The Long Road Home, Spoiler: Takes Place after 5.02

[Raven524]

Okay, here is the next story. I’ve actually got a few chapters in as this was part of what I originally had written in When Tomorrow Comes. It will probably be AU in a few weeks, but who knows? So should I continue?





Disclaimer: I still don’t own Supernatural or its characters. I and am not making any money on this…I’m just having fun!

Summary: WARNING SPOILERS: This is kind of a sequel to my previous story when tomorrow comes and may include things from 5.01 and 5.02. As Dean walked away he convince himself that his brother would be fine, but would he?

Raven 524: We all know the boys will get back together eventually. But being impatient I decided to speed the process up. This is my take on what happens after 5.02. Tissues ready?

The Long Road Home



Chapter 1 – Road to Nowhere


The phone rang shrilly and then stopped. A long arm reached out and picked up the offending instrument as the half awake man stared at the caller id. For a moment, there had been hope in the hazel eyes but it was soon dashed as the name Bobby Singer flashed on the display. Sam Winchester replaced the phone on the old nightstand and rose from the bed.

This hotel was pretty much the same as the others he’d stayed in since he left Dean over a month ago. At first they had kept in touch using the phone. Frequent calls were made just to assure each other that everything was fine. But soon the calls had thinned out and Sam was left tracking his brother through their friend Bobby Singer and the local news reports.

He had tried calling Dean a few times, but other than leaving a message that he was okay along with his current location there was little else to say. It was like calling their Dad; messages were left but never returned. He understood his brother was busy. It seemed every day another outbreak of craziness appeared in the news. Most people just thought it was part of life, but Sam knew different.

The latest outbreak of violence had occurred in a hospital. A doctor had walked in one day and shot up the emergency room. According to the news one of the people waiting in the ER had managed to distract the doctor long enough so that most of the people got out. A few still had died but all of them praised the man who put his life in jeopardy to save them. Afterwards the mysterious hero had disappeared. The police reported the doctor had died when he placed the gun to his own head and took his life. It was random violence that had no meaning except to the one who had released this on the world; a sure sign that the demons were gaining in number and strength and Sam had walked away from it all.

He knew the mysterious stranger and for a brief moment wondered why Dean was at the ER. However the fact his brother had managed to walk out of the hospital was a good sign he hadn’t been seriously injured. He had to believe the oldest Winchester showed up based on a lead rather than the need for care. It was the hardest part of their separation. Memories of his youth that were spent in similar hotel rooms waiting for his father and brother to return haunted him. The isolation, the fear that one day the door would remain closed and they’d be gone was just as alive today as it had been then. The only difference was the door may never open for him again even though his brother was very much alive.

At the time it seemed the only thing to do. War, one of the four horsemen had hit too close to home when he’d pointed out the flaw in Sam’s logic. His powers, his abilities were not the way even though he still felt like they could be used for good. The price for the few lives he had managed to save was too steep. He looked down and winced as he thought for a moment he could see the blood of all those who now suffered on his hands. He had been a liability on their last hunt together. He was so busy trying to prove he wasn’t affected by the demon blood that he lost sight of what was important. He pushed back when his brother raised the question of his ability to fight the very thing that called to him. In the end, he knew he’d made the right decision.

The young hunter stood and moved towards the coffee maker in the room. He paused and looked out the window into the dark night. Soon he would leave to put Mrs. Harrison to rest. The pesky ghost had been killing any man who stayed overnight in her home. Apparently she had been killed by a cheating husband who then set up house with his new mistress. He had been the first victim.

As he stirred his coffee his mind wandered back to the first night after he’d left Dean. He had no plan when he left other than to get as far away from his brother as possible. The farther he was, the harder it would be for him to give into his need to crawl back and beg Dean to forgive him. Those first few days had been the hardest. Alone with his sins and no one to talk to had pushed him to the brink of destruction. He could still feel the weight of the gun in his hand as he sat on the bed one night and thought about leaving permanently. After all, he never should have been brought back the first time right?

But a voice in the back of his mind, his brother’s voice called him a coward. It was too easy to use the gun. He didn’t deserve to have any peace while there was so much turmoil still going on. So he’d put the gun back in the duffle and started off on his current path. He researched for hunts that didn’t involve demons. It was the least he could do since ghosts and other supernatural creatures hadn’t quit just because the end of the world was at hand. It gave him a purpose and he told himself in a way it was helping his brother in the only way he could.

He cringed as he remembered their last conversation. It had been a month and he’d already had a number of successful hunts under his belt. He’d been feeling whole again except for one thing. He missed his brother more than he could bear. He remembered picking up the phone, his stomach in knots as he dialed Dean’s number.

“Hey Sammy, are you okay?” Dean’s voice came over the phone.

“Yeah, the poltergeist didn’t want to go but I only got a few bruises…” Sam replied as he walked across the carpet.

“Good, good. So where are you off to next?” Dean asked.

“Well, I was thinking Dean….” Sam began.

“You know you think too much Sammy…” Dean’s easy response came through the line and for a moment the young hunter felt something melt. It was the way his brother used to talk to him.

“Right, well I was wondering where you were at?” Sam heard the slight pause on the other end before Dean replied.

“I’m on my way to Oregon. Rufus has seen some omens and I thought I’d check them out.”

“So why don’t I join you Dean. I mean, it’s been a whole month and…” Sam stopped as he heard a soft sigh on the other end of the phone.

“Look Sam, I know you’ve been doing good. I mean, Bobby has told me all the things you’ve hunted and I’m really proud of you little brother.” Dean paused again.

“But you don’t want me back…” Sam finished his voice breaking.

The silence on the phone was Sam’s answer but his brother replied after a few moments. It was clear he was picking his words carefully and trying not to hurt Sam. But the silence had been like a knife to the heart. “Sam, now just isn’t a good time okay. You’re doing good and I know Bobby has told you he can put you in contact with Ellen. She’d be glad to hunt with you until we can meet up…”

“But now isn’t the time…” Sam said quietly as the tears fell down his cheek. Dean continued to offer him hope that one day they could be together again but he never told him what he needed to do to make it happen. Before his brother could continue he decided to finish the call. “It’s okay Dean, I understand. I won’t ask again. You let me know when you’re ready. I’ll call you next week. Stay safe big brother.”

“You too Sammy…” Dean’s voice sounded almost as choked on the other end.

Sam shook himself from the unpleasant memory. There wasn’t time for him to wallow in self pity. It was time for him to get a move on and get rid of the ghost. Then he’d move on to the next hunt and hope that somehow, someday it would be enough to convince his brother he was worth his trust again.

ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Dean shook Ellen’s hand off as she tried to finish stitching up the wound on his arm. The possessed doctor had interrupted just before it had been his turn to get treatment for the knife wound on his arm. The only reason he’d agreed to go there was Ellen’s threat to call Bobby on him and he didn’t feel like dealing with his old friend.

The wound was deep and was infected, a fact that was supported by the burning heat racing through his body. He needed antibiotics and the ER had been the closest supply. So while he sat there counting the tiles on the ceiling and trying to ignore the fussy infant in the corner he’d been unprepared for the doctor who calmly walking in with a shot gun in his hands.

