Uncharmed

[noazmale]

SEVENTEEN

“You don’t believe us,” said Piper to Patty.

“It’s not that,” said Patty. “It’s just hard to accept. I mean, how would you react if the roles were reversed? If my sisters and I suddenly appeared and claimed that we were really the Charmed Ones and that everything had suddenly been changed?”

“I see your point,” said Piper. “I guess it is kind of hard to accept.”

“You know,” said Patty, “there is one option you may not have considered.”

“What would that be?” asked Paige.

“That things are exactly as they are supposed to be,” returned Patty. “That it’s not us or the world that’s changed, but your memories. Maybe someone is trying to convince you that you’re the Charmed Ones to get to us.”

“I suppose that’s possible,” said Piper. “But I don’t believe that. Our memories are too distinct, too real. Besides, how would implanting false memories in us help someone to get to you?”

“I don’t know,” said Patty. “I’ll admit, it’s a stretch. But it seems more reasonable than your theory about someone changing reality. Let’s wait to see what Leo and Matilda find out. They might come up with a more plausible explanation.”

“Okay,” said Piper. “Well, looks like you’ll be staying on the sofa tonight. It seems to be getting a lot of use lately.”

“I’ve slept in worse places,” said Patty, smiling. “I once fell asleep in Pam’s room reading to her. Didn’t wake up until the next morning. The workers at the center were very nice to let me sleep there.”

“Well,” said Phoebe, “after twenty-two years, I’m sure they’re quite used to having you around.”

“Oh, they are,” said Patty. “I was planning to stop by and see her tomorrow. Patrice was by today, but I haven’t been by to see her in over a week. I feel like I’m letting her down.”

“I’m sure you aren’t,” said Phoebe. “I’ll go with you. I’m not working and don’t really have plans for the immediate future.”

“I’d appreciate that,” said Patty. “Patrice told me about meeting Piper there today. I guess you were trying to find some answers.”

“Yes, I was,” said Piper. “Everything started just after we met her there. So you can see how we thought you might be behind it.”

“I’d probably think the same thing,” said Patrice. “Well, until Patrice gets back with that vanquishing potion, I guess all we can do is wait. So tell me. What types of adventures do you remember having as the Charmed Ones? You never know. Maybe something you went through will help us. Assuming things stay as they are.”

The four spent the next few hours exchanging stories of the demons and warlocks they had fought and the innocents they had help.

[noazmale]

EIGHTEEN

Patty and Phoebe spent several hours the next morning with Pam. She remained as Phoebe had first seen her. Unconscious and unmoving. She looked very peaceful even considering she was hooked up to machines, most of which Phoebe couldn’t identify.

Phoebe even took a turn reading to Pam. Patty seemed to appreciate the assistance. Even after twenty-two years, Phoebe could tell it was hard on Patty. She wondered how she would feel if it was Piper or Paige lying in that bed.

“So,” said Patty, when they took a break from reading, “how is it that you and Cole Turner ended up together?”

“We were witnesses in one of his cases,” said Phoebe. “Of course, at the time, we didn’t know who he really was. By the time we found out, I was already in love with him. Things really got complicated after that, I can tell you. I’ll just be glad when . . . and if, I can get him back. It’s been really hard without him.”

“I can imagine,” said Patty.

“Why didn’t you ever marry?” asked Phoebe.

“Never could find the right person,” confided Patty. “I mean, we have to keep our being the Charmed Ones a secret. There were a couple of guys. But when they found out I was a witch, they couldn’t handle it.”

“I can understand that,” said Phoebe. “We’ve had our share of those, too.”

“You know,” said Patty, “it’s not that I don’t believe you. About reality being changed and all. It’s just that it’s a bit much to swallow. To have that kind of power would be incredible.”

“I know what you mean,” said Phoebe. “I know how it sounds. But as Piper said, our memories are too real, too vivid. I can’t believe it’s someone who’s just playing with our memories.”

Just then the door to the room opened and two men walked in. They were wearing the white coats that identified them as doctors. One was Dr. Cavanaugh, Pam’s regular physician. He introduced the other as Dr. Sommerset, a specialist.

“Dr. Sommerset is a neurologist,” explained Dr. Cavanaugh. “He’s run some test on Pam. I’m afraid the news isn’t good, Patty.”

“I’m afraid your sister’s condition is only going to get worse,” said Dr. Sommerset without preamble. “It seems that her synaptic pathways are beginning to deteriorate. Dr. Cavanaugh has been able to delay the degradation with drug therapy, but she’s beginning to build up a tolerance to the drugs. I’m afraid it’s only a matter of time before they won’t do any good.”

“I understand,” said Patty. “Dr. Cavanaugh told us this would eventually happen. We’ve been prepared for it for several years. How long before this happens?”

“Two to three weeks is my guess,” said Dr. Sommerset. “Maybe a month, depending on her resistance to the drugs. Not much longer, I’m afraid. It would probably be best if you made whatever arrangements you may need to make. I can assure you, she’ll remain unconscious. She won’t suffer.”

“Thank you,” said Patty. “My sisters and I appreciate everything you’ve done for her.”

“They seemed pretty blasé about it,” said Phoebe, after the doctors had left. “Almost as if they didn’t care.”

“They care,” said Patty. “Dr. Cavanaugh has been Pam’s doctor for the last eleven years. We’ve always asked him to be totally honest with us about her condition, even if the news was bad. And as I told Dr. Sommerset, it’s something we’ve been expecting. I just thought I would be better prepared for it after all these years.”

“No matter how much preparation you have,” said Phoebe, “you’re never really quite ready for it. I know from personal experience. I never knew my mother that well before she died. But when grams died, and then Prue, we didn’t really have much time to prepare. One moment they were with us, the next they were gone.”

“You’re right, of course,” said Patty. “Deep down I guess I always hoped she would come out of it. She was little more than a child when she was put into that coma. She didn’t even have a chance to live. I suppose we should get back to the manor. I need to tell Patrice and Paula. I’m sure they’re there by now. Patrice probably has the vanquishing potion ready.”

“Okay,” said Phoebe. “Maybe later on we can come back again.”

Patty just smiled, and then the two left the center and returned to the manor. When they got to the manor, Patrice and Paula were there. Patrice held up a small vial with a green colored liquid in it. The vanquishing potion for Belthazor was ready the next time he attacked.

Leo and Matilda were also there. The Elders had no idea what was going on, according to Leo. No one had ever exhibited any psychokinetic ability to the degree that they could change all of reality the way it had been changed. They had told Leo they would check into it and see what they could find out.

On a brighter note, they were able to confirm that Matilda was, indeed, a White Lighter. Everyone was perplexed at how she could be a White Lighter without anyone else knowing about her. Since she was a White Lighter, they had agreed to let her remain with the Halliwell sisters. If, and when, Belthazor returned, she would be an added protection against his power.

While they were in the living room talking, they suddenly heard the front door open. They all watched the entry way as a man walked into the house and stopped, looking into the living room.

“Hi,” said the man, putting a briefcase down on the floor. “I didn’t know we were having company.”

Everyone stared at the man in disbelief. While the others were startled, Phoebe was completely stunned. None could believe that this man had simply walked into the manor as if he belonged there. Standing in the entryway with an overcoat slung over his arm was Cole Turner.

