A New Family For Buffy

by Brenna's Urbangirl Projects

Instead of Spike learning that Buffy had been in Heaven, it is Dawn who learns. Dawn in an attempt to help Buffy, get over what Willow had done to Buffy by yanking her sister out of Heaven, calls her birth mother, Prue Halliwell

38. Chapter 38: Brain Drain Part 1

Chapter 38: Brain Drain Part 1

November 8, 2002 – Friday

P3

Dawn entered the club for the first time as a customer instead of a family member, Piper had gotten permits to allow teenagers into the club and still serve alcohol in anticipation for Dawn's first date with Erin. She searched the sea of faces until she saw her. Erin was sitting in the owner's alcove.

Dawn glanced toward Piper and smiled in thanks for letting her and Erin use the booth. She approached Erin slowly. "Hey, there, beautiful," she said.

Erin slowly raised her eyes from Dawn's feet all the way to her eyes and then looked deep into her gorgeous eyes. "You are, by far, the most beautiful thing on this planet." She softly laughed as she raised Dawn's hand in hers and kissed it softly. "Want to dance?"

Dawn nodded yes, and they walked to the dance floor. They started to dance to the slow love song that Piper's DJ had put on.

The song eventually stopped and a faster, more rhythm-based song came on and they started dancing standing as close as they did for the slow dance. Dawn knew how to dance, mostly from watching Buffy, and knew what to do to make Erin squirm, or so she thought. Instead, she learned that Erin was a fantastic dancer herself. As they continued into the night, they shared conversations about everything possible.

Just as the two caught eyes and slowly started to lean in to kiss, Dawn saw a man leading a young girl out the back door and noticed that he didn't have a reflection in the adjacent mirror. Right as their lips touched Dawn pulled back, and quickly stated, "Hold that thought, oh God, please hold that thought." She quickly pushed Erin aside and ran toward the bar. "Aunt Piper!" she cried. "Vampire!"

Ever since Buffy had moved into the manor and Piper had learned that vampires were real. She had made sure to keep a stake handy. So far, she hadn't had a need to use it. She reached into her purse and pulled out the stake before tossing it to Dawn. They both then hurried for the back door. Unbeknownst to them, Erin was following in a sprint.

Dawn slung the door open and she and Piper heard the girl scream, they quickly ran to the corner of the alley and saw the scene. The vampire hadn't sunk his teeth into the girl yet.

Piper quickly shouted, "Hey let her go!" The vampire noticed her and Dawn and laughed.

"Oh, more food, this night couldn't get much better," he laughed to himself.

Dawn and Piper glanced at each other and then rolled their eyes. As the vampire approached them, he dropped the young scared girl.

Piper smirked as she flicked her wrists freezing the vampire. Dawn sprinted forward and drove the stake into the vampire's heart and he quickly exploded into dust.

They heard a group clapping. When Dawn and Piper looked up, they saw a group of vampires closing in on them and the scared girl. Dawn quickly helped the scared girl to her feet and told her to run. As the girl ran around the corner, she bumped into Erin with eyes full of tears, Erin asked her, "What's going on?" The girl just looked Erin in the eyes with fear and ran. So, Erin hurried around the corner to find Dawn and Piper ready to face five vampires.

Erin quickly walked up beside Dawn and Piper. "Friends of yours?" she asked them and pointed at the approaching vampires.

Dawn and Piper looked at each other, their eyes wide. They just saved one person only to have Dawn's date follow them out here into a bad situation. "Erin, you got to get out of here!" Dawn ordered.

Before anyone could think of actually running. They were surrounded.

Dawn glanced at Piper and mouthed, "Portal?"

Erin looked at Dawn and Piper. "I don't think leaving is an option," she whispered. She looked at the stake in Dawn's hands. "You wouldn't happen to have another stake would you, Dawn? Vampires are hard to kill you know."

"How do you know about vampires…" before Dawn could finish all five swarmed toward them. Dawn turned to Erin only to be more surprised. As three vamps approached Erin, she opened her jacket and pulled out a sword.

Dawn and Piper looked at each other. Who carried a sword under their jacket?

Erin raised her arm and quickly swung, "There can be only one!" she shouted as two vampires' heads rolled, and dust flew.

Dawn and Piper turned their attention to the other vampires. Dawn gave a quick boot to the shin, and as he bent to grab his shin, she thrust the stake through the vampire's back into its heart.

Piper's vampire found himself exploding to dust with a flick of her wrist before he had a chance to knock her to the ground with a right hook.

Piper and Dawn heard a third slice sound from Erin's sword as the last vampire exploded to dust. "Are you both alright?" Erin asked looking at Dawn and Piper. "What were you two thinking taking on all those vampires?"

"And I think that question comes back on you," Piper replied. "Why don't we take this conversation inside before we're ambushed again." She turned and led Erin and Dawn back inside and to the owner's alcove. "So, who are you?"

"My real name is Erin O'Connor," Erin answered as she dropped her American accent for a decided Irish accent.

"O'Connor?" Dawn said repeating the name. She knew from Buffy that Angel's real name had been Liam O'Connor.

"I take it that name is familiar to you?" Erin questioned.

Dawn glanced toward Piper and then slowly nodded as she looked back at Erin. "You're not a vampire, are you?"

"You've seen me during the day, Dawn, remember?" Erin reminded her with a small chuckle.

"Oh, right," Dawn agreed with another glance at Piper. She looked back at Erin. "Yes, the name is familiar to me. My sister dated a vampire who had been cursed with his soul. He had been born Liam O'Connor."

Erin nodded with a sigh. "Yes, I know the name. He isn't of my descent, but my brother's, as I suffered my first death at the age of eighteen before I ever had the privilege of bearing a child. I'm immortal." She looked at Piper and Dawn. "There is quite a bit of an explanation that goes along with that, something that shouldn't be discussed here. So, let's table that discussion for a moment. I take it you two are witches?"

"Yes," Dawn answered before Piper could stop her.

"Dawn!" Piper warned.

"Ms. Halliwell," Erin said looking at the woman. "You are not the first witch with active powers I've come across in over three hundred years. "I was actually in Salem when the witch trials were going on. I had been immortal for twenty years and thought coming to America I could get away from what some of my fellow immortals call The Game. I didn't know there were immortals already here. Anyways I met this one witch, very helpful. She taught me this potion that I could use to mask my identity so it wouldn't be obvious that I didn't age."

"What was her name?" Piper wondered out of curiosity.

"Melinda Warren," Erin answered as she noticed Dawn and Piper look at each other. "You both know of her, I take it."

"Yes," Piper answered reluctantly. "She is our ancestor."

"Then you, Ms. Halliwell and your sisters are the Charmed Ones," Erin said in realization. "I was there when she uttered the prophecy that foretold of your arrival." She then looked toward Dawn. "Which makes your sister the Charmed Slayer." She glanced back at Piper. "I was there for that prophecy as well."

November 9, 2002 – Saturday

Halliwell Manor

"Damn it!" Piper cursed as she stared into her open oven, her face a mask of frustration. "These ones are burnt too!" She sighed deeply, the weight of her disappointment clear in her voice as she reached in with her oven-gloved hand, yanking out the tray of crispy black cookies. She couldn't hide the sadness in her eyes. "I'm losing my touch," she stated softly, her words laced with a mix of self-doubt and resignation. She threw the tray onto the counter, alongside her perfectly golden batch and the not-so-golden batch of cooling homemade treats, the contrast stark and unforgiving.

Phoebe shook her head vigorously, her heart aching for her older sister. "Oh, no, it's okay, sweetie," she assured Piper, her voice soothing as she closed the oven door gently, preventing Piper from giving it a well-deserved kick. "They're just a little crisp."

Piper merely rolled her eyes and sighed; her gaze fixed on her imperfect creations. The frustration in her body language was palpable.

Phoebe smirked, trying to lighten the mood. "You know..." she spoke loudly, making sure that Piper heard her. "...personally, I am glad that you're not a chef anymore." She stated with a teasing smile, chuckling when Piper shot her a bewildered look. "I'd probably be three hundred pounds by now," she elaborated, a playful glint in her eyes.

"Who's three hundred pounds?" Buffy questioned, her curious voice filling the kitchen as she entered. She smiled warmly at her aunts, then headed straight for the coffee pot, her movements casual and familiar.

"Me," Phoebe answered simply. Buffy turned, looked her up and down, then frowned as she poured her coffee and walked around the other side of the island to face them. Phoebe chuckled again. "Well, I would be if Piper was still a chef," she explained, her tone light and affectionate. Buffy nodded in understanding.

"Oh yeah. Me too," Buffy agreed with a nod, then turned to her other aunt, who was still staring intently at her cookies, lost in her thoughts.

"Maybe I should make another batch," Piper mused aloud, her mind seemingly oblivious to the reassurances and banter from her sister and niece. She was lost in her own world of culinary perfection, her frustration simmering just beneath the surface.

Phoebe bit her lip, inching closer to Piper with a mixture of concern and amusement. "Um... Piper?" she called softly. Piper inclined her head ever-so-slightly, acknowledging her sister's presence. "Remember when you told me to tell you when you're obsessing?" Phoebe asked, trying to keep the smile from her face.

Piper dropped her spatula and turned to her sharply, her eyes flashing. "I'm not obsessing!" she insisted, the intensity of her denial clear in her voice. Buffy snorted, unable to hide her amusement, and quickly buried her head in her mug to avoid Piper's scowl. "I just want everything to be perfect, that's all," Piper defended, her tone softening slightly.

Buffy nodded slowly, a knowing smirk playing on her lips. "Yeah, but Aunt Piper… it's a baby shower, not a royal wedding," she pointed out, her voice laced with gentle teasing.

Piper scowled at her eldest niece, sticking out her tongue in a rare display of childish defiance just as Dawn entered the kitchen, heading straight for the fridge. "Ha. Ha," she retorted, her frustration momentarily giving way to a hint of a smile.

Phoebe, sensing the moment was right, pressed on. "Besides, don't you think you're doing enough already?" she asked her flustered sister, her voice gentle yet firm. "For god's sake, you're hosting it, and you're not even close to Wendy anymore."

Piper let out a heavy sigh, the weight of her responsibilities evident in her expression. "That is precisely why I am doing all of this," she explained, her voice tinged with a mix of determination and sadness. "I swear to god, in the last couple of years, we've vanquished more friendships than we have demons."

Dawn reached into the fridge for the milk, muttering under her breath, "Oh, come on."

"What?" Buffy asked, turning to her sister as Piper looked up from her baking.

Dawn held up the empty carton of milk, shaking it in the air with a frustrated expression. "Got milk?"

Piper took a deep breath, her patience visibly wearing thin. "Somebody forgot to put it on the list again," she huffed, her tone tinged with exasperation.

Phoebe stepped in, her voice calm and soothing. "Okay, well, we have to be patient," she instructed, trying to defuse the tension. "It's going to take Paige time to adjust to living here."

Piper nodded, though her frustration was still evident. "Yes, but still. There are common courtesies... Common sense… Rules."

Buffy, trying to bridge the gap, admitted, "Yeah, Aunt Piper is right. With the number of us living here now…"

Phoebe nodded, a sly smile playing on her lips as she attempted to lift the mood. "Yeah... but you gotta admit, it's nice having the Power of Three under one roof," she said cheerfully, her eyes sparkling with optimism.

"Right," Piper sneered, her irritation still simmering. "Grab those," she instructed, pointing at the homemade gift baskets filled with meticulously arranged goodies.

Buffy discarded her coffee mug in the sink just as Dawn and Phoebe each lifted a basket into their arms, grinning at the frills and pink decorations oozing from them. The baskets were a testament to Piper's effort to create something special, despite her earlier frustrations.

"So cute," Phoebe murmured to herself, her eyes twinkling as she followed her sister out of the kitchen.

Dawn was about to follow Piper and Phoebe when Buffy gently grabbed her arm. "How was your date?" Buffy asked, her curiosity piqued.

