Omg guys. It's done. It's actually done. I can't believe it and I have yet to process it. This the first fic I've ever actually finished and been happy with. It's been my quarantine project for the past 5 months and it's helped me through a lot of crappy times. Whenever I needed an escape, I'd write a chapter. I feel like I'm parting with a dear friend. But only temporarily. I have a few drabbles in this AU already written and I'll be posting them soon! Keep an eye out for the drabbles collection story on my page!
Chapter 35 is by far the longest yet. And it's a doozy. I couldn't decide what to put in and what to leave out, so I just put everything in, lol. Warning: the end scene is a tear jerker. I made myself cry a few times. Sorry not sorry! Hope you enjoy!
Mando'a translations in the end notes as well as a special message to you all :)
Chapter 35: Forever and Ever
Days off were extremely rare for a Jedi Master. Especially a Jedi Master who happens to also be a Councilor. Some days it felt like the meetings would never end and the issues needing to be resolved would never go away. But today was different. Today was an actual honest to Force day off from…everything. Obi-Wan wasn't sure how this happened or even if it was really happening, but he was going to try to embrace it as much as possible.
The only problem was that he didn't know what to do with a day off. Even in his downtime he'd be catching up on reports and writing up new policies or debate topics for Senate meetings. Now though, he had no such responsibilities. It was almost like no one even needed him today. Well, almost no one.
"Papa!" Iyla exclaimed from the kitchen. "I fink we need more muja juice! We only gots milk and some bown stuff that smells yucky."
"Don't drink the brown stuff!" he called out. "Milk is fine for now."
"Ok."
He could hear clanking bottles and soft mutterings followed by a chair scraping across the floor.
"Papa…?"
"Yes, dear?"
"I need help."
Obi-Wan smiled to himself and got up from the couch. He entered the kitchen and saw Iyla standing on a chair straining to reach the milk bottle on the top shelf of the fridge. He quickly walked over and grabbed the bottle before any kind of milk disaster could ensue. Once the milk was safely on the table he grabbed Iyla around her middle and tucked her under his arm like a sack of potatoes. Iyla giggled and screeched as his fingers "accidentally" found her side and she kicked and wiggled in his grasp. Obi-Wan chuckled and winced at her tiny feet assaulting his back then gave her one last tickle before setting her down on a chair at the table.
He set them both up with some breakfast and listened contentedly as Iyla chattered endlessly about anything and everything she could think of. His job was demanding and exhausting and sometimes he felt the weight of the Order on his shoulders, but these quiet mornings with his precious little one reminded him that there was more to his life now beyond the stress and rigor of his duties. She had the incredible ability to make him forget his troubles with a single smile, giggle, hug, or sloppy kiss. Force he was lucky. Even at her worst there was no one else he'd rather share his life with. His little love.
Of course there was another love in his heart that he longed to see as well. But he banished the depressing thought and focused on the love of his life that was here now. Satine was with the Force and she'd always be with them. That was the reality and he couldn't change it. Dwelling on the pain wasn't going to help and wallowing in his broken heart wasn't doing himself or Iyla any favors. His daughter needed him to be her anchor and her guiding light. He couldn't do that if he was dim and drifting. Satine would tell him that Iyla was the first priority. And he agreed. So he released his pain in order to hold on to the bright joy that was his daughter. She would sustain him for all of his days. His mesh'la nau'ika.
"You got lotsa meeting today, Papa?" Iyla asked as she munched on her toast.
"No, actually. I have the day off. No meetings. No work. No assignments. Nothing," Obi-Wan replied sipping his tea.
Iyla cocked her head in confusion. "Then what you gonna do all day?"
"I'm not sure, actually," he replied honestly.
"You can come to the cwush wif me. We can be togever all day and have lotsa fun. You like painting and playing wif blocks, Papa?"
Obi-Wan smiled at her. "I do, little one," he replied. Then he thought of something. "But…I think I have a better idea."
"What's your 'dea?"
"How about a Papa and Iyla day? Just the two of us all day doing whatever we want," he said.
"Really?" Iyla asked with wide and excited eyes. "Whatevew we want?"
"Whatever we want," he confirmed.
"Oh, yes, pease, Papa! I wann be wif you all day and do all the fun fings!"
Obi-Wan laughed and finished off his tea with one last sip. "Me too, dear. Now how about we get ready for the day. Starting with cleaning the jam off your hands and face you little rascal," he teased.
Iyla immediately jumped down from her seat and took off for the 'fresher. Obi-Wan shook his head fondly as he gathered up their dishes and went to get himself ready as well. They went about their morning routine quickly and with giddy anticipation. Iyla could barely hold still as Obi-Wan helped her put her shoes on and fix her bunched up leggings. She was nearly tapping her foot impatiently by the time Obi-Wan emerged from the room with his favorite cloak tucked around him.
"You ready now, Papa?" Iyla asked somewhat exasperatedly.
"I am, darling. So sorry to keep you waiting," he smirked.
"Polgee assepted," Iyla replied with a nod.
He laughed and ruffled her strawberry blonde curls. "So, where to first my little imp?"
"Can we go to the playgwound? The one Soka and I goed to when we was finding my lifeday dwess wif Atie Pamay?"
"Hmm, I'm not quite sure I know where that one is. But, I do know of a small playground not too far from where the vod'e live. Perhaps we can invite them to come. I'm sure they'd love to play with you. And it's been a while since I've had time to spend with them. What do you think?" Obi-Wan asked.
"That's the bestest 'dea evew!" Iyla exclaimed with an excited leap in place.
"Good. I'll contact Cody on the way. Are you all set?"
"Yeees, Papa," Iyla said impatiently.
"Are you sure?" Obi-Wan teased.
"Yes!"
"Did you brush your teeth and comb your hair?"
"Yes."
"Washed your hands and face?"
"Yes."
"Used the 'fresher?"
"…yes…"
Obi-Wan raised an eyebrow and gave her a look. Iyla pouted but ultimately gave in and rushed off to the 'fresher.
Two minutes later they were on their way to the hangar bay to get a speeder while Obi-Wan comm-ed the vod'e. Cody agreed enthusiastically to come to the playground and assured him that they'd be waiting for them when they got there.
Iyla gave an excited shout when she saw the clones gathered on the grass by a giant slide. Obi-Wan had to keep tight hold of her hand to prevent her from taking off without him. Each vod was greeted with a big hug and a blinding smile from the 4-year-old and an affectionate half hug and shoulder squeeze from Obi-Wan.
"We were all a bit surprised by your invitation, General," Cody said. "I didn't think the Council took days off."
"Neither did I. But apparently such a thing exists and I plan to take full advantage."
"As you should," Rex replied. "No one deserves a break more than you, sir."
Obi-Wan smiled and couldn't help but agree with him. His work was demanding and he never had time for himself.
"Papa, come watch me on the slide! It's so big! And twisty!" Iyla tugged on his hand and led him over to the slide area.
Obi-Wan found a patch of grass and sat down. He was joined by the vod'e and soon they were engaged in friendly conversation. Every now and then one of them would jump up to chase Iyla or help her up the ladder to the slide. Sweet childish giggles and deep laughter filled the air around them and Obi-Wan felt himself getting lost in the moment. The Force signatures of his men and his daughter were like warm blankets surrounding his tired soul and he closed his eyes slightly to drink it in.
Iyla was not content with his sitting around though and soon he was roped in to pushing her on a swing and running after her playfully when she tapped his arm and said "you're it!" The clones cheered them on as they ran and then joined in to form teams. Obi-Wan had admittedly not had this much fun in a very long time. Here, among his troopers and his little light, he wasn't Jedi Master and Councilor Kenobi. He was just Obi-Wan. Papa and friend. He didn't need to pretend to be anything and he didn't need to worry about reputation. It was freeing and exhilarating.
