The validation spires of House Demos pierced the perpetual dusk, their crystalline arrays still pulsing weakly with ancient protocols. Captain Selena stood in the Calculation Chamber, watching the first wave of potential pioneers tackle their initial trials. These weren't tests of technical prowess or system knowledge - they were demonstrations of loyalty, of willingness to embrace a new way of thinking. "Watch how they interact," Selena said, her validator's eyes tracking the flow ...