Power Befalls Pain(Part 2)
Chapter-12
"Haha, nice one, boss. That John guy is so good-natured that he would never know who we actually are even if it hit him in the face." said Bart after listening to the encounter between David and John.
"Yeah, I know. I laughed for 5 minutes straight. But we need to proceed with caution from here on out. Do not attack anyone who knows the Lewis family. Even if they only know the name, don't attack. John's powers are frightening; It may ruin our whole operation and I am not going to let a teenager with powers destroy a business built in over a 100 years."
"You can count on me, boss. I am there for any help."
"Thanks, Bart. Appreciate it. Now, for your next assignment...."
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"Wakey wakey, John."
"Oh hey, dad." greeted John. Then, he looked at the time. "Holy shit, only 3 minutes left. I can't reach on time even if I run with full speed. Gotta run, bye."
"Hey, won't you change?" asked Harry.
"Don't worry. I'll do it while running." said John bulleting out of the door.
"Ok... I guess. And I am sorry for the delay. We all overslept." but John was already miles away.
John supersped to the exam hall, changing his clothes and taking his breakfast in that time. He finally reached the hall, just a few seconds late.
He finished his exams, giving another brilliant test. This time, however, he passed.
John was over the moon with the news. "What? How?! How did I pass? I gave the same exam as always. What was different?"
"Nothing, John. It's just that someone finally recognized your abilities and you have been rewarded for your hard work. Congratulations, son." said Rosie, sounding calm but being as delighted as John.
"I can see you both are over-joyed but remember, we still need to get through the admission procedures." said Harry, a sound of concern in his voice.
"Oh, Harry. Let's celebrate this moment. You worry too much. We can go through admission tomorrow." said Rosie, hugging onto her son.
"Yeah, you're right, hon." said Harry, still wondering why John was selected this time specifically.
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"David sir, why did you allow your friend to enter your University? He's 25 years old now and poor. " asked an admin.
"Because if he's engaged in his university activities, he will have less time to come after people. Remember, he still has his powers. If we slip up once more, with nothing to do, he'll get us."
"Good thinking" replied the admin. "But won't he recognize you?"
"Don't make me laugh. I wear a white mask. He won't recognize us."
"If you say so, sir."
"Now, let's make the admission as tough as possible. Tell him that he needs to....."
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"What!?! $75 million per year?! At this rate, we'll run out of money in one session. How can we afford it, Rosie?"
"I don't know. This is ridiculous. Even if St. Pizofalt is the best university, it is too much even for a upper middle class family. I don't think we can send him to university."
"Well, we can't but John has been working too hard and he'll get depressed. I think maybe he needs to make the money." said Harry.
"Is it gonna be safe? Money is a dangerous thing. I am not so sure about it." said Rosie, a look of uncertainty on her face.
"The other choice is him being depressed. Don't worry, I believe in John."
"Ok, Harry."
While they were having a conversation, a very interesting event was occurring in John's room.
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"Hello, John. We meet once again."
"Wait, aren't you the one who came when I mastered my powers?"
"Yes, I bring another message. Listen closely.
'There is someone you know who is pulling the strings in the country. Stay aware. Use your powers wisely. Life is gonna get harder now. But believe in yourself. You can do this.'
PS: Don't forget to revive art."
Then, the illusion left.
John was confused. He understood the art part and string part. But he knew life was gonna het harder.
"That part was pointless" he thought.
But what he did pay attention to was the person controlling the country. He ruled out David and his parents right away but other than them, there weren't many names. He wondered for some time. Bart? His teachers? Who could it be?
Suddenly, his father entered.
"Hey John, we need to talk about the admission." said Harry.
After talking it over, John agreed. He was sad to leave his parents for a hostel but was excited for his new adventure. However, that didn't last long. He was back to thinking about the message.
Poor John still had no clue about David.
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Chapter-13
Between the 14 day gap of exams and university , John saved so many lives that it was beyond counting. And it was very simple too. Just detect and create a psychic barrier and your life is secure. David was getting pretty annoyed. But if his plan was to succeed, he needed to keep his patience.
Just like that, the first day of University arrived. John had to leave. Rosie and Harry could not believe that their son had grown so old. John's childhood seemed like yesterday.
"Goodbye, John. Remember, the money is only for admission and session fees." reminded Harry for the umpteenth time.
"I will, dad. Just chill. Oh, I almost forgot. Here, have this, you guys." said John, handing over the digital phone.
"This? Won't you need this? It may come in handy." said Rosie.
"I'll buy one if needed. Plus, if you have this phone, I can see you guys time to time even from the hostel." assured John.
"Ok, then. You stay well and stay safe."
"Goodbye, revered parents."
After John left, Harry and Rosie burst out laughing.
"He just called us revered? Haha, he is so excited." said Harry.
"I think you were right. It was correct to allow him to make the money." said Rosie.
But at the end of the day, none of them could know what John was turning out to be.
