WebNovels

The Power Issue

ransisweird
14
chs / week
The average realized release rate over the past 30 days is 14 chs / week.
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Synopsis
Dean Jeeves lives in a world where people with powers are seen as monsters and discriminated by the whole world. His admittedly almost perfect life gets ruined when he manifests his own power. Things only get worse for him as he struggles his way through his new life, and just wanting things to go back to normal.
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Chapter 1 - Prologue: The last day of normality

A person's life can change drastically at any given moment. You never know what the future has in store for you. You can manifest your power at any time, it doesn't matter. All it takes is one glowing body part to get you shunned from society. Hated and threatened until you eventually flee to "the bad part". There's no real names for the two places in this world. People just refer to them as the good part, and the bad part for simplicity's sake. It makes it easier to separate this world into two parts due to how small it is. Only about the size of New York State for us.

Power? Glowing body part? Why are they hated so much? As recent as 400 years ago, people have started getting powers. No one knows how it started, all we know is how it went. Bloodshed. People turning into monsters. Ever since then, the world leaders have made it their mission to keep them in line. Strike fear into their hearts to keep them from rising up and making the world a living hell. Obviously what they don't understand, or choose not to understand, is that that time has passed.

There can only be one world leader at a time. The qualifications or tests to determine if a person is worthy of being a world leader has never been made public, nor will it ever. The current world leader is a thirty two year old woman named Christina. Her last name is unknown. Out of all the world leaders, she seems to do the best job at making anyone with a power afraid of her. Just like most things that have to do with the world leader, no one knows how she accomplishes this feat.

When a person goes to the bad part, they basically have to fend for themselves. There's no laws or government. It's basically "If you stay over there and don't cause trouble for us, then we won't cause trouble for you". Society does exist there, but it's very crude compared to the society of the good part. Most people just want to try and continue living a normal life. Other people like to take advantage of their power and have whatever fun they can. And other people are just so messed up that they lash out at people out of sheer grief. It's pretty much a place of misery no matter who you are.

A glowing body part is basically a death sentence. Or at least it tells you that your current life is over. You see, the easiest way to tell if someone has a power is if a body part of theirs is glowing. Doesn't matter the part. Could be an eye, a nose, hair, an arm, or even a fingernail. If it's glowing, you're screwed. Again, no one knows why it glows, but it does. Makes it easier to point out people with power. And it only glows while a person is using their power. It's not a 24/7 thing.

Everyday people manifest their power. It doesn't happen to everyone, but you never know if it will happen to your parents, your best friend, or even you. It's something to always worry about. Except the person who should be worried the most about it, isn't the least bit concerned.

They say that the world doesn't revolve around you. But for Dean Jeeves, it almost does. Of course he doesn't know that yet, but he will come to understand. But right now, he sits in his last class of the day, counting down the seconds until he can go home. Completely unaware of the fate that awaits him.

Dean is a sixteen year old boy. He's about 5'6" with brown hair and he usually wears a light blue, almost cyan hoodie. The only times he doesn't wear it is when it's dirty, or too cold to wear. He'll wear it even if it's too hot though. Dean has always been a smart kid, easing his way through life, yet still claiming how much he hates so many things.

Hate. A word Dean doesn't understand. Despite how much he uses it, he doesn't truly hate anything. He's never felt such a burning anger towards something to the point that it fills him with rage to just think of its existence. There would only be one thing that Dean would truly come to hate in his life. Something he despised so much that he refused to die until it was gone. But right now, the only things he claims to hate are his boring classes, or classmates he doesn't like, or even his favorite singer going on hiatus.

Ashley. The girl Dean loved. Although she was just a singer on the internet, Dean couldn't help but fall for her. He didn't know why, and he always called himself stupid and an embarrassment for feeling that way, since he could never really see her in person. It wasn't that she was too popular to make public appearances. It was because she lived in the bad part. And of course since Dean doesn't live there, and hopefully never will, he would never be able to see her.

Four minutes until the end of class. Dean stared at the clock as he bounced his leg. Whatever the teacher was rambling was lost on him. The only thing on his mind is that he needed to get home. As the bell rings, Dean grabs his bag and gets ready to run to his bus, before his friend stops him.

Liam: Hey Dean, you still coming with the rest of us? We're gonna walk down to the creek like we planned and just hang out. I know you usually like to go home and be by yourself, but we did plan ahead of time this time. So can you still come?

Dean: Oh shoot wait it's today?

