Guess who's back? Back again. Blondeweasel's back. Tell a friend. ;) Anyways, greetings my Breaking the Code readers! I have finally found time to post the first one-shot of this drabbles fic. I have 4 chapters written already and posted on AO3 so I'm transferring them here now and will continue to as I write them.

Also! Guys! Guys! I was so excited because I found out a few days ago that "Iyla" actually means "bright light" in Indian! Like, I just picked the name because it resembled Isla (which is Scottish, shout out to Ewan McGregor) but I wasn't crazy about the spelling so I changed it slightly. Then I had Obi-Wan call her his 'little light' because she's bright in the Force, but now she's REALLY a light! Like, say whaaat? Mind. Blown. *explosive sounds* Anyways, I digress...

So a few people on AO3 asked about Iyla's birth so I decided to start with that and then explore her life at the Jons Home and how she came to meet Master Yoda before she goes back in time to meet Obi-Wan and change the course of history and everyone's lives. This one is kind of sad but we all know that happiness comes after so don't let it get you down too much. Hope you all enjoy!

Chapter 1: Going Back to the Start

"M'lady?"

Satine looked up from the beautiful little one in her arms to the young woman in the doorway. "Yes, Vania? Come in," she said using her free hand to beckon her forward.

"Just checking in, Duchess," Vania said. "Are you doing alright? Any pain or discomfort?"

"Well, I did just give birth, so there's bound to be some discomfort," Satine smirked.

Vania blushed and smiled. "Well, yes, ma'am. That is true."

"I'm doing well, Vania, thank you for asking," she looked down at the sleeping baby and smiled fondly. "This little one is doing well too."

"She's got a healthy set of lungs on her, ma'am. And she sure knows how to make an entrance," Vania teased.

After nearly 15 hours of labor and teasing her mother and the midwife with whether she really wanted out or not, the little Kenobi-Kryze was born. Two weeks early and a couple pounds lighter than they were comfortable with, but to Satine she was perfect. And really, she pretty much expected a child of hers to follow their own plans even if it inconvenienced others. The little girl came into the world with a loud, strong wailing cry and all the intensity and fierceness of her mother, then calmed down and simply laid still and serenely with the quiet strength of her father.

"Yes, she does," Satine agreed with a smile. "She gets her dramatics from her father," she laughed then went quiet and solemn.

Thinking about Obi-Wan in this moment gave her mixed emotions. She wanted to smile thinking about the look on his face if he were here to see their daughter and how absolutely smitten he would be with her. How his beautiful blue eyes would light up and his face would break out in a wide sparkling smile as he held her in his arms. But the urge to cry was stronger as she thought about him being worlds away fighting an awful war that he never wanted to fight and completely oblivious to the little life he helped create. How his Jedi ideals would make things difficult as they always have and how every new day brought about the risk that he could be lost to the war and never get to meet their beautiful little one. Mostly though, Satine felt lonely. A loneliness that surpassed the brightness of the little one in her arms and permeated the small room. She'd essentially be raising her alone and she'd have to be selective about who knew of her existence. Probably just a few ladies maids and Vania, the midwife. And who knew when the war was going to end and they'd get to be a proper family.

A soft cooing sound from the baby in her arms snapped her out of her melancholy thoughts. Her heart filled with warmth as she looked into the bright blue eyes staring up at her curiously. She ran her finger over the smooth round cheek and rubbed it gently. The child gurgled and waved her small fist around then latched on to Satine's finger and held tight.

Vania, who had turned away to clean up the room and leave the Duchess to her thoughts for the moment, turned back around at the cooing and gurgling sound.

"The little one is awake," she observed as she walked over to them.

"Yes, awake and happy," Satine smiled.

"Has the Duchess picked a name yet?" Vania asked.

"Iyla," Satine replied.

"Iyla," Vania repeated. "It's beautiful. What does it mean?"

"Bright light."

Vania looked down at little Iyla in her mother's arms and was hit with a sudden glow from the child. "Very appropriate ma'am," she said. "A beautiful bright light in these dark times."

"Yes. My mesh'la nau'ika. My Iyla," Satine replied. She pressed a kiss to the soft head of strawberry blonde hair and let the warmth and brightness fill her up as she breathed in her perfect baby scent. The road ahead would be hard and lonely and dark, but with her little light to brighten her path, she knew she'd be alright.

Vania woke early to a knocking at her door. She frowned in confusion as she rose from the bed. She didn't have many friends who visited her at her home and especially not at such an hour. The visitor seemed frantic in their knocking too, which was worrying.

"Wh-Who is it?" Vania asked, not willing to open the door just yet.

"Vania? It's Satine. Please open the door. It's urgent," the voice said quietly but desperately.

