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Missing Scenes
Post Revenge of the Sith: Recovery
Obi-Wan eventually, reluctantly peeled himself away from his fianceé and was able to get to Mos Eisley before the shops closed for the afternoon. The bacta and painkill shots seemed to really work wonders as over the next week or so, Sabé's wounds were healing nicely and she was returning to full health. It also helped that Mrs. Darklighter insisted on coming over to prepare a few hearty meals for her.
Today he awoke in much the same fashion as he had since their return from Naboo. Sabé was asleep in his arms and he smiled down at her sleeping form, running his hand through her hair.
Sabe was loathed to have him depart for Mos Eisley but in the end was grateful he did. Though she didn't feel as bad as she had during those fateful days on Naboo she soon learnt first hand that her wounds were far more serious then she had given them credit for. For in his absense having awoken from a nightmare Sabe disoriented got it in her head that despite Obi-Wan's warnings she just had to find her swords.
Clambering and stumbling out of the bed she frantically searched the room for the blades and came out with nothing. Practically in tears from the pain brought on by her rash movements that only served to tear open many of her wounds and from the panic of nothing having the blades Sabe finally half stumbled, half crawled into the living room. It took an eternity of painstaking movements followed by long rests against the couch and center table before her eyes finally found them resting neatly resting by the foresaken box that held Anakin's old lightsaber.
Shaking from the pain and lightheaded from the spilling blood from her reopened wounds which that now soaked her garbs Sabe came within reach of the blades. Feeling as though she had just emerged from a battle of sorts her eyes settled onto the simple box and she couldn't help but scowl as though it contained the dark essense of Lord Vader himself within.
"It will...take more...then that Lord Vader...To be rid of me..."
She murmured venomously her thoughts still lost in the memory of the nightmare she had awoken from some time ago. Then with weak hands she grasped the sheathed Katana her fingers clutching the ribbon fiercely Sabe attempted to return to the room. But the blood loss and the pain of the wounds she had torn open had taken their toll. Leaving her body unconcious and in a bloodied heap for Obi-Wan to find later upon his return from collecting her meds.
Though he had been gracious enough not to chide her, the dissappointment she saw in his eyes as he tended to her wounds as she came to, was far more painful and shaming then words could ever be. It made her feel two inches tall and though she tried to explain herself she soon stopped as the feeling that she sounded too much like another former Padawan now Sith made her stomach churn.
This thought alone too was humbling, frustrating and painful to say the least she struggled to tend to the memories that they encouraged and the nightmares that followed. Since the incident she struggled with her vicious hatred of Vader and the empire as a whole. Yet for all of the training and attempts to eradicate her hatred of Anakin, during the forced time apart from Obi-Wan just before the Republic's fall Sabe was frightened to learn how quickly she had forgotten it. All she had to do was slip a finger to her brow or to the many wounds that decorated her healing body and the rage would return with such vengeance she could almost taste it.
While normally such fuel was encouraged for the fire of resistance Sabe couldn't ignoring the painful images that still lingered in her mind of Obi-Wan falling lifeless to the ground. She knew there was a connection between the images and her current struggle but Sabe couldn't understand just what that was. If only she could remember the rest of the nightmare.
The days ahead went by faster then she anticipated and with the help Obi-Wan and the Darklighters soon Sabe found herself beginning to feel like her old self again. Although she was still under strict instruction to remain at rest she was grateful to learn soon she would be allowed to be on her feet again. But in this moment as she woke up to find herself in Obi-Wan's arms being on her feet was the last place she wanted to be. For as selfish as she knew it was, she couldn't help but feel as though she was in heaven whenever she was in his arms and was always hesistant to leave.
As she oepened her eyes a small smile creeped into her features as she could feel his hands running through her hair. It was bliss, pure bliss and a sigh of contentment escaped her lips before she quietly murmured in sleepy tones.
"...please say it's too early for you to get up..."
He watched her sleep for half an hour or so before her long eyelashes flittered open. Her words and emotions brought a small to his face. He too could lay like this forever and instead of replying, he merely kissed her forehead near the bandages as he continued stroking her hair. He exhaled slowly, contentedly.
No doubt Mrs. Darklighter would be over once again this afternoon. The old woman had been a most costant presence in their lives since his last venture to sell moisture and purchase groceries last week. He related Sabé's injuries to which the old woman insisted, no, more like demanded, that she be allowed to see her and cook for them.
