The long fall

by VRitze

Now your enemies, now your friends. The Winchesters meet with a new character that results in more than just a girl

2. The Chase

Days turned into weeks with no word from Castiel. Dean, growing increasingly impatient, turned to alcohol to numb his anxiety. Sam, well aware of his brother's struggles, tried to keep him in check. But Dean wasn't the only one Sam got to keep his eye on. Bobby, reeling from the loss of his lifelong friend Rufus at the hands of a rising new enemy calling herself Mother of All, was spiraling into a dangerous pattern of neglect. He pushed himself to the brink, subsisting on coffee and alcohol, desperately searching for a way to defeat this new, terrifying threat.

Tired as he was walking carefully in a room full of eggshells, Sam finally exploded one day.

-Well, maybe our new friend Abaddon would know something about it. Why don't you both try calling her?-

-You know she calls us fakes, Sam, and stormed out of the room, remember? Because I think …well, at least that was how it looked to me…-

-I know Dean, I was being sarcastic…-

-No, no, you might be up to something…I mean. I guess it is like talking to Baltazar, right? She won't be thrilled to see us, but maybe…just maybe….-negotiated Bobby -Nobody is picking up the phone, not Castie, not Balthazar, maybe we could try this new choice, see what she got…-

-Booby, you were not there. She literally called us out, said to Castiel's face never to trust us if he appreciated his life, and puffed out of the picture like a righteous diva-

-I know, but maybe she is not as upset with us as she is with Cas…Maybe she would give us a chance?-

-She was…She was not upset with Castiel…I think…I think she was hurt. She was trapped in that other dimension for who knows how long…She called, nobody came…- reflected Sam

-Like us right now?- intercepted Dean.

-Maybe she would be inclined to sympathize with us…?- suggested Bobby.

-And maybe she is like us and knows nothing- argued Sam

-But she is not like us…us humans… helplessly waiting on the sidelines with no other choice-argument Dean back -You saw her! She left without Castiel…She is out there, and she looks like she can handle herself. She might have tones of information by now…-

- or be dead for all we know- Frowned Sam

-Dead? So soon? She just arrived – exclaimed Bobby.

Dean and Sam looked at each other.

-Something else I should know? I assumed…- inquired Bobby intrigued.

-It was not really said out loud- started Dean slowly

-It was this weird…- Sam tried to explain, waving his hands around.

-Very weird vibe…- continued Dean

-With the angels… Even Balthazar…-

-Dude, You noticed?-

-Dude, it was like all over his face…-

-Can you two girls get to the point?- said Bobby annoyed. The brothers sighed.

-There is bad blood between the angels and Abaddon, but Castiel seems not to notice- explained Sam.

-What? –

-Bobby, we saw it. Even Raphael stepped away from her like she had the plague-

-Excellent! So, how do we contact her?- asked Bobby. Sam and Dean looked at each other.

-Look, boys, if what you observed is true, that means she is all alone, only Castiel by her side…and maybe us, if we know how to play our cards. -Bobby paused – So, how do we call the plagued angel? A Ritual like Baltazar or a simple call like Castiel?-

-Well, we…we didn't really have the time to get to know each other…- explained Dean. Bobby rolled his eyes

– We have nothing for a written ritual specifically for her, so I guess…a pray…would be?- said Sam and looked at Dean. Dean sighed.

They all stood around in a circle. They were quiet and waited…Nobody talked. Sam and Bobby were staring at Dean.

-No! Wait, you do not expect me to…-

-Well, Castiel always answers you…-

-No, no…He doesn't…and even if he does, THAT does not mean his girlfriend would do the same for me…-

-Fine! I'll give it a try then…- said Sam and opened his hands -Please…Miss..- Dean shook his head negatively. Sam rephrased it -hum…Oh! Mighty Abaddon, if you can hear us, could you please…-

Dean facepalmed – Mighty? Are you serious?-

Sam shrugged.

-…We just need some answers…maybe we could help each other?- intervened Dean, but nothing occurred. -Okay, fine! Who needs you…- Dean stormed out of the room.

-Well, I guess I'll go back to work now- Bobby sat back at his desk to continue the search. Sam went from the slammed door to Bobby and back. He drew a deep breath; his brother may not be back until the next day, and Bobby, well, he was not going to be available until around that time as well.

At sunrise, Dean finally made it back home. The house was dark and silent. He tumbled all over to the living room until he was able to find the sofa and drooped on it tired.

-Darn you, Abaddon!- he mumbled with his face half buried in the sofa -It is not that I don't trust Cas. You don't know… You weren't even there! – he protested, raising his voice -What do you know? He saved my brother and me…he saved us so many times…I am nothing but grateful to that …bastard son of a…angel…Why is he doing this?- Dean was mumbling into the sofa at this point; he was slowly falling asleep, and the alcohol was doing his bid. Dean was slowly fading away in a sweet, dreamless stupor when suddenly, he sobered up. It was like a miny tycoon passed by and cleared his head in one swipe. He sat down, all confused.

- Really?- he heard a voice right next to him. He was startled. -So, you consider him a friend?- Abaddon sat in the shadows on the other side, her eyes glowing. Dean sank back slowly into the couch, recognizing her.

- He is our friend…- Dean paused and rephrased it – No, he is more than that; he is part of this family- Dean's voice did not even waver- Sometimes, family can have disagreements, but that does not mean he would stop having us… It really hurt, you know! -he protested; maybe he was still under the alcohol effects. He suddenly found himself confessing his most inner secrets to her – That look on his face when you told him we are not his friends, we do not trust him…It haunts me…And all I want to do now is to punch it out of his face!- he slammed his fist against his other hand.

-Really? Castiel will have you guys holding his hand until the bitter end? How noble…But, are you sure of your words? Are you certain you will stay by his side no matter what?- Abaddon stood up and passed around.

-You've better believe, sister…- Dean stood up as well

- HAHAHA- Abaddon laughed out loud, but Dean could tell her laugh was fake. It felt bitter and lonely.

