Control The Uncontrollable // The Acolyte

90. The Audience

"You sure this is a good idea?" Master Gios asked as you marched toward the auditorium.

You raised an eyebrow. The way he phrased the question felt like a trap, and you weren't about to let yourself get caught in it. Taking a measured breath, you held your hands together before speaking.

"I am never certain of anything," you admitted, choosing your words carefully. "But it's what the Force is telling me."

The two of you stopped in front of the door. A smile tugged at your lips as you turned toward the Grand Master.

"And I'm certain a Jedi should always listen to the Force."

Master Gios studied you for a long moment, his gaze sharp, searching. Something had changed. You radiated not only confidence but clarity. He could try to convince himself he didn't have knowledge of why—but deep down, he had a strong suspicion. Unlike many Jedi, however, Master Gios chose not to judge you for what happened behind closed doors. His only concern was your ability to keep this concealed from Elzar.

After all, both men had made a pact to not pursue you while stationed at the temple, at risk of it clouding anyones mind. Now, Gios knew you could hide it, but he wasn't so certain Qimir could, or even wanted. And that could cause unwanted conflict.

"You know the Council will blame you if she dies," he warned, his tone even.

Your expression didn't waver. "They'll always find a way to blame me, soon they'll blame me for her being alive" you countered, your voice sharp, cutting through the space between you.

Gios exhaled, feeling the weight of your words. He knew you had long forgiven him for his past judgments, but the same could not be said for the Council. Their treatment of you still sat heavy on your shoulders, and it was evident in your tone. Though he understood your resentment, he could not justify your lingering emotions toward them. Jedi were not meant to let emotions fester.

Still, he said nothing, only offering a small, knowing smile before tilting his head toward the door in silent inquiry. 

You nodded once. He opened the door for you, stepping aside as you entered first.

Traditionally, the highest-ranking Jedi entered first—which would have been Gios. In the past, he might have corrected someone for breaking such a simple procedure. But he had softened around you. A part of him wondered why.

Your gaze swept across the room. Though Gios stood a few paces behind, he could sense your discomfort. He gave an obligatory nod to the other Jedi in attendance just as you abruptly turned back to him, stepping closer than protocol allowed.

You masked your emotions well—but your thoughts betrayed you.

Do not cause a scene, Gios warned,  his voice brushing against your mind. A reminder that he knew every little thought occupying your mind. 

You stepped back, taken back by hearing his mind occupying your space. You were so used to no one knowing what was going on inside your mind, with your ability to shield yourself, that you tended to forget Master Gios ability to branch through your shield.  You quickly composed yourself.