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Missing Scenes
Post Attack of the Clones:Duty, Honour, and the Taste of Bacta
Two months after the Battle of Geonosis, two days after their mission on Naboo's n of Ohma-D'un, Obi-Wan and Anakin were finally back on Coruscant, much to Anakin's relief. Now he was finally able to check up on his wife and see that indeed Obi-Wan had been right, she had been perfectly safe while they tended to other matters, namely the colony of Gungans on Ohma-D'un that had been reported to have fallen victim to disgruntled spice miners attempting to steal the n.
Of course that had not been the case. While Anakin was sidetracked thinking about Padmé, Obi-Wan was so shaken with the hemorrhaging in the Living Force that it cause him to fall to his knees. All of them had been killed as part of an experiment. This chemical agent nearly killed Obi-Wan as well and left him in a bacta tank after the mission was completed.
As he walked the alleyways of Coruscant's restaurant and café district, he hoped he could find something that would get the taste of bacta out of his mouth that didn't taste ten times worse. In reality, he knew the only thing that would stop the smell and taste of bacta was time. Even so, this didn't stop him from showering longer than normal before heading out to find something to eat or drink.
Thoughts of their latest mission continued to plague him. There was something incomplete about Anakin's report. He had said something about a mysterious Dark Jedi, but Obi-Wan was sure there were only two at a time. Now there were three? That didn't make sense...
Sabé tried to keep as updated with the situation on the front as best she could. Though she already knew more than the general public or at least more than usual the former decoy found herself taking full advantage of her mistress interest in knowing of Anakin's statis. It had nothing to do with the Padawan himself but rather his Master. Though she was concerned for Obi-Wan's wellbeing she wasn't nearly as consumed by it as Padmé was for Anakin. But then again she surmised to herself long ago if Obi-Wan was even half as brilliant as his Padawan was when it came to rushing into battle without so much as a shred of common sense, she'd be worried sick too.
But something had happened to Obi-Wan and while Sabé wasn't trained enough in the Force to register what it was that she had felt Sabé knew something had gone wrong. She first felt this odd sensation a few days ago and was briefly distracted from her duties because of it's overwhelming strength. It was like a sinking feeling, an instinct that warned her of danger. Once she recovered from the shock, Sabé felt instantly on edge believing her instincts were warning her of trouble. She thought it had to do with a contact she was supposed to meet as part of her latest mission. However it wasn't and the feeling remained though gradually fading leaving her confused until she realized that when she first felt it, it was when she was remembering the last time she saw Obi-Wan. Only then did she register the fact this strange dread and danger only would return when she thought of the Jedi Knight which was more often than she'd care to admit.
To say she had little to no sleep since this discovery was an understatement. Sabé tried to be subtle about her actions and hide the concern and fear she felt all the while attempting to locate information on when Anakin would be returning to Coruscant for Padmé and in reality learning about Obi-Wan situation in the process. However while she managed to procur the date of their return Sabé wasn't able to learn the details of their mission. She could only pray that the gods and the Force kept watch over her dear friend during this troubling time.
Having just completed a meeting with Captain Typho and Padmé pertaining to the details of her latest mission Sabé decided she would pay the little shops of the café district a visit. It was her hope that one of the small tea houses would have some freshly imported Paonga seaweed from Naboo for her to purchase. It wasn't much, hardly what Sabé would refer to as helpful but she thought Obi-Wan might like some - that is if he was in good enough condition to enjoy it. The thought both worried and frustrated her. If only I could know that he's alright or at the very least on the mend from whatever happened to him Sabé thought in concern. Her only hope rested in the fact her instincts no longer carried the mysterious sense of dread and danger when she thought of him. But that is hardly a solid piece of information or anything to place much credence in she thought miserably to herself.
However she was unaware of the fact that this was indeed a very important sign of another sort. While the spiritual bond that bound them together was first woven on Tattooine all those years ago it had not waned during their years apart. Instead it was now growing ever stronger despite the distance and duties that kept them seperated. But to the unwitting handmaiden this was completely unknown and she didn't even register it as a sign of anything Force related but rather just 'gut instincts'.
But before she had time to dwell on this Sabé's thoughts took a lighter note as she practically beamed at the sight of the ever elusive dried Paonga seaweed. It was a rarity to say the least here and she was practically beside herself in joy at her luck at finding it. The last bit she managed to find for Obi-Wan during their surprise encounter wasn't much at all and she was quite pleased to discover this little shop had plenty of it at least for now.
But not for long she thought eagerly as she bought as much as she could before having it wrapped neatly in wax paper which only added the quaintness of the shop that in many ways reminded her of Thera. Thanking the shop keeper Sabé bowed politely and departed only to find herself picking up the familiar hum that always made her heart skip a beat. Letting her eyes drift through the crowds she tried to clear her thoughts and follow the direction of the hum. Soon she was sifting through the crowds until the Jedi Knight came into view causing her to visibly sigh in relief. If he was wounded it didn't show, not that it meant he was never in danger or even harmed but he was okay now and that brought her much relief.
