotter. The boy wasn't so sure if he needed any clothes here but by another overview he felt like being watched. A feeling he didn't like.
"So, you are Christopher. A mere boy who can change timelines without any great consequences from and for anyone," a voice stated in the darkness. "Even if the Avatars would warmly recommend you to me … "
"Well, you must be Lucifer, the one after me. I take it you wanna get to know me, right or else why would you have brought me here?" the brunette challenged.
"Smart. Your brother has told you everything, hasn't he? Even some things he wouldn't tell me about last time I spoke with him. So what do you know about me, young man?"
Green eyes stared at him incredulously. "What's written in the bible and known in general. The fallen Angel who created his own place. By the way, this place doesn't look like hell. Even though the heat comes close."
"Oh, this is just my meeting point as I know your mortals are not used to this heat. For you to know, I have my own living space a bit further and deeper in here. You won't ever see it, but now back to our little talk."
"You mean before my big brother comes and fires your ass …"
"If he can find it. Again," the devil said knowingly.
The half Elder snorted in return. "So, what do you want to know? Or do you want to poison me with your essence? Or anything similar?"
"I still want you to join me, but this time on your own free will. I'll tell you my conditions and you consider them. If they please you, you'll let me know. If not, we'll meet again – under different circumstances."
"Still I don't think anything you'd offer could please me. I know what you can do and I don't want it. There isn't anything for me to join you. No matter what you'll say now. I won't do it. I've been warned."
"By Wyatt? Oh joy, he's only been turned by an Elder, Gideon, before but what I offer you is quite more than he ever had. It's quite more than being simple evil, it's an opportunity to play God if you want. You'd be able to save more innocents than before by stopping all demons or just by preventing to let some ordinary demon become the new Source. What do you say? That's all you can prevent by joining me," the Prince of Darkness offered and opened his arms to indicate the great opening.
Chris looked at the devil with open eyes and bit his lower lip nervously. "I admit what you say sounds very tempting. But at what price at the end? I still ask myself if you don't want to change my family as well? I mean, we as a clan stand between good and evil. For good. It lies in our genes, so there's a conflict, I think."
"I must say you're a good observer. Though still some things happened as before. You killed the Avatars but now with your brother and not in time. So there isn't any damage to a timeline and still everything goes as wanted."
"How can you say that? Do you have any experience in time travel? I don't think so."
"I know, but I can watch over developments. Like my old boss and I know when I have to step in. Unfortunately, Wyatt had been saved by you, so he was lost. Not only for Gideon, but in the end for me as well."
"What are you saying?"
"Don't you know it yourself? I've been told you are smart. Clever indeed." Lucifer looked at him firmly. "Tell me why I would have wanted your brother here, but now you instead."
Chris' eyes widened as he finally understood what had happened before and what was going on here. "Let me guess: Gideon's plan came right ahead for you as you'd become the most powerful being on earth in your hands, but as I went back in time to stop that from happening, you now found a new interest in me, didn't you? Through me time travel opens a new branch for you. To change history – to your advantage."
Lucifer clapped his hands in pure amusement. "Wonderful, you got it. I now know that I choose right. You're the one I want, because of your more extended powers. Or new ones as you yourself gave them. Certainly made me impressed and not only by what the Avatars told me …"
"Great, just great," the brunette mumbled and looked at the devil. "Have we now talked about all? I'm sure my brother and family are looking for me by now. Plus, I need to know if my wife has woken up yet."
"You'll see if you go now," the devil suggested suddenly.
The half Elder raised an eyebrow suspiciously. "You're kidding, right? All of a sudden? You don't make any sense, do you?"
"I did the same with Wyatt some time ago. And he returned fine, didn't he?" he requested stunned.
"If you say so, fine." The boy saluted with his fingers. "Good bye! And hopefully never again." Chris orbed away finally and left Lucifer alone in his lair.
MANOR
The family's attention was once again drawn to the ceiling as another set of orbs flittered through it. To their relief it was Chris, back from wherever he was, and his parents ran to hug him what meant, nearly suffocated him.
"I'm fine. Where's Wyatt? Cole?" The brunette looked around and saw his wife still off. "Why hasn't she woken up yet? I thought she had by now."
"Calm down, baby," Piper said. "Call your brother and Cole back home and then we look what we can do for Cat. Okay, honey? Call them!"
"Wyatt! Cole! It's time to return! I'm home," he yelled and all winced. "Sorry," he apologized seconds later.
"It's okay, son, but we're not deaf," Leo replied after taking his finger out of his ear. "I'm sure he heard you. Totally sure."
As if on cue an orb and a shimmer appeared and revealed the men requested. Immediately the younger man saw why he was here, he ran to his little brother, hugged him tightly and both fell to the floor, acting like little children rather than adults.
Cole laughed openly and couldn't help but say, "I thought you were already grown up but obviously still not!" He ducked to avoid any pushes but didn't receive any. Thankfully. Then he turned serious. "We should find out why Cat hasn't woken up yet. Hollow?"
The cat came forward and sat beside his charge's wife. "All my known methods failed. Sorry. If Lucifer has developed a new way to attack, then congratulations. We are his guinea pigs."
Chris was getting desperate and grabbed his wife close to his chest, kissing her forehead and whispering soothing words in her ear.
Wyatt, who listened closely and watched the scene with a broken heart, had a sudden idea which was in a way rather stupid and simple but ingenious. "Hey Chris, why don't you just kiss her on the lips?" All looked at him confused. "Damn, think of all like a fairy tale! It does make sense!"
Though it was seldom when his brother had a good idea, Chris tended to believe him. Also it made sense in a way like the devil ticked – for him. The younger man just said, "If you believe in it, Wy, I do as well." He kissed Cat's lips and certainly she was back.
"Whoa. Chris is …," she began.
"Here." He was hugged by his wife now and could read her unspoken question of 'How?'. "Long story," he simple stated.
"Which I want to hear. Some day." Cat now hugged her older sister and parents-in-law before the four of them walked to the kitchen. To eat they'd said but more to gossip.
"Thanks Wy," the brunette spoke.
"Anytime," the blond replied grinning. Then he turned serious and watched his brother closely. As if searching for injuries. "What did the devil want from you?"
"Oh, he's still on the trip for me to join him. Which is ridiculous. As if. I'm glad you've warned me about this." He looked at his brother afraid. "What do we do now?" he asked quietly.
The older boy sighed. He felt helpless, because he had no idea what to do and this was more his brother's department. "I have no idea. Sorry." He looked at his baby brother. "I thought you may come up with something. You're the genius."
Chris hmphed. "Sorry, not yet. I'm still half shocked about my trip to Lucifer. Still scary and I need to understand all he'd said. And maybe plan our next steps." He snipped his fingers. "Unfortunately, my wife wants to hear a story and so I'll tell her."
Cole and Wyatt grinned mischievously after the fleeing boy and were happy, not to deal with that. Only a second later, the younger man turned back to the very older demon. "What do you suggest, Cole? I'm open for anything by now," he said.
"I'm out of ideas at the moment as well, but what'd you say if I go down there and find out more about Lucifer's plan for Chris? He doesn't know me, I hope," the demon replied with hope.
Wyatt looked their companion over. "I think you're right. If need be, go as your demonic half. Belthazor. And now excuse me: I need to watch over my family. Just to be sure and there to protect." He waved his hand before joining his family in the other room.
Cole bowed amused and shimmered to a dark place and looked for the devil.
|
|
|
Post by Tim on Sept 12, 2016 5:10:16 GMT -5
18. Evil, Essence and an Emergency
LUCIFER'S LAIR, HELL
Belthazor reformed close to the lair of the devil. Smirking, the demon was reminded of his good old days as he'd been in love and worked with the Charmed Ones. The love he then felt was with Phoebe, but this was now past and his future lay in working with Piper's sons.
"Ah, a new guest," came a voice to his ear. "Welcome to my place. My name's Lucifer and why are you here if you don't mind?"
"No, no, of course not. I'm here, because I wanted to see some old friends of mine. If they still exist, that is. Plus, who's the new boss now as I'd been once the Source, you know."
"And you are again?" the devil insisted. "You didn't tell me your name and I need to know who I'm dealing with." His foot was tapping impatiently, to prove this fact.
"Belthazor, born half demon, half human. Lived for a long time among them as a lawyer. As a human my name's Cole Turner and so I know very well how humans tick."
"Interesting, very interesting." The Prince of Darkness stared into the man's gaze. "What'd you say we talk about the humans and their habits in my lair? I'll invite you with this."
Cole's mind raced. This was an opportunity to find out more about his plans, but he wouldn't show how excited he was. After all, if he knew one thing, it was how to play along. "I'll come with. If the devil invites me, who am I to say no?"
"Indeed."
Both men walked together in Lucifer's lair and chatted like old school friends. Both the devil and the demon sat down at the table, drank some coffee and ate cookies. As if they were above in a normal café. For now they just talked about trivial and this was mostly about Lucifer's useless attempts to get Christopher Halliwell.
"By the way, do you know the Halliwells?" the devil asked casually. Cole was glad to drink coffee as he nearly choked on it but nodded. "Personal?"
"Yes. I once fell in love with the now middle sister, Phoebe, but I've become the Source and lost her in the process. Anything else?" the demon wanted to know and tried to sound as normal as possible.
"You're not jealous of her new happiness with Coop, a cupido? I mean, he got now everything you once had wanted to. Children, life, a loving marriage and all. And you're telling me you're not jealous? Somehow, I can't believe it." He slurped on his coffee as well.
Cole looked at his companion. "Well, would you believe me if I told you I gave her the permission to do so? I knew I couldn't return to her as I was stuck in the cosmic void from my last 'death' by the sisters."
"Too bad they've retired by now. Would have been a challenge for me, but unfortunately it's not going to happen for me. Instead, most of the time, the sons of the eldest witch are doing the demon hunting and fight off all threats. What happened to the other kids?"
"I don't know. Why you're asking this and stating the obvious about the hunting sons of Piper. You do know all of that."
"What do you think of them? Why are they hunting mostly?"
The demon sighed annoyed. "Maybe because they are the oldest children of the next generation. Powerful and all, especially the first child. Wyatt, I guess it's his name. Born as the Twice-Blessed. Most powerful being on earth."
Lucifer agreed nodding. "Yeah, but have you known that this little brother of his had time traveled to the past and changed all? Even himself and now they're equal in powers. Imagine, what you can do with this ability! So many historical events to change."
"I take it that's why you're after him. He can change anything you want – without being disturbed by the Elders or so." The devil nodded. "So, why did you invite me here again?"
"If you ask this way, there's indeed something you might do for me. Only if you want to, because I can see you still like the Halliwells. Older or new generation. So, what do you say?"
"And what would be my task if I might ask?" Cole questioned while eating a cookie and somehow reading a newspaper. Then a vial was planted harshly in front of him. "What's this?" he asked curiously.
"An essence of evil and I want you to poison Chris' food with it. Out of some weird situation all my former attempts failed. Like also to get to know their wives' powers, but before my minions could report, they were vanquished." Lucifer looked at his opposite, waiting for any reaction of his.
Cole took the vial in his hands, glaring at it. He could feel the evil already. "Let me guess, I shall invite the boy to a lunch and give this little essence to him while eating." He looked at the man. "What if he refuses? He already knows about your plans."
