Reviewer: SamGirl2011andBeyond (Signed) · Date: 18/04/12 07:32 PM · On: Epilogue Part 2
Another one that was completely awesome. You write your stories so well and you write the boys so well. The only thing I can say is that you are awesome. You are one of my favorite authors and I can't wait to read more of your stories. I'm almost through your whole list on this sit and I hope you feel up to and get a chance to write more fics soon, because I can't wait to read what else you have swimmin' around in your mind. Rating: 10 *Favorites*
Author's Response: Oh, my goodness, you tackled the monster! That's quite a feat - this was a beast to write, and ended up way over my original estimate of nine chapters...*shakes head*... When we hit about thirteen chapters, I think, we started a betting pool between the co-authors and beta, as to what the final word count was going to be. Petra won the jelly beans, as I recall. I was way off. Thank you very, very much. We slaved, sweated blood, and just about sold our souls for this fic. It took eight months, and that wasn't just a few hours here and there - there was hardly a day that went by when we weren't planning, researching, writing, actioning the beta notes, shooting emails back and forth about facts, scenes, dialogue, etc. It consumed us. But it was worth it. I think all three of us collapsed in a little heap at the end when the final chapter was ready for posting - and when we did post it, our beta was here with us in Oz on holiday, so we all crammed into my little home office and cracked open a bottle of red wine to toast the completion of the story. So from both Petra and me, thank you so much for motoring your way through this epic, and we are so very glad that you enjoyed the ride. Jules & Petra
Reviewer: WendyLee (Signed) · Date: 06/04/11 10:10 PM · On: Epilogue Part 2
Thanks, I needed some down time today and a little emotional, need the tissue, moment so I read this story again. It touches me each and every time. Any chance of a sequel? I would love to know what happens after the boys get home, and also what happens between Sam and Grace. (Sad puppy dog eyes here.......:)
Author's Response: Well, my goodness, that's a marathon and a half...and oh, no, not the puppy eyes! *shields face*...I can't look - I'll weaken... Petra and I have talked about a possible sequel - and I was toying with the idea of jumping about a year ahead of where Here At ended, and something bringing the boys back to Havre. But it's still very much on the drawing board (that is, it's still in my head...) so it won't be any time in the immediate future, sad to say. But in our universe, and our minds, I can reveal that the holiday was VERY successful as far as the blossoming relationship between Sam and Grace is concerned. Thank you so much for reading again, and leaving us another lovely review. I can't tell you how thrilled it makes us to know that we've touched your heart in such a way. Jules & Petra
Reviewer: WendyLee (Signed) · Date: 30/03/11 09:10 PM · On: Epilogue Part 2
Thank you for a wonderful story. All your hard work paid off!!!! You guys are on my "favorite author" list forever.
Author's Response: Thank you so much, Marcia, It always thrills Petra and myself when we get a new reader to this story. Hell, it thrills us when we get an old reader! LOL! I suppose you've read our authors' notes by now and know what went into writing this - this was truly a labour of love (of epic proportions). At times it felt like the story had completely taken over our lives - it consumed almost every waking moment and then some! Emails, phone calls, meetings over coffee and Thai takeaway - and lots of chocolate.... But we wanted to get a few things out in the open, as it were, and one of those things was Sam's innermost thoughts and the reasoning behind why he made his choices during Season 4. At least, up till 4.14 Sex And Violence, which was where we branched off from canon and into speculation. We also wanted to tell things from both boys' perspectives.
We truly appreciate the mission you went on to read this - the final length of the fic surprised even us! And we're chuffed to bits that you enjoyed it so much. Jules & Petra
Reviewer: zz1989 (Signed) · Date: 31/10/10 09:56 PM · On: Chapter 1
I just love this story. This is like the fourth or fifth time I've read it, and I'm sure I'll read it again.
Author's Response: Thank you so much for that. Oh, my gosh - fourth or fifth time??? That's a pretty monumental task - it's a loooong story.... It grew longer than even our estimates, constantly revised though they were, although Petra won the jelly beans in the competition we had between the authors and our beta as to who could come close to guessing what the final word could would be - lol. We thank you most sincerely for not only reading it through the first time, but coming back to re-read our 'little' AU tale. We're very touched and thrilled that our story has made such a favourable impact on you. Jules & Petra
Reviewer: ritsam (Signed) · Date: 22/08/10 11:27 PM · On: Author's Notes
Hi Jules, :))))))) I read it again and again and again and now I want to have in my book shelf. Soo...umm... can you mail me the print version of this story?? If you can, please, send me sooon... Ritu.
