Charmed: Elizabeth Turner

by Brenna's Urbangirl Projects

Born with a sense of otherness, Elizabeth 'Buffy' Turner navigates her dual nature as a half-demon alongside her brother Cole, training rigorously to harness her powers while yearning for a life beyond servitude to the dark forces shaping their destiny.

24. Chapter 24: Charmed Again Part 1

Chapter 24: Charmed Again Part 1

May 25, 1998 – Monday

Halliwell Manor

Prue stood in the attic of her family home, the soft glow of the morning light filtering through the old, dust-covered windows. The faint scent of herbs and aged parchment surrounded her as she leaned over the Book of Shadows, her brow furrowed in deep concentration. For the past five days, this ancient tome had consumed her thoughts, the "To Call A Lost Witch" spell drawing her back again and again like a haunting melody she couldn't escape.

Her grandmother's insistence on the spell—twice now—was maddening. Penelope Halliwell's ghostly request earlier that morning had been as cryptic as ever, leaving Prue with more questions than answers. She couldn't make sense of it, and yet, some part of her whispered that she already knew.

The thought sent a chill down her spine. If what she suspected was true, it would unravel everything. Her life, her family, her destiny—all of it would shift, and not necessarily for the better.

Prue's fingers tightened around the edges of the podium, her knuckles whitening as she squeezed hard. Her eyes snapped shut, blocking out the swirling symbols and faded ink on the page. No, she told herself, the word like a mantra. I can't go there. Not yet.

She let out a slow, shaky breath, trying to calm the storm raging inside her. If her suspicions were correct, revealing them would be catastrophic. Piper's gentle heart would break, and Phoebe, so hopeful and full of love, would be utterly crushed. Prue couldn't bear to put them through that—not until she was absolutely certain.

With a deep sigh, she forced herself to close the Book of Shadows, the heavy thud echoing in the silent attic. Her gaze lingered on the cover, her heart aching at the sight of the broken Triquetra. The once-unified symbol of their sisterhood was now fractured, its three interlocking circles separated. It had happened right after she'd performed the spell again that morning, and every time she looked at it, the sight made her stomach twist.

Her fingers brushed lightly over the marred symbol, tracing its edges as though she could will it back to wholeness. The longing in her chest was unbearable, an ache that wouldn't let up. Her family was her everything, her strength, her anchor, and yet she felt them slipping further away with every unanswered question.

Prue shifted on her feet, her movements stiff and deliberate. A sharp twinge shot through her ribs, and she winced, her body still sore from the attack the week before. She clenched her fists at her sides, biting back a groan of frustration. The pain was a constant reminder of how vulnerable they had been, how close they had come to losing everything.

The faint sound of an alarm broke through her thoughts, its piercing tone cutting through the quiet. Prue instinctively glanced down at her watch, her heart skipping a beat when she realized the time.

"Shit," she muttered under her breath, her pulse quickening. If she was going to sneak out to attend Dr. Griffiths' funeral before her sisters woke, she needed to leave immediately. She couldn't risk explaining her reasons for going—especially not now, not when so much was already unraveling.

Just as she moved toward the attic door, a familiar voice stopped her in her tracks.

"Prue?" Buffy's groggy voice came from the hallway, soft and tinged with sleep.

Prue turned, her eyes falling on her girlfriend, who stood in the doorway of her bedroom. Buffy rubbed her eyes, her golden hair tousled from sleep as she leaned against the doorframe.

"What are you doing up so early?" Buffy asked, her tone warm but laced with curiosity. She tilted her head slightly, studying Prue with a mixture of concern and affection.

Prue froze for a moment, her mind racing as she tried to come up with an explanation that wouldn't raise any alarms. She swallowed hard, forcing a small smile onto her face. "I just couldn't sleep," she said, her voice steadier than she felt inside.

Buffy's brow furrowed, and she stepped closer, her gaze softening as she reached out to touch Prue's arm. "Is everything okay?"

Prue hesitated, her heart clenching at the concern in Buffy's eyes. She opened her mouth to respond, but the weight of her secrets pressed heavily on her chest, silencing her. "Yeah," she said finally, her voice quieter now. "I just… needed some air."

Buffy didn't look entirely convinced, but she nodded slowly, her fingers lingering briefly before she let her hand drop. "Okay," she said softly, though her expression made it clear she wasn't going to let this go.

Prue forced another smile, the ache in her chest growing as she turned toward the stairs. She could feel Buffy's gaze on her back as she descended, each step feeling heavier than the last. This wasn't a conversation she was ready to have—not yet. But she knew, deep down, that the truth couldn't stay hidden forever.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Piper came bounding down the stairs, her slippers barely muffling the hurried rhythm of her steps. She had one goal in mind—coffee. The smell of the freshly brewed pot was already wafting through the air, leading her like a beacon toward the kitchen. She rounded the corner, fully expecting to see her older sister, Prue, seated at the kitchen table or leaning against the counter with her signature cup of coffee in hand, maybe the newspaper spread out in front of her. But the room was eerily empty.

Piper came to a halt, her brows knitting together in confusion. "Huh," she muttered under her breath, narrowing her eyes as she scanned the room. It didn't add up. She stepped further into the kitchen, noticing the telltale signs of Prue's early-morning routine. The coffee pot was half full, steam still curling lazily into the air. The newspaper sat neatly folded on the counter, a fresh crease running through it.

"Coffee's made, newspaper's brought in," Piper murmured, a frown steadily forming on her face. "Prue has definitely been here." Her voice carried a note of suspicion, her arms crossing tightly over her chest as she tried to piece together the puzzle.

"Morning," came a groggy croak from behind her.

Piper turned to see Phoebe stumbling into the room, her hair a messy tangle and her hands rubbing at itchy, tired eyes. Still in her pajamas, she looked like she'd been dragged straight from a restless sleep.

Phoebe stopped in her tracks, blinking a few times as her eyes landed on the vacant kitchen. Her face scrunched up in confusion. "Hey! Where's Prue?" she asked, her voice still hoarse but edged with curiosity.

Piper turned on her heel to face her younger sister, her hands finding their way to her hips in full "concerned big sister" mode. "Exactly what I wanna know, Phoebe," she said, her tone pointed as her frown deepened.

Before Phoebe could respond, another groggy voice joined the conversation.

"Morning," Buffy muttered as she walked into the kitchen, her hair disheveled and her movements slow. She headed straight for the coffee pot like it was the only thing keeping her upright.

Piper's sharp eyes darted to the half-demon Slayer. "Do you know where your girlfriend is?" she asked, her tone tinged with accusation.

Buffy paused mid-pour, the rich aroma of the coffee filling the room as she poured herself a cup. She glanced at Piper through tired eyes, her voice soft and still heavy with sleep. "She left early," Buffy explained, setting the coffee pot back on the burner. "Said something about needing to get some fresh air."

Piper's frown didn't waver as she exchanged a concerned glance with Phoebe. "Fresh air?" she repeated, her tone skeptical. "Since when does Prue leave for fresh air before sunrise?"

Phoebe shrugged, still too groggy to think straight, but even she could sense something was off. Buffy, cradling her coffee cup in her hands, took a sip and leaned against the counter, watching them both carefully.

"Do you know why?" Piper pressed, her eyes narrowing at Buffy.

Buffy shook her head. "Not really. She didn't say much," she admitted. "Just that she needed to clear her head."

Piper huffed in frustration, throwing her hands up. "Of course she didn't say much," she muttered. "This is Prue we're talking about. She's practically the queen of cryptic behavior."

Phoebe stepped forward, her expression softening. "Do you think she's okay?" she asked, her concern now fully evident in her voice.

Buffy hesitated, her lips pressing into a thin line as she considered the question. "I don't know," she admitted finally, her voice quiet. "But I think… something's definitely on her mind."

"Morning!" Leo greeted with his usual upbeat energy as he strode into the room, his smile as bright as the morning sunlight filtering through the windows. He moved toward the coffee pot with an ease born of routine, pausing just long enough to press a quick kiss to Piper's cheek before reaching for a clean mug. The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the kitchen as he poured himself a cup.

"Morning, Leo," Phoebe mumbled through a yawn, her voice thick with the remnants of sleep. She slumped slightly in her chair, still clutching her own mug for warmth and comfort.

Leo took a sip of his coffee, savoring the warmth, but his cheerful expression faltered as he caught sight of the tension etched across Piper's face. Her furrowed brow and stiff posture spoke volumes, and the worry in her eyes was impossible to miss.

"What?" Leo asked, his brow creasing in concern as he set his mug down on the counter. "What'd I miss?"

Piper's response was immediate and clipped, her voice tight with worry. "Prue's gone," she said, crossing her arms tightly over her chest. "And we have no idea where she is! Buffy was just saying she had to get some fresh air."

Leo's eyes instinctively flicked to the fridge, his mind working quickly to fill in the gaps. He took a step toward it, his frown deepening. "Uh… why don't you just… read the note she… left you?" he suggested, his tone cautious as he reached for a bright post-it stuck to the fridge door. Pulling it free, he passed it to Piper.

Piper snatched the note from him, her eyes scanning the words quickly. Her lips pressed into a tight line as she finished reading, and when she finally spoke, her voice was laced with heavy sarcasm. "Well… that was helpful. Thank you very much, Prue!"

"Let me see that!" Phoebe interjected, leaning forward to grab the note from Piper's hand. She held it up and read it aloud, her voice tinged with skepticism. "'Gone out early, had somewhere to be. Home by late lunchtime.'" She frowned as she reread the note silently, flipping it over as if hoping for more information on the back. "Yeah, that's not helpful," she concluded with a shake of her head.

"Where the hell did she go?" Piper burst out, her frustration bubbling to the surface. Her eyes darted between Phoebe, Leo, and Buffy, searching for answers, but all she got in return was a shrug from Buffy, who was leaning against the counter with her coffee in hand.

Phoebe sighed heavily, standing to pour herself another cup of coffee. She busied herself with adding milk and sugar, her movements slow and deliberate, before returning to her seat at the table. "What does it matter, Piper?" she asked, stirring her coffee absently. "Why are you so worried? Prue's a big girl; she can take care of herself."

"Why am I—uh, Shax!" Piper exclaimed, her voice rising an octave. She threw her hands up in exasperation, her eyes wide as she glared at her younger sister. "Is he a big enough reason for ya? Prue may be a big girl, Phoebe, but against him, on her own? She's a dead girl."

The color drained from Phoebe's face at the mention of Shax, the weight of Piper's words settling heavily in the room. For a moment, the only sound was the quiet hum of the fridge and the faint clink of Phoebe's spoon against her mug.

"And while we're on the subject of Shax," Piper continued, her tone sharpening as she switched gears, "where the hell is he?" She turned her gaze to Leo and then to Buffy, her hands now planted firmly on her hips. "It's been days now, and he still hasn't attacked!"

Phoebe blinked, her brows shooting up in disbelief. "And you're not happy about that?" she asked, her voice incredulous.

Piper straightened, her expression shifting to something almost defensive. "No. Of course I'm happy about it," she said quickly, her tone softening slightly. "It just… makes me uneasy." She hesitated, her eyes flicking to Buffy, the memory of their last encounter with Shax still fresh in her mind. "Especially when the last time he wanted to kill you."

Buffy set her mug down, the faint clatter breaking the silence that followed. She exchanged a glance with Piper, her expression grim but resolute. "I'm not exactly thrilled about it either," she admitted quietly, her voice carrying the weight of her own unease.

Phoebe nodded her understanding, her fingers absently tracing the rim of her coffee mug. "Maybe you and Prue wounded him worse than you thought you did," she suggested, her tone light but hopeful, as she gave a small shrug. Turning to Leo and Buffy for support, she asked, "Right?"

Leo looked thoughtful for a moment, then nodded. "It's possible," he agreed, his tone measured as he reached for his bagel. Taking a bite, he chewed slowly, clearly pondering the scenario.

Piper, however, was not so easily swayed. Her lips pressed into a thin line, and her arms crossed over her chest as she shook her head. "I still think staying together is the safest option," she insisted, her voice firm and leaving no room for argument.

