Authors Note(s): First of all, a tribute, to Jim Beaver who played Bobby Singer on our favorite hunting brothers TV show. TV Guide spoilers have confirmed that Jim Beaver is indeed done with Supernatural hence so is his character, hunter and father figure extraordinaire Bobby. Rumors from the network claim that he'll be back in some form or another, but at this point I'm not holding my breath anymore. I've done that enough really. Sigh. He will surely be missed by me and as I'm sure by many of us here. Thanks for seven years of awesomeness Jim. You will truly be a missing aspect in this show as well as its development. Hope to keep you alive here, as all us writers do. I shall go live in my denial now lol. :)

On a more personal note, I'm very sorry this chapter took so long to get out. This story and I kind of had a bit of a falling out and after some careful planning and re-write and grammar corrections along with any spelling mistakes throughout this thing (they won't be posted till later since they're small), I found myself ready to continue and hence finally finish this chapter up. I hope it did you all some justice since I'm really quite proud of it even if it didn't pan out as originally planned. And for those of you who read already, yes I had posted the first 3500 words of this but after two days took it down cause let's face it, my muse can be a real prude lol. I am forever at her servitude. Kind of like a crossroads contract. :P Also, another character introduction here. Two actually, and it's the final ones.

And finally, special notes to point out on soundtracks (you can skip this if you can't read with music playing lol; I find it helps): All Along the Watchtower by Jimi Hendrix obviously represents the beginning with Legion. Don't know why, but this song really hit me up when I was writing him in the beginning. All the Way For You by Poets of the Fall will be for the final scene between Castiel and Gabriel. It'll become obvious as you read and listen to it should you do. Buried Beneath by RED follows directly after that with Dean, Castiel and Gabriel, and the final desperate sacrifice. Again, will become obvious once you get to that part. As for the final track, Holding On and Letting Go by Ross Copperman, this pretty much represents the end of the fight and brings the entire ordeal full circle here. At least it did for me. I can thank Apollo199199 for introducing me to three of the four, Scoobert0 for showing me 'Buried Beneath' and finally WhatTheFuckHaveYouDoneLately for 'This is War'. This was the soundtrack that actually got my muse to go back and actually finish this while Buried Beneath gave me the incentive to go through with what was actually planned. The tones were perfect, and so they got me back into the mood I needed. Thank you again for all the support. I hope I didn't bore you. Now go off and enjoy what I hope is a piece of epicness in your eyes. It certainly got under my skin. Allons-y. :)

Written: 27 December

Soundtrack(s): All Along the Watchtower by Jimi Hendrix, All the Way For You by Poets of the Fall, Buried Beneath by RED, Holding On and Letting Go by Ross Copperman

Special Soundtrack: This is War by 30 Seconds to Mars (entire chapter)

Word Count: 13400+

"For I verily, absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed,…"

Corinthians 5:3 – The Bible

Chapter 26

Anger. Rage. Jealousy. Sorrow. Hate. Envy. Pride. All emotions we carry, and all emotions that we flush. They can bring us pain, they can bring us justice, they can even enact revenge and enable us on a path that we cannot turn around from. They are but a vice, an excuse in which to use to actually act upon ourselves, to gain what it is we want, and to show what it is we feel. It is only but a veil, to cover up our truths and our lies and our misdeeds. We find it makes it easier, when in fact it makes it harder. We drive ourselves down this path, and it's one we can't come back from.

The ultimate evil now walks our lands, and now it graces our laps.

It's curtain call.

It's our time.

The form he took was one of insult. One of turmoil and one of suffering. It is but a misery, and he graced it now with one of despair. He cherished it, loved it, couldn't help the smile that creased his face as he took in all their looks. He was taunting them, egging them, begging them to make a move and get it over with so that he could start the slaughter. Dean would give the most, this he didn't need to pry to know, and it was him that he focused on in his attempt to kill them all. Dean was the leader, the Chosen One, and it was he that would start the collapse. The first domino to topple that would bring with him all the others. All he needed was for him to fold, and the others would fall as well.

He took but one step forward off the pyre, graciously making his way down the chiseled stone steps and keeping gaze at the ground until he met with their piercing eyes. His hands now lined his pockets, simple fists now clenched inside and toothless smile still flashing his features. He had been ready for this, waiting for it, and the opportunity had finally come. It was time to show the one and true God, just exactly where to shove it, and he would do it with his one and only golden toy. It was Dean, had been the entire time, and if there was any way to show God just how much he didn't control it all…

…this was the perfect way to do it.

…

He finally stops, walking just feet past the final step and looks onward, taking on every angel and warrior and leader graced with celestial intent. He knows their purpose, can feel the goals radiating from their hearts, and only deems to smile teasingly at the foolishness. It's an empty faith they hold, a mockery of that in which they usually have when knowledge of their Father's presence is real, but in his absence, it would seem that some of that faith has been lost. It is his perfect opportunity to lash out on them, and it is in He that he will crush their spirits. It will begin with Dean, as has always been the plan. The soul inside him feels this, and only manages to curl in despair. It actually makes him happy, to know what he will do, and it only makes him angry, to know what he cannot…

It is he that he will crush first. With the greatest weapon he has yet to show.

"You know Dean, I expected more of a 'Welcome Home' party from you. I really did."

His voice is calm and smooth, so unlike the one they are used to, and the brothers and Claire actually find themselves feeling sad at the absence of its gravel. It's icy. Tasteless. Just a cold and far echo from what they know. It only makes them suffer, and relived, knowing that it isn't him. It always makes the kill easier.

"Sorry if I didn't seem to get your RSVP then. Must have gotten lost in the mail."

Castiel was unique, and to have his form be played like this, was one of total nightmare. He gave a simple head tilt, more sharp and neck breaking than cute and bird like, and Dean actually found himself cringing. This was not the form he expected him to find, but it's just wrong that it is as well. Castiel is one of grace, and the man before him is one of horror. The electricity he puts off is massive, declining, and absolutely piercing. He is only but a monster, an abomination, and it actually hurts him that he has to die like this, with beautiful blue eyes staring right at him.

"I really thought I'd get more of you Dean," he repeats, but lacks the sentiment that he wants. It's simply but a taunt, and it's meant to strip him bare. "If you're not feeling up to it that's okay. We can have fun in other ways. I can take it all out on you if you want. Or I can even take it out on him. All I need, is for you to make the call."

And if the smile on his face didn't already make his stomach churn, the smooth talking, wicked sound of his words made up for much of it. Dean was not impressed, but he was not very much insulted either. He knew what it was he really meant, and only made his anger grow.

"Go to Hell."

"Oh I plan to, trust me. But only as the one and true ruler of that rat infested sinkhole. You can tell your friend Crowley about shoving that title up his own ass, cause there's a new man on campus, and he's not exactly willing to share with two faced lying snakes if you catch my drift."

Dean felt sick as the man before him slightly chuckled, watching his friend, no, a simple manifestation of his friend, staring right back at him with cold dark eyes and an even darker stare, his features dull and tight instead of bright and carefree, even with the relaxed expression. This wasn't Cas, didn't look anything like him other than the face, but Dean knew this wasn't him; felt it in his bones. He may have had his body, but he was nowhere close in spirit.

