Towards the future I see

Chapter 22 Part 3

After a while, Pryce came to the office and was also informed about the situation. I simply sat on my seat and went through the information of any kind of security breach. So far none. Hopefully, that was a good sign. But then a loud beep came from my datapad. Loud enough for Thrawn to hear it. It was an unauthorized breach by a droid. And I knew the model. Before I could do anything, Thrawn was already looking over my shoulder.

“May I see that?” He asked.

I had to give it to him. He looked at the screen on the datapad before he handed it over to Pryce.

“An unlicensed droid accessed the computer on section A2. I can only assume that they’ve acquired my plans. But something has changed, the rebels should have attempted to escape the factory by now.” Thrawn said wondering.

“Maybe they realized they’re trapped,” Pryce suggested.

“More likely they’ve found an unexpected ally or perhaps an expected one,” Thrawn said.

“I’m not sure I follow,” Pryce admitted.

“The rebels will attempt a different means of escape. And we must adapt our strategy accordingly.” Thrawn said. There was a call coming to Thrawn so he keyed the com open.

“Grand Admiral, there is a small group of rebels attacking the east gate. I deployed two AT-ATs, should I send backup?” Lyste was heard from the other end of the com.

“Yes lieutenant, let’s play their games,” Thrawn answered.

Something was going to happen. I remained there sitting and waiting for news about the situation. Thrawn searched few indications and listened to the conversations on the com of the troopers fighting at the gate. And then it appeared, we all heard how the trooper driving the walker inquired why a AT-DP walker came to the fight. Someone answered saying they were the backup. I recognized the voice. It was Ezra.

“Attention walkers, disregard the speeders. That AT-DP is under rebel control. Destroy it.” Thrawn gave the order through com.

I could only hope that Ezra and whoever was with him manage to get away. And as we heard the situation through the com. It soon ended with the rebels escaping the factory. But Thrawn had other thoughts. Several moments after the rebels got away, agent Kallus was also called to Thrawn's office.

“Agent Kallus, I read your report. Several troopers confirmed your encounter with the Jedi was very helpful.” Thrawn said. “You know, after analyzing the rebels’ escape, it’s clear to me they had help from one within our imperial ranks.”

“The rebels have a mole? Then all personnel must be interrogated, this spy must be found.” Price said almost furiously.

“Patience, governor. Acting out of emotion will not serve us here. We must wait and watch. When we find our spy and we will find them, we shall turn them from an obstacle to an asset. Wouldn’t you agree, Agent Kallus?” Thrawn spoke.

“Your strategy is without a flaw, Grand Admiral. As always.” Kallus commented.

“What about Lady Mira? How do we know she isn’t the spy?” Price asked more calmly yet still held the anger in her voice.

Oh, how predictable. I was expecting someone to say that. Now I had to decide whether I defend myself with a reminder that is hard to question or to let someone else state the obvious point here.

“It is not her. She has remained quietly here the whole time under my supervision.” Thrawn said looking at me. “Then again you have been occupied with your datapad the whole time. You could have been aiding them.”