Phoebe bobbed her head in agreement, though her expression remained neutral, trying to keep the tension from rising further. "I thought Prue agreed too… obviously not!" Piper added, the frustration evident in her tone.

Phoebe leaned forward slightly, her voice calm and soothing. "I'm sure Prue has a good reason, Piper," she said, her eyes warm with reassurance. "I mean, come on… it is Prue we're talkin' about here," she added with a raised brow and the faintest hint of a smirk tugging at her lips.

The corner of Piper's mouth twitched upward despite herself, and for a fleeting moment, she allowed a small smile to break through. She nodded once, the tension in her shoulders easing ever so slightly. "Yeah. You're right, Pheebs," she admitted, her voice softer now. But as quickly as her smile appeared, her frown returned, worry etching itself back into her features. "I'll feel better once she's home."

Buffy, who had been quietly observing, set her coffee cup down with a soft clink against the counter. "Tell you what," she said, her voice cutting through the room with a decisive tone. "If Leo helps me by sensing Prue's location, I'll go check on her."

The suggestion seemed to momentarily lighten the mood, though the concern lingering in Piper's eyes didn't entirely fade. She looked between Buffy and Leo, her lips parting as if to argue, but then closed them again, seemingly weighing her options.

South Bay Social Services

A beautiful young woman with shoulder-length brunette hair, pale skin that seemed to glow under the fluorescent office lights, and deep hazel eyes that held a spark of curiosity sat at her desk, her fingers flying over the keyboard. The gentle clack of the keys filled her small cubicle as she worked with quiet focus. Dressed in a flattering cream blouse that highlighted her graceful collarbones, a light denim skirt that swished gently as she moved, and a pair of wedge shoes that gave her petite frame a subtle lift, she looked effortlessly polished despite the long day.

"Printing!" she announced loudly from her cubicle, her voice cutting through the quiet hum of the office. Pushing back her chair, she began to rise from her seat when something unusual caught her attention.

A sudden, inexplicable breeze stirred the still air around her. It wasn't the kind of draft that came from an open window—this one felt oddly deliberate, carrying a faint whisper of something she couldn't quite place. Her eyes shifted toward the shelf above her desk just in time to see the small, flickering flame of a candle slowly sputter out, leaving a faint wisp of smoke curling toward the ceiling.

Paige froze, her lips parting slightly as she stared at the extinguished candle. Her head tilted, and her hazel eyes narrowed in suspicion. For a moment, she just stood there, caught in a curious daze, her mind racing to rationalize the odd occurrence.

Brushing it off with a slight shake of her head, she straightened and rose fully from her seat, her hand brushing against the smooth surface of her desk for balance. But just as she turned toward the printer, something even stranger happened.

Bright, shimmering white lights appeared behind her, swirling in the air like tiny stars converging on a single point. Before she could turn around, the lights flickered and condensed, leaving behind a folded newspaper article that hung momentarily in mid-air before fluttering gently to the ground.

Paige's attention snapped to the movement, her brow furrowing in mild confusion as she bent down to pick up the mysterious article. Unfolding the paper, her eyes scanned the text with growing curiosity until something on the back caught her attention.

A bold advertisement for P3, the local club, stared back at her. Her hazel eyes widened as she read the details, excitement blooming across her face. The band scheduled to play that night was one of her favorites. A smile tugged at her lips, and for a brief moment, the strange candle incident was forgotten as her thoughts shifted to the promise of an evening filled with music and fun.

"Paige, you find that study yet?" her boss's sharp voice broke through her reverie, pulling her back to the reality of her office surroundings.

Paige startled slightly, straightening her posture and forcing a quick, apologetic smile as she turned to face him. "Yeah. Yeah, I did, sorry," she stammered, her voice tinged with nervousness. She instinctively hid the newspaper clipping behind her back, her fingers curling around the edges as if protecting a secret. "It's, uh, in the printer. I'll go get it for you," she added hastily.

Her boss scowled, clearly unimpressed, and Paige internally cringed at the sight. She turned on her heel and made her way toward the printer, her steps quick but graceful. As she walked, her mind was already racing ahead, plotting how she'd make sure she didn't miss her night at P3. She glanced over her shoulder briefly, ensuring her boss wasn't watching, then allowed herself a small, secret smile.

The thought of the evening's escape—a chance to leave behind the monotony of office life and dive into the pulse of live music and energy at P3—felt like a beacon of light. She made a mental note to grab her favorite outfit as soon as she got home, determined not to let anything get in the way of her plans.

Memorial Cemetery

A large congregation of mourners filled the modest yet elegant mausoleum, their muted whispers and quiet sobs creating a somber symphony. The room was adorned with a myriad of flowers, their vibrant colors and heady fragrances in stark contrast to the grief saturating the air. At the front, a large framed picture of Dr. Griffiths rested on an easel, his warm, kind smile forever frozen in time. Next to it stood a polished, sharp-looking casket made of rich brown wood, its surface gleaming under the soft glow of the chandeliers above.

Prue stood near the back of the room, away from the heart of the crowd, as though keeping a self-imposed distance would lessen the weight of her guilt. She was dressed simply yet elegantly in a knee-length black dress and modest heels, her dark hair pulled into a loose side ponytail that softened her features. In her hand, she clutched a small black clutch bag, her fingers gripping it tightly as though it were the only thing keeping her grounded.

Her hazel eyes lingered on Dr. Griffiths' picture, but her focus was fractured. The guilt and regret she had buried deep within her since that fateful day clawed their way to the surface, constricting her chest and making her breaths shallow and labored. The raw, anguished cries of his family and friends pierced through her like a blade, each sob and wail a visceral reminder of her failure.

She swallowed hard, her throat tight as the lump of guilt grew larger. She couldn't bear to look at them, the people who loved him, who had lost him. It was all her fault. She had failed to save him. Her powers, her instincts—none of it had been enough. That failure had brought unimaginable pain to these people, and her presence here felt like a cruel intrusion.

Prue tightened her grip on the clutch, her knuckles turning white. She felt like an imposter among these grieving souls, her guilt transforming her into something unworthy of their sorrow. The urge to flee, to escape the suffocating grief around her, was almost unbearable. But she forced herself to stay rooted to the spot, her heels firmly planted on the cold marble floor. She needed to feel this pain, to face it head-on. If she didn't, she feared she'd repeat her mistakes.

When the ceremony ended, the mourners began to gather in small, sorrowful groups, exchanging quiet condolences. Prue took that as her cue to leave. She slipped out the door before anyone could notice her, her heart pounding as she moved toward her car. To stay and offer her sympathies felt like an insult to the family, as though her words could ever be enough to make up for their loss. She couldn't allow herself to add to their burden.

"Hey," came a familiar voice from her left, soft but tinged with concern.

Prue turned sharply, startled to find Buffy walking up to her, the blonde's expression a mix of determination and tenderness. "Buffy," Prue murmured, her voice heavy with exhaustion and emotion as the two began walking toward her car. "How did you know I was here?"

"I had Leo sense your location," Buffy replied simply, her tone matter-of-fact yet gentle. "And don't worry—I asked him not to tell Piper or Phoebe where you were until I had a chance to talk to you." Her sharp eyes scanned Prue's face, taking in the dark circles under her eyes and the tension in her posture. "What are you doing here?"

Prue shifted uncomfortably under Buffy's gaze, her fingers tightening around her clutch as though it could shield her from the question she didn't want to answer. "I don't want to talk about it," she murmured, her voice clipped and trembling, as she looked away.

Buffy's brow furrowed, a flicker of frustration crossing her face. "Prue, come on," she pressed, her tone still gentle but firm. She stepped closer, her hands sliding into her jacket pockets as if to keep herself from reaching out to her. "You can't just show up at a funeral and then bolt like this. I need to know what's going on with you."

"There's nothing to talk about," Prue replied sharply, the words snapping out like a whip. She moved to open her car door, but Buffy reached out, her hand closing over Prue's wrist—not hard, but enough to stop her.

"Don't do this," Buffy said, her voice lowering, the tenderness giving way to a quiet intensity.

Prue yanked her wrist free, her expression hardening as she turned to face Buffy fully. "You don't understand," she said, her voice rising slightly, the cracks in her composure starting to show. "You can't understand."

Buffy's jaw tightened, her patience clearly thinning. "Then make me understand, Prue. I'm not a mind reader, okay? But I'm not just going to stand by while you tear yourself apart and keep me in the dark."

Prue's breath hitched, her chest rising and falling in uneven rhythm. "It's not your problem!" she snapped, her voice breaking on the last word. The weight of her guilt and the raw emotions she'd been burying surged to the surface, twisting her tone into something harsher than she intended. "This is my mess, Buffy. Mine. And I don't need you trying to fix it."

Buffy took a step back, the hurt flashing across her face so briefly that Prue almost missed it. But when she spoke, her voice was calm, steady, and laced with quiet anger. "This isn't about fixing anything, Prue. It's about being there for you, even when you don't think you deserve it." She crossed her arms, her stance firm and unyielding. "You can push me away all you want, but don't think for a second that I'm going to just walk away from you."

The words hung between them; the tension thick in the cool air. Prue clenched her jaw, her gaze darting to the ground as her emotions threatened to spill over. "I don't need this right now," she muttered, her voice barely above a whisper.

Buffy let out a sharp breath, the frustration clear in her tone. "You're right, you probably don't. But that doesn't change the fact that I'm here, and I'm not going anywhere." She softened, her voice lowering as she added, "I love you, Prue. And whether you like it or not, I'm going to keep showing up for you, even if you keep shutting me out."

Prue's head snapped up at those words, her hazel eyes wide with a mix of surprise and anguish. For a moment, she said nothing, her lips parting as though to speak but no sound coming out. She shook her head slightly, her expression torn between pushing Buffy away and pulling her closer. Finally, with a shaky breath, she murmured, "I can't… I can't do this right now."

Halliwell Manor

Phoebe came bursting through the front door of the Manor, her movements frantic and her expression a storm of worry and fear. Her purse landed heavily on the small table by the door, the sound echoing through the quiet house, and her coat was tossed onto the rack with a sharp, almost violent motion. Her tense shoulders and darting eyes made it clear she was on the verge of panic. "PIPER?" she called sharply, her voice cracking with urgency as she stormed into the foyer.

"Prue?" Piper's hopeful voice rang out as she rushed from the kitchen, dishcloth in hand. Her face lit up momentarily, only to fall when she saw her younger sister instead of their missing eldest sibling. "Oh. Phoebe," she greeted with a sigh, disappointment etched into her features. But as soon as she caught a good look at Phoebe's expression, Piper's frown deepened.

"Guess she's not home then?" Phoebe asked knowingly, her voice softer now but her worry clear. Her hazel eyes scanned Piper's face, searching for answers she already suspected weren't there.

Piper shook her head slowly, her lips pressed tightly together. "Nope," she replied, her tone higher-pitched than usual, betraying her rising concern. "No word from her. And Buffy hasn't called to say that she found Prue," she added grimly, twisting the dishcloth in her hands as though trying to wring out her frustration.

Phoebe's frown mirrored her sister's, her mild concern now escalating into outright fear. "Now that really isn't like Prue," she murmured tightly, the edge in her voice betraying her growing anxiety. Piper nodded vigorously in agreement; her face pinched with unease.

"My point exactly!" Piper exclaimed; her tone sharp as she jabbed her forefinger at Phoebe for emphasis. Phoebe's eyes darkened with worry, and without a word, she spun on her heel and strode toward the phone, her steps brisk and determined.

"Don't bother," Piper said suddenly, her voice halting Phoebe mid-step. Phoebe turned back, her brows knitting in confusion as she waited for Piper to explain. "I just tried her cell—no answer. And she's not at work," Piper said with a helpless shrug, her frustration evident.

"What about Buffy's cell?" Phoebe asked, her voice tinged with hope.

"I don't have her number," Piper admitted with a small, annoyed huff.

Phoebe's eyes widened slightly, and she reached into her pocket. "I do. She gave it to me a while back," she said, pulling out her phone and quickly dialing Buffy's number. The line rang several times, each ring increasing Phoebe's nervous energy, before going straight to voicemail. "Went straight to voicemail. Okay! Now I'm worried," Phoebe muttered, her voice laced with dread as she hung up.