[noazmale]

NINETEEN

Patrice and her sisters took up defensive postures between Cole and the Halliwells. Leo and Matilda moved in, ready to orb the now powerless Charmed Ones away at the first hint of danger.

“Come back to get your butt kicked again, demon?” asked Patrice, ready to attack at the slightest provocation.

“What?” asked Cole. He seemed genuinely surprised. “Phoebe, honey, you want to tell me what’s going on here?”

“Cole,” Phoebe whispered tentatively.

“Okay, this isn’t funny,” said Cole. “Piper, Paige, what the hell is happening here? What’s this about demons? Phoebe, you promised me you had quit hunting for demons. You know how much trouble we had when we got married. My boss wasn’t exactly thrilled with me marrying a convicted felon. My being an assistant district attorney and all. You promised me you wouldn’t do anything to jeopardize our marriage or my job.”

“It won’t work, demon,” said Patrice, holding up the vial with the vanquishing potion. “We’re ready for you now. Leave these innocents alone or we’ll destroy you. I don’t know what your game is, but you’ll never get to her or the others.”

“Demon?” questioned Cole. “I’m no demon. Granted, lawyers may not have the best reputations, but we’re a long way from being demons. Will someone please tell me what the hell is going on?”

“He acts like he doesn’t know what you’re taking about,” commented Matilda. “Is it possible that in this time line, Belthazor and Cole are different people?”

Phoebe stepped up next to Patrice and looked at Cole. She wanted so much to believe that he wasn’t a demon. That he was just another mortal, like so many she had helped to save in the past. He did seem genuinely surprised at the turn of events. But she also knew that Belthazor was very crafty.

“I’ve had enough of this,” said Patty suddenly. She raised her arms and Cole simply froze in place. “If he is Belthazor, that won’t hold him for long.”

“Yes,” said Leo, “but only if he fights against it. If he just stands there, there’s no way to know for sure.”

“There’s one way to tell,” said Phoebe. “Give me the vanquishing potion.”

“It’s the only one we have,” said Patrice. “If you use it, and he’s not really Belthazor, we’ll have lost our greatest weapon against him.”

“I know,” said Phoebe. “Don’t worry.” She took the vial and poured a small amount into her hand. “This small amount shouldn’t vanquish him, but it should cause some reaction in him. And if he is Belthazor, we’ll still have the potion to use against him.”

The others stood and watched as Phoebe moved up next to Cole. She paused hesitantly, looking up at him. Then, she reached up and smeared the potion in her hand onto his right cheek. Everyone watched, half expecting that the potion would cause some type of blistering sore on his exposed flesh. Nothing happened. The liquid simply ran down his cheek and stained the collar of his shirt green.

“Well,” said Piper, “it seems that this Cole is not Belthazor.”

“Apparently,” said Patty. “I suppose I can unfreeze him now. From the way he was talking, Phoebe must have been some kind of amateur demon hunter or something.”

Patty unfroze Cole and he stood looking at everyone. He suddenly noticed Phoebe standing next to him and felt the potion running down his cheek. He reached up and wiped the potion off his skin.

“Phoebe, what’s going on?” he demanded, his temper beginning to flare. “Who are all these people and why do they keep calling me a demon? I’d better start getting some answers real quick.”

Phoebe just hugged Cole close. After everything they had gone through, she had accepted the fact that, in this time line, they might have to vanquish him yet again. It was no small relief to discover that he was apparently as human and as mortal as she was.

“Mr. Turner,” said Leo finally, breaking the awkward silence, “we’ll answer all of your questions. But first, we need to have some answers of our own. It’s kind of complicated, but we’ll tell you what we can. To begin with, what did you mean when you said that Phoebe had promised to stop hunting demons?”

For a moment, Cole just stared at everyone as if they had all suddenly lost their minds.

* * *

“So, I’m supposed to be this demon, Belthazor?” questioned Cole, after the explanations had been made. “And I’m out to kill Phoebe and her sisters.”

“That’s about the size of it,” said Patrice. “At least, that’s what we thought. As we said, the way they remember it, they’re the Charmed Ones and you and Belthazor were the same person. Only they vanquished Belthazor and left you fully human. Then, you and Phoebe were married.”

“After we took over the underworld?” asked Cole, disbelief apparent in his voice.

“No, we did that after we got married,” Phoebe squeaked out. “It’s kind of a long story. We vanquished the Source, he possessed you, and then you and I took over the underworld. Then, we had to vanquish you when you threatened to kill Piper and Paige.”

“That’s the craziest thing I’ve ever heard,” said Cole. “I’m no more a demon than you are. I didn’t even believe in demons.”

“But you said that Phoebe used to hunt them,” said Paige.

“She was obsessed with them,” said Cole. “She was convinced they existed and kept looking for some way to prove it. She promised to give it up if we got married. Now, to find out she was not only right; that they actually do exist; but that one is actually after her.”

“Well, you saw me orb,” interjected Leo. “If White Lighters exist, you have to admit that demons do, too.”

Cole had not believed their story at first. He only relented when Leo finally orbed out then back in, proving the existence of White Lighters. After that, Cole had no choice but to accede.

“And you say this Belthazor is very dangerous?” asked Cole.

“He’s one of the upper level demons,” said Paula. “He specializes in killing witches. Although we aren’t quite sure why he’s after Phoebe.”

“I think I know,” said Cole. “Several years ago Phoebe witnessed a murder. The man who was eventually charged with the crime claimed that he had been possessed by a demon that forced him to kill. When the district attorney found out that Phoebe had witnessed the killing, he made a deal with her. She testifies for the prosecution and she gets a sentence reduction for her theft charges.

“It’s one of the reasons she was released early. I did most of the work on that case so Phoebe and I had a lot of contact. We fell in love, and after she was released from prison, we were married. I always assumed the killer was trying to cop to an insanity plea. Now, I’m not so sure.”

“But I didn’t witness any murder,” protested Phoebe.

“That’s not what you told me,” said Cole. “You said you saw the whole thing. But if what you say is true, and you’re not the same Phoebe, you may not have seen anything. If reality as we know it has changed, you may not have seen the murder.”

“Unless this is what all of this is about,” suggested Leo. “Maybe Patty’s right. Maybe it’s their memories that have been altered, not reality. So that Phoebe can’t testify. If she does, it’s possible that the existence of demons could come to light. That would be pretty good incentive to kill her.”

“Then how do you explain me?” asked Matilda. “How come I remember things the way they do? How come not even the Elders remember me when it’s quite evident that I’m a White Lighter?”

“I don’t know,” said Leo. “I don’t have all the answers.”

“Well,” said Patrice, “there was nothing in the Book of Shadows about any of this. It still doesn’t make any sense.”

“We’re missing something,” interjected Paige. “There has to be something we haven’t thought of. Even with this psychokinetic power, whoever is doing this had to have left some sort of clue. Something that will tell us what’s going on and why.”

“I wish I could accept that,” said Piper. “It would make things a lot easier to accept. But it seems that whoever is doing this has thought of everything.”

“I’ll leave the vanquishing potion with you,” said Patrice. “”You’ll need it if Belthazor should return. In the meantime, we do need to get back home. There are other innocents that need our protection.”

“We understand,” said Phoebe. “We remember what it was like to have to juggle a million things at the same time. I feel a lot better with Cole being back.”

