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Missing Scenes
Attack of the Clones: New Faces and Old Memories
Between the lack of sleep due to the knowledge of Cordé's death and having to work out the details pertaining to the murder as well as her rather enjoyable spar with the Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi Sabé was utterly exhausted. As soon as her training with Moteé and Dormé had drawn to a close she was quick to wash up and slip back to her quarters for a quick nap. With evening rapidly approaching Sabé wanted to make sure she was well rested for the meetings that would require her presence.
But just as she was drifted off into a light rest the door to her quarters opened and a rather jubilant Eirtaé bursted in promptly finding her way to Sabé's room.
"Sabé! Wake up Sabé! Guess who's here!?"
Sabé stirred her eyes heavy with sleep as she groaned.
"Eirtaé you better be gone when i open my eyes."
She warned as her friend laughed and shook her shoulder.
"Sabé aren't you the least bit curious?"
"No...I'm tired..."
Sabé muttered as Eirtaé gave an impatient sigh as she folded her arms.
"Fine then I'll tell you anyways and maybe that will change your mind."
Sabé sighed deeply as she shook her head in dismay and tried to ignore her friend's voice.
"Remember when we were on Tatooine all those years ago and that little boy came back with us? Well he is here now with his Master..."
Eirtaé giggled as Sabé couldn't help but smile sleepily as she knew just who this master in question was.
"You should see him Sabé! All the younger handmaidens are just completely smitten with Anakin or Jedi Skywalker I should say! But he is quite handsome."
Sabé groaned again and sighed deeply.
"I don't want to see Anakin, Eirtaé I want to sleep. Now please just let me sleep!"
But this hardly stopped the handmaiden who continued between giggles.
"Are you so sure about that? I thought you might be wanting to see a certain Jedi that you walked in on while in the show-"
Sabé's eyes flew open in utter embarrassment, horror and agitation as she grabbed her pillow and proceeded to pummel a squealing and laughing Eirtaé into submission.
"Eirtaé you horrible, horrible woman!! You swore to me on that day you would never speak of that incident ever again!!"
"My hair Sabé!! Quit it or Rabé is going to kill me!!"
Sabé snapped as her cheeks burned on fire while at the same time her heart raced at the possibility that perhaps her path would cross Obi-Wan's once again. Although it had yet to register in her mind why that was and so instead she shrugged it off as a sign of her humilation at the memory.
Eirtaé pouted as Sabé took a break from beating her silly with her pillow and sighed as she began to take her elaborate but now destroyed bun out.
"Oh thats just great. Now look what you've done. Rabé is going to have a fit! And to think I was doing you a favor by telling you that Jedi Kenobi was here with his student."
"Padawan. Their called Padawan's."
Sabé corrected as she got up her own messy braid slipping to her back as she undid it and began to rebraid it as Eirtaé rolled her eyes in exasperation.
"Yes, yes, of course.
But Dormé says they're coming by later to watch over Padmé during the night."
That caught Sabé off guard as she raised a brow in surprise.
"Oh dear. I can only imagine Captain Typho's reaction to this piece of news, nevermind Saché's."
Eirtaé laughed as she let her long blonde hair out of its bun.
"Oh and how! Typho was hardly impressed and Saché just about blew a fuse! She was all demanding to know why the Jedi were being chosen as security instead of us."
Sabé felt her cheeks light up on fire as she inwardly hoped this outburst didn't occur when Obi-Wan was within earshot.
"Please tell me she didn't throw one of her tantrums in their presence did she?"
Eirtaé shook her head and before adding with a smile.
"No it happened long after they left, which reminds me! Did you know that Jedi Kenobi has a beard now!?"
She exclaimed in shock as she made a face which instantly set Sabé on edge. Even now, years later, she was fiercely protective of her friend.
"It's such a shame really! That face is far too handsome to be covered under such scruff!"
Something snapped inside of Sabé who whirled around to face her friend with her brush suddenly pointed at her as though it was her sword.
"Lady Eirtaé, in the future I'd refrain from insulting Jedi Kenobi while in my presence if I were you. And for the record I rather like that scruff it makes him look distinguished."
That got quite the opposite reaction as Eirtaé bursted out into laughter.
"By the gods you saw him didn't you!! Even after all these years stuffy old Sabé still carries the flame for her sweety Jedi knight! I knew it! So did you both stare into each other's eyes all dreamy like with little floating hearts? "
"What in the blazes are you talking about Eirtaé??"
Sabé exclaimed in horror as Eirtaé only laughed harder before racing to the door.
"Oh you can't lie to me Sabé I totally know you did! And I bet he gave you a big kiss too!! I am so telling Rabé and Saché about this!!
"Oh gods you wouldn't dare! Now get back here right this instant you wretched girl!!"
