Chapter 17: A Muse to My Ears Part 1
December 20, 2001 – Thursday
Halliwell Manor
"Hey!" Cole greeted with a warm smile as he entered the kitchen, his eyes lighting up at the sight of his beautiful girlfriend chopping away at the island, clad in an apron and everything. The scene felt almost idyllic, the kitchen bathed in the soft glow of the afternoon sun. "Where is everyone?" he asked, referring to the completely deserted house. The silence was palpable, a stark contrast to the usual hustle and bustle.
Phoebe smiled; a radiant expression that made Cole's heart skip a beat. She put down the knife and stepped towards him, pulling off the apron and tossing it onto the kitchen table with a playful flourish. "Surprise!" she cried, gesturing to herself with a twinkle in her eye.
Cole's eyes widened as he took her in: the tight black dress she wore left almost nothing to the imagination, the way it hugged her curves and the daring cut that exposed her back making his pulse quicken. "You look beautiful," he breathed, unable to tear his gaze away.
Phoebe blushed ever-so-slightly; her cheeks tinged with a delicate pink. "Thank you. I sent everyone away so we could celebrate," she informed him, picking up two tall glasses of Champagne from the counter and handing one to him.
Cole looked down at the glass in his hand, confusion furrowing his brow. "What are we celebrating?" he asked, feeling a bit lost.
"Cole!" Phoebe cried, her joy bubbling over as she struggled to contain it. "You're finally fully human!" she reminded him, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "No more demon half means no more obstacles for our relationship," she pointed out, her voice brimming with hope and love. "Yay, us!" She clinked their glasses together and took a sip, her happiness almost tangible.
Cole merely stared uncomfortably at his glass, the reality of her words slowly sinking in. The transformation had been monumental, and yet it was all still so new to him.
Phoebe chuckled softly, her laughter like a gentle melody. "Um…that was a toast, and usually after the clinking part, you take a little sip," she explained kindly, her tone light and teasing.
Cole took a deep breath, the weight of his worries evident in his eyes. "I…I don't know if sending your sisters or your niece away was a good idea," he told her seriously, his voice laced with concern. "I don't have powers anymore, and I can't protect you if there's an attack," he reminded her, placing his glass down with a slight tremor.
Phoebe mirrored his action, setting her glass down as she moved closer. "Well, my sisters and niece are in calling range," she assured him, her tone soothing as she bridged the gap between them. "And more importantly..." she drew her hands up his chest, her fingers trailing a path that sent shivers through him, "I am in kissing range." She smirked suggestively before attacking his neck teasingly, her lips brushing his skin with feather-light kisses.
Cole placed his hands on her waist and gently pushed her away, his worry overriding the momentary pleasure. "Phoebe, you don't seem to understand that with the Source injured, you might be in more danger than ever before."
Phoebe sighed, her hands dropping in exasperation. "Well, you don't seem to understand that sometimes a girl needs a night off." She smiled at him, a mix of determination and longing in her eyes as she stepped closer again. "Now please, is there anything that I can do…" she trailed off, her lips pressing light kisses to his neck, "…to help you relax?" she asked, nibbling on his ear.
Cole's eyes closed, a small smile playing on his lips as the tension began to melt away. "Well, that helps a little," he admitted, his voice softening. "Maybe you should just…keep doing that," he suggested, his words trailing off as she sucked on his earlobe before moving back to assault his neck with more fervor.
For a blissful thirty seconds, Phoebe managed to distract him, her kisses and nibbles pushing all thoughts of danger from his mind. But then, reality crashed back in, and he gently pushed her off once again. "It's just that, without a strong leader, there's anarchy in the underworld," he continued to explain, his tone earnest and urgent.
Phoebe rolled her eyes, her frustration bubbling to the surface. Resisting the urge to groan, she snapped, "Oh, wow! You're a sweet-talker," her voice dripping with sarcasm.
Cole, completely oblivious to her tone, continued with his rant, his worry driving him. "Demons who would normally compete for the Source's favor—"
"Will start banding together to try to take out the Source," Phoebe interrupted, looking at him pointedly. "Honey, you told me this part already."
"Well, I'm not sure you get it," Cole insisted, his voice rising with urgency. "Demons hoping to replace the Source will gather factions of followers," he explained in greater detail. "And what better way to gain support for your faction than to kill the infamous Charmed Ones?" His rant was abruptly interrupted by the buzzer signaling that dinner was ready.
"I'll get that," Cole told her, walking around the island and pulling down the oven door. He reached in and lifted the pot out. "Ah!" he seethed, the pot burning his bare hand. "Damn it!" he cursed, shaking it in an attempt to stop the stinging.
"Is it bad?" Phoebe asked, hurrying around to him, her concern evident in her eyes. "I could call for Leo."
"No, no, no, it's fine," Cole assured her, though his voice was tinged with frustration. "I used to be able to hold fire in the palm of my hands," he reminded her with a heavy sigh, the weight of his loss evident.
"We vanquished half of you," Phoebe pointed out gently, her tone both supportive and soothing. "That's a huge adjustment. But I promise, you'll figure it out." She smiled, wrapping her arms around his neck, her touch warm and reassuring. "We'll figure it out together."
Cole sighed, his eyes reflecting a mixture of gratitude and lingering worry. "I'm serious about the factions, Phoebe," he reverted back to their previous discussion, his concern unwavering. "If demons join forces..."
Phoebe sighed loudly, exasperation mingling with her affection. She pulled away slightly, taking his face in her hands, her gaze locking onto his with a fierce sincerity. "I promise you; I will worry about the factions first thing in the morning," she vowed, her voice steady and earnest. "But for now, I want us to join forces."
December 21, 2001 – Friday
Halliwell Manor
"Uh...okay, Bev," Piper said slowly into the phone, her tone tinged with mild exasperation as she poured herself the last of the coffee with her free hand. "If that's what you really want." She sighed, walking toward the kitchen table, the warmth of the mug providing little comfort. "Bev! Take yes for an answer," she advised, rolling her eyes at the woman on the other end of the line. "I'll get back to you," she assured her, hanging up the phone just as Phoebe bounced into the room, effortlessly swiping the coffee from Piper's hands and plopping down at the table.
Piper stared at her sister with raised eyebrows, a mix of disbelief and annoyance on her face. "Uh...that was the last of the coffee," she informed her, crossing her arms.
Phoebe grimaced, taking a tentative sip before making a face. "I've had coffee, this is not coffee," she insisted, her expression one of dramatic displeasure. "Have you seen Cole?" she asked, quickly changing the subject to avoid further commentary on the dismal state of the coffee.
Piper sighed and sat down across from her. "He went out," she informed her, the mundane nature of the statement failing to mask her own curiosity. "He said he had some errands to run."
Phoebe frowned, a look of concern flickering across her features. "What kind of errands?"
Piper shrugged, her own worry starting to surface. "He didn't say."
At that moment, Max and Chloe walked into the kitchen, bringing a burst of youthful energy into the room. Chloe's arms were wrapped around Max's waist, her head nestled against Max's shoulder as she kissed her neck, eliciting giggles from Max.
Phoebe and Piper exchanged knowing glances, their eyebrows raised in silent communication as Phoebe took another reluctant sip of her coffee and grimaced at the bitter taste.
"Hey?" Max whined as she caught sight of the empty coffee pot, her face falling into a pout. "Who drank all the coffee?" she asked, turning to her aunts with an accusatory glare.
Piper smirked, her eyes twinkling with mischief as she looked pointedly at her sister. "Phoebe did," she chirped, enjoying the moment.
Phoebe glared back at her sister, a playful annoyance in her eyes. "Oh, you little—"
"Aunt Phoebe!" Max whined childishly, her tone a mix of disappointment and amusement.
Phoebe turned in her chair to face her niece, her expression softening. "Don't worry, you're not missing out," she assured Max with a wry smile. "It's vile." She cringed dramatically, shuddering and pushing the mug away as if it were poison.
Max and Chloe couldn't help but laugh at Phoebe's theatrics as they sat down next to Piper and Phoebe, their faces alight with contented smiles. "Morning," they greeted in unison, the warmth in their voices a stark contrast to the earlier tension.
