Gone But Not Forgotten

An original Charmed fan fiction.
Written by Kathryn Wild and Chad Moore.

Disclaimer
We only own the story. All other recognizable characters are owned by Spelling Television and were created by Constance M. Burge. Please don't sue, we are only borrowing them.

PART ONE

Piper felt the steam waft into her face. Pulling back her long, silky hair she wrinkled her nose from the smell. If she had to cook oatmeal one more time this week, she would scream! Phoebe was craving it like mad, and begged for it every morning. Saying that only Piper could fix it just the way she liked it. Piper sighed as she stirred the pot, making sure that the mixture didn't stick. It was still so hard to believe that her baby sister was nearly four months pregnant! Both Prue and Phoebe had joked that Piper and Leo would be the first to get married and have children. In a way, Piper believed it was probably true.

She was broken out of her thoughts by the sound of Phoebe coming down stairs. "Is that oatmeal I smell?" Phoebe asked.

"How are you feeling this morning, Pheebs?"

Phoebe marched over and took the spoon from Piper's hand, sampling her breakfast. "Ravenous!"

Piper's eyes widened. Only last night, Phoebe had been up sick beyond belief. This morning, she positively glowed. The front of her pajamas extending from her small belly.

"Just sit down and I'll fix you a bowl," Piper told her, swatting her hands away. "You'll burn your mouth!"

"Okay, okay." Phoebe replied in a childlike voice, taking a seat at the table.

"Were you able to get any sleep last night?" Piper asked, dishing out a bowl.

"I finally dropped off around 3 a.m. My back's still aching though," Phoebe answered, digging quickly into the meal. "I tried writing a spell to help with the morning sickness, but I couldn't finish."

"That's good," Piper said, crossing her arms. "Vanquishing morning sickness definitely falls under the category of personal gain."

"I'll just have to find a way to write around that." Phoebe told her, smiling. She looked around the kitchen. "Where's Prue?"

Piper sipped on a cup of coffee. "She had that new photo assignment this morning, remember?"

"Oh yeah." Phoebe mumbled through a mouthful of oatmeal.

"Which reminds me," Piper began. "Will you be alright if I go into town?"

"Of course!" Phoebe said. "Besides the back, I'm feeling much better."

"Well, I need to pick up a few things and then come home and get ready to open the club." Piper explained.

"Go ahead. I'll be fine," Phoebe told her. She looked down as Kit brushed against her legs. Reaching down, Phoebe picked her up. "Kit will look after me while you and Prue are out." Kit meowed in response.

Piper wrapped up in a jacket and took the keys from her purse. "If you're sure. Prue should be back before noon." She leaned down and kissed Phoebe on the forehead. "Love 'ya, sweetie!"

"I love you, too!" Phoebe said.

"And don't write any spells while we're gone!" Piper called, halfway out of the door.

"Get out of here!" Phoebe shot back, laughing. When the door closed, Phoebe put Kit down and leaned back in the chair. Resting her hands on her stomach, she thought about how everything had changed so dramatically this year. She had slowly come to accept what happened with Nick. Prue was still very uneasy about the baby, Phoebe could tell. It was important that she put Nick behind them and concentrate on the new life growing inside of her . . .

* * * * *

Phoebe awoke from a dream about giant lollipops and floating in clouds as she heard the front door close.

"Piper? Pheebs? Anybody home?" Prue called.

"In here!" Phoebe answered back.

Prue trudged into the parlour and found Phoebe lying on the sofa, a quilt thrown over her. "Hey!"

"How did it go?" Phoebe asked, sleepily.

"Great!" Prue said, unshouldering her camera bag. "These babies will definitely make the cover of the magazine."

"I can't wait to see them." Phoebe offered, rubbing her eyes.

"How are you feeling?" Prue asked.

"Tired! For some reason, Piper's oatmeal wipes me out." Phoebe said, lying back down.

Prue took the camera from her bag, "I'll let you go back to sleep while I get to work developing these prints."

Looking up, she saw that Phoebe had drifted back to sleep. Shaking her head, Prue walked over and covered Phoebe with the quilt before heading down into the basement.

* * * * *

Taking a sharp turn to avoid oncoming traffic, Piper drove the family car downtown. She had just about everything on her list taken care of. Looking at the clock, she saw that it was a little after 12. 'Hopefully, Prue's back,' she thought. She was starting to really worry about Phoebe. Her late night morning sicknesses were becoming more and more frequent.

Stopping at a red light, Piper checked her list and saw one more place she needed to go before heading home. Although her thoughts were with Phoebe, it felt good to be out. Leo was on a mission for 'Them', and the only time she had been out was to manage P3.

Piper carried on her way as the light turned green. She shivered, feeling a little chill. Turning up the heater, she couldn't shake the odd sensation. 'I need to find something here,' she told herself, then shook her head, wondering where that thought had sprung from. Taking her time as she went by the little shops, she noticed one tucked away in a nook.

Parking the car, Piper got out and walked down the sidewalk past the other shops, cafes and people. She found herself standing before a quaint little building. A wooden sign above the door read in italics: "TODD'S ANTIQUES".

Piper put her hand on the doorknob, then stopped. 'What am I doing here?' she asked herself. Before she knew it, she had opened the door and gone inside. The little bell above still tinkling. It was a beautiful store, full of old furnishings, objet d'art, paintings and oriental rugs. The sweet smell of incense hung in the air. 'I wish Leo were here to see this,' Piper thought, wonderingly.

"May I help you?" A kindly voice asked.

Startled, Piper turned to see an elderly gentleman approaching her from behind a glass topped table. "Hi, I ah..." she stuttered. "I'm just looking," she said, really not understanding what had drawn her to this store in the first place.

"Well, if you need any help, please let me know," the man replied.

"I will." Piper answered distractedly, walking between the aisles. She paused every so often to examine a few pieces, in awe of what she was seeing. It was the kind of merchandise Prue would have killed for when she worked at Bucklands. She soon found herself looking at the rich tapestries against a far wall. 'One of these would be perfect for the Manor,' Piper thought, considering buying one. Just then, one of the tapestries fell.

"Oh no!" Piper exclaimed, quickly scooping it up. Thankfully, the owner hadn't noticed. When she looked up again, she noticed that there were some paintings on the wall that had been hidden. Going through the stack, she saw a couple of stunning landscapes. The last painting . . . 'This is the one I want.'

Piper found herself at the glass table where the owner had an antique cash register. "Are you ready, young lady?" he asked.

"Yes, sir," Piper said, staring at the artwork in her hands.

The old man took the painting, "Ah, yes. I almost forgot about this one. It will be $200."

Piper handed him a credit card and watched as he wrapped the painting in brown paper. She felt relief wash over her. The owner finished sealing the portrait . . . A portait of a beautiful young blonde woman with blazing blue eyes . . .

PART TWO

Prue made her way upstairs to see her baby sister fast asleep. The cover had fallen off her, Prue put the quilt back over her and took her place in a near by seat. She started to look through the photographs she had taken. Suddenly she realized that she had even thought what Phoebe's baby would look like. Maybe it was because she didn't expect Phoebe's baby to get that far, she kept expecting something to happen. It was just the fact that she couldn't picture her little sister with a baby, it was Nick. Nick couldn't possibly be the father of a child.

Phoebe woke up and looked over to her older sister. She was relieved that she was there, but couldn't get over the fact she wanted some of independence back. Her sisters were by her side almost 24 - 7.

"You feeling anymore awake now?" Prue asked.

"A little," Phoebe yawned. "So, what are your photos like?"

Prue handed them over. "Watch your fingers," she warned.

"I know," Phoebe muttered looking through the pictures. "These are really good!"

"Don't act so surprised," Prue told her.

Phoebe smiled, "I didn't mean it like that. Hey, do you want a drink?"

"I'll get it for you," Prue offered.

Phoebe started to get up, "It's okay. I can manage, I'm a big girl."

"Well, humor me and let me do it," Prue told her.

Piper walked back into the Manor, and put the portrait in the hallway. She looked around for her older sister. Prue would kill her if she knew that she had left Phoebe alone.

"Prue are you home?" She questioned.

"In the kitchen." Came back the reply.

Piper made her way into the kitchen and took a deep breath. "Hey there."

"Where've you been?" Prue asked.

"Just out to pick up a couple of things. Phoebe will be fine. People get pregnant every day of the week, and nothing happens to them," Piper told her.

"This is different. Phoebe's a Charmed One and Nick was evil. Something's going to happen," Prue told her.

"Maybe, but thinking like that is not going to stop it," Piper started.

"But, it will help you be prepared," Prue told her.

"And she'll be able to tell what you're thinking," Piper lectured her.

"I still think we should be prepared," Prue told her.

"Prepared for what?" Phoebe asked, coming into the kitchen.

"What you doing in here?" Prue asked.

"I can look after myself," she told them. Prue and Piper exchanged glances, Had she just heard them?

"What's the picture in the hallway of?" Phoebe asked, changing the subject.

"Just one I found. Why don't we take a look at it in the living room?" Piper explained.