"Seems Erin has been keeping secrets," Dawn admitted, a hint of bewilderment in her voice. "Apparently, she's over three hundred years old."

Buffy's eyes went wide with surprise. "You fell for a vampire?" she asked, struggling to mask her shock.

"No," Dawn replied, shaking her head. "Apparently, there are people who suffer what they call a first death. They then wake up as immortals. There is no siring. Erin said she was what she termed pre-immortal in the mid-sixteen hundreds. Also, she said her brother was Angel's grandfather."

"Wow," Buffy said, her mind racing with this new revelation. She started to stride out of the kitchen, her thoughts already formulating a plan. "We're going to have to look into her. Make sure she's on the level."

"Maybe it's time to patch things up with the guys?" Dawn suggested, her tone hopeful. "Then you can get Willow to do some hacking."

"Maybe," Buffy agreed, a wistful look crossing her face. "I do miss them."

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

"Aunt Phoebe sure would love to throw one of these for you someday," Phoebe hinted, her voice full of unspoken dreams and hopes as Buffy and Dawn caught up to her and Piper.

"Ah!" Piper cried out as she tripped over one of Paige's wooden fold-away chairs, nearly dropping her last tray of un-burnt cookies. "Damn it! Paige!" she yelled up the stairs, her frustration echoing through the house.

"You okay, Aunt Piper?" Buffy asked with concern as they continued walking. Piper nodded, though the near-miss had clearly rattled her.

"Hey! You are avoiding!" Phoebe accused, her frown deepening as she stomped behind them. "Don't."

"I'm not avoiding. I'm ignoring you," Piper answered honestly, not missing a beat as she kept her pace.

Phoebe scowled, her frustration growing. "Well, you can't ignore that beautiful little girl that you saw in the future," she insisted as they walked through the living room and into the sitting room, placing the gifts and food on the table. "And if my math is right…" she continued with a cheeky grin, "…then you and Leo better start, you know, right about now." She nudged Piper's arm with a smirk, her eyebrows waggling suggestively.

"We saw a lot of things in that future that are going to be different now," Piper stated determinedly, her voice firm. "Like, uh... you won't be getting burned at the stake. Leo and I will not be divorced!" Her tone softened with a mix of resolve and sadness. "Prue's dead. We know our nieces. And then there's also the new addition that is Paige Mathews," she added, glancing up towards the ceiling where Paige was.

"Yeah, but that doesn't mean that you can't have kids!" Phoebe shot back at her, hands on her hips, her eyes blazing with determination. "Don't you want little kids?" she added in her 'baby Phoebe' voice, a playful yet earnest plea.

Piper's face tightened with frustration, her mind racing with the weight of their magical responsibilities. "Not with demons dropping in all the time," she retorted, her voice tinged with a mix of exasperation and sorrow. Just then, Cole shimmered into the spot Piper had previously gestured to, his sudden presence adding to the tension.

"Phoebe?" Cole called out, his tone urgent, but Phoebe held up her hand, silencing him with a determined glare.

"Hold that thought," Phoebe instructed, her focus unwavering as she turned back to her sister. She pointed at Piper with fierce resolve. "Okay, you... Generations of Halliwells have fought demons and had kids. It didn't stop them, why should it stop you?" Her disappointment was palpable, a mix of frustration and heartache for her sister's struggles.

Piper folded her arms across her chest, her eyes narrowing as she shot Phoebe a pointed look. "Did it ever occur to you..." she began, her voice deceptively cheerful before it sharpened into a snap, "...that maybe this is none of your business?" She leaned toward Phoebe; her anger barely contained.

Phoebe waved her hand dismissively, her determination undeterred. "Oh, that is beside the point."

"Phoebe," Cole called out again, his urgency growing, but Phoebe ignored him, her focus entirely on Piper.

Piper's eyes softened slightly, her voice trembling with emotion as she revealed her deepest fear. "I couldn't bear the thought of my own child having to grow up without me," she admitted, the vulnerability in her words cutting through the tension like a knife.

Buffy looked toward Dawn; her eyes filled with empathy. She knew exactly how Piper felt. Ever since the revelation that Patty had a premonition of her with her baby, Buffy had clung to that hope, yearning for the child she was destined to have. Yet, the dark cloud of doubt loomed over her—could she truly bring a child into this perilous world, knowing the very real risk that she might die for a third time?

Phoebe sighed, shaking her head adamantly, her frustration bubbling over. "But… I… we… just… no! It's different for us. We're the Charmed Ones, for god's sake! That's got to make a difference in the death department," she argued defiantly, her voice filled with the fervor of her convictions. "How does Leo feel about this?" she asked, her tone softening slightly as she shifted her focus.

Piper shook her head, her voice casual but her eyes betraying the turmoil within. "I haven't talked to Leo about this yet," she replied, her words hanging heavily in the air.

Phoebe smacked a hand to her forehead in exasperation. "Oh my god!" she cried heavily; her disbelief palpable. "Okay, I really think we should talk to him about this," she said, her tone turning serious as she locked eyes with her sister.

Piper gawked at her, fury sparking in her eyes. "We?" she echoed, sounding both incredulous and angry. The suggestion of involving Phoebe in such a personal matter felt like an invasion.

Before Phoebe could respond, Cole's piercing whistle cut through the air, sharp and attention-grabbing. Piper jumped, leaning far away from the noise as Buffy and Dawn tensed, their muscles coiled in instinctive reaction.

Phoebe pressed a finger against her ear, trying to block out the ringing as she turned to her boyfriend. "Yes, Cole, what is it?" she asked calmly, her voice a stark contrast to the chaos swirling around them.

Cole addressed Piper and Buffy with a sense of urgency. "Okay. One of you freeze the room fast, then unfreeze only me," he instructed, his tone brooking no argument.

Piper frowned in confusion, her mind racing to keep up with his unexpected command. "What? Why?" she questioned, her voice tinged with suspicion as her sister and nieces looked on, equally puzzled.

Cole closed his eyes, visibly struggling to control his temper. "Just... do what I say and I'll explain after," he promised, his voice tight with restrained impatience.

Piper glanced at Buffy, who shrugged. With a reluctant sigh, Piper waved her hand at her niece, signaling her to proceed. Buffy threw up her hands, freezing the room in an instant.

"Oh, please don't blow him up," Phoebe begged, her voice a mix of worry and exasperation as she eyed her boyfriend anxiously.

Buffy rolled her eyes, her teenage demeanor showing through. "I'll try," she replied with a hint of sarcasm. Then she lazily threw up one hand, directing her power at Cole. He unfroze, still intact, much to Phoebe's relief.

"The rest of the room still frozen?" Cole asked immediately, his eyes darting around the room to confirm.

"Cole!" Piper snapped, her frustration bubbling over. "We're the only ones in the room," she pointed out, her tone exasperated as she watched him move around slowly, scanning the space for any hidden threats.

Cole suddenly began grabbing random pieces of furniture, his movements quick and calculated. "There's a chameleon in the room," he informed them, his voice urgent as he swiftly dove at another piece, his eyes darting around the room.

Piper frowned, her confusion deepening. Buffy took a cautious step forward. "A lizard?" she asked slowly, trying to make sense of his frantic behavior.

"Honey, you're worried about a lizard?" Phoebe added, her concern evident in her voice as she watched her boyfriend move around the room like a man possessed.

Cole shook his head, frustration etched on his face. "This chameleon's a demon," he corrected her while touching some more items, his focus unwavering. "One who can transform into any object just to spy on you."

Dawn bit back laughter, the absurdity of the situation almost too much to bear. "You... you trying to tell us the Manor is... supernaturally bugged?" she asked sarcastically, her voice dripping with disbelief.

"Uh-huh. Has been for some time, apparently," Cole replied, his tone grim as he continued his search.

"Oh my god, you're serious!" Piper cried in surprise, the realization hitting her like a ton of bricks. She turned to her nieces, her eyes wide with panic. "Oh my god, he's serious!" she repeated, her voice trembling slightly.

Buffy kept her eyes on Cole, her mind racing. "Explains why the Source hasn't attacked in a while," she stated, the pieces of the puzzle falling into place. Cole nodded his agreement, his expression confirming her suspicions.

"He's had his chameleons watching your every move, gathering inside information," Cole continued, his eyes scanning every piece of furniture, now standing in the middle of the living room with an intensity that made everyone uneasy.

Phoebe grabbed Piper's hand; her grip tight with anxiety. "That's creepy," she whispered, her eyes darting about the room, looking for any signs of the hidden demon.

"Look around," Cole instructed, his voice steady but urgent. "What's not supposed to be here?" he asked, his gaze piercing as he searched for any anomalies.

Piper's smirk slowly formed as her eyes landed on a particularly hideous red-patterned wooden chair in the corner. She flicked her wrists with a practiced ease, and the chair exploded into smithereens with a satisfying burst of energy.

Cole walked over to the remains slowly, examining the scattered pieces as Piper struggled not to laugh out loud. Phoebe glared at her; her disapproval evident.

"That was Aunt Paige's chair, Aunt Piper!" Dawn exclaimed, folding her arms across her chest, her expression a mix of amusement and reproach.

Piper nodded, unabashed. "I know," she answered, grinning widely. "It was ugly."

Just then, the clock chimed, signaling the end of Buffy's freeze. The slight shiver of reality settling back into place was almost palpable.

"The room just unfroze," Cole announced loudly, his voice cutting through the lingering tension. He looked around, making sure everyone was aware of the change.

Dawn looked around the room, her eyes scanning for anything out of place. "Oh, um..." She grabbed Piper's arm; her voice hesitant. "Aunt Piper, is that a new lamp?" she asked slowly, pointing to the unfamiliar object in the corner.

Phoebe, Buffy, and Piper turned sharply toward the lamp, their eyes narrowing in suspicion. They and Dawn watched silently, their breath caught in their throats, as the lamp began to shimmer and transform. In a matter of seconds, it morphed into a tall, grey-haired demon clad in black.

Dawn, Piper, and Phoebe shrieked in unison, jumping back instinctively. Dawn yanked Phoebe in front of her, Phoebe did the same to Piper, and Piper, not to be outdone, pulled Buffy in front of her. The comical chain reaction did little to alleviate the rising tension.

The demon threw out his arm in a swift, decisive motion, mimicking Buffy's telekinesis. The powerful force sent all four women flying over the couch, their cries of surprise echoing through the room. The demon then turned his attention to Cole, who stood ready, an energy ball crackling in his hand. Without hesitation, Cole hurled the energy ball at the demon, the impact obliterating the demon's right arm. Green blood and gunk splattered everywhere, decorating the beautiful pink and frilly gift baskets in a grotesque tableau.

The Chameleon smirked, unfazed by the loss of his limb. Before their eyes, another arm grew in its place, the regeneration quick and unsettling.

Dawn, Piper, Buffy, and Phoebe shot up from behind the couch, their determination renewed. Piper's eyes blazed with fury as she took charge. "Cole, get back," she ordered through clenched teeth. She threw out one hand, flicking her wrist toward the demon. The demon, anticipating the move, ducked out of the way just in time, causing Piper's blast to strike the grandfather clock instead. The clock shattered into pieces, the remnants of its ornate face scattering across the floor.

"Aunt Piper!" Dawn exclaimed, exasperation in her voice. "Remember, we just got that fixed!"

"I know," Piper grimaced as they sprinted after the Chameleon, who was fleeing into the foyer. "But it's not my fault he ducked. The guy's got good reflexes."

Cole, undeterred, fired another energy ball at the swiftly moving target. The Chameleon demon dived out of the way with uncanny agility. The energy ball, now without a target, hurtled toward an unsuspecting Paige who was descending the stairs, laundry basket in hand, earbuds in her ears. In the split second she opened her eyes and saw the glowing sphere barreling toward her, she orbed out just in time, her laundry scattering in all directions, less fortunate than their owner.

The Chameleon demon jumped to his feet, glancing around wildly. Realizing he was outnumbered, he shimmered out to safety, leaving behind a tense and disheveled scene.

