This took longer than expected, sorry! My roommate got married last week and I was a bridesmaid so that meant all kinds of duties and errands and such. Not including the bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner, day of craziness and so forth. I took a few days to recover then took my 7-year-old nephew to Disneyland and needed another day to recover lol. But I finally managed to get it written and edited and here it is for your reading pleasure!

This chapter has 3 firsts for teenage Iyla: first dance, first (legal) driving lesson, and first major mission injury. I loved putting Obi-Wan in these situations and seeing how he reacted even if it was badly. Poor Papa is still learning as well. It just ain't easy being an overprotective anxious father of a stubborn, trouble-magnet, sassy teenager.

Chapter 16: The First Time Part 2

Iyla tilted her head side to side as she surveyed herself in the mirror. She brought a hand up to reverently touch the weaves and twists in her long hair and ran her fingers through the hanging waves. Her long dress brushed the floor as she swished it back and forth a few times then twirled a bit to admire the way it fanned out around her.

It was the night of the annual Padawan Yule Party and Iyla was actually able to attend this time. She'd been taken as a Padawan at 13 but it was after Yule so she'd missed last year's party. Now, at 14 and officially a Jedi Padawan, she was finally able to go and was buzzing with excitement.

She smiled and curtseyed, holding out her hand to receive an invisible partner then moved her feet to the rhythm of a silent song.

Although it had wounded her pride a bit, she had asked her Papa to teach her how to dance. He made a smart remark about how he was the best one to teach her because he is the only man who is ever allowed to dance with her to which she rolled her eyes and smacked his arm. Obi-Wan was a wonderful teacher, always sure to be patient and encouraging and not wince too much when she stomped on his feet. He was also very good at it and Iyla found herself enjoying the dance and her Papa's company immensely. If all her dancing partners were like him, she felt like she could dance forever.

"Where did you learn to dance like this, Papa?" she'd asked him.

"Your mother taught me," he smiled wistfully. "When I was a Padawan and your Grandpa Qui and I were on a mission."

"The one where you fell in love with Mama?"

"Yes, the very same. I figured, anyone who can teach my clumsy feet to move smoothly was a keeper," he chuckled.

"Well, Mama was a good teacher then."

"That she was, my dear. And since she taught me and I'm teaching you, it's a bit like she's teaching you as well," he smiled.

"I like to think that too," Iyla replied smiling up at him with Satine's smile.

Obi-Wan leaned down to kiss her forehead then adjusted her arms and redirected her steps for one more dance around their quarters.

Back in front of the mirror Iyla was practicing her steps, counting under her breath, and trying to move fluidly. Despite Obi-Wan's best efforts, Iyla still wasn't the best at dancing. He reassured her though that she'd get better the more she did it and that she was doing fine for just starting out. Still, she felt frustrated and awkward and secretly hoped that she wouldn't be required to slow dance with anyone at the party. Plus, she really didn't need to master slow dancing anyway, she placated herself. It's not like she's royalty or anything.

Oh, wait.

Iyla frowned then shook her head to rid herself of the thought. That was a problem for another time.

"Are you ready, Iyla?" A voice from the door asked.

She quickly stopped her practice dancing and whipped around in embarrassment.

Padme stood there with a fond smile on her face.

"I was just…uh…" Iyla said sheepishly.

"Don't be embarrassed, sweetheart. I was the same way at your age. Are you nervous?"

Iyla looked at her shoes and shuffled her feet a bit. "Kind of. I'm not the best at dancing. Papa tried to teach me but it didn't work very well. I hope no one wants to dance with me," she chuckled.

"Well, with the way you look, I'd say there's a very slim chance of that."

Iyla shrugged self-consciously.

"She's right," Ahsoka said walking in.

"Thanks," Iyla replied with a shy smile.

"Now, are you ready? Any last minute additions?"

"Perhaps some lip color," Padme said tilting her head in thought.

"Papa doesn't allow me to wear make up."

"It's just lip color. Nothing too crazy," Ahsoka said. "Now, come here."

Iyla walked over to the two women and allowed them to put some color on her lips. With a last tie of the sash on her dress and an added pin to her hair, Iyla was off to the party with Ahsoka.

Master and Padawan walked side by side and Ahsoka reached out to squeeze Iyla's hand when she felt her nerves start to get the best of her. Iyla smiled and relaxed under Ahsoka's touch. They could hear the noise of the party from down the hall and with each step Iyla grew more and more excited. The small pit of anxiety still settled in her gut but excitement was quickly taking over.

They came to a stop right outside the door and Ahsoka grabbed Iyla by the shoulders. "It's going to be fine, kiddo. Find your friends and have fun."

Iyla nodded and followed her Master into the room. She was immediately hit with a blast of warmth, laughter, and music.

"I'll be hanging out with the chaperones," Ahsoka said pointing to the group of Masters lined up against a wall, most of the sipping from a drink. "Seek me out if you need me. Have a good time, Padawan. That's an order," she winked.

"Yes, Master," Iyla smirked.

"Iyla!" someone shouted from across the room.

Iyla saw Shona and Nari waving at her. She grinned and immediately ran over.

"You look beautiful!" Shona said. "I love your dress."

"And your hair!" Nari echoed.

"Thanks, my Auntie Padme helped me," she replied.

"Well it looks really nice," Shona smiled. "Doesn't she look nice, Flynn?" Shona asked as she smirked knowingly at the boy next to her.

Iyla hadn't even noticed he was there since he was so silent.

Flynn, who had been looking at Iyla with wide eyes and his mouth slightly open, shook himself slightly and blushed. "Uh, yeah, you look, um, really nice," he said.

Iyla gave him a weird look. "So, how does this dancing thing work? Do we wait for someone to ask us or something?"

"Only on the slow songs. But it's not as scary as it sounds. Plus, I'm sure you'll get plenty of offers," Nari replied.

"Yeah, you won't have to worry about it. Now, come on. Let's dance! This is my favorite song," Shona said pulling them all out to the floor.

