CHARMED
REQUIEM FOR A WHITE LIGHTER"
by J. B. Tilton
email: aramath@isot.com
Rating: PG (for mild language)
PART 3: BEST LAID PLANS
The Source sends Leo with a team of demons to destroy the
innocent who's about to give birth. Can the Charmed Ones protect this
innocent until she can give birth? And what do they do about their
former White Lighter who knows enough about them to destroy them?
* * *
ONE
Leo followed the Source and Malevant through the tunnels of the
underworld. The twists and turns were impossible to keep track of.
If not for his guides Leo would have become hopelessly lost.
Eventually, they came to a small cavern.
Inside the cavern waited three demons. Two were humanoid,
vaguely human-like, with red tinted skin and yellow eyes. In the dark
they might even be mistaken for humans. They bowed slightly as the
Source and Malevant entered.
The third demon was far less presentable. This creature stood
about five feet tall. Its' dark yellow skin glistened in the
torchlight. A ridge of sharp spines ran down its' back and similar
spines ran down it's arms from the shoulders to the wrists. The four
fingers of its' hand ended in large, serrated, razor sharp claws. The
creature took one look at Leo and snarled. It took a step toward Leo
when the Source stepped in front of it.
"Rentak, no," commanded the Source. "He is an ally. He is
Promethian. You will not harm him."
The demon looked at the Source than stepped back.
"This is Rentak," the Source said to Leo. "He is a render
demon. A particularly nasty creature that I keep around for special
jobs. They are not terribly bright, I'm afraid, but they are one of
the most vicious of demons."
"Yeah," said Leo, "I've heard of them but I've never seen one."
"If I were not here," said the Source, "he would rip you to
pieces, literally. And he so enjoys his work. I'm sending him after
the young woman. When he is finished with her it will be difficult
even to identify what species she was alone who she was."
"That sounds gruesome," said Leo.
"Does that bother you?" asked Malevant.
"Not at all," said Leo. "Just making an observation."
"Yes," said Malevant, "it is a very gruesome death. And when
word of it gets out, all the forces of good will know that the Source
is not one to be trifled with."
"Very ingenious," said Leo. "Get rid of this woman and her
child and send a message at the same time."
"This woman and her child," said the Source, "pose a great
threat to me. The woman is actually of no consequence. But that
child must never be born."
"I don't understand," said Leo.
"As a former White Lighter," said Malevant, "you are familiar
with a convergence, I assume?"
"Sure," said Leo. "All White Lighters know of a convergence.
It's when certain mystical events converge into a single point in
time. They usually go unnoticed by the mortal realm, but almost all
supernatural beings are aware of it."
"Then you know of the event which normally signifies the
beginning of a convergence," said the Source.
"Ah, I see now," said Leo. "The birth of a child usually
signifies the beginning of a convergence. And this child is that
child?"
"Yes," said Malevant. "In reality, the child itself is as of
little importance as the mother herself. The child will have no
special powers. It is the birth of the child that is of concern
here."
"So you plan to prevent the birth?" asked Leo.
"Exactly," said the Source. "The render demon will kill the
mother before she can give birth. Because of the extreme damage a
render demon causes during its' attack, not even the unborn child will
survive. The birth of the child is the first link in the chain of the
convergence. Without the birth of the child, the convergence will
never come to pass."
"Very clever," said Leo, smiling.
"Now that the witch is out of the way," said Malevant, "we only
have to send the render to the woman. She will die a horrible death,
the convergence will not occur, and the forces of good see the message
we are sending. All in one fluid motion."
"Among the White Lighters," said Leo, "it is rumored that
Malevant is a master at planning. I can see that your reputation is
very well deserved."
"Yes," said the Source. "Since Malevant has become my advisor I
have been very pleased with his advice. I wish I could be as
complimentary of many of my subordinates."
"I know what you mean," said Leo. "Before I realized how much I
was being used by the Elders I often wondered why they kept some of
the White Lighters around. Some of them are less than efficient at
what they're supposed to do."
"Yes," said Source. "It took the overwhelming power of the
Charmed Ones to make you come to your senses."
"What do you mean?" asked Leo.
"Have you never wondered why certain White Lighters should
suddenly turn from the Elders?" asked the Source. "As you recently
did?"
"I just assumed they were like me," said Leo. "After several
years they finally wised up. Saw that they were being used by the
Elders and decided it was time to get in on the action themselves, so
to speak."
"I suppose that's one way of looking at it," said the Source.
"Actually, it has more to do with the overpowering magic of certain
powerful witches on an inexperienced White Lighter. Every witch is
surrounded by power. The more powerful the witch the greater the
magic.
"In some instances, if his or her White Lighter is not
sufficiently experienced, that magic will overwhelm them. It causes
them to doubt everything they believe in. Allows them to make the
more logical choice of serving evil."
"I never knew that," said Leo. "It doesn't really matter,
though. What does matter is that I finally came to my senses."
"I was not aware of the reason, either," said Malevant. "As I
said, it has been such a long time since a White Lighter turned. "
"Now," said the Source, "Wyatt, I'm sending you with the render
and the others. I want you to get firsthand knowledge the way a
render demon works. It can be quite educational."
"I can imagine," said Leo. "When do we leave?"
"Immediately," said Malevant. "The witch is dead and it won't
take the accursed Elders long to send another one to protect her. So
we're going to move immediately to take out the woman before that
happens."
"Panish and Telk are going along," said the Source. "They will
help in case another witch has already been sent. They will keep the
witch busy while the render deals with the woman."
"And I'm just supposed to watch?" asked Leo.
"Not necessarily," said Malevant. "If another witch has been
appointed, she will undoubtedly have a White Lighter with her. You
can keep the White Lighter busy while the others do their job. That
will keep the White Lighter from healing either the witch or the
woman."
"Okay," said Leo. "I'm glad to do whatever I can."
"Here," said Malevant, handing a dagger to Leo. "This won't be
able to kill a White Lighter, but it can hurt him or her. Enough to
keep them from using that nasty healing ability of theirs."
"Good plan," said Leo. "I'm looking forward to it."
"Then it's time to get going," said Malevant. "Return here when
you've finished. Then we can start putting your knowledge to good
use."
Leo and the other demons left the cavern for the woman's'
apartment. Malevant and the Source began to make plans for what Leo
knew about the forces of good and the Charmed Ones in particular.
TWO
When Leo and the demons appeared in the woman's apartment, it
was dark. She apparently had already gone to bed because they could
see her lying in the bed covered up. The demons looked around for any
sign that anyone else was present. It appeared she was quite alone.
"It seems we have arrived in time," said the demon named Panish.
"That will make our job much easier. Rentak, the woman is all yours.
Do as the master has commanded you. See that she is destroyed as he
wishes."
The render demon moved toward the bed. It hesitated by the bed
a moment, savoring its attack. Then it reached down and pulled the
blankets from the sleeping figure. The fear it always instilled in
its' victims always made the kill just that much more enjoyable.
"Hello short, dark, and ugly," said Prue Halliwell from the bed.
"I'm afraid we'll have to disappoint you this time."
Prue swung out using her telekinetic ability. The render demon
was cast back, striking the apartment wall, and then falling to the
floor. As Prue got up from the bed, Piper and Andrew stepped out of
the bathroom. At the same time, Jason and Phoebe orbed into the
bedroom.
"Charmed Ones," hissed the demon called Telk. "It is a trap.
We've been set up."
"You bet you have," said Piper. "If you were a little smarter
you might have realized that before you came in here."
