|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Missing Scenes
Phantom Menace: Of Dreams and Queens
Pre-Battle of Naboo on Queen's Starship,
It was cold in space, but with the ship not working properly, the heating and cooling systems had to be fixed. The pilot was useless and Obi-Wan ended up struggling to get out of bed at an odd hour in his sleep cycle to fix the ruddy thing. It was only the first night on the Nubian Cruiser with only Panaka, the pilot whose name escaped Obi-Wan, the Queen of Naboo, and her two handmaidens for company. He was glad to hear that Qui-Gon had found a place to keep out of the sand storm, but cursed the atmosphere. Tatooine was, in his opinion, one of the least hospitable planets in the galaxy. How long would they be stuck here?
Finally, Obi-Wan got the atmosphere controls working again and crawled back into the small cot of a bed to get a few more hours of sleep. His dreams were a strange mixture of the Trade Federation's battle droids, Gungans wearing Amidala's extensive wardrobe, and some other species he's only heard about spun into a whirlwind of sand. And then he saw what looked like a masked warrior wielding a blazing lightsaber, though Obi-Wan couldn't see the colour, it was...double-edged. The warrior was malevolent and close-by, but Obi-Wan couldn't see him. He spun around, but the sands were clouding his sight.
That's when he woke up, sweating and breathing hard.
He ran a hand through his hair, catching the padawan braid on accident. Deciding he wouldn't get much more rest, he decided to take a shower. It was lucky that the rest of the occupants of the ship were still asleep as they all had to share the same fresher. He closed the door behind him and stripped down, turning on the shower. It was a very, very good thing he had fixed the atmosphere controls or else it would have bee quite a shocking, cold shower. Instead, the warm beads of water nudged him back into the world of the living gently.
The hour is late and admittly Sabé and her handmaidens were too wide awake with tension over the situation to even hope for sleep. So instead they remained up sitting in the small but elegant living quarters for the Queen.
Though Sabé had suggested mediations none of the girls were really up to it. Their thoughts were too distracted and so instead at Rabé 's suggestion they decided to play a simple game of "truth or dare" it was childish but at this late hour it just seemed to amusing to pass up.
"Your turn Sabe. Truth or Dare?"
Rabé 's voice offers with a grin. Going pensive Sabé furrows her brow. The truth questions proved too embaressing as for some reason it always pertained to the Jedi Padawan in way or another. So instead she puts on a bold smile and replies.
"Dare"
"Alright I dare you to...Hmm..."
Eirtaé still sore over the incident earlier smirks as she interjects.
"Steal Jedi Kenobi's clothes."
Sabé blanches as Rabi looks at Eirtaé half in horror half in amusement.
"You are evil!"
Sabé shakes her head deadset against this little idea as her cheeks now light up on fire before Eirtaé smirks as she retorts back.
"It will teach him a lesson not to play tricks on us!"
"Not a chance. There is no way I'm doing that. Besides just how do you propose such a plan?"
Rabé shrugs obviously finding this entire idea amusing.
"Well you could wait till he's washing up in the fresher..."
Sabé felt her cheeks glowing as though on fire as she frowns deeply not amused as the two handmaidens giggle and throw in their ideas of how they could make this little 'prank' possible.
"No. First of all thats hardly a proper impression to give him about the Queen's maidens. Nevermind the obvious fact it's completely inappropriate.
Besides do you want to be the one to explain to Captain Panaka just why there is a naked Jedi running around the ship?"
That promptly sobered them up as their cheeks promptly matched Sabé's for shade.
"Alright definitely not a good idea...How about his lightsaber then?"
Rabé suggests as Sabé turns pensive. That would definitely work she inwardly muses unable to resist a grin. After all the Jedi are very possessive of their weapons. Nodding slightly she rises to her feet.
"Very well I'm up for that. Now the question is when could we catch him off guard to steal it?"
As though fate were smiling on them the sound of the hydraulic pumps activate marking someone is having a shower. Though none of the girls can be certain Sabé has an instinctive feeling it is just the person they are looking to trick.
"I have an idea...But we must move quickly."
With that she promptly grabs her silk housecoat and slips out the door with Eirtaé and Rabé who giggle and snicker as they follow her in tow.
As they pass by the Jedi’s quarters she notices the door is slightly open marking he had obviously left in a hurry. Meaning that her instincts once more confirmed his location correctly. Nearing the fresher the three girls are all snickering and giggling now before Sabé turns to motion them to be silent.
“Quiet do you want him to hear? Look I’ll slip in grab the lightsaber which is no doubt on the shelves by the partition and slip out. No one will be none the wiser. Okay?”
Rabé burst out into giggles her brow raised as she stares at Sabé with obvious amusement. Eirtaé too carries an appearance of someone who knows more then they are letting on but Sabé ignorant to this for the moment assumes they are just eager to play this ruse on the normally silent but confident Padawan.
However though she was familiar with the set up of the ships floor plan the decoy had forgotten one key thing. The fresher wasn’t designed with a partition wall to separate the shower from the rest of the room as in its prompt creation it now has an open floor format leaving no room for cover for either party.
Slipping inside quietly Sabé eyes drift to the shelving unit area before realizing to her horror that the partition that normally should be in front of her is no where to be found. Leaving instead a very different sight to take in.
With his head under the streaming shower, Obi-Wan felt a jolt in the Force, knowing someone had just entered. Why in the blazes didn't the door lock? he thought. Security purposes, no doubt. But then when he tilted his head and blinked his eyes open, he was shocked to see the queen standing there.
Frozen for a moment as he registered the surprise, Obi-Wan's eyes went wide and he began fumbling around for a towel or anything.
It was the queen.
The queen!
Even out of her formal garb, fancy hairdo, and pounds of carefully placed makeup, he recognised her Force signature anywhere.
