4 BBY — Coruscant — The private diplomatic transport glides effortlessly through the bustling atmosphere of Coruscant, the planet’s skyline a breathtaking tapestry of glimmering spires and dazzling lights. Arya sits comfortably in her plush seat, her heart racing with anticipation. She is on her way to one of the most prestigious hotels the galaxy has to offer, a place where the elite mingle and secrets are whispered behind closed doors.
Upon arrival, she steps into the lavish lobby, her senses overwhelmed by the opulence surrounding her. The marble floors glisten under the soft glow of chandeliers, and elegantly dressed patrons flit about like vibrant butterflies, each one seemingly more important than the last. Arya feels a bit out of place in her simple attire, but she carries herself with confidence.
After checking in, she secures the commission parcel in the hotel safe, ensuring that her carefully crafted work remains protected. “BD, you’re on watch duty,” she instructs her trusty droid companion, who beeps affirmatively in response, its sensors whirring as it scans the surroundings.
With the parcel safe, Arya decides to explore the hotel. She glances at the lobby bar, its ambiance inviting, but feels a pull toward the rooftop restaurant instead. However, as she arrives at the entrance, the sheer elegance of the place feels overwhelming. It’s too swanky for her taste. The atmosphere is rife with the chatter of high-ranking officials and the clinking of expensive glasses, and Arya quickly realizes she isn’t ready for such a setting.
“Back to the bar it is,” she mutters, turning on her heel and retracing her steps. The lobby bar is far more casual, and she finds her footing among the patrons. Taking a seat at the counter, she orders a drink and some food from the hotel shop, savoring the familiar flavors.
After a satisfying meal, Arya heads back to her room, eager to surprise BD with a small treat she picked up from the shop. The droid’s sensors detect her presence, and it lights up with anticipation as she enters.
“Surprise, BD! I brought you a little something,” she says, holding out a small energy bar designed for droids. BD’s mechanical eyes blink in appreciation, and it eagerly accepts the offering.
With the day’s tasks complete, Arya finally succumbs to exhaustion, slipping beneath the sheets of her plush bed. Sleep comes easily, her mind drifting off to the adventures that lay ahead.
The sun spills through the windows as Arya awakens, a sense of renewed energy coursing through her. Breakfast in bed is a welcome luxury, and she takes her time enjoying the meal before preparing for the day.
“Let’s see what today has in store,” she murmurs to BD, who dutifully follows her every move with watchful sensors. Arya makes her way to the lobby, ready to meet her contact. She finds a comfortable seat in the waiting area when a man in a gray suit takes an adjacent seat.
“Good morning,” he says with a friendly smile.
“Good morning,” Arya replies, engaging in light small talk as she awaits the speeder. “I’m a tailor, actually.”
“Oh? That’s fascinating. Always nice to meet someone who crafts with their hands,” he responds, his interest genuine.
The conversation drifts along amicably, but Arya can sense the impending arrival of Mon Mothma, her focus shifting as she spots the senator’s speeder pulling up. With a polite nod, she politely cuts off the conversation, excusing herself.
“Excuse me, I need to—”
The moment she steps into the vehicle, she’s greeted by Mon Mothma’s calm demeanor. “Thank you for coming, Arya. I hope you’re ready for the meeting.”
With that, they set off towards the buyer’s shop, the atmosphere inside the speeder both professional and charged with purpose. As they travel, Arya can’t help but notice how the bustling skys outside give way to the more austere buildings of their destination. Arriving at the shop, Arya is struck by its cold, stark cement and glass interior that feels both imposing and impersonal. She steps inside, greeted by a sense of anticipation.
Kleya, the assistant, introduces herself with a warm smile, leading Arya deeper into the shop, which is filled with an impressive assortment of antiquities. Each item tells a story, and Arya feels a flutter of excitement as she imagines the histories behind them.Eventually, Kleya guides Arya to the back room where the Proprietor is waiting. The man is dressed impeccably, his presence commanding as he surveys Arya with keen interest.
“Welcome,” he says, gesturing for Arya to approach. “I’ve been looking forward to this fitting.” As Arya goes through the fitting, she can sense his discerning eye, noting the subtleties of her craftsmanship. The atmosphere is charged with expectation, and Arya feels a swell of pride as she showcases her work. Upon completing the fitting, the Proprietor turns serious. “I deal in information as much as crafts. I know about your previous encounter on Coruscant. You’re a name that’s beginning to circulate.”
Arya blinks, caught off guard. “What do you mean?”
“There are whispers,” he continues, “and I believe we can come to an arrangement. You’re seeking something, and I can help you with that. Now to your payment.” He explains that as partial payment for the commission, he has four objects to offer: ancient armor, a compass, a bowcaster, and a necklace. Each holds a story, but Arya’s instincts tell her to select the Dathomirian Compass. Arya’s heart races at the thought of the adventure that lies ahead. “I’ll take the compass,” she says firmly, and the Proprietor nods, a satisfied smile crossing his face.
“There’s more,” he adds, leaning closer. “I have a very specific job offer that could use your talents. You’d need to leave Chandrila.”
The prospect of a new mission excites Arya. “I’m in.” With the agreement made, Arya heads back to the hotel to collect BD before they leave. As she rides back with Mon Mothma, she notices a sense of disturbance in the senator’s demeanor.
“Everything alright?” Arya asks, concerned.
“Change of plans,” Mon Mothma replies, her voice steady but her eyes revealing a flicker of uncertainty. “You’ll be traveling with the Proprietor. It’s essential to ensure your safety.”
Once at the hotel, Arya collects BD and they head to the designated pickup point where a rather generic boxy transport awaits. Striding up the ramp onto Proprietor’s ship, she watches as he interacts with the ship’s systems with expert and an almost anticipatory ease.
“Impressive setup,” Arya remarks, her curiosity piqued.
“Thank you,” the Proprietor grunts. “This vessel is much more sophisticated than most. It’s equipped for what lies ahead.”
As they leave the system, Arya’s anticipation swells. The Proprietor shares insights about the mission, hinting at the planet they’ll be preparing for a base — a desolate place, seemingly forgotten by the galaxy. The stars stretch before them as the ship surges into hyperspace, Arya’s heart pounding with excitement for the journey ahead and the mysteries yet to unfold.