She exclaimed in annoyance and embarrassed horror as Eirtaé raced out of the room in amused joy with Sabé hot on her heels to stop the girl from heading to the handmaiden's living rooms and stirring up trouble. But as Eirtaé bursted into the room she was met by an unexpected surprise. As she blinked in shock, her expression was mirrored by the other handmaidens save for Saché who was already on top of the situation.
"I'm sorry Jedi Skywalker but this isn't the Senator's quarters. It is down the hall."
Saché exclaimed as Sabé entered the room herself as she too studied the stranger in confusion.
"What is he doing here? Where is his Master?"
Sabé exclaimed in clipped tones, feeling her cheeks burn as she promptly thanked the gods she was still in her dress and not her sleeping gown.
Anakin was about to apologize and be on his way when Sabé's sharp remark caught his attention. It was apparent he didn't fancy Sabé's lack of respect for him and it showed though he spoke in polite tones.
"My master is joining me shortly. I wanted to be prompt in reporting to my duty, that is all."
Sabé frowned and folded her arms not liking the lack of humility she saw in the Padawan's eyes. He had just walked into the handmaiden's personal living space without so much as an apology and now he was trying to challenge her. Saché promptly spoke up in a rare moment of calm negotiation. Her expression though polite was not amused at the situation and she seemed just as eager for this situation to draw to a close as the Padawan before her.
"It's alright Jedi Skywalker we understand. But in the future please do remember the Senator's quarters are at the end of the hall."
He bowed his head slightly in reply to her words as Sabé remained silent as she tried to hide her panic as inwardly she picked up a familiar hum she would never forget. Obi-Wan was coming no doubt looking for his foolish Padawan who had just wandered into her sister's living quarters and she looked a mess. Although she would care was beyond her but for some reason it matter.
"I'm sorry for the intrusion, it will not happen again."
He said politely in response as Saché nodded in reply as she gave him a polite smile. But the moment was too late and before Saché could move in to escort the young Jedi out the door chimed. Promptly Rabé emerged from the next room where Padmé was having her hair done (although this was not meant to be known to the Padawan still here) and Sabé knew without question just who it was. So much for having time to to at least fix my hair she thought miserably to herself.
Obi-Wan went to the lower levels of the building to check on Captain Typho’s security measures. He checked the security perimeter of Senator Amidala's apartment and decided if any assassins wanted to attack Amidala, they would need an army. Satisfied, he headed back to the turbolift to take him to the floor the senator's quarters were on.
He was surprised to find, upon arrival, that Anakin was nowhere to be found. He reached out with the Force and sensed he was in fact down the hallway in the handmaidens' rooms. 'What in the blazes is he doing there?' he thought to himself. He had expressly told his padawan to meet him the senator's quarters! They had just been there a few hours ago, certainly he would have remembered where it was!
Had he really been so easily sidetracked? Shaking his head, Obi-Wan followed Anakin's Force signature and buzzed the door. As he waited for someone to answer it, he folded his arms in front of him. He was too focused on Anakin's siganature to pick up on that familiar hum of Lady Sabé.
The guard was well aware of who the Jedi Knight was and announced his presence to Rabé, who opened the door. She bowed to the Jedi.
'Forgive me,' Obi-Wan said when the door opened, 'but I seem to have lost my padawan.' He recognised the handmaiden, but could not recall her name.
His attentions were soon drawn to his padawan and the two ladies speaking with him.
It was as if there were no one else in the room when his eyes settled on her. Obi-Wan took in Sabé's figure, once more putting this moment to memory. No longer in sparring attire, Sabé was dressed in a dark reddish purple gown that was far from opulant, but enhanced her slender figure. Her long dark hair folded around her in elegant waves. The last time he had seen her with her hair down like that... The thought made him blush.
Just earlier today, they had been sparring and he had left in haste due to Anakin's anxieties over meeting the senator. Obi-Wan felt bad that he had had to leave so abruptly as it was rude. But there was also another reason he wished he could have stayed with her longer. Now they certainly weren't able to speak openly to each other. He reminded himself that anything they had to say should be able to be said in front of other people anyway for there was nothing inappropriate in their friendship, he just for some reason wanted to be able to speak to her without the watchful eyes of others and he wasn't sure why he wanted to.
'I apologise on behalf of myself and my padawan for intruding upon your private quarters uninvited,' he said finally, though he was mostly speaking to Sabé.
'I'm sorry, Master,' said Anakin. 'I thought I had the correct location--' He explained himself sheepishly.
'Not to worry, you're only a few doors off.' He offered him a smile that seemed to come more readily since being reunited with Sabé.
