Triangle of Hades 1
(This is a continuation of the alternate universe I created in Degrees of Evil and that is featured in Information Exchange. I do not own any part of Charmed, I just write about it. And as always, please comment and tell me what you think.)
As morning filtered its way through a dense fog and finally fell on the Halliwell manor, Paige looked up. Damn it, she had done it again. This was the fourth time in a week that Paige had pulled an all-nighter. Ever since she met Michael (Paige could feel a smile form as she thought about him), Paige had realized how little they really knew about the magical world. There was so much information out there, and she had decided to be aggressive about finding out about it.
"Hello Paige." Paige looked up to find Michael looking at her with a smile on his face. He walked over and kissed her, and then said, "Another all-nighter?"
"You said it," Paige said as she stretched. Michael looked at her for a few seconds, and then responded, "You really need to stop it. You're making us scholarly types look bad. Seriously, though, I hope you get enough sleep. After all, we have another date tonight." Michael said the last with a smirk.
"Don't you worry," Paige said slyly, "I can handle a date with you. And everything that comes after it."
Michael pulled her into a hug, and said, "Oh, really." As he bent to kiss her, Paige's cell phone went off. Paige started laughing as she said, "This place can keep out magical transmissions of any kind, but it can't stop a simple telephone call."
"I guess the founders and creators weren't very technologically minded." Michael jested as Paige picked up her phone. It showed the Manor, which meant it was Piper calling to see where she was. Paige looked at Michael, and said, "I have to go, rein check?"
Michael leaned forward and kissed her seriously, and then said, "I'm going to hold you to that."
"I can hardly wait," Paige said seductively as she walked out of the library. Paige couldn't help but shake her head at the speed of their romance. They had only known each other for 6 weeks, and yet she felt like she had known Michael her whole life. She orbed out, content in that knowledge.
Michael smiled. Until he had met Paige, Michael could honestly say he had been a bookworm. He had been entirely focused on knowledge, and ignored women completely. Paige was perfect for him. She brought him into the real world, while still being interested in the same intellectual pursuits he was involved in. Michael knew he was in love with her, and that thought made him happy. He was just about to head to the store when one of the founders walked up to him. Michael hastily made a bow and said, "I apologize, good sir. I didn't see you approach."
The being smiled, and said, "Considering how often your mind is in the clouds, you are forgiven. I was wondering if I could speak with you about a matter of grave importance."
"Oh, of course," Michael said hastily, while he began to feel worried inside. In all the time that he had come here, one of the owners had never approached him. Whatever this was, it had to be big. The being gestured to one of the seats, and Michael sat down in it. The being sat down next to him, and asked, "You are an acquaintance of the Charmed Ones, are you not?"
Michael nodded slowly, not sure what this has to do with anything.
The being leaned forward, and said, "There is something they have to know, and something you will have to help them with."
***
When Paige arrived back home, Piper took a look at her and asked, "Library or Michael?"
"Both, not that it's any of your business." Paige responded.
"Paige, I'm your sister, EVERYTHING is my business," Piper said with a smirk. "So, what did you read about?"
"Nothing much, mostly just the history of magic, and some of the major battles that occurred. Trying to get a feel for history is all."
Phoebe walked down and said, "Good MORNING!" She walked over and gave Paige and Piper a big hug. Piper and Paige looked at her strangely, and then asked, "What did you drink last night?"
"No, no, it's nothing like that." Phoebe continued hastily. "For some reason, I feel really happy. I think my baby is affecting my emotions, and making me more cheerful. I get the feeling Gabriel is getting tired of my morning grumpiness."
"Alright, that's it," Piper said. "LEO!" As Leo orbed in, Piper asked, "Remind me again why Phoebe gets to go through pregnancy with no sickness and a feeling of euphoria, and I get to deal with the chest pains, morning sickness, and wacky magical tricks my baby pulls?"
Leo looked at Phoebe helplessly for a second, and then Paige chimed in, "Because Gabriel is a Guardian?"
"Phoebe, could you talk to Gabriel about teaching my child to block these symptoms? I loved them, but now I am getting really.whoa!" Piper said. She looked at everyone in surprise as she said, "My symptoms, they're.gone."
"I guess Gabriel heard you." Leo remarked.
"Well, it's about time. So, Leo, how is life up there?" Piper asked.
"Well, it's really good. For some reason, demons and warlocks have pretty much vanished over the last six weeks. The Elders think they have decided to focus on cleaning house before they deal with us. Whatever the reason, only one warlock has been seen in the last 6 weeks."
