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Missing Scenes
Pre Revenge of the Sith: To Remove Oneself from the Realms of Discord
There was only one place Obi-Wan could achieve piece of mind in troubling times such as these. He found himself, less than hour after the disconcerting fight with Sabé, in the Garden of a Thousand Fountains. The spot he cherished, which he hadn't noticed right away, that reminded him distinctly of Naboo.
Though he was trying to get away from things that had been said, Obi-Wan was wise enough to know that avoidance would only further complicate that which he needed to confront.
His meditation was best done pacing the walk, his slow yet steady strides marking his territory within the peaceful gardens. Peace....serenity...harmony...the Force It was the first mantra he'd ever learned and in the most trying of times, it was the easiest to slip into.
After clearing his head, he was as close as he could be to the Living Force, something that had always been a struggle for him: keeping his thoughts in the here and now instead of falling into the past or divining possible future events.
And the smell of the flowers filtered into his nostrils. He breathed it in readily and the hurt Sabé caused him, came back at an eerily quickened pace. It shouldn't have affected him so much, but because of his feelings for her, those that he was loathe to admit aloud to anyone, she had wounded him deeply.
It is many hours before Sabe finally decides to take the change and face the weight of her actions. The rest of the evening proved to be a miserable wash with her locking herself to the confines of her quarters in an effort to meditate and further her subtle security for Padme. Thankfully her friend had yet to pick up on it and even more so Anakin. Should he learn of her watchful eyes Sabe was certain it would mark the end for her and her sisters.
Another shudder passes through her along with the familar ache that had become her constant companion since her explosion on the Jedi Master earlier that day.
Finally after a few more failed attempts to meditate she gives in and quietly heads the Jedi temple. The Jedi now familar with her presence and the fact she acted as a representive to the Senates security permitted her a bit more leeway to visit the more public parts of their chambers. The garden of a thousand fountains being one of them. It wasn't too hard to locate Obi-Wan's presence she found as the strange mental connection formed between them was just as strong if not stronger then it was during the early days when Padme was still queen.
But with his silent signal to which she is careful to hide her knowledge of Sabe can almost feel the sorrow and conflict. It seemed to linger in her thoughts like a sore bruise, a throbbing cut and she knew without question that she was the cause of it. The realization of this hits her hard forcing her to pause, to regain her composure for it would not due to break down. Definatly not in a place like this she surmises as she steps into the lush gardens quietly grateful it is for the moment empty or at least at a first glance.
Sabe knew he was here for she could feel his presence though she had to force her walls up higher lest his sorrow cause her own thoughts to fall into despair. She felt terrible as it was and more then a little shamed for her actions. She didn't want to face him for the guilt was overpowering even if she knew her concerns were not misplaced SAbe had commited a heinous crime by her peoples standards and she had to rectify the havok she had caused against Obi-Wan.
Family was everything for it breeds harmony she inwardly could hear the old priest say. The same priest who bound the Jedi knight to her Senator. Sabe wonders if the aged man ever realized the discord and chaos that had been unleashed from this formation of family. She sighs deeply doubting it before snapping out of herthoughts as the former decoy finds herself now in the familar place of the gardens. He was near yet she paused anyways.
"It's perfect. Just like home."
She closes her eyes reliving the moment once more. Even though it was over three years ago being in this place brought the memory back as though it was yesterday.
'May I kiss you?'
She could almost hear his whisper against her ear and feel the gentle touch of the kiss that followed. It was another lifetime ago it seemed sometimes a hidden gift a stolen moment one she would not change for the universe. Yet now it only serves to compile the pain of the moment and promptly she blinks away the tears. She hurt him deeply, undeservedly no less and should he never wish to see her again Sabe knew she would not blame him. But still she had to at least try.
Quietly she comes around a large and lush tree to catch sight of him in meditation his quiet paces marking his trance like mind set. She doesn't move or approach instead she bites her lip and just watches him, not wishing to intrupt and not feeling even worthy of sharing his presence even in this way.
I'm so sorry my dear friend she inwardly mourns. I never meant for any ot this, I only wanted to protect you but in the end I only served to cause more harm and pain then you've ever deserved.
I'm scared for her Obi-Wan..and I'm scared for you...
What in the blazes had Anakin said to her?
Obi-Wan's meditation drifted to the past, reliving the memories of the event which had happened hours ago, and along with it the painful emotions. He knew if he had arrived sooner, he would have been able to witness their confrontation, to witness their exchange.
...you're letting your emotions blind you...
On whose side? he wondered. Have I misjudging you...or Anakin?
