I thought I might start off this new chapter in my writing career by sharing an old spec script that I wrote for the TV show Supernatural five years ago. I'm trying to be more active in my blogging, and I thought this might be the way to do it.
Schism is one of four scripts that I wrote at the time, and if you're a Supernatural fan, then maybe you'll enjoy it. Two of my Supernatural specs had placed well in a few screenwriting competitions. This wasn't one of them, haha. But I still like it, and the series has progressed to a point where this particular episode wouldn't currently fit into the story. In 2013 it would have.
If you're a Supernatural fan, and if you like it, maybe you'll enjoy reading one of the two books I have available at Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble or other online retailers. Both The Schoharie and Perfect Prophet are supernatural horror/thrillers, and by "supernatural," I mean the genre, not the TV show.
Warning: This is a dark episode that addresses suicide in an unflinching way. You should know that ahead of time. Also, apologies for any missed formatting issues. The text conversion from Final Draft to this blog space was wonky, and I had to make limited fixes line by line.
And if you do read it, thanks for supporting my work!
SUPERNATURAL
"Schism"
Written by
Diane M. Johnson
Dean tries to break through to Sam who is trapped in a dream
world believing himself to be schizophrenic.
SERIES SPEC
FIRST DRAFT
Phone: 02 19, 2013
Website: www.dianemjohnson.com
CAST
SAM WINCHESTER
DEAN WINCHESTER
JESS WINCHESTER
LISA WINCHESTER
CASTIEL
CROWLEY
LUCIFER
DJINN
TEASER
Fade In:
EXT. LAKE SIDE - NIGHT
A small log cabin nestled within the woods just short of the shore. A dock stretches out across the water.
At its farthest end, a body floats face down.
UNDER WATER
A closer look at the floater. It’s SAM WINCHESTER. Eyes fixed, face placid. He’s taken his last breath.
FROM ABOVE HIM
Slender arms dip in. They struggle to pull him up.
BACK ON THE DOCK
A WOMAN rolls Sam onto the dock. Her face obscured by long locks as she frantically administers CPR.
WOMAN
Don’t you do this, Sam! Don’t you
do it.
Mouth to mouth, compressions, mouth to mouth. She sobs between each set, about to give up when Sam spits up water, chokes on more as he takes in oxygen.
WOMAN (CONT'D)
Oh God! Thank God!
She hugs him too tight as two others, Sam’s brother DEAN and his wife LISA, roused from sleep, rush out of the cabin toward the dock.
WOMAN (CONT'D)
Are you alright? Tell me you’re
alright.
Are you alright? Tell me you’re
alright.
Sam focuses. Gets a good look at the woman who just saved his life. Panic. The woman is JESS. The love of his life who’s been dead for ten years. He tries to slip away from her.
WOMAN/JESS
No, Sam. It’s okay honey--
DEAN
Sam?! What happened! Tell me what
happened--
No, Sam. It’s okay honey--
DEAN
Sam?! What happened! Tell me what
happened--
SAM
--Get away from me!
--Get away from me!
JESS
Sam, please--
Sam, please--
SAM
--This isn’t real! This can’t be
real.
--This isn’t real! This can’t be
real.
JESS
This wasn’t supposed to happen! You
were better!
This wasn’t supposed to happen! You
were better!
Dean steps in between them. His presence seems to calm Sam a little bit. Dean takes firm hold of Jess.
DEAN
Go back inside. I’ve got this.
Go back inside. I’ve got this.
Jess tries to push past him. He holds her at bay, glances over his shoulder for some help.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Lisa?
Lisa?
LISA
Come on, Jess. It’s okay.
Come on, Jess. It’s okay.
Lisa wraps a comforting arm around Jess and guides her back toward the cabin.
Dean settles in beside his brother as Sam tries to breathe.
DEAN
You okay? You alright, now?
You okay? You alright, now?
Sam shakes his head, completely lost and confused.
SAM
What is this? What is going on
here?
What is this? What is going on
here?
DEAN
It's a vacation, right? A little R
and R from the real world--
It's a vacation, right? A little R
and R from the real world--
SAM
--This isn’t real. It’s a trick.
Lucifer. Or a Djinn--
DEAN
--A jinn. What’s a ‘jinn?’
--This isn’t real. It’s a trick.
Lucifer. Or a Djinn--
DEAN
--A jinn. What’s a ‘jinn?’
Sam stares up, even more troubled. He shies away from his brother.
DEAN (CONT'D)
It’s alright. Ease up, calm down--
It’s alright. Ease up, calm down--
SAM
--This isn’t happening!
--This isn’t happening!
DEAN
You’re right. Whatever you think
this is... is worse than what it
really is. Understand?
You’re right. Whatever you think
this is... is worse than what it
really is. Understand?
Dean places a steady hand on Sam’s shoulder. Sam breathes.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Better?
Better?
Sam nods.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Good. Now be honest with me. Was
this an attempt? Another one?
Because you tear Jess apart every
time--
Good. Now be honest with me. Was
this an attempt? Another one?
Because you tear Jess apart every
time--
SAM
Wait, you think I--... Suicide? No!
No--
Wait, you think I--... Suicide? No!
No--
DEAN
--Then what. Did you slip? Forget
how to swim? Or did you skip a
dose? The meds keep you on track.
You know that--
--Then what. Did you slip? Forget
how to swim? Or did you skip a
dose? The meds keep you on track.
You know that--
SAM
--I’m not on any ‘meds!’ And Jess
is dead! Ten years, now!
--I’m not on any ‘meds!’ And Jess
is dead! Ten years, now!
DEAN
Right. Ten years. Ten years of
managing.
Right. Ten years. Ten years of
managing.
SAM
Managing what? You’re not back with
Lisa!... Are you?
Managing what? You’re not back with
Lisa!... Are you?
Sam tries to remember, gets all the more confused. Dean inhales patience.
DEAN
This is gonna be okay. It always
turns out okay. Come on--
DEAN
This is gonna be okay. It always
turns out okay. Come on--
Dean tries to help Sam up, but Sam shrugs him off.
SAM
--You’re not my brother--
--You’re not my brother--
DEAN
--And who am I this time? An
‘angel?’ A ‘demon?’ What?!
--And who am I this time? An
‘angel?’ A ‘demon?’ What?!
Sam shakes his head, fights back tears.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Sam, I can’t help with this if you
won’t let me in--
Sam, I can’t help with this if you
won’t let me in--
SAM
--‘This’ is cruel.
--‘This’ is cruel.
Dean tries to comfort Sam again, but Sam shirks him off.
SAM (CONT'D)
I know who you are! And I know what
you’re doing.
I know who you are! And I know what
you’re doing.
DEAN
Okay... If you know who I am, and
if this isn’t ‘real’... then maybe
it’s best if you just play along.
Okay... If you know who I am, and
if this isn’t ‘real’... then maybe
it’s best if you just play along.
Dean offers his hand. Sam glares at it.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Come on. We’ll go back to the
cabin, you’ll get some rest.
Everything will be better in the
morning.
Come on. We’ll go back to the
cabin, you’ll get some rest.
Everything will be better in the
morning.
Sam caves. He grabs Dean’s hand, allows himself to be helped off the dock.
SUPERNATURAL
END OF TEASER
ACT ONE
INT. CABIN - BEDROOM - DAY
Sam sits on the edge of the bed, bathed in fresh morning sunlight as he stares out the window.
His fingers trace aged scars along the length of an exposed wrist. The scars look deep, jagged.
He closes his eyes, a prayer on his lips.
His fingers trace aged scars along the length of an exposed wrist. The scars look deep, jagged.
He closes his eyes, a prayer on his lips.
SAM
Castiel, if you can hear me... If
you can find me, I need you... I
can’t live through this...
nightmare. I can’t, Cass.
Castiel, if you can hear me... If
you can find me, I need you... I
can’t live through this...
nightmare. I can’t, Cass.
A KNOCK on the open door startles him. It’s Jess. Sam pulls his sleeve down over his scars.
JESS
I brought you some coffee.
I brought you some coffee.
She hands him a steaming mug before gingerly placing a prescription bottle on the night stand.
Sam stares deeply into the mug as Jess settles beside him.
Sam stares deeply into the mug as Jess settles beside him.
JESS (CONT'D)
So, prayers to ‘Castiel.’ That’s
good.
So, prayers to ‘Castiel.’ That’s
good.
SAM
Is it?
JESS
I could do without our life being
compared to a nightmare, but yes.
Prayer is hope. Even if it is only
to the ‘Angel of Thursday.’
I could do without our life being
compared to a nightmare, but yes.
Prayer is hope. Even if it is only
to the ‘Angel of Thursday.’
Sam almost smiles. He sets the mug beside the waiting bottle of pills.
SAM
We met on a Thursday.
Jess beams. She scoops his hand up in her own, lets her
shoulder caress his shoulder.
JESS
You remember that? Is that why you
always pray to him instead of some
other better known angel? Like
Michael, or... St. Peter?
We met on a Thursday.
Jess beams. She scoops his hand up in her own, lets her
shoulder caress his shoulder.