'I er- I...I am...' The towel was definitely handmaiden size, but at least it was something. And he clung to that something like a life preserver. 'Sorry--' he apologised as if he had intruded on her instead. It wasn't that he was afraid of ashamed of his body by any means, nor had he any reason to be, for that's not how Jedi were raised, but to be seen like that in front of royalty, in a culture he did not know very well, was completely inappropriate.
He avoided her glance.
Sabé about to grab the lightsaber that rests on top of his neatly folded clothes freezes in horror as she finds herself staring at where the partition should be but isn't leaving her in full view to a rather exposed showering Obi-Wan.
Ohgodspleasedon'tlethimseeme!!I'mnothere!I'mnothere!I'mnothere!
The words repeatedly scream in her thoughts as she remains frozen in position for a moment. But if he could read her thoughts, he certainly didn't comply as his eyes snap open meeting her horrified gaze as she finally snaps out of her shock.
Her mouth opens to speak but then closes as no words could possible describe her thoughts in this moment. Although an image of the ground opening beneath her feet and swallowing her whole definitely comes to mind.
Her eyes instantly fall to the floor as she catches his awkward apology, her own cheeks now glowing as brightly as two stars gone supernova. Somewhere in the back of her mind she know she should be the one apologizing but in this moment all that rules her thoughts is the instinct of fight or flight. And flight was winning hands down.
"....."
Without so much as a word she swiftly whirls around her eyes still the size of saucers as she rushes out the door practically ploughing into the two handmaidens that wait outside eagerly.
That was the first time he'd seen the queen out of her makeup and as a human, not a queen. It certainly wasn't the way in which he wanted to shed formalities, not by a long shot.
It was only after she left, when he breathed a sigh of relief and began getting dressed again that he questioned what she was doing there in the first place. It looked like she was trying to find something and once he was fully clothed, he took a look around the sparse, tiny room, but didn't find anything she might have lost.
Obi-Wan decided the best way to berid of his mortification at having possibly dishonoured himself in front of her unintentionally would be to undertake the mission of finding whatever she was looking for. He towled his hair and tossed the miniscule towel into a bin before exiting the fresher to follow the queen's signature.
Stepping or rather flying out the door she grabs both of the handmaidens by the wrists and promptly half drags, half runs down the hall without so much of a word.
"Sabé!? What's going on? Did you get the lightsaber"
Rabé asked concern filling her features. Sabé shakes her head her expression that of pure embarrassment and panic. She had about enough of Jedi, lightsabers, and showers to last her a lifetime thank you very much though still on the instinct of flight she is unable to begin to put this thought to words.
"Sabé slow down! What happened? Where do you think your going?"
Eirtaéasks quickly managing to wrench her wrist from the decoy's vice like grip as she realizes her friend is about to led them outside.
"...I need air and space. NOW."
She says in a voice filled with panic. Rabé raises a brow as she looks to the locked door.
"Sabé...What are you thinking? There’s a sand storm going on outside."
Sabé shakes her head before snapping out of her frantic state as she stares at her 'sisters' with a look of horrified shame.
"...The fresher doesn't have a partition for the shower."
She mutters finally her expression now falling into humiliation and shame. Rabé and Eirtaégrin at her wildly before laughing out loud and giggling as they realize the meaning behind her words.
"Of course there isn't silly! How could you forget that!"
Rabé says between laughter as Eirtaé snickers.
"So quit standing there and tell us what happened!"
She shakes her head firmly as she glares at them in annoyance.
"Why didn't you remind me!!"
She says mortified before her eyes widen in horror as she detects the oddly familar hum that marks the Jedi's approach. By the gods this can't be happening to me!!! She thinks wildly before looking to her maids in fear.
"...He's coming! I have to go now!"
She hisses as Rabé blanches and Eirtaé frowns.
"Where exactly can you go Sabé there is only two exits and one is locked because of the storm."
Eirtaé whispers as Rabé bites her lip leaving Sabé once more in a frantic panic.
"I don't care we have to do something..."
But before she had a chance to form a plan Rabé politely and by some miracle with a straight face slips into mode.
"Your majesty I do believe you have company."
'Your Majesty--' Obi-Wan says, slightly panting after chasing her down the hallway. Water from the shower slid down his face and neck, wetting the collar of his Jedi tunic.
'If there's something I can do to--' he began, once he reached the group of handmaidens, surprised to see they were all awake. He moved past one, whom he didn't know to be Rabé, to address the queen directly. 'If you need help finding something--I mean if you've lost something or needed something, I would be obliged to help you find it--' Obi-Wan was too out of sorts to sense the emotions from the young girls, nor did he pick up that this was all part of some game.
Obi-Wan was adamant about reclaiming honour in her eyes and would do anything she asked. He bowed his head and a few drops of the water splashed on the deck.
She closes her eyes fervantly hoping and praying that by some miracle he would go away or even better that she could magically dissipear. But neither comes to pass as she feels him moving past Rabé . So much for that silent support she inwardly grouses forcing her eyes open as she stares straight ahead trying to adopt her best Queen like impression. Carefully ignoring the barely hidden smirks and giggles she knows Rabé and Eirtaé are no doubt trying not to exchange she tries to rebuild her mental walls up as high as she can.
But despite her suddenly cold appearance her cheeks are still burning though inwardly she can't help but feel a little bad for him. After all he believed her actions to be based on an innocent motive when in reality he was to be the tail end of their prank. Although it would seem she had just become part of that tail end as well.
She is careful to hide these thoughts as she listens to him sputter noting sheepishly that his normally cool and professional mannerism was no where to be found as he tries, albeit desperately to regain his lost dignity. As if I haven't lost all of my own she grouses feeling her cheeks growing even more hot if that is possible. Her eyes briefly dart to Rabé and Eirtaé who remain stoic but whose eyes are sparkling with mischief. She knew without question it would be along time before she heard the end of this and the thought causes her to burn with even more shame and embarrassment.