It wasn't that he didn't believe Sabé, her fear and anger had been real enough, it was just hard to imagine Anakin coming across so threatening that he was in any way dark. Perhaps it was merely misconceptions. Yes, that would explain it. It was much easier to think of it in those terms. Some people just couldn't get along with each other and though he would be disappointed that Anakin couldn't be civil with her, he wouldn't go reporting this to the Council like he had commited some sort of crime.
Anakin was not a menace. Anakin and he had done so much good for the Republic, working side-by-side and defeating Sith. Misjudgement of character was certainly understandable if one didn't know the person very well.
Again, Obi-Wan's thoughts drifted to the past.
Obi-Wan found Sabé in the cargo hold of the queen's ship on their way back to Naboo. She was searching the wardrobe containers for battle uniforms. Fear rippled from her through the Force. 'It's all right for you to be scared, Sabé. I'd be surprised if you weren't.'
'I'm not supposed to be!' she exclaimed.
He frowned. "Says who? Your Queen?'
'No! Not her. Me...'
'I thought as much,' he replied. 'It's all right not to be perfect.'
Sabé shook her head. 'I can't fail her. Not now. Not when she needs me the most. I just can't fail her. You don't know what we're heading into. You don't know.' She closed her eyes, shaking her head.
'I think I have a fair idea,' he whispered. Enveloping her in his arms, he sent her all the comfort and support he could manage.
If only there were some way he could assure Sabé now, to let her know that he would do everything in his power to protect her and in turn she would protect her best friend. No matter the source of the threat, Obi-Wan would strive to prevent such a thing from happening. She had a right to be afraid. They were in the middle of a galatic war and it wasn't safe anywhere. Despite the security forces on Coruscant, there was always a looming threat, something they were as of yet blind to. It was there, he could feel it. He just didn't know where...
These were dangerous thoughts, similiar to the kind he'd had over the death of his master.
His mentor, friend, and father figure dead, Obi-Wan felt lost. And Sabé would not leave him alone.
'Obi-Wan, please don't do this to yourself. Is this what Qui-Gon would have wanted? For you to lock yourself away and brood?'
And then, as if on cue, Obi-Wan stopped in his tracks and looked past a tree to see a familiar shape lingering nearby. Drained as he was, he didn't need the Force to recognise her.
She doesn't really know how long she is there before he pases taking notice of her. In truth the last time she was here time seemed to slow and move of it's own accord as well. Though if she were honest with herself his presence was probably more the cause then the setting itself.
But quietly she remains unmoving, patiently waiting while inwardly battling her own struggle. She could turn and walk away force herself as hard as it would be to bury the feelings, to ignore the pain and throw herself into her work again. She did it once before years ago and that was hard enough, nevermind the fact at the time she hadn't even realized how deep those feelings for him went.
Now she knew there was no choice in the matter. She would not it of her own choice but should he ask her to walk out of his life and never return she would do it. Without question no less. She deserved whatever punishment could be given for a crime as heinous as her own. The shame and guilt is almost overwhelming now as she draws herself from her thoughts feeling his gaze turn in her direction. He looked as bad as she felt and the sight of him like this was heartwrenching.
You only have yourself to blame she thinks miserably. Whatever happens now remains to be seen but some lines are never meant to be crossed and you are now responsible for doing just that. Face the consequences and do not falter for you deserve his wrath and scorn just as you believe his 'brother' deserves yours.
At his attention she looks down at her hands feeling so concious of herself and so unworthy. Though she tried to appear stronger then she felt, to give the impression she is the impregnable wall the red around her eyes give away the tears shed earlier just as much as the shame and sorrow that pours off of her waves.
Sabé had so much strength within her and to many, he knew, her outward mask was cold and unbreakable. It would be easy for most people to overlook her vulnerabilities. The slight move of her head could tell Obi-Wan a thousand different things and as her head bowed, avoiding his glance, he knew it had taken quite a firm resolution of courage on her part to come here tonight.
Late though he only now realised it was, his expression softened as he approached.
The plans he had made in his head for this evening's event had included the garden, certainly, but not like this. Foiled like time he told them his news of being asked to join the Council.
Had she come with further proof of Anakin's darkness? It didn't look that way. She's reproaching herself, ashamed... he thought. He studied her profile, unsure what it is he out to say, or why she had come here.
She senses him nearing and it takes all of her strength not to turn away or even worse to keep the tears from escaping. She feels his eyes on her and she finds she is unable to return his gaze. Not worthy of it she mourns. STaring at her hands she quietly whispers.
"If you wish me to leave I understand completely.
But before I leave, please let me apologize first for my wretched behavior of earlier."