The devil smirked. "You're his friend. Or as close a friend as you could be, considering your back history to the family if you know what I mean. Anyway, you do it?"
"Do I have any other choice? What if I fail as well?"
"Well, if you want to be stuck in the cosmic void for good? With no chance to escape. No hole there for you. I know your abilities, so I'll try to prevent it. So?"
The demon swallowed hard. He knew he'd be in trouble if he now said no. "Okay," Cole replied, taking the vial between his palms. "When shall I report back to you?"
"As soon as you can. And now go! You've been here for too long already!" He dismissed him by just waving his hand and his opposite was gone. "Good luck! And don't fail!"
Cole was back in the world above, still with the vial in his hand. He'd heard the threat of the devil, but knew inside: If he didn't obey, he'd be lost to anything normal or never see what his loved ones do. The Halliwells. What could he do now?
MEANWHILE WITH THE BROTHERS
"Chris, hey Chris!" Wyatt's voice called out into the kitchen where he knew to always find his little brother. "Have you seen Cole lately? He'd said to just go to Lucifer if he could find out anything. So have you?"
Chris looked up at his brother's recent question while still making their lunch. "I haven't. Now that you mentioned it, why did he go, anyway? I thought, he'd stay here and not do all he wants," he complained.
The blond smirked, full knowing he'd sent out their companion but now he was afraid as well. "You know him. He can never sit still for long. Even if he's out of the picture. A demon remains a demon – ever, even an half one."
Now the brunette smirked. "Oh yeah, I agree. Cole would never change in this, always on a run. I say Aunt Phoebe would totally agree with us, wouldn't she?"
"True. What you're doing today? Your last exam is in a few days, so you'll learn or enjoy a spare day." Then Wyatt looked around. "Where are our ladies?"
"Out. Shopping. Said something like we both are going to need new tuxes if I pass my last, big exam. For the big celebration at the end from the university, you know. Why asking? Afraid?" His older brother nodded. "Don't worry. The cat is with them. Or better to say: as best as he can. It's difficult with cats in the city or in shops." The younger boy grinned mischievously.
"I see. What you do if we're alone? When's your last exam exactly? You know, me and numbers." He twinkled his eye.
A snort was the answer. "Week. If you could wait one minute, so I can finish our lunch and we can eat, then and only then we could maybe play some sport outside. It's time to test our strength again. How about basketball?" Green eyes searched for the blue ones.
They answered enlightened. "Because of that we have a basket on our garage, don't we? Hehe, okay. We do as you said, baby brother."
Amused Wyatt then watched how his brother finished their meal before he was a bit violent reminded to set up the table. Doing quickly as been told, the two of them were soon served by a decent meal, made by the younger male. Chatting about their normal and daily stuff distracted both young men for a while from their magical heritage and … wives.
After they'd finished, the older of the two offered to wash up the dishes and clean all, so Chris could relax what he did. He'd said to go into the conservatory before leaving and grabbed one of his books which he read on the loveseat. It was a normal sign for any member of the Halliwells.
That sight greeted Wyatt still as he entered the room and sighed annoyed. His little brother and books – went always good together. Just like their Mom used to. Angrily he snapped the book away. "Stop that now! You've still got time. Relax, please!"
Chris growled frustrated. What his big brother asked for was unthinkable for him. He always needed to do something! It was in his nature, but for now. "Sorry, but you know me. I can't sit still for long. I hate that."
"I'm your big brother and I always watch over you, whether you like it or not. Please, at the moment, relax for once. I beg you."
Looking up he saw a desperate look on his brother's face. What made him give in. "Okay, you won. I'll relax now. So, what'd you want to talk about? I thought we've already covered up all."
"Don't be so neurotic! I know that, but it was just an attempt to let you calm at least once: Don't forget, I know you three times and since you're my baby brother I know you better than me. Sometimes," Wyatt admitted truthfully.
Chris only sighed and remained silent.
Suddenly there was a jingle and both men looked up confused but only one of them frowned. It was clear that only he was wanted. The older brother gave his brother a questioning look, begging him to explain and crossed his arms over the chest, to confirm his mildly threat.
"Cole wants to speak with me. Alone and in a restaurant in the city," Chris offered at his brother's look. "But I can't understand why all of a sudden? It doesn't make any sense. Only if he'd been on a mission. Had he?"
Wyatt shifted a bit uncomfortable. "Well, what if I'd sent him?" He looked at his brother sheepishly. "Before you explode and shout, I've only done this protect you. I'm just afraid to lose you time and again."
"Wyatt, it's okay. I understand."
"No, please. Listen, Chris. If you die here once again or would be turned evil by Lucifer either, whatever happens first, I'm always going to lose a bit of myself with you." Out of instinct Wyatt hugged his baby brother fiercely. "Please be careful! Once more and I wouldn't be able to cope with it."
"I know."
The blond continued, "I know Cole is now our friend as he'd helped us through a lot lately. But you never know."
"I get the picture, Wy," the brunette said smiling. "I can take care of myself by now. Don't worry so much."
"I'm your big brother. That's my job – for eternity." He didn't want to sound so weak and, whether he wanted it or not, tears came to his eyes which he didn't let fall. So he hoped.
"Wy, I'm a bit too tall to be pampered by you now." The jingling came again and increased. "Jesus, I'm coming. God, this can be so annoying. How the hell could I live with that for more than one year?" The brunette grinned. "I'm going now. You feel if something happens."
Watching the blue lights leave, the blond felt like his own world would crush soon. After all, he knew too well how the devil ticked and what he'd do to get his wanted target. This target was Chris and Wyatt feared for his baby brother if Cole had turned back to his cores. The Twice-Blessed could only wait.
SOMEWHERE IN THE CITY
Cole, on the other hand, had ordered his third cup of coffee in the little restaurant he was in while waiting for the younger Halliwell brother to arrive. His patience was slowly growing thin but just in that moment his friend came, running and totally in sweat.
"Sorry for being late," the younger man explained while catching his breath. "Couldn't find a suitable place to reform, close to this little restaurant. I did my best, so you accept?"
The demon nodded. "Take a seat, breath normally, order you something to eat and drink and then we need to talk!"
A raised eyebrow, going with a bit of a suspicious look was the brief answer but he did as told. What he ordered could be more described as a fully meal as if he hadn't eaten anything for ages. Looking up he saw a confused look. "What?"
"My god, you're bolting your food like there's no tomorrow! I thought your mother were a chef and so are you. Care to share?"
"I'm a growing person, aren't I?"
Cole smirked. "Point taken. Finished? I'd love to talk to you. It's important and I need your opinion on something. If you'd face the same. I don't really know how to explain."
"Fire away. I'm all ears."
"Okay, you know from own experience how overprotective your brother is, concerning you and so he'd sent me to Lucifer, to gather some information in my demonic form, Belthazor. Well, let's say it was an interesting talk about you, his plans and all. Really interesting."
Chris shot him a speculative look before sighing. "This he's been since forever. What did you find out beside of being after me, because I can time travel so well. With me he could change history."
"That's exactly what he said." He looked strangely at his companion. "Have you spoken with him before?" That earned him a deathly glare from the boy. "Sorry, but it's true. You nearly used the same words as well. Or has Wyatt been telling his speeches?"
"Cole!" the half Elder interrupted angrily. "Come to the point already! Time is of essence here!"
The demon cleared his throat, then smiled. "Again, sorry." Then he produced a vial out of nowhere. In it a black essence. "That I've been ordered to poison you with. Using food. The same as before when Wyatt stopped him."
"Oh. And what you intend to do? I'm sure, he's threatened you if you fail, hasn't he? It'd make sense. You are now a friend of us, so he's now using you to get me. So, what you do?" Chris asked stunned.
"I haven't decided. Yet. My friendship with you two and in general with your family is once again standing in the way. You should know I don't want to lose your trust in any way, so I've come to the decision we'll talk first and then decide together."
"Oh," the boy said again before looking his friend over. He'd known his Aunt Phoebe's story about her first big love who was this man. For him, as a child, the half demon fascinated him as he played double. Given the evil information about the Charmed Ones, yet at the same time fallen in love with one of the sisters. In the end there was a dark wedding, an evil baby, changed realities. He was vanquished yet managed to always return. Cole was now a good alley for them.
"So, what do you say we do now with this little vial? And what should I report to Lucifer if I return without any result?" the man asked curiously.
"We should destroy it! I don't want it near me. Even now I can feel its evil conscience what is longing to me – somehow. Do whatever you want with it, but don't come close to me!" Chris explained, a bit loud.
However, both men were shocked as the black essence came to life and made its way toward Chris who stepped back afraid, almost onto the street close by. But this thing came closer and closer and it freaked him out – slowly.
"Cole, what the hell did you bring on earth?" the boy asked, getting nearer to the street without him noticing.
"Chris! STOP!" the man cried out as he noticed the danger his friend was in. In his hurry to run away, Chris was now on the street which was busy as it being rush hour. "CHRIS!"
It happened so fast that no one around them could say what had gone wrong. Out of nowhere, there was a transporter and it hit Chris with full force who was more focused on the black essence than the street. You could hear a thud and the boy landed after some whirls with face first on the street. Some women shrieked loudly while others called an ambulance quickly and a different group tried to help with their first aid knowledge.
In all that chaos, Cole couldn't get his eyes off of the driver. It was Lucifer in person who smirked at him and called his black essence back to him. Then the transporter vanished and he could hear a soft voice, "I've always won."
A wailing of sirens was heard and a stretcher came, followed by a doctor and nurses. They put Chris on the stretcher and asked for family. This woke Cole up finally.
"I'm a friend of his!" he shouted. "Can I drive with?"
To his surprise Wyatt's voice came to his ear. Exhausted and in sweat. "I'm his brother. Can I?"
The doctor gave him his permission to but the blond turned back to their friend and hissed, "We'll talk later! And I'll want to know all! Minutely detailed!" The ambulance went off.
Cole just stood there while the crowd vanished. At the end he was alone.
|
|
|
Post by Tim on Sept 12, 2016 5:11:00 GMT -5
19. Heaven & Hell: Strike Two
S.F. MEMORIAL HOSPITAL, ER
Only ten minutes later Wyatt was at the hospital, sat harshly on a chair near the desk while his baby brother was rolled to the emergency. His needs of answers was always cut off by comments from the docs which he couldn't understand. That was Chris' sector but now he sat on a plastic chair and waited for his family to come. He couldn't wrap his mind around what had happened.
Several minutes later clattering footsteps could be heard and soon the family had surrounded the lone boy whose mother tried in vain to get him to talk with them. But the only one to answer their questions could be only be given by their long friend, Cole Turner who hadn't appeared yet.
"Wyatt, please, tell us what had happened?" Piper asked gently. She was rubbing her eldest son's back and was glad her daughters-in-law hadn't been informed yet.
"Can you tell us who he met? Son, please!" Leo pressed a bit further. He feared to lose his youngest son again. That was something he couldn't bear once more.
"He met Cole who jingled him."
"What did they talk about? Why this meeting?" the father wanted to know while patting his son's knee.
"I don't know. I've just felt his pain some time later and some anger before." His tears intensified. "I just wanna know how he is now."
Piper and Leo looked at each other in fear. Not knowing what to say, the parents tried to stay calm and give some support to their eldest while inside they also waited anxiously for any news from the doctors. Soon.