It was only the fact that the demon hadn’t recognized him at first that gave him the element of surprise. He walked up to the possessed man and doused him with holy water before grabbing the gun. He yelled at the others to run and get out but before everyone could leave the doors slammed shut and he had been faced with the demonic dark eyes.

“Winchester, what a prize. To think I’ll be the one to get the bounty on your head.” Dean smiled as he turned to face the demon.

“So what! You get 72 virgins or something? I hope you also asked for the bridal suite…” The demon moved towards him but Dean already had his gun out and aimed. But before he could shoot, he was slammed against a wall. As his vision cleared, he heard the sound of gun shots and screaming. Everyone in the room had been killed and now the gun was aimed at Dean.

“You can’t save them Dean, when are you going to accept defeat?” the demon said smugly as it approached the hunter.

Dean charged the demon and knocked it down. “Not today you son of a bitch! Today, you die.” Before the demon could get up he finished it off with the demon blade he always carried with him. The shocked look on the man’s face as the light blazed around him was satisfaction enough for the hunter.

Knowing that too many people had seen him, Dean quickly picked up the gun and without thought placed it under the man’s chin and pulled the trigger. It would hide the knife wound and hopefully the police would just write it off as a suicide and not investigate further. Wiping the knife, he quickly put in its sheath before he exited the emergency room. He blended in with the crowds as the police arrived and then melted away.

This is why he was now sitting in a hotel room with Lizzy Borden who was trying to sew up his infected arm. He could have been lying in a nice hospital bed with a pretty nurse giving him a sponge bath instead. “Ow!” Dean cried out as a stitch caught more skin.

“I said hold still Dean. I swear you’re worse than your Daddy!” Ellen smiled softly as she continued to sew.

Dean took another sip of whiskey before he replied. “Well at least I know where Jo got her bedside manner from…”

A sharp slap to his head made him hide his own grin. A moment later a couple of pills were placed in the palm of his hand. “Next time I send you to get some antibiotics, maybe you should try the normal way and actually get treated instead of taking a demon down and lifting the drugs.”

“I’ll try to remember that…” Dean grimaced as the bandage was finally taped in place. He kicked off his boots and stretched out on the bed. His eyes were half closed when Ellen’s voice sounded at his ear.

“So do you want me to tell Sam? I’m sure he’s gonna see it on the news and wonder if you were hurt.” Dean opened one eye and gazed at the woman before he closed it again. Ellen knew what had happened and surprisingly she had not been shocked. She hadn’t condemned his brother either which was why he called her when he found himself too injured to help himself. He steered clear of all the other hunters because he didn’t want to answer the obvious question of where his brother was at and why they no longer hunted together.

“No, I heard the report Ellen. They said the hero walked away. He’ll know…”

A soft sigh sounded before he heard the woman rise and walk towards the door. “I’m going to get some supplies and then I’ll be back to check on you. Stay in bed and don’t move you hear me?”

“Yes, I’ll be good…” Dean replied as he felt himself drifting. He never felt the covers being drawn up or feel the light hand that touched his forehead before a cool rag took its place.

His mind however didn’t shut off. A twinge of guilt surfaced when he thought about his last conversation with Sam. He had been expecting the question and even thought he had figured out how to handle it but in the end all he had done was hurt his brother again. He still remembered the wounded look when he agreed that Sam and he should part ways. It had been one of the hardest things he’d ever done, letting his brother go.

The truth was he had been thinking the same thing as his brother. He’d meant it when he said he couldn’t be worrying about Sam while he hunted. A divided mindset was dangerous and could ultimately get both of them killed. Until Sam was free from the addiction, he would have to worry that the temptation was too great for his little brother to resist. At first the phone calls had been enough. It helped him keep tabs on his sibling and allayed his fears that he was hurt or dying someplace. It also let him know his brother was not sitting in some bar or lonely hotel room wasting away from his guilt.

No Sam had managed to pick himself up and start hunting again. It was something Dean was proud of and had told his brother often. But then the dreaded question came up and he’d blown it. He could hear the pain in Sam’s voice and knew he’d hurt him again. It was the reason he no longer took his brother’s calls but relied on voice mail and Bobby to keep him in touch. He felt bad because he could hear the need in the message, but if he talked to Sam he’d have to tell him he still wasn’t ready.

[i[“So when are you gonna let the kid off the hook Dean?” Bobby’s voice echoed in the darkness of his mind.

“It’s only been a couple of months Bobby. You know how many demons I’m facing, how can I put him in that position? It would be like me putting him in a bar if he was an alcoholic. No, I won’t do that to him again.”

“You keep pushing him away and eventually he will get the message you don’t want him back. You do plan on bringing him back don’t you?”

“Of course I do, it’s just—I have to be sure. I can’t just think of him now, I have to think about people who might get hurt if I give in to what I really want. I did that once before and look at where we are now Bobby.”

A sigh filled the air as the sound of wheels on the hardwood floor sounded. “You both did the best you could. I ‘aint sayin’ you both weren’t idjits but you both were brought back and that has to mean something.”[/i]

Dean started and opened his eyes. His fever had finally broken but the emptiness that had been inside him since Sam walked away was still there. He saw the bag of food on the table, a sign that Ellen had come and gone. He decided it was time to get up and showered. He didn’t have time to feel sorry for what could have been—he had to deal with what was going on now. The only thing that kept him going was the knowledge that Sam was somewhat safe and some day he would figure out a way to bring him home.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Sam sat at the bar and stared into the amber liquid in the glass in front of him. It was funny how old habits died hard. After many hunts he and Dean had hit bars much like this one to relax and increase their cash flow. He didn’t need the cash right now but the noisy bar patrons reminded him he wasn’t totally alone.

The salt and burn had gone easy for a change with only a brief tussle that ended up with some minor bruising. It would have been better if he’d had some backup but then he’d gotten used to working alone—again. Besides his father had done it for years and he was every bit his father’s son. It was just the time in between he was having difficulty with. He couldn’t team up with anyone else even if he wanted to. How would he explain the absence of his brother?

No, he was left with just his own thoughts and regrets most of the time. So he came to a bar and blended in with the others who were just seeking refuge from life for a short time. He jumped as a hand landed on his shoulder.

“Sam Winchester?”

Sam placed a hand on the knife he always kept concealed in his jacket as he turned slowly. Recognition brought relief but also concern. “Wade Tucker, what are you doing here?”

“I got a lead on a demon that’s causing some problems not far from here. Just stopped in to get a quick pick me up before I moved on. Where’s your brother?” Wade looked around for a moment before his gaze landed back on Sam.

“He’s on another hunt. We’ve been splitting our resources—covering more ground.” Sam said softly as he turned back to the bar and grabbed his drink. He had to get out of here, pack and move on. It wouldn’t do to stick around. He’d hunted with Wade once while Dean had been down under and knew he was a good man. Still, he couldn’t get past the dread of his secret getting out. Once hunters knew that Lilith didn’t break the final seal both he and Dean would be on the top of the most wanted list.

