4 BBY — Taanab — The Ashla’s Hand descends into the capital city of Pandoth, its engines humming smoothly as Arya peers out the viewport. The arrival is starkly different from her previous visit; this time, they glide into an actual spaceport, bustling yet controlled. The cargo-oriented atmosphere smells of fresh agricultural products and the sharp tang of industrial activity.
As they touch down, Arya’s heart races. She knows there are security controls here, and the sight of daily liner services and cargo handling reminds her that this is a functioning planet, unlike the chaos she left behind on Hoth. Once disembarked, Arya notices the limited movement around the passenger loading area. It’s relatively small, dominated by cargo pads as agricultural shipments are loaded onto waiting ships.
“Alright, stay close,” Shosmi warns as they approach the port checkpoint. The atmosphere shifts; Arya can feel the tension in the air as they approach the guards. She instinctively places a hand on her concealed blaster, but Shosmi gives her a knowing glance. “No blasters,” she reminds Arya quietly.
They step forward together, and the officer at the checkpoint scrutinizes them, his eyes narrowing as he scans their identification. Arya’s heart sinks as she recalls the warning she received — her name is on a list. The officer’s gaze fixes on her as he begins to speak, but before he can finish, Shosmi interjects, her voice smooth and confident. “You’re mistaken, officer. We’re just here for a short visit, and my friend is an important envoy.”
Arya watches in awe as Shosmi employs what she can only describe as a Jedi mind trick, her voice laced with a subtle but undeniable power. The officer blinks, momentarily confused, and waves them through. “Alright, you’re clear. Move along.”
With a rush of relief, Arya follows Shosmi, the weight of her fears lifting ever so slightly. “That was impressive,” she says, looking at her companion.
“Just a little trick I picked up,” Shosmi replies with a mischievous smile. “Let’s move on.”
As they step into the bright sunlight of Taanab, Arya can’t help but feel a sense of familiarity wash over her. The landscape reminds her of home, with sprawling fields and vibrant colors. It feels comforting, inviting her to breathe deeply and appreciate the beauty around her. The Banthal spaceport is managed by the corporate agricultural conglomerate, and as they walk through town, Arya absorbs the details of her surroundings. The streets are lined with quaint shops, and she can see the signs of FloraGalactic’s influence in the botanical displays adorning storefronts. As they navigate the bustling streets, Shosmi leads Arya southeast toward the Jedi Chapter House. Upon arrival, they are greeted by a curious eyestalk peeking from behind a door, followed by a friendly face.
“Talandra!” Shosmi calls out, waving enthusiastically.
“Welcome! It’s good to see you both!” Talandra responds, ushering them inside. The interior is warm and inviting, a stark contrast to the coldness of the previous planet. As they settle in, a figure enters the room. It’s Sully, a member of the Hidden Path, her demeanor serious but welcoming. “I understand you’ve come seeking assistance,” she says, looking Arya directly in the eyes.
“Exactly,” Arya replies, her heart pounding. “I’ve been discovered, and I need help.”
Sully nods, understanding the gravity of the situation. “You’re in the right place. We can provide you with what you need.”
Shosmi then produces the pouch containing the two crystals she had taken from Christophsis, presenting them to Quinlan, a former Jedi who assists the Hidden Path in guiding young Force users. She observes the exchange with keen interest, her mind racing with possibilities.
“What are these?” Quinlan asks, examining the crystals closely.
“Two kyber crystals,” Shosmi explains. “They were recovered from an Imperial facility.”
Quinlan’s eyes widen as he realizes their significance. “These are valuable,” he says, a note of respect in his tone. “I’ll ensure they are kept safe.” Quinlan turns. “I’ve heard about you, Arya. Your encounter on Coruscant has raised some eyebrows. The Inquisitors are actively searching for you,” he cautions.
Arya’s heart sinks. “I know. That’s why I need to leave Chandrila.”
Sully looks at her, concern etched on her features. “The Hidden Path can help you. We have safe routes to the Outer Rim, where you can start anew.”
Arya nods. “I’m ready to do whatever it takes.”
Later in the day, the trio heads over to the Thirsty Nerf cantina, the local watering hole for farmers and workers. Arya notices the lack of speeders in town, with most parked on the outskirts. It’s a simple establishment, the air thick with the smell of hearty stew and the sound of laughter. Inside, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. Farmers congregate around tables, sharing tales of the day’s work, while a few droids serve drinks. The bartender, Malleous or “Mal” as he goes by, greets Shosmi with familiarity.
“Hey there, Shosmi! What can I get for you today?” Mal asks, his voice gruff but friendly. He sports an eyepatch over one eye and a heavyset frame, his hands steady as he pours drinks.
“Just the usual, Mal,” Shosmi replies, “and maybe introduce me to my friend here?”
“Ah, yes. Who’s your friend?” Mal inquires, turning his gaze to Arya.
“I’m Arya, a tailor,” she responds, a hint of pride in her voice. “Happy to be of service.”
“Tailoring, eh? We could always use a good seamstress around here,” Mal chuckles, pouring Arya a local “ale”—a deep amber drink that tastes surprisingly good.
As they settle in, Arya studies the local attire. The patrons wear functional outdoor clothes—coveralls and jumpsuits suited for the hard work of farming. She stands out in her dark gray attire, but she embraces the uniqueness it affords her. Just as Arya enjoys her drink, a group of Imperials enters, their presence immediately shifting the atmosphere in the cantina. The tension thickens as they take a table nearby, their voices grating against the relaxed conversations of the patrons.
Shosmi turns, her expression darkening. “Oh, Conan is here. I should introduce you at some point,” she says, her tone laced with concern.
Arya takes a sip of her ale, her mind racing. “Should we leave?”
“Not yet,” Shosmi replies, her ears tilted toward the Imperials. “Let’s wait to learn how things play out.”
As they continue to chat, Arya can feel the tension in the room. The bartender tries to keep the atmosphere light, but the presence of the Imperials casts a shadow over the cantina.
“Let’s settle the tab and get out of here,” Shosmi whispers.
Once outside, they make their way to the marketplace, which is closing up for the day. The atmosphere is less tense here, but Arya remains on high alert. The streets are filled with familiar faces, and Arya takes note of the few non-humans in the crowd — a Rodian stall keeper catches her eye, his makeshift setup a stark contrast to the bustling market. They pass through an approved access point at the north end of the port, showing their credentials to the guards. The tension from the cantina still lingers in the air, but Arya feels a sense of relief as they pass through, grateful to have made it without incident.