A Gunslinger's Tale Part 2
Ellen was not pleased to hear her unwanted guests would be needing further accommodations. Sheriff Singer was even less pleased. “I don want yer particular bran o' vigilante trouble making in my town.”
“And I don't want nothing to do with yer kind in my inn! Yer disruptive to my other guests.”
“Yea well, you're going to have a lot more trouble on your hands than just us if that dragon comes into your town!”
“He's here cause o' you! You and yer damn dragon partner!”
“O they're more than just business partners. The vile, dirty, ...”
Dean's face was red, about to explode, and Cas put a hand to his chest, pushing him back. “The dragon is not here because of Dean and I. He does not travel in a pack, in fact he's been exiled from our pack. He is very dangerous.”
“Yea an' you have no hope of gettin' rid of him without us. Besides I already sent word to my lawyer.”
“Lawyer? Watta ya need a lawyer fer?” Bobby suddenly looked a little anxious. His reaction was clearly of a man that himself did not get along with the law.
Dean grinned wickedly, “He's got a mean quick draw.” Cas snorted beside him.
Bobby and Ellen exchanged worried looks before Bobby nodded, “Fine, say we wait for this ere lawyer of yours? Then what?”
“You gather together a posse, and Ellen leads all the women and children out of the area. Maybe somewhere underground, there any caves nearby? Dragons don't like small spaces.” Cas snorted again in agreement.
Ellen frowned again at him. “Boy if you're puttin' a posse together there ain't nobody in this town that can handle a rifle like me.” She gave Dean a look that clearly said 'including you boy'. Dean almost shuddered at her gaze but tried to turn his attention to Bobby and away from the fierce innkeeper.
“You have anyone else in this town you can trust with the women?”
“My daughter'll do it.” Ellen said with a nod, as if suddenly making up her mind. “She won't be happy. But she'll do it. They can hide out in the mining shafts. Ain't nobody gonna be mining with a dragon pillaging neighbors.”
Bobby nodded, “Yea, an I'll gather up the boys. I think I needa drink.”
Dean nodded in agreement, “So ya gonna recede that bar from yer inn?”
It was a fortnight before Samuel Winchester arrived in town. By then all the women and children had been taken down into the mines for shelter and all the towns shops had been barred up. Most of the men that had stayed were holed up in the tavern, on edge and drunk from the close quarters and lack of women. The atmosphere was tense and the whole place would erupt at the drop of a hat. Someone would have already been shot if it hadn't been for Sheriff Singer pacifying the men with a harsh word and Ellen with drink. A few days after the barring one man had made a pass at Ellen and she'd stabbed his hand with a kitchen knife. No man had made a grab for her since, and they'd long accepted her as off limits. As she'd predicted, Ellen's daughter Jo had been resistant to be locked up with the “women and children”, citing that she knew her way around a rifle as good as any man out there. But Sheriff Singer had cajoled her into the task by explicating his need for a firm authority figure with a bite to protect the softer women. She'd been pleased with his assessment. The men of the town were particularly on edge with Cas' appearance. They knew Dean Winchester to be the infamous gunslinger who partnered with a dragon, and they'd seen him ride in on the beast's back, and they couldn't place that with the blue eyed man that now sat beside him. A few men had tried to stir up trouble with the ancient beast, but one look from his ancient eyes had set them tripping on their own boots to be away from him.
When Samuel Winchester arrived they were all on edge, even Cas was starting to become irritated with his human partner's restlessness. When he swung open the great doors to the tavern it was to a glass bottle swinging past his head. He ducked swiftly, avoiding the shattered glass, and stood to dust off his pristine white trousers and silver clasped vest. He looked very out of place in his dress whites with unscuffed silver tipped boots, and a white wide rimmed hat with long slicked back hair beneath. He had a very handsome and rugged face, but his city slick clothes diminished any prospect that he was roughened man that knew his way around a gunfight.
But anyone that judged Samuel Winchester based on first appearances would learn to regret their assumptions, as Sam had been raised by his notorious gunslinger brother since childhood. He could shoot as good as any thief and had a five second quick draw that could wipe the floor with the likes of the men currently inhabiting Ellen's tavern.
“I've had it up to here with all yer lyin and secrets! I know somethins' up with that blue eyes ofer der! You Bobby Singer ain't nothin but a drunkard! He has no right to be sheriffin' this town!” A disgruntled shout floated through the air, and a couple shots were let out, and a scuffle passed by. Samuel looked on dumbfounded as a couple of men rounded on the troublemaker in question and pulled him away, taking hold of his gun. There were shouts and grunts, and then Sam spotted his brother beside the bar. He made his way around the edge of the brawl and dropped himself into the stool beside his brother.
“I see yer still makin friends everywhere you an Cas getta.” He said with a nod to the crowd.
Dean grunted without tracking his eyes from the scene before him. The sheriff was currently cuffing the trouble maker and threatening anyone else that wanted to “question his authority”. Dean suddenly let out a grin as he turned to his brother and enveloped him in a bone crushing hug, “It's good to see ya Sam.”
His brother hugged him back tightly. “You too Dean. Even if it's not under more social circumstances.” He grinned and nodded to Cas from over his brother's shoulder. “I see yer still hanging around my no good brother Cas. Can't believe he corrupted a dragon as noble as yerself into his shenanigans.”
Sam held out his hand to shake Cas' as he pulled back from his brother. Cas stared at the hand, brows furrowing, “Your brother and I are bonded. I could not part from him for it would cause me physical discomfort to do so.”
Sam raised a surprised eyebrow to his brother, “bonded?” He asked in startlement.
Dean grunted before nodding to Cas who finally took Sam's hand into his own and just held it there briefly before Sam felt the need to pull away. Before anyone could speak further on the matter of bonding between humans and dragons Sheriff Singer and Ellen Harvelle were before the threesome, Ellen with her permanent glare in place and the Sheriff looking a bit worse for the wear.
“Mr. Winchester, I suppose this is your brother we've all been waiting for to come in with his fancy law degree and big brains to save us from our plight.” Ellen asked gruffly with a tilted eyebrow.
“Yes Mam, I'm the dimwit's brother.” Sam said as he removed his hat and bowed his head.
Ellen let out a sigh, “Well at least this one's got manners.” She held out her hand which Samuel took and placed a soft kiss to. “I'm Ellen Harvelle, owner of this establishment.”
“Then it's to you I owe my thanks for putting up my brother and his uh … dragon.” Sam said with a small smile.
Ellen smirked, “Oh I like this one. He's sure got a brain on his shoulders. You should meet my daughter when all this is over and done with. She'd make a fine wife, can cook and clean. Plus she's got a bit of an inheritance, mind you.” She said the last part at just above a whisper, her eyes darting around at possible spectators.
Sam, blushing fiercely, pulled his hand away and stammered. Dean let out a low chuckle. “Sorry sweet cheeks, but ya should know, that if you get one Winchester ya get them both.” Dean said with a lazy grin. Cas and Ellen both frowned at him, and Sam shook his head.
“Get we just get down to business. So what are we lookin' at this time brother?” Sam grumbled.
Dean sighed, “We've got an adult male dragon. Same tribe as Cas. Definitely inhospitable. Accordin' a Cas he's got some strong powers.”
Sam sighed, “Great. Why can't we ever get anything easy?”
Dean grunted, “Cause then we wouldn't be needed.”
The next mornin' they finally headed out. Most of the men had gone damn crazy holed up in the tavern for so long and were blessed to be freed. They hardly knew that that breath of air, or the next could be their very last. Most of the men in the posse had never even seen a dragon, let alone fought one. The Winchesters didn't like the odds, going up against an animal like that with inexperienced men was a death wish.
