This one is extra long but I wanted to make sure I covered two separate Senate requests. Also, I am aware that Onaconda Farr is dead in canon but he isn't in this fic because I make my own rules and do what I want. I'm also not sure exactly how the pods in the Senate Chamber work so I made that up too. Hope you enjoy!

Summary: Padme takes little Iyla to the Senate where she charms everyone and unknowingly solves a planetary dispute. Then an older Iyla and Leia visit the Senate with Padme and do what Kenobis and Skywalkers do best-get into trouble.


Chapter 3: Senate Shenanigans

The first time Bail Organa met little Iyla Kenobi, he was immediately taken with her. The Kenobi charm was effortless for the 4-year-old and she shone brightly in the, at times, dull and dim Senate Building. Bail was knee deep in helping the new Chancellor, Mon Mothma, rebuild the Senate after the Palpatine fiasco and the work was tedious, frustrating, and maddening most of the time. He welcomed any respite he could get. So, when Padme had contacted him about bringing along a little visitor to see the Senate, he had agreed enthusiastically. A change of scenery, of routine, of people, was very much needed.

He met them in the lobby of the Senate Building and watched curiously as Padme led a little girl through the door. The girl's eyes were wide as they took in every inch of the huge lobby and Padme had to tug on her hand to get her to keep up. She stopped in front of him with the girl and gave him a hug which he returned happily. Padme was a dear friend and he always enjoyed her company.

"Pleasure as always, Padme," he said then released her and looked down at the girl. "And this must be our guest for the day. Who do we have here?" he asked.

"Hello, my name is Iyla Kemmobi. Peased to meet you," the little one bowed clumsily then stood back up.

Bail's eyes sparkled as he took in the strawberry blonde curls and shining blue eyes so much like his Jedi friend. So the rumors were true after all. Kenobi has a kid.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, as well, Miss Kenobi," Bail said with a bow of his own. The delighted giggles brightened his dull and weary soul and he found himself smiling right along with her.

"Iyla, this is Senator Bail Organa of Alderaan," Padme introduced.

"Hello, Misser Sensor Vail Ownaga of Alewan," Iyla said completely butchering the title and tripping over her words.

Bail laughed heartily. "That was a very nice try, little one. But let's go for something simpler. How about Mr. Bail?" he asked.

"Misser Vail," Iyla repeated with a nod.

Bail smirked and nodded back, knowing that was as close as it was going to get and not minding one bit. He'd gladly be called "Misser Vail" forever if it meant hearing her sweet little voice say it.

"Is Obi-Wan not joining us today?" he asked Padme.

"No, he wanted to but something came up," she answered.

"Ah, yes, Council business I assume," he said.

"Papa gots lotsa meetings wif the cowsul so Atie Pamay binged me here," Iyla stated.

"Well, it's very nice of your auntie to take care of you while your Papa is busy," Bail replied.

"Uh-huh! You know my Papa, Misser Vail?"

"Yes, I do, we've been friends for a while. He's a great man and a great Jedi."

"Yeah, he's the bestest!" Iyla exclaimed excitedly.

Padme and Bail laughed then Padme took Iyla's hand and Bail led them to the lift. He let Iyla push the button for the floor his office was on and smiled at her in thanks.

"Any particular plans for today," he asked as they exited into the hallway.

"Just a business luncheon with some of the other senators. I thought I'd show Iyla around a little bit before then."

"Sounds great. Mind if I join you on your tour?" Bail asked.

"Not at all, we'd be delighted."

After a quick showing of Bail's office and a 'fresher break for the 4-year-old, the three of them were off to see the more exciting aspects of the Senate Building. Iyla loved seeing the archives which looked similar to the ones in the temple that her Papa always liked to go to. She liked the statue hall as well because some of the faces looked funny or had nice smiles. She noticed that one was missing though and she asked about it. They told her that it was removed because that person did very bad things and was a very mean man. Iyla gasped and looked shocked then narrowed her eyes and glared at the open space as if the person the statue was based on could see her disapproving stare. Iyla's favorite room though was the vast Senate Chamber with its hundreds of pods and wide circular shape.

"This is the Senate Chamber. It's where we have our meetings," Padme explained.

"Wow! It's so big!" Iyla said.

"Each senator or representative has a separate pod that they sit in for the meetings. If they want to address the Chancellor or any other high officials, their pods can fly out to the center of the chamber," Bail said.

"They fly? Like a ship?" Iyla asked.

"Yeah, kind of like a ship. Not nearly as fast, but, yes, they can be flown around the chamber," Bail answered.

"Would you like to see how it works?" Padme asked.

Iyla nodded her head enthusiastically and took Padme's hand as she led them both into the nearest pod with Bail. Bail pushed the button on the console to start the pod and soon they were detaching from the wall and moving out to the center of the chamber. Iyla's excitement turned into fear and anxiety when she saw how high up they were without a protective shield around them like a ship or a speeder has. She clutched Padme's arm tightly and burrowed into her side with a quiet whimper.

"Is it scary, darling?" Padme asked running a hand through her hair in soothing circles.

"Too high," Iyla muttered.

"It's ok, little one. I've got you. I won't let you fall," Padme reassured her.

Iyla sniffled and kept her face firmly against Padme's stomach. Bail stopped the pod in the very center of the chamber and gave the girl some time to compose herself.

"Do you want to see what it looks like to be in the very center, sweetheart?" Padme asked.

Iyla nodded but was still radiating fear. Padme bent down and brought her arms around Iyla in a protective hold before turning her face to look out around them. Iyla's eyes lit up at the sight of all the other pods surrounding theirs and the large podium towering over them. The lights glowed blue and reflected in her curious but nervous eyes.

"Cool," Iyla whispered still clutching Padme tightly. Padme chuckled and motioned for Bail to take the pod back to the wall. Once the pod was firmly attached again and it was no longer obvious how far up they were, Iyla relaxed in Padme's hold.

"Did you like the pods, Iyla?" Bail asked.

