Forbidden Hero: A Star Wars Tragedy

Chapter 21 - Part 2

5 Years Later

Year 7967 - Excerpts from Captain Hirsi San Tekka's personal reflections on the life of General Spinka.

When asked to recall my time as Spinka's confidant, it is impossible to distinguish my personal feelings towards her. She was truly herself at every moment, seemingly without fear of reprisal. Yet, as I got to know her deeply, she was the most guarded person I would ever know.

For years after the Eriadu incident, the Empire had invested a lot of time and credits on searching for Saw Gerrera. Meanwhile, Spinka had invested time developing the Imperial Youth, a youth-based organisation consisting of enthusiastic youth members fervently loyal to the Galactic Empire. And yet, in that time, more and more splinter groups formed in opposition to the Empire, some I'm sure you know, more notable than others.

As the doors opened, I watched as members of High Command left the room, and as usual, Spinka was last. Deep in conversation with Major General Cassio Tagge, she gave me her regular follow me look as I stood.

"As always, your suggestions were invaluable," Tagge said.

"There is still a lot to consider," Spinka replied, holding her posture to perfection and her head high.

"Of course. Well, I suppose I will see you later this evening."

"Indeed."

Without hesitation, Spinka turned and beckoned me to follow. So, of course, I did. The Voss'Ka Teahouse in the Uscru District was filled with regular patrons when we arrived. Seeing Spinka's sister-in-law turn and smile as her three-year-old, little Koren, waved widely. Coming straight from a meeting with the High Command, we didn't have time to change into more conspicuous clothing. All eyes seemed to be very aware of our presence.

Clicking her fingers, a Vossian server quickly and quietly came over. "Your usual ma'am?"

"Yes, thank you, Yana."

"Are you sure this place is clean?" Stillé asked as she cautiously looked at Spinka.

"Of course it is. Trust me, Stillé."

"We're careful," I added this time in Miziri to give more reassurance.

"What have you got?"

"Troop movements on the outer rim and expansion regions." Spinka quietly and calmly replied, handing Stillé the data stick. "What about you?"

"Nothing, not a single sighting. He's laying low." Stillé replied as she covertly took the stick.

"He can't hide forever," Spinka replied her slightly stilted voice.

She didnt talk about the Eriadu Incident much, if at all, to people outside her circle. Yet, it had changed her life forever. In Galactic history, official Imperial or not, it was a tragedy. Four thousand children and staff had been killed by an artificial landslide that obliterated Eriadu's most prestigious school, Hailbury Junior Academy. I have memories of that day that will never leave me, but things were very different for Spinka. Only 57 survived, and in the attempt, Spinka was almost killed.

In the weeks after the terrorist attack on Eriadu, a plan made by both Spinka and Tarkin was formed. They were combing the galaxy for Saw. His name had been on the Empire's radar for some time, but now it was a priority.

"The scattered rebel cells don't have much to do with his group," Stillé replied. "Most of their activity is intelligence and welfare where the Empire won't admit there they are ..."