It brought him back to that moment, the second he witnessed Castiel's punishment at the hands of those four angels, and how they had brought out a ghost of himself to torture him, to make him believe that it was done. But it wasn't. Cas had already known that, felt it, simply because he already knew who Dean really was. He promised him that. This wasn't his Castiel, wasn't his angel or his friend. This wasn't who he cared about or he chose to fight for. There was no reason to hesitate. No reason to question or explain.

But even a ghost can cause you harm, and this one gripped him to his bones.

It wasn't what he wanted, but it was only what he saw.

Dean wanted to get him back, if it took everything he had. And it was only then, at that very same moment, when he saw what it was he knew…how it came to be…what it was he felt, that he truly absolutely realized, as he grasped onto his being. He had been beside him. And had been all along.

It took so much time for anyone to even utter a word, the two greatest beings there simply just staring as if trying to figure the other out. It was a test, a trial, and one that neither one wanted to lose. Both had great risks on the line, and both were willing to go as far as they had to put the battle in their favor. Surely and truly, anything.

The human will was still a mystery, even with his own, but evil was always the same, whether you looked at it or not. Evil never changed. Evil never walked on the line. And evil never won. So long as you had something to fight for, Dean knew what it was he came for. He came to fight, and it was a fight he would win.

More chilling moments passed, before either one said a word.

"You know what's the same about all you monsters?" Dean asked, taking in the blank look on Legion's face. If he didn't know any better, he would have thought he was angry. "You never seem to take the hint. That there's always something bigger out there. Better. More powerful than you are, and that there's some of us out there to kill you. You really think you've got it, and it only makes it better, when I finally get to see your true face. And yours, I plan to strip till it's bare. Because I know it's all about you, and I know what makes you tick."

Only another heavy moment of silence passed between them, before Legion chose, to take it all apart.

He smiled, chuckled almost as he listened to his words, and it only caused an even wider grin to grace his face as he stared back at him. This one was a funny one, which would only make his death that much more fun. That he would make sure of.

"You know Dean, your attitude just astounds me. You convince yourself, of all these things, and yet the truth is laying itself right in front of you. And on a silver platter of all things. Why do you keep lying to yourself all the time? Just so you can convince yourself? That's kind of sick and twisted don't you think." He simply paced a bit, clenching his hands in his pant pockets tighter before staring back at the hunter turned angel.

He may have been a clever one, but even he had his own choices, and even he had his sufferings. Dean may claim to know what breaks, but it was who had it all in his hands, and Dean already knew this.

He was right about one thing. Sometimes Dean did tend to look at the positive things first instead of the negative, when it came to those he loved of course, but in his mind it was only the beginning of a mending and not of something he was willing to lose. Dean loved his family, cared about his loved ones and Cas had become a part of that circle. Dean wasn't going to give up on him, couldn't if he tried, and wasn't going to let some no good, Armani wearing, flaunty hissing, extremely pompous ass tell him otherwise.

Funny how he thought 'assbutt' at the very last second and actually had him chuckle softly for just a moment. Legion of course caught that, and wasn't at all amused. Again, no reason to think positively when you were gonna die today.

"You think you can get him back. Don't you?"

Legion didn't even pose or joke this time, and looked at him straight in the eye. Dean felt down his stare, could sense the evil that rose behind it as it burned and froze down his back, but he refused to back down and simply sneered, his jaw tight and clenching. He would prove this asshole otherwise, or at the least, would die trying.

"Yeah. I do."

A simple pause is all he gives, and his next words are more than enough to split any land in two. Dean feels the iciness of them travel down his spine, plunge into his stomach and freeze him at his skin. It causes him to shudder, and the effect alone is felt amongst much of the flock. All angels are at the ready, and it is time they meet their match.

"Well then, let the games begin shall we? I'm gonna have to show you just how wrong you are Dean, cause someone really, really has to."

It's almost sad like, the look on his face as he stares him back down. He would have thought it justified, that the being he felt was nothing but an empty shell, but this man had been different. This one had been rare. This one was the golden egg, and he didn't need to share.

Legion lifts his hand, the crowd before him expecting his attack, a blast of raw power to be thrown their way and to send them to oblivion. But to their surprise instead they find him just standing there, eyes closed and mouth moving slightly, head bowed down in concentration. Dean doesn't know what to make of it, isn't even sure what to say as both he and Sam look onwards, the brothers listening as he chants and hands grasping swords tighter; words of languages long since dead rolling off his tongue.

The ground starts to shake, break apart and crack as his intentions start to plow. They don't know what is happening, can't begin to unravel it, but get an answer soon enough as Legion simply starts to grin. He lets the words still leave his lips, as he stares right back at Dean.

"You think you've got him so safe. I know the piece he hides in you. Just like the piece you hide in him. It's obvious, cause I can see it. I'm gonna take it from him, and this time…you won't have anything to protect."

Dean knows it's just a bluff, or at the very least believes it, but even he still can't help his knees from shaking at the thought. He knew the reason, knew the purpose behind his taunt, and was more than well aware that the two of them shared a connection that even he couldn't break. Dean knew that Cas was a part of Legion, and that Legion was part of Cas, and there would be no way to stop it, not without some form of loss. He could only hope the loss didn't come from him.

…

Bobby remained staring down at the ground, watching the young man still on it breathing in and out very slowly. He can't believe he's in there, knowing that he hides here, seeing what it's like. Their link is so precious, so incredible and yet so sensitive. He can't even begin to explain what it is he feels when he touched it, but then again it's his soul he had in his hands. Dean knows what he's doing, and he can hope he does. He's never had doubt, but even experienced hunters can have moments where they think they've bitten off more than they can chew. This is one of those times, but then again Bobby isn't the one doing the chewing. He can only just sit here, watching, hoping to God that they make it back. If they don't, then he truly will find himself in a predicament.

"I hope you know what you're doing kid."

Legion draws on his power, feeling the being that he wishes to take and the soul in which it resides. Castiel is his, always has been since the beginning, and now he will get his other half and share with him what he needs. Legion pulls on him, the chasm around them shaking and splitting as he just simply stands there, his smile wide over his features and heart leaping in triumph. Or at least it would be if he had one. He can feel him, see him, and it's on this spirit that he latches onto. It's like the sweetest honey, the most forbidden fruit, and it's one he wants a taste of…

…

Bobby continues watching along with his companion, feeling the sudden shakes and violent tremors that start to rock the ground. Something is happening, coming for what it is they protect and this they know for sure.

Their peace is interrupted, the house shaking and ground quaking as a surge of power so strong meets his doors. He simply stands there, praying that the wards will hold, and can feel the magic spread and break into the defenses that graced his home. The shield they have may be cracking, but still they hold their ground.

Bobby knew this was wrong, had a feeling that this wouldn't be good if they managed to get in, and even Crowley, still remaining outside the door knew the answer. Legion, the monster of all hells was coming for what was due and what he believed to be his.

But they had already counted on that, knew that he would try, and had already prepared for what they hoped would not be a futile act.

The blood seal had been placed around him, the protective wards now set, the bond he shared hopefully strong and the link they kept unbreakable. It was enough to keep him at bay, enough alone to protect him, and enough for them to hold on. Legion may have been a monster, maybe even the worst of them all out there, but not even he could underestimate the power of that he misunderstood the most. They had counted on this moment…

…and they had won.

With simply just a surge of light, it had all screamed and was gone. The seal bounces him right off, and leaves nothing but rejection in its wake.

The quakes cease. The noise stops. The power disappears. Bobby simply stares at Crowley, who can only smile back at the pathetic human as he picks himself up off the ground in just one moment. It's almost amusing, were the atmosphere not already feeling so victorious and electrically light around them.

