Hey everyone! I've been excited to write this chapter, and it's a bit longer because I got a bit carried away. XD But! I hope you still enjoy! I will warn you that there are some sad feels up ahead, which probably isn't that helpful for anyone who saw 'Legacy'. And seriously, that episode-

Considerate Fangirl: "Wait! You can't spoil it for those who haven't seen it!"

Inner Fangirl: "Aw. You're no fun."

Consider Fangirl: "Hell yeah!"

Myself: …

DX It's almost holidays and my brain is fried. XD I can't even anymore. But anyways, enjoy! :D

Q/A's:

Is Chopper ever coming into the story?

Yes. He will be coming at some point. I promise. :D

Reactions:

Ezraismybae- I'm so glad you enjoyed it! I'm trying to update more regularly now that it's coming up to holidays. :D

Ddani121212- I love when Ezra/Hera moments happen in the show. But I love Ezra/Kanan moments even MORE! XD

Chiibe the Rebel- Don't worry! There is some Ezra/Kanan bonding up ahead. ;D

Court818- Yes, very interesting isn't it. But only time will tell. ;D

Jessie KI- I'm so glad to hear that! :D Enjoy the chapter!

DevilSPR- And now, another backstory chapter! :D

Rebekahtpe- Family ties should be updated, and I'm glad to hear you like this story too! :D

EmilyBridger- Yes, Chopper will be coming soon-ish… maybe? I kinda know, but then I kinda don't so… well… he's coming. That's what's important. XD

Azulablue92- Wow. I hope everything's going okay with your move, and that this chapter can put a smile on your face! :D

Rebels Lover- The glasses were just a dentist thing so the light didn't hurt a patient's eyes. But seriously, wait until you watch 'Legacy'. That is by far one of my favourite episodes of season 2! :)

Midnight Luna- XD Your reviews always make my day. Thank you for always making me smile whenever I feel down. :D

Jelsa777- Yes! Only time will tell! :D

Petesmurf- Yeah, I don't like needles. And my friend has a few horses, but I know that one of them was a Clydesdale cross while another was an x-racehorse.

Fantasie Adventura Dreamwriter- Yes. I love Ezra/Kanan too. Did you see 'Legacy'? OMG. The bonding was too much for my heart! The feels! THE FEELZ!

Animal Lover-Dream writer- Yeah. While on the streets Ezra probably learnt it was best to blend in, but I'm pretty sure he'd also know how to stick up for himself if the time came. :D Enjoy the chapter!

The Silent Fury- I'm hoping to update more regularly, so I hope you enjoy! :D

Sabine's POV

I waited at the school gates as people flooded by, searching expectantly for the blue haired boy I'd grown so fond of. It was now the end of the school week, and Ezra had been with us for five days. It had been a long, painstaking process, but he had finally settled in and realised he wouldn't get away without a fight. I'm pretty sure he tried to run away one the night, but not before Zeb could grab a hold of him and drag him back to the Ghost. The teen hadn't attempted escape since.

Suddenly, I saw a blue mop of hair amongst all the other kids and smiled. "Ezra!" I waved.

The boy shouldered his way past others to get to where I was standing, expression dull and frustrated. I frowned. "Something wrong?"

He snorted, walking hastily down the road as I struggled to keep up with his pace. "Stupid school gave me homework for over the weekend," he muttered, anger fuming off in waves. "Supposedly, saying to a teacher's face that homework is a gimmick lazy teachers use to finish work that they couldn't teach in school hours is 'offensive'." He said that last part in air quotes, pulling a stupid face along with it.

I rolled my eyes, placing my hand on his shoulder until he shook it off furiously. "Hey!" I snapped, grasping his wrist and twisting him around to face me. "I'm just trying to help. You don't need to get mad at me."

His expression softened, eyes shadowing with guilt. He let out a strained sigh, replying "Sorry… Sabine. I've just got a lot on my mind."

"Well, maybe I can help," I suggested.

He shook his head, shooting me a weak smile. "Thanks, but no thanks. I can handle it," he assured. We made it to an intersection, Ezra turning to go down a different path. "I'll be back at 5," he said, glancing over his shoulder.

I frowned, but nodded. The boy broke out into a sprint, rocketing down the street and towards the city that could be seen in the distance. I always wondered where the boy would go off to when he had his hour of free time. In the last two days, he'd come back exhausted and puffed, collapsing on the longue and lying unconscious until dinner time. And that only made me more curious.