Rabé politely led Obi-Wan into the main living quarters where the handmaidens were before politely bowing as she slipped off into the next room to complete Padmé's hair for the meeting but not before she caught sight of Eirtaé's hair and Sabé to which she shook her head in dissappointment. But if Sabé saw this it didn't show as her eyes fell onto Obi-Wan and for a moment she was not able to turn away from his gaze. There it was again the subtle but hidden meaning that she firstsaw in his eyes all those years ago. A mystery that was meant for her to see but only when the time was right. Once more this was not the time and so Sabé was content to let it pass.
However there were others who weren't so easily spellbound by the handsome Jedi Knight and Eirtaé couldn't resist a giggle as she promptly whispered to the nearing Saché.
"Look at them see I told you they fancy each other!"
But soon Eirtaé fell silent as Obi-Wan politely apologized causing Sabé to snap out of her studious gaze as well as she bowed politely.
"It is quite alright Jedi Kenobi. These halls do tend to look the same to one who isn't familiar with them."
She said politely as she offered a kind smile, knowing that Obi-Wan held himself responsible for his Padawan's actions even though this wasn't his fault in anyway. However the moment promptly passed as the Senator herself emerged into the room her expression a mixture of curiousity and mild confusion.
"Might I ask what is going on here?"
She asked politely although her expression marked her authority and her desire to learn the answer she sought. Rabé stood behind her mistress in watchful silence as Sabé felt her cheeks warm further as though this was now her fault.
The handmaidens bowed at the sight of Padmé before Sabé moved forward speaking on their behalf and behalf of Obi-Wan and his Padawan. She would not let his good name be disgraced and so she promptly spoke up.
"There was a bit of a mix up in the directions given. Padawan Skywalker had accidentally arrived here to report to his duty believing this to be your quarters M'Lady. Jedi Kenobi only just arrived now to inform him of the proper location that they were meant to be."
The senator glanced between Sabé and the Jedi before her as she gave them a curt nod and a kind smile.
"It is alright I know its easy to get lost in the Senatorial wings, I've done it a few times myself."
She said graciously before politely adding.
"Seeing as we are already here you may as well make yourself comfortable as we will be leaving shortly."
Her eyes fell to Anakin for a moment longer and the Padawan returned her gaze steadily to which didn't go unnoticed by Sabé who ironically did not realize that only moments ago she too held a similiar gaze with the boy's master. But without another word Padmé slipped back into the side room with Rabé to have the rest of her hair style completed as Eirtaé quietly moved to join them in order to complete last minute touch ups on Padmé's make-up. But not before givign Sabé a bratty smile to which the former decoy just glared in reply.
Upon the senator's entrance, Obi-Wan fell into a deep bow, whilst Anakin was too busy gaping at her to do more than slightly bend over, keeping his eyes fixed on her.
'Thank you, Senator,' Obi-Wan replied at her suggestion of making themselves comfortable, though he did not wish to intrude. He missed the glances exchanged between Lady Eirtaé and Sabé.
Anakin's eyes stayed on the senator until she was out of sight.
Obi-Wan picked up on this and furrowed his brow, giving him a disapproving look, though he didn't say anything in the presence of the ladies. He moved to sit down on one of the couches as they awaited Amidala.
Sabé tried to ignore the obvious stare exchanged between the Senator and the Padawan as well as Eirtaé's bratty expression which caused her cheeks to warm despite her glare.
Once the Senator as well Rabé and Eirtaé had departed Sabé cast a glance to the small clock on the small table between the couches and furrowed a brow. Not enough time to offer tea she thought with some dissapointment before the sound of giggles caught her attention.
Furrowing a brow she turned to approach one of the couches directly across from Obi-Wan when she noticed Anakin had already taken a seat there. But the source of giggling was soon visible enough as Dormé seated on the couch next to him had slipped closer to its edge to get closer to the young Padawan. Meanwhile Moteé who was sharing the same couch as Anakin also moved in a little close as both girls proceeded to swallow their normally shy nature and quietly began to ask him questions about his braid about his training and whatever else that seemed to catch their fancy all the while giving the subtle signs of flirtation that instantly set Sabé's teeth on edge.
A sharp glance to Saché confirmed her concerns as she noted her friend's fingers were now so deeply dug into the leather of the third couch that Sabé wondered if she had pierced the material. However unlike Saché this didn't infuriate her but instead filled her with dissapointment. She had been careful or so she thought to enlighten the young women of the Jedi codes of honour upon learning they would be in the presence of a Knight and his Padawan. But it would seem they didn't pay as much heed to her words as she had hoped.
"Lady Moteé and Lady Dormé perhaps you should give our guest a moment to settle in before overwhelming him with your questions."
