Beep Beep Beep, R3 loomed over Wyb's head who was sleeping in the farmhouse's spare bedroom. Wyb groaned, pulling the blanket over his head. Normally, R3's antics didn't bother him—but this morning was different. His head was still buzzing from the wedding celebration, and he'd barely made it to bed a few hours ago.
Beep!, R3 persisted. One of his front compartments clicked open, and a mechanical claw yanked the blanket off Wyb.
"R3!" Wyb protested sitting up too fast causing the room to spin. He clutched his head. "Oh…."
R3 chirped, unfazed, and rolled toward Wyb's pilot jacket, where the hologram receiver blinked. There was a message.
Wyb staggered over to the receiver and hit play— a scrambled image of Soni flickered in the palm of his hand:
"Wyb… it's Soni—"
Her voice was shaky, laced with fear, and her face blurred with static.
"If you get this… alert the NRI… Tatooine is compromised—"
A sharp crack of blaster fire cut through the transmission, making Wyb flinch. He gripped the receiver tightly, staring helplessly at the flickering hologram.
"We need reinforcements. Any—please hurry—they've got us—"
The message cut off abruptly. R3 let out a low, mournful hum, his dome swiveling toward Wyb trying to comfort him.
"R3, send this to Captain Teva," Wyb ordered. No matter what it took, he was going to help Soni.
Wyb finished dressing and strapped his holster to his waist when R3 beeped with an incoming call from Captain Teva. The droid projected the hologram across from Wyb, showing Captain Carson Teva dressed in his pilot jumpsuit. His expression was grave, and his usual calm demeanor was absent.
"Wyb," Teva greeted, his voice steady "I got your message. We enhanced and analyzed the footage and found Nihil marking within the walls the message was sent from."
"Nihil? Wolf and I had an encounter with them before my current assignment," Wyb added.
"You're not going to like this but we've hit a snag."
Wyb's heart sank as he braced for the bad news. "Snag?"
Teva sighed, looking over his shoulder before meeting Wyb's gaze. "We can't act without Senate approval, especially after General Syndulla's stunt in Seatos."
"That was five years ago, Soni and her NRI agents are in trouble now!"
"The situation on Tatooine has to be evaluated, and with the Nihil involvement, it's a higher-tier decision. You know how it goes," Teva reluctantly replied.
Wyb's stomach twisted. "You're telling me Soni and the other agents on their own until the Senate gives the go-ahead?"
"I'm afraid so," Teva confirmed, his tone apologetic but firm. "The last thing we need is to escalate this and make their situation worse."
Wyb clenched his fists, his frustration mounting. "I can't do that."
Teva's expression darkened with concern. "Wyb, I get it. But you can't go alone. The Nihil are unpredictable, and if—"
"He won't be alone," Kyla appeared in the door frame of the room. She had been passing by in the hallway when she caught the conversation.
"Ambassador Vancil," Teva greeted her. "This is not a diplomatic mission it's–"
"I thank you for your warning, captain. I promise you I do not take this lightly. But if our new republic agents are in trouble I am required to act according to the oath I took when appointed ambassador."
Wyb felt a rush of hope at Kyla's statement. Between the two of them he knew Soni had a chance.
Teva exhaled sharply, clearly torn. "Just stay in contact, alright? I'll do what I can from this side to push through for an approval, but I can't promise anything."
"Understood," Wyb said as the call cut out. He moved toward the door and looked Kyla in the eye. "You sure about this?"
"Wyb, I am not about to leave new republic agents to fend for themselves at the hands of pirates," She said "Do you have any contacts on Tatooine?"
"I do…but I don't know if they are willing to help."
R3 beeped once, the droid seemingly eager to get moving.
"Well, we'll figure it out as we go. I'll call the Senator of Bespin as well as Leia Organa. Perhaps they can push through the approval while we make our way there."
"Sounds good to me. Let's go, R3," Wyb said as they made their way toward the ship.
"Fett is vengeful but he's a man of his word. He'll keep his promise."
