Skipping Stone

by Meztli14

I thought the dreams came about because I watched the episodes right before going to bed. But they weren't dreams. It was my new reality. Season 1 and onward, AU-ish.

11. The Kidz are Aiight - Part 2

Here's the second part to The Kidz are Aiight. I know it took forever. I would like to thank SpnKsl5, catetay, Kalaia, .angel, Marloweee1856, CallmeEevee, PeriAce, TheDevilsDaughter, alexc123, Plexi Pink, Fandomwriter45, and Neese96 for the favorites, follows, and alerts. Means a bunch! Well, a lot has changed since I last updated. I moved to a different house but really I was living with a relative for nearly three months before we found a house. Crazy. But alas, on with the show!

---

Crap. This is bad, like really bad. My eyes bounced from Dana to the changeling next to me and both were completely still, only myself having free movement.

"They're okay, just out of the way for our conversation." The fair-haired woman cradled her (what did TV Bobby call it?) Day Runner of Death close, her light brown three-piece suit pressed neatly and hair clipped back properly.

"Who are you?" Best to play dumb. Didn't want her to know that I knew too much.

"My name is Atropos. Some also know me as Fate but I'm not here about me, this is about you."

I shifted my body sideways, that way my med bag was out of her line of sight. The flap was already lifted up and out of the way from when I had my hand gripping the angel blade during the car ride. I knew the angelic weapon probably wouldn't kill Atropos but hopefully it'd at least damage her. If things went really bad, I could try calling for backup.

"What about me?" I asked, moving in a circle as Atropos stepped near, trying to keep some distance between us. I tugged at the frozen changeling, dragging the living statue with me around the front room. It was too risky to let it go, even in its frozen state.

"You know, you caused quite the uproar with my sisters and me. First was your conception and then mere months later, someone had the gall to come and take your thread. They came into our domain and stole from us. Sure we were outraged for years, we still are, but we had our jobs to do. And now suddenly your thread shows up again. But the thing is it's been back for years. We had no idea because someone powerful went through all the trouble of hiding it, changing it. Your age, birth date, birth place, genetics. All of it a sham. Even the thread material was different. We were tricked."

My heart started racing as she spoke but I pushed away the slight panic as she pointed a finger at me.

"It was only recently that some of that glamour fell away to expose you. Not only that, you've been meddling with the Winchesters. Meddling with certain plans."

I could feel the electricity in the air rubbing up against my senses, building along with her anger. As nervous as I was, I still had a part to play. "What are you talking about? What plans? What are you gonna do to Sam and Dean?"

"It has nothing to do with you. If you had stayed wherever you'd been taken to, everything would be fine. Getting rid of you would be one way of fixing things."

She muttered the last part, her eyes narrowed on me and my hand slipped into my bag, gripping the angel blade's hilt.

"Well, well, well, what have we here?"

Both our eyes went to the dark haired man lounging on the couch next to Dana, feet up on the coffee table and munching on a bag of cotton candy. Just the man I wanted to have words with. Atropos recognized him as well, just for a different reason than me.

"Loki." The fair-haired being glared at him, nearly baring her teeth at him.

Gabriel tilted his head at her, a small smirk curling his lips. "Atropos, always a pleasure. I was wondering who I felt visiting Indiana. So…" He stood up, bag of cotton candy still in hand but this time he conjured up a can of Orange Slice to sip from, eyes lighting up with mirth. "…What are we up to?"

Atropos fixed her glasses again. "None of your business, Loki. There is no reason for you to be here."

Gabriel's face morphed into a sad yet playful expression. "Aww, I'm hurt you would say something like that to me." His frown turned right side up. "But then again, it makes me incredibly curious. So what were we talking about, hmm?" He wrapped an arm around Atropos' shoulders, wriggle his eyebrows at the blonde woman then turning his eyes on me.

Before he said anything more Atropos growled at him, throwing his arm off and wiping her shoulder of dirt only she saw. "I have no time to deal with you Loki." She straightened her outfit then turned to me. "Consider this a warning. Watch yourself."

She made no sound as she disappeared and I turned my gaze to Gabriel. "She really gone?"

The archangel-in-disguise nodded, taking another pull of his soda. "Yeah, she's gone."

I twirled a finger around the still frozen room. "So this is you now?"

He shrugged his shoulders. "I figured you'd want to talk. But here, hold this real quick."

He gave me the can of Orange Slice but I dropped it immediately, crying out when feeling the searing pain in my hand that shot up my arm and spread across my body. The aluminum container disappeared mid fall and I gritted my teeth, the sharp pain already gone.

"What the Hell Ga-Loki?" I spat at him, remembering at the last second to say his fake name. Never knew who was listening. My breath was coming out in little hisses while I processed the pain. I had an inkling of what he had done but I wasn't sure it was possible without direct touch.

He reached out and gave me a quick tap to my arm that washed away the residual sting. "Sorry, just a precaution. Didn't think I'd have to resort to the heavy duty warding."

My mind went to the sigils that had been carved into TV Dean's ribs. If the pain was any indication, I now had my own set. "Enochian?"

Gabriel flopped back down on the couch next to Dana, pulling a chunk of cotton candy out of the bag to eat. "Yes and no. It's written in Enochian but not the same exact warding you're thinking of. My own custom warding."

That made sense. I hadn't just felt it in my chest but everywhere. I wondered what my x-rays would look like. That'd be hard to explain. But I had other things on my mind.

I could ask him up front about what Atropos was talking about but I knew if I pushed him he'd clam up. I'd have to question him about that later. But there was something specific I wanted to ask him.

"Hey Loki?"

"…Yesss?" He drew out the word, eyeing me warily.

"I have a favor-hey! It's nothing too big." I grumbled at Gabriel who had started to shake his head no once I said I had a favor to ask. "I just need you to keep an eye on some people."

He raised an eyebrow at me. "Who?"

At least he was willing to ask. "I don't know the last name but it's this guy named Nick and his wife Sarah. They live in Pike Creek, Delaware and they also have a baby at some point in the next year or two."

"And why do you want me to keep an eye on them?"

I tilted my head in consideration. I could tell him about the burglar but I wasn't sure if I wanted to tell him about Nick being a meat suit for a certain someone. Probably be best to keep that to myself. "In the future someone breaks into their house and kills both Sarah and the baby."

Gabriel froze, amber eyes narrowing at my words. He banished away the bag of cotton candy, leaning forward with his hands clasped together.

"When does this happen?"

I did a quick mental calculation. "Sometime around 2009 or 2010. Maybe the later half of 2008."

He was quiet, gaze staring out into the distance and completely still. It was strange to see considering he was always full of energy whenever I saw him. This went on for a few seconds when he suddenly looked up at me. He didn't say anything, just stared, almost like he was studying me.

"I'll do it."

My eyes widened at how serious his voice was. I actually thought it'd be harder to convince him but he folded fairly quickly. "You serious?"

He nodded, lips curling into a type of smile one would call cold and vicious. "Of course, I'm a Trickster, remember?"

It was probably inappropriate but I was very happy with his ominous answer. Nick was certainly one of the people in the Supernatural world that did not deserve what happened to him, at least I thought so. Now all I needed to do was somehow save Bela. Asking Gabe had crossed my mind but I didn't want to push my luck. I'd have to bring it up with Sam and Dean. Besides, that way she'd owe them a debt.

As well as this conversation had gone, there was still something else that was bothering me. "Loki, have you been hiding something from me?"

He raised an eyebrow. "What are you talking about Angie?"

"Atropos. She said some things that don't make any sense. Did…did you mess with my thread?"

He tilted his head at me. "Your thread?"

He was faking his confusion. There's no way he wouldn't know about the jobs that God gave the Fate sisters. "Don't play dumb Loki, you know exactly what I'm talking about. Someone went to their place and messed with my thread. Changed my thread."

He rolled his eyes at me. "And you think that was me?"

I waved a hand at him. "We both know you've got the juice for it. Not to mention that this changeling is terrified of me." At this point I pushed the fake girl toward Gabe to emphasize my point. "Why are you going through all this trouble Loki? What exactly am I?"

