DISCLAIMER: All characters in this story belong to Spelling Television and Constance Burge with the exceptions of Brantley, Tate Duncan, Dr. Grant, and Myra which I created.

Piper is sitting at the bar in Quake going over the books when Phoebe walks in. "Hi, Piper. What's going on?"

Piper looks up at Phoebe and says, "Hey, Pheebs. Not too much. Just going over last night's receipts."

Phoebe sets down next to Piper and rests her chin on her hand. "So what are your plans for tonight?"

Piper responds, "Oh, I don't know. I'll probably just go home and curl up with a good book."

"Piper," Phoebe says, "why don't you come out with me tonight? There's a new club I've been dying to try out."

"I don't know, Pheebs. I just haven't been in the mood for partying since I found out about Leo."

"Come on. It will do you good to get out and have some fun! Piper you need to face the fact that Leo is out of reach. You're young and beautiful! Get out and meet new guys. Besides, I hear this club has a kick ass house band. Please! Do this as a favor for me." After Phoebe's little speech, Piper decides that a night out might good for her but warns Phoebe that she might go home early.

* * *

Later that night at the Halliwell manor, Prue and Phoebe are in Piper's room helping her to get ready for the club. "Piper, I am glad you're going out tonight. You deserve to have some fun." Prue says.

Phoebe chimes in saying, "And in that dress you'll have to beat all the guys off with a stick."

"Phoebe, I am just going out for a little music and dancing. I'm not looking to get involved with anyone tonight."

"Who said 'involved'? Did I say involved? Prue? Piper, all I want is for you to have some fun. And as long as you practice safe sex, it can be lots and lots of fun!"

After all three dissolve into laughter, Piper says, "What about you, Prue? Want to come out and play with us tonight?"

Prue suddenly gets serious and says, "No, I'm just not up to it yet. You know, it's just my luck that when I finally admit that I love Andy, I lose him forever."

Piper gives Prue a comforting hug and says, "I know what you mean, sis. What you need is time. You'll never forget the love that you have for Andy, but you will heal. Take it from someone who's been there and done that."

Phoebe mutters, "More than once." under her breath.

"What did you say, Pheebs?" Piper asks.

"Oh nothing. So... Prue, what are you going to do tonight?" Phoebe hastily asks, trying to cover up her previous statement.

"Not much. I'll probably watch some TV and go to bed early."

Knowing that there is nothing they can say or do to help Prue, Piper and Phoebe head downstairs. "You did call a cab didn't you, Phoebe?"

"Yes and it should be here any minute now." The cab pulls up to the curb and the girls get in.

As they head off to the address Phoebe gave to the driver, Piper asks, "What did you say was the name of this club we're going to?"

"Double Entendre and it's supposed to be the most happening club right now. Guaranteed to put joy back into your life."

"I'm still not sure what kind of company I will be." sighs Piper.

"Just loosen up, relax, and get ready to dance the night away!" exclaims Phoebe.

The cab pulls up to the club and Phoebe says, "Double Entendre get ready for the Halliwell sisters!" Since it's been a while since she's been in a club, Piper is not ready for the noise and the mass of people inside. Noticing her reluctance, Phoebe links arms with her and half drags her into the bar. When she does this a premonition occurs to Phoebe. She sees a very attractive man in his late 20's coaxing Piper out to the dance floor.

But Piper is not aware of the premonition and is still not convinced that she will have a good time. "I don't even know what I am doing here, Phoebe!"

"Come on, Piper, a little dancing, meeting guys... what's the harm?"

"Phoebe, you know my track record with men."

"Relax, Piper, I really think you'll have a good time. Now, let's go get a drink." After getting their drinks they make their way through the crowd until they find an unoccupied table. Sitting down Phoebe says, "Wow! Can you believe that band? They're almost as good as Remy Zero."

Knowing that Phoebe has a major crush on a band member in Remy Zero, Piper smiles and says, "Maybe you can fantasize that one of them is Cinjun, Pheebs." Phoebe makes a face at her and concentrates on the band.

A few minutes later a tall, extremely attractive guy walks up to the table. He looks at Piper and says, "Hi, my name is Brantley and I couldn't help but notice you when you walked in. Would you dance with me?"

Piper starts to make an excuse but Phoebe, recognizing the guy from her premonition, says, "Of course she will." Piper givers her the look and Phoebe says, "Trust me. Have I ever steered you wrong?" Piper rolls her eyes and gets up to go out on the dance floor. Meanwhile, Phoebe notices that the lead guitar player is staring at her. So, she stares back with dreamy eyes.

Piper and Brantley dance until the band stops to take a break. They head back to the table and sit down. The guitarist from the band also heads over to the table. He sits down next to Phoebe and says, "I'd ask you to dance but I can't stand dancing to anything but a live band." He smiles at her saying, "My name is Tate Duncan. What's yours?"

"Phoebe. And I love your sound. What's it like being in one of the hottest house bands in the Bay area?"

"Actually, it's great! I get to do what I love and hopefully, one day, we won't just be a house band." They continue with their conversation while Piper and Brantley are getting to know one another.

"Whew!" Piper says, "Thanks for the dance."

"It was my pleasure. Are you thirsty?"

"I think parched would be more appropriate." Piper responds.

"I'll go get a fresh round of drinks. Phoebe, how about you?"

