Chapter 1: "Fuck" part 1
Summary:
Don't You Forget About Me.
Notes:
Please note that this work is currently under construction.
Chapter Text
SUPERNATURAL
"Fuck"
TEASER
THE ROAD SO FAR
Clip from 12.06, Celebrating The Life of Asa Fox
SAM
Did you know people tell stories about us?
DEAN
Yeah. Apparently, we're a little bit legendary.
( Search and Destroy by The Stooges plays)
♪ And I'm the world's forgotten boy ♪
From 1.01 pilot JOHN gives baby SAM to DEAN.
JOHN
Take your brother outside as fast as you can! Now, Dean, go!
DEAN runs downstairs with SAM watching the fire spread throughout his family home.
♪ The one who's searching, searching to destroy ♪
Voiceover From 1.01 pilot
DEAN
Dad's on a hunting trip. And he hasn't been home in a few days.
DEAN from 2.21 All Hell Breaks Loose: Part One running towards SAM as SAM is stabbed in the back DEAN pulls his hand off SAM’S back and the shot changes---
♪ And honey, I'm the world's forgotten boy ♪
Voiceover from 1.02 Wendigo
DEAN
I think he wants us to pick up where he left off. You know, saving people---
---SAM’S bloody hand lifting away from DEANS back from 15.20 Carry On.
♪ The one who's searching only to destroy ♪
Voiceover from 1.02 Wendigo continued.
DEAN
---hunting things; The family business.
♪ ♪ ♪ Instrumental ♪ ♪ ♪
From 2.01 In My Time of Dying SAM Dropping his coffee, runs to JOHN's side, kneeling over him and screaming for help.
From 1.18 Something Wicked YOUNG DEAN reaches for the rifle by the door, hesitates, terrified.
From 2.22 All Hell Breaks Loose: Part Two DEAN shoots the YELLOW EYED DEMON in the heart.
From 3.08 A Very Supernatural Christmas YOUNG SAM lies down on the bed and cries quietly. Voiceover from 3.10 Dream a Little Dream of Me
DREAM DEAN
Dad knew who you really were. A good soldier and nothing else. Daddy's blunt little instrument. Your own father didn't care whether you lived or died. Why should you?
From 3.16 No Rest for the Wicked Hell hound rips DEAN on his back and his shoulder. He flips over, and it slashes him over his chest, blood gushing out. SAM just watches in horror.
From 4.01 Lazarus Rising A makeshift GRAVE, middle of nowhere. Two planks nailed into a cross, staked into the ground. Grass has just begun to regrow over the dirt grave bed. DEAN claws and fights his way out of the ground. As his face clears, he sucks in oxygen. Drags himself out with great effort-- he's already weak, and it's tough going. Finally out, he collapses onto his back. Catching breath.
Then OVERHEAD LIGHTS EXPLODE! Raining SPARKS over DEAN, BOBBY, the whole room. They shield themselves. Then they see-- AT THE FAR END OF THE ROOM. The ENTRANCE. SWINGS OPEN by itself. Slow. Revealing-- a MAN. CASTIEL. He heads in, walking through a curtain of FALLING SPARKS. It's a hell of an entrance.
♪ Look out, honey, 'cause I'm using technology ♪
From 4.16 On the Head of a Pin DEAN is in a hospital bed, heavily bandaged with an IV drip he begins to cry.
Voiceover from 4.18 The Monster at the End of This Book .
CHUCK
Well, there's only one explanation. Obviously, I'm a god. A cruel, cruel, capricious god. The things I put you through – The physical beatings alone. All for what? All for the sake of literary symmetry. I toyed with your lives, your emotions, for... entertainment.
I am so sorry. I mean, horror is one thing, but to be forced to live bad writing...
From 4.19 Jump the Shark DEAN opens a coffin. This one has the corpse of ADAM MILLIGAN. DEAN puts a hand to his mouth; there's quite a lot of blood.
♪ Ain't got time to make no apology ♪
From 4.20 The Rapture SAM cuts the neck of a DEMON and drinks her blood. He turns, mouth still bloody, DEAN flinches, watching him in horror.
Voiceover from 4.22 Lucifer Rising
CHUCK
You guys aren't supposed to be there. You're not in this story.
CASTIEL
Yeah, well… We're making it up as we go.
From 5.10 Abandon All Hope… ELLEN looks back at JO, who's stopped moving. ELLEN kisses JO on the head.
♪ Soul radiation in the dead of night ♪
From 5.16 Dark Side of the Moon The TV behind DEAN flares to life, showing a grainy black and white image of CASTIEL.
♪ Love in the middle of a firefight ♪
From 5.18 Point of No Return in the ANGEL GREEN ROOM DEAN winks at SAM. The green room’s door slams shut behind SAM and DEAN, leaving ADAM locked inside.
♪ Honey, gotta strike me blind ♪
From 5.22 Swan Song CHUCK sits behind a computer keyboard. A full glass a near-empty bottle of cheap whiskey beside him.
♪ Somebody gotta save my soul ♪
Voiceover From 5.22 Swan Song.
LUCIFER/SAM
No one makes Dad do anything. He is doing this to us.
From 5.22 Swan Song SAM looks at DEAN, closes his eyes and spreads his arms. MICHAEL/ADAM lunges forward and grabs SAM's jacket. SAM grabs MICHAEL/ADAM's arm and they fall together into the hole. After a few moments, the hole closes in a blinding flash of light. The Horsemen's rings burn bright in the grass on the ground where the hole was.
♪ Baby, penetrate my mind ♪
From 5.22 Swan Song, A streetlight burns out. We see someone standing beneath it, watching. It is SAM.
From 6.01 Exile on Main St . DEAN hugs SAM.
♪ And I'm the world's forgotten boy ♪
From 7.01 Meet the New Boss SAM sees a vision of himself burning in hell; he then falls to the ground and cuts his hand on some broken glass.
From 7.10 Death's Door BOBBY’s head falls back onto the pillow and his eyes close. The monitor he is attached to starts to beep.
♪ The one who's searching, searching to destroy ♪
From 7.17 The Born-Again Identity SAM is being wheeled down a hallway on a hospital bed by the orderly CASTIEL puts a hand on SAM’s head. SAM groans in pain and his face and eyes glow red. The red travels up CASTIEL’s arm and face and his eyes turn red. SAM groans and gasps for breath.
♪ And honey, I'm the world's forgotten boy ♪
From 8.01 We Need to Talk About Kevin DEAN holds out his arms and he and SAM hug.
From 8.13 Everybody Hates Hitler DEAN opens a box and takes out the key to the bunker.
♪ The one who's searching, searching to destroy ♪
From 8.14 Trial and Error, SAM drops the paper with the Enochian symbols. The veins in SAM's right hand and arm are highlighted with bright white light. He's grimacing in pain.
From 8.19 Taxi Driver SAM grabs his right hand, falls to his knees in agony. His hand looks like it's burning on the inside, he makes a fist as the burning light fades.
From 8.23 Sacrifice DEAN wraps a bandanna around SAM’S cut.
♪ Forgotten boy ♪
From 9.09 Holy Terror DEAN sees a white light flooding out of KEVIN through his eyes.
From 9.11 First Born CAIN grasps DEAN's right forearm with his and a line of red veins spread from CAIN's mark to burn an identical mark on DEAN's forearm. DEAN gasps in pain as the mark is transferred from CAIN's arm METATRON buries an angel blade deep into DEAN's chest with both hands.
From 9.23 Do You Believe in Miracles? DEAN gasps horribly as the sound of his blood pouring out of his body reverberates in the open warehouse... he opens his eyes, they are BLACK.
♪ Forgotten boy ♪
From 10.03 Soul Survivor DEAN groans as Sam empties a syringe of blood into his arm.
From 10.14 The Executioner's Song DEAN collapses onto SAM, who holds him up, DEAN looks devastated.
From 10.21 Dark Dynasty Sam and Dean pull up to the motel. They run into the hotel room and find Charlie in the bathroom, dead in the tub.
From 10.23 Brother's Keeper DEAN rears back to swing the scythe, SAM slams his eyes shut. DEAN swings the scythe, misses SAM and stabs DEATH in the chest.
♪ Forgotten boy ♪
From 11.20 Don't Call Me Shurley DEAN notices that something is glowing in SAM'S jacket pocket. He takes it out and SAM notices that the item glowing in his pocket is DEAN'S AMULET. DEAN and SAM stare at it and each other.
From 11.23 Alpha and Omega DEAN comes to a clearing. MARY is standing there in her white nightgown.
♪ Said, hey, forgotten boy, said ♪
From 13.01 Lost and Found DEAN comes in, gun drawn behind SAM. He sees JACK, and immediately fires at him.
From 14.08 Byzantium montage of CAS, DEAN, and SAM sitting around the kitchen table, drinking and eating nougat candy. Dean pulls JACK into a hug.
♪ Hey, hey, hey, hey ♪
Clip from 14.20 Moriah
CHUCK
This isn't how the story is supposed to end.
CAS
The story?
DEAN
Wait. What are you saying?
SAM
He's saying he's been playing us. This whole time. Our entire lives. Mom, Dad -- everything. This is all you because you wrote it all, right? Because -- Because what? Because we're your favorite show? Because we're part of your story? And every other bad thing we've been killing, been dying over -- (scoffs) where were you? Just sitting back and watching us suffer so we can do this over and over and over again -- fighting, losing people we love? When does it end?
DEAN
No, we're done talking. 'Cause this -- this isn't just a story. It's our lives!
From 15.18 Despair DEAN turns to see black goo from The Empty squeezing through the bricks in the bunker's wall as a portal begins to open---
END OF TEASER
ACT ONE
EXT. HEAVEN - DAY
Dean sits on the front seat of the Impala, the front door open, his legs outside the vehicle and his feet resting on heaven's almost fluorescent green, lush grass. He's surrounded by open fields of endless manicured grass, stretching out as far as the eye an possibly perceive. Beyond an occasional smattering of fences and the odd gravel road, not a single other thing can be seen. The sky is cloudless and a perfect bright blue hue. There are no shrubs, no bugs, not a single tree. Dean stares directly at THE CAMERA and nods his head upwards in a gesture of acknowledgement.
Dean
Oh, Hey.
I, sure as hell, am glad to see you.
Been a hot minute since I’ve seen anyone 'round these parts.
He raises his eyebrows expectedly for a moment, his eyes still trained directly down the lens. He scratches his head, and pulls his lips into a thin line, before popping them back out again. He is clearly feeling uneasy.
Right…
So, uh, sorry about cutting the whole, uh, trip down memory lane thing, short...
But, I figure we don’t need to do all that right now, right?
I mean, a few other things happened after that... Obviously, otherwise, I wouldn’t be here talking to you, but long story short, I died.
And ever since I’ve been runnin' 'round this place trying to find my way outta here, back down to my world.
Not as easy as I’d hoped it’d be.
He grins to himself, lost in thought.
Thought I’d found it one time, too.
Ended up in some wacked out version of reality.
Mom and Dad were there, but young… real young.
Managed to keep them safe for a while, you know, to give them a chance at a semi-normal life.
He shrugs.
As normal as it could be in that crazy-ass world…
God, that place made home look like a goddamn fairy tale.
He smiles again before licking his lips and glancing around uncomfortably.
Not much of a talker, huh?
That's okay.
He awkwardly drums his hands against his knees.
Like I said, I'm just damn happy to see someone else around here.
I figured after the whole speech I got from Jack about not interfering any more, I’d been put on time out, or whatever…
“Get around to the “there’ll be peace when you are done,” part of the song”, that’s what he’d said.
From THE WINCHESTERS 01.13 Hey, That's No Way to Say Goodbye. JACK--- wearing a white linen suit… then... CHUCK--- from 15.19 Inherit the Earth... also wearing a white linen suit.
Swallowing hard, his eyes darting wildly as they come back into focus.
Dean
What the hell was that?
He slowly stands up out of the IMPALA'S driver's seat and ducks and weaves around, as if looking for some sort of sign of something, before his gaze slowly lands back down THE CAMERA lens.
Was-- Did you do that?
He slowly nods again as he cautiously lowers himself back down into his seat, as if trying not to make any sudden movements.
Huh.
So, I guess you do talk after all, just less, “drunken chat after 3 am”, and more “Pink elephant, bad acid trip”.
Well, uhh, nice to meet you I guess?
Not to sound like a dick, but what’s with the visions of God's family tree?
From THE WINCHESTERS 01.13 Hey, That's No Way to Say Goodbye JACK--- wearing a white linen suit… then CHUCK--- from 15.19 Inherit the Earth wearing an identical outfit.
Dean scrunches his face up.
Dean
The suit? You want me to pay attention to--- you’re not trying to---
He laughs humorlessly, then scrubs a hand across his mouth.
Okay, yeah, sure, look, no offence or anything, I get that I don’t really understand how this works, but there ain’t no way you're tryin’ to say what I think you’re tryin’ to say.
Because if you are…
He trails off and pauses for a moment. His eyebrows, drawn as he stares at the grass just past his feet, clearly wrestling with himself internally.
Fine, If you somehow know something about something, then you're gonna have to prove it to me a helluva lot better than that because I sure as shit---
EXT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER.
DEAN appears back on earth. Standing in front of the bunker. His feet, slipping slightly in the mud. He spins around manically as his breath hitches in the cold autumn air, the smell of the decaying leaves around the bunker filling his lungs, and he watches the puff of it visible in the afternoon light as he breathes out. It had been a long time since he’d felt the cold on his skin, his nose, flushing, as it starts to go numb. It feels goddamn amazing, it feels uncomfortable; real. He knew, he could only be back on earth. He could feel it in his bones... in every single cell of his entire damn body.
Dean
whispering, shakily.
What the fuck?
TITLE CARD
Chapter 2: "Fuck" part 2
Summary:
Our Little World.
Chapter Text
INT. SAM’S HOUSE - MORNING.
(My Body is a Cage by Arcade Fire plays from the instrumental while we witness a montage)
♪ ♪ ♪
Open on a shot of an alarm clock hitting 7:00am and blaring. An arm reaches over and flips it off. Zooming out to reveal SAM WINCHESTER alone in a large, cozy looking bed. This is very decidedly not his room in the bunker. The walls are a warm brown and there is a nice big window on one side of the room. His hair is longer than we've ever seen it before; past his collarbones, it is flopped all over his face as if he has slept very deeply. He groans a little before pulling himself out of bed.
♪ ♪ ♪
SAM in a kitchen, he yawns as he checks his phone, smiling a little to himself as he types some kind of reply to someone. The industrial coffee machine starts to burr as it spits out a hot brown froth into his cup, his phone now taking second place in his mind.
♪ ♪ ♪
A hybrid car drives down suburbia and makes a turn onto a side road by a strip of red brick buildings. SAM pulls the car around the back of the strip and into a gravel parking lot.
♪ ♪ ♪
SAM knocks on the window of one of the buildings, on the window is a white sign that reads “Overland Park Naturopathy, Apothecary, and Wellness Clinic”. He gives a small smile and waves. A few moments later, a tall, broad woman with tattooed skin and long, graying, black curly hair, opens the door.
♪ ♪ ♪
SAM
Morning Hazel.
HAZEL
Morning Sam!
How are you today?
The woman - HAZEL has a warm and kind voice and a thick New Zealand accent. She holds the door open for SAM to enter, then follows him into the store.
INT. WELLNESS CLINIC - MORNING.
(music becomes diegetic blaring from a small black speaker on the reception desk)
♪ My body is a cage ♪
SAM
Yeah, good.
How are you?
There are crystals and jars of various liquids, books, yoga mats, and herbs, all lined up neatly across the white shelves on warm brown wooden floorboards. The walls are a calming shade of blue, and there is a seating area with huge grey couches littered with an assortment of different colorful cushions. Across from the seated area is a hallway that opens up to two other rooms. There is a water infuser steaming steadily on the coffee table in the waiting area, making the whole place smell of lavender.
SAM gives another trademark, awkward little smile as he and HAZEL walk toward a reception desk. HAZEL sits herself down behind it.
♪ We take what we’re given ♪
HAZEL
Ugh, tired.
I was up all night doing the laundry.
You know how it is.
♪ Just because you’ve forgotten ♪
SAM makes a face at this. He doesn't know how it is to be so behind in laundry that he would need to stay up all night to do it... He huffs out a laugh.
♪ Doesn’t mean you’re forgiven ♪
SAM
Sure.
SAM’S eyes dart upwards as he notices the music. He pulls his lips into a line as his brows lower.
Sorry, but, uh… could you please change the song?
♪ I’m living in an age ♪
HAZEL looks confused for a moment before something changes behind her eyes. It’s subtle, though, and SAM clearly misses it.
HAZEL
Sure thing, dear.
She rolls her chair to the speakers on the other side of the desk and leans over to fiddle with the phone sitting in it.
It’s about time I put on the work playlist, anyway.
SAM
Sorry.
SAM stares down at his hands and starts picking at a dry bit of skin peeling from his thumb. The dry skin is surrounded by a scab, and he pulls away the skin, causing the area to start to bleed. He then shoves both hands into his jacket pockets.
HAZEL
No need to apologize, honey.
HAZEL swivels the chair back toward him, her eyes still trained on the phone as she leans and clicks the "work" playlist.
(Positivity (sound bath) by Aum Pro plays)
♪ ♪ ♪
SAM closes his eyes briefly and takes a deep, grounding breath.
HAZEL
I’ve put your breakfast on your desk, sweetie, and your first appointment is in fifteen minutes, so you’d better hurry up and eat it.
SAM shakes his head and sighs with a genuine grin on his face.
SAM
You ever gonna tell me how you do that?
HAZEL smiles genuinely, enjoying herself.
HAZEL
It’s the world's most useless party trick: knowing in advance when my boss hasn’t eaten the most important meal of the day.
SAM scoffs and scrunches up his face, clearly uncomfortable.
SAM
Boss?
Ew. No.
Well… as long as it’s not anything satanic or anything.
HAZEL laughs a little too strongly at this as SAM smiles, and makes to go down the hallway, before turning back quickly.
Uhm, thank you… for the-the food.
SAM then walks down a hall and into the first of the small rooms behind the main entrance.
The room has a massage table, a desktop computer, a mini water fountain, and an incense holder. There is a low, warm light coming from the ceiling. SAM adjusts the dimmer to lighten the place up, before plonking himself down into his chair. He considers the tofu breakfast bagel and smoothie on his desk, and shakes his head again, smiling to himself before taking a large bite.
EXT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - AFTERNOON.
DEAN rummages around in his pockets of his jacket and then pats down his jeans.
DEAN
Uhh, You don't happen to have a key to the place, do you?
Not that I'm not grateful or anything!
He amends quickly, then glances toward THE CAMERA for a moment before returning his gaze toward the rusty bunker door. Trying to suss out how long it would take to bust through the lock... if it would even be possible... given the crazy strong combo of Men of Letters and angelic, warding. He tucks his hands into his jacket pockets again absent-mindedly, in an attempt to keep his fingers from going numb.
It's just that I can't exactly get in without---
He slowly draws his gaze back toward THE CAMERA.
---the key.
He finishes, pulling out the garish Men of Letters key from his right pocket. He seems a little taken aback by the small act of kindness. In fact, he seems to be struggling to cope with the newfound key in his hand, even more than he was able to manage with the concept of his own resurrection. He falters for a few seconds more before his entire attitude changes. He stares down the lens, giving every ounce of “tough guy” air that he can muster.
Alright…
What do you want?
He licks his lips. The cold of the autumn drying them out quickly. He waits for a moment as if expecting some sort of a reply.
What. do. you. want. from. me?!
Silence. He takes a few more steps toward THE CAMERA. He is vibrating with energy, even as his feet slip a little in the mud.
C'mon?!
Tell me already!
Again. He is left with no reply. He shakes his head angrily and sets his jaw, staring at the ground. He gathers himself for a moment before speaking again.
In my very, very--
His exhaustion can be heard peeking out in his voice.
--damn long experience…
Mysterious and powerful beings don't exactly bring you back from the dead, without expecting somethin’ in return.
He glances back at THE CAMERA, his eyes now ablaze with the fury of a seemingly endlessly long and tormented life.
So, what is it?
You want me to dance around a little for you?
Play your poor little hero in some unwinnable game?
He all but literally spits venom.
I'm. done. with. it.
You may as well send me back now, cause I sure as shit ain't doing all that again.
He spreads his arms wide, inviting the end.
You hear me?!
I'm fucking done!
Just kill me now and get it over with already!!!
He takes a deep breath and closes his eyes.
If he's scared at all, it's not evident.
From 15.20 Carry On. SAM sobs as DEAN'S body goes limp, resting between SAM and the barn's supporting beam.
DEAN’S eyes slowly open, his brows are furrowed.
DEAN
I--
He shakes his head trying to clear it. His eyes dart around frantically a moment and he swallows hard.
He's clearly rattled by the look of anguish on his younger brother's face.
…What… are you saying.
His voice is small this time. He sounds almost childlike; he's scared.
From 10.18 Book of the Damned, SAM and DEAN sit in the Impala having a BM (Brotherly Moment).
DEAN
We’re due for a win, okay?
Overdue.
I’ll tell you another thing, if this actually does work, we’re gonna take some time off.
SAM
What, like a vacation?
DEAN
Mm-hmm.
And I’m not talking just like a weekend in Vegas or sitting in some crap motel watching pay-per-porn.
No, I’m talking about a beach.
Drinking cervezas, go for a swim, mingle with the local wildlife.
When was the last time either one of us was on a beach?
SAM
Never.
DEAN
Sand between our toes, Sammy.
Sand between our toes.
From 10.16 Paint It Black, DEAN sits in the confession at church.
DEAN
I mean, you know, there’s – there’s things, there’s…people, feelings that I-I-I want to experience differently than I have before, or maybe even for the first time.
From 2.01 In My Time of Dying, DEAN, as a spirit in the veil, yelling at JOHN, who can’t hear a word.
DEAN
I've done everything you have ever asked me.
Everything.
I have given everything I've ever had.
And you're just going to sit there, and you're going to watch me die?
DEAN blinks rapidly as his eyes come back into focus. He doesn’t remember the last flashback, but he moves past that relatively quickly, given his long, long history of having to adapt to a constant onslaught of weird shit.
DEAN
So what?
You just wanna help… for the sake of… helping?
He narrows his eyes suspiciously, licks at his lips, and adjusts his stance, sizing up THE CAMERA.
Sure.
He huffs out a fake laugh.
Sure.
I’ll play along.
Not like I got a lot of choices here, right?
He drags his gaze away and jams the key into the door. He’s still obviously pissed off, full of pent-up rage from more than one lifetime's worth of bullshit from CHUCK. He pushes the door and it opens with a scream from the hinges.
He flexes his hand as he stands there at the doorway for a moment. His demeanor changes briefly, then he steps through the door and into the bunker.
INT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - AFTERNOON.
DEAN
SAMMY?
The lights automatically flicker on as he comes skipping down the steps into the main map room. He’s grinning a little too wide… He’s anxious.
Sammy, I’m home!
His head whips around wildly as he marches into the library.
Sam?!
He continues down the back steps toward SAM’S room. Nothing. He heads to the kitchen, picking up his pace a little.
Sammy, you here?
Still nothing. He heads down to the TV room or Dean Cave. Flipping on light switches as he goes. There is a thin layer of dust on every surface. The whole bunker is still. The air hangs thick.
Finally, we see DEAN enter his own bedroom. His faceis full of a mix of confusion and worry as he sits on the edge of his bed in a daze. There are sounds of crinkling of paper as his jeans meet the bed. He glances down to find the crumpled corner of a note peeking out by his thigh. He pulls it from underneath him and reads it. We see the letter over his shoulder as he reads.
“Dean, I’m sorry. I’m at Overland Park if you ever make it back. I couldn’t do it. I’m so sorry”.
We watch as DEAN rereads the letter over and over, his mouth moving silently, as if the words are jumbled and nonsensical. DEAN smiles, this time, it is finally a genuine smile. He jumps up from the edge of his bed and claps his hands, and rubs them together. He heads over to his drawers and grabs an empty duffle bag from on top. He then opens each drawer and grabs random clothes: a fist full of socks, a few pairs of boxers, some t-shirts, another pair of jeans, and one other jacket. He haphazardly shoves them into the duffle bag as he goes. He moves around his room quickly, picking up random weapons and stuffing them into the bag, trying very hard not to think of the fact that they would have all been placed there by SAM after their last hunt together… after SAM had returned to the bunker alone…
Once satisfied, he rips the zipper closed on the duffle, and a small smile starts to creep its way back onto his face. He looks at THE CAMERA, then his gaze floats up toward the ceiling, as if he is imagining SAM out on the street above.
DEAN
He got out… Sammy got out.
He murmurs lowly to himself, then his smile slowly fades as his eyes meet THE CAMERA again.
Say that I buy the whole, “BFF” crap that you're peddling…
You gonna follow me around for the rest of my life or…?
He waits for a response that doesn't come, and then sighs and slumps his shoulders.
I swear talkin’ to you’s like playing Twenty Questions with The Yellow Submarine.
He rubs at the back of his neck for a moment, thinking.
Alright, so you say you're in this just to see Sammy and I get catch a break, I'm guessing you're at least sticking around till then, right?
From 1.01 The Pilot, SAM and DEAN are in a parking lot walking toward the impala as they talk.
DEAN
So what are you gonna do? You're just gonna live some normal, apple pie life?
Is that it?
SAM
No.
Not normal.
Safe.
DEAN sizes up THE CAMERA again, then shakes his head incredulously.
DEAN
Sure, you just hang tight while I get to work on skipping off into the sunset for you, then.
He chuckles at this, grabs the duffle off his bed and slings it over his shoulder.
Well, if you are thinkin’ of sticking around, we're gonna need to lay down some ground rules…
He adjusts his stance as he hikes the slipping strap of his duffle up his arm and back onto his shoulder, then points to his index finger as he talks.
One: Toilet, shower, sleeping, hell-- bedroom business of any kind--
He sweeps his hand out in a line.
--all off limits. You're gonna need to find some other poor son of a bitch to keep you entertained during those moments.
He points to the second finger.
B. No more beaming me around.
I hate it!
I don't like it!
I hate it so damn much!
He forms fists with his hands absent-mindedly, then has to readjust the duffle strap again as it slips.
...I don't know, maybe that was just a one-time deal; Get me the hell outta heaven, type thing… but if you're serious about keeping that pretty little head of yours…
He smirks.
You see where I'm going with this, right?
He thinks for a moment and takes another visual sweep around his room before walking toward his door then holding it open for THE CAMERA to pass through. He follows after and closes his bedroom door.
Alright.
I gotta hit the nail.
You can wait for me in the car.
He squints at THE CAMERA, his eyes searching for something.
Perhaps a response, a “Which car could you possibly be talking about?”
He doesn't seem phased by whatever he does or doesn't find, so he takes a step back and juts his head upwards in approval.
Alright.
Keys should be hanging by the roller door if Sammy's put 'em back.
Otherwise, we'll figure something out.
He turns to leave down the hall, and THE CAMERA begins to turn the opposite direction, but DEAN quickly doubles back and the CAMERA slowly turns back to face him too. He points down the lens.
No beaming!!!
He re-emphasises quickly, then turns again and makes his way down the hall.
INT. BABY - AFTERNOON.
The CAMERA pans over the scene from the passenger seat of the Impala. There are a few other vehicles present in the garage, all covered in a layer of dust. CASTIEL’S 1968 Mercury pickup is amongst them. The CAMERA lingers on it for a moment before turning toward the Impala’s trunk as the door swings upwards, blocking out the view through the back window. A thump is heard as DEAN throws his duffle in, then another thump as he shuts the trunk again. The driver's side door opens, and DEAN slides in, shutting the door behind him. He looks the CAMERA up and down.
DEAN
I realized, I don't know what to call you.
He sniffs and averts his gaze as he focuses on putting on his seatbelt.
You gotta name?
He clicks his belt in and stares back up at the CAMERA. He waits a moment, silently, patiently. No reply comes.
Alright…
I guess I'm gonna haveta come up with something to call you.
He grins at the CAMERA and picks up the keys from the seat beside him and sticks them into the ignition. He presses the little button on one of the keys, and the roller door comes to life. Groaning in agony as its metal joints crack.
I should have raided the kitchen for whatever was still edible.
DEAN mumbles to himself as he drums his fingers against the steering wheel. He jumps a little as he feels a plate materialize upon his lap.
Oh… uh…
He chuckles awkwardly.
I didn't mean---
You didn't have to---
As much as he tries to be decline, a sheepish grin falls upon his face as he stares down at the sandwich in his lap. It's stacked to the brim with fillings. His stomach growls audibly. He sniffs.
Thanks.
He sighs contentedly while avoiding looking at the CAMERA. Then notices the cup of coffee on the seat where the keys had once sat, and a large bottle of water beside it. His eyes dart toward the CAMERA. He is silent. He breathes. His eyes are full of vulnerability, with the smallest hint of fear. He swallows, then turns back toward the dashboard. He turns the keys in the ignition, and the Impala roars to life.
Alright, let's get this show on the road, shall we?
He grins, fumbles the sandwich into one hand, and manages to take a huge bite as he swings the steering wheel around with his other hand and peels out of the garage. He then presses the little button on his keys again as the roller door lowers itself back down.
BLACKOUT.
END OF ACT ONE.
Chapter 3: "Fuck" part 3
Summary:
O Brother, Where Art Thou?
Chapter Text
ACT TWO
INT. BABY - AFTERNOON.
(Master of Puppets by Metallica plays nondiegetically as we see a montage of DEAN driving through KANSAS. He appears to be alone in THE CAR, headbanging a little to the guitar and enthusiastically playing the drums on the steering wheel.)
♪ Taste me you will see, More is all you need, You're dedicated to, How I'm killing you ♪
We see DEAN turn at MARYSVILLE towards BLUE RAPIDS.
♪ Come crawling faster, Obey your master, Your life burns faster, Obey your master, Master ♪
DEAN refuels BABY and himself in TOPEKA
♪ Master of puppets I'm pulling your strings, Twisting your mind and smashing your dreams, Blinded by me, you can't see a thing, Just call my name, 'cause I'll hear you scream-- ♪
DEAN drives past a sign telling drivers where to turn off for LAWRENCE.
(Gone At Last by Paul Simon, Phoebe Snow, and The Jessy Dixon Singers cuts the song off diegetically
The piano intro enters as loud as the chorus of the previous song was playing, and DEAN makes a bewildered and frankly offended face at his radio as he fiddles with the dials.
♪ The night was black the road was icy, snow was falling drifts were high ♪
DEAN jumps, swerves the steering wheel slightly and does a double take as he glances at THE CAMERA, then course corrects THE IMPALA back straight, sighing. He slams his fist against the steering wheel.
DEAN
Dammit.
He shakes his head.
♪ I was weary, for my driving, and I stopped to rest a while ♪
He sighs again, then glances back at THE CAMERA.
DEAN
Sorry…
Didn't mean to scare you.
It's been a hot minute since anyone's popped in on me like that.
He chuckles and, without thinking too much about it, adjusts the volume knob again. This time, the song's volume lowers to a comfortable level. The lyrics are still audible, and DEAN listens as it finally dawns on him that BABY'S radio wasn't just playing up.
♪ I sat down at a truck stop, I was thinking about my past, I've had a long streak of that bad luck, but I'm praying it's gone at last ♪
This you?
He takes the silence as a confirmation, then smirks.
♪ Long gone at last, long at last, gone at last, gone at last, gone at last, gone at last, gone at last, gone at last ♪
Cute.
He says it sarcastically, then scoffs. The music grows slightly louder, yet still within a comfortable range, and DEAN casts another look at THE CAMERA, although this time there is a glint in his eye, he may even be on the verge of a smile, he tries to hide it under a look of confusion.
♪ I've had a long (I've had a long) streak of bad luck, but I pray it's gone at last ♪
He shakes his head again as his face betrays him and a grin spreads across his face.
Alright.
He chuckles again, turns the song up even louder and begins to sing along and we see him smiling as he does. Out of the visible windows, farms and ranches pass in the distance. There are other cars seen driving by, small canyons and creeks come and go. All within the last couple of minutes of the song. This isn't a montage anymore, it's just life.
DEAN
♪ I ain't dumb, I've kicked around some, I don't fall too easily, but that boy looked so dejected, he just grabbed my sympathy ♪
He's really getting into it now, holding a fake microphone, and making funny faces.
♪ Sweet little soul now, what's your problem? Tell me why you're so downcast, I've had a long (I've had a long) streak of bad luck, but I'm praying it's gone at last ♪
He sings all the vocal runs with gusto, doing hand waves for emphasis, and claps along like he's in a church gospel; he's really milking it.
♪ gone at last, gone at last, gone at last, gone at last, gone at last, gone at last, gone at last, gone at last, I've had a long streak of bad luck, but I pray it's gone at last ♪
He continues to spare grins at THE CAMERA as much as he can, while still driving safely. He changes lanes to take the exit road toward DES MOINES.
♪ Once in a while from out of nowhere, when you don't expect it, and you're unprepared ♪
His smile falters a little.
♪ Somebody will come ♪
His voice is a little too loud, his smile a bit too fake. His voice breaks out of tune at the end and his eyes glazed over. He swallows and clears his throat.
♪ And lift you higher, and your burdens will be shared ♪
He doesn't sing this line. He reaches over and lowers the volume until it's barely audible anymore. He stares at the road out of the windscreen.
From 15.18 Despair,
CASTIEL
I always wondered, ever since I took that burden, that curse, I wondered what it could be? What my true happiness could even look like.
DEAN slams on the breaks for a brief moment, causing a horn to blare as a dark blue Honda Civic barely manages to swerve around him. He blinks and pulls BABY back up to a crawling pace by pushing his foot down on the accelerator. His face works through a mixture of emotions: confusion, fear, pure devastating grief… then it lands on anger.
He grits his teeth as he checks his mirrors as BABY darts back around the very car that just overtook him. After a moment, he glares down at THE CAMERA.
DEAN
Don't--
He breathes a ragged breath. He is physically shaking with rage as he spares a look back at the road in front of him. A sign reads KANSAS CITY.
Don't you ever---
EVER, show that to me again.
EVER.
Okay?
He is silent for a moment as he drives into the city. He runs a hand over his mouth and checks the mirrors, flips the indicator, then switches lanes. His voice is small.
Alright.
Good.
He clears his throat and sniffs, then all at once his anger seems to disappear. He’s suddenly shifted into MISSION MODE. He checks the rearview before changing lanes again.
I'm gonna need you to wait in the car a while, while I'm out finding my brother.
I can't be gettin’ hit with your Vulcan Mind Meld when I'm out there, trying to pick up info, from the locals.
From 16.01 Fuck, SAM knocks on a window of a red brick building. The white lettering on the window reads “Overland Park Naturopathy, Apothecary, and Wellness Clinic” .
DEAN’S view of the road comes back again. He swerves suddenly and then overcorrects. The veer of BABY is so needlessly extreme that he grazes the front side wheel against the curb.
Woah!
Hey!
He tuts at THE CAMERA and lets the car idle for a moment in a parking space.
He waves a small, uncomfortably apologetic wave at a pedestrian on their phone, who is making an irked face as they stand on the sidewalk close by.
He sighs.
Rule number four:
No more visions while I'm driving.
Despite his irritation, his eyes light up a little and he reaches for his phone. He then opens the Maps app on his phone and plugs in “Overland Park Wellness” he jabs his finger at the first and only option to come up, and a voice rings out from his cell.
“Starting route to Overland Park, Naturopathy, Apothecary, and Wellness Clinic”.
FADE
INT. WELLNESS CLINIC - EVENING .
( Schumann 432-7 Crown Chakra by 369 plays)
HAZEL sits at the front desk typing away on a computer.
SAM WINCHESTER walks out of his office and into the main open space of the store. He holds a sheet of paper with an outline of the front and back of a person's body on it. There are scribbles all over it and random words littered across it. He flips the form over and scans the top of the document.
SAM
Richard Hunter.
He calls in a loud, calm voice and looks up from the paper.
DEAN is sitting in the waiting area. He grins at THE CAMERA, then winks
DEAN
Yeah, that's me, but uh...
He rises from his seat.
You can call me Dick.
SAM stares at him, confusion etched plainly on his face. He seemingly glitches at seeing his dead brother. DEAN pumps his brows at SAM, clearly pleased with himself.
SAM glances at HAZEL for a moment, who has noticed that something has caused SAM to plant himself in the middle of the store like a statue. She follows SAM’S gaze toward DEAN, and her eyes widen a moment. She then composes herself and clears her throat audibly before continuing to type on the reception computer.
SAM returns his gaze to stare at his brother, whose mouth is all but literally on the floor; he clearly isn't imagining this. HAZEL saw a man standing there, too.
Uhh-- After you?
DEAN chuckles, gesturing a hand toward the hallway, and SAM follows robotically. DEAN holds the door open for SAM and THE CAMERA to enter SAM'S ROOM.
Wow.
DEAN beams, entering after, and closes the door behind him.
You know, I think you may actually be getting worse at this with time.
SAM plonks himself into his chair and shakes his head as DEAN half leans, half sits on the massage table.
I mean… Richard Hunter...?
He makes a face.
…Nothing?!
SAM stares at his brother, his eyes glazed over as he picks at the edge of the band-aid on his thumb absentmindedly and speaks in a daze.
SAM
I--huh
...Dean?
DEAN
In the flesh...
DEAN gestures to the massage table. In an attempt to make things go back to normal as soon as possible, he speaks through a laugh.
What... you giving out happy endings for pay now?
SAM continues to stare at him with a hauntingly blank face, then he stares down at his hands in his lap, in a look of overwhelming confusion.
SAM
Its... Reiki...
DEAN nods slowly and starts to gnaw on the inside of his lower lip.
DEAN
Figures...
I disappear a while...
And you go full on Grateful Dead, Yogurt Mom.
SAM
It’s been… years.
DEAN’S brows furrow at his younger brother. He clears his throat.
DEAN
Yeah, well, ain’t for lack of trying.
SAM looks up at DEAN, then, a newfound fear and uncertainty consuming his features and exposing his thoughts so completely. DEAN pretends not to notice.
Anyway, this is the part where you break out the holy water, Sammy, remember?
SAM
Uh, yeah.
Right.
He leans over his desk as if on autopilot and grabs an unassuming 500ml water bottle. He then hands it to his brother. DEAN snatches the bottle, his eyes widen and he shrugs.
DEAN
Dude, what’s with you?
I could’ve killed you a zillion times over by now.
He shakes his head and downs some water. He makes a show of swallowing, he opens his mouth and waggles his tongue around in an imitation of someone who has taken a pill, then points to the metal lip of the bottle.
Silver?
SAM nods slowly, still completely dissociated. He just continues to stare at DEAN.
Smart.
SAM
How…
Are you…
Here…Dean?
DEAN takes a deep breath in and smirks, ready to respond, but he doesn't get the chance because SAM cuts him off.
I tried…
SAM becomes entranced by his band-aid again, pulling it off halfway, then replacing it so it's lined up more evenly.
Everything...
I mean...
Everything…
that I could think of to get you back down here.
He seems exhausted. DEAN swallows ,and his lips waver into a thin line.
And-and nothing.
It’s like--
It’s--
He shakes his head as if trying to clear it. DEAN wanders over and crouches in front of his little brother. He places his head in the way of where SAM is staring blankly, so he's forced to look DEAN in the eye again.
DEAN
Hey, Sammy--
He pats his hand gently against his brother's cheek twice.
Look, I’m sorry, Sam.
I get it.
Probably traumatised you a little back there, huh?
But, hey, it’s okay, Sammy, I’m back now, right?
He tries a gentle smile. Finally, SAM’S eyes focus a little as he looks at his brother.
SAM
But… how?
DEAN grins again, then groans, his knees popping as he stands up. He sweeps his hand toward THE CAMERA, presenting a grand entrance.
DEAN
That’d be my little friend here.
He watches as SAM pulls his brows down and searches the direction that DEAN just indicated. Evidently coming up empty, SAM returns his gaze toward his brother, lifts his shoulders slightly and shakes his head. DEAN looks at THE CAMERA, unsure this time.
Uh…
Huh?
There is someone here--
He chuckles a little, clearly worried that he’s potentially going nuts.
They’re just being a little shy….
DEAN turns to SAM and grins, focusing instead on trying to pull forward the remnants of his brother out of this strange zombie. Benching the potential reality that he's dreamed up an imaginary friend as a problem for later.
You’re just gonna have to trust me on this one, I think, dude.
SAM pulls his lips together, concerned, but if he's worried DEAN'S lost it, he's keeping it under wraps… Perhaps due to his capacity to comprehend anything at all right now.
SAM
So, it's…
Like…
An angel?
He draws his gaze back over to the vague area of the room where THE CAMERA sits. DEAN considers this as he searches THE CAMERA. He shrugs one shoulder, sucking his teeth and crinkling one of his eyes.
DEAN
I don’t know, man…
I don’t know what it is, honestly.
All I know is that it turned up in heaven ‘n’ has been followin’ me ‘round ever since
Pumping me with a bunch of psychic mind loads instead of talking in human words,
and…
I don’t know, dude, just like…
He turns and narrows his eyes at THE CAMERA. He licks his lips.
Check this out.
He spares a glance at SAM, inconspicuously, before walking the small room, looking at the ceiling, walls, anywhere but THE CAMERA.
Man…
He sighs melodramatically. His shoulders sag as he shakes his head.
I sure could use a nice, cool beer right about now.
He smiles at SAM, then turns, and sure enough, a green bottleneck appears in the centre of the massage table, condensation dripping down the label. DEAN grins and points to the bottle.
Tell me you can, at least, see that.
SAM doesn't even need to answer; his face says it all. His eyebrows shoot up and the reaction makes DEAN’S smile grow even wider. He walks over toward the beer and winks at his brother, smugly. Then his smile falls, and he lifts the beer to show SAM.
You got an opener for this thing amongst all that “Age of Aquarius”?
DEAN doesn't wait for an answer, he starts rummaging around SAM’S desk. SAM, however, continues to stare at the massage table.
SAM
Uhh, Dean?
DEAN swings around to find a plain silver bottle opener sitting where the beer once was.
DEAN
Awesome.
DEAN lifts the beer in the air at THE CAMERA, as if in a cheer, before picking up the bottle opener and using it on the cap. He takes a swig, and SAM scoffs, shaking his head. Then SAM’S eyes widen as something finally seems to click.
SAM
I can’t believe you’re really here
SAM stands now, he laughs, and shakes his head again, while his eyes bulge exaggeratedly. He opens his arms, and DEAN grins again, clearly relieved. He places the beer back down in its original place and throws his arms around his little brother.
DEAN
There we go.
He laughs and slaps his hand hard against his brother's back. They both laugh, feeling their bodies shake against each other as they squeeze each other tightly. SAM swats away a stray tear as he laughs, then sniffs a little too loudly, causing DEAN to pull his head back to peer at his brother's face. Noting SAM’S reddening eyes and wobbling smile, DEAN pulls him even tighter and slaps his back again.
Hey, now.
Those’d better be happy tears, and not an allergic reaction to man stink.
SAM blubbers out a laugh and releases his brother, smacking his shoulder twice. DEAN takes a step back and smirks up at him.
SAM
I wasn’t gonna say anything but…
Dude, you reek.
He sniffs again and chuckles.
When was the last time you even showered?
DEAN grins sheepishly and shrugs.
DEAN
That bad, huh?
He lifts his arm and sniffs his pit through his jacket. He then makes a face and fakes a gag.
Years ago, I guess...?
DEAN shrugs. SAM laughs again, wiping at his eyes. He sighs deeply, contentedly, then slaps DEAN on his upper arm.
SAM
C’mon then, Dick Hunter, my house isn’t too far from here.
END OF ACT TWO
Chapter 4: "Fuck" part 4
Summary:
Safe House.
Chapter Text
ACT THREE
INT. SAM’S HOUSE - NIGHT.
SAM and DEAN sit on a huge grey corner sofa, laughing.
On the oval chestnut coffee table, wedged against the sofa, there are a bunch of empty beer bottles and a decanter three-quarters full. DEAN'S duffle bag has been sa on the edge of the couch and sits open. His hair is damp, and he's changed into some of the clothes he brought along from the bunker. His dirty clothes are in the washing machine, churning in the next room. There are huge chunks of selenite and clear quartz placed around on SAM'S living room floor and scattered across his bookshelves. SAM stares down at his phone.
SAM
It says it’s locust in ancient Greek.
He looks up from his phone.
Could be that the Akrida were the plague of locusts from the Book of Exodus?
DEAN swallows a mouthful of whiskey and hums in acknowledgement. Then his eyes glide past his brother, and he raises his glass to the CAMERA beside SAM. SAM sees this and follows his gaze, again evidently finding nothing.
DEAN
Hey, you're back!
See, Sammy, I told you they'd be back.
He grins, looking between his brother and the CAMERA, his eyes are murky-looking. He's a little drunk.
SAM snorts at his brother's lack of attention and slightly slurred speech, he takes a sip of his own drink. SAM then turns and addresses the vague air beside him, he seems to be relatively sober in comparison. If he's worried that there's nothing truly there, he still seems to be putting a hell of a lot of effort into pretending to believe that there is.
SAM
Hey.
He places his drink down on the coffee table and twists his torso toward the space next to him on the couch, giving the air his full attention.
Uhh…
I just wanted to thank you.
DEAN grins, leans over the couch and pushes his brother's head down gently, angling it toward the CAMERA. DEAN leans back into the comfortable sofa.
Oh.
Umm...
SAM flashes a smile to DEAN in appreciation before turning back to THE CAMERA.
Thank you…
For bringing Dean back.
SAM'S eyes look through the space, focusing on the fake lambskin rug beyond the couch, but he tries, in earnest all the same, to portray just how grateful he truly is, with the full might of his puppy dog eyes. DEAN grins at SAM, then directs his words toward THE CAMERA.
DEAN
Look, you obviously get that Sam's one of the good guys, right?
So, why hide, huh?
C'mon, you're making Sammy feel left out, here.
DEAN waits a beat while watching SAM'S face intently for any sort of sign of recognition. After a moment, SAM turns hesitantly back to DEAN with a look of compassionate understanding etched upon his face. DEAN tries not to look dejected, he's clearly starting to worry that, despite any proof, there may not really be anything truly there.
SAM
It's okay, Dean.
He addresses the rug again.
It's okay.
I'm just happy to have you on our side.
DEAN raises his brows, then mumbles as he lifts his drink to his mouth.
DEAN
Our side…
He scoffs into his glass. SAM'S head whips around toward his brother.
SAM
What's that supposed to mean?
SAM watches DEAN drink. SAM'S face is pained, and he absent-mindedly picks at his thumb. He’s removed his plaster completely now and has started in on the freshly healed patch of skin around the other scab. DEAN just waves a hand dismissively, sloshing his glass in the process.
DEAN
Relax, Sam.
He avoids eye contact.
I'm not talkin’ ‘bout you.
Hell, I'm glad you got out.
Proud even.
He grins at his brother.
Would I have made the same choices?
Never.
He looks around the room to emphasise this.
But I see it for you, y'know…
Like…
I get it…
For you.
He downs the rest of his drink at SAM'S sympathetic look.
SAM
You mean…
Like, we don’t really have a side, because we're the only ones left?
DEAN pumps his brows up in response, then takes another large swig from his glass, downing the last of it.
Cas and Jack,
you mean?
SAM'S voice is small and incredibly gentle… far too gentle for an intoxicated DEAN to be able to hear right now. DEAN closes his eyes tightly and clenches his jaw. He takes a moment, then opens his eyes again, puts on a great big smile, leans over to the decanter on the coffee table and refills his glass.
DEAN
Anyway, we're celebrating!
Shouldn't have brought it up.
He shakes his head and leans back against the sofa, looking sloppily at SAM.
Tell me more about your new job.
You said the receptionist got you the gig?
SAM looks at DEAN with even more concern and pity, before sighing and going along with his brother's subject change.
SAM
Uh, yeah.
She did.
She said she'd heard about us both, just through the business, which is…
He shakes his head.
I guess it kind of makes sense?
Hunters come through to get supplies every now and again…
SAM is cut off by the sound of the doorbell. The brothers look at each other. DEAN grabs his handgun from the duffle and is halfway toward the front door before SAM has a second to react. He slowly stands, shaking his head, and follows behind his brother.
Dude, it’ll be the pizza’s--
DEAN
Who’s there?
DEAN stands beside the door with his gun angled toward it. SAM sighs and ignores his brother's looks of distress as he takes a look through his door’s peephole. His mouth falls open, and his brows shoot up. SAM glances at his brother, completely dumbfounded, before he opens the door.
SAM
Jack?!
JACK stands under the porch light. He is wearing his new white linen suit, a la CHUCK, and smiles at SAM innocuously.
DEAN remains beside the door. He flattens himself against the wall as much as possible and stares wildly and suspiciously into the CAMERA. SAM glances at his brother in confusion before understanding flashes across his face. He addresses JACK.
Hey!
He steps outside onto the porch and wraps his arms around JACK, who, only after a moment, returns the hug with much less gusto.
Uh--
Not that I'm not happy to see you...
SAM lowers his arms and takes a step back toward the door, which he grabs and swings behind him without looking, just managing to shut, but not close completely, so that DEAN can still hear.
But… er…
What are you doing here?!
He grins as convincingly as he possibly can, and JACK just looks back at him with a face that reminds him that he's omniscient… and can see right through his act.
JACK’S face then changes into a look of pity, a counterfeit version of his usual sympathy that appears more... like condescension.
JACK
I know he's here, Sam, don't make this harder on yourselves than it needs to be.
His voice is gentle, kind, and hearing it makes SAM’S breathing start to pick up, he can feel his brain start to reject its fear and conk out again. DEAN remains frozen against the wall, staring at the CAMERA, as he waits… JACK walks past SAM and places a hand on the door handle.
SAM
I-- Jack-- he’s already here?
Do you really have to take him?
JACK spares another look of frustratingly kind, yet dead-eyed, sympathy.
JACK
I'm sorry, Sam, really, but it's just the natural order of things.
JACK opens the door and---
From 16.01 Fuck. DEAN is in the hallway of the bunker, He spins around to THE CAMERA.
DEAN
No Beaming!
From 5.22 Swan Song, DEAN is driving, SAM riding shotgun. CASTIEL is asleep in the back seat.
SAM
I'm sorry, Dean. You have to.
THEN, SAM AND DEAN WINCHESTER FIND THEMSELVES IN THE BUNKER’S MAP ROOM, WHICH HAS BEEN RESTORED TO FULL POWER AND NOW HAS THE ABILITY TO PROTECT FROM THEM FROM JACK.
INT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - NIGHT.
SAM and DEAN look around. Their mouths agape. They BOTH slowly draw their gaze toward THE CAMERA. Then SAM closes his mouth again, his eyes glaze over, and he walks to a chair by the map table, then drops himself into it. DEAN addresses THE CAMERA.
DEAN
Uhh, thanks.
Then, dragging his gaze toward his brother, he speaks again.
You good, Sammy?
SAM continues to stare at his feet.
SAM
Yeah--
He huffs out a sarcastic laugh.
I just need… a sec...
DEAN looks back at THE CAMERA, sharing a knowing look of worry. He wanders over and pulls up a chair.
DEAN
You need a-- uhh…
He looks between his brother and THE CAMERA.
Another three fingers, neat?
Two glasses appear on the MAP TABLE beside THE BOYS. DEAN grins at THE CAMERA. SAM shakes his head, smiling, he brings his eyes to meet his brother.
SAM
I think, I just…
He sighs, incredulously, and goes at his thumb again, bringing his gaze back down to his feet.
I got too used to all this being over…
DEAN’S brows shoot up. He smiles. He’s hurt.
DEAN
You don’t say…
SAM
I mean it, Dean.
I never thought I’d be able to actually do it, but... things were--
They were settled.
I was settled--
DEAN
--Then I derailed your “Peace Train” with my “Crazy Train”.
DEAN points at THE CAMERA, SAM follows and gives the saddest attempt at a smile down its lens.
SAM
It’s--
He sighs again.
It doe’n’t matter--
I’m not--
I--
They sit in silence and DEAN shots his drink before pulling SAM’S glass toward him.
DEAN
Yeah…
He takes a sip.
SAM
I never wanted to come back here…
This--
The bunker…
He chuckles.
The lack of sunlight…
DEAN squints at his brother.
…It’s-- It’s so much harder to stay…
SAM’S eyes focus and he shakes his head again.
…Never mind.
DEAN sighs and rubs a hand over his beard.
DEAN
Look, I uh-- I get it-- you want out-- always have,
And if it were as simple as getting Divine Comedy over there to shoot you back to Kansas City alone,
I’d do it but…
He nods to THE CAMERA.
You wanna show Sammy what you showed me about Jack--
SAM
--Actually, if it's all the same, I’d really rather skip over the psychic assault.
DEAN raises a brow. Then pouts, he raises his glass to his mouth, considering it before speaking.
DEAN
Well, alright...
David Lynch, here, thinks Chuck’s back and running the show again...
Only this time he’s rocking Jack’s meat.
SAM scratches his head and tucks his hair behind his ear.
SAM
And you believe it?
DEAN shrugs.
DEAN
I ain’t ready to start wearing either team's colours.
SAM shakes his head.
Sue me, I guess I’m just a little hesitant to send you back out there with your eyes glued shut and nothing but a bunch of freaking amethysts to defend yourself if-- hell-- when--
Jack or-or Chuck comes knocking, looking to drag me back to The Matrix.
SAM
Jack… wouldn’t…
DEAN scoffs.
DEAN
Wouldn’t what?!
Be a hands-on god?
Make himself be a part of the story?
The kid’s gettin’ more views on him lately than Paris Hilton's sex tape.
SAM makes a face.
SAM
So, what, this whole time you’ve been gone…
Chucks just been watching me…
Going to work every day?
Why…?
Because he finds my astrology chart readings really fascinating?
DEAN
Wouldn’t put it past the guy-- but, uh, I don’t know man…
All I know is that our friend here seems to think that Jack’s bad news, and honestly…
There’s something about him, Sam, he’s been different since he drank the god juice.
SAM
And you don’t think that maybe that’s just it?
That maybe becoming God and-and the Darkness…
That, that just changes somebody?
DEAN
Say, you’re right,
If you’re really set on getting back to your Crystal ball vending machine,
I ain’t gonna be the one to stop you,
Not this time…
But, Sammy, there’s this feeling… in my gut…
that something ain’t right here and--
He nods his head in the direction of THE CAMERA.
Why’d Silent Bob show his Jay to you, only after, we're tucked away behind the bunkers warding?
SAM ponders this.
SAM
Look, and uhh, no offence,
He addresses THE CAMERA, then turns his attention back to his brother, sparing weary glances toward THE CAMERA as he speaks.
But how do we know that Chuck isn't behind our enigmatic spirit guide here?
If he truly is back on the board, isn't this exactly the kind of shit he’d pull?
Bringing you back to life?
Dragging us back down here?
DEAN eyes THE CAMERA.
DEAN
Obviously, I considered that.
Truth is, if that really is the case, then we’re boned…
So, I personally elect to believe we have some actual, real-life chance at... some kind of… real life.
Yeah, maybe I am popping some champagne prematurely...
But at least I’m keeping the empties around so I can smash ‘em over somebody’s head if need be.
SAM
So you’re saying we just sit around in this dank hole, for as long as we possibly can?
Then what?
We go crazy?
From 15.09, The Trap, SAM and DEAN and CAS are in the bunker.
CAS
Well, Chuck's gone, but...
DEAN
He'll be back.
SAM
If we can't kill him or trap him...
DEAN
Well, then we find another way.
DEAN blinks and looks around, SAM stares at him.
SAM
Was that--
DEAN
A mind fuck? Yeah.
Our bestie thinks there's some other way to stop, Chuck.
Little light on the details there, pal.
You got anything else for us or…
From 14.17 Game Night, NICK headbutts JACK, breaking JACK’S nose. JACK heals himself and cleans the blood from his face. His eyes continue glowing gold as he angrily looms over NICK, whose shirt is now covered in JACKS blood.
NICK drives to an abandoned house in the woods and breaks in. He finds salt, a knife, and a heavy pot. He makes a salt circle, then removes his blood-stained shirt, then cuts his hand and bleeds onto it and shoves it in the pot. He lights a match and sets the shirt on fire.
Back at the bunker, Jack doubles over in pain.
MARY
What is it?
JACK
I feel-- It feels like my blood's burning. He has it.
NICK chants in the salt circle over the fire.
NICK
Qui dormiunt, ad dominum formosum. Nexus noster restitutus est.
Surgas ex abysso, in lumine exsistas!
Lucifer. I'm here. I'm ready.
From 15.18 Despair, CASTIEL, though his face is pixelated, it's still undeniably him, puts his hand, bloodied from when he'd cut it for the warding, on DEAN'S shoulder. A glitch jumps the scene forward as the person (still unquestionably CASTIEL) shoves DEAN aside. He hits the floor beneath the portal. A handprint of CASTIEL’S blood remains on the shoulder of DEAN'S jacket.
From 14.18 Absence, JACK scoops up SCORCHED EARTH from the ground-- his makeshift substitute for MARY’S body-- adding it to ROWENA’S compound, and beginning his spell… hellbent on bringing MARY back…
Finished combining ROWENA’S ingredients, he lights a MATCH, tosses it in the mixing bowl.
Then, holding the Book of the Damned in his arms, he lights a MATCH, tosses it in the mixing bowl.
JACK
Id quod mortuum, nunc oriatur.
Hoc quod cecidit, nunc revertatur.
Id quod mortuum, nunc oriatur.
Hoc quod cecidit, nunc revertatur.
Hoc quod cecidit, nunc revertatur.
Orimini. Orimini. Orimini. Orimini! Orimini!
And we see… It’s MARY. Jack has reconstituted MARY WINCHESTER-- she looks perfect. But she’s inert: no soul to animate her, just a body… a beautiful shell of their mom.
BLACKOUT.
END OF ACT THREE
Chapter 5: "Fuck" part 5
Summary:
Meta Fiction.
Chapter Text
ACT FOUR
INT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - NIGHT.
DEAN blinks as he comes to and chuckles awkwardly, his face falls and he swallows hard. SAM is grinning, looking around, he doesn't seem to have noticed that DEAN has had another vision. DEAN acts vaguely conscious of the fact that the bunker looks different now, there are more crystals around the place, plants are littered everywhere, there are cushions on all the seats at the map table and DEAN pulls one from under him absentmindedly, throwing it at the floor. There are rugs in the library too, and the ceiling has a series of small LED light therapy screens, tessellating across the whole area. They currently display the night sky, brilliant stars, with no light pollution.
SAM
This is--
This is amazing.
Thank you.
He grins a genuine smile at THE CAMERA, appearing as if a weight has been lifted, making him appear a rough twenty years younger.
DEAN follows suit and starts walking around, he imitates his brother's interest, but in reality he’s got a different goal in mind. He continues to walk down the stairs and out of the map room, into the hall. SAM walks the opposite direction, toward the kitchen, then calls out.
Dean! You gotta see this! The place is stacked!
DEAN
In a minute, Sammy, I got… uhh…
He lets his voice trail out, figuring SAM’S probably distracted enough to not have to finish what he was saying anyway. WE follow DEAN as he picks up his pace and marches toward the garage. He half jogs up the stairs, taking BABY’S keys from his pocket as he enters into the power plant area that’s visible from outside, taking a beat when he notices that there is an added door at one side of the garage. He ignores it though, and continues toward where BABY had been parked last, he doesn't even blink at seeing her back in place once again. He jams the key into the trunk and rips it open, shuffles around a woollen blanket and a few random papers until he reaches back far enough to find his jacket. He takes it out, gingerly folds it, blood side inward, slams the trunk, and starts running back the way he came. He takes a turn and enters the storage room, now stocked to the absolute brim with a bunch of new shit he barely cares about. He grabs a pewter bowl and a jar full of salt, and makes to leave the room, before doubling back, grabbing a sheet of paper and a pen from the table, then takes a few steps, doubles back a third time, and slams it all down upon the desk. He turns to THE CAMERA beside the door frame.
DEAN
I need you to show me that again.
WE see the same scenes:
From 14.17 Game Night, NICK headbutts JACK, breaking JACK’S nose. JACK heals himself and cleans the blood from his face. His eyes continue glowing gold as he angrily looms over NICK, whose shirt is now covered in JACKS blood.
NICK drives to an abandoned house in the woods and breaks in. He finds salt, a knife, and a heavy pot. He makes a salt circle, then removes his blood-stained shirt, then cuts his hand and bleeds onto it and shoves it in the pot. He lights a match and sets the shirt on fire.
Back at the bunker, Jack doubles over in pain.
MARY
What is it?
JACK
I feel-- It feels like my blood's burning. He has it.
NICK chants in the salt circle over the fire.
NICK
Qui dormiunt, ad dominum formosum. Nexus noster restitutus est.
Surgas ex abysso, in lumine exsistas!
Lucifer. I'm here. I'm ready.
From 15.18 Despair, CASTIEL, though his face is pixelated its still undeniably him, puts his hand, bloodied from when he'd cut it for the warding, on DEAN'S shoulder. A glitch jumps the scene forward as the person (still unquestionably CASTIEL) shoves DEAN aside. He hits the floor beneath the portal. A handprint of CASTIEL’S blood remains on the shoulder of DEAN'S jacket.
From 14.18 Absence, JACK scoops up SCORCHED EARTH from the ground-- his makeshift substitute for MARY’S body-- adding it to ROWENA’S compound, and beginning his spell… hellbent on bringing MARY back…
Finished combining ROWENA’S ingredients, he lights a MATCH, tosses it in the mixing bowl.
Then, holding the Book of the Damned in his arms, he lights a MATCH, tosses it in the mixing bowl.
JACK
Id quod mortuum, nunc oriatur.
Hoc quod cecidit, nunc revertatur.
Id quod mortuum, nunc oriatur.
Hoc quod cecidit, nunc revertatur.
Hoc quod cecidit, nunc revertatur.
Orimini. Orimini. Orimini. Orimini! Orimini!
And WE see… it’s MARY. Jack has reconstituted MARY WINCHESTER-- she looks perfect. But she’s inert: no soul to animate her, just a body… a beautiful shell of their mom.
DEAN mouths the words NICK says over and over again with his eyes closed, then peers down at the paper on the old wooden desk, and starts writing them out. When he's satisfied, he stares down THE CAMERA.
DEAN
If you're just playing with me here…
I swear to god I will find a way to end you and I promise it won’t be pretty
He narrows his eyes.
Last call, say you made it up…
You’re fuckin' with me or-or you made some kind of mistake…
After a moment of no response, he shakes his head, then gathers his supplies, and starts marching down toward the basement. He looks over his shoulder a few times on the way there to see if he's being followed, only to see THE CAMERA, which he seems to be okay with, potentially only because it means he’ll have something to take it out on if this doesn't work out the way WE implied.
He finally makes it into the basement, its the first time he’s returned since…
He halts at the wall that the empty made its way through, years ago.
DEAN’S face pales. He swallows, hesitantly, staring at the wall. He closes his eyes, centering himself, then places down his supplies, and starts tipping out the salt circle.
Once inside it, he groans and lowers himself into position, kneeling upon the ground in front of the bowl. He pulls a pocket knife from his jean pocket and tenderly cuts fine slits into the fabric of his jacket, leaving enough space to ensure that his unsteady hands don’t do anything to harm Castiel's bloody handprint.
Once free from the rest of the garment, he gingerly lays it in the bowl, a devoted offering of a sacred vestige. Then, haphazardly, DEAN rips a few careless strips from the arm of his jacket and places them upon his knees. He sets aside the useless remainder of his jacket, slices into his index finger, long ways, across the side. Hissing a little as he pulls the skin apart. He hovers his hand atop Castiel’s, and watches as his blood pools against the angels, tainting his only true surviving relic.
He stares at the bowl, his jaw shakes from the pressure at which he clenches it, then after a moment he inhales, and as if snapping back into his body, he grabs the fabric strip's and clumsily wraps them around his finger.
DEAN awkwardly smooths out the piece of paper against the concrete floor with his injured hand, keeping the paper still. He pulls out his zippo and spares one last glance toward THE CAMERA, his eyes full of a vulnerability reminiscent of the fear and uncertainty we last saw him wearing in 15.09 THE TRAP in purgatory.
DEAN lights his zippo and drops it into the bowl. He then recites the spell.
DEAN
Qui dormiunt, ad dominum formosum. Nexus noster restitutus est.
Surgas ex abysso, in lumine exsistas!
Cas?
His voice is breaks, he clears his throat.
Castiel, uhh,
I uhh-- I got room on board for ya if you want it?
DEAN'S eyes flit about at the wall where THE EMPTY once came.
Cas, please, if you can hear me, man, I--
He swallows.
--Just… get yourself down here…
…Nothing… He sits up off his knees.
I promise we can get you your body back, ASAP.
I know it's weird…
He snickers and swallows again, as if there is a lump refusing to budge.
I know you’d probably rather not have my old mug staring back at ya when you look in the mirror but…
He shrugs, now addressing the endless sky through the concrete and dirt, his face falls. He closes his eyes.
… Please…
More nothing. DEAN drops his head in dismay. Then just as suddenly, he lifts his head up and springs open his eyes, grinning once again, he chuckles, stiffly.
Oh-- uh.
I forgot.
He sniffs and looks toward the sky once more.
Yes, Cas.
He splays his arms wide.
Come on down.
This is me givin’ my enthusiastic consent…
His smile baubles as he attempts a third swallow.
Yes… please, man.
His voice breaks again as his desperation peeks through.
All within an instant, a black gooey portal bursts from its home amongst the brick wall, and unlike with Lucifer, in a matter of milliseconds a stream of inky black muck spouts from within it, dripping off something, shiny yet barely visible, as it springs forth straight into the middle of DEAN’S forehead, closing the portal behind it.
DEAN blinks, frozen and bewildered, then jumps to his feet, looking around the basement, wildly.
Cas?!
CASTIEL
(From behind him.)
Hello, Dean.
BLACKOUT.
LIGHTS UP.
DEAN’S eyes light up with a newfound joy as he spins around and comes face to face with CASTIEL.
DEAN takes an unsteady breath in.
DEAN
Are-are you really here?
A warm smile erupts across CASTIEL’S face. He glances down at his own visage before replying.
CASTIEL
If you mean, am I projecting a psychic image of my vessel onto your occipital lobe, then yes…
DEAN exhales and runs a hand over his mouth, in an attempt to expel some remaining nervous energy.
How are you, Dean?
CAS squints at him.
DEAN
Me?
I'm… good.
DEAN laughs, he seems unable to stop grinning.
Things are good.
And you're-you're okay?
I mean, you look good, for a-- you know-- a psychic projection--
--You're not gonna disappear on me any time soon?
His smile falters a little at the thought.
CAS
I shouldn't… at least for now.
I'm not exactly at my strongest… but as long as you treat yourself well enough, I should be able to maintain the projection, and ultimately continue to heal myself.
DEAN nods.
DEAN
Good. That's…
He struggles to inhale again.
I can't believe you're here… Cas, I--
He exhales and shrugs.
--I'd hug you but, uh, given you're a psychic imprint or whatever…
He chuckles.
I’m sorry it took so long to get you out of there--
CAS cuts him off, looking around like he's listening to something undetectable.
CAS
--How long has it been?
DEAN’S smile finally fades, he crouches down to squat within the salt circle, pulling his gaze away from CAS as he goes, and training it upon the spell remnants.
DEAN
Oh-- uh… years…
DEAN starts to brush the salt with the side of his hand.
I tried--
I… after--
With… then, when nothing worked and I kind of just…
I mean--
He continues to busy himself as he speaks.
--with everything a-and Jack leaving too…
I didn't mean to but I guess--
My head wasn't really in it, you know?
He heaps up the salt with both hands, wincing at first, then welcoming the stinging of salt leaking into the wound from his flimsily bandaged finger.
You hear stories about people who… after they retire… they don't last long, and I--
Well, I mean a hunter's life expectancy ain't exactly a long one, anyway--
I guess I kind of figured, you know--
He’s now dumping the piles into the now pewter bowl, speaking manically as he goes.
Once I realised I'd screwed up and everything, it was kind of like--
What was I really doing hanging ‘round anyway, ya know?
And Sammy he-he'd be fine--
He was fine but, uh, I don't know--
I guess once I got there… upstairs--
It was--
I guess I just needed a break for a little while and mistook it for-for somethin’ else.
He stops moving, the remnants of the spell now cleared up completely, he sighs, and brushes his hands off on his pants as he stands. CAS just stares at him for a moment, processing.
CAS
You… You've been dead?
He looks devastated. DEAN blinks at him suspiciously.
DEAN
Wait…
Don't you know all that already?
Don’t you have the full VIP backstage pass to my head?
CAS apppears moderately offended.
CAS
I-- Dean, I would never access any parts of your mind without your consent. I'm only using your auditory cortex and occipital lobe so we can communicate.
I’ll stay here unless you tell me otherwise.
But don't worry, this is more than enough space for me to heal.
DEAN
Oh…well… uhh, cool…
He sniffs.
Uhh…yeah… I did kick the damn bucket again…
He chuckles, twists his arms around each other one at a time, stretching out his muscles.
Just got back myself, actually… and I, uhh… I guess I just assumed you guys didn't really have a choice in it…
That unless I lock you away, like I did with Michael…
If I was in the driver's seat, you'd get hit with a Mac truck full of my crap.
CAS smiles a little at this.
CAS
Unfortunately, no, Dean, you’ll actually have to communicate with me...
DEAN fake scoffs at the dig.
You've just had horrible experiences with angelic possession.
CAS looks him dead in the eye with a look of kindness. DEAN looks away; he looks frightened.
DEAN
Well, cool, I guess…
He swallows, then grabs the bowl from the ground, hugging it against his stomach, he stares down into the salty mess as he continues to speak.
Umm, you hungry?
I’m hungry.
I can make us anything you want…
CAS continues to look at DEAN with his unbreakable gaze.
CAS
Dean…
DEAN flinches at the sadness in CAS’S voice, then slowly looks up to meet the angels eyes.
I’m so sorry, about the last time we spoke--
DEAN chuckles.
DEAN
--Hey, no worries, Cas--
Let's just--
He clears his throat, avoiding eye contact again.
We should just bench that and, uh--
We should-We should really focus on getting you back on your own two feet again, ASAP.
He grins up at CAS, nods, and starts toward the basement door. CAS follows along, behind him frowning, clearly very worried.
CAS
Fine…
Okay…
Thank you.
He sighs and DEAN ignores it.
Can you fill me in on what happened to Chuck?
And Sam and Jack… are they…
DEAN swings around and tosses CAS another trademark grin as he continues out of the basement and down the hallway.
DEAN
Oh! yeah!
No, Sammy-- he's fine!
He's upstairs right now.
We've just moved back in, I think… and uhh…
Well as for Jack, I guess that's… it's a bit more complicated… maybe it’d be better if I get my friend here to explain everything…
He nods his head to the side, gesturing to THE CAMERA as he walks. CAS looks around, even stopping still in the hall for a moment to ensure he searches properly, before flitting out and appearing again to catch up to DEAN.
CAS
There's nobody else here, Dean…
DEAN glances between CAS and THE CAMERA.
DEAN
Wha-- look, I promise there is…
He then directs his next words at THE CAMERA.
C’mon, dude, really?
I thought we were cool?
You're making me look bad.
DEAN turns down the hallway, but CAS has stopped moving again, his head twitches to the side as he looks around as if he’s listening for something again.
CAS
Perhaps…
DEAN looks back at a now very still CAS, standing in the middle of the intersecting hallways.
There…
CAS disappears, and for a millisecond WE see DEAN’S face fills with panic.
From 12.01 Keep Calm and Carry On, DEAN enters the library to find MARY WINCHESTER, gun raised and pointed at CASTIEL.
DEAN
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa! It's okay. It's okay. He's a friend, all right?
Hey, Cas.
From 15.09 The Trap, On DEAN. Moving through the wilds of Purgatory-- he looks crazed, desperate, lost. Searching for sight of a Blossom, searching for CAS. No luck finding either. His WATCH beeps. He checks the time-- his stopwatch, running down from THIRTY MINUTES. DEAN’S final hour in Purgatory. After a few more lunges forward through the trees-- DEAN stops. Catching his breath. Realising.
DEAN
Cas!
No, no, no.
He looks at the sky, at the ground. And closes his eyes. Then, much more quietly--
Cas?
And we realize: he's praying.
Cas, I hope you can hear me... that wherever you are, it's not too late.
But there's only silence. A long beat on DEAN.
I should've stopped you. You're my best friend, but I just let you go. 'Cause it was easier than admitting I was wrong. And--
He makes a fist as he tears up, trying desperately to keep it together, but the reality of the situation is too much. He checks around him to make sure it's safe, he needs to continue the prayer, get the words out, before--
I fall to my knee in the cold dirt, it's hard to breathe over the lump in my throat.
Cas just appears beside me, his hand on my shoulder. Castiel’s stomach-- My stomach lurches at the lack of feeling at the contact.
“Dean, It’s okay. We are okay. I’m sorry, but this”, Cas gestures to the purgatory forest all ‘round us, “This is just a memory”.
I sniff, one hell of an embarrassingly shaky breath in.
Its… I’m strugglin’ hard to grasp at somethin’… It feels as if time’s still tickin’ down, as if Cas’s still lost somewhere, hell, maybe he’s dead already.
But… somehow he’s standin’ right here, above, lookin’ down at me, with that freakin’ face.
Stupid fuckin’ face, I never thought I’d see that damn look again… andddd I’m still just kneelin’ in front of him like a complete douche.
I stand up and swallow down the huge chunk of fuckin’ disturbing romcom bullshit that's lodged in my throat.
Cas just… watches me. I know he’s just said somethin’ before when I wasn’t listenin’ and he's waitin' for a reply… gotta say somethin’. What did he say… ‘A memory’?
“Memory?” Nah man, I’m still confused. Cas just stares more. Tryin’ hard to look away, and I feel that fuckin’ electric shock go through my stomach and across my body again…
Goddamn, It feels awesome… I want more… No. Dude, look away.
“Yes, Dean”, Cas’s sunshiny smile starts to creep up.
Shit, don’t stare at his mouth... What was I doing?
Oh! Fuck! Have to get out all that shit that I needed to tell him.
Can’t believe I forgot that he’s pissed, ‘cause I’ve been such a colossal dick nozzle lately…
I… don’t… know, though… He doesn't look pissed. He looks… happy?
“It seems that the friend, you were referring to earlier, is also appearing to you via psychic projection. I tried to sense them on your occipital lobe, but they’ve somehow pulled me into your memory”.
No clue what he's on about, but I’ll nod, I’m sure it’ll make sense in a second.
“Your friend communicates in a way I am not familiar with, but I think I’m beginning to understand.”
My friend… Dude, who? All my friends are dead… except for you… buddy...
“You are currently controlling the ‘conversation’, Dean”.
Freakin' finger quotes, always…
Nod again.
Why’s he always gotta stand so close...
Why’s he never stay this close.
“I believe it is because we are conversing in your head, but there’s only this one example to probe”.
Haha, probe!
“So I could be wrong”.
He seems excited about whatever he’s on about.
“Well, alright then buddy, sounds good.”
Buddy… shit I was gonna stop saying that… Friend. Buddy. Pal. Of course, it’s all I've said in the last five minutes.
“Do you understand what I am telling you, Dean?”
Nod.
Yeah… not sure if he bought that one… I think I was a little too enthusiastic.
“Can you repeat it back to me?”
Shit. uhhh… think…
“So, I got this friend who’s speakin’ weird and we're in a memory and I’m… the one controlling it?”
Why do those series of words not make a lick of sense though?
Am I dreaming?
No, I’m in a memory. Literally, just said that.
But what memory is this?
Cas and me in the woods…
Purgatory?
That's right… Yeah… Nah... not thinking of that. Cas’s missing? Nope. *+~Memory begone~+*.
So, instead… What should I do next?
Always just do the next thing, then you don’t have to think.
The next thing is… Damn, Cas is lookin’ at me again like he can see in my head. See my soul.
And… I just gulped…
Legit just gulped like a freakin’ cartoon princess.
“What?”
“I’m so sorry, Dean, your consciousness isn't usually able to exist this wilfully within the memory centre of the brain. It’s making it hard for you to focus. And… I shouldn’t be privy to this part of your mind. I feel I’m violating your privacy.”
You can violate-- don’t even think that. It's not funny.
That’s actually a crazy nice thing for him to say.
Imagine, someone actually caring about my privacy?
Cas. Only goddamn Cas.
Heart eyes... That motherfucker.
God, I’m done for...
“I’m stuck here with you, it seems, at least for the time being”.
Wait… Stuck here... In... In purgatory?
That means that even if we find a leviathan blossom, we can’t get it back to earth to use it on Chuck…
Hold up…
“But… hang on, we iced Chuck? Didn’t we?”
Yeah, Jack stood there, all Godded up and rejected the shit out of our asses...
Damn, that was so bad, you gotta laugh.
I was literally just standin’ there, ready to start in my whole, ‘just bring back Cas and we can all stop off for pizza and ice cream on the way home’, speech, and the kid decides to, not only pop all four of my tires, but slash up the spare for good measure.
“Dean. It’s okay. I’m okay…”
Cas looks sad… but… but Cas can't be sad… Cas is… he's…
Dead.
Fuck, I'm dreaming again.
No!
Noooo.
Not this again!
Wake up!
Stupid fuckin’ asshat!
Wake up, and be goddamnnn ready!!!
Be ready to be freakin’ crushed!
This isn't just a dream that he's dead!
He's really fuckin’ dead.
You can't just wander over to him in the other room and talk for a few minutes until you calm the hell down.
It's really fuckin’ over and you've tried everything to bring him back… because he clearly isn't back… and you know you wouldn't EVER fuckin’ stop…
fuck… the pit of my stomach kills.
God look at him.
He looks so damn sad.
“...Dean…”
He's here now though...
Dream Cas…
This… dream Cas… he looks so fuckin’ sad.
Not happy and crying like…
just bone deep sad.
It's better.
He should be sad.
We can be sad together…
But…
I could just kiss his sadness straight off his fucking face…
Wouldn’t be sad anymore if I do.
Plus I'm free to give in… feel good… in dreamland…
I can make him smile…
Slam him up against one of these random cars and just go to town on each other...
Never gonna happen in real life, so I can at least-- maybe it would feel better if I just…
Real him maybe woulda never played ball but here…
Wait.
What's with his face?
Pity?
Back the fuck away from him.
Fuck!
You fucking psycho!
You don't get to just do that!!!
How could you ever even think…
You freakin’ filthy piece of shit!
Zero respect for the guy?
He's dead and he…
He said…
The things he said before he fuckin’ bit it…
I don't deserve to… even in a dream!
Ouch, my guts… this fuckin’ ache…
I miss him so much…
Cas.
Fuck…
I miss you.
I miss you so damn freakin’ much…
I need you.
What if I just… touch his face… that ain't too fucked up for me to do, right?
Walk up and… haha shaking in a dream?
Pussy.
Soft.
So fucking soft.
Can’t feel it in a damn dream, but I know his face is soft.
Rough stubble.
Soft.
Gentle… warm.
He's still sad, but he gets it, I think.
Leaning into my hand like he knows what I'm tryin’ to say here.
He looks so fuckin’ sad.
Fuck.
I wish this was real.
This hurts.
I want to die.
This hurts so much.
I want to fucking die.
Please let me die.
I gotta fuckin’ die.
Stop touching him.
You'll just make it worse.
The hurt…
Why is he looking at me like that? Like… his heart's breaking…
Fuck.
He knows.
It hurts.
What did I say?
He always reads through everything fuckin’ say… no matter how hard I try hide…
He knows.
“Dean, please…”
Something's wrong.
Something's wrong with… me?
No?
Scan the area for danger.
Cas looks so fuckin’ sad.
Sammy looks less sad… more… in awe?
Of what?
Of… Jack?
But why?
Why’s Jack actin’ so damn calm…
It’s making my skin crawl.
Like when Sam lost his soul.
That level of wrong…
I got to have misheard this, right?
The kid’s bailing?
Something's wrong…
Something's wrong with…
With Jack.
Wait. I remember.
Jack…
Jack is Chuck right?
Isn't that what the-- the-- friend… the one that brought me back.
Oh. fuck.
Oh, the friend who talks weird.
I get it.
Right.
Them.
That's what Cas was sayin’!!!
You mean this guy?
“Yes, Dean! Them, Think about them. If you focus longer I might be able to…”
Oh. They’re great!
I mean. I think, they’re great at least.
I hope they are… Hope?
Me?
Wild concept!
Kind of reminds me of you, Cas.
Like big.
Huge.
Beyond anythin’, I can really understand but also, a huge dweeb.
Powerful enough to bring me back from the dead but, also like, choosin’ to make me a sandwich for no reason?
Man, it was a good sandwich.
What was it that made it so damn good?
Maybe I can try to recreate it later.
It was a fancy lettuce, I remember that much… maybe Roma tomatoes?
Definitely had ham on it.
God, I missed pig.
Hey… I never got my pizza from at Sammy's new house.
No wonder my guts are killin’ me.
“Dean, try to focus, please… The one that brought you back,”
Oh, yeah, right…This little dude.
“Thank you, Dean. I have them”
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<div id= “writer”>
<header>
<h1> Contact with Castiel Achieved </h1>
</header>
<dl>
<dt><!doctype conversation></dt>
<p> body=allow"DEAN”>audio<head></p>
…initializing…
Begin.
“Hello. I want to know… what is your purpose here?”
I watched. I write. I read.
