Hmmm... how DO you ask a demon? Very interesting part! Definitely, they need to get back to the right dimension. Phoebe's got a hard time ahead of her, I think!
“Every choice has consequences,” said Giles. “According to Einstein’s Theory of Relativity, every choice that can be made is made. Only in different dimensions. Here, you chose to turn left while in another dimension you chose to turn right. Each having its own consequences.”
“So it’s possible there’s a dimension where we don’t even exist?” asked Buffy.
“Most assuredly,” said Giles. “In some dimension, your mother decided not to have children. Or your parents never got married. Here, Buffy was born into the Halliwell family, while in her dimension Piper was.”
“And somewhere there’s a dimension without me,” said Angel. “I never met Darla and she never made me what I am.”
“Precisely,” said Giles.
“This can give you a headache,” said Phoebe.
I liked that. And I agree with Phoebe!
Last edited by Island Breeze on Fri Jul 07, 2006 11:36 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Their search to find a way to return Piper to her own dimension was not going well. Giles’ books and the ones he had managed to borrow from a local library gave little concrete information on dimensional travel. Most seemed to indicate that it was tricky under the best of conditions.
The Book of Shadows was of little help. There was nothing specifically about dimensional travel in the book. The few demons it made reference to were not likely to provide them with any help. Even assuming they could find one of them.
Piper did notice that the Book of Shadows was somewhat different from her own. Nothing major, just creatures she had never heard of and a few missing that she knew had been in her Book of Shadows. While looking through the book, she came across the entry for Belthazor.
“Well, now,” said Piper. “He might be able to help if he was my Belthazor.”
“What do you mean?” asked Phoebe. “According to this entry, this Belthazor is a demonic mercenary. One who specializes in destroying witches. More than likely he’d tried to kill us instead of helping us.”
“He did,” said Piper.
“Really?” asked Phoebe. “So you’ve encountered him before? Well, considering you’re still alive, I assume you vanquished him.”
“Not exactly,” said Piper. “At least, not in the normal sense of vanquishing.”
“I don’t understand,” said Phoebe. “What do you mean not in the normal sense of vanquishing? Just exactly how did you defeat him?”
‘You married him, sweetie,” said Piper. “Oh, I’m sorry. I call my Phoebe that. It’s just so natural for me.”
“That’s okay, I don’t mind,” said Phoebe. “After all, in a way, you are kind of my sister. But what do you mean I married him?”
Piper told Phoebe about their encounters with the Belthazor of her dimension. She ended with the very strange wedding between Cole and Phoebe in a graveyard in the middle of the night.
“Whoa,” said Phoebe, “that is so weird. I married a demon. It seems so unlikely.”
“It’s unlikely that a witch would marry a White Lighter, too,” said Piper. “But we both did.”
“I see your point,” said Phoebe. “I know ADA Turner. We had the same encounter with the demonic judge you mentioned. But Turner has never posed a threat to us. As far as I know, he’s just another innocent in this dimension.”
“Maybe he is here,” said Piper. “Or maybe he’s just biding his time. I’d keep an eye on him if I were you. Our Cole Turner was born about one hundred years ago. My Phoebe found out about him by checking public birth records.”
“When this is all over,” said Phoebe, “I think I’ll do the same thing. If the Turner of this dimension is Belthazor, we need to know about it. He could be a threat.”
“Well, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to stop him the way we did,” said Piper. “I doubt your husband would approve of you becoming involved with anyone else, least of all an upper level demon sent to kill you.”
“You’re right about that,” said Phoebe. “You seem to be taking this pretty well. Leo and me, I mean.”
“Well,” said Piper, “I understand he’s not really my Leo. It was hard at first. But you and he seem as happy as my Leo and I are. And I know we’ll find a way to put things right and I’ll be back with my Leo in no time.”
“I hope you’re right,” said Phoebe. “We haven’t found much that’s of any help yet. But we’ll keep looking.”
“Excuse me,” said Leo, sticking his head in the door. “I hate to break up this bonding session, but Giles says he’s found something.”
“Coming, honey,” said Piper and Phoebe in unison.
The two just giggled as Leo looked at them perplexed. When they got to the living room, everyone else was already there. Everyone but Angel. It was still dark out and he was still searching the demonic underground for any leads or help.
“Leo said you found something,” Piper said to Giles.
“Yes,” said Giles. “One of the books I borrowed from the library has some fascinating information on cross dimensional exchange. According to the theory, a person is anchored, so to speak, in his or her own dimension. It’s theorized some form of a silver cord keeps that person anchored so they don’t end up between dimensions.”
“And that’s good?” asked Buffy.
“Oh, absolutely,” said Giles. “Without this cord, there’s no way to move into another dimension. The person would be trapped forever between all the dimensions in a sort of limbo.”
“Okay,” said Prue, “so we just figure out a way to find this cord and trace it back to Pipers’ dimension. Then we know where to send her.”
“That could be a problem,” said Giles. “The longer a person is out of their own dimension, the more strain the cord is under. Something akin to steadily stretching an elastic band longer and longer. It’s only a matter of time before that cord snaps under the strain. If that happens, Piper will be lost forever.”
"One day we are going to look in our microscope and find outselves staring into God's eye. And the first one to blink is going to loose his testicles." - Peter O'Toole in "Creator"
Wow! You posted at the exact same time I posted a feedback! Okay, this was another great chapter!
“Yes,” said Giles. “One of the books I borrowed from the library has some fascinating information on cross dimensional exchange. According to the theory, a person is anchored, so to speak, in his or her own dimension. It’s theorized some form of a silver cord keeps that person anchored so they don’t end up between dimensions.”
Interesting theory! I like it! But the getting lost forever part is scary! What happens then?
Really great chapter, Jerry! And I must agree with Gerry. I'm curious what may happen to Piper if they can't send her back in time.....loved your update! Well done again!
thanks for the feedback, Island Breeze and Angie. I'm glad you're enjoying the story. I had a lot of fun writing this story and it's nice to know that others are enjoying it. As for what happens next I'm afraid you'll have to wait for the rest of the story. I hope you enjoy the rest of it as much as you've enjoyed it so far.
