Chapter Ten:
You'll Forget About Me After I've Been Gone
Bowman took the lead after getting the go ahead from Lord Scar, since the humans had already met him and trust him. None of the sprites wanted the group at the clearing to feel like this was a trap. Even if they appear to have prepared an ambush for them... Bowman put out a little extra burst of speed and saw the Knights circle around in the thick foliage. Worrying his lower lip if they were discovered and the humans thought the worst. The gravity of this meeting hitting home as he broke through the thick leaves and looped around the clearing, circling everyone and making sure that they too weren't hiding anything before his cousin and the Lords came out. Glad that his brother was alright, and waving for him to come on down and join them.
When Bowman got closer and landed a few feet away, between the two small groups. He gave a respectful nod to the humans then the sprite sized people. "Spirit shine upon you." He started with the formal greeting since the Lords were watching and listening in and he didn't want to seem rude. Bowman was going for the most diplomatic voice he could muster and got a head tilt from Castiel and dead silence from the others. "I have brought two of our most respected an noble Lords to assist you this day."
"Bowman? What the Spirits dance are you..." Sam started to ask but saw Lord's Cerul and Scar fly in with Rischa at Cerul's other side. He stood up straight and brushed off his outfit quickly. Bowing deeply towards them.
The amount of pomp and circumstance these two were displaying for the newcomers had Sam and Cas straighten up as well, even if it made them even taller sitting there on the ground. Oscar and Sam saw everyone else doing it, so they did likewise. Oscar had never met a noble Lord before and was nervous for the first meeting. His friend staying close by for moral support.
Cerul was nearly beaming. Already sensing out everyone here and the nervousness at their arrival. The honest desire to impress, and the care taken on their part not to insult them. He flew closer and Scar was just a hairs breath behind, landing at the same time. Rischa landed behind Bowman, peering past his wings shyly at so many new people. New feelings coming at her from foreign minds. Everyone keeping at least one eye on the two humans. Bowman folded his wings a bit more to show her a better sight of them. Patting her side behind him to assure her it was truly alright.
Cerul bowed to the mixed group in return, and Scar just nodded his head for a few seconds.
The Knight hesitated for just a moment before coming forward and greeting them. "Lord Cerul, Lord Scar. This is Sam Winchester, Castiel Novak." He gestured upwards to the humans who relaxed their posture and waved politely as the Knight went on. "They are from another world, where it is 2017. There are many other differences that we were just discussing." Sam said and turned to the other one his size. "And this is also Sam Winchester and Oscar. They are from a different world entirely, and it is 2006 for them." The other Sam waved and Oscar swallowed hard and lifted a hand for a fraction of a second before disappearing behind his friend's back again.
Cerul felt the fear coming from Oscar but quickly understood, this was a common thing for him to feel, so he didn't take offense. He knew that this was all very very new for him in particular, so made it a point to nudge his fellow Lord into toning down the stoic guardian warrior, a little with just a few imploring looks exchanged between them.
Scar sighed under his breath and made an effort to smile widely at everyone. Lips pulled back to show all of his friendly teeth.
It terrified his young Knight, Sam and younger Patrol sprite, Bowman. Usually Lord Scar would only smile like that in battling a formidable enemy. Relishing a good challenge to hone his impressive skills. "There is no reason to fight these people!" Sam blurted out and caught himself. "They came here for help. I was hoping we could lend them some of the spirits healing strength for... for Dean." Sam said and turned to the side to indicate that they could follow him closer.
Cerul shot a scolding look at Scar for going overboard and Scar shrugged back, putting on his neutral, vaguely disapproving, expression again.
Cerul spoke up. "We know, Sam. Bowman filled us in. Let's see what we are dealing with." And started forward with a casual gait, patting his brave Knight's shoulder as he passed.
His kind and blunt words and actions helped relax everyone. Cas unfolded the shirt nest to expose more of Dean's body to the shorter people. Gingerly lifting him up and setting him down again on the trench coat that was covering the ground. The Lords looked down questioningly at the tan fabric and stepped on, sinking a little into it because it was being partially supported by grass. It made Scar stumble, expecting a solid surface. Rischa dove right on. Giggling at the slight bounce in every step, wings fanning to keep her balance on it. Bowman wrapped an arm and wing around her to keep her from darting ahead of the Lords. Sometimes she acted just like a curl winged nestling.
Dean whined through gritted teeth when he was moved before pursing his thin lips together. Breathing out of his nose to keep himself quiet and shifting into a better position. Wings trembled and fanned out to lessen the weight on his sides. Getting rid of the slight heaviness around his ribs. He was breathing even harsher now then before Bowman left, and his eyes less focused in just that short time.
The Lords came within a foot of Dean who's nose started twitching, inhaling and sniffing at the air. 'Whole salad bar.' He huffed a laugh that turned into a harsh cough, angling his head away to keep his flammable spray away from the short people. The coughing turning even more violent, wracking his already hurt body with the full throated hacks. A short flame burst out when his sparker teeth accidentally clacked hard together, and everyone jumped back, Scared. Another short fireball burst followed right after with the harsh coughs. Dissipating before it settled anywhere to do any damage, but it still terrified all of the short people that had no idea Dean could do that!
Oscar tripped over himself to get away and Sam nearly joined his friend. The Knight went for his sword on instinct, grabbing the hilt only, keeping it sheathed as his eyes were still trained on Dean's smoking mouth. The stench of smoke in the air wafted around them.
Scar raised up his hand high and Bowman darted a frightened look all around them.
"Don't!" Bowman shouted in panic. "I don't think he wanted to do that!" He didn't think, he just spread his leafy wings wide to block Scar's view of Dean protectively.
Castiel noticed slight movements to his left, a tiny glint of light reflecting off of something in there. Eyes going wide when he saw a different sprite holding out a sword in front of herself. He brought his hands down around Dean who had just worked the coughing fit out of his system before being covered up by two huge hands. Cas's eyes darted all around at more glints of metal swords. They were surrounded. "This was a trick?" Castiel looked down at the group on the ground. He turned to his friend. "Sam, they're all around us." He frowned, brows lowering. "You brought them here to attack in an ambush?" He aimed his ire at Bowman who shot his hands up.
"No! We just... it's!" He stammered. It was not his place to question the Lord's decisions. He could feel the peaceful meeting turning south in a hurry if they didn't say or do something right now. Turning to his leaders, "He didn't mean to!" He gestured to Dean while speaking to Scar. Hoping that it really was an accident. Bowman could bop those stupid humans! They could have warned him that Dean can make fire out of his mouth! That should have been one of the first things disclosed!
