DISCLAIMER & AUTHOR'S NOTE: As usual, anyone you have seen on the show does not belong to me. I wish they did, but wishes don't always come true. Anyway, that’s how it goes.
I was doing some research for a psych assignment one night on school violence and happened to read through a load of articles on shootings. It got me thinking about how the Charmed Ones would've handled such a situation without their powers at a younger age. For any of you who have read my other stories, it seems kinda obvious that Phoebe's my favorite and so I decided to write a story on that. I didn't think the idea was worth working on until I read 'When Children Are Soldiers'. Thanx Jillian for unknowingly helping me out. I'm not someone who likes to stray away from things, so it took me quite a while to think up a plot line that would fit in with my other stories. The main idea came after watching 'Pre-witched'. I think its kinda far-fetched but hell, its my world, and I can do whatever I please, including letting my imagination run wild!! Enjoy and please send feedback! I know that some of the songs I've used in the story weren't even released back then, but it is my world and I really couldn't find suitable alternatives. This is my second go at analyzing the sister's minds and thoughts since I did it the first time during one of my first fan fics, 'The Test.'
This story is basically the sequel to 'Truly Perfect'. It would be easier for any new reader if you read my other fan fics coz it does make some references, for example, the sisters' backgrounds and lives don't lead exactly from the show.

Phoebe sighed and smiled slightly as she pulled her car into the driveway of Halliwell manor. Her fiancés black Camaro, Piper's Cherokee and Prue's Miata were all there, suggesting their presence. Phoebe slowly turned the doorknob for the front door and pushed it open. Making her way to the kitchen, she was greeted by Prue and Bane making out with a Kevin scrunching his nose up. Phoebe shook her head as they pulled apart. She felt tingles travel down her spine as Kevin pressed a soft kiss against her lips. She returned it lightly. Pulling apart she opened the fridge and grabbed an Evian. "How about a triple date at Spago's?" Kevin suggested, winking at Phoebe. "As long as you're paying, fine," Prue teased. "Why not? Something normal for a change," Piper agreed enthusiastically. Prue and Piper shot Phoebe a glance. "Uh, I think I'll pass," she said with a sigh. "You're working?" Kevin questioned, sounding disappointed. They were all surprised when she shook her head. "I'm on call as always, but I won't be much company." "Something wrong?" Prue and Piper asked simultaneously. Phoebe shook her head weakly. "Don't mean to spoil your fun, but I really need some time to myself," she explained. Piper sighed, Prue raised her eyebrows and Kevin frowned. "Pheebs, this came in the mail today," Piper said, handing her an envelope. Phoebe ripped it open and perched on the edge of the counter as she read it. Piper watched her sister flinch involuntarily. Phoebe glanced up looking at Piper. "You know about this?" Piper nodded. "And you're okay with it?" Piper nodded again in response. "Why shouldn't I be?" "What's going on?" Bane questioned curiously. "Phoebe's high school reunion is at P3 next week," Prue explained. "So, why the frown?" Leo asked. He knew that of the sisters Piper had the unhappiest time in high school, Prue had it okay, but Phoebe was supposed to have been super popular, which was not entirely surprising. "Come on, volleyball captain, girls' track champ, class president," Piper began "Not to forget homecoming queen, prom queen, class valedictorian and head of the student body," Prue filled in. Both older sisters noticed Phoebe's eyes flash with pain when they said prom queen and class valedictorian and it struck them sharply just why Phoebe wasn't keen on going, but it was too late. "What date is it?" Phoebe questioned seriously. "9th," Kevin offered cautiously. Phoebe turned to her sisters. "Have you guys forgotten why Baker High was on the headline news this day 1994? Remember how I got this?" she demanded, her eyes filled with pain as she held up her right wrist, before hopping off the counter. "Kevin, I'm sorry. But I really need to be on my own tonight," she said apologetically. He nodded, seeing the pain in her eyes, just as she stormed out of the house. "What was that about?" Kevin asked, watching Phoebe go. He looked questioningly at Prue and Piper, his eyes almost accusing them of something. Prue and Piper exchanged guilty expressions. "What is it?" Leo reiterated, concerned for his youngest charge. Prue sighed deeply. "I can't believe it totally slipped my mind." "Me neither. How could we have forgotten?" Piper agreed with a shudder. Seeing the expressions on their beau and Kevin's faces, they exchanged glances again. "About a couple of days before Phoebe's graduation and prom, there was a shootout by some of the juniors, I think," Prue left off as Piper continued. Kevin gasped in horror. Leo's eyes widened. "Phoebe was shot, her left wrist shattered, but worse, one of her best friends was killed." Leo gasped. "I didn't know. You weren't witches then either," he mumbled. "Leo, don't start. You had no idea," Prue told him. "What exactly happened?" Bane asked, surprised that Phoebe hadn't mentioned it before. Prue shook her head. "Phoebe never talked about it, still hasn't. We were both in college and even moved back in after it, but she refused to tell us what happened." "She used to spend ages with her other best friend, Carrie and Gary Evans," Piper said distantly. "They must have been close," Kevin said quietly, wondering why Phoebe had never told him. "They were. Ever since Phoebe started school."
******
Meanwhile, Phoebe had driven to a fabulous spot at Golden Gate Park. She left her car further back and started up the slope, ducking to avoid the low branches. She continued for about ten minutes before reaching a clearing. Stopping to take a deep, calming breath, she stepped forward towards the edge of a ridge, gazing out at the breathtaking view below. Phoebe felt the tears well up in her eyes as her eyes scanned the wilderness around her. She turned her gaze to a bare flat rock and smiled through her tears as she dropped to her knees in front of it. Carved on the face of the rock was a large heart with the words 'Friends 4 Eva' engraved on the inside. Around the outside, the initials P.H., C.F., and J.A, were also imprinted. Phoebe closed her eyes, thinking back to the time almost 20 years ago, when she and her friends had first discovered this spot and rock and had made their mark. That was two decades ago, but it still seemed like yesterday. "It's been so long, and yet I still miss you my friend," she whispered to the air. As fresh tears rolled down her cheeks, she continued softly. "I will always mourn for the times we could've and should've had together, but I will for ever cherish the memories we did share. They will remain treasured for eternity."
******
That night, their light moods being dampened by what was revealed to them, the dinner date at Spago's went wasted. Prue lay in bed, drifting asleep, her thoughts back ten years ago to that fateful morning when she and Piper had received the news. Unbeknownst to her, Piper was on the same train of thought back in her own room.
To the past?/b>
They had been home for lunch at their apartment when they received the anxious phone call from Grams. She hadn't explained much, just insisted that they get to Baker High as soon as possible and that it was about their baby sister. Prue had known immediately that it was serious, Grams would never interfere with their lives unnecessarily. Without delay, she and Piper had driven to their old school, but what they saw was something that would forever remain in their minds. The police had barricaded the parking lot and there were almost a dozen squad cars and ambulances. Andy's father had been there and he explained the situation to them. Prue remembered the way her throat constricted, the ashen gray color of Grams' face and Piper's horrified expression, eyes filling with tears. For all they knew, their baby sister could be lying inside dead and there was nothing they could do about it. Then, an officer called Inspector Trudeau. "Sir, there's a student, a Phoebe Haliwell, who wants to speak with you over the phone." Prue had felt her heart soar and her hope renewed. Her sister and grandmother shared the feeling. They had started forward, but were forced back by the officer. "Sorry, we can't let you pass." An officer stopped them. Grams huffed in frustration. "I'll get back to you," Andy's father had promised as he stepped through. When Andy's father returned, his expression was grim. "What?" the three Haliwells asked in unison. "She's okay," he assured, pausing hesitantly. Penny eyed him warily. "Can't you get them out?" she demanded anxiously, her concern showing. Inspector Trudeau looked away. "They know how to get out. I'm sure of it," he began, pausing again. "But?" Prue prompted impatiently. "She won't. They are going to try to take the gunmen down." At that moment, Prue felt a jumbled mixture of emotions curse through her veins. She was outraged that her sister would so easily endanger her own life, but at the same time, the admiration she held was immense. Prue cast a glance at Piper, who had gone pale and had fear written all over her face and Prue felt it too. Her little sister could die trying to save her friends, and all she could do was helplessly wait outside.
Over the next two hours, they heard several shots being fired, and each time the bang rang out, Prue felt herself holding her breath.
A little over two hours later, a side door opened and a girl, most likely a freshman stepped outside fearfully. "Its over," she called out, her voice choked with emotion, as she collapsed to her knees, her body racking with sobs. Piper's heart went out to the young girl who had to witness such an event, but then her thoughts went to her own sister. As all the students began filing out shakily, a lot of them with tears running down their faces and their clothes stained with the blood, Prue, Piper and Grams watched apprehensively for Phoebe's appearance. She never came, even when the last of the students came out. Almost a minute later, the door opened again and escorted by Andy's father and one other officer were Phoebe, Carrie Foster and Gary Evans, all three of them seniors in the same class. The first thing Piper noticed was the jacket soaked in blood that was wrapped tightly around Phoebe's right hand. "Oh god." Prue and Grams saw it too and drew in a sharp breath. As Phoebe and her friends drew closer, Prue could notice the tears and blood streaks all over her face and her white shirt, which had gone from clean white to reddish-brown. Her beige cargo pants were also stained with blood. Even from the distance she could make out the pained expression in her sister's eyes and that she was biting her lower lip. They seemed to be talking softly among themselves, and then suddenly, Phoebe stopped, pulling Carrie in for a tearful hug as best as she could, without causing herself anymore pain. Realization hit Prue like a ton of bricks. There was something missing in that scene. "Jodie," Piper whispered fearfully, coming to the same conclusion. Piper drew in a sharp breath voicing her older sister's thoughts. Ever since they could remember Phoebe, Carrie and Jodie Auburn had been best friends. From 1st grade water gun battles, to cheerleading practice, volleyball matches, athletics meets, parties, dates, movies. Everything Phoebe did involved Carrie and Jodie, and vice versa. They had been so close from the beginning that Prue and Piper considered Carrie and Jodie as little sisters as well. They were around so often. Jodie's absence from this hug could only mean one thing…she was dead. If she was wounded, there was no way Phoebe or Carrie would leave her side. Phoebe and Carrie separated as Andy's dad said something to her. She turned toward her sisters and Grams and mouthed an, "I'm fine," forcing a weak smile through her tears. Two paramedics approached them and Phoebe held out her wrist, wincing in pain. The trio were led towards an ambulance and guided inside. Inspector Trudeau told her family where Phoebe was being taken and left. Grams, Prue and Piper piled into Grams' car and drove to the hospital as fast as the law would permit, but it was all in vain. On reaching the hospital, Grams asked about Phoebe, but all that the nurse would tell them was that she was in surgery. That scared them all. Phoebe had insisted that she was fine, but what would she be doing in surgery if that were the case? It was almost an hour and a half before they were led into a Recovery Room, where each of them was immensely relieved to see Phoebe sitting up on the bed, her legs swung off the side. Prue and Piper grabbed her carefully in a fierce hug. Phoebe responded lightly, not saying a word. "Thank god you're okay!" Penny said, relief evident in her voice, for more than one reason. Phoebe's right hand was in a firm cast, and she was still in the bloody clothes she had been wearing earlier. "Miss Haliwell, I want you to sign these papers and collect this prescription of painkillers. Tablets and syringes included," the lady doctor informed Penny, after explaining that Phoebe had undergone surgery to reorganize her shattered wrist. Penny was just about to mention that Phoebe disliked all medicines, and that she hated injections when Phoebe spoke up. "Grams, just take the shots. No need pills." She turned to the doctor expectantly. "Can you give me one now?" The doctor nodded as she prepared to inject the Demerol. Prue and Piper exchanged glances. Phoebe was definitely in pain, otherwise she would never ask for medicine, yet alone accept it. Phoebe bit her lip as the doctor injected the medicine, but made no complaints. As Grams signed the release papers, Phoebe wordlessly slid off the bed, starting out of the room. Her sisters followed her out to the emergency parking area and let her take the front seat beside Grams, who was driving. As the engine started up, the radio came on. Phoebe turned her gaze towards the window, staring out at nothing in particular, tears streaming steadily down her face. Clouds were gathering, indicating a storm brewing. The weather matched her mood; Sad, sorrowful and gloomy. A familiar tune came out on the radio.