“I never went anywhere,” protested Cole.

“Okay,” said Leo. “Matilda will stay with you. If you need anything, she can get hold of us. If we learn anything else, we’ll let you know.”

“So will we,” promised Piper.

Leo orbed Patrice and her sisters back to their home while Piper began to make up the sofa for Matilda. Even though it was still early, they knew it was going to be a long night.

[noazmale]

TWENTY

“How’d you sleep?” asked Paige as Piper came into the kitchen the next morning.

“Okay,” said Piper with little enthusiasm. “Phoebe’s not down yet?”

“Uh uh,” muttered Paige. “I guess she and Cole are still upstairs.”

“I envy her,” said Piper. “At least she has her husband back. I have to go to sleep knowing that my husband is living with another woman.”

“I guess it’s hard,” said Paige. “Having Leo so close and not being able to even touch him.”

“It is,” said Piper. “Everything was going so well after the Angel of Destiny visited us. I just wish we could figure out what’s going on. I want things to be like they were.”

“Don’t worry, honey,” said Paige. “I’m sure it’s only a matter of time.”

“A matter of time ‘till what?” asked Phoebe as she and Cole came into the kitchen with their arms around each other.

“Until we figure out what’s going on,” said Piper. “I’m not so sure that’s going to happen. There isn’t even a clue as to what’s going on.”

“Where’s Matilda?” asked Cole.

“She went to see if Leo had found out anything,” said Paige. “She should be back soon. Aren’t you supposed to be at work or something?”

“Took the day off,” said Cole. “I figured that whatever’s going on, you guys might need me around here.”

“I guess I should fix some breakfast,” said Piper, standing up and walking over to the refrigerator. “But I gotta tell ya, my heart’s not really in it today.”

“Didn’t you sleep well, sweetie?” asked Phoebe, putting her arm around Piper.

“No,” said Piper. “Ever since this thing started I keep having these strange dreams. I keep waking up during the night. But when I wake up, I can’t remember the dreams.”

“Then how do you know they’re strange?” asked Paige.

“I don’t know,” said Piper. “I can just feel it. It’s not just that we aren’t the Charmed Ones any more. It’s that things seem to keep changing. There’s no focal point. Just as we’re about to get adjusted to the way things are, something goes and changes on us. Like those necklaces we suddenly found. And Cole and Phoebe suddenly being married.”

“I know what you mean,” said Phoebe. “When Cole and I went up to our room, things had changed. His clothes were hanging in the closets; there was a picture of our wedding on the dresser, things like that. I’m sure they weren’t there when this all first started.”

“Speak for yourself,” said Cole. “Everything seems perfectly normal to me. Well, except with the sudden realization that demons do exist. That’s going to take some getting used to.”

“Maybe that’s a clue,” said Paige. “Things do keep changing, don’t they? Like someone keeps rewriting a script to get it right.”

“Patty and I were talking about that the other day,” said Phoebe. “That this all seemed like some sort of dream instead of reality. I didn’t say anything to her, but I agreed with her. It doesn’t seem real.”

“I’m not surprised,” said Cole. “If what you told me is true, this has got to be something of a nightmare.”

“That’s an understatement,” said Piper. “One I’d just as soon wake up from.”

“Well, Patty and I are supposed to go visit Pam again this morning,” said Phoebe. “As much as I love having my husband back, we still need to find out what’s going on here. I’m still convinced that my premonition has something to do with it. I just can’t figure out what.”

“Phoebe,” said Paige thoughtfully, “would you mind if I went instead of you? I don’t have anything to do and it will give you a chance to spend some time with Cole.”

“No, I don’t mind,” said Phoebe.

“What are you up to?” asked Piper suspiciously. “You have the strangest look in your eye.”

“Nothing,” said Paige innocently. “I just don’t want to be stuck around the house with nothing to do all day. I can’t go back to my office. If my boss were there, it would be almost impossible to convince him I left something else in my desk. I just thought I could stay busy and give Phoebe and Cole some quality time together.”

Before Piper could voice an objection to Paige’s explanation, Matilda and Patty orbed into the kitchen.

“Nothing new to report,” announced Matilda. “Leo checked with the Elders and they still don’t have a clue as to what’s going on. And no indication of who or what might have this kind of power.”

“Phoebe and I are going to visit Pam again this morning,” said Patty. “After the news the doctors gave us yesterday, I think it’s even more important now to spend time with her. We have so little of it left.”

“I’m going instead,” announced Paige, jumping up from her chair. “Phoebe and Cole are going to spend some time together. That is, if you don’t mind.”

“Not at all,” said Patty, forcing a smile. She was obviously still upset at the news the doctors had delivered yesterday. “I appreciate the company.”

“Great,” said Paige. “Matilda can orb us to the center. It will be a lot faster than driving.”

“Okay,” said Matilda. “But I need to get right back here. Phoebe, keep that vanquishing potion handy. There’s no telling when Belthazor will make another appearance.”

“Got it right here,” said Phoebe, holding up the vial of green liquid.

Matilda orbed Paige and Patty to the center where Pam lay in a constant state of unconsciousness. She left them with instructions that if anything was to happen, they should call for her immediately. She would hear them and orb in right away. Then she orbed back to the manor to be with Piper and Phoebe.

“You want to take the first turn or should I?” asked Patty.

“I will,” said Paige. “Why don’t you go find Pam’s doctor and see if there’s been any change since yesterday?”

“I’m sure there hasn’t been,” said Patty. “Cases like Pam’s don’t just miraculous get better.”

“It doesn’t hurt to check,” said Paige. “Who knows? They might actually have some good news for you for a change.”

“I guess you’re right,” said Patty. “I won’t be gone long. The book I was reading to Pam is on the nightstand. There’s a bookmark where I left off.”

“Okay,” said Paige.

She waited until Patty had left the room, and then wandered over to the window. She looked across the street at Stanford Health Care hospital across the street. Everything seemed so normal. Nothing seemed out of place.

“So normal except for what counts,” said Paige out loud, to no one in particular. “I miss my telekinetic ability. I was just getting used to it. I guess that’s gone forever.”

She walked over and sat down in the chair next to Pam’s bed. She picked up the book and opened to the place where the bookmark was. Then she began to read out loud to Pam.

Several minutes later Patty came back into the room. She told Paige that Dr. Cavanaugh didn’t have any news for her. There had been no change in Pam’s condition since she and Phoebe had been there yesterday. They spent most of the morning reading to Pam, and then called for Matilda to orb them back to the manor.

“No change,” announced Paige to Phoebe, Cole, and Piper, while Matilda orbed Patty back to her home. “The doctor says that Pam is stable right now, but she won’t stay that way.”

“I wish we could help her,” said Piper. “We may not be the Charmed Ones any more, but that doesn’t stop us from caring. It seems like such a waste. If only Leo or Matilda could use their healing powers on her. She’d be completely healed with no sign of the accident.”

“I thought you said that wasn’t allowed?” asked Paige.

“It’s not,” said Phoebe. “A White Lighter is only supposed to use his or her power to heal demon attacks. Still, it doesn’t keep us from wishing it was different.”

“Isn’t that kind of limiting?” asked Cole. “I mean, to have that kind of power and not be able to use it.”

