Why Maris/Thrawn?

“A hidden connection is stronger than an obvious one." ~Heraclitus of Ephesus

What makes his pairing so unique and fascinating isn't what it shown in Timothy Zhan's tale Outbound Flight rather what remains unseen.

On the surface there is little, if any obvious evidence that reveals the attraction between both Thrawn and Maris. But with anything that pertains to Mitth’raw’nuruodo Thrawn, the devil is in the details.

Throughout the story Maris Ferasi’s affections for Thrawn were quite clear. Yet one need only read between the lines, to understand that her feelings were reciprocated.

It has been argued that Mitth’raw’nuruodo’s behaviour towards Ferasi was based solely on curiosity. Nevertheless this does little to explain the lengths he goes to earn Maris's admiration and respect. Though the reader never really gets a glimpse into Thrawn’s thoughts, his actions speak volumes.

Upon first meeting Mitth’raw’nuruodo, Maris immediately felt a connection; later commenting to her colleagues that she could tell he was a good person. Thrawn too, speaks of Ferasi’s kindness; admitting to Car’das that he didn’t want to be the one to ruin her noble ideals.

But not all of their encounters were entirely serious, or even sombre. During one of their language lessons Maris requested Thrawn to describe a piece of art in Cheunh. While remaining true to character, Thrawn subtly flirts with Ferasi; gently teasing her over her eagerness to know which artwork was chosen, before describing it in detail. Their appreciation and understanding of art was something both Maris and Thrawn clearly shared and this too could have influenced their budding attraction.

It is also interesting to note that despite the friendship that formed with Car’das, Thrawn chose to have private discussions with Maris without either Qennto or Car’das knowing. Though little is known about what discussed –save Maris’s explanation of the Jedi- Mitth’raw’nuruodo’s request to keep it a secret holds a weight of its own.

While Maris is often regarded as being naïve, her innocence reveals a more gentle side of Thrawn that until Outbound Flight wasn't seen before.

A perfect example was shown during an attack made against a Vagaari fleet. Initially, Maris admonished the idea of destroying the slaves that are being used as living shields for the Vagaari ships. Aware of the complexity of the situation Mitth’raw’nuruodo firmly reminded Maris that there was no other option; either way the slaves would perish.

Yet despite his argument and the impossibility of the situation, Mitth’raw’nuruodo sought to appease her. Ordering his troops to fire nets on the slave prison chambers Thrawn attempted to save the lives of the innocents, while achieving his goal. Though his decision proved fruitless, it revealed the obvious respect he had for Maris.

Even when it was time to part ways, Thrawn requested Car’das not to speak of the Outbound Flight’s demise to Maris. He admits with sorrow, that he wanted to protect her from the knowledge; while referring to her as being one of the very few who saw only the good in people. Though he never openly spoke of his feelings for Maris this simple statement revealed the effect she had on him. In many ways, Maris Ferasi represented Thrawn’s conscience, while he came to represent her growth and maturity.

Though Maris had spent a few months aboard Thrawn’s ship The Springhawk very little was explored in detail of their time together. No one knows how long Maris and Thrawn had their private chats, or how it began; only that he requested it remain private.

Even after the events of Outbound Flight very little, if anything, is known of Thrawn’s exile or even his early career with the empire. Neither is anything known of Maris; leaving much room for speculation and fanon.

This fanlist is dedicated to the mystery and the charm of this unexpected -and at times controversial- pairing. If you have anything related to, or pertaining to this pairing please be sure to email me. I’d love to add your works to this growing collection of fanart/fanfiction that is dedicated to Maris/Thrawn.