~Trailing Behind ~

[Valerie]

The days pass by but neither mom nor Elias mention or even utter a word about the Challenge. I try to not let that affect me but somehow it does and even more so because dad is still kind of pissed at me and I know because unlike other times he didn't try to pacify me.

“Concentrate.” Elias’ voice snapped me out of my thoughts. I glance over to see him frown back at me.

The Challenge is two weeks away and I am still staggeringly behind. While I can now control Element a little and not make a total fool out of myself, my peers have progressed immensely.

I let out a sigh and begin anew. The classes have been hectic along with other studies and training. Mom seems to be avoiding me while Elias seems to be only focusing on developing my skill.

~~~~

I was woken up yet again and this time because I felt restless. I rolled over on my back and started in the dark. The night was humid so I had kept the window open. When after several minutes I couldn't fall