AHHHHHH! Aloha all...
I know... it's been a while. I could sit here and give you every excuse in the book, but that would take away from your reading time. And I've made you wait enough as it is already.
So... TAH DAH! I won't make you wait anymore. READ ON!
I awoke to the brisk morning air fluttering across my bare thighs. Behind Obi Wans almost snore, I could hear the birds proclaiming a new day. I smiled contentedly as I nuzzled more into the crook of my husband's shoulder.
My thoughts drifted to the events this past year. The dark side was working against us, there was no denying that. But we had the light side of the force there beside us, to guide us through every step of the way. We were lucky, he and I.
Yet, as I lay there thinking, I didn't think I would feel so... changed. Not just over the past year, because let's face it, dying tends to change a person. But I felt... complete. Different than I had yesterday. Like as if reaching our year mark was a physical hurdle we has just surpassed. Yet, it wasn't quite that. Why can't I pinpoint this?
"You alright love?" Obi Wan raised up on his elbow. I didn't even notice him wake. "You're doing that thing where you're making faces while you think."
I smiled, delighted to see his vibrant blue eyes staring back at me. "Never been better"
He leaned in, kissing my forehead tenderly. "Good" He then flung the blankets off us, exposing our bareness to the morning chill. "Now, let's go get some breakfast. I'm famished. All this love-making requires nourishment." He hopped to his feet, and went for the refresher.
Feeling the cold begin to seep into me from the sudden lack of body heat and coverings, I curled up into a ball, taking the pillow that had rested Obi Wans head and covered my arms and chest with it's meager mass.
I was almost comfortable with the warmth I accumulated, that is until I heard Obi Wan enter the room again. "C'mon Love. I have a few plans for today. We best get an early start." He playfully smacked my butt before throwing a dress on top of me.
Realizing he wouldn't give in, I grumbled as I stretched, rolling off the bed and onto the unbelievably furry carpet.
I heard his chuckle as he came to assist. "You alright love?" He reached down his arm to pull me up.
"I would say 'ow', but this is really, TRULY soft. Obi Wan feel this." I grasped his arm, and pulled him down the the ground next to me.
"OW! Amy, why..." Perplexity echoed across his face "Sweet baby bantha fur, you're right" He pulled back slightly to examine the fuzzy carpet. "How on Naboo did they get it so soft? Is it real fur?"
There was a sudden knock on the door.
Startled, Obi Wan and I stared momentarily at each other before scrambling to our feet. Obi Wan, who was gratefully clothed on the bottom ushered me quickly to the refresher before he darted over to the door.
I heard faint voices from the hallway, before Obi Wan responded with a simple "Thank you" and closed the door.
"Who was that?" I asked, as I turned on the shower, giving the water some time to warm before stepping in.
"It was just Rudy. She wanted to let us know that breakfast was about ready." He walked his way into the refresher, reaching his hand into the water, before adjusting it's temperature. "How do you feel about dancing?"
"Dancing?!" I half laughed, before realising he was genuinely curious. "Well, I don't really know. I've never really thought about it." I pulled my hair up with my hands, wondering how other women here wore theirs.
"Would you be willing to try it? There's a ball tonight, and I think that it would be a great way to mingle."
Mindlessly frustrated with my ridiculous hair poses, I climbed into the now warm shower. "A ball? It sounds so... fancy."
"So is that a yes?" Obi Wan spoke through the steam filled glass wall between us.
"Sure" I shrugged. "I'm game"
"Ok." Obi Wan stated simply, as if he still was convincing himself.
"Do YOU want to go?" I asked, hearing the uncertainty in his tone.
"Oh. Yes. I guess..." There were a few moments of heavy silence. "Amy, I've never danced before."
"It's alright. You're a quick learner. You'll catch on."
"But Amy, we're supposed to be aristocrats. Dancing is part of who they are, what they've grown up with."
"Don't worry Obi Wan. I'll teach you."
"BEN." He enunciated loudly "And have you ever danced before?"