Dragons were a fierce, powerful, and proud race. They viewed human as inferior in most cases, and very few tribes actually aligned themselves with humans. Dean remembered when he had looked for a partner himself. Cas' tribe was known for their peaceful cohabitation with humans, and often would partner with them to fight off the evils of the world together. Although they were friendly towards humans, and even willing to work with them for the greater good, Dean was met with nothing but animosity the day he met with the tribe's elders to requisition a dragon partner. They had found him wanting, and unfit to be a dragon rider. They claimed he was uncivil, weak, and impudent. He was also judged too obtuse for the wisdom of their company. With that he was snubbed by the majority of the tribe, and left in a huff. It was a week later, when Dean was facing down the wrong end of a griffin, sadly wanting, that he was saved by the dark swoop of feathers, and the all too bright knowing blue eyes of an adult male dragon. He had thought the tribe elders had changed their mind and sent a dragon to be his partner, but he had later learned that Cas was out on a reconnaissance mission when he had sensed the evil creature's presence.
From then they formed an unlikely partnership, one that was disavowed by Cas' tribe. Dean often wondered what it was that had caused Cas to go against his own family so readily to support Dean. When they were bonded he was forbidden to ever return to the tribe. And all other dragons spurned him, even the tribes that were friendly towards humans.
Cas' brother, this Lucifer, must have done something to be shunned from the tribe. Quite frankly, Dean was afraid to ask. The two of them rode side by side, atop horseback. Sam thought it might be a good idea for Cas to stay in his human form till the last minute, in the hopes of surprising the other dragon. Neither Dean nor Cas said anything, but they both knew that Lucifer would be able to sense his brother coming regardless. The appearing human dragon, however, did ease some of the discomfort from the other men in the posse. It was best not to startle them too soon with the idea that they had a dragon in their own company.
Dean and Cas rode side by side, and Dean kept shooting glances towards his partner. After catching him watching too many times Cas finally sighed and said, “You may ask me what you're thinking.”
Dean frowned, “I wasn' thinkin' anything Cas.”
Cas glared at the outlaw, “Do not lie to me Dean. I can see into your soul.”
Dean grunted, “I was just thinkin' it might be best if we went into this with everything we got.”
Cas frowned at his partner, “Are you suggesting that I'm not contributing all my abilities to this endeavor?”
Dean furrowed his brow, “Cas y'know I hate it when you talk all righteous dragon at me. Speak plainly! All's I'm sayin' is, I think yer keepin somethin from me.”
Cas looked down at his steed, something a true dragon would never need. He clenched his jaw, “I, you want to know about why he was banned from the tribe, like me.” He looked at Dean, who nodded his assent. Castiel sighed before continuing, “He committed a grievous sin, practicing forbidden magics against the elders orders. His punishment was banishment or death.”
Dean grunted, “Should've saved us some trouble and went with the second.”
Cas sighed, “Dragons are a proud race, they'd rather die than face banishment most of the time.” Dean gritted his teeth with a sigh, hearing everything that Cas wouldn't say. He reached out and grasped Cas' hand into his own.
They rode the rest of the day side by side, their hands clutched together swinging between them.
According to the eye witness Lucifer's lair laid within the valley past the plains beyond town. It was well into the evening by the time they arrived at the location. Cas seemed to be tensing beside Dean, he threw him a cautious look but the dragon avoided his gaze. As they approached the valley Dean immediately knew why Cas was so uneasy.
Before they even got close to the lip of the valley the men heard menacing howls. They were unlike any creature most men would ever have the unfortune of hearing. Dean, however, was very familiar with the low screeching scowls that reverberated through your bones. "Hellhounds." He grunted.
Cas turned a frown Dean's way, "I'm sorry Dean. I should have warned you sooner. My brother seems to be employing them as guards."
Sam rode up beside his brother and Cas, "If those are hellhounds, like you say, then all these men are dead!"
Dean grunted, Bobby, who was now beside them as well looked between their stricken faces, pale faced, "What the hell was that?"
Sam looked to his brother, but it was obvious he was not going to respond. "They're hellhounds. Beasts born of the flames of hell. Summoned using dark magic. They'll defend their master at all costs. They're invisible to the human eye but can be heard. They'll tear ya limb from limb." Bobby looked even more ashen after the explanation.
"We should warn the posse. No man should be subjected to that against their will." Sam nodded, and Dean continued to frown. Howls shrilled through the air, closer than before. The horses were getting skittish, and their riders were muttering amongst themselves. Bobby turned to the posse, to warn them, but before he could get a word in there was a howl from directly to the right of them. One of the men cried out in a mix of surprise and pain. They all looked on in horror as his arm was ripped from his body by an invisible force and blood spurted down his side. His horse spooked, jostling the rider from steed and taking off. The man fell to the ground and the invisible beast began tearing at his flesh in strips. Shouts came from the rest of the men as they all took off in the direction they came from.
"It's too late now! There's no use running! Once they catch your scent you're dead!" Dean shouted over the screaming. Beside him Cas jumped from his horse, who skidded off after the others.
"I can see them. Get behind me." Cas ordered as he ripped his clothes off, his limbs beginning to transform as he did. Most of the men had abandoned them already, being chased down by hellhounds, leaving behind trails of blood and soiled flesh. Only Sam, Dean, Bobby, Cas, Ellen, and a young man with a scarf wrapped tightly around his face were left. They gathered their horses to huddle behind Cas, silencing them with a gentle hand to the muzzle. Dean dismounted and took up along Cas' side. The dragon growled at him, and although Dean understood what Cas was warning he ignored his partner - choosing to draw his gun and defend himself instead. Cas let out a growl, swiping at invisible beasts with it. Blood went spurting through the air in an arc, and Dean heard a howl of pain. He aimed his shot at the end of the trail of blood and was satisfied when he heard a low whimper.
Cas continued to knock the hellhounds around with his claws and Dean tried to follow his lead, shooting at the ones who survived the dragon's claws. The others caught on and soon started to arm themselves, shooting at invisible forces as well. It was impossible to tell if they were aiming in the right direction until they heard a whimper or growl from a hit target.
One hound got past the dragon and Dean's defenses and threw itself at the faceless man, tearing away the scarf adjourning him and ripping at his throat. Sam shot the beast before it could attack again, but the man slumped to the ground with a high pitched whimper. His face was revealed with the fabric gone, to show a young blonde woman. Ellen let out a sharp wail at the sight of her daughter, fallen on the dusty ground, her throat ripped from her neck. Ellen jumped from her horse, throwing herself on her daughter with a cry.
The hellhound Sam shot was not dead and it threw itself on the new victim, Ellen's arm was torn from her shoulder as she tried to reach her daughter's side to comfort her. She let out a sharp cry as a jaw sunk into her side. Bobby was at her side instantly, unloading a series of shots into the invisible beast who let out a blood curdling cry.
Ellen slumped over her daughter prone body, unmoving. Bobby knew better then to dismount to go to her side, not after watching what befell Ellen after she had.
Cas let out a low growl, and Dean nodded, shouting to the others, "We need to retreat. Cas can't handle this many." Cas let out a series of breaths of fire towards the direction the beasts had come from. It wouldn't hold them off long because they were born of flames.
Bobby shouted to Sam, "Help me get their bodies up." Sam dismounted and rushed to Bobby's side, helping him gather the bodies of their fallen comrades, while still trying to keep an eye out for further threats.