Paige reappeared a moment later, her eyes wide with shock. "What the hell happened?" she demanded, looking between her sisters with a mixture of confusion and irritation.

"The freakin' furniture just attacked!" Piper replied tersely, her frustration palpable as she gestured to the now-empty foyer where the battle had just taken place.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

"Do you know how long the Chameleon demon was in the house?" Leo asked as he bent over Phoebe, who was lying on the couch, in order to heal the gash on her forehead. His hands glowed softly as the healing magic began to take effect.

"I don't know," Phoebe replied with a shrug, wincing slightly as the wound closed. "The lamp has been here for at least three days, maybe more," she concluded just as Leo finished healing her, the gash disappearing without a trace.

"What do you think he wants?" Dawn asked from beside her sister, her arms folded across her chest, a frown marring her usually cheerful face.

Cole resisted the urge to sigh, his patience wearing thin. "I told you, gathering information," he reiterated, trying to maintain his composure.

"But for what? For why?" Piper questioned, pacing up and down the room, her frustration evident in her restless movements.

"For the Source's next attack," Cole answered truthfully, his voice steady. The gravity of his words hung in the air, heavy with the implication of impending danger.

"Excuse me?" Paige called, walking into the living room with a piece of her demolished chair in hand, her expression a mix of exasperation and amusement. "Is there any way to claim this kind of damage on our homeowner's insurance policy?" she asked, sounding hopeful despite the absurdity of the question.

"Usually not," Buffy replied, shaking her head as she remembered all the damage done over the years to Joyce's house in Sunnydale by demons.

"Usually?" Paige echoed, her voice tinged with a mix of disbelief and weariness, shoulders slumping slightly. "What do you mean, I can expect my furniture to get blown up again?" Her eyes flickered between Buffy and Dawn, who exchanged a knowing look before nodding with a small, almost sympathetic smile. Paige sighed heavily, resigned to the unpredictable chaos that seemed to define their lives.

"Expect the unexpected," Phoebe advised her younger sister gently, a touch of ruefulness in her tone. "That's rule number one in the Halliwell Manor."

"Want to learn the rest?" Piper added casually, as if discussing the weather.

Dawn smirked mischievously, nudging Buffy with a pointed elbow. They had learned all too well the rules of living in the Manor—the hard way.

"Um… maybe now is not the time," Phoebe suggested diplomatically, her focus already shifting to the pressing task at hand. "Considering we have to figure out a way to find this demon."

"Well, you could try scrying using his blood," Leo offered, his gaze briefly flitting to the unsettling pool of green goo nearby.

Piper glared daggers at the offending green goo spread across the floor. "And we've got plenty of that. Although I don't know what good it would do to find him now," she muttered, sinking into a chair next to her husband.

"Whatever he's learned, he's already told the Source," Cole added, pushing off the wall and striding purposefully toward the huddled group. "Except that he might also know what the Source's plan is. How he's going to attack. Find him, we might be able to find that out."

"I know!" Paige interjected brightly, her voice carrying a hint of optimism. "What about pooling our money into a fund to cover anybody's damage, no matter who's it is?" She offered the suggestion with a hopeful smile.

"Let it go, Aunt Paige," Buffy said gently, causing Paige to sigh sadly. "Besides, the chair wasn't that pretty anyway," she teased, a mischievous grin tugging at her lips.

Paige gasped dramatically, playfully whacking Buffy on the shoulder. The room erupted in laughter as Dawn, Piper, and Phoebe joined in, enjoying the lighthearted moment amid the tension.

The jovial atmosphere froze abruptly at the sound of the doorbell.

Buffy sprang up from her seat, her movements cautious yet swift as she made her way to the front door, sensing the collective curiosity of Dawn, Piper, and Phoebe close behind. A silent exchange of glances passed between them before Buffy yanked the door open with a suddenness that startled the visitor on the other side.

"Whoa! Scared me," the tall blond woman exclaimed, spinning around to face them with a bright smile. "Hey, Payson, Dawn, Phoebe," she greeted warmly. "It's been a long time."

Dawn nodded slowly, trying to place the woman's name without success. "Yes, it has," she agreed politely.

"Hey," the woman turned to Piper, her expression apologetic. "Sorry I'm late. We should go."

"Go?" Piper echoed, her brow furrowing in confusion.

"To the shower," the woman clarified, smiling as Piper turned to her nieces, who were exchanging amused looks, and Phoebe shook her head slightly in silent disagreement. "Wasn't I supposed to pick you up?" she asked, sounding genuinely puzzled. "Did I mess up?" She fumbled with her day planner, scanning it frantically for answers.

Piper reached out reassuringly, gently halting her movements. "No, no, you didn't, Becca," she assured her with a small smile. "Yeah, there's just some... stuff going on here," she added, gesturing subtly behind her into the house.

Becca smiled warmly, trying to lighten the mood. "So, what else is new, huh?" she joked, her gaze flickering between Buffy, Dawn, Piper, and Phoebe. "You want some help with the party baskets?"

"No!" Buffy exclaimed, holding up a hand and stepping forward alongside Dawn, Piper, and Phoebe, forming a protective barrier.

"It's just... something came up, and Piper can't—" Phoebe started to explain, her voice tinged with regret.

Becca's face fell, disappointment evident in her tone. "Oh no! Don't tell me you're not going to come?" she pleaded, her eyes searching Piper's face. "Everyone's so looking forward to seeing you again."

Piper's smile softened at Becca's words. "Oh really? They are?" she asked tentatively, meeting Becca's nod with a slight nod of her own. "Well, then—then we can't disappoint them," she said nervously, aware of Phoebe's disapproving glare burning into her back.

"No, you can't," Buffy agreed, her own smile returning as she exchanged a grin with Becca.

Phoebe scowled at her niece's back, jabbing Buffy in the side to convey her disapproval without words.

"We'll pick up some stuff at the market on the way there," Piper informed Becca as she disappeared from sight to retrieve her purse.

Phoebe struggled to force a smile onto her face as she watched Piper prepare to leave with Becca. "Will you excuse us for one minute?" she asked abruptly, pushing past Buffy to the door. She closed it gently before turning sharply on her sister and nieces. "What—? Are you out of your mind? You can't still go," she insisted, her tone firm with determination.

"Yes, she can," Dawn countered swiftly, crossing her arms.

"We don't all need to be social outcasts, Aunt Phoebe," Buffy chimed in, her expression half teasing, half serious.

"But we have to scry for that demon," Phoebe argued, her gaze flickering between the three of them.

"Well, it doesn't take three sisters and two nieces to scry," Piper pointed out calmly. "You, Dawn, and Paige can handle that, while I go to the shower and Buffy goes to work."

Phoebe rounded on Buffy with a mix of frustration and concern. "You're going to work!" she exclaimed, her voice tinged with urgency.

Buffy rolled her eyes, accustomed to these discussions. "I'm only dropping off the payroll, Aunt Phoebe," she reassured her, her tone patient yet firm. "I'll be back in a half hour tops."

"Piper," Phoebe whined childishly, her tone pleading as she turned to her older sister.

"Call me when you find him," Piper replied calmly, her smile warm and understanding as she moved towards the door. She leaned in to kiss Buffy and Dawn on their cheeks affectionately. "Thank you," she said sweetly before stepping closer to the exit.

Phoebe, feeling desperate to change her sister's mind, grabbed Piper's arm firmly. "Piper!" she whined louder, her eyes pleading.

Piper sighed deeply, her patience wearing thin. "Phoebe!" she snapped; her tone sharper than intended. She took a breath, trying to regain composure. "Look, the bottom line is if I'm ever going to have kids, then I need to have a life first. Which means I need to be a human first and then a witch later," she reasoned firmly, trying to make her sister understand. "Okay? Got it? Good." With that, she nodded decisively, pushing past Phoebe and yanking the door open again. "Hi!" she greeted Becca. "Bye, Leo!" she called back over her shoulder.

"Bye!" Leo called back warmly, his voice fading slightly as Piper disappeared through the door.

Phoebe's glare intensified as she directed it at Buffy and Dawn. "You two!" she seethed, her finger pointing accusingly at her nieces in frustration.

Buffy swiftly intercepted Phoebe's finger, gently pulling it down. "Don't point that finger at me, Aunt Phoebe. Aunt Piper deserves a life," she insisted firmly, her tone resolute.

"Buffy's right," Dawn chimed in softly, stepping closer to Phoebe with a sympathetic expression. "Besides, you heard Aunt Piper. She needs this if she's even going to consider having a baby," she reminded her aunt gently.

"That's what you want, isn't it?" Buffy asked, her voice carrying a note of compassion as Phoebe nodded reluctantly, feeling defeated by their united front. "Well, then it's a win-win for both of you," Buffy continued optimistically, grabbing her car keys and folder in one swift motion. "I'll be back in a jif," she promised, leaning in to kiss Dawn on the forehead before calling out, "Bye, Aunt Paige!" to the living room.

"Bye!" Paige's voice rang out in response.

"Later, Uncle Leo! Cole!" Buffy added cheerfully, acknowledging them before she too disappeared out the door.

Joyce Summers' Gallery de Art

The morning sun filtered through the large windows of the art gallery, casting a warm glow over the polished wooden floors and the vibrant paintings that adorned the walls. Buffy stepped inside, the familiar scent of acrylics and varnish enveloping her as she made her way to the front desk.

She set down her keys and folder with a purposeful clink, her footsteps echoing softly in the spacious, airy room. The gallery was quiet at this hour, the artworks suspended in their frames seeming to watch her with silent curiosity.

Buffy moved with a practiced ease, flipping open her folder to review the payroll paperwork. As she checked each detail meticulously, she glanced up occasionally to appreciate the serene beauty of the space she had worked hard to create. Paintings of varying styles and sizes, from bold abstracts to delicate watercolors, formed a cohesive tapestry that spoke of her passion for art and creativity.

A soft chime from the front door signaled a customer's arrival, but Buffy remained focused on her task, determined to finish efficiently. Once satisfied with her work, she gathered the necessary envelopes and headed toward the office where the payroll records were kept.

Passing by one of her favorite pieces—a striking modern sculpture that seemed to defy gravity—Buffy paused briefly, her eyes lingering on its intricate form. It reminded her why she had invested so much of herself into this gallery, beyond just being a business—it was a sanctuary where artists could showcase their talent and where patrons could find inspiration.

With the payroll task completed, Buffy returned to the front desk, a small smile playing on her lips as she greeted her wife. "Faith," she said warmly, her voice carrying a hint of affection. "How has the morning been going?"

Faith looked up from the customer inquiry she had been handling, her expression brightening at the sight of Buffy. "Hey, babe," she replied, setting down the phone receiver. "It's been good. Just a few inquiries and a couple of sales already," she reported, her tone upbeat.

Buffy nodded, pleased to hear the gallery was off to a productive start. "That's great to hear," she said, moving closer to Faith and leaning in to give her a quick kiss on the cheek. "Any new pieces catch your eye?"

Faith chuckled softly, glancing around the gallery with a thoughtful expression. "Actually, yeah," she admitted, gesturing toward a large canvas that had been recently hung near the entrance. "I think this one might be my new favorite," she added with a grin.

Buffy followed Faith's gaze; her own eyes drawn to the large canvas that Faith had pointed out. She studied the artwork with genuine interest, marveling at the skillful brushstrokes and the way the colors seemed to dance across the canvas. "Oh, that's beautiful," she agreed softly, a smile touching her lips as she appreciated the artistry. "I can see why you like it."

Turning her attention back to Faith, Buffy's expression turned more serious as she squeezed Faith's hand affectionately. "Thanks for handling things this morning," she said sincerely, her gratitude evident in her tone.

Before letting go, Buffy leaned in slightly, her voice lowering slightly as she continued, "Before I leave, you should know... The Manor was being supernaturally bugged by a Chameleon demon posing as a lamp." She paused, watching Faith's reaction closely. "You might want to check the gallery inventory to make sure everything in here is actual art and not a demon in disguise."