Half an hour later a doctor came to the family who immediately stood up. He gave them a sympathetic smile. "You're the young man's family?" They nodded before the doctor focused his gaze on Wyatt. "You weren't really talkative while coming here, were you?" The blond looked down ashamed. "It's okay, young man. Under these circumstances. Anyway, I have some good and bad news about our patient. If you could give some datas before."
"Of course," Piper answered. "His name is Christopher Halliwell, born November 16, 2004, here in San Francisco, med student but nearly finished. My name's Piper Halliwell, mother, the man is Leo Wyatt, his father and this is our eldest son, Wyatt. What can you tell us about our son, Sir?"
"Well," the young doctor swallowed hard. "Obviously Chris was hit hard by the hip and it could be that he can't move his legs for some time." All three gasped slightly and the woman buried her head on Leo's chest. "As he landed on his head harshly as well, we had to send him into an artificial coma, so that his body can recover itself – as long as needed.
"Oh god," Leo said stunned. "What can we do? How long would he be in coma? Is there any chance at all?"
"I'm sorry but can't say anything."
Wyatt sobbed by now. "He's had only one exam before him! To be a doctor himself! Oh god, what do I tell Cat? She'll kill me if I don't tell her now!" Frustrated and exhausted he sat down again and cried.
"Excuse me, who's Cat?" the doctor asked confused.
"Chris' wife," Piper offered. She looked at her husband who nodded barely, accepting her deal. "I'll phone the girls and tell them to meet me at the Manor."
"Thanks Mom," Wyatt said defeated. "Where's the rest of the clan?"
"We could convince them to stay home with the strict order to phone all regularly. By the littlest change," Leo explained his son who accepted.
"Oh." The doctor made himself known again but right then his beeper went off. "Excuse me, your son needs me! I'll tell you when I return. I need to go now!" He ran hurriedly away.
The Charmed One peeked around the corner, hearing the news. "What's going on? Where did the doc go?" Her two men said nothing. "Okay, I got Steph via phone. She offered to break the news to her baby sister gently and then we'll meet."
The former Elder kissed his wife. "Thanks honey. I think it's better you'll leave now if you're going to meet the girls at home. I promise we'll call you regularly if the doc is given any new news on Chris."
The mother looked at both her men and knew it was better this way. "Okay," she reluctantly agreed and pulled Leo closer to her. "Where's Cole? If they had met, you know."
"Calm down, Piper," Leo spoke quietly, not to upset their son more. "I'll let you know if he turns up here. I'm sure, he and Wyatt would like to talk with each other. I'd say now, he's too shocked to react."
Piper just kissed him again before walking off. She opened her SUV and drove back to the Manor where her daughters-in-law would be soon. The three of them had agreed to let Stephanie and Catherine go to Chris tomorrow. Time to adjust the terrible news.
Five minutes later another harder set of footsteps entered the hospital. Cole Turner looked like a shadow of his former self and felt like a petulant child who had to apologize ton his parents. His fears were confirmed as Wyatt stood up immediately, ready to fight him but held back by Leo.
"Cole," the father said. "Can you explain what had happened back to Chris? Maybe this could calm Wyatt, you know."
"What's with Chris?" the demon wanted to know.
"They say he's in coma and could be paralyzed hips down, but there are some complications as well. The docs are still on him. Not new news still then."
"Oh. I'm really sorry, but let me explain." Father and son sat down again, though the blond still growled. "I've jingled Chris, because I've wanted to talk with him about Lucifer's plan. He convinced me as Belthazor to help him and gave me a vial to poison him if need be. To prove him my loyalty."
"Similar to the one event I've stopped when I returned. What then?" Wyatt demanded.
"I don't know how but the black essence in this vial came to life and attacked Chris or made him move closer and closer to the street where the rush hour started slowly. Out of nowhere came a transporter all of a sudden and hit the boy, but my focus was on the driver. I recognized him as the devil who smirked at me and called his black essence back to him. Then the ambulance came and the transporter just vanished. Like never been there. Only then I realized what has happened to Chris and woke up."
"That's when I felt his pain and orbed close to the place and decided to step in as they asked for someone who wanted to drive with. And for family."
"It's okay, son," Leo encouraged and then looked to Cole. "You did it right, Cole. What Lucifer wants, that he gets. No matter what. I'm sure Chris will survive, because he's strong."
"And what if he's paralyzed for good? I couldn't live with myself," the older brother said. "I'll wait for a result and then the devil will get to know my revenge."
"I'm with you," Cole agreed quietly. "Let me come with you if you go."
Leo was about to argue against it when he saw his son smile at Cole's suggestion but was distracted as the young doctor returned with a slight smile on his face. That gave the father some hope now.
"Mr Wyatt, Mr Halliwell and …, never mind, I have some good news for you," the doc greeted them. "Though he's lying still in coma, our nurses saw that Chris tried to move his legs. Saying he gains his feelings in the legs back."
"Oh, that's good," Wyatt jumped. "You mind if I go to him? I need to see for myself how he is!"
"No, go! I made it that only family could go to him – 24/7." He turned to the father. "You with me, Mr Wyatt?"
Leo's gaze followed his son with a confused look before Cole whispered an explanation in his ear and he nodded now. "I am. I'll call my wife to give her the news. We'll manage your offer, doc. Thank you."
"No problem. I need to do my round. Excuse me." The doctor walked away from the older men group.
"Cole, I phone now Piper and the girls. Be back in a few seconds. You'll wait and stay!" The former Elder made his way to the phone.
The demon finally sat down again exhausted, waiting for either Halliwell man to return. He understood what Wyatt wanted to and he'd help him. No matter what and now, he could only wait and pray for some miracle. And that Lucifer wouldn't appear here.
CHRIS' ROOM, ICU
Wyatt's gaze was fixated on Chris' condition and the absolute feeling of being at the mercy of destiny. He was the big brother and should have followed him but instead? He should have prevented it as he was the one to know about Lucifer's plan for his baby brother. Then a voice came to his head.
'Would you stop, Wy! There was nothing you'd have done to prevent it. It was just a part of Lucifer's great plan,' Chris scolded telepathically.
'Chris! I'm so sorry, but still. It's all my fault,' the blond answered.
'Please, don't blame Cole for this. It's not his either, but why are you here now?'
'I want you to combine our powers and raise an invisible forcefield around you. In case, the devil returns and tries another attack. You're vulnerable at the moment!'
'I see.' There was a long pause. 'Okay, do it. But what if the docs wanna check on me?'
'They won't see and feel it. It only reacts if evil steps in. In any form. Trust me.'
Another long pause happened. 'I'm ready to do so. And what you're doing now?'
'Don't worry about me right now! It's you who should get better. Soon or otherwise …'
'Wyatt!'
'I'm going with Cole to Lucifer and play with him a bit. Nothing more.'
'You should go now. Ehm … Wy, the forcefield!'
As an answer he took his brother's hand and combined their powers to create a forcefield, invisible yet protective. Only evil and the devil could activate it, so it was fool proof.
'Wy. Be careful!'
'Aren't I always?'
'Do you really want an answer to that question?' the brunette challenged.
'Okay, okay. I'll go now. Be better, little brother!'
Wyatt left the room in a good mood and nearly kissed every nurse on his way, back to his father and Cole. Every woman shrieked and so gave his way away what made Leo and Cole look up. Both shook their heads only.
"Wyatt," the father chastised. "What happened?"
"I just talked to Chris through our telepathic link. He was fine to talk that way and I installed my protection around him." He received confused looks. "Don't worry. No one will ever notice it. Only evil."
Cole tapped his foot impatiently. "Can we go now, Wyatt? We still have some business to attend to, you know."
The eldest Halliwell son nodded, grabbing the demon unexpectedly and waved his father a good bye. He dragged Cole to an alley where nobody would see them leave. Looking around they saw none, so both orbed and shimmered down to hell.
HOSPITAL'S FOYER
Leo stood still in the foyer, though his son and Cole had long left. Debating whether to call his wife or not, but they had agreed to let Cat and Steph come tomorrow. So, it was his time now to kill time.
Chris' doctor came to him. "Mr Wyatt, why don't you visit your son? Your other son left and you can do so. If you want to."
"I know. I'm debating to call my wife. Anyway, what's your name, doc? You didn't say it yet."
"Oh sorry, I've been busy lately that I totally forgot. My name's Dr Jeffton. Nice to meet you."
"Nice to meet you too. So, you think it's okay if I go to my youngest? After I call my wife, I mean."
"Sure, go ahead. Only your family has access to him. No one else. I'll have to go. Night shift, you know." Dr Jeffton hurried away, leaving Leo alone with his thoughts.
The old man sighed and walked to the phone, calling his wife and telling her about all what had happened recently. In the same moment calming her down if he managed. After that Leo slowly walked to the ICU unit, to his youngest son.
LUCIFER'S LAIR, HELL
The Prince of Darkness sat lazily on his throne, waiting for somebody to arrive soon. His minions had hidden purposefully as they didn't want to stand in between the fighting parties. Their master had changed his positions so many times meanwhile, they only thought he were crazy. Anyway, his awaited friends seemed to arrive as an orb and shimmer appeared in the cave.
"'bout time," the devil greeted them. "Took you long enough. How are you feeling, Twice-Blessed?" He smirked at him.
"Bastard!" Wyatt shouted. "Why did you do it? This isn't your way of playing with us. What do you want to achieve with that move, eh? Tell me."
Cole just glared at the devil but had to put a lot of effort in holding the blond back. He could understand his fury, yet one false move here and no Halliwell brothers at all.
"Oh. Did I do anything? I can't recall to have done anything wrong. Besides, I've never left this place. So what could I have done to upset you that much?" the devil mocked knowingly. He wanted to find out how far he could push Wyatt before the boy would lose his self confidence and control over his powers.
The blond's anger grew again but Cole stepped in front of him. "You're lying. I've seen you above! You were the one who drove the transporter which hit Chris. After all, you called your black essence back to you as it had attacked Chris who walked onto the street. SO YOU DID IT! You can't deny it."
"Yeah, he's the main witness," Wyatt agreed. "So, no escape for you this time!"
"Maybe you're right … or not. What if I did it, as Wyatt had said it before, this isn't my style toward the boys in any way. I'm more deceitful than that," the Prince argued for his side, of course.
"Maybe," Wyatt said slowly. "But I don't believe you this time. I think you did it, because you wanted to have it done easier and quicker as my little brother wouldn't come to you the way you want to. I guess you thought if he was weak and hurt, he'd easily follow you but he didn't."
"You've warned him."
"I've seen what kind of a future you can create if you achieve your goal. No way is there I'm going to allow it. Even if I die instead of my brother."
"That can be arranged," Lucifer challenged.
"STOP, you both!" Cole stepped in, again. He could see that those two were totally sworn enemies. Totally understandable. "Are we here to fight or to discuss? I know the fight will come, but not now! Please."
His two companions snorted only but backed away. Though they still eyed each other warily.
The demon sighed. "Okay, I understand you both. I'd been the Source once and tried to kill the Charmed Ones, yet I'd failed as I'd fallen in love with Phoebe. She was my weakness, still is if you want. And Wyatt, as I've watched your family from the cosmic void I knew how strong Chris is and you are."
"Are you sure of that fact?" the devil interrupted. "Sure, he …," gesturing to Wyatt, "… is the Twice-Blessed but easily tempted to evil by looking at his past life. But Chris is so different. Always has been, in any timeline. On the surface weak, yet strong in his beliefs."