An awkward silence falls between them as the sound of water is amplified by this silence dripping on the deck serves as a reminder of the recent events adding to her discomfort. But careful to keep her cover up and intact she casts him a cool glance though inwardly sighing in relief as she notes his head is bowed.
"I am grateful to you for your offer of assistance Jedi Kenobi, but it will not be necessary."
She says before taking a deep breath and calming her horrified and still edgy nerves. This has to be done whether i like it or not she chastises herself as she forces herself to face the obvious.
"However I wish to extend my apologies for the...intrusion. It will not happen again."
She hears Rabé cough and casts her a fierce look silencing the handmaiden instantly before casting Eirtaé a withering look that serves as a warning not to even try and laugh. Without another word she quietly turns to leave hoping against hope that she will wake up and find out that this was all but a horrifying dream.
Obi-Wan picked up his head to look at her, but the she was the queen again, cold and distant. And then she turned and walked away, leaving him somewhat baffled. His brow furrowed as he watched her leave for a moment before returning to his own cot.
Instead of lying down, he sat with his legs crossed in attempt to meditate and clear his thoughts. It was done. Nothing for it now. At least his master wouldn't know of this. Not if I can help it he thought, though briefly. Peace... His nerves were slowing calming. Peace...
She caught him glancing up at her words and it takes all of her control not to break into a run. She would not fail her Queen and so the mask is worn again, albeit more harshly then she intended. AS she parts ways she forces herself to ignore the giggling and jokes from Rabé and Eirtaé who now out of Obi-Wan's earshot relax.
But despite the humilation a new determination sets in as Sabé bites her lip and glances behind her to catch her two friends snickering away still.
"I have you know that I will complete the dare!"
She states out front as Eirtaé laughs while Rabé chides.
"Oh? Planning to steal it when he's in the fresher again?"
"NO!"
She practically yelled before covering her mouth as she tries not to draw attention to herself any more then she has tonight.
"No, I have another idea."
She whispers this time her eyes sparkling with mischief.
"And this time I won't back down, nor will I be unprepared."
This catches more giggles and remarks about her bringing a towel before she turns crimson and scowls at them.
She would bide her time knowing the moment he drifted into sleep the lightsaber would be hers.
Obi-Wan spent a good deal of time meditating before checking over the atmosphere conductors and system control again to make sure it was still operating correctly. He then ate something before looking over the hyperdrive as if hoping it was magically fixed and they could be on their way already.
Finally, he heard from Qui-Gon, who informed him of their plan to acquire a new hyperdrive generator. Another pathetic lifeform, he thought, slightly agitated, slightly amused. It was one of his master's habits, not that Jar Jar had been of any use to them. Help them through the planet core indeed! It wasn't as if they couldn't use the Force to guide them, which they ended up having to do anyway! He had to admit, it was quite peaceful on the ship without the Gungan's presence.
Obi-Wan debated about whether or not he should inform the queen of his master's plan because even he wasn't sure it was going to work. However, he had more faith in his master than the queen was likely to. Qui-Gon was confident and said their was 'something about the boy' whomever he was.
Though it wasn't necessary, he drew his cloak around his shoulders before getting up the nerve to face the queen again.
Eventually exhaustion from the evening’s events and the built up fears of the previous day rendered Sabé into slumber along with her handmaidens. But morning came and with much effort the decoy managed to get herself into the make-up and garb necessary to portray her role once more. This time she actually found herself grateful for the white pasty glue like substance as it would hide her burning cheeks should her path cross a certain Padawan.
Sighing deeply to herself she nears the throne room and inwardly wishes that something, anything would happen so she wouldn't have to sit in this dreaded room. The lack of events were beginning to drive her stir crazy with anticipation and deep rooted fear for her queen's safety. Atlhough last night was eventful enough it wasn't the kind of adventure she had in mind.
Taking her seat she straightens her skirts and sighs deeply before glancing to her two friends as she offers a tired smile.
"I honestly don't know how Padme can do this without losing her mind. Right now I'd give my left arm to just to be able to leave this room."
They both nod in agreement before they talked quietly amongst themselves until the topic took a turn as Rabé began to bring up Sabe's promise to steal the Jedi's lightsaber. But just as she is about to speak of her plan to slip into his room while he slept she senses the familar thrum in her thoughts. Stiffening she feels her cheeks instantly light on fire as she whispers sharply to Rabé and Eirtaé.
"He's coming, we'll continue this later."
Rabé is unable to resist a grin as she stifles back a giggle while Eirtaé raises a brow with a slight smirk. Sabé on the other hand thanks the gods for the white make-up once more as she stares ahead just in time for his entrance.
The voices within the room silenced as he moved towards the enterance. He vaguely wondered if it was an uncanny ability on their part or if they had heard his footsteps in the hallway.
Obi-Wan entered, swallowing hard before bowing to the Queen. 'Your Majesty,' he began. Yes, he thought, it is much easier now that she's in makeup and royal gown instead of that nightshift she was wearing last night. Even with the thick layers of clothing, he could still make out the shape of her body. And the thought caused his cheeks to glow.
'My master has contacted him about his plan to acquire the hyperdrive generator.' He went on to explain the plan in detail, trying not to show his concern about this 'boy' he'd basically staked their ship on. 'I know the ship isn't his to barter with, but I have faith he knows what he's doing.'
He didn't have to tell her any of this, but felt obligated to for some reason.
Her eyes waver slightly as he entered as inwardly she struggles to keep the walls firmly up and her appearance nuetral. What exactly was it about him that always caused the mental walls to shake? She bows her head slightly in greeting upon his entrance though her expression remains cool and collected. She takes note of his cheeks beginning to flush and once more feels relieved that her own is covered under the ghost white make-up. Obviously he had about as much luck as she did forgetting about the evenings adventure gone awry, though he manages to hide it well.