Faith's eyebrows shot up in surprise at Buffy's revelation. "Seriously?" she asked, a mixture of concern and intrigue in her voice. She glanced around the gallery, her eyes narrowing slightly as she considered Buffy's words. "I'll definitely keep an eye out," she promised, her grip tightening briefly on Buffy's hand before releasing it.

P3

"Aww! How cute is this!" Wendy cooed, her eyes lighting up as she pulled out a fluffy white onesie from the beautifully wrapped box. "Oh Piper, this is adorable! Where did you get this?" she gushed excitedly, holding up the tiny garment for Piper to see.

"Um... a little shop in the Embarcadero," Piper answered with a warm smile, recalling the quaint boutique she had stumbled upon during a rare day off. "They have the cutest things."

Wendy smiled appreciatively as she carefully placed the gift back in its box, her gratitude evident in her expression. "Thank you so much for everything," she said sincerely, reaching out to hug Piper as best she could, given her burgeoning pregnant belly.

"Oh, you're welcome!" Piper replied warmly, returning the hug with genuine affection.

"We have so much to catch up on," Wendy pointed out, giving Piper a gentle but pointed look.

Piper nodded, feeling a pang of guilt for not keeping in touch better. "I know. We will," she promised earnestly, kissing Wendy on the cheek before stepping aside to make room for the next guest presenting their gift.

Taking a seat next to Becca, Piper sensed the weight of her friend's gaze on her. She turned to find Becca looking at her pointedly, a subtle narrowing of her eyes betraying her curiosity. "What?" Piper questioned, meeting Becca's gaze with a raised eyebrow.

Becca tilted her head slightly, her expression softening. "Nothing," she assured Piper with a warm smile. "It's just good to see you out and about again, that's all."

Piper returned the smile, a flicker of nostalgia in her eyes. "Yeah," she nodded thoughtfully, her voice tinged with a hint of melancholy. "After Prue died and Paige came into our lives, it took some time to adjust."

Becca nodded understandingly; her curiosity piqued. "Yeah, but I mean even before that, even before Payson and Dawn came looking for Prue," she continued, gently probing. "It's almost like the last three or four years, you just kind of... disappeared."

Piper's expression turned introspective, a sigh escaping her lips as she acknowledged Becca's observation. "Yeah," she agreed quietly, a touch of regret coloring her voice. The weight of those lost years weighed heavily on her heart, the memories of grief and the relentless demands of their magical responsibilities clouding her thoughts.

Their conversation was interrupted abruptly by the loud ringing of Piper's cell phone from inside her bag. She frowned slightly, digging through her purse until she retrieved her phone and glanced at the caller ID: Home.

"Oh no," Becca sighed sadly, her disappointment evident. "Don't tell me you have to go."

Piper hesitated, torn between duty and the rare chance to reconnect with an old friend. She looked up at Becca's crestfallen expression, her resolve wavering. "Uh..." she started, unsure of how to proceed. "No," she finally answered hesitantly, a flicker of uncertainty in her eyes. "It can wait."

Just as she made her decision, Leo quietly orbed in behind the group of women, his presence concealed from everyone but Piper's sight.

Leo made a 'come hither' motion with his finger, but Piper only responded with a narrowed glare, shaking her head minutely in defiance. Despite her resistance, Leo persisted, his expression coaxing until Piper finally caved with a resigned sigh.

Piper smiled apologetically at Becca, who watched curiously, concern flickering in her eyes. "I'll be right back," she promised softly before slipping away to talk with Leo in private. "What are you doing here!" she hissed as she reached Leo, her tone a mixture of irritation and urgency. "No guys allowed!"

"I tried calling your cell phone, but it went dead," Leo defended himself quickly, his voice low but urgent. "Dawn, Paige, and Phoebe think they've found the demon. Buffy and Faith are on their way home."

Piper's eyes widened in alarm, her initial annoyance giving way to concern. "Already? They did? Are you sure?" she pressed; her disappointment evident in her voice.

Leo nodded solemnly. "Yeah, you have to go now," he insisted, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Piper sighed deeply; frustration evident as she stomped her foot in a rare display of impatience. "How are we supposed to have kids if I can't even be at someone else's baby shower?" she exclaimed, gesturing wildly with her hands in exasperation.

"What?" Leo asked, looking genuinely confused and startled by Piper's outburst, his brow furrowing in confusion.

Piper sighed deeply, her shoulders slumping with disappointment. "Nothing," she muttered under her breath, shaking her head slightly. "Never mind. Okay, I'll meet you outside. The least I can do is say goodbye." She gestured with a resigned wave toward her friends, hoping they would understand her abrupt departure.

Leo nodded, opening his mouth as if to say something, but Piper had already turned away, her frustration evident in the way she stormed off toward her bag.

Snatching up her purse, Piper returned to Wendy's side, her expression apologetic as she sank back into the seat. "Wendy, I'm sorry," she apologized sincerely, her tone tinged with regret. "I've got to go. Something's come up."

Wendy's disappointment was palpable as she sighed heavily. "Now? But we haven't even had cake yet," she pouted, her disappointment clear in her voice. "You're going to miss the best part."

"I know," Piper muttered wryly, a hint of self-deprecation in her tone. "The story of my life." She offered Wendy a rueful smile, wishing she could stay longer but knowing duty called.

"I'll see you later," she promised, squeezing Wendy's hand briefly before rising from her seat. Piper glanced around the room, taking in the joyful atmosphere of the baby shower she was reluctantly leaving behind. With a heavy sigh, she made her way towards the exit.

Halliwell Manor

"So, we've got a spell to vanquish the Chameleon, but we're not going to use it? I don't get it." Paige's voice was tinged with frustration and confusion, her brow furrowed deeply. The three of them—Paige, Phoebe, and Leo—stood in a semi-circle behind the couch, casting curious glances towards the trio of Buffy, Faith, and Dawn who were leaned against the backrest, their bodies radiating a palpable tension. Cole, resolute and imposing, stood in front of them, his presence commanding attention. Piper, who had been pacing thoughtfully, sighed heavily, her breath a soft gust of exasperation. She finally settled on the back of the couch, her posture indicating both weariness and resolve, next to Buffy, who offered a comforting pat and a reassuring squeeze to her hand.

Phoebe's eyes flicked towards Piper, her own gaze reflecting a mix of concern and weariness. Buffy's gesture was gentle but firm, a silent message of solidarity amidst the chaos.

"Well, you vanquish him only if you have to," Leo's voice was steady, carrying an undertone of calm authority. "The goal here is to try and interrogate him, find out what the Source is planning." His tone was patient, but it underscored the gravity of their mission, as if every word carried the weight of their responsibility.

"Okay." Paige nodded slowly, though the confusion in her eyes remained. "But I'm thinking that this guy's not going to be so eager to spill his guts."

"No, he'll spill," Cole interjected, his voice firm with a blend of confidence and menace. He moved to stand next to Phoebe, his gaze hard and unwavering. "I'll see to that."

Phoebe's expression hardened; her frustration evident as she shook her head. "No, you can't come. He saw you with us," she reminded him, her tone laced with concern. "Which probably means that the Source has some bounty ready to attack you or capture you or something."

"So, what else is new?" Cole replied with a dismissive shrug, his nonchalance only serving to heighten the tension. His casual demeanor clashed with the gravity of their situation.

"It doesn't make it any less dangerous," Phoebe snapped, her voice sharp as she struggled to contain her anxiety.

"So…" Paige interjected loudly, her voice cutting through the rising tension. She walked over to Buffy and Piper, joining them in a united front. "The question still stands: how do we get a demon to stop and chat with us?" Her eyes were resolute, her stance firm as she faced the group, determined to find a solution amidst the turmoil.

"Well, Piper or Buffy can freeze him." Phoebe suggested, her voice carrying a note of hopeful pragmatism. Her gaze flickered between Piper and Buffy; the weight of her words evident in her expression. "And then unfreeze his head; they've both done that before." Phoebe's eyes sought confirmation from the two women. "Right?"

Buffy nodded; her demeanor calm yet assertive. "If for whatever reason Aunt Piper or I can't freeze him, then I can just make him… stay still." Her lips curled into a confident smirk, a glint of mischief in her eyes that spoke of her unyielding determination and the power she wielded.

Phoebe turned to Piper; her face etched with concern as she sought her sister's thoughts. "How do you feel about that?"

Piper sighed deeply, her shoulders slumping as she moved to the couch, her movements slow and deliberate. She eased herself onto the cushion, her gaze distant and contemplative. "I don't know."

"Why?" Cole's voice cut through the silence, his curiosity piqued as he stood at a distance, his expression unreadable. "You got a better idea?"

"Maybe..." Piper's voice trailed off as she settled into the couch, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her sleeve. "We could tell him to offer the Source… a deal instead."

Phoebe's frown deepened as she absorbed Piper's suggestion, her eyes darting between Buffy and Dawn, who were seated close by. She and her nieces moved to Piper's side, their movements coordinated and purposeful. Dawn and Buffy settled on either side of Piper, providing a silent show of solidarity, while Phoebe perched herself on the edge of the coffee table, her posture reflecting both attention and concern.

Faith, Leo, Cole, and Paige hovered behind the couch, their expressions a mix of curiosity and caution. The room seemed to hold its breath, the collective focus on Piper's proposed strategy.

"Deal?" Leo echoed; his voice tinged with skepticism. "What kind of a deal?"

"Well, something like," Piper began, her voice steadying as she laid out her idea. "He stops coming after us, and we stop going after him."

"What?" Faith's voice was sharp with disbelief as she cast a sidelong glance at Buffy, who remained resolutely silent, her eyes fixed on the floor.

Piper chose to ignore Faith's skepticism, her focus locked on the matter at hand. "Of course, that would mean we'd have to stop going after all of his demons too, which would be fine by me." Her voice took on a reflective tone, laced with a hint of relief. "It would put an end to all the constant attacks."

Paige's brow furrowed deeply as she leaned closer to Faith, Cole, and Leo, her eyes widening in disbelief. "Am I the only one who thinks she's bumped her head?" Her voice carried an edge of exasperation and concern, as if grappling with the sudden shift in their strategy.

Phoebe's gaze locked onto Piper's, her eyes wide with disbelief and worry. "You can't be serious, Piper."

"Actually, I've never been more serious in my life." Piper's counter was firm, her tone resolute. She cast a glance at Buffy and Dawn, who were now attentively listening. "Think about it." She continued, her voice gaining strength. "This could be an opportunity for us to get out of the demon-fighting business once and for all."

"Wait." Leo's voice cut through the tension as he crouched beside Piper, his expression a mixture of concern and confusion. "What, and just give up on your destiny?"

Piper shrugged lightly, turning her gaze towards him. "How do you know Paige, Phoebe, and I haven't already fulfilled ours? How do you know that Buffy didn't fulfill hers?" Her questions were met with Leo's silence. "I mean, God knows we've saved scores of innocents already. And Buffy sacrificed herself for her sister. Maybe that's enough. Maybe it's time for some other witches to take over and let us get on with our lives."

Phoebe shook her head vigorously, her panic evident as she turned to Buffy, who was staring intently at her hands, her expression one of deep contemplation. Phoebe knew that Buffy had long yearned for a semblance of normalcy, a life beyond the constant battles.

"Isn't it worth a try in exchange for what we might be getting?" Piper continued, her voice growing more impassioned. "No more putting things on hold. Vacations, friends, kids!"

Phoebe shook her head with a resolute expression, her voice barely above a whisper. "I can't give up now." She paused, her gaze searching for conviction as she spoke. "We are so close. We have to take out the Source if we can." Her tone softened, pleading as she continued, "And it's not just for us… then for Prue." Her words were a heartfelt tribute to their lost sister, a reminder of the sacrifices already made. Phoebe reached out and gently took Piper's hand, her fingers gripping with a mix of urgency and comfort. She turned to Buffy and Dawn, seeking their agreement. "Right?"