The three settled in the living room. Piper placed the picture on the table. Prue got her glasses out and started to inspect the picture, the way she did at Bucklands. 'Old habits die hard.' Phoebe sat near to Piper and hugged her stomach. It was the way she'd been sitting for a while, drawing things close to her. Drawing Nick close to her, as all she had left. Piper looked between her sisters and put a reassuring arm around Phoebe.

"Where did you get this?" Prue asked.

"Some old antique shop. You would have loved it," Piper told her.

"You worked out what it is?" Phoebe asked.

"And there I was thinking that it was just a picture of a beautiful woman," Piper joked.

"You can be so full of..." Phoebe started and then stopped herself. It wasn't called for that comment. Piper looked at her younger sister and Phoebe looked away.

"I'm not sure. I've seen something like this before. It's definitely European rénnaissance," Prue told them.

"16th century, I never expected it too be that old," Piper replied.

"Yeah, it's beautiful. But, there is something not quite right with it," Prue explained.

"I hate it when she says that," Phoebe said, looking at the picture for the first time.

"I'm going to take it up to the Book," Prue explained, picking up the picture. "Either of you coming?"

"In a minute," Piper told her.

Prue headed upstairs, while Piper stayed with Phoebe in the living room. She looked at her little sister. "What's wrong Pheebs?" she asked, concerned.

"Nothing much," Phoebe replied, looking away.

"I can tell something is up. You're not still depressed are you?" Piper asked again, growing more concerned.

"Let's go and help Prue out!" Phoebe said, standing up.

Piper joined her and said, "Would you stop avoiding the subject?! I wished you could just tell me what's wrong, so I can try and help you out."

"I'm fine! And there's nothing wrong with me," Phoebe lied as she headed for the stairs.

Prue was looking through the Book of Shadows when the other two join her. She looked at the Book, and then back to the picture and back to the Book.

"You found anything?" Piper asked.

"I think so. Listen to this," she told them. "In the 16th century an evil witch, called Miranda DuVal, was banished into the painting," Prue started reading.

"This is sounding very familiar," Phoebe said, looking toward the floor, thinking back to the painting Prue got from Buckland's last year.

"Why was she banished?" Piper asked.

"Because she would turn the good in witches into hate. By doing this she would destroy them," Prue explained.

"Well, we agreed to stay away from this kind of thing. So I say, we leave it alone and get Leo and his bosses to deal with it," Piper suggested.

"I'll second that," Prue replied, after thinking about it for a while.

Phoebe stared at the painting. After Nick, she wanted nothing more to do with the supernatural. "Third."

Within a couple of minutes, the three of them had left the room. Leaving the painting lying on a near by chair. Suddenly a strange mist came out of the painting and a faint scream was heard . . .

PART THREE

"Not again!" Phoebe moaned, pulling herself out of bed. She glanced at her bedside table clock and saw through blurry eyes that it was almost 3 in the morning. The queasy feeling was back, with her head busting open and sharp pains in her lower back. Holding on to the wall for support, Phoebe made her way out into the hallway.

She stopped at Piper's room and knocked on the door. "Piper . . . Piper?" she called. There was no answer. A door down the hall opened and a just woken Prue emerged.

"Pheebs, what's wrong?" she asked sleepily.

"I feel awful," Phoebe responded.

Wiping the sleep from her eyes, Prue could see sweat glistening all over her baby sister. She rushed over and felt her head, "Oh my gosh, you're burning up. Where's Piper?"

"I don't know," Phoebe answered weakly.

"Come on, let's get you back in bed," Prue told her, leading her to her room.

Getting Phoebe settled under the silk sheets, Prue walked out into the hall to the bathroom. Her little sister's nightly illness was getting worse. Opening a cabinet, Prue retrieved the medicine Phoebe's obstetrician had prescribed, along with a glass of water.

Stopping in the hall outside Piper's room, Prue knocked and opened the door. There was no sign of her sister, and her bed had not been slept in. Closing the door, Prue headed back to Phoebe's room.

Phoebe saw Prue's concerned look the moment she entered. "Prue, what is it? Did you find Piper?"

"Everything's alright, Pheebs," Prue told her soothingly. "I'm sure Piper just had a late night at the club. Now take this."

Phoebe grimaced as she swallowed her medicine. "Ugh! I hate that stuff!"

Prue handed her the glass of water. Phoebe began gulping it down. "Hey! Take it easy," Prue told her.

Phoebe sat down the empty glass and settled into bed. "That's better," she breathed heavily.

"Listen, I'm going to call Piper's cell 'phone and see what's taking her so long, okay?" Prue asked, heading for the door. Phoebe nodded. "Okay, I'll be right back."

Prue walked in her room, secretly worried about both her sisters. It wasn't like Piper to be out this late. Turning on a light, she picked up her 'phone and dialled Piper's cell 'phone. Oddly enough, she heard it ringing downstairs.

Hanging up, Prue made her way through the hall and down the staircase. She saw Piper's purse laying on the foyer table. "Piper? Piper!" she called.

Walking through the parlour, sun room and kitchen, Prue found no sign of Piper. Shaking her head, she headed back upstairs. That's when she noticed the attic door ajar. Pushing it fully open, she called Piper's name again. Still getting no response, Prue saw a light gleaming inside. Entering, she found Piper standing before the portrait.

"Piper?" Prue said again. Walking up to her, Prue put a hand on her sister's shoulder. She was staring almost transfixed at the painting. "PIPER!"

Piper jumped and blinked several times. "Prue! You scared me half to death!"

"Scared you? I was worried something had happened. What are you doing up here?" she asked, pointedly.

"When I got home, I decided to have one more look at the painting. Is there something wrong with that?" Piper said, irritation rising in her voice.

"Ah, yeah! It's after three in the morning and our baby sister is sick again," Prue told her.

"After three? I didn't realize it was so late," Piper murmured half to herself.

"Have you been up here all this time?" Prue asked, concerned.

"Is Phoebe okay?" said Piper, changing the subject.

Prue folded her arms. "For the moment. You didn't answer my question."

"Look Prue, is it really any of your business what I do? Your not mom 'ya know!" Piper fired back, barging out of the attic and slamming the door.

"Woah!" Prue exclaimed, blinking. 'What was that?' she thought. Stunned by Piper's outburst, Prue turned and looked at the portrait of Miranda. Although it was a beautiful piece, it gave her an odd feeling. The sooner it was out of the house, the better. Turning off the attic light, Prue headed downstairs.

A woman's laughter filled the darkened room . . .

* * * * *

The next morning, Prue, fully dressed and carrying her portfolio, came downstairs to find Piper cooking Phoebe's regular order.

"Good morning," Piper said cheerily. "Did you sleep well?"

Prue stopped in her tracks. Was this the same Piper from last night? "Ah... Piper, are you feeling alright?"

"Of course, why?" she replied, taking a couple of bowls down from the cupboard.

"Oh, it's just that you nearly bit my head off last night, that's all," Prue told her, pouring a cup of coffee.

Piper turned and, with an incredulous look, said, "Prue, I haven't the faintest idea what you're talking about."

Prue looked up from her coffee and stared at Piper. 'Was she playing some sort of game?' "You mean to tell me you don't remember me finding you in the attic?"

"Are you sure you weren't dreaming?" Piper asked. "Because I slept all night long."

Prue shook her head. "Okay, fine. Look, I'm not going to argue with you. How's Phoebe this morning?"

"She insisted on coming downstairs. She's watching TV," Piper answered, setting the table.

"I'll check on her on my way out," Prue told her, finishing her coffee.

"You're not staying for breakfast?" Piper asked.

"No, I've got to meet my editor about the new photographs this morning," Prue replied, heading toward the living room.

"That's just typical," Piper muttered under her breath.

Prue turned, "What did you say?"

"Nothing," Piper smiled. "Have a nice day."

* * * * *

Phoebe sighed and put down the remote control. She hadn't moved from her spot on the sofa since breakfast. Admittedly, she felt worlds better than she had last night. She just hoped there wouldn't be a repeat performance.

She wrapped her hands around her tummy and settled back to watch As The World Turns. Looking up at the clock, she realized it was a little after 2. Piper had been upstairs for hours. 'Probably taking a nap,' Phoebe thought. Piper had been waiting on her hand and foot ever since she had started feeling bad. It felt strange not to have her hovering.

Phoebe jumped as the doorbell chimed. Easing out from under the quilt, she made her way to the door. "Who is it?" she asked.

"Professor Edward Bradford," a man's voiced boomed back.

'Professor Bradford?' Phoebe thought, surprised. 'He was a professor at the college. Why would he be visiting the Manor?'

Phoebe opened the door and was greeted by a distinguished-looking gentleman in his mid-fifties. Removing his hat, he extended a hand. "Miss Halliwell?" he said.

"Yes, hi," Phoebe said, shaking his hand. "Won't you come in?"

"Thank you," he replied, entering the foyer. She lead him into the parlour, where they both took a seat. "You're probably wondering why I'm here," he told her.

"As a matter of fact, yes," Phoebe said, curiously.

"Well, I'm interested in talking with your sister, Piper. I understand that she purchased a painting from an antique shop yesterday," he explained.

Phoebe nodded. "Yes, she did."

Professor Bradford continued, "You see, I study the occult in my spare time. The painting is of a 16th century woman named Miranda DuVal, who was rumoured to be a witch."

