Hunting world
M: Hello honey, I'm Mandy!
Dean was prepared for some flirting, but when he looked at waitress, all of her attention was focus on angel.
M: What can I get you, handsome?
Her cleavage was showing, and she looked at angel like he was a fine piece of meat. Well, well, that's unexpected. It was clear that Castiel won't say anything. His celestial companion wasn't even interested. What a shame!
D: I would like a double cheeseburger, French fries, and a beer. As for my… buddy over here Ogling Castiel up and down, thinking deeply… Black coffee and apple pie.
When she didn't appear to get the order and move, hunter decided to hurry her up.
That will be all, thank you.
Hearing Dean's answer and noticing him for the first time. One thing was sure, finally Mandy was a little embarrassed. Good – Dean thought – she came too strong, even for his likening.
M: Yes, of course, I will get your order right away.
D: Dude, she is into you. I mean… It's my first day out of hell, and the angel of the lord gets more attention from pretty girls than I am. What the hell? At that moment, looking into the Stoic eyes of his celestial companion, he laughs out loud. It surprises him, but he couldn't stop. His whole face lights up, and tears of joy get in the way.
C: What's so funny?
D: Nothing. It's just… You are so calm and undisturbed. Don't you think she's pretty, or something?
C: What? I can admit that the woman is good-looking, but I am not interested. Besides, she is looking for distraction because of her mother death.
D: What the hell? You can't say shit like that. Checking if there's a chance that someone overheard them. We shouldn't know private stuff about people. Are reading here thoughts? And then… Wait, are you reading mine?
C: Yes. But I agree, base on your memories, it's best not to drown attention. I will say more when we will be alone.
Just the two of us.
A blush swept over the elder Winchester's face, and with it, Mandy emerged on the horizon. Her facial expression betrayed much; she had evidently heard the last sentence expressed by Castiel.
M: Here is your order. She placed the plates in front of them and stood for a long while until finally dared to speak. I wanted to apologize for my earlier behaviour. Turning toward the angel, she added: Especially you, sir. I hope I did not spoil your stay at our hotel.
For several seconds, Castiel didn't say a word. He stared intensely at Dean until he finally responded to the waitress' words with surprising ease.
C: Don't worry, honey, I know it's hard to resist. My partner and I don't hold it against you, but thank you for deciding to apologize. I appreciate it very much.
D: Yes, mmmm, what he said. Thanks.
As the hunter began to eat, the waitress finally decided to give them a break. Dean fought an internal battle with his thoughts about whether he should react to the partners' term. He was sure that Mandy had concluded that they were a couple. What the fuck! On the other hand, Castiel probably didn't mean it. Which is both disappointing, and equally comforting… Better not say anything about that.
D: Did you just wink at her? What is the matter with you? Should I be worried? … And then looking into the eyes of an angel: Are you smiling?
C: Calm dawn Dean, I did what I saw you do in a situation like this. I feel like it did the trick. Did I do it right? It worked for you every time, this charming act, Am I right?
D: Firstly, fuck off, it's weird that you can check my memories like that. Secondly, yes, it worked and works still. Thirdly, It's sweet that you label it as "charming act", I think of it more in "scam category". Be nice, be flirty, and you will get away with so many things. And if you are good in bed, as I am, you served them the whole package.
Sensing the discomfort of his human companion, Castiel decided to lighten the conversation.
C: I think that it's your charm, and I was pleased to have improved the mood of the waitress.
After a moment's consideration, he asked. Do you want me to stop reading your mind? This is a skill of all angels, but in our case this activity comes easily to me. I would have to consciously stop reaching out for your presence, which is difficult, but not impossible.
D: Easy for you? Is it because of the bond? I won't say it's pleasant. These are my private thoughts, emotions, and feelings. I know you know my memories, but I guess the present is too much for me.
Another intense look from the celestial being. In Dean's subconscious, the head tilted to the left and the intense blue eyes are the telltale sign of an angel, and it's only been a few hours since he returned to the living… Get a grip, Dean!