The four friends laughed and bounced along to the music, all feeding off of each other's happiness and warmth. Iyla felt herself relaxing and enjoying herself in the presence of her friends.

Obi-Wan stood with his fellow council members against a far wall watching as the teenagers danced and talked around the room. His eyes were drawn to Iyla smiling widely and laughing with her friends in the middle of the dance floor. Padme and Ahsoka had done well in getting her ready for the party. She was glowing and radiant. Her hair fell perfectly around her face and the blue dress brought out her eyes. He squinted a bit and swore he saw lip color. Part of him was upset that she was wearing make up but it did look nice and it wasn't her whole face. Plus, it made her shine even more.

As he watched her dance and sway to the music, he was suddenly struck by how grown up she looked. Yes, she was growing up, obviously. She had just had her 14th lifeday after all. But most of the time it was easy for him to still see her as his little one. His precious baby who warmed his heart everyday and saved him countless times from his grief with a simple hug and an "I love you, Papa." Heck, she still called him 'Papa' for Force sake. She couldn't really be that grown up, right? But Obi-Wan knew she was growing up, despite the 'Papa' and despite his willingness to let her. Iyla was maturing and getting older and he was at a loss as to how to stop her.

His little light was becoming a woman. And a beautiful one at that. He was seeing more of Satine in her everyday and though it still hurt his heart, he found himself feeling grateful that she was becoming more like her mother, the most beautiful, kind-hearted, and amazing woman he'd ever known. Although he missed his baby, he didn't mind watching the young woman blossom and come into her own.

She was glowing, gorgeous, and full of warmth and light. His precious Iyla Satine. Flashing her mother's smile at her friends as the fast song ended. Anxiously stepping to the side while a slow song started up. Twisting her hands in her dress and playing with her long hair. Looking bright-eyed around the room. Being approached by numerous Padawan boys. Wait. What?

Obi-Wan frowned as he straightened up from his place against the wall. He watched a group of boys eyeing Iyla, giving each other playful shoves, and whispering amongst themselves. Their shy glances and smiles gave them away and Obi-Wan knew instantly what their intentions were. They were going to ask her to dance. He scowled and crossed his arms. Like hell they were.

"You saw them too?" Anakin asked coming to stand next to him.

"Yes, and they better not," he growled.

"Agreed. Little sacks of hormones," he muttered darkly. "If they lay a finger on her…" his threat trailed off as one of them finally mustered up the courage to step forward.

They watched as the boy cleared his throat and started to approach Iyla. Iyla bit her lip and gave him a shy smile, clearly anticipating his question and expecting an offer to dance. The boy opened his mouth then happened to look up at them. Anakin and Obi-Wan narrowed their eyes and crossed their arms as they glared at him. Immediately the Padawan closed his mouth and swallowed before quickly walking off to another girl on the other side of the room. The rest of the teen boys saw the two Masters' intimidating stares and abandoned their plans in a panic.

Iyla frowned and furrowed her eyebrows in confusion. She lowered her gaze to her feet then straightened up and stood tall waiting for someone else to come along.

But no one else did. There were a few times when she thought someone might ask her, but they shied away at the last moment and went for another girl instead. Iyla tried not to take it to heart and did her best to keep an optimistic and friendly smile as she stood and watched everyone else around her get pulled on to the dance floor. Both Shona and Nari had been asked to dance and even Flynn had found someone. Pretoria Orlo. A year ahead of Flynn and beautiful. Long legs, silky hair, more mature and…developed than most other Padawan girls. Of course he'd pick her. Padawan Orlo was perfect. Not that Iyla was jealous. Not at all. It made sense. Why ask a lanky and awkward 14-year-old when you can go for the gorgeous 16-year-old? Given the choice, Iyla would have picked Pretoria too.

This revelation did little to soften the blow to her pride though. She watched mournfully as the teens around her started pairing off one by one. Even the 12 and 13-year-olds had found someone to dance with. Although she'd said she hoped no one asked her to dance, she hadn't really meant it. Maybe the Force misunderstood though. That would be her luck.

When it looked like she was going to be the only one left without a partner, Iyla backed off the dance floor and settled herself at a table on the outskirts of the room. Humiliated tears threated to fall but she blinked them away with a sniffle and settled down to watch the dancing Padawans, trying her best to look indifferent and unbothered. Maybe it was for the best. She wasn't a great dancer and the person who asked her would soon figure that out and try to get away from her anyway. Maybe saving herself the humiliation was a gift from the Force.

She looked down at the dress she'd been excited to wear and found herself second guessing how good she looked in it. She didn't fill it out as well as some of the other girls filled theirs out and it was a touch too long because she had either missed or had yet to have her growth spurt. The fabric didn't cling to her form nicely and she suddenly felt like a little girl playing dress up among the real teenagers. She felt her hair and found that it had started to go frizzy from the sweat and heat in the room. She reached up to smooth it down self-consciously. No wonder no one wanted to dance with her. She was a frizzy underdeveloped kid in a room of her blossoming peers. She sighed and sat back heavily against the chair.

Ahsoka watched as countless boys eyed Iyla and smiled shyly at her. She smirked to herself. She knew her Padawan wouldn't be left without a partner. But she grew increasingly confused when no one approached her or at least abandoned their attempts. What was going on?

"Iyla hasn't been asked to dance yet?" Barriss asked as she sipped her drink. "That's odd."

"It is. I saw plenty of boys who looked interested," Ahsoka agreed.

"Maybe they got too scared? I mean, I was terrified to ask anyone when I was their age," Caleb replied.

"Perhaps but…it's almost as if they changed their mind at the last second. Like they got spooked and ran away."

"It could have something to do with the big wall of scowling Masters glaring at all of them," Cal pointed out.

Ahsoka followed his gaze and sure enough there was Obi-Wan, Anakin, Plo Koon, Kit Fisto, and Mace Windu standing with their arms crossed and glaring intimidatingly.

