oh_riginal said:

I assumed they were flying around to the other side of Bespin before going out into space. Sort of flying "undercover" in a way. But when they went back and caught the attention of the TIE Fighters they lost their opportunity for an easy escape and had to get to space ASAP to go to lightspeed.

That's a good supposition. I always assumed that the moment the Falcon blasted off from the platform that the Imps called out to the flight deck to intercept it - especially given Vader expected Leia and Chewie to be taken to his ship.

That would explain the TIEs in atmospheric pursuit and Lando may have been attempting to use cloud cover to mask their getaway. His concern for the TIEs of course coming after Leia tells him to turn around and go back for Luke.

As to an ISD being put into the shot - I would advise against it. I always assumed the Executor was the only ship in orbit - especially given the stealthy nature of the Empire being AT Cloud City. A fleet of SDs would have probably given Lando a lot more concern about their intentions when they first arrived, rather than simply telling him Han and Leia were simply needed for questioning to find Skywalker.

I think the scene as it was originally edited and paced, was perfect in tone, tenor and intensity. Adding anything else (including Vader's shuttle) was totally unnecessary and ruined the pacing.

I think Ady will rightfully handle this and help us old timers appreciate what a true SE should have been.