C: Understand. I will stop reading your mind, but let's agree, that if we will find ourselves in danger, or difficult situation – I will.
D: Yeah, okay, sounds reasonable to me.
C: And…
D: And?
C: If an emergency arises during which you need to talk to me, but wouldn't want others to know about it…. Pray to me. It's important to start the prayer by directly addressing me. Use my name and I will hear it.
Silence. This is how the angel's words were received. The elder Winchester didn't quite know how to react to what he heard. The whole conversation was making him dizzy, and not even an eaten cheeseburger could fix the situation. Prayer seemed too intimate to him.
D: I am sorry, what? I don't remember the last time I have prayed to anyone. Don't get me wrong, Cas, It's just too bizarre. Can you even respond to my words?
C: It's okay, Dean. I understand, but I think it can be useful for us in the future. Normally, angels and God cannot answer a prayer directly, but they hear it. I think that through ritual, I can do that. Would you like to try it?
With nothing to add, the hunter closed his eyes to get a sense that at least one thing was under his control. Taking a deep breath, he began a silent prayer. *Dear Castiel, divine angel of the lord, can you hear me?*
C: *I can hear you, Dean. Can you?*
D: *Son of a bitch! Wait, I shouldn't curse. Forgive me Cas. We can talk like that, and you won't read my thoughts, right?*
C: *Yes, Dean, you can feel safe here. Just me and you, no thoughts, just a conversation.*
D: *Oh my, this could be handy! I would give anything to speak with Sammy like that when we are on the hunts.*
C: *I imagine. Do you want to know why exactly are you out of hell? Whole story, not just bits you have from my memories. I think that in case of reading angel's thoughts, it could be difficult to really understand what you see.*
D: *Well, it's more colours than words, that's for sure. But I know that I was in danger of breaking some kind of seal. I know that a certain angel gave you this mission because God commends it. Not only that, but I know you think I'm worth something, but I can't remember what or why. Oh, and the most important part – I know you have some information about Sammy, something dark…. There were some really horrifying colours in response to my little brother's name.*
C: *I am impressed. You know more than I could've predicted. You read me like a book, even with colours, but I was right in one thing – you'll never know the full picture of my consciousness. Angels have a more complicated "being".*
D: *I would like to know all about you. I feel, like I don't have any leverage in this bond. But I'm glad that at least I read you right. Tell me about Sammy, I am frightened and nervous at the very thought of these colours around him.
Hold on a second. Why am I being so honest with you?*
C: *You can't lie when you're praying. It's impossible. As for Sam…*
D: *What? You should have warned me!*
C: *Didn't think it's important. I am honest, you should be too. As for Sam, your brother is a devil vessel. Created specifically for Lucifer. And you are a vessel of archangel Michael.*
D: *What the fuck?*
C: *I will explain everything, don't interrupt me.*
D: *Sorry man, but what the hell.*
C: *Hell indeed. I don't think I should say to you all, but I feel that I cannot conceal much. It's weird, but I want to trust you. I hope I won't regret it later. Here it goes:
My father loves good stories. He adores drama, action, and really bloody endings. Some of his best are easy to search in the bible, especially in the Old Testament.
I am sure you know about Cain & Abel story. This particular family drama reflects our problems.
Meaning my father's issue with his sons: the eldest, obedient Michael, and the youngest, rebellious Lucifer. Admittedly, Lucifer was not killed, but imprisoned in the abyss of hell. In a cage designed specifically for him. He was pushed there by his beloved brother, Michael, at the behest of the god.
The greatest betrayal in history. Created by God with the idea of creating a counterbalance to the good. This is how he created the ultimate division: heaven, earth, hell. Not to mention purgatory.*
D: *Cas, this is a fascinating story, but what this has to do with me and my brother?*
C: *From what my brother Gabriel conveyed to me, I understood that you and your brother were born to complete my father's story. The final judgment, the apocalypse, and the greatest of battles of betrayed siblings. You were born so that Michael and Lucifer could fight one last battle to the death. Wearing your meat suits.*
Sitting across from the angel in the hotel restaurant, the hunter felt overwhelmed by the news he had received. He had a thousand more questions, but lacked the strength to ask them. Mentally, he felt exhausted. Instead of continuing to pray, he reached for a forgotten piece of cake.