Dean pulls his phone out of his pocket to check the date. Monday, March 25th, 2024. The day they planned to hang out. Dean internally groaned as he realized he'd have to go.

Dean: Oh yeah yeah yeah. Yeah I can go. Like right now? Or like can I go home and drop my bag off first?

Liam stared at him looking skeptical, but still deciding to trust his friend.

Liam: Yeah sure that should be okay. As long as you don't stay home alright? Like seriously we wanna hang out with you dude. Please actually show up this time.

Dean: Yeah of course of course! I promise I'll go. I just don't wanna carry my bag around all day you know?

Liam nodded before heading towards the door with a wave. Dean followed but still kept some distance. As they walked, he contemplated if he would really go or not. Listing the pros and cons in his head. Eventually he took a few quick steps forward and grabbed Liam's shoulder

Dean: Hey. I swear to you that I'll actually go this time. I'm done being a loser. I want to enjoy the time I have left before I graduate.

Liam: I know you say that, but it is kind of hard to believe at this point you know? You've bailed on us so many times. I almost didn't invite you cause I knew it'd be pointless. But if you're actually gonna come this time, that'd be awesome.

Dean: Yeah yeah I know I promise I'll go. But like seriously, just give me like twenty minutes to go home and get ready okay? I swear it won't take too long and I'll like run to the creek too once I'm done.

Liam: Alright. I really hope you mean it. See you later then dude

Dean: Yeah

The two of them went in different directions of the hallway. Dean waved to Liam before turning completely and heading out the door of the school. Dean was one of the few students who liked to walk home, mainly because he lived pretty close to the school. It was only about a fifteen minute walk.

Dean pulled out his phone to check if he had any messages or other notifications. He sure did. A new video from Ashley. He felt his heart begin to race, as it always did when she uploaded a new video. A wave of energy flowed through Dean as he began to run. The wind whipped across his face as he ran as fast as he could, not even looking for cars when he crossed streets. He just kept running and running.

Dean (Inner): New video new video new video new video new video new video! I cannot wait to watch it! Jeez why am I like this? I'm such a loser for feeling this way. Obsessing over some girl on the internet the way I am. Technically speaking, I'm better than her since she has a power and I don't. But none of that matters! The only thing that matters is that I need to watch this video right now!

Dean felt a slight tingle in his chest. He clutched where his heart was, assuming that it was just his heart racing from excitement, and the fact that he had been running full speed for over a minute. He didn't pay any further attention to the feeling in his chest. He was too focused on getting home and not collapsing. Maybe if he paid a little more attention, he would notice the glow coming from under his shirt, and prevent everything that's to come.

After a few minutes of running, Dean reached the front of his house and finally lost his footing, causing him to collapse onto the floor. He rolled for a few seconds before stopping on his back. Despite the bruises he would definitely have, and the cuts over his body, Dean just stared into the sky with a grin on his face as he caught his breath. 

Dean: Holy… shit… that was… a lot of running. I'm… gonna die.

Dean (Inner): Okay too tired to actually talk out loud. Can't really move. Jeez, why did I run like that?

He chuckled in between gasps for air.

Dean (Inner): Guess I gotta just lay here until I catch my breath huh? That'll be a while. Then I'll probably have to run to the creek too. Unless I want Liam and the rest to assume I'm not coming and go on without me.

He starts to cough. All the running really hurt his lungs. He can even taste blood in his throat. He waits until he stops coughing before continuing his thought.

Dean (Inner): Ugh that hurt. I can always just let them know I'll be late I guess. But I do really want to show up on time. I already have a pretty bad reputation with this kind of stuff, and I don't want to make it worse.

As his breathing finally begins to slow down, he grabs the grass and squeezes his eyes shut as he thinks.

Dean (Inner): I'm totally gonna be late. There's nothing I can do about that. Even if I were to start running there, I wouldn't make it. I still have to finish catching my breath, get ready, and drink a lot of water. Plus my mom will probably stop me and ask a bunch of questions like how my day was, where I'm going, who I'm going with, what time I'll be back, blah blah blah

He loosens his grip on the grass. He's able to breathe through his nose at this point, but still deeply. He opens his eyes but quickly squints them again as the sun is almost directly overhead.

Dean (Inner): Plus… there's that video. I still wanna watch that as soon as possible

His heart begins to race again as he thinks about it. And his breathing gets quicker.

