CHARMED
"BALANCE OF POWER"
by J. B. Tilton
Rating: PG-13
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.
A special thanks to Tracie Joy (a.k.a. Majiklmoon) for her help in this story.
* * *
Authors' note: This story takes place after the episode where the Charmed Ones have
killed the Source but before the episode where Cole discovers he is inhabited by the
Source. It is based on the premise that It took the Source several days to manifest
himself inside Cole and Cole still believes himself to be only a human.
* * *
With the death of the Source, a struggle in the underworld ensues to see who will be
his replacement. In order to make the selection, a contest is started. The new Source
will be the demon who can kill the Charmed Ones
PART 2 - SMALL PACKAGES
A young girl with an awesome power seeks aid from the Charmed Ones when
demons from rival groups attempt to capture her to control her power.
* * *
Phoebe came running down the stairs of the manor. It was just getting dark out and
she had decided to forget about job hunting for the evening and go enjoy a movie. Cole
was sitting on the sofa in the living room looking through the paper.
"Hey, sweetie," said Phoebe, "what'cha doin'?"
"Looking for a job," said Cole, annoyance in his voice.
"You still on that kick?" asked Phoebe. "I thought you had given up on that for a
while? After your fiasco at Paiges' work place, I thought you'd decided not to worry
about a job for now?"
"I have to get a job some time," said Cole. "I'm sure Paige and Piper don't want me
freeloading off them the rest of my life."
"They understand," said Phoebe, sitting on the arm of the sofa and putting her arm
around him. "It's not easy being a demon for over a hundred years then suddenly
becoming human. It will take some time to adjust."
"I suppose," said Cole. "I just don't want to be a burden."
"For who?" asked Piper, coming into the room, Leo close behind.
"For you," said Cole. "I know it's not easy with me being here. I just want to pull my
own weight around here."
"Cole," said Leo, "don't give it a second thought. You were a demon for over a
hundred years. You can't just turn around and become human over night."
"That's what I told him," said Phoebe.
"Where's Paige?" asked Cole, desperately trying to change the subject.
"Upstairs," said Leo. "She said something about a hot date tonight."
Suddenly the door bell rang. Phoebe jumped up off the arm of the sofa and walked
into the entryway. She opened the door expecting to see an adult standing outside.
Instead, she saw a young girl about seven years old. Her blonde hair was tied into two
pigtails. She was glancing around nervously.
"Hello?" said Phoebe. "Who are you?"
"I'm Jessica," said the little girl, glancing back to the street. "I was told to come here.
He told me you would help me."
"He?" questioned Phoebe. "He who?"
The others had heard the conversation and were looking at the door from the
doorway to the living room. Paige was just coming down the stairs.
"Can I come in?" asked the little girl. "There are bad men who want to hurt me. He
said you would help me."
"Sure," said Phoebe, stepping to the side of the door. "We'll help you."
The little girl started to enter the manor when a demon suddenly shimmered in
behind her. He grabbed the little girl by the arms. Piper didn't hesitate. She didn't
know what was going on, but she knew that if she didn't react, the demon would
shimmer out with the little girl.
Piper raised her hands and froze the entire doorway. She wasn't afraid of catching
Phoebe in the freeze. Phoebe was a witch. Witches weren't affected by her freezing
ability. But mortals and most demons were affected. With them both frozen, they could
rescue the little girl from the demon.
The demon froze in place, his hands just barely around the little girls' arms. Phoebe
knew it would be relatively easy to pry his hands off of her. She was about to reach for
the demons' hands when the little girl suddenly wriggled free of the demons' grasp.
Then she ran into the manor and stood behind Piper and Leo, using their bodies to
shield her against the demon.
"Okay, what just happened?" asked Phoebe. "Shouldn't she be frozen?"
"Not if she's a witch," said Piper. "Remember, my freezing ability doesn't work on
witches."
"She's not a witch," said Leo. "She's not old enough for her powers to have
manifested themselves yet. Which means she should be just as normal as any other
mortal."
"Okay," said Piper, "so what is she?"
"Can we talk about that later?" asked Paige, reaching the bottom of the stairs.
"Right now, there's a demon frozen in our doorway. Shouldn't we do something about
that first."
"Paige is right," said Phoebe. "Cole, honey. Any idea who or what this is?"
Cole looked the demon over. The demon was about his height, but its' skin was a
dark blue. A ridge of spines ran down it's back and its' three-fingered hands ended in
four inch razor sharp talons. Its' eyes were an aquamarine color with no pupils.
"It's a retriever demon," said Cole. "Its' normally used by high level demons to
retrieve people or objects of importance to that demon."
"So why would a high level demon be interested in a seven year old girl?" asked
Piper.
"I don't know," said Cole. "Not without knowing what demon he works for."
"Easy enough," said Piper.
With a wave of her hand, the demons' head was freed from the freeze.
"Okay, blue boy," said Piper, "we want some answers. Who are you and what do
you want with this little girl?"
"Witch," spat out the demon. "Three witches. You are the Charmed Ones."
"Hey, he can count," said Phoebe. "Now answer the question. Who's your boss
and why does he want this little girl?"
"I'll never tell you, witch," said the demon. "You can torture me all you want, but I will
never betray my master."
"He's more afraid of his demon master than us," said Cole. "That can only mean he
serves a select number of demons. All very high up. It narrows the list quite a bit."
"For a human," said the demon, "you know much about our kind. You're no witch.
What are you? A druid? A sorcerer?"
"Nothing so dramatic," said Cole. "Just someone who knows quite a lot about your
kind."
"No human knows so much," said the demon, "not even the Charmed Ones. Only
one of my kind would know so much, but you are obviously no demon. Who are you,
human?"
Cole just looked around at the rest of the group. He wasn't sure what to say. The
underworld was convinced that Belthazor was vanquished. If he admitted who he was,
it would open a whole can of worms that could put them all in danger.
"We're asking the questions here," said Piper. "As for torture, how would you like to
have your fingers and toes exploded one at a time? Might be kind of messy but could
be a lot of fun."
Leo just looked at Piper. He knew she wouldn't do what she claimed. But the
demon didn't know that. He just didn't like her making baseless threats.
"As I said," said the demon, "there is no torture you could do to me that would be
worse than what my master will do when he learns I have failed. So do your worst. At
least I'll live a bit longer."
"Conference," said Piper.
Everyone filed into the living room. Phoebe stood in the doorway watching the
demon. They had had experience with demons breaking loose from Pipers' freeze
before. If that should happen, she wanted to be ready for him.
"Okay, what do we do?" asked Piper. "I can't keep him frozen in our doorway
forever. The neighbors might start to talk."
"We could tie him up and put him in the basement?" suggested Paige.
"Won't do any good," said Cole. "He'd just shimmer out."
"He's a demon," said Paige. "Why not just blow him up?"
Suddenly the demon burst free of the freeze. He just smiled at the group and
moved into the manor. Piper raised her hands again to refreeze him but he was
unaffected. When Cole saw this, he looked stunned.
"Mephistan," he said. "You serve Mephistan. He occasionally gives his underlings
an immunity to certain witches powers. It's the only thing that explains how you could
withstand Pipers' freezing ability."
"Belthazor," said the demon. "We were told you were vanquished. Wait until I tell
the master you still live. Once I deliver the girl to him, and give him this information, I
will become his most important aid. With my immunity to the witches' powers, I have
nothing to fear. Give me the girl and maybe I won't kill you."
"What do we do?" asked Paige.
Piper raised her hands and tried to explode the demon. The power just passed
around the demon causing no harm to it. The demon smiled and moved in to take the
girl. Leo moved to stop the demon, but the demon picked him up and cast him aside
like a rag doll. Phoebe kicked out with her martial arts skill, but the demon just grabbed
her leg and threw her aside. Cole barely caught her from falling to the floor.
The demon smiled, knowing there was no one to stop him. He pushed Piper and
Paige aside and reached for the little girl. As his clawed hand began to close around
Jessicas' arm, he prepared to shimmer out.
Jessica screamed, "no", and reached up to push the demon away. As she did, the
demon stiffened, then screamed in agony. Seconds later he shattered into a million
black shards that evaporated nearly instantly. Everyone stood up and looked in
astonishment at Jessica.
* * *
"What happened in there?" asked Piper, after they had moved to the kitchen.
