Eternity in a Box
By Ladyravena
Chapter Two: Saalin
Trili, pushing Saalin's feet to the ground, settled on the edge of the sofa, pulling her bag closer to hand. "You know, when this whole trial thing began, we sat down and crunched a few numbers. Looked up a few cases, and started in our own research. At the beginning, we were almost convinced that you were going to be able to talk your way out. Then, of course, they banned you from the rest of your trial.
"That's when little rumours started running around that a certain uninhabited planet was going to be getting a new tenant, rather than finding a spaceport on the edge of Chiss space like they do with the convicted murders. We all got together, and decided to get a few things together for you, just in case your lawyer couldn't get you off this time.
"It's a good thing we did, too, because you can't exactly go shopping for this stuff yourself." Trili pulled several packages out of the bag, handing one to each of Thrawn's friends, and saved one for herself, as well.
Saalin sat up a bit straighter from his slouch, taking the wrapped package from Trili's hands. "I get to go first, as I have suffered your friendship the longest."
Thrawn, settled beside Lyn, snorted. "You were the one that insisted on being my roommate, not me. You shanghaied me into this suffering."
Saalin mock frowned, smothering a grin. "Well, as sharp as your tongue is, and however much trouble it will get you in, this is by far the sharper." He passed a long thin item to Thrawn. "We wrapped everything in that thing called clothes, a fine thing to have in the winter months. Maybe not for the summer –ow!" Trili smacked the back of his head with a pillow.
A long sleeved shirt made of thick fabric was a welcome addition to his meagre wardrobe. Under the fabric, something caught his eye. A long hunting knife was properly sheathed with a strong belt for daily wear. The handle was fitted for a close grip, and fit well into the palm of Thrawn's hand. "Saalin," he began.
"Just promise me you will try not to cut your own fingers off," Saalin joked, handing him another package wrapped in thick socks. "Something to go with it." Under the fabric was a whet stone, handy for keeping the blade sharp.
"Thank you, Saalin, for both." Thrawn hefted the stone, frowning. "Although, to be honest, I only have the faintest idea on how to use this."
Saalin shrugged. "You're a smart lad, I'm sure you'll figure it out."
Frixs sniffed. "In other words, you haven't the requisite knowledge yourself to demonstrate the technique."
Saalin tossed the pillow at the pompous Chiss. "I have one more helpful wrapping," Saalin continued. Wrapped in a long pair of pants, a book-sized pouch landed in Thrawn's lap. "Watch your fingers, they're sharp."
With a wary glance at the other Chiss, Thrawn slid the pouch open. Inside, properly stored in their own compartments, fishing hooks and line lined up beside floats and fancy lures. Thrawn felt like something had hit him; he had completely forgotten about fishing opportunities. "I had…"
"--Forgotten that they are sticking you near a water source? Makes sense that if you can drink it, then you might be able to eat some of the little things that live there." Saalin smirked, pleased with himself. "It took fifteen years, but I finally thought of something you didn't."
"Don't let it go to your head," Thrawn groused, but smiling a little despite himself.
"Too late."