Global Resurgence

The day of The Global Resurgence had finally arrived, an auspicious occasion long awaited.

I woke up to the warm glow of reflected sun rays on my face. Despite stretching groggily, my eyes were slightly foggy, yet my mind was crystal clear, filled with excitement and nervous anticipation.

At first glance, it seemed like any ordinary day. But look closer, and even the smallest creatures sensed the difference. Ants scurried with renewed purpose, blades of grass stood taller, and the air vibrated with expectation.

This was a day revered by all, regardless of station or affinity. Locals, mundanes, itinerant mages, aristocrats, and nobles – every soul across the globe shared a unified conviction: The Global Resurgence marked a fresh cycle of prosperity and promise.

I glanced at the wall clock beside me; it was just past six.

Mentally calculating, I had nearly two hours before the Initiation. Plenty of time. I rose from bed and stepped outside, expecting a tranquil morning.

Instead, I found everyone already awake and engaged in lively conversations.

I joined the gathering, exchanging warm greetings.

Once the pleasantries were done, they offered well-wishes for my Initiation, their tone casual, almost dismissive. "Easy-peasy," they seemed to think.

But little did they know, my nervousness and anticipation had reached a fever pitch.

Their well-intentioned yet decidedly unoriginal advice was forthcoming: relax, breathe in, breathe out – the age-old mantra touted as a panacea for frayed nerves.

I couldn't help but internally scoff at the trite suggestion, wondering if it truly offered any tangible solace or merely served as a shallow placation.

Undeterred, I humored them, deliberately inhaling and exhaling with a measured calm, and conjuring a reassuring smile that belied my inner turmoil.

The gesture proved remarkably effective, dissolving their latent worries and concerns like morning mist beneath a warm sun.

This was a familiar, meticulously crafted charade, one I'd mastered over time through sheer force of will: concealing vulnerabilities, masking the tender bruises of my psyche, and projecting an aura of unyielding resilience.

My deep-seated desire for ordinariness drove this intricate facade – to be perceived as one of the mundanes, whose lives were woven from the humble tapestry of everyday struggles, rather than some fragile, sheltered princess.

I saw that as an obvious weakness, and I loathed it badly; I still do.

Just a day before, Aunty Gloria had addressed me regarding it, but it was a simple case of philosophy becoming psychology - an instinctual habit that was hard to rid of. As the saying goes, old habits die hard.

However, despite this, there was one person who knew me to my bones, who understood that there was much more to my smile than I actually let show.

She gently dragged me back into my chambers, revealing her youthful and ever-vibrant side.

As I took in her energy, my inner turmoil was temporarily displaced.

Next, we headed into the bathroom. Notably, I had grown so accustomed to having her bathe me that I couldn't recall when I last took one myself.

Despite being a princess, I've consistently declined my father's suggestions to assign personal maids to attend to me.

The idea has never held appeal. Growing up, I often preferred solitude, indulging in self-reflection, with Amaeree as my constant companion.

Amaeree's presence was a staple in my life, especially during moments of vulnerability.

Speaking of which, I joined her in the bath, a ritual born from my struggles with low self-esteem.

In the past, I was volatile, easily agitated, and self-critical, often struggling to perform tasks adequately.

Yet, with Amaeree's support, I acquired essential life skills, becoming efficient and self-sufficient.

However, bathing remained an exception; I'd grown accustomed to her assistance.

Soon, she helped me dress, and we sat down to eat, engaging in lively conversation as we shared a meal.

Time flew, and before we knew it, the clock struck 8:02 – only six minutes remained until the Initiation.

Without further delay, Aunty Gloria drew a intricate runic circle on the floor, converging the Spirit energy gathering arrays into its center.

The air was already thick with Spirit energy, amplified by the Global Resurgence.

Aunty Gloria's expertise directed the accumulated energy into a focal point, creating an overwhelming concentration.

Gazing at the circle from the outside, I was struck by its luxury and density.

The Spirit energy, normally ethereal, had taken on a tangible form, resembling clear, white milk.

Stepping into the circle, I felt an unparalleled clarity and soulful relaxation, as if my burdens had vanished.

This moment was special – my loved ones surrounded me, witnessing my first major step towards mastering magic.

Time ticked on, and the 7th minute arrived. The countdown to the pivotal 8th minute began, seconds ticking away.

I closed my eyes, seeking the distinct connection with the World's Will.

If I had failed to establish this bond, my core would remain dormant, forever sealing my fate as a mundane.

That prospect was unacceptable. I aspired to more than mere proficiency in zither or cooking; I yearned for magical prowess.

I longed to become a renowned mage, respected for my extraordinary abilities and meaningful contributions, not merely a privileged princess.

Countless nights, I had dreamed of battling vicious beasts, standing imposingly on their carcass, vanquishing evil forces, and protecting the innocent.

Now, with the opportunity to realise my aspirations, my body trembled with anticipation.

As I established the coveted connection, my excitement intensified. It was an intangible, ethereal bond linking me to the world.

Words failed to capture its essence, but I sensed an endless reservoir of spirit energy within reach. This energy felt distinct, elevated – a grade above the ordinary.

Scholars have extensively studied this subject, severally hypothesis and assumptions also, but for now, I'll focus on my experience.

Despite being unable to access my Spirit Sea, the connection resonated deep within me.

Gradually, I felt an inward pull, gently stirring the spirit energy like a gentle breeze drawing from the world's vast reserves. The sensation intensified, building in power and urgency.

Just as I was about to harness the energy, a sudden explosion rocked the mansion.