Buckle up, people! Here it is: The confrontation! Obi-Wan tells Flynn and Iyla that they can't be together anymore. He thinks he got through to them after Iyla suspiciously agrees. Of course, he should have known that a Kenobi-Kryze would have something up her sleeve. Another even bigger confrontation happens and it goes, as predicted, terribly. Hurt feelings, misunderstandings, harsh words, and extremely unhealthy avoidance of reconciliation. Enter Yoda and Satine (through the Force) to knock some sense into the two idiot Kenobis. Quite literally ;)
This chapter is a roller coaster of emotions so hold on tight! Also I hope I didn't make Obi-Wan too OOC here with the losing his temper. I know he's usually pretty even tempered but no one knows quite how to push our buttons like family, right? Plus, Iyla is too much like Satine and, well, we saw how he was with Satine at times. And for the drinking, well, family makes us do things we wouldn't normally as well and he thought he was losing Iyla who is all he has left.
(Mando'a translations in the end notes).
Chapter 9: Do as I Say, Not as I Do
Iyla yelped as she was grabbed by the arm on her way to the dining hall for lunch and dragged behind a pillar.
"What the kriff-" she said before she was interrupted.
"Shhhh," the voice said.
"Flynn?"
"Yes, but be quiet."
Iyla sighed. "What happened now?"
Flynn let go of her arm and leaned in close to talk quietly. "I think Master Koon just threatened me," he said.
Iyla looked at him disbelievingly. "What? Master Koon? No way."
"Yes, way! He said 'mind you your actions, Padwan,' because 'people are always watching' then stared at me for an uncomfortably long time before walking away."
"Hey, that was a good Master Koon impression."
"Iyla!" Flynn whined.
"Sorry," she said. "I never would have expected that from Master Koon. Master Fisto most likely, but not Master Koon."
"Master Fisto just watched my every move and glared at me," Flynn replied.
"Yeah, that sounds about right."
"You know what this means, right?" Flynn asked.
Iyla looked at him with wide eyes. "If Masters Koon and Fisto know, then Papa has to know."
"Exactly."
"Kriffing hell," Iyla muttered. "We're so dead."
"Definitely. And that's not the worst of it," Flynn said.
"It's not?" Iyla asked fearfully.
"Master Kenobi invited me over tonight."
"What?!" Iyla squeaked.
"He asked if I was coming over to study with you and said he hoped I would," Flynn replied.
"Oh, Force."
"This is going to go terribly isn't it?" Flynn asked.
"Yes. Extremely terribly."
"What are we going to do?"
"Don't worry. I'm a Kenobi-Kryze. I always have tricks up my sleeves," Iyla grinned impishly.
Iyla and Flynn entered the Kenobi quarters apprehensively. They each carried a stack of datapads in their hands containing their assigned reading and homework for their classes and they tried to appear nonchalant and unsuspecting, shielding their worries, fake smiles and well-practiced innocent looks on their faces.
"Hi, Papa," Iyla greeted cheerfully. "Flynn's here to do some homework. Hope that's ok," she called as she entered the kitchen knowing full well that Obi-Wan had asked Flynn to come.
"Yes, of course, darling. Come on in," Obi-Wan greeted back.
As they came around the corner both teens' fake smiles slipped for a second as they saw their Masters and Anakin waiting for them in the living room along with Obi-Wan. They gave each other nervous looks.
"Master?" Flynn asked hesitantly. "What are you doing here?" He projected his confusion and fear through their bond.
Caleb winced. "We need to talk, Padawan," was all he said.
Flynn nodded silently and set down his datapads on a small table. Iyla did the same and then took a seat on the couch. Flynn was about to sit next to her but Caleb cleared his throat and shook his head. After a glance at Obi-Wan and Anakin and their challenging glares, Flynn sat down in a nearby chair instead.
"What is this about, Papa?" Iyla asked innocently.
"It has recently come to my…our…attention that you and Flynn might be in some sort of romantic relationship," Obi-Wan started.
"Flynn and I are friends, Papa. You know that."
"Yes, I do. But we have reason to believe that there might be something more than friendship there as well."
"Um, Master Kenobi?" Flynn spoke up quietly. "Can I ask what gave you that idea?"
"Of course you may, Flynn. And it's not really an idea, is it?" he asked with a raised eyebrow.
Both teens glanced at each other again.
"What do you mean?" Iyla asked flashing her big blue eyes at Obi-Wan.
"We saw the recording, Iyla," Ahsoka replied.
Genuine confusion showed on Iyla and Flynn's faces. "What recording?" they asked at the same time.
"The one showing you two making out on the balcony on the night of the Padawan Yule Party," Anakin answered with a glare.
"There was a camera out there?" Flynn asked, his face pale and eyes wide.
"Yes, Flynn. You think they aren't going to plant cameras all around a party for a bunch of hormonal teenagers? Jedi or not, kids are kids," Caleb said.
"So, if you saw the recording then you know that what you 'have reason to believe' is true. What's the point of this meeting? Intimidation?" Iyla asked with a raised eyebrow that was eerily like her father.
"No. This kiss was an indicator of the possibility of a relationship. What I want to know is if this was a one-time thing or if you two really are an item, as Ahsoka said. But that can't possibly be true, can it? Especially because I told you no boyfriends," Obi-Wan said with his arms crossed.
Flynn looked over at Iyla and saw a spark ignite in her eyes. He swallowed nervously as he waited for her reply.
"Of course not, Papa," Iyla said with an innocent smile.
"Iyla," Obi-Wan said warningly.
"I mean, best friends randomly kiss each other on balconies all the time, right?" she smirked.
"This is not a joke," Obi-Wan said with narrowed eyes.
"You're right. It's not. It's reality. Flynn and I are together and have been for a while."
Obi-Wan took a steadying breath. "What about our agreement?" he asked.
"What agreement?"
"The one where you promised to not have a boyfriend," he replied.
"I don't recall promising anything," she said.
"You sat right there in that spot and told me you that you understood," Obi-Wan said.
"Just because I understood doesn't mean I promised anything."
"You said you agreed with me."
"I changed my mind," Iyla shrugged.
Obi-Wan grit his teeth and breathed deeply.
"Maybe we can talk about some terms," Ahsoka jumped in when it looked like Obi-Wan might lose his cool.
"Terms?" Iyla asked. "What is this, a peace treaty?"
"Basically," Caleb muttered.
"Guidelines…um, conditions, of sorts," Ahsoka said.
"Sounds an awful lot like we're being told what to do with our lives, Master," Iyla said crossing her arms.
"You are," Obi-Wan said.
Iyla's eyes flashed dangerously and she clenched her jaw. The room practically vibrated with tension and anger.
"You don't get to tell us how to live our lives," Iyla growled.
"Yes. I do. I'm your father and I'm in charge."
Iyla scoffed and rolled her eyes.
"Drop the attitude Iyla Satine," Obi-Wan warned. "And look at me when I'm talking to you."
Iyla flicked her icy eyes to him and Obi-Wan almost wished she'd kept them averted. He felt Anakin, Ahsoka, and Caleb shiver at her glare and poor Flynn looked ready to bolt at any second.