Piper raised her hands and Telk froze, tapped in her freezing
ability. Leo and Panish dived away, barely able to escape the effects
of the power. As Panish rose to his feet, Phoebe kicked out, striking
the demon along the side of his head, sending him sprawling against
the same wall as Rentak. Phoebe moved next to Prue and the two
sisters stood facing the demons in a defensive stance.
Piper and turned to face Leo and Panish. Piper froze for a
moment when she saw Leo. It was the first time she had seen him since
he had turned. Somewhere, deep inside her, a small voice told her
that just maybe Leo could be turned back.
"Leo," said Andrew, "it's me, Andrew. Leo, I can't believe
you've turned. Come back to us, Leo. The Elders will still accept
you back. We can help you."
"Leo, listen to him," pleaded Piper. "It's not too late. You
can still be the White Lighter I fell in love with."
"Witch," spat out Panish, "he's no longer your White Lighter.
He's now Promethian. Promethians never turn to good. Surely your
White Lighter friends told you that."
"I'm sorry, Piper," said Leo. "I said all I had to say the last
time we talked. I'm finished with being used by the Elders. And by
you and your sisters. I'm where I belong now."
Leo reached into his belt and pulled out the dagger Malevant had
given him. He raised it and threw it directly at Piper. But his aim
was off. Piper simply ducked and the dagger sailed past her, burying
itself in the wall behind her.
The render demon began its' attack anew. Instead of going after
Prue again, it turned on Phoebe. It struck out with one of it's
clawed hands, raking across Phoebe's chest. It cut gashes in Phoebes'
chest as she tried to avoid the claws.
Prue raised her hand again and sent the demon sprawling back
against the same wall it had been cast against before. It stood up
and shook its' head. Jason moved up to Phoebe and put his hand over
her chest. He used his healing power and within seconds Phoebe's
wounds were completely healed.
Piper looked at Leo. A single tear fell from her eye. If he
could try to kill her, then there was absolutely no doubt in her mind
any longer. Her Leo was gone forever. She reached into her pocket
and pulled out a slip of paper. She turned to Leo and started to read
from the paper.
Before she could speak the first word, Telk tackled her from the
side. Her freezing of him had worn off and he obviously realized that
Piper was about to recite a spell. As the two of them tumbled to the
floor, the paper Piper had been holding flew out of her hands.
The render demon struck out with its' clawed hand again but
missed Prue. She used her telekinetic ability again sending him once
more against the wall. Phoebe stepped back a couple of steps and
closed her eyes. As the render demon started to rise, she opened her
eyes.
As Jason and Prue watched, Phoebe recited a spell that caused
the render demon to suddenly explode into flames. It howled in agony
as the flames consumed it, then extinguished taking the demon with
them.
Prue turned to face the remaining two demons. Piper had rolled
away from Telk and was starting to rise to her feet. She looked
around desperately for the paper with the vanquishing spell on it but
couldn't see it anywhere. Prue raised her hand, calling once more on
her telekinetic ability.
The dagger buried in the wall suddenly freed itself, and then
turned and struck Panish in the chest. It buried itself up to the
hilt. The demon howled and pain as it exploded into a thousand shards
that evaporated instantly.
"Let's get out of her," said Telk to Leo.
He didn't wait for Leo. The demon shimmered out of the bedroom,
leaving Leo alone. Leo looked once at Piper, then orbed out of the
bedroom. Everyone looked around feeling relieved that the ordeal was
over.
"Good spell, sis," Prue said to Phoebe. "That thing didn't seem
to be affected too much by my telekinetic ability."
"Not a problem," said Phoebe. "I didn't have time to write a
spell specifically for it. So I just used one I wrote a few months
ago. I modified it a little bit and just got lucky that it worked."
"We're lucky you did," said Jason. "That was a render demon.
Very dumb but also one of the most dangerous demons. That's because
it is a virtual killing machine. It wouldn't have stopped until we or
it was dead."
"Are you okay?" Andrew asked Piper.
"Yeah," said Piper, wiping a tear away. "Only I didn't get a
chance to take out Leo. That damn demon made me drop the spell."
"It's okay, sweetie," said Prue. "You're okay and that's all
that's important. Jason, what about Jasmine? Is she okay?"
Jason concentrated for a moment.
"Yes," he said. "She's at the hospital right now. Seems she
went into labor about ten minutes ago. The White Lighter assigned to
her orbed her to the hospital as soon as her contractions began."
"Great," said Prue. "Well, the innocent has been saved, the
demons have been defeated, and we're all relatively unharmed."
"Speak for yourself," said Phoebe, scratching her chest. "Jason
may have healed the damage caused by that render thing, but now it
itches like crazy."
"A side effect of the healing," said Jason. "Sometimes the
healing doesn't heal all of the deep down damage. You're not in any
danger and your body's natural healing processes will take care of the
rest. But until then, you'll just have to put up with a little
itching. It should go away in a few hours."
"Gee, thanks," said Phoebe.
"Let's get back to the manor," said Jason. "Our work is done
here and we still have Leo to worry about."
"I'm being summoned," said Andrew, suddenly. "I'll try to join
you later at the manor. They probably have another charge for me to
check out."
"A White Lighter's work is never done," said Prue.
Andrew orbed out. The sisters linked arms with Jason and orbed
back to the manor. Prue and Phoebe noticed that Piper was being
unusually quiet. Considering what had just happened, they weren't
very surprised.
THREE
Malevant slammed his fist onto a stone table so hard that the
table shattered under the impact. Telk stood before his master with
his head bowed, trembling from fear. Failing Malevant usually meant
vanquishing for the demon in question.
Leo stood next to Telk eyeing Malevant suspiciously. He had
always heard that Malevant destroyed those underlings who failed him
instantly. But they had been back nearly five minutes and Malevant
hadn't so much as raised a hand against either Telk or Leo.
"Those accursed Charmed Ones," howled Malevant. "Every time we
turn around they are there standing in our way."
Just then the Source flamed into the chamber. He stood in front
of Malevant.
"They failed," hissed the Source. "I have just received word
that the child was born a matter of moments ago. Malevant, what
happened? The plan was perfect. The woman should have died."
"The Charmed Ones," hissed Malevant. "Telk and Wyatt just
returned and informed me of what happened. The Charmed Ones were
waiting for them when they arrived. They were taken totally by
surprise. And there were two White Lighters with them. Both Panish
and Rentak have been vanquished. These two were lucky to escape with
their lives."
"I'm surprised, Malevant," said the Source. "Telk is still
alive. I thought you didn't tolerate failure in an underling?"
"I don't," said Malevant. "But Telk is your underling, not
mine. His offense would have to be much greater before I would
vanquish one of your underlings without your permission."
"What about me?" asked Leo.
"You are new here," said Malevant. "I am not totally without
tolerance. Besides, you were sent as an observer, not as a combatant.
You observed. Therefore, you didn't fail me. This time."
"The Charmed Ones," the Source echoed. "Always it is the
Charmed Ones who stand in our way. Curse the day that youngest sister
opened that accursed book. If not for that, we would not have those
three to worry about."
"It cannot be undone," said Malevant. "Much as we would want
to."
"What about the child?" asked Leo. "Can't we send someone in to
kill the child? I could orb in and pretend to be a doctor. I was a
medic before I died. I could fake my way enough to get close to the
child."
"It makes no difference now," said the Source. "As we told you,
it's not the child we were after. It was the child's birth. Now that
the birth has taken place, it would serve no purpose to kill either
the mother or the child."
"The Source speaks the truth," said Malevant. "We will have to
contend ourselves with the next link in the chain. The next sign of
the convergence. If we can prevent that, the chain may still be
broken."
"Unless," said the Source thoughtfully.
"What is it, my liege?" asked Malevant. "You have an idea?"