"Wetrusted you." The human Sam leaned over towards Dean. Hands going to large fists on the ground. Oscar and Sam didn't know what to do, side with the sprites or with Sam and Castiel who never said anything about Dean being able to set things on fire. What else did they lie about? Keep hidden. Both of them looking up and around at all of the tense faces. A fight itching to start.
Lord Scar still had his hand up. But the way that human was speaking... they had not been readying for a fight? The one Bowman called Dean was clearly sick and in great pain. The fire probably was an accident for its kind. Who here could control a cough or sneeze? If Dean intended harm on anyone, he could have just left his head laying down facing the sprites instead of turning the coughs away.
Rischa was just as scared as everyone else, hugging tightly to Bowman's side as his wings were still raised, blocking Dean from what he perceived as an enemy. That gave Scar pause. Bowman was clearly not wanting to fight Scar, but also not wanting Scar to fight Dean or the others. Cerul was just as tense as he was but it was due to what could happen in the next few seconds if this escalated unjustly. At the moment, everyone was silently waiting for someone to make the first move. Lord Scar looked all around at his circle of men. All were poised and ready, eyes on him for the command to start. The humans did not move besides turning to face their potential attackers. The human Sam brought over his hand to block the small Sam and Oscar from view as well. Keeping them from being attacked, without grabbing them in a fist. Using his hand as a shield instead of a weapon.
"Scar." Cerul said quietly and the other Lord got the subtle meaning loud and clear. Scar raised his other hand and with deliberate clear movements, gave the signal to stand down again. All of his Knight's put their swords down and away, hovering in place.
Scar stared at the monster who was whining and moaning even more now. From this distance away he could see the small drops of blood that had sprayed out of the mouth onto the tan fabric below. The coughing fit must have hurt with the addition of that strange fire. Wondering why it's own fire injured it. "Explain what happened." He said loudly in a stern voice.
Castiel refused to remove his hands from Dean who wasn't complaining about the warm safe cave. Dean's nose was plugging up with all of the mucus and some blood, but he could still tell that everyone was anxious and angry. It killed him to know that he was the cause of it, but could do nothing to stop it. It hurt to do anything in any case. Even thinking hurt his throbbing head so he let Cas take care of him. Trusting him and his brother with his life.
Sam cleared his throat, and saw all of the small people look at him expectantly. Even the little borrowers were looking scared as hell from Dean's tiny fireball. Sam kept his voice calm, "Dean is a Drauglin. Where I come from, we come from," He gestured to Cas and Dean as well, "They are generally called dragons. Our society and world thinks that dragons don't exist in anything but fairy tailes. However, they do live and breath, humans made them out to be evil monsters but they are anything but. They are intelligent. Usually peaceful."
"Usually." Scar narrowed his eyes, fingers tapping on his sword handle.
"Yeah. Like in any group, there's good eggs and bad ones." The terminology made them confused so he clarified. "Just like how not all people are good, not all dragons are, but in their case, all of them were judged on the bad ones. They were and are still being hunted down by Hunters, and punished for the acts of a few. There are rampant misunderstandings about their roles in nature. They are actually caretakers of the wild. Different kinds of Drauglin's evolved for different locations. From what we've learned, is that there's some that live in the ocean, making sure there isn't one overpopulated group decimating their food stores. There are some that live in the mountains, the deserts, the valleys, and those like him, are ones that live in the forests that make sure that predator and prey populations of animals are balanced. Not only that, but help stabilize environments." Sam explained and was glad that he had everyone's ear. That the general mood was calming down. "He can set things on fire, that's true, but this time it was an accident. He sometimes grinds his sparker teeth when he sneezes, or in this case, coughs too harshly. He can usually control it. If he wasn't so weak, and something caught on fire, he could put it out before it does any real harm. But, that's uh. That's when he's his natural size. We had to shrink him down from 30 feet tall, to this size so we could transport and hide him easier. Since his skin is thinner, he hurt himself by causing that little fireball. It burned his mouth." Sam was depressed that on top of everything, Dean had to deal with burns. He and Cas slowly uncovered Dean with the tempers calming.
Cas picked up the explanation next. "This specie of Drauglin produces flames because some old growth forests need fire to take down the elder trees that had gotten too large or diseased, making way for new healthy trees to take it's place. Pine cones need excessive heat to open up the seeds and the ash created from the burnt trees gives them nutrients. Your forest is old, but it's still good for another few hundred years before it needs resetting." Cas noted, looking up and around if they were worried Dean was here to burn it down around them. "Drauglin's only take care of their own sections. And do not destroy needlessly. They need these natural defenses because sometimes, there is an overpopulation of predators in an area that lacks their own natural enemies. Bears for example. These creatures evolved to be able to take out anything harmful to their woods. Anything threatening to upset the balance. Sometimes the threats includes monsters that go after humans." Castiel was glad to see that apparently the Knight Sam knew about monsters and he'd shared that information to the leaders he'd brought here. Giving common ground. "Not all Drauglin's are born of Drauglin's. Since they are so rare, the females are able to make new offspring by swallowing an animal whole and alive, laying an egg with her genetic makeup mixed with the new. This is why Dean looks the way he does. His Drauglin mother, for lack of a better term, looked very similar but she was midnight black and sleeker. Dean had freckles and was Caucasian like us, and had green eyes and bowlegs. I know you can't tell from him laying down, but he kept the bowlegs." Cas found himself rambling, turning to Sam.
"Dean and I are monster Hunters, and we were on a hunt for what we thought was a vellum – a nasty monster that kills anything in its territory, but it turned out to be the black Drauglin. I was ignorant of the Dragulin's role and took out her nest. She saw it was a total lose so she took Dean instead to start anew. I only saw a monster and I regret every single one of my actions that day. Our old friend Bobby and I found Dean again but it was too late, he was a toddler Drauglin back then, about the same size as a small horse." Seeing the confused expressions. "Right, you don't have horses. Uh, a large buck. Four feet tall at the shoulder. Anyway. We brought him home, started to raise him but he was kidnapped, tortured and nearly killed several times over. We were able to rescue him from a cage, from people that wanted to kill him for study, and been on the run since. We stopped at a hotel and something happened overnight. Now, any doorway, or gate, we go through, apparently leads to another world. Like yours for example, and theirs." He gestured down at Sam and Oscar who had heard this story before and their feelings on it helped Cerul and Rischa believe and sympathize. They could also tell that this wasn't the first time Sam had to explain things out but it was their first time hearing it and were glad for it.