JESS
You remember that? Is that why you
always pray to him instead of some
other better known angel? Like
Michael, or... St. Peter?
SAM
I think Michael would be happy to
see me dead.
I think Michael would be happy to
see me dead.
He laughs a little. But not Jess. She grips Sam’s hand tighter, the light moment gone.
SAM (CONT'D)
You don’t know how much I wish this
was real.
You don’t know how much I wish this
was real.
Jess pulls Sam’s hand up to caress her face.
JESS
This is real, Sam. Our life is
real. And the demons that haunt
you? They don’t exist.
This is real, Sam. Our life is
real. And the demons that haunt
you? They don’t exist.
She guides him into a stiff embrace before he gives into it wholeheartedly. He shuts his eyes tight, lost in her touch.
JESS (CONT'D)
And it’s a good life, right? You,
me, Ruby--
And it’s a good life, right? You,
me, Ruby--
Sam pulls open his eyes, the beautiful Jess in his arms no longer there. Instead, she’s the last image of Jess he ever saw. A charred, monstrous thing stretching it’s bony arms out to once again trap him.
Sam launches off the bed, as far away from Jess as the walls will allow.
JESS (CONT'D)
Sam?-
Sam?-
He turns back to face her. No charred corpse woman, just Jess full of worry. Sam recovers.
SAM
Ruby? Really? Do you think I’m that
stupid?
Ruby? Really? Do you think I’m that
stupid?
JESS
Stop it! This is why you scare her--
SAM
Scare her?! She used me! And tried
to kill me! You’re not doing this--
Stop it! This is why you scare her--
SAM
Scare her?! She used me! And tried
to kill me! You’re not doing this--
JESS
Doing what--
Doing what--
SAM
--You’re not getting inside my head
and twisting reality. Ruby is dead--
--You’re not getting inside my head
and twisting reality. Ruby is dead--
JESS
--She’s your daughter--
--She’s your daughter--
SAM
--I don’t have a daughter!
--I don’t have a daughter!
Jess nods, disappointed.
JESS
She’s five, Sam. And it’s getting
harder and harder to explain why
you do the things you do.
She’s five, Sam. And it’s getting
harder and harder to explain why
you do the things you do.
Jess grabs Sam’s arm, pulls up the sleeve to expose his scars.
JESS (CONT'D)
When she walked in on this? At age
three? You don’t ‘have a daughter’
because you push her away!
When she walked in on this? At age
three? You don’t ‘have a daughter’
because you push her away!
Sam glares. Jess grabs his prescription off the night stand, holds it out for him.
JESS (CONT'D)
Take your meds.
Take your meds.
He reaches for the bottle, but she pulls back. Jess pops off the cap, pulls out a single pill.
JESS (CONT'D)
Just one.
Just one.
He takes it. And she waits for him to pop it in his mouth. Tears in her eyes, she heads out the door with the pills still in her possession. She passes Dean who quietly watches Sam from the hall.
Sam leans over the dresser, exhausted. He fishes the pill out of his mouth and tosses it. A wallet grabs his attention. His wallet. He leafs through it, finds a photo of himself and his family - smiling faces that include Jess and a pretty little girl, RUBY.
Dean gives a solid rap against the door jamb. It startles Sam. He closes up the wallet.
Dean gives a solid rap against the door jamb. It startles Sam. He closes up the wallet.
DEAN
Breakfast.
Breakfast.
SAM
Yep.
Yep.
DEAN
You okay?
You okay?
SAM
Yep.
Yep.
DEAN
Maybe we can hike up to the point
later. Just you and me.
Maybe we can hike up to the point
later. Just you and me.
It’s not a suggestion. Sam gives a curt nod, lets Dean get a lead before he follows him out the door.
INT. CABIN - KITCHEN
Lisa mans the frying pan as Dean greets her from behind. A quick hug around the waist, a kiss beside her ear and a whisper.
DEAN
He’s not taking his meds.
He’s not taking his meds.
LISA
Then we cut the vacation short. Get
him back home--
Then we cut the vacation short. Get
him back home--
DEAN
--I’ll handle it.
--I’ll handle it.
LISA
It’s not your problem.
It’s not your problem.
DEAN
It is my problem. It’s always been
my problem. You knew that before
you married me.
It is my problem. It’s always been
my problem. You knew that before
you married me.
Another kiss before Lisa spots Sam listening. She forces a smile.
LISA
Hey Sam! Spinach omelets. Your
favorite, right?
Hey Sam! Spinach omelets. Your
favorite, right?
Sam looks away, toward the open front door that leads to the porch. Jess stands out there, hugs herself against the morning chill. She brushes tears from her face as she takes in the lake.
LATER
Sam sits isolated at the head of the table while Jess, Lisa and Dean watch him pretend to eat. He finally takes a mouthful for Lisa’s benefit. They start eating too.
SAM
So... How long has it been? Since
you and Lisa got married?
So... How long has it been? Since
you and Lisa got married?
Dean looks at him curiously. Then he shrugs and goes with it.
DEAN
What’s it, like six years now?
What’s it, like six years now?
LISA
Six years.
Six years.
DEAN
Ben’s like, a ‘teenager.’ When did
that happen!
Ben’s like, a ‘teenager.’ When did
that happen!
LISA
And too much like his Dad.
And too much like his Dad.
Lisa grins and nudges Dean’s shoulder.
DEAN
Man, I am not looking forward to
it! Hey, remember Dad? He dreaded
the teenage years. Not that I blame
him.
Man, I am not looking forward to
it! Hey, remember Dad? He dreaded
the teenage years. Not that I blame
him.
SAM
Right.
Right.
DEAN
At least it’s not like having
teenage girls, right ladies? That’s
a whole different kind of hell.
Hope you’re looking forward to it,
Sammy.
At least it’s not like having
teenage girls, right ladies? That’s
a whole different kind of hell.
Hope you’re looking forward to it,
Sammy.
Dean pats Sam on the shoulder, lets the comforting touch linger before he changes the subject.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Eat up. You’re going to need the
energy to beat my ass to the top.
Eat up. You’re going to need the
energy to beat my ass to the top.
Sam takes another bite.
EXT. MOUNTAINSIDE - DAY
Sam and Dean hike up through wooded area, Dean in the lead. Sam steps with caution. Double takes toward every suspicious shadow.
They break from the trees into stunning sunlight. Dean grins, points to a high peak still a good distance away.
DEAN
Half way there.
Half way there.
He’s off again.
Leaves Sam blinded by the light. Sam lets his eyes adjust. A glimpse over his shoulder, and he spots a man watching him.
It’s LUCIFER. Satan. An average man if it weren’t for the evil smirk on his face.
Sam takes a breath. Focuses on catching up with Dean.
EXT. MOUNTAINSIDE - PEAK - LATER
Dean drops his pack, marvels at the view beneath his feet. He throws his arms up as Sam brings up the rear.
DEAN
Beautiful, right? I’m king of the
world! DiCaprio’s a poser!
Beautiful, right? I’m king of the
world! DiCaprio’s a poser!
He pulls out his water bottle, a pair of binoculars, settles on a boulder.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Come on, Sam. Pull up a rock and
we’ll chat.
Come on, Sam. Pull up a rock and
we’ll chat.
Sam seats himself on the second half of the rock. He takes in the scenery as Dean offers him a swig from his bottle. Sam declines.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Stay hydrated. You’ll thank me
later.
Stay hydrated. You’ll thank me
later.
Sam pulls out his own canteen, takes a swig. Dean raises the binoculars to his eyes. Below, an
unobstructed view of the cabin and the dock.
THROUGH BINOCULARS
unobstructed view of the cabin and the dock.
THROUGH BINOCULARS
Lisa and Jess lay out on the dock. Swimsuits and sunscreen.
Dean grins.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Looks like the girls are taking in
the sun. All we need is a little
skinny dip action, and we’ve got
ourselves some free soft core--
Looks like the girls are taking in
the sun. All we need is a little
skinny dip action, and we’ve got
ourselves some free soft core--
SAM
--Stop.
--Stop.
DEAN
Come on, Sam. Look what God has
given us. Perfect day, perfect
sights, perfect world--
Come on, Sam. Look what God has
given us. Perfect day, perfect
sights, perfect world--
SAM
--Since when do you give any credit
to God.
--Since when do you give any credit
to God.
Dean sets the binoculars down. Casual demeanor gone.
DEAN
You know what? You’re right. Let’s
stop dancing around why we’re here
and get down to business.
You know what? You’re right. Let’s
stop dancing around why we’re here
and get down to business.
SAM
It doesn’t matter what you say
because none of this exists.
It doesn’t matter what you say
because none of this exists.
DEAN
That’s the schitzo talking--
That’s the schitzo talking--
SAM
--I’m not schizophrenic!
--I’m not schizophrenic!
DEAN
Then what. What is it. Should we go
through the checklist again? One, a
problem telling the difference
between reality and fantasy.
Then what. What is it. Should we go
through the checklist again? One, a
problem telling the difference
between reality and fantasy.
Sam shakes his head.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Two. Hallucinations. Three.
