Fan Fic and More

Crap! Just when things are bad enough, they won't work with Cole to let him buy Margaret...and the town thinks Leo is a bad guy? I wonder if he's bad now that he's in this realm - although Margaret did say that if he was good before he would be good still...hmmm. I'm curious just what's going to happen next! Great update, Jerry!

FOURTEEN

"Oh thank goodness," cried Piper rushing to embrace Leo. "We thought we'd lost you."

But instead of embracing him Piper passed right through him. As if he wasn't there. Leo turned to look at her. That's when she noticed his transparency. Tears came to her eyes.

"He's dead," she sobbed.

Leo looked like he was trying to speak but there was no sound coming out. Cole walked up to him.

"Leo, can you hear me?" he asked.

Leo nodded his head yes.

"Are you dead?" Cole asked.

Leo shook his head no. He mouthed something but Cole couldn't make out what it was.

"I don't think he's dead," Cole said to Piper. "I think something else is going on here."

"Augury," cried Amador. "Stand clear of it. It has come for Dolcine. But is it a good augury or an evil one?"

"For crying out loud," said Piper, "that's no augury. That's Leo. He's a White Lighter. Kind of like an angel."

"White Lighter?" Amador repeated slowly. "Angel? Your words have no meaning for me."

All the time Cole seemed to be thinking. Suddenly he turned toward Amador and the crowd.

"It's because this is an evil augury," he said loudly. "It has bewitched her. Cast a spell so that she serves it. It is an evil omen. And it has come for Dolcine."

"And all who are around here will suffer," said Amador, taking a stockley out of his robes. "We must kill the bearer of this evil omen."

"No," cried Cole. "That will only anger the augury. It will take its vengeance on all of you. This augury is an aid to witches. It comes to make a new witch. It wants Dolcine."

"Cole, what are you doing?" asked Paige.

Cole turned his back to the crowd and faced Paige.

"Go with me on this," he whispered to her. "I have an idea. Just trust me."

Cole turned back to the crowd.

"Ask her," he said pointing at Paige. "She can tell you the truth of this augury. Tell them, Paige. Tell them how this man died in a great war that killed many. How he was returned to guide and protect witches."

"It . . . . it's true," said Paige, not knowing exactly what Cole was up to. "He fought in a great war. Many died, including him. Then he returned as a White Lighter. A spirit that gives aid and guidance to witches. He has bewitched my sister. Caused her to fall in love with him. Now he seeks to bewitch Margaret, I mean Dolcine."

"This is a great evil," Cole called out. "All who have witnessed it this day will die a horrible death. It will seek its vengeance on everyone and none have the power to stop it."

"An aid to witches?" questioned Amador. "This cannot be. All witches were destroyed long ago. There are no more witches."

"This augury will restore them," said Cole. "It cannot harm me. You all know I am demon. My power is great. It has no power over me or those who serve me. But I cannot protect you, alas. It has come for Dolcine and when it has taken her it will destroy all witnesses so that none may tell the tale."

"Master," pleaded Amador, "help us. We cannot fight this augury. We have no power over it. You cannot leave us defenseless against it."

"You have one choice," said Cole. "Send the object of its desire far away. It will follow and leave you in peace. Until it has taken its victim it cannot harm you. If you send the object of its desire away, it will no longer bother you."

"You wished to purchase Dolcine only a moment ago," said Amador. "I give her to you. She is now your property. Take her away from us."

"I don't know," said Cole. "This is a powerful augury. While it cannot harm me it will be a great burden on me."

"Please, master, I beg of you," said Amador. "I am a simple farmer. I give her to you free and clear. No payment. She is yours. Please take her far from us so that this augury will not take its vengeance on us."

"Okay," said Cole. "Dolcine, gather your belongings quickly. We must leave this place immediately." His voice rose slightly so that he was sure Leo could hear him. "When we leave this place, the augury will follow. No one must follow for at least three days. Only then will the augury be taken from you."

"Bless you, master, bless you," said Amador as Margaret hurried to her quarters. "None shall leave this place for three days. We shall pray to the Oracle that you be given the power to overcome this augury. We praise you for your benevolence to us."

Margaret returned a few moments later carrying two small bags. She huddled close to Paige and Piper obviously frightened of Leo. Cole turned to face Leo.

"Hear me, augury," he said loudly. "I am a great demon. My power is immense. I take the object of your desire with me. Leave these demonis in peace. If you wish the woman, you must take her from me."

Cole turned and began to head away from the ranch. Leo had a perplexed look on his face but followed as Piper, Paige, and Margaret hurried behind Cole. Cole glanced back several time to make sure no one was following them. All he saw was the group of demonis and gadlings huddled together in fear watching as Leo walked close behind.

Cole walked for nearly an hour before he finally came to a stop. He backtracked a few yards and surveyed the countryside. There was no sign of anyone following them. Then he returned to the three women and Leo.

"What the hell was that all about?" Piper shouted. "Calling Leo an evil augury. That he was going to destroy all of them. I thought you were claiming to be good. How can you claim that after what you did to Leo?"

"I didn't do anything to Leo," said Cole, looking over at the specter standing next to Piper. "When he suddenly appeared I got an idea. We couldn't buy Margaret. But if they thought she was a danger I figured Amador would let her go. And from what she told us about auguries, it sounded like the best way to do it."

"So, I'm not cursed?" asked Margaret looking fearfully at Leo.

"No," said Cole. "Didn't you hear Piper? Leo's no augury. He's a White Lighter. As a witch, you should know about White Lighters."

"White Lighter?" questioned Margaret. "That makes him good."

"Very good," said Paige. "I have to hand it to you, Cole. I didn't know what you had in mind. But you seemed to have pulled it off nicely. We find Leo and get Margaret without having to pay for her. Not a bad days work."

"Why is Leo a spirit?" Piper asked. "He said he wasn't dead. But look at him. Why can't he say anything?"

"Because he's a White Lighter," said Margaret, now more relaxed. "White Lighters' can't physically enter this realm. Because they've all ready died. The best that can happen is that he can manifest himself as a spirit. But it's quite taxing. And he obviously hasn't gotten it completely right yet since he can't talk."

"So he's not dead?" questioned Paige.

"No," said Margaret. "Well, yes he is. He has to be if he's a White Lighter. But the Leo you know is fine. He's just not corporeal in this realm."

"Cole Turner," said Piper turning to Cole, "don't ever do anything like that again. You had me scared to death of what might happen."

"Sorry," said Cole. He turned to Leo. "Can you still hear me?"

Leo nodded his head yes.

"Do you understand what happened?" Cole asked.

Again, Leo nodded his head yes.

"Good," said Cole. "I didn't want you to misunderstand."

Leo just nodded his head again.

"If he practices," said Margaret, "he'll get better at manifesting himself. Eventually he should be able to speak. But as I said, it's very taxing."

"Well, at least we know he's okay," said Piper. "Don't worry, honey. We'll find some way to help you."

Leo just smiled at her.

"Well," said Cole, "we'd better get going. We have a long way to go."

"Where are we going?" Paige asked.

"To see this Oracle," said Cole. "It sounds to me like it's the one being in this place that can help us."

Without another word Cole turned and began to walk north. With no other ideas open to them, the rest fell in behind him and began the long journey to the Oracle.

Oh the suspense just keeps tacking on! Great update!

