Dean was about to search for the boys when a golden portal tore through the air before him, flooding the space with radiant light. Cass and Damon stepped out, their silhouettes outlined by shimmering gold before the rift sealed shut with a resonant hum.
Cass blinked in surprise when he saw who was waiting. "Uncle Dean?" His voice carried disbelief. "If you're here… then you managed it? Did you actually convince the Four Emperors?"
Dean exhaled, his jaw tight. "It was difficult. They asked for more than they had any right to, but yes—I got their agreement. Now, I need to talk to Zeke."
Cass's expression faltered. His eyes lowered, and silence settled uncomfortably between them.
Dean narrowed his gaze. "What happened?"
Cass hesitated. "Zeke is… preoccupied. Sort of."
Dean's tone sharpened. "Preoccupied with what?"
Damon, standing a step behind, spoke before Cass could answer. "With his cult."