Depression! Four. Suicidal--
SAM
--Are you trying to set me off?!
Two. Hallucinations. Three.
Depression! Four. Suicidal--
SAM
--Are you trying to set me off?!
DEAN
Five. Anger issues!
Five. Anger issues!
SAM
Well, then you-- You’re not far
behind me.
Well, then you-- You’re not far
behind me.
DEAN
Did you sleep last night?
Did you sleep last night?
SAM
No.
No.
DEAN
Six. We go through this every
couple of years because you get it
in your head that you’re supposed
to suffer! And that none of this
can be real--
Six. We go through this every
couple of years because you get it
in your head that you’re supposed
to suffer! And that none of this
can be real--
SAM
--It’s not. It’s a mind game. I
could be sleeping for all I know.
Or in a coma. Or back in hell--
--It’s not. It’s a mind game. I
could be sleeping for all I know.
Or in a coma. Or back in hell--
DEAN
--You were never there! Listen to
me! You have a good life. People
care about you--
--You were never there! Listen to
me! You have a good life. People
care about you--
SAM
--Until they die.
--Until they die.
DEAN
Who is dead here? Mom? You weren’t
even old enough to remember that. I
was... So why don’t I see the
horrible life that you do?
Who is dead here? Mom? You weren’t
even old enough to remember that. I
was... So why don’t I see the
horrible life that you do?
SAM
What about Dad?
What about Dad?
DEAN
He’s got issues. But he manages. We
all learn to manage, Sam. You need
to learn too.
He’s got issues. But he manages. We
all learn to manage, Sam. You need
to learn too.
Sam goes silent. Doubt creeping through his brow. He shakes it free.
SAM
It’s too perfect. Me and Jess? You
and Lisa--
It’s too perfect. Me and Jess? You
and Lisa--
DEAN
--It wasn’t perfect getting here.
But right now? It’s nice. Why can’t
you accept that?
--It wasn’t perfect getting here.
But right now? It’s nice. Why can’t
you accept that?
SAM
Because Lisa and Ben don’t even
know you--
Because Lisa and Ben don’t even
know you--
DEAN
--So you’re the poster child for
meaningful relationships, now? Is
that it? When I found out that she
lied about the DNA test, Ben became
mine. He’s my son! And I did the
right thing, and we are happy, Sam!
We are happy! In fact, the only
thing that stops this from being my
perfect world is you!
--So you’re the poster child for
meaningful relationships, now? Is
that it? When I found out that she
lied about the DNA test, Ben became
mine. He’s my son! And I did the
right thing, and we are happy, Sam!
We are happy! In fact, the only
thing that stops this from being my
perfect world is you!
Sam leans back, stung by the accusation. Dean keeps the momentum going.
DEAN (CONT'D)
In fact, the only thing that keeps
Jess, and Ruby and even Dad from
being happy is you!
In fact, the only thing that keeps
Jess, and Ruby and even Dad from
being happy is you!
SAM
Stop.
Stop.
DEAN
You need to hear it. And Jess, the
way she’s stood by you? Wow! I
wouldn’t have done it.
You need to hear it. And Jess, the
way she’s stood by you? Wow! I
wouldn’t have done it.
SAM
You have done it.
You have done it.
DEAN
If I wasn’t your brother it would
be different.
If I wasn’t your brother it would
be different.
Dean slips his hand into a pocket. He holds out his palm, a pill resting there.
DEAN (CONT'D)
I know that you don’t want to be
the reason we’re all miserable.
This will change that.
SAM
So you want me to be numb? Just
take my little pills and zone out?
Like you and your ‘water?’
I know that you don’t want to be
the reason we’re all miserable.
This will change that.
SAM
So you want me to be numb? Just
take my little pills and zone out?
Like you and your ‘water?’
Dean regards his bottle.
DEAN
It’s water--
It’s water--
SAM
--It’s vodka. Or at least it would
be if this was actually happening.
--It’s vodka. Or at least it would
be if this was actually happening.
Dean takes a swig of his ‘water.’ He holds out his hand again.
DEAN
Take the pill, Sam.
Take the pill, Sam.
SAM
No--
No--
DEAN
--Take it. Because if you don’t? I
will shove it down your throat.
--Take it. Because if you don’t? I
will shove it down your throat.
A stare off. Then Sam turns to leave. Dean grabs him by the shoulder, turns him back. A solid blow across the face.
Sam goes down, finds Dean on top of him. Struggling. Another punch that dazes him.
Dean drops the pill down Sam’s throat. Clamps his hand over Sam’s mouth.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Swallow it! Swallow!
Swallow it! Swallow!
Sam fights it. But Dean wins out. Dean pulls his hand free, watches Sam deal with the loss.
SMASH CUT:
EXT. DIRTY ALLEY - REALITY - NIGHT
This is reality. Sam, prone on the ground barely conscious. His eyes rolled back with the whites showing.
Dean leans over him in a panic. Tries to feed him blood from a flask.
DEAN
Come on, Sam! Drink it! Swallow!
The blood hits Sam’s mouth, but nothing changes. His eyes still rolled back.
DEAN (CONT'D)
It’s not working... Crowley, it’s
not working!
It’s not working... Crowley, it’s
not working!
Footsteps close in. Dean sees their approach. Three tattooed DJINN returning to reclaim their meal.
Dean pulls a silver knife from his belt, douses it with the blood from the flask. The Djinn stop in their tracks.
Dean pulls a silver knife from his belt, douses it with the blood from the flask. The Djinn stop in their tracks.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Okay, which one gets skewered
first?
Okay, which one gets skewered
first?
DJINN #1
That’s not much of a threat without
lamb’s blood.
That’s not much of a threat without
lamb’s blood.
DEAN
Oh, it’s lamb’s blood. I
slaughtered it myself.
Oh, it’s lamb’s blood. I
slaughtered it myself.
DJINN #1
Nice try, Winchester. But I can
smell it.
Nice try, Winchester. But I can
smell it.
DEAN
Well, you don’t know... what else I
have up my sleeve.
Well, you don’t know... what else I
have up my sleeve.
The leader of the Djinn looks unimpressed. She signals the other two to close in.
A hand grabs Dean’s shoulder. It’s CASTIEL, the trenchcoat clad angel of Thursday. Castiel pulls Dean down, grabs hold of Sam and makes the three of them disappear.
FADE OUT:
ACT TWO
INT. CABIN - BEDROOM - REALITY - DAY
It’s the same cabin in Sam’s alternate reality. Sam lies on the bed, comatose.
Castiel watches Dean fret at Sam’s bedside.
DEAN
How did you know where to find us?
How did you know where to find us?
CASTIEL
Even in a coma Sam isn’t afraid to
pray.
Even in a coma Sam isn’t afraid to
pray.
Dean ignores the inference.
DEAN
He’s been missing for days. God
knows how deep the poison goes.
He’s been missing for days. God
knows how deep the poison goes.
CASTIEL
I’m sure He does.
I’m sure He does.
DEAN
That’s it? I’ve been trying to get
your attention for months. And I
mean months! And this is what it
takes to get you to answer?
That’s it? I’ve been trying to get
your attention for months. And I
mean months! And this is what it
takes to get you to answer?
CASTIEL
Is this your idea of a prayer,
Dean?
Is this your idea of a prayer,
Dean?
Dean sighs. Pent up frustration clear on his face.
DEAN
Okay. Fine. We can pull him out of
this--
Okay. Fine. We can pull him out of
this--
CASTIEL
--How?
--How?
DEAN
What do you mean, how? You work a
miracle and it’s done.
What do you mean, how? You work a
miracle and it’s done.
Castiel stares him down. No move to take care of it.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Cass? What are you waiting for?
Cass? What are you waiting for?
Castiel takes in the surroundings.
CASTIEL
This is where he is. The place of
his dream. Do you know it?
This is where he is. The place of
his dream. Do you know it?
DEAN
I don’t... Cass?
I don’t... Cass?
Castiel keeps taking in the surroundings. Then,
CASTIEL
I’m done here.
I’m done here.
He takes a step to leave before Dean rushes him.
DEAN
What do you mean you’re done?
You’re not done! Cass, there is no
antidote. The last time we used
one, it didn’t work. Djinn poison
is literally boiling through Sam’s
veins, and you’re more concerned
with our location? I need you to
focus!
What do you mean you’re done?
You’re not done! Cass, there is no
antidote. The last time we used
one, it didn’t work. Djinn poison
is literally boiling through Sam’s
veins, and you’re more concerned
with our location? I need you to
focus!
CASTIEL
I’m still not hearing this as a
prayer--
I’m still not hearing this as a
prayer--
DEAN
--I don’t have time for some pissy
grudge! Sam is on lock down in a
dream that could be his worst
nightmare and--
--I don’t have time for some pissy
grudge! Sam is on lock down in a
dream that could be his worst
nightmare and--
CASTIEL
--There are worse fates than dying
in a coma--
--There are worse fates than dying
in a coma--
DEAN
--I swear, Crowley has more to
offer than you.
--I swear, Crowley has more to
offer than you.