"Yes," said the Source. "We have been so concerned with the
signs of the convergence we have been ignoring something a bit more
basic."
"And what would that be?" asked Malevant.
"The Charmed Ones," said the Source. "The Seer has told me that
this convergence foretells of my destruction by the Charmed Ones.
Which is the reason we have been trying so desperately to prevent
convergence."
"I know," said Malevant. "What else can we do?"
"We can remove the reason for the convergence," said the Source.
"We could see if the Seer can locate another sigh of the convergence.
Or we can remove the one obstacle that is the reason for the
convergence in the first place."
"Go after the Charmed Ones?" questioned Malevant. "Is that
wise? We've just several valuable underlings to the Charmed Ones. Do
you think it's wise to try and go after them directly?"
"Can you think of anything better?" asked the Source. "With one
of your plans and the right underlings, we should be able to take out
the Charmed Ones. We only have to kill one to break the Power of
Three."
"It does have the merit of being bold and original," said
Malevant. "But we are talking about the Charmed Ones, not some
ordinary witch. The plan will have to be carefully planned. And the
underlings will have to be absolutely trustworthy. We can ill afford
to have them turn tail and run in the middle of a fight."
"You worry about the plan, Malevant," said the Source. "I will
concern myself with the demons I send. How long will it take you to
prepare a plan?"
"I will have to give it some serious consideration," said
Malevant. "This is going to be a very delicate matter. I will need
at least a few hours."
"I need it as soon as possible," said the Source. He looked
over at Leo and Telk. "Include the Promethian in your plan. I'm sure
he would be happy to help us eliminate his former charges."
"My pleasure," said Leo. "I missed my chance before. I'd like
the chance to make up for it."
"Very well," said Malevant. "Source, I will let you know when I
have a plan ready. Choose those who will go carefully. And I think I
may have a way to take out one of the Charmed Ones quickly and easily.
I will let you know when all the preparations have been made."
Malevant shimmered out of the cavern. The Source turned to Leo
and Telk.
"Well," he said, "it seems that in a very short time we shall be
rid of the Charmed Ones forever. This will be a great day for the
underworld. And for me personally. Promethian, once the Charmed Ones
are dealt with, you and I shall have a chat. And you will tell me all
that you know regarding your other charges and anything else you know
from your former White Lighter days."
FOUR
"Jasmine is fine," said Jason, orbing in from the hospital. "So
is the baby. She had a beautiful, perfect baby girl. Mother and
daughter are doing great and will be released from the hospital in a
couple of days."
"Great," said Prue. "What about protection for them? Won't the
demons try to get to Jasmine again?"
"No," said Jason. "Neither Jasmine nor the baby were a threat
to any demon. It was the baby's birth that was a threat. It was the
first sign of a convergence. Since the baby has already been born,
the threat is now passed."
"A convergence?" asked Phoebe. "What's that?"
"Every so often," said Jason, "there is a sort of watershed
event in the magical world. These are called convergences. For a
time before the convergence happens, there are specific signs that
indicate it's going to take place. These signs are sometimes known,
sometimes they aren't."
"So are these convergences good or evil?" asked Phoebe.
"They can be either," said Jason. "The last one was back in
1935. The convergence was World War II."
"That's when Leo died," interjected Piper.
"Yes," said Jason. "In this case, the Elders aren't sure just
exactly what the convergence is going to be. It could happen in the
next few weeks or it could take months or even years. All we can do
is wait for the signs to appear."
"So, what do we do now?" asked Phoebe. "Jasmine and her baby
are safe. But we still have Leo to worry about. He's still out there
and you said he would be coming after us sooner or later."
"Yes," said Jason. "I'm afraid that's true. It's only a matter
of time before he comes after you. Probably not right away, though.
Whatever demon Leo has joined up with will want to learn everything he
can about you first. Learn your strengths and weaknesses to better
prepare himself."
"You said he'd go after his other charges first," said Piper.
"Any idea who he'll go after first?"
"Probably the weakest one," said Jason. "To build up to you.
And like I said, he won't be coming alone. Eventually, the demon will
give him additional powers and abilities beyond his White Lighter
abilities. But that won't be for a while. Even though he's a
Promethian, the demon will want to make sure he won't desert him for
some other demon."
"Jason," said Piper, "how many White Lighters have turned in the
past?"
"I'm not exactly sure," said Jason. "It's not something the
Elders are very eager to talk about, as I'm sure you can understand.
Somewhere between seven and eleven as far as anyone can determine."
"And none of them have ever turned back?" asked Piper.
"No, they haven't," said Jason. "Piper, I know this is very
hard on you. And I know you'd like to believe that you could somehow
turn Leo back. But it's just not going to happen. Promethians never
turn back to good."
"Might as well expect a demon to become good over the love of a
woman," said Phoebe.
"I'm not expecting to turn him back," said Piper. "He tried to
kill me at Jasmine's place. The Leo I know would never have tried
that. That Leo is gone. I've accepted that. I was just curious how
many have turned before, that's all."
"Maybe we should try to help Leo's other charges," suggested
Prue. "We've already proven that we can handle ourselves against the
demons. We might be able to help protect some of those charges."
"No," said Jason, "that won't be possible. For one thing, you
can't just ignore your responsibility to the innocents who are
counting on you. For another, there's no way of know when he'll go
after them or which one it will be."
"Okay," said Prue. "I guess all we can do is wait until
something happens."
"That's about the size of it," said Jason. "The Elders will be
appointing a replacement for Leo soon to be your new White Lighter.
Once he or she is appointed, I'll move onto another assignment."
"What about you?" asked Phoebe. "We've already gotten to know
you. We've even fought demons with you. It seems to me the best
course of action would be to just make your our new White Lighter."
"Well," said Jason, "I'm sure the Elders will take that into
consideration. But they do have other things to take into
consideration. They may decide that I would be of better use
somewhere else."
"Don't we get a say in this?" asked Prue.
"I can't really say," said Jason. "To my knowledge, something
like this has never come up before. Most White Lighters outlive their
charges, not the other way around."
"Listen," said Prue, "you tell the Elders that we risk our lives
every day protecting the innocent. On top of which we're the Charmed
Ones, not just some witches who have banded together. I don't think
it's too much to ask to let us have a say in who our White Lighter is.
You tell the Elders that we want you as our White Lighter."
"I'll pass that on to them," said Jason. "I'm sure when they
learn you feel so strongly about it they'll give your request some
serious consideration."
"It's not a request," said Prue. "We're insisting. After
everything we've been through, we've earned it. And considering that
Piper is going to have to help in vanquishing the man she loves, you
tell the Elders if they say no, they're going to hear about it."
"Okay, okay," said Jason, "I'm convinced. I'll tell them. I'm
not sure how they're going to react, but I'll tell them that you're
insisting."
"Good," said Phoebe. "Now, I'd better hit the books. I have a
psych test coming up and I'm way behind on my studying."
"Good luck," said Jason.
"Thanks," said Phoebe. "I need to bring my grade up if I want
to keep my G.P.A for the semester."
Phoebe left the kitchen and headed for her room leaving the
others still gathered around the table.
FIVE
Malevant strode into the Source's chamber, Melnar and Telk close
behind. The Source stood in the center of the chamber, Leo at his
side. Three other demons stood off to one side, waiting for
instructions from their master.
"Malevant," said the Source, "you said you have a plan. I have
gathered Losh, Torrick, and Kelnan as you requested. And I see you've
brought Melnar and Telk with you. I assume they are all involved in
this plan of yours."
"As is the Promethian," said Malevant. "But for my plan to
work, we will have need of a particularly rare weapon. One which only
you, Source, have access to. In order for my plan to work, we will
need that weapon."