"Sure have. My father taught me." That last thought was somber as I remembered those delightful memories, when my father was happy. When he was whole. When the dark side had no hold on him.
"I'm not sure about this" Obi Wan fussed.
"Nonsense. It's just like fighting, just less... violent." I lathered the soap into my hair. It was silent now, so I used my hand to wipe away some of the fog on the glass. I saw Obi Wan staring at himself in the slowly fogging mirror. "Now," I opened the shower door. "are you coming in or not?"
I saw a smile creep over his face. "I'm already half dressed. And Rudy will have breakfast ready soon."
"So." I shrugged, luring him in with my seductive charm.
Obi Wan stood there contemplating before quickly removing his trousers. "Why do you have to be so damn sexy?" he smiled as he climbed in next to me, the water dripping down his ever dampening hair.
"I thought I'd find you here"
Guilt sneakishly fluttered across my face, as my fingers continued to caress the cold white keys.
"There are some who would say that it's unfair, having so much talent contained in one being, so beautiful."
I smirked as I watched the rapid movements that had become second nature to me. "Oh really, Master Lurik. And what would you say?"
I could feel his smile, even as my eyes remain focused to the piano before me.
"I say, who cares what they think?! They're just jealous."
I snorted, not expecting his answer to be so vain. "Obi... Ben." I corrected myself. "I hardly think it possible, a man so devoted to the ways of the force could carry such a thought"
"That's what's great. I am most definitely not a force sensitive man, and you, my dear" He approached the side of the piano, his arms held rigidly behind his back. "You are bewitching"
Ceasing my mindless melody, I looked up into the eyes of my beloved. "What are you hiding?" I smiled, seeing the silently subtle effort he was making, trying to keep whatever it was out of my view.
"I have no idea what you are talking about" He honestly tried to not be so honest.
"You're a terrible liar. You always have been."
He looked hurt, in an almost mocking sort of way. "ouch"
I giggled before standing to sneak a peek. "What is it?"
He simply shook his head now, happy that his frame was large enough to keep the item concealed.
Curiosity was bubbling inside me now. "Please!?" I had led him into a corner before he even realised what I was doing.
"Stang Woman!"
I smirked as he leaned down for a kiss.
I obliged, the whole while trying to reach behind his back for whatever lay peak to my curiosity.
He laughed inside my mouth. "Someone's impatient"
A playful rage lit within me as I tried to maneuver myself up his torso. "Just give in already. I'm dying to know what it is."
He was laughing hard now as he wrestled against my assaults. "Amy, you can't just climb on a person when they won't give up their secrets."
I stopped just long enough to look defiantly in his eyes. "Yes I can" I then hoisted myself over his shoulder, catching a flash of color before his jedi reflexes kicked in, hiding it again from my gaze. "THAT'S CHEATING!"
Aghast, he chuckled. "And this isn't?" He gestured to my tiny frame, scrambling about his large one.
"I'm not cheating, I'm adapting"
"sure you are..."
I soon found myself pinned in the corner, both legs drooped over Obi Wan's shoulders. He gazed amusedly up at me as my crotch lie dangerously close to his face. I blushed, suddenly extremely turned on by our predicament. Obi Wan was just as equally turned on, as I could feel his breath become more ragged against the bare skin on my thighs.
"It's too bad you're not naked" Obi Wan got that look in his eye.
"NO! Not until I find out what you were hiding" I crossed my arms firmly, holding my ground... well, my corner.
He rather hurriedly shoved a bouquet of flowers in my face. "There!"
I smiled deeply as I brought the flowers closer, smelling it's exotic scent. "Oh, they're beautiful. How did you kn...OH!" I gasped, suddenly grasping for the wall behind me. He had somehow managed to scoot the remainder of my skirt up my hips, and was now licking at the thin cloth separating his tongue from my mound.
I closed my eyes in delight, savoring each sensation his mouth had to offer.
"Ehem"
The sound was so soft, I almost thought I had made it up. But as I drunkenly opened my eyes, there was indeed a source for it. Wide eyed and panicked, I stumbled sideways and to the ground with a hard thud. My elbow most certainly becoming acquainted with the hardwood floor. I winced, grunting away the desire to cry.