"Now, I don't really have control over Flynn, that responsibility falls to Master Dume, but I can put rules in place for you, Iyla," Obi-Wan said steeling his resolve even as her eyes grew even colder.
"Doesn't Soka get a say?" she asked.
"Ahsoka may be your Master but I am still your father. Fatherhood trumps Masterhood."
"Says who?"
"Says me," Obi-Wan said firmly.
"I bet that's not in the Code," Iyla grumbled.
"Not yet. I can always go add it in. I've changed it once before, after all," Obi-Wan said with a satisfied smirk.
Iyla glared at him and raised her chin. "Fine. What are these rules you have in mind?"
"You and Flynn are no longer allowed to be romantically involved and your relationship will be strictly platonic from now on," Obi-Wan replied authoritatively.
Iyla's mouth dropped open and Flynn sat up in his chair in alarm.
"You can't be serious," Iyla chuckled darkly.
"Why wouldn't I be?"
"Because that's totally ridiculous. I'm old enough to decide who I want to have a relationship with."
"You are still a child and understand nothing of relationships," Obi-Wan asserted. "Which is why it needs to stop and will stop tonight."
"And you all agreed with this?" Iyla asked looking around the room. Iyla's eyes landed on Ahsoka and she sent a wave of inquiry through their bond.
"I may not completely agree with Master Obi-Wan's demands but I do think there needs to be some guidelines in place," Ahsoka replied.
"For the record, I don't agree with Obi-Wan either," Anakin said.
"Really?" Iyla and Flynn asked at the same time.
"Yes. I opted for killing Flynn instead."
Flynn's face paled even more and he looked ready to pass out.
"Yeah, that sounds about right," Iyla said.
"You…you were kidding though, right?" Flynn asked still looking alarmingly white.
"No," Anakin replied sending him a fierce glare.
Flynn turned terrified eyes to his Master and Caleb gave him a reassuring look. "Don't worry. He was overruled," he said.
"For now," Anakin smirked evilly.
"Ok, before Uncle Anakin scares Flynn anymore, what guidelines do you have in mind? Are we allowed to be in each others' presence or is that off limits too?" Iyla sassed.
"No, you may remain friends, but in public and around others who can keep an eye on you," Obi-Wan replied.
"So we can be watched?"
"Yes. To keep you both accountable. And being friends in public will ensure that."
"So, we can be friends in public?"
"Yes."
"Ok," Iyla agreed.
Flynn looked at her confused. She'd agreed that quickly and easily? She was just raging mad not 30 seconds ago. Maybe it was those strange teenage girl mood swings he'd heard about or… He watched curiously as her eyes sparkled with mischief and he suddenly realized that this was the 'trick up her sleeve' that she'd referred to earlier.
"Ok?" Obi-Wan asked, looking just as puzzled. "You're agreeing with me?"
"Yes. I agree to your terms that Flynn and I will be friends in public," Iyla stated.
Ahsoka and Caleb side-eyed each other and looked suspicious. Something didn't feel right.
Obi-Wan narrowed his eyes and studied Iyla for a moment. He really didn't trust her to keep her word this time and she had agreed strangely fast.
"Do you give me your word? Only friendship?"
"Yes, Papa. Flynn and I will not be romantic in public and will only be friends."
Obi-Wan still looked skeptical but ultimately agreed to give her a chance. If they were always around someone then they'd be able to watch them closely anyways. They agreed to not be friends without prying eyes and not in secret so even if she had something planned, surely they'd all see, right?
"Good," Obi-Wan said. "Then we have an agreement. One that hopefully you will keep this time."
"Is there an 'or else'?" Iyla asked snarkily.
"Or else Markus will be sorry," Anakin replied.
Iyla rolled her eyes at his dramatics and pushed herself off the couch. "Can we go study now?" she asked.
"Not alone," Obi-Wan answered.
"Of course not, Papa," Iyla nodded innocently. "I was hoping Master Dume and Soka might accompany us to the Archives instead. Less tension and death threats to distract us," she teased.
"Yes, that sounds like a good idea," Obi-Wan smiled.
"Excellent," Iyla replied. She turned to take her stack of datapads off the table and Flynn copied her actions.
"What are you doing?" he whispered harshly.
"Relax," she replied with a grin.
With a respectful bow to her Papa and Anakin, Iyla walked out of the Kenobi quarters as Flynn, Caleb, and Ahsoka followed.
Flynn quickly caught up to her and gave her an 'explain yourself' look.
"It's fine," she said quietly to him.
"Fine? You just agreed that we wouldn't be in a relationship anymore!" he replied testily.
"No I didn't."
"What do you mean? Yes you did!"
"No, I agreed that we wouldn't be in a relationship in public," Iyla smirked.
"That's not what Master Kenobi meant and you know it."
"But it's what he said," she grinned impishly.
"That's a dirty trick," Flynn replied.
"You don't like it?" she asked sweetly.
Flynn smiled. "It's brilliant."
Caleb and Ahsoka kept glancing back at them with narrowed eyes. Neither Master believed for one second that Iyla didn't have something planned. This matter was far from over. Despite what Obi-Wan believed. Things were about to get more heated and complicated and they feared an even bigger blow-up was imminent. Force help them all when it comes.
Sometimes the vode district wasn't equipped with every supply or essential item for all of the different battalions in the area. This required them to have to travel to neighboring or sometimes farther communities to find what they need. Which was why the 212th and 501st were currently in Coruscant's main market square. They usually wouldn't travel so far but it really was difficult to find enough food for all of them. Especially with their different preferences. It just so happened that their neighboring districts were completely out of a certain kind of Mandalorian spice they planned to use in their dinner and they had heard about a supply that was found in the main district. They'd quickly jumped in their speeders and headed over there to ensure they'd be able to get some. They also figured they'd make a stop to see their generals, vod'ika, and two little ad'ike afterward. A surprise visit. What they didn't realize was they were about to get a surprise of their own.
"Hey, vod, does vod'ika still like mujas?" Waxer asked Fives.
"As far as I know."
"She's recently taken to meilooruns too. Luke and Leia as well," Rex added.
"Great, I saw some a few stalls back," Waxer replied. "I'll go pick some up."
Waxer wandered back to the meiloorun cart and started searching for the perfect ones. He wanted only the best ones for his vod'ika and ad'ike. He was in the middle of a very serious deliberation between one with less spikes and more color or one with more spikes and less color when he heard a familiar giggle. He jerked his head up curiously and looked around. Not immediately seeing anyone, he went back to his deliberation. Another giggle had him looking again before he spotted her.
Iyla was browsing a cart of books and talking amicably with the vendor. Waxer frowned a bit in confusion over why she wasn't in the temple but reasoned that perhaps she was with General Kenobi on a shopping trip. He scanned the area around him but couldn't find a hint of the general anywhere. Maybe she was alone. In which case, why was she allowed to walk around the city by herself? That definitely wasn't safe. He was about to call out when he saw another person come up and stand next to her. He tensed up for a moment but relaxed when he noticed it was only Flynn. Well that wasn't too bad. Just two friends on a shopping trip…standing strangely close to each other and…were they holding hands?! What the-
"Hey, Waxer what'ya looking at?" Echo asked in his ear causing Waxer to jump and drop the fruit he'd been holding.