Piper smirked, raising her eyebrows in acknowledgment. "Morning," she replied, her tone light and welcoming.
Max smiled at Phoebe; her curiosity piqued. "Well?" she prompted, eager to hear about her aunt's evening.
"Ooh yeah. How was date night?" Piper asked, jumping onto Max's topic of conversation with equal interest.
"Great!" Phoebe exclaimed with a bright smile, but it quickly fell. "Fine," she sighed, slumping in her chair. "It was okay," she answered honestly, the enthusiasm draining from her voice. "He kept talking about demonic factions the whole time." Max, Chloe, and Piper frowned in unison, sharing a collective look of concern. "I know," Phoebe sighed again, deeper this time. "God, it sucked!" She dropped her head onto her arms in frustration.
Max rubbed Phoebe's back comfortingly. "Aunt Phoebe, it's probably because it's easier for him to talk about demons than what's really on his mind," she pointed out, her eyebrows raised in understanding.
Phoebe lifted her head slightly, her own eyebrows rising in curiosity. "Which is?"
Piper leaned in; her voice gentle yet knowing. "Whether or not you're going to reconsider his marriage proposal now that he's just a human," she concluded, sharing a knowing look with Max and Chloe. The room fell silent for a moment, the weight of her words hanging in the air.
Phoebe shook her head slowly, a mixture of determination and sadness in her eyes. "We talked about that, and he's totally fine with it," she assured them, her voice steady. "He gets it."
Piper nodded slowly, her expression grave, and glanced over at Max and Chloe, who mirrored her serious demeanor with somber nods of their own. Phoebe's frown deepened, her eyes darting between the three of them in growing concern. "Did he say something to you three?" she asked, her voice tinged with worry.
"No," Chloe replied quickly, her tone incredulous. "But it's hella written all over his face, Phoebe."
Phoebe's eyes widened in realization, her heart sinking at Chloe's words. "It is?" she asked, turning to Max and then back to Piper for confirmation.
Piper nodded solemnly; her gaze soft yet resolute. "Yeah, and uh… truth be told, it's rare for a relationship to survive a rejected proposal," she told her sister, her words carrying a weight that hung heavy in the air.
Phoebe shook her head, her mind racing as she processed the implications of Piper's statement. Sitting forward in her seat, she searched for reassurance. "But it wasn't rejected," she corrected, her voice tinged with desperation. "It was just postponed."
Piper bit her lip, her heart aching for her sister's turmoil, and reached out to take Phoebe's hand in hers. "Yeah, there's… not really… any difference in the eyes of his ego," she admitted gently, her voice filled with empathy.
Phoebe sighed; the weight of their concern palpable in the air. "I'm not ready. You guys know that," she replied adamantly, her voice tinged with frustration and a touch of defensiveness.
Max nodded understandingly; her expression sympathetic. "Yes, we do, but it's not our hearts that are involved," she pointed out gently, her tone soft but firm.
"Or our egos," Chloe chimed in lightly, a playful grin tugging at the corners of her lips. "Don't forget the ego."
Piper nodded in agreement; her brow furrowed with worry. "You should talk to him again," she advised, her voice gentle but insistent, as she, Chloe, and Max all pushed out of their chairs, the sense of urgency in their movements evident.
Phoebe watched them go, her eyes following their retreating figures with a mixture of gratitude and apprehension. "Where are you three going?" she called after them, her voice tinged with confusion.
"P3 to the Max," Piper answered, her tone matter-of-fact as she reached for the phone and placed it back in its cradle, a sense of purpose in her actions.
Phoebe's confusion deepened, her brow furrowing as she tried to make sense of their sudden departure. "At 9 in the morning?" she asked, her tone laced with amusement and disbelief. "Don't club kids sleep in?" she joked, a hint of laughter in her voice as she attempted to lighten the mood.
Max sighed heavily, her shoulders slumping with the weight of exhaustion. "Corporate party," she muttered, her voice tinged with resignation.
"Big money, total nightmare," Piper added, her tone reflecting Max's weariness as she followed her niece out of the kitchen, the prospect of the event looming over them like a dark cloud.
Phoebe frowned, her concern evident as she trailed after her sister, niece, and Chloe. "What if there's an attack?" she asked, her voice tinged with worry.
Piper chuckled lightly, trying to ease Phoebe's anxiety. "At 9 a.m.? Don't demons sleep in?" she quipped, a hint of amusement in her voice as she attempted to brush off Phoebe's concerns.
But Phoebe wasn't so easily reassured, her mind still troubled by the looming threat of danger. "Cole thinks that the demons are going to start banding together to take out the Source," she informed them, her tone serious and earnest.
Max paused in the act of pulling on her jacket, her expression hardening with resolve. "Great!" she exclaimed, a flash of determination in her eyes. "Well, I say the only good Source is a dead Source."
Phoebe shifted uncomfortably, her words hanging in the air like an ominous cloud. "Uh… right, he also seems to think that the best way for a faction leader to gain the support of the demonic masses would be to kill us," she said, her voice tinged with unease.
Paige, newly arrived, glanced around with a mixture of curiosity and concern. "Who's going to kill us?" she asked, her brow furrowing in confusion as she descended the stairs.
"No one," Chloe replied quickly, her tone attempting to dispel any sense of alarm.
Paige shrugged; her expression nonchalant. "That's new," she remarked casually, seemingly unfazed by the potential threat.
Phoebe seized the opportunity to divert their attention, turning to Piper with a hopeful expression. "So, I was thinking, since you're the potions master," she began, her voice laced with flattery, "isn't there something you could whip up, some kind of protection potion maybe?"
Max's eyes lit up with enthusiasm, a grin spreading across her face. "Ooh, I like that," she exclaimed, nudging Chloe playfully, who mirrored her smile. Together, they turned their expectant gazes to Piper, waiting for her response.
Piper let out a weary sigh, her shoulders slumping with resignation. "Phoebe, if there was such a thing as a protection potion, we'd be mixing it in our morning coffee," she pointed out, gesturing towards the kitchen with a wry smile.
Phoebe sighed; her determination unwavering. "I know, but there's got to be something that we can do," she persisted, her voice tinged with urgency. "And by 'we' I mean you," she added with a playful wink, eliciting a laugh from Max.
Piper rolled her eyes at their antics, her expression a mixture of amusement and exasperation. "Well, I say we just wait until we're attacked, like we usually do," she remarked with a shrug, her tone nonchalant. "And then we deal with it then."
Paige, rejoining the group with a box in hand, raised an eyebrow in curiosity. "Who's attacking us?" she asked, her gaze shifting between the others.
"No one," Chloe repeated firmly, her tone leaving no room for doubt.
Paige grinned; her relief palpable. "Right on! I get the weekend off," she exclaimed, her enthusiasm infectious as she turned to head back upstairs, her steps light with newfound freedom.
Piper smiled; her eyes warm with pride. "See, now that is the spirit," she encouraged, pointing after Paige with a sense of fondness.
Max took a deep breath, her expression serious as she addressed her aunt, the weight of their conversation settling heavily on her shoulders. "Aunt Piper, if Cole's right, we have no idea how many of them we are going to be up against," she pointed out, her voice tinged with concern. Just because she wasn't a Charmed One didn't mean she wouldn't be a target.
Piper sighed tiredly; the weariness evident in her posture as she processed Max's words. "Suddenly... I'm beginning to miss the Source," she muttered, a hint of resignation in her tone. The irony of longing for their enemy was not lost on her, but in the face of the uncertainty ahead, any sense of security seemed preferable.
"And even if you don't think we need the protection," Phoebe interjected, her voice gentle but insistent, "just think about Cole." She turned to her sister, her eyes pleading. "And Chloe," she added, glancing at Max and Chloe, the gravity of their situation weighing heavily on her. "They're human beings with no magical powers living in a house that's constantly under demonic attack."
Max's eyes widened with fear, her heart pounding in her chest as she considered the possibility of losing Chloe. "Yeah um… I, I, I don't wanna lose my wife," she stammered, her voice trembling with emotion as she glanced at Chloe, who rested a comforting arm on her back.
Piper sighed, the weight of their pleas bearing down on her, her resolve weakening in the face of their vulnerability. "Well, I guess I can make something..." she relented, her voice resigned but tinged with a hint of determination.