Buffy looked up slowly, her eyes clouded with uncertainty. "I uh..." Her voice faltered as she shifted her gaze from Phoebe to Faith, the weight of her thoughts visible in her expression. "I want that child Grandma Patty foretold for me and Faith. But I don't know if I want to bring her into a world where Faith and I could leave her alone." Her voice grew softer, tinged with a sorrowful introspection. "Slayers traditionally don't live as long as Faith and I have. If I wasn't a Slayer, if there was no magic... then maybe... there could be kids I..." Her words trailed off, leaving an unspoken depth hanging in the air. She noticed Phoebe and Dawn's stunned expressions, a reflection of their own struggle to grasp the magnitude of her revelation.

"What are you saying?" Dawn asked cautiously, her voice trembling slightly as she sought clarity from her sister.

Buffy remained silent; her eyes averted as she wrestled with her emotions.

"Buffy!" Dawn's call was sharp, her frustration evident.

Buffy flinched, her eyes snapping to meet her little sister's gaze. "Nothing. Never, never mind." She quickly redirected her focus, turning back to Piper. "Aunt Phoebe's right, Aunt Piper." Her voice carried a mechanical tone, almost as if she were reciting a mantra she didn't fully believe. "We can't quit. Sacrifices must be made for the greater good."

Piper sighed deeply, a look of resigned frustration crossing her face. She shook her head, the lines of tension evident in her features. "Fine! I just hope that we're all still standing at the end." With a decisive huff, Piper stormed off towards the stairs, her frustration and concern echoing in each step she took.

Streets of San Francisco

"Okay, now, something's not right," Piper said, her voice laced with concern as she stood in front of her car with her sisters, her nieces, and Faith. The tension in the air was palpable, each person's face reflecting the unease that had settled over them. "We've checked both alleys twice."

Phoebe sighed; the sound heavy with frustration. "Well, the Chameleon's gotta be here somewhere because the crystal never lies." Her eyes scanned the surroundings, betraying a hint of anxiety as she clung to the hope that the crystal's guidance was infallible.

Paige shivered, a visible chill running down her spine. "I don't know about you guys, but I'm getting a not-so-good feeling about this." Her voice was tinged with apprehension, her gaze darting nervously from shadow to shadow.

Buffy's eyes moved quickly over the area, her sharp instincts kicking in. "Alright, we'll check one more time, and then we'll call it quits." She gave clear instructions, her voice commanding yet reassuring. "Aunt Phoebe, you, Dawn, and Paige check that alley." She gestured to her left, the motion slicing through the darkening gloom. "Aunt Piper, Faith, and I will check that one." She pointed straight ahead, her resolve evident in her posture.

Phoebe frowned deeply, her worry evident as she questioned the plan. "Wait, split up? You think that's a good idea?"

Piper's response was steady, filled with the confidence borne from years of experience. "Phoebe, remember that Buffy has your levitation, Prue's telekinesis, and both of my powers," she said, her tone firm and reassuring. "And even though Faith's powers are still bound, she is still a Slayer, like her wife." Her words were meant to comfort, emphasizing their collective strength despite the danger.

Phoebe looked between her three sisters and nieces. She let out a soft chuckle, the tension easing slightly from her features. "Oh yeah."

Paige rolled her eyes with a mixture of exasperation and affection, throwing an arm around Phoebe's shoulders. "Come on, crazy sister!" she cried, her voice lightening with a touch of humor as she pulled Phoebe down the alley, Dawn trailing closely behind.

Buffy, Faith, and Piper shared a moment of light-hearted laughter as they prepared to head down their assigned alley, the sound of their amusement briefly cutting through the tension of their situation.

As they walked, Piper glanced over at Buffy with a thoughtful expression. "Ya know… it's okay… to want a life different from the one we've got, Buffy," she said softly, her voice carrying a gentle understanding.

Buffy sighed deeply, her shoulders slumping in resignation. "I'm sorry, Aunt Piper," she said, her voice tinged with sadness. "I know how much you want your normal life back, but…"

Piper nodded in acknowledgment, a hint of a chuckle escaping her lips as she tried to lighten the mood. "I know, I know. The Charmed Ones come first." She attempted to mimic Prue's voice, her imitation both affectionate and playful.

Buffy stopped in her tracks, her expression shifting to one of bemused irritation as she rounded on Piper. "Mom did not sound like that," she said, her tone mixing exasperation with amusement. Faith came to a halt beside her, her gaze moving between the two women.

Piper held up her hands in mock surrender, giggling as she resumed walking. "Admit it," she prodded with a teasing tone, "Admit that you want a normal life too, just like me."

Faith turned to Piper, her expression earnest as she caught the pleading note in Piper's voice. She stopped, placing a hand on Piper's shoulder. "Of course, we do, Piper. But wanting a family, freedom from your destiny, and us from ours doesn't make you or us bad people," she said firmly, picking up on the guilt in Piper's eyes.

Piper's smile was tinged with sadness, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "Thanks, Faith," she said quietly, her gratitude evident in her tone.

Faith returned the smile, her voice warm and supportive. "Any time, Piper."

Buffy took a deep breath, her gaze serious as she spoke. "Faith and I have talked about this, believe me, Aunt Piper. My major concern is, given the fact that Slayers don't usually live past their teens, and Faith and I have already beaten those odds—shoot, technically speaking, I've already died twice." She paused, her eyes reflecting a mix of longing and worry. "I want that little girl Grandma Patty foretold for me and Faith, I do. I just…"

"Buffy's afraid of what would happen if she and I die fighting a demon," Faith interjected gently, her voice carrying an understanding tone. The unspoken fear of leaving a child behind in a world full of peril hung heavily in the air, each word underscoring the gravity of their situation and the sacrifices they faced.

Piper's expression softened as she absorbed Faith's words, the weight of their shared fears settling over her like a heavy cloak. She glanced at Buffy, her gaze filled with empathy and a touch of sadness. "I get it, Buffy. I really do. It's hard to imagine bringing a child into this world when we're constantly facing danger. That's why I wanted to offer the Source a deal. But then you went and…"

"Aunt Piper, I sided with Aunt Phoebe because she's right," Buffy interrupted gently, her voice steady despite the undercurrent of emotion. Her eyes met Piper's with a determined resolve. "You can offer all the deals you want, but there's no guarantee the Source will honor them. He's manipulative and deceitful. Besides, I really, really want to avenge Mom's death."

Engrossed in their conversation, they remained oblivious to the partially invisible figure that silently approached them from behind, its presence barely perceptible in the dimly lit alley. The shadows danced around them, cloaking the figure in an eerie half-light, as it moved closer with deliberate stealth.

"Come on," Faith urged, her hand clasped around Buffy's with a firm grip. She guided her companion through the narrowing alleyway, their footsteps echoing softly against the cold, grimy walls. They reached a dead end, and Faith's frustration was palpable as she muttered, "Crap."

At that precise moment, the Source, still shrouded in his deceptive guise as the Chameleon demon, emerged from the shadows and rounded the corner, stepping into their line of sight with an air of sinister calm. The demon's form was an unsettling blend of shapes and colors, constantly shifting and blending with the environment.

Piper's breath caught in her throat as she gasped in alarm. Buffy and Faith spun around, their instincts kicking into high gear as they faced the threat head-on. Buffy's eyes locked onto the Source, her mind racing as she channeled her telekinetic powers. She thrust her arm forward with intense concentration, her power manifesting in a visible surge of energy.

The Source staggered back slightly from the force of the telekinetic push, his surprise momentarily disrupting his confident facade. Yet, as he steadied himself, a mocking laugh escaped his lips, dismissing Buffy's attempt with a chilling ease. His laugh echoed through the alley, a sound filled with malevolent amusement.

Buffy's eyes widened in dismay as the Source remained unfazed by her attack. "Oh! Oh no!" she exclaimed; her voice tinged with panic. She turned towards Piper, her expression a mix of alarm and urgency.

Piper's eyes widened in shock and determination as she quickly assessed the situation. She threw up her hands, her wrists flicking with practiced precision. Her powers surged outward, a desperate attempt to counteract the Source's taunting demeanor. The Source's form wavered momentarily under the pressure of Piper's power, but he simply rolled his neck with a dismissive smirk.

"Were you expecting me to freeze?" the Source drawled condescendingly, his voice dripping with derision. His gaze swept over them with a sense of superiority, clearly relishing the fear and frustration he had stirred.

Piper bit her lip, her eyes wide with sudden fear. "Uh-oh," she whispered, the gravity of their situation sinking in.

Faith narrowed her eyes, scrutinizing the Source with intense suspicion. "Something's not right," she muttered, her warrior instincts screaming that this confrontation was a trap.

"PHOEBE! PAIGE! DAWN!" Piper screamed with all her might, her voice echoing through the alley as she called for reinforcements.

The Source's lips curled into a malevolent smirk as he conjured a large energy ball, hurling it directly at Faith. In a split second, Buffy reacted, her telekinetic powers surging as she deflected the glowing projectile away from her wife. The ball of energy crashed into the ground, leaving a smoldering crater.

Anticipating her move, the Source immediately followed up with another energy ball. This time, Buffy couldn't react fast enough. The searing orb struck Faith squarely in the chest, sending her flying backward. She crashed into the far wall with a sickening thud, her body crumpling to the ground.

"FAITH!" Buffy's scream tore through the night as she spun around, her heart lurching at the sight of her fallen wife.

But there was no time for grief. The Source, his eyes gleaming with ruthless satisfaction, unleashed two more energy balls in quick succession. Buffy barely had a chance to react as the first struck her in the back, the impact driving her forward. The second hit Piper in the chest, sending her flying. Both women collided with the wall, landing in a heap beside Faith, their bodies limp and unmoving.

Moments later, Dawn, Phoebe, and Paige rounded the corner, their expressions shifting from determination to horror as they took in the scene. Piper lay unconscious, cradled in the arms of the Source, still disguised as the Chameleon demon. His free hand rested possessively on Buffy's shoulder, a grotesque display of his dominance.

The Source's eyes locked onto the newcomers, a wicked smirk playing on his lips as he met their horrified gazes. With a mocking salute, he and his captives vanished in a burst of flames, leaving behind only the acrid scent of burning ozone.

Dawn and Paige gasped, their faces pale with shock. Phoebe stood frozen, her eyes wide with disbelief. "Oh my god," Dawn whispered, her voice trembling with fear and desperation.

"Phoebe!" Paige shouted, her voice sharp and urgent as she grabbed Phoebe's arm tightly, pulling her out of her stunned silence. Panic flooded Paige's chest, intensifying when her eyes fell on Faith's unconscious and bleeding form sprawled against the wall. Blood trickled from a cut on Faith's forehead, creating a stark contrast against her pale skin, and the sight twisted Paige's stomach in knots.

"Faith!" Dawn cried out in desperation, her heart racing as she bolted toward her sister-in-law, each step feeling like a lifetime. The instinct to protect and care for her family surged within her, overriding any fear. She reached Faith's side and knelt down, her trembling hands hovering above Faith's still body, unsure of what to do but desperate to help.

Paige quickly followed Dawn, her heart pounding as she crouched beside them. "Come on, Faith, wake up!" she urged, panic lacing her voice. She gently shook Faith's shoulder, desperately searching for any sign of consciousness, while the blood continued to seep from the gash on Faith's head.

Phoebe remained frozen, her mind racing in a whirlpool of emotions. Her eyes flickered between the empty spot where the Source had taken Piper and Buffy and Faith's limp body, completely lost in the chaos that engulfed them. The reality of their defeat was crashing down on her, suffocating her with guilt and helplessness.

"Halliwell Hospital"

Buffy struggled to focus, her mind swimming in confusion as if she were emerging from a living dream. At first, everything around her was a blur of indistinct shapes and colors. Gradually, her vision cleared, and she saw a figure approaching. As he drew closer, she discerned a white coat and a name tag identifying him as a doctor. "Buffy?" he called softly. "Can you hear me?"