Castiel stares Dean down again. Dean doesn’t falter.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Fix this!
Fix this!
A disturbance in the air. Castiel is gone.
Dean kicks over a chair. He paces, thinks out loud.
DEAN (CONT'D)
The middle of nowhere... access to
nothing...
The middle of nowhere... access to
nothing...
He pulls the flask filled with blood back out of his pocket, considers its value. Again, he pulls open Sam’s mouth, gently pours in the blood.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Come on, Sam, just swallow. It’s
all I’ve got, so let’s just...
pray.
Come on, Sam, just swallow. It’s
all I’ve got, so let’s just...
pray.
EXT. MOUNTAINSIDE - PEAK - DREAM WORLD - DAY
Dean still pinning Sam down. He lets go, offers a hand to help Sam up.
Once Sam is on his feet.
DEAN
Feeling better?
Feeling better?
Sam spits blood. He hauls back and punches Dean in the face.
Dean reels back, cups a bloody nose before he recovers. He starts to laugh.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Whoa! Okay. I guess I deserved that
a little... A perfect world, right?
Whoa! Okay. I guess I deserved that
a little... A perfect world, right?
More doubt on Sam’s face. Maybe this is real. He watches Dean blot his nose before he packs up, starts heading back down off the peak.
INT. CABIN - DREAM WORLD - DUSK
The four of them, Dean and Lisa, Sam and Jess, enjoy dinner. The conversation a little more relaxed, a little more animated compared to breakfast.
Sam remains quieter, more reserved than the rest. He takes it all in, allows Jess to coax an occasional smile from him.
LATER
A board game in the living room. Cheese and crackers, wine and beer. Sam partakes in bottled water as Dean rolls the dice.
DEAN
Yahtzee!
The game they’re playing is anything but.
SAM
Dude, Yahtzee? Really?
Dude, Yahtzee? Really?
DEAN
If it’s a win, it’s a Yahtzee.
Don’t mess with my mojo.
If it’s a win, it’s a Yahtzee.
Don’t mess with my mojo.
Dean takes his advantage.
Jess leans into Sam. A tender moment. Sam welcomes it. A brief caress down an arm. She leans toward his ear.
JESS
Getting tired?
Getting tired?
Their hands meet in a gentle squeeze.
INT. CABIN - BEDROOM - DREAM WORLD - MORNING
Sam wakes, finds himself spooned into Jess. He admires as she sleeps, pulls himself to the edge of the bed.
The pill bottle stands sentry on the night stand.
Sam takes hold of it. A long moment before he pops the top, pops a pill into his mouth. A longer moment to actually swallow it.
Jess, now awake, reaches for him.
JESS
Hey. You want this, right?
Hey. You want this, right?
SAM
I want this.
I want this.
CUT TO:
EXT. ON THE LAKE - DAY
Wakeboarding. Dean at the controls of the motorboat, bottle of beer snug in one hand.
Sam on the board. He rides the wake with a huge grin until he topples, goes under.
Sam on the board. He rides the wake with a huge grin until he topples, goes under.
He bobs back up, grin still plastered there as Dean maneuvers the boat back toward him.
Jess leans over the side with a hand to help Sam back in.
Jess leans over the side with a hand to help Sam back in.
SAM
Your turn.
Your turn.
JESS
You’re not getting me on that
thing.
You’re not getting me on that
thing.
LATER
Jess is on that thing. She squeals as the boat gains some speed.
LISA
Come on, Jess! Show these guys what we’re made of!
Come on, Jess! Show these guys what we’re made of!
Jess lets go. She sinks, then bobs just like Sam did.
Dean slows, arcs the boat back around.
DEAN
She beat your time, Sammy.
She beat your time, Sammy.
Sam grins.
SAM
Beginner’s luck.
Beginner’s luck.
DEAN
Is that a smile I see on your face?
This is nice, right?
Is that a smile I see on your face?
This is nice, right?
Dean starts to close in when the motor stalls. The boat dead in the water.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Crap.
Crap.
He fiddles with the ignition. Can’t get it started.
SAM
What happened?
What happened?
DEAN
I don’t know! This is still new to
me--
LISA
All these years fixing cars, and
you don’t know how to start a boat?
It’s all in the throttle.
I don’t know! This is still new to
me--
LISA
All these years fixing cars, and
you don’t know how to start a boat?
It’s all in the throttle.
Dean smiles.
DEAN
I think I just had an inappropriate
thought. Would you like to show me
how it’s done, Mrs. Winchester?
I think I just had an inappropriate
thought. Would you like to show me
how it’s done, Mrs. Winchester?
Sam waves, shouts out to Jess.
SAM
It’s alright! We’ll be there in a
minute!
It’s alright! We’ll be there in a
minute!
Lisa steps in to show Dean how it’s done, but there’s more flirtation involved than actual teaching.
Sam clears his throat, waves to Jess again.
Sam clears his throat, waves to Jess again.
SAM (CONT'D)
Just... one more minute...
Just... one more minute...
ON JESS
Patiently waiting in the water. Something yanks her under - straight out of JAWS. She comes back up. Terror.
From the boat, Sam sees her surface, then get yanked under again.
SAM (CONT'D)
Jess?
Jess?
The life vest and wake board pop to the surface. No Jess.
SAM (CONT'D)
Jess!
Jess!
Sam dives in. No hesitation. Dean and Lisa turn from the commotion.
DEAN
Sam! Wait--
Sam! Wait--
UNDER WATER
Sam swims deep, reaches out for Jess who gets pulled deeper into darkness. Sam loses sight of her.
Sam resurfaces in a panic. He turns toward the boat. Dean and Lisa not on it. Instead, Castiel. Sam’s eyes dart around for signs of anyone else before Castiel calls out.
Sam resurfaces in a panic. He turns toward the boat. Dean and Lisa not on it. Instead, Castiel. Sam’s eyes dart around for signs of anyone else before Castiel calls out.
CASTIEL
It’s only me, Sam.
It’s only me, Sam.
Sam shakes his head, confused, scared.
CASTIEL (CONT'D)
I had to get you alone--
I had to get you alone--
SAM
--You’re not doing this!
--You’re not doing this!
CASTIEL
Technically, you’re right. This
place all comes from you, and maybe
I don’t belong in it. It’s
complicated... But you did pray for
me to help you through this
nightmare, and I’m here to try--
Technically, you’re right. This
place all comes from you, and maybe
I don’t belong in it. It’s
complicated... But you did pray for
me to help you through this
nightmare, and I’m here to try--
SAM
--Try?! By taking her away from me?
By leaving me alone out here?!
--Try?! By taking her away from me?
By leaving me alone out here?!
CASTIEL
She was never here, Sam. You are
alone--
She was never here, Sam. You are
alone--
SAM
--Bring her back!
--Bring her back!
CASTIEL
She doesn’t exist. Not in a
corporeal sense... You’ve been
poisoned to believe a lie--
She doesn’t exist. Not in a
corporeal sense... You’ve been
poisoned to believe a lie--
SAM
--This moment is a lie! YOU are the
lie!
--This moment is a lie! YOU are the
lie!
Castiel sighs with a thoughtful nod.
CASTIEL
I understand. I wish I could help
more, but I’ve been... busy... Just
know that you are not the problem.
Dean is. He needs to learn how to
pray... To think that over all this
time, I’ve been betting on the
wrong horse--
SAM
--Bring Jess back!
I understand. I wish I could help
more, but I’ve been... busy... Just
know that you are not the problem.
Dean is. He needs to learn how to
pray... To think that over all this
time, I’ve been betting on the
wrong horse--
SAM
--Bring Jess back!
CASTIEL
Is this what you want?
Is this what you want?
Sam glares. A disturbance in the air, and Castiel is gone. The boat, unmanned.
Sam looks around. He dives under again, comes up without Jess. What’s worse is that the boat is gone. He’s in the middle of the lake and completely alone.
He snaps his eyes shut and screams in frustration.
DEAN (O.S.)
Damn it, Sam! Just give me your
hand!
Damn it, Sam! Just give me your
hand!
Sam opens his eyes, the boat right behind him. Dean, Lisa and Jess lean over the edge coaxing Sam to take the outstretched hand.
ON THE BOAT
Sam sinks to the floor after he’s pulled on board. Lisa drapes a towel around him. He pulls Jess close.
SAM
Don’t leave me.
Don’t leave me.
JESS
I’m right here.
I’m right here.
DEAN
What happened?
What happened?
All eyes scrutinize.
SAM
I don’t know--
I don’t know--
DEAN
--What do you mean ‘you don’t
know?’ Like you zoned out and fell
in? Or was it something else?
--What do you mean ‘you don’t
know?’ Like you zoned out and fell
in? Or was it something else?
LISA
Dean, you need to give him some
space.
Dean, you need to give him some
space.
DEAN
No, Lisa. That’s all we give him is
space. And what does he do?
Takes a nose dive for no apparent
reason and doesn’t surface for God
knows how long? You were zoned out,
Sam. Where did you think you were?
No, Lisa. That’s all we give him is
space. And what does he do?
