The great hall slowly emptied after the court session. The atmosphere still buzzed with the lingering shock of Ariv's overwhelming aura. Rudraen stood firm in the center, his expression calm yet unreadable. His voice broke the silence.
"Vaishnavi, Neel… you two will rest for now."
Vaishnavi looked surprised, a question flickering in her eyes, but before she could speak, Rudraen continued.
"Vaishnavi, you do not wield a Veil. But your role is greater than any power — you are the future head of the Soul Transferring Unit. A path few can walk. Rest, and prepare yourself."
Her lips parted slightly, but then she nodded silently, accepting the weight of his words.
Turning his gaze to Neel, Rudraen's tone softened.
"Neel, your energy control is impressive. You have surpassed expectations, but the 7th form remains beyond your reach. For now, maintain your current state. Pushing further without readiness can cost your life."
Neel lowered his head respectfully, gripping the edge of his cloak.
"Understood."
Then, Rudraen's eyes locked on Ariv and Rohit, his voice sharp, echoing like steel against stone.
"Ariv. Rohit. Your training begins now."
The two exchanged glances, a mix of determination and unease passing between them.
"Training?" Rohit asked, fists clenching slightly.
Rudraen stepped closer, his cloak flowing like liquid shadows.
"To survive in Aethrion, and to protect what matters to you, you must awaken every form your Veil holds. All seven. And for you…"
His gaze bore into Ariv, the weight of his stare like a crushing tide.
"…you will learn control. Or you will burn everything."
A cold shiver ran down Ariv's spine. He could still feel fragments of his shattered locket in his pocket — a fragile chain that once held his secret now gone forever.
"Follow me," Rudraen ordered.
The two boys followed him through the winding corridors of Aethrion, their footsteps echoing against polished marble floors until they reached a vast chamber. The ceiling soared into an endless dome, constellations glowing faintly above, and the floor shimmered with runes etched in silver light.
"This," Rudraen spoke, his tone carrying a deep sense of reverence, "is the Hall of Ascension. Here, Veils are tested, forms are unlocked, and limits are shattered."
Rohit inhaled sharply, his eyes widening as he stared at the luminous glyphs spiraling across the ground.
"So… this is where we become strong?"
Rudraen smirked faintly.
"This is where you survive your own power. Begin."
The air trembled as glowing arcs surged from the floor, forming a barrier that sealed the hall. The training had begun.