So, today, I was determined to find out. I pulled my cell phone out of my pocket and opened the contacts. Scrolling down, I clicked onto Hera's phone and sent a message. "Be home later. Staying with Ezra for the day."

I started on my way in the direction Ezra had run off to, strolling casually towards the city. A few minutes into my journey, Hera replied "If Ezra's okay with that. Just make sure you stick with him honey, and stay on the light side please."

I sighed, slipping my phone back into my pocket. I didn't know why Kanan and Hera thought I couldn't handle myself. Ezra was a year younger than me, yet he was allowed a whole hour after school doing whatever he pleased. That just didn't seem fair. Sure, he had a lot more street smarts and experience, but still…

After a while of aimlessly walking around the clean streets and seeing no sign of Ezra, I wondered if he might have gone to the dark side of town. It was surely possible. I had to take a long moment of thought though. Hera had told me not to go there. Zeb always spoke of it lowly. And Kanan warned me never to set foot on that turf. It was extremely dangerous, and even worse for a young teenage girl to be wondering the filthy alleys all alone.

But, mustering my courage, I changed direction for the other side of town. I was running out of time to find Ezra, and the curiosity was eating away at me. So, I continued on my way until finally making it to the midpoint. As I reached the border of the light side, I realised how different the two sides were. Litter was floating about on the streets, buildings tall and colourless. It seemed as if the sun didn't reach here at all, the air cool and stagnant.

I inhaled sharply, before forcing my legs to keep walking. It seemed to get worse the further I travelled. Dark alleys were everywhere, a horrendous stench burning my nostrils. The slightest sound made me jump, whether it be just a rat skittering across the ground or the slight creaks and groans from abandoned buildings. People who walked by scowled or glared at me, adorned in old, out-of-size or filthy clothing. Even a small child laying against a wall growled and spat as I walked by.

I was beginning to regret my decision of coming here. I felt caged, like there was danger lurking around every corner.

As I turned my fifth corner, I saw three people in rags standing around a trash can with a small fire kindling in it. They puffed away on cigarettes, coughing forcefully before taking another whiff. The sight made my stomach churn. Okay Sabine, that's enough. Time to go.

I quickly twisted on my heel, hastily making my way back to the light side. I'd had enough exploration for today. But suddenly, a man with a square chin and rough complexion stepped out from the shadows, blocking my path. "Well, well, well. Aren't you a little far away from home missy?" he chuckled with a sick smile.

Fear immediately spiked within as I stumbled back slightly. "I-I don't want any trouble," I stuttered, eyes wide.

The man just smirked, replying "And you won't get any… if you come along obediently."

"W-What?" I mumbled.

Suddenly, his hand lashed out and grasped my collar, dragging me closer. I yelped out in surprise, gagging when I smelt his horrific breath. "Come on, you heard me," he scowled. "Just be quiet, and nobody gets hurt."

At first nothing happened, until I released a blood curdling scream and tried to kick away. The man growled, clamping a gloved hand over my mouth to silence my cries and using his other hand to drag me away. I resisted as well as I could, hoping someone, anyone would come to my rescue. But everyone on the streets just observed. Some people watched with a fearful or worried expression, while others chose to ignore the scene entirely, making no move to step in as the stranger pulled me towards a shadowed alley. Suddenly, a figure jumped from the alley and punched the man square under the chin. The man released his grip on me, allowing me to twist away and stumble back into my saviour. Adrenaline was pumping around me like crazy as I glanced over my shoulder, gasping in surprise to see a familiar face. "Ezra?!" I exclaimed.

Ezra's expression was firm and frightening as he protectively pushed me behind him. "Rrr! You'll pay for that kid!" the man barked ferociously.

"Step off Hank!" Ezra boomed, standing tall. "Let's not end the day in bloodshed, huh?"

This 'Hank' bared his teeth, cracking his knuckles imposingly and replying "You'll be dead, street urchin!"

Ezra growled, face contorting in anger as he lunged forward and punched the man right in the nose. Hank cried out in pain, stumbling backwards and struggling to regain his balance. He clutched his nose tightly, blood beginning to ooze out over his hands and mouth. "Last warning Hank!" Ezra roared. "Back off! Now!"

The man scowled. "Stupid street rat!" he spat, before scurrying off into a side alley.

It was silent for a moment, everyone in the area extremely tense. Ezra frowned, twisting around and grasping my wrist tightly. "What're you doing here?!" he hissed as he dragged me back towards the light side.