Phoebe was busy getting Jessica some milk and cookies. Leo stood at the back
door watching for any surprise attacks, while Cole stood in the doorway to the kitchen
watching the living room. Jessica was seated between Paige and Piper.
"I think I know why Mephistan wants her," said Cole. "Mephistan is a very high level
demon. Higher than even Belthazor was. There are only about a dozen demons as
high up as he is. And only about half of them with his power."
"So what happened?" asked Phoebe, putting the cookies and milk in front of
Jessica. "One minute we're getting our asses kicked by this demon, the next thing he's
sushi."
"She's a vanquisher," said Leo.
"A what?" asked Piper.
"A vanquisher," repeated Cole. "Every so often, a mortal is born with the ability to
vanquish creatures. They are very rare. And if they can be properly trained, they can
be very powerful for which ever side gets her."
"What do you mean 'which ever side'?" asked Phoebe.
"Vanquishers are just regular mortals with an unusual power," said Leo. "Like most
mortals, they have the propensity for good or evil. If a demon were to get hold of her,
he'd raise her evil. And use her power against good. Like witches."
"Now there's a nice thought," said Paige. "Is that why Pipers' freezing ability didn't
work on her?"
"Yes," said Cole. "Her vanquishing ability nullified it. It's one of the reasons a
vanquisher is so sought after. If she's trained to be evil, she can do a lot of damage to
the forces of good."
"Then we have to protect her," said Piper. "Regardless of what power she might
have, she's still only a child. She's an innocent."
"But why did she come to us?" asked Paige. "Didn't she say something about
someone sending her here?"
"Yes," said Jessica. "The angel sent me. He said you would protect me."
"Angel, honey," said Piper. "What angel?"
"The blue angel," said Jessica. "After my mom and dad died, I thought I was all
alone. Then a blue angel came to me. He said that some very bad men would come to
hurt me and that if I came here, you'd protect me from them. He dropped me off
outside, then he went away."
"Blue angel?" questioned Phoebe. "Could she be talking about a White Lighter?
Leo, when you orb, there's a kind of bluish effect. Could that be what she means?"
"I don't know," said Leo. "If it was a White Lighter, why didn't he bring her in
himself? I would imagine she's his charge. It's not like a White Lighter to pass off a
charge without good cause."
"Maybe I can answer that," said a voice from the doorway.
Cole turned and saw a man standing only a couple of feet from him. The man
appeared to be about Leos' age. He had dark hair and was wearing a three piece suit.
He was smiling as if he didn't have a care in the world.
"Whoa," said Cole, "where did you come from? And who are you?"
"Hi, Leo," said the man. "Hello, Jessica."
"That's him," said Jessica. "That's my angel."
"Michael," said Leo. He was obviously stunned. "I didn't know you were in town."
"Only been here a couple of days," said Michael. He turned to Cole. "Mind if I get
through? There are some things I need to discuss with the Charmed Ones."
Cole stepped to one side and let Michael into the kitchen. The look on his face had
changed. From one of astonishment to one of concern. Or maybe even fear.
"Have we met before?" asked Michael, stopping for a moment to look at Cole. "You
seem familiar to me."
"N . . . no, no, I don't think so," said Cole nervously. "Phoebe, can I see you upstairs
for a minute?"
"Sure, Cole," said Phoebe. "Will you guys be okay?"
"They'll be fine," said Leo. "Michael's a White Lighter."
Phoebe and Cole left the kitchen and Michael took a seat at the table.
"Actually," said Michael, "I'm more than just a White Lighter. I'm a warrior White
Lighter."
"A what?" asked Paige. "I didn't know there was such a thing."
"A few," said Leo. "Michael has more abilities than a normal White Lighter.
Because of that, he is used in a different way than normal White Lighters. It explains
why he brought Jessica here."
"I fight for the side of good," said Michael. "As the Charmed Ones, you're expected
to fight for yourselves. That's why you have your powers. But some good people don't
have any powers. That's where I come in. When they are faced with an opponent they
can't handle, I step in. Sort of like a champion for them."
"Okay," said Piper. "So why bring Jessica here? Are we supposed to protect her
until she learns to use her power?"
"No," said Michael. "Jessicas' parents were killed in a car accident a few weeks ago.
When I discovered what she was, I knew she had to be gotten to some place safe.
Where she can be trained to use her powers for good. I had to make arrangements for
her to go to that place, but I also knew the demons would be after her. So I brought her
here so you can protect her. Until the Guardians arrive."
"The Guardians?" asked Piper.
"They're a special group," explained Leo. "They only take in the most powerful
forces of good. To train them to fight evil. I didn't know you could contact them,
Michael? My understanding is that no one can contact them. They contact us."
"Normally, that's true," said Michael. "But I have, shall we say, certain connections
that most White Lighters don't have. I had to inform the Guardians where the girl was
so they could send someone to get her. They've been looking for her but didn't know
where she was."
"So all we have to do is protect her until these Guardians show up," said Piper.
"Then what? They whisk her away to never never land?"
"Something like that," said Michael. "Once she's with them, she'll be protected from
all evil. When she returns, she'll be a powerful source of power for good. A vanquisher
can actually upset the balance between good and evil if they aren't properly trained.
Jessica is the first in a long line of vanquishers that the demons haven't killed because
they couldn't control her. She has to be protected at all costs."
"Michael, if you're here then that means . . . ," Leos' voice trailed off.
"Malevant is close by, I'm sure," said Michael. "If Mephistan is after Jessica, then
you can bet Malevant is, too. That's why I came back. To help protect Jessica."
"Who's Malevant?" asked Paige.
"A very high level demon," said Leo. "Rumor has it he was often the right hand
demon to the Source. And one of the contenders to replace the Source when he died."
"Which means he'll be coming after us," said Piper, disgust in her voice.
"Word about your destroying the Source has spread quickly," said Michael. "I would
gather that Mephistan isn't quite sure just how much you've recouped from your battle
with him. Otherwise, he would have come himself rather than sending one of his
retrievers to get Jessica. He'll be even more cautious when he learns you destroyed his
messenger."
"Okay," said Piper, "so how long before these Guardians get here?"
"I can't say," said Michael. "They have certain preparations they need to make.
When they're finished, they'll come for Jessica."
"Well," said Piper, "it's not like we haven't had demons in the house before. I
suppose Jessica can stay in our room. Paige, would you mind bunking on the couch for
a couple of nights? I hate to ask but . . . ."
"I guess it will be okay," said Paige. "Only, let's not make this a habit."
"Why don't I get Jessica up to bed?" asked Michael. "She must be tired from her
ordeal. And since she hasn't learned to use her power properly, I'm sure that drained
her as well."
"I'll show them where it is," said Paige. "I have to get some bedding for the sofa,
anyway."
"Honey," said Piper, after the others had left, "why do I get the feeling that there's
some history between Michael and this Malevant?"
"There is," said Leo, sitting down next to her. "Actually, there's more than history.
They're brothers."
"Brothers?" asked Piper. "One's a demon the other's a White Lighter. How can they
be brothers?"
"Michael isn't a White Lighter in the strictest sense of the word," said Leo. "He's like
Paige. His mother was a White Lighter."
"And is father was a demon?" asked Piper. "Just how does that work?"
"Over a hundred years ago," said Leo, "a demon got an idea to create a sort of
super demon. He captured a White Lighter and bound her powers so she couldn't use
them. Then he raped her. The result was Michael and Malevant. One good, one evil.
They've been mortal enemies most of their lives. It's why Michael has more abilities
than a normal White Lighter. He inherited some of the demons' powers but not his
evil."
"Whoa," said Piper. "And I thought our child might have problems. When we decide
to have a child. I can only imagine what kind of upbringing they must have had."
"No one really knows," said Leo. "The demon murdered their mother as soon as
they were born. Then he gave them to a female warlock to raise as evil. When they
were twelve, they ran away. Michael still won't talk about why. No one knows.
Anyway, when they were about twenty five, they both resurfaced. One was Malevant,
working for demons and despising anything human. The other was Michael, a
champion of good."
"Talk about opposite sides of the same coin," said Piper.
"He's handled it very well," said Leo. "Although Malevant and Michael have both
sworn they'll kill each other one day. So far, neither has been able to. I guess they're
just too evenly matched."
"Well, I hope these Guardians get here soon," said Piper. "The sooner Jessica is
out of danger the sooner we can go back to our abnormally normal lives."
Leo just smiled, then kissed his wife.