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John supersped to St. Pizofalt and sang along the way.
"I enter the room, I'm glowin'
No strings holdin', mans gone clear (ooh)
I'm comin' to own like romans
This my moment, zero fear."
John then remembered that he was supposed to buy a digital phone. He took a detour but when he reached the shop, he was in a pinch. There were so many things to buy. How could he only buy just a phone? Console, search engines, everything was there. And he can also produce money. He couldn't hold himself. So, he bought everything he liked from the store.
That was his first mistake in his path to destruction.
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Chapter-14
John entered the campus and was transported to another world. It was the first time he would stay in a digitalized building. Excitement and tension levels both were at an all-time high. He reached the robot hostel counter and got an entrance message.
'Go to Hostel 4, Room 7. You'll find everything you need right there.'
John followed the command. And the message was right. He had everything he needed and more. It was the first time he found permanent luxury. Well, at least for the next four years.
The first thing John did after entering the room was take a nice hot shower; Even more comfort.
John came out of the bath, fully dressed. At that moment, he saw his room mate.
"Hello, my name is John. Nice to meet you."
"Hello, I am Bar.. Barry. Nice to meet you too."
"I feel like I know you from before."
"You're probably mistaken. Thid is the first time I have seen you."
John thought about using his powers but went against it. He thought he should trust his new friend and not abuse his powers.
"Hope we have a good time together." said John, cheerfully.
"Oh, we will. Or at least, I will." Bart whispered under his breath.
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Barry and John had lots of fun together. They roamed around the campus, visited other hostels and also played games on the console. And finally, John showed Barry his powers(Not that it mattered). But the powers did come in handy when the upper classmen tried to rag him.
As the day came to an end, John sang 'The Moment' for the 12th time.
"Will you stop it, John? At first, it was nice and all but now it's just annoying."
"Sorry, Barry. It's just that I am so pumped for university."
"Yeah, I can see that. But remember to always keep your patience."
"Haha. I will try to." said John, although not believing himself.
"John, mind if I ask some personal questions? We really don't know much about each other."
"Sure."
After Barry and John learned more about each other and their family(The most boring hour of Barry's life), he moved onto the next step of his plan.
"So, why don't you get out of poverty? You have the power to. And frankly, no one else can do what you do."
John told him what his parents said about money and how he shouldn't obtain it illegally.
"John, don't make me laugh. Is there any law that allows you to have power?" asked Barry.
"Well, no. But..."
But Barry wasn't done. "Did you get these digital stuff legally? Even if you did, did you tell your parents?"
"No. But.."
"John, stop being a momma's boy and get on your own two feet. You are now a full grown adult. Make full use of your powers. It will be much better for you now and for your future."
"I will discuss it with my parents." said John, not confident at all.
"Don't. They will not support the idea. Go fot it yourself. Parents aren't always right you know." Barry continued, trying to convince John.
"But they haven't pushed me the wrong way ever."
"Well, they say there's a first time for everything."
"I am not sure still, Barry."
"Think it over. I believe my suggestion will help you a lot."
John tossed and turned the whole night, thinking about Barry's proposition. It wasn't bad, he thought but was it right? But then, he thought about how much he could have if he used his powers to the max. He could have everything he ever wanted and more and more.
The morning came and he made a decision.
"Barry, I think your proposition is excellent. I'll go along with it."
"I knew you were a smart kid. If you need any help, just come to me."
"Thanks, Barry." said John, glad to have another friend like David.
"Well, John. See you later. I have a meeting with the principal."
Barry left and went to meet with David.
"Boss, Phase one complete."
"Very well done." replied David.
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Classes were going to start from the next day and John was more juiced up than ever. Adrenaline was rushing through his veins faster than the speed of light. To add to that, he was now rich which allowed him to have multiple friends at the same time. He thought how Barry really did change his life and it had only been a week since they knew each other.
Just like that, the night passed and the class most . Although John had many powers, controlling sleep wasn't one.
"I guess I don't have the most important power of all." John grinned.
As the day went on, John understood university wasn't all he thought it would be. The classes were mostly boring and all the stuff taught were already known to him. The day ended in dissapointment and dissatisfaction.
After they returned to the dorm, Barry and John had a chat of the boring day they spent. To cure their boredom, they played some video games but it didn't really make anyone's mood better.
"Let's just stop." said John. "I am gonna go talk with my parents. Later."
"Later, John."
John went inside his room and called his parents.
"Hey there, guys."
"John, how have you been? It's been so long. Why haven't you contacted us or received our calls?" said Harry and Rosie in synchronization.
"Well... I was too excited to remember things at first and then, I became too busy." said John, lying through his teeth.
"Oh, that's what happened. Don't scare us. We were worried." said Rosie.
"No need to worry guys. I can handle myself." assured John.
"Yeah. True. You do have powers. Speaking of those, are you using them properly?" asked Harry.
"Of course. Although I do have to admit I did spend a bit more than you guys told me to."