The game of tag ended when Obi-Wan caught Iyla around her middle and scooped her up. He peppered her stomach and cheeks with scratchy kisses and she squirmed and laughed delightedly. Obi-Wan carried his gasping bundle to the shade a few feet away and they took a break from all the activity. Iyla lay down on the ground and stared up at the clouds overhead. Coruscant was amazingly clear that day and the district they were in was less polluted than others. It was optimal cloud watching circumstances.
"That one looks like a banfa," Iyla said pointing up at a fluffy cloud.
"It does, doesn't it?" Obi-Wan agreed following her finger.
"That one looks like Echo's hair when he wakes up in the morning," Fives teased.
"That one looks like Fives' face when I'm through with him," Echo said.
"But it's just a flat cloud," Iyla said.
"Exactly," Echo grinned wickedly. Fives swallowed nervously and quickly moved away from Echo.
"The clouds are especially white and fluffy today," Kix pointed out.
"Yeah, they aren't usually this shapely, if we even see clouds at all," Rex agreed.
"Must be because vod'ika is here," Waxer smiled. "A special treat just for her."
Waxer turned his head to the side and smiled at Iyla then took her hand and squeezed it.
"And in celebration of the General actually getting himself a karking day off for once," Boil added.
"Boil! Language!" Fives admonished.
"S'ok. Unka A'kin says worse," Iyla replied nonchalantly.
They all laughed and nodded at this statement, each of them very familiar with Anakin Skywalker's extensive vocabulary when it comes to cursing.
"How is General Skywalker by the way?" Rex asked. "Heard he's got two little ones of his own now."
"Yeah! Luke and Leia! They twins and they look the same but we know who they are acause Luke has a stick that he uses to go potty and Leia not gots a stick. Ganpa Qwi teached me about boys and girls," Iyla answered.
There was an awkward silence at her words until a massive snort and choking sound rose up from Rex and Boil. Both men were desperately trying to hold in their laughter and tears were slipping down their faces. Obi-Wan was avoiding everyone's eyes and looked to be screaming internally. Iyla, the innocent, oblivious soul that she was, had gone back to cloud watching as her vod'e and father fought their laughter and humiliation.
"Sticks?" Kix asked with shaking shoulders.
"Please…don't ask," Obi-Wan said with a weary sigh.
That sent the other clones into hysterics and soon they were practically falling over each other in their laughter. Obi-Wan covered his face with his hands but ultimately broke down in laughter as well.
"Thanks for the laugh, vod'ika," Fives said as he ruffled the girl's hair.
Iyla shrugged at him and started picking at the grass while explaining everything about her new cousins to her brothers gathered around her.
The little one's growling stomach interrupted her excited rambling and Obi-Wan decided that lunch was in order. The vod'e decided to leave the father and daughter pair to finish their family day and saw them off to their speeder. Iyla hugged and kissed each of her brothers and thanked them for playing with her. Obi-Wan could tell that they were reluctant to let her go but he was grateful that they respected their need for quality time together. With one last wave and blown kiss, Obi-Wan and Iyla were off to start the next part of their day.
"Little Kenobi! Come in, come in!" Dex greeted happily as he saw the small curly-haired girl walk in pulling her father's hand behind her.
"Hi, Misser Dex!" Iyla greeted enthusiastically. "Papa and I was playing then we gots hungwy so we comed here."
"Playing?" Dex asked and looked at Obi-Wan with a smirk.
"A very rare day off today," Obi-Wan explained.
"Well, that's certainly a surprise. And a special occasion. Come my Jedi friends, let's find you a table," Dex said as he led them to a booth in the corner.
The Besalisk got them set up with drinks and menus then left them to decide as he checked on the status of some of the orders in the kitchen.
"Know what you want, darling?" Obi-Wan asked.
"Nerdburdger!" Iyla answered happily.
Obi-Wan laughed and decided on some nerfsteak stew for himself.
Once their orders were placed and Iyla was occupied with her crayons and paper, Obi-Wan and Dex were free to talk and catch up. Obi-Wan told Dex all about Anakin and Padme and the twins, thankfully without mention of 'sticks' and 'potties' since the 4-year-old was much more interested in her coloring than in the adult conversation. Iyla was humming joyfully as she drew and taking sips of her drink from the twisty straw Dex had inserted in her cup.
The arrival of the food paused their conversation for a few moments as Obi-Wan cut up Iyla's burger and squeezed some of the specialty red diner sauce on her plate. Iyla put a napkin in her collar and sat up tall before tucking into her meal hungrily. Obi-Wan joined after and soon father and daughter were consuming their lunch at an alarmingly quick rate.
"Worked up an appetite with all the playing, huh, my friends?" Dex teased.
"Yep! We went to the playgwound and runned around a lot and I went on the slide and the swings and Papa played tag wif me. And the vod'e was there too. They my brudders. Acause vod'e means brudder in Manlowan and I'm the vodeekuh. That means little sisser. And we sawed lotsa clouds too and they was shaped like silly fings. It was so much fun!" Iyla chatted, her sauce covered face lit up in a grin.
"Sounds like an exciting day already, little one," Dex replied.
Iyla nodded and went back to her food. Obi-Wan finished his stew and reached over to clean Iyla's face with a napkin since she had abandoned the last few pieces of her burger to continue coloring.
"I do it, Papa," Iyla said, moving out of the way of his hand.
Obi-Wan gave her a skeptical look and watched as she used her napkin from her lap to smear the sauce on her lips and cheek, clearly struggling to get all of it off. Dex chuckled at her annoyed expression. Obi-Wan gave her a few more tries to get the rest of it before he used one quick swipe of his own napkin and it was gone.
"Fank you, Papa," Iyla said.
She returned to her drawing with enthusiasm and seemed to be concentrating deeply. Obi-Wan and Dex started to talk once again, both of them relaxed and calm in each other's presence. After a few minutes a soft "ah ha!" cut them off.
"I'm done wif my pishure, Papa!" Iyla said excitedly. She picked up the paper and held it up for them to see. "I drawed me and Misser Dex."
Dex's eyes lit up when he saw the drawing and he leaned in closer to see it. A small curly-haired figure stood next to a tall gray figure with four arms and a large belly. Flowers and trees surrounded the two who had wide drawn on smiles on their faces. A shaky Dex and Iyla were written over their figures.
"This is quite the drawing, little Kenobi," Dex said with a smile. "You are very talented."
"Fank you, Misser Dex. I drawed your fouw arms and I maked some fowers and twees acause I like fowers and twees. And I gived us a smile acause we are fwiends and we are happy."
"We are friends, Iyla, you're right about that," Dex said.
"You can have it, Misser Dex. I drawed it for you," Iyla said handing him the picture.
Dex looked as if he'd just been given a thousand credits and he took the picture carefully in his hands.
"Do you like it?" she asked shyly.
"I love it," Dex replied. "I know just where to put it too. A very special place."
"Like on the wall?" Iyla asked.
"Most definitely. Thank you, little Iyla, for this wonderful gift. I dare say it's one of the nicest I've ever received."
"You welcome," she smiled brightly.
"Well, since you gave me a gift, I feel like it's only fair for me to give you a gift as well," the Besalisk said.
"A gift?" Iyla asked intrigued.
"Yes. Have you ever had a milkshake, kiddo?"
"I drinked milk afore. Yes."