"Haar'chak, Echo!" he hissed. "Way to scare the lights out of me."
"Sorry," Echo grinned in a way that clearly showed he wasn't the least bit sorry.
"What do you want?"
"We finished the shopping. Got the spices and a few other things. Came back to try to find you and see what's taking so long," Kix answered from next to Echo.
"I saw something interesting," Waxer replied turning his eyes back to the book stall.
"Hey, it's vod'ika!" Fives nearly shouted.
"Shhh! She'll see us!"
"Isn't that what we want?" Rex asked.
"No," Waxer replied. "Now get down behind the cart and I'll explain."
The vode looked at each other strangely but did as Waxer said and crouched behind the fruit cart.
"What's going on, Waxer? Why are we hiding behind a cart like unruly cadets?" Boil grumbled.
"Iyla's here with Flynn," Waxer said.
"Ok…" Rex said. "So let's go say hi."
"No."
"Why not?" Cody asked with a raised eyebrow that showed he'd spent way too much time around Obi-Wan.
"Because something weird is going on. Look!" he said pointing toward the book vendor.
Each vod popped their head up to watch the two teenagers. A ripple of confusion passed through them when they saw that they were hand in hand and Iyla appeared to be leaning against Flynn's side. Their eyes widened as they saw Flynn's other hand come up to play with Iyla's wavy hair while she rested her head on his shoulder. They watched as Flynn leaned down to whisper in her ear then kissed her cheek lightly. Iyla giggled and reached up to kiss his cheek as well. What the ever loving kark was going on?!
Waxer heard Boil growl behind him and he felt his own anger rising inside too.
"That handsy, forward, little ba-" Boil was cut off by Fives' sharp breath.
Both teens were now nestled just inside an alley but still in view of the vode and currently kissing passionately.
"What the hell?" Cody snarled. "They…they're…"
"Making out," Kix finished sounding shocked and mad at the same time.
"I'll kill him," Rex said starting to stand up from his crouch.
"Yeah, we'll teach him to lay his hands on our vod'ika," Echo agreed starting to move as well.
"No," Cody commanded.
"But Cody," Fives whined. "He's kissing her. Don't you want a piece of him?"
"More than anything," Cody said with narrowed eyes. "But let's leave that for the General. Then when he's done, we can take a shot at him too."
"Like target practice?" Boil asked with sadistic glee.
"Yes. But stun only, Boil," Cody warned.
Boil looked disappointed but agreed.
They looked back up to see Iyla and Flynn finally break apart and continue down the market street hands entwined and smiling like two love-sick puppies.
Waxer stood up and glared at the back of Flynn's head as they walked away. He heard Rex groan behind him as he stood up as well.
"We're too old to be crouching behind fruit carts, vod," Rex complained.
"Oh, hush, Rex. We're not that old," Fives replied even as he winced and stretched out his legs. "At least we're aging normally now that they gave us that serum to counteract the rapid aging affect."
"True. Good thing too. Makes it easier to kick that little Jedi's ass," Boil said.
"Hear, hear," Fives agreed.
"So, to the temple to tell the General?" Kix asked.
They nodded in agreement and started off for the temple grumbling and brainstorming how to scare and intimidate the Force right out of Flynn Markus.
Her Papa had told her he would be in Council meetings all day. Iyla made a show of looking disappointed and feeling sorry for him but inside she was elated. She and Flynn planned to sneak out of the temple and walk around the markets for a bit to get some much needed alone time. Flynn told Master Dume that he was going to buy more bread for dinner and Iyla told Ahsoka she was going to replenish their tea supply. They both conveniently forgot to mention that they wouldn't be going alone. If they had, they knew they'd never get to go at all.
It was nice to be out and away from prying eyes. They'd found times to be alone during the last two weeks but it never felt like they were truly alone. The only way to be truly alone was to escape the confines of the temple. So they hatched their plan and enjoyed their free afternoon where they didn't have to hide or worry about being caught. Or so they thought.
Iyla's comm went off just as they were leaving the market district and heading back to the temple. She jumped slightly at the noise before taking it out of her pocket. She held a finger to her lips and eyed Flynn seriously.
"Kenobi," she answered.
"Padawan?" Ahsoka asked.
"Yes, Master?"
"Are you still at the market?"
"Yes, but we're leaving now," Iyla replied.
"We? Who's we?"
Iyla's eyes widened and she looked at Flynn pleadingly for help. He shook his head and shrugged not knowing what to say.
"Umm...yeah, me and…the tea. The, uh, tea and I are leaving now. Because I came here to get tea. And I definitely did," Iyla answered awkwardly.
Flynn brought a hand to his face. Iyla cringed at her terrible lie and knew Ahsoka would be suspicious. She hoped she'd be able to think of a better excuse on their way back to the temple.
"…Ok…" Ahsoka said. "Well, when you both…you and the tea…get back to the temple, stop by our quarters before heading to the dining hall. I have to discuss the living arrangements schedule with you."
"Yes, Soka, I mean Master," Iyla replied.
"See you soon," Ahsoka said before a beep signaled the end of the call.
"You and the tea?" Flynn asked incredulously.
"I panicked!"
"For Force sake, Iyla. For someone who's so clever, you really are an idiot sometimes."
"Shut up, Markus. Like you could have done any better?" Iyla pouted.
"Of course I could have," Flynn insisted.
The next second his comm went off and Iyla smirked at him.
"Here's your chance," she replied then folded her arms and looked at him expectantly.
Flynn scowled at her and took his comm from his pocket.
"Markus."
"Padawan?" Caleb asked.
"Yes, Master?"
"You almost done with the shopping?"
"Yes, Master. I'm headed back now," Flynn replied.
"Good. Did you find what we needed?"
"Yeah, I got the milk you wanted."
"You mean the bread?" Caleb asked sounding suspicious.
"Uh, yeah, the bread. That's what I meant. Sorry, I just passed by a milk vendor and it distracted me. But I definitely have the bread. With me. Right now," Flynn fumbled.
"Yeah you're being super weird and are most likely up to something but I really don't want to know so just hurry back, alright," Caleb replied.
"Yes, Master," Flynn said before switching off his comm.
Iyla raised an eyebrow at him. "Very smooth," she sassed. "I got distracted by the milk vendor," she mocked.
"Shove it, Kenobi," he grumbled.
"You know you never did buy any bread, right?" Iyla pointed out with a smirk.
"Kriff!" he groaned before running back to the bakery cart while Iyla laughed and followed behind.
Once the bread was bought and they double checked that Iyla still had the tea, the teens hurried back to the temple with their purchases not wanting to take too long and make their Masters even more suspicious.
They held hands all the way to the temple steps then let go once they started up the stairs and walked in the doors. Before going their separate ways back to their quarters, they ducked behind a large pillar and shared one more secret kiss, both reluctant to separate and let each other go. Eventually Iyla pulled back and ran a hand through Flynn's ridiculously shaggy hair, smiling fondly at him. Flynn gave her a crooked grin back and rubbed her cheek with his thumb. He leaned down and pressed his lips to her temple then stepped back and let her pull away from him. Before leaving the safety of the pillar, Iyla looked back at him and gave him a cheeky wink to which he snorted and rolled his eyes. He watched her leave and waited a moment before stepping out as well only to run right into her.