Max's face lit up with gratitude, her relief palpable as she threw her arms around Piper's neck. "Thank you!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine appreciation and affection.
Phoebe's excitement bubbled over, her joy evident as she jumped up and down in celebration. "Yay! Yay! Yay! I love you!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with enthusiasm and affection.
Piper nodded in acknowledgment; her expression serious as she addressed the practicalities of the situation. "After you, Chloe and I go to the club," she added, casting a meaningful look at Max, who nodded in agreement.
Phoebe's excitement waned as she processed Piper's words, a hint of disappointment creeping into her expression. "But—"
"No!" Piper cut her off firmly, her tone leaving no room for argument. "We need the income, and Max and I've got this client who is insisting on a last-minute theme, and man do I hate themes."
Phoebe perked up at the mention of themes, her eyes lighting up with renewed interest. "Oh, I am so good at themes," she declared excitedly, a hint of pride in her voice. "My prom theme, 'Almost Paradise,' totally my idea," she boasted, her chest puffing out with pride.
Chloe couldn't help but roll her eyes at Phoebe's self-congratulatory tone. "Why am I not surprised?" she muttered under her breath, her skepticism evident.
"And this is supposed to impress me and Max how?" Piper retorted, her patience wearing thin as she glanced over at Paige, who was descending the stairs with another box in hand.
Phoebe's curiosity was piqued as she watched Paige's movements. "Are you moving out?" she asked quizzically, her brow furrowing in confusion.
Paige shook her head, a wry smile playing on her lips as she dropped the box on the floor. "No," she assured them; her voice tinged with amusement. "Just cleaning out."
Piper's shock was palpable as she processed Paige's revelation. "Your art supplies?" she asked, her tone laced with disbelief. The idea of Paige parting with something she was passionate about struck her as particularly surprising.
Max chimed in; her voice filled with affectionate concern. "Aunt Paige, you love your art," she reminded her gently, a small smile playing on her lips as she reached out to comfort her aunt.
Paige shrugged, a sense of resignation in her demeanor. "Well, between witch work and 'work' work, I just don't have any time anymore," she explained, her words tinged with a hint of sadness. The demands of their magical lives often left little room for personal pursuits, a reality that Paige had come to accept, albeit reluctantly.
Phoebe's grin widened with excitement at the prospect of a new project. "This is perfect. We need a theme," she declared eagerly, striding over to Paige's side. "You're an artistic, creative type," she added, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.
Paige's confusion was evident as she glanced around at the others, seeking clarification. "A theme?" she questioned, her brow furrowing in uncertainty as she turned to Piper, Max, and Chloe for guidance.
Phoebe nodded enthusiastically, her excitement infectious as she ushered Paige towards the door, Chloe following close behind. "Yeah, I'll explain on the way," she promised, her voice brimming with anticipation. "Us theme. You two potion," she directed, pointing to Piper and Max with a sense of purpose.
Piper's annoyance simmered just below the surface as she watched Phoebe's energetic antics. "Me peeved. You annoying," she snapped, her frustration evident in her tone as she shot a glare in Phoebe's direction.
Max couldn't help but laugh at Piper's exasperation, her amusement evident as she threw an arm around her aunt's shoulders. "C'mon, Aunt Piper," she said with a playful grin, her voice filled with affection and understanding.
"You see how well this worked out?" Phoebe asked triumphantly, a grin spreading across her face as she and Paige hurriedly grabbed their bags and coats. Chloe, ever observant, opted for just her coat, sensing Piper's growing irritation.
"Phoebe, come on," Chloe advised in a low voice, her tone a mixture of caution and encouragement. With a nod from Chloe, Phoebe and Paige quickly made their way towards the door, eager to avoid any further confrontation.
Chloe led the way, heading towards her truck parked nearby, while Paige and Phoebe followed closely behind.
P3 to the Max
"Bev, I'm telling you, '40s Night' is perfect," Phoebe gushed enthusiastically, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she leaned forward, eager to sell her idea to the client. Chloe and Paige sat beside her, their expressions a mix of anticipation and curiosity as they waited for Bev's response. "I mean, think about it: the zoot suits, the saddle shoes, the patriotism, what more could you ask for?" she added, her voice brimming with enthusiasm.
Bev considered Phoebe's suggestion, her brow furrowing in contemplation. "Oh, I just don't know. I mean, weren't the '50s a little bit flashier?" she countered, her tone uncertain as she voiced her reservations.
Phoebe turned to Chloe and Paige, seeking their support. "Don't look at me, Phoebe," Chloe interjected with a playful smirk. "You see the way I look. Do you think I would look good in a 40's style dress?" she asked, gesturing to her blue hair, tattoos, and punk style. Despite Chloe's skepticism, Phoebe was determined to persuade her to embrace the theme for Max's sake.
Paige nodded in agreement; her eyebrows raised in acknowledgment. "Yeah," she chimed in; her tone measured. "If you want something that's been done a million times."
Bev's expression shifted; her curiosity piqued by Paige's remark. "Excuse me?" she asked, her tone tinged with offense.
Phoebe quickly intervened, attempting to smooth over the tension. "Honestly, Bev… I think the '40s is your era," she said with a warm smile, her words laced with flattery. Bev's eyebrows rose at the compliment, a hint of intrigue in her expression. "I mean, you already have this kind of Veronica Lake thing going on," Phoebe added, hoping to sway Bev with her charm and persuasion.
Bev chuckled, a hint of surprise coloring her expression. "I do?" she questioned, her amusement evident as she glanced between Phoebe, Chloe, and Paige.
Paige nodded enthusiastically; her excitement infectious. "Oh yeah," she affirmed, her tone brimming with enthusiasm. "Peekaboo hairdo, some nice pearl earrings… you're a dead ringer," she added with a grin, nodding in approval at Bev's potential transformation.
Bev's smile widened at Paige's words, a sense of satisfaction washing over her. With a playful flick of her hair, she chuckled softly. "Well… then…" she trailed off, her laughter bubbling up as she contemplated the idea of embracing the 1940s aesthetic.
Paige grinned mischievously, nudging Bev playfully. "Looks like someone has some shopping to do," she pointed out with a teasing smile, her eyes dancing with amusement.
"Yup," Phoebe chimed in, her voice filled with excitement as she rummaged through her bag and pulled out a card. "Here is the number for the costume place, and tell all your friends to dress there or be square," she instructed with a grin, passing the card to Bev as they all rose from their seats, ready to depart.
"Thanks, girls," Bev called after them, waving goodbye as she climbed the stairs and exited the club.
Phoebe and Paige exchanged a knowing glance as they turned to face Chloe, fully aware of the challenge ahead. They could see the skepticism etched on her face, a reflection of her pragmatic nature. As Piper and Max's manager, Chloe was accustomed to practicality, and they knew that convincing her to embrace the whimsical world of '40s Night' would be no easy feat.
"Hey, Chloe!" Phoebe chimed in, her voice brimming with enthusiasm. "You know, '40s Night' is shaping up to be a real blast!"
Chloe nodded; her expression thoughtful as she took another sip of her drink. "And you heard what I said a moment ago," she interjected, her tone tinged with nostalgia. "Once upon a time, I might have been into something like that. But those days are long behind me. I'm not the same person I was before my dad died, before Max moved with her adoptive parents to Seattle for five years."
Paige leaned in closer, her excitement undiminished by Chloe's reservations. "Come on, Chloe," she urged, her eyes shining with enthusiasm. "You should totally go with Max. She would love it. And it's a chance for you to step out of your comfort zone and have some fun!"
Chloe hesitated, her gaze shifting between Phoebe and Paige. "I'm not really into dressing up," she admitted, her voice tinged with uncertainty.
Undeterred, Phoebe and Paige exchanged another glance, silently vowing to persuade Chloe with their charm and creativity.
"But think about it, Chloe," Phoebe pressed on, her excitement contagious. "It's a chance to try something new, to embrace a different era. Plus, you'll look absolutely stunning in a '40s-style dress!"
