Silent Reckonings [Yord Fandar x OC]

Chapter 17

The Jedi's transport ship settled gently on the remote planet of Ueda, its landing gear making contact with the dusty ground. The atmosphere was thick and humid, the air carrying the scent of decaying organic matter and rust. Elara and Jecki Lon stepped off the ship, their senses immediately attuned to the foreign environment. They were accompanied by a contingent of Jedi Masters and Knights, including Master Sol and Master Norrin.

Ueda was a haven for wanderers, a desolate yet oddly tranquil planet located near a distant space station. The bustling activity of travelers and traders that frequented the area had left its mark on the landscape. The group's mission was to investigate the murder of Master Indara and interview any witnesses who might have seen or heard something relevant to the case.

The Jedi approached the heart of the settlement—a rundown noodle shop that served as a makeshift hub for those passing through. The shop, with its faded neon sign and weather-beaten exterior, appeared to be the central gathering place for travelers. The Jedi entered, their presence immediately causing a stir among the patrons.

Inside, the air was thick with the smell of spices and the murmurs of various conversations. The Jedi's authoritative presence drew curious glances from the shop's patrons, who paused their activities to observe the unusual visitors. Master Sol took the lead, his calm demeanor providing a reassuring presence in the chaotic surroundings.

Elara and Jecki found a corner of the shop where they could begin their interviews. Elara's gaze swept over the room, noting the diverse clientele that filled the space—travelers, traders, and a few locals who seemed to be regulars. She approached a middle-aged Twi'lek sitting alone at a table, their green skin reflecting the soft, flickering lights of the shop.

"Excuse me," Elara said softly, taking a seat across from the Twi'lek. "We're investigating the recent murder of Jedi Master Indara. We'd appreciate any information you might have about unusual activity or visitors in the past few days."

The Twi'lek looked up from her bowl of noodles, her eyes wary but curious. "I might have seen something," she began hesitantly. "There was a human who came through a few days ago—seemed nervous, kept to himself. He didn't stay long but had a quick exchange with some shady-looking characters."

Jecki, who had been observing from a distance, nodded to Elara. She followed up with more questions, trying to extract as much detail as possible. The Twi'lek described the man's appearance and the nature of the conversation he had with the shady figures. While the information was scant, it provided a potential lead for the Jedi.

As Elara continued her inquiries, Master Sol and Master Norrin spoke with other patrons and staff members. The presence of the Jedi in the noodle shop had created a palpable tension, but it also elicited a flood of information from those willing to talk. Some were eager to help, while others were more guarded, revealing little more than vague hints and half-truths.

Hours passed as the group gathered information and pieced together fragments of the puzzle. The leads pointed to a possible connection between the murder and a series of underground dealings involving dark side sympathizers. It was clear that the investigation was far from over, and the path to finding Master Indara's killer was fraught with complexity.

As the sun began to set over Ueda, casting long shadows across the planet's barren landscape, Elara and Jecki convened with the other Jedi. They compared notes and discussed their findings, trying to make sense of the clues they had gathered.

"Master Sol, Master Norrin," Elara said, turning to the two senior Jedi, "we have a lead on a human who might have been involved. The description matches someone who has been seen interacting with known dark side elements."