D: I think I need a moment. Can we come back to the matter later? Try the coffee, I think you might like it.
Reaching for a cup of black liquid, the angel said: I think I will feel the molecules alone. Taking a sip, he surprised himself. However, I was wrong, I don't know why, but I can smell the taste. But it is lighter than what I associate with your memories. Can I add sugar?
Glad that the conversation has descended to another topic. The hunter slipped the angel a sugar bowl. Treat yourself man. After a moment's hesitation, he added: Would you like to try the cake?
C: I would like that….
It's delicious. I feel I shouldn't be able to try it, but I'm glad that our bond has caused that I can explore the delights of food with you.
D: Yeah, I'm glad, too. After another long pause, he added: Can we go to our room now? I mean, how will you pay for this?
C: I will create money. Just watch. Exactly 70 dollars appeared on the table. It should cover it, I think?
D: Yep. Can we go now?
C: Of course, Dean. Rising mechanically from his chair. Castiel stopped in an unnatural position, his voice rang out in the elder Winchester's head. *Dean, we have company. I feel a supernatural aura.*
D: Fuck man. The hunter's face hardened, he did a little reconnaissance and became convinced that Castiel was absolutely right. The strange thing was that his hunting techniques were now complemented by the colour of the aura spread by the suspicious woman. *Dear Castiel, most excellent angel, the blonde at table 4, it must be her. Why do I see a red colour around her? Is this how you see others? Wait. Don't answer now, let's focus on the case. Go to the bathroom, I will approach her and try to drag her with me to a secluded place. There we will check who she is.*
C: *Dean, wait. She is…*
D: *There's no time. Her companion will be killed if we don't react. I'm going.*
C: *She's a vampire. Be careful.*
The angel had never felt the passage of time like he felt at this moment. Reviewing the space, he concluded that this dark corner, was the best place to deal with the vampire. The problem was that 15 minutes had passed and Dean was still gone. He succumbed to the human emotions he had learned during the ritual, which wasn't a good sign. He knew that as an angel, he could destroy this abomination with one move, but Dean didn't let him get a word in before he moved into action. Perhaps this is for the best. Using the cleansing power could catch Naomi's attention. Although he's accomplished the mission and is sticking to orders, it's better that no one disturbs him while he's trying to deceive his brothers and sisters.
D: You are gorgeous. The sound of kisses could be heard from around the corner. The elder Winchester was definitely getting into character. At the very thought of the hug, Castiel felt distaste, which surprised him greatly. Coming back to reality, he heard footsteps approaching.
Vampire: Oh dear, I'm about to eat you. You won't be able to resist.
D: I'm already looking forward to it, babe.
*Cas, be ready. When we slide in to that corner, get her from behind, and hold here tight.*
Faster than lightning, the angel intercepted the vampire. Holding her, he could smell the stench of carrion. Leaning his face out from behind the woman, he looked at a surprised and slightly distracted Dean, whose neck was covered with red lipstick and two barely noticeable, shallow stings. For the first time, Castiel felt anger: Did you get bitten?
This question was like a bucket of cold water for older Winchester. The hunter went into hunting mode. What? No, I knew she wouldn't drink in public. It's more like a love bite, man. Scam move, man. Looking around, he spotted a wooden chair right next to them, pulled off one leg, creating a sharp angle, and turned to the vampire.
D: Now we can talk, babe. Where is your pack? Are you here alone?
In response, he heard only laughter. He didn't like it. He slapped her across the face with all his strength, blood poured from the inside of her mouth, and sharp fangs came out.
Vampire: I won't tell you anything. You can kill me.
D: Oh, babe. I don't want to kill you. I mean, I do, but first I want some answers.
Vampire: Not a chance!