As Obi-Wan updates her on the situation pertaining to hyperdrive generator her temper begins to flair as well as panic. Quietly she rises to her feet as she casts him a withering look.
"Why was I not informed of this sooner?"
She pauses realizing that Padme would have warned her of this if she didn't agree. Still she had to keep the act up.
'Sooner?' Obi-Wan blinked, confused and shocked at her intimidating tone of voice as she towered over him on her pedastle, demanding. 'I literally just spoke with my master, your Majesty.'
He took a deep breath, centering himself so as not to incure further wrath by being outspoken. It wasn't as if he had any control over the situation nor his master's decisions.
Sabe instantly regreted the fierceness of her voice after all like herself he was only acting on behalf of his superior and therefore had his hands about as tied as her own. Inwardly she wishes once more that Padme was here if even for but a small signal to inform her the choice to be made. She could almost pick up the frustration evident in his voice though in appearance he carried the calm that is familar among all Jedi.
"I am fully aware that you are but the messenger. However I think your master should know that in the future the proper and polite thing to do is notify me of such things before following through with them. Especially considering the safety of this crew is at stake, amongst other things."
Like the fact every day we spend here, worsens our chances to help our people she adds feeling her frustration getting the better of her as she tries to calm her own nerves.
'Yes, Your Majesty,' he replied, trying to maintain composure. As if Qui-Gon didn't know all of this already! He understood she was the queen of an entire planet, but if age was any factor...
Everything about this situation was abnormal and everyone was on edge. Obi-Wan decided the best tactic would be distraction.
'Pardon me for asking, but since there really isn't anything we can do here, might I suggest some sort of diversion? To pass the time I mean.' He really didn't have anything specific in mind, but these formalities were slowly wearing on his patience and for Obi-Wan, that was saying something.
A queen with cabin fever was the last thing they needed at this point.
Calming her edgy nerves as best she can she tries to think of how Padme would react upon the situation. Returning to her seat she tries to hide the embaressment of Rabe and Eirtae straightening her skirts. She knows it is there duty for she had done it often enough herself but it only served to make her more concious of watchful eyes.
"So be it. I trust he does have a back-up plan should the events of the race not turn in our favor? I do not relish the idea that the safety of the ship's crew may have been placed in danger because of your master's course of action. Either way I pray he knows what he is doing, the future of Naboo now depends on it."
An awkward silence befalls them for a moment as Sabe inwardly struggles with her temper before the Jedi Padawan's words pulls her back to the situation once more. At his suggestion it takes all of her will power not to sigh in relief.
Nodding stiffly she tries not to smile or reveal her sudden urge to jump up from the throne and stretch.
"What is it that you suggest then Jedi Kenobi?"
The memory of the truth or dare game pops into her mind and from the corner of her eyes she can see she isnt the only one who shares this thought as Rabe and Eirtae try not to smile or giggle. Now she was curious, what exactly would a Jedi do to relax? Outside of meditation of course.
Qui-Gon hadn't actually mentioned a back up plan...but Obi-Wan was sure his master would find a way. He always did. They had the Force on their side.
The queen, he noted, seemed out of place to him, for some reason. Something in her eyes. He couldn't put his finger on it, but there was something...
Jerked back to reality, he stammered, 'Er...well I hadn't really thought of anything in particular.' To cover his unpreparedness, he added, 'Surely someone of your status and intelligence would have plenty of diverting ideas to help us pass the time.' He couldn't help the small smirk tugging at one corner of his mouth.
Sabe resisted a smirk at his obvious initial awkwardness. It would seem Eirtae's theory that a Jedi's form of entertainment was about as exciting as sitting in this room staring at nothing. But as though he could read her thoughts the Padawan quickly recovers from his initial awkwardness, promptly turning the table on her. Without realizing she raises a brow at his words as she swears there is a hint of a playful challenge in his words or perhaps its just the small smirk that hints at the corner of his mouth.
If it were anyone else, or if she wasn't placed in a position where a mask was necessary she would have had a few choice words in reply. But she isn't and so she remarks politely although she too carries a hint of playful challenge in her own voice though it is mostly masked behind her Queen voice.
"A bold suggestion Jedi Kenobi. Although I do not know what would qualify as a proper diversion by your standards."
Pausing in her best regal appearancee she glances to Rabe and Eirtae deciding they would be the best judges of this matter despite the fact she is playing the role of queen.
"Perhaps my handmaidens have some ideas they would care to suggest?"
Almost as soon as the words come out of her mouth Sabe instantly begins to regret it. The queen would never ask such a foolish thing of her maidens she inwardly panics before realizing it is too late to turn back now.
Stepping forward Rabe offers a polite look though her eyes sparkle with mischief causing Sabe's heart to drop to her knees once more. Don't even think about saying what I think you're going to say she inwardly grouses.
"May I suggest a game of Truth or Dare your majesty?"
She offers as Sabe instantly resists to slink further into the chair until the throne itself consumes her. As if that wasn't obvious she inwardly panics hoping the Jedi Padawan doesn't put two and two together. Casting a glance to Eirtae as if to ask for a silent plea of help she watches as the second handmaiden makes her suggestion.
"Or perhaps a game of Sabacc is more to your liking your majesty?"
Had they been alone she would have suggested the card game as "Truth and Dare" brought back too many images she'd rather not have dancing in her thoughts, certainly not with the Jedi Padawan so near. Even this thought leaves her to wonder that it is a miracle that her make-up hasn't melted off due to the burning heat of her cheeks.
Turning her attentions back to the padawan before her the decoy manages to regain some semblance of control over her embaressment.