Suddenly they heard the yipping howls of the beasts retreating, and loud swish and roar hung in the air as a large beast, much larger than Castiel's dragon form, swooped out of the valley and landed before them. It let out a loud howl and swiftly transformed, much more fluidly than Dean had ever seen Cas transform. Beside him, Cas also began to retreat into his human form. Standing before them was a tall graceful man with glowing gray eyes that looked near black in the retreating light. He smirked playfully at the sight of them. “Ah brother. So good of you to visit me. And it looks like you've brought friends. And old sheriff, two women, a city boy, and your pretty little whore.”
Dean let out a growl of his own but Castiel stepped in front of him. Before either of them could make any remarks, however, Samuel spoke up. “We're here to stop your tormenting of the nearby townspeople. You've destroyed their crops, eaten their horses, and struck fear in the hearts of their women and children. I can not allow that to continue.”
A slick grin spread across the older dragons face. “Oh, this one's a plucky one. I like him. Maybe I should take guidance from my brother and take on a human mate of my own. What do you say Samuel? Would you like power beyond your greatest dreams? You're clearly a man of justice, we can spread our own justice to the world.” The dragon spread out his arms as he spoke and his wings burst from his shoulders, making him appear more majestic.
Dean grumbled, “He's not going anywhere with you!”
“Ah the protective older brother. Like you have a right to speak after stealing our youngest brother.” His smile turned to Castiel who tensed beside Dean, reaching out to create a contact point between him and his mate. Lucifer scoffed, “Think about it Samuel, we could have what your brother and his dragon have, only stronger. I'll be waiting when you have a response.” With that the dragon soared into the sky, still partially in human form - he transformed in mid-air. The humans in the group gaped on in wonderment until he sunk into the depths of the valley and out of the grasp of the human eye.
Once the bodies were gathered they retreated back in the direction they had come.
The company rode hard through the night, searching out a shelter to tend their wounds and recover through the night. Castiel remained in his dragon form, with Dean sat atop his back. There was no need for disguises now. They lead the others by scouting ahead in the skies till they spied a nice cave far beyond the plains and valley. Cas swooped down at the mouth of the cave, Dean hopping from his back and stroking a soothing hand up his spine.
Sam immediately dismounted and ran to help Bobby unload the bodies of his fallen friends. They would bury their bodies that night under the crescent moon for all the stars to see. Their spirits had long ago drifted, and the sheriff would say a prayer they would see heaven.
As Sam and Bobby saw to the dead, Dean lit a fire within the darkened cavern. Cas curled up along his partners side, resting his head on his thigh as the warmth seeped into his skin. He was born of fire, as all dragons were. They were naturally drawn to the flames and anything that resembled the golden hues. It was partially where the rumors of dragons having an ardor for gold came, that and they were a rich species. Dean knew it was a comfort for the dragon who was uneasy in closed spaces. Since their partnership began Cas had often found himself in positions that were uncommon for his species, but he trusted Dean.
“Dean, I think I should summon one of my brothers.” Cas said suddenly. Dean's fingers paused where they had been stroking through Cas' hair tenderly.
Dean scrunched up his face and sighed, “We're not going to call those assholes asking for help. Forget it Cas.”
“Dean, we have two dead, we're in hiding, and we don't have a plan. We need help. I have a brother that would be amenable to helping us.” Dean didn't reject him again, but he didn't consent either.
Cas stepped from the cave and carefully began stripping his clothes and folding them in a pile. Once he was completely naked he began to transform. His skin started to darken and become scaly, then his limb stretched out and curved into their dragon form, and two giant wings sprouted from his back. Once he was completely transformed he let out a loud wail into the sky. It sounded very sad to Dean, and he stood in the entry of the cave waiting. Cas tilted his head upward, his snout making whinnying noises that sounded almost like a horse. After several long minutes Cas transformed back into his human form and slumped onto the ground.
Dean came and sat beside him, placing his palm warmly between his shoulder blades. They sat in silence waiting and watching the sky darken. It was just before dusk when they both heard a roar in the distance. Dean turned to Cas, an eyebrow cocked, and found Cas smiling softly. Neither of them said anything until Sam and Sheriff Singer came out looking for them.
A large black scaled beast fell to the ground before the mouth of the cave, a burst of wind pushing in after him. Shortly after his great wings receded, and then his limbs, and finally his scales turned to skin. Standing before the dwindling posse was a naked man with glowing gold eyes. The men of the group grunted in displeasure and huffed as they averted their eyes, the sheriff let out an “Aw hell.”
The new dragon grinned, “Aww Cassie! It's so good to see you!” The man embraced Cas and rubbed their cheeks together, moaning his approval.
Cas' eyebrows furrowed, “Gabriel.”
“So what's the word?” His eyes skimmed over the other men present, and fell onto Dean, “So this the human you left yer family for?”
“I did not leave my family. I was disowned when I chose to bond with him.”
“Cassie, it's the same thing. You knew what would happen if you chose a human.” he said the word with a hint of disgust as his nose scrunched up and his eyes traced over the gunslinger.
Cas pushed the other dragon away, glaring, “That is my chosen mate you continue to disgrace. I've summoned you because you were my closest brother, we shared a strong bond, and I require assistance. But if you continue to disrespect my bond in such a manner I will no longer tolerate your company.”
Gabriel frowned at his brother, “Now Cas, there's no need for such animosity. I do not wish to challenge your bond. I wish only to assist my beloved brother.”
Cas continued to frown, but nodded, “We've encountered our rogue brother Lucifer. He's been causing the townspeople trouble.”
Gabriel smiled, “Ah, what you need then, is a weapon.”
Sam frowned, “A weapon? What kinda weapon is gonna help us against that kinda dark magic?”
“There is a gun. It's said to be forged with the fires of hell and the bullets melded with the blood of the four horsemen of the apocalypse; Famine, War, Pestilence, and Death. The gun can kill any manner of creature. You get my dear brother to agree to a gunfight, and that gun'll shoot him dead.”
Dean nodded along, then grunted, “But how do we get him to agree to that?”
Gabriel grinned, sharing a glance with Cas, “Our brother, Lucifer, was once thought to be the most beautiful of all our tribe. Every dragon wanted to bond with him. Even dragons of other tribes would visit baring gifts with the hopes of an audience with him. His feathers were as silky black as the night sky. But when he was the most beautiful was when he was in his human form. He was more graceful and free in his human form than any other dragon. He felt more comfortable in it in a way that no other dragon dares.” At this Dean glanced at Cas who avoided his stares, watching the wind bellowing up a gust of sand, Gabriel noticed the look and his grin widened. “He'll agree to the gunfight. If nothing to prove then he makes a more graceful human than an actual human. But y'all should be warned, he's the quickest draw on this side of the Mississippi.
Dean scoffed, “I'm the quickest draw this side o'the Mississippi. Haven't ya seen my wanted posters?” Dean grinned at Cas who continued to avoid his gaze, and then turned to his brother who scoffed. Bobby agreed with the sentiment.
“Well we'll see 'bout that. I can get ya'll the gun.”
Gabriel and Cas said their goodbyes, and Gabriel promised to return with the gun at sundown.
Dean was out of the cave practicing his quick draw, while Cas sat on watching, when his brother approached. “Dean, we should talk.”
“About what?” Dean grumbled.
Sam glared at the back of his brother's head, who refused to put down his gun and meet his eyes. “I think I should be the one to challenge Lucifer.”
Dean scoffed, “Yea, no way siree, I'm the quicker draw.” He holstered his gun and turned on his brother, glaring, “You're good kid, but y'know I can draw circles around ya.”
Bobby had joined the gang outside and sat beside Cas, watching the growing tempers with a keen eye, scoffing “idjits” under his breath. Cas turned his eyes on the older sheriff, about to implore him when he heard a loud cursing.