Except during the days when duty and loyality demanded she kept her secrets from Obi-Wan, Sabe had long since been honest with the Jedi Master. But now she found herself once more forced to keep the more volatile truth to herself knowing without question the price that was certain to be paid if she didn't. The thought disgusted her but also forced her to be honest with him in everything else that she could.
"I cannot say that I didn't mean my words when I expressed my fears about you and my lady, or the fact I sense a great darkness from...Anakin.
But I shouldn't have said it as I did. It was rude, insulting and completely inappropriate. No matter how on edge I may have been at the time, it is certainly no excuse for such poor behavior. For that I wish to apologize, that is if you will permit as such."
She says softly feeling very much at his mercy and yet relieved to be given the chance to apologize. At least if they were to part ways she would know that she was able to at least let him know she knew she was in the wrong and that she did regret it.
Taking a deep breath she quietly turns to leave deciding staying here further would only prolong the inevidible. It was painful enough as it was to be in his presence, with the beauty of this place and the fond memories it held for them both, without her lingering further to dwell on it. To do so would only serve to remind her of how empty the future will be without his presence briefly slipping in and out of her life.
Her apology touched him in ways he couldn't express. It wasn't like when Anakin astounded him at the odd sincere apology, when his were usually in jest. This was heartfelt and had a profound affect on Obi-Wan.
He was surprised that she thought he would reject her for what she had said to him out of anger.
Whether or not they maintained their mental connection via the Force, this woman before him was complex enough for the both of them. He thought he saw unshedable tears shimmering in her eyes, but in a moment she took a deep breath and turned away from him.
'Don't leave,' he implored, his voice trembling only the slightest bit with emotion. 'Please...'
Though they mayn't ever see eye to eye on their opinions of Anakin, he did not want to lose her friendship. I need you... And I'm sorry too...
She turns to leave her emotions threatening to overpower her steely control as the shame and guilt worsens. The tears collect in her eyes but Sabe forces herself not to give in. She would not allow herself to succumb to them no matter how much her heart begs her to show mercy and let it mourn. She had to be strong. She brought this on herself and she would pay the price for it properly.
But as she prepares to walk away she hears Obi-Wan's soft plea and hesistates. Though he too is careful to keep tight control of his thoughts and emotions she can pick up the slight tremble in his voice and it cuts her deeply. Closing her eyes Sabe forces herself to find her center as her struggle with her emotions worsens.
"...Are you certain this is what you want?"
She finally manages to ask in barely audible tones as though fearful that should she even speak her tightly maintained control would slip away and the rush of unbidden emotion and the tears would come against her will.
Standing between her and the path she would take to leave, Obi-Wan's feet were firmly planted.
He felt the continuing rush of unpleasant emotions and sought to remedy them in any way he could.
Obi-Wan placed a tenative hand on her shoulder as he said in a low, but resolute voice, 'Yes.'
If there was a choice, he would prefer not to lose her. Though he might not have control over much in his life, he hoped she would not walk out of it anytime soon, unless she wanted to.
Suddenly he is in front of her and quite determined not to let her pass. Despite her sorrowful d his simple gesture causes a small hint of a smile to creep into her features. But as she feels his hand on her shoulder SAbe promptly closes her eyes. It is almost too much to handle. To think of how terribly she treated him and how even now he is so kind to her leaves Sabe torn between weeping and turning away in shame.
"...I am undeserving of this kindness."
She quietly whispers.
"I have brought dishonor to your name through my words and for that I am truly ashamed. I know that a Padawan's behavior is often considered a reflection of their master. As a mentor myself I should know better then that. I hold no blame to you for Anakin, for I know without question it is I who has behaved in a dishonorable fashion."
She admits sadly feeling too guilty and shamed to even look at him.
'You are one of the most considerate people I know, Sabé,' he replied in soft tones.
More so than you will ever know, his heart echoed.
Her guilt pulsated between them and he squeezed her shoulder as he added, 'You didn't have to come here, but you did and I appreciate that.
'I know we may not agree on Anakin, but I hope that it will not come between us.'
His words moves her deeply and Sabe self conciously bite her lip in reply feeling her cheeks warm. She was undeserving of his words and yet it sent waves of relief as it meant he wasn't about to completely walk out of her life forever.
As he squeezes her shoulder his words of reassuring causes another hint of a sad smile to appear as she finally has the strength to open her eyes and glance to him now.
"...I couldn't let things end as they did.
I'd never forgive myself."
She adds softly before nodding weakly at his final remarks.
"I understand and I will do my best to keep my thoughts on the matter to myself."
She says in soft tones as her voice is filled with sincerity. Her eyes then drift to the setting around them and she quietly sighs sadly her voice once more filled with guilt.