"Tell me about it. It's great," Piper said, "For the first time, we've been able to lead fairly mortal lives."
"How is Cole doing," Phoebe asked suddenly. "I haven't heard from him in a couple of days."
"He's fine," Leo reassured Phoebe. "He's been handling cases like crazy for the last six weeks. I haven't checked in on him often, but he seems to be fine. Overworked, but fine. Of course, he would love to hear from you again Phoebs."
Phoebe looked uncomfortable, and then said, "I'm not sure."
"Come on Phoebe." Paige said suddenly. "You know I've always been the first person to doubt Cole, but I really think he's good now. You still love him, and he still loves you. Stop beating around the bush and get back together."
"It's not that simple, Paige." Phoebe said quietly. "We have a long history, and I honestly don't know if I can get around that. The last time I tried, I became the Queen of the Underworld."
"The circumstances are a little different now, Phoebe," Paige continued. "Especially with the demon activity so light, now is the perfect time for a romance to be rekindled." She paused, and then said," You know, with my new bf, and the two new additions to our family coming in, things are looking."
"Paige, don't say it!" Piper said.
"Up." Paige finished.
"Great, we're doomed. You've just ended our good streak." Piper lamented.
"Come on Piper. One little statement is not going to cause problems."
Suddenly, Michael appeared in front of them. He staggered a bit and had to be caught by Leo. "Damn it, I'm going to get this teleportation spell down."
"What's going on Michael?" Piper asked.
"Well, the creators and librarians of the Library wanted me to tell you about an incident they heard about."
"See, I knew it," Piper said, "What happened?"
"Well, it appears about 7 warlocks attacked an ancient monastery. They only took one item, and the Librarians wanted you to know."
"Well, what was stolen?" Paige asked curiously. "Was it some ancient spellbook, or a powerful artifact?"
"That's the thing. All they took was a broken piece of a triangle, one that had been sitting in storage for over three centuries. The Librarians are really puzzled, as there is nothing in our records to indicate what the value of this object is, especially broken."
"Any idea who was behind it?" Phoebe asked.
"Well, the only clue is a symbol left behind when one of the warlocks was injured," Michael said. He held up some obscure and complicated sigil that was inscribed on a piece of cloth. "Other than that, we are not sure."
Leo nodded, and said, "I'll go check with the Elders. Paige, why don't you bring Cole here, and see what he knows? I recommend the rest of you take a look at the list of warlock covens that Paige copied from the library, and get an idea who it could be." He then orbed out, with Paige right on his heels. The other sisters looked at Michael, and said, "Shall we get to work?"
***
As Cole walked out of the courthouse, he felt tired. No, tired didn't even begin to explain it. Cole could barely walk, and he sorely needed a vacation. However, all his work had paid off. The EPA had just agreed to take on a major pollution case against one of the largest corporations in the world, and Cole was to head the prosecution team. His life was looking up.
Cole sat down on a bench, and sighed. Who was he fooling? He was miserable without Phoebe. Cole ached to tell her he still loved her, and to try and win her back. However, he remembered how effective his previous campaigns were. No, if he was going to get her back, he had to coax her out of the bushes and wait for her to make the first move. No matter how much it hurt, Cole had to wait.
Cole was so preoccupied with his thoughts that he didn't see Paige until she tapped him on the shoulder. He stood up in surprise and said, "Paige! This is unexpected. What's wrong?"
"We're not sure yet, but a group of warlocks have stolen something. We need your help if you're not too busy." Paige said.
"Sure, not a problem. Let's go." Cole responded as he took her arm. They soon orbed out, and were on their way.
***
"What about the Inferno coven?" Piper asked.
"Too small, and besides, they were wiped out during the last Source's reign." Michael responded.
"You know, this list would be more helpful if it were a little more accurate. The last 6 covens we've mentioned are already dead." Phoebe said in exasperation.
"That's what happens when there are chaotic times in the Underworld. It is much harder to keep track of what's going on."
"What we really need is a list of symbols used by the covens," Piper chimed in.
"Unfortunately, no list exists, because warlocks almost never tell their symbols to good." Michael said. He then looked up as Paige and Cole orbed in. "What took so long?"
"Took a while to find him," Paige replied. "Any luck?"
"Not really, most of the covens it could be are wiped out," Phoebe said, deliberately avoiding Cole's eyes.
"Hey Cole, maybe you can identify this symbol." Piper said.
"Sure, I'll do what I can." Cole said. As he picked up the symbol and looked at it, he gave a start. He looked at it again for a few moments, and then said quietly, "This is impossible." He then looked at Michael and asked, "What was stolen?"