She said politely trying to hide the dissappointment she felt as she thought she heard Saché mutter something but thankfully couldn't tell what though she was certain it wasn't anything polite. Quietly she went to Saché's side in hopes of offering silent support to calm her fiery friend.
Anakin however rather enjoyed this attention offered a friendly smile as he shook his head.
"It's alright, I don't mind. They're just curious about the JEdi that's all."
"Curious indeed."
Saché hissed in barely audible tones under her breath as Sabé gave the two maidens a sharp look as if to say their behavior was less then professional before she cast Obi-Wan an embarrassed and apologetic look as if to say she was terribly sorry for their horrid behavior.
When the young ladies moved to sit on either side of Anakin, Obi-Wan looked to Sabé briefly, since she had moved to sit across from him, but Anakin had already occupied that spot.
Then the girls pummelled his padawan with questions which he eagerly had no problem with. Obi-Wan could tell Sabé and the other elder handmaiden next to her were none-to-thrilled about the younger handmaidens' actions.
Had it been Obi-Wan in that position, he would have tried to politely answer all of their questions, though embarrassed beyond belief...which reminded him intrisically of the time on the Nubian vessel some ten-odd years ago. He was pleased with Anakin's assurance that their curiousity was not something to be frowned upon. Knowledge and the seeking of knowledge was a fundamental aspect of the Jedi Way.
When he caught Sabé's apologetic look, he tried to reassure her that it was all right. It was a rather informal setting, seeing as how they had barged into the handmaiden quarters uninvited.
The other handmaiden he didn't recognise, standing next to Sabé, radiated anger. 'Curiousity is only natural and so long as the question and answer period doesn't interfere with out duties, they are to be encouraged.'
Sabé was hardly reassured by Anakin's friendly remarks and Saché even less. But at Obi-Wan's kind smile Sabé found herself trying her best to be a little more understanding of the girls eagerness. After all this was new to them and she herself was more than a little curious of Obi-Wan when they first met aboard Padmé's ship all those years ago. But then again she wasn't nearly this informal nor did she give off such signals that were less than lady like.
However just as the young handmaidens were about to draw back the Jedi Knight's polite explanation caused them to pause and remain put. Sabé bit her tongue reminding herslef that Obi-Wan was after all correct in his words. Even if these two were using this curiousity for other means. Saché on the other hand was less the amused but remained silent as she moved to take a seat on the third couch as Sabé moved to sit at a polite distance beside Obi-Wan unlike her two fellow maidens.
"Jedi Kenobi does make a valid point."
She admitted to Saché who raised a brow in response before giving Sabé a amused look which caused Sabé's cheeks to warm as she promptly glanced away. Moteé and Dormé once more began to ask their questions only this time they were more mindful of their tutors eyes although it still did little to keep them from subtlity flirting with Anakin who responded rather readily as he began to tell them stories of adventures shared with his Master.
"Did we really act like that back on Tatooine?"
Sabé couldn't resist asking softly to Obi-Wan as she instinctivally began to rebraid her hair into a rather intricate four weave braid.
The anger, Obi-Wan noted, from the other handmaiden did not seem to wane as she sat a good distance away from both Jedi. He was pleased that Sabé chose to sit on the vacant spot of the couch he was seated at. Sabé's appropriate distance from him cause him to realise just how close the other handmaidens were to Anakin. They were practically sitting on top of him.
And Anakin radiated egotism; Obi-Wan felt it.
Her question brought his attentions back to Sabé. 'I should hope not,' he replied in a lowered tone, just as Anakin added a loud sound effect to his retelling of a recent 'adventure'. Anakin was quite keen on fighting...
Obi-Wan watched as she so skillfully rebraided her hair. 'How do you do that?' he asked without thinking. 'I've only learnt the three-strand plaiting for the padawan braid, but never have I seen four at once like that.' It was elegant to say the least. Though he wouldn't admit it was probably so because it was her hair.
At his soft reply Sabé sighed deeply in relief before glancing up in surprise to the loud soundeffect as Anakin continued with his tale. Shaking her head she cast Saché a quick glance and noted her friend had folded her arms and looked rather unamused. I'm going to be getting an earful to put it mildly Sabé realized with a little amusement as she gently replied.
"Thanks the gods I was begining to get worried for a moment."
Soon she was braiding her hair without even realizing and at Obi-Wan's question Sabé paused and cast him a curious glance before blushing deeply as Saché smirked and remarked.
"He's refering to your braiding, you silly girl!"
Sabé turned even more red as she looked at him shyly grateful the other two maiden were too enthralled with Anakin's tale to even notice them.
"Oh...um...well its not that hard really it looks more tricky than it really is...When did you learn how to braid? Was there a ceremony for it as well in preparation for you to become a Padawan?"
She asked then her curiousity now getting hte better of her although in a far more innocent fashion than it was for her and Saché's protégés.