Jerry
"One day we are going to look in our microscope and find outselves staring into God's eye. And the first one to blink is going to loose his testicles." - Peter O'Toole in "Creator"
“How long,” asked Phoebe, “before this silver cord breaks?”
“I’m not sure,” said Giles. “There doesn’t seem to be a consensus on that. Anywhere from a few minutes to several months or possibly longer. I’ll keep looking to see if I can narrow it down. But at any rate, we’re running out of time.”
“That means we could also lose our Piper,” said Prue. “Assuming that both of these silver cords react the same. When this Pipers’ cord snaps, our Pipers’ cord snap at the same time.”
“That’s a reasonable assumption,” said Giles.
“I remember when a warlock stole Prue’s body while she was astral projecting,” said Piper. “We only had twenty-four hours to get her back.”
“That was different,” said Leo. “Prue had left her body. You’ve moved between dimensions. I’ll let the Elders know what we’ve found out. Maybe that will give them some ideas about what we can do next.”
Leo had no sooner orbed out than the front door to the manor opened. The sun would be up in a few minutes and Angel walked in. He was not alone. A small creature stood next to Angel. It was about three feet tall and was covered in fur. Its’ tail twitched like a cats’ tail. Its’ face was very human-like and reminded everyone of a small child.
“This is Salos,” said Angel. “I think he can help us, but he won’t talk to me. He’ll only talk to Piper.”
“A Trinsor demon,” said Giles. “Harmless for the most part. But they do have one remarkable trait. They can move freely into other dimensions. It’s very rare to find one outside their own dimension.”
“You want to talk to me, Salos?” asked Piper. “Okay, talk.”
“Slayer,” said Salos. “Blood drinker bring Salos to Slayer. Slayer need Salos help. Slayer help Salos. Salos help Slayer.”
“He sounds like a child,” said Buffy.
“He’s not much more than that,” said Angel. “That’s why they stay in their own dimension. No natural predators there.”
“Okay, Salos,” said Piper, “you say you need my help. What do you need?”
The little demon kept rubbing his head on his shoulders. First it would rub the left side and then it would rub the right side. Piper couldn’t help but like the little creature even if it was a demon.
“Slayer want evil man witch,” said Salos. “Salos find for Slayer. Not hard. Slayer help Salos.”
“Evil man witch?” questioned Prue. “Accurate enough description for a warlock, I guess.”
“Okay, Salos,” said Piper. “What do you need my help with?”
“Mate,” said Salos.
“Excuse me?” asked Buffy.
“Mate,” repeated Salos.
“Is he saying what I think he’s saying?” asked Phoebe. “Does he want to mate with Piper?”
“That’s not going to happen,” said Piper.
“I think he means something else,” said Giles. “Salos, what about your mate?”
“Mate taken,” said Salos. “Evil thing keep. Slayer get mate. Salos find evil man witch.”
“He wants you to free his mate,” said Giles. “Apparently, she’s being held captive by someone or something.”
“Oh, that’s different,” said Piper. “Salos, who has your mate?”
“Evil thing,” said Salos. “Big evil. Salos no fight. Salos not strong. Slayer strong. Kill much evil things. Slayer stop evil thing. No eat mate.”
“Eat mate?” asked Piper. “No, Salos, we would never eat your mate.”
“That’s not what he means,” said Angel. “I think I know who might be holding his mate. It’s a demon named Malcor. He runs what you might call the demonic mafia. They operate outside the normal demonic rules.”
“So where is this Malcor?” asked Prue. “In the underworld?”
“No, he wouldn’t dare show his face there,” said Angel. “Regular demons despise him. But he does have a taste for Trinsor demons. When he captures one he fattens it up and then . . . well, I think you get the picture.”
“Okay, so where do we find this Malcor?” asked Buffy.
“I know where he hangs out,” said Angel. “But I guarantee you he knows who you are Piper. At least, who our Piper is. He’ll be ready for you.”
“Except we have an ace up our sleeve,” said Piper.
“What’s that?” asked Angel.
“He’ll be expecting the Slayer,” said Piper, “not a witch. Besides, I have an idea for how to get Salos’ mate back with a minimum of trouble. Now, Angel. Tell us everything you know about this Malcor.”
"One day we are going to look in our microscope and find outselves staring into God's eye. And the first one to blink is going to loose his testicles." - Peter O'Toole in "Creator"
Piper, Angel, and Salos cautiously walked into an abandoned warehouse. From all outward appearances, it looked as if no one had been in the building for years. Angel assured Piper that its’ looks were deceiving. Suddenly two vampires stepped out of the shadows. They stood facing the three. One, with stark white hair looked at Angel.
“Well, Angelus,” said the white haired vampire with a distinct British accent, “it’s been a while.”
“Hello, Spike,” said Angel. “We’re here to see Malcor. We have business with him.”
“’Ello, love,” said Spike, looking at Piper. “What ‘ave we ‘ere? A human and a Trinsor. Bringing a peace offering to Malcor are we mate?”
“I’m no peace offering,” said Piper. “And unless you want to become a pile of dust, I suggest you back off.”
“Feisty, isn’t she?” asked Spike.
“Slayers always are,” said Angel.
“The Slayer?” questioned Spike. “You brought the Slayer here?”
“Like I said,” said Angel, “we have business with Malcor. Just tell him we’re here.”
“Friend of yours?” asked Piper as Spike went to inform Malcor.
“We ran together for a while,” said Angel. “It was a long time ago. Over one hundred years.”
“The term ‘old friend’ takes on a whole new meaning with you, doesn’t it?” asked Piper.
Angel just smiled. Spike came out and told them that Malcor would see them. They walked into the large adjoining room and Malcor was sitting on a chair that was more than reminiscent of a throne.
Malcor was a disgusting sight. Weighing nearly three hundred pounds, his reptile-like skin was a dull yellow. His eyes were green with white pupils. He was pug nosed and his eyelids were transparent and when he blinked it produced a very strange effect.
Six vampires stood around him. It was clear all of the vampires had open contempt for what they perceived as the Slayer. In one corner of the room hung a cage. Inside the cage was a Trinsor demon.