Sabé tried to subtly approach to make it appear as natural as possible lest she draw inappropriate amounts of attention or worse give excuses for malicious gossip.
Without a specific idea in mind as to how to get rid of the awful bacta taste, nor a particular food or beverage in mind, Obi-Wan wandered aimlessly through the district. His thoughts continued drifting to the mission, trying to piece together the mystery of the Sith.
It came as a shock when Anakin mentioned they had both engaged this warrior. The virus had so worked its way into his system that Obi-Wan couldn't even remember the duel. After the bacta submersion and slow recovery, the memories started coming back to him.
No, no, it wasn't a Sith Lord, the girl hadn't even been trained. But she was very much consumed by the Dark Side. It had felt tragic. Tragic...but he couldn't remember much more than that. It was a good thing Anakin had arrived in time, or he would have been a casualty of Separatist commander's vengeance.
But as he passed a small restaurant catered to Aqualish tastes, something stopped him. It was a familiar hum in the Force. He closed his eyes sensing it more intensely, a small smile working its way onto his features. She was close by. In fact, he could easily pinpoint her location, but he did not want to startle her. Just feeling the warmth of her presence was soothing to him.
Obi-Wan continued through the crowd, though making an effort to head in the direction of her Force signature. When he spotted her, his eyes lit up. Innocent as his intentions and thoughts were, he didn't think twice about going over to greet his friend.
'Lady Sabé,' he said, bowing deeply in greeting, using her title since they were in a public setting. 'It is good to see you again. I trust you are well?' After all he had been through the past few days, it was good to see a familiar, friendly face and his expression showed it.
Sabé noticed with much joy that it didn't take too long before the Jedi knight caught sight of her. However unlike the handmaiden he was not so fearful to hide their friendship and this too was a bit of a relief to Sabé who was never quite sure how mindful to be of their friendship when in the public. She noticed how happy he was to see her and soon realized his expression reflected her own. Blushing slightly she bowed in greeting to him as well as she smiled to him kindly.
"Jedi Kenobi, it's a relief to see you are well!"
She said in friendly tones before blushing further as she realized she had accidently slipped in her choice of words and admitted to being concerned. Great gods! She thought in utter embarrassment hoping he wouldn't press the matter further she'd hate to admit she was all fearful for his safety becuase of a gut feeling.
At his question she smiled and nodded.
"I'm doing fine. How about you? How did your mission go?"
She asked unable to hide her curiousity.
As he was so happy to see her, he missed the hint that she knew something had happened to him during the course of the mission and asked her how she was.
He then answered her query eagerly. 'It was a success for the Republic,' he said, mentioning how Anakin stopped a deadly bioweapon from crashing into Theed, saving millions of lives, but he left off the part about how he faced the Separatist Commander and Dark Jedi apprentice. He also left off the fact that he had been infected by the chemical agent.
The woman's voice came to the forefront of his thoughts. Laced with misery and suffering, she said ...the Jedi I once worshipped are nothing but weak, misguided fools. Dooku speaks the truth when he says the galaxy needs a Jedi purge.
Obi-Wan quickly shook these dark memeories that were coming back to him in order to focus on the woman standing in front of him. Sabé brought many more pleasant memories than that foresaken Jedi.
Sabé sighed in relief to his words pleased to know that their mission proved successful. But as he spoke of the bio-weapon that was meant for Theed her expression turned concerned. It couldn't have been as easy as he had made it sound and at the memory of the strangely overwhelming sense of danger and dread Sabé found herself once mroe speaking without considering how foolish her thoughts would sound to him.
"I'm glad to know your mission was a success, I was so worried for a bit there. I couldn't help it, I just had this sinking feeling that something had gone terribly wrong, that you were in trouble. But when I tried to find out the situation pertaining to your mission a couple of days ago it was all classified."
She blushed deeply realizing how she sounded so much like Padmé getting all worried over nothing. But then it was in her friend's nature to fear for everyone else's safety but her own whether they were in danger or not.
"But you know how it is...It's the handmaiden in me I guess, sometimes instincts get the better of me and I turn all paranoid thinking theres threats coming from every corner..."
Sabé explained sheepishly trying to appear less foolish than she felt but failing miserably.
"And I'm babbling...Sorry..."
She said as her cheeks lit on fire and her eyes fell to the wrapped package in her hand. She wanted to offer it to him now but wasn't sure if that would just make things worse as though making it look like a 'get well' gift. Which perhaps it was in some ways although she'd rather think of it as a 'welcome home' gift herself.
At her mention of the dread she felt, something within him told him this was important, though he was unsure why. He knew they had a sort of bond via the Force, though she had not been trained in its ways, but did not yet know the significance figuring it was only because of their friendship, nothing beyond that.
But then much more pleasant memories took over.
'This part of the garden reminds me of Naboo.'
'It's perfect. Just like home.'
And memories of the kiss they shared brought a blush to his cheeks, still not realising the full weight of this connection.
Not wanting her to have any inclination that he thought she was silly for being anxious, he couldn't help admitting that her foreboding was not in vain and told her what had happened, but that he was fine now. All the while, his blush refused to leave his face. 'So I just wanted you to know that, and now I'm babbling....'