When she said she was glad they weren't like that ten years ago, he sent her a secret smile reserved only for her, though he was not aware of it.
Sabé's confusion about his question and the elder handmaiden's remark made him feel a bit shy. He also felt bad for putting her on the spot like that and bit his lip.
But as usual, Sabé was able to overcome her embarrassment by swiftly turning the tables on him, much like the sparring match they engaged in earlier that day. The memory of which brought a smile to his face. 'Yes,' he answered. 'You could say it was the arts and crafts part of the preparation to become someone's padawan...' Especially for those of us who were not chosen until we were much older, he added silently.
Obi-Wan couldn't help wondering what it would be like to braid someone else's hair for he had only done the small braiding for himself. Sabé's hair looked very thick and it was so long too.
Giggles from the two younger handmaidens temporarily drew his attention from Sabé. Anakin had decided the best way to illustrate part of his story was to demonstrate.
Obi-wan shook his head disapprovingly. 'I think that is enough, Anakin. Anakin--'
Finally Anakin responded to his master. 'It's really the best way to explain, Master. Such concepts are confusing when spoken about to the unintiated.' He turned back to the handmaidens, still plafully wielding the Force.
'He never listens,' Obi-Wan muttered to himself, though Sabé was close enough to overhear. He spoke up again, saying, 'The Force is not meant to be used in such a way, my young padawan learner.' It disappointed Obi-Wan that Anakin would not behave more appropriately and treat the Force with greater respect.
Sabé caught his hidden smile and offered one of her own feeling her cheeks warm slightly at the sight of it. It was an image that would linger in her thoughts for many days to come.
Saché grinned to her friend's embarrassment but decided not to make mention that braiding one's hair in such company probably wasn't very professional as given the situation wasn't exactly professional to begin with.
Sabé on the other hand felt her cheeks glowing but couldn't help but smile at the thought of imagining a Obi-Wan as a youngling learning how to braid. But before she could ask more questions about this the younger handmaiden's giggles and little gasps of surprise caught her attention.
She said nothing as it wasn't her place but Saché looked as concerned as she felt. If there was one thing she learnt over the years it was to always show respect for the higher forces of nature and the elements. However it would seem Moteé and Dormé were too transfixed with the Padawan to remember this simple rule.
However Obi-Wan spoke up and decided to intervine much to the older handmaiden's relief. Sabé said nothing but her eyes darkened with disapproval as she watched the girls remain in place far too close to Anakin for her liking. There was a silent defiance that lingered in their eyes as Anakin explained his actions before once more using the force as they giggled and cooed that caused Sabé to bristle. Although at Obi-Wan's words her irritation turned to sadness as she softly whispered back ignoring Saché's mutterings about 'a certain unintiated, inintiating a certain Padawan with a punch to the jaw.
"All students believe they are wiser than their masters, till they learn the hard way what they should have listened."
Had no one else been around she might have risked placing a hand to his shoulder in silent support but this might be regarded as inappropriate so she refrained although her eyes turned sharp as Moteé (the more outspoke of the two) spoke up in curiousity that was underline with defiance.
"But why not?"
Saché's jaw was set but Sabé thanked the gods she didn't speak as she could see her from the corner of her eyes. She cast Obi-Wan a look of silent support as inwardly she reminded herself to speak to them later about all this. That is once Saché was done reeming htem out first.
Sabé's thoughtful words made his heart swell, though it did not help him feel like he ought to do more, that he was failing Anakin by not being a better instructor.
The audacity of one of the younger handmaidens shocked him, but he was not angry. Her curious tone did not conceal her defiance.
'Because, young handmaiden, the Force is something to be respected and treating it thusly is not respectable.' Obi-Wan said the latter part to his apprentice.
Anakin bowed his head sheepishly, but did not apologise.
Obi-Wan exhaled and offered the elder handmaidens an apologetic look before changing the topic of conversation. 'Senator Amidala did not mention a meeting. Are either of you aware of what sort of meeting she has?'
Saché cast Moteé a withering look and this promptly put the younger woman back into place as she grew more respectful.
Sabé tried not to smile as she caught Saché's muttered agreement but to the lack of apology given by the Padawan she couldn't help but feel bad for Obi-Wan. It just seemed even now Anakin was trying to show silent defiance and it set her on edge almost as much as her fellow handmaidens behavior did.
At his apologetic look Sabé gave an understanding smile and Saché too look as though she knew only too well of a relationship between a master and their student. But if any of Obi-Wan's words left a mark on the two handmaidens or his Padawan it didn't show as soon they were lost in discussion amongst themselves once more.
Sabé tried to ignore this as best she could as she focussed on his question instead. She gave Saché a quick glance and promptly drew her friend from her frowning dark expression as she asked.