"A little bit. But it was kinda scawy," she answered. "I not like to go too high."

"Yes, I can see where that would be a bit scary," Bail agreed. "But you were very brave," he said.

Iyla smiled shyly. "Fank you, Misser Vail," she said with a blush then looked at Padme and raised her arms up in a silent request to be carried.

Padme chuckled affectionately and lifted Iyla into her arms then carried her back to Bail's office, the little one's head growing heavier and falling slowly to rest on her shoulder. Iyla was set down on a couch and Bail handed Padme a blanket and a pillow to make the little one comfortable during her nap.

While their tiny charge slept, Bail and Padme took care of some business and caught up with each other. Padme told him how the twins were doing well in the nursery section of the crèche and she gushed about their accomplishments already at only six months old.

Iyla woke up 30 minutes later with a rumbling stomach. She sat up and rubbed her eyes groggily while looking around the room. She spotted Padme sitting in an armchair talking to Bail and got up to walk to her. Padme looked up and smiled fondly as she approached.

"Did you sleep well, little one?" she asked.

"Yes, Atie Pamay," she replied, knuckling her eye and stifling a small yawn. "I'm hungwy," she stated. "Can I gets a snack, pease?"

"How about lunch instead? I have a lunch meeting with some of the other senators and they've agreed to let you come along. Does that sound good?" Padme asked running a hand over her hair to smooth out the unruly curls.

"Ok, Atie Pamay," Iyla said. "We go now?"

"Soon, dear. Let's get you freshened up a bit," she smiled.

Padme led Iyla to Bail's 'fresher and helped her look a bit more presentable and not like she'd just woken up. Once her tunics were straightened and her hair as tamed as it was going to get, they were ready to head to the conference room where the luncheon was being held.

They were greeted enthusiastically by the various senators and Iyla quickly charmed them all with her adorable speech impediment and impeccable manners. Padme watched in amusement as colleague after colleague melted under the girl's warm smile and wide innocent blue eyes. She caught Jar Jar passing her extra cookies and sweets every few minutes and she had to step in to prevent a terrible tummy ache and sickness.

"So you are Kenobi's youngling?" Onacanda Farr asked Iyla.

"Uh-huh. My Papa is Obee Kemmobi. And my Mama is Satine Kweeze but she had to go away and she wif the Fowce now but she still wuv me lots fowever and evew," Iyla answered with a smile and jam smeared cheeks. Padme saw Farr's eyes soften and his posture physically wilt under her blinding grin.

"I knew your mother, little one," he said. "She was a wonderful woman."

"You knowed Mama?" Iyla asked with wide excited eyes.

"Yes, most of us in this room knew her," Farr answered.

"Papa tolded me Mama was vewy smart and I sawed a pishure of her and she was vewy bootiful too!"

"Yes she was," Padme said with a smile.

"Misser Farm," Iyla said turning to tug on Onaconda's arm. "Are you a Rodeen? My best fwiend Nawi is a Rodeen and she's gween like you and gots the same skin. She swims lots in the pond in the Fowsan Fownans acause Masser Tewwul says she gots to," Iyla said.

"I am a Rodian, little Iyla, very good. You are a smart child," he praised. "And your Master is right. Rodians need access to water to help us stay alive and healthy."

Iyla nodded then went back to her crackers. "That's what I fought."

"Have you enjoyed your time at the Senate Building, young Iyla?" Mon Mothma asked having joined them for a bit in between her Chancellor duties.

"Vewy much Missus Chalesor," Iyla replied. "We sawed the argives and the statue room wif all the big people made outta rocks. Esept one was not there no more acause he was bad and mean so they taked away his rock face," Iyla said looking serious.

The Senators all exchanged glances knowing exactly who the mean and bad man was, and that this innocent little girl, in another life and time, was responsible for thwarting his evil plans and saving them all.

"Then we goed on the flying circle ships but it was scawy. I not like being so high," she shuttered.

"I'm sure you'll grow to enjoy them as you get older, dear," Padme said.

The conversation then turned to business as each senator gave their input on a dispute over resources on a nearby Republic friendly planet. Recent oil and coal reserves were found in limbo territory between two unfriendly factions and neither side could agree on who should get what share of the reserves. In effect, it was a failure to compromise and share.

Iyla wasn't really following the conversation and instead was focusing on Jar Jar's funny faces as he ate. She hid her giggles and smiles behind her hand when his tongue would shoot out and take something from his plate. It was only when she heard the word 'sharing' that she started really listening.

"It is an exhausting chore getting two groups of grown adults to learn how to share," one of the senators said.

"The grown-ups not shawing?" Iyla asked.

"It appears not, darling," Padme answered. "They can't agree on who gets what and aren't dividing it fairly."

Iyla looked contemplative and stroked her chin in thought causing the senators to smother their laughter.

"That's like the time when Flynn and me both wanted to play wif the lellow speeders and we started yelling and getting mad, Masser Al-an said no one was gonna get it if we not learn to shawe. So we shawed but Flynn taked more than me and I was mad. Then Masser Al-an comed and taked the lellow speeders and gived us both the same so it fair," Iyla said.

The senators were all quiet around the room thinking over the girl's story and the hidden lesson they knew was waiting to be discovered from it.

Bail's eyes widened and he grinned brightly when he thought of something. "A representative," he said. "A republic representative, a neutral party, will go and survey the oil and coal reserves then determine the best way to divide up the resources fairly and without bias," he laughed at the simplicity of the solution. "If they don't agree, then we can withhold their access to it until they both decide to yield."

Padme and Mon Mothma shared a grin and nodded their agreement. The rest of the politicians agreed as well and soon the room was abuzz with plans and ideas.

Bail looked over at Iyla who was oblivious to the fact that she'd just solved a planetary dispute over natural resources with a story about yellow toy speeders. Instead, the 4-year-old was taking advantage of the other adults' preoccupation to reach for the last cookie on the tray in front of her. She looked up at Bail with the cookie in hand and tilted her head in a silent question. Bail's eyes flickered down to the cookie and back up to her face.

