Author Note – This story is not related to my other Charmed FanFic. It is a separate story set after 'Power of Three Blonds'. There is discussion of abuse and rape in this story but NOT actual scenes of it. Please note this is rated M and has some mild swearing in it.

UPDATE - 07/10/15 - just tidying things up and hoping it inspires me again.


HPOV (Helena)

Helena trembled behind the bookshelf knowing she had no chance of escape or survival. As she heard him draw closer she used the only thing she had left that could be of any help.

I call upon the Ancient Powers

Help me now in this darkest hour

Take me to what I hope to find

A safer place in space and time

Grant me this my heart's desire

Save me from his hateful ire

Suddenly he came around the corner, victory flared briefly in his eyes but when shimmering lights started to surround her, his expression changed from victory to rage.

Wrenching the blade she had thrown at him from his shoulder, he threw it at her. Helena caught it just before it penetrated her heart. She smiled at his howl of rage and she disappeared.


HPOV

Helena flinched as she came round. Every bone in her body ached.

'Mama?'

Opening her eyes, Helena sat up and spun towards the small voice. 'Micheal?' Helena smiled in delight at the sight of her son sat on an unusual chair. 'Oh Micheal!' Helena went to him and gathered him up. 'You're safe, it brought you as well!'

'Where are we Mama?' Her son clung to her tightly.

Helena looked around room carefully, it looked a little like a parlour, but there were unusual changes that made her wonder if she had been moved forward in time. 'I'm not sure darling, but I cast a spell to take us to safety so – ' Helena broke off when she heard voices approaching. 'Micheal, stay behind me.'

As Micheal moved behind her skirts Helena turned to face the direction the voices were coming from. Bracing herself Helena summoned energy balls to her hands.


CPOV (Chris)

'Piper I'm telling you, I heard something.' Chris rolled his eyes as he went downstairs, followed by a reluctant Piper. As he reached the bottom of the stairs Chris saw a woman in the sunroom holding energy balls. 'Demon!' He jumped the last step and ducked behind the sofa to dodge the energy ball thrown at him.

Piper blew up the other energy ball the demon held, but had to duck behind the banister, when the demon quickly summoned another. Chris looked out from behind the sofa just in time to see an energy ball coming at his face. Chris instinctively used his telekinesis to deflect the potentially lethal projectile back to its creator.


HPOV

Helena's eyes widened as the young man sent her energy ball back to her. Turning to shield Micheal, Helena let out a strangled yell as the energy ball struck her back.

'Mama!' Micheal clutched at her as she fell.

Helena almost laughed at the irony of her situation. She had escaped him, travelling through time to do so, only to be hit by her own energy ball.


PiPOV (Piper)

'Chris! Stop!' Piper yelled out.

Piper felt her heart stop when she heard a child cry out. As the woman fell to the floor the boy that had been hidden behind her came into sight.

'Mama!' The boy cried as he clung to the woman.

Piper ran down the stairs and started towards the woman and the boy.

'Piper be careful!' Chris said as she passed him.

'Chris, he's just a boy!'

'So is Wyatt.'

Piper stopped and realised he was right. If the woman was the boy's mother, he might have powers too…but she couldn't just stand there as the boy cried for his mother. Piper approached slowly trying not to frighten the small boy, who looked about three or four.

The boy suddenly looked up at Piper as she got closer. 'Go away!' He shouted at her. The boy clutched his mother closer and to Piper's shock he formed a shield around them both that was a lot like Wyatt's.

'Whoa,' said Chris as he came to stand beside her.

'Yeah that's what I thought.' Piper said quietly as she took a couple of steps closer to the boy and the unconscious woman. Piper took in their strange clothes for the first time. They looked like they had stepped out of a Henry VIII movie.

'It's okay little one, we didn't mean to hurt your Mama. We thought she was going to hurt us.'

'Mama wouldn't hurt anyone!' The little boy got an extremely angry look on his face. 'She's nice.'

Piper lifted her hands in surrender. 'Okay, okay. It was a mistake. If you let down your shield we can help your Mama.'


HPOV

Helena came around as the woman asked Micheal to lower his shield. Shifting Helena tried to turn to see the woman.

'Aagh!' Helena yelled as she jarred her injury. She had forgotten about that.

'Let us help you.'

Helena turned, carefully, to see a woman stood a few feet away. The young man was a little behind her, watching Helena warily. The woman looked to be in her late twenties with long brown hair. The man looked a lot like her and Helena wondered if he was her younger brother.

'Mama?'

Helena looked at Micheal. He was looked at her, clearly afraid. 'It's okay darling.' Helena pushed herself up into a sitting position, biting her lip to keep from crying out and frightening Micheal even more. Helena turned to the woman and put her hand through the shield. 'Swear on your magic that you'll keep him safe while I can't.'

The woman's eyes widened a little. 'What does that mean?'

Helena pushed back the fogginess to focus on the woman. 'It means that if you swear to it and then don't protect him your magic will turn on you and destroy you.'

'Piper don't.' The young man stepped up to the woman, Piper.

'Chris, she needs help.'

Helena knew that without assurances the man – Chris – would not let Piper help her. 'If you like, I will swear not to harm any member of your family, so long as it does not harm Micheal.'

Piper glanced at Chris who frowned but nodded.

'Okay, what do I have to do?'

Helena drew a breath to try and steady herself. 'Take my hand, say your full name and then say 'I swear to protect Micheal, to the best of my ability while his mother is unable.''

Piper took her hand. 'I Piper Halliwell, swear to protect Micheal, to the best of my ability, while his mother is unable.'

Helena pushed back the encroaching darkness again. If she fainted before completing the vow, Micheal would be unprotected. 'I Helena Drummond, swear to never harm a member of the Halliwell family, so long as doing so does not harm my son Micheal.' As she finished a golden light surrounded their clasped hands. The light briefly formed a chain connecting them to each other before fading. 'Micheal you can trust Piper now okay? Let them help Mama.' When Micheal nodded Helena gave in to the darkness.


PiPOV

Piper gasped as the woman fainted. Piper had seen her fighting it off while they had made the vow.

'Mama!' Micheal cried out again.

'It's okay, let down your shield and we'll help her.' Piper knelt next to the boy and smiled at him.

Micheal hesitated briefly before letting his shield down. Piper sighed in relief. 'Chris help me lift her into the front room.'

Chris grabbed the woman under the arms as Piper took her legs. As they carefully carried her into the front room and placed her down on the sofa, Micheal came over and grabbed her hand. 'Don't worry sweetie, we'll help her. Chris go get –' Piper cut off as Wyatt orbed into the living room. Evidently he had decided that since there were no loud noises he could come down. 'Wyatt, Mommy told you to stay upstairs.' Wyatt was coming up on his first birthday and was starting to find his own personality. Wyatt ignored Piper and smiled at Micheal, clearly he thought he had a new playmate. 'Micheal, this is my little boy Wyatt. Do you want to play with him while I help your Mommy?'

Micheal looked down at his Mom and then back to Wyatt who waved at him. 'Okay.' As Micheal went over to sit near Wyatt, the younger boy orbed some off his toys to them. Piper bit her lip, but decided to let the magic pass. She needed to focus on Helena. 'Chris go get the first aid kit and then go get my sisters.' As Chris left the room Piper turned her attention back to the younger woman. She looked to be about Chris' age. Piper slowly peeled the neckline of her dress away. The energy ball had hit right over her spine, which might explain why she had been in some much pain. Piper took in Helena's dress again. It was excellently made, it looked as though it was all hand stitched.

'Here you go Piper.' Chris came back in and handed the first aid kit to her. 'She still out?'

'Yeah, have you seen her dress?' Piper opened the kit and took out a small potion phial, that would help cool and sooth the burnt skin quicker than any lotion could. 'Go get Phoebe and Paige Chris. She might have promised not to hurt us but we don't know if she'll be followed.' Chris nodded and orbed away.

Piper went back to her patient and carefully dabbed the lotion on her burn. When she pulled her dress further out of the way Piper noticed her back. It was covered in what looked like scars from a whip. Frowning Piper looked further down, Helena's whole back was covered in whip scars!