"Duchess?" Vania asked, startled.

"Yes. May I please come in? I have something important to discuss with you," Satine said.

Vania quickly opened the door and ushered Satine through. The Duchess was wearing plain civilian clothes with a large cloak pulled over her head, mostly obscuring her face. One arm seemed to be holding something against her chest under her cloak.

"Thank you, Vania. I wasn't sure where else to go," Satine said now trying to remove her cloak with one hand.

Vania stepped in to assist and together they got it off. The midwife gasped at the sight of the little girl in the Duchess' arms, sleeping peacefully against her chest.

"You've brought Iyla? Is she sick? You could have called for me, ma'am. I would have come to see her at the palace."

"No, she's not ill and I couldn't have you come to the palace. This is a very delicate matter and I didn't want to risk Iyla's safety."

"We've been plenty discreet and safe so far, m'lady. Iyla's existence has been relatively unknown to all, save for your ladies maids. Housing her in the maids' quarters has been very effective so far," Vania replied, inviting Satine to sit on the plush armchair by the wall.

The Duchess sat carefully so as not to disturb the sleeping child. "Yes, it has been effective and I'm grateful for that. However, I'm afraid this goes beyond just hiding her with the maids. This matter needs more extreme measures," Satine replied.

"Ma'am?" Vania asked.

"Please, take a seat, Vania. There is much to talk about."

Vania sat on an adjacent armchair and looked at the Duchess with concern. She was rattled and frantic, two things Vania had never seen in the composed and confident leader of Mandalore. She sat straighter in the chair and nodded at Satine to begin.

"Have you heard about the Death Watch?" Satine asked.

"Only what you've told me and a few whispers here and there. Why?"

"Death Watch has been trying to undermine the peace and neutrality of Mandalore for years now. I thought we'd subdued them, but it appears we've only strengthened their resolve. And, more corruption has recently come to light. Within the palace walls. Trusted advisors and friends have betrayed us and I fear there are more," Satine said.

Vania sat silently and took it all in for a moment before replying. "Corruption within your own advisors? But, how can you know who to trust?"

Satine gave her a wry smile. "I don't"

"But you've chosen to trust me." Vania said.

"You've been instrumental in ensuring Iyla's safety. Also, if you wanted to betray me, or planned on it, I think you would have taken advantage of it already," Satine smiled.

Vania smiled as well and looked her in the eyes. Satine had seen that look many times over the past two years. Vania was someone who said everything with her eyes and was very easy to read. With her, what you see if what you get and if there was any hint of betrayal or subterfuge, Satine would have been able to see it.

"So, corruption within the palace is causing you concern. That is understandable. But what can I do for you, m'lady?" Vania asked.

"I need you to take Iyla away," Satine replied.

Vania looked shock and stared at the Duchess with wide eyes. "Take her away? But…why? And to where?"

"The Prime Minister has been jailed for crimes against the people. Corruption, treason, betrayal. I'm not naïve enough to believe he's the only one and I can't risk Iyla's safety."

"The Prime Minister? Stars above! And you believe…that this might lead to further corruption?"

"Yes. Almec couldn't have been working by himself. I've also heard whispers of increased Death Watch activity on a planet near the Outer Rim. I fear they may be planning to undermine me again. And they'll be out for revenge this time as well," Satine explained.

"And they'll stop at nothing to achieve their goals," Vania finished. "Iyla is in great danger should she be discovered."

"Yes. Things are escalating quickly. As much as Mandalore wishes to stay neutral and out of the war, I feel that this is becoming more and more unavoidable. I cannot allow my child to get mixed up in it all. The safest place for Iyla is far away from here. It is far too dangerous to keep her on Mandalore, I'm afraid."

Vania nodded solemnly in agreement. "What would you have me do, ma'am?"

"Take Iyla to a small planet in the Outer Rim. There is a contact I have there. A woman who is kind and trustworthy and will not hesitate to help you should you need it."

"What is the planet called?"

"Stewjon."

"I have never heard of such a place," Vania said.

Satine chuckled. "Not many have. It's a very small and relatively unknown planet. Off the radar of the Republic and the Separatists. Which is perfect. The more hidden the planet the better."

"So, you want me to take Iyla to this planet, Stewjon. Then what?"

"I have gathered enough credits for you to live on Stewjon for a while. The woman, Mrs. Winters, runs a children's home. Go to her and explain your situation. She can help you find somewhere safe. I have brought a letter for you to give to her should she question your story," Satine replied. "Keep Iyla with you and look after her," Satine said.

Vania was silent for a moment. The gravity of the situation overwhelming her.