"You wanna shawe my cookie, Misser Vail?" she asked. "I twy to make it fair."

"Why thank you, mini Kenobi," he chuckled. "I would love that."

"You welcome," Iyla said as she broke the cookie in half. "Shawing is cawing," she stated before stuffing the cookie in her mouth.

"Sharing is caring," Bail agreed before eating his half as well.


Obi-Wan and Iyla were just finishing up their breakfast when the door buzzed.

"That's Auntie Padme!" 10-year-old Iyla said jumping up from her chair.

Obi-Wan watched in amusement as she enthusiastically ran to open the door.

"Hi, Auntie Padme! Hi, Leia!" she greeted. "Is it time to go? I'm ready! Bye, Papa!" she called over her shoulder.

"Hold on a minute, sweetheart," Padme chuckled and stepped inside with Leia. "We don't need to go quite yet."

Iyla looked disappointed but followed them into the kitchen. Obi-Wan stood up from the table and came to greet them with a kiss to Padme's cheek and a hug for Leia.

"Mornin', Uncle Obi!" Leia said with smile and a kiss to his cheek.

"Good morning, little one. Are you excited for your trip to the Senate today?" he asked.

Leia shrugged half-heartedly. "I've been before."

"Yes, but this time Iyla's coming with us," Padme said. "That has to make things more exciting, right, dear?"

Leia smirked mischievously. "Yeah, lots more exciting."

Padme lightly tugged her hair and gave her a warning look. "You better not be getting any ideas, Leia Skywalker."

"Course not, Mommy," Leia said innocently.

Padme scoffed and rolled her eyes. "Just like your father," she muttered.

"Don't worry, Auntie Padme, I'll keep her in line," Iyla said with a smirk.

"Well then who is going to keep you in line, my darling?" Obi-Wan teased.

"Papa! I'm always in line," Iyla replied.

"Oh, yes, of course, my mistake. So your Clan Masters are just exaggerating every time you and your friends get into trouble?" Obi-Wan asked.

"Yep!" Iyla answered with a wide grin.

"Brat," Obi-Wan laughed.

Iyla and Leia giggled at their parents then skipped off to Iyla's room.

"I'm assuming you're done with your breakfast, love?" Obi-Wan called. "I suppose I'll just put your dirty bowl in the sink then?"

"Yeah, thanks, Papa," came the reply from the room.

Obi-Wan and Padme shared an exasperated look and a chuckle. Padme took a seat at the table and Obi-Wan poured her a cup of tea then sat across from her with his own.

"Are you sure you want to take both of them with you?" Obi-Wan asked. "You know what they're like when they get together."

Padme smiled. "I'll be ok, Obi-Wan. Iyla's a good girl and Leia needs someone like her to set an example. Besides, the assignment will take up a majority of Iyla's time, and more time working means less time getting into trouble."

"Very true," Obi-Wan agreed with a sip of his tea. "Iyla really is excited to go and learn all she can for her assignment. She's already started drafting the written portion. Of course, don't tell her I told you. She's at an age where fitting in is becoming increasingly more important, and 'nerdy teacher's pets just aren't cool, Papa,'" he said.

"Ah, yes. The perils of the preteen years," Padme chuckled.

"I thought I'd have at least another year before we hit that point. She's only 10," Obi-Wan said.

"With girls, Obi-Wan, it starts much earlier than you think. Leia's only six and she's already starting to care about those things."

"Wonderful," he grumbled.

Padme laughed out loud then finished her tea and stood up. "We should get going if we're going to meet Bail on time," she said. "Leia! Iyla! Time to go!" she called.

Two muffled 'coming's came back to her before both girls appeared grinning and giggling in the kitchen.

"Now, girls, remember we are there for Iyla's class assignment and not to play. Leia, it will do you good to learn something too. This trip is a learning trip, first and foremost. Understood?" Padme addressed them.

"Yes, Auntie Padme," Iyla replied politely.

"Yes, Mommy," Leia agreed reluctantly.

"Good. Now, are we all set?"

"Yes!" both girls answered.

Padme smiled and ushered for them to follow her to the door.

"Wait a moment," Obi-Wan called out. "Don't I get a goodbye kiss?" he asked.

"Papaaa," Iyla whined looking embarrassed.

"Please," he said with a fake pout and sad akk-pup eyes.

Iyla gave him an unimpressed look but couldn't help the smile that was creeping on her face.

"I'll give you a kiss, Uncle Obi!" Leia said with excitement then bounced over to kiss his cheek.

"Well thank you, dear Leia. At least someone loves me," he said mock glaring at Iyla.

Iyla rolled her eyes at him but finally relented. She walked over and threw her arms around his middle then reached up to kiss his cheek. "Bye, Papa. Love you," she said quietly so Leia and Padme couldn't hear, as if either of them would care.

"Love you too, my little one," Obi-Wan replied. "Forever and ever."

"Forever and ever," Iyla looked up at him with her mother's beautiful smile.

Obi-Wan smiled back and kissed her cheek then started rubbing his scratchy beard against her face. Iyla giggled and squealed as she twisted in his arms.

"Papaaa!" she laughed.

Obi-Wan chuckled then stopped and let her go. "Goodbye, darling. Have fun. Be good. Mind your Auntie Padme," he said.

"Ok, see you later, Papa!" Iyla replied as she ran to join Padme and Leia. She gave him one last wave before the trio disappeared into the hallway.

Bail Organa was waiting in the lobby for them when they entered the Senate Building. He stood regal and tall but the cheerful smile on his face betrayed any notion that he was haughty or self-important. He had only been Chancellor for a little over a year after Mon Mothma decided to step down and take on less duties. She had done her part in restoring the Senate back to integrity and effectiveness after the Palpatine mess and helped bring the Republic up from its knees. It was up to Bail now to keep the Senate and Republic thriving. A daunting task but one he was eager and excited to do.

