Written by: Tessa Alloine

 

One discovery often leads to another. Though one may not always like what one finds . .

 

A couple of weeks back, you may recall that I was researching Acolytes and what it could mean for the future of the Galaxy and the work schedule of Senator Fionnuala and her Guardians. 

 

Imagine my surprise when I discovered that the Acolytes of the Beyond, a strange Sith cult, was begun due to the discovery of the infamous and legendary Sith Lord, Darth Vader's Lightersaber! More specifically, Darth Vader's Lightsaber still clutched in his disembodied hand!

 

 After the Jedi Master Luke Skywalker cut it off in a mighty sweep of his own lightsaber in their ferocious duel of legend and song, it fell into an abyss. I had thought it lost and no doubt eaten by womp rats (or possibly poisonous, electric beetles!) but there was a transcript that said I was wrong - Darth Vader's Lightsaber was in fact stumbled upon by some Sith, or several, who recognized it and kept it. They made a shrine or some such thing and Darth Vader's Lightsaber (with the attached hand - now skeletal) was revered as the main point of their adoration and focus. 

 

But upon further study, I learned even THIS was incorrect. Darth Vader's Lightsaber WAS the object of worship for this cult, yes, but they did not have it in their possession. They had one that they THOUGHT was it. Strangely, their goal was to destroy Darth Vader's Lightsaber, in order that he may be reunited with the weapon (and no doubt his hand!) in death. 

It seems to me that they all could have done with a good hearty meal and a nap. 

 

Before Darth Vader created the weapon, it is said that Siths didn't make lightsabers. He was a real trend-setter. 
Not that I condone any of his actions, of course! 

And there is no truth to the rumours that Emperor Arrikzane keeps a black cloak in his closet and parades back and forth in front of the mirror, humming the Empirial March. 

No proof, anyway. 

 

There are many accounts that speak of the affection that Darth Vader held for his Lightsaber. More so than he held for most people, even those who should have been close to him. Even family. 

It is a strange thing, to love an object, instead of people. 

In my opinion, it is a good thing that the Lightsaber is lost. I certainly hope that no one goes after it. Even cut off, the Dark Lord's hand still gripped it. A fate no one wants. 

 

However, it might be a clue to if any of this Acolytes of the Beyond cult is still around. If you come across people seeking this artifact with a pointed interest, perhaps it would be wise to notify Senator Fionnuala. Just in case. Perhaps for their own protection if nothing else. They might fall into dangerous hands (hand?) otherwise!

 

Stay safe and don't hold onto things too hard. You never know when you might be made to let go - permanantly!