-So easy to talk. I do hope your money is where your mouth is. Dean- She walked up to him – Why did you call me for? To spill the beans about what he is doing? Be your little spy? It is very simple; your sorry butt can rest at ease while he wages alone a war against a much more powerful being that wants earth's destruction…Oh, wait! Didn't he tell you all this already?-

-He's alone because he's not being honest with us, and neither are you!- Dean turned to face her. -You know there's more to this. Look what he did! He sent us into that godforsaken dimension without a clue. 'Oh, I knew you'd be okay,' he said like it was nothing. Well, thanks for the confidence, but a little more information would've been nice. I could punch him for that too.-

-You honestly think you can help him? Cute – she chuckled - Let's put it this way. He is that nerdy kid with the ant farm, trying desperately to defend it against the bully. I guess being bait was the best you could do for him. I mean, what else can you do?-

-Many things! For instance, maybe he does not have those lame, tiny ants. Maybe he has those big-ass African killer ones… I'm pretty sure our curriculum can support that!-

Abaddon laughed -Well said! Let's put that to the test- she stretched her hand and touched Dean's shoulder.

He suddenly finds himself with Sam standing by her other side, looking super confused. They were all standing in between the kitchen and Bobby's office. Bobby was fast asleep over a pile of documents on his desk. His wife just entered the house and, because she was carrying groceries, she slammed the door; everyone turned around at her, Bobby woke up startled.

-Boys! I see we have company- she greeted them and put the groceries down on the kitchen counter. She looked around at them in some sort of surprise mixed with curiosity.

-What the heck!- interrupted Bobby, and everybody turned now around at him. -Oh! We have company…- he fumbled to his feet and tried to organize his desk.

-I have a proposition for you guys!- Abaddon moved to the side, but everybody was staring at Dean.

-Oh yeah! -snapped Dean -Bobby, Helen. This is Abaddon…-

-Abaddon? The angel. You were able to contact her?- Bobby turned around at the girl. She made a little curtsy and smiled back.

-I did not contact her! She sort of appeared… SAM! You remember Abaddon…- he tried to deviate from the conversation.

-Of course…Thank you for coming…- He made a small curtsy too at her. She smiled back. Sam turned around and mouthed at Dean -You prayed, and she answered you!- Sam joked.

Dean mouthed back -NO, I DID NOT!-

-Yes, you did- mocked Sam

-No!- protested Dean. Helen took a deep breath, walked to them, and slapped them both on the back of their heads.

-Ouch!- they both chorus.

-Now that we have everybody's attention…your proposal girl?-

Abaddon smiled -let's hear first about Sam's findings-

Sam was caught off guard. He was just about to come down for breakfast to inform everybody about his investigation last night when he suddenly found himself standing by in the kitchen with Abaddon and Dean.

-…You mean those weird deads?- Sam reacted

-In Pennsylvania, yes!- continued Abaddon.

-Oh! Okay…-he looked around and pulled a piece of newspaper out of his shirt pocket.

-What did you get?- approached Dean

-Just in Pennsylvania, three people that kick-off in the last week. All freaky. Last guy got karate-chop by his garage door, and these are all blood relatives.-

-What do you think, a family curse?- approached Helen.

-Could be…- answered Sam

-Hey, grumpy!- called Dean at Bobby, but he was already standing behind him, startling Dean -…you want uhm…check this one out?- Dean pointed at the clip of paper Sam was holding.

-What does this have to do with Castiel?- Bobby grumbled and turned around at the girl.

-Let's put it this way. There are consequences for every decision we make…Imagine what kind of consequences these can be for a celestial being…- Abaddon looked at Helen – Help me out on this one little ant, and I will take you straight to your nerdy child for answers – Abaddon crossed her arms. Dean was the only one who smiled. Everyone else was confused.

-Okey then…let's investigate!- Dean called around.

Dean, Sam, and Abaddon headed to Pennsylvania to investigate the victim's garage. Bobby and Helen stayed back to research. Abaddon transported them right into the garage of the victim. The police were still investigating, so the area was cordoned off. Nobody was allowed in, so they had all the place for themselves.

-Talking about efficiency…- smiled Dean

-Peruse away at your heart's content…- said Abaddon, moving away to let them do their job.

Dean pulled a gizmo out of his backpack and walked around, trying to determine if there was ghost activity in the area.

-Nothing!- said Dean after a while of walking back and forward. Abaddon peered over his shoulder; he leaned down to let her see.

-Not a vengeful spirit then…- concluded Sam, who was inspecting the place looking for something unusual -So, what is it?- he said while staring at the floor, suddenly a shimmer caught his attention -Huh!-

-What did you get?- came Dean, but Abaddon did not follow. She instead moved to the garage door and examined it.

-It's that Christmas Tencel?- asked Dean. Sam picked up a piece of cord from the floor. It was quite thick and stood out from everything in the garage. It looked quite new.

-I don't know- answered Sam and quickly looked around for something. He went to a nearby bench and took a pot that was there. He rubbed the cord against it. -It's gold!- he concluded

-You mean like gold, gold?- asked Dean

-Why would a handyman have gold just lying around his garage?- reflected Sam.

-I don't know. There are definitive skeletons in this family closet. Accidents don't just happen accidentally…you know what I mean- Sam gave him a weird look.

-Okay, what about I go family records, and you go next of kin?- continued Sam.

-yeah!- Dean agreed and moved to Abaddon -Abi…you come with me- he called her. She was standing still by the door, looking at the mechanics. Dean and Sam stood each by her side and waited. Abaddon silently looked at both of them, put her hands on their shoulders, and transported them to the next location. Sam first.

Dean and Abaddon were sitting in a lawyer's office, talking with the busy man about his dead cousins. He was barely paying attention to them until Dean started to ask the odd questions: Anything noteworthy about the Russos?-

-Anything? No…I mean, we are just bakers from Italy…-

-I see. Was anybody ever killed, or do you know about some other violent thing that may have happened before all these incidents? –

The attorney's eyes are fixed on Dean. -What do you mean?-

-Maybe something so dark that could sully future generations…- continued Dean.