John's parents became worried. "How much extra did you spend?"
"For me, I used to buy some exotic foods here and there and I bought a console for me and Barry." said John, leaving out 80% of the details.
"Be more saving. Remember money is a dangerous thing." said Harry, sounding very serious.
"On to less contentious matters, who's this Barry?" asked Rosie.
"Oh, he's my new friend and roommate. We already are very good friends. We do everything together. He's basically my David of University." said a cheerful John.
"Can we meet him?"
"Sure, let me see if he's here."
John came out to see Barry not in the hall. That's weird he thought. He was there a minute ago.
"Well, he's not here. Maybe later."
"Ok. That's all for now. Take care, son." said Rosie.
"Bye." said John and clicked off.
"Should I really have lied?" John said to himself.
________
Chapter-15
A year of university had passed. John was rich, had many friends, was top of the class, saved many lives but he wasn't happy like before. He felt like something was missing in his life. 'But what was it?' John wondered.
John was sitting on his virtual bed, playing games when suddenly, there was a knock on the door. John was surprised as he wasn't expecting anyone. Barry was out on a trip(Or so he said) and wasn't going to return until tomorrow afternoob. When he opened the door, he could not believe it. It was a human John knew. In fact, he knew the person very well. To say John was astonished would be an understatement.
"U-uncle, is that really you?"
"Yes, John. It is your uncle, Nourar. I have been wanting to meet you for the longest time. Finally, I have."
"B-But I thought you were dead." said John, still not believing what he was seeing.
"Let's just say my death was greatly exaggerated. I have been trapped in a stasis tank for as long as I remember. Funny thing is: I knew what was going on outside. Considering the nature of a stasis tank, it's not possible. But there I was. And I now know why. Care to have lunch with me? I'll explain everything."
"Sure, I guess."
So, John locked the door and went out with his uncle. He insisted on just summoning the food but Nourar went against it.
"It's been a while. I want to have some traditional food. It's my treat." said Nourar.
Over lunch, Nourar discussed everything with John. From how Ross made him a genius to how he ruined his life to how he got trapped in the tank and faked his death.
"So, with the last of my strength, I used the interface to tell Ross to put my artificial body double at the bottom of the stairs of your house along with the note that I had died of depression."
John had listened to the story very attentively. His first thought was, 'Even the world's greatest writer couldn't have written this. He had a plethora of questions in his mind. He started his session.
"Wouldn't my parents understand your body was a fake?"
"No, it had the same characteristics as a normal human body. It was a copy I created.
"Next question, my parents knew Mr.Ross. So why didn't you tell him to see them directly?"
"Because Ross wasn't too happy about the situation either. I knew he wouldn't want to come close to anyone that knew me because he wasn't interested in answering questions and just wanted to drown his sorrow alone. Thankfully, it was just your parents who knew me."
"Ok" said John. "But why were you in the underground of the digital power plant in the first place? I understand Mr.Ross wanted to sketch the place but why did you go inside? Wasn't that pointless?"
Nourar hesitated to reply. If he replied truthfully, there could be war. But if he lied and John eventually found out, he will lose the respect of the only person he has remaining before his actual death.
"Well, you see. Curiosity got the better of us. There was a certain someone we knew who basically had an illegal and pretty horrifying enterprise under him. His base was the underground. Now, it has shifted obviously. Anyways, we wanted to see what exactly happened in the underground but we underestimated the security. The robotic guards detected me and put me in the stasis tank. Thanfully, Ross got out alive."
"Now, uncle. You mentioned you made a copy and know everything that happened during the time you were trapped. How?"
"I knew this question would come. Well, I have powers too. Not on your level but I have some. These are my two strongest powers. I can freeze time, freeze people, create psychic barriers etc but I don't have the ability to make money, shoot fireballs, summon lightining bolts, turn to comets and more. I just have 25% of your mystic powers. I did turn the cap slightly. Remember?"
"That gives you powers?! So, we both have powers? Cool, I guess. Thanks to that, you are still alive. I am really happy you know. I always dreamt of meeting you but as I thought you were dead, I knew I couldn't. Thank you, Uncle."
"Same here, John. But to me, I knew I could meet you one day. John, can I say something? There is someone who is like you but not like you. You know him very well. In fact, you're quite attached to him. His father was the one who ran the business. Stay aware of him. Something bad may happen."
"Who are you talking about? And why do you see the future? That's wrong."
"I have my reasons. Can't tell those. I want to die on my own terms."
"Ok, Uncle. I get it." said John, understanding Nourar's issue.
"Well, it's my time to leave."
"Wait, stay a bit longer. I want to talk more."
"I can't John. I was exposed to nuclear radiation in the tank. Thanks to my powers, I prevented it from reaching anyone else and was alive for so long. But I have used up all my strength. I want to leave this place. I have met you. I don't have anything else to live for. Goodbye, John. Let me just say one thing. Make good use of the powers you were bestowed."