"Just a piece of a triangle." Michael responded. Cole's face went pale, and he said, "Did the triangle have strange symbols on it, symbols that seemed to dance and change?"
"Yes, how did you know?" Michael asked in surprise.
Cole sighed, and said, "I was afraid you were going to say that."
Leo appeared suddenly, and said, "The Elders were able to identify the object that was stolen. It is one part of a mythological object called the Triangle of Hades."
"What is that?" Paige asked.
"According to demon lore, it was wielded by the second Source 5 eons ago," Cole said quietly. "Supposedly, the second Source was once an Angel of Death, before he became corrupt. This being, known as Hades, placed all of his power into a Triangle, which he then wielded as an evil demon. He brought great power to the Source. However, no one knows if it is true."
"Well, what does this Triangle supposedly do?" Piper asked.
"First of all, many demons suspected it all was a myth, and that Hades faked it somehow. However, a group was founded known as the Diablo coven, and they believe fanatically that it is true, and seek to reunite it and rule all of demondom. They truly are deluded. Everyone knows the Triangle has no power." Cole said scornfully.
"Do you know for sure?" Piper asked. When Cole shook his head, she said, "Then let's assume the myth is true. What is it SUPPOSED to do?"
"It supposedly has absolute power of Life and Death." Leo said, "According to the Elders, Good managed to steal the Triangle away, and Hades was overthrown. Since only evil could use it, we tried to destroy it. However, all efforts to do so failed. The best our side could do is shatter it into three pieces, which were then scattered to the far winds."
"Where are the pieces now?" Phoebe asked.
"We don't know," Leo said slowly.
"But the Library might." Michael chimed in. "We keep a list of all known magical artifacts, and their last known location."
"Alright, let's go take a look at it." As people began to grab onto Paige, Leo said, "I think I'll stay here, the Library does block me from hearing my charges."
"I'll stay to," Cole said, "I'm not really welcome there, since I used to be a demon."
"Suit yourself," Paige said, and then they orbed out. As soon as they were gone, Cole turned to Leo and said, "Leo, I have a favor to ask. However, if you agree, you have to swear to tell no one about it. Not the sisters, not the Elders, no one!"
"Well, let me hear what the request is." Leo said.
Cole paused for a second, and then said, "I need you to take me to the Wasteland."
TO BE CONTINUED.
(This is a continuation of the alternate universe I created in Degrees of Evil and that is featured in Information Exchange. I do not own any part of Charmed, I just write about it. And as always, please comment and tell me what you think.)
As morning filtered its way through a dense fog and finally fell on the Halliwell manor, Paige looked up. Damn it, she had done it again. This was the fourth time in a week that Paige had pulled an all-nighter. Ever since she met Michael (Paige could feel a smile form as she thought about him), Paige had realized how little they really knew about the magical world. There was so much information out there, and she had decided to be aggressive about finding out about it.
"Hello Paige." Paige looked up to find Michael looking at her with a smile on his face. He walked over and kissed her, and then said, "Another all-nighter?"
"You said it," Paige said as she stretched. Michael looked at her for a few seconds, and then responded, "You really need to stop it. You're making us scholarly types look bad. Seriously, though, I hope you get enough sleep. After all, we have another date tonight." Michael said the last with a smirk.
"Don't you worry," Paige said slyly, "I can handle a date with you. And everything that comes after it."
Michael pulled her into a hug, and said, "Oh, really." As he bent to kiss her, Paige's cell phone went off. Paige started laughing as she said, "This place can keep out magical transmissions of any kind, but it can't stop a simple telephone call."
"I guess the founders and creators weren't very technologically minded." Michael jested as Paige picked up her phone. It showed the Manor, which meant it was Piper calling to see where she was. Paige looked at Michael, and said, "I have to go, rein check?"
Michael leaned forward and kissed her seriously, and then said, "I'm going to hold you to that."
"I can hardly wait," Paige said seductively as she walked out of the library. Paige couldn't help but shake her head at the speed of their romance. They had only known each other for 6 weeks, and yet she felt like she had known Michael her whole life. She orbed out, content in that knowledge.
Michael smiled. Until he had met Paige, Michael could honestly say he had been a bookworm. He had been entirely focused on knowledge, and ignored women completely. Paige was perfect for him. She brought him into the real world, while still being interested in the same intellectual pursuits he was involved in. Michael knew he was in love with her, and that thought made him happy. He was just about to head to the store when one of the founders walked up to him. Michael hastily made a bow and said, "I apologize, good sir. I didn't see you approach."
