Cyren boldly steps onto the stage, challenging Mr. Linton and the elite program's selection process. Mr. Linton taunts Cyren, doubting his ability to wield his Talent, which fails during the test, leaving Cyren vulnerable. As the crowd demands Cyren be removed, it’s revealed that Ryker—not Cyren—has earned the single spot in the elite program. Despite the rejection and the public embarrassment, Mr. Linton reveals Ryker as the academy’s only chosen candidate, leaving Cyren’s fate uncertain and the tension unresolved on stage.