"I know I am asking much of you, Vania. Almost too much. I would understand if you declined. Leaving your home is a big sacrifice and you'd be risking your own safety in the process. "

"It is a big sacrifice, ma'am. But I am all you have. And all Iyla has. The safety of the child has always been my priority, since the day I delivered her into this world. If this is what is best for Iyla then I will do as you ask."

Satine gave Vania a grateful look. "I could not ask for a better friend, Vania," she said. "Iyla and I are lucky to have you."

"Thank you, m'lady. But…" Vania trailed off.

"Yes, Vania?"

"You…you will be back for us, right?"

"Yes, yes of course, Vania. Once this is all over and Mandalore is safe again, I will send word to Mrs. Winters and you can come back. This is only temporary."

Vania looked relieved but also sad. She could imagine the pain and heart break the Duchess must be feeling at the idea of giving up her child, if even temporarily. Although her face betrayed little of her true emotions, Satine's short breaths and burdened shoulders told a story of fear and anxiety.

Suddenly the toddler in her arms stirred and yawned. She looked up at her mother with bright blue eyes and smiled widely showing off her baby teeth. Iyla clapped her hands silently then brought them to her mother's face. "Mama," she said with a giggle.

"Hello, my darling," Satine smiled back as she ran a hand over the messy strawberry blonde curls, sheens of moisture collecting in her eyes.

"Mama sad?" the almost 2-year-old asked with a frown.

"Not anymore, my light. You make Mama happy. I love you so much, my Iyla."

Iyla giggled and clapped her hands again. "Mama happy. Mama wuv Iyla."

"Very much, dear," Satine whispered and planted a kiss to her forehead.

Iyla looked around the unfamiliar room and spotted the midwife. "Va-nya! Va-nya!" she called out with a smile and reached out her hands.

Vania took her from Satine's arms and hugged her close to her chest. "Hello, little one. I'm happy to see you again."

Iyla smiled and laid her head on the midwife's chest stifling a yawn. Vania had spent much time caring for Iyla over the past year and ten months and came to be one of the toddler's favorite people. Iyla felt comfortable and safe with her and Satine knew she'd made the right choice in trusting Vania with this important task.

Vania swayed and bounced the girl as she ran a soothing hand down her back and through her hair. Iyla was quickly on her way back to sleep and both women knew the transition would be easier with her asleep. Once the toddler's eyes closed completely Satine helped Vania gather her things and stuck the note securely inside the bag. With cloaks pulled up and the toddler securely hidden against Vania's chest, both women quickly made their way to the docking bay. Satine watched from afar as Vania bought a ticket on a passenger ship to Stewjon and claimed Iyla as her own to the ticket master.

Vania waited patiently as Satine tearfully kissed Iyla goodbye and whispered to her that she loved her and would be back for her soon. Iyla stirred at her mother's touch and smiled but never woke, instead burrowing deeper into Vania's chest. The brief teary hug and a look of sheer gratitude and affection from Satine to her trusted friend was interrupted by the call for boarding. With one last promise to protect Iyla and a vow that they'd be back together soon, Satine and Vania parted ways, Vania taking the toddler and a piece of the Duchess' heart with her. Satine allowed herself a moment to grieve before hitching up her cloak and returning to the palace.

Barely six months later, Satine was dead and Vania was gravely injured in a violent break-in. Before succumbing to her injuries, she was able to give the two-and-a-half-year-old Iyla to Mrs. Winters, telling her that someone would be back for the child soon. She didn't know that the Duchess was murdered, Mandalore lay in ruins, and the last person to know of Iyla's existence and true identity would soon be gone. Iyla Kenobi would be completely alone.

Children were crying all around her as various adults turned to comfort them. Three-year-old Iyla stood silently clutching her stuffed bantha and took it all in with wide and curious blue eyes. Something had happened to Mrs. Winters and everyone was very upset. Iyla had seen the grown-ups wheeling out a person covered in a sheet and had felt a darkness and sorrow in the air. She shivered and pulled her light sweater tighter around her chest. The grown-ups were now asking the children questions and interviewing sobbing staff members. All the while Iyla stood and stared.

The children were taken to the back room of the home and told they would be sent to a new home. One on the other side of town and much nicer apparently. Where the director was very excited to have them and couldn't wait to meet them. Her name was Mrs. Huber and they told them that she was ready to welcome them with open arms. This news seemed to placate many of the children and some were even looking forward to their new home. Iyla missed Mrs. Winters though. They had a special bond and she always went out of her way to make sure Iyla was safe and happy. She had no idea what this Mrs. Huber would be like. Maybe she would be nice and welcoming. But she'd never be as nice as Mrs. Winters was.