"Saché the meeting was about last minute plans pertaining security for arrival and departures was it not? Or did the Captain fill you in on that detail? I know it has something to do with the incident pertaining to her arrival here but outside of that I wasn't filled in on the details."
Saché winced and made a face at the mention of Soren and rolled her eyes.
"Right as if he'd ever tell me anything. To even get a straight answer out of him is like pulling teeth, but I think it has to do with updates on the security problem. It shouldn't be a long one anyways."
Sabé nodded as she glanced to Obi-Wan before offering another apologetic look as she explained.
"I should warn you Saché doesn't exactly get along with Captain Typho."
"But only because he is so insufferably stubborn and arrogant!"
Saché remarked in frustration as Sabé winced and remarked softly so Obi-Wan could hear.
"She isn't much better to be perfectly honest."
Obi-Wan took note of the other handmaiden's name as well as her anger. It wasn't as lethal as it had been when the younger handmaidens were misbehaving, but this was a different type of frustration that he was not able to make sense of.
Anakin was peering over the back of the couch, trying to see into the room Padmé had disappeared into earlier, wondering when she'd be back.
'Oh I see,' Obi-Wan replied when Sabé explained the nature of Lady Saché's feelings towards the captain, whom Obi-Wan hadn't yet found to be arrogant. The captain seemed very knowledgeable in security matters and respectful of the Jedi Order.
Sabé's remark under her breath, caused a small smile to peek onto his expression. He moved to fold his arms and the back of his hand touched the back of her hand. He allowed it to linger a moment, his thumb brushing over her fingers, before promptly crossing his arms.
Obi-Wan tried his best not to look at Sabé for that brief contact caused him to want to connect with her again. He didn't understand this, but was intrigued and wanted to explore it, whilst knowing the possibilities of doing so were ever-increasingly limited.
He turned his gaze on the handmaiden he now knew to be Lady Saché. 'Lady Saché, may I ask how long you have been in the senator's service?'
Sabé noted Anakin looking over his shoulder to the doorway from which Padmé had dissappeared off to and caught Moteé's explanation that the Senator would be returning soon. The thought made her inwardly sigh in relief. But at SAché's complaint about the Captain Sabé whispered her thoughts to Obi-Wan was rewarded with a small smile that was soon followed by a distantly familiar sensation that brought back memories of years ago. The gesture was subtle to be sure, but the electricity that danced as his thumb brushed against her finger caused her heart to skip a beat or five. It encouraged the strange emotions she felt back on the ship ten years ago and it left her curious as to what it could possible mean. Once more it just felt within reach but just out of grasp something that would make itself known when the time was right.
Saché thankfully didn't notice this brief interaction as she had cast a glance over to the two girls who continued to explain a little of Naboo culture to the younger Padawan. Apparently he was more than a little curious to know what was keeping Padmé and they were more than a little happy to distract him that much futher.
But at Obi-Wan's question Sabé couldn't help but smile happy to see her friend properly meet and get to know each other. Saché had been curious about the Jedi Knight whose braid hung from Sabé's blade and was a little regretful she never had a chance to properly meet him.
Saché grinned as she laughed softly.
"Oh goodness like Sabé here I've been with Lady Padmé right from the beginning and gods permitting I'll be there till the end too! Rabé and Eirtaé as you already know are also part of the original members although I imagine they will be retiring soon from the service."
Sabé glanced to Obi-Wan as she politely explained. Neither girl spoke of Versé as her needless death much like Cordé's was still a delicate matter that hurt too much to openly discuss.
"Eirtaé is engaged to marry in the winter and Rabé is currently courting a gentleman from Thera."
Saché nodded as she added.
"It's going to be a shame when they go besides missing their good company Eirtaé and Rabé are the masters of their arts in esthetics. Heaven knows you don't want Sabé near Padmé's hair or myself near her make-up it would be disaster in the making!"
Sabé turned crimson as she muttered under her breathe.
"I'm not that bad..."
Upon realisation that Lady Saché was indeed from the same era as Sabé, he felt bad for not remembering her, even though she had not gone to Coruscant with them. But she did not seem displeased that he had not remembered her. Rabé, Eirtaé... he recalled, though still unsure which was the blonde one.
'When you see Lady Eirtaé, please offer her my congratulations,' Obi-Wan said politely to Sabé. The mention of courting, for some reason, made him think of the woman sitting next to him. He wondered if, despite her protestations ten years ago, that she had not found a suitor.
Lady Saché's further remarks about their own lack of talent in respects to Padmé's apparel made Obi-Wan suspicious, for he had a feeling the handmaiden was being humble. He saw Sabé's cheeks turn bright red and wanted to reach out to touch her hand, telling her she had done a fine job of her own hair just now without the aid of a mirror, but he withheld the gesture, feeling it would be inappropriate for some reason, though he was unsure why.
