[Darth Vader emerges from an egg-like chamber to receive a report from General Veers.]
What is it, General?
My lord, the fleet has moved out of lightspeed. Com-Scan has detected an energy field protecting an area of the sixth planet of the Hoth system. The field is strong enough to deflect any bombardment.
[Angrily]
The Rebels are alerted to our presence. Admiral Ozzel came out of lightspeed too close to the system.
He felt surprise was wiser—
He is as clumsy as he is stupid. General, prepare your troops for a surface attack.
Yes, my lord. [bows and leaves quickly]
[Vader turns to a nearby screen and calls up Admiral Ozzel and Captain Piett.]
Lord Vader, the fleet has moved out of lightspeed, and we're preparing to— [begins choking]
You have failed me for the last time, Admiral. Captain Piett.
[nervously]
Yes, my lord.
Make ready to land our troops beyond the energy shield and deploy the fleet so that nothing gets off the system. You are in command now, Admiral.
[Ozzel falls down, dead]
Thank you, Lord Vader.