Dean (Inner): Why am I like this? I'm such a loser. What would everyone else think if they found out I like her? They'd probably hate me. At the very least they'd laugh at me. I don't think a single one of them would be supportive. Whatever. Whatever makes me happy right?

He sits up.

Dean: What does make me happy?

As Dean stands up and walks towards the door, he continues to think.

Dean (Inner): Am I happy? Well I mean like… yeah. But what do I have to be happy about? Is the fact that nothing is wrong with my life enough to determine that I'm happy? I can still be sad with nothing wrong right? It's just being irrational.

He continues to think. He pulls out his key from his bag and begins to unlock the door.

Dean (Inner): I guess I'd say I'm happy. I don't cry much and I laugh and smile a lot. But I suppose I do feel a little bit depressed when I'm alone at home. That feeling like I don't belong. And I'm inferior. Not like something could go wrong at any moment. But more like something is wrong, that I'm just not aware of.

He unlocks the door and steps inside. His mom is sitting on the couch watching tv before she leaves for work. His mom works late, while his dad works early. Both his parents are barely ever home. The only time he gets to see them both is when he gets home. But it's only for fifteen minutes before his mom leaves for work.

Dean: Hey mom. Whatcha watchin?

Dean's Mom: Whaddup dude?

His mom shoots him with finger guns, trying to look cool, but in an ironic way. Dean cringes and tries to ignore it.

Dean's mom: I'm just watching the news. Apparently they only recently finished putting security cameras in the world tower.

The world tower is basically like the white house of this world. It's where the world leader lives and does business. There's also a lot of research on technology and sciences and other things. There's even the world's only bank there. It is the most important structure on the entire planet.

Dean: What? Are they stupid? How has nothing happened to them yet without cameras everywhere?

Dean's mom: I dunno. Pretty neat though huh?

Dean: Yeah I guess.

Dean places his bag down on the floor so he can untie his shoes. Before he does though, he turns on the lamp on the table next to him. His mom likes to watch tv in the dark for some reason, so Dean couldn't see much. Normally the light illuminating from the television would be enough to see, but considering that Dean just came from outside, where the sun was shining bright, his eyes need a little bit of time to adjust to this new lighting. He reaches his hand out and turns on the lamp. The light still feels dim to him, but it's enough to untie his shoes with.

Once he finishes, he turns the lamp off and picks his bag back up. He begins to walk but stops and turns to his mom.

Dean: I'm just gonna get some stuff and chill for a few minutes, then some friends wanted me to come with them down to the creek. I probably shouldn't take too long since they don't really trust me to show up anyways, and I'll probably be late anyways. But yeah. Figured I'd let you know.

Dean's mom: Do you just want me to drive you to wherever your friends wanted to meet up? I'm leaving for work anyways so it wouldn't be an issue.

Dean: Well uummm… What time do you gotta go?

Dean's mom: I can leave right now if you need me to.

If Dean were to leave right now, he wouldn't have time to watch Ashley's new video. He could always sneak watch it while walking down the creek with his friends, but he didn't want to risk them finding out about his obsession. He could always say no and watch the video, but then his mom would probably get suspicious about something, since who wouldn't accept that kind of offer in his situation?

Dean: You don't have to. I can just walk. It's no big deal.

Dean's mom: Well where are you guys planning on going?

Dean: Well uhh… They said we were gonna meet up at the creek or whatever. But I don't really know what we'd be doing after that so. That's usually just the meetup spot and then we do whatever we want pretty much.

Dean's mom: The creek? That's just down the road. I can absolutely just drop you off on my way. Come on, let's go!

Dean: Mom yeah it's just down the road. I can literally just walk. It's fine.

Dean's mom: Yes but it would take you ten minutes to walk at least. You said you're already running late so let me just drop you off. I don't know why you're being so difficult about it, Dean.

Wasting time. With the time spent talking, Dean probably could've finished that video. Enough stalling. He makes a decision.

Dean: Fine fine okay jeez! Just let me put my bag away and put on clean socks or something.

Dean's mom: Alright well hurry up. I need to leave soon.

Dean: Yeah I will. Like five minutes okay?

Dean heads towards his room, his pace quickened. He doesn't have much time to watch this video. Once he gets to his room, he throws his bag and pulls out his phone. The volume button is pressed once or twice to keep it low. The video begins to play. A small wave of disappointment crashes over Dean as he realizes it isn't a music video. This disappointment soon vanishes, as he finds out that it's something even better.

Ashley (Video): H-hey guys.