On these occassions, Mrs. Darklighter would also be in the habit of embarrassing them with talks of their wedding. Obi-Wan and Sabé had not spoken of it since his unimpressive proposal before her mission to Naboo. Mrs. Darklighter had a habit of just saying whatever came to her mind and would go on about all the preparations that needed attending to. And she would always conclude with, 'Don't worry, dear, I have everything under control,' hinting that she had already begun making preparations of her own.
At the end of each visit, Mrs. Darklighter would give him one of her infamous looks which made him uncomfortable to say the least. It was a look that was a mixture of admiration, pride, and nostalgia which he did not feel worthy of. He would thank her politely and she would remind him which day she would be back to check on Sabé.
'Mrs. Darklighter will be coming today,' he said softly.
Sabe gazed up at him and was rewarded with a small smile that seemed to say it all. She closed her eyes as he kissed her forehead sighing in gentle contentment as he did so.
The past few days had been something out of a dream when she wasn't sleeping she was being kindly tended to by Obi-Wan and to her amusement Mrs. Darklighter. The old woman was a dear friend to her already and as such Sabe had long since become used to her blatant mannerism. But even so anytime she brought up the matter of the wedding Sabe always found her cheeks lighting on fire. Only to discover Obi-Wan to be no different when she attempted to seek solace in his abilities of negotation or in this case clever dodging of topics.
In truth she really didn't mind, it was just something she wasn't used to. While her mistress Padme used to talk about weddings and meeting her perfect handsome knight often, daydreaming one day of having a family of her own Sabe never really put much thought into the matter herself. As such it left her feeling a little lost and overwhelmed whenever the topic was brought up. After all she had sworn to Padme and to herself that she would serve her and her family till the end of her days. Which in truth meant that marriage while not forbidden would be a near impossibility unless of course she chose to resign from her position.
But so much had changed and duties that she once served were no longer in existance leaving her free to serve another, one she had secretly wished for but never dared to truly contemplate. Yet it had become a reality and the thought filled her with both joy and nervous anticipation. Of which could only be topped by a new found shyness to her scarring appearance.
Though she was too embarrassed to ask Sabe couldn't help but inwardly fear that perhaps the Jedi Knight before her would find her less attractive for it. Despite the fact she knew she shouldn't be so foolish she couldn't ignore it and had already tried to think of ways to find something that might hide the marks. Lest she look less then perfect for him on their wedding day.
At that thought Sabe decided she would speak to the old woman about finding something to tend to it when she arrived. Suddenly as though reading her thoughts Obi-Wan softly reminded her that Mrs.Darklighter would be visiting later that day and she couldn't help but offer a sheepish grin at his remarks.
"If I didn't know any better I'd say you were reading my thought Jedi Kenobi."
She teased, her doubts promptly buried as she studied him. But with the thoughts of the wedding still lingering she couldn't resist as her smile turned relaxed.
"I know she can be a bit, direct at times but I have to say I'm grateful for her kindness.
Although I admit I rather like the way she makes you blush everytime she talks about the wedding plans."
She giggled casting him a wink.
'Reading your thoughts?' he chuckled. 'Hmm,' he said, closing his, pretending to use the Force to delve into her mind. 'You want...a cup of tea. No?'
She then brought up Mrs. Darklighter and he wondered how ironic it was that they had both been thinking of the same thing. He avoided her gaze for a moment when she said she liked how Mrs. Darklighter made him blush. Obi-Wan then looked back at her to see her wink.
'I think you would get the prize for the person who causes me to blush though,' he admitted.
He was quite glad the painshots were helping, for he hadn't noticed until giving them to her how much it had been taxing on him as well. After her first injection, he felt the relief almost immediately. This sort of Force bond was nothing like the connection he's had with Anakin nor Qui-Gon to say the least. This was much stronger and it was getting stronger with each passing day. He wondered what it would be like after their ceremony.
And then thinking on ceremonies, he wondered what the ancient Jedi did, for that was part of their history which had been glazed over in classroom study. He decided he would ask her, 'What sort of traditions do you have on Naboo? For weddings, I mean...'
She laughed as she moved to tousle his hair a little in reply to his remarks.
"No but now that you mention it...Nevermind on second thoughts I'll pass, I rather like you here better."
She said with a shy smile as she nuzzled against his chest getting comfortable once more. But at her teasing he glanced away only to look back as she winked hoping he knew she wasn't serious.
It was strange she observed how he seemed to look more healthy as she herself was healing. At first Sabe thought it was because he had spent so much energy looking after her that he had exhausted himself, but as the days past she began to notice subtle things. She couldn't be quite sure but it was as though he could almost feel her pain in a literal sense. Then there were the moments where despite the walls it was almost as though he unintentially was sharing her thoughts. Perhaps this too was just coincidental but it also intrigued her. almost as though she was beginning a sentence that he could finish without knowing what was on her mind.
