Daran Tal, driven by ambition, recognized the potential of the Crystal Web Station. His meticulous planning and keen eye for detail were instrumental in the success of his endeavors. While his early life remains largely a mystery, in 1 BBY, an unforeseen accident during a hyperspace journey forced his scout ship to revert to realspace near the Crystal Web Station. Despite Tal's arrival as the first outsider, the station was fully operational, poised to welcome visitors and enable the Lucents to engage with the galaxy.
The Lucents extended a warm welcome to Tal, and he quickly developed strong bonds with these crystalline beings. He gleaned some information about them during this period, but they consistently maintained secrecy regarding their home planet, offering only vague gestures towards the nebula whenever he inquired. Throughout his time with them, Tal discovered that the Lucents possessed innate navigational abilities, relying on no instruments for course plotting or jump calculations. Furthermore, he learned that their crystal-based technology operated on principles that were similar to, yet distinct from, the technology prevalent in the wider galaxy.
As Tal's understanding of the Lucents deepened, he became increasingly convinced that the Crystal Web Station could provide them with the connections they sought, while also generating substantial profits. He presented his proposal to the Lucent leaders, secured their approval, and then requested their assistance in calculating a hyperspace jump for his ship to initiate the plan. Upon returning to the station two months later, he brought a small team to manage operations, including his chief of security, Klaar, and his liaison officer, Lianna Tagon. Tal envisioned transforming the Crystal Web Station into a smaller-scale version of Cloud City, catering to travelers seeking expedited routes along the three primary hyperlanes. Aware of the Empire's prejudice against non-humans, Tal assumed the title of Baron Administrator, becoming the public, though not necessarily the true, leader of the station.
He took great pride in his achievements, yet he understood that the station's prosperity was primarily attributable to the Lucents who had originally constructed it. He was careful to keep this fact concealed, both to protect his own ego and to respect the Lucents' wishes. He was deeply committed to expanding the station's influence and reacted unfavorably to anyone who interfered with this objective, regardless of their affiliation.
Tal possessed a certain affability, consistently striving for diplomacy, but maintained a firm stance. He had few close confidants but many acquaintances. In contrast to some Baron Administrators, Daran eschewed ostentation, favoring tasteful attire that hinted at his position without being showy. He seldom raised his voice in anger, entrusting Klaar with maintaining order. However, if he ever did raise his voice, it signaled that his limits had been reached and that he was prepared to retaliate.
In 4 ABY, he played a pivotal role in persuading the Lucents to share a small portion of their crystal web technology, allowing them to leave a minor imprint on the galaxy. The Lucents agreed, stipulating that they would retain control over the arrangement; they desired to share their technology with all beings in the galaxy, not just a single faction. Tal was tasked with assembling a diverse group, ultimately inviting representatives from the New Republic, an Imperial Admiral and his two aides, and Orta the Hutt. Despite the inherent tension, the meeting proceeded smoothly, and all participants departed satisfied.