Paige nodded in agreement; her enthusiasm undiminished. "Yeah, just imagine it," she continued, painting a vivid picture with her words. "You with your hair styled in classic victory rolls, wearing a glamorous vintage dress... You'll be the belle of the ball!"
Chloe sighed; her uncertainty palpable. "I just, I don't know," she confessed, her reservations still lingering despite Phoebe and Paige's persuasive efforts.
Phoebe and Paige exchanged a glance, recognizing that Chloe was still hesitant. They knew they had to find a way to break through her reservations.
"Chloe, we understand that it might feel daunting," Phoebe began gently, her voice laced with empathy. "But sometimes, the best memories are made when we step out of our comfort zones."
Paige nodded in agreement, her expression earnest. "Exactly. And '40s Night' could be an opportunity for you to reconnect with that part of yourself that you set aside," she added, her tone encouraging.
Chloe listened thoughtfully, her gaze drifting between her friends. She couldn't deny the appeal of their words, nor the sense of adventure that beckoned from the idea of immersing herself in a different era for a night.
"I guess you both have a point," Chloe conceded with a small smile, her resolve starting to soften. "Okay, I'll give it a try. But don't expect me to go all out with the costumes," she added with a chuckle, her practical nature asserting itself once again.
Phoebe and Paige exchanged triumphant smiles, relieved to see Chloe warming up to the idea. "That's all we ask," Phoebe replied, her voice brimming with excitement. "We'll make sure you have a fantastic time!"
"Ohh!" Phoebe cried in surprise as Cole descended the stairs, a mischievous grin playing on her lips. "If it isn't Mr. Sneak-Out-Of-Bed," she teased, her voice laced with amusement.
Cole nodded; his demeanor slightly sheepish as he toyed with his hands. "Yeah, I had some stuff to do," he replied, his tone casual.
"Yeah?" Phoebe inquired, a playful glint in her eyes as she pulled him close by his jacket. "What kind of stuff?"
Cole hesitated for a moment before embracing her tightly, but Phoebe quickly pulled away, her brow furrowing in concern. "What—what's that?" she asked, her gaze fixated on the lump at his belt.
Following her gaze, Cole looked down and nonchalantly pulled out a handgun, causing Chloe, Phoebe, and Paige to gasp in shock, instinctively backing away from him.
"What are you doing with that?" Phoebe demanded, her eyes wide with disbelief.
"Get that thing out of here," Chloe ordered, her voice tinged with urgency as memories flooded back of an alternate timeline where she had been shot and killed. The sight of the weapon sent a shiver down her spine, and she couldn't help but feel a surge of fear and unease at its presence.
"Oh, come on, you guys see worse than this every day," Cole frowned, attempting to downplay the seriousness of the situation.
Unnoticed by Paige, Phoebe, or Cole, Chloe was slowly edging away from the gun, her movements cautious and deliberate until she darted through the door into the office, seeking refuge from the unsettling sight.
Phoebe shook her head, her focus still on the weapon. "We see demons every day. There's a huge difference," she countered, her tone firm.
"There is? How?" Cole asked, his confusion evident in his voice as he struggled to understand the sisters' reactions.
"Well, for one thing..." Paige interjected, her expression serious, "...we're not likely to accidentally vanquish ourselves."
"Where did you get it?" Phoebe questioned, her concern mounting.
Cole's smirk faltered slightly as he considered his response. "Well, I may not be a demon anymore, but I still know where to find bad guys," he replied with a hint of pride, his words tinged with a mixture of defiance and bravado.
"Well, why don't you go 'find the bad guys' and give it back to them," Paige advised, her tone laced with disapproval.
Cole sighed; his expression troubled. "Look, I have to have a way to protect myself and the one I love," he explained, gesturing towards Phoebe.
Phoebe turned to him; her gaze unwavering. "Okay, I am not living in a house with a gun, Cole," she told him firmly.
Before Cole could respond, Leo appeared, orbing in behind him, catching everyone's attention.
"Hey," Leo greeted warmly, his presence bringing a sense of calm to the room.
Phoebe smiled at him, her eyes softening. "Hi. Piper's at home," she informed him.
"I know, I just talked to her and Max," Leo replied, his expression becoming more serious. "I came here to find you guys and Chloe." He glanced around the room. "Where is Chloe?"
Phoebe, Paige, and Cole exchanged worried glances before Phoebe spoke up. "She must have gone into the office," she said, her concern evident in her voice. "I'll be right back."
With that, Phoebe hurried into the back of the club, her footsteps echoing against the walls as she searched for Chloe, finding her huddled into a corner of Piper and Max's office, her expression troubled and distant.
"Chloe?" Phoebe said softly as she knelt before her niece's wife, her concern evident in her voice. "What's wrong?"
Chloe looked up, her eyes reflecting a mix of sadness and uncertainty. "Do you remember when you first met Max and me?" she asked, her voice tinged with emotion.
Phoebe's eyes widened in realization as memories flooded back. She vividly recalled the story Max and Chloe had shared with her, about Max using her rewind powers time and time again to save Chloe, including twice from being shot. The gravity of Chloe's question sank in, and Phoebe's heart clenched with empathy as she understood the weight of the memories haunting her niece's wife. She reached out, gently placing a comforting hand on Chloe's shoulder. "Yes, I remember," she replied softly, her voice tender. "Those were intense moments, but Max was always there for you, wasn't she?"
Chloe nodded, her eyes misting with tears. "Yes, she was," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. "But lately, I can't shake the feeling that... that I'm still in danger, even though we've left that life behind."
Phoebe squeezed Chloe's shoulder reassuringly, offering her support. "Chloe, I understand your fears, but you're not alone in this," she said, her voice filled with sincerity. "We'll do whatever it takes to keep you safe, just like Max did."
Chloe looked up at Phoebe, her expression vulnerable yet determined. "Thank you," she murmured, gratitude shining in her eyes. "I'm sorry for worrying everyone. I just... I needed a moment."
Phoebe smiled warmly, her heart going out to Chloe. "It's okay, Chloe. We're family, and family looks out for each other," she reassured her, her words carrying a sense of solidarity.
With a deep breath, Chloe nodded, a sense of resolve settling over her. "I know," she said, her voice steadier now. Together, they made their way back out into the main area of the club, where Leo awaited. "Hey, Leo," Chloe greeted him warmly, her earlier worries momentarily pushed aside.
"Hey, Chloe," Leo returned the greeting with a nod, his expression serious.
"So, was there an attack?" Cole interjected, redirecting the conversation to the reason Leo had orbed over.
"In a way..." Leo began, his tone grave. "Muses have been disappearing, and the Elders are very concerned."
"Muses?" Paige repeated, her surprise evident in her voice. "The ones who inspire creativity, they're real?"
"Yes," Leo affirmed firmly, his gaze unwavering. "And they are in very real danger. It would be a powerful evil to find a way to hurt a muse."
"Factions," Cole added, his tone pointed and his eyebrows raised knowingly, as the gravity of the situation began to sink in.
The five of them were so absorbed in their conversation that they failed to notice the warlock sent to kill Phoebe and Paige blink in behind one of the booth curtains, his sinister presence shrouded in the shadows.
"We better get back," Phoebe told Paige and Chloe, a sense of urgency creeping into her voice as she glanced around the club.
"What about the '40s Night'?" Paige reminded her, a hint of disappointment in her tone.
Phoebe waved her hand dismissively, determination evident in her gaze. "I'll call the decorator from Chloe's truck," she reassured them, her mind already racing with plans to ensure their safety.
"Alright, I'll meet you guys at home," Leo informed them, his expression serious as he prepared to delve deeper into the mystery surrounding the disappearing muses. "I'm gonna see what else I can find out."
"Oh, oh Leo!" Phoebe called out, halting him mid-orb. She swiftly moved to Cole's side, retrieving the gun from his hand with a determined expression.
"Come on!" Cole whined; his frustration evident as Phoebe passed the weapon to Leo.
Phoebe turned to Leo, her gaze earnest as she made her request. "Can you orb this to Darryl, please?" she asked sweetly, her voice tinged with urgency.
Leo nodded in understanding, accepting the weapon with a solemn nod. "Of course," he replied before turning to Cole. "I won't even ask," he added with a knowing look, shaking his head in disbelief.