Author's Response: I can send it very soon. And I have a little surprise for you, too. But don't start jumping up and down just yet - it's not quite finished. I'll email you and let you know when it is. hugs Jules
Reviewer: gidgetgal9 (Signed) · Date: 14/08/10 07:00 PM · On: Epilogue Part 2
Hey girls- I did it I read it all!~ I've been saving this big bad boy for when I had a good hunk of time to read. So glad I did because once I started reading it- it was hard to put it down! So I'm on my vacation week with the kids and as they played at the pool, I'm was buried in such angst!- but loving every minute of it. Live Journal has a SPN Big Bang, and this has to be your big bang- and you both should be so proud. It is such a great story and told in such detail and it keeps the boys in character through out. I know it took over your lives a bit but I'm so glad you shared it with us- the readers. Thanks for the amazing ride! :) Claudia
Author's Response: Hey, Claudia, Oh, my gosh - you did it! That was a mammoth undertaking. And even for us, it was a monster of a story, the way it just kept growing and growing, exceeding even our own estimations. Petra, Sarah and I actually had a little wager going - how many words was the story going to end up being. Petra won - but then, as we started getting into chapter thirteen and fourteen, she changed her original prediction - LOL. And you're right - this was our "Big Bang". It took hours upon hours of research, writing, discussion, correction, hundreds - and I do mean hundreds - of emails back and forth, and I actually wore the print off three keys on my computer keyboard - and I think I killed a mouse in there somewhere, too. But it was worth it to get feedback like this, and to know that we transported you on this journey right alongside the Winchester brothers. Thank you for coming on this ride, hun. Jules
Reviewer: ritsam (Signed) · Date: 18/02/10 10:58 PM · On: Epilogue Part 2
okay...*takes a deep breathe* where do I start! I am practically speechless!! First, Sam unleashes extreme powers and defeats Lucifer, then Dean rescues him-but he thinks Sam's dead. When he realizes Sam's somehow alive, he calls Grace (I like the nurse since the other story) and helps his brother. Then Sam runs away and ends up in another town with a brain cancer! OMG, and those people-I like them very much. That doctor Blake, his wife Ginny, Aunt Em, Willa, Sharon, Catherine-are all major character and I like everyone. Especially Ginny. Blake is also very kind & good doc. They helped Sam when he was almost dying. And Sam's journal-practically broke my heart! Yes, we can't blame him. Everyone always orders him, but no one bothers to explain. No wonder he almost gave up his life and wished to die. But at last, Dean makes everything clear and give him the proof how much he loves his kid. Yes, Dean is practically the kid's father. And wow...Michael heals him, that's quite a surprise! That means, God still loves him. Awesome. And finally, Sam shaves. Oh Gosh, you have no idea, how long I've been waiting for this. I mean, clean shaved Sam is an example of beauty--I can't see him all beard faced, that doesn't suit him. And the finishing--awesome! Gracie and Sam, finally together. Dean's happy, Sam's happy and I am happy too. A perfect AU I have ever read. Awesome. I love it. Ritu.
Author's Response: Well - what a summary. Actually, when Petra, my co-author, and I went down to Sydney for the Con last April, we got the opportunity to see Jared and Jensen, and they weren't clean-shaven. They had very short beards. And when I saw Jared on stage for the Q&A session, one of my first thoughts was - 'now I know what Sam looks like with that beard'. We'd written about five or six chapters by then - possibly seven. Can't remember, but we weren't quite halfway through the story. And it gave us just a wonderful visual - I'd always intended for Sam to have a beard when Dean found him, but seeing Jared that weekend just crystallised it in my mind - and Petra's. And I have to tell you - they both do scruffy VERY well. It actually suited Jared quite well. Didn't detract one little bit from his rugged handsomeness. It was a pretty epic journey, wasn't it? We put a lot of thought and effort into this one, not just with the journey we were taking the boys on, but also with the OC's and their impact on the story and the brothers. But it was all about restoration of the brothers, and that was always the end goal we were working towards. Thank you for sticking with this epic, especially after the end of chapter two when things looked pretty scary and hopeless. Jules & Petra
Reviewer: ritsam (Signed) · Date: 14/02/10 08:08 AM · On: Chapter 3
just finished 1/3 of this chapter but couldn't stop myself to reviewing. The shirt which is Sam's favorite...is my fav too. I mean, I love this pink striped white shirt on Sam and fell in love of him once again when I'd first seen it in TKAA. That shirt was practically made for Sam..okay...babbling is over. Sam's still dead...but there are lots of chapters left. That means I can go on... See ya... Ritu.