He was grim-faced, no longer trying to lie. He was quiet, eyes narrowed as he studied my face. Finally he looked away, resigned. He gave a deep sigh, long and weary. The sound made me frown and suddenly I didn't want to know anymore. It was too late by then. He was already speaking.

~~~SPN~~~

"Can't believe you left her alone with that thing Sam." Dean's hands tightened on the steering wheel, muttering angrily at his brother.

They were on their way to Dana's house after Sam had picked him up at the hotel. Dean had found what he needed at the hardware store and made his way to the hotel to pack up everything before heading over to the changeling's house. He was just wiping down the room when there was a knock on the door. He'd immediately gotten his gun out, pressing it against the wood as he looked out the peephole. He'd been surprised to see Sam on the other side but it quickly turned to annoyance and anger, both covers for his worry when he realized Angie wasn't with his brother.

When he'd asked where the petite female was, he was told she was back at the house. Alone. With a changeling. That had started an argument between the siblings about Angie and her safety. Which was still going.

"I'm serious Dean. You should see the thing, it's terrified of her. She has her gun and I'm pretty sure her silver knife thing, she'll be fine. Beside, remember what Becca said, she went up against a shapeshifter, those have to be way stronger than a changeling, a young changeling at that. She'll be fine."

Dean gave a glare to his brother before muttering at him again. "If she gets hurts I'm gonna kick your ass."

Sam rolled his eyes and Dean caught sight of the faint smile on his face. "She'll be fine Dean. Quit worrying."

Dean kept silent, his shoulders tense as he turned on Dana's street. Immediately Sam pointed out the single mother who was standing in her driveway, garage opened and empty.

Once he pulled up next to her, she waved behind her. "Angela figured hiding your car in the garage would help you guys keep a low profile."

He nodded at her and drove forward, Dana following them and flipping a switch that activated the large door to rumble close.

Exiting the Impala, he threw the keys to Sam who was heading toward the trunk as he reached into the back seat for the duffle bag filled the supplies for the flamethrowers. The trunk shutting had him looking over at Sam who nodded at him, lifting a second duffle bag for Dean to see.

"Where's Angie?" Dean asked Dana as they followed her out of the garage into a small hallway that emptied out to a small laundry room.

"In the living room with…that thing." Dana's arms were crossed, her shoulders hunched up defensively.

Dean nodded at the red-haired woman, noting her tense shoulders. Sam had told him what happened at the party. She had a reason to be freaked out.

Opening the door to the right led them into an open kitchen, black granite countertops gleaming. A few feet behind the breakfast bar was circular kitchen table with four chairs and beyond that were a couple of mahogany leather couches, forming a small living room. A flat-screen TV sat on a glass stand in the farthest left corner next to a large wide window with a coffee table placed in front of the three-seater and a large mirror fixed on the far wall above a stone fireplace. But it was the two females standing up that held Dean's attention.

Hearing them enter Angie had turned around and stood, giving the pair of Winchester siblings a nod. Dean may not have known Angie for long but he could tell something wasn't right. Her posture was too rigid, even if she was smiling at them while playing prison guard.

Upon entering the kitchen Angie had tugged the small girl to her feet, gripping her elbow when she stood. Looking at the pair Dean could see what Sam was talking about in the car. The young changeling was stiff, leaning slightly away from Angie, her head looking down but tilted the slightest. Just enough to keep Angie in her peripheral vision. Even from across the room Dean could see the slight tremble in the changeling's shoulders.

"Everything okay in here?" Dean asked, looking over Angie. She seemed fine but again Dean could see that something happened when he was away. A quick glance at his brother showed Sam with a slight frown on his face as he studied Angie. He'd noticed it too.

"Yeah, everything's been quiet so far." Angie reported, slight smile on her face.

Dean was more sure something had happened. But that would be for later, right now they needed to do something about the changeling. He glanced at Sam with a quick look to Dana. Sam understood and gave a nod back.

"Ms. Keel, why don't you come with me. We can talk some more?" Sam asked, steering Dana back through the laundry room and to the garage. From his quick look around the house, Dean could see how open the layout was. They wouldn't be able to talk privately. The laundry room had a sealed door but was too close to the living room. The garage was the next best thing besides leaving the house.

Dean nodded at Angie, "We'll be back." She had watched Sam escort Dana back the way they came before nodding at the older Winchester. With one more look at the prisoner and guard, Dean retraced his steps, entering the garage where Sam stood leaning against the Impala and Dana pacing in front of him, arms crossed but also nibbling on her nails nervously.

As soon as the door was shut, the worried mother turned on the older brother. "He said you could get my daughter back. How? Where is she?"

Dean rose an eyebrow at Sam. You tell her anything?

Sam shook his head. Nothing.

Dean took a breath. "We don't know yet."

Dana scoffed at his answer before returning to her pacing.

Sam stepped in. "Not yet but we will. You gotta be patient. We will find her. Trust us, this is what we do."

Dana paused, eying Sam before turning her calculating gaze on Dean. She bit at her lip. "Who are you? What is that…thing pretending to be my daughter?"

Dean gave Sam another look. Here goes nothing. "My name's Dean, this is my brother Sam. The woman in the living room is our friend Angie. We're what you call Hunters. We track down things like what's pretending to be your daughter, that are hurting or killing people, and we get rid of them."

Dana went still, her gaze locked on his face before she looked over at Sam. Again she took a few seconds to study his brother. She seemed satisfied about something because she turned back to Dean. "What is posing as my daughter?"

Sam took a step forward. "It's called a changeling. They take the place of the children in a family. From there, they…" Sam paused, looking a bit uncomfortable. "…they feed off the parents, starting with the mother."

Dana stiffened, her arms tightening around herself. "W-what? What does that mean? How?"

Dean took over. "Have you had any soreness around your neck recently?" He watched as tears formed on her eyes and, almost subconsciously, her hand drifted up the left side of her neck. He took a soft step forward, asking gently. "Dana?"

A tear managed to escape but she took a deep breath and pulled her hair to the side, offering Dean and Sam a view of her neck. A single dark circular bruise surrounded by smaller indentions. Seeing the symmetry to the mark, Dean was reminded about what Angie had said regarding sucker fishes. Dean glanced at his brother who gave a nod.

"Where did they take my daughter?" Dana had turned back around, her arms still crossed over her chest but her eyes had hardened slightly.

"Changelings snatch the kids and then hide them somewhere underground. We're thinking a basement of some type. Chances are right here in this neighborhood."

Dana was nodding now. "And how do you kill them?"

Dean paused, studying Dana. He was fairly sure she wouldn't go on a spree if he said how to kill the changelings. "With fire."

Dana started nodding. "So if you deal with the changeling in my living room, you can start finding my daughter?"

"Yes and no. Dana, has there been other accidents in the neighborhood?"

Angie had told them already that there were other deaths but they hadn't made the papers. This way Dana might be able to tell them if she knew the families. Dean watched as Sam's question dawned on the worried mother. A slight look of horror flashed across her face. "Those were all changelings?"

Dean gave a curt nod. "Chances are, yeah. Again we could get rid of your changeling but that wouldn't help the problem. There's still the others to worry about."

Dana was nodding again. "What do you need from me?"

Sam jumped in. "Can you write down all the addresses for the families that had accidents? Also if you happen to have a map of the neighborhood, I'd like to see that."

Dean nodded at Sam's words. "While you do that, we're gonna talk to Angie, come up with a plan."

Dana nodded and she left the laundry room, Dean and Sam following behind her into the kitchen. Immediately the pseudo-Katie watched the red-haired woman walk by and moved to follow but Angie's grip in her wrist tightened causing the changeling to flinch. Dana disappeared off to the right, toward the front of the house and soon Dean could hear quiet thumps as the woman made her way upstairs.

Approaching Angie, the brunette gave Dean and his brother small smiles while pressing her fingers against the changeling's ears to seal out sound, whispering. "So you got a plan?"

Dean, taking note of the suddenly stiff changeling, shrugged and kept to soft tones like Angie had. "It's getting there. Our best bet is Mommy Dearest. That'll take care of the others. I wanna find where they're keeping the kids first though. Depending on if we figure that out soon, we can do this tonight. Two of us will deal with Mom while the other one gets the kids out."

Sam and Angie nodded about him, but Sam let his eyes cut to the deafened changeling. "What about her?"

Dean grimaced. He'd like to deal with her as soon as possible but he wasn't sure if the young changeling had some kind of link with its mother. There wasn't anything in the folklore but he didn't want to be caught flat-footed. Dean frowned, listening to Dana move around upstairs. "Not yet. Let's get our equipment in order and the kids found. We'll deal with the fry right before we leave. Unless Angie wants to save us the trouble and just tell us who the mom is or where the kids are at?"

Dean saw the way Angie's lips turn downward in a frown. "Sorry guys, you're gonna have to do the majority of this hunt by yourselves."

Dean could feel Sam glance at him before his brother turned back to the brunette. "What happened when we were gone Angie? We know something's wrong."

Angie studied the brothers, quiet in her assessment, no doubt thinking whether or not she should lie. She frowned again and Dean was willing to bet she figured out how useless it would be to try. "Fine. Dana had already gone into the house while I told Sam to leave. After he'd left I came into the front room but apparently there was a visitor waiting for me."

Dean glanced at Sam who looked equally anxious. "Who was it? The mother?"

Angie shook her head. "Worse."

With that one word Dean knew. His lips pursed themselves as his stomach rolled with the thought of Angie being by herself in the presence of one of them. His little brother seemed to also catch on as he was staring at Dean with wide, worried eyes. The oldest Winchester muttered to the petite woman before him, "Which one?"

"Atropos."

Dean nodded grimly at her. "What'd she want exactly?"

Angie frowned again, looking at Dean and Sam before she answered. "She wanted to pass on a warning."

Dean held back the curse word he wanted to release. "She threaten you?"

Angie gave a tight nod. "In not so many words, yeah. I'm meddling in things I shouldn't be; messing up the plan. So, to minimize more chances of her paying another visit, I'm gonna need to back off on this hunt. I'll still try tipping you off but I don't know how much I can give you."

Dean was already shaking his head. "No, me and Sam can figure this out on our own so from here on out you're gonna be sidelined for this whole hunt. Your safety is more important than getting the jump on a monster."

Sam jumped in as well. "Yeah, you've given us more information than we usually have. We'll be fine. I was even planning to use one of your ideas to figure out where the kids are."

Angie nodded. "Yeah, I'll stay here."

Dean raised his eyebrows at her words. "I've heard that before."

Angie chuckled. "For real this time though, I won't follow you. Besides, I don't know if the mother can somehow keep track of her tadpoles so I'll stay and make sure no one visits Dana."

Dean was satisfied with the arrangement. It'd keep Angie off Atropos' radar and hide her from the other changelings. Repetitive thumps from the front of the house had the trio of adults turning to see Dana walking back into the kitchen, a scrap of paper and what looked like a couple of street maps.

"Sorry, I wasn't sure which maps you wanted so I grabbed all the ones I could find." Dana gave Sam the stack she held and he immediately set to work splaying out the information on the kitchen table, asking for a pen or marker from their hostess.

With a quick nod to Angie, Dean pulled himself next to Sam, watching his brother glance at the three maps Dana had provided before he was satisfied with a fairly large one that had a good view of the whole Morning Hill community. One by one Sam read down the list Dana had provided and marked the addresses on the map. Besides Dana herself, there were four families that had accidents. And that was only families that the changeling didn't feel threatened. For all Dean knew, the entire community could be infected.

~~~SPN~~~

Four families so far. Five including Dana and her daughter. Sam's eyebrow furrowed. Angie's talk about that cop show had brought the idea of a geographical profile into Sam's thought process, which was why he'd asked for maps of the suburbia. The only thing they needed was dump sites but none of the mothers had died. Either way the houses of the families were more important.

"You see it?" Dean was standing next to him, studying his map.

Sam knew Dean would figure it out pretty quickly. As intelligent as Sam was, his older brother was just as if not more due to his developed street smarts. Dean just never broadcasted it. Sam's first inkling was when he had just started middle school and Dean had entered high school. They'd been on a hunt somewhere on the east coast and one evening he'd seen Dean sitting in a corner of the motel room, scribbling down on a piece of paper. His brother had become a bit defensive when Sam had drawn near, making a distraction so he could bundle the paper into a ball and hide it away.

It was hours of patience later that Sam fished the bundle of paper out from the bottom of the trash. Unfurling it showed a very complex math equation at the top of the paper. At Sam's young age he knew it was a really hard math problem with the words lim, cos, and sin. There were letters as well as what looked like little 2's above some of the other numbers. Dean's slanted handwriting filled out the rest of the page, line after line of numbers and letters. He had seen Dean's math homework from school and it wasn't the same. Those assignments had been closer to Sam's level with the answers being a mixture wrong and right, leaning more to the former.