It was a measure of how much Bobby Singer was trusted in the hunting world. He told everyone what happened except for the part that Lilith was the final seal and that Sam was the one who opened the doorway. He had told the boys no good would come of it and in a way that is what happened. So other than Ellen, no one else knew exactly what went down that day. Even when demons told hunters of Sam’s role, all Bobby had to do was confirm it was a lie and it was accepted. Sam was jerked from his thoughts as Wade continued.

“So how about you team up with me? I could use some help tracking this son of a bitch down.” Wade took a sip from his beer and leaned back against the bar.

“I don’t know, I’m supposed to meet up with Dean…” Sam hedged.

“I’m sure he’d understand. Besides last I heard he was with Ellen working that demon doctor thing. He was a little dinged but I understand he’s on the mend and should only be laid up a couple of days. While he’s resting you could help me out. So what do you say?” Sam shrugged and tried to pretend the information didn’t hurt. He should have been there to take care of Dean, not Ellen.

“Sam? Is something wrong?” Wade looked concerned.

“Huh, no—just thinking I need to check up on him to see if he’s following Doc Ellen’s orders.” Sam grinned but the smile didn’t reach his eyes.

Wade laughed. “Knowing that brother of yours, she’s had to hog tie him to keep him down.”

Sam nodded in agreement. “So what do you say Sam?”

Sam drank the rest of his whiskey and sighed. He didn’t have another hunt and maybe it was time to test the waters. “Okay Wade, let me grab my stuff and I’ll meet you outside in twenty.”

The hunter watched the youngest Winchester leave the bar. He made a quick call to alert the others. It was just pure luck that he’d found the illusive hunter. He still wasn’t sure he believed what he’d been told but before this time tomorrow, he and the others would know the truth about Samuel Winchester and his demon blood.

TBC

[Steffs]

OMG NOOOOOOOOooooooooo SAM its a trick.

Robin you are evil that poor boy is just trying to live and get through this and you go and land him in trouble.

GRrrrrrrr

Sounds like a great start you must have worked hard last night, keep going, write, write.

Steffs

[xlozx]

Awesome start
Nothing good has ever come out of them splitting up and now Sam's in trouble, when will they learn Looking forward to the next part

[Bec]

Very nice! Can't wait to read more.

[spikecasey]

Really good start. I really like how it follows closely to season 5. Keep up the good work. Looking forward to the next chapter. Don't keep us waiting too long,.

[dmartins]

oh boy! i love it! please, please continue.

[charmed1of2]

FANTASTIC START SIS, LOVE HOW YOU ARE WORKING THE SEASON INTO THE STORY. NOW YOU HAVE MY BABY ALREADY INTO TROUBLE, UMM CAN I JUST DO THIS , YOU KNOW I LOVE MY HURT SAMMY, LOVE YA FOR THAT.


I'M GLAD ELLEN HELPED DEAN OUT, HOPE SHE STAYS BECAUSE I MISSED HER. UPDATE WHEN YOU'RE READY, I KNOW YOU'RE BUSY.


LOVE YA



LUCY

[Oceane]

Dean and Sam, apart, it's heartbreaking.
No!Sam is going to fall in a trap, what's going to happen
Terrific start Robin, I'm already hooked.

[Raven524]

Steffs: Now would I hurt Sammy when he's down? okay, so you know me too well.

xlozx: Yep, I agree which is why I'm gonna get them back together At least I think I will. Guess we'll have to wait and see how this goes

Bec: Thanks! Glad you like it so far

Spikecasey: Yes, I'm trying to keep as close as I can to S5, hopefully I didn't make you wait too long

dmartins: Thanks! Here's the next chapter!

Lucy: Glad you found it! Yes, there's gonna be a bit of Sammy hurt in this one, but then I know how you like it when I break the poor boy

Oceane: Good question, luckily the answer is in the next chapter!

Thanks for all the reviews! Here is the next chapter. I guess maybe I should issue a alert.

Here you go!

Raven



Chapter 2 – Seeking the Inner Demon



Sam quickly packed and placed his possessions in the trunk of the vintage dark blue mustang Bobby had given him. The car was in good shape and made it easier for Sam to get around. He remembered the old man’s lecture before he gave him the keys to the car. The young hunter touched the back of his head at the memory, the feeling of his friends ever present ball cap as it hit him made him smile. Bobby had insisted after he found out Sam was hitch hiking his way across country that he take the car, “…after all only and idjit would hitchhike with all those demons on the loose!”. Their friend had also made sure Sam was well stocked for weapons. Included in the stash were some of the ones he had left with the Impala. It was another sign that Dean still cared but that really wasn’t enough for him any more.

That was the main reason he was ignoring the warning bells and going on this hunt. He had to know if he could be near a demon without the hunger that had been present in Colorado. As he sat in the car, he pulled out his cell phone. It was time to make two phone calls.

His finger hovered over the first number as he wondered if maybe this time he’d get a live response. As he pushed the button he was soon met with the same greeting he’d gotten for the past month. With a sigh he quickly left his message.

“Hey Dean, I ah heard you were hurt. Listen, I know you don’t want to hear this but you gotta slow down and let yourself heal. If you need me, you know how to reach me and Dean, I’m gonna be going on a hunt with Wade. He says he’s found demon sign in North Ridge Montana. We’re only a few hours away so by the time you get this I’ll probably already be on the hunt. Maybe…well, I’ll call you when it’s over. Keep safe and listen to Ellen for once.” Sam paused before he ended the call. “Jerk”

He shook his head and quickly dialed Bobby. The hunter had left a message for him to call him but he hadn’t said it was urgent. He was probably just check in to make sure he was still breathing. As the phone rang he was surprised to get voice mail as well. Since the older hunter had been confined to a wheelchair he’d stayed home most of the time. Shaking off a sense of worry, he quickly left a similar message for their friend. In a way this was better since he figured Bobby wouldn’t approve either.

He dropped his phone back in his pocket and drove to meet up with Wade. After he finished this hunt maybe he’d take a break at Bobby’s and with luck his brother would be there as well.

oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Bobby Singer wasn’t in a good mood. He’d been trying to get hold of Dean and Sam for over a day and neither one of the idjits were answering his phone. As he threw the wrench into his toolbox he gazed at the new van that had become his mode of transportation. Dean had stopped by and spent a week getting the vehicle in shape, including the installation of the hand controls that allowed the hunter to drive.

The problem was, he didn’t have much need to drive anywhere. He’d adapted as best he could but in the end he was still trapped and almost useless to the ones who needed them most. He looked skyward and cursed the angel that had laid this on him. Sam had told him he was still looking for a way to reverse it, but as the months dragged on the old hunter was afraid it would be a permanent condition.

