A sentient species inhabited the underdeveloped Outer Rim Territories planet of Escalan. The native species lacked the ability to communicate using basic. Around 8 BBY to 2 BBY, the smuggler known as Han Solo found himself stranded on this world after being shot by the bounty hunter named Greedo. Two younger members of the species then escorted him to Doctor Aber, who, despite her limited understanding of human anatomy, endeavored to save his life. A week later, Solo regained consciousness, prompting Aber to summon Elder Sy'Son for a visit. Accompanied by another individual, Sy'Son arrived, and the doctor guided them to Solo, informing them that he had uttered what she perceived as peculiar words, identifying himself as Han Solo.
Later, Solo sought a drink but encountered difficulty communicating with the bartender due to his unfamiliarity with the local language. Subsequently, he attempted to acquire a starship to depart from the planet and rescue his friend Chewbacca from execution by the Benelex Marshal Service, but his efforts were thwarted by the locals' inability to comprehend him. At that moment, a merchant who seemed to be fluent in basic informed Solo that he possessed a ship. Upon reaching the vessel, the merchant explained to Solo that assisting strangers was ingrained in their culture. As they departed Escalan, Solo attempted to express his gratitude to the merchant, only to discover that he did not actually speak basic. In response, Solo reluctantly drew his blaster and commandeered the merchant's ship, utilizing it to rescue Chewbacca, Maz Kanata, and Phaedra from Gulhadar. After they boarded the ship, Solo once again thanked the merchant for being able to use his ship, and the merchant responded. Phaedra inquired about the merchant's words, to which Solo admitted he had no understanding of what was said.