“You are each aware, of course,” said Master Adampo, “the dangers when Jedi go rogue. Even Wayseekers have protocols to follow. The abilities we possess, the skills we have learned to wield—these cannot be used in the pursuit of selfish concerns. If they are not employed in the service of others, they are employed wrongly. That is why the Order exists, to ensure that our abilities do not corrupt us, but instead enrich the galaxy and the Force itself.”

Reath caught a fleeting expression on Orla’s face, one that suggested she didn’t agree with every element of that speech. He was relieved that she (uncharacteristically) decided not to share those thoughts with the Council. That was probably more for his benefit, and the others’, than for herself.

“However,” Master Adampo continued, “while your reasons may have been unofficial, they were not selfish. In fact, they were selfless in the extreme. Jareni and Vitus hoped to contain entities deeply connected to the dark side. And Padawan Silas knew he could gain more information on enemies of the Republic on the frontier. The risks you assumed were great. All of you nearly lost your lives. Yet you managed to take a valuable strategic resource away from enemies of the Republic. More than that, you saved Dez Rydan, whom we had all believed lost.”

Master Rosason added, more sternly, “Given that this is not common behavior for any of you, and the importance of the results you achieved—the Council votes against discipline at this time. But be aware: future rogue actions will be judged far more harshly.”

“In other words,” said Master Adampo, “don’t make a habit of it. We are adjourned.”

Reath’s shoulders sagged with relief. The other Jedi were less surprised than he was—maybe they had enough experience to tell how far they could push the Council. That was experience Reath had no intention of gaining. From then on, he was following every rule more faithfully than ever before.

As they all turned for the door, however, Master Adampo said, “Padawan Silas, if you could remain for a few moments?”

Oh, no. They’re going to punish me after all. Despite the sinking feeling in his gut, Reath turned back to the Council and stood tall before them. From the corner of his eye, he caught a sympathetic glance from Orla, but the others had been dismissed and had to leave. Reath was on his own.

Master Adampo said, “Padawan Silas, you have not yet answered us.”

“No, sir. Ah, what was the question again, sir?”

“We’re not discussing this hearing, but our previous conversation with you. Are you ready to begin training again?”

Reath remembered, as though recalling a dream, that the Council had put his future in his own hands. Where would he go? What path would he walk?

“It’s up to you, Silas,” said Master Adampo. “What comes next?”

Chapter Twenty-Six