Perhaps we have just spent so much time together its second nature to know what the other is going to say she mused to herself. Then again perhaps it is the force as he would say. It was fascinating to say the least and Sabe vowed she would inquire about it when the chance arrived.
But at his final question she stirred from her thoughts and offered a shy smile before going thoughtful.
"It varies depending on what part of Naboo one comes from."
She admitted her thoughts returning to her once bestfriend and former Queen bringing with it bittersweet memories as she did so.
"I know where Padme is from custom dictates the use of lace in one's gowns and headdress. It is said that the intricacies of the lace represents the bond that is found in marriage and family. For while a single thread is strong there can be only so much that one can do with it. But when weaved to another, the two threads give and take of each other and are binded together to become something far more magnificent then they would have been had they remained seperate. Such is the metaphor of a happy and strong marriage."
She paused thinking of the traditions that surrounded her regions of Naboo, before once more continuing.
"Where I'm from, we exchange wedding bracelets. Usually they are simple in design and bear carvings of blessing on it that the bride and groom usually exchange. Generally made of pale coloured metals because it represents the purity or order. The band itself stands for strongest of the walls of Order which of course is family. One wears it to breed harmony within and to protect the marriage from chaos.
But in truth, I don't know if I believe that. Honestly I believe harmony and order should come within not from trinkets and baubles."
She then blushed deeply as she thought of her ribbons and the braid with inthem.
"Although I suppose I shouldn't talk. But I like to think the ribbon's or rather the braid within them is something entirely different and therefore the exception to the rule."
She wanted to ask what traditions his people would have but refrained as she could't be sure if he even knew much of the culture that he was originally born itno before he became chosen to be raised by the Jedi Order.
Obi-Wan listened eagerly to her descriptions of various wedding traditions on Naboo, secretly wishing he could remember what the ancient Jedi did even more strongly than before. Then from the back of his head, or perhaps it was from hers, he wondered if the planet he had been born on had traditions as well. Certainly they did, but he was only a baby when the Jedi took him to Coruscant and he did not remember anything of it.
Coruscant though...Coruscant had a vast variety of traditions, but even so, none of it felt like it belonged to him as a Jedi.
When she mentioned the bracelets, Obi-Wan had a hard time not dismissing it as something silly since the Jedi had little use for material possessions, legends, or superstitions, but if this meant something to her, then he would give it serious consideration, although he wondered where they would be able to attain such a thing in the Outer Rim.
Her mention of the braid even now still made his heart flutter. He couldn't believe she had been able to keep it intact for so long and remembered how he had felt when he lost the token of friendship she had given to him on Naboo all those years ago. But tokens were just that: tokens. They were symbolic yet at the same time not immortal. They wear and wither with age where true affections were everlasting. 'I'm amazed you still have it,' he admitted, touched.
Knowing he would be able to tell her true feelings on the matter, he finally decided to ask, 'Would it mean quite a lot to you if we had some sort of material symbol of our oaths to each other?' He wondered if it was more in fact a way of marking another as belonging to him and whether that would diminish her autonomy.
Sabe studied him for a moment as inwardly she couldn't help but continue to wonder if the Jedi at one time perhaps in the ancient eras had their own ceremonies or if even then it was sacrificed for the servitude of a higher purpose.
Even as she explained the history or the traditions Sabe couldn't help but feel a little concious of herself. She could only imagine how silly this must sound to one who had no use for mythos or personal possessions. But she was also touched at his obvious interest in learning of her culture.
But at his admittance Sabe smiled gently her expression turning shy as she bit her lip lightly glancing down.
"...How could I not?...I know such things are mortal. But it holds such fond memories for me that I couldn't help it."
She remarked softly before his question caused her cheeks to flush. Would it be so wrong of her to admit that while traditions were important to her, such material symbols no longer held such importance to her? Most girls would have been offended by such a question but in reality it brought her much relief. She knew he understood that while such things served as wonderful symbols in the end it was the mental and spiritual bond formed between two people that held the true power and strength.
Then of course there was the fact they each had their own symbol to represent the other that in reality nullified the use of additional metaphorical items. Glancing back up at him Sabe offered another shy smile as she sheepishly replied.
"I think we already have a material symbol that speaks of Oath's unspoken."
'I'm glad you did,' he replied. It truly meant alot to him that she had.
Sabé's shy smile always worked wonders on him, a most direct way to warm his heart. It always had.