"I-I was just wondering where you were," I replied nervously.

"You shouldn't be here. It's not safe," he growled.

My brows furrowed. "Then how come you can go here?!" I snapped, shrugging out of his grasp and staring him dead in the eye.

"That right there was a pretty good explanation of why," he snarked.

I sighed, not wanting to admit that he was right. But finally, I said softly "I know… and thank you."

Ezra's eyes widened slightly, the tension releasing from his muscles. The previous frustration and disappointment that lingered in his electric orbs melted away. It was silent for a moment, until he smirked and rolled his eyes. "Come on then," he started, waving me over. "Let's get back home before Hera kills us both."

A small smile tugged at my lips. "Yeah, that's probably a good idea," I chuckled, walking beside him as we made our way back to the light side.

"Speaking of Hera," Ezra probed. "She surely wouldn't have let you come down to this part of town alone, would she?"

I refused to look at him, my lips drawing into a thin line. But I could feel Ezra's stare burning into my skull. Finally, I caved in. "Fine, fine. I told Hera you let me come with you," I admitted.

I expected Ezra to be mad, but instead, he just laughed. "Guess there's a little rebel in you after all," he smirked.

Surprisingly, his comment made my ever increasing guilt lift slightly. We continued along peacefully, passer-by's giving us sideway looks, but a lot less hostile now that Ezra was stationed by my side. "Hey! Six!" a small, croaky voice called gleefully as we walked.

Both Ezra and I shifted our gaze to the small boy that was lying against the wall, a crooked grin lacing his lips. I was shocked to realise it was the same boy that had spat at me earlier. "Rocko! How've you been?" Ezra smiled, bending down slightly and ruffling the boy's grimy, black hair.

The child giggled, replying "Like always Six. Survivin', no thrivin'."

Ezra chuckled sympathetically, swinging his bag to the side and rummaging through it quickly. Only now did I realise that Ezra wasn't in his school uniform anymore. He was wearing a pair of black sports jeans, with a loose brown shirt and a worn black jacket over the top. At first I wondered where he got those clothes from, but then decided to shrug it off. It was no biggie. "Here kiddo," Ezra smirked, pulling out half of his leftover sandwich. "Have some food."

The boy's jade eyes immediately widened at the sight, scrawny hands latching out and grabbing the sandwich before proceeding to stuff it into his mouth. It reminded me of when Ezra first ate a meal at our house.

Ezra just laughed, patting the boy's head and standing up. "Fank ooo 'ix," the child mumbled through his mouthful.

"No problem," Ezra grinned. "I've gotta go Rocko, but next time, yeah?"

The boy nodded, giving a small wave as we continued to walk. I had so many questions to ask, but the only one that managed to form was "So, Six. What's the story behind that?"

Ezra smirked, glancing at me from the corner of his eye, before replying simply "It's a long story."

So, we continued to walk in silence, all the way back to the light side. Once we crossed over, I felt an incredible relief flood over me, away from the slums and alleys and creeps like that 'Hank' guy. I didn't even want to think about what would have happened if Ezra hadn't shown up when he did. "Hey, how did you even know that guy?" I asked, eying the teen suspiciously.

Ezra sighed, eyes sliding shut for a moment. "He's an Imperial," he explained with a scowl. "You're lucky it wasn't anyone like the Fifth Brother, or the Seventh Sister. Hank isn't that tough, even if he acts like it."

"Will they… come for me now?" I asked nervously, swallowing the lump in my throat.

Ezra shook his head sharply. "Hank is low ranked, don't worry. He doesn't have enough power to get them to come after you. But, just in case, try and stay on this side of town, yeah?" he smirked mischievously.

"How do you know all of this?" I quizzed.

His expression softened, releasing a long sigh. "When you live on the streets Sabine, you learn everything. Life doesn't get sugar coated. You gotta know you're things, or you'll die in the first few days," he explained softly.

I frowned, but decided not to press on the subject anymore. He was probably still very sensitive about his horrible childhood, and I didn't feel like bringing that up any time today. "I'm going to a camp on Monday," I said, trying to lift the heavy tone of the conversation.

Ezra raised a brow. "Camp?"

I smiled. "Yeah! We get to do all these activities and games! It's for like, 5 days, but it's really fun and exciting! Hera will be coming with too," I explained joyfully.

Suddenly, a new sound perked my ears. It sounded like… music. I glanced down the main road, surprised to see a large accumulation of people crowding around something or someone. Then I realised that it was where the music was emanating from. "Whoa! Can you hear that?" I asked Ezra.

