Charmed: Elizabeth Turner

by Brenna's Urbangirl Projects

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

29. Chapter 29: Enter the Demon Part 2

Chapter 29: Enter the Demon Part 2

June 6, 1998 – Saturday

Chinatown

Mason wrinkled his nose as he glanced around the dimly lit herb store, his hands stuffed in his pockets. The air was thick with the earthy, pungent scent of dried roots and spices, and jars of unfamiliar substances lined the walls like some kind of apothecary labyrinth. "Ah! What is this place?" he asked, his voice laced with a mix of curiosity and unease as he maneuvered carefully around a basket of dried lizards.

Paige/Phoebe barely looked up from the shelf she was scouring, her brow furrowed in concentration. "I just… got to find some powdered toadstool," she muttered distractedly, her eyes darting over the neatly labeled jars. She suddenly straightened with a triumphant grin, holding up a small pouch. "Ah-ha, here it is."

Mason followed her gaze, his grimace deepening as he eyed the bag in her hand. "Uh… okay, I gotta warn you," he began cautiously, stepping closer as though the powdered toadstool might explode at any moment. "I'm not into the whole, herbal scene," he added, his tone honest and tinged with skepticism.

"Well, neither is Paige… I don't think," Paige/Phoebe mused aloud, her words more to herself than to him.

Mason tilted his head, his brows knitting together in confusion. "You always talk about yourself in the third person like that?"

Paige/Phoebe froze for a split second before offering a tight smile, her mind racing. "It's kind of a… character flaw of mine," she said lightly, waving it off as though it were a quirky trait.

Mason raised an eyebrow but let it slide. His curiosity, however, wasn't so easily dismissed. "So… what's the toadstool for?" he asked, his tone now tinged with genuine intrigue.

Paige/Phoebe didn't hesitate, blurting out the first thing that came to mind. "It's an aphrodisiac."

Mason's eyes narrowed slightly, the disbelief evident on his face. "Really?" he asked, his voice dripping with skepticism as he trailed after her toward the counter. "My dad was right. He said you were… 'unique,' I believe is the word he used," he added with a faint smile.

Paige/Phoebe chuckled, setting the bag on the counter. "Oh yeah? What else did he say about me?" she asked, amusement dancing in her voice as she fished some money out of her purse.

"He said that if he doesn't hurry up and make you a social worker, you'll probably start your own agency," Mason said, his tone dead serious. "That, or end up in jail. He wasn't sure which."

Paige/Phoebe paused mid-motion, a small smirk tugging at her lips. She nodded slowly, sliding the bills across the counter. "Sounds like me at that age," she replied, her tone light but her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Mason's frown deepened as he tried to follow her train of thought. "You lost me again," he admitted, shaking his head.

Paige/Phoebe sighed, shifting her weight and placing a hand on her hip. "I'm not showing you a very good time, am I?" she said, more as an acknowledgment than a question.

Mason shrugged, his easygoing smile returning. "I don't know. We're in Chinatown, shopping for a sexual stimulant. I'm surrounded by chicken claws and goat brains. I haven't had this much fun in a long time," he quipped, his grin widening.

Paige/Phoebe couldn't help but laugh, her smile softening as she looked at him. "Come to think of it, neither have I. My boyfriend's not really big on the fun factor lately," she admitted without thinking.

Mason's expression shifted instantly, his eyes widening as he looked away awkwardly. "Your boyfriend?"

"Ex-boyfriend," Paige/Phoebe corrected herself quickly, her cheeks flushing slightly. The tension broke abruptly as a low rumble of thunder echoed from outside, followed by the sudden patter of rain. Her head snapped toward the window, her expression shifting to one of alarm. "Uh-oh, Yenlo," she muttered under her breath.

"What's that?" Mason asked, glancing toward the window, clearly puzzled. "Another aphrodisiac?"

Paige/Phoebe's demeanor shifted entirely as she grabbed the powdered toadstool and turned toward the door. "I… I gotta go," she said urgently, her voice tight. Before Mason could respond, she darted out into the storm, leaving him standing there, bewildered and surrounded by the strange and pungent chaos of the herb shop.

Halliwell Manor

Phoebe/Paige stood on the fourth step of the basement stairs, the dim lighting casting shadows across her face. She focused intently, her brows furrowing in concentration as she attempted to levitate. The air around her seemed thick with tension, but after a couple of seconds of earnest effort, she felt nothing more than a slight shift in her stance—no floating, no lift. Instead, she stumbled forward slightly, her feet barely catching the ground. She frowned at the failed attempt, annoyance flickering across her expression.

"What are you doin'?" Cole's voice cut through her thoughts, laced with curiosity and amusement. He shimmered into the room, appearing behind her without a sound, watching the scene unfold with a knowing smirk on his face.

Phoebe/Paige spun around quickly, startled by his sudden presence. She instinctively tried to cover her mistake with a bright, forced smile. "Uh… just… some exercises," she said, the words tumbling out awkwardly. She nodded with exaggerated confidence, trying to regain some composure. "Levitating exercises."

"So, you've decided to make training your priority?" Cole's voice held a hint of hope, his gaze locking with hers as he walked closer. His expression softened just a touch, perhaps sensing a change in the air.

"Yes," Phoebe/Paige responded immediately, her voice far too certain, almost as if trying to convince herself as much as him. "Absolutely."

Cole grinned, the edge of a challenge flickering in his eyes. "Good. We'll pick up where we left off." His tone was steady, yet there was an unmistakable glint of intensity in his gaze. He began to move toward her with purpose, each step measured as though he were preparing for something big.

"Great," Phoebe/Paige said, nodding with nervous energy. She was suddenly unsure of the path she was walking down. "Cool." Her voice wavered slightly, but she stood firm, unwilling to back down just yet.

Without missing a beat, Cole raised his hand, and two energy balls suddenly formed in the air with a crackling energy. He watched her carefully, his eyes narrowing slightly. "I'll throw a couple of low voltage energy balls at you," he said casually, "You just try to avoid them."

"Energy balls?" Phoebe/Paige repeated, raising an eyebrow in disbelief. She barely had time to finish her question before one of the energy balls slammed into her shoulder, sending a sharp jolt of pain through her. She yelped, the sting still fresh, when another energy ball hit her backside with a satisfying crack. "AH!" she exclaimed in surprise, jumping forward in a reflexive reaction, her body tensing.

"Okay, now that's just rude," she said, spinning to face him with an exaggerated scowl, hands on her hips. "I am not having fun!" Her voice, while annoyed, still held a touch of humor, though it was more from irritation than actual amusement.

Cole, unphased, shot back with a steely gaze. "Fighting the Source isn't supposed to be fun."

Phoebe/Paige's expression hardened in response. "That's it, pal!" she exclaimed, stepping closer, "You are not the Source and you do not treat your girlfriend this way." Her voice was firm, each word hitting like a hammer. "Murderers, demons, phone solicitors—maybe, but not your girlfriend. Do you think your sister treats Prue this way? No, she likely doesn't."

Cole's eyes darkened slightly, his frown deepening. "What's gotten into you?" he asked, confusion lining his features, the first signs of concern appearing in his voice.

"Paige," Phoebe/Paige replied flatly, her tone slipping out before she even realized it. She immediately froze, panic surging in her chest as she scrambled for an excuse. "I mean, I told Paige how you've been treating me, and she just thinks you're way outta line, buddy."

Cole's gaze sharpened, and he took a step closer, his focus laser-like. "Phoebe, you're the most important thing in my life," he said, his voice lower now, almost imploring. "If I don't push you hard, I'll lose you." His words were blunt, raw, as though he were laying bare the depth of his feelings.

Phoebe/Paige nodded slowly, her expression softening just slightly before she spoke with a new level of resolve. "Keep pushing her that way… and you'll push her right out the door," she replied firmly, the words carrying more weight than she expected.

Cole stopped dead in his tracks, a flicker of doubt crossing his face as he took in her words. The air between them shifted, thickening with unspoken tension. A memory surfaced, echoing in his mind: Buffy's warning, her words that had lingered longer than he'd anticipated. "What do you mean 'her'?" he asked, his voice laced with confusion.

Phoebe/Paige's heart skipped a beat, and panic spread through her chest like wildfire. She had slipped up. "I mean… me," she stammered, her mind scrambling for something to grasp onto. "I mean, I'm… I'm just really angry, you know?" she continued, trying to redirect the conversation, her voice faltering. "Because… well, you tore my jog bra," she added weakly, gesturing to the tear in the strap that she had conveniently noticed moments before.

Cole's eyes narrowed, but before he could respond, she swiftly turned on her heel. "And now I just… I have to go change," she said quickly, her words trailing off as she made a quick, almost panicked exit. With one last glance at him, she slipped out of the room, leaving behind the tension that hung like smoke in the air.

Piper stood in the middle of the attic, frustration visibly creeping into her features. Her fingers skimmed the pages of the ancient book, flipping through them with increasing irritation. "There is actually nothing in here on how to reach limbo," she sighed, her voice laced with a mix of disbelief and annoyance. She glanced over at Leo, who stood beside her, equally engrossed in the tome but equally unhelpful. The absence of any clear answers in the book was only adding to her growing sense of helplessness.

Her eyes shifted to Prue, who was standing by the attic window, her gaze unfocused and distant. The soft patter of rain against the glass seemed to mirror the subtle tension in the air, the thunder rolling in the distance echoing through the space. Piper narrowed her eyes, sensing the shift in Prue's demeanor, and frowned slightly. "Prue?" she called, her voice gently pulling her sister from her thoughts.

Prue startled slightly at the sound of her name, as if pulled from a trance. She turned to Piper, a faintly distracted look in her eyes, as though she had been lost in her own thoughts for longer than she realized. "Yeah?" she asked, her voice tentative but curious, clearly not expecting the shift in attention.

"You okay?" Piper asked, her tone softer now, as she took a few steps toward her sister. Her eyes studied Prue's expression closely, looking for any signs of distress. She had learned long ago that Prue's exterior, while strong and composed, often hid the underlying worries that simmered beneath. The occasional stormy look, the tense posture—Piper had learned to recognize when Prue was keeping something to herself.

Prue gave a small, almost imperceptible nod, but it didn't quite reach her eyes. "You know I hate thunderstorms," she murmured, her voice quiet, almost wistful, as if the weather had stirred something deeper inside her.

Piper couldn't help but smile fondly at her sister's confession. "Yeah, but you like the lightning, and you love watching the rain," she teased lightly, her voice tinged with affection. She let out a small laugh, shaking her head in mock disbelief. "Which is kind of weird if you ask me," she added, her smile growing.