"Wha... what is this?" Buffy asked, her voice shaky. Fear and panic began to rise within her as she tried to make sense of her surroundings.

"Buffy, do you know where you are?" the doctor inquired gently.

Buffy glanced around the room, her eyes darting from one unfamiliar corner to another. It looked like her and Faith's room—or at least, it should have been—but everything was wrong. The furniture was missing, replaced by sterile, impersonal fixtures. "The Manor," she replied hesitantly.

The doctor placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, causing her to flinch. He stepped back, maintaining a calm demeanor as he continued. "No, Buffy, none of that is real. None of it. You're in Halliwell Hospital. You're ill. You've been with us six years now, do you remember?" His eyes bore into hers, watching her flicker between moments of clarity and confusion, her body inching away from him in shock. "It's gonna be okay. Look..." He gestured behind him. "Look who's here."

Buffy's gaze followed his motion, her heart pounding in her chest. Emerging from the shadows, she saw her parents, Joyce and Hank Summers, their faces etched with a mixture of hope and heartbreak. They approached her tentatively, their emotions raw and visible.

"Buffy?" Joyce's voice was a soft, tremulous whisper as she knelt down beside her daughter. Her eyes shimmered with unshed tears, her smile wavering. "Welcome home, honey."

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

"Piper?" A gentle voice called out, cutting through the haze of her disorientation. Piper stirred, her head throbbing as she turned towards the sound. She forced her eyes open, blinking rapidly to clear her blurred vision.

"Piper, are you okay?" The concern in the man's voice was evident. As her vision sharpened, she recognized the familiar face leaning over her—it was Leo.

"Ow!" Piper groaned, her hand instinctively moving to cradle her aching head. "My head hurts."

"I bet it does," Leo said, his voice filled with gentle concern. "You hit it pretty hard. Are you alright?"

Piper blinked a few more times, the world coming into focus. "I think so," she said slowly. "What happened?"

"What always happens when you have one of your episodes," Leo replied gently, his tone soothing but firm. "You threw yourself against a wall."

"Episodes?" Piper echoed, confusion knitting her brows. "I didn't throw myself—" She paused, taking in Leo's appearance: a crisp white shirt and tie under a white coat. "What are you wearing?"

Before Leo could answer, a voice from behind them interrupted. "Before you poison me, I know about the aliens!" The man's voice was frantic, filled with a manic energy. Piper turned her head towards the source of the outburst.

"Or the conspiracy, and I'm gonna tell the world!" the man continued, his eyes wild with paranoia. Piper's frown deepened as she took in the scene around her. The room was filled with numerous strangers, some wandering aimlessly, others huddled in corners or crowded around tables. They were all dressed similarly in white trousers and white long-sleeved tops, with blue t-shirts over them.

"It's okay," Leo assured her, his hand resting gently on her arm. "Those are just the other patients."

Piper frowned, confusion and a hint of anger clouding her features as she held out her hand. Leo grasped it firmly and helped her to her feet. "What the hell is going on?" she demanded, her voice edged with panic.

Leo smiled reassuringly, but his eyes held a hint of sadness. "It's alright, Piper. You're at the sanatorium," he said gently. "Your home."

Piper shook her head in disbelief as they walked through the stark, clinical corridors. "Where's all our furniture?" she asked, her voice growing increasingly high-pitched with panic. "Leo, what are all these people doing in our house?"

"Our house?" Leo chuckled softly, as if she had made a charming but naïve mistake. "Piper, Halliwell Hospital is hardly our house. All these other people live here too."

Piper's frown deepened, her mind racing to make sense of his words. "Halliwell Hospital?" she repeated, her voice trembling. "Is... is that some kind of a joke? What's wrong with you!"

"Please, calm down," Leo soothed, reaching out to her with a calming hand.

But Piper shook her head vehemently, pulling away from his touch. "No, Leo! I will not calm down! Something very strange is going on, something demonically strange." Her eyes darted around the room, searching for any familiar face or object that could anchor her to reality. "The demon must have cast a spell and changed the house and changed you."

Desperation fueled her actions as she turned towards the stairs, her voice rising with urgency. "PHOEBE! PAIGE!" she yelled, her voice echoing through the sterile halls. "BUFFY! DAWN! FAITH!" She called out each name with increasing desperation, hoping against hope for a response that would shatter this nightmarish illusion.

"Now, easy lady. Relax," an orderly instructed Piper as he wrapped his arms around her, trying to subdue her flailing limbs.

"Let go of me!" Piper cried out, thrashing desperately in his grip. "Leo! Don't just stand there!"

Leo's face was etched with concern as he watched, his hands twitching at his sides, but he remained rooted to the spot.

A tall man with greying hair approached them, his demeanor calm and authoritative. "Problems, Dr. Wyatt?" he asked, his voice smooth and professional.

Piper gasped, her movements stalling as she recognized the man. "That's him. That's the demon," she exclaimed, her eyes wide with fear and accusation.

"Demons again," the grey-haired "doctor" said sadly, shaking his head. "Piper, we've been through this thousands of times before. There are no demons." His tone was gentle but firm, as if he was trying to coax a frightened animal into calming down. "They're just figments of your imagination."

Piper narrowed her eyes at him, her mind racing. "Wanna bet?" she challenged; her voice filled with a defiant edge. She took a deep breath and began to chant, "Evil hiding in plain sight. I use this spell with all my might. To stop your changing form and shape. This vanquish seals your fate!"

She ended with a smirk, expecting the familiar rush of power and the telltale sign of the demon being vanquished. But nothing happened. The "doctor" remained standing, looking at her with a mixture of pity and concern.

"Doesn't really rhyme, does it?" the orderly restraining Piper pointed out from behind her, his voice tentative.

Piper turned her head sharply to glare at him. "Sorry," he apologized quickly, looking sheepish.

Piper shook her head, confusion clouding her features. "I, I don't understand. That spell should have worked."

The grey-haired "doctor" sighed, his expression weary but patient. "Piper, why do you insist on demonizing me?" he asked softly. "And every psychiatrist who has ever tried to help you?"

Piper growled, frustration and desperation bubbling up inside her. "Let me go!" she screamed, struggling with renewed vigor. "I gotta blow him up! I'm gonna blow you up!" Her thrashing intensified, her legs kicking out as she fought against the orderly's restraining hold.

The 'doctor' took a step back, his voice cool and authoritative. "Her violent impulses are returning. Straightjacket!" he called out to the orderlies.

"Piper," Dr. Wyatt—Leo—sighed, his expression a mixture of frustration and sorrow. "Why won't you let Dr. Alastar help you?" he asked, his voice pleading.

"I don't need his help," Piper retorted, her eyes flashing with determination. "I need your help. Get this guy off of me so I can use my powers."

"Piper, you don't have powers!" Dr. Wyatt corrected her firmly. "You're not a witch. You don't save innocents. You never did."

"What?" Piper asked, her voice weary and strained, the confusion intensifying her headache. As she tried to process Leo's words, she heard a commotion and turned to her left. Another orderly was roughly handling Paige, who was struggling and shouting.

"This isn't fair!" Paige cried loudly, her voice filled with desperation and anger. "This is my house too! I can do anything I want!" She kicked and screamed as they carried her past Piper, her eyes wide with fear. "You're hurting me!"

"Paige!" Piper called out, her thrashing becoming more frantic as she tried to reach her sister. "Paige! A demon took over the house. Orb the heck outta here!" she ordered sharply, her voice a mix of urgency and desperation.

"Take her to isolation so she doesn't hurt herself," Dr. Alastar instructed calmly, his demeanor unflappable despite the chaos around him.

Another orderly approached Piper, and together they began to force her arms into the straightjacket. She struggled, her heart racing, panic rising in her chest.

"No! No, wait a minute. Wait a minute!" Piper cried, her voice breaking with desperation. "You don't understand, wait. Leo!" she exclaimed, turning to him, her eyes pleading.

Leo sighed deeply, his face a mask of regret. "It's for your own good," he said quietly, trying to soothe her.

Piper shook her head frantically, her movements wild and erratic. "Wait a minute. Hey! Hey! You're making a big mistake." She looked desperately at the orderlies, her eyes wide with fear. "Listen to me for a second. He's a demon!"

Dr. Alastar stepped closer, his expression determined yet compassionate. "I'm not gonna give up on you, Piper," he said firmly. "We're going to free you of these delusions, I promise."

"Shut up!" Piper spat; her voice filled with venom. The orderlies lifted her off her feet, carrying her towards the isolation ward. "PRUE! PHOEBE! BUFFY! DAWN! FAITH!" she yelled, her voice echoing through the sterile hallways, mingling with Paige's earlier cries.

Dr. Alastar followed closely, his demeanor remaining calm and composed. "I can give you everything you want if only you'll let me help," he begged, his voice earnest. "This illness has already consumed more than three years of your life."

The Underworld

"Don't let it rob you of any more," the Source, still in the guise of the Chameleon demon, concluded ominously. His hands rested over the heads of Piper and Buffy, the Oracle standing by his side. Both women floated in the air on their backs, suspended in a state of unconscious vulnerability. "You're not a witch. You only think you are," he intoned, his voice dripping with malice. Suddenly, he faltered, his concentration breaking, and Piper and Buffy's bodies floated back down, settling on the cold, hard stone slab beneath them.

The Oracle's brow furrowed with concern. "What's the matter? What happened?" she asked, her eyes narrowing as she scrutinized the Source.

"It's just… taking more magic than I realized to project into their minds," the Source admitted, his tone tinged with frustration.

"More than you have, perhaps," the Oracle commented, her voice carrying a hint of smugness. The Source's eyes flashed dangerously, and she quickly amended her tone. "I only mean to caution you," she said, her voice more measured. "This is weakening you, making you vulnerable."

"But the bounty I seek will make me more powerful than ever," the Source reminded her, his gaze fixated on Piper's still form, his eyes alight with sinister anticipation.

"If you can get it," the Oracle muttered under her breath, skepticism lacing her words.

The Source turned to her, his eyes cold and calculating. "Nobody knows more about the Charmed Ones than I do," he said, his voice low and menacing. "I know how to break her spirit. I know her Achilles' heel." He paused, turning back to Piper, his expression one of twisted satisfaction. "In her deepest heart, she never wanted to be a witch. Just as her niece never wanted to be a Slayer. They both feel an obligation to their powers."

"Yes, but you said their powers won't work in our illusion," the Oracle reminded him, a note of caution in her voice.

The Source smiled, a cruel curve of his lips. "They won't," he agreed. "And once they learn that… painful lesson, they'll willingly give them up." His hand gently stroked Piper's hair, his touch a grotesque mockery of tenderness. "And with Piper's, her sisters' too. And with Buffy's, her sister's also."

Halliwell Manor

"Anything?" Paige questioned, walking up behind Leo, who was standing by an open conservatory window, the night air whispering through the room.

Phoebe stood at the small round table, crystal dangling over the map with the Book of Shadows next to her, her eyes furrowed in concentration.

Faith sat slumped at the table, leaning against Dawn, an ice-pack pressed to the back of her neck at the base of her skull, her expression weary but determined.

Leo sighed, opening his eyes and turning to face them all. "I can't sense Piper or Buffy anywhere," he revealed, his voice heavy with frustration.

Paige's face fell, her eyes widening with worry. "Does that mean that they're—"

"No!" Faith, Dawn, and Phoebe cut in together, their voices a unified plea of defiance.

"He wouldn't have taken them if he wanted them dead," Faith elaborated, her voice steady despite the pain. Paige nodded, understanding dawning as she took a seat on Faith's other side.

"You alright?" Dawn asked her sister-in-law with a grimace, her concern evident.

Faith shrugged, cringing as she removed the ice-pack and tossed it down on the table. "I'll live," she assured her with a small, brave smile. She looked up at Leo, determination hardening her gaze. "Screw my father finding me. If I am going to be any use in saving my wife or Piper, I need my powers unbound."