"I would believe my dear Robert, that's your prayers being answered."

Bobby simply heaves out a heavy sigh, before quietly replying back to him. "Amen to that."

And here they said chivalry was dead.

Legion stopped dead in his tracks, his head lifting and eyes glaring as he wondered what had happened. He had had him, had felt Castiel in his clutches, but for some reason unknown couldn't seem to lay a finger on him. He knew where he was, could sense the presence of magic that surrounded him around the South Dakota home, but still that didn't change the fact that they were linked yet couldn't be pulled apart. Legion believed that he had taken it, had had it in his hands, but had been hit instead with a wall, and with more than just a nasty surprise.

He looked back at Dean, who had a more than just a smirk filled look on his face. If he had the power to do so right now, he would rip it off in a heartbeat.

"Having trouble getting it up? Bitch."

And if he weren't already so shocked, he may have killed him then and there too.

"How is this possible?"

"Easy dick." Dean replied, his own smirk growing bigger as Legion's confidence only faltered. Legion had not expected this, and to him was an advantage, that he was not willing to lose. "Cas is carrying my blood. Has been for a while now, and he's immune to your effects because of the seal we have him in. It's the most powerful magic we could find, the one you can't even hold; the best and perfect one just to keep him alive."

And it became more than abundantly clear to him that the angels behind him actually looked proud at the fact. It was old magic, their magic, and one they used with pride to mistake their enemy. He had been tricked, and they would keep doing so, until the second he fell by their blades. His next words, finally caused his own spine to shiver, both in anger and disappointment.

"Because of that…you can't touch him." Dean simply smiles at him, mouthing 'sorry' at the end.

…

He should have known, knew everything that Castiel knew, and the only explanation possible for this unforeseen event was but a simple answer: Castiel had not been made aware. Did not know that he carried Dean's blood. Had no knowledge of the act, whatsoever.

This actually had his limbs tensing in rage, and caused his lips to purse. He began to wonder if perhaps there were other facts that he may not have had access to, simply Castiel did not have them to give. Things that not Castiel did not know, which would lead him to a great disadvantage. And Legion, did not like being at a disadvantage. Ever.

"You flow through his veins." It didn't take a genius to figure that out, but even he had to admit that he underestimated that little fact. That the fact that Castiel had been so badly injured after his rescue that he required such an assistance, and Dean had been the one to give it to him. His blood flowed through him, which made the bond stronger and the seal practically impenetrable. Through this alone he was safe. "Son of a bitch."

"I guess God does work in mysterious ways huh?"

And Dean actually looked honestly proud to say it, considering he never would have thought the act of saving Cas in that manner would benefit so much more past the original intention. It was simply just a gift in his eyes, or maybe even a miracle. Either way he's take it, and he would take it gratefully.

Legion didn't see it that way, and actually found himself getting even more annoyed by the young hunter. It was clear that this one had a mouth on him, but also a heart that beat like no other. This human was definitely special, and he found himself actually cringing in disgust.

"I guess I'm gonna have to send him a fruit basket for that."

"You go ahead. Send my regards while you're at it."

"I'll be sure to do that, right after I kill you and your little party here and serve your head on a silver platter in the center of my table. You'd make a beautiful centerpiece, Dean Winchester."

Dean felt his hand tightening around the hilt of his sword and it burning, feeling the rage of its master and determination blazing inside his heart. Dean wasn't going to be the one to die today, not this time, not this way. He had someone to protect, billions even, and he wasn't going to allow himself to be fallen just like that. He had a reason to live, someone back home to live for, and a friend for him to count on. Castiel was worth all of this, every last second, and this he told himself repeatedly. Dean wouldn't give up, only because Castiel never had.

"Well this is turning out interesting."

"That it is my friend."

"How long do you think it'll take before he figures it out?"

"Not long. To be quite frank, I'm surprised he hasn't done so already."

"Oh I'm sure he has. He's just waiting for when he can use it."

"Well then, we'll just have to wait until our number comes up. Won't we?"

A simple pause goes between them, before the elder answers back.

"That we shall."

The two figures simply stand there, one with his hands resting in his pockets and the other on his cane, watching as the exchange unfolded.

Legion actually found himself grinning again as he read Dean's thoughts, his mouth falling as a chuckle escaped his lips. He was amused, almost tauntingly so, and he figured now was as good a time as ever to let it out. It was sad really, but somebody had to say it. The two of them had obviously been keeping it from each other, but as it turned out, they really hadn't hidden anything at all. It actually made him sick to his stomach, but, it was just one of those things that he didn't get. He never understood the meaning of love, and really, couldn't even care to. As a monster, there was no place in him to even try.

"It's so sad. The feelings you hold for him. He holds them for you too you know. It's almost enough to make me want to puke. Although…," He paced, lifting his hand to point a finger in the air before placing it on his lips, looking as if he were thinking about what he wanted to say next.

It made them all uneasy, but it still didn't discourage Dean in the slightest. The guy could say all he wanted about the bond he shared with the former angel, fallen angel or not, if only just to reveal to him what he already knew. Legion felt it, saw it all, and wanted to put it out there in perspective as best he could. Maybe he could get some answers out of the things he didn't get quite yet, and forge them into insight. Then again, Dean could use some of that too.

"I can't quite put my finger on it. With you two it's so…complicating. So surreal yet, so different. It's like you two had been made for each other, even before either one of you ever existed. It's strange…. But I guess God just made it that way. Didn't he?"

He silently mocked him, waited for the hunter to throw a taunt or curse his name or even launch attacks, but to his surprise he did not one, and simply smiled back instead. He might as well get this shit off is chest too, while he still had the chance to.

"Yeah you see. That's what you don't get." And Dean actually found himself smiling at the thought. Honestly and truly smiling.

Truth be told he didn't get it really either. At least not yet, he didn't.

"Cas isn't just some angel who pulled me out of Hell and gave me back my life. He's so much more than that, and it's only because of all those times he annoyed me and I picked on him and even the times where we wanted to kick each other's asses and actually managed to, something happened." Dean said softly, before his voice roughed up and grew aggressive towards him, almost protective. "I don't know how. I don't know when. And even I don't really get it. But something did happen. Cas became something to me that has rarely ever occurred in my life and I apparently did the same in return, whether it was intentional or not. Hell him rebelling was a huge sign, and even then I didn't see it. But at least…now I do."

He had confessed it. Said the words and admitted the feelings, even if those feelings weren't exactly clear yet. He felt anger, he felt frustration, he even felt pity but above all he felt joy. Maybe this was what it felt to be happy. Take the good with the bad, even if there was more bad than anything. Cas had betrayed them, had lost his trust and gained it back, as difficult as it was. It didn't matter though. What mattered was that he had gained it. Lost it but gained it, and in true Winchester fashion, forgiveness was always a given, because sometimes the fight ended in a tragedy, and they had lost so much already. Dean wasn't going to allow this lookalike to tear everything he had worked hard towards away. He wanted his friend back, and would kill this bastard if he had to just to get him back.

Dean started walking towards him, carefully watched by his brother and Claire and all the other angels who were ready to fight him. Legion was the threat, the one and only one at their mercy, and if it cost them all their lives to simply shove him back then they would accept it. God had put him down millennia ago for a reason. In His name, they would all do it again. All for Him.