"Uncle, noooooo!"
Nourar died.
"Uncle, why? I wanted this day to continue forever. And you leave like that?!"
John wasn't taking it well. After all, emotion control can never be a power bestowed.
He mentioned the encounter with his parents. They were blown away to say the least. But they believed their son. They tried to support him. But John's depression continued for a few days. In that time, he always kept in touch with his parents and Barry but it wasn't helping. He just couldn't believe his uncle just came to see him and left the world so suddenly. But after a week, he snapped out of it thanks to Harry.
"John, we never expected to see Nourar. We thought he was dead. Be happy it happened. Don't be sad because he's gone. You're a lucky person. Cherish the moment forever. And make the best use of your abilites. That's what Nourar would have wanted."
This touched John right in the heart. He picked his tempo up again and this time, he formulated a plan to revive art.
"Time to let our priceless treasure back to the world." John said to himself before he started his painting.
Barry wasn't open to the idea though.
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Bart needed to convey the news to his boss.
"Sir, John is finally going ahead with his plan to make that useless art thing real again."
"Let him. It will be beneficial."
"But but, I thought you were against the idea even when you were..." Bart hesitated to continue.
"When I was a pure and innocent child, Yes. I was. I still am against reviving it. But there's many advatanges for us in this. It seems he uses up most of his powers in this venture. That will be the best time for us to strike and take the business back. I am not gonna forgive him. He is single-handedly ruining the business my grandfather found."
"How did you know his plan?" asked John, a perplexed look on his face. "I didn't mention it."
"I think it's time to show my true self too." said David before revealing his secret to Bart.
"Oh My God" was all Bart had to say.
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Chapter-16
John's final exams of the session had come to an end. To everyone's surprise, he came top. After all, how can someone who doesn't do classes come top? Well, with an invisible microchip hidden in various classes, anyone can. The only thing left to do was pick the microchips at the end of the session, implant it in your brains and becoming first is now as easy as pie. Unfortunately, it is only the privilege of John Lewis.
The first day of the mid-term session came. And John actually went to the classroom. Not for doing the classes. But to make art a real thing again. When the teacher came, John greeted his teacher. He was more than baffled.
"John, you are actually doing classes? I mean you are smart but you never do classes."
"Well, sir. I did do some classes. Maybe twice a week. Anyways, the reason I am here is to make my favourite thing in the world real again."
"And what is that, John?" asked Mr. Bryce before taking a sip of water.
"Art" John replied.
Bryce spit the water from his mouth and burst out laughing.
"Hahahaha! Revive art? Are you crazy? What's the point of that old useless thing anyway?" asked Bryce, still giggling.
"That, my good sir, is why I am here today. To show you the point of that old useless thing." John declared, not giving an inch.
"Ok. Do that. As if it's going to work."
"Oh, it will." John said under his breath.
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Mr.Brcye started his beginning-of-term speech with, "Welcome to the new term, class. The last year was filled with entertaining and excellent classes."
Everyone's thought at this time, "Is this guy for real? Nothing was fun about the past session."
"This year we will have even better classes and learn new things." Bryce continued.
"Yeah, sure." John thought.
"With the cognitive minds of this class, we are going to reach new heights. I end my speech by saying 'Good luck to you all'.
No one even clapped. They knew that this was useless. St. Pizofalt may have the highest rating but it was a disgrace to universities.
At that moment, someone raised his hand.
"Yes, Rowan?" Bryce asked.
"Sir, your speech was very motivational. I am sure now you can certainly reach new heights. I believe you won't be 5 feet anymore. I am willing to bet all my money on you increasing half an inch."
This did receive a standing ovation and was greeted with laughter.
"Get out, Rowan." Bryce said, furious with his student.
"But why sir?" asked Rowan. "I am the only one who praised your speech."
The laughter continued.
"Because I am the teacher here. So, do as I say."
Rowan walked out but with no look of regret on his face. It was just an expression people loathed Bryce.
"Sir, can I take the class today, please?" requested John.
"Sure." replied Bryce without hesitation.
Every student in the class was puzzled. Bryce never paid heed to any student's words. Why did he give in so easily?
"So, guys. Hello. As you all know me, I am John. And today I am giving an art lesson."
Everyone started to pack their bags and head for the door. Except for Bryce who was busy making a mockery out of John's words.
"Guys, wait. Allow me 10 minutes of your time and then decide whether you want to leave."
One guy fired his shot, "What's the use of this 10 minutes? We aren't going to learn anything."
"That's where you are mistaken, my good man. Trust me, it will be the best 10 minutes of your life."
In any normal place, the place would have become vacant in seconds. But in St.Pizofalt the opposite happened. It is more desirable to watch something practically extinct rather than roaming around the garbage dump as the students liked to call the campus. So, they took their seats once more.
John continued his lecture with Bryce the only one giving concentration.
