When I arrived at Father Dom's office, Anthony was already there waiting for me. He smiled coyly and said "So you decided to take my advice, Suze. Smart choice."
In physics class I had debated over whether or not I would actually show up. I mean who did this guy think he was, showing up at my school, practically stalking me all day and telling me that if I wasn't careful some powerful shifter was going to hurt me. And what really ticked me off was that he was a complete stranger. Well, at least almost. I had met him that one time in my dreams, but things like that don't count. Do they?
"All right, so exactly what are we here for?" I asked curiously.
"Well, first there are some things that I need to tell you. I'm a shifter, Suze. Like you. I came to help teach you about your powers. There's so much that you are capable of. You just need to learn how, and that's where I come in."
I was completely floored by Anthony's confession. Up till now, I had believed that Paul and I were the only shifters in the entire world. And if what Anthony told me was true, he could teach me a lot more about how to use my powers. Needless to say, Paul had taught me a lot, but in the back of my mind I couldn't help but feel that there would always be some things he would never teach me. Either because he didn't know them himself, or because he was afraid that eventually I would become even stronger than him. Or maybe because, I could somehow find a way to protect Jesse from being exorcised and sent to the Shadowland.
As these thoughts occupied my mind, Anthony coughed nervously. I realized that I had been staring dumfounded at him for the past minute or so. Jeez, I think that I was really starting to impress this guy.
"God, I'm so sorry. It's just a lot to take in all at once." I replied. Could I be any more lame?
"It's okay, I understand, but like I said there is much to teach you, and I don't know how much time we'll have. So if it's all right with you, I would like to start our first lesson today."
"Sure, off course." I said. "I'm all ears."
By the end of the lesson, I was completely exhausted. Anthony said that we would start off with the basics, like moving things telepathically, but let me tell you that there was nothing basic about it.
"You just need to concentrate on the object that you wish to move. Close your eyes, visualize it, and then visualize it moving." Anthony instructed.
It seemed simple enough, but with all these worries and questions occupying my mind, I couldn't concentrate hard enough.
"I can't do it, Anthony." I exclaimed after my tenth failed attempt. "The whole concentration thing just isn't working for me today."
"Suze, you are perfectly capable of doing this. Look, I think I know what might help you clear your mind. Pick up the paperweight and hold it in your hand."
I obeyed. He continued. "Now, close your eyes and picture the most peaceful place you can imagine. Some place that's quiet and soothing."
I pictured the Carmel beach at sunset, when there were no pesky, rowdy teenagers there skipping classes.
"Now just focus on your breathing. Become aware of each breath you take. Let all other thoughts slip away."
After about five minutes, I became completely unaware of Anthony's presence, until he spoke up once again. "Now, try to move the paperweight again."
I now concentrated solely on the object occupying my hand and as I did I felt it rise out of my hand, float across the room and land softly on Father Dom's desk.
"Did you see that?" I asked Anthony.
"Yes, Suze. I have to say that I am very proud."
"So, what else is there to learn today?" I asked excitedly.
"That is enough for today. Besides, Father Dom will be needing his office back."
