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Missing Scenes
Pre Revenge of the Sith: Unexpected Blessings
Resting unobtrusivally in Master Obi-Wan's meditation room in the center of the meditation chair sits a small silver piece of metal. Upon a first glance it just looks like a part for some sort of device. But to those who are familar with it's design will know it is a part meant for a lightsaber. However upon closer examination it is noted that there is something different about it.
For carefully carved into the metal is a symbol that normally isn't or rather shouldn't be there. Yet despite this unusual trait the piece is flawless and perfectly suited for the purpose it serves.
Though it resembles writing that is considered native to the Naboo culture it is in some ways different for it reveals no actual obvious meaning. However the symbol to those familar with Naboo culture will reconize its design as it is often worn by those who travel often and has been known to reveal itself in the paintings and sculptures of local temples.
The swirling shape upon closer examination reveals what could be taken as six circles or walls. Within the swirls rests a symbol that looks like a circle with six nubs that stick out from it. Though the etching itself is black in color the circle carries a rustic orange hue which also seems to bear a meaning of some sort.
There is no letter, no note or any sort of evidence that would explain how the item arrived in the first place or from whom it may have come from save for a possible relations of the design and it's origin.
The first few weeks as the newest member of the Jedi Council had been quite exhilirating for Obi-Wan, though his head ached from all of the new information. He was given an assigment without Anakin, which took him to the planet Praesitlyn where he peacefully negotiated a settlement with a Seperatist commander without coming to violence.
He sent a transmission to Anakin, suggesting he spend what time he had lurking in the archives for new tactics they could employ in battle, as he had a feeling the next mission he undertook would not be so peaceful.
Upon his return to Coruscant, he went straight to brief the Council on his success before heading back to his quarters to freshen up. Still on a high from his good d, he missed the small device on his chair, but after showering and changing, he found it.
He picked up and examined the small metal object, examining it curiously. It was part of a lightsaber hilt, the base handgrip attachment which fit just beneath the space where the power vortex ring ought to be. Obi-Wan quickly glanced to the lightsaber hooked on his belt, as if thinking his had broken for a split second. He then recalled the fact that most Jedi Master fashioned new lightsabers when being accepted to the Council. It was tradition.
Upon fruther scrutinisation, he spotted the ornate, yet easy to miss symbols etched in the metal. His fingers danced over the raised and indented carving. They were familiar, yet illegible to him.
It was of Naboo.
A smile worked its way on to his face. How did she know? How did she acquire the parts and supply to do this for him? Did she know of the Jedi tradition? He wondered if she'd found a way into the archives as well with her new security clearance. Perhaps she'd stumbled upon their customs. The thought was endearing and he would use this when he finally got around to fashioning his new saber.
Much meditation and work went in to making a lightsaber and once he'd completed it, he was satisfied with the results. He flicked the switch on and it hummed to life, blazing brightly, the blue shade shining off the silver parts of the hilt.
After the morning Council meeting, he decided to see if he might be able to run into the lovely Nabooan whom he knew gave him that piece for his lightsaber. It was just after midday and the sun streaked through the windows in the hallway as he meandered through the senatorial plaza's main gateway.
Typho exited a chamber where the senator of Alderaan was holding a small gathering for other politicians and people Obi-Wan didn't recognise. He spotted Amidala and Sabé within, but remained outside.
Typho spoke a few words with him about the Senator's protection, but kept the conversation limited.
Obi-Wan nodded solemnly, agreeing that the times were still dangerous and it was best to keep the heightened security.
The meeting was brief and to the point pertaining to the dealings of
the war and the Senate and securities role in it. Sabe listened
politely and had offered what she could along with Captain Typho's
insights. It wasn't much for the moment as there was a new threat
beginning on the rise one no one was too familar with at least for the
moment. A cyborg creation never seen before but more powerful then any
of the droids encountered.
But as the meeting draws to a close, Sabe finds herself sensing a familar hum and can't help but smile slightly. Obi-Wan is near she muses as she inwardly wonders how his first mission went and how his training into the council's ranks is going. She thinks of the gift left behind and hopes it will serve it's purpose. It isnt much, but given the war and all that is going on she thought he could use all the protection he could get.
