Night had settled over Canto Bight in a haze of gold lights and restless noise.

From a distance, the city looked elegant—glittering casinos lining the coast, polished towers reflecting against dark ocean water, music drifting through crowded streets packed with wealthy tourists and off-world elites. But beneath the glamour, tension coiled through the air like a wire pulled too tight.

People were watching each other too closely.

Stormtroopers patrolled in pairs near the main promenades, their white armor stark against the warm glow of the city. Conversations dipped whenever they passed. Doors shut faster. Eyes lingered longer than they should before quickly looking away.

Something was happening.

No one seemed willing to say what.

Inside one of the upper-level casinos, the atmosphere was no better. Laughter sounded forced. Sabacc cards snapped sharply against tables. Every few minutes, someone glanced toward the entrance as if expecting trouble to walk through it at any second.

Rumors moved faster than the tide here.

An Imperial inspection.

A Rebel contact hiding in the city.

An execution.

A hunt.

Everyone had heard a different version, but they all agreed on one thing—

Canto Bight was not safe tonight.

Near the massive windows overlooking the coast, a figure in dark clothing paused briefly, gaze drifting over the crowded floor below. Across the room, another patron noticed… then quickly looked away, suddenly far more interested in their drink.

Outside, waves crashed softly against the shoreline.

And somewhere deeper in the city, hidden beneath the music and luxury, fear waited for something to finally reveal itself.