When he'd taken Dean's scrap of paper to school and shown it to his math teacher he'd found out that it was college level calculus. Sam knew it would be a high level of math, he just wasn't prepared for it to be that high. Even without his teacher saying it, Sam knew what Dean had accomplished was incredible. More so considering Sam had watched him complete the equation in a few minutes, around five give or take. It took a few more days of recon before Sam figured out that while Dean turned in homework worthy of mid range grades he did the calculus on the side in his free time. He figured Dean did it so he wouldn't become bored.

No matter what his grades or the teachers said about Dean, Sam knew his brother was smart, scary smart like himself. It just made him sad that his brother didn't show it to anyone. It all came to a head when Dean announced he was leaving school. Sam was proud of the fact that he'd managed to convince Dean not to just drop out for nothing and instead to get a GED. Of course Dean had finished the test quickly and nearly every answer was correct except for a select number that had been agreed upon by the brothers. It'd be suspicious if Dean got every answer right. The only thing that had marred the happy occasion was Dean's insistence that their dad be told he'd dropped out of school to make more time for hunting. Sam had relented but he'd gotten a picture with his brother as Dean held his certificate.

Now, standing above the map, Sam vaguely wondered what Dean had done with it before answering his brother. "Yeah."

And he did. The houses Sam had marked formed a lopsided circle, one house being two blocks away while another two were just mere hundred feet away from each other. The downside was that these were families that had had 'accidental' deaths. There could be ten more homes infected with a changeling that hadn't caused trouble.

But even with only five families Sam and Dean saw the pattern. Four of the five homes were roughly equal in distance from a cluster of houses that was more or less the center of the poorly formed circle. The changeling 'burrow,' for lack of a better word, was somewhere in that area. Another problem was that there were roughly four or five houses within that area, two of them still in stages of construction. They would need to check each house. Or…

Sam looked over at Angie before finding Dana who had retreated to the kitchen, nursing a glass of water. "Dana? Do you mind showing me Katie's room?"

The worried mother had flinched when hearing Sam address her, the youngest Winchester noting the far off look in her eye, but she recovered and nodded, offering a soft "Sure," and started walking to the front of the house. Sam spared a glance at Dean and hurried after their hostess as she made her way up the stairs.

There were only three doors on the second level and Dana ignored the far right and center door, heading straight for the door off to the left. Stepping through the doorway Sam noted the desk sitting in the right corner, the small bookcase half filled, a dresser up against the wall on the doorway's left side, and a door ajar on his right that was no doubt the closet. The bed was made and there were a pair of shoes together in the other corner, under a large window that looked out to the backyard.

Angie's words about paying attention when visiting the houses where the accidents had happened played through his head. Dana's ex-husband had been killed at his place but what if…?

Sam eased the closet open, his eyes sharp as he searched. "Dana, the night of the accident, how was Katie? Was she was acting different?"

"Oh my God."

Sam's head jerked in Dana's direction, her eyes wide. "Dana?"

Her eyes started misting over, her breathing speeding up. Sam could see the beginnings of a possible panic attack. "Oh my God. She-she…That thing…What kind of mother am I?"

Sam approached her, grabbing her elbow and steering her to the bed. "Dana, you gotta tell me what's going on. I can't help if you don't tell me what's going on."

Dana took a few calming breaths. "She was different that morning. Quiet. She followed me around the house, staying close. Usually she's fairly independent, she'll find something to do, mostly read or draw but she was always just a few feet away from me. I thought she was having a moment, just being clingy and wanting her mom close. How could I not notice? I'm her mother, I should know my own child!"

She'd started to panic again toward the end of her speech so Sam gripped her by the shoulders, giving her a slight shake. "Dana, they've being doing this for centuries. It's what they do. You have nothing to get upset about. Fact of the matter is you did know."

Dana's eyes, which had been wide and lost, narrowed at his words and she turned them on him. "What?"

"The wariness. The reluctance to touch her. Your instincts were telling you what your mind couldn't comprehend. On a primal, maternal level you knew it wasn't your daughter."

Dana was quiet, her tears halted and she seemed calmer so Sam left her alone, going back to checking the room over. The changeling had had time to settle in so if there had been any evidence in Katie's room, chances are it was gone. But Angie had seemed certain he'd find something, so maybe it wasn't in the room.

Turning around Sam poked his head out the doorway and looking down the small hallway. There was a high possibility that two changelings were needed to take the kids. The theory held some merit. Sam ran the scenario in his head. They sneak in, one grabs the kid while the other just slips into the kids' beds, and the other changeling whisks the child way. Then again it didn't need to be done at night did it? That would be the perfect time to do it though. Also, Sam wondered how the changelings stole the appearance of the kids. Was it like a shapeshifter in that aspect? He wondered if Angie's unique blade would work.

Sam stepped back into the room. They wouldn't go through the house. The possibility of half-asleep family member venturing to the restroom in the middle of the night or early rising parents getting ready for work was too much of a risk. No, it'd have to be more subtle than that. His eyes zeroed in on the window. Walking toward it, Sam noted the slight scuff mark on the sill. Granted that could be from anything so he put it in the back of his mind. Second to be noticed was the missing screen. Most windows had an exterior screen to keep bugs out but this window didn't have one, unlike the windows in the kitchen and living room. They had to have come in from this point.

Not quite opening the window just yet, Sam gazed out. Sitting there on the roof of the garage was the missing screen. Noting it Sam studied the rest of the view. A large portion of supernatural creatures tended to have higher forms of abilities, whether it be strength or smell or whatever else. So considering this was only the second floor, he was sure a jump like this wouldn't be a problem.

A flash of color caught Sam's eye and he reached out, unlatching the lock and pushed up. Easing his upper body out the window the young hunter titled his head, studying the rust-colored mark that was smeared on the roof a few feet away from the window screen. Moving over a couple more inches and Sam spotted another smudge further down along the side of the house, above the door frame that lead out from what Sam had to guess was the laundry room. Turning to Dana Sam asked, "Can you show me the backyard?"

Again they made their way down the stairs and through the living room and kitchen where Dean was watching them with curiosity from the table as he put together the kerosene torches. Angie and the changeling watched their progress as well but the brunette woman nodded so at least Sam knew he was on the right track.

Entering the laundry room again, they headed through the door directly in front of them. Once passing the threshold Sam looked above the frame and reached up, his fingers swiping through the blotch.

"Is that…blood?"

Dana's voice grew shaky when she asked but as Sam tested the red substance with his forefinger and thumb, he shook his head. "No, it's some kind of dust or dirt."

With Dana following him Sam went back inside and stopped at the kitchen table, eyes roving over the map.

"You figure something out?"

Sam hummed at his brother, "Maybe."

Thinking back to a couple hours, Sam recalled his drive through the Morning Hill community. He'd taken Angie's advice and had paid as much attention as he could. Every time he'd pass an intersection Sam would look both ways, taking mental notes of the houses on both sides and of what people he could see. The area they were interested in had been at the end of the last intersection he'd passed before turning onto the block of the home that had been hosting the birthday party. He'd seen the skeletal innards of two homes that were being constructed and the reddish hue of the mounds of dirt that decorated the front lawn.

Again Sam found the address of Dana's friend and backtracked, confirming the area on the map was the same as the houses he'd seen when driving through early in the day.

Sam looked up, finding Dean's gaze already on him, and lifted his hand to show his brother. "I found this on the side of the house, above the door that leads out to the backyard. There's another mark on the roof of the house, below Katie's room."

Dean drew near, eyes squinted as he studied the stain on Sam's fingers. "What is it?"

"Dirt I think. Here, look." Sam tapped the semi-formed circle on the map. "I passed by this area on our way to seeing Dana. The two houses being constructed? They have huge piles of red dirt out front. That has to be it."

Dean was nodding, brows furrowed in thought. "Alright, we'll hit it tonight when it gets dark but since we have a few hours to kill, let's talk to the other families. See what happened, see if we can find more of those dirt smears around the houses."

"What about…"

Sam and Dean turned to Dana, her eyes looking over their shoulder once she had their attention. She was referring to the changeling sitting next to Angie in the living room. Sam and his brother both turned to look at the pair behind them. Angie was flipping through her notebook while she had a hand locked around the wrist of the changeling seated to her right. Said creature was quiet, face downward but Sam could see how she would turn her head the slightest to where Angie sat. On Angie's other side was her opened bag and from his spot in the kitchen Sam could see a hint of silver peeking out.

The youngest Winchester raised an questioning eyebrow at his brother who answered with a beckoning wave of his hand at Dana and Sam as he walked back to the laundry room and into the garage. Once the two others entered, Sam closed the door behind him and turned to Dean. "So, what do you think about the changeling?"

"As much as I wanna deal with it now, that might not be a good idea."

Sam nodded at Dean's statement but Dana was confused as she looked between the brothers. "Why would it be a bad idea?"

Sam answered. "We don't know if the mother has some kind of link between her offspring so it'd be best to leave the changeling alone until the last second to lessen the chance of giving the mother and the other changelings a heads up."

Dean nodded. "As much as I don't want to admit it, Angie's got it pretty much under control. She can stay and keep an eye on it while we're out. We'll leave her a torch just in case."

Sam took over. "Do you happen to have a MP3 player and some headphones?"

Dana's eyebrow furrowed at his question. "What? Yes, why?"

Sam looked over at Dean, given a knowing look from his older sibling, before he continued. "There's a chance that when it's time to deal with the changeling it'll try calling out to you for help. It might scream. Even if it's not her, we wouldn't want you to have to hear your daughter's voice cry out like that."

Like Sam figured, and Dean had already known, Dana grew pale at his words. Sam gave her a few moments to settle herself before she steeled her expression and gave him a firm nod, ignoring the lone tear that traced down her cheek. "Got it. I can get that right now."

Sam nodded at her while Dean walked off to the Impala's trunk. Immediately grabbing the keys from his pocket, Sam tossed them at his brother as he herded Dana back inside the house. Dana splintered off to the front of the house and Sam heard her walk up the stairs, in search of the electronics no doubt.

"So what's the plan?" Angie was reading something in her notebook but paused and looked up at Sam when he walked in.

"Yeah, we'll talk to the other families and see if we can find anymore of those smudges of dirt. When it gets dark we'll deal with Dana's issue and then head out to check on those houses under construction."

Angie nodded before going back to her notebook. Sam stilled, watching as her brow started to furrow and a frown started pulling at the edges of her lips. A noise behind him stopped him from asking Angie what was wrong and he turned to see Dean handing him a hanger that held his suit, wrapped in plastic.

"Let's-"

The three humans all tensed when hearing the doorbell chime announcing the presence of someone at the door. Immediately Angie was up, her bag on her shoulder and her hand holding the changeling softly by the back of the neck. Sam was sure that grip could change instantly. He waved a beckoning hand at her, steering her to the garage.