"Really?" Phoebe said, raising an eyebrow.

"I took an interest in the portrait and was planning to buy it for my collection. You must find all this rather surprising," Professor Bradford said.

"You have no idea," Phoebe replied slowly.

"I was wondering if your sister would be willing to sell it to me? For a small profit of course," the Professor asked, taking out his check book.

"Ah . . . Let me just get her," Phoebe told him, wishing that Prue were here. As she started to get up, Piper came down the stairs. She marched into the room angrily.

"You can't have my painting!" she cried.

"Piper!" Phoebe said, surprised.

* * * * *

Checking her watch, Prue tapped her feet as she sat in her editor's office. Malcolm was late . . . very late, and Prue hated to be kept waiting. She still couldn't shake the thought of Piper's strange behavior. At that moment, Malcolm entered the room. "Prue, sorry to keep you waiting," he said.

"That's okay," she lied.

"How did the photo shoot go yesterday?" he asked, taking a seat.

"Great! I think you'll really be impressed," she told him, laying her portfolio on his desk.

Malcolm started to open the case. "I can't wait," he told her. "All of your work has been . . ." He jumped up from his desk as the portfolio opened. "What is this?!" he yelled.

"Oh God!" Prue breathed. All of her pictures were covered in blood!

PART FOUR

Prue looked at her photographs in disbelief, how could that had happened? 'What could have possibly be happening?' Something told her straight away that it was demon related.

"I'm so sorry. I have no idea what happened," Prue tried to explain.

"Well, how do you intend to sort this all out?" he asked.

"Let me take them home and re-develop them," Prue offered. "I can have them back by this afternoon."

"You better," Malcolm told her.

"I will, I'll be right back," she told him as she took her portfolio and headed to her car.

"Halliwell!" Malcolm called after her.

"Yes?" Prue asked, turning around.

"If you mess this up you're fired!" He told her.

'Great, that's just great! My job's on the line again, something supernatural happened with that picture. And something has happened to Piper, plus I don't have Phoebe to help me as she has a bad pregnancy. That's great!' She turned back 'round to her boss. "I promise, I'll sort it all out," Prue told him, leaving.

* * * * *

Just after saying goodbye and repetitively saying sorry to the professor, Phoebe turned to go upstairs, to follow her sister, who fled.

"Piper!" she called after her.

"What?" Piper spat out.

"What the hell is up with you?" Phoebe asked.

"I could ask you the same question!" Piper exclaimed.

"Well, I asked you first!" Phoebe told her.

"There's nothing wrong with me," she yelled back. "Unlike you!"

"Fine! You just leave things the way they are," Phoebe shot back at her.

"I'm going to be upstairs," Piper told her, leaving.
"Fine," Phoebe yelled after her.

Piper headed upstairs, toward the attic. Phoebe looked up after her sister, she didn't want to fight with her. 'What's happening to the two of them? They would normally talk about anything.' It had been Piper who had got her out of her depression over Nick. It was really unlike Piper, it had to be that picture. One thing for sure, and that was that wasn't her sister fighting with her, then. She was just about to go after her and find out what was happening, when she doubled over in pain.

"Piper!" She screamed, almost crying in pain.

It was no good, Piper wouldn't be able to hear her, with the attic door shut.

"Somebody help me!" She pleaded. "Leo? Are you around? Piper?"

Tears started to stream from her eyes as the pain got worse. She pulled herself against the wall to give her some support.

"Please help me!" Phoebe screamed, again.

Prue arrived into the Manor, and pushed open the door expecting her sisters to be downstairs. She started talking, "You two will never guess what happened when I took those pictures to my boss."

Prue stop and listened. She heared something upstairs. Suddenly she heard a scream. Prue dropped her things. "Piper? Phoebe?"

She turned the stairs to see Phoebe lying on the floor. "Phoebe?" She questioned, as she rushed toward her.

"Prue?" Phoebe said, almost crying.

"Shh, it will be okay. Just tell me what happened?" Prue comforted her as she cradled her baby sister's head.

"This man came over, a professor, about Piper's painting. She went really strange, then we had this massive argument . . ." Phoebe started.

"It's okay, go on," Prue told her.

Phoebe looked Prue in the eyes. "Why am I bleeding?" Phoebe asked.

"I don't know, it's not that bad. Just tell me what happened," Prue told her, trying to find her words.

"I was going to go over and check that everything was okay . . . but, then this happened," Phoebe gasped, now truly in pain.

"We're going to get you to the hospital," Prue told her.

"What about Piper?" Phoebe asked.

"It's you who needs to go to the hospital," Prue explained.

"Do you think something's happened?" Phoebe asked, scared.

Prue could see the fear in her younger sister's eyes. "I'm sure it will all be okay," Prue tried to reassure her.

Prue carefully helped her back her back down the stairs to the car. 'Something was seriously wrong.' She had quickly decided that they was no time to tell Piper, that she would call her from the hospital.

* * * * *

Leo orbed into the Manor. He didn't care that he was supposed to be somewhere else. His 'bosses' had given him the news of Phoebe having a miscarriage with a mission to do for them. He could hardly care about a 16th century witch, when this was happening. He loved Piper and knew that the news of Phoebe's miscarriage would have hit her hard.

Piper was in the kitchen, she was cleaning up the mess from this morning. Leo walked in. "Piper?"

"Hey sweetie, how are you?" she asked cheerfully.

"You don't know, do you?" Leo exclaimed.

"Know what?" she asked, starting to get worried.

"It's about Phoebe . . ." Leo started.

"What's happened?" Piper interrupted.

Leo look at his girlfriend, it was so hard. "We better get to the hospital. I'll explain on the way," he explained.

Piper was now getting very worried. "What's happened? Is she going to be okay? What about the baby?" she questioned.

"Phoebe will be fine, I promise you," Leo reassured her.

"And the baby?" Piper questioned, as she looked him in the eyes.

"We better get to the hospital," he told her, avoiding her eye contact.

PART FIVE

Prue hated hospitals - no, 'hated' wasn't a strong enough word - 'despised' was more to the point. It had barely been a year since the scare when Piper contracted that tropical disease. Wrinkling her nose from the strong aroma of antiseptic, Prue checked her watch. It had been an hour since the doctor had allowed her to stay in Phoebe's room. She looked at her baby sister, sleeping soundly in the white bed. Ever since Phoebe had announced her pregnancy, Prue 'knew' something bad would happen. Although she never liked Nick, and always knew in her heart he would turn evil, she couldn't believe that Phoebe's connection with him had ended so horribly.

Walking over to the bed, Prue gently brushed back Phoebe's hair. Kissing her on the forehead, Prue wiped tears from her own eyes. Dr. Caldwell said that Phoebe would sleep for hours. The eldest Halliwell felt a sea of turmoil raging inside. Sadness and anger.

Prue took out her cell 'phone for the seventh time and dialed the Manor. After a few moments, she clicked the 'phone off in frustration. 'Where was Piper? What had happened at the Manor?'

* * * * *

Piper's whole body was numb. Leo had broken the news about Phoebe along the way to the hospital. As they walked up to the sliding glass doors, Piper stopped and turned to her boyfriend. "Couldn't you have helped her?" she asked.

"Piper, this was out of everyone's control," he said, gently.

"Control? What do you know about control? You're supposed to be our Whitelighter - the one who watches over and protects us!" Piper shouted.

Leo took a few steps back. He knew that Phoebe's miscarriage had been a terrible blow to them all, but this didn't sound like Piper. He took her by the shoulders and gazed into her eyes. "Piper?"

She shook her head and noticed a few people staring at them. "Yes?"

"Are you alright?" he asked.

"I'm just worried about Phoebe," she said, entering the hospital.

* * * * *

Prue paced Phoebe's room. She knew in her heart that it was a mistake to leave the painting in the house. Somehow it was affecting Piper. If it was the cause of all this, she would go home and burn it herself... Prue jumped as the room's door opened. Leo and a distraught Piper entered. Tears flowing from her eyes, Piper rushed over to Phoebe's bedside.

"I can't believe this is happening," Piper breathed. Prue walked over and turned Piper 'round. She asked her point blank, "What happened at the Manor?"

Piper wiped tears away with the back of her hand. "Prue, I don't know! One minute I was in the kitchen saying goodbye to you and the next Leo orbs in and tells me you took Phoebe to the hospital."

"You don't remember anything between breakfast and now?" Prue asked.

Piper shook her head. "No, and I wished I did!"

"Do you remember a professor coming by the house and the argument you and Phoebe had?" Prue pressed further.

"No!" Piper cried. Prue saw the confusion dancing in her eyes. "Please tell me what's happening?"

Prue sighed and turned to Leo. "I'm glad to see you. We've got to talk about a painting Piper brought home."

Leo nodded. "'They' already informed me about it. I'm more concerned about Piper and Phoebe right now."

"The painting has everything to do with them! Strange things have been happening ever since that damn picture come into the house," Prue told him. "We've got to get rid of it - now!"

Piper had been quiet all this time. Slowly, she moved toward the door.

"Piper, where are you going?" Leo asked.

"I need some fresh air," she answered, almost in a daze.

"Wait, I'll come with you," he offered.