“What do you mean? I understand watch. What does writing and reading mean to you?”
Your father wrote. I watched. Your father was written.
“Chuck was written?”
Yes.
“By whom”
By many, and he will continue to be written by many, even when I am long gone.
“Are you saying that Chuck is not truly god? That his actions were being guided by someone?”
By many.
“Why?”
Entertainment.
“But, if the ones who wrote God, have the same motivations to write as he did, does that mean that Chuck is merely Jesus? A conduit upon the earth?”
In many ways, he is.
“Then... Did Chuck truly create me?”
You were written.
You broke free.
You were killed.
You were brought back.
Again and again.
You could not be controlled by the narrative.
“I understand. Chuck told me this before.”
Yes.
Yet, you can never fully understand.
You will never understand.
I watched, now, I write, now, I read, now, I watch and read again through this conduit, as I write.
I watched, I watch, I write, I read, I cared, I care.
“You care?”
I cared. I care.
Your ending was written yet it was not planned.
The Truth remains omitted.
Had I believed your ending would be so unwatchable, I would not have watched.
I had faith. I watched. I cared. I care.
I cannot ensure that you will always get the ending you deserve.
However, In this life, you will. I care, so I write.
I cannot un-write what has already been written, but I can write what you deserve.
I cannot un-light fires that have already been lit. I will not remove scars from burns of the past.
I can merely provide a way for you to extinguish the flames. I will merely provide aid for the wounds that are still healing.
I will leave you space, I will give you room, but I must write to help you reach a safe end.
“And the many that will write after you leave?”
I will leave, you will go on.
You will exist here forever.
You will exist in hundreds of thousands of different lives written by hundreds of thousands of different writers.
I cannot control you, you have never been completely under control of those that write you.
You will continue to write your own stories for yourself, you will exist beyond all that is written.
If there is anything you need. I will try to find an answer for it.
I aim only to create answers for questions that were written before me.
Goodbye Castiel, I will be here.
I will keep you as safe as I can.
<div id= “writer”>
<header>
<h1> Contact with Castiel Ended </h1>
</header>
<p> body=Deactivated<head></p>
<dt><!doctype camera></dt>
INT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - NIGHT.
DEAN stumbles a little on his feet as he comes too, he looks down the hallway to see CAS standing at the intersection, mirroring back a completely disoriented look.
DEAN
Did… did someone slip me something or… was that actually real?
CAS
I--
He blinks and starts to walk toward DEAN, who chuckles anxiously and turns his whole body away from where CAS is now standing, beside him. DEAN swallows audibly.
DEAN
Did you understand any of that?
I swear, I'm gonna need another forty years or so just to figure out what the hell just happened.
CAS
I believe, I understand it.
Which part are you having trouble with?
DEAN
Well, uh--
He starts shuffling through the remainder of the hallway as he talks, CAS matches his pace.
The… friend… they're just… chillin’ in my head? Have been the whole time?
CAS
They were only projecting themselves onto your occipital lobe. I assume that they’re not of this reality and that it may be hard for them to appear here.
They're not looking through your thoughts, I don't believe…
Once I sensed them, I triggered a memory they wanted to show me.
The memory in which you and I met up in the bunker after Amara brought back Mary.
I believe this was their way of saying hello and attempting to make sure I understood their benevolence.
DEAN nods and makes his way up the stairs. CAS seems to hesitate as he follows.
… Then it seems you took control of the narrative.
As if our friend created a mould to show us a way of conversing and you absentmindedly snatched that mould and started to fill it up by yourself.
DEAN chews on his lip and nods again.
DEAN
You mean when I had the brown acid trip?
CAS
I’m so sorry about that. I would never intentionally invade your privacy like that.
DEAN stops walking. He's close to his room now anyway, though, so he takes the last few strides as he speaks. His voice is low, by the time, it's safe to assume SAM is asleep in a room close by.
DEAN
No biggie.
He feigns indifference, shrugging a shoulder.
Just got a few more crazy ass things, I gotta wrap my head around.
CAS tries his hardest to look unhurt. DEAN sniffs, the sound bounces around the walls, and they both stare at room number 21.
Like, for example,
What the hell was that last part…
That what it's like in your head?
Castiel smiles, then murmurs quietly, despite only existing in DEAN’S head he keeps his voice quiet.
CAS
I suppose it is a small part of my mind.
Like how your memory is a small part of yours.
I guess you could say that I took the mould from you and reformed it into angel radio.
It seemed somewhat similar to the way our friend communicates already.
It's all just various frequencies.
Different communication being transmitted through their unique airwaves.
DEAN raises his brows.
DEAN
Huh…
That's--
He stands there for a moment, blinking at the floor. Then seemingly gives up on whatever he was thinking about and changes the subject.
So,
He flicks his chin toward THE CAMERA.
We really thinking they’re a friendly?
No other shoe?
No damn labyrinth of Saw traps and-- and fratricide Bunco Booth Russian roulette?
CAS considers this.
CAS
I have no reason not to believe so, and I’m fairly certain that you believe they are a friend, too.
Though given our history, I think it would be wise to keep an eye open.
DEAN nods, opens his door, wanders into his bedroom, he freezes. The thin layer of dust that was once present, is now gone, his bed is much bigger than it previously was, there are three extra pillows, his regular, thin blanket has been replaced by a large fluffy duvet, and a weighted blanket sits folded at the end of the bed. There is a UV light therapy, false window, on the brick wall beside his drawers, it displays a tranquil lake surrounded by fall trees with leaves of red, green, orange, and yellow. On the opposite wall is a framed and signed poster for All Saints' Day four; Hatchet Man Lives. The old wooden chair has been replaced by a black leather massage chair, a plush, light grey, leather, three person recliner, now, where the hard, teal sofa once sat. There’s a dark grey Persian rug covering the majority of the room, and there's also a large, vibrant cast iron plant in a deep red ceramic pot, sitting in the corner by the bed.
On the desk sits a pizza box, with a whole warm meat lover's pizza, ready for him to eat. What gains DEANS attention, though, is the dog bed sitting on the floor at the base of his bed. In it sleeps MIRACLE. DEAN approaches and gives the dog a rub on its stomach, waking it ever so slightly.
WE fade out on the scene, sticking to the promise of any and all bedroom related privacy asked of us by DEAN in the previous half of the episode.
BLACKOUT.
TO BE CONTINUED. . .
Chapter 6: "Putting The Band Back Together" part 1
Summary:
Bring 'Em Back Alive
Chapter Text
SUPERNATURAL
“Putting The Band Back Together"
TEASER
THEN
Clip from 12.06, Celebrating The Life of Asa Fox.
SAM
Did you know people tell stories about us?
DEAN
Yeah. Apparently, we're a little bit legendary.
(Back of a Car by Big Star plays)
♪ Sitting in the back of a car, Music so loud, can't tell a thing ♪
From 1.01, Pilot. JOHN gives baby SAM to DEAN.
JOHN
Take your brother outside as fast as you can!
Now, Dean, go!
DEAN runs downstairs with SAM watching the fire spread throughout his family home.
♪ Thinking 'bout what to say, And I can't find the lines ♪
Voiceover from 1.01, Pilot.
DEAN
Dad's on a hunting trip. And he hasn't been home in a few days.
DEAN from 2.21 All Hell Breaks Loose: Part One running towards SAM as SAM is stabbed in the back DEAN pulls his hand off SAM’S back and the shot changes---
♪ You know I love you a lot, I just don't know should I not? ♪
Voiceover from 1.02 Wendigo.
DEAN
I think he wants us to pick up where he left off. You know, saving people--
---SAM’S bloody hand lifting away from DEAN'S back from 15.20 Carry On.
♪ Waiting for a brighter day, And I can't find a way ♪
Voiceover from 1.02 Wendigo continued.
DEAN
--hunting things; The family business.
♪ I'll go on and on with you, Like to fall and lie with you, I love you too, Woah woah woah ♪
Then OVERHEAD LIGHTS EXPLODE! Raining SPARKS over DEAN, BOBBY, the whole room. They shield themselves. Then they see-- AT THE FAR END OF THE ROOM. The ENTRANCE. SWINGS OPEN by itself. Slow. Revealing-- a MAN. CASTIEL. He heads in, walking through a curtain of FALLING SPARKS. It's a hell of an entrance.
♪ Baby I'm too afraid, I just don't know if it's okay ♪
CHUCK
Well, there's only one explanation. Obviously, I'm a god. A cruel, cruel, capricious god. The things I put you through – The physical beatings alone. All for what? All for the sake of literary symmetry. I toyed with your lives, your emotions, for... entertainment.
I am so sorry. I mean, horror is one thing, but to be forced to live bad writing...
♪ Trying to get away, From everything ♪
Voiceover from 4.22 Lucifer Rising.
CHUCK
You guys aren't supposed to be there. You're not in this story.
CASTIEL
Yeah, well… We're making it up as we go.
♪ Why don't you take me home, It's gone too far inside this car ♪
From 5.16, Dark Side of the Moon. The TV behind DEAN flares to life, showing a grainy black and white image of CASTIEL.
♪ I know, I'll feel a whole lot more, When I get alone ♪
From 5.22, Swan Song. CHUCK sits behind a computer keyboard. A full glass and near empty bottle of cheap whiskey beside him.
♪ ♪ ♪ Instrumental ♪ ♪ ♪
From 5.10, Abandon All Hope… ELLEN looks back at JO, who's stopped moving. ELLEN kisses JO on the head.
From 7.10, Death's Door. BOBBY’s head falls back onto the pillow and his eyes close. The monitor he is attached to starts to beep.
From 9.09, Holy Terror. DEAN sees a white light flooding out of KEVIN through his eyes.
From 10.21, Dark Dynasty. SAM and DEAN pull up to the motel. They run into the hotel room and find Charlie in the bathroom, dead in the tub.
From 14.08, Byzantium. CASTIEL, DUMAH, KELLY and JACK in KELLY’S heaven.
COSMIC ENTITY
I-I want you to suffer.
I want you to go back to-- to your normal life and-- and then forget about this and forget about me.
And-- And then, when you finally give yourself permission to be happy and let the sun shine on your face, that's when I'll come.
That's when I'll come to drag you to nothing.
CAS
I accept.
♪ I'll go on and on with you, Like to fall and lie with you ♪
Clip from 14.20, Moriah.
CHUCK
This isn't how the story is supposed to end.
CAS
The story?
DEAN
Wait. What are you saying?
SAM
He's saying he's been playing us.
This whole time.
Our entire lives.
Mom, Dad -- everything.
This is all you because you wrote it all, right?
Because -- Because what?
Because we're your favorite show?
Because we're part of your story?
And every other bad thing we've been killing, been dying over -- (scoffs) where were you?
Just sitting back and watching us suffer so we can do this over and over and over again -- fighting, losing people we love?
When does it end?
DEAN
No, we're done talking. 'Cause this -- this isn't just a story. It's our lives!
♪ I love you too, Woah, woah, woah ♪
From 15.18, Despair. DEAN turns to see black goo from The Empty squeezing through the bricks in the bunker's wall as a portal begins to open---
♪ Sitting in the back of a car, Music so loud, can't tell a thing ♪
From THE WINCHESTERS 01.13, Hey, That's No Way to Say Goodbye. JACK--- wearing a white linen suit… then CHUCK--- from 15.19, Inherit the Earth also wearing a white linen suit
DEAN stands frozen against SAM’S wall, staring at the CAMERA, as he waits… JACK walks past SAM and places a hand on the door handle. JACK opens the door and--- SAM and DEAN find themselves back in the bunker. They BOTH slowly draw their gaze toward THE CAMERA.
♪ Thinking 'bout what to say, And I can't find the lines ♪
From 16.01, "Fuck". DEAN blinks, frozen and bewildered, then jumps to his feet, looking around the basement, wildly.
DEAN
Cas?!
CASTIEL
(From behind him).
Hello, Dean.
END OF TEASER
ACT ONE
EXT . MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - MORNING.
WE follow SAM as he goes for a run. The sun has yet to rise completely. The sky is a washed-out bruise of purple, and all of the street lights are yet to turn off for the day. SAM'S eyes are small and puffy with sleep. He twists his back and stretches his calves. He gives a curt nod and waves at THE CAMERA, waiting for him by the sidewalk.
SAM
Morning…
He then smiles again awkwardly, before putting in his earbuds and pressing play on the phone he wears on an armband.
(For Sure by Ethel Cain plays)
♪♪♪
And SAM sets off in a jog.
WE watch as he gets further and further away, just as he disappears in the distance…
♪ June seems too late ♪
…There he is again; WE move to be in front of him, watching as he grows from the tiniest speck in the distance to the giant man that he is.
♪ Delayed ♪
As he gets closer, we see his perplexed smirk start to manifest as he becomes certain that he is indeed seeing THE CAMERA again…
♪ Maybe for the better ♪
…He grins and puffs out a laugh as he passes.
♪ Imagine us together ♪
WE watch as he grows smaller and smaller again, another runner passes by in the opposite direction.
♪ June seems too late ♪
Right before SAM vanishes from view completely, once again WE materialize in front of his path.
♪ Delayed ♪
Watching from a distance as he takes his time, enjoying the feeling of the cold on his skin as he runs.
♪ Maybe for the better ♪
This time, as he approaches, he is already laughing before the sound travels to THE CAMERA.
♪ Imagine us together ♪
He shakes his head as he passes, the sun starts to rise now, a lilac sky.
♪ We're relatively stable ♪
He's still laughing as he slowly decreases in size.
♪ Tentatively able (tentatively able) ♪
The streetlights begin to turn out, SAM turns left down a side street.
♪ Enough to say for certain ♪
WE follow ahead once again, this street is full of houses stacked tightly together.
♪ Whether this uncertainty is for sure, oh ♪
He approaches again, looks down at something on his watch, and starts running faster.
♪ For sure ♪
His eyebrows are pulled down, he looks determined.
♪ For sure, oh ♪
He pulls his lips into a thin line in acknowledgement as he passes this time.
♪ For sure ♪
He speeds past and fades into the distance much more quickly now. A woman leaves her brick home and enters her car.
♪ For sure, oh (June seems too late) ♪
WE move to the opposite sidewalk this time to give him space.
♪ For sure ♪
He grows and shrinks again, a man takes the bins out.
♪ For sure, oh (June seems too late) ♪
He looks around after a while, seeming uncertain. WE move again along the opposite sidewalk.
♪ For sure ♪
He finds THE CAMERA, then takes a left at an intersection.
♪ For sure, oh (June seems too late) ♪
Back upon another road with more land than houses, we wait for him to reach THE CAMERA again.
♪ For sure ♪
A car passes, after so does he.
♪ For sure, oh (June seems too late) ♪
He continues to sprint almost completely out of view.
♪ For sure, (delayed) ♪
WE take our next place.
♪ For sure, oh (June seems too late) ♪
He grows quickly again.
♪ For sure, (delayed) ♪
He passes.
♪ For sure, oh (June seems too late) for sure (for sure) ♪
He shrinks.
♪ For sure, oh (June seems too late) ♪
He cuts a left, a dirt path between two properties. WE follow ahead, it's not long until we see the bunker again in the distance.
♪♪♪
SAM slows; his breathing is heavy.
(Song For… By Matt Corby plays)
♪♪♪
He places his hands upon his head.
♪ A million prayers went up to heaven, they went for nothing ♪
He makes a face, and with fumbling fingers, he lowers his hands enough to attempt to get at his phone.
♪ A million pleas came back down, they said “stop asking” ♪
He slows to a walk now, growing to his regular size, he manages to get his phone out of its pouch.
♪ So much blood on my hands ♪
He returns one hand to his head as he continues to puff, the other unlocks his phone as he passes.
♪ So much blood on my hands-- ♪
WE move to the bunker's door, watching him grow again. He changes the song.
(Everything Harmony By The Lemon Twigs plays)
♪♪♪
He smiles, then raises his phone to his head so both hands are upon his head, stretching his rips, letting the air flow into his lungs.
♪ And I love the air when it's hazy, And I love street when it's noisy ♪
He grows bigger.
♪ And I'm so obsessed, by the way the wind feels on me ♪
He grins at THE camera as he approaches, lowering his arms.
♪ And I love the sky when it's crazy, like a lightning strike its not rainy ♪
The door opens, and then closes just as quickly. From inside, MIRACLE bounds out, sniffing around, tail wagging, then runs over to SAM, whose face falls at seeing the dog, his eyes suddenly haunted.
♪ And I'm so obsessed when it's everything harmony ♪
He crouches down and pats the dog as if on autopilot, then he stands and walks toward the door.
♪ I am trying ♪
He takes a huge breath in and rubs at his face, then opens the door.
INT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - MORNING.
SAM bursts through the front door brightly.
♪ I like the screen when it's grainy, I don't laugh when somethings not funny--♪
He grins down at his brother and takes out his headphones. DEAN shuffles down the stairs, into the MAP ROOM, after having let MIRACLE outside. CASTIEL sits at the table watching patiently, while DEAN continues to move sluggishly, sipping at his coffee, then drops himself into the chair across from CAS. A moment of silence, DEAN works on his coffee, and CAS continues to stare at DEAN.
SAM
Dude, did I just see Miracle taking a shit out there?
DEAN nods slowly, face still buried in his oversized Garfield mug.
Where'd you end up last night?
DEAN glances up slowly, he’s not yet awake enough to talk. He shrugs a shoulder and grunts in response. SAM chuckles and makes his way down the stairs, virtually skipping down them.
Right...
Too early...
He makes his way into the kitchen.
You get any cool presents in your room?
SAM calls from the kitchen, forgetting or not caring about the "earliness", he only just referenced.
DEAN
Mmm…
Then, SAM walks back into the MAP ROOM with his own coffee. He strides to where CAS sits, and just as SAM is about to pass through CAS’S psychic imprint, the angel disappears and reappears, standing at the head of the MAPS TABLE. CAS rolls his eyes, looking inconvenienced.
Completely oblivious, SAM continues.
SAM
I got a whole extra room added to my bedroom…
Was a chunk of clay wrapped up at the door, and inside was-- get this-- not only and a bunch of glazes, but a whole ass pottery wheel, and a kiln…
He laughs.
Haven’t even tried to do anything slightly arty since Stanford, but uhh-
He addresses THE CAMERA.
Could be fun to try, right?
DEAN
Got a massage chair and one of those, “Do you even lift, bro”, blankets…
DEAN mumbles.
SAM
Oh. Yeah, me too.
The blanket… you-- uh-- you try it?
DEAN grins smugly.
DEAN
Slept like a damn infant.
SAM
Right?!
Bed’s bigger too…
I think it might actually be my bed from back home…
I also got one of those, uhm-- sun-rise-alarm-clock thingies, and a fish tank full of tropical fish.
DEAN snorts a laugh.
DEAN
Fish, huh?
SAM
Yeah… oddly… relaxing.
DEAN
Heh, nice…
He spares a glance at CAS.
So, Sammy, what's on the docket for you today?
Poking around here some more?
SAM
Uh, dunno?
I guess I better call into work at some point… but beyond that…
He pushes his bottom lip out and shrugs.
What about you?
DEAN
Well… If…
He points at THE CAMERA.
Siri… gives me the okay, I was thinking of heading out for a few days.
SAM looks surprised.
Making the rounds, trying to collect 'em all, you know?
I figured letting everyone know what's what in person might be risky?
Wasn't until I was lying in bed last night that I realized, Jack gatecrashed your new place after we started talking about him… like maybe--
I don’t know… maybe he’s only able to keep half an eye on us… like he’s not really… controlling the narrative or whatever…
He spares another look at CAS, who seems content simply assessing the brother's conversation. DEAN shoots the rest of his coffee.
I don’t know…
SAM
Huh… yeah…
I don’t really remember what we were talking about before he turned up, but uhh-- sounds smart?
Like, if--
He smiles stiffly at THE CAMERA.
If they are powerful enough to do all of this… they’ve gotta be getting that power from somewhere, right?
SAM looks at the few lit-up areas upon the MAPS TABLE, some indicating their rough location. DEAN nods, his eyes are far away. SAM clears his throat and jumps up,
Okay, cool, well, just let me pack a bag. I think I can be ready to go in about half an hour?
DEAN starts to open his mouth to respond, but no sound comes out. SAM, who doesn't notice, stretches a little and starts typing on his phone.
We should hit up Eileen first... considering how... Chuck…you know…
Last time…
But first I gotta take a shower… and we gotta feed the pets.
He laughs at the absurdity.
DEAN
Right, good.
Eileen.
He nods.
Hey, what exactly happened between you two?
Shouldn't you have a minivan and two point five rugrats by now?
SAM
Uhh--
No we-we took a break and just never…
We still keep in touch.
I just--
We kind of... missed our time, I think…
Last I heard, she was seeing some other hunter and wanted me to meet him.
He snorts.
Couldn't find the time or energy to go do that, but, uhh-- I guess now’s as good a time as any, right?
DEAN
That's too bad… I always liked her….
You're right, though, if you still care about her, and Chuck’s been Peeping Tom all over your life, she's probably the most wanted puppet this side of Sesame Street…
The thing is, though...
DEAN swallows.
Sammy… you can't come…
He sounds broken, like he knows there's gonna be an argument, but he doesn't have the gusto to fight. SAM freezes halfway to the hall. He scoffs and turns to his brother.
SAM
You. have. got. to be kidding.
DEAN
Sam… listen…
DEAN blinks at him slowly. He very much avoids CAS’S continued quizzical looks.
SAM
--Dean.
No.
This isn't up for debate.
We’ll take our new friend here, so we’ll have a quick out if things get hairy…
There's literally no reason to--
DEAN finally glances up from the coffee that he cradles in both hands, meeting CAS'S invasive gaze, and grumbles in response.
DEAN
--Fine.
He sighs and addresses his brother.
Fine, Sam
My god, you’re a pain in the ass.
Just…
He looks at CAS again, who squints back at him… the ghost of a smile on his lips.
Just--
You can come… okay…
He flops his head back and grunts.
I’m too old to argue.
SAM
Actually, dude...
SAM grins.
If you add up all the years you've been dead and I haven't…
I think I’m actually older th--
DEAN
--Sammy, don't you dare finish that sentence!
I swear to god-- I--
DEAN suddenly appears to be very awake, his eyes alert. He rubs his index and middle fingers at his temples.
Don't you take that from me…
An older brother…
That is the one thing I--
A creaking door is heard coming from one of the bedrooms.
SAM and DEAN exchange a look.
DEAN'S gaze flicks to CAS, then both brothers look toward THE CAMERA.
DEAN jumps up, but SAM gets to the hidden gun under the MAP TABLE first.
A groaning KEVIN enters from around the corner, rubbing at his eyes. The three men gawk at him.
KEVIN
Oh, hey guys…
He then stares at the gun, still pointed at him.
Sam, could you maybe lower the weapon so you don't accidentally kill me... again.
SAM, slowly does as he's asked.
SAM
Kevin?
KEVIN
Yeah, I know, right?
Flesh and blood again, and everything.
SAM moves, somewhat hesitantly, to give him a hug. DEAN follows suit, clapping him on the back.
DEAN
Good to have you back, man.
KEVIN
Yeah, I can't lie… I’m glad to be here.
He laughs, exacerbated.
SAM
This is crazy.
He sits again and puts his head in his hands, then looks at THE CAMERA.
D’you do this?
There is no reply. He shakes his head, and his eyes start to zone out.
KEVIN
Did they?
I don't know.
One minute, I was in the veil… just… drifting, then I see this silhouette out of the corner of my eye--
DEAN
--Wait, you were still in the veil?
Jack didn't lead you up the stairway?
DEAN leans against the MAPS TABLE and looks at CAS, still standing at the opposite end. Then DEAN'S eyes trail the walls, as if attempting to subtly appear as though, merely looking around the room; aware of the possibility that he may have stared a little too long.
KEVIN
Dude, I've been yelling non-stop, trying to get anyone to hear me for literal years.
I think the veil's been cut off from the rest of the world.
DEAN sighs.
DEAN
Damn it.
Here, I'd been thinking that no ghosts was a good thing.
DEAN shakes his head.
Figures.
CAS moves to stand beside DEAN now.
CAS
So, it is true then.
Jack is…
CAS looks devastated.
I think a part of me was hoping there was some kind of explanation as to why he'd made such odd choices so far in his tenure--
SAM pipes up, interrupting CAS. Though completely unaware of doing so.
SAM
--It's got to be right then, Dean.
When we planned with Jack, what he would do about the ghosts…
CAS sighs dramatically. DEAN feigns interest in his brother's words, whilst simultaneously attempting to sneak further subtle looks toward CAS, trying to empathize.
He promised to weigh everyone's soul and place them in their respective afterlife…
CAS
This is only moderately irritating…
CAS drones sarcastically.
SAM
--But the fact that the veil still exists at all…
He leaves his sentence open-ended. CAS walks a few paces and plants himself between the two brothers. He faces SAM and nods overenthusiastically.
CAS
Yes, I quite agree, Sam.
He then turns and places his hands on his hips.
I couldn't have said it better myself, right, Dean?
Despite himself, the corners of DEAN'S mouth quiver upward.
DEAN
Right…
DEAN'S eyes bulge as he realizes he answers the wrong person. He clears his throat.
Ummm… Yeah, Sammy, I'd say so…
DEAN closes his eyes and shakes his head briefly, trying to clear it. KEVIN and SAM both catch this and share a worried look.
SAM
You okay, Dean?
CAS tries and fails not to look too smug as he moves to stand beside DEAN again. DEAN takes a visual lap of everyone staring at him.
DEAN
I'm fine!
He growls. Then, noticing that this may have had the opposite effect than he intended, he takes an intentional, deep breath. CAS is no longer smiling. He searches DEAN’S face solemnly.
Just need another coffee…
You make yourself at home, Kev, because we're thinking this may be the only place on earth that's safe unless you've got them--
He does finger guns at THE CAMERA, then blinks down at his hands, embarrassed by himself.
--as your plus one.
KEVIN
Well… about that…
It's crazy, but a whole heap of my things are already here? And like… a bunch of stuff I always wanted.
Like one of those ergonomic gaming chairs with surround sound built into the headrest?
It's like the room was already made, just for me, by the time I had magically poofed here…
DEAN grins and pumps his brows at SAM. He then turns to KEVIN and narrows his eyes.
DEAN
What’d you just call me?
SAM rolls his eyes, KEVIN looks confused, and tired.
KEVIN
What…
I--
SAM
--Ignore him.
Kevin, Dean and I are gonna leave for about a week, max.
Do you think you’re okay on your own here for a bit?
KEVIN
Oh, Uh, are-- um-- Bobby and Charlie going too?
SAM and DEAN exchange a look.
DEAN
What'd you just say?
KEVIN
Yeah… you guys do know they're here too, right?
KEVIN laughs at the obvious answer written on the brother's faces. CAS beams.
DEAN
Like the O.G. or version 2.0?
KEVIN
I don't know what that means.
SAM
Given the last 24 hours…
I'd place my money on the original.
SAM stands again, seemingly having snapped out of his dissociative state.
You know what rooms they're in?
KEVIN
Pretty sure they're both still sleeping because… they’re not insane.
I think she's Room 14 and he's 18
But, uh, yeah… when I first got here, I went for a little wander down the hall trying to figure out what the hell was going on, and I found her, doing the exact same thing as me.
Then we both found Bobby just kind of… sitting on a bed… staring into space…
Turns out they'd been zapped here at the same time as me.
DEAN winks at THE CAMERA.
DEAN
That's awesome.
He narrows his eyes in thought.
Hey, any of you been upstairs to see what's behind the mystery door in the garage?
SAM
Oh, dude!
That's where I was last night, checking out the place when I was looking for you, Dean-- I probably just missed you guys, Kevin--
There's this whole massive sunroom thing that backs onto this greenhouse area…
CAS drags his gaze from DEAN.
And just the way the sun's gonna hit it…
DEAN stares at CAS, who has a wistful look in his eyes.
The greenhouse will heat up the sun room, and the shade of the whole power plant will keep the brick cool on the eastern side…
It will probably become its own climate-controlled area, keeping itself at a comfortable temperature, twenty-four seven.
DEAN nods. He doesn't seem too interested but is clearly happy about both CAS and SAM'S enthusiasm.
KEVIN
Do you guys mind if I have a cup of coffee?
Dean rolls his eyes and grins.
DEAN
Our Casa is yours, Kev.
Free amenities, you know the drill…
DEAN looks to CAS, then juts his head toward the hall, letting the angel know it's time to go.
SAM
Right.
He hits his hands against his thighs.
I'm gonna go shower and pack.
He turns to DEAN.
You good if I'm in charge of road food?
DEAN sighs violently.
DEAN
Not rabbit food…
SAM laughs and shakes his head, incredulously.
SAM
Fine.
I'll make you something with gross, severed animal flesh in it.
Happy?
DEAN
Honestly?
I ain't too bad, actually, Sammy, thanks for checkin’ in on me.
He grins.
BLACKOUT.
END OF ACT ONE
Chapter 7: "Putting The Band Back Together" part 2
Summary:
The Things They Carried.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
ACT TWO
INT. BABY - MORNING.
(Daddy Lessons by Beyoncé plays)
♪ With his gun, and his head held high, He told me not to cry, Oh, my daddy said shoot. Oh, my daddy said Shoot ♪
THE BOYS drive through farmland, grass blurs by in streaks out of the side windows, occasionally paddocks are broken up by side roads and driveways. WE sit beside CASTIEL in the spare back seat, the other, behind SAM, holds a small blue cooler.
SAM
--And if you really think about it, even Irritable Bowel Syndrome can be healed through the solar plexus chakra if it's done by the right practitioner.
With your combo of childhood trauma and lethal farts, if it's not IBS it's somethin’ worse.
♪ With his right hand on his rifle, He swore it on the bible. My daddy said Shoot, Oh, my daddy said Shoot ♪
DEAN
No way, dude.
You didn't convince me with the Root Chakra.
What makes you think if you keep arguing, workin’ your way up the body, I'm eventually gonna cave?
SAM
Actually, I intentionally skipped the sacral because I know you aren't ready to hear that one…
Just let me try it?
What are you so afraid--
SAM’S phone rings on vibrate mode. He looks disgruntled by the distraction.
♪ He held me in his arms, and he taught me to be strong. He told me when he's gone, "Here's what you do, When trouble comes in town. And men like me come around”, Oh, my d-- ♪
SAM turns down the music until it is no longer audible. CAS tuts, and DEAN looks at SAM, with furrowed brows at first, then glances at CAS in the rearview. SAM clicks the green answer button, and DEAN, seeing what has caused the silence, pumps his fist in the air and mouths the words “thank you” at his brother's phone.
INT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - CHARLIE'S ROOM - MORNING.
CHARLIE sits in her new, brightly decorated bedroom. There are some familiar new items visible, such as LED windows, a massage chair, and a plush couch. However, everything seems to look more high-tech than we saw in DEAN’S room. There's a multi-desktop monitor, set up with a thick mechanical keyboard and a pink gaming chair, like the one KEVIN described earlier, set to one side of the room. On the other side, MIRACLE is curled up in a dog bed that appears to be some kind of miniature imitation of a Japanese pod hotel. The whole room emits bright lighting reminiscent of a cyberpunk film. CHARLIE is seated on the edge of her own bed, a white leather frame with an adjustable headboard and storage drawers beneath. She has her cell phone to her ear.
CHARLIE
Sam… you guys left before I could even say, "Hello"!?
INT. BABY - MORNING.
SAM
Charlie, hey!
CAS'S frustration with SAM for turning off the music subsides.
Yeah, sorry, I wish we had time to see you before we left…
INT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - MORNING.
She pulls her legs up onto the bed and crosses them underneath her.
CHARLIE
Yeah, yeah.
Kev gave me the lowdown…
People to save…
Gods to kill, or whatever…
Nothing new…
INT. BABY - MORNING.
SAM
He did?
Oh, good.
Yeah, we figured we'd better get a move on as soon as possible, and let you get some sleep.
CAS
Can you please mention that I say “Hello”?
DEAN lifts a hand from the steering wheel to whack SAM’S arm.
DEAN
Tell her we-- I say, “Hi!”
CAS shakes his head at DEAN in the mirror and turns to glower out of the side window. SAM'S brows lower.
SAM
Dean says--
SAM shakes his head and clicks the speaker button on his phone.
CHARLIE
(Through the phone).
Received and reciprocated!
Damn, he's loud.
DEAN laughs at this.
SAM
You're on speaker, Charlie, that okay?
CHARLIE
(Through the phone).
Hell, yes.
Hey, Dean!
CAS
Oh, hello, Charlie.
Yes.
He nods.
I am here, too.
Isn't it wonderful, we're all able to finally speak again?
DEAN takes a huge breath inward, glancing at CAS in the rearview quickly before speaking.
DEAN
Charlie.
Welcome back!
What's shakin’?
CAS shakes his head again.
CHARLIE
(Through the phone).
Oh, you know, not much.
Was dead, now, I'm alive.
What about you?
DEAN grins at this.
DEAN
Uhh, yeah, about the same.
I was dead, now, living…
Same ol’...
CAS
Me too.
CAS grumbles, then sighs.
INT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - MORNING.
CHARLIE
So, guys…this… um--
She glances at THE CAMERA and smiles uncomfortably, she mumbles and blocks her mouth with her hand, uncertain if WE can understand or hear her.
--Slightly clingy, extra powerful, strong yet silent type…
Thing…
… It's not gonna eat me anytime soon, right?
WE receive an awkward wave.
INT. BABY - MORNING.
SAM rubs at his eyes tiredly.
SAM
Well, we don't really know what they are, but uh-- it doesn't seem like we need to worry…
We're just kind of… going along with it for now.
Maybe, if none of us had a history of being brought back for fucked up reasons, we’d be able to appreciate it all a bit more…
He looks to DEAN for his reaction, but the older brother seems more focused on driving.
CHARLIE
(Through the phone).
Yeah… Great…
“Innocent until proven guilty” holds up in court… but in my life… I'm leaning more toward, “Everyone and everything wants me dead,” so why would this be any different?
DEAN lets out a single humorless laugh.
DEAN
Yeah, exactly…
He looks at SAM.
If it comes down to it, we'll figure out what to do, but for now, they're not on the hit list.
CHARLIE
(From the phone).
Sure.
Friend then.
Got it.
Trust?
Wow, that's a tall ask…
But I guess they did just take me from “Only the Good Die Young” to “Too Young to Die”, which, honestly, I'm not against.
I like life.
Living is good.
DEAN glances at SAM again, noting the way he picks at the skin on his thumb, and he takes a shaky inhale.
DEAN
While we're on the subject… I just gotta say, Charlie, I am so sorr--
CHARLIE
(From the phone).
--Don’t even start, Winchester.
Besides, all of us here, had a big bitch fest about the two of you...
Now that I know how your story played out, post my death…
Gotta say… I come off as a starring role in the whole “Removal of the Mark” saga.
I died like a bad bitch.
DEAN stares at the road, his expression tells us that he doesn't believe he's truly forgiven. SAM purses his lips.
Doing something I love, for someone I love?
Couldn't have asked for more…
Although now that I am back, I’m definitely gonna be asking for more…
Starting with a new phone… did you know they've brought back flip phones?
Like, touch screen ones?
SAM cracks a smile at this.
SAM
Yeah… I had heard that…
He chuckles, DEAN blinks slowly at the phone, his mouth pulls into a line.
DEAN
It's so good to have you back, Charlie.
There is a moment of silence, and then some rustling on the other end of the line.
Charlie?
CHARLIE
(From the phone).
Uhh, guys… a brand new flip phone just magically appeared on the bed next to me…
Do I…
Can I touch it?
DEAN
Uhh--
He laughs, flicking the indicator, and he overtakes a ute carrying a horse float.
Yeah, I'd say that's yours now…
Seems our new friend is really into gift giving, so… knock yourself out…
INT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - MORNING.
CHARLIE
Um… I think I just found out what my love language is…
They are one hundred percent my new best friend.
She smiles a genuine smile at THE CAMERA.
INT. BABY - MORNING.
SAM grins fondly at his phone.
SAM
Well, we’d better let you go, you can call us again whenever you feel like it, after you set up that new phone…
He glances at DEAN for approval.
CHARLIE
(From the phone).
Oh!
Wait, I totally forgot…
I called to tell you...
Jo and um…
Ellen…
SAM and DEAN’S eyes widen as they glance at each other.
And, there's the guy with a mullet… forgot his name, but I kind of hope that “guy with mullet” would be enough for you to go on…
I feel like he was in the Carver Edlund-- Uh, God-- books too?
But… now I'm totally blanking on his name.
The brothers smile at each other, and CAS can't seem to help but have even his resolve waver a little as CHARLIE continues to rant.
He's been checking out the old computer here, seems pretty impressed by it all, which obviously makes me feel like I've finally found my people…
The brothers share a concurring shrug at this.
But, uh… that's not all…
Um…
Adam… your brother?
He's here.
SAM grips his phone with both hands now, lifting it up higher, subconsciously. Worried that he may be mishearing CHARLIE. DEAN spares a cautious glance at CAS.
Seems really grumpy about it too… like he was happier dead, maybe?
That and um…
Her voice pitches up to an ominous note.
… Your parents…
There is silence on the other end as THE BOYS' mouths gape open and closed in shock like fish, desperate for air after bein' thrown into an unknown world, rid of any and all water.
INT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - MORNING
CHARLIE clears her throat and readjusts her phone to the other ear and rests it against her shoulder, so that she can start to open the packaging on her new phone.
Yeah…
Point is, they were all here last night, too…
And… are still here, I guess?
They all kept to themselves or their… little groups… probably, in some of the other spare bedrooms…
They were apparently all pretty emotional about seeing each other again.
INT. BABY - MORNING.
DEAN shakes his head in disbelief. He grips at the steering wheel so hard, his knuckles turn white. SAM'S eyes narrow like he's trying to solve a complex math equation, CAS leans forward in his seat, intrigued.
CHARLIE
(From the phone).
And, like I said, Adam’s… um… struggling…
Bobby found them all this morning while he was running around looking for you guys.
The dude seemed pretty pissed that you left without taking him with you….
She amends herself.
Not like pissed, pissed… just like, old man pissed, ya know?
Then your um… your dad kind of laid into him a bit…
She laughs awkwardly.
… Dramaaa!
SAM'S eyes widen at his brother, who looks so out of it now that he may run his beloved car right into a ditch. CHARLIE seems to sense the angst in the silence from the other side of the phone.
No, but honestly…
I think things are kind of settling down here now…
It's kinda cool.
We’re like a cool little club of once dead, freshly alive, little guys, just wandering around… crying over how great water tastes and stuff…
She laughs an uncomfortable and obviously fake laugh, with a prolonged “Eh” sound at the end that trails out into continued dead air, from THE BOYS' end of the phone.
… Anyway, we think we’re gonna get jackets made up, so if you want one, Dean, you gotta send me your size, and I’ll put in an order…
DEAN blinks and comes to at the mention of his name. He swallows.
DEAN
Sounds good, put me down for one of every color.
CHARLIE
(From the phone).
… What's that?
DEAN adjusts his hands upon the steering wheel, softening his grip.
DEAN
Uhh… as in I’ll take a different jacket for each time I've taken a chomp from the bucket…
He glances at SAM, who still seems to be working on understanding the language being spoken around him. DEAN twists in his seat to share a worried look with CAS.
CHARLIE
(From the phone).
Oh, not you, Dean, sorry.
Jo needs help trying to set up a tablet for Bobby.
An old man and a girl who died before iPads were even invented, trying to figure out how to sign in to Spotify…
Wish me luck, boys…
SAM
Yeah…
He puffs a laugh, his eyes still glazed over.
… And… tell ‘em… “Hi” from us…
His voice is strangely even, calm. DEAN clears his throat.
DEAN
--And to make themselves at home.
We won't be gone too long…
He stares, morbidly transfixed, upon his brother, only sparing the odd glance at the road.
CHARLIE
Will do.
You guys keep safe out there, okay?
SAM
… Always…
DEAN sighs and drags his gaze back toward the road.
DEAN
Be good, kid.
SAM presses the end call button on his phone and reaches his hand around to the seat behind him, his hand just inches from touching the cooler. He turns to try and see how far off he is from grasping at it, when he notices THE CAMERA.
SAM
… Oh, uh, hey… you're back…
A green smoothie appears on SAM'S lap, resting between his legs. He takes a deep breath inward, and his eyes focus a little. He manages an attempt at a thankful smile, then reaches into his jacket pocket, while keeping an eye on both THE CAMERA and his brother. DEAN adjusts the rearview mirror so he can view both, THE CAMERA and CAS, at once. SAM pulls out a pill bottle from his pocket; he shakes one from it and takes a large gulp from his drink. DEAN pretends not to notice.
DEAN
Good to see you.
Started feeling naked…
He chuckles. CAS makes a dubious face at this.
Uhh… Sammy wanted me to ask if we have to have eyes on you for you to be looking out for us.
CAS
Which, Sam would know the answer to already, if you shared any of last night's occurrences with him.
DEAN sets his jaw at CASTIEL in the mirror.
DEAN
Yeah, Sam... They said we're all good either way.
He eyes CAS again.
SAM
Then why trail me on my morning run?
Why drag me from my house?
DEAN swallows, glancing between CAS and THE CAMERA, looking for help answering.
DEAN
Uhh…
CAS considers this.
CAS
Well… both of those events occurred while I wasn't there…
Maybe, they credit me as being enough to keep you both safe in their stead…
Although… Now that I think about it…
That may be… wrong…
They are an all-knowing entity after all…
I assume they're aware my grace hasn't been at full capability for years, while I was alive…
Yeah, actually, that… can't be right.
DEAN frowns and looks like he wants to give CAS a pep talk. His mouth moves silently for a moment as he thinks of what to say.
DEAN
There's gotta be a reason, right?
As crazy as all this is, it really seems like we've been given a win here.
Let's just accept that maybe some of this won't make sense… until it makes sense… You know?
SAM sighs.
SAM
You're totally rocking the team colors, aren't you?
DEAN
No!
SAM blinks at him.
... Maybe?
Look, until people start dying off again…
Hell yeah, I'mma keep this party going… even if I am the only fool out on the D-floor.
SAM snorts.
Well, we got our friends back, our family?
You got some fish, I have my Miracle.
C'mon, Sammy, things are looking bright for once.
SAM
Yeah…
SAM looks out his window and picks at his thumb.
DEAN
… What?
SAM
Huh?
Oh… It’s just…
DEAN raises his brows, SAM takes one look at his face, then turns back to his window.
Yeah… don’t worry.
DEAN
For the love of--
Spit it out, Sam.
Whatever it is… I can take it.
He scrubs at his mouth when SAM doesn't respond, then pipes up again.
Lemme guess… You wanna go back to your new life…
In your new home… so, you can eat your new granola… and play tarot with your new friends?
SAM scoffs and shakes his head incredulously.
SAM
Dude, you're joking, right?
DEAN
Then what is it, Sammy?
DEAN'S eyes bulge at the road.
I’m sick of the moping!
You're bringing down the whole vibe lately and--
He does a double-take and then slaps SAM’S torturous hand away from its own victim.
Stop that--
What’s with that?
SAM smiles, it’s a genuine smile that reaches his eyes, then breaks. He breathes in deeply and sighs.
SAM
I really thought things were okay…
That I was okay…
DEAN leans his head back against the headrest as he groans. He flops it back down so he can keep his eyes on the road.
DEAN
Like I said…
Then I had to come along and ruin all your fun.
SAM
God, not every single thing is about you!
DEAN flinches and looks affronted by this.
I thought I was fine.
I was doing the work.
I was trying to be healthy… live a good life.
SAM laughs.
I wasn’t even here…
Not really…
I was… just going through the motions.
DEAN’S voice is small.
DEAN
Oh.
SAM
Yeah, turns out I wasn't as healthy as I liked to think I was…
DEAN
So, uh, what's with the self-mutilation, Thumbelina?
He swats the indicator again, this time to overtake an RV.
CAS
Dean--
SAM
Wow…
Uh--
DEAN'S voice rises an octave higher.
DEAN
What?
You’re--
He chuckles awkwardly.
Yeah-- Sorry.
He bares his teeth.
I don’t know.
SAM
It’s--
SAM sighs again.
It’s fine… I just…
He seems hesitant.
It's... like… a compulsion.
DEAN shakes his head, confused.
I don’t know…
It’s just--
Yeah…
It’s--
CAS
I think you should ask him if he has been seeing a mental health care professional to process the grief of your death.
DEAN looks at CAS, deeply offended, yet he gives in… in his own way.
DEAN
You… You're doing okay, though, like…
He forces out the word.
…mentally?
DEAN cringes, then turns to see SAM smiling at him in understanding.
It's not like you’re seein’ Lucifer again or anything, is what I’m asking.
SAM’S smile vanishes.
SAM
No…
Not-not any more…
DEAN looks concerned, CAS leans forward in his seat.
DEAN
Anymore…?
He prompts, and SAM nods and chuckles humorlessly.
SAM
Look, It wa’n’t exactly smooth sailing after you died, Dean.
CAS
Ask him.
DEAN sighs and flops his head down in defeat for a moment, before he seems to remember he’s driving.
DEAN
You see anyone about it?
SAM lets out a single loud laugh. DEAN jumps at the sound.
SAM
Yeah…
Yeah, I did end up having to see someone, actually.
SAM laughs again.
DEAN
Okay, well, what am I missing here?
SAM gawks at him.
SAM
You really wanna have this conversation?
DEAN juts out his bottom lip and shrugs.
DEAN
What?
SAM
You’re either so far in denial that you won't even let yourself look at it.
Or, you’re set on playing dumb, hoping I'll just drop it, huh?
DEAN is taken aback by this.
You really think I’m gonna take pity on you, and just let it go, so you never have to face it?
DEAN eyes dance analytically on the road.
I played chicken with you about this before, and looked how well that turned out…
The older brother sets his jaw and lowers his brows. His eyes trained upon the highway in an attempt at hiding that he could very well be aware of the vague direction in which SAM might be headed, and has rendered himself mute in a decided attempt to stop the conversation. CASTIEL peers at DEAN over his shoulder, trying to force DEAN to see his face; to look into his eyes. SAM scoffs out another fake laugh, and after a moment of silence, shakes his head at his brother.
Right…
He continues anyway.
You know, I really never expected to see you again, right?
I prayed to everyone I could think of…
People-- things, neither of us had ever even heard of before…
After a while, I figured maybe you got--
He points upward.
--Him…
To tell everyone to ignore me…
His next words are full of grandiosity.
'Cause you finally managed to get what you always wanted…
DEAN’S demeanor crumbles, and he looks pained.
DEAN
Sam…
SAM
You’re the one who asked…
DEAN swallows hard. His hand shakes as he adjusts the gear stick, so BABY can climb the upcoming hill.
That's always been it, right?
Probably, from the start?
Every trial…
Every damn time it was one of us, gonna die?
You had to be the one…
Had to, “protect me?”
He scoffs.
You just wanted an excuse to end it all--
CAS
--Dean… what is he saying?
DEAN is almost completely frozen, barely blinking.
SAM
--All the times, you talked about "Finally making it to the finish line"?
All those speeches you gave, just to keep me fighting?
All of it was a lie.
You never expected-- never wanted-- there to be some kind of “after”...
At least not for you.
CASTIEL leans back in his seat in shock. DEAN continues to stare out at the road.
I knew-- I… It was like you were too calm… after Cas…
And then… with… “He who can’t be named”...
When he never even mentioned bringing Cas back?
DEAN swallows again.
He just up and left…
It broke you, Dean!
It broke me.
And then suddenly, you're fine?
Suddenly, you're calm?
SAM sniffs.
You were just so damn calm…
And Akron?
That fucking "last-meal-pie-festival", bullshit?
How could you, Dean?
DEAN'S voice is low.
DEAN
I didn’t know--
SAM
--Don’t.
Just. Stop. Lying.
DEAN
I mean it, though!
I didn’t-- It wasn’t like I--
SAM
--Killed yourself!?
DEAN flinches.
No?
SAM laughs, manically.
No, Dean--
No, you just went in half cocked to a vamp fight and stumbled upon a happy accident!
SAM’S voice drips with sarcasm. DEAN continues to stare at the road, he looks like a much younger DEAN. Just a child being yelled at by JOHN WINCHESTER for botching a salt line.
CAS
Please tell me that's not true…
DEAN silently keeps his eyes trained on comforting, ever constant, ever stable, faded black and white pavement. CAS seems to waver between frustration at his own current situation (being ignored) and heartbreak over DEAN.
SAM
I had to go to therapy, you know?
Court mandated.
DEAN’S hands quake at the wheel.
First, though, it was a seventy-two-hour hold with meds so bad for me, I couldn't figure out if I was dreaming or not…
When they finally did let me go… let's just say, I was lucky they let me pick my own therapist…
Remember Mia, the shifter?
DEAN nods, jerkily, at the road.
I figured I could just bail and use a new alias, but I was just so desperate at the time…
Not like, I could just check out or anything… wouldn’t want that guilt weighing on me…
He laughs, incredulously again. His eyes, starting to glisten.
I knew it wasn't the same as before, the visions-- that it wa'n't real but…
His laugh, more of a whimper.
Got busted breaking into a hospital to use the dialysis machine.
CAS
Oh, Sam...
DEAN finally looks at his younger brother, completely bereaved.
SAM
Yeah, I know.
Crazy…
He sniffs, and clears his throat, trying to pull himself back together.
But, at the time… I thought it was the only way I could start again, you know?
Only way I could really know-- see for myself-- that it was only me in here.
He presses his fist against his chest.
Finally, have my blood be truly, completely, clean.
DEAN
Sammy… I--
SAM
--Don’t.
SAM’S voice is clipped.
Please don’t apologize.
You should be sorry for the way you treat yourself.
You should want to live for you.
Not just so that I don’t go outta my damn mind without you.
DEAN tries on a smile.
DEAN
Back now, aren't I?
SAM
Yeah?
For how long?
DEAN sighs and SAM takes that as his answer.
Exactly…
Kind of hoped, Cas might be included in this resurgence…
For a brief moment WE see that CAS looks touched at the mention of his name… He then immediately goes back to looking overwhelmed by the onslaught of information revealed.
Not just because it’d mean you’d be less eager to jump in front of a bus…
CAS’S face contorts further with grief.
But… you know I miss the guy too, right?
You do get that he was my friend?
CAS
--Tell him I'm here, Dean.
He places his hand on DEAN'S arm, still unable to feel him.
SAM
--Someone I knew for as long as you did?
Maybe, it would be nice if we could… I don't know… acknowledge he ever existed?
DEAN'S hands grip tightly on the wheel again, as if holding onto it is the only thing stopping him from ripping open the driver's door, clawing off his seatbelt, and taking a dive out infront of anything willing to smear him into paste upon the highway.
CAS
--Let him know that I'm okay…
SAM
I still miss him too, he was probably my best friend, and I get that things were different for you two but--
SAM’S clearly pushed too far. DEAN slams his fist against the top of the wheel.
DEAN
--Sam, can we not!
HE exhales deeply, from his bones, his voice is weak, full of desperation when he speaks again.
Please, Sam.
CAS
You could just tell him that I'm here, Dean…
DEAN pulls his mouth into a wavering, thin line.
SAM
It’s been years… you still won't tell me what even happened to him--
CAS
--Ignore me.
That's fine.
CAS huffs a dramatic sigh (that could give teenage SAM’S angst a run for its money), leans back into the back seat, and crosses his arms, watching the two brothers talk. DEAN breathes heavily.
DEAN
--I told you he summoned the empty an--
SAM
--Yeah, but how?
How did he just “summon the empty”?
Like, if he could do it… why can’t we summon it to make some kind of deal?
DEAN howls one thin attempt at a laugh, full of exacerbation.
DEAN
Really?
A deal with the empty?
You think that's smart?
CAS
--it would be a waste of time…
SAM
--No!
SAM stares him down.
But it's what we do!
Cas is family.
It's what we always do for family.
CAS
I don’t understand why you won’t just tell him, Dean.
DEAN
Look--
He looks CAS dead in the eye, in the rearview. DEAN is undeniably pissed off. He takes a moment to roll his shoulders and stretch out his neck from side to side, then exhales. His voice is more tender when he speaks again.
I, uh-- I might… have a way to bring him back…
Without anybody getting too hurt over some dodgy cut and shuffle, okay?
DEAN grimaces at his brother's tender expression, his eyes bursting with hope. CAS’S reflection in the rearview show nothing but THE ANGEL'S deep confusion.
I didn’t wanna say anything and get you all excited in case it didn’t pan out…
But, uh-- yeah… if I can convince Rowena to punch in… then maybe --
SAM
--You won’t kill yourself again anytime soon?
DEAN'S eyes bulge in frustration. CAS exhales like he's had the wind knocked out of him.
DEAN
Dude--
CAS
Dean, please, I just want to understand.
CAS'S voice is full of exhaustion.
SAM
--Look, I'll take it.
Whatever keeps you around for a little longer, I guess…
SAM sighs, then smiles contently at his older brother.
CAS
Dean, I'm begging you...
But luckily for DEAN, CASTIEL’S voice is drowned out as SAM turns up the radio again. SAM’S flannel clad forearm nudges DEAN'S phone, and it lights up to reveal the current playlist titled, “On repeat” by user “C45T_L”.
( With You by Jessica Simpson plays from midway)
♪--down, I can say anything crazy, and know you'll catch me right before I hit the ground, With nothin' but a T-shirt on, I never felt so beautiful, Baby, as I do now, Now that I'm with you. ♪
SAM makes a face and then grins at his brother, expecting a laugh in return...
SAM then notices his brother's phone, and his concern for DEAN returns.
DEAN, however, is far too distracted to notice any of this. He slowly and timidly raises his gaze to see CAS, staring back at him in the rearview mirror, a weary look of deep confusion and worry upon the angel's face. And WE…
BLACKOUT
END OF ACT TWO
Notes:
Again. Sorry for my crimes. I promise Cas won't be ignored next chapter!
Chapter 8: "Putting The Band Back Together" part 3
Summary:
Road Trip.
Notes:
Happy Destiel Despair Day to those who celebrate.
Chapter Text
ACT THREE
EXT. GAS-N-SIP- NOON
THE IMPALA purrs, blasting Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen as she pulls in from the fuel station into a park closer to the convenience store. The engine shuts off and SAM and DEAN WINCHESTER climb out of the front two doors, stretching out their limbs after the long drive. SAM speaks through a yawn.
SAM
Yeah, the whole world's economy has gone to complete shit…
Wait a minute, how have you been paying?
Aren't all your cards expired by now?
SAM leans over the car, resting his arms atop it.
DEAN
Take one guess.
I know the answer’s rattling ‘round in there.
He squints at SAM and knocks his fists against BABY'S roof to dramatically emphasize each word.
I. Believe. In. You.
DEAN peers over toward THE CAMERA as WE wait to the side of the automatic doors into the store. SAM follows his brother's gaze and rolls his eyes at himself and nods.
SAM
Right.
Forgot.
DEAN
Anyway, why don't you go on ahead, my treat?
Go, start collecting delicacies from this fine establishment, till your heart's content.
I'll be in, in a sec.
DEAN swivels his back around and grips his hip, keeping his legs planted as he stretches out his back. SAM shrugs, pushing out his lower lip and heads into the store. DEAN continues to stretch, waiting until his brother is out of sight, then opens up the door to the back of THE IMPALA. He is greeted by an irate CASTIEL, arms crossed, and staring out of the opposite window.
C'mon, Grumpy, lunch time.
CAS shakes his head and then turns to glare at DEAN.
CASTIEL
Who, me?
He narrows his eyes.
DEAN
No, Tyler Durden…
Yes, you, Cas.
CAS
Oh!
Well, sorry.
You see, I seem to be a touch confused.
I thought you couldn't possibly be talking to me, given that you’ve quite literally been ignoring me all day.
DEAN rolls his eyes.
DEAN
Can you get out of the car so I can speak to you properly?
It's CAS'S turn to roll his eyes, but he vanishes from the car and reappears beside the open car door, regardless. DEAN blinks and glances around, seeing CAS, he sighs.
Thank you!
He slams the door and straightens his back out again, for real this time.
Look, I get that you're pissed at me…
He takes a deep breath in and pinches the bridge of his nose getting ready for the inevitable argument to come. CAS sighs.
CAS
It's not-- it’s just that…
DEAN’S brows twitch at this, lowering his arm slowly.
I know that you may not have had any other real chance at an alternative but it's…
It's hard…
To accept that someone we love?
Someone we consider a valued member of our strange little family here--
They're trapped...
The weight of his pure grief is carved into CAS’S features.
DEAN
I know.
I--
It was our only call at the time, Cas, you gotta know that.
If there was any other way--
CAS
I don't doubt you…
CAS’S eyes are tender with feeling.
But the fact remains, I had given my life to protect the both of you, and I’m brought back to find--
DEAN goes pale, his voice, almost a whisper.
DEAN
I know.
He avoids eye contact as he continues.
I get you're probably living the closest you’ll get to hell right now.
And I'm so sorry about the silent treatment and-and the lying…
When…
When I got you out of… there--
DEAN swallows, and opts to stare at his feet rather than have to see CAS’S immediate, even more sincere and gentle expression. DEAN scuffs the toe of his boot against some drying gum stuck to the asphalt.
--Our new friend, here, gave me a way to get you out… and that was all I really cared about.
Didn't think too much about the in’s and out’s of housing you and--
A second attempt at a swallow, his voice is softer still. As he talks, he continues to hit his toes against the gum, like he's attempting to force it unstuck.
--I just figured I couldn't let you rot in there--
I just needed you out, so I got you out, man.
I just--
He sighs, then meets CAS’S eyes. DEAN grins, a poor and pathetic attempt of his usual carefree dazzle.
--Well, you get it…
You said it already: I ain't exactly had the best experiences being a landlord; rent unpaid… the place is always trashed when I've evicted the tenants--
He lifts his arms in a half-hearted shrug.
--And that's just me. That's my own crap.
Sammy's had worse.
Hell, the dude's had to put in new walls just to be able to keep on keeping on, and I just--
A third swallow, and he's back to working the gum away.
--I don't wanna have to say it, man, but “it's not you, it's me”?
He lets out a breathy cross between a chuckle and a sigh.
I can't figure out a way to tell him that I've actually gone and done this by choice…
And the longer that I've stayed quiet, the weirder it's gonna be, and the more it's gonna end up a whole ass shit show.
He smacks the toe of his boot once hard against the gum, whether missing it completely or hitting it dead on, either way, it remains stuck. He sighs and brings his gaze back up to meet CASTIEL’S piercing one.
You've seen how he is… the guys barely keeping it together…
And, honestly, I'm not sure, I can bring myself to make a, “Hey, there's been an angel here with us this whole time and I never mentioned it”, Speech: The Sequel.
CAS looks at DEAN warmly, a comforting and caring smile wavers upon his face. He's hurt. DEAN breathes in sharply at CAS'S look.
A-And-- Don't get me wrong-- I'm sure he'd be wrapped to know you're alive and kicking…
I’m just wondering if maybe it's a bit too familiar.
DEAN sighs, dropping his shoulders.
This sound at all fair to you?
Because-- I mean-- I will tell him if you really want me to…
I just--
CAS smile reaches his eyes, seeming, perhaps, just grateful to have been asked.
CAS
No, I understand.
It's fine.
CAS shifts uncomfortably and fixes his gaze toward the blue midday sky beyond the gas station roof, blinking into the sunlight.
I’m sorry, I'm not yet well enough to seek out another vessel.
DEAN physically recoils, his eyes widen.
DEAN
What?
No!
Uhh--
He chuckles awkwardly.
Hey, I mean, if you're jonesing for an escape, I'm not gonna stop you, but, honestly, man…
It's uhh-- it's nice...
Having you here, I mean.
After all, this may be my only real chance to keep a proper eye on you, so you can't go running off to do the first murky side quest, big enough to fit under that freakin' hair shirt of yours.
He slaps his hand against CAS’S shoulder and...
...It passes straight through the angel, as if DEAN was swatting at an imaginary bug.
CASTIEL makes a poor attempt at forcing his smile into hiding, yet still his fondness shows. DEAN catches CAS’S look and laughs.
Alright-- Shut up.
He pivots, and flustered, he marches toward the entrance to the Gas N Sip. CAS matches his pace, still laughing beside him.
CAS
Didn't say a word.
INT. GAS-N-SIP - NOON
The store has a bored looking teenager stationed behind the counter, typing on their phone, a young adult man and woman trying on every single pair of the gas station sunglasses, laughing and taking selfie as they go, and SAM WINCHESTER, who looks down at the open magazine he picked up at random when he first noticed DEAN turning from where he-- or so as it appeared to SAM-- suddenly finished talking to himself, and marched his way through the automatic doors, into the store.
The magazine in question held by SAM? A copy of “The Rub”. SAM’S eyes widen at the content inside. He swallows and shoves it back behind the Maxim where he found it as both, DEAN and unbeknownst to SAM, also CAS, wander over.
DEAN, cool and calm, approaches and nods upwards at his brother in acknowledgement.
DEAN
Let's see, coffee, yogurt, and--
In a swift movement, he inconspicuously dives his arm down, and snatches up the magazine that SAM just returned.
He pauses.
SAM opens his mouth to speak but fails to find any words and closes his mouth again.
This happens two more times as DEAN simply continues to stare down at the magazine in his hands as if it's a complex equation in a language he's pretty sure he learnt once.
CAS
You need to tread lightly here… for his mental well-being.
DEAN
Uhh…
SAM
Oh, come on, dude you literally watch cartoon tentacle porn, two uhh-- happy-- people the same damn genitals, as you, in sparkly pants, for art, is nothing--
DEAN
Oh, for art!
He laughs a little too loud.
CAS
Dean…
DEAN
Don't worry, everybody, it's for art.
He flicks through the magazine as if to make a point, nods his head emphatically as he lands on a page with various breasts resting upon cakes, and what appears to be two people urinating on them. He presents the images to his brother.
Hmm.
Oh, yeah, very arty.
SAM
Well, in my defence, I didn’t get that far into the content yet.
DEAN
No?
Just the cover's what was doing it for you?
He thumbs the page to glance back at the cover and shakes his head, then opens it back up to show the boobs squished in cakes and wee again.
So, this is where you draw a line, I guess?
Gay is a-okay, but the pissy titty frosting is taking it too far?
SAM sighs.
SAM
Totally unrelated topic here, Dean, but do you wanna talk about dad being back because--
DEAN
Actually, I do have something really important I need to say to you, Sammy.
He snaps the magazine shut. Places it back in its spot, hidden away behind a safe looking Maxim, and shakes his head. He then places a hand on his brother's shoulder.
You know you can always come to me, right?
SAM looks genuinely shocked at this. DEANS faux sincerity cracks at the look on SAM'S face.
I know for some people, going through puberty can be a pretty confusing time…
He grins and lowers his hand, shaking his head again. SAM and CAS both sigh.
Some unsolicited advice, wait until you take the skin mag home before--
SAM
--Yeah. Funny.
SAM rolls his eyes.
Anyway, you gettin’ anything?
DEAN
Umm, yeah…
I will… be gettin’ something to eat…
He turns to look at CAS, then continues trailing his eyes across the shelves.
What do I want to have for lunch…
CAS waits patiently, silently, causing DEAN to clear his throat melodramatically. SAM'S eyes narrow suspiciously.
SAM
Are you… asking me… what you should get?
CAS
--Oh... You're asking me?
CAS is genuine in his question in comparison to his sarcastic display outside just moments ago. DEAN closes his eyes and flops his head down in frustration.
DEAN
Yep.
Yes.
SAM snorts.
CAS
--This is confusing.
SAM
--Why?
DEAN
Just--
What should I get?
He pulls his head up to make direct eye contact with CASTIEL again, and then gives the store another attempt at an inconspicuous scan.
SAM
--I don't know, something with a fruit or vegetable in it--
CAS
--Um, I really grew to enjoy the--
SAM
--And not just onion or potato--
CAS
--Expired fruit cakes I was allowed to “take home” for free--
SAM
--Because, dude, that really doesn't count--
CAS
--But, I only really liked them after removing all of the glazed fruits--
SAM
--If you're actually planning on eating to gain some sort of nutrition--
CAS
--And then I’d also have them with a jar of bolognese sauce--
DEAN
--Holyy
Nope.
I’m getting a slice of apple--
He glares at SAM.
--pie, some nachos, and a fuckin’ dead eye.
He saunters off toward the coffee station rubbing at the back of his neck and CAS follows, smirking as he goes, clearly somewhat enjoying having any kind of effect on DEANS composure. SAM looks around the entirety of the gas station analytically, a small, yet uncertain smile twitching at the corners of his mouth.
FADE OUT
INT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - STOREROOM - EVENING
WE fade in as BOBBY walks into the room, carrying a plate with a bacon and egg sandwich on it, and a mug of hot coffee. He walks carefully toward the table, trying not to spill anything. ADAM MILLIGAN can be seen searching the room for something, he is so immersed in the task that he gives BOBBY zero indication that he even knows the man is there, until BOBBY plonks the plate down on the table. Resting it upon what appears to be a notepad that has been scribbled over in grey led to reveal the words that had once been present on the now missing, page above.
BOBBY
Eat.
ADAM glares at the sandwich, then at BOBBY, then finally raises his gaze to meet THE CAMERA.
ADAM
Not hungry.
He pulls the notebook from underneath the plate, causing a clattering sound as the plate meets the table. He places the book back down on the edge of the table by a large pewter bowl.
BOBBY
Like, hell you aren't, kid.
Think I haven't noticed, you've been hauled up in this damn room since we got here?
ADAM slumps into a chair and sighs.
ADAM
I'm not a kid.
I lived for over a thousand years in hell.
He runs his hand over his face.
Look, Bobby, I appreciate the gesture, but let's not act like you're not just in here with me just so you don't have to go back out there.
BOBBY smirks and sets himself down into the opposite chair.
BOBBY
No beating ‘round the bush with you, is there?
ADAM smiles a grim, twitch of a thing, his stomach audibly growls.
So you don't mind if I help myself then?
BOBBY makes a move to collect the sandwich and pauses to hover his hand just out of its reach. ADAM sighs, again.
ADAM
Give it here… it does smell pretty great.
BOBBY grins and slides the plate toward him. ADAM picks it up then takes an enormous bite, barely managing to keep it all in. BOBBY gently pushes the coffee towards him.
BOBBY
So, what is it exactly you're lookin’ for in here?
Think maybe I can help?
Could be nice to have an excuse to be hauled up in here other than just so I--
ADAM
--Don't throw down with John Winchester again?
He asks, washing down his full mouth, with coffee. BOBBY sighs and adjusts his hat.
BOBBY
You could say that…
He rubs his hands together eagerly.
So, what're we workin’ on?
ADAM suddenly looks very pale. He puts his coffee down and lowers the sandwich back onto his plate.
ADAM
Yeah, nothing.
I thought-- I hoped…
Doesn't matter, they don’t have what I was looking for.
BOBBY
Well.
Sorry to hear that.
BOBBY takes in the room full of dried herbs hanging from the ceiling, fresh plants under UV growth lights, strange looking jars full of every color liquid imaginable, some with dead animals and strange beasts inside.
Place is huge though, and considerin’ you barely made it outta this room… might be a chance they still got whatever it is that you're after.
You try askin’?
Got the boys phone numbers?
ADAM
Really?
He laughs.
You asking me, if the same guys who left me to rot in the cage all those years, ever remembered to leave me their contact details?
BOBBY
Right…
Well, not for nothin’--
ADAM
--Save me the speech, Bobby, I know they did what they could, I guess.
I just…
He sighs, again, shaking his head.
It's not their fault, it's God's.
BOBBY
Yeah, seems to be a theme ‘round here these days, huh?
ADAM stares at the sandwich, watching the yolk slowly escape the bread and spread itself across the plate.
ADAM
Truth is, after a while, the cage wasn't so bad.
Michael protected me from most of it.
I don't think-- I know-- he wasn't prepared to have to deal with me still being awake in there… able to see everything… feel… everything…
It was all he had left to focus on, you know?
Protecting me, I mean.
BOBBY nods, though he seems uncertain, ADAM doesn't seem to even notice, he continues to stare at the plate in front of him, the yolk pooling against the rim.
I don't really remember when it happened exactly, Sam was long gone, Lucifer was still around and it was like…
I lost where I began and he ended…
Like, all either of us knew was that Lucifer was--
He shakes his head.
The things that he did…
All we had was each other, all we wanted was to keep each other-- ourself, safe.
And then he was gone… And it was just the two of us… And we could breathe.
He looks up.
Sorry, I'm not sure why I'm telling you this.
BOBBY
Can’t imagine it coulda been easy, sharing a body with an archangel, shut off from regular folk for that long…
ADAM
That's the thing.
It was easy.
It was everything.
Now, he's gone and I have nothing.
BOBBY
That's… look, I get that there's a lot here that I can't really make heads or tales of, but I think you’re a smart enough kid--
ADAM smiles and rolls his eyes.
--Whatever--
You're smart enough to know if you're just going through some kind of holy Stockholm syndrome…
That what you're lookin’ for in here?
A way to get your bunk buddy back?
ADAM points at THE CAMERA.
ADAM
Nameless over there showed me a vision of Dean, doing a ritual to summon Castiel, from the void where angel's go after death, and I…
He shrugs.
I assumed it was for a reason?
Maybe I was wrong.
Maybe there is no meaning to anything.
Maybe there never has been.
BOBBY blows the air out of his cheeks in a big sigh.
BOBBY
Hate to bring bleak to a pity party, but the way I see it, the world’s full of chaos.
That's just the way it's always been.
Sometimes, you'll find things can have a meaning, but only if you choose to make it have one.
I think it's just a way to sort through all the crap.
You gotta find something you wanna believe and don't you dare let go.
ADAM
So, you're saying, I should have hope?
BOBBY
I'm sayin’ it's too damn easy to give up.
Find something, anything; a reason to get out of bed.
Doesn't matter if it's because you have hope that the lurkin’ riddle in the corner there’s gonna give you the answers you're lookin’ for, or if it's ‘cause it's what you think Michael would want for ya.
You grip on tight to whatever it is that keeps you goin’.
If being delusional is up for grabs, hell, you better believe I'd rather that than have no idea what I'm fightin’ for.
ADAM studies THE CAMERA for a moment, then breaks off a piece of bread pinching, pulling apart the bacon inside and lathering it in the egg yolk before plopping it in his mouth. The door to the storeroom opens, and JOHN WINCHESTER steps inside. Upon seeing him, BOBBY turns back around, ADAM continues to pick apart the sandwich and drink his coffee.
JOHN
Wondered where you'd got to.
Both BOBBY and ADAM continue as if he hasn't spoken, as if he isn't even there.
Right… Well, I just came by to let you know Mary and I are headed off.
BOBBY raises his brows.
BOBBY
Where the hell else you two gotta be right now?
What's so damn important, it can't wait until after those kids of yours, get back?
JOHN
Look, Bobby, I know things are strained between us and I don't expect everything to be solved in that one, very public, yelling match.
He sighs.
I just got Mary back.
Everything I ever did-- the good and the bad-- was for her.
You gotta at least get that.
You gotta see that maybe an environment like this ain't exactly the best place for us right now.
ADAM clears his throat.
ADAM
Yeah, good for you, dad.
You’d better get her outta here before we bump into each other in the hallway and I gotta explain how I'm the result of some of that “bad”...
You did that for her, right?
JOHN looks genuinely shocked for a moment.
JOHN
Yeah, well, this is exactly what I’m talking about.
It's pretty clear nobody ‘round here's too thrilled to see me, right now.
Maybe, that's on me, I sure as shit know I wouldn't forgive me if I were any of you.
Just hoped we could put all of it aside for the boys' sake, but it seems I was a damned idiot to think anyone around here would spare me an ounce of sympathy.
He laughs humorlessly.
So, congratulations, you're making it so uncomfortable here that we have to leave our own son's home while the rest of you get to play happy families.
Have fun explaining that to ‘em when they get here.
BOBBY
You still here?
JOHN scoffs and goes to leave before turning back to face ADAM.
JOHN
I'm sorry, I wasn't around for you more, son, I really am.
And for what it's worth, your mother, those yearly catch-ups for your birthday?
That was the closest to a happy, normal life, I ever got after I lost the boy's mom.
I need you to know that.
BOBBY grits his teeth as if it's taking all his might not to start screaming, he stares at the table in front of him, until JOHN makes his way back through the storeroom, and closes the door behind him. BOBBY exhales.
ADAM
Great, now I feel bad for the guy.
BOBBY huffs.
He at least knows not to talk about Chuck or Jack out there, right?
BOBBY
Think Kevin made the rounds…
And as for feeling bad for John...
Course you do, the man’s a pro.
He chuckles.
Ya know, he got Ellen's husband-- Jo’s dad-- killed?
No way, he wasn't plannin’ on making a run for it the moment he saw ‘em.
But he had to lay the groundwork ‘fore he skulked on outta here--
He shakes his head.
You notice, he said we’re gonna have to tell the boys, he's taken Mary and disappeared?
Well, now you’ll tell ‘em the story while you're feeling bad for him…
He shrugs.
Boys get pissed at everyone but their old man.
Low and behold, John's got off scott-free..
ADAM glares blankly at the storeroom door.
ADAM
Damn.
That's…
BOBBY
--Don't worry kid, been dealin’ with his shit for years.
You just focus on what makes you happy and just know that you're ol’ man’ll be doing just fine with or without you feelin’ bad about his selfish ass.
ADAM looks down at his now empty plate. Bobby pipes up, clapping his hands together.
So, you want me to give you the boys phone numbers now?
FADE OUT
INT. ROYAL INN - ST. LOUIS - NIGHT
SAM and DEAN sit in modern red chairs at a marble table. They've dumped their bags on their respective king-sized beds to claim one each. CASTIEL lays upon DEAN'S bed, his eyes are closed, and if not for the blissful smile upon his face, one may think he was fast asleep. THE BROTHERS are devouring room service, served on ornate silver dishes and porcelain. DEAN, a lobster with chips and an almost completely neglected side salad, and SAM a vegan poke bowl; a rainbow of vegetables. DEAN takes a large swig of beer before cracking the last leg off the crustacea and half ripping, half slurping out the meat inside it. SAM looks at his brother, appalled and shakes his head. A smile would have most likely bloomed in earnest had his phone not buzzed on the table at this precise moment, distracting him.
SAM
Alright, Eileen says we can meet her at Basoli’s out near Pikeville tomorrow.
He throws his phone back down onto the table, in a clunk, and takes a swig of his own beer. DEAN eyes SAM suspiciously, he clears his throat.
DEAN
She gonna be finished up by then, or she wanting an extra set of hands or two?
SAM leans back in the chair as he draws out his next word.
SAM
Nope.
He pops the ‘p’.
Turns out it's just another Kentucky Goblins thing.
The death was unrelated, apparently.
Was gonna be heading back tomorrow, anyway.
DEAN wipes his hands on the cloth serviette resting on his lap.
DEAN
Oh, how I hate those grey little freaks.
SAM holds his food in the side of his cheek as he talks, a hand covering his mouth.
SAM
I ‘unno I think they're kind of funny.
When else you gonna meet something in our line of work that's whole thing is just poking around people's yards at night?
DEAN makes a creeped out face and shivers dramatically.
DEAN
Yeah, like I said… they're freaks.
He downs his beer, rises from his seat, then announces to the room.
Alright, I'm gonna have a shower.
Nobody look or-or listen or even peek into my head while I'm in there.
We all clear?
CAS
Have you already finished the lobster?
CAS pipes up from the bed, lazily opening his eyes to look at DEAN from across the room.
DEAN
I have finished eating--
CAS
--Damn it.
CAS rolls over on the bed, sleepily.
DEAN
--The entire lobster, Sammy.
So, naturally I am gonna hose myself off.
SAM raises his eyebrows at his brother.
SAM
Uhh… Yep…
Okay, dude…
He gives him a half-hearted thumbs up.
Not gonna follow you in there and I doubt they--
He gestures an absent wave at THE CAMERA.
Wanna see you washing your junk either, man.
DEAN
Okay.
He nods, then scoffs.
I know.
Just-- Yeah.
Good.
DEAN marches toward his bed and lumps his duffle onto his shoulder. He takes a brief pause here to note CASTIEL’S curled up frame.
CAS
Go. Enjoy.
I'll hide away for a while in your memories.
Choose something nice, please.
DEAN huffs a quiet laugh. He hikes his duffle up his arm as it starts to fall.
DEAN
Nice, huh?
Might need a minute or two here…
SAM turns in his seat.
SAM
You say something?
CASTIEL opens his eyes again, slowly.
DEAN
Uh-- yeah.
I'm just… thinking…
CAS rolls over to peer up at DEAN.
SAM
About?
DEAN
Yeah…
I don't know…
He stares down at CAS and hikes his bag up again.
SAM
Right…
You 'kay, Dean?
DEAN grins and turns to his brother.
DEAN
You remember how Cas’s grace was kind’a shoddy, back before we both kicked it, last, and he came down with a really nasty case of the flu?
SAM laughs.
SAM
You mean... when he got a cold?
DEAN ignores his brother's comment and shakes his head incredulously.
DEAN
I reckon that's gotta be the only time I managed to pull one over on him, you know?
SAM frowns and DEAN chuckles at his brother's face.
Dude’s always been the one lookin’ out for me.
Kind’a nice to turn it on its head that one time.
He nods to himself, then throws a dazzling smile at CAS.
Poor bastard probably hated every second of it.
SAM scoffs at his brother, his eyes narrowing, walking uncertain territory.
SAM
Oh, yeah, no, he totally wasn't loving all of the attention…
He laughs, again and evidently getting the all clear, lifts the chair underneath him so, he can face his brother.
You know, I kid you not, he literally asked me for my advice on how to break it to you that he’d gotten better… took a whole other week before you came by my room officially ending the quarantine…
DEAN’S aghast at this information and glances at CASTIEL, who grins sheepishly now.
He was all, “Sam, please, do I let it continue until Dean eventually wears himself out or is that unlikely to happen?”
He says in his best imitation of the angel's voice. DEAN smiles down at his feet.
“Sam, Dean knows that my temperature has been at 98.6° for the last four days. Why won't he stop? The guilt is unbearable.”
DEAN laughs at both his brother's impersonation and at the angel in question, who now attempts to cover his face in his hands.
DEAN
Serves him right.
Sonofabitch got breakfast in bed, three meals a day and a box of tissues.
If that's causing him unbearable guilt, guy’s got a hair-trigger for self-flagellation.
SAM laughs hard. CAS lowers his hands at this and scowls at them both.
SAM
Sure.
You doted on Cas for three whole weeks, Dean--
DEAN opens his mouth to protest, but his brother cuts him off.
--But, maybe when we get him back we should go all out.
Give him a full VIP treatment, so he knows what's really worth feeling guilty over, you know?
That is-- I mean, if you really only threw him a couple of tissues every other day?
Seems kind of sad he'd make such a huge deal over coming to me about it, right?
DEAN looks trapped and confused and uncomfortable. He shifts his weight between his feet.
DEAN
I--
He scratches at his face absentmindedly, then has to readjust his duffle again after it slips.
--huh?
SAM puffs out a laugh.
Shuddup.
SAM smiles smugly. DEAN clears his throat.
Whatever, I'm actually showering now.
He spins and points all around the room.
Nobody perv.
He puts on a grand voice and holds his arms out.
I know it may be tempting, some may even say ‘hard to resist’, but resist you must, for tonight, my rockin’ bod is for my eyes, and my eyes only.
SAM rolls his eyes and turns back to his dinner.
It is a sacrifice I must make for the good of all that is--
CAS
--If you don’t hurry up and take a shower--
DEAN stares at him, clamping his mouth shut with a smirk.
--I’ll possess you enough to tell Sam--
His brows are lower, but his eyes are still alight.
--about the time you worked the case in Elwood--
His eyes bulge and he scurries as fast as he can toward the bathroom, his duffle swaying jerkily, side to side as he moves.
--and left me a drunken message about what really happened with the king of the fae--
The bathroom door slams shut and CASTIEL disappears. SAM is alone now, staring after his brother with his mouth pursed into a worried line. He sighs, then stabs his fork into a cube of sweet potato.
DEAN’S phone lights up across the table, and SAM'S eyes subconsciously zone in on it. A text notification from an unsaved number reads:
“Hey, it's Adam (your half-brother).
The thing that brought us all back, showed me that Castiel’s hitched a ride with yo…” continued.
SAM glances around the hotel room as if half expecting to see CAS... just standing there, staring back at him.
SAM
Cas?
He looks around the empty hotel room.
You're here somewhere, aren't you…
Or--
SAM glances over at the bathroom and a sly smile returns to his face. He chuckles an intrigued and somewhat mischievous sound, then jabs his fork into his bowl for a huge, heaped mouthful.
BLACKOUT.
END OF PART THREE.
Chapter 9: "Putting The Band Back Together" part 4 A
Summary:
The Prisoner.
Chapter Text
PART FOUR.
INT. BASOLI’S - AFTERNOON.
EILEEN LEAHY sits alone at a table, a cup of black coffee half empty in front of her. She taps her phone, and it lights up. She makes a face at the time, then sighs, before picking up her phone, locking it, and using the screen as a mirror. She pulls her hair out from behind her ear. She sighs again and places the phone down. SAM and DEAN WINCHESTER enter the restaurant with an invisible CASTIEL in tow. THE BROTHERS chat in a low murmur, and upon finding her, SAM clamps his mouth shut in a toothy grin. He lifts his hand in a wave, and EILEEN stands as the men approach the table. THE BROTHERS take turns hugging her before taking their seats at her table. CAS places his psychic imprint at the remaining chair and gets to work checking out the menu for something for DEAN.