Whether it was from her thoughts or his own, he recalled that the night after the Solistice celebration, up until he sought her on Naboo: he had had a reoccurring, vivid dream that the two of them had a child together, a daughter. Perhaps it was the lethargy since, but the dream had not once returned to him and he had not thought upon it since.
'I think we already have a material symbol that speaks of Oaths unspoken.'
Her remark instantly reminded him of the piece he'd included in his lightsaber, the piece he knew to be from Sabé though they had never spoken of it. He smiled back at her saying, 'Yes, we do indeed.' He hadn't thought of it until then and considering it now, it truly would make a fitting part of the ceremony.
Obi-Wan's thoughts turned once more about their impending guest and knew he ought to make that Force run to the city before she arrived. He gently pulled from their embrace, asking her if he could get her anything like something to eat or drink before he left.
She blushed at his geniune reply both pleased and relieved to know he didn't think any less of her for her almost obsessive need to keep the braid close to her over the years.
His expression turned pensive then and Sabe couldn't help but wonder where his thoughts lay. If they were in the musings of traditions surrounding wedding's or perhaps in the future she couldn't say. However his expression was peaceful and Sabe could help but enjoy studying him for a moment before he gently agreed to her words.
This thought instantly caused her to wonder just how they would go about incorperating their exchanged gifts of years ago into the ceremony but she soon surmised that they would find a way. She tried to hide the dissappointment in her eyes as he gently drew from her embrace. She knew he had to return to Mos Eisley to get some much needed supplies but it did little to lessen the fact he was no longer in her arms.
At his offer she shook her head and offered a smile. In truth she was more sleepy then anything else and knew that she no doubt just doze off in his absense.
"The only thing I need is for you to come back in one piece and soon."
She admitted with a teasing smile as she winked in reply before getting cozy on the small bed making herself as comfortable as she could without his presence near.
Back in the bustling small town Mrs.Darklighter quickly packed some items she thought Ben and Sefa may be needing. She didn't want to arrive too early and accidently wake up the healing Sefa but she was eager to offer them both a small gift she had spent some time crafting for them. As such she stared at the small but beautiful and elegantly threaded rope one last time before placing it into a small box and adding it into her sachel.
Celia hoped they would like it and though she couldn't be sure it was a custom they were familiar with or even would want to partake of she hoped they would accept her gift for what it was worth. In truth it was more a kind gesture of motherly love then anything else, a small reminder that despite the lack of relations she would always regard them as though they were part of her family.
With this thought in mind she smiled to herself as she quietly prepared to leave pausing only to kiss her husband good-bye. Then stepping out into the warm 'winter' or harvest weather she began the journey to Ben's home some distance away.
At her decline for anything else, Obi-Wan leant over to kiss her brow next to the bandages, running his fingers through her hair once more before he left the room. He grabbed his cloak, putting up the hood before heading out to Mos Eisley at a quickened pace.
In the city, Obi-Wan's mind was rushing through all the things he needed to do and to purchase, not thinking of anything else. He just wanted to get back home to Sabé. Though he knew she wouldn't try anything like she had the first time he left, rising to find her katana, reopening wounds, having him arrive to see her collapsed on the floor soaked in blood, he kept the transactions quick.
He did not see Mrs. Darklighter for he was already on his way back home.
This time when he arrived, he was thankful that she was still in bed so he could clean and rebandage her wounds. It was also a good thing their guest hadn't arrived so he could do so in privacy. If it had been him, he would have been embarrassed to have the old lady witness such a thing, though she had probably seen her share of wounds.
Everything was healing nicely, epsecially since she had restricted her movements. And though the slashes on her side were looking better, it still concerned him. He did nto voice this though.
She smiled to his kiss and gently touched his cheek as Sabe bid him farewell. Upon his departure she quietly took his pillow and wrapped his arms around it breathing deeply of teh faint scent that served as a reminder of the Jedi knight's presence moments ago. Drifting into a peaceful sleep filled with images of the recent past - of a dance under the moonlight, the unexpected but equally endearing professions of love and the promise of a future to be shared forever.
Stirring from her sleep just in time to hear him return Sabe smiled sheepishly as he entered the room. In his absense she always longed to be near him and time seemed to move to a crawl. But now he had returned and instantly she was at peace.
Though she was always grateful for his gentle assistance as he tended to her bandages and wounds Sabe always felt overly concious of herself. Her cheeks always seemed to burn despite her attempts to appear less sheepish about it all. She knew that the older woman would be arriving soon as she always did just before lunch and once more found herself more then a little grateful to Obi-Wan for his discretion and speed.