“Ain't gonna happen. No way. I'll get it done.” Dean was yelling at his brother who was scowling. Dean's face had taken on a redness that Cas was only familiar with seeing on very few occasions. Most of them has taken place in a bedroom. He was also waving his hands around wildly, most likely to foolishly emphasize his point. But the most worrisome thing was his hand kept grazing his holster. Cas knew Dean would never harm his brother, Dean placed a high regard on family, and his brother was the only flesh and blood he had left. That didn't mean he would threaten the poor lad to scare him out of harms way.
“But Dean! Lucifer wants me. Said so hisself. We can use that. We'll just make him believe I'm given in, then I'll shoot him dead.” Sam looked just as agitated. His normally slicked back hair was ruffled as if he'd been pushing at it for hours looking to stir up the courage to confront his brother. His hat had long gone, lost somewhere in the spirit of fight. His pristine white trousers were also sullied and worn. He didn't look much like a big time eastern lawyer anymore, and the family resemblance had never been more prominent.
Dean glared, “Exactly my sentiment! He wants ya! No way am I lettin him get his claws into ya. Not gonna happen.”
Sam sighed and looked over to the sheriff and dragon with a pleading in his eyes.
Bobby grumbled, “Ya idjit, would ya just listen to the boy?” Dean glared at the older man.
“All's I'm saying is, if we're up against this son of a bitch, we gotta play every card we got.” Bobby gave Dean a firm look. Dean grunted and averted his eyes.
Cas grasped his arm tightly and Dean turned to meet his partners eyes, “Whatta ya think Cas?”
Cas smiled softly, but it didn't reach his eyes as he cast them down quickly, “I think you're the quickest draw I've ever met. And you've got more heart than any other gunman. It's why I bonded with you.”
Dean patted Cas' hand that clutched to his arm and their eyes met a moment. Dean smiled softly before stepping away. He handed the gun to his brother, clasping his hands around his brother's that held the weapon, “Yer a lousy shot, but yer still ten times better than any other gunman I've ever met.”
Sam huffs, “I think you meant to pay me a compliment there.” The two of them grin at one another and Dean ruffled the hair at the back of his brother's head.
“Well looks like we've got a dragon to put down.” Cas let out a noisy breath at that and Dean pat his shoulder. “Family's not just blood.”
The next morning was a tense one. The Winchester brothers were not talking to one another, the sheriff was as gruff as ever, and Cas was looking sympathetic towards his partner.
The ride to Lucifer's lair seemed way too short. Dean was antsy, his hands itching to grab at his gun holster. Cas attempted to soothe him by cupping his hand in his own, but Dean shrugged it off. His brother could die today. His partner could die today. Dean would feel a lot more comfortable in their suicidal mission if he was the one pulling the trigger. Every time he glanced to his brother his jaw was set in a determined lock. He was fingering Gabriel's gun at his hip.
When they arrived at the alcove that Lucifer had claimed as his own he was waiting for them. The hellhounds were gone, but Lucifer looked imposing enough without them. He smirked. "Ah, Sam, my boy, it's good to see you again. But you didn't have to bring the old man and the delinquent." Dean looked like he was going to jump out of his saddle and jump at Lucifer, but Cas placed a hand on his chest pushing him back. "That's right, brother, you should keep your human whore in line." Lucifer grinned as if he was silently laughing at his own grin.
Samuel furrowed his brow. "My brother has no part in this. You wanted to negotiate with me, and so I am here to agree to your terms. However, I must insist that my brother, his partner, and the sheriff not be harmed."
Lucifer scoffed, "Oh Sam, Sam, Sam. What do you take me for?" His playful smile suddenly turned- his eyes were hollow, an empty looking gray, and his brows hung low in glare. "I know you have the gun. I'm surprised Gabriel agreed to help a human lover like you Castiel, and he refused all of my invitations."
Cas glared at his brother, "Dean is my bonded mate. If you're challenging our bond ..."
"Oh shut yer trap Cas. No one is challenging your bond. Stop getting so defensive." He smirked, "I'm just saying you've always been sympathetic to the neanderthals." Cas glared again but did not say anything further. "Yes I know your plan Sam. You think I can trust you as my partner after this obvious betrayal?" Lucifer's attention was back on Sam. Sam gutted his chin out in defiance. "But I think your plan is lovely actually. Quite romantic in my opinion. So I say we go with it. A quick draw, you and I, to the death." He smirked. "You win, and well, I'm dead. What you were hoping for. I win, and I kill your brother and that sheriff." He smirked at his brother. The unspoken, that Cas would die without his mate, hung heavy in the air.
Dean glared at Lucifer, just as Samuel nodded his assent. "Sam no! Lemme, yer plan didn't work, and you know that I'm quicker!"
Lucifer tsked, "Oh no. You don't really get a choice in the matter. You tried to trick me, and now Sam will face the consequences, and Dean will get to watch his brother die."
Dean was about to shout his protest when Sam raised his hand to quiet him, "There's no point Dean! Don't you see! He's got us in a corner." Sam dismounted his horse.
The others quickly dismounted as well, Dean tried to go after his brother, but Cas held him back by the arm. "I can't just let him go Cas."
Cas nodded, "I know. But you must. If he loses I'll protect you." Before Dean could protest Cas began transforming. Without bothering to disrobe first his clothes burst with the elongated limbs and enlarged chest. Soon Dean's dragon mate was standing before him, blocking him from seeing the showdown before him.
"Aww that's cute Cas, but you don't have a chance against me." Lucifer roared.
"Your quarrel is with me." Sam tried to redirect the older dragon's attention.
"So you are right."
The two stood several yards apart, and began pacing away from one another. The sheriff stood between them, swearing under his breath. They continued to face opposite directions, and Bobby stepped out of the shooting range, and began a count. "3 ... 2 ... 1 ... DRAW!" As he yelled the two swirled around, drawing their guns, and firing off shots at one another. They both grunted with impact, falling into the ground.
Bobby ran to Lucifer's side, just as his slumped corpse began to transform he put a set of fingers to his pulse, "He's dead." The sheriff declared.
Dean ran to his brother's side, who was spitting up blood, the bullet having pierced his chest. Sam stared into his brothers tearful eyes silently. Dean tried calling to his brother, placating him, and soothing him. Sam's eyes began to cloud over as he tried to keep focus on his brother. Cas, now in his human form, dropped down beside them. He placed a hand to Sam's chest and began muttering in the language that Dean recognized to be his native tongue. Dean couldn't decide who to watch as Cas' eyes began to shine and the area around the would began to redden. With his other hand Cas pulled the bullet from Sam's chest with two elongated claws. Dean didn't know that Cas was capable of partial transformations. Once the bullet was out the wound began to seal and Sam started to gasp. Dean grasped his head tightly and Cas continued to chant.
A warmth spread along Sam's skin, burning up through Dean's hands and he cursed as he pulled back his hand briefly, only to bring it back down again, forcing himself to hold on. Soon his skin began to cool and he opened his eyes, breathing heavily. “How are you feeling Sam?” Dean hadn't noticed when Cas stopped chanting, but he was back to normal, holding Sam's hand in his and looking into his eyes concerned.
“Uh, actually, I am good. How am I alive?” His eyes turned to Dean's.
“I healed you.” Before Cas could explain anything further, Dean threw himself at him, sealing their lips and throwing them back onto the ground. Sam groaned, but the two did not take notice of him, or the sheriff when he came to check on Sam too.
Dean quickly remembered how naked Cas was as the dragon began to come aroused from his attention. Dean pulled back enough to laugh into his neck, “I guess ya really weren't lyin about being physically attracted to me.”