"Are you finished, Lucifer?" Wyatt interjected. "I know all of that since I know my past life, grew up with my baby brother and all that." Suddenly his hand lashed out and the Prince flew back to his throne telekinatically. "Oops. Sorry, but in our family there's a wise saying: Our powers are tied to our emotions. Sorry."
At this Cole laughed out loud. Though he'd heard it before, this still amused him. His laughter filled the whole cave.
However, the Prince was not amused. Standing up in fury, he created a ring of fire around his two opposites, trapping them in. Luckily, those two were standing close together and he didn't like being laugh at. "ENOUGH!" he roared pissed off. "If you haven't noticed yet, I've trapped you. You are now on really thin ice with me, so behave!"
Wyatt tried to touch the fire but snapped his slightly burnt hand quickly away. "Ouch, hot. You're not exaggerating! Ouch, ow." He tried to cool his hand – somehow. "Okay, you have our attention back. Doesn't he, Cole?"
Cole could only nod. He had the feeling the firewalls were closing on him, but he might be only imaging it. For now he'd let Wyatt negotiate with the devil. It was better to stay out of it.
Lucifer remained silent but started to circle them, thinking. "You never made it easy for me, Wyatt. I have to admit. Though you've time traveled and gained more knowledge ahead of me. Wanna share some burden?"
The blond snorted. "As if. I thought you were all knowing like your former boss in heaven, you know. Damn." He shook his hand again, to cool it yet no success so far. He drew some cold breath on it. "Where were we?"
Cole watched the conversation in silence. It seemed Wyatt had learned something about dealing with evil. Usually his little brother did all this. Experience from a past life. So now he could only wait.
"You know where we stopped, Twice-Blessed! Don't play dumb with me. Easily I can increase the heat around you and then we'll see how you react. You changed the future already, so why not give me some knowledge of the old timeline."
"So that you could use it to your advantage? No, thank you. I've learned my lesson! No chance."
Instantly the ring of fire around his two opposites heated up, causing Wyatt and Cole to step closer. "You wanna rethink? I've got all the time to discuss longer, but you may consider in to be called back anytime. Admit it, Wyatt. You are nothing – without your baby brother!"
Angrily Wyatt flung his arm out, to let Lucifer fly once more, unaware of the flames. "Son of a bitch! You know nothing about me and my family! How dare you! If I get my hands on you, you'll be dead meat. I promise!"
"You don't feel the pain, do you?" the devil asked smirking. "I would if my hand had been put through fire, you know." He looked at both men. "I take it you want to leave, don't you? I let you if you, my dear boy, just give me some info. Future and so."
The Twice-Blessed once again shook his hand and arm to cool them off. "Under these circumstances, I suppose I can something slip. If it only concerns the timeline. Nothing else, okay?"
"Deal." The Prince looked at the blond youth. "What I've gathered so far, my first attempt, which you stopped, should have worked by now. He'd slowly have turned to evil by my black essence."
"True, but as often as he could, he'd have fought it off, yet he never could have forgotten his good sources. After all, it's integrated in his being, you must admit."
Cole nodded eagerly. "Yeah, I agree. That's so true. In that case Chris would never change."
Lucifer couldn't help but nod as well. He'd experienced the younger boy's impatience and stubbornness before. "Indeed. When did I strike then? With my four riders?"
"On our magical wedding, though the signs in Chris erupted earlier, but it'd come out fully on this day. Plus, he went with you. Satisfied?"
"Totally, though you've changed a lot already. However, we'll meet again, sooner than you think … and with your brother! You two are born as an unit."
Wyatt raised an eyebrow at this answer but all of a sudden he looked up, hearing a faint voice in his head. A voice he knew too well. Hopefully turning to the devil the blond asked, "You mind? We really need to go now!"
"Is anyone calling you?" Lucifer wanted to know.
"Shouldn't bother you. Now can we?"
The Prince of Darkness lowered his ring of fire around both men before giving them with a slight nod the permission to go. An orb and a shimmer fled from the cave as fast as possible while he had a lot to think about. But he knew one thing for sure: Their big battle would come up soon. If the younger man could walk again.
SAN FRANCISCO MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
Wyatt and Cole had, as a precaution, reformed in an alley near the building and both ran in immediately. They were abruptly stopped by a not amused nurse who stood in front of them with her hands on the hips.
"Where we're going, boys?" she bellowed.
"Um … Chris Halliwell?" the blond stuttered afraid. "Now may I go? He's my brother."
"Okay, but he stays," the nurse continued, gesturing to Cole.
"That's fine with me," Cole agreed eagerly. This nurse frightened him a bit, he should admit. Hehe …
Wyatt smiled at his friend before running off to the Intensive Care Unit where he knew his little brother lay. To his surprise, their parents were already there, whispering comforting words to Chris who still lay like a statue in the bed.
'Chris. You there?'
'I am. Why asking? Anyway, thanks for coming so fast. What's the matter?'
The older brother wanted to give his younger brother a scolding look but couldn't since Chris was still in coma. 'You called me, dumb-head. So, why did you call me? Did something happen while I was gone?'
'Nope. Can you tell me why I don't feel my legs anymore? All I remember is talking to Cole and then fleeing from the black essence of the devil and after that: all black!'
The Twice-Blessed sighed. 'Please stay calm. You're in a coma right now and could be paralyzed hips down. You were hit hard by a transporter. The doctor wouldn't say anything specific or just make a promise!'
'I see.' There was a long pause. 'Maybe it's good, because my legs are slightly reacting, but it could take long before I'll walk again.'
'That's good news. I'll leave now. Need to take care of Steph and Cat for today. We organized a shift system for them.'
'Yeah. They've been here. Felt Cat and all. Really happy to have such a loving family. So, Wy, you have my permission to go now.'
'Thanks baby bro. Until my next time. Bye.'
'Bye.'
With a good heart and mood the blond left his brunette brother. He was happy now. It seemed all was going to turn out good when, after all, his little brother was back in business. A good thing was that their telepathic link still worked. No matter what circumstances they were in.
Happily running out of the hospital, but not before kissing the desk nurse, Wyatt Halliwell made his way back to their apartment. His and Chris' wife were there, helping each other as well as waiting for good news. He could give them any.
|
|
|
Post by Tim on Sept 12, 2016 5:11:43 GMT -5
20. Team Halliwell – Recovered?
SLOW PROGRESS
A month had passed. Wyatt was on his way to the hospital as it was his turn to pay a visit to his baby brother. Their combined forcefield had always worked and so far there'd been no alerts! Thankfully.
"Hey Mr Halliwell, stop!" the desk nurse stopped the young man. Irritated he looked at her. "I know you want to be by your brother right now, but he's starting his rehabilition, so it could take some time before he's back in his room."
"Wait. Rehabilition? What did I miss?" the blond asked confused. "We were here anytime. When did he wake up? Can you tell me, please?"
"Calm down, dear," she said to him tenderly and led him to a sofa close by. "You didn't miss anything, because we were also surprised as he woke up suddenly during the night. He recovered so fast that our docs thought magic was at work."
Wyatt tried to hide his nervousness at her comment, because he knew it could be true but hoped it wasn't. "But you don't think it's true, do you?" She shook her head and he sighed in relief, quietly. "So, when can I visit him? Wouldn't it be time already?"
"Let me have a look at the screen, sweetie," the nurse offered. The elderly woman stood up and walked back to her screen where one look what she needed. "It's off, son. You can go to his room now."
"Which is where? Or is it still the same? If not, you may lead the way."
The desk nurse chuckled and slapped him on his upper arm. "Cutie," she only said and grabbed his arm, dragging him away.
"Hey lady, no need to get violent!"
"Don't you forget this way next time, would you?" And then they were there. "Have fun, boys!" she said, waved her hand at them and was gone in the next seconds. After all, she had a busy job.
However, Wyatt just stood there. Dumbfounded and shocked. Not like him.
Chris sat in his bed, looking up at his big brother with a smirk and moved one of his legs slightly anytime. He was happy to move them again, at all. "Hey Wy, everything okay with you? Have you lost your ability to speak now?"
"I … I …I," the older brother stuttered. Then he embraced him tightly, not wanting to let go. "I'm just glad you're back, but please: Don't scare me like this again!"
"I'll try but I'd rather breath again, you know."
"Sorry." Wyatt sat on the bed as well, careful to avoid his brother's body. "So, why did you wake up all of a sudden? Not that I mind, but you scared the living shit out of the doctors!" He laughed. "Even the nurses. They thought it was magic related in a way. So tell me."
The younger male sighed. "If I'd known … Anyway, through our telepathic speeches I tried several times to come back, but it wouldn't work. I could only wiggle my toes and fingers but no one noticed. I fought and fought but no success. Though I might have imagined that I'd seen a light last night. Yeah, I know my eyes were closed, yet it could be true. Like my six sense, you know."
"But you didn't see the light at the end of a tunnel, did you?" That earned him a sidekick from Chris' leg close by. "Ouch. I get it, okay?"
"I'm very much alive, thank you!" Chris said angrily and sulking. "I thought you needed me and not get rid of me! Where's my big brother who I love and adore? Tell me."
"I'm sorry, Chris. Really I am. I didn't mean to. You should know how I react if someone of my family is threatened, especially you. You are my baby brother, my best friend in the whole wide world. Can you forgive me, please?"
The brunette shyly looked up again and after a moment threw himself in his brother's strong embrace. "I already have." He snuggled, like a child, deep into Wyatt's chest. "I'm just a bit exhausted and tired. It's been a long day."
"Hey," the blond said calmly, patting his brother's back. "What's wrong, buddy? Now everything is going to be okay since you're awake. And the rehabilition you'll manage as well."
The younger boy hiccuped quietly. "If you promise to help me? Please Wy."
"Of course. Anytime and any day." The older boy melted under his brother's sadness, though he couldn't understand where it came from. "Come on, Chris. What's bothering you?"
"I can't say what's wrong. But if you stay here, who's gonna watch our ladies? Plus, I'm sure they'll come too. They are our wives."
"Don't worry so much." He chuckled slightly. "You are just like Mom. If we have to divide, then we'll use the Hollow and Cole. Our kitty loves to do that and Cole offers this as well anytime."
"I know." Chris laughed. "You always know how to make me happy."
Wyatt did the same and ruffled his brother's hair. "Silly, naturally. I know you better than myself as I practically raised you. With Mom, I mean."
The two brothers laughed the whole afternoon and just enjoyed. It was funny, because both entertained the whole ward with their jokes and brotherly digs. Until the night nurse came and dragged the blond – by his ear!
"Don't you know the rules in that hospital, young man? It's long after bedtime! Home – now!"
"Ouch. Okay, okay, I get it." He turned to his brother. "Bye Chrissie!"
"Bye Wy!" Chris smiled replied.
Wyatt smiled back and ran out of the hospital, carefully avoiding the night nurse. In a really good mood the young man left the place and bawled his joy out, not caring of the looks he received. After every few metres he jumped high in the air, causing everyone around him to chuckle. As he reached his home, his sleep, for once, was free of any nightmares.
LITTLE BY LITTLE
Another month was gone by and as it'd been predicted, day in, day out there was at least one family member in Chris' room. Sometimes it was terrifying quiet but whenever Wyatt or their wives, Steph and Cat were there laughter could be heard. And as the older brother had promised he'd helped his baby brother with his reha.