He as always was sensitive to her needs and knew how concious she was of her wounds. As well as the frustration that she was still unable to completely tend to them herself. She hated feeling so vulnerable and yet she had to admit there was no one else she would want to care for her outside of Obi-Wan. She noted the concern that flickered in his eyes as he subtly noted the slashes on her and furrowed her brow slightly in silent reply her hand slipping to his briefly as she gave it a gentle squeeze as if to say she was feeling better then she looked.
The reassuring squeeze of her hand did a little to ease his concerns, but he would continue to watch her carefully, should these wounds prove to be worse than they seemed.
He felt her vulnerability and self-consciousness even more these days that when she was still quite under the weather. 'You are not the only one with scars, my love,' he said soflty, as he finished bandaging the wounds that left her feeling the most exposed. 'In time, you will no doubt see all of mine.'
Obi-Wan was not ashamed to admit this, though the idea of her seeing such scars brought colour to his cheeks. He was not the same in body as he had been on the Nubian cruiser. The deep scars from Count Dooku and Grievous left impressions on his skin, but the deeper, more lasting wounds were those from the final battle with Anakin.
The door buzzed.
'Right on time as usual,' he remarked, amused. 'I'll be back.' He went over to the door to welcome Mrs. Darklighter in.
His gentle words soothed the worst of her awkwardness though it saddened her to think of the weighted truth behind them. Physical scars at least always heal with enough time and care she surmised, its the mental ones that one can never be truly certain about.
As he admitted she would in soon time see all of his Sabe instantly felt her cheeks warm as she turned shy. It wasn't the thought was unappealing or even inappropriate in her eyes, rather the nervous anticipation that encouraged which caused her to blush deeply. Noting his cheeks warm slightly she offered a shy smile that marked her mutual understanding before the door buzzed.
At his amused remarks Sabe laughed softly as she nodded to his words of brief parting.
The older woman waited anxiously for Ben to answer the door and was soon rewarded as he opened it and greeted her. Bowing deeply she offered a kind smile as she greeted him and quickly entered already explaining the items that filled with her sachel as she did so.
"So how is Sefa feeling? I brought some fresh fruit I saw at the market that I thought you both might enjoy. I took the liberty of finding some of that 'white' milk Sefa keeps talking about. Apparently that little shop near the outskirts has some. I can't imagine how milk thats white could be tasteful but who am I to judge."
She prattled on as she removed the items from her bag before hesitating as she came to the gift in question. A smile played on her features at the sight of it. She wanted to give it to them when they were both together and so for the moment she waited.
She's doing much better, thank you,' he replied to her query. 'This is too kind. We appreciate all your help.
Obi-Wan personally hadn't ever heard of white milk, not that he wouldn't give it a shot. 'And I personally, will never get used to blue milk,' he said lightheartedly as he put away the things she allowed him to put away. She was always very specific about which things she needed for whatever dish she decided to fix for them.
After being shooed out of the kitchen, he went back into the bedroom to see if he could persuade Sabé into allowing him to help her slowly into the living area. 'Wouldn't you like a change of scenery?' he asked, though having a hunch she would be embarrassed by showing any weakness, especially in front of other people. 'A bit of fresh air as well...'
He didn't want to push her too hard though. If they gave it a shot and she was in too much pain, then he would stop.
The old woman just smiled kindly obviously pleased to learn Sefa was healing well.
"I'm so glad to hear she is healing well. You both gave us quite the scare when you returned from your rescue it does my heart good to know she has improved."
But soon she was bustling about again as she paused briefly to pat his shoulder and politely replied to his gratitude all the while hinting that she had dinner under control.
"It's the least I can do for you both dear. Now you just relax and let me take care of dinner for you and Sefa."
She said in goodnatured tones before laughing softly at Obi-Wan's admittance to not enjoying Blue milk.
"It would seem it is an aquired taste isn't it? I noticed your fiancee isn't exactly fond of it either. Reminded her of engine oil if I recall correctly. But you will be pleased to know this particlar milk is very mild by comparision so you have nothing to fear."
She said with a friendly grin before continuing her preparations for dinner as he slipped off.
Sabe on the other hand was more then a little anxious to get out of bed and see her old friend and upon Obi-Wan's return she was soon albiet cautiously trying to sit up. As thought picking up on her thoughts his question was to the point and Sabe couldn't help but bow her head slightly in sheepish reply.
"It's not that I am ungrateful for your kindness or that I disrespect your wishes for me to take it easy, it's just I'm not used to being, bedridden like this."