Obi Wan gently lifted me to my feet, bring me to eye-level with the 3 people now standing in the doorway.
"I beg your pardon Masters, I did not know..." Rudy babbled quickly, racing to my side to inspect my now bruised elbow.
"It's alright, Rudy. We didn't know ourselves" Obi Wan admitted sheepishly. "I did leave the door open after all."
I then came to the horrible realization that there were two other people standing there. And not servant people either. No, there was a man and a woman, both dressed in fine attire. I stared, dumbfoundedly at the elegant porcelain face before me. Her painted lips growing wider as she became amused by the situation.
"What did I tell you, Jonathan, there's truth behind the rumors." She stood there just smirking at me for the longest time.
"You're right, as always" the man spoke, a hint of annoyance in his tone.
"Jonathan, it's nice to see you again." Obi Wan outstretched his hand.
"Ben." The man graciously accepted. "I apologize for just popping in like this. Alice, here, was just too eager to meet you two. And we both know what that can be like when the wife wants something."
"Indeed" Obi Wan tried hard to hide his smirk as he glanced my way.
Awkwardness began to creep silently into the room, as I just stood there, unsure of what was going on, and painfully aware of the throbbing sting in my elbow.
"Stang, I'm sorry!" Obi Wan bumbled "Amy, this it Jonathan. I met him earlier today at the local market. He's the one who will be hosting the ball tonight. And this is his wife..."
"Alice" the woman stated, still unable to take her eyes off me. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Amy, is it?"
I nodded shyly, unable to keep her gaze.
"How long will you be staying here?" Jonathan asked casually, as if awkwardness were a normal custom for him.
"We're not sure yet. Amy's uncle was generous enough to let us stay here for a time as we celebrate our anniversary. It really just depends on when the outside world is in need of me again. One can only stay unnoticed for so long" Obi Wan was doing all of the talking. I clutched his bicep gratefully.
"What is it that you do?" Alice asked, all the while her eyes still analyzing me.
"I'm apprenticing under her uncle in the political arena"
"Republic or Separatist?" Alice raised an eyebrow.
"Well, Amy's uncle is firmly Republic. However, the more I get involved, the more flaws I see with the system. But there's definitely flaws with the Separatists as well. I think we need to rethink what qualifies as good government. Are we all just destined to choose between two evils? Why are we content with..."
"Ben," I interjected calmly "I'd hate to bore our guests with talk of politics."
Inside, I was truly impressed. Obi Wan HATED politics. What I had just heard was more than I'd ever hear him say in regards to it. He'd definitely hear about this later.
"Sorry" Obi Wan stated "I can get a bit carried away."
"It's quite alright" Alice nodded. "A friend of my aunt will be joining us tonight at the ball. I'm quite sure he'd love to speak about it with you. He seems to be involved a bit in the political arena as well."
"Sounds like an absolute delight" Obi Wan had to put extra umph of excitement in that last sentence. I could tell he was already sorry for bringing up the subject.
"Well, we won't keep you. I'm sure you have much to do to get ready for tonight." Alice curtsied politely to Obi Wan. "Amy" She nodded, as she turned my way. "I must say, you are stunning. I look forward to seeing you all fancied up tonight." She bowed slightly, then walked out the door.
Jonathan bowed quickly to us both before following after his wife.
I shuddered. Not quite sure why I felt so... used.
"I feel slightly nauseous. All this talk of politics..." Obi Wan stated when we heard the main hall door close with a thud.
Brushing aside my feelings of unease, I smirked. "I didn't know you were so passionate about it"
"Shush" he giggled as he pulled me into him, placing a tender kiss on my nose. "So, what do you think?"
I felt the unease creep in again. "I think he's nice..."
"Yeah. His wife though. Did you see the creepy way she couldn't keep her eyes off you? I couldn't tell whether she was trying to kill you mentally or seduce you."
I sighed heavily, grateful my mind was not making those feelings up.
