Harvelle Supernatural

Disclaimer: I do not own Supernatural


Chapter 19: Abandon All Hope

Skylar's POV

"I can't believe you fracture your knuckles after punching the guy," Ellen said, shaking her head as a doctor injected a needle into my iodine hand to numb the pain.

It was December, and my family decided to stay in Nebraska this month for the holidays. After what happened with Amber's death, life has been a difficult time. Cheryl and I mourned pretty hard, going to bars and binge drinking. Sometimes party hard at frat parties. That is until a few days later, as we girls were going to the local college bar, Ellen and Jo stood by the door.

A mild intervention. The college counselor called on my behavior being anti-social all of a sudden and slight change in grades. My photography and any graphic arts grade are excellent. The minor in economics dropped from a B+ to a C after missing a test. So, Ellen dragged me with the help of Jo to the nearest motel to talk. At first, I was stubborn, but when Ellen started scolding me for this behavior, I burst out crying.

There is so much stress going on. With Lucifer free, the Winchesters hunts, Ellen and Jo's research, and college life…I can't take it anymore. My clairvoyant powers are becoming more assertive. Even though they help me through exams…the sudden knowledge is overwhelming. Ellen sighed, trying to understand my situation. The next few days were spent time with family. Mom felt guilty that she and Jo hardly see me monthly, so this was their way of making things up. For once, I finished classes and completed homework. We go out to see a movie, go to a spa, or anything mother and daughters do.

Then Jo decided to have a sister's night, as we went to a bar having drinks. At first, it started out good, a couple of daiquiris, some appetizers, as we talk about how college and hunting are going. We merely talked, laughed, and flustered over the past. That is when a bar fight happened. Jo and I were trying to leave when a man grabbed my shoulder. On basic instincts, I turned around, punching the assailant in the face. However, the person I hit was the damn angel Castiel. Regrettably the punch did not faze him, except it hurt like hell.

Castiel leads Jo and me out while I grabbed my hand in agony to see my pinky knuckle swollen. Jo called Ellen, and we went to the emergency room where my hand is being treated as we speak. Meanwhile, Jo was talking to that damn angel Castiel. I don't like him. Although my ability says he's good, his intentions to save humanity . . . It is a bit of a controversial. Castiel attempted to kill Jesse Turner because he was a cambion.

And now, after punching the angle, I got myself swollen knuckles. Nothing serious, though I had to wear a splint from the pinky and ring finger down to my elbow. Fortunately, it was my left hand and not my right; otherwise, there would be hell to pay.

Back to now, the doctor put my hand in a splint, wrapping it in pink tape. After leaving the emergency room, Castiel explains that the Winchesters and Bobby needed us for a case.

"What type of case?" Ellen asked.

"To kill the devil," Castiel answered. "We're going to need all the help we can get."

Ellen hesitated, looking at Jo and me. This was a dangerous case. One, we might not survive. But knowing it had to be done, we all accepted to join the battle. Thus, packing up our gear, headed off to South Dakota to meet up with the Winchesters and Bobby.

.o0o.

Jo was touching her makeup in the Impala while I held a mirror and flashlight for her. She wore a little black dress, a pair of pumps, and had her hair in a French twist. She looked like somebody going to a party. Luckily it was December, so she looked like she was attending a party. Though I find it strange that winter decided not to come for a visit. It was slightly cold.

Tonight, the Winchesters, Jo, and I plan to steal the Colt from a demon named Crowley. Bela sold the Colt to a crossroads demon instead of handing it over to Lilith. So, this is our last chance to get the Colt and hopefully kill Lucifer.

Unfortunately, I won't be going inside or being part of the distraction committee. My left hand is still swollen, so I'm on guard duty. Once Jo distracts the guards, Sam and Dean will kill them. Next, the boys will go inside to trap Crowley while Jo and I disable the alarm system.

"You girls ready?" Dean asked.

"Yeah," Jo said, coming out of the Impala, showing off a bit of leg.

Dean's eyes widen in seeing Jo in full attire.

"Dean," Sam said.

Dean snapped out of it. Rubbing his neck, before we all split up into three groups. The Winchesters went over to the fence and climbed over. Meanwhile, I hid in the bushes as Jo headed up to the gate. She rubbed her arms from the cold before pressing the intercom by the entrance.

"Yeah?" the security guard asked through the gate's intercom.

"Hello? My car broke down. I-I need some help." Jo replied nervously.

"We'll be down in a minute." The security guard said.

A minute later, two men in suits came out of the mansion and approached the cast-iron gates. The blond one was closer, opening the gate to let Jo in.

"Evening, pretty lady." The blond man said, waving Jo in. "Get yourself on in here."

"I just need to make a call." Jo nervously said.

The blond man shook his head, smiling, "You don't need to call anyone, baby. We're the only help you're gonna need."

"You know what? I . . . I think I should wait by my car." Jo said, turning around to leave.

Suddenly the blond man grabbed Jo by the arm, his eyes going black. "We said get your ass in here."

Jo smirked, spinning around, and slammed the entire weight in her first into his shoulder. The demon screamed as she grabbed hold of his arm and twists it, dislocating it from the joint. The second demon possessing dark hair came over, except Sam came up from behind and stabbed Ruby's knife into his neck, killing him. Sam tossed the knife to Jo, which she stabbed it in the blond demon's chest.