CPOV

Chris paced up and down behind the sofa that held their unconscious guest. The Piper was sat on one chair and Phoebe on the other, Paige was perched on the arm of Phoebe's chair.

'So she just arrived here?' Phoebe said she looked at the young woman.

'Yeah, we were upstairs when we heard something.' Piper said she kept glancing over her shoulder. The two boys had been moved into the sunroom to play so that they could talk in private. 'When we came down she was there.'

'She used energy balls?' Paige said frowning. 'Isn't that just a demonic power?'

'Usually.' Chris said feeling the need to explain. 'Good witches can occasionally have it, but it's almost unheard of.' Chris frowned as he remembered that some of the good witches Wyatt turned in the future, developed the power after becoming evil. 'We need to be careful when she wakes up.'

'Chris she swore not to hurt any Halliwells, that's good enough for me.' Piper sighed at him.

Chris held back a smile at her exasperated tone. It was the tone she got when someone wasn't agreeing with her. 'Still…we don't know anything about her. She could cause us a lot of trouble.'

'When are we not dealing with trouble of some kind?' Paige said sarcastically. 'Besides if you could heal…'

'I already told healing's a big thing and –'

'Newbie lighter.' Paige said rolling her eyes. 'Should've told us that before we hired you.'

Chris squinted at her. 'You didn't hire me, I was assigned to you. Completely different.'

'Whatever.' Paige rolled her eyes at him dismissively.

'Ugh…' Helena suddenly shifted and groaned.

Chris stopped pacing and quickly went round to the front of the sofa. Crouching beside her Chris watched as she slowly came around.

She started to turn but stopped and winced.

'Careful,' said Chris making her jump. 'That's a pretty bad hit you took.'

'Yes, so I can feel.' Helena slowly sat up cringing slightly.

Chris smiled at her wry humour. 'Well Piper's put a pack on the burn that should help.'

Helena looked past him to Piper. 'Thank you, for your care and your Vow.'

'Yeah, about that…' Phoebe said impatiently, '…what was that Vow exactly?'

'This is my sister Phoebe, and my other sister Paige. We thought it best if we were together.'

'A wise precaution, despite my Vow.' Helena looked past them into the sunroom to look at the two boys, before looking back at Piper. 'Your son?'

Piper glanced at the boys smiling. 'Yes, Wyatt is almost one, how about Micheal?'

'Almost four.' Helena regarded Phoebe a little coolly. 'To answer your question, the Vow is…an ability I have. It is essentially a magical contract, to break it causes your own magic to turn on you.'

'You didn't give Piper much choice in saying it.' Paige said frowning.

Chris mentally smiled at Paige's tactical way of thinking. She always looked at things both strategically and emotionally.

'I suppose so.' Helena looked at the three women before looking at Chris. 'If necessary, I would have killed both of you to protect Micheal.'

Chris felt his eyes widen a little as she watched him. He assumed since Helena was looking at him as she that, she took him for the greatest threat.

'From what Piper said you were barely conscious. How –' Paige said starting to get riled up.

Helena stood up suddenly, making Chris retreat quickly from the sudden anger in her eyes.

'Trust me, this wound is nothing.' Helena summoned an energy ball to each hand. One of them lunged at Chris and before he could react it hit him. Instead of injuring him though it shattered harmlessly. 'I have no need to direct my attacks physically, I can do so mentally with great ease.'

Paige and Phoebe had stood up at her attack but hadn't been able to react. Piper had started to make a motion to blow up the energy ball but hadn't been able to move quickly enough either.

Chris glanced down at his untouched shirt. He slowed his breathing and looked back at Helena who was now regarding him again. 'Nice moves.'

Helena grinned at him and laughed a little. 'You mean nice temper I believe, do you not?'

Chris watched as she sat down again, her anger gone. 'I suppose so, you've got my Mom's temper.' Chris saw the sisters look at him. He knew they were surprised at his admission, he tried to tell them as little as possible. Chris realised that Helena was watching him with dancing eyes.

'Hmm…I'll take that as a compliment.' Helena broke off as Micheal ran in.

'Mama!' The small boy threw himself at his mother.

Helena's face lit up as she hugged her son, despite her injury being irritated by the movement. 'Micheal! Did you behave for Piper?'

'Yes Mama. I've been playing with Wyatt, I like his toys and he's funny to talk to.' Micheal rattled this off very quickly, but Helena just smiled.

'That's lovely, why don't you go play again while I tell everyone about us?'

Chris expected the boy to run off again but instead he frowned.

'Will you tell them about…him?' Micheal's comment ended in a whisper that Chris barely heard.

'Yes sweetheart. Now, go play with Wyatt.'

This time Micheal did run off and Chris heard Wyatt's delighted squeal at his new friend's return.

Piper frowned at Helena. 'What did he mean that Wyatt is funny to talk to, he doesn't talk yet.'

'Micheal has an unusual ability to be able to communicate with anyone. Even babies.' Helena paused as Piper nodded. 'I'll tell you anything you want to know.' She looked at everyone as she said that, her gaze resting on Chris again.

Chris decided to go first. 'Who are you?' That seemed to be the most pressing question, if they knew that it would answer a lot.


HPOV

Helena smiled at Chris's question. He seemed to be hiding something…she could feel it. Plus with the women's reaction to his comment about his mother, that put aside the theory that he was Piper's younger brother. Who was he?

'I take you don't mean my name?' Helena grinned when she saw a flare of frustration in his handsome brown eyes. 'I'll start with mine and my son's powers. As you saw Micheal has a shield and his communication ability, which is a form of telepathy. My own abilities are my energy balls and my Vow making, that you've seen, I also…' Helena hesitated. 'I also have some psychic abilities, telekinesis and projection. That's along with a witch's latent abilities.'

'So you are a witch? We weren't sure.' Chris said as he dropped next to her.

'Yes, don't worry…I'm a good one.'

'You're a psychic?' Phoebe said leaning forward eagerly.

'Yes, I mostly sense things about people. I can tell what powers each of you have. I can sense other things about people as well. If I focus though I can usually tell a lot about a person.'

Helena glanced at Chris and realised he'd clenched his hands into fists. The sisters couldn't see but she could and wondered why her last comment made him tense like that.

'That's amazing, I have visions and can sometimes get emotions in them but…' Phoebe seemed fascinated with this different aspect of being psychic.

'Never mind that.' Piper said interrupting her sister. 'Projection is probably the rarest and most powerful ability there is.'

'Yes, it is, shall I continue?' Helena paused until Piper nodded. 'As you've noticed our clothing is unusual as is our speech. This is because we are from the mid-fifteenth century.'

Chris gaped at her and across from them the sisters did the same. Helena found their reaction highly amusing. 'How the hell did you get here?' Chris asked.

'A spell. I've had it written for some time. I only had cause to use it today.'

'That's a pretty powerful spell.' Paige said and Helena thought she heard a touch of respect creeping into her voice.

'I'm a pretty powerful witch.' Helena laughed. 'Anyway to get back to my story. I grew up in England, and reading your surface thoughts I can tell I'm about six hundred years in the future, to be honest I wasn't expecting such a jump. Though this must be where I'm supposed to be.'

'What exactly did your spell say?' Phoebe said grabbing a pen and paper.

Helena took a breath.

I call upon the Ancient Powers

Help me now in this darkest hour

Take me to what I hope to find

A safer place in space and time

Grant me this my heart's desire

Save me from his hateful ire

Chris frowned as she finished reciting the spell. 'You wrote that?'

'Yes, why?' Helena looked at him wondering who he was.

'No reason.' Chris shook his head and didn't elaborate.

Helena frowned slightly but continued. 'Anyway, I grew up as part of the courts and eventually I drew the attention of a particular noble. He was charming and handsome. My unusual status meant that although I was part of the courts, I lived in a cloister. I could not marry him, but everyone knew that…I was his.' Helena felt her breath catch at the memories beginning to swamp her. 'The relationship started when I was almost nineteen. After about a year…things changed. He became cruel, abusive, completely different.'