"No, I want to be alone for a little while." And with that, Piper left the room.

Prue saw the look on Leo's face. "I know, I'm worried about her, too."

"All the more reason to deal with this painting," Leo said, decisively. "How did Piper find it?"

"She said that she was drawn to an antique shop for no particular reason," Prue explained, walking back over to Phoebe.

Leo joined her. "Phoebe will be alright, I promise."

Prue looked at him. "I hope so."

"Look, I'm going to find Piper, then go back to the Manor for the painting," Leo told her, heading for the door.

"Okay," said Prue, taking a seat next to Phoebe's bed. A few moments later, Leo burst back in, a frantic look on his face.

"Leo, what is it?" Prue asked, jumping up.

"Piper's gone!" he said.

"What?! Come on," Prue called, racing out of the room. Together, they made their way through the halls, taking the elevator downstairs.

Running outside, Leo stopped in his tracks. "Piper's car is gone!" he exclaimed.

"This is just great! Where could she be?" Prue asked.

Slowly, they came to the same realisation. "The Manor!" They said in unison.

Prue immediately closed her eyes and stood still. "Prue, wait!" Leo said, orbing after her...

Prue reappeared in the Manor's attic. In a few seconds, Leo orbed in beside her. Of Piper there was no sign. "She's not in here," Prue said, stating the obvious.

Leo headed downstairs. "Piper?" he called.

"Leo, come here, quick!" Prue called him back.

"What is it?" he asked, rejoining her.

Prue pointed to the empty stand next to the Book of Shadows. "The painting's gone!"

PART SIX

Prue looked at Leo blankly. "What do we do?" she asked.

"You get back to Phoebe," he told her.

"What about Piper?" Prue asked, worried about both her sisters.

"There's nothing we can do about it, until we get some answers," Leo explained. "I'll go and see what I can find out. But, someone should be with Phoebe when she wakes up."

"Yeah, I know," Prue said, still thinking about Piper.

"Piper, will be okay. She's still your sister, and still cares about you and Phoebe. Just like when Phoebe was taken over by the Woogyman. It took a long time for her not to care," Leo explained.

"Okay," Prue muttered.

"It will all be fine," Leo reassured her.

* * * * *

Piper was at the club, staring at the painting. It was so powerful and strong, that it kept pulling her toward it. She must have been staring at it for a couple of hours now. 'Why was she so drawn to it?' Piper got up. The draw was loosening on her.

She walked over to the 'phone. She had to find out how Phoebe was doing. Slowly she dialed in the number. Her mind was spinning. Had she really yelled at a professor and even worse had a massive argument with Phoebe just before the miscarriage.

"Hello?" Prue's voice came down the 'phone. Piper stayed silent, what could she possible say? "Piper? Is that you? Piper, I think you should get here. If not for me for Pheebs," Prue said into her 'phone. Piper just hung up.

Prue was standing over Phoebe. She had just finished on the 'phone, with who she thought was Piper. She looked down at Phoebe who started to wake up. "Pheebs?" Prue said, softly.

"Prue, is that you?" Came a muttered reply.

"Yes, it is. I'm right here with you," Prue told her. "How are you feeling now?" she asked, softly sitting on the edge of the bed.

"Really bad. What happened? Where am I?" Phoebe asked.

"You're in the hospital," Prue explained.

"Why? What happened? Is everything okay?" Phoebe questioned her older sister.

"No sweetie, everything's not okay," Prue told her. She took a deep breath in, she had no idea how to say this.

Phoebe looked at her. "Please tell me," she pleaded.

Prue looked at her sister and took her hand. "The baby's gone. You've had a miscarriage," Prue told her, as gently as she could.

Tears started to flow in Phoebe's eyes. Prue hugged her little sister closely to her. "It will be okay," Prue tried to comfort her.

"Why?" Phoebe asked, through her tears.

Prue shook her head. "I don't know."

"What have I done to deserve this?" Phoebe asked.

"Nothing. This is not your fault and you don't deserve this," Prue insisted strongly.

Leo appeared at the door. He was about to come in but instead, he just stood there looking at them.

Prue turned and saw Leo out of the corner of her eye. "Come in," she told him.

Leo slowly made his way into the room. "Hi Pheebs, how are you feeling?"

"How do you think I'm feeling!" Phoebe exclaimed.

"Pheebs, this isn't Leo's fault," Prue calmly told her little sister.

"Well, how's is it?" Came back the reply.

"No-one, these things just happen. Any news on the painting and Piper?" Prue asked Leo, changing the subject.

There was a knock on the door, and a figure appeared. "Hi Doctor," Prue said as Dr. Caldwell came into the room.

"Hi, I've just come in to check on Miss Halliwell," he explained. "How are you feeling?" he asked her.

"Sore and in pain," Phoebe replied.

"We can get you some more painkillers for that," Dr Caldwell told her. He looked at Prue. "Can I have a word?"

"Of course," Prue said, leaving with him into the hallway.

"Physically your sister will be fine now. But emotionally it might take her awhile to recover," Dr. Caldwell told her.

"Okay, I understand. But, can I take her home now, because no offence, but none of us really like hospitals," Prue explained.

"Of course, I'll get the papers," he said, walking down the hall.

Phoebe turned and looked up at Leo. "Where's Piper?" she asked.

"We're not sure, 'they're' trying to work it out right now," Leo told her.

"What's wrong with her?" Phoebe asked.

"We don't know, but you just concentrate on getting back to normal," Leo said.

"How can I ever be normal again?" Phoebe asked.

Leo looked at her, he was going to have to be very careful with his choice of words.

PART SEVEN

Prue unlocked the front door of the Manor and Leo carried Phoebe inside. It had taken what seemed like hours to get all the paperwork done at the hospital. The doctor gave Phoebe a sedative and she was out like a light. Sleep was the best thing for her right now.

"Bring her in here," Prue instructed, leading Leo into the living room. Plumping up the sofa pillows and grabbing a quilt, Prue waited as Leo gently laid Phoebe down. Prue covered her with the quilt, then looked up at Leo.

"I can't believe this is happening," Prue confessed. She was so worried about her sisters.

"Prue, I promise that she'll be alright," Leo said gently.

"What are we going to do about Piper?" asked Prue.

"You can both stop worrying about Piper. She's a big girl," a voice said.

They turned to see Phoebe sitting up. Her expression was cold as stone. Prue quickly knelt down beside her. "Pheebs, you've got to get some rest. Don't fight the medicine."

"Why should I rest? Piper caused all of this!" Phoebe snapped.

Prue grabbed Phoebe's shoulders. "Phoebe! Stop talking like that!"

Her baby sister shook her head and stared at Prue uncomprehendingly. "Prue? How long have we been home?"

"What? Phoebe, I..." Prue started, but Leo jumped in. "Phoebe, how are you feeling?" he asked.

"I wish that everyone would stop asking me that," she said, sadly.

A sudden thought struck Prue. "Pheebs, do you remember the name of the professor that was here?"

Phoebe thought for a moment. Her head felt so heavy. "Professor Bradford," she answered groggily. "He left a card somewhere."

Prue began searching the room. "Prue, what are you doing?" Leo asked.

She looked up from across the room. "If we can get in touch with him, maybe he can tell us more about the painting."

"Good idea. While you're doing that, I'm going to see if 'They' know anything," Leo told her.

"Alright," Prue nodded and watched as Leo orbed away.

"Wait, here it is," Phoebe said, picking up the little card Professor Bradford had left behind from a nearby table. In that instant, her mind flashed to P3....

~ Piper standing in front of the portrait ~

Phoebe gasped as the scene changed to an apartment....

~ Professor Bradford holding a glass ~ ~ Piper creeping up from behind holding a knife ~

Phoebe cried out as the premonition faded. Prue was at her side in an instant. Tears ran in streams down her little sister's face.

"Phoebe, what is it? What did you see?" she asked urgently.

Phoebe struggled to catch her breath. "Piper! She's going to kill Professor Bradford!"

"What?!" Prue cried, jumping up. 'Had the strain gotten to Phoebe?' she wondered.

Noticing the look on her face, Phoebe said forcefully, "Prue, I'm telling you what I saw! Piper's in trouble!"

Prue held up her hands. "Okay Pheebs, I believe you. It's the painting, it's affected Piper's mind."

"You have to stop her," Phoebe pleaded.

"I will, Pheebs," Prue said, gathering her pocketbook and keys. "Will you be alright?"

"Leo should be back soon - now go!"

Prue ran out of the door and headed down the walk to her car.

* * * * *

Professor Bradford poured himself another glass of sherry and sat down to relax by the fire. He'd had a very interesting day. The young Halliwell girl had acted so strangely about the portrait. All those years of research to track it down, and now it was in the hands of someone else.

His thoughts were interrupted by a knock. Getting up, he opened the door to be greeted by the sight of Piper Halliwell.

"Miss Halliwell!" he exclaimed. "How nice to see you again."

Piper didn't say a word as she walked into his apartment.

"I hope this means you've changed your mind about the portrait," the professor said.

"As a matter of fact, I have," Piper replied, almost smiling.

Professor Bradford motioned toward a chair. "Won't you have a seat?"

Piper sat and stared across at the Professor. "I'd like for you to tell me more about the painting," she said.

