Star Wars: The Tale Of Jacyn Daruss

Chapter 7: Paths Diverge

Four years had passed since that fateful spar in the training room, and the time had come for Jacyn and Selene to embark on a new chapter of their Jedi training. Their youthful innocence had given way to a maturity that belied their age. Now thirteen years old, they stood at the precipice of their individual destinies, ready to be assigned to different Jedi Masters.

The announcement echoed through the hallowed halls of the Jedi Temple, marking a bittersweet moment for Jacyn and Selene. They had become inseparable during their time as younglings, forging a bond that transcended friendship. Now, the Force beckoned them to walk separate paths, each guided by a different mentor.

Jacyn looked at Selene, a mixture of excitement and apprehension evident in his eyes. "Selene, can you believe it? We're being assigned to different Jedi Masters."

Selene nodded, her gaze fixed on the ground for a moment before meeting Jacyn's eyes. "I know, Jacyn. It feels strange to think about not being by your side anymore. We've been through so much together."

Jacyn reached out, gently placing a hand on Selene's shoulder. "Our bond is strong, Selene. No matter where our paths lead us, we'll always carry a piece of each other with us."

Selene managed a small smile, her voice tinged with a hint of sadness. "You're right, Jacyn. We've grown together, learned together. But now, we must trust in the Force's plan for us."

As the Jedi Council gathered to assign apprentices to their respective Masters, Jacyn's heart fluttered with anticipation and a tinge of uncertainty. He had grown accustomed to Selene's presence, her unwavering support, and their shared experiences. Parting ways would undoubtedly bring a sense of loss, but he understood the necessity of this next phase in their Jedi training.

Selene took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves. "Whatever comes next, Jacyn, I believe in us. We will each find our own path, but our friendship will endure."

The moment arrived as the Council members began their deliberations. Jedi Masters conferred, their wise eyes scanning through the records and notes of the apprentices. In the end, decisions were made, and names were spoken, sealing the fate of Jacyn and Selene.

Jacyn's heart skipped a beat as his name was announced to be assigned to Master Jareth, a seasoned Jedi Knight known for his unwavering dedication to the Jedi Code. The news brought a mix of excitement and nervousness, as he knew that this would be a new chapter of growth and challenges. He resolved to be the best apprentice he could be under Master Jareth's guidance.

Selene listened intently as her own name was called, her destiny entwined with Master Lyra, a renowned Jedi Knight revered for her wisdom and mastery of the Force. A sense of reverence filled Selene's heart, knowing that she had been entrusted to learn from someone of such esteemed reputation. She embraced the opportunity with a determination to honor her new mentor.

Jacyn turned to Selene, his voice filled with a mixture of pride and sadness. "Selene, Master Jareth is known for his unwavering commitment to the Jedi Code. I'm honored to be his apprentice, but it means we'll be apart."

Selene's eyes met Jacyn's, a hint of longing and determination shining through. "We knew this day would come, Jacyn. Our connection will endure, no matter the distance. I'm grateful to have you as my friend and fellow Jedi."

After being assigned to their master,  Jacyn and Selene found themselves strolling through the serene Jedi Temple Garden, seeking solace and a moment of respite from the bustling activities within the Temple walls. The vibrant blossoms and soothing sounds of nature provided the perfect backdrop for their private conversation.

As they walked, a comfortable silence enveloped them until Jacyn couldn't keep his thoughts contained any longer. He turned to Selene, his voice filled with a mixture of vulnerability and earnestness. "Selene, there's something I need to tell you. Something that's been on my mind for a long time."

Selene looked at him, her eyes searching his face for any hint of what he was about to say. "What is it, Jacyn? You can tell me anything."

He took a deep breath, gathering his courage. "It's about us, Selene. Our connection goes beyond friendship. I can't deny the way I feel about you anymore. Being apart, training under different mentors, it only made me realize how much you mean to me."

Selene's heart skipped a beat, the realization of her own feelings rushing to the surface. "Jacyn, I... I feel the same way. Our bond, our connection, it's undeniable. But we're Jedi, and we have a duty to the Order."

Jacyn nodded, understanding the weight of their responsibilities. "I know, Selene. We can't let our personal feelings interfere with our commitment to the Jedi Code. But it doesn't change how we feel."

A brief pause hung in the air, charged with unspoken desires and unfulfilled longing. Their gazes locked, and in that moment, the world around them seemed to fade away. They leaned closer, their hearts racing in unison, drawn to the undeniable pull between them.

But just as their lips were about to meet, a voice pierced the tranquility of the garden. "Jacyn! Selene! There you are!"

Startled, they swiftly pulled away from each other, their cheeks flushed with a mix of embarrassment and a shared understanding that the timing was not right. It was Master Jareth, Jacyn's new master, who had found them.

Master Jareth approached with a warm smile, oblivious to the moment that had transpired. "It's time for your next training session, Jacyn. We have much to cover."

Jacyn nodded, his voice betraying none of the internal turmoil. "Of course, Master Jareth. I'll be right there."

Selene and Jacyn exchanged a knowing glance, a silent agreement to keep their feelings hidden for now. As Master Jareth led Jacyn away, Selene watched them go, her heart heavy with a mix of longing and determination. She went on to locate Master Lyra.

Their paths may have diverged once again, but their shared moment in the Jedi Temple Garden served as a poignant reminder that their feelings were real and undeniable. And though they couldn't explore the depths of their connection at this moment, they held onto the hope that someday, when the time was right, they would embrace their love openly.

In the meantime, they would focus on their training, their duties as Jedi Padawans-in-training, and trust in the Force to guide them. The galaxy awaited their contributions, and Jacyn and Selene were determined to fulfill their destinies, side by side, even if their love remained hidden for now.