She admitted believing his question to be in response to seeing her attempts to promptly sit up. But at the mention of fresh air her eyes light up as she found herself torn between the desperate desire to leave the bed and having to face the fact she would definately need help to achieve this goal. Though once more grateful to Obi-Wan for all his help she couldn't help but feel concious of how fragile she seemed to be. It wasn't something she was used to and try as she might she couldn't help but feel embarressed by this fact.
"I hate to have to ask this, but I may need some help..."
She finally admitted feeling her cheeks light up on fire as she gingerly moved to the bed's edge. Though her body resisted and protested in pain Sabe was too determined now to stop.
Obi-Wan picked up on her self-consciousness yet again and then she admitted she needed help, which he already knew would be the case. He knew very well as soon as she was back to full health, she would be able to take on a horde of smugglers single-handedly, but in order for her to get back to that state, she needed to be able to let him continue helping her.
'Slowly,' he said, when she moved swiftly to the edge of the bed. 'Gently, easy does it,' he continued as he helped her to her feet as he had many times before. Only instead of to the fresher, they would be going a greater distance to the living room. 'Small steps.'
Slowly but surely they made it to the living room and he made sure she was comfortable on the couch. 'Do you need another pillow?' he asked. 'I'll open the window a bit for some fresh air...'
She tried to ignore the fact her cheeks felt as though they were on fire at his gentle words. She hated to be in his position and felt more then a little useless for it. Another reminder that pride comes before a fall she inwardly chided herself as she felt his strong arms helping her to her feet. Bowing her head Sabe couldn't quite bring herself to look at him as he helped her to her feet and gently guided her to the living room. It was humiliating and yet humbling as well.
She tried to put a positive outlook on her weakened state as in truth while she hated to feel so frail she was immensely grateful to Obi-Wan for his kindness. Yet as she entered the living room she found herself more then a little relieved to note the older woman in the kitched was far too busy with her cooking to notice she had just entered the room. Of course Sabe knew that would soon change but for the moment thankfully only Obi-Wan was witness to her fragile state.
As he helped her get comfortable on the couch Sabe couldn't resist an amused smile to his eagerness to ensure she was comfortable. He is so endearing Sabe mused, as the realization that he probably wasn't even aware of how his gestures affected her served to warm her heart that much more.
Blushing at his words she couldn't resist a warmhearted smile as she reached out to grab his hand and gave it a gentle squeeze as she softly spoke her eyes shining with gratitude and feelings that far surpassed words.
"Thank you, but I'm fine, I truly am."
Sabé's warm smile assured him that she was in fact comfortable and this pleased him.
Mrs. Darklighter couldn't help stealing a few glances at the pair and Obi-Wan was polite enough to pretend he didn't notice.
On one of the occassions she wasn't looking, he leant over to give her a kiss before going into the kitchen to see if Mrs. Darklighter would allow him to help out.
Sabe with her thoughts and attentions solely on Obi-Wan hadn't noticed the older woman watching which given her already sheepish mannerisms and shy mindset. But despite this she couldn't help but relish the hidden kiss before he departed to the kitchen. Watching him quietly as he did so.
Meanwhile Celia couldn't help but cast Obi-Wan a friendly knowing smile as he entered the kitchen. However this time she was merciful enough not to make mention of her observations although she placed her hands upon her hips as she shook her head as she pretended to be annoyed for his silent attempt to help.
"Now Ben I already told you I have things under control. You just go back and relax I'm almost done here! Besides its not polite to keep Sefa waiting like that"
She said with another knowing smile.
And once again, Mrs. Darklighter's words had a way of causing him to blush, embarrassed at her forwardness. She was not a difficult woman to understand, but her audacity had a roundabout way of being endearing. He nodded to her request that he keep out of the kitchen and wandered back over to the couch saying loud enough for Mrs. Darklighter to overhear, 'No use sticking around when I'm not wanted,' teasing the old woman.
Obi-Wan only hesitated a moment before seating himself next to Sabé. He momentarily debated about sitting in a nearby chair out of respect for Sabé's honour, but had a feeling Mrs. Darklighter would only pull him out of the chari by the ear commanding him to sit next to his fianceé.
Sabe raised a brow as she soon saw Obi-Wan returning from the kitchen before grinning at his teasing remarks to which was followed by the friendly laughter of the older woman who then called back in reply.
"My dear I never said you weren't wanted, I just said you weren't needed!"
Sabe laughed in response though she tried not to wince as the laughter caused her some pain. However the feeling soon passed much to her relief as she watched him approach. Noting his blushing cheeks Sabe's eyes softened as she casted him an apologetic smile.