The voice rumbled on, "So, Dean found their world first, and thought that Sam here was in trouble and brought him to our room. He had been injured on the way there when some plaster rocks fell on him, aggravating an old wound into bleeding. He was never in top shape since we escaped with him from the cage. I'm scared he's..." Sam trailed off, clearing his throat and going back to his story. "Oscar came to fight him to get his little friend back, but well, fighting is not necessary." Sam winked at Oscar who was blushing like mad. "I was talking with Sam after visiting several other worlds where we met other versions of ourselves and other versions of Dean. Giants, tinies and us when we were kids but Dean was the shrunken one. Every world so far centered around my brother and me. I never intended to come here, I was going to show Sam here what vellum tracks look like, how to see clues of their presence so he could learn to find them in his world. When I walked us through a short fence to a lightly wooded dog park, and wound up here instead. Cas followed with Oscar and Dean right after. And I assure you, we can leave the same way. We did not mean to barge in on your world. But, now that we're here..." Sam glanced down to the Knight and Bowman to help him out.
"Like we said," The Knight turned back Cerul and Rischa. "He really needs your help."
Rischa had tears in her eyes. Feeling the pain the two humans and especially Dean were experiencing. Reliving their story. She pushed Bowman from his blocking her, and ran to Dean's side. Hands laying flat on his neck. Dean startled at the sudden contact and turned his head to see.
Bowman had been hot on her heels with the Lords following right after, shocked into action.
With her hands on Dean she could feel it all. She gasped and the tears flowed harder. Such pain. Torment. She'd never experienced so much in one single body before. She opened her eyes when she felt Bowman's hands on her own shoulders realizing that she was hugging the wide neck, half curled into Dean. Cerul was there and laid a hand on Dean's wing shoulder next. He too felt almost overwhelmed. Surprised that this Dean wasn't screaming from the intense pain. He was holding it all in, using all his strength to keep it from showing. His other hand landed on the skin just above the bandage around the foreleg. A soft glow emanating from under his hands that spread under the scaled skin.
Dean whimpered, starting to thrash weakly away from them, away from the strange feelings, but Cas lowered his hand to keep the large brown wings from knocking anyone over. Finally he let out a yowl the same time that the veins lit up under his skin and flesh.
Sam leaned over him as well, casting everyone in shadow. His hand came down in front of Dean's muzzle. "Bite down on this, Dean." He urged and brushed his finger against Dean's nose and winced as the sharp teeth clamped down around the finger, drawing a small amount of blood. It helped transfer some of Dean's pain into Sam. "That's good. You're doing good, Dean." He assured, using his other fingers to stroke along his neck, but keeping free of the sprites that were pouring the strange light into him. He could see Dean's veins light up under the scales, trailing up and down the contact points all over his body. Tracing the path to his wings, tail, legs, everywhere. He prayed that they were doing the right thing. That this wasn't some kind of mercy killing he was witnessing them perform.
Bowman was behind his cousin and his brother came up next. Helping her stay on her feet since all her attention was being put into chanting and praying for the Spirit's healing powers. This was far different than healing a fellow sprite or animal. Dean had been through so much, so many different kinds of pain. They could only heal the physical and it was obvious that Birdie was trying to heal the emotional as well.
Cerul felt it too, and slowed his flow to address her, "Rischa." He said gently, eyes still closed but he faced her. "It's not for us to heal that."
She nodded a few times and squinted out more tears. "I just wish I..."
"It's alright. We just need to make him well enough to heal on his own." And lifted a hand to pat her shoulder. She reluctantly pulled back and concentrated on the blood flow. Boosting the body's ability to produce more from the bone marrow. The physiology was similar enough to an animal's so it was easier for her to find Dean's life force and help it along. Surprised to see that Dean wasn't the only one in this body. Another consciousness was rousing. Now that she was pulled away from his emotions, Dean relaxed a little.
Dean felt the intrusion on his mind and memories, and the Drauglin side was starting to stir. Dean found himself somewhat more lucid then before, still in the dream-state but he could now see his Drauglin laying there under the large tree in their shared Dreamscape. The vast land that used to be their combined forest and cabin playground, had been reduced to one small sad scrubby hill, with a single wilting tree. Their shared favorite tree that was where they met to talk or exchange control over the body. Dean was standing there, in his preferred human form, wearing the same clothes he had when he was taken, and walked over to Dane who was his own preferred size of just 15 feet tall instead of the normal size which is far larger. Dean was grateful his Drauglin half was being considerate to appear more approachable this size, even if Dane had been in some kind of coma this whole time since the hotel.
Dean had to go slow, stumbling on the grass and collapsed next to Dane's side. Watching as the tail of his Drauglin side thrash about in the plants behind it. Dean laid a calming hand on Dane's chest next to him, to reassure him. Dane curled his head around his human counterpart and grumbled.
'Dean? That you?' Dane squinted an eye open. Brow furrowed. Everything around them was narrowed down to this one spot, and nearly black and white. Hardly any color at all.
"Yeah, it's just me, Flame brains." Dean grinned, stroking Dane's foreleg that was injured out in the real world.
'What is going on?' Dane looked up and saw that the sky overhead had arcing streaks of light that glowed like a tree and its numerous thick branches. Not like lightning at all. Hazy around the edges and it pulsed along the same invisible pathways. The forest had been wilting and drab but now started to grow green again.
"I don't know... I think... someone's helping us." Dean watched the pulse get stronger, feeling the air pick up from its stagnated state to allow a nice breeze. The area sprouted trees again, slow at first, like saplings in spring. The air like a gray fog lifting from their vision to reveal their shared forest. Expanding in every direction. Dean lifted his hands, flexing them into fists and back. "You feeling that too?"
Dane curled his long neck around to see Dean better. Spreading the wing that wasn't up against the tree out to shade Dean. He rumble chirped, 'Yeah. It is... not hurting anymore.' And flexed his left leg out along the ground, his left arm going next. 'Get off of me, you heavy biped.' Dane growled and nipped at Dean's leg for the human to stand.
"Keep your pants on." Dean grouched but it sounded teasingly enough to the Drauglin.
'I do not wear pants.' Dane chirped and now that Dean was far enough away, he rocked to his stomach from his side, and got his four legs into position. 'I feel like I hadn't stood up correctly in ages.' He admitted and lifted his front half up first, waiting for the pain to spike up his arm but it didn't come. He looked up at the sky and the pulsing light trails were pounding hard now. The yellow light branches mixing with the now bluing sky and turning it into dazzling rays of light. Dane wasted no time in lifting up his hips next and was standing on all fours. Wings had been draped to either side in case he fell, but he was able to lift the wings up and fold them naturally. Towering over Dean who started laughing joyfully. 'Son of a bitch.' Dane breathed.
"You stole my line!" Dean crowed and came forward to hug Dane's chest. His head not even making it to the Drauglin's shoulder but neither cared. Dane brought over his right arm and held the small biped against himself. Bowing his long head and neck down in their version of a hug.
The sky's light show slowed and they both looked up. A rumble of thunder in the blue sky. The pulse familiar now that the light tree had gone from the vibrant blue sky.