Ahsoka narrowed her eyes. "Unbelievable," she growled.

"That's enough to send anyone running for the hills," Caleb winced. "No wonder no one asked her."

"Those kriffing little-"

"Master?" Iyla interrupted.

Ahsoka jumped at her voice. She hadn't even realized she was there. "Padawan?" she asked. "What is it?"

"Can…can we go home?" Iyla asked. "I'm not feeling very well and um…I just…I'd like to leave, please."

"Iyla, kiddo…"

"Please, Soka. I d-don't wanna be here anymore," she whispered trying desperately to hide the break in her voice.

Ahsoka glanced at her friends who all glanced back at her knowingly. She sighed and put an arm around the girl.

"Come on, kiddo. Let's go talk," she replied steering Iyla away from the group.

The pair settled at the same table Iyla had retreated to earlier and Ahsoka gave the girl's shoulder a comforting squeeze. "Now, what is this all about?"

"I told you. I don't feel well," Iyla shrugged looking at her lap and playing with her fingers.

"Does this have anything to do with the fact that no one asked you to dance?"

"No," Iyla insisted defensively. "It has to do with the fact that everyone else is perfect except me."

"What are you talking about, Iyla?"

"There has to be something wrong with me, Soka. Why else would everyone be picked except me? Even the 12-year-olds were chosen!"

"Iyla, kiddo, there's nothing wrong with you," Ahsoka tried to reassure her.

Iyla laughed bitterly and rolled her eyes. "It makes sense that no one wants me. I mean, I've been unwanted before. I know how it feels. But I just thought that tonight, I mean, Auntie Padme did a good job making me look nice but, well, I guess one can only do so much. It's hard to make a frizzy haired, underdeveloped, awkward freak look good in a dress. I should have known. But I had hoped…I did feel beautiful and you and Auntie Padme said I was but it makes sense that you lied to make me feel better."

Ahsoka's heart broke for the girl as she looked at her dejected pose and lowered eyes. Iyla discreetly wiped her cheeks and hugged her chest as she took a shaky breath.

"Iyla, sweetie, you are beautiful," Ahsoka said putting all the conviction and truth she could into her voice. "Padme did a good job, yes, but she didn't need to do much. You could have shown up in old rags and still been just as bright and lovely as anyone here."

Iyla scoffed and looked away.

"I'm being serious, Padawan. Padme and I never lied to you. You did, and still do, look beautiful."

"Then how come no one wanted to dance with me?" Iyla asked softly.

Ahsoka's face hardened and she glared at the group of Masters still scowling and folding their arms. "I think I have some idea," she said angrily.

Iyla looked up at her tone and followed her gaze. "What do you mean?"

"Wait here, Iyla. There's something I need to do."

"Soka?"

"It's fine, kiddo. I'll be right back."

Iyla watched in confusion as Ahsoka stalked off to the men standing against the wall.

"What do you think you are doing?" Ahsoka hissed at them.

They all looked at each other in confusion.

"Chaperoning," Obi-Wan replied with a raised eyebrow.

"And making your daughter's night miserable," she said angrily.

"What are you talking about, Snips?" Anakin asked.

"What do you call this?" she asked waving a hand at their crossed arms and threatening stances.

"We're just standing and watching-"

"Cut it out, Master, you know that's not what you're doing."

"Then what, little Soka, are we doing exactly?" Plo asked.

"Pet names won't work here, Master Plo," Ahsoka scowled.

Plo's eyebrows furrowed and even from behind his mask she could tell he was scowling at her.

"All of you have been doing everything you can to make sure no one dances with Iyla."

"We were simply making sure that the wrong Padawan didn't try to make a move until the right one came along," Obi-Wan sniffed and raised his chin defiantly.

"Oh, and who is the right one? Nobody?" Ahsoka asked mirroring his raised eyebrow from earlier.

"Well…" Obi-Wan tilted his head and looked away.

"Because of you ridiculous overprotective idiots-"

"Hey, watch it Tano, we're still Councilors," Mace warned.

"Apologies, Master," Ahsoka smiled and bowed. "Because of you ridiculous overprotective dung-brains, my Padawan is asking to leave. She doesn't want to be here anymore among her 'perfect' peers while she is a…what did she say again…ah, yes 'frizzy haired awkward freak.'"

Obi-Wan looked guilty. "She said…you…you told her that's not true, right?"

"Yes, of course I did. But I shouldn't have had to tell her. She should have been confident in herself without my help. Don't you remember what it was like to be 14?"

Each Master shuddered at the memory of their teenage selves.

"Yes," Kit spoke up. "It was awful."

"Exactly. Being a teenager is awkward enough without being humiliated in front of your peers. You may have thought you were protecting Iyla from the wrong boy, but instead you just drove her further into her insecurities. You failed to protect her from herself, who, at 14, is the real danger."

"I…I never thought about it like that," Anakin admitted sheepishly.

"How do you think it made her feel to be the only one without a dance partner? That's crushing for a teenager. Being unwanted is one of Iyla's biggest insecurities and you all helped bring it back to the surface. But, 'it's ok, Soka, I've been unwanted before, I know how it feels,'" Ahsoka said.

"I never…I didn't intend to…" Obi-Wan said looking heartbroken. "I guess I went a bit overboard."

"We all did," Plo admitted contritely. "You are right, Ahsoka. Our efforts to be overprotective have done more damage than good. Iyla didn't deserve to be miserable tonight."

"Perhaps we should go. It might make it easier for everyone to relax if we do," Mace said with a smirk.

"Yes, good idea, Mace. How about Sabacc and drinks in my quarters? I'll be dealer first," Kit offered.

"You being dealer is the worst idea ever, Fisto. You cheat," Plo replied.

"I'm offended, Koon," Kit said with a hand to his chest.

Mace rolled his eyes and pushed the two squabbling Masters out of the room. Obi-Wan and Anakin were about to follow them when they saw a boy approaching Iyla's seat at the table. Both men froze and it was clear to Ahsoka that they were struggling not to glare and look intimidating again.