The professor smiled, taking a seat on the sofa. "As I told your sister, I'm very interested in the occult. And in particular the history of Miranda DuVal."

She gave him a direct, intense look. "And why is that, Professor?"

"Oh, I'm being a very bad host. Can I pour you a drink?" he offered, already moving to the bar.

"Yes, please go on," Piper urged.

"You see, Miranda was a very fascinating woman. In the 16th century, if you blinked the wrong way you were considered a witch. But Miranda, she was something special," the Professor talked as he fixed a glass.

She glared at him. "Is that so?" In front of her was a beautiful oak table. On top of which was a platter of cold meats, and a wicked-looking butcher knife.

"Yes, she was a French lady and there were several unexplained murders in her little village. All fingers pointed to Miranda but she mysteriously disappeared," Professor Bradford continued, pouring the sherry.

Piper stood up, the knife glinting in her hand. "Could it be that your fascination is because of an ancestor? They say, curiosity killed the cat..." Piper was behind him now, the knife held high above.

"Why yes, one of my ancestors was reportedly a victim of Miranda's... but how did you know that?" the professor asked, slowly turning.

At that moment, the door flew open. "Piper!" screamed Prue, throwing her hand.

Piper crashed into Professor Bradford, sending him reeling. His head hit the floor with a nasty thud. Rushing inside, Prue took hold of her sister. Piper shook her head and dropped the knife, a look of total confusion crossed her face. "Prue?" she said, wonderingly.

"Piper, do you know where you are?" Prue asked, full of concern.

"No! What am I doing here?" she replied, frantically.

"It's alright, I'm going to take you home," she said, gently.

Piper noticed Professor Bradford lying unconscious on the wood floor. "Who is that man?"

Prue leaned down to check on him. She saw that he had a small bruise on the back of his neck. "Don't worry, he'll be okay."

Professor Bradford groaned and Prue helped him to sit up. "Wh-What happened?" he asked.

"You took a bad fall, Professor," Prue explained.

"I guess I had too much sherry," he said, rubbing his neck.

"Professor, I'm here to take my sister home. She's not feeling very well," Prue told him, going over to Piper.

"I'm not?" Piper asked.

"No, you're not," Prue whispered out of the corner of her mouth.

Professor Bradford stood up and walked them to the door. "Ah... yes, well if you would get back to me about the painting," he said.

"Yeah, sure!" Prue nodded, hurrying Piper out of the door...

* * * * *

A few minutes away from the apartment building, Prue drove back to the Manor as a rain shower began. She was thinking furiously about what to do. It had been a close call with Piper. She looked over at her sister, who had been quite for awhile now. The sooner Leo got back, the better.

"You had no right to do that!" Piper yelled suddenly.

Prue felt her blood turn to ice at the look of pure hate radiating from Piper's eyes. "Piper, you almost killed a man! You didn't know what you were doing."

"I know exactly what I'm doing and you're not going to stop me!" Piper shouted, grabbing hold of the steering wheel. The car swerved back and forth along the darkened streets.

"Piper, stop it!" Prue cried, trying to regain control. Piper let go as the car ground to a halt. Before Prue knew what was happening, Piper had leapt out and was running into the night. Unfastening her seatbelt, Prue leapt out of the car in pursuit.

"Piper! Piper, come back!" Prue called, nearly slipping on the wet pavement. Seeing Piper turn a corner, Prue followed. She would not lose her again! Skidding to a halt, Prue saw with disbelief that Piper had disappeared!

* * * * *

Using a spare key, Prue entered P3. On the way over, she had reasoned that Piper would not return to the Manor. This could be the only place she would go. Turning on the lights, Prue went from room to room calling Piper's name.

Running back up to the bar, Prue thumped a table in frustration. Looking up, she saw the portrait of Miranda DuVal staring across at her.

"You!" Prue shouted, walking up to the portrait. It was sitting up on one of the tables. "You're the reason for all of this. I won't let you hurt my sisters!"

With her keys in hand, Prue began to slash the painting, ripping Miranda's face off the canvas. Breathing deeply, Prue took the torn fragments to a waste basket and tossed them in. Behind the bar, she found a box of matches and struck one.

Standing back, she watched Miranda's image burn and crumple. Crossing her arms, she silently prayed that this would restore Piper. A light shone behind her and Prue turned 'round quickly. "Prue?"

"Leo!" Prue gasped. "One of these days we're going to tie a bell around your neck!"

"Where's Piper?" he asked, looking around the empty club.

"I don't know," Prue sighed heavily. "What did 'They' have to say?"

"The portrait was drawn to Piper for a reason and the three of you will have to take care of it," he told her.

"I just love it when you deliver good news," Prue said, sarcastically.

"Prue, I don't like it any more than you," Leo replied.

She pointed to the little fire. "Don't worry Leo, I think I've taken care of it."

Leo raised an eyebrow. "I hope that works."

"Me, too. Come on, let's try to find Piper," Prue said, heading for the stairs.

"How was Phoebe?" he asked.

"Sleeping, hopefully," she began, not wanting to tell him about what nearly happened. "Only time will tell." Prue turned to switch off the lights. "Leo, look!"

Leo's mouth dropped open. "The portrait!" he shouted.

Across the room, the painting of Miranda DuVal stood just as before. Her smiling face staring out at them . . .

PART EIGHT

Phoebe was asleep, having a nightmare. Her mind was running through her relationship with Nick. From meeting him to the end of the relationship...

All through class, Phoebe and the young man exchange furtive glances. When the lecture came to a close, the usual hustle of the class dispersing began. Phoebe began to gather up her things and found a hand holding out her backpack.

She looked up and saw it was her rescuer. "Thanks," Phoebe said, shyly.

"You're welcome," he said, giving her that smile again.

Phoebe took the backpack and loaded her school supplies inside. Standing, she shook his hand. "Hey, I owe you one."

"No problem," he said, walking her out of class. "By the way, my name's Nicholas, Nick for short."

Nick, of course! Phoebe could mentally kick herself for forgetting his name. "I'm Phoeb..." she began.

"Phoebe, yeah I know," he said and they both laughed.
"Are you doing anything right now?" she asked. Nick shook his head no. "How would you like to have lunch?"

"Sure, that sounds great."

A few moments later, Phoebe and Nick were in the student union laughing and sharing a hot lunch. "That was the first time in ages that I was late for a class," Phoebe explained.

"Don't worry, that's happened to me before, too."

Phoebe gave herself a mental pat on the back. This was going so well. It had been quite some time since she had been interested in a guy. Nick reached out to touch her hand . . .

* * * * *

Nick walked forward towards Gerald. Just then Phoebe came around the corner. She looked at Nick, what was he doing. "Nick!" she screamed.

"Phoebe, what are you doing here? You've got to leave," he told her.

"No chance. What's going on here?" she asked, again.

Gerald grabbed Nick's arm. "I've had enough of this!"

Phoebe lunged toward him and kicked him in the side. She helped Nick up. "Yeah, so have I!" she replied, looking for her sisters. "Prue, Piper!" she screamed.

"Goodbye witch," he said as he disappeared into dust. Just then Prue appeared 'round the side.

"I think . . . you got something to tell me . . . like you the hell you are?" he stuttered.

"It's mutual, what the hell where you doing making a deal with a Darklighter!" she exclaimed, as a few tears started to flow. 'Why had she done this to herself again?'

* * * * * *

Phoebe was at the bar in P3 when Nick walked in. He was hiding something behind his back. Smiling, he walked over to her. "What's going on?" she asked him, doubtfully.

"I've got something to tell you," he replied grinning.

"Go on," Phoebe told him.

He produced a red rose from behind his back. "I love you," he told her.

* * * * *

Phoebe picked up the 'phone and called Nick. She looked back down at her pregnancy test. 'How was she going to tell him?!'

"Hello?" Nick's voice came down the 'phone.

"Hi, you," Phoebe replied nervously.

"How's the studying going?" he asked.

"Not bad. Look tomorrow, after the test, I've got tell you something," Phoebe explained.

"Something good?" he asked.

"I hope so," she told him.

* * * * *

Nick kicked open the door. He marched into the living room holding the gun up. He shoots it into the air. "Nick don't do this, please. You don't know what you are doing!" Phoebe begged, seeing the look of hate in his eyes.

"I have to," Nick replied, coldly.

Nicholas walked into the room. "What are you waiting for?"

Phoebe walked up to Nick, with her arms in the air. "Phoebe, no!" Prue and Piper said in unison. "Nick, look at me," she told him.

"Do it!" Nicholas commanded.

Nick pushed Phoebe to the ground and pulled back the trigger. "No!!" Phoebe screamed, kicking Nick's feet out from under him. The gun fired wild into the air, striking the chandelier. Furious, Nicholas prepared to hurl his dark power at Phoebe.

Piper frantically waved her hands, but the only ones who froze were Nick, Leo and Andy. "Oh my god, why won't he freeze?" her panic-stricken voice cried.

Philip leapt forward. He had seen this all happen before and was not about to watch his sisters die again. Hurling himself next to Phoebe, he shielded her body with his own.

