(This is an AU story)
By J. B. Tilton email: K
Disclaimer: "Charmed" and all related characters and events are the property of the WB television network, except for those characters specifically created for this story. This is a work of fan fiction and no infringement of copyright is intended.
(Authors note: This story takes place between season 4 episodes "The Fifth Halliwheel" and "Saving Private Leo". This is an alternate universe story where Cole was never possessed by the Source of all Evil.)
Cole's former demonic teacher comes to the Charmed Ones seeking their help in stopping a young demonic boy with an awesome ability.
ONE
"Dear Phoebe:
"I am the mother of a darling four year old boy. He is the joy of my life. My problem is that he is also totally spoiled. His father and I have tried everything we can to straighten him out but nothing seems to work. No matter what we do it seems we always end up giving in to whatever he wants. I'm afraid if we don't do something soon he will soon become totally unmanageable. I am desperate, Phoebe. You always give such great advice I'm hoping you can help me with this problem. I don't know where else to turn but I just know you can help.
"Sincerely, Clueless in Anaheim."
"Dear Clueless in Anaheim:
"First let me say that your problem is very common. Especially with an only child. Children are a great responsibility as I'm sure you've all ready discovered. And first-time parents are often at a loss how to deal with very active children. What you need to remember is that at that age what your son needs most is direction. He is just beginning to discover the world around him and most things are a total mystery to them.
"In addition they don't yet have the discipline they need to put up with the things they don't like. I know it is hard but you have to learn to say no. You're the parent and it's your job to teach him how to be a responsible adult as he grows up. Children instinctively need to be told what to do. By giving in to him every time he throws a tantrum you're only setting him up for big disappointments later in life.
"We all have to practice 'tough love' at one time or another. It's the only way he's going to learn proper restraint and self-control. You and your husband need to agree that no matter what you son does you're going to set limits on him and then stick to those limits. You'll find that very soon he'll listen to you and do what he's told. Good luck and please let me know how things work out.
"Sincerely, Phoebe."
"Well," asked Phoebe, "what do you think?"
"Not bad," said Cole. "Sounds like pretty good advice to me. You've done a fine job on this one."
"Well, I did have some help," said Phoebe. "One of the guys upstairs is married to a psychologist. She was picking him up from work the other day and she's the one who gave me the advice."
"It doesn't matter where you get the advice," said Cole staring out into the outer office. "We all draw on friends and acquaintances for help and advice. As long as it's good advice it really doesn't matter where you get it from."
"Are you okay?" Phoebe asked. "You seem preoccupied."
"No, no, nothing's wrong," said Cole. "I just thought I saw someone in the outer office I recognized."
"Another lawyer?" Phoebe asked.
"Uh, not exactly," said Cole. "More like an old acquaintance. A very old acquaintance."
"A demon?" whispered Phoebe, looking out into the outer office.
"Relax," said Cole, "I'm sure it wasn't who I thought it was. He does come to the mortal plane from time to time but I seriously doubt he'd come here. Too many mortals around. Besides, there wouldn't be anything here he would want."
"Except me," said Phoebe. "Remember, I am a Charmed One. There are more than a few demons who'd love to get to me."
"Not him," said Cole. "His name is Cartrack and he has other duties that keep him very busy."
"What kinds of duties?" Phoebe asked.
"Well," said Cole, "you might say he's sort of a teacher. He helps train young demons to take their rightful place in the demonic hierarchy. He doesn't do a whole lot of fighting. And like I said, he wouldn't be coming here."
"Well," said Phoebe, "I'm just about finished for the day. Let's head home. If this Cartrack was here I'd feel better at home with Piper and Paige around to help if we need it."
"Good idea," said Cole. "But I wouldn't worry about it. I'm sure it wasn't him. He's not powerful enough to face you. He'd have to be crazy to even try. Just forget it. It was probably someone else."
"Okay, as long as you're sure," said Phoebe, grabbing her purse.
Cole wasn't sure. He was almost positive it had been Cartrack he had seen in the outer office. But that didn't make sense. What he had told Phoebe about that demon was true. He wouldn't stand a chance against a Charmed One. And when he did come to the mortal plane he almost always avoided contact with humans.