Dean and I came out of our hiding places, joining the group.

"Nice work, Jo." Dean complimented.

I handed Jo a pair of sneakers that she put on and held the duffle bag filled with tools. "Thanks."

"Shall we?" I asked.

"Right, you girls go for the power box," Sam said. "We get Crowley."

"Got it," I said.

Jo and I ran to the back of the mansion, going to the pool house. We found the electrical power box where Jo opens the lid, and I took the plyers cutting the cords. Immediately the lights went out of the house. Not wanting to deal with more demons, Jo and I ran back to the Impala and waited for the Winchesters. Our part here is done. Ellen gave strict orders that Jo and I don't get seriously involved in retrieving the Colt.

About twenty minutes later, the Winchesters came back with the Colt and box of ammunition.

"You got it," Jo said.

"Yeah, we got it alright," Sam confirmed annoyed.

"What's wrong?" I asked.

"Well, Crowley just handed it to us," Sam answered.

"Yeah, seems a demon wants Lucifer dead more than we do," Dean added.

Jo and I looked at each other in disbelief. I never thought a demon would hand over one of the most influential weapons to kill the Devil. Usually, they would kill anyone who tried to steal it or tossed it in the middle of the ocean. Sam explained Crowley's conversation that once Lucifer is free and eradicate all humanity, who is next? The demons would be next. Even though Lucifer created demons, he is not a demon. Demons are nothing but servants.

And Crowley wants to keep things the way they are.

.o0o.

Back in South Dakota in Bobby's place, we all gathered around enjoying the last night before going on our mission. Sam and Dean were doing last minute research in the main room. Bobby was getting his books prepared for tomorrow, and as the rest of us. Well, Castiel said he has a high tolerance for alcohol. That no matter how much he drank, alcohol's influence won't affect him severely compared to a human. Ellen wanted to put that theory to the test.

So, we set up a little game of who can drink the most whiskey. Ten shot glasses were filled and five for each contender. Jo and I sat at the end, watching the game. Ellen took the first shot gulping down the drink, then flipped the glass over. Afterward, she did the same on the second one.

"All right, big boy. Let's go." Ellen said.

Castiel picked up a glass of whiskey, sniffing it. Finding the smell of whiskey tolerable, he guzzled the alcohol down and set it on the table. No hesitation, he picks up the next one, drinking it fast follow the other three. Jo, Ellen, and I stared at the angel, surprised by how quick he drank five shots of whiskey. Castiel sat there, his face starting to become flustered, eyes slightly widened, and a small smile lifting his lips.

"I think I'm starting to feel something," Castiel said.

I chuckled, watching the disbelief on Jo's face. Ellen shook her head, taking another shot of whiskey.

"Skylar, come here!" Bobby called.

Taking the last sip of beer, I got up and walked over to where Bobby was. Bobby sat in his wheelchair in the living room, having a hard time setting up a tripod. "Sky, mind setting this up for me?"

"Sure," I said.

I got down, setting the tripod up. Bobby then handed me the camera he is going to use. It was a Pentax Spotmatic, Asahi edition. From the photography class, this type of camera would be a 35mm single-lens reflex camera. I've seen the modern version of this camera though not the one from the seventies. This one seemed more early eighties. Bobby surely knows how to take care of his equipment or knows how to search on eBay. Next, I attached the Tilt-A-Mite Flash Unit for better lighting. Going around the camera, I looked through the lenses seeing if the view is at the right height and focus.

"Everybody, get in here! It's time for the lineup." Bobby called out. "Usual suspects, in the corner."

Ellen and Sam were the first to come in. Mom groaned, "Oh, come on, Bobby. Nobody wants their picture taken. "

"Hear, hear." Sam agreed.

Bobby sighed, "Shut up. You're drinkin' my beer. "

Ellen laughed, shaking her head. Bobby rolled himself to the others as the lineup is formed. Castiel, Sam, Ellen, Dean, and Jo were in the back. Bobby got himself front and center between Jo, Dean, and Ellen. I doubled check the view through the lenses to make sure it was perfect before starting the timer. I ran over, standing next to Jo as we leaned close to each other.

"Anyway . . . I'm gonna need something to remember your sorry asses by," Bobby added.

"Ha! Always good to have an optimist around." Ellen said.

"Glad to know you cared," I laughed.

"Bobby's right," Castiel said in his monotone voice. "Tomorrow we hunt the Devil. This is our last night on earth."

The fun atmosphere the house held a moment ago vanished after Castiel said that. There is a possibility any of us is going to make it. Let alone for the worse things that are to come. Whatever Lucifer is doing in Catherage is nothing good. Either he's opening another demon's gate or something far worse.

Back at the moment, we gain our composure waiting for the camera to take our picture. After the flash, I went over resetting the next film before taking another one. Once that is out of the way, I went outside to get some fresh air. The early winter air felt refreshing to breathe as I leaned against the house, staring out at the sky. My ability stirred, telling me this was dangerous. Telling me that somebody is going to die. I don't know who, but we're not all coming back.

The door opens as Sam came out. He handed me a blanket, which I appreciated wrapping it around myself, and went back to stargazing. Sam stood next to me, looking up as well.

"Did you seriously punch Castiel in the face?" Sam asked.