It turned out that everything they were told was a lie. The Jons Home was run down and crowded. There were barely enough beds and they were all squished together in tiny rooms with barely functioning lights and faulty pipes. Mrs. Huber was the opposite of welcoming and excited to see them. She stared all of them down with a scowl and ill-concealed distain. She told them they'd have to earn their keep and complete a long list of chores every day. And if they didn't do them correctly they'd have to do them all over again. If they were lucky, they'd get chosen by a grown-up to go live in their house and work for them. It was considered an honor and privilege for the poor lowly orphans who would likely amount to nothing else in their miserable lives. She said the rules were simple. Do your jobs well and you won't be punished. Make her mad and you'll regret it.

It became clear early on that it didn't take much to make Mrs. Huber mad. It was actually quite easy. Mrs. Huber wasn't satisfied with anything and once she singled someone out it was nearly impossible to escape her constant ire. Spilling things, breaking dishes, cleaning badly, crying, getting sick, wetting the bed, sleeping too late, having nightmares, any number of things could set her off. Punishments varied in severity based on the "crime." Most consisted of extra chores, redoing chores, or working late in the kitchen helping Ms. Charleston, the cook, who was just as bad tempered as Mrs. Huber. Other punishments though, were more severe, as Iyla soon found out.

"Fank you," Iyla said as she took the tray from a frowning Ms. Charleston.

She looked around at the crowded tables trying to find a spare seat. Finally she found one at a table against the far wall. She walked slowly with her heavy tray, careful not to drop it or spill anything. She'd seen the reaction that got from Mrs. Huber and it wasn't pretty. Thankfully she made it with no incidents.

"I sit here, pease?" Iyla asked the brown haired girl next to her.

"Sure," the girl replied.

Iyla set her tray down and climbed up on the chair. The table was high so she had to sit on her knees to reach her food. The brunette girl was now eyeing her curiously.

"You're from the other home, right?"

"Uh-huh. My name is Iyla."

"I'm Serriah," the girl said.

"Pease to meet you Sewwiah," Iyla replied taking a bite of her fruit.

Serriah smiled at her. "You got good manners for a little kid."

"Fanks. I'm free," Iyla said holding up three tiny fingers.

"Cool. I'm seven," Serriah said.

"Wow, you big!" Iyla replied.

Serriah laughed then turned back to stare at the empty space in front of her.

"You not hungwy, Sewwiah?" Iyla asked.

"Oh, uh, no, I'm hungry but…"

"Then why you not eat?"

"I'm not allowed to."

Iyla cocked her head to the side. "Not 'llowed to?"

"Yeah. It's my punishment"

"Pun'shmin? You was bad?"

Serriah lowered her eyes and bit her lip. "Yeah, kinda."

"What you do?" Iyla asked

"I broke a plate when I was washing dishes yesterday. But it was an accident. It was slippery and it fell outta my hands. But Mrs. Huber didn't believe me. She said I broke it on purpose."

"But that not fair. You not breaked it on puwpose!"

"Mrs. Huber thinks I did. She said cuz I broke the plate now there's one less plate to use for breakfast so that means I gotta not eat cuz I'm the one who broke it."

Iyla's brows furrowed in concern. "But…but you gotta eat. You be hungwy."

Serriah shrugged. "It's not the first time. I'll be ok," she said trying to reassure the little one next to her.

Iyla looked at Serriah sadly and turned back to her tray. She bit her lip anxiously as she stared at her toast. "You…you have my toast, Sewwiah," Iyla said as she pushed the plate of food closer to the older girl.

Serriah's eyes widened and she looked at Iyla in terror. "No! No, I can't!"

"Why? You not like toast?"

"No, I do, but if Mrs. Huber catches me eating when I'm not s'posed to then I'll get in even more trouble."

"Really?"

"Yeah. Really. So, uh, thanks but I can't," Serriah said.

"But, maybe you hide it and eat it 'nother time, when Missus Huber not looking," Iyla insisted pushing the plate closer to her.

Serriah pushed it back quickly and frantically as if it was going to attack her. "No, kid. I'll be ok. Just please take it away from me. I can't be seen with food. Please take it!"

Iyla felt Serriah's fear and nervousness clearly and overwhelmingly so she quickly snatched back the toast and put it on her tray. "Sowwy," she said.

"It's ok. You're new. You didn't know. Thanks for sharing with me. That was super nice," Serriah replied.

"You welcome. Sowwy you gots in twouble. Missus Huber is vewy mean. I not like her."

"Yeah, me either. But you get used to it. I heard your other home was nice and so was the lady in charge. Sorry she died. Do you miss her?"

"Yeah, lots," Iyla said sadly. "Missus Winter was the nicest and I liked her lots. She kinda like my fwiend. But now I not gots her or any uver fwiends."

"I can be your friend," Serriah said. "I mean, you did try to share your food with me and you're pretty cool for a little kid. Plus, you're new and I can help you get used to this place."