Sabé could feel his contentment but didn't equate to anything more than the fact he was happy to see an old friend and that he was home again. Although this thought made her think of the gardens as she wondered if perhaps there was a slim chance that they would have time to share a walk in little Naboo before he departed on his next mission. But the thought soon faded as she explained her anxiety's before turning crimson as she realized she admitted to her paranoid instincts nevermind babbling to him.
But this promptly faded as he proceeded to explain that he was infected by the bio-weapon which caused her eyes to widen in concern.
"Oh by the gods, you are certain that you're alright? What if it’s still in your bloodstream resting dormant until a future time."
She asked as she furrowed her brow in both fear and concern. It was strange to say the least that her gut instincts seemed to have sensed danger just as he was exposed to it. But even so Sabé didn't place the connection and just assumed perhaps it was still due to her over protective nature. Although deep down something told her there was more to this than just a mere gut instinct however she had yet to understand what that was.
As he concluded that he was babbling Sabé shook her head as she gave him a shy smile.
"Oh no you're definitely not babbling. Good gods I'm so relieved to learn that you managed to get to safety in time. I just hope there virus was completely removed from your blood. Especially considering it’s a bio-weapon, I hope it wasn't immune to the normal forms of healing."
She explained before blushing deeply as she remembered the small package in her hands. Biting her lip she gave another shy smile before gently offering it to him.
"I um…Well I thought you might…its dried Paonga seaweed.
Hardly a ‘welcome home’ gift or in this case a ‘get well’ present, but I figured you probably ran out since the last time we saw each other…And I just happened to stumble on some just now and thought…”
Oh wonderful here I go fumbling over my words and babbling again Sabé inwardly groused as she turned sheepish. Thank the gods he’s far too gracious to openly laugh in my face she thought as her cheeks burned red.
“Nevermind what I thought. I just hope you enjoy it; I made sure it was a fresh import. Wouldn’t do to have you choking on old leaves, as they can be pretty potent if left to dry for too long.”
She continued before finally falling silent as glanced away from him while her free hand slipped to the ribbon on her blade. Why is it sometimes I’m completely fine around him and other times I’m a bumbling idiot? She thought in frustration not realizing it had something to do with her thoughts of the Jedi temple gardens and her hopes of returning there and subsequently the unconscious memory of her first visit there.
'No, it was completely removed; there's no need to worry,' he assured her, though it was endearing that she would even think on it.
Should anyone else have witnessed their encounter, it would have been obvious that there was certainly more to their relationship in addition to friendship. Their mutual blushes said everything they would not verbally express. But to the two of them, it was nothing more than a meeting of old friends, clueless as they were about the extent of that friendship.
They had both made sacrifices, willingly keeping the secret of his padawan and her mistress, a burden made easier since they were able to share it. It was extremely hard to get past how unfair it was, that they strictly adhered to the occupations they served, yet were unable to admit their feelings let alone acknowledge them, while Anakin and Padmé continued their clandestine marriage without so much as a second thought to the duties they were sworn. It was almost as if they were being rewarded for their lack of caring.
Obi-Wan had thought at first that he had been leading Sabé on, that he was only hurting her by continuing their chance meetings and conversations, but he had come to realise that she too was in the same position, just as fiercely loyal to her duties, which would always come first for her as well, that she did not intend to ask of him things that he would be unable to commit to. Their mutual understanding, was on so many levels, some that he did not yet know of, deeper than any other. And it was for this reason that he graciously accepted her gift of the Pagoda tea.
'Who knows, it just might get this taste of bacta out of my mouth. It's disgusting,' he joked, shaking his head. He knew the chances were slim to none that the tea would help. Time was the only thing that would remove it. 'I don't suppose you have free time today, do you?' he asked, hoping they would have a chance to catch up, though thouroughly appreciating the fact he was able to see her even if only in passing.
Sabé was unable to hide her relief at his words as she turned shy realizing how silly her concern must sound to him. After all no doubt they were probably more than prepared for such an event and had an antidote ready.
"Thats a relief! It's good to see you all the same back on your feet agian."
She remarked gently as she was completely unaware that their burning cheeks spoke volumes that everyone else would be able to witness; save themselves. Though it wasn't something she was aware of as Sabé only conciously viewed him as an old friend (or so she had come to tell herself) she was aware of how this might look and took great care so as not to jeapordize his good name and his code of honour. After all, while her best friend and her husband might through it to the wind because they felt their love was above such things Sabé felt duty surpassed all else and would never consider such thoughts. It was such a relief to know Obi-Wan shared her views on the matter although deep down it was a little frustrating to know that while they placed their own positions at risk for their friends happiness they didn't even seem grateful for it. Sabé knew Padmé certainly was but it annoyed her that Anakin really beleived he could get away with this without considering the damage it could potentially cause his wife nevermind his poor Master.