Takes a nose dive for no apparent
reason and doesn’t surface for God
knows how long? You were zoned out,
Sam. Where did you think you were?
Sam rubs his eyes, notes the wedding band on his finger.
SAM
I thought I lost my ring. I jumped
in to get it.
I thought I lost my ring. I jumped
in to get it.
Dean grabs Sam’s hand.
DEAN
Your wedding ring. This one right
here. You ‘thought’ you lost it.
Tell me, did you take your meds
this morning?
Your wedding ring. This one right
here. You ‘thought’ you lost it.
Tell me, did you take your meds
this morning?
Sam yanks his hand free.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Well?
Well?
SAM
Yes!
Yes!
JESS
He did. I was with him.
He did. I was with him.
Dean nods.
DEAN
Did you tuck it back in your cheek?
Wait for Jess to leave before you
pitched it down the can?
Did you tuck it back in your cheek?
Wait for Jess to leave before you
pitched it down the can?
JESS
Dean!
Dean!
DEAN
That’s what he does!
That’s what he does!
SAM
I didn’t!
I didn’t!
DEAN
You’re only lying to yourself--
You’re only lying to yourself--
SAM
--I'm not lying to anyone!
--I'm not lying to anyone!
Lisa pulls Dean aside, back to the boat’s wheel. She gives Dean a silent plead to relax.
LISA
Don't do this. Not here, not now.
Don't do this. Not here, not now.
Dean grabs his beer, takes a hurried gulp before he turns back to Sam with a pointed finger.
DEAN
You know what? Lisa’s right. We’re
taking you home. Back to your
reality. The padded room where you
can’t hurt yourself--
You know what? Lisa’s right. We’re
taking you home. Back to your
reality. The padded room where you
can’t hurt yourself--
LISA
--Dean! Back off!
--Dean! Back off!
Her glare makes him back down for real this time. Another swig of beer. He turns his own glare toward the horizon.
DEAN
I’m sorry.
I’m sorry.
SAM
I’m not going back.
I’m not going back.
Dean registers the determination in Sam’s gaze. He turns to the wheel, figures out how to restart the engine and turns the boat back toward the dock.
EXT. CROWLEY’S MANSION - REALITY - DAY
The mansion’s exterior marred by Enochian graffiti from roof line to foundation. The symbols, designed to keep the heavenly out.
Castiel steps up to the front door and knocks.
CROWLEY, current overseer of Hell, greets him with mock surprise.
CROWLEY
Castiel, as I live and breathe!
Come inside. Join me over a scotch.
Castiel, as I live and breathe!
Come inside. Join me over a scotch.
CASTIEL
You know I can’t do that.
You know I can’t do that.
Crowley casts a favorable eye at the exterior of the house.
CROWLEY
It’s the angel proofing, isn’t it.
If I had known you were dropping
by, I would have tidied up--
CASTIEL
--What are you doing to Sam?
It’s the angel proofing, isn’t it.
If I had known you were dropping
by, I would have tidied up--
CASTIEL
--What are you doing to Sam?
CROWLEY
Sam’s not here. I’m not doing
anything--
Sam’s not here. I’m not doing
anything--
CASTIEL
--I spoke with Dean.
--I spoke with Dean.
Crowley shrugs.
CASTIEL (CONT'D)
Your name came up.
Your name came up.
CROWLEY
Ah, that. Sam went missing. No one
knew where. No one knew why. Dean
apparently couldn’t get in touch
with you, but I was fortunate
enough to cross Sam’s path. He was
in trouble. I gave Dean a lead on
his whereabouts. I guess that makes
me a good samaritan of sorts.
Ah, that. Sam went missing. No one
knew where. No one knew why. Dean
apparently couldn’t get in touch
with you, but I was fortunate
enough to cross Sam’s path. He was
in trouble. I gave Dean a lead on
his whereabouts. I guess that makes
me a good samaritan of sorts.
Crowley, about to close the door on Castiel until Cas persists.
CASTIEL
You don’t help the Winchesters
unless there’s something in it for
you.
You don’t help the Winchesters
unless there’s something in it for
you.
CROWLEY
You would think Dean would know
that by now. But I guess he was
desperate. What’s the matter, Cass?
Feeling a bit guilty over
neglecting your little pets?
You would think Dean would know
that by now. But I guess he was
desperate. What’s the matter, Cass?
Feeling a bit guilty over
neglecting your little pets?
CASTIEL
Sam is in a coma.
Sam is in a coma.
CROWLEY
A Djinn induced one. What a shame.
To be honest, I don’t think he knew
it when it hit him.
A Djinn induced one. What a shame.
To be honest, I don’t think he knew
it when it hit him.
CASTIEL
And how would you know that?
And how would you know that?
Crowley smirks. He shrugs again.
CASTIEL (CONT'D)
I can’t help Sam because Dean
doesn’t know how to pray.
I can’t help Sam because Dean
doesn’t know how to pray.
CROWLEY
Interesting... Can’t, or won’t?
Interesting... Can’t, or won’t?
CASTIEL
It’s complicated.
It’s complicated.
CROWLEY
So I take it that you bought a new
dress, and Dean said you looked fat
in it?
So I take it that you bought a new
dress, and Dean said you looked fat
in it?
CASTIEL
I don’t own a dress.
I don’t own a dress.
CROWLEY
You’re pissed at him. It’s a visual
comparison- Never mind. So I take
it you know where they’re hiding?
You’re pissed at him. It’s a visual
comparison- Never mind. So I take
it you know where they’re hiding?
CASTIEL
Why do you want to know?
Why do you want to know?
CROWLEY
I don’t... But if Dean was smart
enough to find me, I just might
have a little something to keep Sam
from... you know.
I don’t... But if Dean was smart
enough to find me, I just might
have a little something to keep Sam
from... you know.
Crowley mimes a sudden death.
Castiel lurches forward. Crowley waves a finger at him.
CROWLEY (CONT'D)
Ah- ah- ah! Angel proofing.
Ah- ah- ah! Angel proofing.
He shuts the door in Castiel’s face.
Castiel paces. An idea strikes him, and he disappears.
FADE OUT:
ACT THREE
INT. CABIN - BEDROOM - REALITY - DAY
Sam lies peacefully in his coma.
Dean breaks the tranquility by ransacking a closet. Then drawers. Her pulls open the drawer to the night stand, finds a prescription bottle inside.
Dean checks out the label, considers pocketing it before he thinks better of it and sets it aside.
CABIN - CONTINUOUS
Dean continues his search. He finds a bowl, candles, even condiments from various drawers and cabinets.
He finds a stash of board games including the one played in Sam’s dream world. He tosses it aside in search of something useful.
On a shelf, a scrapbook catches his eye. On the cover, a memorial picture of Jess.
DEAN
Oh no...
Oh no...
He takes it down, leafs through photos, newspaper clippings, eventually a few pictures of a happy young couple at the lake - Sam and Jess.
Dean slams the scrapbook shut. The expression on his face clear. He’s screwed. He catches sight of something through a nearby window - the Impala parked outside.
DEAN (CONT'D)
My baby!
My baby!
EXT. CABIN
Dean finds the things he needs inside the trunk of his car.
DEAN
Cass, I owe you an apology.
Cass, I owe you an apology.
He slams the trunk shut.
INT. CABIN
INT. CABIN
A makeshift altar from the collection of things found in the house and the car. Dean sets the contents of the bowl on fire.
A moment, and Crowley appears. He’s all smiles.
CROWLEY
Dean! I’ve been waiting for your
Dean! I’ve been waiting for your
call.
DEAN
It’s a little difficult when you’re
in the middle of nowhere with no
service--
It’s a little difficult when you’re
in the middle of nowhere with no
service--
CROWLEY
--Did you find him?
--Did you find him?
Crowley glances about in hopes of getting a glimpse of Sam until Dean takes a menacing step forward. Crowley doesn’t even flinch.
DEAN
This is what I don’t get. Sam goes
This is what I don’t get. Sam goes
missing, and you come to me knowing
exactly where he is.
exactly where he is.
CROWLEY
Sounds to me like you ‘get’ more
than you let on. Is he here--
Sounds to me like you ‘get’ more
than you let on. Is he here--
DEAN
--You set us up.
--You set us up.
Crowley shrugs.
CROWLEY
And?
And?
DEAN
And?! Crowley, he’s so deep in
dream land that I can’t pull him
out! And this?
And?! Crowley, he’s so deep in
dream land that I can’t pull him
out! And this?
Dean pulls out the flask that once held blood.
DEAN (CONT'D)
This didn’t do anything! It’s not a
cure--
CROWLEY
Don’t sell my blood short. It’s the
only thing prolonging Sam’s life.
Demon blood strengthens the vessel,
and all? It’s a good thing Moose
has that little flaw too. If it had
been you in his place you’d
probably be dead--
This didn’t do anything! It’s not a
cure--
CROWLEY
Don’t sell my blood short. It’s the
only thing prolonging Sam’s life.