Dane turned his head to the side, his side fan ears spreading at the next rumble and looked down to the short biped. 'They're asking for you.'
Dean looked up past Dane's long muzzle and frowned. "But.. are you...?"
'I will be fine.' Dane let go of Dean and sat down again. 'I do not know who is out there, and I think I do not want to know just yet.' He chirped sniffing the air. 'Smells... weird. I do not know what those are, but it is like... plants and earth and people all in one.' Dean furrowed his brow. One of Dean's memories filtered through their shared head and he knew Dean would find it humorous. 'Have fun with Treebeard and the Ents. And make sure they know that we didn't mean to set their kin on fire.' He growled seriously and motioned to the woods around them. 'Good luck.' he chirped playfully, and pushed at Dean's chest with his nose. 'Tell them Thanks, for me.'
"I will." Dean promised and stepped back from his Drauglin half. "I'll make sure to let them know that it's your fault we can only eat meat. I'm sure those vegetarians will love hearing that!"
'You stupid biped, we share the same body!' Dane called back to Dean's retreating form. 'You eat more meat then I do!'
"What? I can't hear y-" he called back with a smile on his voice till he dissipated backwards out of the Dreamscape and into the waking world.
Dane rolled his eyes before standing to stretch again. Flapping his wide wings in the strong winds that he wanted to face. He bared his teeth at in in glee and took to the sky. Flying hard and fast and crowing with thanks to the helpful beings above.
Dean felt all kinds of points of contact on his scales, all of them soft and gentle. Something that had bound his arm and leg was now being taken off, a tugging sensation followed by a tingling of fresh air on his skin. He cautiously flexed his hand and foot, feeling the freedom of motion. He tentatively sniffed the air and that same strange scent was still there. Next he smelled Sammy... and a different Sam scent... and another? What the hell? He inhaled the air again and could tell Cas was all around him, his warm scent calming him down along with his huge brother's presence nearby. His lungs didn't burn when he took a deep breath. Fully expecting them to since they had for so long. His mouth tasted like burnt ash but it no longer stung. Another few deep breaths and he was glad that the first easy breath wasn't a fluke. He genuinely felt better.
"Dean?" Sam said, hand stroking along his neck and it was much smaller then Dean was used to. He lifted up his heavy eyelids and saw his brother's face nearby but frowned when he saw another Sam right next to him. 'Double vision. Perfect.' Dean grumbled, blinking hard to get rid of the sight but was confused as hell when the two images just looked at each other and one came closer to run light fingers along the bridge of his nose. The other Sam wore tan and hung back.
"Is he alright?" A young girl's voice came from the ground and Dean turned his head to see that the small child was laying there on some leaves, breathing hard as if she'd been hurt or exhausted.
'Are you alright?' He asked, worried that he'd somehow hurt her, and turned to see her fully, blinking at the fact that her image wasn't split in two like Sam's was. He heard a loud voice above.
"He'd asking if you're alright Miss. Rischa." Cas. That was Cas speaking.
'What happened?' Dean asked, sniffing at her for injury or pain but wasn't getting much for feelings. Brow furrowing at that. He can detect human emotions pretty easily but her's were muted. Still there, but, not as strong.
She sat upright and smiled wide at seeing and feeling Dean's concern for her. "I'm good, Dean." She said informally and someone came up behind her, lifting her up and Dean's eyes went wide when those large leaves she was laying on were attached to her back. They were wings. He blinked dumbly at her and she fluttered them at him. "I'm a Wood sprite who has the Voice." She explained to the question she felt on his mind. "We healed you." She continued and reached forward to pet at his nose.
He stilled his knee jerk reaction to back up from the strange girl's approach. Her sweet expression and movements were clearly a kids, and he did not want to hurt some very small kid. Even if they didn't really look human, and were talking about being able to actually heal people. It screamed supernatural but he felt that she wasn't dangerous. Just a kid. So he kept still and let her pet his long nose and up past his eyebrow ridge to curl tiny fingers around his sidefan ears. Scratching behind the folds of his left sidefan, like one would scratch a pet dog's ear, and he twitched them, surprised it felt kinda good but also tickled. He blinked at her owlishly. Movement caught his eyes and he saw several more of the same kinds of creatures right there. Shrinking back he wondered what they wanted from him. Surrounded on nearly all sides. Just because this little girl was kind, doesn't mean they all were.
'What's going on?' He asked again when he definitely saw two different Sam's standing there. Not a double since their clothes were way different. Another short man with wild mouse brown hair, standing behind the one in a tan jacket and bag, while the other Sam had on a green outfit that looked straight out of Lord of the Rings. A sword at Sam's side. He tore his eyes away to see two older men that just screamed authority figures from Rivendell. The urge to insist he's not Smaug was great.
Dean gulped a little at the wave of emotions coming from everyone. Assessing everyone and their motives, looking at the one that was behind the young girl, this guy had crazy green hair and was younger then Sam seemed alright. No sudden moves. The Sam that was wearing the green outfit had a sword and appeared to know how to use it. It made Dean a little nervous since sharp knives and swords could easily get past his scales where blunt forces and fires didn't work so well. If they wanted to take him out, it would be easy. This Sam, just like the other one, was also far younger then he should be. Memories coming back to him of at least the tan jacketed borrower Sam and the short dude, Oscar who were standing a little ways off. Giving the green squad room. His observations cut off with one of the regal dudes spoke up, halting the mean looking leader dude in his tracks when he started to get closer.
"Let him process this, Scar." He said calmly and when Dean narrowed his gaze on him, the regal dude bowed slightly. The first one to properly introduce himself. "I am Lord Cerul, of Wellwood." Dean stared at him before realizing he should probably answer back.
'Dean. Of uh, Kansas.' He rumble chirped and heard Cas's voice translate for him over head. Looking up and grinning widely at him, spotting his Sam sitting right there as well. 'Hey guys. So uh, what's up with uh, fairyland?'
Sam gave him a mild bitchface. "Lord Cerul and Miss. Rischa here healed you. You nearly died, Dean." The rest of it didn't have to be said, 'Show them some respect, Jerk.'
Dean turned back to the small gathering of Sam's and green winged people and said, 'Thanks. For uhm healing me and stuff. I guess I owe you one.' And Sam translated it with slightly more embellishments. Always was better at talking with people.
"Our pleasure." Cerul nodded and introduced the rest of the group, sensing the continued confusion. "This is Lord Scar, high General of Wellwood, and his Knight's are gathered around us to ensure everyone's safety." He said to reiterate the point that they were not there to fight. "This is one of them, you might recognize him. Sam Winchester, Knight of Wellwood."
