EXT. TATOOINE - NIGHT 1
The light of TRIPLET MOONS spills over the desert planet of TATOOINE as a LONE FIGURE takes in the desolate landscape, turning to the town of MOS EISLEY in the distance.
INT. MOS EISLEY CANTINA - NIGHT 2
A LOUD RUCKUS fills the cantina as a BOUNTY HUNTER and BAIL JUMPER wrestle to the death.
The rest of the patrons look on in silence - some indifferent, some ambivalent, some silently taking bets on the outcome.
The Bounty Hunter overpowers the Bail Jumper, ending him with a single blaster round. A few patrons slow clap. Some begrudgingly pay their bets.
BOUNTY HUNTER
(chuckling)
Looks like I'm bringing you in cold.
The cantina doors BURST OPEN. The patrons look over and are shocked to see the silhouette of A MANDALORIAN.
The Mandalorian strides in, wearing worn-out, mismatched maroon, yellow armor, with the right PAULDRON bearing a signet of a NEVARRO REPTAVIAN.
Everyone is stunned at the SMALL SIZE of the Mandalorian, who can just barely lean over the bar. The Mandalorian flags down the BAR DROID.
MANDALORIAN
(young female voice) Droid.
IT'S A GIRL - 13 at most. The Bounty Hunter snorts as the Bar Droid turns to her.
BAR DROID
Aren't you too young to be drinking?
MANDALORIAN
Last I checked, this planet doesn't have anything resembling a lawful government.
BAR DROID
This is true. What can I get you?
The Mandalorian slides over several IMPERIAL CREDITS.
MANDALORIAN
One spotchka ...
(pauses)
...and information.
All ears perk up.
BAR DROID
(suspicious)
What kind of information?
MANDALORIAN
I'm looking for...someone who looks like me.
BAR DROID
There aren't many Mandalorians in these parts. Can't say I've seen any recently.
MANDALORIAN
Not just any Mandalorian. I am seeking...The Mand'alor.
BAR DROID
Mandalore? You mean the planet?
MANDALORIAN
No, I mean...
BOUNTY HUNTER (O.S.)
Well lookie what we have here.
The Bounty Hunter hovers over the Mandalorian, blocking her in at the bar.
BOUNTY HUNTER
That's a pretty cute costume you have on there lil' miss. Did your daddy get it made for you?
MANDALORIAN
(stiff)
It's not a costume.
The Bounty Hunter LAUGHS as other patrons snicker.
BOUNTY HUNTER
Yeah, like I'm supposed to believe
that y_o_u_ are a Mandalorian.
(obnoxious voice)
A Mandalorian! The greatest warriors in the Galaxy.
He leans in uncomfortably close to her.
BOUNTY HUNTER
You ain't no Mandalorian.
He motions his BLASTER to her shoulder.
BOUNTY HUNTER
And this, isn't beskar.
With a flick of his wrist, he smacks the tip of his metal blaster on her pauldron.
The unmistakable ring of PURE BESKAR metal echoes through the silent cantina, startling several patrons, who turn to her with hunger in their eyes.
The Mandalorian turns slowly to the bounty hunter. His eyes
widen in f_e_a_r_ as he realizes his fatal mistake.
She makes a fist, a large BLADE pops out of her vambrace. The Bounty Hunter leaps back and fires at her - his blaster round bounces harmlessly off her armor.
She leaps forward, ending him with a stab to the heart. Others jump into the fray.
The Mandalorian makes quick work of them, ending some with her blaster, with her flamethrower, and with brute force, using gravity to compensate for her size.
She engages a Devaronian with her fibercord whip, but he's too strong. He YANKS her off her feet, STRANGLING her in a headlock. She flails with all her might...
A RIFLE SHOT vaporizes the Devaronian. The Mandalorian drops free, gasping for breath as she looks up at her savior standing across the room.
TWO PRONGS of an Amban phase-pulse rifle come into view. The smoke clears.
It's COBB VANTH.
He glares at the remaining bar patrons, who cower away into the shadows.
COBB VANTH
The kid's coming with me.
EXT. TATOOINE - NIGHT 3
Cobb rides through the desert night on his speeder bike, the Mandalorian seated behind him.
EXT. TATOOINE - NIGHT 4
Cobb unloads a red blanket from his speeder as the Mandalorian sits by a fire, wiping the blood from her armor. He wraps the blankets around her.
COBB VANTH
Here.
MANDALORIAN
Thank you.
She wraps it tighter around herself as Cobb sits down next to her.
COBB VANTH
Quite a situation you had yourself in back there...
MANDALORIAN
I've been through worse.
COBB VANTH
Hard to believe, for someone your age.
MANDALORIAN
I'm a Mandalorian. Fighting is a part of life. From the moment we are found, to the moment that we die.
COBB VANTH
Well, good thing that you didn't die tonight.
MANDALORIAN
(Slowly)
Why did you save me? Do you need me to kill someone or...?
COBB VANTH
No no, nothing like that.
He takes a swig from a water skin and sighs.
COBB VANTH
I owe my life, and my town owes its existence, to a Mandalorian.
MANDALORIAN
You've met one of my kind?!
COBB VANTH
(nods)
And after seeing you fight, it was clear to me you two were cut from the same cloth. I was...honor bound, to save you.
MANDALORIAN
Thank you.
(pause)
Where are they now?
COBB VANTH
Sadly I don't know, he didn't stick around too long.
MANDALORIAN
Not surprising.
COBB VANTH
Is he the one you're looking for?
MANDALORIAN
(shakes her head) Someone else.
COBB VANTH
Who then?
MANDALORIAN
The Mand'alor.
COBB VANTH
(confused) Not... the planet?
MANDALORIAN
No. The Mand'alor. The supreme ruler of all the Mandalorian people. We
heard that a new Mand'alor has risen, and that he is here on Tatooine.
(pause)
There's so few of us left. We've been slaughtered, hunted, forced into hiding.
(hangs head)
The Mand'alor can unite us, make us strong again. Strong, so we don't have to hide anymore.
Cobb fixates on the Mandalorian. He can't see her face, but the sorrow in her voice cuts deep into him. He sighs.
COBB VANTH
I will help you.
MONTAGE - TATOOINE 5
- Cobb and the Mandalorian ride through the desert. She wears the red blanket that Cobb gave her as a cape.
- They unload supplies at Mos Pelgo, where children gawk at the petite Mandalorian.
