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

7. Standing on the edge

Ch.7 Standing on the edge.

Sam, Bobby, and Dean are walking down an alley. They had received a message from Eleonor asking Bobby to meet her at that address. Bobby found it suspicious, so he brought the brothers along. The ally seemed deserted.

- Where is she?- asked Dean impatiently.

Bobby shrugs - She said to meet her here. I'll try her again. -He takes out his cell phone and calls her number. They hear Eleanor's phone ringing from nearby. They see her phone. It's on the ground next to a dumpster. They hurry to it and find Eleanor lying semiconscious on the ground behind the dumpster. She's hurt. Bobby kneels in front of her. Sam and Dean stand behind him.

- El?- Hurried Bobby

- Hey. I guess I could've used your help after all.- she answered weakly, half opening her eyes.

- Just be still.-

- What happened?- asked Sam

- They took me. I got away.- She opens her coat. Her shirt is soaked with blood from her stomach. Her whole body was severely bruised, even her face. She has nasty cuts, a purple eye, and a split lip.

- Oh, Ellie. What have they done to you? -regretted Bobby.

Eleanor chuckles - Everything. The demon I could've handled, but when the angel stepped in, I - she sighs - I told him, Bobby. They have enough to crack Purgatory wide open.-

- Tell me. I need to know.- hurried Bobby.

- They need virgin blood. That's a milk-run for them. And they need the blood of a Purgatory native, and well, they've got plenty of that now.-

- Have they opened it yet?- asked Dean

Eleanor shakes her head - Tomorrow—the moon - an eclipse. I'm sorry, Bobby.-

- No, it's okay. It's okay. -

- I'm sorry, really sorr…-

- Tell us where they are.- said Bobby softly, but it was too late now. Eleanor dies.

- El? – called Bobby. He closes her eyes. Castiel suddenly appears behind Sam and Dean.

- I'm sorry this had to happen.- Castiel apathetically apologized. He didn't look quite right; deep bags were under his eyes, and his hair was messy. His expression was that of a cruel man. Bobby stands up, furious.

- Crowley got carried away.- Castiel explains, looking down at poor Eleonor.

- Yeah, I bet it was all Crowley you son of a bitch!- Bobby tries to go after Castiel, but Sam and Dean restrain him.

-Funny, the hunter feels bad about a monster he did not kill himself…- said a voice, and Abaddon walked out from behind Castiel.

-Dean?- called Sam.- I can see her-

Dean, Bobby, and Sam looked at Abaddon transfixed.

-I can see her too. Didn't you say she was some kind of ghost only you could see?- Bobby asked.

Dean only gave Bobby a confused look. He turned back at Castiel and Abaddon.

-I am glad to see the two of you finally got together – Dean snickered -Are you….- he directed at Abaddon -Are you helping him now?- his voice came raspy.

-Let me ask you something,- Abaddon replied, her voice devoid of any feeling, even the playful edge she usually displayed. This Abaddon was back to her Phoenix-like self. Her hair was ablaze, and her eyes glowed with an eerie harshness. She wore a trench coat similar to Castiel's and kept her hands tucked into the pockets. -In all this time since you found out why he was doing all this, did you include investigating a way to stop Raphael, or did you focus solely on striking down a friend?-

Castiel looked at the hunters. They were all silent, but not for long, at least not for Dean, who was already boiling.

- WE WERE HOPING OUR FRIEND WOULD LISTEN TO US! – corrected Dean and directed at Castiel -You don't even see it, do you? How totally off the rails you are!-

- Enough! What else would you have me do?- Castiel protested.

-Not open the Monster den!- Dean snapped right back.

-So, sit back and quietly die?- intervened Abaddon -That is precisely what Crowley asked you to do regarding Ben and Lisa…How did that go?- Dean's face fell.

-NO! Of course not, but we could try to find another way…together…- now intervened Sam.

-Find a way together?- repeated Abaddon, her voice a monotonous drone- How long do you assume you have? The sole reason why humanity hasn't been wiped out by now is because of Castiel's troops keeping Raphael at bay,…but that number is diminishing by the minute- Abaddon explained. The hunters remained silent, the weight of her words heavy in the air.

- I've tried to make you understand.- Castiel said, his voice steel-hard. -You won't listen. So let me make this simple. Please, go home and let me stop Raphael. I won't ask again.-

That was Castiel's ultimatum. The hunters felt a chill creep down their spines. Never had they seen him so serious. This was beyond his usual stoicism.

- Well, good, 'cause I think you already know the answer.- defied Dean.

Abaddon and Castiel exchanged a glance, then turned back to the hunters. Their faces remained impassive, devoid of any emotion.

-Fine!- Abaddon answered – have it your way – She snapped her fingers, and Eleonor's body floated up. Bobby was horrified. The body burst into flames.