"While both are worthy suggestions, perhaps Jedi Kenobi would care to choose which one he would prefer, seeing as he has obliged us with the offer of diversion."
She says turning the tables back onto Obi-Wan once more. Her expression though polite and formal doesn't quite belie the hint of mischief that briefly dances in her eyes.
Listening intently to the exchange between the handmaidens, but his eyes studied the queen the entire time. There was something about her that intrigued him, though he wasn't sure exactly what it was.
'I'm afraid I'm not familiar with Truth or Dare,' he replied a bit sheepishly, 'and I'm rubbish at Sabacc.' The truth was that he hadn't much time to play games, aside from ones that challenged his Force abilities.
He broke his formal stance to scratch the back of his neck as he said this, but as soon as he remembered who he was speaking to, in front of her handmaidens, he immediatley clasped his hands in front of him once more.
Though she knows her attentions should be on Rabe and Eirtae she feels the Padawan's eyes on her and try as she may to resist, soon her eyes fall onto him. She tries to keep her expression nuetral but inwardly she can't help but admit his eyes are the most beautiful shade of blue she had ever seen. Like the lakes on Naboo the decoy muses before coming to her senses as she snaps out of her thoughts and returns her attentions to her handmaidens once more.
At his reaction to both suggestion Sabe isn't sure whether to sigh in relief or groan in frustration. Rabe however isn't so easily persuaded as she smiles slightly bowing to Obi-Wan taking Sabe's permission to speak freely that one step further.
"Basicaly in 'Truth and Dare' one is asked to choose between the two options and whatever one is chosen is the what the one asking the question hs to work with."
Sabe tries not to smirk as Rabe slips into her tutor mode, oblivious to the fact that the Padawan before her is almost twice her age.
"For example if you were to choose truth, they'd have to ask you a question like is it true...that you are a Jedi or something like that. But a dare."
Rabe's expression takes on a hint of a mischevious smile while Eirtae barely hides her own while Sabe feels her cheeks explode on fire.
"A dare means you have to do something they tell you to do. It could be something completely silly, or something serious."
Or something accidental but completely inappropriate Sabe adds inwardly realizing now how unqueenly this whole idea is and desperately trying to think of a way around this without looking suspicious.
"Perhaps these suggestions have inspired further options Jedi Kenobi?"
She asks formally noting his awkwardness and finding strangely endearing though she can't quite say why. Lack of sleep and boredom certainly does strange things to one's mind she inwardly concludes.
This game certainly sounded interesting and since he hadn't played it before, he wondered, 'Is there a type of point acquiring or rating system?'
Obi-Wan knitted his eyebrows as he pondered this Truth/Dare game. Then, he thought he was thinking too hard about something that was supposed to be a leisure activity and passed a look from the handmaiden that spoke to the queen again. 'And for the record, I think it would be easier if I knew all of your names...'
They all dressed alike, aside from the queen, and most of the time, he couldn't tell them apart. Of course, that was a security measure, but as it was, they were stuck on this ship together for the Galaxy kenw how long...
Rabe raises a brow as she glances to Eirtae and then Sabe before shaking her head slightly.
"I don't think so. But I suppose we could if you like."
Sabe still posing as Queen catches his remark and nods slightly in reply wondering briefly if he was agreeing to attempt this game or not. Though she knows she shouldn't care the thought is oddly intriguing and soon she pushes down the thought. He was right after all he should at least learn their names before they continue. Motioning to Rabe slightly she casts him a small smile as the handmaiden bows politely in reply.
"This is Rabe."
Then motioning slightly to Eirtae who also bows.
"This is Eirtae.
Eirtae, Rabe this is Jedi Kenobi."
She states in polite introduction though inwardly she wonders and hopes this is how the Queen would have handled the situation. So many little details she had never considered before and now suddenly wishes she had.
Obi-Wan briefly wondered if the queen had any other name aside from 'Amidala' which sounded more like a surname to him.
'Nice to meet you.' He grinned.
Obi-Wan then followed suit after the handmaidens curtsied. He made a slight bow.
'My forename is Obi-Wan,' he said, since the queen had stated all the girls' forenames, 'if please you, Your Majesty.'
He had a feeling whatever would come next would be far more amusing than meditating.
Sabe feels her cheeks warm once more as he bows and politely states he'd rather be refered to as Obi-Wan. The unusual name suits him she inwardly muses debating if she should go along and refer to her natural name over the surname. Normally she would have said Padme out of accuracy but given that Padme was with Qui-Gon and already using her name Sabe found she was out of options. Should I take the chance? She inwardly muses before making her decision.
"Very well if we are to use our forenames, then you may call me Sabe."
For some reason the thought of him knowing her real name seems to give her a small tinge of joy. Though she can't quite say why much like his smile seems to cause her heart to warm.
"Alright then. Do you wish to partake of this game of "Truth or Dare" Obiwan?"
'Sabé,' he mused in a whisper, enjoying the way it fell liltingly through the air.
Obi-Wan pressed his lips together, considering. 'I don't see why not.'
He looked around at each of the girls. 'Since you're the experts, perhaps you could go a few rounds and then once I've got the hang of it, I can jump in?'
|
She barely catches his whisper but it tempts a smile to hint on her features. She rather liked the way it sounded when spoken with his accent. But promptly she ignores the strange thought reminding herself that it is only a side effect from the lack of sleep. |
|
Obi-Wan watched them with great interest. When Rabé returned with a bagel and Sabé was cheering, he found he quite liked it when she smiled. It was a chance to see the queen in a less formal light, albeit still in her queenly garb. |
|
She nods slightly feeling a little awkward now having to keep up her Queen act after having him just see her let down her act down. She tries to go serious but it is hard now and so she relaxes slightly still careful to keep her poise as she raises a brow another smile tugging at her lips. |
|
By nature always cautionary before jumping into situations, Obi-Wan said, 'Truth.' |
|
Sabe inwardly smiles she was hoping he would choose this response. After all it gave her the perfect oppertunity to learn a bit about him. Turning thoughtful she studies him for a moment trying to decide what would be the best question to ask. Nothing overly personal but something that would give some insight. |
|
He smirked at her question, wondering just how a queen would know anything of combat. But one must not underestimate other people, he chided himself. Though Obi-wan wondered what else she might have studied in school besides politics. |
She wonders if the smirk is because he doesn't know she is aware of the combat style or if he already knows. Watching him closely she tries to read his body language in much the same manner as she would if it were Padme responding.