- A bunch of Jawas unload their wares at a junk shop as Cobb and the Mandalorian converse with the Toyarian owner.
- An INTENSE SHOOTOUT in a HANGER BAY as Cobb and the Mandalorian duck and run for their lives, taking shots at their pursuers as they barely escape.
- The two have a deep conversation at the home of a moisture farmer and his family. The farmer looks suspiciously at the Mandalorian.
- The farmer points towards the distance as the two say their goodbyes. They ride off into the twin sunsets as the farmer and his family look on.
EXT. STONE-LINED PATH TO JABBA THE HUTT'S PALACE - DAY 6
Astride his parked speeder bike, Cobb looks through binocs at distant sandstone cliffs, where a large palace juts from the rocks into the sky.
Behind him, the Mandalorian sits at the edge of her seat.
COBB VANTH
Yup. That's gotta be where he is.
She eagerly reaches for Cobb's bincos.
MANDALORIAN
Can I see?
Cobb passes the binocs to her.
COBB VANTH
(as she looks)
A Mandalorian took over the throne of Jabba the Hutt and is currently establishing his own empire. You know of the Hutts, right?
MANDALORIAN
I've heard stories.
COBB VANTH
So you know how powerful they are. It makes sense that only the strongest Mandalorian warrior could overthrow a Hutt.
MANDALORIAN
It does.
The Mandalorian hands the binocs back to Cobb. She hops off his speeder bike, eagerness and relief coursing through her.
MANDALORIAN
I can't thank you enough... for everything.
COBB VANTH
You're welcome, kid. (worried)
You sure you're gonna be okay on your own? I can come with you...
For a moment it looks like she would consider his offer, but she shakes her head.
MANDALORIAN
This is the way.
(offers handshake)
May our paths cross again someday.
COBB VANTH
(Slowly shakes her hand) Indeed.
(looks up at the palace)
Good luck in there kid. Be safe.
The Mandalorian nods. Cobb revs up his bike, speeds away in a cloud of dust. The Mandalorian watches him disappear.
Slowly she turns to Jabba's palace, taking out a COMLINK CYLINDER.
MANDALORIAN
(speaking into comlink)
BLACK STAR, this is Dragon One, over.
VOICE ON THE COMLINK
(static, child's voice)
This is the BLACK STAR. So happy to hear from you finally! What do you have to report?
MANDALORIAN
(deep breath) I found him.
EXT. PATH TO JABBA THE HUTT'S PALACE - SEVERAL MINUTES LATER 7 The Mandalorian gazes up at the sky as an small but mighty,
old GUN SHIP with a large, faded BLACK STAR on its tail
approaches. It makes an unsteady landing in front of her. A hatch opens. TWO FIGURES emerge.
KI'HAW (13), a slim Mandalorian youth wearing blue-silver armor, and little KOO (6-7ish), a tiny FOUNDLING, no taller than Ki'haw's hip, wearing simple child's clothing and a little Mandalorian helmet.
KOO
(waving) Waka! Waka!
WAKA (MANDALORIAN)
(walking towards them) Koo! Good to see you.
(to Ki'haw)
You let him pilot the ship again?
KI'HAW
He's pretty good at flying now!
WAKA (MANDALORIAN)
Still gotta work on the landing, little one.
She taps KOO on his helmet. He giggles.
Ki'haw looks around at the empty desert surrounding them, confused.
KI'HAW
So...where is he?
Waka turns, points to the cliffs in the distance. Ki'haw holds up a silver SPYGLASS to his visor, peers through, spotting Jabba's palace in the distance.
KI'HAW
That's where he is? Waka, are you sure?
WAKA
Yes. I'm absolutely positive. You ready?
Ki'haw lowers his spyglass.
KI'HAW
I don't like this. Something... doesn't feel right.
WAKA
(heard this before) You're being paranoid again.
KI'HAW
Hey, I'm just listening to my gut...
WAKA
You sure its not your stomach growling?
Koo laughs. Ki'haw kicks at the sand.
KI'HAW
Let's just do this the usual way - one at a time.
WAKA
We agreed we would pledge loyalty to the Mand'alor together! We're this close and now you're freaking out?
KI'HAW
I'm not freaking out! We'll go in one at a time. That way if something
happens...
WAKA
(cuts him off)
If something happens?! What happened to all or nothing? Together or not at all?!
KI'HAW
I'm just saying we should be more careful about this!
WAKA
And I'm saying you should grow up.
KOO
And I'm saying we should vote!
WAKA
What?!
KI'HAW
Vote? Are you serious?!
Waka tilts her head and throws up her arms with an exasperated sigh.
WAKA
Well...It's only fair.
KI'HAW
Ugh, fine.
Ki'haw shoves his spyglass into his utility belt, stands at attention.
KI'HAW
Who votes that we should go to the Mand'alor one at a time?
He raises his hand. Waits. The other two are unmoved. He lowers his hand, defeated.
KI'HAW
Who votes that we should go to the Mand'alor together?
Waka raises her hand. The two slowly turn to KOO. He sheepishly raises his hand, suppressing a giggle.
Waka and Ki'haw glance at each other. Ki'haw sighs.
KI'HAW
All right. Together then!
EXT. PATH TO JABBA THE HUTT'S PALACE - DAY 8
The trio heads up to Jabba's palace on foot. It's a long walk.
EXT. PALACE DOORS - DAY 9
The trio stand before the gargantuan METAL DOOR, unsure of what to do.
KI'HAW
I'd better knock, I guess?
Ki'haw cautiously approaches, hesitates, takes a deep breath, then BANGS loudly on the door.
A long awkward silence.
KI'HAW
I guess there's no one here?
A small HATCH in the gate FLIPS OPEN. A TT-8L/Y7 GATEKEEPER DROID bursts out, screaming in Hutteese. Ki'haw and Waka jump back in surprise, aiming their BLASTERS at it.
They look at each other nervously.
KI'HAW
What do we say?
TT-8L continues to screech, moving its large silver eye towards Waka.
WAKA
Uh umm... Take us, to your leader.
The TT-8L looks over the group one last time, then retracts into the hatch, which slams shut. The gate rumbles open, revealing a pitch-black interior.
Ki'haw and Waka stand back, but Koo giggles, BOOKS IT into the darkness.
WAKA
Koo! Wait!
INT. JABBA'S PALACE HALLWAY - DAY 10
The teens rush after the little child, blasters ready as DARK FIGURES dart through the shadows.