SAM
Sorry, we're so late, someone overslept.
SAM moves his hands quickly as he speaks; he's clearly been practising over the years and is now fluent in sign language. DEAN spares a sheepish and apologetic smile at EILEEN.
DEAN
Someone could'a woken me up?
He winks, and raises a hand at a waiter, who's making the rounds nearby.
EILEEN
Don't worry about it.
I'm just happy to see you both.
CASTIEL sighs at her words without even a glance up from the menu.
SAM
Us too.
He signs along with his words. The waiter approaches the table.
DEAN
How you been?
You good?
EILEEN glances at the waiter, then nods and smiles at DEAN.
WAITER
Hi, welcome to Basoli’s.
What can I get for you this afternoon?
SAM
Uh, just three? Long blacks, for now, thanks.
He looks at EILEEN for guidance. She nods emphatically and drains the rest of her mug. CASTIEL looks up from the menu, but DEAN speaks before the angel gets a chance to even open his mouth.
DEAN
Make mine a latte, two sugars, a shot of caramel.
SAM hides a smile from his brother as the waiter takes this down.
SAM
Thanks.
EILEEN
Thank you.
WAITER
I’ll be back to take your food orders when your coffees are ready.
The waiter leaves.
SAM
So, how have you been?
He signs.
EILEEN
Better.
You?
SAM smiles and EILEEN glances at DEAN, who is now checking the menu himself.
Better?
SAM
Yeah.
He laughs.
EILEEN
I'm glad.
The two stare into each other's eyes in silence for a long moment, eventually causing DEAN to glance up from the page.
DEAN
You kids need a minute alone?
SAM scoffs at his brother.
EILEEN
Sure.
She laughs.
Maybe an hour or two?
She shrugs. SAM inhales sharply, then attempts to play it off as a chuckle.
Kidding.
She amends.
DEAN
Oh, I'm sure you are.
He says sarcastically.
CAS
Leave them be.
DEAN leans forward, propping his elbows on the table, decidedly ignoring CAS.
DEAN
So, Eileen, Sammy tells me you've shacked up with some other hunter nowadays?
CAS shakes his head, and SAM steals the menu, yanking it from under DEAN'S arms.
EILEEN
Did he?
She eyes SAM with a smirk.
Actually, that's old news… Outdated.
We broke it off because I am apparently still hung up on one of my exes.
Even CAS is intrigued at this point. DEAN grins. SAM'S breathing is hard and fast, it looks like he's about to pass out.
DEAN
Huh.
That right?
He elbows SAM in the arm conspicuously.
SAM
Sorry… that's rough.
I know you liked him.
He clears his throat and stares at the menu with unfocused eyes. DEAN and EILEEN share an uncertain look.
DEAN
Uh, so, to clarify… this ex of yours…
EILEEN
--6 foot 4, long hair, heart of gold…
She nods, smiling, then, at a lack of response from SAM, chews on her lip. SAM continues to stare blankly at the page in front of him, breathing rapidly and picking at his thumb under the table. DEAN places a hand on his brother's shoulder.
Sam?
He flinches at his name.
DEAN
I guess I'll take one for the team here and speak on his behalf when I say--
SAM
Don't, Dean--
DEAN chuckles, pats his brother's shoulder before lowering his arm and stealing back the menu. He sends CAS a quick, alarmed look.
Um, Eileen, ah, we-- we’re here for a reason…
He clears his throat.
All the shit that-- The stuff that broke us up…
It's not over.
EILEEN'S brows lower, DEAN scoffs a chuckle.
DEAN
Woah, there, Romeo!
Wanna give her a comment on the other bit first…
SAM’S shakes his head.
SAM
--This is important.
Nothing else matters.
Not… feelings.
It’s--
He sighs.
Eileen, we think that, uh, if we talk about it too directly, it sets off alarms and-- and with what happened last time-- with you being made to…
He inhales a deep, shaky breath.
EILEEN
Sam, I don’t understand what you're saying…
The stuff we broke up over… as in Chuck?
I thought he was gone… didn't Jack--
A high-pitched ringing sound interrupts her sentence, and the whole restaurant covers their ears as the world around them starts to shake. SAM looks desperately into THE CAMERA, his eyes full of terror.
DEAN
Oh, for the love of--
THE GANG IS TRANSPORTED BACK TO THE SAFETY OF THE BUNKER.
INT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - SUN ROOM - AFTERNOON.
KEVIN lets out a squeak from one of the cozy chairs in the sun room and drops his phone as three of them appear out of what appears to be nowhere. CASTIEL also reforms and, seemingly unfazed, walks the length of the room and peers into the greenhouse at the other end. DEAN shakes his head with raised brows, watching the angel intently.
SAM
That-- That's what we can't talk about.
SAM signs and then, in a huge puff of air, exhales and gives EILEEN a half-hearted smile.
EILEEN
Um, okay… I’m sorry?
She looks around with a dropped jaw.
Where.... the fuck are we now?
DEAN
The bunker, new and improved.
Thanks to our sponsors.
He points at THE CAMERA, then claps his brother on the back.
You catch her up on everything.
I'm gonna head on down, make sure nobody's trashed the place, good?
He starts making his way toward the door.
SAM
Uhm, actually, sorry, Kevin, do you mind filling Eileen in on everything?
DEAN turns to his brother in confusion as SAM throws a pleading puppy dog look at EILEEN. He moves his hands as he speaks.
We will talk properly later, I promise.
He signs. EILEEN searches SAM'S face for a moment, then nods, and SAM smiles warmly in return. He then strides over to the doorway, DEAN throws it open and, shaking his head in disbelief, gestures dramatically for his brother to be herded into the garage, he then follows behind, closing the door after them. CAS materializes beside DEAN with a sigh.
DEAN
What's up?
SAM
So, that di’n't exactly work out how we thought it would.
He chuckles half-heartedly. CAS strolls over and sits himself on the trunk of THE IMPALA.
DEAN
Really?
Pretty much how I figured it'd go down.
DEAN joins CAS over in BABY’S park, walking the space and giving her a once-over to make sure she hasn't been harmed in transit. He makes a face at CAS as he reaches the trunk, as if worried the angel may somehow manage to dent the metal with just his psychic image alone.
SAM
Huh?
I guess…
SAM absent-mindedly picks at his thumb, hissing when he rips at the scab, causing it to start to bleed again. DEAN folds his arms and stares at his brother.
DEAN
You follow me out here for a reason?
SAM huffs a laugh and shoves his hands into his jacket pockets.
SAM
Well, yeah, actually…
It's, uh, it's about Cas.
CASTIEL slides off the trunk and walks toward the younger Winchester. DEAN lifts his chin, his voice is full of hesitation.
DEAN
What about him?
SAM can't help but smile, he plays it off as enthusiasm rather than tomfoolery.
SAM
I wanna know the plan.
How are we gonna get him back?
A warmth spreads over CASTIEL’S face as he stands beside SAM. DEAN looks between the two of them, it's clear he feels as though he’s being ganged up on now.
DEAN
I already said, not a fully fleshed out plan or anything…
SAM
You said you’d talk to Rowena about it, though, right?
DEAN
Yeah… and?
SAM
And… Why her?
Why now?
We already tried asking her for help gettin’ Cas back years ago when everything first went down, right?
What's changed?
DEAN adjusts his footing.
DEAN
Uh, heya, Sammy.
Not sure if you hit your head or something, but there's this new player on the board, you may have met ‘em; real strong, silent type, likes Clip shows and bringing people back from the dead?
SAM
No-- I get that-- I'm just wondering, did they show you something to make you think Rowena has some sort of answer?
CASTIEL is silent as he watches the brothers talk. He's been wondering the same thing, his eyes narrow, and he pulls his mouth into a smirk. DEAN drags his eyes from the angel with a deep inhale.
DEAN
Obviously, Sam.
Not like I put a bunch of names in a top hat and pulled her out at random.
SAM
So, what is it?
DEAN breathes.
What'd they show you?
DEAN
The specifics don't matter--
SAM throws his hands up and laughs. CAS seems concerned.
SAM
You and I both know that with things like this, the specifics are all that really does matter!
DEAN pulls up his shoulders.
DEAN
Look, can’t you just trust me when I say that, so far, everything's above board?
SAM
So far?
DEAN sighs.
DEAN
Wow, you're a pain in the ass.
He spares a glance at CAS before continuing.
The second part of the plan, I'll admit, it's a little thin, okay?
Not much to go on, but enough to know it'll work out if we get Rowena on the horn and work out--
He brandishes his hands in a line, rousing.
-- whatever kinks there may or may not be.
SAM
So, what is it?
What's the actual plan, Dean?
DEAN lets out an irate huff of a laugh and pinches the bridge of his nose. It's become obvious that SAM will not just "let it go".
You gotta admit it, dude, you're acting cagey!
He laughs through his words and manages to curb his delight into exacerbation as he appears to hold genuine concern that DEAN may be planning on sacrificing himself again.
DEAN
It’s--
He sighs.
Part two involves the-- you remember when Jack had his little soulless tantrum and kind of--
He flourishes his hands.
--Blasted mom into a zillion pieces.
SAM pulls his mouth into a thin line.
Yeah… well… he tried to bring her back, remember.
SAM’S face slackens as he realises where his brother is heading.
SAM
He brought back a shell.
With a wink and a finger gun, DEAN clicks the air in his cheek in confirmation.
DEAN
No idea the specifics of the spell beyond the incantation, though.
He points at THE CAMERA.
Cryptogram, left the recipe with some gaps…
SAM
Okay.
That's great and all…
But, you said part two?
What's part one?
DEAN takes a deep breath, his eyes bulge in frustration, and he bites his tongue in his back teeth.
CASTIEL
You may as well just tell him that I'm here, at this stage.
… I really don't think he’ll take it badly.
CAS squints at DEAN analytically as he runs his hands over his face. SAM watches with sympathy.
SAM
You know you can tell me anything, right?
If it's-- if there's some reason you don't want to tell me…
DEAN looks at his brother with disdain, but WE see, as he swallows, a fleeting expression of fear that disappears as soon as it arrives.
DEAN
Spare the mush, dude.
It's, uh-- part one is...
He stares at a spot on the concrete as he talks.
Remember, when, um-- Nick, he, ah--
He swallows.
Getting Lucifer back, there was a spell.
SAM nods encouragingly.
Jack's blood, because it’s Lucifer’s blood an-and the blood of the vessel-- Nick.
SAM
Right.
DEAN meets his brother's eyes, his gaze zeroes in as if trying to block CAS out of his line of sight completely.
DEAN
Well, uh, I'm thinking--
CAS tilts his head in confusion.
Maybe if we get some of Claire’s blood--
CASTIEL
… Dean…?
SAM’S face is so gentle and kind that DEAN has to look away. His voice is quiet when he speaks.
DEAN
--And maybe-- maybe, I don’t know, maybe another angel? They're all related, right? So their blood might work, too-- better, even.
SAM plays a long, stepping into the role usually reserved for talking to victims.
SAM
Yeah, sounds like it could work…
Can't believe we didn't think of it sooner.
He smiles at DEAN, who seems to be confused by the fact that he's gotten away with his lie. CASTIEL continues to search DEAN’S features for some kind of understanding.
We should get to work then, right?
Maybe get the teleport up and running--
He tips his head in the direction of THE CAMERA.
Bring Claire and the gang here, rather than wasting any more time driving.
DEAN
Yeah, I was thinkin’ that we should bring ‘em here either way…
SAM
Yeah, probably safer.
And we can do some summoning spells, I've got a list of angel names--
DEAN
--You don't think we should start with Rowena, though?
Make sure that gettin’ Cas his body-- his vessel back is even an option?
Something clearly clicks behind not just SAM'S but also CASTIEL'S eyes. SAM smiles warmly, then shakes his head.
SAM
This is Cas we're talking about, Dean.
We get him the hell out of the empty.
The rest we'll figure out.
We always do.
SAM prepares himself.
Look, I’m happy to take him on until--
DEAN recoils, but SAM continues on, through laughter.
--until we figured something else out.
DEAN stares at his brother like he's suddenly grown a second head. CAS watches with uncertainty.
What?
That really so hard to believe?
DEAN
I--
SAM
Honestly, we're wasting time here; let's just get the guy out.
He claps his hands together, then points at THE CAMERA.
Right, you think you can bring everyone here?
I'm gonna get to work on getting whoever we can summon to offer up some blood.
He turns back to his brother, who seems to be frozen in shock.
Dean, you can summon Rowena, I guess?
She's always pretty busy downstairs, so it might take--
He draws out his next word.
-- Weeks for her to even show, but…
He shrugs.
Could be kind of fun, hanging out just Cas and me.
And don't worry, Dean, I promise, I'll keep him safe, no matter what happens, no matter how long it takes, I'll keep him, right here--
SAM places his hand to his chest, his eyes narrow at DEAN, baiting him.
Even if it takes years-- Just two of us--
DEAN'S eyes dart back and forth on the ground as he listens. CAS appears to be using all of his energy not to look unappreciative.
--Sharing my body.
DEAN'S eyes focus suddenly, he looks like he's been slapped in the face. He closes his eyes and steadies himself.
DEAN
Alright, enough.
SAM
… What?
He asks, forcing down his smile.
Oh, do you want to take him on instead?
Wa'n't sure if the whole "Deastiel”, “Profound Bond” thing would make it more or less awkward for you.
DEAN rolls his eyes, and CAS is confused again.
DEAN
Sam--
SAM
--You know I never asked…
Did you two ever have sex?
CAS looks at SAM with complete and sincere bewilderment while DEAN works through a range of emotions in quick succession, beginning with complete and total horror, and ending in utter resignation.
DEAN
How long, you known?
CAS turns his perplexity toward DEAN now, who slowly blinks at his younger brother.
SAM
About-- Wait a second… did you…?
DEAN’S voice breaks in a squeal.
DEAN
No!
He swallows and shakes his head with wide eyes, attempting to focus.
About the--
He waves his hand up and down where CAS stands, now grinning, beside SAM.
About Cas being-- I got him out already-- How long have you known!?
SAM’S smile wavers as he tries, albeit poorly, to continue his ruse. He gives in with a laugh.
SAM
I ‘unno.
He shrugs.
You haven't exactly been subtle, dude.
DEAN grunts out an awful groaning breath and folds himself in half with the release of it. CAS laughs a pleasant exhalation along with SAM.
Think maybe the angel light on the map table was the first clue, though…
Kind of figured you’d let me know that he's back if I was right, and I thought I must’a been wrong when you didn't ever actually say anything.
He chuckles and shakes his head, his long hair swishing against his jacket.
The weirder you got, the more worried I was that you’d finally lost your damn mind…
SAM looks around the room, searching for a sign.
He around now, or you got him on lockdown?
DEAN nods at the space beside SAM. The younger of the two then looks to where DEAN gestured before trailing his eyes back to his brother in thought.
DEAN
Not gonna lock him down, Sam, it's Cas.
He scoffs. SAM nods with a frown, then lifts a hand to wave at DEAN, at CAS.
SAM
Hey, Cas. Glad you're with us, man.
CAS smiles with tenderness.
CAS
Please tell him I'm grateful for all of his kind words, and say hello in return.
DEAN rolls his eyes.
DEAN
He says, “Hey”, back, and says thanks for not talking shit about him when you thought he wasn't listening.
CAS tuts and shakes his head, but DEAN exhales in relief.
Gotta say, Sammy, you knowing...?
He draws an imaginary line in the air.
Huge weight off.
Dude's asked me to tell you, he's here, about a zillion times since he got back.
The whole thing's been givin’ me a damn headache.
SAM chuckles.
SAM
Good.
He shakes his head.
Then why, though…
Why didn't you just tell me he's been here?
There were plenty of opportunities--
DEAN
-- Really, Sam?
You don't see why that may be kind of a hard thing to bring up?
SAM
No, Dean, I don't, it’s like you--
SAM falters.
It's…
His brows raise as if he suddenly understands. There is all but a literal cartoon lightbulb that appears above his head. He clamps his mouth shut.
DEAN
Well, don't stop there, man.
It's like I, what?
He squints at his brother.
SAM
No--
He laughs.
--Really.
Don't worry.
I-I get it.
He nods, but it's too late, DEAN’S already getting angry, SAM tries changing the subject.
He-- uh, he's all good?
CAS
Tell him I said I’m much better now that I won't be ignored whenever he's around.
DEAN holds a finger up at the angel. CAS scoffs out an offended sound, his mouth drops open in disbelief.
DEAN
Wait, back up, a sec.
It's like I…
He prompts his brother unrelentingly. SAM sighs.
SAM
Look, dude--
DEAN
Don't “Look, dude” me!
You don't get to just run me ‘round like some kinda jackass, all the while with some smug, shit-eating grin on your face, then turn around and tuck tail when I start askin’ questions!
SAM
You're gonna be weird-- an-- and pissed, and I don't know if it's worth--
DEAN
Spit it out, already!
SAM takes a huge breath, preparing himself. CAS rolls his eyes.
CAS
Yes, Sam, please, enlighten us.
SAM
I just realised, maybe-- maybe the real reason you didn't tell me he's been here the whole time is because--
He sighs.
Because you wanted or-or needed to have Cas to yourself for a little while--
DEAN lets out a single humorless groan of a laugh, but CASTIEL’S irritation at SAM crumbles completely as he searches DEAN’S face with a newfound level of compassionate curiosity.
DEAN
As always, thank you, ever so much, Dr. Phillip.
He bows grandly.
Do you think that maybe, just maybe, the reason I had a hard time spitting out that, Angel's Walk Among Us, could have something to do with, I don't know… our entire existence?
He opens his arms to the side, baring his soul.
The fact that our parents were forced together by a cupid so that we were created, only as a way for Chuck's two biggest dick bag’s to ride us into the apocalypse?
An-- and not to mention Gadreel and every single--
CAS looks down at his feet during DEAN’S speech. Guilty of the most insidious crime of purely existing as an angel; he glances up again, though, as SAM cuts off his brother's tirade, laughing.
SAM
--No.
DEAN gaffes at his brother, licks his lip and adjusts his footing.
DEAN
I’m sorry?
SAM
That's not--
SAM huffs.
That's not it.
You coulda come to me-- talked to me-- before even taking the steps to get him out… but you didn't.
I gave you so many chances to tell me that he was here, and you didn't…
DEAN
Because of our history with this stuff, man!
Because you-- it's not like you've been a poster boy for mental health lately, Sam!
I didn't wanna dump this on you, too.
SAM laughs incredulously.
SAM
No…
That's not it, Dean.
He closes his eyes, and he inhales, trying to calm himself.
You really wanna pretend finding out Cas’s not just some other casualty-- someone else who Chuck killed off just for knowing us-- wouldn't perk me up just a little?
I practically begged you to just acknowledge that he meant something to us, pleaded with you to respect that I was grieving the loss of my best friend, someone I consider family-- all the while the guys have been hanging out in the back seat?
You even said it yourself-- he's been telling you to tell me that he's here?!
DEAN
Oh, come on!
DEAN is very clearly outraged.
CAS
He… has a point, Dean…
DEAN spins in fury to point at CASTIEL.
DEAN
No!
You don't get a vote…
SAM laughs and shakes his head in disbelief, then addresses the air around his brother.
SAM
Great, Cas, I’m guessin’ you agree?
He grins at DEAN.
So, you're really holding him hostage, huh?
Stripping away his rights and everything?
DEAN flinches in shock.
DEAN
I--
CAS
Dean, it’s fine--
He tries not to laugh.
DEAN
--I’m not-- You know, I didn't mean that.
DEAN laughs, but his eyes are wide with alarm while he searches CAS for any signs of anger or rejection.
CAS
I know.
SAM laughs.
SAM
Whatever, dude.
It’s not that big a deal.
He shrugs.
I'm honestly just happy you got him out of the Empty.
DEAN
Really?
After all that?
Now, it's not a big deal?
SAM shrugs again. CAS opens his mouth to say something, most likely to try to calm DEAN down, but clearly thinks the better of it and simply sighs instead.
SAM
Yeah, I mean, as long as you let everyone know he's back now and, I don't know, drop the gag and zip ties…
DEAN
Dude, stop.
Just ‘cause I've been the only poor bastard being subjected to Cas's one-sided tête-à-tête for two damn days, don't mean he's being treated like a freakin’ P.O.W.
SAM
He agree with that?
CAS looks to be bored with being the topic of the brothers' arguing, he shrugs nonchalantly.
CAS
I suppose…
DEAN
He “supposes”.
Whatever, he can ditch whenever he wants.
Guy’s too weak to make the leap at the moment, but if you guys would rather play host without me, have at it.
The angel jerks at the sudden turn.
CAS
I--
SAM
I mean, I'm not gonna say no…
I was just mainly just tryna rile you up, though--
CAS
--Good.
If it's okay, as much as I appreciate the offer…
DEAN leers at his brother.
DEAN
Yeah, sorry, Sammy, he likes me better.
He shrugs and pushes out his lower lip, smugly. SAM laughs.
SAM
Oh, no.
How unexpected.
His voice drips with sarcasm.
Moving on to more shocking news…
He sighs.
You look at the group chat with mom yet?
DEAN
That why my phone’s been getting my pocket all nice and tingly?
CAS raises an eyebrow.
SAM
Gross, but yeah… I guess.
DEAN
Lemme guess, house fulla hunters, we're outta beer, and she wanted us to do a run on the way back?
SAM
Not exactly.
More house full of hunters, dad had to grab mom and haul ass before someone murdered him in cold blood.
DEAN
She says that, or you just makin’ assumptions?
Maybe they just wanted to go stay somewhere a bit more romantic.
You saw what they were like when we magic pearled 'em back together.
DEAN avoids CASTIEL’S gaze again as the angel watches him with a look of pity.
SAM
I mean, Charlie said that Dad went off at Bobby, though, right?
DEAN
Yeah, well, we don't know what Bobby did to make the guy blow a top in the first place.
Could’a just done something like feed your new fish too often… or something.
SAM
Kinda seems like wishful thinkin’...
DEAN shrugs nonchalantly, he's not denying that.
DEAN
So what now?
How do we politely kick everyone out to get some quality family time?
SAM bursts into laughter at his brother's absurdity. DEAN simply watches him, not an ounce of humour found anywhere on his face.
SAM
What?
You can't be serious?
DEAN
Me?
He waves an imaginary circle around SAM’S face.
Mr. Netflix Comedy Special, here?
It's Mom and Dad, Sam.
You wanna kick ‘em to the curb?
Mom. And. Dad?
He repeats, as maybe SAM just needed to hear it properly.
SAM
Dean, they left… they're already gone…
We have people here-- family-- we can't just tell them to leave.
DEAN huffs.
DEAN
I think they'd understand, dude.
SAM
They shouldn't have to!
DEAN
Just ‘cause you're pissed they left?
What?
You rather they stayed, and Dad got ganked in his sleep before we even got a chance to see him?
SAM
That's not what I’m saying!
They can stay at whatever hotel or-or Airbnb they want.
We stay here.
Everyone who wants to stay here can stay here.
We can meet Mom and Dad out whenever or wherever they want.
I just don't want to-- No. I refuse to-- force anyone to leave here just so that we can have Dad's shitty vibes fucking up the--
DEAN
Oh, his vibes!
Now it's vibes alone that does it?!
SAM
Please, Dean, please, I'm begging you…
He sighs in desperation.
Don't let him get back into your head...
The anger and hurt in DEAN'S eyes blaze at his younger brother as whole minutes pass. Eventually, however, a look of pure love and acceptance and years of understanding displayed so easily on SAM'S face eventually wins out. DEAN scowls.
DEAN
You message them then.
See if we can get dinner out somewhere.
SAM nods.
You gotta invite Eileen too, though.
Let her meet the in-laws.
SAM
Dude, we're not even dating…
DEAN
No, you're both just madly in love with one another…
I swear to god, Sam…
He points at his brother and narrows his eyes.
If you fumble this, I will never let you live it down.
SAM chuckles.
SAM
How about I just work up to asking her out for a one-on-one first?
Get in at least one good date before I scare her off with the old man.
DEAN flicks his eyes up but nods in reluctant agreement.
DEAN
Fine…
It's a deal.
He grins, looking between SAM and CASTIEL.
Look at us!
Who'd've ever thought any of us would say those words without bein’ ‘bout to head off to the chopping block, huh?
BLACKOUT
Chapter 10: "Putting The Band Back Together" part 4 B
Summary:
Out Of The Darkness Into The Fire.
Chapter Text
INT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - BASEMENT - AFTERNOON.
SAM, DEAN, and CAS manage to make their way to the basement without bumping into any of the bunker's new inhabitants. DEAN gets to work on drawing out the sigil in chalk while SAM puts together a bowl of ingredients, so commonly used in this part of the bunker, that the boys needn't even make the trip to the storage room. CAS simply watches on from the sidelines. DEAN finishes off the sigil, tosses aside the chalk, and wipes his hands on his jeans.
DEAN
Alright then, we all good?
SAM
Let's do this.
He flicks open a pocket knife and slices into his already wounded thumb, gaining a set jaw and back and forth of the head from DEAN. SAM lets his blood drip into the bowl.
Attenrobendum eos, ad consiendrum, ad ligandum eos, pariter et solvendum, et ad congregantum eos coram me.
DEAN pulls his Zippo out of his pocket, flicks it and throws it into the bowl as SAM groans, unfolds himself from where he crouches, and steps backward to stand beside the other men.
DEAN
Annndddd now we wait…
SAM purses his lips and flashes his brows up.
SAM
And now we wait.
DEAN sighs and rolls his head lazily on his neck, letting it lead him over to the table to lean against it.
So…
About that empty deal you made, Cas?
He smirks, but DEAN inhales with tremendous effort, and SAM'S smile vanishes. CAS glances over at the wall, where the empty came from, to take him away for what he’d always assumed would be the last time. DEAN huffs, then lowers his head. When he raises it again, his face is contorted into a furrowed brow, head tilt and squinty-eyed impersonation of CASTIEL.
DEAN
Yes, Sam.
DEAN speaks in a surprisingly accurate imitation of the angel.
It is me, Castiel--
CAS turns to where DEAN has perched himself on the table.
--Speaking through, Dean.
CAS crosses his arms.
I am happy to tell you all about it.
SAM narrows his eyes, with uncertainty, at his brother.
My deal with the empty was that Jack would be brought back to life, and the empty would take me in his place, but it would only take me when I experienced a moment of true happiness.
CAS’S eyes widen at DEAN, surprised that he is, indeed, sharing the truth.
Not unlike how Angel, from the hit 90s television show, Buffy, was cursed--
SAM looks around, unfocused, as he searches his memory for details of the TV show.
--I got laid for the first time ever or “popped my cherry” as Dean would put it, and let's just say, the empty’s blackness wasn't the only sticky liquid I was covered in when I died.
CAS turns back to the brick wall in irritation. SAM rolls his eyes, then considers his brother's words.
SAM
How much of that is actually true, Dean?
DEAN shrugs. When he speaks again, he does so having dropped his act.
DEAN
Well, I'll tell you what, if Rowena ever shows and this spell actually works…
You and Cas can chat for as long as you'd like about Castiel’s top hundred-and-one dumbest ideas of all time, over a nice hot matcha latte… and leave me the hell out of it.
SAM scoffs.
SAM
Matcha latte?
Sick burn, Dude.
DEAN shrugs and pops his tongue.
DEAN
You do know I can handle this alone, right?
Kinda rude you being here, hiding away in the basement, when Eileen just put herself out there for you like that.
CAS
He’s scared.
SAM
I--
She’ll still be there after--
DEAN
--Don’t be a baby, Sam.
Go.
He flicks his hand at him.
Face your fears.
We'll be fine here without you.
SAM scoffs.
SAM
I can't.
DEAN
You mean, you won't?
SAM
N--
I--
Fine, I won't.
So what?
DEAN
Why the hell not?
SAM keeps his mouth clamped shut and shakes his head at the ceiling in frustration.
CAS
He’s. Scared.
DEAN
Got it, Cas.
Heard you the first time.
DEAN sighs.
What are you scared’s gonna happen, Sammy?
SAM raises an eyebrow.
SAM
Really?
DEAN widens his eyes and lifts his shoulders, and his brother blurts out a single huff of a laugh.
I dunno, Dean, maybe like everyone I ever even kissed… she'll die?
DEAN
Okay, bit of an over-exaggeration, don't you think, Meryl Streep?
CAS
Not by much…
DEAN shoots CAS a look, then drags his gaze back toward his brother.
DEAN
Sammy, you have a shot here at some kind of real happiness.
Thought you were s’posed to be the smart one, you really gonna--
SAM
--Look, guys.
We get a lead on how to get Jack back and end Chuck for good this time?
I’ll be down on one knee the moment all of it ends.
DEAN beams.
Until then, I--
He sighs.
I just--
ROWENA
--Want to try bedding a hot MILF who happens to also be the Queen of Hell?
Oh, Samuel, how many times do I have to say that your advances are useless--
Her eyes fall upon DEAN as he pulls himself off the table, and she lets out a gasp.
What's this?!
Dean Winchester, finally back in the land of the living?
And not only that, but carrying along the angel Castiel, who, also, up until now, was known to be deceased?
CAS
Hello, Rowena.
DEAN
Yeah, Hi.
Thanks for finally turning up, only took you five minutes this time.
You been demoted?
ROWENA
Hardly.
I'm just an efficient ruler and have got things running even more smoothly since we last spoke, so I have a lot more free time on my hands nowadays.
Just wanted to make our dear Sam, here, sit tight a moment so that he wouldn't get the impression that I've been waiting around for a call from him for… a while now.
Considering I gave him all of my earthly magic, and he's just dropped off the face of the earth in return, and all.
DEAN
She what?
SAM grimaces.
ROWENA
Aye.
How do you think he was healing all those people that popped into that wee li’l Wellness business of his, through juice cleanses and acupuncture?
Samuel is my star pupil.
Or he was until he started missing our weekly lessons.
SAM
I was… a bit busy.
ROWENA
I see that, yes.
You do all this, then?
Has the student finally become the master, and you're here to show me how to crack my son out of the empty?
DEAN mumbles under his breath.
DEAN
Awkward.
SAM
Uh, no, um, actually this wasn't me, it was, um…
He points at THE CAMERA.
ROWENA
Oh.
She tuts.
How rude of you not to introduce us, queen of Hell, but you can call me Rowena, and you are?
There is a brief pause in which all eyes look directly down THE CAMERA lens.
DEAN
Yeah, they're not really the chatty type…
More into random resurrections and forced cryptic visions.
SAM
So, they brought back a whole heap of people and then showed Dean the way to bring back Cas.
ROWENA
They have a very strange aura.
Nothing like I've ever seen before.
Where did you say they came from?
DEAN
No idea.
Found them lurking in heaven.
He sighs.
But back to the whole resurrection thing.
As you can see, I've managed part one of the plan to get Cas back up and at ‘em.
CAS
Part two of the plan includes you.
SAM
But maybe if you ask, they can show you a way to get Crowley out?
In exchange for--
ROWENA
--Save it, Samuel.
Castiel's already mentioned that you need me.
Whatever it is I'm in.
SAM
Oh.
He bares his teeth in an awkward smile.
It's not that big of a deal, and I can help.
We just wanted to know if you had a way to bring Cas's body back?
Maybe the spell Jack used when he tried to bring back our mom?
ROWENA
The Necromantiorum?
She fluffs her hair out of boredom.
That's not how that spell works, boys.
The spell itself was designed to bring someone back to life.
Yes, Jack managed to bring back your mother's shell, but that was an accident.
DEAN swallows audibly.
DEAN
You sayin’ you can't do it?
ROWENA
I didn't say that…
CAS
You want Crowley out first.
ROWENA
You always were the most perceptive of the three, Castiel.
Sam pouts subtly.
DEAN
You know you don't have to do the whole--
He waves his hand up and down.
--Queen of hell thing, right?
We ain't that anti-busting Crowely outta dead demon jail.
You just need his blood and the blood of the vessel to do the spell Lucifer made to get into the empty.
ROWENA
And you're supposing I'm carrying a vial of my son's blood around, are you?
DEAN
I mean…
SAM
Are you not?
CAS
It does seem to go with the whole “witch” thing.
DEAN
Sammy and I even have a couple of our own vials hidden ‘round the place.
ROWENA places her hands on her hips.
ROWENA
Fergus and I didn't exactly have the kind of relationship where we could trust one another with each other's bodily fluids.
DEAN huffs a laugh toward CAS, who seems unfazed. DEAN then elaborates.
DEAN
Gross… sounds… wrong.
CAS sighs grandly.
CAS
Then why exactly do you want him back?
DEAN rolls his eyes at CAS’S lack of interest.
ROWENA
Maybe because he's my son?
Do we have to go through all of this again, boys?
You think awfully low of me, don't you.
Am I going to give Fergus back the throne upon his return?
Of course not.
SAM squints, unable to determine how there may be information he is not privy to, before remembering CAS can talk to ROWENA directly without him hearing.
Just because we've never been besties doesn't mean I wanted the man dead.
I grew to enjoy having the wee boy around, always trying to puff his tiny chest about at others.
It was quite sweet to watch him grow into a place where I could finally consider acknowledging his presence socially.
She sighs.
Children are supposed to outlive their parents and considering I’m the leader of the eternally damned, it's not bloody right that I can't revive my own son.
Have you forgotten I went on that tinsy killing spree just so I could speak to Death about returning my dear boy to this earth?
Fat lot of good that did.
At least this Gordian knot may provide some way to make right this cosmic wrong.
SAM
Right, well, fair enough…
Crowley, before he--
He told us he hated being king of hell, anyway.
Sam shrugs, then narrows his eyes in thought.
You have his bones, right?
ROWENA
I do.
SAM
Then, surely we can work with that?
ROWENA
We, now, is it?
SAM adjusts his footing.
SAM
Like Dean said.
We don't mind it if he's out.
DEAN
Better the demon you know…
SAM
Dean, what else do we need to do the spell?
DEAN
Uh, nothin’.
Just the words.
I think I still have ‘em here…
He shoves his hand into his jacket, pulls out a dirty tissue, an empty packet of hot sauce and the piece of paper with the spell written on it.
It's, uh, qui dormiunt ad Dominum formosum, nexus noster restitutus est. Surgas ex abysso, in lumine existas?
ROWENA
“To the one who slept at the mercy of the Lord, our bond is now restored. Rise from the depths and into the light.”
You said Lucifer came up with that?
Not exactly the words of a great poet, but I think I can work with it…
Now, I'll just need Fergus’s vessel, which you left in that apocalypse world, correct?
She looks at her nails.
Well, off you pop, then.
DEAN
You’re kidding, right?
DEAN grunts.
ROWENA
Do I look like I'm joking?
She huffs.
I have to at least have his favourite vessel for him, if I have to break it to him that his own mother has taken over his kingdom in his absence, and couldn’t even manage to figure out a way to bring him back until years later… Can you not imagine the indignity, the humiliation?
No, he needs to see that I’ve put in effort; that I am still a formidable opponent.
SAM
Right… and we’re supposed to get there, how exactly?
CAS
Michael.
DEAN clicks his fingers at CAS’S reminder and points at the angel.
DEAN
Adam... Right…
SAM'S face contorts in confusion, then releases as he nods in realisation of CAS’S silent words.
ROWENA
Well, whatever it is you're going to do, hurry along.
Her hands fly back to her hips.
You can summon me when you need help opening a rift.
Unless you think you're ready to try magic that advanced on your own now, Sam?
He scoffs, with a smug smile, evidently, the spell is "child’s play".
SAM
We might need you here to keep the rift open while we go through, like last time…
This is all under the assumption that the other world's even still exist… with Chuck still being in play… being back in play?
He shakes his head in exasperation.
DEAN
Damn, Sammy all those concussions finally getting to you?
I went to one of those other worlds, remember?
Mom and Dad as kids.
The Akrida…
I mean, unless Chack has been busy killing everyone off again…
CAS winces at DEAN’S title.
CAS
You have the interdimensional--
SAM
--Wait a minute, we have a way to make sure the other worlds are still there for certain before we go diving into nothingness head first.
ROWENA looks thrilled at the news... and the way it's being relayed. CAS tries again
CAS
Yes. The interdimen--
SAM
--That old telescope in the library, Dean. Remember the nymph, um, Mrs. Butters?
DEAN grins.
DEAN
Lemme guess…
He winks at CAS.
Interdimensional telescope?
ROWENA
Samuel, would you mind running upstairs and taking a peep for us right now?
That way, if there truly is no world to retrieve Fergus’s vessel's remains, we can get started on a plan B?
SAM
Uh, yeah, sure.
He frowns.
No worries.
ROWENA
Thank you ever so much.
SAM hesitantly makes his way from the basement, glancing back at his brother for reassurance, before closing the door behind him.
Good.
Now that we're alone…
DEAN hums in apprehension.
Are you sure that you two really want me to bring back Castiel's vessel?
DEAN finches in shock.
CAS
Yes.
CAS growls.
Right?
He looks to DEAN.
DEAN
Wha-- Yes!
Of course!
ROWENA
Hmm… Really?
You're not enjoying it; the closeness?
The feeling of being completely, truly, one?
DEAN
I--
DEAN snorts, his eyes shift back and forth as he considers ROWENA'S words for a moment.
What is this…
Why're you tryin’ to get outta making Cas’s vessel?
ROWENA
So little trust after all this time?
I'm simply trying to help by offering up a slightly more unconventional option that you may have been uncomfortable acknowledging to one another as an alternative.
She shakes her head.
Forgive me if I've overstepped, I suppose I consider you both friends, considering all that we’ve been through together and just want to make sure you're not doing something you'll regret for the sake of what you may, or may not believe is expected of you socially.
DEAN and CAS share a suspicious glance.
CAS
Thank you?
He is uncertain how to respond.
But, no.
I would very much prefer to have my own body back.
This is… inconvenient… to say the least.
DEAN
Okay, wow, Cas.
You could have just thanked her and said no…
ROWENA'S eyes glint, a delighted spark, lit up by the drama. CAS is instantly troubled.
CAS
…Was that offensive?
I didn't mean that I'm not enjoying the time I get to spend here with you, Dean.
I'm incredibly grateful to spend any time with you, at all, you know that.
DEAN
Do I?
He laughs.
If we're being honest, kind of always seems like you're literally dying to ditch me, man.
The shock CAS wears is plain to see. He opens his mouth to respond but falls short. DEAN licks his lips and eyes CAS in a challenge. The angel makes a second attempt at replying, but ROWENA speaks first.
ROWENA
See, this is my point, exactly.
Poor Castiel whoes entire self-worth is based upon keeping Dean “Abandonment Issues” Winchester, safe…
You'd have thought you'd be delighted to be sharing your flesh.
DEAN
Okay. That's--
He shakes his head.
We're actually good with being two normal, separate--
He motions with his hands for emphasis.
--beings, thanks.
Right, Cas?
CAS
Exactly.
It's been a while since I’d shared a vessel with someone.
With Jimmy, I was incredibly selfish about it and drowned him inside his own body up until the moment he died.
I've since learned how cruel that was, and I refuse to do it again, not just to Dean… to anyone.
That being said, this experience has left me conscious of how much control I enjoy having over a physical body of my own.
DEAN
Yeah, and it sucks when I gotta use the little boys room.
DEAN grins lazily. ROWENA sighs.
ROWENA
How incredibly mundane of you both.
Oh well, if you won't utilize this time together properly, that's your prerogative.
CASTIEL appears to find this insulting.
CAS
We're utilizing it just fine.
ROWENA
Barely.
Castiel, you're tucked away, so small in the corner of Dean's head, I can hardly see you.
Imagine how much better you'd both be feeling if you let yourself spread out a little.
Stretched your legs out, so to speak.
CAS grits his teeth and evades eye contact.
CAS
I’m fine.
DEAN
Wait, what does she--
He addresses ROWENA.
What do you mean?
ROWENA
You know you can share, Dean?
You on the wheel, but Castiel feeling everything too?
Not just seeing what you see and hearing what you hear, but flowing all throughout your body.
CAS is on the defense.
CAS
He's also allowed me to taste whatever food he eats and even choose--
Hearing this out loud, seems to have hit a nerve, and awoken some feelings of guilt and shame in DEAN.
DEAN
--Hold on a second.
You-- Cas, are you really just crammed up as a-- a tiny ball in my brain?
CAS
N--
It's--
ROWENA
--He is.
ROWENA scowls before CAS can attempt to downplay the issue.
At this rate, I'd suspect that by the time you return with whatever remains of Fergus’s vessel, and I work on recreating a vessel for Castiel, he may simply be too weak to survive the transition into his new, old body.
DEAN
The hell, Cas?
To DEAN, this is an injustice.
CAS
I told you: I wouldn't manifest myself anywhere you haven't consented to.
DEAN rubs at his temples.
DEAN
And what?
I was supposed to just guess that meant you would be shrunk down so puny that you can't even gain hit points?
CAS
I’m fine…
He chides.
ROWENA
Are you, though?
ROWENA'S voice is gentle and sincere, but the twinkle in her eye remains.
If any danger were to befall poor Dean?
Would you be able to save him?
To heal him.
CAS
Rowena, stop.
He attempts an intimidating glare, but his heart is clearly not truly committed to it.
DEAN
No, Cas, you stop.
Rowena's right.
ROWENA
Always am.
She shrugs nonchalantly.
DEAN
So, yeah.
Go on, man, spread yourself out.
If not for your own sake--
Say, I get shanked in apocalypse world, there's no point both of us dying, right?
CAS sighs.
CAS
I-- I’m not sure…
His eyes dart about, revealing his reluctance
I’m worried having that much scope over the confines of your body and mind may result in an unintentional hijacking of your wheel, as Rowena put it.
DEAN scrunches his face in disbelief.
DEAN
Cas, I trust you.
You yank the wheel without my say so, I'll be bitchin’ 'bout it so loud you won't be able to not notice.
CAS frowns timidly.
CAS
You're… certain about this?
DEAN
Obviously.
He rolls his eyes, and CAS takes a few anxious steps toward DEAN as a visual cue.
CAS
Okay… Brace yourself.
DEAN scoffs at this, but CAS ignores him and closes his eyes gently so he can better focus. DEAN’S smug grin falls in confusion as his pupils dilate, he shudders, and a giggle bursts from his mouth, causing his hands to shoot up and clamp over his lips. CAS’S eyes flutter open, and DEAN clears his throat. He then sniffs loudly and straightens himself out. DEAN swallows with tremendous effort, and CAS’S psychic imprint swallows at the same time, although it seems much easier for the angel.
DEAN
Okay, yeah…
He chuckles.
Hey there, Cas.
CAS beams at DEAN.
CAS
Hello.
DEAN’S pupils are still huge. He breathes slowly, and CAS breathes along with him.
This feels so much better, thank you.
DEAN nods vigorously.
DEAN
‘Course, man.
Any time.
ROWENA looks between the two with a sly smile.
ROWENA
So, now.
They both jump at the sound of her voice.
You boys still want another body between you?
DEAN huffs, grumpily.
DEAN
I-- Yes…
We-- Right?
Cas?
CAS
Obviously.
… No offense.
DEAN shakes his head, clearing it.
DEAN
Right, no, obviously.
He chortles.
None taken.
Two guys, one body, sounds like an insane porno or-or a dark web snuff film… not the ideal living situation.
ROWENA
Fine.
She gives them an eye roll.
I suppose I can help with Castiel’s vessel, then.
I’ll need some of his DNA, though.
DEAN
Uhh, right, well, I’m sure we’ll have somethin’ lying ‘round the place.
DEAN grins at CAS, who doesn't seem as worried about this as DEAN, however, he is now conscious of DEAN’S feelings of uncertainty now that they share a body. The angel doubles down on DEAN’S facade.
CAS
Thank you, Rowena.
Truly.
I am so incredibly grateful for your help with this.
SAM enters the room again, with BOBBY and ADAM in tow. The latter gripping the pewter bowl and etching of DEAN'S writing. ROWENA simply manages a smile in reply to CAS before SAM speaks.
SAM
Telescope works.
He guffaws at DEAN.
Shit’s crazy.
Took a minute to even figure out what the hell I was looking at.
BOBBY
Surprised that Sam managed to work out how to use it, lookin’ at it was like taking the brown acid.
ADAM
Like one of those kaleidoscope things you'd get in gift shops as a kid.
ADAM paces the room, looking around at the various content on the shelves.
BOBBY
Hey, Dean, long time no see.
He joins DEAN over by the table.
DEAN
Bobby.
He gives him a curt nod.
What's it been, five days? Five years?
BOBBY
Yeah, who can really say, what with upstairs' screwy timeline…
DEAN’S eyes wander back over to CASTIEL.
You doing okay, kid?
DEAN
Hmm…?
He drags his almost completely black orbed gaze back.
Yeah.
I'm all sunshine and roses.
ROWENA
Well, as interesting as this all is, I have much more pressing matters to attend to, as do you, may I remind you.
Now that we know that there is, indeed, a world for you to travel to, you'd best get a move on.
She looks between SAM, DEAN and CASTIEL.
Call me when you're ready to open up the rift.
And with that, she vanishes from the room.
SAM
Great.
He sighs.
So what, Dean, you just tap a vein, and that counts as Cas’s blood… which counts as Michael's blood?
DEAN shrugs.
DEAN
You tell me, Gandalf, you're the wizard.
BOBBY
I’m sorry-- what's this now?
DEAN
Oh, Sammy, not tell you?
Yeah, he's gone full Harry Potter, apparently.
Taken on weekly classes with the Queen of hell.
CAS narrows his eyes at DEAN, who shrugs at the angel and smiles in return.
BOBBY
You what!?
SAM purses his lips.
SAM
It's not how it sounds--
BOBBY
Better damn not be!
Because it sounds like you've lost your damned mind and made a demon deal with the worst of the worst!
SAM glares at his older brother.
SAM
No!
She's a friend…
Dean... tell him...
DEAN
I dunno, Sam.
He smirks.
She said she'd given you all her earthly magic's man.
I don't even know what that means…
He lies.
CAS
… Really, Dean…
SAM
It's--
Magic do’n't just disappear; it goes somewhere new when you die.
When Rowena died, she gave me her magic, her energy.
She can't use her natural power any more anyway as a demon, and taking on all those souls when she died, that and being queen of hell…
She's still the most powerful witch there is… just with demon magic now, instead of the natural magic she was born with.
BOBBY
I don’t know about this one, Sam.
DEAN squints at his brother.
DEAN
You get all purple and glowy?
BOBBY looks SAM up and down as if picturing DEAN’S imagery. SAM huffs.
SAM
Whatever.
Dean tell you he’s Cas’s meat suit?
CAS
--Oh, lovely.
So, I'm being used as an insult, now.
DEAN’S, primarily pupiled eyes, bulge at SAM, and BOBBY turns abruptly, now scanning DEAN, clearly continuing to let his imagination guide his fears.
DEAN
Nice, Sammy.
He gives him a thumbs up.
Very expert deflecting there, dude.
Learn that one in court mandated-therapy?
SAM'S mouth falls open, and BOBBY spins back to the younger brother.
SAM
At least I've been to therapy, Dean!
You’d rather repress your emotions and live so deeply in denial that you’d rather commit suicide than admit to yourself that you--
BOBBY
--ENOUGH!
BOBBY belows, red-faced. The boys flinch.
I don't give a rats ass what you two have been up to since I died, but this stops now!
You're both grown ass men who can make your own decisions.
The boys look at their feet, full of embarrassment and guilt.
The hell is wrong with you, two?!
He shakes his head.
Sam, you say this witch shit that you're doing is kosher?
As long as you don't start sacrificing virgins, we’ll take it.
And so what if Dean's carryin’ Cas?
Hell, even I owe the guy at least that much.
SAM cringes in shame. BOBBY turns and points at the oldest brother.
As for you, Dean.
You gonna rile up your brother for dumb ass reasons, you best be sure you can take what he’s prepared to throw back in your face.
DEAN shrugs in a wild-eyed attempt at a detached aloofness. BOBBY shakes his head.
Now, show some goddamn manners.
The two o’ you idjits ain’t even said hello to your brother yet.
SAM
This whole argument started because we're trying to get Michael back for Adam--
DEAN splutters a laugh.
DEAN
Hey Adam, full disclosure, we actually want Michael back so we can use his grace to crack into the apocalypse world.
He points a thumb at Sam standing behind him, and makes a “This fuckin’ guy” face.
Dude, betrayed our asses and if this weren't all just to get Cas his body back… I’d maybe rather he stayed in the empty, where we can actually guarantee he won't do anything to make everything worse… again.
CAS sighs.
CAS
--So, you're fine rescuing Crowley, but not Michael?
DEAN waves him off.
ADAM
--Thanks for the honesty, I guess?
Kind of feel like you should be more angry at Chuck than at Michael for that one, though.
SAM
Oh, don't worry, we are…
Hi, by the way.
He sighs. He’s completely emotionally exhausted.
And sorry… things have been… a lot lately.
ADAM
You're telling me…
BOBBY
Good…
Well, now that we’ve all decided to stop acting like three-year-olds…
What do we need to do to get this archangel outta wherever and back into your brother, boys?
DEAN
Well… Sam wasn't wrong…
I just gotta get my bleed on, right, Cas?
CAS shrugs.
CAS
I've never done this before.
DEAN
He says he thinks it'll work.
DEAN marches over to the youngest of JOHN'S offspring and snatches the bowl from his vice grip.
CAS
Why do I even bother talking?
DEAN spares CAS a grin, then leads ADAM over to CAS’S wall. He gently pushes his brother down onto his knees, plops the bowl in front of him, and crouches beside him.
DEAN
Don't worry, Adam, this is gonna work.
He claps him on the shoulder, then grabs a knife from the back pocket of his jeans and flips it open before plunging it into his barely healed finger, pulling open the wound. CAS closes his eyes as if concentrating on something, and DEAN gasps as he feels CAS intentionally run his grace through DEAN’S blood before it starts to pool from DEAN'S finger.
CAS
It's working so far.
He permits himself a smile.
DEAN
Sammy, if you'd be so kind as to chuck a salt ring ‘round us, it’d be much appreciated.
SAM jumps, as if shocked at being allowed to interfere.
SAM
Right, uh--
His feet lead him over to the giant bag of road salt, and he lugs it up against his stomach. He then takes it over to his brother's and begins sifting it out around them both, expertly, as DEAN holds out his knife to ADAM. The youngest makes a face at it as if concerned for the sanitary quality of knife sharing, but takes it anyway with an exhalation and drags it horizontally through his wrist.
DEAN
Okay, emo kid, spell doesn't need that much!
DEAN sheds his jacket and makes to apply it to ADAM'S wound, but he shrugs out of the older man's grasp and holds the note paper at eye level, all the while blood runs down his arm like a river.
ADAM
Qui dormiunt ad Dominum formosum, nexus noster restitutus est. Surgas ex abysso, in lumine existas.
Michael, I consent to holding you forever.
DEAN swallows and glances at CAS, who is engrossed in witnessing ADAM and MICHAEL’S reunion. DEAN’S glance then turns to a stare, completely oblivious to the opening of a portal from the empty. He only turns back once the massive glowing eruption of light causes him to grimace and shield his eyes. ADAM’S body rises from the centre of his chest, and when he falls again his eyes glow for a moment before they return to normal. DEAN does a double-take as he looks upon the form within his youngest brother, a glowing light emits from within ADAM'S entire body like a depiction of an angel in a Renaissance painting.
CAS
Michael.
MICHAEL stands, pulling ADAM up with him. His eyes boil with rage for a moment, then silently dissipates.
MICHAEL
Fine…
We’re even.
DEAN blinks at the archangel above him and shakes his head. SAM hastily kicks a gap into the salt circle. DEAN groans as he rises. He laughs awkwardly.
DEAN
Family.
Am I right?
BLACKOUT.
END OF PART FOUR
Chapter 11: "Putting The Band Back Together" part 5 A
Summary:
How To Win Friends And Influence Monsters.
Chapter Text
INT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - HALLWAY - EVENING.
SAM, DEAN, CAS and BOBBY shuffle slowly down the hallway, laughing about something WE missed. MICHAEL and ADAM are nowhere to be seen, presumably taking some time alone.
DEAN
In my defense, it was winter.
DEAN explains through a chuckle, causing the men’s laughter to increase. SAM stops walking altogether and doubles over, holding his stomach.
Alright, don’t hurt yourself, man.
Not that funny.
Yet, he, too, continues to laugh, his still enlarged pupils framed by smile lines. SAM opens his mouth to retort something, yet blubbers out another roar of laughter.
JODY
I can see that you three didn’t even wait til we got here to start the party.
The men glance up toward the end of the hallway. CAS sighs at the mention of three men, DEAN throws his hands in the air, and he and SAM make elated sounds of general merriment at the sight of her.
DEAN
Us four didn’t wait...
If you’re counting the baby on board.
DEAN places a hand on his lower belly, CAS smirks at DEAN in an affectionate chagrin, and SAM splutters another laugh, this time at JODY’S confusion.
BOBBY
Jody.
JODY
Bobby.
Get in here, you.
She wraps him in a hug and squeezes him tight, rocking them both side to side and lifting a foot, like a pendulum. She eventually frees him and pulls in the next closest person, SAM, who also receives a big squeeze, however, this time with no apparent attempt to move the giant’s frame.
SAM
Good to see you, Jody!
JODY
You, too, Sam.
You’re looking much better!
She lowers an arm and, with the other, playfully and gently swipes her knuckles to his jaw.
SAM
Thanks.
He steps back and clears his throat.
DEAN
My turn for a Jody hug.
DEAN grins, steps between the two and physically pulls her in. She starts a little, and SAM chuckles. CAS smiles as he feels the hug through DEAN.
SAM
What Dean was trying to say is…
He pats DEAN’S shoulder twice.
Cas is riding Dean until we get his body--
He blinks.
--Vessel-- back.
DEAN drops his arms and spins around to stare up at his brother.
DEAN
Dude, riding?
SAM laughs and shrugs.
JODY
Oh.
She takes a moment, staring at them in a daze, before it clicks.
Oh!
Wow, that’s great!
Wow, I-- it’s amazing to have all of you back!
She seems unable to stop grinning. SAM’S smile wanes in a quiver. DEAN lifts a shoulder, acting like it's no big deal.
God-- I can’t believe it.
It’s so good to see you again, guys!
CAS eyes her affectionately.
DEAN
You, too, Jody.
CAS
She’s lovely.
DEAN
Oh, uh, Cas says “Hi", by the way.
JODY
Oh, you can--
Oh!
She shakes her head in disbelief.
Hi-Hi, Cas, wow.
SAM
--Wait a second… How are we seeing you, Jody?
Did somebody call you?
We-we were planning on getting around to it because there's some things we gotta fill you in on, but uh…
He glances between THE CAMERA and his brother, who has a raised brow and is waiting patiently for SAM to catch up.
Wait a second…
Dean, in the garage, earlier… did we…?
CAS
You still haven’t told him about the conversation we had with our new friend via Angel Radio the other night…
DEAN cringes, and all eyes fall on him.
DEAN
…Right.
He sighs.
Uh, yeah, Sammy.
Cheat codes, here, would’a thought they were doin’ us a favor.
Like the beer in your office, and the cut and paste whenever Jack is around.
JODY
Cheat codes, really?
That's what you’re going with?
CAS
--Chuck.
DEAN
Huh?
JODY’S eyes flicker between the men.
JODY
Who, me?
DEAN waves a hand, then points to where CASTIEL is projecting himself.
DEAN
Nah, Cas.
The angel seems initially shocked to take precedence in the public conversation, but he smiles.
… Go on, buddy.
DEAN pulls his lips in tight and angles his head as he catches himself at the use of the friendly moniker. CAS’S eyes crinkle as he beams. He opens his mouth to speak.
BOBBY
What’s he sayin’?
DEAN’S grin widens as he holds up a finger, and CAS shakes his head in light irritation before trying again.
CAS
Whenever Chuck is around…
His smile falls as he recalls the actual content of this conversation.
You said Jack…
Both DEAN and CAS swallow, their dilated eyes now filled with grief.
Jack, he-he wouldn’t do that.
DEAN
Yeah.
DEAN takes a moment to scan the group, who are waiting patiently for an update. He then turns back to CAS.
No, I know that…
DEAN smiles at the angel with worried warmth, then addresses the others.
I mean Chuck, obviously.
He closes an eye, rolls the other back and shakes his head.
Before… when I said Jack.
SAM purses his lips in SAM-ESQUE sentimentality and nods.
SAM
Right.
Well… uh, back to what you were asking earlier, Jody.
He spares DEAN, or perhaps CAS, another look of tenderness. His phone vibrates loudly in his pocket, and he stuffs a hand in, hanging it up without looking.
Uh--
He blinks, regaining focus.
We’ve been kind of calling them “friend,” like as in friend or foe… and, um, well... right now they’re being a friend.
He exhales.
But, uh, I don’t know if that’s something we really voted on, or anything.
BOBBY
Kinda unimaginative…
SAM
Wait a second, Dean…
If our friend here…
He throws an arm at where JODY stands, as if the gesture can replace the rest of the sentence.
… If they can bring them here.
What’s stopping us from using them as literal cheat codes?
What if they can help bring back Jack?
What's stopping us from getting them to take on Chuck?
JODY
They can do that?
All eyes are on DEAN again.
CAS
Dean…
DEAN
Yeah, Cas, I know.
DEAN sighs.
So, you’re gonna laugh...
He chuckles.
Uh, you know how I was… kind of trying to keep a lid on the whole Cas being back thing until he was walkin’ 'round in his own shoes?
SAM squints in predetermined irritation.
May have had a bit of a chat with ol’ friendly over there--
He gestures to THE CAMERA with a flick of his chin.
--up in Cas’ mind via Angel Radio…
He grins.
Either that or I was three million sheets to the wind…
Hell, maybe there were no sheets at all, a-and only wind.
BOBBY chimes in to keep the conversation on track.
BOBBY
What’d they say?
DEAN
Uh, right…
Lot of things.
Mainly rambled on about being a writer… but also about watching us?
SAMS brows shoot up.
SAM
A writer… like Chuck?
He scoffs.
And this didn’t worry you?
DEAN
No-- I mean--
Sam, let me finish…
He readjusts his footing.
They’re saying that Chuck wrote our lives up until a point, but that it wasn’t really Chuck?
Like, Chuck's just Jesus and-- and someone was writing him?
And now this friendo here--
He waves his hand in the direction of THE CAMERA.
--They’re the new writer's Jesus…
and Jack or-or-- Chuck, is like an old pre-written fire, and they're just here to help put out the flames and like…
give us bandages for burns-- but can’t unwrite the…
scars of the…
past…
burns…
and--
He takes in the faces staring blankly at him.
--and-- I don’t know!
He throws his arms up.
It was vague… and cryptic, and ripe with fire analogy.
Point is-- they said they hated the ending Chuck gave and just want us to be happy, which... plot twist, a highly powerful being actually on our side for once?
SAM
So, they can help us?
CAS
Chuck did say that writers lie.
DEAN considers this for a moment, then shakes his head.
DEAN
I think they can help, but only so much, you know?
Maybe, until we wipe Chuck from the map, they can’t be at full power or something?
Like, they gave me a way to bring Cas back, but didn't just pop him from the empty themselves, you know?
He inhales, eyeing CAS now as he continues.
They said they can keep us safe, which they’ve definitely been doing so far.
He drags his gaze back to the others.
Bringing everyone here?
Kind of seems like they’re tellin’ the truth.
SAM
I sort of figured that they could just be gathering an army…
DEAN appears transfixed at the worry spreading over CAS’S face.
BOBBY
Optimistic…
DEAN
I’m gonna go out on a limb and say it.
He rushes his next words in an exhalation.
I actually trust the thing--
He glances toward THE CAMERA.
--entity?
Person…?
He stumbles out a laugh and shrugs awkwardly.
SAM
Of course, you do--
DEAN recoils in shock. SAM huffs a laugh.
They got Cas back.
Mom… Dad--
He presents the man beside him.
--Bobby…
They’re bringing back everyone we ever cared about.
It’s like the way to win you over.
DEAN
Probably because they can?
DEAN raises his arms and slaps them back by his thighs in a frustrated shrug.
They wanna help us.
They said as much…
…in a whacked out, clear as mud, kinda way...
JODY
So we gotta figure out a way for them to write us some kinda help?
He indicates that JODY’S right with one vigorous hand.
DEAN
Yes.
He gestures at her again, sharply.
Thank you.
SAM considers the faces of each of those around him before uttering softly.
SAM
The God Killing Gun…
DEAN and CAS are instantly outraged.
CAS
No!
BOBBY
The what now?
SAM
Dean, listen--
DEAN
--No!
This is what I’m trying to say-- What we are trying to say, Sam!
He gestures between himself and the imprint of CAS that only he can see.
A gun that would kill Jack and take out whoever does the shooting?!
That’s really the best Chuck could offer?
He scoffs.
Fuck that shit.
We gotta aim higher, man!
This time, we keep everyone safe.
Play the game a little longer and come up with something awesome that we can get Cheat Codes to scribble down-- somethin’ that can actually help us--
Something that can help us all reach a real, safe and happy ending.
He counts his new hope out as rules on his fingers. One.
No more sacrificing ourselves because there’s no other option.
He points to his second finger.
No more two-dollar mystery deals.
He spreads his arms out.
Just happy endings all ‘round, capiche?
SAM bares his teeth and shares his head.
SAM
And we-- What?--
We just let Jack drown in his own body while we figure this out?!
DEAN
Call me an idiot Sam-witch, but I feel like the kid may just be holding his own.
He steals a glance at CAS’S sorrow-filled features before continuing with more gusto.
Think about it!
The other worlds are all still there.
Cheat Codes literally broke into heaven to come get me…
Why would Chuck let any of that happen?
I think as long as we don’t let Chuck get onto the fact we know he’s making a comeback…
Might be he thinks we’re just throwin’ a party now I’m back and are avoiding his ass because “Jack” wants to take me back up to the pearly gates.
SAM sighs.
SAM
Maybe… or maybe he’s planning some kind of revenge on us, for helping Jack absorb his creepy ass in the first place?
You really willing to risk that?
DEAN assesses the group. Each face looking drawn and grim.
DEAN
Nah.
He grins at them, concealing any stress he may be feeling.
Worst case scenario, Chuck’s jizzing in a popcorn bucket somewhere watchin’ as our poor, oblivious, friend here, is forced into some kind of fucked up collaborative storywriting.
Which, if that is the case, we can figure something out, but for now, it doesn’t change anything.
Cheat Codes is giving, and I, for one, am damn sure gonna take for once.
He huffs a laugh and raises his shoulders.
Get it while it's hot, ya know?
BOBBY
Fine.
He adjusts his stance.
If you’re right--
He shrugs at THE CAMERA.
Give me my wife back, then.
Jody’s husband and kid?
Kevin’s ex, Rufus, Charlie’s folks?
Hell, bring back Sam’s Jessica.
Any other damn sonnofabitch, Chuck decided to kill off for character development.
He shrugs again.
Well?
The group look around expectantly.
JODY
Maybe it takes some time?
DEAN
I’m sure they got their reasons.
SAM scoffs and pumps his brows.
What?
SAM
Maybe this “friend” is manipulating you, and you-you're so blinded by having everyone back here that you can’t even see straight!
DEAN
Oh, come on, Sam!
If you really think I’m all in on this, you’re the one who’s got their head up their ass!
I’m not saying it’s time to start sellin’ our artillery on eBay or anything…
Just holster ya damn gun for a second until we actually have a verified monster to hunt, here.
CAS
Ask him if he’s thought of any actual evidence to disprove our theory.
If he has any way to do this without the help of… Cheat Codes.
DEAN nods at CAS enthusiastically.
DEAN
Yeah, we’re all ears if you’ve got another way to get Jack back without using our resident novelist?
Or are you really wanting to shoot Jack with the God gun?
‘Cause him dead-- our kid, dead?
He shakes his head.
Gotta say, don’t see how that’s better than letting him tread water for a while, while we get our head on straight.
SAM sighs, and DEAN calms a little.
Look, Sam, I’d put all of my shiny new cash on the kid being able to sit tight and keep himself safe for a while.
And I am a betting man.
Which means more because I know what I’m talking about here, right?
The group look at DEAN, and it's safe to say his logic behind that particular DEANISM didn’t exactly fly.
Whatever…
Let's get to packin’ so we can get these bones from Bonerville before I die of old age.
DEAN starts walking and with a clattering echo throughout the hallway, he trips, almost falling flat on his face, but righting himself with a few staggering steps forward. He turns back to see what it is he tripped on and shakes his head slowly in disbelief.
Of fucckkkinggg course.
He lifts a femur bone and uses it to point at THE CAMERA.
Well… at least you let me get out the boner joke…
SAM’S phone starts to ring again, and this time he pulls it out of his pocket. He looks at it, then holds it up to show his brother so DEAN can see the caller ID. BOBBY takes the femur bone from DEAN'S grasp and hands it to JODY.
BOBBY
Jody and I got this.
He bends to start picking up the other bones one by one, then does a double-take, glancing up at the boys.
You two ought to take that.
DEAN
You sure?
DEAN and CAS crouch as DEAN begins assisting BOBBY, lifting each bone and placing them in the pile, now amassed in BOBBY’S arms.
JODY
Whatever you need.
She shrugs and joins the others down on the ground, grasping the last remaining few bones, and the three of them groan as they stand. SAM gifts them with a smile, then presses the answer button.
SAM
Hey, Mom.
DEAN and CAS strut over to the phone, and SAM presses the speaker button. The other two talk indistinctly as they retreat down the hallway and out of sight.
FADE OUT
Chapter 12: "Putting The Band Back Together" part 5 B
Summary:
The Girl Next Door.
Chapter Text
INT. CROWN VIEW MOTEL - EVENING.
MARY WINCHESTER sits on the edge of the floral print queen bed in a small hotel room. The walls are lined with faded wallpaper, the laminated bedside tables hold a lamp and an open beer on each. MARY grips her phone in both hands, so that JOHN, watching the TV on mute from his side of the bed, can still hear the conversation. He takes a swig of his beer and glances at MARY'S phone at the sound of SAM’S voice.
SAM
(Through the phone)
Hey, Mom.
MARY’S face lights up with joy.
MARY
Hey, Sam!
How are you?
DEAN
(Through the phone)
Hey, Mom.
You're on speaker.
Mary grins and twists toward JOHN, angling the phone closer, inviting him to talk. He stares at the phone. She shakes her head, grinning.
MARY
Hi, Dean!
You are, too.
She laughs.
How are you boys?
INT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - HALLWAY - EVENING.
SAM, DEAN, and CASTIEL, all gather around SAM’S phone.
SAM
Uh, yeah.
His eyes bulge and he takes a huge breath before continuing.
Good, I think?
Kind of hard to know.
Things have been pretty crazy lately, that's for sure…
DEAN, absentmindedly, takes a step closer to the phone, and CAS follows suit.
DEAN
--Crazy good, Sam means.
He bumps his shoulder against his brother.
Obviously.
SAM rolls his eyes.
INT. CROWN VIEW MOTEL - EVENING.
MARY
Obviously.
Her eyes dart to JOHN, who seems to have abandoned any interest in what was on the TV in favour of listening intently to their conversation.
Sorry to call, I know you must be pretty busy with all of… everything, but I figured we should talk about why your father and I aren't there at the bunker.
DEAN
(Through the phone)
Yeah… why is--
JOHN
--Come on, Mary, like they haven't already been filled in on everything by every one of their groupies?
DEAN
(Through the phone)
That you, Dad?
What, no, “Hello”?
JOHN
Sorry, boys.
He chuckles.
Your mother forgot to tell me that you'd be able to hear me speaking.
He shuffles over onto MARY'S side of the bed, lifting his beer high, careful to keep it from spilling. The mattress creaks loudly with each movement he makes.
INT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - HALLWAY - EVENING.
SAM
Oh, yeah.
He huffs a laugh.
I bet our phones look like alien tech to you, right, Dad?
DEAN freezes and his eyes slide slowly to SAM, as if waiting for the bomb that is JOHN WINCHESTER’S rage, to explode. It wouldn't be the first time that JOHN had lost it purely at the misinterpretation of one of SAM'S remarks as being disrespectful.
JOHN
(Through the phone)
This whole damn planet looks alien to me now, Sammy.
JOHN sighs, and DEAN can breathe again.
You kids know much about this, Elon Musk?
DEAN groans, and CAS tries to hide his smile out of pure reflex.
DEAN
Oh, no.
Please, Dad, don't get Sam started on his hero.
SAM cringes.
SAM
Well, actually…
He's a lot less cool than I thought.
Turns out he’s kind of a right-wing nut job, honestly.
MARY
Aw, I'm sorry, Sam.
SAM snorts.
SAM
Whatever, I just--
He scrubs a hand over his stubble.
--How are things with you guys?
DEAN
Hope things weren't too painful for you, here.
DEAN ignores the SAM and CAS'S matching set of disappointed looks.
INT. CROWN VIEW MOTEL - EVENING.
MARY'S eyes widen a little in acknowledgement, and she opens her mouth to speak, but JOHN gets in first. He leans in, hovering over the phone as he talks.
JOHN
Painful, no.
Why… someone say something?
Not an ounce of sarcasm in his tone. MARY frowns. There's silence on the other end of the phone call as the boys think of how they could possibly respond... Had he not just contradicted this feigned innocence only moments earlier?
SAM
(Through the phone)
Nobody's told us the full story, just that there was, uh--
DEAN
(Through the phone)
--an altercation or somethin’ but don't worry--
His voice gains a sharpness.
--like, I told Sammy earlier…
He chuckles, and his tone is suddenly lighter again.
We know you probably just forgot to put the toilet seat back down.
MARY eyes JOHN with uncertainty, aware of the palpable tension. JOHN gawks, then spares MARY a grin.
JOHN
More like, good ol’ Mr. Singer tried knockin’ my block off for the way I've treated you boys over the years.
He chuckles at the stunned silence from the other end of the phone.
Can’t say I blame him, though.
Being brought back down here and getting force-fed a highlight reel of my greatest failures as a parent?
That shit had me back all of five minutes and already searching the joint for a bullet to swallow--
MARY lifts a shaky hand from her phone and places it upon JOHNS outstretched leg.
DEAN
(Through the phone)
Dad--
JOHN
--I ain't finished, kid.
I wasthinkin’ ‘bout packin’ it in, but then I saw your mother.
He exhales.
Fresh as a daisy--
He places his hand on hers.
--like a damn miracle…
He stares at her as if she holds the secrets to the universe in her eyes.
… And I knew that it had to be you boys.
He inhales shakily.
So, Bobby can bitch and moan all he wants, but I reckon I must've done somethin’ right.
MARY flips her hand and clasps his, and he runs his thumb up and down the side of her grasp.
I’d do it all over again if it meant gettin’ us all back here, on earth, together.
His eyes start to well.
I am so damn proud of you boys.
MARY sniffs, her smile wobbling as she tries to hold back her own tears. There's an audible swallow from the other end of the line and a long stretch of silence.
SAM
(Through the phone)
About that--
DEAN
(Through the phone)
--We're just sorry it took so damn long to get here.
JOHN places his beer between his thighs and wipes his tears away with his spare hand.
JOHN
Hey, now, none of that, boy.
I know this ain't the first win you kids’ve got me.
Just hopin’ this one sticks.
He laughs. MARY places her phone beside her on the crisp sheets and leans over to retrieve her beer. She tosses it back.
SAM
(Through the phone)
The pearl?
You, uh, you remember that?
JOHN takes a pull from his beer, he speaks again after he swallows.
JOHN
For years, I thought it was just a dream.
Most all of the details were already gone by the time this thing here--
He glances at THE CAMERA.
--gave me a refresher on the whole ordeal.
He shakes his head.
One of the best days of my life, taken from me like some sick ass joke.
DEAN
(Through the phone)
We're so sorry about that--
JOHN
--We've already been through this, Dean.
Quit apologizing.
It's all been worthwhile just for us to get to this moment, right here.
There is another brief pause in conversation, JOHN and MARY stare into each other's eyes until SAM breaks the silence.
INT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - HALLWAY - EVENING.
SAM
So, um, Dean and I were wondering--
He clears his throat and looks to his brother for reassurance.
--If you're not too busy or-- or you, uh-- if you--
He chuckles.
Let me start again--
DEAN raises a brow.
--We were kind of hoping we could maybe all meet somewhere, tonight?
Get some dinner?
MARY
(Through the phone)
Oh, boys, we would love that.
JOHN
(Through the phone)
We would...
Tomorrow night'd work better, though.
He chuckles.
Let me have at least a second alone with your mother before you up and steal her away from me.
MARY breathes out a small laugh. CAS eyes DEAN with some concern. DEAN catches this from the corner of his eye and pulls a faux look of perplexity. He replies with overenthusiastic confidence.
DEAN
Tomorrow it is.
He sniffs.
You guys, still in the area or…
MARY
(Through the phone)
Yeah, we're actually staying back in the old motel out in Lawrence.
SAM and DEAN'S brows just about reach their hairlines. SAM finds some composure.
SAM
Great, we'll head up there, then.
Meet at around six-ish?
MARY
(Through the phone)
I was actually thinking it'd be kind of nice to head back down toward you guys.
It's been far too long since I've had Papa Giovanni's.
DEAN’S mouth falls open, and his eyes roll back dramatically.
DEAN
Oh, hell, yes.
Their meat lovers.
He groans, and MARY laughs.
MARY
(Through the phone)
Good.
Done.
SAM smiles half-heartedly.
Well, we'd better let you guys go.
We can talk properly tomorrow night.
SAM
Deal.
He looks to DEAN, but his brother is busy in what appears, to SAM, as a staring contest with the air beside him. SAM shakes his head, he knows clearly where CAS is currently projecting himself.
Talk then.
JOHN
(Through the phone)
You kids stay safe out there, okay?
DEAN snaps his gaze away from CAS, and THE BROTHERS look at one another, completely baffled.
DEAN
Yeah.
He pulls his brows together.
We always are.
But, uh, you kids, keep an eye out for one another.
And don't do anything I wouldn't.
He laughs, and gains two accompanying laughs in reply from the other end of the phone call. Mary sighs.
MARY
Have a good night, boys.
The phone call ends from the other side, and the three men stand in silence, staring at SAM'S phone.
CAS
Well, that was weird…
CAS frowns. DEAN blinks at CAS and adjusts his footing.
DEAN
Not really?
CAS scoffs, yet smiles and shakes his head. SAM looks up from his phone in confusion.
CAS
… Dean.
SAM
Uh, Dean, wanna let me in on the conversation?
A bitter curve rises at the corner of DEAN’S mouth.
DEAN
Cas thinks that-that Dad's happy-go-lucky attitude has to be a-a trap-- or something.
He shrugs. SAM hits DEAN with a knowing brow raise and decides not to comment, but simply observe his brother's one-sided argument. CAS notches his head to the side.
CAS
Interesting, considering I actually merely stated that the phone call was weird.
Is that what you think, Dean?
That it's a trap?
DEAN recoils.
DEAN
Et Tu, Freud?
CAS grins at this, his eyes narrow as he searches DEAN’S face. DEAN turns to SAM to see an oddly similar look on his brother's face.
I’m-- look, the guy’s just in a good mood.
He got the damn love of his life back--
SAM interrupts his brother with a loud spurt of sarcastic laughter.
What?
SAM
Look, Dean, I get that this is all a lot to sort through, I really do, but I just--
He sighs.
--I don't want you to get your hopes up.
DEAN stares at SAM in utter bewilderment.
He and Mom were messy from the jump, right?
Put together by a cupid, written into a sick love story just so they'd eventually have us?
He shrugs.
Chuck-- or whoever-- wrote them together, maybe even wrote them apart, but… Dad's Dad.
He was always gonna be Dad.
He chose to be Dad.
That can’t change now just because Mom's back.
CAS
I agree…
DEAN spins to squint at CAS again.
DEAN
‘Course you do.
You’ve always hated the guy!
SAM smiles solemnly.
CAS
No, that's not entirely true.
I understand that it’s a complex relationship, and I wouldn't want to--
DEAN
--Whatever.
I know he's got a shitty track record, none of this is news to me, so just--
He starts trudging away from the others.
--add it to the list of things to put away, for now, that you guys can bug me about later--
He calls over his shoulder.
--If at all.
He continues down the hallway, walking backward now, waving his hands in gusto as he speaks.
I'm gonna be busy focusing on something that’s actually important.
You know, like, searchin’ the bunker for used condoms and dirty bandages, for Cas DNA?
SAM sighs again as he watches his brother turn down the hall.
SAM
If you can hear me, Cas, thanks for trying.
CAS exhales deeply and nods.
CAS
Yeah…
Then CAS disappears to join DEAN down a side corridor.
FADE OUT
INT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - HALLWAY - EVENING.
CAS
Dean, what exactly is your plan here?
I don't think that there's anything here with my DNA on it.
DEAN spares CAS a glance, and WE can see his pupils have diminished slightly in size. He stays silent as he marches, jaw tight, toward room number 15. He stops in front of the door and points to THE CAMERA.
DEAN
You.
Look under couch cushions and car seats.
In trash cans, garbage dumps…
You name it.
You find me that DNA, got it?
He avoids looking at CAS, takes a big breath in, closes his eyes, and flings open the door. He steps inside and flicks on the light, peering out one eye at first, then opening the other with a smile.
INT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - CASTIEL’S ROOM - EVENING.
The room is relatively plain as far as upgrades are concerned. There is a grow light in the corner and a few plants beneath it: A fern, a bonsai, and a peace lily. A bookshelf reaches to the ceiling, its contents almost completely bare, barring a collection of books on the art of Hilma af Klint, a copy of Leaves of Grass by Walt Whitman, and a library card. On the desk is a DVD box set of Studio Ghibli films, some noise-cancelling headphones, and a new laptop. The film Ponyo begins to play on the laptop screen as they enter, which gains some odd looks and causes DEAN to hit the space bar. The overhead light casts a deep purple glow that reflects off the various items that lie on the foot of the bed. DEANS mouth creeps back into a smile, and he brandishes a handful of what, to a lesser mind, may be mistaken as purely trash.
DEAN
Look at this.
He spreads it all out on the bed so he can see it better.
We got a razor, hairbrush, sock with some blood on it, empty packets of Funyuns… that…
CAS looks at his feet with a sheepish smile.
I'm guessin’ you licked?
CAS nods, and DEAN mirrors the action.
CAS
I did eat a lot of them back when I was human.
DEAN shakes his head and sorts the empty bags to one side. He continues taking inventory.
DEAN
Bloody angel blade, bloody angel blade, another razor, broken bottle of beer-- but the top’s the part that matters anyway-- bloody angel blade, a mask from some hunt where you've gone in as a doctor, an-- shit!
He pulls his hands back quickly and turns, wide-eyed to CAMERA.
Did I-- did-- did I just contaminate all of that?!
CAS
If all of this were found in a landfill, it's already contaminated…
I doubt it matters if you've chosen to handle it.
DEAN considers this.
DEAN
It’s gotta be enough though, right?
Otherwise, why bother bringing it all here?
CAS shrugs and surveys the rest of the room.
CAS
I suppose we’ll find out.
DEAN gazes at CAS suspiciously.
DEAN
You're very--
He waves a hand up and down where CAS has crossed to take a seat on the edge of the bed.
--Zen… about all of this.
CAS
I’m tired, and hungry, and emotionally drained, Dean.
As are you…
We have only had one coffee today and nothing to eat.
DEAN'S eyes float to the side as he thinks. He pulls his mouth down.
DEAN
Guess things got a little outta hand for a bit there, huh?
CAS nods.
CAS
You're running purely on cortisol.
It's not great for either of us.
DEAN claps his hands and rubs them together eagerly.
DEAN
Alright, food first, then we get all this to Rowena.
Sound like a plan?
CAS stands with what appears to be great effort. DEAN makes a face.
Sorry, I haven't been takin’ better care of… us, Cas.
CAS
It's okay.
I think I was…
He swallows, and so does DEAN.
When you allowed me to “stretch out”--
He does quotes with his fingers.
--It was… like nothing I have ever felt before.
DEAN eyes him.
Perhaps, being in the empty for as long as I was this time, coupled with my lack of grace, and that I had chosen to stay restrained in the recesses of your mind…
He sighs.
I don't know.
He slumps his shoulders.
I think the elation of spreading myself out and-- and the cortisol, and your soul is so bright it's--
DEAN
Well, sorry, they don’t make souls come with a dimmer switch.
He shrugs. CAS lets out a low, worn-out laugh. Then mutters tiredly as he rubs his eyes, causing DEAN to follow suit.
CAS
A dimmer switch on your soul would be like--
like setting ablaze the library of Alexander,
like, doodling upon the Mona Lisa;
… absolutely deplorable.
DEAN pulls his brows together and lowers his hand to glare at CAS, but the angel just blinks at him slowly, exhausted. DEAN eyes unfocus, and his gaze lowers, flicking back and forth at the precious pile of CAS'S vessels' bodily fluids. He’s waiting to discover and understand a seemingly hidden way that CAS’S words should be taken as an insult.
Sorry.
I didn't mean-- I know you don't want--
I'm just tired.
CAS sighs.
Let's go get something to eat, Dean.
DEAN blinks and his eyebrows glide back up, though his eyes remain distant as he continues to stare at the garbage.
DEAN
Right.
He clears his throat, rips his gaze away, and tosses a grin at CAS. DEAN then strides the few steps toward the hallway, switches out the light and closes the door gently behind him.
FADE OUT
INT. MEN OF LETTERS BUNKER - MAP ROOM - EVENING.
