Writing Prompt - No Mana

​We, as a human race are completely irresponsible. We have been for the last five years after Doctor McConnell discovered every human was born with a magical power but with no mana to use it. When he first released the Mana Drink that powered our magical batteries, it was for military purposes only. But since then, everyone developed their own version. It’s hard to know what is safe to drink anymore.
My husband and I were prepared for our son’s “Power Out” party where he would take his first sip of Mana Drink to show off his power. We’ve been saving for this moment for years now. Henry, my husband, ensured we bought the more expensive bootlegged flavored Mana Drink so he felt comfortable that everyone would be safe. He made the decision just a few weeks ago to send an invitation to his boss. This party could make or break his career. So, I being the good wife, spend hours on Pinterest ensuring I found the most creative way to serve our guests the fizzy drink.
The big day arrived and I was busy setting up the party. I’ve spent the last few days cooking food and Mana snacks for our invited guests. My son, Alex was a bit nervous. I could tell when he was helping me set up the rented tables and chairs.
“No, Alex, I want the tables set up in straight rows,” I called from the snack table as I was setting out the grape flavored Mana cupcakes. “Where is your head today, my love?”
“Sorry Mom,” he replied. “What if my power is lame? My friend Trever just had his Power Out party last week. Now no one will talk to him at school. I don’t want that to happen to me.”
“Don’t be silly,” I reassured him. “There is no way you are going to have a useless power. You come from two people with strong useful powers. I can only imagine you have great things a head of you.”
“He can create bubbles from his hands,” he spoke over top of my speech. “Freaking, bubbles.”
“And what powers does his parents have?”
“His mom can make plants grow and his father can read and retain a book quickly,” he said.
“And what powers do your parents have?”
He rolled his eyes before responding. “You can make thing invisible while dad can throw a magical force field where ever he wants. I guess you’re right. Do you think I will have the magical gift?”
I turned back to arranging the table in front of me. Everyone wanted the magical gift of flight. It was the rarest power as of right now with only three humans with the gift. They are all rich and famous, preforming for audiences showing off their power. “If anyone could possess that power, I’m sure it’s you,” I said smiling.
The party was set up just minutes before our guests started to arrive. I worked hard mingling with everyone who showed up at the party to ensure everyone was having a great time. The Mana cupcakes, Mana brownies, and Mana soaked fruit were a big hit. Grandpa Melvin ate a cupcake so he could shoot fireworks up in the air from his fingertips. That kept the small children quiet and entertained. The party seemed to be a going well except for the macaroni salad.
“Attention,” Henry interrupted everyone’s conversation. “I want to thank everyone for making it out to Alex’s Power Out party. We are excited to learn what the future holds for our intelligent and talented son. We will not make you wait any longer. Alex, can you join me and your mother down here please?” The silence was deafening as he walked towards us. His father handed him his first can of cherry Mana Bull, a combination of Mana Drink mixed with an energy drink.
“Thanks Dad,” Alex said quietly, popping the top. He fidgeted slightly because all eyes were on him. This was the moment that would make his future. He held up the can as if to toast then swallowed a big gulp.
We waited for several minutes for something to happen. But nothing did. Suddenly Alex shouted in celebration. “What is it son?” my husband questioned. “Are you feeling your feet lifting up? Do you have the gift?”
“No father,” Alex answered in excitement. “I- froze- time.”
“What?” someone called out from the crowd. “I don’t believe it. No one has that power.”
“Oh yeah,” Alex replied proudly. “While you were all frozen, I drew smiley faces with a sharpie on everyone’s hand. Don’t believe me, then check your hand.”
A murmur fell over the crowd as they showed off their hands and clapped. I’ve never been so proud in my entire life. “I’m going to be popular in school,” he whispered in my ear as he gave me a hug. “Thanks for your words of encouragement, Mom.”
A big black helicopter interrupted our celebration as men in army green colored clothes began to descend onto our party. They held the guests at gun point to my terror. “What is this?” Henry demanded with his hands up. Alex had been shuttled away from us.
“Mister and Misses Meyer,” he addressed us. “My name is Leroy Smith, Sergeant Major of the US army. We are here for your son.”