“Damn Winchesters!” Bobby cursed as he realized he’d need someone to help him close the hood. Dean was supposed to have stopped by to help him but he’d been laid up for an extra day. Ellen had reported he was fine but wasn’t in any shape to drive. But that didn’t mean the boy couldn’t call. Just as he was getting ready to call it a day he heard the sound of a familiar engine. He turned his chair and couldn’t help the smile that appeared at the sight of the black muscle car coming down his driveway. At least one of his boys was home and with luck, the other would be on the way soon.

The squeak of the door announced Dean’s arrival. “Hey old man, you need a hand?”

“Looks like you’re the one that needs one boy. I thought Ellen told you to stay put?” Bobby rolled his chair forward and met his young friend half way.

“You called and I figured I’d just stop in to make sure you were eating your Wheaties and staying out of trouble.” Dean remarked as he clasped a hand on the old hunter’s shoulder.

“Have you heard of a phone? I can’t afford many more gray hairs so next time--return the call.” Bobby groused as he turned and moved back towards the van. A moment later Dean joined him and looked inside.

“You done?” The comment covered more than the van but Bobby chose to ignore it.

“Yeah, close the hood and join me inside. We need to talk.” Bobby didn’t wait but wheeled up the ramp Sam had made for him during one of his visits. Between the two boys, they had managed to make his home accessible. But neither one of them had managed to be at his place together. As the days turned into months the surrogate father wondered if he should intercede but then he remembered who he was dealing with. John Winchester’s stubbornness had obviously spread to his sons. He watched as Dean automatically checked to make sure the wards they had placed were still in tact as he entered the room.

“So old man, what was so urgent?” Dean asked as he closed the door and moved towards the fridge. He pulled out two beers and handed one to Bobby.

They both took a sip before Bobby sighed and looked at his young friend. “I’ve heard some rumblings from the hunting community. I wanted to warn both of you to keep your eyes and ears open.”

“What do you mean Bobby?” Dean leaned forward, his hand on the beer bottle clenched tighter.

“I mean a couple of hunters were spouting off about how they were planning to get to the bottom of what happened that night. They’re talking about finding Sam.” Bobby looked up and watched as the older Winchester paled.

“Did you warn Sam?” Dean asked tersely.

“Of course I tried to, but just like you he didn’t return my call. It’s not the kind of thing I like to leave on voice mail—we all know how messages can be changed…” Bobby still couldn’t believe the trouble that had been caused when the message Dean left for Sam had been altered. He’d discovered during one of the early visits with Sam. The kid had told him what Dean had said in the message, even played it for Bobby. When he had told Dean, he believed the kid when he claimed it wasn’t what he sent. Since then, the old hunter had been leery of leaving important messages on the darn machines.

“Okay, so Sam hasn’t called. Didn’t he say he was hunting a ghost in Montana?” Dean leaned back and tried to look relaxed but he didn’t fool Bobby. He could see the old big brother peeking through the mask the man so carefully wore.

“Yeah, but he should have had that tied up already. I’ll try him again later today unless the idjit calls…” Bobby took another sip before he set back and looked at the oldest Winchester. He could see the damage the life was doing to the man. He was looking worn and the glint that used to reside in his eyes was now dull with fatigue.

“We could go find him…” Bobby said softly. He’d said this before and wasn’t surprised when Dean shook his head.

“No, we have to trust him Bobby. He’ll call in as soon as the hunt is complete. In the meantime, do you know who the hunters were?”

Bobby sighed but decided now wasn’t the time to push. It was hard being patient but he also knew the boys couldn’t be forced back together this time. They had to decide to hunt again on their own or it would just end up the same way—maybe worse. “One of them is a rogue hunter named Dodger, he’s every bit as mean as your old friend Gordon—in fact, he might be a bit worse if you get my drift. He’s gotten a few other hunters to listen to his theories. I can understand some of them, but the one that floored me was Wade.”

“Don’t know the man, does Sam know him?” Dean leaned forward again.

“Yeah, he and Sam did a job shortly after you…” Bobby paused and swallowed before he continued. “…well anyway. I was glad Sam was getting back on the road and Wade has always been level headed. It was shortly after that hunt that Sam disappeared. Anyway--I don’t know why he’d be hanging out with that bunch of yahoo’s”

“So do we need to worry about other hunters as well?” Dean’s shoulders were tense and his eyes looked tired.

“No, the rest are too busy trying to keep a lid on things. Even if they suspect, my guess is the fact that Sam is out there fighting just as hard says more than anything else.” Bobby stopped and noticed the look of guilt on Dean’s face. He shook his head at the stubbornness of the Winchester men.

“Can you check to see where they’re at? I mean if they’re not in Montana then we have time to warn Sammy.” Dean replied as he stood and gazed out the window. Bobby wheeled over to the bank of phones and noticed that his message light was lit. “Hold on, maybe the idjit called.”

Dean watched as Bobby quickly pushed the replay button on the message machine. Both men went silent as they heard the youngest Winchester’s voice.

“Hey Bobby, I hope you’re okay. Anyway, I’m sorry I missed your call but wanted to let you know I finished the hunt and I’m joining up with Wade to track down a demon in North Ridge Montana. I might not be able to contact you again until after we finish. Oh and Bobby, do me a favor and check on Dean.” There was a slight pause before the hunter continued. “Wade told me he was—ah, that Ellen was taking care of him. Please Bobby, if it’s serious let me know…I know he wouldn’t want me there but…ah…never mind. I’ll call you back when I’m done.”

Dean dropped the rest of his beer into the trash and began to head for the door. “Where do you think you’re going boy?” Bobby called as he wheeled after him.

“North Ridge Montana…” Dean said as he exited the door. Bobby glanced at the empty room and making a decision followed his surrogate son out the door.

“Not by yourself boy, not this time…” Bobby wheeled down the ramp and called out to Dean’s retreating back. “Hold up Dean—I’m coming with!”

oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Sam threw his duffle bag on the single bed in the room and headed to wash up. Wade had the connecting room next door so they could work together. While it would have been easy enough for both of them to share a room, he still felt funny letting anyone else but Dean sleep in the same room. As he washed his face he wondered how his brother was doing. He wanted to just forget this hunt and head to Bobby’s so badly it hurt. Yet, he couldn’t leave Wade after he agreed to help him. He’d have to hurry up with the research so they could get this done quickly.

A soft knock at the connecting door caused him to hurry from the bathroom. He opened the door and smiled at his friend. “Hey Wade, just washing up.”

“You want to grab something to eat or order in?” Wade asked as he entered the room.

“Do you mind if we order in? I kind of want to get this one done so I can check on Dean.” Sam replied honestly.

“Sure, I understand. I was surprised you weren’t on your way there already. Is he still in the same place or would he head for Singer’s?” Wade paused but when Sam didn’t add anything he shrugged and continued. “I’ll order, you start researching okay?” He passed a folder to Sam and then returned to his room.

The young hunter quickly scanned the contents and had to agree it did sound like something strange was going on. There had been reports of people who normally were upright citizens suddenly doing things like robbing jewelry stores and attacking complete strangers. Afterwards each person claimed they didn’t remember why they had done it. The problem was, he couldn’t be sure if it was just one demon who was meat suit hopping, or more than one. Everything pointed to demon possession, but he knew other entities that could also have the same effect.