* * *
Upstairs, Cole grabbed a suitcase and hurriedly began to put clothes into it. Phoebe
walked into the bedroom behind him, totally perplexed.
"What's going on?" she asked.
"I have to get out of here," said Cole.
"Why?" asked Phoebe.
"Michael," said Cole. "He knows who I am. Or at least who I used to be. He and
Belthazor have met. We actually fought once, and I was lucky to escape with my life.
He hasn't recognized me yet, but when he does, he won't hesitate to kill me first and
forget about asking questions. He swore he'd kill Belthazor the first chance he got."
"Why?" asked Phoebe.
Cole related to her Michaels' history as Leo had related it to Piper.
"Apparently," continued Cole, "Michael found a witch who raised him until he was
twenty five. Then she died and he joined the forces of good. He blames me for his
foster mothers' death. He claims I killed her."
"Did you?" asked Phoebe.
"I don't know," said Cole. "That's the worst part of it. I don't remember doing it, but
there were a lot of victims for Belthazor. He never saw me in my human form, which is
why he hasn't recognized me yet. But when he does, and I'm sure that he will, I'm
dead. And without my powers, I won't have any way to protect myself."
"We can protect you," said Phoebe.
"No," said Cole, moving to her. "I don't want to put you in harms way for something I
did eighty years ago. The best thing is for me to leave until he's gone. That way no
one is in danger."
Phoebe walked over to her dresser and opened her purse. She pulled out a wad of
money and walked back to Cole. She pressed the money into his hand.
"It's all I have right now," she said. "When you get to where ever it is you're going,
call me. I'll bring more."
"Thanks for understanding," said Cole.
"I didn't say I understood," said Phoebe. "But I have to trust that you're doing what
you think is best. I'm sure he won't be here long then things can get back to normal."
"I hope so," he said.
Cole took Phoebe in his arms and kissed her long and hard. Then he continued
packing so that he could get out of the manor as quickly as possible.
* * *
"I suppose Leo told you all about me," said Michael at breakfast the next morning.
"Oh, he mentioned a thing or two," said Piper coyly.
The atmosphere seemed more relaxed than it had the night before. Jessica was
eating a bowl of cereal and didn't seem to have a care in the world. Phoebe had told
everyone that Cole needed to go visit a sick friend for a couple of days. And with
demons out looking for Jessica, Piper thought it best if Paige stayed around the house
for the day, so she had called in sick.
"Not much of a secret," said Michael. "Malevant and I have been enemies for a very
long time. I guess he inherited our fathers' evil while I inherited our mothers' goodness.
Actually, it kind of makes sense, in a way."
"Yeah, I guess so," said Phoebe. "I can't imagine what it's like to have a brother or
sister who's your sworn enemy. We've always been so close."
"Well, not always," said Piper, remember how rebellious Phoebe had been in her
younger days.
"It's something I got used to a long time ago," said Michael. "Actually, I stopped
thinking of him as my brother when we were twelve."
"Michael," said Leo self-consciously, "you've never talked about that time. I was just
wondering why? If it's not prying."
"It is prying," said Michael, smiling, "but I'm not offended. Let's just say that some
things happened that caused a change in my brother and myself. We never were very
close, but this drove us even farther apart. I don't really like to talk about it."
"That's okay," said Leo. "I didn't mean to open any old wounds."
"You didn't," said Michael. "And I do appreciate your concern. You're not the first to
ask about that and you probably won't be the last. I just prefer to keep that part of my
life private."
"We understand," said Phoebe. "It's not easy having a secret you can't tell anyone.
Believe me, we know. We're not even allowed to tell anyone we're witches, let alone
the Charmed Ones."
"Which hasn't seemed to stop every demon in creation from finding out," interjected
Paige.
"So," said Piper, trying to change the mood, "any idea how long before these
Guardians arrive?"
"It shouldn't be long," said Michael. "Probably no more than a day or two. I have to
go 'out' for a while, but I'll be back. I know Jessica will be perfectly safe here with the
three of you. It's why I sent her here in the first place."
"I thought you didn't have charges like regular White Lighters?" asked Paige.
"I don't," said Michael. "But there are those who need my help and protection. I like
to check in on them from time to time just to be safe. And they know they can call me
whenever they need me. I just like to let them know I'm still around."
"Are you leaving?" asked Jessica, her mouth full of cereal.
"Jessica, honey," said Piper, "don't talk with your mouth full. It's not polite."
"You're going to make a wonderful mother, Piper," said Michael. He then turned to
Jessica. "Yes, Jessica, I have to leave for just a little bit. But Piper, Phoebe, Paige,
and Leo are going to watch over you until I come back. You have nothing to worry
about."
"When will the gardons come get me?" asked Jessica.
"She knows about them?" asked Leo.
"Yes," said Michael. "I thought it was best if she was prepared for them. Jessica,
they're coming for you soon. Don't worry. Once you go with them, no one will ever be
able to hurt you again. I promise."
"I miss momma," said Jessica suddenly.
"I'm sure she misses you, too, honey," said Phoebe. "But you'll be able to see her
again some day. I promise you that."
"Well," said Michael, "I'd better get going. I shouldn't be gone more than a couple of
hours. I think you're safe for the time being. After the incident with the retriever demon,
the others will be a bit more cautious. They'll want to gauge their advantage before
they try anything else. I'll be back as soon as I can."
Michael orbed out of the kitchen. Leo moved from the sink, where he had been
standing, and took a seat in the chair where Michael had been sitting.
"I hope I didn't upset him," said Leo.
"I don't think you did," said Piper. "I just think it's too painful for him to talk about it.
It is his brother, after all. I can't even imagine how I'd feel if Phoebe or Paige was that
dedicated to destroying me."
"It isn't just his brother Malevant wants to destroy," said Leo. "Malevant despises
anything that is even remotely connected to humanity. He has always refused to even
take his human form for any reason. And even his underlings are forbidden from
assuming human form in his presence. It's even reported that he once destroyed one
who forgot and appeared before him I his human form."
"That's pretty bad," said Paige. "Why is he so down on humanity? Despite the fact
he's a demon, I mean."
"He just does," said Leo. "He once said, or at least this is what I'm told, since
neither of his parents was human, he has no obligation to humanity."
"Not a nice guy, obviously," said Phoebe.
"He is an upper level demon, Phoebe," said Piper. "None of them are nice guys."
"Cole is," said Phoebe defensively.
"Cole is also no longer a demon," offered Leo. "He's fully human. That makes
somewhat of a difference."
"I suppose," said Phoebe.
"Can I watch cartoons?" asked Jessica suddenly. "Momma used to let me watch
cartoons in the mornings. I haven't been able to since she and poppa left."
"Sure, honey," said Piper. "The television is in the living room. And the remote is on
the coffee table. Do you know how to use a remote?"
"Sure," said Jessica, trying to act grownup. "Poppa showed me. He said I was
really smart."
"Of course you are," said Piper, taking Jessicas' hand. "I'll tell you what. I'll go
watch some cartoons with you. Would you like that?"
"Sure, Piper," said Jessica. "Momma used to watch with me. Well, at least some
times she did."
"Well, then," said Piper, "let's go see what's on, shall we?"
Piper and Jessica went into the living room leaving Leo, Phoebe, and Paige in the
kitchen alone. Leo was thinking about what Michael had said. How Piper was going to
make a good mother.
"What do we do now?" asked Paige. "I took the day off to help protect Jessica.
What do we do while we're waiting for these Guardians to show up?"
"Just keep busy," said Phoebe. "Believe me, I'm fully aware of keeping myself busy
during the day. When you don't have a job, there's not much else to do. So all you do
is hang around the house and amuse yourself."
"Great," said Paige. "Maybe there's a book in the library or something. Or maybe I
should go watch cartoons with Piper and Jessica."
"Just take it easy, Paige," said Leo. "Being a Charmed One isn't always about
fighting demons, you know. You're primary responsibility it so protect the innocent.
Some times that means you just sit and wait."
"Thanks," said Paige. "I'll do my best."
She left the kitchen and went upstairs. Phoebe and Leo just looked at each other
and shrugged simultaneously.
* * *
Most of the day had passed uneventfully. No demons attacked, nor did they even
make an appearance. Michael hadn't returned and the Guardians he had promised
had made no appearance. After a couple of hours, Piper had her fill of cartoons. She
decided Jessica would be safe enough in the living room and went into the kitchen.