Dean saw the mixed expressions in that Sam's eyes. Like he hadn't seen him in awhile. Memories of the other borrower Sam coming back saying that he and his Dean had been separated for over a decade, apparently this one hadn't met back up with his brother yet. Dean gulped audibly. So much longing in those hazel eyes. He had no idea what to say to him. The Lord Cerul dude continued on.
"This is one of our honorable patrol sprites, Bowman Leafwing." Bowman took the opportunity to hold out his hand as introduction, as he'd seen his brother do a few times before, and Dean turned to his side to offer his own huge clawed hand. Bowman marveled at it before grabbing hold of the fore paw that was much larger then he anticipated and shook it using both of his hands. The weight of that one paw was nearly too much for the willowy figure. His wings twitched with strain before he dropped the paw again. Dean huffed a few laughs at that. Turning to the girl as she was introduced next.
"And this is my apprentice of sorts, another healer with the Voice, like myself who helped save your life. Rischa Songbird."
"Hi!" She chirped at him and did not hesitate to jump forward and hug his neck. He leaned to the side enough to bring a wing around to hug her back as gently as possible. His size alone could overpower her if he moved wrong.
Bowman blushed at his young cousin's behavior and came forward to collect her again. "Birdie..." He playfully admonished and pat Dean's wing wrist before it retreated. "Birdie's always like this."
'No problem.' Dean chirped back. Playfully nudging her side with the side of his long nose. She was so tiny compared to him. Just a few inches tall. Most of these people here didn't go past four inches tall, and he knew he was about six. So he stayed more or less laying down to be more eye level.
"And I believe you know the others?" Cerul asked and Dean nodded back.
'Oh yeah, we go way back.' He chirped. Turning to the Sam in the tan jacket. 'Sorry I kidnapped you, Sam.' His brother translated overhead and the kid came over to punch his cheek. The next instant waving his curled fingers about in the air because it was a totally dumbass idea to go punching dragons with thick scaled hides. 'Ok. Now we're even?' His head cocked to the side and watched as Sam hugged his hurt knuckles to his stomach. A mighty string of curses on his lips begging to be let out. 'Even.' He grinned slyly and turned to Oscar. 'I don't remember kidnapping you though... I was going to, but passed out.'
Castiel filled in the blank for Dean. "He came to take Sam back."
'Oh. Well, yeah.' Dean felt uncomfortable, shifting in place. 'Sorry.' He mumbled and lifted up his hand for a handshake with Oscar, but the poor guy hid behind Sam again. 'Right. Gotcha.' Dean felt worse for scaring him. Clearing his throat awkwardly. He hated being the center of attention. It sucked. It was his fault all this happened in the first place. 'I just want to say, I'm sorry. Everyone.' Standing up and folding up his wings tightly to his sides. Seeing everyone take several cautious steps back. Accepting that reaction since it's one he's gotten over and over again. 'So I guess... we should get going?' He asked his huge brother.
Sam didn't have to read his mind to get that Dean was already beating himself up again.
'Don't.' Dean growled upwards. 'I don't need your pity or sad eyes, Sam. I caused this.' And started walking away. No particular direction. Just away. He saw nothing but forest all around. Beyond the first few trees his gaze picked up on several of the Knight's that Cerul guy mentioned. 'Are they going to fight me if I try and leave?' He asked over his shoulder and Cerul came flying over, past the two humans who had remained sitting but turned.
"I can't understand your speech but I can feel what you're feeling." He said, landing in front of Dean. His hands up in a peaceful stance. "Your human brother explained it to us. What you'd gone through."
'What I caused.'
"What you tried to do." Cerul clarified.
Dean huffed at him in irritation and strode past. Dean was able to detect where his brother and boyfriend had came into the clearing, intent on following the scent trail back to civilization. Wherever that is. He had no memory of a random forest like this one near the motel. It was too warm here for one thing. For another, there were all these leaf winged dudes flying around with yet another one of his younger brothers. So, obviously another world altogether. Awesome.
Cerul took to the air again, landing in front of Dean and folding his arms.
Dean bared his teeth for a moment and heard several Knight's pull their swords out. Eyes darting up and around while still facing the sprite blocking his exit. 'You gonna keep me here? You heal me up just so you can hold me against my will?'
Cerul looked upset and sad at the barrage of feelings accompanying those questioning growls. Anger, betrayal, but above all, fear. Dean was putting up a front of pissed off monster but really, he was terrified of being restrained again. It hit Cerul like someone knocked him from the sky. His hands that had been folded covered his heart. He heard tiny fast footsteps coming up behind and was soon joined by Rischa.
"Please don't be scared Dean!" She cried up at his towering form. Bowman was right there a second later, holding onto her arms. Not two seconds later, the green Sam was there as well, holding up his hands to keep him back followed by the tan jacket Sam doing the same. Dean turned to see that Oscar too was debating if he should confront him, keep him from leaving.
Dean was starting to feel cornered and let out a low growl a the lot of them. 'Don't come any closer.' He warned, wings unfolding. Everyone stopped their advance. His wingspan was over twice theirs, no telling how fast he could fly. If he would try and escape them that way.
"Dean?" The Knight said, hands going up again. "It's alright. We just wanted to help. No one is going to keep you here."
Dean flared his nostrils at him, scenting the air and got a whole muzzle full of concern and worry coming at him. It baffled him to no end. Sure that he wasn't getting that right. He honestly had no idea how to respond to that. Not wanting to hurt this Sam's feelings any more. He's probably looking at this like a rejection. Like his big brother doesn't want him anymore. 'Sammy.' Dean sighed. Head drooping down to stare at the ground before turning to him. 'I hope you find your Dean. I'm not him. I can't help you.' All the while he heard either Cas or Sam helping him translate, the ones on the ground looking timidly up at the humans when they spoke.
Dean folded up his wings again, the ones on the ground folded theirs as well, Dean had no doubt in his mind that since they were born with wings, they'd be far better fliers then him. He was still getting the hang of it since for most of this Drauglin life, it had been the hybrid in charge. He and Dane only recently split up inside the mind, the hybrid dispersing into both, but at the same time, neither of them. Dane was always the better flier. Dean was still scared of heights. He would fly if he had to, but preferred not to. Besides all that, it would be very hard for him to follow the trail Sam and Cas left on the ground while he's flying high enough to avoid running into the many trees, bushes, and grasses. These, sprite guys, or whatever, would surround him before he even got started.
Dean turned to see everyone's eyes still glued on him and he shrugged his wing shoulders. 'Fine. You got me. Now what?' Giving up was the only logical thing to do. Neither his brother or boyfriend were looking like they wanted to leave yet, so he'd have no chance up against all these Knight's solo.
"They don't intend on keeping us, Dean." Castiel said and reached over to drape his right hand around Dean's side. Thumb stroking along his spine.
