Elise’s POV
The air in the clearing was calm, barely disturbed by the breeze that rustled the leaves. I focused on the small stone in front of me, feeling the flow of energy beneath my skin, waiting for my command.
I moved my hand gently, and the stone lifted. A few inches at first, wobbly, uncertain. But as I centered my focus on it, I managed to steady it.
I exhaled slowly.
The problem wasn’t the gift. It wasn’t telekinesis itself.
The problem was my body.
Keeping myself standing drained too much energy. Every muscle in my legs tensed as if I were holding something far heavier than my own weight. And that sapped my concentration.
I tried something different.
I let myself drop onto the grass, bent my legs, and pressed my palms against the ground. The difference was immediate.
The