'As such things are not taught to the Jedi, I'm sure the two of you could do a far superior job than me,' he offered, smiling gently.
Saché grinned at his remarks as she laughed softly, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
"I'll be sure to pass the message but if you really want to make her blush I suggest telling her in person. She's working her wonders on Padmé's make-up as we speak and will be tickled pink to recieve such words from a Jedi Knight such as yourself."
Of course the real reason behind this suggestion was to see if she could a reaction out of Sabé, who remained blissfully unaware of this fact as she grinned misreading her friend's words.
"Eirtaé practically glows whenever anyone speaks about her fiancé or of the wedding. It's quite funny actually. You just have to mention his name and her cheeks light up on fire and she gets all giggly."
Saché rolled her eyes and made a face.
"She's into that romantic nonsense just like some others I know."
She said with a grin as she subtly motioned in Dormé's direction who was giggling at some joke Anakin had shared with them.
But at Saché's remarks about her not being as skilled as Rabé with hair Sabé's cheeks warmed as she felt concious of her own make shift braid. But Obi-Wan's words helped ease a little of her doubts and she couldn't help but offer him a shy smile as if to say thank you for the support.
This too went unnoticed by Saché who grinned sheepishly.
"The fact you even know how to do a three strand plaiting is pretty impressive. I can't think of any guy who can do that."
She replied in friendly tones as it was obvious she wasn't one who accepted compliments very well. Sabé nodded in agreement with her friend as she quietly added.
"You'd be amazed how many people struggle to learn how to braid it isn't as easy as some say."
Obi-Wan was also blissfully unaware of the true meaning behind Lady Saché's words and did not understand fully the concept of romantic love, nor the clichés attached to it. He did understand that it was dangerous to a Jedi, but he did not feel Anakin was in any danger of the young handmaiden giggling next to him. He's just humouring her, he thought. Although leading her to believe he intended anything beyond this harmless interaction would be rude and detrimental... But Obi-Wan figured their mission here would not last long enough for anything to come of it.
That thought saddened him though, that their mission would no doubt not be very long. The senator's assassin would make themselves known, they would bring them to justice and that would be the end of it. Who knew when they would next see her again? And by her, Obi-Wan was thinking of Sabé, but it did not register with him.
'Oh well thank you, milady,' he said in response to Lady Saché's comment about braiding. He hadn't thought it was that difficult aside from the first few times he tried it, but humbly accepted her compliment.
His cheeks were pink at what Sabé added. 'You're too kind, my lady,' he added shyly. He bowed his head for a moment. 'Though I still believe your skills to be superior to mine. After all, you have had much more practice.'
Saché offered a sheepish grin as she shrugged causing Sabé to smile noting her friend's inability to accept any sort of compliment or gratitude. For all of her arrogant front she was in truth more humble than most realized. It was a trait that took Sabé years to discover and she was happy to know that they were getting along.
"It's the truth, I'm only speaking about what I've seen that's all."
Saché remarked though she cast Sabé a knowing look that caused Sabé's cheeks to flush. If you even dare breath a word about the ribbon Sabé inwardly thought I will never speak to you again Saché Maberrié. But her friend, good to her word didn't go into further details.
But as Obi-Wan directed his words to the former decoy Sabé's cheeks flushed slightly as she picked up on the subtle use of title. It was probably unintentional she surmised but to hear it all the same caused her heart to skip a beat and the confusing emotions to trickle into her thoughts. She couldn't make sense of them just yet but she found she didn't exactly mind them either.
"Thank you Obi-Wan you are most kind."
She gently replied as Saché raised a brow being witness to this moment and finding it confirmed her thoughts about Sabé's emotions for the former Padawan and the ribbon's secret. But what amused her even more was the fact she could tell by her friend's behavior that she truly had no idea of her feelings.
Just a friend and nothing more indeed Saché mused resisting the urge to make a remark to the two unwitting lovebirds.
Obi-Wan did not spot Lady Saché's remark as having anything to do with his personal braiding technique. He assumed she was referring to other men and their lack of braiding capabilities.
When Sabé said his forename, he met her eyes. That lilting Nabooan accent seemed to make everything sound nicer, but no, it wasn't because it was ethnically Nabooan, but her voice...her voice saying his name. He had missed hearing her voice these past ten years.
Anakin was fidgeting with the legs of the table now, obviously having become bored with the handmaidens, who didn't appear to mind the view. When he caught his master's glance he explained, 'It's lopsided. I thought the senator would appreciate a level table.'