"Padme!" he greeted upon seeing the three of them.

"Hello, Bail," Padme greeted with a wide smile and a hug. "Good to see you again. Hopefully Chancellorship hasn't wreaked too much havoc on your free time."

"Oh, it most certainly has, but I could never deny the request of a friend," he replied then looked to the two girls standing next to her.

Iyla bowed deeply and respectfully first. "Good morning, Chancellor Organa," she said. "Thank you very much for meeting with me today. I appreciate it immes-immelns-inems-a lot," she finished with an embarrassed blush at tripping over the big word.

Bail smiled fondly and bowed to her as well. "Perfect manners as always, young Iyla. And you are very welcome. I am happy to assist you with your assignment. But, there is one important thing to remember," he said.

"Yes, sir?" Iyla asked standing straight and still, the perfect image of respectful and attentive Jedi Initiate.

"Just because I am Chancellor now, does not mean we are no longer friends. Such formalities are appreciated, but not necessary today, mini Kenobi," he said with a kind smile.

Iyla nodded and returned the smile, relaxing her posture and feeling relieved and at ease in the presence of her Papa's friend. Bail watched her carefully, marveling at how much she'd grown since he first met her six years ago. He suddenly felt nostalgic thinking about the curly haired little one who called him "Misser Vail" and shared her cookie with him. She was older and more serious now, but still had her sweet spirit and disarming disposition.

"I'm here too, Mr. Bail!" Leia spoke up.

Bail turned to the grinning 6-year-old and chuckled. "Well, hello, little Miss Leia," he greeted. "How are you this morning?"

"I'm good. Mommy said I could come today cuz I gotta learn some Senate stuff too. For when I'm bigger. I'm almost a 'nitiate so it's good for me to know," Leia replied standing tall and proud.

"Yes, well, you're both very smart and mature girls so I'm sure you'll get a lot out of your visit today," Bail said with a discreet wink to Padme.

"My assignment for my class is about what the Senate does and how the Jedi work with them to create peace," Iyla explained. "I've already talked a lot with Papa and Auntie Padme, but I thought maybe coming here would be helpful too."

"A very logical and intelligent conclusion. Often the best way to learn is by experience," Bail agreed. "Shall we get started then? There is much to see and much to learn." Bail gestured for them to follow him to the lift across the hall.

Iyla followed eagerly and with an excited spring in her step. She'd been to the Senate Building on multiple occasions, but not on assignment and not as in depth as she would be seeing it today. She couldn't wait to learn all about the relationship between the senators and the Jedi and absorb as much information as possible. Her Papa said she takes after him in his diligence and love of knowledge and her Mama in her determination and tenacity. The perfect combination for a true scholar. Though this often set her apart as a 'goody two shoes overachiever,' Iyla never stopped pursuing her love of learning and her enthusiasm for her classes. She just learned to keep it quiet most of the time.

Bail led them from room to room explaining the ins and outs of everyday Senate life and introduced them to various senators and politicians they happened to run into. Iyla was impeccably polite and gracious to each of them for their time, effectively charming them with her bright smile and sunny disposition. She was sure to scribble down notes and questions on her datapad while she walked and listened, taking it all in with a sense of wonder and awe. But Iyla could tell that Leia was growing bored and impatient, dragging her feet and getting distracted easily. Leia's distraction was in turn distracting Iyla and she found it hard to keep following along with Bail's tour.

Padme noticed her daughter's restlessness and Iyla's preoccupation with trying to pay attention while Leia's mind wandered and pulled hers along with it. She caught up to Bail and suggested they cut the tour short and finish the lesson in his office with some snacks and drinks. Bail too could sense the wandering minds and agreed.

"I think that will conclude our tour," he said as they entered the hallway from one of the conference rooms.

"But…we haven't seen everything yet," Iyla said with a hint of disappointment.

"The rest can be saved for another time, Iyla," Padme reassured her. "But it has been quite a long tour and I'm sure you both could do with a snack and a break."

Iyla fought down the urge to pout at the implication that she was a baby who needed rest and food to make it through a tour. Maybe Leia needed a rest, but she certainly didn't. She was 10-years-old and well past the time of naps and snacks. She sighed inwardly when she realized that the break was much more for Leia's benefit than hers and she couldn't help the annoyance that surged up in her at having to yield to her baby cousin. Padme caught her eye and gave her an understanding look mixed with a slight command to take the offer without a fight.

"Yes, Auntie Padme," Iyla said quietly.

"Have you gathered enough information for your assignment, young one?" Bail asked.

"Yes, Mr. Organa. I do have some questions though," she replied.

"Excellent. I would be happy to answer your questions back in my office. I'll have my secretary bring in something for us to eat as well," he said as he led them down the hall.

Padme ushered them into the lift and held out a hand for Leia to hold on to as she looked ready to drop at any moment. She pulled Iyla close to her side and ran a hand down the back of her hair and along her shoulders.

"Thank you for agreeing to stop, sweetie. I know you wanted to continue but I appreciate you putting Leia's needs above your own," she whispered then hugged her close.

Iyla melted slightly into the embrace and laid her head against her aunt's arm. She was disappointed that the tour was cut short but she was a bit hungry and her feet were starting to hurt a little. A rest and a snack wouldn't be too bad, really. And she'd get to see the Chancellor's office. That was exciting enough to drive away her frustration.

Padme directed the girls to the 'fresher attached to Bail's office and told them to use it then wash up for snack. Iyla's face colored at being told to use the 'fresher like a youngling but she didn't argue and simply took Leia with her to the room.

Padme helped set out the crackers and fruit on the table in front of the couch while Bail poured out cups of water and juice for them. They both sat and sipped their drinks while they waited for the girls to return from the 'fresher.

"Thanks again, Bail. Iyla's having a great time and learning a lot as well," Padme said.

"Yes, I can tell. I'm surprised that datapad hasn't overloaded with all the information she's been putting on it," Bail chuckled.

"Well, she is a Kenobi," Padme smirked.