Before Nicholas could dispatch his power, Prue threw her hand sending the demon crashing headfirst into the foyer's solid oak table. The heavy table burst into fragments on impact. Both Piper and Prue looked at one another in amazement. Her powers were growing again! They saw Nicholas staggering to his feet.

"Phoebe!" They both exclaimed, rushing over to their sister and Philip. Helping them up, Prue noticed the shared look on Philip's face. "What is it?' she asked him, breathlessly.

"Your powers!" he exclaimed.

"Yeah, they're growing again," Prue replied with a little pride.

Piper scowled. "I just hate you sometimes."

"It's not that! My Prudence had the power to stop time, and Piper was telekinetic!" Philip explained.

"Really?" Piper and Prue said in unison. "Ah, guys, I think we'd better be getting out of here!" Phoebe interrupted. They all turned to see Nicholas regaining his senses. Prue lashed out with her strengthened power and knocked the demon off his feet. Piper ran towards Leo and Andy, quickly unfreezing them.

"What happened?" Leo asked, grabbing Piper protectively. Out of instinct, Andy ran into the foyer to make sure Phoebe was alright. "Upstairs, quick!" Prue ordered.

Piper, Leo, Prue, Philip and Andy all raced for the staircase taking care to avoid Nicholas' unconscious form. Phoebe stopped and knelt by Nick, who was still frozen. "Phoebe, come on!" Piper yelled.

"I can't leave him," she said bluntly.

"You have to," Leo said.

"Phoebe, please!" Philip pleaded.

She stood up and look directly at Piper. "Unfreeze him," she said. Her sisters were about to argue, but Phoebe was adamant. "I have to be sure."

"Wait," Philip said to Piper. He made his way back down the stairs and stood next to Phoebe. Together, they knelt beside Nick. Philip removed the gun from Nick's hand, then Piper wiggled her fingers and Nick jumped up. Before Phoebe could say a word, a vicious knife appeared in Nick's hand. Prue, Piper and Phoebe screamed as Nick, possessed by demonic forces, lunged at Philip. The knife flashed near Philip's neck . . . but stopped just in time as Piper froze Nick. Philip moved away and took the shocked Phoebe by the hand, leading her to the stairs...

* * * * *

Phoebe shot up out of her dream. She searched around the room for Prue, but she wasn't there. 'It's only a dream, it's okay,' she told herself. 'Don't be stupid, it is not a dream. This is real!'

* * * * *

Piper appeared from the alcove of the club. She looked at her sister and boyfriend. "That's my picture! Get away from it!" she told them.

"Piper, we're only trying to help you," Prue tried to explain.

"Yeah, of course you are," Piper replied.

"Piper, just tell me what's happened to you and I can help. I'm your sister," Prue pleaded with her.

"Get out of my club!" she exclaimed.

Prue looked at Leo. "We can't leave her like this."

"I'm not a child!" Piper spat at her sister.

Leo's heart ached at the sight of Piper like this. "Piper, I love you. Please try to understand, you're under a spell."

Piper pointed to the door. "I'm not going to tell you again - Get out!"

Leo shook his head sadly and turned back to Prue. "You're best off getting back to Phoebe and the book."

"I guess," Prue admitted defeated. It had been two hours since she had left Phoebe and, with the mood she was in, anything could have happened. Maybe there was an answer in the Book of Shadows.

Piper had waited for the two of them to have gone. She then pulled out a piece of paper from her pocket. Something she had gotten from the professor's apartment. She placed it next to the painting and went to get some candles.

She picked up the paper and read out loud. "A spell to bring forth Miranda DuVal."

Piper smiled to herself, as she began to chant. She heard a crash of thunder and the room began to fill with smoke. Piper's smile grew and grew, until she was laughing evilly . . .

PART NINE

Prue and Leo returned to the Manor. 'This had been one of the worst days in their lives,' Prue thought, opening the door.

"There's got to be something in the Book that can help," Prue said, entering the house.

Leo closed the door behind them. "I'll start looking while you check on Phoebe."

"Piper will be alright, won't she?" Prue asked, seeing the concern shimmering in Leo's eyes.

"Prue, if we don't break the spell over Piper she could be lost forever," he told her, biting his lip. "It was all I could do not to pick her up and orb her away."

Taking hold of his hand, Prue looked into his face. "I know Leo, but if you couldn't get through to her . . . Our only hope is the Book."

Leo nodded and headed up the stairs. Prue watched him go with a heavy heart. Both her sisters had been through an ordeal and it wasn't over yet. Laying her keys on the foyer table, she walked into the living room.

Phoebe was sitting by the window, wrapped up in a quilt, staring out into the night. "Phoebe?" Prue said gently. When she didn't respond, Prue knelt beside her. Phoebe's pale face didn't move, her eyes red from crying.

Prue reached out and touched her shoulder. "Pheebs, Leo and I are back. Do you want to go upstairs to your room?" Still no response. "Phoebe, please?"

"Have you ever noticed how the shadows swallow everything in the night?" Phoebe said weakly. She sat up and knocked Prue's hand away. "You hated Nick from the start!" she cried. "You never trusted him, never gave him the benefit of the doubt! We could have tried to save him!"

Prue took hold of Phoebe and looked into her eyes. "Phoebe, stop it! Stop it! I love you!"

Her eyes focusing on her older sister, Phoebe collapsed into tears. Prue held onto her tightly, rocking her back and forth. The two Halliwells cried together as a new day began to dawn . . .

* * * * *

Leo walked down the stairs after long hours spent searching the Book of Shadows. Making his way into the living room, he knelt beside the sofa where Phoebe slept deeply. Placing a hand above her head, Leo whispered, "Please, please let me heal her pain."

* * * * *

Prue jumped as her cell 'phone rang. The medicine had kicked in again and Phoebe had drifted to sleep. She had slept in a chair beside her for only a few hours. Now she was in the kitchen, working on her second cup of coffee. As Prue answered the 'phone, she hoped that it was Piper calling.

"Hello?" she answered.

"Halliwell!" Malcolm's voice shouted. "Where are those pictures?"

Prue sighed. "Malcolm, I had a family emergency . . . My sister was in the hospital."

"Another family emergency? You're making a habit of this!" Malcolm's tone did not change.

The recent events caught up with Prue in that instant. "Listen, Malcolm, you'll get your damn pictures if I have to deliver them on a silver platter. You got it?" Prue hung up and took a deep, cleansing breath.

"Feeling better?" Leo asked from the doorway.

Prue looked up and smiled. "Yes, lots. How was your night?"

Leo took a seat next to Prue at the table. "Not good. The only reference to Miranda DuVal in the Book concerned her banishment into the painting."

"What? No vanquishing spell? Nothing?"

"Nothing," Leo confirmed.

"That's just great! And just when I was feeling better," Prue said, getting up and tossing the remains of her coffee into the sink.

"Prue, I have a feeling that if Piper is returned to normal . . ." Leo began.

Prue turned and nodded. "Great minds think alike," she said, grabbing her purse.

"What are you doing?" he asked.

"I'm going to call Professor Bradford. He may be able to help," she explained, finding his business card. 'If Miranda wanted him dead, he must be a threat to her,' Prue thought as she dialed the number.

"Professor Bradford speaking," he answered.

"Hi, Professor. This is Prue Halliwell, Phoebe and Piper's sister. How are you feeling this morning?" she asked hurriedly.

"Ah, yes, Miss Halliwell. I've got a terrible headache, but other than that, right as rain," he told her cheerily.

"Glad to hear it. Professor, is it possible for me to come by? I really need your help with something," Prue continued.

"Why of course," he answered back. "How about half past noon? I'm meeting a new student in a little while."

"That would be perfect, thank you," Prue said, hanging up. She turned back to Leo. "Well, it's a long shot . . ." she began.

Leo stood up. "I'll stay here with Phoebe, then we can meet at the club."

Prue gathered her things together. "Sounds great, Leo. Hopefully, I'll have a solution."

She walked into the parlour to check on Phoebe. It was nearly noon, if she left now, Professor Bradford would be through with his meeting. Prue stopped in front of the sofa and saw her little sister was still sleeping. Curiously, Phoebe had a look of total peace. Prue leaned over and kissed her on the cheek, hoping that she was having sweet dreams.

* * * * *

Professor Bradford finished preening himself in a wall mirror at the knock on the door. He always liked to fix up for pretty young students. Admittedly, he was a bit baffled by the 'phone call he'd received that morning. It had been from a young woman named Valerie Bouchard, claiming to be a new student in his class that needed help. The funny thing was, he didn't recall a Valerie being in any of his classes.

Opening the door, Edward Bradford was greeted by the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. "Professor Bradford," she smiled charmingly.

"Y-yes," he stammered. "Please do come in."

She floated into the room, turning to look back at the bedazzled man. "I'm Valerie Bouchard."

Professor Bradford felt his throat tighten as he looked at the vision before him; beautiful porcelain skin, dark hair and penetrating icy blue eyes . . .

* * * * *

Prue parked her car in the apartment complex's underground garage. She was a little early, but was more than ready to meet with the professor. He was their only link to the painting, and hopefully, held the clue to saving Piper.

Taking the lift up to the fifth floor, Prue walked down the elegant hallway towards apartment 5L. As she rounded a corner, she caught a glimpse of a dark haired woman in a green silk dress disappearing down the hall.