Dean was now just feet away from him, and if he didn't know any better, he would have thought that Legion didn't like him being in his personal bubble, hated his space to be invaded like how he was doing. Another reason to smirk in amusement.

"Now I can't say that I get it either, not by a fucking long shot," Dean continued, parting his hands in front of him as he slowly approached him further. He actually noticed him take a half step back, and stopped himself right there, making his own stand. "But there's no way in Hell that I'm letting you get away with everything you've done to him. Everything you're about to do. Cas is coming back with me, whether you like it or not, and that…I swear to you."

Dean just tightens on his sword, pressing the blade into one of his fingertips to draw blood before dropping it to his side, and with simply just a glare, slowly unfurls his massive wings and graces them from his back. Dean is more than just a hunter, more than just a human, more than just a former victim of the Pit and the Righteous Man in God's eyes. And tonight, he will show that he is more than just destiny's pawn. He will show them what he is made of, and hopefully, he will show it to himself just as much.

If there were any current thoughts to ring through their heads it was simply just of this. They had seen many civilizations fall, had more than had their share and had even taken a part in it, but it was simply just the job and position that they held that had given them the right.

Being a horseman had its responsibilities, siding with an angel only made it easier, and far more interesting, and now it would seem that months of planning was coming to a close. Whatever plans had been put out there were no longer astute, and it was time for desperate measure. There was only so much evil that could be here, and frankly, having him around was just too much. So, to be quite frank, it was more than just a moment to finally let themselves known. Life had showed them what it was to feel, and also of course, when justice was more than needed.

God had made a plan, and now they were going to act it. Legion's however, hmm, how was it that he had put it last time? Oh yes…

It's time to rip the pages, and burn the book. For all of them.

A flash of light and wings graced upon his form and without even a flinch he managed to take them all out and even more than that. He was at an advantage, hadn't even rallied his troops yet or even called his resources, and frankly, he was only just getting started.

He lunges at them, grabs their swords and twists it backwards, forcing it deep within their forms and watching in wicked fascination as the light explodes the air and feathers grace the earth. They are vulnerable, even at their mightiest they can be weak, and having the memories of one of their own gives him all he needs.

He gives out another lash and brings down even more, their vessels now but piles of flesh and wings of ashy smudge. Dean at first keeps dodging, seeing efforts and more than that of those around him as he is spared. Legion tried his best to take him down, to make sure he'd be the first so that the rest would follow, but each time the moment came it was taken down by yet another and an angel gave their life.

He was needed at the most, to keep them going and continue on and it was what they fought for. Dean can see this, can see it in their eyes as they go down, and it only makes him want to fight that much harder. Legion knows this, can feel it in their graces, and decides instead to entertain them with what he can do.

He draws a hand, stopping suddenly and raising it high as he halts them all in midair. They're kept at bay, floating there as if chained in place, and he finds that it brings back splendid memories, as well as some he'd care to forget. You always started somewhere to get to where you're at. His just so happened to be on the Rack, way back in the pilot days. He has only to turn towards the flock of remaining angels, head turning slowly to look at them all and point back into the crowd. There is one in particular that he wants, one he knows for sure he can take, and this he counts on for his acts. He let a smile grace his face, sinister intent clear in his eyes as he took in his one prize. This one too was also special, was more than just unique, and just the one he needed to begin the final ritual.

He would bring with him the end of days, and he would do it gracefully. At the hands of an angel, and in the most insulting form.

"To start the party off, will the real Gabriel" he points first at Sam, posing as if he would start with him and work his way from there, but just as quickly shifts his eyes to look over at the archangel right beside him and puts up a smile. "Please stand up."

Before another thought could be made from them, Gabriel had been lifted from his spot midair and pulled up, chest arching, and swung before Legion in a violent and unpleasant chokehold, his neck grasped onto tightly. What happened next, was too quick for even angels to see.

"I think I'll be starting with you, archangel."

With simply just a squeeze of his hand, Gabriel's true voice is screamed out, the grasp around his throat tightening and pulling the very life out of him. He didn't even fight it, couldn't if he tried, and within mere seconds was reduced to nothing but a faded light, his screams booming out in echo until there was nothing left to give.

The gold of his grace now shone on Legions hand, the fingers curling inwards and absorbing the raw power of his form, making him even stronger. This one had been a treasure to the soul that he now harbored, and he has now just crushed it with only just a tap. It's simply just one move, but one he knows will help him gratefully. And he's only just getting started.

Dean stays there frozen, unable to believe what has just happened and glued to the spot in which he takes. Legion has taken his grace, absorbed it into his vessel, and it appears that it has only made him more invincible. How could something so evil, take in something so good and still be made prevailing by it?

The angels only watch, as the monster before them slowly starts to take away their faith. His laughter echoes through the earth, cackles deep and heavy and booming hard, and brings down all their joys. This one is a hard one, a more than just powerful being, and maybe, just maybe, he is the one they cannot win against. God had put him down last time, the one and true prevailed, and Heaven knew that He would need to do so once more. Only this time, God wasn't by their sides, and it had forced upon them a cruel decision. Keep fighting, or die trying.

Perhaps humans did understand more than they did, far more than even the oldest of angels, and in so many ways. They would have to put their belief, all their beliefs, in simply just one.

"Now then, who wants to have the last laugh with me?"

Legion is a monster, and angels grace or not, he is an abomination. A foul thing that need be slaughtered, and must be taken down!

…

Gabriel had counted on this moment, knew the only way to get to him back was to allow himself to be taken. The other angels would fight without him, knew of his plans once he had admitted them and were assured of his retrieval. He had let it happen, counted on it, and so he fell in thankfully and found himself where he needed to be. He had made himself deliberately vulnerable, was kind of the only plan, and only for this one chance. To make it all right.

It felt so much like an ocean, one filled with inky black and slimy ooze, and the moment he felt it and saw the light of his brothers soul shining so very far away, he turned to it. His brother had been his goal, and now he was almost there to reach it.

'Here we go then…'

…

"Liking the show so far Dean? You know I've got many more tricks that I can show you than just that one."

And if the joy radiating off his child like face didn't make him all that more sinister, Dean might have actually found it cute. In the terms of 'Chucky' cute that is.

"Funny. And I here I thought there couldn't be anyone cockier than Gabriel." Dean snarled, his anger only growing as the smirk on his face only grew. Legion obviously believed himself to be invincible, and he was only just proving it. "Maybe he's rubbing off on you."

"Oh please. That measly little short stack ain't got nothing on me. He was nothing but a snarky, pompous ass with far less tricks than he gave himself credit for. You wanna find a real Trickster, you're looking right at one."

"You would know wouldn't you."

"Probably. Except that I don't have a heart…which I guess technically he doesn't either. At least not anymore."

He chuckled loud for just a moment, amused at his own joke but quickly dropping the grin he had and focused on his real task. Now that they had seen what he could do, knew that he could take them, no angel was willing to near him unless they could guarantee a hit. Legion had to perish, and at any cost possible. Only the faith in their cause was starting to lose, and doubt again started to set in. Not a one said a word however, all their faiths focusing down on him.

They couldn't let themselves be swayed, were taking on Dean's trust, and wanting nothing more but victory for him. Doubt would lead to fear, and fear could lead to suffering, which all led to chaos. They had all suffered enough in the absence of their Father, and it was time for them to make the choices. Their fight was now for them, also for all of mankind, and all in the name of their one savior. The only form they saw of Him, was of the human right before them.