Piper gave a curt nod, her lips tightening in agreement. She moved toward her sister with a small, knowing smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. "Yeah… hey, Pheebs?" she asked gently, her tone softening.

Phoebe's shoulders sagged slightly, the tension in her frame easing just enough to show her vulnerability. Piper reached out and placed a comforting hand on her arm, guiding her silently toward the couch.

"And don't say it's about Prue, because I know it's more than that," Piper said, her tone both firm and caring. She sat beside Phoebe, her eyes searching her sister's face with quiet concern. "Where'd you go?"

Phoebe sighed heavily, the weight of her emotions pressing down on her. She leaned into Piper, resting her head on her older sister's shoulder like she used to when they were kids. "I… went to the mausoleum," she admitted quietly, her voice barely above a whisper. "Ya know… the one me and Cole use sometimes."

Piper nodded slowly, her brows furrowing as she processed Phoebe's words. "Guess he wasn't there, huh?" she asked softly, rubbing Phoebe's arm in a soothing gesture.

Phoebe shook her head, her hair brushing against Piper's shoulder. "No," she whispered, the ache in her voice palpable. Then, as though summoning strength from Piper's presence, she straightened and looked her sister in the eyes. "I'm really worried about him, Piper. He and Buffy betrayed the Source! We know that the Source already sent Shax after Buffy."

Piper's expression darkened, her jaw tightening at the mention of Shax. "Which means he likely has sent someone after Cole too," she said grimly, her voice laced with both worry and determination.

Phoebe nodded, though her movements were stiff and weighted with emotion. "The Source isn't going to let them get away with it," she said, her voice trembling as tears filled her eyes, threatening to spill over. The thought of losing Cole clawed at her heart, and an equally crushing thought gnawed at her—Prue losing Buffy. It was too much to bear. She swallowed hard, the lump in her throat thick and unyielding, but it did nothing to ease the ache in her chest.

Piper's solemn smile was soft but filled with sisterly affection as she reached out to comfort Phoebe. "Oh, honey," she whispered tenderly, pulling her sister into her arms. She hugged Phoebe tightly, her own heart aching for her. "I'm sure Cole's okay. Just like Buffy is okay," she murmured, her voice gentle and soothing.

But Phoebe couldn't hold back anymore. Her tears, heavy and brimming with fear, finally fell freely as she shook her head against Piper's shoulder. "I don't know, Piper," she sobbed, her words broken and raw. "He's been gone for days! Even Buffy hasn't heard from him, and he's her younger brother. You'd think he'd at least check in with her." Her voice hitched, trembling with the weight of unspoken fears. "What if… what if he's…" Her voice faltered, unable to finish the thought, the very words too unbearable to utter.

Piper immediately tightened her arms around Phoebe, rocking her slightly in comfort. "No, no, don't think that, sweetie," she said firmly, her tone leaving no room for doubt. "Cole is fine. He's smart and resourceful. Just you wait, you'll see," she added, smoothing Phoebe's hair as though to shield her from the fear gnawing at her soul.

Before Phoebe could reply, the sound of footsteps interrupted the moment. Leo appeared in the doorway of the living room, his expression calm and warm as he smiled at Phoebe. "Look who's back," he announced, glancing over his shoulder with a knowing look.

Phoebe's head snapped up, her teary eyes widening as her breath caught in her throat. A flicker of hope transformed her expression into one of pure joy, her heart thundering in her chest. She practically leaped off the couch, her face lighting up like a sunrise. "Cole!" she breathed, her voice filled with relief and disbelief as she ran toward him.

Cole stood there, his tall frame a beacon of reassurance, and his arms opened wide to catch her. The moment they collided, he wrapped her tightly in his embrace, holding her as though he'd never let go.

"Oh, thank god!" Phoebe whispered; her voice muffled as she buried her face against his chest. She clung to him, her hands gripping his jacket as though afraid he might disappear again. Closing her eyes, she inhaled deeply, the familiar scent of him grounding her, filling her with relief. Pulling back just enough to look up at him, she cupped his face in her trembling hands, her touch gentle but desperate. "I was so afraid something had happened to you," she admitted, her voice cracking. "I never thought I'd see you again."

For a moment, Cole's gaze softened, the tension in his body melting under her touch. But then his expression shifted, the relief on his face replaced by something darker—anguish and regret. His brow furrowed deeply as he looked down at her, guilt pooling in his eyes. "You shouldn't," he said softly, his voice laden with sadness. "You're, uh… you're not going to."

Phoebe froze, her hands dropping from his face as if she'd been burned. She took an instinctive step back, her expression crumbling with confusion and hurt. "What do you mean, Cole?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper, a tremor of fear creeping into her tone.

Cole's jaw tightened as he glanced away briefly, his hands balling into fists at his sides. When he spoke, his voice was low and strained, as though each word pained him. "I'm here to check on my sister," he began, his eyes flashing with fear and urgency. "The Source has every demonic bounty hunter looking for me and Elizabeth."

"Shax has already been here after Buffy," Piper interjected, her tone sharp and to the point. She crossed her arms and watched Cole closely, her own worry hidden beneath a veneer of determination.

Phoebe's brows shot up, her lips pressing into a tight line as she folded her arms across her chest. "So, what else is new?" she asked, her voice tinged with frustration and hurt. But her eyes betrayed her true feelings, shimmering with worry as she studied Cole's tense demeanor.

"This is different," Cole replied grimly, his shoulders taut with stress. "Saving you makes it different. It makes me and Elizabeth traitors." His voice softened slightly, though the weight of his words hung heavily in the air. "He's not gonna stop until he finds us, and I don't want that to happen when Elizabeth and I are around you and Prue," he added, his tone almost pleading as he reached out to cup Phoebe's cheek.

Phoebe leaned into his touch instinctively, her eyes fluttering closed for a brief moment as she tried to gather her thoughts. His touch was warm and familiar, grounding her in the midst of her turmoil. When she opened her eyes, her voice was steadier, though still laced with emotion. "So, we'll protect you and Buffy," she said firmly, her jaw set with determination as she met his gaze.

Cole gave his head a firm shake, his expression resolute as he dropped his hand from Phoebe's face. "You can't protect me and Elizabeth," he refuted decisively, his tone firm but tinged with the unmistakable weight of guilt.

Phoebe's eyes darkened with fiery determination, and her hands shot to her hips, the stance radiating defiance. She fixed Cole with an unwavering glare, her voice tight with anger as she demanded, "Why the hell not? We're the Charmed Ones, Cole!" Her words carried an edge of frustration and righteous fury. "You can't get more powerful than that!"

Cole met her glare with equal intensity, his frustration bubbling to the surface. "I don't want you getting hurt because of me, Phoebe!" he snapped, his voice rising as his emotions cracked through his usual calm exterior. His tone softened slightly, but the intensity in his gaze only deepened. "Just as I am sure Elizabeth doesn't want Prue getting hurt because of her." His voice dropped further, the vulnerability in his words unmistakable. "Elizabeth and I would never forgive ourselves if something happened to you and Prue," he admitted, the weight of his emotions settling heavily in the room. His eyes flicked between Phoebe and Piper, the guilt and love he felt for the sisters evident in his expression. "Any of you."

Piper crossed her arms, her head cocking slightly as she met Cole's conflicted gaze. A knowing smile tugged at her lips, her tone steady and reassuring as she spoke. "Danger comes with the territory, Cole," she reminded him, her eyebrows raised with a mixture of confidence and humor. "We can handle it, and we can handle some measly bounty hunters too." Her words carried a tone of finality, the kind of quiet strength that left no room for doubt.

Cole couldn't help but chuckle softly, the sound escaping him despite the tension in his chest. Piper's confidence was contagious, and for a moment, it eased the storm of worry in his mind.

"Stay," Piper requested gently, her voice softer this time as she glanced meaningfully at Phoebe. Her gaze was both an invitation and a plea, underscored by the quiet solidarity of the Charmed Ones.

Cole's resolve wavered visibly, the conflict in his eyes palpable as he looked between Phoebe and Piper. He wanted nothing more than to protect them, to keep them far from the chaos and danger that followed him and Buffy like shadows. But the thought of being apart from Phoebe—it was unbearable. His eyes flicked to Leo, who offered him a slight nod, his expression calm and steady.

With a heavy sigh, Cole exhaled the weight of his resistance, his shoulders slumping in reluctant defeat. "Alright… I'll stay," he relented, his tone quieter now, but no less sincere.

Phoebe's face lit up with unbridled relief and joy, her grin breaking through the storm clouds of her earlier worry. "Yay!" she cheered softly, practically bouncing as she wrapped her arms around Cole's waist. She rested her head comfortably against his chest, her body relaxing completely for the first time in what felt like days.

Cole dipped his head, pressing a tender kiss to the top of Phoebe's head. The gesture was small but full of unspoken promises, his arms tightening around her as if to shield her from the dangers lurking beyond the Manor walls.

Piper smiled warmly at the scene before her, her protective big-sister instincts momentarily soothed by the sight of Phoebe's happiness. She leaned into Leo as his arm slipped around her waist, the two of them sharing a quiet moment of understanding.

Cole's expression sobered slightly as he looked up at Piper and Leo, a flicker of concern creeping back into his features. "Where is Elizabeth?" he asked, his voice tinged with both curiosity and apprehension.

Before either Piper or Leo could answer, a loud, violent slamming of the front door startled everyone in the room. The sound reverberated through the Manor, cutting through the moment like a knife.

Prue stormed inside, her movements sharp and agitated. She slammed the door shut behind her and Buffy, the force of it making the walls tremble slightly. Wincing at the noise, she muttered under her breath, the pounding in her head from their earlier argument only worsening. Her face was tight with frustration as she hastily shrugged off her cardigan and tossed it onto the nearest chair. She threw her purse down onto the table with a heavy sigh, the weight of her emotions evident in every tense movement.

"Prue," Buffy said gently, trailing after her girlfriend with a tone that was both soothing and slightly cautious.

"Not now, Buffy," Prue replied curtly, her voice clipped as she brushed past Buffy, her focus elsewhere. She barely registered her sisters' watchful eyes as she marched further into the house, her frustration and exhaustion clouding her usual composure.

"What the hell are you wearing?" Phoebe wondered with a chuckle, her amusement evident as her gaze swept over Prue and Buffy, who had just walked into view. Her playful tone faltered slightly, replaced by a frown as she took in Prue's attire more closely. "You look like you've just been to a funeral," she added, her brows furrowing with concern as she gave her sister a once-over.

"That's where I found her," Buffy replied flatly, her voice clipped with lingering frustration. She crossed her arms and fixed Phoebe with a pointed look before glancing back at Prue. "And then she and I got into an argument over why she was at Dr. Griffiths' funeral."

Prue didn't respond, her jaw tight and her expression unreadable as she strode past them toward the kitchen. Her footsteps were brisk, her body language radiating a simmering combination of exhaustion and agitation. She seemed determined to avoid further conversation, but just as she reached the doorway, a demon shimmered into existence directly in her path.

She froze, her eyes narrowing into a piercing glare as she sized up the unwelcome intruder. Her patience, already worn thin, snapped like a taut string. "I am so not in the mood for this," she seethed, her voice dripping with venom. With a sharp motion of her arm, she flung the demon telekinetically across the room. He soared through the air, crashing down hard onto the dining table with a pained grunt that reverberated through the Manor.

Before the demon could recover, Piper stepped forward, her expression cool and resolute. She flicked her wrists sharply, sending an explosive blast in his direction that vanquished him instantly.

Phoebe, standing just behind Piper, glanced over at Cole and Buffy, her brow lifting as a smirk played on her lips. "Friend of yours?" she quipped lightly, her tone tinged with dry amusement as she crossed her arms.

Cole and Buffy exchanged a brief, tense look before nodding in unison, their bodies visibly taut with alertness. "Bounty hunter," they said in unison, their voices grim with certainty.

Prue's eyes flicked between the pair, her stance shifting as she placed her hands on her hips. Her tone darkened as she questioned them, her voice low and deliberate. "He was after the two of you?"