Flynn walked over to Iyla and sat down heavily next to her. He saw her small clutch purse in her hand. "Hey, you leaving already?" he asked curiously.

"Yeah. I don't feel like dancing anymore," she said trying to hide her sniffles.

Flynn frowned when he saw her tears. "What's wrong? Why are you upset? Who was it? Which boy do I have to punch?" he asked.

Iyla chuckled and shook her head. "It was no boy. That's the problem."

"No one asked you?" he asked looking confused.

Iyla looked away shyly and shrugged.

"Well, they're all idiots. Everyone here would be lucky to dance with you. Anyone who didn't ask clearly has dung for brains," he smiled.

Iyla looked at him with a raised eyebrow. "Oh yeah, well you didn't ask me either," she smirked.

"Yeah, exactly. Dung for brains," he teased pointing to his head.

"At least you admit it," she muttered.

Flynn glared at her playfully. "Ha ha," he replied. "But, I do have a solution for my dung brains," he said.

"Oh, really?" Iyla asked teasingly.

"Yeah," he said standing up. He cleared his throat dramatically and dipped his head. "Would you like to dance, madam?" he asked bowing low.

Iyla laughed. "Madam?"

"Master Dume always says manners and chivalry are important. Now, would you like to dance?"

Iyla bit her lip nervously and stared into his eyes. Perhaps he was just doing it to make her feel better. But he was the only one who bothered to ask her. The only one who bothered to seek her out in her loneliness and pain. Maybe it was a pity dance. Maybe it was just to make her feel better, but it was more than anyone else in the room had done all night. She grinned and took his offered hand.

"I'd be delighted to, sir," she giggled.

"Great," he smiled and pulled her to the floor.

"You do know how to dance, right?" she teased.

"Hey, I did just fine with Pretoria," he defended.

Iyla looked away sadly. "I'm no Pretoria Orlo," she said.

"I know," Flynn replied.

Iyla winced and lowered her eyes but felt a finger under her chin. She looked up at Flynn's bright eyes and goofy grin.

"You're Iyla Kenobi. Which is even better," he said sincerely.

Iyla blushed and laughed as he exaggeratedly got into position with his head held high and arms at the ready. She smiled and rolled her eyes then allowed him to lead her around the dance floor.

From the wall Ahsoka looked at her Master and Grandmaster, fully expecting them to glare at Flynn and try to scare him away. But they did no such thing. When she asked them about it, Obi-Wan shrugged and chuckled.

"There's no need to worry. It's just Flynn," he said before slipping from the room.

It was no secret that Obi-Wan was a nervous flyer. Not only did he think flying was for droids, but he was the worst passenger as well. Unless it was someone he trusted and knew to be a calm and collected pilot who wouldn't go out of their way to be reckless like some people (coughAnakincough). He was never truly comfortable in a speeder unless it was him driving. He knew that he was reliable enough to follow rules and drive smoothly. It couldn't be said for everyone else.

So, when it came time to teach Iyla to drive, he was completely dreading it. He never had to teach Anakin to drive. Not really. Sure he had to help him learn the basic traffic rules (which he still ignores) and how to control certain parts of the newer speeders (which he ended up knowing by heart after one drive), but how to actually drive wasn't something Anakin needed to learn. But that didn't mean driving with Anakin wasn't terrifying as well. Obi-Wan always sent a prayer to the Force every time he had to get in a speeder with his former Padawan.

Which was exactly why he refused to allow Anakin to teach Iyla to drive. There was no way in hell Anakin and Iyla were going to get into a speeder together. Over his dead body. Which was always a possibility with Anakin Skywalker at the wheel.

Padme had offered to do it, knowing Obi-Wan's aversion to flying, but he insisted that it was his job as her father to teach her. He only hoped they both survived the lesson.

Iyla was beyond excited for her first driving lesson. Well, technically it was her second driving lesson. Her first had come when her Uncle Anakin had taken her to an empty parking lot and thought it was a good idea to set a 6-year-old behind the wheel. Obi-Wan completely freaked out and her uncle has been forbidden to get in a speeder with her alone ever since. But this time was different. This time it was her first legal driving lesson.

Finally, at 15-years-old, she would be in control of the speeder. She'd be the one driving her Papa. Who looked completely terrified in the seat next to her. He did his best to conceal his anxiety but the look on his face said it all. Iyla's excitement started to wane in the face of his sheer panic. Why was he so nervous? She knew he didn't like flying, but did he really think it would go so terribly? Did he really think she'd be that bad of a pilot? She bit her lip and wiped her sweaty hands on her thighs. Obi-Wan caught the movement from the corner of his eye and immediately shut his unease behind thick shields. He could feel her growing nervous and knew he had to be the father in the situation and send her reassurance despite his complete terror.

Iyla relaxed a bit when she felt his comfort through the Force. "Are you sure I'm ready for this, Papa?" she asked uncertainly. "We can always put it off a bit. If you don't think it's time."

"No, little one. You're ready. I know you are. Plus you've been looking forward to it for so long. Don't let my aversion to flying ruin your day, love. I'll be alright," Obi-Wan reassured her.

"Ok," she said hesitantly.

"Now, what's the first thing we do?" Obi-Wan asked.

"Buckle up," she replied.

"Good. Then?"

"Adjust the mirrors."

"Check."

"Start the engine. Take off the parking break."

"Yes."

"Slowly ascend."

"Good."

"Then punch it," she grinned.

"What?!" Obi-Wan yelped. "No, no. No 'punching it' please!"

"I'm kidding, Papa. Gradually accelerate to match the flow of traffic and ease into the lane. Better?"

"Yes, much," he said looking relieved.

Iyla chuckled and merged into a traffic lane just outside the temple. Everything seemed to be going well for a while and Obi-Wan began to relax as Iyla drove calmly, correctly keeping her hands on the wheel and going the speed limit. It was refreshing to drive with a teenager who actually obeyed traffic laws.

