When he starts to make out the lights of the arena, Solo draws himself up a little taller. He adopts that chin up smugness in his jaw that is so very prevalent in the way he carries himself. That self-confident glide in his walk. Han is used to being under the bright lights. From tournament sabacc games to the swoop racing circuit and even underground fighting rings like this one ... he's been here before and it shows while they parade him out.

When they're positioned in the center of the ring, Captain Solo sees a pedestal across the arena from him with his blaster laid upon it. The DL-44 that he realizes he's supposed to spend this match struggling for while he's chained to his opponent. No doubt there's a weapon for Kirk placed somewhere behind him. It all makes sense now. This is why their match is 'special'.

It takes him by surprise when Kirk is suddenly yanking on the length of chain. Had there been any indication they were supposed to begin? Well, he has one now, doesn't he? Solo's wrist and shoulder get jerked on hard while he digs his boots into the ground and tries to lean backward against the effort.

And then, he has another idea altogether. Not only does he stop resisting, but Han starts running full speed toward Jim as fast as those long legs will carry him. The chain slackens with Han's effort while he flies at Kirk, leading with a forearm smash lined up to his face.