"There are a few weapons which could be in that category," said
the Source. "You'll have to be a bit more specific."
Malevant eyed the Source. Getting these types of weapons from
the Source was very difficult. He was a very cautious demon. But
Malevant was sure that, in this case, the Source would agree.
"An obsidian blade," said Malevant, finally.
The Source looked at Malevant. The obsidian blade was an
ancient weapon. It was how the Source himself had finally come to
power. Only one was known to still exist and the Source kept it
locked securely away where no one could get to it but him.
"You are aware of the danger of putting the obsidian blade in
the hands of an underling," said the Source. "The power of that blade
is unmatched by almost any other weapon. If I am to release that
blade, I must have a very good reason."
"Once I explain my plan," said Malevant, "I'm sure you'll agree
the risk is worth it."
"Very well," said the Source. "I will listen to your plan
before I make my determination."
"That is all I ask," said Malevant. "The first part of the plan
is quite simple. Losh, Torrick, Kelnan, and Melnar will shimmer into
the Charmed Ones manor. Their mission is quite simple. They are to
attack the Charmed Ones."
"That is a risky plan," said the Source. "Attacking the Charmed Ones
in their home where they are most powerful is dangerous. Even at four
against three they would be at a disadvantage."
"I know," said Malevant. "I do not expect them to defeat the
Charmed Ones. That is not the purpose of their attack. They are only
to delay the Charmed Ones and keep them occupied."
"And that is where the others come in?" asked the Source.
"Precisely," said Malevant. "A few minutes after they engage
the Charmed Ones, Telk and Wyatt will enter the manor. That is where
the obsidian blade comes into play. Wyatt will have the blade. While
the Charmed Ones are engaged fighting the four we send after them, he
can use it to kill one of the sisters. Once he does that, the other
two will be powerless and the demons can finish them off."
The Source looked at Malevant. Then he looked at Leo. He
didn't speak for a moment. He pulled Malevant aside where the others
couldn't hear them speak.
"And if the Promethian tries to use the blade to take control of
the underworld?" asked the Source.
"When they return here," said Malevant, "you and I will have a
dozen demons here for protection. And I will make sure that we have
four Dark Lighters present as well. Even if he should try, he won't
live long enough to reach either of us."
The Source laughed.
"Excellent," he said. "With the obsidian blade not even the
Charmed Ones can hope to stand against five demons. And with them out
of the way there will be no witch strong enough to stand against me.
You are right, Malevant. The rewards are well worth the risk of using
the blade."
"I thought you might see it my way," said Malevant. "I suggest
we send them in the first thing in the morning. They know that Wyatt
will be coming after them eventually, but Promethians rarely move
against their former charges so quickly. The attack will take them
completely by surprise."
"Yes," said the Source. The two turned back to the demons. "I
agree with Malevants' plan. Return here in the morning. I will have
the obsidian blade then. Once you have the blade, you will move
against the Charmed Ones and put them out of our way once and for
all."
The Source turned and left the chamber. His underlings
followed. Malevant and his two underlings shimmered away. Leo was
left in the chamber alone. He returned to the chamber the Source had
provided for him as quarters. In the morning, he would learn about
the plan to rid the world of the Charmed Ones forever.
Leo was already in the great chamber when the Source, Malevant,
and the other demons shimmered in. The Source was holding a dagger
with a serrated blade. The blade was at least eight inches long and
was inscribed with ancient glyphs and runes. Leo also noticed four
Dark Lighters in the chamber, each with their crossbows. They were
there, he knew, for him should he prove a threat. The Source handed
the blade to Malevant, who then walked over to Leo.
"This is the obsidian blade," announced Malevant. "Few weapons
are as powerful, or as dangerous, as this blade. Its' enchantment is
ancient. More ancient than even most demons. With this blade, any
creature can be killed.
"Promethian, you will take the blade with you during the attack.
Losh, Torrick, Kelnan, and Melnar will shimmer into the manor first.
They will, of course, be detected immediately. And, I have no doubt,
the Charmed Ones will attack immediately. Do not hold back on your
attacks. Attack with all the ferocity in you. The Charmed Ones must
be fully engaged in combat with you before Melnar and Wyatt enter the
manor.
"Wyatt, once inside the manor you will use this blade against
the Charmed Ones. I want you to kill the middle sister first. You do
not have to strike deep with the blade for it to be effective. In
fact, even a minor wound will be sufficient. When an obsidian blade
draws blood, the victim dies instantly. Not ever their White Lighter
will be able to heal her. All you need do is scratch her with it for
your job to be complete."
"That's a very powerful weapon," said Leo.
"Which is why only I have access to it," said the Source. "Not
even Malevant nor myself can resist the power of that blade. Once you
have killed the witch, her sisters will loose their powers. The Power
of Three will be broken and the demons can finish them off."
"If possible," said Malevant, "kill their White Lighter also.
This blade is powerful enough to kill even a White Lighter." He
handed the blade to Leo. "Take care not to cut yourself with it,
Promethian. The effects would be most unfortunate."
Leo reached out and grasped the handle of the dagger. As he
did, he saw the four Dark Lighters shifted position, aiming their
crossbows directly at him. He took the blade and looked at the
inscriptions on it.
"What's the matter?" asked Leo with a smile. "Afraid I might
try to take over with this thing?"
"Just a precaution," said Malevant. "Once the Charmed Ones are
dead, return the blade here. The Source will lock it away again where
it can do no damage. And once the Charmed Ones are no more, I'm sure
we will be able to find some suitable reward for your services.
Perhaps some power more useful to your new profession than simply
orbing."
"That would be nice," said Leo. "Since my healing powers won't
work on a demon or myself, it will pretty much go to waste. It would
be nice to be able to do more than just orb around and pass out
information."
"Complete this task," said the Source, "and I promise you
greater power."
"It is time," said Malevant. "The Charmed Ones will not be
expecting an attack on them so quickly. Losh, take Torrick, Kelnan,
and Melnar and shimmer to the Charmed Ones manor immediately. Telk
and Wyatt will follow in a moment or two, giving you time to fully
engage them. Do not let up on your attacks once they arrive. Their
attention must be fully on you so that they do not notice Wyatt orb
in."
"As you wish," said Losh.
He and the three other demons shimmered out, leaving Melnar,
Leo, Malevant, and the Source alone in the chamber. No one spoke.
They stood there for several minutes, giving the four demons enough
time to begin the final battle with the Charmed Ones.
"Go," ordered Malevant finally. "By now the battle is in full
pitch. Remember, Promethian, you have but to scratch the sister to
accomplish your goal. Do not fail me."
"Don't worry," said Leo. "I know what I have to do."
With that, Telk and Leo left the great chamber for the manor.
"Finally," said the Source, "I shall be rid of those accursed
Charmed Ones forever. This is a great day, Malevant. We must think
of a suitable reward for the Promethian. Rarely has a turned White
Lighter shown such enthusiasm for destroying his previous charges."
"Yes," said Malevant. "He will make an impressive ally to our
ranks."
The two waited in the chamber for the others to return,
announcing the death of their most hated enemies.
To be continued . . .
Be sure not to miss the exciting conclusion in Part 4:
Loyalties. The Source has sent five demons to destroy the Charmed
Ones. And provided Leo with the means necessary to destroy them
instantly. Will the sisters be able to stop his plans and protect
themselves? Or will the one person sworn to help and protect them
destroy the greatest protectors of good the world has known?
If you've enjoyed this story, you can find more "Charmed"
stories at my website, www.geocities.com/killeenmale/ . You can also
post your own "Charmed" stories if you like to write fan fiction.