“Angelus,” said Malcor, “you’ve been away for much too long. Spike tells me you brought me a gift. Another Trinsor and the Slayer. How very thoughtful of you.”
“Like I told your boy,” said Piper, “I’m no ones gift.”
“Watch it, sister,” said Spike behind her. “I’m no ones boy.”
“You’d do well to heed Spike,” said Malcor. “You may be the Slayer but I doubt even you are any match for eight vampires. Not to mention me, of course.”
“Give mate,” insisted Salos. “You give, you no die.”
“You give, you no die,” mocked Malcor, chuckling. “Really, do you think that you frighten me? You pathetic little creature. Keep your mouth shut and I might forget I’m supposed to be a genial host.
“Now, Angelus, Spike said you had business with me. What possible business could I have with a vampire that has a soul? You’re not much better than these puny humans.”
“Actually,” said Angel, “we came for the Trinsor. We want her back.”
Malcor laughed.
“You’re joking, right?” asked Malcor. “She’s almost ready. Why should I give her up?”
“Salos told you,” said Angel. “Give her back and we’ll let you live.”
“Oh, you are funny today,” said Malcor. “The three of you are threatening me? I guess I should say the two of you. That little Trinsor isn’t much of a threat.”
“You know,” said Piper, “demons have underestimated me before.”
“I’m no vampire, sweetheart,” said Malcor. “And you’re beginning to bore me. Spike, take out the trash, will you?’
Spike smiled as the eight vampires began to move on the three.
"One day we are going to look in our microscope and find outselves staring into God's eye. And the first one to blink is going to loose his testicles." - Peter O'Toole in "Creator"
“First of all,” said Piper, “I’m not your sweetheart. Second, if you think a couple of vampires frighten me, you are sorely mistaken. Third, there’s one little detail I neglected to mention.”
“And just what might that be?” asked Malcor.
“Leo,” Piper called into the air.
Leo immediately orbed into the room. With him were Prue, Phoebe, and Buffy. They each stood ready to do battle.
“We’re not exactly alone,” said Piper.
“White Lighter,” gasped Malcor. “And three witches, no doubt. Still, we have your outnumbered. And as I said, I’m no vampire.”
The vampires suddenly moved on the group. Angel didn’t hesitate. He moved up to the nearest two and brought his hands up. As he did, a wooden stake popped out from his wrists. The two vampires vanished into piles of dust.
Piper dived, narrowly avoiding one of the vampires. She rolled and came up on her knees with a vial in her hands. She pulled the stopper out of the vial and threw the contents into the vampires’ face. The vampire grabbed its’ face and backed away, screaming in pain.
“Oh, sorry,” said Piper, “I guess you don’t like holy water.”
Phoebe turned on one of the vampires and raised her hands. The vampire exploded and vanished into a pile of dust. Meanwhile, Prue raised her hands and three of the vampires were thrown back across the room from her telekinetic power.
Buffy faced off against Spike. The white haired vampire obviously thought she would be an easy mark. But her martial arts skill took him by surprise. She kicked him several times, driving him back from the ferocity of her attacks.
“What’s the matter, whitey?” asked Buffy. “You don’t like aggressive women?”
“I like them just fine, love,” said Spike, wiping blood from his mouth. “But they always lose in the end.”
“Well, I may not be the slayer, love,” said Buffy, “but I think I can hold my own with the likes of you.”
“Enough,” bellowed Malcor, rising to his full height of seven feet. “As I told you, I’m no vampire.”
He reached out and cast a fireball at Prue. She only barely managed to dive out of the way, narrowly avoiding the attack. Phoebe turned and cast her explosive power at Malcor. He simply reached out and plucked the attack out of the air, extinguishing it.
“Fools,” said Malcor. “Did you honestly think that vampires were the only thing you’d have to face in here? I’m surprised, Angelus. You, most of all, should have understood what you were walking into and been more prepared. I’m very disappointed in you.”
“Well,” said Piper, “let me see if I can’t change that for you.”
Without turning, she pointed behind her. The vampire she had thrown the holy water on suddenly exploded and vanished into a pile of dust. Piper just smiled at Malcor.
“Surprise,” she said.
“But . . . but you’re the Slayer,” stammered Malcor. “The Slayer doesn’t have power like that.”
“Oh, you’d be surprised what I can do,” said Piper. “Now, do we get the Trinsor demon? Or shall we see if you can catch both Phoebe’s and my explosive powers at the same time?”
“Take it,” snapped Malcor angrily. “But this isn’t ended. Count on that.”
Angel walked over and released the Trinsor demon from her cage. Together, the group backed out of the room. Prue and Phoebe went ahead to make sure there weren’t any surprises waiting for them. Just as Piper was about to leave the room, she looked at Malcor.
“Oh,” she said, “just one last thing.”
“What is it?” snarled Malcor.
Piper brought her hands up so quickly that the demon was caught completely off guard. Everyone watched as Malcor exploded and evaporated away.
“I don’t like to be threatened,” she said.
"One day we are going to look in our microscope and find outselves staring into God's eye. And the first one to blink is going to loose his testicles." - Peter O'Toole in "Creator"
“Did everything go as planned?” asked Giles when the others returned to the manor.
“More or less,” said Angel. “Salos took his mate back to their dimension where she’ll be safe. He said as soon as he can locate Collier, he’ll let us know.”
“I just hope we can trust him,” said Piper.
“I don’t think we have much of a choice, actually,” said Giles. “But I have discovered a thing or two in your absence.”
“Good news, I hope,” said Piper. “I could use some right about now.”
“Well, it’s sort of a good news bad news type of thing,” responded Giles. “They’re sort of interconnected.”
“Great,” said Buffy. “Well, what have you got?”
“The amulet that this Collier has,” said Giles, “the one that protects him from a witches power. It’s also the source of his dimensional shifting ability. It’s how he’s able to travel between dimensions. It’s also how he is able to move others through other dimensions.”
“Is that the good news or the bad news?” asked Prue.
