(no subject)

[theamazingdalet.livejournal.com]

Of course I forgot to put this in the actual post, but you know what’s most amazing here?

As I’ve theorized before (ex here), s6 was probably a low point for Cass & Balthazar’s relationship. There was lying, and resentment, and real trouble with communicating and understanding each other

and yet, because of the rock solid foundation under them, they STILL came out, in 5 episodes, as having one of the healthiest relationships on the show.

I mean, think about the end of their first scene: “You’ve gone insane,” says Cass derisively. A few lines later, Balthazar says, “All else aside, I’m really, really happy to see you. …Even though you still have that stick up your ass.”

They just traded barbs! But was either of them stung? I honestly can’t tell. If they were, then Balthazar’s reference to Cass’ line in his amused, “You may be certifiable, but,” seems to me to indicate forgiveness.

Cass and Balthazar can disagree, and argue, and still pull through in a genuine way because of the deep well of love that they’re ultimately standing on.

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Again, by contrast, when Cass and Dean confront each other, it’s bitter and ugly, every time. Cass gives his side, even pleads for understanding and support, and Dean just attacks, refusing to understand.

It’s not even restricted to arguments; Dean throws barbs like the “baby in a trenchcoat” line all the damn time, and Cass is visibly hurt every time. He would never adopt those insults as in-jokes or, God forbid, loving gestures the way the fandom has.

I’m not a fan of it, but lots of real friends “insult” each other, and it’s taken in stride, with laughter, because they know how it was meant. They trust each other. Without that foundation, though, they’re just insults, plain and simple.

And Cass’ face every single time says that foundation, with Dean, is wholly absent.