"Not just milk. A milkshake. It has ice cream in it."
"What's ice cweam?"
Dex looked at her wide-eyed and turned to Obi-Wan. "What's ice cream? Are the Jedi depriving their younglings of sweets?"
"There are plenty of sweets in the temple, but ice cream is not one of them," Obi-Wan replied with a grin. "That's strictly an outside of the temple treat."
"I will never understand your kind, Obi-Wan. Complete bantha heads, the lot of you," Dex said shaking his head causing his big wattle to sway from side to side. "Good thing I'm here to rectify your shortcomings my friend. It is my duty to educate this young Jedi on the wonder that is ice cream. What do you say, little one? Want to try a shake?"
Iyla turned eager akk-pup eyes to her Papa. Obi-Wan sighed dramatically. "You spoil her, Dex," he smirked.
"Just repaying a kindness with one of my own. And educating a young mind as well," Dex defended.
"Yes, alright. You can have a shake. But a small one," Obi-Wan warned.
"Small milkshake coming right up," Dex smiled, then quickly hurried to the kitchen before Obi-Wan could change his mind.
The milkshake was small by Dex's standards but also quite big for a 4-year-old. Iyla's face lit up with her first sip and she enthusiastically tucked into the rest. She couldn't finish the whole thing though, thankfully. Obi-Wan didn't want to deal with a sick child later that night. He finished the rest for her instead. He did love a good milkshake and it had been so long since he allowed himself to indulge in the Dex's Diner specialty. He looked up from the empty cup to see Iyla's head bobbing and her eyes slowly closing. He smiled fondly at his sleepy little girl and waved Dex over to pay the bill. Dex couldn't help smiling at the sweet sight either and patted the curly head after it came to rest on the table.
"You've got quite the girl here, Obi-Wan. Heart of gold and charm for days. You're very lucky," Dex said.
"Blessed, my friend. And undeservedly so. But blessed all the same," Obi-Wan replied.
"Aye, blessed," Dex agreed with a fond smile.
Obi-Wan gathered up the dozing 4-year-old and sighed to himself when he saw her sticky cheeks and cream smeared lips. It seemed that another face washing was in order once they got back to the temple. Dex waved to Obi-Wan and said his goodbyes then picked up the drawing and carried it with him to the back of the diner. No doubt going to hang it in his small office behind the kitchen.
Obi-Wan carried the limp sugar coma-ed child to the temple issued speeder and buckled her in next to him. Iyla immediately slumped down and her head came to rest on his lap. He leaned down to press a kiss to her forehead before starting the speeder and taking off back home.
Obi-Wan didn't mean to fall asleep. He had simply laid down with Iyla on the bed to make sure she was settled enough to take her nap and the next thing he knew he was being woken up by a soft hand rubbing his beard and cheek. He opened his eyes to see a bright smile and sparkling blue orbs looking back at him. He smiled sleepily and brought his own hand up to caress the little cheek across from him.
"You still seepy, Papa?" the little one asked softly.
"No, dear one, I'm awake now. Did you have a nice nap?" he asked.
"Yes, Papa. I seeped good."
"Glad to hear it. Ready to get out of bed and continue our Papa and Iyla day?" he asked.
Iyla nodded enthusiastically and quickly scrambled off the bed, pulling on her boots as she practically ran for the door.
"Whoa, whoa, hold on a minute, little one," Obi-Wan chuckled. "Let's freshen up a bit so we don't look like a pair of slobs. Come, follow me to the 'fresher."
Iyla, one boot on only, limped after him slowly. Obi-Wan reached down and tugged off the boot so she could walk normally.
After hair was brushed, tunics were straightened, and bleary eyes were finally alert, the father and daughter were ready to continue their day.
"What would you like to do now, darling?" Obi-Wan asked as they sat on the couch.
"I wanna go swimming, Papa," Iyla answered. "Can you teach me to swim in the Fowsan Fownans?"
Obi-Wan thought over her request. It was the prefect day for a swim since he had nothing else to occupy his time. And he had promised her that he'd teach her. She'd be much safer for it and he wouldn't have to worry about her being too close to any ponds or other large bodies of water. She could join her friends in the pond as well. Plus, he'd taught Anakin to swim. He could definitely teach his daughter as well.
"Sure, love. I'll teach you to swim," he replied.
"Really?"
"Yes, really."
Iyla jumped up from the couch with an excited shout. "Can we go now, Papa?"
"We'll need to go get a set of swim clothes from the crèche, but yes, we can go now," he replied.
"Ok, let's go," Iyla said with a tug to his hand.
The Room of a Thousand Fountains wasn't too full. Mostly Councilors honestly. It seemed that many of them had the same idea of relaxing and enjoying their time off by the pond and in the garden. A few of them waved to them as they passed by and Iyla gave an enthusiastic wave back with a bounce in her step. Obi-Wan set them up on the grass by the pond and shed his cloak and outer tunic. He helped Iyla with her boots then took off his as well and led her over to the edge of the pond. He instructed her to sit and put her feet in then joined her. As he was getting Iyla acquainted with the water he heard someone behind him.
"Master! What are you doing here? Shouldn't you be working yourself to death?" Anakin teased.
"Unka A'kin!" Iyla greeted happily.
"Hey, kiddo. Did you steal your Papa for the day?" Anakin asked.
"Papa gots a day off so we having a Papa and Iyla day," she explained.
"A day off? Have we entered a parallel universe?"
"It certainly felt like it when I was told about it. Didn't know quite what to do with myself for a bit. Then I decided to take advantage. It's actually been a great day so far," Obi-Wan answered.
Anakin came to sit on the grass by them and lounged back on his elbows.
"We goed to the playgwound and me and Papa played wif the vod'e then we goed to see Misser Dex and he gived me ice cweam milk and it was so yummy!"
"A milkshake, love," Obi-Wan corrected fondly.
"Yeah, a milkshake. Then I falled aseep and so did Papa and now we here! Papa said he's gonna teach me to swim. Right, Papa?"
"That's right, darling."
Anakin smiled at her excitement. "Well, your Papa is a great teacher. He taught me to swim too. You'll be splashing around on your own in no time, little one."
"Papa teached you?"
"Yep. Taught me everything I know," Anakin said. He playfully bumped Obi-Wan's leg with his foot and gave him a look that conveyed his gratefulness to his Master for everything he learned from him, not just how to swim.
"Aww, they're having a moment," Ahsoka said walking up to them.
"Thanks for the mood killer, Snips," Anakin said with an eyeroll.
"You're welcome," Ahsoka sassed and plopped down next to him.
"Hi, Soka! Papa gonna teach me to swim!" Iyla said.
"That's great, kiddo," Ahsoka replied. She turned to Anakin. "Padme's nearly done with the twins' check up. I told her to meet me here."
"Sounds like it will be a family day at the garden," Obi-Wan said. "Perfect," he smiled.
Iyla squirmed restlessly next to him, clearly ready to get in the water all the way and get on with the swimming lesson. Obi-Wan lowered himself into the water that came up to his chest and waded his way over to stand in front of Iyla.
"Ready to start the lesson, my dear?" he asked.
"Yes, Papa," Iyla answered although she looked a bit apprehensive.
Obi-Wan instructed her to hold on to his shoulders and lowered her into his arms so she was now in the water up to her chest as well. He waded around with her in his arms for a bit to get her used to the water then began to teach her to float. Anakin and Ahsoka watched the pair swim around and laughed as Iyla splashed Obi-Wan in the face with her erratic feet paddling. After a few minutes, they were joined by Padme and the twins. Anakin stood to take Leia from Padme's arms and tickled the baby's tummy .
