"This was normal. Even after surgery, the body needed time to adjust," Wu Heng said, reaching out to help the two men from the growth pods. "All the more so when your entire bodies have been replaced. Your souls and flesh need time to synchronize. You'll return to normal within twenty-four hours. Now try standing."
Dean gripped the edge of the pod and tried to exert himself.
His movements were clumsy at first, like a baby learning to walk. His legs trembled constantly, but after a few minutes, muscle memory began to return, and he unsteadily straightened to his feet.
"I feel... a lot lighter." He looked down at his hands, clenching and unclenching his fists. "That power embedded in my bones is gone, but deep in my soul... it feels like something is still burning."
Sam rose as well and tested his body with a few movements. He was steadier than Dean.
Then he closed his eyes and sensed himself for several seconds. "The demonic mark that was interfering with me is still in my soul, but it's weakened. The demon bloodline... there are remnants of that too, but they've been suppressed deeply."
"So I'm still me, and my bloodline is still that of the Winchester Family." Dean grinned, the exact same grin he had always worn. "It's just that the hardware has been swapped out for a new set."
He took a few steps to get used to his balance, then suddenly threw a punch. Halfway through the motion, he lost his balance and nearly fell to the floor.
"You need time." Wu Heng steadied him. "I suggest you don't attempt any strenuous activity today. Go to the lounge first. Bobby Singer is waiting for you."
"Bobby knows about this?" Sam asked.
"The entire plan was known only