"What the-" he started to say then looked up and sucked in a breath.
His Master and Master Tano were standing right in front of them with their arms crossed and stern looks on their faces. Iyla seemed frozen in place barely breathing. Flynn stood silently, flicking his eyes between the two Masters and Iyla nervously.
"Master…?" Flynn asked when he finally found his voice.
"Flynn," Caleb said coldly.
"I think you both have some explaining to do," Ahsoka spoke up.
Flynn swallowed thickly and nodded. He looked to his right and saw Iyla still frozen. She was finally breathing, but it was harsh and stilted. He could feel her anxiety rising to alarming levels and he started to grow concerned. One look at his Master showed that Caleb noticed as well and was looking worriedly at Ahsoka.
"Iyla," Ahsoka said approaching her carefully. "Hey, eyes on me, kiddo. Focus on me. Copy my breaths."
Ahsoka slowed down her breathing and looked down to make sure Iyla's eyes were focused on her and that she was copying her movements. She didn't seem too concerned as she calmly helped Iyla settle down and regulate her breathing, the two of them appearing to have a conversation through their training bond. Panic attacks weren't anything new for the young Kenobi and Ahsoka had first witnessed one when Iyla was only 4-years-old. She'd had a lot of practice and experience calming the girl down over the years. It was practically second nature now.
Iyla got herself under control easily before opening her eyes, self-consciously straightening her posture, and holding her head high in order to save face in front of the two Masters and Flynn. She blushed a bit and looked apologetic.
"I didn't mean to cause you so much distress, Padawan," Ahsoka said. "However, we do need to talk. And this is very serious, I'm afraid."
"Yes, Master," Iyla replied. "I understand. I was just startled. Sorry."
"No apology needed, Iyla. We shouldn't have surprised you like this," Caleb replied. "We just needed to catch you both before you walked in on an even tenser situation."
"Like what?" Flynn asked apprehensively.
"Seems you two were spotted in the market today," he answered.
Both teens' eyes widened.
"Rex and Cody came storming in with the rest of the vode raving about how they saw you two kissing and holding hands," Ahsoka said.
"Oh Force," Flynn said. "They're actually going to kill me, aren't they?"
"Relax, Padawan. I'm sure they'll calm down," Caleb tried to reassure him.
"Master, they have blasters! And they're perfect shots! I've seen them use them. I'm so dead!"
"Listen," Ahsoka said. "Caleb and I are going to come and do our best to not let things get carried away. We'll be there for you both. Don't worry."
"They told Papa didn't they?" Iyla asked looking dejected.
"Yes," Ahsoka replied. "He's waiting for you in your quarters."
Iyla sighed deeply and nodded her head in acceptance. "Alright. Let's go."
"It'll be alright, kiddo," Ahsoka said trying to sound positive and reassuring.
"Thanks for trying, Soka. But I have a very bad feeling about this," Iyla said.
Ahsoka didn't voice it aloud but she wholeheartedly agreed with her sentiment.
Iyla and Flynn walked the Kenobi quarters with all the somberness of prisoners walking to the gallows. They knew they were guilty and that they'd be sentenced but they couldn't find it in themselves to be remorseful. They didn't regret it and they'd defend their actions until the death, which could be quite literal in Flynn's mind.
As soon as they entered the room they were hit with waves of anger and disappointment and they immediately tensed up. Two lone chairs sat in the middle of the living room while Obi-Wan and Anakin stood in front and the vode formed a semi-circle around them. Ahsoka and Caleb came to stand to the right of the two fuming Masters and gave their Padawans one last comforting look before indicating for Obi-Wan to begin.
"Sit," Obi-Wan ordered, gesturing to the two chairs.
Flynn hurried to comply while Iyla stopped to glare at her father before taking her seat as well. Even though Iyla was nervous and apprehensive, she decided to get through it in her usual fashion, by being sassy, stubborn, and sarcastic.
"I'm sure you both know why you're here," Obi-Wan said.
Iyla leaned back in her chair and crossed her arms. "Aren't you going to read us our rights?" she sassed.
"This is not a court room."
"Could've fooled me," Iyla muttered.
"Drop the sass, Iyla Satine. I am not in the mood," Obi-Wan scolded.
Iyla closed her mouth but didn't apologize.
"Now, Obi-Wan and I were given some very interesting information from the troopers that upset us both greatly," Anakin spoke up. "Apparently you two were seen together in the markets engaged in inappropriate behavior."
Iyla snorted. "Just call it what it is, Uncle Anakin. Flynn and I were making out," she smirked.
Both Obi-Wan and Anakin flinched. "Fine, they saw you two making out in an alley in the market," he replied.
"Why were they watching us?" Iyla asked. "Did you recruit them as spies, like Soka did with Luke and Leia?"
"No, I saw you two when I was picking out some meilooruns," Waxer answered.
"We were going to say hi before you two started sucking each other's faces off," Boil said.
Flynn snorted at the visual but quieted when Caleb gave him a disapproving glare.
"Then you decided to come here and tell on us?" Iyla asked with a scowl. "Reporting to your generals like always."
A ripple of hurt flowed through the vode and Iyla winced.
"That's uncalled for," Cody said icily.
Iyla bit her lip and looked apologetic. "Sorry," she said. "That was rude."
Cody's eyes softened but she could tell he and the rest of the vode were still hurt by her words. She definitely owed them a better apology later on.
"You're already on thin ice, young one. I'd watch my tone if I were you," Obi-Wan said.
She stared at him silently and didn't reply.
"Now, as Anakin said, you were spotted in the markets in a compromising position and you both lied to your Masters about what you were doing this afternoon," Obi-Wan continued.
"Well, actually, Master Kenobi," Flynn spoke up. "We told our Masters we were going to the markets and we did. We even bought the items we went there for," he said indicating to the bread and bag of tea on the floor by their chairs.
"You weren't completely honest though, were you, Flynn?" Obi-Wan asked.
"You neglected to mention that you'd be going with Iyla," Caleb said. "That's lying, Padawan."
"More like omitting, Master," Flynn tried to defend.
"Flynn…" Caleb warned.
Flynn backed down and ducked his head.
"You both lied to Caleb, you lied to Ahsoka, and you lied to me," Obi-Wan said.
"We didn't lie to you, Papa," Iyla replied.
Obi-Wan looked at her shocked. "Yes you did," he said.
"Not really," Iyla shrugged.
"Not really?" Obi-Wan exclaimed. "Not really? You sat right here in this very room and promised me that you would end this relationship and only be friends in public."
Iyla smirked a bit and side-eyed Flynn. He glanced back at her warily.
"I promised we'd be friends in public. I never promised anything about what we'd be in private."
Obi-Wan's eyes narrowed and his fists clenched. "That is not what I meant by that and you know it."
"But that's what you said and that's what I promised," Iyla said stubbornly.
"What an insolent and deceitful thing to do. I'm shocked and deeply disappointed in you, Iyla Satine," Obi-Wan said with a hint of sadness to his voice.
"I wouldn't have had to be deceitful if you hadn't tried to control my life."
"I am your father. I can control what I want."
"No you can't."
"Yes, I can."