FIFTEEN

"You said this Oracle was four or five days north of here," said Cole as the party made camp that night.

"I think so," said Margaret. "To be honest, I don't even know if it really exists. All I've ever heard are rumors."

"Well, we don't have any other leads," said Cole. "Besides, if this Oracle does exist, it should be able to tell us where Phoebe is. And even a way out of this place."

"I wish I could be more help," said Margaret. "I'm afraid there's not many facts I can give you. Gadlings don't usually get told much except what to do."

"Humans," corrected Piper. "You're not one of these gadlings. You don't belong here. And don't worry about it. We'll do fine no matter how much help you can give us. The important thing is now you're free."

"There is no such thing as a free gadling," said Margaret.

"Well, you belong to me," said Cole smiling. "And as far as anyone else is concerned, so do Piper and Paige. If they believe that, it might help to avert trouble."

"I don't belong to anyone," insisted Paige.

"Only on paper," said Cole, "and only as long as we're here. From the looks of things that's probably the best face to put on anyone we run into. Like I said, it might help to avert trouble."

"Well, if there is any trouble," said Piper, "all you have to do is change into Belthazor. That should stop any problems before they develop."

"I'd rather not do that," said Cole. "I didn't say anything before but I had trouble controlling Belthazor. It's like he was a different person inside me. I only changed because I lost my temper. If I change again, I'm not real sure if I'll be able to change back. And you don't want Belthazor loose without me to control him."

"That might be why most of the higher level demons don't appear very often," said Margaret. "Among the gadlings here it's well known that most demons remain in their human form. Only on rare occasions do they ever show their demonic form."

"So what's to stop someone from claiming to be a demon when they really aren't one?" Paige asked.

"I don't know," said Margaret. "I only know that those who claim to be demons actually are demons."

"Let's hope we don't have to find out," said Cole. "That little augury ploy only worked because Amador saw me change. He knew I was a demon. I didn't have to prove it to him."

"Speaking of auguries," said Piper, looking around, "has anyone seen Leo? I haven't seen him since he disappeared earlier this afternoon."

"I told you that manifesting himself was taxing," said Margaret. "He's probably conserving his strength. It gets easier with practice, as I understand. But the first few times can be very tiring."

"How do you know so much about all this?" Paige asked.

"I've been here ten years," said Margaret. "You learn a lot of things in that amount of time. Just like you learned about being a witch after you learned you were one."

"I've only been a witch a couple of years," said Paige. "Lucky for me I have Piper and Phoebe to help."

"Well," said Cole, "I think we'd better take a cue from Leo and get some rest. We have a long journey ahead of us and we need all our strength."

"Good idea," said Piper. "I'm worn out. Good night Leo, wherever you are."

The small group got ready to for bed.
* *

Piper opened her eyes and saw that the sun was up. The sky was as clear and blue as it had been on the previous day. Only a few puffy clouds floated lazily in the distance. She looked over and saw Paige, Cole, and Margaret still just waking up. Even though they had to sleep on the ground she felt well rested.

"Good morning, sleepy head," said a voice behind her. "The sun's been up for an hour. I thought you were going to sleep the whole morning away."

Piper turned and saw Leo sitting on a log nearby.

"Leo," she squealed, rushing over to hug him.

But as before, she simply passed through him. He was still non-corporeal. As she passed through his body she tripped on the log he was sitting on and fell clamoring to the ground. She turned over and saw Paige, Cole, and Margaret all laughing.

"It's not funny," said Piper, only slightly irritated.

"I'm sorry, honey, but it is," said Paige.

"I have to remember that Leo isn't real," said Piper brushing herself off.

"I'm as real as I ever was," said Leo. "I just don't have a physical body."

"I see you finally got the hang of materializing," said Cole.

"Yeah," said Leo. "It's really very easy. I guess I was just trying too hard before. It's kind of like orbing. Don't think about it too much. Just decide what you want to do and sort of let it happen. Hello, Margaret."

"Hello, Leo," said Margaret. "I'm sorry if I seem a bit unfriendly. I'm used to apparitions being considered evil omens. Old habits are hard to break."

"I know," said Leo. "Just remember I'm not an apparition. I'm a White Lighter. Maybe that will help."

"I'm hungry," said Paige. "Is there anything to eat around here?"

"There are all kinds of fruit trees, not to mention roots and berries," said Margaret. "You just have to know where to look. Lucky for you three I know exactly where to look."

"Let's get to it, then," said Paige. "I'm starved."

"Where have you been all this time?" Piper asked Leo as Margaret and Paige went to look for some food.

"Right here," said Leo. "I could see and hear everything you were doing. I just couldn't let you know I was here. It's not easy being a ghost."

"Well, Margaret says you should return to normal when we leave this place," said Cole looking around. "Assuming we can find a way out."

"First things first," said Piper. "We came here to get Phoebe. Let's find her and then we can look for a way out."

They all had a good breakfast of the fruits, berries, and roots that Margaret had helped locate for them. It was surprisingly good. It was far from their usual breakfast but they found they didn't miss the dishes Piper usually fixed for them.

"Okay," said Cole when they had finished breakfast, "I think the first thing we need to do is find this Oracle. It's our best chance of finding Phoebe and getting out of here."

"What if this Oracle doesn't exist?" asked Leo. "Have any of you thought of that?"

"We'll cross that bridge when we get to it," said Cole.

"You seem to think you're in charge," said Piper.

"Sorry," said Cole. "Force of habit. "I'm not trying to order anyone around. And if anyone has any better ideas I'm sure we'll all be glad to hear them."

As it turned out, no one had any other ideas. Not even Margaret who knew this land better than any of them. With no other options available at the moment they all decided to seek out the Oracle. As they continued their trek north a small figure followed from a distance watching for what they would do next.

I like Jerry's world - Cole's not dead

I feel such apprehension of what is going to be coming at them, especially now that they have a mystery watcher looking in on what they are doing. I wonder if it's Gastion?? And I like that Cole is alive too! Great update, Jerry!

SIXTEEN

The group moved north for three days. They were able to find plenty to eat with Margaret locating fruits, nuts, roots, and berries for them. The few villages they did come across proved to be as subservient as the one where Stennish was. All Cole had to do was say he was demon and the villagers couldn’t do enough for them.

As they traveled, Margaret told them what she knew about the Oracle, which was precious little. In the past, the Oracle had helped the villages a great deal. It seemed there was no question she couldn’t answer. And her wisdom was legendary. In the past few decades, however, the Oracle had become more and more reclusive. Many of the villagers had even begun to believe it might not even exist, just a legend made up by the older, more superstitious demonis.

She also warned them again that there were also legends of powerful guardians who protected the Oracle. Some of those that had gone to see the Oracle had never returned. It was one of the reasons that no one had gone to the Oracle in the past few decades.

“It’s a risk we have to take,” said Piper. “We have no idea where Gastion or Phoebe are. It could take weeks or months to find them. God only knows what can happen between now and then. I can’t even bring myself to think what may have all ready happened.”

“Probably not much,” said Cole. “It wasn’t just human women Gastion was fascinated with. He was also fascinated with a lot of human traditions. Specifically courting rituals. He would want to totally convince Phoebe that they were courting before she lost her memory. So that she would willingly consent to marry him.”

“How long would this courting go on?” Paige questioned.