Author's Response: Oh, hun......um......it's actually the white grandpa shirt with the florally pattern on it. Sorry - my description mustn't have been clear enough. It's the other pink shirt. The one Sam wore at the end of CSPWDT, at the start of Lazarus Rising, during the confrontation with Dean in Metamorphosis, at the end of Sex & Violence, at the end of WIAWSNB, etc. He usually wears either a maroon or a white tee shirt underneath. Sorry.....*blushes*...... But I hope that you're enjoying the story anyway. And hang in there - you might be surprised...... Jules
Reviewer: penmin (Signed) · Date: 13/11/09 09:55 AM · On: Author's Notes
Its taken me a long while to get to read this story, to start with I hadn't seen any of S4 so was wary of spoilers then I decided to wait until it was all done with. First of all I apologise for not leaving a review on every chapter, I became so engrossed in the story that my finger automatically hit the ‘next' key at the bottom of each one and I didn't even see the little white box at the bottom. So every chapter had five virtual stars! The story had me breathless at times, just in-case Sam really had died at the beginning, (even though I knew it wasn't a deaf-fic), angry at others when Dean beat up Sam! (Angry at Dean that is!), scared that Sam would never trust Dean again and laughing when there were lighter moments. The intensity made the world around me vanish; so much so that my Mum got annoyed and said I appeared to be glued to my laptop! I like the involvement of the Angels. The inclusion of Sam's cancer was very emotional, (you'd think there would be physical effects on him/them), and at the end I was so scared somehow Dean really would die in the snow! (Not a death-fic I know!) Lol. Then there they were at the end Sam was Sam again, Dean got his brother back, *sighs* I could say so much more but that would be a chapter in its-self lol, so I will just finish by saying thank you Jules and Petra for all your hard work putting this together, not surprised you need a rest now! Lol Jacq xx
Author's Response: Hullo, Jacq, Well....what can we say? Thank you for sticking with this, even though it did get quite dark and scary in quite a few places. And thank you for your faith in us, especially your conviction that it wasn't a death fic, despite us scaring you breathless with the chapter 2 cliffie. It awes us a fair bit to know that we've wrung such emotion from our readers - and truly, that's such a high compliment to pay us. Hope we're not in too much trouble with your mum, though - lol. But it's like the payoff after a long hard job - and it wasn't an easy road for either of us to write this. This was a huge project that just kept getting bigger as we found more stuff we wanted to put in or resolve for the boys. But restoration and redemption was at the very top of the list, and we were steadily working towards that picture in the story banner of the brothers sitting side-by-side on the bonnet of the Impala, having a beer. That was our goal, and we weren't going to stop until we got there. We're stoked that you loved what we did with the angels - Kripke's version has been very hard to wrap our heads around, especially in S5. As for the cancer - we watched Sam's pain and the nosebleeds when he exorcised demons with his mind on the show, and wondered.....and it seemed logical that the use of such unnatural powers would have to have an effect in the physical. Well, not much more to say except thank you again, for your heartfelt review, for the pretty stars, and for sticking with us until the very end. We're so glad you enjoyed the roller-coaster ride that we took you on. Jules & Petra
Reviewer: bhoney (Signed) · Date: 24/10/09 06:45 PM · On: Chapter 15
Sorry it's taking me to long to get through this--y'all write some MASSIVELY long chapters. Wow. "And you were good at it. You're a good hunter." He shrugged, letting a faint smirk curl his lips. "Not as good as me, but you just can't match this perfection." LOL Such a Dean thing to say. "Dean pointed his finger at his brother like aiming a pistol. "Exactly. You're in terrible shape." He ran a critical eye over his sibling's slender frame. "Just look at those love handles." "What?" The younger man snorted in disbelief. Casting a glance at his washboard stomach, he frowned before meeting his brother's amused gaze. "I do not have love handles." "Ah, Sammy." Dean shook his head in mock sorrow. It felt so good to tease his little brother again. "You got that whole muffin-top thing happening. Although, I guess some chicks'd just say there's more of you to love." ROTFL Hilarious! I loved the return of the brothers' banter. ""After all, you were the one named after our grandmother." The elder hunter's jaw dropped in shock. Sam's lips twitched in response, and Dean wondered just how long his little brother had been storing up that particular jibe, just waiting for the right moment." LOL I keep waiting for Sam to bring this up on the show, too. You know it's prime teasing material.
"he could have sworn that Sam had just hugged him with his eyes." Awww... "Maybe I could even build some shelves for you, huh? Turn Bobby's library into a real library, with books all along the walls. You could even have - I don't know - sections, like they have in the public libraries. Categories." I loved Dean's enthusiasm here, to make Sam feel at home again at Bobby's. Really sweet.