'But he wants me to stay.' Dean pointed at the Knight Sam. 'I can't be the brother he deserves.'
"You don't have to." Cas pet his side some more, angling his fingers to lift him off of the ground and bring him back over to look him in the eyes. "What we can do, is thank them for saving your life. Because none of us wanted you dead."
Dean felt bad all over again. Ditching those that helped him out. He not only nearly got himself killed, he almost got Dane killed as well. He promised that flame brained bastard that he'd get him home, rescue his mother from the military. They weren't done with their story yet. He squirmed a little and Cas let him back down.
Dean sat still, watching as the group came back over with careful steps. Like anything was going to set him off and running. 'Hey, listen. I uh, sorry I was being a dick. I appreciate you guys uh, saving Dane's life. My life.' He bowed his head at them and stayed like that for a few long seconds. Just to make sure that they got his message. 'I'm just a hot mess.' He admitted to the ground and looked back up again when he heard them get closer.
"No problem." City Sam said. Instead of punching him again, he just held out a fist for a bump. Sam hoped that in 2017 they were still doing fist bumps, because Dean was just sitting there, staring at his raised fist. He was about to lower it again, cheeks burning when the massive wing was brought forward with that long clawed thumb curled inwards, punching that, the wing opened wide and Sam copied the motion with a goofy grin. Biggest fist bump explosion ever. He turned to pull Oscar forward next who was wide eyed and protesting the whole way over but was propped up in front of the tall dragon. Sam had to gently manhandle Oscar's fist out and Dean waited patiently for it to do it all again, but this time both wings blew out wide and nearly gave Oscar a heart attack.
'Oh you are too fun little dude.' Dean grinned wide and brought both wings forward to hug Oscar's sides who stood stock still like Dean was going to crush him between the strong bent wing wrists. Dean just wriggled him side to side before letting go and backing up before Oscar did.
Dean heard the little girl come up next and hold out her hand flat and Dean chuckled, showing her how to fist bump and he grinned at the Knight showing her how. Hearing the humans amusement above them all at the new method of shaking hands. Instead of doing the normal bump, Rischa jumped into the air and hovered in front of Dean
"Wings!" She cried out, excitedly and Dean lifted his own and held them forward and splayed and she slapped them both with her own a few times while hovering there. "Fly with me!" She said and circled around Dean.
'I'm not very good at hovering...' Dean started but the adorable little girl was already doing loops in the air. Bowman took to the air next and hovered nearby. Unsure if he wanted to either bring his cousin back down or join in. Dean was feeling better and better. The mood going from depressing to energetic. Teasing. He always liked kids and they don't get much younger then these. He opened up his wings and loved the feel of there being no aches or pains there, or anywhere. Flapping a few times he was able to get some air underneath him. Thankfully, since they were all over the coat, there wasn't any dirt or dust kicked up, but the fabric did ripple. Dean landed a second later, after seeing the Knight look up all wistfully at the flying people.
Dean saw Sam's whole story in that one moment. This Sam grew up with the sprites. The only one out of all of them that doesn't have wings. Who couldn't ever fly. Couldn't join in. Well, Dean can do something about that. At least for today. He came over to the Knight and hunched his front half down, pushing the green Knight over to his shoulders with his curled wing. 'Get on Sammy, we got a race to win.'
The Knight was startled at the unexpected contact and didn't have to speak the language to understand what Dean wanted and backed up a step. "Whoa, no that's ok, maybe the other Sam?" Both turned to see the city Sam back up, waving his hands in front of himself like, 'No fucking way'. And Oscar was just plain missing.
Dean nodded with self satisfaction and heard the two Lords off to the side hunkering down with his humans. 'Come on Sammy, one lap around.' Dean wiggled his wings and Sam sighed heavily hair falling in his face. Annoyed but Dean could totally smell the excitement coming from the little green dude. Looks like this Sam's allergic to a good haircut as well. Sam tugged at his waist and Dean was about to say something about it but his brother from another world was just taking off his sword and knife, letting them fall to the ground before hoisting himself up onto Dean's back, sitting on the space between the four shoulders, and his small hands alternating between holding onto the neck or the spikes along the spine. Obviously looking for a way to hold on. Dean trotted over to the borrower Sam, making the Knight bounce along and clutch on tighter.
Thankfully his brother knew what Dean was looking for and pulled one of the paperclips he carries around for makeshift lock picks. Bending it into a good shape and Dean didn't hesitate to slip his head through it.
Surprising the borrower Sam because he remembered Dean's freakout in the hotel with the 'collar'. He felt like he should wait till after Dean leaves to let his human friend know about that part of their initial meeting. The trust these two have... so much like he and his own brother.
The Knight excitedly took the proffered 'handle' and held on tight as Dean wasted no more time getting a running start off of the ground.
Rischa and Bowman were looping around the area and found themselves being approached by a huge flying Drauglin. Both cried out in surprise as the massive wings beat the air down and Dean got some height to the flight. Sam felt the powerful muscles of the wings and back, flexing and pushing the air. Following the air currents and creating his own since he was so much bigger then the sprites. Dean banked to the side in a wide loop and Sam leaned into it as well, helping out. Feeling out the body's motions underneath him and learning how to work with them. A thrill he had never felt before. This wasn't passive gliding, this was going wherever he wanted to go. Dean took to his polite nudgings instantly. Sam turned the handle to the left and they went left, right, they went right. And Dean kept on going, chirping encouragements at him.
When Dean saw Bowman and the girl dart through the trees he turned his head and winked at his passenger. Sam pushed at Dean's chest below him with his heels and got the go-ahead to fly as fast as he could after the two green dots. Catching up to them in no time. Dean pushed himself farther and faster. Loving this feeling. The freedom, the joy coming from this young Sam. Like old times when he and his brother played around. Dean needed this as much as this Sam did apparently, and they dove down with a frightening speed, daring Bowman and Rischa to keep up, banking to the side and back up, following Sam's suggestions and Dean found himself flying better then he had before. The heights became less scary, more thrilling. He'd never go above the trees, but this, this was awesome.
Bowman angled his flight on back towards Jacob's clearing and Rischa followed suit. Dean took a few seconds to find them again and Sam helped him navigate on back. Living with sprites meant that he could spot them in the forest better. Dean was getting exhausted but it was so worth it. Sam pat the wide neck in front of him. "Thanks." He said and Dean winked and chirped back. They saw that the Lords and borrowers and humans were already talking about something and went to join them. Dean nearly crash landed because he was not used to flying, let alone landing. Sam had a good death grip on the metal loop and stayed on top as Dean's wings beat forward to reduce the momentum. Landing hard and panting harder.
