"Yeah, think you're right about that," Blake agreed, his hand coming up to rub at his chin. "Lotta hard work already went into this whole ordeal. Be a shame to quit now. Didn't really think that was a possibility — not with so many proactive people here — but thought I'd check in and ask, anyway." Everyone deserved an out, right?

As he walked along, John reminded himself that there was still much to be done. There'd always be new things to do, always be something that needed planned or tended to. At the moment, they were a loose organization, but when Winchester had been around, they'd felt a lot tighter as a group. That sort of thing was essential, Blake believed, in order to keep a united front in the face of anything and everything Wonderland tossed at them.

"So, sayin' that, you're dedicated to workin' with me? Makin' this happen whether they come back or not? Think we've got James and Daryl and Shannon still ready to help out, too, so I can kinda see where we are by knowin' where you are."