"Here, I have a picture of Thomas Jaegar. The main protagonist of the show 'Assault on Giant', the only animation still left in this world. The hardcore fans will know this is her Giant form which is the only giant with intelligence and kindness.
Everyone was astounded. They saw many graphic designed projects on it but John's art was just a stellar piece of work. Was this the power of art?
"I can see all of you are stunned but allow me to continue. You see, none of us present here except me have bothered with art. But art is nothing short of spectacular. I want everyone to try art in your free time. Not all of you will like it, I guarantee. But out of the 30 present here, at least 10 of you will love it and at least 5 of you will become masters of art. That is my prediction. But now, let me show you what my real purpose here is."
The months of hard work John had put in was finally going to pay off. Art will finally take its first steps towards revival. John tried heart and soul and finally it happened. The art became a reality.
For the first time in the history of mankind, a giant was seen.
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The whole class erupted. Even Bryce was bewildered. The news of the incident spread like wildfire. And by the afternoon, everyone knew John Lewis had made a giant appear from a painting. Somehow, he even managed to tame it.
When John and the giant went back to their hostel(John put a shrink button on the giant beforehand), the mystic creature popped out suddenly again.
"Very well done, John. Art has finally taken its first step towards revival. And its all thanks to you. But you still aren't using your powers in the right way. Change John, change."
The creature left. However, she did know John wasn't doing anything bad with the money. She was just afraid of what may happen.
"What is she on about? If I didn't use my powers properly, how did I take the step towards reviving art? She's just crazy. That's all. Right, Thomas?"
But all Thomas could say or more like, shout was "Raaaaaaaaah".
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"Sir, is it really gonna help us?"
"Without question" assured David. "Bart, just observe him 24/7. I can't do it always. Update me with anything you may find useful."
"You can count on me, boss."
"Good. Now, let's go to the 'Digital Fortress'.
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Chapter-17
"Ayo, John. You have become a celebrity, my friend. Every news channel wants a piece of you." said Barry, trying to be cheerful.
"I don't want publicity. I want people to recognize us blacks. But I don't want to become a hot-shot celebrity just for my powers. From a human perspective, my only wish is the black community to be respected. Nothing else." said John in a serious than usual manner
Barry managed to hide his irritation. Instead he just replied with, "Well, at least they are getting a little more respect after your demonstration. Don't fret, John. Racism cannot continue forever." said Barry, although he was racist himself. In fact, you have killed two birds with one stone. Art is on the path of revival and racism is on its path to end. Congrats."
John became a bit more cheerful. And returned to his casual self.
"I need to rest. I am feeling tired." said John, almost falling asleep while standing.
"You feel tired?" John questioned although he perfectly knew the cause. He continued, "I guess there's a first time for everything. Go get some shut-eye then."
Barry went and informed David that he was right all along.
"Now let's just go with the flow. The outside world is helping us."
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Chapter-18
John didn't like the publicity. He preffered to be with people that actually cared about him for who he was. But if he wanted to complete the resurrection of art, he would do anything, no matter the cost. So, he went to every news agency, instituition and every single human that called him so that he could show his art and what he could make from that.
By the end of the year, John made 4 more giants, aeroplanes, mermaids and everything that people demanded of him. Now, there were artists left and right. Art exhibitions were held periodically. Art was also now a subject that was professionally taught in every single educational institution. The revival of art was now complete. But for John, it came at a high price. Not on the basis of cash. He had trillions and trillions. To be precise, $44 trillion. 80% of it in cash. He didn't need any more.
But the process of resurrection used up almost 60% of his powers. He was no longer the invincible being he once was.
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It was a bright Saturday. John looked forward to a day of doing nothing. He just wanted to rest. His body was quite weak. John tried healing himself but it was out of the question. That is, if he wanted to survive. A doctor treated him digitally on a regular basis. According to him, it was going to take at least 2 weeks to recover. He said John should be thankful that he has his 30% health still left. Or else he would be almost near death. Although his remaining powers did play a part in his survival.
John slept through the whole morning and
did not wake up until 1pm. Even when he woke up, his body was fragile. He felt helpless. Even Barry wasn't there(He was with David on the name of being in his village). The only ones who accompanied him were the giants.
He called his parents. He needed someone that could understand his situation.
"Hey there, mom and dad."
"Hello, John. How are you doing? You are not feeling too bad, are you?"
"I have been better. It is taking quite a toll on my body. I can't even move properly."
"That bad? We are coming to you." said Rosie.
"Don't." said John. "I don't want to see you guys in this state. I can't run or hug or do anything. Plus, I don't even have control over my powers now. Who knows what can happen? I don't want you guys to be hurt in any way."
"B-but John."
"No buts, dad. I love you both. And I cannot let you guys get hurt. Stay put where you are. You still have the barrier I created. Only I am capable of breaking it. So, stay there so I cannot do that. I'll be fine, don't worry."
"Ok. We Won't come." Harry assured. "But is everything going according to the doctor? Is there any operation or surgery you need?"
