Akali wandered out of the dining hall, feeling strangely out of place despite having grown up running around these halls. She thought back to what Kennen had told her. Why would Shen be asking to see her? Did he somehow sense the conclusion she came to? She shook her head. No, he is strong, but he cannot read minds. There is no way he knew. Akali found herself knocking at Shen's door all too soon.
A smoky voice came from within the room. A voice she knew all too well.
"Come in Akali."
Heart heavy, Akali slowly opened the door and scanned the room. A small paneled window, a stack of ancient books, polished swords hanging on the wall—it was all just as she remembered. One thing was unfamiliar: avoiding her master's gaze. She caught herself doing just that.
The heavy voice spoke once again. "I'm glad you came so promptly; I was just about to head to the Grenadine Tower. Our talk; however, shouldn't be put off for much longer."
Akali stayed silent, eyes darting about. Usually she was thankful for Shen's ability to get to the point, but today she wished he had at least asked her how training was. She wanted to feel his respect one last time. For the calm before the storm to last a little while longer.
Shen crossed the room in three strides. He firmly placed a hand on Akali's shoulder,
"Look, I know you are struggling to get balanced. It started as a slight decline, but you've been tilting a lot this week. I think it would benefit you to get some private training with me."
Akali felt a pang in her chest at Shen's body language. He never touched anyone in such a comforting way. She could almost feel his worry. It got worse when she finally looked up at him, realizing even with his mask on that his gaze was intensely directed to her. She worked so hard to gain his trust, and to let herself trust him. Was she really ready for this conversation?
No fear. No more lies.
My concerns are justified. My feelings are justified.
She was ready to head down a new path, and no one, not even Shen, would able to stop her.
"No Shen, I-"
"This will be beneficial I'm sure. There's nothing to be embarrassed about Akali. Remember—I am your teacher, and you should never be ashamed to ask for help."
"Shen I don't…"
Akali paused awkwardly as her brain struggled to articulate what she wanted to say. The room felt to heavy. Shen's presence was just too much, like a boulder putting pressure on her chest. He gently squeezed her shoulder and looked at her thoughtfully. It was all just too much. Knowing what he did and knowing that she was the same.
The doubts came back. For a single moment she thought about keeping things as they were—keeping his trust. Keeping him.
But the thought of it. Of following in her mother's footsteps. Of becoming like Shen.
"I don't think I can be the Fist of Shadow anymore."