Mando's voice cut through the silence. "You know them," he stated, his tone implying it was more than a question.

Zara sighed heavily. "They were once part of my pack, before the Empire drove us apart. They became the Full Moon Pack, while we were left as the Crescent Pack. When the Empire finally withdrew its claws, we hoped to reconcile with our old kin, but it never came to pass. The Alpha's son took control after battling his father for the throne." Zara snarled, the pain of her past evident. "And now, all that remains is desire and hatred."

She lifted the Child, marching towards the Razor Crest, her thoughts consumed by the long-standing feud.

Mando followed Zara aboard the Razor Crest, securing the Child in its seat before taking his place in the cockpit. The ship hummed to life, and soon, they were soaring through the sky.

Mando turned to Zara. "Let me remove your collar. You won't be needing it anymore," he offered.

Zara smiled, raking her fingers through her short, dark hair to free the metal band from around her neck. "Thank you," she replied, relief evident in her voice.

Mando's calloused fingers wrapped around the collar's clasp, and a moment of silence passed as the jewelry slid over Zara's neck. She winced as the metal grazed her skin. "Are you hurt?" Mando inquired.

Zara grumbled, "It was meant never to come off unless you had the right frequency."

Mando shook his head in disbelief. "You mean the client couldn't remove it?" he questioned.

Zara shook her head, a grim look in her eyes. "Only his boss could."

Mando's teeth clenched. "He was never there, was he? You were left to rot in a cell as they drained your blood?"

Zara nodded, a wry smile on her face. "Well, actually, he wanted me trained, but I showed the only trainer he sent us that I would never submit, I would always be wild."

Her smile widened, revealing her sharp teeth. "After that, he just had Dr. Pershing take my blood for medical purposes. They never stopped."

She rubbed her arms where the scars crisscrossed her rough skin. Mando dipped his head, his helmet and collar crumbling to pieces. Zara drew a sharp breath. "Are you angry?" she asked, eyeing him cautiously.

"Hmmm, well, who wouldn't be? You were brought to hell, and yet you come back so... soft," Mando mused.

Zara snorted. "Believe me, Mando, I'm far from soft when it comes to those who awaken the wolf's wrath." She smiled again. "You're the only one I can be gentle with, and of course, the Child too."

Mando's heart warmed at her words. "You trust me?" he asked, surprised.

Zara nodded. "More than I thought I ever would. I suppose the Force works in mysterious ways, after all." She tossed her short hair, revealing her sharp jawline and even sharper cheekbones. She was a goddess. "And I'm not very good at finding mates, either."

A calloused hand curled around Mando's helmet, where his chin would be. "I'm sure you wouldn't be disappointed in me, either."

Mando hummed, the small sound making Zara's stomach flutter. "No," was all he said before he lowered his head and released her.

Mando returned to the ship's controls, guiding them through the vast expanse of stars. For once, Zara felt content, the newfound trust and understanding between them giving her a sense of peace she hadn't experienced in a long time. As the Razor Crest soared through the galaxy, both Mando and Zara knew that, together, they could face whatever challenges lay ahead.

And, for the time being, Zara was happy.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

As the sun bathed Nevvaro in its gentle light, the land drank in its warmth, drying the tears of the night. When darkness fell and the moon had absorbed the last remnants of daylight, the werewolves patrolling the rugged terrain, their paws navigating the bubbling black lava, found solace in their duties.

Some of the werewolves, their fur once radiant and luxurious, now found their coats matted and ashen. "Why the hell must we stay here?" one of them growled, voicing the discontent that had been simmering among the pack.

Bang Chhan looked up from the ashen grey carcass he had been devouring, his own fur covered in the evidence of their dire situation. Wiping the blood from his neck, he offered a gruff response, "We remain until Moff Gideon provides us with a new place to call home." With that, he returned to his meager meal, tearing into the dead creature with a ravenous hunger.

A wolf approached him, lean and strong, with rippling muscles beneath his brown fur. "Alpha, you grow weary of following the whims of humans, do you not? We must fight!" he declared, his eyes blazing with the fire of rebellion.

Bang Chhan released a heavy sigh, his voice grave. "I, too, wish to fight, but what can we do? Our pack is merely eight, while his forces number over a hundred. We are no match." As he spoke, he tossed a morsel of food towards the defiant brown wolf's paws. "Eat, Changbin. Your anger will be useless against their might."

