In the Star Wars universe, the second episode of "Tales of the Empire," titled "The Path of Anger," delves into the complex relationship between Morgan Elsbeth and the enigmatic Grand Admiral Thrawn. Set years after the events of "The Path of Fear," this episode unfolds the story of how Morgan, now a Magistrate, navigates the treacherous waters of the Empire's politics and military ambitions.
The episode begins with Imperial shuttles hovering over the planet Corvus, a world rich in resources and the site of Morgan's industrial operations. Aboard one of these shuttles, Morgan is pitching her innovative idea for the TIE Defenders, a new class of starfighters designed to give the Empire an edge in its war against the Rebellion. Her proposal is met with skepticism by the Imperial officers, who are more interested in exploiting Corvus for its resources rather than investing in her ambitious project.
Among the officers, Gilad Pellaeon stands out as the one who sees potential in Morgan's design. Pellaeon, an associate of Thrawn and a character with a rich history in the Star Wars canon, is intrigued by Morgan's vision and her willingness to contribute to the Empire. He questions her motives, seeking to understand why she is so eager to align herself with the Empire's cause. Morgan's response, a rote declaration of loyalty to the Empire's glory, fails to satisfy Pellaeon, and he departs, leaving Morgan to ponder her true intentions.
Upon her return to Corvus, Morgan is confronted by Wing, a local leader, who accuses her of breaking her promise to bring prosperity to the people of Corvus through the TIE Defender project. The townspeople, who had trusted Morgan, now face the harsh reality of the Empire's exploitation of their world. As tensions rise and the people's anger grows, Morgan retreats to her compound, reflecting on her actions and the path she has chosen.
In a dramatic turn of events, Morgan is attacked by Rukh, Thrawn's Noghri bodyguard, in a test of her skills and resolve. The brutal battle that ensues captures the attention of the townspeople, but Wing refuses to intervene, highlighting the depth of the betrayal felt by the people of Corvus. Morgan emerges victorious, only to be met by Pellaeon, who reveals that the attack was a test orchestrated by Thrawn himself.
Thrawn, now an Admiral, makes his presence known, recognizing Morgan as a Witch of Dathomir and appreciating her ambition. He is aware of her TIE Defender idea, thanks to Pellaeon, and sees its potential in the fight against the Rebellion. Thrawn also acknowledges the Empire's shortsighted focus on profit over the well-being of its subjects, a flaw that he believes will lead to its downfall.
Morgan, seeking revenge and driven by anger, offers her services to Thrawn, who accepts her offer and leaves a part of his fleet with her to begin the TIE Defender operation. This alliance cements Morgan's place in the Empire's military hierarchy and sets the stage for her future encounters with Ahsoka Tano and Din Djarin.
As "The Path of Anger" concludes, the people of Corvus are left to grapple with the consequences of Morgan's rise to power and the loss of their world to the Empire. The episode provides a compelling look into the moral complexities of the Star Wars universe, where loyalty and power often come at a high cost.