“Oh, it’s quite good,” said Giles. “It let’s us know how he does what he does. By better understanding his power, it helps us fight him.
“But there’s more. He can do what he does because the amulet is made from about two-dozen different metals. Each metal is from a different dimension. This special alloy helps him to focus his power and send someone, or himself, to a specific dimension.”
“How does that help us?” asked Phoebe.
“It narrows down the possible dimensions considerably,” said Giles. “Collier can only send someone to a dimension of one of the metals contained in the alloy. It shouldn’t be difficult to determine which dimensions the metals were collected from. It would be even faster to do that if these Elders can find out for us.”
“I’m sure they will if they can,” said Leo.
“This is great,” said Piper. “It should be easy to determine where I belong from only two dozen dimensions.”
“Yes, well,” said Giles.
“Uh oh,” said Buffy. “Now for the bad news.”
“When Collier switched you and our Piper,” said Giles, “the best that I can determine is that your silver cords somehow became intertwined. That’s why you have your Charmed powers and no Slayer abilities. I would imagine it’s much the same with our Piper in your dimension.”
“Okay,” said Piper. “So we just untangle them. Maybe when I return to my dimension and she returns here, they’ll untangle.”
“Or perhaps not,” said Giles. “At any rate, we can’t even think of returning you to your own dimension just yet.”
“Why not?” Prue asked. “If we figure out a way to return her, then we can use the same method to return our Piper. Problem solved.”
“Not exactly,” said Giles. “With the silver cords intertwined, this Piper would return to the exact place where our Piper is in her dimension.”
“So?” asked Piper. “That just means I won’t have to go looking for her. She’ll be right there when I return. That should make it easier for us to return her here.”
“You don’t understand,” said Giles. “I mean exactly the same spot. There’s no telling what the consequences of that would be. In all likelihood, the two of you would merge together and neither would survive.”
“Oh,” said Piper. “Yeah, I guess that is different.”
“Quite,” said Giles. “What about this Power of Three you mentioned? Would it be powerful enough to return the two Pipers to their own dimensions and untangle the cords?”
‘I don’t know,” said Prue. “The Power of Three is the most powerful magic for good in history. But as Leo said, it’s not all-powerful. It would be risky at best.”
“Too risky,” said Leo. “If it was off by even a little bit, we’d lose both of them. You know how unpredictable spells and magic can be. I don’t think it’s worth the risk unless we have no other options open to us.”
“I don’t know if I have a say in this,” said Angel. “But it sounds too dangerous to me. We should find another way.”
Suddenly Piper doubled over from pain. She held her stomach as the others gathered around her to see if they could help. Just as suddenly the pain subsided.
“Are you okay?” asked Phoebe.
“Yeah, I think so,” said Piper. “It felt like my insides were being ripped out. It was a strange sensation. No pain, really. More like very intense pressure.”
“I was afraid of that,” said Giles.
“What?” Prue asked. “What is it, Giles?”
“The strain on her silver cord is increasing,” said Giles. “This is probably only the first symptom. They will probably increase the longer it goes on. We’re starting to run out of time. If we don’t find a way to return Piper to her own dimension soon, we’re going to lose her.”
"One day we are going to look in our microscope and find outselves staring into God's eye. And the first one to blink is going to loose his testicles." - Peter O'Toole in "Creator"
Pipers’ “episode” didn’t seem to have any lasting affects. Giles said that would change. She would probably have more “episodes”. They would probably become more frequent and last longer each time until the strain was just too great. Then the silver cord anchoring her to her own dimension would snap like a rubber band, catapulting her into the nether area between dimensions.
“That’s only a theory, of course,” said Prue.
“Not one I’d care to test if you don’t mind,” said Piper. “So, what are we going to do now?”
“There appears to be only one course of action,” said Giles. “We need to find Collier.”
“Easier said than done,” said Phoebe.
“What good would that do anyway?” asked Buffy. “He wants to kill her. It’s not like he’s about to help return her to where she belongs.”
“No,” said Giles, “but if we can get his amulet, perhaps the sisters can figure out how to use it and return the Pipers’ to their own dimensions.”
“Good luck with that one,” said Piper. “We’d have to get close enough to him to get it. He was immune to my power, remember? He said the amulet shielded him from a witch’s powers. It’s not like he’s just going to let us walk up and take it off him.”
“It won’t protect him from me,” said Angel.
“First things first,” said Giles. “Our first order of business is to locate him. What about this Salos? Any idea when he’s likely to return?”
‘Whenever he locates Collier,” said Angel.
“Assuming he does even then,” said Buffy. “He is a demon after all. We might have seen the last of him.”
“A Power of Three spell,” said Phoebe suddenly.
“We’ve already considered that, remember?” said Prue. “But only as a last resort.”
“No,” said Phoebe, “I mean we use a Power of Three spell to bring Collier to us. It’s too risky to use it on Piper, but I have no qualms about using it on a warlock.”
“That won’t work,” said Piper. “Remember the amulet? He’s immune to our powers. Which probably means spells, too.”
“Maybe we can’t forcibly bring him here,” said Phoebe. “But it just might get his attention. You intimated he was some kind of mercenary or bounty hunter. Well, the people who hire him have to get hold of him somehow. If we can get his attention, maybe he’ll come here to find out who’s trying to get hold of him.”
“That’s not a bad idea,” said Prue.
“I suppose it’s worth a try,” said Giles.
“And if we plan it right,” said Prue, “we just might be able to get that amulet away from him. Without it, he’s as susceptible to our powers as anyone else. I’ll bet he’ll be more than happy to tell us how to return the two Pipers’ to their own dimensions.”
“I’ll get started on the spell,” said Buffy. “With any luck, I’ll have something soon.”
“When he finds out who’s summoning him,” said Giles, “at the very least he’ll be suspicious. He’s sure to be on his guard.”
“Just leave that to me,” said Angel. “I’ll just need him distracted for a second.”
“I think we can handle that,” said Phoebe.
“It’s very likely that we’ll only get one chance at this,” said Giles. “We’d best not mess this up.”
“Don’t try anything before I get back,” said Angel, heading for the front door.
“Where are you going?” asked Giles.