-Tell me, Bobby – continued Abaddon -Is it worth saving this creature?-

The body burns away, leaving behind another individual. It was a beautiful one; a slender lizard-like monster was floating now before then. Her skin is covered with iridescent scales. Her long, wavy hair in a soft blue shade floated like she was underwater. Blood was still spilling out from a long cut in her belly.

-A siren…- mumbled Bobby in disbelief.

-you banged a siren!- admired Dean. Bobby said nothing. The stakes of being with Eleonor have been very high, but he had never imagined this level. Sirens are flesh-eating creatures, very nasty and cruel, mighty too, only rivaled by monsters like Eve. He shouldn't have survived crossing paths with one of them, and yet, he met one, fell in love with one, and walked out of that relationship intact… or at least he thought he had…now he was feeling an aching pain in his chest.

The body moved, floating next to Abaddon now.

-What would you do with her? – asked Bobby, his voice thick with emotion.

-Monsters are monsters- Abaddon stated flatly, her voice like a bucket of ice water. The brothers flinched.

- But now I am curious…- Her voice deepened, a sinister clicking sound emanating from behind. A disturbing smile spread across her face. The hunters felt a chill crawl down their spines, every hair on their necks standing on end. The injury on Eleanor's belly vanished.

Eleonor immediately snapped her eyes open, a look of wild panic in them as she frantically scanned her surroundings. She recognized Castiel standing by.

-NO…- she pleads and tries to escape, but she finds herself floating, unable to move anywhere. She turned around to see Bobby. He was standing there with the most puzzled look she had ever seen on him; he looked lost and confused. But that did not matter, at least not now.

-BOBBY!- she shouted, extending a hand towards him. He walked towards her but then hesitated, frozen in place. Eleanor noticed her hand, now covered in scales. -No...- she whispered, dread washing over her.

Her hair, her face, her entire body had reverted to its original form. She understood Bobby's hesitation. She gave him a desperate look, but she knew better. With a resigned sigh, her eyes lowered in defeat, her body slowly descending towards the ground.

Abaddon gestured for her to run free at the hunters if she wanted to. Castiel is standing silently behind this person. Eleonor held her hands in her chest, her heart beating fast, but she made no attempt to move towards Bobby. She instead looked behind her to the open alley; it was still deserted, and beyond that, there was a world not ready to receive a scaly monster with open arms. She would need a new human suit, but in getting it, most likely, the hunters would get her right back. Eleonor hesitated.

Then, Abaddon extended her other hand at her. Eleonor looked at the person in front of her. She was a monster, too, right? A beautiful one, all surrounded by soft flames. It was warm and cozy just being around her. She has never seen one like her before; it reminds her of the Phoenix. They were beautiful, peaceful creatures until they were hunted to extinction.

Eleonor looked around. The hunters on one side, the angel on another, maybe this being had intervened on her behalf and saved her. She did not know her, but at this point, it looked like her best choice.

Eleonor reached out with a shaky hand.

-EL!- Bobby calls her and walks two steps towards them. His voice broke the spell. Eleonor stopped and looked at Bobby. He had extended a hand to her.

-Let me protect you…- he repeated. Eleonor stared at him and then at the brothers standing behind, hopeful, but then a sad smile drew on her face. To what extent will Bobby be able to protect her? And really, to what end? She was a monster, after all; there were a ton of things he did not know about her yet…It was going back to living in a room full of eggshells, walking ever so carefully so she wouldn't be found out, endless lies and hiding things, that was exhausting, the sole thought was exhausting.

-Bobby, you're just a man. I'm better off protecting myself…- she repeated back and took Abaddon's hand.

-Good luck, hunters…- said Abaddon turning around at them. This was no win she could throw in their faces. Abaddon was disappointed; Eleonor preferred to choose a complete stranger over a former human lover. What has been their story? She pondered.

Bobby had a broken expression. But, Could he blame her? After all, he was a hunter. Bobby withdrew his hand.

Abaddon and Eleonor disappeared, leaving Castiel behind.

Castiel shakes his head - I wish it hadn't come to this. Well, rest assured, when this is all over, I will save Sam, but only if you stand down.-

- Save Sam from what?- but Dean had no time to react. Next thing, Castiel disappears and reappears behind Sam and touches Sam's temple.

Bobby and Dean had rushed Sam to Bobby's panic room. Castiel was finally able to slow the hunters down in one move. The day was now almost over. Dean was frantically looking for a way to help Sam while Bobby tried his best to locate Castiel, mobilizing all his contacts. The full moon was upon them, Sam was still unconscious, and there was no good lead on the angel either.

- Sammy? Come on, snap out of it.- Dean pleaded, slamming the book shut on the floor. He walked towards his brother, kicking aside a pile of books scattered at his feet.

