Chapter Text
The dense foliage of Endor enveloped Leia and Lando in a vibrant green embrace, the lush vegetation stretching endlessly in all directions. Towering trees, their trunks thick with moss and vines, loomed overhead, their canopies filtering sunlight into a mesmerizing dance of shadows and light upon the forest floor.
Each step through the undergrowth was a delicate negotiation, the uneven terrain demanding their full attention. Fallen branches and tangled roots seemed to conspire against them, creating obstacles that required careful navigation. Yet Leia moved with a grace due to years of training and experience on Alderaan, alongside her parents and teachers, her every movement purposeful and sure-footed.
The dense foliage of Endor enveloped Leia and Lando, the verdant canopy creating a serene yet mysterious atmosphere. As they ventured deeper into the forest, Leia's determination propelled her forward, her eyes scanning the surroundings for any signs of their objective. Lando moved beside her with fluidity, showing familiarity with such environments, his gaze sharp and vigilant.
Amidst the symphony of life that surrounded them, the rustle of leaves and the distant calls of birds filled the air with a sense of vitality. Shafts of sunlight pierced through the thick foliage, casting dappled patterns of light and shadow on the forest floor, creating a mesmerizing interplay of colors and textures.
Suddenly, Leia's foot snagged on a hidden vine, and she stumbled, a sharp jolt of pain shooting up her leg as her ankle twisted awkwardly. A soft whimper escaped her lips, a mixture of surprise and discomfort, shattering the tranquility of the moment.
Lando's head snapped up at the noise, concern etching his features.
“_ Leia!”; He exclaimed, rushing to her side. His hands were on her in an instant, supporting her before she could fall to the ground.
Leia winced, trying to put on a brave face despite the throbbing pain in her ankle.
“_ I'm fine.”; She said through gritted teeth, attempting to pull away from his grip. But Lando held her steady, his brow furrowed with worry.
“_ You're not fine, Princess.”; He said, his voice firm but gentle. “Let me take a look.”
Leia's pride flared, but the pain was undeniable.
She reluctantly leaned against him, her cheeks flushing with a mix of embarrassment and frustration.
“_ It's just a twist.”; She muttered. “We need to keep moving.”
But Lando wasn't having it.
He noticed the slight hitch in her step, the way she favored her uninjured foot as she tried to step forward.
“_ Stubborn as ever, I see.”; He said, a teasing lilt to his voice. “You're going to make it worse if you keep walking on it.”
Leia glared at him, her cheeks flushing slightly.
“_ I said I'm fine, Calrissian.”; He raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at his lips.
“_ And I say you're being as hard-headed as a Wookiee.”; Before she could protest, Lando moved swiftly, his hands gentle yet firm as he supported her weight.
“_ Let me help.”; He insisted, his voice softening. “It won't do any good if you can't walk by the time we get to the rendezvous point.”
Leia wanted to argue, to push him away and prove she didn't need his help. But the pain in her ankle and the sincerity in his eyes made her relent, albeit begrudgingly.
“_ Fine.”; She muttered, trying to ignore the heat rising to her cheeks. “But only because we can't afford any delays.”
Lando chuckled, his grip steady as he helped her over a particularly rough patch of ground.
“_ You know, Princess, you could just admit you enjoy my company.”; Leia scoffed, though the corners of her mouth twitched upwards.
“_ In your dreams, Calrissian.”; He leaned in closer, his breath warm against her ear.
“_ You'd be surprised how often you're in them.” Leia's heart skipped a beat, and she quickly looked away, focusing on the path ahead.
“_ Let's just get this mission done.”; She said, her voice a little less steady than she'd like.
“_ As you wish.”; Lando replied, his tone playful yet kind. “But don't think I won't remind you of this later.”
Leia shook her head, a small smile playing on her lips despite herself.
“_ You're insufferable.”
“_ And you love it.”; Lando shot back, his eyes gleaming with mischief.
They continued through the forest, Leia's stubborn pride gradually giving way to a grudging appreciation for Lando's help. His touch was careful, his words a blend of flirtation and genuine concern. And though she would never admit it, there was something comforting about having him by her side.
Leia limped slightly as they continued their journey through the dense undergrowth of Endor, her ankle protesting with each step. Yet Lando's presence beside her was a reassuring anchor, his hand firm yet gentle around her waist, supporting her weight as they navigated the uneven terrain.
Despite her initial reluctance to accept his help, Leia found herself leaning into his touch, grateful for the steadying presence he provided. His fingers were warm against her skin, a stark contrast to the cool air that enveloped them, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of comfort in his proximity.