'Oh that was fun.' Dean huff laughed between the fast breaths. He looked to the other Sam and said, 'Gimme a second to catch my breath then we can go.' Getting the same declining answer back. He wouldn't force him but pouted all the same. Sam peeled his hands off of the ring and slid down to the ground. Stumbling on the cloth surface and a grin plastered to his face. 'Had fun?' Dean chirped, mimicking flying and tilting his head so Sam could read the body language.
"That was awesome." Sam said, wiping his brow and leaning on Dean's side. Helping him out of the metal loop. "So... so awesome."
Dean closed his eyes demurely, wingtips fluttering like a butterfly, and nodded politely like a southern belle, before flopping down where he'd stood with his legs kicked out behind him, toes curled to the sky. Wings fanning out to cool off. Bowman and Rischa were sitting on the t-shirt that had been his nest and when Dean looked over, they both let themselves fall backwards into its soft folds, laughing when Sam went to go join his adoptive family. How many times would they get the chance to jump around in such a huge soft nest? 'Little punks stole my bed!' Dean said, utterly affronted and snickered at the muffled laughter.
Dean aimed his attention to the others who all but ignored the goofing around. Cas was glad Dean had some fun with the younger ones. 'What's up?' He chirped and Cas made sure there were no small people in the way before he scooted closer to Dean. Everyone stopped talking for those few moments, staring upwards at the giant who shook the ground and put them all into shadow for that short time. Cas didn't seem to notice, putting all his attention on not moving the coat nearly everyone had claimed as a picnic blanket or rumpus room. It's gonna need a good washing to get out the grass stains and tiny footprints. The scientist side of him looked at all of the evidence of the tiny people but shrugged internally. There was no point saving evidence if it could put them in danger of being discovered. He'd wash it the second they're back home.
Now sitting next to Dean again, Cas stroked his spine, using his index and middle finger to massage the wing shoulders and upper back. Dean groaned at the ministrations and his brother hid a blush, knowing full well the relationship they'd had established. Cas informed Dean that they were once again discussing the differences in their civilizations and he'd found it very fascinating, the sprites too got some good ideas for irrigating crops if they wished and harnessing waterwheels for the streams natural power. Sam had tried to describe other innovations they could use and the sprites were trying to explain their own methods of handling problems. Mainly using magic that was gifted from their spirit. That opened up a can of worms where the Sam's were talking about how it is or isn't like their ideas of spirits and elementals. Finally, Scar had to put an end to the talk or they'd be there forever. Cerul conceded defeat, if left to it, he could talk to the new humans for days. But, their Knight's still in hiding probably want to get back home at some point.
Oscar spoke up, "I'm still trying to wrap my head around an entire village of people our size out here."
Cerul and Scar looked at each other, considering but deciding against it for the moment.
"We would invite you all in, but I'm afraid our citizens might be a bit overwhelmed with so many new people." Cerul said diplomatically. "Perhaps if you come again, we could show you around."
Oscar waved his hands in front of himself. "That's ok! I'm good... this is already, uhmmm. Not to be rude! But this is more people then I see in... well, ever. I'll be fine here. Or home. Home's better." He mumbled, wringing his hands on his simple clothes. Reminding him of something they'd talked about earlier. "Oh! Uh, Sam?" He looked up at the human who leaned in closer to hear the timid voice clearer. Oscar shrank back a little before finding his courage again to address such a huge giant. "The armor? We need to uh, Bowman said..." He stammered trying to find the best way of saying, hand over the silver. Without being bossy about it.
Thankfully Sam got the basic idea and pulled out the silver plates and tiny bent sheets along with the sword and knife. Oscar still had a sliver of one knife that he held in a very loose grip so they wouldn't think he was threatening them with the tiny shard. Sam placed it in front of Oscar who then handed over to Cerul. "These are a thank you. From us for helping out our friend. I feel responsible for this because I was the one that intruded into their room first. I hope the metal helps." He was able to say without stuttering or shaking too much. Hoping that with their expertise, they could form them into proper swords and knives. He would have handed it to Scar directly but he was quite imposing. Cerul felt Oscar's fears and casually handed it over to his friend. Grinning appreciatively at Oscar for the generous gift.
"These are amazing." Scar said, holding them up to the light. "It would have taken years to smelt this much metal from rock." Handling the crude sword. It was far heavier then what he was used to, and he knew it could be remelted into a better shape. Putting it to good use. Probably making even three smaller thinner swords from this one piece of metal. "We could make at least two dozen very fine blades from all of this metal." Looking up to Oscar with a wide grin. "Thank you Sir Knight." Bowing down to Oscar who went wide eyed and red cheeked at all the attention.
"No..n-no problem. G-glad to help!" He stuttered out and fingered at the buttons and straps. "Could you use these too?" He slipped off his button armor and got some impressed sounds from the others, shedding them eagerly now that he knew that these people could use them more then him. Buttons were actually easier to find since people were always loosing them in the rooms. Overstuffed bagged luggage popping the buttons, or from old worn shirts. Oddly enough, they were never in short supply. "They could be melted into other things... I find many uses for them just like they are."
Sam had met sprites before in his own world, dealing with a Lich and zombie wolves, so he knew all about Wellwood and it's inhabitants. He didn't mention his previous visit because they were already tense about strangers and might get the wrong idea. That he had been some kind of spy. So he kept it to himself, and knew that since they were so isolated out here, that they hadn't been exposed to too many human inventions. Only what Jacob had shown them. That visit happened in these two worlds, he wondered briefly if Jacob was always destined to meet Bowman and himself, and if the colossal Jacob from the Impala visit would even be able to see Bowman in his forest. A spike of fear at the idea that that was Bowman's forest the giant was stomping though.
Sam shook out the thought. It might not have been... he hoped. Coming back to the conversation since that Cerul guy was giving him some serious stares. Right. Empath. Can sense he's worried about something so he goes right back to explaining what these round disks are with holes in them. Handing over one of the buttons Oscar had shed while his mind was worlds away. Sam informed, "These are called buttons, humans use them to close their clothes." Pointing up at Sam's flannel over shirt that hung open. "Well, usually. I know some people back home that use them as wheels to help move things. Sturdier and smoother then ones we made ourselves out of wood."
At seeing how much the sprites oohed and awwed at Oscar's small amount of silver and hearing how much the metal would help with defensive weapons, he wanted to assist as well. They healed his brother for crying out loud. Brought him back from near death! He owes them everything. Sam used a discrete finger to get the head sprite's attention. Cerul flew up and landed on Sam's shoulder, and that would never be normal for either of them, to help keep this chat somewhat private while Castiel talked to Scar about what chemicals can be found in nature and what they can be used for. Sam whispered out of range of the ones still on the ground. "I have some change in my pocket I'd like to give you too, but I don't want to steal Oscar's thunder."
"You can harness thunder?" Cerul stepped back and gaped at that bold proclamation.