“There’s something I need to take care of first,” said Angel. “I won’t be long.”
“Is he always so mysterious?” asked Buffy after Angel had left.
“Usually,” said Giles. “He’s a very complicated individual.”
“Okay,” said Piper, “we get Collier here. Then we get the amulet away from him. Then all you have to do is use it to untangle our silver cords and return us to our own dimensions, right?”
“Me?” asked Giles. “Oh no, I’m afraid I can’t use it. I don’t know how. You’ll have to do that yourselves. You and the sisters.”
“Okay,” said Piper. “So, tell me how this amulet works.”
“You mean you don’t know?” asked Giles. “I assumed you would know how since you were witches. Oh dear. I seemed to have made a dreadful error.”
“Witches aren’t omnipotent,” said Prue. “Looks like we have some studying to do. While Buffy works on the spell, and Angel is doing whatever he’s doing, the rest of us will see if we can figure out how the amulet works.”
“Gee, I guess I’m back in high school,” joked Piper. “It’s been a long time since I had to hit the books. Not counting spell research and such.”
“It’s going to be a very long night,” said Giles to no one in particular.”
"One day we are going to look in our microscope and find outselves staring into God's eye. And the first one to blink is going to loose his testicles." - Peter O'Toole in "Creator"
Their research on the amulet was not going well. They had learned a great deal about it, but nothing that hinted at how it operated. Or how to control it. It apparently had been made millennia ago by a powerful demon named Lishtak. Traveling to the various dimensions, Lishtak had collected sufficient metal from each of these dimensions to use for the amulet. The metals were all melted down and mixed together to create a special alloy.
Then, using ancient magic, the alloy was poured to create the star-shaped amulet. A single stone, gathered in the nether reaches between dimensions, was set in the center of the amulet. When it was completed, the amulets’ magic radiated into each of the dimensions from which the metals had been collected. Unlike normal magic, which was normally confined to its own dimension.
No one knew what purpose the amulet was to have served. Lishtak refused to say. Nor would anyone ever know. In his first attempt to harness the power of the amulet, Lishtak was consumed and the amulet lost. Both demon and the amulet vanished, presumably destroyed by the great magic of each.
Then, Collier simply appeared with it one day. Originally a witch, his only power had been the ability to change the color of inanimate objects. He was considered less than even a minor player in the battle of good versus evil. Seduced by the magic of the amulet, Collier turned evil and became a warlock. Able to use the powerful magic of the amulet, he became a powerful source of evil. And the bane to all witches in two-dozen dimensions.
“Apparently this Collier found the amulet,” said Giles. “He was able to learn how to control its’ magic.”
“That might have taken him years to do,” said Prue. “I don’t think we have that kind of time.”
“Then we’ll have to figure it out sooner,” said Buffy, coming into the room. “I’ve got the spell ready. We can use it as soon as Angel gets back.”
As if this were a cue, the front door flew open. Sunlight streamed in from the newly risen sun. Angel rushed in and slammed the door behind him, then rushed into the entryway, out of the sunlight. He was smoking.
“Wasn’t sure I was going to make it that time,” he said.
“Pew,” said Phoebe. “Put a fork in him. He’s done.”
“Hazard of being a vampire,” said Angel, smiling.
“I assume you finished whatever it was you went to do,” said Giles.
“Oh, yeah,” said Angel.
“Just what did you go do, anyway?” asked Piper.
Angel looked at Leo.
“Why don’t you do that orbing thing you do?” asked Angel.
Leo just looked at Angel for a moment and then shrugged. He stood in place for another moment but nothing happened.
“I can’t orb,” Leo announced finally.
“Only out,” said Angel. “It’s only temporary. I have some . . . friends who’ve put an enchantment around the house. It prevents anyone from magically leaving the building. They can get in okay, but to get out they have to do it the old fashioned way. Through a door.”
“Or a window,” said Prue, a bit angry. “You enchanted the manor?”
“Only temporarily,” said Angel. “It will wear off in a day or so. I figured we’d need some protection against this Collier’s blinking or whatever you call it. And he might detect it if you had done it. Besides, if he’s immune to your powers, it might not affect him if you had done it.”
“That was good thinking,” said Phoebe. “Only, next time, run it by us first. It is our house.”
“Oh, yeah, sorry about that,” said Angel. “It won’t prevent him from dimensional traveling, however. So we’ll need to get the amulet away from him as soon as possible.”
“Well, we have a summoning spell,” said Prue. “All we need now is to know where Collier is. Which means we need Salos. So where is he?”
“He’ll be here,” said Angel, “just as soon as he locates Collier. You helped free his mate. And Trinsor demons are very responsible about paying their debts.”
“He’d better be,” said Buffy. “We’re running out of time. If he doesn’t come through for us, I’m going to write a special spell just for him. And believe me, he won’t like it.”
“He’ll be here,” promised Angel.
“We’d better keep looking,” said Piper. “I’ll need to know how to use that amulet if I’m ever to get home.”
Phoebe went into the kitchen to put on some coffee as the rest went back to Giles’ books.
"One day we are going to look in our microscope and find outselves staring into God's eye. And the first one to blink is going to loose his testicles." - Peter O'Toole in "Creator"
Pipers’ second “episode” struck her at midmorning. This one was more intense than the first and lasted longer. Angel and Prue helped Piper to her feet as her head cleared.
“That was worse than the first one,” said Piper. “A couple of more like that and I don’t think I’m going to survive.”
“That’s not going to happen,” said Prue. “We’re going to get you home before that happens.”
“Slayer hurt?” questioned Salos, peering in from the entryway. “Salos help Slayer. Salos find evil male witch.”
“Salos,” said Piper. “You found him? You know where Collier is?”
“Salos knows,” said Salos. “Salos follow. Evil man witch in other same place. Then go to different other same place. Many times. Now, evil man witch this place.”
“Other same place?” questioned Buffy.
“A different dimension, I would gather,” said Giles. “Physically, they would probably all look the same. I suppose it’s the best explanation the little fellow can give because of his limited grasp on our language.”