Today it was Wyatt's turn to accompany Chris once again. "Come on, Chrissie. Time to train and walk! It's fun, cheer up!"
The younger boy snarled in return. "Says you." However, he was placed in a wheelchair and driven to the psychotherapy. "Hey, I can walk by myself, you know."
"Not yet, but soon again. If you'd help me and set yourself a goal. It helps." Then both brothers reached their destination. Wyatt knelt down and looked at his brother proudly. "I know you can do it. You've already achieved so much. Not only here but also before. Believe in you, because I do."
"Wow, Wy. Didn't know you could talk that way." That earned him a playful shove on his upper arm. "Ow. Okay, okay. You did learn something from Dad, even though it's little." He smirked. "Now can we?"
The blond nodded and stood up. Opening the door and pushing the wheelchair through it, the young man greeted the family psychotherapist. "Hey Sandy, good to see you! How was your day?"
"Hello Wyatt, hello Chris! My most attractive patient is back, along with his drill sergeant," Sandy greeted the boys smiling. "So Chris, how is it going? Did you train your legs carefully every day?"
The brunette nodded eagerly. "Yeah, I had good teachers around me, though they were a bit annoying. Sometimes, but they really helped."
"I see." She looked at Wyatt for confirmation which he agreed to. "Okay Chris. Come to the parallel bars and use your legs! I'm sure Wyatt helps if you fall."
"Sure. I've done it before," Wyatt said and walked closer to his little brother and Sandy. He observed them, helped here and there before his mind flashed back to a time when Chris had learned to walk for the first time.
FLASHBACK
They were together anytime, because their Mommy and aunties were busy, fighting strange bad humans who popped in their house anytime. Later there was always a loud 'BAMM' and it was quiet again. But their Daddy was there and then he left to talk with Mommy again.
"Kwissie, stay. Be back soon," little Wyatt said before leaving the room. He wanted to know what his family was planning for Chris' first birthday what was in a week. He really looked forward to it, because he loved to celebrate.
Little Chris was not happy, to be always left alone behind, yet his legs couldn't support him. But he just wanted to be like his big brother and he already walked on his own, so why couldn't he?
The little Twice-Blessed couldn't hear anything about a birthday party what irritated him. Something like this was very important to a little child, so at least it was for him. However, a thud behind him distracted him and he watched amazed.
His tinnier brother tried to stand and walk on his own but it wouldn't work. The little half Elder had set up his mind, so he crawled once and tried it again. His second attempt failed and the little boy was ready to cry but didn't. Chris only wanted to be by his brother and it had to work. For a last time he tried and surely he stood and walked, ever so slowly, to his big brother. Grinning, as if to say 'look what I can'.
"Kwissie! Great," Wyatt exclaimed happily. "Proud of you! Really." His little brother fell onto him but it didn't matter. Chris could walk now and only that counted. "Kwissie!"
It seemed their parents had a sixth sense as they came up behind them, right on time to see their baby boy do his first steps.
Leo grabbed Chris and whirled him over his head in a circle, making the boy giggle in delight. The father kissed him proudly on his forehead. "Oh, my boy! You walk, you can walk. I'm so proud of you."
Piper just pinched his cheeks. "You're going to have a great birthday next week, peanut. I promise."
"I promise as well," Leo agreed.
Wyatt was only happy and clapped his hands eagerly. He now really looked forward to the great celebration next week. Oh man, if he'd known earlier what had followed then!
END OF FLASHBACK
Grown up Wyatt snorted in reality as his memories ended. At least he'd made it up for Chris a short time later – when they'd stayed at their Grandpa's. It'd been fun but his attention was called back to reality – by a voice in his head.
'Hey dude, look what I can do,' Chris cried out telepathically. There was silence. 'Wy, are you okay?'
"What?" he asked in reality. Then his eyes focused on the picture on front of him. His baby brother walked on his own. Again. "Chris, you made it! Like a baby – who'd just learned to walk!" He smirked.
"You know if I could, I would do something to you!" the younger male threatened smiling. "But not yet, but I'll get my revenge – soon." He twinkled his eye.
Wyatt laughed now openly. "Fortunately, I'm not here tomorrow. Your wife is. She'll get you on your feet. After all, you're a henpecked husband." He stepped back – for safety but wasn't necessary. Really.
"And you're not?" Chris questioned knowingly. "Steph does the same with you. So be quiet!"
Sandy decided to step in before it got out of hand. "Boys behave! I thought you were grown up already and not children anymore. Could you please stop to bicker?"
"Well, if you ask so nicely, we maybe could," the older male replied, still in a good mood.
"Okay, lesson's over for today, Chris. Do your lessons as we fixed it, okay? Remember, but otherwise until next week. Bye boys!" She waved her hand to them as Sandy was already focused on her next patient. "Out now! I have a job!"
"Bye Sandy," both brothers said in unison as Wyatt wheeled his brother out of the room, running and driving like a wild child. Then he, ever so slowly, made his way to Chris' room, whistling.
As they reached the room, Chris couldn't resist to close it via telekinesis. Oh god, it felt so good to use it again. If only secretly. "Ah yes, wonderful. Nobody saw it, did it?"
"Nope. Hey, I want to visit Grandpa tomorrow. He wants to be up to date with … us."
"Certainly. Greet him from me," Chris said. "Could you go, I want to sleep if you don't mind."
"You'll throw me out?" Wyatt dramatized. "Unbelievable but also true. If you want so and I can see it, I'll leave you now. Sleep well, baby brother. Until next time."
"Night, Wy. Love you," Chris mumbled, already half sleeping.
"I love you, too." Wyatt kissed him on his forehead. "Night." He stayed so long until he was sure nothing would happen to him. Just by slightly touching him, the Twice-Blessed created their special forcefield. Open for good, locked for evil. He just hoped his brother had a good night.
The blond made his way home and had a good night with his wife. On his mind was only if his brother could have such a night as well soon with Cat. Though those two would do it anywhere.
ONE DAY LATER
It was late – in the morning, but it didn't matter. Victor Bennett had retired years ago, so he could enjoy his breakfast. He just missed all of his grandchildren, but mostly the eldest ones of them. Wyatt and Chris. They were often with him as babies and little boys. But now? They were creating a new generation, so he only sighed.
Suddenly there was a knock at his door, startling him and nearly dropping his coffee. "Damn! Who could be coming here at this time?" He stood up and opened the door. Surprised he stated, "Wyatt, son, what brings you here?"
"Hi Grandpa!" The tall blond hugged his grandfather tightly. "Sorry for not coming to you earlier, but I've been busy recently."
"Oh. What's with Chris? He'd been active lately as what your mother told me, but some time ago it stopped all of a sudden. Did something happen you all won't tell me about?" the old man questioned knowingly.
"Well," the young man began. "You should know by now, everything is going to be okay, but our enemy had hit my brother hard." He bit his lip. "He couldn't walk for a while but he's able again. Chris is a fighter."
"WHAT?" Victor cried out incredulously. "Why didn't anyone tell me this? I'd have come to visit my grandson, in the hospital. Why?"
"Grandpa! Please, calm down," Wyatt pleaded. "We wouldn't want to worry you. Besides, I had to protect Chris if Lucifer would come after him still."
"Does he?" His oldest grandson nodded. "Wow, but he's safe now. You're always strong together." Then the old man smiled and laughed a bit.
This caught the younger one's attention. "What is it, Grandpa? What you're smiling about?"
"I just remember all the stunts you both pulled while growing up. Not only on me, but your whole family. Oh man, you could always bring the family to laugh." He became serious again. "And also shocking things."
"I know," Wyatt agreed smiling but also sad. "Anyway, I came here to ask if you still remember how I celebrated Chris' first birthday here. When Grams appeared here, you know."
Victor sighed. "Oh joy. Of course, I do. You both scared me to death this day as you'd locked the door and I couldn't come in."
"Sorry Grandpa. That wasn't my intention."
"It's okay, son. I know why you did it. I fully understand, because I felt disappointed this day as well."
The old man laid his boy's head on his shoulder. He always knew what his grandsons needed at the time being. Both men's mind drifted back to this particular memory.
FLASHBACK
Two little boys were playing in their room at their Grandpa's loft. The older one played with his toys while his younger brother, in his playpen, watched him intensely and a bit sadly. They were the youngest members of the Halliwells.
Wyatt sensed his brother's sadness. "Kwiss, what wrong?"
The younger boy just held his arms out, indicating to want to be with his big brother. He felt being orbed out of the playpen and onto the blanket where his brother was. The boy giggled happily.
The blond smiled at his baby brother. He was always happy when Chris was also happy. So he'd felt disappointed in his whole family as he'd been told, by his parents, why they'd had to cancel Chris' party. Fucking demons! But he'd promised himself to make it up his little brother. That's why now, as they sat together, an idea formed in his mind.
On their blanket, Wyatt conjured something hardly, a candle with light (=fire) and two little cakes – one for each of them. "You pawty," he explained. "Me and you – happy. Own pawty!"
Chris just giggled even more and wanted to thank his big brother, but in his haste to run over he, on accident, knocked the candle down.
The blond saw this and was shocked. He didn't know what to do but raised his forcefield around all things – as a precaution. Then he saw a hand froze all and looked into his brother's green eyes, "Kwis? You did?"
But unfortunately, the power of the brunette was only there and didn't last long. The candle fell down and a small explosion was heard. Both boys were unconscious but protected. In two bubbles.
"Chris? Wyatt?" Victor shouted afraid. He opened the door to their room and what he saw froze him instantly. "Oh my god! Boys, wake up, please! Come on, react!" He cried now and looked at the ceiling. "Please, tell me what's going on!"
A ghost materialized in the room. It was his mother-in-law, the great Penny Halliwell. "Victor, calm down! They're unconscious but fine. Help me to put them into the playpen. To sleep this out."
"They're coming around? Soon?" Penny nodded as she put Chris back into the playpen. Victor did the same with Wyatt. "Thank God! I wouldn't want to bring Piper bad news about their sons. So, what happened to them?"
"Well," Penny started. "It seems as if those two celebrated their own party. Wyatt's own to Chris' first birthday. What the family couldn't." She cried quietly. "Anyway, it was all there. A candle, cakes, but as Chris wanted to thank Wyatt, he knocked the candle down and it exploded slightly. Wyatt had raised his forcefield already, around all and so it'd have hit them. But Chris added his own forcefield to the mix."
"It was too much." Then it dawned in Victor. "Wait. Chris has a forcefield too?"
Penny only nodded and vanished slowly from view as Wyatt slowly began to stir. Looking around the boy looked at his grandfather and smiled. His concern for Chris took over and searched for him. To his relief, his baby brother was sleeping right beside him and so he fell right back on the bed. Sleeping.
Victor just stood over them. He smiled at their sleeping bodies.
END OF FLASHBACK
"Oh yeah. You both could cause enough trouble – for years," Victor concluded smiling. "Especially after Chris came into his powers fully. And yours growing."
"Don't remind me," Wyatt agreed. "Grandpa, I'm so sorry for not coming earlier to you. And not visiting you for so long."
"Don't worry, my boy. I've seen you grow up and I was included, yet now you both have your own lives. I'd been young once too."
"Thanks Grandpa. For anything."
Victor just held his grandson in his embrace, smiling. What he'd missed with his children, he'd made up with his grandchildren. All of them, even Paige's children – which he shared with Sam. Yes, this future was much better than the one before. He was happy.