Demon blood strengthens the vessel,
and all? It’s a good thing Moose
has that little flaw too. If it had
been you in his place you’d
probably be dead--
Dean pulls out a blade, a special one for killing demons. One step forward before Crowley throws him aside with the flick of his hand. Crowley keeps Dean firmly pinned to the wall with his Jedi-like power.
CROWLEY (CONT'D)
Drop the knife. Drop it.
Drop the knife. Drop it.
Dean lets it clatter to the floor.
CROWLEY (CONT'D)
Not very smart, if your goal is to
prolong the inevitable.
Not very smart, if your goal is to
prolong the inevitable.
DEAN
Why do this?
Why do this?
Crowley confiscates the knife, frees Dean from the psychic hold.
CROWLEY
I got a visit from Cass. He says hi--
I got a visit from Cass. He says hi--
DEAN
--You owe me an explanation!
--You owe me an explanation!
CROWLEY
I don’t owe you anything. But,
okay. I’m in a chatty mood. Let’s
start with the Djinn. They don’t
really like you with your track
record of killing them off, so it
was easy to get them on board--
I don’t owe you anything. But,
okay. I’m in a chatty mood. Let’s
start with the Djinn. They don’t
really like you with your track
record of killing them off, so it
was easy to get them on board--
DEAN
--Sam knows how to take out a
Djinn.
--Sam knows how to take out a
Djinn.
CROWLEY
He wasn’t looking for one. He was
looking for me. The Djinn took him
out before he knew what hit him...
He probably still doesn’t.
DEAN
Why, Crowley?
He wasn’t looking for one. He was
looking for me. The Djinn took him
out before he knew what hit him...
He probably still doesn’t.
DEAN
Why, Crowley?
CROWLEY
Because Lucifer is a problem child.
He’s hold up in a cage, bored out
of his mind making a bloody racket
24/7! Even I need a bit of shut eye
once in a while. So, I get this
idea. Lucifer has this bit of wifi
going between him and Sam’s head.
Because Lucifer is a problem child.
He’s hold up in a cage, bored out
of his mind making a bloody racket
24/7! Even I need a bit of shut eye
once in a while. So, I get this
idea. Lucifer has this bit of wifi
going between him and Sam’s head.
DEAN
So... the Djinn put Sam in a coma,
mess with his reality so that
Lucifer can watch?
So... the Djinn put Sam in a coma,
mess with his reality so that
Lucifer can watch?
CROWLEY
TV makes the best babysitter. And
tormenting Sam? Call it a perk. Of
course, if the Djinn had their way,
they’d drain Sam to his death. And
that wouldn’t do anyone any good.
TV makes the best babysitter. And
tormenting Sam? Call it a perk. Of
course, if the Djinn had their way,
they’d drain Sam to his death. And
that wouldn’t do anyone any good.
DEAN
Well, that’s just great. Except for
one problem. Sam is in too deep. He
is here, in this place, with Jess!
Well, that’s just great. Except for
one problem. Sam is in too deep. He
is here, in this place, with Jess!
Crowley takes a curious gander at the surroundings.
CROWLEY
And how would you know that?
And how would you know that?
Dean hedges.
DEAN
Lucky guess.
Lucky guess.
Crowley looks around. Spots the memorial scrapbook with Jess’ name on it. He leafs through pages, finds the pics of Sam and Jess together.
CROWLEY
They really were a cute couple. So,
how did you end up here?
They really were a cute couple. So,
how did you end up here?
Dean doesn’t answer.
CROWLEY (CONT'D)
Let me guess. Cass... Do you think
Sam’s little nightmare might
involve watching Jess just burn to
a crisp over and over and--
DEAN
--You really are a sick bastard.
Let me guess. Cass... Do you think
Sam’s little nightmare might
involve watching Jess just burn to
a crisp over and over and--
DEAN
--You really are a sick bastard.
CROWLEY
Duly noted. So is Sam here?
Duly noted. So is Sam here?
Crowley heads to search the rest of the cabin, Dean on his heels. They reach the bedroom where Sam rests.
A line of salt at the entrance prevents Crowley from passing through. He peeks in on Sam with a grin.
CROWLEY (CONT'D)
Sleeping Beauty needs a shave.
Sleeping Beauty needs a shave.
DEAN
Either you fix this, or God help me
I will--
Either you fix this, or God help me
I will--
CROWLEY
--Do what? And with God’s help?
--Do what? And with God’s help?
Crowley smirks at Dean’s threatening glare.
CROWLEY (CONT'D)
Of course, if you don’t want Sam to
die living out his worst
nightmare... or, I don’t know.
Maybe it’s his dream come true
since the Djinn can spin it either
way, then you might want to let me
pass...
Of course, if you don’t want Sam to
die living out his worst
nightmare... or, I don’t know.
Maybe it’s his dream come true
since the Djinn can spin it either
way, then you might want to let me
pass...
He nods toward the salt barrier.
CROWLEY (CONT'D)
...so that I can help keep him
strong with the blood of kings.
...so that I can help keep him
strong with the blood of kings.
He pats his own wrist, tweaks his brow up suggestively.
Dean considers Sam. He breaks the line of salt with the toe of his boot.
INT. CABIN - BEDROOM - REALITY - LATER
Crowley finishes letting blood drip from the open wound in his wrist into Sam’s mouth. He staves the bleeding, regards Dean leaning as if in prayer against the edge of the bed.
CROWLEY
Now you just look desperate.
Now you just look desperate.
Again with the threatening glare from Dean. This time Crowley considers the danger.
CROWLEY (CONT'D)
Give me a ring in a couple of days
when he needs a refill.
Give me a ring in a couple of days
when he needs a refill.
DEAN
Get out.
Get out.
CROWLEY
Oh, and don’t bother trying to find
your way to the nearest town for
‘special supplies.’ It’s not that
close. And your fuel line sprung a
leak. I checked.
Oh, and don’t bother trying to find
your way to the nearest town for
‘special supplies.’ It’s not that
close. And your fuel line sprung a
leak. I checked.
Crowley grins, leaves. Dean closes the door behind him, fixes the salt back to an unbroken line.
Back to Sam’s bedside, back to his head hung low.
Back to Sam’s bedside, back to his head hung low.
DEAN
Sam, I pray you can hear me...
Please. What you’re living isn’t
real. It’s not... I don’t know
what’s playing inside your head,
but I know it’s a game. And the
only way to break free and come
back to the real world is to kill
yourself.
Sam, I pray you can hear me...
Please. What you’re living isn’t
real. It’s not... I don’t know
what’s playing inside your head,
but I know it’s a game. And the
only way to break free and come
back to the real world is to kill
yourself.
Dean falters, composes himself before he can tear up.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Find a gun, a knife, whatever you
have at your fingertips. And you
kill yourself... If you kill
yourself in a dream, you wake up.
That’s how I did it. Wake up and
come back to me. Back home.
Find a gun, a knife, whatever you
have at your fingertips. And you
kill yourself... If you kill
yourself in a dream, you wake up.
That’s how I did it. Wake up and
come back to me. Back home.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. CABIN - BEDROOM - DREAM WORLD
Sam toys with his vial of pills. He pops the cap, downs two dry. Jess catches him, pulls the bottle from his grip.
JESS
Just one.
SAM
Does it matter?
Just one.
SAM
Does it matter?
JESS
This isn’t a game! They only keep
you on track when you take them
right--
This isn’t a game! They only keep
you on track when you take them
right--
SAM
--which doesn’t matter because I’m
‘lying.’ Maybe I should just take
them all and be done with it.
--which doesn’t matter because I’m
‘lying.’ Maybe I should just take
them all and be done with it.
He reaches for the bottle. Jess pulls it back.
JESS
I’m giving them to Dean. Lisa and I
are going home. And Dean will take
care of it.
I’m giving them to Dean. Lisa and I
are going home. And Dean will take
care of it.
SAM
You’re leaving me? Again?
You’re leaving me? Again?
JESS
Sam, I never left you. You left me.
Sam, I never left you. You left me.
She backs off the bed, tears in her eyes.
Sam watches her go, spots Dean in the hall just outside the door. Jess gives him the pills and leaves him to stare his brother down.
EXT. CABIN - PORCH - LATER
Lisa and Jess pack a few last things into a car and go. Sam on the porch, sees Jess take one last look back before the car is gone.
Dean steps out behind Sam.
DEAN
You wanted to stay--
You wanted to stay--
SAM
--I didn’t want you to stay.
--I didn’t want you to stay.
DEAN
Well, you’re stuck with me. To the
bitter end.
Well, you’re stuck with me. To the
bitter end.
Dean retreats back inside.
From the edge of the woods, Sam spots someone watching him.
From the edge of the woods, Sam spots someone watching him.
It’s Lucifer again. He leans casually against a tree. Same smirk.
Sam quickly retreats into the house too.
FADE OUT:
ACT FOUR
INT. CABIN - BEDROOM - DREAM WORLD - NIGHT
Sam lies in bed, fully awake.
Dean in the hallway, clearly troubled, clearly keeps an eye on his brother.
SAM
I know you’re there.
I know you’re there.