"You can't and Flynn and I will continue to see each other whether you like it or not," Iyla said defiantly.
"You will do no such thing," Obi-Wan countered looking furious.
"Or what?" Iyla asked challengingly, eyes narrowed.
Obi-Wan stared back at her with a simmering expression as he met her defiant look. "Or you two won't be friends anymore," he stated simply.
A look of pure outrage flashed across Iyla's face and she leapt to her feet in shock. Flynn jumped up right next to her and looked at Caleb in alarm.
"What? That's not fair!" Iyla shouted.
"Master?" Flynn asked.
"You lied, deceived, and disobeyed. You have shown you don't care about listening to Masters or any adults who know what's best for you," Obi-Wan replied.
"We are old enough to know what is best for ourselves," Iyla argued.
"No, you are not. You are both too young to be in this type of situation. Too young to be in a relationship."
"Vheh'ad osik!" Iyla growled.
"Language!" Obi-Wan and the vode all scolded at the same time.
"It is bullshit and you know it! This is just a classic example of a 'do as I say, not as I do' situation."
"Oh, really, how?"
"Grandpa Qui told me that you and Mama were around my age when you first met and fell in love."
"That's irrelevant," Obi-Wan scoffed. "It was as completely different situation."
"Oh, ok. So if Flynn and I were to go to a hostile planet and find ourselves being hunted while we run for our lives, living hand to mouth, never knowing what the next day will bring…would it be ok then?" Iyla asked with a sassy eyebrow raise and head tilt.
Obi-Wan's jaw clenched and he inhaled and exhaled deeply. "No, it wouldn't."
"So the rules only apply to you?"
"Different rules, different situation. Different people. This time I'm in charge and I am making decisions based on trust."
"Trust? You don't trust us? Me? Flynn? You've all known Flynn since he was 4-years-old! How can you not trust him?" Iyla asked looking around the room.
"I trust Flynn. It's his teenage hormones I don't trust," Obi-Wan replied.
"Because you did such a good job containing your teenage hormones around Mama."
"I didn't. Which is why I don't trust Flynn to either."
"Flynn would never hurt me. You would know that if you bothered to take your head out of your shebs once in a while!"
"For the last time, Iyla Satine, watch your language!" Obi-Wan scolded raising his voice.
"I'm not trying to interfere but I would like to point out the hypocrisy flying around right now," Flynn spoke up. "Master, you definitely have a thing for Hera and Master Skywalker was married when he was barely older than we are. And as Iyla pointed out, Master Kenobi had relations with the Duchess at our age too. How can it be ok for you but not for us?"
"Flynn! Hera and I aren't together," Caleb said firmly despite the redness of his ears.
"Sure thing, honey," Flynn replied.
"Hey! You-"
"Master Dume is an adult and old enough to make his own decisions about his personal life," Obi-Wan countered.
"And I was legally an adult when I got married," Anakin pointed out.
"Iyla and I are old enough to know what we want and to decide for ourselves, too. You can't control everything we do. We aren't children," Flynn insisted.
"Yes, you are! You are children and we are the adults. We make the decisions and we tell you what to do," Obi-Wan said.
"Why can't you just trust us?" Iyla asked.
"The sneaking around and willfully defying orders negates any trust that existed. You two can no longer be friends since you clearly can't control yourselves. That's the decision and that's final."
"You can't do that!" Iyla shouted.
"Yes. I. Can."
Iyla shot him a murderous look and stared him down. Obi-Wan was struck by the resemblance to Satine and the stubborn defiance he often saw in her eyes as well. It always impressed him and intimidated him when he saw it in Satine, but in Iyla it only angered him. He met her glare with one of his own.
"I am your father and I am in charge. I helped make you therefore I will decide what is best."
Iyla scoffed and rolled her eyes. "Not like you did much," she muttered.
Anakin choked on air and a few of the vode coughed harshly. The room fell silent as Ahsoka and Caleb side-eyed each other anxiously and Flynn looked at Iyla with wide eyes.
Obi-Wan's lip curled and he was clearly trying to rein in his emotions. "What did you just say?" he asked in a dangerously calm voice.
"I said; it's not like you did much. All you did was fool around and get-"
"If you have any self-preservation in you, child, you will stop right there," Obi-Wan growled through his teeth.
Iyla closed her mouth and let out a shaky breath, practically vibrating in anger.
"Now, my order stands. You are not allowed to see Flynn anymore. Not even as friends. I will not have you two finding excuses to fool around in secret anymore."
"You'd know all about secret affairs wouldn't you, Papa? But of course it's rules for thee but not for me."
"I will NOT standby and watch you make the same mistakes I did!" Obi-Wan said loudly.
Suddenly it felt as if the air had been sucked out of the room. No one dared to breathe.
Iyla flinched and looked as if she'd been slapped. "Mistake?" she asked. "You think that creating me was a…mistake?"
Obi-Wan's eyes widened and he was struck speechless by his own words for a second. "Iyla…no. No, I didn't mean-"
"Then what did you mean?"
"I mean that…I just meant…I…" he scrambled to explain himself.
Anakin saw his Master floundering and sensed his panic, fear, and self-consciousness through their bond. The last thing Obi-Wan needed was an audience right now. To be on display as he tried to gather his thoughts and get himself together. This was a family matter and no one else's business but his own.
"We should go," he spoke up. "Rex, why don't you and the others come over to my place? We'd love to have you."
"Yes, General," Rex replied while the rest of the vode nodded mutely, all looking anxious to get out of the tense room as fast as possible.
Caleb stepped forward and put a hand on Flynn's tight shoulders. "Come, Padawan," he said, guiding him out of the living room. Flynn kept looking back at Iyla in worry and Caleb sent him reassurance and peace through their bond as he turned his face to look forward and keep walking.
Ahsoka stood and looked anxiously between the two Kenobis. She opened her mouth to say something but closed it quickly as she couldn't think of anything to say. Instead she turned around and slipped out of the room quietly.
Obi-Wan and Iyla were left alone still staring at each other as the room buzzed with ill-contained emotions.
"What did you mean?" Iyla repeated.
"I meant that Satine and I shouldn't have given in to our desires in such a way. It went against my loyalty to the Code and I shouldn't have let my emotions get the best of me," Obi-Wan answered.
"So you shouldn't have done the very thing that brought me into existence?" Iyla asked. "You regret it, don't you? You regret that night and your loss of control because it led to a mistake that you're stuck dealing with right now."
"No, that's not what I said," Obi-Wan said desperately. "I don't regret it. And you aren't a mistake. I just meant that actions have consequences. You can't let your desires rule your decisions or you'll end up in a life changing situation because you didn't think things through first. Satine and I didn't think about all the possibilities and outcomes of that night. We didn't ask for…didn't plan…" Obi-Wan was stumbling over his words again trying to explain how he didn't regret creating Iyla or that his and Satine's union resulted in her, but that acting on desires alone is dangerous and reckless. "Ugh, I'm not explaining this very well!" he growled in frustration.
"No, I understand. You didn't ask for me. You didn't plan on me. And now you have to live with the consequences. Well, I'm sorry for ruining your plans. I'm sorry you're stuck with the consequence that you never wanted in the first place."
"I never said I didn't want you. You're putting words in my mouth, dear."