"Baby, yes, he was after us," Buffy snapped, the exasperation in her voice cutting through the tension like a blade. Her patience with Prue's attitude was clearly wearing thin. "Just as Shax came after me a couple days ago. In the Source's eyes, Cole and I are traitors. He wants us dead."

Prue said nothing at first, her expression unreadable as she stared between Buffy and Cole. Her lips pursed, and she tilted her head slightly to the right, scrutinizing Cole with narrowed eyes. After a moment, her expression softened just enough to convey sincerity as she spoke. "Nice to see you're still in one piece," she remarked, her tone more neutral, if still guarded.

Phoebe and Buffy exchanged a brief look, both aware of the effort Prue was making to be civil. They knew she was trying, and they also knew Cole was mirroring that effort—for Phoebe and Buffy's sake.

Cole caught the implication in her words, and a faint smirk tugged at the corner of his lips. "Nice to know you care," he quipped lightly, his tone carrying just a hint of humor.

Prue smiled faintly in return, the barest hint of a laugh escaping her as she shrugged her shoulders nonchalantly. "Well..." she trailed off, leaving the rest of the thought unspoken but implied.

The moment of levity was short-lived. Suddenly, a second bounty hunter shimmered in behind Prue, his presence announced by the crackle of energy forming in his hand. Before anyone could react, he hurled an energy ball straight at her back.

"AH!" Prue cried out in shock and pain as the attack collided with her. The force sent her flying forward through the air, her body slamming into Buffy with bone-jarring impact. Both women hit the floor hard, Prue landing squarely on top of her girlfriend.

Buffy let out a grunt of pain as Prue's weight bore down on her, followed by another pained sound as her head smacked against the floor. The room erupted into chaos.

"Oh my god!" Phoebe squeaked, her voice high-pitched and panicked as she rushed forward, arms outstretched toward her fallen sister.

"Prue!" Piper shrieked, her tone laced with alarm as she ran to her big sister's side. Her face was pale with worry, and she barely registered anything else in the room as she dropped to her knees.

Cole, his body tense with protective fury, didn't hesitate. An energy ball formed in his hand, crackling with raw power as he hurled it at the bounty hunter. The blast struck true, vanquishing the demon in a blinding flash of light before he could launch another attack.

Meanwhile, Buffy remained still beneath Prue, her breaths coming in shallow pants as she resisted the urge to move. Her instincts told her to stay put, fearing she might inadvertently worsen any injuries Prue might have sustained.

Leo appeared at Piper's side, his hands already glowing with golden light as he began to heal Prue. The soothing warmth of his magic spread over her, repairing the damage caused by the energy ball. Buffy remained quiet, her focus entirely on her girlfriend as she anxiously awaited any sign of improvement.

After several tense seconds, the golden glow emanating from Leo's hands finally dimmed and faded. Prue stirred on the floor, her features contorting as she slowly regained consciousness.

"Owwww," she groaned, her voice weak and strained as her eyelids fluttered open. Her first instinct was to shift her body, but the effort was met with immediate regret. "Oh, that hurt," she winced, her expression tight with pain.

Buffy's worried gaze locked onto hers instantly. "Are you okay?" she asked softly, her voice carrying the weight of her concern as she leaned closer to her girlfriend.

Prue's lips curved into a faint, dry smile despite the discomfort etched into her face. "I think, 'oh, that hurt' sums up that I am not, okay," she quipped, her tone light but still laced with a hint of sarcasm. She carefully rolled off Buffy, her movements slow and deliberate. As her body met the floor, another soft whimper escaped her lips. "Ow," she murmured quietly.

Before she could try to sit up on her own, Piper appeared by her side, her face filled with concern and her touch gentle as she reached down to help. "Here, I've got you," Piper murmured, her voice soothing as she slipped an arm under Prue's shoulders to pull her upright. Prue winced but allowed her sister's support, her weight leaning into her briefly.

Once she was sitting upright, Prue managed a small, grateful smile and nodded toward Leo. "Thanks," she said softly, her voice still tinged with exhaustion but filled with sincerity.

Phoebe, unable to contain her relief, darted forward and threw her arms tightly around Prue. She buried her face into her eldest sister's neck, her hug fierce and full of unspoken emotion.

Prue winced slightly at the contact but let out a quiet laugh, wrapping her arms around Phoebe in return. "I'm okay," she murmured, her smile growing as she held her little sister close. "Really," she added, her voice as reassuring as she could make it.

Phoebe pulled back slightly, her lips pressing into a skeptical pout. "Are you sure?" she asked, her voice slipping into a familiar, childlike tone that always surfaced when she was worried. "Like, really, really sure?"

Buffy, who had been watching Prue intently, chimed in. "That's what I want to know," she said, her brows furrowed as she studied her girlfriend, her gaze flickering over her for any signs of lingering injury.

Prue chuckled softly, the sound light but genuine. "Yes," she confirmed with a playful roll of her eyes. "Really, really sure." To emphasize her point, she leaned down and pressed a quick kiss to the top of Phoebe's head.

Phoebe held onto Prue for a moment longer, reluctant to let go. Finally, with a deep breath, she released her hold. "Alright then," she said, her voice lighter but still carrying a trace of lingering worry.

Piper, who had been quietly observing the tender moment, smiled warmly at her two sisters. But her expression quickly shifted, her features becoming more serious as she turned her attention back to Prue. "So, you went to his funeral," she stated, her tone gentle but deliberate. Her eyes searched Prue's, seeking confirmation of Buffy's earlier words. There was no judgment in her voice, only understanding. Piper knew exactly who she was referring to.

Prue's shoulders slumped slightly, and she closed her eyes with a small, weary sigh. The tension in her frame was palpable, and Phoebe's face fell noticeably at the sight, her own expression mirroring the sadness she saw in her eldest sister. "Yes, I did," Prue finally admitted, her voice trembling slightly despite her best efforts to remain composed. The vulnerability in her tone was something she clearly detested, but it was undeniable.

Phoebe let out a quiet, empathetic sigh and moved closer again, wrapping her arms gently around Prue's waist. She rested her head on her sister's shoulder and whispered softly, "That was brave of you. I could never have faced all those grieving relatives."

"Me neither," Piper added, her voice just as soft, her words carrying the weight of shared sorrow.

Prue let out a shaky breath, her arm instinctively wrapping around Phoebe while her other hand reached for Piper's. She grasped it tightly, drawing strength from the connection. "I don't feel very brave," she whispered back, her voice breaking slightly as she stared down at the floor.

"Well, you are," Buffy interjected firmly, her tone leaving no room for argument. Her expression softened as she locked eyes with Prue. "But you should've told your sisters and me. We were worried."

Prue bit her bottom lip, guilt flashing across her face as she averted her eyes. "I'm sorry," she said quietly, the apology heavy with sincerity.

For a moment, silence enveloped the group, the only sound the faint ticking of the clock in the background. It was Phoebe who finally broke the tension, shaking her head and releasing a heavy sigh. "Man," she muttered, her tone shifting into something lighter, "do we need a night out or what." She chuckled wryly, her attempt to lift the mood bringing a faint smile to her lips.

Her sisters and Buffy couldn't help but join in, their laughter soft but genuine as they allowed themselves a brief reprieve from the weight of the evening.

P3

"Here you go, ladies," Leo said warmly, his smile bright as he carefully placed their drinks down on the table, passing them around one by one. The soft clink of glasses touching the wooden table was almost drowned out by the hum of music and chatter around them.

"Thanks, Leo!" Phoebe exclaimed, her face lighting up as she accepted her drink. She leaned back against Cole, her body naturally curling into his side. Her cheek rested lightly against his shoulder as she sipped her cocktail, a content smile tugging at her lips. Cole's arm came around her, holding her close, the subtle affection drawing a faint blush to Phoebe's cheeks.

"Thanks, Leo," Buffy said politely, her tone soft but genuine as she took her diet soda. Her free hand instinctively reached for Prue, fingers brushing against hers before slipping into a comfortable hold. She nestled closer to her girlfriend, their shoulders pressed together as Prue absentmindedly toyed with a strand of Buffy's hair.

"Thank you, honey," Piper added with a tender smile, leaning in to press a quick, affectionate kiss to Leo's lips.

Leo smiled back at her, the warmth in his eyes unmistakable as he settled into his seat next to Piper. He draped an arm casually around her shoulders, pulling her snugly against him. Piper let out a quiet, contented sigh as she relaxed into his embrace, her hand resting lightly on his knee.

Prue observed the scene with a faint smile, her gaze flitting between the couples in front of her. Her sharp blue eyes lingered on the subtle yet intimate gestures they exchanged—the way Phoebe's fingers absentmindedly traced circles on Cole's hand, the soft laughter Piper and Leo shared, and the way Buffy kept sneaking glances at her, concern flickering behind her green eyes. Prue's smile faltered slightly as her thoughts began to drift.

"What's wrong?" Buffy's voice was low and intimate, her breath brushing against Prue's ear as she leaned in closer. Her eyes searched Prue's face, trying to read the thoughts hidden behind her composed exterior.

"Just thinking," Prue replied, her voice quiet but steady. She glanced briefly at Buffy, then away, as if weighing her next words carefully. "About something I've not told you about yet." Before Buffy could press her for more, Prue tipped her glass back and drained the rest of her drink in one smooth motion. The slight shiver that ran through her was not just from the buzz of alcohol—it was the weight of whatever thoughts she was keeping to herself.

Prue stood abruptly, holding her empty glass aloft with a faint shake. "Anyone else?" she asked casually, her tone light, though her eyes betrayed a subtle edge.

Phoebe barely registered the question, her focus elsewhere as she rested comfortably against Cole. Piper, however, perked up, tilting her head toward her older sister. "You're done already?" she asked incredulously, her brows knitting together in concern. "Leo just got you that," she added, her eyes scanning Prue as if trying to discern what was really going on.

Phoebe's attention snapped to Prue at the mention of her drink. "Whoa, Prue! Downing a martini lemonade that quickly will go to your head," she teased with a chuckle. But beneath her playful tone was a note of unease, her sharp intuition catching onto something her sister wasn't saying.

Prue offered a tight smile, her lips barely curving upward. "That," she said softly, her tone carrying a hint of bitterness, "is the plan." She turned away, but not before catching the twin frowns on her sisters' faces.

"Prue…" Piper began, her voice laced with concern as she straightened in her seat. But Prue silenced her with a dismissive wave of her hand.

"I'm kidding," Prue assured quickly, though the slight shrug of her shoulders did little to sell her words. She glanced at Buffy, then back at her sisters. "But Buffy and I are… gonna go elsewhere, okay?" Her tone was firm but not unkind as she gestured for Buffy to join her. She started to move, but Phoebe's hand darted out, wrapping around her wrist to stop her.

"Hey! Where you going?" Phoebe asked, her curiosity evident in the wide, questioning eyes she fixed on her older sister. Her tone was tinged with confusion, and her grip on Prue's wrist was gentle but resolute.

Prue hesitated for a moment, her features softening as she met Phoebe's gaze. "Just need to talk in private," she said simply, a hint of something unspoken lingering in her voice. She shot a subtle glance at Leo, who nodded in understanding, before tugging Buffy gently to her feet.

Without another word, Prue led Buffy through the crowd, weaving toward the bar. Buffy followed without question, though her grip on Prue's hand tightened slightly, her unease evident in the way her eyes flicked back toward the table.

Back at the table, Phoebe and Piper exchanged a look, unspoken questions passing between them. Piper raised a brow as if to ask if Phoebe had any insight into Prue's behavior, but Phoebe could only shrug in response.

"Well," Phoebe said finally, her lips curving into a wry smile. "Might as well hit the dance floor while they're off having their mysterious talk." She slid out of her seat, grabbing Cole's hand and pulling him along with her.

Piper chuckled softly and leaned into Leo, her head resting on his shoulder. "Guess it's just us for now," she murmured before standing and tugging Leo toward the dance floor as well, leaving the table behind.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

"What is it, Prue?" Buffy asked softly, her green eyes fixed on her girlfriend's face as she leaned back casually against the bar. The soft lighting of the club cast a faint glow on Buffy's golden hair, but her expression was serious, her attention fully on Prue.