"Guys, you are over-complicating it way too much. I don't even have a single scratch. I am just weak. An operation is just taking 100 steps too far."
"Ok" said both of them, not sounding convinced. "Do you need any money for anything?"
"Money is not needed. I have a lot. I can live my whole life with what I have."
Harry and Rosie both were alerted of the fact. But they restrained themselves, instead they just said, "Well, ok then. Get well, son. And try to control the most important power you have."
Although John didn't get it, he replied, "I will."
"Goodbye. Take care."
Harry and Rosie were now concerned about John's diversion to the wrong path. He was still a good person. But with money, the alternative may become a reality.
John was too tired. He tried to go back to sleep but his thoughts were filled with his parents' words and dissatisfaction with Barry. He couldn't make head or tail of anything. He was a full-grown adult. Why would he need to constantly be advised by his parents? Why was Barry not helping him these days? Is he a good friend?
"I'll find the answers eventually. Right everyone?"
The giants collectively replied, "Raaaaaaaah."
John laughed. He finally fell asleep. But it didn't take long to wake up. There was a blast at the campus. It shook the whole area. He needed to see this. But he wasn't able to move.
"Thomas, take me there. You guys come too." John commanded.
As he reached the next hostel, David came up to his ex-best friend. John was speechless when he saw what he saw before his eyes. David came flying up with 8 tentacles attached to his back. He just greeted his friend with,
"Hello, John."
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"What the hell is the meaning of this, David?" John said between breaths.
"Oh, nothing. It's my reply to you."
"I am visibly confused."
"Let me explain. I am the owner of a business established over 3 generations. We, blacks, have never been given any benefits the whites have. My great-grandfather was the worst victim. He took his own life. My grandfather vowed to avenge him and established the greatest criminal organization. His wrath for the whites was endless. The whites killed his father. He opened a small shop as a front for his activities. But not many people joined him. At the end of the year, there were only 3 people. However, at the later part of his life, he got a bottle that gave him powers."
"Wait, what?" asked John, stunned.
"Yes. This power allowed him to control others' minds. And he employed 22 black people. The operation became full-scale. Then, my father closed it down and moved it to an underground powerplant. As it was hidden, more racism victims came in. But with the sudden boom in digitalization, the digital fortress was built."
"Your family are absolute demons." said John, losing his strength each second.
"No, John. We are realists. But anyways, my father made the business what it is today. He made full use of his powers that my grandpa bestowed upon him. He used a tank to trap and kill rebels in the powerplant.
John then realized who was responsible for Nourar's death. He was ready for battle but what he couldn't fathom was why he was getting a family lecture from David.
Speaking of that, David continued, "Then, of course, in the fortress, there were no more rebels. Even you got confused by the fortress. I took over when I finished school and got the same lecture I am giving you. I made even better use of my powers. I made the company international and now have over a thousand employees. Everything in this country is under my power. In fact, 75% of the world's Nations are maintained by me. Now, not only blacks but also poverty-stricken people are here. Everyone with basically the same depressing origin or story. We Groth's ameliorated their life. They are thankful to us."
John couldn't believe what he heard. "David, why? Why are you doing this? This is wrong. You were such a nice kid. You helped everyone so much. What made you turn out like this?"
"John, my friend. We all are innocent as a child. But when we grow up, we understand what reality is. No matter how much the world improves technology-wise, the poor and black people don't have any room to go. I vow to let everyone have an equal shot at everything." explained David while he ravaged the rest of the campus using his psychic abilites.
"How is this giving an equal shot?" John screamed(Not that he could).
"Because now black, poor, rich and white people are in relatively equal amount. So, incompetents and competents will now see their true worth."
"David, it is correct that blacks are bereft of equal chances and justice. We do not get even a tenth of their advantages. But that doesn't give anyone a right to hurt someone."
"Poor John, you see the reailty but still ignore it."
"No, I don't ignore it. "The pessimist complains about the wind. The optimist expects it to change. The leader adjusts the sails."
"Nice words but aren't I a leader?" asked David, still destroying everything around him.
"No, you are nothing. You don't have any leadership qualities. At least I revived art. My path to end racism hasn't even began. But I will do it one day."
"What do you mean I ain't a leader? I saved so many racist victims from depression. Or everyone had to follow your uncle Nourar's path."
"No. Then, my uncle wouldn't have died. Your father killed him."
David didn't believe John.
"Lies." he told
"No, it's the truth. But come to the point? What's the meaning of this lecture?"
"This isn't much. I thought you should know some stuff before you die."
"And why should I die?"
"Because with the health you're in, you are in no condition to fight me."
"Try me. I will fight and defeat you." said John, not even in a state to stand.
David laughed and stated, "We'll see."
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Chapter-19
The battle started very badly for John. He was almost annihilated. John was breathing so heavily that it was beyond explanation. He coughed up lots of blood too.