Once Angie and the changeling were hidden he returned to Dean's side, the oldest sibling pressed up against the wall next to the hallway that led to the front room. Sam raised an eyebrow at Dean with his silenced gun at the ready, mouthing the words, "How many?"

Dean silently replied, likewise armed. "One female."

Sam nodded, tilting his head to hear the murmuring coming from the door.

"-atie's fine. Listen-"

"What about you, how are you? When you didn't stay for Ben's party I was a little worried."

Sam could almost hear the irritation in Dana's voice. "I'm fine, we're fine. It's not a good time right now."

"I wasn't sure if you were going to keep the house or sell. We at Cicero Realty want you to kno-"

"I said it's not a good time." Dana paired her growl with a door slam, the sound echoing throughout the house. It was a few minutes more of waiting before Dana walked into the kitchen, exhaustion clear on her face. "All clear, she's gone."

Dean left to the garage while Sam nodded at Dana, in thanks for covering for them. He hoped they could finish this hunt before more people came around. It'd be harder for Dana to cover for them. Especially if they made up too many identities.

"You gonna get dressed?"

Dean was back, Angie and the changeling a few feet behind him. His older brother was holding out his suit, shaking it a bit as a sign for Sam to take it. He shook his head. "No, I'll stay as I am. Why don't you change but maybe don't put on the jacket? Keep it kinda casual."

"What for?"

Sam pointed in the direction of the front of the house. "Because I'm technically suppose to be a doctor that Dana met at her friend's house. If someone happened to overhear that, it'll be hard to explain how I'm suddenly an insurance representative or something. This way it's consistent and less trouble for Dana. Besides we're going to houses that had a family death, it wouldn't seem weird for two trauma counselors to visit them."

Dean paused to consider his words before he shrugged his shoulders and walked off back toward the garage, probably to put Sam's suit back and get changed himself.

Sam checked over the homemade torches Dean had made, knowing they were fine but needed something to do while he waited for Dean. Footfalls had him looking up as Dana came back into the room, an Ipod and headphones in her hands.

"It'll only be a few hours then we'll come back and get you settled. Then we'll head out to take a look at where we think everyone is at."

Dana nodded, her eyes looking over at Angie and the changeling for a split second before she turned away and went back into the front room.

"You ready to go?"

Looking back, Sam nodded as his brother approached, dressed in jeans and a dress shirt. The outfit worked, the jeans displaying casualness while the dress shirt gave an air of professionalism. He himself was dressed in slacks, a button up, and sweater vest. The vest might be a bit much but he did look the part.

Leaving the kitchen Sam walked out to the front room where Dana was sitting on one of the couches, her hands clenched together and her gaze distant.

"Dana?"

The soft tone was enough to rouse Dana but not startle her as she stood up straighter, looking over at Sam with weary eyes. "Are you leaving now?"

"Yeah. Angie will be staying here to keep an eye on things, so you could probably go rest in your room if you wanted."

Dana saw through his words, giving him a tired smile. "I just want my daughter back. I want this to be over. When that happens, then I'll be able to rest."

Sam gave a small reassuring smile. "Listen, we'll open the garage and everything so you don't have to deal with the living room."

Dana nodded her thanks and Sam took his cue to leave.

"Angie. We'll be back soon, just sit tight." Sam told their brunette friend as he entered the living room and kitchen. Said friend had returned to her spot in the living room with the changeling, again a hand clutching the changeling's wrist.

She gave a small smile, eyes going back and forth between Sam and Dean. "See you when you get back."

As one the Winchester brothers nodded and turned to head to the garage.

~~~SPN~~~

It was roughly half an hour from the time the sun had set completely, the residual light fading quickly in the fall evening. In just another half an hour more it'd be dark enough to check out the houses Sam had pointed out earlier, they just needed to get back to Dana's house and deal with the changeling there.

He'd let Sam do most of the talking when they interviewed the families, slipping in a question here and there. Sam had told him of his idea to remain as trauma counselors that way if anyone noticed or questioned their presence at the other houses, they'd have the same story. He'd met the four changelings that had taken over in each family and right away he'd noticed something wasn't right. Sam had told him how the changeling posing as Katie had reacted to meeting Angie, a very instinctual response that he wasn't sure was due to visual or proximity.

Did the changeling know Angie was a threat just by looking at her or had it sensed or even scented something about Angie, the same way some animals could smell when a predator was close by? Azazel had been blocked from sensing Sam because of his brother being near her all the previous day, he'd just hoped the changelings worked off visual. Last thing he'd wanted was the changelings lashing out because they sensed that they had been around a "predator" all day.

But by the end of the first meeting Dean was confident that it was more visual for this type of monster. They had just left Dana's house not fifteen minutes earlier so they were freshly scented or masked in Angie's predator aura if you will so if the changelings were to react to them the first house would have the strongest reaction. Upon entering the home the male changeling had, yes, watched them creepily but it hadn't reacted with the degree of fear that the changeling pretending to be Katie had displayed.

This pattern repeated as they traveled house to house. Each changeling had stuck close to the mothers, watching the two hunters from behind shoulders, silent with their eyes blank and hardly blinking. Almost like they were trying to solve a math problem that made been carved into the back of their heads. Dean's hunter senses were screaming at the wrongness of it all.

Now they were done, heading back to Dana's house to get ready to check out the houses that Sam saw. Pulling into Dana's drive way, Dean parked as Sam got out to punch in the code to open the garage door. Having given Angie one of their burner phones, Dean had sent her a text saying they were on their way, she'd sent back an affirmative and the code.

Exiting the Impala, Dean nodded at Sam who had already closed the garage doors, handing him his duffle bag while reaching for his own. It was time to get out of this dress shirt and into real clothes.

Less than ten minutes had Dean and Sam walking back into the main part of the house, redressed and suited with a few essentials for their next task. Walking into the kitchen they spotted their female friend and the changeling still stationed on the couch.

She closed her notebook, "How'd it go?"

"A positive in each house. We're gonna finish here then head out. Where's Dana?" Dean asked, picking up the torches he'd made. He wanted to give them another look over to make sure they would work.

"Upstairs."

Sam walked away and seconds later Dean heard the soft footfalls of his brother maneuvering the stairs. One after another he checked the torches, deeming them okay and setting one aside for Angie to have when they left.

"You need me to help?"

He looked up at Angie, who tilted her head slightly toward the changeling sitting still next to her. He was sure this hunt would be easier if Angie did help but he was still all too aware that the Fate sisters were keeping an eye on her. It'd be best to keep her away from getting directly involved.

"No, we should be good. But you could probably help Dana out. Stick close by." Dean offered, knowing it wasn't much.

Angie nodded at his words, packing her notebook away just as Sam's footfalls thumped against carpet. A few seconds later he walked into the kitchen, glancing at the changeling before speaking. "Dana's listening to some music. She said her basement is pretty empty at the moment."

Dean nodded, pulling out a roll of silver duct tape from an inner pocket. "Let's do this."

As one the brothers turned to the fake Katie, who tried to pull away from Angie and open her mouth to say something. Dean was sure it would have been a variation of Mom except Angie lifted her hand up and added a wrist flick, causing the changeling's jaws to snap shut and her body to freeze.

Angie stepped away as Dean and Sam took over, Sam pulling out a length of rope to bound the arms and legs together in a hogtie while Dean ripped off a length of tape that he pressed across the changeling's mouth. In seconds the changeling was trussed up, being lifted onto Sam's shoulders. Dean nodded at Angie, following Sam through the laundry room, not before snatching a torch from the kitchen table on his way by.

Roughly fifteen minutes later Dean placed his homemade device back on the table, Sam right behind him. Lighting up the changeling had been harder than they thought, considering it still looked like Katie, but it had to be done. Dean glanced at Sam, his worry about the absence of their brunette friend making him frown. He made his way into the front room, still not seeing Angie. He pushed back the panic that was building, letting out a tentative, "Angie?"

"Up here."

Following her voice the elder Winchester made his way up the stairs, spotting the brunette psychic leaning next to a doorway on the far right of the second floor landing, green medic bag swaying slightly as she turned in his direction. Easing forward Dean glanced around Angie into the room spying Dana lying on her bed, knees tucked against her chest and head phones placed in her ears.

"You two finish up?"

Looking down at Angie, Dean fought back the heat that threatened to over take his face and stepped back into the hall. "Yeah, we're gonna head on out. You can tell Dana we're done downstairs. You good?"

Angie nodded, cocking her hip slightly at him, the outline of her gun showing. She also dug into her opened bag, pulling back to show her hand gripping the mysterious silver weapon she seemed to always have on her.

Dean nodded, satisfied she was okay to leave alone. He glanced at Dana's room before turning back to Angie. "There's an extra torch downstairs. We'll call you when its done."

The petite woman nodded and he made his way back downstairs, meeting up with Sam in the kitchen.

"How's Dana?" Sam asked, tucking the torches into one of the duffle bags.

"She'll be okay once we get Katie back to her."

Sam paused at his words, nodding to himself. "And Angie?"

"Strapped and ready. She knows about the torch." The implications were clear. Taking a moment to check his weapons Dean gave a nod to Sam who nodded back.

As one they left the kitchen, Sam taking a moment to open the garage door as Dean started the Impala. A few seconds later he waited as Sam ducked under the closing metal door and got into the black car.

After ten minutes of Sam directing him Dean turned the car off, a couple houses away from where the kids were suppose to be stashed. Getting out of the car, Dean did a cursory glance around the neighborhood, counting three house for sale, two sold, and two more that were under contract, at least according to the signs in the lawn. Another quick glance showed him the absence of red soil on those properties.

Turning back he sent a nod to Sam and they marched forward, silent except for the slight ruffle from their clothes. The closer to the house Dean got, the more he doubted. The houses still needed work, which meant workers would have to being coming and going. It was a bad location to set up an underground burrow. Too much risk for exposure.

"Sam." Dean warned.

His younger brother was looking at the houses as well, eyebrow furrowed. "Yeah, I see it. Let's take a quick look anyway."

If someone were watching them, they'd think they were two cops. Their Dad had made sure that they knew the most efficient way to clear a house. Dean and his brother moved as one unit, him high and Sam low as they went room by room. The basements for each house were last but both times came up empty. The kids weren't here.

"I don't understand. They have to be around here somewhere. It's the only place I've seen that has this dirt." Sam told him as they walked out of the second home, his shoulders tense with frustration.

Dean agreed, they were nearby. The changelings had to pass through to get to the families' home. Unfortunately the sod wasn't done on the two lots so the red dirt covered all directions. They would need to pick up on any subtle tracks left behind.

"They are, Sam. Those changelings pass through here on their way out to the other families." Like Dean knew, his brother latched onto his words.

Already Sam had his flashlight out and on, nearly jumping off the stairs as he raced to the edge of the property. "Which means there's a trail."

With those words, Dean followed his brother to the sidewalk, fence on Sam's right while he took the spot on his left. "Ready?"

The slight nod from his brother was enough and as one they took a step forward, flashlights illuminating the dirt under them. It was at least thirty seconds before Sam asked if he was done. Dean gave a hum of confirmation and again they took another synchronized step, pausing to search the patterns in the dirt.

This continued for roughly ten more minutes, back and forth the brothers went, reaching one end of the property before executing a tight circle and searching a new section as they made their way back toward the sidewalk. They were entering the second lot along the back fence when Sam lashed out an arm, causing Dean to freeze in place.

"Dean."

Sam's flashlight highlighted the ridges and valleys of dirt created from the multiple shoe impressions that decorated the area along the back fence. Dean studied two separate pairs of tracks, one heading forward from the fence, the area they had been about to search and the other pair heading away from them, further long the fence line. All four different shoe patterns were child sized.

"They go in pairs. One grabs the kid and comes back while the other stays." Sam murmured, studying the back fence. "Look Dean."

Dean followed his brother's line of sight, catching the scuff marks and the smears of dirt that covered the wood. Stretching to his full height Dean surveyed the neighboring backyard and house of their suspected mother changeling. The yard was pristine, the outdoor furniture looking like it come out of a magazine. Dean hated it. The house itself was dark except for the glow in the front of the house, possibly from the porch light. The mother didn't seem to be home but he wasn't sure how long that would be.

Dean looked over at his brother, who had also been casing the area, and was rewarded with a nod. Backing up a few steps Dean secured the duffle to his back, gave a sharp nod to Sam, and on a silent cue both brothers lunged upward, scaling the fence in a matter of seconds. Upon landing, Dean had his gun out, attaching the silencer in seconds, checking shadows and corners for movement. Next to him Sam was doing the same, checking his portion of the yard before slapping a hand on Dean's shoulder.

The elder Winchester nodded, tilting his head in the direction of a small building in the far corner of the yard. Sam gave another pat in understanding and Dean heard him follow as he made his way to the structure. Sam's shadow let Dean know that his brother was keeping his gun trained on the house while Dean worked on the shed, unlocking and sliding the door aside. It wasn't terribly small, maybe the same size as a full bathroom but it could definitely hold at least eight kids no problem.

With Sam watching his back, Dean brought the duffle bag forward and pulled out one of the torches he'd made. He really didn't like this idea but he wanted these kids to stand a chance. Giving the trigger an experimental squeeze and getting a steady flame, he deemed it functional and tucked it against the shed wall, then proceeded to slid the metal door closed, leaving a few inches of gap to make it easier to open.

As one, they moved forward, making no sounds as they crossed the backyard and pressed themselves against the exterior corner wall of the house. They waited a few seconds but all was quiet. A nudge from Sam on his right had his attention, his little brother pointing out the egress window on his side of the house. Dean gave a nod and followed after his brother, gun trained on the windows. Once Sam stopped, Dean did another cursory glance of the house with his gun, taking a quick moment to check behind him before turning back around and giving Sam a pat.

With that, Sam took off the silencer and stowed his weapon, easing his lower half into the large window well while Dean kept his gun up and listening for movement. It took a few seconds but Sam came back up, giving Dean a grim nod. Immediately Dean nodded back, his gun once again trained on the house as Sam entered the small space, forgoing the little ladder. He heard the flick of a knife opening and he knew Sam was unlocking the window.

A shushing sound from the younger Winchester had Dean's attention, peering over the metal rim and seeing his brother's large frame tucked into the tight area. Sam was looking into the basement, finger pressed against his lips in the universal sign of silence. Some or even all of the kids must have noticed him. Dean held still, listening but it was quiet above ground.

Taking a glance down showed Sam sliding one pane of glass to the side, arming himself once again before disappearing through the window. Dean waited a few more seconds, not moving until he heard the soft whistle. Without looking away from the house or his surroundings Dean grabbed the duffle bag with one hand, lowering it into the small space, feeling Sam grab it. Another quick glance around showed all was quiet so Dean put away his weapon, maneuvered into the well and slipped through the opened window.

Once his feet touched the floor Dean had his gun out, Sam standing next to him in the same pose. A silent cue was given and they both moved forward, one left and one right as they searched the shadows of the basement.

"Clear."

"Clear." Dean reported, echoing Sam's status.

Now that the basement was cleared and monster free, he turned his attention to the seven cages placed in the middle of the basement. Little fingers were gripping the bars as seven kids watched him and his brother make their way toward them. Two children per cage but seven in total. They were aware of only five kids, the other two changelings hadn't had to kill anyone. Dean recognized the real kids whose families he'd visited during the day, Sam talking in low tones to the real Katie, but it was the lone red-haired woman in the larger pen that held his attention.

"Help, please." She cried, trembling slightly, her body thin and clothes dirty.

"Don't worry, we'll get you all out." Dean reassured, noting the green blazer with the words 'Cicero Realty' embroidered on the left chest. Of course, a real estate agent would know how many kids were in each family and would know the layout of each home. He had to give it to this mother changeling, she picked the right person to imitate. Sam appeared next to him, red bolt cutters in hand. While Sam dealt with the padlock Dean gave his instructions to the woman.

"We're gonna get everyone out of these cages but then we gotta get these kids topside. There's a utility shed outside in the corner of the backyard. Once you and the kids are outside I want you to go hide in there until we come get you. There'll be a torch near the door. If any of these things try to come toward the shed I want you to pull the trigger. Make sure they catch on fire. That's how you kill them. You understand?"

By the end of his instructions Sam had gotten her out and she was standing before Dean, nodding her head at his words while Sam had moved onto the kids' cages, snapping off locks quickly.

Confidant she had kept up with him, Dean dragged a chair over to the wall underneath the window to help the kids climb up through the window. He went first, making it to the surface, gun out and doing a quick survey of the backyard before whispering down to Sam.

One by one the terrified kids were helped into the well, then using the small ladder to reach Dean. He had the kids line up against the house to wait for the real estate woman to join them. He was pulling up the fifth child, a small dark-haired boy, when he heard cries from below and Sam commanding the woman and children to run followed by a crashing sound.

Dean muttered a curse under his breath, reaching down and pulling out the last two children who had scrambled out the basement window. The scarlet-haired woman was right behind them and Dean quickly pointed out the small outbuilding.

"Hide, stay quiet, and if you need to, squeeze the trigger." Trying to ignore the panic building from the sounds of a fight going on in the basement, he handed her his phone. "If we don't come get you in thirty minutes, call Angie. Tell her where you are. She'll come get you."

At her nod he sent the group off, watching her corral the children around herself as they headed to their hiding spot. Once they were safely tucked away, Dean's face hardened and he quickly slipped back down the window well. He had a brother to help and a monster to slay.