As the senators now talk quietly amongst themselves Sabe eyes fall to the Captain who quietly slips outside to meet with another. To her immense joy it is none other then the Jedi master himself. She knew that there would be a Jedi representitive coming by later to discuss the matters at hand but she never guessed it would be him. AS her eyes flicker in his direction her smile widens though she can't help but also feel a tinge of guilt for her selfish thought. Thank the gods Anakin was no where to be found.
When Sabé emerged from the room, Obi-Wan formally excused himself from Typho and approached her. 'Lady Sabé, my I have a word?'
He hadn't even considered ahead of time that he would have to think of an appropriate excuse to be able to speak with her. He thought ironically that no doubt Anakin would have a long list of plausible scenarios and now felt a bit guilty for having to come up with one.
Obi-Wan took a swift glance at Typho, who wasn't even looking at him. THe other politicians were so consumed with their own conversations that they also didn't seem to notice the Jedi. All save Senator Organa, but he was conversing with Senator Amidala.
She leaves quietly to join the Captain as she knew he would want to speak to her about other matters related to Amidala's security. But instead she is approached by the Jedi Master and in truth it was her hidden hope that he would.
Bowing slightly at his words she casts him a polite smile aware of the watchful eyes.
"Of course Master Kenobi, how may I be of help?"
She asks while her own eyes shift back to the politicians so speak quietly amongst themselves. After a moment she catches Padme's eyes and notes once more with guilt over her selfish thought of seconds ago that htey are filled with dissipointment. It was evident to Sabe that the Senator was hoping Anakin would be with his former master.
In truth, this was much harder than he'd thought it would be, partially wishing they had some sort of secret language as she and the other handmaidens had with the former Queen of Naboo.
'If you have a spare moment?' he said, gesturing down the hallway, beginning to walk that way.
He kept the conversation on the war, mentioning there was still hope as his last mission on Praesitlyn was successful.
But Sabé was able to read his emotions, even if she wasn't trained in the ways of the Force. As the conversation was formal, he resonated an appreciation for her company.
She nods slightly at his silent invitation inwardly wishing as well that he could understand the body language and silent gestures handmaidens were trained to understand. But it matters little for his emotions seems to mirror her own and for that she is pleased.
The conversation remains in the matters of war and though politics isn't her pleasure Sbe rather enjoyed the discussion of tactics and theater settings. Especially when he was the one discussing it.
"I'm glad to know your mission proved successful Master Kenobi"
She says proudly as inwardly she had no doubt that it would be anythign but a success.
"So how is your new position treating you? Are you settling into well?"
She asks curious to know how he is doing and how the training went.
'Well, thank you,' he replied simply as they left the busy hallway for a less crowded one. His tone was formal, though on the inside he was perfectly beaming.
Obi-Wan felt an exultation from her and he felt undeserving of such praise. His cloak flew back slightly from the atomosphere controls which shifted as they moved through the hall, causing his new lightsaber to be visible.
'I have to admit I had the worst headache the first week on the Council. I never realised how much there was left to learn from Knight to Master.'
She smiles and bows slightly in reply sensing his joy that is only too contagious. As they slip into a more quiet hall she feels the breeze of the atmosphere controls and from the corner of her eye catches his new lightsaber.
Noting the piece in question had found it's way onto the new blade's design causes her heart to soar. Though she doesn't say a word pertaining to it she is pleased and relieved. Though it is hidden she hopes it still serves it's purpose and protects the Jedi master from the darkness within and keeps him centered in the days to come.
At his remarks she turns curious as her eyes sparkle.
"Now you must tell me all about it, I'm most curious to know more."
Obi-Wan shook his head, 'I wouldn't want to bore you with the details. Let's just say, I am glad that I am caught up and don't have to go through that again.'
He smiled at her when he caught her brief glance at his belt, where the new lightsaber hung. He didn't say anything about it though, knowing she knew was enough and he would cherish it forever.
'You've had some spare time these past few weeks?' he remarked, though it was only partially referring to the metal piece she'd carved for him.
She grins at his words unable to resist a little teasing as she replies.
"I imagine it must have been hard to go back to being the student again."
His smile speaks volumes and Sabe's heart swells in joy to the silent appriciation that it carries. Though always clever with his words she catches his remarks as she shrugs lightly unable to resist a smile of her own.
"You know how it is, quiet enough to relax, but busy enough to keep one out of trouble."
She says as her smile turns to a grin. Curiousity however soon sets in and she casts him a glance.
"What about you? How long will you be staying till the next mission finds you travelling once more?