She noticed his hesitation and understood that he was trying to be concious of her honour which made her heart swell. Yet despite this he quietly joined her as both knew in reality with Mrs.Darklighter such a gesture of respect would only encourage her to embarrass them further by demanding that such things weren't necessary in her presence and that he should be near her.
Yet with him so near it took all of Sabe's control not to instinctivally lean her head against his shoulder and slip her hand into his. For Sabe there was no place more comfortable or at peace then in his arms but for now she refrained knowing just how the older woman would react upon being witness to this. The mere thought caused her cheeks to warm but she soon buried it as she studied Obi-WAn for a moment a playful grin revealing itself on her features.
"I take your attempts to help were foiled?"
She couldn't help but tease before the older lady returned briefly to set plates in front of them as she practically beamed to the couple before her.
"I'm almost done my dears. Just have to wait for the juice to set and we're ready."
She said before dissappearing once more into the kitchen.
'Indeed,' he replied just before Mrs. Darklighter approached with plates. When she returned to the kitchen, he said, 'It's probably for the best anyway. This way, I get to be here with you.'
And as if picking up on her desire, he slipped his hand into hers, giving it a gentle squeeze as they awaited Mrs. Darklighter's newest concoction. Obi-Wan wondered if perhaps the old woman was trying new recipes on them before testing them out on her family.
The older woman just cast them an amused grin at Obi-Wan's reply before slipping off back to the kitchen once more as she made the final preparations for their meal.
Sabe at his words smiled as her eyes danced marking her appriciation to the meaning behind them. Then as though reading her thoughts his hadn slipped into hers and she closed her eyes briefly giving a contented sigh to his gentle squeeze. But upon casting him a glance Sabe smile turned amused as she couldn't help but ask in soft but curious tones.
"I overheard her saying something about having brought white milk? I can only imagine how she found it! It's a rarity on Naboo to say the least.
She paused before adding with a giggle.
"Believe me it's far better then it's blue counterpart! Certainly less potent anyways"
She said with a wink.
Celia was humming as she put equal portions on to each plate and took it over to the young couple. 'Well don't just sit there! Try it!' she said, placing her hands on her hips and feigning a scowl at them as if she was commanding her children to eat all their vegetables.
Obi-Wan caught Sabé's amused glance as he tucked in. If it was possible, Mrs. Darklighter had certainly outdone herself, at least in his opinion. 'This has got to be my favourite Tatooine dish, Mrs. Darklighter. I would like to know the recipe, if you don't mind my asking.'
Flattered, Celia blushed crimson. 'It's adapted from an old Anoatian recipe, actually,' she said, sitting down in a chair nearby with her own plate. 'My family left Anoat when I was a small girl because of the toxic waste. My parents were looking for a new life, wanting fresh air, but not making it much farther than Tatooine...'
Obi-Wan listened to her story attentively as he cleaned his plate.
'We had to substitute a few ingredients, but it's as close to the original as I've ever gotten.'
'It's delicious. Thank you for sharing it with us,' said Obi-Wan. 'And for sharing your story as well.'
Sabe smiled sheepishly to the older woman's words before beginning to eat herself. As always the meal was beyond delicious and Sabe couldn't help but feel grateful to be at the recieving end of such a kind gesture. Though she had personally never tried this particular meal before she found it to be quite good and was soon nodding in agreement to Obi-Wan's words as he requested to know it's recipe, all the while putting to memory the fact this was one of his favorite Tatooine dishes.
But as the older woman explain how she had come to Tatooine Sabe's curiousity once more got the better of her. This was something she never really knew about the older woman and couldn't resist the oppertunity that presented itself.
"How old were you when your family departed from Anoat if you don't mind my asking?
Also my knowledge is rather limited pertaining to this planet but I was wondering what caused the Toxic waste? Was it a spill? Or a result of war?"
But at the older woman's admittance to have used some substitutes for the dinner Sabe shook her head slightly and smile as she too had finished her plate.
"I agree with Ben, this was quite wonderful! Thank you again for your kindness and for all of your help."
She said sincerely once more humbled by both Obi-Wan and the Darklighters kind support and care.
'Oh I just about eight or nine at the time,' Mrs. Darklighter said, fondly remembering the arrival on Tatooine. 'Anoat had always been quite toxic. Landfills overfilled, overpopulated..it was just not the best place to live, especially not to raise a family.' He eyes sparkled thinking about the couple in front of her and how much she'd like to see their children grow up as well as of her own children and grandchildren. 'I'm truly pleased you enjoy it and of course I'll grab the recipe. Just give me a moment...'