“That would depend on the female,” said Cole. “At least a couple of weeks. I’m pretty sure he’s still in that phase right now. Once he has her thoroughly convinced, he’ll marry her. So you don’t need to worry about anything happening between them yet.”

“I hope you’re right,” said Piper. “If he’s done anything to her. . .”

“Piper, don’t work yourself up,” said Leo, sitting on a log next to her. “You know Cole isn’t about to let anything happen to her if he can help it.”

“So it’s really true?” Margaret asked. “You and Phoebe were really married?”

“That’s right,” said Cole. “But I guess it just wasn’t meant to be. She was a Charmed One and I was half demon. Just too large an obstacle to overcome. But we had some good times.”

“Yeah, before you tried to kill us,” said Piper.

“That wasn’t totally me,” said Cole. “Most of it was the Source who had possessed me.”

“Yeah, yeah, whatever,” said Piper. “The fact is you still tried to kill us and Phoebe had to vanquish you to protect us.”

“Okay, that’s ancient history,” said Cole. “We’re here now to find and save Phoebe. Can we just let the past remain in the past?”

“That sounds fair to me,” said Paige, trying to change the subject. “Margaret, what about you? You said you were working on a spell when you got sucked into this world. Is your coven in San Francisco?”

“Yes,” said Margaret. “They probably think I was killed. My daughter was part of the coven. She’d be about your age now. I’m sure she’s moved on with her life by now.”

“Then she’ll be glad to have you back,” said Piper. “When we get back we’ll help you locate your coven and your daughter.”

“If we get back,” said Cole. “We still don’t know how to get out of this realm.”

“I’m sure if we can find the place where I arrived here we’ll be able to get back that way,” said Margaret. “We just have to find the portal that brought me here and use it to get back.”

“Well, I’m sure this Oracle can tell us how to get back,” said Piper. “From what you’ve told us it seems to know everything there is to know about this place.”

“If it will help us,” said Margaret. “There’s no guarantee it will.”

“We’ll just have to convince it to help,” said Piper.

Alone in the dark the small figure that had been following the group turned and headed north. The group would reach the Oracle the next day. The Oracle would need to be informed of them. It should reach the mountain where the Oracle resided before morning.
* * *

“Are you sure?” questioned a figure in the shadows of a mountain just north of where Piper and the others were camping.

“Very sure,” said the small figure. “I have watched them for several days. They come seeking you out. They are not natural.”

“Inform the guardians,” said the shadowy figure. “These may be the ones I have waited for all these years. Tell the guardians these beings must be tested. If they pass the test they may enter. If they fail, they are to be destroyed.”

“Understood,” said the small figure that then turned and left the chamber.

Alone in the dark the Oracle stood waiting for the party to reach it. For three decades it had waited for those who would be able to do what it needed done. Perhaps these five were those who could accomplish that task. Silently the Oracle waited to see if they would be strong enough to pass the test that was required to gain admittance to the it.
* * *

It was just past noon when the party sighted the mountain that legend held the Oracle inhabited. It seemed small for a mountain. And it seemed to be nearly impassable. From a distance there appeared no way to the cavern they could see near the top of the mountain.

“There’s supposed to be a path that leads up to the cave,” said Margaret. “It’s very treacherous and hard to negotiate. I don’t know how long it will take to get up the mountain. Like I said, the last person who went to the Oracle was more than thirty years ago. And he never returned.”

“I’ll go first,” said Leo. “As a spirit there shouldn’t be anything up there that can harm me. And I can warn you of any dangers that might be ahead.”

“Good idea,” said Cole. “Well, I suggest we get started. The sooner we get up there the quicker we can find Phoebe and get out of here.”

Slowly the party made their way up the mountain. Just as Margaret had said, it was very difficult going. They had to backtrack several times to bypass obstacles that were impassable. They had to climb over fallen trees, move around deep gorges, and claw their way through overgrown brush.

There were even a few encounters with the denizens of the mountain. Spiders, scorpions, and other equally dangerous creatures. Leo was able to warn the party of the infestations and they were able to avoid most of them. Finally they stood only a few feet from the entrance to the cavern.

“Well, I’m glad that’s over,” said Piper, sitting down to rest. “I’m not looking forward to going back through that when we leave.”

“No choice,” said Cole. “It seems to be the only way up or down the mountain. But at least we know what to expect on the way down. Now all we have to do is get in there and see if this Oracle will help us.”

“I’m afraid that isn’t going to happen,” said a voice behind them. “Unfortunately for you, your quest ends here.”

Everyone turned to see who had spoken. All except Margaret recognized the figure instantly. It wore gray colored robes but didn’t have the hood drawn. Its face was covered in tribal markings similar to those that Belthazor had. One side of its face was marked and disfigured by what must have been a horrible accident.

But it was no accident that had disfigured this creature. It had been disfigured when it had won its bid to replace the former ruler of its kind. They all stood facing a creature that couldn’t possible exist. They were facing the Source of all Evil.

NoAzMale wrote: “Unfortunately for you, your quest ends here.”

i'm sorry but I got this freaky visual of Ryan Seacrest of American Idol saying "Unfortunately for you, your journey ends here"

Uh-oh! Now they're stuck! I wonder if this is the test they have to face or if it is a bad guy stopping them from passing on?? Either way I'm hooked wondering what is going to happen next! They have to get through the guardians and to the Oracle! I am sitting on my seat wondering what is going to happen to them all! Great update, Jerry!

majiklmoon wrote:

NoAzMale wrote: “Unfortunately for you, your quest ends here.”

i'm sorry but I got this freaky visual of Ryan Seacrest of American Idol saying "Unfortunately for you, your journey ends here"

Well, Traci, I don't watch "American Idol" and have rarely even seen Ryan Seacrest except in commercials and such so I don't have a reference for your message. I'll just have to take your word on it which I'm sure is absolutely correct. Maybe I can provide some more entertainment with the rest of the story. : : : : :

SEVENTEEN

“This is impossible,” gasped Piper. “We vanquished you. You’re dead.”

“Foolish witch,” hissed the Source. “How little you truly understand your opponents. I could never be vanquished by witches, not even the famed Charmed Ones. Your supposed ‘vanquishing’ simply forced me from your world into this one. Here, I am unchallenged. There are none here who have the power to oppose me.”

“That can’t be,” said Cole. “I was also the Source. When they vanquished me I was sent to the Wasteland as all demons are when they are vanquished. I had the same power you had. This has to be some sort of trick.”

“Belthazor,” said the Source smiling, “you were the Source for only a few months. I was the Source for more than five hundred years. Surely you know that we grow more powerful the longer we exist. And I had all the power of the underworld at my disposal. In five hundred years that can add up to a great deal of power.”

“What do you want?” Paige asked.

“I would think that would be quite obvious,” said the Source. “I want to avenge myself. To make you pay for what you did to me.”

“So you plan to kill us, is that the idea?” questioned Piper.

“Oh no,” said the Source. “Your being here is a much worse punishment than simply killing you. You two shall spend the rest of your lives here as the property of a demonis. And you shall live with the knowledge that your daughter will also become the property of a demonis. All of your progeny shall live out their existence as slaves. A fitting punishment for those who dared challenge me.”

“I won’t let that happen,” said Cole. “I won’t be the slave of anyone. Here, I’m a demon. One of the elite as they have been called. And I won’t allow you to make them slaves.”