""Well, this is awkward. I'm a freakin' pillow." Dean looked at the tousled head nestled against his shoulder. "Dude, you'd better not make a habit of this."" Loved this moment. And this one, too: "And quit huggin' me with your eyes. Don't think I can't see you doin' it." LOL The payoff of the Alvin thing was great. Loved Dean's mischievous side coming out and him breaking it to Alvin that Sam's Source. I especially loved this: "See, I've got this weird kind of internal homing beacon where he's concerned. It might take a while, and there might be a few major-ass roadblocks along the way, but I'll always find my way back to him." Awwww...*sniffle*
"They're your friends." "You're my brother," the younger man stated softly but firmly." Great! (See, this is what I'm looking for in a Stanford friends fic, Jules--just perfect!) And I LOVED this moment: ""I'm coming back for you." Sam's eyes glistened as he recognised the gesture for what it was. His big brother's commitment. His big brother's promise. Dean owned few things, and what he did, he treasured as they represented who he was. Sam knew absolutely that Dean was giving a piece of himself more binding than Bill Whitesnake's blood brother pledge." *sniffles more* "I want it back, dude. Don't go getting any girly moisturiser all over it." Such a Dean thing to say, trying to deflect a chick-flick moment. Loved it. And I liked that Sam and Dean came clean with Blake about the angels and the boys interaction with Sam's friends in this chapter, too. Loved that they were able to see on the scans that there had been the start of a tumor but that it was gone now. I hope we get to see Sam start praying again.
Author's Response: We've been building steadily towards this moment - not specifically the humour, but Dean asking Sam to come back home and Sam finally accepting. The whole story has been about restoration, and the brothers getting back together again as family, and as the hunting team that they trained to be. As they were meant to be. And it was nice to play with those little brotherly moments along the way, especially after the initial explosion when Dean first came to Havre and found Sam. It was time, we felt, for them to start falling back into some of their old habits, and brotherly teasing was an important one. And we've been wondering too, why Sam didn't needle Dean about being named after their grandmother - how could he have let that little opportunity slide past? So glad you loved the eye-hugs. Sam does that a lot - just ask Bia1007. She's researched the first four seasons looking for them. She has a list - we've seen it. If you ask her nicely, she just might send it to you. And we're chuffed that you loved the pillow scene too. We wanted to show how much Sam has missed his brother deep down - how even though Dean was only in the next room, Sam couldn't sleep, but dropped off straight away once the decision was made and accepted, resting on big brother's shoulder where he felt safe - where he'd always felt safe, before the higher powers and their plans for the Winchesters drove them apart. The Alvin scene was actually written way back when the story was first conceived. I think of an idea, get a title and hopefully a tag line, and write a few random scenes - whatever pops into my head - and then start filling in the blanks. The phone call to Alvin only had to be tweaked a little bit to make it fit once we'd written up to that point. But we had to pay off Alvin - we couldn't leave poor geeky Phoenix hanging out in the wind. Oh, so stoked that you loved that line about Dean always finding his way back to Sam - that was in the original draft. And the bracelet scene - made very special to us since Petra recreated the actions when she gave me the replica of Dean's skull bracelet - we really wanted a solid affirmation for Sam. Giving him the amulet wouldn't have worked, as it just would have reminded Sam of Dean being really gone - when he was in Hell and Sam kept his amulet. Giving him the ring would have been - well - a bit strange, and we didn't want to go there. NEVER want to go there, actually. But I digress..... So really, the most logical choice was the bracelet. Something Sam could see and touch to remind him of Dean's promise that he was coming back. Because we all know Sammy - once that car went out of sight, the doubts would have hit him. We wanted something to counteract those doubts. Ah, so that's what you're looking - got it. And glad we could provide it without even knowing - lol. I'll keep it firmly in mind for your birthday story.
Thanks hun - we are chuffed that you're getting so much out of this story. Jules & Petra
Reviewer: bhoney (Signed) · Date: 24/10/09 08:02 AM · On: Chapter 14
"And Sam - Sam had marched willingly right down that same road he'd promised Dean that he wouldn't go down. Had taken his brother's dying wish and trampled it into the dust." Yeah, I can definitely see why Dean would be ticked off. I was fairly mad at Sam myself part of last season. "You called for God." Michael spread his hands from his sides. "He sent me to answer." I LOVE the way you're portraying God here--as He truly is, loving and concerned with his creation, and not turning anyone away, even someone's who's "tainted" or done unspeakable things. I haven't really appreciated EK's portrayal of God, the Bible, angels, Heaven, etc.--all things very dear to my heart, and which he's managed to make look pretty bad, overall. I'm glad you're trying to bring some redemption and faith back into the boys' lives. ""He lost his moral compass...You, Dean. He lost you." The Archangel clasped his hands loosely across his knees. "You - both of you - are each other's moral compass - each other's conscience, if you will. With you gone, Samuel lost his true north. In his desperation to get you back, he fell prey to the likes of Ruby."" Love that description of the boys' relationship. "For all we know, Samuel's death was possibly orchestrated to force you into making the deal, thereby leaving him alone, vulnerable and ripe for manipulation a year later when you were dragged to Hell. The enemy would have known the only way to get to Samuel was to take you out - whether by killing you, or by driving a wedge between you." VERY intriguing and plausible idea. I wouldn't be at all surprised to find out it's true. "I died for him, and I'd do it again in a heartbeat. I love him like he was my own kid." LOVED that.