Ezra just shrugged nonchalantly. "Music. So what?"

I smiled and grasped Ezra's wrist, saying "Let's go check it out!" I suddenly jerked the boy forward, pulling him along as I ran over to hear the music. But there were so many people that I couldn't see who was singing. I frowned, when Ezra suddenly tugged on my shoulder and said "C'mon. This way!"

I followed him to the edge of the street, the boy climbing onto the roof of a car and gesturing for him to join him. I hesitated, before jumping up and glancing over the crowd to see who was making the music. Indeed, in the middle of the swarm, there was a teenage boy wearing a brown cloak and strumming on an old guitar. Two other figures stood behind him, one plucking along with the first boy and another drumming on old pots and pans. The music was like nothing I was used to, but it sounded amazing!

Suddenly, the people cheered and clapped as the trio came to the end of their song, the crowd throwing their coins into a guitar case. "I think we've got time for one more song everyone!" the leader announced, everyone cheering in response.

The teen got his guitar ready, everyone going silent as he called out "Now this is a shout out to everyone on this planet! Rich and poor! Old and young! Let's play!"

The second guitarist began playing, alongside a gentle back sound of the makeshift drums, until finally the leader got into action.

"Tell me what's wrong with society, when everywhere I look I see, young girls dying to be on TV. They won't till they've reached their dreams. Diet pills, surgery, Photoshop pictures in magazines, are telling them how they should be. It doesn't make sense to me."

"Is everybody going crazy? Is anybody gonna save me? Can anybody tell me what's going on? Tell me what's going on. If you open your eyes, you'll see that something is wrong."

"I guess things are not how they used to be, there's no more normal families. Parents act like enemies, making kids feel like its world war three. No one cares, no one's there. I guess we're all just too damn busy. And money's our first priority, it doesn't make sense to me."

"Is everybody going crazy? Is anybody gonna save me? Can anybody tell me what's going on, tell me what's going on. If you open your eyes, you'll see that something is wrong."

Suddenly the leader started a short guitar solo. It was actually quite entertaining. But another sound could be heard in the distance. Police sirens?

"Tell me what's wrong with society, when everywhere I look I see. Rich guys driving big SUV's, while kids are starving in the streets. No one cares. No one likes to share. I guess life's unfair…"

"Is everybody going crazy?! Is anybody gonna save me?! Can anybody tell me what's going on? Tell me what's going on. If you open your eyes, you'll see that something, something is wrong! Is everybody going crazy?! Can anybody tell me what's going on?! Tell me what's going on! If you open your eyes, you'll see that something is wrong…"

The three of them bowed as the song came to an end. Everyone cheered and clapped, another round of money getting thrown into the case. The lead guitarist laughed, yelling "Thank you all for your generous donations, but we really must be going! Till next time!" The three boys hastily packed their things, pushing past the crowd quickly while police sirens became louder and louder from a nearby street. I really wanted to donate my leftover lunch money, but they had disappeared in the crowd. "Where'd they go?" I asked Ezra desperately.

"Why?" he replied casually.

My brows furrowed. "Cause I want to donate to them!" I answered.

Ezra got lost in deep thought for a moment, a mental war raging on in his electric blue eyes. Until suddenly, he grasped my arm and helped me down from the car roof, rushing quickly towards an alley to the left. I didn't question where he was taking me, knowing that I was in safe hands, when the three cloaked boys suddenly appeared from the crowd and ran in our direction. They seemed to be bolting for the alley.

The two back up musician scrambled into the side street while the leader hesitated when he saw us, before turning to tail his friends. "Wait!" I called, running after him.

The teen was about to bolt when I grasped his wrist, yelling "Wait!"

He twisted around quickly, face concealed by his hood. "Sorry, don't do autographs," he mumbled, trying to tug out of my grasp.

"No, wait! I want to give you some money," I explained while using my other hand to rummage through my backpack.

He stopped struggling, but he was shifting from foot to foot nervously as police cars could be heard roaring down the road. "I know it's not much, but it's all I have," I said while handing him a five dollar note and a few coins.

"No, s-seriously, it's fine," he stuttered, stuffing the money into his pocket. "Thanks!"

He was about to run again when I tugged on his arm, asking "Before you go, what's your name?"

"U-Uh…" he replied nervously, desperately trying to escape my iron grasp.

"Sabine," Ezra hissed, grasping my shoulder.