"How can I just let you walk away,
Just let you leave without a trace,
When I stand here taking every breath with you,
You're the only one who really knew me at all,
How can you just walk away from me,
When all I can do is watch you leave,
Coz we've shared the laughter and the pain,
We've even shared the tears,
You're the only one who really knew me at all,
So take a look at me now,
Coz there's just an empty space,
There's nothing left here to remind me,
Just the memory of your face,
So take a look at me now,
Coz there's just an empty space,
And you coming back to me is against the odds,
And that's what I've got to face,
I wish I could just make you turn around,
Turn around and see me cry,
There's so much I need to say to you,
So many reasons why,
You're the only one who really knew me at all,
So take a look at me now,
Coz there's just an empty space,
There's nothing left here to remind me,
Just the memory of your face,
So take a look at me now,
Coz there's just an empty space,
But to wait for you is all I can do,
And that's what I've got to face,
So take a look at me now.
Coz I'll still be standing here,
And you coming back to me is against all odds,
And that's a chance I've got to take."
Phoebe turned, bringing the fist of her good hand down on the radio knob with a slam, turning it off. Grams, Prue and Piper jumped with surprise as Phoebe vented out a good deal of emotion with that simple action. The rest of the drive home was silent and no one dared to break it. As soon as Grams pulled up outside the manor, Phoebe immediately opened the door and hurried inside, two concerned sisters and a worried grandmother in tow. A minute later, they heard the upstairs bathroom slam shut. Prue and Piper turned to Penny, whose gaze was riveted at the stairs. "I don't know. Physically, she will make a full recovery, but inside, there is a lot of internal suffering," Grams said quietly, answering her older granddaughters' unspoken question. "Grams, it's not fair. Why her? Why this family?" Piper asked softly, her voice shaking. Penny pulled them in for a hug. "I wish I could answer that. All we can do is be there and support her through this."
When Phoebe came out of the bathroom an hour later, she was wearing her Pajamas and had her bloody clothes in her hand. Her hair was wet, and she looked refreshed. She didn't seem very happy when she found both older sisters waiting outside the door. She ignored them and started for the stairs with the dirty clothes, but Prue stopped her. "Here, let me get those," she volunteered, taking the bundle and going down. "Are you hungry?" Piper asked gently. Phoebe shook her head, her stomach churning at the memory of the school cafeteria. She brushed past her older sister and into her bedroom, making a point of locking the door behind her. Prue met Piper in the hallway, and silently, they went up to their little sister's door. Crouching down, they peered in through the keyhole. Phoebe was sitting on the edge of her bed, holding a framed picture in her hand, unstoppable tears falling from her eyes. She hugged the picture to her chest and fell back onto the bed, sobbing uncontrollably. Prue felt her heart go out to her baby sister. She knew what was on that picture. It had been there for ages on Phoebe's bedside table, beside one of the three sisters together. It was another one with three girls, only it was of the youngest Haliwell with her two best friends. Piper felt tears sting at her own eyes as she struggled to keep them in.
Prue and Piper didn't know how long they sat there, but it was only when their sister finally drifted off to sleep that they stood. It was going to be a long healing process and it had barely even begun yet. They called in to college and said they wouldn't be coming back and prepared to move back home temporarily at least.
When Grams found out, she agreed gratefully. "She needs you more than she's prepared to admit. Stubbornness is definitely in the Haliwell genes." Prue and Piper nodded and Grams smiled slightly, looking at Prue. "For two sisters who clash so often, you do have a lot in common," Piper added, grinning slightly. Prue just shook her head, but her admiration for her baby sister was evident. Grams sighed thoughtfully. If they only knew what adulthood and the future held for them together.
Phoebe slept restlessly, waking several times throughout the night from horrible nightmares in which she kept reliving that day. She wanted to talk about it, to tell her sisters and even Grams, but she was afraid. It hurt too much just to think about it and she was afraid of how they would react when they found out the truth. Thankfully for her, Prue and Piper let her be for the time being, but she knew it wouldn't last long. Her fears were confirmed when the next morning, Piper knocked on her door. "Pheebs, breakfast is ready. I made strawberry pancakes," Piper announced, knowing it was her favorite. Phoebe sighed, dragging herself to the door. She had changed earlier into a baggy black T-shirt and jeans with much difficulty being unable to use her right hand. She ran a comb through her hair and looked presentable if not for the puffy and red eyes from all the crying. "Thanks, Piper," she said softly, managing a small smile for her sister. Piper merely wrapped an arm round her shoulders, hoping Phoebe wouldn't pull away. She didn't. Piper was glad that she could do at least this much even if her sister wouldn't allow any more comforting. This was how they entered the kitchen. Phoebe gave Prue and Grams the same smile she had for Piper, but said nothing more than a soft greeting. Sitting down, she brought her injured hand to rest on the table and winced in pain. With a resigned sigh, she handed Grams a syringe. "Grams?quot; "Of course dear." Phoebe looked away as Grams gave her the shot. "Thanks." Grams merely squeezed her shoulder gently. Prue cut up her buttered pancakes and set the plate in front of her. Phoebe thanked her and set about eating her food, but her thoughts kept going back to the events of the day before and she felt the bile rising in her throat. She rushed to the sink and doubled over. Her sisters were by her side in a minute. Prue helped her rinse her mouth and back to the table. Phoebe pushed the plate away. "Sorry. It's not the pancakes, just me," she told Piper, reaching for the milk and pouring herself a glass. Piper gave her a smile and a nod, but couldn't hide her concern. What had her baby sister seen that made her sick just by looking at food? They remained in silence until the doorbell rang. Grams went to answer it. She came back a minute later. "Phoebe, Inspector Trudeau is here. You don't have to talk to him if you don’t want to." "That's right, Phoebe. I can come back when you feel ready," Andy's father assured her. Phoebe shook her head. "I want to get it over with," she said quietly, standing up and walking out into the foyer. Phoebe went past and out the front door, waiting for Andy's father to come out. He did, and she was thankful when no one else followed him. "Is it okay to drive around?" she asked softly. He nodded and wordlessly opened his car door for her, sensing she didn't want her sisters to hear her story. As they drove around the neighborhood, Phoebe answered all the questions in detail but refrained from offering additional information. She asked him just one question of her own. "Did any of the boys survive?" Phoebe questioned, her voice barely above a whisper. Andy's father eyed her carefully. "Yes. Two were found in the kitchen unconscious." Phoebe turned to look at him, her expression resigned and fearful. "Am I under arrest for?for?killing the other four?" "You?quot; the Inspector trailed off. Phoebe just nodded. "No, you're not. It was an act of self-defense, or otherwise survival. Besides, your actions saved almost another hundred lives," he told her warmly. "It was brave and dangerous. Your friends told me how intrepid you were," he complimented softly, as he drew outside her house. Phoebe said nothing for a moment. Just as they reached the front door, she turned to look up at her sister's boyfriend's father. "Protecting the innocent, not punishing the guilty. The wrong thing done for the right reason, still the wrong thing," she said softly, her brown eyes meeting with his gray ones for a long moment. Then the door opened and Phoebe silently went straight up to her room. Little did she know, that one day in the future, she would once again use these very same words, only in a different context.
***
Edward Trudeau was met with the faces of the three older Haliwells. He sighed. "I can't tell you what she told me," he said quietly, yet firmly. "She needs to open up to someone and that someone is you," he added with concern, directing his last comment at the sisters.
Back to the present?/font>Piper?
Piper sighed deeply. Phoebe had never told her or anyone else what happened that day. It was amazing how someone who went through such a horrible ordeal could eventually heal all on their own and still be the wonderfully cheerful and outgoing person that her baby sister was. But deep down she knew that Phoebe hadn't been alone.
I knew from watching them after coming out to the school parking lot that, through whatever happened, Carrie and Gary had been with Phoebe. For the weeks that followed that incident Carrie and Gary hung around her a lot and their hours of endless conversation had probably helped each of them heal individually.
Piper closed her eyes again, wondering about the million possibilities of things that could have happened.
She remembered how Phoebe had retaliated when she and Prue had dared to push the question on the morning of Jodie's funeral?/b>
Flashback to the past?/b>
Prue and Piper were in the kitchen helping Grams out with the cooking when Phoebe came downstairs. She still hardly spoke more than a few necessary words to any of them, and it worried Piper especially. Phoebe would always come to her with anything, whatever problem, whatever question, and even then, Piper could go to her the same way. Prue didn't know her sister that well, but she knew her well enough to realize that her 18-year-old baby sister was still in a great amount of emotional pain. Phoebe had tried to cover most of it up and act nonchalant by being obedient and even asking them both to sign her cast. She had a number of signatures on it by now.
Without a word, Phoebe opened the fridge and withdrew a bottle of mineral water. She struggled to twist the cap off. Penny saw her frustration and was quick to come to her aid. She took the bottle, opened it and handed it back to her granddaughter, trying to meet eyes with her. Phoebe did, only for a brief moment. "Grams?" "Yes, dear." "I want to go." "Go where?" "To…to…Jodie's funeral. This afternoon." "Of course dear. I'll come with you." "So will we," Prue spoke up. "You don't have to?quot; Phoebe began, but Piper stopped her. "We want to." Phoebe let out a sigh and sat down on a stool. "What are you doing?" she asked, making an effort to start a decent conversation after almost a week of near silence. Grams smiled at her. "Chocolate chip angel cookies, my specialty." Phoebe cracked a half-smile of her own as she took a drink of her bottle, but offered no words and an uncomfortable silence followed.
"Phoebe, do you want to tell us what happened?" Piper asked hesitantly. She usually waited for her sisters to come to her, not the other way round. Phoebe's expression turned sour and Piper flinched inwardly. "No, I don't." "Why?" Prue asked softly. "You just won't understand," Phoebe told her, eyes flashing with pain. "We would if you just tell us," Prue protested. "Phoebe, you mean everything to us. We care so much about you, and yet you turn to your friends instead of us," Piper added, sounding slightly hurt.
"You expect me to believe that? When was the last time you even called just to see how I was doing? It was a month and a half ago, and it so happened that I picked up but in reality you wanted to speak to Grams about something. I haven't seen either of you in over a damn month, and suddenly you just move back in expecting me to pour my heart out!" Phoebe retorted fiercely. "Phoebe!" Grams intervened sharply.
"Well, I can't remember the last time you called us either!" Prue said, genuinely hurt. "In that case, you guys should check your stupid machine! Why leave messages if no one's gonna even return the call!" "Phoebe! Your sisters have been busy!" Grams tried again. "Too busy to even call and say hi! To busy to check the answering machine! Too busy to damn well care! If it hadn't been for this, I wouldn't see you until the semester's over!" Phoebe exploded, her eyes blazing with pain. "Maybe that's why I turn to my friends! Coz they're never too busy. Coz they're here every single day and they care! They know how I feel and they understand and I don't ever have to leave over a dozen messages for them to call me back!" The outburst was followed by a stunned silence. Not even Grams said anything. Then Phoebe spoke, her voice barely above a whisper. "Even if things were different, you could never understand how I feel. You have no idea how much it hurts to think about how one minute you're discussing prom dresses and the next you're watching your best friend die right in front of you?" Prue and Piper felt tears sting their eyes. "You don't really understand, and I hope that you nor any one else ever does. Spare yourselves the pain," Phoebe whispered as she left the kitchen.
Prue and Piper turned to Penny without a word, expecting to be reprimanded. "I know you've been busy…she does too, but you attacked her ways of dealing and hurt her feelings, so she got defensive and grasped for straws," Grams told them quietly. "Grams, will she be okay?" Penny sighed deeply, a small smile on her face. "As much as you two like to believe she's still your baby sister who wakes up in the middle of the night and crawls into your bed, she's not. She's 18 and what's happened over the past few days has made her more mature than ever. But she's as tough and as stubborn as a Haliwell woman could ever be. She'll make it, and she'll need you to do it, but not the way you're prepared to help." "How are we supposed to help her, Grams?" Prue asked, for the first time admitting that she didn't know what to do. "Let her come to you, and if she doesn't, accept that and deal with it. Phoebe never means to hurt anyone, but she prefers to keep her issues to herself. Why? I don't know, but it was something your mother did as she was growing up."