'Couldn't you leave him?' Phoebe seemed more upset than the others and Helena realised she must be picking up her emotions.

'It was a different time. I had to attend court functions almost daily, even if I had refused to be with him, he would have strong armed into staying by his side at court by threatening Micheal.'

Piper leaned forward. 'Is he Micheal's father?'

Helena shuddered at the thought of any part of him being in her son. 'No, Micheal was born before I was with him. A few weeks ago things took a turn for the worse…' Helena paused as she saw Phoebe flinch. Taking a few deep breaths Helena regained control of her emotions. 'He was…abusing me almost every day. Usually in the carriage on the way to court.' Helena saw all four of them flinch and knew that they realised what she really meant. 'Anyway this morning I – he –' Helena broke off unable to continue. The three women immediately got up to comfort her, but surprisingly Chris beat them to it.

Chris put his hand on her shoulder, but Helena felt no need to flinch away from the contact as she had done with everyone except Micheal.

Chris frowned. 'Let's just leave it for now.'

The sisters nodded in agreement but Helena shook her head. 'No I might as well finish. I'd had enough and I used an energy ball on him. Just a low powered one but enough to get him off me. We weren't far from the cloister so I got out of the carriage and ran back. He chased after me and although men aren't allowed in the cloister he followed me inside. I ran into a wall and he grabbed me and kicked me. I threw him off with my telekinesis and then threw my dagger at him, hitting him in the shoulder. I ran for the large library in the cloister. He was raging at me the whole time and I knew I had no choice but to use my spell. I knew it would affect Micheal too, due a spell I had already cast on my son, so as I heard him closing in on me I said it. Just as the spell started to take effect he came around the corner and threw my own dagger at me, I grabbed it before it hit me and then I ended up here.'

Helena finished talking and felt emotionally drained.

Piper had sat on the coffee table in front of her. Now she leant forward a little to put her hand on Helena's knee. Helena flinched but forced herself to stay still. 'I'm sorry for what you went through. It's obvious that you were brought to us, to this time because you needed to be as far away as possible.'

Helena nodded and held back tears at the woman's kindness.

Phoebe who had sat on the sofa next to Helena also patted her knee. This time Helena did flinch away a little making Phoebe and Piper draw back. Phoebe smiled understandingly. 'I'm just wondering why was…he not surprised at your magic?'

Helena had expected this question, but decided to only partly answer for now. 'Everyone knew I had gifts, but my family had cast a spell on me that stopped people from caring about it, the spell made them almost forget about it, it was like…' Helena searched for a way to describe it. 'Almost like a glamour I suppose. I'm not certain how it works.'

Piper nodded. 'Okay well that's enough for now. How about we find you some clean clothes? I think some of my things should fit you. As for Micheal…'

Paige jumped up from the arm of the sofa where she had perched. 'I'll go to the mall and get some stuff for him.' Helena felt her eyes widen when she disappeared in a swirl of blue-ish white lights.

'Is she as white-lighter?'

Beside her Phoebe nodded. 'Half white-lighter, half witch. Why?'

'I've never met one before, heard of them, but never met one.'

'No wonder you have scars.'

Helena flinched again realising Piper must have seen her scars when she looked at her injury. Chris' hand fell away from her as he stood up, and Helena found herself missing the comfort of it. Chris started pacing up and down. Helena resisted skimming his surface thoughts to see what was bothering him. He had secrets, that much she could tell, but she knew it would be better to wait to find them out.

'I wonder why you didn't have a white-lighter. With your amount power, they should have assigned you one.' Chris seemed to be talking to himself but Helena answered him anyway.

'I'm unsure, perhaps I was hidden from them because of the spell on me.'

Phoebe nodded. 'That's possible I suppose, depending on the wording of the spell. What do you know about it?'

'Nothing. I wasn't raised by my family.' Helena didn't want to talk about her family, and it must have come through in her voice because Piper quickly changed the subject.

'Okay, I think a bath would probably be a welcome relief after…' Piper drifted off slightly. 'I'll run a bath for you.' Piper stood up and headed towards the hall before looking back. 'Phoebe you watch the boys. Chris you take Helena to the kitchen and get her a hot drink.' Piper promptly disappeared, clearly expecting her directions to be followed.


CPOV

Chris led a silent Helena into the kitchen. When his mo- when Piper gave orders like that she expected them to be followed. Especially when someone needed taking care of.

'Do you want tea, coffee or hot chocolate?' Chris motioned at one on the chairs and Helena sat down.

'What is hot chocolate?' She looking at him as he put the kettle on.

Chris realised hot chocolate may not have gotten to England yet for her. 'It's brilliant. I'll make that for you.' Chris grabbed a mug and the jar of powder. 'It'll have to be the quick version but it tastes almost as good.'

'What is it exactly?' Helena got up and came over to get a better look.

'It's made from a bean similar to coffee, but sweeter. You add hot water, milk and sugar.'

'Huh, that's a kettle?' Helena pointed at the now bubbling kettle.

Chris chuckled. 'Yeah, it's a little different to what you had I bet.'

'Just slightly…electricity…remarkable.' Chris wondered where she got that term. 'It's in your head.'

Chris blanched and looked at her. She must be reading his mind.

Helena smiled at him. 'Don't worry, I know you have a secret, but I'm not looking for it.' Chris relaxed slightly only to tense as she continued. 'At least, not at the moment.'

'Now see here, if –'

The kettle clicked making Helena jump. 'Is that it done?'

Chris frowned at her change of subject but decided to let it drop for now. 'Yeah, I'll just make it and then show you up to the bathroom.' Chris quickly put together the hot drink.

Holding the mug out to Helena, Chris watched as she took it from him and took a small sip.

Helena's face lit up. 'It's delicious! So sweet.'

Chris smiled despite himself and led her back out of the kitchen.

'Do you think Phoebe would make some for Micheal? He would love it.' Helena asked from behind.

'Um…sure.' Chris made a slight detour towards Phoebe and the boys in the sunroom. 'Phoebe could you make some hot chocolate for Micheal, Helena thinks he'd like it.'

'What's hot chocolate Mama?' Micheal said looking up from the toys.

'It's a lovely drink. You be good for Phoebe while I take a bath, alright?'

Micheal nodded so Chris lead Helena towards the staircase and up to the second floor.

'This house is beautiful.' Helena said as she took in the décor.

'It's been in the family for generations.' Chris said as they came to the bathroom. 'Piper?'

'In here Chris. Almost done.'

Chris pushed the bathroom door open and heard Helena gasp. Piper had taken it upon herself to light loads of candles and turn the light off. 'Wow, you went all out Piper.'

Piper looked up from lighting the last candle. 'Well I thought with everything…it would be nice.'

'Thank you Piper, you are really sweet.' Helena seemed a little choked up again so Chris decided to make his escape.

'Er…I'll be downstairs with Phoebe.' Chris quickly left the bathroom closing the door behind him. Given what had been done to her, Helena would be more comfortable talking to Piper.

Besides girl talk give him the wibblies.


PiPOV

Piper was amused at Chris' swift departure. Clearly he was uncomfortable with girl talk.

Beside her Helena laughed slightly. 'I don't think Chris was very comfortable with the way our conversation was going.'

'My thoughts exactly. Do you need my help to get out of your dress?' Piper looked over the tightly laced bodice of Helena's dress.

'Er…yes but…' Helena drifted off looking uncomfortable.

Piper realised she wasn't liking the idea of being touched. 'I'll try not to touch you too much.'

'Thank you.' Helena whispered. 'I'm sorry I do trust you but –'

Piper cut her off. 'It's okay I understand. If I unlace you will you mange then?' When Helena nodded silently and put down her mug Piper moved behind her and started unlacing the corset. Helena was tense the whole time and Piper wondered how many different, awful things had been done to her.

She and her sisters had been through a lot, but they'd always had each other. It seemed as though the only person Helena had was her son.

Piper finished undoing the laces and stepped away. As soon as she did Helena relaxed and started to undress with her back to Piper. After all the layers were off Piper held out a robe to Helena but not before see had seen the full extent of her scars. Her whole back was covered in lash marks as well as what looked like scars from knife wounds on her upper arms. The worse thing though was the sight of the fresh bruises between her thighs.