Leo's expression softened as he considered her words. "The Elders have been working on a special potion just in case you wanted them," he said slowly. "It would rewrite your DNA, removing your Darklighter DNA and replacing it with Whitelighter DNA. You would then have access to not only your witch powers but Whitelighter powers as well."

The room fell silent as the implications of Leo's words sank in. Faith's eyes flickered with a mix of hope and trepidation. "Whitelighter powers?" she repeated, her voice barely above a whisper.

Leo nodded. "Healing, orbing, sensing... the full range of abilities. It would make you stronger, more capable of protecting those you love."

Faith's gaze dropped to the table, her mind racing. The thought of gaining such powers was tempting, but the cost... the transformation... it was a lot to take in. She took a deep breath and looked up, her resolve hardening. "Do it," she said firmly. "If it means saving Buffy and Piper, I'll do whatever it takes."

"I will go get it then," Leo said, just as Cole shimmered in, covered in green goo from head to toe.

"Cole—Oh my god!" Phoebe gasped, her eyes widening in shock at the sight of her disheveled and grimy friend.

"I'm alright," Cole reassured her quickly, holding up his hands in a calming gesture to silence her. "I just found out that… Piper and Buffy are in the Underworld," he informed them, coming to a halt beside Phoebe. "I think the Source has them."

"The Source!" Phoebe exclaimed, her voice rising in alarm, and Paige's eyes bulged in disbelief.

Faith sat upright slowly, her expression oddly calm as if she had anticipated this news all along.

"Are—are you sure? How do you know?" Phoebe questioned him shakily, her voice trembling with a mix of fear and hope.

"From another Chameleon demon," Cole replied with a slow, self-satisfied smirk as he flicked goo off his hands with an air of nonchalance. "I kinda… squeezed it outta him."

"I knew it," Faith muttered, shaking her head with a mixture of frustration and resignation.

Dawn turned to Faith, her brow furrowing in confusion. "Knew what?"

Faith sighed deeply, her shoulders slumping as she looked away, lost in thought. "I knew there was something different about him," she explained, her voice laced with frustration. "Buffy and Piper's attacks had absolutely no effect on him, and..." She paused, her gaze hardening as she stared into space, "...and he kicked our asses. A pathetic little Chameleon demon couldn't do that! I mean, even without my powers, I could have taken down a Chameleon."

Phoebe chuckled quietly, a hint of mischief dancing in her eyes. "Let it go, Faith," she teased her niece by marriage with a smirk. Faith shot her a glare, clearly unamused. "We gotta find them," Phoebe continued, her tone turning serious as she reached for the Book of Shadows. "There's gotta be a spell in here somewhere."

As she lifted the heavy tome, a sudden gasp escaped her lips, her body going rigid as if she were caught in an invisible vice. Her eyes flew shut, and she remained eerily still. A premonition was overtaking her.

In her vision, Phoebe saw herself alongside Faith, Dawn, and Paige, huddled together with a sense of foreboding. Dawn clutched the Book of Shadows tightly to her chest, her face etched with worry. The Source loomed menacingly, his presence palpable and ominous. With a slow, deliberate motion, he waved one hand in front of them, and the Book of Shadows vanished in a swirl of blue and white orbs, reappearing in the Source's grasp. With a cruel smirk, he tossed the book aside as if it were a mere trinket. Phoebe, Paige, Dawn and Faith then erupted into a violent explosion, their forms disintegrating in a burst of magical energy.

The vision ended abruptly, leaving Phoebe gasping as she was pulled back to reality. Her body trembled slightly as she eased herself slowly into her seat, her gaze fixed blankly ahead. The weight of the vision hung heavily upon her, casting a pall over her usually vibrant demeanor.

"Phoebe?" Cole's voice pierced through the fog of her trance, concern lacing his tone. He approached her cautiously, but Phoebe remained silent, lost in the aftermath of the vision.

Paige turned to Dawn, her face tight with worry as she bit down on her lip, trying to suppress her own rising anxiety. Dawn's frown deepened, her eyes searching Phoebe's face for any sign of clarity.

"Dawn?" Phoebe's voice was faint, trembling as she finally broke the silence. She reached out and grasped Dawn's hand tightly, her grip desperate and unsteady. "I—I saw the Source stealing the book..." she continued, her voice cracking as she struggled to maintain composure. "...and killing us, with our powers."

Her eyes locked onto Dawn's, the gravity of her vision sinking in.

Paige's face clouded with deep concern, her brow furrowing as she struggled to grasp the enormity of the situation. "Our powers? How can he even get our powers?" she questioned, her voice tinged with panic and confusion.

Phoebe, still grappling with the unsettling vision, shook her head in reply. Her mind raced, but she was unable to offer any coherent explanations. The weight of the premonition hung over her, a dark cloud of dread.

"Maybe..." Cole began, his voice calm but laden with grim understanding. He perched on the arm of Phoebe's chair, his gaze fixed on the floor as he considered the possibility. "...he's figured out a way to extract them from Piper."

Faith, who had been quietly absorbing the information, nodded in agreement. Her eyes narrowed as she considered the implications. "That would explain why he's keeping Piper and Buffy alive," she added, glancing at Cole with a mix of apprehension and determination. Cole nodded back, his expression resolute.

Phoebe shook her head, her face etched with frustration and disbelief. "No, that's not—Piper can't give up her powers by herself, and Buffy doesn't even know how to do it," she pointed out sternly, her voice edged with frustration. The thought was almost too far-fetched for her to accept.

Leo, who had been standing nearby with a somber expression, spoke up with a sad note in his voice. "Well, Piper can use the relinquishing spell in the Book of Shadows, and she could share the spell with Buffy." His brow was creased with worry, his eyes reflecting a deep-seated anxiety.

Phoebe turned sharply towards him, her face a mask of disbelief. "We burned that spell three years ago. It doesn't exist anymore," she stated firmly, the frustration in her voice evident. The memory of that decision was still fresh, a painful reminder of their sacrifices.

"It does in Piper's mind," Leo replied, his gaze distant as if he were searching through the corridors of his own memory.

Phoebe scoffed; her frustration evident as she dragged the Book of Shadows closer to her. "That's crazy! She'd never say it. Piper would never willingly give up her powers, and she certainly wouldn't share that spell with Buffy," she insisted harshly, her voice laced with disbelief. The thought was almost too painful for her to accept.

"Even though Piper was kind of willing to this morning?" Paige reminded them all sheepishly, her eyes downcast as she nervously fiddled with her fingers.

Phoebe froze, the harshness of Paige's reminder cutting through her defiant stance. The reality of the situation began to sink in, and she struggled to reconcile the possibility with her own convictions.

"I'm just saying," Paige defended herself, meeting Phoebe's accusing gaze with a hint of apprehension. Her voice was steady but carried an underlying tremor of vulnerability.

Phoebe sighed heavily, her frustration mounting. "Look, I know what you're saying, but you don't understand. You don't know Piper like I do," she snapped, her tone sharp and defensive. Her heart ached at the thought of her sister being coerced into such a situation.

"Aunt Phoebe," Dawn said softly but firmly, stepping forward and placing a hand on her aunt's arm.

Phoebe turned to her niece with a mixture of surprise and exasperation. "Come on, Dawn! You can't seriously believe that Piper and Buffy would do that!"

Dawn set her lips in a firm line; her eyes unwavering as she held Phoebe's gaze. "Yes, I can… and I do, Aunt Phoebe, especially with Buffy. If the Source is manipulating them, it's entirely possible."

Phoebe gazed at Dawn, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. The weight of their dire situation, combined with the strain of their recent arguments, was becoming almost too much for her to bear. She sighed heavily, her breath escaping in a mournful whisper as she turned towards Paige. "I'm sorry," she said, her voice trembling with a mixture of regret and sorrow.

Paige, though clearly affected, tried to brush off the apology with a casual shrug. "Forget about it," she said, her tone attempting to convey nonchalance. But Phoebe could see the subtle strain in her younger sister's face, the hurt that lingered despite her attempt to downplay it.

"Maybe you and I should go down there, see if I can sense her," Leo suggested to Cole, his voice firm yet tinged with concern. His eyes were focused, revealing his urgency to find Piper and Buffy and ensure their safety.

Cole turned to Leo, his expression a blend of determination and skepticism. "Follow me," he said, nodding in agreement.

"After I go to the Elders really quick," Leo added, pausing as Cole raised an eyebrow in questioning. "I need to get a potion they're preparing for Faith. It's supposed to unbind her powers. Once I'm back, we can proceed."

Cole's gaze softened slightly, acknowledging the necessity of the Elders' potion. "Alright," he said, his tone signaling understanding. "We'll be ready."

"Okay," Phoebe said firmly, her voice cutting through the tension as she stood up, the Book of Shadows held tightly in her arms. "Faith, you wait for Leo to return. Once you've drunk the potion and have your powers back, come join us. Paige, Dawn, there are a bunch of summoning spells we can try." She glanced at her sister and niece, her expression a mixture of determination and urgency. "Come on," she called over her shoulder, making her way toward the stairs with purposeful strides.

Paige and Dawn rose from their seats almost in unison, the gravity of the situation evident in their movements. Paige's brow was furrowed in concentration, while Dawn's face was set in a mask of determination as they followed Phoebe up the stairs.

"Halliwell Hospital"

Buffy was taking it all in, her breath shallow, her pulse thrumming in her ears. The world around her felt thick, like she was wading through honey, caught between the pull of two realities. Her birth mom was alive. Alive. The word echoed in her mind, but it felt like a cruel trick, a mirage shimmering just out of reach.

Joyce stared at her daughter in awe, her eyes shining with unshed emotion. A single tear traced a slow, deliberate path down her cheek. "Oh… baby. Buffy…" Her voice wavered, soft yet weighted with longing.

Buffy blinked rapidly, as if trying to clear static from a broken TV screen, trying to make it stop—because it had to stop. Her chest tightened, her body stiff, caught in the paralyzing space between belief and denial.

"You're really here," Joyce said, her voice like a lullaby from a long-forgotten dream.

And yet… it felt real. The warmth in Joyce's voice, the way the light caught in her hair, the familiar scent of vanilla and lavender that wrapped around Buffy like a childhood memory. It was too perfect. Too cruelly perfect. Her throat tightened. The sheer possibility of having her mother beside her again, to hear her voice, to see her smile—Buffy felt herself tipping forward, drowning in the temptation of it.

"Mom…?" Buffy whispered, her voice fragile, barely holding its shape.

"She's lucid," the doctor's voice cut through, sharp and clinical, pulling Buffy out of the dreamlike haze. "Keep talking. The sound of your voice might help ground her—"

The words shattered the illusion like glass. The spell broke. Buffy's body jerked as her panic resurfaced, her breath coming in ragged gasps. Her eyes darted around the room, wild, searching, desperate for an anchor to reality. And then she saw him.

Hank.

His face was softer than she remembered, lined with regret, maybe even love, but the sight of him sent a jolt through her, a reminder of a life that had long since fractured.

"Sweetheart. We've missed you so much," Hank said gently, his voice pleading. "Honey? Can you hear me?"

Buffy's heart skipped a beat. Her parents. Together. The picture-perfect family she hadn't known since she was a little girl, before everything changed. Before death. Before destiny.

For one fragile second, she wavered.

But then—No.

Her head shook violently. This isn't real. It can't be. A sick, twisting feeling settled in her gut, warning her, screaming at her to wake up.

"Buffy?" Joyce's voice trembled with desperation, her hands reaching out as if she could pull her daughter back by sheer will alone. "Stay with us, please."

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

The sterile chill of the hospital basement seeped into Piper's bones, the dim light casting long, eerie shadows across the room. The cold metal restraints around her wrists bit into her skin as she struggled against them, frustration bubbling up inside her like a rising storm.