I waved my left pink bandaged hand. "Does this answer your question?"

"Why?" he chuckled.

"Well, if a bar fight happens and somebody grabs you…what do ya do?" I asked.

"Punch them," he answered.

"There, now we got that out of the way," I grumbled. "How are ya, doin'?"

Sam sighed, crossing his arms, "Just want to get this over with and done. Once Lucifer's dead, we can rest peacefully."

"And go back your merry way of hunting demons and monsters?" I teased.

Sam chuckled, shaking his head, then sighed. "Did you see Jo rejecting Dean's offer of last day on earth speech?"

"No," I gasped, astonishment.

"Yeah," Sam nodded. "I think that is the first rejection in the past five years."

Jo, for years, had a crush on Dean since the moment he walked into the Roadhouse. Maybe she has come to her senses that Dean doesn't see her in a romantic interest. Let alone there is no romance in the hunting community these days. Not for our generation. And now Dean hits on her. Either he realized Jo is not a naïve girl or saw her as a woman and blew it.

"Wow," I said, then added. "If either of them survives, they might end up in a bedroom."

"And then Ellen barges in killing Dean," Sam added.

I burst out laughing at the most awkward situation in the world. Jo and Dean were going all at it; then Ellen comes in with a shotgun. Bet Dean would have a friendly doctor's appointment with bird-shots as the nurse pluck each pellet out of his back. It would be hilarious if the nurse looked like a bulky Helga, in other words, Robin Coleman. Try explaining that?

I took a deep breath, resting my head on Sam's shoulder, feeling lazy. Sam stiffened from this reaction. Realizing what I was doing, I pulled back, embarrassed.

"Sorry," I apologized.

"It's okay," he assured.

We stood there awkwardly. Something was going on between us, though it could be a mere infatuation phase or crush. Back in May 2008, things got heated emotionally and physically after Dean was dragged to hell. The make-out session in the elevator almost lead to sex. How our bodies molded between each other while our clothes separated skin contact. I wondered if Ruby and the two demons haven't interrupted, what would have happened. Would it have been a one-night stand, a regretted moment, or something more?

"We better get some rest," I suggested.

"Yeah," Sam agreed.

I don't know what will happen after that. Just turned to leave, and Sam's lips were on my forehead. At first, I consider this a mere platonic gestured, like back in 2007 at Devil's Gate. However, as our eyes made contact, a small click enters our minds as he gently pushed me against the wall. His hand caressed my jaw while leaning in close. Consumed at the moment, our lips met- until somebody opened the door, ruining the moment.

Sam pulled back as we turned our heads to see a confused Castiel. "Am I interrupting something?"

"Yes," I answered.

"No," Sam said at the same time.

Castiel, still confused, stood there. I groan, exaggerating by raising my arms in there, "Agh, I'm gonna hit the hay."

As I left, I heard Castiel said to Sam, "Whatever did the hay do to be abused?"

.o0o.

It's quite awkward to be interrupted by an angel last night. Now sitting next to one is much weirder when he witnessed you kissing your friend. And I do happen to be sitting next to Castiel for the next seven hours from South Dakota to Missouri. Even when reading a damn book, Castiel would lean in an attempt to read the fictional novel of a dis-utopia called Panem. I read The Hunger Games while having a back-seat driver next to me asking questions about why certain characters look flamboyant, why children are killing each other, and creating commentary. I don't even have a clue because I just started reading the book.

I begged/bribed Jo to switch seats, but the girl just chuckled, saying, "Older sister gets the shotgun."

I pouted, going back to my book, trying to ignore Castiel. By early afternoon did we reach our destination of Carthage, Missouri. Rain drizzled fairly over the empty town. There was no one out or passing through Main Street; the stores appeared empty.

The Impala stopped which Ellen pulled up next to the Winchesters. Jo rolled down the window so Dean could communicate.

"Place seems a little empty to you?" Ellen asked.

"We're gonna check out the PD. You guys stay here – see if you find anybody." Dean suggested.

"Okay," Ellen agreed.

As the Winchesters drove off to the police station, Ellen did a lap around Carthage Main Streets before returning. There appears no sign of life other than a feral cat and birds. Ellen pulled over, once parked, us Harvelle's got out of the vehicles, yet Castiel remained in the car. Jo came over, knocking on the window.

"Ever heard of a door handle?" she asked. Once she turned around to face us, Jo jumped from Castiel standing right in front of her, coming from nowhere.

"Of course I have." The angel answered, looking straight into the street. His eyes aimlessly wander around as if there was something there.

"What is it, Cass?" I asked.

"This town's not empty." He answered.

"Yeah, I hear something." Jo agreed.

Jo is clairaudience, having the ability to hear the paranormal thanks to the gift Athena gave. It made hunting comfortable when dealing with a ghost and hearing conversations at a far distance. Now Castiel seeing things and Jo hearing them meant something is not right. Even I sense we are not alone, yet I can't tell what it is.

"Reapers," Castiel said.

"'Reapers'? As in more than one?" Ellen asked, surprised.

"The only gather like this at times of great catastrophe – Chicago fire, San Francisco Quake…Pompeii," Castiel said. "Excuse me. I need to find out why they're here."

"Wait, Cass-" I started, sadly he took off.