Cas scowled at him, “Of course Dean, you're my bond mate ...” Dean didn't let him finish his explanation.
“And I don't want nothing to do with yer kind in my inn! Yer disruptive to my other guests.”
“Yea well, you're going to have a lot more trouble on your hands than just us if that dragon comes into your town!”
“He's here cause o' you! You and yer damn dragon partner!”
“O they're more than just business partners. The vile, dirty, ...”
Dean's face was red, about to explode, and Cas put a hand to his chest, pushing him back. “The dragon is not here because of Dean and I. He does not travel in a pack, in fact he's been exiled from our pack. He is very dangerous.”
“Yea an' you have no hope of gettin' rid of him without us. Besides I already sent word to my lawyer.”
“Lawyer? Watta ya need a lawyer fer?” Bobby suddenly looked a little anxious. His reaction was clearly of a man that himself did not get along with the law.
Dean grinned wickedly, “He's got a mean quick draw.” Cas snorted beside him.
Bobby and Ellen exchanged worried looks before Bobby nodded, “Fine, say we wait for this ere lawyer of yours? Then what?”
“You gather together a posse, and Ellen leads all the women and children out of the area. Maybe somewhere underground, there any caves nearby? Dragons don't like small spaces.” Cas snorted again in agreement.
Ellen frowned again at him. “Boy if you're puttin' a posse together there ain't nobody in this town that can handle a rifle like me.” She gave Dean a look that clearly said 'including you boy'. Dean almost shuddered at her gaze but tried to turn his attention to Bobby and away from the fierce innkeeper.
“You have anyone else in this town you can trust with the women?”
“My daughter'll do it.” Ellen said with a nod, as if suddenly making up her mind. “She won't be happy. But she'll do it. They can hide out in the mining shafts. Ain't nobody gonna be mining with a dragon pillaging neighbors.”
Bobby nodded, “Yea, an I'll gather up the boys. I think I needa drink.”
Dean nodded in agreement, “So ya gonna recede that bar from yer inn?”
It was a fortnight before Samuel Winchester arrived in town. By then all the women and children had been taken down into the mines for shelter and all the towns shops had been barred up. Most of the men that had stayed were holed up in the tavern, on edge and drunk from the close quarters and lack of women. The atmosphere was tense and the whole place would erupt at the drop of a hat. Someone would have already been shot if it hadn't been for Sheriff Singer pacifying the men with a harsh word and Ellen with drink. A few days after the barring one man had made a pass at Ellen and she'd stabbed his hand with a kitchen knife. No man had made a grab for her since, and they'd long accepted her as off limits. As she'd predicted, Ellen's daughter Jo had been resistant to be locked up with the “women and children”, citing that she knew her way around a rifle as good as any man out there. But Sheriff Singer had cajoled her into the task by explicating his need for a firm authority figure with a bite to protect the softer women. She'd been pleased with his assessment. The men of the town were particularly on edge with Cas' appearance. They knew Dean Winchester to be the infamous gunslinger who partnered with a dragon, and they'd seen him ride in on the beast's back, and they couldn't place that with the blue eyed man that now sat beside him. A few men had tried to stir up trouble with the ancient beast, but one look from his ancient eyes had set them tripping on their own boots to be away from him.
When Samuel Winchester arrived they were all on edge, even Cas was starting to become irritated with his human partner's restlessness. When he swung open the great doors to the tavern it was to a glass bottle swinging past his head. He ducked swiftly, avoiding the shattered glass, and stood to dust off his pristine white trousers and silver clasped vest. He looked very out of place in his dress whites with unscuffed silver tipped boots, and a white wide rimmed hat with long slicked back hair beneath. He had a very handsome and rugged face, but his city slick clothes diminished any prospect that he was roughened man that knew his way around a gunfight.
But anyone that judged Samuel Winchester based on first appearances would learn to regret their assumptions, as Sam had been raised by his notorious gunslinger brother since childhood. He could shoot as good as any thief and had a five second quick draw that could wipe the floor with the likes of the men currently inhabiting Ellen's tavern.
“I've had it up to here with all yer lyin and secrets! I know somethins' up with that blue eyes ofer der! You Bobby Singer ain't nothin but a drunkard! He has no right to be sheriffin' this town!” A disgruntled shout floated through the air, and a couple shots were let out, and a scuffle passed by. Samuel looked on dumbfounded as a couple of men rounded on the troublemaker in question and pulled him away, taking hold of his gun. There were shouts and grunts, and then Sam spotted his brother beside the bar. He made his way around the edge of the brawl and dropped himself into the stool beside his brother.
“I see yer still makin friends everywhere you an Cas getta.” He said with a nod to the crowd.
Dean grunted without tracking his eyes from the scene before him. The sheriff was currently cuffing the trouble maker and threatening anyone else that wanted to “question his authority”. Dean suddenly let out a grin as he turned to his brother and enveloped him in a bone crushing hug, “It's good to see ya Sam.”
His brother hugged him back tightly. “You too Dean. Even if it's not under more social circumstances.” He grinned and nodded to Cas from over his brother's shoulder. “I see yer still hanging around my no good brother Cas. Can't believe he corrupted a dragon as noble as yerself into his shenanigans.”
Sam held out his hand to shake Cas' as he pulled back from his brother. Cas stared at the hand, brows furrowing, “Your brother and I are bonded. I could not part from him for it would cause me physical discomfort to do so.”
Sam raised a surprised eyebrow to his brother, “bonded?” He asked in startlement.
Dean grunted before nodding to Cas who finally took Sam's hand into his own and just held it there briefly before Sam felt the need to pull away. Before anyone could speak further on the matter of bonding between humans and dragons Sheriff Singer and Ellen Harvelle were before the threesome, Ellen with her permanent glare in place and the Sheriff looking a bit worse for the wear.
“Mr. Winchester, I suppose this is your brother we've all been waiting for to come in with his fancy law degree and big brains to save us from our plight.” Ellen asked gruffly with a tilted eyebrow.
“Yes Mam, I'm the dimwit's brother.” Sam said as he removed his hat and bowed his head.
Ellen let out a sigh, “Well at least this one's got manners.” She held out her hand which Samuel took and placed a soft kiss to. “I'm Ellen Harvelle, owner of this establishment.”
“Then it's to you I owe my thanks for putting up my brother and his uh … dragon.” Sam said with a small smile.
Ellen smirked, “Oh I like this one. He's sure got a brain on his shoulders. You should meet my daughter when all this is over and done with. She'd make a fine wife, can cook and clean. Plus she's got a bit of an inheritance, mind you.” She said the last part at just above a whisper, her eyes darting around at possible spectators.
Sam, blushing fiercely, pulled his hand away and stammered. Dean let out a low chuckle. “Sorry sweet cheeks, but ya should know, that if you get one Winchester ya get them both.” Dean said with a lazy grin. Cas and Ellen both frowned at him, and Sam shook his head.
“Get we just get down to business. So what are we lookin' at this time brother?” Sam grumbled.
Dean sighed, “We've got an adult male dragon. Same tribe as Cas. Definitely inhospitable. Accordin' a Cas he's got some strong powers.”
Sam sighed, “Great. Why can't we ever get anything easy?”
Dean grunted, “Cause then we wouldn't be needed.”
The next mornin' they finally headed out. Most of the men had gone damn crazy holed up in the tavern for so long and were blessed to be freed. They hardly knew that that breath of air, or the next could be their very last. Most of the men in the posse had never even seen a dragon, let alone fought one. The Winchesters didn't like the odds, going up against an animal like that with inexperienced men was a death wish.