A traffic spot up ahead though brought an end to his calm. Iyla was still cruising along at normal speed when she should be slowing down.

"There's a traffic spot up ahead," he commented casually.

"I see it," Iyla replied. "I'll start slowing down now."

"Good idea," he commented with a tight smile.

Iyla began slowing down but realized it was going to be a close one so she stepped on the break harder nearly throwing Obi-Wan forward right into the control panel. Obi-Wan held his breath and closed his eyes bracing for impact. He could feel Iyla's anxiety at not being able to stop in time but found himself unable to send her comfort.

He peeked an eye open when the speeder finally came to a stop without crunching metal and deployed airbags. Iyla had managed to stop just inches from the speeder in front of her narrowly avoiding a crash. He verbally let out a relieved sigh and looked sideways at Iyla. Her eyes were wide and her hands were gripping the wheel tightly, knuckles white.

"Are you ok?" he asked.

Iyla nodded mutely, eyes still wide.

"Next time," Obi-Wan began. "It might be better to start slowing down a little bit sooner. Seeing the brake lights in front of you should prompt you to break as well," he said gently but still a bit tense.

"Ok. Sorry, Papa," she said sheepishly sinking lower in the seat.

"It's alright, dear. You're still learning."

Iyla managed a small smile and turned her attention back to the lane. The traffic was crawling and with every tap of the break Obi-Wan and Iyla were jerked forward. Clearly she still had a ways to go in smooth breaking. With every jerk Obi-Wan would tightly grip the center console and flinch. A few times she stopped too close to the next speeder and he couldn't help sucking a bit of air through his teeth as he screwed his eyes shut.

"Maybe we should get out of the traffic," Iyla suggested when his flinching started to grate on her.

"Yes, that would be a good idea," he agreed.

Iyla nodded and put on her blinker to wait for an opportunity to change skylanes. When she thought the coast was clear she eased out and got into the next lane nearly seamlessly. But Obi-Wan was now on edge and when she drifted a bit too close to an oncoming speeder he gripped the console again. Iyla was getting self-conscious with his every wince and soon was so rattled that her driving got sloppy.

"That was a bit too close again," Obi-Wan commented flinching away. "Please focus on the speeder in front of you, Iyla. They won't stop for you."

"I'm trying, Papa. It's just…"

"Yes?"

"You're making me nervous," she replied.

"Well, I've had reason to be, dear. You're a bit distracted."

"Because of you," she said in exasperation.

"You'll need to learn to deal with distractions, Iyla. Driving is full of them."

"I know. But you're constant flinching and hissing aren't helping."

Obi-Wan dipped his head in apology and motioned for her to keep going.

Iyla took a centering breath and closed her eyes.

"Don't shut your eyes!" Obi-Wan squeaked.

"It was only for a second, Papa, we're not even-"

"Crashes can happen in an instant! Any time you take your eyes off the road is an opportunity for disaster."

"Ok, ok, sorry," she said testily.

"Drop the attitude."

Iyla rolled her eyes. "I can't focus with you lecturing me all the time. You're supposed to me teaching me, not critiquing my every move."

"Teaching and critiquing go hand in hand, dear. You need to be able to take criticism."

"Ugh, I know! But it's making me nervous. And it's not helping! I'm trying my best."

"Yes, you are but you still have a lot to learn."

"It's my first lesson!" she protested. "Can't you give me a break?"

"I'm trying to be lenient but-"

"No you're not! You're just getting mad."

"Iyla-"

"No, Papa. Stop. I know you don't like flying but you're being really unfair right now."

"Iyla-"

"I'm trying my best and it's my first time and you're not being very supportive and-"

"Iyla, stop!"

"No, Papa. I won't."

"Iyla, stop right now."

"But Papa-"

Obi-Wan suddenly grabbed the wheel and swerved away from an oncoming speeder then guided them out of the fast lanes and over to stop against a curb. Both Kenobis sat there for a moment panting and breathing heavily, Obi-Wan in fear and panic, Iyla in anger and frustration.

"The lesson is over. I'm driving home," Obi-Wan said quietly after a moment.

Iyla swallowed thickly and slipped out of the driver's seat to switch places with him. Neither of them said a word the whole way back to the temple but the quiet was sometimes punctuated by a sniffle from the teenager. Obi-Wan eyed the girl and saw her desperately trying to hold back tears.

"Iyla, love, I'm sorry I got angry."

Iyla looked away from him and discreetly wiped at her eyes. "You didn't have to yell," she said with a pout.

"I know."

"You didn't even say anything positive. All you did was point out my faults and make me feel terrible," she said quietly.

"I'm sorry, dear. Flying isn't my thing. I can't help but be critical when it comes to these things. Next time-"

"No," Iyla said firmly.

"What?"

"I said no. There isn't going to be a 'next time,'" she said.

"Iyla, darling, you need to learn how to drive. I'm sorry I made you feel like you can't do anything right but it's an essential part of being a Jedi."

"I know. Which is why I'm going to continue learning," she said.

Obi-Wan scrunched his brows in confusion and opened his mouth to reply but Iyla cut him off.

"I'm going to continue learning, but not with you," she said resolutely.

"But-"

"You make me nervous and I can't learn from you. Every time I got even the least bit close to anything you freaked out. I can't learn to drive like that, Papa. It stresses me out too much."

"I'm sorry, but I'd like another chance, dear."

"Maybe later. When I'm more confident. But for now, I just can't. I need someone else to teach me."

"You are NOT getting in a speeder with Anakin. I won't allow it!" Obi-Wan replied firmly.

"Not Uncle Anakin, Papa. I don't have a death wish. But maybe Auntie Padme instead. She won't flinch at everything."

Obi-Wan was silent for a moment. Part of him was hurt at her rejection of his help but part of him understood and was relieved. He really didn't think he could handle another lesson.

"Alright," he conceded. "We will ask her tonight at dinner."

"Thanks, Papa."

