I'd be fine with a 2hr ep.
Immediately caught that, too.
My take as well. Makes total sense that someone who always was in-tune with the world around him would have a deep connection with the the Force. Him whipping up with just Force Push and Force Pull was impressive.
Someone had to get Leia's message to that committee. R2's off with Luke, so who else would she send? Plus, it gave all of us the chance to yell "THREEPIO!!!:
Oh, and C1-10P is fucking awesome; I never thought a droid could rival R2-D2 for #1 on the droid list, but damn if he isn't 1 or 1A.
Also, did anyone else catch Anakin tell Snips to "trust your instincts" during his training holo? Qui Gon, who believed in the Living Force and "feel; don't think. Trust your instincts," trained Obi-Wan who trained Anakin, who trained Ahsoka. The philosophies of masters transmit down through their padawans, and on again. Nice touch.
Thrawn also showed restraint by not telling Morgan to shut the fuck up. I'm the Grand Admiral, I'm the master strategist, you're my lacky. Now please stop interrupting me with stupid questions and even worse tactical suggestions.
Baylon seeming to abandon Shinn... a final test for her, perhaps? "Survive, and you are fit to serve along side me." Interesting, as he seemed to show concern for her a few eps ago when Ahsoka Force Pushed her into a column at the Stonehenge-esque location. Perhaps using Shin as a distraction/cover while he goes off to find whatever (or whomever) he was searching? Either way... I'll say it again: what a shame that Ray passed away. He's killing it as Baylon.