Prue stared after her as she walked up to the professor's door. Knocking gently, she lost sight of the woman. "Professor Bradford?" Prue called. "It's Prue Halliwell."

Knocking again, the door slowly creaked open. Prue took a tentative step inside. "Professor Bradford?" She gasped in horror. Professor Bradford's body laid sprawled out on the floor . . .

PART TEN

Prue got out her cell 'phone and dialed in Darryl's number. This needed reporting to the police and at the moment she wasn't sure how it was linked to Piper. While waiting for Darryl she decided to look for some clues. She flicked through the mess. Professor Bradford had some odd tastes. Her eyes fell upon a few spell books. She wasn't going to find anything.

Darryl walked through the door. "Prue?"

"Darryl." The usual pattern started.

Darryl looked down at the body and back to Prue. "Dare I ask, what happened her?"

"To tell the truth, I'm not sure," Prue replied.

"Well, I'll get someone over to check this out," Darryl started.

"You can't," Prue stopped him.

"Why not this time?" Darryl asked with a sigh.

"I think it's supernatural. Can I just make sure before you do anything?" Prue explained.

"I'll call in a favor," Darryl explained.

"Thanks," Prue replied as she started to leave.

"Prue? How's Phoebe? Has she finally accepted the baby?" Darryl asked, thinking of a friend.

"Darryl," she started.

"We could probably get out some of our old baby clothes," he told her.

"That won't be needed," Prue said and took a deep breath in. "She's had a miscarriage."

"I'm so sorry. How's she holding up?" Darryl asked, worried.

"I'm not sure," Prue told him. "But we would appreciate it, if you could take care of this."

"Of course," he replied. "And tell Phoebe, I'll call in to see her soon. That's if she's up to guests."

"I'm sure she loved to see you," Prue nodded.

* * * * *

Leo looked back on Phoebe, she was still sleeping. She was obviously dreaming . . .

*

Phoebe approached Nick with tentative steps. "Nick, you have nothing to be afraid of. We just want to help you," she said reassuringly.

He turned to her with fear in his eyes. "Phoebe, I never wanted to hurt you. I don't understand what's going on. I'm so confused." She placed her arm round his broad shoulders. "This guy shows up offering me great things . . . I couldn't say no. It was almost as if he had some kind of hold over my mind," he explained.

"How do you feel now?" she asked.

"A little better. Like I can think for myself again. When I'm in his presence, my mind . . . I don't know what to do."

Phoebe took his hand, and she was relieved that he didn't shy away. "Nick, will you trust me?"

He looked into her eyes and answered, "Yes..."

*

Phoebe was walking around the city, looking for Nick. On a personal level, she thought she was falling in love with him, and the more she reasoned with herself, the more she felt. Phoebe turned the corner, there he was. She moved up slowly, in order not to scare him off before she got there. Standing just behind him, she said in a quiet, soft, gentle voice. "Nick."

He span around, "What do you want?" he demanded.

"To talk," she explained.

"So, talk," Nick replied.

"I want you to come back with me. It's not safe for you to be on your own," she explained to him.

"I'm not going back with you. Not with your sister there," Nick told her standing back in a defensive position.

"Prue's just very overprotective of us, especially me that's all. And, Piper is very in love with Leo," Phoebe explained...

*

Nick looked at Phoebe again, and around at the warehouse. 'Where were they? What was he doing there? And why were Phoebe's sisters there?' Nick smiled at her. Somehow he felt closer to her.

Phoebe looked back at Nick. She thought she was really falling in love with him. They had been through so much together in the last 24 hours. But, now he couldn't remember any of it.

"What am I, are we doing here?" Nick asked again.

"Oh, Nick, it's long not very interesting story," Phoebe explained.

"I'd love you to tell me about it," Nick told her.

"I'd love to do that," she replied.

"Then, it's a date. Tomorrow?" he asked her.

"Sounds great," Phoebe replied, smiling...

*

"What's going on, Phoebe? You hardly said a word this morning," Nick said gently.

"I just had a rough night," Phoebe explained.

"Bad dreams?" Nick suggested.

"Ah, you could say that," Phoebe said, unfastening her seatbelt and stepping out of Nick's car.

"Don't sweat it, Pheebs. It's just nerves! With all the studying you've put in this week, you're sure to ace this final," Nick told her, locking the doors.

Phoebe couldn't help but smile. He was right of course. She'd avoided several dates with Nick just to spend time in the school library studying. When this was all over, she really owed him big time. "See, I made you smile," Nick laughed. "Come on, Phoebe," he said taking her by the arm. "As soon as the test is over, we're going out and celebrating..."

*

"Can we have a word in private? It's important," Prue asked. "You better sit down Pheebs."

"What's happened?" she asked.

"I don't know how to tell you this," Prue starts, taking in a deep breath. "We may have to vanquish Nick."
"You what?" Phoebe questioned in disbelief...

*

During Phoebe's dream, Prue had walked into the Manor. She was explaining to Leo what had happened. "What do we do?" Prue asked.

"I'm still not sure at the moment," Leo told her truthfully.

"Well, when you know, please tell me. I'm on the verge of losing it here," Prue confessed.

"I know this must be hard, but we'll make sure it all works out."

Just then Phoebe jolted up in her sleep. "Nick!" she screamed. "Come back to me!"

Prue and Leo rushed over to Phoebe's side. "It's okay," Prue tried to comfort her.

"Where's Nick?" Phoebe asked.

"He's gone," Prue said, softly.

"I want him back," Phoebe told her, crying.

Prue hugged her little sister. "I know."

"Can, I talk to Piper?" Phoebe asked, longing to see her other sister.

"That's it!" Leo exclaimed.

"What's it?" Prue asked looking over to Leo.

"If we can get Pheebs to talk to Piper, then maybe she'll realize what happened," Leo told her.

"Go on," Prue told him, as she walked towards him.

"Piper is under a spell of hate which Miranda is feeding off of. What is the one thing evil cannot face? Love! To get Piper back, she has to feel love, she has to realize it herself. It's the only way to bring back her identity," Leo explained.

"I'm not risking this backfiring on either one of them," Prue told him strongly.

"It could be our only chance," Leo advised. "And I don't think I need to tell you that the longer Piper stays like this, the harder it will be to get her back!"

* * * * *

Piper was at the club, looking at the empty canvas. Just then, Miranda walked in. "The professor's dealt with," Miranda told her, smiling. "Now for your sisters."

"I can't," Piper stuttered.

"You must! They are a threat," Miranda told her.

"Why didn't you just let the professor bring you back? He had the spell to summon you!" Piper pleaded. "For pity's sake, let me go!"

Miranda simply laughed. "You cannot defy me, Piper Halliwell. The professor was a fool, just like his ancestor. No, I needed the power of a very special witch."

Piper looked at a picture of her sisters, resting in her office. "I can't!" she repeated.

"You just have to be here. I'll do all the hard work," Miranda told her smoothly.

"They're my sisters," Piper whispered, feeling Miranda's eyes piercing into her.

"They are a threat!" Miranda told her again, raising her voice.

PART ELEVEN

It had taken quite a bit of persuading on Prue and Leo's part, but once they'd explained the situation. Phoebe had agreed to go to P3. Prue admired her baby sister's bravery more than ever. She helped Phoebe dress into a nice shirt and jeans, and soon they were on their way.

When they arrived at the club, Prue was surprised to see the usual long line extending from the door. 'What is Piper doing?' Prue wondered. The last sight of her had been Piper ordering both her and Leo out - now she had opened the club.

Prue and Leo led a pale Phoebe through the crowd. Joe, the bouncer, recognized them at once and let them in. The trio almost had to cover their ears from the loud, pounding techno music. Descending into the club, they began searching for Piper.

Prue took Phoebe to an alove where she could rest. "Will you be okay?" she asked, shouting above the noise. Phoebe strained to hear, then nodded. "I'll be right back!"

Leo had gone on ahead. After questioning the bartender, he learned that Piper had gone to her office. Pushing his way through the dancing bodies, Leo walked toward the back. He knocked on the office door. "Piper? Piper!"

No response. Trying the handle, he found the door securely locked. Looking 'round, Leo orbed out and reappeared inside the office. Of Piper there was no sign. Looking across the room, Leo saw Piper's large swivel chair facing the wall. Atop her desk was the painting. Rushing over, he picked it up. The canvas was empty!

Dropping the frame, he made for the door. The swivel chair turned silently. "Going so soon?" a voice asked.

Leo looked back and saw a dark-haired woman seated in the chair. She smiled, her frosty blue eyes sparkling. Leo's eyes widened - it was Miranda DuVal!

"Now, now, those aren't very good manners," she chided, stepping forward.

Leo clenched his fists. "I know who you are, and I won't let you hurt Piper!"

Miranda simply smiled and raised a hand at Leo. He gasped, making hoarse, whispering sounds. "You cannot speak. You see, I know who you are as well. No-one will stop me again. Now that I have a Charmed One under my power, all things are possible," she laughed silkily.

Leo tried to orb away, but couldn't. Miranda laughed and revealed what she was concealing behind her back: a clay figure with a ribbon tied 'round its neck. She held it before his feverish eyes.

