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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"I'M BRINGING YOU to a Mandalorian covert," Din told Bo-Katan as they flew over familiar dusty hills. "This is how we have survived in exile."
"I'm familiar," the woman responded.
"It's a secret location and you are my guest."
"They still live by the old ways," Bo noted.
"Yes. It will go smoother if you keep your helmet on. Trust me."
She scoffed mirthlessly. "Of course."
They landed on the sandy beach, the three ships taking up the majority of space. Ari's heart raced as she stared at the cave's entrance, her thoughts focusing on the mythological creature she witnessed. The pendant weighed heavily in her pocket, but she ignored it.
A looming figure stood just feet inside the cave, watching the strangers wearily. They were tall, dressed in dull blue armour that had seen many years on the dry planet. He came out into the sunlight as the outcasts exited their ships.
Ari vaguely remembered the Mandalorian before them, his towering height threatening to squash her with one blow. It was just another reminder of how delicate the situation was.
His head tilted at them and a group of armed personnel joined his side. "Come no further," he told the group in a gruff voice. "You are an apostate, Din Djarin."
They halted as he told them, but Din took a step forward, bold and determined. "No longer. I have been to the mines of Mandalore."
"Impossible. The mines were collapsed in the Purge. The planet is cursed."
"These are lies meant to keep us in exile," Din countered.
"How do we know that it is not you who is lying?"
"He speaks the truth," Ari spoke. "My friend and I witnessed it."
The man turned to Bo-Katan, still trying to find a loophole to shun them away. "And who is this Nite Owl?"
Bo stepped forward, shoulders squared. "I am Bo-Katan of Clan Kryze."
"Your House had fallen from the Way. You are both apostates."
"She may be so, but I have been in the Living Waters and so has Ari, though she does not cover her face. That is her choice. I bring proof." He brought the thin pile from his belt and held it out to the man.
But he did not take it, still not believing them. "We shall see." He turned and led them to the cave, the other Mandalorains parting for them as they passed. All eyes were on them and Ari kept close to Din but did not reach out for him. She had a feeling affection was kept from prying eyes.
