Arani Jakal was not ready to be stranded on an unfamiliar planet, causing her whole life to change. But in the chaos, a friend or two popped up - seemingly from nowhere - wishing to help. Ari gladly accepted and quickly became part of a small town...
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VANTH GRABBED THE DRINK Taanti poured him and turned back to Din, his brow raised. "I still don't see what that's got to do with me," he said once Mando finished his story.
"I need you to lead a garrison. Your people are good fighters, and there's plenty of credits in it for them too."
The Marshal sat down across from him and he knew Vanth was torn. "The peace is intact, Mando. We took out that Dragon. My people don't want to fight no more."
"Your town might be good for now, but it's all part of the same planet. We need good people to step up or the spice is bound to come through these parts."
"As long as I'm here, that's not a problem. So why should they risk their lives for this Boba Fett?"
"Mos Pelgo might be good right now-"
"Freetown," the Weequay interrupted.
"What?"
Vanth put down his drink. "It's called Freetown now."
"We changed the name. Suits us better."
"Well, I fought side-by-side with the citizens of Freetown, and they're brave people, and the Pyke syndicate has us outnumbered, and we need your help."
"The town wants no part of it. that's a city folk fight," Taanti responded, walking away from the bar to help another patron.
"Is that what you say too, Marshal?"
"We're square, you and me."
"Yes, we are. But I didn't think you were one to back down from bullies."
"See, that's what I like about you, Mando. That big smile of yours lets you get away with anything," Vanth joked.
"There's no easy way to ask for a favour. But I do know that if Ari were still here . . . with me, you wouldn't hesitate. Trust me, there was a time when I would do anything for her as well. So, now I'm asking for you to do something for me."
Vanth chuckled, staring at the glass in his hand. He should have seen it coming: the emotional jab Mando made to the only thing he had left of his family. Two could play that game. "I'll tell you what. Things are tough around here, but I'll see what I can do."
Din nodded and got up, leaving.
Cobb watched him fly away alongside Taanti, silently wishing he had a ship like his. "Get the word out. I want all men and women of fighting age to come to town. I want to have a meeting."
