This is a really unusual episode, mostly because there is absolutely no demon to fight in it. Actually, it is all about magic is powerless against real-life problems, which cannot be spelled away. This is an ongoing tenet of the show, actually. As a result, and because a lot of the episode takes place in hospital, its mood is rather more gloomy than usual. Phoebe's and Prue's fear and despair are pretty tangible.
Yet magic is still quite present. First, because the Charmed Ones are too stubborn not to try everything, even though it is clear that their Awakening spell is bound to backfire -symbolically enough, threatening the same boy Phoebe had saved earlier on. And then, because Leo is still (quite literally) waiting in the wings. The scene when he breaks a core rule to heal a dying Piper is really touching and beautiful, and I love that she recognises him before we can even see his face. While I empathise with poor, lovely Dan, I do not think he has any chance against a determined, human Leo. (On a side note, how could the Elders not think of that slight loophole!)
Finally, another thing that makes this episode interesting is how crucial it is for the characters on the long run. There is nothing to keep Piper and Leo apart anymore; Prue takes a life-altering decision (although this is hardly fair for Jack). And though this is only mentioned briefly, Phoebe's enrollment at university will be very meaningful for her development. Finally, the sisters' rather careless use of magic at the hospital will have dire long-term consequences, as the doctor will not forget it so easily.
Yet magic is still quite present. First, because the Charmed Ones are too stubborn not to try everything, even though it is clear that their Awakening spell is bound to backfire -symbolically enough, threatening the same boy Phoebe had saved earlier on. And then, because Leo is still (quite literally) waiting in the wings. The scene when he breaks a core rule to heal a dying Piper is really touching and beautiful, and I love that she recognises him before we can even see his face. While I empathise with poor, lovely Dan, I do not think he has any chance against a determined, human Leo. (On a side note, how could the Elders not think of that slight loophole!)
Finally, another thing that makes this episode interesting is how crucial it is for the characters on the long run. There is nothing to keep Piper and Leo apart anymore; Prue takes a life-altering decision (although this is hardly fair for Jack). And though this is only mentioned briefly, Phoebe's enrollment at university will be very meaningful for her development. Finally, the sisters' rather careless use of magic at the hospital will have dire long-term consequences, as the doctor will not forget it so easily.