She nods slightly at his beginning reply. So he doesn't realize i'm familar with swordsplay she inwardly sighs in relief though cant help but feel a twinge of agitation at the fact as well. She wanted to show him she wasn't someoneto be underestimated but then a small voice in the back of her mind can't help but whisper that perhaps this isn't as much about being underestimated as wanting the chance to show off or impress. Eyes flicker slightly at the thought and she buries it deep within her concious.
Tilting her head slightly she grows thoughtful. Ataru sounded familar but Soresu on the other hand drew a blank. Her eyes shift Rabe and Eirtae but neither look familar with either style as well.
"Ataru is that not an offensive style of combat? I believe I've heard of this style before however you must forgive me I am not familar with Soresu myself."
Suddenly she realizes he hasn't presented the question to anyone and she casts him a knowing glances sa it is her turn to smirk.
"Obi-Wan, I do believe you are forgetting something, are you not?"
Her smirk widens into a slight smile.
"It is your turn to ask another for "truth or dare"
So focused on the fact the queen was in fact knowledgeable about styles of combat, and wondering what type of opponent she would be had he the chance to confront her, he was taken aback when she said he forgot something.
'I--er--' Caught off guard yet again, Obi-Wan blushed, feeling the heat rise in his cheeks. 'Indeed it is,' he said, regaining composure.
He looked over each one of the ladies, in attempt to gauge who would make the best target.
The one who has her head bowed slightly... The quiet one. Er-ay... Sabé, Rabé, and Err-
'Eirtaé,' he finally spits out, hoping he didn't mis-pronounce her name. 'Truth or dare?'
Sabe can't help but smile slightly once more grateful for the mask that hides the blushes as she notices his intence gaze on her. He only sees you as the queen she reminds herself. You are not just Sabe to him remember that she fiercely thinks before wondering why she even cares in the first place. But at his obvious discomfort she can't help but feel a small gratification. After all the Jedi were supposed to be the masters of their emotions and this isn't the first time he has faltered before her. It soothes her wounded pride over the previous night events.
Inwardly she wonders who he will choose and finds herself hoping against hope he wouldn't pick her. After all she needed to think of how Amidala would react to his questions or dare. To her relief and immense amusement he turns his attentions to Eirtae noting how unusual it sounds with his accent and his obvious attempt to pronounce it right.
Eirtae on the other hand appeared to be struggling against hte urge to giggle. She was doing her best to be polite but Sabe knew her friend found the Padawan's awkwardness to be just as amusing if not more so.
"...Truth. Since I already did the dare"
Eirtae says casting Rabe a proud smirk as Sabe smiles curious now to know what he is about to ask her friend.
|
'All right,' Obi-Wan said, pausing a moment as collected his thoughts. What to ask a handmaiden... |
Sabe was inwardly impressed by his choice of question. It marked observation just as it marked curiousity. Eirtae on the other hand looked quite proud to answer such a question.
"We are trained to enter a meditative state for such things. I'm sure you already know how to do this but part of our training involves finding our center through combat. It's like meditation but through action."
SAbe pales slightly realizing Eirtae just admitted to something that was for the most part rather unknonw to the public. Rabe too was a bit unsettled but remained silent. After all he was a Jedi so that couldn't be so far from his own training.
Having answered his question Eirtae turns the tables once more.
"Alright my turn."
She glances back to Obi-Wan; as it is obvious that all the girls are more then a little curious about the mysterious Padawan.
"Truth or dare Jedi - Obi-Wan"
She says quick to correct herself though Eirtae's cheeks warm slightly at her mistake.
Obi-Wan nodded as he took in Eirtaé's response. It was fascinating to him, yet it made perfect sense.
Deciding to take a chance, he said, 'Dare,' wondering what in the blazes she'd cook up for him. He watched the handmaiden carefully, but wasn't going to cheat by invading her thoughts.
His gaze flashed to the queen and then back to Eirtaé.
Sabe watches this unfold as she can't help but feel a little sorry for Obi-Wan if only he knew...Eirtae for all of her innocence had an evil sense of humor sometimes. Last night being a fine example of that she inwardly muses as she grins mischeviously before glancing to Sabe as if to ask if she could have Rabe involved. Sabe nods slightly understand before sensing Obi-Wan's eyes briefly fall on her and then back to Eirtae who now moves to whisper ideas to Rabe who whispers back.
"You couldn't have picked a worse option."
Sabe states to Obi-Wan deciding it was best to warn him first. After all he didn't know them and it wouldn't be fair to let him fall too easy prey to her 'sister's' pranks. Finally after a few moments of quiet whispers and stifled giggles they return their attentions to the Padawan before them.
Sabe casts them a firm look as if to say "behave" to which both smile innocently as innocently as one can when one is up to no good. Eirtae then turns her attentions to Obi-Wan as she begins.
"I dare you to sneak into the cockpit and steal Captain Panaka's gloves."
Sabe's expression falls. The Captain was more then a little trained in stealth himself and she knew from experience sneaking up on him was a near impossibility even in the best of times. That and of course his lack of patience, when compiled with his lack of fondness for the Jedi as a whole meant one thing. Obi-WAn would have his work cut out for him.