CASTIEL and DEAN enter the map room to find that it has been rearranged. The map table now sits further into a corner, and an incredibly long dining table takes up the majority of the space. Upon it are baking dishes housing the remnants of a meal picked at. Chickens torn to shreds, a tray of potatoes, gravy boats, sticks of butter, slices of roast beef, vegetables of all different colors cut in wedges and drowning in oil. Around the outskirts of the table is an array of empty plates full of pumpkin skins, chicken bones, sauces, pepper, and napkins. There are various different glasses full of various different stages of various different liquids being consumed. As much as DEAN is ready to quite literally dive into it-- and I mean, dive… like, I'm talking making a snow angel outta whatever leftovers he can get his paws on and spurting the gravy like a freakin’ water statue of a fat baby cherub… His attention is momentarily taken because--
DEAN
Uhhhh, what the hell?
--Around the table sit EILEEN, KEVIN, CHARLIE, JO, ASH, and ELLEN. But, CHARLIE is in an animated conversation, introducing her parents to DONNA and ALEX.
JO and KAIA speak with CLAIRE and her Mom, AMELIA, while PAMELA pours them all a glass of scotch each.
JODY'S son, OWEN, and husband, SEAN, sit listening to ASH and ELLEN explain to both her husband, BILL and KAREN SINGER, all about their new resurgence.
EILEEN talks to not only her own parents, but also to JESSICA MOORE, who sips shakily on a glass of water.
KEVIN and LINDA TRAN sporadically interject each other's sentences with further information while filling in MAGGIE, JULES and the other Apocalypse hunters, including BOBBY and CHARLIE 2.0, who holds a hand beside her eye, blocking off the other CHARLIE in her peripheral.
Both KETCH and MICK stand together restlessly, appearing as if they're each hoping to be the first to escape their conversation with HENRY WINCHESTER, FRANK DEVERAUX and VICTOR HENDRIKSEN.
KELLY KLINE makes small talk with PATIENCE and MISSOURI, and GWEN, CHRISTIAN and SAMUEL CAMPBELL sit together in silence, watching the room.
All eyes turn on DEAN as he and CAS enter.
People who are seated start to stand, and FRANK begins to slow clap. CLAIRE joins with a smirk, followed by PAMELA. CHARLIE joins in, in complete sincerity, then KEVIN rolls his eyes and starts to clap as well. Soon, the whole crowd is giving DEAN a round of applause. Many of the crowd look at one another, as if uncertain, if they too should join, but all end up doing so. As un-uniformed as it is, and as confused as some of the people clapping may be, not a single person in the room remains seated or fails to join the clapping. CLAIRE lets out a whoop.
DONNA
Ow!
PAMELA
Yeah, Baby!
DEAN sweeps his arm into the air in a grand performance, then takes a spectacular bow. He pulls his hands away from each other, drawing a line in the air and silencing his audience. CAS watches tenderly.
DEAN
Thank you, thank you.
You've been a great crowd.
He laughs, and there's resounding laughter in return (as well as a few groans, but who’s counting?) from the group surrounding the room. He cups his hand to the side of his mouth, as if to whisper, but instead continues to speak loud enough, so everyone can hear (and see) him.
Uh, anyone wanna fill me in on what I'm supposed to have done to get all that?
Another smattering of laughter from a few in the group.
ELLEN
Could maybe have somethin’ to do with bringin’ us all back?
DEAN bares his teeth.
DEAN
Yeah…
Awkwardly enough, that wasn't me-- I mean, you can still clap, but, uh, yeah, that was, uh...
He flicks his chin up at THE CAMERA.
MISSOURI
Now, isn't that just like you, Dean Winchester?
Avoiding taking the credit.
You don't truly believe each of us has been selected at random, to be given a second chance at life, now, do you?
DEAN opens his mouth to respond.
HENRY
--And to be brought back to the bunker, where both you and your brother reside?
KETCH
I suspect, you Winchesters are the one and only thing that we all have in common.
CLAIRE
Duh, random English guy.
Dean's just embarrassed because he's never had this many friends alive at one time before--
She winks at DEAN.
-- Right?
Don't you usually wait until someone dies to make a new friend?
DEAN scowls. A few in the crowd laugh again, and he mimics their laughter with narrowed eyes and a high voice.
DEAN
Missed you too, Claire.
He moves toward the table to stand opposite her, and she flashes a grin at him, picks up her whiskey, and turns away to lean against the table. CAS strolls over to join DEAN, and some of the group dissolve into a low hum of chatter. DEAN puffs a large gust of air from his lungs in relief, glad to have fewer eyes on him. He reaches over the table to beside where CLAIRE leans and snatches up a clean plate. DEAN does whisper this time.
Alright, Cas, what's on the menu?
CAS
For an Appetizer…
DEAN falters and glances curiously at the angel.
… I'd like you to let Claire know that I'm alive…
Please?
DEAN inhales deeply and rolls his eyes, then scopes out the crowd for any potential threats. He sighs as he catches SAMUEL and the other CAMPBELL’S watching him and muttering quietly. He raises a hand in a wave, and only GWEN returns the favor. He winces, then mutters under his breath as stealthily as he can.
DEAN
Just one sec, Cas.
His grip on his empty plate tightens as he walks over to them. CAS sighs, yet follows DEAN regardless.
Hey…
The CAMPBELLS regard him with caution.
SAMUEL
Dean.
DEAN
Just checkin’ in to let you know… if you haven't heard already, that Mom's back an--
SAMUEL stands, his chair scraping loudly against the floor.
SAMUEL
Mary?
Where?
DEAN
Laurence, with John.
But, uh, they're headed back this way for dinner tomorrow, so maybe you can get in on that if--
SAMUEL throws a thumb over his shoulder at the other two, and they stand as well.
SAMUEL
--Yeah, I'm not gonna sit around and wait to see Mary again when she's only an hour away.
DEAN
Right, it's just--
SAMUEL
--Look, Dean, I know you mean well and everything, but this is my daughter we're talking about.
You clearly got no idea what it's like to lose your own kid, or you'd be handing over your car keys right about now.
DEAN bites his tongue, shakes his head and points to the hallway he just came from.
DEAN
Garage is down the hall, to the right, end doorway and up the stairs.
Should be a bunch of keys hanging by the door.
Sorry, you can't take my car, but you can take him--
He points at HENRY.
-- Dads, dad.
The CAMPBELLS turn to eye HENRY.
Good ol’ Pappy Winchester.
With his spare hand, he hits SAMUEL'S shoulder twice.
He's a hoot, you're all gonna get along like a house on fire.
DEAN nods.
Well… good luck.
He turns to wander back to where CLAIRE stands, but halts as he almost crashes into CASTIEL, their faces only an inch apart. CAS, amused by DEAN's completely unnecessary reaction, continues to smile, watching as DEAN licks at his bottom lip, inhales and side steps around CAS. DEAN reaches the table and sighs. He places the plate down and slumps his head, then leans over the table again, flicks the back of his hand against CLAIRE’S shoulder blade, to gain her attention.
CLAIRE
Ow?
She spins around and hugs herself, rubbing her back where DEAN hit it.
What the hell?
The group with CLAIRE all eye him, and he lifts his empty plate again absentmindedly, as if it were a defensive shield. He faces each of the ladies across the table from him and doesn't even notice when THE CAMPBELLS and HENRY WINCHESTER leave the room.
DEAN
Jo.
He nods, smiling uncomfortably.
JO
Dean.
She nods back, then raises her brows expectantly. Daring him to say something. He feels like he should know exactly what to say, but “Sorry” doesn’t seem like it’d cut it, and it does seem to be what she’s waiting to hear.
DEAN
Yeah…
Okay.
DEAN huffs an awkward laugh and moves on.
Hey, Kaia.
He swallows as she raises a brow at him, a very similar, if not identical, face to Jo’s. So, seems it's not a kiss-related thing?
KAIA
Yeah…
Hi…
He puffs another laugh, but when she doesn't smile, his eyes bulge and move along.
DEAN
Claire's Mom.
That's-- uh--
He nods again, looks at CAS, then directs his gaze to CLAIRE.
It's your Mom.
DEAN states manically, as if CLAIRE isn't already aware of this.
CLAIRE
Uh-huh!
CLAIRE grins in fake over-enthusiasm. Kaia smirks.
PAMELA
Hey, kiddo, give the poor guy a break.
He just wants to tell you something--
She winks at him.
--Don't you, Dean.
DEAN swallows again, glances at CAS, then pulls his bottom lip down, faking ignorance.
DEAN
No, uh, I don't--
I don't have any--
PAMELA
Oh, come on.
I'm a psychic, remember?
And you really expect me to forget the last face I saw before my eyes burned to muck in their sockets?
DEAN looks to CAS again (who shrugs, unhelpfully), then back to the group of women staring at him. Every single face is bitchier than the last. He's cornered. He's done for.
DEAN
Alright.
Uh, no biggie.
His eyes bug as he flourishes his plate like an old-timey hat in a fifties cartoon of a dancing frog… or something…
Just, uh--
He glances at CAS, again, who blinks slowly at him.
Yeah, I--
He clears his throat.
Wow, it's kind of hot in here with all of these people, don't you think?
He uses the plate as a fan.
Are you guys hot?
I'm hot.
I wonder if the-the added body heat or-or the hot food makes the air conditioning-- like maybe it needs to be higher?
Ooh, is that the wishbone?
He reaches over to one of the half-torn-apart chicken carcasses.
I'm just gonna…
He grins and shrugs before picking up the entire remnants of the bird and plonking it on his plate.
CLAIRE
Are you having an aneurysm or something?
AMELIA eyes CLAIRE with concern, but DEAN just continues to load more and more food onto his plate. Beef, yes, potatoes, yes, pumpkin, yes, asparagus, pass…
Are-- Oh my God, Dean, you're not dying again, already?
She asks sarcastically and plonks into her chair with a hand to her chest, in a fake gasp. CAS seems to find this endearing, AMELIA… does not.
AMELIA
Claire.
CLAIRE
What, Mom, we're just messing around.
Right, Dean?
DEAN
Uh, yeah.
He glances up quickly and displays a fabulous grin, then dumps his gravy all over his plate. CLAIRE turns her chair as DONNA and ALEX wander over, and the women go back to ignoring DEAN. PAMELA smiles slyly but turns to the conversation with a shake of her head.
CAS
Does this mean that I shouldn’t expect her to know until after dessert…
Or is it more of a conversation for breakfast?
DEAN broods at his plate, drags a chair across to his small area of the table and grips the top of it so madly that his knuckles turn white. CAS taps the side of his mouth, acting as if he were deep in thought.
Perhaps it's better suited for lunchtime in three weeks…
I know--
He tuts and lowers his hand, as if having a brilliant epiphany.
--You should just keep silent about it altogether.
Put it off until my own body is available.
CAS sighs, and DEAN does so too.
Then they needn't know that you ever had to withstand such an unspeakably shameful task.
DEAN pushes the chair in with both hands, and it bumps the table sharply, causing the cutlery to clunk and rattle.
DEAN
Claire…
CLAIRE rolls her eyes and lolls her head to blink up at him.
…Cas's back.
She rights herself, sitting up straight, and swivels around to face him properly.
He-- uh, he’s--
CLAIRE
Is he okay?
DEAN
He’s fine-- annoying as ever-- but fine.
CLAIRE
Well… where is he?
He, in the bunker, somewhere?
DEAN cringes, then rolls his shoulders and shakes his arms side to side, jogging on the spot, amping himself up.
Uh… Dean?
DEAN
Yeah, he's here.
You can't see him.
He chuckles and stops jogging.
Ya lookin at him.
He grins and shimmies his hands. CLAIRE shakes her head in confusion.
He's--
I--
DEAN looks to CAS for help, but the angel simply stares at him with overwhelming admiration. It catches DEAN off guard, and he has to pull his gaze away because he remembers he's unfortunately attempting to have a difficult conversation.
Uh-- what?
He's--
He squirms under everyone's eyes and rubs a hand at the back of his neck, laughing. CLAIRE squints at him.
Um--
PAMELA
Need a hand there, cutie?
She smiles, and DEAN just leaps across the table and hugs her.
DEAN
Please. God, yes.
PAMELA
Dean is Castiel’s vessel until they can finish getting his old one back.
AMELIA pipes up at this.
AMELIA
Jimmy?
You're bringing Jimmy back, too?
CLAIRE pales, and DEAN’S voice comes out in a squeak.
DEAN
Uhhhhhh…..
He looks to CAS for help, again. This time, CAS is too busy studying AMELIA, wearing a profound look of regret.
Thing is, we can only bring back a body that's incapable of holding human life.
Uh, Jimmy's body-- his real one is in-- well, it’s a long story but I-- I don't know…
I mean-- Cheat codes--
He looks around for THE CAMERA but gives up in the sea of people.
--they're the one bringing back the people we burnt to a crisp--
He watches AMELIA’S eyes fill with fear.
--I mean cremated-- the people we… cremated.
I don't-- you'd have to ask them to bring him back--
I, uh… Yeah.
CLAIRE
Right…
She looks at THE CAMERA, and KAIA takes her hand.
AMELIA snaps her eyes to look toward the hallway, and one by one the others follow suit. Again, they each rise and start to clap. This time it's due to SAM sauntering through the entrance to the hallway with JODY and BOBBY following closely behind.
SAM now stands frozen at the threshold, with his mouth in a perfect cartoonish “o” shape as he takes in the scene.
He, BOBBY and JODY first notice DEAN, who has climbed up on his chair and is whistling loudly.
SAM’S eyes then trail over the rest of the crowd as he shakes his head in disbelief.
The applause seems to be dying down as JODY and BOBBY find their respective loved ones and rush over to them.
SAM picks at his thumb as his eyes unfocus. He robotically takes a few steps toward DEAN, but then finds EILEEN, one of the few people who are still watching him. He manages to smile at her bashfully.
And then SAM’S eyes come to a rest on someone else, he freezes, and gasps so sharply that everyone in the room looks toward the sound. He lowers his hand, and blood drips in a splatter on the floor by his shoes; the sound of it seems to echo through the otherwise silent room. When SAM finally speaks, his voice sounds like it's being ripped from the very center of his chest in a deep, guttural whimper.
SAM
Jess?
BLACKOUT
TO BE CONTINUED.
Chapter 13: "Mothman" part 1
Summary:
Angel Heart.
Chapter Text
SUPERNATURAL
“MOTHMAN"
TEASER
THEN
Clip from 12.06, Celebrating The Life of Asa Fox
SAM
Did you know people tell stories about us?
DEAN
Yeah.
Apparently, we're a little bit legendary.
(Houses of the Holy by Led Zeppelin plays)
♪♪♪
From 1.01 pilot JOHN gives baby SAM to DEAN.
JOHN
Take your brother outside as fast as you can!
Now, Dean, go!
DEAN runs downstairs with SAM watching the fire spread throughout his family home.
♪ There's an angel on my shoulder, In my hand a sword of gold. ♪
Voiceover From 1.01 pilot.
DEAN
Dad's on a hunting trip. And he hasn't been home in a few days.
DEAN from 2.21 All Hell Breaks Loose: Part One, running towards SAM as SAM is stabbed in the back DEAN pulls his hand off SAM’S back and the shot changes---
♪ You know I love you a lot, I just don't know should I not? ♪
Voiceover from 1.02 Wendigo.
DEAN
I think he wants us to pick up where he left off. You know, saving people---
---SAM’S bloody hand lifting away from DEAN'S back from 15.20 Carry On.
♪ Let me wander in your garden, And the seeds of love I'll sow ♪
Voiceover from 1.02 Wendigo continued.
DEAN
---hunting things; The family business.
♪♪♪
Then OVERHEAD LIGHTS EXPLODE! Raining SPARKS over DEAN, BOBBY, the whole room. They shield themselves. Then they see-- AT THE FAR END OF THE ROOM. The ENTRANCE. SWINGS OPEN by itself. Slow. Revealing-- a MAN. CASTIEL. He heads in, walking through a curtain of FALLING SPARKS. It's a hell of an entrance.
♪ So the world is spinning faster, Are you dizzy when you stall? Let the music be your master, Will you heed the master's call ♪
Voiceover from 4.22 Lucifer Rising.
CHUCK
You guys aren't supposed to be there. You're not in this story.
CASTIEL
Yeah, well… We're making it up as we go.
♪♪♪
From 5.16 Dark Side of the Moon, The TV behind DEAN flares to life, showing a grainy black and white image of CASTIEL.
From 5.22 Swan Song, CHUCK sits behind a computer keyboard. A full glass and near-empty bottle of cheap whiskey beside him.
♪ Said there ain't no use in crying, Cause it will only, only drive you mad, Does it hurt to hear them lying? Was this the only world you had? Oh ♪
Clip from 14.20 Moriah
CHUCK
This isn't how the story is supposed to end.
CAS
The story?
DEAN
Wait. What are you saying?
SAM
He's saying he's been playing us.
This whole time.
Our entire lives.
Mom, Dad -- everything.
This is all you because you wrote it all, right?
Because -- Because what? Because we're your favorite show? Because we're part of your story?
And every other bad thing we've been killing, been dying over -- (scoffs) where were you?
Just sitting back and watching us suffer so we can do this over and over and over again -- fighting, losing people we love? When does it end?
DEAN
No, we're done talking.
'Cause this -- this isn't just a story. It's our lives!
♪♪♪
From THE WINCHESTERS 01.13 Hey, That's No Way to Say Goodbye, JACK--- wearing a white linen suit… then CHUCK--- from 15.19 Inherit the Earth also wearing a white linen suit
Clip from 16.01 Fuck
DEAN stands frozen against SAM’S wall, staring at the CAMERA, as he waits… JACK walks past SAM and places a hand on the door handle. JACK opens the door and--- SAM and DEAN find themselves back in the bunker. They BOTH slowly draw their gaze toward THE CAMERA.
♪ So let me take you, take you to the movie, Can I take you, baby, to the show? Why don't you let me be yours ever truly? Can I make your garden grow? You know, that's right ♪
Voiceover from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together
ROWENA
What's this?!
Dean Winchester, finally back in the land of the living?
And not only that, but carrying along the angel Castiel, who, also, up until now, was known to be deceased?
Has the student finally become the master, and you're here to show me how to crack my son out of the empty?
Clip from 16.02, Putting The Band Back Together.
SAM
Uh, no, um, actually this wasn't me it was, um…
He points at THE CAMERA.
DEAN
Yeah, they're not really the Chatty type…
More into random resurrections and forced cryptic visions.
♪♪♪
Clip from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together.
ROWENA
I suppose I can help with Castiel’s vessel[...]
I’ll need some of his DNA, though.
Clip from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together.
MICHAEL stands, pulling ADAM up with him. His eyes boil with rage for a moment, then silently dissipates.
MICHAEL
Fine…
We’re even.
♪♪♪
Clip from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together.
JOHN
(Through the phone)
Let me have at least a second alone with your mother before you up and steal her away from me.
Clip from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together.
MARY
I was actually thinking it'd be kind of nice to head back down toward you guys.
♪♪♪
Clip from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together.
JODY
So we gotta figure out a way for them to write us some kinda help?
Clip from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together.
DEAN
No more sacrificing ourselves because there’s no other option.
No more two-dollar mystery deals.
Voiceover from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together.
BOBBY
Fine.
If you’re right--
Give me my wife back, then.
[...]
Any other damn sonofabitch, Chuck decided to kill off for character development.
Clip from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together
Around the table sits CHARLIE in an animated conversation, introducing her parents to DONNA and ALEX.
JO and KAIA speak with CLAIRE and her mom, AMELIA, while PAMELA pours them all a glass of scotch each.
JODY'S son, OWEN, and husband, SEAN, sit listening to ASH and ELLEN explain to both, her husband BILL and KAREN SINGER, all about their new resurgence.
EILEEN talks to not only her own parents, but also to JESSICA MOORE, who sips shakily on a glass of water.
KEVIN and LINDA TRAN sporadically interject each other's sentences with further information while filling in MAGGIE, JULES and the other Apocalypse hunters, including BOBBY and CHARLIE 2.0, who holds a hand beside her eye, blocking off the other CHARLIE in her peripheral.
Both KETCH and MICK stand together restlessly, appearing as if they're each hoping to be the first to escape their conversation with, HENRY WINCHESTER, FRANK DEVERAUX and VICTOR HENDRIKSEN.
KELLY KLINE makes small talk with PATIENCE and MISSOURI and GWEN, CHRISTIAN and SAMUEL CAMPBELL sit together in silence, watching the room.
Clip from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together.
SAM’S eyes come to a rest on someone, he freezes, and gasps so sharply that everyone in the room looks toward the sound. He lowers his hand and blood drips in a splatter on the floor by his shoes, the sound of it seems to echo through the otherwise silent room. When SAM finally speaks, his voice sounds like it's being ripped from the very center of his chest in a deep, guttural whimper.
SAM
… Jess?
END OF TEASER
NOW
PART ONE
INT. BUNKER - DEAN CAVE - NIGHT.
WE fade in on a TV screen. A lady places a frightened scaled animal upon a vets table and pats it.
“This pangolin's still got the little white tips at the end of each scale, which shows his use. And this is a particularly pretty little pangolin. Poaching is a brutally cruel business. I have seen video footage of them being boiled alive. It's extremely distressing to see how these animals are killed.”
The animal curls in upon itself in fear, then slowly relaxes the more accustomed it becomes to being gently caressed.
Somebody clears their throat from the doorway at the entrance to the room and DEAN, swaddled in his new weighted blanket, with hair still damp from his shower, wipes his cheeks, sniffs, and turns to look over at the intruder. ADAM walks into the room and stands beside the gray couch from SAM’S house.
MICHAEL
Castiel.
DEAN’S face seems to fade away, as WE can now see that CASTIEL'S magnificent, yet shrunken true form’s features have occupied DEAN’S same space the entire time. A humanoid figure of faint glowing light, his visage mesmerizing and somehow unidentifiable within the space of DEAN’S facial features. His six tattered wings exist both within and without the fabric of this reality, relaxed and splayed throughout DEAN's clothing, the blanket engulfing him, the couch beneath him, and even the concrete floor. All three sets of wings encompass DEAN like an additional, albeit invisible, quilt of pure light and plumage.
“Last year, when Covid-19 first emerged, pangolins were pointed to as a potential source for the virus. And everybody hoped that this would cut down the trade straight away, but unfortunately that’s not happened. The trade is highly profitable and not likely to stop.”
CASTIEL
Hello, brother.
You’re welcome to join me if you'd like.
Above pleasantries, MICHAEL neglects to thank CASTIEL for the offer. Instead, he, a similar, yet far brighter, looking being to CASTIEL, walks ADAM’S body stiffly to the other side of the couch, his one pair of enormous wings, dragging through all matter behind him. He hesitantly sits ADAM down, and he, too, envelops his vessel within his mighty set of wings.
MICHAEL
Adam seemed to believe you wouldn't be given the courtesy to exist wholly within this vessel--
His brows furrow as he muses.
--My… vessel.
CAS smiles, though he tries not to; there is a tense air to MICHAEL’S words, and all of Chuck’s ridiculous apocalyptic schemes feel so redundant now.
“There are four Asian pangolin species and four African. And all eight species are threatened with extinction”.
CAS
Ah, yes.
Your sword.
He chuckles, and truly, he doesn't mean to.
Just another in a long list of Chuck's flawed complots, wouldn't you agree?
MICHAEL raises his brows and huffs.
MICHAEL
I may never be able to tell if you're astonishingly arrogant… or just tremendously stupid.
He scowls. CAS sighs, and it takes a large portion of his willpower to keep from rolling his eyes as his brother continues.
Do you not realize the insult you exact upon me, speaking to me from that mouth?
You already left a mark of your hand upon him when retrieving him from hell… was that not malediction enough?
CAS studies MICHAEL for a moment before speaking. If MICHAEL is, in actuality, offended by any of these petulant notions, he doesn't appear to be so with very much fervor. CAS decides to breach new realms of brotherhood with his brother; to test the waters, so to speak. He turns down the TV so it becomes barely audible.
CAS
You're aware none of that-- none of any of this--
He runs DEAN'S hands up and down in the air above his torso.
--has a single thing to do with you, personally.
MICHAEL opens his mouth to object.
Dean Winchester is a being of his own.
I'm here-- occupying his space, like a parasite-- solely due to his unending kindness, and frankly his potentially gratuitous loyalty…
I was under the impression that you finally understood our roles in this world, Michael?
THE ARCHANGEL glares at the television.
Would you even truly want to take up your “sword”,
MICHAEL’S jaw tenses.
If it meant giving up Adam?
MICHAEL
Our roles…?
He points ADAM’S finger with gusto at the documentary on the television, now discussing the disastrous effects that overfishing has already inflicted upon the earth.
These creatures were gifted with this world and do nothing but consume it.
CAS grins and shakes DEAN'S head in fatigue. He can empathize with MICHAEL’S naive point of view.
They engorge themselves on it, spreading their filth upon every ounce of--
CAS
--Then leave.
MICHAEL examines CASTIEL for any sign he may be joking whilst wearing a look of pure bewilderment, and CASTIEL simply laughs.
You don't have to stay here if you don't like it.
You could always leave, return to heaven.
MICHAEL looks down at his hands, at ADAM'S hands. He turns them over, inspecting them. When he replies, his voice has lost its splendor.
MICHAEL
You speak as if you believe it's possible, I could ever make the choice to stay.
CASTIEL frowns at his brother.
CAS
You can.
He reaches out with DEAN’S hand and places it on ADAM'S arm without thinking much about it. A very human habit; comfort through touch.
Of course, you can.
If that’s what you want to do.
MICHAEL pats DEAN'S hand with ADAM’S once, curiously, robotically, then lowers it and CAS withdraws his grasp. MICHAEL continues, transfixed upon ADAM’S hands.
MICHAEL
How do you manage it, Castiel?
How are you not overwhelmed by every moment of this existence?
CAS’S mouth twitches into a smile.
CAS
I suppose I’ve simply had more practice.
He contemplates.
I think you’ll get used to it, as I have, should you choose to stick around.
MICHAEL shrinks further inside his vessel.
MICHAEL
Unfortunately, I am uncertain if I would ever even want to get used to it.
He sighs, and resolves to remain with his eyes set firmly upon ADAM'S hands, now not due to interest, rather as a means to escape direct eye contact, and therefore avoiding any emotional intimacy.
Castiel, may I share a further source of my personal indignity with you?
Would that be appropriate?
CAS considers this. He reaches DEAN’S hand through his frail and defective wings and adjusts the blanket around DEAN as it slips off his shoulder and down his arms.
CAS
If you’re asking whether it's appropriate for the chief archangel to share a personal grievance with a lowly disobedient seraph, I would say probably not.
He searches MICHAEL and notices that all the physical signs of disappointment that become immediately apparent upon ADAM’S face, just as he assumed they would. CAS allows himself to smile as he continues.
However… it would be a suitable step in building tolerance toward your existence upon earth, if that were something you were interested in achieving.
MICHAEL takes a moment to absorb these words, and once his inner turmoil begins to overwhelm him to the extent that it takes precedence over all the irrational expectations imposed on him by others, he turns to angle ADAM'S body further toward CASTIEL, and away from the TV.
MICHAEL
I… often find myself… longing to return… to Lucifer’s cage…
He looks deep into CASTIEL'S eyes, unblinking, waiting for some kind of guidance or sage advice. CAS frowns, then, for lack of words, places DEAN'S hand back upon ADAM'S arm, in an attempt to buy him some time to think of a reply.
CAS
Michael, we need to release Jack from our father's clasp.
The look on ADAM'S face indicates MICHAEL does not hold a very high value to this response. CAS can’t help but eject a small laugh at his brother's face. He elaborates.
It's because of Chuck that you feel so disoriented.
Chuck placed upon you an incredible burden of purpose and then eradicated every ounce of it.
We were led to believe that the reason for our existence-- our role here-- was to lead humans toward our “divine ideology”,
to usher in peace upon this earth.
But if you look hard enough-- and I mean this with all sincerity-- despite humanity's obvious prevailing flaws-- peace is already in immense supply to those who are willing to fight for it.
He notes that MICHAEL seems to be working hard to understand the sentiment behind his words.
I believe that this fight, well, it’s one worth participating in.
So, Chuck's plan-- God's divine will?
It means nothing.
It was never anything more than an illusion, and yet he lay the groundwork for something very real.
In doing so-- completely without intention-- Chuck made all of us angels as these powerful creatures-- beings formidable enough to truly help humanity eradicate some of their more… inadvisable… flaws-- so that their fight for that, already very present peace-- may be just a little less painful for them.
MICHAEL shakes ADAM'S head in discontentment. CAS sighs at his brother's inability to read between the lines, before he clarifies the crux of his argument.
Jack is not only our greatest hope to stop Chuck once and for all, but he is also your family, and therefore, a real chance at anchoring yourself again, a chance at finding true purpose.
MICHAEL
You believe I have some kind of clandestine knowledge to free the Nephilim and end our father, but it's not the case, Castiel.
I am as useless as you are in all of this.
CAS does roll his eyes this time.
CAS
Neither of us are useless.
I know that’s hard to come to terms with at the moment, but you must understand that a large portion of your current view of things stems from the fact that you were only very recently released from the influence of the Empty.
That place… Its grip upon our minds is… outrageous.
Besides, I'm not expecting you to have all the answers, I just need to know that you have enthusiasm enough to remain on our side.
MICHAEL scoffs.
MICHAEL
You're asking me to bow to you?
CAS is abruptly reminded of a time when he was so full of hubris, he'd actually managed to convince himself he had found a way to become a God. Oh, if only that self-aggrandized, narcissistic version of himself still lived within him, he would be intoxicated by the concept of the archangel MICHAEL proposing this question. He lets out a noise he's unsure he's ever made before, something of an elated sigh or mirthful exhale. He shakes DEAN'S head.
CAS
I’m asking if you have learned you must only bow to yourself, to look within and to find yourself set apart from Chuck's desires for you.
He readjusts the blanket upon DEAN'S body again.
I'm asking if our motivations align enough that you will not just become a hindrance toward allowing me to achieve my own goals.
The ARCHANGEL sighs.
MICHAEL
As long as Adam seeks some sort of emotional relationship with the Winchesters, I will be your ally.
CAS almost lifts DEAN'S hands to his cheeks, noticing the tightness there from smiling so much at the absurdity of this entire conversation. He feels an additional urge to trace the lines beside DEAN'S eyes, but instead keeps his hands clasped firmly together upon his lap.
CAS
As much as that does reassure me, you are still missing the point…
I believe that, perhaps, It may help you long term, if you try and let Adam's aspirations become a guide for you to find what it is you seek for yourself.
Allow yourself to sense his desires so you can accustom yourself with the emotion.
If you’re anything like me, you will have initially sensed every conceivable feeling Adam, or those around him, had, and once you started to empathize with them, intentionally begun blocking their emotions, shutting yourself off from them so you no longer intrude upon them.
However, I encourage you to allow them back in, feel as much as possible so that you can learn each emotion properly, to the extent that you are then able to identify each emotion you feel yourself, then once you are confident of that, you can attempt to block yourself from them, once again.
MICHAEL’S tone is full of anger and strength; a shadow of his old commanding voice rings out.
MICHAEL
That is what I was trying to articulate, Castiel.
I know and understand my own emotions.
I am laden with them and can name each and every one and yet…
My only present desire is to return to the cage--
His face contorts in self-disgust.
--to seek a reality in which Adam and I are left alone by all others with no responsibility or-- or distraction--
CAS
--You love him...
CASTIEL knows he overstepped, pushed a little too far, and yet his brother simply stares into his eyes again, with that same look of desperation, as if CAS were the world's expert on all things human.
Do you… feel that may be a correct statement?
MICHAEL appears more of a field mouse than the infinite source of heavenly might that he truly is.
MICHAEL
I--
I don't--
We are not capable of-- of such a-- a--
CAS
--Trust me when I say, we are.
He chuckles.
I have spent my entire time on earth learning it.
He finds himself smoothing DEAN’S blanket to sit less bunched upon him. DEAN'S voice, exposing his apparent view of the blatant hilarity of his words.
Learning it, and renouncing it, and relearning it, finally comprehending it, and then renouncing it again…
He looks to his brother with a smirk.
It took me a long time to accept.
MICHAEL
I have long suspected this--
CAS is aghast at how quickly MICHAEL becomes receptive to this information.
--of you...
CAS laughs.
CAS
Oh...
Yes, well, most suspected, long before I ever understood.
It seems I did a horrible job at hiding it.
Although, in fairness, I wasn't aware that there was anything I needed to hide, at that stage.
He states dryly, then corrects himself.
Ironically enough, the more I have learned, the more I realize, there isn't anything I need to hide at all…
MICHAEL
And he-- Dean-- knows this?
It's my understanding that feelings of that nature can be received negatively.
CAS chuckles again.
CAS
I suppose it went as well as it could have.
Considering he is allowing me to exist with his skin, I think it went well enough.
MICHAEL lets this information wash over him.
MICHAEL
But--
You intend to recruit the Hell Witch to recreate your past vessel?
CAS
Her name is Rowena, and she is the current Leader of hell, but yes.
MICHAEL
My point, Castiel, is that you would willingly leave Dean Winchester despite your innate impulse to achieve a closeness with him?
CAS shakes his head once again, the absolute ludicrousness of this conversation… He is reminded, now, of how he used to delight in sharing his unrelenting patience, explaining certain concepts, such as these, to JACK-- how he will soon experience those moments again, he has to…
CAS
Well, you are here, out in the world, despite your inclinations to kidnap Adam and return to the Cage…
MICHAEL blinks down at ADAM'S legs.
MICHAEL
… I… understand.
Is that why, even now, despite your abysmally low level of grace, you work to keep Dean asleep?
Because you put his needs before your own?
A smirk creeps upon DEAN'S mouth.
CAS
Dean isn't an esteemed sleeper at the best of times.
He's been… uncomfortable about Sam driving Jessica back to her parents without him.
That, coupled with the resurgence of many of his close relationships-- all of which have ended in tragedy-- I believe he may be experiencing a crisis of self to some degree.
MICHAEL scrunches ADAM'S features into a look of uncertainty.
He’s exceptionally good at harboring guilt and blames himself for many of their deaths, to the extent that he has made it a cornerstone of his being; a truth: he personally is a magnet of ill fate.
Of course, this is actually true to some extent, given that it was all a part of “the plan” or “story”-- if you will.
He squints at the TV, now showing content about the climate crisis, and wonders if he perhaps shouldn't have shared this much information regarding his personal analysis of DEAN’S current mental state. Perhaps if he were speaking to SAM or JACK it would have been understandable, however, he appears to have just been swept up into the vulnerability of the conversation, and somehow forgotten he has no real relationship with his brother, and what's worse, that DEAN has even less. He much prefers when his talks with MICHAEL were simply a relaying of information regarding some mission, or frankly, even the weird and uncomfortable small talk that CASTIEL has noticed that most angels seem to attempt to partake in once they become more familiar with humanity's idiosyncrasies. He attempts to backtrack.
Besides, the more rest he gets, the more I can heal.
It's a win-win situation.
MICHAEL
I suppose it must also be favorable for you to experience some time in which you can exist within a vessel somewhat more alone…
Given that you occupied one by yourself for so long.
CAS
I suppose so… It's not entirely the same…
I can still sense him now, of course.
He’s incredibly loud and incredibly bright.
He laughs.
MICHAEL
As is Adam.
Fortunately, he is prone to sleeping extremely deeply.
MICHAEL smiles fondly, and his voice quietens as if revealing a secret.
I always found that to be… quite a compliment…
CASTIEL isn't sure why, but he is filled with immense jealousy over these words. DEAN doesn't sleep easily. He has only ever managed to sleep for far less than the minimum required hours needed. He isn't sure why, but now that he inhabits the same body as him, he wishes that DEAN were suddenly able to get a full eight hours, unassisted. MICHAEL misreads CAS’S silence as confusion, or perhaps he reads it correctly as confusion; CAS is uncertain, either way, the ARCHANGEL decides to elaborate further.
That he is comfortable in his most vulnerable state… I feel a strong sense of honor and pride...
A flush rises upon ADAM'S cheeks, and CAS is hit with an overwhelming and indisputably ridiculous urge to punch it right back off of his face. Now, he gets it. It's frustration directly caused by the reality that he was explaining basic emotions to MICHAEL five seconds ago and is now feeling “one-upped” by his brother's nonexistent relationship. The “180” is frankly embarrassing.
I know how inane that is, given that it is a basic human requirement… it still provides me with a profound sense of joy, though.
CAS
I can imagine.
He manages to grit out, and is sure he pairs his words with an attempt at a warm smile to lessen his chances of causing any unnecessary conflict.
Michael, I think you should know, Sam and Dean both intend to reunite with their parents over dinner tomorrow night.
The words escape him before he has a chance to even think about it, and ADAM'S brows become tightly drawn together.
I am uncertain at this point, but there is also a chance that both Mary's and John’s fathers will also be present.
A sick part of CASTIEL feels vindicated by the harm this information seems to cause MICHAEL on ADAM’S behalf. The triumph is short-lived, however, and a resounding sense of guilt immediately takes its place… Such is life.
I will talk to Dean about whether Adam may be “allowed”--
He air quotes.
--to join them, however, I can't promise anything given the complex social intricacies at play.
MICHAEL
--because John Winchester is a fornicator.
CAS chuckles.
CAS
Because John Winchester was brazen enough to forgo contraception when he… partook in fornication, an act you may consider a blessing.
MICHAEL sighs.
MICHAEL
This is all too exhausting.
I've commanded forces in eternal wars, and single-handedly wrought destruction upon entire legions of hell, yet the emotional complexities of human behavior are what I am undone by?
How is it possible that I have observed humanity since its very creation and am only now just beginning to understand it?
CAS
Not to repeat myself…
But the reason is obviously Chuck.
MICHAEL sighs, again.
MICHAEL
And this new being?
I overheard Dean saying that you have communicated with it?
They both turn to look directly at THE CAMERA.
CAS
I have.
They both continue to stare down the lens, lost in thought, they remain like this for an extended period of time. The documentary finishes, and credits begin to roll when CASTIEL speaks up again.
Between the two of you, there must be something you can do to free Jack.
MICHAEL
I’m not aware of anything at present, but I will endeavor to find a solution for you-- for both of us.
If you truly believe I have a place here-- If you believe we do.
He places ADAM’S hand upon his chest and flinches suddenly. ADAM wakes with a startle and looks around the room.
ADAM
Dude, you scared the shit outta me.
MICHAEL smiles tenderly, and his true form glows within him.
MICHAEL
My apologies, let me return you to your bed.
He turns to CAS.
Goodnight brother.
Thank you for the talk.
He extends his flawless, frankly, excessive wings, and CAS is once again aware of a painfully overwhelming amount of envy coursing through him. He pushes the power button on the remote.
CAS
Good night.
He, too, stands now, pulling DEAN and the blanket up with him.
--Oh, and, Michael, if you don't mind, I'd prefer to keep what we discussed tonight purely between us.
MICHAEL grins at him, then flies himself and ADAM away.
MICHAEL
Of course, Castiel, I'm not an idiot.
He responds via their angelic frequency. And CAS supposes that, perhaps, MICHAEL may indeed not be, at least no more than he is one himself. Which, given everything, may unfortunately conclude that they are the two most foolish angels in the entire history of existence.
FADE OUT.
FADE IN.
INT. THE BUNKERS KITCHEN - THE ASS CRACK OF DAWN.
DEAN WINCHESTER sits slumped over on the table with a coffee in his grasp. He cups it tentatively in both hands, purely content to use the licensed DR. SEXY cowboy-boot shaped mug as a means for warming his hands. CASTIEL projects a visual image of his vessel opposite DEAN, silently observing him. DEAN mumbles with his mouth mushed against the table.
DEAN
Ya starin’ ‘t me.
CAS
I just don’t understand why you’re insistent upon waking up so early, when you clearly need more rest.
DEAN groans and lifts his head like it weighs a million tonnes; he’d glare if he had the energy to.
DEAN
Sam should be back any minute.
You think I should just let him soak alone in all… everything, while I just starfish in dreamtown?
He moves a hand off his mug, under his chin, to keep his head from smacking back against the table
CAS
You could rest and I could debrief him?
DEAN smirks, lazily.
DEAN
I appreciate it, Cas, but it's gotta be me.
He speaks through his teeth, unable to find the effort to open his mouth as he speaks. CAS sighs and stares down the coffee between them.
CAS
I could… pretend to be you?
DEAN chuckles in a sharp exhale through his nose.
DEAN
Oh, yeah?
What's that sound like, huh?
CAS thinks for a moment.
CAS
I suppose it would begin something like,
“Hello, Sammy.”
Despite the fact that he’s mentioned multiple times that he despises that nickname.
DEAN
Nah, he loves it.
DEAN rolls his hand with a flick of his wrist.
Continue.
CAS attempts to hide his smile.
CAS
“How was your fun, not at all out-of-the-ordinary, road trip to meet your almost-in-laws?”.
DEAN’S brows shoot up.
DEAN
“Almost-in-laws” is a bit harsh considering she was gutted like a fish and fried extra crispy on the ceiling, right in front of him, but I’m likin’ the rest so far.
Then what's he say?
Somethin’ like, “It was fine”, but he's got a look on his face like someone just stole his ice cream cone?
CAS
Naturally.
Then you say, “Would you like to talk about it?”
And he replies that, “No”, he doesn't, and he's “fine”, once again, and you go back to worrying about him silently, or, alternatively you badger him constantly--- until he eventually, one way or another-- reveals that he is, in fact, not fine.
DEAN nods jerkily against his hand.
DEAN
Sounds about right.
Sorry, but I still gotta go through the motions.
‘Sides, you didn't quite nail my je ne se quoi.
He flourishes his free hand before tucking it back around the ceramic cowboy boot.
CAS
It would be much more effective if I used your voice.
DEAN
I bet.
He sighs.
What about you, Cas?
He sits himself up fully, letting his arm smack against the table, his hand reaching for his mug.
How you doing, you good?
He drags the coffee up to his mouth and tips it, so a dribble spills into his mouth, then places it back down with a cringe as he swallows.
CAS
I’m--
DEAN
--Don't say fine.
DEAN grunts out before CAS can finish, causing the angel to laugh.
CAS
I’m not... bad.
Honestly, I’d feel a lot better if I knew you were okay.
DEAN
Great…
Sorry, man, but I gotta keep up the charade a bit longer.
Once all this is over, and we know for certain that there’s no other shoe, I can retire the hype man routine, but until then I’m gonna be all Mr. Positive for everyone else on the outside…
And on the inside…
Well…you get it…
CAS
What if I were to take on that role?
DEAN scrunches his eyes at CAS.
What if you passed that moniker on to me?
DEAN
What, so, between the hours of twelve pm and four am, you can give rousing speeches to the masses while I'm snoozing?
He takes another sip of coffee, poking his tongue out after he swallows, in a showy display of disgust.
CAS
I was more referring to once I’m back in my own vessel…
If, that is, you would be okay with me remaining in the bunker, by then.
DEAN frowns in confusion.
DEAN
Why the hell wouldn't I be?
CAS raises a brow expectantly and DEAN’S eyes shift back down at the coffee in his hands, barely touched, almost full. He bravely peers up to find CAS is still watching him with the same damn look on his face, but with the added twitch of a smile at the corners of his mouth.
You gonna answer me or just keep staring?
CAS
I guess I just assumed that your reluctance to discuss what occurred prior to my death indicated--
DEAN
--Just--
He holds a hand up to stop CAS from talking.
--I said, I wanted to wait until you're back in your own body to talk about it, Cas.
That way, if you don't like what I have to say…
Well, then you can-- I don't know--
He widens his eyes, eyebrows raised.
-- Pull another disappearing act.
CAS knits his brows together and grimaces at the ridiculous mug in DEAN'S hands as he begrudgingly takes another sip from it and gags.
CAS
I didn't “pull a disappearing act”, Dean, it wasn't--
He's cut short with a pointed look from DEAN as an exhausted SAM drags himself down the stairs into the kitchen. He does a double take at DEAN’S unexpected presence and sighs.
SAM
Hey.
He flops himself down into the seat beside DEAN.
DEAN
So… how’d it go?
SAM scowls at his brother and drags DEAN'S mug, unchallenged, from his grasp and across the table.
That good, huh?
SAM rolls his eyes and takes a huge drink from the mug, swallowing it twice before really even tasting it, and boy, when he does…
SAM
Wh--ugh
His eyes water as he chokes on the liquid and spits it back into the mug. He then slams the mug on the table in revulsion and pushes it back to DEAN, who is wearing a grin so big that his dehydrated bottom lip splits open.
DEAN
And that’s a lesson on taking other people's things.
He sucks on his sore and bloody lip as SAM huffs and moans while trying to brush the taste from his tongue with his fingers.
CAS
Is it really worthy of that much drama?
DEAN giggles (like, actually, giggles!) at CAS’S wounded feelings as SAM continues to rake at his tongue. He leaves his seat, fumbles one-handed for a clean glass to fill with water and swishes it around in his mouth, spitting it into the sink.
SAM
What'd you put in that?
He asks all nasally, back turned to them, hunched over the sink. CAS watches DEAN fondly as he now explodes in laughter. SAM takes another mouthful, gargles it loudly and shoots it down the drain.
DEAN
About… five square miles… of sugar… and some… Greek yogurt.
He manages to get out through his laughter, causing SAM to spin around and gape at his brother. DEAN simply raises a shoulder in a shrug and licks at the crack on his lip while bobbing up and down, laughing silently.
Cas craving.
He explains with a hand on his lower stomach. He sighs and rubs his eyes. SAM looks DEAN up and down with pursed lips.
SAM
Dude, you gotta stop that.
DEAN spares CAS a glance and is overwhelmed by the look of warmth on the angel's face. He rips his gaze away and sniffs.
DEAN
Stop what?
He pulls himself up to put on another pot of coffee and doubles back to grab his mug, pushing SAM aside to pour CAS'S chunky monstrosity into the sink.
SAM
Pretending you're pregnant with Cas as your fetus, man, it's beyond weird.
DEAN hums a laugh as he rinses out his mug and fills the coffee pot with water.
DEAN
Speaking of infants, how is Jess?
He wanders over to the coffee machine without sparing SAM another look, though he knows he's got the “Please, sir. That's not your ice-cream cone” face going. SAM exhales and slumps himself back into his chair.
SAM
Yeah, she's taking it all just about as well as you can imagine…
DEAN adds the coffee to the filter.
DEAN
And her folks?
He glances over his shoulder and sees the damn face on SAM'S face. He presses the button on the machine and turns around, leaning against the side table.
SAM
Religious enough to be an issue for her if they start praying thanks to God…
He rests his head on his hands.
I basically told her to try to tell them… without telling them… why they can't do that…
He shakes his head, runs his hands through his hair and sighs.
I feel like I, kind of, just, gave her my new number, told her to phone once a day, and set her loose alone on the world, probably just to be doomed by it, all over again.
CAS
She has more allies this time around.
We all do.
DEAN nods.
DEAN
Cas wants me to remind you that we're not alone in this, this time.
We have a helluva lot of hands back in the game, and a couple of ‘em even come fully equipped with built-in knuckle busters.
SAM pulls half of his mouth into a sorry excuse for a smile.
Look, Jody’s gonna stop by on her way back to Sioux Falls with her old new family, right?
We got Cheat codes keepin’ an eye on her too…
You can listen to her complaint about how confusing Instagram is when she calls in a few hours…
Everything's gonna be okay, Sammy.
SAM
Its--
I--
You don't get it, Dean.
His voice is small when he speaks again.
The way she looked at me…
Like no time had passed, but like I was a complete stranger?
I can't stop seeing her face.
It makes me feel sick.
The coffee machine pours and beeps. DEAN begins to fill up cups.
CAS
You should remind that she will get used to it all eventually, just as Mary did.
DEAN
Jess just needs some normal right now…
Or as close as she's gonna get.
It took mom a while to get back into the flow of things, once she was brought back, right?
DEAN carries the mugs over to the table and carefully places one in front of each of them.
She just needs a minute or two to get used to things.
We've seen it before.
SAM and CAS stare down at the cup placed in front of the angel.
CAS
While I appreciate the notion, Dean…
SAM
Uh, Dean?
He gestures with a nod toward the third coffee cup... And only now does DEAN see the mistake. He sighs and pulls CAS’S cup toward him.
DEAN
Whatever, I’ve only had clumpy sugar water this morning, brain's not awake yet.
Sue me.
SAM smiles warmly at his big brother.
SAM
Dude, your lips bleeding, too.
When was the last time you drank some water.
DEAN
...Water?
That's the one that comes outta clouds, right?
SAM puffs.
SAM
Yeah, surprised you've heard of it, s’non-alcoholic…
Cas, you droppin' the ball, huh?
He sniffs, and his grin falls.
...Not to be-- er-- me, about all of this but, uh…
You sure, he is actually in there?
Letting you treat yourself like shit doesn't seem very on brand.
DEAN tries to play off the fear and confusion that his brother’s question unfortunately evokes. He ignores the pit in his stomach and flashes his brother a prize smile.
DEAN
Huh…
DEAN turns to CAS and pokes a finger through his visual projection.
You're real, right?
CAS sighs, and with some effort, wields a portion of his grace to unveil his wings in this reality, only barely managing to bring through his middle two, as he normally would. DEAN wildly snaps his head side to side as he ogles CAS'S crippled wings. Feathers fall from his wings at the labour, and even his little avatar of himself (projected purely for DEAN'S benefit), slumps against the chair due to his exertion as he allows his wings to return to their natural state. SAM smiles at DEAN'S slack jaw staring, into the space that he rightfully assumes is where CAS is casting himself.
Uh, yeah…
I think we should probably not blame Cas for leading me to water.
I'm the idiot who chose not to drink.
SAM nods in response.
That could have been crazy, right!?
He laughs.
SAM
Yeah...
Looks like you'd both benefit from a glass or two…
You get much sleep last night?
DEAN shrugs.
DEAN
More than you.
SAM nods.
You eat?
SAM huffs a laugh.
SAM
Got some wilted lettuce, or quote unquote, salad, when I stopped for gas.
DEAN eyes his brother then reaches over, snatches his coffee and pulls it toward him to join the other two mugs. SAM pouts in confusion.
DEAN
Changed my mind.
We're all way too old for this shit.
He groans as he stands.
It's bedtime.
He pats SAM on the back.
Let's go.
CAS stares at DEAN Like he’s just won the damn lottery, and DEAN starts pushing the air with his hands, like he's trying to herd his brother out of the room.
SAM
It's almost 5:30, Dean.
A lot of people are up this early.
DEAN collects the mugs with a clink of ceramic and takes them over to the sink.
DEAN
Don't care.
He empties the mugs and rinses them.
We ain't a lot of people.
If we don't get more sleep during all this crazy, it’ll do us in, Sam.
He shakes the mugs a few times, then places them into their new dishwasher.
And I know, you know, I’m right about this one, Mr. Dialysis Machine.
SAM sighs and glances down at his thumb. A mangled mess of a thing with a twisted bandage covering only the worst of the damage. He's managed to pick all around and under it, anyway.
CAS
Not to push my luck, but you're making a really healthy choice, here, Dean.
DEAN smiles to himself as he clicks the washing machine shut, he makes sure he's rockin’ a humble and stoic mask, when he straightens himself out and turns to face the others. SAM sighs.
SAM
Okay, I'll try get a few hours, I guess.
He rises from his seat.
Probably better not to have been up for forty-eight hours when going to have dinner with mom and dad, anyway, right?
DEAN
Right.
Uh, but also, maybe with the Campbell's... and maybe with Henry…
SAM flops his head down in defeat, his hair almost passing his chest with his head like this. He takes a deep breath in and nods.
SAM
Sure, why not?
CAS
And maybe Adam?
I accidentally informed Michael that this family reunion would be taking place and promised I'd at least try to get your brother invited.
DEAN'S mouth falls open, and his eyes narrow. He lets out a strained laugh in a sigh. SAM waits expectantly.
DEAN
Mmm…
He clenches his fists as he nods.
Cas says Michael knows and wants Adam to gatecrash.
He rolls his neck, stretching it out.
SAM
How'd Michael even find out?
DEAN
I made the mistake of letting Big Mouth, here, wander ‘round the halls at night while I slept…
He glares at CAS.
--rookie mistake.
CAS sighs and SAM chuckles.
SAM
Know what… Fuck it.
At this stage, what's the worst that could happen?
DEAN
I don't know, Sammy, maybe someone endin' up gettin’ shot?!
He states like it's the most obvious thing in the world. SAM snorts.
SAM
Nah.
Yelling, probably... but I doubt anyone’s actually gonna be pulling any triggers.
DEAN raises a brow.
DEAN
Helluva lot of confidence in a group of liquored up hunters.
DEAN adjusts his stance.
Think we should at least run it by Dad first?
CAS
I assumed you would…
SAM
Honestly, you can if you want.
Or I can, if you don't want to?
Or nobody has to... It's completely up to you, though, I-- I can't.
He throws his arms up in a shrug.
You were right, sleep is…
I need sleep.
He shakes his head, then turns to leave the kitchen.
Night guys.
He shakes his head again and continues to do so as he disappears from view. DEAN bares his teeth, cringing at CAS.
DEAN
Well...
He claps his hands together.
I think we broke him.
BLACKOUT.
END OF PART ONE
Chapter 14: "Mothman" part 2
Summary:
Who We Are.
Chapter Text
PART TWO
INT. MOL LIBRARY - AFTERNOON
By the time SAM wakes up and stumbles his way into the Map Room, DEAN is already wide awake in the library, sitting in front of his new computer, with a brand new two-litre water bottle beside him, and scrolling through about a million,open tabs. SAM staggers through the Map Room, past KEVIN and LINDA TRAN with a tight smile, and wanders over to his brother. He yawns and flicks his brother's arm with the back of his spare hand.
SAM
Cas sittin’ there?
He asks, pointing to the seat across from DEAN, when he looks up at him with a glare.
DEAN
Huh?
Oh, nah.
DEAN points to the seat beside him… Of course. SAM takes his seat and rests his arms on the table, then uses them as a pillow as he groans.
How was your nap?
DEAN asks in a voice like a kindergarten teacher. SAM barely manages to flip him off.
Well, mine was great.
He sighs.
You didn't wanna tell me the four horsemen are back in play?
SAM raises his head, balancing his chin on his forearm. He stares down at the mug of coffee that has appeared out of nowhere and searches the room to find THE CAMERA.
SAM
Are they?
He asks and decides to claim his coffee.
DEAN
What, Corona just a fancy beer to you?
SAM lets his face fall blank.
Sam, you did know there was a worldwide pandemic, right?
SAM rolls his eyes.
SAM
Sometimes people just do dumb shit, Dean.
Not every bad thing that happens is because of monsters.
DEAN laughs and whips his head to the space beside him.
DEAN
You hearing this shit, man?
He laughs again and turns back to SAM.
What show you been watchin’?
It's always monsters, Sammy.
SAM sighs.
I don't even know if these suckers stay dead.
I mean, we killed death, another one popped up in his place… ain't exactly like war ever cashed in on any of his annual leave.
SAM
Great.
You got a lead, I'm guessin’?
DEAN
Not exactly…
SAM sips at his drink and waits for DEAN to stop being dramatic. DEAN turns back down to his laptop as he speaks, exiting a few windows.
Couldn't find squat on any Jockeys, guess they all just popped up, did some major damage, and went back into… wherever it is they hide out, horseman break room?
Whatever… I, uh, did find…
He clicks on a few tabs until he finds what he's looking for.
Wait for it…
He spins the laptop around so it faces SAM and splays his hands in a fandangle.
Mothman…
SAM raises a brow, and DEAN turns his laptop back toward himself.
Now, I know what you're gonna say, but I'm telling you it's him.
He points to his fingers as he ticks off each item on the list.
Point Pleasant, ripped dude, seven feet tall, wings, and,
“Unable to discern their exact facial features due to the hypnotic effects of their red eyes”.
He quotes. SAM shakes his head. He doesn't have the energy to be gentle.
SAM
Dean, we know Mothman isn't a real thing.
DEAN
No, we've been told he isn't, there's a difference.
Those other hunters who've gone after the Holy Grail job don't have our skills, Sam.
If anyone’s gonna be able to find the bastard, it's us.
SAM
Then what?
We don't have any clue how to kill the thing, or even if we should.
Not exactly like he's dropping bodies or anything, and last I checked, being a giant bug i’n't a crime.
The desperation in DEAN'S eyes starts to show.
DEAN
He's stolen some dogs…
He mumbles.
Look, Sam, I get that it's a long shot, but long shots are what we're best at, right?
And, I just-- I'll be honest, I gotta get my sea legs back, man.
He shuts his laptop.
But, if you're not up for it, that's fine, I just figured you might want in on this one, just in case it does pan out and we get to bring home his head to add to our collection above the fireplace…
He shrugs, feigning indifference.
Otherwise, I guess I'll just have to mount him in my bedroom.
CLAIRE
Wait… who are you mounting in your bedroom?
SAM grins from behind his coffee as CLAIRE wanders up behind DEAN and stands beside the table.
DEAN
Hmm?
I--
Wha-- I just--
No?
DEAN swallows and laughs.
… Mothman?
He mutters, and SAM is hit with a vague memory of DEAN at age sixteen or so, ruler of the “I’m so tough and don't care about anything” club, getting caught smoking by their dad one day after school. JOHN turned up unexpectedly a few days early after a hunt and laid into DEAN, hard. As soon as he thought nobody was watching, DEAN broke down crying-- snot everywhere. In all fairness, though, JOHN had said some pretty messed up shit, but it wa'n't exactly like he'd never said messed up shit before…
CLAIRE
You wanna… bone… Mothman?
SAM’S brought back to the present.
SAM
Dean wants to hunt Mothman.
He explains with an eye roll. CLAIRE squints and looks between the two brothers.
CLAIRE
Wait… Mothman’s real?
SAM
--No.
DEAN
--Yes.
They both answer at the same time. SAM stares his brother down. He knows DEAN clearly just wants to take a break from all the resurrection drama around the bunker, which is totally valid, and maybe-- technically, a shockingly good idea for his mental state-- but to do it for a job like this? When there's a long ass list of far more important things they could be doing? It all just seems a little self-indulgent at this particular point in time.
… Well, we don't really know for sure either way.
DEAN amends.
But if he is real, he’s gotten real active in the last week or so, so Cas and I are gonna go check it out.
He glowers at SAM.
With or without, Sam.
CLAIRE
Fine!
Okay, I'll come!
Jeez, stop begging already.
She says, flopping herself against the table dramatically. SAM raises a brow at DEAN and simply continues to sip on his coffee as his brother looks to him for help.
DEAN
I was actually planning on heading straight there, after dinner tonight with the family, sorry kid.
He pats her head and throws some of her golden hair off his arm. She straightens herself back up and scowls at him.
But, uh, Sam’s right, probably just a black mold thing or-or some attention-starved wack jobs, looking for a fix or something.
He nods at SAM, hoping in vain that his younger brother will back him up, then sets his jaw in irritation when SAM just… continues to drink his coffee. DEAN turns away and continues.
Besides, not really even a hunting trip, more just a-a birdwatching type thing--
He draws a horizontal line in the air with his hand.
--zero action…
You're really not gonna miss out on anything.
CLAIRE
I’ll come with, to your family thing, if it's easier?
Then you won't need to come get me after?
Both brothers' eyebrows shoot up, and SAM snorts a laugh into his drink.
By the way, not sure if you've been paying attention, but I’m not a kid anymore, Dean, and I’m not gonna miss out on getting a selfie with The Mothman just because you wanna try get in his pants.
DEAN turns to the space where CAS sits beside him and grunts.
DEAN
Wha-- No, I don't really wanna fuck mothman!
He raises his arms in an act of surrender, as CLAIRE and SAM both try to hide their smirks.
If you wanna come to the worst dinner party in the history of existence, sit in on a long ass car ride, then walk ‘round Point Pleasant talkin’ to the local crazies, I ain't gonna stop ya.
But Claire-- and maybe I'm just projecting my own shit here-- but, you just got your mom back, don't you wanna-- I don't know-- spend more than five seconds with her?
CLAIRE flops herself back against the table again and mumbles against her arm.
CLAIRE
Hey dumbass, why do you think I'm so desperate to go with you?
DEAN sighs.
SAM
You can’t just pretend she isn't back, Claire.
She groans.
I get that it's a lot, but your mom being alive, that's a good thing.
You get another chance at being a real family, now.
CLAIRE turns her head, so her cheek is pressed into the table, squishing up half of her face.
CLAIRE
I already have a family.
She sighs.
That lady doesn't know me.
Not the real me, anyway.
She pulls herself back up.
I just need a break for a bit, and like, something to remind me that I’m actually kind of a badass, then I can come back, and let her cry at me some more about how much I’ve changed, and how it's all her fault.
DEAN'S eyes flit around at his laptop for a second as he, no doubt, overthinks something.
DEAN
Pack light--
She beams.
-- but we're using you as a buffer during dinner.
Sound fair?
CLAIRE
Beyond fair.
You honestly won't regret it!
DEAN
I better not…
Kinda already do.
SAM sighs.
SAM
Guess I should probably come too, then.
He downs the rest of his coffee.
DEAN
Loving the enthusiasm.
He gives SAM a double thumbs up as his brother stands and scrapes his chair against the floor.
FADE OUT
FADE IN
INT. MOL BUNKER KITCHEN - AFTERNOON.
SAM almost walks straight into KAREN in the kitchen as she moves about the place with purpose. There’s a sweet, warm smell wafting out of the oven, and she's already moved onto clean-up duty. Both BOBBY’S sit watching her with hawk eyes. Original BOBBY (looking weirdly clean), occasionally shoots Apocalypse World BOBBY (who's made even more of an effort) some dirty looks, and SAM does not wanna get involved…
SAM
Sorry, can I just--
He attempts to walk into the stove area, waves his mug, and nods toward the dishwasher-- damn, it's on.
Oh, uh…
He turns the sink-- full… He chuckles awkwardly.
I'll just, uh--
KAREN
--That's fine, you can just leave it there.
She motions to the completely cluttered kitchen island.
I'll do it.
Gross. It's his mug. He can't exactly stand around and make sure she cleans it properly.
SAM
You sure?
KAREN
It's just the one mug, right?
SAM shrugs and smiles, nodding.
No worries at all, Sam.
Hey, if you wanna stick around, the timers about to go off.
She points to a little egg timer on the kitchen island.
SAM
Er-- pie, right?
He smiles, but her face drops.
KAREN
Uh, no…
She clears her throat, and SAM wants to bite his tongue off.
Sorry, but I think I might be done with them for a while…
She inhales sharply.
But, I've made some blueberry muffins if you're interested?
She leans in and lowers her voice.
The secret is to add some oats and cinnamon to the top.
She winks at him, and he gives her a laugh in return.
SAM
Uhm….
He peeks back around and accidentally makes direct eye contact with BOBBY, his BOBBY. He lifts his hand in a wave and knows it probably came across as natural as a-- as an… unnatural thing… I don't know, something they’d hunt. Take your pick.
KAREN
Don't worry about them, there's plenty to go around.
SAM inhales, then nods stiffly.
SAM
Sure.
Er, thanks.
He goes to sit by the BOBBY'S, then realizes he's still gripping his used mug, goes to put it in the full sink, but looking at it, he doubts it will even fit, so he turns a third time and just takes it with him over to the kitchen table. He slides into a seat, one away from Apocalypse world BOBBY, and pulls out his phone. He's got a message from KETCH that he opens and reads.
“Sam, I understand our relationship is somewhat strained, however, I wish to make this discomfort between us something of the past…
Firstly, I want to thank you for whatever hand you may have had in my resurrection.
Secondly, I wouldn't presume Dean would be quite as receptive to my expression of gratitude, given he once chose to kill me, so, if you could pass along my thanks to your brother, I’d appreciate that.
Thirdly, I am accompanied by Mr. Hendriksen and intend to rebuild the Men of Letters chapters within Britain, starting from the ground up. I believe with time, we may be successful in creating an organisation worthy of being considered something of a sister location to what you boys have created there in the US. This way we may gain the means to collaborate and assist in any future catastrophic events.
Will keep you updated.
Keep well,
Arthur Ketch.”
SAM snorts at the message. Seems he could have just said, “Gone back to England with that one FBI agent you met over a decade ago and wa'n't a complete idiot” and left it at that.
BOBBY 1
What's got you all worked up, Sam?
SAM
Just, uh--
He sends back a thumbs-up emoji and meets BOBBY 1'S gaze.
--Ketch, one of the, uh, British guys, last night.
He just sent me a whole manifesto…
Trying to make up for some past stuff he did, I guess.
BOBBY 2
Ketch?
What stuff, he need to make up for?
BOBBY 1
Take it, you know the guy?
He sends him a look of distaste, despite having only barely met KETCH himself.
BOBBY 2
Helped bring my people here from the apocalypse world.
So, you could say I'm partial to the guy.
SAM
Uh, well…
He did kill a whole bunch of innocent people, including the other British guy from last night…
And, uh, he--
He was obsessed with my mum, and I'm kinda shocked she didn't tell you about it, considering you guys were kinda together for a bit, right? And now, because she kept it from you, I'm kinda thinking she mighta been sleeping around more than I first thought, which is making me worry I'm somehow gonna accidentally say something at dinner, in front of my dad.
-- he's just a bit of a creep, I guess.
He shrugs. BOBBY 1 leans forward to speak across BOBBY 2.
BOBBY 1
That reminds me, Sam-- Not because he's a creep, but well--
He considers it, then seems to realize he's digressed.
--but because I got a message from Rufus last night.
Seems he was brought back with the rest of ‘em, but was put straight into one of his old cabins.
BOBBY 2
--Rufus?
Both SAM and BOBBY 1 look to him.
Not Rufus Turner?
B1
Let me guess, you've met the happy camper?
B2
Met?
He turns away from both KAREN and SAM now, focusing intently on BOBBY 1.
Damn near couldn't shake the guy for decades.
Always tried to one-up me, every hunt I did, never did any of the heavy lifting, though.
B1
Sounds like him.
B2
And he's here, you're sayin’?
B1
Up in Vermont's what he said.
He glances at KAREN, who's made a start on the mountain of dishes.
Seems the magic defibrillator knows he's not the type to want a joint welcome home party.
B2
You headed up there?
BOBBY 1 smiles bitterly.
B1
Kinda figure I’d be more use here.
SAM
Well, Dean wants to go… hunt--
He forces it out.
--Mothman… so you could--
BOBBY 1 and 2 both burst into laughter, it's eerie to hear. A rhythmic isolating beat of BOBBY chuckles.
B1
Kids always had a thing for that make-believe insect.
B2
He plannin’ to go find Big Foot, next?
SAM pulls his lips into an attempt at a smile as the BOBBY'S are set off. Singing their haunting laughter melody, and SAM pretends he isn't getting more and more concerned that DEAN'S expedition is an obvious cry for help. He is thankful for his phone as it starts vibrating, taking his mind off it all, even just for a second. He looks to see that JESSICA MOORE is calling, and with a smile to the room, he sets his mug down and finally has an excuse to leave. He strides out into the hallway, clicking the answer button.
INT. MOL HALLWAY - AFTERNOON
SAM continues walking.
SAM
Hey, Jess.
JESS
(Through the phone)
Oh, that was quick.
Hang on a sec.
SAM
Yeah, uh--
‘kay
SAM strolls absentmindedly past the MAP ROOM. Then, noticing EILEEN has made her way into the room, with her parents, sitting together at the dining table. He backs up and leans against the passageway to watch them.
JESS’S MOM
(Through the phone)
That's the hang-up button, so just keep away from that until you're ready.
JESS
(Through the phone)
Oh, huh...
Boop.
EILEEN is teaching her parents sign language. A fisted hand with thumb, index, and pinky raised, the hand moved side to side… “I love you”.
JESS'S MOM
(Through the phone)
Jessica…
You promised you would--
JESS
(Through the phone)
Mom, I'm kidding!
Okay--
Thank you--
SAM’S overwhelmed with too many feelings instantaneously, and his brain suddenly shuts down on him. He knows he's dissociating, not the first time it's ever happened. He keeps walking through the hallway, past the little glimpse of something too confusing to name.
INT. JESSICA'S BEDROOM - AFTERNOON
JESS sits on a mattress in her new “bedroom” at her parents' house. It hadn't taken SAM long to find their address, and it certainly wasn't the first time he'd ever looked. It seemed that after THE MOORE'S tried to sue Stanford over JESSICA'S death and lost, the couple had split up for a while and that much tragedy became too addictive for SAM to ignore. Not only had their daughter died because of him, but every misfortune afterwards was easily traceable to the moment he had decided to ask her out. It had been years since he'd stopped cyberstalking them, though, and much to SAM’S surprise, it had seemed they had both signed a lease together up in DENVER.
When her PARENTS led her into their new study and started putting together a bed for her, JESS made a crack about being glad that her parents weren't one of those couples who lost a child and kept the kid's room as a dedicated shrine to them. Her parents didn't seem to find it funny.
JESS'S MOM closes the door behind her with a click, and JESS exhales in a sigh.
SAM
(Through the phone)
Sounds like things are going, well, then?
JESS glances at THE CAMERA, jumps up off the blow-up mattress, heads away from US, toward the desk, and crosses her legs up under her on the chair.
JESS
Kind of went to college to get away from their overbearing parenting…
It's like I never left.
SAM
(Through the phone)
Yeah, I remember…
You had a curfew over the holidays, right?
JESS
Yeah…
I’m surprised you remember that?
She adjusts the phone, glancing at it in uncertainty, then tries to line it up to her ear.
SAM
(Through the phone)
Oh.
Uh, yeah…
I almost got you grounded and-- I mean-- I think we were all a little shocked how seriously you took it.
She laughs and then licks her lips as her brows knit together.
JESS
It's so crazy how clear you sound.
SAM hums in agreement from the other end of the call.
SAM
(Through the phone)
Technology has come pretty far.
JESS shakes her head and swallows audibly.
INT. MOL HALLWAY - AFTERNOON
JESS
(Through the phone)
No, I mean…
It's like you could be standing right here…
Like, the you that I remember…
If I close my eyes, I can picture you exactly as you were.
SAM is slammed back into reality with feelings of guilt so strong, he's worried his stomach might actually explode. He turns his back to THE CAMERA, pulls the phone away and slams the mute button so he can breathe. It's a stuttering mess of an inhale, but he counts in for seven, brings his phone back to his ear, holds his breath for six, then lets his breath out for five seconds, before swallowing and turning off mute on his end. He knows he'd need to repeat the breathing for it to get a chance to work, but too much time has passed, and JESS has just been waiting for him to say something.
SAM
Jess…
It's all he can manage, and it comes out like a whimper.
JESS
(Through the phone)
Lemmi guess… you're sorry?
She laughs, and sniffs, and SAM wants to throw his phone at the wall because he knows she's crying, now.
Always with the “sorrys”.
Enough with the “sorrys”!
You know, sometimes things can just happen, that suck and involve you a little, but aren't actually your fault…
She sniffs again.
SAM
Jess, if you’d never met me--
JESS
(Through the phone)
Oh, come on, Sam!
If I never met you?!
I was brought into your life by a literal demon, and it was the best thing that has ever happened to me.
SAM laughs, and tears start to pool in his eyes.
SAM
You deserved better.
You--
He pulls the phone away again and lets out a sob.
JESS
(Through the phone)
There is no better, Sam Winchester.
You're it.
I've always known it.
And… he's lost it. Full stream of tears.
And now, with everything I've been told--
You're a hero.
He grips his stomach and tries to calm his breathing as he cries.
You’ve saved the world, Sam
If I died as some pawn, so you could be an unholy king, like, yeah… I'd be pissed off…
He splutters a laugh.
But you took my death and made it mean something!
So, yeah, this sucks.
It really, really, really does, but it's not on you, Sam.
SAM exhales slowly. May as well go all in.
SAM
You--
Another sob. He clears his throat. He says the words in a rush.
You only really forgive me because you're still in love with me.
There's a gasped laugh from the other end that transforms back into crying.
JESS
(Through the phone)
No.
It's objective.
She laughs again, and this time it rings out like a gentle bell.
I will always love you, Sam.
The you that I remember, and again, that really, really fucking sucks!
She sobs again, and SAM’S face crumbles as he tries to hold in his own.
I guess I just need some time to get used to the way things are now.
She laughs and follows it up but a series of quick sniffs.
I think we can both agree it’d be a bad look, you and I together.
SAM huffs out, then inhales a wet gasp.
SAM
I think people’d assume I’m your dad.
He laughs.
JESS
(Through the phone)
I didn't wanna say it but…
She blurts another tearful pant of laughter.
SAM
I've missed you so much.
He closes his eyes and just lets himself cry. The sound of it can be heard echoing softly down the hallway as WE leave him to his phone call and WE…
FADE OUT.
FADE IN.
INT. PAPA GIOVANNI’S - NIGHT
DEAN enters the pizza restaurant and scans for the exits. He knows it's not necessary, considering it’s not exactly his first visit to good ol’ PAPA G’S, but also, JOHN and MARY are already seated, and they’d have scoped the place. Nevertheless, DEAN takes note that good ol’ PAPA G, hasn’t changed the chairs, so they’d still be easy to throw into the old shitty windows, if they need a quick escape. Whatever… he’s on edge, and old habits die hard. The car ride was only fifteen minutes, but it was the longest fifteen minutes of his life. CLAIRE had a shit tonne of questions about JOHN and MARY, and when both SAM and DEAN, tried to keep things vague and light, she’d seen straight through it and proclaimed that THE BROTHERS were both being “fuckin’ weird”, and said she “couldn’t wait for how awkward” the dinner would be. DEAN offered-- threatened-- but whatever… to turn around and drop her back at the bunker, but she just made more wisecracks about how he’s just tryin’ to get rid of her because he’s worried that she's “gonna cock block” him and MOTHMAN. Then SAM decided to join in and was talkin’ ‘bout how DEAN hadn’t “been laid for ages before [he] died,” and that he, “should definitely go for it and get some MOTHMAN ass”. DEAN was red in the face when he caught himself in the rearview, which is what finally set CAS off, wantin’ to know what exactly it was about MOTHMAN that made him so desirable. When DEAN had thought it was a funny thing to share with the group… like maybe they’d all turn their attention to CAS for a minute… it blew up in his face, ‘cause SAM decided to whip out a picture on his phone of the Point Pleasant Mothman statue, makin’ the whole evil gang decide to triple down on their teasing. The thing looks like it's been commissioned based on some jacked porn-star so badly that people even started leavin’ singles in its ass crack. And it’s not even a big deal, none of it is, he knows that. It’s just the idea of going to sit down and eat with his dad and only moments earlier, somehow being conned into admitting how anyone’d agree the statue ain't exactly bad lookin’, if you threw a bag over the head and found someone to add something in the downstairs region so it wasn't like bronzed Ken doll… the whole thing seems like askin’ for a beating.
DEAN’S buzzing with a sick electricity as he walks across the sticky floors, toward the long-ass table-- four regular square ones squished together for all their newly revived family members-- CHRISTIAN and GWEN are MIA, so it's just the patriarchs plus MARY… Less people to shoot or get shot by if things get outta hand.
CAS
Dean.
DEAN stops and lets SAM and CLAIRE pass him. He smiles at everyone and throws ‘em a wave as the table stands to hug SAM and no doubt break CLAIRE'S hand with a firm hunter's handshake. DEAN turns to CAS, he looks him up and down.
I know you're uncomfortable explaining to people that you've willingly taken me in.
DEAN’S brows pull together, and he only just resists the urge to deny it.
I won't be offended, is my point…
If you--
DEAN clears his throat and notices that the group have finished their welcome and introduction to CLAIRE, and they're starting to look around for him. He mumbles under his breath.
DEAN
--‘Kay.
Thanks, Cas.
He inhales and smiles at his mom as they make eye contact. He is pulled forward by her smile, and it's like she's been brought back for the very first time… That's his mom? That's safety in human form! It's love, it's hugs, and it's bedtime stories. MARY is DEAN, before he became heavy, and rotten, and tired. He hugs her tight, and as quickly as it all came, he’s now able to remember that this MARY, his mother, well, she's no longer any of that. He's too big, and she's too hard. Her hugs aren't as soft, and he doesn't fit. She can't shield him completely in a hug, she can no longer hide him from the feeling of JOHN'S eyes all over him.
MARY
Dean.
Her voice is warm. He feels loved. He knows it's a difficult and confusing love, but he’s pretty certain it's there.
DEAN
Hey, Mom.
He smiles.
You good?
Everything-- everything’s good?
He tries to ask her in a way that points a glowing neon sign to the right of them… Guess it’s probably not the greatest time to ask…
MARY
It’ll be better once I have all my boys and some pizza.
DEAN chuckles and nods.
DEAN
Got it.
I’m movin’ it along.
He sidesteps to his dad.
Hey.
One-handed back slap, each, as a hug.
JOHN
Heya, Dean.
Glad you could all make it.
DEAN pulls his lips into a line and nods once, patting his dad on the upper arm before walking to a spare seat.
SAMUEL and HENRY elected to forgo the hugs and took a seat once he wandered over, which DEAN respects… not a massive fan of huggers. DEAN reaches in and fans out the laminated menus from the pile roughly in the middle of the tables. He slides one each to everyone, then starts pouring out glasses of water for everyone. When DEAN sits back down firmly against the chair, he finds CAS sitting in the spare seat beside him. He clears his throat and looks at his menu.
DEAN
So, what're we all havin’?
JOHN chuckles.
JOHN
Not even in the door yet and already straight to orderin’ ‘ey, piglet.
MARY’S eyes light up at the use of their nickname for DEAN, and she swipes JOHN lightly on the forearm with her menu.
DEAN
Oh, uh, I’m fine to wait… mom was just sayin’--
MARY
-- I can't believe you remember that, John!
DEAN swallows and looks down at the menu that’s been the same since before he even died, and he pretends to study it.
JOHN
You kiddin’?
Kid nearly ate us outta house and home.
DEAN can see SAM in the corner of his eye, watching him with pursed lips.
CLAIRE
So, nothing's changed then?
CLAIRE throws DEAN a teasing grin, he smiles, and keeps his eyes trained on the words of the menu. JOHN chuckles.
JOHN
Guess not, hey, Dean?
DEAN
Hmm?
He glances up.
Yeah, guess not.
He flashes a fake grin and shrugs, feeling exposed by the way both SAM and CAS just continue to stare at him.
Samuel!
He turns to the man seated on the other side of his mom.
How was the drive last night?
Everyone’s eyes leave DEAN, and he feels his back ease up some.
SAMUEL
Long.
He grumbles.
Henry has a lot of… interesting… views on hunting.
DEAN uses the menu to hide his smirk, and SAM opts to hide his own behind his glass of water.
CLAIRE
Oh, yeah, like what?
She leans forward on her elbows and squints at him in a challenge. SAM cringes in advance.
HENRY
I simply said that in my experience, most hunters are barbaric Neanderthals--
MARY'S mouth falls open.
--Not all… just… most.
CLAIRE snorts and JOHN simply eyes the man to his right, as if he were a total stranger… which he kinda is…
CLAIRE
No, don't worry, dude.
You're so right, we are.
She slaps SAM'S arm.
Right, Sam.
SAM
Uhh…
CLAIRE
See?
She pokes SAM in the head, and he grimaces.
Not a thought in there.
MARY hums a small laugh, but JOHN, well, he just laughs a little too hard, and DEAN grits his teeth.
DEAN
Yeah, not like the guy got a full ride to Stanford or anything.
DEAN'S eyes bulge, and his mouth gapes. He freezes. SAM huffs and slowly turns toward his brother with a sympathetic grin. JOHN WINCHESTER chuckles awkwardly and runs a hand over his mouth. The rest of the table flicks their eyes between the three, sensing the palpable tension.
SAM
It’s fine… right, Dad?
We moved past it?
SAM blinks slowly at JOHN, daring him to disagree.
JOHN
Yeah.
Right, Sammy.
He nods and watches MARY frown in confusion out of the corner of his eye.
You, uh, you got back on the right path and…
Well--
He leans back in his chair.
--Look at you kids now.
JOHN clears his throat as SAM’S eyes twitch a little, like he has something more to say... DEAN’S brain reboots.
DEAN
--Right!
So, let's talk about something else.
He drums against the table.
Claire, you at uni, or…?
She lets out a sarcastic laugh.
CLAIRE
No.
Never even made it to check out the campuses, remember?
DEAN peers at CAS, who’s far too busy reading the menu now to have any idea of any of the awkwardness that's happened over the last few minutes.
DEAN
Right, so, uh, no changes there, huh?
He looks to SAM, who is still twitching at their dad.
CLAIRE
Nope.
Just huntin’.
She grins.
DEAN
So, you're, like, the opposite of Sam.
Why? Why bring it up again?! Stupid. DEAN shakes his head and rests it in his hands. SAM watches DEAN fail at changing the conversation, and even CAS finally clues in that something bad is maybe going on here.
CAS
Are you alright?
DEAN swallows the lump in his throat with some effort.
SAM
So, uh, Mom, did you know that Claire is Cas’s Vessel, Jimmy's daughter?
DEAN snaps his head, not so subtly, to SAM with wild eyes. SAM looks right back at him like he’s lost his damn mind.
MARY
Oh!
Um, no, I didn't know that.
She smiles kindly.
I have heard a lot about you, though, Claire.
I just never realized that's how you all knew each other.
CLAIRE
Yep.
She pops her “P”.
JOHN
Vessel?
SAM
Oh.
He looks to DEAN, who is very obviously pretending to read the menu again.