"Obi-Wan looks happy," Padme observed as she sat down next to Anakin and laid Luke down on Obi-Wan's discarded cloak.
"He actually has a day off. Force knows he needs it. Apparently it's Papa and Iyla day. They're having a swimming lesson now," Anakin said.
"Aww, a father-daughter day," Padme cooed. "I'm sure you and Leia will be having many of those in the future," she said rubbing his arm and laying her head on his shoulder.
Anakin looked down at the bright eyed baby in his arms and smiled widely at the thought of her growing older and forming a bond with her like the one Obi-Wan and Iyla have. As well as teaching Luke everything Obi-Wan taught him. He was looking forward to it immensely.
Loud splashing and giggling drew their attention to the pond where Kit Fisto was now swimming around Iyla and Obi-Wan, emerging every now and then to jump up and splash them. Both Kenobis were soaked and grinning from ear to ear. Iyla looked up from her position on Obi-Wan's shoulders and waved excitedly to Padme.
"Atie Pamay!" the soggy 4-year-old yelled.
Padme waved back and called out a greeting as well. Obi-Wan waded back to the grass with Iyla in his arms and set her down before climbing out of the water himself. Once Iyla was on dry ground she ran over to Padme, Ahsoka, and Anakin and immediately greeted her cousins with a wet kiss to their cheeks. Luke screwed up his face and Iyla laughed.
"Hi, Luke and Leia! How are you? You have a good time wif the healers? You get some nacanashins? I hope not! I gots them afore and they huwted lots."
"No vaccinations yet. Just a check up to see if they're healthy. Which they are," Padme said affectionately ticking their little tummies. "Are you having a good day, sweetheart? It looked like you and your Papa were enjoying the pond."
"It was lotsa fun! Papa teached me to swim acause he gots a day off and it's a Papa and Iyla day!" she exclaimed. Her strawberry blonde curls were plastered to her face and she was flicking water on them all as she gestured widely.
Obi-Wan chuckled and settled down on the grass then pulled Iyla on to his lap. The little girl started to shiver from the breeze in the garden and her wet clothes. Padme picked Luke up and handed Obi-Wan his cloak which he wrapped around them both. The adults watched fondly as Iyla struck up a one-sided conversation with her cousins, telling them all about her day and how great of a swimmer she is now. She'd only had one lesson and had yet to master holding her breath underwater but she was practically a professional already in her opinion.
Dinner started calling their names after a while but none of them wanted to leave the garden or each other so they decided a picnic was in order. Obi-Wan, Ahsoka, and Anakin volunteered to get the food while Padme agreed to stay back with the little ones. Iyla was appointed as Padme's baby watching assistant, a job she took very seriously as she sat and stared at them intently.
"I didn't mean to actually watch them, dear. It's just an expression. You're helping me take care of them and keep them safe," Padme chuckled.
"Oh, ok. I be the best baby watcher evew, Atie Pamay," Iyla promised.
"You already are, little one," Padme answered with a fond smile.
Iyla sat in front of Padme facing Luke and Leia and started making funny faces and holding out her little finger for them to latch on to. Padme could see the love and adoration in her eyes already and knew these three would grow to have an incredible bond.
Anakin, Ahsoka, and Obi-Wan came back with the food from the dining hall and the small family ate together and talked amicably, simply enjoying their time with each other. The Force was warm and bright and seemed to hum happily around the group as they lounged and relaxed in the garden.
Leia's loud cry triggered Luke's and soon both twins were wailing in unison. Iyla covered her ears and looked at them anxiously.
"Sounds like these two are jealous that we get to eat and they don't," Padme laughed.
"Pretty sure Luke here needs a change too," Anakin said with a wrinkled nose.
"Eww, diwty diaper," Iyla said.
"All babies wear diapers, love. You did too at one point," Obi-Wan reminded her.
"Yucky! Good fing I go potty like a big girl now," she replied.
"I'm grateful for that as well," Obi-Wan agreed with a smirk.
Padme stood up with Luke in her arms and started gathering up her bag. "I'm going to find a place to change him then we should go, darling," she said, addressing Anakin. "They'll need to be fed soon."
"Of course, sweetheart," Anakin replied.
Ahsoka stood to leave as well with Anakin and Padme. They had all recently moved into the temple quarters because they needed more room to house the twins and Ahsoka while she finished her padawanship.
"We should go too. I think a bath and shower is very much needed. Pond water isn't the cleanest," Obi-Wan said. He put on his cloak then picked up a shivering Iyla and tucked it around her in his arms.
"Bye-bye Soka, and Unka A'kin, and Atie Pamay and Luke and Leia! I wuv you!" Iyla said, waving at them and blowing kisses.
"Love you too, sweetheart," Anakin replied with a wave and a smile. The Kenobis and Skywalker/Tano families parted ways promising to get together again soon.
Back in their quarters, Obi-Wan helped Iyla with a bath then got her set up on the couch with a puzzle and some toys while he went to take a shower. She hadn't been playing that long when Obi-Wan's comm went off. She looked around and heard that her Papa was still in the shower and not able to answer. Should she answer it instead? Who was calling? Maybe she should see who it is.
She picked up the comm and pushed the blinking button. "Kemmobi," she said, having heard Obi-Wan answer his comm many times in this way.
"Iyla?" Korkie asked. "Where's Uncle Obi-Wan?"
"Hi, Kowkie! Papa's taking a shower. We goed swimming in the pond and gots diwty," Iyla answered.
"So your Papa doesn't know you're on the comm?"
"No. It just ringed and I answered it."
"Are you allowed to be on the comm without him?" Korkie asked cautiously.
"I dunno. I go ask," Iyla said. She left the comm on the table and walked over to the 'fresher door. "Papa?" she called. She got no response so she pushed the button to open the 'fresher door and peeked her head inside. "Papa, Kowkie's on the comm. Can I talk wif him?"
Obi-Wan was startled at being disturbed and thankfully got the towel wrapped around himself quickly. "Uh, hello, dear. What was that?"
"Kowkie's on the comm and he asked if I'm 'sposed to be on the comm wifout you. Can I talk wif him, Papa?"
"Did you answer my comm, darling?" Obi-Wan asked.
"Uh-huh. The light was goin' all blinky and I pushed the button and said 'Kemmobi' just like you do and it was Kowkie."
"I'd prefer you not to answer my comm next time, love, but yes, you may talk to Korkie," he replied.
"Ok. Fanks, Papa!" Iyal called then ran from the 'fresher doorway.
A few minutes later Obi-Wan emerged and set about making some tea for himself as he listened to Iyla babble on and on to her cousin about their day off and how great of a swimmer she was now. He smiled to himself at her confidence in her swimming skills after only one lesson in floating, kicking, and arm movements.
"That's very exciting ad'ika," Korkie replied. "Oh, hey, Auntie Bo just got home and wants to say hi."
There was a rustling of fabric and the sound of a scraping chair before a new voice came over the comm. "Hey, kiddo. How's it going?" Bo asked.
"I'm good! We had a Papa and Iyla day and did lotsa fun fings! We goed to the playgwound and I eated a milkshake and it was supew yummy. Then Papa and I goed swimming!"
"Sounds like a fun day," Bo replied.
"Uh-huh! Lotsa fun! You and Kowkie have a fun day too?"
Bo and Korkie took turns telling Iyla about their days and Obi-Wan came to sit next to her on the couch with his cup of tea. He greeted both of them and listened as they gave him updates on Mandalore and the status of the palace.