Bobby walks in. -Anything?-

Dean paced around - I can't just sit here, Bobby. I've got to help him, and those darn books don't tell me anything useful.-

- Dean.-

- You know, dreamscape his noggin. Something…-

- You know what Cas did. The dam inside your brother's head is gone, and all hell's spilling loose. We don't knowwhat's going on inside…-

- I don't care. We have got to do something!-

- And we will, but right now, we got sixteen hours 'til they pop Purgatory. I'm down one man. I can't afford to be down two.-

- Yeah, and how's that going, huh? We've got no line on Crowley. We have no line on Cas. Aby is…I don't even know what that was! and Balthazar's MIA. I mean, all we've got is Sam, going through whatever the hell this is!-

- You know,- Bobby turns a glass over and pours a drink- this is exactly what Cas wants. For you to fall to pieces. Just try to think of what Sam would want. - He holds out the drink. Dean pauses before taking it. At that moment, he sees Abaddon walking straight at Sam and kneeling before him. Dean's eyes opened wide.

-What are you doing here?- Dean exploded -Have you come to make a report to your BF or mock us!-

Bobby backed up and looked around -Who are you talking to?- he went fully paranoid.

Dean turned at him dumbfounded, then back at Abaddon and pointed at her, then back at Bobby -You don't see her?- he managed to ask.

-See who? Oh!- Bobby paused -Aby is here? Why can't I see her?-

Now Dean paused. The Aby in the room was the walking-dead-looking Aby. She was no longer a phoenix. Dean took a deep breath, doubted himself for a second, but then opened his hand at Bobby. Bobby looked at it, confused.

-What?-

-Just take it!-

Bobby scoffed and did so. His eyes glimmered gold. In front of him was Abaddon, her hands hovering inches from Sam's head, not touching him. Her eyes closed. Sam took a deep breath and moved his head towards her. He was still unable to open his eyes, and he grunted as he reached out. His hand moved at Abaddon's, a ghostly touch, and yet Sam was able to reach her. A soft, ethereal glow emanated from the point of contact. Dean and Bobby watched, holding their breath.

Sam sighed like he was released from something really painful. His hand felt limp, but he looked now at peace.

Abaddon stood up. She was looking weary.

-My powers are far too weak; I could only provide Sam with a light to navigate the darkness. It will still depend on him whether he can make it back…- she looked at Bobby and Dean standing there holding hands – By the way…you don't need to hold hands. You only need to touch Dean…-

Bobby and Dean looked at each other. Bobby buffed, let go of his hand, and placed it on Dean's shoulder instead, giving Dean a disapproving look.

-What…I…She told me to hold hands with Sam…- Dean explained quickly.

-Never said hold…Anyway, I know where the party is…If you still want to crash it-

Sam was standing by the Impala. He is surrounded by woods. It's pitch dark. He has a light on perched in his jacket. He opens the trunk and finds all kinds of weapons. He takes his pick. A woman joins him. Her name is Robin. She has been with Sam since he woke up in that weird world. He found himself alone with no memories, and Robin was kind enough to offer a ride to the hospital, where he ended up on a quest to search for his lost memories.

Right now, they were in the middle of an empty road. Something had attacked the Impala. There is something in the woods he knows he must meet, so he ventures in.

-Wait in the car – he said to Robin. She obeys.

As Sam courses into the darkness of the woods, Sam saunters with his shotgun aimed, listening carefully to any sound. He is aware that something is preying on him.

He passes the next tree. From behind it, another Sam observes the first one. He stands silently, unnoticed. The lookalike steps out, sneaking up from behind Sam. He presses the muzzle of a gun against Sam's head. Sam whirls around. The lookalike grabs Sam's shotgun and strikes him on the head with the butt of the weapon. He then empties the remaining shells from Sam's shotgun.

- Oh my!. Am I really that gawky? – Scorned the lookalike and threw the shotgun on the ground. - Howdy.- he greeted.

Sam is shocked. -This is impossible- he stares at himself.

- Cold. Try again.- mocked the lookalike.

- I'm uh- I'm hallucinating.-

- Warmer. But see, normally, you're awake when you're tripping balls.-

- I'm dreaming?-

- And someone just won a copy of the home game. We're inside your grapefruit, Sam. Son, you've been juiced.-

- I-I don't remember anything.-

- Well, your BF Cas brought the Hell-wall tumbling down, and you, pathetic infant that you are, shattered into pieces. -the lookalike points at Sam-Piece. -then he points at himself- Piece.-

- I - I have no idea what you're talking about.-

- Why would you? You're jello, pal. Unlike me.-

- What areyou?-

- I'm not handicapped. I'm not saddled with a soul. In fact, I used to skipper this meatboat for a while. It was smooth sailing. I was sharp, strong. That is, 'til they crammed your soul back in. Now look at you. Same misty-eyed milksop you always were. That's because souls are weak. They're a liability. Now, nothing personal, but run the numbers. Someone's got to take charge around here before it's too late. –

Sam was face to face with the soulless part of him, the one that was free first from the Avernus. Soulless Sam cocks his gun. There is a gold glimmer that blinds Soulless Sam, so other Sam takes the chance and runs away. Soulless Sam tries to shoot after Sam but misses.

