Dryanta growled softly and nudged Chewbacca’s shoulder.

[You know I’ll come cousin, whenever you need me. I know what a life debt means.]

Shyriiwook had never sounded quite so gentle to Leia’s ears. Now, as the Wookiee family discussed Han’s rescue, she wished she’d made more of an effort to learn it.

Chewie’s response to Dryanta was forceful, and loud. They hugged then, as only Wookiees can, as if one was trying to squeeze the other to death.

“Threepio,” she whispered. “What did he say?”

“He said General Solo is his best friend, Mistress Leia. That’s the reason they’re going.”

July: Rescue

Baklek Base was near.  Luke gave the halt signal to his elite strike team.  Ben had been allowed to come, so he wanted some Force-assisted recon before proceeding.

“What do you think, Dad?” came the eager question over his shoulder.

“Chewbacca’s intel was good,” Luke said softly.  “A lot of slaves are still being held here.”

“Not for long,” was Ben’s confident answer. 

“Not for long,” Luke echoed, facing the rest of the group.  “Pathfinders, Operation Castilus is a go.”

In dagger formation, they moved stealthily towards the building. 

“Time to rescue some Wookiees,” Luke muttered, breaking into a run.