"And a Kryze. Satine was relentless in her endeavors too," Bail replied with a fond smile.

"Relentless is right. You know Iyla would have continued that tour until she couldn't walk anymore and even then she'd insist on seeing everything," Padme joked.

"The apple doesn't fall far from the tree," Bail nodded and smiled. "Good thing we have your little Leia to curb that Kenobi-Kryze enthusiasm and force her to actually rest."

"She was definitely holding back an epic pout when I said it was time for a snack and a break. She's fiercely independent and mature but she forgets that she's still very much a child and still needs adults to look out for her. A little forced rest and coddling will do her well. Plus, I can't resist mothering her. Force of habit since she was three," Padme laughed.

"I'm sure Obi-Wan appreciates it."

"Yes, very much. I'd never try to replace Satine, but I do love Iyla like my own. Obi-Wan has told me many times that he's grateful that I give Iyla a mother's touch and he knows Satine would be grateful as well."

"I'm sure she would be too," Bail agreed.

Padme smiled shyly and took another sip of her drink. Iyla and Leia returned from the 'fresher and sat on the couch, Leia immediately reaching for some fruit and crackers while Iyla waited patiently for permission.

"Help yourself, Iyla," Bail said, gesturing to the plates and cups. Iyla smiled in thanks and started in on the fruit and crackers as well.

They sat and ate as Leia regaled them with stories about her and Luke's adventures in the crèche while Padme looked torn between amusement and disapproval. Iyla laughed heartily at the story and Padme and Bail exchanged knowing looks at the mischievous and impish look in her eyes. Many people let the Kenobi charm and politeness fool them, but Iyla could be just as much of a troublemaker as her cousins.

"Thank you for that exciting story, Leia," Bail said amused.

"Welcome!" she grinned.

"Now, Iyla, you said you had a few questions for me," he said turning to her.

Iyla scrambled to put down her glass of juice and fished her datapad out of her bag. "Yes, sir. Just a few."

"Let's hear them then. I'll be glad to answer what I can."

"What happens when the Jedi and the Senate disagree? Is there a protolcalled for this?" Iyla asked.

Bail had to smother his chuckle at her mispronunciation and focused on answering her question instead. He explained the procedures for disagreements and how the Senate and the Jedi usually settle their disputes then moved on to address her other questions as well. Finally Iyla was satisfied and her insatiable curiosity was quenched.

"I think I have everything I need now, Mr. Organa. Thank you," she said putting her datapad back in her bag.

"You're most welcome, Iyla," Bail smiled.

"Mommy, are we done with the Senate now?" Leia whined as she flopped back on the couch with a huff.

"I have a few things to discuss with Mr. Organa, darling. Can you wait patiently until then?" Padme asked.

"Can me and Iyla go look at the big statues in that hall so you and Mr. Bail can have your boring grown-up talk?" she asked.

Padme chuckled and looked to Iyla. The older girl was trying not to look too interested in getting out of the room but Padme could tell she didn't want to stick around for their discussion either.

"Yes, dear. But stay with Iyla and stay in the hall. I'll come find you when I'm done," Padme agreed.

"I'll look after her, Auntie Padme, don't worry," Iyla reassured her as she jumped up quickly from the couch and grabbed Leia's hand.

Both girls practically ran from the room in their haste to escape the boring political business talk that was about to take place. Bail and Padme exchanged amused looks and shook their heads.

Iyla breathed a sigh of relief that she escaped the boring discussion and followed Leia silently to the statues. She frowned when she saw her cousin hang a left and head down a corridor.

"Wait, Leia, that's not the way to the statue hall," she called out.

"I know," Leia answered. "We're not going to the statue hall."

Iyla's brown furrowed in confusion. "What do you mean? You told Auntie Padme we were going to see the statues."

"I just said that so we could get outta that boring room," Leia said waving a hand over her shoulder.

"But…you lied to her? Lying is wrong, Leia."

Leia rolled her eyes. "Thanks polite police," she sassed.

Iyla scowled and narrowed her eyes. "Leia! What happened to your manners?"

"They taked a hike. Like you can do if you're gonna be a fun-ruiner goody goody."

Iyla stopped in shock and stared after her. The mouth on that little brat irked her and she was tempted to just leave Leia to get in trouble on her own and go back to Mr. Organa's office. But she remembered that she told her aunt she'd look after Leia and it wouldn't be right to break that promise. Plus, Leia was only a little kid. She needed looking after from someone more mature. She noticed that Leia was now quite a bit farther down the corridor and she rushed to catch up.

"Where are we going?" Iyla asked. She didn't recognize this area of the Senate Building and she didn't think they'd covered it on their tour. She started to get anxious and had the feeling that wherever they were going, they were most certainly not allowed.

"We're going to that big room with all those round ship things," Leia answered.

"Round ship things?" Iyla asked confused.

"Yeah, you know. The ones the senators ride in when they have the big meetings."

"The Senate Chamber? Why are we going there?"

"Cuz I wanna go in one of the ships," Leia answered.

"What? Leia! We can't do that!"

"Why not? I can do whatever I want. My mommy's a senator. She works here so it's like I work here too."

"That's not how that works," Iyla said rolling her eyes.

Leia shrugged dismissively. "Are you coming or not?"

"I told Auntie Padme I'd look out for you," Iyla answered.

"Then that means that you gotta come."

"No. It means you have to come with me to the statue hall, like we said we were gonna do."

"You're not the boss of me," Leia said turning around with her hands on her hips.

"Right now I am. I'm the oldest and the most mature, and responsible, and-"

"Boring and lame and no fun," Leia interrupted.

"Hey! I am not boring and lame. I get into plenty of fun adventures with my friends," Iyla said defensively.

"Then let's do a 'venture now!" Leia exclaimed grinning impishly.

"This isn't an adventure, this is a disaster waiting to happen." Iyla argued.

"Then you gotta come with me to make sure I don't cause a disaster," Leia countered.