“Maybe,” said Phoebe, “but the White Lighters are supposed to be advisors and guides for witches. Besides, it would take away some of people’s free will. At least, that’s how Leo once explained it to us.”

“I guess,” said Cole. “Still, to have a power like that and not be able to use it. It must be frustrating some times.”

“It is,” said Piper. “Leo and I have talked about it at great lengths. You have no idea how many times he’s wanted to heal someone but couldn’t.”

“Phoebe,” said Paige, holding out her hand, “would you pass me the television listings? I want to see what’s on TV tonight.”

Before Phoebe could move, the magazine containing the weekly television listings suddenly lifted off the coffee table as if under it’s own power. Then it simply floated over to Paige and landed gently on her outstretched hand.

“Yes,” said Paige, her tone one of excited success.

The others just stared at Paige for a moment.

“Okay, how did you do that?” demanded Piper. “None of us has any powers. How can you move objects like that?”

“I think I know what’s going on,” said Paige, looking at the magazine. “Matilda. Matilda, you need to get back here right now. I think I have this thing figured out.”

Suddenly, Matilda orbed into the living room. She stood looking around for a minute, a look of confusion on her face.

“What is it?” she asked. “I thought Belthazor might have returned.”

“No,” said Piper, “nothing like that. But something almost as interesting. Paige seems to have a power?”

“What?” questioned Matilda.

“Matilda,” said Paige, “there’s no time to waste. You need to orb us to Patty’s house. If I’m right, we should be able to put everything back the way it was.”

“How?” asked Matilda.

“No time for explanations now,” said Paige. “Just orb us to their house. This might take some explaining.”

Still confused, Matilda orbed Piper, Phoebe, Paige, and Cole out of the manor. The others were as confused as Matilda was.

[noazmale]

TWENTY-ONE

Everyone stood around Pam’s bed. Once Matilda had orbed the sisters and Cole to Patty’s place, Paige had insisted that they orb directly to Pam’s room. She promised to explain everything once they were there. Now, with the nine of them in the small room, it seemed extremely cramped.

“Okay,” said Leo, his patience obviously wearing thing, “you said you’d explain everything. Now, just what’s going on?”

“Only this,” said Paige. She held out her hand toward the book lying on the nightstand next to Pam’s bed. “Book, please,” she said. As before with the magazine, the book simply floated to her and landed softly in her hand.

“Wait a minute,” said Patrice. “You said you didn’t have any powers. How were you able to do that?”

“In a way, I didn’t,” said Paige. “The person who’s been doing all of this did. They gave me this power.”

“You know who’s doing it?” asked Piper. “Who? Is it some evil plot to destroy the Charmed Ones?”

“I don’t think so,” said Paige, sitting on the edge of Pam’s bed. “She’s doing. At least, I think she is.”

“That’s impossible,” said Paula. “She’s in a coma. She can’t even feed herself. How could she be doing all this?”

“Remember at the manor,” said Paige to Piper and Phoebe, “when Cole mentioned that it must be a nightmare for us?”

“Yes,” said the two sisters in unison.

“Then Phoebe mentioned that Patty said it all seemed like a dream,” continued Paige. “That it wasn’t all real.”

“I remember that,” said Patty. “What does that have to do with Pam?”

“Just this,” said Paige. “When we were talking the other day, Phoebe mentioned that it seemed like a child was doing this. A child who hadn’t learned the subtlety of tact.”

“Yeah, so?” asked Patrice.

“Pam was only thirteen when she had her accident,” said Paige. “She’s still very much a child. Emotionally, anyway. I think what’s happened here is that subconsciously she knew that her end was near. So, to help out her sisters, she used some latent psychokinetic ability to give them our powers. Maybe to repay them for the years of reading to her and simply being here with her day after day.”

“That’s a bit far fetched,” said Leo. “Pam never exhibited any type of power. How could she have suddenly developed it while she’s in a coma?”

“I don’t know,” said Paige. “But I remember when I was a kid I saw a movie called Forgotten Planet or Forbidden Planet or something like that. It was about this scientist who discovered this alien machine on a distant planet. The machine enhanced his mind and allowed him to do things that ordinary humans couldn’t do.”

“I remember that movie,” said Paula. “Pam and I went to see it about a month before the accident. It was playing at a theatre downtown and it was playing on a day when we were off from school for a teacher’s conference or something.”

“Well,” continued Paige, “in that movie, unknown to the scientist, it unleashed a monster or something from his subconscious. It killed several of the astronauts who had come to get him. It nearly destroyed them before they figured out what was going on and were able to escape the planet.”

“That’s right,” said Paula. “Actually, if I remember right, it was all of his subconscious fears and insecurities that the alien machine made come to life. And, if I recall, he had little control over it.”

“Exactly,” said Paige. “And another interesting point. It only appeared when the scientist was asleep. When his subconscious mind took control. I think that’s what’s happening here. Pam has some form of latent psychokinetic ability that, in her comatose state, has virtually free reign. Since she can’t wake up, it’s in control the entire time.”

“Interesting theory,” said Cole. “Only, there’s no way to prove it. No way to know for sure if you’re right.”

“Yes, there is,” said Paige, smiling. “When Patty and I were here this morning, I mentioned out loud that I missed my telekinetic ability. While Patty was out of the room. The only one who heard me was Pam. And later today, at the manor, I suddenly developed telekinetic ability. As if she was trying to repay me for taking my powers away.”

“But you didn’t have your normal power,” said Piper. “It was more like what Prue had. Yours worked differently from Prues’.”

“Exactly,” said Paige. “Only Pam had no way of knowing that. She just gave me the ability, as she knew it. The way most people would understand it.”

“Wait a minute,” said Patrice. “Are you telling me that she heard you? And that she used her latent psychokinetic ability to alter reality? She’s in a coma.”

“I know,” said Paige. “But when we first met you; before anything changed; you told us that some doctors believe that, even in a coma, some part of a person is still aware of what’s going on around them. They may not be consciously aware of it or even remember it later, but they believe that these people can still hear and understand what people say around them.”

“That’s right,” said Piper, “you did say that.”

“Even if that’s true,” said Matilda, “that still doesn’t explain how she was able to affect everything to the extent she has. No one has ever exhibited this level of psychokinetic ability. Nothing anywhere near it.”

“That’s because we only use about ten percent of our brain,” Paige continued. “Most of what we have, we never use. Unconscious as she is, there’s not telling how much of her brain Pam uses.”

“It still seems a bit far fetched to me,” said Patrice.

“Listen,” said Paige, “there are documented cases where people have been able to do some incredible things that science has never been able to explain. I once read about a woman who had dual personalities. In one personality, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. X-rays, blood work, all of the tests showed the cancer. It was very real. But when the other personality took over, there wasn’t a sign of cancer anywhere in her body.

“If that can happen in someone who’s conscious and aware, imagine what someone in a coma could accomplish? The subconscious mind can be very powerful. Any psychologist will tell you that a lot of our behavior can, and often is, controlled by our subconscious mind.”

Everyone in the room just stared at Paige. It was clear that none of them was convinced of her theory.

[noazmale]

TWENTY-TWO

“Paige, I know this has been hard,” said Leo. “But to expect us to believe that a woman who’s unconscious is doing all this is almost as incredible as asking us to believe that reality has changed. I think it’s more likely that someone has been playing with your memories.”