Leo was in the kitchen washing dishes.
"You're washing dishes." said Piper with total surprise. "What's the occasion?"
"We're married now," said Leo.
"Yeah," said Piper, "for a while. You've never washed dishes before."
"I just thought I'd pitch in some more," said Leo. "You know, sort of start sharing the
housework and all."
"Okay, what are you up to?" asked Piper. "I know you, Leo Wyatt. You always get
extra helpful when you want something."
"I was just thinking about what Michael said," said Leo. "About you being a great
mother. I just think we should talk about it some more. That's all."
"Okay," said Piper. "It seems we have some time on our hands. And you seem to
have given this some serious thought. What exactly is on your mind?"
Just as Leo was about to answer, there was a knock at the back door. Before either
could move to answer it, the door opened and Michael stuck his head in.
"Hey all," he said. "Mind if I come in?"
"Sure," said Piper. "Why didn't you just orb in like Leo always does?"
"I thought this would be a bit more conventional," said Michael, walking in. "Besides,
I didn't want startle anyone and accidentally cause an attack or anything."
"Okay," said Leo. "I guess I can understand that. So, any news on the Guardians
yet?"
"Actually, yes," said Michael, smiling. "They contacted me a bit ago. They've
instructed me to take the girl to meet them. Once they have her, she'll be safe. Then
you can all go back to your lives."
"Finally," said Piper. "She's in the living room. I'll go get Paige and Phoebe. I'm
sure they'll want to say goodbye to her."
"I sure would," said Paige, walking into the kitchen. "She's such a nice little girl. I
hope we can see her again sometime."
"I'm sure you can," said Michael. "The girl is very important. The Guardians will
probably want her to keep in touch with people who are close to her. To make her feel
more comfortable."
"You want me to go with you?" asked Leo. "When you take her to them?"
"No, no," said Michael. "They want me to bring her alone. It's how they work. You
know how secretive they are."
"Yes," said Leo, "I do. Let's go get her. The sooner we get her to the Guardians,
the safer she'll be."
Leo and Piper led Michael into the living room, Paige close behind. Jessica was still
sitting on the sofa watching television. She glanced up a the four of them, smiled, then
went back to watching television.
"Maria," said Paige before anyone else could say anything, "Michael's here to take
you to the Guardians."
"Yes, Maria," said Michael, "they want me to take you to them right away. So that
you'll be safe."
"What are you talking about, Michael?" asked Leo. "Her name's not Maria. You
know that."
"He would if he was Michael," said Paige. "Obviously, he isn't."
Piper reacted instantly. She raised her hands and tried to freeze Michael, or
whoever he was. But instead, the power just passed around him.
"Witch," said Michael. "Your power doesn't work on me. I'll have the girl and no one
will stop me."
He raised his hand and cast a fireball at Paige. Paige orbed out and the fireball
passed harmlessly past her, then she orbed back into the same spot.
"That was rude," she said.
Suddenly, someone orbed into the living room. When he finished orbing, it was
Michael. He stood looking at the other Michael with Leo and Piper.
"Not this time, demon," said Michael. "This child will not fall to the likes of you."
The demon raised his hand and was preparing to cast another fireball, this time at
Michael. Suddenly, Phoebe appeared behind him and jumped into the air and kicked
him along the side of the head. The demon Michael went flying across the room and
his fireball exploded harmlessly on the fireplace.
"Leo," shouted Michael.
He grabbed Jessica by the arm and pushed her to Leo. Leo grabbed Jessica by the
arm and orbed the two out. Piper had no idea where they were, but that was
unimportant at the moment. Jessica would be safe and they had a demon to fight.
The demon regained his feet quickly and turned on the others. A cut covered his
forehead above his right eye and green blood oozed from it. He turned and fired
another fireball at the group.
Everyone except Michael dived for cover. Michael just raised his hand and the
fireball seemed to be absorbed into it. He then drew his hand back and cast it back out.
The fireball was cast from his hand and exploded on the fireplace as the demon dived
for cover.
"A mimic demon," said Michael. "It's been a while since I faced one of your kind.
Someone must be pretty desperate to send one of you into the manor. And
impersonating me. I'm flattered."
"You won't be when Malevant destroys you," said the demon. "I may not have the
girl, but my master will finish you."
"You tell Malevant any time," said Michael.
The demon shuddered and was gone. Almost as quickly, two robed figures simply
appeared in the entryway to the manor. They didn't orb, as Leo and Michael did, nor
did they shimmer, like demons. They just appeared. Piper turned and raised her
hands, ready to destroy these new demons.
"No, don't," said Michael, moving to put himself between the robed figures and
Piper. "These are the Guardian Messengers. They're the ones who are to take Jessica
to the Guardians."
"Oh, okay," said Piper, lowering her hand. "Sorry guys."
"Leo," said Michael into the air.
Leo and Jessica orbed back in.
"Jessica," said Michael, "these two are called Guardian Messengers. They will take
you to the Guardians like I told you. You'll be safe with them."
"Aren't you coming?" asked Jessica.
"Not right now," said Michael. "Perhaps they'll let me visit soon. Just to see how
you're doing."
He looked up at one of the Messengers. The Messenger didn't say a word, but
nodded one indicating he could.
"You have to go with them now," said Michael. "There's no reason to be afraid."
"I'm not afraid," said Jessica. "You're my angel and momma always said that angels
would never hurt me."
"Good," said Michael. "Go with them now and I'll come visit as soon as I can."
Jessica walked over and stood next to the two Messengers. Without a word, the
three of them simply vanished.
"How did you know that wasn't Michael?" asked Leo.
"That's a good question," said Michael. "Mimic demons are usually extremely
difficult to detect."
"I wasn't sure," said Paige. "But when he called Jessica 'the girl' instead of by
name, I was a little suspicious. Michael seemed very fond of Jessica. It just seemed
odd that he would be treating her that way."
"I am very fond of her," said Michael. "She's the daughter I never had."
"Well," said Phoebe, "I don't think he'll be bothering us again. At least not for a
while."
"Probably not again," said Michael. "Malevant doesn't tolerate failure. More than
likely he'll destroy that demon for failing. I think I'd better leave for a while. See if I can
draw Malevant away from you. As long as I stay, you're in danger from him."
"That's nothing new to us," said Piper. "We're sort of used to having demons pop in
uninvited."
"Michaels' probably right," said Leo. "No one knows Malevant as well as he does.
And if Malevant is as powerful as I've been told, he would be a problem even for the
Power of Three."
"He's as powerful as you've been told," said Michael. "He's as powerful as I am. It's
one of the reasons we've never been able to beat each other. It's sort of like fighting
yourself. There can never be a winner really. Not until one of us figures out a way to
gain the upper hand."
"If he's as powerful as you are," said Leo, "then he's extremely dangerous. More
dangerous than even the Source was. And with his hatred of humanity, he won't show
any compassion."
"I'll stop back in a couple of days," said Michael. "Once I've led Malevant away so
you won't be in any undue danger."
Michael smiled once, then orbed out.
"That was interesting," said Piper. "Not one but two demon attacks in one day.
What's next? A demon convention in the living room?"
"We're safe for a bit," said Leo. "Two high level demons have lost powerful
underlings today. Mimic and retrieval demons are really rare demons. That's why they
serve only the most powerful of high level demons. Those demons won't want to risk
any more of their most powerful underlings without regrouping."
"I keep hearing that," said Paige, "but they keep showing up."
"Believe it this time," said Leo. "Besides, both demons were here after Jessica.
Now that she's with the Guardians, they'll have to reevaluate their priorities."
"Okay," said Phoebe, "that sounds good. Well, I think I'll go out for a while. Maybe
catch that movie I missed last night."
"Well," said Paige, "I can still get in half a days' work. Maybe it will make up for my
being late so much lately."
"Piper, honey," said Leo. "I think there was something we were going to talk about
before Michael showed up."
"Yes, I believe you're right," said Piper. "Let's talk while we finish the dishes."
To be continued . . .
Be sure not to miss Part 3: Failure and Betrayal. The mimic demon, Zimlock, learns
the price for failing Malevant and the high level demons plot their next move against the
Charmed Ones.
If you've enjoyed this story, you can find more of my stories for a variety of shows and
subjects at http://pub57.ezboard.com/bjerrysfanfictionsite. You can also post your
stories if you like to write fan fiction.