Prue hesitated, her gaze dropping to the drink in her hand. She swirled the liquid absentmindedly, the ice clinking against the glass as if giving her a moment to collect her thoughts. Finally, she looked up, her blue eyes shimmering with an emotion Buffy couldn't quite place. "Before Leo healed me," Prue began, her voice quieter now, almost hesitant, "when I was on the brink of crossing over..." She paused, taking a steadying breath as she recalled the memory of her near-death experience from the week before. "In that in-between area, I had a visitor."

Buffy tilted her head slightly, her brows knitting together in curiosity. "A visitor?" she asked softly.

Prue nodded, a ghost of a smile appearing on her lips before it faded. "My old boyfriend, Andy, visited me."

Buffy blinked, momentarily taken aback. "The one who died last year?" she clarified, her voice laced with surprise.

Prue nodded again, her gaze distant now, as though she could still see him standing before her. "Yes," she confirmed, her voice thick with emotion. "He... he gave me his blessing for you and me." A faint smile played at the corners of her mouth, though it was tinged with bittersweetness. "He told me that he was happy I'd found love again, that he could see how much you mean to me."

Buffy's features softened as she reached out, gently taking Prue's free hand in hers. "That's... wow, Prue. That's incredible."

Prue swallowed hard, her fingers tightening around Buffy's instinctively. "That's not all," she continued, her voice trembling slightly. "He told me... he told me that you and I will have a daughter together."

Buffy blinked, her eyes widening in surprise. "A daughter?" she echoed, the words hanging in the air between them. "How is that even possible?" Her voice was filled with disbelief, though it was clear she wasn't dismissing the idea outright.

Prue let out a shaky sigh, shaking her head as though trying to make sense of it herself. "I don't understand how, Buffy," she admitted, her voice cracking under the weight of her emotions. "When I told Leo about this, he just said, 'With magic, anything is possible.'" She let out a humorless laugh, her shoulders sagging slightly. "But I still don't know how. I mean... I—I never even thought of myself as a mother before then."

Buffy stared at her, the shock giving way to something softer, something more profound. She stepped closer, her free hand brushing against Prue's cheek, grounding her. "Hey," Buffy said gently, her voice steady, "we don't have to have all the answers right now. Magic or not, we'll figure it out. Together."

Prue searched Buffy's eyes, the warmth and sincerity in them easing some of the tension in her chest. "It's just... it's a lot to process," she murmured. "Andy said it like it was a certainty, like it's already written. But I don't even know where to start."

Buffy offered a small, reassuring smile, her thumb stroking over Prue's knuckles. "Then we start here," she said firmly. "One step at a time. You're not alone in this, Prue. You've got me—and your sisters. We'll figure out the how when the time comes."

Prue let out a breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding, a flicker of relief passing over her features. "Thank you," she whispered, her voice barely audible over the distant music.

Buffy smiled, leaning in to press a gentle kiss to Prue's forehead. "Always," she promised, her voice steady and sure.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

"You alright?"

Paige looked up, startled out of her thoughts by the sound of Shane's voice cutting through the buzz of the club. She blinked rapidly, her mind snapping back to the present as she registered the concern in his tone. "Me?" she asked, her voice slightly distracted as they slid into their seats away from the crowded dance floor. "Yeah… why?"

Shane settled into his chair, leaning back slightly as he studied her face. His easygoing expression softened, replaced by quiet worry. "Well… you just seem a little quieter than usual, that's all," he said gently, his tone probing but careful, as though he didn't want to push too hard.

Paige let out a small breath and shrugged her shoulders, a touch of defensiveness creeping into her body language as she shifted in her seat. "What makes you think I'm not like this all the time?" she asked evasively, her voice light, though there was a hint of tension behind her words.

Shane smirked slightly, his confidence flickering back as he rested his elbows on the table. "Well, we've been dating for a month now, so… I think I'd know," he replied, his tone playful yet self-assured.

Paige tilted her head to the right, her eyebrows arching in a silent challenge. The corners of her lips twitched upward, though her gaze remained skeptical.

Before the conversation could continue, a waitress passed by their table. Shane raised a hand to catch her attention, his movements fluid and practiced. "Hey! Could we get a couple longnecks?" he asked, flashing a charming grin.

The waitress returned his smile with a polite nod, pulling out two napkins and placing them neatly in front of them. "Sure!" she replied cheerfully.

Before she could step away, Paige leaned forward, her hand shooting up in a polite but urgent gesture. "Make mine a mineral water, please?" she interjected quickly, her voice firm but kind. "Thanks."

As the waitress walked away, Paige turned to Shane, her expression caught somewhere between amusement and self-consciousness. "So much for how well you know me, cowboy," she teased lightly, her tone carrying a nervous edge as she let out a small, awkward laugh. She shifted in her seat, her hands fidgeting with the napkin in front of her. "I don't drink," she admitted, her voice quieter now. "I used to have... kind of a problem with certain liquids," she added, forcing out another laugh that didn't quite meet her eyes. "Lots of problems, actually, but… that's all behind me now."

Shane's brow furrowed slightly, his easy demeanor giving way to genuine concern. He leaned in slightly, his voice soft. "You wanna go someplace else?" he offered, his tone free of judgment.

Paige's hands shot up in a quick, dismissive gesture as she shook her head. "No. No, no, no, no! I like it here," she assured him, her tone more emphatic than she intended. A bright smile lit up her face, though it seemed a little forced at the edges. "Gosh, I should like it here. I've been coming to P3 for the last year or so on and off. I mean, ever since the—" Her words cut off abruptly, and she seemed to shrink slightly into herself. Her hands dropped back to her lap, twisting together nervously.

Shane's curiosity was piqued, his gaze steady as he leaned forward slightly. "Ever since what?" he asked, his voice gentle but laced with intrigue.

Paige avoided his gaze, her fingers now toying with the edge of the napkin as she forced out a laugh. "Oh, no, never mind. It's boring," she dismissed quickly, offering a bright but clearly fake smile.

Shane didn't look away, his silence pressing her to continue.

With a dramatic sigh, Paige relented, though a mischievous glint sparked in her eyes as she pointed a finger at him. "Alright," she said, her tone teasing but serious, "but if I tell you all about Paige and you use it against me? I will get out my voodoo doll and make you sorry you're a man!"

Shane chuckled, raising his hands in mock surrender. "Fair enough. Hit me."

Paige leaned back slightly, exhaling deeply as though steeling herself. "So… my sad story is that I'm adopted," she began with a small shrug. Her voice was light, but there was a faint tremor underneath, a vulnerability she couldn't quite hide. "Only it's not so sad because I loved my parents. God rest them." Her lips quirked upward in a soft smile, but her eyes glimmered with something deeper—grief, maybe, or nostalgia. "So after they died, I went searching for my birth mother, hoping to get some answers."

She paused for a moment, glancing at Shane to gauge his reaction. His expression remained attentive, encouraging her to continue.

"I went to the police station, found, uh… the church where I was dumped at," she continued, her voice growing quieter as she spoke. "I checked around, figured she must have lived near there, you know?" She tilted her head slightly, her gaze flicking up to meet his briefly before darting back down to her hands.

Shane nodded, his understanding evident in the small, empathetic smile he gave her.

Paige's fingers began to trace idle patterns on the napkin in front of her, the motion almost hypnotic as she spoke. "I even thought I might have been…" She let out a breathless laugh, shaking her head at the absurdity of the thought. "...related to the Halliwell sisters for a minute, but their mom died a long time ago, so…" She shrugged dismissively, though there was a flicker of something wistful in her eyes. "I gave up on that."

Shane tilted his head slightly, his curiosity undeterred. "So… did you ever try to meet the sisters? Ask them about it?" he asked, his voice gentle.

Paige's eyes widened, and she barked out a laugh, shaking her head vehemently. "Yeah, right!" she exclaimed, shooting him a look that was equal parts incredulous and amused. "Hi, I think your mom abandoned me at birth. What's for dinner?" she quipped sarcastically, rolling her eyes as she broke into a genuine laugh.

"Here you are."

The waitress returned, interrupting the thread of conversation as she carefully deposited their drinks onto the table. Her movements were quick, practiced, as though she had mastered the art of vanishing before being caught in anyone's personal moments. With a polite but fleeting smile, she scurried off, leaving Paige and Shane alone again.

"That still doesn't explain why you keep coming here," Shane pressed after a brief pause, gesturing around the room with his drink. His tone was light but probing, curiosity flickering in his eyes as he leaned slightly closer to her.

Paige shifted in her seat, her fingers toying with the straw in her glass. The clink of ice against the glass seemed louder in the pause she let linger. "Well…" she began, her voice hesitant, "one of the sisters owns it, so…" She trailed off, her words uncertain even to herself. Her brow furrowed slightly as she tried to articulate the unexplainable pull she felt. "I don't know. I guess I kind of feel… connected somehow?" she admitted, her tone laced with both wonder and embarrassment.

A small, nervous laugh escaped her lips as she glanced up at Shane, only to quickly look away again. "Okay, I sound certifiably insane now. Good job, Paige! Way to go!" she added, her voice dripping with self-deprecation as she shook her head at herself.

Before she could spiral further into awkwardness, Shane leaned forward and silenced her self-criticism with a soft, unanticipated kiss. His lips met hers gently but meaningfully, grounding her in the moment. The kiss was brief yet carried enough weight to catch her off guard, leaving her momentarily stunned when he pulled back.

Paige blinked at him, her expression caught between surprise and vulnerability. She hesitated for a moment, her walls cracking as she finally whispered, "Don't hurt me, okay?" Her voice was quiet, raw with emotion, and her eyes searched his face with a guarded desperation. "I can't take anymore right now," she added softly, the unspoken wounds of her past hanging heavily in the air between them.

Shane's response was wordless but resolute. He leaned in again, his lips pressing against hers with the same tenderness, the gesture more than a reassurance—it was a promise.

Breathing out a shaky sigh of relief, Paige pulled back, her gaze steadying as a slow, mischievous smirk spread across her lips. "C'mon," she said, her voice regaining its playful edge. "I've got something to show you."

With that, she stood, tugging him up from his seat with a surprising burst of energy. She grabbed her coat and slung it over her arm, leaving their table—and the napkin she had been absentmindedly doodling on. Left behind on its surface was a faint yet unmistakable sketch of the triquetra symbol, its interwoven arcs drawn with almost subconscious precision.

As she turned to weave through the crowd, Paige's momentum collided with another young woman, eliciting a startled cry.

"Ah!" the woman exclaimed as their shoulders brushed.

"Sorry!" Paige called over her shoulder without slowing down, her voice carrying above the hum of the club. Her fingers tightened briefly around Shane's hand as she maneuvered them toward the roof access door.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Piper exhaled slowly, her shoulders sagging as she collapsed onto a stool at the bar. "I'm exhausted!" she declared, her voice laced with a mixture of fatigue and exasperation. She leaned forward, resting her elbows on the counter as though even holding herself upright had become a chore.

Phoebe chuckled softly, taking the seat next to her sister with far less dramatics. "Well, sis, that's because we've been dancing—in heels, no less—in a crowded bar for the last thirty minutes straight," she reminded with a knowing smile, brushing a strand of hair from her slightly flushed face. She gestured around them at the bustling club. "This place is packed!"

Piper lifted her head just enough to glance around, her lips curving into a cocky grin as she took in the full crowd. "Yeah… it is, right?" she agreed, a note of pride slipping into her voice. She released a relieved sigh, letting herself bask in the success of her business. "Thank god!"

Before the sisters could continue their exchange, Leo appeared, weaving through the mass of people as he approached the bar. "Hey," he called, his eyes scanning the area as Cole, standing just behind him, gestured to a bartender to order a round of mineral waters.

Piper and Phoebe turned their attention to Leo, both sensing a question hanging in the air.

"Where's Prue?" he asked, his brow furrowing slightly as he looked around again, his gaze sweeping over the crowd with growing concern.

Phoebe and Piper exchanged glances before beginning their own search, their heads turning in unison as they scanned the bar for any sign of their eldest sister and Buffy.

"Oh!" Phoebe exclaimed suddenly; her voice triumphant as her eyes landed on a familiar figure. She pointed toward the office door with a smirk playing on her lips. "There she is!"