Prue's lips twitched at the corners in a faint, knowing smile, but it didn't quite reach her eyes. Her arms were folded tightly across her chest, the gesture unconsciously protective, as if to shield herself from more than just the rain outside. Piper continued, her voice becoming more serious, though still laced with concern. "But you only watch the rain when you're worried about something," she said, her gaze softening as she studied her older sister's expression. "And don't say it's the rain itself," she added quickly, cutting off whatever excuse Prue was about to offer.

Prue's brow furrowed, and she turned her head slowly to look at Piper, a slight hint of discomfort crossing her features. She hated how easily Piper could read her, how well she understood the unspoken signs. It always unnerved her just a little, knowing that her younger sister had this uncanny ability to see through her tough exterior. "I…" Prue trailed off, her voice uncertain for the first time in a while. "Buffy's not home," she said simply, her words heavy with unvoiced worry.

Piper's expression shifted slightly, her concern growing. "So? She's at Joyce's, right?" Piper asked, her tone still light, but there was an edge of unease beneath it. She knew how much Prue cared about Buffy, and she knew how hard it could be when the youngest of them was out of sight for too long.

Prue nodded, her arms still tightly folded. "But she said she'd be home an hour ago, and she hasn't called," she explained, her voice tight as she gestured with the hand clutching her cell phone. Her grip on the phone was almost too tight, the knuckles pale from the tension. The look in her eyes wasn't one of anger, but of deep, gnawing anxiety.

Piper couldn't help but smile, though the smile was laced with gentle amusement. She stepped closer to Prue, wrapping her arm around her shoulders, trying to offer a sense of calm. "Stop," she instructed in a soft, but firm tone, pulling Prue into a one-armed embrace. "You're worrying about nothing. Buffy's one of the best. She's likely just spending time with her mom." Piper's voice held that comforting quality it always did, the same voice that had calmed both Prue and Phoebe countless times when they were children.

"But what if a bounty hunter attacks her while she's in Sunnydale?" Prue's voice trembled slightly, the rawness of her fear breaking through her usually composed demeanor.

Piper exhaled slowly, her expression softening even more as she squeezed Prue's shoulder. "She would take care of it, Prue," she said firmly, her confidence in Buffy unwavering. "And should she need us for any reason, she would call and have Leo orb one of us to her. She's okay, Prue."

Prue let out a small, self-deprecating laugh, a relieved breath escaping her lips. She leaned into Piper's embrace for just a moment longer before pulling back slightly to kiss her younger sister's cheek. "Thank you," she said, her smile sincere and grateful, though there was still a trace of lingering worry in her eyes.

Piper returned the smile, her heart swelling with love and protectiveness for her sisters. She pulled Prue into a quick, tight hug, holding her close for a few seconds longer than necessary. "It's what I'm here for," she whispered softly, as if to reinforce the promise that she would always be there for her, no matter what.

Leo smiled warmly at the small group, the bond between them comforting in its familiarity. But his gaze shifted, a flicker of concern crossing his face as he looked over at An'ling, who was gently cradling a small bowl of water in her hands. He glanced back at the others before returning his focus to her, the question rising instinctively. "Should you have that water up here?" he asked, the concern evident in his voice. "What if Yenlo uses that as a portal?"

An'ling's response was calm, though tinged with a soft reassurance. She met his gaze and offered him a small smile. "It's okay," she said, her tone steady. "The surface is too small for him to enter." Her eyes lingered on the water, as if sensing something deeper than the mere reflection of her face in the small, rippling surface.

Piper, ever watchful, turned her attention to Prue, who had been quietly focused on her phone, her fingers idly scrolling across the screen. Her quiet contemplation didn't escape Piper's notice, and with a swift movement, she reached over and pinched Prue's arm, a reminder to stay present. "Stop it," she whispered sharply, her voice laced with a mix of concern and irritation. As Prue narrowed her eyes, clearly not pleased, she reluctantly followed Piper's lead and walked toward An'ling.

An'ling's voice broke the growing tension as she explained, her words carrying a hint of nostalgia. "My father could use water as a looking glass into other worlds," she began, her tone distant but fond. She gave them a soft, melancholic smile as memories flickered through her mind. "Once, when I was young, he reached into a bowl of water and picked me a plum from the Garden of Eden." Her smile faltered slightly as the weight of that memory settled on her, but she held it together, not allowing herself to show too much vulnerability.

Prue, Piper, and Leo exchanged glances, their hearts aching for her as they watched her attempt to hold back the swell of emotion that threatened to overtake her. The sadness in her eyes was undeniable, even if she was doing her best to suppress it. The small, unspoken war between strength and grief played out on her face as she fought to maintain composure.

Leo, ever the empathetic one, asked gently, "Can you see your father now?" His voice was soft, as if he truly wanted to understand, to connect with her pain in a way that would bring her solace.

An'ling's smile evaporated almost immediately, her face tightening with the weight of her answer. "No," she said simply, the word carrying a finality that stung in the quiet room. She set the bowl of water back down on the table, her fingers brushing the surface one last time, as if hoping for some kind of answer, some sign. "I only see water," she continued, her voice tight and strained, the deep, unspoken grief leaking through. "I... I wish he were here. He'd know what to do." Her words hung in the air like a prayer unanswered, and she closed her eyes for a moment, as if seeking to block out the aching emptiness that threatened to overwhelm her.

Leo's brow furrowed with concern, his thoughts clearly turning inward as he offered a potential solution. "I better go check with the Elders," he said, his voice steady despite the sadness around them. "Maybe they can help us reach limbo." With a brief nod to the group, he orbed out, leaving an even deeper silence in his wake.

The absence of his presence seemed to deepen the sadness in the room. An'ling's voice broke the stillness with a quiet admission that seemed to echo her father's absence. "Sometimes I think Yenlo was right," she said softly, the words slipping out almost like a confession. "My father made the wrong choice. Yenlo was always the better student." Her voice wavered slightly, betraying the turmoil that lay just beneath the surface, the conflict that had been simmering inside her for so long.

Prue and Piper exchanged looks, the weight of her words pressing down on them, but they both shook their heads in unison, almost instinctively. "Oh, I doubt that," they said together, their voices firm with unwavering belief in An'ling's worth and her abilities. An'ling's lips twitched into a small, rueful smile at their response, but the sadness lingered in her eyes. She let out a soft, almost bitter laugh, acknowledging the irony of the situation. The laughter held no true mirth, only a kind of resigned acceptance of how far she had come from the woman her father had once known.

Piper, sensing the shift, gently pointed out, "You beat him in battle." Her voice was soft, trying to reassure An'ling, to remind her of her strength. "You showed him what you were capable of." The words were meant to be comforting, to reinforce that An'ling had done what many would consider impossible.

But An'ling wasn't done with her self-recrimination. She shook her head slowly, the weight of her thoughts heavy on her shoulders. "But I didn't kill him," she said, the anger clear in her voice, both directed at herself and Yenlo. "I made him stronger." Her voice grew harder, the frustration simmering beneath the surface. "Strong enough to remove my father's magic and wisdom from the world. I don't feel worthy of following in his footsteps." Her words fell into the room like stones, heavy and final. Her gaze remained fixed on the table, as though she could find the answers there, if only she looked hard enough.

Piper and Prue exchanged glances once more, the unspoken sorrow reflected in their eyes as they both realized how deeply An'ling was struggling. Without a word, Piper reached across the table, her hand finding An'ling's and giving it a reassuring squeeze. It was an unspoken gesture, a simple act of support that said everything they couldn't put into words.

Prue's expression softened with sympathy as she offered her own words of understanding. "It's hard," she said quietly, the sadness in her voice mirroring that in An'ling's.

Piper and An'ling both turned their eyes toward Prue, sensing that the weight of her words was about to unravel something deeper. The silence in the room felt heavy, as if the air itself was waiting for her to continue. Prue inhaled shakily, her chest rising and falling with the rawness of the emotion she was struggling to contain. She glanced down at the floor, collecting her thoughts before speaking again.

"Living your life feeling like a failure, trying so hard to be something you're not. To be someone you can never be and failing every damn time," Prue murmured, her voice breaking at the edges as she let her truth spill into the room. She lifted her head, meeting An'ling's eyes directly, her expression softening with understanding. "I understand," she said, the weight of those two words carrying more meaning than anyone could fully grasp.

An'ling's gaze softened, her eyes wide with something akin to surprise, or perhaps a quiet sense of relief, as if she'd been searching for someone who might truly understand her struggles. "We um…" Prue hesitated for a moment, her eyes flickering toward Piper, who had silently moved to stand closer, her presence a comforting anchor. "…we lost our mother when we were very young, and then our father left," Prue continued, her voice catching on the memories of a past she'd never quite reconciled with. Her throat tightened, but she pushed on, allowing herself to be vulnerable in front of An'ling. "Yeah, I know," she chuckled bitterly, an ironic smile tugging at the corners of her lips, "but I just kind of figured that, since they were both gone, I had to fill their shoes."

The words hung in the air, laden with the weight of responsibility that had been thrust upon her too soon. "Be the mommy and the daddy to my little sisters," Prue went on, her voice trembling slightly, "and then…" She let out a short, dry laugh, her shoulders sagging under the memory. "…when our Grams died, I felt like, I had to be her too." Her gaze shifted to Piper, seeking her sister's silent support. "And she was…" Her voice trailed off, her eyes glistening with unshed tears, the vulnerability in her gaze speaking volumes.

Piper stepped closer, offering a soft chuckle through her own building emotions. "She was Grams," she said with a shrug, her voice light but filled with affection for the woman they had all looked up to.

Prue nodded, the movement slow and resigned. "Yeah… even bigger shoes to fill."

The weight of Prue's words lingered in the air, and An'ling, though silently moved, seemed to absorb them, as though she was finding a quiet understanding in Prue's shared sorrow. Her chest rose with a slow breath, her thoughts momentarily distracted by the vulnerability before her. She gazed at Prue, her eyes searching for something—perhaps guidance, perhaps strength.

An'ling inhaled deeply, her voice almost hesitant as she asked, "Where did you find the strength?" Her words were wrapped in a quiet hope, an unspoken plea for insight.

Prue shook her head gently, her smile soft but laced with sadness. "I didn't," she admitted with a heaviness that only years of struggling could bring. "Still haven't," she added in a whisper, the truth of it a quiet echo between them. But despite the quiet admission, there was a subtle shift in her demeanor. "But I did realize that I was never gonna be as good as them, or as bad," she added quickly, the words falling out almost in deflection, as if lightening the moment just a bit.

An'ling's brow furrowed, her confusion evident, as she tried to make sense of what Prue was saying.

Prue exhaled a deep breath, as though bracing herself for the words she was about to share. She stood, her movements slow but deliberate, and walked around to An'ling's side, settling down next to her. An'ling turned toward her, her face expectant, her heart open to what Prue might offer next.