Steal? Couldn't I just ask to borrow them from him?
The girls didn't say anything about him not being able to use his Jedi skills, so Obi-Wan readily took up the dare.
When he got to the cockpit, he found the captain having a drink with the pilot. He was wearing the gloves.
'Blast,' he muttered. Well, that wasn't going to work.
He then spotted a single glove which belonged to the pilot. He snatched it and was back in the throne-like room in a matter of seconds.
'This was all I could find...He was wearing the others,' he admitted sheepishly.
The girls giggle and talk amongst themselves while debating whether or not Obi-Wan would have any luck with his little dare. Sabe inwardly had no doubts he was a Jedi after all which meant he was trained for such things. Although she rather hoped he would run into trouble if not for anything then for the sheer amusement of seeing Captain PAnaka's expression upon noting his missing gloves.
Soon the door parts, far sooner then expect as Sabe almost jumps out of her skin as he enters. Strange I didn't sense him this time she inwardly muses before summing it up as being too distracted by her conversation with Rabe and Eirtae. As he presents the single glove Sabe grins as Rabe and Eirtae giggle.
"Well then you must fill us in on your adventure. How did you dodge the Captain?"
Sabe finally asks as her friends too watch him with eager eyes.
'It might behoove Your Majesty to know that your captain of guard and captain of ship are enjoying themselves with a midafternoon drink,' he replied, snickering.
'Now that I've completed the task, it's my turn to ask someone again,' he remembered.
A glint of mischievousness flashed in his eyes as he turned to the queen.
'So Your Majesty--Sabé,' he corrected himself. 'Truth or Dare?'
Sabe raises a brow though unable to resist a smile of her own as the handmaidens giggle.
"I suppose I can't hold it against them considering there is little we can do at this time. However I suggest they don't make a habit of it.
She nods slightly as he remembers to pick someone to continue the game. Inwardly she begins her prayers once more but as his eyes falls onto her she knows this time the gods will not answer the way she wants.
However noting the mischeviousness found in them Sabe can't help but remain silent for a moment as she studies the padawan briefly as he prsents the question. He is rather handsome isn't he? She notices remembering Padme's joke before she departed with the Padawan's master, but swiftly she abomishes the thought. Growing thoughtful she pauses before offering a grin.
"Very well I choose dare."
In amusement, Obi-Wan crossed his arms, awaiting her decision.
"Very well I choose dare."
Dare, he thought. Dare, dare, dare...Something that would be--
'I dare you to go without all that makeup for the rest of the day,' he said.
And for a moment, he thought she would yell at him, refusing the dare and chastising him into oblivion. Perhaps this wasn't such a good idea...
She watches him curiously eager to see wht he would choose. But at his response her eyes widen slightly. This was an unexpected dare. One she is certain Rabe wouldn't be too pleased about it as she had spent much time placing the make-up on in the first place. Sure enough as her eyes flicker to Rabe she can almost feel the frustration and pout from her friend but Rabe hides it well though Eirtae has a raised brow as if reading into this more then she should. Ever the hopeless romantic you are she muses studying her friend briefly before returning the Jedi's gaze.
"Alright I accept your dare, although it may take a little while as such things do. So in the meantime. I will ask you if you wish to choose "truth or dare" and leave you to decide, while I complete the task you have asked of me."
She says formally though her eyes sparkle with mischief as well. She decides if she is going to do this she would need the assistances of her friends to work out the details of what sort of question she would ask the Padawan or what she may have him do.
Shouldn't someone else be going? he wondered, staring after her as she walked from the room.
Obi-Wan looked back at the two remaining handmaidens. 'So...' he said, striking up conversation with them. 'How long have you been in service to the queen? Did you serve the previous queen before Amidala? How does that work?'
Sabe rises to her feet and quietly turns to leave. As she pauses at the door she realizes her handmaidens have still remained. Just what is going on? She inwardly fumes and panics realizing how bad this look as she senses Obi-Wans eyes seem to follow her.
Visibly frowning she casts a sharp look to Rabe as she states in her darkest queen like tones.
"Handmaiden Rabe, if you may I would prefer your assistance. Handmaiden Eirtae if you please, do keep our 'guest' company."
Rabe blushes a bright crimson as she promptly bows to Sabe and quietly joins her as Eirtae who glows about a bright bows in reply.
Once in the hall alone with Rabe the decoy hisses.
"What are you two thinking!? He's certain to suspect someting for sure now!"
"I'm sorry Sabe we misread your orders."
Sabe rolls her eyes.
"Ah yes because you two were too busy casting eyes on the Jedi. Please for all of our sakes remember your place. Too much is at stake for mistakes."
She says firmly trying to inwardly deny the fact she too had been just as eager to cast eyes on Obi-Wan herself. Rabe now bright crimson nods.
"I will not fail you."
She says sheepishly obviously apologetic.
Eirtae on the other hand suddenly wishes she was with her sisters though she is certain to get a talk down once Sabe had her alone. How could I have been so foolish! She inwardly chastizes and panics at her mistake. But for the moment she would have to make due as best she can and at Obi-Wan's question she feels her cheeks flush further.
"We are actually hand trained from a young age to serve our queen. Most of us begin as early as eight years but some at late as twelve. We actually only serve the queen to whom we have been chosen to serve, in our case Amidala and we remain in service until she so chooses to dismiss us. Or we can choose to retire from her service should we wish to begin a family of our own. However even so exceptions have been made through the course of history though it is uncommon. Usually such things aren't encouraged but they aren't discouraged either for the Naboo regard family with very high esteem."
She pauses now curious herself.
"What about you? Do you serve the Jedi till the end of your days or is there a point to which you can depart from your duties of service?"
