4 BBY — Chandrila — Nora stands in the dimly lit room, her expression serious as she informs Arya about the findings from Christophsis. “The notebooks we found have been analyzed. The Imperials were conducting tests on kyber crystals. We’re not sure what the research was for, but the facility was in the process of being moved.”
Arya listens intently, her mind racing with possibilities. “What kind of tests?”
Nora shakes her head. “We don’t have all the details. Just that it was focused on kyber. I need to ask you something, Arya. Do you have any insight into how we can sell these crystals without drawing attention?”
Arya furrows her brow, considering the implications. “Kyber crystals are rare and powerful. Fencing them will be tricky. Maybe Lor San Tekka at the Hanna Institute museum can help. He has extensive knowledge about ancient Jedi artifacts.”
Nora nods, though a shadow of worry lingers in her eyes. “I’m also concerned about Qardin. But I left the tooka with you, so that’s a good sign. Just be cautious. We can’t afford any slip-ups.”
Arya reassures her with a determined look. “I’ll be careful. Let’s see what Lor can tell us.”
They part ways, and Arya heads to the Hanna Institute museum. The towering structure looms ahead, its grand architecture a testament to the wealth of knowledge contained within. She steps inside, greeted by the familiar scent of aged parchment and polished stone.
Lor San Tekka is in his office, surrounded by ancient texts and artifacts. He looks up as Arya enters, a warm smile spreading across his face. “Arya, it’s been too long.”
They exchange pleasantries before Arya broaches the subject of kyber crystals. “Lor, I need your expertise. We found some kyber crystals on Christophsis. What do you know about their properties and uses?”
Lor’s expression becomes serious as he contemplates her question. “Kyber crystals are indeed fascinating. Many planets have crystals with various properties. The Jedi studied them extensively, but much of their knowledge was kept secret, and written records are scarce.” He leads Arya to a secluded study area, where she can work undisturbed. “You might find some information in these old data tapes. They’re general and scientific, but they might provide a starting point.”
Arya spends hours poring over the data tapes, absorbing the dry scientific material. The tapes discuss the resonating frequencies of kyber crystals and their unique energy properties. Intrigued, Arya decides to dig deeper, drawing on the Journal of the Whills and ancient Jedi texts.
She requests the texts and begins her research with the aid of a droid page-turner. The droid’s mechanical precision ensures the delicate pages are preserved. Arya delves into the texts, searching for insights on kyber crystals. Lor’s prediction holds true—the Jedi didn’t leave much written about kyber crystals. The texts mention Sith superweapons and hint that lightsaber color is determined by the user rather than the crystal. Arya recalls her own experience when her crystal called to her, a deeply personal connection.
Shifting her focus, she looks for information on lightsaber construction. The Journal of the Whills describes various unique lightsabers, including a black lightsaber wielded by a Mandalorian Jedi and one capable of generating a planet-cracking sound.
Arya’s curiosity grows as she studies the evolution of Jedi training. The High Order texts discuss the acquisition of crystals but lack details on their deeper significance. She reads about Raskta Lsu, an Echani Jedi Weapon Master, who designed an Echani-style double-bladed lightsaber, reflecting Arya’s own heritage.
Satisfied with her research, Arya thanks Lor for his help. “I appreciate your assistance. It’s always enlightening to visit you.”
Lor smiles warmly. “Do come again, Arya. May the Force be with you.”
Back at her flat on Chandrila, Arya carefully lays out the kyber crystals in a circle. She sits in the center, closing her eyes and reaching out with the Force. The energy from the crystals is overwhelming, a cacophony of power. She focuses on her own crystal, feeling its familiar resonance.
The other crystals hum in the background, their energy potent but distant. Arya packages them up, swapping her own crystal into her lightsaber. The blade seems brighter, its energy more intense.
Nora contacts Arya with news of a potential buyer. “I’ve found someone interested in the crystals. I can’t accompany you, though. I have to return to Sullust for a few days.”
Arya acknowledges her message, packing up a set of crystals for trade. She includes a swirly-colored crystal, a white one with gold flecks, and a Christophsis crystal. With her two pouches of crystals secured, Arya heads to the central market. The vibrant outdoor market buzzes with activity. She navigates through the crowd, making her way to a shop on a side street.
As she completes her usual shopping, Arya senses a presence behind her. A knife presses against her neck, and a voice hisses, “Move into the alleyway.” Arya complies, recognizing the voice. It’s Shosmi Khaar. “Did you find my gift useful?” Shosmi asks, a sly smile playing on her lips.
Arya remains calm. “Yes, I did. You have my crystal.”
Shosmi feigns ignorance. “What crystal do I have? You seem to have several.”
Arya focuses, feeling the white crystal with gold flecks. “This one. It’s mine.”
Shosmi nods. “I need to pack up my shop. Let’s discuss the crystals over a meal.”
As they walk, Arya realizes she hasn’t seen the knife since Shosmi first pulled it on her. Where did it go?