The being smiled, and said, "Considering how often your mind is in the clouds, you are forgiven. I was wondering if I could speak with you about a matter of grave importance."
"Oh, of course," Michael said hastily, while he began to feel worried inside. In all the time that he had come here, one of the owners had never approached him. Whatever this was, it had to be big. The being gestured to one of the seats, and Michael sat down in it. The being sat down next to him, and asked, "You are an acquaintance of the Charmed Ones, are you not?"
Michael nodded slowly, not sure what this has to do with anything.
The being leaned forward, and said, "There is something they have to know, and something you will have to help them with."
***
When Paige arrived back home, Piper took a look at her and asked, "Library or Michael?"
"Both, not that it's any of your business." Paige responded.
"Paige, I'm your sister, EVERYTHING is my business," Piper said with a smirk. "So, what did you read about?"
"Nothing much, mostly just the history of magic, and some of the major battles that occurred. Trying to get a feel for history is all."
Phoebe walked down and said, "Good MORNING!" She walked over and gave Paige and Piper a big hug. Piper and Paige looked at her strangely, and then asked, "What did you drink last night?"
"No, no, it's nothing like that." Phoebe continued hastily. "For some reason, I feel really happy. I think my baby is affecting my emotions, and making me more cheerful. I get the feeling Gabriel is getting tired of my morning grumpiness."
"Alright, that's it," Piper said. "LEO!" As Leo orbed in, Piper asked, "Remind me again why Phoebe gets to go through pregnancy with no sickness and a feeling of euphoria, and I get to deal with the chest pains, morning sickness, and wacky magical tricks my baby pulls?"
Leo looked at Phoebe helplessly for a second, and then Paige chimed in, "Because Gabriel is a Guardian?"
"Phoebe, could you talk to Gabriel about teaching my child to block these symptoms? I loved them, but now I am getting really.whoa!" Piper said. She looked at everyone in surprise as she said, "My symptoms, they're.gone."
"I guess Gabriel heard you." Leo remarked.
"Well, it's about time. So, Leo, how is life up there?" Piper asked.
"Well, it's really good. For some reason, demons and warlocks have pretty much vanished over the last six weeks. The Elders think they have decided to focus on cleaning house before they deal with us. Whatever the reason, only one warlock has been seen in the last 6 weeks."
"Tell me about it. It's great," Piper said, "For the first time, we've been able to lead fairly mortal lives."
"How is Cole doing," Phoebe asked suddenly. "I haven't heard from him in a couple of days."
"He's fine," Leo reassured Phoebe. "He's been handling cases like crazy for the last six weeks. I haven't checked in on him often, but he seems to be fine. Overworked, but fine. Of course, he would love to hear from you again Phoebs."
Phoebe looked uncomfortable, and then said, "I'm not sure."
"Come on Phoebe." Paige said suddenly. "You know I've always been the first person to doubt Cole, but I really think he's good now. You still love him, and he still loves you. Stop beating around the bush and get back together."
"It's not that simple, Paige." Phoebe said quietly. "We have a long history, and I honestly don't know if I can get around that. The last time I tried, I became the Queen of the Underworld."
"The circumstances are a little different now, Phoebe," Paige continued. "Especially with the demon activity so light, now is the perfect time for a romance to be rekindled." She paused, and then said," You know, with my new bf, and the two new additions to our family coming in, things are looking."
"Paige, don't say it!" Piper said.
"Up." Paige finished.
"Great, we're doomed. You've just ended our good streak." Piper lamented.
"Come on Piper. One little statement is not going to cause problems."
Suddenly, Michael appeared in front of them. He staggered a bit and had to be caught by Leo. "Damn it, I'm going to get this teleportation spell down."
"What's going on Michael?" Piper asked.
"Well, the creators and librarians of the Library wanted me to tell you about an incident they heard about."
"See, I knew it," Piper said, "What happened?"
"Well, it appears about 7 warlocks attacked an ancient monastery. They only took one item, and the Librarians wanted you to know."
"Well, what was stolen?" Paige asked curiously. "Was it some ancient spellbook, or a powerful artifact?"
"That's the thing. All they took was a broken piece of a triangle, one that had been sitting in storage for over three centuries. The Librarians are really puzzled, as there is nothing in our records to indicate what the value of this object is, especially broken."
"Any idea who was behind it?" Phoebe asked.
"Well, the only clue is a symbol left behind when one of the warlocks was injured," Michael said. He held up some obscure and complicated sigil that was inscribed on a piece of cloth. "Other than that, we are not sure."