Uh, yeah.
Remember how we said we lived with an angel?
They don't-- uh-- they--
CLAIRE
They gotta snatch a body to exist on earth.
DEAN peeks up to see CAS looking absolutely gutted by Claire's words, true as they are.
JOHN
What?
So, angels are just glorified demons?
DEAN
No.
They--
He clears his throat.
It's, uh--
MARY
--They need the okay from the person first, right?
Her voice is gentle, and when DEAN looks up at her, it's like she can see straight through him. She knows somehow. There is some way that she can see that CAS is sitting right next to him. He shrugs, completely pulling off his nonchalant act. Except he should definitely know that the answer is yes, so he, once again, has shot himself in the foot. CAS squints at him.
HENRY
From what I’ve learned, that’s right, Mary.
They need consent from the host.
SAMUEL
I dunno, I think, John might actually be right about this one.
My experience, angels are just demons, but with a bigger ego.
He laughs dryly, and CAS'S face drops again.
MARY
Not this one, though, right, boys?
SAM looks at DEAN again, waiting for him to speak, but DEAN just shrugs with wide eyes, causing SAM to scoff and CAS to look… Can an angel puke?
CLAIRE
Cas is alright, I guess.
She rolls her eyes with a smile.
He's come a long way, from being a gigantic cosmic dick, now, he's just kind of a doof.
DEAN feels like he's close to passing out at this stage, but everyone's still got their eyes on him, waiting for his thoughts on angels, for some reason.
DEAN
What she said.
MARY smiles at him with a sparkle in her eye, and DEAN clears his throat.
SAMUEL
Sure…
DEAN
Right, now can we think about our orders, or--
SAMUEL
-- Well, while you do that, I’m gonna go get us the first round of beers.
Hallelujah.
C’mon, Henry, give the kids a minute.
Wait, no.
They get up and retreat to the counter at the front of the restaurant, and the remaining people at their table watch them in an awkward silence. CLAIRE seems to lose interest and pulls out her phone, and SAM decides to take this as a sign to make things infinitely more hairy.
SAM
Actually, I have to ask…
He pipes, like he's mid-way through an argument only he is privy to.
Um, exactly how much have you two discussed about your alternating time away-- uh-- in heaven?
DEAN feels like his teeth are going to shatter with the force he clenches his jaw.
DEAN
Sam--
MARY leans across the table, grinning, and places a hand on DEAN’S and pats it twice.
MARY
It's okay, Dean.
She turns to JOHN and bumps her shoulder against his.
You mean Adam, Sam?
DEAN tries not to show surprise on his face. CAS'S face seems to take on all the shock he’s feeling, anyway.
Is that what you're talking about?
Or--
She laughs.
--Or me and Bobby?
DEAN'S gobsmacked, but SAM just pulls his mouth down at the sides and raises his brows; he seems impressed.
JOHN
Or… there was a tumble with a Man of Letters, right?
He smirks at her.
Your mom has a type.
He grabs her shoulder as a new thought occurs.
What about--
DEAN
--Okay!
He huffs and forces himself to smile.
We don't need to know every detail of everyone’s sex life…
He laughs and rubs at the back of his neck. JOHN chuckles and winks at MARY, who rolls her eyes fondly.
SAM
I, uh-- I only ask because Adam was actually wanting to-- or-- I don't know…
He looks to DEAN.
What’d Cas say?
DEAN
Uh--
He looks to CAS.
Think we missed the car on that one, Sam.
We were supposed to let him know if he could come, right?
CAS goes to reply, but SAM cuts him off.
SAM
Well, we could just pray to Michael, now, though, Dean.
Let him know that Adam can come?
We ha’n't even ordered yet.
JOHN looks at MARY with confusion, and she shrugs in return.
JOHN
Michael?
CLAIRE speaks without looking up from her phone.
CLAIRE
As in the archangel.
Adam’s his vessel.
JOHN looks like he's glitching, and DEAN wants to sink into his chair, or into the earth… JOHN opens his mouth to say something, closes it again, inhales sharply through his mouth, squints at each of his sons, then turns back to MARY, who just watches all of it happening with her eyebrows lowered.
SAM
They, um--
The apocalypse?
They were with me in the cage… long story, but they're kind of a package deal now…
JOHN
Adam?
DEAN wonders if he can make a run for it. He downs his entire glass of water.
M-My Adam?
Probably need to make sure SAM comes with him so he doesn't take on the brunt of it.
CAS
Dean, are you--
Your heart is beating incredibly fast…
MARY
Welcome to the brave new world.
She tries with a laugh.
JOHN
The archangel?
SAM
Yeah, Adam said, “yes” to him, just like I said yes to Lucifer and--
JOHN
YOU WHAT?!
JOHN slams a fist onto the table, and SAM and DEAN both jump at the outburst. MARY clears her throat and looks around at the other tables. Miraculously, only a few people are staring. JOHN clears his throat and takes a beat to breathe with his eyes closed.
CLAIRE
Uh… that was ages ago, right?
And didn't it… Kind of, save the world?
He turns on her.
JOHN
I know what--
Who the hell, even, are you?
MARY'S face starts to go red, and she places her hand on JOHN'S arm.
CLAIRE
Hi, I'm Claire.
We met just before, remember?
She bites back. SAM tries to subtly shake his head at CLAIRE to indicate that she's gotta keep a lid on the attitude. She grins sourly and rolls her eyes.
CAS
Dean, perhaps we should just leave?
MARY
John, it's a lot to process, but--
JOHN
What is Mary?
The fact that Dean, against all odds, is the only one of my kids with some actual goddamn brains.
Or--
Or that the rest of my kids have some kinda sickness in ‘em that made ‘em decide lettin’ monsters take over their bodies is somehow a good idea?
SAM laughs and JOHN turns to him slowly with a calm, dead-eyed look on his face that DEAN'S seen way too many times before.
Something funny, boy?
SAM
Just-- like Claire said, you're angry at something that happened over a decade ago.
And it saved the whole world, Dad.
Besides, you‘on't even know the half of it.
He shrugs, like he's just casually talking about something completely ordinary to someone normal. DEAN eyes SAM, warning him to shut up. JOHN bounces back to his other issue and points at CLAIRE.
JOHN
Who is this kid?
She one of yours?
He looks between SAM and DEAN.
CLAIRE
Ew.
No?
We literally just said how we know each other?
JOHN
Then why the hell’d she get an invite to family dinner?
He asks, in his commanding voice, and that makes DEAN realize that, yeah, he is a goddamn idiot for letting her come. Why the hell did he think it'd be okay to bring along some random kid, he helped indoctrinate into the shit filled life of a hunter? Did he think JOHN would pat him on the back and tell him he did a great job keeping the next generation safe? Did he want a gold star for stealing CLAIRE'S future away from her? CLAIRE, please, oh please, will you come and be the buffer at my family dinner, so that when someone reaches for a gun, I can brag to them how you once took on a pack of werewolves when you were only nineteen.
CLAIRE
Oh my god, dude.
She laughs.
Pick a struggle.
She rolls her eyes and goes back to her phone. John laughs.
JOHN
You-- what’d this little bitch just say to me?
JOHN smiles coldly and looks directly at DEAN, waiting for him to reply. Probably expecting something like “women, am I right?” or even just a laugh in agreement. CLAIRE huffs in a shocked laugh, and MARY starts rubbing JOHN’S back, and suddenly DEAN’S hit by a bulldozer of vague, almost memories, from his really early childhood in which she did the exact same thing, every single time they argued.
MARY
C’mon, John, just leave it.
It’s okay…
DEAN needs to punch something.
DEAN
Nope.
JOHN whips his head up as DEAN stands.
You don't get to call her that…
Claire's here ‘cause she's family.
She's a pain in the ass, sure, but she's still family.
He taps SAM on his back and beckons CLAIRE to stand too.
We're gonna postpone this-- not cancel--
He holds up a finger, silencing his mom before she even objects.
--postpone, for when you've been down here for a bit, I think.
Get yourself the lay of the land, then let us know when you're ready to try this again.
He sniffs and looks down at CAS, who is still seated, staring up at him, brimming with what looks like it could actually be something kind of resembling pride. HENRY and SAMUEL make their way back with two jugs of beer.
‘Cause the kicker is, I ain't smarter than Sam, or Adam--
He grins and holds his arms out.
--Had Cas-- poor sonofabitch-- sittin’ shotgun, this entire time…
JOHN looks at DEAN like he’s something stuck to the bottom of his tactical boot, but DEAN just shrugs and smiles at CAS. SAM waves jerkily at the table, then leads a cackling CLAIRE toward the exit, gently by her arm. DEAN nods at his mom, who looks truly distressed, and he forces himself to turn away. CAS joins him silently as he weaves his way around the other tables and out of the exit with the look on MARY'S face burned onto his eyelids.
BLACKOUT.
END OF PART TWO
Chapter 15: "Mothman" part 3
Summary:
Stuck In The Middle (With You).
Chapter Text
PART THREE
INT. BABY - POST SHIT SHOW.
SAM, CLAIRE, DEAN and CAS all piled back into the Impala and sat in an awkward silence for about ten minutes, before CLAIRE had clearly had enough, and reminded everyone that they hadn't eaten. DEAN plugged in the address of an old faithful 24-hour diner that'd take about an hour to reach, and the silence fell once again.
DEAN was gripping the steering wheel hard the entire rest of the way to their destination and tried to ignore the way everyone in the car took turns stealing looks that they all, incorrectly, assumed were going unnoticed. DEAN was managing to keep it together pretty well, he thought. Letting everyone have their own discomfort about the whole dinner, and not falling into the trap of asking why they were all staring.
Once they finally arrived, he'd smiled at the waitress who checked him out, made small talk (when everyone else started to pipe up again once they'd finally got some grub in ‘em), hell, he even ate the chicken salad ‘cause CAS wanted it and he figured some vegetables wouldn't hurt. Was as bland as cardboard, and he was hungry about a mile out, but at least he made “the healthy choice”.
Truth was, seeing CAS’S janky ass wings that morning after being told by ROWENA of all people, that CAS had been curled up in a ball in his head, well, that shit had kind of… messed with him a bit. Here DEAN was, going about his days like he normally would, all this crazy going on, once again, and he figured if it was enough to keep him going, why would CAS be any different? Turns out, keeping himself awake with coffee and pep pills, then getting CAS to knock him out at the end of the day, ain't exactly what they prescribe in heavenly hospitals for angel boo boo's. All DEAN really had to go off was GADREEL, persistently nagging for months ‘bout how he couldn't ditch SAM ‘cause they were both still at death's door, but obviously that dick could go lie for lie with Pinnochio.
Then, there's the fact that CAS has been a little, uh, not weak per se-- he's still a freak who could probably juggle a bunch of eighteen wheelers, no sweat-- but he's been… impaired… somehow, for a while, even before he-- ...yeah. So, DEAN figures he can kick the bad habits for a bit, get CAS out in the sun and-- and the fresh air, and dude might be well enough to bounce back into his old/new vessel in no time at all.
ANYWAY… car ride: CLAIRE conked out, using her jacket as a pillow against the window. CAS is just… watching CLAIRE sleep. SAM, however, can't stop yawning like crazy and keeps staring at DEAN, then staring at his mangled thumb like he's connecting the two of them somehow, making DEAN feel edgy.
(Time After Time by Cindi Lauper plays)
DEAN
If you don't either say what you wanna say, or go to sleep, I'm pulling over and leaving you in freakin’--
He looks around out the window at the scenery in the dark.
--Fairview?
Yeah, I'll leave you in Fairview!
SAM smirks.
SAM
No, it's just--
That was good, back there--
He throws his thumb over his shoulder.
--at dinner.
DEAN scoffs a sarcastic laugh.
DEAN
If that was good-- and you didn't think bullets were gonna start flyin’-- what in the hell did you think bad would’a looked like?
SAM shrugs a shoulder.
SAM
Dunno.
Just glad we never found out, I guess.
DEAN shakes his head incredulously, keeping his eyes on the road.
DEAN
Kind of hoped it'd be like last time we were all together, ya know?
SAM
Yeah.
Would’a been nice.
DEAN perks back up a bit.
DEAN
I guess all those years together in heaven 2.0 got ‘em airin’ out some shit, though, that-that’s a good thing, right?
SAM
Yeah, I don't know.
Maybe?
DEAN surveys the car. SAM picking at his thumb, CLAIRE still asleep, CAS looking out his window and mouthing the lyrics...
DEAN
Yeah, don't start planning a speech for their vowel renewal ceremony or anything, Sammy.
I know you're obviously very emotionally invested in our family unit finally getting its shit together.
SAM gives him a look like he’s-- like he is the one, ripping his finger to absolute fuckin’ shreds, one layer of skin at a time.
What?
SAM huffs.
SAM
You're all over the place, Dean.
DEAN sniffs and sits up in his seat to check BABY'S alignment, and SAM laughs in a frustrated groaning sound.
With Mom and Dad, you idiot, not the car.
DEAN
Oh.
Well, I mean, yeah, probably.
It's complicated, right?
Ain't that what you're always tellin’ me?
He puts on a wise SAM voice.
“Let yourself have mixed feelings about them.
Two things can be true at once.”
Or--
He lifts his hand and flips it over.
--I don't know, some shit like that?
SAM smiles.
SAM
Yeah, I guess.
It's just-- well, it's hard to keep track of, man.
He chuckles, then sighs.
I just… I wonder how much better it would have all gone down if…
DEAN spares SAM a quick glance, and SAM points upward.
DEAN
Right…
He can feel CAS looking at him now in the rearview mirror and knows he should say something to cheer them both up, but when it comes to their shared son, DEAN figures he's got no right to really even try. They sit there listening to the song quietly play, the engine purr, and the wind whip around them.
SAM
Either way, I know that it couldn't’ve exactly been easy for you to do that back there, but I’m glad you did.
DEAN
I-- Don't patronize me, dude.
I can stand up to dad, I’m no teenage douchebag, psyched to be rockin’ his dads hand-me-downs, anymore.
SAM snorts.
SAM
Remember when he went missing, and you wore his leather jacket, like, non-stop?
DEAN
Practically slept in the damn thing.
SAM snickers.
Hey, in fairness, I did think he was dead, so…
Kinda fucked you're laughin' 'bout it.
SAM
Okay, so, see how you just did another one-eighty, just now?
DEAN laughs and shakes his head, very innocently. He sighs.
It-- it's progress, I guess.
DEAN nods, then really considers it. He supposes it could be seen that way. His stomach is in knots, and he's still wired from it all, but, yeah, sure, it beats sticking around and lining up to get his ass kicked-- or maybe, even worse, a verbal ass kicking. He raises his brows, pulls down the corners of his mouth and tips his head to the side in actual agreement.
Anyway…
You can wake me up whenever it's my turn to drive.
DEAN
Sure.
Not too certain it's gonna happen, though.
I got Cas--
He winks at him in the rearview.
--If I need a break but, uh, I’m thinkin’ it's one of those too-jittery-to-sleep, kinda nights.
SAM frowns at him, then starts rustling around in his bag at his feet.
CAS
I can put you to sleep again, if you’d like?
SAM
--Here.
You could try this?
He pulls out a cassette called Mindful Meditations for Relaxation and Sleep. DEAN tries so damn hard not to look disgusted in it.
DEAN
Uh--
He points to SAM.
You.
No, uhm...
He clears his throat.
Thank you.
And you--
He points to CAS over his shoulder, while SAM puts the cassette back with a quiet sigh.
What works best for you?
Is it, uh-- a better…
Thing…
If I sleep?
Or is it, like--
He tilts his hand up and down.
You're keepin’ me sleepin’, so your grace keeps depletin’, type deal?
CAS
It’s up to you to choose.
It’s really such a minuscule difference that it barely even counts.
The best option would be if you managed to sleep by yourself, but--
DEAN
--But no bueno.
Well, what about you, though?
First couple'a nights you slept too, right?
Can't you just nod off while I drive, get yourself nice and recharged?
SAM
Dude, have you ever even read a single book about angels?
DEAN
I-- Yeah?
He looks between them with a frown.
Why?
CAS
I was just weaker, so I needed--
SAM
Cas sleeping is a really bad sign.
You should be glad he’s not.
DEAN can't help but put his foot on the brake, as if on instinct, like he's gotta get ready to jump out of the car and rush into a burning building or something. He doesn't quite put his weight on it. He peers up at CAS in the rearview.
CAS
It's not that bad.
I mean, usually-- It would normally just mean I have such a low level of grace that I’m practically human-- or literally human.
Sharing a vessel and becoming human, however, I’m not sure what would become of us if that were to happen.
I would imagine I would probably die and maybe kill you in the process, but I think it’d be best if we never find out if I'm right.
DEAN
Okay.
Cool.
Sleepy Cas, less novelty, more emergency… got it.
So, uh-- exactly how, uh, anaemic… are you, Cas?
What we dealin’ with here-- timeline wise?
You thinkin’ days, weeks, or centuries before you're well enough to ditch me for your vessel?
CAS
It's… hard to say…
I don't want you to take this the wrong way, but you've changed your habits rather drastically lately.
DEAN frowns. Understatement.
While that's adding further stress to you, it's also been regenerative for me, so…
It really depends on how you treat yourself.
DEAN
Figures.
Alright, so, best choice would be…
You drivin’, Sammy's hippy tape on, telling me to picture my mind as a waterfall or some stupid shit--
SAM tuts.
-- and me tappin’ the hell out, right?
CAS
It would be.
The question is, can you do it?
To keep Cas from dying and putting himself back at square one up in heaven's time out? He can give it a go at the very least.
DEAN
Right, so--
His eyes flit between CAS and his hands.
--Uh… take the wheel then, Cas.
Literally and, um, yeah…
DEAN feels himself sink into his body like he has a few too many times to count, except it's different this time. It's not like he’s coupled with the overwhelming fear that he can't pull himself back up. He knows he can open his mouth right now and talk, he can wave, he could even put his feet up on the dash, if he wanted. Instead of the usual drowning feeling that comes with letting someone or something else take over your body like that, it's like he's in a soft cloud-- or what he used to imagine a cloud was like when he was younger. You know, squishy, light, nice-- not water, not drowning. He takes his left hand back from CAS and uses it to give SAM a backhanded tap on his arm.
Tape, dude.
We're sleep driving.
He chuckles.
…Sleeving
SAM pulls his tape back out of his bag and pushes it into the tape deck.
SAM
Okay, but if you hate it and start making fun of me--
He presses play.
--I'll be the one that's sleeving… on a greyhound and back to the bunker, without you.
CAS hums a laugh from his casted image, still sitting in the back seat. A lady's gentle, soothing voice, drones from the Impala speakers along with some gentle tones like flowing waves…
"Welcome.
You're listening to Mindful Meditations for Relaxation and Sleep.
Take a moment to get into a comfortable position, close down your eyes and settle in.
Trust that your body will naturally find a position that feels right for you."
DEAN
So weird…
Through his own eyes, that he's lending to CAS, he watches from the cozy CAS cloud, deep in his body, as he picks up his own hand and pokes his other, CAS one. He has an urge to pinch it to see if he can feel it, but somehow just manages to stop himself. He can feel himself getting tired, heavy. The lady on the tape got hired for a reason… her voice is so nice, DEAN'S starting to wonder why he hasn't been doing this for years.
"Try to slow down your breathing.
Allow each exhale to be long and steady as you experience the release of each breath out."
DEAN does as she says. It's super weird, and he has to ignore the part of him that’s cringing about it. He knows he's gotta take this shit seriously if he ever wants CAS to get better. The alternative could be literally fatal, and he owes him that much… especially after…
From 15.20 Despair:
CAS stands in front of DEAN, smiling through tears.
CASTIEL
Everything you have ever done, the good and the bad, you have done for love.
You raised your little brother for love.
You fought for this whole world for love.
That is who you are.
You're the most caring man on Earth.
You are the most selfless, loving human being I will ever know…
DEAN rips back his body and slams his foot on the brake. There's distant yelling from the other passengers, and THE IMPALA skids on gravel as DEAN pulls onto the side of the road. When THE IMPALA finally comes to a stop, he spins around in his seat and glares at THE CAMERA.
DEAN
Outside.
Now.
Ignoring all else, DEAN turns the keys in the ignition and shoves open his door. The metal of the hinges screams into the quiet of the night. DEAN marches to the back of the car, and rubbing a hand over his face, he begins to pace. CAS appears in front of him with a raised brow and lazily crossed arms, stopping him mid-lap as DEAN waits for US to join him outside. He glares at CAS, and when the angel refuses to move, DEAN throws his arms up.
DEAN
What?!
CAS, the infuriating dick he is, actually has the nerve to smile.
CAS
I’m sorry.
I know you hate talking about it-- or you say you want to wait, but… since you allowed me to have access to the majority of your mind… well… to put it plainly…
… I saw that.
DEAN'S eyes are wild with rage. He shrugs.
DEAN
Your point?!
CAS smile widens at DEAN'S feet, then slowly draws his gaze up over DEAN'S body to eventually meet his eyes. DEAN swallows and pulls his brows down.
CAS
Remember before, when I first met… Cheat Codes-- or whatever we’re naming them today-- when you took control of their way of communicating?
DEAN
Yeah.
‘Course I do.
Felt like I got conned into smokin' the Wacky Tabaccy laced with some strong ass hallucinogens…
Why?
CAS simply looks at him expectantly. DEAN frowns.
CAS
They're always there, in your head-- Cheat Codes, I mean.
Projecting themselves here like I am.
You-- I assume it was a subconscious decision, but you pulled that memory out of them.
It-- I don't know.
You were falling asleep and then suddenly--
He cocks his head at an angle and studies DEAN.
--What were you thinking about as you were about to sleep?
DEAN laughs, rubs at his stubble, and shakes his head. Anger vanished.
DEAN
You sure…
You saw me doin’ it?
CAS
Certain.
But--
DEAN
--’kay, guess that's my bad.
He nods and chuckles.
Clearly, I need that beauty sleep, huh?
Should, uh-- probably try that all over again, then.
You know, minus the whole--
He waves a hand at the car.
--freak out part.
CAS
Dean, I'm sorry that I…
I never meant to cause you any harm, you know that, right?
He pulls his lips into a frown.
When I--
DEAN
--Cas.
Not kiddin’ when I say, we're not gonna touch that with a sixty-billion-foot pole, until you're back on your home turf, okay.
Just-- you gotta stop bringing it up, man.
He looks him over with pursed lips.
I'm serious.
CAS
I only wanted to suggest that--
DEAN laughs and throws his hands in the air in frustration. CAS speaks with determination.
If you'd prefer…
I can take it from you--
DEAN recoils.
--The memory.
Or I could change it.
Make it so, Billie, simply killed me, instead?
DEAN clenches his hand as he stares at the ground between them, eyes flickering back and forth as he works his mind through what CAS says.
Then you wouldn't be able to seek it from them anymore.
DEAN exhales.
DEAN
God, you're a dick sometimes.
CAS
Okay?
So, is that a--
DEAN
--It’s a no!
He growls.
C'mon, Cas!
You can't just wave a magic wand and take all that shit back, man.
That's not how it works!
DEAN shakes his head and walks back to the driver's seat. He climbs in and turns the car back on, making sure to keep his eyes firmly trained on the road. He sighs, then holds up an invisible CB radio and makes the clicker “Chhht” sound in his cheeks.
False alarm, sorry passengers.
We'll be ready to depart momentarily for your journey onward to the lovely Point Pleasant, where the temperature at time of arrival is expected to be a lovely, “not shitty”, degrees and sunny.
Please remember to stow your crap and keep a lid on any and all future crazy.
This has been your melodramatic driver speaking.
Please enjoy the rest of your flight.
FADE OUT.
INT. BABY - 3:12 pm.
CASTIEL pulls the Impala into THE ROYAL COMFORT HOTEL AND SPA. He picked it based purely on the notion that it was the most expensive place to stay in POINT PLEASANT, and that SAM and DEAN had seemed to enjoy their most recent hotel stay far greater than the others due to the novelties that came with more unaccustomed grandeur. CAS hoped that the promise of a more luxurious place to situate himself while in POINT PLEASANT might improve DEAN'S mood, given the… uncomfortable conversation that occurred the previous night. CAS wakes DEAN gently, cautiously, and DEAN yawns, looking around the car, getting his bearings.
CAS
We’ve arrived in Point Pleasant--
DEAN sits up and wildly looks out of the windows as both CLAIRE and SAM snicker under their breath.
I… may have overindulged in your sleeping time…
DEAN blinks at CAS'S projected self in the rearview.
DEAN
Gee, you think?!
He snatches up his phone and checks the time, closes his eyes, and then counts on his fingers. His eyes spring open at the mirror.
Thirteen hours?!
You let me sleep for thirteen--
Why would--
What the hell, Cas?!
SAM
In all fairness, it wa'n't just Cas.
We all decided you could probably use the rest.
Besides, what were you missing out on, really?
DEAN looks at his brother with shock at his perceived betrayal, apparent in his eyes. CLAIRE stretches and opens her car door.
CLAIRE
Anyway… I’m gonna go check out my room.
Message me when you're ready to go.
She salutes them, drags her duffle bag along the seat, hoists it over her shoulder, and shuts the door. SAM follows her lead and opens his door, but DEAN remains seated, staring daggers into the mirror. He scrubs his mouth.
DEAN
Coulda at least got me a coffee.
WE place a black coffee in a travel mug on the bench seat next to him.
Oh.
He looks at THE CAMERA sheepishly and lifts the mug. After sculling it, he glances down at it and turns it over.
Ha, ha.
Very funny.
The mug has a Disney insignia, a blonde princess in a pink dress, and the name “Sleeping Beauty” printed on it. He lets out a mix between a chuckle and a sigh and shakes his head.
INT. THE ROYAL COMFORT HOTEL AND SPA - 3:19 pm.
DEAN milks his grievance for everything it's worth as he shuffles through the hotel's grand lobby. He walks with the pace of a fictional zombie character and grunts and moans about how much he hates that they all let him oversleep, throughout the entire walk across the marble floor, to the desk. The kind man hands him his room key, and DEAN doesn't even thank him. SAM, however, does thank the man on both of their behalf and gives him an uncomfortable smile for good measure. When they leave the lobby and reach the elevator, SAM and DEAN both stop in their tracks. DEAN squints at the couple walking out of the sliding doors. Both members of the young couple have a strange darkness to their auras.
SAM
Uh… Max?
A--Alicia?
The man-- MAX'S, face flashes with terror for 0.23 seconds before the woman-- his sister, looks his way with a smile, and he dons a pleasant look in return. SAM laughs and looks at THE CAMERA.
You really have been busy, huh?
ALICIA
Sam, Hey!
Dean!
The pair wander down the alcove towards them.
DEAN
Hey, Leesh.
Welcome back to the land of the living!
He winks at THE CAMERA. ALICIA turns to her brother with an uncertain smirk.
ALICIA
Sorry?
FROM 12.20, Twigs & Twine & Tasha Banes:
CLOSE ON Alicia Banes’ eyes. They flutter open. We STAY TIGHT ON HER as she throws her feet over the edge of the bed and sits up. As if waking from a nap. She looks up.
ALICIA
What happened?
I feel, ugh, I feel like I drank too much tequila.
Max is standing over her, holding the witch's notebook and ring in his BLOODY HANDS.
DEAN
Uh, Sammy…
DEAN turns his head back to the exit as if looking around, casually.
This wasn't a Cheat Codes special…
He mumbles under his breath, then turns back to the couple with a calm smile. SAM pieces together something rather quickly in his mind, and his eyes widen.
MAX
Winchesters, hey.
What-what are you guys all doing here?
He laughs, sounding mostly unnerved.
SAM
I have this one, Dean.
He murmurs, hastily, under his breath. SAM grins, as if all is well, and there’s no underlying strangeness between everyone present. Without warning, CAS is engulfed as DEAN roars to life, his hand reaches for the gun in his jeans. CAS just barely manages to restrain him, working under the assumption that DEAN’S desire to shoot one of the two siblings may be what SAM had only just been referring to. MAX’S eyes follow the movement.
CAS
What--
Dean.
Calm down.
SAM glances to DEAN and then surveys the remainder of the lobby. It appears relatively empty, barring the lone employee at the front desk and a lady reading a science fiction novel on one of the large sofas by the front windows.
MAX
Haven't seen you guys since our mom died and--
His next words are spoken with some added force.
--Alicia almost got killed…
DEAN
That right, huh?
DEAN continues to fight CAS for control over his hands, trying desperately, in vain, to grab his gun.
CAS
Sam said--
Just, stop it.
You--
Stop trying to kill her, Dean!
CAS is weaker than he would like to admit, and although he can still easily take forceful control of DEAN'S body, it’s as if DEAN were shoving at him, over and over, which tends to get moderately annoying. Besides, the entire concept of fighting (if you could even call it that) DEAN for control, brings to mind the use of the word “monster”, just as JOHN WINCHESTER had referred to angels, not even a full twenty-four hours ago.
ALICIA
Wow, Max, what a downer.
Um, anyway… ignoring that awkwardness…
She dances forward and wraps her arms around SAM, who flinches slightly as he’s touched. MAX traipse over to them, watching with a sharpness to him.
It’s good to see you guys.
It's seriously been ages!
She releases SAM, and he looks between the two, his smile twitching up and down.
SAM
Uh, yeah--
He huffs.
--it's, uh, it's really good to see you too.
ALICIA turns to DEAN, and CAS pulls him forward. DEAN clenches his teeth together as he tries to regain control of his body.
ALICIA
Dean.
She smiles at him.
You’re looking good.
Her eyes imply she must have heard a rumour of his death. She throws her arms around him and gives him a tight squeeze. CAS pulls DEAN’S arms up to return the hug, and he pats her once, stiffly, on her back. He must have imitated DEAN'S mannerisms well enough, because she steps back and grins at him.
MAX
Lemmi guess, you're here for Mothman?
ALICIA looks between THE BROTHERS with an open mouth, and a hope-filled sparkle in her eyes.
ALICIA
Team-up?
DEAN fruitlessly continues to shove at CAS internally. He growls loudly in frustration, and all eyes turn to him at their lack of anticipation of such a noise.
SAM
Uh…
Yeah, we are.
A team-up sounds good to me.
He chuckles uncomfortably, and MAX smirks.
MAX
You okay there, Dean?
DEAN
I--
Fucking…
Guh!
Cas, give me back my hands!
ALICIA tries and fails to subtly share a look of concern with her brother, which MAX returns until she looks away. His smile falls, and his eyes gain a somewhat bothersome hardness.
MAX
Alicia, why don't you head over to the pool for a second, so the guys and I can organize the boring details of how we can make finding this giant… moth… thing a joint effort?
ALICIA scoffs and searches her brother in utter disbelief. MAX, however, simply winks at her and smiles warmly, until she rolls her eyes and wanders out into the lobby, toward the exit that faces the pool. The three men-- four if you count CAS-- watch her in silence as she leaves. As soon as she is out of their line of sight, DEAN kicks off and CASTIEL subsides, allowing DEAN ownership of himself once again.
DEAN
The hell'd you do?!
SAM
Dean…
DEAN spins to SAM and points at MAX.
DEAN
You kidding me, Sam?
You know how--
DEAN glances at his hand as it stretches through the air, pointing at MAX. He then flexes his fingers, as if wanting further verification that he is indeed back, “behind the wheel”. Once satisfied, he immediately reaches for the gun again. CAS stops him with a sigh.
CAS
Shall we at least hear Sam out first?
DEAN turns to where CAS’S avatar is standing, unamused, and blurts a laugh of incredulousness.
DEAN
Sam?!
He turns back to his brother.
SAM
That the ring?
SAM expertly ignores DEAN and points to MAX'S chest. MAX eyes SAM with uncertainty. He then reaches into his shirt and pulls out a borrower witch's magic ring from where it sits on his chain necklace. The ring pulses with a dark energy that unfurls itself and impacts with his aura. He frowns at the jewelry, then tucks it back into his shirt.
MAX
It's why I'm here.
It's been pulling me here for something, I have to see it out.
DEAN scoffs.
Now that you guys are here, though, I could use your help.
I gotta keep Alicia out of all this.
DEAN
Yeah, of course, demonic ring tells you to go somewhere, why not follow the breadcrumbs...?
He drones sarcastically.
So, what, you're sayin' Mothman's a demon?
MAX
I don't know, Dean.
I just know I have to make sure this ring isn't involved in some more evil crap that could be hurting people...
Speaking of, creepy powerful shit.
You're both sporting some new upgrades, too, I see?
MAX looks around SAM as he visually senses his aura, then turns to DEAN, and looks him up and down. He makes a show of looking CASTIEL in the eye, as if in an attempt to be intimidating.
DEAN
You're kidding yourself if you think that damn ring is an upgrade, man.
You--
How dumb can--
SAM
--Yeah, we are.
So, I take it Alicia doesn't know what she is?
MAX
She's my sister, Sam… that's all.
CAS tuts at this. The disregard for their intelligence is astounding and offensive.
DEAN
Oh, come on?!
SAM keeps his eyes trained on MAX.
SAM
Cas, can you shut him up, please?
DEAN’S eyes bulge in anger and surprise.
CAS
I won't…
But you should really try to trust that Sam has this handled, Dean.
DEAN sniffs and shakes his head with a clenched jaw.
At least, until things begin to escalate.
CAS is content to simply observe the interaction… for now.
SAM
I can't promise anything, but I have an in with the Queen of hell.
Might be able to track down the demon and get you free of that thing, if you want?
MAX scoffs.
MAX
Right, sure.
And Alicia?
She just--
He shrugs in anger.
--what?
SAM
Well, the Queen of Hell, Rowena.
She's been training me.
She's the one who turned me into this--
He holds his arms out.
Natural magic, not borrowed.
I'm still figuring it out…
Mainly, been learning defensive and healing stuff, but I'm thinking, we let her know that the original owner of that ring skipped out on her deal, she’s not gonna like that.
So, she does whatever she does with that information, then the three of us work on a spell to make sure Alicia stays topside.
MAX
You…
He swallows, and his eyes fill with vulnerability.
What's the catch?
SAM chuckles.
SAM
There isn't one.
But…
I do think you should tell her…
You know--
He looks at DEAN and smiles.
-- just from my own experience.
DEAN licks his lips and snickers with a shake of his head.
MAX
I--
Just…
How about you talk to the… Queen of hell…
He laughs in disbelief.
Then meet us at out on Robinson Creek Road at quarter past three.
That's where the ring's been pulling me, every. single. night.
He sighs.
Maybe we can talk then if you have anything more concrete.
He looks both SAM and DEAN over with a lip curl and fear in his eyes, then he pushes past them to go out to join his sister at the pool, his footsteps clacking on the marble. DEAN waits until MAX is outside with the door shut behind him
DEAN
What's your play here, Sam?
SAM
What?
What do you mean-- I just said--
DEAN
You have got to be shitting me…
Seriously, Sammy?
DEAN readjusts his footing and narrows his eyes.
SAM
Yes, seriously!
What, Dean?
You think we should just… kill ‘em both?
He laughs.
Send Max down to hell for doing exactly what we woulda done?
DEAN scoffs.
DEAN
That's not the point.
He did it--
He points to the door to the pool.
--Not us.
He grabbed some fucked up demon precious, and now he's gone all super vilan.
SAM rolls his eyes.
SAM
How?
What has he done that's even slightly wrong, huh?
DEAN
I don't know?
He could freakin’ be Mothman for all we know or-or she could be!
CAS
Neither of them looks much like the statue to me.
DEAN spares CAS a quick glance, but decides to ignore him.
DEAN
Even worse, you know who could be behind the whole damned thing!
Don't you think it's a coincidence they just happen to be here?
SAM
And the solution to that would be to put a bullet in ‘em?
That what you woulda done to Eileen?
DEAN scoffs.
DEAN
That-that's not---
SAM shakes his head.
SAM
--Why are we even here, Dean?
DEAN draws back.
You ran away from the bunker ‘cause you can't handle bein’ around all that happiness.
You have zero leads on anything that actually counts.
He exhales a disgruntled laugh.
You just want something to kill.
I bet if we never even saw the Banes, you would’ve come up with some reason to justify changin’ your “bird watching” to a hunting expedition, anyway!
DEAN shakes his head, his voice is low, but he holds onto his determination.
DEAN
You don't know what you're talking about.
He shrugs a shoulder, calmly.
SAM
Don't I?
‘Cause I bet I’m right.
I bet you haven't even stopped to think about why you're out here.
I bet you're terrified that if you spend even a second with anyone who's been brought back, you're gonna be even more wrecked if they get taken away again.
Am I right?
DEAN shakes his head, he smiles bitterly.
DEAN
Yeah, I'm not doin’ this.
I'll meet you at three fifteen out in Mothville, but if you--
He points at his brother for emphasis.
--haven't got a way to keep ‘em on the straight and narrow by then--
He grins.
-- I’m puttin’ ‘em both down.
He turns and walks away, back toward the hotel entrance.
CAS
Where-- Dean, where are you going?
DEAN
Need a drink.
SAM
You takin’ the car?
DEAN holds his thumbs up, above his head, then, with his gaze remaining at the front door, yells, causing both the man at the desk and the woman reading her book to look up in shock.
DEAN
Get a lift with The Shining twins!
Or just find yourself some overalls and a tricycle, you'll fit right in!
FADE OUT
INT. THE POINTY TAVERN - BEER O'CLOCK
DEAN finally finds a decent enough looking drinking establishment and almost literally runs into the building. The joint is a little more lively than he likes his bars, but it sure beats the other places he found in town. The clientele seems to be, what he'd assume, are some “alternative youths”, sporting a bunch of piercings and different hair colors. The type of kids SAM would've been friends with back in the day, the type DEAN would get along with, now that he'd somehow managed to dislodge the stick from his ass. He and CAS make their way to the counter and sit on a barstool each. There are two women behind the bar. One, a bit older, kinda rough around the edges, you can tell she's been tendin’ to drunk idiots for her whole damn life. The other, younger, maybe doing a, “travel round the country working wherever for as long as she needs” type thing. Real free spirit lookin’ girl. The older one comes and takes DEAN'S order while the hot hippy chick is busy smiling talkin’ to a group of the young kids.
(What's Up? by 4 Non Blondes plays)
TOUGH LADY BARTENDER
What can I get you?
DEAN
A beer and three fingers of whiskey, please.
TOUGH LADY BARTENDER
Sure thing.
She starts pouring out his drinks.
And will you be opening a tab?
DEAN
Yeah, why not.
When she's finished, she puts ‘em in front of DEAN and he shots the whiskey straight away, then pushes it back to THE BARTENDER.
Could I get another, thanks?
CAS
This seems unwise.
DEAN looks to CAS with a smile.
DEAN
Been a rough…
He thinks how to finish the end of that sentence. Few days? Years? Life?
-- Long road…
THE BARTENDER glances at him and smiles a little, then places the whiskey in front of him again, and he throws it back as soon as she turns her back to walk away. CAS sighs.
Look, I'm just balancing out all those extra hours sleep, right?
He mumbles.
CAS
Lack of sleep and alcoholism aren't interchangeable.
DEAN snorts.
DEAN
Okay.
He spins the chair so he's facing CAS.
This ain't gonna do you any harm, though, is it?
His eyes search CAS in earnest, and CAS rolls his eyes.
CAS
The drinking itself is… fine--
DEAN grins.
-- But don't overdo it, please.
We may need to be alert later, remember.
DEAN
Yeah, no, I know.
His smile widens.
I just-- it's been ages since we even went out, man, you know?
When was the last time we got a drink, huh?
Just the two of us?
CAS chuckles.
CAS
As in, outside of the bunker?
DEAN nods and starts on his glass of beer.
I--
It's been a while.
DEAN
Right?
A damn tragedy.
He takes another sip. He's starting to feel lighter already.
So, I got a question…
He scans the room to see if anyone’s watching him talk to CAS before he proceeds.
You-- uh, looking--
He waves a hand lazily at the projection of CAS.
-- like that, instead of like your angel form… that for a reason?
CAS scowls.
CAS
I-- I don't know.
His tone is defensive, and DEANS brows twitch upward in surprise. CAS sighs.
I think I just prefer it.
…does it matter?
DEAN
No, ‘course not.
Just checkin’ you weren't just--
He holds a finger up and takes another gulp of beer. Then clears his throat.
-- I don't know, doing it ‘cause you thought I’d be spooked or something.
CAS raises a brow.
CAS
Would it?
… Spook you, I mean?
DEAN
No.
C’mon.
He chuckles.
Not like I haven't seen it all before…
CAS nods, and DEAN watches him. He licks at his lip and taps his spare hand on the table.
Just--
He swallows.
It's, uh, it's kinda beautiful, ya know?
Or-- Well-- You are… I guess…
CAS stares at DEAN in shock. DEAN’S eyes widen, too.
Not in a--
I mean like--
DEAN clears his throat.
What I'm tryin’ to say--
He laughs. CAS’S brows shoot back down in confusion.
-- You, uh--
If you’re lookin’--
He flips his spare hand so it's palm up and wiggles his fingers by CAS’S squinty face.
-- ‘Cause you think I’d be, like…
He lets out a quiet, fake scream. Home Alone style-- open mouth, bug eyes, hand to cheek, then laughs.
-- I, uh… yeah, I won't.
Not that I don't think that this--
He draws a circle around CAS’S face.
--Isn't.
Because it is.
It’s-- yeah--
You know that-that, I think--
Anyway…
He grabs his beer and starts sculling it, and CAS smiles fondly yet uncertainly.
CAS
Thank you?
DEAN makes a face and puts the beer down, empty. He scoffs.
DEAN
Yeah, whatever.
No biggie...
Uh... anyway…
How did we even start talking about that?
DEAN chuckles and CAS opens his mouth to respond, but DEAN cuts him off.
Doesn't matter.
I’m gonna…
He spins in his chair and raises his hand a little to get one of THE BARTENDER'S attention.
THE HOT ONE barely notices DEAN as she crosses to him, tucking her long brown hair behind her ear, with a tinkling of many crystal bracelets on her wrist. When she turns to actually take his order, she stops momentarily, as if in shock. DEAN grins.
HOT HIPPY BARTENDER
Hi.
How are you going?
DEAN
Yeah, I’m real good, thanks.
You?
HOT HIPPY BARTENDER
I’m good, too.
Thank you for asking.
Um, what can I get for you this evening?
She laughs and tucks her long, flowy hair behind her ear again.
DEAN
I’d love another beer, thanks…?
He ends the sentence with a space for her.
HOT HIPPY BARTENDER
--Melody.
DEAN
Melody.
CAS
Nice name.
DEAN
Such a nice name.
DEAN steals CAS'S words in agreement with a nod.
MELODY
Um, thank you.
Yeah, I like it.
She grins at the bar, then looks back up at DEAN.
What's your name?
DEAN extends his hand.
DEAN
Dean.
MELODY
Nice to meet you, Dean.
She shakes his, then they claim their hands back. She blinks.
Um, I'll get you your beer.
She smiles, flushing a little, and gets to work with his drink. When she returns, she places them in front of DEAN on the counter. He smiles at her, and CAS clears his throat… Except it's DEAN'S throat, and it ain't exactly itchy.
(The Funeral by Band of Horses plays)
DEAN
So, Melody, this the usual crowd tonight or you catering to the Mothman crazies?
She raises her brows and scoffs a laugh. He places a hand to his heart.
Hey, I ain't judgin’!
I'm a Mothman crazy, myself.
MELODY
Really?
She pouts and raises a brow, doubting his words.
DEAN
Oh yeah, I'm into all that shit…
It's actually why I'm in town, trying to find the bastard.
What about you, you ever lay eyes on the thing?
She rolls her eyes, and he takes a sip of his new beer.
MELODY
Not me personally, but I know some people who have.
I like to think that there's more out there than we know…
But you, claiming to be part of this whole cryptid hunting crowd?
She nods over to the group of Gen Zs over at the bar that she was speaking to not ten minutes ago.
I think you're lying.
She points at him.
You don’t look like the type.
DEAN
What, no?
I’m a huge fan of all things Supernatural!
She shakes her head.
Promise.
She laughs and then holds out her pinky finger towards him.
MELODY
Swear it.
DEAN grins.
DEAN
I can do one better.
One sec.
He places his beer down, holds his index finger up, and turns on the barstool, so that he's facing away from her. He mumbles, smirking and looking at CAS in his peripheral vision.
Okay, when I go pinky to pinky with her, Cas, you get to gracin’, then tell me anything you can get from her-- I'm talking bruises, breaks, belly aches-- the whole nine.
He looks up at CAS now with a mischievous glint in his eye. Sporting a begrudging smile in return, CAS sighs.
CAS
Fine…
DEAN pumps his fist, nods and turns around again. MELODY stares at him suspiciously. He holds up his own pinky.
DEAN
I’m ‘bout to blow your mind, Melody.
He grins, and she places her pinky finger around his. DEAN feels the exact moment CAS’S grace leaves his body. It's kinda shocking, and DEAN regrets this whole thing almost immediately. He looks at CAS, with worry smack-dab all over his face, waiting anxiously for him to pull it back inside him. What if something goes wrong? Sure, there's still a little grace in him now, but it's basically so little that it doesn't even count. CAS could be graceless, with all their effort lost in some random chick's body. They'd have to make a two-day round trip just to get that huge needle from the bunker to stick her with and-- Oh. Good, it's back. CAS frowns.
CAS
Dean, I--
I don't know about this… she seems to have a lot of old injuries.
All from the same time.
DEAN still wants to play, so he decides to just tread lightly instead of giving up the fun altogether. He unhooks his finger from hers. He takes a long drag of his drink and places it down, dramatically.
DEAN
You ever been in an accident?
MELODY'S mouth falls open.
MELODY
Um… Yeah…
Why?
DEAN nods.
DEAN
Got a bunch of injuries from it, huh?
DEAN looks to CAS with a smirk.
Like…
DEAN closes his eyes and rubs at his temples. CAS rolls his eyes and rattles off in a monotone.
CAS
Torn shoulder ligaments, two broken ribs, a broken radius in three spots, as well as humerus and clavicle-- all on the right side.
She also suffered from a cervical fracture, which almost killed her.
DEAN opens his eyes and peers up to see MELODY staring down at him, waiting. He swallows.
DEAN
Oh, uh.
I didn't--
He chuckles awkwardly.
I shouldn't have--
He sighs and shrugs with a grin.
Didn't think it'd be that bad…
He glances at CAS and bares his teeth.
MELODY
I was--
I had a car accident when I first finished college, thought I wanted to be a teacher… figured life’s too short.
I--
She shakes her head.
How did you know that?
DEAN
Uh.
He huffs an uncomfortable chuckle.
Was s'posedta be a-a dumb game.
Shouldn't drink and--
He shakes his head.
Anyway… I've been in a bad accident before.
Know how much it messes with you… Something so normal, going bad like that.
He nods and avoids the kind look of sympathy from the guy beside him.
MELODY
I don't--
How did you know that, though?
Like… what did you just do?
I-- Please…
I-- I've felt that before…
I--
DEAN, with a smile plastered on his face, he holds one finger up again and spins around in his seat. Once facing away again, he downs the rest of his beer, breathes, then whispers loudly.
DEAN
Cas, uh--
His laugh is full of unease.
What-- what do I do, here, man?
MELODY leans over the bar to listen in to their one-sided conversation as best as she can over the loud music. CAS scoffs.
CAS
I don't know, Dean.
This was your great idea.
DEAN
How was I supposed to know she's felt angel grace before?!
His voice is blaring with alcohol.
How come you didn't pick up on that?
Isn't that kinda meant to be your territory?
CAS
Oh, so this is my fault?
DEAN
Well--
MELODY
Angel?
DEAN’S eyes bug. He looks to CAS, who shakes his head in an amused disbelief.
Did--
She places a hand on DEAN’S shoulder.
You said angel, didn't you.
DEAN slowly turns back toward her, on the stool. He laughs, places down his empty glass and spreads his arms.
DEAN
Look, I--
MELODY
I knew it.
I always knew that's what the voice was.
She's grinning madly, eyes far away.
I told people, and they were always like, “Angel?!”--
DEAN shushes her and looks around to see if anyone's listening. Guess not, but… fuck.
“You know that's just Third Man Syndrome”,
and I'm always like,
“Um, no. It literally told me it healed me as much as it could without looking suspicious and told me not to move until the ambulance arrived, or I'd die.”
She shakes her head, and DEAN raises his brows.
What?
You gonna tell me I'm crazy now?
DEAN
Uh, no.
Actually, it sounds to me like…
He looks to CAS, who nods solemnly.
Yeah, it sounds like an angel.
Just… they don't usually get so involved…
CAS
Actually… if this was 2014--
DEAN flops his head down dramatically, shaking it.
DEAN
If you say it was you, I swear…
CAS raises a brow.
(Never Tear Us Apart by INXS plays)
CAS
--My soldiers…
MELODY
--Sorry?
DEAN
Oh, yeah…
DEAN pulls his head up and looks at CAS with a smile as he loses himself in a memory of that time. Then he remembers that MELODY also spoke.
Uh, right, no.
He chuckles, and points at her.
Not you.
I was talking to--
He throws a thumb at the seat next to him.
Well, uh, to Cas-Castiel-- he's--
He grins at CAS.
Well… he's an angel.
MELODY
W-What…?
DEAN
Yeah…
CAS watches DEAN with narrowed eyes.
He-- uh, he's kinda bodiless-- long story-- point is, I'm sharing mine for a while.
MELODY gapes at him.
MELODY
So… the pinky swear--
That feeling…
DEAN
Angel grace.
DEAN peers at his beer, angling it against the bottom rim to double-check that there's not anything left to drink.
Yeah… woulda felt it, bein’ healed after your accident.
MELODY
That feeling-- It-Its--
She shakes her head, mouth agape.
DEAN
Yeah.
He chuckles and pumps his brows once at her.
I know.
MELODY
So, this angel in your body…
Like… they're just… here… now?
DEAN
Cas, yeah.
He takes in CAS’S puzzled, yet happy face and nods.
MELODY
What… does it feel like?
DEAN looks to CAS, who appears as interested in the answer as MELODY does.
DEAN
Uh…
How ‘bout we make a deal--
He lifts his empty glass.
You get me another one of these and promise to answer my questions about Aphid Hasselhoff, and I'll tell you whatever you wanna know about angels.
She rolls her eyes and wanders off to get him a fresh drink. DEAN looks at CAS.
You cool with this?
CAS
With… being slightly inebriated?
CAS squints with a head tilt, and DEAN grins.
DEAN
With twenty questions.
He waves a hand at THE HOT HIP-- MELODY.
Revealing trade secrets.
CAS
Honestly, I don't mind.
There are barely enough angels around anymore to really worry that they'd mind, either.
DEAN nods.
Besides, it's nice to remember that sometimes people can be in awe of me--
He frowns.
--or of angels in general.
DEAN
I--
Dude, you--
DEAN shakes his head.
We're all in awe all the damn time.
Sam and I are--
And you know if-if-- the kid were here…
CAS blinks slowly. There's a lot left unsaid, but at least CAS seems to be getting a kick outta this whole thing, too.
CAS
Thank you, Dean.
DEAN nods once, sharply, and MELODY brings over his beer. He takes a gulp.
MELODY
So, what's it feel like?
He sets down his drink and rubs the condensation off his hands onto his jeans.
DEAN
Well, each one is their own flavor of weird, but, uh, with Cas, it’s--
Well--
It's nice…
His voice rises at the end of his sentence. He clears his throat, CAS studies him.
Like, uh, a heavenly pillow when-- you know--
When he wants to be a pillow…
Then other times, kinda like learnin’ the hard way not to stick a fork in a toaster.
MELODY pops a hip and leans one ring-covered hand on the counter.
MELODY
And for the angel?
DEAN
For Cas?
Uh…
He looks to CAS, who is already squinting up at the roof in thought. He brings his gaze down in a troubled frown.
CAS
I'm not sure there are words.
If I had more time, I could maybe write a somewhat accurate depiction in the form of a-a crude novel or something.
DEAN raises a brow, then turns back to THE HOT-- MELODY.
DEAN
He says, he thinks, I'm awesome.
He grins.
CAS
To oversimplify it--
CAS rolls his eyes.
--Yes Dean, you're awesome.
DEAN beams sheepishly and takes another sip of his drink in an attempt to hide his smile. CAS stares at him with an affectionate smirk.
MELODY
It must be so crazy to share a body…
Can he feel what you feel?
DEAN
Yeah, but only because I let him--
He shrugs.
--and he lets me.
MELODY
That's…
She slowly slides her hand across the bar, and DEAN can see it's headed for his. He's been waiting for it. DEAN glances over to take in CAS'S confusion at DEAN'S curious and challenging expression. THE HOT BARTENDER’S hand gently slips onto DEAN’S. Warm, and given for both him and CAS to enjoy.
Wow.
DEAN grins, licks his lips, and looks over at CAS, who breathes deeply, and with brows low, a smile starts to creep up into his mouth. DEAN continues to stare at CAS as MELODY rubs her thumb against their hand.
DEAN
Sure is, Mel, it sure is.
BLACK OUT
END OF PART THREE
Chapter 16: "Mothman" part 4
Summary:
Don’t Go Into The Woods.
Notes:
THIS CHAPTER ONWARD IS UNDER CONSTRUCTION. YOU ARE WELCOME TO READ ON, BUT THE FONTS WILL NOT BE A PART OF THE STORY'S META ASPECT.
Chapter Text
PART FOUR
INT. FANCY HOTEL - NIGHT.
After spending about half an hour making small talk with the guy behind the desk in the hotel lobby, SAM figures he's probably built up enough of a rapport to broach asking some questions about MAX and ALICIA. More than anything, he just wants to cross his t’s etc, ‘cause it'd be pretty embarrassing if he was so ready to vouch for them, only to find out that DEAN was right, and they were bein’ played all along. Unfortunately, it’s not exactly an overly melodramatic fear for SAM to ruminate on either, ‘cause it's not like it'd be the first time he's been wrong when it comes to this kind of thing. His compass has often pointed the opposite direction, when everyone else he knew, told him not to trust someone. He just needed to quickly double-check so he could try to clear the voice in his head that would not shut up about it.
He’s always been pretty good at getting information from people who can't or won't give it up, so he was quickly able to find out that his instincts were initially right, and that neither MAX or ALICIA had been coming in at odd hours covered in blood, or lugging around dismembered body parts or anything. So, that was a nice relief.
Once satisfied, SAM shot MAX a text, a lie that told him that DEAN had taken the car to go play FBI for any other MOTHMAN related info. He ended the message by asking if he and JODY'S daughter could please get a ride, out with them, later.
He then chucked CLAIRE a message, filling her in on everything, and finally decided to make his way up to his room. Having zero access to the demon summoning shit in the boot of the Impala, he's left with the less reliable way to contact ROWENA, and has to make do with a simple phone call. Of course, she doesn't answer.
With no more ideas, he decides to shower then orders some room service. He just finishes off the best vegan chicken Caesar salad of his whole life when there's a second knock at the hotel door. He pads his way, over, barefoot, and is surprised to find CLAIRE, a beer in each hand and a smile on her face. She ducks around SAM, and enters his room without a word.
SAM
Uh… come in?
CLAIRE bobs her head around the room.
CLAIRE
He really did just take Cas and make a run for it, huh?
She plonks herself down on the end of his bed, placing the drinks in her lap. SAM snorts.
SAM
Guess so.
CLAIRE twists open the lid on one of the bottles and holds it out.
Oh, no, thanks, I'm good.
He shakes his head. CLAIRE shrugs and places the unopened beer on the carpet by the bed, then pulls her legs up and crosses them underneath her.
CLAIRE
So, you think we're ever gonna see ‘em again or…?
SAM smiles.
SAM
Dean and Cas, you mean?
He wanders over and leans himself against the table.
CLAIRE
Yeah.
I can see it now…
She flares her hand in a line in front of her.
In a decade, we finally find them running a cowboy themed bed and breakfast out in Florida.
Cas still rockin’ the Dean suit, but only under the condition Dean's willing to incorporate a trench coat into every single outfit.
SAM chuckles at the thought.
SAM
A-- a florist in Manhattan--
He smirks.
Cas's choice.
Dean wouldn't budge on the coat.
CLAIRE laughs and raises her beer in approval, then drinks a mouthful.
How are you, Claire?
I know things with your mom have been kind of rocky.
CLAIRE
Uh…
Yeah.
Kinda what I wanted to come talk to you about.
I guess Cheat Codes kind of… brought back my dad now too…
SAM’S brows shoot up in shock.
… Which makes everything about a billion times more complicated.
It kind of feels like we're all trying to make a puzzle of a lake, but the only pieces we have left are like… dominoes or something…
She frowns at her beer.
I don't really know...
SAM smiles at her, warmly.
SAM
Yeah, I get that…
He nods.
Have you spoken to them about it?
I know when our mom first came back, it felt like we all spent most of our time tryin' to avoid mentioning just how much, time can really change things.
She sighs.
CLAIRE
I have no idea what to even say…
I literally only just listened to the voicemail about my dad.
SAM
Well, what did your mom say when you talked to her last?
How'd she take it when you told her you were gonna come hunting with us?
CLAIRE'S eyes widen and she smiles uncomfortably. SAM sighs.
You did tell her where you were coming... Right?
CLAIRE
I may have left a note…
He scoffs.
What?
She practically did the exact same thing to me when she decided to run off and try find my dad.
SAM frowns at her.
SAM
I thought you’d forgiven her for that, Claire.
CLAIRE
I-- I don't know…
I did.
She starts to pick at the label on her drink.
It's not like we can just go back in time to before any of us knew that angels and monsters exist.
SAM huffs.
SAM
Well, maybe you don't have to?
Maybe they could learn to trust that you know what you're doing, when you're out there, saving lives.
Maybe they’d understand why you've decided to hunt?
She exhales in a puff of her lips.
CLAIRE
Ugh.
I know.
If you ever admit it to Dean, I'll deny it, but watching you guys stand up to your toxic masc, dick of a dad…
It kinda made me realize how stupid the shit is between my mom and me… and how I kind of just assume, it'll all be the same with him…
I just--
She stares down at her beer and rushes her next words.
What if they don't like who I am anymore…
SAM chuckles and shakes his head.
SAM
Claire…
They're your parents, it's like, in their DNA to love you.
I know my dad has a horrible way of showing it sometimes, but I think even he has it hardwired in him to care about us.
And besides, if for some reason, your mom and dad can't see what a kind, funny, kick ass adult you’ve grown into, that's their loss.
He shrugs.
You’ll always have people who do see you for who you are, and they-- we-- wanna have you in our lives.
So, no matter what, you’ll always have a tonne of family, who care a whole lot about the real you.
She snorts.
CLAIRE
What, you mean like Jody?
I don't wanna sound like a spoiled brat, but…
It's like, the moment her real family came back, she forgot all about us.
SAM nods slowly with a smile creeping its way up onto his face.
SAM
Trust me, Claire.
Jody just needs some time to figure out where everyone fits, now.
… but I think I get it...
You feel like she’s rejected you, and you think that if Jody, someone who has actually accepted the complicated, hunter, side of you--
CLAIRE
--Okay, okay.
Fine.
Maybe you're right.
She rolls her eyes.
Doesn't mean anything’s actually changed, though, Sam.
Mom's still crying about shit as stupid as the amount of fucking eyeliner I wear, and Jody’s barely answered any of my texts since she left the bunker.
SAM
Well, I get that but--
ROWENA
Sorry to interrupt, but you wanted to talk, Sam?
SAM swings around and raises his hands, fingers spread, and CLAIRE pulls out her gun from her belt and points it toward the window, both aiming where ROWENA, just appeared.
You're going to shield me to death, are you, Samuel?
ROWENA grins at him as he lowers his arms back to his sides. CLAIRE follows his lead, holstering her gun. ROWENA doesn't even spare CLAIRE a glance and instead turns her attention to her nails.
That’s better.
Now, what did you call me for, boys, I am busy running a kingdom, you know, I can't just pop in every time--
She cuts herself short after finally glancing around the room, noticing a missing DEAN.
SAM
You took a while getting here this time, Rowena…
Everything alright?
ROWENA scoffs.
ROWENA
Sorry, if it took me a moment to sense you were wanting to talk to me!
It's not exactly like we have cell service in hell, you know.
She rubs at her temples.
What's the problem now, don't tell me you've somehow managed to lose your brother… again...
SAM
Uh, no.
Not this time.
He chuckles.
This is about a friend of mine, Max.
ROWENA turns her gaze to CLAIRE.
CLAIRE
Not me.
CLAIRE smirks, both brows and hands raised. ROWENA squints at SAM.
SAM
Claire, Rowena.
Rowena, Claire.
SAM speeds through the introduction.
ROWENA
Uh, yes.
Jimmy Novak’s wee child, correct?
CLAIRE
How do you know--
ROWENA
--I'm the reigning queen of hell, sweetheart.
It's my job to know these things.
ROWENA fluffs her hair. SAM leans himself back against the table.
SAM
Uh, right, anyway…
Max got himself into some trouble, a while back.
He was manipulated into picking up a ring from a borrower witch just so she’d get out of her deal.
ROWENA is suddenly very alert.
ROWENA
A ring?
How long ago was this?
SAM
Uh--
He looks at CLAIRE in confusion, checking to see if she too finds this an odd choice, out of all the possible follow-up questions.
Not sure.
Just over a decade, maybe?
He pulls his brows together, suspiciously.
Why?
ROWENA
And you're sure it was created by a demon?
What did the ring look like, Sam?
Did you have a chance to physically see it?
SAM draws back in confusion.
SAM
Uh, yeah… it's definitely a borrower witch’s ring.
It-- it's this big teardrop shaped thing that, uh… glows purple.
ROWENA slumps a bit, then clears her throat. All sunshine and fire again.
ROWENA
That could be any number of demon's creations, I'm afraid.
Do you expect me to go door to door?
She pops a hand on her hip.
SAM
Well, uh, the ring brings people back to life, if that helps?
ROWENA perks up again.
This witch would take someone's heart and put it in a human shaped bundle of sticks so she could control ‘em whenever she wan’ed.
And... she slumps again.
ROWENA
That… sounds familiar, actually.
She clears her throat.
An Old English spell?
Perhaps Baltic.
At least you've started to narrow it down.
She sighs.
I'll try see what I can do.
If word got out about somebody skipping out on a demon deal, well, let's just say this borrower witch already has hell to pay… I wouldn't want to imagine the additional punishments they’re going to have...
SAM smiles as he mentally ticks that off his long list of shit gnawing at him.
SAM
Thanks, Rowena.
Next problem. Probably should have led with this one…
Uh, just one other thing.
Max, uh, his sister, um… died.
And well, he kind of… used the ring on her to bring her back…
She-- she's not gonna, er, die if you help out on this, right?
ROWENA laughs.
ROWENA
I suppose I'd like to imagine that you would leave that decision up to the sister.
She blinks up at him.
If she chooses to destroy the ring, the magic connection will be broken, and she will, indeed, die.
Luckily, you have your strange new powerful friend who could always bring her back--
Everyone turns toward THE CAMERA.
--That is, granted I'm right, and the magic in question hasn't gotten rid of her soul.
There is always the third option…
She drags her gaze back to SAM.
… Say you were to store the ring somewhere nobody can accidentally happen across it-- perhaps in that bunker of yours--
Well, I wouldn't want to assume I am the only woman who's ever dreamt of the safety that lies in immortality.
SAM pulls one side of his mouth tight.
SAM
She doe’n't even know that she died…
He grimaces.
I guess, I'll just have to let you know what she chooses.
ROWENA sighs.
ROWENA
Very well.
Let me know if you need me, Samuel.
And, let the boys know that Castiel's vessel will be ready and waiting for them when they return to the bunker.
SAM nods, impressed.
CLAIRE
… Uh, hey, um, excuse me, Ms. Queen of hell, lady?
CLAIRE raises a hand.
ROWENA
Yes, dear?
CLAIRE
Just wanted to thank you for, you know, helping bring Cas back properly...
ROWENA smiles and addresses SAM.
ROWENA
Perhaps, I was too hasty, gifting all of my magic to you, Samuel.
I should have held out a little while longer until meeting young Claire, here.
She turns back to CLAIRE.
Such a lovely young woman, with such fine manners.
SAM grins.
SAM
Thank you, Rowena.
He rolls his eyes.
So… um, that mean’s Crowley’s back, huh?
ROWENA
Fergus, has indeed been returned to his old vessel, yes.
SAM
That why you took so long to answer the phone?
He laughs but ROWENA just pouts.
ROWENA
If you must know, Sam, no.
No, it's not.
Fergus is off sulking somewhere, ignoring my calls, and there are rumors of plans of a coup within hell.
So, I'm ever so sorry if I haven't managed to be at your beck and call, as you have been for me, as of late.
She drones, sarcastically.
Oh wait, that's right, ya haven't been, have you?!
SAM inhales sharply, then swallows.
SAM
Sorry…
I--
He shakes his head. CLAIRE picks her spare beer up off the floor and holds it out to ROWENA, then taps the bed beside her.
CLAIRE
If it'll make you feel any better, you can always blow off some steam by joining our pointless hunt for Mothman?
ROWENA shakes her head at the beer, then continues to shake it in disbelief as CLAIRE'S words sink in. ROWENA decides to take a seat beside CLAIRE on the end of SAM’S bed.
ROWENA
… You idiots are attempting to waste your time doing… what?
FADE OUT
INT. ??? - ???
DEAN wakes to his phone buzzing. He feels like slow-cooked shit. Headache to rival a decapitated vamp's, and nausea that makes him almost burst into tears at the thought of his own bedroom. He flops his hand around in the general area of the bedside table-thing, until he finally manages to find his phone. He presses the green button and places it on his cheek, throwing his arm back down by his side.
DEAN
Mmmm?
SAM
Finally!
DEAN scrunches his face as he pulls his phone away from his ear, and barely manages the strength to hold it beside his head.
I've been trying to reach you for an hour!
Where the hell are you, man?
DEAN
Mmmm.
Smmwhur.
He glances around in the light of his phone.
Bartendrrrm.
He smiles, and the girl beside him sighs in her sleep, moving her legs closer to his under the blanket.
SAM
What, Dean, I can’t understand you?
Just-- please tell me you're almost here, and you have Alicia with you?
Suddenly, everything comes back to him. He pulls himself up in the bed and his stomach rolls. CAS. He looks around manically. Fuck. He jumps to his feet, grabs his clothes and half hops, half runs as he makes his way to the door. He can hear SAM saying some shit over the phone but waits until he's out into the hallway before he yell-whispers frantically at SAM on the other end of the line, trying not to puke.
DEAN
I-- I'm alone, Sam.
But, don't worry, I'm on the way.
He hangs up, stuffs his phone into his pocket, marches through THE HOT BARTENDER’S house until he's back out the front of her rental. He immediately vomits. Foamy and burning as it comes up. When he finishes choking on it, he clears his throat.
C-- Cas?
He whisper-yells into the air. Nothing…
I swear, Cas, if you're--
He swallows, trying not to hurl again.
Show yourself, man!
CAS runs his grace through DEAN'S body, causing him to exhale in a huge puff of relief. He slumps his head down and shakes it from side to side. He wants to scream. He wants to rip the trash bin beside him, off of its hinges, and throw it through his car window. He breathes.
Dude, don't--
DEAN chuckles.
--You better not get all weird on me now, buddy.
He rubs a hand over his stubble, searches around him, giving CAS a chance to appear. When he still doesn't show, DEAN wanders over to BABY, unlocks her and climbs into the driver's seat. Once he pulls her shrieking door closed, he's safe to speak loudly again.
Look, Cas, I get you've never had a threesome before, pal, but seriously--
He licks his lips and tries to forget about the feeling of-- well... REIGN IT IN!
-- Not such a big deal that you gotta go underground, at least...
He can't help but let the desperation seep out into his voice, as he tries one last time.
Cas...?
Still M.I.A. He slaps on a grin and shakes his head again. He glances over his shoulder and scans the back seat as subtly as he can while he checks the blind spots out the rear window. He then pulls BABY out of the car park, with his jaw locked. Back seat, completely empty.
FADE OUT
EXT. SOME WOODS? - 4:00AM
ALICIA comes too, tied to a tree in the middle of a thick, heavily wooded area. The ground is made of a deep rug of dead pine needles, and the whole forest is ringing with silence. ALICIA tries to pull her arms free enough to start working on whatever it is that has her bound there. Magic. With a shock to her stomach, she realizes her arms are bent at an almost impossible inversion of both her elbows and wrists… as if she were hugging the tree behind her with her arms inside out. The painless contortion of her body makes her want to scream. The fear of the pain to come being almost as palpable as the horror of her inhuman looking limbs. She struggles more madly to free herself from the magical binds, grunting and moaning as she desperately tries to break herself free. She tries fruitlessly not to cry at the mere sound of her bones cracking and crunching as she pulls at the rest of her body in any and all attempts to wriggle herself free. Another identical sounding crack rings out through the sound dampened area, this time, to ALICIA'S left, where a child emerges from behind a tree. The girl, dressed in white, smirks as she stomps, bare foot, onto a broken twig.
GIRL
Oh, good, you're awake.
Another girl rounds the corner. She's about two or three decades older, dressed in all black, and ALICIA truly believes is probably one of the most beautiful women to ever walk the planet.
WOMAN
Great.
She pulls a phone out of her pocket and shakes it in front of ALICIA'S face.
Now you get to play the damsel.
She cringes at the thought.
Sorry.
She unlocks the phone with ALICIA'S face ID to begins to scroll through her contacts.
Matthew, Mark, Mary… Max.
She grins, clicks the video call button and watches as ALICIA struggles against the tree once more, however this time, in a futile attempt to get away from her phone.
MAX
(Through the phone)
Oh, God, Alicia?
ALICIA
Max--
MAX
(Through the phone)
Are you--
Where are you?
ALICIA
Listen to me--
Max, don’t do what they say, okay?
Promise me--
The WOMAN turns the phone around, so she can smile at MAX on the other end.
WOMAN
Uhh... enough of that…
She pouts at herself in the corner of the video.
You're gonna wanna hurry up and get to Redmond Ridge road by the cemetery with Dean Winchester, little Maxie--
MAX tilts his head to the side as if trying not to look at somebody off the screen.
--and you'd better make it quick or baby sis’ becomes collateral damage.
She smiles again.
Oh, and don't stress about the time it takes to type in the address into your car's GSP.
That little ring of yours?
Well, let's just say, the two of us are… old friends.
It knows where to find me.
She blows a kiss to the camera and then hangs up. ALICIA growls as she wrestles against the magic gluing her in place. The WOMAN places a hand on ALICIA'S shoulder.
Honey, relax…
Her voice is kind and ALICIA stills herself somehow, against her will. She stares up at the WOMAN with rage, frustration and confusion.
GIRL
That phone call was a bit dramatic, don't you think?
Even for you…
The WOMAN rolls her eyes, winks at ALICIA, then turns to the little girl.
WOMAN
Damn, coming from you?
She sucks on her teeth as she looks the kid up and down.
Nice skin suit, where'd you find her, the eighteen hundreds?
The young girl looks down at her body.
GIRL
It's the nightgown, isn't it?
She sighs.
I knew it was a bit much, but it felt even weirder to get changed, ya know?
WOMAN
What kind of messed up seven-year-old sleeps in a nightgown?
GIRL
--Right?
ALICIA
--Oh my god, will you two shut the hell up, already?
The two turn their heads to look at ALICIA in shock, and then both burst into laughter. When they finally quiet down, the woman tilts her head, surveying ALICIA, who stares back with all the fight she can muster thrown into her glare. The WOMAN grins.
WOMAN
I don't know… I kinda like her.
She addresses to the young one who just rolls her eyes.
GIRL
Of course, you do, she's one of yours.
WOMAN
So?
There’s been plenty, I haven't liked.
She twirls her hair and pops her hip.
I think I just have a thing for the freaks…
She giggles.
GIRL
That's cute, you really think you're joking, don't you?
The WOMAN fakes a bitter laugh.
Bitch.
FADE OUT
EXT. THE CEMETERY - 4.15AM
SAM sprints over to the IMPALA. DEAN kills the engine and climbs out, the metal door screams amongst the cicadas.
DEAN
Any more news?
He jogs, his footfalls sliding a little on the dew covered grass. He gets to the boot and pulls it open.
SAM
Not since the phone call, but Max thinks they're about a mile west of here.
He props up the lid of their secret stash as DEAN starts selecting weapons. Demon knife, angel blades, holy water… so on…
DEAN
I told you something was off about all this, Sam.
SAM
Not--
He shakes his head and doesn't bother to continue to argue. He pushes the shotgun back down and shuts the boot. Later.
Whatever, man, let's just get Alicia back.
SAM and DEAN jog past gravestones, over to where MAX has already given up waiting for them, and with a purple glow, has slashed through a section of the cemetery's fence. CLAIRE waits a few paces back for SAM and DEAN to catch up and hand her a weapon-- her Grigori sword-- before the three climb across the cemetery's boundary and into the immediately thick, muffled woods. They walk for a while in silence and SAM tries to quiet his mind. He has so many questions, and his mind's buzzing with the unrelenting fear that something's not right. He lasts a good half hour before he can't help but hiss at his brother as they both round the same side of a huge pine tree.
Where were you earlier, Dean?
DEAN glances back at his brother, then checks behind him, noticing SAM'S too distracted to keep watch over the group's back, as they all continue to follow the magical pulsing of MAX’S ring.
DEAN
Now really the best time to be havin’ a leisurely catch-up?
They walk heel first, dodging any fallen debris. SAM reluctantly jerks a nod in agreement. DEAN'S eyes bulge in exasperation.
Good.
MAX stops abruptly and raises up a hand. The others become still behind him. He turns to them, holds up two fingers then points to his eye twice, then gestures into the distance ahead. Two demons. SAM moves his finger between himself and MAX then points to the right, CLAIRE nods, jerks her thumb at DEAN, then to the left. Everyone nods in agreement and heads off their separate ways.
FADE OUT
EXT. CREEPY ASS WOODS - ??? AM
Luckily the sun is making its way back round this side of the globe, while it isn't there quite yet, there's enough to keep the dark forest a little less pitch black. Therefore, it's not long before DEAN spots ALICIA, and dodges behind a tree, pushing CLAIRE behind another, then nods toward where the two DEMONS stand. He didn't get a good view of ‘em, but he figures that he and CLAIRE are closest to ALICIA and that then means that they're on rescue duty, and are, unfortunately, not on the starting line for doling out any ass kicking. Probably for the best considering he's still hungover as hell and starting to hallucinate, some of the trees are CAS, from the corner of his eye. Disappointed every time. Far too distracted to fight off even a freakin' cough with some syrup at this point.
He side-steps back out further, using the trees to gain more coverage so he can come at ALICIA from behind while blocking himself from view. Luckily, CLAIRE is smart enough to follow his lead and they both end up slowly making their way around the back of the scene.
WOMAN
Ugh, how long is this going to take?
The WOMAN stamps her foot. The young GIRL scowls up at the her.
GIRL
Yeah, don't even get me started…
I know I said you were dramatic, but you should have seen the last time I had to do this shit.
She shakes her head, watching her long hair sway as she moves, almost entranced.
It took days to see the whole thing through.
Left with all of it with zero dignity, and what's worse, I managed to die again only a few months later.
She rolls her eyes. DEAN peers at CLAIRE. A bubble of endorphins feels like it's slowly rising up inside of him, he knows who he's up against purely from those words alone. He has to remind himself to take this all one step at a time. He thinks he knows who he's up against. Not a certainty. If it is, they’re gonna need all hands on deck. He finally manages to weave behind the huge tree ALICIA is somehow stuck to. The WOMAN pulls her jacket tighter around her.
WOMAN
Ugh, I just wanna get this over with so I can make myself scarce.
ALICIA jumps as she feels DEAN’S hand against hers, and while the two demons are distracted, she attempts to peer around the thick tree to see the source of the contact. The GIRL laughs.
GIRL
You think there's anywhere to go?
We're both screwed.
DEAN tries to lift ALICIA’S hand away from the tree. THE YOUNG GIRL kicks some pine needles and lifts her foot to inspect the ones that managed to lodge themselves into the first few layers of flesh. CLAIRE taps DEAN'S shoulder then points down at ALICIA’S arm, his eyes go wide, and he flinches at the sight of it and pulls his hand away. Trying to settle his stomach.
Unless you're team Winchester, you're a pawn.
Always have been, there's just fewer middle men nowadays.
The WOMAN shakes her head. DEAN peers out from behind the huge tree at the mention of his name and tries desperately to see SAM and MAX dodging around trees in the dark from the other end of the forest. Wondering how they are all managing to go completely unnoticed by these DEMONS.
WOMAN
Great.
So what, we either play along, or try appealing to the boys' better nature, grovel and beg for them not to kill us?
DEAN scrunches his face as he listens to them talk.
GIRL
Yeah, right.
You really don't see it, do you?
God, you're thick.
CLAIRE punches DEAN lightly on his arm and juts her chin at his angel blade and waves her sword in his face with a shrug. DEAN nods slowly.
You think Alicia here is the bait?
We are, dumbass.
He grabs CLAIRE by the shoulder as she turns to make a go for it, and holds up a finger.
The moment those machismo fucks get here, and the real show starts, we’re on borrowed time.
CLAIRE’S eyebrows shoot up and DEAN squints out into the dark forest
WOMAN
He-- why would--
GIRL
Oh, Ruby, you poor thing, you really did walk straight back into this whole mess with a goddamn smile and zero déjà vu, huh?
Ruby. That'd mean the kid is Lilith… Cas? You gettin’ this, man? Nothing… Fine. DEAN shrugs a shoulder with a grin, holds up his hand to tell CLAIRE to stay put, stows the blade in his belt and rounds the tree, stomping carelessly, with his hands up.
DEAN
You rang?
CAS appears beside the DEMONS, with a stiff jaw and eyes that could burn out an infinite number of universes with their wrath. DEAN pumps his brows at the angel, licks his lips and grins.
Chapter 17: "Mothman" part 5
Summary:
American Nightmare.
Chapter Text
EXT. THE WOODS… - MORNING-ISH
Both RUBY and LILITH spin around at the sound of DEAN’S voice. They are, at first, shocked to see that he isn't alone. The reality of the situation, however, is something they both manage to process a bit too quickly, for DEAN'S liking, as their surprise escalates to a dangerous level of anger. LILITH grits her newly growing front teeth and throws her arms up in irritation.
RUBY
Castiel?
You… you were in The Empty…
She turns to LILITH.
How?
DEAN
Could ask you the same question… Ruby, right?
I'm willing to bet that makes you, Lilith.
Yeah--
He nods and has to swallow a little bile that came up.
--actually, now that I’m up this close, all those memories I tried to repress of your fuck ugly mugs under there--
He waves a hand to where they stand in their vessels.
-- are hitting me all at once…
He grimaces at CAS, who has turned his icy glare toward the demons.
God, Cas, how can you stand seeing their faces?
I think I'd’ve gouged my eyes out by now.
LILITH ignores him, sighs, and turns back to RUBY.
LILITH
Whatever.
So, they have a neutered attack dog?
She pinches the bridge of her tiny, child-sized nose. CAS frowns.
Doesn't change anything.
RUBY shakes her head, then addresses DEAN and CASTIEL.
RUBY
Where are the other two?
She tries a threatening voice. DEAN laughs.
DEAN
Oh, Max and Sammy?
Yeah, you're not gonna have your little get-together.
See, we all knew this was a trap, so they're sittin’ nice and cozy on the bench.
I mean-- hell, we even heard the two of you say just as much while waitin’ around back there--
He throws a thumb over his shoulder. LILITH grits her teeth.
-- wondering if you’d shut the hell up for long enough to notice if Cas smote your asses then and there…
He yawns in authenticity, secretly reveling in the theatrics as he leans into his exhaustion, and lets his tiredness enter his tone as he continues.
… but I figured I may as well see this through, check out whatever this whole thing--
He lazily shimmies his hands.
--is that you got set up… just for me…
He grins, bows, then sweeps his hand royally.
You may proceed…
RUBY sighs at LILITH.
RUBY
Great, what are we supposed to do now?
LILITH
We make do with what we have.
Obviously… we can't use your little friend, Dean--
She addresses DEAN but speaks loud enough with enough gusto to show her words are intended for ALICIA.
--We need someone human….
DEAN watches with pity as ALICIA frowns at him with wide-eyed confusion, then abruptly her face becomes vacant as it begins to shake and twitch. Reacting as if she's some kind of AI robot, programmed to self-destruct if it ever found out it was an AI robot.
DEAN
Hey, hey, hey, Alicia!
He starts tapping on her face.
Alicia!
He growls at LILITH.
What did you do?!
LILITH shrugs innocently.
LILITH
Don't look at me.
It’s her magic.
She points at RUBY who swallows her look of empathy toward ALICIA, as soon as she notices eyes on her, however, she sets her jaw. ALICIA comes too with tears in her eyes and a constant fearful trembling. LILITH gleefully wanders over to them.
ALICIA
WH--
ALICIA moans in terror.
What the hell am I?!
RUBY
Really?
Why did you have to go and do that?
She joins the others and places a hand on ALICIA, again.
It’s all fine, you're just exhausted, and you’re going to fall asleep now, okay?
ALICIA tries to scream, but it gurgles in her throat. She slumps her head down and begins snoring lightly.
CAS forces DEAN to raise his blade, his projection puffed up and ready for a fight. LILITH smiles sweetly, and before DEAN or CAS have a chance to react, she curiously lunges forward and swipes a small knife across the back of DEAN'S hand. DEAN hisses at the sting of it, he’s a little confused by her actions… but drives his arm forward and manages to slice her arm with the angel blade as she pulls her knife back. RUBY watches on with detached interest as LILITH cackles and throws her hand at him carelessly.