"I'm sorry once more Obi-Wan I believe this is the second time I'm responsible for ruining things for you."
Her soft exhale was filled with guilt and he wasn't sure what to make of it. Was there something else she wasn't telling him? He couldn't be sure.
Then she spoke again.
'Ruining things for me?' Obi-Wan asked, unsure of what she meant. 'What do you mean?' She had never let him down or disappointed him before, not that he could recall.
He returned her sad look with one of confusion, but did not remove his hand.
She nods saddly at his words as she glances away.
"Remember the first time you came to see Anakin to tell him of your acceptance in the Jedi Council? We had just finished a huge fight and it ruined what should have been a momentous occasion for you.
Then of course there is today..."
She glances to her hands as she shakes her head.
"This promised to be such a peaceful evening...But I had to let my temper take control and now I've ruined things agian."
Obi-Wan normally didn't dwell on things, for it was easier to let it go, especially when one had to keep their wits about them in the middle of a war. He had only thought briefly on the interruption the last time, but hadn't placed the blame on neither her shoulders nor Anakin's. The two of them just prickled each other in the worst way possible.
'Don't worry about it,' he said. His voice was dismissive, but not callous. She was here with him now and that was what mattered in the end.
He looked up at the sky, trying to judge the time, but it was already getting dark. He would have offered that they still had time, but it was evident that wasn't the case. Perhaps it just wasn't meant to be. He offered her a small smile, assuring her that he wasn't in nearly as foul a d as he had been before she came to see him.
The setting sun danced playfully through the treetops.
His words seem to calm her fears further as once more she is filled with gratitude to his reply. Unsure how to thank him Sabe gently places her hand over his hand which rests o her shoulder and gives it a small squeeze.
Her eyes then drift to the sky as well and she furrows her brow. Twilight such a lovely time of day and yet it is always so fleeting. Another reminder that her time here is about to end. Casting a glance to him she catches his small smile and returns it shyly.
Suddenly an idea occurs to her and the thought causes her cheeks to warm slightly. She debates asking but then refrains for a moment after all he's sure to have already had something to eat but then again given the circumstances it was also probably he hasn't. So taking a risk and a deep breath she remarks sheepishly.
"I don't suppose you'd be up for an impromptu 'meeting' at terrace cafe nearby would you?"
She blushes further.
"I admit I haven't eaten since this morning and well, the thought of getting a bite to eat is a bit too tempting to pass up."
It was then he realised he himself hadn't had anything to eat since just before midday and her timid invitation was quite appealing.
Though certainly they would have had more freedom having a picnic here earlier, he was thankful they would still be able to spend time together.
He turned his hand over to take her soft hand in his. 'I would like that very much.'
She is hopeful but not overly expectant, given the strange schedule that is common for them both she presumed if he hadn't already eaten he was sure to have a meeting or another to attend to soon.
But as she feels his hand turn over and gently take hers in his Sabe finds her heart skipping a beat. It is a simple gesture but one that held so much more then words could ever express. At his acceptance to her offer Sabe is unable to resist a smile as she feels a rush of joy. Even if time wasn't on their side at least they could share what was left of it.
"After you then."
She says motioning him with her free hand to guide them out once more.
Smiling, Obi-Wan started towards the garden's entrance, pulling her lightly by the hand. He held it for as long as he could before having to let go. It would not do to ruin her name or reputation.
It was not long after that they boarded the transport that would take them near the Senate District where the café she mentioned was located.
The terrace café was only a little chilly at this time of the evening, but they were given one of the nicer tables indoors, near the window so they were able to look out over the city. The café also, thankfully, wasn't crowded.
The feel of his hand in hers warms Sabe's heart and leaves her feeling a little light-headed with joy. She knows he is careful to ensure it is safe to enjoy this small gesture and it only adds to her bliss. Ever the knight as always she inwardly thinks smiling after him in peaceful silence just basking in his calm and soothing presence.
As they enter the transport that Sabe finds herself once more regaining a little of what she had lost after their earlier fight and soon is relaxing once more enough to chat easily with the Jedi Master.
Upon entering the cafe Sabe's eyes drift through the room and is relieved to note that it isn't overly crowded, even better their table was indoors keeping them warm from the chill in the air while giving them the chance to enjoy the towering view.
As they take a seat Sabe can help but smile wryly at the realization of something.
"You're going to laugh at me for saying this, but for all the time I've spent here on this planet I don't think I've once ever been near to it's actual surface. I never realized that till now you realize? I wonder what it's like at the bottom of these towering buildings. If there is anything left of it that reveals its past."