“Think about it,” said Paige. “The first time things changed was just after we met Patrice. Here in Pam’s room. While Patrice was out of the room, we talked about Phoebe’s vision and us being the Charmed Ones.”

“All that proves,” began Leo.

“I’m not finished,” said Paige. “The second time things changed was when Piper mentioned to Patty about the triquetra. That we had a similar ‘heirloom’ that we had lost recently. Then, bang, we suddenly have the necklaces each of us found.

“Next, Phoebe and Patty were talking about Phoebe and Cole being married. Then Cole suddenly walks into the house. Claiming to be Phoebe’s husband. He’s even an assistant district attorney. Only he’s not Belthazor. I’m not sure, but I’ll bet no one ever mentioned that Cole was Belthazor here in this room. So, Pam did what anyone would have done. She gave Cole back to Phoebe.”

“It could all be coincidence,” said Patrice.

“I don’t believe in coincidence,” said Paige. “Especially not where the Charmed One’s are concerned. Remember I said that there has to be a clue about what’s going on? I think this is that clue. Everything points to Pam. Phoebe, you even said you thought your premonition was about Pam, not Patrice. And all of the changes have happened after they were talked about in this room.”

“Assuming what you say is true,” said Leo, “what can we do about it?”

Paige stood up and moved to the head of Pam’s bed. She leaned down and spoke softly into Pam’s ear.

“Pam, we know what’s going on,” she whispered. “We understand you’re only trying to help your sisters. But you have to put things back the way they were. It’s not fair to us or to them. Piper has lost her husband. And her unborn child. No one has the right to take those away from her.

“I appreciate the power you gave me. But it’s not right. My telekinesis worked differently. I also can’t orb. And neither Piper nor Phoebe has their powers. Since Belthazor is after them, they need their powers to protect themselves.

“Pam, we’ll do everything we can to help your sisters. We promise. But this has to end. This is not the way things are supposed to be. You have to put things back the way they’re supposed to be.”

Everyone waited patiently to see if anything would change. Several moments passed with nothing. After a while, the tension seemed to ease somewhat.

“See,” said Leo, “nothing happened. Obviously, Pam couldn’t be behind this.”

“That can’t be right,” said Paige, disappointed. “I know I’m right. Everything points to it.”

“Sorry honey,” said Piper, putting her arm around Paige, “but Leo’s right. Maybe its just coincidence that everything happened the way you said. But there has to be another explanation for it. We just have to find out what it is.”

“Maybe you’re right,” said Paige. “I was just so sure. Everything pointed to it. I don’t see how I could be wrong.”

“No harm done,” said Patrice. “I guess we have to explore every possibility. I’m sure we’ll find figure out what’s going on soon. We just have to keep looking.”

Leo and Matilda orbed the people back to their respective homes. Paige seemed a bit despondent over the turn of events. Piper and Phoebe assured her that no harm had been done. At least, they said, they had eliminated one possible explanation for what was happening.

They made up the sofa for Matilda as usual. She still had no other place to stay and she would be needed if Belthazor made another appearance. Cole and Phoebe went up to their room, while Piper, Paige, and Matilda sat in the living room talking.

“I’m really sorry I put everyone through this,” said Paige.

“It’s okay, sweetie,” said Piper. “Everyone knows you had the best of intentions. At least Phoebe and Cole got to spend some time together. Cole has to be in court early in the morning, so you gave them some extra time together.”

“I’ll check in with the Elders again in the morning,” said Matilda. “They’re doing all they can to get to the bottom of this. Maybe they have something for us.”

“They haven’t been much help so far,” said Piper, a hint of sarcasm in her voice.

“I know you don’t have a lot of love for them,” said Matilda. “But just remember. They have done a lot of good. They’re the ones who are responsible for your being the Charmed Ones.”

“And now someone has taken that all away,” said Paige. “I’m going to get some sleep. Maybe after a good night’s rest I’ll be able to think more clearly.”

“Good idea,” said Piper. “It’s been a long day. I’ll see you both in the morning.”

Piper went up to her room and Paige went up to hers. Matilda, as usual, prepared to sleep on the sofa. Piper had been right. It was much more comfortable than it looked. Still, she would be glad when things were set straight and she could return to her normal life.

* * *

Try as she might, Paige found it difficult to sleep. She was convinced she was right. Pam was behind what was going on. Regardless of their failure at the center. Paige understood now that appealing to Pam’s good side wouldn’t be enough to make her returns things to the way they are supposed to be.

She didn’t think Pam was evil or bad. She was just a thirteen-year-old girl trying to help her sisters as best she could. She knew she was going to die soon. She also felt she had to do something to pay them back for all they had done for her. That was why everything had changed as they had.

Even though she was concerned about everything that was going on, there was something that bothered her even more. They had all been concerned with the changes that had occurred. None of them, it seemed, had considered another aspect of their current situation.

It bothered Paige. It felt as if she was deciding which of her sisters would be happy and which wouldn’t be. As hard as she tried, she just couldn’t see any way around it. One way or another, one of her sisters was going to loose her husband.

Well, Paige, reasoned to herself, maybe not. If things remained as they were, Leo and Piper would probably never get married, while Cole and Phoebe seemed to be very happy. If they were able to put things back, Leo and Piper would be together again. But Cole would go back to being . . . whatever he had become.

Maybe he and Phoebe would get back together, thought Paige. Maybe Cole was, again, the human she had known instead of reverting to his demonic former self. Somehow, Paige wasn’t convinced of that. Somehow, she had a very bad feeling about just what they would find out about Cole.

In the end, she really knew there was no choice. What was it that Piper had told her that Prue used to say? “The Charmed Ones come first.” That was always the final answer. No matter what happened to them personally, the Charmed Ones had to be of preeminent importance. Too many innocents counted on them, even if those innocents never even knew it. Too many lives hung in the balance.

Still, Paige was torn. It didn’t seem right that she be forced to make this decision. To decide if Leo and Piper or if Cole and Phoebe stayed together. To decide who would be happy and who would be miserable. She just wanted to go to sleep and forget about everything.

But she knew she couldn’t do that. Even deciding to do nothing was, in itself, a decision. A decision to allow things to remain as they are. A decision to let Phoebe be happy but to possibly keep Leo and Piper apart forever.

That may not happen, Paige reasoned to herself. They still didn’t know how Cole might have changed. And there was that pesky “the Charmed Ones come first” thing. Paige knew she really had no choice. If there was any chance of putting things back the way they were supposed to be, she knew she had to take it. It was still dark when Paige woke Matilda. The White Lighter sat up, half expecting to learn that Belthazor had returned.

“Nothing like that,” said Paige. “Listen, I’ve been thinking. I know I’m right about this thing with Pam. I’m sure she’s the one who’s doing it.”

“Paige, we’ve been through this,” said Matilda. “You talked to her. You tried to talk her into changing things back the way they were. It didn’t work. If she is doing this, she’s not listening to you.”

“I know,” said Paige. “I’ve been thinking about that. If she is doing this, it obviously isn’t malicious. I think she knows that she’s dying. And she’s trying to repay her sisters for everything they’ve done for her before she dies.”

“Okay,” said Matilda, “that makes sense. Assuming she does have this power. But there isn’t anything we can do about it, I’m afraid.”

“That’s not exactly true,” said Paige.

“What do you mean?” asked Matilda.