Wyb's mind raced with the last words his mother said to him as Kyla and him left the farm for Tatooine. He hadn't been to the planet since he was fourteen. It was the last time he had flown with Lenore before he entered the New Republic Naval academy. As he adjusted the controls of the pilot console he wondered if Peli Motto who he was, or if he would have better luck seeking out Fennec Shand.
"How'd it go?" Wyb asked as Kyla took the copilot seat. She had changed into some pants and a shirt Lenore had lent her.
"Well Senator Organa is out of reach dealing with something in the mid rim, and the Senator of Bespin was much less supportive than Captain Teva. He mentioned the term 'administrative leave'" She sighed.
"I'm sorry, I know you're in a lot of hot water, especially after Mandalore. When we touch down at Peli's I'll look for accommodations for you while I handle this," Wyb said as he took the ship out of hyper speed.
"Accommodations?" Kyla frowned. "Wyb, I'm not some fragile Core politician. I grew up in the Outer Rim, remember? During the Civil War, might I add. Trust me. I can help you."
"I do trust you," Wyb reassured her. "It's just I don't want you to get hurt physically or professionally. You're one of the good ones… a lot of people are counting on you."
Kyla smiled at his concern and she reached to take his hand, "So are you."
Beep beep beep, R3 interjected reminding them that he was also ready to help. The two smiled as they entered the atmosphere of Tatooine.
"Look at that relic," Pelo said to her droids as she gazed at the VCX-100 landing in her shop. "But a customer's a customer."
The ship landed as her droids scurried under the vessel to begin assessing what services were needed. As the ramp lowered she flipped her collar up and approached her potential customer figuring she could upcharge by 20% with the ship being out of production for some time.
"Greetings travelers!" Peli greeted Wyb and Kyla with R3 behind them. "Welcome to my humble abode. What's a young couple like you doing in these parts of the Rim? Honeymoon?"
Beep beep beep, R3 laughed and told Peli who he was. He knew the woman would never forget a droid, but since Prisa had rebuilt him he didn't expect her to recognize him from appearances.
"R3? I'd know that attitude anywhere." Peli chuckled but then narrowed her eyes at Wyb.
Beep Beep beep, R3 confirmed and twirled around showing her his newly built body.
"My god what happened to you? Did a ten year old put you together? Shame. You should've come straight to me. But I'm glad to see you got some sense and dumped those Tersus. They bring nothing but trouble to anyone they cross paths with," Peli crossed her arms.
"Hello," Kyla began. "I'm Kyla Vancil, and this is Wyb Tersu."
"Wait a minute... Don't tell me—you're that scrawny brat from years ago! What was it? Sevvet gang trouble? Nearly got me scrapped!"
"Sevvets?" Kyla asked confusedly and then refocused. "Peli Motto, the new republic needs your help."
"Sorry sister," Peli scoffed and then turned back to her droids and whistled for them to stop service. "I'm an independent, don't get caught up in any political shenanigans."
"Then we need your help," Wyb added.
"Oh no, last time I helped a Tersu I lost two speeders," Peli replied.
"Please, we can pay 2000 New republic credits for your assistance," Kyla responded. Wyb took her by the arm and shook his head. He didn't want her to make promises she couldn't keep, especially on Tatooine. "All we need is you to watch our ship and point us in the direction of hiring some local help."
"Local help huh? What kind?"
Kyla looked to Wyb uncertain how to proceed.
"Fennec Shand," Wyb replied.
"Ha…from what I hear you don't find her, she finds you, and when she does….well, hope all your affairs are in order, if you catch my drift,"Peli retorted.
"It's a matter of life and death," Kyla explained. "You just need to point us in the right direction."
Peli scratched her chin and looked over to R3 who beeped with a plea for help. Peli had always had a soft stop for droids and she couldn't refuse the droid's request. "Alright. You head yourselves to Mos Espa casino, used to be Garsa Fwip's Sanctuary before the Pyke Feud, she'll be there. But leave this little one with me. The least I could do is fix those front panels and restore some of the chrome molding."
"Thanks Peli," Wyb nodded and headed out toward the transport hub.