Dragons were a fierce, powerful, and proud race. They viewed human as inferior in most cases, and very few tribes actually aligned themselves with humans. Dean remembered when he had looked for a partner himself. Cas' tribe was known for their peaceful cohabitation with humans, and often would partner with them to fight off the evils of the world together. Although they were friendly towards humans, and even willing to work with them for the greater good, Dean was met with nothing but animosity the day he met with the tribe's elders to requisition a dragon partner. They had found him wanting, and unfit to be a dragon rider. They claimed he was uncivil, weak, and impudent. He was also judged too obtuse for the wisdom of their company. With that he was snubbed by the majority of the tribe, and left in a huff. It was a week later, when Dean was facing down the wrong end of a griffin, sadly wanting, that he was saved by the dark swoop of feathers, and the all too bright knowing blue eyes of an adult male dragon. He had thought the tribe elders had changed their mind and sent a dragon to be his partner, but he had later learned that Cas was out on a reconnaissance mission when he had sensed the evil creature's presence.
From then they formed an unlikely partnership, one that was disavowed by Cas' tribe. Dean often wondered what it was that had caused Cas to go against his own family so readily to support Dean. When they were bonded he was forbidden to ever return to the tribe. And all other dragons spurned him, even the tribes that were friendly towards humans.
Cas' brother, this Lucifer, must have done something to be shunned from the tribe. Quite frankly, Dean was afraid to ask. The two of them rode side by side, atop horseback. Sam thought it might be a good idea for Cas to stay in his human form till the last minute, in the hopes of surprising the other dragon. Neither Dean nor Cas said anything, but they both knew that Lucifer would be able to sense his brother coming regardless. The appearing human dragon, however, did ease some of the discomfort from the other men in the posse. It was best not to startle them too soon with the idea that they had a dragon in their own company.
Dean and Cas rode side by side, and Dean kept shooting glances towards his partner. After catching him watching too many times Cas finally sighed and said, “You may ask me what you're thinking.”
Dean frowned, “I wasn' thinkin' anything Cas.”
Cas glared at the outlaw, “Do not lie to me Dean. I can see into your soul.”
Dean grunted, “I was just thinkin' it might be best if we went into this with everything we got.”
Cas frowned at his partner, “Are you suggesting that I'm not contributing all my abilities to this endeavor?”
Dean furrowed his brow, “Cas y'know I hate it when you talk all righteous dragon at me. Speak plainly! All's I'm sayin' is, I think yer keepin somethin from me.”
Cas looked down at his steed, something a true dragon would never need. He clenched his jaw, “I, you want to know about why he was banned from the tribe, like me.” He looked at Dean, who nodded his assent. Castiel sighed before continuing, “He committed a grievous sin, practicing forbidden magics against the elders orders. His punishment was banishment or death.”
Dean grunted, “Should've saved us some trouble and went with the second.”
Cas sighed, “Dragons are a proud race, they'd rather die than face banishment most of the time.” Dean gritted his teeth with a sigh, hearing everything that Cas wouldn't say. He reached out and grasped Cas' hand into his own.
They rode the rest of the day side by side, their hands clutched together swinging between them.
According to the eye witness Lucifer's lair laid within the valley past the plains beyond town. It was well into the evening by the time they arrived at the location. Cas seemed to be tensing beside Dean, he threw him a cautious look but the dragon avoided his gaze. As they approached the valley Dean immediately knew why Cas was so uneasy.
Before they even got close to the lip of the valley the men heard menacing howls. They were unlike any creature most men would ever have the unfortune of hearing. Dean, however, was very familiar with the low screeching scowls that reverberated through your bones. "Hellhounds." He grunted.
Cas turned a frown Dean's way, "I'm sorry Dean. I should have warned you sooner. My brother seems to be employing them as guards."
Sam rode up beside his brother and Cas, "If those are hellhounds, like you say, then all these men are dead!"
Dean grunted, Bobby, who was now beside them as well looked between their stricken faces, pale faced, "What the hell was that?"
Sam looked to his brother, but it was obvious he was not going to respond. "They're hellhounds. Beasts born of the flames of hell. Summoned using dark magic. They'll defend their master at all costs. They're invisible to the human eye but can be heard. They'll tear ya limb from limb." Bobby looked even more ashen after the explanation.
"We should warn the posse. No man should be subjected to that against their will." Sam nodded, and Dean continued to frown. Howls shrilled through the air, closer than before. The horses were getting skittish, and their riders were muttering amongst themselves. Bobby turned to the posse, to warn them, but before he could get a word in there was a howl from directly to the right of them. One of the men cried out in a mix of surprise and pain. They all looked on in horror as his arm was ripped from his body by an invisible force and blood spurted down his side. His horse spooked, jostling the rider from steed and taking off. The man fell to the ground and the invisible beast began tearing at his flesh in strips. Shouts came from the rest of the men as they all took off in the direction they came from.
"It's too late now! There's no use running! Once they catch your scent you're dead!" Dean shouted over the screaming. Beside him Cas jumped from his horse, who skidded off after the others.
"I can see them. Get behind me." Cas ordered as he ripped his clothes off, his limbs beginning to transform as he did. Most of the men had abandoned them already, being chased down by hellhounds, leaving behind trails of blood and soiled flesh. Only Sam, Dean, Bobby, Cas, Ellen, and a young man with a scarf wrapped tightly around his face were left. They gathered their horses to huddle behind Cas, silencing them with a gentle hand to the muzzle. Dean dismounted and took up along Cas' side. The dragon growled at him, and although Dean understood what Cas was warning he ignored his partner - choosing to draw his gun and defend himself instead. Cas let out a growl, swiping at invisible beasts with it. Blood went spurting through the air in an arc, and Dean heard a howl of pain. He aimed his shot at the end of the trail of blood and was satisfied when he heard a low whimper.
Cas continued to knock the hellhounds around with his claws and Dean tried to follow his lead, shooting at the ones who survived the dragon's claws. The others caught on and soon started to arm themselves, shooting at invisible forces as well. It was impossible to tell if they were aiming in the right direction until they heard a whimper or growl from a hit target.
One hound got past the dragon and Dean's defenses and threw itself at the faceless man, tearing away the scarf adjourning him and ripping at his throat. Sam shot the beast before it could attack again, but the man slumped to the ground with a high pitched whimper. His face was revealed with the fabric gone, to show a young blonde woman. Ellen let out a sharp wail at the sight of her daughter, fallen on the dusty ground, her throat ripped from her neck. Ellen jumped from her horse, throwing herself on her daughter with a cry.
The hellhound Sam shot was not dead and it threw itself on the new victim, Ellen's arm was torn from her shoulder as she tried to reach her daughter's side to comfort her. She let out a sharp cry as a jaw sunk into her side. Bobby was at her side instantly, unloading a series of shots into the invisible beast who let out a blood curdling cry.
Ellen slumped over her daughter prone body, unmoving. Bobby knew better then to dismount to go to her side, not after watching what befell Ellen after she had.
Cas let out a low growl, and Dean nodded, shouting to the others, "We need to retreat. Cas can't handle this many." Cas let out a series of breaths of fire towards the direction the beasts had come from. It wouldn't hold them off long because they were born of flames.
Bobby shouted to Sam, "Help me get their bodies up." Sam dismounted and rushed to Bobby's side, helping him gather the bodies of their fallen comrades, while still trying to keep an eye out for further threats.
Suddenly they heard the yipping howls of the beasts retreating, and loud swish and roar hung in the air as a large beast, much larger than Castiel's dragon form, swooped out of the valley and landed before them. It let out a loud howl and swiftly transformed, much more fluidly than Dean had ever seen Cas transform. Beside him, Cas also began to retreat into his human form. Standing before them was a tall graceful man with glowing gray eyes that looked near black in the retreating light. He smirked playfully at the sight of them. “Ah brother. So good of you to visit me. And it looks like you've brought friends. And old sheriff, two women, a city boy, and your pretty little whore.”