“Ah yes,” said the Source. “Join me, Belthazor. The demons of this realm do not possess power anywhere near what we possess. If you join me you can rule at my side. No one can oppose us.”

“Not likely,” said Cole. “I’m not a demon any longer. Despite what happened earlier I’m nothing like I was before. I won’t join you. I’ll do everything I can to oppose you.”

“That will be very little,” said the Source. “I see you have your White Lighter with you. Shame he is nothing more than a mere shade in this realm. Still, he will serve as an effective demonstration of the power I wield here.”

Suddenly the Source reached out and an energy ball formed in his hand. The energy ball streaked across the small clearing the party was standing in. It struck Leo and he screamed in agony. Suddenly the energy ball flashed and Leo was nowhere to be seen.

“No,” screamed Piper. “What have you done to him?”

“I’ve destroyed him,” said the Source. “Now you see the extent of my power. That is why I chose to remain here once you had ‘vanquished’ me from our world. I have more power here than I ever dreamed in our realm. And there are no witches to contend with. Here I am more than just the Source. I am a god. Unopposed by even the most powerful being here.”

“The Oracle will stop you,” said Margaret. “There is no being more powerful than the Oracle.”

“I have disposed of the Oracle,” said the Source. “Not even its power was enough to stand against me. I must admit it was more difficult than I first imagined. But in the end not even it could withstand my power.”

“You slime,” said Paige. “If you think we’re just going to stand here and let you make us slaves you have a lot to learn.”

“And how shall you stop me?” questioned the Source. “Here you have no powers. You are nothing more than gadlings whose purpose it is to serve the demonis.”

“We’ll find a way to stop you,” said Piper. “After all the years of fighting us and you still don’t understand us. We will never willing give into you.”

“You are a fool,” said the Source. “There is nothing you can do about it. I am all-powerful here. And without your powers you have no chance to oppose me. You will become slaves. And I promise you many years of torment and pain before you become the guest of honor at a donlo. And when you die you will die with the knowledge that your daughter will follow you. As will all your female progeny.”

Suddenly Paige reached down and picked up a rock from the ground. She threw it directly at the Source. He barely moved. His hand came up and the rock suddenly stopped, suspended in mid-air. Then it fell back to the ground.

“Stupid girl,” said the Source. “Do you think a mere rock could harm me? I am the Source of all Evil. I am the most powerful being in this realm. Not even Belthazor has the power to oppose me. Do you think you can oppose me?”

“I intend to try,” said Paige. “Like we said, we won’t go quietly.”

“I see,” said the Source. “Your sister will be much easier to manipulate. She will be concerned with her unborn daughter. But you do not have such a weakness. I can see I will have to deal with you differently from her.”

The Source suddenly reached out and another energy ball flew from his hand. It impacted with Paige and she vanished in agony as Leo had only moments before.

“No,” screamed Piper, looking at the scorched mark where Paige had stood only a moment before. “You monster. She couldn’t even defend herself. There was no reason to kill her.”

“Perhaps not,” said the Source. “But I found it so enjoyable. You, however, will live. I can destroy your daughter without causing harm to you. And I can make that destruction slow and painful. So if you value the life growing inside you then you won’t cause me any trouble.”

Piper stared at the Source. She knew he was right. It was one thing to risk her life against him. But she couldn’t risk her daughters’ life. Her maternal instincts would kick in and she knew that she would do whatever it took to protect her unborn child. Suddenly Cole shimmered slightly and changed form. Belthazor stood facing the Source.

“No,” bellowed Belthazor. “You have been vanquished. You are no longer the Source. I will not allow you to usurp the position that rightfully belongs to me. And I will not allow you to cause them any more distress.”

“You are as big a fool as these witches,” said the Source. “Not even your power is great enough to oppose me. Had you chosen to join me you would have been revered as a god. Now I will have to destroy you so that you do not become a problem for me.”

“Not this time,” bellowed Belthazor. “I served you once. That time is ended. Now I am the master. And it is you that shall be destroyed.”

Margaret moved over and stood next to Piper.

“You won’t harm Piper’s baby,” said Margaret. “I may not have my powers but I’ll find some way to stop you.”

The Source simply stared at the three smiling. Suddenly the Source began to fade and within seconds vanished completely. Belthazor stared at Piper and Margaret for a second and seemed to be concentrating hard. He shimmered slightly and returned to his Cole Turner personae.

Piper looked around and saw Leo and Paige standing where they had been when the Source had killed them. Margaret was also looking around in total confusion. Piper looked at Leo and then at Paige and then at Cole.

“Okay,” Piper said finally, “what the hell just happened here?”

“You have been granted audience with the Oracle,” said a voice behind them.

They all turned to find a small figure standing at the entrance to the cavern smiling at them.

EIGHTEEN

“Who are you?” demanded Piper. “And what’s going on here?”

“I’d like to know that myself,” said Paige. “When the Source attacked I suddenly found I couldn’t move or speak.”

“That’s what also happened to me,” said Leo.

“To be granted an audience with the Oracle,” said the little creature, “you must earn it. This was a test. To see if you were worthy for an audience. You have passed that test and shall have an audience with the Oracle now. Please follow me.”

The creature was no more than two feet tall. It was covered in dark gray fur and resembled some form of primate. It turned and moved into the cave. Unsure exactly what was going on, the party turned and began to follow it.

“The Oracle does not grant audience often,” said the creature. “It is an honor that you have been granted one. It has been a long time since anyone has been granted access to the Oracle.”

“So we understand,” said Cole. “We come seeking help from the Oracle.”

“I am but a servant,” said the creature. “It is my duty to bring you to the Oracle. You will speak of your quest there.”

“Well, that’s clear enough,” said Paige. “I hope this Oracle can help us. If it can’t I’m not sure what we’re going to do.”

“The Oracle can do anything,” said Margaret. “According to the legends, it’s the most powerful creature here.”

The creature stopped just outside a large cavern.

“This is the audience hall,” said the creature. “You may enter and speak your request. If the Oracle will help you then you will receive that help. If it chooses not to help then you will have to leave. I bid you good luck.”

The creature turned and moved back up the corridor they had just come down. Everyone looked at each other.

“We aren’t getting anything done out here,” said Piper. “Let’s get in there and find Phoebe.”

“Not so fast,” said Cole. “We know next to nothing about this Oracle.”

“We passed its stupid test,” said Paige. “I’m with Piper. Let’s get in there and get this over with.”

“Cole’s right,” said Leo. “From what Margaret had told us this Oracle may not be the friendly being we imagine. For all we know it’s some form of demonic force in this realm.”

“Well, there are legends of it helping people, too,” said Margaret. “But as I said, most of the stories are years old.”

“Good or not we can’t stand around here waiting,” said Piper. “We’ve come this far. I don’t see we have much choice.”

“All I’m saying is we need to be careful,” said Cole.

“We will be,” said Paige. “Now let’s get this over with.”

Cautiously the five entered the cavern. Only a single light shined in the cavern illuminating a spot on the floor. It was impossible to see just how large the cavern was. Outside the circle of light on the floor the entire area was pitch black.

They stopped just outside the circle of light. There were no sounds in the cavern, no movement that might indicate if anyone – or anything – else might be there. They all stood looking around for a moment.

“I guess we’re supposed to step into that lighted area,” said Piper. “Well, when in Rome, as the saying goes.”