Iyla's eyes widened and she broke out in a huge grin. "You wanna be my fwiend?"

Serriah smiled too. "Sure. If that's ok."

"Yes, yes, pease! Pease be my fwiend, Sewwiah!"

"Ok," Serriah laughed. "Friends," she said holding out her hand.

"Fwiends!" Iyla replied and took her hand.

The two friends talked through the rest of breakfast and Serriah helped Iyla bring her tray back to the kitchen staff.

From then on she made sure the 3-year-old was always in her sight and tried to sneak comments and advice to her when Mrs. Huber or another adult's back was turned. Serriah assisted Iyla with the big chores when she saw her struggling and protected her from the bullies or from punishments as much as she could. And when she couldn't, she was always there to comfort her after a punishment or getting yelled at by Mrs. Huber. Iyla came to Serriah after nightmares and the 7-year-old let her sleep in her bed so no one would hear her cry and she wouldn't get in trouble for making noise. When she had accidents, Serriah would help her hide the sheets and wet nightclothes then keep a look out as Iyla changed. Serriah was Iyla's best friend and her protector. Her confidant and mentor. Iyla adored Serriah and looked up to her. And Serriah adored Iyla and looked after her constantly. Unfortunately though, the 7-year-old couldn't protect Iyla from everything. Eventually, Mrs. Huber found a reason to single Iyla out and there was nothing Serriah could do about it.

"I gots lahdry duty today," Iyla whined as she finished her last few bites of oatmeal, scraping the bowl with her spoon.

"Yuck. Sorry about that. I gotta mop the floor," Serriah replied sipping her milk.

"That takes fowever! You gonna miss lunch!"

"Probably. But you sneaked those apples from the kitchen yesterday, so I'll just get one of those," Serriah shrugged.

"Garron got frowed out this morning," Iyla said quietly and sadly.

"I know. I heard him cryin' and Mrs. Huber yellin'. She said he's worthless and lazy and no one will ever want him. So he's gotta to leave cuz he's bad for business," Serriah replied with an angry scowl on her face. "He's only ten. What's he gonna do outside all alone?"

"I dunno. That scawy. I hope I not get frowed out," Iyla said biting her lip and hugging her arms to her chest.

"Hey," Serriah said turned Iyla's face to hers. "You're not goin' anywhere. Not while I'm here to keep you safe. Don't worry. Just stick with me and you'll be fine," she said giving her a reassuring smile.

Iyla weakly returned the smile then went back to finishing her breakfast. A loud ringing bell sent the whole room of children scrambling to grab their trays and return them before heading off to do their chores. Iyla followed closely behind Serriah trying to not get bumped and shoved by all the kids running around. The tray was getting heavy in her arms so she pulled it closer to her chest to get a better grip but she stumbled and lost her balance. Serriah looked back to make sure Iyla was doing alright and her eyes widened when she saw the tray start to fall. She cringed because there was nothing she could do but watch as the disaster unfolded.

The tray in Iyla's arms toppled and her bowl of oatmeal was sent careening off the side. Both girls stood in silence and held their breaths in anticipation of the loud crash and shattering sound. But no such sound came. Iyla opened her squinted eyes in confusion and stared disbelievingly at the bowl hovering over the ground in mid air. Serriah's mouth opened in shock. She looked to Iyla who seemed just as startled as she was.

"H-How are you doin' that?" Serriah whispered.

"I…I dunno. I…I just finked real hawd about the bowl not breaking and then…it…"

Serriah opened her mouth to reply but was cut off by a loud shriek and the sound of thundering footsteps. Iyla flinched violently and the bowl went crashing to the ground in a mess of shattered ceramic.

"What is the meaning of this?!" Mrs. Huber shouted as she glared down at them.

"I…um…the bowl broked M-Missus-" Iyla said.

"I can see that you dim-witted child. I meant what happened before the bowl broke. Why was it…floating? Did you do that?" she snapped.

"Y-Yes. I t-think so but I not know how!"

Mrs. Huber narrowed her eyes and set her mouth in a firm line. She studied Iyla for what felt like hours with her cool and detached gaze. "You one of those freaky magic kids that use their mind to do weird tricks? Cuz I don't have time to deal with one of those types and no one is going to pay for a freak. I should toss you out right now."

Iyla's breath caught in her throat and tears prickled her eyes. "No! I…I dunno what you talkin' bout! I not use m-magic. Pwomise!"

"Well you did something and I can't let it happen again. If one of my clients bought you and you did that they'd bring you back and I'd be ruined. Whatever that…thing was, you better not let it happen again. Or else," Mrs. Huber said with a snarl.

"Uh, Mrs. Huber, ma'am," Serriah spoke up.