Back to the present?/font>Prue?/font>
Prue rolled over, unable to will herself to sleep.
Grams was right. She never replaced mum, but she did a good job and could read us all like books. When we were younger, Phoebe used to go to Piper mostly. I was merely the substitute when Piper wasn't available. But as she grew older, Phoebe chose to answer her own questions and deal with her issues on her own. I realize now that that was probably the real reason Phoebe left for New York. She needed to be on her own, to do things her own way and find the answers. The Roger issue was merely the push needed to get her going. As Grams had said, though Phoebe never knew Mum, she is similar to her in many ways.
Piper?/b>
I still wish Phoebe had confided in me the events of that day. It would have made things so much easier. Somehow I know that Phoebe has the memories as vivid and fresh in her head now as she had then. But then, how could anyone ever forget the day that shattered your whole world. At Jodie's funeral that day, I saw and heard my baby sister's pain and internal suffering, the emotions which she had chosen not to reveal to anyone but herself. It never ceases to amaze me; How, even after all this pain - the loss of a mother, the knowledge of being abandoned by a father, the death of a best friend, the sacrifice of a soul mate and the passing of a dear grandmother - my little sister still has the biggest, purest and most caring heart I have ever known?
Her mind wandered back to the after noon at the cemetery.
Flashback to the past?/b>
As the priest read out his sermon and final rites, there was a large gathering in front of him. Many were students from Baker High, some were teachers, others were friends and family. In the front row sat Jodie's parents and older brother, Max, who was Piper's age, and not far from them were seated all the graduating seniors at Baker High, Phoebe, Gary and Carrie included. Phoebe was seated next to her living best friend, Carrie, Grams and her sisters just a row behind. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she thought about the years of her life and the fact that one of the most important people in it was no longer going to be there. Jodie's body lay silently in the coffin, her soul already somewhere up in heaven. As they stood up one by one, Phoebe knelt beside the coffin, placing two roses on it. A yellow one for friendship and a red one for love. Placing a tender kiss against the side she whispered into the air, knowing that somewhere, somehow, her friend was listening. "Thanks for letting me be a part of your life, Jodie. I hope you're happy up there in heaven. If you see my mom, say hi for me. I miss you, my friend. Mom, please take care of her like you never got to take care of me." Piper, who was standing behind her, heard her sister's words.
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Back to the present?/font>Piper?/font>
Piper blinked back the tears.
Phoebe's lonely and pained voice still rang out clearly in my head as it had done for years. Phoebe always acted like not knowing Mom never bothered her, but I knew from that day onwards that Phoebe regretted every moment of not being able to remember her. I didn't understand until now why Phoebe had so whole-heartedly embraced our heritage, even after knowing that her gift, premonitions brought with it a lot of emotional baggage. Our powers are the one thing about Mom that Phoebe could cling to, without any memories. And it was the same heritage that took us back in time, finally giving Phoebe the chance to meet the mother she had missed out on for so long. How painful it must have been to have not more than a few memories of Mom, but the clearest one being of her last living moments. I saw the same lonely, pained look in my sister's eyes as she came out of the premonition after touching Sam, but I did nothing. Phoebe never said anything about it afterwards, again she had stubbornly decided to deal with her emotions on her own. Many would think that Prue and Phoebe were like night and day, but I know from experience that both my vastly different siblings have more in common than they let on. While Prue chooses to push her feelings underground, hiding them from both herself and those around her, Phoebe suppresses them, only letting them surface later own when she was alone. Her ability to push her emotions aside and not let them cloud her judgement was what makes Phoebe the emotionally strongest. She demonstrated this feat when we traveled to the future to stop her from being burned at the stake and even later, when Prue was kidnapped by one of the four Apocalypse horsemen. In the real world, she has to do that everyday as a doctor. I also know from over 25 years of experience, that pushing aside her feelings did not mean that Phoebe didn't even consider them. My baby sister has a way of getting into people's heads and their hearts. She seeks to bring out the good in people and bring it victory. It was a battle she once fought herself, and she knows it is not an easy one. Phoebe would never admit to me, but after her run-in with the Woogyman, my little sister has been a lot more wary about herself, almost as if she doubted the good within her. Again, to my frustration, Phoebe has taken it upon herself to handle it on her own.
Why? Why can't you turn to us? Why do you choose to seek answers on your own? Why the hell are you so damn independent? I would help you in any way I can, with anything. Prue would too, but still, you deal on your own, but are always there to help me when I need it - With Leo, Dan and everything else. Pheebs please don't shut us out. I need your smile, your hug and your words when I cry, but I need to feel like it's okay to cry on your shoulder by being there for you. Why won't you let me? I'm your older sister, not the other way round and I need to be able to be there for you. How can I, when you never tell anyone what goes on behind those large brown eyes that make my day every day? Just why Pheebs?
Piper sighed again. Phoebe had demonstrated this yet again?/b>
Flashback?/b>
The service was over, and Jodie's coffin had been laid to rest for eternity. Phoebe and Carrie watched their friend's physical form, never again to bless this Earth, as it was being lowered. Phoebe felt her eyes stinging with unshed tears as she stubbornly held them back. Wordlessly the two remaining best friends wrapped their arms around each other in a hug, drawing silent comfort and strength from each other. They separated and started away from the gathering when a soft, familiar voice called to them. "Phoebe, Carrie!" They both turned to see Max, Jodie's older brother, who used to be in Piper's class, coming towards them. He had the same clear blue eyes as his sister, and Phoebe bit back the sob. "Hi Max."
Max approached his little sister's best friends, who even he thought of as little sisters. He could see Prue and Piper approaching in the distance. Phoebe gave him a soft greeting. He could see his own pain and suffering reflected in her eyes. He blinked back tears. "Guys, I was…Was going through Jodie's stuff and I found these," he explained, handing them an envelope each with their names on it. "She left it for you." Phoebe closed her eyes as more tears fell. It was barely a month ago that the three of them had decided to write these letters. It had been a joke, because they would all get their driving licenses and they were teasing each other on accidents. She looked at Carrie and knew she was thinking the same thing. "How are you holding up?" Phoebe asked softly, concern springing out from the pain. Max smiled through his own tears. "Not any better than you are. I miss her…a lot. The house is so empty without her…so quiet and gloomy." He couldn't believe he was pouring his heart out to his sister's friends when he had refused to discuss it with anyone else. Carrie nodded simply. "That's how it feels in here. I can't believe she's gone…she didn't deserve to die," she whispered. Phoebe squeezed her hand. "I can't imagine life without her…Max, it was so unfair. Those bastards just walked into the hall and started…started shooting," she continued. Max pulled them both in for a brotherly hug. He knew that they were suffering from more than the loss of a friend. "She said she loved you…all of you," Phoebe said quietly. When she spoke, her words came out in a hoarse whisper, but loud enough for Prue and Piper to hear. Max gulped, unable to hold back his tears. "You were there?" Phoebe and Carrie could only nod. Max sensed their reluctance to indulge in those horrific memories. "You guys better come around our house okay? Jodie wouldn't be very happy if you didn't," he told them, attempting a smile. Phoebe tried one too. "She's a good person. She's in a good place," Phoebe assured softly, as much to herself as to Max.
***
It was only when Grams was driving them back home that Phoebe and Carrie opened their letters. Each read it silently, tears streaming down their faces. They exchanged glances and Phoebe closed her eyes to gather strength to speak. "Grams, stop here." Penny pulled over near the entrance to Golden Gate Park. Phoebe and Carrie both hopped out. "We won't be long, Grams. You go on home." It was a pleaded request. Penny only nodded as she watched them disappear into the greenery. "Grams? Do you want us to go after them?" Prue asked anxiously. Penny sighed and shook her head with a rueful smile. "No. They both need to be there…alone, with someone who understands each other's pain." "We feel it too, Grams," Prue said, offended. Penny looked at her oldest granddaughter's piercing gray eyes. "I know it hurts you seeing her in pain, but she needs to be understood, she needs someone who feels just like she does, and the only person who comes even close to that is Carrie, and she needs Phoebe too." Piper sighed in concern. "I wish she would come to us." "She will in time. When she's ready to voice herself, right now it’s a silent conversation because both she and Carrie feel exactly the same way. She will turn to you. She always does, sooner or later," Grams assured.
Back to Present?Piper?/b>
How much later is later, Grams? It can't be as long as 25 years. That's how long it's been since that day, and still she hasn't come to us. Will she ever? Does she even have contact with Carrie anymore? I don't think so…not after Carrie moved to New Jersey. Will Carrie come for the reunion?
Piper snapped out of her thoughts at the sound of a pager beeping in the next room, her baby sister's. She heard shuffling and then the door opened, and she heard Phoebe hurrying out and down the stairs. A minute later, the sound of a car pulling out of the driveway reached her ears. Piper sighed deeply.
This happens very often, either during a meal, or date or even at the club. She's paged nearly all the time. We hardly have sister time without her getting called away. It's as bad as Leo is, but worst of all, Phoebe never ignores it. Whatever is happening, she always leaves, even if it is a demon. She makes sure we can handle it and then disappears. My sister, the homebound Haliwell is hardly ever home these days. Its not just that she doesn't come to us with problems anymore, its also that she never spends more time with us, just a quick, 'Hi gotta go,' in the mornings and the demon vanquishing. That's about it, the sister who made sure we spent an all girls night every so often can hardly ever attend anymore. And when she's home early, she's dead tired or out on a date with Kevin. He's complaining but he sees a lot more of her than we do. And now, she's engaged. In a couple of months, she'll get married and move out and then we'll never see her. I'm about to loose my baby sister.
¡¡
Prue?/b>
It's been so long since you assured us that Phoebe would come to us, but even after so long, I still have no idea whatsoever happened on that awful day, and I'm sure Piper doesn’t either. I always thought Phoebe was the youngest, the baby of the family, but in a way, she has more real life experience than Piper and me put together. I've never ever had to handle a gun, let alone use it. The first time I ever picked up a weapon was after we became witches, and yet, Phoebe had done it even before graduating from high school. That was a while ago, but even now, the things and people Phoebe is forced to handle every day at the hospital are things Piper and me would never do, and yet she's still my baby.
There she goes again. Its almost midnight, but my sister is off again to the hospital. I just wish, for a while I could have my baby back. I know she's in there somewhere, behind those beautiful brown eyes that have looked into mine for years, but everything on the outside reminds me of…well...she reminds me of me. I guess that's why we clash so often. We're way too alike for our own good. And now, my baby is engaged. Its not that I'm not happy for her, but it means my baby is gonna be married soon, and knowing Phoebe, she'll be a mother real soon too.
*****
The next morning, as Prue and Piper ate their breakfast in silence, they heard a car pulling up in the driveway, and minutes later Phoebe entered he kitchen, looking sleepy. "Morning," she greeted, unable to suppress a yawn, as she sat down with a cup of coffee. "Night, is more like it!" Piper said. Phoebe flashed them a tired smile. "I don't know how you do it," Prue told her with a shake of her head. "Practice. I used to spend my nights at nightclubs before. Now, I do it in a busy hospital!" "That, and the humor!" Piper added, also smiling, seeing her sister in better spirits. "Pheebs, sorry for the insensitivity last night," Prue apologized. "Me too." Phoebe sighed. "I shouldn't have over-reacted to begin with. I'm glad you guys can actually forget it, coz I just can't." "Pheebs, you know I can always refuse P3. After all one third is yours," Piper told her. Phoebe shook her head. "My problem isn't the venue, it’s the event. Ever since graduating, I've been dreading the reunion," she said with sigh. "So, will you go?" Prue asked quietly. "I don't know. I'm not sure if I'm ready to deal with that just yet, if ever. I just don't know," Phoebe replied and then smiled impishly before continuing. "Since, quote, 'Big sisters know best' unquote, what would you do?" Prue and Piper exchanged glances with raised eyebrows. "I don't know, Pheebs. We don't know what really happened," Prue began cautiously, as she saw Phoebe's expression grow somber. "We're not asking you to tell us anything, but the bottom line is that its your decision," she added quickly. "I know, but it hurts just to think about it, I don't think I could get myself to talk about it. Maybe, I should go, but I really don't wanna meet up with, what's her name, Beth Harper," Phoebe confessed softly. "I don't think anyone in your class does. She's just as bad as Missy," Piper agreed. "Yeah well, she learned from the best, but maybe she's changed you never know," Prue reasoned, successfully hiding a smirk. "The sky will fall if that happens. No way!" Phoebe exclaimed.