Prue smiled softly, her fingers brushing over An'ling's hand as she reached for it. The simple touch spoke volumes, offering comfort in the absence of grand gestures. "An'ling," she said, her voice low and steady, "you're never gonna be as good as your father." The words were gentle but firm, as if Prue had come to accept that truth herself long ago. An'ling's expression faltered, her face falling at the unexpected confession.

Piper, who had been observing from a distance, frowned, her confusion mirroring An'ling's. She didn't quite understand where this conversation was going, but her trust in her sister was absolute. Still, she couldn't help but feel a pang of concern for how An'ling might take the words.

Prue continued, her voice softening with every word. "Because you're not him," she said, looking An'ling directly in the eyes. "You're you. Which means, you can only be as good as you can be." The weight of her words seemed to settle into the space between them, each syllable an invitation for An'ling to find her own strength, independent of any legacy or expectation.

An'ling looked up at Prue, her eyes shimmering with emotion, the hint of unshed tears threatening to spill over. Her chest tightened with the realization that she didn't need to live up to her father's standards or his shadow; she only needed to find the strength within herself. "You can do this," Prue said gently, her voice filled with a quiet certainty. "I know you can." She smiled at An'ling, her warmth radiating from her like a beacon. "And so did your father."

An'ling nodded, her heart fluttering with a mixture of hope and grief. Prue had spoken to something inside her, something she'd nearly forgotten was there. "I know I've never met him," Prue added, her voice soft but filled with conviction, "but… he sounds like a pretty smart man, wise…" An'ling gave a small nod, her gaze distant but filled with the quiet remembrance of her father's strength.

Prue's voice softened further, "…Do you really think he would have passed Yenlo over for you, if he didn't truly believe that you were the best?"

The question hung in the air, and An'ling's brow furrowed as she considered it, the weight of the truth beginning to sink in. She was still the one her father had chosen, and maybe that was all she needed to move forward—his belief in her, no matter the mistakes or imperfections that haunted her.

"Your father believes in you, An'ling," Prue finished, her words a quiet but firm anchor. "Now you got to believe in yourself."

Piper smiled widely at her sister's words, her heart swelling with pride. She knew, without a doubt, that Prue always had the ability to break through to people, to make them see the light within themselves even when they couldn't. Piper couldn't help but grin, thinking to herself, That's why she's the big sister!

An'ling's face softened, her lips curving into a genuine smile as her eyes glistened with the first hint of hope she'd felt in a long time. "Thank you," she whispered, her voice barely above a breath, but filled with gratitude nonetheless.

Prue smiled back, her hand brushing a stray lock of hair from An'ling's face with the gentleness of a sister. "You're welcome," she said softly, her gaze warm and filled with love.

The moment, as brief as it was, held a quiet strength. But Piper broke the stillness, her voice coming as a welcome distraction. She wiped quickly at her eyes, a feigned nonchalance in her tone, though it was clear that the conversation had affected her as well. "Come on," she said, nudging them both gently. "With all this rain, we have to protect the house from Yenlo." Another loud rumble of thunder shook the house, and Prue jumped, startled by the deafening sound.

They left the attic together, each of them feeling the quiet change that had taken place in the room. None of them noticed the small puddle of rainwater by the window, nor did they see the sinister presence that lingered just beyond. Seconds later, Yenlo emerged from the water, his eyes scanning the now empty attic with a predatory smirk. His lips curled, and he stepped forward, the glimmer of his victory already beginning to form in his mind.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Paige/Phoebe hurried through the Manor's front door, the sound of her boots against the floor muffled by the storm raging outside. She clutched her purse tightly to her chest, a habit born from the constant need to protect her belongings from magical chaos. Her raincoat was pulled taut over her figure, the fabric clinging to her as she tried to shield herself from the downpour that seemed unrelenting. Her hat, too, was securely perched on her head, offering little defense against the soggy weather, but it had been a necessary choice in the frantic rush home. She quickly placed her purse down on the table near the door, the leather bag thunking as it made contact with the wood. As she rummaged through it, pulling out the bag of toadstool she'd just acquired, her focus remained solely on the task at hand. She was so caught up in the urgency of the moment that she was completely unaware of Yenlo creeping down the stairs to her left. His presence, dark and menacing, remained hidden in the shadows, his eyes fixed on her with an eerie silence. He stood still, watching her every movement as if studying prey.

Paige shook the water from her coat, the droplets scattering around her, and she absentmindedly tugged her hat down lower, shielding her face. As she turned to her right to continue with her search, she suddenly collided with something solid, and the sharp gasp she released cut through the stillness of the Manor like a knife. "AH! Cole, you scared me," she exclaimed, her voice a mix of surprise and frustration.

"Sorry," Cole's voice came quickly, full of genuine apology as he instinctively took a step back. "I didn't mean to."

Yenlo, who had been crouched low, shifted his stance even further, moving as quietly as possible to stay hidden. His gaze was fixed on the two of them, listening intently, waiting for the right moment to strike, but the distraction in front of him seemed to have taken hold. He could sense the tension in the air, and his eyes glinted with malice as he slowly advanced.

"With the rain outside and everyone on Yenlo alert…" Cole continued casually, leaning against the doorpost with a sense of ease, as if the threat of Yenlo wasn't looming just beyond them. His posture was relaxed, but his eyes were sharp, scanning the room, ever watchful.

"Yeah, Yenlo," Paige agreed, her voice carrying the weight of both urgency and a faint trace of irritation. "That's why I rushed home."

Yenlo's breath hitched in his throat as he pressed his palm down against the bleeding wound that had begun to spread across his side, his own movements slow and deliberate. He could feel the blood seeping between his fingers, but the pain was secondary now. The prospect of getting the upper hand was all that mattered. He held his ground, not yet revealing himself.

Cole pushed off the doorpost and walked toward Paige, his presence imposing as he closed the distance between them. "You're chilled," he remarked, his voice low, as if noticing her discomfort before she did. "Here. Put this on," he instructed, shrugging off his coat and holding it out toward her with an almost casual motion.

Paige/Phoebe took an instinctive step back, her gaze hardening as she avoided his offered coat. "Eh… you keep it," she said, trying to remain composed, but the slight edge in her tone was evident. Her eyes flickered briefly to the side, almost as if calculating her next move.

Cole, seemingly unaware of the shift in her demeanor, shrugged the coat back on with a nonchalant ease. "I'm sorry. Am I making you uncomfortable?" he asked, his voice taking on a more provocative edge. He moved closer, trapping her between his body and the wall, the pressure of his proximity increasing with each step.

Paige/Phoebe frowned, her face tightening as she placed a hand on her hip, her body stiffening under his approach. "No. Of course not," she replied tersely, her voice clipped, but the faint wariness in her eyes couldn't be ignored. She added quickly, "I was just wondering what Phoebe would think about this."

Cole blinked in confusion, the mention of Phoebe causing his brow to furrow slightly. "Phoebe?" he questioned, his tone laced with puzzlement.

Paige/Phoebe stood her ground, giving him a pointed, exasperated look, her arms crossed in a mixture of frustration and defiance. "Yeah, your girlfriend, Phoebe. Remember?" she shot back, her words laced with an undercurrent of annoyance. She didn't hide her irritation at his inability to grasp what was at stake.

Cole let out a quiet sigh, the sound barely audible, as he leaned back slightly, his posture shifting to something more casual, though his mind was clearly elsewhere. "Yeah, you see, the problem with Phoebe is, she's so obsessed with training, she's not interested in romance anymore," he said with a resigned shrug, his words spilling out with a touch of bitterness, as though he were coming to terms with a reality he hadn't wanted to face.

Meanwhile, Yenlo had seen his opportunity. With the two of them distracted by their conversation, he moved quickly and stealthily, gliding from the stairs and around the corner.

"That's not true!" Paige/Phoebe snapped, her voice sharp and filled with a sudden surge of indignation. "I mean, she—" She was cut off by the sound of Cole's voice, the interruption grating on her already frayed nerves.

"You on the other hand," Cole's voice was smooth, almost seductive, "strike me as being... full of passion, desire. I miss that." His words lingered in the air, charged with a mix of nostalgia and temptation, as though he were trying to reignite a fire that had long since been extinguished.

Paige/Phoebe stared at him, her eyes narrowing with disgust as the weight of his insinuations settled into her chest. Her lips curled in disdain, and without thinking, she pushed him away, the force of her motion causing his posture to falter. "I gotta go," she muttered, her voice tight with a mixture of anger and frustration.

But before she could escape, Cole's hand shot out, grabbing her with a surprising strength and pinning her to the wall. The next thing she knew, his lips were on hers, his kiss heated and relentless, leaving her no room to breathe, to think, to escape. Her body stiffened in resistance, the sensation almost overwhelming in its intensity, but her mind screamed in defiance.

At that precise moment, Phoebe/Paige came down the stairs, her eyes wide with shock and surprise as she witnessed the scene unfold before her. "HEY!" she yelled, her voice cracking with disbelief, unable to comprehend what was happening.

Paige/Phoebe, fueled by a rush of anger, grabbed Cole's hand that had moved to her waist, and with a swift movement, flipped him onto his back on the floor with a force that surprised even her. The air in the room seemed to crackle with tension as the dust from Cole's fall settled.

"How could you do this to me?" Paige/Phoebe demanded, her voice laced with hurt and raw anger, her chest rising and falling with the weight of the emotion flooding her. Her eyes bore into Cole, her disappointment and betrayal reflected in every syllable she spoke.

Cole, ever the charmer, raised his hands in mock surrender. "Oh, come on. I'm just trying to have a little fun, Phoebe," he said with an almost lazy grin, as though this entire exchange was a mere game to him. "Isn't that what you were complaining about me not doing?" he added smugly, his voice dripping with self-assurance, as if he were somehow the victim in all of this.

"Yeah, but I never meant for…" Paige/Phoebe trailed off as the weight of Cole's words hit her. She paused, her expression shifting from anger to realization as the slip-up became clear. "Did you just call me Phoebe?" she asked, her voice tight, the realization dawning like a heavy weight in her chest.

Cole, sensing his mistake, blinked in surprise but quickly recovered. "Would you rather I kissed her?" he asked, motioning toward Phoebe/Paige, who was still standing frozen in shock. He scrambled to his feet, brushing off his clothes with a quick shrug.

"No," Paige/Phoebe answered firmly, hands now resting on her hips, her stance resolute, but her mind racing. She could feel the confusion growing, her thoughts a whirlwind as the boundaries between the two of them blurred.

Phoebe/Paige, still stunned, blinked in disbelief. "You know?" she asked, her voice full of astonishment, her mind struggling to keep up with the sudden turn of events. "How do you know?"

Cole turned toward her, his face twisting into something akin to a smirk. "Well, for one thing, you suck at levitating," he said, matter-of-factly, his voice dripping with amusement. "And for another, you were one of two people that set me straight about the way I've been treating the real Phoebe," he continued, his words cutting through the tension like a knife. He paused, as though contemplating something deeper, before finishing, "You helped me see things differently."

