The creature struck the shelf, and the beam moved against Eli’s palm.
“One,” Kellan said. “Release.”
Eli let go.
The beam fell at the damaged joint. It struck the shelf and drove it across the rear opening. The creature recoiled as plaster and wood collapsed between it and the passage. The temporary support bent; Kellan pulled the rope, drawing its base away from the stair.
Dust exploded into the service room. Eli lost sight of the first step. Someone shouted his name from above, but the voice was muffled by the roar of falling material.
“Here,” he called.
Kellan’s hand caught his shoulder. “Stair is left. Follow the rope.”
They moved together, one hand on the line. Eli’s legs felt heavy, as if the beam’s weight had moved into them when the talent released. The dust made him cough. He kept one arm across his face and counted the steps by touch.