"But hey, the only reason she disliked, no trash that, HATED you was because you were so popular with everyone, which is not entirely surprising anyway. She was a bitch who wanted to be on top, but you never gave her a chance coz she just didn't compare to you," Piper said sincerely. Both older Haliwells knew how popular Phoebe had been in high school. "You guys are great for my ego!" Phoebe laughed. "Thank you, we try!" Prue responded. "Well, we're only up for breakfast right now, but how about lunch at P3, no guys?" Piper suggested with a grin. "Seeing as I'm shooting P3 today, if my client gives me a lunch break, I can make it," Prue responded. "Sorry guys, but again, I have to trash the plans coz I have to work," Phoebe broke in apologetically. "Weren't you working all night?" Piper asked, obviously disappointed. Phoebe nodded. "I have to catch some shuteye and work the afternoon, but I have a late dinner date with Kevin, so maybe I'll see you guys at P3 later?" she explained. "Yeah okay," Prue said dejectedly. "But, hey, I do have the day off tomorrow, and I was hoping you guys could help me with some shopping in case I do go to the reunion and also with some stuff for the…you know…the wedding. We do have to pick bridesmaid outfits for you two right?" Phoebe amended quickly, inwardly cursing fate for making her work today. "Sounds like a plan. I have an early morning shoot, that's it," Prue agreed enthusiastically. "Fine by me," Piper conceded. "Great! Now for some beauty sleep!" Phoebe exclaimed, giving each of her sisters a peck on the cheek before going upstairs.
"I am so going to miss having her around!" Piper said, watching Phoebe disappear. "Me too, but that's only if they move out. They might end up staying here," Prue said hopefully. "Oh boy, that is so going to be a disaster! You and Bane, me and Leo, and Phoebe and Kevin!" Piper said, imagining three naked couples wondering around the house. Prue caught the drift and they both burst out laughing.
*****
"Where's Phoebe?" Bane asked Prue, as they sat lounging in the private area reserved for the owners and their companions. Piper glanced at her watch. "From the time, most probably enjoying dinner with Kevin," she informed them. "They sure go out a lot," Leo commented. "I think that's what engaged couples do in the 21st century," Piper teased. "Besides, I'm sure they can both afford it," Bane offered lightly. "And what is that supposed to mean?" Prue demanded, as Piper folded her arms demandingly. "I mean, I'm sure you could too, but doctor's pay is pretty high, and CEO of any company gets quite a fat paycheck too," he explained. "Am I detecting a hint of jealousy?" Prue teased. "Of course not! I don't do jealousy!" Bane defended himself. Prue just shook her head. "Hey guys! Whazzup?" Kevin's cheerful voice rang out. Piper glanced up and smiled at her future brother-in-law and sister. "So what's the discussion tonight?" Kevin asked, wrapping his arm around Phoebe as they took seats. "You two," Leo said mysteriously, grinning at Piper. Kevin looked down at Phoebe. "Should we be worried about anything?" Phoebe shook her head. "Nah!" "Well, for two people about to elope, you seem pretty down to earth," Bane observed, a hint of teasing in his tone. "We would, if we didn't have to work just to be able to take time off later. That's the down side to marrying a Charmed One. They have way too many commitments," Kevin responded. "No kidding!" Leo and Bane chorused in agreement. "Hey! Does that mean you're having regrets?" Phoebe teased. "Hell, no! I wouldn't trade this for anything! Except maybe a different career for you," he replied, and then quickly added, "Shall we dance?" "I have to agree on that one!" Piper commented. "Me too!" Prue agreed. "Ugh! I am going to pay you back for that one!" she warned Kevin, who just took her hand as they headed onto the dance floor, giving the others a thumbs up behind her back. They had just begun moving to the music when a slow ballad came on.
"As I look into your eyes,
I see an angel in disguise,
Sent from God above,
For me to love,
To hold and deny the lies,
And as I hold your body near,
I'll see this month through to a year,
And forever more till life is gone,
I'm keeping your love in me,
Now I've finally found my way,
To lead me down this lonely road,
What I have to do is follow you,
To lighten up my load,
You treat me like a rose,
You gave me room to grow,
You shone the light of love on me,
And gave me air so I can breathe,
You opened doors I closed,
In a world where anything goes,
You gave me strength so I stand tall,
Within this bed of earth,
Just like a rose,
When I feel like hope is gone,
You give me strength to carry on,
Each time I look at you,
There's something new,
To keep our loving strong,
I hear you whisper in my ear,
All the words I long to hear,
How you'll always be,
Here next to me,
To wipe away my tears,
Now I've finally found my way to lead me down this lonely road
What I have to do is follow you
To lighten up my load
You treat me like a rose,
You gave me room to grow,
You shone the light of love on me,
And gave me air so I can breathe,
You opened doors I closed,
In a world where anything goes,
You gave me strength so I stand tall,
Within this bed of earth,
Just like a rose,
And though the seasons change,
Our love remains the same,
You face the thunder when the sunshine turns to rain,
You treat me like a rose,
You gave me room to grow,
You shone the light of love on me,
And gave me air so I can breathe,
You opened doors I closed,
In a world where anything goes,
You gave me strength so I stand tall,
Within this bed of earth,
Just like a rose."
Phoebe smiled ironically to herself. Fate had incredible timing. She lifted her head from Kevin's shoulder and her electric gaze held his face. His eyes reflected the intensity in hers and wordlessly, his head dipped to catch her lips as she raised hers to meet his.
Across the dance floor, Bane gestured towards them. "Now that is something to be envious of." Prue turned her head to follow his gaze, as did Piper and Leo, who were having a playful argument. They were rewarded with the scene of their baby sister lip-locked with her fianc? for what seemed like an eternity. Prue and Piper exchanged amused glances. "Lucky girl," Prue said. "Even luckier guy," Bane responded automatically without giving it much thought. "Hey!"
Several minutes later, after being served a fresh round of drinks, the three couples were once again engaged in banter and discussion, the three sisters together on one couch and their respective male companions on the opposite one. "Excuse me! You're the one who hid from Bloody Mary in?" Phoebe exclaimed, giving Piper a playful shove, and stopped mid sentence as she was pulled into a premonition. A moment later, she jerked back to reality with a gasp. As her senses recovered she was aware of the million-dollar question being thrown at her. "What did you see?" Taking a deep breath to calm her nerves, Phoebe spoke. "We have trouble heading our way. I saw Piper being kidnapped by some guy. They remind me of the Collectors," she explained. "With those pointy things?" Piper asked anxiously. Phoebe just nodded. "Well, let's go check the BoS," Prue said, taking charge as always. "And I'll check with 'Them'," Leo offered.
The group turned serious as they all drove straight to Haliwell manor. Prue, Piper, Kevin and Bane all piled into the living room as Kevin summoned the Book into his arms and then handed it to Piper, who set about flipping its pages. "Guys, why don't you go home," Prue suggested. Bane and Kevin exchanged reluctant glances, but made no argument. Ever since Andy's death, they knew she preferred to have as few people involved in their matters as possible. Bane knew he would only be a distraction as he was powerless, and Kevin realized that even with his powers, he wouldn't be much help and it put their minds at ease. Hence, after extracting promises for them to call, both beaus took their leave.
Piper continued to search through the Book of Shadows, but after almost an hour she slammed the Book shut in frustration. "There's nothing in here. Did you find anything?" she asked Phoebe, who was on her laptop. Phoebe shook her head, before glancing up and taking in her sister's expression. "Sweetie, I know you're upset, but this isn't going to help you," she said softly, giving Piper's shoulder a gentle squeeze. Piper sighed, trying to hide her anxiety. "I know, but?quot; she pulled away. "But? But why its you they're after? What they want from you?" Phoebe urged gently, finishing Piper's unspoken thoughts, and when she received no response she knew she was right. Stepping forward, she wrapped her arms around Piper from behind. "We'll figure this out, Piper. I promise. We always have." She released Piper, then and spoke gently, but firmly. "Honey, you're worn out. You're on edge. Why don't you try to get some sleep? For that matter, why don't you both turn in? I'll see what I can dig up on the web," Phoebe suggested, as Prue came into the room, with a tray and coffee. "Pheebs, you're just as tired as we are, if not more," Piper protested. "No, I'm not. I slept this morning. Go on. Get some sleep and then you can take over," Phoebe insisted. "Pheebs, did they take me while I was asleep?" Piper asked, finally relenting. "Nope. It was at P3, but if it'll make you feel better, I'll bring the Book and the computer up to your room and work from there." "Thanks," Piper said, starting up the stairs. When Phoebe didn't follow her immediately, Prue knew that her sister wanted a private word with her and she waited. "Pheebs, did you find something?" Phoebe sighed, turning to look at her older sister. "Not yet, Prue. But I have a bad feeling these guys will be playing with our heads," she confessed. "Mental torture," Prue acknowledged. "I'm not sure yet, but think about it?quot; "We don't have any secret codes or stuff that could be of any use to the underworld…and if they can't attack as head on?quot; Prue trailed off, knowing the rest would be filled in. "Weaken our minds and then destroy us." "Does this mean that Piper has the weakest mind?" Prue questioned, another thought entering her mind. Phoebe shrugged. "Piper is our connection. Its possible they want to get at one of us. Arrgh! This is so frustrating and it's all a bunch of maybes!" "We'll figure it out, Pheebs. Now go to Piper. I'll join you as soon as I can get some shut eye!" Prue promised. Phoebe nodded as she started up the stairs to her middle sister's room.
******
Phoebe sat on the end of Piper's bed and set about her research again while waiting for Piper to come in from the bathroom. It wasn't long before Piper appeared in her pajamas. "Got anything?" she asked immediately. Phoebe shook her head, not wanting to alarm her sister any more than she already was. "Great! I'm about to be kidnapped and we don't have a clue as to whom or why!" she said, with a tremor in her voice that only Phoebe picked up. Phoebe instantly wrapped her arms around her in a protective hug. "Piper, you are not going to be kidnapped. Not as long as I can help it. I'll find something, I promise," she assured forcefully. "I'm scared Pheebs. I don't know who or even why they want me," Piper whispered softly. Phoebe tightened her embrace. "So am I, Piper. So am I. And that's why we're gonna make sure it doesn't happen. My premonitions can be changed, remember?" Piper nodded slightly. "Good. Now, sleep! I won't leave you alone, I promise," Phoebe instructed. Piper lay down reluctantly and Phoebe took her hand, squeezing it lightly. She stroked her sister's hair until Piper drifted off, before turning back to her research. She gave up on the Internet and turned to the BoS. She spent a while skimming through the pages for a picture or drawing of anything that looked liked what she'd seen in her premonition. She found no such thing, but refused to give up. "Grams, please help us if you can." She waited, hoping against hope that the pages of the Book would magically flip to where they needed it. Nothing. Grunting in frustration Phoebe picked the Book up again and began to read through every single page in search of anything that would help. After several hours of intensive reading, BINGO, she found something. "Man, this thing really needs an index!" She marked the page and began poring over its contents, realization dawning on her. She yawned and stretched, glancing at the clock, which said 2 am, and then at her sleeping sister. All thoughts of sleep left her thoughts as she saw Piper's knitted brows and troubled expression. She was having a dream, or more appropriately, a nightmare.
Piper's Dream?/b>
Piper sees herself falling asleep with Phoebe nearby, stroking her hair. After seeing that Piper is out, Phoebe turns back to her research. However, before long, Phoebe also falls asleep stretched out next to Piper. All of a sudden, two ghastly creatures appear in the room with long pointed fingers. They grab Piper, pulling her off the bed. Piper cries out to her sleeping sister but Phoebe doesn't even stir. "Phoebe! No. No. Please, no. Phoebe!"