Paige/Phoebe allowed herself a brief, surprised smile. "You did?" she asked, her voice softer now, touched with an unexpected sense of relief.

Phoebe/Paige gave a resigned shrug, her expression softening slightly as she spoke. "Someone had to," she murmured, the weight of the moment grounding her.

"Elizabeth also had some words with me as well," Cole said, his voice a little more subdued, though the smirk never quite left his face. "Now, I'm gonna go. Let you guys sort this out." He turned back to Paige/Phoebe, his expression shifting into something more calculated. "When… you are yourself again, give me a call," he said, his voice low, his tone laced with lingering promise. Before Paige/Phoebe could protest or even react, he reached out, pulling her against him with an almost predatory force, his hand lingering on her backside. The kiss was deep, but it was also a warning, a subtle mark of ownership.

Phoebe/Paige groaned audibly, a shudder of discomfort running through her as she watched, unable to pull her eyes away from the scene unfolding before her. She felt a wave of nausea, the emotions within her mixing into a potent cocktail of anger and disgust as Cole shimmered out of the Manor, leaving behind a tense silence.

Paige/Phoebe turned to Phoebe/Paige, her face a picture of frustration and determination. "Okay. We've got to get back into our own bodies," she said, her tone firm, as though the urgency of the situation had just hit her. "I am even getting confused," she admitted with a frown, her brow furrowing in deep concern.

"PIPER, LOOK OUT!" they heard An'ling shout from the kitchen, followed by a loud crash that shook the walls of the Manor.

"Oh no!" Paige/Phoebe gasped, panic flaring in her chest as she turned toward the source of the noise. Without another word, they both sprinted in the direction of the kitchen.

"PIPER!" Prue yelled, her voice laced with both fear and urgency as she saw her sister in danger. She sprinted toward her, her feet pounding against the kitchen floor, heart racing in her chest. Every instinct told her to protect Piper, to do whatever it took to keep her safe. But before she could reach her, Yenlo moved with deadly precision, his eyes gleaming with malice as he turned sharply toward Prue.

The blade of his sword flashed, a silver streak in the air, and before Prue could even react, it slashed across her stomach. The searing pain shot through her body as the sharp metal cut into her flesh, and the world around her seemed to tilt and spin uncontrollably. With a ragged scream, Prue was sent hurtling backward, her body crashing to the ground with a sickening thud. Her hand instinctively went to the wound, but her strength was already draining away, and the world around her grew dim.

"AH!" she screamed, the pain so intense that it consumed everything in her mind. She barely registered the sensation of her body hitting the floor, the roughness of the tiles biting into her skin as she lay there, breathless and bleeding.

Yenlo, unphased by the chaos he had caused, turned swiftly toward An'ling, his eyes narrowing as he took in the sight of the Dragonblade. The weapon glowed with an otherworldly green light, its aura pulsing as An'ling drew it from its sheath, preparing for the next round of combat. She tilted the blade from side to side, watching it shimmer in the light, her grip steady despite the pain and fear coursing through her. The blade was her father's gift, one of immense power—and she was ready to wield it.

Yenlo's smirk faltered for just a moment as recognition flickered in his eyes. "The Dragonblade," he muttered, his voice a mixture of admiration and disdain. Without warning, he lunged forward, their swords meeting with a brutal clash as sparks flew through the air. The fight resumed, the two warriors locked in a deadly dance as their blades flashed and clashed, each strike echoing with the weight of their rivalry.

Meanwhile, Paige and Phoebe rounded the corner and into the kitchen, their eyes immediately taking in the chaos before them. Both their older sisters were down, and An'ling was caught in a fierce swordfight with Yenlo. The sight of their wounded family members sent a wave of panic crashing over them, and Paige's heart skipped a beat.

"PHOEBE, STOP HIM!" Piper's voice rang out, desperation threading her words as she pointed toward Yenlo, who was now slashing at An'ling's forearm with a brutal precision. The attack caused An'ling to cry out in pain, her grip faltering on the Dragonblade as it fell to the floor with a metallic clang.

Phoebe, her thoughts racing, sprang into action, leaping into the air in an attempt to catch Yenlo off guard. Yenlo, ever the skilled combatant, anticipated the move, ducking and flipping backward, his body twisting with unnatural agility. But instead of delivering a powerful kick, Phoebe spun around in midair, her movements fluid and unpredictable.

Prue and Piper frowned in confusion, their eyes narrowing as they tried to make sense of the strange display. Paige/Phoebe groaned in frustration, unsure if this was part of the plan or if her sister was simply improvising. Yenlo, however, was already moving again. He smirked arrogantly as he flipped backward over Prue, disappearing in an instant, slipping into the sink water as if he were a shadow vanishing into the darkness.

Before anyone could react, Paige/Phoebe grabbed Phoebe/Paige and pulled her back down to the ground, attempting to regain control of the situation. They both hit the floor with a heavy thud, the sudden jolt causing Phoebe/Paige to let out an indignant groan as she tried to regain her balance.

"PRUE?" A familiar voice rang out from the hallway, echoing with concern. Buffy appeared in the kitchen doorway, her eyes searching frantically for her friend. Her gaze locked onto Prue, who was clinging weakly to the kitchen counter, one hand clutching her stomach as blood continued to pool on the floor beneath her.

Buffy's eyes widened in horror. "What the hell?" she demanded, her voice thick with shock and disbelief. She rushed toward Prue, her steps quick and determined, but her face betrayed her fear as she saw the blood staining her friend's clothes.

Prue, ever the trooper, managed a weak smile, despite the overwhelming pain coursing through her. "Hi, honey," she said sweetly, her voice barely above a whisper. "How was your day?" Her attempt at normalcy was a stark contrast to the chaotic scene unfolding around her. Buffy's eyes softened, her brow furrowing as she pressed her hands gently over Prue's, trying to stem the bleeding.

"AH!" Prue winced as Buffy applied pressure, the pain from her wound nearly unbearable.

"Cole and I were attacked by bounty hunters, but otherwise I had a nice visit with my mom," Buffy explained hurriedly, her voice filled with a mixture of worry and exhaustion. She placed a gentle kiss on the side of Prue's head, her hand still pressed firmly over the injury.

Phoebe and Paige, still processing the overwhelming situation, took in the sight of Prue's wound for the first time. The blood was starting to soak through her clothes, and the realization hit them hard, causing their eyes to widen in shock and concern. They hadn't noticed it until now—how could they have missed it?

Piper, still struggling with her own injuries, managed to push herself upright. Her legs trembled as she made her way over to An'ling, who was still reeling from the battle with Yenlo. "LEO!" Piper yelled, her voice cutting through the tension, sharp and demanding. Moments later, Leo appeared, his orbs of blue and white swirling around him as he materialized into the room.

"An'ling's hurt," Piper said, her voice frantic as she motioned toward her fallen friend. "Prue too." She nodded at her big sister, her worry clear in her eyes.

Leo's eyes widened in alarm as he saw Prue's condition. His face grew pale, and he rushed to her side without a second thought. But Prue, ever the reluctant patient, waved her hand dismissively, attempting to downplay the severity of her injury. "I'm fine," she said sarcastically, her voice dripping with irony. "It's just a scratch."

Buffy, unable to hold back her laughter, let out a short chuckle, despite the chaos. "Yeah, sure, a scratch," she said, her tone both fond and exasperated as she shook her head. "You're going to be fine, Prue. Just stop downplaying it."

Piper rounded on her two younger sisters, her eyes blazing with fury as she stalked into the room, her anger practically radiating off her. She was beyond pissed off, every muscle in her body tight with frustration. "You two," she growled, her finger pointing at them with such intensity it was as if she were about to strike them with her words alone. "Follow me!" she demanded, her voice sharp and unforgiving.

Paige and Phoebe froze in place, both of them startled by the sudden outburst. They exchanged a nervous glance, unsure of how to respond. The silence between them was thick, their minds racing to figure out what was going on. After a moment, they looked at Prue, seeking any hint of reassurance, but all they saw was the same fire of anger reflecting back at them. Prue was glaring at them, her face taut with frustration, and it was clear that she was not in the mood for any nonsense. Reluctantly, the two younger sisters followed Piper out of the room, their steps heavy with the weight of the situation.

"Alright!" Piper exclaimed, her voice barely contained as she stormed into the sunroom, her face flushed with fury. Her footsteps echoed across the floor, the sound of her rage palpable. "What the hell is going on?" she demanded, her words clipped and sharp, her temper only escalating as she glanced between them. It was more of a command than a question, her tone laced with both disbelief and irritation.

Paige, caught off guard by the confrontation, shifted uncomfortably under Piper's glare. "I was soaking some potion pots in the sink and… forgot to drain them," she answered sheepishly, the words tumbling out of her mouth in an attempt to defuse the tension. But it was clear that her half-hearted excuse wasn't what Piper was concerned about.

Piper's eyes narrowed in disbelief. She shook her head in exasperation, her breath coming in sharp bursts. "That is not what I mean," she snapped, her voice growing colder. "I smell something witchy. Phoebe, what is wrong with your powers?" she demanded, her eyes locking onto Phoebe, who remained unnervingly silent. The silence stretched, intensifying the weight of Piper's anger. "Phoebe?" she tried again, her voice sharper now, the frustration seeping through.

"Uh… I'm over here," Paige/Phoebe said sheepishly, raising a hand in the air. Her voice was light, almost apologetic, but it only served to confuse Piper more. She looked over at her youngest sister, her confusion deepening. Phoebe's presence seemed off, and she couldn't quite place why.

Piper frowned, her eyes shifting between the two. They both looked so similar yet so utterly different, and her mind was reeling from the sudden confusion. She took a step back, trying to process what was happening, but nothing seemed to add up. "Don't get mad at her," Phoebe/Paige jumped in, her voice defensive, though it only added more fuel to Piper's already burning temper. "This is all my fault," she admitted, trying to take the blame.

Paige/Phoebe immediately jumped into the fray, her words coming in quick succession. "Yeah, but I agreed to keep it secret," she said, glancing at Phoebe, who had clearly been a part of the decision to keep this whole mess under wraps.

"Yeah, but I was the one who messed up the potion," Phoebe/Paige retorted, her tone now tinged with regret. "I wasn't concentrating, I just guessed." She rubbed the back of her neck nervously, looking at both Piper and Prue with a mixture of guilt and helplessness.

Piper flicked her eyes between the two of them, utterly baffled. Her mind struggled to piece together the fragments of their conversation. Nothing made sense, and she was starting to feel like she might be losing her grip on reality. "Oh. My. God!" she finally gasped, her anger spiking again as the realization hit her like a ton of bricks. Her hand shot up in disbelief, almost as if she were about to smack some sense into the situation. Then came the flood of frustration and fury. "Oh my god, what?" she repeated, her voice tinged with disbelief. "This is insane!"