"No thanks. I'm fine for now." Looking slightly disappointed, Brantley heads toward the bar.

Tate looks at Piper and says, "It was nice meeting you." Then he turns to Phoebe and says, "I've got to get back up there. We start back up in a couple of minutes. I'll try to catch up with you after this set." Phoebe tell him that she will be looking forward to it.

Phoebe turns to Piper and says, "Spill! How's it going between you two?"

"He's a great guy. And, once again, I owe you my thanks."

"What for?" Phoebe asks.

"I'm really enjoying myself despite my earlier misgivings. Thanks for making me come out tonight."

Phoebe sets back in her chair with a smug look on her face. "You should listen to me more often."

* * *

Meanwhile, Tate joins Brantley at the bar. "How's it going?" Tate asks.

Brantley looks at him and says, "No problem on my end. What about you?"

"I should be able to complete my part after the next set."

The bartender hands Brantley a beer and a glass of wine. Brantley passes his hand over the wine. For a split second the wine turns yellow. Almost instantaneously, it turns back to red. Brantley picks up the drinks and goes back to the table. "Here you go, Piper. This should ease your thirst."

"Thanks." Piper says as she picks up the glass and takes a sip. Brantley sits down and they begin to talk. Just then someone says, "Phoebe! Phoebe Halliwell!" Phoebe looks up and sees Brent Miller.

"Brent, what are you doing here?"

"I'm just checking out the new club. My life has been so different since I regained my eyesight. Would you like to dance?"

"Sure." Phoebe says getting up.

Brantley looks at Piper, "Want to do it again?"

Piper shakes her head and says, "No. I think that I'll pass for now." She and Brantley continue talking while Phoebe and Brent dance the next few songs.

Coming back to the table, Phoebe says, "Nothing like dancing to help keep you in shape!" Brent sits down next to Phoebe. Phoebe looks over at Piper and notices how pale she's become. "Piper, are you okay?"

"I don't know. I feel kind of strange. Maybe I'm coming down with the flu or something. I think I just need to go home and get some sleep."

"OK," Phoebe says, "let's go."

"No, Pheebs. I can get home by myself. You stay and have fun. There's no need for both of our night's to be ruined."

"Piper, I really think that I should make sure you get home okay."

Brantley chimes in saying, "I'll make sure she gets in a cab."

Reluctantly, Phoebe agrees, "Okay. I'll check on you when I get home." Phoebe and Brent watch them go out the door and then they head back to the dance floor.

* * *

A couple of hours later the phone rings at the manor. Sleepily, Prue answers, "Hello?"

"Is this the Halliwell residence?" an unfamiliar voice asks.

Alarmed and instantly awake, Prue says, "Yes. What can I do for you?"

"To whom am I speaking?" the strange voice asks.

"This is Prue Halliwell."

"Ms. Halliwell, do you know a... Piper Halliwell?"

"Yes. She's my sister." Prue responds cautiously.

"Ms. Halliwell, this is the Bay Area General Hospital and we need for you to come here as soon as you can. Your sister has been injured and we need to get some information from you,"

"What! How is she? What happened? Is she going to be alright?"

"The doctor will let you know her condition when you get here. Right now she is in the ER."

"Okay, I'm on my way." Prue frantically gets dressed fearing the worst for Piper. On her way out she checks Phoebe's room and sees that it is empty. Wondering where she is and why she didn't call to tell her about Piper, Prue rushes out the door.

* * *

After racing to the hospital, Prue checks in at ER reception. "I'm Prue Halliwell. You guys called me about my sister, Piper."

"Oh yes. Please wait. I'll contact the doctor."

A couple of minutes later a man in surgical scrubs walks out. "Ms. Halliwell?"

"Yes." Prue answers.

"Hi. I'm Dr. Grant. Please come with me." He leads her to a private area and says, "Your sister is alive but I need to ask you a few questions."

"What's wrong with her? What happened?" Prue asks in a near panic.

"That's what we need to find out." he says. "Right now your sister is in a coma."

"Oh my God." Prue says.

Dr. Grant continues, "She's lost a lot of blood and it looks like she was pushed out of a moving car. As for her injuries, she has a couple of broken ribs, her arm is fractured, and she has a concussion. Along with assorted contusions and lacerations. However, none of these injuries account for why she is in a coma. I need to ask you a few questions and I need for you to be as honest as possible."

"Of course." Prue responds.

"Is Piper allergic to anything?"

"Not as far as I know."

"Okay, Ms. Halliwell, is she on any medication?"

"I don't think so. No, she hasn't been sick lately."

"Do you know if she takes any illegal drugs?"

"Absolutely not!" Prue responds angrily. "Piper barely drinks any alcohol."

The doctor sighs heavily, "To tell you the truth, Ms. Halliwell, I'm stumped. I don't know what is causing the coma. The strange part is that it almost looks as if someone bled her."

"What do you mean?" Prue asks.

"Well, according to the police there wasn't enough blood where she was found to account for the amount that she's lost. And none of the lacerations or contusions would make her lose any significant amount. She's not bleeding internally according to tests we've run. However, I am still waiting on toxicology results which may give us some answers."

"When can I see her?"

"I'm having her transferred to the ICU now, so it will be a few minutes. Wait. I just thought of something. Is it possible someone might have given her a drug without her knowing it?"