"I wouldn't need to put words in your mouth if you would actually say something reasonable."
"I'm trying to!"
"Did you ever really want me? Or did you just feel bad for me? Was I an obligation you had to deal with to soothe your guilty conscience? And then you were stuck with me whether you liked it or not?"
"Of course not, Iyla! I've always wanted you," Obi-Wan said pleading with her to listen to him and believe him.
But Iyla wasn't listening and she didn't believe him. Her old, long buried, and thought to be long gone, insecurities were surfacing again. The inadequacy, the questioning of her worth, the feelings of being unwanted, the fear of being resented, were all starting to rear their heads again and settling like a weight in her stomach. A lump formed in her throat and her eyes burned with the effort to hold back angry and heart-broken tears.
"Well, you don't need to worry about being stuck with me anymore," she said shakily.
"Wh-What do you mean?" Obi-Wan asked in alarm.
"I'm going to move into Soka's quarters full time. I should have done it a long time ago but I didn't want to leave you completely. But now that I know how you really feel, I think it's for the best. Wouldn't want to leave you with a mistake you never asked for," she spat out.
Obi-Wan looked horrorstruck. "Darling…please, let me explain," he said desperately.
Iyla took a shaky breath and swiped at her wet eyes. "I'll have Soka come by and get the rest of my things. I don't want to bug you anymore."
"Iyla, don't! Please, listen!"
"Goodbye, Father," she said flatly
"No, stop! Iyla! I can't…"
But the girl had already run out the door, shoulders shaking and cloak pulled tight around her.
"Lose you," he finished brokenly.
Obi-Wan stood silently in the middle of the empty room as coldness settled around him, his uneven breaths the only sound. Suddenly he lashed out, kicking the leg of the chair next to him and taking satisfaction in the cracking sound of the splintered wood. He brought his hands to his face and let out a small scream of frustration that gave way to a choked cry as he sank to the floor against the wall, head hanging and hands fisted in his hair. It was this same position that Anakin found him in hours later, eyes red and dazed, a broken chair lying at his feet.
"She called me 'father,'" Obi-Wan whispered dejectedly. "She called me father and she jus'…left."
"It's alright, Obi-Wan," Anakin soothed.
"She's…gone. I was st'pid an' I lost her…"
"You didn't lose her. She's still in the temple and she's still your daughter. She'll come back. You both just need time to cool off," Qui-Gon said.
The Force Ghost had appeared shortly after Obi-Wan's emotional outburst and had been sitting with him silently until Anakin had come in. Obi-Wan didn't seem to notice his former Master's presence and didn't make any effort to acknowledge him. But Qui-Gon sat and comforted him all the same.
"It's been hours, M'ster. I haven't heard from 'Soka or…or any'ne else 'n I can't feel her or hear her. Th'Force is…fuzzy," Obi-Wan slurred as he took a swig of a bottle of something Qui-Gon guessed wasn't muja juice.
"Maybe if you'd stop drinking yourself into a stupor, the Force would be clearer," Qui-Gon chided.
"Master!" Anakin huffed in annoyance. "I thought I put that away! How'd you get it back?"
"Floated it," Obi-Wan shrugged. "You weren't payin' 'ttention, A'kin. Always gotta pay 'ttention," he mumbled waving his finger at his former Padawan.
Anakin stared back at him unimpressed. "I'd lecture you about frivolous use of the Force but it wouldn't be any fun if you're too drunk to remember it. I'll do it later. When you're miserably hung over."
"Brat," Obi-Wan grumbled.
Qui-Gon sighed and shook his head at them. "Obi-Wan, focus. You want Iyla back, right?"
"Course! More'n anything," he replied seriously even as he started to sway and lean heavily against Anakin.
"Good. Then we need to come up with a way to fix this, alright?"
"'Kay. Le's go," Obi-Wan answered. "F'llow me."
"Master, you aren't doing anything," Anakin replied rolling his eyes.
"I'm not standin'?" Obi-Wan asked looking genuinely puzzled.
Qui-Gon brought a hand up to his face. "I think we'll have to leave this for tomorrow," he sighed.
"I agree," Anakin said. He Force moved the bottle to the table to dispose of later and knelt down to throw his Master's arm over his shoulder. "Come on, Master. Bedtime."
Obi-Wan clumsily got to his feet and groaned as his head spun. He leaned heavily against Anakin and his head lolled against the younger man's shoulder.
"Thanks, A'kin. You're a good br'ther," Obi-Wan slurred as he brought an uncooperative hand up to pat Anakin's cheek but slapped his forehead instead.
Anakin chuckled and shook his head fondly. "You're welcome, Obi-Wan. You're a good brother too. But now it's time for all good brothers to sleep, or pass out in your case."
"'Kay," Obi-Wan answered. He craned his head back to look at Qui-Gon questioningly. "You comin' M'ster?"
Qui-Gon's lip twitched in amusement and he straightened up to follow the pair. "Of course, Padawan," he said affectionately.
Obi-Wan gave him a dopey lopsided smile and let Anakin lead him to his room.
Three days later his wonderfully supportive and sympathetic fellow Council members were still teasing him about being terribly hung over during the meeting the morning after he decided to drown his sorrows in Correllian brandy. He didn't care what Quinlan said, that stuff was vile. It was vile going down and it was vile coming back up. Which it did. Right in the middle of Master Tiin's monologue about an upcoming senate vote regarding trade routes. The Iktotchi Master looked alarmed and offended and Obi-Wan groaned in humiliation and apologized profusely. He didn't think he'd ever live it down. Especially once Anakin found out.
Although the situation itself was humorous, the circumstances that led to his hangover were not. He'd yet to talk to Iyla or even see her and he'd barely spoken to Ahsoka. Just enough to be reassured that Iyla was alright and being taken care of but that she didn't want to see him. This led to a massive 'sulk session' as Anakin liked to call it. Obi-Wan was broody and miserable and everyone around him was ready to hit him upside the head to knock some sense into the stubborn and insufferable Jedi.
"Swallow your pride and go to her," Kit said when he got tired of watching Obi-Wan push around his food during lunch.
"It's not about pride, Kit," Obi-Wan replied. "She doesn't want to see me. She shouldn't want to see me. I don't deserve her attention."
"Ok, then swallow your guilt and put on your big boy pants," Depa said.
Obi-Wan shot her a scathing look.
"Buck up and apologize. Grovel and beg if you have to," Mace spoke up.
"If you wait until either of you are ready to talk, you'll be waiting for ages, my friend," Plo added in his deep calming voice.
Obi-Wan sighed in agreement then winced when a stick hit his shins. He looked up in annoyance at his great grandmaster who had stopped by their table.
"Continue to feel sorry for yourself, you will not. Act like a Jedi Master you will. Admit your wrongs and reconcile, you need to," Yoda scolded with a huff.
Obi-Wan glared at him and rubbed his leg.
"Finish your lunch, you will, Obi-Wan. Then find young Iyla and apologize. Waiting I will be, for your return. Tea in my quarters we will have. Then meditate we all will. Understand, do you?"
"Yes, Master," Obi-Wan replied, his voice comically close to a whine and his face set in an almost-pout.