Cautiously everyone moved into the lighted area. They all tensed for a moment not sure exactly what to expect. When nothing happened they relaxed slightly. They waited for several moments but nothing happened.

“Okay, so now what?” Paige asked. “Where’s this Oracle that’s supposed to do all these miraculous things.”

“I am here,” said a feminine voice from the darkness. “You are impatient beings.”

“We’ve come a long way,” said Piper into the darkness. “We’ve been through a hell of a lot and we just want to get this over with and go home. We were told you could help us.”

“Perhaps,” said the voice. “You have passed the test and been granted audience. I will hear your pleadings.”

The party could hear footsteps coming from the darkness. They all turned in the direction the footsteps came from waiting. The steps grew louder indicating the being – or whatever it was – was drawing closer. Suddenly a figure entered the circle of light opposite them. Everyone except Paige and Margaret stared in amazement at the figure.

Piper, Leo, and Cole all recognized the figure. It was a female who appeared to be just slightly older than Piper. She stood smiling at the group. For a moment no one spoke. Finally Piper found her voice and continued to stare at the figure.

“Prue?” questioned Piper as she stood staring at her older sister.

Oh cool!!! And may I add wow!! When I read that Leo and Paige had both died I was inwardly yelling "No!" but I was relieved to see them back again after the creature appeared that let them in on the Oracle's agreement to have a meeting. I think you ended it best with the utter suspense of Prue's appearance. Is she the Oracle???? Excellent updates, Jerry!

NINETEEN

“Prue,” cried Piper, tears coming to her eyes.

She began to move toward her older sister, almost involuntarily. Cole reached out and took her by the arm keeping her from moving to the figure in front of them.

“Piper, that’s not Prue,” said Cole. “I can’t explain it but I know that’s not your sister.”

“You demon friend if correct,” said Prue. “I have taken this form because you are familiar with it. You are comfortable with it. It holds meaning for you. It is my hope that by taking this form it will help to alleviate some of your apprehension.”

“It’s just that you look so much like her,” said Piper. “And she’s been gone a long time.”

“I may take whatever form I choose,” said Prue. “Taking the form of a loved one often puts those who come to me at ease.”

“So, you can read our minds?” Paige asked. “That’s the only way you’d know what Prue looked like.”

“Not exactly,” said Prue. “I can sense things in other beings. My power allows them to see me in whatever form is most appealing. You sister thinks of this form quite often. It holds a special place for her.”

“She was my sister,” said Piper. “She helped hold our family together.”

“And now she is gone,” said Prue. “As is the natural order. The old must give way to the new.”

“Piper,” said Leo, “Phoebe. We came here to find Phoebe, remember?”

“Yes,” said Piper. “We were told that you know everything that goes on in this realm.”

“That is one of my functions,” said Prue.

“Then you must know about Gastion,” said Cole. “You know I’m a demon so you must also be aware that he is, too.”

“Yes,” said Prue. “The one you call Gastion calls himself Lemteck in this realm.”

“Then you must also know he has our sister,” said Piper. “He kidnapped her from our house and brought her here. We want her back.”

“And you have sought me out to aid you in this matter,” said Prue.

“Yes,” said Paige. “We were told you’d know where she is. And how to get back to our own realm.”

“Then you must choose,” said Prue, glancing slightly at Margaret. “You came to this place together. You are allowed one question. If I answer your question I may ask one favor in return.”

“What?” Leo questioned. “Only one question. That hardly seems fair.”

“All who come seeking my aid have many questions,” said Prue. “All receive the same assistance. I will answer one question. But only one.”

“Well,” said Piper, “I guess the most important thing is that we find Phoebe. Once we do we can find out own way home.”

“What if we can’t?” Paige asked. “It might be easier to find Phoebe than finding a portal back to our own realm.”

“Gastion will know how to get back,” said Cole. “Besides, we can locate the portal that brought Margaret here and use it to get back.”

“You labor under a false impression,” said Prue.

“What do you mean?” Leo asked.

“The one you call Gastion is demon,” said Prue. “His power allows him to move between realms. But it will be of no use to you. He may move only himself; no one else. And the portals to this realm work in only one direction. You may enter through one or leave through one. You may not do both.”

“You mean we can’t use the portal that brought Margaret here to get back?” Piper asked.

“That is correct,” said Prue.

“Which means,” said Cole, “that we have no way of knowing how to get back. And it could take years to find one of these portals. Or never. And we’d be trapped here forever.”

“So that means we have a choice to make,” said Piper. “Get a way out of this place and risk never finding Phoebe.”

“Or find Phoebe and be stuck here forever,” said Paige. “And probably end up the property of some demonis. And eventually the guest of honor at one of their donlos.”

TWENTY

“So we can either find Phoebe or find a way back home,” said Piper. “I don’t like the options.”

“I can assist in only one matter,” said Prue.

“But why do we only get one question?” Paige asked. “There are five of us. Shouldn’t we each get a question?”

“You came to this place together,” said Prue, glancing again at Margaret. “You may ask one question only.”

“Okay,” said Piper, “the most important thing is that we find Phoebe. We can find a way out of here somehow.”

“What if we can’t?” Cole asked. “The Oracle said that Gastion could leave because of his power. Presumably I can do the same thing if I change to Belthazor. But I can’t take any of you with me. Wouldn’t it be easier to find Phoebe than to try and find a way out of here?”

“Phoebe could be anywhere,” said Piper. “We have no idea how big this realm is. We could spend years looking for her. And we might never find her. I’m sure there are other people here like Margaret. People who know things. They can help us find a way out.”

“Besides,” said Paige, “Gastion found a way out. We will, too. I’m with Piper. First we find Phoebe. Then we look for a way home.”

“Well,” said Leo, “we did come to find Phoebe. And the girls can be pretty resourceful when they want to be. And maybe Gastion knows a way out of here. You did say he’d been here about thirty years.”

“It’s your decision,” Cole said to Piper. “Whatever you decide, I’ll back you.”

“Thanks,” said Piper. She turned to Prue. “I want to know where my sister is.”

“Travel west for three and a half days,” said Prue. “You will come to a village. There you will find the one you call Gastion. He has taken your sister there. They are to be married in five days.”

“Five days?” questioned Paige. “Then we’d better get there and stop it.”

“That may not be easy,” said Cole. “I suspect that Gastion has been using his secretions to keep Phoebe’s memories suppressed. She’ll be under the impression that things are exactly what he’s told her they are, whatever that is. She probably won’t even trust you since she won’t know you.”

“One thing at a time,” said Piper. “The Oracle said it would take four days to get there. That leaves us one day to do something about it.” She turned back to Prue. “Thank you. We appreciate the help.”

“Go in peace,” said the Oracle.

The party turned and began to head toward the exit. They hadn’t traveled more than a few feet when Margaret suddenly stopped.

“She said we came to this place together,” said Margaret.

“Yeah, so?” questioned Piper.

“Well, did she mean this plane of existence or this cavern?”

“Gee, I don’t know,” said Paige.

Margaret turned back to the Oracle who was still standing inside the circle of light.

“May I ask a question?” Margaret.

“Do you seek assistance?” Prue asked.

“Simply clarification,” said Margaret.

“Then you may ask your question,” said Prue.

“You said we had come to this place together,” Margaret said. “Did you mean this realm or this cavern?”

“They are one and the same,” said Prue. “This cavern exists because of this realm. Without this cavern, this realm would not exist.”

