Summary
Season 9 of Supernatural brings a rift between the Winchester brothers as they hunt down the powerful demon Abaddon, adding depth to their characters.
Dean is haunted by guilt and trauma stemming from his use of the First Blade. These emotional burdens manifest as distressing flashbacks and persistent sleeplessness, serving as a stark reminder of the aftermath of their battles against supernatural forces.
In the meantime, Sam's investigation takes him to Milton, where he uncovers a possessed nun. This encounter reveals Abaddon's plot to amass a formidable army by harnessing stolen souls. This revelation sets the stage for the ultimate clash between our protagonists and their formidable adversary.
The "Mother's Little Helper" episode of Supernatural marked a significant turning point in the series' ninth season, propelling the Winchester brothers closer to their ultimate goal of taking down Abaddon. Since its debut in 2005 on The CW, this beloved fantasy horror show has captivated audiences with its unique blend of humor and exceptional performances by Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles. As they navigate their way through a world teeming with demons, ghosts, vampires, and other terrifying creatures, the Winchester brothers have amassed a dedicated fan base that has remained loyal throughout the show's impressive 15-season run.
In season 9, tensions between the brothers grew as they pursued Abaddon, causing strain in their once-unbreakable bond. This gripping storyline provided viewers with a deeper understanding of the Winchester family, making it a must-watch even as the show entered its tenth year. "Mother's Little Helper" stood out amidst the season's episodes for numerous reasons. Notably, it set in motion the dramatic events that would ultimately unfold in the finale, amplifying the excitement surrounding the story. Additionally, this episode was directed by Misha Collins, best known for his portrayal of Castiel, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the viewing experience.
Dean Suffers Flashbacks
In the opening scene, a woman in Milton, Illinois brutally murders her husband after he criticizes her dinner choices. The episode then follows the Winchester brothers as they deal with the aftermath of their previous mission to obtain the First Blade. Dean, suffering from insomnia, spends his time researching their hunt for Abaddon. Sam tries to get Dean interested in the case in Milton, but Dean is distant and clearly affected by his use of the First Blade. He experiences tormenting visual flashes and is accused by Sam of being overly obsessed with the Abaddon case. Dean argues that his research is simply part of their job and insists that his focus is necessary. Sam sets out to investigate the Milton occurrence alone, while Dean resorts to alcohol to alleviate his pain. However, the effects of the Mark of Cain and its connection to the First Blade continue to haunt Dean. Additionally, "Mother's Little Helper" offers significant character development, making it one of the most chilling episodes in Supernatural season 9.
Sam Investigates Violence In Milton
Eager to find out what is happening in Milton, Sam heads to the police station only to learn that the murderous housewife had already taken her own life in her cell. This unexpected turn of events leaves Sam unsettled, prompting him to visit a nearby diner. It is there that he encounters a young hitchhiker who seems to have undergone a profound transformation, evidenced by his violent stabbing of a waitress. This compels Sam to intervene.
As Sam tries to understand the hitchhiker's behavior, he realizes that it is not of demonic nature, as Holy Water has no effect on him. Instead, he draws parallels between the hitchhiker's demeanor and the time when his brother, Dean, had lost his soul. Sam contacts Dean to share the new information, but finds him disinterested and moody. After ending the call, Dean experiences another disturbing vision. Despite being in Milton at a bar, Dean once again refuses to assist Sam in the case, considering it a waste of time as it does not involve the powerful Supernatural demon Abaddon.
Julia Wilkinson’s Story
In Milton, Sam encounters Julia Wilkinson, an older woman who is desperately trying to alert the police about the presence of demons. Unfortunately, law enforcement dismisses her claims. Sam, on the other hand, takes her seriously and listens as she recounts a significant event from her time as a nun in the 1950s.
In 1958, a group of Men of Letters arrive at Julia's convent for an investigation. It is during this time that Julia meets Henry Winchester and Josie Sands, both young initiates. Henry expresses doubts about joining the group to Josie. However, they soon discover that the convent has been targeted by the dangerous Knights of Hell, prompting them to take action.
During the night, Julia becomes a hostage when the possessed Mother Superior, who is actually the demon Abaddon, seizes control. Henry is incapacitated by Abaddon's immense power, and she realizes that they possess valuable knowledge as Men of Letters. To gain this knowledge, Abaddon chooses to possess Henry. However, Josie bravely pleads with the demon to possess her instead, and Abaddon willingly agrees. Henry and Josie then leave the scene, with Henry remaining unaware of Josie's possession.
Crowley Gives Dean The First Blade
Dean tries to numb his sorrows at a local bar, when suddenly Crowley (Mark Sheppard) pays him an unexpected visit. Crowley had been withholding the First Blade since the events of the previous episode. In season 9, episode 16 "Blade Runners," Crowley had joined forces with the Winchesters but took possession of the blade to protect himself from their wrath and to test Dean's readiness to wield it. Dean and Crowley engage in a heated discussion about addiction. Dean criticizes Crowley for his thirst for human blood, while Crowley points out that Dean is a "junkie" for the power of the Mark of Cain and the First Blade.
Crowley accuses Dean of avoiding a confrontation with Abaddon because he is afraid of the immense power he could unlock with the Blade and Mark. He even goes as far as comparing Dean to Cain, a comparison that Dean vehemently denies. As Crowley excuses himself to go to the bathroom, Dean realizes he is being followed by a hunter. Dean steps in to stop the pursuit. Witnessing Dean's heroics, Crowley is moved and decides that Dean is now truly ready to possess the First Blade.
Sam Confronts Sister Agnes
In the Supernatural episode "Mother's Little Helper," Sam investigates the issues in Milton by visiting the same convent mentioned in Julia's story. Sister Agnes, who is possessed, reveals to Sam that the glowing lights in the church are actually the stolen souls that will be used to create Abaddon's army. A fight breaks out, and Sam successfully defeats the possessed nun with his knife, freeing the trapped souls.
During a conversation with Julia, she confesses that Abaddon had forced her to remain silent, which explains why she never warned anyone about Josie's possession. A flashback shows that Henry has fully committed to joining the Men of Letters, while Josie carries out her secret plan to destroy the organization from within. The episode concludes with the Winchester brothers reuniting and brainstorming to confront the Abaddon problem.