"I don't know." a confused Prue answered. "Maybe. She went out to a new club tonight with our younger sister."

"Is she with you?"

"No, I thought that she would be here."

"In light of what's happened, you'd better tell the police about her. They're waiting to talk with you now."

After telling the police what little she knew and finding out that they didn't know any more than what Dr. Grant had told her, Prue is directed to the ICU waiting area and told that someone would let her know when she could see Piper.

* * *

Meanwhile, at an abandoned warehouse, Brantley and Tate are discussing the night's events. "What happened?" Brantley exclaims. "How did Phoebe get away?"

Tate shakes his head and says, "There was nothing I could do. An old friend showed up and she left with him."

"We can't steal their powers unless we have the blood of all three witches. The incantation won't work with just Piper's blood!" Tate starts to interrupt but Brantley says, "Shut up! Just shut up and let me think! Damn it, you were supposed to use your magic to put Phoebe in a coma and steal her blood. Then it would have been a simple matter to get Prue's since the witches would be divided and unable to use the power of three against us."

"You didn't drain too much blood out of Piper, did you? You know they all three have to be alive when the incantation is read."

"No," Brantley replied, "she should be okay. I drained enough to make sure that she would be very weak and I made sure to dump her where she would be found quickly. However, my spell will be wearing off soon and she'll come out of the coma."

"We can't let that happen, Brantley! She'll remember that it was you that did this to her."

"I know... I know. Hold on a minute! Okay, here's the plan. You go back to Double Entendre as usual and act as if nothing has happened. Phoebe will probably show up trying to find out what happened to Piper. When she does make sure you take care of her! Don't let her get away again."

"I won't." Tate replies. "But, what are you going to do about Piper?"

"Just let me take care of that." Brantley responds mysteriously.

* * *

After seeing Piper and being told that she can only visit her for 15 minutes every other hour, Prue decides to go home and try to find out what happened to Phoebe. A very weary Prue walks in and sees Phoebe lying on the couch. Throwing her purse and coat down, Prue runs into the living room and shakes Phoebe. "Phoebe, oh my God, are you okay?!"

Phoebe sits up and is immediately enveloped in a bone crushing hug. Sleepily, she says, "Prue, what's going on? What's the matter?"

"Where have you been, Phoebe?"

"After Double Entendre, Brent and I went to a couple of other clubs. Why?" she looks at Prue suspiciously, "What's going on? And where is Piper? I checked on her when I got home and she wasn't in her room. And when I checked yours, you were gone too. I didn't know what to do! I came down here to wait on you guys and I guess I fell asleep."

"Phoebe, Piper is in the hospital. She's in a coma."

Phoebe looks stunned. "What! How...is she going to be okay?"

"We don't know, Pheebs. I need for you to tell me what happened last night."

"Well, when we got to the club we got drinks and set down at a table. Some guy asked Piper to dance and the guitarist from the band came over to talk with me. Then Brent Miller showed up and we danced. When I got back to the table Piper was pale and said she thought that she was coming down with the flu. She decided to come home and get some sleep. I started to go with her but she wanted me to stay at the club. The guy she was with offered to see her to a cab and she left."

"Okay, Pheebs, do you remember the guy's name or if he was acting weird or anything?"

"No. He acted fine. His name is... Brandon? No, Brantley. I'm not sure if he ever said his last name."

"What does he look like?"

"Tall, extremely good looking, buff bod, dark hair and eyes. Wait a minute... you think he might have done something to Piper? Prue, I pushed him on her. This is all my fault!"

"Slow down, Phoebe. I didn't say that. It's just that nobody knows what happened and I sure would like to hear his version. There's something strange going on, Pheebs."

"Meaning?"

"Well, Piper wasn't assaulted. She was bled and pushed out of a moving car Which, apparently, caused all of her physical injuries. The doctor said that her injuries wouldn't have caused her to lose so much blood or cause her to be in a coma."

Phoebe says, very puzzled, "I don't understand why Piper didn't use her power and freeze whoever or whatever it was that did this to her."

Prue thinks for a second and says, "The doctor asked a question that may be the solution to yours. Is it possible that someone put something in Piper's drink?"

"I don't know. Although, Brantley did get her a drink after they danced. And it wasn't too long before she wasn't feeling well. Do you think that's it?"

"I don't know, Pheebs. To tell you the honest truth, I'm too tired to think. We can't visit Piper until 10:00. Let's get a couple of hours sleep and then try to come up with answers."

"You go on up, Prue. I think I'll look in the Book of Shadows to see if I can find anything."

"What are you going to look for?"

Phoebe sighs and says, "I don't know. Anything. I can't just sit here and do nothing. This is all my fault!"

"No, Pheebs. It's not. If this is caused by warlocks or demons they would have found a way to get to us anyway."

"You're right, Prue. Thanks." Phoebe leans over and hugs Prue and then heads up to the attic while Prue goes to her room.

* * *

After a couple of hours of sleep and a shower, Prue feels almost human when she walks up to the attic. "Find anything, Pheebs?"

Disgustedly, Phoebe responds, "No! I swear one of these days I'm going to go through this book and create a table of contents!" After a few moments of hesitation she says, "What are we going to do, Prue? I can't find anything that will help Piper."

Prue sighs and says, "Maybe it's not supernatural. Maybe there's a perfectly reasonable explanation for what happened."