""He wants you to remember what your name means. And he asks that you begin praying again. It's time to restore your faith." ...there was an Archangel standing in his living room, apparently not to strike him down, but to deliver a message from God. The God whom he thought had long since given up on ‘the boy with the demon blood'. "Samuel? Will you do that for Him?" God wants me to pray? Me? After what I did - what I turned into? Was He listening all that time, and I just didn't hear Him?"" Like I said above, I love what you're doing here. No one is too far gone for God to reach out to them and want them to pray. Love that you tied in the meaning to Sam's name. "It was too small for human technology, no matter how advanced, to detect. But not too small for God to see." Michael knelt at Sam's other side, reaching out to press the back of his hand against the younger hunter's cheek. "He's free of it now." I loved that Michael healed Sam. And the image of him cradling Sam in his arms was SO sweet. As was the image of Dean completely freaking out and rocking Sam when he'd collapsed. "Sam reached up one shaking hand to grasp the lapels of the familiar garment, breathing in the combined scents of his brother and his father. Those smells had always been associated with comfort and protection, and he closed his eyes as the memories flooded his mind. A warm presence settled beside him, wrapping one arm around his back before pulling him close. He sighed raggedly, leaning into the touch that he had needed for so long. " Awww, loved Dean giving Sam the jacket to wear, loved Sam getting comfort from the scents and touch. I wasn't expecting Sam to get pulled into an alley--a total surprise. Glad it was just Bill and that he was trying to look out for Dean. Whatever he's up to, I have to believe it's something that will help the boys, whether they want it or not.
Author's Response: LOL - we do write some massively long chapters. (probably why we don't get drabbles - ROFL) And we found out just how massive they could be when we each retired to our separate offices to work on the epilogue, put it together and came up with a 31,000-word chapter.... Know exactly what you mean about Kripke's portrayal of the heavenly host - I've struggled mightily myself with that all through S4, especially with Uriel. And now Zachariah - sheesh - not what I pictured angels to be. And even Cas to a certain extent - and it has to come out at some stage that he's the one who let Sam out of the panic room. Wonder how Dean's going to react to that little gem of information? But we also were mega saddened by the steady erosion of Sam's faith, so we wanted to make it a full restoration for him in this story. And that meant restoring his belief in a higher power, because that is a huge part of who Sam is. When he lost that faith, he lost part of himself. And I believe - hope - that in S5 when the boys do find God, that Sam will find God welcoming and not condemning. Aww, thank you for that - we worked really hard on the Michael scene. We wanted that mental image of Sam cradled like a child in the archangel's arms, and Dean having a fit because he thought he'd inadvertantly betrayed Sam. We needed him to absolutely fly over that last hurdle and be Sam's big brother again, and how better than for him to think Sam's been hurt or in deadly danger. As for Bill - well, time will tell. Actually, the opening paragraph of the next chapter will tell - lol. Thanks so much for reading, Beth, and for such an in-depth review. Jules & Petra
Reviewer: bhoney (Signed) · Date: 21/10/09 08:22 PM · On: Chapter 13
"It's okay." Ginny patted Dean's hand. "I cry like a chick with PMS too, sometimes." That cracked me up. Ginny's great! "That someone was Dean. Costello to Sam's Abbot. Yin to his yang. They'd been a team, and as far as the supernatural world was concerned, they used to be the deadliest double act in town. It was time for Sam to come home, and be part of that team again. And if the cancer did come back, then he wanted to be right by his brother's side to help him through it this time." Awww...*sniffle*
""Mom's friends - her doctor - her family - everyone who knew her..." Sam swallowed. "All gone. All because of me."" I'm glad Sam FINALLY told Dean about what he learned at the beginning of S3! Dean should've known long before now. The talk didn't go too well, eh? I know Dean will be back though. Really hoping Sam's not planning anything with those pills.
Author's Response: Hi, Beth, I agree - there have been far too many secrets between the brothers. I read an interesting meta the other day - or was told about it, can't remember now. But it basically said that in S5, Sam is projecting his own fears onto Dean, and reading too much into Dean's reactions. I think he's always done this, because one of his greatest fears is losing his brother's love. As smart, strong and independent as Sam is, if he hasn't got Dean's support, he's lost, teetering on increasingly shaky foundations. Aww, thank you for loving Ginny. I think out of all the characters I've created over the two - no, almost three - years I've been doing this, Ginny Monroe would have to be one of my top favourites. And yes, Dean will be back once he's cooled down. Hopefully he'll be back in time...... Thanks so much hun. Glad to see your'e still with us. Jules & Petra
Reviewer: Shannondoah (Signed) · Date: 04/10/09 09:27 PM · On: Author's Notes
Fabulous story and well worth the eight months (or more) it took to write! I've been a fan of mizpah for a while and Petra---you know I've always believed in you! So glad your new muse has dusted off the cobwebs and taken up residence! Absolutely fantastic story girls! You are the Dynamic Duo!