"They're projecting everything to be set sometime next year. Once we move in we'll have to have you over again. Auntie Satine loved the palace and I'm sure you will too, ad'ika," Korkie said.
"We'd love to come back, Korkie. Keep us updated on the progress and we'll be sure to visit once everything is ready."
"Sounds great, Uncle Obi-Wan. It will be nice to share the palace with family."
The word family triggered a thought in Iyla's mind and she suddenly remembered a very important detail she had yet to share with her aunt and cousin. "Oh, oh, Kowie and Atie Bo! Guess what?"
"What, kiddo?" Bo asked with a chuckle.
"I gots new cousins! Two babies comed out of Atie Pamay's tummy even though I not know how they gots out but they vewy cute and so small! Luke is a boy and he gots a stick and Leia is a girl but she not gots a stick and they not talk yet but they like me, I know. And I wuv them lots too!"
"Wow, that is big news, ad'ika," Korkie replied. "I'm sure you're a great big cousin already. Those little ones are lucky to have you."
"Fanks, Kowkie," Iyla said shyly.
"Wait, did you say Luke has a stick?" Bo asked amused.
"Yep. Acause boys got sticks they use to go potty. I learned about that from Ganpa Qwi. Kowkie, you a boy. You gots a stick like Papa and Luke?"
An awkward throat clearing and choked laugh were heard over the comm as Obi-Wan put a hand over his red face. "I'm so sorry, Korkie. You don't need to answer that. Apparently we haven't yet mastered the brain to mouth filter completely."
"I-it's ok, Uncle Obi-Wan," Korkie stuttered out, clearly caught by surprise and not quite sure what to say.
"You should see the look on his face right now!" Bo squealed. "I've seen tomatoes less red," she cackled.
"Ahem, yes, well, it was an…interesting question," Korkie said. "And, um, to answer your question, ad'ika, I do have a, uh, stick."
"Oh, ok. That's what I fought. Do you go potty in a-"
"You know what? I think it's time for night clothes and a story. Bed time is soon and we should start winding down," Obi-Wan interrupted.
"Aww, but Papa. I wanna keep talking wif Kowkie and Atie Bo," Iyla whined.
"We will call back again soon, kiddo. Don't worry," Bo reassured her. "Go get ready for bed."
"Ok. Night night, ba'vodu Bo! Night night Kowkie. Wuv you!"
"Goodnight, little one, love you too," Korkie and Bo replied.
"Goodnight, Uncle Obi-Wan," Korkie said.
"Goodnight, Korkie, Bo," he answered.
The two Kryzes said goodbye to him as well and then switched off the comm. Obi-Wan followed Iyla to their room to help her put on her night clothes then had her pick out a book for him to read to her. After a quick trip to the 'fresher, father and daughter settled on the couch for story time, a nightly routine to wind Iyla down and get her ready for sleep. Iyla snuggled up next to him, holding on to his tunic with one hand and settling his arm around her shoulders as she leaned on his chest. Obi-Wan pressed a kiss to her head then began to read.
Qui-Gon Jinn's translucent form appeared in the corner of the living room and took in the sweet sight before him. His former padawan was holding a children's book and reading softly while cradling his 4-year-old in his lap. He put on silly voices and occasionally leaned down to whisper in her ear as he read. The little girl was fading quickly but seemed determined to stay awake for the whole story. Her curly head was pillowed on his chest and her thumb had found a way to sneak into her mouth in her drowsiness. She giggled slowly and softly every time her Papa whispered in her ear but her eyes were losing their battle as she was quickly descending into sleep.
Qui-Gon knew it was time, for if he waited any longer the littlest of them would be too tired to appreciate what he was going to do. He floated out of the shadows and called to him softly.
"Obi-Wan?"
Obi-Wan immediately stopped his reading and looked up from the book. "Master?" he asked.
"I am sorry to disturb you, my Padawan." Qui-Gon apologized.
"Not at all, Master. We were simply preparing for bed. To what do we owe the pleasure of your visit this time?" Obi-Wan asked as he set the book aside.
"Ga'pa Qwi?" Iyla asked sleepily as she blinked at him and raised her head from her Papa's chest.
"Yes, dear one. I am sorry to wake you, but I have something for you. Both of you," he said.
"Like a pwesent?" Iyla asked sitting up now in curiosity.
"Yes, in a way."
"What is it, Master?" Obi-Wan asked, now just as curious as Iyla.
"I'm afraid I can't give it to you here. You'll need to come with me to the gardens," Qui-Gon replied.
Obi-Wan's brows furrowed in confusion and a slight frown came over his face. "The gardens?"
"Yes. It's better experienced in that atmosphere," Qui-Gon answered.
"Alright…" Obi-wan replied skeptically.
"I will explain more when we get there, I promise. Will you come?"
"Yes, we'll come. Give us a few minutes to grab our coats and put on boots," Obi-Wan replied.
"Of course. I will meet you there. The Room of a Thousand Fountains."
Obi-Wan nodded then picked up Iyla from his lap and ushered her to their bedroom.
"We gonna go get a pwesent from Ganpa Qwi in the Fowsan Fownans, Papa?" Iyla asked him as he buckled her boots.
"It appears so, darling. It is rather strange, but, well, your Grandpa Qui has never been exactly normal. Most of the time it's best just to humor him."
"Ok, Papa," Iyla agreed even though she had no idea what he was talking about.
Obi-Wan smiled and could see that she was still a bit drowsy. He ran a hand over her curls and pressed a kiss to her forehead then helped her up and led her to the door. About halfway to the garden Obi-Wan picked Iyla up since she had started swaying and leaning heavily against his side. It was getting pretty late for the little one and she was meant to be in bed. He hoped that this 'gift' from his Master was something that was worth possibly dealing with a cranky child come morning time.
They came around the corner and entered the garden, following the Force and his Master's presence to a grassy area under a group of trees. He saw Qui-Gon waiting for them with a serene smile, the Force Ghost's signature brighter and warmer than it had been before. Obi-Wan thought he saw something else near his Master and he craned his head to see but it disappeared before he could find out what it was. He knew something was there though as he sensed another presence nearby.
"Alright, Master. We've done as you said and we're here now. Can you please explain what is going on?" Obi-Wan asked intrigued and reaching out for the unknown presence.
"The Force has been plaguing me, my Padawan. For weeks now I've been unsettled and confused as to what exactly it wanted from me. No matter how hard I tried, I never received an answer. Until last night. The Force spoke to me clearly and plainly. More clearly than I've ever felt before," Qui-Gon explained.
"What did the Force say?" Obi-Wan asked curiously.
"The Force asked me to help it grant you a gift. It was adamant in its request and I found myself agreeing before I even knew the nature of the gift."
"Wh-why would the Force want to grant me a gift?"
"Do you think yourself so undeserving, Obi-Wan?" Qui-Gon asked with a touch of sadness in his voice.
"No, not undeserving. Well, perhaps in a way, but…I just don't understand. What kind of gift would the Force need to give me?" Obi-Wan asked.
"That is what you are here to find out, young one," Qui-Gon smirked.
Obi-Wan raised an eyebrow and gave his Master an exasperated look. "Well, are you going to tell me what it is, or are you going to continue to play mind games, Qui-Gon? It is late and I don't have time for friendly banter especially when you're asking me to risk dealing with a cranky and overtired 4-year-old in the morning," he said.
Soft chuckles sounded from somewhere behind a tree. The presence he'd been sensing the last few minutes was getting closer. He gripped Iyla tighter in apprehension although he felt no ill-will or danger from the Force, only affection and pleasure. He was about to call out to the presence and ask it to reveal itself already when he felt his heart stop and his throat close.
