CHARMED
"Immortal Games"
By J. B. Tilton (a.k.a. NoAzMale) and Teri Thibeault (a.k.a. Tessalynne)
Rating: K
Disclaimer: "Charmed" and all related characters and events are the property of the WB television network, except for those characters specifically created for this story. This is a work of fan fiction and no infringement of copyright is intended.
(Authors' note: This story takes place between season 3 episodes "The Good, The Bad, And The Cursed" and "Just Harried".)
One of the richest men in the world asks the Charmed Ones for their help with a demon that's after him. Except the demon seems to be unvanquishable.
PRELUDE
The man stood concealed in the murky shadows of an alleyway. The sun had set several hours earlier and he had finally ventured out. A solitary man by nature he found large cities – like San Francisco – especially bothersome. But he had little choice. He went where the hunt led him. He had searched long and hard for his prey. It was only a matter of time before he found the person he was searching for. But he was a patient man and he had plenty of time.
The man lit a cigarette, his face briefly illuminated in the flickering flame of the lighter. Clean-shaven with shaggy blonde hair, most women would have found him extremely attractive. He had long ago decided against any kind of romantic involvement, however. They always ended the same way. And after all these years he had decided living alone was better than the inevitable loss.
Three figures suddenly shimmered in several yards behind the man. They appeared to be human but then that would be normal. It wouldn't do for them to appear in their demonic forms. Most people didn't even believe in them. That made their "work" just that much easier.
Silently the three figures moved up the alleyway toward the man. He never turned to look at them. He appeared to be totally unconcerned that someone might be sneaking up on him. Suddenly as the three demons came within only a few feet of the man he turned to face them.
The lights from a passing car momentarily illuminated the alley bathing the four figures its light. The demons saw the man and fear showed in their faces. They backed away from the man several steps.
"Out for an evening stroll?" the man asked. He dragged on his cigarette nonchalantly.
"We don't want any trouble," said the lead demon.
"Really?" the man questioned. "Is that why you're sneaking up on humans in dark alleyways?"
"We're just following our orders," said the demon. "Like I said, we don't want any trouble with you."
"Then I suggest you find your amusement somewhere else," said the man. "While I'm feeling generous."
"No problem," said the demon.
Unceremoniously the three demons shimmered out of the alleyway. The man turned and looked out into the street beyond. As usual the streets were busy. He would blend in as any other denizen of the city. He pulled a small stone out of his pocket that glowed with a bluish light. It wouldn't be long now. Placing the stone back into his pocket he crushed out his cigarette and slipped into the crowded streets beyond.