It wasn't much, but it was a start. It was enough to tell Riku that he still had every belief in his friends, be it for good or ill. Though Riku had found his way free of being his vessel, there was nothing saying that his friends would not make for at least decent potential vessels. Besides, with such belief in his friends that would be the best path to wounding Riku's heart. He'd let in the darkness once before. Surely it wouldn't be too difficult to force him back into that state.

"Try as hard as you're able. It won't make you the hero you long to be."