"I don't think so, Prue. I just have this feeling. Call me crazy if you want but something evil is after us again. And, right now, we don't have the power of three for protection."

Finishing Phoebe's train of thought Prue says, "Which leaves us vulnerable. Especially Piper." Looking at her watch, Prue continues, "It's just about time to leave for the hospital. Are you ready?"

"Just give me a couple of minutes to change and I'll be right down."

* * *

Phoebe and Prue arrive at the hospital and walk into Piper's room. Piper is lying on the hospital bed with IV lines going into her. Crossing over to the bed Phoebe says, "Oh God, look at her!"

Moving to the other side of the bed Prue responds, "I know, Pheebs."

With tears in her eyes, Phoebe says, "We have got to do something, Prue! I can't stand to see her like this."

Prue looks up at Phoebe, "For now all we can do is let her know that we are here for her."

Phoebe nods her head and says, "Hey, Piper. It's Phoebe. We are going to find out what happened to you and fix it. I promise!" Her voice breaking she finishes, "Just don't give up. Come back to us!"

A couple of minutes pass and Dr. Grant walks in. Addressing Prue he says, "Hello, Ms. Halliwell."

"Hi, Dr. Grant. Did you find out what's causing Piper to be in a coma?" Phoebe walks over next to Prue. "This is my sister, Phoebe."

"Ah yes, the missing sister."

Looking guilty Phoebe says, "Nice to meet you."

Dr. Grant continues, "Piper is stable and we've given her several units of blood throughout the night which has brought her blood count back up. The good news is that she is stable enough to be moved down to a regular room."

"And the bad news?" Phoebe asks.

Dr. Grant sighs heavily and says, "She's still in a coma and hasn't shown any signs of coming out of it. Some of the lab reports have come back. Her blood alcohol level was only .005 and, so far, there are no signs of any other drugs in her system."

"So you still don't know why she is in a coma?" Prue asks.

"Actually, I was hoping that your sister might be able to give us some clues." he said indicating Phoebe. Phoebe quickly fills him in on the details of the previous night. Frowning, Dr. Grant says, "Well, I'm still puzzled. From what you've told me, I don't see anything obvious that would cause it. However, the fact that she wasn't feeling well is suspicious. I've scheduled her for some additional tests this morning. With any luck, they might be able to tell us why. I'll let you know as soon as I find out anything."

"Thanks." Prue says as he walks out.

Phoebe looks at Prue and says, "You and I both know that these tests won't show anything."

"I know. And we can't leave Piper by herself. In this condition she would be easy prey for any evil being." Pacing, she continues, "Listen, you stay with Piper and I'll go home and look in the Book of Shadows again. There has got to be something in there that will tell us what is going on."

"Okay. But be careful, Prue. Whoever this is will be coming after us too."

"I know. You be careful too. Don't take any chances. Call me if anything comes up." Phoebe nods her head and walks over next to Piper.

As Prue leaves the room, she unknowingly passes Brantley who has been listening in on their conversation. Brantley smiles to himself thinking that Phoebe and Piper will be easier to get to once Piper is transferred to a regular room. He turns and casually walks down the corridor.

* * *

While they are transferring Piper to a regular room, Phoebe goes down to the cafeteria to get a cup of coffee. She hears her name. "Phoebe? Funny running into you here of all places." Turning around she sees Brantley.

"Brantley! Oh my God. I am so glad that I ran into you. We need to talk." Getting coffee they make their way to a table.

"So, what's up?" Brantley asks.

"What happened last night after you and Piper left the club?"

"I put Piper in a cab and made sure the driver knew her address. Then I went home. Why?"

"Piper was hurt last night and we don't know how. Did anything happen after you put her in the cab?"

"What? No. Nothing I am aware of. She was just fine when I last saw her."

Phoebe looks at him suspiciously and says, "By the way, why are you here? At the hospital I mean."

Looking a little annoyed, he says, "I am visiting a friend who had surgery yesterday. Wait a minute. You don't think I had anything to do with this, do you? Look, Piper was okay when the cab pulled out last night. I didn't have anything to do with hurting her. Ask her. She'll tell you."

Phoebe sighs and says, "I wish I could. She's in a coma and hasn't been able to tell us anything."

Secretly feeling very relieved that Piper is still under his spell, Brantley says, "What room is she in? I would like to see her."

"They're transferring her to 312 now. It will be a while before she's settled in. Look, the police are investigating and will probably want to talk with you."

"Sure," Brantley says, "anytime. Although, I don't think that I can give them any information that will help." Hesitating, he continues, "Has anyone been back to Double Entendre? That may be a place to start. Maybe somebody saw something that will help. What about the guy in the band? Weren't you talking with him?"

"Tate." Phoebe says, deep in thought. "Yeah, that's a good idea. Maybe I'll go there and see if I can find out anything."

"Phoebe, I need to get back to my friend. I'll stop by and see Piper later. If I can do anything to help just let me know." he says as he gives her a card with his phone number on it.

"Don't forget to talk to the police. And thanks. I appreciate your help. I'll call you if anything comes up." Phoebe replies smiling at him as he leaves.

* * *

Phoebe walks up to Piper's new room. Settling in a chair next to the bed she holds Piper's hand. "I just saw that guy you met last night. Brantley." As she is finishing her sentence a nurse walks into the room.