"What?" Prue asked, her voice calm but laced with concern as she walked toward them, her eyes searching their faces. There was a faint wince in her step, and her hands rested on her hips, her posture one of careful strength as she assessed the scene. Paige and Phoebe turned toward her, the tension between them palpable as they tried to make sense of the chaos.

"Oh, are you okay?" Paige/Phoebe asked, her voice filled with genuine concern, her eyes scanning Prue up and down, though the faint hint of worry wasn't enough to mask the confusion still clouding her mind.

"Yeah, that looked like it hurt," Phoebe/Paige added with a shudder, her brow furrowing as she eyed the injury Prue had sustained earlier. Despite their own strange predicament, Prue's injury still weighed heavily on their minds.

Prue narrowed her eyes, both in irritation and confusion, as she finally addressed Piper. She placed her hands on her hips, a defiant stance that only accentuated her growing frustration. "It did. I'm fine," she said, brushing off the concern. But then, her eyes flickered toward Piper as she added, "Oh my god, what?"

Piper shook her head, the overwhelming confusion now making her head spin. She pointed a finger at Phoebe and Paige, unable to hide the shock in her voice. "They—they switched bodies!" she exclaimed incredulously, her words practically tumbling out in disbelief as she stared at the two of them.

Prue froze in place, her body stiffening as she stared at Piper, her expression unreadable at first. Slowly, her head turned toward Phoebe and Paige, her eyes narrowing as her gaze locked on the pair. Both younger sisters immediately dropped their heads, their eyes finding sudden interest in their shoes as if they could escape Prue's growing wrath by refusing to meet her glare. The silence stretched for a moment, heavy and foreboding, before Prue turned her attention back to Piper, silently confirming what she had just heard. Her nostrils flared, and when she turned back to her sisters, her voice exploded with fury.

"You guys did WHAT?" Prue yelled, her voice reverberating through the room like a thunderclap. Phoebe and Paige both flinched at the sheer volume, jumping slightly as their older sister's anger washed over them. "Are you OUT of your MINDS?" Prue continued, her tone sharp enough to cut glass. Her piercing glare darted between the two of them, her frustration radiating from every fiber of her being. "With everything we've got going on, you pull a stunt like this? Seriously?"

Paige/Phoebe scrambled to defend herself, her voice small and unconvincing. "It was an accident," she said weakly, the words barely audible under the weight of Prue's anger.

"Accidents like that get people killed," Piper interjected sharply, her tone colder than usual. Her arms were crossed tightly over her chest, her face a picture of profound disappointment. Her eyes, filled with both anger and concern, flicked toward the kitchen as she continued. "We could've lost an innocent in there," she said, her voice rising slightly as she gestured toward the chaos that had just unfolded. Then her finger pointed directly at Prue, her expression darkening further. "Or a sister," she added emphatically, her voice breaking slightly with emotion. She wasn't just mad—she was scared.

Piper took a step closer, her voice now filled with a mix of anger and desperation. "What if it wasn't Yenlo?" she demanded, her voice rising as she laid bare her deepest fears. "What if it was the Source that broke in? You could've gotten us all killed!" Her words were laced with the weight of their reality, the constant danger they lived under, and the responsibility they bore as a family of witches. She gestured sharply, her frustration palpable, before falling silent, her chest rising and falling with deep breaths as she tried to calm herself.

"Okay!" Prue said loudly, her commanding voice cutting through the tension like a blade. She stepped forward, placing her hands firmly on Piper's shoulders, grounding her. Her expression was firm but calm, the steady authority of an older sister who had taken charge countless times before. Prue then shot her two younger sisters one of her signature looks—the kind that could stop them dead in their tracks. "I hope you…" she began, her voice low but laced with authority as she turned to Phoebe/Paige. "...realize now how important your potions study is and how irresponsible you were." Her words were measured, deliberate, designed to make the lesson sting.

Phoebe/Paige nodded quietly, her cheeks flushing red as she stared down at her shoes again, guilt clearly weighing heavily on her.

Prue turned her attention to Paige/Phoebe, her gaze sharp and unrelenting. "And you," she said, her voice dropping into a lower, more disappointed tone. "You should know better, Phoebe. Keeping secrets in this family is dangerous." Her eyes bored into her sister's, a mix of anger and sadness flashing in their depths. It was clear she wasn't just angry—she was hurt that such an important mistake had been kept from her.

Paige/Phoebe swallowed hard, her voice trembling slightly. "I'm sorry, Prue," she said softly, her head dipping as her own guilt mirrored her sister's.

"Yeah, me too," Phoebe/Paige added quickly, her voice tinged with regret as she glanced nervously at both Piper and Prue before lowering her gaze once again.

Prue sighed deeply, her shoulders sagging slightly as the weight of the moment settled over her. She closed her eyes for a moment, her hand running through her hair as she tried to rein in her frustration. When she opened them again, her voice was calm but heavy with resignation. "Now we've lost our shot at Yenlo," she said bitterly, her tone filled with regret. "We have no idea how to get to Limbo—" She stopped mid-sentence, her eyes widening slightly as a thought occurred to her. "Wait," she said suddenly, her voice sharper as she turned to Piper, a flicker of hope igniting in her expression.

Piper's posture shifted immediately, her face lighting up as she caught on. "OH!" she exclaimed, the sudden excitement in her voice breaking through the tension. She turned quickly to Phoebe/Paige, pointing at her with newfound urgency. "Do you remember what you put in that potion to switch bodies?" she asked, her words rapid and tinged with hope.

Phoebe/Paige nodded quickly, pointing at Paige/Phoebe. "Phoebe just picked up the ingredient we were missing," she answered, her voice filled with relief.

"Good," Prue replied firmly, her voice brimming with determination as she straightened up, her usual commanding energy returning. She gestured toward the kitchen, her eyes blazing with purpose. "Let's go." Without wasting another second, they all turned and headed back into the kitchen.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

"Alright, what else did you…?" Piper began, her voice laced with impatience as she looked directly at Paige/Phoebe. They were all gathered tightly around the bubbling pot in the kitchen, the air thick with the scent of herbs and magic. She turned toward Phoebe/Paige next, correcting herself with an eye roll. "I mean you. What else did you put in this?"

"Just the powdered toadstool," Phoebe/Paige replied quickly, stopping the steady motion of the wooden spoon she had been using to stir the potion. The liquid inside the pot shimmered ominously, steam rising in lazy tendrils that carried a faintly earthy scent.

Prue crossed her arms, her tone completely deadpan as she muttered, "Alright, soul sisters, back in your own bodies."

Buffy, standing beside her, snorted in amusement before chuckling outright. "Soul sisters. Nice one," she quipped, nudging Prue playfully.

Prue, however, wasn't in the mood for jokes. She elbowed Buffy hard in the ribs, making the Slayer grunt in protest. "Ow! Hey!" Buffy hissed, rubbing the sore spot with an exaggerated pout.

Phoebe/Paige barely stifled a giggle before nodding and lifting a pinch of the powdered toadstool between her fingers. Paige/Phoebe reached out, taking her hand in a firm grasp. Their eyes met briefly, a silent agreement passing between them. This had to work. Together, they chanted in unison, their voices carrying a determined cadence, "I wanna be me again."

As soon as the words left their lips, Phoebe/Paige released the powdered toadstool into the pot. The reaction was instantaneous. The potion flared up violently, a bright explosion of light bursting from the cauldron. A shockwave rippled outward, forcing both of them to stumble back as an unseen force yanked their souls from the borrowed bodies and shoved them back where they belonged.

Everyone held their breath, their gazes locked onto Phoebe and Paige, waiting for some sign that the switch had actually worked. A few tense moments passed before Phoebe let out a deep, relieved sigh and grinned. "Oh, it's nice to see you, Paige," she said happily, pressing a hand to her own chest as if to confirm she was really back.

"It's nice to be seen, Phoebe," Paige replied with an amused smile, but then her expression twisted in discomfort. She placed a hand on her stomach and grimaced. "God, what did you have for dinner?" she groaned, rubbing her belly like she had just eaten something really questionable.

Phoebe's grin widened mischievously. "Kung Pao Chicken. Sorry," she said, though her voice carried absolutely zero remorse.

"Okay, not to cut this reunion short," Piper interjected, clapping her hands together to bring the focus back to their mission. "But we don't have a lot of time."

"Right," Prue agreed with a decisive nod, her mind already shifting gears. She took a step forward, her voice taking on that authoritative edge that meant business. "So, the only person who knows how to enter Limbo is in Limbo himself. And since we can't get to An'ling's father down there…"

"…Our plan is to bring him up here," Piper finished for her, a satisfied smirk crossing her lips as she exchanged a knowing look with her older sister.

Prue returned the smirk. "Yes," she confirmed. "Or at least his soul."

Leo, who had been standing slightly off to the side, frowned deeply at that. His arms crossed over his chest as he processed what he had just heard. "Wait," he said slowly, his brows furrowing. "You want to swap souls with An'ling's father?" He looked between them, seeking confirmation, as if hoping he had misheard.

Piper turned to face her husband, her expression calm but firm. "He's the only one who knows how to get in," she reasoned.

"And besides," Prue added from the side, her voice unwavering, "it's the best way to surprise Yenlo." There was a fire in her eyes now, a certainty that this was their best shot.

Leo, however, shook his head, clearly uneasy with the plan. "It's too risky," he said firmly. "There's got to be another way." His gaze moved between them; his concern evident.

"Did the Elders have any other ideas?" Piper shot back at Leo, her arms crossed tightly over her chest. Her tone was sharp, her patience wearing thin as time slipped away from them.

Leo let out a slow breath, his shoulders sagging slightly. "No," he admitted regretfully, his voice tinged with frustration.

"Then there's not," Piper pointed out smugly, lifting her chin in defiance. Her expression was resolute—if there was no other way, then this was the plan they were sticking with.

Paige, who had been silently observing, frowned deeply. "Who's gonna do it?" she asked, her eyes flicking between Prue and Piper, trying to gauge who was going to volunteer for the dangerous task.

Prue and Piper exchanged a long, knowing look. There was no hesitation between them, just a silent understanding of what needed to be done. A subtle nod passed between them before Piper squared her shoulders.

"I'll do it," Piper said firmly, her voice unwavering as she made her decision.

Phoebe hesitated for a moment before slowly holding out the bowl of powdered toadstool to Piper. Her eyes flickered with concern, but she knew better than to try and argue against her sister's choice. Piper reached for the powder, inhaling deeply as she took some into her palm, mentally preparing herself for what was about to happen.