~~~SPN~~~

Dana wasn't sure how long she'd been laying down but her awareness was slowly leaking back to her. She didn't want to come back to reality. She was trying to zone out, let her mind become dull so she wouldn't have to think about what was going on downstairs. Sam had showed up and told her that they were back and that everything was as they suspected. He'd tried, she could see it in the apology in his eye, to delicately ask her about a space they could use. She knew why he was asking and she was glad for the lack of details.

She muttered about her basement being empty and he'd nodded at her words. She wondered if he knew it was also the place that was furthest from her in the house. He probably did, she could see how much the trio picked up subtle hints that she didn't want to voice. They understood the mind set she was in and handled her accordingly. Not very harsh but they didn't coddle her. She may be freaked out but she wanted her child back and she'd do whatever she needed for that to happen. Even trusting three strangers.

The men were the heads of the operation, telling her what had her child and what steps were needed to make sure Katie got home safe. As much as she wanted her daughter back, she did have to think about the other families. They let her be selfish in her want but also told her that they had a responsibility to the other kids. They would make sure everyone got home, not just her Katie.

The third member of the group, the brunette Angie, was quite a mystery to Dana.

The speech she'd given to Dana at Lisa's house had put her off, thinking that there was no way that a shrink from CPS could help her. Lisa, her friend, had blown her off, why would a stranger believe her? If anything it'd be worse. They'd probably want to take her in for a psych evaluation. She'd planned on blowing the pair off, only taking Angie's card to be polite. She had no plan of calling. But then Angie had spoken her promise and Dana had felt her breathing kick up. They knew. She wasn't sure how they knew but they did and that brought a surge of hope.

And then she'd seen the reflection in the car window and she'd nearly broken. Her stomach had revolted, bile rising, and she'd shrunk away, latching onto Sam's arm. It was then that he'd taken her aside, reassuring her that they would get her daughter back and take care of the thing that was impersonating her child. He'd managed to bring her back from what she was sure would have been a complete panic attack.

Angie had volunteered to sit in the back with the creature during the ride to the house and Dana couldn't be more grateful. The hairs on the back of her neck had stood straight during the short drive but at least she wasn't alone with the thing. The times she'd looked in the back, Angie had smiled or nodded at her and Dana copied the gesture. She'd also seen the brunette woman keep her hand in her bag. She never rummaged so Dana figured she was holding something. She was pretty sure it was some type of weapon. The thought scared but also comforted her. If the changeling made a move toward her Angie would strike.

Waiting for evening to arrive had worked on her nerves a bit. Evening meant that her daughter would be given back to her and this nightmare would be over. So when the two men had returned and Sam had shown up in her bedroom, the nerves she had managed to tame in the hours of their absence cropped up again.

She pinched her eyes shut, trying to force her mind to fade away again but it was impossible. With a sigh Dana unfurled herself, keeping in the slight hiss of pain from having been curled up for so long, and stretched her muscles. She paused, her eyes taking in the darkness outside her window. What the Hell was she doing? Right now Sam and Dean were out getting her daughter and the others kids away from that mother monster they were talking about while she what, wallowed? Katie was likely be scared and eager to come home. She needed to be strong for her daughter, help her with the nightmares that would no doubt occur from this event.

Mind made up Dana stood, rubbing at her face, trying to get rid of the wariness that had taken root in the bags under her eyes. She needed to do something. Maybe put some of Katie's things in her room. Even though Katie was growing up, crawling into bed with her mother when she was scared and needed comfort had yet to disappear. Dana would need the reassurance as much as Katie. Maybe make some hot chocolate? It'd make Katie happy and comfort her while also helping her to sleep.

