The platform dimmed.
Resetting.
Kael stood slowly.
His body steadier now—
But his expression is more serious.
"…So that's the problem."
Riven nodded slightly.
"…You can reach control."
"…You just can't hold it."
Silence.
Kael clenched his hand slightly.
"…Then I'll hold it longer."
The other figure shook their head.
"…That's not how it works."
Kael glanced at them.
"…Then how?"
A pause.
Then—
"…You break first."
The words hit harder than expected.
Kael's eyes narrowed.
"…Explain."
Riven stepped forward.
"…Control isn't about holding power."
"…It's about surviving it."
Silence.
Then—
"…Tomorrow—"
Riven's voice was calm.
"…You fight someone."
Kael's expression didn't change.
"…Good."
A faint pause.
Then—
"…Don't expect to win."
The platform went dark.
The watchers above remained silent.
Waiting.
Observing.
And for the first time—
Kael understood it clearly.
This wasn't training.
It was a selection.