Changbin glared at the offering, his frustration evident in his stance. "And what of our pride, Alpha? Must we continue to cower like beaten dogs?" he demanded, his tail lashing in agitation.

"Pride is a luxury we cannot afford," Bang Chhan responded, his voice stern. "We will do what we must to survive until the time comes to strike back."

Changbin's gaze softened as he bowed his head in submission. "Very well, Alpha. I trust in your leadership."

As Changbin began to eat, Bang Chhan watched the pack with a mix of resolve and despair. Their loyalty and strength were unwavering, but in the face of such overwhelming odds, he feared their time was running out.

The thought of Zara, their former packmate, weighed heavily on Bang Chhan's mind as he turned back to his meager meal. If only Zara had stayed with us, he thought with a sigh. Her departure had left a void in the pack, one that he feared could never be filled.

Zara had been more than just a strong fighter. She was cunning, resourceful, and fiercely loyal. Her loss had dealt a heavy blow to their numbers and morale.

Bang Chhan tried to push the thought from his mind as he focused on the task at hand: keeping his pack alive until they could find a way to break free from Moff Gideon's control. But in the quiet moments, when the darkness closed in and the weight of their plight bore down upon him, he couldn't help but wonder what might have been had Zara remained by their side.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

Onboard the Razor Crest, Mando scrolled through the ship's archives, searching for a suitable planet where Zara and the Child could find refuge. "How about this one?" he asked, pointing to a planet named Sorgan.

Zara leaned forward in her seat, peering at the images of lush greenery and vibrant wildlife. "That would be lovely," she said, a genuine smile gracing her features. "I haven't seen living trees in a while, and I haven't hunted prey that wasn't filled with ash and hatred."

Mando nodded, setting their course for Sorgan. "I hope you'll find some peace there," he said, glancing at Zara. "And maybe even a taste of what life was like before the Empire took everything from you."

Zara's gaze met his, her eyes filled with a glimmer of hope. "Thank you, Mando. It's been a long time since I felt anything close to peace. Perhaps Sorgan will be a step in the right direction."

Mando smiled beneath his helmet and set the Razor Crest on course for Sorgan before jumping into hyperspace. "Go and lay down a bit," he advised Zara. "We'll be there soon."

Zara had returned to playing with the Child in her lap. "Hmmm, fine," she responded, "but we need a name for this little one." She held up a finger as Mando began to speak, and he fell silent.

"Really?" she whispered, closing her eyes as she pondered. When she opened them again, she met the Child's brown eyes, and it cooed in response. Zara's face lit up. "I know just what to call you," she murmured, scooping the Child into her arms.

Mando watched the tender moment unfold, a warmth spreading in his chest. "What name have you chosen?" he asked, genuinely curious.

Zara turned to face Mando, carrying the newly-christened Child with her. "His name is Gorgu," she announced. "He says so himself." With a smile, she let the cockpit door slide shut behind her, leaving Mando alone with his thoughts.

The name Gorgu was unusual, but Mando couldn't deny that it fit the little creature in Zara's arms. As the Razor Crest continued its journey towards Sorgan, Mando found himself reflecting on how much his life had changed since he first laid eyes on the Child.

From a solitary bounty hunter to a protector and friend, Mando couldn't help but feel a sense of fulfillment he'd never known before. He only hoped that Sorgan would provide the sanctuary that Zara and Gorgu so desperately needed.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

When the Razor Crest finally reached Sorgan, Zara found herself once again in the cockpit with Gorgu perched comfortably on her lap. The vibrant green planet loomed before them, a breathtaking sight that sent shivers down her spine. "Wow," she breathed, feeling her skin tingle at the sight of the lush landscape.

Mando couldn't help but notice Zara's awestruck expression, a warmth spreading through him beneath his helmet. She was a curious blend of innocence and ferocity—a wild spirit with a heart of gold. He knew that her exterior was as hard as a blade and that she would cut anyone who got too close, but he had managed to find his way into the beast's heart, even if he wasn't quite aware of it himself.

As the Razor Crest descended towards Sorgan's surface, Mando found himself anticipating the adventures that lay ahead for them. With Zara and Gorgu by his side, he was confident that they could overcome any obstacle the galaxy threw their way.

The ship touched down gently, and Zara scooped up Gorgu, placing him in Mando's arms as she strode past him into the hull. She made her way down the ladder and towards the ramp, where she wanted him to follow.

"The Child says here," Mando called out.