It was always obvious that Ashley was not a sociable person. It was clear as day that she had a passion for making music, not caring if money was involved, but just doing it out of sheer love. But it was even more obvious that she was the type of person to keep to herself. Maybe she had social anxiety? Doesn't matter. What does matter is that she definitely doesn't like to talk to people, or interact. She probably doesn't even feel anywhere near comfortable with something like public speaking, which would explain why she looks so nervous in this video.

Dean (Inner): If she isn't comfortable with this kind of stuff, then why does she continue to do it? Well actually… yeah okay wait it makes sense. She only ever uploads music, not music videos. I assume it's much easier to just sing and upload that, so that you're not on camera. I don't think she's ever actually been on camera in a video has she? I only know what she looks like from her posting pictures of herself online. I guess this video must be super important for her to be doing this.

Ashley can barely even look at the camera. She just looks down and rubs her arm as she speaks. Dean notices a blush on her face that he thinks is cute.

Ashley (Video): I know this is kind of sudden… sorry about that. But I'm gonna be doing a concert.

Dean (Inner): SHE'S DOING A CONCERT!?

Ashley (Video): It's gonna be in like… two weeks I think. Sorry I can't remember. But uhh… sorry. The date and time and location and stuff will be in the description of this video. So yeah. It'll be a free concert since… can't really make people pay for stuff like this here.

Dean instantly scrolls down to check the description of the video. He takes a quick screenshot of all the information before returning to the video.

Ashley (Video): There will still be some cool stuff though… so don't worry about being bored. There'll be a part where I get lifted up by a harness with like smoke machines and stuff. It'll be really cool.

Her expression starts to light up as she clearly becomes more comfortable and passionate with her speech. All that excitement quickly fades as she addresses a clear issue.

Ashley (Video): Most of you probably know this by now… but I'm not really the best with public interaction. It's not like I have any anxiety or anything, I'm just pretty introverted. I like to keep to myself. I can hold conversations but I'm just not used to it I guess. I'm just pretty awkward but I'm trying.

She chuckles and finally looks at the camera as she says that last part.

Ashley (Video): So anyways… yeah. I think this whole thing will be pretty cool. I don't expect many people to show up, but that's fine. As long as at least one person shows up… that would be super awesome. But yeah… see you guys.

She smiles and waves before the video ends. It wasn't a genuine smile, but Dean still loved it anyway.

Dean (Inner): OH I WILL ABSOLUTELY BE ATTENDING THAT CONCERT ARE YOU KIDDING ME!?

It takes a few seconds for reality to set it. Ashley lives in the bad part, while Dean lives in the good part. There's not a shred of a chance that his parents would let him go. He doesn't even have time to mourn this fact before his mom knocks on the door.

Dean's mom: Dean! Are you ready!? Come on! We need to go, Dean! Get out here!

Dean: Yeah yeah gimme a second!

Dean shuffles out of his room looking upset.

Dean: Alright. Let's go.

Dean's mom: Are you okay? Something happen?

Dean: Yeah no I'm fine. Let's just go.

Dean's mom: Oh… okay then. If something is wrong though, please let me know. I'm always here to listen to your troubles Dean. That's my job after all. To take care of the cute little boy that I love so much!

She pulls Dean into a big loving hug, to which he squirms and tries to escape.

Dean: Mom stop! Can we just go already!?

Dean's mom: Alright alright I'll stop, grumpy pants. I do love you though, Dean. And I am here to listen to you.

He doesn't respond. He just walks into the living room and puts his shoes on. His phone vibrates. When he pulls it out to check it, it's a message from Liam.

Liam (Text): Hey man. It's been half an hour at least. Are you still coming?

Dean (Text): yeah yeah of course. im actually just about to leave right now. sorry for the delay. stuff happened and stuff. but ill be there in like five minutes probably. wait up for me

Liam sends a thumbs up emoji in response. He slides his phone into his pocket as his mom finishes putting her shoes on.

Dean's mom: All ready to go?

Dean: Mhm

They walk out the door and head to the car. Once they get in, Dean rests his chin in his hand, which sits on the armrest. He stares out the window and lets out a small sigh.

Dean (Inner): The one chance I get to actually see this girl, and it's never gonna happen. I hate everything. It would've been better if she just didn't do anything like this at all. Those people with powers are so lucky that they get to see this concert. I wish I had a power so that I could see it. That would literally be the best.

As they pull out of the driveway, Dean messages Liam that he's on his way. His mom then attempts to strike up a conversation.

