Yen Sid gives Sora and Riku their Mark of Mastery exam in Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance.
The exam is designed to prepare them for the expected return of Master Xehanort. Yen Sid sends the pair into worlds that remain trapped in sleep after being destroyed by the Heartless. Their task is to unlock seven keyholes and awaken those worlds.
The exam is not simply a duel or a test of combat skill. Sora and Riku must navigate the World of Sleep while using Dream Eaters, including helpful Spirits and hostile Nightmares. Their journey also teaches them the Power of Waking, a crucial ability for restoring hearts.
A common mix-up is confusing Yen Sid with the former Keyblade Masters connected to Sora and Riku’s earlier training. Master Eraqus trained Terra, Aqua, and Ventus, while Master Xehanort is the saga’s principal villain. At the end of the exam, Riku is recognized as a Keyblade Master, while Sora must continue developing his abilities.