KI'HAW
(looking around)
I don't like this! Koo! Come back!
Koo keeps going. A Gamorrean guard jumps out of the shadows. Koo leaps back startled but studies the Gamorrean curiously.
The guard, noticing the fearless little creature, tilts his head to get a better look.
WAKA
Get back, Gamorrean!
Waka and Ki'haw catch up to Koo. They aim their blasters at the Gamorrean, snapping him out of his calmness. He roars, raising his blade.
WAKA
I said get back!
FENNEC SHAND (O.S.)
Drop your weapons!
Through the shadows emerges FENNEC SHAND, rifle drawn, helmet on, eyes flickering dangerously in the darkness.
FENNEC SHAND
I said, drop your weapons. Now!
Waka and Ki'haw don't comply, fight or flight responses on full alert. Koo's cute voice cuts through the tension.
KOO
A Mandalorian never surrenders. Our strength is in our survival.
Fennec stares at Koo, puzzled. She glances at the other two. They're...they're just kids!
She lowers her rifle and removes her helmet. Waka and Ki'haw lower their weapons, the threat subsiding. Fennec looks over the trio, studying them. She nods.
FENNEC SHAND
Follow me.
INT. PALACE TUNNELS - DAY 11
Fennec leads the trio down a maze of tunnels. Through the dark and smoke, many eyes watch them.
Koo sticks close to Ki'haw's side, holding his hand. Waka's fingers hover over her blasters. They tread carefully down a flight of stairs and into a dimly lit room.
INT. JABBA'S THRONE ROOM - DAY 12
Waka, Ki'haw and Koo scan the room nervously. Snarls, snickers, sniffs, and scoffs emanate from the various creatures and beings around them.
Even the ground beneath them has eyes as unseen animals gaze at them through the floor grates.
The trio are drawn to the center of the room, where a DARK FIGURE sits on a huge stone throne atop a sandstone dais.
The imposing figure leans into the light, revealing green-red MANDALORIAN ARMOR.
It's BOBA FETT.
They stand in awe. They found the Mand'alor!
Fennec takes her place at Boba's right hand side. A Togruta male stands attentively on his left.
FENNEC SHAND
When the guard droid said we had a group of Mandalorians at our door, I was actually worried for a second.
Members of the court laugh. Boba Fett is unmoved.
BOBA FETT
And you should be. It's a grave mistake to underestimate your adversaries.
(leaning forward)
I can see clearly before me, that despite their size and youth, we have some seasoned warriors in our presence.
Boba motions for the group to come closer.
BOBA FETT
What brings you to my palace, my children?
Waka steps cautiously forward.
WAKA
We've been searching for you for many parsecs. We've heard rumors of your ascension - and by Creed, we have traveled far and faced many trials, to find you.
The trio stand at attention - it's clear they've practiced this.
WAKA
Strength is life, for the strong have the right to rule.
KI'HAW
Honor is life, for with no honor one may as well be dead.
KOO
Loyalty is life, for without one's clan one has no purpose.
WAKA
Death is life, one should die as they have lived.
WAKA, KI'HAW, KOO
This is the way! The way of the Mand'alor.
The trio place their left hands over their hearts.
WAKA
We of clan Reptavian, of the Nevarro tribe, pledge our love, our loyalty, and our lives, to you. From this day, to the end of our days. This is the way. My Lord Mand'alor.
KI'HAW
My Lord Mand'alor
KOO
My Lord Mand'alor
The trio bow to Boba. A long silence follows.
Fennec BURSTS INTO LAUGHTER. The rest of the court join her. Rowdy, hysterical, hooting LAUGHTER.
The three Mandalorians glance up, confused.
Boba RISES SWIFTLY from his throne. The laughter DIES. He motions for the trio to rise. They comply.
Slowly, Boba descends from the dais, striding up to the trio.
BOBA FETT
Have you taken the Creed?
KI'HAW
(nervously)
We...we live by the Creed, my Lord, but we have not sworn to it.
BOBA FETT
Why not?
WAKA
We're not of age... (voice breaking)
and... there's no one left to swear us in.
A long, sad pause. Boba sighs. Slowly he removes his helmet, revealing his tattered, scarred face. PITY shines in his eyes.
The three Mandalorians recoil in shock - gasping, speechless.
BOBA FETT
I'm sorry to disappoint you kids, but I am not the Mand'alor.
KI'HAW
(breathless)
You are not Mandalorian?!
BOBA FETT
No. It was my father Jango, who was Mandalorian. He followed the Creed, and taught me well, before he died.
(softer voice)
I understand... being an orphan. The world is cruel and unjust to our kind.
I know better than anyone what you needed to do, to survive.
The members of the court are all taken aback by Boba's tenderness and compassion. They watch him intently.
BOBA FETT
I may not be the Mand'alor, but since you have not sworn to the Creed, I am happy to accept you.
(gesturing to the court)
Here you will find refuge, belonging, and a family of the best warriors in the Galaxy. You have nothing to fear here. In time, your enemies will learn to fear you.
Boba presents his hand to the group.
BOBA FETT
Do you accept?
The members of the court eye the trio intently, holding their breaths.
Slowly Waka RAISES her hand to shake Boba's, but Ki'haw GRABS HER ARM stopping her. Waka glares at Ki'haw, who stands firm.
KI'HAW
We must discuss this ... as a clan.
Boba's lips curve into a sly smile, accepting Ki'haw's caution. He turns back and steps up to his throne.
BOBA FETT
Very well. Take all the time you need. For now, rest here as long as you like. My palace is your palace.
Slowly he slips his helmet back on, leaning back casually on his throne.
BOBA FETT
Rukshia, make sure our honored guests are comfortable. Musicians, play something fun.
The Togruta on his left nods and glides away. The musicians start some fun catchy music. The mood in the room shifts to relaxed and warm.
Soon the whole court is singing along, moving to the tunes.
Rukshia returns with several servants holding luxurious pillows. They place them on the dais and motion for the Mandalorians to sit. They cautiously comply.
A servant offers the group a plate of food. Waka nods. She places the plate on the pillows. It sits untouched.
Twi'lek dancers (not slaves!) move gracefully before the group, their bodies in tune with the music. Koo jumps up and joins them. Awwws, giggles fill the room.
Waka bobs her head to the catchy melodies. Ki'haw is unmoved. He glares at Boba Fett, who slowly nods back.