Cole sighed, a mix of annoyance and resignation etched on his face as he followed Phoebe, Paige, and Chloe out of the club. Leo watched them go before orbing out himself.
As the group departed, a warlock smirked from his hidden vantage point, his eyes gleaming with malice. With a sinister chuckle, he morphed into the perfect replica of Leo before blinking out, his malevolent intentions concealed beneath a facade of deception.
Streets of San Francisco
Chloe navigated the streets with focused determination, her hands steady on the wheel as she drove away from the club. Paige sat beside her; her expression thoughtful as she glanced out the window at the passing scenery. Meanwhile, Phoebe found herself squeezed uncomfortably close to Cole, her voice barely above a whisper as she addressed him.
"Just so you know," Phoebe whispered to her boyfriend, her tone tinged with concern. "You sent Chloe into a panic attack with the sight of the gun."
Cole's gaze shifted past Phoebe and Paige to Chloe, who remained focused on the road ahead. As Phoebe's words sank in, he felt a pang of guilt wash over him, remembering the stories Max and Chloe had shared about their harrowing experiences in Arcadia Bay. He knew all too well the trauma that could linger long after such encounters, and he silently cursed himself for unintentionally triggering Chloe's distress.
"I didn't mean to," Cole murmured, his voice heavy with remorse as he reached out to gently touch Phoebe's hand, seeking solace in her comforting presence. "I'll make it right, I promise."
Phoebe offered him a reassuring smile; her eyes soft with understanding. "I know you will," she replied, her voice filled with unwavering confidence in him.
Halliwell Manor
Phoebe and Paige ascended the attic stairs, the familiar creak echoing with each step. Upon reaching the top, they found Piper and Max engrossed in the Book of Shadows, their brows furrowed in concentration.
"Hey," Phoebe greeted them brightly, a hint of excitement in her voice. "How's the protection potion coming along?" she inquired, her curiosity piqued.
Max remained focused on the ancient tome, her finger tracing the intricate patterns on its weathered pages, while Piper glanced up briefly to acknowledge Phoebe's presence. "Nonexistent," she replied bluntly, her tone tinged with frustration.
Phoebe's expression fell slightly, a hint of disappointment crossing her features. "Hey, we kept up our end of the deal," she protested, her hands resting defiantly on her hips as she met Piper's gaze.
Max nodded in agreement; her attention still fixed on the book. "We know," she confirmed, her voice calm and measured. "Bev called, and she's thrilled. Aunt Piper and I thank you. That said, we should move on to the muses."
Piper nodded in agreement, her lips pressing into a thin line. "Yes, it's her fault," she quipped, playfully jabbing Max in the side with her elbow. Her playful demeanor quickly faded as she noticed Chloe's absence. "Where is Chloe?" she inquired, her concern evident in her voice.
Phoebe's expression turned somber, her eyes flickering with worry. "She's in the garage loft," she explained, her voice tinged with regret. "She had a scare."
Max's head snapped up at the mention of Chloe's distress, her eyes widening with concern. "What kind of scare?" she demanded, her voice tinged with urgency as she awaited Phoebe's response, her thoughts racing with worry for her wife's well-being.
Phoebe's words hung heavy in the air, casting a shadow over the room as the gravity of the situation sank in. "Cole somehow got himself a gun," she explained, her voice tinged with disbelief and concern. "It sent her into a panic attack."
Max's eyes widened with shock at the revelation, her heart clenching with worry for Chloe's well-being. The thought of her wife in distress sent a wave of fear coursing through her veins, and she felt a surge of urgency to rush to Chloe's side.
Piper's expression darkened at the news, her features hardening with a mix of anger and concern. "How could he be so reckless?" she muttered under her breath, her mind racing with thoughts of the potential dangers posed by Cole's impulsive actions.
With the pressing matter of the muses momentarily set aside, Phoebe, Piper, Paige, and Max hurried through the house, their footsteps echoing in the hallway as they made their way to Max and Chloe's apartment. Bursting through the back door, they ascended the stairs with determined strides, their hearts racing with worry for Chloe.
As they entered the apartment, they found Chloe seated on the couch, her expression tense as she spoke into the phone. The sisters exchanged knowing glances, recognizing the familiar tone of Chloe's voice as she conversed with her sister Buffy.
Chloe looked up as they entered, her eyes meeting theirs with a mixture of relief and concern. "I'll call you back later," she said into the phone, her voice soft but resolute as she ended the call and set the phone aside.
"Is everything okay?" Max asked, her voice filled with concern as she crossed the room to join Chloe on the couch, her hand reaching out to grasp her wife's reassuringly.
Chloe offered them a small smile, though the tension in her shoulders betrayed her inner turmoil. "Yeah, just catching up with Buffy," she replied, her voice tinged with relief at the sight of her wife and her in-laws gathered around her.
Phoebe, Piper, and Paige exchanged relieved glances, their worry easing slightly at Chloe's words. "Phoebe and Paige told me and Max about what happened," Piper said softly, her voice filled with empathy as she took a seat beside Chloe on the couch. "Are you okay?"
Chloe nodded, her gaze flickering between her loved ones. "I'm fine," she assured them, though the tremor in her voice betrayed her attempt at bravado. "Just a little shaken up, is all."
Piper reached out to squeeze Chloe's shoulder reassuringly, her expression filled with concern. "If you need anything, we're here for you," she promised, her voice gentle but firm as she met Chloe's gaze with unwavering support.
Chloe offered them a grateful smile, her heart warmed by the unwavering love and support of her wife's family. "Thank you," she said softly, her voice filled with gratitude as she leaned into their comforting presence, finding solace in their embrace.
0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0
Paige, Piper, Phoebe, Max, and Chloe returned to the familiar surroundings of the attic; their minds focused on unraveling the mystery surrounding the muses. As they gathered around the Book of Shadows, Paige stepped forward, her gaze fixed on the ancient tome as she began to read aloud.
"Muses," Paige recited, her voice clear and steady. "Beings of pure light whose sole purpose is to inspire people's passion and creativity." She glanced up from the book, her brow furrowed in concentration. "Like angels that guide us with an unseen hand of inspiration."
Phoebe's brow furrowed in confusion as she processed Paige's words. "Wait, how can evil hurt someone who's invisible?" she questioned, her voice tinged with uncertainty.
Piper shrugged, her expression mirroring Phoebe's confusion. "I have no idea," she admitted, her voice filled with frustration. Beside her, Max shook her head in bewilderment. "A good place to start would be to ask a Muse, but we can't figure out how to summon one," Max added, her tone tinged with frustration.
As they pondered their next course of action, Phoebe's attention was suddenly drawn elsewhere. "Do you guys feel that?" she asked, her eyes widening with realization.
Chloe, Piper, and Paige exchanged puzzled looks, shaking their heads in confusion. "Feel what?" Chloe asked, her tone filled with curiosity as she looked to Phoebe for clarification.
Max nodded in agreement with Phoebe, her senses tingling with a strange sensation. "I do," she confirmed, her eyes scanning the room as she and Phoebe turned in a circle. "It's like a... wow, it's uh... it's like, like a feeling," Max struggled to articulate, her voice trailing off as she tried to put the sensation into words.
Piper observed her sister and niece with a mixture of amusement and concern as they continued to spin in a circle, seemingly lost in their own world. Beside her, Paige leaned in close to Chloe, a smirk playing on her lips as she whispered, "I think they've officially lost it." Chloe couldn't help but chuckle at Paige's comment, though she gently smacked her on the leg in mock disapproval.
Noticing Phoebe and Max's behavior, Piper furrowed her brow, her curiosity piqued. "Phoebe? Max? Whatcha two lookin' for?" she asked Phoebe and Max gently, her voice laced with curiosity.
Phoebe glanced around the room, her focus solely on the task at hand. Unperturbed by Paige's teasing, she replied confidently, "I think Max will agree that there's a muse somewhere in this room." Max nodded in agreement; her senses attuned to the presence they were seeking. "Being of creativity, show yourself now to me. Your light which shines upon our face, let our vision now embrace," Phoebe chanted spontaneously, her voice filled with determination.
