The Secrets of the Elements

Practice Session

"Thank God he didn't see me," said Maya as she shut the car's door.

"But what was your brother doing here?" asked Ray as he wore the seat belt.

"I don't know, that girl with him was probably his girlfriend, though I've never seen her before," said Maya.

"I'll drop you guys home," said Tej as he took a left turn.

"Yes, let's meet tomorrow," said Maya.

                                                                                               ~~~~~

Advika sat on the ground with the book kept on her lap.

They had again gathered at the forest for what they called their practice sessions.

Zarna rested her head against one of the trees and leaned on it. Ray and Maya sat on the white rock, which happened to be everybody's favorite spot in the forest.

Tej stood in the center of the forest.

"Close your eyes," read Advika.

Tej closed his eyes and clenched his fists.

"Easy, Tej," she said and looked in the book.

"Now, feel the air around you," she continued. Tej stood still for a brief moment, feeling the air pass by him.

"Now, feel the energy, sense the heat around you, let your body be aware of it."

"Pay close attention to your heartbeat. Let your mind and body be aware of the blood that flows within your veins, and the energy associated with it."

"There flows an electric pulse in your veins. Feel it."

Zarna looked at her watch and then at the sky. Feels like it's going to thunder, she thought.

"Spread your arms and embrace the energy."

Tej spread his arms in the air, feeling the heat in the surrounding. Advika could see his face glow. He let out a sign and fell on his knees, opening his eyes.

"Tej," said Zarna and rushed towards him. Advika followed as Ray and Maya jumped from the rock.

"Ouch!" said Zarna as she removed her hand from his shoulder.

"You're hot," said Ray and winked.

"My Gosh! Tej, you're burning," said Maya and looked at Advika.

"Tej, calm down, guys, move aside," she said.

Everyone took a few steps back except Zarna.

"Zarna, no," said Advika as Zarna lifted her hands and kept it on Tej's shoulders. She pursed her lips, closing her eyes; a tear slid from her eyes.