INT. JABBA'S THRONE ROOM - NIGHT 13
The throne room is silent, still. A few beings and creatures sleep soundly, scattered about. Fennec, Boba and Rukshia are nowhere to be seen.
Waka and Koo sleep peacefully on the pillows.
Ki'haw tiptoes in. He quietly and cautiously moves to Waka. Finding a space on her arm uncovered by armor, he pinches her hard. She wakes up suddenly.
Ki'haw signals her to be silent, to follow him. She nods, tenderly picks up the sleeping Koo. The pair swiftly exit the throne room.
Rukshia emerges from the shadows, watching them leave.
EXT. JABBA'S PALACE GATE - NIGHT 14
The three moons illuminate the rocky landscape, their light reflecting off the large metal door.
Ki'haw paces nervously. Perched on a rock, Waka watches him, a groggy Koo by her side.
KI'HAW
He admitted it himself. He is not the Mand'alor. This is bad.
WAKA
He offered us a home, safety, protection. Why is that bad?
KI'HAW
Remember what Jen Raiya would always say: "If it's too good to be true..."
KOO
It's a lie!
KI'HAW
Right.
WAKA
I swear Ki'haw, you're just so paraoid...
KI'HAW
(thunders)
Stop it! Waka, I hate to have to say this, but you have lost the way.
Koo gasps.
WAKA
What did you just say to me?!
She LEAPS UP, advances towards Ki'haw, who stands firm.
KI'HAW
What were Jen Raiya's l_a_s_t_ Waka stops suddenly. She trembles.
KI'HAW
words?!
What was the last thing our f_a_t_h_e_r_ ever said to us?!
WAKA
(slowly) Find...the Mand'alor.
A sad, heavy pause.
KI'HAW
(voice shaking)
Yes.
Waka is silent for a long while. She hangs her head, defeated.
We h_a_v_e_
KI'HAW
to go.
WAKA
We should wait until morning, and tell Lord Boba Fett ourselves. It's the honorable thing to do.
KI'HAW
I don't think...
BOBA FETT (O.S.)
Can't sleep?
The trio are STARTLED to see Fennec, Boba and Rukshia approaching them. The three huddle close together.
Fennec holds her rifle. Rukshia holds something long, wrapped in fabric. Boba is unarmed.
FENNEC SHAND
Now what are you kids doing up past your bed time?
BOBA FETT
Don't patronize them. I'm sure there's a perfectly good explanation for this.
Waka steps forward.
WAKA
My Lord... I know you have been nothing but kind and generous. But sadly, we have decided...
KI'HAW
To move on. We must find the Mand'alor.
Boba Fett moves slowly forward, stopping uncomfortably close to the group.
BOBA FETT
Do you honestly think that after welcoming you into my home, treating you as one of my own, that I would just let you go...
Ki'haw and Waka's shaky hands hover over their blasters.
BOBA FETT (CONT.)
...without saying a proper goodbye?
The tension breaks. Boba motions to Fennec, who hands a small
bag to Ki'haw. Rukshia unrolls his cloth on the ground revealing brand new weapons - blasters and blades of the highest grade.
Waka examines the weapons. Ki'haw opens the bag - inside are hundreds of credits.
BOBA FETT (CONT.)
This should last you for a while.
KI'HAW
Thank you so much.
BOBA FETT
One more thing...
The three perk up, hanging on to Boba's words.
BOBA FETT
If you truly seek the Mand'alor, you will find him...
(pause) on Sorgan.
Fennec and Rukshia stare at Boba in shock, SURPRISE.
WAKA
Sorgan?
KI'HAW
There's nothing on Sorgan!
BOBA FETT
Do you trust me?
Waka and Ki'haw glance at each other nervously. Koo raises his hand.
Yes!
KOO
BOBA FETT
Then go to Sorgan.
WAKA
How will we know... when we have found the Mand'alor?
BOBA FETT
(firmly) You will know.
Waka and Ki'haw nod. Ki'haw takes Koo's hand. Waka wraps up the weapons and slings them over her shoulder.
WAKA
Thank you. Your generosity will not be forgotten.
(extends her hand) This is the way.
KI'HAW & KOO
This is the way.
Boba slowly and firmly shakes her hand.
BOBA FETT
This is y_o_u_r_ way. Good luck.
The group nods. They turn, make their way down towards the desert. Ki'haw moves close to Waka.
KI'HAW
This seems too good to be true...
WAKA
We have nothing to lose and everything to gain by going. Might as well.
Ki'haw glances at the three adults behind them, watching them leave. Turning back to Waka, he nods, pulling Koo closer.
Fennec leans in towards Boba.
FENNEC SHAND
You sure this is a good idea?
BOBA FETT
(laughing)
You and I both know, he's good with kids.
Boba and Fennec stroll back towards the palace. Rukshia lingers behind, watching the trio grow smaller in the horizon.
EXT. SORGAN COUNTRYSIDE - DAY 15
Sorgan is bright, beautiful. Fields of wildflowers are framed by mighty pine forests. Butterflies and bees flutter around. Animals large and small go about their contented lives.
EXT. SORGAN MARKETPLACE - DAY 16
The marketplace is large, lively, full of colorful, delicious wares. Buyers and sellers haggle. Children run between the booths and stalls. Musicians sing. Livestock wander around...
The beautiful OMERA (30's, a radiant beauty) wanders through the stalls, casually shopping. A young pony-like bordok follows her, quietly, obediently carrying her items.
She stops at a STALL OF BLUE KRILL FARMERS who react with JOY in seeing her. Omera smiles, hugging a few of them, lingering to chat.
EXT. FOREST CLEARING- SORGAN - DAY 17
Rays of the setting sun stream through the pine trees, bathing the forest in warmth.
Omera leads her bordok down a tiny dirt road through the forest.
She reaches a large clearing where a MAN and a GIRL are play- fighting with wooden spears next to a large, brand-new GUN SHIP. Its shiny chrome reflects the trees around it.
Omera grins as she sees her daughter, WINTA (13) practicing spear-fighting with DIN DJARIN (THE MANDALORIAN). Din spots Omera, taken by the beautiful sight of her.
This is not the famed Mandalorian warrior Din Djarin we have come to know.
He is virtually unrecognizable. He wears a loose, colorful robe. His hair is longer and tied back. He has a tanned face and a neatly trimmed beard.