"Haha" David gave an evil laugh. "Feel my wrath, John. You have caused more damage to the business in the last 2 years than for the 100 years it was established. Your barriers will now become forgotten history. Die!"
Now, it was John's turn to laugh. David was puzzled.
"W-why are you laughing when you're at the verge of death?"
"Because, my old friend, you still haven't gotten rid of your old habit of only doing half the reasearch."
"What do you mean?"
"You knew my power would be at an all-time low if I wanted to revive art. You attacked me at my weakest. This blood is proof of my tired self. Very well done. But see who are returning from their evacuation program."
David noticed the 5 giants coming. But he still couldn't make heads or tails of John's words.
"And what will the giants do?"
"David, if you even saw just one episode of 'Assault on Giant', you would have known. Giants devour humans. And although I have a strong bond with them, I told them when a dire situation come, they shouldn't hesitate to devour me."
"Oh, you want to die on your own terms. Be my guest."
"Just see what happens. Come on, Thomas, eat all the giants."
"Raah" Thomas let out a faint cry. It didn't want to eat his friends but there was no other option."
John and David fought during the time Thomas was feeding on his friends. John almost died in that time. David was just about to drop John from the 20th floor using his tentacles but Thomas came in clutch.
"Raaaaah." said Thomas and kicked David. But John was still falling. Thomas jumped, caught its master and turned its back to the ground. As he fell halfway, with a heavy heart, Thomas devoured its master.
"Bye, Thomas. I'll miss you." John said while weeping before being devoured.
"Wasn't that pointless?" David asked himself after recovering from the impact and making his face proportionate again.
But David wasn't prepared for what would happen next.
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Chapter-20
John underwent a fearsome transformation. It was as if he was burning inside. His whole body ached. But after 30 seconds of enduring torture, he was reborn into his strongest form.
John mimicked his ex-best friend, "Hello, David."
It was David's turn to be stunned. He couldn't believe that his friend actually fused with a giant.
"The real battle starts now. Fight me at my strongest."
"You're still dead meat." stated an angry David.
John could have but didn't use his giant power. This time, he couldn't fall back on any other giant to save him. Instead, he used a spinner to fight his opponent.
"Go now, Phantom Unicorn."
"A cool toy. I'll crush it into pieces."
But David should have known that a small chili is hotter than a large one. It was a pain in the ass to dodge the spinner. It didn't help that a beast was inside there and it was controlled by a human giant.
The Black Unicorn was wreaking havoc. It used the steel cover wheel to completely cut off one of David's tentacle. David was also losing his energy in his failed attempts to hit the running horse. The spinner attacked David from all sorts of places. David started panting.
"Time to destroy you, David. Go now, Phantom Unicorn. Final Smash mode."
The spinner turned its cover wheel 180° and went into an attacking position. The beast was outisde too.
"Special move: Shining Destructor Sword."
A bright light was shining on the unicorn's forehead. It turned into a sword and sliced right through David. His tentacles were gone.
"Noooo! What have you done?! You removed my greatest strength!" shrieked David
"Uh, wasn't it obvious that my aim was that all along?"
David lost a lot of his powers. But he still wasn't done. He couldn't give up. Not if he wanted to save his business.
"I am not done yet."
David may have lost his powers, he still had energy remaining. He invested all of it in his body. David became engulfed in flames.
"Woah, seems like you still have powers left." said John, taking his spinner back.
"Oh, I do. This will destroy you."
"We'll see about that."
John finally started to use his giant powers. He needed to finish this duel quickly. But he still didn't intend to kill David. Legal action will be taken there.
John kicked David with his 3 metre leg. It would have killed any normal person but the fire resisted the force. David striked back with two fire punches. John's giant body was burnt. John countered with continuous punches with his 6kg hands but he was still suffering from the burn. But David wasn't doing so well either. The attacks hit him hard. Both of them were at their limits.
"Even when we are enemies, we are the best rivals for everything. I must admit I quite enjoyed this battle. But it's time to end this."
"Yeah. Get wrecked, John."
All the engulfed flames in David turned blue and he was surrounded with lightning bolts. He shot the largest fireball in the history of mankind and to add to the problem, it had electricity running through it. If he didn't do something, John was going to lose his life.
To keep himself alive, John produced a miracle. He closed his eyes and focused all the energy on his fingers. He created the strongest force in the universe.
When he opened his eyes, a water shuriken formed. It was surrounded with fireballs, leaf storms, comets and electric balls. He threw it towards David with all of his might in a desperate attempt at survival.
He defeated David but it did not come without consequences.
The shuriken was a tad bit too powerful. Even John didn't realize he had this much strength. It killed David and even though David was now a devil to him, the friendship side didn't go completely. John was crying. But he didn't know that he was no more in the present. The shuriken shifted the time paradox and the reality as a whole.
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Chapter-21
"Hey, it's John. It is so nice to finally meet you."
John was pretty confused. No one was supposed to be in the campus, which was almost a garbage dump at this time. He looked around to see who was the one. But was even more astonished. He wasn't in the campus at all.