"You're full of surprises Wyb Tersu," Kyla remarked as they entered the casino, her voice barely rising above the hum of laughter and chatter. The place had once been a high-end destination, with sleek architecture and grand chandeliers. But now, the walls were scarred from an explosion, and makeshift support beams propped up the ceiling. Despite the damage, the clientele didn't seem deterred—they were gambling, drinking, dancing, and making deals in the shadowy corners of the room. "You'll have to tell me about the Sevvets once we're done with this mission."
Wyb didn't respond, his eyes scanning the crowd with a razor-sharp focus. Kyla could see the tension in his posture—his gaze hard, eyes narrowing as he searched for the infamous assassin. His intensity would likely draw unwanted attention, and she couldn't help but feel concerned.
She walked toward the bar.
"Kyla no," Wyb followed her, keeping his voice low. "We need to stay sharp."
"I'm aware," she replied with a wry smile, turning to order. "Two waters, please."
The Aqualish bartender sneered at her request.
"Ugh narrr! Getut'raka, outlander druk'ta!" he bellowed, his watery voice thick with disdain as he shooed Kyla away, sending her stumbling back into Wyb's arms.
"Sorry," Wyb murmured, steadying her, his hand immediately grabbing hers. "Let's move."
"Hurr-wurra! Yip yap naraka pesh, younglings wuh na shoop," the bartender muttered under his breath. His eyes never left them as he continued washing dirty glasses, his words sharp like the sting of a slap.
"Keep close," Wyb said, his hand tightening around Kyla's as he led her through the casino.
She squeezed his hand in return, silently grateful for the steadiness he offered in the chaos of the casino. "Any sign of her?" she asked.
Wyb's eyes swept the room again, this time settling on a familiar face in the corner at the card table. He caught her eye—a woman with striking poise, her expression unreadable as she counted her winnings.
Fennec Shand.
Without a word, Wyb released Kyla's hand and began walking toward the table, the crowd parting just enough to make space.
"Well, fellas, I have to say your luck hasn't improved," Fennec said, her tone playful but cool as she scooped up a handful of credits. Her gaze shifted subtly to Wyb, her lips curling into a smile. "You're a bit young for me, handsome, but pull up a chair. I enjoy having something nice to look at."
"Fennec Shand," Wyb greeted and took a seat next to her. Fennec grinned at the sound of her name.
"I see you know my name, I'd ask yours, but in my line of work it would be a waste of time. No offense," she smirked and reshuffled the cards in her hands and held them out for Wyb to cut them. He did and placed them back in her palm. "Hope I'm not making your girlfriend back there jealous."
"We need your help," Kyla interjected and walked over. Fennec looked her up and down and then back to Wyb.
"Give us the table," Fennec said to the other players and tilted her head as Kyla sat across from her. "I have to warn you, my prices are high now that I have a day job."
"Your Fett's right hand," Wyb acknowledged. "We've got a situation that may be of interest to him."
"Is that right? Tell me and I'll let you know if it's worth disturbing the mighty daimyo," Fennec placed the cards down on the table and crossed her arms.
"We have a team of NRI agents being helped captive by Nihil Pirates here on Tatooine," Wyb began.
"That's a New Republic matter isn't it?"
"For now until the Nihil start moving in on Mos Espa territory," Wyb countered.
"They'll have a hard time accomplishing that with our crew," Fennec brushed off the statement nonchalantly.
"Fennec, It's me…Wyb Tersu," Wyb revealed. Fennec looked puzzled by the name. "Years ago, you helped me and my mother. We were escorting Din Djarin when a clan of Sevvets attacked us."
"Right…the ex-imp. How is she? Mando always had a soft spot for her," Fennec chuckled, finally recognizing Wyb.
"Please, this is important," Kyla added. "Time is of the essence. If we don't rescue those agents, Tatooine will become vulnerable to imperial cells and piracy."
Fennec laughed and looked around the casino and raised her arms to display that the city was already under such threats. Kyla shook her head in frustration. She was not faring well as she had hoped in the armpit of the galaxy. Perhaps she was more affected by the Core World than she realized.
"You can only fight for so long," Wyb spoke. "Your numbers will dwindle, and your weapons will malfunction. The longer this cohort exists and builds its present the bigger threat it becomes."
"Alright," Fennec nodded. "It's been a slow day. Could use a bit of a distraction. What's the new republic offering in return for our independent services?"