But most shocking of all... he is h_a_p_p_y_._
His distraction proves his undoing as Winta knocks him to the ground with ease. Din laughs and groans.
DIN DJARIN
I yield! I yield!
OMERA
I see that the lessons are going well.
WINTA
(laughing)
Yup!
Winta helps Din up and they wander over to Omera. Winta hugs her. Din pecks her on the cheek.
DIN DJARIN
She's learning fast. She can shoot almost as well as you. Almost.
WINTA
Dad, come on! You said I was better. Din smiles nervously at Omera, turns to Winta.
DIN DJARIN
No one can shoot as well as your mother, at least not on this planet.
(lying) Not even me.
The family laugh, stroll down the road towards a small FARM HOUSE further ahead.
INT. FARM HOUSE - NIGHT 18
A warm, cozy, simple home. The family eats dinner at the kitchen table.
DIN DJARIN
Any news from the outside?
OMERA
Nothing terribly exciting. Senate elections are starting up again. The Rangers of the New Republic broke up a ring of Spice Runners on Yungbrii...
DIN DJARIN
And the Mandalorians?
OMERA
(shaking her head) Nothing.
WINTA
No news is good news, right?
Din sighs, nodding slowly.
OMERA
It's been a long time already. Do you think...
(hopeful)
she won't come for you after all?
DIN DJARIN
(grim)
No. Bo-Katan is an honorable warrior.
She w_i_l_l_
come for me.
WINTA
W_e_ can handle her!
Omera glares at Winta, then raises an eyebrow at Din, who clears his throat, shaking his head.
DIN DJARIN
We went over this Winta. I will face Bo-Katan alone. I will give her what she wants: A fair and honorable fight.
Din grasps Omera's hands tightly, looking deep into her eyes.
DIN DJARIN
Only then, will I be truly free.
INT. BEDROOM - NIGHT 19
Din and Omera lie in bed. Omera is sound asleep, resting her head on Din's chest. Din strokes her hair - deep in thought. He drifts into an uneasy sleep.
DIN DJARIN (V.O)
Don't be afraid. We'll see each other again soon. I promise...
INT. IMPERIAL CRUISER BRIDGE - FLASHBACK 20
DIN DJARIN, CARA DUNE, FENNEC SHAND, KOSKA REEVES, and BO-
KATAN KRYZE watch as a single X-Wing flies off. In the blink of an eye, it vanishes into hyperspace.
Dead imperial officers, storm troopers, bits of Dark Trooper armor litter the floor.
MOFF GIDEON, bloody and unconscious, is sprawled out at Bo- Katan's feet.
Din turns to Bo-Katan, tears streaming down his face. He activates the DARKSABER - the black light from the long blade illuminating his pitiful figure.
DIN DJARIN
(pleading)
If you want to fight me... to kill me
...for this...do it now.
Breathing heavily, Bo-Katan slips off her helmet. Blood runs down her hair and nose. She looks over Din, shaking her head.
BO-KATAN
No. It would not be an honorable fight.
Bo-Katan's gaze drifts from Din, to Fennec, to Cara, back to Din.
BO-KATAN
Go. Leave now.
(firmly)
But know this: The next time I see
you, I w_i_l_l_ mine.
take what is rightfully
DIN DJARIN
(voice shaking) And I...will be ready.
INT. FARMHOUSE BEDROOM - NIGHT - BACK TO PRESENT 21
Din and Omera JERK AWAKE as a LOUD ALARM rings though the house. The pair jump out of bed and rush to its source: a large HOLOPROJECTOR.
Omera turns on the machine. A grainy, static-filled image comes into view. Din frantically adjusts the controls, his fingers leaving marks in the thick dust.
The image of IDADA THE INNKEEPER renders clear.
IDADA
Hello? Hello? Can you hear me?
OMERA
Idada! Yes! We can hear you!
IDADA
Omera! Is your husband with you?
DIN DJARIN
Yes, I'm here.
IDADA
Din! Good! Sorry to bother you so early, but this is urgent!
OMERA
What is it? What's going on?
IDADA
A Mandalorian has just left my inn.
The pair are shocked into silence.
Out of their sight, a worried Winta pokes her head into their room.
Just one?
DIN DJARIN
IDADA
Yes, but he bought enough food for a group. I'm suspect there're more of them. He said he was looking for the Mand'alor. Not the planet, but a person.
Omera and Din stare at each other - dread clear on their faces.
IDADA
Will you two be all right?
OMERA
(trembling voice) Yes...thank you Idada.
IDADA
You're welcome. Let me know if you need anything.
DIN DJARIN
Will do.
The holoprojector powers off. Din breathes in deeply.
DIN DJARIN
It's time.
INT. WINTA'S BEDROOM - NIGHT 22
Winta is fast asleep - or at least she pretends to be. Din sits at her bedside, kisses her on her forehead.
DIN DJARIN
Stay strong, little one.
He gets up, leaves. Winta opens her eyes, hardens her face in determination.
INT. FARM HOUSE - NIGHT 23
Din opens up an intricate wooden wardrobe. Inside is his PURE BESKAR ARMOR - incredibly clean and polished.
QUICK MONTAGE:
-Din expertly puts on his armor. First the black boots over his black padded trousers, then his doublet (brand new and black) Cuisses, faulds, plastron, breastplate, gloves, vambraces, pauldrons - his Mudhorn signet glittering bright.
-The final piece - the dreaded piece - his HELMET. Din stares at it for a long while.
EXT. SORGAN - FOREST CLEARING - DAY 24
The sun rises over the forest - a partly cloudy sky reflects off the gun ship's glistening surface.
Omera and Din stand before the ship. Din is now clean-shaven, his hair cut short, his helmet under his arm. He and Omera gaze at each other, their eyes full of LOVE.
OMERA
I love you.
DIN DJARIN
(smiling sadly) I know.
Din brings up his helmet. He hesitates: pain, guilt clear on his face. Omera places her hands over his.
OMERA
(tenderly)
Remember. After this, you will finally be free.
DIN DJARIN
Yes...
Omera gingerly takes the helmet from his hands. Slowly, she slides it over Din's face, pulling him in close, their foreheads touching.
OMERA
Promise me, you w_i_l_l_
DIN DJARIN
You have my word.
come back to us.
Omera releases Din, steps back.
Before her - before u_s_ - stands our familiar Mandalorian,
albeit newer, refined, - REGAL.