The attorney was baffled. He turned to the girl, but she was off looking distractedly around the office.

-Uhm No?-

-Good stuff!... Did anyone own a slave?-

-What?-

-Routine question…Anybody tied to the nazi party?-

the attorney became exasperated -Excuse me?-

-Did Grandma ever piss off a gypsy?-

That was it for the attorney. He had had enough -Okey! You know what? I don't know what kind of investigation you are doing, but it is over right now…If you don't mind…-

-Okay, okay, I'll just chase here…your life is in danger –Tried Dean to reach out. Abaddon looked at him, amazed, then turned to the attorney. The attorney was going from them both, speechless.

-What? What is that a tre…Are you threatening me?- he finally exploded.

-No, no, no, I am just saying that if you don't watch your back, you are going to die- explained Dean.

-Well, that sounded even better- commented Abaddon and moved to the door.

-Get the heck out of my office! NOW!- the lawyer was clearly upset.

-Okay!- Dean stood up and walked to Abaddon. They left.

-Is this how you usually handle your cases?- commented Abaddon when they were out in the street.

-Shh, I'm in a call- deviated Dean taking her by the arm and walking her to the nearest alley. She looked at it curiously but said nothing.

-Sam!-

-Find anything?- said Sam over the phone

-Just a blowhard with a shiny suit. You?-

-Not much. His great-grandparents arrived in the country, and they have been here ever since…-

-No severed horse head?-

-Ha! Four generations of honest salarymen!- said Sam jokingly.

-Ah! These people are just your random citizens, so why are they dying?-

But Dean and Abaddon never reached the alley. The next thing Dean knew was that he was in front of Sam, who was holding a phone to his ear, looking at them surprised.

-Oh! Right, you can do that…- said Dean feeling silly. He let go of Abaddon and hung up the call. And so did Sam.

-Who's next?- asked Abaddon

-Breakfast first?- asked Dean

Later that day, Sam and Dean found each other at the office of a travel agent.

-This can be good for my digestion – complained Dean.

-Yeah! But you have to admit it has been a time saver – commented Sam as they walked around the office.

Ann Witting mysteriously died in that office. It matched the style of the strange deaths reported so far only; this victim was not related by blood like the others.

-Sure, she is not a Russo; twice removed second cousin or something?- asked Dean. Abaddon stopped at the printer machine and examined it. According to the police records, the victim was electrocuted when the machine failed somehow.

-I check her records twice. She is not related-

-If this is not a family curse, what the heck is it?-

-You got me! We got nothing-

This time, it was Dean who found the gold treated on the floor. -Hold on!- he picked it up -Not nothing…- he held it up so everybody could see it.

That night, Sam and Dean checked into a hotel to go over their findings.

-Enough!- Had said Dean. -You are not puffing us anymore…I need a rest…-

-Fine!- had said Abaddon.

Dean was talking to Helen over the phone. Meanwhile, Sam was on the computer investigating, and Abaddon was examining the gold treats.

-So, so far, we have found these pieces of shiny string…- said Dean.

-Oh! I was afraid of that- came Helen's voice unbothered.

-Why? What's up?-

-I got Joe and her crew looking over those cases. It's happening nationwide. Randow dead and pieces of gold treats found in the scene, we have around 75 cases-

-Blood relatives?

-Some are some no-

-So, what does it mean?-

-I don't know, I got Bobby working on it right now-

-how he is doing, by the way-

-Oh! Don't worry, I am kicking his ass back to health in happiness-

-Who asks you to? The hell with you!- he mumbles as he passes by her. She slapped a beer out of his hand.

-I heard that- Commented Dean.

-He'll be okay- continued Helen.

-Are you okay?-

-Oh! How are you sweet, you know me, I just worry about you boys-

-yeah, well…about these corpses, anything relating them?-

-Well, actually, there is one thing. I don't know just what to make of it…

-Hit me-

-Well, it's a weird one, very deep, but…Bobby and I started to get down on the family tree of the victims, and here is the weird part. They all came in the same boat in 1912- Abaddon's eyes darted at Dean.

-Really?- said Dean

-Yeah!-

-Alright, so what is so special about the boat?-

-Nothing…it was a boat, it did what boats do-

-What is it called?-

-The titanic…you heard it?-

-No…-

-yeah, me neither. I'll keep digging-

-All right…- Dean hung up and turned to Sam and Abaddon -The name Titanic ring a bell?- he asked them.

-Titanic? No…- answered Sam, but Abaddon looked down at the treat concerned.

-…But…it seems that you do!- Dean walked up to her. She sighed.

-Maybe -she answered slowly -Sam, can you look for articles about the Titanic?-

A few clicks later, Sam was reading out loud a few facts about its history.

-It said it had a close call. It almost hit an iceberg- he commented -It was saved thanks to the great efforts of the first mate, Mister I.P. Freely…- Sam scoffed. Abaddon and Dean looked at him.

-Are you serious with that name? Well, that is not suspicious. Do we have a picture of old Freely?- Dean and Abaddon stood behind Sam. Sam pulled a photo.

-You've got to be kidding me!- said Sam. Baltazar was there sitting among the crew sporting a First-mate uniform. In a matter of seconds, the brothers prepared the ritual to call on Baltazar. Abaddon waited on the side.

-Hope he can make it!- said Sam as they prepared the table. Dean threw the match into the bowl, and the dust sparkled. But nothing happened, at least not right away. It took a full minute for the lights to flicker, and they even exploded before he presented before them. Abaddon was in the back corner, looking at the whole thing quietly.

-Boys, Boys, Boys…Whatever can I do for you?– He stopped death in his tracks when he saw Abaddon -Madam…You know our captain has been looking for you…- he addressed her. She said nothing and smiled at him.

-We need to talk-

-You seem upset, Dean-

-The heck with the boat Baltazar- demanded Dean.