Dean let out a growl of his own but Castiel stepped in front of him. Before either of them could make any remarks, however, Samuel spoke up. “We're here to stop your tormenting of the nearby townspeople. You've destroyed their crops, eaten their horses, and struck fear in the hearts of their women and children. I can not allow that to continue.”
A slick grin spread across the older dragons face. “Oh, this one's a plucky one. I like him. Maybe I should take guidance from my brother and take on a human mate of my own. What do you say Samuel? Would you like power beyond your greatest dreams? You're clearly a man of justice, we can spread our own justice to the world.” The dragon spread out his arms as he spoke and his wings burst from his shoulders, making him appear more majestic.
Dean grumbled, “He's not going anywhere with you!”
“Ah the protective older brother. Like you have a right to speak after stealing our youngest brother.” His smile turned to Castiel who tensed beside Dean, reaching out to create a contact point between him and his mate. Lucifer scoffed, “Think about it Samuel, we could have what your brother and his dragon have, only stronger. I'll be waiting when you have a response.” With that the dragon soared into the sky, still partially in human form - he transformed in mid-air. The humans in the group gaped on in wonderment until he sunk into the depths of the valley and out of the grasp of the human eye.
Once the bodies were gathered they retreated back in the direction they had come.
The company rode hard through the night, searching out a shelter to tend their wounds and recover through the night. Castiel remained in his dragon form, with Dean sat atop his back. There was no need for disguises now. They lead the others by scouting ahead in the skies till they spied a nice cave far beyond the plains and valley. Cas swooped down at the mouth of the cave, Dean hopping from his back and stroking a soothing hand up his spine.
Sam immediately dismounted and ran to help Bobby unload the bodies of his fallen friends. They would bury their bodies that night under the crescent moon for all the stars to see. Their spirits had long ago drifted, and the sheriff would say a prayer they would see heaven.
As Sam and Bobby saw to the dead, Dean lit a fire within the darkened cavern. Cas curled up along his partners side, resting his head on his thigh as the warmth seeped into his skin. He was born of fire, as all dragons were. They were naturally drawn to the flames and anything that resembled the golden hues. It was partially where the rumors of dragons having an ardor for gold came, that and they were a rich species. Dean knew it was a comfort for the dragon who was uneasy in closed spaces. Since their partnership began Cas had often found himself in positions that were uncommon for his species, but he trusted Dean.
“Dean, I think I should summon one of my brothers.” Cas said suddenly. Dean's fingers paused where they had been stroking through Cas' hair tenderly.
Dean scrunched up his face and sighed, “We're not going to call those assholes asking for help. Forget it Cas.”
“Dean, we have two dead, we're in hiding, and we don't have a plan. We need help. I have a brother that would be amenable to helping us.” Dean didn't reject him again, but he didn't consent either.
Cas stepped from the cave and carefully began stripping his clothes and folding them in a pile. Once he was completely naked he began to transform. His skin started to darken and become scaly, then his limb stretched out and curved into their dragon form, and two giant wings sprouted from his back. Once he was completely transformed he let out a loud wail into the sky. It sounded very sad to Dean, and he stood in the entry of the cave waiting. Cas tilted his head upward, his snout making whinnying noises that sounded almost like a horse. After several long minutes Cas transformed back into his human form and slumped onto the ground.
Dean came and sat beside him, placing his palm warmly between his shoulder blades. They sat in silence waiting and watching the sky darken. It was just before dusk when they both heard a roar in the distance. Dean turned to Cas, an eyebrow cocked, and found Cas smiling softly. Neither of them said anything until Sam and Sheriff Singer came out looking for them.
A large black scaled beast fell to the ground before the mouth of the cave, a burst of wind pushing in after him. Shortly after his great wings receded, and then his limbs, and finally his scales turned to skin. Standing before the dwindling posse was a naked man with glowing gold eyes. The men of the group grunted in displeasure and huffed as they averted their eyes, the sheriff let out an “Aw hell.”
The new dragon grinned, “Aww Cassie! It's so good to see you!” The man embraced Cas and rubbed their cheeks together, moaning his approval.
Cas' eyebrows furrowed, “Gabriel.”
“So what's the word?” His eyes skimmed over the other men present, and fell onto Dean, “So this the human you left yer family for?”
“I did not leave my family. I was disowned when I chose to bond with him.”
“Cassie, it's the same thing. You knew what would happen if you chose a human.” he said the word with a hint of disgust as his nose scrunched up and his eyes traced over the gunslinger.
Cas pushed the other dragon away, glaring, “That is my chosen mate you continue to disgrace. I've summoned you because you were my closest brother, we shared a strong bond, and I require assistance. But if you continue to disrespect my bond in such a manner I will no longer tolerate your company.”
Gabriel frowned at his brother, “Now Cas, there's no need for such animosity. I do not wish to challenge your bond. I wish only to assist my beloved brother.”
Cas continued to frown, but nodded, “We've encountered our rogue brother Lucifer. He's been causing the townspeople trouble.”
Gabriel smiled, “Ah, what you need then, is a weapon.”
Sam frowned, “A weapon? What kinda weapon is gonna help us against that kinda dark magic?”
“There is a gun. It's said to be forged with the fires of hell and the bullets melded with the blood of the four horsemen of the apocalypse; Famine, War, Pestilence, and Death. The gun can kill any manner of creature. You get my dear brother to agree to a gunfight, and that gun'll shoot him dead.”
Dean nodded along, then grunted, “But how do we get him to agree to that?”
Gabriel grinned, sharing a glance with Cas, “Our brother, Lucifer, was once thought to be the most beautiful of all our tribe. Every dragon wanted to bond with him. Even dragons of other tribes would visit baring gifts with the hopes of an audience with him. His feathers were as silky black as the night sky. But when he was the most beautiful was when he was in his human form. He was more graceful and free in his human form than any other dragon. He felt more comfortable in it in a way that no other dragon dares.” At this Dean glanced at Cas who avoided his stares, watching the wind bellowing up a gust of sand, Gabriel noticed the look and his grin widened. “He'll agree to the gunfight. If nothing to prove then he makes a more graceful human than an actual human. But y'all should be warned, he's the quickest draw on this side of the Mississippi.
Dean scoffed, “I'm the quickest draw this side o'the Mississippi. Haven't ya seen my wanted posters?” Dean grinned at Cas who continued to avoid his gaze, and then turned to his brother who scoffed. Bobby agreed with the sentiment.
“Well we'll see 'bout that. I can get ya'll the gun.”
Gabriel and Cas said their goodbyes, and Gabriel promised to return with the gun at sundown.
Dean was out of the cave practicing his quick draw, while Cas sat on watching, when his brother approached. “Dean, we should talk.”
“About what?” Dean grumbled.
Sam glared at the back of his brother's head, who refused to put down his gun and meet his eyes. “I think I should be the one to challenge Lucifer.”
Dean scoffed, “Yea, no way siree, I'm the quicker draw.” He holstered his gun and turned on his brother, glaring, “You're good kid, but y'know I can draw circles around ya.”
Bobby had joined the gang outside and sat beside Cas, watching the growing tempers with a keen eye, scoffing “idjits” under his breath. Cas turned his eyes on the older sheriff, about to implore him when he heard a loud cursing.