As they walked, Leia's mind drifted back to their earlier exchange, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. Lando's playful banter had been a welcome distraction from the pain throbbing in her ankle.
“_ You know…”; She said, breaking the comfortable silence between them. “For someone who claims to be a scoundrel, you're surprisingly good at this whole ‘rescue mission’ thing.”
Lando chuckled, the sound rich and melodious in the quiet of the forest.
“_ I've had my fair share of practice.”; He admitted, his tone light yet sincere. “But it helps when you have someone as stubborn as you to keep you on your toes.”
Leia rolled her eyes, though there was a warmth in her gaze as she looked at him.
“_ I'll take that as a compliment.”; He grinned, his eyes crinkling at the corners with genuine amusement.
“_ As well you should.”
They continued on in companionable silence, the sounds of the forest surrounding them like a comforting blanket.
After what felt like an eternity, they finally reached the hidden Rebel base. The camouflaged structure blended seamlessly with the surrounding forest. As they approached, several Rebels emerged from the shelter, their eyes widening in surprise at the sight of their leaders.
“_ Princess Leia! General Calrissian!”; One of the Rebels exclaimed, rushing forward. “Are you alright?!”
“_ We're fine.”; Leia answered quickly, trying to step away from Lando's supporting arm. She winced as her ankle protested, but she refused to let it show. “It's just a minor injury.”
Lando shook his head, his arm still firmly around her waist.
“_ Minor or not, she needs to rest. Can someone get the medkit?”; Leia shot him a glare, her cheeks flushing with a mix of frustration and embarrassment.
“_ I told you, I'm fine.”; She insisted, her voice rising slightly. “I don't need to be coddled.”
A few of the Rebels exchanged amused glances, watching the exchange with interest. Lando, for his part, simply grinned, unperturbed by her feisty attitude.
“_ You know, Leia, sometimes it's okay to accept a little help. Even from someone as insufferable as me.”; Leia huffed, crossing her arms over her chest.
“_ I don't need help. Especially not from you, Calrissian.”; Lando's grin widened, and he leaned in closer, his voice low and teasing.
“_ Then why are you still leaning on me?”
Leia opened her mouth to retort, but the words caught in her throat. She could feel the eyes of the other Rebels on them, and her frustration mounted.
“_ Fine.”; She said through gritted teeth. “If it gets you to stop hovering, I'll sit down for a minute.”
Lando's expression softened, and he gently guided her to a nearby bench.
“_ That's all I ask.”; He said, his tone genuinely kind. He turned to one of the Rebels, who had brought over a medkit. “Let's get that ankle looked at.”
Leia glared at her swollen ankle, her hands moving to take off her boot. But Lando swatted her hands away, his touch firm but careful.
“_ Let me.”; He insisted, kneeling in front of her.
“_ Lando, I can-...”; She began, but his determined look silenced her.
His hands moved deftly, loosening the laces of her boot and gently sliding it off. The cool air hit her skin, offering a momentary relief. Leia's ankle looked small and delicate in his hands, and she flushed, the heat rising to her cheeks once more.
Lando's fingers were warm and sure as they examined her ankle, his touch surprisingly tender. He gently pressed around the bruise that was already forming, the dark discoloration stark against her pale skin. His brow furrowed in concentration, his eyes flicking up to meet hers every so often, as if to ensure she wasn't in too much pain.
“_ It's a nasty bruise.”; He murmured, his voice low and soothing. “But I don't think anything's broken.”
Leia bit her lip, trying to ignore the way his hands felt on her skin, the warmth of his fingers sending tingles up her leg.
“_ I've had worse.”; She replied, her voice sounding more breathless than she'd intended.
Lando's touch became even gentler as he began to massage the area around her ankle, his fingers skillfully finding the spots that needed relief. Leia couldn't suppress the small gasp that escaped her lips as he worked, the pain gradually giving way to a strange, soothing warmth.
“_ You really should rest this.”; Lando said, his eyes flicking up to meet hers again, a playful glint in them. “But knowing you, I doubt you'll take my advice.”
Leia managed a small, wry smile.
“_ You know me all too well.”; He chuckled, his hands continuing their careful ministrations.
“_ Just try to stay off it as much as you can. For me? Please darling?”; Leia's flush deepened, and she looked away, focusing on a point in the distance.
“_ I'll consider it.”; She muttered, her voice barely above a whisper. “Eventually…”
Lando's hands stilled for a moment, then he gave her ankle a final, gentle squeeze before carefully setting it down.