But for the moment she didnt' let this bother her further as she was far too happy to see Obi-Wan safe and properly healed. Especially after learning her gut instincts had proven correct (despite how much she wished it wasn't). As he accept her gift Sabé once more thanked the gods he was far too gracious to laugh at her fumbling of words once more though his joking about the bacta caused her to grin as she giggled.
"I'm sorry to dissappoint you but I don't think anything is strong enough to get that nasty taste out. Although admitly I've never had the misfortune of having to taste it in the first place."
She said once more so relieved to know he was well enough to still have his humour. AT his question Sabé's eyes lit up as her heart skipped a beat. Maybe gods or Force willing they could have some time to perhaps go on a walk or at the very least catch up. While she was grateful for this brief moment any extra time they could share together would certainly not be unwelcomed.
"As far as I know I think my afternoon is pretty much free for the time being anyways."
She admitted as she mentally recalled the fact her afternoon class at the Dojo was cancelled because they were doing some maintance on the wooden floors. Strange what started as an annoyance suddenly turned intoa hopeful blessing.
"I don't suppose you have any other commitments this afternood would you?"
She asked shyly hoping his schedule would match hers.
'And let's hope you never have to,' he replied to her comment about bacta.
When she mentioned that her schedule had a space of free time, he was pleased, and did not bother concealing it.
'My afternoon is free as well,' he said, but added with the smile he didn't know he reserved just for her, 'for the time being.' Obi-Wan sent her a wink which would easily go unnoticed by passerby.
He thought quickly on his feet about someplace they might be able to go where they could speak more candidly but would not arose unfounded suspicion. 'May I interest you in a walking tour of the botanical gardens?' he asked, knowing it was not too far to get there and it would be private.
Sabé bowed her head graciously to Obi-Wan's comments as she gave him a kind smile.
"I hope you never have to again either. I imagine once is more than enough."
Her heart skipped a beat as he admitted that his afternoon was free as well. She couldn't have thanked the gods more for this rare oppertunity if she wanted to. Between his words and his smile that was only matched by his subtle wink Sabé felt strangely light headed and giddy with joy. But she promptly just shrugged it off to the fact she was so relieved that he was okay and that they were able to spend some time together which was a rarity to say the least.
At the invitation to join him in the botanical gardens Sabé's eyes lit up.
"I've never been there before, I'd love to see it that is if you don't mind showing me. I've heard so many wonderful things about it but haven't really had the opportunity to visit them myself."
She admitted finding this idea to be quite delightful.
'And here, I thought you had probably been there so many times you'd be sick of it,' he admitted, feeling a bit foolish for having assumed it. 'Not that I meant to imply you had that much free time on your hands,' he added swiftly in apology for his brash words.
Obi-Wan had the urge to offer his arm to her as they walked, but resisted, wanting to touch, but not daring lest it be deemed inappropriate in others' eyes.
But once they were well within the sanctity of the enclosed gardens, walking amongst the shubbery, it seemed like it would be all right, though they were now so used to walking side-by-side it didn't flow well to abruptly offer. This did not, however, prevent him from walking closer than when they were in the market. He pointed out the various foliage he was familiar with, but didn't touch upon more personal subject matter until they were well out of earshot of anyone who might be interested in the pair.
In a lower tone which carried more emotional weight, he asked her seriously, 'How have you been?'
Sabé blushed looking a little sheepish.
"I only wish."
She replied before she smiled and shook her head at his apology.
"Oh it's alright, you didn't know."
As they entered the garden's Sabé breathed in deeply as her thoughts turned back to 'little Naboo' and with it came the memory of their first kiss. Instantly she glanced away feeling her cheeks warm. Sabé told herself she would not dishonour his good name by dwelling on such fanciful things as she feared it would only encourage temptation and would discredit their oaths they served and honored. So promptly she buried them once more though it was difficult to say the least.
As they began to wander through the gardens Sabé noted his close proximity but didn't think anything of it beyond the fact they were friends talking quietly amongst themselves so as not to intrupt anyone who might be visiting. His explanation of the differant plants was intriguing to say the least and Sabé was more than eager to learn as she listened intently.
But once they were out of earshot his words turned more serious and this made her a little concious of herself as Sabé offered a shy smile noting she wanted to ask him much the same.
"I've been fine. Outside of being worried about you these past few days I've just been busy with my duties.
What about you? I mean outside of your last mission, how have you been doing? It seems so long since we last spoke I'm eager to hear about everything that has happened to you lately"
She replied her eyes dancing with curiousity and kindness as she studied him for a moment.
When she mentioned worrying about him had weighed so heavily on her mind, he felt a mixture of honour and guilt for having caused her to worry. But before he had a chance to apologise for it, she was asking him how he was.
'Same concerns as you, really. Trying to keep order in the Republic, and with my padawan.' He shrugged a bit embarrassed since it was a rare occassion anyone asked about him personally. Actually, now that he thought about, outside of the few times Anakin asked if he was all right, Sabé was the only one who made the effort to ask, let alone care...
Obi-Wan was not normally one to talk much about himself or his experiences outside of teaching. He didn't know this, but it was probably due to the fact anything he said was rarely listened to and most of the times he tried to make an effort to speak, the words went in one ear and out the other as if what he had to say bore no weight.