With a plan in mind, Dana went to leave her room but flinched in surprise while pausing in the middle of her doorway.

Angie was leaning against the wall a few feet away from her door, looking like she was relaxing. The only thing that belied this was the firm set of her lips, her keen eyes, and, what had actually caused the most shock for Dana, the nearly two foot gleaming silver weapon that was being twirled around in her hand.

Once Angie noticed her the brunette straightened up, tucking the large dagger against her side and out of sight. "Sorry about that. Sam and Dean left about fifteen minutes ago." Dana nodded her understanding. Angie looked her over and the young mother could almost imagine what she looked like. "Need some help with something?"

Dana shook her head. "Just grabbing some things of Katie's."

The other woman gave her a nod. "I'm gonna hang out on the stairs for a bit. Let me know if you wanna go downstairs so I can get out of the way."

With that Angie picked up the green bag at her feet, turned, and perched herself a few steps away from the top of the landing; the whole time keeping a grip on her weapon. Dana knew Angie was trying to keep watch over her without being overbearing and she appreciated the young woman not bringing up her role.

Continuing onward Dana grabbed clothes from Katie's room, pausing on her way out to grab the large stuffed red panda that Katie adored, and brought her armload back to her room. Putting the clothes away and positioning the stuffed animal in the middle of the bed, Dana made her way toward the stairs, knowing she needed to leave the sanctuary of the second floor and face her reality.

A floorboard creaked and Angie's head snapped up to look at her, the silver weapon raising slightly. The brunette gave a soft smile. "Heading downstairs?"

Dana said nothing, her shyness stealing her voice, and just nodded. Angie didn't seemed fazed by her silence, jumping up from her spot and making her way down. Dana followed the brunette, her intent being to find the materials needed for the homemade hot chocolate Katie loved. Angie split away, lowering herself into one of the couches she'd been sitting in all day while Dana veered off into the kitchen. Grabbing a few items Dana had to pause as she went to place them on the kitchen table.

The maps and pens she had retrieved for Sam were still spread out on the surface where they had been looked over all afternoon. Gently placing her things down, Dana studied the one map Sam had written on. Black stars gave Dana the locations of each house that had some type of accident, an extra star on her own home even though it was at her ex-husband's that the accident had occurred at. Five families in total. Five mothers who'd lost a significant other and were coddling the murderer while their real children were hidden somewhere, probably scared and dying. And these were just the ones that had accidents. There could be more. The whole community could be infected. More sets of parents, single parents too, all loving a monster while their children cried out for them.

Dana's breath caught in her throat and her hands tightened on the map. Tracing the route with her finger Dana was startled to see that Lisa's place was close by and in the path of these monsters. And she had no idea. Lisa wasn't involved with anyone so she was in fact a perfect target. As upset as Dana was about being blown off by her friend she didn't want Lisa and Ben to get hurt.

Knowing she might be shot down by Angie for her idea she wondered if she could get her keys and maybe sneak off. Dana wasn't sure but she must have given something away when she heard the jingle of car keys.

Looking up, Angie was no longer on the couch but standing at the other end of the table, Dana's car keys clutched in her hand. She raised an eyebrow at Dana.

"Please Angie. I have a friend, she's by herself. It's just her and her son. I just wanna check on them. Please."

Angie stared at her for a second, before speaking. "I told Sam and Dean I'd keep on eye on you. If you just happened to want to go somewhere like the store, I would just tag along." At this she tossed the keys at Dana, who caught them mid flight. She gave a slight smile. "I call shotgun."

Dana gave a grateful nod before heading to the front door. She wasn't sure what she'd tell Lisa, maybe just stay at her house until Sam and Dean had killed the monster and its babies. She wasn't sure how she'd explain Angie though. As a friend? Probably not, Dana wasn't quite comfortably around her and she was sure it would show. She didn't want Lisa to think she was even more crazy.

"Do you have any relatives nearby?"

Dana jumped slightly at the sudden appearance of Angie next to her, the brunette woman adjusting her bag and carrying the homemade torch. Probably as a precaution. Dana's brain caught up to her question and she answered. "I have a brother. He lives a couple hours across the city."

Angie nodded. "Good, because after an intensive two hour session with myself and Dr. Davis, we decided that the two of you should stay with your brother for awhile, that way both of you will have support at this difficult time. Your brother just came and picked up Katie, you'll be following but first we're on our way to talk to your friend as you feel guilty about your outburst earlier in the day and wish to apologize. Isn't that right?"

Dana nodded, eyes wide at the story Angie wove. At least she now had a reason why Angie was with her. Lisa did say something about getting help. She definitely got it. Dana locked the front door behind them, Angie right behind her as they raced down the driveway to the car sitting on the street.

"Don't drive too fast. We don't want to attract attention to ourselves."

Dana nodded at Angie's words, pulling away from the curb and obeying the speed limit; even though everything in her wanted to press down on the gas.

It only took a few minutes to get to Lisa's but for Dana and her frayed nerves it took far too long. Easing to a stop, Dana shut off the car, taking in the low lights coming from the living room. Lisa was still up. Oh, God how was she gonna do this?

"It'll be fine." Angie was taking out notebooks and what looked like bits and pieces you'd find in a first aid kit. She then started to stuff the small gas cylinder in her bag. Dana caught the flash of something shiny. "Just remain calm. We just have to wait until Dean or Sam call. You can do this."

Dana gripped the steering wheel, nodding her head at Angie's voice. Just relax. Just wait until Sam or Dean call. The young mother got out of the car and started easing toward Lisa's front door, hearing Angie's steps right behind her. You can do this. You can do this.

Dana wasn't sure when it happened but she heard a chime and her hand was pulling away from the doorbell. You can do this.

The porch light flicked on and suddenly Lisa was standing in the open doorway, her smile a bit unsure. Dana could see the questions in her eyes as her friend took in the other brunette at her side.

"Hey Lisa." The words were soft but Dana was proud of the lack of shakiness. Her words were a trigger for Angie because she lit up with a friendly smile and stuck her hand out for Lisa.

"Hello Ms. Braeden. I'm Dr. Angela Martinez. I'm a trauma counselor from Child Services. The hospital called myself and a few of my associates due to the accidents in the community. May we come in and speak with you?"

Lisa looked over at Dana and she was able to nod at her unspoken question. Even though there was confusion on her face, Lisa stepped aside to let the duo in the house.

Dana took a glance around the lower level of the house, noting the multiple black bags of trash and colorful streamers that had been hanging outside when she'd visited earlier in the day. The kitchen island held the remnants of a sheet cake, a small stack of birthday plates and numerous candles off to the side of the pastry. She also noted the absence of Ben.

"Where's Katie?"

Dana spun around to face Lisa, remembering to smile and not grimace at the mention of the changeling that had pretended to be her daughter. "Ryan picked her up about half an hour ago. We're gonna spend some time at his place. To deal with everything."

Already Dana could see the worry building in Lisa but Angie ploughed ahead. "Not too worry Ms. Braedon. We talked at length this afternoon so even though they'll be a couple hours away, they'll both be talking to me during their time away, whether at my office or I head over there to see them."

Lisa seemed to deflate, no doubt happy that Dana was talking to a "professional," and she smiled at Dana.

"There was a reason we came over here, wasn't there Dana?"

At Angie's words, the first thing that popped in Dana's head was fear for Lisa and Ben but she pushed it away, focusing on the story Angie had given her. "Yeah. Um, Lisa…" Dana paused, trying to come up with the words to apologize but instead blurted out, "Can we sit down?"

Lisa, still happy Dana was getting "help," gestured to the couches in the living room. "Yeah, sure. I cleaned up dinner but there's still some of Ben's cake left if either of you are interested?"

Dana shook her head but Angie's face held a wide smile. "My weakness Ms. Braeden. I'd love a piece of cake. Thank you."

"Call me Lisa, Doctor." Lisa smiled at the other brunette before walking away into the kitchen.

With Lisa gone Dana let out a deep sigh, her knees starting to bounce with her nerves. She jolted slightly when Angie nudged her with her foot. "Relax. They'll call."

Dana took another breath, repeating Angie's words in her head as Lisa came back, a square slice of chocolate cake with white frosting accompanied by a fork on a blue paper plate.

"Here you go Doctor."

Angie smiled, reaching for the cake and immediately taking a bite. Dana felt a flash of guilt. She hadn't given the trio anything to eat the whole time they'd been in her house. As soon as they came back she'd fix that.

"I couldn't help notice the leftover balloons, streamers, and cake. How old did your son turn?"

Lisa smiled at the question. "Eight. Him and Katie have been friends for years." The last statement Lisa turned to look at Dana who smiled back, however small.

Swallowing another bite of cake Angie glanced over at Dana. "I know. Dana was talking to me about Katie and him."

The red-haired woman knew a cue when she saw one and took a deep breath. "Yeah, I actually wanted to talk to you before I left. About this afternoon."

Lisa shook her head. "I shouldn't have pushed. I mean, I can't pretend to know what you're feeling. So I shouldn't have taken your feelings so lightly. I'm just worried about you and Katie."

I wasn't wrong! That was not my daughter. Dana kept the words from lashing out, instead she nodded. "It's been stressful. I'm worried about his family, Katie, myself. It's hard to keep everything together."

Lisa nodded, reaching over to place a hand on Dana's shaking knee. "It's okay. I'm just happy you-"

Angie suddenly stood up, her empty plate and fork falling to the floor. Her head was tilted the slightest, her eyes narrowed but unfocused.

"Angie?" Dana questioned, her panic building. Something must have happened. Did her phone vibrate?

Her movements quick, Angie tore open her bag and pulled out the makeshift torch, ignoring Dana's panic and Lisa's shout of, "What the Hell!"

Dana could feel her breathing pick up with realization. The changelings. The monsters who stole Katie. They were here.

"Hey! Hey!"

Dana snapped out of her trance, hearing Lisa's angry shout echo in the room. Angie was rushing up the staircase, skipping every other step while Lisa ran after her. Dana's maternal instincts flared furiously. They were here for Ben. Adrenaline pumping, Dana was right behind Lisa, all three women halting to a stop in the doorway of Ben's blue painted room.

Ben stood at the foot of the bed, dressed for sleep, his eyes staring at the three women. Nothing too concerning except for the grotesque, discolored skin of the creature standing on the far side of the bed next to the open window. The fact that there was a second Ben thrashing about in the monster's arms made the encounter unbelievable.

"Oh my God…" Lisa gasped next to Dana. The red haired woman was feeling anger more than disbelief. These things thought they could steal Ben, that they could take her daughter. She hoped Sam and Dean killed every last one of them.