He turns, disappears into his gun ship as Omera watches, her eyes filling with tears.
Din powers up the ship, FLIES OFF into the morning sky.
EXT. SORGAN FOREST - DAY 25
Din lands in a clearing, exits his gun ship. Fully armored and fully armed, he walks into the forest.
Once he's out of view, a small DARK SHAPE runs out of the ship and into the trees.
Din reaches the edge of a small ledge. Looking over, he spies the BLACK STAR in the clearing below.
He takes out his silver spyglass, looks through, spotting Waka, Ki'haw and Koo sitting around a fire. Din turns on his ear piece, faintly able to hear their conversation.
WAKA
For such a primitive planet they make really really good soup.
KI'HAW
I think it's because their food is grown and raised in its natural state, not engineered.
WAKA
I can believe that.
Ki'haw watches as Koo picks flowers near the fire.
KI'HAW
So, whats the plan now?
WAKA
We search every settlement. He can't be hard to find, especially on a
planet like this.
A flock of birds SCREECH, burst from the forest into the sky. The trio JUMP UP. Waka and Ki'haw draw their blasters.
Din points his spyglass towards the disturbance, switching it to thermal mode to see through the thick foliage.
A PETITE FIGURE moves slowly through the trees, pointing a heavy STUN CANNON at the group. He recognizes it immediately.
DIN DJARIN
Oh no!
Waka and Ki'haw move cautiously towards the forest. They can't see anything - the trees are too thick.
WAKA
Who's there?!
No answer. The forest is eerily silent.
A LARGE BLUE CIRCLE - a high powered STUN BAST - rips through the trees into the clearing. Waka and Ki'haw leap out of the way - the blast barely misses Koo.
Waka jumps back up immediately, FIRES at the direction of the blast. She RUNS into the trees.
KI'HAW
(turning to Koo) Get back in the ship!
Koo complies, leaping up the ship's ramp, locking it down. Ki'haw rushes after Waka into the forest.
The two chase the figure through the trees, running hard, fast, quickly catching up despite the thick brush.
Ki'haw takes aim again at the figure and fires. He misses.
EXT. SORGAN MEADOW - DAY 26
Waka and Ki'haw run the figure into a MEADOW dotted with wildflowers.
The sunlight hits the figure - it's Winta, wearing a optical head-mounted display headband, running with difficulty with the large stun cannon in her arms.
Ki'haw leaps forward, grabs Winta, WRESTLES her to the ground. Winta throws off Ki'haw with ease.
She quickly gets up, aims her stun cannon but is overpowered by Waka, who wrestles it away from her.
With a swing of the cannon she swipes Winta in the face, knocking her to the ground.
Waka tosses the cannon off to the side, draws her blasters. Ki'haw gets up, his blaster also drawn at Winta.
KI'HAW
Who are you?!
DIN DJARIN (O.S.)
Stand down!
The pair TWIRL around to see Din marching towards them, blaster drawn.
The two are rendered still, silent at the sight of the mighty MANDALORIAN.
The sun reflects off his pure beskar armor, almost blinding them. His black velvet cape flutters in the breeze...
They know i_n_s_t_a_n_t_l_y_ who he is.
DIN DJARI
Drop your weapons!
Slowly, the two teens comply, placing their blasters at their feet.
DIN DJARIN (CONT'D)
Hands up. On your knees.
They do exactly as he says. Winta stands up. Din gestures to her.
DIN DJARIN
Pick up the weapons, come over here.
Hanging her head, she complies, swinging the stun cannon over her shoulder, picking up the three blasters. She plods over towards Din.
DIN DJARIN (CONT'D)
(fuming)
You are in big trouble, young lady!
WINTA
I was just trying to help.
She plants herself behind him. Din looks over the teen Mandalorians.
DIN DJARIN
Who sent you?
KI'HAW
(nervously) B...B...Boba Fett
DIN DJARIN
Fett? What? Why?!
The pair are still scared speechless.
DIN DJARIN
Answer me!
WAKA
We...we've been searching for you for many parsecs. We've heard rumors of your ascension - and by Creed, we have traveled far, and faced many trials, to find you.
DIN DJARIN
(cautiously) Who are you?
KI'HAW
We are the last of clan Reptavian, sir, of the Nevarro tribe.
DIN DJARIN
Nevarro?
Din looks over the pair closely. He spots the SIGNET of the Nevarro Reptavian on Waka's pauldron.
DIN DJARIN
(sudden realization)
You are Jen Raiya's foundlings?!
WAKA
You knew Jen Raiya?!
KI'HAW
You are of our tribe?!
Din takes a step back, lowering his blaster.
WINTA
Dad, what's going on...?
Before anyone can react, the UNMISTAKABLE sound of JETS roar above them. Everyone looks up to see SEVEN CONTRAILS in the sky getting larger, closer.
Din motions to the teens.
DIN DJARIN
(panicked)
Come here! Get behind me.
The two leap up, run to Din and Winta.
Din raises his blaster as SEVEN MANDALORIANS fly into view. Six of them land, surrounding the group, their weapons drawn.
The seventh and final Mandalorian lands slowly, directly in front of Din. Her freshly painted blue armor, her commanding voice, are instantly recognizable.
BO-KATAN
Din Djarin. It's been a while.
DIN DJARIN
Same to you, Bo-Katan Kryze.
BO-KATAN
You were a hard man to find.
DIN DJARIN
I actually made it easy for you.
Bo-Katan scoffs. She spots the group of teenagers behind him.
BO-KATAN
I see you've been busy! (short laugh)
I remember when you only had one child.
Din tightens his grip on his blaster. The three teens huddle
closer together.
WAKA
(whispers) Who is she?
WINTA
(whispers back)
That's Bo-Katan of clan Kryze. Her sister ruled Mandalore before the purge.
Din advances towards Bo-Katan, cautiously lowering his blaster.
DIN DJARIN
Let's get this over with. The sooner you take it from me, the sooner you leave me forever.
BO-KATAN
Still so impatient and demanding...
Bo-Katan signs a message to her guards. Immediately, three of the Mandalorians fly forward and surround the teens, pointing their weapons at them.
The teens yell in surprise, throw up their hands. Winta drops the guns.
DIN DJARIN
Wait, no! What are you doing?!
BO-KATAN
I'm making this interesting.
DIN DJARIN
Leave them out of this! This is
between you and me, n_o_t_
BO-KATAN
them.