To their astonishment, a beautiful woman with long brown hair dressed in blue materialized behind Phoebe. Phoebe beamed with pride at the success of her impromptu summoning. "I was hoping I could inspire one of you to do that," the Muse remarked with a warm smile. "I'm Melody," she introduced herself, her presence radiating a sense of creativity and inspiration.
Phoebe's grin widened as she introduced herself and her companions, but Melody's interruption caught her off guard. "Wow!" she gushed, momentarily taken aback. "I-I'm Phoebe," she continued, pointing to herself, "And this is—"
"I know who you girls are," Melody interjected gently before Phoebe could finish. "I've been inspiring you your whole lives," she added, her tone soft and reassuring. Her gaze shifted to Max and Phoebe, acknowledging them as well before moving toward Piper, Paige, and Chloe, who were gathered around the Book of Shadows. Phoebe and Max trailed behind her. "Now I was hoping you could help me," Melody said, her voice tinged with a hint of urgency.
Paige, standing with her hands casually tucked into her back pockets, wasted no time in cutting to the heart of the matter. "So, you're familiar with what's been happening to the Muses?" she inquired, her expression serious and determined.
Melody's response was immediate, her nod solemn and heavy with the weight of the truth. "Yes," she affirmed; her voice tinged with sorrow. "We were in the midst of inspiring a symphony when a friend of mine, a fellow muse, was captured," she explained, her tone laced with a palpable sense of loss. "I was fortunate enough to escape."
Chloe's brow furrowed with concern; her curiosity piqued by Melody's words. "Escape from what?" she pressed, her voice soft yet insistent, betraying her eagerness for answers.
Melody's expression darkened as she recounted the harrowing ordeal. "A warlock," she revealed, her voice heavy with resignation. "He laid claim to the Ring of Inspiration."
The gravity of Melody's revelation settled over the group like a shroud, Piper's confusion mirroring that of her companions. "The what?" she asked, her voice tinged with disbelief and bewilderment.
"It's a powerful artifact," Melody explained, her tone grave. "One that grants the wearer the ability to see and capture Muses." She paused, the weight of her words sinking in. "It was originally created by practitioners of good magic, intended to channel inspiration in times of dire need."
Paige pursed her lips, her mind working to process the implications of Melody's words. "So, a warlock... is that similar to a demon?" she asked, turning to her sisters for clarification.
Piper nodded in agreement; her expression somber. "Essentially, yes," she confirmed, her voice tinged with resignation.
Max muttered under her breath with a forced smile, "Well, isn't that just lovely."
"Hi," Phoebe greeted Leo with a warm smile as he strolled into the attic, her voice infused with a sense of familiarity and warmth. "I thought you were orbing?"
Leo's brow furrowed in confusion at her remark. "What?" he questioned; his tone laced with uncertainty.
"Melody, Leo," Phoebe introduced, gesturing towards the ethereal presence of the Muse beside her. "Whitelighter, Muse."
Leo's expression softened as he turned his attention towards Melody. "Nice to meet you," he greeted her.
"We go way back," Melody chimed in simultaneously.
Piper, Paige, Phoebe, Max, and Chloe exchanged puzzled glances, their brows furrowing in unison as they processed the exchange unfolding before them. Piper's eyes narrowed suspiciously as she regarded her husband with a scrutinizing gaze, her instincts on high alert.
"Right," Leo corrected himself with a small chuckle, sensing the tension in the air. "Good to see you again," he amended, his words carrying a note of reassurance as he sought to dispel any lingering doubts or concerns.
Phoebe shrugged slightly; her curiosity still piqued as she addressed her brother-in-law once more. "Have you ever heard of the Ring of Inspiration?"
Leo's brows furrowed in thought as he pondered her question. "I think so," he responded after a moment's hesitation, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "Red jewel?"
Max, always quick to pick up on inconsistencies, arched an eyebrow skeptically at Leo's response. "Isn't that something you would have normally mentioned earlier, Uncle Leo?" she questioned, her tone laced with suspicion as she placed a hand firmly on her hip.
Leo's demeanor faltered slightly under Max's scrutiny, a flicker of uncertainty crossing his features before he quickly regained his composure. "Right, um… yeah," he replied, his voice a touch unsteady as he summoned an athame into his hand.
Piper, sensing the tension in the air, glanced at Max, her expression mirroring her niece's apprehension. With a subtle tilt of her head, Max confirmed their shared suspicion – this wasn't the real Leo. "Leo!" Piper called out sharply, her voice cutting through the silence like a knife.
Leo turned towards her; his eyebrows raised in innocent confusion. "What?" he replied, his tone tinged with feigned innocence.
In an instant, the room was filled with a burst of blue and white orbs as the real Leo materialized behind Piper. Before anyone could react, the impostor posing as Leo lunged forward with deadly intent, the glint of the athame catching the dim light as it sliced through the air.
"Aunt Phoebe!" Max's desperate cry pierced the silence as she instinctively thrust her hand forward, bending the fabric of time itself to undo the deadly strike. In an instant, the athame was back in the fake Leo's grasp, poised once more to inflict harm.
With a swift and selfless motion, Max pushed Phoebe out of harm's way, her heart pounding in her chest as the blade found its mark in her own stomach. The shock and pain ripped through her, but she pushed past it, her only thought to protect her aunt.
"Max!" Chloe's voice rang out in a panicked scream as she, Leo, and Piper rushed to her side. Chloe caught her wife in her arms as Max crumpled to the ground, her vision swimming with pain and disorientation.
The warlock's form flickered and shifted, revealing his true, sinister visage as he advanced on Phoebe and Paige. In a blur of movement, Cole burst into the attic. "Paige, behind you!" his voice reverberated with urgency as Paige reacted without hesitation, her body disappearing in a burst of light just as the warlock's attack would have struck.
But the warlock wasn't finished yet. Turning his attention back to Phoebe, he launched another vicious assault, embedding the athame into her shoulder with a sickening thud. Phoebe cried out in agony as the blade was swiftly withdrawn, leaving behind a trail of searing pain.
Piper's resolve ignited like a flame within her, her grief and fury fueling her powers as she rose to her feet. With a primal scream, she unleashed the full force of her exploding power, vanquishing the warlock in a blinding flash of light. His athame exploded with him, the echoes of his malevolent presence dissipating into nothingness.
Phoebe winced, her breath catching in a sharp inhale as she turned to face Piper, her left hand pressing firmly against the searing pain in her bleeding shoulder. Meanwhile, Leo worked swiftly, his focus unwavering as he channeled healing energy into Max's potentially fatal wound.
"You okay?" Piper's concern was evident in her voice as she glanced over at Phoebe, her brows furrowed with worry.
Max, still shaking off the lingering effects of the injury, managed a slight nod as she looked up at Phoebe. "You okay, Aunt Phoebe?" she inquired, her own concern mirrored in her eyes.
Phoebe forced a pained smile, her gaze meeting Max's with gratitude. "I'll be fine," she assured her niece, though her tone held a note of impatience. "As soon as Leo gets his ass over here!" she added, the frustration seeping into her voice as she gestured pointedly toward her injured shoulder.
Leo, startled by Phoebe's sharp remark, jumped up from where he was tending to Max, quickly moving to attend to Phoebe's injury as Paige orbed back into the room.
Paige let out a startled cry as she brought her hands down from her face, her eyes wide with shock and confusion. "What was that?" she exclaimed, her voice trembling with the lingering adrenaline of the encounter.
"That was a warlock," Cole replied grimly, his gaze flickering to Paige as she moved to stand next to Melody.
Piper, her attention divided between her injured sister and niece, turned to Melody with a furrowed brow. "Was that the warlock who captured your friend?" she inquired, her voice tinged with a mixture of frustration and concern as she sought answers amidst the chaos.
Melody shook her head solemnly, her expression heavy with sorrow. "No," she replied quietly, her gaze dropping to the floor.
"They must be working together," Chloe remarked, her voice tinged with a mix of frustration and determination as she offered a supportive hand to help Max to her feet.
"Were," Phoebe corrected, her tone firm as she tentatively massaged her now-healed but still-aching shoulder. "They were working together."
"That, ladies," Cole interjected, his voice cutting through the tension as he strode confidently towards the group, "is what you call a faction." His words carried a smug undertone, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips as he relished the opportunity to impart his knowledge.