Despite it being less than their ten-year separation, he found he had missed Sabé just as much if not more than he had before. It felt so easy with her, despite the few tripped over words, she was someone he felt he could be truly open and honest with, without judgement. She was not afraid to speak her mind and he was not afraid to do the same. Her friendship gave him a kind of courage he never knew was lacking and it is with this in mind that without second thought he offered his arm to her. He would not have noticed if anyone was watching them.
Sabé found his casual response only to add to her curiousity. Although it also made her feel a bit defensive of him when he gave such replies. When she first met him Sabé thought he was just being nonchalant, but soon discovered from observation that much of this behavior stemmed from the fact no one had the good sense to listen to his words. It baffled and annoyed her to think that so many would pay such little heed to this wise Knight. Even in her early days as a decoy Sabé found his words to bear much truth and during their years apart there was many moments when his words of wisdom helped her through tight situations. Nevermind the fact he knew so much about the universe and didn't look down upon her when she wanted him to share his experiences. There was no showing off or need to exaggerate and this too was greatly appriciated by Sabé who had no patience for such nonsense. More importantly he valued the strength of silence as well as speach and when it was time to observe or act.
It was just a few of the many traits she had come to enjoy about him. She never could quite put her finger on it but she couldn't help but feel as though he really understood her. PErhaps even better than she understood herself. While Padmé knew almost everything Sabé thought there was to know about her they were so differant in personality and it often showed. While Sabé would always regard her as her bestfriend and surragate sister she had to admit she was far more content and comfortable around Obi-Wan. Though she was not aware of it nor would she be until some time later he was like the other half of her soul and the growing bond between them.
But for now Sabé was far too content to have been able to be given this chance, this honour to call him her friend that she never considered or was even understanding of the deeper feelings that lied beneath.
At his gentle invitation of his arm Sabé blushed deeply and turned shy. It wasn't any inappropriate, nor would it be considered offensive yet she was concerned for his good name all the same. But the thought soon slipped away as she surmised that he would not offer this gesture if he felt it would be reflected poorly. So she bowed slightly as she gave him a shy smile as her eyes shone, before gently accepting. Her heart skipped a beat and Sabé couldn't quite explain why, as he was now but a dear friend (or so she conciously told herself). But suddenly time felt as though it had slowed and things around them just seemed to fade into the background as though there was only him and her. It caused her cheeks to flush slightly though she couldn't quite fully understand why except the fact she rather enjoyed the shared company of her dear friend.
The slight hesitation on her part when he offered his arm to her did not go unnoticed, but she so graciously bowed, smiling before accepting. The touch of her hand sent that all-too-familiar, welcomed thrill through him though he could not explain what it was.
No, no that wasn't completely accurate. Ever since that afternoon when they had been in the Garden of a Thousand Fountains, when they kissed, he had been coming closer to learning that secret, the secret first initiated all those years ago on Tatooine...
Obi-Wan couldn't help stealing a glance at her as they meandered through the garden. In that brief glance of her profile, he saw the past, and the future. He saw her in the decoy garb, offering him a mischievous smile over Paonga tea then compassion before the Battle of Naboo. He saw her with greying hair and the same dark eyes, beautiful... The images were so brief and swift that he was unable to make sense of them, but he was left with the sense that this woman, his friend, would be there walking by his side for the rest of his life.
He began telling her in more detail about what had happened since they last saw each other. He spoke of various frustrations with Anakin, which had nothing to do with the senator, some hilarious mishaps, and things that made him proud, especially how Anakin had last got him to safety in time for the lovely bacta immersion. But he also spoke of the new Dark Jedi apprentice and how he hoped to find the antitode to the bioweapon which had infected him so they could save more lives.
When he noticed he had been doing quite a bit of talking, he fell silent, but though slightly embarrassed, he looked over at her again, his courage returning once more. 'I hope this doesn't sound too forward, but I want you to know that--'
He had often thought of her on these missions, more than he would ever admit aloud. He wanted her to know...to know that though he served the Jedi Order, he wanted his accomplishments to bring her honour...to know that thoughts of her encouraged him to strive to be a better Jedi.
Stopping in his tracks, he admitted, 'During the missions, thinking of you has often given me strength and encouragement...' It had in truth assisted him through some trying times to say the least, but thought it might be disrespectful to mention the full weight of these thoughts, especially so unabashadly, or so he assumed, for he could not see how deep the blush was on his own cheeks.
Sabé caught his glance and subtly returned as a hidden smile one that was only meant for him played on her lips. Though unaware of what he had witnessed in that passing glance Sabé found herself growing pensive as well. She thought of the first time they held hands to the first time they kissed. Though it wasn't something she wanted to ponder on they came unbidden and with it came a feeling that something was falling into place. Like a turning of the key to a lock that was not yet opened but would be soon. It was a similiar thought to what she felt years ago and it left her feeling intrigued and yet patient. She would learn of its meaning when the moment was right and with this thought brought about a sense of peace.