Here's the deal. If you win, you keep the Darksaber and I let you and the kids go.
(slowly)
If I_ win, I take the kids, and y_o_u_
will not see them again until after you have helped me re-conquer Mandalore.
DIN DJARIN
That's n_o_t_ fair.
BO-KATAN
All is fair in love and war.
DIN DJARIN
Why are you doing this?!
BO-KATAN
(thunders)
Because I need you, to w_a_n_t_ The Darksaber means n_o_t_h_i_n_g_
to win! if I just
willingly accept it from you. I will not make that mistake...
(somber) again.
DIN DJARIN
Again...?
The three remaining Mandalorians lower their weapons, come forward. They are clearly here as observers - to witness the outcome of this historic event.
BO-KATAN
(determined)
This time, it will be done the proper way. The Darksaber, and Mandalore, will be rightfully mine. No doubts, no disputes, no disbelievers.
DIN DJARIN
You're really willing to go this far, to risk this much, all for some stupid story?!
Bo-Katan shakes in anger.
BO-KATAN
Stories have power. Stories, inspire people to do great and terrible things, make people believe things
only t_h_e_y_ know to be true.
(slowly) Stories, control.
Bo-Katan points an accusatory finger at Din.
BO-KATAN
Y_o_u_ were willing to die for your
extremist Creed, your "stupid story" until the moment you lost your child. Then you tossed it all away, like trash.
(proudly)
Some of us still have our honor.
Din lowers his blaster in shame. Bo-Katan lowers her hand.
She reaches behind her and swiftly pulls out two large BESKAD BLADES, the ring of pure beskar metal fills the air.
The blades glitter in the sunlight - their intricate mottling patterns blended into the metal clear proof of their immense strength.
BO-KATAN
I challenge you, one warrior to another. Only the strongest, shall rule Mandalore!
She gets into a fighting stance.
BO-KATAN
Draw the weapon.
Din breathes heavily. He slowly holsters his blaster, reaches behind him. He grasps a hilt and pulls it forward, moving into a fighting stance.
With a flick of his thumb he activates the DARKSABER. The blade springs out from the hilt, the brightest object in the entire meadow.
WAKA
(in awe)
He i_s_ the Mand'alor!
All eyes are on the two warriors. Bo-Katan and Din size each other up, egging the other to make the first move.
BO-KATAN
(raises her blades) For Mandalore!
She charges at Din, who stands his ground. Their blades clash in a bright flash of BLINDING LIGHT - the sound is DEAFENING.
The two great warriors are equally matched, trading blows at furious speed. Bo-Katan's blows are harder, swifter, more zealous, while Din has more disciplined steps.
Bo-Katan has the upper hand. She knocks Din to the ground...
WINTA
(helpless)
Dad!
He gets up immediately. Bo-katan continues her relentless fight.
BO-KATAN
Yield! Yield!
Din does not, but he struggles. Bo-Katan knocks him down again. Winta rushes to him, but is held back by the guards.
Its OVER, Bo-Katan readies the FINAL BLOW... KABOOOOOOM!
An EXPLOSION tears through the meadow. Then ANOTHER, and ANOTHER. One goes off next to the teens, knocking out two of the guards.
All eyes look up as the BLACK STAR flies overhead, shooting down at the meadow.
WAKA
Koo!
Two Mandalorian guards jet off to pursue the ship. Waka grabs her comlink.
WAKA
Koo! Be careful. They're coming after you!
Bo-Katan SNAPS out of her distraction and continues to strike Din, but a BLUE STUN BLAST knocks her down unconscious.
Din snaps his head to see Winta had fired from her stun cannon - depleting the charge. Winta waits frantically for the cannon to power up again.
The remaining Mandalorian guard aims his blaster at Winta but is tackled by Ki'haw.
Waka grabs her blasters, shoots at the guard, but her shots bounce harmlessly off the guard's armor.
The guard throws off Ki'haw and aims his blaster at Winta - the cannon powers up, Winta takes him out.
Another guard jets towards them. Din fires his fibercord whip, wrapping around the guard's leg.
Din pulls him down, strikes him with the Darksaber. The weapon can't penetrate the guard's armor. Din kicks him away, Winta takes him out with another ion blast.
DIN DJARIN
Winta, take them to the DAWN!
KI'HAW
(pointing above them) What about Koo!
DIN DJARIN
I'll take care of it, just go!
Din activates his jet pack, flies off. Winta calls to Waka and Ki'haw.
WINTA
Follow me!
The three RUN into the forest.
INT/EXT. THE BLACK STAR GUNSHIP - DAY 27
Little Koo flies the BLACK STAR with ease standing on the pilot's seat. A Mandalorian guard jets in, grabs on to one of the wings, aiming his blaster at Koo.
KOO
I'll try spinning, that's a neat trick.
Koo takes the wheel, turns it sharply, sending the ship into a spiral, throwing the guard off. With difficulty Koo rights the ship.
Another guard jets forward grabbing hold of the wing with one hand, a hand grenade in another.
Din flies in, YANKS the guard from behind, knocking the grenade from the guard's hand - it detonates harmlessly behind them.
INT/EXT. SORGAN SKY/BRIGHT DAWN - DAY 28
Din and the two remaining Mandalorian guards BATTLE it out in the sky.
The two seasoned warriors gain the upper hand over Din, he FALLS THROUGH THE AIR for several seconds before re- activating his jetpack.
Din's glittering gun ship, the BRIGHT DAWN, rises from the clouds. Winta is piloting. Ki'haw and Waka hang on for dear life beside her.
Winta fires the ships guns at the guards - she misses, but drives them away. Din flies towards the ship.
WAKA
Open the hatch.
Winta flips a switch. An alarm goes off.
WINTA
It's not letting me!
KI'HAW
It needs a manual override.
Ki'haw slides from the cockpit into the cargo hold to the side hatch and inputs codes in a keypad, pulling down at a lever with all his strength.
The hatch opens in a BURST of air. Din flies towards it, pursued by the two guards.
Ki'haw takes out his blaster, aims, FIRES at the pursuers, slowing them down. Din slows his acceleration, matching the speed of the BRIGHT DAWN.
He tumbles inside. Ki'haw pulls back the lever, closes the hatch, gasping from his efforts.