REQUIEM FOR A WHITE LIGHTER"
by J. B. Tilton
email: aramath@isot.com
Rating: PG (for mild language)
PART 3: BEST LAID PLANS
The Source sends Leo with a team of demons to destroy the
innocent who's about to give birth. Can the Charmed Ones protect this
innocent until she can give birth? And what do they do about their
former White Lighter who knows enough about them to destroy them?
* * *
ONE
Leo followed the Source and Malevant through the tunnels of the
underworld. The twists and turns were impossible to keep track of.
If not for his guides Leo would have become hopelessly lost.
Eventually, they came to a small cavern.
Inside the cavern waited three demons. Two were humanoid,
vaguely human-like, with red tinted skin and yellow eyes. In the dark
they might even be mistaken for humans. They bowed slightly as the
Source and Malevant entered.
The third demon was far less presentable. This creature stood
about five feet tall. Its' dark yellow skin glistened in the
torchlight. A ridge of sharp spines ran down its' back and similar
spines ran down it's arms from the shoulders to the wrists. The four
fingers of its' hand ended in large, serrated, razor sharp claws. The
creature took one look at Leo and snarled. It took a step toward Leo
when the Source stepped in front of it.
"Rentak, no," commanded the Source. "He is an ally. He is
Promethian. You will not harm him."
The demon looked at the Source than stepped back.
"This is Rentak," the Source said to Leo. "He is a render
demon. A particularly nasty creature that I keep around for special
jobs. They are not terribly bright, I'm afraid, but they are one of
the most vicious of demons."
"Yeah," said Leo, "I've heard of them but I've never seen one."
"If I were not here," said the Source, "he would rip you to
pieces, literally. And he so enjoys his work. I'm sending him after
the young woman. When he is finished with her it will be difficult
even to identify what species she was alone who she was."
"That sounds gruesome," said Leo.
"Does that bother you?" asked Malevant.
"Not at all," said Leo. "Just making an observation."
"Yes," said Malevant, "it is a very gruesome death. And when
word of it gets out, all the forces of good will know that the Source
is not one to be trifled with."
"Very ingenious," said Leo. "Get rid of this woman and her
child and send a message at the same time."
"This woman and her child," said the Source, "pose a great
threat to me. The woman is actually of no consequence. But that
child must never be born."
"I don't understand," said Leo.
"As a former White Lighter," said Malevant, "you are familiar
with a convergence, I assume?"
"Sure," said Leo. "All White Lighters know of a convergence.
It's when certain mystical events converge into a single point in
time. They usually go unnoticed by the mortal realm, but almost all
supernatural beings are aware of it."
"Then you know of the event which normally signifies the
beginning of a convergence," said the Source.
"Ah, I see now," said Leo. "The birth of a child usually
signifies the beginning of a convergence. And this child is that
child?"
"Yes," said Malevant. "In reality, the child itself is as of
little importance as the mother herself. The child will have no
special powers. It is the birth of the child that is of concern
here."
"So you plan to prevent the birth?" asked Leo.
"Exactly," said the Source. "The render demon will kill the
mother before she can give birth. Because of the extreme damage a
render demon causes during its' attack, not even the unborn child will
survive. The birth of the child is the first link in the chain of the
convergence. Without the birth of the child, the convergence will
never come to pass."
"Very clever," said Leo, smiling.
"Now that the witch is out of the way," said Malevant, "we only
have to send the render to the woman. She will die a horrible death,
the convergence will not occur, and the forces of good see the message
we are sending. All in one fluid motion."
"Among the White Lighters," said Leo, "it is rumored that
Malevant is a master at planning. I can see that your reputation is
very well deserved."
"Yes," said the Source. "Since Malevant has become my advisor I
have been very pleased with his advice. I wish I could be as
complimentary of many of my subordinates."
"I know what you mean," said Leo. "Before I realized how much I
was being used by the Elders I often wondered why they kept some of
the White Lighters around. Some of them are less than efficient at
what they're supposed to do."
"Yes," said Source. "It took the overwhelming power of the
Charmed Ones to make you come to your senses."
"What do you mean?" asked Leo.
"Have you never wondered why certain White Lighters should
suddenly turn from the Elders?" asked the Source. "As you recently
did?"
"I just assumed they were like me," said Leo. "After several
years they finally wised up. Saw that they were being used by the
Elders and decided it was time to get in on the action themselves, so
to speak."
"I suppose that's one way of looking at it," said the Source.
"Actually, it has more to do with the overpowering magic of certain
powerful witches on an inexperienced White Lighter. Every witch is
surrounded by power. The more powerful the witch the greater the
magic.
"In some instances, if his or her White Lighter is not
sufficiently experienced, that magic will overwhelm them. It causes
them to doubt everything they believe in. Allows them to make the
more logical choice of serving evil."
"I never knew that," said Leo. "It doesn't really matter,
though. What does matter is that I finally came to my senses."
"I was not aware of the reason, either," said Malevant. "As I
said, it has been such a long time since a White Lighter turned. "
"Now," said the Source, "Wyatt, I'm sending you with the render
and the others. I want you to get firsthand knowledge the way a
render demon works. It can be quite educational."
"I can imagine," said Leo. "When do we leave?"
"Immediately," said Malevant. "The witch is dead and it won't
take the accursed Elders long to send another one to protect her. So
we're going to move immediately to take out the woman before that
happens."
"Panish and Telk are going along," said the Source. "They will
help in case another witch has already been sent. They will keep the
witch busy while the render deals with the woman."
"And I'm just supposed to watch?" asked Leo.
"Not necessarily," said Malevant. "If another witch has been
appointed, she will undoubtedly have a White Lighter with her. You
can keep the White Lighter busy while the others do their job. That
will keep the White Lighter from healing either the witch or the
woman."
"Okay," said Leo. "I'm glad to do whatever I can."
"Here," said Malevant, handing a dagger to Leo. "This won't be
able to kill a White Lighter, but it can hurt him or her. Enough to
keep them from using that nasty healing ability of theirs."
"Good plan," said Leo. "I'm looking forward to it."
"Then it's time to get going," said Malevant. "Return here when
you've finished. Then we can start putting your knowledge to good
use."
Leo and the other demons left the cavern for the woman's'
apartment. Malevant and the Source began to make plans for what Leo
knew about the forces of good and the Charmed Ones in particular.
TWO
When Leo and the demons appeared in the woman's apartment, it
was dark. She apparently had already gone to bed because they could
see her lying in the bed covered up. The demons looked around for any
sign that anyone else was present. It appeared she was quite alone.
"It seems we have arrived in time," said the demon named Panish.
"That will make our job much easier. Rentak, the woman is all yours.
Do as the master has commanded you. See that she is destroyed as he
wishes."
The render demon moved toward the bed. It hesitated by the bed
a moment, savoring its attack. Then it reached down and pulled the
blankets from the sleeping figure. The fear it always instilled in
its' victims always made the kill just that much more enjoyable.
"Hello short, dark, and ugly," said Prue Halliwell from the bed.
"I'm afraid we'll have to disappoint you this time."
Prue swung out using her telekinetic ability. The render demon
was cast back, striking the apartment wall, and then falling to the
floor. As Prue got up from the bed, Piper and Andrew stepped out of
the bathroom. At the same time, Jason and Phoebe orbed into the
bedroom.
"Charmed Ones," hissed the demon called Telk. "It is a trap.
We've been set up."
"You bet you have," said Piper. "If you were a little smarter
you might have realized that before you came in here."