"Let's have a little more fun now shall we."

Legion raises both arms, his face hard and lethal and somewhat comical. He releases on their holds, allowing them to fall so that he can focus on his one true task. He begins to draw them in, what many of them know is his ultimate goal, and the fear it brings and joy it gives him makes everything it causes seem that much more worth it. This power is unlimited, dynamic, and more than enough to prove his worth. It will make everything he's asked for an almost total completion, only because of this reason: It is his every resource.

Dean just looks on, going back to the day where Cas had taken in the souls and bowed his head in triumph as each one proved their power, immersing them in piercing light. This time felt so similar, but also so much more disturbing. This time felt only bad, evil, wretched, but more so than any of that, it felt absolutely sinful. He only takes the moment to look at his eyes, as Legion stares back at him in regard.

This one act, is for all for him.

"It's time I set you free."

Gabriel finally reaches him, finding the soul veiled in the very center of this monster and being threatened by all those who surround it. The leviathan especially have taken a liking to the light, find it almost irresistible as they flick their tongues and lick their jaws, hoping for a piece. None will get any however, and with just a swipe of his hand Gabriel reduces them to sliced up carcasses and moves them from his line of sight.

Castiel is unprotected, with nothing but his own small speck of leftover grace to save him and Gabriel knows that it's not enough. More leviathan are coming, swimming through the darkness to devour their next anticipated meal. But Gabriel has another plan and wraps himself behind Castiel, with arms circling around his chest.

Castiel is unconscious, forced into a deep sleep by Legion, who holds him down, but Gabriel will not allow his brother to be devoured and so raises his wings to circle them around, encasing the two in a four corner sphere of blue, white and light. With this he'll keep him safe, and alone he'll fight them off.

Leviathan hit and are instantly diminished, the power of his grace reducing them to ash as each one tries unsuccessfully to thwart their way inside. Gabriel will not allow it, will bet his life on them being unable to get in, and with this goal alone he holds on. Dean will be able to take care of the rest, so long as he is given enough time to do it. That's the plan. For now, all he can do is wait, with his brother held in his arms.

"Don't worry little bro. I gotcha."

More come to thwart his defenses, and Gabriel only goes to show them, the true and fearsome power of an awesome and wrathful archangel.

He draws it all in, every last speck, as the Earth is engulfed in ashy smoke that rises above the atmosphere and falls deep within himself. He can feel it burn his core, transform him in all ways that's demonically possible, and it's the rush he gets knowing that they are all coming to join him that gives him his biggest high. It's a disease, a falling, the final piece to his whole plan that will bring about his need. He's waited for this, looked forward to it, longed again and again and once more over that his time would come; that there'd be nothing left to take. It's in this notion that he can rest, actually grin, knowing that he has ultimately won. Finally.

The actions finish just as quickly as it did when it had started, the auras that he takes devouring his hub and making him a beast.

It's pleasant, a drug so personal and so acute that it actually makes him quiver. It's like his own special brand, and he has taken it all in one sharp and almost lethal dose. He lets the hate consume him, allows the fear and all the hurt to make him whole and force him complete. It's the final curtain call on his part, and it's all he'll ever need to make his grand entrance.

Some may call him selfish, but he will call it payback…

…

The smoke finally clears as it is taken all by him, the vortex of the force feeding him inside and leaving him a blistering, shining trophy.

He only looks up, allows his arms to fall as his body burns in flames, purple blazes flowing through and shedding into his now blood and rage red eyes. He is but perfection now, nothing less but always more, and it's everything like what he's wanted. He is now completion, a one and perfect Legion, a sinister being so evil and true that it is now empty of all in the world. Every sin and every misdeed has led them all to this, and now it shall be their downfalls.

The power he feels is absolutely glorious. It's simply just a pulsing rhythm and gives in him a ripple that he never thought he'd have. He simply stands there and takes it in, sees the light flashing from his hands and reaching up his body to settle in his chest. It's exhilarating, quite the rush, and more than just a pleasant buzz. It's a bloodlust, and one he thinks can't be satisfied. He may just lose control, but then again he counts on it.

He makes the low stride toward them, wiping at his hands as the last of his transformation finishes and he can feel good about it. It's almost that of shame that he feels like a burden, but like he once said to his own children and those before him, it's only fun when you've got sin. Another perfect explanation. He is the Creator now, the one and only evil, and it is them that stand in his way of absolute oblivion. Through them alone will he get what he wants, and that is total anarchy.

He walks up, smiling at them, and wonders who will throw out first. Each one just seem to stand there, the remaining flock standing their ground, their swords in hand clasping further between their fingers. It is only but a challenge, never a dilemma, and not so much as a threat. He doesn't feel worried, not even of the Righteous One or what he symbolizes, even though he knows his capabilities.

It's his moment now, and he will go up in a blaze of glory.

…

"What did you do?"

Dean can feel it all around him, can see it gracing through the walls and even in the shadows, that this one being now holds it all and for this he must be fearful. But even fear can have his limits, when will alone is on your side. Only now, will alone may not be enough…

…

"You should be happy Dean. I did your world a favor." He smiles, walking towards them even further.

He simply only graces him, as if he truly believes in what he is and actually finds it justified. He is now the perfect union, the one and only true one, and it's in his reign that he will prove them otherwise. Evil always wins. Always has, even if defeat is given. Things are always temporary, never ever permanent, and this he's proved just more than once. God may have his ant farm, but he will have his universe.

"Demons. Monsters. All ill wills against mankind, even from you Dean and of course, little Claire here. It's all in perfect unison. You've done yourselves a great service, and now, I'll show you why."

Again he simply smiles, bending over slightly to meet the small one face to face, to meet the eyes that God created. There they sit, an icy replica of the one he now possesses, the eyes of blue so vibrant it's almost like an ocean while hers are like the sky, a perfect embodiment of who they all are. This child is a special one, but then again aren't they all.

Claire stands beside him, the human that will determine it all, and feeling the aura of anger he puts off. Dean is in a stance, and it's one he can't let go of.

Legion stands back up, feeling the power that he possesses and the impact that it causes, as well as the power that the two of them now grace. It's not an easy feat for him, to control all the influence he holds, but he takes it gladly and in stride, and through this alone he'll win. They now have nothing left to take them back, and it's all he has to say about that. They should have seen this coming, because quite frankly, it's not like he didn't already do that.

"There's no getting your friend back now Dean. He's as good as dead now that I've crushed what little spirit remained here. Please, just let him go."

Legion actually softly begs, is saddened by it, and knows it for a fact. That seeing what it is and how it is, is only what he wants. Dean is in denial, can be as much as he needs to, but he knows that it's the truth. There is no coming back now, and from this he must despair. The angel is now all gone, completely wasted, and with it he can take what's his.

"I know your sorry ass is full of crap."

With these words, eyes now red and full of fury and then they soften blue, Legion takes it back, and finds himself now actually feeling poignant for him. This one would be fallen, and all at his own hand. All because he couldn't learn to accept; for when to give up.

…It was time he knew the truth.

…

"I already told you. Castiel is dead. Once I got what I needed I made sure to leave nothing behind. Whatever was left, is in here, and I'm not willing to part with it just like you aren't willing to part with him." He almost looks sincere, a hand across his chest, and if Dean didn't know any better he'd have thought that he was sorry. Almost. "Just face it Dean, your efforts to come here have been nothing but wasteful. There's nothing left of him for you to salvage. Please try to understand. There is nothing left, okay. Nothing."