"Oh, Love!" Obi Wan whispered gently as he wiped a tear from my cheek. "What's wrong?"
WHY AM I CRYING!? "I'm just relieved, is all" I nuzzled my face into his shoulder.
"Sweety, I will NEVER let her touch you. Whether it be to kill you or seduce you." A hint of humor laced the seriousness of his tone.
I smiled, grateful I did not need to use words to convey my emotions. "I love you" my whisper lost it's way into his embrace.
"and I, you"
"Amy, hurry! We're gonna be late"
"Weren't you the one always saying that we need to make more fashionable entrances?!" I shouted down the stairs into the main hall.
"Yes, but there's a difference between being fashionably late and just being inconsiderate."
"Oh Heavens, it's only five minutes." I stepped out at the top of the staircase, fearful that the deadly combination between really tall shoes and a very long dress may result in a catastrophic tumble down the stairs. "I hate these shoes" I stated bluntly.
An incoherent noise escaped from Obi Wan's mouth as I looked up just in time to see him spit water out his mouth. His eyes widened as he looked me over. "Wow" was all he could mutter.
I blushed slightly at his moment of speechlessness. Looking down at my feet in order to hide my red face, I took that as an opportunity to brave my way down each step of the staircase. When I had finally reached the bottom, I glanced up to see Obi Wan stealthily hide his lightsaber in his dress robes. I smirked to myself as he guiltily caught my gaze.
"What?! With you looking the way you do, I may have to fight off the other men."
"or women..." I shivered, remembering the scrutinizing gaze of Alice, just a few short hours ago.
"I will fight off anyone you wish, M'lady" Obi Wan extended his elbow, ready to escort me out the door.
"Well, thank you my kind sir!" I smiled at his gallant promise, taking his arm graciously.
Just outside, the sun was beginning to descend almost over the mountains. I climbed into the carriage, excited for this strange new opportunity before us. Yet, as we drew closer and closer, I sensed something that just didn't sit right.
"Do you feel that?" I whispered low enough, so that only Obi Wan could hear.
Obi Wan looked solemnly into my eyes and nodded. "Do you want to go back? I can think of a few things we could do with the remainder of our anniversary."
Smirking, I shook my head. "No, this is why we're here, isn't it? Plus, I don't sense any danger. Just something that doesn't feel right."
He studied my gaze a bit longer, then nodded. "Alright then." He squoze my hand reassuringly.
"Amy, Darling, I'm positively delighted that you came! You look absolutely breathtaking! Come, I can't wait to show you off to everyone." Alice squealed as she interlocked her arm with mine. We has just barely entered the hall before she seemed to have popped out of nowhere. Her demeanor was a stark contrast to what I had witnessed at our first meeting.
Shocked, but pleasantly surprised, I glanced up at Obi Wan who had been holding my other arm. He shrugged as we made eye contact, but was quickly brought back to the moment.
"Ben, how do you live with such beauty?! I fear that if I possessed something so divine, everything else would become bland and boring." She laughed lightly, while waving at another pair of guests.
"That's the curse I bear, I'm afraid" He replied as he beamed down at me.
"Jonathan! Good, you're here. Why don't you go show Ben your blaster collection while I show Amy off to the others. I'm sure He'd LOVE to see it."
I snorted, knowing Obi Wan's stance on blasters. Quickly trying to cover my humor, I mimicked a small coughing fit. I looked up in time to see Obi Wan give me the eye. He knew I found it humorous.
"Yes Ben" I grinned with utter delight. "I know how much you love blasters!" I then turned to Alice, "Although, I can't imagine why. I think they're so uncivilized. Inhumane, even."
Obi Wan nodded politely, but his eyes kept their playful glare. He hesitantly let go of my arm. "Will you be okay?" I heard his voice in my head.
Suddenly aware of Alice's pull, I looked up and nodded. "I'll be fine." I smiled. I then watched as he followed Jonathan out of the Grand Hall. I was then led around the Hall by Alice.