"BALANCE OF POWER"
by J. B. Tilton
Rating: PG-13
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.
A special thanks to Tracie Joy (a.k.a. Majiklmoon) for her help in this story.
* * *
Authors' note: This story takes place after the episode where the Charmed Ones have
killed the Source but before the episode where Cole discovers he is inhabited by the
Source. It is based on the premise that It took the Source several days to manifest
himself inside Cole and Cole still believes himself to be only a human.
* * *
With the death of the Source, a struggle in the underworld ensues to see who will be
his replacement. In order to make the selection, a contest is started. The new Source
will be the demon who can kill the Charmed Ones
PART 2 - SMALL PACKAGES
A young girl with an awesome power seeks aid from the Charmed Ones when
demons from rival groups attempt to capture her to control her power.
* * *
Phoebe came running down the stairs of the manor. It was just getting dark out and
she had decided to forget about job hunting for the evening and go enjoy a movie. Cole
was sitting on the sofa in the living room looking through the paper.
"Hey, sweetie," said Phoebe, "what'cha doin'?"
"Looking for a job," said Cole, annoyance in his voice.
"You still on that kick?" asked Phoebe. "I thought you had given up on that for a
while? After your fiasco at Paiges' work place, I thought you'd decided not to worry
about a job for now?"
"I have to get a job some time," said Cole. "I'm sure Paige and Piper don't want me
freeloading off them the rest of my life."
"They understand," said Phoebe, sitting on the arm of the sofa and putting her arm
around him. "It's not easy being a demon for over a hundred years then suddenly
becoming human. It will take some time to adjust."
"I suppose," said Cole. "I just don't want to be a burden."
"For who?" asked Piper, coming into the room, Leo close behind.
"For you," said Cole. "I know it's not easy with me being here. I just want to pull my
own weight around here."
"Cole," said Leo, "don't give it a second thought. You were a demon for over a
hundred years. You can't just turn around and become human over night."
"That's what I told him," said Phoebe.
"Where's Paige?" asked Cole, desperately trying to change the subject.
"Upstairs," said Leo. "She said something about a hot date tonight."
Suddenly the door bell rang. Phoebe jumped up off the arm of the sofa and walked
into the entryway. She opened the door expecting to see an adult standing outside.
Instead, she saw a young girl about seven years old. Her blonde hair was tied into two
pigtails. She was glancing around nervously.
"Hello?" said Phoebe. "Who are you?"
"I'm Jessica," said the little girl, glancing back to the street. "I was told to come here.
He told me you would help me."
"He?" questioned Phoebe. "He who?"
The others had heard the conversation and were looking at the door from the
doorway to the living room. Paige was just coming down the stairs.
"Can I come in?" asked the little girl. "There are bad men who want to hurt me. He
said you would help me."
"Sure," said Phoebe, stepping to the side of the door. "We'll help you."
The little girl started to enter the manor when a demon suddenly shimmered in
behind her. He grabbed the little girl by the arms. Piper didn't hesitate. She didn't
know what was going on, but she knew that if she didn't react, the demon would
shimmer out with the little girl.
Piper raised her hands and froze the entire doorway. She wasn't afraid of catching
Phoebe in the freeze. Phoebe was a witch. Witches weren't affected by her freezing
ability. But mortals and most demons were affected. With them both frozen, they could
rescue the little girl from the demon.
The demon froze in place, his hands just barely around the little girls' arms. Phoebe
knew it would be relatively easy to pry his hands off of her. She was about to reach for
the demons' hands when the little girl suddenly wriggled free of the demons' grasp.
Then she ran into the manor and stood behind Piper and Leo, using their bodies to
shield her against the demon.
"Okay, what just happened?" asked Phoebe. "Shouldn't she be frozen?"
"Not if she's a witch," said Piper. "Remember, my freezing ability doesn't work on
witches."
"She's not a witch," said Leo. "She's not old enough for her powers to have
manifested themselves yet. Which means she should be just as normal as any other
mortal."
"Okay," said Piper, "so what is she?"
"Can we talk about that later?" asked Paige, reaching the bottom of the stairs.
"Right now, there's a demon frozen in our doorway. Shouldn't we do something about
that first."
"Paige is right," said Phoebe. "Cole, honey. Any idea who or what this is?"
Cole looked the demon over. The demon was about his height, but its' skin was a
dark blue. A ridge of spines ran down it's back and its' three-fingered hands ended in
four inch razor sharp talons. Its' eyes were an aquamarine color with no pupils.
"It's a retriever demon," said Cole. "Its' normally used by high level demons to
retrieve people or objects of importance to that demon."
"So why would a high level demon be interested in a seven year old girl?" asked
Piper.
"I don't know," said Cole. "Not without knowing what demon he works for."
"Easy enough," said Piper.
With a wave of her hand, the demons' head was freed from the freeze.
"Okay, blue boy," said Piper, "we want some answers. Who are you and what do
you want with this little girl?"
"Witch," spat out the demon. "Three witches. You are the Charmed Ones."
"Hey, he can count," said Phoebe. "Now answer the question. Who's your boss
and why does he want this little girl?"
"I'll never tell you, witch," said the demon. "You can torture me all you want, but I will
never betray my master."
"He's more afraid of his demon master than us," said Cole. "That can only mean he
serves a select number of demons. All very high up. It narrows the list quite a bit."
"For a human," said the demon, "you know much about our kind. You're no witch.
What are you? A druid? A sorcerer?"
"Nothing so dramatic," said Cole. "Just someone who knows quite a lot about your
kind."
"No human knows so much," said the demon, "not even the Charmed Ones. Only
one of my kind would know so much, but you are obviously no demon. Who are you,
human?"
Cole just looked around at the rest of the group. He wasn't sure what to say. The
underworld was convinced that Belthazor was vanquished. If he admitted who he was,
it would open a whole can of worms that could put them all in danger.
"We're asking the questions here," said Piper. "As for torture, how would you like to
have your fingers and toes exploded one at a time? Might be kind of messy but could
be a lot of fun."
Leo just looked at Piper. He knew she wouldn't do what she claimed. But the
demon didn't know that. He just didn't like her making baseless threats.
"As I said," said the demon, "there is no torture you could do to me that would be
worse than what my master will do when he learns I have failed. So do your worst. At
least I'll live a bit longer."
"Conference," said Piper.
Everyone filed into the living room. Phoebe stood in the doorway watching the
demon. They had had experience with demons breaking loose from Pipers' freeze
before. If that should happen, she wanted to be ready for him.
"Okay, what do we do?" asked Piper. "I can't keep him frozen in our doorway
forever. The neighbors might start to talk."
"We could tie him up and put him in the basement?" suggested Paige.
"Won't do any good," said Cole. "He'd just shimmer out."
"He's a demon," said Paige. "Why not just blow him up?"
Suddenly the demon burst free of the freeze. He just smiled at the group and
moved into the manor. Piper raised her hands again to refreeze him but he was
unaffected. When Cole saw this, he looked stunned.
"Mephistan," he said. "You serve Mephistan. He occasionally gives his underlings
an immunity to certain witches powers. It's the only thing that explains how you could
withstand Pipers' freezing ability."
"Belthazor," said the demon. "We were told you were vanquished. Wait until I tell
the master you still live. Once I deliver the girl to him, and give him this information, I
will become his most important aid. With my immunity to the witches' powers, I have
nothing to fear. Give me the girl and maybe I won't kill you."
"What do we do?" asked Paige.
Piper raised her hands and tried to explode the demon. The power just passed
around the demon causing no harm to it. The demon smiled and moved in to take the
girl. Leo moved to stop the demon, but the demon picked him up and cast him aside
like a rag doll. Phoebe kicked out with her martial arts skill, but the demon just grabbed
her leg and threw her aside. Cole barely caught her from falling to the floor.
The demon smiled, knowing there was no one to stop him. He pushed Piper and
Paige aside and reached for the little girl. As his clawed hand began to close around
Jessicas' arm, he prepared to shimmer out.
Jessica screamed, "no", and reached up to push the demon away. As she did, the
demon stiffened, then screamed in agony. Seconds later he shattered into a million
black shards that evaporated nearly instantly. Everyone stood up and looked in
astonishment at Jessica.
* * *
"What happened in there?" asked Piper, after they had moved to the kitchen.