Jo, Ellen, and I watched the angel maneuver around invisible objects, scratch that, reapers. He walked about a block till he stopped looking at a building before vanishing into thin air. Ellen suggested we gather our gear as she opens the trunk of her Jeep Grand Wagoneer. Having our gears set, each of us having ammunition, we walked around meeting up with the Winchesters.

"Station's empty," Dean announced.

"So is everything else," Jo added.

"Have you seen Cass?" Ellen asked.

"What? He was with you." Sam said.

"Nope. He went after the reapers." Ellen said.

"Reapers?" Dean asked in disbelief.

"He saw reapers? Where?" Sam asked.

"Like, everywhere…" I answered.

Dean and Sam debated if we should go on or not. Castiel was supposed to be the lead man in this group since he is the only one who can sense another angel. Dean asked if I, by any chance, direct them to the source. I told Dean my ability doesn't work that way, but we could try. So, we went to the Impala to get some guns before starting our search. Dean and I went first, leading the way, as my claircognizance attempted to find the answers in where Lucifer may be.

"Well, this is great. We've been in town for 20 minutes. We've already lost the angel up our sleeve." Dean whined.

"You think, uh … Lucifer got him?" Sam asked.

"I don't know what else to think," Dean answered.

"Well, if he were dead, I would be the first to know," I added.

"Yeah, keep us to date, Miss News reporter." Dean sarcastically said.

"There you are." A female said.

We all turned around to see a woman standing center of the crossroads. She stood there in her late twenties, with dark curly hair, dark eyes, and pale skin. As she wore a leather jacket and pants with a purple shirt. She seems jolly to see us. Then again, what demon would be when the Winchesters are around?

"Meg!" Sam called out.

Meg, as in Meg Masters? I thought.

The female demon who has been taunting them early on. The one who had Jo tied to a bar post while possessing Sam in 2007. Damn, I thought this bitch was long gone by now.

"You shouldn't have come here, boys," Meg said.

"Yeah? Well, I could say the same thing for you." Dean said, aiming the Colt at her.

"Didn't come here alone, Dean-o." Meg teased.

"Shit," Jo cursed, hearing something.

There was a sound of loud footsteps with heavy breathing. We weren't sure what it was until it stepped on a puddle of water and growled while barking could be heard around us. Oh, you got to be fucking kidding me-

"Hellhounds!" Dean said.

"Yeah, Dean – your favorite," Meg taunted with a wicked smile. "Come on, boys. My father wants to see you."

"I think we'll pass. Thanks." Sam said.

"Your call." Meg sighed. "You can make this easy, or you can make it really, really hard."

Dean turned his head around, facing Ellen. Mom stared at Dean and nodded. Guess we're going to do this the hard way.

"When have you known us ever to make anything easy?" Dean said, shooting at the hellhound by Meg. A visible splash of blood could be seen as the invisible creature yelped.

"Run!" Sam yelled.

Running for our lives, we ran, trying to find safety and get the hell away from these damn mutts. We ran for a couple of blocks when Dean fell/got pounced by a hellhound. Jo turned around, seeing him pushing an invisible force off him.

"Dean!" Jo exclaimed, coming to his rescue as she fired the mutt off him.

"Jo, stay back!" Dean ordered, shoving the dead hellhound off him.

Jo heard another as she shot the second bullet at another hellhound. She fired two more, possibly killing it. As she turned around to get to Dean, another hellhound pounced on her. Everything seemed to go into slow motion as the invisible creature ripped into her torso. Ellen and I screamed, firing the beast off her. Considering the mutt dead, Dean came over, picking her up, and ran towards the firing brigade.

Looking around for the closes building, I ran over to a hardware store finding the door unlocked. I called everyone over and hurried. Ellen and Sam kept firing while Dean brought Jo in. Once everyone was inside, the Winchesters locked the door getting iron chains, and then salted any possible entrance in the building. Meanwhile, Ellen and I tended Jo as she laid on the ground bleeding. She was already covered in blood, and the wound on her torso kept getting worse by the passing second.

"Boys, I need some help here!" Ellen yelled.

I removed my belt and wrapped it on the upper part of the wound, creating a tourniquet. Ellen lifted her as she did the lower part, so there was a limited amount of blood flow. Quickly I got up, searching for fabrics we could use for tending her wounds. I found some canvas and cheesecloth. Bringing those back, Ellen grabbed them, taking the canvas onto the injury, adding pressure to it. She then grabbed my hand, telling me to keep applying pressure. At the same time, she wrapped the cheesecloth over and over again around Jo's torso, making sure it was tight.

The Winchesters came over to check on the wound, finding the cheesecloth turning red. Dean's eyes widen in fear for Jo, Sam feeling the same. As all eyes were on Jo, who was groaning in pain. This was bad. Really, really, bad. We need to get Jo to a hospital and quick; otherwise, she is going to bleed to death.

Where the fuck is you, Castiel! I thought.

Ellen had a clear thought telling Dean to find any way to communicate with Bobby. She then ordered Sam to find any medical supplies to use while telling to keep the pressure on the wound. What we all did was Ellen demanded, trying to focus on the task at hand.

I stared at Jo, seeing her in pain. Growing up, I found Jo to be the tough one in the family. Miss Extravert and adventures of the group. And to see my older sister like this, all wounded and…and dying is too much. Ellen grabbed hold of my hands. I looked down over Jo's wound to realize my hands were shaking. Everything was overwhelming, and my anxiety started picking up again that my hands were shaking.