Zara pouted but hummed in acknowledgment as she walked towards the cot at the end of the hull, placing the little one at the bed. "Stay here, little one, okay? We're just going to find some lodging. We won't be far," she assured, gently rubbing one of the Child's long ears.

With a final chuckle, Zara turned to Mando, and they stood shoulder to shoulder as the ramp lowered, revealing the lush green surface of Sorgan. Hand in hand, they stepped off the ship, ready to explore their new temporary home.

Just as they were about to set foot on the planet, a coo caught them off guard. Zara spun around to find Gorgu standing at the edge of the ramp, looking up at them innocently.

"Oh, for kriff's sake, come on," Mando grunted, striding down the ramp.

Zara let out a laugh and bent down, allowing the Child to walk at her feet. The three of them made their way into the heart of Sorgan, the lush foliage surrounding them on all sides.

Gorgu toddled along, exploring his new environment with wide-eyed wonder. Mando and Zara couldn't help but smile at the little creature's innocent curiosity. It seemed that even in the midst of their precarious situation, Gorgu could find joy in the simplest things.

As they ventured deeper into the planet's lush landscape, they soon came upon a quaint village nestled amidst the greenery. The cozy atmosphere made Zara feel instantly at home, but the Force was stirring within her, sending tendrils of awareness through her mind. There was someone here, someone she should know.

Mando sensed Zara's unease and glanced over at her, concern etched across his face. "What is it?" he asked.

Zara shook her head, trying to focus on the present. "I'm not sure. I just have this feeling that we're not alone here. Someone is here, someone I'm connected to."

Gorgu toddled between them, oblivious to the tension in the air, his innocent coos punctuating the silence.

Mando nodded, his hand drifting to his blaster. "We should stay alert. If someone is here, we'll find them."

Zara hummed in agreement, and they made their way into the village's common house, finding seats among the patrons. A loth-cat snarled at Gorgu, who squealed and clung to Zara's leg. Zara merely grunted, and the feline quickly retreated, leaving Gorgu to stumble after Zara.

Once seated, Zara placed the Child on her lap while Mando stood at her side, ever vigilant. A woman approached them, wiping her hands on a cloth hung around her waist. "Hey there, travelers," she greeted with warmth. "Welcome to Sorgan. What can I offer you?"

Zara looked up at the woman, taking in her friendly demeanor. "Thank you. We're just looking for a place to stay for a few days," she replied.

Mando nodded. "And information, if you have it."

The woman smiled. "Of course. I can provide both. Let me show you to your rooms, and then we can talk." She led them through the bustling common house and up a flight of stairs, showing them to two cozy, well-furnished rooms. "Make yourselves at home.

Zara stopped short at the door, the woman noticing her hesitation. "Are you alright, miss?" she asked.

Zara merely shook her head, turning back towards the flight of stairs. "Stay here, Mando," she instructed, her breathing coming hard and fast. "Keep Gorgu safe."

She brushed past the stunned woman, reaching the entrance to the cantina and stepping out onto the street. Her senses were on high alert, and she felt a presence behind her. Without hesitation, she dashed into a back alley, her blaster drawn.

Just as she made it around a corner, she felt something heavy land on her back. She grunted, struggling against her assailant, but warm hands grabbed her wrists, twisting them behind her. A familiar voice hissed in her ear, "Nice to see you, White Wolf."

"Cara," Zara huffed, twisting her head to see the woman who had tackled her. Cara's short-cut dark hair was swept to one side, revealing her strong, determined face. Despite the situation, Zara couldn't help but notice that Cara hadn't changed a bit since they last met.

"You haven't changed either, Zara," Cara retorted with a smirk. "But I'm afraid I can't do that just yet. You've been a busy girl, and some people are very interested in having a chat with you."

Zara gritted her teeth, trying to break free from Cara's iron grip. "And what makes you think I'm going to cooperate?"

Cara's grip tightened. "Because you're not stupid, and you know what's good for you. Now, come quietly, and we can do this the easy way."

A familiar voice cut through the tension, and Zara smiled, picking up Mando's scent. "Now let go of my partner, or I will shoot you," he said, a hint of danger in his tone.

Cara hissed, "You got a new partner, I see. How disappointing." She reluctantly released Zara, who quickly got to her feet, stretching her arms.

"You okay?" Mando asked, concern etched on his face, the Child safely nestled in his arms.

Zara chuckled. "What, never been tackled before? It doesn't hurt that bad." She turned to face Cara, whose hands were raised in a gesture of surrender.

