[swavek]

most indoor places aren't big enough to allow you to summon an elemental. now if you're outdoors and tyring to summon an elemental either via the "canned elemental" potion or the spell you need to select a spot for the elemental to appear at that's right next to the party. when you actually cast the spell (or use the potion) the blue spinning staff will appear. you want that staff to be right against (or very close to) your part.