Han peered in close to the small flickering hologram of General Dodonna as it stood contemplatively on the table before him. Lyrkk sat opposite him, Chewbacca and Lando stood behind, and Quolle sat beside him. Fifty rugged men and women stood all around, stone quiet, awaiting the General's words.
"This is a very unfortunate turn of events," said the General after some consideration. "We have spent much time calculating this attack.
"General, you know Chewie and I will help," Han said. "Lando thinks he can round up some smugglers and mercenaries to help us..."
"Whoa," Lando interrupted. "I said I would try."
"That's a fair enough offer," Dodonna said. "I've just received word from Captain Skywalker and Princess Leia. They are flying a stolen imperial ship straight to Coruscant to aid you."
"Are you sure that's a good idea?" Han asked.
"As long as the imperials aren't expecting an attack there will be no reason to stop them. It's our only chance of getting them in before the fleet arrives."
"What about the Princess? Wouldn't she be safer somewhere else?"
Dodonna sighed. "She does what she wants to do, Captain Solo. Calrissian, when you make contact with the smugglers try to purchase some big guns from them. Solo, I'm putting you in charge of the assault team until the Princess arrives. Agent Feryk will help you put together a plan. He knows more about the imperial palace than some of the guards. Contact me when the Princess and Skywalker arrive. May the Force be with you."
Dodonna fizzled out, giving way to the immediate chatter of the impatient and worried soldiers. Lando placed his hand on Han's shoulder and leaned in. "If I don't meet you back here, I'll meet you at the palace," Lando said and quietly slipped out of the room before Han could ask any questions.