"I'm really sorry it had to be like this," Zara said, "but come with us. I'm sure the people who want to see me can wait."

Cara let out an exasperated sigh, blowing a stray strand of hair out of her face. "Probably, they can't," she muttered, "but fine."

Despite her frustration, Cara knew better than to argue with Zara and Mando. They were a formidable team, and the last thing she wanted was to end up on the wrong side of their blasters.

Zara smiled triumphantly, linking arms with Mando as they followed Cara out of the alley. "I knew you'd see things my way," she said, a playful glint in her eye.

Cara rolled her eyes but couldn't help the hint of a smile tugging at her lips. "Always so stubborn," she muttered under her breath, leading them towards their mysterious destination.

They returned to the common house, and Cara poured herself a cup of spotchka, the warm, spicy beverage a familiar comfort. As they settled in, Zara asked, "So, you're still a soldier for the Rebellion?"

Cara shook her head, taking a sip of her spotchka. "No, I stopped being interested when we were setting detonators and picking targets. I never signed up for that kind of thing."

Zara nodded, understanding the toll such actions could take on a person. "I see. So, what brings you to Sorgan?"

Cara hesitated, glancing around the bustling cantina before leaning in closer. "I'm on a mission, but it's not for the Rebellion. It's a personal matter. I'm searching for someone who can help me with something important."

Zara raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "And you thought I could help?"

Cara shrugged nonchalantly. "You're here to lay low, aren't you? This mission isn't that kind of 'lay low' business, but it'll help you get those Imperial dogs off your back."

Zara stiffened at the mention of the Empire. Cara hummed, glancing between Zara and Mando, then at the Child. "Don't worry, the line stays shut. Just you, me, and Mando. The kid can stay with a friend of mine in a neighboring krill farming village."

Zara's tension eased slightly, but she was still wary. "What's the mission, then? What do you need us to do?"

Cara leaned in even closer, her voice low. "We're going to infiltrate an Imperial outpost on Sorgan. There's someone being held there who's important to me. I need your help to get them out."

Mando's grip on the Child tightened as he listened intently. "Sounds risky," he murmured.

Cara nodded. "It is. But I trust you both, and I wouldn't ask if I didn't think you could handle it."

"Who's going to protect Gorgu?" Zara asked, her voice steady but her eyes betraying her concern.

Mando turned to face her, his resolve unwavering. He was ready to support her decision, whatever it may be.

Cara smiled reassuringly. "The woman's name is Omera, and her kid, Winta, will make a great playmate for Gorgu here."

Zara considered Cara's words for a moment before draining the last of her spotchka. "Only if you'll have me, of course. I'll add security to their village with a few of my fellow exes."

Cara's smile widened. "That's a deal. We'll make sure Gorgu and the others are safe while we're away."

With the plan set, the trio began to discuss the details of their infiltration mission, the fate of Omera and Winta heavy on their minds.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

When they arrived at the krill farming village, they were surprised to find a group of pirates surrounding it. Zara's blood ran cold when she spotted their leader, Hongjoong, staring back at her with warm, chocolate brown eyes.

"Darling," he called out, making his way towards her, but Mando quickly intercepted him, firing a shot that grazed his leg. Instantly, the rest of the pirates aimed their blasters at Mando.

Zara sighed and shared a knowing look with Cara. "They're the security detail?"

Cara nodded. "You know them. I know that. Don't worry, though. ATEEZ is strong."

The tension in the air was palpable, but Zara couldn't help but smirk at the irony of their situation. "I suppose it's better than dealing with Imperials, right?" she joked, trying to diffuse the situation.

Hongjoong let out a soft chuckle, still tending to the graze on his leg. "Still the same humor, darling. Now, please do something about your knight in shining armor," he said, nodding towards Mando, who remained alert with his blaster drawn.

"Mando," Zara called. The Mandalorian turned his head instinctively towards her, the Child cooing in his arms.

Hongjoong raised an eyebrow at the Child. "You got a kid now?" he asked, his voice tinged with both surprise and sorrow.

Zara laughed, shaking her head. "No, no, no. He's just a charge."

Mando slowly lowered his blaster, though he kept a wary eye on the pirates. "We're here for Cara's mission," he stated, his voice firm.

Hongjoong glanced between Zara, Cara, and Mando, his expression unreadable. Finally, he sighed and gestured for his crew to lower their blasters. "Fine, let's hear it."