Making some notes, he figured the first place to start was some of the victim’s homes. If it was a demon, there would be other signs. If not, then they’d need more information to narrow down the list of suspects. Just in case he decided to research the area for any anomalies. As he began to check the usual sites, he heard his friend Wade come back through the connecting door.

“I’m pretty sure we’re dealing with some kind of demon, but we’ll need to visit…” Sam felt a sharp pain in his neck followed by the room spinning crazily around him. As he turned, he shuddered as he realized his mistake too late.

“I think we can forget about the research Sammy—you’ve found me!” Wade smirked as his eyes turned pitch black.

Sam stood and tried to grab the demon, but his body refused to obey. The last thing he heard before darkness took him was the demon’s laugh.

ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

“Dodger are you sure about this?” Tom asked once more as they checked over the large abandoned warehouse. In the center of the room stood a chair that had been bolted to the ground and had heavy restraints attached to the arms and legs. Off to the side stood a table with different knives and other tools of torture that made the hunter shiver at the thought of what kind of damage they could do. Finally, in the center of the room chains were looped through a pulley from the ceiling.

“I’m sure--but if you don’t have the stomach for it, then you better go now. Wade just called and he’s bringing the package in.” The large man pushed the sweat stained cowboy hat back from his forehead. He was in his late forties but had the build of a man half his age. It was clear he’d lived a hard life from the scars on his face and arms.

Tom’s mind went back to his first introduction to the supernatural world ten months earlier. His brother had been killed by a werewolf while he had watched. Just before the wolf made him his next meal, Dodger had shown up and killed the beast. Unfortunately it had been too late for his brother. He blinked away the memory as he shook his head. “No, I believe you Dodger. If you think he can lead us to Lucifer, then we need to at least try.”

“That’s right boy, ‘aint no room now for hesitation. Accordin’ to Wade that boy not only opened the door, but he drank demon blood to do it. He made his self into a monster and don’t deserve no pity as far as I’m concerned.” Dodger spit on the floor and wiped his mouth with the back of hand.

“Okay, I’m in.” Tom said quietly as he heard the sound of the large door rolling aside to admit the black van. “Besides, it looks like the package has arrived.”

Dodger smiled as the van pulled up and the door opened to reveal the other hunter. “Did he give you any trouble?”

Wade turned and smiled before he turned back and opened the side panel door. “No, he never saw it coming. Help me get him to the chair…”

The two hunters dragged the unconscious form from the van. The mop of brown hair covered the man’s face as they quickly pulled him across the floor. A few minutes later, the young Winchester was place in the chair. Wade walked to the table and returned with a knife. He made quick work of removing the boy’s shirts leaving him bare chested. Next he pulled off Sam’s shoes and socks followed by his jeans. Dodger quickly secured their captive to the chair and stepped back.

“How long before the drug wears off Wade?” Tom asked as he gazed at the unconscious form of the man who was being accused of causing the end of the world. As he looked closer, he couldn’t help but wonder how a boy so young had managed to do so much damage. For the second time he wondered if they were doing the right thing.

“He’ll be out of it for a bit yet. Time enough for us to grab some food.” Wade replied as he slapped his hand on the hunter’s back. “How about you go out and grab some take-out while Dodger and I finish getting things ready here?”

Tom couldn’t help the shiver that ran through him as he nodded. “Sure, you guys want the usual?” As both men nodded the nervous hunter pulled out his keys and headed for door.

“Don’t forget the beer Tom!” Dodger called out as he turned and began to help Wade prepare.

Deciding to walk to the local take-out, Tom turned away from his car and headed down the deserted street. The restaurant was only about a mile down the road near the highway. As he continued to walk he couldn’t help feeling something was wrong. He’d heard about the Winchesters from other hunters he’d come across and none of them had a bad word to say about the demon hunting brother’s. In fact, he recalled one hunter remarking on how they had divided up so they could handle more hunts.

He’d been there when Wade had approached Dodger. The tale he spun about Sam Winchester had seemed impossible at first but the man had too many details and it couldn’t be coincidence that the boy had been present for more than one demonic door opening ceremony. Of course, when he agreed to come along he thought they were going to just talk to the man.

His hand fingered the cell phone in his pocket as he moved into an alley. Maybe he should do some more checking before he got any further involved. He owed Dodger, but that didn’t mean he would take a life for him. Especially one he wasn’t sure was guilty. Decision made he pulled out the phone and dialed.

“Hey Bobby, this is Tom Sorrenson. I’m in North Ridge Montana with Dodger and I think I might be in over my head here. “

“Where exactly are you Tom?” Bobby’s voice sounded terse.

“I’m on a hunt Bobby but…” Tom heard someone talking in the background before another voice came on the line.

“This is Dean Winchester and I know you have my brother. Now you’re gonna tell me where he is or so help me god…” The cold anger he heard on the other end of the line made his skin go cold. He’d heard how good a hunter Dean Winchester was and knew if he wanted to find him, he would. He heard Bobby’s voice in the background before the old hunter came back on the phone.

“Listen Tom, Sam Winchester is innocent of whatever that fool Dodger is feeding you with. Now tell me where he is before you get yourself into something you’ll regret.”

Tom looked down and sighed. He really couldn’t kill a man, especially the way Dodger was aiming to do it. Besides, he’d heard Bobby Singer was above reproach in the hunting community. He should have checked with him before this but maybe he could make it right now.

“Look, we’re in a warehouse—argh!” Tom cried out as a sharp pain raced through his spine. The phone dropped from his hands as his knees met the pavement. He groaned as something lodged in his shoulder and then there was no pain only darkness as he fell forward. It took a moment for his mind to catch up with what had happened. He’d been shot in the back. He rolled over and gazed up at the man he’d trusted and shivered as he saw the warm brown eyes turn to black.

“So, who were you talking to?” Wade asked as he picked up the broken phone before tossing it aside again. Tom screamed as the man kicked him in the side. He felt a rib break as his breathing became more labored. “I’m not going to ask you again. I can either end you easy or let you suffer. Maybe we practice on you first huh?”

Tom blinked before he replied, his voice a mere whisper as he struggled for air. “Ellen—but—but…” another blow hit his side and he felt another pain race through his damaged chest.

“What did you tell her?” Wade pulled him up close, his eyes glaring dangerously in the late afternoon light.

“Nnnothing—not there—out—out of town—Jo didn’t know where—wouldn’t tell—wouldn’t…” Tom’s voice left him as he gazed at the man who he once considered a friend. He felt the hard cement hit the back of his head as the demon dropped him back on the ground and looked at him with disgust.

“I knew I couldn’t trust you Tom. Good thing your friend Dodger has a mean streak in him. He’ll do what I want without question and after he convinces the whole hunting community that Dean Winchester is just as corrupt as his brother, he’ll join you…” Tom tried to speak but his voice was lost along with his soul. He only hoped the demon believed his lie and that he would get a chance to see his own brother again as he let the darkness take him.

ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Sam groaned as he blinked to clear the fuzziness from his vision. His tongue felt like it was glued to the roof of his mouth and his head pounded in time to his heart beat. He tried to reach up to keep his brain from falling out of his skull only to find out he was tied to a chair. He tugged against the restraints holding him but there was no give in the bindings.

He tried to remember what happened when suddenly he realized. The demon they’d been hunting had found a new home, in Wade. The problem was; how was he supposed to get the bastard out without hurting his friend. His mind went back to how it had been with Ruby. This wouldn’t have been a problem back then but now? Now he would most likely have to kill a good man just to get rid of the demon.

The old feelings began to rise in him, the need to have control, to be able to be on a level playing field in a world where he was David taking on Goliath. But just as quickly self loathing rose to squelch it. It was the same justification he used before and it had felt right to him. After all, that is what both his father and brother had drilled into him since he was old enough to hunt. Save as many as they could by killing the things no one wanted to see.

He thought he was doing the right thing, but since he’d been on his own he began to realize his father had also told him to keep the bigger picture in mind. It wasn’t fair that some had to die, he remembered during the last hunt Dean had even told him there was nothing he could do to save those teens. How many times had his brother and father both tried to save the innocent person but if there was no other choice, they had killed.

The sudden jerking of his head as a hand grabbed him by the hair caused the young hunter to gasp. “It’s ‘bout time you decided to join the party Sam.”

“Who—who are you?” Sam stuttered he caught a glimpse of a man wearing a cowboy hat. It had to be another hunter, but he’d never met the man. As the cowboy’s fist connected with his cheek, he felt something shatter. The pain brought a tear to his eye as the first hit was soon followed by another to the opposite side of his face.

“I’m the one whose gonna make you wish you was never born you demon blood sucker. But first, you’re gonna tell me where we can find your new master…”

“Christo!” Sam called out as he saw the man’s face for the first time. He didn’t know whether to be happy or scared that there was no reaction.

“How dare you! I’m not the one on trial here. Now why don’t you just make it easy on everyone and admit you are working for Lucifer. I promise to make your death a quick one.”

“No! I didn’t…” Sam groaned as a fist landed in his stomach making him gasp for air.

“Don’t lie to me boy!” The hunter yelled, his eyes cold as stone. “Now once again, where is your new master!”

“I don’t know…” Sam gasped out.

“Fine, we’ll do this the hard way. Maybe you need a little more persuasion. I wonder how that demon blood of yours will react to consecrated iron?” The man pulled out a gun and held it against Sam’s thigh.

“NO! Please…” Sam struggled against the bonds holding him but the sound of the gun being cocked caused him to stop. He couldn’t tell the man what he wanted. An air of defeat settled on the young hunter as he realized on some level he deserved everything that was about to happen. He was just glad Dean wasn’t around to see it. Sam swallowed as he watched the man’s finger caress the trigger, the sound of a shot echoed in the room followed by someone screaming.

It took a moment for Sam to realize the person who had screamed was him as the pain in his leg blossomed. “I got plenty of ammo here boy, so once again—are you going to admit you were conspiring with that bitch Ruby all along to release Lucifer and end the world?”

“Please…” Sam tried again, the pain of being beaten and shot making it difficult for him to process any coherent thoughts.

“Fine, guess we need to try again.”

The silence of the warehouse was once again broken by the sound of a gun shot.


TBC

[Steffs]

That second gun shot had better be DEAN !


Sheesh all that tension. I was holding my breath for most of that update. Wow would it be a cliche to say your writing had me enthralled, gripped, and leaning forward to read it better. No ? okay I'll say it then, your writing had me enthralled, gripped, and leaning forward to read it better.

Hold on Sammy don't admit to anything rescue is on the way and I wouldn't want to be on the other end of a pissed Bobby let alone Dean.

MORE MORE



Steffs

[FireDancr2]

You didn't? omg... You did! You shot Sammy while he was already down.

Poor Sammy still thinking that he deserves whatever happens to him.

And Dean and Bobby are on the way, but is it too little too late?

Evil cliffy with a gunshot ringing throughout the warehouse. Holy cow, what next? Think I'll hide here for a little while.



Great udpate and start of a new story. Freaking awesome!

Beth

[Oceane]

Sam is in big trouble. If he thinks he's not worthy, he could very well give up and die
At least Tom had time to call Dean, hope it's not too late.
Can't wait to know what'll happen next.

[Bec]

Oh, poor Sam!

[Raven524]

Thanks guys! I'm glad its not too AU at this point. Here's the next chapter for you, I guess I should warn there is major Sammy wumpage in this one so beware!

Chapter 3 –The Search Begins



Dean glanced over at the man sitting in the shotgun seat. A soft sigh escaped his lips as he once again wished that things could be different. He tried to convince himself he was happy, that he was glad he was finally free of the family that had held him down for so long. The truth was, he did feel free for the first time in his life and he did like the feeling. He didn’t have to worry about anyone except himself. His actions would only affect him.

But then he listened to Sam’s phone message while he waited for Bobby to gather a few things from his van. He heard the hurt and confusion and knew he was the cause this time. His brother was still trying but he had stopped and now Sam was in trouble. The worst part was his brother thought he wanted nothing to do with him.

Somewhere along the line he’d forgotten his brother meant more to him than anything else. The feeling of betrayal was still there and the hurt over his brother’s decisions. But there was also guilt for putting Sam in the position to begin with. It wasn’t his anger that was keeping them apart, but his avoidance of the guilt he felt each time he looked at his brother.

“So how much longer are boys gonna be takin’ this vacation?” Bobby asked breaking into his thoughts. Their old friend had also suffered, had been lied to and even knocked unconscious by his brother and yet he’d been able to accept Sam and move on.

“I know Bobby…” Dean started.

“Do you? Do you really? You haven’t spoken to the boy in over a month Dean.” Bobby gazed steadily at him.

“I’ve been a little busy.” Dean said brusquely, his anger beginning to rise. “Besides, he agreed that we should work apart.”

“I’m sure he did at first Dean. You both were in a bad place and while I think going your separate ways may have been a stupid, I can understand it and have respected your decisions. But boy, you know he’s got a target on his back and you left him without backup.”

“I told him to hunt with Ellen or even Joshua would have joined him Bobby. He didn’t have to be alone; he could have come to stay with you…” Even to his own ears, the excuse sounded lame. He knew his brother wouldn’t want to accept the help, wouldn’t want to put others at risk because deep down he believe Sam when he’d told him he was afraid of himself. A sigh escaped his lips before he gazed over at his old friend.

“He’s his own man now Bobby. We tried to help him and he walked away. I have to let him do this to prove to himself that he can.” Dean saw the sympathy in the man’s eyes before he turned to look back at the road.

For a moment he thought Bobby was through but then he should have known better. The man had been holding his thoughts in for too long. “So what does he prove if he gets himself killed? Did it ever occur to you that would be what he wants? The hunts the boy is taking on are the most dangerous, hell other hunters have walked away from a few of them and yet he’s still out there trying to prove to himself. It was bad enough when he stopped hunting in the beginning, but when he decided to jump back in, it’s almost like he’s on a suicide mission.”