It was a bit exciting, truthfully, meeting new people and talking about the most menial things. I don't think I've ever received so many compliments in my life, let alone in 1 hour. And surprisingly the more time I spent with Alice, the more foolish I felt for ever worrying about her. She was wonderful. She's one of those people that can get along with almost everyone. I always envied people like her.
As we approached the last wing of the large hall, I suddenly bumped into someone. "I'm so sorry" I fumbled as I maneuvered to keep my balance. I felt a pair of strong arms reach out to hold me steady.
"It is I who should be apologizing"
My heart froze. That voice. It can't be!
I looked up into the face of the man now standing before me.
"Count Dooku, I'm delighted you could make it tonight. I hope your journey was not too tiresome." Alice spoke kindly.
"Not in the least. I'm glad to have made it in time. I haven't missed the feast, I hope"
"You're just in time" Alice smiled before suddenly looking startled. "Oh, how rude of me! Count Dooku, this is Amy. She is staying at her uncle's home for a time. Amy, this is Count Dooku. He's the man I was talking to Ben about earlier." She said it all so casually that it took me a moment to register the fact that this was not a battle, and I had to act civilized.
"It's a pleasure" I curtsied, scared to make eye contact. What if he recognizes me? It'll blow everything.
"The pleasure is indeed mine" He took my hand, kissing my knuckles lightly. And for a brief moment, our gazes met. "Who is your uncle? I am quite acquainted with many of the dignitaries here on this side of the galaxy."
"Bail Organa. He's more of an adopted uncle. My mother and him were close friends. He was letting my husband and I stay in his summer home for a short while."
"Senator Organa. A dignified man indeed. I had been hoping to lure him over to the side of the separatists, but I fear he is too much of a traditionalist."
"Amy's husband, Ben is also into politics. He is apprenticing under Organa." Alice piped up delightedly.
"Oh, I see. I shall have to meet this Ben. Maybe he'll be the foot in the door that I've been looking for."
I nodded lightly, unsure of how I was keeping it all together. "I'm sure he'd love that. If you'll excuse me, I need to go wash up before supper." I looked around the hall for the refresher.
"Down the hall that way" Alice nodded politely, pointing down toward the same hall that Obi Wan had been herded off to.
I nodded graciously before turning around. "just breathe" I whispered repeatedly to myself as I searched for the refresher. The moment I found it, I quickly darted inside, locking the door behind me. I then leaned my back against it, sliding down into a heap of fluffy material. I leaned my head back against the door as I stared up at the intricate ceiling, fighting off the urge to cry.
Okay, I need to focus. It was a miracle that Dooku did not recognize me. But if he saw Obi Wan, I KNOW there would be a fiasco. "Obi Wan" I sent shakily through the force. "I need you!"
"Amy? What's wrong?" I heard his voice in my mind, comforting my thoughts, if only just a little. "Where are you?"
"The refresher" I stated, unable to say much more.
"I'll be right there"
"DON'T GO INTO THE MAIN HALL!" I frantically added.
It was silent for a moment as I buried myself further into my thoughts. Then came a small knock at the door. "Amy?"
I unlocked the door from where I sat in my despair. Moving a little so that Obi Wan could shimmy his way through the small opening.
When the door was finally closed again, I quickly locked it, before gathering all the fluff close to me in frustration.
Obi Wan knelt down to where I was, he reached out his hand tenderly to caress my cheek. "What's wrong, Love?"
"Dooku" I whispered as a tear trickled down my cheek. "UGH! why am I crying?!"
"What about Dooku? Did you see something about Anakin? Is he alright?"
"No" I looked firmly up into Obi Wan's concerned eyes. "Dooku is here"
Obi Wan turned a few shades whiter. "This could ruin everything" he said aloud to himself. "You're sure it was him?"
Chuckling somberly, I wiped a tear from my cheek with the hem of my dress. "Oh, I'm positive. He rather bluntly suggested that we discuss politics together."
"Wait, you spoke with him?"
"Yeah, weird. Right?!"
"And he didn't recognize you?"
"No" I shook my head, not quite believing it myself.
Obi Wan looked as though he had a brilliant idea, but then painfully looked away.