Phoebe rolled her eyes in exasperation, her patience wearing thin as she shot Cole a pointed look. Piper let out a weary sigh, her frustration evident in the tension of her shoulders, while Paige's brow furrowed in suspicion as she regarded him with a wary gaze.
Max's eyebrows shot up in disbelief as she turned to face Cole, her stance defiant as she placed one hand firmly on her hip. "You're looking smug," she deadpanned, her voice laced with sarcasm. "Don't get smug, it doesn't suit you. Just like scaring my wife with that gun you managed to somehow acquire doesn't suit you."
"And I intend to make up for that," Cole declared, his gaze shifting briefly to Chloe before returning to Phoebe with a determined glint in his eyes. "In fact, if Phoebe will lend me her credit card, I think I have a way of making it up."
Phoebe arched an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued as she turned to look at her boyfriend. "Why?" she inquired, her tone soft yet questioning, a hint of skepticism coloring her words.
"'40s night," Cole replied with a playful grin, his eyes alight with excitement. Phoebe's expression softened as understanding dawned, a fond smile tugging at the corners of her lips.
"It's in my purse," Phoebe confirmed with a nod.
0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0
"Piper?" Phoebe called out to her sister as she, Paige and Max hurriedly descended the stairs after Piper; Leo, Chloe, Cole, and Melody close on their heels. "Where are you going? We have to make a plan," Phoebe continued, her voice tinged with urgency, as they reached the bottom of the staircase.
"I have a plan," Piper retorted, coming to a stop and turning to face the group as they gathered around her. "To cook. Now that I know what we're up against, I can practically taste the potion," she explained, her expression determined despite the uncertainty of their situation. "I don't know what it does, but it tastes pretty good."
Paige gasped quietly, a realization dawning on her. "I can't believe I almost threw away my paints," she whispered, her steps carrying her towards her canvases. Melody offered her a reassuring smile.
"I'm gonna write a vanquishing spell," Phoebe declared, her voice brimming with determination as she strode purposefully towards the dining table, snatching up a large notebook and pen. "Actually, I have to write a vanquishing spell," she corrected herself, her brow furrowing in concentration as she began to jot down the words that flowed from her mind. "I keep hearing rhyming in my head. Are you doing that?" she asked, her gaze flicking up to meet Melody's briefly before returning to the paper.
Melody's smile widened at Phoebe's question. "Oh, no, you're doing that," she reassured her, her voice gentle and encouraging. "I'm just helping it come out."
Phoebe nodded in understanding, a sense of empowerment coursing through her veins. "Oh yes, you do, without a doubt," she agreed enthusiastically, her confidence growing with each word she penned.
Melody turned to Leo; her expression thoughtful. "I think I should probably leave," she suggested, a hint of reluctance in her voice.
"Yes," Max agreed with a firm nod, her tone resolute. "Go away," she ordered, her gaze turning to Melody with a mix of determination and urgency.
"Max!" Piper chided her niece, her voice tinged with reproach, while Phoebe and Paige gasped in surprise at Max's blunt dismissal.
"I—" Max began to apologize, but she hesitated, her thoughts clearly elsewhere as she turned back to Melody. "I-I'm sorry, that was rude," she apologized, her words sounding distracted, mirroring the preoccupation of her aunts.
Chloe, ever perceptive when it came to her wife, interjected with insight. "I think I understand what's going through Max's head right now," she said, her tone gentle yet knowing. "With you around, Melody, all she can think about is her dark room and her camera."
Chloe's words resonated with Max, who nodded in agreement. "And all I want to do is grab my camera and go out and just… take pictures of anything and everything," she explained with a wistful smile, her expression clouding with concern. "Which is bad because I should be thinking about demons and potions and spells and weapons and game plans, but I-I can't with you around, so..." Max trailed off, her smile faltering slightly as she addressed Melody once more. "Go away… please," she added quickly, her voice filled with a mixture of apology and urgency.
Melody nodded understandingly, her gaze sweeping over the five women gathered before her. "It's okay. I'm not meant to stay in one place for too long," she explained, her tone gentle yet tinged with a hint of sadness. "The, uh... inspiration gets a little intense."
"Okay, but that's good," Piper interjected, her tone firm as she locked eyes with Melody. "If the warlocks are enslaving other muses to inspire them, then we need all the help we can get," she argued, her words carrying a sense of determination and resolve.
Leo shook his head, poised to offer his thoughts, but Paige interjected before he could speak. "I think I know how to get the ring," she announced, her voice tinged with determination.
"You do?" Max turned towards her youngest aunt, her eyes widening with anticipation.
Paige nodded confidently. "Can you describe the warlock to me?" she directed her question to Melody, her gaze focused and intent.
"I think so," Melody replied, her eagerness to assist evident in her warm smile.
"What are you gonna do?" Leo's voice cut through the conversation from his spot on the stairs, his curiosity piqued.
"I'm going to draw him," Paige declared, gesturing towards her canvases with a sense of purpose.
Before anyone could react, Cole's sudden announcement brought the room to a standstill. "I think Leo should orb me underground," he declared, his words hanging in the air with a weight that demanded attention.
"What?" Phoebe cried out in disbelief, looking up at Cole from her notepad, her expression a mix of surprise and concern.
"I can find out who the faction leader is," Cole explained eagerly, his eyes shining with determination. "I may not have my powers anymore, but I still know the terrain."
"Yeah, and you may just find yourself in everlasting pain!" Phoebe retorted tersely, her words dripping with apprehension and worry.
"That's a rhyme," Paige pointed out with a small chuckle, her attempt to lighten the mood falling flat in the tense atmosphere.
"Yeah," Phoebe cringed, a note of frustration creeping into her voice. "I'm sorry, now's not the time," she rhymed again, her brows furrowing with irritation. "Oh!"
"Cole," Piper interjected, turning to address her sister's boyfriend with a thoughtful expression. "If you go underground, you will be a sitting duck without your powers."
"I'm a sitting duck up here as well," Cole argued, his frustration evident as he strode towards Piper, his hand coming to rest on her shoulder in a gesture of reassurance. "At least this way... I can be useful."
Piper's frown deepened, her reaction swift as she deftly swiped Cole's hand from her shoulder, a clear indication of her disapproval.
"Cole," Phoebe stepped forward, her tone firm yet compassionate. "You are useful, alive!" she exclaimed, her voice carrying a note of urgency. "It's just now you have to be the brains behind the operation, not the brawn."
Cole's frown deepened at Phoebe's words. "Well, is there some rule that says I have to choose?" he whined petulantly, his frustration bubbling to the surface.
"Well, I could make one up," Phoebe offered with a nonchalant shrug, her tone laced with a hint of amusement. "But it would just be a ruse."
Before Melody could interject, Chloe cut her off with a surprising declaration. "I think Cole has a point," she informed the group, her tone thoughtful and contemplative.
"Excuse me!" Phoebe exclaimed, her anger simmering just below the surface as she bristled at Chloe's unexpected support of Cole's argument.
"Chloe!" Max warned, her glare fixed firmly on her wife, a mixture of frustration and disbelief evident in her eyes.
Chloe raised her hands in a placating gesture. "Well, he used to be a demon, right?" she reasoned, her tone tinged with uncertainty.
"I see where Chloe is going," Paige interjected, her expression thoughtful as she considered the implications. "He was a half-demon that's probably lived for about a century, so that means he knows his way around 'down there' pretty well. And we can use all the help we can get."
"And you guys do let me help, and unless I'm ever called as a Slayer, I'm just as mortal as Cole," Chloe added, her voice calm and reasoned.
"No!" Phoebe interjected, her voice rising with urgency. "The point is bounty hunters haven't been attacking because they think he's dead!" she cried, gesturing to Cole with frustration. "If he goes down to the underworld—"
"I'M STILL HERE!" Cole's voice boomed, cutting through Phoebe's words with a surge of frustration and defiance.