Dean's mom: So Dean…

Dean: Yeah whaddup?

Dean's mom: Have you gotten yourself a girlfriend yet?

Dean jumps a little at the question before sinking into his seat and looking embarrassed. He stares out the window and responds quietly.

Dean: I mean… no. But what does that matter! I can do what I want!

Dean's mom: So what you're saying is that you want to be alone forever? Because that's what I'm hearing.

Dean: MOM THAT'S NOT WHAT I MEANT! I… it's just hard okay? Not my fault that every girl at my school is a total bitch.

Dean's mom: Dean!

Dean: Sorry sorry. But yeah like… what am I supposed to do dude?

Dean's mom: Yeah. I understand. Sorry for asking then.

She starts to smirk and chuckle before grabbing Dean's arm and shaking him.

Dean's mom: You better hurry up though. I don't wanna die without having grandkids alright.

Dean: Yeah well… you're gonna be waiting a while, mom. Maybe forever.

He curls into a little ball and looks genuinely upset at the conversation. His mom realizes her mistake.

Dean's mom: Hey… Dean I'm sorry. I was just trying to lighten the mood a little bit.

The car stops. They've arrived at the creek. Dean quickly unbuckles his seat belt and gets out.

Dean's mom: Have some fun okay? I love you, Dean.

Dean: Yeah… 'kay.

With a frown, she puts the car in reverse and begins heading to work. Dean shoves his hands in his hoodie pockets and starts walking, trying to find his friends.

The rays of sun poke through the leaves as Dean steps into the small forest that the creek resides in. Small chatter can be heard somewhat in the distance. Dean recognizes these voices as his friends and begins walking in the direction of the sound.

Dean (Inner): I really don't wanna be here. Why did I have to watch that video beforehand? I seriously couldn't have just waited a few hours? Now my whole day is ruined. I'm probably gonna be acting like a gloomy butt the whole time.

Dean can see his friends beyond the next couple of trees. He steps forwards and announces himself.

Dean: Hey guys. Sorry I'm late. But I'm here now.

Only three of his other friends were there. He expected about as much, but couldn't be sure exactly how many there would be, since he never did this kind of thing. The only people there, excluding him, were Liam, his friend Jack, and his other friend Carl.

Carl: Oh shit. Dean actually showed up? What's up dude? This is like the first time I've seen you out of school.

Liam: You actually kept your promise this time, Dean. Good job dude.

Jack was never a very talkative person. He just liked to be around people for company more than anything. He always had earbuds in and was listening to music.

Dean: Yeah I did. But yeah sorry I'm late. A ton of stuff happened and stuff. So like… what are we gonna do?

A few seconds passed before a response was given. Jack continued to stand and watch as he listened to music. Carl stared at Liam, assuming he would respond. Liam eventually did.

Liam: We're kinda just gonna be doing whatever. We always just walk down this creek until we reach that one convenience store about two miles down. Then we usually get snacks or whatever, before heading back or getting a parent to pick us up. Sound good?

Dean (Inner): Really? That's it? I'm wasting my free time down here so I can get my socks all gross just for a few chats and snacks? I should've just stayed home and moped. Could've watched tv or something. Whatever. Maybe this will cheer me up. Can't see how it would though. This just sounds boring.

Dean: Uhh… I dunno. Sounds kinda boring to be honest. But I guess I'll give it a chance.

Liam: Cool cool. Alright well let's go then.

As they began to walk, Dean stayed in the back of the group with his hands in his pockets. He stares down at the floor, continuing to think about Ashley's concert, and how he won't be able to go.

Dean (Inner): I know I'll be fine in the end. And that I should be glad I don't have a power. But I can't help how I feel. I've liked this girl for so long. I was perfectly content with never seeing her in person or anything, but now that the time where I could see her has come, it hurts that I can't. Whatever. The concert would probably suck anyways.

They all walk in silence for at least five minutes. It's awkward.

Dean (Inner): Is it always like this? Just walking in silence? No way. That's super boring. They wouldn't keep doing it if it was this boring. Wait…

Dean: Hey guys?

The three of them stop walking and look back. Jack actually pauses his music to hear what Dean has to say.

Dean: Is this always this boring? Cause nobody's saying anything and I can't imagine that you guys would do this all the time if it was like this.

Carl: Yeah it's never this boring.

Liam: Yeah I don't know why. I suppose we just don't have anything interesting to talk about this time. But I can think of a topic if that would make you feel better.

Dean: Is it…

Liam: Hm? Is it what?