“Different same place?” questioned Angel. “That probably means he’s been moving from dimension to dimension.”
“That would explain why the Elders can’t find him,” said Leo. “Moving from dimension to dimension would make it more difficult to locate him.”
“So, if he’s in ‘this place’ now,” said Phoebe, “that must mean he’s in this dimension. That’s good. It will make Buffys’ spell that much stronger.”
“We should use it as soon as possible,” said Giles. “The longer we wait, the greater the chance he’ll move into another dimension. That will make it harder to bring him here.”
“He’s right,” said Piper. “But we need to check something first. Just to be sure we’re ready. Leo, try to orb ‘up there’ and then back here.”
Leo closed his eyes and concentrated. Nothing happened for several moments.
“I can’t orb out,” he announced. “The enchantment must still be in place.”
“I was thinking,” said Buffy. “What about a power stripping potion? That would strip Collier of his powers and maybe make him easier to deal with.”
“I don’t think that will work in this case,” said Piper. “Collier seems to be getting his power directly from that amulet. Even if we strip what little power he actually has, he still has access to the amulet. Our best chance is to get that amulet away from him so he won’t be immune to our powers. Then we can get the answers from him we need.”
“Like I said,” said Angel, “leave that part to me.”
“How do you propose to get close enough to him to get it?” asked Giles.
“Let’s just say he’s probably not expecting it,” said Angel. “He’s used to dealing with witches and demons. I doubt he even knows about me.”
“What if he does?” asked Buffy.
“The we improvise,” said Piper. “My sisters and I are pretty good at that. Our opponents can’t guess what we’re up to since half the time we don’t usually know ourselves until we do it.”
“That’s kind of the way we work, too,” said Phoebe. “Okay. The enchantment is in place. We have Buffys’ spell that, hopefully, will bring Collier to us. Guess we’re about as ready as we’re ever going to be.”
“What if the spell doesn’t bring him here?” asked Prue.
“Then we get Salos to show us where he is and go to him,” said Piper. “I’m getting tired of all this. I want it over.”
“And the longer we wait,” said Giles, “the more likely we are to miss our opportunity.”
“He’s right,” said Phoebe. “Let’s do it.”
The three sisters removed pieces of paper from their pockets. They each looked over the spell quickly to make sure they were ready. Then they recited the spell in unison.
“Theodore Collier, we summon you here,
“We compel you to come, whether far or near.
“Across the dimensions, we send this plea,
“We summon this warlock, by the Power of Three.
Piper found it strange to have a Power of Three spell being cast without her. But these three were the Charmed Ones here. It was their responsibility to cast the spells and protect the innocent. They all waited impatiently to see what, if anything, would happen.
"One day we are going to look in our microscope and find outselves staring into God's eye. And the first one to blink is going to loose his testicles." - Peter O'Toole in "Creator"
Everyone waited to see if the spell would work. With any luck, Collier would appear and Angel could grab the amulet before he realized what was going on. They just had to wait until he blinked in. Which apparently wasn’t going to happen. After a few moments, Collier still hadn’t appeared.
“Looks like it didn’t work,” said Leo.
“Oh, I wouldn’t say that exactly,” said a voice behind them.
They all turned to see Collier leaning against the fireplace. The amulet hung outside his shirt around his neck. He was smiling at them.
“You really didn’t expect that spell to bring me here, did you?” he asked. “Since you summoned me, you obviously know who I am. You must also have known the spell wouldn’t affect me.”
“It seems to have worked okay,” said Phoebe. “You’re here, aren’t you?”
“I’m here by choice,” said Collier. “The spell got my attention. I was curious why you were summoning me. Witches usually don’t summon me. I assume you want something.”
“Yeah,” said Piper. “Send me back where I belong.”
“Oh, so you’re here,” said Collier. “Your little defense in your club kind of took me by surprise. I didn’t think something like that was possible.
“I had no idea where you had gone. You certainly didn’t go where I had intended. I’ve spent a great deal of time looking for you. Do you have any idea how difficult it is to distinguish between you and the real Piper of a particular dimension? It can get frustrating, let me tell you.”
“I couldn’t care less,” said Piper. “Just send me back.”
“Or what?” asked Collier laughing. “You’ll use your powers on me? Well, even with four witches, I’m still immune to your powers. The Trinsor demon is no threat to me. Let’s see. We also have a White Lighter. But then, they’re pacifists in any dimension. So it’s unlikely he’ll try anything. It’s not in his nature.
“And finally there are two humans. No powers whatsoever. So they’re hardly a threat to me. I suppose you could try to overpower me. But I’d just blink away before you can even get to me. Let’s face it, honey. You’re not in much of a position to demand anything.”
“Don’t call me honey,” said Piper. “Think of the Piper who belongs here. She’s not even a witch. By leaving me here, you’re condemning her to death, too.”
“Collateral damage,” said Collier. “It happens sometimes. All I have to do is wait and my job is finished. Now, if that’s all you wanted, I really need to be going.”
He stood smiling at them for a moment. Then the smile faded replaced by a frown.
“What’s the matter?” asked Prue. “Having trouble blinking away?”
“Ingenious,” said Collier. “You get someone other than a witch to enchant the house to prevent me from blinking away. That way I’m stuck here. Very creative. Except that I doubt the enchantment can prevent me from moving interdimensionally.”
He reached up and grasped the amulet around his neck. Suddenly, Angel moved. With blinding speed, faster than anyone could see, he was just as quickly next to Collier. He held the warlock in the iron grasp of a vampires’ strength.
“See,” Angel said to the others, “I told you he wouldn’t be suspecting me.” He looked at Collier. “That little trinket might protect you against them, but I doubt it will protect you against a vampire. Now, we have a few questions for you. You’re going to tell us what we want to know. If you don’t, I might just rethink my policy about drinking human blood. I imagine you could last for a month or more.”
“You don’t frighten me,” said Collier. “Vampire or not, I know about you. The vampire with a soul who wants to be human again. You aren’t going to do anything to me and risk all that. You’re bluffing.”
‘Maybe you’re right,” said Angel, grabbing the amulet. “But without this, you aren’t immune to their powers. And they don’t have my restrictions.”