“What if Pam wasn’t dying?” asked Paige.

“Wait a minute,” said Matilda. “If you asking me what I think you’re asking me, forget it. White Lighters can only use their healing powers because of demonic attacks. You know that.”

“I know,” said Paige. “But, technically, you aren’t bound by those rules. Sure, you’re a White Lighter. But you’re not bound by all those rules. You’re what you might call a free agent. The Elders can’t expect you to simply sit by while things remain changed as they are.”

“It doesn’t work that way,” said Matilda. “Being a White Lighter is more than just following the rules. Whether or not the Elders would chastise me for breaking the rules isn’t the point. There are reasons for the rules. I agree with them. I can’t ignore them simply because it’s convenient.”

“I know I’m right,” said Paige. “This is the only way to prove it. Listen, if you heal her and nothing happens, no harm. Things will remain as they are and the only difference will be is that Pam will no longer be in a coma.

“But what if I’m right? And you don’t heal her. What happens when she dies? The doctors say it’s only a matter of weeks, perhaps days. If she’s doing this and she dies, what will our options be then?”

“None,” said Matilda hesitantly. “Assuming she is doing this, the power to put things right will die with her. They will remain as they are.”

“Exactly,” said Paige. “We have the opportunity to change things back the way they’re supposed to be. And all it takes is a little bending of the rules. I know that Leo’s bent the rules on occasion. I can’t believe he’s the only White Lighter who ever did.”

“No,” said Matilda, “he’s not. It does happen on occasion. The Elders frown on these instances, though.”

“I know,” said Paige. “But there’s too much at stake here to play it safe. This may be our only chance to fix things. I know it’s a risk, but I think it’s a risk we have to take.”

Matilda looked at Paige, thinking. Paige had a point. If Pam was behind all this, healing her might correct things. If she weren’t behind it, there would be hell to pay from the Elders when she used her healing powers for what the Elders would consider a foolish and irresponsible reason.

“There’s no guarantee this will work,” said Matilda. “Even if Pam is behind this, and we heal her, there’s no guarantee she’ll put things back the way they’re supposed to be. We’ll have no way of knowing if you’re right or not.”

“I’m willing to take that chance,” said Paige. “Since this thing started, all we’ve done is look for the cause of it. This is the first, and only, lead we’ve had. I don’t think we can pass on it. Not just for us. With these changes, the Source is still alive. That alone should be enough reason to at least try.”

“I see your point,” said Matilda, standing up. “Okay, we’ll give it a try. But on one condition. If this doesn’t work, you forget about Pam being behind this.”

“Agreed,” said Paige. “Besides, if it doesn’t work, it’s a pretty good indication that I’m wrong. But I’m not. I know I’m not.”

“Well,” said Matilda, “we should be able to orb into Pam’s room unnoticed.” She looked over at the clock. “Three thirty seven in the morning. I’m willing to bet that Pam will be completely alone at this hour.”

“Let’s go,” said Paige. “The sooner we get there, the sooner this will all be over.”

Paige took Matilda’s arm and the White Lighter orbed them into Pam’s room. The room was dark, except for a single light that was on over the bed. Pam looked as serene and peaceful as she had the on their previous visits. It was hard for Paige to believe that this woman was responsible for all the changes that had taken place. Still, all of the clues pointed to her.

“Go on,” whispered Paige. “In a couple of minutes this should all be over.”

“I hope so,” said Matilda. “I’m not looking forward to explaining to the Elders why I healed a woman injured by a simple car accident twenty-two years ago.”

Matilda bent over Pam and looked down at the woman. She was still not convinced that Paige was right. But Paige was right about one thing. Too much was at stake to take the risk.

She placed her hands over Pam’s head. A soft yellow glow covered Pam’s head for several seconds. Then it subsided and Matilda stood up and looked at Paige.

“That’s all I can do,” she announced.

“I know,” said Paige. “I guess we should go home and see if it worked.”

Matilda orbed them back to the manor. Paige looked around the living room. Everything seemed the same. But then, nothing had seemed different when things had first changed, either.

“So,” said Matilda. “How do we figure out if things are back the way they’re supposed to be? I could orb to the Elders and find out.”

“Wait,” said Paige, heading for the stairs, “I have an idea. If things have changed back, Phoebe should be alone in her room. Let’s take a little peak in on her. We’ll look in on Piper, too. Leo should be asleep in there if things are back to normal.”

Quietly, the two women went upstairs and stopped outside of Phoebe’s room. Paige listened at the door but didn’t hear any sound coming from inside. Cautiously, she opened the door only a crack; just enough to see in side. Phoebe was sleeping soundly in her bed. Lying beside her, sleeping just as soundly, was Cole.

Paige’s heart sank. Cole shouldn’t be there. If things were back to normal, Cole wouldn’t be anywhere around. Paige closed the door and quietly slipped over to Piper’s door. She listened for a moment, then opened the door just a crack. Lying in her bed, sleeping soundly and very much alone, was Piper. Paige quietly closed the door.

“I was so sure about this,” said Paige. “I don’t understand why it didn’t work.”

“It didn’t,” said Matilda. “It was a good idea. I’m sorry it didn’t work. We’d better get some sleep now. We still have to find out what’s going on. And who’s behind it. We’re going to need our rest. I’m going to check with the Elders again in the morning to see if they know anything. With any luck, they may not find out about this and I won’t have to explain anything.”

“Blame it on me,” said Paige. “I don’t mind. Besides, there’s not much they can do to me. I’m not a Charmed One any more, remember?”

Matilda just smiled, and then went back down to the living room. Paige went back to her room but found it difficult to sleep. She had been so sure about Pam. Now, she didn’t have any idea what to do next. It was getting very, very frustrating.

[dylan345]

Any more updates? Now I've got to know because I thought I had everything figured out and now I don't at all.

[noazmale]

TWENTY-THREE

“Morning everyone,” said Paige, coming into the kitchen the next morning. Piper, Phoebe, and Matilda were already there. “Matilda, I thought you were going to check with the Elders this morning?”

“I’m going in a few minutes,” said Matilda. “Piper has fixed another of her great meals. You are such a good cook, Piper. I think it’s a shame you gave up being a chef.”

“Yeah, well, things don’t always work out the way we planned,” said Piper. “I’m perfectly happy with the way things have turned out. Or had turned out. Oh, this can really mess with your mind.”

“I know what you mean,” said Paige. “I was so sure about what was causing this. I really am sorry about all the trouble I caused. I should have thought things through a little more before I said anything.”

“Already forgotten,” said Piper. “Now, sit down and eat while everything is still hot. I haven’t slaved over a stove all morning to let this food go to waste.”

“I guess Cole has already gone to court, huh?” asked Paige while they were eating.

“I suppose,” said Phoebe. “He was gone this morning when I got up. He did say he had to be there early this morning. I just didn’t realize how early. I miss him.”

“He’ll be back soon,” said Matilda. “In the mean time, I guess I should be getting ‘up there’. The sooner I see if the Elders know anything, the sooner I can get back here. Belthazor is still out there somewhere. I want to make sure I’m here when he attacks again.”

“Not a problem,” said Phoebe, pulling the vial with the vanquishing potion out of her pocket. “I’m ready for him. The minute he shimmers in, we’ll be rid of him forever. Then we won’t have to worry about demon attacks ever again.”