"Hi. My name is..." the nurse stops mid-sentence. Phoebe looks up at her just as she continues "...Myra. I'll be Piper's nurse until 3:00."

Phoebe looks in amazement at Piper wondering if it was possible that Piper could have frozen the nurse for a second. "Oh... hello. I'm Piper's sister, Phoebe."

"It's nice to meet you. I'll be taking very good care of Piper today. She's scheduled for some tests and will probably be in and out of here several times this morning. If you have any questions or if you need anything just let me know."

Distracted, Phoebe replies, "Thanks." As the nurse leaves, Phoebe turns back to Piper and says, "Did you do that? Did you freeze her? Piper if you can hear me squeeze my hand." But nothing happens. Piper doesn't move and still seems to be in the coma.

Reaching for the phone, Phoebe call Prue at the manor. "Hey, Prue. It's Pheebs. Did you find anything?"

"Actually, I think so. How's Piper?"

"She still seems the same." Hesitating, Phoebe continues, "Something weird just happened. I know you're not going to believe me but I think that Piper just froze the nurse."

"What do you mean? Is she out of the coma?"

"No... it was only for a brief second and I can't be sure but I would swear that the nurse was frozen."

Prue thinks about it and asks, "Did her hands move?"

"No."

Sighing, Prue replies, "Well, we know that our powers are growing. And they say that a person in a coma can hear what is going on. Maybe it's Piper's way of letting us know that she is okay."

Still not convinced that's the reason, Phoebe says, "Maybe. I ran into Brantley, Prue. He was here visiting a friend. He didn't know any more than we do really. He says that he made sure Piper was in the cab and that he left to go home."

"Really?" Prue responds, "Did you tell him to call the police?"

"Yes. What did you find in the Book of Shadows?"

"I may have found the solution to what is going on. There is a section in the book about warlocks stealing powers by putting witches on trial using the witch's blood. I'm getting ready to leave soon and I will explain it all when I get there."

"Okay, be careful." Phoebe says and hangs up the phone.

* * *

While Phoebe is talking to Prue, Brantley is on the phone with Tate. "I 'accidentally' ran into Phoebe. So far, Piper is still under my spell."

"She didn't suspect anything, did she?" Tate asks.

"No. I have her convinced that I know nothing about what happened. I even told her that I would call the cops and tell them my story."

"What did you tell her was the reason that you were at the hospital?"

"I told her that I was visiting a friend. In the meantime, I found out what room they moved Piper to and I even made the suggestion that Phoebe go see you at the club."

"Are you sure she didn't suspect anything? I mean don't give her too much to think about. These witches are clever and very formidable when they are at their full strength." Tate says very concerned.

"You sound like an old woman! Quit worrying. I know what I am doing."

Responding to Brantley's derisive comments, Tate says, "Many other warlocks have thought the same thing and failed. You know what the master does to warlocks who fail!"

"Tate, we won't fail. They don't suspect a thing. I am getting ready to go up to Piper's room and convince Phoebe to go to the club. When she leaves I will be alone with Piper and can take care of her then. You just make sure that when Phoebe shows up at the club you take care of her. No more mistakes like last night. I mean it, Tate. If you had taken care of her then, this would be over by now and we would have their powers."

"I won't let her get away this time. What's the plan after we get Phoebe's blood? How do we get Prue's?"

"You just let me take care of that." Brantley says and hangs up. Thinking to himself that he would have to get rid of Tate once they had all three of the sister's powers, Brantley gets into an elevator and punches the button for the third floor.

* * *

"Knock, knock." Brantley says, entering Piper's room.

Phoebe looks up, smiles, and says, "Hey, Brantley."

"How's she doing?" he asks.

"The same. No change." Phoebe tells him.

"That's too bad. She looks so pale."

"Yeah. The nurses said it was from the loss of blood. They're going to run some more tests in a little while. Maybe they will tell us what is going on with her." Phoebe says somewhat forlornly.

"Have you given any more thought to going to Double Entendre, Phoebe?"

"I think it's a good idea but I don't want to leave Piper here by herself."

"I'll be glad to sit with Piper while you're gone."

"Are you sure? It wouldn't be a problem for you?" Phoebe asks.

"Not at..." Brantley freezes. As does an orderly just walking into the room.

Phoebe quickly glances over at Piper and says, "I knew it! You froze that nurse earlier too. What are you trying to tell me, Piper?"

Just then Brantley finishes his sentence, "...all."

The orderly strides in toward Piper and says, "It's time for Ms. Halliwell to go down for a CAT scan."

Phoebe asks, "How long will it take?"

"Generally an hour, two if they're backed up." he replies.

"Okay. Great." Looking at Brantley she says, "That should give me time to go to Double Entendre and ask around. I should be back before she's done. If I'm not my other sister will be here. But thanks for your offer to stay."

"Your welcome." Brantley replies. "I guess I'll go. There are a few things I have to take care of before I come back to visit my friend this evening. I'll try to stop back in and check on Piper then."

"Okay. See you then." Phoebe says as Brantley leaves the room. Brantley hurriedly walks down the corridor with an angry look on his face.