Leo nodded, and said, "I'll go check with the Elders. Paige, why don't you bring Cole here, and see what he knows? I recommend the rest of you take a look at the list of warlock covens that Paige copied from the library, and get an idea who it could be." He then orbed out, with Paige right on his heels. The other sisters looked at Michael, and said, "Shall we get to work?"
***
As Cole walked out of the courthouse, he felt tired. No, tired didn't even begin to explain it. Cole could barely walk, and he sorely needed a vacation. However, all his work had paid off. The EPA had just agreed to take on a major pollution case against one of the largest corporations in the world, and Cole was to head the prosecution team. His life was looking up.
Cole sat down on a bench, and sighed. Who was he fooling? He was miserable without Phoebe. Cole ached to tell her he still loved her, and to try and win her back. However, he remembered how effective his previous campaigns were. No, if he was going to get her back, he had to coax her out of the bushes and wait for her to make the first move. No matter how much it hurt, Cole had to wait.
Cole was so preoccupied with his thoughts that he didn't see Paige until she tapped him on the shoulder. He stood up in surprise and said, "Paige! This is unexpected. What's wrong?"
"We're not sure yet, but a group of warlocks have stolen something. We need your help if you're not too busy." Paige said.
"Sure, not a problem. Let's go." Cole responded as he took her arm. They soon orbed out, and were on their way.
***
"What about the Inferno coven?" Piper asked.
"Too small, and besides, they were wiped out during the last Source's reign." Michael responded.
"You know, this list would be more helpful if it were a little more accurate. The last 6 covens we've mentioned are already dead." Phoebe said in exasperation.
"That's what happens when there are chaotic times in the Underworld. It is much harder to keep track of what's going on."
"What we really need is a list of symbols used by the covens," Piper chimed in.
"Unfortunately, no list exists, because warlocks almost never tell their symbols to good." Michael said. He then looked up as Paige and Cole orbed in. "What took so long?"
"Took a while to find him," Paige replied. "Any luck?"
"Not really, most of the covens it could be are wiped out," Phoebe said, deliberately avoiding Cole's eyes.
"Hey Cole, maybe you can identify this symbol." Piper said.
"Sure, I'll do what I can." Cole said. As he picked up the symbol and looked at it, he gave a start. He looked at it again for a few moments, and then said quietly, "This is impossible." He then looked at Michael and asked, "What was stolen?"
"Just a piece of a triangle." Michael responded. Cole's face went pale, and he said, "Did the triangle have strange symbols on it, symbols that seemed to dance and change?"
"Yes, how did you know?" Michael asked in surprise.
Cole sighed, and said, "I was afraid you were going to say that."
Leo appeared suddenly, and said, "The Elders were able to identify the object that was stolen. It is one part of a mythological object called the Triangle of Hades."
"What is that?" Paige asked.
"According to demon lore, it was wielded by the second Source 5 eons ago," Cole said quietly. "Supposedly, the second Source was once an Angel of Death, before he became corrupt. This being, known as Hades, placed all of his power into a Triangle, which he then wielded as an evil demon. He brought great power to the Source. However, no one knows if it is true."
"Well, what does this Triangle supposedly do?" Piper asked.
"First of all, many demons suspected it all was a myth, and that Hades faked it somehow. However, a group was founded known as the Diablo coven, and they believe fanatically that it is true, and seek to reunite it and rule all of demondom. They truly are deluded. Everyone knows the Triangle has no power." Cole said scornfully.
"Do you know for sure?" Piper asked. When Cole shook his head, she said, "Then let's assume the myth is true. What is it SUPPOSED to do?"
"It supposedly has absolute power of Life and Death." Leo said, "According to the Elders, Good managed to steal the Triangle away, and Hades was overthrown. Since only evil could use it, we tried to destroy it. However, all efforts to do so failed. The best our side could do is shatter it into three pieces, which were then scattered to the far winds."
"Where are the pieces now?" Phoebe asked.
"We don't know," Leo said slowly.
"But the Library might." Michael chimed in. "We keep a list of all known magical artifacts, and their last known location."
"Alright, let's go take a look at it." As people began to grab onto Paige, Leo said, "I think I'll stay here, the Library does block me from hearing my charges."
"I'll stay to," Cole said, "I'm not really welcome there, since I used to be a demon."
"Suit yourself," Paige said, and then they orbed out. As soon as they were gone, Cole turned to Leo and said, "Leo, I have a favor to ask. However, if you agree, you have to swear to tell no one about it. Not the sisters, not the Elders, no one!"
"Well, let me hear what the request is." Leo said.
Cole paused for a second, and then said, "I need you to take me to the Wasteland."
TO BE CONTINUED.