“Okay,” said Margaret, “except I didn’t come to this realm with them. I’ve been here for ten years.”

“Then you are not of them,” said Prue. “You did not come with them.”

“Does that mean I can ask for help, too?” Margaret asked.

“All who are granted audience may ask for help,” said Prue.

“Then I want to know the way back home,” said Margaret. “How do I get back where I belong?”

Prue stood looking at them for a moment. She seemed to be thinking.

“The answer stands before you,” said Prue. “When the joining is complete, and the circle is formed, you will return to the place you belong.”

“What does that mean?” Cole asked.

“Time will reveal the answer,” said Prue. “It is all I can tell you.”

“What joining?” Piper questioned. “Joining of what? And what circle?”

“As I said,” said Prue, “time will reveal the answer. However, for my assistance I will ask one thing of you.”

“Well, I guess we can’t say no,” said Paige. “Even if your answers are couched in riddles.”

“The one you call Gastion,” said Prue. “He is not natural to this realm. He subverts the natural order here. Just as you subvert the natural order. When you have returned to your realm, I ask that you seal the portal that brought you here. So that none may ever come here again. So that the natural order may be restored.”

“Assuming we can figure out this riddle and get back home,” said Cole, “I’ll see what I can do about closing the portal.”

“Thank you,” said Prue. “That will help to restore the natural order in this realm. And it will prevent further disorder in the future.”

With nothing left to do the five turned and walked out of the cavern. When they reached the entrance the same creature that had led them in was waiting for them. In one corner of the entrance were several blankets and some food.

“The Oracle has allowed you to remain here in the safety of this cavern for the night,” said the creature. “When the sun rises in the morning you will find your way easier than when you came here.”

Without another word the small creature turned and disappeared into the cavern.

Another great couple of updates, Jerry! I am glad that the Oracle spoke with them and gave them at least something to go on with finding Phoebe and a clue to Margaret about how to get back home. Hopefully when they reach Phoebe and get her to see they are her sisters they can join forces and find a way out of there!

TWENTY-ONE

The party enjoyed a restful night with no interruptions. Leo kept watch since he was a spirit and didn’t require sleep as the others did. Still, when they awoke the next morning he told them that the night had passed uneventfully.

Just as the strange creature had promised, their trip down the mountain took less than half a day. It was a peaceful walk without any of the obstacles they had encountered the previous day. Once they reached the base of the mountain they turned west just as the Oracle had said.

They traveled for three and a half days just as the Oracle had told them. As before they had to rely on fruits, vegetables, roots, and berries that Margaret could find for them. And just as before she had no trouble finding them.

The few villages they came across were friendly and accommodating. Especially when Cole mentioned that he was demon. No one questioned him. They simply took his word for it. And most bent over backwards to cater to his every whim. At the end of the fourth day they topped a hill and saw a small village below. From the looks of the village this was the one they were looking for. It seemed to be festively decorated. The decorations were crude but were obviously designed for a celebration.

“This looks like the place,” said Piper. “Now, let’s find Phoebe and get the hell out of this place.”

“Not so fast,” said Cole. “We have no idea where she is. And don’t forget that Gastion has been using his secretions to keep her memories suppressed. She’s not likely to remember or trust you.”

“What do you suggest?” Paige asked.

“Well the ceremony isn’t supposed to take place until tomorrow,” said Cole. “I think it’s best if we check the place out. Gastion may have other demons helping him. Without our powers we could be at a distinct disadvantage.”

“You still have your powers,” said Piper. “Even if it is only in your Belthazor form.”

“That’s not an option,” said Cole. “Every time I change it’s harder to change back. I can’t risk changing again. Belthazor will take over completely and I won’t be able to protect you.”

“Okay,” said Paige, “we should be able to get a place to stay. And if this celebration is as big as it looks we shouldn’t have any trouble finding out about it.”

“The marriage of a demon is always a very big event,” said Margaret. “The entire village will turn out for it. Especially if Gastion is the demon living in this village. All of the villagers will want to impress him to gain his favor.”

“Let’s just slip in quietly,” said Cole. “We don’t want to give Gastion any advance knowledge that we’re here. The element of surprise is our best weapon right now.”

The five moved cautiously into the village. Leo remained invisible so as not to alarm any of the villagers. There was a boarding house of sorts on the edge of town and they were able to get some rooms there. Cole made no mention of the fact that he was demon only that they had come for the wedding.

They spent the rest of the day looking around the village and asking questions. Most of the villagers were more than happy to answer their questions. They discovered that the wedding was to take place the next day at precisely noon. It would be held in the town square where all the villagers would be able to attend. And Gastion was introducing a new marriage ritual. One, from the descriptions, sounded very reminiscent of a human wedding.

“That would be in keeping with his fascination with human rituals,” said Cole.

“Then I guess we wait until noon tomorrow,” said Piper. “Anyone have any suggestions how we go about saving Phoebe and getting out of this village without resorting to magic?”

“I’ll try to bluff Gastion,” said Cole. “Maybe my being here will be enough to make him back down.”

“What if that doesn’t work?” asked Paige.

“We always have Leo,” said Phoebe. “He can just materialize by Phoebe like he did with Margaret. Then we convince the villages he’s an evil omen and they have to send Phoebe away.”

“That may not work,” said Margaret. “With Gastion here they’ll be looking to him for protection. And from what you’ve told me, he’s not likely to back down easily.”

“We’ll just have to play it by ear,” said Leo. “But I do have a suggestion. While Cole is distracting Gastion, Piper and Paige can try to quietly slip Phoebe out of the square. If we have to we can tie her up until the secretions that Gastion has been using have worn off and she remembers who we are.”

“How long will that take?” Piper asked.

“I’m not sure,” said Cole. “But it’s worth a try. I’ll confront Gastion and you two get her out of the square. You can bring her back here. The rest of us will keep Gastion and the villagers busy while you do. After that we’ll just have to see what happens.”

“Sounds like a plan to me,” said Paige.

With their plans set for the next day the group settled in to get some sleep. Their plans rarely went as predicted and they would need to be ready if, and when, something went wrong.

TWENTY-TWO

The next day dawned just as bright and cloudless as the rest of the days in this realm. It was just after sunup when the owner of the boarding house they were staying in woke them up. The festivities planned for the day were numerous and the entire village was bustling with activity.

Last minute preparations were being made for the wedding. By noon most of the villagers were gathering in the village square. Cole and Margaret took up positions near the back of the crowd. Piper and Paige took up positions near the platform that had been constructed to one side of the square. Margaret told them that was where Phoebe and the wedding party would be. Leo was invisible but waited near Cole and Margaret just in case they needed some “supernatural” distraction.

It was just a few minutes before noon when the wedding party stepped up onto the platform. One was obviously Gastion. He was in his demonic form that they all recognized from the spell Paige had cast. Standing to one side and slightly behind Gastion were Phoebe and three attendants. All of the attendants were demonis females.

On the platform near the center on the front was a makeshift podium. Standing behind the podium was a male demonis dressed in official-looking robes. He was wearing a medallion that identified him as some form of authority. Margaret said he was what passed for a mayor in this realm. He would be the one officiating at the wedding.

“Fellow villagers,” announced the mayor. “We are gathered here today to celebrate the union of our most magnificent leader, Lemteck, and his bride, Menashaw. This is a glorious day for our village. We wish for great tidings and a long life for the beloved couple.