"What is it?"
"Nothing. Let's just hope that his stay is short."
"No, you had an idea"
"It's nothing Amy. Drop it"
"You thought I should use this as a chance to get into his circle!" I stated accusingly.
"That's not going to happen Amy. It's too dangerous."
"And this isn't?" I poked at my ribcage, prodding the restraining corset that was covering my torso.
"I told you not to wear that. And this is completely different."
"How?!" I raised my voice slightly.
"BECAUSE I CAN'T BE THERE TO PROTECT YOU!" Obi Wan whispered harshly. He then took a deep breath, calming his nerves.
I wanted to bite back. I wanted to prove that I could handle myself. But I knew his heart. This was no test of strength. This was his genuine concern with my well being. He'd fought Dooku before and barely escaped. Though I wanted to protest, I knew he was afraid for me.
I took a deep breath. "Obi Wan" I whispered low, "I have to do this. You know I do." I reached up my hand to his cheek. "If we both suddenly disappear, how suspicious will that look? Not to mention, think of all that I could learn, not only to help against the separatists, but also the sith. This is a huge opportunity! We'd be foolish not to take it."
"But what if he should find out your identity? What if I can't be there to save you?! I can't lose you again!"
I smiled, recalling the bittersweet feelings from my previous encounter with death. "Trust our love. Trust the force. We both still have a prophecy to fulfill."
He lowered his head, nodding defeatedly. "alright"
I got to my knees, kissing his forehead tenderly. "Only you and I know he's Sith. He won't do anything publicly to reveal his dark side. I'll be safe as long as others are around."
He nodded again, "Beautiful and smart. How did I get so lucky?"
I smiled, grateful for his trust. "I best be back. I only said I was washing up." I pulled up his chin so that his gaze met mine. I could see the pain and worry behind his eyes. "I'll be fine. You go home, and I'll be there soon. It's still our anniversary and I'm looking forward to a nice candle-lit bath with my beloved husband."
He pulled my lips to his, tenderly. "Please be careful" His arms wrapped protectively around me. "I love you"
"And I, you"
"Oh good Amy, I saved you a seat right here between the Count and myself. Where's Ben?"
"I'm afraid that he has fallen ill. However, he wanted to make sure that I still had a good time."
"Well, that's a shame. I was looking forward to having a little political conversation with him." Dooku commented.
"I was looking forward to that as well." I mentioned as I took my assigned spot between the two.
"Really?!" Dooku raised an eyebrow. "What's your take on politics M'lady?"
Not expecting a reciprocation to my comment, I nearly choked on the liquid I had brought to my lips just moments before, gulping it nervously down. "I find it dull and a waste of time. Spending hours upon hours in rooms, forced to compromise with those who know nothing of the situation seems rather frustrating. How my husband does it, I have no idea."
"Sounds like you've had some experience in the political arena." He read a little too close into my comment.
"I've seen my share of heated arguments, let's just say that."
"So how would you see a government run?"
Well I was not expecting this at all. "Um... I guess much like how the republic was set up to be. My feeling is that the government should be run by it's citizens. Who better to understand the importance of a situation than the people living it?"
"Was? Do you feel that it is no longer what it used to be?" a smirk crossed his lips.
Darn it. I was hoping he wouldn't pick up on that one word. "Well, ..er yes. Every day, the government is granting more and more power to one man, rather than limiting the power for those with influence. What if someone corrupt were to take control? The republic would cease to exist. That's why it's important to elect those whom you trust."
"Now I can see the relationship between you and Senator Organa." He smiled wickedly. "Does your husband feel the same way?"
"On some grounds" I stated simply, wanting to get off the subject.
"Oh, come now, Count. Let's not bore Amy to death with all this talk of politics. Poor Jonathan is about to doze off into his bowl of soup." Alice interjected.
"Perhaps you are right. And what topic would a fine woman like you find intriguing?"
I kept silent, as I realized that everything I found intriguing had something that could link me back to the Jedi. Alice, on the other hand, piped up rather quickly, "Oh, tell us how the war is faring! Is it true that this General Grievous has 6 arms and keeps the lightsabers of every Jedi he defeats?"