-What boat?-

-The Titanic!- informed Sam

-Oh! Yeah..the Titanic – he quickly looked at Abaddon. She was staring at him- Yes…it was meant to sink, and I saved it…-

-What?- said Dean.

-It was meant to bash into this iceberg thing and plunge into the deep darkness, and I saved it. Anything else I can answer for you?- he gave a quick look back at Abaddon. She has not moved.

-Why?- asked Sam

-Why what?-

-Why did you unsink the ship?- rephrased Dean

-Oh! Because I hated the movie-

-What movie?- asked Dean

-Exactly!- he laughed

-Wait, so you saved a cruise liner because…- started Sam.

-Because that awful song from Celine Dion made me want to smite myself-

-Who is Celine Dion- asked Sam.

-Of no importance now, and let's keep it that way, please!-

-Okay, I didn't think that was possible. I thought you couldn't change history- said Sam

-Don't you know Sam? All's fair in love and war.- Abaddon sighed and shuffled around. Baltazar gave her again a quick look. She walked up to them. Balthazar was all skittish; he looked tired and quite the mess. Dean noted.

-Well, wow, The nerve on you- said Sam -So, you just unsunk a giant boat?-

-Come on! I saved people. I thought you loved that kind of thing!- Balthazar answered tiredly and looked around for something.

-Yeah, but now those people and their kids…and their kid's kids are being murdered…you totally butterfly-affected history-

-Dude, rule number one, no Kutchon's references- darted Dean

-Oh yeah, there are still Kutchon's references, and YOU still adverted the apocalypse, and there are still archangels— replied Balthazar.

-This sounds to me like a big waste of time…-said Abaddon. Baltazar looked at her nervously -If you were going to change the past…why did you choose that event in specific…?-

-Because…It's…it's just the small details that are different, like they no longer drive an Impala- Sam and Dean looked at each other – yes, yes, what is an Impala, trust me, is of no importance and of course, Helen and Jo are alive!- Baltazar finally found the little bar stuck away in a corner just behind him, he went there and served himself a drink.

Abaddon glanced at the brothers. They were stunned.

-Helen and Jo what?- came Dean.

-yes, they were supposed to be dead…you see, I saved a boat… One thing leads to another that leads to another thousand things…yadayadayada. To cut a long story short, they didn't die in that massive explosion…-let's agree I did a good thing. One less boring movie in the world, and I save two of your closest friends-

-But now somebody is killing the descendants of the survivors- argued Sam after a moment of reconsideration.

-And?-

-And that's maybe like fifty thousand people- put Sam the mathematics.

-And?-

-And we need to save as many as we can, so we need to know who's after them…- intervened Dean

-Oh! Right…Sorry…you got me confused with the other angel…You know the one in the trench coat who is in love with you? I…don't care…Goodbye, boys!-

Wait, wait, wait!- called Dean. Abaddon stepped in before he could disappear. Balthazar stood very still.

She crossed her arms -Was this an order or a suggestion?- she asked him.

-We are not going to make it…- was all Balthazar answered, and he sighed.

-Such bravery…I never thought you had it in you to take sides…- Abaddon mocked, but her voice died out. A flicker of empathy flashed in her eyes as she saw the misery etched on Balthazar's face. He was a pawn in a dangerous game, caught between Raphael's wrath and his own survival. A bitter smile crept across her lips; he was finally experiencing the same helplessness she had known.

Balthazar put his drink away, extending a hand, invited her, -Ma'lady, would you come with me? He could use a friend right now.-

Dean and Sam stared at Abaddon, holding their breaths, but said nothing.

-I'm just making a social call,- she turned around at the brothers, a knowing glint in her eye. -Shouldn't take long.-

She took Balthazar's hand, and together, they vanished. She had winked at the brothers and left Dean with the Impala keys in his hands.

-So Baltazar unsank a boat, now we have a boatload of people who should have never been born…- resumed Bobby over the phone.

-Yeah, like… fifty-thousand- rounded Sam.

-makes sense…-

-How does any of this make sense?-

-humm, I thought new angel in town would have already filled you in on the consequences…-

-Hum, yeah, she disappeared after our talk to Baltazar…- commented Dean certain bitterness in his tone.

-Oh! She coming back?-

-She said she was going for a social call … This is the time we have heard nothing from her- muttered Dean

-So, how does this make sense?- recapitulated Sam

-Well, because I have an idea who we are up against-

-What?- asked Dean

-Fate!- came the answer.

-You mean…-

-I mean fate like THE fates-

-Do you mean like Greek mythology? Like the sisters?- asked Sam

-Bingo!-

-Never heard of them- whispered Dean. Sam gave him a look and rolled his eyes.

-These ladies are responsible for how you go down- continued Bobby- literally, so if you get cream by a garage door or crunch by a printer machine…they are the ones that hammered the details of how you die…spin out your fate on a piece of gold…-

-Gold treat- interrupted Sam looking at the pieces of threat they had on the table.

-And then one of them writes it all down in their day-runner of dead. High-level stuff. Anyway…I think it fits! And I am pretty sure new in town would have known better… She never mentions the fates in this whole investigation?-

The brothers looked at each other but said nothing

- You suspect that she already knew all this…- came Bobby's voice over the phone – But she said nothing because she was actually after something else? Am I reading you guys right?-

-Spot on… – said Sam

-What is it with these angels and their half-ass trust?- exploded Dean. -She is using us the same as Castiel!-

-You know that's not true Dean…Up until now, we've been working together; she just realized who the reason behind all this was. I am sure she suspected the fates, but just now…I believe she went to confront the big fish-

-ALONE! She knows we need to confront that big fish too…-

-Do we?- intervened Bobby – we have tried our best with Castiel Dean. Maybe she could do better than us…alone. You know a client can hire us, but we only get involved as much as they let us…Castiel is her friend…-

-And what are we? Chop liver on the side?- interrupted Dean.

