Sitting up again, Sage had an overwhelming sensation, no, this was deeper than the vague excitement he had felt before. It was not just a fleeting thrill of something new; it was something substantial, almost tangible.
A sense of strength flowed through him like a steady river, not wild or chaotic, but solid and reassuring. This strength settled in every part of him, his limbs, his chest, even his breath.
His muscles felt taut, his bones sturdier, and his mind clearer, as if the world had been recalibrated to reveal sharper details. He tightened his fist, a simple motion that surprised him with its intensity.
There was power there. It wasn't the raw force of a seasoned Warrior or the overwhelming might of an experienced mage, but it was definitely more than what he had yesterday.
A laugh bubbled up before he could stop it. "Now this," Sage said, looking at his fist with genuine satisfaction, "this is real strength."