HALF A MONTH LATER
A little crowd was waiting in front of the entrance to the hospital. As if for a superstar. Just kidding here. It was the complete Halliwell clan who waited for Chris' discharge, because Wyatt had promised a great surprise for them.
Inside, Wyatt had wheeled his little brother to the desk nurse, ready to get the discharge papers, X-rays and some letters for the home doctors. They accepted the procedure as it was normal.
"We're going to miss you boys," she said sighing, handing them the papers. "You brought fun in the house."
Both young men grinned mischievously at her and made their way out as all froze around them. Before they could question each other, a voice called out from the side.
"Welcome back, Christopher! We'll meet soon, boys!"
They looked at each other stunned. However, all was moving again and Chris stood out of the wheelchair and made his way to the automatic doors. He walked slowly and was outside greeted with loud yells and hugs. Most of all, the younger boy concentrated on his wife Cat and his parents.
Wyatt, who followed him with a short interval, looked happily at his family, yet deep inside he knew their greatest battle would come. Both parties would fight with all weapons. He hoped at the end they'd win.
|
|
|
Post by Tim on Sept 12, 2016 5:12:26 GMT -5
21. Heaven & Hell: Strike Three …
MEETING POINT – ONE
"You're not coming with! End of discussion!"
It was only one week later and already the tension in the boys' apartment was hot. The women of the flat didn't know what to do anymore, along with the cat who had fled to them. Their men were discussing their strategy to conquer Lucifer – finally, but obviously they couldn't agree to one issue.
"Why are you so stubborn? Don't answer that, because I know. You do know that only together we could win. Grams told us many times," Chris argued for his behalf. So far with no success.
Wyatt sighed. He knew his brother was right, yet the boy still hadn't recovered fully from his injury. "No, it's still too dangerous for you, Chris! I don't want you to die if you're limping to our enemy. That risk is too much for me."
"I know." Green eyes locked with blue ones. "Okay, but if you go, take at least Cole with you. He can help if need be. You're too vulnerable alone."
"Hey, out of curiousity: Who's the big brother here? Normally I thought it'd be me."
"Yeah, well, sometimes I think it's my job if you're acting childish and being overprotective. I'm grown up by now."
"You are my little brother for god's sakes! Get it in your head, because this is something which never stops, but for our argument I agree with you. I'll call Cole to come with me, but you stay here! Capisce! If you're not here when I'll return, make yourself ready for another long discussion. Clear?"
"Crystal."
At this point, however, the cat strolled in and caught their attention by walking through their legs. "Are you guys done talking? Your heated arguments were heard in the apartment and also in the whole house! So, if you agree with me or could accept it, I'd come with you. I'm more powerful than Cole ever was."
Both brothers looked at each other, considering all facts what the cat had offered. They didn't know what to do.
"Come on, guys. You know it's true and I'm sure Cole is able to protect Cat, Steph and Chris well enough if anything might happen."
A collective sigh was the answer. Inside, the older brother knew the Hollow was right and his last encounter with Cole didn't work. "Okay, you can come with. Convinced me." He turned to his baby brother. "Could you call Cole, please? To come over here while the Hollow and I visit Lucifer."
The younger boy nodded and walked off. Seeing his opportunity Wyatt hastily grabbed the cat and orbed both of them to hell. As Chris returned to the room, he was only met with silence. Stunned he looked around but was distracted as the doorbell rang. Turning around, the young man mumbled some curses and opened the door a bit fiercely.
"Hey Chris," Cole greeted him smiling. "No need to get violent with the door. Did I miss anything?"
"Only that my dear brother sneaked out with the Hollow without saying good-bye! Nothing else."
"Oh." There was silence. "Don't worry, they'll return. Unharmed and happy. The Hollow has knowledge beyond ours for years. And Wyatt's the Twice-Blessed, most powerful witch on earth."
The brunette snorted. "Yeah, but only in an unit with me. We're equal in powers!"
"Okay, okay, I get it. Now, calm down and walk to your wife and Steph. Enjoy your free time for once and train your legs. It still takes time to recover fully. And now go!"
Considering all facts and seeing the truth in his words, the younger man made his way to the women who were already waiting for him. The torture could begin while the demon secured the apartment. He just hoped, the others could achieve some damage to Lucifer.
Meanwhile the blond had reached his destination, with the cat in his arms. It was pitch-dark and the cat hissed quietly what increased the fear of his owner. Slowly they made their way to the throne where he knew the devil would be. Hopefully but then the light switched on – magically.
"It's about time you show up, boy. Again," the Prince said bored, sitting in his throne indeed. "No Cole this time but instead a cat, an animal! How low have you fallen, Twice-Blessed? Tell me."
"The cat is anything but," Wyatt corrected and sat his animal on its four paws. Without any warning he let his firepulse run toward the devil. What confused him was the smile he wore.
Trying to trick his opposites, the Prince appeared in front of the boy, startling him and the cat. "That's all you got, young boy? Not really threatening. Haven't you been told to only fight me with your baby brother?" Then he tried to stroke the cat but its drove out its claws, ready to strike. "Bad cat, really bad cat!"
"I've warned you," the Twice-Blessed said and grabbed the cat once more. Stroking it carefully, to calm it down. "Anyway, what now?"
However, Lucifer laid his hand on Wyatt's arm. Sending a fire through the boy's body what made the boy look up at him – afraid and shocked. "You feel it in you, don't you? Now that's I call a fire. I take it you know now, not to face me alone! Did you learn it?"
Fearfully the blond only nodded to agree. The fire in him made his organs slowly boil. Only seconds later the hand was gone and he could breath normally again. "Okay, I get the message. No need to go further. When should we meet again, then?"
"I want Chris to be fully recovered after our last little … meeting what he doesn't know about. It doesn't matter, but tell him that. He shouldn't do any stunts yet."
"As if he'd listen to me. He's more stubborn than I already am."
"True. Must be your Mom's side in him. Anyway, we'll soon meet again. After all, it's your task to vanquish me. If I let you."
Wyatt only nodded and immediately orbed back home while the devil just smiled after him, but the cat in Wyatt's arms turned back and locked eyes with him before they reappeared in the boys' apartment.
"Oh, thank godness, you're back! You scared us all," Steph greeted and kissed him. She looked a bit concerned at him. "Everything okay with you?"
"Yeah, I'm fine. Don't worry." Blue eyes searched for the green ones of his baby brother who looked at him confused. Their eyes locked and both nodded slightly before he turned back to his wife. "Everything is fine. We should concentrate on the fight."
MEETING POINT – TWO
"That's ridiculous! You've got to be kidding me!"
Chris' voice rang out in the apartment one month later. The boy was back in full health and surely, he was already arguing with his brother about their fight with the devil. Their last one, hopefully. Now, they were "discussing" whether to take their wives with or not.
"Chris, you know I'm right. It's our best chance to survive this. If we take our wives with us, because you'd said earlier too. What's better than to face as four and not only the two of us," Wyatt argued heavily. God, if his brother wasn't just so stubborn.
"Boys! Stop!" Stephanie stepped in. Immediately the men sat down in chairs with arms crossed over their chests. The woman sighed. "Okay, our enemy knows how powerful we all are. So it wouldn't matter if we accompany you or not."
"She's right," Cat agreed. "You know, the devil had studied us long and sure. If you hadn't forgotten, he still wants Chris as his apprentice." She hugged her husband and kissed him briefly. "I don't want to lose him. To evil."
"Neither do I." Wyatt looked at her. "I've been through this before if you remember. Surely I prevented some things, yet the end was awful and horr..." He stopped mid sentence and turned confused to his baby brother. "Chris, are you okay?"
No reaction.
Catherine, who was still close by, shooked him slightly and still there was nothing. "Chris, baby? Wake up! Say something please! Chris?" She turned to Wyatt afraid. "What's wrong?" Her ears reached soothing words, spoken by her older sister.
"I don't know." The blond remained silent, only for safety as if not to upset his sister-in-law. He knew what was happening but couldn't believe it.
All of a sudden Chris jerked up and searched for Wyatt's gaze. "You failed, Twice-Blessed! He's mine, even if only temporarily. Follow me if you want him back. Don't wait so long!" A flame and Chris was gone.
Shocked the three of them looked at each other before Wyatt stood up and made a quick potion. A strong one. Steph and Cat just were concerned about his sanity and Stephanie laid a hand on his arm.
"Wy? What are you doing? What's your plan?" she wanted to know fearfully. "Please, don't do anything stupid!"
"I won't." He leaned down to write the receipt and turned to the women. "Make some more potions." They nodded. "Listen. If we haven't returned in, let's say, three hours, you'll come to our rescue. You know your powers and take these vials then with. We don't know what he's planned for us. So, are we clear?"
"Okay." Steph hugged and kissed him. "Take care. Bring Chris home. We stay to our deal."
Wyatt nodded and smiled at both women and orbed to the lair he was by now familiar with. "Okay, Satan dear, I'm here. Where's my brother?"
"Oh, do you already miss him?" the devil mocked knowingly. "You must love him deeply." He snapped his fingers and Chris appeared, frozen as a statue. "Here, take him. He's useless for me."
The blond raised an eyebrow, not really believing him. "After all this time you just give up? I'm really disappointed in you. I'd have expected more from you. Last time you were more behind, you know."
The Prince of Darkness was not pleased with this threat but said nothing. He pushed the boy to his brother who grabbed and scanned him for injuries. "Don't worry, he's fine. Only a statue. He needs a trigger to wake up."
Gently he laid his baby brother down and checked him once more. "You said the truth. If he's out, then you'll have to deal with me at the moment."
"Well then. What are we waiting for?"
Electric and fire pulses ran through the cave, so each party easily stepped aside and had no success on each one. The dizzling continued for a while longer before slowly the human got tired. The heat and constant fight was taking its toll on him and he fell onto the floor.
"Problems, son? See, if only your brother were awake," Lucifer said smirking. Every time the boy had been here before, he'd adjusted his room. "This is my world, don't forget. Now you can see who wins – at the end."
On instinct, as Wyatt fell to the floor, one hand of his landed on Chris' body, waking him slowly up. Looking around confused, he just saw his brother and … the devil.
"Okay. What happened and why are we here? I take it to fight our last battle with you," the brunette offered smiling. Nervously.
Lucifer clapped his hands happily. "And the winner has 100 points. Too bad your big brother tried and failed. Do you want to now?"
An elder bolt was the answer. "What do you think? Brothers always stick together."
A similar fight to the one before started and there was no winner or loser, yet the boy now seemed to be a bit more resistent. He was harder to fight with what amused the Prince and made him increase his powers. Yet the boy stood on his spot and Lucifer smiled.
"You're good, I must admit. Where did you learn that, boy?"
"My secret." His feet was near Wyatt's body and their link and magic combined, making the younger boy stronger. "Thanks Wy," he whispered quietly, but still he was weakening – slowly.
"Something wrong, boy? I can feel you're getting weaker by any minute we're fighting. Famous last words, Christopher?"
"Not yet if you think so low of me. I've been through a lot of things already and so has Wyatt. We're an unit."
"Where are your wives? Shouldn't they be here? To help you? I know they're powerful and would come to save you."
"I guess you'll have to wait and see, my friend."
Lucifer smiled warmly. "You're really a challenge. To anyone. I like and love this."