- Dean, let her deal with Castiel. She has earned that much. She just pointed out the reason. Now it is up to us to figure out what to do about it from our end. We know what Baltazar did; it seems to me like FATE is just trying to clean up the mess-

-So…how do we stop it?- asked Sam

-How do we stop Fate? Good question…-

-Well, thank you, Abaddon, for all your guidance…- Dean sighed – There must be something we could do…-

-Or there isn't. I mean, this is Fate, which we are talking about here. You know the easiest way would be to…get the angel to resink the boat…-

-No, no way- jumped Dean -Forget it!-

-There's a big difference between dying awful and never being born, Dean!-

-We are not sinking the boat Bobby! Okay? Don't even think about it…-

-Okay…What got your panties on a clench?- Sam a Dean looked at each other.

-Nothing- answered Dean.

-Try that again?-

-It…it doesn't even matter but…-

-But?-

-Apparently, a crap load of dominos got kicked over if the Titanic went down, and that… bottom line… Helen and Joe died…- Bobby went silent on the other side. They all went silent.

-Call Abaddon?- was all he was able to say over a choked voice.

-What?- asked Sam confused.

-You stop her right now!- Bobby demanded- for all we know, she could be fixing the problem right this instant-

Dean and Sam exchanged a worried glance. Dean opened his mouth to speak, then closed it. Finally, he found his voice. -Abaddon, please... please give us a chance. We can fix this. We don't need to sink that boat. There has to be another way, please...- He called out, but she didn't respond.

-Well?- came Bobby impatiently.

-look, Bobby, for all we know, if she fixed this, we wouldn't have the slightest idea… It would be fixed by now. But we are still here; I mean, our memories are still here. Joe and Helen are here, right?…- replied Sam. Bobby was sitting in the dark in front of his desk. He looked over to the side where a photo of his wife and he was standing among the documents and open books from his investigation. It was a photo of a fishing trip they made not so long ago. They look happy.

-Fine! We just need to find fate and sort things out before Abaddon does it for us. You understand me?- ordered Bobby

-Yes! We will…of course- replied Dean. Bobby hung up. Dean went to the mini fridge for a drink.

-Please, Abaddon!- now Sam called -just give us…give us a little bit more time…please, I know we can fix this without having to sink that boat!- he begged, but nothing happened; he looked around and sighed. -What do we do?- asked Sam -How do we save fifty thousand people?-

-I've got no freaking clue- answered Dean

-We don't even know where they all are-

-But we know about one- Sam remembered the attorney.

-Excellent! We have something to look forward to, and…we have been set with a ride- Dean flashed the keys at Sam – Care to join me and find out what an Impala is?-

Sam walked to Dean, and they both went out of their hotel room to find the mysterious Impala.

Early in the morning, Sam and Dean were waiting for the attorney outside his office. Abbadon didn't show up all night.

Attorney Russo came out of the building, shouting into his phone. Sam and Dean hurried after him, calling out, but he was too engrossed in his conversation. As he reached the street, Dean shouted so loud that the attorney paused, looking after the sound of his name, oblivious to the danger. A truck, careening out of control, screeched to a halt right in front of him. Had he continued walking, he would have been hit. Sam and Dean were fast enough to pull him out of the way.

-Get off me- he pushed Sam, who was trying to get him on his feet -And you! I told you to leave me alone, didn't I?-

-We were just trying to help you out, okay?- said Dean dignified

- You almost killed me, you lunatic…give me that!- he snapped his cell phone from Dean's hand

-Russo!- Dean called

-Just be glad I am not suing you…- and he turned around to cross the street, but just as he stepped on it, a bus ran him over.

-Got to be kidding me!- expressed Dean, and the crowds started to gather around the accident.

The bus was the 666 with an ad at the back with attorney Russo that read Justice Matters, which Dean points out to Sam.

-Too soon?- he laughed. Sam looks down on him.

-yes, Dean…I am pretty sure ten seconds is too soon- Dean stopped smiling and bobbed. They were both looking at the accident.

Abaddon was standing now next to Sam; she was looking not at the bus but at a nearby store. She touched Sam's jacket. He felt it and turned around, but there was no one there. Nevertheless, his eyes fell on a girl inside a closed store. She looked completely out of place for some reason. It was like her clothes did not match the era. She looked at him for a second and disappeared.

-Hey! I think I saw her- Sam called Dean -Right over there!-

-Saw her? Like fate her?-

-Yeah!-

-What does she looks like?-

-Kind of like a librarian…-

-Your kind of librarian or my kind of librarian?-

-Well, she was wearing clothes. If that's what you mean?-

-All right!- Dean stepped in that direction.

-Wait! We can't just walk over there…-

-We are not on the hit list, we have nothing to do with the boat, let's go talk to her…-

-talk?-

-Yeah, you know…talk- he pointed at his gun under his jacket.-Worth the shot, right?- he moved in. Sam follows. They had no problem entering the store; they moved to the back and opened the door. It was dark inside. The place looked like it was being packed away. Some chairs stood around. It was a restaurant. For the look of it, maybe it went under. There was no electricity, so they turned on their flashlight.

-Hello?- called Dean. Everything was eerie quiet. Just a clock ticking on the wall. Suddenly, everything stopped; a hand moved around the kitchen, opening every gas stove. The clock resumes its ticking.

-Hello?- I called Dean again, and the flashlight went out. -Oh, come on!-

-I have a lighter- Sam pulled it out and tried to put on a flame, but the lighter was not working either; he kept trying while they both walked slowly to the back where the kitchen is. Dean opens the door. The lighter finally works, and a huge explosion goes out, but the brothers are unhurt. Castiel is standing before them.

-CAS!- exclaimed Dean

-Hello Dean, Sam…- Castiel's eyes moved from the brothers to somewhere else. The brothers turned around to Dean's side. Abaddon was standing next to him with her arms crossed.

-hum, so I see you…found Castiel- joke Dean. She smiled at him and walked to Castiel.