Phoebe was busy getting Jessica some milk and cookies. Leo stood at the back
door watching for any surprise attacks, while Cole stood in the doorway to the kitchen
watching the living room. Jessica was seated between Paige and Piper.
"I think I know why Mephistan wants her," said Cole. "Mephistan is a very high level
demon. Higher than even Belthazor was. There are only about a dozen demons as
high up as he is. And only about half of them with his power."
"So what happened?" asked Phoebe, putting the cookies and milk in front of
Jessica. "One minute we're getting our asses kicked by this demon, the next thing he's
sushi."
"She's a vanquisher," said Leo.
"A what?" asked Piper.
"A vanquisher," repeated Cole. "Every so often, a mortal is born with the ability to
vanquish creatures. They are very rare. And if they can be properly trained, they can
be very powerful for which ever side gets her."
"What do you mean 'which ever side'?" asked Phoebe.
"Vanquishers are just regular mortals with an unusual power," said Leo. "Like most
mortals, they have the propensity for good or evil. If a demon were to get hold of her,
he'd raise her evil. And use her power against good. Like witches."
"Now there's a nice thought," said Paige. "Is that why Pipers' freezing ability didn't
work on her?"
"Yes," said Cole. "Her vanquishing ability nullified it. It's one of the reasons a
vanquisher is so sought after. If she's trained to be evil, she can do a lot of damage to
the forces of good."
"Then we have to protect her," said Piper. "Regardless of what power she might
have, she's still only a child. She's an innocent."
"But why did she come to us?" asked Paige. "Didn't she say something about
someone sending her here?"
"Yes," said Jessica. "The angel sent me. He said you would protect me."
"Angel, honey," said Piper. "What angel?"
"The blue angel," said Jessica. "After my mom and dad died, I thought I was all
alone. Then a blue angel came to me. He said that some very bad men would come to
hurt me and that if I came here, you'd protect me from them. He dropped me off
outside, then he went away."
"Blue angel?" questioned Phoebe. "Could she be talking about a White Lighter?
Leo, when you orb, there's a kind of bluish effect. Could that be what she means?"
"I don't know," said Leo. "If it was a White Lighter, why didn't he bring her in
himself? I would imagine she's his charge. It's not like a White Lighter to pass off a
charge without good cause."
"Maybe I can answer that," said a voice from the doorway.
Cole turned and saw a man standing only a couple of feet from him. The man
appeared to be about Leos' age. He had dark hair and was wearing a three piece suit.
He was smiling as if he didn't have a care in the world.
"Whoa," said Cole, "where did you come from? And who are you?"
"Hi, Leo," said the man. "Hello, Jessica."
"That's him," said Jessica. "That's my angel."
"Michael," said Leo. He was obviously stunned. "I didn't know you were in town."
"Only been here a couple of days," said Michael. He turned to Cole. "Mind if I get
through? There are some things I need to discuss with the Charmed Ones."
Cole stepped to one side and let Michael into the kitchen. The look on his face had
changed. From one of astonishment to one of concern. Or maybe even fear.
"Have we met before?" asked Michael, stopping for a moment to look at Cole. "You
seem familiar to me."
"N . . . no, no, I don't think so," said Cole nervously. "Phoebe, can I see you upstairs
for a minute?"
"Sure, Cole," said Phoebe. "Will you guys be okay?"
"They'll be fine," said Leo. "Michael's a White Lighter."
Phoebe and Cole left the kitchen and Michael took a seat at the table.
"Actually," said Michael, "I'm more than just a White Lighter. I'm a warrior White
Lighter."
"A what?" asked Paige. "I didn't know there was such a thing."
"A few," said Leo. "Michael has more abilities than a normal White Lighter.
Because of that, he is used in a different way than normal White Lighters. It explains
why he brought Jessica here."
"I fight for the side of good," said Michael. "As the Charmed Ones, you're expected
to fight for yourselves. That's why you have your powers. But some good people don't
have any powers. That's where I come in. When they are faced with an opponent they
can't handle, I step in. Sort of like a champion for them."
"Okay," said Piper. "So why bring Jessica here? Are we supposed to protect her
until she learns to use her power?"
"No," said Michael. "Jessicas' parents were killed in a car accident a few weeks ago.
When I discovered what she was, I knew she had to be gotten to some place safe.
Where she can be trained to use her powers for good. I had to make arrangements for
her to go to that place, but I also knew the demons would be after her. So I brought her
here so you can protect her. Until the Guardians arrive."
"The Guardians?" asked Piper.
"They're a special group," explained Leo. "They only take in the most powerful
forces of good. To train them to fight evil. I didn't know you could contact them,
Michael? My understanding is that no one can contact them. They contact us."
"Normally, that's true," said Michael. "But I have, shall we say, certain connections
that most White Lighters don't have. I had to inform the Guardians where the girl was
so they could send someone to get her. They've been looking for her but didn't know
where she was."
"So all we have to do is protect her until these Guardians show up," said Piper.
"Then what? They whisk her away to never never land?"
"Something like that," said Michael. "Once she's with them, she'll be protected from
all evil. When she returns, she'll be a powerful source of power for good. A vanquisher
can actually upset the balance between good and evil if they aren't properly trained.
Jessica is the first in a long line of vanquishers that the demons haven't killed because
they couldn't control her. She has to be protected at all costs."
"Michael, if you're here then that means . . . ," Leos' voice trailed off.
"Malevant is close by, I'm sure," said Michael. "If Mephistan is after Jessica, then
you can bet Malevant is, too. That's why I came back. To help protect Jessica."
"Who's Malevant?" asked Paige.
"A very high level demon," said Leo. "Rumor has it he was often the right hand
demon to the Source. And one of the contenders to replace the Source when he died."
"Which means he'll be coming after us," said Piper, disgust in her voice.
"Word about your destroying the Source has spread quickly," said Michael. "I would
gather that Mephistan isn't quite sure just how much you've recouped from your battle
with him. Otherwise, he would have come himself rather than sending one of his
retrievers to get Jessica. He'll be even more cautious when he learns you destroyed his
messenger."
"Okay," said Piper, "so how long before these Guardians get here?"
"I can't say," said Michael. "They have certain preparations they need to make.
When they're finished, they'll come for Jessica."
"Well," said Piper, "it's not like we haven't had demons in the house before. I
suppose Jessica can stay in our room. Paige, would you mind bunking on the couch for
a couple of nights? I hate to ask but . . . ."
"I guess it will be okay," said Paige. "Only, let's not make this a habit."
"Why don't I get Jessica up to bed?" asked Michael. "She must be tired from her
ordeal. And since she hasn't learned to use her power properly, I'm sure that drained
her as well."
"I'll show them where it is," said Paige. "I have to get some bedding for the sofa,
anyway."
"Honey," said Piper, after the others had left, "why do I get the feeling that there's
some history between Michael and this Malevant?"
"There is," said Leo, sitting down next to her. "Actually, there's more than history.
They're brothers."
"Brothers?" asked Piper. "One's a demon the other's a White Lighter. How can they
be brothers?"
"Michael isn't a White Lighter in the strictest sense of the word," said Leo. "He's like
Paige. His mother was a White Lighter."
"And is father was a demon?" asked Piper. "Just how does that work?"
"Over a hundred years ago," said Leo, "a demon got an idea to create a sort of
super demon. He captured a White Lighter and bound her powers so she couldn't use
them. Then he raped her. The result was Michael and Malevant. One good, one evil.
They've been mortal enemies most of their lives. It's why Michael has more abilities
than a normal White Lighter. He inherited some of the demons' powers but not his
evil."
"Whoa," said Piper. "And I thought our child might have problems. When we decide
to have a child. I can only imagine what kind of upbringing they must have had."
"No one really knows," said Leo. "The demon murdered their mother as soon as
they were born. Then he gave them to a female warlock to raise as evil. When they
were twelve, they ran away. Michael still won't talk about why. No one knows.
Anyway, when they were about twenty five, they both resurfaced. One was Malevant,
working for demons and despising anything human. The other was Michael, a
champion of good."
"Talk about opposite sides of the same coin," said Piper.
"He's handled it very well," said Leo. "Although Malevant and Michael have both
sworn they'll kill each other one day. So far, neither has been able to. I guess they're
just too evenly matched."
"Well, I hope these Guardians get here soon," said Piper. "The sooner Jessica is
out of danger the sooner we can go back to our abnormally normal lives."
Leo just smiled, then kissed his wife.
