Lucas did not waste time after the demonstration. He moved to the center of the training ground and looked at the twelve cultivators one after another, his gaze steady and serious, carrying none of the excitement they were still feeling.
"This power will consume you if you treat it like a blessing," he said calmly. "So you will learn it properly, or you will not use it at all."
Bartho inclined his head. "We are ready."
Lucas nodded once. "Good. Pair up."
There was a brief hesitation before they moved, each cultivator choosing an opponent with care. Jennifer stepped back slightly, already assessing everyone with a healer's eyes. Lucas gestured toward her.
"You observe for now," he said. "Your role will matter later."
She bowed lightly. "Understood."
When the pairs were set, Lucas raised his hand again. "Activate the gauntlets, but limit the draw. If I feel any of you losing control, I will shut it down myself."
A chorus of affirmations answered him.