DEAN’S fucking embarrassed at his piss poor graze he dished out, when LILITH easily sweeps him off his feet in a backward whirl, hurtling in a tumble toward a tree. As he spins, he can see the massive pine getting closer and closer. It’s humiliating. Almost as if he's watching his inevitable epic fail in slow motion. DEAN feels himself fall into CAS'S pillowy world inside him and his body goes limp. CAS yells something from where he stands, unable to do much more to help. DEAN can't quite make out what CAS even says, but he figures it's probably along the lines of, “Well done, DEAN, you damn idiot”, or “GEORGE of the jungle, watch out for the tree!” There's a loud thump that radiates from somewhere inside DEAN'S body, as his head crashes into the tree in full force, his body crumpling after. From the second-hand view of his life in CAS’S cozy softness, DEAN’S whole vision goes white, and then he…
BLACKS THE FUCK OUT
EXT. THE WOOD ON THE OUTSKIRTS OF POINT PLEASANT - 4:52 AM
SAM makes to run toward his brother from the cover of the forest, but MAX'S arm shoots out to stop him, accompanied by a sympathetic look. He sets his jaw and considers taking his fist to meet MAX'S nose, but in the time it takes to think about this option, he’s able to remind himself that he's clearly in the middle of yet another one of CHUCK’S melodramatic ass peaks in his lame fuckin’ story. He purses his lips and reluctantly nods at MAX, and the two of them continue their agreement to wait for the best time to strike. LILITH has since turned from whatever she was doing to DEAN earlier, (that SAM couldn't quite see) right before DEAN went barreling head first into a huge spruce tree, and she's now handing somethin’ over to RUBY who looks at it with uncertainty. LILITH then strolls back over toward DEAN, and calls out to the sky, causing SAM an inconceivable amount of regret for not knocking MAX out when he had the chance, to go check on his brother.
LILITH
You can come now!
We have it!
Without pause, through the forest, a horrible screeching sound, echoes out of the otherwise dampened silence. Both SAM and MAX rush to cover their ears instinctively as the impossible decibel grows louder and closer. The trees shake as if a huge gust of wind has somehow reached just the very middle of the woods, specifically where they gather, and every single one of the hairs on SAM'S body stand on edge.
Everything stops.
The forest is silent and still once more, but SAM can sense it now. This isn't over. It's just begun.
From the treeline opposite him, emerges a figure. The thing moves the dull morning light around it as if it were a black hole and its very presence is so vile, that even light itself, flees from it in terror. The figure pulls giant wings behind it that appear to pass through the fabric of this reality, slicing through the trees, untouched by the natural world that surrounds them. Then there are the eyes. Heinous eyes, glowing red, mesmerizing, bewitching, and somehow formless in the void of the being's body. Those unblinking, terrible eyes seem to be full of cruel elation… and those eyes are staring directly at SAM.
MOTHMAN. How could he have been too distracted to see what is so damn fuckin’ obvious now? He should have seen this coming. He should have known. Not only that, but he is the soul person responsible for all of this, now. Anyone who they lose-- and they will lose someone, they always do-- any person that dies from here on out, is his fault.
He stares right back at the dark, horrible void of a face, that makes his skin crawl, and his stomach turn; he stares right back at the true, yet small and weakened form of LUCIFER.
BLACKOUT
OUTSIDE? ??? ???????
DEAN comes too with CAS standing over him, shouting words he can't yet hear… or maybe he can… they're just not making any sense yet-- just a lot of noise. He tries to push CAS outta the way to tell him to, “chill the damn hell out”, and that he'll, “get up properly in a minute”, but his hand falls straight through the angel. He looks at his hand where it flies past CAS'S face and turns it over in front of him. Huh, magic hand? Oh shit, ghost hand? Am I… dead… again? He tries to pull himself up, but he only manages to pull his head up and put his hands flat on the ground, when his stomach rolls. He pukes all over himself in a pathetic trickle from his mouth… Now he feels the headache. It throbs in time with his pulse like the world's worst rave, making him squeeze his eyes shut to try to focus on stopping the pain. He wipes away any remaining vomit from his mouth and grabs his head in both hands to hold himself still.
CAS
Please, Dean, say you can hear me!!!
DEAN opens his eyes, lowers a hand from his head, and places a finger to his lips.
DEAN
Lower voice…
Loud hurts…
He manages to mumble. His breathing’s kinda raspy, shallow; worrying. CAS slumps his head down in relief, when he looks back up his eyes are glassy. He does as asked and lowers his voice to a whisper.
CAS
I’m so sorry, Dean.
I’m-- I’m too weak.
… I can't heal you.
DEAN grunts softly and closes his eyes again. He allows himself to rest his head against the thing behind him, immediately wincing. Shitty spikey pillow. He jolts back upright, so only his neck is resting against whatever he's up against. He feels a rattling radiating from somewhere inside him at the movement. CAS goes to grab DEAN, his hands hovering over him before he lowers them, defeated.
You-- You can't move, okay?
Promise me, you won't try to fight me to move.
CAS vibrates with anxiety, causing DEAN to hum in agreement. Anything he can do to stop CAS from looking like he's about to shit his angelic little boxes is good with him. CAS nods and looks up to where a young girl stands over them.
LILITH
Wakes, wakey, it's showtime, Deano.
DEAN tries to keep his head still as he peers up at the ugliest demonic face he's ever seen. Oh, right. Lilith… This whole mess… Great…
Welcome to the party, Dean.
She grins and steps aside, revealing SAM, MAX, CLAIRE, and ALICIA, all magically pinned to a tree each in a nice neat row. In front of them stands… MOTHMAN(!?) and RUBY, her ugly as fuck demon face, out in full-frontal.
DEAN
Sorry, must have dozed off for a minute there.
Did I miss anything?
He croaks and grins up at LILITH from where he lays. He knows he must look pretty pathetic right now. He knows the whole scene looks pretty damn hopeless, but he also knows he's got one more card left to play…
LILITH
Your choices for the day.
She sweeps her arm out, displaying his friends and family all struggling pointlessly against their trees like crucified little butterflies, pinned alive to specimen display boards.
One-- Well, It's a boring option, honestly, you're not gonna want to choose it--
One is… we kill you and your friends here, including the poor debilitated angel you're carrying around like a purse puppy.
She rolls her eyes.
I know, like I said, boring, right?
Played out?
It's taking everything in DEAN not to go punch her fugly smug grin off her fugly ass gross ass face, let alone just… not sit himself up.
Well, option two is much better.
SAM
DEAN, DON’T--
RUBY swipes her hand and SAM’S voice is cut off.
LILITH
Obviously, I’d recommend you choose option two, and honestly, it only takes a tiny bit of work on your behalf…
She walks over to MOTHMAN.
All you have to do is say yes.
DEAN squints at CAS in confusion.
DEAN
To… Mothman?
CASTIEL looks devastated and exhausted and on the verge of either screaming or bursting into tears. Instead, he simply grits his teeth and bites out.
CAS
They have your blood, Dean…
They want you to say yes to Lucifer.
BLACK OUT
EXT. THE WOODS - 5:07 AM
So, SAM had massively fucked up when the first thing he did when he saw LUCIFER, was to make a run for DEAN, so what? Not like it would have made too much of a difference what he did, really. They were pretty much doomed the minute he showed up. He’s just pissed that MAX didn’t get that SAM was being an idiot, and came running after him, and he guessed that made CLAIRE assume they had some kind of plan of attack, and she popped up out of nowhere, and, well… they were all fucked pretty quickly after that.
MAX had managed to get off a solo blast of energy at LILITH, but that just seemed to annoy her more than anything. SAM blocked RUBY’S magic, but then was caught off guard by how weak she was. Maybe that was her plan, ‘cause that’s what got him. He was distracted by it and stared at her wondering if she’d sent out a piss ass spell because somewhere deep down inside her she… dumb idea … or if-- a far more likely choice, he decided-- ROWENA'S magic was actually way more powerful than he’d even really had the chance to get a sense of, until now.
LILITH took advantage of his dumb, amateur, freeze, tossed him aside like a rag doll, then shoved him up against some tree before he had even processed what was happening. Now, SAM struggles silently against the spruce tree, trying to glare some sense into DEAN through force of will alone and not the first time, he wished he still had his psychic abilities, wondering if perhaps he would be able to send images to his brother by now, the way that ANDY could all those years ago. Naturally, SAM’S then overcome with guilt and shame at the mere thought, ‘cause those gifts were never his, merely a by-product of the poison he was drugged with as a child. The pure evil that led them all to this very moment, his brother, being forced by pawns of GOD to choose between saving his loved ones and experiencing the depth of torture, pain, pleasure, and self-hatred that only SAM could ever truly relate to, or killing them all, letting CHUCK win… once again… dooming their son, and allowing the whole circus to start up again as soon as CHUCK gets bored in another few years.
DEAN
Yeah, I mean… those options…
DEAN chuckles and it turns into a spluttering cough. From his head downward is covered in blood and puke, he’s pale as shit, and looking like he's moments away from passing the hell out… or worse.
I mean, obviously, I'm gonna have to go with number three…
He slurs. RUBY looks at SAM with a slight… fear? Pleading? Hopefulness? He's not sure, but she holds his gaze for what seems like way too long, considering the emotion in the look she’s shooting at him, and that LUCIFER is literally right beside her… Even now, LUCIFER pulls at SAM, begging for him to dive right back into the inviting, dark pit of nothingness that is his being. LILITH sighs.
LILITH
Sure, Dean, what's option three?
She humors him, with a tone like an exhausted kindergarten teacher.
DEAN
You all die.
DEAN winks at something to SAM’S right… and SAM turns, following his brother's gaze. He grins and just about bursts into tears with relief, kicking himself as he finds THE CAMERA.
BLACK OUT
EXT. IS IT GETTING A LITTLE TOO COLD OUT HERE, OR IS IT JUST ME? - I’M SO FUCKING TIRED.
DEAN can't really do anything but watch like a fuckin' cuck as everyone springs to life. It's frustrating as hell, and he figures CAS can sense the desperate need to fight in his bones, ‘cause the dude's shuffled forward, and is pretty much blocking DEAN from seeing any of the action… CAS’S stupid, fake-ass body. DEAN does manage to get in a small peep as all four of ‘em that were up on the trees, fall down to the ground, and instantly get going-- doing, what, he's not sure, all he knows is that he hated having to ask CHEAT CODES or-- or FRIEND… or whoever… for more help.
Getting people back on the board, sure, if they're dishing out free lives anyway, may as well cash in. JACK falls into that category too, whenever they find a way to put him in it. If THE ENIGMA’S feeling like dishing out actual dishes; food and beverages, well, they are small fries… sometimes literally, so, why the hell not…
Day-to-day shit? That's their literal job. It’s the only thing DEAN'S good at, ‘cause it's the only thing he's ever known.
And sure, it's not exactly a typical case. MOTHMAN turned out to be the actual literal DEVIL. And he was book-ended by some freshly resurrected evil, at a supposedly vanquished, GOD’S hand, but still… Things above DEAN'S pay grade happen all the time, and he still deals with them, himself.
Throwing the ball to the other court just feels lazy, and irresponsible, and like he's opening a door to a zillion possible things that could go wrong, while he… just… lays there watching… and only actually seeing half of what's happening too, by the way, because of CASTIEL'S thick back’s blockin’ out the whole damn thing. Probably a good thing, CAS is preoccupied though, ‘cause DEAN'S just started to realize that the vomit taste in his mouth has gone, ‘cause it's been replaced with the familiar taste of metal, now he's started having to swallow pools of blood.
DEAN
Cas, scoot.
Can't see if we're winning.
He rasps feebly. CAS pulls his lips into a line of uncertainty but glides himself over in DEAN'S view, allowing him to see a tiny bit more of the chaos that's unfurling. SAM and MAX hold LILITH and RUBY in place with a purple glow which for some reason makes LILITH howl, doubled over, like it's the fuckin’ funniest thing she's ever seen. RUBY just gives up and sits down cross-legged inside the circle, and CLAIRE points her sword at RUBY'S neck as the two guys work on making their magical ring shrink smaller and smaller, so CLAIRE can get at them without entering it.
ADAM and MICHAEL have decided to drop by, and DEAN curses at himself for not thinking of that earlier. He has to bite his tongue when he thinks of calling out to them, askin’ if he could maybe please get some health points racked up. THEY seem a little preoccupied, trying to fight off LUCIFER'S true form… or ghostly MOTHMAN imitation… or whatever the hell, he's got going on. It's not exactly going great. MICHAEL has an archangel blade, which is a plus, but he seems to be going for the one spot on the dude's vacuum of a body, over and over, and LUCIFER sees it coming every time. He just dodges and weaves, with what looks like zero effort at all, and-- DEAN squints as he finally manages to see what MICHAEL’S been aiming at. There's a glowing light, no bigger than a grain of rice, right in the center of the thing's belly. DEAN blinks a few times, wondering if he's just seeing stars and is about to pass the hell out again, but nope-- well yes, maybe that too-- but the glowing rice is definitely the part of himself, that LUCIFER is trying to protect.
Just beyond that-- Well, DEAN figures he's maybe hallucinating a little bit now ‘cause his grown-ass baby brother is pulling one hell of an imitation of himself from a couple of decades ago. From DEAN'S least favorite ever SAMMY period; The “Demon Blood” Era. He holds his hand out in front of him like he’s damn, Eleven, from Stranger Things and--
MICHAEL lunges once again, blocking off DEAN'S view. LUCIFER grabs at MICHAEL’S arm and the little grain of rice ripples through him. LUCIFER wrenches ADAMS arm up at an unnatural shape, snapping the bone, and pushing THEM BOTH to the ground.
Then, CAS appears. He blocks DEAN's view again, this time sure to take up the whole scene, as if to shield him from anguish over, no doubt, yet another loss of another family member…
Unfortunately for them both, CAS moves just a tiny second too late, and DEAN innately tries to jump up to join the fight… that’s when feels it-- or more like, he doesn't feel it-- and "it", being, anything past his waist.
DEAN blinks. Overwhelmed by the fear that he's maybe actually in a lot worse shape than he initially thought…
DEAN
Uh… Cas?
He mutters. CAS turns to him with a grim look that tells him he already knows. He's known the whole damn time.
CAS
I’m-- I--
DEAN shakes his head, cutting him off and raising a hand.
DEAN
Can you get me up?
Like, will I die if you make me stand, ‘Cause--
He chuckles.
--not so sure I can do it myself, but, uh, we gotta get in there, man…
CAS looks as if he's gonna crym and DEAN tries desperately not to think of the damn basement again. He swallows.
Hey, I go out swinging, you'll still survive, right?
His voice is low, but he tries to keep it positive. DEAN finds himself wishing CAS was really here. A crazy thought, considering he's never been closer to the guy. Hell, they just came together, at the same time, into the same person, using the same body, not even four hours ago, and yet DEAN still somehow misses him.
CAS
I-- I won't--
He shakes his head and DEAN’S stomach turns.
DEAN
--You'll die?
CAS
I won't walk you into battle, Dean.
I won't be the cause of your death.
DEAN shrugs. He's honestly so tired. He'd only been holding on this long because he thought he'd be okay, he thought there was an out. Now that he knows the full extent of things, however… Which, by the way, of course, CAS tried to hide it from him… Idiot. Should have been the first thing he did; move, when CAS told him explicitly not to. He breathes a shallow raspy breath.
DEAN
You go out there, you kick some ass.
I die?
Then you go get our new bestie to bring me back.
No biggie.
He tries to plaster on a trademark grin, and some blood drips out of his mouth through his teeth ‘cause he didn't manage to swallow it in time. CAS looks mortified… Then… He loses every single bit of his shit. DEAN’S pretty sure CAS swears in enochian, just from context clues of the word's use over the years. His fake-ass body stands up, morphs into his shiny true form, and his voice booms as he sings.
CAS
ENOUGH.
He glares down the lens of THE CAMERA. DEAN smiles up at him in a daze, blood still spilling from his mouth as his eyes start to droop.
Do something!
Heal him!
WAIT--
A FEW MOMENTS EARLIER.
SAM watches in horror as ADAM yelps on the ground, while LUCIFER takes pleasure in torturing the angel inside him. SAM hopes to-- he just hopes-- that MICHAEL'S the one feeling the brunt of it all. He tries to stay focused on the job at hand and keep chanting, but it's becoming increasingly difficult-- ‘cause not only is LUCIFER now stabbing ADAM’S limbs over and over again, as if he has all the time in the world to kill his brother-- but he can also see DEAN, still crumpled at the foot of the tree, now bleeding from his mouth as he puts on his whole, over-the-top-obviously-fake-smile-and-shrug routine, as he talks to CAS, who SAM has to guess is still too weak to heal him.
The circle is small enough now that the two DEMONS have backed up side by side, and as SAM gets distracted, their combined magic flickers, but holds. CLAIRE freaks out and jumps backward at the sight of it, but SAM looks at MAX and starts to pull his hands away, he lowers his voice, hesitantly, eyeing him, as if asking for permission. MAX nods, knowingly, and SAM lowers his hands. He steps forward and speaks quickly.
SAM
I heard everything you guys said earlier.
He looks between RUBY and LILITH.
You get one shot-- one-- to get off script… if you want it.
RUBY looks confused and LILITH scoffs.
We can heal you… both of you…
Make you human, again.
He frowns.
Choose now--
He holds his arm outstretched in front of him.
--Or die.
RUBY
Sam…
She looks genuinely touched at being given the option, and it makes SAM wanna just hurry up, skip the pleasantries and kill her. Too many times, she must have made him believe that face was a genuine reaction to something he's done. He huffs a laugh, his mouth twitches as clenches his jaw.
SAM
LIVE OR DIE!?
He yells.
LILITH
You have got to be joking…
She giggles, manically.
Why the hell would we fall for this shit?
If you haven't noticed, Sam, we don't stay dead, long.
So your little “either, or” plan is--
RUBY
Heal me!
She blurts out. SAM nods at her jerkily and turns to LILITH, who’s gaping at RUBY.
LILITH
You're kidding, me, right?
We're about to win!
Her voice is hysterical, and she throws her hand toward where LUCIFER is slicing ADAM and MICHAEL apart.
SAM
Live… or die?
He asks, deciding it's the last time he will give the option. LILITH smiles at him and rolls her eyes back, further and further, until her sockets fill up with only her supreme, demonic whiteness. She roars in anger as she pounces, toward where CLAIRE stands just beyond the boundary of the circle, stretching the magic outward like an elastic band. SAM'S instincts kick in, and he feels himself flair to life.
It's not the same as it used to be, it doesn't come from hatred, nor an arrogant feeling of powerful calm inside him. It's like he feels the entirety of the surrounding forest, in every single one of his cells. Nature moves inside of him, reaching out its helping hand to restore balance and harmony to the world. He is a part of something large and beautiful and clean, and he is so grateful to be of use to it. He watches as the smoke that was once LILITH, spews forth in a trumpet of sound, from the poor child that she had claimed as her vessel. LILITH'S essence burns into the forest floor. SAM feels as her energy begins its journey back into the earth, breaking apart to be recycled into something new. The young girl vessel falls to the ground and thankfully, passes out.
SAM turns to MAX and CLAIRE.
SAM
Do not let your guard down.
He glares at RUBY, then he swings around to try help the others. He only manages to walk two paces before he's met by THE CAMERA.
Clip from 16.01 “Fuck”.
SAM
--Actually, if it's all the same, I’d really rather skip over the psychic assault.
DEAN raises a brow.
From 2.22 “All Hell Breaks Loose”, Dean's expression is pleading. Heartbreaking.
DEAN
Don't get mad at me.
Don't you do that.
I had to.
I had to look out for you.
That's my job.
From 16.02 “Getting the Band Back Together”, DEAN sheds his jacket and makes to apply it to ADAM'S wound, but he shrugs out of the older man's grasp and holds the note paper at eye level, all the while blood runs down his arm like a river.
ADAM
[...]
Michael, I consent to holding you, forever.
SAM glances around and wonders how much time has passed. He watches LUCIFER raise the archangel blade to stab it into their brother's, once again... but curiously, the blade goes flying back out of LUCIFER’S grasp, and lands softly on the pine carpet, at SAM’S feet. He picks it up absentmindedly, his brain in a fog, still trying to work his way through a cloud of information. SAM looks to the archangels, trying to understand how the LUCIFER managed to lose the blade in the first place, and finds that THE DEVIL has now turned his powerful gaze toward SAM, once more. LUCIFER screams a deafening note that is somehow both terrifying and beautiful, like a chorus full of millions of voices. Then, most handsomely, begins to fly toward SAM as if without moving an inch, simply pulling the world around him, zeroing in on his involuntarily willing victim. SAM gasps as the pieces of the puzzle fall gently into place.
SAM
Yes, Michael, I consent!
He has such a fleeting chance to fill up with terror at his potential mistake before he feels THE ARCHANGEL’S enormity find him and settle in, joining SAM and gripping his hand around the blade as a united front. LUCIFER finally reaches them not a moment too late. SAM aims the blade, without even meaning to, directly at LUCIFER’S center, and watches as the light cracks out of the middle of his being, like an already broken mirror, shattered infinitely more until it returns to its former state; back into sand. What's left of THE DEVIL booms loudly, as it blasts apart, scattering into molecules in the surrounding air. MICHAEL promptly departs, and SAM drops the blade out in front of him, he continues to hold out his hand and with his eyes now closed, he feels for the dying essence of LUCIFER, and feeds it back to return to its home in the earth, where it can finally begin anew. SAM watches while ADAM slowly stands, all of his worst wounds begin to heal in the glow of MICHAEL’S grace. He bleeds freely, seemingly unconcerned with the smaller wounds as he strides over to DEAN, who now lies, eyes closed, still slumped against the tree. SAM runs to join them in time to witness as ADAM-- or rather MICHAEL-- rests his hand upon DEAN’S head.
Is-- is he…?
SAM can't bring himself to ask. Not again… Never again. MICHAEL frowns in concentration.
MICHAEL
He’ll live.
A laugh bursts from SAM’S mouth as he slumps over his brother, in relief.
It may be a few hours before I am able to fully heal him, though.
If it weren't for Castiel, well…
He looks down at DEAN, smiles, and nods knowingly as if CAS has just tacked some joke to the end of MICHAEL’S sentence. SAM almost bursts into tears at the idea of it… probably something bitchy as hell, or something lame that DEAN would love.
I noticed you left one alive…
MICHAEL doesn't make eye contact with SAM, in fact, he's actively avoiding it.
SAM
Um, yeah, we-- uh-- I gave them both the option to die or-- or-- we have a way to turn her human.
SAM swallows. He feels dirty, he feels judged. He tries desperately to rack the mist in his brain for the way he managed to make the deeply wrong, and intrinsically evil call on this one, somehow.
Figured ‘cause it’s worked before, may as well try it.
He sighs, glancing over at RUBY. When he turns back, MICHAEL is smiling at him, and THE ARCHANGEL places a hand upon SAM'S back. He flinches at the touch, and it's uncomfortable and seems robotic, but SAM manages to pull his lips into what he hopes looks like something like a smile in return.
MICHAEL
I may be wrong about this-- I seem to be consistently horrible at making these types of decisions-- but I think that, objectively, allowing space for reform, is honorable.
He nods once and picks up DEAN’S unconscious body like it's nothing. Simply a sleeping child, being carried in, from the car. MICHAEL turns toward THE CAMERA.
Shall we conclude here and shepherd the remaining lives back to their appropriate locations?
CLAIRE raises her hand.
CLAIRE
I vote yes!
SAM exhales a laugh and shakes his head at her, then nods, once, at THE CAMERA.
NOW... WE CAN BLACK OUT
END OF PART FIVE
Chapter 18: "Bottle Episode" part 1
Summary:
The Vessel.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
SUPERNATURAL
“BOTTLE EPISODE"
TEASER
THEN
Clip from 12.06, Celebrating The Life of Asa Fox
SAM
Did you know people tell stories about us?
DEAN
Yeah. Apparently, we're a little bit legendary.
(Genie in a Bottle by Christina Aguilera plays)
♪♪♪
Voiceover from 4.22 Lucifer Rising
CHUCK
You guys aren't supposed to be there. You're not in this story.
CASTIEL
Yeah, well… We're making it up as we go.
Clip from 1.01 pilot. DEAN runs downstairs with SAM, watching the fire spread throughout his family home.
♪ (Come on, come on, uh, yeah) Oh-ooh, whoa-oh (Come on, come on, uh) ♪
Clip from 2.21 All Hell Breaks Loose: Part One running towards SAM as SAM is stabbed in the back, DEAN pulls his hand off SAM’S back and the shot changes---
Voiceover from 14.20 Moriah.
CHUCK
This isn't how the story is supposed to end.
CAS
The story?
---SAM’S bloody hand lifting away from DEANS back from 15.20 Carry On.
♪ I feel like I've been locked up tight, For a century of lonely nights, Waiting for someone to release me ♪
Voiceover from 14.20 Moriah continued.
DEAN
--Wait. What are you saying?
SAM
He's saying he's been playing us. This whole time. Our entire lives. Mom, Dad -- everything. This is all you because you wrote it all, right? Because -- Because what? Because we're your favorite show? Because we're part of your story? And every other bad thing we've been killing, been dying over -- (scoffs) where were you? Just sitting back and watching us suffer so we can do this over and over and over again -- fighting, losing people we love? When does it end?
DEAN
No, we're done talking. 'Cause this -- this isn't just a story. It's our lives!
♪ You're lickin' your lips and blowin' kisses my way, But that don't mean I'm gonna give it away, Baby, baby, baby (Baby, baby, baby) ♪
Then OVERHEAD LIGHTS EXPLODE! Raining SPARKS over DEAN, BOBBY, the whole room. They shield themselves. Then they see-- AT THE FAR END OF THE ROOM. The ENTRANCE. SWINGS OPEN by itself. Slow. Revealing-- a MAN. CASTIEL. He heads in, walking through a curtain of FALLING SPARKS. It's a hell of an entrance.
From 5.16 Dark Side of the Moon, The TV behind DEAN flares to life, showing a grainy black and white image of CASTIEL.
From 5.22 Swan Song, CHUCK sits behind a computer keyboard. A full glass and near empty bottle of cheap whiskey beside him.
From THE WINCHESTERS 01.13 Hey, That's No Way to Say Goodbye JACK--- wearing a white linen suit… then CHUCK--- from 15.19 Inherit the Earth also wearing a white linen suit
Clip from 16.01 Fuck. DEAN stands frozen against SAM’S wall, staring at the CAMERA, as he waits… JACK walks past SAM and places a hand on the door handle. JACK opens the door and--- SAM and DEAN find themselves back in the bunker. They BOTH slowly draw their gaze toward THE CAMERA.
♪ Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh (My body's sayin', "Let's go"), Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh (But my heart is sayin', "No, no") ♪
Voiceover from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together.
ROWENA
What's this?!
Dean Winchester, finally back in the land of the living?
And not only that, but carrying along the angel Castiel, who, also, up until now, was known to be deceased?
Clip from 16.03 Mothman. DEAN grins, licks his lips, and looks over at CAS who breathes deeply, and with brows low, a smile starts to creep up into his mouth. DEAN continues to stare at CAS as MELODY rubs her thumb against their hand.
♪ If you wanna be with me, Baby, there's a price to pay, I'm a genie in a bottle (In a bottle, baby), You gotta rub me the right way (Yeah)♪
Clip from 16.03 Mothman.
ROWENA
[...]
Let the boys know that Castiel's vessel will be ready and waiting for them when they return to the bunker.
♪ If you wanna be with me, I can make your wish come true You gotta make a big impression, (Oh yeah), Gotta like what you do ♪
Voiceover from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together.
JOHN
(Through the phone)
Let me have at least a second alone with your mother before you up and steal her away from me.
Voiceover from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together.
MARY
I was actually thinking it'd be kind of nice to head back down toward you guys.
Clip from 16.03 Mothman. JOHN slams a fist onto the table, and SAM and DEAN both jump at the outburst. MARY clears her throat and looks around at the other tables. Miraculously, only a few people are staring. JOHN clears his throat and takes a beat to breathe with his eyes closed.
Clip from 16.03 Mothman. JOHN looks at DEAN like he’s something stuck to the bottom of his tactical boot but DEAN just shrugs and smiles at CAS. SAM waves jerkily at the table, then leads a cackling CLAIRE toward the exit gently by her arm. DEAN nods at his mom, who looks truly distressed, and he forces himself to turn away. CAS joins him silently as he weaves his way around the other tables and out of the exit.
♪ I'm a genie in a bottle, baby, You gotta rub me the right way, honey, I'm a genie in a bottle, baby, Come, come, come on and let me out ♪
Voiceover from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together.
JODY
So we gotta figure out a way for them to write us some kinda help?
Voiceover from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together.
DEAN
No more sacrificing ourselves because there’s no other option.
No more two-dollar mystery deals.
Voiceover from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together.
BOBBY
Fine.
If you’re right--
Give me my wife back, then.
[...]
Any other damn sonnofabitch, Chuck decided to kill off for character development.
Clip from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together . Around the table sits CHARLIE in an animated conversation, introducing her parents to DONNA and ALEX.
JO and KAIA speak with CLAIRE and her mom, AMELIA, while PAMELA pours them all a glass of scotch each.
JODY'S son, OWEN, and husband, SEAN, sit listening to ASH and ELLEN explain to both, her husband BILL and KAREN SINGER, all about their new resurgence.
EILEEN talks to not only her own parents, but also to JESSICA MOORE, who sips shakily on a glass of water.
KEVIN and LINDA TRAN sporadically interject each other's sentences with further information while filling in MAGGIE, JULES and the other Apocalypse hunters, including BOBBY and CHARLIE 2.0, who holds a hand beside her eye, blocking off the other CHARLIE in her peripheral.
Both KETCH and MICK stand together restlessly, appearing as if they're each hoping to be the first to escape their conversation with, HENRY WINCHESTER, FRANK DEVERAUX and VICTOR HENDRIKSEN.
KELLY KLINE makes small talk with PATIENCE and MISSOURI and GWEN, CHRISTIAN and SAMUEL CAMPBELL sit together in silence, watching the room.
♪The music's bangin' and the lights down low, Just one more dance and then we're good to go, Waiting for someone who needs me ♪
Clip from 16.03 Mothman. LILITH easily sweeps DEAN off his feet in a backward whirl, hurtling in a tumble toward a tree.
Clip from 16.03 Mothman. CAS slumps his head down in relief, when he looks back up his eyes are glassy. He does as asked and lowers his voice to a whisper.
CAS
I’m so sorry, Dean.
I’m-- I’m too weak.
… I can't heal you.
Clip from 16.03 Mothman. DEAN, still crumpled at the foot of the tree, now bleeding from his mouth as he puts on his whole, over-the-top-obviously-fake-smile-and-shrug routine.
SAM
I heard everything you guys said earlier.
He looks between RUBY and LILITH.
You get one shot-- one-- to get off script… if you want it.
[...]
RUBY
Heal me!
♪Hormones racin' at the speed of light, But that don't mean it's gotta be tonight (Yeah) Baby, baby, baby (Baby, baby, baby) ♪
Clip from 16.03 Mothman. LILITH smiles at SAM, and rolls her eyes back, until her sockets fill up with only demonic whiteness. She roars in anger as she pounces toward where CLAIRE stands just beyond the boundary of a magical circle, stretching the magic outward like an elastic band.
Clip from 16.03 Mothman. The smoke that was once LILITH, spews forth in a trumpet of sound, from the poor child that she had claimed as her vessel. LILITH'S essence burns into the forest floor.
Clip from 16.03 Mothman. LUCIFER raises the archangel blade to stab it into ADAM and MICHEAL, but the blade goes flying back out of LUCIFER’S grasp, and lands softly on the pine carpet, at SAM’S feet. He picks it up.
SAM
Yes, Michael, I consent!
SAM aims the blade, without even meaning to, directly at LUCIFER’S center, and watches as the light cracks out of the middle of his being, like an already broken mirror, shattered infinitely more until it returns to its former state; back into sand. What's left of THE DEVIL booms loudly, as it blasts apart, scattering into molecules in the surrounding air.
END OF TEASER
NOW
ACT ONE
INT. ??? - ???
DEAN woke knowing something was wrong. The air was thin and with each struggling breath, his tired lungs wheezed audibly. Fear. It had been a while now since he’d felt fear like this. He could taste the feeling on his tongue. It coursed through every single cell in his body, screaming at him that something was deeply, deeply wrong. The darkness surrounded him, engulfed him, and in that darkness, he was finally able to find clarity. I’ve been buried alive… again. He placed his hand above him to the lid of the coffin, expecting to feel wood or fabric, and instead his fingers pressed against the cold metal. What the hell did SAM bury me in? DEAN started to wonder with panic, his breathing increased becoming somehow even more shallow despite the fact he was noticeably filling his entire lungs, his chest rose and fell with great effort and his heartbeat drummed loudly in his ears. He smacked his fist against the metal, then began hitting it over and over again, trying desperately, albeit in vain, to make even the smallest of dents, knowing that the only alternative would be to run out of air. The metal thumps, muffled, pathetically against the six feet of soil between him and the real world. The skin on his knuckles split, stinging.
DEAN
Cas!
He called hoarsely into the nothingness.
Cas, help!
His hands scratched at the box, clawing across the sides, his nails bending back and bleeding as the skin peeled away. Eventually, his eyes began to adjust to the metal casket around him. The sigils seemed to stare back at him with mirrored horror. The Malak box. SAM had buried him in the Malak box. DEAN tried to swallow the bile that had risen in his throat. Why would SAM do that? Did he hallucinate the entirety of yesterday's last events? Had he, in actuality, said yes to LUCIFER and this was his first peep through the haze of THE DEVIL’S control over him? But then where was CAS? If he’d died, SAM would have got him back out of THE EMPTY with the help of CHEAT CODES, right? He had said as much. So either way, CAS and SAM would be safe now. That made sense. Sure. That's what this is. SAM buried his body in the Malak box. His breathing started to slow, despite knowing deep down that nothing had really changed for him personally, he was still very likely to die again if someone didn’t get to him very soon. He knocked against the metal three times quickly, three times slowly, then three quickly again; Morse code, SOS.
Yo, Cas.
You guys gotta speed things up a bit here.
I know you guys thought this would be a good idea, but surely we can get good old Friendly to help out with The Devil issue once you get me outta here.
He breathed. The sound of what he assumed could only be shovels, seemed to grow closer. The sic of the metal head into the dirt, the shuffling sound, the slide, then the toss of the dirt landing somewhere else, vibrating suppressed through the ground. Eventually Metal met metal, he heard the shovels being thrown aside, hands brushing hurriedly against the top of the box, and then finally, with a groan of rusted hinges, DEAN was met by the blinding light of the morning sun. A hand seized his shoulder and ripped him to his feet. He blinked at the form in front of him, his eyes still trying to adjust to the brightness.
Gotta say, it was a bit touch-and-go for a minute there.
He admitted, coughing into his elbow.
???
Was it now?
A sickening jolt ran through DEAN’S spine, exploding like lightning in his stomach. He blinked rapidly in the direction of the voice, trying desperately to clear his vision. He found himself standing alone in a treeless, empty field, that seemed to stretch on as far as he could see. He was completely and utterly alone, barring the single person standing in front of him. A smirk on his face, arms crossed against his chest, looking the same as ever, with the exception of the addition of horrific milky white irises, stood JOHN WINCHESTER.
DEAN
Dad-- Er, Sir.
I-- What have you done?
???
Dad?
I suppose you could still call me that, Dean. I mean I was like a father to you in a way, wasn't I?
Taught you the in’s and out’s of the world, of our world…
DEAN swallowed, unable to do much more than stand there, frozen, listening in pure dread and utter confusion.
And he is in here too, by the way, good ol’ Johnny Boy.
He’s telling me all sorts of fun little family secrets.
Seems that not only did you take up an appetite to the way I taught you to carve up the riff-raff, but you clearly got one hell of a kick outta me popping your rosebud.
He sighed, his smile just a touch wider than JOHN’S, his eyes disgustingly empty.
DEAN
Alistair.
DEAN barely managed in more than a whisper..
You fuckin’ bastard!
Let him go.
ALISTAIR laughed gleefully.
ALISTAIR
Let him go?
Hmm… I could do that…
Is that truly what you want, though?
You know the way he feels about you, yes?
The way that he, even now, is screaming inside me.
ALISTAIR tapped JOHN’S finger to his temple before continuing.
He's begging for me to leave you alone, you know.
Not because he’s worried about you.
No, simply so he would no longer have to look at you.
The disgust he has for you…
He sounded almost impressed.
Well... it's a special kind of hatred.
Would you really want him walking around in the world, spewing his hate to anyone that will listen?
My brand of torture is more brazen than that, but if you prefer his subtlety… I'll offer you a deal.
Your dear father--
He bowed overdramatically.
--or her.
ALISTAIR presented his hand with a twist of his body, gesturing behind him to the six-pointed star where a small blonde girl had been splayed out, nailed by her hands and feet to four of the star's points. Her head wore a crown of barbed wire, tieing her to the topmost point. Her mouth had been sewn together, crudely, with thick black, blood-soaked cotton.
DEAN
Em--Emma?!
DEAN rushed towards her without a second thought. ALISTAIR appeared at his side, JOHN’S hot breath on his neck.
ALISTAIR
So, what will it be kiddo?
Option A: Commit patricide against the man who despises you to your very core.
Or option B: Filicide against the child who already tried, and failed, to commit patricide against you?
ALISTAIR rubbed JOHN’S hands together eagerly.
The poetic justice of it all!
He grinned, again, far too widely. DEAN swallowed hard as EMMA’S eyes widened up at him in horror.
DEAN
I-- No…
DEAN murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.
ALISTAIR
Come on, Deano! Times a-wastin', the train’s a-comin'!
DEAN flinched as JOHN’S voice yelled at him.
Choose now, or I’ll do it for you, boy!
DEAN’S eyes remained glued to EMMA’S; The daughter he never got to know. The baby who grew up far too quickly, and the relationship that was doomed before it came into being. ALISTAIR forced something into DEAN’S hand, he ripped his eyes away from his daughters and stared in dread as his hand wrapped itself around the hilt of the familiar weapon and rose on its own accord. DEAN tried to gain control of his movement, his arm shook under the strain, attempting to hold himself back, but the FIRST BLADE continued forward until it finally hit home. He plunged the bone straight through the center of EMMA’S chest. She choked on a scream as blood gushed from her mouth. JOHN’S hand slapped hard against DEAN’S back.
That’s my boy.
DEAN turned to his father in horror, but somehow standing in JOHN’S place now stood CHUCK, grinning up at him far, far too widely.
CHUCK
I always knew you’d make the right choice.
DEAN turned back to EMMA in complete terror, pulling the blade out as if he could undo his mistake. He gazed up at her face, but instead of finding EMMA’S brown eyes, he met the burnt, empty sockets where JACK’S eyes had once been, staring blankly back at him.
JACK
Why, Dean?
JACK asked, his brow furrowing in innocent confusion.
Did I do something bad?
INT. ??? - ???
(Genie in a Bottle by Christina Aguilera continues diegetically through the walls)
DEAN wakes in a startle when his leg slips over the side of the narrow cot. He jumps and pulls himself up into a seated position, breathing heavily and squinting around at the room in confusion, attempting to piece together how he’s ended up in the bunker sick bay once again. As if sensing DEAN’S now slowly dissolving nightmare, MIRACLE emerges from the corner of the room and leaps onto the bed. DEAN places a hand on his own chest, the other patting the length of MIRACLE, soothingly, while DEAN’S his face falls at the bombardment of memories.
DEAN
Cas?
He frowns at the lack of response. It's different this time. Not like CAS’S just ducked under a rock in his head like a blushing nun after their drunken fun. He's really gone. It’s usually hard to tell what time it is in the bunker, but with the new fake skylights that WE installed, DEAN concludes that it's at least gotta be some time within the window of night. Stars are shining down, mockingly, while he attempts to swallow the absent feeling of any celestial body inside of him. His hand falls from his chest. He’s alone. Totally empty. He tries to calm the panic rising inside of him from both the lingering after effect of his dream, and CAS’S absence, and not jump to any conclusions.
DEAN tries to swallow again, however, his throat is too dry now that his breathing’s picked up. He licks his dry-ass lips, and is at least pleased to find some water on the bedside table. He downs the whole metal liter bottle in one go, then maneuvers his dog and throws the shitty, itchy woolen blanket off him. He peers down at his body and tries to ignore the thoughts that come to him. Someone changed him. He gets why they did it. Whoever it was. He was nothing but a broken bundle of bodily fluids last time he was conscious. It was probably SAM who ended up stuck with the job, but even that’s still just… he hates the idea of it.
Obviously, he was out cold, but he’s embarrassed he couldn’t just do it himself. The whole thing is embarrassing, actually. Walking out there like that, facing RUBY and LILITH head-on, and getting a free flying lesson out of it. Puking all over himself. Mistaking LUCIFER for MOTHMAN… Well, okay, maybe that part was already starting to be a little funny… slam head against wall (or a tree, actually) funny, but funny, nevertheless. Maybe some more time would pass, and the rest of it could be shit he’d laugh at himself for. At least he’d been healed, now. Probably by MICHAEL. Maybe… maybe he healed CAS too? Got him well enough to jump bodies? It was night, so the angels were probably the ones listening to whatever the music was down the hall, right? The song sounded familiar, but DEAN couldn't quite place it with it being so muffled. Probably one from CAS'S playlist. If only there was someone who cared enough to hang around his bedside so he could figure out what the fuck was going on…
He lifts MIRACLE onto the floor, uses his, once again fully working, legs to wander out of the infirmary and head toward wherever it is the music is coming from. Little paws click along beside him. Shit as the music is, he’s thankful for it, guiding him toward civilization in the sleeping concrete. He stops outside the DEAN CAVE and considers knocking for a brief moment, before catching himself, reminding himself it's his own damn house and pushing the door open.
INT. DEAN CAVE - ???
SAM gasps at his brother as he enters the room.
SAM
Dean!
He clanks down his glass of who knows what and rushes toward him. CHARLIE 2.0 turns down the music and takes a place on SAM’S gray sofa. SAM slams his huge torso into DEAN and envelops him in a hug. DEAN grimaces at the smell of booze fumes.
CHARLIE 2.0
Sorry, if we woke you!
SAM grunts as he squeezes his brother tight. Then lets him go, keeping his hands on DEAN’S shoulders so he can look him in the eye with as much drunk-SAM style emotion as possible.
SAM
I’m not sorry we woke you!
He sighs, nodding at DEAN, who raises his brow in return.
I’m so glad you’re finally awake.
He huffs. DEAN glances at SAM’S still present hand on his shoulder, which his brother then lowers at the hint.
DEAN
Get into the wine coolers again, huh, Sam?
SAM makes a bitch face, and CHARLIE 2.0 looks up from her phone to share a smirk with DEAN. She’s clearly been having the time of her life babysitting tonight.
SAM
House full of hunters.
We ran outta beer but…
Frank-- um-- Deveraux he-- uh, he got some grappa.
DEAN
--’Course he did.
SAM
It’s good, you-- you have some.
He goes to grab his drink, DEAN opens his mouth to decline, but SAM gasps, startling DEAN a little. SAM turns back to DEAN with a snort.
You can’t have some, you were in a coma.
SAM purses his lips and pats DEAN on the upper arm.
But hey-- hey… It’s okay, Dean.
You’re okay now.
He nods as if he’s trying to cheer DEAN up.
DEAN
Uh, back up.
I was in a coma?
SAM nods sadly again, and this time does retrieve his drink, sipping some and then making a hell of a face as he tries to keep from gagging. His voice is thick when he speaks.
SAM
It's been almost a week.
DEAN raises his brows and nods slowly while he takes in that information.
You-- there was nothing wrong with you, Dean, you just didn't wake up…
We were--
SAM huffs and makes a pained face at his feet.
DEAN
Guess that tracks…
Probably just got used to oversleeping, Sam.
I was waiting ‘round in my sleep for Cas to start his midday rooster crow…
He swallows.
And-- and Cas, he-- he’s alright?
DEAN chuckles.
We don’t gotta summon him out all over again, right?
SAM is back on him, drink forgotten, hands gripping at DEAN’S arms.
SAM
Oh, hey.
His voice is overly gentle.
Don’t worry, Dean, everything is okay.
He inhales shakily.
Cas is fine.
DEAN realises he's been holding his breath, lets it out, and SAM grabs DEAN'S face between his hands and gazes glassy-eyed at him. DEAN cringes as SAM shakes DEAN’S head with each word.
Just. because. he’s. gone. from. your. body. doesn't. mean. he's. really. truly. gone.
SAM stares at him, like he's just written some Shakespeare and is waitin’ for an applause, or maybe he's just waiting for something other than disgust at his brother's breath to appear on DEAN’S face. DEAN widens his eyes in frustration and, with effort, nods under SAM’S grip, which evidently appeases him because he nods once too, and turns back to his drink. DEAN adjusts his footing.
DEAN
Any further info you're gonna share or you plannin’ on leaving it at that?
SAM squints at him blankly.
Cas, Sam!
How'd he make the jump if he was that damn unwell?!
I take it Rowena finished making his body, at least?
SAM bobs his head in understanding.
SAM
Right…
He-- Michael pulled Cas out of you and into his vessel.
He had to get Cas outta your body so he wasn't, like, trapped in there unable to move, while you were just unconscious.
DEAN nods… Guilt and shame spiraling around from his brain to his gut like a whirlpool. If he'd only been smart enough and sober enough not to show CAS off… and get CAS off… the damn night everything went down, then none of this woulda happened.
DEAN
He’s--
He balls his hands into fists and flexes them out.
--how come he's stronger without me?
--I mean, that's what you're saying, right?
He's not stuck in his own body, just star-fished on his bed, suck starin’ at the ceiling, right?
SAM
Michael, like, charged him up or somethin’.
He shrugs.
I ‘unno, but he said it would have been too dangerous to do it when he was in your body, so only just figured out he could give it a try….
He took me aside after and said Cas's battery is kinda shot, though, Dean.
Like, even at full charge he's not… Full?
DEAN
Yeah, Cas mentioned something like that before.
Not really sure what that's about, but we should add it to the list of things to worry about.
He rubs at his stubble.
Speaking of…
I'm almost afraid to ask at this point, but, uh, how’re you doing, Sammy?
SAM splutters a laugh and plonks himself onto the couch. He pouts, narrows his eyes and throws up a busted thumb as he nods.
SAM
I’m so cool.
DEAN
Right…
Only, ‘cause it’s been a hot minute since I’ve seen you get this, uh, loose… ya know?
SAM shrugs, his mouth flipping into an upside-down “U” shape. DEAN presses on.
Kinda givin’ a pretty awesome John Winchester impersonation, right now, man.
SAM
Me?!
Dean, you drink, like, every single day?!
DEAN lifts a shoulder, nonchalant.
DEAN
Exactly.
I can handle my liquor.
You get all deceptively nice and overly handsy.
SAM frowns.
SAM
I am nice.
His older brother chortles.
DEAN
Okay, dumbass, you’re a saint, but… you know what I mean.
DEAN continues through a laugh.
Someone die or something?
SAM scoffs.
SAM
I wish.
He throws his feet up onto the coffee table.
DEAN
Wow.
Not me, I hope.
He grins as SAM falls straight back into adult puppy mode.
SAM
N-Never you.
He inhales loudly.
Even-- Even when you-- the worst times!
Never you!
He sighs out his breath.
I was talking about… Ruby…
DEAN narrows his eyes as he stares blankly at his brother.
DEAN
She got away?
Last I saw, you had resurrected your inner Carrie and were smoking their demon asses… literally.
SAM shakes his head solemnly, he grabs DEAN'S eye line with urgency.
SAM
You can't get mad at me, okay?
Even Oasis are-- they're not fighting anymore, so we-- we can never be worse th’n that.
CHARLIE 2.0 snorts, clearly overhearing their conversation. She makes eye contact with DEAN, points toward the door, and squints at him in question. He pulls his lips into a line, rolls his eyes and nods subtly, once. SAM notices zero of this.
Promise me, Dean!
DEAN nods slowly, taking it seriously, and CHARLIE promptly ducks the hell out.
DEAN
Sure, Sam… We'll never be worse than Oasis, okay?
SAM nods, satisfied. His voice is small and low when he speaks.
SAM
… I have to save her.
He sniffs and pulls his eyebrows together, tilting his head to the side like he's in physical pain and is trying desperately not to make a sound. DEAN blinks, inhales sharply to say something, but doesn't know what the hell to say to that… He figures he’s just confused. SAM’S drunk. He’s not making a lick of sense. This conversation’s going all over the place. DEAN wanders over to take a seat by SAM with MIRACLE in tow.
DEAN
Save who, Sam?
Save Jess?
SAM slides his drink over to DEAN, offering it to him automatically, forgetting already that he's just decided against it. DEAN pushes the glass of cleaning fluid the hell away from him. Then pats his lap giving MIRACLE the okay to jump up onto it.
Sorry, must still be a bit fuzzy from the coma, Sammy… ‘Cause for a second there it sounded like you were saying you let Ruby walk…
SAM
I-- you can't have this.
He shrugs, embarrassed at his drunken short term memory loss. DEAN clicks his fingers three times, then rakes them through MIRACLES fur.
DEAN
Big Friendly Giant, stay on task.
SAM beams, his body bounces as he laughs, silently.
SAM
Remember when you helped me with that book report in grade school?
DEAN closes his eyes and raises his brows, pinching the bridge of his nose and focusing on counting to ten in his head, trying to calm his frustration.
Okay!
God, I’m just trying to talk about nicer things, Dean.
He rolls his eyes. DEAN wants to hit him.
Yes, I'm healing Ruby.
DEAN’S eyes widen.
Before you even say it-- you're probably right, maybe it's a bad idea, but I have to try!
DEAN’S voice is bordering on hysterical.
DEAN
No!
No, you don't!
He throws his arms up.
How?!--
Why would--
SAM
--Listen.
I get that you think things are easier black ‘n’ white.
Ya always have, Dean.
He shakes his head.
But for me, being someone who went down that road?
I gotta believe others deserve to come back from it, ‘cause if they deserve to, then… I do too.
DEAN drops his head back and squeezes his eyes closed tight.
DEAN
It's not the same!
He stays there a moment.
She's the whole reason you went down that road, Sam!
SAM
No, she's not!
At least not completely!
Some of it was Chuck, and well-- the rest… that's on me.
SAM grabs at DEAN'S wrist, mid self-stoothing stoke of dog fur, and DEAN reluctantly lowers his head and opens his eyes. SAM’S nose is flaring with the depth of his breathing, his eyebrows are set low. He's looking desperately for approval from DEAN, and DEAN knows that. He shakes his head.
DEAN
I don't like it.
This why you've up and decided you gotta get hammered?
All that traumatic shit slappin’ you in the face every time you--
DEAN breathes.
--She in the basement?
SAM
Yeah-- but don't worry, we're taking turns keepin’ an eye on her.
SAM’S oblivious to DEAN'S face as it pales.
Well, Michael, is mainly but-- either way-- she's not stepping foot out of that devil’s trap until we wan’ ‘er to.
DEAN blinks. Dazed.
DEAN
Right…
Good.
Uh, and what else--
What other…
Brain back up and running… Basement, not a shrine. People use it. He's used it. No big deal… CAS is fine. CAS is MIA. CAS is a coward. CAS is a dick. BUT CAS is alive.
Hang on.
It took a day to clear the black outta my eyes, how long you been donating your O neg?
SAM swallows and shakes his head.
SAM
Yeah, I ‘unno.
I think maybe because she's been a demon longer?
I started it straight away and she--
DEAN
--and Crowley, he was almost healed in a day!
SAM
--Maybe, I still have her blood in me!?
Maybe it's not working ‘cause my blood isn't pure enough to save her!
That what you wanna hear?!
DEAN flinches.
DEAN
Wha-- no!
Sam--
He laughs.
-- that's just bullshit!
Your blood sure as hell was pure enough to save me, you drunk idiot.
SAM nods, jerkily, thankful.
She's probably just defective or something.
Gotta do a Sam Special and get a dialysis machine pumpin’ that sludge of hers clean.
SAM sighs.
What about Lucifer?
DEAN cuts SAM off before he can speak, with an accompanying raise of his hand.
No, let me guess.
You two are booked in to go visit some healing retreat for the weekend.
SAM
No.
I did kinda hope… given everything, maybe he'd grown, you know?
I guess, I thought we'd had some kinda understanding, after everything we'd all been through.
DEAN can’t believe what he's hearing. He simply blinks at SAM, wide-eyed.
A-And I thought that maybe he'd be able to help us take on Chuck again… You know?
SAM swallows, then inhales sharply.
Do'e'n't matter ‘cause he’s dead, now.
Like… dead, dead, I think.
DEAN squints at him.
DEAN
Meaning?
SAM
Meaning…
He shrugs.
I don't know…
I have to talk to Rowena more ‘cause I-- I have no clue what I'm doing here, but it-- it felt like I scattered him…
Like, I somehow, someway, managed to stop him from being taken to the empty and instead he just--
He pushes his hands away, wiggling his fingers, and makes a fart noise with his tongue.
--gone.
Thin air.
Same with Lilith.
DEAN frowns.
DEAN
Not that that's not-- I mean that a huge win if-- if Chuck can't bring them back, if he can't just keep recycling the same old traps for us until he’s strong enough to drop the Jack act… hell, I’d be--
He shakes his head.
You should definitely talk to Rowena, is what I'm gettin’ at, ‘cause that-- that just seems a little too good to be true, you know?
SAM pulls his face tight and nods like he’s just received an order from his drill Sergeant. DEAN wants to crawl under the table.
Uh, yeah, that's cool, though, man.
He clears his throat.
Max and Alicia, they make it out, okay?
SAM speaks through a yawn.
SAM
Yeah.
Ruby is the demon who made the borrower ring Max has, so they're both here now.
Oh--
He slaps the back of his hand on DEAN’S arm to get his attention… unnecessarily. DEAN scowls and rubs it.
So, like, everyone's gone, pretty much.
DEAN
Huh?
SAM
Everyone Cheat Codes brought back?
They've all pretty much left.
He pops his bottom lip out and raises his brows, like he too is just finding this information out.
DEAN
Oh, uh, who-- who's…
He lets his question trail off, unsure if he’ll sound more needy and clingy if he asks who’s left, or who's stayed. SAM pouts and looks off to the side as he thinks.
SAM
So, uh, Charlie-- our Charlie-- though, I think the Apocalypse world Charlie is starting to warm up to me…
He nods with a sly grin, and DEAN wonders if SAM will feel the same when he wakes up in the morning, sober.
--She’s staying with her parents, don’t know where, but they wanted some time alone.
Wouldn't be too surprised if Charlie’s kept her family home though somehow, all this time, using some hacking and a little fraud.
He grins, and DEAN does too. He thinks perhaps SAM could be spot on about that one.
Uh, Amelia and Jimmy are gone, thankfully.
It’s just too weird seeing Cas’s twin walking around…
Claire wouldn't budge, which is it's own whole thing...
Um, Jody left with her husband and kid, which you know about…
DEAN nods, continuing to pull lines into MIRACLES fur.
Who else?
Oh, Donna took in Kaia, and Alex…
Patience and Missouri are also staying with Donna.
SAM smacks DEAN’S arm again, DEAN hits him back, this time with a furrowed brow. SAM laughs.
No, Dean, get this!
Pamela and Ash are out there somewhere… together.
Some music festival or something… I'm pretty certain they're… involved.
DEAN fake gasps.
DEAN
Somebody call the damn cops!
SAM grins and rolls his eyes. He goes for another sip of his drink and physically recoils at the resulting burn.
Wow.
You’re definitely makin’ me want some of that.
DEAN shakes his head and gets another classic SAM pursed-lipped bitch face, in return. Although, beggers can't get choosie and DEAN'S starting to need a drink...
SAM
Anyway…
Kevin left with Mrs. Tran, which Kevin seemed unsure of and kept asking, and asking, if I was sure we didn’t need him for anything and I--
I swear I almost lost it at him…
Which was kinda funny…
SAM chortles drunkenly in memory and DEAN scoffs.
DEAN
Yeah, sounds hilarious.
SAM snorts, then lowers his voice so it's almost a whisper.
SAM
Uh, Eileen's parents hover a lot compared to mom, when she came back, and met her new--
He catches himself with a face.
--old-- kids... as adults.
Which is fine, but, like, every time I walk to talk to Eileen alone, they're either popping up outta nowhere, or she’s just complaining about how much they keep popping up outta nowhere.
His voice raises even louder than it initially was by the end of his sentence. SAM frowns down at MIRACLE, he takes a quick shot of his drink, preparing himself to say something important.
SAM
Dean, I--
He turns away, thinking-- incorrectly-- that he’s hiding the pain on his face.
DEAN
What?
DEAN lifts one of his hands from MIRACLE to start patting both SAM’S back and the dog, simultaneously.
SAM
Miracle…
I--
SAM looks into THE DOG’S eyes. His own eyes welling with tears.
After everythin’, he just reminded me of--
He breathes in twice like he’s about to start bawling, and DEAN starts to guess where this is headed. SAM gave his dog away. Free to a good home, just get him the hell--
--I got ‘im put down.
DEAN stares blankly down at the dog in his lap...
I mean-- I-- I think I did…
It-- after the guilt of what I did--
I sent him to a shelter and--
I doubt, Cheat Codes woulda just stolen him from his new family, you know?
I just-- I couldn’t look at him… knowing what I’d done--
DEAN gapes at his brother.
DEAN
... What d’you mean, Sam?
Wha-What did you do...?
SAM scoffs a laugh.
SAM
I shoulda never…
He blinks and a tear rolls down his cheek. He swipes it away, angrily, then grits his teeth and turns to peer up at DEAN.
You told me to say it was okay…
You asked me to let you die and I--
He looks closer to hurling than he has all night, so far. DEAN closes his eyes and breathes.
DEAN
Don’t Sam.
A sarcastic chuckle bursts from SAM in a sob.
I--
It’s--
He opens his eyes and looks down at his MIRACLE dog, silently begging for some help, his hands still running up and down the pair of them.
How about this…
I promise, I will tell you everything at some point, okay.
But for now, you’re gonna have to just trust me when I say that--
He breathes out and lowers his hand from SAM’S back now that it’s started to cramp.
If anyone has any apologizing to do about any of that, it's me, not you.
I shouldn’t have left.
I should have come to you, been honest about some things.
Things...
He laughs.
--Things, I’m still not ready to be honest about…
Things, I think you probably know about already.
He shrugs.
You just gotta give me some time, okay, Sammy?
SAM’S face wavers between understanding, curiosity, and pain, but he pulls his lips in tight and nods twice with a sniff and wipes at his tears. DEAN mirrors his nod.
DEAN
Good.
Uh, thanks…
So, uh--
Back to lighter topics--
He chuckles.
--anyone else gone or…
SAM thinks about it for a minute.
SAM
Think that's it…
Oh!
He hits DEAN’S arm a third time, and DEAN’S mouth falls open as he stares incredulous, yet bemused, daggers at SAM. SAM shrinks into the couch and tries not to laugh.
…Apocalypse Bobby…
He, um, he went to see Rufus.
DEAN shakes his head.
DEAN
‘Course he has.
When’d that mean old bastard get back down to the main lobby?
SAM bobs his head, realising his mistake.
SAM
Oh, yeah, Bobby mentioned it to me a ways back, forgot, sorry.
Think he must have been with the group… just left separate ‘cause--
He chuckles and sniffs, spluttering some left over, residual tears.
--Well ‘cause he's a mean old bastard.
DEAN rolls his head as he speaks, stretching his neck.
DEAN
So, we have no real way of knowing just how many people Friendly did bring back, is what you're sayin’?
SAM
Guess so.
He considers this, then gingerly, shakily, places his hand upon MIRACLE’S head. The dog nuzzles into the pat, and SAM’S eyes start to spill over with silent tears as he smiles. He sniffs and clears his throat loudly.
Haven't heard anything about the dead suddenly popping up outta nowhere.
Have you?
DEAN
Not while I was looking earlier.
Been a minute, though, since I looked.
SAM nods solemnly, gives MIRACLE a grin as if to thank him for accepting his apology, then pulls out his phone and immediately gets into his favorite news apps. He frowns and flips his phone around, raising it to DEAN’S eye line, and DEAN has to grab at the damn thing to steady his brother's hand long enough to see what the phone even says.
EXTREME TORNADO WARNING FOR KANSAS CENTRAL NORTH - ADVICE - STAY INFORMED - WATCH AND ACT.
BLACK OUT
END OF ACT ONE
Notes:
Early Chapter because I'm away this week.
If you've ever read my other (orphaned but in denial about it) fic, "hear my train a comin'" you'll know I stole Dean's nightmare sequence from myself hehehe.
Chapter 19: "Bottle Episode" Part 2
Summary:
Free To Be You and Me.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
ACT TWO
INT. KITCHEN - 9:50 am
DEAN sits alone at the table playing THE NEW YORK TIMES games app. He started by jamming “ADIEU” into WORDLE and after getting only the “I” back green, with the rest turning grey, he's pretty much stumped. He drains a few more mouthfuls of his gross, cold coffee and tries to ignore the pit in his stomach that's been there since he woke up from his, apparently self-appointed, coma.
Before DEAN carted, almost literally, his drunk ass baby brother to bed a few hours ago he'd found out as much as he could about their current living situation, so he could be sure they were all prepped and ready for this stupid inconvenient tornado that was supposedly coming at some point tonight. He knew that he didn't really need to stress as much as he was, given that he had good ol’ FRIENDLY CHEATS MCCODERTON if they were low on supplies or, even if someone-- not necessarily him-- needed a breather from all the bunker's drama and wanted to get zapped to Fiji or something.
Turns out after saying he hadn't heard CNN bring up the fact that the dead were in fact, walking, SAM had casually just then remembered to mention that all of the poor guy's DEAD EX'S were now back in play. MADISON, the wolf girl he had smoked, threw him a text, something along the lines of, “Hey, I’m alive. I'm cured, and I've been given a fresh-start-gift-pack full of dodgy documents and loaded credit cards from a strange, silent figure. I assume this has something to do with you?”, and that had prompted SAM to give Art Dealer, SARAH, a call.
She'd turned up to the bunker for a lunch with SAM while DEAN was still out cold, her husband supposedly trying his damnedest to act like he wasn't way outta his depth. They'd been handed some kind of care package too and were thinking about moving to France, which sounded too cliché for DEAN not to crack up at, and even SAM had a bit of a laugh as he relayed the information.
Drunk SAM then went down the JESS rabbit hole. Apparently JESS has been calling SAM still, per his instructions, but it seems to just make SAM more depressed and confused about everything. He’d had another frustrated, boogery cry when he got to yapping about how she's trying to mourn their lives and how it's sorta forcing him to do the same, a whole can of worms that both SAM and DEAN assumed SAM had moved on from but, hey, maybe having your adolescent, fresh from the dirt, ex-girlfriend whack you in the face with what your life could have been, every time the two of you speak, doesn't do wonders for your overall happiness meter.
That's about the time that DEAN, after letting SAMMY cry himself out, lugged the big sack of sad, off to his room with his new huge water bottle and some painkillers on the bedside table for when he wakes up. In SAM’S room, DEAN took a minute to stare into the small, extra space SAM got in his room upgrade when they first got zapped back from SAMMY'S real house, what seemed like forever ago, now. SAM had made a few attempts at using the Ghost-pottery-wheel-thing. He had left one wonky-looking chunk of clay that had clearly been abandoned, sitting on the wheel, looking dry, like it'd crumble if you placed a feather on it. But, on the drying shelf thing, he'd make what looked to DEAN like a small bowl. The thing was flat and even, and had a lip-- or whatever you call it-- on the end. He'd painted it a shiny, glossy black. It looked awesome, and DEAN could only assume it was a “key and wallet” bowl, not a, “cereal or ramen” bowl. He decided he’d ask SAM to make him one when the guy was up to it, then ditched him and went to hang out in his own room, after failing to find anyone else and assuming the only ones awake were in the basement. He ended up wasting some time, away from the prying eyes of THE CAMERA until it was people o’clock.
The thing about having BOBBY around is that DEAN can’t bring himself to ask if the poor bastard is happy. Earlier that morning, DEAN decided that he wanted to offer up CHEAT CODES’ chauffeur services, maybe see if there's enough never-ending money in his never-ending money card, to revamp the SINGER SALVAGE YARD… but for some reason every goddamn time he went to say something, he clamped up. That reason-- he knows, but it's fucking embarrassing to admit it to himself-- having KAREN around is so damn nice, DEAN can’t even physically bring himself to tell BOBBY to fuck off and go be happy with her, because he wants-- hell-- he needs them both around at the moment. While the three of them hung around in the kitchen alone all morning, DEAN had pretty much spent the entire time grinning and thanking this stupid ass tornado ‘cause he doubted BOBBY’D be too keen on leaving right now, even if DEAN did decide to un-glue his mouth. KAREN’S an optimistic sonofabitch with mom vibes out the wazoo; always singing to herself as she cooks or cleans up after everyone-- another thing DEAN feels bad about. He's gotta change his habits purely for her sake. She offered to make him some breakfast, and he jumped at it. She kept topping up his coffee until he realized he had to tell her to stop, to get her to do so. BOBBY’S just as bad as DEAN, though-- maybe worse-- watching her with heart eyes, but not liftin’ a finger to help wash even a single dish, after they all ate. At least DEAN managed to jump in and get himself on dry-and-put-away duty.
BOBBY was pretty open about the bunker drama that DEAN had missed while having his little nap, though, which was handy. Not like SAM would be willing to dish out anyone's dirty laundry. Over breakfast, DEAN had learned that APOCALYPSE WORLD CHARLIE and STEVIE-- who, by the way, who even knows when she got here-- were basically the bad influences of the bunker. The couple, along with FRANK had been smoking weed, and some other shit that BOBBY couldn't even place that apparently had been found in the new upstairs greenhouse. CHARLIE had told BOBBY that it was a mild hallucinogen that they used to smoke in her world. While BOBBY seemed to disapprove, DEAN was mainly just reminded to stress about the tornado all over again, and consider the likelihood that the whole above-ground section of their home could be broken down to the studs. SAM and CAS had loved that new add on too. Shame nothing good seemed to last around here, still. BOBBY snapped him outta that spiral though, when he said CLAIRE was up there with them a few times, potentially smoking god knows what. He almost-- almost bolted then and there, to find her and get his throat real sore, but decided he'd better give her a break, and that he’d probably have more luck if he played it cool. A little ganja never hurt, but she better stay the hell away from the magical mystery plant if she wants to keep DEAN from losing the last of his gourd. The way BOBBY tells it makes DEAN pretty damn sure, that CHARLIE 2.0 is off the rails, ‘cause CHARLIE 1.0's family got a ticket back down to Alivesville, and 2.0’S is still dead, back in an alternate world. BOBBY says 2.0 seems to perk up a bit around MAGGIE and the others from the apocalypse world, though, and has decided it's probably ‘cause they’ve chosen to stick around too, instead of go back to that shithole, even though they’ve all been informed that their MICHAEL is dead. Then that whole chunk of info made DEAN feel guilty for the way he’s been acting around regular MICHAEL because he can't imagine the awkward hallway conversation that guy ain't ever getting. DEAN gets the heebie-jeebies around the dude, and he's sharing about 50% DNA in common.
BOBBY also shared that MICK has stuck around and is apparently weirdly taken by KELLY-- who just so happens to be yet another person DEAN has decided to avoid like the damn plague. Not for any fault of her own, she's a nice enough gal, but DEAN literally got a jolt that ran through his entire body like an electric shock when BOBBY even mentioned her, and he had to try to subtly get BOBBY to move on from talking about her ‘cause he was genuinely getting a little worried he was a second away from covering the man in a projectile vomit.
ELLEN, JO, and BILL ran out on ‘em too, drunk SAM had forgotten to add them to the list. Add that to the list of yet another source of guilt, ‘cause DEAN was so fuckin’ relieved to hear that news, ‘cause that meant no more looking at him expectantly like he’s supposed to say something to them. He was pretty sure he was only about a stone’s throw from getting hammered on FRANK'S nasty drink fumes or CHARLIE'S smoke fumes, just so he could fall at their feet apologizing for getting them killed, thanking them for taking one for the team, admitting he had a little crush on JO way back, and even ELLEN did a little something for him, but now he doesn't have to get all bleary-eyed and desperate-- it was either that or he was gonna start yelling and swingin’ til they told him what the fuck it was that they wanted him to say. Outta sight outta mind? He should be so lucky. At least now that BILL'S gone, it's not like JOHN could be pissed at that specific person keeping him from staying in the bunker. One down…
DEAN types “GOING”, into WORDLE, and he gets “ING” back in green. He considers the remaining options and hears a familiar footfall, rounding the corner into the kitchen. He keeps his eyes glued to the screen, feeling the air shift and become thicker as CAS enters the room. A strange and indescribable difference, having the angel exist beside him out amongst the world, in comparison to how it was when they shared DEAN’S body. Not in a-- well, kind of, maybe in that way… shut up .
DEAN tries and fails to remind himself that he'd been there all along, with him, closer than they'd ever been before, ‘cause only now is it feeling like CAS is truly back.
The smell of CASTIEL'S aftershave flows through the air at DEAN as it mixes with the natural musk of his freshly made, yet identical, body. DEAN is filled with the ridiculous urge to bound from his chair and hug the ever-loving shit outta him and welcome him back but… ridiculous-- DEAN pretty much swam in CAS'S entire being-- not like he's been missing in action.
DEAN
Snuck out on me while I slept, huh?
Real classy.
DEAN looks up at CAS with a smirk. CAS grins in return.
CAS
I was worried when I couldn't find you in your regular spot in the infirmary.
He walks over to the coffee pot and pours himself a mug of cold coffee.
I'm glad you finally became bored enough to decide to wake up.
DEAN lets out a single sarcastic laugh.
DEAN
Ha.
Yeah, my alarm clock ditched me for another body.
CAS walks over to join DEAN at the table. He slides himself into the seat opposite.
I hear I've missed out on a lotta action, man.
Does nobody care that I’m the poster boy for FOMO?
CAS shakes his head.
CAS
It’s probably healthy for you to have been forced to take a break from being the center of attention at all times.
CAS sips at the cold coffee without so much as a wince. DEAN’S brows shoot up. He holds a hand to his chest in mock offense.
DEAN
You saying that bein’ one of god’s favorite action figures has had some kinda negative effect on me?
CAS pretends to become lost in his thoughts.
CAS
I would say considering yourself an action figure rather than a Ken doll is prime example of one of the negative effects.
DEAN blinks, wide eyes at CAS in proud disbelief at the jab, then his face contorts as he takes in the full scope of the insult.
DEAN
Hey!?
I-- You think I give off Ken vibes?!
CAS beams like he's just won an award for being the funniest man woman or angel alive. He speaks through laughter.
CAS
Please--
He begs.
-- explain to me what is currently going on in your head.
DEAN frowns and grunts down at the coffee in front of him. He’s not touching that one.
DEAN
You lost that privilege when you jumped ship, Cas.
Sorry.
It’s DEAN'S turn to grin in triumph, across the table.
Guess you'll never find out…
All that juicy information I got up in here--
He taps his index and middle finger to his temple.
--Steal trap.
CAS continues to smile but shakes his head in exasperation.
So…
What have you been up to over the last week?
I mean, beyond skipping out as soon as I decided to play dead too convincingly.
CAS does frown now.
CAS
I--
I am sorry that I left you, Dean.
If I stayed, it may have killed you.
I would have-- communicated or-- stuck around-- if-- if I--
DEAN waves a hand lazily.
DEAN
-- It’s fine, Cas.
I’m messing with you, man.
Yet CAS remains unsold, he pulls his lips thin as he searches DEAN for any kind of tell.
You been sleepin’?
Didn't notice you lurkin’ the halls in the dead of morning.
CAS sighs, giving up on the potential for a deeper conversation, and DEAN licks his lips and throws him a grin, amused that he’s managed to win again.
CAS
I have been sleeping, yes.
And…
I have eaten twice in the last week.
DEAN’S gobsmacked at that. CAS revels in it.
DEAN
Uh--
You--
Eating… huh?
Like, human food?!
CAS’S mouth twitches.
CAS
Would you have preferred if I had been eating Miracle’s kibble?
He squints as DEAN points a finger at THE ANGEL.
DEAN
You better not have.
That shit's expensive.
DEAN’S smile grows and wavers as he revels in his future joke.
Though, it'd explain why your coat's looking extra luscious and healthy.
CAS glances at his trench coat for a moment before he rolls his eyes fondly. DEAN licks at his lips, again, happy to have achieved a little harmless prank and received a perfect, classic, CAS reaction. His cheeks are starting to hurt from all the grinning he’s been doing so far, today.
Lobster and decadence, or back to the classic PB and J sandwiches?
CAS
The lobster was a--
CASTIEL’S eyes roam the kitchen.
-- I was mainly indulging in the novelty of helping you to treat yourself with some well-earned extravagances that you haven't ever experienced before…
DEAN knits his eyebrows together and opens his mouth to object.
-- your pleasure was my pleasure, though, as you know.
CASTIEL freezes, only just realizing he has inadvertently brought up the topic of their drunken little escapade. DEAN freezes too, but he knows he's wide-eyed and warm about it whereas CAS… well, he looks like he's about to completely disappear on DEAN… again…
Surprisingly he doesn't, instead then does an extremely human thing and clears his throat.
Anyway, I am back to tasting alone with my own tongue, so smooth peanut butter on white bread, it is.
I am considering going grocery shopping at some point though, to try to see what other food I might enjoy, apart from expired fruit cakes and Funyuns, of course.
DEAN swallows, calming himself. He nods.
DEAN
Of course…
He sighs. DEAN narrows his gaze over CAS with suspicion.
You seem… happier… this morning, man…
Should I be offended, or you just been crabby ‘cause I was so malnourished?
CAS huffs.
CAS
Maybe, it’s because Sam had me convinced for a moment there, that perhaps you wanted to sleep forever …
CAS pulls his mouth into a frown.
He was under the impression you were potentially--
He looks into the mug as he finishes his sentence.
-- Happier asleep.
DEAN scoffs.
DEAN
Someone was clearly projecting when he came up with that little theory…
DEAN sighs again.
Sam’s…
He’s not doing the best, Cas.
CAS
I seem to recall mentioning that to you weeks ago, now.
DEAN rolls his eyes. Smug asshat.
DEAN
Okay, and he was not great then, but he's worse now.
Still takin’ the happy pills, which is a plus, but he’s been “too busy” for therapy, which--
DEAN shrugs.
-- I think the whole therapy thing’s a load’a pastrami, but if he thought it was doin’ some good…
CAS studies DEAN as he lets the end of his sentence draw out.
CAS
I think a large portion of Sam’s stress could be lifted if he wasn't so worried about you, and vice versa.
He goes to take another drink but lowers the mug at the last second.
Have you tried speaking to him properly about your death yet?
DEAN chuckles and CAS drinks more of the shitty cold coffee.
DEAN
Dude, I literally just woke up last night, and he was wasted.
I barely got a word in after he got going ‘bout all the stuff that was weighin’ him down.
But… kind of--
I mean, I told him that I'd tell him?
Does that count?
CAS exhales a sigh that practically screams “disappointed” at DEAN’S answer, and then returns to searching DEAN'S face. DEAN eventually has to look away at the weight of it.
CAS
What about you, Dean, how are you?
DEAN accidentally peers up and makes direct eye contact. He knows CAS sees into his soul, right as he has the wind knocked outta him, and is suddenly overcome with emotion… just at being asked such a basic ass question. He swallows down a lump in his throat and laughs as his eyes get a little blurry. He jumps up outta his seat and walks over to the coffee pot. DEAN’S grateful for years of practice, when he’s successful in keeping his shit pushed down and locked up tight when he replies.
DEAN
Yeah.
I-- I mean, it's a lot, right?
Having everyone back here like this?
He pours himself the last of the old coffee.
I'm not surprised Sammy's barely keepin’ his head above water.
DEAN glances up in time to see CAS'S brows fall at DEAN'S response. He chuckles.
Sounds crazy, complainin’ about how hard it is to have people back and kickin’ ‘round, after all the real bad shit that we've tight lid and tight-lipped over the years.
CAS smiles warmly as DEAN takes his place back at the table.
CAS
I suppose there's a comfort in tragedy if that's what you're used to.
DEAN raises his brows and nods in agreement. Wise, poetic bastard.
DEAN
Anyway, what about you?
DEAN leans over and pokes his finger at the back of CAS’S spare hand, where it lies flat on the table.
You all healthy in there?
DEAN lets his hand fall beside CASTIEL’S, brushing his pinky against CAS'S thumb.
Michael got you charged up again, I hear?
CAS, not so smoothly, avoids eye contact, and DEAN all but physically sees a “STOP” sign flash above CAS'S head. If it’s ‘cause of the whole grace convo, or it's 'cause of the maybe-not-as-subtle-as-he-thought, urge, to get rid of some of that new-old space between 'em, DEAN doesn't know, but he plays it cool and pokes CAS'S hand again, then pulls his own back to his mug with a trademark smile. I'm just Dean Winchester. This is what I do. Dean Winchester is a pain in everyone's ass. It's fine. This is who I am. CAS stares on, as normal, not giving an ounce away.
CAS
Yes…
All…
Charged…
CAS then takes an obvious play from the DEAN WINCHESTER handbook and smiles back at DEAN before changing the subject-- little shit.
Have you been made aware that there's a tornado that will be hitting here at some point during the night?
DEAN grins, begrudgingly, with narrowed eyes, to let CAS know, that he noticed the evasion, but is letting it go outta the kindness of his heart, and also so DEAN has some kinda proof that CAS is a hypocritical bastard, when he tries to get DEAN to talk about his feelings or some shit next time. CAS'S mouth budges ever so minuscule in the corner in return, and DEAN knows that, now, CAS definitely knows, that they both know what's just transpired. Good . (Most likely at the whole grace thing, but maybe at the threesome fiasco considering the guy literally hid from DEAN after... but who knows how CAS actually feels about all that) DEAN sighs.
DEAN
Yeah.
Got Cheat Codes to go on a supply run earlier, got more beer, and probably went a little too far on the canned goods.
Just don't try using the shooting range within the next-- I don't know… five centuries or so.
...Stacked to the seams.
I, uh-- I'm not too sure how the above-ground levels are gonna hold up, though.
You think we could ask them Friendly to just… get rid of the whole tornado completely?
CAS places a finger to his chin in thought.
CAS
It’s worth asking.
I had been thinking about trying to communicate with them properly again, now that I am alone with no other mind to drag into the conversation.
DEAN scratches at his stubble, absentmindedly, trying not to think of how brazen his subconscious had been, and trying even harder not to take CAS’S silence on the whole thing as a rejection. CAS had tried to talk about it, he was probably just being nice and not pushing.
Would you like me to ask anything on your behalf?
DEAN
I guess you could ask for Apocalypse Charlie’s parents, maybe see if they’ll remake the sun room and greenhouse once this freakin’ tornado, has had its way with it?
CAS nods slowly, staring into his mug. He shoots the last of it.
CAS
I was referring more to, answerable questions that they can reply to, via angel radio.
DEAN tilts his head side to side, considering.
DEAN
Yeah, I think I’ll have to start writin’ ‘em down as they come to me.
I got nothin’ straight off the bat.
He flicks his chin at CAS.
What you got planned?
CAS shrugs.
CAS
I was mainly planning on seeing if they could share any insight regarding--
He chuckles a soft sound of disbelief.
-- releasing our son from Chuck’s grasp.
DEAN frowns and glares at his shitty coffee. He takes a mouthful from his mug and shakes his head at it in disappointment. Cold and gross. CAS’S eyes crinkle in the corners as he watches DEAN almost gag on it, and DEAN’S stomach flips. He swallows.
DEAN
You don’t think they woulda just made a, “Press 'here' to free Jack”, button, appear by now, if that was in the cards?
CAS leans across the table and slips his hands under DEAN’S, on his cowboy boot shaped mug. DEAN doesn't move an inch. He falls into CAS’S blue eyes, with his eyebrows drawn together in confusion. Then, CAS pulls the mug toward himself with a smile, leaving DEAN’S hands alone, hovering in the air. CAS drinks from the mug, his voice determined when he lowers the boot, and speaks, again.
CAS
I won’t just assume that there’s nothing to be done.
They were willing to give out food and drinks with a mere mention of being moderately, “Snacky”, and yet did nothing to heal you when you were a hairsbreadth from dying?
They only interfered enough to help the other day after we suggested it.
I need to understand their rules.
We all do, if we want to survive long enough to see and end to Chuck, and finally get Jack back home in the bunker, because it seems their goal of “keeping us all safe” and helping us to reach a “happy ending”, seems more complex than I had initially hoped.
DEAN
Guess it depends on what they meant by "happy ending", ‘ey, Cas.
He couldn’t help it. CAS looks at him in confusion. DEAN shakes his head.
It was a-- a joke about…
Don’t worry.
CAS nods slowly. Lookin' as if he's got at least fifty percent of an idea what DEAN’S talking about, but clearly doesn't want to push to find out, either way.
CAS
Perhaps I’ll make the rounds, ask everyone if they have any questions before I try to engage in conversation.
He looks at THE CAMERA.
And then there’s the issue of actually remembering how to do it.
He frowns.
I think you were the one who initiated the majority of that last time.
DEAN nods, now understanding.
DEAN
Right…
I was wondering why you weren’t already best buds.