DEAN
Can’t sleep? Maybe we should take a
stroll then. Or a moonlight ride on
the boat.
Can’t sleep? Maybe we should take a
stroll then. Or a moonlight ride on
the boat.
It isn’t a suggestion. Sam sighs. He climbs out of bed, follows Dean out of the room.
EXT. ON THE LAKE - NIGHT
A good distance from the dock before Dean cuts the motor. Lets the boat drift. He cracks open a couple of beers, offers one to Sam.
Sam declines.
DEAN
Every time I try to reach out, you
shut me down.
Every time I try to reach out, you
shut me down.
SAM
I never know if you’re reaching out
or getting ready to punch me.
I never know if you’re reaching out
or getting ready to punch me.
Dean laughs.
DEAN
Yeah, well... Guilty.
Yeah, well... Guilty.
He takes a swig, studies the stars.
DEAN (CONT'D)
I’ve tried. I really have. For ten
years. And I’m tired. I don’t think
I can do this anymore.
I’ve tried. I really have. For ten
years. And I’m tired. I don’t think
I can do this anymore.
SAM
Then don’t.
DEAN
You’re giving me permission to give
up on you?
Then don’t.
DEAN
You’re giving me permission to give
up on you?
SAM
I never asked for your help.
I never asked for your help.
DEAN
No... You never do. So, it’s like
this.
No... You never do. So, it’s like
this.
He stares Sam down.
DEAN (CONT'D)
I’ve made a decision. To end this.
I’ve made a decision. To end this.
SAM
What does that mean?
What does that mean?
DEAN
If you can’t find comfort in this
world, fine. I can’t change your
mind. I can’t make you happy. So
stay here. Wallow in it. But the
rest of us want to move on. And we
can’t do it with an anchor.
If you can’t find comfort in this
world, fine. I can’t change your
mind. I can’t make you happy. So
stay here. Wallow in it. But the
rest of us want to move on. And we
can’t do it with an anchor.
SAM
Is that what I am? An anchor?
Is that what I am? An anchor?
Dean says nothing. Sam leans back in disappointment. Then Dean launches forward, swings a wrench, knocks Sam across the temple.
Sam falls back, struggles as Dean grabs his shirt and pulls him over the side. Dean dunks Sam’s head under water, forces him to stay there.
DEAN
Come on! Just breathe it in. It’s
what you want! It’ll be done!
Come on! Just breathe it in. It’s
what you want! It’ll be done!
Sam comes up. Dean forces his head back in. This isn’t a lesson in tough love.
Survival mode kicks in. Sam breaks free. A struggle for control as both men swing and grapple.
Survival mode kicks in. Sam breaks free. A struggle for control as both men swing and grapple.
Dean gets a couple more hits in with the wrench, leaves Sam dazed against seat cushions. He raises the wrench for a crushing blow, but Sam catches him off balance.
The wrench flies out of Dean’s hand, into the water.
Sam claws his way to the far end of the boat. Dean snags Sam’s leg as Sam grabs hold of the wake board.
Sam frees his leg, gets to his feet, smashes the board across Dean’s face before he can get the same ground.
Dean drops, dazed. He recovers quickly enough to charge with a scream.
Sam swings the board again. A solid hit. Dean goes down. Sam rages, brings the edge of the board down on Dean’s throat.
Blood splatter. Dean’s head severed.
Sam raises the board up over his head, ready for another blow. He stares down at what he’s done. A long time to react. He drops the board, looks to the shore. Lost. Alone.
Dread sets in. Panic. Shock. He sinks to the floor, hugs himself and stares at the damage.
The soft lap of water against the boat, then CLAPPING. Lucifer appears to give Sam a nice, slow applause.
LUCIFER
Bravo, Sam. Way to commit. Be
honest. It felt good, didn’t it.
Bravo, Sam. Way to commit. Be
honest. It felt good, didn’t it.
Sam remains catatonic. Lucifer studies with amusement. He shrugs.
LUCIFER (CONT'D)
Well, it was fun while it lasted.
There’s only one thing left to do--
Well, it was fun while it lasted.
There’s only one thing left to do--
SAM
--Is this real?
--Is this real?
Lucifer leans close.
LUCIFER
Everything you feel is real. So,
how does this make you feel?
Everything you feel is real. So,
how does this make you feel?
Sam swallows. A terrified nod. But Lucifer is gone. Sam, left to clean up the mess.
He gets to his feet, gathers Dean’s body and his head, dumps them over board.
INT. CABIN - SHOWER
Sam lets the water soak him forever.
BEDROOM
BEDROOM
Scrubbed clean, Sam sits on the edge of the bed, pill bottle in hand. He pops the top, downs half the contents dry. A moment to clear his throat before he downs the rest.
Sam gets comfortable on the bed, flat on his back. Eyes to the ceiling. He waits to zone out.
SAM’S POV
Slowly losing focus. Castiel steps in. Watches over Sam with a smile.
Sam returns the favor.
SAM
Cass.
Cass.
Sam’s hand floats up to touch Cass, but it never reaches him. The hand drops. Sam blacks out.
INT. CABIN - BEDROOM - REALITY - NIGHT
Dean wakes at Sam’s bedside. Sam still comatose. No hope in Dean’s gaze.
EXT. CABIN - REALITY - NIGHT
Dean checks the Impala with a flashlight. Finds the fuel line cut. He grabs a bottle of liquor nearby, heads for the dock.
He settles at the end of it and judges the stars. He calls out.
DEAN
I can't go through this, Cass! Not
again. Not like this. I can't.
I can't go through this, Cass! Not
again. Not like this. I can't.
He waits. Oblivious to Castiel's presence in the shadows near the shore.
DEAN (CONT'D)
What do you want me to say? That
I'm sorry because I take you for
granted? That I take Sam for
granted? Well, I don't... You're
busy, I get that. But I need you to
help me, and I don't know what you
want me to say.
What do you want me to say? That
I'm sorry because I take you for
granted? That I take Sam for
granted? Well, I don't... You're
busy, I get that. But I need you to
help me, and I don't know what you
want me to say.
He waits, then turns as if feeling Castiel's presence. His gaze lands in the direction where Cass previously stood, but now Cass is gone.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. CABIN - REALITY - DAWN
Dean still at the end of the dock, passed out, the bottle
empty.
empty.
INT. CABIN - BEDROOM - REALITY
Sam’s eyes roll open. He blinks, takes in his surroundings, the room, a prescription on the night stand. He looks sick.
INT. BATHROOM
He dry heaves over the toilet, as if trying to get rid of those pills. A look at his reflection finds him pale, emaciated.
EXT. CABIN
The sun a little brighter. Dean stirs from his stupor. Nurses a hangover pang. He pulls himself up, overbalances. He falls into the lake.
He comes up out of cold water, waist deep. He’s more pissed at himself than anything else.
INT. CABIN
Sam makes his way through the living room, glimpses of familiar things - the board game, the furniture.
He reaches the kitchen, pulls open the fridge. It’s oddly empty. Just a bottle or two of water and an open carton of milk.
Sam grabs it, downs the milk straight from the carton. It’s bad. Really bad. Sam spits it back up into the sink.
The faucet spits water from lack of use. Sam ignore it, more concerned with washing the bad taste out of his mouth. Then he sees it through the window. Dean pulls himself out of the lake, head and all.
Sam backs away from the window.
Sam backs away from the window.
LATER
Dean steps through the door. He’s struck by a fire poker tothe temple. Dean goes down.
DEAN
Sam?!
Sam?!
Dean on his hands and knees. Sam rams the poker through a hand. Into the floor. He kicks Dean in the gut, yanks the poker free, hits him again.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Sam! This is real! I’m real!
Sam! This is real! I’m real!
Dean struggles, but Sam stays relentless. Dean has no chance. Sam pins him down, the tip of the poker at Dean’s throat.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Sam, it’s me! I’m your brother--
Sam, it’s me! I’m your brother--
SAM
I know an angel. Named Castiel. He
told me that you were my problem--
I know an angel. Named Castiel. He
told me that you were my problem--
DEAN
--C-Cass? Cass! Cass, help me-- HELP
ME!
--C-Cass? Cass! Cass, help me-- HELP
ME!
Sam, about to plunge the poker deep when he’s thrown back, pinned against a bookcase by an unseen force.
Castiel stands between them. He waits for Dean to catch his breath.
CASTIEL
That wasn’t so hard, was it?
That wasn’t so hard, was it?
DEAN
Screw you.
Screw you.
Dean rolls over, groans from his wounds.
Castiel turns to Sam, takes the poker out of his grip. He frees Sam from the psychic hold.
Sam looks on confused. His eyes fall on the scrapbook memorializing Jess.
CASTIEL
I’m sorry, Sam.
I’m sorry, Sam.
INT. CABIN - REALITY - LATER
The scrap book gone, Sam gone.
Dean winces as Castiel administers first aid to the hole in his hand.
DEAN
You’re not going to work your
little magic fingers and just heal
it? Or are you still on strike--
You’re not going to work your
little magic fingers and just heal
it? Or are you still on strike--
CASTIEL
--Some prayers are best left
unanswered.