"What? I just want to know his name-"

"Sabine!" Ezra suddenly barked, prying my hand off the boy's arm and letting him scurry into the side street as police cars skidded to beside us. "Get 'em!" a policeman roared as officers hurried out of their vehicles and chased after the boy. But it was too late. He was already gone.

I just stood there, frozen. I wasn't exactly sure what was happening, and words seemed to get caught in my throat as I struggled to speak. "Sabine? Ezra?" a familiar voice called. We both twisted around, surprised to see Kanan standing next to a police car. "What are you two doing here?"

"I was about to ask you the same question," Ezra sneered, glaring at Kanan fiercely.

Kanan frowned. "We heard that the Spirits were here, so we came to capture them," he explained bluntly. "Why are you guys here?"

Before Ezra could speak another word, I stepped forward and replied "Ezra let me tag along for his hour of free time. We were just on our way home when we heard those boys singing."

Kanan raised a brow, tilting his police cap slightly and gesturing to the car. "C'mon. I'm finishing up now, and I can give you a lift. You can tell me about it on the way," he said.

I nodded, a smile small plastering my lips as I remembered the trio's great music. "Shotgun!" I called, racing to the front seat and scrambling in.

But when I looked back, Ezra was staring at the car with blank eyes, his lips drawn into a thin line. "Somethin' wrong kid?" Kanan asked cautiously. Ezra shifted his gaze to the man with a ghostly stare, his fingers twitching and hands trembling slightly. Energy seemed to be bounding off him in waves, and he looked about ready to bolt if necessary. But Kanan seemed to twig on pretty quickly, taking his hat off and holding his hands up in a kind of surrender. "Ezra, relax. We're just going back to the Ghost. I'm not arresting you or anything like that," he assured softly.

The boy went still, his gaze fixed on Kanan intently. After a deathly silent moment, the tension in his muscles released and he stepped forward hesitantly. Kanan smiled warmly and patted Ezra's back. Big mistake.

Ezra had whipped around and snarled at his foster parent, teeth bared and fists ready, causing Kanan to stumble back in shock. Ezra quickly snapped back to reality, fear and guilt shadowing his expression. "S-Sorry," he mumbled weakly, eyes wide. "I-I was… y-you were… I just…"

Kanan sighed, replying "It's okay. I get it. Just hop in."

Ezra looked genuinely ashamed, and obediently climbed into the backseat without another protest. Kanan got in the front seat and made sure everyone had their seatbelts buckled, before finally driving off in the direction of the Ghost. "Sabine," Kanan started sternly. "What were those Spirit boys doing before we got there?"

I smiled, answering "They were busking! They were really great, and they played this amazing song! I wish I could hear them play again."

Kanan pondered deeply, a hum of thought vibrating in his throat. "I saw you were talking to one of them. What did he say?" he probed suspiciously.

"Oh, I just wanted to donate some money. They were really good Kanan, honestly," I said.

Kanan smirked, reaching a hand over and ruffling my hair gently. "I'm sure they were. But that still doesn't excuse them for the crimes they've committed," he stated bluntly.

"Crimes?" I asked.

He nodded slowly. "The Spirits rob stores, picket pocket people, and even hijack cargo trucks on rare occasions. They've stole over a million dollars' worth of merchandise in the past few years. That's why the police are after them."

Faint muttering could be heard from the back as I glanced over my shoulder to see Ezra staring out the window with a frustrated expression. "What was that?" Kanan inquired, raising a brow.

Ezra only narrowed his eyes, refusing to look at either of us. "Ezra," Kanan warned with a firm tone.

Ezra rolled his eyes, snapping "Maybe if you police weren't so blind you'd actually be able to catch them, Sergeant."

Kanan frowned, replying "Are you saying you know how to find them better than we do?"

Ezra suddenly froze, his eyes wide and empty as he shrunk back in his seat. Kanan, being the observant man he was, picked it up immediately. The man swerved the car to the side of the road, locking the doors and twisting to face Ezra directly. "You know something about them, don't you," Kanan tested, a brow raised suspiciously.

Ezra visibly flinched, replying "No, I don't."

Kanan stared at the boy with piercing teal eyes. "Don't lie Ezra."

Ezra suddenly snapped, growling "Step off Corporal! I don't know anything!"

"You're lying. I can tell," Kanan pointed out calmly.

Ezra snarled, crossing his arms heavily. He looked like he was about to lose it, eyelids shutting tightly as he tried to control his emotions. "Let me out," he seethed through clenched teeth.