…

Dean almost looks defeated, until he graces a smile back himself. The angels left are but a beacon, and with him there they know. He alone will never give in. Dean has proved this time and time again, and he figures, what's one more time for Christ's sake. It's not like he's got anything else to do, other than to save the world.

"Well that's where you'd be wrong. That's what it is that you don't get." Dean almost laughs, as he feels his eyes start welling with small tears. He feels the joy he holds, knowing for a fact that it's untrue, and frankly, it's time he gave the message right back. "You see, this isn't just any grace I'm sportin' around. It's Cas'. And so long as I've got that then I've got something worth fighting for. What do you have?"

And in all sense, Legion finds that he actually has to think about it past his pride, his duty, but comes up with an answer nonetheless to ease his thoughts. He already knew this, could smell the stench of that one angel grace him all over, and it became more than obvious the moment he laid eyes on him. Dean is now his vessel, his charge and his one savior, and he's become them all in one. If all that's needed is a tiny push, he will gladly give him that, if only to show him what it truly is he stands against. Legion has been patient, and it's time he takes it away. Irrevocably.

"I have all I need. But your claim…it's impossible. The soul of a human and the grace of an angel can't intertwine in that matter Dean. It would be a battle of forces. You would ultimately lose and your soul destroyed."

He would know so, from a life so very, very far away. One he barely remembers, if even just at all.

"Yeah. I know about that. Which is why Cas has a little something he didn't have before. And it's the thing that's been keeping him alive. But you already know. Don't you?"

And Legion graces him with still another smile, calling in his bluff and heaving out a small sigh. He should have known that he'd figure it out soon enough, but then again, he only just verified what he already suspected. This one truly was a risk taker, and it would seem that when he put it all out on the line, he gave up everything.

"Your soul."

Dean only gracefully smiles back and nods his head, the flock of angels behind him gripping tighter at their swords. They had planned this from the beginning, new it to be the only solution, and even with the risk they had taken it, seeing no other options and accepting all its consequences. Legion had to be put down, at any cost possible, and Dean, being who he was, was willing to die for the cause. So long as a fallen angel, could get his life back.

Legion however was still quite curious though, even though thoughts and memories provided some answers, they still weren't enough. He had the answers, but not the purpose, or even the incentive, and it was this that he really wanted to know. Why did beings sacrifice themselves, always, to take the place of others? To take away their sufferings. It was something he would never, ever, come to understand.

"How did you even manage that?"

"That would be my doing darling, partially anyway." A simple phrase now takes their site as Crowley intervenes, gracing them with his presence and taking the eyes of all the angels.

Legion first thought 'God', but this might do it for him too.

Instinct tells them all to smite, for angels to take this small bug down, but fortunately for this one demon, very very fortunate, considering all his acts he's protected under them as well. At least for this one battle. He all but takes a step forward, and meets Legion in the eye. All the angels follow, track down his every move, and watch out their exchange.

Legions almost smiles at him, and turns to meet their visitor. This demon is the one, the one that will take all he has, and it's only then that he accepts and knows just what it's for. Crowley is a different one, and this he sees alone, always through the angels eyes. This one has a plan, though it will be for later on until he actually plays it. Not a one suspects, although to be fair, it might as well be written all over his slimy face. Crowley is a demon after all, and the thing about demons is, that you can never trust a one.

"Well. It looks like I'm no longer needed here since the boss man has stepped in." He turns to Dean, and with simply just a grin, decides to break him down. "Let me make it better for you."

The group now stand in slight confusion, watching as this monster drops his hand and see him now grace a sword, the one and only one they've ever known.

It's an angels sword, the same to them as all the rest, only this one takes his hand and it's one he's able to touch. Something else is wrong here, can see it in his face, and it's one drawback they didn't see and one they hadn't counted on. Their plans are now uncertain, and it's one they can't take back. Not anymore.

Dean can feel his heart hammer in his chest, can feel the heat rip through his bones, and it actually makes him ache. This new chain could not be good, and he finds his faith now plummeting. If God could give him any sign, just a one to prove him wrong, then this might just be it.

With one quick swipe he pulls it out, and a simple strike is all he takes, to finally crush them all.

They alone can see its purpose, Dean of course can feel it first, and it causes a fear to well up in his soul. It's his last desperate action, to cause them all to fold.

They should have seen this coming, should have been able to counter it, but didn't even grace the idea.

Legion only smiles, sees his horror and his pain as the weapon pierces through his gut, the silver light so familiar and taunt that it almost all seems worth it. His vessel feels it, knows the effect that it will cause, and this alone he can smile for. The angel inside will now feel torn, and if it says anything, it's that he'll risk it all to win.

Gabriel felt it the moment that it struck, the sword now pierce and rip his form.

The archangel only grunts, takes the wound for what it is and feels the grace that it now purges. He only holds on tighter though, heaving breaths and sore filled ache, protective of his brother and the purpose why he's there. Gabriel hangs on, mindful of the shield even through the pain and the threat of being consumed.

The blood he spills is not his own, only of his borrowed form, and even now through hazy eyes and blood stained teeth he fights. He feels the crimson drip down his chin, can feel it pooling out his stomach, and all he can do is beg and pray that Dean will make it right. Even if he goes without them, he'll go knowing that they tried. They all tried.

Castiel must be saved, even if he dies.

With a simple plea is looks up onwards, seeing every monster and every demon and even every sin descend upon him. All of them want a piece, know that he won't last for long, and all they need to do is wait. Wait for him to fall, wait him to weaken, wait for him to give up. He can feel it in their intentions, and feels the glass around him break. He can give a prayer, only this one is towards the One, the savior, the only man who can make this right. For this he must hold on, and for Him he keeps on fighting.

"Dean. Please hurry…"

…

The effect is only temporary, but still it does its damage. Bobby sees it happening, can see his body flinch as he lets out one sharp breath and blood begins to pool. Now he catches it more than clearly, the wound now growing from his gut and the sweat now beading at his brow, combining with the small whimpers that he gives. He is still connected, even if he's protected, and Bobby takes it on his own and fights to keep them both together.

Legion is a desperate one, and he will choose to take them all down with him. If only just to win.

Dean sees it on his brother first, the impact that it causes more than evident as he falls hard onto his knees and holds onto his stomach. Blood now seeps right through his fingers, teeth gritting harshly and eyes pained and lucid. It's Gabriel that he feels, the angel taking on the pain and accepting it for them. Sam can only heal himself, can try and do so as much as he can as he slowly stands back up. He is now his one connection, his only link to this battle, and even if it comes to this Sam will keep on fighting.

With help from them he now stands fully, his lungs burning and heaving as he fights away the pain. He feels his stomach churning, the bits of tissue pulling back, the muscle over it reconnecting, and he can only be grateful for relief. Gabriel however is another story, using all of his grace to keep Castiel alive and preventing him from dying. He can take the pain, will accept every last bit of it, so long as his brother no longer has to. He's already been through more than enough. He can take this one for him.

Sam feels this, can sense the archangel dying inside, and almost feels saddened that he has chosen his demise. Gabriel is a strong one, always has been, and now is the moment to prove it just as Legion pulls right out.

The sword has done its damage, has followed its intent, and through this act alone he can make a guarantee. They will all now fall, every single one, and it's now but sure and certain.