* * *

Phoebe leaves a note for Prue explaining where she has gone. Arriving at Double Entendre, Phoebe hears the band practicing. As she enters the club a man walks up to her and says, "I'm sorry, Miss. We're not open yet." Phoebe explains why she is there and asks the guy if he had seen anything last night. "I wasn't working yesterday. It was my day off. But, more than likely, no one would have seen anything. It's crazy in here when we get busy."

Phoebe replies, "Thanks anyway. Do you mind if I talk to Tate? I met him last night."

"Sure. No problem. He's right over there." he says indicating the stage. Phoebe walks over and waves at Tate.

The band finishes the song and Tate, setting his guitar down, says, "Okay that was good. Everybody take 10." Walking over to Phoebe he says, "Hey. What brings you here at this time of the day?"

"Well, I need to ask you some questions if that's okay?"

"Sure, what about?"

"Do you remember my sister, Piper? She was in here with me last night."

"Yeah, I remember."

"She was hurt last night and I was wondering if you had seen or maybe heard anything out of the ordinary?"

"No. What happened?"

Phoebe responds with disappointment in her voice, "We don't know. I was hoping someone here had seen something. The last we know for sure is that she was in a cab on the way home. The next thing we know she's in the hospital in a coma."

"Wow! I'm sorry. Hang on a minute and I'll go into the back and ask around. Maybe one of the other guys knows something. Stay here. I'll be right back."

"That'd be great!" Phoebe replies and walks over to sit on the edge of the stage. Tate walks out of the room. Unable to sit still, Phoebe starts pacing and accidentally brushes the table where she and Piper were sitting. When she does this a premonition occurs. She sees two warlocks standing over Piper's hospital bed. Just as her premonition is ending, Tate walks back into the room.

"I'm sorry, Phoebe. Nobody saw anything unusual." He quickly starts toward the bar and says, "Let me get us something to drink and we can discuss what to do next."

Phoebe, looking distressed, says, "No thanks. I have to go." She hurries toward the exit.

"Phoebe, wait! What happened? Let me help!" Tate says with a hint of desperation.

"Thanks. I appreciate your help." Phoebe says as Tate watches her disappear out the door.

He slams his fist down on the bar. "This is just great! Brantley is going to have a stroke." he mumbles to himself.

* * *

Phoebe gets into the jeep and, using Piper's cell phone, calls Prue. "Hello. Prue? Is Piper okay?"

"Hi, Pheebs. Yes. They just brought her back up from x-ray. What's up?"

Sighing in relief, Phoebe says, "I just had a premonition, Prue. Whatever you do, don't leave Piper alone. There were two warlocks standing over her and I don't think they meant to help her."

"Okay. Did you see their faces?"

"No, I couldn't."

"Where are you?"

"I'm on my way to the hospital now. Prue, we need to figure out how to vanquish these warlocks. Piper is way too easy a target for them."

"I know. First we have to figure out who they are."

"Did the Book of Shadows have any info?"

"Yeah, Pheebs. However, there is a catch. Be careful but get here as soon as you can. We can discuss it then."

"Alright. I'll be there in a few. Bye."

* * *

Phoebe arrives at the hospital and rushes to Piper's room. She sees Prue, with a deep look of concentration on her face, sitting in a chair next to Piper's bed. "Prue? What's the matter? Is Piper okay?"

"Yeah. She's the same." Prue responds very distractedly. "Something strange happened a few minutes ago and I was trying to figure out what it could mean."

"Piper froze time, didn't she?" Phoebe asks.

"Yes. That guy, Brantley, had just walked in. It didn't last very long and I didn't see her hands move but I'm sure that's what happened."

"She did it twice while I was here earlier... and you know what? I was talking about Brantley the first time and he was in the room the second time." Phoebe said with growing excitement in her voice.

"And he seemed very disappointed to find me in here with Piper this afternoon." Pacing around the room Prue continues, "Okay. Is it possible that Piper is trying to tell us that it was Brantley who did this to her? This morning you said that he had gotten them drinks right before Piper started feeling ill."

"Prue, I would bet that he put something in it. Or maybe cast a spell over her wine. He has got to be one of the warlocks I saw in my vision. Did he say if he was coming back?"

"He said that he would try to check on Piper later."

"Well, we can't let him be alone with her under any circumstance. However, there were two warlocks in my vision. We still need to figure out who the second one is. What did the Book of Shadows say? You mentioned something about a trial by blood."

"Yeah. I found a section in there about an incantation that warlocks can use to steal a witch's power. The warlocks first have to obtain the witch's blood before saying the spell."

"I don't get it. We know that they bled Piper, but she still has her power. Plus, why didn't they just kill her? Why leave her alive, where she'll be found?"

"Well, apparently, the witch has to be alive when the spell is cast. And, because of the power of three, they have to get blood from all three of us before they say the incantation or it won't have any effect. I think that the second warlock must have been at the club last night and was supposed to get your blood as well as Piper's. Then I think they would have tried to get mine while I was asleep. That way they would have had our powers by now."

"But, somehow, I got away from the warlock." Phoebe says, thinking. "It must be because I hooked up with Brent." Looking at Prue, she continues, "Did the Book say how we could vanquish them?"

Sighing heavily, Prue says, "Yes, there is a spell. But this is where the catch is. We have to get some of Piper's blood back before the spell is said."

"There's something else, isn't there, Prue?"

Worriedly, Prue responds, "I'm just not sure that the spell will work unless all three of us say it. And since Piper is still in the coma..."