-Where are we?- asked Sam

-Russia- Castiel simply answered.

-What?- exclaimed Sam. Dean looked around, confused. They were in the middle of the woods, in the idle of the night; the owls were out, and they started shining above their heads.

-Are you aware of what you frat bro did?- demanded Dean. Castiel looked at Abaddon and lowered his eyesight.

-I am aware that Baltazar can be…impetuous-

-Okay, riddle me this? If fate is after the boat people, why did she try to whisk me and Sam?-

-I imagine she harbors a certain degree of rage toward you.- Castiel raised his eyes to look at Dean.

-What did we do?- asked Sam

-Nothing of importance…just a tiny matter of adverting the apocalypse, rendering her obsolete…I think she is…a little irritated about that – he looked at Abaddon and back at Dean and Sam- and then you got dangled yourself in front of her-

-So we piss fate off personally- concluded Dean

-She is not the only one…- Castiel's eyes fell again on Abaddon -…If I know her…she was devising the best way she could conjure to get rid of you but, now she is kind of distracted so, you may rest at peace for the time being…- they all gave Castiel a weird look -…sort of speaking…-

-Really! Is that your plan all along? To keep the fates distracted so they don't hunt your favorite two people in the whole world? What do you suppose you'll do to keep them alive for a lifetime, undo the past one disaster at a time?-

-Abaddon….-

-No, no, no, don't get me wrong, I'll be totally interested to see where this will take you- she smiled. Castiel puffed, and now he was the one crossing his arms.

-Awesome… So, what do we do?-

-Kill her…- Castiel replied plainly, but oddly enough, his answer came like he was defying Abaddon.

-Is that your answer for everything? All of you!- exploded Abaddon, turning around in rage - If it doesn't serve your purpose, you'll kill anything in your path. But if it does, you cling to it with a death grip. You don't even care for those thousand souls suffering a horrible death or the countless others you are dragging down into the mud. Hypocrites!-

All three looked at each other. -We are trying our best to avoid more deaths-

-Trying!- interrupted Abaddon at Sam -By planning to kill the fates?-

-Well, we don't really have to if they could just stop killing innocents…- reflected Dean.

-and YOU…Because this is all that is about, trying to save yourselves- attacked Abaddon, pointing at all of them.

-That's not true…- came Castiel to the rescue – It is useless of them to keep at it. They are free now to make their own decisions…-

-Castiel! NOT everybody knows what to do with freedom- her voice distorted, it sounded like an echo far away from the deepest Avernus -You destroyed their world how they know it, tossed them aside, gave them no guidance, and what is your solution? Kill them? They are just trying to make sense of this new world…-

-By killing people?- interrupted Dean

-Yes, Dean, because writing the last few seconds of man on earth was the fates job, so they could maintain the balance. That's all they knew. And then an angel came along and added insult to injury. If the fates work was not obvious before, now it is.- her voice still lower and distorted - Sinking the Titanic is no longer an option for the two of you either…NEVER give that a second thought because if so…HELEN AND JOE will die…You're all making them the villains of this story. You're antagonizing them…Like it is their fault the decisions YOU all took…-

Her voice was breaking. Her face started to crack apart. It was crumbling like a clay doll. Sam and Dean were out of themselves, but Castiel walked down to her and took her by her face -Enough!- he commanded her – you are just hurting yourself. The fates were made free like all of us to make now their own decisions…-

-Let go!- she tried to fight him off, but he hugged her tightly, her head on his chest, his mouth whispered in her ear -You were gone, and I couldn't find myself; I was so depressed, I just threw myself into work. I can't remember what I did back in those days; I just followed orders; I moved because I was told to…I thought that would be my life forever... until I met them… – his arms embraced her even tighter. She opened her eyes; deep space was in there, no iris, just infinite darkness, and starts – I know it is scary…I know it may take some trial and error, but you are much stronger and can evolve. You'll get past this and become something else, something amazing…- he felt she relaxed in his arms, so he let go.

-They taught me that…- his head nodded at the brothers standing baffled behind Castiel -if you hang around them long enough, you will see it too- he swiped her finger, holding her face; all her cracks disappeared. She opened her eyes, and she was back to normal.

Abaddon looked into his eyes. Certainly, this Castiel was not the same as the one she left behind. This one was impressive. He was waging war against an archangel, a being much more powerful than he is, just to keep humanity alive. She looked over his shoulder. Sam and Dean were standing behind them, she found conviction in their eyes. These two humans, even with their flaws, were indeed amazing. And then she felt it; there was a warmth coming from the three of them; there was something behind them, like words on the tip of the tongue, but as it came, it suddenly vanished.

Castiel let go of her. He suddenly became cold. There was something creeping behind him. Abaddon was about to let him know when everything disappeared.

-What?-

-Miss Abaddon – called Balthazar from somewhere. She was in the middle of a splendid courtyard, all filled with roses and flowers of many colors. – Would you hear me out? – came Balthazar.

-What that…?- said Dean

- What happened? Where did she go?- interjected Sam, alarmed.

-Don't worry, she is safe; we are just making sure she is fully healed- Castiel answered, unaffected. -Now, regarding the fates…-

-Are we still talking about killing fate?- replied Dean

-can you even do that?- asked Sam

-Baltazar has a weapon that will work against her-

-Of course he does yeah! Well, that guy got it cover…- Dean sighed- You need new friends Cas…-

-I tried to save the ones I have Dean…- they looked at each other for a moment -We have to draw her out…-

-All right, well, she is coming for us. She is bound to surface again eventually- said Sam

-or make it easy for her. I think you have an expression for it: tempting fate?-

The two brothers looked at each other and sighed.

-Abaddon...- Dean hesitated, struggling to find the right words. He glanced at Castiel, whose eyes seemed distant and detached. A wave of doubt washed over him. Would Castiel lie to him? Despite his hesitation, he resolved to ask, -She's joining us later, right?-

-Of course- simply replied Castiel with some kind of a half smile. He put himself in between them and touched their shoulders. They were all back in Pennsylvania, back at the hotel.