Piper was unable to hold back her scowl. 'If that – that asshole were here I'd take great pleasure in blasting him into hell.'

'It's no use dwelling on what we cannot change. I made choices – some good, some bad. They all led me here.' Helena turned to look at Piper when she was covered. 'I have no regrets.'

Piper was surprised at her positive attitude. 'That's an unusual response to what you've been through.'

'Yes, but I have Micheal, he is enough.'

Piper nodded in understanding. With everything that had happened with Leo…she was just grateful for his sisters and Wyatt. 'I'll let you have your bath. When you're ready just shout me and I'll help you with the modern clothes.' Piper turned to leave but Helena's voice stopped her.

'Wait, can you keep this safe for me?'

Piper turned back to see Helena taking a small velvet bag from the skirt of her dress. 'What is it?' Piper asked as she took the bag.

'I'll show you later. I just need it safe for now.'

Piper nodded and left with the bag. When she shook it, it made a sort of chinking sound.

Despite her curiosity Piper resisted the urge to look inside and made her way back downstairs.


PaPOV (Paige)

Paige orbed back to the manor clutching her shopping bags. 'Hellooo? People where are you?'

'In here Paige.'

Paige headed towards Piper's voice in the sunroom. As she rounded the corner she saw everyone except Helena playing with the two boys.

Wyatt was giggling hysterically at something. 'Gen, gen, gen!'

Paige smiled at her nephew's happiness as she put the bags down. 'What's got you going little man?'

Phoebe looked up. 'Micheal used his shield to bounce Wuvey up and down.'

'Oh that would do it.' Paige sat next to Chris on the sofa. 'Well I got some new clothes for Micheal, I also picked up a few sets of underwear for Helena. I had to guess the size obviously.'

'Well let's get him changed then.' Phoebe said with excitement.

A few minutes later they had tried all the clothes on Micheal and he had picked a t-shirt with a dog on and some jeans to wear.

Paige couldn't help but smile at how cute he was. Micheal would definitely grow up to be a heart breaker.

Piper straightened his Micheal's t-shirt. 'You look very handsome, wait until your Mommy sees you.'

Micheal grinned at the thought of his Mom.

'Piper? I've finished.' Helena called from upstairs.

As Piper left taking the bag of underwear Paige held out, Paige looked at Phoebe who explained.

'Piper insisted she have nice, relaxing bath.' Phoebe hesitated and glanced at Micheal before continuing in a whisper. 'Piper saw more scars and some fresh bruises.'

Paige frowned at the new info. If she ever met that guy she would orb his…orbs somewhere toasty.


HPOV

Helena hovered at the top of the stairs as she waited for Piper to come up.

When the older woman appeared she smiled at Helena. 'Feel better?'

Helena nodded and smiled. 'Yes much, thank you. I blew out the candles.'

'You didn't have to do that, I would have done it.' Piper turned and led her into what must be her bedroom. 'Now you sit on the bed and I'll grab a few things for you to look at.'

Helena did as she asked and looked around the room curiously. There were pictures on the wall that had amazing detail to them. The pictures were of Piper, her sisters and her son. There were a few of Wyatt with a blond haired man that must be his father, which made Helena wonder where he was.

Piper came back out of the closet – as Helena saw in her mind – holding a bundle of clothing. 'Okay what colours do you like the look of?' Piper smiled at her.

Helena looked at the jumble of clothing. 'Er…' Helena saw a nice piece of purple fabric and pulled it from the pile. 'This is nice.'

Piper grinned and took it from her. Before grabbing something from the pile as well. 'These jeans go with that top. Paige picked up some underwear while she was out.' Piper frowned and grabbed the bag she had brought upstairs. 'See this is a bra it goes around your…breasts and fastens at the back. The knickers just pull on.'

Piper handed her the skimpy items and Helena looked at them. They were very small items. Helena thought of the many layers of under garments she had left in the bathroom. 'This is all you wear underneath your clothing?'

Piper smiled. 'I know they're small but it's all you really need. Put them on and then I'll show you what to do with the outer parts.'

Piper gestured at the closet and Helena was grateful to be able to change without Piper looking at her. Although she knew Piper wouldn't hurt her, part of her subconscious shuddered at the thought of being so exposed in front of her.

Helena took the robe off and put the underwear on, struggling briefly with the…bra. She had to admit though…it was a lot easier to do herself and more comfortable as well. Helena picked up the discarded robe, but didn't put it on, just held it over the front of her.

'I'm done Piper.' Helena called out, trying to keep her nerves calm.

Piper came into the closet smiling. 'Okay so jeans first. They're just like a man's pants. So they just pull on.'

Helena nodded and took the…jeans. She hesitated briefly but then just dropped the robe. The jeans pulled on easy enough and fitted snugly around her legs.

Piper grinned and held out the purple garment to her. 'These are the sleeves bits and obviously the bit between is for your head.

Helena nodded and pulled it on and the top fell to about mid-thigh. The long sleeves came down to her wrists and the neckline had a small V shape to it.

'You look lovely Helena.' Piper smiled at her.

'Really? It suits me?' Helena didn't want to look like an idiot, especially in front of Chris. Helena frowned. Where had that thought come from?

'If you want to see there's a mirror in the corner of my room.'

Helena moved past Piper to look in the tall mirror. She was surprised at how well the clothes suited her. It was strange to be wearing so little but for some reason she felt more…secure in these clothes. Perhaps because trousers were harder to get off quickly.

Helena shook away the morose thoughts and turned to smile at Piper. 'I look great, thank you!'

'I'm glad I could help.' Piper said with a smile. 'Now how about I fix your hair?'

Helena glanced at her wet hair in the mirror. 'Sure, I'd love that.' She sat in the chair Piper put in the middle of the floor.

'Excellent. You have amazingly long hair. Have you never cut it or something?'

'No, I just trim it every so often.' Helena swept her waist length hair over the back of the chair and let Piper have at it.


CPOV

Chris sat on the sofa watching in fascination as Micheal held a conversation with Wyatt. Paige gone in the kitchen to make some tea and Phoebe was taking a call from work, trying to avoid having to go in.

'You want the blue one?' Micheal said holding a blue car out to Wyatt.

Wyatt smiled and took the chunky, oddly proportioned car.

'You're welcome.' Micheal picked up a red car.

Chris knew he was staring at the three year old, but his ability was something he'd never heard of. In the future Wyatt had made a point of 'collecting' unusual powers. He had scores of demon and evil witches working for him, but those with unusual powers were put in a more elite group. Chris knew some powers were unique to certain families, so perhaps Wyatt had just never found any of Helena's family.

Wyatt suddenly gave an excited squeal and set off crawling towards the hallway.

Chris looked up and felt his jaw drop.

Piper was coming over to pick up Wyatt, but Chris was looking at Helena.

She was wearing a pair of Piper's jeans and one of her long tops. Her hair though was the biggest change. Part of it was clipped back but most of it fell in soft, brown waves to her waist. Her face was now washed free of the heavy makeup she had on before, now there was barely any on her face, but she looked…amazing.

'Chris what the hell kind of programme are you watching with those kids in there?' Phoebe came storming from the front room ready to lay into him apparently.

Chris shook himself and tried to force his emotions back under control. Apparently Phoebe had felt his…lust…for Helena. It was quite disturbing.

Phoebe noticed that Helena was what he had been staring at and was grinning at him. 'Chris are you telling me you actually have feelings?' Phoebe a very annoying smirk on her face.

Piper had come over to the both of them. 'Well? What do you think? Doesn't she look great?'

Phoebe nodded enthusiastically. 'You look stunning Helena.' Phoebe turned a knowing smile on Chris. 'What do you think Chris?'

Chris actually felt his mind stutter. He didn't know that was possible. 'I – uh –you look beautiful.' Chris finished in a barely audible mutter and cringed as he felt himself blush. Blush of all things. If Wyatt could see him now he'd laugh his ass off. Just then little Wyatt chose that moment to giggle at something. Talk about irony.