Obi-Wan touched down in the temple hangar and turned off the engine. Before Iyla could get out of the speeder he touched her shoulder to stop her.

"You did really well today, darling," he said.

Iyla eyed him skeptically and raised an eyebrow. "Are you just saying that because you're sorry you made me cry?" she asked.

Obi-Wan chuckled. "Well, I am sorry I made you cry, but no, I'm not just saying that. You really did do well, dear. You followed the laws and were very cautious and safe."

Iyla scoffed in disbelief.

"You were," he insisted. "Besides the few incidents it went really well. You didn't start getting sloppy until I started to get anxious. Which I apologize for. You are still learning and I should have been more understanding."

"It's ok, Papa. It's not your fault you're terrified of flying and freak out every time you get in a speeder," she smirked.

"I do not freak out," he protested.

"I thought at one point you were going to cry," she teased.

"That's ridiculous," he huffed.

Iyla laughed. "I'm kidding. But you were pretty scared. I could tell."

"Perhaps," he replied. "I'll have to work on my shielding next time. Apologies, love."

"It's alright," she smiled.

"I am proud of you, Iyla. You did well," he said giving her a smile.

Iyla ducked her head. "Thanks, Papa. But you're still not coming next time."

Obi-Wan laughed. "Fair enough," he replied.

Being a Jedi is dangerous, Obi-Wan knows this. In fact, he knows this better than anyone else in the Order most likely. His Master said it was because he's accident prone and a trouble magnet. He says it's just the nature of the job. And it wasn't his fault that he happened to get hurt more than most people. That's just what happens on missions and in the field. Most of the time it's unavoidable and comes with the territory. It's to be expected and it's a risk every Jedi takes when they go on a mission. Getting hurt happens and it's usually not too big of a deal.

Until it happens to his daughter. Then it's a big deal. A very big deal.

Ahsoka commed him as soon as their ship touched down at the temple. As was usual with the Tano-Kenobi pair, a mission went disastrously and resulted in Iyla being injured. Pretty badly injured. She'd been injured on missions before of course. What 16-year-old Padawan hadn't been hurt multiple times in the field? But it had always been minor. Short trips to the Healing Halls. Short recovery times. Quick bounce-backs to normal. But he doubted this time would be the same.

It was late and the temple hallways were practically empty which Obi-Wan was grateful for. Less people to see him sprinting and less people to notice the panic on his face. "You should come," Ahsoka had said. She sounded scared and worried. And that had a pit of dread settling heavy in his stomach. What had happened? How bad was it? Was she going to be ok? These questions ran through his mind as he ran into the Healing Halls.

Bant looked up as he screeched to a halt in front of her panting and leaning on the check in counter.

"Obi-Wan, she's going to be ok," Bant tried to reassure him.

"Bant, please. I must see her," he gasped.

"You will, Obi, I just wanted to put your mind at ease. She's going to be alright," Bant replied.

"My mind won't be at ease until I see her for myself," he said pleadingly.

"I understand," Bant nodded then turned and motioned for him to follow. She led him to a small hospital room and ushered him inside then left to check on other patients.

Ahsoka sat slumped in a chair with her head in her hands and back to the door.

"Ahsoka," Obi-Wan said.

Ahsoka shot up and turned to face him. "Master Obi-Wan," she greeted solemnly with a bow and a self-conscious smoothing of her crumpled robe. "Thank you for coming."

"Of course. I would never leave my daughter to the Halls without me." He looked around and noticed the empty bed. "Where is she?" he asked.

"She's just finishing a bacta submersion," Ahsoka answered.

Obi-Wan's eyes widened. "She needed to be submerged?" he asked looking concerned.

"Healer Che wanted to be sure the internal injuries were completely healed. The other treatments were most likely enough but with internal injuries you can't take any chances."

"Internal…" Obi-Wan trailed off. "Ahsoka, what happened?"

Ahsoka swallowed thickly and looked at the ground before lifting her eyes back up to him. "We encountered some insurgents as we were leaving Corellia. We were nearly to the ship when we were ambushed. I told Iyla to get to the ship and get it ready to fly but, well, you can guess how that went over."

Obi-Wan smirked. "She completely disregarded your order and stayed anyway."

"Yes," Ahsoka said looking annoyed. "Can't imagine where she gets that stubbornness from."

"Like Master like Padawan," Obi-Wan replied.

"I was thinking more like father like daughter," Ahsoka countered.

Obi-Wan mock glared at her. "Anyway, Iyla didn't go to the ship as asked," he said indicating for her to continue.

"She insisted that there were too many and I needed her help. I have to admit she was right. But I didn't like putting her in danger. She would have been safer on the ship. But she didn't and she got hurt and it's my fault," Ahsoka said looking guilty.

"It's not your fault," Obi-Wan insisted.

"But it's my job to look out for her. My job to keep her safe and I…failed. I'm so sorry, Master. You trusted Iyla with me and I let her get hurt. Badly."

Obi-Wan stepped closer and put a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Every Master feels responsible when their Padawans get hurt. But it's the nature of the job. You can't place all the blame on yourself. Iyla is responsible as well. She ignored your orders."

"And she lied to me," she answered looking frustrated.

"How so?"

"She didn't tell me she was hurt. I had a feeling she was. I saw the blaster bolt hit her shoulder but she led me to believe that it was the only injury. She conveniently left out the fact that she was kicked in the chest, thrown to the ground, and landed awkwardly on her ankle. I didn't know it was that bad until she passed out on the ship."

"Oh dear. Seems she's adopted my habit of downplaying injuries. I'm sure she wasn't planning on telling you either. Let me guess, she said she was 'fine.'"

"Yes," Ahsoka grumbled. "As I said, like father like daughter."

Obi-Wan looked sheepish and inclined his head at the admonishment. "How bad was it? Obviously bad enough to need a bacta tank."

"It's the broken rib that worried Master Che the most. It wasn't healing well with the bone knitter. That's why she wanted the bacta submersion. It's dangerous to keep a broken rib unhealed."