“Lemteck. You have brought your bride before us so that we may witness this wondrous union. You honor us. I ask you now in the presence of all these witnesses. Do you accept the union between you and Menashaw? A union that shall bind you so long as you both live?”

“I accept the union,” said Gastion.

`”We witness your acceptance of this union,” said the mayor. “By her appearance here today, Menashaw demonstrates her acceptance of this union. As overseer of this ceremony it is my very distinct honor to proclaim them bound, now and for all time. May their union provide them with many years of happiness and be fruitful.”

“Excuse me,” said Cole. “What happened to ‘if anyone knows why they shouldn’t be married’? Isn’t that supposed to be part of the ceremony?”

“Who dares interrupt the ceremony?” demanded the mayor. “Such insolence and disrespect will not be tolerated.”

“Oh, I think it will be,” said Cole, moving to the front of the crowd. “Hello, Gastion. It’s been a long time.”

“Belthazor?” questioned Gastion. “Can it truly be you? I had heard you vanquished.”

“I got better,” said Cole. “Nice setup you have here. Undisputed ruler of this little village. I guess that’s better than the Émigré you were banished to.”

“You have no idea,” said Gastion. “Here, there is no one to oppose me. They all worship me nearly as a deity. It’s so much better than the petty squabbles and bickering of the underworld.”

“Yeah, well, you’ve made one small miscalculation,” said Cole. “The human you’ve kidnapped is no ordinary human. She’s a Charmed One. And my ex-wife.”

“A Charmed One?” questioned Gastion. “How simply wonderful. I had no idea. It does explain some things, though.”

As Cole and Gastion were talking, Piper and Paige moved up behind Phoebe. Piper reached out and took Phoebe by the arm.

“Phoebe, it’s me, Piper,” said Piper. “Come on, let’s get you out of here.”

“Who are you?” demanded Phoebe pulling away from Piper. “Lemteck, what’s going on here? Who are these people?”

“Paige, a little help here,” said Piper.

“So, that’s what you’re doing here,” exclaimed Gastion. “You’ve come to steal my bride from me. I’m not going to let that happen.”

“We’ve just come to return Phoebe to where she belongs,” said Cole. “You’d be wise not to fight me on this, Gastion. You wouldn’t like the outcome.”

“Lemteck,” asked the mayor, “who are these gadlings? Why do they dare interrupt this ceremony?”

“I’m no gadling,” said Cole. “I’m a demon just like Gastion. And the gadling he’s about to marry isn’t here of her own accord. He kidnapped her and I’ve come to take her home.”

“Stay out of this, Prothick,” said Gastion. “This is my insult. I’ll handle it.”

“As you wish, Master,” said the mayor.

As the three were talking Paige moved up and grabbed Phoebe by the arm. Piper also reached out and took her by the other arm intent on dragging her kicking and screaming, if necessary, from the platform. The second Piper and Paige touched Phoebe all three were covered in a glow. Phoebe shook her head a couple of times and looked around.

“Piper?” questioned Phoebe. “Paige? What’s going on? Where am I? And what the hell is this I’m wearing?”

“No,” screamed Gastion. “I won’t let you ruin this. I didn’t know she was a Charmed One when I took her. Now that I know I cannot allow you to take her. She will provide me with a powerful heir.”

“Give it up, Gastion,” said Cole. “You could never stand up against me. Don’t make me do something you’ll regret later.”

“You fool,” said Gastion. “You think I’m a total dupe? Your human half has made you weak. The fact that you have not assumed your demonic form proves that. You try to suppress it. I, on the other hand, embrace my demonic heritage. It gives me great power. It may be true that in the past you were more powerful than I. But that was on the mortal realm. Here, it is I who am the more powerful.”

“Don’t press it,” said Cole. “I’m trying to give you the option to relinquish her without being vanquished. But I won’t ask again.”

Suddenly, Gastion formed a fireball and cast it at Cole. The weapon struck Cole forcing him back. Those gathered for the wedding began to scramble for safety out of the way of the opponents.

“You’re warning me?” said Gastion. “That proves your weakness. No true demon would do such a thing. It is not our way. If you had truly planned to take her by force we would not be having this discussion. You would have vanquished me and taken her. And we both know that in your human form you have no powers.”

Gastion cast another fireball at Cole knocking him to the ground again. Normally, one of the weapons should have vanquished a non-magical being. In his human form Cole had no demonic powers and was, for all intents and purposes, a non-magical being. His half demonic DNA was affording him some protection. But that protection wouldn’t last long. Gastion cast another fireball at Cole.

“I know of your past, Belthazor,” said Gastion. “How you were sent by the Triad to vanquish these sisters. How you fell in love. Imagine, a demon falling in love. That love has weakened you. Once you were feared throughout the underworld. Now, a witch has taken that from you. Made you one of them. A weak, pathetic human.”

Gastion cast another fireball at Cole knocking him to the ground. Cole tried to rise but was weakened too much. The attacks by Gastion were taking their toll. The protection afforded by his half demonic was nearly gone. Cole knew that one more attack would finish him. Gastion formed another fireball and raised his hand.

“It’s a shame,” said Gastion. “Together, we could have ruled this realm. Now, you will die as a weak pathetic human.”

Gastion just smiled and cast the fireball at Cole, content that his opponent was about to be vanquished.

TWENTY-THREE

The fireball flew through the air at Cole who lay on the ground defenseless. Just before the weapon struck, Cole shimmered slightly. Almost instantly he changed form. In his place lay Belthazor. The fireball struck the demon who howled in pain. In an instant Belthazor was on his feet. He towered over Gastion.

“I am no human,” howled Belthazor. “You call me weak? I was the favored of the Source. I was the Source. I have been to the Wasteland and returned unharmed. In the mortal realm I am invulnerable. And I will not be vanquished by the likes of you.”

Belthazor formed a fireball and cast it at Gastion. The lesser demon was forced back by the attack. Vainly Gastion attacked again with his own fireball. Belthazor simply cast a fireball and the two impacted between the two demons obliterating each other.

“You are the fool, Gastion,” said Belthazor. “You were banished by the Source and with good reason. Your foolish obsession with human females. Yes, Cole Turner fell in love with a human. He is human. He has that failing. But I have no such failing. I care nothing for them or any humans. You have challenged me. Now, learn the fate of all those who would challenge the mighty Belthazor.”

Belthazor cast another fireball forcing Gastion back again. Margaret and the sisters could do nothing but stand and watch as the two demons battled each other. Gastion made several more attacks against Belthazor but the larger demon weathered the attacks, returning his own. Gastion was quickly loosing the battle and he knew it.

“You are nothing but a pathetic Carack demon,” howled Belthazor. “You are not even worthy to be compared to me. You said I was feared in the underworld. I still am. All demons fear and honor me. They bow to me as they should. Even those of your kind dare not challenge me. I am the mighty Belthazor. And those who stand against me find that I am not to be trifled with.”

Belthazor cast several more fireballs at Gastion forcing the lesser demon back even farther. He was cut and bleeding in a dozen places. Weakly he raised his hand in a futile attempt to protect against the vicious attacks of his opponent. Suddenly Belthazor cast one last fireball and Gastion was vanquished in a conflagration.