Castiel did not say a word; he just disappeared.

-What was that about?- came Sam

-I don't know…with mister sympathies acting strange and she…it wasn't my imagination, right? You saw her breaking too- Dean let himself fall into the bed, and Sam sat beside him.

- yeah, but the way her body broke and her voice! I have never seen an angel do that…-

-I know right? It was…scary…- reflected Dean -Castiel said she was hurting herself…-

-Like hurting her vessel you think? For an instant, it looked to me like something inside was about to burst free…Something amazing…- Dean looked at Sam curiously. - I don't know how to describe it…I kind of wanted to see it, but at the same time, I was dreading it- he took a deep breath -it was something out of a horror movie, like a monster…or a demon….-

-Not a demon Sam, there was no foul stench or killing menace… just fear, pure fear…-

So, after a good night's sleep or so, again, Abaddon was a no-show. Sam and Dean were the next morning out and about, in a curious car called the Impala. Dean and Sam enjoyed the ride. It felt like be right back home for some reason.

-So, this is the car Balthazar said we own in our parallel timeline?- said Sam with one arm resting in the open window, feeling the breeze.

-Well, it ain't half bad; I mean, I cannot tell one bad single thing; I could take this one over the other one waiting back at Bobby's- smiled Dean.

They drove to the town square. It was a busy day today; there was a fair going on with clowns, games, and jugglers, different types of ones: knives, throwers, flame, and arrows.

Tempting fate was a matter of choice at this point. Sam and Dean swallowed hard and took a plunge, diving head-first into the fair. Children were running, dogs were barking, monocycles were, cyclists and skaters were spread amok, but nothing came to be in any situation. They came out of the fair feeling somehow disappointed. They were walking down the street, walking away from the fair; just as they were thinking to turn around and dive back again for another run, a massive refrigerator fell onto them. Before it could hit them, the world stopped.

Castiel walked up to them.

-Castiel…- called a voice, and the librarian walked up to him.

-Arthopus, you look well-

-Spare the pleasantries…-

-Okay, let's talk about this- he walked up to her but stopped dead on his track; Abaddon was standing behind her and walked up to her side.

-Abaddon…-

-Oh yeah! She contacted me. Apparently, we have much in common. She said you were preparing a trap for me…to kill me…I said how could he? He won't even dare-

-Let's talk…- tried Castiel to defuse the situation.

-Talk! Talk about what? How you and those two circus clowns destroy my work? You ruined my life…-

-let's not get emotional…-

-Not get emotional? I had a job. We all had a script. We work hard…I was really, really good in what I did, what it was assigned to me… until the day of the big prize fight – She looked at Abaddon – and then what happened? HE THROW OUT THE BOOK!-

-I am sorry…But freedom is more preferable-

-Freedom? This is chaos! How is this better? I even went to heaven just to ask what to do next, and you know what? No one would even talk to me!-

-There are more pressing matters at hand-

-But I don't know what happens next…I need to know, is what I do!-

-I am sorry, but your services are no longer required…- Abaddon crossed her arms. Castiel sighed.

-you know what? I kept my mouth shut. I could have complained and raised a fuss, but I didn't…but you know what the last straw is? Unsinking the Titanic, you change the future! You cannot change the past. That is going too far…- proceeded Arthopus.

-Is Baltazar…he is erratic…- tried Castiel to make excuses.

-Bull crap!- Arthopus interrupted him -This isn't about some stupid movie…He is under your orders. You sent him back to save that ship…- Castiel looked at Abaddon. She was silently there, looking the whole thing unfold.

-No, I didn't…- he sustained her gaze -Why would I?- he moved around.

-Oh! Maybe because you are in the middle of a war and you're desperate? Come on! This is about the souls…-

-You don't know what you are talking about…-

-That angel went back and created fifty thousand new souls for your war machine..-

-You are confused…-

-No, you can't just mint money, Castiel…Is wrong, is dangerous, and I won't let you…-

Castiel seems to be struggling. He looked at Abaddon, remembering her words just the other night: You are antagonizing them, she said, but right now, it looks more like he was the one being antagonized; Abaddon had a stern look on her. Castiel's heart was racing, but there was no turning back; he made a decision.

-You don't have a choice- Castiel threatened Arthopus; even his voice changed; it became hoarse and harsh. Abaddon's eyes opened wide; she was appalled.

-maybe I don't, but you know, one never knows where fate will spin next- he looked at Sam and Dean, and so did Castiel.

-I won't let you!- he warned her.

-Oh yeah! What are you gonna do?-

-Do you really want to test me?- they stared at each other.

-Okay, fine! But think about this: I got two sisters out there. Kill me, Sam and Dean, become target one, for simple vengeance- Castiel paused on her words. Arthopus continued -you are not busy at all, right? You can watch them every millisecond of every day because maybe you heard…Fate strikes when you least expected it…-

Castiel gave another look at Abaddon. He could see the disappointment in her eyes. He felt his heart sink. Then he turned at Sam and Dean.

-Baltazar, Abaddon, stop!- Castiel ordered, and Fate turned around just in time to see Baltazar about to strike her.

-Oh! Awkard- he laughed. Abaddon with her sword out already on Balthazar's throat. Arthopus moved away from all of them.

-Set this right before I flick your boys out off a cliff just on principle- demanded Arthopus.

-All right, all right! The blade is being put away- Baltazar moved slowly, and Abaddon removed her sword as well. Abaddon looked at Castiel. Arthopus was waiting. Castiel looked at Baltazar and nodded.

-Alright! Let's sink the Titanic- he said and disappeared.

The theme song of Titanic was playing. Dean wakes up and turns the radio off. Sam was startled by the sudden movement.

-Dude, what time is it? I just had the weirdest dream- commented Sam

-Forty bucks said mine is weirdest…I mean I can't…-

-No, no, no I can't either I mean mine was…bizarre-

-Mine had the actual Titanic in it.- Sam looked at Dean dumbfounded. -I have something on my face?- Dean passed his hand around his mouth.