"Okay…" Piper exhaled nervously, steadying herself. "I want to be the Zen Master," she declared, her voice laced with both determination and apprehension.

She released the powdered toadstool into the potion. Instantly, the mixture reacted, sparking violently before erupting in a burst of golden light. The shockwave sent a ripple of energy through the room, and Piper instinctively took a step back, bracing herself as she felt the world shift around her. Her body tensed before suddenly relaxing, her breath catching as a foreign awareness settled over her.

Prue frowned, her eyes narrowing slightly in concern as she stepped forward. "You okay?" she asked warily, searching Piper's face for any sign of distress.

Piper/Zen Master turned sharply, her movements more deliberate and refined, her posture straighter than before. She regarded An'ling for a brief moment before shifting her gaze back to Prue. When she finally spoke, her voice carried a newfound serenity and wisdom.

"You have a very brave sister," Piper/Zen Master said with quiet admiration, her lips curving into a small, approving smile.

An'ling's breath hitched as her eyes widened with hope. "Father?" she asked tentatively, stepping forward as if she were afraid she might be wrong.

Piper/Zen Master turned to her, warmth flickering in her expression. "Yes, An'ling, I'm here," she confirmed gently. But the moment of reunion was fleeting—her eyes darkened with urgency as she pressed forward. "We don't have much time," she continued, her voice carrying the weight of responsibility. "Where is the Dragonblade?"

At that, An'ling visibly stiffened. Her gaze dropped to the floor, shame creeping into her features. "I used it to fight Yenlo, but he knocked it out of my hands," she admitted, her voice laced with regret. She quickly turned to Prue. "Prue, did you pick it up?"

Prue's expression changed instantly. Her eyes widened slightly as realization dawned, and she shook her head. "No," she admitted slowly before turning to her sisters. "Phoebe? Paige?"

Both sisters exchanged uncertain glances before shaking their heads in unison.

The room fell into a heavy silence, the weight of their collective oversight settling over them like a dense fog.

"Then, who has the Dragonblade?" Piper/Zen Master asked, her gaze sweeping across the room, her tone calm but urgent.

Limbo

Yenlo stared at the Zen Master/Piper with a predatory gleam in his eyes, casually twirling the Dragonblade in his hand as though it were a toy. His movements were sharp, deliberate, each twist of the blade emphasizing his control over the situation. "What happened, old man?" he sneered, his voice dripping with mockery.

The Zen Master/Piper stood as still as a mountain, forcing an air of calm despite the tension thickening the air. "I don't know," he replied, his voice measured but with just enough unease to sell his act. "What happened?"

Yenlo's dark eyes narrowed, scrutinizing him with suspicion. "I was telling you how I stole the Dragonblade from your useless daughter," he said with cruel satisfaction, his words slicing as sharply as the blade in his hand. His expression turned cold. "And then you blacked out."

"I did?" The Zen Master/Piper asked, feigning innocence, though his stiff posture betrayed the nerves creeping beneath his surface. He quickly added with an air of distracted agreement, "I mean, I did. If you say so."

Yenlo took a menacing step closer, lifting the glowing Dragonblade with a deliberate slowness, its green aura pulsing in time with his rising intensity. He pointed it directly at the Zen Master/Piper's throat, his tone shifting to one of cold suspicion. "Who are you?" he demanded, the blade glinting under the dim light as it hovered dangerously close.

The Zen Master/Piper swallowed hard, his gaze flicking to the blade before meeting Yenlo's piercing eyes. Summoning every ounce of the Zen Master's calm demeanor, he replied, "I… am one with the universe." His voice, though steady, carried an unmistakable note of uncertainty.

Yenlo let out a barking laugh, a cruel sound that echoed in the space around them. "You think you can fool me?" he spat, his lips curling into a sneer. He tilted his head, studying him as though dissecting his every word. "I was his disciple for twenty years," he hissed, his grip on the Dragonblade tightening.

Lowering the blade to his side, Yenlo's smirk twisted into something darker as he began pacing in a slow, predatory circle. "An'ling doesn't have the power to switch souls," he mused aloud, his voice taking on a calculating edge. His eyes glinted with the thrill of deduction, the pieces falling into place. "So… you must be one of the witches." He paused, the weight of his words hanging in the air like a thundercloud.

The Zen Master/Piper didn't respond, but the flicker of nervousness in his eyes didn't escape Yenlo's notice.

"Which means," Yenlo continued, his voice dripping with malicious delight, "that An'ling and her father will come to rescue you." He leaned in closer, his smirk widening as he tilted the Dragonblade ever so slightly, letting its sharp edge catch the light. "The question is: how are they gonna get your soul back… when I've got it?"

With a flourish, Yenlo held up the Dragonblade, its green glow intensifying, casting an eerie light that flickered ominously across his face. Without hesitation, he brought the blade toward the Zen Master/Piper's chest.

The Zen Master/Piper stiffened, his eyes widening as the Dragonblade's point pressed against his heart. He tried to step back, but Yenlo was relentless, a sadistic grin spreading across his face as the blade pulsed with power.

In a chilling moment, the blade's glow flared brighter, illuminating the room in an otherworldly green light. The energy surged forward, and a visible stream of ethereal light began to seep from the Zen Master/Piper's chest.

"No—" the Zen Master/Piper gasped, but his protest was cut short as the blade pulled the glowing tendrils of Piper's soul outward. Yenlo stood triumphant, watching with sickening satisfaction as the soul was sucked into the blade, its surface shimmering with unnatural energy.

Halliwell Manor

Phoebe burst into the attic, breathless from the rush, holding up the empty Dragonblade case as she, Paige, and Leo hurried over to where Prue, Buffy, An'ling, and Piper/Zen Master were huddled around the shimmering puddle on the floor. Her face was flushed with urgency, her eyes scanning the group. "This is all we could find," she announced, shaking the case slightly as if hoping the missing blade would somehow reappear.

A heavy silence followed. Piper/Zen Master's expression darkened, her lips pressing into a thin line. "Then Yenlo must have the Dragonblade," she concluded gravely, her voice laced with tension. Without hesitation, she raised her hand over the puddle, palm hovering over its glassy surface. Ripples spread outward in unnatural waves before shifting into an eerie reflection—one that didn't belong to any of them. The image of the Zen Master's real body flickered into view, lying still and lifeless.

Piper/Zen Master's voice was grim. "And he used it to capture your sister's soul."

Leo's eyes widened, his face pale as he took a step forward. "What does that mean?" he demanded, his voice tight with worry. "How do we get Piper back?"

An'ling answered without hesitation, her expression steeled with resolve. "We need to get the Dragonblade away from Yenlo."

"Okay," Phoebe said firmly, rolling back her shoulders as she adjusted her stance. "So what are we waiting for? Show us the way."

An'ling hesitated, her jaw tightening. "I should go alone," she insisted, her eyes darting between them. "Piper did this for me—to save my father's life. I won't let her sacrifice be for nothing."

"No," Prue and Paige said simultaneously, their voices layered with equal parts protectiveness and defiance.

Paige took a step closer, her eyes soft but unwavering. "She's our sister," she said simply, her voice carrying undeniable strength. "We all go." A small smile tugged at her lips, a silent promise that they wouldn't let Piper face this alone.

Prue crossed her arms, standing firmly beside her. "We are not staying here while our sister is in trouble," she declared, her tone brooking no argument. She turned toward Piper/Zen Master, gesturing at the puddle, her eyes expectant. "So… do your thing. Show us how to get to Limbo."

For a moment, Piper/Zen Master studied An'ling, something unreadable flickering across her features. "Is that what you were fighting to save?" she asked, her voice quieter, more contemplative. "My life?"

An'ling's face softened, her lips curving into a small but earnest smile. "Of course, Father," she said, reverence in her voice. "When we bring you back, their Whitelighter can heal your wound." She turned toward Leo, gesturing toward him with unshaken confidence. "He's a miracle worker. I've seen him."

Leo blinked in surprise at the sudden praise, shifting awkwardly under the weight of An'ling's faith. Prue, however, bit back a chuckle, arching a playful eyebrow at him. "You hear that, Leo?" she teased, a smirk playing on her lips. "You're a miracle worker."

Leo chuckled, shaking his head slightly. "Yeah, well, let's hope I don't have to perform any miracles today," he muttered.

Piper/Zen Master remained impassive, though there was a flicker of something—perhaps gratitude, perhaps regret—before she turned her attention back to Paige. "You are right," she admitted. "We should all go. But it is a different realm down there," she warned, her voice carrying the weight of experience. "With new rules. Yenlo has had time to learn and adjust."

Leo frowned. "Fine then, let's go," he said impatiently, shifting on his feet as though ready to jump into the puddle himself.

Prue, sensing his eagerness, placed a calming hand on his arm. "Leo," she said gently, her touch grounding him.

Piper/Zen Master turned to him next, her expression serious. "If you go, you risk being pulled into the vortex. Who would heal our injuries?"

Leo exhaled sharply, glancing at Phoebe as she handed him the empty case.

"She's—he's right, Leo," Phoebe corrected herself quickly, catching her mistake but not lingering on it. "You should stay here."

Prue tugged on Leo's arm lightly, meeting his eyes with unwavering determination. "Don't worry," she promised, her voice low but steady, every word filled with certainty. "We'll bring your wife back."

Leo clenched his jaw but nodded, clearly fighting the urge to argue.

Without another word, Piper/Zen Master turned, stepping forward. As soon as her foot touched the liquid surface of the puddle, it rippled outward in shimmering waves before swallowing her whole. She was gone.

An'ling followed, disappearing into the portal without hesitation.

Phoebe inhaled deeply, steadying herself. "Okay, here goes nothing," she murmured, before leaping into the puddle after them.

Paige, standing just behind, screwed up her eyes, took a deep breath, and pinched her nose as if diving into a pool. "Oh boy," she muttered before jumping in after Phoebe.

That left only Prue and Buffy.

Prue turned to Leo, her expression softer now, yet still carrying that edge of fierce determination. "I promise," she said again, giving his arm one final squeeze before stepping back.

Leo nodded, trusting her implicitly.

Then, Prue turned to Buffy. Their eyes met, an entire conversation passing between them in mere seconds. Without hesitation, Prue leaned in, capturing Buffy's lips in a deep, lingering kiss, full of all the things they didn't have time to say. When she pulled back, her gaze held steady, unwavering.

"I love you," she said, the words leaving no room for doubt.

Buffy, still holding onto Prue's hand, squeezed it tightly. "I love you, too," she whispered, but there was a fierceness beneath her tenderness.

Then, she smirked, lifting her chin. "That said, I'm going with you, and nothing you say can stop me."

Prue sighed, recognizing the stubborn fire in Buffy's eyes. She should have expected this. She gave Buffy a knowing look, then, without another word, pulled her along as they both stepped forward into the portal—together.