Sam runs away. He turns off the light in his jacket. He tries his best to mix in the shadows. Soulless Sam is following right behind. He sees the light disappear somewhere, so he stops running and walks carefully, listening to every sound.

Sam readied the pistol he also brought with him and waited.

-Come out, come out, wherever you are.- Soulless Sam's voice echoed through the woods.

Sam hides behind a rock next to a tree near a stream. Soulless Sam appears. Sam ducks and quietly moves away. Soulless Sam sees Sam's jacket behind the rock. He shoots three times. He walks up to the rock and sees that Sam isn't there, only his jacket. Suddenly, Sam, from behind, shoots Soulless Sam. The bullet goes through his chest. Soulless Sam falls to the ground and groans.

-So much at being stronger and sharper – commented Sam

- You thinkI'mbad? Wait 'til you meet the other one.- Soulless Sam laughs. He dies. A bright light comes out of the body, and Sam absorbs it.

The woods were no longer so dark. There was a light, like the approaching of the sunrise. He then walks back to the Impala. All the memories of his time as a soulless being are restored.

In the Panic Room, Sam, still unconscious, convulses.
- Sammy! Sam!- called Dean. He puts a hand on Sam's chest. Sam calms down.

Back in the dreamscape, Sam walks back to the road; he finds Robin waiting for him next to the Impala.

- I remember who I am—everything I did this past year. And I remember you.- Sam said, his voice thick with emotion. She looked at him intently, a knowing smile gracing her lips.

Sam then remembers. Sometime during his soulless year, he was at a bar and had a run-in with a crossroads demon. The demon is holding a terrified Robin with a knife to her neck. Sam approaches with a gun.

- Walk away or the girl dies.- said the demon. Sam had no time for games; he had a bigger fish to fry, so he shot Robin in the stomach. She dies. The demon looks at Sam in shock.

- There goes your leverage.- said Sam coldly and shot the crossroads demon.

Blood seeps through Robin's shirt by her stomach.

- Didn't I tell you to turn back, that you wouldn't like what you found?-

All the time, she has been warning Sam: Going forward would be gruesome.

- I'm sorry. I'm so sorry.- was all Sam could muster.

- Not as sorry as you're gonna be.- Robin disappears. Sam stands alone in the road feeling the weight of his actions, a nod in his throat, that nasty falling feeling in the pit of his stomach.

-Are you ready?- asked another voice. Sam turned around. Abaddon was standing behind him. He can't help it; he rushes to her and hugs her. He was so relieved and happy to finally find a familiar face.

-How are you here?- he said softly as he continued to hug her.

-I am not… I am just a speck of her power trying to reach you…Trying to shed some light on your path…-

Sam took a deep breath and let go -Thank you… Truly…- Sam smiled, and so did Abaddon.

With part of his memories restored, Sam now knew that itwas imperative he wake up. His brother was alone facing Castiel; he needed to return as soon as possible.

-The last piece is the one that was locked away – Abaddon continued and extended a hand to Sam – If you can successfully assimilate it, you will be back, but there will be a price to pay.-

Sam looked at her hand; there was conviction in his eyes. He took her hand. They both disappeared.

Back at Bobby's panic room. Dean sits near Sam with a glass of whisky in his hand.

- Balthazar is coming. He will take you there…- had said Abaddon

-Wait! You're leaving?- Dean asked

-Don't miss me so much…- Abaddon joke, but Bobby had noticed it.

-Why are you fading away?- he asked and Dean peeled his eyes. He just noticed Abaddon's edges were dissolving in something like a soft grey dust.

Abaddon smiled at Dean, who was catching on. -This was a limited ticket…The magic will dispel at midnight…- she explained.

-You…What are you saying? She said she was a ghost…- Dean turned at Bobby, confused.

-I know, you both repeated it like mindless parakeets all this time, and I let you because…I didn't know better myself but think about it…Ghost comes from human souls. Angels don't have souls…-

Dean felt silent. He and Sam had talked about it. They both reach an impasse they couldn't explain. Dean looks at Abaddon for answers.

-I just used a familiar figure to try to explain a situation that is far, much more complicated…-

-Where are you now?- Dean interrupted.

-I am right here… But I am guessing you are asking about my other self…- The hunters were listening attentively. -Like Sam…I also broke into pieces. I needed to put myself back together…- and with that, she disappeared.

Dean takes a sip and sighs. -Sam is broken…and so is she?- he murmured.

- Look what the cat dragged in.- Bobby announced walking in. Dean quickly stood up and went to Bobby. He was standing by the door with Balthazar just outside of the Panic Room.

- Well, at least you mudfish finally got the angel-proofing right. -he points to Sam- How's Sleeping Beauty? You didn't steal any kisses, I trust?-

- Why? Would that make you jealous? What the hell took you so long? -protested Dean and walked up to Balthazar.

- Do you ever worry about who you are going against, you ram-head?

