Silent Reckonings [Yord Fandar x OC]

Chapter 3

The dimly lit library of the Jedi Temple was a sanctuary of silence and wisdom. Shelves filled with ancient holocrons and datapads lined the walls, each containing fragments of the vast knowledge accumulated over millennia. Elara sat at one of the long tables, absorbed in a text about Jedi philosophy. The day's rigorous training was behind her, and the library offered a much-needed respite.

"Mind if I join you?" Yord's deep voice interrupted her thoughts.

Elara looked up, a smile breaking across her face. "Of course, Master Yord."

He took a seat across from her, placing a datapad on the table. "I see you're reading about the teachings of Master Odan-Urr. He's one of my favorites."

Elara nodded, her fingers tracing the lines of text. "His insights into the Force are profound. I find them... calming."

Yord leaned back, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Calmness is a valuable trait for a Jedi. It's something we must all strive for, especially in turbulent times."

They continued to discuss the ancient Jedi teachings, their conversation flowing effortlessly. Elara was surprised by how easy it was to talk to Yord. He shared stories from his past missions, his voice carrying the weight of experience and the warmth of someone who had seen much but remained optimistic.

"What about you, Elara? Any favorite missions or experiences?" Yord asked, his eyes meeting hers.

Elara hesitated, then smiled shyly. "There was this one mission on Alderaan. It wasn't anything grand, just helping a small village resolve a dispute. But I felt... useful. Like I was truly making a difference."

Yord nodded appreciatively. "Sometimes, the smallest missions can be the most impactful. It's the little things that matter."

As their conversation deepened, Elara found herself increasingly drawn to Yord. His wisdom, his kindness, and the way he listened intently to her every word. She couldn't help but notice the way his eyes crinkled when he smiled, or the soft tone of his voice when he spoke about something he was passionate about. Her gaze lingered on his face, taking in the strong jawline and the light stubble that gave him an air of rugged handsomeness.

Suddenly, Yord cleared his throat, catching her staring. He didn't react outwardly, but a slight flush crept up his neck. "So, Elara, do you have a favorite book or text here in the library?" he asked, shifting the conversation.

Elara's cheeks burned with embarrassment, but she managed to smile. "I do, actually. 'The Chronicles of the Old Republic.' It's filled with stories of heroism and sacrifice. I find it inspiring."

Yord smiled back, his eyes twinkling with understanding. "A classic. It's one of my favorites too. The stories remind us of what we're capable of, and why we do what we do."

The conversation continued, each exchange bringing them closer. They shared laughs over tales of old Jedi masters and discussed the intricacies of lightsaber forms. The more they talked, the more Elara felt a connection growing between them, something deeper than mere camaraderie.

As the evening wore on, the library grew quieter, the shadows lengthening across the floor. Elara realized that she was not just learning from Yord's wisdom, but also beginning to admire him on a more personal level. His presence was reassuring, and his gentle demeanor contrasted sharply with the sternness of her own master, Norin.

By the time they finally parted ways, Elara couldn't shake the feeling that something significant had shifted between them. She returned to her quarters with a heart full of conflicting emotions.

•••

The training arena was eerily silent under the dim lights, the shadows stretching long across the floor. It was well past bedtime for the padawans, and the Temple was mostly quiet. Yord Fandar, returning from a late meeting, noticed a faint humming noise coming from the training area. Curiosity piqued, he approached the source of the sound.

As he peered into the training room, he saw Elara, blindfolded and dueling alone against a practice droid. Her movements were fluid, but there was an edge of desperation to them, as if she were pushing herself beyond her limits. The mask over her eyes was a testament to her determination to master the Force and enhance her dueling skills.

Yord watched her for a few moments, admiring her dedication. However, he couldn't ignore the weariness in her stance and the small, nearly imperceptible missteps she made. Stepping forward, he called out softly, "Elara, it's late. You should be resting."

Elara froze mid-movement, her lightsaber deactivating. She lifted the blindfold and blinked at Yord, surprise evident on her face. "Master Yord, I didn't expect anyone to be here."

Yord approached her, his expression gentle but firm. "Training is important, but so is rest. Pushing yourself too hard can be counterproductive."

Elara sighed, her shoulders slumping. "I know, but I need to improve. I can't afford to be anything less than perfect."

Yord placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Perfection is an illusion, Elara. It's our dedication and willingness to grow that truly matter. Come, sit with me for a moment."

They moved to a nearby bench, and Yord handed her a flask of water. As she took a sip, he spoke again. "I see great potential in you, Elara. You're determined and strong, but you also need balance. Sometimes, stepping back and reflecting can be as important as the training itself."

Elara nodded slowly, her eyes meeting his. "I just... I feel like I have so much to prove. To Master Norin, to myself."

"Master Norin sees your potential, and so do I," Yord said, his tone warm. "But it's okay to have doubts and fears. We all do. Even Jedi Knights."

Elara looked at him, surprised. "You have doubts?"

Yord chuckled softly. "Of course. Every mission, every decision carries its own set of challenges. But it's through those challenges that we grow stronger."

Elara's gaze softened, and she allowed herself to relax a bit. "Thank you, Master Yord. Your words mean a lot to me."

"Anytime, Elara," he replied, his eyes holding hers a moment longer than necessary. "Remember, you don't have to face these challenges alone. If you ever need guidance or just someone to talk to, I'm here."

Elara felt a warmth spread through her at his words. "I appreciate that. Truly."

They sat in comfortable silence for a few moments, the bond between them growing stronger. As they finally stood to leave, Yord offered one last piece of advice. "Get some rest tonight. We'll train together tomorrow, and I'll show you a few techniques that might help."

Elara smiled, a sense of relief washing over her. "I'd like that. Goodnight, Master Yord."

"Goodnight, Elara," he replied, watching her leave with a sense of pride and a burgeoning affection that he kept carefully guarded.

As Elara made her way back to her quarters, she couldn't help but feel a new sense of hope and determination. Her thoughts lingered on Yord's words and the kindness in his eyes. She was starting to see him not just as a mentor, but as someone she deeply admired. And maybe, just maybe, there was something more growing between them.