INT/EXT. BRIGHT DAWN COCKPIT /BLACK STAR COCKPIT /SPACE - DAY 29 Din RUSHES into the cockpit followed by Ki'haw. Winta leaps
from the pilot's seat as Din takes over.
DIN DJARIN
We need to leave the atmosphere. Hang on!
Din accelerates upwards, followed closely by Koo in the BLACK STAR. The guards jet after them, but the air rapidly thins.
They gasp for breath, their jetpacks sputter - they're forced to retreat back to the planet.
The two ships zip into space, but are confronted by the MANDALORIAN FLEET orbiting Sorgan.
The fleet is a miss-match of several different kinds of ships, all painted unifying Mandalorian colors.
Several FIGHTER SHIPS descend upon the BRIGHT DAWN and BLACK STAR.
DIN DJARIN
We're gonna have to make a jump.
WAKA
What about Koo?! We can't leave him!
DIN DJARIN
We don't have much of a choice!
KI'HAW
No we can't!
WINTA
(calmly)
Have him land on us.
DIN DJARIN
What?!
WINTA
If he lands on us, he'll get stuck on the wings, then we can jump together.
DIN DJARIN
Its worth a shot!
WAKA
(into the comlink)
Koo! You're gonna need to land on us.
KOO
Okie I'll try!
Koo accelerates towards the BRIGHT DAWN, dodging blasts from the Mandalorian fighters.
Koo and Din pilot their ships with difficulty, trying to match speeds, all the while getting hit by blaster fire.
Koo leans on the wheel, accelerating the BLACK STAR in front of the BRIGHT DAWN.
DIN DJARIN
Easy! Easy!
The BRIGHT DAWN flies under the BLACK STAR, accelerates forward, catching it in its wings.
KOO
I did it!
Now!
DIN DJARIN
The BRIGHT DAWN flies into hyperspace, taking the BLACK STAR, leaving the Mandalorian fleet behind.
EXT. SORGAN MEADOW - DAY 30
Bo-Katan lies motionless in the wildflower meadow. She STIRS, so do her guards around her. Slowly she removes her helmet and rubs her head - dazed.
Realization HITS her. She LEAPS up.
BO-KATAN
No!
INT. BRIGHT DAWN COCKPIT / BLACK STAR COCKPIT - DAY 31
Waka speaks gently into her comlink.
WAKA
Slow and steady, Koo.
In the BLACK STAR cockpit, Koo slowly pushes an accelerator, igniting the rockets. He moves forward, but is halted by the BRIGHT DAWN's wings. The BRIGHT DAWN lurches forward.
DIN DJARIN
He's pretty stuck in there.
WAKA
Koo, run a diagnostic. Any mayor damage? Leaks?
Koo presses a button and several lights flash. A reading comes on a screen. Koo peers at it.
KOO
Negative. All clear!
Waka sighs in relief.
KI'HAW
He'll be fine.
WAKA
Good job Koo. Go ahead and get ready for bed. Don't forget your mantras.
Relief flows though the BRIGHT DAWN.
DIN DJARIN
(sighs)
All right kids. Better get some rest while I think of a plan. Go below, Winta will show you where everything is.
WAKA, KI'HAW
Yes, Lord Mand'alor!
Din tilts his head in surprise. Waka and Ki'haw climb down the ladder to the cargo hold. Din turns back to the controls. Winta lingers behind.
WINTA
Dad?
Yes?
DIN DJARIN
WINTA
Can I be a Mandalorian?
DIN DJARIN
(knew this was coming) Absolutely not.
WINTA
Why not? I'm the same age as them and a good enough fighter.
DIN DJARIN
I said no.
WINTA
That's not fair! How come they can be Mandalorian and I can't?!
DIN DJARIN
(thunders)
Because they didn't have a choice!
Winta jumps back in shock. Waka and Ki'haw curiously poke their heads into the cockpit. Din turns to Winta.
DIN DJARIN
Their families are dead! Their tribe, gone! All they have - the only reason they are alive - is the Creed. They did not choose this way of life.
(anger rising)
You have a family, a tribe, a mother who is absolutely worried sick about you right now!
Winta hangs her head - tears welling in her eyes.
DIN DJARIN (CONT'D)
The minute it's safe, I'm sending you back to Sorgan. Do I make myself clear?
WINTA
(sobbing) Yes dad...
She turns away, descending down the ladder into the cargo hold.
INT. BRIGHT DAWN CARGO HOLD 32
Winta fights back tears as she reaches the bottom of the ladder. Waka and Ki'haw cautiously approach her.
WAKA
Miss Winta?
WINTA
(rubbing eyes)
Yes?
WAKA
Well we wanted to ask, to be sure... you are the Mand'alor's daughter right?
KI'HAW
Not his foundling, but his daughter?
WINTA
Yeah, you can say that. Why?
Ki'haw and Waka glance at each other nervously.
WAKA
Well, then that means that...you're our Princess.
KI'HAW
Meaning we're your Sworn Protectors.
Winta is speechless, her bright eyes widen. Ki'haw and Waka get down on their knees, place their left hands on their hearts.
KI'HAW
We of clan Reptavian, of the Nevarro tribe, pledge our love, our loyalty, and our lives, to you.
WAKA
From this day, to the end of our days. This is the way.
KI'HAW
This is the way.
WINTA
(slowly smiling) This is the way.
INT. BRIGHT DAWN COCKPIT - DAY 33
Din hangs his head, exhausted.
DIN DJARIN
Kids...
He fiddles with the controls. He reaches for a lever that has a perfectly round, silver knob. He stops - his fingers hovering over the knob.
A long, sad pause.
Din sighs, pulls the lever forward. He stares off into space, the glittering stars reflecting off his visor.
DIN DJARIN
Grogu...
EXT. NEW JEDI TEMPLE - NIGHT 34
Little GROGU sits on a LILY PAD in a large, calm pond. The warm flickering lights of the NEW JEDI TEMPLE shine behind him in the distance, where a few other younglings, older
Padawans skip about.
Grogu gazes up into the night sky, taking in the stars. In his hand is Din's MYTHOSAUR PENDANT. He looks down from the sky at the pendant, stroking it. A youngling calls to him.
YOUNGLING
Grogu! C'mon Grogu! Master Luke is waiting!
Grogu waves back at the youngling, who runs into the temple. Grogu hides the pendant away in his robes and stands.
He hops from one lily pad to another, jumping onto the shore. He hobbles down the cobblestone path back to the temple.
A shooting star flies overhead.