- Why would I? Is just a waste of time, and YOU, my friend, are making us waste ours…- snapped Dean

- Ha! So I joined the dead squad...Seriously starting to regret that…-

-Ow! Don't be a party pooper- mocked Bobby – The gathering is about to start. All the cool cats will be there, you don't want to disappoint the prince now…-

-Oh! Gosh darn it all, you are even making tacky jokes when you are about to turn on one of the most powerful beings…-

- Are you yellow? - Dean mocked and crossed his arms.

- Ha! Fine... -Balthazar pulls out a piece of paper and hands it to Dean.- Cas and Crowley are there. That's where the show gets started.-

- Alright, well, give us a minute to pack up and then zap us there.- said Dean enthusiastically

- Oh, no, no, no, no. I don't think so.-

- Balthazar…this is nowhere near, we will never…- Bobby started but was interrupted.

- I'm betraying a friend here—a very powerful friend. Catch a plane, I don't care. Maybe you two humans don't have a concept of the meaning of betrayal and powerful in the same sentence. But, at least to angels, this is no joke- the hunters had never seen Balthazar so serious -I think I've stuck my neck out far enough already. Good luck!-

But Dean's hand rushed to Balthazar's chest before he could disappear. Both Dean and Balthazar looked at each other, terribly confused. Bobby was right behind with a lost expression. Balthazar's eyes glimmered gold.

-Hi Balthazar!- exclaimed a voice right next to him.

Dean and Balthazar turned around to see Abaddon smiling at them, holding Dean's hand up to Balthazar.

-Aby?- Balthazar barely whispered her name when Abaddon reached at his lips. It looked like she was going for a kiss, but instead, she was hijacking him.

-OH MY…You can take over angels!- exclaimed Dean, half disgusted, half amused, taking his hand off as quickly as he could.

-WHAT?- exclaimed Bobby -What happened?-

Balthazar turned greyish, and all his being became ashy. His wings extended. They were beautiful, not as big as Castiel's, but nevertheless, black and gorgeous. One of them was crooked like it healed wrong. His eyes opened; they were white for some reason. He spoke with both Abaddon's and Balthazar's voices.

-Is not going to last long, so I suggest if you really want the ride to get moving-

Meanwhile, Castiel sits alone in an empty, quiet, clean room. Crowley walks in carrying a jar of blood.

- Your Purgatory power-shake, Monsieur. -He gives it to Castiel.- Half monster, half virgin like you ordered…-

- Thank you.- he simply said.

- You seem even more constipated than usual. Maybe get you some Colon blow?- joked Crowley.

In truth, Castiel looked like he was deteriorating. His skin was cinder-like like he was extinguishing. The blue in his eyes was of a misty white. He smiled at Crowley and stood up.

- I'm renegotiating our terms.- he announced, and from behind, Castiel walked out of Abaddon, the phoenix.

-Who is this? -asked Crowley; he instinctively backed up. He could feel it; there was something very wrong with that monster, or was it a monster at all?

-Mind me, I haven't formally introduced you…Abaddon, Crowley…-

-Abaddon?- Crowley recognized the name – I thought you were looking for an angel!- he demanded, outraged.

Castiel looked at Crowley, confused. He turned at Abaddon – I don't think I gave you a wrong descript…-

-THAT IS NOT AN ANGEL- Crowley shouted nervously -What are you playing at Castiel?- he hissed at them. Then he noticed. Abaddon was sinestry smiling at him. He knows these smiles better. Wasn't he the one who invented them? The betrayal smiles.

He dodges just in time out of the way of a dagger coming at his back. But he was not quick enough; the dagger cut the flesh on his arms. Blood was spilled on the floor. Before him, a mermaid-like creature stood, branding the bloody knife.

-Payback time…- the creature said. Crowley recognized the voice.

-The purgatory woman!- he managed to say before Eleonor jumped at him in an attack. Despite his looks, Crowley is a highly experienced fighter; he is able to evade Eleonor's attacks and deflect some. But Eleonor is an ancient monster with plenty of experience as well.

She manages to plunge the dagger into Crowle's arm as he is defending himself. He shouts in angry pain. He then quickly slaps Eleonor, throwing her away with brute force. She recoils and is back on her feet quickly. They looked at each other.

- I am renegotiating the terms Crowley – intervened Castiel -You get nothing. Not one single soul.-

Crowley buffed - I can't help but noticethat; it seems a bit unfairly weighted. -Castiel said nothing; he just smiled at Crowly with that same smile Abaddon was giving him.- Castiel. You wouldn't dare. I brought you this deal.- Crowley stated, his voice sounding a bit nervous.

- I know, and I appreciate the inside…- he replied dryly.

- Unbelievable. Have you forgotten that you're the bottom in this relationship?-

- I am the bottom? Ha! Take a good look…- he gestured at the room. -Here are your options. You either flee, or you die.-

- We made a pact. EvenIdon't break contracts like this.-

-A pact?- asked Eleonor – you kiss a demon?- she asked Castiel. Abaddon looked at Castiel, interested.