"Indeed," Obi-Wan agreed. "Was there any damage to the lungs or heart?"

"No, one lung was bruised but thankfully not punctured."

"Well that's good news," he replied sitting down in the other chair in the room.

"Her ankle isn't broken but she will need to be off of it for at least two weeks. The concussion was minor as well," Ahsoka said sitting across from him.

"And the blaster wound?"

"That's a bit more of a worry. It's been cleaned and treated but because she left it so long before saying anything, there is a risk of infection."

Obi-Wan's eyebrows furrowed in concern but Ahsoka was quick to reassure him. "But Healer Che said if infection does occur it's easily treatable. It won't be pleasant but the medication should make it easier on her."

Obi-Wan let out a heavy sigh. "How much longer is she in the bacta?"

"Another half hour. I figured it would be nice for you to be here when she gets out and wakes up. Bacta submersion can be disorienting your first time."

Obi-Wan nodded and settled back against the chair. "And you?" he asked.

"Me?"

"Are you alright?"

"Yes, I'm-"

"Fine?" he smirked.

Ahsoka smirked back and shrugged. "My injuries were superficial. Iyla's the one who was hurt the worst. I've been really worried about her. Came straight here with her and haven't left since."

"Have you eaten?"

"No," Ahsoka shook her head. "I don't have much of an appetite. Plus I don't want to leave."

Obi-Wan smiled fondly. "I'll ask Bant to bring something in. You should try to eat something at least instead of sitting here drowning in your anxiety."

"Still taking care of me after all these years, Master?"

"Old habit die hard, young one," he smiled.

Ahsoka chuckled and shook her head. Bant came in after about ten minutes and delivered some food to the pair. Ahsoka ate nearly everything on her plate despite insisting that she wasn't hungry. Obi-Wan smirked knowingly but kept his comments to himself. They ate and talked about troublesome Padawans while they waited for their troublemaker to be done with her bacta treatment.

Finally after what seemed like more than 30 minutes, Iyla was wheeled in by a few healers and transferred to the bed. Obi-Wan thanked them then turned his attention to the sleeping teenager. He adjusted her blankets and ran a hand through her damp hair. Iyla had a slight frown on her face even in sleep and he used a finger to smooth the lines between her brows. Ahsoka settled her chair by the bed and took her Padawan's hand in her own stroking it gently. She closed her eyes and concentrated on Iyla's Force signature. Thankfully the girl was blissfully asleep and drifting pleasantly in the Force.

"She's peaceful right now. Perhaps some discomfort from the sensation of the bacta tank but she's not in pain as far as I can tell."

Obi-Wan nodded and settled on Iyla's other side looking uneasy with an identical furrowed brow like his daughter.

"Are you ok, Master?" Ahsoka asked.

"Yes, I'm alright. It's just unsettling to see her so hurt. Seeing her in this bed looking so vulnerable and…young. It's…it just looks wrong," he replied.

Ahsoka watched as he took her other hand in both of his and brought it up to his lips then closed his eyes.

"What am I going to do with you, little one?" he teased. "You're giving your Papa gray hairs."

"I thought Anakin did that," Ahsoka grinned.

"Well, he did, as did you. But Iyla's certainly helping turn it completely gray," he smiled.

Obi-Wan ran a hand through Iyla's hair again and stroked her cheek. Ahsoka felt like she was intruding on a private moment and stood up to go seek out Healer Che to ask about the results of the bacta submersion.

Now alone with Iyla, Obi-Wan allowed his calm façade to crack a bit. He sighed heavily and ran a hand down his face.

"You've got to stop worrying me so much, my darling," he said in the silence.

A small whimper came from the bed and he sat up suddenly.

"Iyla?"

A groan this time with a scrunched forehead and distressed and restless shifting.

"Shh, Iyla, dear. It's ok," he soothed.

The teen's breathing was labored and she started tossing her head back and forth. Obi-Wan got up and put a hand on her brow focusing healing and calm energy into her Force signature. He noticed her brow was slick with sweat and he grew concerned about the possibility of infection from the shoulder wound. He closed his eyes and cupped her face still sending peace and healing to her. With one more groan Iyla seemed to settle down and her eyelids fluttered.

"That's it, love. Open your eyes for me. You're ok," he encouraged. "Papa is here."

"Mmm," Iyla whined. "P'pa?" she croaked.

"Yes, sweetheart. I'm here," he smiled down at her.

Foggy blue eyes looked up at him. "Where'm I?" she asked.

"You're in the Halls, Iyla. You were injured on Corellia," he replied.

"Oh," she said looking around the room confused. "Where's Soka?"

"She slipped out to talk with Master Che. She's been very worried about you. You scared her a lot. Scared both of us a lot."

Iyla lowered her eyes to her blankets. "Sorry," she winced. "Shoulda told her I was hurt."

"Yes, you should have," Obi-Wan said looking at her with disapproval. "It was foolish to keep your injuries a secret."

"Nothin' you haven't done. S'what Cody says."

Obi-Wan scowled. "Cody exaggerates."

Iyla laughed then hissed and grimaced.

"Ribs still a bit sore, I'd imagine," Obi-Wan commented. "You're a bit feverish too."

"Is that why I feel hot? Thought it was just the temp'ture in here," she smiled a loopy smile, her glassy eyes staring up at him.

"The Halls are always unbearably cold, dear. Surely you know that by now."

Iyla shrugged and yawned. "Is Master Eerin gonna give me the good drugs?" she asked.

"Oh Force I hope not. I swore we'd never do that again. I'm still apologizing to Master Nu for the damage to her archives."

"Didn't damage them. Just reorganized them," Iyla pouted. "And s'not my fault I reacted badly to the medicine. They never said sleepwalking was a side-effect."

"What you did wasn't sleep walking, love. It was sleep-rearranging of the most organized and thought out system in the entire Order. If Master Nu wasn't so fond of you I think she would have banned you from coming back."