Micheal abandoned the toys and ran to hug his Mom. 'Mama, you look nice.'

'Oh thank you sweetheart. You look very handsome in those clothes.'

'Paige brought them for me, and I've been playing with Wyatt. He's been really nice and shared his toys me and showed me how to play with them.'

Chris was surprised as how fast Micheal was talking and then remembered that Paige had also given him a lolly. Candy rush, children's equivalent to coffee.

'Well that was nice of him wasn't it?' Helena looked over at Wyatt. 'Hello Wyatt, what a gorgeous boy you are.'

Micheal giggled. 'Mama he wants a cuddle from you.'

Chris looked at Wyatt surprised at the announcement. Piper however just handed him over after Helena had put Micheal down.

'Hello buddy. I remember when Micheal was the same size as you are.'

'Was I that small Mama?'

Helena's laugh triggered another surge of emotions, but as much a Chris wished he could make an escape he still needed more info on Helena. Chris saw Phoebe glance at him again and quickly changed the subject.

'Okay so uh – what's with the bag you gave Piper?'

'Oh yeah, might as well do that now.' Helena handed Wyatt back to Piper and to Chris' dismay, came and sat next to him on the sofa. She grabbed the velvet bag from the table and opened it.

'This is the dagger I threw at…him.' Helena held up a small dagger that had dried blood on the blade.

'May I?' Phoebe held out her hand.

'Sure, you won't get a premonition from it though.' Helena smiled as Phoebe cringe guiltily. 'I made it using my powers and I made it so it couldn't be tracked in anyway. That includes premonitions.'

'Oh well okay then.' Phoebe still looked over the dagger.

'So back to the bag, I think it might just be best to show you.'

Helena tipped the bag out and Chris felt his jaw drop again, this time though Piper and Phoebe copied him.

Paige walked in from the kitchen. 'Holy cow! Are those real?!'

Chris didn't blame Paige for her reaction. On the table were dozens of diamonds, rubies and emeralds.

Helena was quietly laughing. 'Yes they are quite real.' She carried on talking as she slowly gathered the gems back into the bag. 'It took the past three months for me to make them using my powers, it's not as easy as you would think. It takes a lot of energy.'

When the gems were out the way, Paige put the tray with hot drinks down. 'I'll bet, do know how much pressure is needed for diamonds to be made?'

Piper had something else on her mind though. 'Why are you showing us them?'

'Because I'm going to be here for the rest of my life and I need your help to start that life.'

Chris looked at Helena and saw she was looking at him.

'Piper what are you so worried about?' Phoebe frowned at her sister.

'Phoebe would you stop doing that! It highly annoying.'

'I second that.' Paige raised her hand.

'Well I can't help it. It's just…on all the time.'

Helena looked away from Chris much to his relief. 'Have you not been able to find an empath blocking potion?'

'A what?'

Helena smiled as all three sisters spoke at the same time. 'An empath blocking potion. When you take it, it stops empaths from reading your emotions.'

Piper swiveled towards Chris. 'Chris, did you know about this potion?'

Uh great, now they yell at him not telling them about it. Before he could open his mouth to defend himself though, Helena came to his defence.

'Even if he did know about it. The potion ingredients are almost impossible to get.' Helena frowned. 'Not to mention dangerous to get.'

Chris was relieved when this made Piper's anger fade. 'I did know about it but I haven't had any luck finding someone that can make it.'

'Well that's just great, isn't?' Paige said with a sigh. 'In the meantime, Miss Butinsky over there will be spying on our emotions.'

'Paige, you know I can't control it.'

'Oh no I know that, you can control yourself though.'

Chris could see a full blown argument coming. 'Uh guys I…'

'Paige I can't –'

Phoebe broke off as a tiny energy ball struck both her and Paige. Chris looked at Helena who just shrugged.

'What was that for?' Paige asked Helena rubbing her arm.

'It was only a spark. Anyway I was trying to say that I can put a block on you if you want.'

Chris stared at her. 'How can you do that?'

Helena looked at him again with those startling blue eyes. 'With my projection. I simply…will the barrier into them. It has the exact same effect.'

'Huh, I didn't know that was possible.' Though with projection being as rare as it was, not a lot was known about it's capabilities.

'Well get on with it then.' Paige said impatiently gesturing at Helena.

Chris watched Helena as she stood up gracefully and went over to Paige. 'Close your eyes, and…try to be quiet.'

Chris felt his mouth twitch at Helena's quick grasp of Paige's talkative personality.

Helena put her fingers over Paige's temples and stood quietly for a few minutes. Then she stood back and looked at Phoebe. 'Well?'

Phoebe looked at Paige and focused on her before bursting into a smile. 'Nothing, absolutely nothing!' Phoebe bounced a little with happiness.

Helena just smiled and moved to Piper not bothering, or needing, to ask her to keep quiet.

When she finished she immediately came over to Chris, making his nerves suddenly rear again.

Helena seemed to sense it as she whispered quietly to him. 'Relax Chris, I don't bite…hard.'

Chris chuckled and closed his eyes. Then Helena was touching his temples and after a couple of seconds he felt her presence in his mind. Tensing slightly Chris felt her chuckle before she whispered in his head.

'Don't worry so much. I not looking at what is here, just adding something.'

Chris forced himself to relax, and then it was done.

When Helena moved away Chris opened his eyes. She smiled slightly at him before turning away.

'There's one…last thing.' Helena stopped and glanced at the boys playing. 'Let's go in the other room.' She promptly turned and went into the front room. Leaving Chris and the sisters to follow.

In the living room Chris decided to stand near the fireplace rather than sit, unfortunately Helena stood next to him. Although she paced up and down a little, clearly nervous.

When the sisters were sat down Helena cleared her throat. 'I need to…tell you about…him.'

Chris looked at her in surprise. Piper was more verbal than him though. 'You don't have to do that Helena, there's no need.'

'There is.' Helena's voice was suddenly harsh. Making them all look at her in surprise. 'Sorry, but you need to know.' Helena took a deep breath. 'His name is…Kiernan Williamson. And he's a demon.'

Chris gaped at her. 'A demon? You were –' Chris broke off as Helena hugged herself.

Phoebe gave a sad smile. 'You didn't know at first, did you.' It wasn't a question.

'No. Like I said, he was perfect, but then I guess his…darker urges needed an outlet.' Helena started pacing again.

'Do you think he'll be in our Book of Shadows?' Paige said looking at Piper.

'He won't be.' Helena said briefly.

Chris had backed out of her way to let her pace, but now stepped in her path and took hold of her arms.

'First – that's making me dizzy.' Chris saw the corner of her mouth twitch. 'Second – why won't he be in the Book?'

'He tricked me into protecting him against being written about.' Helena looked away from him, but not before he saw the guilt in her eyes.

'Demons are good at that.' Phoebe said quietly. 'Can't you undo it?'

Helena shook her head. 'No, I was sort of drugged when I did it, so I can't remember exactly how I did it. So I don't know how to undo it.'

'What do you mean drugged?' Paige said from her chair.

'Sometimes Kiernan would give me drugs. Some made me compliant, some made me…want him. Most of the time though the drugs would paralyse me, but make me hyper aware of everything…ow!'

Chris realised he had squeezed Helena's arms in anger. 'Sorry I –' He quickly let go of her.

'It's fine, you didn't mean to.' Helena smiled at him reassuringly.

Chris frowned at his lack of control. Since Helena turned up he was all over the place.

'Getting back to the demon.' Paige said. 'What powers does he have?'

'He's resistant to witches powers unfortunately, not immune though. He's upper level and can throw fireballs.'

'Lovely.' Piper said sitting down. 'What are the chances of him being still alive?'

'Pretty good. He's powerful, dangerous and even in my time he had a reputation.'

Chris scowled, he hated demons with reputations. They either had a lot of demonic followers, which made the fight long and hard, or they were loners that had exceptionally high skills. He preferred lots of demons.

He looked back at Helena. 'So which is he a loner or 'lord'?'

Helena laughed. 'Definitely a lord. There's no way he be hiding in some pit somewhere.' Helena laughed again apparently amused at that idea.