Iyla was silent for a moment and thought about the predicament she found herself in. She really didn't like this idea and she knew it would blow up in their faces but she also couldn't leave Leia alone and her cousin was too stubborn and hardheaded to listen to her. She groaned as she realized she was stuck and had no choice but to follow along with the 6-year-old Skywalker. Leia smiled at her resigned look and grabbed her hand to lead her down the corridor.

"Come on, I know a short cut," she said.

"Leia, I really don't like this," Iyla protested as she stumbled along after her.

"It's fine," Leia replied.

Iyla knew it in fact was not fine and wasn't going to be fine but she was helpless to do anything more than go along with it. Leia stopped in front of a small opening in a wall and got down on her hands and knees.

"What are you doing?" Iyla asked.

"The doors need a code and there's sensor thingies. This way we can get in and not get in trouble," Leia reasoned.

"We're still going to get in trouble," Iyla muttered.

"Are you coming or not, scaredy cat?" Leia called as she entered the small crawl space.

Iyla bristled, affronted by her remark and immediately got to her knees to follow. Both girls let out a quiet 'wow' as they stood up and took in the massive chamber filled with pod after pod for what seemed like miles.

"Cool!" Leia shouted and ran for the nearest pod. She jumped in and started looking at all the controls on the panel in front of her.

"Ok, Leia, you got in a ship. Can we go now?" Iyla asked standing back against the wall.

"I wonder how they fly," Leia said ignoring her.

"I dunno. Maybe we can ask your mom later. But let's go back now, ok?"

"Or we can find out without asking Mommy," Leia grinned mischievously.

"No!" Iyla said firmly. "Let's go," she started walking towards Leia when the console in the front of the pod lit up.

"Oooh, I think I turned it on."

"Well turn it off! And let's go."

"Oh, come on, Iyla! Just one ride? We won't even be out there very long. I just wanna see how it moves. Just one trip around the chamber, that's it."

Iyla bit her lip nervously and looked from Leia to the crawl space in the wall. It was so tempting to just leave but she was a bit curious about the pods. Last time she was in one she was scared to death, but she wondered if this time she'd like it. She nearly relented but thought about her Papa's words before she left.

"Papa wouldn't like it. He said to be good."

"Well he doesn't have to know," Leia said with a smirk.

"I dunno. He always seems to find out things."

"Well this time he won't. We'll be done with the ships and back with Mommy and Mr. Bail soon. Uncle Obi will never know."

"Leia…"

"Come on. I didn't know Kenobis and Kryzes were wimps."

"We're not!"

"Then come on! Unless you're too scared," Leia said in a mocking tone.

"I'm not scared! I'm…apprehenzive," Iyla said.

"No idea what that means," Leia tilted her head in confusion.

"It means nervous, anxious, cautious, worried," Iyla replied ticking off her fingers.

"Blah, blah, blah. Look are you coming or not? I don't have time for henzives and chickens," Leia mocked.

Iyla clenched her jaw and sneered. "I'm no chicken," she said angrily.

Iyla stood up tall and stalked into the pod with her cousin, determined to save face and prove she wasn't a coward. She pushed the smaller girl aside slightly and took over the controls on the console. Without a second thought she pushed a button and the pod was floating off from the rest. Leia squealed in excitement and clapped her hands. Iyla maneuvered the pod to make a circle around the chamber and couldn't help smiling at the flying feeling. This was pretty fun. She decided to not stop at just one circle and nudged the pod into another lap around. Leia was vibrating with happiness and started pushing her away from the controls so she could take over. Iyla stood behind her and instructed her on how to move the pod and soon Leia was getting the hang of it. Both girls were laughing as the pod did circle after circle.

"Hey, Iyla," Leia said. "I got a idea."

Iyla inwardly cringed because nothing good ever followed those words from Leia Skywalker's mouth but she inclined her head for her to continue.

"Wanna race?"

"Race?"

"Yeah, dummie, get in your own ship and we can race!"

Iyla's eyes widened in alarm and she hesitated. It sounded dangerous and irresponsible. Definitely something they'd get in massive trouble for if they were found out. But it also sounded like tons of fun and they both were pretty good at flying the pods by now. Just one little race wouldn't matter. They'd do it then leave, no big deal. Before her common sense had time to tell her not to, Iyla was nodding her head and jumping into the pod next to Leia's.

"Bring it on, Skywalker. Hope you like the taste of dust, cuz you're gonna be eating it," Iyla taunted.

"Dream on, Kenobi!" Leia shot back.

With twin impish grins both girls shot out of the wall and were off. Their insults and taunting mixed with their excited giggles and squeals and soon the sound was echoing and resonating throughout the chamber, the Force alive with joy and pleasure. Neither of them seemed to take notice of the time spent there or the not two, but three adults quickly approaching the chamber having heard the commotion and running to see what was happening. Obi-Wan finished his meetings early and had come to retrieve Iyla and give his regards to the new Chancellor and his friend, Bail when he met a frantic Padme in the hallway looking for the missing girls.

Leia and Iyla's friendly chase was brought to an abrupt end when a loud and firm voice sounded from the main door.

"IYLA SATINE KENOBI! What do you think you are you doing?!" Obi-Wan's angry voice shouted.

Iyla gasped and tuned to the voice, pushing the stop mechanism accidentally. The pod jolted violently and Iyla nearly toppled over the side in shock. Obi-Wan's Jedi fast reflexes and Force push saved her from tumbling head first into the miles long chasm below. She flew back and was sent sprawling from the force of it. She winced and rubbed her head before scrambling to her feet to face the fuming man at the door. Leia stood just as shocked in the pod next to her and looked anxiously at her angry mother standing with her uncle. Bail Organa stood behind them looking wide-eyed.

Before either of them had a chance to start up their pods again, Obi-Wan raised his hand and Force pushed them both back into place with the others. Neither of them moved from the pods once they were reattached and it wasn't until Padme made a quick and angry gesture for them to come out that they sprang into action and jumped out to run to the door.