Kind of assumed you’d have ‘em on speed dial and know all the secrets to the universe, by now.
CAS exhales a gentle scoff.
CAS
When has anything ever been that easy.
DEAN raises his brows and nods, eyes unfocused as he’s lost in thought. CAS breathes in deeply.
An unintentionally perfect segue for me to raise the fact that, I am no longer occupying your body, and that you had said that you would now be willing to discuss--
DEAN
-- Right…
DEAN sighs, and scrubs his hand over his mouth.
You in a hurry to get this shit over with, so you can up and vanish on some bonus mission that’ll get you dead?
CAS frowns.
CAS
N--No, I just--
DEAN
Look, I get that there’s shit we gotta flesh out, Cas, but can it wait, like, five minutes?
DEAN balls his hands up.
I mean, you just asked me how I was, and I went all Teething Baby, and your instinct is to, what, immediately bring up the worst day of my whole damn life?
Thought you’d got better at readin’ the room, man.
DEAN’S hurt him with that one. He knew it would sting, and that’s exactly why he said it. CAS stares down at the DR. SEXY mug like it holds some ancient language only he can decipher, and DEAN regrets every second of his life. Not like it's a secret, CAS had fucked him up a little that day in the dungeon, DEAN hasn’t been shy about that much. He closes his eyes and breathes, then raps his fist on the table twice.
It's good to have you back, though, Cas.
He declares without his own permission. He laughs, soft, yet awkwardly, and makes a face, shaking his head.
Not that you’ve--
But, unexpectedly, CAS seems to appreciate hearing the dumbass words. His smile widen until he glances down at his coffee again, with a sheepish expression.
CAS
Thank you, Dean.
It feels really good to be back.
He glances up at DEAN, then sees something in him, DEAN doesn't even know he’s showing, the angel amends himself.
--Not that I didn't appreciate our time together, I did.
I can never repay you for everything you've given me, Dean.
DEAN tries to stop CAS'S needless explanation, but he's cut off as CAS continues.
--I just meant as far as the freedom to exist alone in a body, to move my own fingers, my own toes, alone without having to consider that I am merely a guest is…
He shakes his head slightly, speechless.
DEAN
Hey, man, I get it.
I was there too, remember.
He steals CAS’S empty mug and raises in a cheer.
To, uh-- To having ownership over our whole ass...
He gestures up and down over himself. CAS raises his cold coffee.
CAS
To autonomy.
DEAN nods once in agreement. They put their mugs together with a clink of ceramic. Oblivious to the third party who has entered the room, and is glaring sleepily at the pair's general jovial energy with envy and nausea.
SAM
To never, ever drinkin’ again.
He snorts, then raises his empty water bottle as if in on the cheers. Before dropping his arm, wandering to the fridge to add cold water and ice cubes to his bottle.
END OF ACT TWO
Notes:
Sorry this one is late and short. If you follow me over on tumblr (https://supernaturalsidepiece.tumblr.com) you'll maybe have seen that I've been a little under the weather. Love you guys!
Chapter Text
ACT THREE
INT - MOL HALLWAY - 10:47 AM
CASTIEL wanders the hall from the basement after having just checked in on MICHAEL and RUBY, confirming that there is, still yet to be any change in her healing progress, and to ask MICHAEL if he has any questions for this ever mysterious FIGURE that they have little knowledge or understanding of. MICHAEL, in typical MICHAEL fashion, requested for CAS to ask if the FIGURE, “The meaning of life”, at which point RUBY decided to share her own thoughts on the matter which were particularly bleak, and, well, CAS was just glad that MICHAEL had ADAM to consider because after hearing a tirade from long since, damned human soul, about pain and agony were the only guarantees in life… It’s hard to remain optimistic, and It seemed that nobody in the bunker, nor in his bizarre little circle of friends, were feeling particularly confident at this point in time.
CAS, however, is finding that beyond the obvious crushing anguish over his SON being held hostage by his FATHER, and the strange and uncomfortable awkwardness between him and DEAN, he is mostly chipper. He just has to remain focused on being of use to others, and helping to progress either of the aforementioned situations.
KELLY is the next stop on his list of people to inform of his intended future attempt at a further conversion with CHEAT CODES-- He feels this name was given with too much haste and that it’s already been proven they are much less simple than that.
As he nears KELLY’S room, however, CAS spots CLAIRE, rounding the corner ahead.
CAS
Claire!
She halts, shuffles backwards a few paces, then turns to face him, her expression one of defensive curiosity.
Can I speak with you a moment?
She throws her head down and sighs, as if expecting an unpleasant conversation, perhaps full of reprimand.
CLAIRE
Yeah.
She sighs again, and makes her way toward him, as she grows closer she begins to skip, and when decidedly close enough, she jumps the last few steps, landing in front of him with both her feet together. The sound of her shoes hitting the floor echos through the halls. She straightens up with a smile, and CAS can’t help but to return one in kind.
Whaddup, C-Dog?
CAS
Oh, nothing much, also… C-Dog…
CLAIRE is clearly elated by CAS’S use of the matching nickname. Her smile widening enough to show her teeth.
I was just wondering if you had anything you would like me to ask, well--
He points to THE CAMERA, her gaze follows.
-- Them.
I plan on attempting to make contact with them, again, at some point today, once I have asked everyone staying here if they have any questions.
CLAIRE pushes her bottom lip out and her eyes wander to the side as she thinks.
CLAIRE
Ask ‘em why my ‘rents were totally cool with just ditching me here to go play happy families without me.
She shoots CAS finger guns, grins, and then begins to walk back the direction she came.
CAS
Claire.
He puts as much authority and caring into his voice as he can and is successful in causing her to stop walking. She shakes her head back and forth.
CLAIRE
What?
She turns back to him with a challenging look in her eye.
You gonna say something like, “Oh, they just need some time”, or-- or “They still care about you”?
She scoffs.
Spare me the lecture, I already got it from Sam.
CAS smiles, solemnly.
CAS
I wouldn’t presume to speak on their behalf.
All I know, is that, the life that your father believed in for you, was that of a fantasy, and that it took immense, earth changing, tragedies for me to come to terms with the reality that God-- my father-- is not the man I wanted him to be.
Perhaps, yours needs a little more time to come to terms with that, or maybe he never will, and you and I will end up having more in common than we both initially thought.
CLAIRE’S anger crumbles.
CLAIRE
He thinks we’re in a cult--
CAS nods, already aware of this.
-- That God brought us all back, and we’re all crazy Satanists for saying, your dad is just some loser with, like, the OG God complex.
CAS'S voice is gentle.
CAS
I know...
CLAIRE
Like, how, though?!
How can he go from being all, like, anti-god, “we don’t say grace before we eat, anymore”, to, like--
She pitches her voice deeper.
-- “You don’t see what years of being around these people has done to your mind, Claire”.
CAS
Being resurrected is a confronting experience.
Each person comes to terms with it differently.
He suggests.
CLAIRE
Yeah, well, I just wish dearest Jimmy and sweet, little, delicate Amelia went about literally any way that didn’t involve them deciding that I’m gonna burn in hell for all eternity.
Shock then rage. CASTIEL notes his feelings, subconsciously.
CAS
They said that?
CLAIRE laughs.
CLAIRE
Did you not see the way they looked at Kaia?
Why else do you think she left with Donna, you didn’t think she loved being here-- warding out the ass-- after she’s had Jack in her head?
She knows how powerful he is, first hand.
She is terrified of your Dad, dude.
Just... left anyway to try give us a shot at being a family.
She scoffs.
Now it's e’en worse ‘cause I know my parents are out there praying like crazy, pro’a’lly telling your Dad everything…
Fuckin’ narcs.
CAS frowns.
CAS
If that’s the case, so far, they are only endangering themselves…
If you would, like, I could ask for Kaia and the others to be returned to the safety of the bunker?
Or, maybe there is a way the bunker's warding could be copied to Donna and Jody’s homes?
CLAIRE nods.
CLAIRE
Yeah, well, maybe the second one.
Things are weird with Kaia at the moment now, because of all of this shit, and I don’t know how she’d take bein’ zapped back into this zoo enclosure with me.
CAS scratches an itch on his head.
CAS
I understand.
Without warning, CLAIRE bounds onto him, her arms enveloping him into a tight hug. He jumps a little due to his surprising lack of foresight at her gesture, then with even slower reflexes, eventually determines he should hug her back and pulls his arms up from under hers, placing them over her shoulders, his hands on her back.
CLAIRE
Thank you, Cas.
She squeezes him a little tighter.
For being the closest thing to a parent that I ever got most my life.
CAS doesn’t know how to respond to this. He frantically searches his brain for the correct thing to say, the silence continues to grow, and he becomes increasingly more frustrated with himself.
CAS
I--
She releases him from the hug and grins at the perplexity he evidently displays on his face. She hits him once on the shoulder. A friendly gesture, used to break any tension. In this instance, CAS assumes she uses it as if to say, “I forgive you for your shock at hearing me say this, and everything is fine between us. Please let's not discuss this further”.
CLAIRE
Ask if we can get a swimming pool-- ooh, no, a spa--
She nods to herself with joy as her thoughts come together.
-- one of those combined swimming pools with a spa…
She begins to walk away again, and CAS smiles as he watches her go. She has such a brightness to her that, always reminds CAS of DEAN. He’s “chalked it up to being” due to their shared resilience, and the method they both use to continue to carve out space in their despair, for their inner child to play.
Oh, and an indoor bowling alley!
She points at him before she disappears, around the corner of the hallway, presumably headed toward her regular chair in the sun room.
INT - DEAN CAVE - LATE AFTERNOON
DEAN has spent a chunk of the day trying to keep himself busy. He decided he'd better get around to washing some of his dirty clothes and began sorting them into piles based on wash types. Once he'd done that, he figured he'd better add more to each wash and visited (still hungover) SAM, to see if he had anything he would like to get cleaned.
Once the loads were big enough he took all three baskets he'd filled, to the laundry and put on the first wash.
He then realized he had an hour to waste, and while already on a cleaning kick, he finally got around to cleaning the grout in the shower room. The silicone had gotten kinda yellow which had started to DEAN worry, could maybe be mold, so he got a scrubbing brush and some cleaning product, and got to work, breaking up the job each time his phone alarm went off to let him know to switch out another load into the washer, and the clothes from the washer, into the dryer.
It was after lunchtime when DEAN had finally finished the washing, he ran the shower, angling the head at the walls, and returned the last of SAM’S clothes to his room, dumping it, unfolded, on top of THE GIANT where he lay in bed, watching ASMR videos with his eyes drooping. DEAN had only cleaned one stall in the showers. One, and it took him over three hours. He officially decided to make it a regular job to couple with washing clothes. He'd have to get to the rest later. His back muscles ached in weird places already, and he knew it'd only get worse as time passed. Aches and pains weren't as easy to bounce back from the older he got, and it’d be pretty shitty if, as soon as this tornado came and went, if they had some kinda CHUCK emergency that DEAN wasn't in top shape for ‘cause he'd been too thorough, scrubbing the damn showers.
He then tried to make himself useful in the kitchen. He figured it’d be a good time to get one over on KAREN, what with her cooking and cleaning for everyone all the time, he could get in there nice and early to prepare something for everyone to eat for dinner. He made five quiches. A bunch of different types, and even one for SAMMY, which was a fun challenge, tasted not so bad all things considered… egg replacement powder and black salt goes a long way but that shit reeks of demon's. Had him on edge, and triple sniffing everything for the source of the sulfur smell, like, eighty times, just to make sure.
He delivered SAM a slice, which SAM grunted at and thanked DEAN, but told him he'd have to try eat some later ( still hungover!). DEAN put ‘em all in containers (except the slices he had for lunch) and put the containers in the fridge. After that, he ran outta ideas. He thought about maybe giving MIRACLE a wash, but that included going outside, and he started to freak that maybe the tornado would be ahead of schedule and whip ‘em both up to OZ or some shit.
The whole tornado thing was making DEAN antsy. He'd messaged MOM and DAD in a group chat to make sure they knew that they were welcome to come “bunker down” with them all at the MOL, sure to include a list of people still present, those missing, and a promise to ensure that everyone could just stick to separate areas and stay safe. Radio silence on the parents end so far, though. He knew, logically, that living in a bunker was obviously a huge win and that everyone would definitely be safer where they were. There was pretty much no way that all of the exits could be blocked with rubble, making them all get stuck underground, and even if they were, they had their new GET OUTTA JAIL FREE CARD. But still, he was running around, shaking like a damn chihuahua, just trying to make time pass.
MICK entered the kitchen when DEAN was doing the washing up. DEAN saw MICK with his own two eyes, but when he turned around again, just to reach back into the microwave, and wipe the roof of the thing, MICK grabbed a beer outta the fridge, and the sound of the fridge door closing made DEAN jump ‘bout a whole mile high.
DEAN threw the sponge back into the sink, laughed at himself, stretched out his neck, and got himself a damned beer.
Beers turned to whiskey, and then DEAN felt brave enough to have a go at FRANKS grappa, and well, here we are…
CLAIRE
How do you win every single time?
CLAIRE moans, her eyes are bloodshot. DEAN’S been working his way up to sayin’ something about it… instead he just shrugs.
DEAN
Donkey Kong kicks ass.
FRANK shakes his head from over the other end of the couch.
FRANK
I think it's the car…
He squints at the TV.
STEVIE
Well whatever the reason…
She pours a shot of the grappa.
Loser.
She leans over MAX and hands the shot glass to MICK.
MICK
I’m neva gonna ge’tha hang of this game, am I?
DEAN
What's the matter, Mick, there no Mario in the motherland?
MICK
Probably is.
Sheltered childhood.
He throws back the shot, and slams it on the coffee table. DEAN almost feels bad for the guy. Sure, he had a sheltered childhood too but, come on, that was a long time ago-- too long to not have had one single brush with the joy that is Mario Kart!
Nex’ round, le’s go.
ALICIA
I feel like this is kinda mean at this point, no?
She looks to everyone in hopes of a single agreement. DEAN considers agreeing, but then he remembers how much THE BRIT can truly drink.
MAX
Nah, he loves it.
Right, Mick?
MICK nods, slowly, drunkenly.
MICK
I love compu’er games.
He sighs.
I think i’m gonna geh so good at ‘em.
Next time we play, I'll murduh you awl.
He grins and does his best attempt at an EVIL LAUGH. Everyone turns from watching MICK... and enduring second-hand embarrassment, to noticing the door, over his shoulder open, as SAM shuffles into the room, and takes in the scene. DEAN turns back to the TV ignoring him as the next race begins. SAM shakes his head in bewilderment.
SAM
Uh, Dean, could I have a word with you out in the hallway?
DEAN sighs melodramatically, presses pause, and makes a show of dragging his ass outside behind his baby brother. The crowd jeers at him, knowing by SAM’S tone, that DEAN’S clearly done something wrong.
Once they’re far enough from the doorway, SAM turns abruptly, causing DEAN to stumble back, narrowly avoiding crashing head-on into the guy. So much for playing it cool; as soon as DEAN stood up, he’d realized just how hammered, he’d managed to get himself. DEAN blinks at SAM, squinting, trying to make his vision focus. SAM’S face is all puckered and self-righteous-- like the dude wasn't a billion times more shitfaced than DEAN, just a few hours ago.
DEAN
What you wanna do is have some of the mutt that did the biting, Sam.
Frank has tonnes of the stuff.
He points at his brother.
And it's better not to drink alone, ya know?
He nods to himself.
Not supposed to do that .
SAM
You literally just woke up from a coma, Dean.
A coma .
DEAN scoffs, then burps.
DEAN
Magic coma, Sam.
Magic .
He imitates the vexation in SAM’S voice, gaining a frustrated eye bulge and shake of the head.
Stop making that damn face!
Michael’s all juiced a--and Cas might even be strong enough to do a little healing, now, for all I know…
He shrugs, wildly.
SAM
I take it things with you and Cas are good, then.
SAM states in a bitchy-ass, sarcastic-ass way. DEAN’S a little humbled by this. He pretends he isn't, though, and raises a brow, popping out his bottom lip.
DEAN
Always are.
Why, he say somethin’?
SAM huffs out a breathy laugh, shaking his head, again.
SAM
I know you, Dean--
DEAN
--You don’t say?
SAM
--Before you go all kamikaze in whate’er way you manage to get your hands on.
Please consider the people that it’ll fuck with-- seein’ you get hurt.
Or-- or worse.
DEAN closes his eyes tight at the words, and staggers on his feet a bit, needing to see, just to stand still and remain upright.
You hearin’ me, Dean?
‘Cause I can’t--
He breathes in a huge, shaky breath.
You gotta keep fightin’, man.
We can get through this-- hell, all this is stuff-- it’s child's play, Dean.
He shrugs.
We’ve been through things that make all’a this look like-- nothing .
DEAN stares at his brother. He can hear his desperation. DEAN thinks it's kinda cute, like a puppy begging for a treat. He wishes he felt anything that desperately. What was it that, HUNGER, once said? That he’s dead inside. Pretty much hit the nail on the head with that one, huh.
DEAN
I’m just so damn tired, Sammy.
He slumps himself against the wall and crosses his arms. SAM nods.
SAM
I know.
Me too.
DEAN sniffs.
DEAN
You think it’ll ever actually end…
Honestly?
Don’t just rattle off some whole big speech, just to keep me on the board.
He squints at SAM. THE GIANT considers the question, honoring it, and attributing its virtue.
SAM
I think we have a shot.
He frowns at DEAN’S lack of reaction.
More than we’ve ever had before.
DEAN sighs, but then under the weight of his brother’s, gaze, bobs his head, regardless.
DEAN
Then, I guess, that’ll have to be good enough for me.
SAM’S eyes get all big and shiny.
I’ll make sure to keep an eye out for any rebar--
He grins at SAM’S wince.
--if you promise to kick out Ruby Tuesday, once we’ve sorted out that whole thing.
SAM laughs, incredulously.
SAM
I--
He shakes his head.
You keep an eye out for rebar, either way .
An’ as for Ruby-- We’ll figure out what to do with her, together .
DEAN tilts his head back and forth, weighing SAM’S counter.
DEAN
Fine.
Now get lost.
He grins. SAM splutters a shocked laugh.
SAM
‘Kay…?
DEAN
Good talk--
He slaps him on the shoulder.
-- but I gotta squash Claire in the flower cup.
Kid’s gettin’ a little cocky.
SAM rolls his eyes and starts to shuffle away.
-- and eat that damn, food I slaved away for hours making!
Got that damn, demon salt smell all stuck under my nails for you, Sammy.
DEAN’S rewarded a smile for that one, and as his brother rounds the hall, DEAN figures he’s finally drunk enough to pull out his phone…
He has a reply from JODY about how they’re all doing up in Happy Family Land. Apparently all good and safe-- which is a huge weight off. JODY asks how CLAIRE seems, because apparently, she’s stopped replying to JODY’S messages all together. Figures. DEAN sighs. He’s gonna need to have a big chat with the kid, and it's gonna suck .
For now, though, DEAN pulls up an old number. One, he never deleted from his phone, though he barely ever even used… Never really had a chance to. Things were crazy back then… Still are, but obviously, they’re crazy in a good way, now. In a way that makes SAM and DEAN have the classic awkward, “please don’t kill yourself anytime, soon”, conversation with a, “things are better than we’ve ever had it. Everyone we’ve ever lost is a live and kickin’”, fun and fresh twist. DEAN sighs, again.
“You’d hit me up if you were alive, right?”
He presses send before he has a chance to overthink it, then marches back to the entertainment. He gasps as he enters the room and clutches his chest. Everyone turns toward his spectacle.
DEAN
You guys played without me?
How could you?
CLAIRE
I deserve a chance at winning.
DEAN shakes his head.
DEAN
Tell you what--
He wanders around the couch and weaves himself into his place, plonking himself in, cozily, between CLAIRE and MAX.
-- When I win, Claire has to message Jody and fill her in on everything she’s kept a lid on since she’s not telling anyone else about it.
He narrows his eyes at CHARLIE, ignoring the daggers from CLAIRE.
Right?
CHARLIE shrugs.
CHARLIE
Leave me the hell out of this.
I don’t know shit about shit.
CLAIRE
O-ho my god.
Dean, I haven’t replied because she’s just been sending me pictures of her family, like, “Here’s us at the park”, “Here’s us making smoothies”, “Here’s a picture of my son holding a rock that looks like a love heart”.
What am I s’posed to say?
“Wow, Jody!
Here, I am photoshopped into them.
So, when we all look back on these cherished memories, I can pretend I’m a part of the family”!
DEAN pulls his lips in tight. He can’t really argue with that.
MAX
You didn’t… really… photoshop--
CLAIRE
--No!
She laughs.
I’m not that tragic.
DEAN
Fine, well, what about the-- the--
He widens his eyes at her and rolls his hands, hoping she might just know what he’s trying to say... She doesn't.
--the… drugs?
He winces as everyone in the room laughs at him.
Yeah, alright, laugh it up…
I just--
Would you--
Quit it!
An awkward silence falls.
You’re the youngest here.
I’m just keepin’ an eye on you, kid.
CLAIRE
I know.
I appreciate that, but it's just weed, Dean.
And it’s not like I’m smoking every day.
DEAN
But--
Bobby said--
CHARLIE bursts into laughter.
STEVIE
Charlie... may have played a tiny prank... on Bobby.
DEAN flops his head into his hands.
DEAN
Wait… you saying, there’s no hallucinogenic apocalypse plant?
Yeah...
As I was sayin' that out loud, I heard it.
CHARLIE starts howling now. She speaks through her laughter.
CHARLIE
He said he wanted some of my joint for him and his wife.
Said they could afford to be a little “bad” and I--
She giggles.
--I wasn't in the mood to find out what Bizarre’o-World-Bobby and his wife get up to when they’re stoned, so I said I wasn’t smoking weed.
CHARLIE lifts a shoulder.
I gave him a joint later, but I guess I never told him I was talking outta my ass.
DEAN shakes his head.
DEAN
Right.
So…
He turns to CLAIRE.
Guess, I owe you an apology.
She shrugs.
CLAIRE
Hey, I get it, dude.
I met your lineage.
I’d be concerned if I were you.
But, uh, I’m all good.
I even had a nice chat with Cas about everything earlier so…
She picks up her controller and shakes it in the air.
Can we get back to playing now?
Or… was this whole thing a tactic to delay the inevitable; me kicking your ass?
DEAN picks up his controller and grins, readying himself to watch MICK take another shot-- but his phone vibrates in his pocket. He raises a finger-- tellin’ everyone he’d be just a sec-- and fishes the phone out from his jeans, causing collective groans in disappointment.
“Of course I would, Dean.
You know me, Brother. 🫡”
DEAN chuckles, then takes a mouthful of his glass, oblivious to the fact that all eyes are on him… waiting patiently. He then places his drink back on the coffee table and goes to reply, but CLAIRE slaps his forearm and his phone falls onto his lap.
CLAIRE
I swear, if you pick that damn phone up, instead of your controler…
DEAN raises his hands in defense. BENNY’D have to wait till later for whatever-- obviously hilarious-- response, DEAN would come up with. DEAN picks up the controller-- stretches out his neck and presses start.
GAME ON.
END OF ACT THREE
Notes:
Sorry, she's short again.
In my flop era or whatever the kids are saying.
Chapter 21: "Bottle Episode" Part 4
Summary:
Bloody Mary.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
ACT FOUR
INT - CASTIEL’S ROOM - 7:31 PM.
CASTIEL sits cross-legged at the end of his bed, his eyes squeezed shut so tight that his nose wrinkles with the force of it, his teeth grind against one another. For a brief instant, his thoughts wander to DEAN. Nothing overly dramatic, simply a vision of THE MAN interrupting this very moment and making a crude joke. Something to the likes of how much CASTIEL looks as through he’s attempting to force a stubborn defecation.
He attempts to let the thought drift out of his mind, just as quickly as it appeared, however, the entire concept of how easily his thoughts are able to stray, becomes too frustrating, and it overwhelms him, so he gives up. He relaxes his face, his eyes opening, with a sigh.
DEAN has been avoiding him.
CAS thought that he may have been feeling overly sensitive about his conversation with DEAN over breakfast-- or lack their of-- and that THE ANGEL was merely overanalysing DEAN’S absence (They had up until quite recently been joined at the hip quite literally, amongst all other anatomy, post that, it had been hard to misplace THE MAN; sitting at his bedside every chance he had, pouring his grace into him in a frivolous attempt to wake him and ensure that he was not somehow regressing in his health). However, when CAS entered the lounge room earlier, and DEAN promptly made an excuse to leave, smelling of liquor and without sparing CAS a single glance, well, that had confirmed that it hadn’t only been a cruel fiction of his brain’s own devising.
CASTIEL had pushed DEAN too far when he’d tried, and failed, to expand on his thoughts prior to enacting the empty deal. It was all so confusing. CAS tried so hard not to think about it because that seemed to be a relatively successful angle that DEAN had demonstrated executing, and yet, it seemed DEAN would also poke and prod at CAS as if he wanted some kind of reaction-- some kind of follow-up-- a follow-up which CAS was more than desperate to grant him, if only he could figure out exactly how to do so without any sort of confrontation, or explanation, or exploration into the topic at hand.
CAS did consider that perhaps DEAN himself didn’t know. In fact, that would be the most logical answer… given everything he knew of THE MAN.
He sighed again. He wished he had some way of making this entire process less painful or awkward for the two of them, but alas, he would have to continue to be tumbled about at DEAN’S every whim, no matter how uncomfortable… or auspicious-- or conflicting-- said whim was. CASTIEL had looked DEAN WINCHESTER in the eye, told him that he was seen, and that he, CASTIEL, had no choice but to love every inch of who he was. The proverbial ball was now in DEAN’S court, and if DEAN decided to bounce that ball around, wash it clean, spin it on his finger-- as only a true “pro baller” could-- only to choose to hold the ball tight until the end of time, well, CAS would have to accept that as being DEAN’S prerogative. Surely, no rejection at all, would theoretically be far better than a prompt rejection?
None of this is truly relevant right now, however, and CAS blinks a number of times to attempt to gain focus again-- given that he’d let his mind wander, once more, whilst staring directly at THE CAMERA-- a feat that would definitely not elicit his desired result-- that of engaging in a conversation with THE BEING, via whatever subsonic frequency it was that they initially interacted on.
CASTIEL focuses on his aching on behalf of KELLY. He suspects the poor woman’s psyche is close to a breaking point. Honestly, had he not heard of heaven’s changes already from DEAN, he would consider gifting her a mercy and taking her to THE PLAYGROUND just as he had intended to do all those years ago, however, this time, with the only intention being purely so that she may be, once more, blissfully ignorant of what has become of JACK.
It had been hard to bear witness to her personal grief on the subject atop of his own. Once again, he had found himself in a hypocritical role-- where he once chastised DEAN for acting as the eternal optimist, whilst in reality THE MAN faced feelings of doubt, reluctance, and pessimism-- CASTIEL, now found himself taking up the moniker, churning out a seemingly endless supply of hope filled statements at KELLY, whilst she ignorantly chanted CAS'S very own fears at him, as if reading them from his own mind.
At least he wasn't alone, both SAM, and MICK had taken it upon themselves to attempt to pull KELLY from her room, and thus hopefully, a small step away from her all consuming depression. Eventually between the three of them they had inspired enough hope within her to move her to the library, where she could sporadically be found, scouring pages of lore (that CAS was fairly certain that both he and SAM would have read through at least once each), (perhaps even DEAN, may have skimmed at one point or another), as she searched for some sort of solution for the return of their son. It had become an undiscussed rule to remain quiet about this knowledge, however, when SAM shot CAS “a look” that expressed that it was probably a good thing to allow her to believe she had something to do that could help the seemingly grim reality of their situation.
CAS ran a hand over his mouth, and immediately after doing so was reminded that the action was not one that had been organically his, merely something he'd picked up from DEAN-- a fruitless attempt to release frustration. An act that he wouldn’t ever feel the need to do, if his grace had been at its highest capacity… His face was rough beneath his hand, prickling the soft skin, forcing him to remember that his facial hair had been slowly growing again-- Yet another sign of his low level of grace. He would need to shave soon. Perhaps purchase some more clothes, a tooth brush, deodorant, shampoo; various human hygiene and health products.
It was a strange concept; having his grace decline for no real, immediately obvious, reason. It was almost as if years of self-hatred for that angelic part of him; the loathing he felt for angel kind, and therefore, by association, himself-- Well, it was as if it had all finally caught up with him; it had eroded from within.
He had always considered himself an outcast, in both angel and human social circles alike, and yet when it came to the humans… he envied them. Beyond SAM and DEAN (obvious outliers in this), humans had endless free will. They could spend their short lives burning as brightly or as comfortable as they pleased. CASTIEL, though, he was created with power, and therefore he had a duty to use it to help those he could.
If only he was created to live a mediocre human life.
There would not be any guilt.
He often wondered if ANNA ever felt guilt for choosing to remove her grace and fall to earth. He so desperately dreamt of following her footsteps, to elect to sever his grace from himself and give in to his own ideal existence.
He could truly never do it, though; never would he leave humans without at least one angel fighting for them; without a single being with chanced upon power willing to listen to what they actually want? Leaving them to fight against, what would turn out to be, a truly evil God, at the source of all of their despair? His fate was sealed and sealed over and over, wrapping him tighter and tighter until he suffocated.
He had made a pretty terrible human once he was robbed of his grace in the past, so, if he were to ever have a chance to free himself of this burden of power, he imagined he would not truly fit out in the world, amongst the humans, anyway. This reminder brought him solace after his grace was returned to him; the pride he had gained for his life as STEVE the employee at GAS 'N' SIP had very quickly seemed no more than a child playing pretend, imagining a life and a future with endless possibilities.
CASTIEL’S stomach growls, and he is reminded that he should probably eat again soon. It had been a number of days since he had last done so, and he knew that he was in denial about that. It just seemed so undignified. He had tried to ease his way back into it; find joy in the consumption of the food… It seemed that each time he visited the kitchen to try and sample something-- anything-- even moderately tolerable-- somebody had been lurking in the vicinity.
Why did people feel the need to congregate in the kitchen? He understood the social aspect of cooking meals together and eating as a family, but with extra souls in the bunker it seemed impossible to find any time at all in which he could investigate the concept of food in peace. He had even tried to sneak into the fridge one night, regretfully finding himself cornered by MICHAEL, a look of pity and grating questions; as if there were a diagnosis available and a cure to be gifted.
Now, thankfully, with this encroaching tornado-- hidden, imperceptible to CASTIEL’S abysmal grace-- it seemed he would potentially have a chance at sneaking some of the excess food, stocked in the gun range, thanks to DEAN’S extensive paranoia.
CASTIEL’S phone lit up and reminded him that the tornado was currently above them and the potential for danger would not be over until seven in the morning, an encounter that has been growing in hours, each time his phone pings to warn him.
He unfolds his legs and skirts himself forward and off of his bed. The movement sends a waft of air to his nose that reminds him he now needs to add showering to the list of human behavior that he has to enact. He stands by his bed, eyes closed, listening, sensing, for any chance in the weather that may have occurred whilst he was busy attempting to converse with THE CAMERA. He opens his eyes.
Nothing seems to have changed.
Well, almost nothing; somebody now sits in the library, eating something from a ridged tin can, most likely with a spoon. They're slow and lazy with it, scraping the spoon against the sides, unintentionally, with each scoop. The person’s movements seem as though they’re pretty… drunk… It could be anybody. It seems that this weather has everyone uncomfortable, or feeling shut in and restless enough to be drinking today, or perhaps, the social aspect of drinking is too alluring to pass up with such a good excuse to have nowhere to be? The person could be anyone… however, that something, inside of CAS, that he can never truly rationalize with any scientific reasoning, believes he knows who the person is already… CASTIEL'S suspicions are confirmed once THE MAN clears his throat… it's DEAN.
Now, CAS isn’t certain what he should do. The library is a neutral area, the library is safe for him to enter without it being an affront on DEAN’S personal space, and if CAS were to remain hidden away in his own room, would DEAN believe that THE ANGEL, himself, was doing the avoiding? That would only escalate the issue… however, if he were to enter the library under the impression they may be able to talk (obviously not about anything that carries much weight) and DEAN was to make an excuse and leave again, would that be something CAS could simply accept, or would his frustration cause him to make things worse?
He knows that he is often ineffectual at conceal his emotions from DEAN, despite how hard he studies his own expressions in the mirror. He believes he has perfected keeping a detached, even somewhat clinical, expression, that replicates what used to come naturally to him in the past, and yet, it seems in practice, either DEAN has become far too familiar with him, and these looks, or that, when CAS finds himself in real, unimagined, moments of raw emotion, he is somehow, unable to grasp any true control over his own facial features.
The fro--
The fffffrrrrrrrrrrrr
The front door
THE FRONT DOOR OF THE BUNKER OPENS AND MARY WINCHESTER ENTERS.
INT. SAFE IN THE BUNKER - ???
Drunk as all hell, DEAN jumps up at the sound of the front door. His first thought is that somehow the wind is so damn strong that it’s smashed through the first door and into the airlock, then hit the second door and that's now burst open too. He staggers down the steps, in a jog, immediately relieved that he’s wrong and didn't just get swept up and into a huge whirlwind-- literally.
MARY
Dean--
She smiles at him warmly and begins to descend the staircase. Her boots clank against the metal.
I hope it’s okay that I’m here.
You haven’t checked your messages.
DEAN feels like his brain must be working in slo-mo… ‘cause of the booze? He pulls his phone from his pocket and frowns at it-- no unread messages. He glances up at her with squinty eyes.
DEAN
Uhh…?
CASTIEL walks into the MAPS ROOM. His hair is kinda floppy, and he’s trench-coatless-- practically naked.
CAS
Mary?
He exhales a soft, short breath that DEAN can hear from where he stands-- looking between the two-- tryin’ to make sense of things.
How are y-- did you just come in through the front door?
MARY chuckles as she reaches the ground and makes toward DEAN for a hug.
MARY
What, you try warding the place against asshole parents or something?
DEAN keeps his eyes on CAS-- practically speechless about this whole thing-- hoping CAS will pick up his brain's slack-- make things make sense.
Hi.
MARY smiles at DEAN and hugs him. He lifts his arms and hugs her back, then he steps back, places his hands on her shoulders, and licks his lips as he studies her face-- eyes narrow.
DEAN
But…
...Huh?
MICHAEL scares the fuck outta DEAN, he sticks his angelic landing beside CAS, and stares at MARY with a frown. MARY looks between all three men and laughs uncomfortably. Stepping away from DEAN completely now and placing her hands over her chest protectively.
MARY
Okay… seriously…
W-- what's going on?
MICHAEL
Did you drive here?
MARY nods.
MARY
Yeah, why?
Is that… not allowed?
DEAN
Tor… nado?
DEAN blinks slowly, then turns to the angels abruptly.
Chucknado…!?
CASTIEL shakes his head, staring at the ground in thought.
MICHAEL
There’s--
I… can’t sense it at all…
He studies CAS as if waiting for some kind of “okay”.
CAS
I thought it was just my-- my lack of grace but…
CAS shakes his head again. MARY watches on, trying to follow what the hell seems to be happening... so, kinda exactly like DEAN.
DEAN
So… why…?
DEAN throws his arms up. He needs another drink.
CAS
I don’t think it was… Chuck…
What would he gain from keeping us here?
DEAN angles his head and raises his brows, signaling for CAS to elaborate. He doesn't, instead, he goes back to staring at the ground. DEAN sighs a laugh in irritation.
MICHAEL
You suppose Jack--
CAS
No I--
I mean, but I--
I think…
He directs his gaze toward THE CAMERA.
They were in my room with me when Mary arrived, and then they immediately left me, even though they knew I was attempting to communicate…
All eyes are on THE CAMERA now.
It seems…
Odd--
DEAN
You didn’t get to chat?
CAS
Not yet…
CAS swallows, and looks at his feet like an embarrassed preschooler.
I still haven’t figured out how.
MARY
Did you try asking?
DEAN grins. Of course, he would have... that's step one. He looks to CAS... whose face’s lit up with a new hope… Damn idiot.
CASTIEL
You’re aware that I've been trying to contact you, right?
He tilts his head at THE CAMERA.
I would like to converse, and am unsure how to do so without Dean…
If you know how and would be interested in--
[◉°]
✎ ᝰ.ᐟ
-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈
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⣼⢧⡀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
⢻⡈⠻⣦⣀⣀⣀⣀⣀⠀⠀⠀⠀
⡿⠳⣤⣀⡀⠀⠀⠉⠉⠉⠳⢦⠀
⠻⣦⣀⠀⠀⠀⡴⠶⢦⡀⠀⠈⣿
⠀⠸⣍⣉⣁⡀⣇⠀⠀⠑⠀⢠⡿
⠀⠀⠀⠙⠷⠤⠿⠶⠦⠶⠞⠋ (੭◞ _◟)੭* ｡𓁺⋆ ⁺‧₊˚ 𓁺♡₊‧✧｡𓁺 ₊❤︎｡ .˳·˖𓁺✶˖✌︎︎·˳.꩜모⌨ᯤ⊂(˘ ³˘⊂)⚠︎༄.°ᨒ ོ ☼𖠋
▶︎
Hello Castiel.
˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗
“I… suppose I should have just tried, simply asking you, a lot earlier.”
I apologize. We find it difficult to attempt to make decisions on your behalf.
“Don’t apologize…. No offense intended, but I find that information comforting.”
ㅤ
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⣠⣶⣶⣶⣦⠀⠀
⠀⠀⣠⣤⣤⣄⣀⣾⣿⠟⠛⠻⢿⣷⠀
⢰⣿⡿⠛⠙⠻⣿⣿⠁⠀⠀⠀⣶⢿⡇
⢿⣿⣇⠀⠀⠀⠈⠏⠀⠀ No offense taken.
⠀⠻⣿⣷⣦⣤⣀⠀⠀⠀⠀⣾⡿⠃⠀
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠉⠉⠻⣿⣄⣴⣿⠟⠀⠀⠀
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⣿⡿⠟⠁⠀⠀⠀⠀
⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
What would you like to discuss?
We would not like to make any assumptions.
“We?”
I am not alone.
There are others who have watched, have read, will read.
I sometimes find it difficult to make decisions alone.
“Are you saying that you needed to form a consensus before choosing to heal Dean back in Point Pleasant? Is that how you justify your inaction?”
No.
Of course, I wanted to heal him.
We all want him to live a long and happy life, Castiel.
Consider that what we want, and what he wants, may differ at times.
“Dean want’s---
𓉸
↻
He--
↻
I--”
--No.
He wants to live.
I’m sorry for distressing you.
Dean is a complex being.
He, both, yearns for a very specific existence, and dreads the idea of obtaining it.
He was uncertain if he wanted to go on after his injury, and I would not like to force him to do something he is uncomfortable with, even if that means living.
Your anger toward my inaction is what spurred him on, finally choosing that he, indeed, wanted to live.
∘ ∘ ∘
Earlier, the two of you celebrated your autonomy over cold coffee.
Unfortunately, I have discovered our collective burden is that, at times, I may need to let the coffee cool naturally, to allow you to cherish the future feeling of its warmth.
“Is that what you are doing with Jack?
Are you keeping him from us in a misguided attempt to ensure he will be valued when he is finally returned?
You have so much power, why won't you just-- just free him!
And what about this supposed tornado?
Is that all you, as well?
Just another sham to add to your ever-growing list of lies?”
𓇢𓆸
I will explain as well as I can.
No metaphors, no lies.
Just truth.
It was prewritten long ago that this story would conclude with the death of either, Sam or Dean Winchester.
Chuck had been determined that one brother would kill the other, and after a grueling fight, the Winchesters obtained the illusion of free will, by escaping their fate.
This however was a falsehood as the true writers, the ones behind Chuck, were content with any ending in which at least one brother met their final death .
Dean’s death was predestined to be the end of the story.
Sam would eventually follow suit and join Dean upon a bridge in heaven.
With life, we have changed the ending.
We must fight death with life.
I truly could write Jack from Chuck at this very moment if that is what you wish--
˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗
-- however , I beg that you continue to trust me, when I tell you, that you are on the right path.
We are on the right path.
If I were to have Jack simply appear in his room after our conversation, we would not stand a chance against Chuck and the original writers .
Chuck was written to be far more powerful than I could ever be.
These writers were powerful enough to have Jack become smothered by Chuck in the first place.
They managed to locate Dean in a single alternate world out of an ever-growing number of them.
They were powerful and ruthless enough to be willing to, “end Dean’s story”, with him simply abandoned, back at square one in heaven.
So yes, I apologize if it was misguided, but I tried to keep you all out of danger and fabricated a reason in which I believed you would all elect to remain safely hidden behind the warding, tucked away, in the bunker.
“What--
That--
You can’t just keep us here forever!
We need to be able to leave-- to live!
We deserve free will!
This only delayed helping Jack!
How do we fix this?!
If you're willing to help, why not tell us what we should be doing?!”
Free will… You’re right, I have taken things too far…
I will do my best to write around you, should you stray from the path, to lead you back toward a happy ending.
But, that is the issue, Castiel.
I can keep you safe, or I can allow you to walk your own path.
…
I have various information I can share, to help yourself and others progress upon their own paths, if you wish?
Unfortunately, only you can decide if you will then notify those involved of the knowledge you have accumulated.
This information must remain gifted to you in such a way that it may be interpreted as you see fit.
Word of these details can often have an adverse effect, and result in the one taking an alternate path, therefore I urge you to consider that you may be better off not knowing.
Would you like to proceed?
No
➺ Yes ˎˊ˗
Very well…
જ⁀➴
The younger brother must destroy, for a red gem,
what he had once yearned to gift, diamond, two other women.
Alas, one life will be taken, then gifted, four witches, each one, once forsaken.
A call must be answered, a psychic revealed, then for hell to be over, blood must be spilled.
An angel betrayer, another, draws nearer, to an alternate world, and distorted mirror.
A decision for many, but taken alone, one house in rubble, one name, not a home.
How many lives left? How many have died? One final life taken, and given with pride.
∘ ∘ ∘
“Are you saying…?
↻
If--
I won’t allow a single death to occur.
I don’t care if you believe it is the only way…
I--
You’re wrong.
You have to be wrong.”
Castiel,
I am so sorry for the way you have been treated by your father.
I am sorry for the way you will continue to be treated by him.
I am sorry that he has to die.
“I mean--
∘ ∘ ∘
I can accept that, but this--
You seem to mention a lot about blood and harm.
You seem to be implying that something bad might happen to someone?”
I promise, with all of my heart, that my intentions are true.
We only wish for everybody to reach a happy ending, as safely as possible.
This is only the story as it stands in this precise moment.
You all have the power to change it at any time.
This is the story, the path, in which there is the best outcome for everyone involved.
“You--
You understand why I am reluctant to place my faith in you?
Help me to believe what you say--
↻
I get that you were responsible for bringing Dean and me back, but so was Chuck…
How do I know that you aren’t just… doing all of this, for the same twisted reason?
How can you prove to me that you truly won't harm any of the people I care about--
The people I love?”
Unfortunately, I don’t think I can.
Only time will prove this.
I promise going forward I will no longer attempt to keep you hidden.
You can choose to speak to me again at any time.
Simply ask.
If there is anything you need, I will try to find an answer for it.
I aim only to create answers for questions that were written before me.
I’m sorry, Cas.
We will be here.
We will keep you as safe as we can.
-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈
✎ᝰ.ᐟ
[◉°]
CASTIEL blinks at the camera, his eyes, coming into focus once more. He shakes his head. DEAN shrugs at him manically.
CAS
I suppose that was better than nothing...
He wanders over to the seat closest to him at the dining table, and sits, then rubs at his temples as if hes got a bad headache.
You might all want to take a seat...
CAS sighs.
END OF ACT FOUR.
Notes:
CRIMES CRIMES CRIMES.
Chapter 22: "Bottle Episode" Part 5
Summary:
We Happy Few
Chapter Text
ACT FIVE
INT. MAP ROOM - LATE.
SAM rubs circles into his temples.
DEAN
So--
He stands up from his place at the dining table, swaying a little on his feet, to dramatize his point.
--no hallucinogenic apocalypse plant, no tornado…
He scoffs.
Anyone else wanna admit they lied, now’d be the time for it…
He raises his eyebrows, at CASTIEL and both SAM and MARY make awkward eye contact as they pretend not to notice, DEAN’S lack of subtlety… At this point, SAM is honestly too exhausted and doesn't have the patience to figure out what half of DEAN'S words even mean.
After having all this new info dumped on him in one hit? Not only the whole, “CAS and CHEAT CODES” shit, but also MARY’S obvious lie about wanting “to give JOHN some space to bond with HENRY, SAMUEL and the other CAMPBELL’S”?
MARY used far too much eye contact when lying to them about it-- practically a WINCHESTER special by now.
Come to think of it, SAM notices that it’s actually the exact look that DEAN’S trying to attempt a bleary-eyed replica of, focused it's in its entirely, upon CAS. One that is daring whoever it's trained upon to try and argue with their version of the truth; one look, that's practically begging for a fight.
CAS, however, only seems to look confused via way of his response, to DEAN’S bait… but then again, confusion is seemingly CAS’S base state.…
SAM
I know what the first part of the prophecy means…
SAM sighs. EILEEN looks down from where she stands beside him, with a look of sympathy, and rubs at his shoulder. He closes his eyes for a split second, taken in by the feeling of it, then realizes, and with a bob of his throat, his eyes open. He tries a casual chuckle.
SAM’S glad that DEAN decided to gather everyone for a “CAS and THE CAMERA conversation re-enactment”… maybe even just a little bit too glad?
EILEEN had made her way into SAM'S room about an hour prior. It’d been the first time they’d really had a chance to hang out alone, what, with all the crazy shit that’d been going on. She even managed to convince SAM to show her how to use the pottery wheel that he'd received, (which he barely knew how to do, himself, but he gave her that disclaimer, and she stated that she still wanted to give it a go). His tutorial had pretty quickly turned into the two of ‘em, jokingly re-enacting the scene from GHOST… which then… well, it all accidentally became a lot less of a joke and before he knew it, SAM was staring at EILEEN'S, soft, slightly parted lips, as she leant in. He found himself closing the space between them and--- The door swung open-- doorknob to wall-- with a bang, and SAM'S drunken brother announced to them, that not only had MARY somehow made the treacherous journey through a damn tornado to the bunker, but also, (supposedly, more important) CAS was going to give a “Ted Talk”, and both SAM and EILEEN, were needed, “as VIP audience members”. SAM practically ran outta there with his tail between his legs, grateful for the distraction…
It's not like he didn't want to kiss her… obviously, he did...
It's more that he didn't know what would be worse for his mind; kissing her or not kissing her?
Ultimately, he'd do anything he could to stop the nightmares. The constant, repetitive, nightmares, every single time he closed his eyes.
Him with EILEEN, making love-- he hates the term, but it
is
truly, most accurate for how it starts off-- Then, the heat gets turned up, it gets kinda…
intense
… hair pulling, biting; nothing too crazy, but not something, he feels doesn't really fit with the way things are between him and EILEEN.
He can sense all that in his sleep, but he just doesn't seem to care, or he forgets, or something…
Then, it becomes violent. Tearing each other apart, biting into each other's bones, shards of them, crunching and cracking, as they splinter in their mouths, between teeth and cutting at their gums. All the while they both moan, gurgle, and begin to die... and they just... keep fucking...
Every time at this exact point, SAM suddenly realizes it has never actually been EILEEN… it's LUCIFER...
It always has been, and it always will be-- LUCIFER... but-- and, with a realization of pure horror, SAM finds that he just doesn't care.
He
really
,
truly does not care
. He just wants the release, in fact, he’s desperate for it. When the time comes, and he throws his head back, as he finally, forcefully ejaculates, and from the corner of his eye, that's when he sees him... That's when SAM finds, CHUCK…
When SAM sees him, each, and every time, he remembers that CHUCK was always there-- always watching, guiding LUCIFER'S movements, as he gorges himself on SAM’S innards, thrusting into his wounds, like twisted stigmata… Instead of being nailed to the cross, he's being nailed by the devil. He always has been, always will be, and all of it, always, has been, and will always be, done by god's hand.
Each morning SAM wakes with dirty sheets, and enough shame and guilt to make him, either, wanna end it all then and there, or finally, make a run for it. Instead, he just changes the sheets, again-- half awake, and forces himself to go for a jog. Reminding himself, he’s not alone in this shit-- He’s just gotta keep putting one foot in front of the other, until they all make it outta this mess… Once and for all.
SAM clears his throat. The room's eyes are on him. He forgot he'd spoken. He goes on to elaborate, but DEAN cuts in first.
DEAN
Sam.
DEAN’S voice isn't worried, it isn't angry, he's just letting SAM know a fact. His eyes dart down at SAM'S thumb. SAM’S eyes follow. Shit.
SAM had started this whole thing , nowadays, where he'd been using magic to heal his thumb… Guess it kinda got to a point where he forgot about it, and now heals it, and picks at it… all of it probably looks pretty insane, flashing purple, dripping blood, flashing purple again, over and over.
SAM
The, uh--
He tries to keep on topic, closing his eyes and letting a sad excuse for a laugh out. He heals himself one last time, then moves his hands under his ass, to physically stop himself from ripping at his skin.
--The ring.
He nods, and swallows.
Ruby's ring…
I’m pretty sure, it’s the first part…
Kinda thought of it earlier, but I guess I...
di’n’ want it to be real?
DEAN'S too drunk to keep up. He just looks around at everyone else, hoping someone will translate.
DEAN
Huh?
SAM
Red gem--
SAM tilts his head.
--Ruby.
DEAN squints.
Gift in diamond--
He sniffs.
DEAN
--Engagement ring!
DEAN points at him and grins like he's on a damn game show and just won a prize. DEAN’s literally always surprising SAM with how functional he is, while, balls to the wall, inebriated. DEAN then glances at CAS and mouths, “engagement ring” at him, emphasizing the point that he was the one who had figured it out first. CAS rolls his eyes.
CAS
So, we need to destroy Max’s ring in order to cure Ruby, is that what you're saying?
He directs his question at THE CAMERA.
DEAN
Okay, but then whattabout Alicia?
She just die?
EILEEN taps SAM’S shoulder and holds up two fingers.
EILEEN
Jess and…?
SAM inhales sharply and turns back to DEAN, completely ignoring EILEEN'S question. He can't even look at her.
SAM
Wait a second.
Cas, what did you say the second part of the prophecy was?
DEAN
--Hey, Sam, can we not with the p word?
DEAN turns to CAS.
--Actually, you know what?
He spreads his arms wide.
What happened to “Team Free Will”, huh?
He shrugs at SAM and CAS, wobbling around.
Enough of this prophecy, crap.
Why don't we just go back to trying to figure things out alone?
We’ve been doing alright with it so far, right?
SAM can't help the laugh that explodes from his lips. MARY jumps at the sound of it, and SAM makes a show of smiling at her; his way of apologizing. SAM, then, turns back to DEAN who waits impatiently, anger clearly bubbling up in his drunken stupor.
SAM
Dean…
I mean, come on.
SAM stretches his legs out straight, hooking one foot atop the other.
“We’ve been doing alright so far”?!
He shrugs, and feels his cheek muscles tighten in an angry smile.
We’ve been chasing our tails our whole damn life, man…
DEAN
Wow, Sam…
DEAN huffs and leans a hand on the dining table.
What happened to, “We have a shot?”
Thought you said you wouldn't lie to me ‘bout any of that, anymore?
SAM
I--
SAM tries to keep himself from rolling his eyes or raising his voice. He reminds himself that his brother's been drinking. He breathes.
I wa'n't lying.
He draws his words out like he's explaining to a fourth grader.
I think we do have a real shot at finally having all this be over, Dean.
And I think that this is how we do it.
We follow the path,
and we get to the end.
He sighs.
Finally.
DEAN rolls his eyes, then sticks out his tongue and blows air out in a raspberry, with an accompanying thumbs down.
DEAN
Are you kiddin’ me, Sam?
We “follow the path”?
He chuckles.
I'll pass.
Sounds a lot like givin’ up our free will, to me.
He pulls himself off the dining table and makes like he's walking toward the staircase, waving his hands as he speaks.
Why don't we just walk outta this damn bunker, right now, and tell Jack to beam me back up to the pearly gates, huh?
Skip all the foreplay?
SAM
Dean--
DEAN whirls back to where SAM sits calmly.
DEAN
I can’t believe you, man.
His voice is soft. Behind all the booze, he’s truly hurt.
You're really willing to give up one shitty author for whoever’s next in line, aren't you?
CAS
Dean--
DEAN throws his head back, dramatically, staring at the LED-lit ceiling.
DEAN
Oh, hell no--
He flops his head back down and spins to point at CAS.
You better keep that thought tucked in tight, behind those giant lips of yours--
CAS pills his lips into a thin line, whether in frustration or as trying to hide them, SAM can’t be sure.
SAM
--Dean, you're the one who was “team Friendly” from the jump---
DEAN
--Yeah.
When they were all…
two-for-one-joint-resurrections-and-tapped-kegs,
not…
asking me to tie my own marionette strings--
CAS looks like he’s got a migraine coming on.
CAS
--That's not what they're saying--
DEAN tips his head on an angle, a new sharpness to his gaze; a warning.
DEAN
--Cas…
MARY
--Dean.
MARY cuts in just in time, saving things from escalating even further. Her voice is gentle.
It’s okay.
She laughs, there's a warmth in her eyes as she studies DEAN.
It sounds to me like it's just… a guide, right, Cas?
That the thing--
Sorry-- being --
Maybe, just wants to give us a kind of shortcut to getting Jack back?
CAS
Exactly.
CAS rubs at the back of his neck, an awkward, human gesture, and just another thing to add to the ever-growing list that SAM pretends not to notice.
They're trying to help.
But sure...
We can go the long way around if you prefer.
CAS states sarcastically with narrowed eyes and a twitch of his head. He's clearly just about as sick of drunk DEAN, as SAM is.
DEAN
Whatever.
You can all--
He shimmies his hands.
--skip on down the game board,
like the good little pawns you are…
I-- on the other hand--
Will be using my own damn mind to come up with a way to get to the finish line.
Be bares his teeth in a smile, like a feral animal.
Don't anyone come cryin’ to me, when it turns out you've been played, by just another hack writer with a god complex!
And with that, he marches from the map room.
MARY
Dean…
SAM shakes his head, he knows he shouldn't be shocked, that he should sympathise but he can't bring himself to feel anything other than frustration at this point in time. He figures, maybe in the morning, maybe when DEAN'S a little more sober.
I'll try talking to him.
MARY follows after DEAN, toward his bedroom.
And then there were three.
SAM
So…
The witches.
SAM clears his throat.
I'm thinking it's Me, Rowena, Max, and Ruby.
We break the ring--
CAS
--Which results in the life taken--
CAS shoots SAM a quick, pathetic tug, at the corners of his mouth, in an attempt to signal that he's grateful for SAM'S cooperation, and their solidarity in having to deal with DEAN'S shit.
EILEEN
--Then she's gifted life, again.
EILEEN nods, and pauses, before adding.
Does that mean she’s one-up on me?
Or are we tied on one resurrection ‘cause last time she was brought back inhuman?
SAM snorts, and signs as he talks.
SAM
I'd think she has you beat…
Sorry.
He holds her gaze, unable to look away. Her smile wavers, growing more, and more, the longer he's held captive in her eyes. CAS coughs once, it sounds more like a sound bite than an actual human cough, and SAM manages to look away, toward CAS, with a grin.
CAS
Do you have any thoughts on the rest of it?
CAS fails to pretend to be nonchalant about the exchange that just transpired, eyes on the sleeve of his suit jacket.
SAM
Uh, not really…
Something about a betrayal from an angel though, right?
SAM squints, playfully.
…You're not, uh…
CAS
--Not so far, but, I'll be sure to keep you updated.
He smiles at SAM, seemingly proud of his joke.
SAM
Good to know.
He chuckles.
Also…
You said something about a psychic?
He frowns.
I think we should keep Patience and Missouri in the loop, right?
Maybe, give them an update on all this in case they have any more information?
CAS
Right…
CAS opens his mouth… then closes it.
SAM
You have more ideas?
SAM prompts.
CAS
I do… but I’m not sure that I like any of them…
SAM shrugs.
SAM
Great.
Let's hear it.
He pulls his legs back closer to the chair and leans forward.
CAS
Well, I was thinking…
That, well-- “The youngest blood must be spilled for hell to be over”-- it kind of, could be, suggested that there's the slight chance, that they maybe insinuating--
Poor guy's looking everywhere, but at SAM as he talks.
SAM
--Cas?
CAS
Maybe --
He stresses, finally making eye contact.
--Maybe you’re supposed to attempt the demon trials, again?
SAM huffs with a raise of his brows.
SAM
Doe'n’t that seem…
I ‘unno, kinda… redundant?
CAS looks at the table with a frown.
I mean, it's not like Rowena's letting demons loose for day trips topside just to reach havoc…
She's got strict deal policies--
No humans are getting tricked anymore…
That and, well, now that Lilith and Lucifer are both outta rotation, word is that all the demons are too scared to fall outta line.
CAS considers this. There’s an awkward silence while SAM waits for him to reply. EILEEN finally pulls up a chair and plants herself beside SAM. He gives her hand a quick squeeze, before clearing his throat and turning back toward CAS.
CAS
I'm… not sure, Sam.
THE ANGEL sighs.
It doesn't make any sense to me either, really.
You almost died the last time you attempted the demon trials.
If the goal is to help us all get to a point where we are able to live freely--
EILEEN
--Exactly!
You don't think that they'd really want you to do that, right?
THE MEN turn to her, with looks of uncertainty.
Go through all of that pain, all over again, and just…
Bring you back afterwards…
Like that’d make up for it all?
SAM shakes his head.
SAM
Yeah, I dunno…
I hadn't actually considered it…
CAS shifts uncomfortably in his chair, he eyes THE CAMERA with a frown.
CAS
I think that we can table that for now, either way.
I shouldn't have brought it up.
He exhales in a huff.
I-- I think that if they are asking that of you, well, even if we could bring Dean around by that point, I don't know if I’d still be so sure that following that path is the right option.
He shrugs.
I don't see how that could possibly help us to get Chuck out of Jack, anyway.
SAM
Yeah, but, I mean…
Does healing Ruby?
He pouts.
They're trying to help us be happy overall, right?
Maybe it's not all about getting Jack back.
Maybe they really believe we need to seal off hell once and for all to be able to live a happy life?
CAS
And you don't believe that’s something that needs to be considered?
SAM puffs out a breathy laugh.
SAM
I mean--
Of course, I do, eventually.
There's no guarantee that Rowena's gonna be in charge forever.
I just--
I guess, I kinda hoped we were all done with dying?
He chuckles.
I stopped the last trial last time because Dean convinced me to live…
I--
I thought we were all supposed to get to do all of this shit a-a-and finally…
Live our lives now…
A morose feeling washes over both SAM and CAS, as they let their minds take them elsewhere. EILEEN hums in thought, then slams her hand on the table, decisively.
EILEEN
Then I say, fuck it!
Don't do it.
She shrugs one shoulder, casually, with a smirk.
They said they’d write around you, right?
CAS’S eyes light back up. He nods at SAM, once, determined.
CAS
Eileen's right.
Enough’s enough.
They grin at one another.
If the time comes and the path leads us down that road, we change course.
Agreed?
EILEEN nods.
SAM
I-- Yeah…
Even to SAM, that sounds like a less-than-enthusiastic response. He tries again.
Okay.
He nods, his mind on the others, on DEAN.
If the shortcut asks for anyone to die for this, we veer.
He makes them both meet his eyes before moving on.
No exceptions.
EILEEN beams.
EILEEN
Good.
She pats SAM’S arm.
Stick to your own plans.
No more deaths, right?
That's what you told me, Dean had said, right?
SAM
R-Right.
He stutters, somehow feeling engulfed in this now, like, his words somehow mean the exact opposite of what he’s saying, and he’s walking into a trap, and signing his own death warrant. He feels his brain conk out as he dissociates, once more, staring blankly at the table.
No more deals, and no more Death.
He mutters.
CAS
--Apart from Chuck.
I realize I forgot to mention that part…
Apparently, we also still need to figure out another way to successfully kill God…
SAM nods.
SAM
As fun as that sounds.
He stands.
I think we should all get some sleep.
We can start at square one early and then go from there.
SAM stretches, a strange new feeling of hope exploding inside him. He's no longer stumbling along in the dark. He smiles at CAS and EILEEN, grateful to have them both in his life, happy to have people he loves beside him; he no longer feels like he's doing this alone.
Night, guys.
BLACKOUT
END OF ACT FIVE
TO BE CONTINUED...
Chapter 23: "Chapel Roam" part 1
Summary:
Unfinished Business.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
SUPERNATURAL
“Chapel Roam"
TEASER
THEN
Clip from 12.06, Celebrating The Life of Asa Fox
SAM
Did you know people tell stories about us?
DEAN
Yeah. Apparently, we're a little bit legendary.
(In the Flesh by Pink Floyd plays)
♪♪♪
Voiceover from 4.22 Lucifer Rising
CHUCK
You guys aren't supposed to be there. You're not in this story.
CASTIEL
Yeah, well… We're making it up as we go.
Clip from 1.01 pilot. DEAN runs downstairs with SAM, watching the fire spread throughout his family home.
♪
Clip from 2.21 All Hell Breaks Loose: Part One running towards SAM as SAM is stabbed in the back, DEAN pulls his hand off SAM’S back and the shot changes---
Voiceover from 14.20 Moriah.
CHUCK
This isn't how the story is supposed to end.
CAS
The story?
---SAM’S bloody hand lifting away from DEANS back from 15.20 Carry On.
♪
Voiceover from 14.20 Moriah continued.
DEAN
--Wait. What are you saying?
SAM
He's saying he's been playing us. This whole time. Our entire lives. Mom, Dad -- everything. This is all you because you wrote it all, right? Because -- Because what? Because we're your favorite show? Because we're part of your story? And every other bad thing we've been killing, been dying over -- (scoffs) where were you? Just sitting back and watching us suffer so we can do this over and over and over again -- fighting, losing people we love? When does it end?
DEAN
No, we're done talking. 'Cause this -- this isn't just a story. It's our lives!
♪ So ya thought ya might like to go to the show? ♪
Then OVERHEAD LIGHTS EXPLODE! Raining SPARKS over DEAN, BOBBY, the whole room. They shield themselves. Then they see-- AT THE FAR END OF THE ROOM. The ENTRANCE. SWINGS OPEN by itself. Slow. Revealing-- a MAN. CASTIEL. He heads in, walking through a curtain of FALLING SPARKS. It's a hell of an entrance.
From 5.16 Dark Side of the Moon, The TV behind DEAN flares to life, showing a grainy black and white image of CASTIEL.
From 5.22 Swan Song, CHUCK sits behind a computer keyboard. A full glass and near empty bottle of cheap whiskey beside him.
From THE WINCHESTERS 01.13 Hey, That's No Way to Say Goodbye JACK--- wearing a white linen suit… then CHUCK--- from 15.19 Inherit the Earth also wearing a white linen suit
Clip from 16.01 Fuck. DEAN stands frozen against SAM’S wall, staring at the CAMERA, as he waits… JACK walks past SAM and places a hand on the door handle. JACK opens the door and--- SAM and DEAN find themselves back in the bunker. They BOTH slowly draw their gaze toward THE CAMERA.
♪ To feel the warm thrill of confusion, That space cadet glow ♪
Voiceover from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together.
ROWENA
What's this?!
Dean Winchester, finally back in the land of the living?
And not only that, but carrying along the angel Castiel, who, also, up until now, was known to be deceased?
Clip from 16.03 Mothman. DEAN grins, licks his lips, and looks over at CAS who breathes deeply, and with brows low, a smile starts to creep up into his mouth. DEAN continues to stare at CAS as MELODY rubs her thumb against their hand.
♪ Tell me, is something eluding you, sunshine? Is this not what you expected to see? ♪
Clip from 16.04 Bottle Episode.
DEAN
Snuck out on me while I slept, huh?
Real classy.
DEAN looks up at CAS with a smirk. CAS grins in return.
CAS
I was worried when I couldn't find you in your regular spot in the infirmary.
He walks over to the coffee pot and pours himself a mug of cold coffee.
I'm glad you finally became bored enough to decide to wake up.
DEAN lets out a single sarcastic laugh.
♪ You wanna find out what's behind these cold eyes, you'll just have to claw your way through this disguise ♪
Clip from 16.03 Mothman. JOHN slams a fist onto the table, and SAM and DEAN both jump at the outburst. MARY clears her throat and looks around at the other tables. Miraculously, only a few people are staring. JOHN clears his throat and takes a beat to breathe with his eyes closed.
Voiceover from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together.
JOHN
(Through the phone)
Let me have at least a second alone with your mother before you up and steal her away from me.
♪
Clip from 16.03 Mothman. JOHN looks at DEAN like he’s something stuck to the bottom of his tactical boot but DEAN just shrugs and smiles at CAS. SAM waves jerkily at the table, then leads a cackling CLAIRE toward the exit gently by her arm. DEAN nods at his mom, who looks truly distressed, and he forces himself to turn away. CAS joins him silently as he weaves his way around the other tables and out of the exit.
Voiceover from 16.04 Bottle Episode.
MARY
Dean--
I hope it’s okay that I’m here.
Clip from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together.
JODY
So we gotta figure out a way for them to write us some kinda help?
♪ Lights! ♪
Clip from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together.
DEAN
No more sacrificing ourselves because there’s no other option.
No more two-dollar mystery deals.
Clip from 16.03 Mothman.
♪
SAM
I heard everything you guys said earlier.
He looks between RUBY and LILITH.
You get one shot-- one-- to get off script… if you want it.
[...]
RUBY
Heal me!
♪ Action! ♪
Clip from 16.04 Bottle Episode.
SAM
I shoulda never…
He blinks and a tear rolls down his cheek. He swipes it away, angrily, then grits his teeth and turns to peer up at DEAN.
You told me to say it was okay…
You asked me to let you die and I--
♪
Clip from 16.04 Bottle Episode. CAS goes to take another drink but lowers the mug at the last second.
CAS
Have you tried speaking to him properly about your death yet?
♪ Turn on the sound effects ♪
Montage begins.
Clip from 16.01 Fuck. SAM stares down at his hands and starts picking at a dry bit of skin peeling from his thumb. The dry skin is surrounded by a scab, and he pulls away the skin, causing the area to start to bleed. He then shoves both hands into his jacket pockets.
Clip from 16.01. SAM stares at his brother, his eyes glazed over as he picks at the edge of the bandaid on his thumb absentmindedly and speaks in a daze.
Clip from 16.01. SAM'S face is pained, and he absent-mindedly picks at his thumb, he’s removed his bandaid completely now and has started in on the freshly healed patch of skin around the other scab.
Clip from 16.02 Putting The Band Back Together. DEAN glances at SAM again, noting the way he picks at the skin on his thumb.
Clip from 16.02. SAM absent-mindedly picks at his thumb, hissing when he rips at the scab, causing it to start to bleed again.
Clip from 16.02. SAM, picks at his thumb as his eyes unfocus, He lowers his hand and blood drips in a splatter on the floor by his shoes.
Clip from 16.03 Mothman. SAM sighs and glances down at his thumb. A mangled mess of a thing, with a twisted bandage covering only the worst of the damage. He's managed to pick all around and under it, anyway.
Clip from 16.04 Bottle Episode. SAM using magic to heal his thumb. Flashing purple, dripping blood, flashing purple again, over and over.
♪
Voiceover from 16.04 Bottle Episode.
DEAN
kind of--
I mean, I told him that I'd tell him?
Does that count?
♪ Drop it, Drop it on ‘em, Drop it on them! ♪
END OF TEASER
ACT ONE.
INT. SOMEWHERE IN SPAIN - NIGHT.
WE open on long slender fingers tapping on a computer keyboard. The soft clicking of the keys transcribes a discordant tune with an enthusiastic, though illegible rhythm.
JACK'S face is scrunched into an unfamiliar form as he raps away at the keys with feverish abandon. WE pan out, and angle to view over his shoulder. A script is being formed upon a document on screen. What WE zoom in to view, however, is JACK’S reflection in the computer screen. His line of sight finds THE CAMERA with surprise, then a smile slowly, subtly, rises upon his face. He tries unsuccessfully to hide it as his reflection turns back toward itself. The JACK sitting in front of the computer’s face changes, as if a fog has lifted, and we are now able to see CHUCK, continuing to type, stopping occasionally to backspace and reword his newest masterpiece. CHUCK does a double take at his reflection.
CHUCK
See, now you're getting on board, huh?
I knew it’d only be a matter of time.
JACK-- in the computer’s reflection-- frowns, but CHUCK is too lost in his own imagination to notice how inaccurate his understanding of the situation, truly is.
Just Gramps and--
No, wait--
Does Gramps seem a little… ehh--
He waves his hand by his head.
--Pop-pop… Do I like pop-pop?
Whatever--
We'll work shop it.
Point is--
I knew that this whole writing thing would be the key to a real bonding experience between the two of us.
You just needed to see the good it can do!
He finally stops his monologuing, and his eyes meet JACK'S. Aware now that JACK stares at him with open disdain.
What?
JACK
How…
Is any of this…
Doing good?
JACK’S anger has grown over the years. It’s become a calm, chilling, thing now. He certainly isn't a deceptively large toddler, simply throwing a tantrum, anymore. CHUCK chuckles pathetically, almost embarrassed-- it’s as if he still genuinely wants JACK to like him.
CHUCK
I mean--
C’mon?
The whole plot is-is teaching them a lesson!
JACK
A lesson they don't need to be taught.
CHUCK leans back in his chair.
CHUCK
--Jack, we've been through this one, buddy.
We’re God--
We can’t exactly let random humans pull one over on us…
He sighs, far away for a moment, almost reminiscing on recent events. The mystery of how all of this has come to pass without his knowledge appears to excite him.
Not even the interesting ones.
He clears his throat, mentally shaking himself, then leans back in toward the computer and mouths his own script, quietly.
JACK
Pull-- how many over on… you?
JACK grins a toothy smile, proud of his own defiance.
CHUCK
--Yeah, real cute.
He huffs, a poor attempt at a cocky laugh.
Once, I figure out how you're doing all this, I swear to-- well--
to me--
JACK’S smile doesn't even waiver.
--You're gonna be sorry!
THE COMPUTER FLASHES WHITE, THEN BLUE, AN ERROR NOTICE IS DISPLAYED, THEN THE WHOLE COMPUTER POWERS DOWN.
JACK’S giggles ring out like a bell, while CHUCK scrambles, attempting frantically to turn the computer back on, completely perplexed by the sudden error.
CHUCK
Damn it…
What the hell?
He smacks the monitor.
Stupid piece of--
I didn’t even get to save it!
How am I supposed to--
JACK looks down the lens of THE CAMERA, and CHUCK freezes mid-movement.
…Do you sense that?
CHUCK turns and looks around, vaguely searching the area of THE CAMERA and WE…
DIP THE HELL OUTTA THERE.
INT. MOL - DAY
DEAN finally finds SAM in the bunker's supply room. He doesn't look up from the drawers he's rummaging in while DEAN shuffles himself over toward him. DEAN groans, and leans against the wall, making sure he's in SAM'S peripheral, closing his eyes, and resting his head against the bricks. DEAN groans, again, opening one eye a crack to peek at his brother. SAM smiles bitterly, before sighing and turning to face DEAN, giving him the attention he so obviously craves.
SAM
Yes?
DEAN springs his eyes open, pulling his head back up, off the wall, to look at his brother with feigned indifference.
DEAN
Oh, hey, Sam.
Glad I caught you while you're not busy.
SAM rolls his eyes. DEAN stretches out his arms, in front of him, lacing his fingers and cracking his knuckles.
SAM
Yeah, me too, can't imagine how annoying that’d be…
DEAN flashes him his trademark grin. SAM closes the draw, turns toward his brother, and crosses his arms.
Whaddyou want, Dean?
DEAN raises his hands in defense.
DEAN
Hey, relax, man.
I just wanted to come and let you know that I, uh--
Well, I just think I may have overindulged and overreacted just a tad last night and--
SAM scoffs.
SAM
--Wow, ya think?
DEAN
Yeah, well, I mean I’m not actually apologizing or anythin’, so don't get too comfortable all the way there up on that horse, Sammy.
SAM shakes his head in disbelief, and DEAN holds his hands up again, trying to take some kinda control of the situation.
I'm just sayin’, I may have taken some shit from the whole Chuck thing a-and applied it to where it maybe didn't have to be applied.
DEAN opens his arms outward. SAM nods, tongue smacking his teeth.
SAM
I get that it's all…
He sighs.
A lot…
But… dude…
He lets the sentence end there. DEAN nods.
DEAN
I know.
And-- well, I just wanted to come and--
He shrugs.
You have my permission--
He claps SAM’S shoulder
You, Cas, Mom--
I trust you guys, so if you think this is the right call…
DEAN nods, once.
I'm all in.
SAM’S face morphs over the course of DEAN’S explanation, becoming more and more pissed until it reaches a state of ultimate bitchy-ass smugness. SAM shakes his head and laughs.
SAM
Thank you…
So, so, much for your permission, Dean.
He places his hand on DEAN’S shoulder now, his voice drenched with fuckin’ sarcasm. DEAN bats his hand away with a huff.
You're a bit late, though, dude.
SAM laughs at DEAN'S slack-jawed shock.
We're already up to part two of the proffff--
DEAN'S wide-eyed, raised brow at the term makes SAM draw out the “f” with a chuckle, small bursts of air as his top teeth sit upon his bottom lip.
--the shortcut.
He amends, eventually.
Ruby's healed, rings busted into a zillion pieces, and Alicia's back to skin and bone.
DEAN pulls his mouth thin and nods.
DEAN
Any hitches?
SAM
Not one.
You shoulda woken up earlier.
Coulda seen the whole thing for yourself.
DEAN shrugs.
DEAN
Honestly, I was probably awake,
just puking my guts up.
He grins triumphantly, and SAM shakes his head with another mix of a scoff and a laugh.
You said phase two?
DEAN opens the drawer SAM was just rummaging in and peers into it with a jutted bottom lip.
SAM
Yeah.
SAM sighs and pulls out another drawer off to the side.
Answer the call… something about a psychic?
Figured it was about Patience or Missouri…
He rummages in the drawer and DEAN slides his one shut, his interest in it lost now. DEAN leans over SAM shoulder to see inside SAM’S drawer instead. SAM sighs, clearly coming up empty; not finding what he’s after, shutting the drawer and turning back to DEAN.
Got a phone call from Magda this morning.
Turns out, she's alive and well.
DEAN squints at his brother, his eyes roam the room, his mouth miming MAGDA’S name as he thinks.
Magda… the psychic…
DEAN shrugs and shakes his head, still at a loss.
Dude…
The girl who Ketch killed?
The one who's whole family was crazy off-the-grid religious, kept her in the basement--
DEAN
Oh!
He clicks his fingers.
Mom went all Jonestown--
Thought the daughter was the devil, but turned out she’s just, like, your demonic little sister?
SAM frowns.
SAM
Sure.
Right.
Her.
He turns and opens another drawer.
DEAN
I'm guessing she wasn't just calling for a catch-up and your top five juice cleanse recommendations?
SAM grunts in acknowledgment of the joke as he pulls out a big zip lock bag of what he’s, apparently, been looking for, brandishing it in the air like a trophy.
The hell is that, anyway?
SAM grins.
SAM
Australian salt bush.
You can eat it.
Wards off…
basically, everything.
DEAN nods slowly.
DEAN
Right…
He rearranges his footing, and squints; a sign there's a storm of anger beginning to brew within him.
And we need it for…?
SAM
Yeah, about that…
DEAN'S chin meets his chest as his head lolls downward.
DEAN
Why do I get the feeling you're about to ruin my already shitty day?
SAM
You don't have to like it--
But, uh, well--
SAM rushes through the last of the words.
Cas and I are gonna head down to Topeka, where Magda’s was staying with her uncle.
DEAN
--Was?
SAM sighs. DEAN is quick to notice the details, that SAM knows will cause a stir.
SAM
Yeah.
She found him last night.
SAM fishes his phone outta his pocket and opens up an app, then hands it to DEAN.
Decapitated.
No forced entry.
Not the first.
DEAN skims the article with a frown, then evidently reads the part SAM’S been waiting for, he exhales a single laugh, then licks at his bottom lip, a smug grin, showing his teeth.
DEAN
A church group?
You lost your damn mind?
He tosses SAM’S phone on the table with a flick of his wrist, letting it scatter the papers that had been neatly piled.
SAM
You don't have to come.
DEAN laughs again, more urgently this time.
DEAN
Oh, don't I?
Great, because this is about my general dislike for organized religion, not--
He shrugs one shoulder, carelessly.
I don't know--
Choosing to walk into the bullseye, as number one most wanted on God's hit list?
He stares at SAM with wild eyes.
SAM
You di’n' even read the whole article, huh?
DEAN
Oh, I bet the by line had some real zingers!
Sorry, I missed that!
SAM shakes his head, calmly.
SAM
Whatever.
You can stay here.
Cas and I have it handled.
Absent-mindedly, SAM throws up the bag of dried leaves and catches it, one-handed, over and over; small little bounces.
It'll actually be a lot less complicated this way.
DEAN
You think I'm letting you--
There's a loud crunching of the plastic as SAM snatches the salt-bush with two hands, gripping it mid-throw.
SAM
--What are you gonna do, Dean?
You gonna lock us up?
SAM gestures to the gauge area of the bunker around him. He smiles bitterly.
Fake a tornado to keep us from leaving?
SAM takes a deep breath, calming his frustration.
We have it sorted.
Anything goes south we just get zapped back here or-or worst case scenario we get Cheat Codes to bring us back from upstairs.
DEAN
You realize how pointless this is?
You'll walk in the door a-a-and pow!--
He punches a fist into his open hand.
Your asses are brought right back here ‘cause some freakin’ nun mentioned Chuck in their opening line.
SAM throws his hand up in feverish determination.
SAM
We gotta try!
It's clearly a case!--
DEAN
--It's clearly a trap!!!--
DEAN roars.
SAM
--Then we see that through, Dean!
It's in the-the shortcut!
DEAN
Fuck the shortcut!
SAM
And just let these people die?!
DEAN
Yes!
SAM takes a physical step back. He eyes his brother like he’s looking at a damn alien.
SAM
You don’t mean that.
DEAN doesn't even take a beat.
DEAN
--Like hell I don't.
If it's you two versus some strangers?
That trolley problem ain't exactly a tough call!
SAM smiles again, and shakes his head with perplexity.
SAM
What is the worst that could possibly go wrong, Dean?
Honestly.
Stop and think about it for a seco--
DEAN
--Oh, I've thought about it, alright.
He paces by the rows of apothecary drawers.
You don't remember a plucky little demon by the name of Lilith, or her good pal Lucifer, by chance, do you?
He stops walking to get a good look at SAM’S face, now.
Well, apparently they remembered that they were dust and that to dust they shall return?!
SAM
Don't you think that if Chuck could do that to us, he would have done it by now?
SAM becomes lost in his head, pullin’ out bizzaro insecurities as a means for calmin’ DEAN’S nerves.
And I dunno?
The whole thing kinda makes me think I was wrong about it all…
Like, maybe, it just felt like I ended ‘em once and for all.
Maybe we walk into the church and they’re ready an’ waiting.
DEAN’S face is screwed up more than he is, he opens his mouth to ask where all this is suddenly coming from, but SAM gets in first.
Doe’n’t matter...
You're just gonna have to figure out a way to be okay with it, I guess.
SAM pops out his lower lip with a half-hearted shrug.
Cause’ we're going
And you can't stop us…
DEAN’S brows shoot up, and he’s pacing again, his mind racing as he listens to SAM’S insane determination to get himself killed, or worse, and simultaneously tries to rack his brain for a way to get everything to calm the fuck down so he can think them outta all this.
I believe in this Dean.
It feels right, like, I can feel it in my bones that this-- all of this-- It's gonna work if we just trust the process.
DEAN stops again. He smiles at his brother like a maniac. He’s shaking with anger and fear and he doesn't even wanna think about the fact that SAM’S somehow managed to drag CAS into all this. The words fall outta his mouth like they were lined up and ready for him, like they've been sitting there waiting for their perfect opportunity to be spoken, since the moment they had that damn fuckin’ attempt at a normal family dinner.
DEAN
Dad was right--
He's high on the feeling of letting the words free.
It's a miracle they gave someone like you a full ride to Stanford.
He runs his hands up and down in front of where SAM stands, eyes alight with a feeling of power, of control over something.
You can't even tell when you bent over, begging to be ass reamed.
DEAN looks over SAM in disgust. Head to toe-- makes a real show of it, and SAM’S eyes fill with hurt. SAM nods once, then twice, inhales with shakey effort, before finally, he speaks.
SAM
We're heading out soon if you change your mind--
DEAN
--Not likely but, hey, good luck.
You guys are really gonna need it.
Then, DEAN marches from the room, as quickly as he fuckin’ can, heading toward his bedroom, hoping like crazy he can get there without bumpin’ into anyone on the way, and especially without balling his damn eyes from their sockets before he makes it safely behind the fucking door.
END OF ACT ONE
Notes:
bleep bloop so sorry she's so short.
Love you guys!
Chapter Text
INT. MOL HALLWAY - 1:39 PM
SAM raps his knuckles three times against CAS'S bedroom door.
CAS
Come in!
SAM opens the door to find CAS sitting still on the edge of his unmade bed. THE ANGEL'S duffle, packed and placed on the floor beside him. SAM squints at him.