I nearly choked on my soup.
Dooku let loose a low chuckle. "4 actually... well, it could be 2, depending on who he's fighting."
"So it's true about the Jedi then?" Alice inquired.
"I bet he's slaughtered at least 10 Jedi in his lifetime" Jonathan piped in.
"Jonathan, that's a horrible thing to say" Alice bit back. "Jedi are people too!" She giggled at that last bit. And it felt like a dagger sank through me.
"Oh, come on. It's not like they had anyone waiting for them. Everyone knows that Jedi are forbidden from attachments of any kind."
Is that what they really think of us? Does everyone think like that? We feel, we love, we breathe and bleed just like everyone else. Why can they not see that? I wish people could just…
"Just because they are not supposed to, does not mean that they don't feel like we do. If you were to ever meet a Jedi, you'd find more in common with them than you think." Dooku added sincerely.
I looked up at him in surprise. Did he really just stand up for the Jedi?
"That's right, you used to be a Jedi, didn't you Count?!" Alice chided.
"Yes, but I have a feeling that I'm not the only one to have firm feelings on the Jedi" Dooku looked at me knowingly.
I'm stumped. Does he know my secret? How should I answer? I can't believe I was foolish enough to think I could pull this off. I just sat there, mouth agape.
"So what's your run in with the Jedi? I'm rather curious. Maybe you have a sibling that joined their ranks?" He kept searching through me, trying to figure me out.
I had to try hard not to sigh in relief. He doesn't know. "A Jedi saved my life once." I whispered while I stirred my spoon in my soup aimlessly.
"Oh, how heroic! Can you imagine the thrill of it?" Alice clasped her hands in excitement. "You must tell me all about them."
I cautiously looked from the Count to Alice then back to Dooku. "He was a gentle man, and kind, with eyes like the sea after a storm… I've never seen so much pain and peace in a being before." I whispered as I described him.
"Sounds like a dream" Alice smiled delightedly.
"That thins down the list quite a lot. I think I've narrowed it to two or three. Did you ever get his name?" Dooku raised an eyebrow in curiosity.
"They called him Obi Wan" I was surprised at how calmly I had just described my husband. They just wanted to know about the Jedi who saved my life. I could tell them that without worrying. I just could not tell them that I was married to the man. And I wasn't lying about him saving my life either, which helped me keep my calm.
"Ah, yes. Master Kenobi. He's probably one of the brightest Jedi of this age. I have no doubt that we can expect great things from him." He sounded genuine, but the smile on his face reeked of malevolence. What does he know? He's got to know something more about this other Sith we've been chasing.
The more we sat through dinner, the more I wanted to squeeze the information out of him. Maybe he even knows where the Vengeance was, or who he was, and whether or not he is indeed the Sith we've been searching for. Just as my brain was about explode from all of the possible scenarios, I found myself being ushered back into the main hall with the rest of the party. I took this as an opportunity to break away. I turned to Alice, and the Count. "I hate to do this, but I am a bit worried about my husband. Would it be alright if I called it a night?"
"Well of course Amy, I'm surprised you stayed this long, but I'm glad you did."
I curtsied to the two "Then I bid you good night. Thank you for a splendid evening. It's been a delight to get to know you both" I chanced a quick glance at Dooku, hoping he was distracted elsewhere. But there were his eyes staring back into me. He nodded, and she curtsied, as I turned to leave.
Just breathe. I once again found myself chanting this mantra as I started down the mansion steps.
"Amy, if you have a moment."
I froze. Just when I thought I was in the clear. Turning around, I forced a smile as I faced Dooku, now trailing down the steps to where I stood.
"I wanted to ask you something a bit personal, if you don't mind."
I held my breath. Did he figure me out after all? If it comes down to it, do I have the strength to fight Dooku on my own? Oh, why didn't I listen to Obi Wan?!
He took a brief moment, as if going over something in his mind. "I couldn't help but notice that you seem to be radiating the force around you. Did Kenobi ever say anything to you when you had your encounter with him?"