D: Okay, Rebecca, you have two options. One: we can torture you for hours, days, months, years, and you'll be in pain for a very long time. Until you spill the tea, and then die. Two: you can choose quick, painless death, as soon, as you say where your pack is.
Silence was hardly the answer the hunter was waiting for. Having no patience and fearing that someone would soon appear beside them, he decided to act. He turned to his companion: Can you move us to a place where no one will disturb us?
Castiel nodded, indicating for Dean to grab his arm. The world in front of them swirled, and everything went black.
Vampire: Who the fuck are you? I don't remember hunters having magic tricks up their sleeves.
Ignoring the girl, Dean addressed the angel. Can we hang here somewhere, where I could torture her?
C: I don't think it's wise.
D: Come on, man, the bitch needs to tell us more.
The next moment, the vampire hung on a torture wheel straight out of medieval Europe, with an unassuming angel in a cream-coloured trench coat standing beside her. The elder Winchester was impressed.
D: Now we can talk. Grabbing a makeshift wooden stake, he moved toward the woman. Without hesitation, he drove the sharp tip into her collarbone.
Blood and screaming. That's all that could be heard within a five kilometre. Castiel moved them into the deepest, darkest forest he could imagine. There were no animals here. He knew that using grace was risky, but as long as he didn't point it directly at people, they were in no danger of being discovered.
He looked at Dean with wonder and dread. Another human emotion he had not felt until now.
Time flew by, and the hunter managed to get more and more answers. They already knew that her pack was stationed in Baton Rouge. In addition to her, there are 5 vampires in it, including the alpha. She herself decided to hunt in the new territory. New Orleans seemed ideal for that.
Seeing the amount of blood that oozed from the eyeball hole he had plucked out of the vampire, Dean should have felt at least a bit of distress. However, the only thing that popped up in his mind was the desire for more torture. Unfortunately, he had the feeling that he had already learned everything.
D: Okay, babe. You were really helpful. Do you want to add something more?
The bloody saliva went directly into his face. Vampire: Go to hell!
He smiled. D: Been there, done that, if you ask me, it's an overrated place. Thanks anyway.
With a quick movement, he pointed the stake straight at her throat. Strike after strike, Dean tore the vampire's head from the rest of her body with inhuman strength. The woman was alive, even with half of her head severed. Unimaginable spasms of pain and horror ran through her. The angel couldn't take it any more. He felt that the hunter was not going to relieve her suffering. He decided to do it for him.
C: Dean, stop!
He tossed the older Winchester aside, quickly pulling off the vampire's head. He looked at the wooden circle he had created, the dead woman and the surrounding blood. Not only that, but he felt horror.
He turned toward Dean, asking: Do you have a lighter?
When the hunter did not respond, dully staring at his own bloody hands. He extended the grace in his direction, shaking him out of his shock.
C: Dean, do you have a lighter? We need to burn it and clean up the forest. In response, the hunter threw a lighter at him. Still no verbal response.
C: After cleaning forest. Angel look at Dean, who didn't move from his previous place. Come on, let's go back to the hotel.
Reaching for the hunter. Castiel teleport them to their hotel room. As soon as it happened. Dean decided to spoke quietly: I am a monster. I couldn't stop, I didn't want to.
Bewildered eyes search for the calm angel blue.
D: I am evil, Cas. I…
Tears and despair were showing on hunter face. His legs give away, and he landed on the hard floor. The angel with him. Strong arms land on his weak being.
C: It's okay, Dean, it's going to be okay. I've got you. You're safe. Take a deep breath.
A great burden fell from the hunter's heart. Finally, he calm down, but didn't want to stand up. He hug angel back, and rest his face on angel shoulder.
D: Thank you Castiel, thank you.
Another new feeling swept over the Angel. He felt grateful. After everything that had happened, it was a strange feeling.
Here kneel the angel of the lord, next to the broken by hell human who enjoyed killing another being. And what the angel feels is warm.
What would God say to that?
And is it matter? Castiel thought.