Belthazor howled in victory. His opponent was vanquished. He spun to face the sisters who stood only a few feet away. His eyes narrowed slightly as his gaze fell on them. Slowly he began to advance on them.

“I have vanquished the fool who would oppose me,” he said slowly and deliberately. “But he was right about one thing. You have cost me in the underworld. I was sent to destroy you and in a moment of weakness you took from me all that I had worked to gain.

“Now I will rectify that situation. I will destroy you as I should have all those years ago. I will restore my reputation and once again be feared and respected as I was. All demons will know that I have vanquished the Charmed Ones. And you will no longer be a threat to those who serve evil.”

Belthazor advanced on the sisters’ anger flashing in his eyes. They could do nothing but move away from him. Without their powers they were unable to stand against him or even defend against his attacks. In a moment he would finish what he had originally been sent to do. He would destroy the most powerful force for good in the world.

“No,” said Phoebe, suddenly moving forward. “I don’t know exactly what’s going on but I do know one thing. You’re in there somewhere, Cole. You claim you love me. If I ever meant anything to you then fight this. Don’t let him win.”

Belthazor stopped and looked at Phoebe. There was a strange look on his face.

“You plead for your life,” said Belthazor. “How human of you. It will do you no good, witch. I will finish what I started. I will destroy you as I was sent to do.”

“No, you won’t,” said Phoebe. “Cole Turner is part of you. Whether you like it or not – whether you admit it or not – you’re half human. And that half won’t let you destroy us. Cole, I know you’re in there. Fight him. Don’t let him defeat you. I know you can do it. Regardless of what might have happened you’re strong. You can stop this. I know you can.”

Belthazor stood looking at Phoebe. There was a look in his eye that only Phoebe recognized. A look she had often seen in Cole’s eye. She knew she was getting through to him. No matter how strong Belthazor was, she knew Cole was stronger. He only had to fight to regain control.

Suddenly Belthazor shimmered slightly and changed form. Cole now stood where Belthazor stood only moments before. He fell to his knees, holding himself up with his arms. His breathing was long and labored.

“That was too hard,” gasped Cole. “I didn’t think I could do it. Thanks, Phoebe. Belthazor is so powerful here I have almost no control over him. But thanks to you I was able to overcome him. This time. I don’t think I could do it again.”

“We’d better get out of this village,” said Piper. “The villagers are stunned right now by what happened. But I don’t know how long that’s going to last. I say we get out of here while we can.”

“That’s a good idea,” said Margaret. “You’ve just destroyed their leader. I’m not sure how they’re going to react.”

Helping Cole to his feet everyone turned and headed out of the village, glancing over their shoulders periodically to see if they were being followed.

TWENTY-FOUR

They made camp that night in a small grove of trees several miles from the village. Leo had kept an eye out for any villagers that might come after them. No one seemed to be following them. After a while they all decided that the villagers wouldn’t be coming after them. Cole was a demon and none of them could stand up to him.

“What is this thing I’m wearing?” asked Phoebe as they rested for the night.

“It’s a traditional wedding gown,” said Margaret. “At least in this realm it is.”

“Okay, what’s going on?” asked Phoebe. “The last thing I remember was a knock at the door. The next thing I know I’m standing on that platform with Piper and Paige standing next to me. And Cole is facing off against another demon.”

They told Phoebe everything that had happened. She sat listening to them as they told of what they had gone through to get to her.

“I vaguely remember something about a man asking to use the phone,” she said. “Something about his car breaking down and he wanted to call the auto club. After that I don’t remember anything.”

“You probably won’t,” said Cole. “The secretions of a Carack demon can cause some permanent short term memory loss. Nothing serious. Just the few minutes before and after the attack. Other than that you should be fine.”

“Thanks,” said Phoebe, looking at Cole. “You agreed to help find me?”

“I didn’t have much of a choice,” said Cole. “I couldn’t leave you here alone. And it was clear they didn’t know what was going on.”

“I appreciate it,” said Phoebe.

“What I don’t understand,” Paige said, “is how you suddenly got your memories back. We didn’t do anything. We couldn’t. We don’t have any magic here.”

“It must be the Power of Three,” said Leo. “Individually, you’re just three witches. But together you have the Power of Three. That’s stronger than even most demons. I guess Gastions' secretions couldn’t withstand that.”

“Okay,” said Piper, “we’ve found Phoebe. Now we have to find a way back home. The Oracle said some kind of joining would get us home. And something about a circle. But I haven’t been able to figure out what it meant by that.”

“It also said that time would reveal the answer,” said Paige. “But it hasn’t done anything. We’re no closer to solving this riddle than we were after we saw the Oracle.”

“Maybe not,” said Cole. “I’ve been thinking. In a way, when you use the Power of Three, you join your powers together. No other witches can do that. It’s what broke Gastions' hold over Phoebe.”

“Yeah, so?” questioned Piper.

“Well,” said Cole, “maybe that’s what the Oracle meant. Maybe by joining your power you can open a portal home. That’s also what it meant by time revealing the answer. Without Phoebe, there is no Power of Three. It took time to get to her. Now we know that some form of magic happens when the three of you touch.”

“He has a point,” said Leo. “Nothing happened until Piper and Paige both touched Phoebe at the same time. Maybe that somehow gives you access to your powers.”

“It’s worth a shot,” said Piper. “Come on, guys. Let’s give it a try.”

Piper took Phoebe’s hand and Phoebe took Paige’s hand. As before they all glowed slightly. But nothing seemed to happen. Piper tried to use her explosive power on a nearby rock but nothing happened. And Paige was unable to orb anything. The glow didn’t seem to do anything.

“I don’t understand it,” said Piper. “I could feel the power in me. Why couldn’t we use it?”

“I don’t know,” said Paige. “I could feel it, too. But when I tried to use it, nothing.”

“Maybe we aren’t doing it right,” suggested Phoebe. “Didn’t you say this Oracle said something about a circle?”

“Yes,” said Margaret. “It said when the joining was complete and the circle was formed we’d be able to get home.”

“Well,” said Paige, “I guess that means we have to form a circle.”

“In a way, that makes sense,” said Cole. “Just touching must combine your power. But that’s only half of it. It activates your power something like turning on a generator. But the power is unfocused. If you form a circle, that might be what allows you to use your power.”

“It’s worth a try,” said Piper. “Okay, let’s form a circle.”

Piper reached out and took Phoebe and Paige’s hands. Then Paige reached out and took Phoebe’s hand. The glow began again only this time it began to grow in intensity. Suddenly Piper pulled her hand away from Phoebe.

“What are you doing?” asked Phoebe. “It was working. I could feel it.”

“Me, too,” said Paige.

“So could I,” said Piper. “But it was only affecting us. Cole, Leo, and Margaret weren’t being affected by it. Which means they would have been left behind.”

“You have a point,” said Cole. “What if we all held hands?”

“I don’t think that will work,” said Piper. “Unless the three of us are touching I don’t think we can generate the power we need. I have an idea, though. The three of you stand between us. We’ll form the circle around you. That should cover all of us.”

“It’s worth a shot,” said Leo.

Cole, Leo, and Margaret moved over and stood between the sisters. Once again the girls reached out taking each other’s hands. The glow began as before but this time it encompassed all of them. Piper, Phoebe, and Paige all concentrated on returning to their own realm. As they did the intensity of the glow increased and then suddenly flashed. When the light subsided, the countryside was empty. They were nowhere to be seen.