Dana and Lisa both jolted, each emitting a noise of shock when Angie waved her unarmed hand, making a motion of whipping something to the side. The fake Ben copied the movement, its body slamming into the left wall with a harsh, thundering smack.

The changeling holding the real Ben flinched at the attack, turning its hollow eyes on Angie. Its circular mouth opened, flaring the rows of teeth, and hissing at the brunette before dropping its captive and disappearing out the window.

Now that his mouth wasn't being muffled, Ben gave a scared "Mom!" that had Lisa leaping over his bed and gathering him in her arms.

Dana remained at the door as Angie took a threatening step toward the fake Ben, focused on the changeling that had shed its human appearance and was growling, its body fidgeting against invisible bonds.

"Dana." With that one stern word from Angie Dana was moving, pulling at Lisa's arm to move the family out the door, intent on getting them downstairs.

"What the Hell Dana?"

Dana's eyes were sharp, her mind buzzing on where to find Lisa's kitchen lighter and an aerosol while she briskly answered her friend. "That was a changeling. They steal kids and feed on the adults. They stole Katie."

Taking a sharp turn into the kitchen, Dana froze, pushing Lisa and Ben back the way they came. The second changeling was hissing at them from the middle of the kitchen, the patio doors wide open.

At once Dana heard the other two scamper back to the living room and she quickly followed, walking backward in an effort to keep the monster in her line of sight as it slowly walked forward.

She'd just passed the couch when she caught a flash of color. Without looking away from the incoming changeling Dana reached for Angie's green bag, digging her hand into the tote. Her fingers touched cool metal and she quickly brought out the large, sharp weapon. Not wasting a second Dana surged forward, letting her anger guide her arm as she slashed the deadly tool, tearing across the chest of the creature.

She felt a small spark of satisfaction at the howl of pain but the sound of a high-pitched inhuman screeching from the second floor distracted her, nearly missing the injured monster leaping at her. The trio of humans shouted in surprise, Dana lashing out blindly.

She hit something solid and Dana opened her eyes to see the long dagger had pierced straight through the shoulder of the changeling. Mouth open in shock she held on tight as the monster thrashed in pain for a second before it flared its teeth in anger. Dana shoved it away and pulled the weapon free, holding it out in front of her like a sword.

The changeling gave a deep growl, taking a threatening step forward before it stopped, suddenly enveloped in flames. Its high pitched yowl faded off as the column of fire extinguished, leaving nothing in its wake.

Dana's mouth was wide open, her grip tight on the hilt of her weapon, her heart easing back into place after it had leapt into her throat. Harsh thumping sounds had her swinging the dagger to the new threat, her breath leaving in a gush of relief and dropping the sword as Angie made her way down the steps, torch in hand.

"You guys good?" Angie asked, looking over the trio. Lisa and Ben were clinging together, eyes wide as they looked from Dana to Angie. There would be some explaining after this.

Dana nodded before gesturing to the empty space in front of her. "There was another changeling."

Angie made it down the stairs, Dana offering her weapon to its original owner. "Yeah, I heard it. You get it?"

Dana gave a shaky nod, her adrenaline fading. "Yeah, got it across the chest and stabbed it into the shoulder. It burst into flames after that."

Angie nodded. "That means they got the mother."

Dana took a step toward Angie. "Really? That means Katie's okay, right?"

Before Angie could answer the sound of a guitar riff rang through the air. With anticipation Dana watched the brunette pull the cell phone from her pocket, showing her the screen. Sam.

Flipping it open, Angie pressed it to her ear. "Hey, Sam. Did you get it?"

Dana's lips curled into a smile, feeling tears building up in her eyes as Angie nodded at her. Her daughter was okay and on her way home. She then noticed the cringe Angie made, her eyes meeting Dana's own.

"Yeah, about that…"

After those words Angie explained to Sam that they weren't at the house anymore and that, technically, she didn't do anything wrong. She really had kept an eye on her, she never said she'd keep Dana at the house against her will. Sam hadn't been happy and Dean even less so, which made Dana suspicious.

So now they were waiting for the two men to return from delivering the other wayward children back to their families. Angie said it might take awhile due to the explanation they would have to give the parents about why their "children" suddenly exploded into flames.

Roughly a little after an hour the loud rumbling of an engine had Dana up and bolting for the door, running out the house while the sleek black car thundered up the drive way.

"Mommy!"

Dana couldn't help the cry of relief as her daughter, clothes dirty and hair tangled, threw herself out the car and into her opened arms. Immediately she lifted Katie, her daughter's legs wrapping themselves around her waist in a vice-like grip. The tears that Dana been holding back poured freely as she planted small kisses over Katie's hair and face.

The creaking of metal doors had Dana looking up, seeing the two men getting out of their car, slight bruises on their faces and bloody knuckles. She sent them a smile, her lips trembling from the effort of not sobbing out loud. Both nodded at her, Dean moving past her where she knew Angie had followed her.

Rocking Katie back and forth, Dana was fine hugging her daughter for the next few days but she also heard the amount of worry in Dean's voice as he asked Angie questions about what happened after they had left. Yeah, her suspicions seemed right.

"Dean?"

Dana turned, looking at Lisa in surprise as she stood in the opened doorway of her home, eyes wide and staring at Dean in shock and recognition.

For his part Dean looked at her the same way. He took a moment to check over the house before turning his eyes back to Lisa. When Ben popped his head around her, Dana could see the brunette man's eyes narrow slightly before they cleared. "Lisa."