Piper raised her hands and Telk froze, tapped in her freezing
ability. Leo and Panish dived away, barely able to escape the effects
of the power. As Panish rose to his feet, Phoebe kicked out, striking
the demon along the side of his head, sending him sprawling against
the same wall as Rentak. Phoebe moved next to Prue and the two
sisters stood facing the demons in a defensive stance.
Piper and turned to face Leo and Panish. Piper froze for a
moment when she saw Leo. It was the first time she had seen him since
he had turned. Somewhere, deep inside her, a small voice told her
that just maybe Leo could be turned back.
"Leo," said Andrew, "it's me, Andrew. Leo, I can't believe
you've turned. Come back to us, Leo. The Elders will still accept
you back. We can help you."
"Leo, listen to him," pleaded Piper. "It's not too late. You
can still be the White Lighter I fell in love with."
"Witch," spat out Panish, "he's no longer your White Lighter.
He's now Promethian. Promethians never turn to good. Surely your
White Lighter friends told you that."
"I'm sorry, Piper," said Leo. "I said all I had to say the last
time we talked. I'm finished with being used by the Elders. And by
you and your sisters. I'm where I belong now."
Leo reached into his belt and pulled out the dagger Malevant had
given him. He raised it and threw it directly at Piper. But his aim
was off. Piper simply ducked and the dagger sailed past her, burying
itself in the wall behind her.
The render demon began its' attack anew. Instead of going after
Prue again, it turned on Phoebe. It struck out with one of it's
clawed hands, raking across Phoebe's chest. It cut gashes in Phoebes'
chest as she tried to avoid the claws.
Prue raised her hand again and sent the demon sprawling back
against the same wall it had been cast against before. It stood up
and shook its' head. Jason moved up to Phoebe and put his hand over
her chest. He used his healing power and within seconds Phoebe's
wounds were completely healed.
Piper looked at Leo. A single tear fell from her eye. If he
could try to kill her, then there was absolutely no doubt in her mind
any longer. Her Leo was gone forever. She reached into her pocket
and pulled out a slip of paper. She turned to Leo and started to read
from the paper.
Before she could speak the first word, Telk tackled her from the
side. Her freezing of him had worn off and he obviously realized that
Piper was about to recite a spell. As the two of them tumbled to the
floor, the paper Piper had been holding flew out of her hands.
The render demon struck out with its' clawed hand again but
missed Prue. She used her telekinetic ability again sending him once
more against the wall. Phoebe stepped back a couple of steps and
closed her eyes. As the render demon started to rise, she opened her
eyes.
As Jason and Prue watched, Phoebe recited a spell that caused
the render demon to suddenly explode into flames. It howled in agony
as the flames consumed it, then extinguished taking the demon with
them.
Prue turned to face the remaining two demons. Piper had rolled
away from Telk and was starting to rise to her feet. She looked
around desperately for the paper with the vanquishing spell on it but
couldn't see it anywhere. Prue raised her hand, calling once more on
her telekinetic ability.
The dagger buried in the wall suddenly freed itself, and then
turned and struck Panish in the chest. It buried itself up to the
hilt. The demon howled and pain as it exploded into a thousand shards
that evaporated instantly.
"Let's get out of her," said Telk to Leo.
He didn't wait for Leo. The demon shimmered out of the bedroom,
leaving Leo alone. Leo looked once at Piper, then orbed out of the
bedroom. Everyone looked around feeling relieved that the ordeal was
over.
"Good spell, sis," Prue said to Phoebe. "That thing didn't seem
to be affected too much by my telekinetic ability."
"Not a problem," said Phoebe. "I didn't have time to write a
spell specifically for it. So I just used one I wrote a few months
ago. I modified it a little bit and just got lucky that it worked."
"We're lucky you did," said Jason. "That was a render demon.
Very dumb but also one of the most dangerous demons. That's because
it is a virtual killing machine. It wouldn't have stopped until we or
it was dead."
"Are you okay?" Andrew asked Piper.
"Yeah," said Piper, wiping a tear away. "Only I didn't get a
chance to take out Leo. That damn demon made me drop the spell."
"It's okay, sweetie," said Prue. "You're okay and that's all
that's important. Jason, what about Jasmine? Is she okay?"
Jason concentrated for a moment.
"Yes," he said. "She's at the hospital right now. Seems she
went into labor about ten minutes ago. The White Lighter assigned to
her orbed her to the hospital as soon as her contractions began."
"Great," said Prue. "Well, the innocent has been saved, the
demons have been defeated, and we're all relatively unharmed."
"Speak for yourself," said Phoebe, scratching her chest. "Jason
may have healed the damage caused by that render thing, but now it
itches like crazy."
"A side effect of the healing," said Jason. "Sometimes the
healing doesn't heal all of the deep down damage. You're not in any
danger and your body's natural healing processes will take care of the
rest. But until then, you'll just have to put up with a little
itching. It should go away in a few hours."
"Gee, thanks," said Phoebe.
"Let's get back to the manor," said Jason. "Our work is done
here and we still have Leo to worry about."
"I'm being summoned," said Andrew, suddenly. "I'll try to join
you later at the manor. They probably have another charge for me to
check out."
"A White Lighter's work is never done," said Prue.
Andrew orbed out. The sisters linked arms with Jason and orbed
back to the manor. Prue and Phoebe noticed that Piper was being
unusually quiet. Considering what had just happened, they weren't
very surprised.
THREE
Malevant slammed his fist onto a stone table so hard that the
table shattered under the impact. Telk stood before his master with
his head bowed, trembling from fear. Failing Malevant usually meant
vanquishing for the demon in question.
Leo stood next to Telk eyeing Malevant suspiciously. He had
always heard that Malevant destroyed those underlings who failed him
instantly. But they had been back nearly five minutes and Malevant
hadn't so much as raised a hand against either Telk or Leo.
"Those accursed Charmed Ones," howled Malevant. "Every time we
turn around they are there standing in our way."
Just then the Source flamed into the chamber. He stood in front
of Malevant.
"They failed," hissed the Source. "I have just received word
that the child was born a matter of moments ago. Malevant, what
happened? The plan was perfect. The woman should have died."
"The Charmed Ones," hissed Malevant. "Telk and Wyatt just
returned and informed me of what happened. The Charmed Ones were
waiting for them when they arrived. They were taken totally by
surprise. And there were two White Lighters with them. Both Panish
and Rentak have been vanquished. These two were lucky to escape with
their lives."
"I'm surprised, Malevant," said the Source. "Telk is still
alive. I thought you didn't tolerate failure in an underling?"
"I don't," said Malevant. "But Telk is your underling, not
mine. His offense would have to be much greater before I would
vanquish one of your underlings without your permission."
"What about me?" asked Leo.
"You are new here," said Malevant. "I am not totally without
tolerance. Besides, you were sent as an observer, not as a combatant.
You observed. Therefore, you didn't fail me. This time."
"The Charmed Ones," the Source echoed. "Always it is the
Charmed Ones who stand in our way. Curse the day that youngest sister
opened that accursed book. If not for that, we would not have those
three to worry about."
"It cannot be undone," said Malevant. "Much as we would want
to."
"What about the child?" asked Leo. "Can't we send someone in to
kill the child? I could orb in and pretend to be a doctor. I was a
medic before I died. I could fake my way enough to get close to the
child."
"It makes no difference now," said the Source. "As we told you,
it's not the child we were after. It was the child's birth. Now that
the birth has taken place, it would serve no purpose to kill either
the mother or the child."
"The Source speaks the truth," said Malevant. "We will have to
contend ourselves with the next link in the chain. The next sign of
the convergence. If we can prevent that, the chain may still be
broken."
"Unless," said the Source thoughtfully.
"What is it, my liege?" asked Malevant. "You have an idea?"
