Silent Reckonings [Yord Fandar x OC]

Chapter 37

After dismissing the Padawans, Yord approached Elara with a light in his eyes. "I've heard from some Jedi that the refectory in the east side of the Temple is serving sweet flatcakes today. We should hurry before they stop serving them."

Elara's stomach growled at the mention of food. "That sounds perfect. I've been feeling hungry all the time lately." She started walking with him, her steps a bit heavy. "How can you be so chipper today? Did you sleep well?"

Yord nodded. "Yes, I did. But you look exhausted. Are you getting enough rest?"

Elara sighed. "These classes are draining. No matter how much I sleep, it feels like it's never enough."

Yord gave her a sympathetic look. "You should rest after we eat. You'll need your energy for the next class in a few hours."

Elara let out an amused chuckle. "Why am I even leading Padawan training? I'm not a Master. I should be out on missions, expanding my knowledge and skills."

Yord shrugged. "Master Norin and Master Sol needed your help. They're often away, pursuing leads on the Sith. Your presence here is invaluable."

Elara gave him a grateful smile as they reached the refectory. "I suppose you're right. But I still miss the thrill of missions."

Yord chuckled as they joined the queue for the sweet flatcakes. "You'll be back out there soon enough. For now, let's enjoy these cakes and recharge."

They found a table and sat down, enjoying the rare treat. Elara could feel the warmth of the place, even in the midst of her exhaustion. She knew Yord was right; this was just a temporary phase, and she would be back in the field soon.

As Elara sat down with her plate of sweet flatcakes, she took a deep breath to savor the aroma. But as the scent of the sweetness filled her nostrils, her stomach churned violently. She clamped a hand over her mouth, feeling the sudden urge to vomit.

Yord, already halfway through his flatcakes, looked up at her with concern. "Elara, are you okay?"

She nodded weakly, eyes squinting as she fought to keep herself composed.

"Do you not like the food?" he asked, worry etched on his face.

She shook her head, indicating she didn't like it, despite her earlier excitement.

"What changed your mind? You were so excited about these," he said, genuinely puzzled.

Elara tried to respond but found it hard to speak without gagging.

"Here, let me taste yours," Yord offered, taking her plate. He took a bite, carefully assessing the flavor. "It tastes the same as mine. It's delicious."

Elara managed a weak smile, still unable to understand her sudden aversion. "Maybe it's just... I don't know. Maybe I'm just not feeling well."

Yord nodded, still looking concerned. "How about I get you something else? Would you like that?"

She nodded gratefully. "I would like that."

"Alright, sit tight. I'll be right back," he said, standing up and heading towards the food counter.

As she waited, Elara took slow, deep breaths, trying to calm her unsettled stomach. Yord returned with a bowl of steaming hot porridge, carefully placing it in front of Elara. "I thought this might help calm your stomach," he said with a gentle smile.

Elara hesitated for a moment, then leaned in to smell the porridge. The mild, comforting aroma was a welcome change from the overwhelming sweetness of the flatcakes. She took a tentative spoonful and tasted it, immediately feeling the warmth spread through her.