"Sam, some help here, please?" Ellen called out.

Sam came over as Ellen instructed him to help check on the wound. I got out of the way so they could do their work. I tried to distract myself, going over the list as my claircognizance depicts the situation. There are seven hellhounds outside waiting. Castiel is trapped somewhere, unable to escape. Lucifer is in Carthage. There are reapers everywhere. And Jo is going to die. I shook my head at the last bit of detail.

We need Castiel to either heal Jo or transport her to a hospital. He's the only chance of saving her.

Sometime later, Sam and Ellen were done stitching up Jo's wound and put clean bandages on her. Dean was talking to Bobby on the radio, trying to give out details. Dean didn't know about the reapers, but Ellen came over to give more information. I sat next to Jo, holding her hand.

"Sky, in my boot, is my knife." Jo panted. Carefully, I took a knife out from her boot. It was dad's iron knife, as his initials were carved into the blade. I looked at her confused, hoping she is not intending on giving it to me. Sadly, Jo gave a small smile, followed by a nod. "Take care of it for me."

"You're not gonna die," I whispered.

"Sis, stop lying to yourself." She murmured. "Though, thanks for the optimism."

Unable to argue, I put the knife in my pocket, making sure it was secured. Right now, I want nothing to do but stay close to my sister. So, sitting next to her, I held her hand. She squeezed mine tight, cutting off circulation to regulate her pain. Ellen came over, whispering assurance that everything will be okay. Meanwhile, Sam and Dean were discussing a plan. Sam was quiet though Dean being furious at the state of the position could be heard.

"Stop," Jo finally said. The boys looked at her. "Guys, stop. Can we, uh, be realistic about this, please?"

Sam and Dean came over as Jo inhales sharply before continuing. "I can't move my legs. I can't be moved. My guts are being held in by an ace bandage. We got to…we got to get our priorities straight here. Number one – I'm not going anywhere."

"Joanna Beth, you stop talking like that –" Ellen started.

"Mom," Jo pleaded. "I can't fight. I can't walk. But I can do something. We've got propane,

wiring, rock salt, iron nails – everything we need."

"Everything we need?" Sam asked.

"To build a bomb, Sam." Jo clarified.

"Jo, no," I whispered.

"You got another plan? You got any other plan?" Jo asked. "Those are hellhounds out there, guys. They've got all of our scents. Those bitches will never stop coming after you. We let the dogs in, you guys hit the roof, make a break for the building next over, and I can wait here with my finger on the button. Rip those mutts a new one. Or at least get you a few minutes' head start, anyway."

"No," my voice breaking, as my eyes became watery.

"No, I . . . I won't let you." Ellen agreed.

"This is why we're here, right? If I can get us a shot on the Devil. . ." Jo said as she looked up at Dean. "Dean, we have to take it."

"No. That's not-"Ellen begged.

"Mom." Jo interrupted. "This might literally be your last chance to treat me like an adult. You might want to take it."

Ellen and I started crying. Jo was going to sacrifice herself to let the rest of us escape. Ellen looked into Jo's eyes, who nodded back at her. Mom took a deep breath, looking at the boys. "You heard her. Get to work."

So, we went to work, collecting rock salts, iron nails, propane, batteries, wires, and other hardware supplies to create a bomb. Once all the material was assembled, Sam and Dean worked on loading the bombs while Ellen created the trigger. With my hands still shaking, I sat next to Jo, keeping her comfortable if not having the last moments with my older sister. After the bomb was made, Ellen pulled me to the side so the Winchesters could say their goodbyes.

"Mom," I started but couldn't manage a sound.

Ellen hugged me, "It's gonna be all right, honey. You can do this. I know you can."

Her words had me confused. What does she mean I can do this? Shouldn't she say, "we can do this?" At first, I thought she was giving me more support until looking at her eyes. For a moment, I thought she was going to die too, but Ellen gave an assuring smile to confirm my theory was false, if not kissing my cheek. Sighing in relief, we went back to see Dean kissing Jo.

I knelt down to Jo and carefully hugged her, "Say hi to dad for me."

"I will," Jo whispered.

I nodded, kissing Jo on the forehead before getting up and joining the Winchesters. Ellen was next as she sat down next to Jo taking her hand. Whatever Jo saw made her cry.

"Mom, no." Jo cried.

"Somebody's got to let them in. And like you said, you're not moving. " Ellen said. "You got me, Jo. And you're right, this is important. But I will not leave you here alone."

"Mom," I pleaded.

Ellen turned around, facing me, "I'm sorry, Skylar, I love you so much. But I got to do this."

"But mom," I cried.

"Get goin' now, boys. Make sure Skylar is safe." Ellen ordered.

"Ellen," Dean started.

"I said go," Ellen said.

Before I could even protest, Dean wrapped his arms around me, dragging us outside of the hardware store. I tried to fight him off to join my family. However, Dean kept a firm hold, while another hand wrapped around my mouth to silence me. When we were outside to the ladder steps, there was no chance of escaping them, so I followed as we raced out of the bomb zone.