Dean flinched as he thought about what the old hunter was saying. He’d thought Sam was just trying to prove to him he could hunt, but what if he was really trying to just get himself killed? After their last phone conversation, he’d thought he was sparing Sam more hurt, but in the end what if he had driven him into despair.

“God Bobby this is so messed up. I don’t know what to do anymore.” Dean finally admitted as he pushed down harder on the gas pedal. Suddenly it was even more urgent he get to Sam. He thought his brother knew he still cared and eventually wanted him back.

“You do what you’ve always done—what you both have always done. You be there for him and kick him in the ass if he needs it—but you protect his back and you let him have yours.” Bobby cuffed Dean lightly behind the ears. “Idjits…”

Just as Dean was going to reply he heard Bobby’s cell phone ring. He noticed the tenseness of his friend’s shoulders as he answered.

“Where exactly are you Tom?” Bobby’s spoke tersely into the phone. When he heard the name he knew it was one of the hunters that were hunting his brother. He pulled over to the side of the road and grabbed the phone.

“This is Dean Winchester and I know you have my brother. Now you’re gonna tell me where he is or so help me god…” It was funny how the old emotions came flooding back. The need to protect, the need to make sure Sam was safe surfaced with a vengeance.

“Damn it boy, give me the phone before you have him hangin’ up!” Bobby grabbed the phone back and continued the conversation.

“Listen Tom, Sam Winchester is innocent of whatever that fool Dodger is feeding you with. Now tell me where he is before you get yourself into something you’ll regret.”

Dean watched as Bobby nodded for a moment but before he could say anything else alarm flashed across his friend’s face.

“Tom? Damn it boy what warehouse!” Dean watched as the old hunter’s shoulders slumped before he turned his concerned gaze towards him.

“What happened?”

“I heard a shot and the boy screamed, then the line went dead.” Bobby sighed as he ran a hand through his hair before replacing his cap.

“Did he tell you where they had Sam?” Dean felt sorry for the young man, but not enough to waste time on him. He was one of the rogue hunters who now held his brother’s life in their hands.

“All he could get out was a warehouse. We’ll have to do some leg work when we get there. I’ll start checking the hospitals in an hour or two…” Bobby pulled out the phone and shortly he was talking to Ellen.

Dean tuned the conversation out as a coldness settled into his stomach. If the hunters were killing their own—what did that mean for Sam?

oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Sam flinched as the sound of the gun shot echoed through the room. His gaze fell down to the hole that now went through the seat of the chair between his legs. Laughter echoed as the man stepped back and gazed at him with hate filled eyes.

“You’re gonna tell me everything I want to know before we’re through and then maybe I’ll let you precede your new master back to hell.” Sam felt dizzy as the beatings and blood loss began to take their toll. From the amount of blood he was losing he figured it wouldn’t take long.

“What have you done Dodger?” Wade’s voice filled the room.

“Just thought I’d soften him up for yah Wade. Where did you go?” Dodger turned to face the other hunter.

“I caught up with Tom to ask him to get us a few more supplies but…” Wade looked away before turning back, his eyes filled with sadness.

“What?” Dodger asked.

“He was on the phone with Ellen, I got to him before he could tell her anything but he pulled his gun on me. I had to kill him…” Wade finished softly.

Dodger stepped back for a moment, his gaze narrowed before he finally shook his head. “Damn fool boy. He was having doubts before you came back.” The cowboy quickly turned and landed another punch to Sam’s stomach. “It’s all your fault demon lover. If it weren’t for you the boy would still be alive!”

Sam groaned as his breath was driven from his lungs at the next punch. He didn’t know how much more his body would take. “Not—my—ffault. He—he’s—demon…” Sam screamed as the wound on his leg was pressed down on. White hot pain ran through him as he fought to stay conscious.

“Liar! The only demon here is you!” Dodger raised his fist again but was stopped by Wade’s hand. Sam could see the smile on the man’s face before his mask fell back in place.

“No sense in killing him before we get the information we need. Go walk it off!” Wade said to Dodger before he moved forward and grabbed Sam’s hair. He pulled his head painfully back until he was forced to gaze into the cold black eyes. The eyes quickly changed back to their normal color, but he’d seen enough to know he was in trouble.

“You can save us all time and yourself some pain if you’ll just tell us three things Sam.”

“Don’t know where…” Sam mumbled.

“Of course you do. You know where Lucifer is but why don’t we try something easier. It was both you and your brother who started the apocalypse right? Dean is just as guilty as you; in fact I’m betting he didn’t come back from his trip to Hell without a little demonic passenger.” Wade glanced back at the other hunter and grinned. Sam could see Dodger was buying the whole story. He had to protect Dean; nothing else mattered at this point.

“No! He tried to stop me. It was my fault—I drank the demon blood—I worked with Ruby and…” Sam swallowed before he met the gaze of the demon. “I let your father out of his cage. CHRISTO!” The young hunter screamed and smiled as he saw the instant reaction. He had hoped that Dodger would see and understand. But the man had turned and walked away towards the opposite side of the warehouse.

A hard slap across his face caused him to look back up at the demon possessed hunter. “Good try but you see, he won’t believe you and soon the other hunters will also come to their senses.”

“It won’t work—they all aren’t as stupid as Dodger and Dean will stop you.” Sam ground out.

“I don’t need to work on all, just some boy. Once we have the hunters fighting among themselves, they’ll be easy pickings. Besides, once they find out your brother was also in on it he’ll be so busy running from them my father will have time to claim what’s his.” Wade grinned as he ran a finger down Sam’s face.

“What are you talking about?” Sam whispered.

“You’re his vessel. Of course, he’ll have to fix up some of the dings and dents but once you agree, he’ll be ready to move in and set up house.”

“I’ll never agree so he can just go someplace else.” The young hunter let his head drop as the room continued to swirl around him. Somehow what the demon said wasn’t a big shock. He’d always known—it was why he’d tried so hard to fight against it. To have it confirmed though caused the brief flair of hope that he’d ever get to be with his brother and Bobby again to fade. There was no way he’d put either of them in the position of having to kill him—he’d do it himself.

“Such dark thoughts, that’s all right Sammy. Once you give in and agree your pain and suffering will end.” Wade walked over to the table and returned with a first aid kit. Sam flinched as he watched the man pull out the supplies.

“But until then why don’t we plug the leak and continue.” Sam flinched as he watched the demonic hunter lay out the probe and other supplies to remove the bullet from his leg. He jumped as the man pulled out a knotted bandana from his pocket and moved to gag him.

“Wouldn’t do to have you bite off your tongue, after all we need you to talk—eventually.” Sam glared at the man as he was gagged. He understood that the demon didn’t want to take any more chances that he’d spill his secret.

“And of course, we don’t seem to have any sort of pain relief so when you’re ready to tell us what we want to know—just nod.” Sam let his head drop to his chest and tried to prepare for what he knew was coming.