Angel yanked the amulet off of Collier’s neck.
“No,” screamed Collier in fear.
Everyone watched as Colliers’ body began to glow and fade at the same time. Within seconds he simply vanished, leaving Angel holding the amulet.
"One day we are going to look in our microscope and find outselves staring into God's eye. And the first one to blink is going to loose his testicles." - Peter O'Toole in "Creator"
“He must have used the amulet to move between dimensions,” said Giles. “The magic in the amulet probably acted like a booster of sorts. Providing a stable power source, so to speak, to the silver cord that anchored him to his own dimension.”
“So when Angel removed the amulet,” said Piper, “he cut the power to the silver cord.”
“Precisely,” said Giles. “Much like hooking up a spare battery to a car, I would imagine. As long as he wore the amulet, he was able to draw on its’ power.”
“So what happened to him?” asked Prue. “When Angel removed the amulet, did he return to his own dimension?”
‘I don’t think so,” said Giles. “Remember Salos said Collier had been moving from one dimension to another. That would increase the strain on his silver cord, causing it to weaken faster than normal. It was only the power of the amulet that kept it from snapping.”
“Which means without the amulet,” said Piper, “he didn’t have that extra power. All of the strain would have suddenly been dumped onto the cord.”
“That seems a reasonable assumption,” said Giles. “I suppose it’s not unlike two people carrying a very heavy object. If one person should just suddenly let go, the other would unexpectedly be forced to shoulder the burden alone.”
“And they wouldn’t be able to stand up with that,” said Angel. “With all that weight suddenly thrust upon them, they couldn’t possibly handle it.”
“Yes,” said Giles. “With that much strain on it, a silver cord would suddenly snap. Casting the person out of the dimension they were in.”
“Wait a minute,” said Buffy. “Didn’t you say if that happened he’d be trapped between dimension? Unable to enter any of them?”
“Yes, I did,” said Giles. “Which means that Mr. Collier is probably floating between dimensions at this very moment. Where he’ll remain forever. I think you’ve seen the last of this warlock.”
“You moved pretty fast,” Piper said to Angel. “I’ve never seen anyone move that fast before.”
“The benefits of being a vampire,” said Angel. “We can only do it in spurts and it’s very tiring. But it gave us the edge we needed.”
“Well, one problem is solved,” said Phoebe. “Collier’s no longer a threat and we have the amulet. But we still have the problem of how to use it.”
“We also didn’t find out who hired him,” said Prue. “When they find out he’s failed, they may send someone else after Piper.”
“It’s probably someone from my own dimension,” said Piper. “Once I get back, I can see if I can find out who it is. Our main problem now is learning how to use the amulet.”
“That might be a bit dicey,” said Giles. “We’ve gone through nearly everything we have on the amulet. Almost nothing is known about the amulet itself. Aside from what we’ve already learned.”
“”We’ll just have to keep looking,” said Piper. “The more time we waste, the less time we have. And the Piper who belongs here has. She may not even have any idea what’s going on.”
“Not necessarily,” said Angel, holding up the amulet.
“Of course,” said Giles. “If it protected Collier from the strain of interdimensional travel, it should also protect Piper. And with her cord intertwined with our Pipers’, that protection will probably cover her as well.”
“That’s only an assumption,” said Leo. “There’s no way to know for sure.”
“But I don’t even know how to use it,” said Piper. “How can I use it to protect myself without knowing how it works?”
“It’s possible that simply possessing the amulet will transfer that protection,” said Giles. “Similar to a charm or talisman. It did stop protecting Collier by simply removing it.”
“It’s worth a try,” said Piper. “I guess it can’t hurt.”
She reached out and took the amulet from Angel. As he released his hold on the star-shaped item, Piper blacked out.
"One day we are going to look in our microscope and find outselves staring into God's eye. And the first one to blink is going to loose his testicles." - Peter O'Toole in "Creator"
Piper looked around. Everywhere she looked she saw only a field of gray. As if she were standing in a thick blanket of fog. But she wasn’t the least bit uncomfortable.
“Where am I?” she asked.
“You are in my domain,” responded a disembodied voice.
“Who are you?” asked Piper. “What domain are you talking about? How did I get here?”
“I am Lishtak,” said the voice. “And my domain is that area that exists between dimensions. Welcome, Charmed One.”
“Lishtak is dead,” said Piper. “How do you know who I am?”
‘I know all that happens in my domain,” said Lishtak. “That is how I know you.”
“You can read my mind?” asked Piper.
“No,” said Lishtak, “that is not one of my abilities. But I can sense that you are a powerful witch. A witch of such great power could only be one of the Charmed Ones. As for my death, my form was consumed by the power I unleashed. I underestimated it. But my essence continues on here, in this place.”
“How did I get here?” asked Piper.
“You touched the amulet,” said Lishtak. “The other who held it is of no use to me. His body is no longer alive. It cannot benefit me. When you took the amulet, I opened a door of sorts. To allow you to pass through. So that we could speak. You have not physically moved. This meeting is more in your mind than in reality. But it affords us the chance to talk.”
“Talk about what?” asked Piper. “What do you want from me?”
“Your body,” said Lishtak. “Or more correctly, partial use of it. My essence cannot leave this place. I must have a physical form for that. All I ask it that you allow me to share your form and take me from this place.”
“Why?” Piper asked.
“To help locate a suitable form for my essence,” said Lishtak. “A form I can assume and use to return to the mortal realm. To become what I once was.”
“Oh, yeah, now that’s going to happen,” said Piper sarcastically. “Now, why would I do that? If you know who I am, you also know I vanquish your kind. Why should I help you?”
“Survival,” said Lishtak. “Even now your physical form is dying. I can prevent that. And I can untangle your connection with the other one like you. Freeing both of you.”
“And let her die?” asked Piper. “You know I can’t do that. She’s an innocent. I can’t let her die to save myself.”
“Of course not,” said Lishtak. “I would also return both of you to where you belong. That will prevent both deaths.”
“So,” said Piper, “I just let you hitch a ride until you find the right body, and then you leave me for that body. Is that the deal?”