"Mama…?" Iyla asked.
The shimmering form of Satine Kryze stood before them looking just as she did in the photo Korkie had given them. Only her elaborate headdress was absent and in its place a crown of lily flowers sat delicately on top of wavy blonde hair.
All semblance of time seemed to stop for Obi-Wan as he caught sight of her. It felt as if he was sinking and floating at the same time, his body not sure whether to fall to its knees or run straight for the form in front of him. Thankfully Iyla's hold on him kept him upright and her soft question triggered the synapses in his brain back into function.
"S-Satine?" he asked. "Wh…how…b-but…" his brain might be functioning but he was struggling to form coherent thoughts.
"You know, I don't think I've ever seen you speechless before, Obi-Wan Kenobi. This is a rare sight," she teased.
"Satine….?" Obi-Wan asked again blinking his eyes quickly as if to convince himself that she wasn't simply a figment of his imagination.
"Hello, my love," Satine smiled at him.
Oh, how he'd missed that smile. Even though he saw it everyday on his little light, he still missed the sight of it on the face of his true love. The way it accentuated the laugh lines around her sparkling light blue eyes and drew attention to the plumpness of her lips. Those lips. He missed them too. He could get lost in those lips. Had a few times actually. The way they'd whisper softly in his ear, the way they felt on his own when…he gave himself a mental shake and refocused on the present. He was getting distracted. He also realized he'd been staring stupidly at her for a good 30 seconds and blushed deeply under the smirk of his Master and cheeky look on Satine's face.
"How…I…I don't understand. How is this possible?" he asked.
"This is your gift, Padawan. The Force granted it and I agreed to help," Qui-Gon answered.
"But, Papa…Ganpa Qwi said we not see Mama in the Fowce," Iyla said.
"I know, darling. I wish I had an easy answer for you," Obi-Wan replied.
"Is it really Mama?" she asked.
"I am really here, my sweet child," Satine answered. "Brought to you by the Force itself, with help from a certain 'Grandpa Qui' was it?"
Iyla nodded as she stared at her with a mixture of apprehension and delighted excitement.
Obi-Wan turned to Qui-Gon still seeking answers for this unexplainable phenomenon. "But, Master, how? Satine is not Force-sensitive and cannot become a Force Ghost. It just doesn't make sense."
"I do not pretend to understand the working of the Force, my Padawan," Qui-Gon replied.
Obi-Wan raised an eyebrow.
"Ok, I no longer pretend to know the workings of the Force. But I will always follow it and trust it. No matter what. Surely you've learned that by now," the Force Ghost smirked.
"Yes, Master, but-"
"Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon interrupted with a raised hand and a long-suffering sigh. "The Force has granted you a precious gift. The chance to be a true family, if only for the night. Do you really wish to waste your time on technicalities and logic?"
Obi-Wan fell silent at his words. Did it really matter how Satine was here and why? Or did it matter that she was here and they had the chance to see her? He smiled sheepishly at his Master, who he knew was inwardly shaking his head at his stubborn and clueless former padawan. Without needing any more prompting from the meddling ghost, Obi-Wan closed the gap between himself and Satine and followed silently as she led them to the base of a large tree.
Satine sat down and invited Obi-Wan to sit next to her. Iyla, still in Obi-Wan's arms, was leaking nervousness and uncertainty into the Force. Satine smiled gently and reassuringly at the little girl.
"Hello, darling," she greeted.
Iyla hesitated and stared at her a moment longer before she replied. "Hello, Mama," she said timidly.
"Are you happy to meet your Mama, dear one?" Obi-Wan asked.
"I already meeted Mama, Papa. On Manlowe. You renember that, Mama? You was in the Fowce and I talked wif you."
"I do remember, my little Iyla. We had a great conversation that day, didn't we?" Satine replied.
"Yeah and then you gived me a firebug. I liked it lots."
"I'm glad to hear it. And I'm glad to get to see you, my love. You're such a beautiful little girl."
Iyla smiled widely then ducked her head against Obi-Wan's shoulder shyly. "Fank you, Mama. You bootiful too."
"Thank you, little one."
"And I'm a lucky man to have been blessed with two beautiful girls," Obi-Wan said. His words were met with identical smiles and he felt his heart soar at the sight.
"You gonna stay for a long time, Mama?" Iyla asked. She had unfolded herself from around Obi-Wan and sat up straighter facing Satine.
Satine smiled sadly and reached out a transparent hand to brush her curls from her face. Iyla giggled at the tickling sensation. "I'm afraid not, my little love. It is only temporary."
"What's tepamary mean?"
"It means only for a little while. The Force has granted this gift for us all, but it cannot last. Through the night only, then tomorrow I must return the the Force," Satine explained.
"Oh," Iyla said looking down to hide her disappointment.
"But," Satine continued, lowering her head to meet the girl's eyes. "I will never truly leave you, Iyla. Not as long as you have the Force inside you. Do you understand?"
Iyla picked up her head and turned her teary eyes to Satine. "Yes, Mama. Papa said you love us and be wif us fowever and evew."
"Forever and ever," Satine repeated. She looked to Obi-Wan. "Darasuum, ner cyar'ika," she said.
"What's that mean?" Iyla asked.
"It means, 'forever, my darling,' in Mandalorian, or 'forever, my love,'" Satine replied.
"Acause you wuv Papa and Papa wuvs you," Iyla replied.
"Yes, ad'ika."
"I know what ad'ika means! It means little one in Manlowan. I know Manlowan! The vod'e and Kowkie and Atie Bo teached me!"
"They did? Well, I'm very happy to hear that. I'm glad that you have so many people who love you and can teach you about your culture. I want you to be proud to be a Mandalorian, sweetheart."
"I am pwoud, Mama. I wuv Manlowe! And I can say lotsa words too! Like you are buir and Atie Bo is ba'vodu and we all aliit wif Kowkie and Papa."
"Most impressive. You are very smart, little one."
"Papa says I'm telgent."
"That you are, love," Obi-Wan smiled.
"I'm very proud of you, my smart, sweet, beautiful little darling," Satine said.
Iyla was now on the grass between Obi-Wan and Satine and was sitting as close as she could get to her Mama. The lack of a corporeal body prevented Iyla from really leaning on or touching Satine, but she was close enough to feel the breeze created by her transparent hand running though her hair and the Force surrounding her presence.
"You pwoud of me, Mama?" Iyla asked tilting her head more towards Satine's touch.
"Everyday, my dear," Satine answered.
"Mmmm," Iyla replied with her eyes closed.
Satine wasn't ready to let her drift off though and she stroked her cheek to rouse her. "Iyla…my little Iyla Satine…" she called. "Wake up for Mama."
"Iyla Satine?" Obi-Wan asked curiously.
"Yes, her middle name. It is traditional in my family to give the mother's name to the daughter as their second name."
"There was no mention of a middle name on the birth records," Obi-Wan said.
Satine gave a wry smile. "I hadn't yet decided if I wanted to go the traditional route when the records were written. I had planned to update them when…well, I never got around to it."
Obi-Wan swallowed around the tightness in his throat. "I will be sure to update the records, my love. Our daughter should have the name her mother intended for her," he said softly.
Iyla sat up at her mother's touch and blinked at her. "Yes, Mama?"
"I would like to get to know you more, darling. Why don't you tell me about your time in the temple? It has been a while since we talked on Mandalore," Satine said.
"Ok, Mama," Iyla replied.