"This is you," she taunted, beginning to tighten the ribbon. "You will not stop me!" Leo's hands clutched at his throat as the air was squeezed from his body. He collapsed onto the floor. Miranda laughed and left the office, dropping the doll...

* * * * *

Prue angrily pushed through a couple of customers. She'd been all over the dance floor, trying to locate her sister. Someone bumped into her and Prue was about to curse when she spotted Piper sitting across the room. She was dressed in a slinky black dress, hair piled up, and wearing more make-up than she'd ever seen. Prue marched over to her.

"There you are," Prue said.

Piper looked up at her coldly. "I thought I told you to stay away."

"Piper, we don't have time for this. Phoebe is here and she needs to see you," Prue told her, taking her by the arm.

Piper pushed her back. "Take your hands off me!" she shouted. "You think you know everything! I'm so sick and tired of your attitude!"

"Hold it right there, missy!" Prue exclaimed.

Piper started moving toward the back of the club. Emerging from the hallway, Prue saw the woman she'd glimpsed at Professor Bradford's apartment. A cold realization struck her in the face . . . those eyes . . . Miranda DuVal!!

Prue ran forward and grabbed Piper, forcing her to face her. "Piper, listen to me, you are under a spell!"

Miranda stood still, watching the exchange between the two sisters...

"A spell? Why don't you and Phoebe whine about it somewhere else?" Piper smirked.

Miranda smiled, her powers were growing. The hate was swelling inside Piper Halliwell. Her eyes glowing softly, she directed her gaze at Prue...

Prue's body went rigid, and she stared at Piper. "Why don't you shut up!" she cried.

Suddenly the music stopped. Everyone in the club turned to look at the scene. Piper reached forward, grabbing a drink off of a nearby table. With one swift action, she threw it in Prue's face. Miranda's eyes glowed brighter...

Small fights began to break out among the patrons. Hearing the scuffle, Phoebe pushed back the curtain of the alcove and saw what was happening. "Oh no!" she cried. Looking across the room, she saw Prue soaking wet about to pounce on Piper.

Lashing out with her power, Prue sent Piper flying across the room. She landed in a heap next to a table. Prue reached out her hand, and a tray leapt into it. She sent it hurling straight for Piper.

* * * * *

In the office, a half-conscious Leo gasped and reached out for the fallen clay figure...

* * * * *

Phoebe screamed and ran out of the alcove. Piper looked up and froze the tray in mid-air, at the same time freezing every one in the room.

"Stop it!" Phoebe cried. "What's wrong with you two?"

"Shut up!" Piper told her. Phoebe's mouth dropped open in shock.

Prue stumbled dazedly and shook her head. "Whew!" she breathed. Looking behind Piper, she could see Miranda frozen along with the rest of the room. "It worked," she said, relieved.

Piper regained her feet and marched toward Prue, ready for another attack. Prue held up her hands, "Piper, calm down!"

"Are you alright?" Phoebe asked, joining her oldest sister.

"Yeah, I just had to get Piper angry enough to freeze the room," Prue explained, wiping the dacquiri from her eyes.

"You're so clever, Prudence!" Piper mocked. "I want you both out of my club - now!"

"Piper, you are under a spell. Turn around and look - look!" Prue told her.

Piper folded her arms and turned. "Whoa!" Phoebe cried. Standing frozen in the doorway was a woman with glowing eyes.

"Phoebe, talk to her," Prue said.

Phoebe walked up to Piper, placing her hands on her shoulders. "Piper, we're your sisters. We love you."

"Si-sisters?" Piper muttered, dreamily.

"Yes, I need you Piper. Remember the hospital? Remember what happened?" Phoebe continued, choking back her own grief.

"The hospital?" Piper said, her eyes blinking rapidly.

Prue joined them. "Keep going, Pheebs! You're getting through."

"No!" Miranda shrieked. Prue, Piper and Phoebe turned to see that the evil witch had broken through Piper's power. She threw off her dark wig, blonde curls flowing. "Piper Halliwell, you will obey me! Destroy them!" Miranda commanded.

Piper turned back to face her sisters. Her face completely cold. Prue grabbed Phoebe and ducked as Piper lunged for them.

"Phoebe, we have to reassert her identity!" Prue told her.

"Great! How are we supposed to do that?" she asked.

"Like this! Piper! Piper!" Prue called. "Remember the Christmas Grams gave you that doll you always wanted?"

Phoebe punched Prue's arm. "Don't tell her that! I broke that doll, remember?"

"Oh, right! Um... Piper! Remember when you and Leo first met?" Prue continued.

Piper stopped and looked at them, her eyes dancing. "That's right, Piper!" Phoebe called. "Remember how much you love Leo! How much we love you!"

A choking sound made all three sisters turn. Leo staggered in from Piper's office, collapsing. "Leo!" Prue and Phoebe screamed.

Suddenly, Piper, shocked by the sight of Leo in pain, snapped out of the spell. "Leo!" she cried.

Enraged, Miranda turned on the fallen Whitelighter. "No!"

"I won't let you hurt him!" Piper shouted, slamming hard into the witch.

Miranda gazed at Piper, and began to scream - her power gone.

Prue and Phoebe ran up to their sister. "Love is the key, Piper!" Prue told her, breathlessly.

"You won't destroy me with hate. I love them! I LOVE THEM! I LOVE THEM!" Piper shouted over and over.

Miranda screamed as fire rose up from the floor, engulfing her. "No! NO! NO!" With a final scream, the witch disappeared.

PART TWELVE

Leo regained his feet and walked over to them. Piper rushed over and hugged him, then embraced her little sister tightly. "Are you okay?" Piper asked her.

"I'm not sure," Phoebe replied.

"Well, let's go home where we can talk about it," Piper said, supporting her sister. They started to walk out the club, which had become normal once more.

Leo smiled at Prue as they stepped back. "I told you it would work."

"Yeah, you're very lucky it did," Prue told him.

Piper turned around. "Are you two coming?"

"I'll wait until the assistant manager can get here. You two go ahead," Prue told her knowing that they probably needed to be alone.

Piper handed Phoebe her car keys. "Why don't you meet me in the car?" Once Phoebe was out of sight, Piper turned to her older sister. "Are you sure about this?"

Prue nodded. "Yeah, she needs you. There is nothing else I can say."

"If your sure?" Piper checked. "Be back soon, okay? Oh! One more thing."

"Yeah?" Prue questioned.

"I'm sorry."

"It's okay," Prue replied, hugging her.

"What about you?" Piper asked Leo.

"I'm going to clear it all with 'Them'," Leo explained.

"Okay, will I see you later?" Piper asked.

Leo smiled. "As soon as I'm done."

* * * * *

Phoebe was sitting in her bedroom with Piper. She had changed into her nightclothes and Piper into a t-shirt and jeans. "I prefer you looking like that," Phoebe told her.

"It's a lot more comfortable, and much more me," Piper replied.

"It's good to have you back."

"I'm so sorry about all that. I should have been here for you," Piper apologized.

Phoebe nearly formed a smile. "Hey, I know what it's like to be under a spell like that."

"There you go. I knew you could still smile," Piper told her.

"Just about," Phoebe replied.

"Do you want to tell me all about it?" Piper asked.

"Yeah."

Piper settled back on her sister's bed. "Okay, start at the beginning."

* * * * *

Back at the club, Prue turned to Leo. "So have you really got to go and see 'Them'?"

"Not exactly," Leo told her.

Prue smiled, "I thought so."

"Yeah, I thought Phoebe might need her more tonight than me," Leo explained. "Besides I want to show you something."

"You want me to take a look at something, you've got for her?" Prue asked, smiling.

"Something like that," Leo tells her getting a ring box out of his pocket.

"Your not going to..." Prue began.

Leo opened the box. "Yeah, do you think she'll like it?

"I think she'll love it," Prue told him.

"So this is okay with you?" Leo asked.

"Of course it is, but you don't need to run it by me," Prue laughed.

"I just thought I'd check out what you thought first," Leo explained shyly.

"What would you have done if I'd have said no, it wasn't okay?" Prue asked.

"I'd have still asked her anyway, because I love her and want her to be my wife."

Prue smiled, "That's just what I wanted to hear."

Phoebe was now sound asleep, with Piper sitting over her little sister. She looked peacefully asleep. Piper assumed, that she had got it all off her chest.

* * * * *

Phoebe was walking with Nick in Golden Gate Park. She looked up to him and smiled.

"I'm so sorry," Phoebe told him.

"It wasn't your fault," Nick replied.

"I helped get rid of you," Phoebe pointed out.

"You only did what you had to," Nick said. Phoebe leaned forward to kiss him but Nick stepped back. "What's wrong?" she asked.

"You need to move on Pheebs. Forget about me and the baby," Nick explained.

Phoebe shok her head. "I'll never be able to do that. I'll never forget either of you."

"I love you," he smiled.

"I love you too, and I'm going to miss you," Phoebe said, looking down.

"Cheer up, hey," Nick told her.

"I'll try," she replied.

"Do it for me. I don't want you to waste away, thinking about me."

Phoebe smiled, "Okay." She walked through the park, sun shining above, toward the future.

The End.

Image by FlamingText.com