"What do you want, whelp?"

"I could help keep an eye on Iyla so she doesn't do it again. And I'll tell you when she does so she can get a punishment. I'll…I'll be your spy," Serriah said.

"Hmm, an informant would be good. You're always with the wretch anyways. Alright. You can be my spy. Tell me every time you see this nonsense so I can correct it. You understand me?"

"Yes, ma'am," Serriah nodded seriously.

"Good. Now, I think some time in the closet would be good for you," she said turning to address Iyla. "See if we can get that freaky behavior under control." Mrs. Huber gripped Iyla's arm tightly.

Iyla winced and cried out.

"Shut up. You're fine. I'm not even pulling that hard. Now, let's go!" The aging woman dragged the girl behind her out of the kitchen and into the broom closet next door.

Serriah followed them hurriedly and watched as Mrs. Huber harshly shoved Iyla into the closet causing her to hit her head on the dirty wall. Iyla sniffled and rubbed her head then curled up in a ball. Mrs. Huber smirked and turned around only to nearly walk right into Serriah.

"Don't you have chores to do?" she asked.

"Umm, yes. But I thought you might like me to watch her. To make sure she doesn't do nothin' weird to try to get out. Ya know, like use her magic or somethin'."

Mrs. Huber regarded Serriah silently. "Yes, yes, that's a good idea. Thank you, Serriah. Watch the girl closely and call for me if there's any funny business."

"Of course, ma'am," Serriah replied.

Mrs. Huber gave her one last look then nodded and stormed off. Serriah waited until she couldn't hear her footsteps anymore then quickly knelt down in front of the open closet so she was eye level with Iyla.

"You ok, Iyla?" she asked. "Does your head hurt? It sounded like it hurt."

Iyla hiccupped and nodded then winced. "S-Sewwiah….why you gonna tell on me?" the 3-year-old whimpered.

"Shhh, I'm not really gonna tell on you. I was just sayin' that so Mrs. Huber would let me always be around you and not get mad," Serriah whispered.

Iyla sniffled and looked at Serriah uneasily.

Serriah sighed and crouched down to sit on her knees. "Look, I don't know what you did, or how you did it. But I know it was an accident and you can't help it. And I don't want you gettin' hurt or in trouble again for it. That's why I'll be watching you, but not to tell, to help you hide it. I'm here to protect you, Iyla. You're my friend and I don't want you to get thrown out. I'll keep you safe. Promise," Serriah held out her pinky and gave the little girl a comforting smile.

Iyla returned the smile and locked her pinky with hers. Serriah would protect her. As long as she was around, Iyla was safe.

13-year-old Iyla Kenobi shivered violently as she sat under an overhang in Stewjon's market district. The thin sweater she was wearing was doing very little to keep out the biting cold and the freezing wind. She squeezed out her soaked hair and let it fall heavily and messily around her face and shoulders. She'd been on the streets for two months now and was constantly fighting for shelter with the other street dwellers. She'd been passed over many times by adults, never sparing her a second glance, simply curling their lips then ignoring her completely. With the rate Mrs. Huber was throwing children out of the Jons Home, there was very little the average citizen could do. The authorities had no control and the government was lazy and corrupt. Mrs. Huber was allowed to continue her heinous acts with no consequences and everyone turned a blind eye to the starving dirty children on the street.

Serriah had been sold off two years ago and with her went the protection and safety that Iyla had found. She no longer had anyone to help her keep Mrs. Huber at bay or keep her abilities a secret. Abilities that just grew worse with time and became increasingly difficult to hide. Without Serriah's watchful eye and cunning excuses, Iyla was left to fend for herself. She managed for a while to be discreet and careful, but when an uncontrollable outburst resulted in a shattered window, Mrs. Huber immediately tossed her out. She'd been wandering the dirty rundown streets of Stewjon ever since.

She'd been lucky this time to find a refuge from the storm and hoped that she'd be dry soon enough. She was cold, of course, but at least she wasn't getting rained on. Small mercies for the lonely and scared girl. Iyla reached into her pocket and pulled out a small bread roll she'd found relatively untouched in a basket that was dropped in a bin nearby. She bit into it hungrily and curled up tighter as the wind howled and bit at her exposed skin. A loud clap of thunder startled her and she dropped the roll. Before she could reach out to get it back, a nasty looking rat ran out from a hole in the wall next to her and snatched it up.

"No!" she breathed. "No! Please!" she scrambled after the rat but slumped in defeat as it crawled back into its hole.

Furious and hopeless, Iyla leaned against the wall and allowed the tears to fall. She tried to sniffle quietly and stifle her sobs so as not to disturb the street dwellers around her. They didn't take kindly to loud crying children. She covered her mouth and buried her head in her knees that were pulled close to her chest.