Obi-Wan watched as Iyla chattered on endlessly about her friends, the crèche, the gardens, and everything she was learning about the Force and meditation. She talked about being 'Councilor Kenobi' and the trouble she and her Papa had gotten into with Master Yoda, Healer Che, and Master Alann. Satine laughed and simply rolled her eyes, not in the least bit surprised at Obi-Wan's antics or that his troublemaking ways were passed on to their daughter. She shot him an unimpressed look and he returned it with a cheeky smile.
"Then today we had a Papa and Iyla day acause Papa had a day off so we did lotsa fun fings! Papa and the vod'e played wif me on the playgwound and I eated a milkshake from Misser Dex and Papa taked me swimming. Then Kowkie called on the comm and Atie Bo and I talked wif them lots. It was a gweat day!"
Satine chuckled at her enthusiasm. "It sounds like a wonderful day, dear. I'm glad you had that time with your Papa and your family," she said.
Although Obi-Wan felt genuine happiness in the Force around her, he also recognized the hint of sadness in her eyes. Sadness that she wouldn't be there to be involved in future family times. His eyes burned at the sense of loss that was just barely making it past her walls and on to her face. If Satine was a Jedi, her mental shields would be impeccable. Even now, to anyone else, she would seem the happy and content mother listening to her daughter talk excitedly about her day. But Obi-Wan wasn't just anyone else. Satine was hurting despite the fact that she was ecstatic to be with them. A bittersweet reunion.
Aay'han Obi-Wan thought.
Aay'han Satine's presence whispered back.
They shared a burdened smile and turned back to Iyla who had moved on to talking about her new cousins. Obi-Wan thought his heart was going to take flight when he heard Satine's sweet laughter at the mention of 'sticks' and the news that and Qui-Gon of all people had been the one to explain male and female anatomy to her daughter while Obi-Wan had to answer all of her awkward questions. He didn't even care that she was laughing at his expense and humiliation. He'd embarrass himself all over again if it meant he'd get to keep hearing her laugh. Iyla finished up her chat by talking about her picture she'd drawn in the crèche.
"I maked you all by myself, Mama. I not have help from Shona or Flynn or Nawi. I wanted it to be perfik! I putted the fowers in your hair and gived you a pwetty smile and maked your dwess, like the one you gots now. And I putted you in the sky wif Ganpa Qwi acause you in the Fowce like he is. I also maked you shiny and lellow, acause…"
"Because why, my love?" Satine asked.
"Are…are you a angel, Mama?"
"Why do you ask that, dear?"
"Acause angels are lellow and shiny and they take care of us and watch over us and keep us safe and they always there even when we not see them. And that's like you, Mama. So…are you a angel?"
Satine looked adoringly at her little girl and brought a hand to stroke her cheek. "Well, I do seem to meet the requirements. I'm even a bit shiny and yellow too, aren't I?"
"Uh-huh, just like my pishure."
"Yes, little one. I think you're right. I am an angel," Satine said with a smile.
Iyla's eyes went wide and she stared up at Satine in awe. "I knew it," she breathed.
Obi-Wan and Satine exchanged amused and fond looks over Iyla's head. The 4-year-old was now leaning against the tree trunk curled up on her side as she looked up at Satine in adoration. Her head was nearly touching her Mama's translucent shoulder and she had a content smile on her face as she reveled in the breezy feeling of Satine's feather light touch to her back and hair.
Obi-Wan watched his two loves and felt his heart grow even as it ached. Satine was whispering in Iyla's ear softly enough for only them to hear and Iyla was grinning and giggling. He wondered what they were talking about but it really wasn't his business. Iyla deserved to have some private time with her Mama if only for a few minutes. He saw the little girl's eyes slowly start to close, the excitement of the day and the late hour catching up to her. As always Iyla was fighting sleep like a champ, eyes snapping open immediately after they closed and focusing on Satine's face almost desperately.
"Sleep, my dear," Satine said quietly.
Iyla shook her head weakly and opened her eyes wider to appear more alert. "Not seepy," she mumbled. "No wanna leave you, Mama."
"Your Papa and I will wake you up when it's time for me to go, ner kar'ta, don't worry. Rest now, my love," Satine replied.
"But Mama…"
"Mama loves you so much, Iyla Satine. So so much and I promise to say goodbye before I go. Now sleep, baby girl. We'll be here the whole time."
"Ok, Mama. I wuv you," Iyla whispered drowsily.
"And I love you, dear one."
Iyla gave one last sleepy smile to Satine before gravity took hold and her eyes drooped closed. Her head lolled to rest on the tree at an awkward angle so Obi-Wan gently moved her to lie on the grass between Satine and himself. He ran a hand through her soft strawberry blonde curls and rubbed a finger over her cheeks that were still holding on to their baby fat. Satine brushed her hand over Iyla's head as well before planting a light airy kiss to her forehead. Both parents sat for a few seconds and marveled at the beautiful and luminous being they created, grateful and in awe of the precious gift they had been blessed with.
Satine was the first to break her gaze away from the sleeping girl and she took in the appearance of her love. He looked happier and lighter in this moment than she'd ever seen him. Though the lines on his face made him look older than his 38 years and the graying at his temple seemed to indicate a much older man. Another casualty of the war; his youth and faith in the good of humanity. She longed to pull him into her arms and right every wrong that caused his handsome face to bear so many burdens.
Obi-Wan looked up to meet her eyes and flashed a smirk, a mischievous glint in his eyes.
"Look what we made, ner cyar'ika. Who'd have thought that one night on the Coronet would have resulted in this perfect little one? That our passion and glorious union would bring us such a gift? And what a night it was too," he smirked cheekily and raised his eyebrows suggestively.
"Obi-Wan Kenobi! You scoundrel," Satine scolded but couldn't keep the grin from her reddened face. She chuckled and shook her head. He may be more hardened and his soul aged prematurely, but he was still her Obi-Wan.
Obi-Wan smiled innocently and winked before solemnity took over his features. "I miss you, my darling. Everyday. I wish you were here. Iyla needs her mother and I need you too. I don't think I can answer another awkward question about babies and human anatomy. I need you to do that instead, my dear," he joked.
"Is that all I'm good for? Your scapegoat for avoiding humiliation?" Satine asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Of course not, my love. You can handle discipline too because that child is too charming and stubborn for her own good."
"I wonder where she gets that from?" Satine scoffed.
"From you," they answered at the same time then chuckled.
"But in all seriousness, cyar'ika, I miss you with every part of my soul. There was a time when I thought I'd never heal, that I was doomed to live with my broken heart forever. But then I met our little light and she healed the aches I didn't even know I'd been carrying all these years. She's remarkable, Satine. But I wouldn't expect anything less from the daughter of the strongest and most extraordinary woman I know," Obi-Wan said reaching for her hand even though he knew he wouldn't be able to grasp it. The tickling breeze would do just fine as long as he was close to her.
"Obi," Satine said brushing his hand and using the other to stroke against his bearded cheek. "My dear, you know I don't blame you for what happened with Maul. I could never. You are not a god, as much as you Jedi seem to think you are."
Obi-Wan lowered his eyes to hide the moisture that was collecting in them. He couldn't face the woman he'd failed, the woman who deserved so much better than 'his best,' and who shouldn't have to visit her family for one night only through the Force, not even able to touch them properly. He felt a tickle on his chin and lifted up his head to see her understanding and loving gaze. A single tear was swiped from his face by a light touch and her hand cupped his chin. The Force around them was warm and filled with pure love and affection. Obi-Wan closed his eyes and got lost in the warmth that was his true love, basking in the moment and the gift he was given by her presence.
"I'm sorry, my Satine," he choked out, more tears slipping from under his closed lids.