Dodger had returned just in time to hand Wade the probe. “I don’t see why we need to keep him alive. He’s a Winchester through and through, nothing is gonna get him to talk.”

“Why give up so early? If we kill him now it would be too easy for him. I want to make it slow for what he’s done, what his brother has done. If the world is gonna end, then I want them to suffer as much as the rest of us don’t you?” Wade said as he pushed the probe into the hole in Sam’s leg. The pain was immediate as he felt it touch bone. He couldn’t help the scream that fell from his lips.

“Okay, but he doesn’t leave here alive Wade.” Dodger nodded as he glared up at Sam. “He pays for Tom’s death with his own.”

ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Dean pulled up to the first motel in North Ridge Montana. It was their usual hole in the wall place complete with faded paint and doors that looked like they’d been kicked in one time too many. But he didn’t care. To him it was just a place to stop and begin the search for Sam. He pulled Bobby’s wheelchair from the trunk and helped his friend from the car.

“I’ve checked with the local hospitals but there is no reported gun shot victim being admitted and no one matching Sam’s description either.” Bobby replied as he accepted his pack from Dean before wheeling into the room. He dropped the bag by the door and moved towards the table. He looked at the other bed and sighed, it should be Sam sleeping there not him.

He watched as Dean entered the room and dropped his own bag at the end of the bed closest to the door. He couldn’t help but notice the slightly slumped shoulders when his gaze also moved towards the other bed. “We’ll get him back Dean.” The old hunter offered.

“Yes, we will.” Dean said with conviction that didn’t quite meet his eyes. The green orbs were filled with worry and guilt.

“Well while you go play ‘G-man’ with the locals I’ll keep making calls to see if we can’t narrow down the possible warehouses. I also asked Ellen to join us since I don’t think I’ll be much help.” Bobby slammed his fist on his useless legs. It was times like this where he felt his loss the most. His boys needed him and he was helpless. He jumped as a hand landed on his shoulder.

“Your being here is enough Bobby. I don’t think I could handle this without you.” Dean said softly before he stepped back with a slight grin on his face. “But first we need food and I need a beer. I’ll be back in a few with both.”

Bobby laughed softly as he watched the young man who he now thought of as his own walked from the room. As dire as the situation was, in a way he was glad it had happened. It was the kick in the pants that the older Winchester needed. Now he just had to worry about getting Sam back on the same page.

He thought back over his conversations with the youngest hunter over the past couple of months and he really was concerned. It wasn’t so much what Sam had said, but how he said it. The boy was still self-destructing. He just hoped his other surrogate son hadn’t slipped too far away to bring back.

A knock at the door brought him out of his thoughts. He grabbed his gun and wheeled to the door. “Who is it?”

“Ellen you old coot, now open the door.” He grinned as he pulled the door open to let the bar tender turned hunter in.

“Where’s Dean?” Ellen remarked as she dropped her own bag in the room.

“He’s out getting supplies and if I know him stopping off at the local police station to follow up on our only lead.” Bobby moved back and watched as Ellen sighed before sitting down on one of the rickety chairs.

“I can’t believe that Wade would be involved in this. It just doesn’t make sense!” Ellen remarked as she looked up at Bobby.

“I know, but then people get a bit antsy when they figure out what’s comin’ at them. Maybe he just wants to talk to the boy after all.”

“And maybe Jo will give up hunting.” Ellen sighed as she looked towards the second bed. “This could get bad really fast. Dodger is bad news Bobby.”

“I know, but we have a lead and with a little luck, we’ll get the boy back before it can go too far.”

“I hope you’re right Bobby or we’re gonna lose them both.”

ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Sam jerked as the cold water sluiced down his body. He shivered as he tried to figure out where he was. The throbbing in his leg was keeping time with his heart but that wasn’t his biggest concern at the moment. The last thing he remembered was Wade patching him up before he lost consciousness. Unfortunately he had been aware during most of the painful procedure.

However now his shoulders were screaming from the strain of being hung from the ceiling; his wrists throbbing from the tight manacles that were cutting off circulation in his hands. The metal was biting into his skin, his feet unable to touch the ground. He jerked again as another bucket of iced water hit him.

“Wake up Sammy; we need to continue our discussion.” Wade smirked as he stayed back and watched Dodger throw a third bucket of the cold water on the helpless man.

“Mph!” Sam cried into the gag. How was he supposed to talk with the gag still firmly in place?

“Are you ready to admit that Dean is just as guilty as you?” Wade asked.

Sam shook his head and glared at the hunters.

“Fine, then I guess we have more work to do. Dodger remember to leave some skin as it wouldn’t do for him to die too soon.” Wade smirked as Sam’s eyes moved to follow the other hunter. His breathing hitched as he saw the whip the man chose from the implements on the table. He couldn’t help the slight flinch as Dodger ran the whip down his chest before stepping behind him.

Even though he knew what to expect, the pain of the first strike still took his breath away. The next one caused him to arch as he felt the skin on his back give way. He closed his eyes and began to concentrate on his breathing like his father had taught them. As he breathed through the pain his mind began to wander over possible ways to escape. If he could get them to remove the gag, he could try an exorcism but he was sure Wade would silence him before he got too far.

Once again he wished he had his powers back. He wouldn’t be able to do anything except expel the demon, but that would at least be proof to the other hunter he wasn’t on Lucifer’s side. He could feel the helplessness eating away at him again; the feeling of no control swamped his senses as the beating continued. He jumped as Wade stepped forward and whispered, “Not so easy without the demon blood is it Sammy? Without it, you’re just like the rest of the meat suits. I can’t believe you gave up the power. Bad move Sammy, really bad move.”

Sam blinked as he heard the words and realized once again how quickly he had begun to fall down the rabbit hole. Dean had been right. He still craved the power, the control he’d had while the tainted blood flowed through him. He’d never be cured, never be able to resist. As he felt the blood running down his back and pooling on the floor beneath his feet he realized there would never be a time when he would be free.

“That’s right Sammy; you’ll never be able to avoid your fate so why fight so hard. Just nod your head and let me know you accept what my father offers and I’ll get rid of the hunter for you. In fact, I’ll even promise to protect your brother.” The demon continued to whisper as Dodger landed another blow across his shoulder blades.

Sam blinked back the tears that had formed against his will. Like Dean, he’d learned his lesson about making any kind of deal with the demons. He shook his head and prepared to endure. The next lash landed on his lower back, curling around his side leaving liquid fire in its wake.

Besides, if he died then everyone would be safe including Dean. It was the way it was supposed to be and he wasn’t going to fight it any longer.


TBC

[Steffs]

No Sammy fight, you gotta fight.

That damned Luci. Sam can fight physical pain but the insiduous voice in his head, the dig dig dig at his conscience the piling on of the guilt, how can he fight that when he feels its all true.

I think you hit Sammy's nail on the head with that Robin.

AND

Dean, man I know where he's coming from only too well.


The truth was, he did feel free for the first time in his life and he did like the feeling. He didn’t have to worry about anyone except himself. His actions would only affect him.


Great update

Steffs