"What-"

"Let me out now!" he roared, unclipping his belt and reaching for the door handle.

Kanan frowned, staring at the boy intently, before unlocking the doors and allowing the fuming teen to storm out and walk back home. Everything was silent between Kanan and I as he started driving again, leaving Ezra to continue his journey alone and cool off. "Well," I started awkwardly. "That could have gone a lot worse."

Kanan sighed. "Could've gone a lot better too."

I turned and stared out my window absently. It was going to be long process with Ezra.

…

A few hours later…

"Sabine, can you go check on Ezra please?" Hera asked as she stirred a stew.

I hesitated at first, replying "But he hasn't been in a good mood. I mean, he's up in his room doing homework last I checked."

Hera frowned, adding some more vegetables into the pot. "Well, maybe you can help him out a bit then," she suggested. "If he's feeling moody, the best we can do is either give him some space or offer him some help. And he's had his space for hours now. Please just go check on him."

I sighed and nodded, sliding off my seat and walking out of the kitchen. I made my way up the stairs and approached Ezra and Zeb's door, begrudgingly knocking on the door and waiting for a response. When there was no reply, I began to worry, and decided to walk in anyways. I peaked in, Ezra lying on the ground with his head held in his hands. His homework papers were scattered in front of him, and if I didn't know any better, I could have sworn I heard him sob.

"Ezra?" I asked with concern.

Ezra suddenly shot up, wiping his cheeks quickly and trying to hide his red puffy eyes. "Sabine," he croaked, voice hoarse. "What are you doing here?"

I paced over slowly, replying "I just came to check on you. Are you okay?"

He sighed, regaining his posture and saying "Yeah, fine… I just… don't understand these questions."

I bent down beside him, glancing at the papers that he was pointing to. "Hm, algebra," I muttered. "I'm not really good with these, but Kanan knows how to explain it really well. You should ask him."

The boy stiffened, eyes going hollow. "But… I… he… we…"

I frowned, asking "What?"

Ezra turned and stared at me with a guilty expression. "But I yelled at him before. Is he not still mad?"

I had to stifle a small, sympathetic chuckle, answering "Ezra, Kanan isn't mad. I think he wants to make up with you, but to do that you need to go talk to him."

His brows furrowed in deep thought. "I'll think about it," he muttered.

I sighed, pushing myself up and saying "Whatever you say. But just remember, he's there to help you Ezra, not to hurt you."

The boy glanced up at me from his position on the ground, eyes wide and red. "I know," he murmured, running a hand through his hair bashfully. "I know."

I smiled. "Good. If you need any help, just ask," I said, before walking out of the room and heading back to the kitchen, feeling pleased with myself…

Kanan's POV

I sat at my desk, scrolling through police files on the computer. I was searching for some kind of pattern in the Spirit's database, but I couldn't see anything re-occurring. Hera and I had debated about whether or not to take the new Investigation. She had been reluctant at first, expressing how I wouldn't get much time to spend with our foster kids anymore, until I argued that the raised pay would be a financial saviour. Slowly, Hera warmed up to the idea and agreed that I should take the job.

But the new work load was stressing me out. Kallus, my new work partner, had suggested picking a kid off the slums and interrogating them until they spilled some information, but I had immediately objected. "They're just children! We can't do that. There has to be better way," I had protested. After some back and forth arguments, Kallus eventually agreed. Though begrudgingly I might add.

Suddenly, there was a faint knock at my door. "Come in," I called, expecting it to be Hera.

The door didn't open at first, which was a bit odd, until it creaked open slightly. Light poured into the dimly lit room as I swivelled in my seat to see who was there. My eyes widened when I realised who it was. "Ezra?" I quizzed.

The boy shifted nervously from foot to foot, head bowed slightly as he glanced up at me from behind his blue bangs. "H-Hey," he murmured.

I slumped back in my chair and tried to play off my surprise and worry. "Something wrong?" I finally asked.

"Uh, yeah… I need some help with some homework," he explained, holding up a sheet of paper.

I nodded thoughtfully, waving him over and dragging a spare seat to beside me. The teen hesitantly walked forward, sitting down and placing the homework on the desk. "Here," he said, pointing to an algebra question. "I don't understand these."

I smiled softly, replying "Let me explain…"

"Wow," Ezra drawled. "I think that's the most pointless thing I've ever learnt."

