The next morning, the recruits were called early.
No breakfast. No talking. Just weapons and silence.
Seren stood in the courtyard, hands behind her back, eyes colder than usual.
"Today's exercise," she said, "is trust."
Kael still hadn't returned.
And Riven stood further from Lira than before, like the night had never happened.
They were told to pair up and blindfold each other. One would guide. One would obey. Across an obstacle course laced with pitfalls and hidden watchers.
A test of faith.
A trap for liars.
Lira's heart beat sharp. She waited—hoping Riven would choose her.
But Riven turned to another.
So did everyone else.
No one came to Lira.
She was left standing alone in the middle.
Seren smiled slightly.
"Very well," she said. "Lira, you will guide me."
Shock coiled in her stomach. She didn't move.
Seren handed her a blindfold. "Lead me, weapon."
Lira obeyed.
She tied it gently, not out of kindness—but calculation. She needed to know what Seren looked like vulnerable.
Even if it was a lie.
They moved through the course. Lira whispered instructions. Seren followed perfectly. Too perfectly.
Halfway through, Seren spoke:
"You're wondering why they didn't choose you."
Lira didn't answer.
"They don't fear you. Not enough. Not yet."
Then Seren stopped walking.
"There's still too much human in you."
She pulled off the blindfold herself, eyes locked on Lira.
"And that will break you long before we do."
Lira smiled faintly.
But her hands were fists.
Because the human in her?
Was learning how to burn.