"Yes," said the Source. "We have been so concerned with the
signs of the convergence we have been ignoring something a bit more
basic."
"And what would that be?" asked Malevant.
"The Charmed Ones," said the Source. "The Seer has told me that
this convergence foretells of my destruction by the Charmed Ones.
Which is the reason we have been trying so desperately to prevent
convergence."
"I know," said Malevant. "What else can we do?"
"We can remove the reason for the convergence," said the Source.
"We could see if the Seer can locate another sigh of the convergence.
Or we can remove the one obstacle that is the reason for the
convergence in the first place."
"Go after the Charmed Ones?" questioned Malevant. "Is that
wise? We've just several valuable underlings to the Charmed Ones. Do
you think it's wise to try and go after them directly?"
"Can you think of anything better?" asked the Source. "With one
of your plans and the right underlings, we should be able to take out
the Charmed Ones. We only have to kill one to break the Power of
Three."
"It does have the merit of being bold and original," said
Malevant. "But we are talking about the Charmed Ones, not some
ordinary witch. The plan will have to be carefully planned. And the
underlings will have to be absolutely trustworthy. We can ill afford
to have them turn tail and run in the middle of a fight."
"You worry about the plan, Malevant," said the Source. "I will
concern myself with the demons I send. How long will it take you to
prepare a plan?"
"I will have to give it some serious consideration," said
Malevant. "This is going to be a very delicate matter. I will need
at least a few hours."
"I need it as soon as possible," said the Source. He looked
over at Leo and Telk. "Include the Promethian in your plan. I'm sure
he would be happy to help us eliminate his former charges."
"My pleasure," said Leo. "I missed my chance before. I'd like
the chance to make up for it."
"Very well," said Malevant. "Source, I will let you know when I
have a plan ready. Choose those who will go carefully. And I think I
may have a way to take out one of the Charmed Ones quickly and easily.
I will let you know when all the preparations have been made."
Malevant shimmered out of the cavern. The Source turned to Leo
and Telk.
"Well," he said, "it seems that in a very short time we shall be
rid of the Charmed Ones forever. This will be a great day for the
underworld. And for me personally. Promethian, once the Charmed Ones
are dealt with, you and I shall have a chat. And you will tell me all
that you know regarding your other charges and anything else you know
from your former White Lighter days."
FOUR
"Jasmine is fine," said Jason, orbing in from the hospital. "So
is the baby. She had a beautiful, perfect baby girl. Mother and
daughter are doing great and will be released from the hospital in a
couple of days."
"Great," said Prue. "What about protection for them? Won't the
demons try to get to Jasmine again?"
"No," said Jason. "Neither Jasmine nor the baby were a threat
to any demon. It was the baby's birth that was a threat. It was the
first sign of a convergence. Since the baby has already been born,
the threat is now passed."
"A convergence?" asked Phoebe. "What's that?"
"Every so often," said Jason, "there is a sort of watershed
event in the magical world. These are called convergences. For a
time before the convergence happens, there are specific signs that
indicate it's going to take place. These signs are sometimes known,
sometimes they aren't."
"So are these convergences good or evil?" asked Phoebe.
"They can be either," said Jason. "The last one was back in
1935. The convergence was World War II."
"That's when Leo died," interjected Piper.
"Yes," said Jason. "In this case, the Elders aren't sure just
exactly what the convergence is going to be. It could happen in the
next few weeks or it could take months or even years. All we can do
is wait for the signs to appear."
"So, what do we do now?" asked Phoebe. "Jasmine and her baby
are safe. But we still have Leo to worry about. He's still out there
and you said he would be coming after us sooner or later."
"Yes," said Jason. "I'm afraid that's true. It's only a matter
of time before he comes after you. Probably not right away, though.
Whatever demon Leo has joined up with will want to learn everything he
can about you first. Learn your strengths and weaknesses to better
prepare himself."
"You said he'd go after his other charges first," said Piper.
"Any idea who he'll go after first?"
"Probably the weakest one," said Jason. "To build up to you.
And like I said, he won't be coming alone. Eventually, the demon will
give him additional powers and abilities beyond his White Lighter
abilities. But that won't be for a while. Even though he's a
Promethian, the demon will want to make sure he won't desert him for
some other demon."
"Jason," said Piper, "how many White Lighters have turned in the
past?"
"I'm not exactly sure," said Jason. "It's not something the
Elders are very eager to talk about, as I'm sure you can understand.
Somewhere between seven and eleven as far as anyone can determine."
"And none of them have ever turned back?" asked Piper.
"No, they haven't," said Jason. "Piper, I know this is very
hard on you. And I know you'd like to believe that you could somehow
turn Leo back. But it's just not going to happen. Promethians never
turn back to good."
"Might as well expect a demon to become good over the love of a
woman," said Phoebe.
"I'm not expecting to turn him back," said Piper. "He tried to
kill me at Jasmine's place. The Leo I know would never have tried
that. That Leo is gone. I've accepted that. I was just curious how
many have turned before, that's all."
"Maybe we should try to help Leo's other charges," suggested
Prue. "We've already proven that we can handle ourselves against the
demons. We might be able to help protect some of those charges."
"No," said Jason, "that won't be possible. For one thing, you
can't just ignore your responsibility to the innocents who are
counting on you. For another, there's no way of know when he'll go
after them or which one it will be."
"Okay," said Prue. "I guess all we can do is wait until
something happens."
"That's about the size of it," said Jason. "The Elders will be
appointing a replacement for Leo soon to be your new White Lighter.
Once he or she is appointed, I'll move onto another assignment."
"What about you?" asked Phoebe. "We've already gotten to know
you. We've even fought demons with you. It seems to me the best
course of action would be to just make your our new White Lighter."
"Well," said Jason, "I'm sure the Elders will take that into
consideration. But they do have other things to take into
consideration. They may decide that I would be of better use
somewhere else."
"Don't we get a say in this?" asked Prue.
"I can't really say," said Jason. "To my knowledge, something
like this has never come up before. Most White Lighters outlive their
charges, not the other way around."
"Listen," said Prue, "you tell the Elders that we risk our lives
every day protecting the innocent. On top of which we're the Charmed
Ones, not just some witches who have banded together. I don't think
it's too much to ask to let us have a say in who our White Lighter is.
You tell the Elders that we want you as our White Lighter."
"I'll pass that on to them," said Jason. "I'm sure when they
learn you feel so strongly about it they'll give your request some
serious consideration."
"It's not a request," said Prue. "We're insisting. After
everything we've been through, we've earned it. And considering that
Piper is going to have to help in vanquishing the man she loves, you
tell the Elders if they say no, they're going to hear about it."
"Okay, okay," said Jason, "I'm convinced. I'll tell them. I'm
not sure how they're going to react, but I'll tell them that you're
insisting."
"Good," said Phoebe. "Now, I'd better hit the books. I have a
psych test coming up and I'm way behind on my studying."
"Good luck," said Jason.
"Thanks," said Phoebe. "I need to bring my grade up if I want
to keep my G.P.A for the semester."
Phoebe left the kitchen and headed for her room leaving the
others still gathered around the table.
FIVE
Malevant strode into the Source's chamber, Melnar and Telk close
behind. The Source stood in the center of the chamber, Leo at his
side. Three other demons stood off to one side, waiting for
instructions from their master.
"Malevant," said the Source, "you said you have a plan. I have
gathered Losh, Torrick, and Kelnan as you requested. And I see you've
brought Melnar and Telk with you. I assume they are all involved in
this plan of yours."
"As is the Promethian," said Malevant. "But for my plan to
work, we will have need of a particularly rare weapon. One which only
you, Source, have access to. In order for my plan to work, we will
need that weapon."