A shuffling noise to her right brought her head up with a snap. Her eyes were wide as she searched the darkness for the source of the noise. She let out a relieved breath when she saw no one but a lingering feeling in her mind still kept her on alert. She could sense something nearby but couldn't identify the intentions of said thing. Even though she wasn't in immediate danger, she knew that could change very quickly. Iyla was about to curl back up in a ball when she spotted an overturned fruit bag on the ground a few feet away. She licked her lips and her stomach growled violently. Looking left to right to make sure no one else was around she started to stand up but paused suddenly and froze. She couldn't leave her spot. It was the only covered spot left and could be taken in a second. She also didn't want to risk going into the light of the street lamp and drawing attention to herself. She sat back down heavily and sighed.

The shuffling noise had her on alert again and drew her gaze back to the bag of unattended fruit. Suddenly she remembered a trick she'd learned recently and decided to try it out. Iyla closed her eyes and slowed her breathing. She concentrated on the fruit and reached out to it with her hand. She couldn't tell if she was really doing anything so she peeked an eye open. To her amazement and excitement she saw the fruit slowly floating towards her. Iyla closed her eyes again and concentrated deeper using her mind and allowing an unknown entity to flow through her. Her concentration broke however when the sound of a throat clearing caused her to jump. She watched as the fruit fell quickly towards the ground then was snatched up by a clawed green hand.

"Take what is not yours, you should not," a scratchy voice said from the shadows.

Iyla swallowed nervously and scuttled back against the wall. She didn't know what was on the other side of that hand and she wasn't too keen to find out.

"Nothing to say, have you, hmm? Wrong, stealing is," the voice said again before the owner stepped into the light of the street lamp. A small green creature with pointed ears and a walking stick appeared in front of her. His wrinkles and shuffling steps showed that he was old, very, very old.

Iyla stared curiously and anxiously at the small creature and tried desperately to keep her jaw from dropping open in shock. "W-What?" she squeaked out.

"Trying to take the fruit, were you not?" the creature asked.

"Y-Yes. But I didn't…it was just sitting there and…"

"Belong to you, the fruit does?"

"Well, n-no."

"But taking it you were."

"I…I'm sorry. I didn't know they belonged to anyone. I'm just so hungry and it looked like they were dirty and no one was around so…I'm sorry for trying to steal your fruit, sir. I won't do it again," Iyla replied biting her lip nervously.

"My fruit, it is not," the green creature answered.

Iyla's eyes narrowed and her brow furrowed in confusion. "Then why-"

"Learn that trick, how did you?" the creature asked as it came to stand under the overhang with her.

"What trick?" Iyla asked innocently.

The old creature gave her an unimpressed look. "Move things with their minds, most sentient beings cannot. To do such things, special sensitivities a being must have. Done this before, have you?"

Iyla eyed the strange creature distrustfully. "Why do you want to know?" she asked.

"Hmmm," the being said. "Fearful and cautious you are. Sense that in you, I can."

Iyla huffed and rolled her eyes. "Well of course I'm cautious. I won't survive otherwise. Kids don't last long on the streets without being cautious and untrusting."

The creature nodded and smiled slightly. "Intelligent and strong-willed you are, child. Make good points, you do."

"Thank you…?"

"You're welcome. Now, answer my question you have not."

"I…I didn't learn it. It just kind of…happened one day. I don't know how. And then it just started to get worse. I taught myself to control it, but I have no idea why I can do it."

The little green creature eyed her knowingly but did not reply.

"But sir, you never answered my question," Iyla pointed out. "I answered yours so it's only right that you answer mine," she said and regarded him with a raised eyebrow.

The old creature lit up in amusement and cackled at her expression. "Remind me of someone, you do. Stubborn and hardheaded he was too."

"He? Who is he?" Iyla asked.

The creature waved a finger at her. "Asked a question you already have. Answer your first one only, I will."

Without another word the tiny green creature closed his eyes and held out his hands. Iyla watched in fascination as the entire bag of fruit rose up in the air and started floating towards them. The bag landed with a soft thump at their feet and Iyla's hand was suddenly full of a round sweet fruit put there by the strange green troll-like creature in front of her.

"You…you can do it too?" she asked shocked.

A light chuckle was her reply. The troll waved his hand toward the fruit, indicating for her to eat then sat down next to her.

Iyla bit into the fruit and wiped at the juice dribbling down her chin. She kept a wary eye on the creature as she ate and tried to study him without being obvious.

"So, you can do the magic too, huh?" she asked after the silence got to be too awkward.

"Magic it is not. The Force it is."

"The Force?" Iyla asked, her face screwing up in confusion.

"Hmm, much to learn you have," the troll replied.