‘Maybe not,” said Piper. “Belthazor is a mercenary. Which means he was hired by someone to kill you. If we vanquish him, it’s possible that whoever hired him will just get someone else to finish the job.”

“We can worry about that later,” said Phoebe. “Right now, our main problem is Belthazor. Maybe once we vanquish Belthazor, whoever sent him after us will think twice about sending anyone else after us.”

“Maybe,” said Matilda. “But until we figure out what’s going on, Belthazor will have to wait.”

Suddenly, Leo orbed into the kitchen. No one was really surprised to see him. In this altered time line, they were getting to be friends with him as well as the new Charmed Ones. Leo stood looking at the Halliwells for a moment, and then looked at Matilda.

“Matilda,” said Leo, with a look of confusion on his face, “what are you doing here?”

“I’m staying around as much as possible,” said Matilda. “In case Belthazor attacks again. If nothing else, I can orb Phoebe away before he can do any harm.”

“Belthazor?” questioned Leo. “How could Belthazor harm anyone? They vanquished him months ago. At least you stripped him from Cole. What I don’t understand is why you’re here, Matilda.”

“What do you mean?” asked Piper. “We explained all that the other day. Since no one remembers who she is, we all thought it was best if she stayed with us. Now that you have new charges and all.”

“What new charges?” asked Leo. “Now, I’m totally confused. I’ve been your White Lighter since you became the Charmed Ones. I don’t have any new charges. Unless I’m being reassigned. Is that why you’re here, Matilda? Am I getting a new assignment?”

The four women looked at Leo in total confusion. He was talking as if nothing had happened in the last few days. As if they were still the Charmed Ones.

“Leo, what are you talking about?” asked Piper. “You know perfectly well what we’re talking about.”

“Maybe he doesn’t,” said Matilda. She picked up a cup from the table. “Piper, see if you can freeze this.” She threw the cup into the air.

Piper watched as the cup arched in the air and began to descend back toward the table. As it did, Piper raised her hands and the cup suddenly froze in midair. Everyone but Leo stared at the dangling cup in total amazement.

“Let me try,” said Paige.

Paige suddenly orbed out, and a moment later came walking back through the kitchen door.

“I can orb,” she announced excitedly. “I can orb again. Matilda, I was right after all. I guess it just took a while for things to be put back the way they were supposed to be.”

“So it would seem,” said Matilda. “It would also seem that you all have your powers back. And I’m willing to bet that more than that has changed. I think that everything is probably back to the way they’re supposed to be.”

“What do you mean ‘the way they’re supposed to be’”? asked Leo. “Will someone explain to me what you’re all talking about? And just why the head of the White Lighter Council is protecting my charges?”

“Head of the White Lighter Council?” asked Phoebe. “I thought you said you were just another White Lighter?”

“Just another White Lighter”? questioned Leo. “Is that what she told you? Matilda always was extremely modest. She’s not just another White Lighter. She’s the head of the White Lighter council. They help the Elders decide which person should become a White Lighter.”

“Yeah, that much we know,” said Piper.

“Well, what Matilda may not have told you,” said Leo, “is that she’s no ordinary White Lighter. She’s actually the very first White Lighter. The first person that was ever blessed with being a White Lighter. Most White Lighters don’t even know how long she’s been a White Lighter and she’s always refused to tell anyone.”

“It’s not important,” commented Matilda. “We all serve the Elders. All White Lighters are important. Especially the Charmed One’s White Lighter.”

“Which brings me back to my original question,” said Leo. “What is all this talk about me having new charges? And things changing. Am I being reassigned? Is that why you’re here?”

“Not exactly,” said Piper. “Leo, what do you remember about the last four years?”

“What kind of question is that?” asked Leo.

“Just answer it,” said Piper.

“Okay,” said Leo. “Four years ago Phoebe opened the Book of Shadows and she, you, and Prue became the Charmed Ones. About a year ago Prue died fighting the Source and Paige came into your lives, restoring the Power of Three. A few months ago you defeated the Source and fulfilled your destiny.”

“What about us?” asked Piper. “What do you remember about you and me?”

“Is this some kind of test?” asked Leo. “You know as well as I do that you and I are married. We have been for some time. And you’re expecting our first child.”

Piper just squealed and threw her arms around Leo and hugged him close. Phoebe and Paige just looked at each other smiling. Apparently everything had changed back to the way they were supposed to be. Even though they were thrilled with the changes, they were still perplexed at what had happened.

“Leo,” said Piper, “you’d better sit down. We have a story to tell you. And I’m not sure exactly where to start.”

* * *

“That’s one hell of a story,” said Leo. “You’re saying that someone changed all of reality, making you normal humans and making someone else the Charmed Ones. And I didn’t know anything about it?”

“That’s about the size of it,” said Matilda. “Believe me, Leo, I know how you must feel right now. As we said, I was away on retreat when it happened, so I was protected from the changes. And it seems we owe Paige an apology. It seems she was right.”

“About what?” asked Piper.

“About Pam,” said Matilda. “Last night, after you had all gone to sleep, Paige convinced me that Pam just might be behind everything. She said that if Pam was healed, things might be put back the way they were supposed to be. I was skeptical, but I felt there was too much at risk not to take that chance.”

“You healed her?” asked Leo. “That’s not allowed. How many times have you told me that? Healing powers are only to be used for demonic attacks. Anything else is unacceptable.”

“I know,” said Matilda. “But I thought it was necessary. As it turns out, it seems that Paige was right. With Pam healed, things have been set right again.”

“So, everything is back to normal?” asked Leo.

“It would seem so,” said Phoebe. “Paige and I will have to make a couple of phone calls to make sure, but I think we’ll find that things are back the way they were. Which means I’m no longer a klepto.”

“A what?” asked Leo.

“Long story,” said Piper. “I’ll tell you all about it. Right now, I want to spend some time alone with my husband. Leo, let’s go upstairs.”

Still not completely sure of what was going on, Leo just smiled then orbed Piper and himself up to their room.

[noazmale]

TWENTY-FOUR

Piper, Phoebe, and Paige stood at the end of the hallway with Leo and Matilda behind them. They had gone to the Calvin Treatment Center to see how Pam was doing. When they got there, they found a large group of people in and around her room.

Words like “miraculous”, “impossible”, “incredible”, and “remarkable” could be heard. They had been there only a few minutes when Doctors Cavanaugh and Sommerset came out of the room. Dr. Sommerset was holding an x-ray in his hand.

“Jack,” said Sommerset, “I just don’t understand it. There’s no sign of any injury, not even any scar tissue from the surgeries her record indicates she’s had. This is simply not medically possible.”

‘You’re holding the x-ray right now,” said Cavanaugh. “You took the x-ray yourself. Tell me, how do you explain it?”

“I can’t,” said Sommerset. “I’ve seen some pretty amazing things in my twenty-three years as a doctor. But this is nothing short of a miracle. It’s the only way I can describe it. It’s a bloody miracle.”

Together, the two doctors walked down the hall discussing what had happened. The sisters, Leo, and Matilda waited patiently until nearly everyone had left Pam’s room. Then, they walked up to the door and cautiously looked in.