“_ Good enough for now.”; He said, standing up and offering her a hand. “But don't think I'm letting you off the hook that easily.”
Leia took his hand, allowing him to help her up, her ankle feeling considerably better thanks to his careful attention. She met his gaze, a mixture of gratitude and something more in her eyes.
“_ Thank you, Lando.”; She said softly. He smiled, his usual charm tempered with genuine warmth.
“_ Anytime, Princess. Anytime.”; Lando straightened and glanced around, spotting a nearby Rebel with a medkit. “Can you get me some ice for her ankle, please?”
The Rebel nodded and quickly returned with a cold pack, handing it to Lando with a look of respect. Lando took the ice pack and knelt down in front of Leia again.
“_ This will help with the swelling.”; He said, his tone gentle. Leia eyed the ice pack warily.
“_ I really don't need-...”
Before she could finish, Lando gently pressed the ice pack against her ankle. She gasped at the sudden cold, instinctively pulling her leg back.
“_ Lando!”; He chuckled, holding the ice pack firmly but carefully in place, his hand firmly holding her ankle in place.
“_ I know it's cold, but it will help. Trust me.”; Leia tried to pull away again, but Lando's grip was gentle yet unyielding.
“_ I'm fine, really. You don't have to-...”
“_ Leia.”; He interrupted, his eyes meeting hers with a mix of amusement and concern. “Let me take care of you for once.”
She huffed, crossing her arms and glaring at him, cheeks red as ever.
“_ You're enjoying this far too much.”; Lando's grin widened.
“_ Maybe a little.”; He admitted. “But can you blame me? It's not every day I get to play nursemaid to the fearless Princess Leia.”
Leia rolled her eyes, though there was a hint of a smile on her lips.
“_ You're insufferable.”
“_ And yet, there you are. Letting me take care of you.”; He countered, still holding the ice pack in place. She shook her head, unable to suppress a small laugh.
“_ You're impossible, Calrissian.”; Lando laughed, his eyes twinkling.
“_ Maybe so, but I'm right about this. Now, hold still.”
Leia sighed, the cold of the ice pack numbing the pain in her ankle. Despite her feisty resistance, she felt a strange comfort in Lando's care.
“_ I hope you realize this doesn't mean I owe you anything…”; She said, her tone lighter now. Lando's chuckle was warm and rich, going straight to her chest, butterflies roaming around in her belly.
“_ Of course not. But it does mean you can't complain about my methods.”; Leia arched an eyebrow.
“_ Methods? You mean your incessant flirting?”; He grinned, adjusting the ice pack slightly.
“_ Flirting is just one of my many talents.”; She couldn't help but laugh, the tension easing from her shoulders.
“_ I suppose it is. But don't think this means I'm letting you off the hook for your insufferable behavior.”
Lando's eyes sparkled with mischief as he gently massaged her ankle, applying the cold pack over it.
“_ I wouldn't dream of it, Princess. Besides, I enjoy our little sparring matches.”; Leia shook her head, a genuine smile spreading across her face.
“_ You're impossible, but I suppose you have your moments.”; Lando's expression softened, his voice lowering to a sincere tone.
“_ I'm just glad you're okay, Leia.”
The Rebels quickly arranged a more comfortable seat for Leia, bringing over a cushioned chair and helping her ease into it. Despite their best efforts, she couldn't help but feel irritated by the whole situation.
Being taken care of wasn't something she enjoyed, especially not when there was work to be done.
As she settled into the chair, Leia watched Lando move efficiently among the other Rebels, gearing up for the next part of their mission. He checked weapons, reviewed plans, and gave instructions with an easy confidence that belied the seriousness of the situation. It was clear he thrived in these moments, and a part of Leia envied his freedom to act while she was stuck, immobilized by her injury.
Lando caught her gaze and gave her a quick, reassuring smile before turning back to the task at hand. His hands moved deftly, securing gear and ensuring everything was in place. Leia couldn't help but admire his competence, even as her frustration simmered just below the surface.
One of the Rebels approached with a cup of water and a sympathetic smile.
“_ Here, Princess Leia. You should stay hydrated.”; Leia accepted the cup with a tight smile.
“_ Thank you.”; She said, though she felt anything but grateful. Being sidelined like this was infuriating.
She took a sip of water and continued to watch Lando, her eyes narrowing as he effortlessly handled the preparations.
“_ You know…”; She called out, loud enough for him to hear. “If you spent as much time planning as you do flirting, this mission would be done by now.”
Lando glanced over his shoulder, a playful smirk tugging at his lips as he secured his blaster into his belt.