She ponders curiously as her eyes fall to the view out the window.
Obi-Wan was extremely thankful that they were able to get past their difference of opinion, to let it go, so they would be able to enjoy each other's company. What little time they had together, he much preferred not being at odds about Anakin.
Sabé seemed to be more relaxed now as she leaned to peer out of the large window. 'Of all the years I've lived here, I never thought of it as intimidating, but I can see your point. You wouldn't want to go to the surface anyway. It's not a place for ladies.' He didn't mean that in a derogartory way, but there was so much filth and crime, it was best to be avoided if one could help it.
'Have you ever been on one of the floating restaurants? They've got great views of the Manari Mountains.' He thought it would be nice to go there with her some day, though he wouldn't be able to confirm a date or time and knew she couldn't either. It was a sweet thought nonetheless.
The d was lighter now and for that SAbe was immensely grateful. Glancing out the window she smiles before casting him a curious look.
"You've been to the surface? What is it like?"
She asks noting his remark that it definatly is no place for a lady and feeling inwardly touched by it. Had it been anyone else she would have been offended down right annoyed, but coming from him it was another matter entirely and it warms her heart instead.
But the topic takes an even lighter turn and she finds herself both curious and a little wistful at his words. Floating restaurants she had heard of them but never really had much reason to visit. Although she knew it would never come to pass the thought alone brings a smile to her lips.
"I can't say that I have, although i've been told they are quite lovely and romantic."
Her eyes sparkle mischeviously as she adds with a raised brow marking she is obviously teasing him.
"And just what would a Jedi Knight like yourself be doing in such a place as that?"
'The surface is filled with the worst sorts of people, a hive of scum and villainy,' he informed her.
At her supposition that such a place would be romantic, Obi-Wan's cheeks flushed. He certainly hadn't thought of the place like that, nor had he meant it in that way at all. He merely felt places of such beauty ought to be shared with people...
'I-,' he began, finding his throat oddly dry. 'I was there briefly as a padawan. Security detail for some Bothan priests.' He shrugged.
She laughs softly as he explains the surface is home to much scum and villainy enjoying the way the words seem to roll of his tongue. Corascanti accents never really held much appeal to her, in truth she was in truth rather indifferent to it. But the way he would say things made even the most plain and ordinary expressions sound elegant and sophisticated. And just why am I thinking like this she inwardly surmises. I sound almost as bad as Eirtae with her fiancee.
The thought promptly snaps her back to reality just in time to notice his cheeks flush as he stammers out a reply which only serves to slip her thoughts back into their previous state of mind. The flush of his cheeks and his attempts to appear more at ease gave him an air of endearment that didn't go unnoticed. At his explanation she gives him a wink as she grins.
"Oh sure you were!"
She giggles then shaking her head obviously amused at his sheepishness.
"I'm only teasing I hope you know that."
She admits finally not wishing to embaress him further.
Her response to his explanation was unexpected. Then Obi-Wan knew she was making fun of him. 'Well, you know those Bothan priests can get a bit unruly...' he said, going in the same vein as her teasing.
They placed their orders with a droid and were served refreshments.
He took a sip of the tea he'd ordered, thankful to quinch his parched throat. The dying sun glimmered through the windows at just the right angles to cause an eerily reddish-orange glow to shine through, bringing out all sorts of different colours in her hair that he hadn't noticed before.
He wondered what it would be like to see her with her hair freely flowing past her shoulders. It had been over a decade since he saw it loosened from the various ornate styles she wore it in. His thoughts drifted to that night on Tatooine when she'd stumbled in on him in the 'fresher and his cheeks turned a darker red as he thought of her in her nightgown.
She laughs heartily at his words unable to resist his teasing as she shakes her head slightly.
"You're terrible you know that?"
She remarks before thanking placing her order as she too sips on her tea as a comfortable silence falls between them once more. The setting sun casts colors and shadows on the Jedi master's face and Sabe can't help but notice how it seemed to bring out the color in his eyes...and cheeks.
That is when she noticed just how dark his cheeks had turned leaving her curious as to what was on his mind. Furrowing a brow she wonders if perhaps he had taken more offence to her teasing then she thought.
"Your blushing even more then I did after that dare fell through years ago."
She says with a grin unaware of just how close she was to the cause of his burning cheeks. But almost as soon as she admits this her own cheeks light up on fire as her thoughts are filled with the rather awkward mental image.
"...Which we're definatly not going to reminisce about"
She quickly adds instantly trying to recover from her blunder.
Obi-Wan didn't think it was possible for him to be more embarrassed than he already was, but then she brought up the very thing...