Pam was still in her bed, but instead of lying unconscious, she was sitting up, several pillows propped up behind her. Patrice was sitting in a chair next to the bed and Patty and Paula sat in chairs at the foot of the bed. Patrice looked over as the others stood in the doorway.

“Well, it seems we have guests,” said Patrice, standing up. “Patty, Paula, these are the young women I told you about the other day. This is Piper and her husband, Leo, I believe it was. And these are Piper’s sisters, Phoebe and Paige. I don’t believe I know the other woman.”

“My name is Matilda,” said Matilda. “I’m . . . a friend of the family.”

“You’re welcome, of course,” said Patty. “Patrice told us of your kindness. We all appreciate what you did.”

“I see that Pam is feeling better,” said Paige.

“Yes, very much,” said Pam. “I woke up this morning with no idea where I was. You can imagine my shock when I discovered I had been in a coma for twenty-two years.”

“It must have been quite a shock,” said Phoebe. “We overheard your doctors talking. It appears you’ve made a complete recovery.”

“Yes, that’s right,” said Paula. “They can’t explain it. Just the other day they informed us that Pam was building up a resistance to the drugs she’s been taking. Then, this morning, she simply wakes up and is completely healed. It’s nothing short of a miracle.”

“So it would seem,” said Leo, glancing nervously at Matilda. “People can be quite resilient.”

“Yes, they can,” said Patrice.

“I have the strangest feeling that I should be thanking you,” said Pam, looking at Paige. “I don’t know why. It’s almost as if you did something for my sisters and me that I should thank you for.”

“Well,” said Paige, looking around nervously, “I’m not sure what to say. We, uh, really haven’t done that much. There’s, uh, really nothing to thank me for.”

“Still,” said Pam, “I have the feeling I should thank you.”

“You just get better,” said Piper. “That will be thanks enough for all of us.”

“She’s better all ready,” said Paula. “Dr. Cavanaugh said that there’s nothing wrong with her. He wants to keep her here for a few days to run some tests, but then we can take her home. She has a lot of catching up to do.”

“If there’s anything we can do to help,” said Piper, “just let us know. And when you’re feeling up to it, come by my club, P3. You’ll be my guests.”

“Thank you,” said Patrice. “It would be nice to go out and celebrate Pam’s recovery. None of us have had much of a social life for quite a long time.”

“We’ll have to do something about that,” said Phoebe. “P3 is a great place to start.”

“Thanks again for everything,” said Pam. “I hope you’ll keep in touch. Other than my sisters, I don’t really have any friends. I need to start making some.”

“No problem with that,” said Paige, hugging Pam close. “You can’t have too many friends. You just rest up. We’ll stay in touch, you can count on it.”

“Thank you again for everything,” said Patrice as she walked the others to the elevator. “You really have been a blessing if even for a few days. I can’t help but feel that you had something to do with Pam’s recovery. I know it doesn’t make any sense, but that’s how I feel. We all do.”

“We’re glad we could be of help,” said Piper. “And don’t forget about that invitation to P3. We’re going to have a real big bash. I think we could all use a break for a change.”

She looked over at Paige who just smiled innocently.

“My, that’s a very handsome locket,” said Patrice, noticing the locket Paige had bought Phoebe.

“Thank you,” said Phoebe. “It was a gift from Paige.”

“Pam used to have a locket like that,” said Patrice. “I’m afraid I had to sell it some months ago. We knew that Pam wasn’t going to be around very long so we decided it was time to get rid of most of her things.”

“This is probably hers,” said Phoebe. “Paige got it at a second hand store near where she works. If you’d like to have it back, you’re welcome to it. I’m sure it means more to you than it does to me.”

“No, that’s okay,” said Patrice. “You keep it. Consider it a small payment for everything you’ve done. Besides, it looks very nice on you. Almost as if it was made for you.”

“That explains how I got the premonition,” said Phoebe after Patrice had returned to Pam’s room. “Pam’s psychokinetic power must have put such a powerful impression on the locket that it triggered my premonition.”

“That makes sense,” said Leo. “A power like hers can do just about anything.”

“We should be getting home,” said Matilda.

They stepped into the elevator and stood patiently while the doors closed. Once the elevator doors closed, Leo and Matilda orbed the sisters back to the manor.

* * *

“Matilda,” said Piper back at the manor, “it was a genuine pleasure to meet you. Even if it was under such weird circumstances.”

“The pleasure was all mine,” said Matilda. “It felt good to get back in the field again. It’s been many decades since I was able to directly help anyone. As I said before, most of my duties are administrative.”

“Well, as head of the council, you do have the option of going into the field when you want,” said Leo. “You’ve always said your place was with the council.”

“I may have to rethink that,” said Matilda. “I suppose I should be getting back now. Leo, come visit soon. And maybe you’ll finally take that retreat I’ve been trying to get you to take for the past sixty years.”

“Maybe,” said Leo. “And I will visit soon. I hope we’ll see you again.”

“Count on it,” said Matilda. “That sofa is quite comfortable. I might just take a vacation here if none of you mind.”

“You’re welcome any time,” said Piper. “Only let’s leave the reality altering behind. These past few days have been exhausting.”

“I’m sure it won’t happen again,” said Matilda. “Apparently, Pam’s power was mostly subconscious. It may manifest itself in her conscious mind eventually, but you won’t have to worry about her changing reality again. Now, I must be going. I’ll be seeing you around.”

“Paige,” said Piper after Matilda had orbed out, “you went behind our backs. You talked Matilda into healing Pam even after we had determined that she wasn’t behind the changes.”

“I know,” said Paige, apologetically. “I’m sorry. I was so convinced I was right. I couldn’t just give up. And from the way things turned out . . .”

“Thank you,” said Piper, kissing her sister on the cheek. “If it wasn’t for you, we might never have gotten things back the way they’re supposed to be. I just hope we don’t have an opportunity for anything similar in the future.”

“I’ll go along with that,” said Phoebe. “Well, it’s almost noon. What say we get some lunch?”

“I think,” said Leo, “that you’ve earned a meal out. Let’s all go out to eat. Give Piper a break from cooking for a change.”

“I knew there was a reason I married you,” said Piper, kissing her husband.

They walked out to Paige’s car so they could find a nice restaurant for lunch. As they walked out to the car, Paige thought about Pam. If she could focus her power consciously, she could become a very powerful force for good. But considering the demon attacks the Charmed Ones suffered day after day, she decided maybe it was better if she never did develop her power.

The End

[dylan345]

That was a great story. I loved the concept of how powerful the mind can be.

I hope you continue to write more.

[Astral Echo]

It really was a fantastic idea. Congratulations, noaz.

[Esmeralda]

I was just browsing the fanfic titles and the title "Uncharmed" fascinated me. I've loved every Noazmale fanfic that I've read, so I knew I had to read this one, and once I started, I couldn't stop - I HAD to know what was going on! I'll admit I thought it was Matilda behind it She was a bit of a MarySue something that usually doesn't show up in Noaz'a stories. Having it be Pam makes a lot more sense.

What I've always loved best about Noaz's story is that unlike most fanfics (especially ones written by someone who thinks only his fics take place in the real Charmedverse when he changes everything), Noaz always tells when his stories take place and makes sure that they start and end with the way the episodes when he says his fic takes place between do with nothing changed - they truly take place in the Canon Charmedverse.

I STRONGLY recommend this fic - and all of his other ones.