Second Power

Suddenly, I feel something within me, as if my body decided to discretely switch a gear or as if a light switch was flipped on.

"Its hot in here isn't it?" says Alex. I watch as Alex pulls her sweater over her shoulders, to reveal a tight fitting tank top beneath, revealing her massive cleavage. She maintains eye contact throughout, a sparkle in her eye, knowing I'm watching.

The world comes to a halt. I look around, everyone in the cafeteria as still as a statute. "What now?" I wonder aloud, hoping Aphrodite has decided to pay me another visit so soon.

"Looks like you've stumbled across your second power, John" says a deep, booming voice. Apollo.

I turn to look at the shimmering god of light, "Second power?"

"Yes, it appears so. I do not know how many you have. But I can tell when I see it."

"You've been watching me?"

"Of course. Aphrodite and I are tasked to divert a small part of our attention to watching your progression. We can watch many things at once, and you are of some importance after all."

"I see. But what is my second power?"

"The exchange between you and Alex. You have the ability to influence thoughts. You may call it mind control, but nobody has that complete power. You can nudge people to do things, by implanting thoughts in their brain. But you cannot **** someone to do something he or she is completely opposed to, and the person will act with their own free will upon whatever thoughts you have given them."

Apollo's words leave me speechless for a good few seconds. "I can influence thoughts?" I ask, incredulously.

"Yes. You can inject thoughts but this does not mean you can control people like puppets - you cannot **** a person to fight in a battle, only cause him to consider that fighting would be honorable and right. Just like any inspirational general, but without having to give a speech. Moreover, some will refuse your attempts, and some will be immune. I've seen your power once before, that is why I know how it will work."

"That's still...quite something" I say, trying to comprehend the magnitude of such a power.

"It is," responds Apollo, "Use it wisely." And with that, the god of light is gone.