[ For Geralt, the possibility had lurked. Between the stories attached to the nature of the Mark itself, Lucifer had claimed the same—that death would not be the end for the bearer of it. Though Geralt had hoped for a different outcome, he's learned he cannot protect his family by sealing them behind thick walls. Dean—or what's become of him—has made his intentions clear.

So only one road lies ahead. ]

The Mark possessed some demonic influence. [ Hearing it from Lucifer had been one thing, but Nero had sensed it, too. Without having ever been told. ] It's taken him over.

[ But the details of how or why is not the reason he's come to Sam. Geralt carries on, hands planted on the table. ]

He's set his sights on my people. I need you to stay with Julie and Nadine. I've asked Ciri to go to their home.

[ The question, he imagines, must be on Sam's mind: What will you do? And perhaps Sam knows the answer already, deep down. It is not an answer Sam will like, but Geralt has no desire to hide his intentions. Not from his friends, not from Dean's. They can stop him if they wish; he'll do what has to be done. He'd spent long enough biding his time, searching for a solution this world could not offer in the end. It's too late for that now, and he won't risk anyone further for the memory of a man who is no longer walking. ]