Thank you so much! And my goodness! Your insights are Very Very Interesting! Hope is such a strange and powerful thing, even in a 'verse as dark as this one, but I think you're right that there's a lot going on under the surface for both Sam and Dean in this very precarious situation. I think there may be more options than yet seem available, though, I'd say keep an open mind. I do, however, love the way you describe Dean as a flickering light, though, because in many ways you're right. He's like a zippo fighting to light up a world full of darkness or, if not the world, at least to light a better path for himself and his brother. Hopefully you'll continue to enjoy watching this 'verse unfold. I do really appreciate your feedback!