I chuckled lightly. "Who knows, it might come in use some day," I reasoned.

Ezra scoffed in amusement, scribbling the last answer down onto the page. He reluctantly glanced up at me, blue eyes beaming with electricity. "Thank you," he murmured.

I smiled. "Of course. If you need any more help, just ask."

Ezra stood up, grasping his homework and turning to walk away, before he suddenly hesitated. I raised a brow curiously as the teen glanced at me with shadowed eyes. "And… sorry," he mumbled. "For before… back at the car. I didn't mean to yell at you like that. It's just when I saw you in your police uniform…" He winced, before finishing "Well… I think you get it."

At first I was shocked. It was unlike Ezra to be so sincere or apologize in general. But my expression melted into one of sympathy, sighing deeply and replying "I'm sorry too. I shouldn't have pushed you like that. It's just…" I trailed off.

Ezra took his seat again, staring at me intently with piercing ocean blue eyes. "Just what?"

I flinched, not really wanting to vent my worries and stress onto the boy. But I could feel his gaze burning through my skull, an unsettling feeling churning in my gut. We stayed still and silent for what felt like centuries, before finally, I sighed in defeat and began "As you may know, I took on a new Investigation at the office. It's about-"

"The Spirits," Ezra finished, brow arched. "I know."

I nodded slowly, clasping my hands together and leaning against my knees. "My new pay will be able to help money wise, but I only get that if I can help the investigation progress," I explained. I pursed my lips, unsure if I should speak my next words, until hesitantly finishing "I thought if you knew anything… it could help me get a lead of some sort."

Ezra frowned slightly, his disappointment showing. "Kanan," he replied, expression conflicted. "I understand where you're coming from but… I'm still not going to say anything." He glanced up, electric eyes unusually passive. "The truth is… I don't really know that much," he admitted. "And the little I do know, I don't want to give away because…" This time, it was he who trailed off softly. His expression was unreadable, his eye twitching as he realised he'd said too much.

"Because what?" I pressed cautiously.

The boy inhaled sharply, before releasing it in a strained sighed. "Because," he continued, voice a mere whisper. "They saved me."

I perked up, staring at him with wide eyes. Ezra smiled from my reaction, continuing "In my second year of being on the streets, there was a big drought. Everyone on the streets were slowly fading from such little water, and those who drank unclean water usually… well… you get the picture."

I nodded grimly, gesturing for him to proceed. Ezra hesitated, wiping his sweaty palms against his thighs before saying "Anyways, it was the hottest day yet, and everyone was lying in the shadowed alleys when suddenly, these two cloaked figures walked forward. And behind them they dragged these big, jugs of water. Everyone was amazed! And the best part is, they shared it all between everyone, giving as much water as possible to the homeless." His face brightened with pure delight at the memory.

But I was stuck in complete and utter awe. "They…. They did?" I gawked.

Ezra nodded, his face darkening and expression pained. "If it wasn't for them, hundreds of people would have died that year… including me," he stated grimly. "They're like the Robin Hoods' for the poor."

I rested my chin against my knuckles and thought deeply, rolling the teen's words over in my mind. It was silent for a long time, the dim light swarming our vision. Ezra seemed uneasy with the tension, shifting in his seat and clearing his throat awkwardly. "I don't really wanna talk about that anymore though," he said, bowing his head. "What about you? You always wanted to be a cop Corporal?"

I smirked slightly, straightening my posture and replying "No. Believe it or not, I actually used to be on the streets too. That is, until my foster mother adopted me. She's the one who inspired me to join the force."

Ezra glanced at one of the small picture frames on my desk, the one that held a picture of Depa and me in our first family photo. "She your foster ma?" he asked curiously.

I nodded slowly, reaching over and picking up the frame carefully as if it was glass. I stared at the photo for a long moment, getting lost in thought and memories.

There was the day she walked into the orphanage and examined each child with great care, before finally stopping at me and shooting a warm smile. "Hello young one. Mr Lufensa said you're a bit of a run away, but you look like a very charming young boy to me," she had said with a soothing tone…

The time I was sick and she made me steaming soup and buttered toast…

And the unforgettable day she handled me the official adoption papers to become a full-fledged family…

But suddenly, tears began to sting my eyes as a new memory blurred my vision. The gun fire… The screams… The blood… Depa's last haunting words as she held off the attacker just long enough for me to escape…

"Kanan," Ezra spoke, snapping his fingers right in front of my face.

