He lost count after the tenth attempt.
Maybe the twentieth.
The result didn't change.
Kael stepped back slightly.
Breathing controlled—
But heavier now.
"…This is pointless."
"…No."
Riven's voice cut in immediately.
"…This is necessary."
A figure landed nearby.
Not the same as before.
Younger.
But sharp.
Their eyes flicked to Kael.
"…That's him?"
Riven didn't look away.
"…Yes."
The new arrival crossed their arms.
"…Doesn't look like much."
Kael smirked faintly.
"…You talk too much."
The figure's eyes sharpened.
"…Say that again."
"…You talk too—"
Riven stepped forward slightly.
The tension broke instantly.
"…Enough."
Silence.
The figure clicked their tongue.
"…Whatever."
They turned slightly—
Looking at Kael again.
"…He's unstable."
"…All of us were."
Riven's response was immediate.
A pause followed.
Then the figure exhaled slowly.
"…Not like that."
Kael caught that.
"…Meaning?"
The figure looked at him directly.
"…Meaning most of us survive long enough to stabilize."
"…You?"
A brief pause.
"…You might not."