'You weren't reading my mind just now, were you?' he asked, stunned that she had brought it up.
He was more embarrassed about what he had been thinking about her than the event itself and hoped she hadn't seen, that...
Oh dear... he thought when her cheeks began to glow. Perhaps it was just the sun? No, it wasn't just the sun....
She blinks at his question raising a brow as she shakes her head.
"...I don't know how to..."
She remarks before realizing the meaning of his words as her cheeks now seem to glow like a sun gone super nova.
"...I..."
She frantically tries to find a way around this figuring perhaps he had seen her thoughts, but no that couldn't be possible as he was blushing first. Quickly burying that thought before it took a path she didn't want to explore as she suddenly finds her tea to be quite fascinating.
"...Forget I said that..."
She mutters sheepishly.
Her reaction lessened his own embarrassment and he chuckled.
'You started it!' he accused her, still beaming as she stared into the depths of her tea mug.
'Besides, I hardly think it was fair,' he added in a softer voice. 'There I was on a ship full of three lovely young women and I didn't have a chance to wander in on you.' He didn't say 'any of you' just 'you' and once he realised this, he lost the courage to continue down that path.
'I mean uh...' He rubbed the back of his neck.
She glances up as she tries to balk at him though failing miserably as hints of a grin crosses her blushing features.
"I started nothing! It was you who claimed to be thinking such things in the first place!"
She replies quietly resisting the urge to poke out her tongue before his quiet remarks completely catches her off guard. Her jaw drops slightly as she feels her cheeks turn an even brighter shade of red (if that is even possible).
"I can't believe you just said that! You are such a scoundrel!"
She says whispering in surprise and amusement before her expression turns mischevious as she raises a brow.
"Besides I hardly think you would have been able to sneak a chance anyway! We took turn guarding the door."
She states in quiet but proud tones though her eyes are still dancing with amusement.
'I'm sorry,' he replied, even though she radiated amusement. 'I didn't mean to say that. That was quite crass of me--'
Obi-Wan stumbled over his apology.
'It's just that I saw the light in your hair and was thinking about the only time I ever saw it down--and it happened to be the night you--' He broke off, shaking his head.
'Never mind. It's inappropriate. I apologise.'
She laughs softly at his words her cheeks still warm from the earlier remarks as she shakes her head.
"It's alright as you said I did start all this anyways, so i should be the one apologizing."
She says lightheartedly before he fumbles to explain himself which only served to makes her blush further. For in truth his words touched her deeply and she suddenly found herself wishing she had kept her hair in a more relaxed fashion but it was too late for that as she glances to her tea as he apologizes once more causng her to look up with a playful smile.
"I don't know who apologizes more, me or you. This is definately a habit we must break! I think thats all we have been doing tonight...Well...Outside of the one that was definatly necessary."
she says turning shy as the memory of her volatile outburst fills her with guilt once more.
'Well, at least we are in the habit of being polite,' he said, smirking at her before taking a sip of tea.
Obi-Wan felt the rise of guilt once more and said, 'Now, none of that. Please...'
When their meals came, it was then that his hunger resurfaced. He'd been so out of the present when he was meditating that he hadn't felt the normal pangs of hunger. 'If you hadn't come to see me, I might have forgotton to eat anything today and starved, so you see, it all worked out.'
She smile slightly at his words before glancing out the window as he sips on his tea before her expression falls slightly at the memory of the earlier events. But at Obi-Wan's words she glances back to him as an apologetic smile hints at her lips.
As their food arrives she turns sheepish to his plaintive explanations.
"You always have a way around things don't you?"
She asks offering a small smile as she knows he is trying to cheer her up as best he can. Surprisingly it actually seemed to lighten her from her dark thoughts.
'It beats brooding,' he admitted, thinking on the time she'd confronted him over Qui-Gon's death, telling him he shouldn't be locking himself up all alone. He slyly sent a wink her way and continued eating.
Obi-Wan felt a slight tremor in the Force as if someone were headed their way or watching them. His brow furrowed and he took a quick glance around, but didn't spot anyone. Figuring it was foresight, he went about eating again, but remained silent.
At his remarks and sly wink her smile widens. He always did know how to lighten her d and soon she is once more feeling at ease.
Enjoying his quiet company she eats in silence for a bit letting her thoughts wander she notices his brow furrowing as he glances around. Instantly her instincts take over as she chides herself inwardly for not being more alert. If there as trouble nearby they could have easily made their move and she would have certainly missed it. The thought both embaresses and frustrates her though she notice Obi-Wan has since return to his meal though his silence spoke volumes to the former decoy.
"Did I miss something?"