Limbo

As Piper/Zen Master, An'ling, Phoebe, and Paige stepped out of the swirling mist and into the vast, desolate expanse of Limbo, an eerie silence pressed in around them. The landscape stretched out in all directions, a colorless void where time seemed suspended. Wisps of gray smoke curled at their feet, dissolving into nothing as they moved. The air was thick, heavy with an unnatural stillness that made every sound feel amplified.

Phoebe instinctively reached back, gripping Paige's hand tightly, grounding herself in the surreal environment. A frown crossed her face as she glanced around. "Hey," she began, her brow furrowing, "Where's—?"

But the question died in her throat as two more figures emerged from the mist. Prue stepped forward, her presence solid and unwavering, Buffy right beside her.

Phoebe blinked. "Oh. Hi."

Prue chuckled at her sister's bemusement, warmth flickering across her face. "Hi," she returned, smiling slightly before her gaze shifted past Phoebe. The moment of levity was gone in an instant as she spotted the Zen Master's unconscious body lying motionless on the cold ground. Her expression hardened with concern.

"Piper," she called, urgency tightening her voice. She didn't hesitate, stepping forward, pulling Buffy with her toward the fallen form of the Zen Master—where her sister's soul was still trapped.

Paige, scanning their surroundings, turned sharply toward the prone body. "The Dragonblade," she said, eyes darting across the ground. "Where is it?" She searched frantically, her fingers twitching at her sides.

"Quiet," Piper/Zen Master commanded softly but firmly, her tone laced with warning. A chill ran through the air, a subtle but unmistakable shift—something was coming.

A sharp gasp tore from Phoebe's lips, her body tensing. "LOOK OUT!" she cried, her voice urgent.

In an instant, Yenlo materialized from the shadows, his sword raised high, its blade gleaming even in the dim, soulless realm. He moved with supernatural speed, a specter of violence, his dark eyes burning with cruel satisfaction.

Piper/Zen Master barely managed to twist out of the way, dropping low just as An'ling intercepted the attack. Their swords clashed, a sharp metallic ring cutting through the thick air. An'ling countered swiftly, striking out with a powerful kick that sent Yenlo stumbling back—but only for a moment. He recovered with unnatural grace, his movements honed from years of discipline.

With a sudden burst of speed, Yenlo struck out, knocking An'ling off her feet. She hit the ground hard, breath leaving her in a sharp gasp. Before anyone could react, he flipped effortlessly through the air, bringing his blade down in a vicious arc. It struck Piper/Zen Master square in the chest, the force of the blow sending her hurtling backward—straight toward the swirling, gaping maw of the vortex.

"FATHER!" An'ling's desperate scream cut through the chaos as Piper/Zen Master barely managed to grip the jagged edge of the opening, her fingers digging into the crumbling ground to keep from being sucked into the abyss.

Yenlo smirked, his expression twisted with arrogance. "Welcome to my turf," he taunted, his voice smooth, almost amused.

An'ling scrambled to her feet, racing toward Piper/Zen Master, her hands wrapping around his—her father's—wrists, pulling with all her strength to keep him from being lost to the void.

A sudden movement caught Paige's eye, and her breath hitched. "Look!" she shouted, pointing at Yenlo's belt. Nestled against the dark fabric was the Dragonblade, its gleaming edge just barely visible.

As if responding to her realization, a flicker of blue and white light swirled around the sword, and before Yenlo could react, the weapon vanished in a cascade of shimmering orbs. A heartbeat later, it materialized in Paige's outstretched hand. She gasped, staring at it in astonishment.

"I didn't even call for it," she whispered, wide-eyed. "It just happened."

Buffy, standing at the ready, barely took her eyes off Yenlo as her body rippled, shifting before their eyes. "Our powers are expanded here," she murmured tensely, her voice taking on a low, almost otherworldly timbre as she fully assumed her Nyxara form.

Phoebe, steadying herself, turned toward Paige. "You get Piper's soul out of the Dragonblade," she instructed, her voice firm, leaving no room for argument. "I'm gonna keep Yenlo busy."

Prue, sensing her sister's reckless determination, immediately reached out, her grip firm as she caught Phoebe's wrist. "Phoebe," she said warningly, her voice edged with concern.

Phoebe turned to her; her gaze unwavering. "I can do this, Prue," she said, confidence radiating from her in waves. "Please just trust me?" she asked, her voice softer now, but no less insistent.

Prue's eyes flickered with uncertainty, but only for a second. She stole a glance at An'ling, then back at Yenlo, calculating. Finally, she exhaled, giving a sharp nod. "Okay," she relented. "I'm gonna help An'ling." She turned her attention to Nyxara, her gaze sharp. "You need to protect Paige, Buffy," she ordered, her voice steady and commanding.

Nyxara's glowing eyes met Prue's, her expression unwavering, her promise absolute. "With my life," she vowed.

Prue held her gaze a moment longer before nodding in satisfaction. Then, without wasting another second, she turned and bolted toward An'ling.

At the same time, Phoebe took a deep breath and sprinted straight toward Yenlo, determination burning in her veins.

Yenlo's lips twisted into a smirk as he cocked his head, eyes glinting with mockery. "Oh, it's you," he sneered, his tone dripping with false fear. "Black belt Barbie."

Phoebe's jaw tightened, her eyes flashing with fury. "You're gonna be sorry you said that," she warned, her voice brimming with confidence.

Without another word, she propelled herself into the air, her body lifting effortlessly with newfound power. With a fierce battle cry, she struck Yenlo square in the chest, the force of the blow sending him soaring backward like a ragdoll. His grip faltered, and the Dragonblade tumbled from his hands, clattering onto the barren ground below. Phoebe hovered midair, watching him with a triumphant smirk before rising even higher, positioning herself to meet him head-on.

Meanwhile, Paige stared down at the blade in her hands, her fingers tightening around the hilt as uncertainty filled her expression. The weapon pulsed with eerie energy, vibrating slightly in her grip. She swallowed hard, turning toward Nyxara with wide eyes. "Buffy, what do I do?" she asked urgently, her voice barely concealing her panic.

Nyxara's gaze flickered between Phoebe and Yenlo, her demonic senses tuned into the unfolding fight. "Uh… Use your powers," she said, her voice sharp yet steady. "Orb her soul."

Paige inhaled deeply, closing her eyes as she concentrated. A swirl of shimmering blue and white light engulfed the blade, and with a soft gasp, she felt something intangible shift. When she opened her palm, a glowing mass of energy rested there—Piper's soul. It pulsed gently, like a heartbeat.

"Now what?" Paige asked, her voice hushed with awe and apprehension.

"Put it back in the body," Nyxara replied, her attention still half-fixed on the battle.

Nearby, Prue gritted her teeth as she tightened her grip on Piper/Zen Master's wrist, her muscles straining as she fought against the force of the vortex trying to pull him in. "Come on, damn it!" she growled, her fingers digging in, refusing to let go.

Paige wasted no time. Clutching the glowing essence, she closed her eyes again and focused, channeling her magic. The soul shimmered, then shot forward in a brilliant arc, sinking into the Zen Master's chest with a soft burst of light.

The Zen Master/Piper gasped sharply, his eyes snapping open as his chest heaved. He blinked, looking around as awareness settled in. "Thanks for the lift," he quipped, his voice slightly breathless. Then, his gaze dropped to the ropes binding him. "Untie me."

Nyxara and Paige immediately got to work, fingers flying as they loosened the restraints. The moment the ropes fell away, Piper/Zen Master sat up, rubbing his wrists as he surveyed the battlefield.

Nearby, Phoebe grunted as she took a brutal hit to the side of her face, the force sending her head snapping to the side. Paige flinched. "We gotta do something!" she exclaimed.

"What?" Piper/Zen Master asked, his voice tinged with frustration. "I don't have power in this body."

Nyxara didn't hesitate. Summoning her energy, she conjured a crackling violet orb in her palm. With a fierce snarl, she hurled it toward Yenlo just as he lunged at Phoebe. The energy ball struck him mid-motion, sending him flying off the rock and crashing onto the ground in a heap.

Phoebe groaned, rolling over onto her hands and knees, but a smile crept onto her lips. Nyxara had bought her just enough time to catch her breath. She winced, touching her throbbing cheek but forced herself upright, watching as Yenlo scrambled to his feet.

Yenlo's eyes blazed with fury as he advanced, blade glinting dangerously in his grip.

Phoebe's face contorted in sudden pain, and she clutched her ankle, gasping dramatically. "Ow! My ankle!" she cried, her voice laced with just the right amount of desperation. "I think it's twisted! I need a time-out!"

Yenlo stopped short, cocking an eyebrow. Then, he chuckled darkly. "A time-out?" he echoed, amusement creeping into his voice. "This'll be easier than I thought."

He raised his sword, ready to strike.

Phoebe's expression hardened. "For me too," she muttered under her breath. Then, she inhaled sharply and shouted, "PAIGE!"

Paige, understanding immediately, tightened her grip on the Dragonblade. A shimmer of blue light enveloped the weapon—reappearing in Phoebe's waiting hands.

Yenlo lunged at Phoebe in a final act of desperation, his eyes wild with fury, but she was faster. She stepped into his attack, twisting her body with precision, and drove the Dragonblade deep into his shoulder. The blade pulsed with supernatural energy, glowing as it drained the very essence from Yenlo's body. His breath hitched in his throat, his movements growing sluggish as his soul was sucked from him.

With a final, agonized gasp, Yenlo collapsed to the ground beside her, his limbs twitching before falling still. The air around them shifted instantly. The swirling vortex, once a menacing, all-consuming force, vanished in an instant, leaving behind only eerie silence.

Prue let out an explosive breath, throwing her hands in the air. "Well, thank God for that!" she declared loudly, her voice filled with relief. "It's about freaking time."

Nyxara, Phoebe, and Paige exchanged amused glances before chuckling, their laughter breaking the heavy tension.

As the last echoes of their laughter faded, the world around them underwent a breathtaking transformation. The bleak, desolate landscape dissolved, the darkness lifting like a dissipating fog. Colors bled into their surroundings, vibrant and rich—lush greenery sprouted beneath their feet, delicate blossoms unfurling as golden sunlight spilled across them. A tranquil breeze carried the soft scent of jasmine and cherry blossoms, the air now alive with warmth and serenity.

Nyxara's form shimmered, the dark rippling energy of her demonic visage retreating as she shifted back into Buffy. She stretched her fingers, rolling her shoulders as if shaking off the remnants of her transformation.

Paige turned in a slow circle, her eyes wide with wonder. "Oh my God, it's so beautiful," she murmured, reaching out to brush the petals of a nearby flower as if ensuring they were real. She came to a stop beside Phoebe and Prue. "What just happened?"