“Yes,” said Lishtak. “And I can anticipate your next objection. The body I choose will be one where the spirit has already left it, but the body still functions. What you would call brain dead. So no other innocents are put at risk.”
“And if I refuse?” asked Piper.
“I simply withhold my power to sustain you,” said Lishtak. “You, and the other like you, will die. I will simply withhold my power until your form ceases to function. At any rate, another will eventually find the amulet. And I would then use their form to return to the mortal realm.”
“You sort of got me over a barrel, don’t you?” asked Piper.
“In a manner of speaking,” said Lishtak. “I will give you time to consider my proposal. But not too much time. When you’re ready, you can return here and complete our bargain. Until then, wear the amulet so that my power can sustain you. In so doing, it will also sustain the other.”
Pipers’ vision blacked out again.
"One day we are going to look in our microscope and find outselves staring into God's eye. And the first one to blink is going to loose his testicles." - Peter O'Toole in "Creator"
Wow! This is a lot of good information!! I enjoyed reading it very much, Jerry! Now that the demon is gone and Piper is passed out, I wonder what's going to happen next....very good chapters!
Great parts! I really enjoyed the end of Collier...
“What’s the matter?” asked Prue. “Having trouble blinking away?”
“Ingenious,” said Collier. “You get someone other than a witch to enchant the house to prevent me from blinking away. That way I’m stuck here. Very creative. Except that I doubt the enchantment can prevent me from moving interdimensionally.”
He reached up and grasped the amulet around his neck. Suddenly, Angel moved. With blinding speed, faster than anyone could see, he was just as quickly next to Collier. He held the warlock in the iron grasp of a vampires’ strength.
“See,” Angel said to the others, “I told you he wouldn’t be suspecting me.” He looked at Collier. “That little trinket might protect you against them, but I doubt it will protect you against a vampire. Now, we have a few questions for you. You’re going to tell us what we want to know. If you don’t, I might just rethink my policy about drinking human blood. I imagine you could last for a month or more.”
“You can’t trust him,” said Prue. “He’s a demon. He’ll say anything to get you to help him. More than likely, he’ll just try to take you over if you agree to this.”
“You’re probably right,” said Piper. “But I don’t seem to have another choice. There’s no telling how long it will take to find another way to get me back. Even assuming that’s even possible.”
“Plus there’s our Piper to consider,” said Phoebe. “To us, she’s an innocent. We can’t just let her die if there’s something we can do to save her.”
“As much as I’d hate to lose her,” said Giles, “she’s prepared to give her life to stop a demon. She is the Slayer, after all.”
“Except that it won’t be stopped,” said Angel. “She’d be dying for nothing. Like Lishtak told Piper, he’ll just use the next person who finds the amulet.”
“Angel’s right,” said Buffy. “What about Salos? He can travel between dimensions and apparently can take others with him. Can’t he just take Piper back where she belongs?”
‘Not until the cords are untangled,” said Giles. “And we have no way to do that.”
“I don’t see any other way,” said Piper. “I’ll have to agree to what he wants. Once I get home, maybe my sisters and I can figure out a way to stop him.”
“I’ll see that you have all the information we can find on Lishtak,” said Giles.
“I’ll check the Book of Shadows,” said Phoebe. “It might have something on him in there.”
“That’s unlikely,” said Leo. “Lishtak was believed to have been vanquished thousands of years ago. There wouldn’t be any reason for you to know about him. I’ll check with the Elders to see if they can help.”
“Well,” said Piper, “before I let him hitch a ride inside me, I’ll make sure your Piper is back here safe and sound first. That will be one last thing we will have to worry about.”
“All right then,” said Giles. “I suggest we all get ready. This is going to be tricky at best. We need to be prepared in case Lishtak tries something before Piper returns home.”
Leo turned and headed for the kitchen.
“Where are you going?” asked Phoebe.
“To see the Elders,” said Leo.
“Don’t you have to orb to do that?’ asked Phoebe.
“Yes, I do,” said Leo. “And until the enchantment on the manor runs out, I have to be outside to do that, remember? I just figured it was better if I orbed in the backyard where I’m not likely to be seen.”
“Oh, right,” said Phoebe. “I forgot.”
“I’m going to miss you,” Piper said to Prue as the others made their preparations. “It’s almost like loosing you all over again. It happened so quickly I never had a chance to say goodbye. I just wanted to say goodbye now unless there wasn’t an opportunity later.”
Prue hugged Piper.
“I can understand that,” said Prue. “I can imagine how I’d feel if I lost one of my sisters. I guess, in a way, we are sisters. And I’m going to miss you, too. I’ve kind of gotten used to having you around.”
“Well,” said Piper, “maybe you and the Piper who belongs here can stay in touch. I don’t know how much alike we are but I’m sure she’d appreciate the friendship of someone else magical. Being the Slayer must be trying on her at times. And Giles and her friends just can’t understand some things. They’re innocents. It’s not like having someone like us around.”
“I’m sure you’re right,” said Prue. “I’ll have to make sure to get her address and phone number before she leaves.”
“Well, once this is all settled,” said Piper, “I’m going to see if there’s a Slayer where I’m from. It might take some convincing but I’m sure I can persuade her what’s happened. Maybe she could use a magical shoulder from time to time.”
“You sound like Phoebe,” said Prue. “I guess we’d better check in with the others. Lishtak isn’t going to wait for your answer forever.”
The two went to the attic to see what Phoebe had learned from the Book of Shadows. For a while, at least, Piper almost felt as if Prue had never left her.
"One day we are going to look in our microscope and find outselves staring into God's eye. And the first one to blink is going to loose his testicles." - Peter O'Toole in "Creator"
Jerry this story is really special! It's a great Charmed fic and it brings a lot of nice emotions between Piper and her sisters especially her memory of Prue. I really liked this chapter and as I've said in my homesite, I love it and I know I'll miss it when its over! But that doesn't mean it can't be read over again! This is a story that could be read again... Nice job!
Very interesting part! Definitely, they need to get back to the right dimension. Phoebe's got a hard time ahead of her, I think!