--Some prayers are best left
unanswered.
DEAN
Yeah, thanks for that.
Yeah, thanks for that.
CASTIEL
Painful lessons make your kind
stronger. Or they break you.
Painful lessons make your kind
stronger. Or they break you.
DEAN
And where’s the benefit in that?
Tell me.
And where’s the benefit in that?
Tell me.
CASTIEL
An opportunity to learn another
lesson.
An opportunity to learn another
lesson.
DEAN
So all this was some test? To see
if I still had any faith in you? Or
God? Is that the ‘lesson’ I was
supposed to learn?
So all this was some test? To see
if I still had any faith in you? Or
God? Is that the ‘lesson’ I was
supposed to learn?
CASTIEL
You chose Crowley to handle this--
You chose Crowley to handle this--
DEAN
--because you weren't there.
--because you weren't there.
Castiel squints at him. No retort.
DEAN (CONT'D)
And Sam? What about him?
And Sam? What about him?
Castiel squints toward the door.
CASTIEL
I wasn't the one testing either of
you.
I wasn't the one testing either of
you.
Castiel heads for the door.
EXT. CABIN - PORCH
Sam hugs the scrapbook, lost in the past. Castiel settles in beside him.
SAM
I have nothing, Cass. Nothing here.
Nothing in some made up reality in
my head. Nothing.
I have nothing, Cass. Nothing here.
Nothing in some made up reality in
my head. Nothing.
CASTIEL
You have Dean.
You have Dean.
Sam laughs.
SAM
Dean... Right. I’ve got... that.
Every other connection to something
meaningful to me? Just severed.
Dean... Right. I’ve got... that.
Every other connection to something
meaningful to me? Just severed.
Castiel takes the scrapbook, turns to a page full of photos of him and Jess at this very lake. He lets Sam take them in.
Sam smiles at a memory.
SAM (CONT'D)
I almost proposed here.
I almost proposed here.
CASTIEL
And what stopped you?
And what stopped you?
Sam shrugs.
SAM
Nerves. We were still at Stanford.
I thought I had time. I think her
parents knew what I was planning,
but...
Nerves. We were still at Stanford.
I thought I had time. I think her
parents knew what I was planning,
but...
CASTIEL
But?
But?
SAM
I backed out. I think they were
relieved.
I backed out. I think they were
relieved.
He laughs at the memory, brushes away a tear.
SAM (CONT'D)
Yeah. They were relieved... Not
long after that, Dean was back in
my life. And everything changed.
Everything.
Yeah. They were relieved... Not
long after that, Dean was back in
my life. And everything changed.
Everything.
INT. CABIN - CONTINUOUS
Dean catches the sound of his name. He hobbles toward the door to hear better.
EXT. CABIN - PORCH - CONTINUOUS
CASTIEL
He has nothing but your best
interest--
He has nothing but your best
interest--
SAM
--Just stop, Cass. Just--
--Just stop, Cass. Just--
Sam laughs sadly, shakes his head.
SAM (CONT'D)
I thought I was past this. I
thought I was past... Jess. And
everything else. It turns out...
I'm not.
I thought I was past this. I
thought I was past... Jess. And
everything else. It turns out...
I'm not.
CASTIEL
Part of Jess will always be with
you. Right here.
Part of Jess will always be with
you. Right here.
Sam closes up the scrapbook, pushes it off on Castiel.
SAM
Take it.
Take it.
CASTIEL
She’s in a better place.
She’s in a better place.
SAM
That doesn’t mean anything. But you
were right, Cass. Dean is my
problem.
That doesn’t mean anything. But you
were right, Cass. Dean is my
problem.
It’s Castiel’s turn to look confused. Sam motions to the camp, the scenery, the scrapbook.
SAM (CONT'D)
And all this?... was cruel.
And all this?... was cruel.
Sam steps off the porch, away from Castiel. Alone.
A sudden breeze. Castiel and the scrapbook gone.
A sudden breeze. Castiel and the scrapbook gone.
Dean still watches from the doorway. Unseen by Sam. He looks guilty as hell.
Sam breaks for the Impala, around the corner out of Dean’s sight. But Dean can hear everything. An open trunk, it being slammed shut. A pause. Then the smash of a crowbar through glass.
Dean flinches, closes his eyes, flinches again with the break of more glass.
A prayer on Dean’s lips.
DEAN
Not the body--
Not the body--
SMASH! More glass.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Not the paint--
Not the paint--
SMASH! More glass.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Not the hood...
Not the hood...
Silence. Dean opens his eyes. Spots Sam as he whips the crowbar toward the lake.
Sam heads for the woods. He doesn’t look back.
Sam heads for the woods. He doesn’t look back.
FADE OUT:
EPILOGUE
INT. CABIN - BEDROOM
The pill bottle on the night stand. Dean picks it up. Reflects on its contents. This time he pockets the bottle.
EXT. CABIN
Dean and the Impala. He hobbles around it, inspects the damage. Nothing but broken glass.
EXT. CABIN - PORCH - LATER
Dean hangs there, silent. Contemplative. He straightens up when he sees Sam returning from his walk.
Sam walks right past him. Right up the steps until Dean speaks up.
DEAN
Do you have a minute?
Do you have a minute?
Sam grudgingly turns back. He waits. For the first time in
his life, Dean is at a loss for words.
his life, Dean is at a loss for words.
DEAN (CONT'D)
I don’t know what to say... I
honestly don’t.
I don’t know what to say... I
honestly don’t.
SAM
Then don’t--
Then don’t--
DEAN
--I’m trying, Sam! I’m trying to
say that I’m sorry. Your life...
Our life? This wasn’t the plan.
This was never the plan. And I get
it. I do. It’s all my fault. Your
life might be better if I had never
come back for you... And I don’t
know how to fix it. I don’t.
--I’m trying, Sam! I’m trying to
say that I’m sorry. Your life...
Our life? This wasn’t the plan.
This was never the plan. And I get
it. I do. It’s all my fault. Your
life might be better if I had never
come back for you... And I don’t
know how to fix it. I don’t.
SAM
Maybe you should stop trying.
Maybe you should stop trying.
DEAN
So what. You're telling me to give
up on you? I can't do that.
So what. You're telling me to give
up on you? I can't do that.
The words strike Sam. He settles on the steps. An apparent dividing line between his side and Dean’s.
SAM
It’s not all your fault.
It’s not all your fault.
DEAN
Well, that’s a relief... So did my
baby have to take the brunt of it?
Well, that’s a relief... So did my
baby have to take the brunt of it?
SAM
I'm sorry.
I'm sorry.
Dean looks away.
DEAN
You should be.
You should be.
They continue to stare in opposite directions.
SAM
Dean, I scare myself. The whole
time I was dreaming? It wasn’t
about what you did. It was what I
did.
Dean, I scare myself. The whole
time I was dreaming? It wasn’t
about what you did. It was what I
did.
Dean considers his wounds.
DEAN
Did you try to kill me?
Did you try to kill me?
Sam’s lack of an answer is all Dean needs to hear.
DEAN (CONT'D)
Well... Was I being a dick?
Well... Was I being a dick?
SAM
Yeah... You were.
Yeah... You were.
DEAN
No grudges, then. Clean slate.
No grudges, then. Clean slate.
Silence. They fidget and steal glances at each other.
DEAN (CONT'D)
So, this dream world... Dream come
true, or nightmare?
So, this dream world... Dream come
true, or nightmare?
SAM
Both. Why?
Both. Why?
DEAN
Well, the part where you wanted to
kill me. Was it--
SAM
--No grudges, clean slate.
Well, the part where you wanted to
kill me. Was it--
SAM
--No grudges, clean slate.
DEAN
Okay, then.
SAM
I'm tired of being manipulated...
Used.
DEAN
Yeah, well I've got a hole in my
hand, so...
They both sigh and contemplate the lake.
DEAN (CONT'D)
I need a beer.
I need a beer.
SAM
It’s eight in the morning.
It’s eight in the morning.
DEAN
A little sympathy here?
A little sympathy here?
Dean indicates his wounds. Sam rolls his eyes.
SAM
I’ll see what I can find.
I’ll see what I can find.
INT. CABIN
Sam heads toward the kitchen, pauses at where the scrapbook once was on the dining table.
A single picture rests there. The smiling couple, Sam and Jess. Sam admires the picture. He pockets it.
KITCHEN
Sam opens the fridge. What once held a carton of overlooked sour milk and a couple of bottles of water now houses two bottles of beer. They’re ice cold. Pristine.
Sam looks around curiously, then grabs them.
EXT. CABIN - PORCH
Sam pops the caps, hands a bottle down to Dean.
DEAN
Ah, breakfast of champions.
SAM
When are you going to find
something original to say.
Ah, breakfast of champions.
SAM
When are you going to find
something original to say.
Dean looks to Sam offended. He takes a hit off his beer.
DEAN
Hipster.
Hipster.
They both look out at the sun over the lake. It’s quiet. Peaceful. They’re lost in it. Each from their separate side of the steps.
FADE TO BLACK.
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