'So no lanky greasy hair then?' Chris said in fake shock. He'd never understood why Wyatt had gone for that look when he was definitely in the lord category.

Helena grinned. 'I know, shocking. Why give up the chance for such a great look?


PiPOV

Piper felt her jaw drop as Chris burst out laughing and Helena quickly joined him.

Piper turned to look at her sisters and saw that they were just as astonished as she was. The most Chris had ever done in the laughing department was a sardonic chuckle. No he was giving out a full belly laugh.

Helena was definitely something special if she could make their surly, neurotic white-lighter so…carefree.

Piper cleared her throat to get their attention. 'So what do you mean loner or lord?'

Helena stopped laughing but grinned. 'Apparently, Chris and I use the same terms for powerful demons. Loners are the ones that hide away, honing their skills to extremely high levels.'

Chris nodded and jumped in. 'Then there's lords who are still very powerful, but have a lot of followers.'

Piper nodded, wondering at the odds that these two would meet and have such similar personalities. They definitely had the same sense of humour, that's for sure. Maybe Helena would draw Chris out of his shell and they could get some more information on the future.

'Would a potion work on him?' Paige asked the still smiling woman.

'I'm not sure, after all this time it would have to be unbelievably powerful.'

Paige looked thoughtful for a moment. 'Perhaps if I modified the trio potions I made for Cole…'

'Adding flesh to them would help.' Piper said. Helena had said he was an upper level demon. Vanquishing potions for them usually required flesh. Though that meant…Piper looked back at Helena who had gone white. 'Helena I –'

'It's okay Piper.' Helena seemed to shrink upon herself despite her words. 'I – I knew I would have to face him eventually. I thought it would be later though.' Helena gave nervous, false laugh and began to wring her hands.

Chris frowned. 'We wouldn't know where to start looking. The underworld is enormous.'

Paige got a sheepish look on her face and raised her hand slightly. 'I have a really bad idea.'

Piper frowned, when Paige got that look something usually exploded or went missing or – something.

'What is it?' Chris said impatiently.

'Er…well Helena could sort of…announce her return…' Paige let her sentence drift off.

'Let me get this straight.' Phoebe said with a frown. 'You want her to go and announce to Kiernan that she's alive?'

'I said it was a bad idea.' Paige said defensively and crossed her arms.

'It's a good idea.'

Piper wondered if Helena had an unknown head injury. Apparently Chris thought the same thing.

'Are you nuts?'

'Chris think about it. It would take too long to search him out. If I go down and make some noise…it's much quicker.'

Piper was starting to like the idea even less. 'I'm thinking this isn't a good idea. Once Kiernan knows you're alive, he'll come straight after you. Follow you – here.'

Phoebe shifted excitedly in her seat. 'So we set a trap, it wouldn't be the first time. Slice him up, add the flesh to the potion and get rid of him.'

'Even so Pheebs, a lot can go wrong.' Like them all dying.


HPOV

Helena sat on the sofa fiddling with the hem of her top. Piper was still a little unsure of the plan, she was worried about things going wrong. 'What about Wyatt's father, could he help?'

Before she spoke Phoebe, Paige and Chris had been trying to convince Piper to agree. Now the room went quiet.

Paige looked uncomfortable. 'He could watch the boys. Then you could join us Piper.'

Piper hesitated. 'I suppose so. I can trust him Wyatt at least.' Piper sighed and rubbed her eyes. 'Leo!'

Helena watched as Piper yelled at the ceiling. A few moments later the man Helena had seen in the pictures orbed in.

'Piper, you need something?' The man – Leo, looked around and smiled at Piper and her sisters, but scowled at Chris. He eyes rested briefly on her before going back to Piper.

'Yeah, uh…Helena why don't you, Paige and Chris go start the potions while Phoebe and I catch Leo up?'

Helena nodded, relieved that she wasn't required to stay in what seemed like a tense situation. 'Sure no problem.' Helena left the front room and headed upstairs. Unfortunately her curiosity was rearing its head. 'So, is that Piper's husband?' Helena looked at Paige who was leading the way.

'Yes, actually no…well sorta. It's a long story. They're separated.'

Helena wondered if all their stories were as complicated. Chances are that they were.

Helena stepped into the attic when Paige opened the door. 'We do most of our spell work up here since the Book's kept here.'

Helena could feel the magic in the room and nodded. 'I can feel it.' Helena's eyes were drawn to the stand that held the Book. 'May I?' When Paige nodded Helena slowly approached the Book of Shadows. On the cover was the triquetra. In her time it was a symbol of sisterhood, so it made sense that it was the symbol of the Power of Three. Helena put her hand on the Book and could practically feel the power humming inside it.

'Hello there. I mean them no harm.' In her head Helena could sense the Book's acceptance of her and wondered if the others felt it or if her psychic abilities did it. 'Can you feel the Book in your head when you touch it?' Chris and Paige looked astonished. 'I take that as a no, must be my psychic abilities then.'

'You feel the Book? How?' Paige came over and stroked the Book as though trying to feel it herself.

'It almost has its own personality, I guess over the years the magic inside gained a sort of...'self' for lack of a better word.' Helena stopped and looked at Paige. 'Has the Book never done anything itself?'

'Yeah sure, but the flipping pages were our family guiding us.'

'It might have been the Book sometimes, and…' Helena stopped and tried to get a better read of the Book. 'It's got a mischievous streak, I'm guessing it moves the entries on the pages around as well.'

Paige looked shocked. 'Piper was right! She's always said she thought the Book pages shifted places.'

Helena grinned. 'I think she was right.' Helena stepped away from the Book. 'Do you remember the potion ingredients?'

Paige nodded. 'I only used it a year ago.' Paige went over to the table that had various potions ingredients and equipment on. 'I need grab a couple of things from the kitchen. I'll be back in moment.'

Helena sat down on an old sofa and looked up when Chris walked over to the Book and touched it. 'Who are you Chris?'

Chris turned sharply at her comment. The surprise on his face though was quickly masked. 'What do you mean? I'm Chris.'

Helena rolled her eyes. 'Nice try. I've seen the way the sisters are around you. They trust you, but there's an edge to the trust, a shakiness. I get that they haven't known you long, but you…' Helena stood up again and walked back over to the Book. '…you however, seem to know how to work around their reluctance and how to motivate them as well.' Helena thought she saw a hint of apprehension in Chris's eyes. 'The biggest…give-aways though are that Book recognizes you…' Helena broke off as Chris quickly pulled his hand from the Book. '…as family, and you look a lot like Piper.'

Even though she was actively not looking at his mind. Helena still felt the mild panic from Chris.

'Now I get how they don't know about the Book, but how the hell have they not noticed the resemblance?'

'I guess because they aren't looking for it.' Chris croaked slightly. 'Plus I didn't exactly announce it.' He looked up at her finally. 'How did you figure it out? Just from the Book?'

Helena smiled. 'Actually, the first time I saw you I thought you might be Piper's younger brother. But the sisters' reaction to your comment about your Mom tossed that theory aside.'

'You are way too observant.' Chris said with a wry chuckle.

Helena was glad he wasn't angry that she's mostly figured him out. 'So how are you related to them Chris? You have a familiarity with them that says it's a close relationship.'

Chris sighed and opened his mouth…but then Paige walked back in a he slammed it shut again.

'Okay dokay, I got what I needed.' Paige put the ingredients on the table and looked at them. 'We can each work on a potion, I'll walk you through the recipes.'

Helena nodded and when Paige looked away, Helena turned back to Chris.

'I tell you later if we survive.' Chris said as he walked around her towards Paige.

Helena swatted the back of his head lightly. 'Now I know you meant when. When we survive. Honestly you really are surly and neurotic.'

'Who said that?' Chris said in surprise.

'Er Chris…' said Paige with a smile, '…we all do. Talk about having a stick up your –'

'Hey! I'm not that bad.' Chris said defensively.

Paige just snorted.

Helena grinned and just started making the potion as Paige directed her.


A short while later they were just finishing the potions when Piper and Phoebe came in with the boys and Leo.

Piper handed Wyatt over to Leo and came over. 'Are they done?'