Dana glanced around at the other two adults. Angie was silent, her eyes neutral while Sam was looking back and forth between his brother and Lisa but also shooting small glances at Angie. It all became quite clear at this point. Dana couldn't believe that one of the men who'd saved her daughter, who might be in a relationship with Angie, was also the same Dean that Lisa had had a weekend with eight years ago.

~~~SPN~~~

There weren't a lot of creatures that made Dean uneasy, wendigos and demons being the main ones. This, what had happened and what was going to happen, made him uneasy in a slightly different way. What he'd been hoping didn't happen had happened. It shouldn't surprise him, he was a Winchester after all. That was just their luck.

Because of course the woman who was helping them to save her daughter just happened to be friends with one of his past flings. And not just any fling. There were really only two women who, in the past, had affected Dean on a deeper level. Cassie was one of them. Lisa was the other.

Which brought Dean to this moment. It was eight in the morning and they were leaving the parking lot of the new hotel they'd chosen to spend the night at, their duffle bags packed for their trip to the salt and burn in Minnesota. Before heading out though, they were swinging by Dana's place to say bye. Where Lisa would also be. With Ben. Her son. Her eight year old son.

Dean took a quick glance at Angie in the rear view mirror.

Dean wasn't stupid. He could very well be Ben's father. Not that that was a bad thing. There were times, especially with hunts involving children and their parents were Dean would wonder. If the hunt was successful and he brought home the child or parent, the family would hold each other and cry. Even stopping to eat at dinners where a small family would no doubt be stationed in a booth. Those were the times that Dean would pause and envision.

The Impala's hood up while he showed his son the different parts of an engine.

Standing in a pool, helping his small floatie-clad daughter learn to swim.

Gently rocking his newborn baby, bright eyes staring up at him while they suckled from the bottle he held.

Dean gave himself a mental shake as he turned down Dana's street. Thoughts like that were nice but dangerous. Considering his job, the world they lived in, it was too much to hope. Turning the car off, the trio exited the Impala as the door to Dana's house burst open.

"Angie!" The dark-haired Ben raced down the pathway, bee-lining for the petite woman walking next to Dean. His smile was wide and his eyes only saw her. Dean held back a smirk. Someone had a crush.

"Ben don't be rude." Lisa chided as she stepped onto the porch, Dana and Katie right behind her.

Angie shook her head. "It's fine." She ruffled the boy's hair. "Hi Ben."

Dean shared a smile with Sam, amused at the sight of Ben's red-tipped ears. The boy took her hand, pulling her to the house.

"Come meet Katie. I told her all about you."

Dean and Sam followed as Angie was lead into the house, Ben and Katie next to her. Lisa mouthed an apology to Angie who shook her head and gave her a good natured smile as they passed each other.

"If you have time, we set up breakfast for you three. As a thank you." Dana gestured in the direction of the kitchen.

"You didn't have to go through the trouble but thank you. We'd love to have breakfast." Sam commented to the two women.

Dean nodded, eyes automatically searching for Angie as he thought about how much she would need to eat for her trip back home. She'd made that announcement before they'd left the hotel, letting them know she's leave once it was time to get on the road, and he knew they'd need to stop somewhere to get her food so she wouldn't get sick when she got back.

Dean caught Lisa's stare and he gave her a small smile which she returned.

"Morning, Dean."

"Morning." Dean smacked a hand on his brother's shoulder. "This is my brother Sam by the way. You didn't get a chance to met last night."

"Hi, Lisa. Nice to meet you." Sam smiled, offering his hand to the smaller woman.

Before anyone else spoke, Angie, Katie and Ben walked back into the front room, the two kids each grasping one of Angie's hands.

"Mom can we eat now?" asked Katie, her voice soft.

"Sorry we were taking so long. Of course honey." Dana marched forward, mother mode taking over as she corralled the children and an amused Angie to the kitchen table.

Lisa turned back to Dean and Sam, her arm gesturing them forward. "Let's eat."

Roughly two hours later and they were getting ready to leave. Dean stood on the porch watching Sam talk to Dana at the passenger door of the Impala, handing her a piece of paper that no doubt held both their numbers, Bobby's, but also Ellen and Jo's in case something weird happened in the neighborhood. Angie was in the front yard, running back and forth with Katie in her arms as the two playfully ran away from Ben, the trios laughs chorusing together.

Dean watched the brunette as she threw her head back laughing before she placed Katie back on her feet and chased after the two kids, snarling playfully. Ben and Katie turned sharply, running to Sam for safety, using his body as a barrier while Angie stepped back and forth trying to grab them. At that point Sam joined in, hoisting Ben over his shoulder then grabbing Katie around the waist and running back across the front lawn away from Angie who gave chase. Without meaning to Dean imagined Angie in his mind's eye, standing in a large back yard with a small dark haired girl running into her opened arms, Sam right behind the girl as he chased her.

"Mommy, Uncle Sammy's gonna get me!"

"Dean?"

The oldest Winchester mentally scolded himself, banishing his thoughts. Those had been the most dangerous he'd ever conjured. Maintaining a look of ease, Dean turned to Lisa as she come up on his right. As a mother her eyes were on Ben, his little hand in Angie and Katie's as the three of them ran away from Sam.

"After the shock wore off last night all Ben could talk about was Angie. When Katie got here, he told her all about the "pretty lady" from last night. I thought my son's first crush would be another eight year old not an older woman."

Dean watched Ben grab Katie's hand as they shrieked in joy, running around their mothers' cars to escape Sam and Angie. He nodded at the boy. "He's a good kid."

"And she's a good woman." Dean glanced over at Lisa to see her raising an eyebrow at him. "I saw how worried you were about her last night. I admit she scared me a bit when she brought out the flame thrower and used some kind of psychic stuff to take care of the monster but she's a good woman. That and my son really likes her."

Dean nibbled on his lip for a second. "Listen Lisa, about Ben…"

"You're wondering if you're his father?"

Dean shrugged a shoulder. "Can't blame me for asking. It was eight years ago."

"Yeah. I thought it was you too. There'd been a guy I was seeing off and on during the year, right before I met you. David. He turned out to be Ben's dad. We tried to make it work, did for three years but we just couldn't. We still keep in contact, I won't keep Ben from him but there's nothing between us. He'll been here later today to see Ben." At the end of her speech she reached into her back pocket, pulling out a folded piece of paper and handing it to Dean.

"What's this?" The older Winchester asked as he unfolded it. The words 'DNA Diagnostics Center' on the top corner let him know what this was without reading the results. But he did anyway. David Hale was the father of Benjamin Isaac Braeden. "Why would you show me this?"

Lisa was nodding at Angie. "So you can concentrate on other things. I have my son to think about and you have other things on your mind."

"Dean, ready to go?"

Dean looked over seeing that kids had finally settled down, standing around Dana while Angie was giving them hugs goodbye and Sam had his passenger door open, looking in his direction.

The older Winchester nodded before turning to Lisa, giving her a smile. "Call us if you ever need help."

Pulling away from the curb the trio waved one last time at the two mothers and their children, the engine getting louder as Dean applied more gas, turning off Dana's street and out of the community.

It was a few minutes later that Angie popped her head between Dean and his brother, small smile on her face. "Time for me to get going too."

Dean glanced at the brunette over his shoulder. "You gonna be okay? You didn't eat enough at Dana's."

Angie shrugged. "I'll be fine. I went shopping the other day so my fridge is packed with food. I'll make something when I get back."

"Hey Angie, I've been meaning to ask but does your family know about your abilities?" Sam was curious, Dean knew, considering all he'd gone through with his own psychic gifts.

"No. Granted they've grown in the past year but the only one who even remotely has a clue is my brother Donny. I think it's only because he's my twin."

Dean nodded his agreement. "Makes sense, you two shared the womb. You might just have taken the majority of abilities. Can he do anything you can?"

"If he can, he's not telling me. But he did mention dreaming about what I've been up to when I visit you two. He saw Gordon and me fighting. He knew I was hurt."

Dean filed away that information. "And the rest of the family has no idea? About your abilities or you helping us?"

"Nope." Angie placed emphasis on the third letter, popping the consonant. "Although Donny is getting suspicious about his so called dreams."

Sam gave her a concerned look. "So they have no idea what you've been doing? Being gone for a day or two at a time?"

Angie nodded, replying cheerfully, "Pretty much yeah. Which is why I need to leave, that way no one comes over my apartment wondering why I'm not home."

Dean bounced his eyes from the road to Angie. "You ever return on your own before?"

Angie settled back against the leather seats, her med bag around herself and her duffle bag on her lap. "No but I figure I'll just do what I did yesterday morning. Visualize and then poof! At least in theory." She opened her bag, rummaged for a second then handed Sam a couple folded papers. "Take a look at that but after I leave. I've been gone long enough."

Sam stayed looking back while Dean tried to watch the road but also watch as Angie gripped her bags. The petite brunette stared at Sam then turned her eyes to Dean's in the rear view mirror. She gave a smile. "Stay safe you two." She closed her eyes, let out a deep breath and was suddenly gone.

Dean gave a slight jerk at the abruptness of her departure, sharing a look with his brother before returning his eyes to the road. The sound of the paper caught his attention. A quick glance to his right showed Sam reading the papers that Angie had handed him. His eyes went back to the road. "What is it?"

His question went unanswered and Dean looked over at his brother again. The younger hunter's eyes were wide and roved furiously over what looked like hand written words. "Sam. Talk to me, what'd she write?"

His little brother finally looked up, his mouth curled into a smile and eyes bright with excitement. "It's crazy Dean. Angie wrote down all these little tips. Things I had no idea about. Carving devil's traps into handcuffs. There's ingredients for hex bags that can hide us from demons. Oh and apparently if you say an exorcism in reverse it forces the demon back into the body. It's incredible. And listen to this part, 'if you pass something transparent, like a pair of glasses, through holy fire, you can see hellhounds with them.'"

Dean's eyebrows rose sharply. They could see hellhounds? "Wait, what's holy fire?"

Sam read a few more sentences, "Looks like when you light holy oil on fire. Angie wrote that it's rare but I'm sure someone has some. We wouldn't need a lot anyway."

Dean nodded. He was sure these were all things Angie had seen them do in the future, so they should work. He hadn't even thought about devil's traps on handcuffs. It'd help with their cover as government agents. He wasn't sold on the hex bags though. Anything to do with witches made him uneasy. But if he himself had used it before, he didn't see the harm. Beside, being hidden from demons was a definite plus. Suddenly Sam's hand clamped down on his forearm.

"Sam?" His brother was on a new page, his grip on the notebook paper giving it creases. Dean growled at his sibling. "Sam what is it?"

Dean's harsh question caused Sam to flinch, his eyes wide as he looked up at Dean, his mouth opening then closing before he turned back to the paper. Finally he spoke. "There's a demon…cure."

Fed up Dean pulled over onto the shoulder of the road, popping the Impala into park. "There's a what?"

Sam's eyes remained on the paper. "'You can cure a demon by injecting it with purified blood, whether it be your own by confession or blood blessed by a priest. The ritual must be performed on consecrated ground or ground that has been consecrated through a ritual and the injections must be given once every hour for eight hours. After the eighth dose, say the Latin at the bottom of the page then depending on if you're using your own blood you would make a cut on your hand, enough to bleed, or if using the blood blessed by the priest, you can just put some in your hand. Say Lustra one more time and place your bloodied palm over the demon's mouth. A variation of this would disregard the need for a dose once an hour for eight hours but also the Latin. Just giving it eight times should do it. This variation of the cure was preformed on a very high ranking demon, not sure what it would do to a run-of-the-mill demon. The demon's soul would then be redeemed and changed back into a human.'"

Sam slumped back against his seat, his hands limp and eyes staring out into space. Dean let the information seep in. A demon cure? How was that possible? Was Angie gonna tell them there was a cure for vampirism next? Really, what the Hell happened to them in the future?

"Dean?" Sam was reading the papers again but there wasn't any trace of the previous excitement. He looked worried, biting his lip and his eyebrows furrowed.

"What now?"

Sam looked up. "Angie wrote down something about Dad."

Dean perked up, wanting to snatch the papers and see for himself but he held back. "What about Dad?"

"Apparently someone breaks into a storage unit of his outside Buffalo. They steal a…rabbit's foot?"

"Rabbit's foot?"

Sam nodded. "Yeah. Apparently they were hired by someone named Bela Talbot."

~~~SPN~~~

Getting back home had been much easier than I'd anticipated. The idea to teleport to my bedroom was a great idea. As soon as I was back I'd dropped my duffle and collapsed on my bed, letting my muscles relax. So here I was, nearly falling asleep when my stomach growled, angry about the amount of food I'd eaten at Dana's.

I'd tried to be polite, eating an average portion. Dean and Sam knew my struggle so they'd given me bits from their own plates. Ben had joined in, giving up a few pieces of his bacon and sausages. It had been enough to get back home but now my hunger was wreaking havoc on my system.

Groaning as I stood up, I stumbled through the apartment just reaching the fridge when my cell phone blared from the living room, my original teleporting spot from this morning. I'd decided to leave my phone behind on the basis that I wasn't even sure it would work a whole dimension away but oh well. If Ash could get through maybe other calls would. Maybe.

Picking up the phone I grimaced. Donny had sent me thirty-two texts and tried calling me eighteen times. Well, nineteen if you counted the call currently making my phone vibrate and play Ballroom Blitz. Time to face the music.

"Hi Donny."

"What the Hell Angie! Where the fuck have you been?!"

Uh oh. Donny only cursed when he was really upset. According to the time on my phone I'd been gone for over six hours. Last time it had only been roughly three. At least all his calls and texts had been within the last two hours.

Thinking of something, I fell back on an excuse that was fairly legitimate. "I just got back from the rainforest." Hoh Rainforest was located in Olympic National Park west of Seattle and was known to have sketchy reception. I was also known to head up there for day trips.

"Then why haven't you answered my texts or calls?"

He was still a tad upset. He might get even more upset when I gave him my excuse. "I forgot my phone."

He huffed an irritated sigh. "Damn it Angie. You can't being doing stuff like that. I nearly called Dad."

I frowned, turning to head back to the kitchen. That would not be good. Donny was bad enough but add in Dad and surely someone would parish. Good thing Jared wasn't stateside. "Are you trying to start a war? You know what that'd do to the traffic."

"Well, don't forget your phone next time. The fate of the country rests on our being safe and alive. If Jared was stateside, it'd be the fate of the world."

"Thank God for small favors."

Donny chuckled. "You making food?"

I was reminded of Sam and Dean's questions about my abilities. I couldn't tell if my bond with my brother was because we shared the womb or something else. "How can you tell?"

"Just can. You making smothered burritos for dinner?"

My hand paused halfway out of the freezer, the packet of pork chilling my skin. "Why?"

Donny laughed. "I'll be by later. I'll bring some shrimp."

Of course. I was having a craving for shrimp cocktail. "Deal."

"Excellent. See ya later Ange."

"Bye Donny." I cut the call, smiling at my brother. I knew it was true even without Gabe having to tell me earlier at Dana's house. We both agreed on it. Family was family, regardless of the lack of blood connection.

---

Well, there you go people. Let me know how you guys feel about this one. And if there are any grammar mistakes, let me know. Also I forgot to put this on the author note for the last chapter but is anyone interested in seeing a specific episode remade into a chapter? I plan on going through at least season five. So, if there's a certain episode you wanna see, let me know. I can't promise much mostly due to the fact that I need to be able to worm my OC in the episode in a way that makes sense but I'll try my hardest so yeah, if you got requests, let me know. Read and review please! I'll see you guys later! Peace out. -Mez