Reality?/b>
Phoebe places her hands on Piper's shoulders, gently shaking her. "Piper. Piper, honey, wake up." Piper starts thrashing around in her sleep. "Phoebe! No. No. Please, no. Phoebe!" Phoebe just pulls Piper into her arms and tightens her embrace to resist her thrashing. "Sweetie, wake up. Piper." Piper's thrashing stops as she wakes up. She finds herself looking up into her sister's soft brown eyes. "Phoebe?" she asks in a whisper. "I'm here, sweetie. You're okay, Piper. It was a dream." Piper lets herself go limp in her sister's arms as she dissolves into tears. Phoebe hugs her tightly, rubbing her back comfortingly. "Shhh baby. It was just a dream." Finally, Piper calms down enough to pull away and lie back down. "Are you okay?" Phoebe asks gently. Piper nods, keeping her eyes focussed on their clasped hands. "I am now, I guess…I dreamt…that…that you fell asleep?and…when they came to get me…you wouldn't wake up…I called to you…but you…still wouldn't," Piper said, dissolving into tears again. Phoebe pulls her close. "But it was just a dream, honey," she assured softly. "I haven't slept, they never came, and you're fine, safe in bed as you should be." Just then, Prue came in. "Is everything alright?" she demanded anxiously. "We're fine. Just jumpy. Piper had a bad dream," Phoebe explained. "Did you find anything?" Prue asked. "Actually, I did." She shows them the Book. "The Imparters!" Prue exclaimed. "I know, it sounds like a church group!" Phoebe told her. "Wait a minute! They're gonna kidnap me for the sake of doing it? This is ridiculous!" Piper said, getting agitated. "No, it isn't. If they take you, they want you as bait to lure one of us, it could be Prue, me or even Leo," Phoebe said quietly. "But, why not come after you directly?" Piper questioned. Phoebe shrugged. "Maybe, they can't have a go at us directly, especially you because you have telepathic powers," Prue suggested looking at Phoebe. "I hate this more than anything. We got something they want, take us on directly! But why the hell do they do it this way?" Phoebe said in frustration. "To top it all off, they're not even vanquishable, if there is such a word." "Why?" Piper asked. "Coz they're neither good nor evil." "Great! This is just great!" Phoebe threw up her hands in frustration. "If they're not evil, they can't hurt us," Prue assured. "Yeah! But this is so frustrating!" Piper agreed, glancing at Phoebe, and for the first time noticing her sister's exhaustion. "Pheebs, just how many hours of sleep have you had in the past three days?" she questioned darkly. "Not now, Piper," Phoebe protested, but Prue backed Piper. "You didn't answer the question, Phoebe." "About 8, I guess," Phoebe admitted meekly. "What!" both older Haliwells chorused in unison. "Okay fine! That does it! We know what we're looking for and now YOU are going to get some sleep," Prue said sternly. Phoebe opened her mouth to protest but was cut off by Piper. "Prue's right. We can't do anything now, especially if the Power of Three is not at full strength. You are going to sleep!" Phoebe sighed, laying down beside Piper. "Yes, Mom!" she relented weakly, knowing that there was no way she was going to win. "Good. Now get some sleep," Prue said, starting out of the room. Phoebe watched her close the door behind her and turned to face Piper. "She's never going to get over the mothering." "Yup! And neither am I. You really should be taking care of yourself," Piper scolded. "Don't you start, please. Besides, I kept my massage appointment yesterday and, I'm a doctor so I don't need to pay for that," Phoebe responded. "Well, as a doctor, you should know that a person needs 8 hours of sleep a day and NOT 3 days!" Piper reprimanded. Phoebe sighed. "Okay fine. But sleep isn't the first thing on my mind when it comes to one of you, whether I've been working or not." "Yeah, but its not like we see much of you anyway." Piper regretted the words the moment she saw her sister's expression. Even in the darkness, she could make out the hurt and pain in Phoebe's eyes. "Pheebs, I'm sorry. I didn't mean?quot; "Don't be. You're just pointing out what I've been denying all along," Phoebe broke in quietly. "Pheebs?quot; "No Piper. It’s the truth, and every time I have to back out of plans, I keep telling myself that I'll make it up to you soon, but with everything that comes up at the hospital, it just…I don't even have time to think. I do it to Kevin way too often and you've all been perfectly understanding no matter how much you dislike it. I hardly have any time to myself anymore, coz I'm always on call and one minute I'm enjoying myself and the next minute I'm risking speeding tickets. I have my own office at the hospital, but I'm hardly ever in it unless I'm consulting...I feel like a machine on auto-pilot." "I won't deny that we miss having you around coz we do. I mean, you were the one who made sure we had a girls night at least once a month, now its like you don't even have time to attend one, yet alone make the plans," Piper said slowly, searching Phoebe's expression for any signs of anger, but there were none. "I've been a real bitch, haven't I?" Phoebe said, seemingly disgusted with herself. "No, Pheebs. You've just been real busy…maybe a workaholic," Piper suggested, hiding a grin. "Oh no! I can't be turning into a Bucklands Prue!" Phoebe said, looking horrified. "I can imagine the horrors! Now, sleep on it, you need it." "Sleep? I'll end up with nightmares, Piper," Phoebe protested innocently. "Ah uh, you are going to sleep so we can wake up tomorrow and kick some butt…and maybe save my ass," Piper's voice sunk to a shaky whisper as she said the last phrase. Phoebe snuggled closer and draped an arm around her sister. "You won't need saving coz no one is gonna get you," Phoebe promised softly. Piper just hugged her tighter and arms around each other, the two younger Charmed Ones fell asleep. Unknown to them, they were being watched via a clear pool of water by a pair of green eyes.
***
Phoebe opened her eyes and blinked expecting sunlight to penetrate through the blinds, but was surprised when she was greeted with only darkness. She sat bolt upright and looked around. As she sat up, her head was spinning, like she had been drugged. "What the?" she trailed off as she made out her sisters' unmoving forms in the dim light. Unsteadily, she made her way up to Piper, who was closer and knelt next to her. Phoebe could tell that she was still under the influence of the drugs. Gently slapping Piper's cheeks, Phoebe tried to coax her sister to consciousness. "Piper? Piper, honey, you have to wake up." Giving up, she moved over to Prue and tried the same for her oldest sister.
She was stopped by a deathly calm voice that was very unfamiliar. Standing immediately, she took up a defensive stance in front of her sisters. "What the hell are you and what do you want?" she demanded threateningly at the ghostly pale figure that hardly looked dangerous, but Phoebe wasn't about to let her guard down; none of the sisters would, especially if it concerned each other and Phoebe knew that Prue and Piper, in their sleep induced state, could do nothing to defend themselves. "Relax. I do not wish to cause you nor your sisters any harm," he assured calmly. "Is that why you drugged us and brought us here?" Phoebe asked sarcastically. "Let me explain, before you jump to false conclusions," he insisted. "I'm waiting," Phoebe said, still wary of this stranger. "I am merely a passive observer who notes the happenings in all dimensions, only interfering when I feel the need to do so." "And what have we done that needs your interference?" "Please, let me finish." "I reveal hidden truths and painful secrets, embedded in the minds of those who dwell on Earth. Secrets that loved ones deserve to know and on doing so can effectively help the suffering one cope. That is my reason for existence. I have an 'eye' as you may call it, to look into the minds of others and reveal to rightful people appropriate secrets and truths hidden within." Phoebe just stared at him, taking in his words that had this air of authority and fact. "And what does this have to do with us?" she questioned, quietly, finally unclenching her fists. "You and your sisters are the almighty Charmed Ones, physically you are almost invincible, but emotionally there are many hidden weaknesses that you must overcome, but first of all, you must learn not to keep things from each other. And you have been keeping, not a secret, but a string of painful memories from those you love most and it hurts not just them, but you as well." Phoebe stared, in stunned silence, as his wisely spoken words sunk in, and she knew what he was referring to. "You have had enough time, a number of years, to open up to your sisters, but have chosen to refrain from doing so. Now, the memories that haunted you years ago, have returned in the wake of facing the past, and it is well overdue that they know the truth." With that said, the mysterious stranger vanished in a cloud of pale green dust. Phoebe turned back to continue in her efforts revive her sisters.
Piper swam through the murky waters of semi-consciousness trying to reach the surface as she felt a familiar voice call her name. She struggled even harder to get closer to the voice, detecting the urgency in its tone, but something heavy was keeping her subdued. She heard Phoebe call her again and fought harder, and felt the blanket of darkness lifting. As her eyes opened, a blurry, yet unmistakable image of her baby sister's face came into view. "Phoebe?" she questioned in confusion noticing her surroundings were no longer her bedroom. "Take it easy, Piper," Phoebe urged gently, as she helped Piper into a sitting position and tended to Prue, who also awoke soon. "Phoebe where are we?" "What's going on?" Phoebe shook her head. "I'm really not sure, but those things we saw in the Book of Shadows brought us here. That's for sure," she explained, leaving out the details of her conversation. Turning to Piper, she cracked a small smile. "Bright side? We're in this together at least." Piper shook her head and Prue sighed. "Not really bright." "Yeah well, lets see if there's a door leading out of here somewhere," Phoebe suggested, standing up and feeling her way round the room. "We could really use some light," Piper complained. Barely a moment later, she heard Phoebe cry out, having being startled. "Phoebe!?" she and Prue called out instinctively. "Damn! We need a light…Aha!" Phoebe exclaimed as she pulled on the string that had brushed her face and a light bulb came on. "Ask and you shall receive," she added, smiling slightly as she gazed around looking for an exit. Her eyes rested on a darkened corner, and on going closer, she realized that it was indeed a passageway of some sort. "Great! Now let's get outta here!" Prue said impatiently, struggling to get to her feet. She swayed unsteadily as Phoebe reached out to brace her. "Maybe we should wait a bit," she suggested as Phoebe held out her arm for Piper who took it and dragged herself to her feet. "How come you're okay?" she grumbled, clutching her sister's arm tightly for support. "I was probably drugged before either of you, so I guess I woke up first," Phoebe suggested with a shrug, but her thoughts were on what the mysterious stranger had revealed to her.
Slowly, the trio made their way along the darkened passage. They continued for what seemed like hours but was nothing more than about twenty minutes. They reached a large room sort of thing that was lit by piercing white light that looked like a screen of some sort. Before them, the same mysterious stranger appeared again, though Prue and Piper never of knew of this. "Welcome to my humble dwellings!" he said fairly cordially, as Prue stepped protectively in front of her sisters. "Who are you?" she demanded anxiously. The stranger glanced at Phoebe but refrained from saying anything. Instead, he snapped his fingers and the sisters found themselves against a wall, side by side, Phoebe in the middle. On trying to move, their limbs were paralyzed. "What the hell?" Piper exclaimed angrily. Phoebe just stared at the 'Imparter', concern and fear in her expression. "I was going to do this the easier way, but you ruined my plans. Now, I am compelled to do it differently," he stated calmly. Uncannily enough, his voice did not hold any tone of cockiness that most demons usually had. He held his hand out towards Phoebe, and a bright white light from his eyes traveled through the air and into Phoebe's. "Phoebe!" Prue cried helplessly. Phoebe closed her eyes trying to block the light, but it was no use. She could sense the alien presence in her head, and she could feel it, lightly touching her mind as it probed her memories. She had probed the minds of others before, but only now did she know how it felt to have someone else know the most secret of your thoughts. ""No! Get out of my head!" she growled, as she struggled to force him out. He retreated briefly, only to attack again with a much stronger force. Phoebe opened her eyes helplessly, knowing there was nothing she could do. She glanced up at the screen in front of them, and what she saw made her draw in a sharp breath. Prue and Piper looked somewhat confused as the images, looking like an old movie began playing in front of them.
What they saw truly shocked them. It was in a bathroom that reminded Prue and Piper of the girls' rooms at Baker High. Their view was from the eyes of a girl who was gazing at her own reflection in the mirror. Prue gasped as she realized that the teenager staring back was indeed her baby sister when she was just 18.