Paige nodded. 'Yep, We've put them in jars so it's easier to add the flesh quickly.' She handed Piper one of the potion jars and went over to Phoebe to hand her another. Her own was in her hand.

Helena felt her stomach start to clench painfully.

Piper gave grim smile. 'Well I guess it's time to get started then.'

Leo stepped forward a little. 'I still don't think we'll need the crystals up here, not with me here.'

Helena frowned and briefly scanned Piper and Phoebe's minds. The better part of their conversation with Leo had been getting him to trust her and accept the plan.

Helena walked over to Leo frowning. 'Okay Leo, I know that despite Piper and Phoebe telling you about my Vow, you still don't trust me. So let me put this straight.' Helena stopped to make sure he was listening. 'If you do not follow this plan to the letter, I will personally make your existence a living hell. Chances are that my presence has already been Seen by seers and mystics. If Kiernan finds out about me he will immediately attack and we will be at a disadvantage.'

Leo gave her a look that matched the way he had looked at Chris. 'You can't talk to me like that. I'm an Elder and there are rules you have to follow.'

Helena bit back her first response. It wouldn't do to start swearing in front of the boys. 'I will not allow that man anywhere near my son. So you will do as you're told. Also my Vow was to not harm the Halliwell family.'

When Leo's eyes widened slightly Helena knew he understood her implication. Leo reluctantly nodded, put Wyatt down in the playpen and started to place the crystals around the room.

Helena turned away a saw Chris trying to hide a smug smile. Apparently he liked her dressing down of Leo. 'Okay, let's get this show on the road.' Helena realised she had picked up a lot of modern phrase the others used.

Piper came over to her and put a hand on her folded arms. 'Are you sure you're ready for this? It was all just this morning for you.'

Helena realised her stomach was still doing somersaults. 'No I'm not ready, but I still have to do this.'

Helena turned and went to crouch next Micheal. Phoebe stepped away from him to give them privacy. 'Micheal. You stay here with Wyatt and his Daddy. You make sure to do what Leo says. If anything bad comes you have to use your powers to protect you and Wyatt.'

'Mama are you going to find him?' Micheal looked at the floor as he said this.

Helena realised he must have overheard enough to put it together. 'Micheal look at me darling.' Micheal looked up at her. 'I have to protect you. Don't worry I will come back to you.'

Micheal lunged into her arms and hugged her tightly. 'I love you Mama.'

'I love you too sweetheart.' Helena took Micheal over to the playpen and put him next to Wyatt.

Turning back to the others Helena saw them waiting near the door. 'Okay let's go.'

As they left the attic, Leo put the last crystal in place at the door, completing the protection.

Downstairs in the front room Helena stood next to Chris and waited. She could feel Piper's need to go over things again.

'Okay, so you two will go to the underworld and start 'shouting' as Paige put it.' Piper from Chris and Helena to her sisters. 'And we will be waiting for them to come, hopefully,' Piper scrunched her face up, 'Kiernan won't be far behind.'

Helena nodded and looked at Chris. 'Let's go Chris.' Helena held her hand out to him and Chris took it. 'Lead the way.' Helena heard her voice shake a little but ignored it.

'See you soon.' Chris said to the sisters before orbing them out.


CPOV

Chris looked around the cavern they were stood in. It was much like the rest of the underworld, the demons had no sense of style.

Chris looked at Helena and saw the fear in her eyes. 'You alright?'

Helena gave him a weak smile. 'Heh, not really, but I think destroying some demons might help.'

Chris nodded and hoped she could manage. 'Let's go. Send out your pulse.'

Helena closed her eyes and after a couple of seconds Chris felt a pulse of magic burst out from her. It would attract any nearby demon. The plan was to try and just injure some them. That way they could go spreading Helena's presence around. Since Chris was already known down here that would give Kiernan a place to come looking for her.

Helena opened her eyes and looked at him, it seemed as though she was searching in his eyes for something. Chris didn't know what she was looking for, but he hoped she found it.

'Don't worry Helena, we can do this together.' Chris got into position back to back with her. He jumped slightly when Helena's hand touched his. Smiling Chris squeezed it briefly and then let go as the first demons shimmered in.

Chris immediately went to work throwing the demons around. Deflecting fireballs at them and dodging attacks.

He kept an eye on Helena, but it seemed that despite growing up in a cloister she had no qualms about attacking the demons. Helena used her telekinesis the same way he did but it looked as she also used it to enhance he movement. In one leap she went from one side of the cavern to the other. The most remarkable thing though, was the way she released an almost constant stream of energy balls.

Chris ducked below another energy ball to throw the demon away, impaling him on a stalagmite. Chris backed up against Helena who nudged him to get his attention.

'Chris, that short, black skinned demon knows Kiernan. Leave him 'til last.'

Chris nodded and for the next couple of minutes they continued to fight. Chris was amazed at the way Helena moved despite her injured shoulder.

'Chris look out!' Chris spun around at Helena warning but the energy ball still hit his shoulder before he could deflect it. Chris staggered but managed to stay upright. Thankfully there were only two demons left. Helena quickly dispatched one, which only left short and black.

The demon seemed to realise, finally, that he couldn't win and made to leave.

'Ah, ah, ah.' Helena said grabbing him with her telekinesis. 'It's rude to leave in the middle of a party.' Helena kept the demon hovering and looked over to him. 'You okay Chris?'

'Yeah, I think so.' Chris looked down at his shoulder. 'It was just a glancing hit. I'm fine.'

Helena nodded and turned back to the demon who was scowling at her.

'Let me go witch!'

'Not just yet.' Helena twisted the demon around until he hung upside down in front of her. 'Let's have a chat. I know you work for Kiernan. I'm…looking for him.'

The demon laughed. 'I think you've had a hit to the head, witch. Nobody looks for Kiernan unless they have death wish.'

Chris stepped forward. 'Perhaps we do, then again, we did just kill all your friends.'

The demon considered this silently.

Helena spun him upright again and walked around him slowly as she talked. 'Kiernan and I have history, some would say a long history. I want you to take him a message. So listen up. Tell him Helena says hello.' Helena stopped in front of the demon. 'Tell him what I've done here, tell him who I was with and tell him it's time to pay.'

Chris watched a Helena put her fingers on the demons temples briefly before stepping back again.

'I've put a curse on you, if you don't give Kiernan my message within two hours you will spend the rest of your existence writhing in agony.'

Helena came and stood next to Chris, and Chris took her hand before looking at the demon. 'Better hurry.'

As Helena threw the demon across the across the cavern, Chris orbed them back to the manor.


HPOV

Helena paced up and down in the sunroom. Unable to stand still from the twisted knot of fear and doubt, Helena couldn't sit like the sisters were doing. Chris was perched on the end of the sofa nearest to her, but didn't stop her from pacing this time.

'It's been half an hour!' Helena huffed, the stupid short demon was taking too long.

'Maybe short and black wasn't motivated enough despite your curse.' Chris said watching her as she paced. Piper had bandaged up his wound as well, so now they matched.

'I didn't really put that curse on him.'

Paige looked confused. 'You didn't? Why? It seems like a good idea.'

Helena shrugged but kept walking. 'I didn't put that curse on him. At the end of the two hours he'll explode regardless of whether he delivered the message or not.'

Phoebe laughed and looked at Piper. 'She's got your temper Piper.'

'Hey! I'm not that bad.'

Paige snorted. 'Last time I spilled a potion, you threatened to blow me up if I didn't clean it.'

Helena paused briefly as she took in that assessment of Piper. She glanced at Chris but he wasn't giving anything away.

'She gets that from Grams.' Phoebe said with a laugh.

'Well, well, well.'

Helena felt her blood freeze at the sardonic, smug voice. She slowly turned and saw Kiernan stood near the staircase. He was dressed in an immaculate, expensive suit

Chris came and stood next to her. 'You can do this Helena.' He whispered in her ear.

Remarkable it gave her the strength to slowly walk towards Kiernan. She stopped on the opposite side of the room from him. Chris stood to her left and the sisters were to the right.