"She can't." Phoebe finishes. "The power of three thing. I understand. First things first though, how are we going to get Piper's blood?"

"I've been thinking about that. I know you've been working on summoning your power at will, Pheebs. Maybe you can give it a try."

"Okay, but I'll need something that's Brantley's or something he's touched." Glancing around Phoebe spots her purse and says, "Wait a minute... when we had coffee today Brantley gave me his card. I'll try that." Holding the card, Phoebe takes a deep, cleansing breath. But nothing happens. "Nothing, Prue!" Phoebe says in a near panic. "What are we going to do?"

Walking over, Prue touches Phoebe's arm and says, "It's okay, Pheebs. We'll think of something." When she touches her arm, Phoebe has a premonition of Prue entering an abandoned warehouse.

"What did you see?" Prue asks.

"I saw you going into an abandoned warehouse on Market Street. I also saw the other warlock, Prue. It's Tate. Tate Duncan, the guy from the band that I was talking to last night. You're right. He was probably supposed to do the same thing to me that Brantley did to Piper."

"Okay. I'll go over there and get the blood. You stay here with Piper."

"What if Brantley shows up?" Phoebe asks.

"He doesn't know that we're onto him. If he comes in, act normal. Just don't leave him alone with Piper." Prue says as she prepares to leave.

"Alright. Prue, be careful. Tate is going to be in the warehouse when you get there."

"It's okay." Prue responds with a determined look in her eyes. "I'll take care of him. I'll be back as soon as I can."

Phoebe nods and says, "I love you."

Walking out the door Prue answers, "Love you, too."

* * *

Phoebe walks back over to the bed and starts talking to Piper, "We're going to fix this, Piper. But we need your help. We need you to say the spell with us. Come back to us. Fight whatever it is that Brantley did to you." Leaning over she holds Piper's hand, "I'm so sorry, Piper. This is all my fault! I love you so much. Please wake up!" Phoebe pleads with tears in her eyes. After a few minutes she hears someone knock on the door. She looks up and sees Brantley entering the room.

"Hello, Phoebe. Any changes?"

Trying to act normally, but getting angrier by the second, Phoebe responds, "No. She's the same."

"That's too bad." he replies. "I was hoping that she would be awake by now. Still no clue as to what happened to her?"

"No." Phoebe says trying not to let him know how angry she is. "Nothing new."

"I met your other sister earlier. What was her name? Prue?"

"Yes." Phoebe responds, gritting her teeth.

"She seemed very nice. Is there anything I can do for you?"

"No. We're okay." Phoebe says thinking that he had already done way too much.

"Have you eaten yet? I could sit with her while you grab something." Brantley offers.

"No!" Phoebe says a little too emphatically. Noticing how Brantley is looking at her, she tries to cover her mistake saying, "Sorry. Thanks for your offer. But I really don't want to leave her. Besides, I ate earlier."

"Okay. No problem." Brantley says, smiling at Phoebe. "I probably need to get back to my friend anyway."

"Alright." Phoebe says.

"See you later." Brantley says, walking out.

"Much!" Phoebe responds. Looking over at Piper she says, "Whew! That was close. I almost blew it. I have got to learn to control my temper!"

* * *

Prue arrives at the warehouse and, taking a deep breath, enters through a side door. Trying to be as quiet as possible, she slips into what looks like the main storage room. She sees a man sitting at a desk mumbling to himself. "That must be the other warlock, Tate Duncan." she thinks. "And there's a jar with blood in it sitting on the desk in front of him."

At that moment Tate hears something, and turning around spots Prue. "Hey!" Tate exclaims. "What are you doing here?"

"Saving my sister!" Prue yells. Using her power, she slams him into a wall with all the pent up fury she feels because of Piper. Tate does not get up. Walking over to the desk, Prue picks up the jar and examines it. It is marked with Piper's name. "This is it." she says and hurriedly exits the building.

* * *

Prue arrives back at the hospital and rushes to Piper's room. As she enters, Phoebe looks up and says with relief in her voice, "Oh, good. You're safe! I was worried."

"I'm okay." Prue responds. "And I have the blood."

"What about Tate?" Phoebe asks.

With a big grin on her face, Prue says, "Let's just say that he is going to be very sore when he wakes up."

"That's great! I just wish that I could have been there to drop kick his ass for Piper."

"Speaking of Piper, how is she?" Prue asks.

"The same, I think." Phoebe sighs looking at Piper. "What do we do next?"

"Well, since Piper is out, we'll just have to try the spell without her and hope that it works. Here's the plan...

* * *

Meanwhile, as the sisters are discussing what they are going to do, Tate arrives at the hospital and meets Brantley in a storage closet. "Look at you!" Brantley bellows. "You are a disgrace! What happened?"

Looking very dishelved and walking with a definite limp, Tate responds, "Keep your voice down! Like I told you on the phone, Prue came in and knocked me out."

With an angry sigh, Brantley says, "Not much of a warlock are you? You can't handle this assignment. I don't know why the master burdened me with you!"

"Obviously, you couldn't handle it by yourself. You're not powerful enough. Besides I told you these witches were clever." Tate responds with a sneer.

"Shut up! Just shut up! We have bigger problems to figure out. They know about us. We need to figure out how to defeat them."