Then Obi-Wan began to speak of his experiences since they last parted ways some time ago. Enraptured Sabé listened with great interest finding his missions to be quite fascinating just as she found the mishaps to be quite amusing. The Jedi knight before her was wonderful at the retelling of his adventures and it didnt' take much for Sabé to become lost in the worlds and experiences he spoke about. She felt his frustrations and his pride for Anakin and with it came a better understanding of the Padawan she struggled to accept as her bestfriend's husband. Though this was a friendly conversation Sabé found herself learning much through Obi-Wan's words. How he reacted in differant situations and how he handled his Padawan in others gave her valuable lessons that she would come to use in the near future. But this was nothing new to her for even in their early days when she was but a Decoy the Jedi Padawan she befriended on Tatooine had a way of teaching her without teaching. His actions coincided with his words and it encouraged Sabé to live her life in after this fashion. Just as his wisdom became the powerful guidelines that helped her throughout their years apart and even now.
But as he spoke of the Dark Jedi apprentice she grew concerned for his safety, while at the same time his hope for finding an antidote made her want to go out her way to assist him in his quest. However she kept her thoughts to herself for the moment until he fell silent as she was caught up with all she had missed. Only then did she quietly speak her eyes kind and filled with gentle joy at the thought at have been given this chance to hear his thoughts so openly.
"Thank you for sharing this with me. I always love hearing about your missions and your experiences. They are so enriching. I know you probably think me silly for saying this, but I've always found they hold so much wisdom in them."
She blushed though she couldn't help but smile as she noted his cheeks looked as warm as her felt. She wanted to ask if there was any way she could help him find more information pertaining to this mysterious dark Jedi or perhaps anything to do with the antidote but she held thoughts for the moment as he spoke once more.
Pausing as he did Sabé felt herself losing all train of thought to his admittance. His words were both touching and yet so powerful. She didn't know what to say or how to respond. She felt so moved and so humbled by them that she could only bow her head in reply as her cheeks warmed further. In that moment Sabé wondered if he knew that her thoughts about him weren't so different.
"Jedi Kenobi- Obi-Wan...I don't know what to say. I know you are not one who makes such statements lightly. While I hardly feel I am worthy of such words; I am deeply moved and greatly honoured by them."
She said finally after a moment of silence. Her eyes now filled with a look of humble gratitude and something else that even she didn't realize matched the shy smile that played on her lips. She studied him for a moment, noting his blushing cheeks which made her heart swell that much more.
"You are by far the wisest and most honourable man I know Obi-Wan. I wish I knew of a way to repay you for all the wisdom and insight you have given me, but I don't and for that I am most apologetic. For what you have given me is by far the greatest gift I could have ever asked for, save for the honour of being able to call you my friend."
She said gently her voice heavy with sincerity and shy gratitude.
If anyone in the galaxy could match Obi-Wan's humble nature, it was Sabé Nabish. She was such a remarkable woman. Every time she spoke her mind to him or admitted she thought she was being silly, he wanted to insist vehemently that nothing she had to say would be taken lightly, nor dismissed calously. He always valued her opinions and appreciated her candidness.
Though he never viewed himself as wise, despite Qui-Gon's pronouncement that he saw Obi-Wan as a wise man. He knew he had more things to learn and still had room to grow. Obi-Wan saw mistakes and failures in his own accomplishments, things that could have gone better. Wise was not a word he would use to describe himself, but coming from her lips, he felt there must be some truth to it, at least from her point of view.
Her words, though as simple as his own, carried much weight and the look in her dark, shining eyes spoke to him on a deeper level than he was consciously aware of. The warmth in her voice unlocked something within him causing him to suddenly feel a flood of sensations from her that he had not felt so powerfully before. He thought at first that it might be pollen from the flowers or something external affecting his senses and Force abilities, but as he examined her expression, gazing into her eyes, he knew the truth.
It was a shock. He didn't realise the shocked expression shown on his face or that it could be misconstrued as a reaction to her words, but he paused as if shaken by a Force vision.
I'm falling in love with her. I am in love with her. No, I've loved her for so long... The shock wore away to a heartening sense of peace at the realisation. His eyes softened and a small smile crept onto his face. I love her.
Sabé felt shy at her admittance and yet she couldn't help but speak her thoughts openly with him. It was one of the many things she appriciated about him but as she noted his strange reaction Sabé didn't know what to think. Did I just offend him somehow? She inwardly feared wondering what she said that was so inappropriate to cause sucha reaction. He looked almost dazed or shocked. But this thought soon passed at his silence as she felt his eyes studying her closely. However having no idea of what was happening Sabé grew fearful.
Perhaps the antidote they gave him didn't completely remove the virus she inwardly feared as she gently placed a hand to his shoulder and quietly spoke.
"Obi-Wan? Are you okay? Is everything alright?"
She then fell silent wondering if perhaps he was witnessing some sort of vision through the Force. For his eyes seemed to soften and a small smile crept into his features. Had she not been so concerned for his wellbeing she would have rather enjoyed how he looked in that moment. However she was torn between trying to help him and letting him be. For if it was the virus he would need medical help and soon. But if it was a Force vision than it was not her place to interfere with whatever message was meant for him to witness.