Piper stepped forward, her boots making soft impressions in the newly-formed grass. "Beats the hell out of me," she said as she descended the small slope toward them.

Phoebe hesitated for a moment, her head tilting slightly in uncertainty. "Piper?" she asked cautiously, her gaze searching.

"Hello." Piper's voice was warm, familiar.

The tension broke. Relief washed over them, and they all smiled, their bond unspoken but tangible in the moment.

As they gathered, An'ling stepped forward, her eyes locking onto her father. The Zen Master stood tall, his presence calm and composed despite the battle they had just endured. "The natural order of things has been restored," he explained, his voice carrying a sense of peace. "Including our souls." He met Piper's gaze directly, addressing her with quiet wisdom.

"But how?" Piper asked, her brow furrowed in confusion.

The Zen Master gestured around them, sweeping his hand to indicate the transformed landscape. "This place was a reflection of Yenlo's fears," he explained, his voice soft but certain. "A man afraid of crossing over. He twisted this realm into a prison of his own making. But in truth, this is a peaceful place—welcoming, not forsaken."

An'ling's eyes shimmered with emotion as she reached for her father's hand. "We need to get you home and heal your wound," she said, her voice laced with urgency.

The Zen Master shook his head gently. "No," he said with quiet finality. "I was mortally wounded. It is my time to die—to be reborn."

An'ling's grip on his hand tightened. "Their Whitelighter can heal," she insisted, desperation creeping into her voice.

Again, he shook his head. "An'ling…" His voice was gentle, but firm. "You know better than to cling to the physical world—the way you clung to my hand at the bridge."

Tears welled in An'ling's eyes. Her fingers curled around his hand as she fought against the inevitable. "But you're my father," she whispered, her voice breaking.

"And I am no greater or lesser than anyone facing death," he said simply, his wisdom unwavering. "That is the only lesson that keeps you from becoming a true Zen Master."

His gaze shifted toward the sisters and the half-demon Slayer, his expression turning somber as he addressed them. "Death is a part of life. A transition. A rebirth. Something that your young friends here have had to learn far too many times." His voice carried the weight of understanding as he looked at Prue, Piper, Phoebe, Paige, and Buffy.

Buffy let out a dry chuckle, shaking her head. "Young? I wish I was young," she said wryly. "I'm over a hundred years old."

Before the Zen Master could respond, Phoebe inhaled deeply and stepped forward, holding out the Dragonblade with both hands. He met her gaze with a kind smile before taking it from her. "Yes," he murmured, his fingers running along the hilt. "Yenlo must be reborn too. It is the natural order of things."

With that, he turned and began walking toward the opening that led beyond the realm.

An'ling's breath hitched, and before he could move too far, she reached out, grabbing his arm. "I love you," she said, her voice thick with emotion.

The Zen Master placed his hand over hers, his eyes filled with a father's unconditional love. "And I will always love you, An'ling." His words were a promise, a truth that would transcend time. Then, with steady steps, he continued forward.

Prue watched the exchange, feeling the weight of An'ling's grief. Without a word, she moved closer, standing beside her—not touching, but close enough that their hands brushed together in silent support. As An'ling's father disappeared into the light, An'ling closed her eyes, her fingers tightening around Prue's.

Paige wiped at her damp eyes before clearing her throat. "Does anyone know how to leave here?" she asked, her voice small but laced with hope.

An'ling exhaled slowly before turning back to the group, a serene smile gracing her lips. "I think I know how to do it now," she said with newfound certainty. She held out her hand to Piper, who took it without hesitation. Phoebe clasped Piper's other hand, reaching for Paige next. Prue met Paige's gaze with a gentle smile before extending her own hand, and Buffy, standing beside her, grasped both hers and An'ling's.

An'ling took one last glance at the peaceful landscape, then looked heavenward.

As a soft wind swirled around them, lifting their hair and brushing their skin like a whisper of unseen energy, they began to rise. Together, hand in hand, they ascended into the light.

June 7, 1998 – Sunday

Golden Gate Park

As Paige and Piper strolled along the sun-dappled path leading to the small picnic area, the late afternoon air was filled with the scent of blooming flowers and fresh-cut grass. A light breeze rustled through the trees, carrying the gentle hum of bees flitting from blossom to blossom. The warm glow of the setting sun painted golden streaks across the sky, casting long shadows over the dirt trail.

"Aloe plant: medicinal uses. Taro root: magical herb. Saint-John's-Wort: medicinal herb. Ragged robin: magical herb. Cupid's dart: strictly aromatic," Paige recited confidently, ticking each one off on her fingers as she walked beside Piper.

Piper glanced at her, amused. "And that one?" she asked, gesturing toward a tall, leafy plant swaying gently in the breeze.

Paige studied it for a moment before answering, "That is angelica."

Piper raised a curious eyebrow. "And its use?" she pressed, testing her sister further.

Paige smirked, her tone playful. "Um… I think it's used mostly to flavor fish."

Piper exhaled in satisfaction, crossing her arms as she turned to her left, where the rest of their family was gathered on a large picnic blanket spread across the grass. "She got every answer right!" she announced proudly, her voice carrying over the gentle rustling of leaves.

A chorus of cheers erupted from the group. Grinning, Paige gave an exaggerated bow, basking in the moment of victory.

Leo, leaning back on his hands, smirked from his spot on the blanket. "So, uh… what inspired the turnaround?" he asked, his gaze curious.

Paige and Piper settled onto the soft fabric, the evening air cooling around them as the last of the sunlight filtered through the trees. "Well…" Paige began, shrugging lightly. "I kind of liked the power boost I had in Limbo, so it kind of made me want to work harder, faster." Her voice held a note of determination, and the honesty of her words resonated.

"OH!" Prue suddenly exclaimed, pointing at Paige with mock triumph. "She really is my sister." A smirk tugged at her lips as she pulled Paige into a tight hug, squeezing her affectionately.

Laughter rippled through the group, the moment lighthearted and full of warmth.

"Don't be in too big a hurry," Phoebe advised from where she lounged comfortably, stretching out her legs. "Trust me, you want to fight like hell to keep a life separate from magic."

"Hear, hear," Piper agreed, raising an imaginary toast in solidarity.

Phoebe's lips curved into a teasing smirk. "And having a guy around the house like Mason is not such a bad thing," she added slyly, though her voice was just loud enough for everyone to hear.

Paige's expression remained carefully neutral, though there was a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Oh, you liked him?" she asked, her voice deceptively casual.

"Yeah," Phoebe admitted, a bit too enthusiastically.

Paige tilted her head. "Yeah? That's too bad."

Phoebe's brow furrowed slightly. "Why?"

Paige folded her arms, leaning back on her elbows. "He cancelled on me for tonight," she informed her older sister with a small glare. "Said I was trying too hard and that I wasn't comfortable in my own skin."

Phoebe blinked in surprise before letting out a laugh, the irony of the situation hitting her full force.

"So much for impressing the boss, huh?" Leo quipped, his voice light but laced with amusement. The air around them seemed to hum with the mingling energy of their group, a contrast to the peaceful afternoon that surrounded them. The small picnic area was filled with the soft sounds of nature, the rustling of leaves, and the distant chirp of birds settling in for the evening.

"Well, I can take comfort in the fact that he cancelled on Phoebe and not me," Paige shot back with a mischievous smirk, her eyes dancing with amusement. She gave a small giggle, her posture relaxed and carefree, her earlier frustration now nothing more than a fleeting memory.

"Hey." Phoebe retaliated, tossing a piece of fruit at Paige with a playful expression. The fruit sailed through the air, catching Paige slightly off guard, but she only grinned, dodging it with ease.

"Well, here comes your personal trainer from hell," Leo observed, his gaze shifting to the path where Cole was approaching, his presence commanding the attention of everyone around.

"Literally," Piper added under her breath, her tone dry but amused. She gave a sideways glance at Leo as she folded her arms, the relaxed atmosphere shifting just slightly with the arrival of the man who had once been the Source.

Phoebe's eyes brightened at the sight of Cole, and she jumped to her feet, a playful grin spreading across her face. "Ooh," she said, excitement in her voice. "Gotta go." She hurried to intercept him, stopping just in front of him with a radiant smile. "Hi," she said happily, her tone bubbling with the kind of enthusiasm that always seemed to surround her when he was near.

"Wait a minute." Cole stopped her in her tracks, a teasing smile curling on his lips. "Who are you?" he asked, his voice light as he raised an eyebrow in mock confusion.

Phoebe narrowed her eyes playfully, then, without hesitation, pulled him down for a deep and passionate kiss. The world around them seemed to fade away for a moment, the lingering hum of energy around them becoming a distant echo as they lost themselves in the kiss.

"I know," Cole whispered, his voice husky when they finally pulled away. He smirked, the spark of humor never leaving his eyes. "Paige."

Phoebe gasped, her eyes widening in mock shock. She hit him lightly on the chest, though there was no real force behind the motion. "So, what's in our training schedule for today?" she asked with a mischievous grin, her voice low and teasing. "Lightsabers?" she added as a joke, her playful side fully on display.

Prue, standing to the side, raised her hand as if to signal her definite disinterest. "Whatever it is… I'm not a part of it," she declared decisively, casting a glance between Buffy and Cole. "It's Sunday. Buffy and I agreed we don't train on Sundays."

Cole chuckled, his eyes glinting with humor as he turned back to Phoebe. "Actually, I was thinking we could have a private picnic of our own," he said, his smile widening as he leaned closer to her. There was an air of mischief in his words, but it was the kind that Phoebe adored.

"But what about training?" Phoebe asked with a playful smile, her tone just the slightest bit teasing as she tilted her head.

Cole shrugged nonchalantly, the smile never leaving his face. "Prue and Elizabeth are right. No training on a Sunday." He leaned in closer, speaking in a soft, earnest voice. "The Source can wait until Monday. Right now, I was thinking I could take you to this great little picnic spot in the south of France." He said it so casually, but there was an undeniable warmth in his words. He began walking away with her, his arm wrapping around her waist in a natural gesture.

"Really?" Phoebe asked, her eyes lighting up with excitement at the thought of such an impromptu getaway.

"Really," Cole replied with a grin, his eyes locking with hers. He kissed her slowly, deeply, a kiss that spoke volumes about the depth of their connection. Then, in the blink of an eye, he shimmered them both out, leaving the group behind, their presence lingering in the stillness of the air.

The others watched them go, smiles forming on their faces as they exchanged knowing glances.

"You know…" Buffy's voice broke the silence, her expression turning wicked as she leaned in close to Prue, her tone seductively playful. She whispered something into Prue's ear, her breath warm against her skin.

Prue's eyes widened in surprise before her lips curled into a smirk. Without a word, Buffy shimmered out with Prue, the two of them disappearing from sight with a flash of light, leaving the rest of the group behind, their laughter echoing in the space where they had just stood.