Piper followed Phoebe's gaze, her own expression shifting into one of confusion as she spotted Prue stepping out of the office. "What is she doing coming out of the office?" she asked, her tone expectant as she looked to Phoebe for an answer.

Phoebe didn't miss a beat. Her smirk widened as she leaned back slightly, letting the moment build. "I think the better question would be: why is she coming out of the office with Buffy?" she suggested, her eyebrows wiggling suggestively as the teasing glint in her eyes grew more mischievous.

Piper stared at her younger sister, her face blank as the implication sank in. A long second passed before realization dawned, her eyes widening in shock. "No!?" she gasped loudly, her hands flying to her chest as though to shield herself from the mental image. She shook her head in vehement disbelief, her expression teetering on mild disgust.

Phoebe grinned wickedly, clearly enjoying herself. "Yes! Our big sister just got laid!" she announced with a gleeful smirk, the pride in her voice unmistakable. With a bounce to her step, she shot to her feet and waved her arms exuberantly. "HEY, PRUE!" she yelled over the roar of the crowd, her voice cutting through the music as she flagged her eldest sister down.

Prue and Buffy, hand-in-hand, made their way toward the group at the bar. Prue's face lit up in a smile as she spotted Phoebe's enthusiastic greeting, though she faltered slightly at the intensity of her sister's gaze.

"Hey, guys!" Prue greeted warmly, her eyes flickering across the group as she and Buffy joined them at the bar. "Having fun?" she asked, her smile fading into a slight frown as she took note of Piper's disapproving look and the way both Leo and Cole avoided making eye contact.

Phoebe nodded eagerly; her enthusiasm unshaken. "Yup, but I'm willing to bet not nearly as much as you!" she shot back, her tone dripping with playful innuendo. Her bright brown eyes sparkled with mischief as she locked them onto Prue, the knowing smirk on her lips leaving no room for doubt about what she meant.

Prue and Buffy exchanged a glance, their faces mirroring each other's expressions as they pieced together Phoebe's insinuation. The flush of embarrassment rose quickly, spreading across Prue's cheeks like wildfire.

"Oh my god," Prue groaned, her voice muffled as she covered her mouth with her hands, her wide eyes darting back to Phoebe, who was nodding smugly in confirmation.

"Oh my god!" she repeated, her tone rising in pitch as she turned to face Piper with an apologetic grimace. "So sorry!"

Piper, however, remained unmoved. She crossed her arms, glaring pointedly at Prue and Buffy as though she were the disappointed parent of two unruly children.

"Ah!" Phoebe cried out suddenly, lurching forward so abruptly that her arm knocked one of the drinks off the table, sending it crashing to the ground with a sharp splash. The startled sound drew the attention of nearby patrons, though most quickly went back to their conversations.

"SORRY!" the young woman who had bumped into her shouted over her shoulder, barely sparing a glance as she disappeared into the throng of the crowd. But Phoebe didn't react. Her eyes were wide and unfocused, her hand frozen mid-air as though grasping for something unseen.

Phoebe was caught in a premonition. The vivid images stormed into her mind, filling her senses completely. She saw Shax, his imposing figure looming on the edge of a rooftop. The sky was overcast, wind whipping through the air. With him was a young girl, her shoulder-length raven hair tossing wildly in the gusts. Fear was etched into the girl's face as Shax raised an arm, conjuring an energy ball that glowed malevolently in his hand. He hurled it with terrifying precision. The girl screamed, instinctively throwing up her arms to shield herself as the crackling energy surged toward her.

The vision abruptly snapped away, leaving Phoebe gasping loudly as though she'd just surfaced from being underwater. The force of it overwhelmed her, and she toppled backward off her stool.

"Phoebe!" Cole's voice was sharp with alarm, and he moved with lightning reflexes, catching her before she hit the ground. His arms encircled her, holding her steady as she trembled slightly from the residual impact of the vision.

At the same time, Piper shot to her feet, her eyes wide with concern. She moved to stand beside Prue and Buffy, all three of them now completely focused on Phoebe. Whatever lighthearted conversation they'd been having moments before was forgotten.

"What did you see?" Prue asked, her voice calm but tinged with urgency as she stepped closer and gently took Phoebe's arm, helping guide her back onto the stool. Her steadying presence seemed to anchor Phoebe as she tried to collect herself.

Phoebe's breathing was uneven, and she ran a hand through her hair, shaking her head as if trying to clear it. "Uh… I saw Shax," she said finally, her voice tight and a little shaky. "He was—he was on the edge of some building, a rooftop. There was this girl…" She trailed off, her gaze locking on Prue as a flicker of recognition passed across her face. "She kinda reminded me of you, actually," she added with a soft frown, as if still trying to process the connection.

Piper glanced at Prue, her brow furrowing with worry, but Prue's expression didn't waver. She kept her focus entirely on Phoebe, her features taut with concentration.

"Never mind that just now," Prue said firmly, brushing off the comment with a sharp shake of her head. Her tone was measured, but there was an undercurrent of urgency as she pressed Phoebe for more. "What else did you see?"

Phoebe nodded slowly, her face paling further as the weight of the vision began to sink in. "He's going to kill her," she said, her voice trembling with dread. Panic lit up her eyes, and she stood abruptly, her movements frantic. "We need to find her now!" she exclaimed, her voice rising as urgency gripped her.

Prue reached out quickly, placing both hands on Phoebe's arms to steady her. "Alright, alright," she said, her voice low and soothing, though her eyes betrayed her own growing anxiety. "Just… calm down," she added, trying to keep Phoebe grounded enough to give them the details they needed.

Buffy, who had been watching intently, stepped closer, her tone steady but urgent. "Can you describe the rooftop, or any of the surrounding buildings?" she asked, her eyes scanning Phoebe's face for clues.

Phoebe's hands flew up to her head, her fingers digging into her hair as she tried to pull the fragmented details back together. "Uh… no, I—I, I, I can't remem—wait!" she stammered, her eyes snapping wide with sudden clarity. "There was a—a helipad on top of the building!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with newfound certainty.

"P3 has one of those," Piper chimed in, her voice slow as realization dawned on her. She took a step forward, her gaze bouncing between her sisters as the pieces clicked into place. "P3 has a helipad on the roof. She's here!" she finished, her voice sharp with urgency.

Phoebe's head whipped toward Piper, and then to Prue, her eyes wide with determination. Without another word, she grabbed both their hands and began pulling them through the crowd. "Come on!" she urged, her voice firm and insistent. The three sisters moved quickly, weaving through the throng of club-goers, with Leo, Cole, and Buffy following closely behind, their faces set with grim resolve.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

"Aren't you afraid that we're gonna get caught?" Shane asked with a playful grin, his voice low as he pushed the heavy rooftop door nearly closed behind them. The faint muffled thrum of music from P3 could still be heard beneath the sharp whistle of the cool night breeze.

Paige turned to him with a serene smile, her eyes glinting with mischief as her boots clicked softly on the concrete. "I like an element of danger!" she replied, her voice light but charged with excitement. She walked toward the center of the rooftop, her gaze tilting skyward. The night stretched above her, infinite and speckled with stars, their light twinkling like a million tiny beacons in the darkness. She spread her arms wide, letting the crisp air flow over her, tousling her dark hair.

"Oh! Look at the stars!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with childlike wonder. Her expression softened as her eyes locked onto the glittering sky. "They're so beautiful," she whispered, as though speaking to herself. She turned back to Shane, gripping the edge of her jacket with both hands as a sudden wave of emotion swelled in her chest. Her dark eyes bore into his. "They make me feel… free," she added, her voice trembling slightly, as though the word carried a depth she couldn't fully express.

Shane's grin widened, charmed by her enthusiasm, but before he could respond, Paige's demeanor shifted. Slowly, almost teasingly, she slid her jacket off her shoulders and let it fall down her arms. A coy, seductive smirk spread across her lips as she closed the space between them, tilting her head up to kiss him. Their lips met in a passionate kiss, her fingers curling into the front of his shirt as if anchoring herself to the moment.

But the tender moment shattered in an instant. A sudden, unnatural gust of wind tore through the rooftop, howling like a tempest and whipping their hair and clothes around wildly. The air grew charged with a dangerous energy, making the hairs on Paige's arms stand on end.

Shane turned his head, alarmed, as Paige's eyes widened in shock. "Shane!" she cried out in fear, grabbing his arm and spinning him around to face the source of the disturbance.

Standing on the edge of the rooftop, framed by the swirling vortex of the supernatural wind, was Shax. His imposing form seemed to blend into the night, the malevolence radiating from him palpable. His cold, predatory gaze locked onto Shane as he raised an arm, forming a glowing energy ball in his palm. Before either of them could react, Shax hurled it toward Shane with brutal precision.

The impact was immediate. Shane was flung backward, his body hurtling through the air before hitting the rooftop floor with a sickening thud. Paige screamed, frozen in horror as Shax turned his focus on her, the sinister glow of another energy ball forming in his hand.

The rooftop door burst open with a loud bang as the Halliwell sisters, Buffy, Leo, and Cole rushed onto the roof. "LOOK OUT!" Phoebe yelled desperately, her voice cutting through the chaos just as Shax released the second energy ball.

Paige barely had time to react. She screamed, throwing her arms up instinctively to shield her face. But instead of bracing for the inevitable impact, she felt her body dissolve into a swirl of blue and white lights. The energy ball passed harmlessly through the space she had just occupied as her form disappeared completely.

"What in the hell!?" Prue exclaimed, her voice sharp and laced with confusion as the group skidded to a halt. Their eyes darted to the swirling orbs of light, which reformed seconds later, depositing Paige back in the same spot she had vanished from.

"She orbed!" Phoebe blurted, her eyes wide with shock. The declaration hung in the air, absurd and undeniable all at once. Piper nodded slowly, her eyes darting to Leo for some kind of explanation, though his face was just as bewildered.

Paige stood trembling, her chest heaving with shallow, panicked breaths. Her wide eyes remained locked on Shax, who looked momentarily taken aback by her unexpected display of magic. Fear radiated off her in waves as her mind struggled to comprehend what had just happened.

"RUN!" Prue yelled suddenly, snapping Paige out of her frozen state. Paige turned to her, her huge dark eyes locking onto Prue's with an expression of raw desperation. Her pale face was drained of all color, her trembling lips silently pleading for salvation.

Prue froze for a split second, startled by the overwhelming resemblance in the girl's features—features that echoed something achingly familiar. Her spine straightened instinctively, a powerful surge of protectiveness flooding her as she registered the unspoken plea in Paige's eyes.

"Get out of here!" Prue commanded again, her voice sharper this time. Paige blinked, nodding in jerky, panicked movements before turning and sprinting past them toward the rooftop door. The sound of her hurried footsteps echoed behind her as she disappeared into the safety of the building below.

The movement jolted Shax from his confused haze, and a low, guttural growl escaped him as his expression darkened with fury. Without hesitation, he turned sharply toward the sisters, his hand igniting with malevolent energy before hurling an energy ball directly at them with alarming speed.

"GET DOWN!" Piper screamed, her voice cutting through the chaos. Instinctively, all of them dove to the ground, narrowly avoiding the crackling mass of destruction that exploded against the wall behind them, sending shards of debris scattering.

Buffy and Cole were the first to spring back to their feet. Without missing a beat, they retaliated, throwing energy ball after energy ball in Shax's direction. The air crackled with the clash of power as the rooftop lit up in bursts of bright, destructive energy. Shax sidestepped some attacks with uncanny agility, but his attention flickered momentarily, his stance unsteady.

"Vanquishing spell," Phoebe muttered breathlessly, scrambling to her feet as Prue helped pull her up. Her voice was urgent but focused, the words pushing past her racing heart. "Say the spell!"

The Halliwell sisters quickly found their rhythm, their voices joining together as one. "Evil wind that blows, that which forms below. No longer may you dwell, death takes you with this spell."

The chant echoed into the night, their combined magic gathering in intensity as they directed it toward Shax. The air seemed to hum with power as a gust of wind tore across the rooftop, converging around their target.