The emotions shifted and changed to fear and concern which snapped him out of his daze. The touch of her hand on his shoulder brought his own feelings to the forefront of his thoughts and he began to admit, 'I just realised that I--I'm in--' But he could not finish this statement because of what it meant, what it could mean, what it could possibly do to her. For if she were to hear it from him, to verbally confirm his feelings, this might change her mind about asking things from him that he could not commit to. It was this fear that stopped him short, ableit extremely reluctantly.
But he did not know that this new sensation, this ability to read her emotions so well was through their mutual bond, that it went both ways, skilled or unskilled in the ways of the Force.
'I didn't mean for you to worry, I'm sorry--' he apologised. 'I'm fine.' His hand moved of its own accord, covering hers that restedon his shoulder. His eyes looked to his hand then back at her, feeling that spark and knowing what it meant...it was such a revelation. He wanted to share it with her, but the words were held back desperately by his 'common sense' which insisted it was beyond inappropriate and extremely dangerous. His heart disagreed with his logical brain. He never felt more at ease or at peace when she was by his side, as if everything in the galaxy suddenly made sense.
Obi-Wan took her hand from his shoulder and kissed it, leaving his hand in hers, finding walking like this was even better than arm-in-arm.
Though initially she was concerned by his strange behavior the handmaiden found herself falling silent as he began to speak but paused. She could feel his emotions like waves gently lapping at her thoughts; at her heart. While his discovery came as a sudden shock, for Sabé the feeling was much slower. It took her a moment to understand what it was she felt right then, but as Obi-Wan's hand moved over hers Sabé found her eyes studying his deeply and within them the answer came.
So much was revealed in his blue eyes and for the first time the secrets they once held were slowly revealing themselves. The time was right for her to learn and in doing so, Sabé learnt of the secrets she held within but did not understand. A slow smile crept into her features and unconsciously her cheeks warmed as she bowed her head humbly in response to what she saw. But like the Jedi Knight before her the handmaiden chose to remain silent.
While this gift was meant to be shared, in this moment it was not meant to find words. To do so would only unnecessarily complicate things. So while Sabé's heart sang in joy and her eyes danced with the secrets now known, her true feelings never reached her lips.
"I think I understand."
Was the only reply she gave in response to his words and in them carried a million messages that would remain unspoken until the time was right. Sabé blushed further and gave as shy smile as he took her hand and kissed it. Though moved beyond the use of words in that moment Sabé was more than content to just hold his hand to just enjoy his presence and the new discovery of her feelings for him.
Obi-Wan didn't have to ask what she meant when she said she understood because it was clear to him now the full extent of this revelation, that indeed this went both ways and she too was able to sense his feelings as well as he could her own.
While it had come to him as a blunt shock, it seemed to open up to her like a blossom in the sun, slowly but surely and in its own time. Now with this connection they shared, it increased their ability to enjoy each other's company without words. Though the sight of the beautiful foliage around them paled in comparison to their revelation, it was a pleasure to be able to sense what the other was feeling, possibly infer what they were thinking, by the mere slightest touch to the Force.
They came upon a wooded area with a fountain and a long stone seat which was just as much decoration as it was for relaxation. He thought perhaps she might want to take a break since they had been walking quite awhile and he didn't know how long she had been wandering the café district before they found each other.
Sitting next to her reminded him intrinsically of the garden in Naboo, the night before he left the planet with Anakin as his new padawan. He recalled the feel of the grass between his toes and the simple exchange of his padawan braid for her clasp. It was such a small gesture, but one that meant so much more than they had even intended at the time. For even now, he was aware that the very same braid was hidden in the ribbon of her katana.
As his thumb rolled over the hand he held, he examined her profile, the exquisitely done hairstyle that he couldn't even imagine how it was made, her dark eyes which always seemed to hold a secret in them that he was only now meant to discover, her finely shaped cheekbones, nose, her full lips, her slender neck... and all of this made him want to embrace her again though he shyly restrained himself, content with the feel of her hand in his.
The other part of him was about to remark on some aspect of their surroundings, trivial as it was in comparison to their revelations, for he did not know what to say. He feared to speak lest he say what exactly he had realised, despite the fact she already knew and from what he could tell, she reciprocated.
Sabé was grateful for the silence as it seemed to only add to their mutual discovery rather than take away from it. Quietly she just enjoyed his peaceful presence grateful to be able to share this moment, this understanding all the while knowing that despite their feelings they would always respect the other's duties and Oaths.
Though she was not trained nor familiar with the use of the Force Sabé could still feel his emotions and the peaceful aura that always seemed to surround him. It made her feel so blessed to be able to experience this just as it humbled her as well. She glanced to him at this thought and gave a smile as she gently squeezed his hand.