-NO…I….We talked about it that was all- Castiel protested -Nothing happened…- ha assure at Abaddon.

-You gave me your word- Crowley protested right back, a hurt tone coming as well unintentionally.

-When did I give you my word?- confronted Castiel – Think about it: I started to work with you, yes, but I don't remember ever signing a contract or agreeing to your terms. I am trying to save Earth, not to create a bigger problem.-

Crowley reached in a second inside of his coat. He was about to pull his gun out when he noticed. Abaddon's gold eyes were glued to his every move. She did not look afraid or even concerned; she was smiling at him.

Everything went into slow motion. Crowley pulled his anti-angel. As he is in motion he sees Castiel and Eleonor's eyes turned at him. They are both smiling. It was like the whole thing was a big joke to them. But, the Lord of the underworld would prevail! He thought to himself. He focuses on Castiel. He will take him down, at least.

Suddenly, he hears a nasty slash, and his arm floats away from him as soon as he extends it with the weapon. Abaddon was standing next to him. Her angel sword was dripping in blood.

Crowley is horrified. He didn't even see her move. He holds his severed arm. But there was no scream, nor shout. It was a roar that he led out so strong that it shook the whole building.

He was calling his minions but no one came. Suddenly he is thrown to the floor. He is under Abaddon's foot. His blood spilled everywhere. He grunts.

-Tsk, tsk – Eleonor sank to her knees, her gaze unwavering– You seriously thought I was here for fun? No demon will come to your aid…- she laughed, it was more like a metallic cackle– this place Is now demon-proofed – she stood up and paced in front of him-…not only that – she gestured at the floor. Crowley manages to see he is in part of a demon trap sigil. The mark had been drawn on the floor, with even him not noticing. Abaddon pushed him further into it.

Crowley scoffs - Boy, just can't trust anyone these days.- he drags his other hand in front of him; he has been keeping something concealed in it. A smoke bomb explodes as he lets go of it. Castiel dissipated the smoke quickly, but Crowley had already fled.

Sam walks into Bobby's house; the furniture is covered in white sheets. There are candles almost everywhere; Abaddon had disappeared. He had to do this alone, but her light was still with him; the room was mostly dark. The windows are covered with wood planks. So, there was little of that sunrise light filtering in.

Sam walks to Bobby's study. He approaches the desk, where someone is sitting, their face hidden in the shadows.

- Hey!- called Sam

-Oh. Hi, Sam- the shadow greeted back, his voice very weak.

- So, you are the last one?-

- Yes, and the least one, I am afraid- The shadow stands up. His face is bruised and bloody. His clothes are rags. Deep despair in his eyes. This Sam looked weak and very pale. Sam backs up, dreading his approach - I'm the one that remembers Hell.- the other Sam says.

Bobby is packing a bag, including a flask of holy water and two angel blades. He takes the bag and starts to walk out.

- Time's up, Dean.- called Bobby.

- Yeah, just a second.- Dean is standing over Sam. He kneels next to him with the piece of paper. - Alright, this is where we're gonna be, Sam. You get your lazy ass out of bed and come and meet us. Sammy, please.- Dean gets up, puts the paper down next to Sam with a gun on top of it, and leaves.

- I wish you hadn't come, Sam.- said the other Sam, the wounded one.

- I had to… I'm here, right? Out there in the real world, I'm at Bobby's, aren't I?-

- How do you know?-

- This whole time, I've smelt nothing but Old Spice and Whisky…-

-Correct…- wounded Sam answered slowly. He seemed distracted by the light in Sam's chest. His eyes fixed on it with an almost hungry intensity. Wounded Sam dragged his feet towards the light, his eyes closed, seemingly allowing himself to be drawn towards it. -You need to go through me first...- he said tire.

-Why?-

- Humpty Dumpty has to put himself back together again before he can wake up. And I'm the last piece.-

- Which means, -Sam steps closer- I have to know what you know. What happened in the cage?-

- It was okay when you had that wall…You could live a life in blissful ignorance, but now that there is no wall, you will need this useless me of a piece to become whole again, in the end, I am still a part of you, but…Trust me, you don't want this knowledge….-

- I know…I can feel it…I am dreading you... But Dean….-

- Sam, you can't imagine. It would be so much better If you stay even like this.- Sam observed himself, the part of him that was broken. All the time they were talking, his other self never ceased to bask in the light he was carrying. His eyes closed, shuffling like he was hearing a lullaby. He had a smile, a sad smile. He looked like he had been cold for ages, and the sun was finally melting his skin through that tiny light.

Sam exhales – A vegetable? You know that's not an option. I'm not leaving my brother alone out there.-

Other Sam scoffs – I know…Then brace yourself -

Wounded Sam walks slowly towards Sam, and Sam instinctively goes into defense mode.