Shax howled in pain, his voice raw and guttural, as their spell took hold. He spun in a chaotic circle, writhing against the invisible force tearing at him. For a moment, it seemed like their magic was working—the sisters watched in grim anticipation as Shax faltered, dropping to his knees with a deep, agonized groan.

And then… he stopped.

The unnatural stillness that followed was deafening. Prue tilted her head slightly, her brows furrowing in confusion as she locked eyes with Shax. His piercing, ice-cold gaze met hers, and a chill ran down her spine. Time seemed to stretch between them, his eyes holding an unreadable intensity that made her feel exposed and vulnerable in a way she hadn't expected.

And then, without a word, Shax's body dissolved into the swirling winds, retreating from the rooftop as suddenly as he had appeared. The force of his departure sent a shiver through the air, and Prue staggered back slightly, goosebumps prickling her skin as she exhaled shakily. Her heart raced in her chest, the adrenaline refusing to fade.

The three sisters remained rooted in place, stunned into silence as the dust began to settle. The night felt eerily quiet in the absence of Shax's presence, and the weight of what they'd just witnessed pressed heavily on them.

Piper was the first to break the silence, her voice low but uneasy. "That wasn't right, was it?" She glanced between Prue and Phoebe, searching their faces for validation, her own filled with doubt. "That didn't look right to you either, right?"

Prue shook her head slowly, her lips pressed into a tight line. Phoebe mirrored her sister's response, her wide eyes reflecting the same perplexity and growing dread.

Across the rooftop, Leo silently knelt beside Shane, his hands glowing with golden light as he began to heal him. The soft hum of his magic was the only sound, an almost fragile counterpoint to the chaos that had just unfolded.

Prue tore her gaze away from her sisters and turned back to the spot where Shax had stood moments ago. The memory of his icy stare was burned into her mind, and her chest tightened with the unease it left behind. Her voice was low, but the sharp edge of frustration and fear was unmistakable. "How the hell did he become unvanquishable!?"

Her question hung in the air, heavy and unanswered, as they stared into the dark night, the unsettling implications of Shax's survival gnawing at their confidence. For the first time in a long time, the Halliwell sisters felt a creeping sense of vulnerability—one they couldn't quite shake.

Halliwell Manor

The front door to Halliwell Manor flew open with a dramatic swing, and Prue, Piper, and Phoebe strode in, their heels clicking against the hardwood floor in perfect unison. They looked like a force of nature—three determined women with purpose etched into their expressions. Behind them trailed Leo, Cole, and Buffy, each keeping pace with the sisters, their faces reflecting varying degrees of worry and confusion.

"Okay! Alright, you all saw that too, right?" Phoebe asked, her voice quick and urgent as she walked briskly toward the kitchen. Her movements were animated, her hands gesturing wildly as she tried to make sense of the situation. "She disappeared—bright white shiny thingies came—and then she reappeared… right? That happened?"

"Oh yeah," Prue replied firmly, her lips pressing into a thin line as she followed Phoebe into the kitchen. She and Piper pulled out stools at the kitchen counter and sat down side by side, both of them still visibly shaken by what they'd witnessed. "That girl orbed. No doubt about it."

Piper, still trying to wrap her mind around the events, turned to Leo with a questioning look. "Yeah, um… how did she do that, by the way?" she asked, her voice tinged with disbelief and hope for an explanation.

Leo's face tensed, his shoulders lifting as if the weight of the question pressed down on him. "I have no idea," he admitted, his tone laced with frustration. "It doesn't make any sense!" He began pacing slightly, his hand absently rubbing the back of his neck.

"Why not?" Cole interjected, his voice calm but curious as he leaned against the kitchen doorway. His posture was casual, but his eyes betrayed the calculating mind of a man who was always assessing the situation. Buffy stood beside him, her arms crossed, her expression sharp and attentive.

"Because why would Shax want to kill a Whitelighter?!" Leo countered, his frustration boiling to the surface as he threw his hands up.

"Maybe he doesn't know she's a Whitelighter?" Buffy suggested, her tone even but with a slight edge, as if daring someone to challenge her logic.

Leo let out a scoff, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "Right. The Source sends out his personal assassin but doesn't know who he's after." His words cut sharply, though the frustration wasn't directed at Buffy as much as the situation itself.

Phoebe, sensing the rising tension, glanced between Buffy and Leo before stepping in to mediate. "Is it possible she didn't know she was a Whitelighter?" she offered, her tone softer but still laced with urgency. "I mean, come on—did you see the look on her face afterward? That girl had no idea!" Her voice rose slightly as she emphasized the last two words, her hands resting firmly on her hips as she stared Leo down.

Leo pinched the bridge of his nose, exhaling sharply through his nose. "Yeah, that doesn't make any sense either," he admitted reluctantly, his voice quieter now but no less exasperated.

Phoebe rolled her eyes dramatically, her frustration palpable. "Okay, why don't you go ask the Elders what does make sense," she suggested, her tone calm but with a subtle edge of authority. "So we don't go risking our lives again," she added, the suggestion framed as a gentle but unmistakable order.

Leo gave a small nod, his expression softening slightly as he stepped closer to Piper. He leaned in and pressed a quick kiss to her lips. "I'll be right back," he promised before disappearing in a swirl of blue and white orbing lights, leaving a faint shimmer in his wake.

Cole cleared his throat, breaking the brief silence that followed Leo's departure. "Maybe Elizabeth and I should, uh… go to the other side and see what I can find out?" he suggested, his gaze dropping momentarily to the floor as he spoke. There was a hint of uncertainty in his voice, but also resolve.

Phoebe's head snapped up, her eyes locking onto Cole's with a mixture of fear and determination. "No," she said firmly, her voice steady but pleading.

Prue's gaze shifted to Buffy, her own worry mirrored in her sister's tone. "I have to second that," she added, her voice tight with concern.

"We'll be careful," Buffy argued instantly, her tone confident and resolute. "Nobody will see us." She squared her shoulders, her eyes narrowing slightly as she tried to convey her readiness.

"And besides," Cole added smoothly, his voice measured and persuasive, "it could be good for Elizabeth and me to go back down—confuse any bounty hunters that might be trying to track us." His eyes flicked briefly to Phoebe, his expression softening as if to reassure her.

Prue looked at Buffy, her lips pressing together in a thin line as she weighed the options. She was torn, her protective instincts battling with her logical side. On the one hand, Cole and Buffy had a point—their suggestion had merit. But on the other, she and Phoebe couldn't ignore the fear that gripped them at the thought of their respective partners putting themselves in danger. Prue's jaw tightened as she glanced between Buffy and Cole, the decision pressing heavily on her shoulders.

Before Prue could utter a word, Phoebe cut her off with a sharp, "No!" Her voice cracked slightly, a mix of fear and defiance evident in the single syllable.

Cole's expression softened as he stepped closer, his presence a grounding force amidst the tension. Gently, he cupped Phoebe's face with his hands, his touch steady and warm. "Phoebe…" he murmured, his voice low and soothing, before leaning in to press a quick, heartfelt kiss to her lips. He lingered just a second longer as though willing her to believe his next words. "…This could really help. Don't worry, I won't disappear again," he promised, punctuating the vow with another tender kiss that left her momentarily breathless.

Buffy, standing nearby, turned her attention to Prue, who was visibly wrestling with her own reservations. Her jaw was tight, her arms crossed defensively, though her eyes betrayed the vulnerability beneath. "Cole's right, and you know it, Prue," Buffy said, her voice calm but firm. She stepped forward, brushing a soft hand along Prue's cheek before pressing a lingering kiss to her lips. Her tone softened as she added, "I'll be back, baby. I promise."

And with that, Buffy and Cole shimmered out in unison, leaving only a faint ripple of magic in their wake. The air felt heavier in their absence, the silence that followed stretching thin and uneasy.

Phoebe exhaled a shaky, loaded sigh, her shoulders slumping as though the weight of the world pressed down on them. She forced her eyes open and turned slowly, locking gazes with Prue. The unspoken worry Phoebe carried mirrored exactly what she saw in her older sister's eyes. It was a fear they rarely voiced aloud, one rooted in the deep, fragile bonds of love and loss.

"They'll be alright," Piper interjected with confidence, breaking the silence. Her voice was steady, almost commanding, as though willing herself to believe it too. "Cole and Buffy know what they're doing." Her gaze shifted between her sisters, determined to inject some reassurance into the fraught moment.

Phoebe nodded hesitantly, her throat bobbing as she swallowed hard. She raked trembling fingers through her hair, exhaling another uneven breath. "Right," she whispered, though the word sounded hollow.

"Right," Prue echoed, though the tension in her voice was undeniable. Her arms dropped to her sides, but her clenched fists hinted at the effort it took to hold herself together.

Despite Piper's words, nothing could fully ease the gnawing dread that gripped Phoebe and Prue—not when it involved Cole and Buffy descending into the Underworld. The unspoken fears loomed large, casting a shadow over their every thought.

Phoebe fell into a heavy, contemplative silence, her hands clasped tightly in her lap as though holding herself together. Meanwhile, Prue pushed herself to her feet and moved to the coffee pot with purposeful strides. The room was tense, the sisters all lost in their thoughts. Piper stood watchfully, her eyes darting between Phoebe and Prue, her own mind racing with questions and doubts.

The spell should have worked. Shax should be dead. The thought hammered through Piper's mind relentlessly. It didn't make any sense. What had gone wrong? Had their magic failed them? Were their powers weakening? Or worse… had the Source discovered some insidious way to strip them of their birthright?

Piper squeezed her eyes shut, her breath shuddering as she placed her hands over her face, trying to hold back the rising tide of frustration and exhaustion. What the hell did they do now? Her thoughts churned, frantic and unanswered.

A sharp clink of porcelain against the countertop jolted her from her spiraling thoughts, and she flinched instinctively before opening her eyes to see Prue standing in front of her. The eldest Halliwell set a steaming mug of coffee down in front of Piper, the rich, comforting aroma filling the space between them. Piper closed her eyes again, this time inhaling deeply, the simple act calming the storm inside her—if only for a moment.

Prue placed a gentle hand on Piper's wrist, her touch both grounding and reassuring. Leaning down, she pressed a soft kiss to Piper's temple, a quiet but powerful gesture of solidarity.

Turning her attention to Phoebe, Prue softened her voice as much as she could. "Here, Phoebe," she said, holding out another mug of coffee. But the sound of her voice, even so gentle, startled Phoebe. She flinched violently, her whole body jerking as though she'd been shocked. Prue grimaced, guilt flickering across her face.

Phoebe's wet, reddened eyes landed on the mug in her sister's outstretched hands, and after a long, shaky exhale, she accepted it. Her fingers curled around the warm ceramic, and she managed a quiet, "Thanks." Though her voice was small, there was a faint but genuine gratitude in it.

Prue offered Phoebe a soft, encouraging smile, her lips curving gently despite the storm of emotions swirling within her. She didn't offer any words of comfort—she knew better. Words, no matter how well-intentioned, wouldn't quell the gnawing anxiety they both felt. Their worries wouldn't ease, not until Cole and Buffy were back, safe and sound, in their arms. Instead, Prue leaned closer, brushing a few loose tendrils of Phoebe's hair away from her face with a tender, almost maternal touch. Without hesitation, she pulled her youngest sister into a tight embrace, offering the comfort that only an elder sister's presence could bring.

Phoebe let out a shaky breath as her shoulders sagged, some of the tension in her body dissolving under the warmth of Prue's touch. For the first time in what felt like hours, the tight knot of stress in her chest loosened ever so slightly. She pulled her mug closer to her chest, the gentle warmth seeping into her palms, and snuggled into Prue's side. Eyes fluttering closed, she allowed herself to bask in the rare, fleeting feeling of safety that her sister unconsciously exuded. For a moment, she wasn't consumed by worry. For a moment, she felt at peace.

But as the minutes stretched in silence, the oppressive quiet gave her mind space to wander. The thoughts that surfaced were sharp and unrelenting, digging into her like thorns. The sense of calm began to slip from her grasp as an unpleasant reality crept back in.