I felt Jo's death first on the roof of the other building. It was smooth and peaceful, like the weight was taken off my shoulders. At the same time, I felt drowsier. Dean literally had to yank my arm to disconnect the knowing of Jo's death. When it came to my mother, Ellen, it was entirely another story. I felt her anxiety, sadness, and anger. The Winchesters and I were running down the street until we stop wondering why the bomb hadn't gone off.

Suddenly the bomb went off, sending a blast of air follow by fire. For a moment, I felt my body burned then stopped. The shock has me catatonic, watching the flames engulfed the hardware store. My family was dead. Dad, Mom, Jo, and Ash are gone now.

"Come on, Sky," Dean murmured, pulling me away towards the woods.

Shedding tears, I ran with the Winchesters. If this mission doesn't succeed, at least I'll see my family in an hour or so in heaven. We made it to William Jasper's farm. There we saw men being possessed by demons just standing there while a lone man was shoveling in a large mass dirt pile. I can only assume the man working was Lucifer due to his face starting to blister.

"I guess we know what happened to some of the townspeople," Dean said quietly.

"Okay." Sam agreed.

"Last words guys?" I asked quietly.

Dean and Sam looked at each other and then at me. Dean nodded, "I think I'm good."

"Yeah. Me too," Sam said. "And Sky-"

"Yea-" I was cut off as Sam kissed me again by surprise. A kiss of a desperately dying man whose fate is unknown at this moment. Urgently I kissed back until Sam pulled away. We both panted, looking at a surprised Dean. Hey, the man is suspicious now he knows there is genuine tension.

I panted, "You guys are the best friends I could ever have."

Dean nodded as he shoved his hand into his pocket and handed me the keys. "You stay here. If things go bad, leave."

I stared at the Winchesters realizing this is it—all or nothing in killing Lucifer. Unable to say anything, I nodded, holding the keys close to my chest. The brothers patted my shoulders one last time and looked ahead.

"Here goes nothin'," Dean said.

The boys split up as Dean went around the ritual while Sam went straight forward. I hid behind the bushes, watching them though ready to run. My heart was racing, and my hands were shaking as my anxiety went sky high.

"Hey!" Sam called out. "You wanted to see me?!"

Lucifer stopped shoveling, turning around to see his true vessel. The Devil smiled, setting the shovel down and leaned on it. He acted so casual after everything he did. Tossing the shovel away, wiping the dirt off his hands as he approached Sam.

"Well, Sam, you don't need that gun here," Lucifer said. "You know I'd never hurt you. Not

really."

Dean silently went up to Lucifer, aiming the Colt at his head. "Yeah? Well, I'd hurt you."

Lucifer turned his head when Dean cocked the gun. He said something before firing the round straight into Lucifer's head. Instantly the archangel dropped dead with a bullet hold center of his forehead. At the moment, the field was engrossed in silence. Have we done it? Have we finally killed the Devil and stopped the Apocalypse?

But why aren't the demons attacking? They just stood there watching, still waiting. If somebody's leader just got assassinated, they would go straight for the attack. Avenge their leader. They just stood there.

And then it happens, Lucifer gasped, standing up rubbing his head. He cried out, oww, breathing in sharply. The Colt didn't work. My family died for nothing. Sam and Dean stood there dumbfounded as the Devil stood with a starburst hole in his forehead, looking pissed.

"Where did you get that?" Lucifer demanded. Dean was not answering, then got smacked by the archangel causing him to fly over and collide into a tree. When Dean was out of the way, the bullet hole healed, and Lucifer stared at Sam as if nothing happened. "Now . . . where were we?"

I quietly went over to Dean, making sure he was okay. He laid on the ground unconscious but still breathing. Looking up, I watched the confrontation between vessel and archangel.

"Don't feel too bad, Sam. There's only five things in all creation that gun can't kill, and . . . I just happen to be one of them. But if you give me a minute, I'm almost done." Lucifer said, picking up his shovel and went back to digging. Sam ran over to us, checking on Dean's condition since he is not waking up. Lucifer turned around, clearing his throat, "You know… I don't suppose you'd just say "yes" right here and now? End this whole tiresome discussion? That's crazy, right?"

Sam stood up, "It's never gonna happen!"

"Oh, I don't know, Sam. I think it will. " Lucifer said, back to shoveling. "I think it'll happen soon - - within six months. And I think it'll happen . . . in Detroit."

"You listen to me, you son of a bitch. I'm gonna kill you myself. You understand me? I'm going to rip your heart out!" Sam yelled.

"That's good, Sam. You keep fanning that fire in your belly – all that pent-up rage. I'm gonna need it." Lucifer said.

I stood there behind Sam, worried about where this would lead to. Worried I was going to lose him as well. As panic kindle in us hunters, the demons remained standing in a catatonic state.

"What did you do?" Sam asked. "What did you do to this town?"

"Oh, I was very generous with this town. One demon for every able-bodied man." Lucifer answered.

"And the rest of them?" I unknowing asked.

Lucifer stopped shoveling and looked at me directly in the eye. "In there. I know – it's awful. But . . . These horsemen are so demanding. So, it was . . . women and children first."

I gasped, covering my mouth to suppress a sob. A town with a population of a couple of a hundred people died from the Devil's genocide. Just looking at the ground, I could see a couple of limbs sticking out. My stomach churned at the sight of so much death.

