Crvm,
Flight detent just gave the right answer to your question.
Although all other answers and suggestions would solve the problem, I reckon your main conflict is the FMC annunciation of an ALT HOLD (What you rightly describe as 'limbo VNAV)
Yes, don't be afraid, press the ALT HOLD button again, even though it is already annunciated,and all will be revealed.
Safe flying,
uneasy