"You know…" Phoebe's voice broke the silence, the words emerging as little more than a whisper. The hesitation in her tone was almost tangible, her throat tightening as if resisting what she was about to say. She licked her lips and shivered, clutching her mug tighter.

Prue paused mid-sip of her coffee, her eyes flicking to Phoebe in concern. She frowned, feeling the tension radiating from her sister. "That what, Phoebe?" she prompted softly, her hand squeezing Phoebe's arm gently, urging her to continue.

Phoebe swallowed hard, her chest rising and falling unevenly. Piper, who had been absently listening, turned to face them, her head tilted in curiosity as she waited for Phoebe to elaborate. "Pheebs?" she asked gently, her brow furrowing in worry.

Phoebe laughed, but it wasn't a sound of humor. It was breathless and hollow, a futile attempt to keep her composure. Her dark eyes shimmered with tears that threatened to spill, though she quickly blinked them back. She shifted closer to Prue, seeking her warmth like a lifeline. "That… um…" she began, her voice cracking as she cleared her throat and rolled her shoulders. "It could've been your funeral today too," she finally admitted, the words tumbling out like stones. Her voice wavered, and she tilted her head to look at Prue, her gaze piercing. "Nearly was."

Prue's eyebrows shot up; her expression stunned. The words hit her like a physical blow, knocking the breath from her lungs. She opened her mouth to respond but found herself momentarily speechless. Oh.

Piper flinched at the statement, her whole body jolting as though the words had physically struck her. Her eyes widened, and a dark frown formed as fury began to burn hot in her chest. What the fuck?

"I…" Prue started, her lips pressing together as she considered the weight of Phoebe's words. They sat heavily in her mind, an unsettling truth she couldn't deny. Phoebe was right. It could've been her funeral today. The thought sent an icy chill through her veins. Well, shit. "I suppose it could've been, yes," she finally admitted, her voice quiet and contemplative.

Piper, meanwhile, was shaking her head in disbelief, her teeth grinding together. She slammed her mug down on the counter with a loud clang, the sudden noise jolting both Prue and Phoebe out of their thoughts. "Stop," she growled, her tone low but filled with a quiet rage.

Prue and Phoebe flinched, their heads snapping toward Piper. For a moment, they were too startled to respond, nearly missing the sharpness in her single-word command.

Piper's glare was icy, her jaw tight as she met Phoebe's gaze. She said nothing more, her anger simmering just below the surface, and turned abruptly toward the sink. Without a word, she busied herself with the dishes, scrubbing furiously, as if trying to scrub away her emotions. She refused to look at either of her sisters, defiance written in every stiff movement.

Prue sighed softly, her gaze flicking between Phoebe and Piper. Swallowing hard, she squeezed Phoebe's shoulders reassuringly, offering a faint smile. Then, she stepped away, approaching Piper with quiet determination.

"Piper?" Prue called softly, coming up behind her. Gently, she wrapped her arms around Piper's waist, leaning her chin against her sister's shoulder. "Talk now, please?" she urged, her voice calm but insistent.

Piper froze for a moment, her hands stilling in the soapy water. She opened her mouth as if to speak, a sharp sigh escaping her lips—but then she shook her head stiffly, her mouth snapping shut again. The words lingered in her throat, refusing to come out.

Prue frowned. "Um…" she murmured, releasing her grip on Piper's shoulders. She turned toward Phoebe, raising her eyebrows in a silent, questioning gesture, her unease growing with each passing second.

Phoebe, visibly nervous, took a deep breath and hesitated before stepping closer to Piper. Her mug made a hollow clink as she abandoned it on the counter, the sound sharp in the otherwise quiet room. She glanced at Prue, who gave her a faint, encouraging nod, though her own uncertainty was evident in her furrowed brow.

Prue lifted her shoulders in a subtle shrug, a wordless signal that she had no idea what was about to unfold. Phoebe shook her head slightly in response, fully aware that whatever storm was brewing in Piper's chest, it was directed at her.

"Piper, honey?" Phoebe called gently, her voice soft and careful, like a hand extended to soothe a skittish animal. She reached out hesitantly, her fingertips brushing against Piper's shoulder in a tentative attempt to comfort her.

The reaction was immediate and startling. Piper violently shrugged off Phoebe's touch, spinning around so fast that Phoebe flinched, taking a half-step back.

Phoebe froze, startled by the sheer intensity radiating from her sister. Piper's eyes, usually warm and kind, were now darkened with fury, her gaze cutting like a blade.

"Why?" Piper hissed, her voice low and trembling with anger, each word dripping with barely contained emotion. Her narrowed eyes burned into Phoebe's; the weight of her unspoken accusation heavy in the air.

Phoebe frowned, her confusion growing with every passing moment. "Why what?" she asked, her voice small and uncertain as she glanced helplessly at Prue. But Prue, for once, looked as lost as she felt, her mouth slightly open as though she, too, was grasping for answers.

Piper's expression twisted further, her frustration mounting. "Why would you bring that up?" she demanded, her voice rising as her emotions spilled over. Her hands clenched at her sides before snatching the dishcloth from beside the sink with sharp, jerky movements. "If it isn't bad enough that you and Buffy are the reason it happened in the first place," she spat bitterly, her voice breaking slightly, "you feel it necessary to force us into reliving it?!"

Prue's eyes widened, the venom in Piper's tone unlike anything she'd heard from her sister before. Alarmed, she instinctively moved closer to Phoebe, positioning herself protectively as Piper took an intimidating step forward.

Phoebe instinctively shrank back, her shoulders hunching as the hostility washed over her like a tidal wave.

"Answer me this, Phoebe: are you insane or just plain stupid?" Piper continued, her words like a slap in the face.

"Piper!" Prue's voice rang out sharply, a mix of disbelief and reprimand. But Piper didn't even pause, her anger a force that could not be contained.

"How could you possibly think that leaving us—your sisters—to go and save that… that demon was a good idea escapes me," Piper fumed, her voice trembling with raw hurt. Her chest heaved as the weight of her words seemed to press down on everyone in the room. "We needed you, Phoebe, and you abandoned us! Prue died because you and Buffy didn't care! You chose that demonic boyfriend of yours over your own family, and it almost cost me my big sister!" Piper's voice broke entirely now, her eyes glistening as tears began to spill freely down her face. Her hands trembled with rage as her emotions threatened to overtake her completely.

Phoebe stood frozen; her wide, tear-filled eyes locked on Piper. The harshness of her sister's words sliced deep, the weight of her guilt threatening to crush her. Her lips parted, but no words came at first as she tried to breathe past the lump in her throat. When she finally spoke, her voice was a barely audible whisper. "I'm sorry," she said, her words trembling with sincerity. The vulnerability in her tone was palpable, a quiet plea for forgiveness.

Piper didn't seem to hear her, her anger still burning too brightly. But Prue had seen enough. "Piper, stop!" she ordered firmly, her voice cutting through the storm of emotions like a beacon.

She stepped forward quickly, her hands grabbing Piper's wrists in a strong but steady grip. She turned her sister to face her, forcing their eyes to meet. Piper's face was flushed, her breaths uneven as she glared back at Prue.

"That is enough," Prue said, her voice low but commanding.

Piper glared at Prue, her eyes blazing through the veil of tears streaming down her cheeks. Her voice trembled with fury and pain as she spat out, "And you! How dare you have such disregard for your own life!" The raw emotion in her voice made her words feel like daggers as she stared Prue dead in the eyes. "I mean, what the hell were you thinking jumping in front of that energy ball?!"

Prue arched her brows, the defensive wall going up instantly. Her hands found her hips, her stance firm as her voice sharpened in response. "I was thinking, 'I need to protect this innocent,' because gosh! That's kinda what we do, Piper! Protect the innocent!" she snapped, her tone laced with defiance as her eyes burned with righteous indignation.

"Not at the expense of our own lives, Prue!" Piper shot back, her voice rising with unrestrained anger. Her words came rapid-fire, each one hitting its mark. "I mean, god! Don't you give a damn about Phoebe and me?" Her voice cracked on the last word, but the intensity of her gaze never wavered.

Prue's expression faltered. She jerked back as though Piper had physically struck her. Her lips parted in disbelief, and hurt flickered in her eyes. "Of course, I 'give a damn,' Piper," she retorted, her voice softening with unspoken pain. "You and Phoebe mean the world to me. How could you ever question that?" Her words were firm but heavy with emotion.

Piper scoffed, shaking her head as if to dismiss the sentiment outright. "How could I ever… maybe because you have a really funny way of showing it, Prue!" she accused, her trembling hand stabbing a finger into Prue's shoulder with each syllable. "We need you! We've always needed you, and we always will! You—you're my best friend!" Her voice cracked under the weight of her feelings, and her eyes glistened with fresh tears.

Prue stared at her, stunned into silence, her wide eyes searching Piper's for something—maybe forgiveness, maybe understanding. She glanced at Phoebe, who stood to the side with tears streaming down her face, her expression a mirror of the heartbreak in the room. Prue opened her mouth, a soft "I—" escaping, but Piper cut her off before she could even start.

"You risk your life every day, and you never once think about what would happen to me and Phoebe if you were gone!" Piper's voice grew higher, more desperate, as her words spilled out in a torrent of raw emotion. "How… how can you think that I could live without you?!" A sob broke free, and she buried her face in her hands, her shoulders shaking as her words dissolved into muffled cries.

Prue exhaled sharply, her composure cracking further. She swallowed hard, her throat tight as she tried to speak again. "Piper, I—"

"No!" Piper's hand shot up, silencing her elder sister with a forceful wave. "Don't you dare defend yourself, Prudence. I know exactly what you're trying to do," she said, her voice dropping into a lower, more dangerous tone as she crossed her arms.

"She was trying to save an innocent, Piper!" Phoebe interjected, her voice thin and shaky, as if she were trying to summon strength she didn't have. But her words lacked the conviction needed to sway her middle sister, and Piper barely spared her a glance before continuing.

"No!" Piper barked, her frustration boiling over as her hand slammed against the counter, making the dishcloth nearby tremble. "No, she was trying to get herself killed! Which is what this family does best—is get killed!" Her voice cracked as her anger turned into heartbreak. She gestured wildly, her arms flailing as her emotions spilled out uncontrollably. "Isn't it obvious by now that our only destiny is to die? And you're making it way too easy for them, Prue! You're just walking right into it!" Her voice broke completely, and she threw her arms out, closing her eyes tightly before covering them with one trembling hand.

Phoebe closed her eyes as well, her chest heaving as she exhaled shakily. Her hand flew up to her mouth, trying to muffle the sob that escaped, but it still broke through the tense air. Her other hand gripped the edge of the counter as though it were the only thing keeping her upright.

Prue bit her lip, her own eyes misting as she fought to keep her emotions in check. She took a deep breath, her hands trembling slightly as she stepped forward with purpose. Without a word, she wrapped her arms around Piper, pulling her into the tightest embrace she could muster. "I'm sorry," she whispered, her voice trembling with sincerity. "I am so sorry."

Piper didn't hesitate. She clung to Prue like a lifeline, her sobs coming harder now, shaking her entire body as she buried her face in her sister's shoulder. The pain and frustration she had been holding in came pouring out, raw and unrestrained.

Behind them, Phoebe whimpered softly, the sound breaking Prue's heart all over again. She reached back, grabbing her youngest sister's hand and pulling her into the embrace. Phoebe melted into them, crying aloud as she buried her face into the crook of Prue's neck, her tears mingling with Piper's.

Lifting her head slightly, Piper tried to find Phoebe's gaze through her own tear-blurred vision. "Phoebe, I'm—" she started, but her voice cracked, and Phoebe quickly shook her head.

"It's okay," Phoebe whispered thickly, her voice barely audible through her sobs. "You… you were right." She sniffled, her lips trembling as she tried to form the words. "I'm sorry. I'll never abandon you guys again, I promise. I love you; I really do, more than anything. You're… you're my sisters."

Prue tightened her grip around both of them, her chin resting against Piper's head as she whispered soothingly. "It's okay," she cooed gently, her voice barely above a breath as she tried to reassure them. "It's alright, everything's okay, okay?" She glanced between them, waiting for their nods before continuing. "We're gonna be fine, I promise," she said firmly, though her voice still trembled.