- I'm not gonna fight you. -wounded Sam smiled – There is something that has called my attention, and I want it- he said, his hand reaching the light perched at Sam's pocket.

-Do you know what this is?- Sam raised his hand the light

-Yes…No…- wounded Sam was staring at it spellbound – It feels warm…safe…-

-I know – murmured Sam, taking the light off – her name is Abaddon. You never had the chance to meet her being impressioned behind that wall like you were…I am sorry… – Sam placed the light on his wounded counterpart.

His face lit up, his eyes fluttering closed as the warm light enveloped him. The sight of his own profound and unexpected pain was overwhelming to Sam. He couldn't help it. Tears welled up in his eyes, and he embraced himself tightly.

-It's going to be all right- Sam whispered.

-No, is not- cried wounded Sam hugging him back - Goodspeed…-

A bright light comes from his body, and Sam absorbs him. It was finally daylight in Sam's dream.

Inside the Panic Room, Sam convulses.

Meanwhile, outside Crowley's lab, Balthazar, highjacked by Abaddon, Bobby, and Dean, appeared. The place seemed deserted. Balthazar puts his hand on his temple.

-Something wrong?- asked Bobby

-I am going in…Castiel has summoned Balthazar…-

-Wait- Dean had gripped Balthazar's arm. He had a bad feeling, and Bobby did too.

Abaddon/Balthazar smiled – The place is empty; all demons had escaped…- they explained.

-What? Why?- Bobby asked.

-Angels are coming…-

-And.. that's not good?- Dean asked confused. Abaddon/Balthazar stared at him.

-Because is the other angels…- concluded Bobby -Raphael is coming-

-What?-

Abaddon/Balthazar looked up at the sky. It was a clear open sky. The stars were out, perfect for an eclipse. -It seems to me this is about to become a war zone…Maybe not the best place for humans – A chilling smile touched their lips as they surveyed the hunters, their eyes gleaming with an unsettling light. -I wouldn't blame you if you wished to reconsider your presence here…-

-NO- Dean said firmly -We will stop Castiel or Raphael or whoever is there trying to open that stupid doo…-

Dean could not finish his sentence. Abaddon/Balthazar grabbed him by the face until they squeezed his check and neared him -Stop being weird- they whispered. Dean pushed them away.

-You are the one being weird! Just look at you; you are possessing an angel…AN ANGEL- he protested. They laugh.-Why are you even answering his call for? How are you going to explain the sudden new dead-look style?-

Abaddon/Balthazar looked at himself. Suddenly, there was a series of cracking nasty noises, and his wings disappeared. He looked now like he was having the worst day of his life: Crazy eyes, messy hair, pasty skin, deep black bags under his eyes.

-Oh gosh!- Bobby turned around in defeat.

-This is not going to work, – Dean said with the utmost worry.

-Sorry, I may be losing control, but if I don't go, it will be worse…You will find Castiel in the main laboratory; just as you enter the main door, follow the signs.- And with that Abaddon/Balthazar disappeared.

-Well…- Bobby came to his side – So, nobody is guarding this home. I said, let's raid it now before the main party starts…-

Just as they started to walk to the laboratory, a bunch of people suddenly appeared from nowhere. Angels were everywhere, floating or on the ground. The whole building was suddenly occupied.

- Balls!.- Bobby exclaimed, backing Dean to the nearest shadow.

- Demons?- asked Dean.

- Angels.-

- Well, how the hell are we gonna take out that many angels?-

- We don't. We'll ninja our way in.-

- Awesome. Yeah, 'til they hear your knee squeak.-

- Shut up...- Bobby complained and suddenly went quiet. He got distracted by something else.

- Oh, what, now you got thin skin?- joke Dean.

- No, shut up. You hear that?-

There is a loud, repetitive thumbing sound, almost like the footsteps of a giant. Dean and Bobby listen carefully. They turn around.

- What the hell is that? -Dean sees ripples in a puddle of water nearby. - T-Rex, maybe?-

The noise gets louder. Bobby looks up. -Holy mother of…-

A large cloud of demons and angels approaches.

- Get cover! Get cover!- urged Dean, and they both dived into the nearbybushes by the fences of the building. The demon smoke flips everything upside down, passing by like an angry tornado,andclashes with the building. With the angels that were waiting there. A massive carnage starts.

Inside, Castiel is looking at the paper with the ritual incantation written on it. Phoenix Abaddon, Balthazar/Abaddon, and Eleonor are standing by.

They hear the commotion outside. Screams and fighting shouts erupt, followed by an ominous silence. Suddenly, the room is plunged into darkness as Crowley appears before them. his arm restored.

- Never underestimate the king of Hell, darling. I know a lot of swell tricks. Now, I think it's time to re-negotiate our terms.- claimed Crowley.

Castiel disappears and reappears behind Crowley. Crowley turns around. Castiel puts his hand on Crowley's forehead. Nothing happens.