'I must say Helena, I am…surprised.' Kiernan looked her up and down in a possessive way.

Beside her Chris took her hand and squeezed it. Helena spoke to Kiernan and tried to keep her voice steady. 'Kiernan, I must say, I'm kinda disappointed.'

Kiernan's eyes narrowed as he saw Helena holding Chris' hand. It seemed six hundred years hadn't reduced his jealous streak. 'In what way are you disappointed?'

Helena couldn't resist goading him, after all he'd done to her, he wasn't going to get off lightly. 'In what way are you surprised?'

Kiernan didn't look pleased at her word games. 'Very well, my dear, I'll play. I'm surprised you're alive, I'm surprised you had the nerve to defy me and I'm surprised you had the nerve to…summon me.'

Helena felt her anger building at the familiar way he addressed her. 'Well I'm disappointed that you showed up.'

Kiernan scowled at her. 'Why is that disappointing?'

'I was kinda looking forward to hunting you down.' Helena said coldly. Helena saw the sisters stance subtly change as they got ready to defend themselves.

Kiernan scowled at her again. Looking over the sisters he decided to try them. 'The infamous Charmed ones, I expected more from such apparently intimidating…women.'

Paige smiled sweetly at him. 'Well these women have killed as many demons as years you've been alive.' She looked at Piper. 'Wow we're such under achievers aren't we.'

'I'll say.' Piper said also with a smile. 'Must be our hormones getting in the way.'

Phoebe copied her sisters' attitude. 'Honestly, maybe we should have stayed in the kitchen.'

Kiernan looked furious at their brazen attitude, he thought woman were beneath men. Only good for one thing. Helena doubted he had any female demons in his ranks.

Kiernan turned to Chris, his face relaxing slightly. 'I was surprised too, to hear that you were with him. After all what kind of man would take a leftover whore?'

Helena grabbed Chris as he made a lunge for Kiernan, who was laughing at Chris' response.

Helena turned Chris to face her and whispered almost silently to him. 'I'll deal with him.'

When Chris gave a brief nod and stepped back Helena turned to Kiernan. She sashayed towards him slowly. 'I'm also disappointed that you don't seem to have missed me very much.'

Helena saw Kiernan's eyes flick over her chest and saw the lust raise in his eyes. Getting up to she stroked the side of his face, fighting down a wave of nausea. 'It's a shame really…'

'What is?' Kiernan was now completely focused on her.

Helena put one hand to his neck and played with a lock of his hair. Her other hand slowly moved to the back of her jeans to grab her dagger. 'It's a shame to when scars ruin a good face.'

As surprise flickered in his eyes Helena quickly sliced his cheek with her dagger. She threw the piece of flesh and the dagger to Chris and then focused on Kiernan. She knew the others would have retreated to finish the potions.

'You bitch!' Kiernan pressed and hand briefly to his face. He wasn't bleeding much but the new spell she'd added to the dagger made sure that it hurt. A lot. 'I'll kill you for that whore.'

'Afraid of a little love bite Kiernan?' Helena danced backward as he threw a fireball at her. Helena responded with her own energy balls.

For the next few minutes Helena duelled with him exchanging attacks. She had managed to get a couple of glancing hits to him, but Kiernan hadn't managed to get a single hit on her. He was getting more and more furious, which was making him rash, but Helena knew it was also adding to the power of his attacks. Kiernan only had fireballs, but the angrier he got the more powerful his attacks became.

A sudden noise caught Helena's attention and she briefly looked away before realising her mistake. Helena looked back in time to jump away from the fireball. Instead of hitting her stomach, it hit her thigh instead.

'Aagh!' Helena fell to the floor in agony. Oh yeah, he was definitely pissed.

'Helena!' Chris ran over to her, forgetting about Kiernan.

As Chris knelt next to her Helena saw through her haze of pain the Kiernan was about to throw a fireball as Chris' back.

'No!' Helena thrust her arm out and threw Kiernan backwards through the banister on the stairs. Helena looked for Piper. The woman was stood nearby putting the lid on her potion jar. 'Now Piper!'

The Charmed Ones threw their potions in the right order at Kiernan. Helena watched with immense satisfaction as Kiernan howled in pain at the hit of each potion. Finally a whirlwind gathered around him, and with a sudden blast that knocked pictures off the walls, Kiernan was gone.

Helena let Chris help her into a sitting position. Though it was more of a leaning position as Chris was supporting her against him.

'That was a bad hit you took.' Chris said looking at her leg.

Helena ignored that and scowled at him. 'Never mind that.' Helena reached up and hit him across the back of the head again.

'Oww! What the hell?!'

'That was for being a moron and nearly letting him blow a hole through you with a fireball! Honestly you may as well have just laid there!'

Chris all but growled at her. 'I was trying to help you!'

'Yeah well next time keep your eye on the enemy at the same time!' Helena reached up to swat him again but he grabbed her hand instead.

'Well you showed him, didn't you?' Chris said in a calmer voice. 'He's gone now.'

Helena blinked at Chris and realised he was right. Kiernan was… 'He's gone. He's actually…gone.' Helena whispered quietly. Suddenly she burst into tears. After everything, he was finally out of her life. Helena clung to Chris as though he was a life line and sobbed her heart out.


CPOV

Chris sat next to Piper's bed. It was two o'clock in the morning and he was keeping an eye on Helena. After she had cried her pain out last night. He had carried her up here and the sisters had undressed her and seen to her wound while Chris had waited outside the room. Helena had explained why the fireball had been so bad. Leo had partially healed her, but the spell that her family had put on her, had stopped him from healing her completely. Helena had fallen asleep only after staying awake long enough to assure Micheal she was fine.

After Leo had left, they had taken turns watching Helena or the boys. Everyone else was asleep now as Chris had offered to take the night shift, so to speak.

'Chris?'

Chris looked down at the bed to see that Helena had woken up while he was deep in thought. 'Helena, how do you feel?'

Helena winced as she shifted. 'Better, but not too good.'

'Yeah I bet. You had a fisted sized chunk out of your leg.' Chris was scowled as he realised that he was grateful to Leo for healing her even partially.

'What are you scowling for now? Do you need another swat?' Helena raised her hand threateningly.

Chris laughed quietly and put her hand back on the covers. 'No I don't. I was thinking that I kinda owe Leo one now.'

'For healing me?' Helena looked at him until he nodded. 'You don't seem pleased at the thought.'

Chris could almost see her piecing things together in her head. He wondered if she would let him get away with not explaining things…Chris got a very vivid image in his head of her chasing him through the underworld until he told her. Yeah avoiding it wouldn't have good results.

'Chris?' Helena was looking at him expectantly. 'I recently sobbed all my worries out onto your shoulder, the least I can do is help you with your problems. Talk to me.'

Chris took a deep breath. 'I'm Piper's son.' Chris paused but other than her eyes widening, Helena didn't respond. 'You know I'm from the future. I came back to save my family. In the future Wyatt is basically an ultimate ruler. Magic isn't hidden anymore because Wyatt lets his demons do as they wish. The elders were all but gone, so they can't do anything. That little boy playing with your son today, grows up to be the leader of all evil. I came back to stop whatever demon turned him evil.'

Chris stopped and watched Helena for her reaction. It wasn't what he was expecting. She burst out laughing, trying to keep quiet but not really succeeding.

'What's so funny?' Chris was astonished at her reaction. He hadn't known what to expect, but…not this that's for sure.

'Oh nothing…it's just…' Helena stopped laughing but was still grinning. 'It's just we both had to travel through time to solve our problems.'

Chris realised why she found that so funny and laughed as well. They certainly made a pair.

Helena's smile softened. 'What a pair huh? What are the odds that we'd meet, when we were born centuries apart?'

Chris smiled at her. 'Yeah, what are the odds.'


Author Note – This story was started because of a nightmare I had. Basically the scene of Helena running from Kiernan is what was in my dream. The rest just kept coming from my imagination. I hope you like it. If it's popular enough I will continue with the story and do the whole of season 6. Let me know what you think. Keep in mind I basically wrote this in about three days. If you spot any mistakes send me a PM and I'll fix it.

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