“Ain't gonna happen. No way. I'll get it done.” Dean was yelling at his brother who was scowling. Dean's face had taken on a redness that Cas was only familiar with seeing on very few occasions. Most of them has taken place in a bedroom. He was also waving his hands around wildly, most likely to foolishly emphasize his point. But the most worrisome thing was his hand kept grazing his holster. Cas knew Dean would never harm his brother, Dean placed a high regard on family, and his brother was the only flesh and blood he had left. That didn't mean he would threaten the poor lad to scare him out of harms way.
“But Dean! Lucifer wants me. Said so hisself. We can use that. We'll just make him believe I'm given in, then I'll shoot him dead.” Sam looked just as agitated. His normally slicked back hair was ruffled as if he'd been pushing at it for hours looking to stir up the courage to confront his brother. His hat had long gone, lost somewhere in the spirit of fight. His pristine white trousers were also sullied and worn. He didn't look much like a big time eastern lawyer anymore, and the family resemblance had never been more prominent.
Dean glared, “Exactly my sentiment! He wants ya! No way am I lettin him get his claws into ya. Not gonna happen.”
Sam sighed and looked over to the sheriff and dragon with a pleading in his eyes.
Bobby grumbled, “Ya idjit, would ya just listen to the boy?” Dean glared at the older man.
“All's I'm saying is, if we're up against this son of a bitch, we gotta play every card we got.” Bobby gave Dean a firm look. Dean grunted and averted his eyes.
Cas grasped his arm tightly and Dean turned to meet his partners eyes, “Whatta ya think Cas?”
Cas smiled softly, but it didn't reach his eyes as he cast them down quickly, “I think you're the quickest draw I've ever met. And you've got more heart than any other gunman. It's why I bonded with you.”
Dean patted Cas' hand that clutched to his arm and their eyes met a moment. Dean smiled softly before stepping away. He handed the gun to his brother, clasping his hands around his brother's that held the weapon, “Yer a lousy shot, but yer still ten times better than any other gunman I've ever met.”
Sam huffs, “I think you meant to pay me a compliment there.” The two of them grin at one another and Dean ruffled the hair at the back of his brother's head.
“Well looks like we've got a dragon to put down.” Cas let out a noisy breath at that and Dean pat his shoulder. “Family's not just blood.”
The next morning was a tense one. The Winchester brothers were not talking to one another, the sheriff was as gruff as ever, and Cas was looking sympathetic towards his partner.
The ride to Lucifer's lair seemed way too short. Dean was antsy, his hands itching to grab at his gun holster. Cas attempted to soothe him by cupping his hand in his own, but Dean shrugged it off. His brother could die today. His partner could die today. Dean would feel a lot more comfortable in their suicidal mission if he was the one pulling the trigger. Every time he glanced to his brother his jaw was set in a determined lock. He was fingering Gabriel's gun at his hip.
When they arrived at the alcove that Lucifer had claimed as his own he was waiting for them. The hellhounds were gone, but Lucifer looked imposing enough without them. He smirked. "Ah, Sam, my boy, it's good to see you again. But you didn't have to bring the old man and the delinquent." Dean looked like he was going to jump out of his saddle and jump at Lucifer, but Cas placed a hand on his chest pushing him back. "That's right, brother, you should keep your human whore in line." Lucifer grinned as if he was silently laughing at his own grin.
Samuel furrowed his brow. "My brother has no part in this. You wanted to negotiate with me, and so I am here to agree to your terms. However, I must insist that my brother, his partner, and the sheriff not be harmed."
Lucifer scoffed, "Oh Sam, Sam, Sam. What do you take me for?" His playful smile suddenly turned- his eyes were hollow, an empty looking gray, and his brows hung low in glare. "I know you have the gun. I'm surprised Gabriel agreed to help a human lover like you Castiel, and he refused all of my invitations."
Cas glared at his brother, "Dean is my bonded mate. If you're challenging our bond ..."
"Oh shut yer trap Cas. No one is challenging your bond. Stop getting so defensive." He smirked, "I'm just saying you've always been sympathetic to the neanderthals." Cas glared again but did not say anything further. "Yes I know your plan Sam. You think I can trust you as my partner after this obvious betrayal?" Lucifer's attention was back on Sam. Sam gutted his chin out in defiance. "But I think your plan is lovely actually. Quite romantic in my opinion. So I say we go with it. A quick draw, you and I, to the death." He smirked. "You win, and well, I'm dead. What you were hoping for. I win, and I kill your brother and that sheriff." He smirked at his brother. The unspoken, that Cas would die without his mate, hung heavy in the air.
Dean glared at Lucifer, just as Samuel nodded his assent. "Sam no! Lemme, yer plan didn't work, and you know that I'm quicker!"
Lucifer tsked, "Oh no. You don't really get a choice in the matter. You tried to trick me, and now Sam will face the consequences, and Dean will get to watch his brother die."
Dean was about to shout his protest when Sam raised his hand to quiet him, "There's no point Dean! Don't you see! He's got us in a corner." Sam dismounted his horse.
The others quickly dismounted as well, Dean tried to go after his brother, but Cas held him back by the arm. "I can't just let him go Cas."
Cas nodded, "I know. But you must. If he loses I'll protect you." Before Dean could protest Cas began transforming. Without bothering to disrobe first his clothes burst with the elongated limbs and enlarged chest. Soon Dean's dragon mate was standing before him, blocking him from seeing the showdown before him.
"Aww that's cute Cas, but you don't have a chance against me." Lucifer roared.
"Your quarrel is with me." Sam tried to redirect the older dragon's attention.
"So you are right."
The two stood several yards apart, and began pacing away from one another. The sheriff stood between them, swearing under his breath. They continued to face opposite directions, and Bobby stepped out of the shooting range, and began a count. "3 ... 2 ... 1 ... DRAW!" As he yelled the two swirled around, drawing their guns, and firing off shots at one another. They both grunted with impact, falling into the ground.
Bobby ran to Lucifer's side, just as his slumped corpse began to transform he put a set of fingers to his pulse, "He's dead." The sheriff declared.
Dean ran to his brother's side, who was spitting up blood, the bullet having pierced his chest. Sam stared into his brothers tearful eyes silently. Dean tried calling to his brother, placating him, and soothing him. Sam's eyes began to cloud over as he tried to keep focus on his brother. Cas, now in his human form, dropped down beside them. He placed a hand to Sam's chest and began muttering in the language that Dean recognized to be his native tongue. Dean couldn't decide who to watch as Cas' eyes began to shine and the area around the would began to redden. With his other hand Cas pulled the bullet from Sam's chest with two elongated claws. Dean didn't know that Cas was capable of partial transformations. Once the bullet was out the wound began to seal and Sam started to gasp. Dean grasped his head tightly and Cas continued to chant.
A warmth spread along Sam's skin, burning up through Dean's hands and he cursed as he pulled back his hand briefly, only to bring it back down again, forcing himself to hold on. Soon his skin began to cool and he opened his eyes, breathing heavily. “How are you feeling Sam?” Dean hadn't noticed when Cas stopped chanting, but he was back to normal, holding Sam's hand in his and looking into his eyes concerned.
“Uh, actually, I am good. How am I alive?” His eyes turned to Dean's.
“I healed you.” Before Cas could explain anything further, Dean threw himself at him, sealing their lips and throwing them back onto the ground. Sam groaned, but the two did not take notice of him, or the sheriff when he came to check on Sam too.
Dean quickly remembered how naked Cas was as the dragon began to come aroused from his attention. Dean pulled back enough to laugh into his neck, “I guess ya really weren't lyin about being physically attracted to me.”
Cas scowled at him, “Of course Dean, you're my bond mate ...” Dean didn't let him finish his explanation.