"I know what you must think of me, Sam. But I have to do this. I have to. You, of all people, should understand. " Lucifer said.

"Well, what's that supposed to mean?" Sam asked.

Lucifer tossed the shovel walking over to us. "I was a son. A brother, like you. A younger brother. And I had an older brother who I loved. Idolized, in fact. And one day, I went to him, and I begged him to stand by me, and Michael . . . Michael turned on me. Called me a freak. A monster. And then he beat me down. All because I was different. Because I had a mind of my own. Tell me something, Sam. Any of this sounds familiar?"

Sam stood there, eyes watery, understanding the situation he felt with Dean and John. He wanted to live normal life to go to college, get married, and have kids. Not the hunter business. And that leads to a massive conflict to this day.

"Anyway . . ." Lucifer said, turning towards his minions. "You'll have to excuse me. Midnight is calling. And I have a ritual to finish. Don't go anywhere. Not that you could if you would."

As Lucifer chanted the incantation for the ritual, Sam came back. I shook Dean violently in trying to wake him up. We have to leave now. There are only three minutes left until midnight. Lucifer turned around, facing the demon's arms spread out. Finally, Dean waked up just too late.

"Now repeat after me. We offer up our lives, blood, souls—"Lucifer said as the demons repeated. "To complete this tribute."

One by one, the demons burst into light inside their vessels dying. Wait, why would Lucifer kill his creations? Unless the demon Crowley was correct on the fallen archangels' intentions. Lucifer looked at us with a smile.

"What? They're just demons." He said.

All of a sudden, the ground began to shake. Lucifer turned around facing the mass grave, arms spread like some welcoming hug. A silent flap of wings could be heard beside us hunters. On our left was Castiel, kneeling down with a finger against his lips, indicating we had to be silent. He placed a hand on us before teleporting in a flash of light.

In a blink, we were back in the Impala. As the earth continues to quake, I handed Dean the keys, which he accepted, driving away. We left Carthage in defeat. Lucifer has awakened the pale horsemen Death, and my mother and sister died in vain.

For an hour, none of us could say a word, comprehending what just happen today. Once the shock has passed, I knelt forward, elbows on my knees while hands were covering my face, and cried. They are gone. My family… they're dead. All of them died in the most horrific way imaginable. I was alone now, with no bloodlines left. No one to walk life with.

A hand rested on my back, starting to rub it, but I shifted away. I glared at the person seeing it was Castiel.

"This was your fault," I yelled.

Castiel didn't reply, just stared at me.

"Now hold up," Dean started.

"No, none of this would have happened if he didn't disappear on us." I cried. "My mother and sister would still be alive if you stayed with the group."

"I'm sorry, but Lucifer had me in a trap." Castiel defended.

"And you wouldn't be if ya fucking stay!" I snapped.

Castiel sighed, knowing there was no way to defend himself. Instead, he raised a hand and gently pressed his fingers against my forehead. All of a sudden, everything went black.

.o0o.

Third POV

Bobby sat in his wheelchair, impatiently throughout the entire night. He hadn't gotten any contact from the others since last night. Now it was nearly six o'clock in the morning. He prayed to Sam, Dean, Ellen, Skylar, and Castiel will come back. But he also dreaded that Jo's body is here waiting to be cremated for a proper burial.

Probably around seven in the morning did Bobby hear the front door open. Mustering the strength for the dreaded news, he rolled himself to the front door entryway. At the entrance was Dean holding the door, while Sam carried an unconscious Skylar in his arms covered in blood. There was no Ellen.

"Is she. . ." Bobby stopped, not wanting to consider the girl in Sam's arms is dead.

"No, Cass knocked her out," Dean answered.

"And Ellen?" The older hunter asked.

"Dead," Sam answered.

Bobby sighed then looked at Skylar. This was going to be tough on the poor girl. To lose one family member is one thing, but to lose everyone is another.

"Sam, put her in the spare bedroom," Bobby instructed.

Sam nodded as he carried Skylar upstairs to the guest bedroom. As he did that, Bobby gestured Dean to the living room to discuss the situation. Dean told Bobby everything that had happened to feel the guilt for Ellen and Jo's death. If he had known that the Colt couldn't kill Lucifer, they would still be alive. Hell, he shouldn't have asked for their help.

Bobby sighed, resting a hand on Dean's shoulder, "Get some rest, son."

"I don't know if I can," Dean muttered.

Bobby nodded, knowing the feeling.

Meanwhile, Sam laid Skylar on the full-size bed. He generously removed her boots, coat, holster, and weapons before walking over to the bathroom to get a fresh washcloth to remove the blood from her face and hands. She was covered in Jo's blood that dried and caked over her body. Once he returned, he gingerly removed the blood the best he could before tucking Skylar under the sheets.

Afterward, he took a seat in a rocking chair watching her sleep. He felt guilty and ashamed of himself after what happened yesterday. For nearly two years, since Devil's Gate, he promised Skylar he would fix this. To make sure she and everyone would be safe. Now he has failed. The look on Skylar's face when the bomb went off, the agony she felt when Dean took her away, and bitterness at Castiel…just proves it.

"I'm sorry, Sky," Sam whispered, leaning forward and taking her hand.