Author's Response: Thank you. It was a lot of hard work, but it was so worth it. Petra's on holiday in America at the moment, but she assures me that she has no less than three plot bunnies biting at her heels, so when she gets back, I'm going to nag her until she sits down and lets those plot bunnies have free rein. She's an awesome writer, and she's been sorely missed. Shannon, thanks so much for your wonderful reviews. We're so pleased that the story has given you so much pleasure. Jules & Petra
Reviewer: Shannondoah (Signed) · Date: 03/10/09 10:27 PM · On: Epilogue Part 2
Loved it! all of it! Every word! And tossing in songs along the way was very Kripke-istic!
Author's Response: Thank you very much, not just for coming along for the ride, but for leaving us your thoughts on how the story touched you. There is no greater compliment than to know that we've moved a reader. And it was a hell of a ride - one that even we didn't think would go for so long. Thank you again. Kripke-istic? That is high praise indeed.
Jules & Petra
Reviewer: Shannondoah (Signed) · Date: 03/10/09 09:43 PM · On: Epilogue Part 1
"Dean scanned left and allowed his eyes to cross to the right, knowing his brother was doing the same in reverse." Just one example of the detail which you liberally sprinkle throughout your story and which makes it not only quality work but a pleasure to read. Excellent piece! The Wizard of Oz reference was hilarious! I hadn't made the connection with Auntie Em. Then a few sentences later Sam says to Ginny, "I will miss you the most." Just like Dorothy said to the Scarecrow. How symbolic that the two brothers open the Impala doors then close them as one.
Author's Response: Okay - responding to this one. Thank you! We're stoked that you enjoyed that little scene - we wanted to show that despite the differences and the two years spent apart, those men still know each other - really know each other, and that it wouldn't take long for them to begin operating as a team again. They need each other. Oh, so chuffed that you loved the Wizard Of Oz bit. We've had that little line planned for quite some time, actually. And yep, Emily and Auntie Em's Diner was named for just that reason. And yep, it didn't take them long to get back in synch once all the baggage was dealt with, did it? They're almost home. Jules & Petra
Reviewer: Shannondoah (Signed) · Date: 03/10/09 09:15 PM · On: Epilogue Part 1
Dean scanned left and allowed his eyes to cross to the right, knowing his brother was doing the same in reverse. Just one more example of the little details you liberally sprinkle throughout your story which makes it not only quality work but a pleasure to read!
Author's Response: I think the review got posted before you were ready for it. Will respond to the one above, since there's a bit more in it. Jules
Reviewer: Shannondoah (Signed) · Date: 03/10/09 08:46 PM · On: Chapter 16
when Sam shaved off his beard I was both happy and sad. Ginny was right about mourning John Campbell (and I didn't even know him very well). Saying goddbye to John and hello to Sam was cool! Finally he cleared his throat, glancing uneasily at the sky before rolling up the window. "Uh - thanks." Dean's way with awkward understatement is a real gift. Glad you've captured that in your story! ...but Dean could still see Sammy in their glimmering depths. John Campbell was gone, and Sam Winchester had finally been restored to his rightful place. Slowly Dean moved forward, dropping a hand onto his brother's shoulder. "Welcome back, Sammy." Yay! The boys are back for good! I love the silent exchanges between Sam and Dean. Writing not only what they say but what they think and how they know the other's thoughts and how to respond is marvelous! It adds credibility and depth to the characters.
Author's Response: We thought it was an important bit of symbolism for John to shave the beard off as a last act before Sam re-appeared. And it seemed fitting to have Dean's statements as a running commentary in Sam's head while he did it. So you liked Dean's acknowledgement of answered prayer, huh? Yes, he is pretty much the master of understatement, isn't he? But in his defense, he probably didn't expect God to respond since he'd just chewed the Big Guy's ear off - LOL. And yes, Sammy is back. They're almost ready to make their way back home. Thank you. Jules
Reviewer: Shannondoah (Signed) · Date: 02/10/09 10:37 PM · On: Chapter 12
The bit about not having a microwave because of his radiation treatment was very cheeky! Never thought of it like that before. Duh! "When Dad put you in my arms the night of the fire, it was like he gave you to me." Wow! What a deep thought for a four-year old. One that only intensified and took on more meaning as Dean grew older. With every chapter a little more of the brotherly bond returns. The bedtime story must have been a very familiar, intimate tradition between the Winchester boys. One that still holds meaning for both of them.
Author's Response: Yep, we sort of figured Sam would be a bit leery of anything being zapped around him after the radiation treatment. So it seemed natural that he wouldn't want a microwave. And yes, we have thought for a long time that Dean is much more of a parent than a brother to Sam. And that's why he finds it so hard to let go. That heartbreaking gesture at the end of AHBL1 of Dean brushing the hair from Sam's eyes was such a parent to child thing to do. And it brings tears to our eyes no matter how many times we see it. The brotherly bond is indeed returning. The whole story is about restoration - for both brothers. They've been through a lot, and there is a little bit to go, but there is light at the end of the tunnel now. Oh, the bedtime story. That just sort of popped into my head as I was writing - and it seemed to fit. Not the actual content, but the sound of Dean's voice and the reassurance that it meant, lulling Sam back to sleep.