She asks quietly her eyes now watchful though nothing has yet to be seen or regarded as unusual.
At her question, he replied, 'It was nothing,' shaking his head.
And seeing that she was attempting to be more alert, he assured her, 'It happens sometimes, getting possible visions of future occurances.' He took a sip of tea before continuing.
'I think you need to spend more time around Jedi,' he teased.
Her eyes still move through the cafe taking in anything and everything can and putting it to memory as best as she can. At his remarks she furrows her brow slightly.
"Are you so certain?"
At his explanation she looks a little curious but gaurded. If there was one thing she learnt over the years is that destiny and fate had a way of finding those who are trying desperatly to avoid it. As such she tried to be alert when such divinations are given. Not to avoid or to make it come to pass, rather be ready for any signs of guidance or wisdom it may offer.
"What exactly did you see then?"
To his teasing she offers a coy smile and a raised brow.
"I don't know about that, although I can think of one Jedi I'd prefer to spend more time with, fate permitting of course."
She says innocently before taking a moment to sip on her tea.
He smiled shyly back at her before sobering. He informed her, 'It was someone skulking around the café like they were looking for something or someone. It was more of a feeling like I was being watched than anything else. Although with this sort of vision, it could very well be anyone else, just that I'm experiencing it from my point of view. Do you know what I mean?'
It was hard to explain to someone who hadn't had such visions. It was much easier to explain to Anakin, who sometimes couldn't tell dreams from premonitions. She blushes to his shy smile inwardly realizing how that must have sounded and suddenly grateful no one else heard. But as he sobers her expression turns thoughtful to his explanation. Furrowing her brow slightly she pauses considering his words before nodding slightly.
"In other words you may have been seeing something through anothers eyes?"
She bites her lip unsure if that even made sense either.
"So basically your saying someone could be watching another person in this room for example. But your experiencing it as though you were the one being watched?
Either way it sounds complicated. How do handle such premonitions?"
She asks curious now although inwardly grateful such a skill was not bestowed upon her. After all she wasn't sure if she'd be strong enough not to let such things control her actions.
'That's the idea,' he replied, pleased that she understood what he meant. 'We're taught that the future is always in motion, so it's best not to follow through on such visions, but to take things as they come.'
He paused, thinking on how Sabé's own reactions. 'Our first reaction was to raise our awareness of everything around us, right? If I have a bad feeling about something, then I proceed with caution, but don't alter my previous course. Things always have a way of working themselves out.'
It was the will of the Force after all, the good and the bad, he thought.
'Could you imagine only going by what little hints of one possible future might do? To know the future is to be trapped by it, which is why it's best not to rely on such visions.'
She smiles feeling a little proud of herself for understanding this complicated concept and yet relieved to know that he takes the premonitions with caution.
She furrows a brow slightly at his final remarks as though putting it to memory.
"But it must be hard not to let it influence one's actions. To know what could happen and not know if it will or if your actions will worsen what is to pass."
She remarks gently as she can only imagine the burden that comes with such an ability.
'I try not to think about it. Doing so is futile,' he said with a slight shrug before taking another sip of tea. 'Everything that is meant to happen will, in its own time.'
Obi-Wan figured it would be quite a burden if one was trapped by their visions, never being able to act. They would be come inept, sterile, emmasculated...useless as a Jedi and a person.
'Tell me, have you ever had dream visions?' He wondered if she might have since she seemed to understand the concept so well and visions whilst asleep were the most prevelant amoung Force sensitive individuals.
She sips on her tea listening to his words thoughtfully as she nods.
"That is wise. So many people get lost in the future and the past that they forget to live in the present and doing so let it slip through their fingers."
His question catches her attention as Sabe furrows her brow slightly. In truth she never had anything that she would call a vision. All her dreams usually were either a bit on the silly side, or completely too strange to be of any importance, or sometimes just sometimes when she is most fortunate they were of past events and wistful wishes. Those were the ones she liked the best the brief images that danced in her sleep of her holding the Jedi knight's hand with barefeet in the grass. Of the seeing his gentle smile.
Her cheeks warm finding this foolish thinking to be less then appropriate before deciding to lighten the d as she puts on as much of a straight face as she can.
"I don't know, perhaps I've had one or two...Pertaining to a sneaking in on a certain Jedi to steal his lightsaber, who was snoring so loudly that it would drown a parade's band.
Or of attempting to show off said trophy prize stolen, only to accidently activate it and scare the wits out of fellow handmaidens only not to get caught of it because the snoring was so loud he couldn't hear-"
She giggles unable to keep the facade anymore as she grins obviously teasing before blushing as she realizes she just admitted about what a fool she was after stealing his lightsaber.