-Did it…not sink?- finally said Sam -because Baltazar…-

-Had a hating for Celine?- they both finish the sentence. Their faces went pretty serious.

-Why are you having my dreams dude?- demanded Dean.

-It wasn't a dream- came a voice, and they turned around to find Castiel.

-Wait, what?- came Dean- you say that this actually happened? That the whole…whatever was actually real?-

-yes…-

-So what happened?- came Sam

-Well, I insisted he go back in time and correct what he'd done…-

-What! Why?- exclaimed Sam

-It's the only way to be sure you are safe-

-So…you kill fifty thousand people for us?- Sam was beyond himself, and so was Dean. Abaddon laughed.

-Wow, you were just about fine to get fifty thousand people gruesome dead and now sad because they never existed… just to keep your two alive. Oh! Is that a blush I see on those virginal cheeks? - Abaddon joined them, arms crossed, as Castiel instinctively took a step back.

- I didn't kill fifty thousand people. They were never born to begin with…That's far different from being killed, won't you say?- corrected Castiel offended.

-You are right…much more merciful to have never existed- her words sounded like coming from a wounded prisoner wishing to end it all. They all felt quiet.

- So…Helen and Joe?- finally came Dean's voice, very raspy. Castiel gave him a dark look -Sorry…-

-Wait…Hold on. If you guys went and changed everything back, did that whole timeline or whatever get erased?-

-Yeah, more or less- Castiel didn't even try to explain.

-So how can he and I remember it?- pushed Sam

-Because I wanted you to remember it-

-Why?- replied Dean

-I wanted you to know who fate really is. She is cruel and capricious-

-Cruel and capricious?- repeated Abaddon, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

-As far as a bitch- Dean added

Abaddon scoffed. -Why are you all so determined to paint her as the villain? You're the ones breaking the rules, justifying your actions as 'free will,' and trampling over countless lives as you go leaving a trail of destruction in your wake.-

-Okay, okay, okay…I see you still have something against us…even Castiel has been thrown out into the pit. We are trying our best here to keep as many people safe as we can, so what is it? What do you want from us? let's get to the bottom of this and fix it once and for all.- called out Dean.

-By fix it, you mean kill it? Destroy it, make it nonexistent…Because you are right, Dean, you need to kill me and kill Castiel…-

-Okay that's enough- intervened Castiel

-We just wanted to talk, Aby,- Abaddon paused, her mocking face softening. Sam continued, -We're trying to give everyone the best ending, not just ourselves. That's why we do this: to help and save as many as we can.- Abaddon met his gaze, recognizing the sincerity in his eyes. Defeated, she relented.

-Come on, Aby…talk to us – come now, Dean. Castiel felt a sharp icicle piercing him for some reason just as soon as the name left Dean's lips.

-What's with all this Abi business?- he interjected, his voice slightly annoyed.

Sam and Dean looked at each other.

-yeah, well, it is just that Abaddon sounds so…hum…loon….-

-Angelic-like…- saved Sam, giving Dean a dismissed look.

-It's the name of an Angel- pointed Castiel.

-Yeah! well…we poor mortals like to cozy up to our friends with shorter… little more down-to-earth names -When Dean said shorter, Sam shook his head negatively as Dean rephrased to down-to-earth names; Sam gave him the thumbs up.

-That is why you are Cas…and Abaddon is…- said Sam

-Aby?- Castiel interrupted and looked around at her. She shrugged her shoulders -Well, I don't like you calling her like that..-he gestured specifically at Dean. He gave a weird look at Sam, and now Sam was the one who shrugged.

-In any case, Abaddon… - Castiel paused, the name sounding unfamiliar on his lips. It felt impersonal and cold. He'd never felt this way before. Clearing his throat, he continued, -They taught me that we can forge our own destiny, that we don't have to be bound by fate. We can choose freedom. I still believe that's worth fighting for. I just wanted you to understand that... all of you, so I chose to leave your memories as they are…-

Abaddon seemed to think about it, not what Castiel was talking about but the whole conversation about names.

-Cas…- she pronounced slowly. Castiel felt the hair on his neck stand as she spoke it -So that's how it is among friends?-

-Yes!- celebrated Sam and Dean -You've got it!-

-So you side with Castiel now?-

-Nop- answered Dean

-But we are here and we can talk about, really talk – saved Sam.

-And you think I am your friend now?- her question came like a bucket full of ice water. But Dean did not give up and came forward.

-yes, and this is what friends do, we talk about our differences and work to solve them…together- he faced her -So let's talk…all us, please!-

-Ha!- she laughed bitterly -You helped me out, and I kept my promise. I brought you to Castiel. Our business is finished…-

She hadn't finished speaking when something struck her. A dark, tendril-like force pierced her chest. Sam, Dean, and Castiel watched in horror as blood pooled around her feet. Castiel lunged forward, a guttural scream tearing from his throat. Sam and Dean collapsed to the ground, their bodies drained of energy. A terrifying silence descended, broken only by the violent storm raging overhead. Lightning cracked across the sky, and the earth trembled.

When the chaos subsided, Sam and Dean found themselves alone in Bobby's backyard. Their limbs felt heavy, their minds numb. Dean's hands shook uncontrollably as he stared at them. Sam was equally shaken, his own hands trembling. They had never felt so helpless, so afraid.

-CASTIEL! ABADDON!- shouted Dean, his voice breaking. There was no answer.

It took several minutes for the brothers to get it together, and when they were finally able to stand up, they dragged their feet back to the house. They felt extenuated.

The house was all dark and quiet. They walked in quietly and found Bobby asleep on the sofa—just him alone as usual.

-I think we better not tell him anything about that other timeline- said Sam

-I agree; he never knew how good he had it, so let's keep it that way- Dean walked up to him, removed the book from his belly, and put a throw over him.

The brothers looked at each other, feeling defeated. It has been a very long day.