'And former handmaidens definitely need to be kept out of trouble,' he remarked slyly, recalling the games and tricks they'd played on him on Tatooine.
'I'm not sure,' Obi-Wan replied to her question about travelling. 'The Council hasn't said anything about it. Most of the negotiations have been going well, at least on my part.' A slight frown appeared on his face as he added, 'We have lost quite a few good Jedi in other systems, mostly in Outer Rim territories.'
With the war on, it was impossible to tell when he'd be setting off again. Part of him hoped it wouldn't be for awhile so that he might be able to run into Sabé again, under less formal situations. It was truly good to see her again, for he had missed her.
She laughs softly at his words before taking on a mischevious look herself.
"Not as much as former Padawan's I imagine."
She grows thoughtful at his word though she is careful to hide the tinge of hope that it encourages. Perhaps he'll be able to remain on Coruscant for more then a day or two she inwardly thinks before burying it away as his next remark causes her to turn serious once more as she casts him a sad but understanding look.
"It seems that there isn't a single person these days that hasn't been affected by this war.
It brings me much relief to know you are alright. Although I admit I have little doubt in your abilities to negotiate and restore order from the chaos."
She adds with a proud smile. Though she tries to surpress it inwardly it brings her such relief and joy to see him safe and well. For she knew from experience the horrors of the war and battle, as well as the incredible risks taken from both the front and behind the lines.
Part of him felt guilty that she should worry at all about him when she had so many other more important, pressing duties and things to attend to. The other part of him was just as relieved to see the last security threat to the politicians on Coruscant had not dampened her spirits.
Each small battle won would make a difference in the long run. Such small a victory should be celebrated. And despite himself, he thought of her as the one constant in his life.
Her words were far too kind, he thought. He hadn't done it entirely by himself, as he had the Force as his guide.
But enough about war. He wanted to look at her, really look at her, but it was not appropriate here.
They took another turn, and he wasn't sure exactly where they were going, only that he wanted to be with her for awhile. 'Ah, my lady, but a former padawan did not steal something of value and make it seem as though they themselves had lost it...'
For the moment she is only too happy to bask in his peaceful presence and let the troubles of the war slide off her shoulders even for a bit of time. It was in moments like this that she can't help but wonder where she would be without his quiet presence drifting in and out of her life.
Time seems to move of it's own accord as she wanders with Obi-Wan not exactly caring where they are going or how long they are gone for. A contented sigh escapes her lips at the thought although his remarks causes her to laugh as she casts him a mischevious grin.
"Ah that. Well it wasn't this handmaiden's fault entirely, after all you know the rules of truth and dare."
However from some distance away two forms move quietly slipping through the small crowds yet keeping to the shadows all the while having a watchful eye on the Knight and the handmaiden.
"Now remember always keep your distance and be sure to act natural. The one you seek must never know you are aware of them."
"Yes M'lady..."
'Point taken.' He chuckled at her reply. It seemed like a lifetime ago when they had been on Tatooine. It took much retraint on his part not to let his eyes linger on her profile too long.
They moved out onto a terrace near a café. The spot they'd found overlooked the cityscape, but was not extremely remote so as to cause any suspicion. When he turned to take a look at the transports zooming below, his hand unconsciously found the small of her back, but it only rested there a moment before her dropped it and crossed his arms.
Sabe beams at his reply before giving a contented sigh as she tries to relish this moment for as long as she can. As they move onto the terrace by a small cafe Sabe finds her eyes drifting over the city's towering buildings and the vast ships that pass between them. Even now the Naboo native found the sight both unsettling and breath taking. But the thought soon scatters as she feels the gentle touch of his hand against the small of her back. Though it is a small gesture it doesn't go unnoticed and Sabe unconciously closes her eyes as her breath catches.
But almot as soon as it is there it's gone and though she understands the cause for the abrupt ending she can't resist passing him a brief glance as a small smile plays on her lips before returning her attentions to the sights below.
Elsewhere Sache takes note of this with much interest as she raises a brow. Ah what have we here? She muses unable to resist this little oppertunity. Casting a glance to Dorme she notices the younger woman has picked up on this as well. With an amused grin the older teacher decides to have a little fun with her pupil.
"Well now that we have some evidence found what is our next course of action?"
The younger woman though shy furrows her brow and politely replies.
"We report it to the captain."
Sache nods inwardly giggling knowing that Sabe is certain to strangle her for this but it was too much to pass up on.