Obi-Wan failed to notice anything about the handmaidens following or not following their queen. He was having too much fun.
He listened dutifully to Eirtaé as she explained her service to the queen. He wondered why she hadn't been more specific about herself instead of including herself as a almost a commodity with the other girls.
'Yes,' he replied in answer to her question, deciding perhaps it was proper to include oneself with others. 'The Jedi are brought up in the temple and start training at even younger ages than of what you speak. We serve for life unless someone decides to leave, but they would be considered fallen Jedi, lost.' It really wasn't that hard to explain but he had a strange sense of forboding as he said these words.
Sabe meanwhile can't help but smirk a little as Rabe removes the heavy make-up frowning as she does so.
"So which one do you think he'll pick?"
She muses as Rabe shrugs slightly continuing her meticulous work.
"He did take a dare so maybe he'll take a truth this time."
She nods slightly as she furrows a brow.
"So what should I ask him?"
Rabe turns pensive and soon the two girls are brainstorming for dares and questions that could possibly be used for Obi-Wan.
Meanwhile Eirtae listens careful to his remarks putting them to memory as she is certain they will be curious about it later. As he explains the Jedi servitude her expression turns slightly dark as he speaks of the training. She is only too aware of the Jedi's interest in claiming infants, stealing them from their families for their rare talents. But out of respect and deceny she keeps this thought to herself as instead she focuses on the res of his words.
"Why are they considered fallen or lost?"
She inquires understanding the strict rules of servitude but finding it rather harsh that they wouldn't even be given the freedom to choose once they are old enough.
"If you'll forgive me for saying but it seems a bit like slavery. The fact you are forced into this life at an age too young to decide for yourself, only to be punished to deciding this isn't a path you wish to follow when you're old enough to choose."
She admits finally her expression troubled and perhaps a bit sad.
'No,' Obi-Wan replied, shaking his head. 'The younglings in the temple are trained to a certain age and if a master hasn't chosen them to be a padawan then they are sent away to farming or mining colonies. No one is forced into becoming a Jedi, it's the will of the Force.
'We're not slaves... It is a great honour.'
Obi-Wan was enthusiastic in speech though she didn't seem to understand. 'I'm sorry, but perhaps I am not explaining properly.'
She frowns slightly to his words her expression turning guarded as she replies cooly.
"A great honor? I imagine the families they are taken from feel a bit differently.
At least we were given the choice and we are still permitted to see our families."
She realizes that she is being borderline rude and blushes in reply.
"I'm sorry...Family is a very important aspect of Naboo culture. It breathes harmony to us you understand. When it is broken discord is permitted to take root."
Obi-Wan felt out of place and strange at her words. She made him feel like he was quite...inferior?...to the people Naboo.
He remained silent, but nodded thoughtfully at her words.
Eirtae falls silent realizing her error and unsure how to recover. But to her relief the door parts from behind them as Sabe slips in with Rabe in tow.
It takes no time for Sabe to pick up on the awkwardness that hangs in the air. Something happened that much was certain. Curious and a bit fearful what that might have been she cast Eirtae a silent look as if to say 'care to explain?' the handmaiden glances to her hands in reply and soon her eyes settle onto Obi-Wan as she feels her heart race. What is going on? She wants to ask if everything is okay to either of them but knows that would be inappropriate. Mentally she makes a note to learn the details from Eirtae later.
When Queen Amidala returned, free from the layers of makeup she always wore, Obi-Wan couldn't help staring at her.
Far from harsh or domineering, she was just...beautiful. He hadn't had much time the night before to really get a good look at her and now that he did, Obi-Wan couldn't look away.
Whatever uneasiness existed before the queen--Sabé's return, was promptly forgotton.
Sabe senses his eyes falling on her and though try as she might to keep her queen act up her cheeks warm slightly. He was staring and she couldn't be sure if that was a bad thing or not. But at least the tension had eased for the moment and for that she was grateful though curious. However now a new awkwardness begins to set in and Sabe only too concious of herself now offers a polite yet shy smile.
"I trust you have made your decision Obi-Wan?"
She says careful to pretend like she doesnt notice the fact he is still staring at her. Beside her Rabe stifles back a giggle as Eirtae grateful for the distraction politely joins the "queen" as she too bears a hint of a smile.
His eyes fell to the floor when she smiled at him.
Then she said his name and he looked back at her. 'I choose Truth, this time, Your Majesty.'
He glances away and Sabe can't help but feel a little sheepish for it but soon his gaze returns to her and she finds herself wanting to stare now herself. His eyes, so blue and so peaceful. Snapping her attentions to his question she turns thoughtful trying to pick which one she discussed with Rabe would be most suited.
Finally one comes to mind.
"Is it true that there is a meaning behind the colors chosen for your lightsabers? If so what do they represent and why have you choosen the color you now carry?"
'No, Your Highness,' Obi-Wan replied, 'there isn't any significance behind the colours. It depends on which crystals we use, but it's been over a millenium since we've had colours other than green or blue.'
He shrugged, but then added, thinking on one of the Truth questions posed to the queen. 'I like blue though.' He smirked.
They went a few more rounds before it seemed everyone was hungry. Obi-Wan offered to check on the two captains to see if they'd like something as well, hoping not to find them passed out....
She is surprised by his reply as Naboo culture held importance in color so taht every shade held a hidden meaning. Why this was she could not say but assumed it began during the days long before the Republic.
"What other colors are there? Outside of Green and Blue that is...And of course blood red."
She almost shivers as she speaks of the forbidden shade reminded of the dark legends it carried.
At his final comments she can't help but smile rather liking his smirk and the mirth it carried in his expression.
"It is a beautiful shade indeed."
She replied before the games continue and the memory of the awkward entrance forgotten. But in the end hunger won out and eventually they all parted ways that is until later that evening...