"Were you able to strengthen your spell on Piper?"

"No!" Brantley responds frustrated. "They haven't left her alone all day."

"What! Is she awake?" Tate asks.

"No. Not yet. But my spell won't last much longer." Brantley says running his hand through his hair.

"If she wakes up they will have the power of three. And I don't think we'll be able to defeat them." Tate says with more than a hint of desperation in his voice.

Looking at Tate with an intense gleam in his eye, Brantley says, "Let's make sure that doesn't happen. Come on."

"Where are we going?" Tate asks.

"To take care of this problem right now. Just follow my lead." Brantley responds. They walk into an elevator and Brantley pushes the button for the third floor.

* * *

Getting off the elevator, they walk to Piper's room. The room is dark and glancing in Brantley only sees Piper. "What's going on? Nobody's in there but Piper." he says.

Looking around nervously, Tate says, "I don't like this. Something's up."

"Come on. This is our big chance." Brantley says scornfully. "Stop acting like a pansy! I'll take care of Piper and then we'll wait for Prue and Phoebe to show up."

Unknown to them, Prue and Phoebe are waiting in the bathroom. The two warlocks go to Piper's bed as Prue and Phoebe sneak up on them from behind. Prue uses her power to slam Tate against the wall while Phoebe drop kicks Brantley and exclaims, "This is for Piper!"

Prue and Phoebe hurry to each side of Piper's bed. Prue takes the jar of blood and douses each one of the warlocks with it. Holding Piper's hands they begin the spell:

Trial by blood,
Be no more,
Save our good acts,
Forevermore,
Banish these warlocks,
Back to hell's core!

The warlocks get up and start towards them. Brantley says, "You stupid witches! It won't work unless all three of you cast the spell. So, I guess it's our good fortune that Piper is still..." he freezes mid-sentence. Tate is also frozen. The sisters look at Piper.

Piper looks at them and says, "I guess his spell wore off."

"Piper!" Phoebe exclaims. "How are you?"

"Fine. Well, actually, I feel like I've been run over by a truck! We need to hurry. I'm not sure how long they will stay frozen." Piper responds weakly.

"Do you know the words to the spell?" Prue asks.

"Yeah. I heard you guys planning earlier and memorized them then. I was hoping to come out from under the spell in time to help." Piper smiles at them.

"Okay. Let's do it!" Prue says. All three chant in unison:

Trial by blood,
Be no more,
Save our good acts,
Forevermore,
Banish these warlocks,
Back to hell's core!

As they finish, the warlocks start to implode. Tate looks at Brantley and says, "I told you we couldn't win against them!"

As both of them disappear, Brantley responds, "Just shut up!"

"Whew!" Prue says with relief in her voice. "Wasn't that fun?" Piper and Phoebe give her nasty looks as several hospital personnel burst into the room.

"What's going on in here?" a nurse asks.

Glancing at her sisters, Prue says, "Piper woke up. Guess we were a little excited. Sorry."

"She's out of the coma? I need to get in touch with Dr. Grant. He'll want to examine her. Why don't you guys wait outside until we're done?" the nurse says as she starts taking Piper's blood pressure.

"Okay, let us know when you're done." Prue says as she and Phoebe leave the room.

* * *

A little over an hour later, Phoebe and Prue walk back into the room. Phoebe says, "How ya doing, sweetie?"

"I'm exhausted," Piper smiles at her, "and they gave me something for the pain so I'm a little bit high."

Laughing, Phoebe says, "Wish it were me!"

Suddenly very serious, Piper responds, "It very nearly was you, Pheebs. Brantley told me what he and Tate were doing. The spell he put on me kind of paralyzed me, but I could still hear and feel everything that was going on."

"That's why you used your power when his name was mentioned and when he walked into the room." Prue said.

"Yeah. But at first it only lasted a split second. Then a little bit longer. I guess his spell was wearing off." Piper says shrugging her shoulders.

Prue looks thoughtful and asks, "How were you able to freeze time? We never saw your hands move."

"I don't know, Prue. I just concentrated hard and imagined that I was using my power. I wasn't even sure that it worked. It was draining and I must have passed out afterwards because when I came to I could tell that time had passed."

"Well, I'm just glad you're okay." Prue says, stroking Piper's hair. "I don't know what I would do if anything happened to you."

"Me too, sweetie I love you." Phoebe chimes in.

"I love you guys, too. Oh, and Pheebs," Piper begins, "it wasn't your fault. Brantley and Tate had been planning this for a while. They manipulated us into going to that club by using some kind of suggestion spell on you. That's how they got you to talk me into going. Brantley bragged about it while he was draining my blood." Yawning, she continues, "Just do me one favor though."

"Sure. Anything!" Phoebe exclaims.

"Stay out of my love life! Don't try fixing me up with any more guys, okay?"

Laughing, Phoebe says, "Okay... okay. But you know what, Piper?"

"What?" Piper asks sleepily.

"I heard about a new club. I was thinking that when you're feeling up to it we could check it out."

Prue and Piper look at her in astonishment.

"Kidding. Just kidding. It was a joke!" Phoebe says laughing.

Trying not to laugh, Piper says, "Stop, Phoebe. Don't make me laugh. It hurts!"

Shaking her head in amusement, Prue says, "Try to get some rest, Piper."

"Alright." Piper mumbles already drifting off.