"Well, considering I have no idea what you're talking about, then yes, I'd say I have much to learn," Iyla replied with a roll of her eyes.

The little green troll just cackled and grabbed a fruit for himself.

"Do I get to know your name? I'd like to know who to thank for getting me a snack," Iyla said. "Of course I could just call you little green troll creature, which is what I've been calling you in my head, but somehow I don't think you'd approve."

The troll's ears twitched in mirth and he reached his stick out to poke her in the side. "Well-mannered you are not, young one. Sassy and cheeky you are," he said but there was no anger behind his words.

"I know how to be polite. I was plenty polite before…well, anyway, the streets have hardened me. But I can be polite. I swear. And my apologies for my rudeness. I've had a hard time lately," Iyla replied.

The creature nodded in understanding and set his stick down at his feet. "Yoda, my name is. Master Yoda."

"Master Yoda? You're a Master? Like…like the ones who take in the kids to work for them? Have you come to look for a child to buy? I…I'm a very hard worker. I got thrown out only because of my magic…er…Force stuff, but you have it too, so you wouldn't get mad at me for it. And, and maybe you can help me with it, and I'll work for you, whatever you need. I'm very capable and skilled, sir! If you'd only give me a chance to show you then-"

"Come for a child I have not. Passing through Stewjon I was. Need for a worker I do not have. And buy someone I never will," Master Yoda said harshly.

"Oh. Well, you wouldn't really need to buy me. I don't belong to the home anymore. I'd come for free. And I could be very helpful, Master. You won't be disappointed. I promise," Iyla said looking at him pleadingly with her wide blue eyes partially obscured by now drying strawberry blonde locks.

Master Yoda was struck by the resemblance to the man he'd spoken of earlier. He frowned in confusion and reached out to the Force for answers. The Force hummed in agreement with him and seemed to glow bright and warm around the child, drawing him in and urging him to follow his instincts. A flash of a cheeky grin and auburn hair appeared in his mind as the Force sang in encouragement. Although not a vision, Yoda did not take the prompting of the Force or the grinning face in his mind for granted. He'd lived long enough to never doubt the impossible, no matter how improbable, and to trust the Force wholeheartedly. It would take a bit more convincing, but he was becoming more and more open to the possibility of the child's true parentage. And if it was what he was thinking, he could not leave the girl here.

"Master Yoda?" the girl asked.

Yoda opened his eyes and looked at her. "Your name, young one. Tell me, will you?"

"Iyla, Master. Iyla…" she trailed off.

"No second name, have you?"

"Um, well, not really. I know it's a K. But that's all."

"Curious," Yoda said quietly. "And your age?"

"Thirteen standard, sir."

Yoda hummed and nodded.

"I can also list my skills if you want?"

Yoda waved a hand and stood up. "No need, no need. Go soon, we must."

Iyla sat still in shock for a moment before she stood up as well. "We?" she asked hopefully.

"Changed your mind about coming with me, have you?" Yoda asked as he started ambling down the street.

Iyla snapped to attention and quickly walked to catch up to him. "No, of course not. Thank you, Master. You won't be disappointed. I promise. I'll do anything you ask. I'm very skilled in house work as well as cooking and some gardening and-"

"My servant you will not be," Yoda replied as he continued walking.

"Then…then why am I going with you?"

"Teach you I will. To use the Force you will learn. Sharpen your skills, we must."

"Oh, ok. Thank you, sir. But what will you get in return? What can I do for you?"

"Be a good student you will. Work hard and be willing to learn, you must. Do this, can you?" Yoda stopped and stared up at her.

Iyla met his eyes and nodded seriously. "Yes, yes, most definitely. I won't let you down, Master. I give you my word."

Yoda smirked and turned back around to continue walking. "Cooking and cleaning my specialty is not," he added.

Iyla smiled and chuckled. "Well, I can certainly assist in those areas as well."

Yoda's ears twitched in amusement but said nothing. The shuffling footsteps, clank of the stick against the ground, and light crunch of worn-out boots over gravel were the only thing heard as the pair walked and the Force sang around them.

Two years later, after countless lessons, research, questions, and investigating, Iyla learned about her father. Master Yoda had caved when she'd come to him with her overwhelming evidence and told her everything about him. Except where he was and how to find him. She set herself to the task of finding out but never seemed to get close to an answer. It would be another year before she'd find him and get to meet him. In a most unexpected way.

mesh'la nau'ika-beautiful little light

Next up: Teenage Iyla meets Obi-Wan during the war and tells him she's his daughter. He doesn't exactly take it well...

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Also, if you have any suggestions/ideas/thoughts on future drabbles or scenes you want to see, feel free to send me a PM or leave it in your review. I always welcome new ideas! :)