Wyb looked at Kyla. Credits would work in this situation. Boba Fett had no need for additional credits, especially republic ones. Kyla took a deep breath and stared directly at Fennec.
"This is not an authorized republic extraction. I have a connection to the CEC. I can make arrangements for a secure line of supply deliveries for two weeks, anything you need," Kyla said confidently.
"That's a big promise, hope you can keep it," Fennec said and stood. "Alright, let's go talk to the boss."
Fennec Shand led Wyb and Kyla through the dim corridors of the palace, the air growing cooler as the outside noise of Mos Espa faded. They reached the entrance to the throne room, where she stopped and turned to them.
"This way," Fennec said, her tone brooking no argument. She approached the throne, where Boba Fett sat, arms resting casually on the stone-carved armrests. His helmet was in place, its inscrutable T-visor fixed on them as they approached.
"Fennec," Fett greeted. "Out playing the casino again? How'd you make out?"
Fennec smirked. "Better than I thought. Brought you something." She motioned toward Wyb and Kyla and leaned against the throne's armrest. "These two."
Boba shifted slightly, his attention settling on the pair. "Speak."
Kyla stepped forward, attempting a formal bow. "Greetings, oh mighty Daimyo."
Boba raised a gloved hand, cutting her off. "Speak plainly, girl. I haven't got all day for pleasantries."
Straightening, Kyla nodded quickly. "I'm Kyla Vancil, and this is Wyb Tersu. We come to ask for your assistance in rescuing a crew of NRI agents who've been taken by the Nihil Pirate crew. They're here in Mos Espa."
Boba leaned back slightly, his voice cool. "NRI…why come to me? Why not call the New Republic?"
Kyla pressed on, her voice steady. "We have. Unfortunately they've decided this matter must be discussed by a committee before proceeding. I'm from Bepsin. I know what you're capable of. But what I'm more aware of is how you've done right by your citizens. For your help we can offer you a direct supply line through my connections with the CEC for two weeks—no Republic interference, no checkpoints."
Boba's helmet tilted slightly, his tone edged with amusement. "Sounds like a fancy way of saying you're involved in smuggling, my dear. I'm aware of the Nihil but not concerned."
Wyb stepped forward, his jaw tight. "You should be."
"This is the Outer Rim. We hold our own," Boba's helmet tilted again as he regarded Wyb, a trace of amusement in his tone. "Tersu... Your mother is banned from this part of the Rim, and it seems you're racing to join her."
Wyb stared back, his expression firm. "This isn't about her, Fett. It's about the Nihil. They're not just here to stir up trouble—they're making moves, and you're in their way. Help us take them out, and we both win."
Fett looked to Fennec for her opinion. She shrugged unmoved by the request.
"You wear Mandalorian armor! Don't you follow anything from their creed? Aren't you bound by honor to help those in need?"
"You've got me confused with your friend Djarin," Fett rebuked and muttered to Fennec, "Just like a Tersu. Demanding and disrespectful."
Before Wyb could respond, a thunderous explosion shook the palace. Dust rained from the ceiling as alarms sounded.
Fennec instantly on the move, blaster in hand. "It came from the gates," she snapped.
"Stay here," Fett ordered, striding toward the exit.
Wyb and Kyla exchanged a quick look and followed, ignoring the order.
Outside, thick smoke curled through a gaping hole in the gates. The bodies of Fett's guards lay scattered across the ground. Fennec barked commands into her commlink as the distant hum of engines grew louder as the medics and additional patrol approached.
Boba turned to Kyla, his tone sharp. "A month of shipments no less. That's the price for my help."
Kyla nodded quickly. "Done."
Fett pointed to Wyb. "You're coming with me. We're going to find your agents and settle this. Now."
Wyb squared his shoulders, his voice steady. "This is the way."
Fett inclined his head slightly, in agreement,"This is the way."
Without another word, Fett walked toward the smoking gates with Fennec at his side preparing for their departure. Kyla nudged Wyb, her face a mix of curiosity and concern. "Be careful."
Wyb's gaze remained forward, his tone clipped. "Won't matter if you can't deliver on that promise."