Dean looks down, with a sad expression on his face.

Dean: Is it just 'cause I'm here? You guys just aren't used to me being here right? I'm killing the mood? 'Cause I can just go home if you want me to. No big deal.

Jack closes his eyes and nods.

Carl: Yeah we usually talk shit about you during these. So not much to really talk about.

Liam: Dude! Why would you say that!?

Carl: What? He asked a question. I gave him an answer. He'll be fine.

Liam and Carl argue for a little bit. Dean doesn't hear a word of it. He stares blankly at the ground as his breathing deepens.

Dean (Inner): So they just hate me. I knew it. They hate me. They hate me because I'm a terrible friend. Because I've only ever come to a few hangouts before. They hate me. Why do they keep inviting me then if they don't want me to go? Just so they can continue to talk shit about me behind my back? So they have something to talk about? Like "Oh guess who didn't show up again" "Lemme guess. That dumbass loser who never does anything with his life?" "How'd you know?". They just hate me don't they? They hate me. I want to go home. I need to get out of here. I wanna go home.

His leg bounces as he sweats. The tingling sensation in his chest from earlier returns. He puts his hand to his chest in an attempt to subdue it.

Liam: But yeah… sorry Dean. We won't do it anymore. And we can talk about something real if you want. Got any topic ideas?

Dean snaps out of his trance, the tingle in his chest vanishing as he looks up to his friends. The whole world returns back to normal.

Dean: Huh? I… n-no. Not really. I'm fine. Just… whatever you wanna talk about… I guess.

Carl: Well okay! So you guys hear about that girl that went missing?

They continue walking. Dean goes back to staring at the ground with a sad expression. Liam feels bad for him but doesn't say anything, assuming he just needs space right now. Dean responds to Carl's question in a quiet voice.

Dean: No. I didn't.

Carl: Yeah so like this girl totally just went missing. It's crazy.

Liam: Like kidnapped or something? Like what happened?

Carl: No no. Not kidnapped. She just ran away I guess? That's what I heard at least. She probably had like a power or something and didn't want her parents to find out. So she ran away to the bad part before anyone could find out. That's my theory at least. What do you guys think?

Liam: That's definitely possible. It would make sense for someone to run away for that reason. Sucks that she would have to do that though. Living in the bad part must be the absolute worst.

Jack: They deserve terrible lives. Those monsters deserve nothing less than suffering for the stuff they've done.

Liam: Well yeah obviously. I'm just saying that it still must suck.

Dean (Inner): Maybe that wouldn't be so bad. Maybe I wanna go there. Maybe I wanna see that concert. Maybe I'm determined. Maybe I want a power so I can go there. I'm gonna die if I don't go.

The tingling in his chest returns once again. He closes his eyes and lets out a sigh. Suddenly he feels a strong wind pass by, which almost throws him off his balance.

Dean (Inner): Jeez! Where'd this wind come from?

He begins to take another step forward as he opens his eyes. Instead of the green grass and dirt below him, he's greeted by the edge of a building, which he's about to step off of.

Dean: WHAT THE HELL!?

Thoughts race through his head in the mere milliseconds that he's there.

Dean (Inner): HOW DID I GET HERE!? WHERE AM I!? IS THIS REAL!? AM I GONNA DIE!? W-wait… this is… the world tower. WHAT!? HOW!?

He tries to stop himself from stepping off the tower, but his body is already committed to it. He loses his balance and falls off.

Dean (Inner): I'M GONNA DIE! I'M GONNA DIE! I NEED TO GET OUT OF HERE OR I'M GONNA DIE!

He begins to laugh as he realizes what he just said. How could he possibly get out of this situation? This is it. He's going to die. The tingle in his chest returns. Within the blink of an eye, he's back in the forest right behind his friends. The whole thing happened within two seconds. He hits the ground with a thud and screams. His friends look back to see what happened. Dean looks back up at them looking terrified and confused.

Liam: You okay!? What just happened!?

Dean takes a moment to catch his breath.

Dean: I… I don't know. I think…

The tingling in his chest is still there. He looks down to see what could possibly be causing it. Dean has a birthmark on his chest. It's a straight line across but forms a triangle around the center. A blue glow is shining out from the birthmark. Everybody stares at it for a few seconds before Dean snaps his head back up at them. He looks terrified. He's sweating, and his breathing quickens.

Dean: I… wait. What? I don't… no what. Why? Why? Why? No no no. I have… a power?