Just as Sabé looked away, he cast a glance at her profile. Had it really been three years since the time they spent in the Garden of a Thousand Fountains? He placed his hands on the guard rail, bowing his head slightly.
'Do you think--' But he left the question hanging in the air.
He thought of asking her if, Force willing, they had no other prior commitments that they could get together for a cup of tea again. He partially smiled at the thought, but had a feeling it wasn't meant to be.
These chance meetings were really all they had and he knew he ought to be thankful for that. He was, but part of him still wished for more. And it was those times, like now, that he recalled each and every moment they had spent together, including the times when there were countless other people around. Just a small glance from her made all the difference.
His question pulls Sabe out of her thoughts as she glances back to him noting his bowed head as she furrows her brow.
"Do I think what? Is something on your mind?"
She offers gently as she studies him curiously now her eyes turning gentle as she feels the urge to reach out to place a hand on his shoulder. She refains however knowing it wouldn't be appropriate as inwardly she sighs. If only they could have more moments like this. Even if only to bask in his presence to enjoy the silent peace she found in his eyes and smile.
Sache on the other hand returns with Dorme to the Captain unable to resist a slight grin. Though she rather liked Dorme she found the girls fascination with the Anakin's defiance to the Jedi Order unsettling. Though she knew Padme tries to pretend that Anakin and her were only friends she had seen the hidden looks shared and the fact that the handmaidens weren't permitted to enter her quarters when he was visiting spoke more then words ever could. She knew they were love and knew they were courting but remained silent for Padme's sake. If only she knew the entire story...
But for the moment she figures she would teach the younger handmaiden that espionage is no game and not everything is worth reporting. That and the fact that it might do well for the girl to know that not every Jedi is as defiant as Anakin and that as a handmaiden she would do well to learn from her 'sister's' example. Not of course that having a chance to speak to the handsome Captain Typho had anything to do with this. She inwardly smiles at the thought of the Captain of the Guard. HE was certain to find this as amusing as she did.
'Isn't there always?' he replied, looking at her with a small smile.
This is completely unfair to her, Obi-Wan thought. Allowing her to become attached to me, becoming attached myself, I'm preventing her from ever having a normal relationship... I'm being selfish...
I would do anything for her... he thought, studying her dark brown eyes.
You know as well as I do that I can't promise to stay with you forever. But I can't help thinking for you to accept such terms is humiliating for you, that I'm holding you back.
But yours is also a life of duty and service.
Obi-Wan allowed his hand to rest hand atop hers on the railing, wanting to hold her as he did before in the garden those three years ago, but this was far from the time or place for such things. His inner conflict dissipated at the meeting of their flesh. Brief though it would have to be, it was reassuring. It was a silent understanding.
'What is your schedule like tomorrow?' he ventured, not able to commit to any future plans, but hoping their paths might indeed cross.
She returns his gaze readily and offers him an understanding but sad smile in reply, before sighing deeply.
"I suppose so. Especially these days."
Turning her attentions to the moving vehicles that fly by she finds her thoughts turning to Obi-Wan once more.
Even though she wishes for nothing more then to be with him, Sabe can't help but feel a swell of pride at the fact that like herself, he chose duty over personal desires. It spoke volumes about his character and in truth it only made her feelings for him deepen that much more. She feels her cheeks warm at the thought.
Warrior, negotiator and noblemen. A member of the old guard; a true knight, as her sister Leesol would say and in truth Sabe couldn't agree more. Closing her eyes Sabe silently tries to bury such thoughts. It would only serve to bring dishonor to his name and the title he had worked so hard to earn.
Suddenly a memory occurs to her causing Sabe to smile slightly. Tame her mentor in the arts of melee and combat once told her that the relationship between a warrior and his sword is simple. A warrior's blade is meant to be an extension of one's body, not an extension of spirit.Forever together and yet always apart.
Though the expression is totally unrelated the simple expression reminded Sabe so much of all that was them. Even if they could never be together in a literal sense Sabe would cherish these brief moments together always.
As though sensing her thoughts and the turmoil it encourages, Sabe feels Obi-Wan's hand slip over hers as it rests on the railing. Strange how such a simple gesture can sooth even the worst of fears, and send one heart soaring she inwardly thinks enjoying the gentle calm of his touch.