Kit, Plo, Mace, and Depa all snickered at their young friend being chided for sulking and told to eat his lunch like a youngling. Yoda's eyes snapped to them and he waved his stick dangerously.
"Have duties to attend to, do you not?" he snapped. "Back to work, you should go, hmm?"
The four Masters nodded quickly and apologized before jumping up and scurrying off to return to their duties. Yoda watched them with a satisfied smirk then walked off to go terrorize some other unfortunate soul. Cheeky little troll, Obi-Wan thought as he finished his food, not wanting to give Yoda an excuse to hit him again.
Iyla was pretty sure she'd found the most secluded spot in the entire temple. Which was good. It was exactly what she wanted. To be alone. Alone with her thoughts, alone with the Force, and alone with her chaotic emotions. Emotions that she'd come to this very spot to work through. Meditation had failed, talking with her Master had failed, and shock of all shocks, ignoring them and bottling them up had failed. The past three days she'd felt herself adrift and lost and she was sick of it.
She had to work through her emotions in another way. And there were a lot of emotions to confront. Emotions made even more conflicting and confusing because of a conversation with Ahsoka that morning when she'd been making her tea. Something she knew she'd need in order to dive into the complicated work of confronting emotions. Of course Iyla was a tea lover. She'd have never survived in the Kenobi quarters without being passionate about tea.
While letting the tea steep she rummaged in the cabinets for her favorite spice cubes. They were a must-have for all morning tea sessions. She had to hold back a whine when she saw the empty container of spice cubes sitting on the cupboard shelf. Of course they were gone.
"Soka!" she called from the kitchen.
"Yes?"
"We're out of spice cubes. Did you happen to get anymore at the markets?"
"More what?" Ahsoka asked coming out of her room.
"Spice cubes. For my tea. I'm all out," Iyla said handing the container to her Master.
Ahsoka studied the container for a moment. "I've never bought these," she said looking puzzled.
"But we always have them. How can we have them if you never buy them?"
"Oh, wait! These are probably part of the care package Master Obi-Wan brings over every month," Ahsoka replied.
"Care package?" Iyla asked looking confused.
"Yeah, he brings over a bag of certain items you like that he knows I'll probably never be able to find. Like these spice cubes, that specific brand of muja jam you prefer, and those chocolate fudge sticks you snack on when you're on your cycle."
"Papa buys that stuff? I thought he just told you what I liked and you got them for me."
"I could, but he said he doesn't mind doing it. It helps him feel better knowing that you're happy and comfortable here. He said if he has to give you up to me for most of the month then I could at least let him indulge in buying you your favorite comfort foods."
Ahsoka watched as Iyla's eyebrows furrowed, her eyes shifting back and forth as if having an internal battle between her thoughts and emotions.
"Oh," was all she said.
"Should I tell him we need more?" Ahsoka asked hesitantly. Obi-Wan was still very much a touchy subject.
"No…no, it's ok. I'm just going to go meditate for a bit. I have a lot to think about. I'll…uh…I'll see you later, Master."
Ahsoka nodded in understanding and watched as Iyla practically flew out of the room taking her swirling emotions with her. The Togrutan Master shook her head and rolled her eyes. Kenobis.
That had been hours ago. Iyla had been so flustered that she bolted right to the gardens and threw herself into the Force. But she kept getting distracted. First with thoughts of her abandoned morning tea, then with questions about her Papa's care packages, then by a meddlesome little grandmaster who threatened her with his stick because "holding back you are," and "opened up fully you needed to be." She didn't bother countering his words with an "I'm trying" because she wasn't about to give him the satisfaction of saying his favorite phrase in the galaxy. Instead she'd huffed and asked for his advice. She needed to talk to someone who understood. Someone who knew her Papa better than she did. Who knew first hand what it was like to deal with him. To want to throttle him but also love him deeply. Someone that she'd only spoken to in dreams and one miraculous night when she was four. She needed to talk to her Mama.
Instead of scoffing and writing it off as impossible, Master Yoda had told her to find a secluded spot and fully open herself up to the Force while concentrating on Satine and focusing her signature on her spirit. Only then would she be able to communicate with her. Iyla had been skeptical and voiced her doubts about being able to have a real conversation with her mother and talk with her. Yoda had simply smiled and given her a knowing look.
"Communicate in many ways, beings do. Talking with someone the only way is not. Listen. Watch. And feel through the Force," he stated, as if it were as simple as an elementary math equation then walked away.
Iyla frowned and cocked her head in thought then shrugged and decided to try it. Which is how she ended up sitting in a meditation pose on the dirty rocky floor of the southern tower trying with all her might to communicate with Satine. She was just about to give up and retreat back to her room when she felt a soft wisp of air settle around her and gentle warmth encircle her. Her Mama was here.
"Mama?" she whispered.
There was no face or be seen, just a quiet "cyar'ika" spoken from next to her. Iyla nearly opened her eyes to see if she could possibly be a ghost sitting next to her but a faint pressure on her eye lids and a whisper of "no" kept them firmly closed.
"Mama, I'm…confused. I…I need help," Iyla said aloud. She knew she sounded crazy, talking to nothing, but seeing as she was alone, she didn't care much.
Her statement was met with a tug of encouragement on her Force signature to retreat further in and open up her feelings.
"I…Papa and I had a fight. We both hurt each other and I don't know what to do. I've tried everything."
She could practically feel the Force presence raising an eyebrow at her and giving her a knowing look.
"Ok, so not everything. I haven't talked to him yet. But I can't Mama! He's just so…so…"
"Atin?" she heard.
"Yes! Stubborn and-"
"Self-righteous? Haughty? Proud? Hard-headed?"
"Infuriating!" Iyla growled. "He's so infuriating!"
A soft chuckle met her words. "Di'kut. Or'dinii. Ridiculous man," Satine replied fondly.
"He said I was a mistake," Iyla whispered brokenly.
She felt a gentle nudge of rebuke.
"Ok, so he didn't actually say that. Not really. But he meant it. He implied it."
Silence.
"He did! He talked about consequences and mistakes and getting things you never asked for. And I know he meant me. I felt it. He never wanted me. He resents me and feels sorry for me. I doubt he even really cares about me," Iyla said sadly.
A flash of anger and frustration brushed against her Force signature and she felt a sharp touch to the back of her head. Did her mother just smack her through the Force?
"Stop," the voice commanded. "Look, listen."
Iyla lowered her eyes in apology and waited for Satine to continue. There was no more talking though, only flashes of scenes in her mind.
Obi-Wan talking with Qui-Gon, fraught with doubt and worry about being a good father. Him staying up late into the night with her after she had a nightmare, watching over her as she slept. Giving up his favorite breakfast pastry after she'd had a rough morning and knew she needed a pick me up. Sitting vigil by her bed in the Halls after she'd broken her arm. Holding her as she shivered in her sleep and moaned during her bout of fever pox. Staunchly defending and sticking up for her after she was accused of cheating in her Intergalactic Cultures class. The look of pride on his face when she came in first in her Initiate trials. Carrying her to bed after she fell asleep at her desk doing homework. Bringing care packages to Ahsoka. Watering her plants when she wasn't home. Head kisses, hair strokes, cheek caresses. Loving smiles, affectionate looks, exasperated but fond chuckles. Selfless care. Protectiveness. Devotion. Pure and unconditional love.