"Well, I'm glad to be of help – for this."
Their fight continued a little while longer before Chris also weakened and fell onto the floor as well, next to his brother. Through their bond and link both grabbed each one's hand for support.
"How pathetic," the devil mocked. "Let's end this, shall we?"
"I think it's our turn now," a female voice said.
And Lucifer came face-to-face with Catherine and Stephanie Halliwell.
… GAME OVER?
"Ah ladies. Coming to join your men?" the devil greeted them smiling. "They're too weak for me as you can see."
Both women looked down at the bodies of their husbands and were relieved to see, their link still worked as the hands of them were next to each other.
"You know I've heard so much about you and it's good to finally meet you."
"Well, didn't you want to see the powers we have? Now you are lucky to get them first hand," Stephanie threatened, creating an energy ball in her hand.
"Or do you want to see how hot your hell could get if I add my fire to it," Catherine added, sounding very confident. She noticed how Wyatt and Chris were slowly coming around.
"Mhm, interesting. Are you really sure you can threaten me? I'm Lucifer, the Prince of Darkness. You're only women, (mostly) necessary to get children and doing the household."
"Hey!" both sisters shouted furiously and let their powers fly to attack. "Oops," they said sheepishly. To their surprise they wounded him and both looked at each other stunned.
"Ouch. That was unexpected, clearly. But that means I was right about you four: powerful witches to another pair of powerful witches. Halliwells and Whitmans. Clearly haven't expected this."
As the devil put some distance between him and the girls, Wyatt and Chris recovered and stood up. Looking around the brothers saw Lucifer in a short distance from them and their wives here, looking shocked at each other.
"Okay, what just happened? And why are you here?" Chris wanted to know.
Cat grabbed his hand and kissed him long and lovingly. "We hurt Lucifer, even if we thought it wasn't possible. He was a bit shocked like we were."
"And the rest?"
Steph stepped in. "We'd made a deal with Wy which just ran off. We came to help. We're witches too."
Chris sighed and looked at his brother knowingly. "I take it you were desperate and used my own words against me." He laughed a bit cynically. "Okay, then back to business. We'll have someone to vanquish still!"
"Oh, you mean me," Lucifer's voice came in and all four heads turned toward him. "If you hadn't forgotten already, I'm not easy to kill. Being a real fallen angel, you know. I thought you've learnt good and evil must exist side by side, haven't you? Someone will follow me, anyway."
Wyatt tapped his foot impatiently. "Are you done yet?" He looked directly at him. "If you must know, you are right. We do know the risk but we've got permission from your former boss. So, can we?"
The Prince of Darkness raised an eyebrow. "Oh. You ask if we can? Of course, I'm ready at anytime." He increased his fire around those four young people. "Happy?"
Curiosity took the best of the women and they tried to touch the fire but their men snapped them away as a precaution. With their looks they were saying, 'Are you nuts?' Yet their women just glared at them back.
The devil watched them amused but remained silent. He seriously doubted they could kill him. He was Lucifer, for God's sake! Speaking of his former boss: If he'd agreed to let him be killed by the Halliwells, then he could really count his days as they'd already found a new one. Wonderful.
Seeing the devil distracted, the younger brother whispered to the others, "Cat and Steph should switch places, because with that we'd increase our strength." Three incredulous looks made him sigh and shook his head smiling. He became serious again, only a second later. "Steph adds her electricity to my electric bolts while Cat does the same to your energy blast."
"You think this works?" Wyatt asked confused.
"It's worth a shot, but still hold each other by hand. This is important. No matter what happens. Clear?"
The three of them nodded while the sisters switched places. As it was done, the older brother confirmed, "Crystal."
"Just by switching places you wanna defeat me? You're kidding me, aren't you?" Lucifer sent another round of fire at the four but they stood. "Okay, if you want so, you can have it!"
"Guys, do as ask! We can't give up!" Chris yelled above all noises. "Concentrate!"
"Christopher! If you'd listened to your brother earlier, I'm sure you know I never give up. I'll get what I want. Anytime."
"No, not this time," Wyatt cut in. "You never get him! This is my promise."
"We'll see, son. We'll see."
For the two couples it was getting harder to stand at their feet, yet Wyatt and Chris whispered for Excalibur and combined it with their energetic and electric powers. It disappeared quickly again which with the addition of their wives' ones, it seemed to work but they were getting weaker and exhausted. Deep down the two women and men knew they had to win.
"Time to end it. For good," Lucifer said hopefully.
"You are right," Chris agreed. "Time to finish you! As well for good."
The two powers collided and Steph and Cat had problems to hold tight. They could see their men didn't feel better and the four of them swayed slightly. This was the opportunity the devil waited for and he increased his attack. What the young people resisted.
"Damn you!" Lucifer cursed violently.
With a last effort the Halliwells increased their powers as well but the exhaustion caught up with them and their hold on each other broke. A great explosion followed with a loud scream coming from Lucifer and Wyatt protected Cat with his forcefield from upfalling debris in the cave.
What no one knew, God had helped them – with a little shot from his finger. He smiled at them but it falted when he noticed Chris and Steph were missing.
"Whoa Wy," Cat said. "Thanks for saving me but …" She looked around. "Where are Steph and Chris?"
Wyatt looked around and saw under the debris a female hand and a bit in the dark a male one. He gasped and immediately ran over to his wife and brother, trying to dig them out with tears running down his cheeks.
Cat had her hands in front of her mouth. "Oh my God! Wyatt, please tell me they're still alive! This can't be happening." She cried heavily.
"Help me, Cat! So that we could bring them home and I'll heal them. Quick!"
She nodded and ran to her husband, doing the same like her brother-in-law. Tears ran down her cheeks and she feared for her older sister and husband. It'd kill her and Wyatt if they'd lost them. Catherine digged quicker.
"Got her!" "Got him!" both Cat and Wyatt said at the same time. They looked at each other and smiled.
"Can you orb all of us?" she asked afraid.
"Don't worry. Now come over, hold Chris tight and take my hand then. I'll orb us home," he offered.
Cat nodded and did as told. So soon both man and woman were back at the apartment where Stephanie and Chris were laid into the bed. Immediately Wyatt started to heal his wife and baby brother with one hand over each body. Nervously they waited for the result.
Stephanie came around at first. She coughed and hugged her sister and husband briefly. "Did we win?" Her sister nodded. "That's good." She looked at Chris, still unconscious and hurt. "He protected me with his body as the cave broke down. He's really a protector."
Only a minute later Chris woke up, gasping for breath but this was taken from him as he was hugged by his older brother. "It's okay, Wy. I'm back. Everything is fine and Lucifer is gone. So, once again a victory for the Halliwells."
"Don't ever scare and shock me like this again! You both! I mean, we killed the devil and then you both got buried under debris," Wyatt said firmly. "At least, you survived."
Each partner went to their respective one in bed, hugged and kissed them lovingly. They were just happy to have survived and win over the Prince of Darkness. The two couples deepened the activities, so one of them fled to their own room. Let's just say, it was so hot and active in the apartment – like in hell.
After it died down, the women fell asleep on their men who looked happily at the ceiling. All their hope now lay in the future.
|
|
|
Post by Tim on Sept 12, 2016 5:13:14 GMT -5
22. A happy, wonderful endTHREE MONTHS LATERStephanie was in the bathroom of her home, waiting for the result of the pregnancy test she'd bought two days ago. It was just a feeling, yet it could be possible. Their last … ahm … was very hot and her menstruation was overdue – long. There was a knock at the door and a beep following. She decided to answer the door first and then look at her result. "Hey sis," Cat said, strolling in and with a pregnancy test in her hand. "What you're doing here?" Then she saw it. "Oh. What does it say?" The older sister walked over and … sighed. "Positive. Great, Wyatt will be thrilled." She looked at her baby sister and smiled. "I take it you have the same feeling like me." Then she laughed. If this happened, it'd be fun for the whole clan. The younger one blushed. "Yeah," she admitted. "You mind?" Steph made space for her, so Cat did as written on the box. A long silence stood between them. "How do you think Wyatt will react to the news?" "Either faint or throw me around like a wheel. Oh joy!" "Or better: Both will keel over. Literally." Both smirked and had to hide their laughter at the mental image. Stephanie recovered faster. "How did Chris' exam go? It was two weeks ago and the result should be out now." A beep distracted Cat from answering. She looked at it and … sighed. "Congrats. You're going to be an aunt as well." Another sigh. "No, the results aren't out yet. As far as I know, but this destroys my plan for doing my own exam next year." "Don't worry, it'll sort itself out." She blinked. "After all, your husband is smarter than mine." "By the way, where are our better halfs right now?" The older woman indicated to the ceiling. "Don't know exactly if either by the Elders or their bosses. What do you think Piper and Leo will say? They always wanted to be grandparents." "Oh joy." The younger one sighed. "And our parents first. We should call them and tell it as long as we wait." "No, at first the boys, then the parents, okay?" Steph asked and Cat reluctantly agreed nodding. "I hope, our all knowing people won't spill anything. If they do, they'll have to face us! You hear me 'Up There', don't you?" Outside, it seemed the clouds were hiding from them. "Agreed," Cat laughed. Both women's laughter could be heard and they enjoyed their free time. Stephanie and Catherine made already plans when the children would be born and their lives with them. At least, the next generation was on the way. UP THEREGajus sighed. In front of him were two impatient young men who waited for answers. Which he couldn't give them, yet he wanted to. They'd been given strict orders not to, what was hard. After all, they were dealing with Halliwells. "Gajus, what are you not telling us?" Chris wanted to know. "There's something, isn't it? We know your little games." "Long enough," Wyatt agreed. "So, what are you hiding from us? Should we know something special?" "Indeed," the Elder spoke up happily. "Our boss would love to see you both. To thank you for your good work with Lucifer and soon. You'll have to orb one step of level higher. Shoot, shoot!" Hearing those strange words coming from an Elder, both brothers raised an eyebrow at him and then shrugged. "Okay. And how do we reach him?" Chris asked sarcastically. "It's not that he's in the telephone book or so? Any ideas now?" "You'll just wait," Gajus suggested and started to walk away. "Good luck, boys and thank you." Wyatt shook his head, certainly not believing what he was hearing. "Okay, we'll wait then." He looked at his brother. "We should improve our clicking meanwhile." Chris shot him an annoyed look. "Very funny. You don't think we've inherited this in our genes, do you? God Wy, use your brain for once!" The older brother slapped him on his head. "Ha, don't get too cocky with me! I know you better than anyone else. You can stop that attitude around me." "Well, I'm your baby brother. That's my job," came the instant reply, but the younger boy shrunk away afraid. As the Twice-Blessed laughed at the sight, both boys were transported one level higher and while they reformed, the half Elder growled loudly and shot his brother a look which would have him dead. If he'd looked at him. It looked like he was ready to start a battle. God decided to step in before it'd come to that. "Boys, please! No need to fight. I'd rather talk with you and so I beg you to sit down at the table and listen." He sat down and waited for their reaction. Slowly and reluctantly the Halliwell brothers did as told, still glaring at each other but directed their eyes to God who smiled at them happily. What annoyed them and made them sigh. "Wyatt, Christopher, I'm glad you came and I wanted to thank you for vanquishing Lucifer. This version was such a nuisance by working with the Avatars, Barbas and played with time. Therefore he needed to be gone." "We know that already," Chris interjected bored. "Come to the point, damn it!" Wyatt now slapped him on his arm. "Behave, why don't you? That's God we're talking