* * *
Upstairs, Cole grabbed a suitcase and hurriedly began to put clothes into it. Phoebe
walked into the bedroom behind him, totally perplexed.
"What's going on?" she asked.
"I have to get out of here," said Cole.
"Why?" asked Phoebe.
"Michael," said Cole. "He knows who I am. Or at least who I used to be. He and
Belthazor have met. We actually fought once, and I was lucky to escape with my life.
He hasn't recognized me yet, but when he does, he won't hesitate to kill me first and
forget about asking questions. He swore he'd kill Belthazor the first chance he got."
"Why?" asked Phoebe.
Cole related to her Michaels' history as Leo had related it to Piper.
"Apparently," continued Cole, "Michael found a witch who raised him until he was
twenty five. Then she died and he joined the forces of good. He blames me for his
foster mothers' death. He claims I killed her."
"Did you?" asked Phoebe.
"I don't know," said Cole. "That's the worst part of it. I don't remember doing it, but
there were a lot of victims for Belthazor. He never saw me in my human form, which is
why he hasn't recognized me yet. But when he does, and I'm sure that he will, I'm
dead. And without my powers, I won't have any way to protect myself."
"We can protect you," said Phoebe.
"No," said Cole, moving to her. "I don't want to put you in harms way for something I
did eighty years ago. The best thing is for me to leave until he's gone. That way no
one is in danger."
Phoebe walked over to her dresser and opened her purse. She pulled out a wad of
money and walked back to Cole. She pressed the money into his hand.
"It's all I have right now," she said. "When you get to where ever it is you're going,
call me. I'll bring more."
"Thanks for understanding," said Cole.
"I didn't say I understood," said Phoebe. "But I have to trust that you're doing what
you think is best. I'm sure he won't be here long then things can get back to normal."
"I hope so," he said.
Cole took Phoebe in his arms and kissed her long and hard. Then he continued
packing so that he could get out of the manor as quickly as possible.
* * *
"I suppose Leo told you all about me," said Michael at breakfast the next morning.
"Oh, he mentioned a thing or two," said Piper coyly.
The atmosphere seemed more relaxed than it had the night before. Jessica was
eating a bowl of cereal and didn't seem to have a care in the world. Phoebe had told
everyone that Cole needed to go visit a sick friend for a couple of days. And with
demons out looking for Jessica, Piper thought it best if Paige stayed around the house
for the day, so she had called in sick.
"Not much of a secret," said Michael. "Malevant and I have been enemies for a very
long time. I guess he inherited our fathers' evil while I inherited our mothers' goodness.
Actually, it kind of makes sense, in a way."
"Yeah, I guess so," said Phoebe. "I can't imagine what it's like to have a brother or
sister who's your sworn enemy. We've always been so close."
"Well, not always," said Piper, remember how rebellious Phoebe had been in her
younger days.
"It's something I got used to a long time ago," said Michael. "Actually, I stopped
thinking of him as my brother when we were twelve."
"Michael," said Leo self-consciously, "you've never talked about that time. I was just
wondering why? If it's not prying."
"It is prying," said Michael, smiling, "but I'm not offended. Let's just say that some
things happened that caused a change in my brother and myself. We never were very
close, but this drove us even farther apart. I don't really like to talk about it."
"That's okay," said Leo. "I didn't mean to open any old wounds."
"You didn't," said Michael. "And I do appreciate your concern. You're not the first to
ask about that and you probably won't be the last. I just prefer to keep that part of my
life private."
"We understand," said Phoebe. "It's not easy having a secret you can't tell anyone.
Believe me, we know. We're not even allowed to tell anyone we're witches, let alone
the Charmed Ones."
"Which hasn't seemed to stop every demon in creation from finding out," interjected
Paige.
"So," said Piper, trying to change the mood, "any idea how long before these
Guardians arrive?"
"It shouldn't be long," said Michael. "Probably no more than a day or two. I have to
go 'out' for a while, but I'll be back. I know Jessica will be perfectly safe here with the
three of you. It's why I sent her here in the first place."
"I thought you didn't have charges like regular White Lighters?" asked Paige.
"I don't," said Michael. "But there are those who need my help and protection. I like
to check in on them from time to time just to be safe. And they know they can call me
whenever they need me. I just like to let them know I'm still around."
"Are you leaving?" asked Jessica, her mouth full of cereal.
"Jessica, honey," said Piper, "don't talk with your mouth full. It's not polite."
"You're going to make a wonderful mother, Piper," said Michael. He then turned to
Jessica. "Yes, Jessica, I have to leave for just a little bit. But Piper, Phoebe, Paige,
and Leo are going to watch over you until I come back. You have nothing to worry
about."
"When will the gardons come get me?" asked Jessica.
"She knows about them?" asked Leo.
"Yes," said Michael. "I thought it was best if she was prepared for them. Jessica,
they're coming for you soon. Don't worry. Once you go with them, no one will ever be
able to hurt you again. I promise."
"I miss momma," said Jessica suddenly.
"I'm sure she misses you, too, honey," said Phoebe. "But you'll be able to see her
again some day. I promise you that."
"Well," said Michael, "I'd better get going. I shouldn't be gone more than a couple of
hours. I think you're safe for the time being. After the incident with the retriever demon,
the others will be a bit more cautious. They'll want to gauge their advantage before
they try anything else. I'll be back as soon as I can."
Michael orbed out of the kitchen. Leo moved from the sink, where he had been
standing, and took a seat in the chair where Michael had been sitting.
"I hope I didn't upset him," said Leo.
"I don't think you did," said Piper. "I just think it's too painful for him to talk about it.
It is his brother, after all. I can't even imagine how I'd feel if Phoebe or Paige was that
dedicated to destroying me."
"It isn't just his brother Malevant wants to destroy," said Leo. "Malevant despises
anything that is even remotely connected to humanity. He has always refused to even
take his human form for any reason. And even his underlings are forbidden from
assuming human form in his presence. It's even reported that he once destroyed one
who forgot and appeared before him I his human form."
"That's pretty bad," said Paige. "Why is he so down on humanity? Despite the fact
he's a demon, I mean."
"He just does," said Leo. "He once said, or at least this is what I'm told, since
neither of his parents was human, he has no obligation to humanity."
"Not a nice guy, obviously," said Phoebe.
"He is an upper level demon, Phoebe," said Piper. "None of them are nice guys."
"Cole is," said Phoebe defensively.
"Cole is also no longer a demon," offered Leo. "He's fully human. That makes
somewhat of a difference."
"I suppose," said Phoebe.
"Can I watch cartoons?" asked Jessica suddenly. "Momma used to let me watch
cartoons in the mornings. I haven't been able to since she and poppa left."
"Sure, honey," said Piper. "The television is in the living room. And the remote is on
the coffee table. Do you know how to use a remote?"
"Sure," said Jessica, trying to act grownup. "Poppa showed me. He said I was
really smart."
"Of course you are," said Piper, taking Jessicas' hand. "I'll tell you what. I'll go
watch some cartoons with you. Would you like that?"
"Sure, Piper," said Jessica. "Momma used to watch with me. Well, at least some
times she did."
"Well, then," said Piper, "let's go see what's on, shall we?"
Piper and Jessica went into the living room leaving Leo, Phoebe, and Paige in the
kitchen alone. Leo was thinking about what Michael had said. How Piper was going to
make a good mother.
"What do we do now?" asked Paige. "I took the day off to help protect Jessica.
What do we do while we're waiting for these Guardians to show up?"
"Just keep busy," said Phoebe. "Believe me, I'm fully aware of keeping myself busy
during the day. When you don't have a job, there's not much else to do. So all you do
is hang around the house and amuse yourself."
"Great," said Paige. "Maybe there's a book in the library or something. Or maybe I
should go watch cartoons with Piper and Jessica."
"Just take it easy, Paige," said Leo. "Being a Charmed One isn't always about
fighting demons, you know. You're primary responsibility it so protect the innocent.
Some times that means you just sit and wait."
"Thanks," said Paige. "I'll do my best."
She left the kitchen and went upstairs. Phoebe and Leo just looked at each other
and shrugged simultaneously.
* * *
Most of the day had passed uneventfully. No demons attacked, nor did they even
make an appearance. Michael hadn't returned and the Guardians he had promised
had made no appearance. After a couple of hours, Piper had her fill of cartoons. She
decided Jessica would be safe enough in the living room and went into the kitchen.