Thank you for sticking with the story, and for your wonderful reviews. They are gold. Jules & Petra
Reviewer: Shannondoah (Signed) · Date: 02/10/09 09:06 PM · On: Chapter 15
Blood brothers?! Marvelous! I'd hoped that Bill Whitesnake wasn't involved in anything that would harm our boys. Whew! That was close!00 He couldn't be one hundred percent certain, because it had been a long time since he had received that particular look from his brother. But he could have sworn that Sam had just hugged him with his eyes. What an awesome statement! The feeling between the two brothers transported from the computer and straight into the place in your heart that makes tears. I luuuuuuvvvvvv the passage where Dean is racing Sam to the diner and Ginny sees them! It's fabulous! Oh my stars! I had to re-read that twice and it made me laugh every time. It was such a natural Winchester thing---competition between the two brothers, Dean laughing at Sam, Sam doing his best to prove himself to his brother. The boys are back! Without words, gestures or even a look, these boys just knew how to be with each other. That got me! It's such a simple statement and yet perfectly sums up the relationship between the boys.
Author's Response: No, we couldn't paint Bill in a bad light. He's definitely on their side. Ah, the eye-hug. Thank you - we're so glad you loved it. Sam used to give them often and freely. They're not so frequent in S4 - one has to really look for them. And I've seen none in S5 so far - but I haven't given up hope of finding one. Stoked that you loved the running scene. We needed Ginny to see them - it served two purposes. One was to see that Sam had actually been healed, and the other was to see the boys together, interacting as they used to - and the difference having Dean around is making to Sam's behaviour. John Campbell is fading - Sam Winchester is starting to awaken. Oh - that last line you quoted is Petra's little gem - one of many. She's brilliant at those little touches. So happy that it struck such a chord with you. Jules & Petra
Reviewer: Shannondoah (Signed) · Date: 02/10/09 04:52 PM · On: Chapter 14
Wow! I'm soooo glad God is taking notice of Sam for the good man he is. I hated that he's always seen by Heavenly beings as a blight on humanity. He's had so much fatih for so long, I can't believe there would be no reward for that. God never turns away from anyone and sending Michael to ask Sam to start praying again is proof of that. God needs Sam as much as he needs Dean. The visual of Michael carrying Sam is one that will stay with me for a very long time. It's a shame Sam won't remember it. "And the angels - they brought you out of Hell, but they didn't - they didn't give you back to me." How many times are you going to break my heart? I think I need to put the good tissues on my desk, the lotiony ones. "Vampires, right? I love a good comedy." "It's not meant to be funny, Dean." "Yeah, but Hollywood vampires are always a riot, dude." Too funny! Now we're getting back to the old Sammy and Dean. *sighs contentedly* And that's such a nice feeling.
Author's Response: I'm with you - I don't believe God turns away from anyone, and I hated that Sam's faith was slowly and steadily eroded during S4 until there was nothing left. So this chapter was very important for us - we felt right back at the beginning of the story that Sam couldn't be completely restored unless his faith was renewed as well. It's such an important part of who Sam is. So this chapter, and the Sam and Michael scene in particular, has been planned for quite a long time. Ah, sorry about that - we didn't mean to break your heart. But we felt that was how Sam would have seen things, especially with the angels dragging Dean away and leaving him behind. And yep, the brothers are gradually finding their rhythm again. Thank you so much.
Jules & Petra
Reviewer: Shannondoah (Signed) · Date: 01/10/09 07:50 PM · On: Chapter 13
Don't do it, Sammy! Dean will kill you for even thinking it. Evil cliffhanger there girls! "The bottom line was, Dean wanted Sam back....all they had left was each other. It was time to remember that, patch up their differences and start being brothers again." That warms my heart! this is what I've been waiting for all this time! It's okay." Ginny patted Dean's hand. "I cry like a chick with PMS too, sometimes." Great line!
