The Rule that would Spark the Flame

Everyday one person gets to make a 24 hour rule that the whole world must follow. Today is your day.

The crimson-colored envelope was delivered to my house exactly seven days ago. At first glance, it seemed like any other ordinary envelope but when I touched it inside the mailbox, there was no doubt that it was alive. It's gentle heart beat pulsated through my fingers as I held it.

I knew exactly what it was, as would any other recipient. Everyday, we are subject to a smothering rule that we must abide or else we face an instant death. The rules that come about are as fickle as the creatures making them. They can be beautiful and fulfilling; they can be ugly and heinous; and often times, trivial and pointless. Either way, the impact can be profound.

Certain days stand out more than others, like when Johannes from Sweden decided that everyone must kill a stranger. A large chunk of the population was wiped out within 24 hours and most of the murders were committed with heavy hearts and flowing tears. Requests of opposing nature are seen as well, like the time that Frederick from London wanted the whole world to sit in silence for an hour to honor all those who have died before us. There was an overwhelming feeling that took place that day, and the unified silence traveled across the globe.

To think that I would get the opportunity during my lifetime is hardly believable, given the odds. I have had a week to decide what I want to do but like most members of the world, the thought has crossed my mind thousands of times.What if... What if it comes to me? We have all dreamed about it but only a few will ever get the chance. So now, with my wife and kids beside me, and the world awaiting anxiously, it was my turn to instantly impact the lives of billions of people.

"Is it time? Are we going to go through with it?", my wife nervously asked. The 24 hour rule has been so harsh to her in the past.

I sat there expressionless holding the return envelope that was sent inside the original request. It radiated, its deep blue color emitting a soft light as it lie on our French mahogany desk. My fingers gripped the pen tightly causing the ends of them to turn white. My hand started to tremble.

"What's wrong, baby? Why are you so scared?", my wife asked. "Why hesitate? You know exactly what needs to be done!"

I composed myself and let my hand write freely.

Tomorrow, December 31st, every person must revolt, with the utmost violence and passion for change, against their government. This rule applies to every human being on earth, except for those within the Western Capital. Do your best!

As the general of the greatest country on earth, and a man that holds the power of the Imperial Guard, it is my duty to start the world-wide revolution. From there, we will go on the offensive and take advantage of our unique situation. Should everything go accordingly, the Emperor will reign over the entire Earth, and the Western Capital will be the only capital that matters. This is our moment.

Author's Note

This is another writing prompt I did. I am new to taking writing seriously, and I want to hone in on my creativity to make up for lost time. To do that, I have indulged in plenty of these exercises to help speed up the process. If you read it, I appreciate it a ton. All feedback is welcomed to the highest extent!