He gets no response before he and other Mandalorians rush to the cave opening to see an X-wing landing. Just by the color, Din knows it is not Luke, so he quickly instructs the others to stay hidden. They could be here for Alora, and he is not entirely sure what the Mandalorians would think of that.

Someone in an orange jumpsuit climbs out of the ship and cautiously approaches the cave entrance. Spreading his arms, he says, "Captain Carson Teva, Adelphi Rangers. I have a time-pressing matter to attend to."

With a sigh, Din follows Paz Vizsla out of the cave. Paz Vizsla says, "Clear out, Blue Boy. The New Republic isn't welcome here."

"Sorry for dropping in unannounced," Carson Teva replies, his eyes lingering on Din, "but if I'd given warning, your settlement would've cleared out before I ever hit atmosphere."

Din steps forward. "How did you manage to find us? Mandalorians pride ourselves on our secrecy."

Carson slowly lowers his hands. "Fortunately, someone I served with in the Rebellion is amongst your ranks."

Din glances back with unease at the others until R5 beeps and quickly scoots its way over to Carson. "Thanks, R5," Carson solutes.

"The entire covert will now have to relocate," Din sighs.

"Or we could kill him," Paz Vizsla replies. "Stay right here."

"That won't be necessary." Din starts at Alora's voice as she steps between Mandalorians slowly with Grogu trotting along beside her. Her footsteps are steadier than he had seen in days, and her eyes are free of tears or redness. She passes Din and pauses between him and Carson. "Hi, Carson."

Carson's eyes widen before he bows his head. "High General. It's an honor to see you again."

"You look old."

"I am older than you, squirt." Carson chuckles with a warmth Din is unfamiliar with—it is truly genuine. "Quite the entrance."

"Do you want me to save you or not?" She takes a deep breath before she glances over her shoulder. "Captain Carson Teva is a war hero. He cut my friend a break once, and it's time to return the favor. Now is when you leave, Carson."

"Greef Karga sent this holo-message." As Carson reaches into his pocket, Din and every other Mandalorian reaches for their weapons. Carson slows but ultimately tosses the message to Alora. "Nevarro is under siege by pirates. He's asking for help."

Alora looks back at the Mandalorians, clenching her jaw. She then walks up to Carson, but Din finds himself following close behind. "Why are you really here, Carson?" She asks.

"They're about to blow Nevarro to hell."

"Call in a strike. The Mandalorians don't have ships, let alone any to spare."

"Coruscant doesn't care," Carson replies. "Karga is your Mandalorian's friend. He won't let him die."

"What's in it for you?" Din asks as they walk Carson back to his ship.

"The New Republic has to know that the Empire is growing again."

"And you think the Pirate King has something to do with it?" Alora asks. Though she sounds sarcastic, Din knows she is sincere. She is gathering information. Like she used to do.

"I can't say for sure," Carson sighs, "but something doesn't smell right. Look, it's not your fight. I just came to tell you that your friend is in danger, and I thought you should know. I didn't expect to see you, High General. I was told you were not traveling with him."

Alora does not smile, but she crosses her arms and nods. "I love the New Republic, Carson. But I couldn't stay."

He smiles. "I feel that way sometimes too. You're doing good, squirt. I know you're still fighting. Give yourself a break once in a while."

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