"John, what are you doing in the middle of this sports arena? And at this time? It's not even open."
"Sorry if I sound rude but where am I?"
"What do you mean by that? You come here everyday to play football." said the stranger.
John was now even more puzzled. He never played football and certainly not in a field. Where can he find it?
The stranger was getting irritated by John's 'act of confusion'.
"John, don't play games. You are already a wanted man by everyone. Don't do stupid things now."
"Wanted? For what?" asked John, still trying to gather his thoughts.
"You know that. People are afraid of your powers. And you killed 2 criminals by mistake. The people don't understand. You should not be out here. Go hide. Stay somewhere you'll be safe."
"I am very confused. I was in my campus. How did I get here?"
"Stop this act, John." said the stranger. "You at least know who I am? You do remember your friend, Barry?"
John knew who Barry was perfectly. John used his senses to check whether he was correct this time. The genes matched.
"Oh yeah, I know you, you liar. Go and die." said a now angry John. He was already pissed at Bart for lying and now at his attempt in tricking him.
"What the hell, John? Nooo!"
John registered his 2nd death in his life. This time he didn't mind. But shortly afterwards, he was arrested.
"Mr. John, you have been arrested on the account of murder, illegal use of money, illegal running of a business and illegally capturing the world's nations." said the police, placing handcuffs on John.
"What? No! Let me explain!" John was shouting, trying to explain.
But it was no use.
--------
The interrogation was pretty pointless. John was not able to answer most of the questions put forward to him. Naturally, the ones he did answer were lies in the police's eyes. But how can a person who was in a destroyed campus know anything about the present?
"As you are not willing to co-operate,
you'll stay in prison until the severity of punishment has been decided."
He was forced into a cramped cell. John was still perplexed about the situation.
"John, you are here?! Why is the richest person in the country here?"
"Richest? No, I have huge money in cash not assets."
"Stop being an actor," said his prison mate. "Your net worth is $87 trillion and are in control of literally 75% of the world. What the hell do you mean?"
John was still in the dark but he did find some hints. The $87 trillion sum comes from the total sum of money he and David has. The captured areas were the same percentage as David's. Did he get everything David had? He thought about the business David ran. Was it the illegal business?
"Oh, so you know. Well, I did some wrong stuff." John replied.
"That I know, you dumbass. I am asking what wrong Did you do?"
"I killed some people and illegally ran a business."
"Well, I am a robber. Nice to meet you."
"Back at you."
John was now confused for another reason. In his time, he heard that prisoners were tough and rude. This guy was not like that.
He whispered to himself, "Well, maybe he is."
And he was. The one in hundred case of a well-mannered prisoner.
Chapter-23
Present Day:
A few days passed. John's court trial started and it was over in an instant. The verdict was life imprisonment for John.
John wasn't taking it well. He passed some days in the prison and his head was already aching. He wasn't allowed to use his powers and the condition inside a prison was nothing short of disgraceful.
Everyone but his mate was rude, the food was old and stale, and nothing was clean. It was a terrible condition to live in. He couldn't.
Then, John realized. This happened due to the shuriken he released. In reality, he actually couldn't master his abilities. This was the reason for his downfall. He did perform a lot of good deeds but now, he was in ruins. Ultimately, power befalls pain.
He then made an unexpected decision that would change history. Or was it, the future?
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*
Chapter-24
Before performing his action, John did one more thing. His objective with this power was to make the world a better place. Now, it wasn't. He froze time and wrote in the constitution of every country that art should always be properly respected no matter what happens and there should be absolutely zero racism. Then, he moved into the first stage of his plan.
John never wanted to use this ability. Time travel and changing events may disrupt the course of reality but it was disrupted anyway. John could still use only time travel to prevent all bad things that were caused by his powers and also reach his goal.
John went back to his own time. It took a while to explain everything to his parents. But after hours of discussion, they finally agreed. Even in their old age, John and Rosie still didn't lose a single ounce of their wisdom.
John carried out his plan. He returned to the time where he got his first taste of depression and prevented it from happening by talking it out with his young self. He was quite glad to see that his *actions in the past were working like a charm. Everyone and everything now had importance. But altering the reality also provided another benefit. Poverty based issues were now also gone. Most of the people were now a good human being.
John wanted to visit his parents once more but considering the reality shift, they will not understand who he really is. In fact, they may even be dead.
Then, when the time of his powers came(which was later than the original timeline), he took the bottle from the younger John.
With all of his might, he completely vaporized the "Indestructible Bottle". It disappeared, never coming back to the earth anymore.
John was tired. This took more energy than his original art revival process. He needed to rest and this time, he didn't plan on getting interrupted. Moreover, the world should move according to God's will. There should be no one with powers.
He didn't want to intentionally, or unintentionally, however it was, take himself and the world into chaos and dowwnfall once more.
John took his leave from the world, believing his life was a successful meaningful one.
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