Iyla could feel her Papa's anger and disappointment and she shrunk back a bit as she came to stand in front of him. Leia was sniffling as Padme took her over to the wall and started speaking in hushed yet seething tones. Obi-Wan said nothing but was clearly trying to get his anger under control with slow and steady breaths. Iyla tried to copy his breaths in an effort to calm herself down. She'd never seen him quite this mad before and she was honestly a bit afraid.

"P-Papa?" she asked after a few minutes of silence on his end.

Obi-Wan opened his eyes at her question and fixed her with a disappointed stare. "We are going to go back to Mr. Organa's office to have a talk and you will explain yourself, Iyla Satine," he said.

Iyla winced at the use of her middle name again. "Y-Yes, Papa," she stuttered out and swallowed thickly in fear.

Obi-Wan's face softened a bit and he sent her a calming feeling through the Force as he noticed her anxiety and breathing starting to notch up. Iyla reveled in it and let it help regulate her breathing but it also brought guilty and miserable tears to her eyes as she struggled to remain composed.

"Are you hurt?" he asked.

Iyla hastily shook her head but winced at the motion. Obi-Wan frowned.

"Did you hit your head?" he asked.

"Wh-When I fell back in the p-pod," Iyla replied.

Obi-Wan brought a hand up to cup her head and feel for a bump. There was a small knot on the back of her head so he rubbed it gently and used some Force healing to dull the pain.

"That should work until we get home and put some bacta on it," he said.

"Thank you, Papa," she hiccupped.

Obi-Wan brushed a tear away with his thumb and cupped her cheek before straightening up, his face clouding over in displeasure once again.

"Come," was all he said before turning and leading her out of the room. Leia trotted along beside her rubbing her red eyes and still sniffling. She looked nervously up at her cousin a few times.

"Is Uncle Obi really mad?" she whispered.

"Yes," Iyla said tersely.

"Oh," Leia replied.

Iyla stared silently ahead and focused on following her Papa back to Mr. Organa's office.

"Iyla…?" Leia asked.

"Stop it," Iyla whispered harshly. "I'm not talking to you right now. I told you this wasn't a good idea and now look what happened. So just stop it and leave me alone."

Leia ducked her head and moved closer to Padme. Iyla tried to feel regret at her harshness but couldn't help thinking this was all the 6-year-old's fault. So she continued staring ahead and ignored Leia's sad teary eyes.

The walk back to the Chancellor's office was silent and wrought with tension. Bail allowed them to use his office while he sought out some of the other senators for meetings and left them alone. Leia and Iyla sat rigidly on the couch and looked warily up at their parents. Padme and Obi-Wan stood with their arms crossed and leveled them with their best 'disappointed parent' looks.

"Who would like to start?" Obi-Wan asked. He turned to Iyla.

Iyla looked at him wide-eyed and felt her mouth go dry. "I…it wasn't my idea," she said then immediately knew it wasn't the right thing to say.

The line between Obi-Wan's eyebrows creased even further and his frown deepened. "I don't much care whose idea it was, Iyla Satine," he said.

"Yes, Papa," she said and bowed her head apologetically.

"Look at me when I'm speaking to you," he said firmly.

Iyla snapped her head up quickly.

"Now, are you ready to tell me what you were thinking without trying to paint yourself as innocent, because I'm very sure that you are not, young one," Obi-Wan said crossing his arms.

Iyla nodded and swallowed before answering. "Leia and I were having a race in the pods. We only planned to have a quick lap around but I guess we got caught up."

"Oh, so you only planned one trip, did you? And that makes it alright?" he asked.

"No, Papa," Iyla answered dejectedly.

"What were you doing in the Senate Chamber anyways? Why were you not in the statue hall like you told me you would be?" Padme asked.

Iyla looked sideways at Leia and flicked her eyes back to her aunt. Padme shifted her gaze to the 6-year-old and cleared her throat expectantly.

"I…I lied about goin' to the statues, Mommy," Leia said quietly. "I wanted to go in one of the round ships but I knowed you'd never let me."

"So you thought you'd sneak off and do something you know I wouldn't allow you to do?" Padme asked angrily.

"Yes, Mommy," Leia answered.

Padme turned her disappointed gaze to Iyla. Iyla felt her heart pang a bit at the look and her eyes watered. She never wanted to see that look on her aunt's face again. She loved Padme like a surrogate mother and knowing she broke her trust was enough to nearly send her into hysterics.

"And you went along with this?" Padme asked her.

"I…I didn't want to. I tried to get her to stop and go back but she wasn't listening to me. I thought about going back and telling you anyways but I promised I'd look after her and I didn't want to break that promise. Plus, she needed someone to make sure she was safe," Iyla explained.

"And keeping her safe meant getting in a hover pod and flying it around the Senate Chamber with her?" Obi-Wan asked coldly.

"No…but she wasn't listening to me. I tried to get her to come back with me, Papa. I really did. I told her it wasn't a good idea and that it was wrong but she kept going anyways!" Iyla said getting worked up. "I never wanted to go there but I couldn't leave her!"

"It's true, Uncle Obi," Leia spoke up. "Iyla didn't wanna go. She tried to stop me but I didn't listen."

"I'm very disappointed in you, Leia Skywalker," Padme said. "I told you to be on your best behavior and listen to your cousin but you disobeyed me. We will be having a long talk about this when we get back home."

"Yes, Mommy. Sorry."

"You owe Iyla an apology as well," Padme said.

"Sorry, Iyla," Leia said turning to look at the older girl.

Iyla glanced sideways at her and nodded before muttering, "I forgive you," with a little more bite than was necessary. She caught her Papa's glare and saw him shake his head in rebuke of her tone.

"While Iyla might have not wanted to go with you, Leia, and while she did try to stop you, she still got in that pod on her own and made the decision to fly it around without approval. You did not force her in. Her poor choices are her own," Obi-Wan replied glaring at his daughter.

