Silent Reckonings [Yord Fandar x OC]

Chapter 4

The afternoon sun cast a warm glow through the high windows of the training room. Today, Elara and Yord found themselves accompanied by Master Sol and his Padawan, Jecki. The room buzzed with the energy of practice, lightsabers humming and clashing.

As they warmed up, Elara turned to Yord. "Have you already finished training your Padawan today?"

"Yes, hours ago," Yord replied with a smile. "Now, let's focus on you. I saw your training last night. Your steps had some minuscule missteps. We'll start with the basics today."

Elara frowned. "But that's youngling training. I've moved past that."

"Foundations are important," Yord insisted. "Sometimes, looking back is the best way to move forward."

He demonstrated the proper stance, then stepped closer to adjust her positioning. His hands gently guided her legs into place, and Elara felt a strange, new sensation. Master Norrin had never used his hands to guide her, always relying on words, sticks, or the Force. This touch was different, and her heart pounded with each adjustment.

"Feel the balance," Yord said softly, his hands lingering to ensure her stance was correct.

Elara's thoughts raced. Why did such a simple touch affect her so deeply? She couldn't name the feelings stirring within her, but she knew they were new and powerful.

"Now, practice this form without your lightsaber," Yord instructed. "Master the stance, then we'll add the saber."

Elara nodded, focusing on the training but unable to ignore the growing tension. She practiced diligently, her movements becoming more precise under Yord's attentive gaze.

As the session ended, Yord's words echoed in her mind. "Remember, Elara, every step forward starts with a strong foundation."

She couldn't help but wonder if he was speaking only of her training.

Master Sol approached Yord and asked, "Is it alright if Jecki duels with Elara for once? She needs to learn how to duel with others besides me."

Yord nodded. "That sounds like a good idea."

Jecki and Elara faced each other, lightsabers at the ready. Jecki's talent was evident, but Elara's aggressive and fluid style kept her on her toes. Despite her occasional missteps, she fought with a ferocity that surprised Jecki.

After their duel, Yord turned to Elara. "Would you like to have a duel with me?"

Elara's eyes widened. "Yes, Master Yord, I'm ready."

They ignited their lightsabers and began. Yord's swings were offensive yet careful, each move calculated. Elara managed to block him, but his surprise offensive swings tested her defenses. The duel grew intense, their lightsabers crashing together with increasing force. Their movements became more agile, each anticipating the other's moves.

Suddenly, Elara miscalculated a swing and fell, landing on her side. Yord stopped his lightsaber just before it touched her arm. Jecki let out a gasp, shocked by the close call.

"Sorry, Elara," Yord said, his voice filled with concern. "Are you alright?"

Elara nodded, her heart racing from both the duel and Yord's proximity. "I'm fine. Thank you, Master Yord."

As she stood, brushing herself off, she couldn't shake the feeling that Yord's touch and his genuine concern were stirring something new within her.

Yord helped Elara to her feet, noticing her slight wince as she brushed off the dirt. "Let's take a break," he suggested, walking towards a bench inside the training room. He sat down, exhaling deeply.

Elara stood for a moment, wiping her forehead with her sleeve. Her face glistened with sweat. Yord looked up and patted the space next to him. "Come, sit and rest."

Elara complied, sitting beside him and nervously fiddling with her burnt sleeve—the one that had come perilously close to Yord's lightsaber. Yord noticed her distraction and gently placed a hand on her arm.

"You did well, Elara," he said softly. "But you need to be more aware of your surroundings, especially during an intense duel."

She nodded, her heart still pounding from the duel and from Yord's touch. "I'll try to be more careful," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

Yord's eyes softened as he looked at her. "You have great potential, Elara. Your passion and determination will take you far, but remember, patience and precision are just as important as power and speed."

Elara glanced up at him, her gaze lingering on his face. For a moment, she was lost in the depth of his eyes, the strength and kindness they conveyed. It was in this quiet moment, sitting beside him, that she realized just how much she admired him. Her heart fluttered, and she quickly looked away, focusing on her sleeve once more.

Yord cleared his throat, sensing the change in her demeanor. He decided to shift the conversation. "Do you have a favorite book, Elara? Something that inspires you?"

Elara looked up, surprised by the question. "Yes, actually," she said, a small smile forming on her lips. "I've always been fascinated by the tales of the ancient Jedi. Their wisdom and adventures inspire me."

Yord nodded, a smile playing on his lips as well. "The ancient texts are a treasure trove of knowledge. I often find myself lost in their stories too."

As they continued to talk, sharing their favorite passages and discussing the lessons they had learned, the bond between them grew stronger. Elara felt a warmth spreading through her, not just from the physical exertion of their training, but from the connection she was forming with Yord.

When their break ended, Yord stood and offered Elara a hand. "Ready to continue?"

Elara took his hand, feeling a surge of confidence and something else she couldn't quite name. "Ready," she said, her grip firm.

As they resumed their training, Elara's mind was more focused than ever. She was determined to prove herself, not just as a padawan, but as someone worthy of Yord's guidance and respect. And perhaps, in time, something more.