Author's Response: Yep, very evil cliffie - we worked hard on that one. So stoked that you loved that inner thought of Dean's about wanting his brother back. Even after everything they'd been through, that was the most important thing - family. Thank you - glad you liked Ginny's little line of comfort. Ginny was a great character to play with. And she gets the boys - both boys. She's on their side. Jules & Petra
Reviewer: Shannondoah (Signed) · Date: 01/10/09 07:13 AM · On: Chapter 11
Damn! It's getting REALLY good and I have to go to work! Think they'd miss me at school? Damn! Thanks for clearing up the question about the Impala. I was worried! Sam's reaction was spot-on! The Impala is as much a part of Dean as his amulet. Catherine watched the exhausted medico walk away before throwing up her hands in frustration. "Anyone got a short story they want to tell me?" That got a shout of laughter from me. Been there---done that. Bendy straws and frou frou coffee. Awww! Now that's real love! "Suck it up, Campbell..." That broke my heart! He even thinks of himself as a Campbell and not a Winchester any longer. *lonely tear slides down my cheek*
Author's Response: LOL - I do think they'd miss you, hun. Sorry about that. But I know how you feel - I've been hooked into a story myself quite a few times and have wanted to ring work and say I wasn't coming in, just so I could keep reading. *sigh*...real life sucks sometimes. No worries - the Impala's safe. But we did think it would give Sam a bad moment seeing a different car. Oh, so glad you loved poor Catherine's frustration at all the long story excuses she was being given. And yep, bendy straws and frou-frou coffee - does it every time. And don't worry - Sam Winchester is still inside John Campbell - and with the arrival of his big brother, he's going to start re-emerging into the light where he belongs. John Campbell is slowly fading away. Jules & Petra
Reviewer: Shannondoah (Signed) · Date: 30/09/09 06:01 PM · On: Chapter 10
Fianlly, the healing can begin. Sam and Dean comforting each other just by being brothers is the best medicine! Lets get some repentance and forgiveness going and get back to some stubborn, ass-kickin' Winchesters.
Author's Response: Yes, it can. They're not quite there yet - they still have to "talk". But just the close proximity to each other has already begun the healing that they have long wished for. They will remember that they are a team, that they're family, and that's more important. But there are a few little hurdles to get over first. Let's see how they go with getting through the next few days, and the inevitable chick-flick moment that is looming rapidly on their horizon... Jules & Petra
Reviewer: Shannondoah (Signed) · Date: 30/09/09 04:23 PM · On: Chapter 9
How sad that Sam truly believed that Dean would kill him. As if that isn't bad enough, he thinks it will be a quick, merciful killing. He's apparently given this some thought. It's horrible that as afraid of his brother as he is, he still needs him, cries out for him. "They were sitting side by side, doing homework or something. They were just working beside each other, not talking, just...peaceful, like they belonged. I instantly recognised that ease with which they could ignore each other yet be fully aware of each other and it felt like a jolt of electricity hit me. I did try to get a grip but then the big brother leaned across and nudged his baby brother with his shoulder without even looking up from his book and I knew I had to get out of there. I know I would have seen that little kid lean back into that nudge and I couldn't bear to see it. In fact I'm pretty sure he would have stayed leaning for a bit because that's what I would have done. Did it most of my childhood." That passage is a killer! It's so much more than words, it's a warm fuzzy feeling that envelopes you. I had a lump in my throat. Especially when you foolow it up with Sam writing about the mistrust and suspicion that he and Dean saw in one another's eyes.
Author's Response: These wonderful journal entries are the product of the brilliant mind of my co-author Cookie6. She dug deep into Sam's repressed thoughts and emotions, and his reasons for doing what he did, and took us all - me included - on a truly awesome journey through his mind. Yes, it is sad that Sam has hung onto the words that Dean didn't mean, choosing to believe them instead of remembering their history, and Dean's "I'd rather die" in BUABS when possessed Sam asked him to shoot him. That was a pretty damned awesome little scene, wasn't it? Those harrowing, thought-provoking, emotionally charged scenes are Petra's forte. And the symmetry between the two little boys and the Winchesters - reminding Sam of what he's lost - brought tears to our eyes too. Jules & Petra
Reviewer: Shannondoah (Signed) · Date: 29/09/09 05:30 PM · On: Chapter 8
Excellent chapter! I'm glad we finally have some background about what Sam's been up to in the past year. The journal entries are a neat way to give us the scoop and still feel Sam's emotions. Why is Dean driving a chevelle?! Where is his baby?! Poor Sam! How horrible it must have been for him to cut himself off from his brother when he actually needed him most of all. Both Winchesters are pridefully stupid! Even after they realize they need one another, they refuse to reach out. Haven't they learned that sacrificing for your brother just bites you in the tukus? Dean's life seemed like a fun time compared to Sam's. At least he wasn't wrong about Sam being Phoenix. Those two just get one another. Like the passwords----hilarious!
Author's Response: So glad you like the journals. More will be revealed over the next two chapters about Sam's missing two years. And no, it's no walk in the park. Despite all his worry and angst, Dean did have a much easier time than our Sammy. The Chevelle is in the process of being done up to sell. So Dean's driving it at the moment to make sure he's got the engine all tuned up and running like a dream. The Impala's safe back at Bobby's. And of course, if Sam had seen the Impala on the main street, he wouldn't have gone into the diner...... Well, Dean's sort of right about Sam being Phoenix - and sort of wrong.... Jules & Petra
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