Promises and Deals | The Mandalorian

.102

 "I really hate this place," Alora mutters as she and the Mandalorian land their ships at Jabba's old palace. Her skin crawls as her hand subconsciously rubs her side. She remembers the cattle prods Jabba's goons used and the terrible games played in these walls.

"You've been here too?"

"Started with carbonite, ended near a Sarlacc pit," Alora quips, tugging her cloak closer. "Maybe your new pal Boba Fett can fill you in."

A Gamorrean with a battle axe waits for them by the entrance. Alora stays a step behind Mando as he says, "We're here at the request of Fennec Shand and Boba Fett."

The Gamorrean nods and leads them in. "Well, that went easier than last time," Alora sighs as she glances around the palace. It has changed in the past few years, thankfully. She looks at the locked trap door with a fondness she can't place—as if watching Luke fighting for his life was a good memory.

When they walk into the war room, everyone glances their way. Fennec and Fett stand with others obviously on his payroll around a map of the closest city. A Twi'lek man stands in chains next to a guard as Alora surveys the room quickly, noting the exits she could use if needed. Fett sends them both a nod as they settle at the edges of the room.

"Now that we're all here, let's begin," Fett says.

Fennec nods and clasps her hands behind her back. "The Pike Syndicate has been gathering soldiers the last few weeks. Mayor Mok Shaiz is on their payroll and has flown off world, which leads us to believe the storm is about to break."

The prisoner in chains steps forward, saying, "It was a scheduled vacation, actually."

With a roll of her eyes, Alora twists her wrist, The prisoner fiddles with his chains, wincing in pain as he is pulled back to the wall.

"Here's a map of where they are gathering, based on whispers," Fennec explains as she points to the hologram. "The three crime families of Mos Espa seem willing to lay low and let the Pykes move on our territory. This is the Mandalorian, Din Djarin, and his companion who goes by Tiri. Thanks to them and Krrsantan, we now have enough experienced muscle to act as enforcers. The Mods have done a thorough job of surveying the streets, but we lack the numbers to cover territory if an all-out war comes. We need foot soldiers."

"I might be able to help with that," the Mandalorian says.

Alora narrows her eyes as she looks at him.

"Get on it, and quickly," Fennec replies.

Alora follows him out and only once they are out of earshot does she ask, "And how might you be able to help with foot soldiers?"

"Cobb Vanth."

"Tell me you're joking." He just keeps walking. "Mando. That's not going to work."

"I will call in a favor."