Celia rose from her chair and retrieved a datacard. She handed it to Ben. 'There are a few recipes aside from this one... This one is the first under "main courses" I think I put that it's Anoatian on there...can't recall.'
'I'm sure we'll figure it out,' Obi-Wan replied, thanking her once again.
'Oh,' Celia added, giggling a bit, 'I've also put a few wedding traditions on that datacard too...as well as the handbinding ceremony...'
'Hand-binding?' Obi-Wan asked, wondering what in the blazes that entailed and what its purpose was. All of these suggestions for matrimony by Mrs. Darklighter were proving to be quite interesting indeed.
'Yes! Oh dear, Ben! Didn't your family have any sense of culture!' she tsked, going over to her bag of goods once more. She drew a long intricately beaded and jewelled item from her bag and brought it over to them. 'This is our wedding gift to you. For your ceremony. Well you'll just have to read up on it. And of course if you have any questions, feel free to ask me!'
Sabe listened intently her expression filled with curiousity as the older woman explained their need for departure from her home planet. It was sad to learn of a planets destruction through the death of their environment, yet at the sametime she knew this wasn't unheard of and was grateful to learn her old friend managed to get away before the worst of it could consume her.
"I'm sorry to hear that."
She admitted gently before adding with a sincere smile.
"Although at the sametime as selfish as it sounds I'm a bit glad your family moved away, both for your safety and to ensure our pathes would cross later."
She waited patiently for the older woman to return with the data padds and was soon leaning over Obi-WAn's shoulder as she peeked at the recipes in curiousity. If to judge by the ingredients alone many sounded like they were quite good and Sabe found herself oddly eager to make some attempts at recreating them. A first for one who was less then brave when it came to cooking new entrees.
But at the mention of Wedding traditions Sabe felt her cheeks warm although her eyes danced curiously as she spoke of the handbinding ceremony. Raising a brow she glanced back at the older woman who teased Obi-Wan causing Sabe's cheeks to warm further as she sheepishly admitted.
"I can't say I've heard of this tradition either."
But as Mrs.Darklighter removed a long intricately beaded and jeweled item her eyes widened in surprise. It was a fine piece of work indeed, one that was sure to have impressed Rabe whose eyes for such things was keen.
"This is lovely, are you certain you wish to part with it?"
She asked humbled by her words as she studied the beautifully crafted piece of work.
Obi-Wan tried not to let it bother him that the elderly woman was remarking on his lack of culture. To be sure, he couldn't outright admit to the fact that the Jedi had their own sort of culture...but that it did not include such things at least not in the last century. Nor could he lie or concoct a fabricated family for 'Ben'. 'I didn't know my parents,' he told Mrs. Darklighter. 'Nor do I know what sort of traditions my family followed and I apologise for my ignorance on this matter...'
'Oh, it is I who should apologise, Ben. I'm sorry,' she said, resting a hand over his briefly. 'I didn't know you were an orphan.'
She said this in an apologetic tone which Obi-Wan wasn't sure how to take, so he looked over the datacard after having inserted it into a datapad he had lying on the table.
'My dear, Sefa,' said Mrs. Darklighter, shaking her head, 'this is a gift for you and your fiancé.' She shot Ben an approving, knowing look. 'And if you don't accept it, I will think you're being rude!' She of course would think nothing of the kind, but was putting her foot down.
'We humbly accept your gift, Mrs. Darklighter,' Obi-Wan said, looking back at her.
Mrs. Darklighter, shook her head, smiling. These two people were the nicest and most polite she had ever met. There certainly wasn't anything to break down their elegant style and manner and she wondered internally if they were born of a higher class or stock than she. Lost royalty, perhaps.
Sabe tried to ignore the instinctive need to defend Obi-Wan in front of the older woman, reminding herself that there was no way she could possibly know of his history. Nor could she ever learn of it. But at old woman's apologetic remarks about him being an orphan the former handmaiden bit her lip as she gave Obi-Wan's hand a squeeze, sensing his quiet conflict. She came so close to speaking up on his behalf and it took all her willpower not to do so as she knew the ruse had to be kept up despite how hard it was. So instead she gave him a reassuring smile when Mrs. Darklighter went to remove the elegant braid from her bag her eyes gentle and understanding as she did so.
As the gift was presented to them she felt both humbled and moved by it. Though the older woman's words and subtle teasing soon brought another warm smile to her features.
Bowing her head slightly in reply Sabe gently agreed with Obi-Wan her eyes once more turning gentle.
"Thank you, indeed it is an honour we will not soon forget."