"Shh, none of that, my beautiful man. No more. Now is not the time for dwelling on the past. Let's enjoy the present and be a family. Just you, me, and cuun mesh'la nau'ika," Satine said.
Obi-Wan nodded and leaned in closer to her. Satine bridged the gap and he felt a tingling sensation on his lips as she gave him a kiss. She scrunched up her face playfully as she pulled away.
"I'm still not sure about the beard," she joked.
Obi-Wan gave a wet chuckle and rubbed his scratchy face against her transparent neck.
Satine smiled lovingly. "Ni kar'tayl gar darasuum, my Obi-Wan," she whispered in his ear.
He shivered delightedly and brought his hand up to her face, resting just barely on her transparent cheek. "Ni kar'tayl gar darasuum, my Satine," he replied.
Obi-Wan carefully picked Iyla up and settled her on his lap then moved to sit beside his love, their fingers intertwined as much as they could be.
After a few minutes of silence and resting comfortably in each other's presence, Satine spoke.
"When I first found out about Iyla I was the happiest I had ever been. I was carrying our child. Something I'd always wanted but never imagined possible. My first instinct wasn't fear or anxiety. It was elation and excitement. Even as our little one grew inside me and my fears started to take over, all I had to do was think about your smile and how happy you'd be when the time came to meet your daughter."
"If I'd know Satine, I would have come for you. I wouldn't have let you endure the pregnancy and the birth alone. And you were alone, my love. You had no one when you were most vulnerable and for that I am sorry. I should have been there for you."
"No, darling. I couldn't do that to you. You were needed in the war. As much as I hated it, you were a vital part of the Jedi's cause. I couldn't burden you with that."
"You could never be a burden, Satine. Nor Iyla. Please know that," Obi-Wan said desperately.
"I know. And I meant to tell you. I was just…frightened I guess and uncertain. It was a life changing circumstance and I was afraid of ruining everything we'd worked so hard for. I was going to tell you after the war. I meant to go retrieve Iyla from Stewjon and bring her back once peace was reached. I promise you, my dear, I was never intending to leave you in the dark or keep Iyla from you. I just never got the chance and my fear, as I felt myself slipping away into the Force, was that you'd never find each other. So I prayed and pleaded with the Force, something I'd never done before, that you both would know each other. And the Force granted my wish, Obi. Though, I don't know exactly how," Satine said.
Obi-Wan chuckled and shifted closer to her then began to tell her all about how Iyla found him shortly after Satine's death. How she saved the galaxy and stopped the Jedi from extinction. Satine looked shocked and stared down at the tiny 4-year-old who was passed out in his arms, her thumb barely in her mouth and softly breathing against his chest.
"A remarkable child indeed," she whispered proudly.
"A true force to be reckoned with. Like her mother," he smiled.
"And her father," Satine replied.
"A true Kenobi-Kryze," Qui-Gon interrupted from behind them.
Satine and Obi-Wan startled and looked up at him. His eyes held a reluctant sadness and he fixed them with an apologetic gaze.
"A few more minutes, Qui-Gon?" Satine requested.
The Force Ghost dipped his head in acquiescence and gave them a smile then left them to their last few moments together. Jedi Master and Duchess sat together for another minute, their Force presences mingling and swirling around them, intermixing with the presence of their little light between them. A true family filled with love and affection growing in strength and resiliency. A bond that wouldn't break even when they parted ways. A bond that would prevail through the Force and through the pain to sustain them forever. Satine's absence would always be felt, but her love and strength would always remain.
Reluctantly Obi-Wan roused Iyla as Qui-Gon returned. The time had come. Although not enough and never would be enough, they were grateful to be given the gift in the first place.
"Wake up, my darling," Satine called to Iyla. "Wake up for Mama."
"M'ma?"
"Yes, my love. I told you I'd wake you when I had to leave."
"You g-gotta leave?" Iyla asked sitting up and rubbing her eyes.
"I'm afraid so, dear one. I must return to the Force."
"B-but…I not want you to go, Mama. I w-want you to stay! P-pease stay!" she cried.
"I can't, my love. But this isn't goodbye. Remember I am always here, ner kar'ta. I am your angel and I will always be watching over you and keeping you safe. And I will always love you, my nau'ika. Never ever forget that," Satine said running a shiny hand through her hair and along her face.
Iyla sniffled and wiped her eyes, her chest heaving as sobs threatened to break free.
"Chin up my kotyc ad'ika, my brave and beautiful baby girl. Mama is always here. I love you, my Iyla Satine. Darasuum."
"I w-wuv you, Mama. D-dawasoom," Iyla sniffled.
Even though she couldn't touch her the little girl buried her face in the transparent chest and closed her eyes as the tingling sensation surrounded her while love filled her Force signature. Satine brought her lips to her head and her cheek and closed her eyes as well, holding on to the last seconds with her daughter. Iyla refused to let go, causing Obi-Wan to have to lean over her to bury his face in Satine's neck as he too drank in the tingling sensation and pure bright warmth of his cyar'ika one last time. Satine brushed his lips with a kiss as well and cupped his cheek affectionately. She gave him a bittersweet smile as he picked up Iyla and stood in front of her with tears in his eyes. He shifted Iyla to face Satine and they looked at each other for a few more seconds trying to prolong the moment as long as possible.
"I will always be with you, my dear Obi and Iyla. No matter where you are or what you do, I will be there. You need only talk to me and I'll listen, always. Just as I will always love you, my darlings. Ni kar'tayl gar darasuum," she whispered. "Forever and ever."
"Forever and ever, ner cyar'ika," Obi-Wan said.
"Fowever and evew," Iyla replied.
With one last parting kiss for both of them, Satine and Qui-Gon disappeared back into the Force. Obi-Wan felt Iyla's hand reach up and wipe the tears from his face even as her own flowed down her cheeks. He smiled and hugged her close, pressing a kiss to her palm and rubbing his face against her face. Her joyful giggles filled the garden as they turned and left the space, the Force humming a bittersweet lullaby as father and daughter entered the temple and returned to their rooms.
From the Force a certain Force Ghost and Duchess watched the pair lay down and fall asleep together with smiles on their faces.
"They're going to be ok," Qui-Gon said.
"I know. They have us to watch over them after all," Satine replied.
"Forever and ever," Qui-Gon said.
"Forever and ever," Satine smiled.
Satisfied that the two Kenobis were safe and content, they enveloped them one more time with warmth and love before leaving them to their peaceful dreams.
Well, there you have it. The end of Breaking the Code. Thank you for coming with me on this journey. I can't tell you all enough how much your support, comments, and encouragement has meant to me. The fact that you stuck around for 35 chapter is enough to blow my mind. I still can't believe the response my cheesy, fluffy, cotton candy story has received and I'm so happy that you all love Iyla as much as I do. Thank you for taking her into your hearts, speech impediment and all. I'll miss your thoughts, but I welcome them all back when I put up the drabbles. Thank you, thank you, thank you, for everything and for giving this writer her confidence and love of writing back. I appreciate it more than you'll ever know and I'll always be grateful for you guys. Forever and ever! 3 :)
Mando'a translations:
mesh'la nau'ika—beautiful little light
Ad'ika—little one
Ba'vodu—aunt
Darasuum, ner cyar'ika—Forever, my darling
Buir—mother
Aliit—family
Aay'han—a bittersweet moment
ner kar'ta—my heart
ner cyar'ika—my darling
cuun mesh'la nau'ika—our beautiful little light
Ni kar'tayl gar darasuum—I love you
kotyc ad'ika—strong little one
darasuum-forever