“_ Oh, I'm more than capable of multitasking, Your Highness.”; Leia rolled her eyes, though there was a hint of a smile on her face.
“_ Multitasking, right. Is that what you call it?”; He chuckled, turning fully to face her.
“_ You wound me, Princess. I like to think my charm is just one of the many tools at my disposal.”; She shook her head, unable to suppress a laugh as she sipped on her water.
“_ Somehow, I doubt that's what they teach in officer training.”; Lando shrugged, a twinkle in his eye.
“_ They call it improvisation. It's an essential skill in the field.”; Leia huffed, crossing her arms after putting her cup on the side.
“_ Well, while you're out there improvising, I'll just be sitting here, twiddling my thumbs.”
He walked over, crouching down beside her chair, his expression softening.
“_ Hey, you'll be back on your feet in no time. And until then, you're still our best strategist. We need you, Leia.”; She looked into his eyes, seeing the sincerity there.
“_ I just hate feeling useless.”; Lando shook his head.
“_ You're anything but useless. Trust me, this mission wouldn't be half as successful without your input.”; Leia sighed, her frustration giving way to a grudging acceptance.
“_ Fine. But if I hear one word about you enjoying this, I swear-...”
He raised his hands in mock surrender.
“_ Not a word, Princess. Not a word.”; She couldn't help but smile, the warmth of his reassurance easing her irritation.
“_ Good. Now, get back to work. I expect you to actually finish this mission, not just charm everyone you meet.”; Lando laughed, standing up and giving her a salute.
“_ Yes, ma'am. I'll do my best.”
As he returned to the preparations, Leia leaned back in her chair, still annoyed at her situation but comforted by Lando's words. She watched him move among the Rebels, his presence commanding yet relaxed, and couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in having him as an ally. As a friend. And sometimes, as something more…
Despite her frustration, she knew Lando was right.
She wasn't useless, and there were still ways she could contribute. For now, she would focus on recovery and trust in her team to handle the mission. And when she was back on her feet, she'd make sure to give Lando a run for his money, both in the field and in their endless, playful discussions.
Leia sat in the cushioned chair, her ankle throbbing as she watched Lando and the other Rebels heading out for the door of the Rebel Shelter. She hated feeling sidelined, unable to contribute physically despite knowing she would be more of a burden if she did follow them for the patrol. Her eyes followed Lando as he moved through the group, his confident demeanor and easy smile as infuriating as it was comforting.
“_ Try not to get too comfortable out there, Calrissian.” She called out, her tone dripping with sarcasm. “I wouldn't want you to miss out on your beauty sleep.”
Lando glanced back at her, his smile widening as he patted a passing Rebel on the back.
“_ Don't worry, Princess. I'll be back before you know it. And as always, looking absolutely dashing.”
Leia rolled her eyes, her frustration bubbling over.
“_ I don't know how you manage to balance that ego of yours with everything else, but it must be exhausting.”
He chuckled, giving her a quick salute.
“_ Just comes naturally, I suppose. But seriously, rest that ankle. We'll handle things out there.”
Leia huffed, crossing her arms as she watched Lando and his squad head out of the shelter. She felt a gnawing sense of uselessness growing within her, the frustration of being sidelined by her injury only intensifying as she saw them leave. She hated feeling helpless, watching others take on the tasks she felt she should be part of. Especially when they were this close to fight with the Empire, to take the lead.
But just moments later, as she tried to adjust her position in the cushioned chair, a young Rebel approached her. He was carrying a datapad and a headset, his expression a mix of determination and respect.
“_ Princess Leia, General Calrissian wanted you to have this," he said, handing her the devices.
Leia blinked, surprised.
“_ What’s this for?”; The Rebel smiled.
“_ General Calrissian’s orders. He thought you might want to stay involved with the mission, even from here.”; Leia took the datapad and headset, a mixture of emotions flooding her.
“_ Of course he did.”; She muttered, trying to hide the gratitude creeping into her voice. “Always thinking ahead.”
The Rebel nodded.
“_ He said you're our best strategist, and we need your input.”
“_ Well, thank you.”; She smiled faintly at the Rebel. Leia's frustration softened as she put on the headset, the datapad springing to life in her hands. She connected to Lando's squad, hearing the familiar hum of mission chatter.
“_ Lando.”; She said, her voice steady despite her feelings. “I hope you’re not planning on making this a regular thing. I prefer to be out there, not playing mission control.”
Lando’s voice crackled through the headset, filled with its usual charm.
“_ Just consider it a temporary reassignment, Princess. And besides, you’re always the best person to have watching our backs.”