"Cole!" Max cried out angrily, her strides purposeful as she moved towards him, her eyes blazing with intensity. "If you go underground, and anyone sees you, you will be back on the demonic radar!" she pointed out tersely, her tone edged with warning. "Only this time you will not have anything to protect yourself, meaning it will be up to us to save your ass, and I've got better ways to spend my time!" she snapped, her glare fixed firmly on him as she issued her stark ultimatum.
Phoebe narrowed her eyes at her niece, a flicker of concern mingling with frustration as she addressed her boyfriend. "It's starting to seem like you have some kind of a death wish."
"And it seems to me like you won't be happy until I don an apron and become your houseboy," Cole retorted with a smart remark, his tone laced with sarcasm and defiance.
"HEY!" Leo's voice boomed, cutting through the tension and stealing their attention. "Here is the thing, guys," he interjected firmly, his tone authoritative yet tempered with understanding. "Every time there is a muse around, passions tend to run a little higher."
"A lot higher," Melody chimed in, her voice gentle yet firm as she offered her insight.
"So, let's keep that in mind in our communications with each other, okay?" Leo concluded, his gaze sweeping from person to person in an attempt to restore a sense of unity amidst the discord.
"Okay," Max agreed, her voice steady as she took a deep breath to calm her racing thoughts. "Aunt Phoebe, you and Chloe, go write the spell. Aunt Piper, you're with me on the potion, and Aunt Paige, you go draw this guy," she instructed, her tone firm yet measured. Then, turning to Cole, she added slowly, "You are going to join me and Aunt Piper in the kitchen and tell us everything you know about Warlocks, so we can make the potion." Her tone left no room for argument as she concluded with a pointed "Comprendi?"
With that, everyone scattered: Paige and Melody disappearing upstairs, and Piper heading to the kitchen with Max close behind.
"We'll talk about this later," Cole informed Phoebe quietly before turning away.
"Alligator," Phoebe added involuntarily, her words a reflexive response to the tension, and Cole whirled back around in surprise.
"COLE!" Max's voice snapped from the kitchen, demanding his attention, and he quickly shirked away, retreating into the task at hand.
Leo shook his head wearily as Phoebe and Chloe walked past him, climbing the stairs slowly. He sighed, suddenly feeling drained by the intensity of the recent exchange.
Piper muttered under her breath as she flung ingredients into the numerous pots bubbling on the stove. "What I don't understand," she said, her brow furrowing in confusion, "is why a warlock would even want that ring."
Cole shot her an incredulous look, his eyes widening in disbelief. "Are you kidding?" he questioned, watching as Piper shook her head, her expression remaining puzzled. Cole's eyebrows shot up higher as he glanced between Piper, Max, and Leo. "Evil never gets to feel a muse's inspiration," he explained, his voice tinged with a mix of awe and urgency. "I can tell you; I've never felt anything like it in my life."
Leo, intrigued, rose from his chair and asked curiously, "What does it feel like?"
Cole turned to him, eyes wide and animated. "It was like a power surge, an overdose of adrenaline," he said, his voice filled with fervor. "These warlocks must be sucking it up, so whatever you're doing, please do it fast." His tone grew serious as he continued, "Because I promise they'll be back."
Max chuckled to herself, clearly amused by Cole's energetic behavior, while Piper scowled at him, her patience wearing thin. "Look, buddy," Piper snapped, her voice sharp. "I'm making this up as I go along, so power surge or no, you're going to have to be patient." Her tone softened slightly, becoming more sympathetic. "Just like you're gonna have to be patient with Phoebe on the marriage front."
Cole frowned, taken aback by the sudden change of topic. "I… I don't think that's any of your business," he stammered, clearly startled.
Piper and Max froze, their movements halting as they turned to fix sharp and piercing glares on him, heads tilted to the side in a silent but powerful display of unity and disapproval.
Leo cleared his throat, breaking the tension in the air. "You don't know sisters or nieces very well, do you?" he asked rhetorically, his tone carrying a gentle chiding.
Max stepped forward, her tone abrupt and assertive. "The fact that Aunt Phoebe's my aunt and Aunt Piper's sister makes it our business," she explained. "We want Aunt Phoebe to be happy after all."
Piper, her voice softening but still firm, addressed Cole directly. "Cole, you're struggling, right?" she asked, already assuming the answer. "Trying to figure out how to be this new person?" she continued, her eyes searching his. Cole laughed nervously, the sound brittle.
"I thought we were here to talk about warlocks?" Cole said, turning to Leo with desperation in his voice, seeking an escape from the uncomfortable conversation.
Leo exhaled sharply; his expression sympathetic yet resolute. "No," he answered simply, his tone leaving no room for argument.
Cole frowned, looking back at Piper and Max, hoping for some sign of reprieve. Instead, he found them both shaking their heads 'no' in unison, their expressions unwavering.
Max continued; her voice softer but laden with meaning. "What you don't get," she said, pausing for emphasis, "is that Aunt Phoebe is trying to do the exact same thing."
"Exactly," Piper nodded once, her expression thoughtful. "She's always been the youngest sister, the eternal child—carefree, fun-loving—"
"And?" Cole interjected impatiently, cutting off Piper mid-thought. Piper frowned at the interruption.
Leo stepped in smoothly, his voice calm and measured. "And then in a minute, she lost Prue, discovered Paige and Max, and suddenly became a big sister as well as an aunt," he explained, his words carrying a weight of understanding.
Piper nodded in agreement. "And to top it all off, you proposed," she added pointedly, emphasizing the word 'proposed' with a meaningful glance. "The idea of marriage, being that much of a grownup, is terrifying to Phoebe."
"Did she say that?" Cole asked, genuinely curious about Phoebe's feelings.
"No, but she doesn't have to," Piper replied firmly. "I'm her big sister; I've known her only—oh—her whole life."
Cole leaned closer to Leo, his voice lowered as he muttered urgently, "Can I talk to you?" He jerked his head to the side, indicating he wanted a private conversation.
Leo glanced briefly at Piper and Max, understanding the need for discretion, and nodded knowingly. He followed Cole out of the kitchen, leaving the women behind.
Piper tossed another handful of ingredients into a pot, which promptly exploded. Both women jumped in surprise, then Piper grinned proudly. "See what a little patience will get you," she remarked wryly, turning to address the men—only to find them gone. She looked at Max with a puzzled expression. "Where'd they go?" she asked, scanning the kitchen.
Max shrugged, equally baffled. She glanced around the room, searching for any sign of where Leo and Cole might have disappeared to.
0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0
"I'm asking a favor, Leo," Cole said quietly, his hands tucked into his pockets. "Man to man."
Leo nodded, a knowing look in his eyes. "You want me to talk to Phoebe?" he guessed, giving Cole a light punch on the shoulder.
Cole shook his head, his expression serious. "I want you to orb me underground."
Leo's smile faded, concern creasing his brow. "Cole, that's the inspiration talking," he explained calmly, trying to reason with him.
Cole shrugged, a hint of urgency in his voice. "Maybe so, but think about it, Leo. Their big plan right now is to draw the warlock," he exclaimed, fighting back a nervous laugh and failing to suppress his anxiety.
Leo frowned, his tone firm. "Piper, Phoebe, and Paige are the Charmed Ones, and Max is the heir to their legacy," he reminded Cole, his voice carrying a hint of offense. "I trust that they know what they're doing."
"Just listen," Cole pleaded, his eyes searching Leo's for understanding. "I can't be certain, but I think that warlock used demonic powers."
"Which means he killed a demon to get them," Leo concluded, his own thoughts racing as he caught onto Cole's train of thought. "Aren't there laws against that?" he asked, surprised by the implications.
"It's punishable by death," Cole confirmed solemnly. "Now, I know where the demons will convene to discuss this treason," he informed Leo, his voice low and intense. "They probably know by now which warlock is behind it. All we have to do..." He paused, throwing a conspiratorial arm around Leo's shoulders, "...is listen."
Leo smiled knowingly. "And not be seen," he added, understanding the delicate nature of their mission.
Cole nodded confidently. "We can go now and be back before anybody notices," he suggested casually, as if it were a simple errand.
Leo's eyes widened with a mixture of amusement and caution. "Oh, they're gonna notice," he corrected, his tone tinged with resignation. "And then they're going to kill me," he concluded matter-of-factly, before using his powers to orb himself and Cole out of the room.