As they approached a wooded area with a fountain Sabé too was reminded of Little Naboo. Though it was not nearly as accurate it in its design as it was at the Jedi Temple it was close enough to bring back memories of home. It wasn't until she sat beside him that she finally realized she was more tired of walking than she thought. As always his timing was perfect and once she sat next to him on the stone seat Sabé quietly slipped off her shoes and let her bare toes be buried in the grass. It felt wonderful though she couldn't help but blush shyly as she felt his eyes fall onto her. His thumb rolled over the hand he held and soon she responded in kind as she let her eyes drift to him. This was so much like the early days when they were just getting to know each other and yet it was so differant, but equally wonderful.
She could see his hesitation in his eyes and wondered briefly if there was something he wished to say but couldn't bring himself to do so. At this thought Sabé gave a gentle smile as if telling him that it was alright, that the words will come when the moment was right. As if confirming this train of thought the former decoy hesistated for but a moment herself before giving in to her hearts desire as she gently rested her head on his shoulder as she smiled and briefly closed her eyes in contentment.
As much as he wanted to follow suit and remove his boots to feel the grass between his toes, he resisted the urge for unlike his newly knighted self, he was quite aware of how odd it would look should someone spot him. This didn't, however, prevent him from smiling as she did so.
He was grateful when she silently reassured him that it was all right not to make polite conversation for now they were better able to open up to this revelation of silent communication he had always thought they excelled at. Now it was even more powerful than before.
When Sabé rested her head on his shoulder, he ought to have felt awkward or moved away, but he didn't. Instead, he leant his head against hers, unaware that she had closed her eyes as well, for this was Peace.
This was yet another of those moments he would carry with him through battles, through his life. Obi-Wan's hand in hers, the warmth of her side against his, the way she so gently rested her head on his shoulder, but most of all, he would remember this sense of contentment and peace, the reason they were fighting the Clone Wars. All of the battles were to reach this.
While she understood his hesitancy about joining her in this action as it would appear strange, Sabé was grateful that he didn't laugh or tease her for her unabashed enjoyment of being barefoot in the grass. But he always understood such things and for that Sabé was grateful.
The silence between them spoke such volumes that Sabé found herself content just to remain there for a time to listen to all that couldn't be said. It was wonderful and even more so was being able to just rest her head on his shoulder and enjoy all that was considered to be harmony. However just when Sabé thought this moment couldn't become anymore wonderful she felt his head lean against hers. Though her eyes remained close the smile on her lips widen as she gave his hand a squeeze in response.
She wondered if the realms of Harmony was this peaceful and soon decided that even it would pale by comparison to how she felt in this moment.
But as with all happiness it was short lived and Sabé heard the sound of voice talking amongst themselves quietly but slowly nearing. Though she tried not to listen in she could tell by the conversation that it was a couple who were obviously enjoying the peaceful presence of the gardens as she could hear a female voice expressing her love of the flowers around them. Her eyes opened and she couldn't resist a soft sigh. She would have liked to have been able to enjoy this moment of peace longer but she knew the strangers were approaching and soon was slipping her shoes on and reluctantly drawing herself away from Obi-Wan.
Obi-Wan picked up on the nearing voices before Sabé did, but was reluctant to let the moment end. They simultaneously moved away from each other and he stood as she pulled her shoes back on.
He folded his arms up in his cloak so as to make it easier to resist the temptation to reach for her hand again.
The figures appeared, walking towards the fountain and Obi-Wan recognised the man as a security officer for the Corellian politicians, speaking a few phrases of Old Correlian which sounded like poetry.
The woman clasped her hands over her mouth in shock and happiness. 'Yes! Yes!' She threw her arms around him and the man spun her around kissing her.
Obi-Wan averted his gaze and suggested to Sabé without words that they continue on their tour of the gardens, giving the other couple privacy.
All too soon the tour had ended and they had to part their separate ways. He bowed to her, thanking her for the tea and the company, expressing his desire that the Force would allow their paths to cross again soon. Of course he couldn't help but cast another look after her, sending her a secret smile.
She promptly rose to her feet almost as soon as he did and couldn't help but cast a glance in the direction of the couple after they moved past them. She didn't understand what they were saying but she blushed all the same feeling the need to move on just as Obi-Wan gave her a look that mirrored her thoughts on the matter.
Sabé tried to ignore the strange wistful feeling she had at the image of the couple together and swiftly reminded herself that duty always came first. She took comfort where she could in this fact and in the brief moments of peace she was able to share with Jedi Knight beside her. Force willing perhaps there would be other moments where they could share each others company as they had today.
But only too soon the walk drew to an end and Sabé knew it was time to depart. Bowing to him in reply Sabé blushed as he thanked her for the tea and the company. She thanked him as well for permitting her to share his company and for the lovely tour and agreed whole heartedly in his desire and hope that the Force would permit their paths to once more cross and soon.
However before they completely went their seperate ways Sabé caught his glance and returned the secret smile with one of her own as she once again she put everything about his expression to memory. For even though they could not be together in the same sense the Corellian couple was Sabé was grateful to know that it didn't mean their feelings were any less for it. With this thought in mind she returned to her quarters feeling more at peace and at ease than she had in a very long time.