The gaze shifted to another teenager with sandy blonde hair and clear blue eyes, who she recognized as Jodie. Jodie? Piper thought. "Blue is definitely your color. It goes with your eyes," Phoebe was telling her friend. "Thanks, Phoebe," Jodie replied. "Yeah, you don't look so bad either in blue," another teen, Carrie commented. Prue smiled to herself, remembering the times when she and her own high school pals used to spend hours doing this. The three girls headed out of the bathroom and into the hallway towards the hall where a lot of other teens were decorating. Gary, one of the guys in Phoebe's class smirked as he walked past them. "Hey President, you could give us a hand," he teased Phoebe. She just rolled her eyes at him as they made their way and picked up a box of bleachers. "So, how's the valediction speech coming along?" Jodie questioned as she mounted a ladder. "Its not. I have no idea what I'm gonna say," Phoebe admitted, handing her friend a streamer. "That's a first. Phoebe Haliwell is speechless," Carrie teased with a grin. "Very funny, but seriously, I dunno what I'm gonna say," Phoebe responded. "Okay, Okay. So, are your sisters gonna make it?" Jodie asked, hanging up the streamer. Phoebe shrugged, picking out another strand of crepe. "I dunno. They're really busy with college and all. That's one thing I dread about graduating." "Yeah! But look on the bright side. No curfew, no rules. We're literally free!" Carrie exclaimed. "Translation: You are really free coz you're the oldest. Not me. Max treats me like a baby. He'll never get over it!" Jodie exclaimed, shaking her head. "You have just Max and really cool parents, but me. I have one extremely strict grandmother and two of the most protective sisters in the world. Prue and Piper would probably never let me take the car unless one of them are there!" Phoebe exclaimed, shaking her head lightly. "I don't blame them. You're quite a handful!" Jodie teased. "Yeah! One big baby!" Carrie chimed in. "You guys!" Phoebe protested with a laugh. The bell rang for recess. "Oh great! We're not halfway done yet!" Phoebe exclaimed. "Relax! We'll finish everything in time!" Carrie assured, "I still can't believe after next week, we're outta here!" "I can't wait for the prom!" Phoebe added. "Yeah, so you can be prom queen!" Jodie joked. "Yeah right!" Phoebe said sarcastically. "No! Come on! You're the most popular girl in the school! Every guy in the school would kill to go out with you," Carrie said, only half-joking. "Yeah, and Prue and Grams would like to kill half of them," Phoebe said, grinning at the image of her oldest sister and Grams scrutinizing every one of her dates. Jodie and Carrie laughed at their friend's remark, as they moved the ladder behind the stage to continue the streamers. Jodie mounted the ladder again.
All of a sudden, the door burst open and four boys, all clad in black came in carrying guns. Without warning, they opened fire, greatly thrilled by the screams of terror and pain that ripped the air.
Prue and Piper stared in horror at the screen as they saw, out of the corner of their eyes, Phoebe, beside them was struggling frantically. How hard could it be to relive your worst nightmare because someone violated your rights to privacy?
Phoebe looked up at Jodie on the ladder and gasped in horror as her friend fell straight on top of her. She was caught off guard, as was Carrie when Jodie collapsed on top of them, knocking them both off their feet. Phoebe was numb with shock and horror, she couldn't even move. The boys made a quick sweep of the room, and laughing as if they had just made an incredibly hilarious joke, left it, even closing the door behind them. Moments later, they heard more gunshots and more screams, and then silence.
Phoebe cautiously slid out from underneath her wounded friend. "Jodie! Oh my God! No!" she whispered desperately, squeezing her friend's hand. "Phoebe, Carrie," Jodie whispered hoarsely, her strength waning. Phoebe and Carrie sat up besides her, holding her hand with tears running down their faces. "Tell Max…my parents…everyone…I love them…I love you guys," Jodie said, as the strength drained from her body leaving her eyes open. Phoebe reached out tenderly, closing her best friend's eyes for eternity.
After several minutes of painful silence, Phoebe glanced around the room and was horrified to see how many other bodies lay sprawled on the ground. She looked back at Carrie, whose expression reflected her own. "Let's get out of here," Carrie said, her voice choked. Phoebe managed a nod as she took her friend's hand and stood up, looking at the large stain of blood on her shirt, Jodie's blood.
Carrie threw up when they entered the cafeteria. Phoebe wanted to do the same, but only gagged. Spread out all over the room, were bloody bodies and all kinds of food. Trays filled with food remained on tables as they had been hastily abandoned. Milkshakes and Pepsis were all over the floor. Only minutes before it was buzzing with activity and excitement of recess time. The sight made Phoebe's stomach churn and lurch, and she knew it was one she would never forget. There were a few soft moans amidst the fallen students, but there was nothing Phoebe or Carrie could do to help them.
Phoebe started slowly across the room as Carrie started across from the other end, when she was grabbed from behind and a hand covered her mouth preventing her from crying out. She spun round only to be met with the face of Gary. He let her go immediately. "You're not one of them, are you?" Phoebe questioned warily. He shook his head. "No. They're all Juniors in black," he explained softly. Phoebe sighed in relief. "Where's Carrie and Jodie?" he asked. He regretted the words as tears filled his friend's soft brown eyes. Phoebe turned away and caught Carrie's attention as she led a young freshman girl back with her. "Jodie's dead," Phoebe told Gary softly, watching his green eyes fill with pain and sympathy. "Oh God! Those bastards are gonna pay!" he vowed. Carrie came up to them with a freshman Phoebe knew. "Stacy, are you okay?" The girl nodded fearfully. 'You're not?quot; Phoebe shook her head. "No. We wanna get out of here just like you do," Carrie assured. "Look! Let's go into the Councilor's office, not that it's much safer, but its better," Gary suggested, glancing around. In silent agreement, the group went into the Councilor's office and locked the door. "What are we going to do?" Stacy asked, looking up at the Seniors. Gary and Carrie both looked at Phoebe, who shifted uncomfortably. She knew other students looked up to her, but it didn't mean she had to like it, especially in a situation like this. "I think the old hideaway basement entry should lead you guys out of here. The trapdoor's in the boiler room and I don't think any of them are there." Phoebe spoke calmly and thoughtfully, but inwardly she was on the verge of crumbling completely. "What about you?" Carrie asked suddenly. "We can't leave everyone else who's here alive. I have to help them, but I won't risk you," Phoebe explained. "What!" was the shocked response she received. After a moment of silence, Gary spoke. "Phoebe, there is no way I'm going to leave you here alone to fight off them. If you stay, I stay." "That goes double for me," Carrie added firmly. "I'm staying too," Stacy added. Phoebe opened her mouth to protest, but Carrie cut her off. "I lost one friend. I'm not going to walk away and risk losing another. We're in this together, and that's final." "Thanks guys. You don't know how much that means to me," Phoebe whispered, tears glistening in her eyes for a brief moment.
Prue and Piper, watching even from the screen of memories couldn't help but admire their baby sister's strength and courage. Phoebe however, had closed her eyes tightly, trying to block the images, but even though her eyes couldn't see it, her mind was playing it over and over again in her head.
"Where do you think they might be keeping the others?" Stacy asked, finding her voice amidst the seniors. "In a large open space that they could keep an eye on," Carrie suggested thoughtfully. "That could be the gym, the library and the labs," Phoebe pointed out. "Only one way to find out for sure," Gary said grimly, as he reached over the desk and dialed the intercom to the areas Phoebe had suggested and muting it. "I hope no one notices," Phoebe said quietly. As he accessed the gym, they could hear voices in the background. "Okay, Lenin and Adams, sweep the cafeteria. Jeffrey and Hall, watch the hallway outside here, and you and me hit the labs on the second floor. "David Butcham," Stacy whispered. Looking at the questioning glances sent her way she explained. "He's the one giving out orders." "What do we do now?" she added. "Now, we talk to the police," Phoebe said, dialing 911. "This is Phoebe Haliwell, a student from inside Baker High," she explained calmly, when someone on the other end responded. "We're going to try and take them down and free the other students." Carrie pressed the Speaker button so that they could all hear what was being said. "Young lady, don't do anything dangerous," the voice said sharply. "What did we do to deserve this kind of danger," Gary retorted sharply. Phoebe placed her hand on his arm, silently urging him to calm down. "Who is with you?" the officer asked again. "I would like to speak with Inspector Trudeau," Phoebe requested. Carrie shot her a look. "He'll understand better." When Andy's dad came on the line, Phoebe explained their situation and their plans. "Phoebe, please be careful. Your sisters and grandmother are all out here. Gary, Carrie and Stacy, your parents out here too. And I have to tell them what you're doing," he warned them. "Other than that, good luck and god be with you." Phoebe hung up and turned to her companions. They all met her gaze solemnly, waiting for a plan. "We have to disarm them somehow and get some weapons of our own," Phoebe told them. "I saw some baseball bats in the cafeteria," Carrie spoke up. Gary looked at them grimly. "Yeah, but what good are those against guns." "They'll have to do till we can take them down and get their guns," Phoebe said quietly. "What? Are you crazy?" Carrie burst out. "We don't know how to handle guns," Gary pointed out. "Do we have a choice?" Stacy asked softly. Phoebe looked at the freshman, who was almost five years younger than her and sighed deeply. "Guys, I've never touched a gun before either, but something tells me we're gonna have to learn how to use one, and we're gonna have to learn real quick if we're gonna get outta here alive. Unless you guys take the boiler room exit, but I'm staying," Phoebe told them firmly. "I guess that's settled then," Gary agreed. "Okay. So what do we do?" Carrie questioned her best friend. "From what we heard, two of them should be down here any minute now. Chances are they'll come down together so we have to separate them. Two of us lure one of them into the hall while the other two take the other one out with a bat in the cafeteria. Knock them out, grab the gun and be as quiet as possible. We don't want to alert anyone," Phoebe explained, her expression dead serious. They all nodded. "Carrie and I will take the one in the cafeteria, Gary and Stacy nab the other. Is everyone okay with that?" Phoebe asked. "Yeah. Let's go."
Prue drew in a sharp breath. Wow! In those brief minutes, she'd seen her baby sister metamorph into her. Firm, determined and in-charge and extremely concerned for the safety of her companions.
Piper gasped. She could hardly imagine her baby sister, the gentle, happy and carefree sister taking so much control and responsibility onto her shoulders.
Phoebe waited tensely as she heard two pairs of footsteps descending the stairs. Her breath caught in her throat as she picked up on their conversation. "I hope we got those 'three musketeer' bitches. Those snobs deserve to die," said Brian Lenin. "Yeah! They're too damn popular for their own good! I'm sure I got them. They're not in the gym so they gotta be dead down he?quot; Collin Adams trailed off as a bump sounded from the hall. "What's that?" "Probably some squirt who needs his misery put to an end," Brian said with a snort as he went in. Phoebe sighed in relief as Collin continued towards the corner where she was lying in wait. As he rounded it, Phoebe kicked the gun from his hand and kneed him in the crotch. Before he could recover, Carrie had brought the baseball bat down over his head. Phoebe sighed in relief and gave her friend a shaky smile as she retrieved the weapon. Another thump sounded and they saw Stacy come out with another gun, looking relieved. Gary came up a moment later dragging his captive. "Let's drag them into the kitchen pantry before they come around and give us trouble," he suggested. Phoebe nodded and together the three girls managed to hoist Collin into the small room as well. "Two down, four more to go," Stacy said with a small smile. "We're not out of the woods yet," Phoebe warned. "The next two will be harder to take coz they'll be in a straight corridor. The labs." Gary glanced at Phoebe. "We don't have a choice. We'll have to use these," he said solemnly. Phoebe closed her eyes. "You're right. They won't hesitate to use it on us. We'll have to."
Piper couldn't believe it. Phoebe was acting so much like Prue. The way she spoke, her reasoning, her seriousness. She had known that they had a lot in common, but right now, if it weren't for their current situation, Piper could swear that Prue's spirit was possessing Phoebe's body.
Prue's eyes nearly popped out of her head. Whoa! Head rush! Its no wonder we clash so often! She didn't know she had so much in common with her baby. The baby she was supposed to protect and look out for. Her baby had gone through all this. She shot the real Phoebe, beside her a glance, only to see that Phoebe had her eyes tightly shut, blocking out the whole world.
