Chapter 232:

CLAIRE's POV

Now, I want you to focus on feeling the life force of objects," Alan explained, leading me to a chair in the center of the greenhouse. "To do this, you must meditate."

I looked at him, confused. "Meditate?"

He nodded. "Yes, Claire. You must clear your mind of all distractions and focus on the essence of the object in front of you. Only then will you be able to feel its life force."

I sat down obediently, closing my eyes as he instructed me to do. I took a deep breath and tried to empty my mind of all thoughts.

At first, it was difficult. My mind kept wandering to the competition and my fears of failing. But as I focused on my breathing, I began to feel a strange sense of peace. And then, slowly, I started to sense the objects around me.

I could feel the life force of the plants, the energy pulsing through their stems and leaves. I could sense the soil beneath me, teeming with tiny organisms. And then, I felt something else - a faint, almost imperceptible energy emanating