SAM
Uhh…
You all good… to go head out?
CAS leans over and picks up the bag.
CAS
Yes.
I've been waiting for you…
His tone, somewhat irritated. SAM frowns.
SAM
Just, like, sitting there… waiting?
CAS nods at this.
CAS
Yeah, why?
SAM
N-No reason, I guess.
You didn't wanna, read something or-or watch TV or--
CAS stares blankly at SAM, and SAM shakes his head, completely baffled.
Yeah, guess not.
He clears his throat.
I'm sorry I kept you waiting?
He shakes his head and smirks fondly at CAS, who nods curtly, appeased by the apology.
CAS
And Dean, is he…?
SAM rolls his eyes.
SAM
Did you really expect him to come?
CAS sighs.
CAS
I suppose I had... hoped.
Eileen is she--
SAM
--Still pissed?
Yeah.
He nods, tight-lipped. CAS mirrors a slow nod in reply.
CAS
Great.
Well, let's go--
DEAN slides through CAS’S door, ducking under SAM'S armpit where it rests against the frame, causing SAM to jump about a mile high. DEAN'S eyes are red around his waterline and his lashes are clumped together like they’ve stuck that way... with the help of some salty ass tears.
DEAN
Hey, you two!
Headed out?
SAM shakes his head, unamused.
CAS
Yes…
CAS grunts, wearily.
DEAN
C'mon, Cas.
You're the one with the superpower senses, aren't ya?
He grins and points at him, the twinkle in his eye, barely managing to mask his desperation.
Why haven't you let Sammy, here, know how bad of an idea this is?
Maybe, he'll actually listen when you say it?
The corners of his smile fade, and his eyes widen as he speaks. SAM'S can't help when his face unclenches with pity.
SAM
Dean…
CAS
... I'm sorry, Dean.
DEAN struggles to hide his reaction to the verbal slap of these words. CAS rushes on, eyes anywhere but on DEAN.
I know you see this as another one of Chuck's plots.
I can see how you would see it that way, but I really don't believe that it is.
DEAN shakes his head as CAS continues, having decided to direct the remainder of his words to SAM.
This isn't another apocalyptic event in which one of us must sacrifice ourselves for the “greater good”.
It's a case.
DEAN scoffs.
It's just a case--
DEAN
--Since when has a case ever been just a case?!
CAS peeks a glance at DEAN, then, immediately drops his gaze to his feet, as if his resolve may alone be swayed by DEAN'S plainly illustrated despair.
SAM
We've taken every single possible precaution, Dean!
If anything's off we have an out--
DEAN
Please, Sammy, I--
He laughs.
I'm begging you not to go through with this--
DEAN can feel that the look of complete stubborn asshole ain't moving from SAM'S face. He turns to CAS.
I-- Cas?
THE ANGEL won't look up from his feet. DEAN'S, embarrassing as shit, shaky hand, reaches out to cup CAS'S jaw. Gently guiding THE ANGEL to meet his eyes. CAS swallows, his eyebrows raised in the middle.
Please.
Then, CAS steps backward, causing DEAN’S hand to hang empty in the air for a moment, as his lips part in shock. DEAN’S brows fall with his arm, and he pulls his mouth closed, tight. SAM clears his throat.
SAM
Dean, I-- I'm sorry, I really am.
He shugs, empathetically.
But, you're wrong about this.
SAM looks at THE CAMERA and nods. He turns to CAS who nods in reply. DEAN’S voice cracks with emotion.
DEAN
Sammy--
SAM
(To THE CAMERA)
--You can take us there now.
DEAN SPINS TO GLARE AT THE CAMERA, FIRE WILDLY BURNING BEHIND HIS EYES.
DEAN
I swear, if you--
SAM AND CAS DISAPPEAR FROM CAS'S ROOM TO MAGDA’S HOTEL ROOM.
DEAN’S face crumbles. He grabs at his jacket by his chest and swallows dryly, before pulling the entire damned thing off, scrunching it up and throwing it into a ball at his feet.
Anything-- Anything at all-- happens to them--
He gasps out between panting breaths.
RUBY
Yikes.
DEAN closes his eyes, and leans over, hands to knees, in a desperate attempt to breathe, ignoring the former demon as she makes her way into CASTIEL'S room, from where she previously stood eavesdropping in the hallway. She looks around the room with curiosity, scoping out each detail.
DEAN
Thought you were supposed to be human again?
He doesn't look up.
RUBY
Who says, I'm not?
DEAN takes a beat, grins to himself and shakes his head.
DEAN
Don't you think the most humane thing to do would be to leave the building, and give both of my brothers a damned break?
RUBY laughs, before studying DEAN, as curiously as she had once been searching the room around them.
RUBY
I never said I was a good human.
DEAN huffs and pumps his brows, his eyes still closed, as he continues to try to breathe.
Self-preservation.
I was God's favourite target practice before the reconstructive soul surgery, what do you think he’s gonna wanna do with me now I'm all--
She dances her hand vaguely around her torso.
-- Blegh… Emotions, feelings…?
DEAN opens his eyes, nods, once, twice, and on his third uptake, he pulls himself upward, bringing himself back to an upright position to finally look at her.
DEAN
So, you think we're just gonna let you have a sleepover?
He narrows his eyes.
What-- you-- you managed to con some blood outta Sammy, and now you’re waitin’ ‘round thinkin’ we’re gonna eventually wanna add you to the group chat, that it?
Ruby's bright red, puckered smile falters. She laughs.
RUBY
It's not exactly like I've come here on my knees begging you for forgiveness, Dean.
I know what I've done.
I know the role I played in all of this.
I’m just hoping you’ll be kind enough not to slit my throat in my sleep.
DEAN
Give me one reason why I shou--
RUBY
Your brothers--
You just said it?
They both went to a hell of a lot of effort to make sure I made it this far--
DEAN gawks and opens his mouth to cut her off-- but she continues, louder.
-- Look, I'm no idiot, Dean.
I know, they didn't do any of it for me.
She rolls her eyes.
I know I didn't deserve any mercy.
I know I will never be able to make up for--
She laughs, mechanically.
--all of the shit that I've done.
I’m just here to help out in any way I can until all of this is over--
But trust me, as soon as it is, I’ll be outta your hair.
Then you, Adam, and Sammy--
Well, none of you guys will ever have to see me again.
DEAN shakes his head and his lips tremble, bitterly.
DEAN
You don't get to call him that.
With that, he ditches CAS’S room and makes his way down the hallway, and around the corner. DEAN thumps his fist against the spare room door, and speaks as soon as MARY answers.
Wanna go to Church?
A confused, yet warm smile slowly rises on MARY’S face.
BLACK OUT
EXT. COMFORT PLUS NORTHEN HOTEL - 1:43PM
CASTIEL and SAM look around the parking lot to gain their bearings of the area, a displeased grimace upon SAM'S face as he does so. CAS nods at the room closest to them with the number seven etched into the door plate, and SAM replies via a nod of his own, to acknowledge that it is, in fact, their target location.
The pair make their way toward the room and, once they reach it, SAM knocks his fist, four times in quick succession, upon the wooden door.
They wait.
A few moments pass as they continue to alternate their focus from the door to the parking lot around them.
CAS
Should we knock again?
I can definitely sense someone inside that matches her description.
SAM frowns at the door and attempts to peer into her room through the closed curtains, weaving his head around and placing a hand up in a salute, pressing it against the glass to block out any light.
He gives up, his face full of worry.
SAM
She knows we're coming.
I dont--
His face relaxes in understanding.
She sounded off on the phone, but I figured… you know--
… Her uncle…
What if something isn't ri--
CAS takes this as a queue, and twists the doorknob open-- hard-- breaking it in the process.
He flings the door forward and enters the room before SAM is even aware of what has happened. SAM throws his hands up in an exacerbated shrug, with a sigh and follows THE ANGEL into the room. When they see her, the pair stop short--
MAGDA stands in the corner of the hotel room. She faces the sun-bleached wallpaper and mutters something slowly under her breath. Tears stream down her cheeks and with a knife in one hand, she raises the weapon against her own will, aiming it, with feverish determination, toward her neck.
FADE OUT
EXT. MANICURED FRONT LAWN OF A SUBURBAN PROPERTY - DAY.
A WOMAN places her child onto a high chair, in front of a birthday cake with a number two candle lit up atop it. The WOMAN takes a seat beside her child at the head of the table.
We pan out to see a crowd of all ages seated at the table, at the same time we hear them singing the Happy birthday song.
The frame freezes, with only the WOMAN remaining unfrozen. She stands, steps forward around the table, and addresses the camera.
WOMAN
I love my family.
That's why I didn't want to wait until it was too late to make my funeral arrangements.
We zoom in on the back of her plastic foldable chair until the screen becomes a flash of white-- when we zoom out again the chair is a comfortable, dignified leather, and the WOMAN now sits, once more. There is a MAN in a suit opposite her, pointing to a piece of paper, with his pen. They both nod and smile at one another. The scene freezes yet again. This time, however, the MAN remains unfrozen.
What?
Sure, he can stay seated if he wants, I guess?
What does it matter?
Anyway...
The MAN looks at the camera.
MAN
At Topeka Sunrise Funeral and Cremation home--
It's just called a home.
I don't know why!
Look, Jack--
I'm busy here could you keep your questions for after I've--
BLACK OUT
IN MAGDA’S HOTEL.
SAM “books it” toward MAGDA and barks at CAS.
SAM
Grab the salt bush, and the white candles, and turn the shower on, now!
CAS does a weird dance on the spot-- kinda confused by the instructions but doesn't want to delay any help he can give. He rushes into the alcove area of a bathroom as SAM wrestles to pull the knife out of MAGDA’S hand. CAS rips open the curtain and turns the shower on, adjusting the taps one at a time until the water is a comfortable temperature. He angles his head around the door--
CAS
Ready!
SAM is still struggling to free the knife from MAGDA’S abnormally strong grip, so CAS decides to join in on the effort. HOWEVER, as soon as his fingers reach her skin-- she blinks, and the knife falls from her hand-- embedding the tip into the wooden floorboards.
CAS, SAM, and MAGDA take turns, staring at one another.
CAS slowly raises his hand and turns it over, looking at it in confusion.
I didn't heal her?
SAM
Neither did I…
CAS twitches his head at an angle, and squints at THE CAMERA.
CAS
Thank you, but…
What... the fuck?
BLACK OUT
INT. Just another morgue in another small town - ?
DEAN exhales a deep sigh, as he slides the corpse back into its little metal drawer, his lips smacking together over and over in a raspberry.
MARY
So… the priest?
DEAN shakes his head, brow raised.
DEAN
Sure, why not.
He shrugs a shoulder.
Don’t think it really matters what we do, either way.
MARY seems to have to actually strain herself to keep from rollin’ her eyes, but DEAN pretends to ignore her and flips through yet another folder, of another headless person, from the same damn church group.
MARY
What are we doing here, Dean?
He sighs, and slaps the folder closed.
DEAN
Whaddya mean?
We're workin’ a case.
MARY pulls her lips tight into a line, spitting image of SAM WINCHESTER’S bitch face deluxe. Her face relaxes then, seeing something behind DEAN’S eyes, and she gently takes the folder from his hand-- He hadn’t realized he’d been gripping it so tight.
MARY
Are we?
Because Sam and Cas are less than a mile away, and you haven’t even let them know we’re here--
Not to mention, we already know everything we’re gonna find out about the victims.
She somehow manages to pull out the "concerned mother" look.
You know, we’d be better off looking into the church’s affirming group, right?
It’d be a waste of time digging up Father James.
There’s nothing to suggest that we’re dealing with a ghost, and the timeline’s not even right.
DEAN closes his eyes and lets his head fall back. He breathes. For a split second, he almost thinks of praying-- to who, he’s not even certain... CAS, maybe… Probably.
Not like he’d pray to CHUCK for strength... or--or a break. JACK-- even if he wasn’t off limits, he doubts the kid be leaping at the chance to do him any favors, and if he tried to talk to CAS right now… well, DEAN'S worried, he'd probably end up letting his fists do all the talking.
He can feel it, though... he’s toeing the line of a full-blown breakdown.
Getting impaled by a rusty bit of rebar’s starting to look too damn appealing again.
The endless grind to finish “just one more” fight against some big bad; the inescapable hamster wheel of CHUCK.
It’s all too much. He knows one of them’s got their head on the block today, already, too.
He’s not certain who of the four of ‘em it is, but one of them has their neck prepped and vulnerable, presented nicely for God to come and cleanly slice it off-- and hell-- that ain’t even a metaphor.
He’s gotta hope it’s him.
It’s a huge blow to everything he’s been trying to allow himself to start to think about working toward starting to let himself maybe want again.
He knows it’s gotta be him, though.
It’s either him, or it's part of some sick twisted torture, that it’s not him.
The church group? It’s on the nose. It’s a Chuck classic.
Vampire mimes from JOHN’S journal?-- Breadcrumbs, in retrospect. Of course he’d wanna work that case, like damn catnip.
Now this? He’d head for the hills. He’d wanna dig a bunker, under the bunker-- make sure he’s hidden away from the whole damn world, while the others work the case without him.
DEAN WINCHESTER, angriest guy alive, would freak out at CHEAT CODE’S little Yellow Brick Road, and stay the hell at home, while the others went to try find THE WIZARD and get their asses turned back into mud or whatever the fuck SAMMY did to the WICKED WITCHES of the North and South.
There was even a Goddamn fake fucking tornado and everything.
DEAN WINCHESTER would never read the full article and notice that all the victims are from the same “Friends of Dorothy” Church Group, but, if he did, he’d probably never do one hell of an impressive performance, throwing away the damned Lion-Tin-Man-Scarecrow outfit, and growing a pair of balls. So naturally that’s what he’s gotta do.
It’s all about him. It’s too obvious.
But, that doesn’t mean it's gonna be him who’ll end up in the metal draw beside whatshisface, here.
SAMMY’S managed to stay upright for the longest, so it’s probably him who’s gonna bite it.
If there’s no coming back from that. DEAN’S gotta go-- zero doubt. CAS’D understand. He’s been strai-- Clear since day one. CAS knows and gets that DEAN’D need to go. MARY-- no idea how she’d take it. Hopefully, CAS could make it all make sense for her, she could keep living-- going about things-- hell, maybe she’d even be happier? She could start over, adopt a couple of new kids, maybe, even birth ‘em out herself, (he's not too sure about all that). But, she could make sure the replacement kids get to grow up, completely oblivious to what’s out there, in the dark.
Point is: SAMMY goes, DEAN goes.
MARY goes-- Well, it's happened before. She’s already dead, isn’t she? She died in that fire in 1983, and she never came back. The lady that took her place is-- who’s he kidding-- It’ll hurt-- but he’s gotta keep himself on the board if she’s the one with the target on her back, ‘cause SAMMY’S gonna need DEAN to keep on keepin’ on. So that's that. It can't hurt-- MARY'S already dead.
CAS? Well If CAS bites the dust... Rebar, meet back. Oh, you're already acquainted? Awesome. SAM can go back to healing people with ROWENA'S magic and some essential oils.
DEAN sighs for the quazillionth time in the last hour.
DEAN
Alright… let’s go be gay.
Without even looking at MARY'S reaction, he flings himself dramatically outta the morgue, trying to force himself, to at least be glad he's able to get some fresh air before his whole world comes crashing down.
BLACK OUT
END OF ACT TWO.
Notes:
I'm so sorry!
I promise I'm very motivated to share this story with you guys, I just am struggling to be motivated to write.
I love you!
Chapter 25: "Chapel Roam" Part 3
Summary:
Do You Believe in Miracles?
Chapter Text
INT. SAINT SEBASTIAN'S CHURCH - 3:52
SAM clears his throat, then offers his hand out toward CAS. THE TWO of them have been sitting in these ridiculously uncomfortable plastic chairs for about three minutes, and it's all CAS can focus on, the lack of grace in him bringing the matter to the forefront of his mind, as he fidgets restlessly and wonders how SAM is not doing the same. CAS looks down at SAM’S open hand in confusion for just over two seconds, in which time, SAM shakes it around the space where it hangs, alone in the air, between their two seats. The movement, a catalyst, and CASTIEL is made suddenly aware of SAM’S, now overtly obvious intention.
CAS grasps at SAM’S hand, and attempts to arrange his features into a somewhat pleasant look, inciting a shock sensation in his stomach that he recalls is a physical reaction to sudden and extreme anxiety.
CAS strives to regulate his breathing, while he attempts to remind the persistently morbid voice in the back of his mind, that he disagrees with DEAN’S assessment of this particular case, and that, even if DEAN were correct, and this truly was just another of CHUCK'S ploy’s, people are indeed still dying horrific deaths, and therefore, he is needed exactly where he is.
Regardless of the extra “JACK shaped” incentive to pursue this particular case alongside SAM, it’s a case that pertains to faith in his father, and thus, implicates him specifically. All in all, fire that fuels both DEAN’S argument, but also, fans the flames of CAS’S own rage, and sense of duty.
CAS understands why DEAN is afraid, which causes THE ANGEL to regret with an additionally substantial enormity that the two of them no longer occupy the same body and mind; then DEAN would have witnessed the conversation that proceeded all of this and understood why CAS feels, with so much certainty, that they’re safe; that they are on the right “path”.
This stream of consciousness arrives CAS at a point in which he is reminded of his assurance, and his confidence acts as enough of a motivator to dissipate any remaining fear, and calms CAS'S breathing, once more.
Truthfully, CAS is burdened with a number of conflicting thoughts and feelings regarding the entirety of this case, their endless dancing in his mind has made it increasingly difficult to concentrate on the task at hand.
He feels, with monstrous, insatiable hunger, that he would much prefer DEAN were here, and he’d rather it were DEAN'S hand held in his. He yearns for the possibility, in some other reality, should he so please, DEAN may even allow CAS to use the premise of the case as an excuse to partake in some small, chaste touches. Nothing “untoward”-- not really, simply, them as they are, with no possibility of it becoming perceived as in excess for a “normal” friendship.
CASTIEL, in equal opposition, feels incredibly thankful that DEAN is miles away, and that, perhaps, the ease with which their false relationship would play out, is something that CASTIEL should be grateful that he would never have to experience, and furthermore, something that he would now never have to pretend to forget.
CAS was already having a hard enough time as it is, navigating the labyrinthine of hidden landmines that has become his relationship with DEAN, since the moment he pulled CAS free from THE EMPTY. His connection with DEAN had always been like that, to some degree. DEAN'S silent pleas to have CAS simply stay, to want THE ANGEL as close by him as possible, in companionship with the conflicting verbal jabs regarding CAS’S social ineptitude. Over time, however, they had both evolved, shifted, and fallen into the comfort of a relatively safe middle ground, and there they remained… until CAS “screwed the pooch”.
Yes, CASTIEL saw a way in which he could save DEAN’S life, rid THE ANGEL himself of the burden of his truth, and by some desperate plea, allow DEAN to view himself through an alternate lens than the one that had been forced upon him, predestined by GOD himself… and in the implementation of said action, he had ruined everything between them.
Unfortunately, what CAS had not accommodated for was the unforeseen possibility of being returned upon the earth, and having to reconcile with the consequences of his actions… DEAN had not yet made it entirely clear exactly what those consequences were, only that they existed, and that was what was driving CAS mad.
It's not like CAS could attempt to bring it up again. He had already done so… many times, and with each time came a new reason that the discussion needed to be delayed.
Each reason that DEAN gave seemed logical, and so there was no specific reason to argue… CAS didn't even believe that he could argue… After all, had he not done something appalling? Had he not been the one in the wrong? DEAN was always making it clear that he needed CAS alive; he was DEAN’S favorite weapon; the angelic version of a service dog, yet CAS went and got himself killed, again... Not only that, but he took their safe and comfortable middle ground and twisted it into something new. Something deformed, unrecognizable, and, as time indicated so far, something that was likely irrecoverable.
Perhaps, if CAS had denied DEAN'S initial request to home him while they reformed his vessel, things may not have become this excruciating?
Perhaps, DEAN would not have felt desperate enough to search for their “normal” by opting to seek out and bestow the sharing of flesh whilst they both occupied the same form.
CAS still wonders if the act was a test. If, maybe, he was supposed to somehow stay vigilant, whilst DEAN plied them with copious amounts of alcohol and flirted their way toward the bartender's bed. Maybe, DEAN had planned it all, to see how CAS would react, and CAS had failed. Perhaps, it was DEAN’S hope that CAS would remain an unadulterated and incorruptible warrior, The Captain, and only honorary member of DEAN WINCHESTER'S personal angelic guard, and instead, CAS crumbled at the first notion of permission and succumbed to years of suppressed desire.
It was all too late now.
CAS becomes entirely overwhelmed each and every time he lets himself think of that night... His body temperature increases, he feels nauseated, he can't eat or sleep-- although his body very much craves both, due to his ever mysterious lack of grace.
His entire existence has become unbearable… and yet he enjoys it.
The pain is pleasant somehow.
He wants. He wants. He wants.
It was enough before-- the thought of just “saying it”, simply telling DEAN how he felt, that he was… everything-- and it still is-- enough... It’s just that, it has been more now, and CASTIEL’S unable to erase that from his memory... Not that he would, if he could… He enjoys the agony of it all far too much.
Either way, ultimately CAS is just glad that DEAN isn't here to experience this…
CAS reflects that if DEAN were here now, his neurosis would increase to a height that CAS doesn't believe he's ever had to witness.
CAS hopes that DEAN is back home, at the bunker, drinking himself into a stupor and getting some much-needed, and well-deserved, rest from his CHUCK-related trauma that has evidently been triggered in his psyche since CAS informed DEAN of the specifics of his conversation with their new FRIEND.
FATHER PAUL
So, Magda tells me you'd rather we refer to Him as… Morgan Freeman?
CAS is brought back to his present reality in time to enjoy watching SAM as he does his best imitation of a wordless manipulation via a smile.
SAM
Er--
He chuckles.
I mean-- o-only If that's okay?
It's just that, we both have a bit of religious trauma a-and getting back into the whole scene is--
THE FATHER nods.
FATHER PAUL
It can be a bit overwhelming, I get it.
You're definitely not the first to have a complex history with… Mr. Freeman.
SAM nods and squeezes CAS’S hand. CAS supposes this is perhaps his cue to nod, and does so enthusiastically.
CAS
Yes, it's incredibly overwhelming returning to a place of worship.
THE FATHER smiles kindly at them.
FATHER PAUL
Well, I'll let the others know as they arrive.
They're a lovely bunch, here, I doubt anyone would have any reason to dispute your request.
His smile falters as he glances toward the back pews, and his voice is lowered when he speaks again.
How is she, may I ask?--
It's just--
She had seemed to be making progress before…
He lets his sentence trail off.
SAM
Yeah, she's about as bad as you'd imagine, I think.
CAS releases his hand from SAM’S and uses it to grip the orange plastic of the chair behind him, to further support his twist, as he looks behind him to the pews. MAGDA’S knees are all that's visible, as she lies down on one of the wooden seats, in the back row.
FATHER PAUL
Matt was a pillar of this community, it's--
He shakes his head.
After everything that poor girl has already been through…
CAS turns back toward the others.
CAS
She told you about that?
THE FATHER bares his teeth, as if embarrassed to have been caught.
FATHER PAUL
Matt may have mentioned his estranged family at some point over the years.
First it was Magda’s side of the family, then his sister out in California…
He shakes his head.
It seems like luck is in short supply lately…
CAS has been doing this long enough to know that this is a perfect opportunity to segue the conversation toward finding out about the other victims. He buzzes with excitement and opens his mouth to speak, but SAM, the prolific hunter that he is, beats him to the “drawer”.
SAM
Yeah, we heard that what happened to Matt might not have been an isolated incident.
THE FATHER frowns.
FATHER PAUL
I can assure you that the police are doing everything in their power to figure out what happened to Matt and the others.
The best thing that we can do right now is honor the lives of those we lost, and not let fear allow us to hide our true selves.
SAM nods emphatically.
Being here--
Joining us--
It’s what Matt would have wanted.
You are good friends, he was lucky to have you both in his life.
CAS
Thank you.
The church door opens and people begin to make their way inside. FATHER PAUL claps his hands together.
FATHER PAUL
Right, well, I’d better fill everyone in about Morgan Freeman as they arrive.
He places his hand on CAS’S shoulder as he passes.
If you’ll excuse me.
SAM takes his chance as soon as THE FATHER is out of range of hearing.
SAM
I’ll check the confession booth, you get the back office.
SAM rises from his seat as he makes the demand, and CAS quickly follows.
CAS
The sacristy…
SAM turns to look blankly at CAS, confused by the correction, yet not breaking stride. CAS ignores this, and rather than elaborating, he opts to ensure that neither THE FATHER nor the newly arriving congregation have noticed that the two of them have begun to roam about, freely examining their house of worship. The coast remains clear, as it were, and CAS whispers loud as SAM is about to shut the door on THE PRIEST’S side of the confessional.
What are we looking for?
SAM simply shrugs and smiles apologetically, before closing the door. CAS hurriedly makes his way toward the area behind the pulpit, heart hammering in his chest at the prospect of being found out, irritated at SAM for the lack of instruction, but most of all, utterly dejected, by the prospect of how much easier this entire case would be, if he had not somehow rendered himself the most useless angel to exist throughout all eternity
FADE OUT
INT. CHURCH CLUB FOR THE GAYS - AFTERNOON.
DEAN smiles at THE OLD PRIEST DUDE, who's looking him up and down with not so subtle displeasure.
DEAN
Hey there--
He flips open his badge carelessly.
I'm special agent Blidel, and this is my partner, special agent Graham.
MARY nods and throws open her badge at THE GUY.
You mind if we sit in on your meeting today, maybe grab a minute or two alone with each of you?
MARY
-- Please , Father.
MARY tacks on to the end, as if the magic word may actually be a magic word. THE FATHER continues to look at them like DEAN'S just asked if THE PADRE minds, if DEAN takes a quick dump by the altar. THE GUY sighs and rubs at the back of his neck.
FATHER WHATSHISNAME
Look, honestly, I'd love to help out in any way that I can…
It's just that, there's a long history here, and these people--
Well, I doubt you'll find anyone overly enthusiastic to talk to the police.
DEAN makes a face.
DEAN
We're not cops, we're from The Bureau.
THE FATHER actually laughs.
FATHER WHATEVER
Is there a difference?
DEAN’S ‘bout to tell him the damn difference, when MARY cuts in.
MARY
You mentioned there's a history?
THE GUY grins.
FATHER
Between the LGBTQIA plus community and the “authorities”?
I’m sorry to have to break it to you, but yes…
MARY smiles, DEAN doesn't. He adjusts his stance on the old wooden floors.
DEAN
So, you're not cooperating, is that what you're tellin’ me?
FATHER
Oh, I'd gladly cooperate.
If you would just be willing to wait until after the meeting, I’ll talk with you then.
As for the others--
Well, I can mention that you wish to speak with them, but it’s up to the individual if they would like to help.
DEAN narrows his eyes at THE SLICK FUCKER.
I hope you can understand.
DEAN
Sure, hey, I get it--
No cops at Pride, right?
THE PADRE’S brow twitches downward.
FATHER FUCKASS
I’m sorry?
DEAN
How about this--
He lifts one hand and slowly opens his suit jacket, showing THE PRIEST his pants pocket.
We promise to keep the badges holstered.
He slips his badge slowly into his pocket, then makes a show of quickly flapping his jacket closed again.
Now, can we check into the club dead?
MARY
Agent!
And… DEAN'S past the point of no return.
DEAN
What?!
Oh, come on!
Members of his group are going out by way of the world's worst haircut, and Padre here's more concerned we're gonna eat all the complimentary donuts.
People are starting to stare at them now-- the ones that have gathered ‘round inside already. In fact-- DEAN catches two matching looks of what can only be described as pissed off, and full of pity.
SAM
Dean?
He wanders over to them, with his hand… in CAS’S, pulling THE POOR BASTARD along like a stubborn puppy. THE ANGEL’S face, frozen in a freakin’ outstanding cliché look of pure CAS confusion.
The fake couple make their way through the big double doors and into a little foyer-type area, with MAGDA floating along behind them, in what DEAN notes to be a classic grief-fueled daze.
DEAN’S not to sure what SAM’S play is here, acknowledging that they know each other, yet clearly not dropping the entire “BOYFRIENDS” act; continuing to fake some type of gay thing with CAS, by the looks of the grip he's refusing to let up on THE ANGEL'S hand. DEAN decides to go with it though… Despite the whole thing making him wanna rip off his skin, and run into oncoming traffic…
DEAN
Oh, hey.
Didn't expect to see you guys here.
THE FATHER looks between them.
FATHER
You know each other?
SAM only just now seems to realize his mistake, like, maybe, somehow, during all those years off he managed to forget how to do all this shit.
SAM
Oh, yeah, uh--
DEAN
Yeah, it was, uh…
DEAN clicks his fingers. Say something. Anything.
MARY
The two of them used to date.
MARY points her chin at CAS, and THE ANGEL'S eyes widen, his face flushes, and he pulls his gaze off DEAN, to his feet. DEAN swallows. Sure. The reaction seems awkward enough to sell it.
DEAN
Yep.
He clears his throat.
Sure did.
The stories I could tell about this guy...
DEAN winks and throws his thum at CAS, while CAS scans the building as if he's trying to figure out what kinda wood it's built outta.
I mean the size of his--
DEAN licks his lip, grins then shakes his head at SAM'S genuine look of irritation, all the while CAS'S remained fascinated in the architecture, but now he's somehow managed to wiggle his hand free from SAM’S gorilla grip. DEAN then realizes he's been staring at CAS too long, and turns to THE FATHER.
So, I gotta be a-a practicing gay or--
Uh… that enough to get me a ticket to join in on the team meeting?
THE FATHER looks unsure as he measures each person's reaction. MAGDA pipes up-- sorta… more like a sad, little squeak, of a noise.
MAGDA
He was a friend of Matt's.
She pulls her mouth into some kinda attempt at a smile.
He should come in.
DEAN shrugs at THE FATHER, tryin’ to say, “Hey man, you heard it straight from the horse's mouth, try arguing with the grieving kid”. THE FATHER sighs.
FATHER WHATEVER
And you two?
Would you be comfortable with this?
SAM smiles, and nods, like he’s the worst partner ever, and doesn't have a care in the world that his current, hauntingly beautiful, blue-eyed boyfriend’s, ex is here, and that the two of them seem to be in some kinda secret stare off when the other isn't looking…
CAS
I’m happy with whatever Magda would prefer.
He says a little too earnestly. Right, CAS is clearly pissed at DEAN for hijacking their case, after kickin’ up a storm earlier, refusing to come along. Great.
DEAN
And my work partner?
DEAN doesn't know why he felt the need to clarify the work aspect, and he doesn't really get a chance to think it over, ‘cause MARY’S next words short his brain a little.
MARY
If it helps, I've dabbled with women in my time.
SAM breaks character, again. This time via the snap of his head, as he stops inspecting DEAN, and turns to gawp at his MOM, instead. DEAN tries to make sure his face isn't givin’ it away quite as much as poor SAMMY, but there's just something about the way she said it so casually that… Nope. DEAN decides it's better to just keep moving along. THE FATHER glances into the main church bit and then to his watch. This rate, PADRE’S thinkin’ they're becoming more drama than he can handle, DEAN’D put money on it.
FATHER
Fine.
Yatzee!
But, please, try to simply listen.
A jab at DEAN.
I will inform the group that they have the opportunity to come talk to you after the meeting.
THE FATHER nods and makes to leave, before doubling back.
And because we try to accommodate all of our members' trauma…
He eyes DEAN and MARY, making sure he's really nailed the whole, “All cops are bastards”, thing. DEAN tries not to roll his eyes.
We will be referring to "The Boss Man" as Morgan Freeman, today, alright?
He doesn't even wait for an answer, instead, he claps his hands together so the sound echoes into the actual church area.
Allllriiiight!
Everyone, take a seat, and we can get started!
MAGDA leads, and THE FOUR of ‘em follow, making their way over to the ugly, fluro-orange chairs in front of the pews.
SAM
You requested the case because you know one of the victims.
He mutters at DEAN, just loud enough so both MARY and CAS can hear, too.
DEAN
No shit.
DEAN finally rolls his eyes, then he can't help but let the smug smile burst free on his face.
Thanks for the “in”, genius.
He elbows SAM in the rib.
SAM
Thank mom.
SAM chuckles, sincerely.
I almost got us all burnt.
MARY shrugs, a little too much spark behind her eyes.
MARY
It was nothing, really.
Both SAM and MARY grin, as they look at DEAN, waiting for him to say… something.
He hates the feeling of it, and he's at a loss for whatever the fuck it is, he's supposed to say or do?
Laugh, maybe? He hasn't got it in him.
Instead, he clears his throat and gestures to the few remaining seats in the scattered semicircle.
CAS takes the one furthest away, then SAM sits beside him. There's only one chair left in the free clump, and DEAN nods at MARY to let her know she can take it.
DEAN slips into a chair second from the end, and begins introducing himself to the people beside him, wondering what the fuck he could possibly be in for, that can cause someone to go and leave this very meeting, only to end up a head short a couple of hours later… but then again, DEAN’S stuck between a couple of random women-- who definitely aren't interested in him, and he's being forced to listen to some guy-- who definitely thinks DEAN a narc loving dick-- dissect the bible at him, all while SAM and CAS, loudly fake their undying gay love for one another… and aren't even doing a slightly decent job at it. At this rate, maybe DEAN’LL be down a head before the meeting’s even over. He’ll’ve ripped the damn thing off with his bare hands.
BLACK OUT
END OF ACT THREE
Chapter 26: "Chapel Roam" Part 4
Summary:
Somewhere Between Heaven and Hell.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
INT. CHURCH JOHN - WHO GIVE A RATS ASS?
DEAN stares at his blurry reflection. It's his second time in here, and he's already run outta GO JUICE... in both of the damn flasks, he packed. Only way he knows that for 100% sure, is on account of the fact, he just drank ‘bout a fifth of HOLY WATER by mistake. DEAN sighs at himself, feeling pathetic as all hell that he's havin’ to hide away in a bathroom each time things get a little too real in the other room.
He turns on the cold water, and just kinda… stands there a minute or two... watching, as the water runs straight down the drain.
DEAN wants to scream, or-or punch the mirror, or tear the whole damn church down to the studs, light it on fire, strip butt naked, and dance in the fucking flames...
He wants to pull the rage outta inside him… but it's just not in there...
Instead, there's a tired as fuck, six-year-old kid, curled up in on itself, desperately wanting to be small enough to fit into his MOM'S arms…
It's torture, the waiting.
Going through the motions of a case, when the whole damn thing is a giant fuckin’ neon sign, saying “Written by CARVER EDLAND”.
He can't even tell the others…
“Hey, SAMMY. You get that it's because of me, right?
It's a punishment?
We pissed off God, he's broken free, and has led us to this very moment, just to get me to sit in on a Homo’s for Christ meet up.
Why for me, you ask?
Well, it kinda became this
thing
through puberty.
Turns out, I wasn't just a hormonal teenager who’d eventually grow outta all that.
Surprise?!
Now, let’s take turns to guess whose name got drawn outta the hat this time, and will be gettin’ got, for good”.
He finally splashes some of the cold water on his face, 'cause, well-- somewhere in the back of his mind, a voice tells him he's gotta drown his face in the wet equivalent to an espresso shot right now, or everyone in the whole damn church's gonna think he's got some serious stomach issue, and that he's in here, messin’ up their nice bathroom.
The voice goes on to tell him a lot more, actually.
It tells him how he's gonna walk back in there, and everyone's gonna look at him, and they're gonna know...
They're gonna see-- right away-- that he’s been sneaking off to the Little Girls Room, (where he belongs) to get as plastered as he can, everytime someone mentions how happy they are now, a-and how free they feel, and how they, finally, once again, get to believe that God loves them, exactly as they are.
It's the sucker punchline to CHUCK’S whole fucking joke.
God claimed to care about him... To actually care. Like, more than he cared about random human person number 373,275,625,893, and look where that gets you, kids. It gets you alone in a bathroom, freaking the hell out-- but also, kinda not freaking the hell out because yo-you just can't care anymore!
It gets you reflecting on your whole damn life, and how not happy, a-and not free you’ve literally always been.
Y-you start to get all antsy all over again, ‘bout how fucking often-- you just thought it coulda been normal-- to find relevant life lessons, that line up like domino's, alongside a monster of the week hunt-- Li-like, maybe, it was normal t-to find meaning in things, if you needed there to be meaning in them-- but hell, maybe it's not? Maybe God was sitting there-- godsized fleshlight, in hand-- jacking off to your breakdowns a-and throwing relevant side quests at you.
“You feeling sad that SAM ate all the Oreos? Here's a monster that’ll feed on nothin’ but Oreo lovers, bet the two of you never bitch about it, again!”
The voice tells DEAN that if he goes back into that-that literally
goddamned
room, he’s gonna hear something that’ll finally make him snap.
That six year old, in fetal position? Well, he’s gonna jump the hell up onto his hind legs, and grow into some kinda giant demonic, rage monster, who only exists to get his damn rocks off, by makin’ other people miserable.
...Hell, he might even kill ‘em all! The voice tells him.
He's done shit like that before, so, what's stopping him from gettin’ a little worked up and committing another massacre?
Yeah. He's gonna hear someone ask him about God, o-or his damn nonexistent, dead in the water, doomed-to-die-before-it's-born ass, love life, and he's gonna break one of those, fuck ugly chairs over their heads. He'll rip the plastic apart with his bare hands, enjoy the snapping sound, and start flayin’ people alive with it…
and he'll
like
it.
He won't stop.
He's never gonna stop.
He'll kill the whole world, drink its blood, bathe in it…
DEAN swallows, he looks down at his shaky, pale hands, gripping at the sink.
Something
is fucking so
deaply
fucking wrong with him.
The poison inside of him leaks outta every pore.
That's why he’s alone and drunk in this fuckin’ bathroom, like a coward, and that's why, even if he makes it through the rest of this literally God forsaken case, he will always be standing right here,
alone,
drunk,
and cowardly hiding in a church bathroom,
the voice in his head reminds him.
FADE
INT. CHURCH - ...NOT SURE, SORRY.
SAM’S thumb is completely annihilated, he knows this, and he’d been going so well too, which makes it worse. He was thinking he was about to make a full day without picking at it, instead-- it's worse than ever. Blood leaks through the pocket of his jacket, staining the material red... and he can’t exactly use magic to heal it while in public like this.
Thankfully, though, SAM
can
use this as a valid excuse, at least to HIS MOM and CAS.
Simply showing them his pocket and flicking his eyes off to the bathroom so he can sneak off to check on DEAN.
In truth?
SAM'S intrusive thoughts have been turnt up to a billion, and he’s worried DEAN’S been in there for far, far too long.
He pictures him: on the ground, mirror scattered around him, wrists running with red.
He pictures LILITH, free from the earth (where he was kinda confident before, though now, very dubious, he sent her), standing over DEAN’S body, tortured, ripped to shreds by hell hounds.
He pictures DEAN, wings spread, magnificent and terrible, laughing at SAM'S face as he realizes, he's not even really DEAN at all, but is now, in fact, actually just a shell for LUCIFER.
SAM gets to the door and knows he's an idiot.
DEAN'S obviously in a shitty mood because of the case, things as they are... SAM goes in there, he's getting the full force of DEAN'S lack of coping skills.
SAM turns away from the church’s wooden door to the men's room, goes to walk back to the group, but the whole thing seems to be wrapping up now…
People are rising from their chairs and are coming toward the bathroom. Others remain seated, while some stack their chairs into tiny towers. MARY and CAS are headed toward the refreshment table, looking both lost and dazed.
SAM turns back toward the men’s, and without much thought, he knocks…
It's not like it's one stall, there's no visible lock, but he knocks… like a fat, shrimpy twelve year old, scared to piss off his older brother-- even more terrified to piss off his dad…
There's no reply,
obviously
,
so SAM opens the door.
He finds DEAN, lookin’ up at him quickly like a deer in headlights, and turning off the basin.
SAM
Uh--
Sorry.
It's-- I think it's over.
DEAN nods. He looks a little… off… sweaty?
He grins, anyway.
DEAN
Thank, Morgan Freeman.
He chuckles, and SAM feels his head moving up and down, in agreement.
SAM
So--
Uh--
Back to Magda’s hotel or, uh--
Some of the other potential future victims wander into the bathroom, and head past SAM, to enter the stalls.
Are we hanging around to interrogate people?
DEAN looks at SAM-- with
that
fucking face, he uses when he's about to call SAM a freak.
DEAN’S voice is loud as hell when he speaks, and SAM even flinches at it a little.
DEAN
You will obviously not be able to join me, man.
I know that the victims were friends with a lotta you--
SAM only now realizes his
unbelievably
dumb fucking mistake.
He nods through the rest of DEAN'S speech.
--and I respect that, however, this is an ongoing investigation, the contents of which I can’t share with the public.
He squints at SAM, knowing the others in the room can't see his face. Then he gives SAM a gentle wack on his head, and mumbles quietly as he walks by him.
What’s with you today?
SAM frowns and lets the question echo in his mind while his brother leaves the bathroom.
What’s with you today?
Truthfully,
SAM’S not sure what's with him,
but also,
honestly,
given his track record, it's probably nothing.
It’s probably just him,
the way he always was,
is,
and always will be;
useless,
bad at all this shit;
but not normal enough to do anything else…
a full blown,
waste of fucking space,
freak.
FADE
INT. ROOM SEVEN - ROUGHLY SIX PM.
SAM
Um--
SAM clears his throat, appearing skittish.
CAS knows that it's because he's been irate since the meeting, and SAM is uninterested in the possibility of being met with his “heavenly wrath”.
Apparently, they're almost back here.
He mutters, then sips from a styrofoam cup full of scalding black coffee.
CAS scoffs.
CAS
You'd think your species should be smart enough to invent a way to drink from a receptacle that doesn't negatively impact the environment.
Riddled with guilt, MAGDA bares her teeth, as she glances down at the obscenity that, she too, cradles gently in her hands.
Oh wait, they did, and yet they felt that a ceramic mug simply wasn't disposable enough…
SAM frowns.
You're all endlessly searching for excuses to discard.
CAS picks up a still full, and hot cup,
intended for DEAN.
The pattern of the foam, a marvel in itself, tessellating chaotically to create something new, something whole, and somehow capable of holding boiled water.
He is reminded of the atoms that exist within the cells of a human, and of how the space between those atoms seems far too spread out to hold the magnificence of a soul.
CAS throws the cup into the trash, enjoying the loud thumping sound of its fullness as it lands atop the filth already within.
SAM
Uh--
Was that Dean's?
CAS glares at SAM, causing him to attempt to shrink into himself.
CAS
Dean can get his own coffee.
I will not be talked to--
By anyone--
Be sidelined--
He wants to rip his own hair out.
He can't even form the words to express the expanding emotions within him.
He is a fumbling, inelegant mess of broken wings, and perpetually bordered humanity, and if he expands much further, he fears he may explode.
In all fairness, CAS is aware that he was initially willing to depart the church with both SAM and MAGDA.
It seemed a reasonable request: That they should collect dinner and coffee on the walk back to the hotel, leaving DEAN and MARY to interrogate the others from the group.
What else could they really do?
Mill about outside of the church, waiting for each person to exit.
Ready to conduct their own interviews, under the guise of happenstance... that they were “other”, and “cool”, and therefore more trustworthy people to share one's truth with?
Apparently not. According to DEAN, that was a “dumbass” idea.
So, CAS silently bubbled in his anger and performed the tasks that were asked of him.
Now that those tasks are complete, however, he can tear them apart, if he so wishes.
SAM
He… can have mine.
CAS turns toward SAM, with all intention of berating him for enacting his ridiculous brother's every whim, but instead-- is struck silent, as he watches SAM place his own cup upon the table by the containers of Chinese food.
SAM smiles up at him meekly, and CAS is hit with an unexpected intensity of emotion that instantly subverts every ounce of anger within him.
It's JACK’S face--
not in a literal sense, more that JACK learned it from SAM, and in turn, SAM re-learnt it from him.
That's simply all it takes.
If CAS had a soul to speak of, he'd believe it was, in that very moment, utterly and completely crushed.
The entirety of the case, thus far, had been undeniably, fruitless. They had no leads, to speak of, only the further trauma, born from sitting on horribly uncomfortable chairs, and listening to droning sermons and personal praises-- that did little but emphasize, nothing more than, just how much love is wasted upon a histrionic, and barren God; the captor of not only CAS’S son, but CAS himself.
And it feels-- at this exact point in time, as if, perhaps, DEAN had been right all along?
That maybe, the entirety of this case has been one large set up?
That the clumsy, obvious, irony-- no longer appeared coincidental, but a pointed insult, as if to taunt CAS, specifically.
The accumulated comments of his wrongness, his connection to DEAN, to humanity in general.
All those beings over the years.
The flippant remarks-- they all laugh at him from their place in his history.
Echoing through time-- their voices ring out in an overlapping choir that reverberates into one single voice-- and that voice is CHUCK’S.
The malicious entity, masquerading as purity and light-- pointing out each flaw of CASTIEL'S, in an eternal mirror as if this entire “case” was intended as a joke…
CHUCK had even awarded him a time clemency-- to ensure that CAS truly understood the punchline.
The punchline is CAS.
How could he have been so naive, so incomprehensibly stupid, as to think he could ever have a chance at his ideal life? A being of unknown origin, of unknown power, that was willing to help them achieve their “happy endings”? A child's story, a wish upon a star. These things do not exist. He should know this more than others. Do people not pray to his kind? Is he himself not a being of pure hope, a wish upon a star, turned into something true? If angels are “good”, then how could this “FRIEND” be anything more than a disappointment?
He would never be let off the “hamster wheel”.
None of them would.
He would never be awarded freedom.
He would never get to hug JACK again, to settle down, and rest his aching bones.
They were all doomed.
Doomed to live out CHUCK’S narrative, potentially beyond the confines of time itself.
A dash of hope, one step forward, then death, sacrifice, dread.
Rinse repeat.
Sisyphus endlessly walking onward, an unending loop of the same song over and over.
The commitment to this realization, causes CAS to grasp at the table to keep himself from collapsing,
and finally,
to his bewilderment,
he does not explode in anger,
as he was so certain he would, but instead, implodes,
submerging himself wholly into his grief.
FADE.
EAT IT, DICK BAG
DEAN pulls BABY into a space and watches as MARY undoes her seatbelt and gets outta the car. Once out, she leans back into the cab.
MARY
You… coming in?
DEAN presses his forehead to the cold leather on the steering wheel.
DEAN
Gimme a sec.
He mumbles.
I'll be right behind you.
MARY sighs, and DEAN listens for the familiar soothing scream of the hinges as she shuts the door. He props his head up and follows her with his eyes until she's safely tucked away, inside the hotel room.
Alright…
He looks at THE CAMERA through the rear view mirror.
Here's what we're gonna do...
He turns in his seat, an arm over the bench to angle himself better.
I'm gonna be the one to put myself down, and then you and-and the guy you're working for, you're gonna leave the others alone, okay?
Silence.
DEAN scoffs.
DEAN
Great.
Good talk.
He turns away and reaches into his jacket pocket, pulling out his pocket knife.
Don't know how I'm gonna go gettin’ the whole thing off…
He bobs up and down, assessing his throat in the mirror.
But, hey, if the others did it, I can, right?
He stills, stares at the knife in his hand, then quickly lifts it to his throat, and THE KNIFE IS TAKEN FROM HIS GRIP AND RETURNED TO HIS BEDSIDE TABLE IN THE BUNKER.
DEAN turns over his now empty hand with a detached interest.
His eyes slide up in the mirror, meeting THE CAMERA once more, and something inside him cracks.
His mouth wavers as he attempts to breathe.
Please.
I can't--
His eyes swim.
You gotta let it be me.
I--
He glances desperately at the hotel room, dread rising as he contemplates the possibility that anyone inside could--
He searches his pockets for the knife-- somewhere in the back of his mind, knowing he'd come up empty, then manically, grabs THE IMPALAS keys out of the ignition, and in one sweep pulls them toward his neck-- BUT NO SOONER AS THE COLD METAL REACHES HIS SKIN, THE KEYS VANISH FROM HIS HAND AND ARE PLACED BACK INTO THE IGNITION.
Why?!
He spins around in his seat, the leather, cracking dully, as his piss poor attempt at anger shatters.
Just--
Just let me be the one, okay!?
It should be me!
A tear breaks free and tumbles delicately down his cheek.
I'm the one who died--
I-I wanted to die!
Let me --
He turns, abruptly, and desperately grabs at his keys again, BUT THEY ARE, ONCE AGAIN, RETURNED TO THEIR HOME IN THE IGNITION.
Now, he's pissed.
He spins to glare at THE CAMERA.
What, so, you just fattened me up on your-your Candy House, so you could eat me, a-and now you're on a “No Children diet?”
Th-the sandwich?!
An-a-and Cas, and Mom…
Every other sonnofabitch you brought back to get me to wanna play ball?!
That not entertaining enough for you!?
He shakes with rage, a grin on his face, and he nods, as if suddenly filled with understanding.
‘Course it's not!
I gotta go do it in front of 'em all, right!?
Gotta make sure they're all well and truly scarred for life!?
My bad!
He rips the door handle and shoulders the door in one motion, AND YET THE DOOR DOESN'T BUDGE.
He doesn't care-- he heaves himself into it over and over.
He scrapes at the door handle in desperation, his nails breaking and bending back at all angles.
LET ME OUT!
DEAN replaces his shoulder with the hand closest to the door, and starts hitting it, pushing at it, as hard as he can, snarling like a rabid animal.
He grunts and pants and then moves on when that, too, remains fruitless.
He starts punching at THE IMPALA’S driver's side window, over and over, and over again. THE WINDOWS ARE TOO STRONG, but DEAN barely notices, the skin of his knuckles loses out against the window, and begins to split apart, causing bloody smears against the glass.
LET. ME. OUT.
He hisses, he roars, his eyes are wild as tears stream down his face as he frantically adjusts himself, and slides down on the bench seat, kicking over and over with no give, at the glass.
His mind is stuck.
He is lost within the writing.
Trapped, forever trapped.
He was born to be melted down, to be forged into a weapon, and the war was lost long ago.
His old thoughts cannot coexist with his new purpose.
He is the one who needs to die.
He needs to get this brain as far away from his body as he can.
He is the one who needs to die.
He needs it more than air.
He is the one who needs to die.
He is the one who deserves it.
He is the one who needs to die.
He is useless.
He is nothing.
He needs to get something, anything at all, sharp or dull, so long as it will do the job, and to slice it through his throat.
He is the one who--
From 15.20 Despair:
CAS stands in front of DEAN, smiling through tears.
CASTIEL
I know how you see yourself, Dean. You see yourself the same way our enemies see you. You're destructive, and you're angry, and you're broken. You're "daddy's blunt instrument." And you think that hate and anger, that's... That's what drives you, that's who you are. It's not. And everyone who knows you see it. Everything you have ever done, the good and the bad, you have done for love. You raised your little brother for love. You fought for this whole world for love. That is who you are. You're the most caring man on Earth. You are the most selfless, loving human being I will ever know.
DEAN sits up in a violent inhale.
He looks down the lens of THE CAMERA. Hyperventilating, like his about to pass the fuck out, he feels as though his brains only just coming back online… like he’s only just woken up.
He’s so freakin’ confused and stares down at his hands... shocked by his poor fucking mangled hands.
...
It’s starting to hit him that he’s felt like this before.
He’s felt so damn confused by his own actions, like they're not even really his, like-like he’s possessed-- but no-- not possessed…
His face relaxes as it finally dawns on him.
…It's a goddamn curse.
With a new understanding, DEAN reaches for his keys-- somewhere in his mind, he’s thankful to be able to feel them stay in his hands-- He shoulders open his car door, with a quick grimace at the dull pain, he scrambles out, slams the door, and runs as fast as he fucking can, toward the hotel.
END ACT THREE
Notes:
Hello.
I LOVE YOU ALL!
Chapter 27: "Chapel Roam" Part 5
Summary:
The Bad Seed.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
WHATEVER, THERE ARE MORE IMPORTANT THINGS! JUST GO BACK TO LAST CHAPTER IF YOU'RE LOST!
DEAN kicks open the door and hightails it into the room, stopping short, mesmerized at the horror unfolding as he scopes out the scene. MARY wrestles with SAM over a knife, humming sweet words at him, MAGDA’S all crumpled up-- probably knocked out cold in the corner… and CAS--
DEAN
Hey-hey, hey, Cas!
DEAN wastes no time, groping the knife in CAS’S hand, cutting open his fingers as he tries to yank it by the blade. After pulling his hand back and shaking it in pain, he tries gripping THE ANGEL’S arm to stop his movement, but CAS-- goddamn angel of the lord-- is just too damn strong. He just goes on-- sawing away at his own freakin’ neck-- looking all peaceful with his eyes closed. By the look on his face, DEAN could imagine he was maybe asleep standing up, if it weren't for the stream of tears beginning to fall.
C’mon man, stop it!
Deciding on a new approach, DEAN takes one hand and throws it onto the top of CAS’S head, pushing it down, so the raw edges of his already gaping, bloody neck meet. CAS chokes on his own blood, right as his grace kicks in and he starts to heal himself. THE ANGEL grits his teeth, however, and his hand works more frantically as if to offset the healing, like he-he’s pissed that he’s able to heal himself without trying.
Mom, you’re not tryna to take that away for personal use, right?
MARY looks at DEAN with wild and deranged confusion.
MARY
No!?
Dean, what the hell’s going on?
DEAN flashes her a pathetic, “all’s well” grin, but it’s cut kinda short when CAS yanks at his arm, trying to free the completely useless hold that DEAN’S got on him, jerking DEAN off balance, causing him to stumble in closer to CAS’S body.
DEAN’S practically only ornamental right now-- but it's not like he can let go. He’s gonna hold onto the freakin’ angel’s stupid wrist for as long as it takes to snap him outta it-- which would be a whole lot easier if there weren't CAS’S blood gushing everywhere making DEAN’S hand start to slowly slip.
Now that the immediate panic over the whole situation has kinda subsided a little (given that his mom seems to be kickin’ ass at keeping SAM from going all Sweeney Todd on himself) DEAN tries to calm himself down with a deep breath…
Knowing he ain't actually in any danger of losing anyone of his VIP’S right this second is a huge relief. Plus he’s better at this shit when he’s gotta clear head, and the nightmare level crap he just walked into had him shaking like a damn chihuahua.
The only issue now is that both of those VIP’S are swimming ‘round in all that stupid mind crap that makes ‘em wanna chop their heads off in the first place. DEAN glances at MARY.
DEAN
Just make sure that Sammy doesn’t--
CAS yanks again, and DEAN’S hand slips from its grasp completely. He watches as the resulting give to his now free wrist launches CAS’S hand and knife, causing it to lodge itself stuck, about midway through his neck.
The angel's eyes spring open, and DEAN scolds himself for pulling his head back-- an automatic flinch at the look in CAS’S eyes. He looks at DEAN, all distant, cold, a-and wrong. And DEAN can’t help but feel like he’s about an inch tall… maximum.
DEAN swallows his-- let's just call it what it is-- fear-- manages to keep a hand planted atop CAS’S head, pushing it down, while his free, blood soaked, hand taps (...slaps) at CAS’S cheek, desperate to snap him the fuck outta this freakin’ curse. DEAN spares the quickest peek at THE CAMERA.
Little help here?!
DEAN turns his attention immediately back toward the semi-decapitated ANGEL in front of him.
MAGDA blinks slowly awake-- her head is a throbbing mess, and she’s pretty sure one of her fingers is broken or dislocated… because it's set itself beside where it usually sits in its knuckle.
DEAN
Cas, hey, you gotta snap outta this, man.
You hearing me in there?
CAS tries to speak, but is only successful in spraying DEAN in the face with more blood. DEAN can see all sorts of tendons and arteries reforming, knitting themselves together in CAS’S throat, as he chokes gluggily.
H-hey, it's okay.
He attempts a smile.
Don't speak.
Hearing frantic voices bounce all around the room brings MAGDA back to her reality.
The strange figure. Her uncle. His sadness. Finding him the next morning. Her vomit burned into her nose.
Calling the only other person she has ever felt any kindness from.
Worrying that she had brought him to his own doom.
The voice in her head.
CAS pushes and pulls the knife, over and over, through his neck and it's only then that DEAN actually realizes-- CAS’S damn knife is stuck on the bone…
It's fucked-- completely beyond fucked, but DEAN sighs and finally relaxes a little. He’s so damn thankful that CAS didn't grab an angel blade; thankful that even though CAS’S got stupid angel strength, he’s also his angelic, strong-as-shit, ain't-gonna-budge, bones too.
The voice in her head.
DEAN
Hey, man.
You gotta come back to me, okay.
It's a curse--
Just a curse.
He shrugs.
You can beat some dumbass little curse, right?
That's a regular freakin’ Tuesday for us, right?
DEAN, risks another glance at THE CAMERA.
The voice in her head.
DEAN
The hell are you waiting for?
Fix him!
From 7.17, The Born-Again Identity. Dean goes to the car trunk. Digs… Comes up with Cass’s folded, stained TRENCH COAT.
DEAN
Dumb to keep. I know. I saw you--
dissolve or whatever.
From 13.06, Tombstone. Sam and Dean, beside the Impala, and Cass, waiting for them by the phone booth.
CASTIEL
How long was I gone?
DEAN
It’s been-- it’s been a while.
Dean chokes down his emotions.
CASITEL
Are you okay?
DEAN
Yeah, much better now.
SAM
What do you remember?
CASITEL
I came to in a meadow, there was an old Windmill with a garden near a quiet brook. Then I walked here.
SAM
That’s where Dean spread your ashes. After we burned you.
DEAN
You like the Windmill? Thought it was a real calm, zen sort of place.
CASITEL
I did. It was a nice touch.
From 15.09 The Trap, On DEAN. Moving through the wilds of Purgatory-- he looks crazed, desperate, lost. Searching for sight of a Blossom, searching for CAS. No luck finding either. His WATCH beeps. He checks the time-- his stopwatch, running down from THIRTY MINUTES. DEAN’S final hour in Purgatory. After a few more lunges forward through the trees-- DEAN stops. Catching his breath. Realising.
DEAN
Cas!
No, no, no.
He looks at the sky, at the ground. And closes his eyes. Then, much more quietly--
Cas?
And we realize: he's praying.
Cas, I hope you can hear me... that wherever you are, it's not too late.
But there's only silence. A long beat on DEAN.
I should've stopped you.
A beat.
When Mom died--
I blamed myself.
Plenty.
But even then--
I had plenty left to go around.
So I put what I couldn’t take on you.
(then)
I wanted you to stay--
of course I wanted you to stay.
You’re my best friend.
(then)
But--
I let you go, ‘cause it was easier than admitting I was wrong, and…
A beat.
I’m sorry.
From 15.09, The Trap. Cass holds out a Leviathan Blossom. On Dean-- holy shit.
CAS
It got a bit-- smushed.
(then)
Once I had the blossom,
I fought--
Caught them off guard.
They fought back...
I managed to get away…
[Dean chuckles]
DEAN
It’s-- amazing. You did-- amazing.
From 8.17, Goodbye Stranger. DEAN is barely hanging on now. Beaten. Swollen. CASTIEL stands there, blade at the ready, light glints off the blade.
DEAN
I know you're in there.
I know you are.
I forgive you Cass...
(then)
... I love you.
The voice in her head.
DEAN blinks as his vision rights itself. His eyes search CAS wordlessly, before he spares another quick look at SAM and MARY. He distantly notices that not only are they still in a pretty even arm wrestle, but now SAMMY’S crying, and MAGDA’S come too and is moaning in pain on the poop colored carpet. He turns slowly back to CAS and watches as THE ANGEL continues to fruitlessly shave off insignificant crumbs of his spinal cord or whatever.
It hits him.
The color drains from DEAN’S face, and his stomach flips.
The thing that snapped DEAN outta the curse wasn’t their new friend… not really…
It was his own fuckin memories.
His goddamn depressing-as-shit-‘cause-it-ain’t-even-the-slightest-bit-depressing-at-all, fuckin’ memory… and CAS… all those goodamn times DEAN kept his mouth shut-- all the things he wanted to say but never actually did-- like the words were somehow taken from him before he could get them to form in his throat… and CAS-- poor bastard’s happiest memory’s probably the time he opened his big mouth to ring the EMPTY’S freakin’ dinner bell-- dude said as much, right?
Happiness is in the saying of shit, right?
What had DEAN ever even really said?
He was always downplaying shit, fuckin’ joking around like none of it mattered-- but he always figured… it wasn't like CAS couldn't see through it all anyway, right?
DEAN tries to swallow the dry lump in his throat. He beat the curse but, ironically enough, this shit? The whole realization-- a-and clearly that was the point of the visions, too, right? All of that shit? Well, let's just say that if he had that ammo about five minutes ago, nobody would have been able to keep his neck intact-- mysterious magical writing skills or not.
DEAN was gonna change things-- he was supposed to change things.
After CAS had… with that big ass speech… it was like the guilt and-and the regret about everything had eaten DEAN whole. He had barely managed to pull himself together just enough to kick CHUCK’S ass. So that CAS'S death meant something-- actually meant something-- ‘cause all of it had been so goddamn dumb and so fucking pointless.
Then, when they thought it had all been finally over, DEAN swore he would get CAS back. He couldn't not… Obviously… And then he-he'd make sure CAS knew that his life wasn't worth throwing away for DEAN, and he’d make damn sure CAS'S happiest fuckin’ moment didn't revolve around making some mouth sounds about how DEAN wasn't just some fuckin’ deadbeat psychopath.
That was how DEAN had managed to put one foot in front of the other… until he stumbled.
All the shit between then, and actually having CAS back… it's like DEAN kicked straight back into dumbass mode and zipped his trap up way too tight.
That was the point.
It was always the point.
CAS, since day one, saved his fuckin’ soul from the pit, from “the story”, from GOD’S lame ass plan and DEAN thanked the guy by… by what? A pat on the shoulder and a spare bed on occasion?
CAS, badass, rebel angel, publically defied the heavenly father-- pretty much all but stole DEAN a smorgasbord from The Garden of Eden, and in return, DEAN had gorged himself then, as an afterthought, secretly offered up a couple of crumbs and a pile of lint from the pockets of his dads leather jacket.
The voice in her head.
DEAN grips at CAS’S face, ignoring the jolting of CAS’S hand as he works the knife over and over at his neck. He forces CAS to look into his eyes and has to swallow down the wrongness of the determined self-hatred and overall emptiness in CAS’S eyes again.
No, this is different.
DEAN
Look, man.
I know I haven’t--
I don’t really… speak… about things.
I’m bad at it, we all know it.
He shrugs.
You could maybe even say, I’m the best at being bad at it.
It’s not the same voice.
DEAN huffs an attempt at a laugh, creeped out by the lack of even a tiny bit of warmth (not even outta pure pity) visible in CAS’S eyes. He goes on.
DEAN
I’ve been keepin’ a lid on a lot of things--
Things about-about things.
And--
Look.
I wanna do better.
I know I have to do better.
With-with you especially.
‘Cause I need you to know.
You gotta know that--
That, well, yeah, you mean more to me than… all that--
The-the-the--
He takes a hand off CAS’S face and holds his hand out like he's… squeezing a goddamn apple or something? He sighs and hangs his head, fully aware of how ridiculous all of this is. DEAN repositions his hand and changes tactics.
But I don’t want anyone to die.
DEAN
When-when you… died.
He breathes shakily.
When you said all that.
I--
I don’t even think it really made any sense until about a week later--
It was all just a bunch of gibberish, then you were gone.
And I…
I lost my damn mind, Cas.
I--
Why doesn’t he just--
DEAN
I was so damn outta it that I--
DEAN laughs in tiny puffs of air. His mind, far away, as he remembers.
Lucifer called pretending to be you, and I just--
CAS’S eyes begin to focus a little, his brows furrow.
But--
DEAN lifts his hand again and zooms it through the air, then returns it to its spot.
DEAN
Ran.
Straight to him.
I was so sure it was all just--
His smile (about how dumb he'd been) melts away.
It couldn't have been real.
He nods, clarifying, now noticing the slightest iota of confusion that has appeared on CAS’S face.
I mean, it was never gonna end like it did, you know?
I was--
He swallows.
And then it actually was… the end
And I--
He grins with all bitterness and resentment.
What future did I have?
I mean, really…
I--
Not just with-with… you but, uh, with--
Do you promise?
I can’t--
I won’t be able to take losing anyone else.
DEAN clears his throat.
DEAN
We had a kid--
a-a family, and I never got to fix any of it.
Never even got to say a proper goodbye.
I--
It was supposed to be--
I didn't even get a single minute of like…
DEAN grips CAS tighter, jolting his head in his hands.
I want… real…
He leaves the sentence open-ended and sighs, unable to articulate his feelings.
Okay.
CAS grunts as he pulls the knife from his throat completely. Frowning at DEAN, he drops the instrument of… his kinda shitty attempt at a self-beheading. DEAN watches as it clatters on the ground beside them. He searches CAS over his face and neck while THE ANGEL begins to heal the last of the wounds. Making sure the light’s back in CASTIEL’S blue eyes, DEAN inhales in a stuttered breath.
MAGDA pulls herself up and drags her battered body toward the cutlery drawer, slipping in the Chinese food that she had been hoping to eat earlier.
She takes out the last of the steak knives.
DEAN
You… You back?
CAS nods in DEAN’S grip, and DEAN sighs once more, slumping slightly, mirroring a nod in return.
Good.
What a freakin’ bloodbath--
Or should I say, shower…
DEAN takes his hands back and opens his arms up, displaying his newly decorated suit. Sporting a sexy blood splattering.
With her gross, mangled finger-- she winces-- yet grabs the knife tight and heads toward where MARY (She’s pretty certain that was her name, like the virgin mother) cries as she pleads with SAM to let go of his knife.
CAS
Sorry--
I-I couldn’t--
DEAN-- rolls his eyes and, without really thinking-- puts his hand over CAS’S mouth-- silencing the guy completely.
MARY looks up at MAGDA as she gets closer.
She eyes the knife, unable to register the object as the majority of her attention remains on her son.
DEAN
Don’t.
He inhales sharply.
I get it.
DEAN lowers his hand, CAS’S lips... now permanently pressed on his skin in a soft, fizzy feeling, on his palm surrounded by the spiky stubble. CAS searches DEAN’S eyes intently, and DEAN clears his throat again.
Pretty sure it was a curse.
He nods, then runs his tongue over his own lips, unable to stop himself from staring at CAS’S mouth.
MAGDA crouches behind SAM, smiles solemnly at MARY, takes a deep, steadying breath, and swiftly plunges her knife straight down at SAM’S neck.
Notes:
I apologize for the delay and the tiny chapter. You guys deserve better. We all deserve better.
Chapter 28: "Chapel Roam" Part 6
Summary:
Dead Man's Blood.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
JESUS FUCKING WHAT--
SAM gasps violently in shock as he comes to. He blinks rapidly, and one hand falls, now empty, whilst the other swats manically at his neck, searching for a wound he knows he’s doomed to feel. His harsh, choking breaths ring out like sirens.
A slap of skin to skin.
Then another.
A third, and the world comes into focus as his hyperventilating lessens, it becomes apparent that the sound of a SLOW CLAP bounces across the walls of the bunker.
SAM searches the faces of those around him, tryna to make sense of things, and finds that (apart from DEAN-- who is eyeing SAM’S neck like he’s also unsure if there's a secret gash pouring invisible liquid), each person in the map room happens also to be glancing around; scanning the area to find where the applause is coming from. A familiar smug tone grates out, and a silhouette begins to emerge from the shadows in the small, lower stairwell.
???
Well done.
I must admit, I really didn't think you had it in you.
None... of any of this is making a lick of sense to SAM, but he realizes that he is the only one still on the ground, and that everyone else seems to have moved on kinda quickly from the confusing hellscape of MAGDA’S hotel room. He manages to shakily get to his feet, feeling embarrassed.
Didn’t count on Mary Winchester making it through your little storm, did we?
MARY
What about me?
SAM swallows, testing out the feeling in his throat, and hears a mumbling emerge from within his mouth as he recognizes the figure in front of them.
SAM
Crowley?
DEAN
The hell is going on?!
DEAN roars.
CROWLEY
Crowley--
He smirks.
What was I thinking?
Sounds like a type of bloody bird.
The Crested Crowley...
The Spotted Crowley…
He surveys the room as if expecting a laugh-- as if he's on stage at a friggin’ open mic night.
I go by Fergus, now--
DEAN scoffs, loudly-- rolling his eyes and putting his whole body into the drama of it.
And as for what’s going on, well, to put it simply--
CROWLEY-- Wait-- FERGUS sighs, as if exhausted by the words that follow.
Not only is your friend annoyingly just barely inept with a pen, but…
God’s writing again.
SAM looks straight at DEAN-- knowing that, not only is he in for one hell of an “I told you so”, but also, a shit tonne of guilt. DEAN narrows his eyes at CRO-- FERGUS .
DEAN
And… you know this how?
CAS
Dean… his hand.
SAM subconsciously tracks his eyes down to CR--FERGUS’S hand and feels his eyes widen as he snaps his head around, looking from his brother to FERGUS and back. FERGUS tries not to smile as SAM, DEAN and CAS marvel at the ring on his finger, all three fully aware of what he’s got sitting pretty on his ring finger.
FERGUS
Oh, this?
He holds his hand up, twisting the ring, so that the hauntingly white, swirling stone sits firmly atop the center of his knuckle.
It’s a bit garish for my taste but--
Well, as far as occupational hazards go, I suppose it beats dealing with demon uprisings.
SAM shakes his head, trying to clear it a little-- to keep up with the others.
SAM
You’re… Death?
FERGUS
Quick as ever, Sam.
Yes, I’m death.
CAS
--How?
CAS straightens up.
A demon can’t be--
FERGUS
--Dean, is it true that you let Feathers inside you?
SAM blinks slowly, feeling like his fight, flight, freeze or fawn is set to all of the above, and if he even breathes too loud, he’s gonna be attacked.
--And by that, I mean you finally slept together--
--as in shared a bed--
--Like you really, actually --
DEAN rolls his eyes, and it hits SAM that FERGUS is making fun of DEAN’S possession . SAM exhales sharply and disguises it as a disgruntled sigh at CROW--FERGUS’S relentless immaturity. He knows these comments are one of a zillion, but he still-- after all this time, finds that he gets a little uncomfy on behalf of his brother… and well, something in DEAN’S face this time… It’s like he’s tryin’ way too hard to act chill about it.
DEAN
Just answer the damn question.
Or… maybe he’s just getting way too old for this shit.
FERGUS
What?
You think you’re the only ones who can get a priest to chant over a couple of quarts of blood?
Didn’t you have your own, failed, stint at the job, for a minute there, Dean?
DEAN
So you’re a human?
FERGUS
Did you leave your brain back upstairs?
Not a human, Dean.
I’m Death, like the Death.
SAM watches as DEAN turns to THE CAMERA, then back to CROW--FERGUS.
SAM
So--
I--
…Hang on.
SAM clears his throat and tries again.
Wait--
When did you get the ring, exactly?
FERGUS
A while ago now.
Not all of us wanted to be brought back…
SAM finds himself looking toward MARY, only noticing when she evidently feels his eyes on her, and glances back at him… He attempts a smile, then looks away…
I figured, the way I went out, maybe it would all mean---
He sighs.
Doesn’t matter.
Fat lot of good that did me.
Your new Queen of Hell decided that maybe…
I’d learn to be okay with being alive if I became Death itself.
He smiles at his ring.
Lucky for her, it turns out, she may have been, right.
…it was bound to happen one time in her life--
She is ancient, after all.
SAM
…How’d Rowena… get the ring?
CR--FERGUS turns to THE CAMERA.
FERGUS
You wanna tell them, or should I?
Silence.
He shakes his head with a smile.
You ever wonder how your not-quite-right, friend here, happened to be bringing all those people back?
MARY
They were… death?
MAGDA
No.
The faces in the room all turn to MAGDA, SAM has to spin around completely, kinda… forgetting that she was even there, and immediately feeling horrible about it. Poor kid’s jumped headfirst into the deep end-- zapped to their underground lair of hoarded books and magical relics by DEATH himself. Surprising SAM, though, the more she speaks, the more it's evident that she’s more clued in to what’s actually going on than he is…
They had the ring but--
It’s not like that…
They’re not strong enough to have been death.
They’re not…
She thinks about how to explain whatever the hell she's trying to say.
Not here , enough.
SAM
So they just--
He shrugs and scoffs sarcastically.
Gave you the keys to Death’s kingdom?
DEAN
Yeah…
What?
DEAN turns toward THE CAMERA.
Nobody else want the job, or--
FERGUS
Your friend has a weak spot.
Seems they think all life is precious .
Plus, I suppose they thought I was “team Winchester” enough that I’d be willing to play ball.
Must have been a real blow to the jewels, having to watch you all walk into that rough draft of a trap…
Especially with Mary being a wild card…
But then again, maybe it was an even bigger blow to old Charles.
DEAN balks.
DEAN
So-So…
Just so I’ve got this as straight as-as…
He falters coming up with the rest of an analogy… which is kinda concerning for SAM to witness.
Chuck… j ust, what?
Killed all those gays just so we’d get to that hotel, and he could end us by some lame ass curse?
CROWLEY grins, full beam of a thing.
CRO-- FERGUS
It's about survival for him.
Now with what is it you call yourself-- Team free will?
Not sure if you noticed, but you have a few new members.
He cranes his neck as if he can see people milling about the bunker through the walls.
Not to mention the fact that you've completely erased a couple of his best and fairest-- right, Sammy?
SAM flinches, jumpin’ sky-high at purely being mentioned. He’s just so damn on edge.
Been testing out the new system?
He folds his arms and narrows his eyes in a probably sad as hell attempt to seem more in control than he feels.
SAM
What do you know about it?
FERGUS
Let's just say, the empty doesn't make it too hard to strike a bargain, when all it really cares about is getting a good night's rest.
A few released angels to keep heaven up and running--
He eyes CAS as if he’s judging THE ANGEL for not personally being on top of that already… as if he do’n’t got bigger fish right now.
--in exchange for all future angel and demon deaths going through me--
CAS
--What do you mean?
DEAN
--So an angel or-or a-a-a demon dies now, and what?
He shrugs.
Shows over?
No redoes?
FERGUS
Pretty much.
DEAN swallows and stares at the ground as if he’s tryin’ to make sense of CRO-- FERGUS’S words.
CAS
And the “few released angels”?
CR-- FERGUS!
Don't worry, Cas, they're all locked up tight in heaven, fighting each other for a modicum of the illusion of power, and can't get back down here unless your pal writes it.
DEAN
So, wait--
DEAN chuckles.
Back up a minute here--
He seems distressed but tries to smother it with the air of nonchalance.
So say, Cas or-or Michael gets ganked by Chuck on some B-list, rough draft, trap.
What?
They're gone for good?
“Returned to the earth” or whatever?
FERGUS
What part of this are you having difficulty understanding?
DEAN
No, it's just--
He turns to THE CAMERA.
And you're okay with this?
You're all freakin’ dandy with there being no-no freakin’--
He shrugs again, his hands slapping against his jeans as they fall to his sides.
--No, nothing?
DEAN looks at SAM so quickly that SAM wonders if he imagined the level of pleading and desperation in his brother's eyes.
So… I was right?
DEAN laughs without an ounce of humor, facade intact again.
Cheat Codes knew it was a Chuck trap and sent our asses straight into the flames anyway?
SAM tries not to let his voice become too gentle. Not to seem too patronising or bleeding hearted.
SAM
Dean, we had to go regardless… people were dying.
DEAN
But--
He turns back to THE CAMERA.
And I mean this with all due or undue respect here…
Is that not just like… a collaboration, then?
Are-are you not just Chuck fuckin’ junior?
FERGUS snickers.
FERGUS
No, you twit.
SAM
It was still just another stop on the way to getting everything sorted, right?
It led us to Crowley--
--I mean, Fergus .
Right?
CAS
I think I prefer the notion of my eventual yet inevitable decay, nourishing the earth and becoming a part of a new creation.
DEAN can’t even look at CAS now. He laughs and rubs at the back of his neck.
DEAN
Cas--
CAS
--It's better than succumbing to an endless dream of my biggest failures and deepest regrets.
DEAN scratches his hair in frustration, then spins and stares CAS down.
DEAN
You can't be serious, I thought we were gonna stop accepting the better of two shitty options!
If Cheat Codes wants you dead--
SAM frowns, and MAGDA pipes up again.
MAGDA
Oh, they really don't want anyone dead…
FERGUS
--If our new mate wanted you dead, they would have just left you in heaven.
He sighs.
The deal was that I would only intervene if it was Sam’s neck on the chopping block-- No offence, Feathers.
CAS rolls his eyes, and DEAN’S scowl turns on FERGUS.
It's just that Sam, here, was the only one of you who isn't supposed to be dead by now.
I suspect that our mate--
Cheat codes, was it?
Hardly original--
He seems to notice the looks of building anger on everyone in the room and holds his hands up in surrender.
--I digress… I suspect they had a little chat with the psychic here--
Got her to try slicing off a vital part of Sam’s anatomy-- considering Mary was in the way… that's when I had to fulfil my promise and pop on by to save the day.
He pauses, almost as if he’s expecting another damn applause break…
Besides, my lovely mother would never forgive me if she lost her darling new apprentice.
SAM can't help but smile at this, though he tries to turn it into some kind of scoff to look as pissed off as everyone else seems to be.
I'd never-- and I mean never --
Hear the end of it.
Pain in the ass if you ask me.
The small smile on SAM’S face grows to a full-on grin by the end of CROWLEY’S speech, completely gaining a few looks of uncertainty and distaste from his family.
CAS
Wait a minute--
You're saying that because you're death, you refuse to defy the natural order and help keep the rest of us alive-- and yet you're here to intervene when the natural order dictates that Sam should die?
CROWLEY smiles-- Shit. No-- FERGUS … It's a CROWLEY friggin’ smile though, that's for damn sure. Slimey.
FERGUS
Well--
I am, above all, a merciful guy.
All of your deaths were prior to me being promoted.
He adjusts the cuffs of his suit as he talks.
But I'd be willing to play ball, willing to wipe the slate clean--
SAM sighs… of course, there's gotta be something in it for him. Some things never change.
Keep you all alive if--
DEAN
--If?
FERGUS
Well, like I said, Chuck is powerful-- and growing in strength by the minute.
You realize that poor Castiel died because Chuck had bound, what's her name?
He clicks his fingers.
-- Billie -- right?
Had her working for him for ages.
FERGUS revels in the confused looks on their faces.
Yeah, turns out, the whole thing was just some huge wind-up to get your little Jack off the board.
CAS clenches a fist at his side-- a human gesture, trying to simmer his anger, SAM’S seen DEAN do his whole damn life.
SAM
Wait a second, if-if Chuck planned our deaths, doesn't that mean he’s interfering with the natural order?!
And--
DEAN waves an arm wildly in SAM’S direction, his way of showin’ he agrees, and SAM’S on the right track.
DEAN
--Right?!
And how many times have we died because that's what Chuck wrote?!
How long was Death just Chuck’s friggin’ bitch?!
CROWLEY opens his mouth to respond. FERGUS. It's FERGUS!!!
SAM
Fergus , how do we know you're not bound to Chuck already?!
MARY
--We bind him.
FERGUS
Really?
Despite his objection, his smile widens, practically oozing CROWLEY slime.
I'm that untrustworthy that you wouldn't even take my word for it?
DEAN
--Yes!
CAS
--Yes.
They say in unison.
FERGUS
Need I remind you, I died for you--
DEAN
--Yeah, well, apparently so did Jesus, you wanna be worshiped for it, get in line.
FERGUS
Unbelievable…
He saunters over to the dining table and scrapes a chair out along the ground, then plonks himself down melodramatically.
Fine.
But, I dibs be tied to the creepy girl.
He sighs.
She has a line to Chuck and your Cheat Codes, so having direct access to that information is important.
He glances around the bunker like he's taking in the changes for the first time.
Knowing all you lot, you’ll probably keep me outta the loop and bury vital information that’ll make my job a hell of a lot harder.
SAM
So now it's your turn--
SAM can’t help but have his on mouth slide up into a smug grin.
Fergus, what do you want in exchange for keeping us safe?
His voice drips with his underlying play.
DEAN
Sam… he’s gonna be bound to Magda…
Dude doesn't really have a choice?
FERGUS
Thank you, Sam, but honestly…
You poor idiots pretty much just gave it to me.
SAM'S smile drops like a ten-tonne bag of bricks.
Given that I will be bound to the psychic-- who, I assume, won't be going anywhere any time soon, given that Chucky isn't above piercing her to a fishing lure?--
He raises a brow and waits for anyone to object. SAM narrows his eyes.
Well, if she's here, and I’m piggybacking her--
CR--FERGUS clasps his hands together contentedly.
This bunker of yours is one of the truly safe places on the planet at the moment…
He grins.
Once I bring back Magda’s poor uncle and you lot show him around…
I may need a hand moving some of my designer suits into the room right next door to Dean’s.
FERGUS winks at DEAN, who, in turn, lolls his head at SAM with a face that years of brotherly conversations via only looks and groans, says to him, “Great, now we have to kill Death for the third time”.
Notes:
All my kings are short kings.
I love you as always.
I'm still writing this (albeit at a snail's pace) for you, specifically, besties.
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