"There are a few weapons which could be in that category," said
the Source. "You'll have to be a bit more specific."
Malevant eyed the Source. Getting these types of weapons from
the Source was very difficult. He was a very cautious demon. But
Malevant was sure that, in this case, the Source would agree.
"An obsidian blade," said Malevant, finally.
The Source looked at Malevant. The obsidian blade was an
ancient weapon. It was how the Source himself had finally come to
power. Only one was known to still exist and the Source kept it
locked securely away where no one could get to it but him.
"You are aware of the danger of putting the obsidian blade in
the hands of an underling," said the Source. "The power of that blade
is unmatched by almost any other weapon. If I am to release that
blade, I must have a very good reason."
"Once I explain my plan," said Malevant, "I'm sure you'll agree
the risk is worth it."
"Very well," said the Source. "I will listen to your plan
before I make my determination."
"That is all I ask," said Malevant. "The first part of the plan
is quite simple. Losh, Torrick, Kelnan, and Melnar will shimmer into
the Charmed Ones manor. Their mission is quite simple. They are to
attack the Charmed Ones."
"That is a risky plan," said the Source. "Attacking the Charmed Ones
in their home where they are most powerful is dangerous. Even at four
against three they would be at a disadvantage."
"I know," said Malevant. "I do not expect them to defeat the
Charmed Ones. That is not the purpose of their attack. They are only
to delay the Charmed Ones and keep them occupied."
"And that is where the others come in?" asked the Source.
"Precisely," said Malevant. "A few minutes after they engage
the Charmed Ones, Telk and Wyatt will enter the manor. That is where
the obsidian blade comes into play. Wyatt will have the blade. While
the Charmed Ones are engaged fighting the four we send after them, he
can use it to kill one of the sisters. Once he does that, the other
two will be powerless and the demons can finish them off."
The Source looked at Malevant. Then he looked at Leo. He
didn't speak for a moment. He pulled Malevant aside where the others
couldn't hear them speak.
"And if the Promethian tries to use the blade to take control of
the underworld?" asked the Source.
"When they return here," said Malevant, "you and I will have a
dozen demons here for protection. And I will make sure that we have
four Dark Lighters present as well. Even if he should try, he won't
live long enough to reach either of us."
The Source laughed.
"Excellent," he said. "With the obsidian blade not even the
Charmed Ones can hope to stand against five demons. And with them out
of the way there will be no witch strong enough to stand against me.
You are right, Malevant. The rewards are well worth the risk of using
the blade."
"I thought you might see it my way," said Malevant. "I suggest
we send them in the first thing in the morning. They know that Wyatt
will be coming after them eventually, but Promethians rarely move
against their former charges so quickly. The attack will take them
completely by surprise."
"Yes," said the Source. The two turned back to the demons. "I
agree with Malevants' plan. Return here in the morning. I will have
the obsidian blade then. Once you have the blade, you will move
against the Charmed Ones and put them out of our way once and for
all."
The Source turned and left the chamber. His underlings
followed. Malevant and his two underlings shimmered away. Leo was
left in the chamber alone. He returned to the chamber the Source had
provided for him as quarters. In the morning, he would learn about
the plan to rid the world of the Charmed Ones forever.
Leo was already in the great chamber when the Source, Malevant,
and the other demons shimmered in. The Source was holding a dagger
with a serrated blade. The blade was at least eight inches long and
was inscribed with ancient glyphs and runes. Leo also noticed four
Dark Lighters in the chamber, each with their crossbows. They were
there, he knew, for him should he prove a threat. The Source handed
the blade to Malevant, who then walked over to Leo.
"This is the obsidian blade," announced Malevant. "Few weapons
are as powerful, or as dangerous, as this blade. Its' enchantment is
ancient. More ancient than even most demons. With this blade, any
creature can be killed.
"Promethian, you will take the blade with you during the attack.
Losh, Torrick, Kelnan, and Melnar will shimmer into the manor first.
They will, of course, be detected immediately. And, I have no doubt,
the Charmed Ones will attack immediately. Do not hold back on your
attacks. Attack with all the ferocity in you. The Charmed Ones must
be fully engaged in combat with you before Melnar and Wyatt enter the
manor.
"Wyatt, once inside the manor you will use this blade against
the Charmed Ones. I want you to kill the middle sister first. You do
not have to strike deep with the blade for it to be effective. In
fact, even a minor wound will be sufficient. When an obsidian blade
draws blood, the victim dies instantly. Not ever their White Lighter
will be able to heal her. All you need do is scratch her with it for
your job to be complete."
"That's a very powerful weapon," said Leo.
"Which is why only I have access to it," said the Source. "Not
even Malevant nor myself can resist the power of that blade. Once you
have killed the witch, her sisters will loose their powers. The Power
of Three will be broken and the demons can finish them off."
"If possible," said Malevant, "kill their White Lighter also.
This blade is powerful enough to kill even a White Lighter." He
handed the blade to Leo. "Take care not to cut yourself with it,
Promethian. The effects would be most unfortunate."
Leo reached out and grasped the handle of the dagger. As he
did, he saw the four Dark Lighters shifted position, aiming their
crossbows directly at him. He took the blade and looked at the
inscriptions on it.
"What's the matter?" asked Leo with a smile. "Afraid I might
try to take over with this thing?"
"Just a precaution," said Malevant. "Once the Charmed Ones are
dead, return the blade here. The Source will lock it away again where
it can do no damage. And once the Charmed Ones are no more, I'm sure
we will be able to find some suitable reward for your services.
Perhaps some power more useful to your new profession than simply
orbing."
"That would be nice," said Leo. "Since my healing powers won't
work on a demon or myself, it will pretty much go to waste. It would
be nice to be able to do more than just orb around and pass out
information."
"Complete this task," said the Source, "and I promise you
greater power."
"It is time," said Malevant. "The Charmed Ones will not be
expecting an attack on them so quickly. Losh, take Torrick, Kelnan,
and Melnar and shimmer to the Charmed Ones manor immediately. Telk
and Wyatt will follow in a moment or two, giving you time to fully
engage them. Do not let up on your attacks once they arrive. Their
attention must be fully on you so that they do not notice Wyatt orb
in."
"As you wish," said Losh.
He and the three other demons shimmered out, leaving Melnar,
Leo, Malevant, and the Source alone in the chamber. No one spoke.
They stood there for several minutes, giving the four demons enough
time to begin the final battle with the Charmed Ones.
"Go," ordered Malevant finally. "By now the battle is in full
pitch. Remember, Promethian, you have but to scratch the sister to
accomplish your goal. Do not fail me."
"Don't worry," said Leo. "I know what I have to do."
With that, Telk and Leo left the great chamber for the manor.
"Finally," said the Source, "I shall be rid of those accursed
Charmed Ones forever. This is a great day, Malevant. We must think
of a suitable reward for the Promethian. Rarely has a turned White
Lighter shown such enthusiasm for destroying his previous charges."
"Yes," said Malevant. "He will make an impressive ally to our
ranks."
The two waited in the chamber for the others to return,
announcing the death of their most hated enemies.
To be continued . . .
Be sure not to miss the exciting conclusion in Part 4:
Loyalties. The Source has sent five demons to destroy the Charmed
Ones. And provided Leo with the means necessary to destroy them
instantly. Will the sisters be able to stop his plans and protect
themselves? Or will the one person sworn to help and protect them
destroy the greatest protectors of good the world has known?
If you've enjoyed this story, you can find more "Charmed"
stories at my website, www.geocities.com/killeenmale/ . You can also
post your own "Charmed" stories if you like to write fan fiction.