I hesitantly spoke "He simply said he was sorry"
"Just as I thought. He probably felt it too. But for the Jedi Order, they would view you as too old, or too attached to the world around you."
"What are you saying?"
"Amy, I believe you are force sensitive. And given the proper training, I think that you could become very powerful indeed."
My eye's widened in shock. Is he saying what I think he is?!
"I'd be delighted to teach you what I know." He waved his hand slightly as if he were just making a simple suggestion.
"I… I'm flattered. I've always wanted to learn more, but was too afraid to ask. …I'll have to discuss it with my husband first."
"Oh, naturally. You are just here on Holiday, after all. I'd hate to intrude."
I nodded, not sure what else to do. This could be a huge opportunity to get into his head. I was terrified, yet excited at the same time. "Thank you!" was all I could reply.
"I'll be in touch" he bowed, then quickly left.
The moment he disappeared from sight, I let out a heavy sigh. "What did I just agree to?!"
"Obi Wan, you won't believe…" I quietly closed the bedroom door behind me. "Obi Wan?" I glanced at the bed, framed with flower petals, but there was no Obi Wan to be found.
I peeked into the bathroom, and there was that steaming bath surrounded by candles, but still no Obi Wan.
A little worried, I quickly scanned the room, only to find his shadow beyond the terrace curtain. I walked over and leaned on the doorway as I watched Obi Wan gaze up into the star filled sky. I don't think there will ever come a time when I could stop loving him.
"Obi Wan…" I whispered, moseying over to the railing where he stood.
Before I had a chance to react, I quickly found myself in a firm embrace, his head buried in the crook of my neck.
It took me a moment to register everything, but then I began to lovingly rub his back as he held me close. We stood there for quite some time. I was about to pull away when I felt something cold trail down my collar bone. "Obi Wan?... Are you?... What's wrong?"
I felt him shake his head as he continued to hold me.
"Obi Wan?... Love?..." I asked, worried.
He shook his head again, so I patiently just held him until he was ready.
Before too long, we found ourselves on the ground, Obi Wan still hiding his face, but his breathing was calm.
Just when I thought he was asleep, he mumbled into my neck. "The water is probably cold now"
I let loose a light chuckle. "That's alright. We'll just refill it with warm water."
He nodded, then pulled his face up to look at me. His eyes were red from excessive crying, but he firmly kept his gaze, as if trying to memorize everything in that moment.
I wanted to know what was wrong. I wanted to make it better. But, I knew he would tell me on his own time. Eventually I found myself undressing as Obi Wan refilled the tub. I kept silent, but could not help but wonder what had gotten in to him.
When I finally crawled in the tub, I leaned up against Obi Wans firm body, savoring the way that our bodies seemed to contour perfectly to the other. He quietly placed his hands around my stomach and pulled me closer into him. He then rested his head gently on my shoulder.
I looked over, concerned with his thoughts. Sensing my concern, Obi Wan took a deep breath.
"I had everything set up perfectly. But you weren't home yet. So I took a nap. Most likely we'd be up all night."
I smiled lightly, knowing the truth of it.
He continued, trying to hold back any and all emotion. "I dreamed of you again. Of that night you died in my arms." His voice cracked. "There was so much blood."
Now I understand. I maneuvered myself so that I was straddling his thighs, and I embraced him from the front. "I'm sorry you had to relive that." I whispered.
"It's happening more than usual." He mentioned guiltily.
He's had this dream twice before that I know of. Why is it increasing? "Look at me!" I pulled away to stare at him. "I'm here now. Our love has already prevailed once. I know it will happen time and time again. We're just meant to be together. And nothing that anyone throws at us will ever keep us apart. I love you!"
It took him a moment to push back his negative emotions, but he smiled back at me. "I love you most!" He then placed a gently kiss on my lips, igniting the fire inside of me that had been kindling all day. I was about to bring up my discussion with Dooku, but I didn't want to spoil the mood. I better let it wait until morning. And with that, I deepened our kiss.