Bobby just looks downwards, seeing the blood just lift away as he wipes at the last bit of skin. There's nothing left there of the wound, simply just a marking, and it's one he's sure may need some explanation. Castiel remains breathing, one hand settled on his chest while the other lays beside him, the look of quiet peace on his face never once leaving.

Bobby counts his blesses, wonders at that moment who it is he's sending them to and can only really guess. This one is a strong one, clearly that's the case, and as he watches in and out as Castiel takes a breath, it's all he can really ask for. His boys are all still fighting, and it's one he hopes they win.

Legion now takes on their bluffs, lowering his sword beside him as the blood drips from the tip to the floor. It's his blood that he spills, the blood of that one person whom he desperately demises, and it's only now that he sees its effects. Patience is a virtue, he really should have seen that, and now he only knows of what it is he's done.

Dean is unaffected, shows no signs of stopping or even of his actions, so his last ditch effort to bring him down has only been in vain. So long as he gets a hit though, well, that's all he can really ask for now can't he.

He drops the sword by his side, a look of anger on his face, and it's now all geared towards Dean.

He can feel his legs now shaking, can see the pained breaths that he takes and the feeling in his chest as he finally connects with what he always knew was there. Castiel is in pain, not just from the physical but the mental as well, and all Dean can do is stand here and ask what he can do. He wants to help him, assure him that it will all be okay, but even he does not know the answer and thus can only wing it. This has been his specialty, his one and only art form, and this alone will get him through. Legion may think otherwise, but Dean has had enough. It's time he keeps on learning, and it is he who will provide the lesson.

Dean puts down his own sword, taking in its uselessness and what it is it will ultimately do if he uses it. It's not the only answer, not the one he wants, and so he takes in his second plan and pulls it out right then and there.

Legion looks down at the metal, sees it shining in his hand and takes in its simplicity. He merely only laughs, knowing that it won't work on him but humors the hunter anyway. He simply only stands there, hands now open in invitation as everybody watches, and mouths to him the words. 'Go right on ahead'. This act will just do nothing, but cause Dean all the harm.

It's symbolic, a true test of what he's made of, and he will gladly take it. He's a fool, a desperate man, and if this alone will prove him wrong then he will gladly give it to him. He can feel the archangel inside, the grip around Castiel weakening as his true form seeks respite, and he can only smile at this perfect moment.

Dean can do what he wants, but it will mean nothing in the end. All is lost, and the war has been won. Legion is the victor, and always thought he had been. With only just his smarts and a master at his side, he can do nothing more than make this ever more interesting. It's his talent of course, and one he gladly takes pride in.

"What's that famous saying Scarface says just as he's about to pull the trigger?"

Dean can only humor him, as he takes the Colt tight in his hand and points it straight at him. It may not do a thing, but the least he can do is try. Desperate times mean desperate measures, and this is as good a time as ever.

"Say hello to my little friend."

"That's right." And again, he only smiles at that. "Say goodbye to him Dean."

He only hesitates another second before he can decide, taking in the form before him and accepting it as fraud. This will be his final chance, and whether it is they prevail or not, he'll leave it all in His hands. Dean may lack his faith, but he will give it to Him now.

He would have never thought it'd come to this, could never once imagine it. His life had been a puzzle, a sea of mystery and a sky full of possibilities, but even then it didn't seem right. It didn't seem to fit, not with the pieces he had, and it was only after did he realize that he had actually been missing it one. He would have thought it was his mother, could have maybe even been John, but Dean knows better and can't deny the truth any longer. It's been sitting there the whole time, probably longer than he realized, and it only took a lift, a friendship, a betrayal and then a love to put it all together. He had been the final piece, and with it can get his peace.

…

Dean pulls down once and feels it buck, the bullet meeting at his his eyes and slamming straight into his skull.

Legion only takes it, feels the force of this one object push into his flesh, but the effect he knows means nothing and merely laughs himself. He stays only but a moment, feeling the burn that comes from the wound but not of its ultimate purpose. It will doing nothing on him, his efforts only wasted, and as he lowers back down his head and gives another chuckle, he stares right back up at Dean with more than just a piercing look. His eyes are harsh, a fearsome rage held deep inside, but also prove his triumph and what he thinks is real.

Dean did nothing but waste a bullet, and he can only smile at his foolishness. His faith is torn, and now, so will be the world. That is until, he sees a smile grace his face.

…

All the angels watch now, Legion taking in their gazes as they simply hold their ground.

They should be running, fighting, anything by now to gain justice for their fallen or even to smite him down. But no, they only just stare at him, and it's then that he can feel it; blood now slowly dripping down his face.

It streaks just down his eye, to fall right past his chin and burn right through the ground. The hole now deep in his forehead starts to glow, tiny rivulets filled with fire creasing at his skin and crawling over like a web. The bullet has done damage, one he had not thought to foresee, and it's only then when he feels its power does he finally understand.

This weapon may not kill him, but it does kill everything else, and that includes the monsters he's consumed. Every. Last. One…

Faith can be a blessing, but it can also be a punishment. Dean can't decide which one it is right now, but he feels pretty damn good about it.

"Demons. Monsters. All ill wills against mankind. Guess you bit off more than you could chew."

Dean feels his throat tighten as his grip on the gun only loosens, but only just slightly, as if to take a stand. Bobby had been doubtful, but apparently, it would seem that another Father had a different idea. This he can be proud of, definitely find pride in, and Dean can only whisper a silent thank you.

It all comes crashing down now.

He rages at his foolishness, angers at his stupidity, and lashes out at his mockery. Legion will not go down like this, refuses to after all these centuries, and if he does he will not go down alone. Before anyone can even make a move Legion makes his own, screaming out his lungs and causing the ground to quake. His eyes are now dark red, his anger radiating from his body, and his hands now clutched in fists beside him as he draws in all his power.

It's unpredictable. Undeniable. But also uncontrollable and this he does not care. He has fought too hard, refuses to back down, and so Dean will go down for him. He will only enact revenge, and it's in him that he will take it out on.

He appears right before him, clutching at his throat and growling out his name through gritted teeth, curses filling through the air as he lunges for his chest. Dean will die today, he has to, and only then will he win.

Legion grasps right on, his vessel glowing streams of red and veins of black as he starts to fall apart. Dean can see it all in him, all the evil that he holds, and knows that he can't keep it in. Fear consumes him as nails dig in, his hands now clutching at his arms as Legion takes his triumph.

Dean knows darkness when he sees it, feels it consuming at his edges, but finds the pain now fading as he opens his eyes and halts his screams. Several angels hold him down, Sam gathered right behind him with arms wrapped tight around his middle and Claire just right after him.

All the angels pull Legion back, Sam and others take Dean forward, but what surprises him most is the presence of one angel in particular that he knows was not there before, his sullen hand now dug deep in Legion's back and causing him to shout. It's Balthazar, the one angel they feared had lost at the hands of his own brother in such a sharp betrayal, but now stands here and fights alongside them. He braces a hand on Legion's back shoulder, the aura surrounding the other as it pierces through his spine only dark and desolate around the weapon that he carries.

No doubt it's one of Heaven's, and a sign that Dean will gladly come to accept. Cutting it a little close there God.

Legion loses his grip, can feel his clutches faltering, but still remains to stare at Dean with all the hate he can muster. This one has to die, and he will take him to his grave no matter what the cost. If he wants to win so badly, then he will have to steal it.