The onslaught of images, scenes, and emotions nearly bowled Iyla over and she resurfaced from the overwhelming feelings with a gasp. Still deep in the Force and still surrounded by her mother's presence she sat and worked to get her shaky breaths under control. She felt a brush against her face as a tear was wiped from her cheek.
"Maddening conundrum of a man. The paradox of a Kenobi."
Iyla chuckled wetly and nodded in agreement. "How did you deal with him?" she asked.
Satine simply laughed. "Patience. Grace. Understanding."
"Easier said than done," Iyla snorted.
"Keep him humble. Love him back."
"I do. Love him. It's just hard sometimes."
"Real love often is."
Iyla sighed heavily.
"Worth it," Satine's voice whispered.
"Yes. Worth it," Iyla smiled.
"Every moment," Obi-Wan's voice said from behind her.
Iyla instinctively turned toward him but was reluctant to pull out of her trance. The gentle nudging of her mother though caused her to start to retreat, Satine's encouraging and reassuring presence holding on to her until the last second.
"Thank you for being there for me, Mama," Iyla whispered through the Force. She was met with an affectionate touch on her cheek and a "darasuum, ner nau'ika."
Iyla opened her eyes and turned to look at Obi-Wan who was lingering in the archway awkwardly, not wanting to intrude.
"Are you two conspiring against me?" he asked with a smirk.
"Just giving me advice on how to deal with such an infuriating di'kut," Iyla replied.
"I'm sure she was helpful," he said with an eyeroll. "She'd know all about being infuriating."
"Watch it, she'll smack you," Iyla warned.
Obi-Wan looked skeptical but wisely didn't say anything else.
"Papa..." Iyla began.
Obi-Wan's eyes lit up at the simple word. "I'm Papa again?" he asked with a hopeful smile.
"You're always Papa."
"Not lately. I've been 'father' for a few days now."
Iyla looked away from him. "Yeah, I was pretty mad."
"Was?"
"Still am," she admitted.
"Iyla, darling, we need to talk," Obi-Wan said. "I know you don't want to and I don't deserve your forgiveness but-"
"It's ok, Papa. I'll listen."
Obi-Wan looked relieved and settled down next to her on the floor. "First of all, you, my dear Iyla Satine, are not a mistake. Or an unfortunate consequence. I don't regret making you or finding you. I don't pity you or feel obligated to you. And I have never and will never not want you," he said softly.
Iyla bit her lip and looked up at him, insecurity and doubt showing in her eyes.
"There is not a day that goes by where I don't thank the Force and Satine for giving you to me. You are my light and my life. My precious treasure. Please, understand that."
"I do," Iyla replied. "Mama showed me."
Obi-Wan smiled and took her hand. "Good. Because I failed to show you and tell you. I was foolish and prideful. I should have trusted you and listened to you. And I'm so terribly sorry."
"It's alright, Papa. I forgive you. And I'm sorry too. I said some horrible things. I was disrespectful and rude. And my mouth was filthy," she said with a blush.
"I forgive you as well. Though I do want to know where you learned all those Mando'a swear words. I'm thinking a certain group of troopers and a red-haired Mandalorian are to blame."
"At least I held back the Huttese swears. Uncle Anakin taught me some pretty colorful ones."
"Typical," Obi-Wan sighed.
Iyla laughed then looked at him seriously. "I understand why you were upset. About me and Flynn. I know you were just concerned."
"I only wanted to keep you safe. And keep you my little one for a little bit longer. I thought I could do that by controlling you, but I was stupid to think that. You're smart and wise and perfectly capable of making your own decisions. And as much as I don't want to admit it, you are growing up and becoming a strong and independent young woman. And I can either deny that and try to stop it, or embrace it and encourage it."
"I'll always be your little one, Papa. But I am growing up and I am capable. I still want you and need you, but I also need to know you trust me and will give me freedom."
"I do and I will. And you can continue to see Flynn. I was wrong to take that away from you. I had no right. I can't guarantee I'll like it or be ok with it, but I won't interfere anymore.
"You were just worried and protective. Because you love me."
"I do, my little light. So much," Obi-Wan said fiercely as he set a hand on her shoulder.
"I promise Flynn and I will be careful, Papa. And we won't…you know…" she said awkwardly. "We're not ready for that. At all. We have feelings for each other but it's still very new and confusing. Stupid teenage hormones," Iyla said with a huff.
Obi-Wan laughed. "I'd like to say it gets less confusing but…"
She sighed in frustration and crossed her arms in a pout.
"Don't let Master Yoda see that face. He whacked me in the shins for it earlier."
Iyla bit her lip to hold back her laughter but couldn't contain it when she saw her father's annoyed scowl. "Insolent little troll," she chuckled.
"Indeed," Obi-Wan agreed.
"Papa?"
"Yes, love?"
"Can I…would you mind if…I want to come home. To be like it was before. That is, if you'll still have me," she said shyly.
"I'd love nothing more," he replied. "I miss tripping over your cloaks in the morning."
"Those are your cloaks, Papa," she said rolling her eyes.
"Mine? Never," he teased.
Iyla shook her head in exasperation and stood up. "Come on. I've been here for hours and I ran out of spice cubes so I missed my morning tea. I need caffeine and food and I need it now," she said.
"Ah, well, about that," Obi-Wan said standing up as well. "Master Yoda has ordered us to have tea and shared meditation in his quarters."
"What?! Papaaaa," Iyla whined.
"No, none of that," he said. "If I have to suffer then so do you."
"But his tea is disgusting! And I just meditated for like a million hours."
"Would you rather be hit with his stick?"
"No," Iyla grumbled.
"Then to Master Yoda's quarters we go."
"Don't know why you couldn't have made some excuse."
"Because he's terrifying. And my great grandmaster. He's also part of your lineage as well, little one."
"Knew I shouldn't have taken Soka as my Master," Iyla muttered.
"You think anyone else could have dealt with you? You're a Kenobi-Kryze, darling. It takes a special person to teach such a stubborn and mischievous child."
"I learned from the best," Iyla said with a smirk and a wink.
"Brat," Obi-Wan said affectionately.
"But you love me," she smiled sweetly, flashing her big blue eyes at him.
"That I do. Force, help me," he sighed dramatically.
Iyla laughed and leaned against him as they walked, the Force warm and bright around them. There was still more forgiveness and understanding to be had, but together, and with the help of their ever-present guardian angel, they'd get there.
Hope you all enjoyed this chapter! As always, thanks for reading, reviewing, following, and favoriting! You are all amazing!
I'm not sure what the next chapter will be about, honestly. Possibly an explanation of the whole "Caleb saved Iyla from being stuck in a tree" thing because it sounds fun to write. Or maybe something different. Who knows. I guess we'll see what I come up with, lol.
Mando'a translations:
vod/vode-brother/brothers
vod'ika-little sister
ad'ike-little ones
Haar'chak-damn it
Vheh'ad osik-bull shit (lit. animal dung)
shebs-butt/ass
cyar'ika-sweetheart/darling
atin-stubborn
di'kut-idiot
or'dinii-fool/moron
darasuum, ner nau'ika-forever, my little light