"But she called me a wimp and a scaredy cat! She said I was a chicken and a boring goody goody. And I'm not!" Iyla said defending herself.

"So the words of a 6-year-old caused you to put both of your lives in danger. All for what? To prove you aren't a coward? I've never known you to choose reputation over obedience before Iyla and I don't like it. Pride does not suit you and it is unbecoming of a Jedi," Obi-Wan chastised.

Iyla lowered her eyes to her lap and twisted her hands in her tunic. "I'm sorry, Papa," she replied.

"I'm glad you're sorry, but I'm afraid this is an incident that will take more than an apology to correct. We will discuss consequences back in our quarters," he said.

Iyla nodded then sniffled quietly, swallowing down the sob that was clawing up her throat.

"I told you to mind Padme and be good. I thought I could trust you to be responsible and mature but I guess that was too much to ask. I am very disappointed in you, Iyla," Obi-Wan said sadly.

"I…I'm s-sorry, P-Papa," Iyla hiccupped.

"You owe your Aunt Padme an apology too," he told her.

"I'm sorry, Auntie P-Padme," Iyla said with a miserable look.

"Apology accepted, little one," Padme said with a soft smile. She then turned to Leia. "I am very disappointed in you as well, Leia," Padme said. "I am tired of you causing trouble all the time. I cannot trust you to behave yourself so maybe you need to stay in the temple from now on. Luke can accompany me on my errands instead."

"B-But Mommy," Leia protested. "I'm sorry!"

"No," Padme said with finality. "You could have been seriously hurt, Leia. Thankfully those pods don't go very fast, but you could have crashed one accidentally or tipped it and fallen off. That was very dangerous and foolish. And you dragged your cousin in as well. Iyla's decision or not, you teased her and were very rude."

Leia looked down at her lap as well and wiped her eyes.

Obi-Wan spoke up again. "We were both very scared when we saw you two playing in those pods. And when you nearly toppled over the edge, Iyla. You're lucky I was able to Force push you back in. A fall from that height…" he trailed off and shuddered. "You were careless and reckless and you could have been seriously hurt, or killed," he said.

He moved to crouch down in front of Iyla and took her hand, putting a finger under her chin to lift her eyes to his. "Then what would I have done? I can't lose you, my little light. I can't lose you like I lost your mother." To Iyla's horror she saw tears welling up in her Papa's eyes as he gripped her hand tightly. "I can't lose you," he rasped out quietly.

Iyla finally gave in to her sobs and fell forward into his arms with a whimper. She cried against his chest, hysterically gasping out apologies and hiccupping promises to do better. Obi-Wan held her tightly and kissed her head then rubbed her back soothingly to calm her down. Leia was now in Padme's arms as well, the two of them having come to the same conclusion, that Leia could have been lost along with Iyla.

Both Skywalkers and Kenobis sat for a moment longer drawing comfort from each other and allowing it to soothe their nerves and lingering anger and fear. A quiet knock at the door brought them out of their family moment and Padme called out a 'come in.' Bail peeked in looking unsure and awkward.

"Come in, Bail. We've hijacked your office for long enough," Padme joked.

"I can come back if you need more time," Bail said looking at the two red faced and puffy eyed girls on his couch.

"No, it's alright. We should be going anyway," Obi-Wan said releasing Iyla and standing up. Iyla still clung to his arm though, now tired and uncaring if she looked like a baby.

"Alright, if you're sure," Bail said.

"Very sure," Padme smiled. "Thank you, Bail, for today. I'm sorry it had to end this way but I hope that future visits won't include any more incidents."

"It was my pleasure to host you, Padme. And the girls as well," he replied.

"I'm very sorry for my behavior, Mr. Organa," Iyla spoke up. "It was foolish and irresponsible and I am ashamed."

Bail gave her a soft smile and nodded. "Apology accepted, young Iyla. I enjoyed your company and I know you're a good girl. I'm sure this will not happen again."

"No, sir," Iyla said seriously.

"Sorry, Mr. Bail," Leia sniffled from Padme's arms.

"All's forgiven, little one," Bail smiled at her as well.

"I learned a lot today, Mr. Organa," Iyla said. "Thank you for taking time to talk to me. I hope I can come back and finish the tour sometime soon…that is if you'll still have me," Iyla said biting her lip.

"I'd be delighted to have you back, Iyla. But maybe we'll skip the Senate Chamber next time," he winked.

Iyla giggled and nodded emphatically. "Yes, sir. I think I've seen enough of that room for a while."

Bail laughed and led them out to the lift and down to the lobby. He waved at them as they left and grinned to himself as he walked back to his office, secretly amused at the sheer havoc a small Kenobi and Skywalker could wreak in only a few hours.

Outside the Senate Building, Padme and Obi-Wan said their goodbyes while Iyla and Leia were left to stare awkwardly at each other.

"Sorry, Iyla," Leia said looking up at her with sad eyes. "Sorry I didn't listen and got you in trouble. Do you still like me? You still wanna be my cousin?" Leia asked.

Iyla's eyes softened and she smiled. "Of course I still like you! And we'll always be cousins, no matter how much you drive me crazy. Little imp," she said affectionately.

Leia gave an excited shout and threw herself into Iyla's arms. Iyla laughed and hugged her back, both girls knowing that all was forgiven.

The Kenobis and Skywalkers parted ways and got in their separate speeders to head back to the temple.

Iyla sat quietly in the passenger seat, lingering shame and regret swirling around her in the Force. Obi-Wan reached over and took her hand then gave it a squeeze before bringing it up to kiss it gently. "We still need to have a discussion at home, but always remember I will never stop loving you or wanting you, my little light. You're stuck with me," he teased lightly.

Iyla giggled and relaxed against the seat. "Forever and ever?" she smiled.

"Forever and ever," he replied.


Thanks for reading, reviewing, following, and favoriting. Next chapter will be up soon hopefully. I started work again (8 hours with kids after not working for 6 months, Lord give me strength!) so that will slow things down a bit but hopefully not too much!