Across the room, Paige lay on a narrow cot, her posture slumped but her eyes burning with quiet resentment. The exhaustion in her voice was unmistakable. "I thought you said I wasn't good enough for your little coven," Paige muttered, her tone flat, almost hollow. The words carried a weight that made Piper's stomach churn.

Piper's head snapped toward her, her pulse quickening. "Paige, you are under a spell. You don't know what you're talking about," she insisted, her voice taut with frustration.

But Paige only sighed, shaking her head as if Piper's denial was nothing more than a tired excuse. "I tried to be your friend," she continued, her voice laced with hurt. "I even tried to play your stupid witchy games, but all you could do was complain about me and my stuff and how we didn't belong in your precious little family!"

Piper froze, her breath hitching. The accusation cut deep, slicing through her like a blade made of regret. "I never said that," she denied.

Paige pursed her lips, her expression unreadable, but the sadness in her eyes was unmistakable. "Humph! You didn't have to. It's obvious in the way you treat me," she murmured, looking down, her fingers twisting the hem of the scratchy hospital blanket. "You don't even like me."

Piper frowned, the words rattling inside her head like a foreign language. That's not true. That can't be true. She pushed herself up as much as her restraints would allow, her arms trembling with effort. She needed Paige to see her, to hear her. "Paige, that's ridiculous!" she cried, astonishment widening her eyes. "We're sisters!"

A silence heavier than stone settled between them.

"You don't have any sisters," a calm, clinical voice interjected from the other side of the caged door.

Piper's head snapped toward the source, her heart pounding.

Dr. Alastar stood just beyond the barrier, his hands clasped behind his back, his face a mask of cool detachment. "You're an only child, Piper. You know that," he continued, his voice smooth, coaxing, like he was speaking to a child who needed to be gently corrected.

The world tilted on its axis. The room felt smaller, the walls pressing in, suffocating. A sharp pain bloomed behind her eyes, but Piper refused to let it take root. She exhaled sharply, collapsing back onto the stiff mattress. "I'm gonna be so happy when I vanquish your sorry ass," she muttered darkly, her eyes narrowing.

Dr. Alastar stepped forward, stopping at the foot of her bed. "You use it to explain things you can't accept. But it's not real, Piper." His voice softened, patient, persistent.

Piper rolled her eyes, her irritation mounting. "Oh, for the love of God," she grumbled, her fingers curling into fists.

But the doctor wasn't finished. He moved to her bedside, leaning in ever so slightly, his voice lowering to a near whisper. "You could be free, Piper." His words slithered around her like chains. "You could be free if you'd just stop fighting it. Accept your reality."

Piper's glare turned ice-cold, her fury radiating like heat from her restrained body. "You let me out of these restraints, I'll show you some reality," she threatened, her voice dark, low, dangerous.

Dr. Alastar sighed, straightening as he backed away from the bed, disappointment flickering in his eyes. He turned and unlatched the cage door, stepping through and locking it behind him. "I'm afraid you'd just hurt yourself again," he said, his voice filled with a mock sympathy that made her skin crawl. "I'm truly sorry."

Without another word, he ascended the stairs, his footsteps growing fainter until he was gone.

The second he disappeared, Piper thrashed violently against the bed, the restraints digging deeper, but she didn't care. The panic surged through her veins, white-hot and desperate.

"LEO! LEO!" she screamed, her voice cracking, raw with desperation.

Paige groaned loudly, throwing her head back against the thin pillow. "Urgh! Would you stop with the 'Leo, Leo'?" she pleaded, rubbing her temples as if trying to physically push away the annoyance. "You're drivin' me crazier than I already am!" she exclaimed, her tired eyes widening with exasperation.

Piper rolled her eyes so hard it was a wonder they didn't pop out of her head. Frustration boiled over, and she let out a sharp, guttural scream. "AHHHH!"

As if on cue, Phoebe suddenly appeared outside the cage, her presence like a light cutting through the madness.

Piper's entire demeanor shifted in an instant. Her face lit up with relief, and a hopeful smile stretched across her lips. "Oh, thank God! Phoebe, untie me," she ordered urgently, straining against her restraints as if sheer willpower could break them.

But Phoebe didn't immediately spring into action. Instead, she bounced lightly on her heels, casually munching on a cookie, completely unfazed by the urgency in the room.

"Hurry! Hurry! Hurry!" Piper snapped, her patience wearing thinner by the second.

Phoebe jumped at the sudden outburst, her eyes going wide as if Piper had just shouted in her ear. "Alright, alright, stop obsessing," she said, waving a dismissive hand as she shuffled toward the door and unlocked it with an almost lazy ease, stepping inside.

Piper frowned, suspicion flickering in her eyes. "I'm not obsessing. What are you eating?"

"Chocolate chip cookie," Phoebe said cheerfully, flashing the half-eaten treat before taking another bite. Then her expression shifted, her nose wrinkling in mild disappointment. "Not your best," she informed Piper bluntly, smacking her lips before shrugging.

"Got milk?" Paige piped up from her bed, her voice suddenly light and playful. Before anyone could answer, she grinned. "Ooh! Don't think so!" And then, just like that, she burst into uncontrollable laughter, cackling like a child who had just heard the world's funniest joke.

Piper's eyes widened as she watched her youngest sister unravel, her stomach twisting with unease. But then, to her horror, Phoebe started laughing too—completely unbothered, as if this was all just some bizarre inside joke she had finally caught onto.

Shaking herself from her daze, Piper quickly redirected her focus. "Okay! Just get me out of these things," she ordered, her voice firm.

Still giggling, Phoebe crouched down and worked on the straps around Piper's ankles, her fingers fumbling slightly.

"We need to reverse this spell," Piper muttered under her breath, her mind already racing ahead to the next step.

Just as Phoebe finished freeing her, she suddenly gasped, a loud, exaggerated intake of air that made Piper stiffen.

Piper whipped her head toward her, heart pounding. "What is it? What did you see?" she demanded, gripping Phoebe's arm.

Phoebe blinked, then shrugged. "I saw the back of my eyelids. What do you think I saw?" she asked with a giggle, moving toward Paige to untie her next.

Piper exhaled, her frustration reaching a new level. "Oh no! Phoebe, not you too," she cried, sadness creeping into her voice as she glared between her two useless, giggling sisters.

As Phoebe finished untying Paige, Piper ran a hand through her hair and sighed deeply. "Alright! I don't know what the hell is going on, but we have to get to the Book of Shadows," she said firmly, her eyes darting between the two of them, searching for some sign of recognition.

She straightened, her gaze sharpening. "And since evil can't touch it, it's still gotta be in the attic, right?"

She reached out, grabbing Phoebe's hands, gripping them tightly as if trying to ground her sister in reality. "Right? Right?" she asked again, her eyes flicking between both sisters, her desperation barely masked by the forcefulness of her tone.

"Let's go!" she exclaimed, yanking on Phoebe and spinning toward the door.

Phoebe barely had time to react before she was being pulled forward. As they rushed out, she instinctively reached back and grabbed Paige, who had remained rooted in place, still swaying slightly from her laughing fit. With a firm tug, she dragged her along, and the three sisters hurried out of the basement, leaving the unsettling shadows behind.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Buffy sat slumped in the stiff, sterile chair, her body weighted down by exhaustion and something far heavier—uncertainty. Her fingers twitched against the cold metal armrests, but she hardly noticed. The dull hum of the fluorescent lights above seemed louder than the doctor's voice, a droning presence that blended into the background like white noise. Her head turned slightly, gaze slow and unfocused as she blinked, struggling to process what was being said. It was like trying to hold onto smoke.

Joyce and Hank sat beside her, their postures tense with anticipation, drinking in every word the doctor uttered. Buffy could feel their presence, their warmth, but it felt distant—like they were on the other side of a glass wall.

"…possibilities for a full recovery. But we have to proceed cautiously. If we're not careful—" the doctor said, his voice even and clinical.

"Wait. There's a chance Buffy might be like she was before all this happened?" Joyce asked, her voice breaking with the weight of fragile hope.

Doctor Alastar leaned forward slightly, his expression measured. "Mrs. Summers, you have to understand the severity of what's happened to your daughter," he said, carefully choosing his words. "For the last six years, she's been in an undifferentiated type of schizophrenia—"

"We know what her condition is," Hank cut in sharply, his jaw tightening. "That's not what we're asking."

A tense silence passed between the doctors before one of them continued, his hands folding neatly on the desk in front of him. "There's a lot about schizophrenia that we still don't understand," he admitted, his gaze flicking between them.

Joyce swallowed hard, her grip tightening on the arms of her chair. "What do you understand?" she asked, voice steadier now.

Doctor Alastar inhaled slowly, as if preparing to unravel something delicate. "Buffy's delusion is multi-layered," he explained.

"She believes she's some type of hero—" the other doctor interjected, nodding.

"The Slayer," Joyce clarified, her voice almost hollow.

"The Slayer, right," the doctor confirmed.

"But that's only one level. She's also created an intricate latticework to support her primary delusion," Doctor Alastar continued, his tone calm, almost fascinated. "In her mind, she's the central figure in a fantastic world beyond imagination. She's surrounded herself with friends and, recently, an adopted family—most with their own superpowers—who are as real to her as you or me. More so, unfortunately." He leaned back slightly. "Together, they face overblown, grand conflicts against an assortment of monsters, both imaginary and rooted in actual myth. Every time we think we're getting through to her, more fanciful enemies magically appear, and she—"

Buffy's dazed expression cracked. A flicker of something sharp, something real, jolted her like a sudden shock. Her breath hitched, and her fingers clenched the chair's arms.

"Enemies…" she murmured, her voice hoarse, her vision narrowing in on Doctor Alastar. The sterile lighting above seemed to sharpen the lines of his face, twisting his features into something sinister. Her mind raced, piecing together fragments of memory, of instinct. The walls felt like they were closing in, but a single, undeniable truth broke through the fog.

"You're the Chameleon demon," she whispered, her voice gaining strength as her body tensed. "You did this to me…"

Her legs wobbled as she pushed herself upright, the world tilting dangerously.

"Buffy—" Joyce's voice was laced with concern, but Buffy barely registered it.

Doctor Alastar moved with eerie patience, his hands pressing firmly against Buffy's shoulders, guiding her back down into the chair. His touch was gentle, almost paternal, but his presence felt suffocating.

Buffy's breath quickened. Her eyes darted around, unfocused and panicked, her reality fracturing around her like cracked glass.

"Shh. It's all right," Alastar soothed, his voice thick with practiced reassurance. "You're with your family."

Her head swam. This wasn't right. Nothing was right. She forced her vision to focus, trying to anchor herself.

"Dawn…?" she croaked, searching the room for her sister.

Hank's brow furrowed. "That's the sister, right?" he asked hesitantly.

The other doctor nodded, adjusting his glasses. "The magical 'key,'" he said, matter-of-factly. "Buffy inserted Dawn into her delusion, actually rewriting the entire history of it to accommodate her need for a familial bond."

He turned his gaze back to Buffy, studying her as though she were an intricate puzzle, one he was close to solving. "But that created inconsistencies, didn't it?" he pressed, his voice quieter now, almost coaxing. "Your sister. Your adopted family. Your friends. All the people you created in Sunnydale and the ones in San Francisco. They're not as comforting as they were, are they? They're coming apart."

Buffy's stomach twisted violently. She let out a soft moan, her head tilting away, as if physically rejecting his words. They clung to her anyway, seeping into her thoughts like ink in water.

"Buffy." Joyce's voice was gentle but firm, urging her to listen. "Listen to the doctor. What he's saying is important."

Buffy squeezed her eyes shut, but it didn't help. Her mind was a whirlpool, pulling her deeper and deeper into uncertainty. Her pulse pounded against her ribs, and the room felt smaller with every breath.

"Buffy, we want to help you get better," Doctor Alastar said, his voice smooth, persuasive. "And I think you want that too."

Buffy barely heard him. The walls seemed to shift, the edges of her vision distorting like a dream she couldn't wake from. The fear clawed at her insides, growing sharper, more insistent.