Sam gave a surprised snort. "Figure of speech." And dug around his pocket, waiting for the ones on the ground to all look away before opening up his hand and showing off the handful of nickles, quarters and pennies. "The silver is better, can be used against were's of all kinds and other monsters. These are just regular coins. Sam can tell you what each ones made of, I hope they help." And being careful not to make the change clink against each other too much, he put the handful of coins at the base of the tree he was sitting against, winking at Cerul who was at a loss for words before composing himself and gave a deep respectful bow.
"Wellwood is grateful to you."
"I'd totally give more if I had it. I don't think Cas has any metal to speak of." He didn't mention the ring of keys to the Impala. They needed those. Even if the car's door led to a land of giants at the moment... Eventually, they'll be able to drive baby again.
"That's more then enough. We would have helped anyway. Sam is an honorable Knight, as are you."
Sam rolled his eyes at that and Cerul gave a stern look. "You doubt your own self worth." He stated. Sighing. What is it with Sam's (plural). Looking down at the others from his shoulder perch. "You are all honorable, brave warriors. You deserve good things." He said and flew back down before Sam could protest the statement.
The sun was setting and everyone had a long trek home. So Sam stood up to his impressive six foot four inch height and popped his back against the tree he'd leaned against. He hid a grin at the murmurs all around them from the circle of Knight's that would surely split up to make sure that these guests made it safely back to the gate. Sam and Bowman debated if they wanted to say their goodbyes here or at the gate. They had traveled far that day but what's one more trip? How often do they get visitors here? Besides, they never did get around to reading that sign on the other side or inspecting their section for weak spots like they were supposed to. So Knight Sam prepared his glider, aiming towards the gate again. Sam offered to be a drop off platform once again and got the city boys back into his shirt pocket. Cas threw on his trench coat instead of having to carry it. Having both humans standing made Cerul and Scar feel slightly intimidated when they remained standing on the ground so they took to the air and hovered around the human's heads.
Dean dismissed the offer for his mate to carry him back, stretching out his wings and his fully healed legs. Completely ready for round two. 'Sammy.' He chirped upwards, 'Gonna show little Sammy how it's done.' Was all the warning anyone got when the Drauglin took off on a run, flying in a wide loop around the clearing and Bowman took off after, laughing at finally having some worthy competition. Now that Dean didn't have to worry about passengers, he was able to flip upside down and around as well. The dragon was much larger then the sprites, and the wingspan stretched far wider, but he was no match for Bowman's speed or accuracy. Teaching the dragon a few tricks while Sam got to his glider in a hurry, waving for the human to get him up into the air before he was left behind. Human Sam bent down and lifted up the Knight as high as he could and got twin shocked expressions from the Lords at the swiftness of it all, and trust that the Knight had in his human counterpart.
"Go Sam!" Sam shouted and with his large thumbs on the sturdiest parts of the glider, he shot Sam forward to give him that needed boost of speed. The glider hovered and wobbled at the unexpected launch but Bowman was right there a second later to hoist his older brother back up into the right air-stream. Dean was flapping hard to get underneath him to glide at the same pace, forming a mirror image like Sam was going over a lake.
Scar and Cerul looked on in amusement. Scar spoke up to the ones within hearing range, "May the Spirit smile on your journey."
Castiel bowed his head respectfully and said, "And you as well." Because he had no idea what was acceptable for a parting phrase but that seemed alright as the two Lords turned and left, taking with them an impressive amount of knights who appeared out of the woods and all flew in silent rank. Cas's eyes boggled at the discipline and number of them. Grateful it never came to a fight because they obviously had the advantage. He pat Sam's shoulder who turned as well but they were all gone. Every green soldier dissipated entirely into the woods. "Let's go home."
"Right." Sam agreed.
Rischa giggled and played tag with her brothers and Dean, as Sam and Cas started walking, watching and enjoying Dean having fun with people closer to his size and showing him the ropes on how to fly. After they were tuckered out and panting from races and agility tests, Sam landed the glider and noticed that they were already nearly at the fence. Sam lifted up his shorter self, glider and all and carried him along while Bowman landed on the shoulder. Castiel bent over to pick up Dean and carried him in his arms as they headed home. Dean was panting but grinning sidefan ear to sidefan ear. Happy to be healthy and to head back home.
They reached the gate and had to make their goodbyes quick so Sam, Bowman and Rischa could make it home before it was too dark to see. It would be too dangerous to try flying at night, attracting owls and night predators. Thankfully, resting on the humans gave them their strength back for the trip home. And they could tell that they weren't truly alone when Sam spotted a few of his fellow Knights still in hiding. The sun was lower then expected so he'll have to come back later to do his inspection, if it hadn't already been done by the other Knights.
Sam was carefully launched back into the air now that he was rested, and looped around in the glider, clearly sad to see Dean go, even if it wasn't his Dean. At least they got to spend some time with one version. He hoped to see his brother again. He waved them goodbye as he angled the glider back to Wellwood. Bowman gave the giant Sam one last teasing tug of his long hair before heading back as well.
"Don't be strangers!" He called back but they all knew it likely wouldn't happen. It couldn't be helped. None of them would see each other again once they got the alternate reality portal thing sorted out. This time spent was fun while it lasted.
Sam stepped towards the fence and before he even got there, felt the air shifting around him, getting cooler out. Two steps for him were all it took to pass through the invisible portal, and run right into the short fence that belonged to the playground, opening it up and leaving the fenced in area of the dog park, turning just in time to watch Castiel and Dean pass through a few seconds later, holding the short gate open for them. Sam closed it firmly and looked back into the lightly wooded area. Kicking himself for not showing Sam Vellum tracks that whole time. Shaking his head in disbelief. Well, he could just try again with some trees that did not have any kind of gate or door or pathway leading to them. Avoiding the alternate universe where they are all some kind of animals or something.
Castiel heard some children playing at the park close-by and realized that it was still daylight out, a few hours had passed in 2017. Concurrent to the time spent in that other world. He wondered if it was the same for the Wellwood residents after they'd left. If that world had reset back to the moment before Sam and he intruded into it. If that was the case, those sprites wouldn't even know they'd been there at all. Forgetting now that they're gone. It was a sobering and sad thought. He wasn't about to go back to see if the idea was right or wrong. It might just lead them to some other world, or have negative consequences. It wasn't worth the dangerous risk. Even though Castiel was still buzzing with all new questions, he kept them mostly to himself, holding Dean closer to his belly, covering with the coat, to keep the chill off of him.
Sam led the way back to the motel, tired and hungry. Sure that Cas and Dean were the same. They'd need a good meal in them before they tried any more alternate universe hopping. After all, the day's not over yet, they still need to find the Knights Inn.