The rest of the day was spent in mourning. Nearly everyone was asleep throughout the day and afternoon until the sun began to set. Bobby was the first to wake up, rolling himself over to the kitchen, figuring out what dinner would be. The moment he opens in the fridge, he heard crying going on upstairs. He sighed, knowing Skylar is awake.

.o0o.

Skylar's POV

I gasped, waking up from a terrible nightmare. The dream was about how my mom and sister died after the Winchesters and I left. Ellen got up, went to the door, removed the iron chains, and kicked away the salt lines. Afterward, she walked back to Jo, sitting down and holding her in her arms. When Jo died, Ellen broke down crying, holding her close. Once she gained her composure, the hellhounds barged in, and mom blew them up.

A pair of arms embraced me as I cried. Looking up, seeing Sam, I just lost it, sobbing into his chest. Sam did not mind as he held me, rubbing his hand on my back, not saying a word. They're gone, Jo and Ellen are gone. The thought, witnessing, and mourning is painful to me. Like somebody punched a hole in my chest.

"They're gone," I sobbed.

"I'm sorry," Sam apologized, holding me tightly.

I just continued to cry, losing track of time. Once I stopped crying, having nothing but sniffles, Sam suggested I take a shower. I nodded, getting off him, went to the small bathroom, had a quick shower, washed away the blood, dirt, and stress off me. Once clean, I realized I didn't bring a spare set of clothing. I went to the door to see if the halls were empty and then looked down to find a pair of fresh clothes on the floor. Taking them to find my pants and somebody's shirt, I put them on and came out going downstairs to see Bobby in the kitchen getting dinner ready.

I came over, grabbing the steaks out of the fridge. Bobby said thanks, to which I nodded, not speaking verbally. I was going to get a pan to cook the steaks when Bobby grabbed my hand.

"We need to talk," Bobby said.

"About what?" I whispered.

"Where you go from here." He murmured, gesturing me to sit down.

I sat down, facing Bobby as we discuss my future. Bobby gave me three options to which I could take. Option 1, I could either go back to college, get my degree, and live a somewhat normal life. Option 2, I finish this semester, take online courses, and start hunting with them. Or option 3, drop everything and follow the same path as everyone else in the room. The possibilities scared me in which way I should take. Do I want to be an official hunter or go back to college?

Bobby patted my knee, telling me to think about it. He was right, though. This was a crucial decision in where my future lies. Deep down, I want nothing to do but avenge my family and kill Lucifer. But at the same time, I thought about Ellen's personal instruction and the deal mom and Jo made three years ago that I would go on the safe path and live a normal life.

Later in the evening, the Winchesters, Bobby, and I huddle around the fireplace for a memorial service, you could say. Bobby had the picture from before developed as we all looked at it. Meanwhile, the television was on playing the news of the events happening within twenty-four hours.

". . . Just received an update that the governor has declared a state of emergency for Paulding County, including the towns of Marion, Fetterville, and Carthage. The storm system has reportedly touched off some tornadoes in the area. Death tolls have yet to be estimated, but state officials expect the loss of life and property to be staggering." The female news reporter announced.

Probably Lucifer covering his tracks of what happened in Carthage of genocide for his ritual to resurrect death. The number of death tolls and environmental disasters proven there are no chances to identify bodies. The thought of not having my mom and sister's body back in Nebraska had me shed tears.

Bobby leaned forward and tossed the picture into the flame. The boys and I watch in a moment

of silence as the fire consumed the photograph. No one said a word that night. All we did was standing by the fire, drink beer, and mourned.

The following day was the day I made my decision. I walked downstairs to the living room, where Sam and Dean sat by the table doing research. Bobby rolled out of the spare room that was converted to his bedroom. He stared at me, understandingly, when seeing the backpack.

"Guys, Skylar got somethin' to say," Bobby announced.

Sam and Dean looked up, wondering what is going on. Seeing me packed and dressed, they both stood up, walking over to me. I took a deep breath before staring at them.

"I'm done," I said.

"What do you mean you're done?" Dean asked.

I took another deep breath, "I'm done with hunting."

"You sure about this?" Sam asked.

I nodded, "It's the last thing I can do for my mom. She and Jo wanted me to be safe…and if I continued to follow your lead…I might as well be signing my death certificate."

Dean rubbed his neck, sheepishly to suppress his disappointment while Sam took a deep breath.

Sam walked over and hugged me. I stiffened at first, surprised, thinking he would nod and go back to research. Gaining my composure, I hugged him back in return.

"Can we at least give you a ride back to Peru?" Dean offered.

I pulled back from Sam and looked at Dean, nodding, "I appreciate it."

Dean nodded as he heads out to get the Impala ready. Bobby came over, handing me an envelope filled with instructions to do after Christmas. I nodded, hugging him in gratitude. Without Bobby, I don't know what I am going to do.

"Be careful, and remember you still got me and the idjits," Bobby said.

I chuckled slightly, "Thanks, Bobby."

Afterward, Sam, Dean, and I drove back to Nebraska. No one barely talks, though Sam decided to sit next to me in the back seat. I curled up next to him, needing comfort and support. Also, this might be the last time I would ever see them again.

But it's the right thing to do.


Thanks for your patience, you guys. I needed a break, for I know this chapter will be the hardest since Jo and Ellen died. Don't worry; there will be more chapters to come.

If there's an episode you want to see Skylar in, post a review.

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