Phoebe felt her heart pounding in her chest as she and Gary, each bearing a gun, reached the landing for the second floor stairs. "There's no one but Jeffrey and Hall out there," Gary told her in a low tone. Phoebe glanced over his shoulder, and seeing that the gunmen were looking in the other direction, she crossed to the other side, but before she could heave a sigh of relief, she heard one of them call out. "Hey! There's someone there." "Come out or we'll shoot!" Phoebe looked across at Gary. He nodded slightly and braced his gun, keeping his eyes on her. "One, two?quot; They both turned abruptly, opening fire on their enemies. As her fingers pressed the trigger, Phoebe closed her eyes, fighting down every human instinct to stop and run. There was silence, before she and Gary dared to glance down the hallway. Seeing their targets down, their weapons beside them, Gary leapt forward, picking up both guns and hurried back to her. He gave her a grim smile and together, they hurried back down to where Carrie and Stacy would be waiting anxiously.
Piper gasped in horrified shock. Phoebe, her little sister, the most caring, compassionate person she'd ever known, the person with the biggest heart. She couldn't believe that she had just witnessed that same person taking up a gun and using it to kill.
"Thank God," Carrie breathed, as she saw her best friend and Gary hurrying towards them carrying two guns each. "Four down, two to go," Stacy said. Seeing the looks sent her way she threw up her hands. "What? I'm sure we all want outta here as soon as possible." "So, now what?" Carrie asked. Gary gave out the guns. "Now, we head for the gym," he said. "We really have to be careful. No telling how many students are up there," Phoebe said seriously. "Let's hope none of the hostages are out in the hallway," Stacy spoke up. Phoebe turned to eye the freshman. She'd seen so much in the past hour or so, and was still holding her head up. She gave her a hug. "Lets do it, guys. For us and for our friends up there…and for the friends who will never make it," She said solemnly, as they closed in for a group hug.
Prue knew this was just a memory and that it was not real anymore, but she couldn't stop the thumping of her heart as the seriousness of the situation sunk in. Those kids, including her sister, were all teenagers, but they were acting like soldiers at war. Soldiers forced to take up guns and use them to kill, just for the sake of survival.
Piper wanted to scream for whoever this stranger was to stop doing this to them. She wanted to believe that this was all a lie, but looking at the pained expression on the face of Phoebe, who was beside her, she knew it was a horrific truth, one Phoebe had so painfully chosen to hide from them. As much as she wanted the screen to go blank, a part of her wanted to know what happened, what had caused such drastic and dramatic changes in her baby sister.
The quartet made their way up the stairs to the third floor which lead directly into the gym. At the narrow corridor they all paused to mentally and physically prepare themselves for the task ahead, a task that would almost undoubtedly leave at least one of them either wounded, or dead. Phoebe's thoughts were of her sisters and Grams. They were just outside the walls of this building and yet, she hadn't seen Prue or Piper in ages. Would she ever see them again? Would these three people be the last living souls she ever set eyes on? What about all these other kids, dead and dying, would they ever see another day? What about these Juniors, who had their parents waiting outside, hoping they were alright, but instead, they were behind this inhumane massacre!
Phoebe approached the corner, and cautiously glanced round, her friends right behind her. Sure enough, two of the armed young men, clad in black were there, looking extremely agitated. "Where are they? They should've been back by now," one of them was saying. "I heard shots. Lets hope they're?quot; he never finished his sentence as he saw a flash of movement near the corner. "Who's there?" David demanded anxiously, clutching his weapon. Phoebe shot Gary a glance and once again, as they had done before, the two opened fire in the direction. Phoebe gritted her teeth as she pulled the trigger vowing to never tell a soul about this hell house, if she ever made it out alive. They heard two cries and then silence, though there was the shuffling of feet from inside the gym. The quartet rounded the corner and went right up to the door of the gym without taking the weapons from their gunned down targets. That was a dreadful mistake. Phoebe heard a noise behind her and spun round to see David taking aim at Stacy who was standing beside her. "Stacy, look out!" Phoebe yelled as she shoved the freshman away from the path of the bullet. Carrie and Gary spun round simultaneously at Phoebe's cry. Seeing Phoebe go down, they both raised their guns firing furiously at David. His body jerked several times, before lying still. "Phoebe!" Carrie cried fearfully, rushing up to her best friend's side, wondering if she had lost her too. Phoebe rolled over slowly, raising her left hand, which was covered in blood. "I'm okay," she managed through her tears. "Oh God!" Stacy whispered. Gary first retrieved the weapons from the two bodies and then came up to them. Seeing Phoebe's bleeding hand, he shrugged off his jacket and proceeded to wrap it tightly round her wrist. "That should reduce the bleeding!" he told her tenderly. "And ruin your jacket," Phoebe returned weakly. As they spoke, the gym opened and two classmates peeked out cautiously. "Paul, Frank! Its okay!" Carrie called them over. Expressions of pure relief crossed their faces as they opened the door widely and hurried out to where Phoebe was. "Are you okay? That's an awful lot of blood," Paul said with concern. "I'll live," Phoebe winced as the words left her mouth. Carrie laid a hand on her shoulder. "We all will now." Gary helped Phoebe to her feet. "Let's contact the police and tell them," she suggested, starting for the gym. "Phoebe, the phone line's been cut," Frank informed her, picking up on what she was about to do. Phoebe held her hand against her stomach, grimacing in pain. She turned to Stacy. "Will you run down through the side exit and tell them?" she asked. Stacy nodded. "Why don't I go?" Paul, Frank and Gary asked at the same time. "We're all Seniors and you're guys. They're more likely to believe it from a freshman," she explained with a wry smile. Stacy nodded and ran off and Phoebe turned to Paul and Frank. "Get the others out of here." They nodded and went inside.
Piper almost cried out as she saw her sister fall, inevitably hit by a bullet. Gosh, what did any kid do to deserve this? What did Phoebe do to deserve to have all this weight on her shoulders? Why did all those students deserve to die?
As all the hostages began filing out, Phoebe leaned against the corridor wall and closed her eyes, sinking down to the floor, tears falling from her face. Gary and Carrie followed suit. Carrie put her arm around Phoebe and Gary put his arms around them both. The past couple of hours had drawn them closer together than the past ten years. They had been in kindergarten together, but were merely acquaintances then, and good friends as the years went by, but now they were bound by an unbreakable bond, a bond that was created during a battle for life and death. They stayed that way until Andy's father and several other officers found them that way.
"It wasn't supposed to be like this, you know?" Carrie spoke quietly. "We were supposed to be having fun, hanging up streamers, taking make-up tests and waiting for dates. We were supposed to graduate happily. All of us!" Gary burst out. "Nothing turns out the way we planned. Everything happens for a reason. That's what Grams always tells me, but what did any of us do to deserve this hell? What did Jodie do to not deserve to graduate and live a life? We weren't perfect kids, but we weren't criminals either," Phoebe said quietly, her tone trembling. Gary and Carrie turned to look at her. In all the years they had known her, Phoebe was one who rarely cried in front of others, but Carrie knew the emotional burden her best friend carried. "Phoebe?quot; she tried gently. "No, Carrie. It's true! Maybe it's all my fault. Everyone I care about dies painfully. My mum, my dad's gone, but he's still dead to me, and now Jodie. Who's gonna be next?" Phoebe cried in anguish and then fell silent. No one said a word. "No one is ever going to understand what we went through, but we do and we're gonna stick together like glue, right?" Carrie whispered softly. "Right." Phoebe pulled her into a hug. Inspector Trudeau interrupted the moment. "Your sisters and grandmother are waiting," he said quietly. Phoebe turned in the direction he indicated and forced a smile for their benefit.
All of a sudden, the sisters felt the world round them spin and they felt like they were about to black out. When the world calmed, they dared to open their eyes only to find themselves back on the attic couch of the manor. "What the?" Prue trailed off.
Phoebe sighed in defeat, putting her face in her hands, not wanting to meet her sisters' eyes.
Piper remained silent, her eyes trailing towards her baby sister. When Phoebe didn't look back at her, Piper knew she was confused and unsure. Reaching out, she tentatively placed her hand deliberately between Phoebe's shoulder blades. Phoebe raised her head, but her expression was unreadable. "Who the hell is responsible for this?" she demanded in a low voice. "That would be me, my darlings," Grams said, as she materialized beside the podium. "Why? Why show them all those horrible images?" was all Phoebe could ask. "Because you wouldn't tell them. You haven't and its already been ten years," Grams replied calmly. Phoebe's face flushed with anger. "I had my reasons Grams, and if you didn't like them you use magic to get what you want. Is that it?" she demanded, her voice rising an octave. "Why didn't you tell us, Pheebs?" Prue asked softly, studying her baby sister's face. Phoebe turned to face them, her expression pained. "It hurt so much, just to think about it, how could I talk about it? I wanted to spare you the pain of knowing," she said softly, her eyes flashing angrily as she turned back to Grams. "Pheebs," Piper intervened skillfully, "You've always known when something upsets either one of us. Even since we were little and you'd always try to make us feel better coz seeing us in pain hurt you. It's no different for us. Pheebs, when you hurt, we hurt. It doesn't matter if we know why." Phoebe sighed, running a hand through her hair and turned to Grams. "How did you pull it off?" Grams chuckled. "As curious as ever. Usually, you can't tell an Imparter what to do, but this particular one owes me a favor and since I so desperately wanted to know what happened that brought such drastic and dramatic changes in you, I thought this was the perfect opportunity. I know I sound insensitive, but that's not it. Phoebe, dear, you have to face your past sooner or later, and not just because of the reunion but for events in the near future that you will face, some professional, others personal." Phoebe held her hands up. "Grams, my life is bad enough already. Please don't make it sound like I'm doomed," she joked weakly. Grams only shook her head. "Sorry dear, but it’s the truth. You've chosen one of the most demanding careers there is, and added with being a Charmed One, you really don't have much time. And now, I must go, for your duties call you once again. Take care, my darlings. I love you," she said as she began to fade away. "What duties?" Phoebe said in a puzzled tone. Just then, her cell phone rang. "Those duties," Piper said with a resigned sigh. Phoebe picked up. "Phoebe." "Yeah okay?quot; "Phoebe!" Kevin and Leo's combined tones reached their ears and all three sisters hurried out of the attic. As they reached the landing, they saw Darryl and another officer standing in the foyer. "Oh…Laura! Scratch that! Cancel my tickets and just put me on one this evening. Yeah, I was up to my neck, now I'm in way over my head!" Phoebe said into the phone and hung up. "What is going on? I've been paging you for over an hour," Darryl asked. "Huh? What…I left it upstairs," Phoebe mumbled. "What is it?" she questioned. "We found the baby. Some crazy woman's got her. You might want to be there since it might be sick," he explained briefly. Phoebe raised her hand to her forehead as she hurried down the stairs. "Uh…Oh…Right. I want an ambulance at the scene. Have them radio the hospital requesting a STR team. In the mean time, let's go," she said, grabbing her jacket and heading for the door. Darryl and the officer followed her, leaving an utterly confused and surprised group of people behind. "Okay! What is going on?" Kevin asked, shaking his head. "Long story," Piper said. Prue shrugged. "Another day at Haliwell manor." With that said, the two sisters trudged into the kitchen leaving Kevin and Leo to exchange baffled glances. Poor fellows!