"Are you just gonna bloody stand there?" Balthazar shouts, looking straight at the hunter and his brother as if in pure annoyance. He doesn't need to say it, but simply does so anyways, for all times sake. "I hope I don't need to be the one to do everything myself here! Do you want Castiel back or not?"

Dean can only nod, still surprised of all their efforts and even of his presence as all this strength surrounds him. He can only swallow down, and take in his honest gesture. With a menacing tone and a growl at his heels, Balthazar spits him the incentive.

"Well then you buffoon. Get. Him. Out."

Dean doesn't even hesitate, his arm pulling back just as Legion pulls him forward, plunging straight into his chest as he digs for what he wants, what he's here to fight for. He knows that it's there, won't believe that it's been gone, and if life has taught him anything it's that it can give you crap. But if you fight hard enough and think good enough and even feel more enough, sometimes life will give you what you want. All he wants is this one thing, and he will more than beg for it.

Legions screams grow only higher as his body continues to be consumed, the bright light emanating from his chest glowing even brighter as Dean digs in deeper. He knows what it is he looks for, focuses all his might on feeling it out, and prays to God that he can get it. They are connected, on this alone he focuses, and closes his eyes as he seeks him out. Castiel. He can feel him deep within, and the thought alone just brings him hope.

Dean finally feels it, can sense the soul trapped deep inside and focuses now solely on retrieving it. He can sense the power that surrounds it, can sense it weakening as he fights, and this he knows will make it harder to decide on.

He grasps on, feels the soul now burn his hand, and with one sharp pull he starts to tug.

Legion however refuses to let go, refuses to let Dean have him, and with all the strength he has yet to muster begins to pull Dean in. If he wants him so badly then he can join him, and through this alone will they be forever united. Legion will not let him win, not if he can make it.

His screams grow even louder as the damage now intensifies, Dean's grip now starting to falter as Legions grasps on tighter and he's being sucked right in. Sam stands right behind him, clasps hard around his brother, and feels the army and entire flock fight to break them apart.

Balthazar continues grasping, starts mouthing off ancient words as Crowley starts to draw from them, blood streaking down his fingers, and Dean knows their meaning right off the bat. It's the seal, the spell to open a door, only this door is slammed right shut and cannot be called upon on this night. Little did he know that they'd be watching.

"You've better have a good plan for this."

That sinister voice is all it takes to carry him through the wind, Dean looking towards his side to see the Horseman standing there. He simply gives him a knowing look, and through this alone Dean understands. He knows he's there with purpose, and it's to finally end this.

"Death."

"Finish it Dean. It's time you fix this, once and for all."

Balthazar finishes off his words, Crowley the seal, and Death gives them their full moon and all can see the portal open. Death has granted them the opportunity, the only chance to right this wrong, and the brethren take it gladly.

Dean can see it behind him, can feel the pull of the realm time hides, and only pushes himself in deeper to grab on to what he wants. Dean feels his ears bleeding, can take the fire in his lungs as he screams and finally grasps onto what he came for. He feels the soul around his clutches, can sense the angel inside letting go, and knows the pain that he now takes, knowing that he may never see them all again.

Gabriel only smiles, his skin now pale and blood still spilling, his eyes half lidded and out of focus. He takes his hands away, removes his wings from all around and pushes on still forward just as he feels his brother pulling out.

Legion can't keep him down anymore, can feel his consciousness growing, and it actually causes a shiver to run down his spine as he sees his small eyes open. Castiel's awake, more than just aware but not of what he knows. Gabriel can't keep going, and it's time he's said goodbye.

Castiel slowly turns, sees the look right on his face and can't help but drop his own. It's one he never thought he'd see, one he never thought he'd hate, and in all honesty, it has him growing scared. The blood alone does not concern him, it's what's in his eyes, and Gabriel only smiles even if he does not have the strength to do much more than that. It's simply just the brother in him, to keep all others from breaking.

"Gabriel?"

He'd made a deal, had made a choice, and it's all led down to this. His number was up.

He can take his final offering, can accept it without a doubt, and Gabriel gives a final goodbye before finally letting go. He cannot keep him here, cannot protect him here, and only focuses on the one person that he knows can do it for him. He's done all that he can, and so it's up to him now.

"So long bro." What he doesn't get the chance to whisper but hears fading in his mind: I'll miss you, so take care of yourself.

Gabriel simply smiles, unshed tears now streaming down his lids and joy now radiating from his core as Castiel shouts out to him. It's all he ever wanted, the only prayer he could ever ask for as he lets his grip go, and now God has granted his reprieve. By simply just accepting his fate, as Dean finally takes him out.

Castiel can now be saved, and he can have his second chance.

"Thank God."

It's all he'll ever ask for, the only thing he'll want, and with this alone Gabriel can finally have his peace. He lets go, allows the shield to fall apart and allows himself to be devoured. It's all just an ocean, just a thing of inky black, and it's the final thing that he will ever see. He'll take it with a smile.

…

Dean can feel the disconnection, can take in his heart that the archangel has fallen, and fights his hardest to take Cas back even in his hesitation to leave him.

Legion still takes his chances though, the skin he wears beginning to peel and crack apart as his arms just squeeze on tighter to the one still plunged in him. The light beneath is just too much, far too great for him to take, and his face just starts shooting forward as his screams fill the skies and his eyes and mouth are glowing bright.

Dean cannot hold on, his strength alone is not enough, and this they all now see. Dean can keep on fighting, but even he will have a limit. It would seem that this one moment was meant to end in a standstill.

Claire can see it in his face, can feel the desperation in his heart and the tearing of muscles in his arm as he still holds on to take set him free. Dean isn't strong enough, not at least to pull him through, and it's time she take her turn.

Two angels stand behind her, her lovely Josephine and powerful Elizael, and both now push her onwards, with simply just a nod.

Her wings now bloom out onwards, the light now bright and white, and wrapping all around them. Dean can see her actions, can only wonder what she's doing, and looks back just to see her smile. Her hands now grace his shoulders, her arms embraced protectively over both the brothers and with a final look she says goodbye. She simply lifts her head, sends a silent prayer to up above, and with a final act lets herself go and releases the grace that holds them together.

It blinds them all, floods their wings with all but power and ever burning light, and Dean can feel it in his veins as it courses through his body.

It settles in his chest, wrapping tightly around the one and ancient grace he already owns, and feels the raw intensity consume him as a whole. She has given up her light, has sacrificed herself, all for this one moment, so that he could prevail. Dean finds himself screaming, the power of it all choking at his core, and with one final tug engulfs the land in light.

He has his chance, can take no more than this, and he does so with all the effort he can muster, all the strength that he can take and puts it in his final move. He simply clutches at his treasure, and takes away his pain. His friend can now be saved, and it's all in this one moment. They can have their peace, and he can have his light.

Dean can finally…take him home.

To Be Continued…

Authors End Note: Finally managed to finish this while listening to Kelly Clarkson's song What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger) strangely enough. Who knew lol. Personal note now. If they bring back Misha Collins only to turned him into the Leviathan boss or some other evil badass, I'm gonna be pissed. Just sayin'. Hopefully I made due of that scenario though. But from what I've been hearing it's just him being brought back without a memory and apparently Sera Gamble has written the episode. We'll see how this plays out. :P Review please? You've all been awesome and wonderful and so down to earth with me so please just keep it up. You have no idea how much encouragement it gives me. :)