"But seriously, I can't say I have had such an experience."
She promptly replies trying to go back to being serious but unable to stifle back giggles at the memory.
Obi-Wan set down his cup of tea, startled. 'Wait--you activated it?' Obviously it was in the past, so if anyone had been hurt, he would have known about it, but the news was quite shocking.
A prickle of wonderment shot through him. 'You didn't kill anyone I know, did you?' he asked with laughter in his voice.
She turns beet red at his shock as she glances away biting her lip.
"...you weren't supposed to find out about that..."
She mutters before quickly adding.
"I assure you it wasn't on purpose! I was jsut fooling around...And well i accidently triggered it..."
She admits sheepishly purposely leaving out the bit the victory dance that went with it or the dramatic display of her "sneak" attack. At his question she shakes her head slinking a little in her seat her face burning so bad she is certain she could light up a room with her glowing cheeks.
"...No but I almost cut Rabe's bed in half if that counts...Though i'm seriously surprised you didn't hear them screaming for me to shut it off...Or me panicking when i didn't know how to do so"
She remarks sheepishly not finding this nearly as amusing he finds it.
Obi-Wan couldn't help chuckling at this. Her slouching further in her seat and burning hceeks just added to his amusement. 'I'm sorry,' he snickered, trying to regain some control over the humour, but then she added the bit about the bed and it was futitle. He laughed aloud.
'I'm sorry,' he said again, finally getting his laughter under control. The image of her trying to figure out how to turn it off and handmaidens screaming should have been disconcerting, but as it was when they were much younger, it was just too funny to resist.
He leaned over the table a bit, so he could tell her, 'Next time I can show you how to wield one properly, if you have the mind to.' He smiled.
She sighs shaking her head at him as he snickers.
"It's not funny. It was down right frightening nevermind embaressing!"
She retorts although she is now unable to resist a smile as he bursts out laughing. It wasn't often that she was able to see him so relaxed and though in truth it is at her expense Sabe rather enjoyed how happy he looked. His eyes dancing with amusement as the tension that normally was held in his brow and the corners of his eyes suddenly disappear.
For a moment her own embaressment is melted away as suddenly the former decoy finds herself suddenly lost in the moment. Forgetting her surroundings Sabe's eyes are now only filled with his image as she gazes at him in silence enjoying all that is the Jedi knight before her. That is till his apology snaps her out of her silent daze as Sabe offers him a sheepish grin as she shakes her head.
"If anything I should be the one apologizing. After all I wa the one who did steal your lightsaber."
However at his offer to show her how to wield it she feels both shy and excited at the same time. In truth this was another one of her unspoken daydreams and to hear it outloud causes her to be concious of herself and yet touched by his invitation at the same time.
"I would like that very much."
She admits softly her gaze holding his for a moent before she shyly glances at her hands.
She was so...cute when she was embarrassed. Although he felt bad for laughing when she was uncomfortable, he couldn't help it.
He shook his head at her apology, grinning. Force bond or not, hey were constantly aware of the other's feelings and strove not to offend or cause discord.
'Well, Force willing, I'll show you someday.'
As they finished up their meal, more people were filtering into the café and it started to get more crowded. Obi-Wan had to resume a more formal appearance which was becomming a nuisance albeit second-nature.
Obi-Wan was not one for deception. Unlike his apprentice, he would not force her to leave while he would stay to take care of the bill, or leave her there as he left first. There was no sneaking around for him. He would courteously escort her back to her quarters and should anyone question him about it, he would tell them the truth, that they were both involved in security matters and were both hungry.
She smiles nodding slightly at his words her expression turning a little wistful as she sips on her tea.
"I will look forward to it then."
The crowds were beginning to fill teh small cafe and Sabe inwardly sighs knowing it's time to play the ruse once more. Turning more professional she does begin to turn the topic to matters of war as in truth she is curious to learn what she can and offer any help he may need.
Inwardly she knows some may find this as a cause of suspicion but she doesn't let it bother her. She had nothing to hide and neither did he. Obi-Wan had long since proved his loyalty to his duties, just as she did. As such neither are so foolish as to throw it away for the sake of personal attachments. Their duties were their pride, joy and honor and when they swore the oaths required of their positions they took it to heart and still do. The thought gives her a rush of pride as she quietly finishes her meal once more grateful to be able to be considered his friend.
Obi-Wan filled her in to as much as he knew, hoping that he would be able to provide some useful information to her. He felt the slight jolt of disappointment from her, but had the same feeling himself.
He enjoyed her company either way, although privately wishing the events with Anakin hadn't happened so they would have been able to have that picnic...
