Training began the next day.
Kael didn't expect to be thrown into it so quickly—but the sanctuary wasted no time.
"Control your output," the instructor said. "Minimal ignition."
Kael focused.
The flame flickered in his palm—then surged too high.
"Too much," the instructor snapped.
"I'm not doing it on purpose."
"Then you're already losing."
A scoff came from nearby.
Kael turned.
Another trainee stood watching—arms crossed, expression sharp.
Unlike the others, his flame didn't flicker.
It burned clean. Controlled.
"New one," he said. "You're sloppy."
Kael narrowed his eyes. "And you're loud."
The boy smirked. "Name's Riven."
Kael didn't respond.
Riven's gaze dropped to the faint glow beneath Kael's skin.
"…You're not normal," he said.
Kael gave a dry laugh. "You just figured that out?"
Riven's smirk faded.
"No," he said. "I mean you're dangerous."
End of Chapter 14