Gently she caresses his hand with her thumb as she glances back to him in silent assurance. Her eyes are gentle and understanding as though reminding him that she is proud of him and his loyalty to duty and is honored and touched by these rare moments they are able to enjoy.
At his question she furrows her brow slightly going thoughtful before speaking once more.
"Like everything it can change in a heartbeat, but for now it looks fairly quiet. Just the usual meetings pertaining to the droid movements and the security of the Senator's."
She admits before casting him another brief glance.
"And yours?"
Dorme was less then amused. In truth she was downright frustrated. She had tried to speak to the Captain of her concerns and at the time she thought Sache was supporting her. That is till the handmaiden picked up her tutor's wry smile and mischevious expression. The captain on the other hand didn't even bother trying to hide his thoughts on the matter as he laughed at her suggestion reminding her that Sabe was his second in command. It was her duty to discuss matters of war and work out security with the Jedi.
She was hardly in any danger and Obi-WAn despite being a Jedi was without question one of the finest and most noble warriors he had ever encountered. Quite a change of tune from three years ago to say the least.
As if that was enough he even had the nerve to insult the one Jedi she had actually had respect for. As if Anakin would ever be anything but a proper gentleman to a lady. Her frown deepens at the thought. Surely Sache having been around the Jedi knight himself would have backed her up as she defended Jedi Skywalker's name instead of raising a brow as if to suggest otherwise.
Sighing deeply she quietly enters the Dojo deciding ironically to take her former mentor's advice and train to help calm her nerves. But as she entered she was surprised to find she was not alone. In furvent training by himself, was Jedi Knight Skywalker. Pausing she is about to quietly leave and return to her quarters when something causes her to hesistate.
If Captain Typho wouldn't listen then perhaps he would. After all he knew more about the Jedi then she did and would know whether or not this is a threat. Quietly approaching she bows deeply to him.
"Jedi Skywalker I'm sorry to intrupt, but there is something I think you should know..."
The feel of her hand in his was reassuring, though there was still that tiny bit of self-doubt, unworthiness.
Surely there was a politician's assistant or another member of the security task force who could make her happy-- But then Sabé's expression seemed to instantly snuff these thoughts from his head. Her eyes told him that she was OK with this, just this...that he was worthy of her affections and she was not in any way humiliated.
'Same for me,' he replied, 'minus the senators and droids, of course.'
Obi-Wan added with reserved hope, 'Perhaps we will run into each other then.'
Their precarious positioning thankfully made it next to impossible for anyone to view their entwined hands. It felt similiar to a healing trance both soothing and invigorating, yet neither of them seemed to be sacrificing their energy. It was like it built upon itself, but Obi-Wan wouldn't question this for there was nothing dark about it.
In his private quarters, Jedi Master Mace Windu's thoughts were preoccupied with an earlier Jedi Council meeting. It seemed more and more Jedi were conflicted with Dark Paths, one of which was their Chosen One. He'd heard various reports, but what troubled him right now was the issue of Quinlan Vos who approached the Council saying he felt he flirted too closely with the Dark Side that he wasn't sure he would be welcomed back.
Too far away from the planet Vos was on, Master Yoda and himself had to defer the decision to another, but the thought was still haunting. It forced him to recall a no-so-distant memory of his own near fall on his home planet of Haruun Kal.
Vos nearly sacrificed his former padawan.
Mace recalled Master Kenobi said that Vos was not the only one who had been asked to do something against what Jedi are not normally required to do, Master Tholme, among those few, spying on Dooku for them.
But even Master Yoda against this. There was always a danger of becoming that false face. Was that what happened to Vos? Is that what could happen to any one of them?
One act alone does not cause a Jedi to become lost. It is not stumbled onto by accident. It is a choice.
Master Kenobi's words echoed in his head.
Mace nodded solemnly at the recollection. Indeed, he thought.
He stood resolutely, looking out the window, his arms behind his back. For I have made the conscious decision to use my abilities for the Light. No matter how strong the seduction of the Dark Side may be. I am stronger.
And Vos was welcomed back to the Jedi.
His gaze as always says so much more then words ever could and it fills her with such joy and peace. For a moment she holds his gaze wanting to bask in all it carries and offers hoping somehow he can read all she wants to say but can't in her own eyes.
At his words she smiles demurely and glances to their intertwinded hands feeling as though heaven had once more found her.
"I would like that very much."
She says softly knowing that there can be no garentees of this, but appriciating the thought and hope that his words seems to carry.