- Sweaty hands, mate.- mock Crowley

- I don't understand.- Castiel back up.

- You can palm me all you want. I'm safe and sound under the wing of my new partner. -Said Crowley, victorious, as he gestured to the right, where Raphael appeared in a female vessel.

- Hello, Castiel.- greeted Raphael

- Hello yourself – intervened Phoenix Abaddon. Raphael turned to see her standing by with Balthazar; he was looking very odd and decomposed from his usual self. That much, Raphael could tell. Not having pupils was disturbing. And there was someone else, something like a glorified lizard was also standing next to them. Raphael's smile fell.

-Still alive I see- Raphael turned and snapped at Crowley – You never said she was here.-

-Was I supposed to? Who is she anyway?- Crowley looked around confused -well look, there is that looking-dead-angel (you…- he turned at Balthazar- you look awful disturbing by the way…kudos) and…that purgatory creature helping Castiel….Was I supposed to mention everyone? Because there were thousands just outside, I believe we just crushed our way in-

Raphael hissed at Crowley but said nothing else.

- Consorting with demons. I think I might have started a trend…- intervened Castiel smiling at Raphael.

- Heardyouwere having so much fun, so I decided to give it a try.- replied Raphael -Starting to regret it tho…It was overrated- She turned to Crowley, who hissed back.

Raphael turned back at Castiel; he was looking off as well, not as much as Balthazar, but nevertheless, his milky eyes and disordered look were unnerving. He glanced back at Abaddon, who remained eerily calm, a predatory smile playing on her lips. Raphael's knuckles whitened as he clenched his fist.

- You know, Castiel y-you've said all sorts of shameful, appalling, scatological things about Raphael. I-I've found him, her, to be really quite reasonable.- Crowley walked away towards Raphael. Raphael gave him a disdainful look.

- You fool. You jumped from the pan to the flames.- Castiel retorted.

- Right, right, 'cause you're such a straight shooter. She, he, has offered me protection against all comers.-

- Protection? In exchange for this?- Castiel pointed at the jar with blood for the ritual.

- The Purgatory blood. Well yes! A small price for all the benefits-

Raphael clicks tongue - Castiel, you really think I would let you open that door? Take inthatmuch power? If anyone is going to be the new God, it's me.- proclaimed Raphael, her voice filling the place. In an instant, the air shimmered and distorted. Thousands of angelic wings and a blinding cascade of white erupted from the very fabric of reality. A horde of demons materialized from the shadows, their eyes burning with malevolent glee. Crowley, ever the opportunist, let out a low, appreciative chuckle, his gaze fixed on Eleonor, who stood amidst the chaos; her expression remained impassive.

Raphael looked around victoriously, finding Abaddon last. But then Raphael noticed that none of them looked one bit concerned.

- He's gonna bring the Apocalypse, and worse.- warned Castiel at Crowley.

- Hey, this is your doing, mate. I'm merely grabbing the best offer on the table. Now, you have two options. – said Crowley in a deep, mocking voice- Flee, or die.-

The lunar eclipse begins.

Outside the building, Dean regains consciousness. - Bobby. Bobby?- he called, searching around the debris. The passing of that cloud was like a furious tornado. Everything was wiped out.

Dean stood up to find the facility in shambles. Bobby wakes up somewhere. Dean hears him coughing.
- Come on, we gotta go.- he urged, dragging Bobby out from under some tree branches and rubbles. -Something must have happened, Abaddon…I mean, Balthazar never came back- Dean informed him.

They looked around only to find angels and demons dead; the place was bathed in blood, andblack wings stamped all over the place. The laboratory looks abandoned and ominous.

Bobby and Dean had no problem navigating now the empty facility. They follow Abaddon's instructions, and in no time, they reach the main laboratory. At every turn, they only found one massacre after another. The amount of destruction and the death toll was unbearable.

Dean and Bobby approached the laboratory. A shiver ran down Dean's spine, and Bobby's face grimed, mirroring his unease. They heard nothing as they pressed the closed doors. They heard intently, but only silence met them. No reassuring hum of machinery, no comforting sound of human activity. Just an eerie stillness.

With a shared glance, they both agreed and pushed the door open wide at the same time. The levels of fear went to the roof.

They step into the most disturbing room in the whole facility. It was squeaky clean, strangely devoid of life. The floor was torn up, revealing screws that probably held some heavy furniture in place, but now there was nothing. It seemed as if everything had been pulled out cleanly.

At the very back, the sigil to open Purgatory was painted on the wall, but it appeared dormant as if nothing had happened. The eclipse had long passed, and the moon shone quietly through the shattered crystal ceiling. Cold night air filled the chillingly empty space.

-What happened?- whispered Bobby as they both carefully walked inside the place.

-Castiel?- called Dean, half whispering. There was no answer.

-Cas? Aby?- called now Bobby a little bit louder but not too much.

They walked to the sigil. It was still fresh on the wall. They looked at each other, confused.