Han presents the Falcon’s flank to the TIE and concentrates on keeping it presented. For nearly two minutes, the TIE darts in and out, harassing the Falcon with near-misses. The TIE keeps Han so busy piloting the Falcon and dodging laser cannon bursts that he cannon find the time to target properly on his enemy.
Chewbacca’s damage control display glitters like a casino on Ord Mantell. Each light demands his immediate attention. Han doubts that the TIE can be in better shape – he has also landed several near-misses, which have to be taking their toll on the unshielded craft.
As Han brings the Falcon around to face another pass, the TIE surprises him by retreating out of range. Its silhouette fades to a fireprick, then to a pinpoint. Within moments, it shows only on the flight computer.
“We scared him off, Chewie!” Han exclaims.
As if correcting him, the vast blackness ahead blossoms into a storm of turbolaser blasts. Han drops his gazel his head aches as though he has just witnessed a star going nova. When his vision clears, Han wishes that he had – the flight computer shows the Eradicator has just reached maximum firing range!
“Eeeeroogh,” Chewbacca suggests.
“Good idea,” Han agrees. “I’ve always wanted to explore a good set of planetary rings.”