"I love you, I love my sisters and I love being a witch. I love being one of the Charmed Ones, and having the Power of Three. I wouldn't want to give it away, but I have to … for you, I'll do everything," Piper swore, her hand still caressing Leo's cheek.

"I don't care about defeating the bloody warlocks and demons, you hear that? I want my husband back! And I know you're not going to do anything about it! I don't care any more! Hear that? No more!" Piper shouted, hoping the Elders would hear.

Piper read through the tear-blotched parchment once more. Her hand tightened around the knife she held in her hand. With one swift move, she plunged the knife into Leo's heart. Blood spilled over the clean couch, turning in crimson at first touch.

"Leo," Piper whispered softly. She pulled the curved dagger out. She took a deep breath and began the spell.

My blood on yours

Give you strength

Open life doors

Bring you back

Piper paused and positioned the dagger above her wrist. She made a clean slit on a wrist. Blood spilled out and Piper felt herself getting weaker slowly. She pressed her wrist over Leo's blood.

I trade my soul

Change life places

Achieve my goal

Bring you back

At this, Piper felt a tug. She glanced down at the parchment. It had an extension to it, to make sure the exchange was smooth. She opened her mouth and words tumbled out of it in a slow struggle.

Love is stronger

Power above all

My love shall succeed

And make the call

Trade my life

Trade my soul

Trade my blood

To achieve my goal

When she had uttered the last word, Leo's eyes darted open.

"Piper?" Leo asked, not comprehending his return. Piper nodded and swept her lips against his. In the next second, she fell limp against his arms, dead.

"Piper!" Leo cried. He fingered the damp parchment, and realised with a pang what she had done… sacrificed herself.