Iyla smiled lopsidedly. "I am irr'sist'ble. Can't help but love me."

"Force knows why," he teased.

"Papa, m'head hurts," she whined. "Can you ask Master Eerin for some medicine please?" she asked turning her big akk-pup eyes on him.

Obi-Wan smiled indulgently and pressed a kiss to her head. "Of course, my little one. I'll be right back," he said then slipped out of the room to find Bant.

He returned to find Ahsoka sitting next to Iyla, both of them talking quietly and smiling.

"What did she say?" Iyla asked.

"She'll be in to give you some pain relievers in a bit. She wants you to eat something first if you're up to it. We don't want a repeat of the last time."

"When we found you standing in the middle of the archives in your pajamas Force floating datapads around?" Ahsoka smirked.

"Ugh! That was one time," Iyla groaned.

Obi-Wan and Ahsoka laughed as she huffed and crossed her arms.

"Ok, we'll stop teasing, dear. Now, eat your food like a good little girl and then you can have the drugs," Obi-Wan chuckled.

Iyla scowled at him then shoved some bread in her mouth.

Obi-Wan and Ahsoka kept her entertained with stories of their own mission mishaps their voices growing quieter and lower when they noticed her eyelids drooping. Ahsoka discreetly took the tray of food from the Padawan's lap and set her water cup to the side. Obi-Wan caught the spoon from Iyla's hand when it slipped from her loosened grasp. He carefully adjusted her covers and started to move her into a more reclined position when she jerked back awake.

"What's happenin'?" she asked groggily but trying valiantly to look alert.

"You're getting some pain meds, that's what's happening," Bant said coming into the room. "Then you're going to sleep."

"Not tired," she protested even while knuckling her eyes.

Obi-Wan smiled at the endearing gesture and reached out to take her hand. He started rubbing it in soothing circles and Iyla tried to pull it away.

"St'p," she whined. "Not fair."

Obi-Wan chuckled. "Just doing my job as a father putting his stubborn little one to sleep."

"Rude," she frowned.

Bant smiled at the exchange. "Does that feel better, Iyla?" she asked once she had fixed the tape on the girl's IV line.

Iyla smiled. "Mmhmm. Feels nice, Mas'er," she slurred.

"Good to hear. Now, obey you Papa and get some sleep. I'll be in later to check on you."

"Kay," she said settling down against the pillows.

"Oh, so you listen to Bant but not me?" Obi-Wan asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Course. She gave me drugs," Iyla smiled.

Ahsoka laughed while Obi-Wan rolled his eyes.

"Still love you though," she whispered.

Obi-Wan's heart melted and he smiled widely. Outright declarations of love and affection were pretty much unheard of now that Iyla was a teenager.

"I love you too, darling. Get some sleep. You'll feel better when you wake up," he said smoothing her now dry and frizzy waves from her forehead.

"You gonna stay?" Iyla asked peeking up at him with wide blue eyes.

"Of course," he smiled.

"You too, Soka?" she said turning the puppy eyes to her Master.

"Yeah, kiddo. I'll stay too," Ahsoka replied.

"Thanks. G'night P'pa. G'night Mas'er," she whispered barely hanging on to wakefulness.

"Good night, my little light," Obi-Wan said pressing a kiss to her forehead.

"Good night, Padawan," Ahsoka echoed gently squeezing the girl's hand.

Iyla's breathing finally evened out and she succumbed to sleep. Ahsoka laid Iyla's hand back down on the bed and ran a hand over her face tiredly. Obi-Wan caught the gesture and smiled to himself. Clearly Iyla wasn't the only one who needed to rest.

"Switch places with me," he spoke up.

Ahsoka looked at him in confusion. "Huh?" she asked.

Obi-Wan chuckled. "Switch with me. This chair is far more comfortable and you need your rest as well."

"But I promised-" she cut off with a big yawn. "I promised I'd stay."

"And you will. But you'll also rest. I'll stay awake for the both of us."

"I'm not a cranky youngling refusing sleep," she said with a small pout.

"You'll always be a youngling to me, Ahsoka," Obi-Wan smiled. "Now, humor your Grandmaster and switch seats with me."

Ahsoka huffed but got up to switch with him anyway. Once she sat down she immediately found herself relaxing in the surprisingly comfortable armchair. She went practically boneless as she sunk into the cushions and her eyes started closing despite her efforts to keep them open. She was tempted to peek and eye open to look at Obi-Wan but didn't feel like seeing his smug face. She felt something warm settle around her shoulders and she leaned into it inhaling the scent of tea and earth. Master Obi-Wan's robe, she told herself. Ahsoka opened her mouth to thank him but found her tongue wouldn't cooperate with her so she gave up, sent him gratitude and affection through the Force, then pulled the robe tighter around herself.

"Good night, Ahsoka," Obi-Wan whispered using the Force to dim the lights.

Ahsoka meant to reply. She really did. But all she could manage was a smile and a sigh. As she drifted off she thanked the Force for sparing and saving her Padawan and for her Grandmaster who was still taking care of her after all these years. Kenobis were frustrating accident-prone trouble magnets but she loved them both. Force help her.

I hope you enjoyed all these firsts for Padawan Iyla! I've had the dance idea in my head for a while and while I feel bad about how it affected Iyla, I could not get the image out of my head of Obi-Wan, Anakin, and the others being so overprotective that they ruin the party for her. I could just see a wall of angry Masters glaring at all the boys in the room. Poor kids were terrified lol. The driving one is inspired by my own experience. My dad attempted to teach me how to drive but reacted just as Obi-Wan did the whole time. I never almost caused an accident but every time I got too close to a curb or another car he'd wince and close his eyes or hiss and grab the armrest. It drove me insane! Eventually I was the one to pull over and say the lesson was over and I wanted my mom to teach me next time lol. Driving with mom was so much calmer thankfully.

I'm officially on summer break and while I am working to get ready for my first classroom ever, I should be able to write more frequently. So, that being said, hope to see you soon with the next chapter!