Leia couldn't help but smile, her irritation fading slightly.
“_ Just remember who’s really in charge here, Calrissian. If I catch you slacking off, you’ll have more than just the enemy to worry about.”
Lando laughed, the sound comforting even through the electronic distortion.
“_ Understood, Your Highness. Now, keep an eye on our progress. We’re heading to the rendezvous point.”
Leia's fingers flew over the datapad, accessing the mission schematics and real-time data from Lando’s team. Despite her initial reluctance, she found herself immersed in the operation, her strategic mind already identifying potential risks and solutions.
“_ Team, keep an eye on the northern perimeter.”; She instructed, her voice authoritative. “I’m seeing increased activity there. Could be a trap.”
“_ Roger that, Leia.”; Lando replied, his tone serious now. “Adjusting our approach. Thanks for the heads-up.”
Leia settled back in the chair, her ankle still throbbing but her mind focused and sharp. Being part of the mission, even from a distance, was better than sitting idly by and she would take this over twiddling with her thumbs. And Lando, for all his insufferable charm, had given her the means to do what she did best.
As the mission progressed, she continued to provide guidance, her irritation transforming into a fierce determination. The Rebels around her watched with admiration as she seamlessly coordinated with Lando’s team, her presence a stabilizing force.
“_ Calrissian, don’t get too comfortable out there.”; She said during a lull in the action. “I’m still expecting you back here in one piece. And you owe me for making me sit through this.”
Lando’s voice came back, warm and reassuring.
“_ Wouldn’t dream of letting you down, Leia. And I’ll make sure to settle that debt. Just keep guiding us home.”
Leia smirked, her heart lighter than it had been since her injury.
“_ Count on it, Lando. Now move your charming self and complete the mission. We’re not done yet.”; She leaned forward, her eyes fixed on the datapad screen as she listened intently to the chatter from Lando's squad. Her mind raced, analyzing the situation, and she offered suggestions and guidance without hesitation.
“_ Leia, we've got a group of hostiles moving in from the west.”; Lando's voice crackled through the comms, his tone urgent but controlled.
Leia's fingers flew over the datapad, pulling up the relevant schematics and assessing the potential threat.
“_ I see them, Lando. Take cover and prepare for engagement. We'll coordinate backup. Team Alpha we need-”
As she spoke, she shifted in her chair, her ankle forgotten in the heat of the moment. But as she attempted to rise, a sharp pain shot through her leg, and she winced involuntarily.
“_ Princess, sit down.”; Lando's voice came through the comms, firm and commanding. “You're no good to us if you make that injury worse.”
Leia gritted her teeth, frustration bubbling up alongside the pain.
“_ I'm fine, Lando.”; She insisted, her voice strained. “I can still-”
“_ Leia, listen to me.”; Lando interrupted, his tone softer now but no less authoritative. “We need you here, guiding us. Trust me, I've been in your shoes before. You're doing more for the mission right now than any of us out here.”
Leia hesitated, torn between her desire to help and the reality of her physical limitations. She glanced down at her injured ankle, the bruise painful, and sighed in resignation.
“_ Fine.”; She conceded, sinking back into the chair. “But I better not hear any complaints if things go sideways out there.”
Lando chuckled, the sound reassuring even through the crackling static of the comms.
“_ Wouldn't dream of it, Princess. Now, let's focus on getting through this together.”
As the mission progressed, Leia remained glued to the datapad, offering guidance and support to Lando and his team. She sent a backup team to the perimeter, making sure to connect their communications with Lando’s team for an even smoother coordination and strategy of attack.
“_ Princess, we've secured the target.”; Lando's voice came through the comms a good hour later, filled with relief and satisfaction. “Mission accomplished.”
Leia couldn't help but smile, a sense of pride swelling in her chest.
“_ Well done, Lando. I knew you had it in you. Good job team!”
There was a pause on the other end of the line before Lando spoke again, his voice softer now.
“_ Thank you, Leia. None of this would have been possible without you.”
Leia felt a warmth spread through her, a sense of validation and gratitude she hadn't expected.
“_ Stop smooth-talking me, I’m just doing my job.”; She replied, trying to keep her voice steady despite the emotions swirling within her. Lando's chuckle echoed through the comms.
“_ You're doing a lot more than that, Princess. And we're all grateful for it. We’ll be back in a few moments, try not to miss me.”
Leia laughed at that, though she couldn’t hide the flush now dusting her cheeks, her heart lighter than it had been in days.
“_ Wouldn’t dream of it, Calrissian.”