Star Wars Rebels: The Rise of the Rebellion

Chapter 15: The Protectors of Concord Dawn

Weeks after the rebels acquired the Hammerheads, the Ghost crew emerged from hyperspace and boarded one of the transports, making their way into the hangar. L

"We've got the supplies," Kanan announced as he, Zeb, Ezra, and Hunter entered the command room. "Fortunately, we managed to escape. The Empire is making our trips to the Outer Rim more challenging."

Commander Sato acknowledged their success. "Indeed, we are in need of a new hyperspace route—one that allows us to navigate in and out of the Lothal sector."

Sabine spoke up with a potential solution. "I may have the perfect shortcut: the system of Concord Dawn. It's a Mandalorian colony that remains beyond imperial control."

Ezra expressed his curiosity. "But why haven't they been taken over like everywhere else?"

Rex, drawing from his knowledge, provided an answer. "Concord Dawn is renowned for its elite warriors. They were even brought in to train the clones during the war. The Empire thinks twice before launching an attack against them."

Commander Sato contemplated the situation. "The question is, to whom do they owe their loyalty? The Empire occupies their home world of Mandalore, so Imperial influence could play a significant role."

Sabine, familiar with Mandalorian history, shared her insights. "Even before the Clone Wars, the Mandalorians were divided, engaged in conflicts amongst themselves. This particular group on Concord Dawn refers to themselves as the Protectors, and they abide by their own set of rules."

"So, we go in with strength," Sato said. "Scout their system to see what we're up against."

"Or we could try diplomacy, ask permission to use their system," Kanan said.

"Diplomacy," Sato scoffed. "Warriors like these only understand strength."

"He's got a point," Sabine said.

"But we shouldn't make an enemy if we don't need to," Hera said.

"I say we do it," Zalo said, placing a hand on Sabine's shoulder. "I trust Sabine's judgment. If she thinks it's worth the risk, that's good enough for me."

Sabine blushed crimson red as her heart started beating faster than before. "I can't fight this much longer. I'll tell him when the time is right," Sabine said to herself.

"Very well," Sato said. "Captain Syndulla, the mission is yours."

"Mind if we tag along?" Sabine asked, including Zalo.

"I was hoping you would ask," Hera replied.

Later, Hera led a group of A-Wings to Concord Dawn, and it looked like it had been through hell and back.

"So, that's Concord Dawn," Hera said over the speaker. "Sure looks like it's been through a war."

"Heh, this system has endured more than 100 wars," Sabine said.

"From what you said, I'm surprised that there is anything left," Zalo said.

Upon their arrival, they encountered three Mandalorian Fang fighters. The Mandalorians come alongside the rebel RZ-1 A-wing interceptors, and the lead pilot, Fenn Rau—the Protector of Concord Dawn contacted them.

"Attention, unregistered ships." Rau said. "This is Fenn Rau, Protector of Concord Dawn. You are trespassing. Identify yourselves."

"We come in peace, Protector." Hera said.

"Peace?" Fenn scoffed. "That's not a word I hear often. State your mission."

"We request safe passage through your system." Zalo said.