to." But his little brother only shrugged. He sighed. Irritated at first but then laughing, God pushed all of this away. "That's okay. You're humans and it's understandable for you to react the way you did. Again, a big Thank you for killing Lucifer." "You're welcome. So, what's with our destinies? Fulfilled yet?" the blond asked curiously. "Nope, but you'll still have a few tasks to do, but these are only minors unlike this one." He watched around and smiled. "I think one of those involves your wives and your future." "What do you mean?" the brunette wanted to know, now awake and interested. The man smirked. "You'll see soon, son. You'll see. As your ladies even threatened the Elders if they would tell you their secret. Oh joy. Be aware when you return home." Both brothers looked at each other confused and decided to orb home immediately. If they were allowed to, that is. So, Wyatt and Chris used their secret weapon to get things done their way: puppy dog eyes. "You can go if you want to," God said and saw how they started to orb. "Don't forget to stop by with the Elders. They'll give some directions for these new tasks. It doesn't matter if it is before or after you visited your wives. Good luck and enjoy!" "Okay," Wyatt replied for both of them and hurried him to orb home. When he'd follow any second as they were eager to know what secret their women had. God studied the leaving orbs with hopeful eyes. He knew they'd chosen right ages ago, to let have Melinda Warren powers and speak the spell to increase the family's powers. The Charmed Ones had proven their loyalty for many years, even if the Elders had given them a hard time sometimes. And now the first generation after them was also well-raised and trained. Wyatt and Christopher Halliwell were really the heirs to the Warren line. BOYS' APARTMENTAs orbs were heard, the sisters emerged from the bathroom, shocking their men. Steph and Cat had to hide their laughter by seeing their shocked faces. Obviously they'd received a hint about their 'condition'. "Okay, girls, what's going on? What's your secret?" Chris asked nervously and curiously. "Yeah," Wyatt agreed. "What is it?" Looking at each other and walking to their respective man, Stephanie and Catherine laid their arms around the men's neck and kissed them lovingly. What irritated the men even more. Steph started rather nervously. "Well, we really have good news for you. And also for our parents. Well, you're going to be Dads. Cat and I are pregnant at the same time. What'd you say?" As predicted, their mouths hung open before indeed they fainted with a loud thud. It was going to take a while before the brothers could speak and act again. Normally. As after ten minutes there still was no reaction, the sisters got concerned slightly. Kneeling down they gently slapped their men on the cheeks, in hope to wake them up. As groans were heard, Steph and Cat sighed in relief. "Hey guys, feeling well?" the younger sister asked mischievously, full knowing how they must feel. "Oh boy," Chris answered. "I thought I dreamed you'd said you're pregnant. And Steph too. My life will be good with this." "You're not dreaming, sweetie," Cat giggled. "This is your new reality." Chris just laid down again and let himself be taken care of by his wife while Wyatt had opened his eyes, sat up and then hugged his wife, kissing her. "I'm wondering what our parents would say," the older boy said aloud. "I mean, they've always wanted to have grandchildren." "Yeah, our way to get to know each other," Steph agreed, kissing him. "Don't remind me." He searched for his brother. "Chris, you okay? I mean, after this shock." "If you're in the same plight like me, I can live with that. So, who tells our parents?" Cat laid her arm on Chris' chest and looked at him lovingly. "Steph and I decided to call ours while you call yours and in the end, we'll arrange a meeting of them all in the Manor. To tell them the news. You with us?" "Sure, we're with you. Who starts?" Steph grabbed the phone and told John and Sarah rather cryptically to meet them at the Manor. Moments later she handed it to Wyatt to do the same with Piper and Leo. He nearly used the same words like she what made her slap him – amused. "So, we're ready to let this nuclear bomb drop on them?" Cat asked curiously. "If you think so, but when we'll go we should do something for our bodies," Chris stated bluntly. Wyatt now was shocked. "You can only think of one thing! Haven't you realized what this has brought us up recently? As Cat had said: Welcome to the new reality!" "I know that." Chris grinned mischievously at his older brother. "Honestly, I more fear for your sanity as a Daddy." Quickly he stood up and ran away. "You little …," Wyatt threatened laughing and chased after his baby brother. Their childish antics could be heard through the apartment, making the women shake their heads amused. Then they grinned and smiled at each other. "Do you think they ever grow up?" Cat asked Steph curiously. "Nope." MANOR – A FEW DAYS LATERPiper and Leo were in the conservatory, discussing some things which were in their minds. Their eldest had given them a rather cryptic message which was, normally, a trait of their youngest. But the parents were curious but distracted as the doorbell rang. "Who could this be?" Leo asked confused. "Time to find out," Piper said, standing up and walking to the front door. As she opened it, she greeted their guests loudly. "John, Sarah, welcome! Come on in. Why are you here?" "Hello Piper, Leo," John greeted them, walking in and taking a seat near Leo. "Our girls gave us a strange message and we'd meet all of them here." Piper's eyes widened. "Our boys did the same. What are they hiding?" "No idea," Sarah replied shrugging. "But I'm sure we'll find out as soon as our children arrive. What were you doing before we came?" "Nothing, actually," Leo answered. "Just thinking about the message as well. Whatever they're hiding, it must be big. Really big, but I'm sure it's good." "You're sure?" his wife questioned him. He nodded. "Okay, then let's wait till our kids come. Hopefully soon." The man shook his head, knowing his wife's impatience with their sons. Especially if they had secrets. Knowledge and experience from the first Chris but now they were one and the same. Even Wyatt had some extra memories and experiences. God, his head hurt but smiled at everyone. "Leo, everything okay?" John asked concerned. "You were zoned out for a while. You're fine, aren't you?" He nodded. "I am, John. Sorry." "Okay, it's okay. Sometimes I also remember special moments with my kids, though they'd been enough trouble growing up." "You have no idea." After that the men chatted about more stuff they liked like sport, tools and so on while the women did the same about their likings. It was a natural parents-to-parents talk with magical children. As normal as it could be if there were not orbs forming or running feet were heard. All heads turned towards the upcoming people. From the orb formed the elder couple who greeted them smiling. "Hi folks! What's up?" Both grinned mischievously. "You tell us," Sarah scolded amused. Right then the younger couple bolted in. "Hi guys," Chris greeted them, with Cat firmly in his hand. "We late?" he asked. "No," Piper said, kissing her baby, eldest and daughters-in-law. "Now, tell us what you wanted to tell us. We're dying to know." "Okay. I think, you'd be pleased to know this," Steph started, holding onto Wyatt for dear life. This was a bomb, but a good one. "Yeah," Cat added nervously. Suspicious glares came from the older generation who tried to figure out their children's secret but they were distracted as a little white bird flew in and landed directly in Chris' awaiting hands. The other three younger ones knew what it was but both sets of parents were curious. "What's that?" Piper asked curiously as the bird changed into a letter. "Personal gain, peanut!" "Mom relax, would you? It's my own special magic which only works by important letters. I made sure no one would ever notice it, don't worry," the younger boy explained. Leo put his hand on his son's shoulder. "Open it and then tell us what your secret is. No escape now!" Chris searched for the eyes of his older brother who just swallowed hard, not saying anything. "Okay, deal." He quickly opened the letter and said, "It's from the university. Maybe the result from the last test." "Or already your degree." That earned Wyatt a look. "I know there'd be a celebration then. I was just kidding." "Fine, time to find out," Chris said determined and began to read out loud. "Dear Mr Halliwell, we want to congratulate you on passing this test successfully. With this letter we also inform you that you are the best student ever at our university, so you'll be receiving a special reward. The hospital choice will lay in your hands." Here he stopped. "Wow." All embraced him quickly and congratulated him, but Leo held tightly mostly. "Thank you, son. Thank you for everything." "You're welcome, Dad. There's still Magic School if you haven't forgotten." "I know. But now your big secret," the father insisted with his own green eyes. The men just turned to their women who patted them on their shoulders and stepped forward, gulping hard. Stephanie as the eldest took charge and shared a look with her younger sister, who nodded to confirm, and revealed very nervously, "Well, you're going to be grandparents. Cat and I are pregnant at the same time. So what you say?" A stunned, rather shocked silence filled the room before exploding in happiness and joy. They hugged their children excitedly and so many words were spoken in a rush that no one could understand what was said. The room was buzzed with sounds. "Enough!" Leo demanded over his family and all turned to him as expected. Looking over his family, the father concentrated on his boys only. "Wyatt, Steph, how will you manage it with your job? And Chris and Cat too – with your med-study?" Wyatt looked at his baby brother as if for permission to beg in, but the boy was more focused on something different. The blond sighed. "I think, since we're our own bosses, there wouldn't and shouldn't be a problem. I'm sure if we have a problem with the club, Mom will help us, won't you?" Piper beamed up happily and hugged her eldest proudly. "Of course, I'll help you if need be. I'll miss my club." She turned now to her baby. "And you two? I know Chris has finished his study now, but Cat?" "Yeah," Sarah agreed and John nodded. "Well," Chris started embarrassed. "I guess we'll find a solution if it comes to the worst. I mean, I could postpone my hospital start for a while or start it and take a break then." He went with his hand through his hair and sighed. "I don't know yet. If it goes hard on hard, I'll know where to find someone who will." He grinned like a chesire cat. His mother slapped him on his upper arm playfully and amused. His father and parents-in-law followed. At the end there was a sore spot on Chris' upper arm. "Ouch." He rubbed his arm. "Okay, I get it. You'll see what we do. In time." Sarah engulfed her daughters in a family hug. "Do you already know what gender you'll have? I want to know in which month you are." Steph answered for both of them. "We think, it's the third month we're in. More after we consulted a doctor. As for the gender: Ask Chris as he was the one to have seen the future already." All heads turned to him. "That could be changed already. Remember, it was a vision created by the Avatars. In a way it's the same situation like Mom's. Years ago she'd seen a daughter with Dad and Aunt Prue still alive, yet today she has two sons and no daughter. The future is a river. We still can change all." "Can you at least tell us what we'd have had?" Cat asked innocently. Her sister and brother-in-law agreed nodding. "Okay." He looked at his older brother. "You and Stephanie would have had two boys and Cat and I a son and a daughter. But it seems my life is the same." "How do you mean?" Wyatt wanted to know curiously. "Well, I'll be a doctor – proven with this letter." He shook it in front of all. "And I'll be a teacher at Magic School." "Which is nearly done," Leo said, embracing his youngest son with a huge smile. He was really proud of his baby boy. "He's really following in my footsteps. Two lives united in one." In return, Chris hugged his father – like he did as a child. "Thanks Dad. For everything," he whispered in the man's ear. Both men then joined the rest of the family who had already taken seats back in chairs and on the couch. Each couple sat together, except two, so Leo and Chris went to their respective partners. The two families, Whitmans and Halliwells, talked about the upcoming future with their grandchildren. It had a calming effect on Chris and more as Catherine snuggled into his chest. He smiled and then felt a breath of wind in his neck. Turning around he noticed that the front door was still open. Another little smile flitted over Chris' face as he, with a gesture of his hand, let the family's affairs stay inside and closed the door. THE END!
A/N for Betty: These are not the ones Tim meant. They'll follow soon. Hopefully. Trying to get the shorties on board first before the longer ones happen again, especially one. *sighs*
|
|