Leo was in the kitchen washing dishes.
"You're washing dishes." said Piper with total surprise. "What's the occasion?"
"We're married now," said Leo.
"Yeah," said Piper, "for a while. You've never washed dishes before."
"I just thought I'd pitch in some more," said Leo. "You know, sort of start sharing the
housework and all."
"Okay, what are you up to?" asked Piper. "I know you, Leo Wyatt. You always get
extra helpful when you want something."
"I was just thinking about what Michael said," said Leo. "About you being a great
mother. I just think we should talk about it some more. That's all."
"Okay," said Piper. "It seems we have some time on our hands. And you seem to
have given this some serious thought. What exactly is on your mind?"
Just as Leo was about to answer, there was a knock at the back door. Before either
could move to answer it, the door opened and Michael stuck his head in.
"Hey all," he said. "Mind if I come in?"
"Sure," said Piper. "Why didn't you just orb in like Leo always does?"
"I thought this would be a bit more conventional," said Michael, walking in. "Besides,
I didn't want startle anyone and accidentally cause an attack or anything."
"Okay," said Leo. "I guess I can understand that. So, any news on the Guardians
yet?"
"Actually, yes," said Michael, smiling. "They contacted me a bit ago. They've
instructed me to take the girl to meet them. Once they have her, she'll be safe. Then
you can all go back to your lives."
"Finally," said Piper. "She's in the living room. I'll go get Paige and Phoebe. I'm
sure they'll want to say goodbye to her."
"I sure would," said Paige, walking into the kitchen. "She's such a nice little girl. I
hope we can see her again sometime."
"I'm sure you can," said Michael. "The girl is very important. The Guardians will
probably want her to keep in touch with people who are close to her. To make her feel
more comfortable."
"You want me to go with you?" asked Leo. "When you take her to them?"
"No, no," said Michael. "They want me to bring her alone. It's how they work. You
know how secretive they are."
"Yes," said Leo, "I do. Let's go get her. The sooner we get her to the Guardians,
the safer she'll be."
Leo and Piper led Michael into the living room, Paige close behind. Jessica was still
sitting on the sofa watching television. She glanced up a the four of them, smiled, then
went back to watching television.
"Maria," said Paige before anyone else could say anything, "Michael's here to take
you to the Guardians."
"Yes, Maria," said Michael, "they want me to take you to them right away. So that
you'll be safe."
"What are you talking about, Michael?" asked Leo. "Her name's not Maria. You
know that."
"He would if he was Michael," said Paige. "Obviously, he isn't."
Piper reacted instantly. She raised her hands and tried to freeze Michael, or
whoever he was. But instead, the power just passed around him.
"Witch," said Michael. "Your power doesn't work on me. I'll have the girl and no one
will stop me."
He raised his hand and cast a fireball at Paige. Paige orbed out and the fireball
passed harmlessly past her, then she orbed back into the same spot.
"That was rude," she said.
Suddenly, someone orbed into the living room. When he finished orbing, it was
Michael. He stood looking at the other Michael with Leo and Piper.
"Not this time, demon," said Michael. "This child will not fall to the likes of you."
The demon raised his hand and was preparing to cast another fireball, this time at
Michael. Suddenly, Phoebe appeared behind him and jumped into the air and kicked
him along the side of the head. The demon Michael went flying across the room and
his fireball exploded harmlessly on the fireplace.
"Leo," shouted Michael.
He grabbed Jessica by the arm and pushed her to Leo. Leo grabbed Jessica by the
arm and orbed the two out. Piper had no idea where they were, but that was
unimportant at the moment. Jessica would be safe and they had a demon to fight.
The demon regained his feet quickly and turned on the others. A cut covered his
forehead above his right eye and green blood oozed from it. He turned and fired
another fireball at the group.
Everyone except Michael dived for cover. Michael just raised his hand and the
fireball seemed to be absorbed into it. He then drew his hand back and cast it back out.
The fireball was cast from his hand and exploded on the fireplace as the demon dived
for cover.
"A mimic demon," said Michael. "It's been a while since I faced one of your kind.
Someone must be pretty desperate to send one of you into the manor. And
impersonating me. I'm flattered."
"You won't be when Malevant destroys you," said the demon. "I may not have the
girl, but my master will finish you."
"You tell Malevant any time," said Michael.
The demon shuddered and was gone. Almost as quickly, two robed figures simply
appeared in the entryway to the manor. They didn't orb, as Leo and Michael did, nor
did they shimmer, like demons. They just appeared. Piper turned and raised her
hands, ready to destroy these new demons.
"No, don't," said Michael, moving to put himself between the robed figures and
Piper. "These are the Guardian Messengers. They're the ones who are to take Jessica
to the Guardians."
"Oh, okay," said Piper, lowering her hand. "Sorry guys."
"Leo," said Michael into the air.
Leo and Jessica orbed back in.
"Jessica," said Michael, "these two are called Guardian Messengers. They will take
you to the Guardians like I told you. You'll be safe with them."
"Aren't you coming?" asked Jessica.
"Not right now," said Michael. "Perhaps they'll let me visit soon. Just to see how
you're doing."
He looked up at one of the Messengers. The Messenger didn't say a word, but
nodded one indicating he could.
"You have to go with them now," said Michael. "There's no reason to be afraid."
"I'm not afraid," said Jessica. "You're my angel and momma always said that angels
would never hurt me."
"Good," said Michael. "Go with them now and I'll come visit as soon as I can."
Jessica walked over and stood next to the two Messengers. Without a word, the
three of them simply vanished.
"How did you know that wasn't Michael?" asked Leo.
"That's a good question," said Michael. "Mimic demons are usually extremely
difficult to detect."
"I wasn't sure," said Paige. "But when he called Jessica 'the girl' instead of by
name, I was a little suspicious. Michael seemed very fond of Jessica. It just seemed
odd that he would be treating her that way."
"I am very fond of her," said Michael. "She's the daughter I never had."
"Well," said Phoebe, "I don't think he'll be bothering us again. At least not for a
while."
"Probably not again," said Michael. "Malevant doesn't tolerate failure. More than
likely he'll destroy that demon for failing. I think I'd better leave for a while. See if I can
draw Malevant away from you. As long as I stay, you're in danger from him."
"That's nothing new to us," said Piper. "We're sort of used to having demons pop in
uninvited."
"Michaels' probably right," said Leo. "No one knows Malevant as well as he does.
And if Malevant is as powerful as I've been told, he would be a problem even for the
Power of Three."
"He's as powerful as you've been told," said Michael. "He's as powerful as I am. It's
one of the reasons we've never been able to beat each other. It's sort of like fighting
yourself. There can never be a winner really. Not until one of us figures out a way to
gain the upper hand."
"If he's as powerful as you are," said Leo, "then he's extremely dangerous. More
dangerous than even the Source was. And with his hatred of humanity, he won't show
any compassion."
"I'll stop back in a couple of days," said Michael. "Once I've led Malevant away so
you won't be in any undue danger."
Michael smiled once, then orbed out.
"That was interesting," said Piper. "Not one but two demon attacks in one day.
What's next? A demon convention in the living room?"
"We're safe for a bit," said Leo. "Two high level demons have lost powerful
underlings today. Mimic and retrieval demons are really rare demons. That's why they
serve only the most powerful of high level demons. Those demons won't want to risk
any more of their most powerful underlings without regrouping."
"I keep hearing that," said Paige, "but they keep showing up."
"Believe it this time," said Leo. "Besides, both demons were here after Jessica.
Now that she's with the Guardians, they'll have to reevaluate their priorities."
"Okay," said Phoebe, "that sounds good. Well, I think I'll go out for a while. Maybe
catch that movie I missed last night."
"Well," said Paige, "I can still get in half a days' work. Maybe it will make up for my
being late so much lately."
"Piper, honey," said Leo. "I think there was something we were going to talk about
before Michael showed up."
"Yes, I believe you're right," said Piper. "Let's talk while we finish the dishes."
To be continued . . .
Be sure not to miss Part 3: Failure and Betrayal. The mimic demon, Zimlock, learns
the price for failing Malevant and the high level demons plot their next move against the
Charmed Ones.
If you've enjoyed this story, you can find more of my stories for a variety of shows and
subjects at http://pub57.ezboard.com/bjerrysfanfictionsite. You can also post your
stories if you like to write fan fiction.