*****
Prue and Piper had just come home for lunch when Phoebe trudged in, looking exhausted. "Hungry?" Piper questioned. Phoebe shook her head and grabbed a glass of fruit juice, gulping it down and flopping down on a chair. They sat in silence, Prue and Piper not daring to bring up the conversation of the earlier morning. "Grams was right when she said having to face the past," Phoebe stated quietly. "Why? What happened?" Prue asked immediately. Phoebe sighed. "You know the baby Darryl mentioned," she began as her sisters nodded. "Yeah well, her mother was found late last night in a parking lot all cut up. Meaning, she had literally been opened up and the baby taken out, but the umbilical cord and placenta were both there." Piper shuddered. "Who would be crazy enough to do something like that?" "A woman who miscarried and never got over it," Phoebe continued. "When they found the baby, the woman was armed and she shot at the SWAT team which was forced to take her down. I never thought I'd have to worry about that before unless I was a cop. Guess I was wrong," she finished, staring down at her glass. Prue placed her hand over Phoebe's. "Yeah, you were, but you faced it. That's what counts, just like you did last time." "Pheebs, I really don't know what to say. I've always wished you'd tell us what happened, and now that we know, I don't know how to respond," Piper admitted. Phoebe cracked a wry smile. "When I decided that I had to do something, the first thing that came to mind was that if I ever made it out of there alive, you two would chew me out for not getting out when I should have." "I'm glad we found out, even if it wasn't exactly the way I would like to," Prue said. "I only wish I'd just told you straight out." "Mmm hmm. And miss out all the details," Piper said, scowling at her sister. "That would have been a good thing. Why do you think I couldn't eat for a week!" Phoebe responded. Prue and Piper grimaced at the sight of the cafeteria. "While we're on the subject, what are you gonna do about Friday?" Piper questioned cautiously. Phoebe sighed. "I really don't know. Maybe I should just exchange shifts with my partner or go out of town," she said, only half-joking. "But seriously, I'm considering the possibility of attending," she continued. "That's the Phoebe I know! Never misses a party, no matter how boring it may be!" Prue teased. "Unfortunately. That's why I have to attend a conference tomorrow," Phoebe complained. "Is that what the flight reservations were about? Where are you going?" Piper asked curiously. "Barbados." "Ooh! Beaches and sun, but no Kevin!" Prue teased. "Don't hit on any guys while you're there," Piper added with a grin. Phoebe shook her head. ""Come on, guys! The only guy I'll be spending time with is Bob and he's way too old for me. Besides, its only one night, I'll be back Thursday morning." "Are you working Thursday?" Piper asked. "Not if I can help it. Why?" Phoebe responded. "Just asking coz I'm free all day," Piper informed her. "I need a new wardrobe, so I'm hoping to get it. Care to join me?" "If I'm free, definitely," Phoebe agreed. "When has Phoebe ever turned down a shopping trip," Prue teased playfully.
¡¡
****
"Why am I so nervous? Chill, its just our club," Phoebe said, trying to soothe herself, as Piper pulled her Cherokee into P3's parking lot. "Relax, Pheebs. You'll be fine," Prue assured. "Here come our beaus," Piper said, glancing at herself in the rearview mirror as Kevin, Bane and Leo, all in tuxedos approached the vehicle. Leo opened the driver's door for Piper, Bane the passenger door for Prue and Kevin the back door for Phoebe. "Let's get this damn thing over with," Phoebe told herself softly. "Relax. You'll be fine," Kevin assured. Phoebe rolled her eyes as Prue gave her, an 'I told you so' look. "When do you rehearse your lines?" "Huh?" Kevin said in confusion. "Never mind. She's just tense," Piper told him, causing Phoebe to roll her eyes again.
They entered the club to find that it had been decorated just like it had for Piper's class. As the three couples wondered into the building, a lot of heads turned their way. A lot of them came over to greet Phoebe, her popularity in high school becoming glaringly obvious. Phoebe gave some of them hugs and shook hands with their dates. Prue and Piper proceeded to the bar, leaving Phoebe to make the introductions. Several minutes later however, she and Kevin ventured over. "I'm a good doctor. I'm engaged to a software engineer who runs his own company. I'm one of the most powerful witches in the world. What have I got to be worried about?" Phoebe asked herself. "This is lousy. If only Carrie or Gary would turn up," she said aloud. "Ask and you shall receive," Piper said, gesturing towards the entrance. "All right! Now this is more like it," Phoebe said, looking much more enthusiastic. She started towards Carrie and her date, dragging Kevin along behind her. Prue and Piper watched as the two old friends embraced and a million memories triggered off in their minds. Phoebe introduced Kevin as her fianc?and Carrie introduced her husband. Kevin found himself left alone with Brad. "Okay! Talk about ditch the dodo, huh?" Brad quipped lightly. "Yeah. But after so long, its understandable." "True," Brad agreed. "From what Carrie tells me, they were best friends." "Do you know about the shooting?" Kevin questioned curiously. Brad nodded gravely. "She never talks about it, though. Has Phoebe?" Kevin shook his head. "I don't know why the most wonderful people suffer so much."
As the evening progressed, Gary also showed up with his fiancée. Although no one really talked about the shootings, it was obvious that the event hung heavily in the air. Little did they know that history was about to repeat itself as Grams had said.
Gary and Phoebe were sharing a dance. Phoebe stared up into the warmth and familiarity of his clear green eyes. He gazed back as her as they both took and identical journey down memory lane. Their thoughts were brought to an abrupt halt when the lights went out. "What's going on?" "Nobody move!" a gruff voice warned. Phoebe froze in Gary's arms and she heard him draw in a sharp breath as the lights came back on. The scene of men clad in black with assault rifles was all too familiar and too much of an uncanny coincidence. "Oh God!" she heard someone murmur in fear. Phoebe looked around for her sisters and her heart skipped a beat when she saw one of them had a gun to Piper's head. Prue was standing not far away, wrapped up in Bane's arms. Their eyes met and Phoebe sent a silent warning to her older sister. Prue just looked back, knowing the huge risk of using their powers. Phoebe focussed her gaze on Piper and when her eyes met her middle sister's she could clearly see the fear in them. Phoebe tried to reassure her silently, but she knew better than anyone the dread of the situation.
One of the men grabbed Carrie roughly away from Brad, who out of instinct leaped forward. That was a mistake he would never forget, if he lived. The gunman fired and Carrie screamed as every bullet hit her husband. Phoebe felt the world reel in slow motion. Carrie collapsed to the floor beside Brad, sobbing uncontrollably. Gary tensed and Phoebe's eyes blazed. Suddenly without hesitation, he lashed out at the nearest gunmen, sending his weapon skittering across the floor. Reacting instantly, Phoebe leapt for the gun and picked it up, holding it at arm's length with both hands towards the bastard who had Piper. Phoebe saw that his attention was not on his captive, but on Gary who was on top of his pal. With amazing aim, Phoebe fired. Prue and Piper were watching their baby sister with the deadly weapon, they saw her take aim and fire and the next thing they saw was the gun in the hand of Piper's captor, go sailing through the air. The gunmen immediately released his hold on Piper, and grabbed his wounded wrist. Piper kneed him in the groin as Bane gave him a killer punch on the jaw, knocking him out cold. Gary dived for the gun, and grabbing it in mid air, stood. From the corner of his eyes, he saw another gunmen, discreetly hidden behind the speaker. Meanwhile, Phoebe had caught movement from the other end of the club, and simultaneously with Gary, she shot again. She saw them both go down. Only Carrie's sobbing broke the heavy silence. No one moved, and seeing no other activity, Phoebe lowered her smoking gun shakily, breathing in raspy gasps. This had hit far too close to home. Her eyes met Gary's and they reflected her own. Ten years ago, she was doing the exact same thing, with the exact same person. Was this fate? If it was, it well and truly sucked. Snapping out of her reverie, Phoebe was torn between checking on her sister and her best friend. Coming to her senses, she approached Brad's motionless body, around which a pool of blood was steadily growing larger. Prue came up to Carrie and gently pulled her away as Phoebe, with one hand speed dialed her cell phone, and with the other searched for a pulse. Finding a weak one, she sighed slightly in relief. "This is Dr. Phoebe Haliwell. I'm calling from P3. There's been a shooting. One man down with multiple gunshot wounds, going into cardiac arrest. Pulse falling rapidly," she said, all in one breath. She listened briefly for a moment and then said. "Get them in here now. Its clear." Barely moments later, the entrance burst open and two paramedics wheeling a stretcher hurried in. "Over here!" Phoebe called out. The two medics flashed her a grim smile of recognition. "He's not breathing. Put a line in," Phoebe commanded, as they obliged. "Brad, breath! Come on, breathe!" she urged under her breath. "Defibrillator! I want 30 watt seconds of energy, and I want an amp of epinephrine and lidocaine!" Phoebe ordered as one of the medics strapped an electrical device onto each of his hands. The other ripped open Brad's shirt and he placed his hands on his bare chest. They shock him once, Brad's body jerked, but Phoebe shook her head. "Again!" They shocked him again. "Okay, we got a beat. Let's get him outta here. I'm with you," Phoebe said as she followed the stretcher out. Prue, Carrie, Piper and Gary hurried out of the building after the stretcher, but their final glimpse before the ambulance doors closed was Phoebe barking orders into the radio as she bent over Brad's body.
*****
Gary paced furiously up and down the hospital ER waiting lounge. They had been here over an hour and all the nurse would tell them was that Brad was still in surgery. Carrie was still crying, the horrible images haunting her. "Why are they taking so long?" Gary demanded. Kevin placed a hand on his shoulder. "They're still working on him. I'm sure Phoebe would tell us as soon as she finds out." Gary glanced over at Carrie, who Prue and Piper were trying to comfort. "I don't believe this happened," he muttered. "What? The fact that our class suffered a shooting before graduation and now another at our reunion," Carrie burst out, before dissolving into tears again. Just then, the waiting room doors swung open as Phoebe came out, not in her evening attire, but in surgical scrubs and a lab coat thrown over. She started towards them as Gary stopped pacing and Carrie stopped crying. A nurse intercepted her and she paused briefly to sign a clipboard. "Is he?" Carrie trailed off as Phoebe shook her head firmly. "No." Phoebe paused as she crouched down to take her friend's hand. "I won't lie to you. There were five slugs in him. We managed to get them all out. He's stable for now, but he flat-lined once on the way, and twice on the table." "What?" Gary asked fearfully. "He's listed in critical. The next 48 hours are crucial. Apart from that, there are risks of infection." Carrie nodded, filing away most of the information. "Can I see him?" Phoebe nodded. "Not for very long." She turned to the others. "I'm sorry, just Carrie." They nodded, and Phoebe led Carrie down the hall to one of the ICU rooms. A sob escaped Carrie's throat as she saw his motionless body, all bandaged up with a dozen machines hooked up to him, monitoring all his vitals. Phoebe pulled her in for a hug. "I'm so sorry," she whispered. Carrie could only nod, as she sat down and took his hand. "I'll leave you alone. If you need anything, have them page me," Phoebe said quietly, before leaving the room. In the hallway, Phoebe leaned against the wall to collect herself. This was too close for comfort and she needed to clear her head and calm down. She couldn't face her sisters or Kevin just yet, and she hoped they had gone home. Taking a deep breath, she went into her office. Making sure to close the door behind her, she rounded her desk and sat down, glaring at the stack of medical reports piled neatly on the side. Lifting the top one, she opened it, but barely a minute later, she slammed it shut in frustration, not being able to concentrate. She dropped her head into her hands on the table and closed her eyes. There was a knock at her door, and Phoebe glanced up as it opened and her sisters and Gary came in. "I thought you guys had gone home," she said quietly. "You mean, you hoped that we had gone home," Prue responded. "Can you blame me? Today has been a disaster," Phoebe said, rubbing her temples. "Just like our graduation," Gary said as Phoebe winced. "No need to remind me." "It was great to see you even though I would've preferred it under different circumstances," Gary spoke up with a slight smile. "Me too. So, when are you flying back to Denver?" Phoebe questioned. "Tomorrow…or rather tonight. Any chance we can meet up before then," Gary suggested, glancing at his watch. Before Phoebe could answer, the receptionist knocked and entered, carrying a stack of medical reports. Phoebe's brows rose sharply. " Just so you know, you won't have time to breathe. You're booked from 8 till 6," Laura informed her. "I thought Dana was covering for me while I was out," Phoebe said. "She was, but most of your patients rescheduled for today." "I don't think so," Phoebe said, looking towards Gary. "I have appointments non-stop today since I was out of town the day before." "Is there anything else you need?" Laura asked. "Coffee. Lots of it," Phoebe replied. "Dr. Haliwell to Cardiology. Dr. Haliwell to Cardiology," a voice boomed from the PA system, simultaneously as Phoebe's pager beeped. "Uh, Laura, make that coffee extra strong," Phoebe said standing up hurriedly. "Sorry guys, gotta go." With that, she was out the door, the beginning of another day in the lives of the Charmed Ones, but maybe this was taken too far to the extremes.