'Her handmaidens as well, my young padawan,' Obi-Wan added, noting the boy had forgotten this was not the senator's quarters, but her handmaidens.
Anakin blushed furiously, but continued to fiddle with the unlevel table.
Sabé felt his eyes fall onto her and instantly her cheeks warmed as she returned his gaze. They were the same peaceful blue she had remembered all those years ago, still carrying secrets meant for her to learn when the moment was right. As before it was hard to look away whenever she found her eyes settling on his. She could read so much in his eyes that words could never explain and in truth it was both intriguing and fascinating. She rather enjoyed it but she knew from Eirtaé's words of before that letting her eyes linger there too long would draw unwanted attention and so she forced herself to look away.
"What exactly are you doing Jedi Skywalker?"
Saché's question instantly Sabé's attention as she cast the younger Jedi a curious look as he explained to Obi-Wan just what it was he was trying to do. As he spoke of Padmé, Sabé caught her friend's smirk but at Obi-WAn's polite correction Saché practically laughed outloud but to Sabé's relief stifled it.
"So does your Padawan always fix furniture of his host's quarters?"
Saché asked with a wry smile as Sabé cast her a sharp look. That was hardly a professional question to ask and as always Saché paid this little piece of ettiquete no mind.
"I'm not saying its a bad thing, we do appriciate the gesture it's just unexpected."
Anakin glared at Lady Saché. 'I happen to like fixing things,' he said, though his tone did not bely his curt attitude.
'Anakin has quite the penchant for repairing things,' Obi-Wan agreed, though he would not stroke the boy's ego too much, for that was not productive. He also did not want to boast about his padawan, for that would also reflect poorly on him.
'I am good at it too,' Anakin added, almost defensively. 'See. It's perfectly level now.' He beamed proudly at his craftsmenship.
The young handmaidens seemed disappointed that he had finished his work, but were relieved when he sat back down between them.
Obi-Wan returned his attentions to the elder handmaidens.
Saché found Anakin's sharp reply to be amusing as she cast him a smirk and laughed.
"No need to get defensive Jedi Skywalker, I certainly wasn't complaining. Rabé is going to love you when she finds out you fixed the table she was going on about it earlier today."
She explained as Sabé couldn't help but agree. Despite Anakin's arrogant attitude he did fix the slightly lopsided table. At Obi-Wan's remarks Sabé couldn't resist offering a polite smile as she remarked.
"I imagine that is a skill that must be most useful when in the field."
As the Padawan proved his point Saché raised as she folded her arms shaking her head slightly. Sabé didn't need to ask what was on her friends mind as it was pretty obvious to her what that was. The two maidens were more than happy to watch him fix their table just as they were to have him seated between them once more. Sabé resisted the urge to roll her eyes at the younger woman and once more thanked the gods she never behaved in such a disgraceful fashion when she was still posing as Padmé's decoy.
As if on cue the Senator returned to the room with Rabé and Eirtaé politely behind her as the Maidens rose to their feet in greeting. Anakin instantly had eyes for her only and Sabé furrowed a brow slightly feeling rather protective of her friend. Despite the fact she knew that the Jedi did not permit such things she was concerned the young man's over eager interest in her friend woudl have some serious ramifications.
She knew Padmé was as professional as they came, but she also knew her friend was deep down rather lonely and did hope to find the perfect 'knight in armor' one day. She just prayed her heart would not shift and mistaken the unattainable to be that said avatar. But then Sabé always was a bit niave when it came to swearing oaths of honour and loyalty, leaving her to believe that everyone who swore their lives on such oaths would follow those oaths until they were relieved from them either through their master's pardon or until death seperated them.
"Jedi Kenobi, Jedi Skywalker we are ready to depart if you are."
Her attentions turned to Saché and then to Sabé as she furrowed her brow slightly noting Sabé's makeshift braid as she offered a polite smile.
"You will be joining us after all Sabé? Eirtaé was concerned that you would not be ready in time."
She said as Sabé's cheeks burned in embarrassment. She was scheduled to join Padmé for the last meeting of the day as her hidden security after all. So to hear that her mistress had doubts that she would be prepared to complete her duties left Sabé slightly miffed as she gave Eirtaé a sharp glare. Of course the former decoy knew this slight was made in reference to the beating she took with her pillow earlier but to have Obi-Wan hear this made SAbé fear that he would think she was always this unprepared.
"I am most ready M'lady as I would never accept a duty I could not complete."
She politely said bowing deeply once more reminding herself that the first chance she had she would beat Eirtaé harder; with two pillows this time.
"Then it is settled. Shall we then?"
She stated curtly as Saché and Sabé both noticed their mistress eyes once more lingering on the younger Padawan for a longer than was necessary. Once more he too returned her gaze readily until Padmé forced her eyes to look away.