I shook my head slightly, regaining my focus on the young teen. "Sorry… I just…"

"Drifted?" Ezra finished for me. He smiled lightly, saying "Don't worry. Happens to me too."

A small grin pulled at my lips, his comment making my chest feel lighter. But the teen's expression darkened, glancing down at the photo frame with haunted eyes. "She looks very nice," he murmured with a meek tone.

I forced back a wave of emotions, replying calmly "She was extremely caring. Always firm, yet gentle. She gave me hope when no-one else could…" I paused for a moment, taking a moment to centre myself, before adding "I couldn't have asked for a better parent."

Ezra's brows furrowed, his lips drawing into a thin line. I knew what he was thinking. I could see it in his questioning eyes. "She's gone," I stated bluntly, surprising the boy by answering his unspoken thought.

After he shook himself from his shock, he asked quietly "What happened?"

My muscles tensed at that. I had never really discussed the events of my beloved Mother's death to anyone, choosing to ignore the event rather than let it resurface. But Ezra's hazy blue eyes gleamed with curiosity, his expression soft and respectful. A small voice in the back of my mind urged me to relax, echoing in Depa's soothing voice. I frowned, licking my lips to regain the moisture in my mouth, before hesitating.

The light drained from Ezra's expression. "Sorry," he mumbled, shaking his head quickly and standing up. "Nevermind. I'll just go finish the rest of my homewo-"

"I was eighteen," I started quietly, my stare blank as I relived the memory. "I went to the convenience store to get some groceries, but then these Imperial men armed with guns came in and took everyone hostage."

Ezra's eyes widened, numbly sitting back in his chair and watching me intently while I continued. "Depa was the sheriff of the force at that time, and she was immediately on the case with her fellow workers. The Imperials held us on our knees at the back of the store, gun barrels resting on our heads…" I winced at the memory, inhaling sharply through my nose.

"Depa came in with her two comrades, 'Grey' and 'Styles'. They managed to disarm the Imperials and stop anyone from getting hurt, arresting the men soon after… I remember Depa bending down next to me with a small smile, saying 'Everything's okay now.'" I paused and glanced up at Ezra, adding "And I believed her."

My eyes began to sting, my chest constricting as I struggled to speak my next words. When I finally managed to talk, my voice was hoarse and shaky. "Then suddenly, Grey and Styles aimed their guns at us. Grey shot at me, but… Depa pushed me away… she took the shot…"

My vision blurred from my hot tears, a sob getting caught in my throat. I pressed my hands against my face and slumped back against my chair. All I needed was a moment to collect myself. C'mon Kanan. This was years ago. You gotta be strong… she would have wanted you to be strong…

Ezra was waiting patiently, watching me with an understanding expression. I finally pulled myself together, staring at the boy with piercing eyes before murmuring softly "I watched her die Ezra… I've never experienced something so painful in my life. And whenever I wear my uniform, I think of her. I just hope that I'm living up to what she would have wanted of me."

The boy thought deeply for a moment, before glancing up and mustering a weak smile. "Well, I think you're doing well," he offered sheepishly.

A dark weight lifted off my heart, a smile tugging at my lips. It was one thing to hear those words from someone like Hera, but hearing it from a reclusive, strong-willed, independent teenage orphan was a completely different story. "Well, I try," I smirked, reaching over and ruffling the boy's scruffy hair. Surprisingly, he chuckled at the action, swatting my hand away playfully with his cheeks tinging a rosy pink. The mood had shifted greatly, his guilty emotions and my stressful mind had calmed down to a peaceful state again. Things felt right.

"Boys!" Hera called from the kitchen. "Dinner's ready!"

I smiled, standing up with Ezra close in suit. I sighed gently, patting his back as we headed for the door. "So, we all good?"

He nodded sharply. "'Course Corporal," he taunted with a snigger. "Now let's go eat! I'm starvin'!"

Hey guys! Wow! Wasn't that emotional? I think I totally got over excited while writing this, and then I watched 'Legacy' earlier today and I was all like-

Considerate Fangirl: "Don't do it! I know what you're doing Inner Fangirl! YOU CAN'T MAKE HER SPOIL IT!"

Inner Fangirl: "TRY AND MAKE ME!"

*Two start punching each other and wresting on the ground*

…

I really need a holiday. XD

But anyways, I hope you guys enjoyed that chapter. I'm so excited for the next one because… well… you'll find out. ;D So, I hope you all have an amazing day and may the force be with you, always!

-Superherotiger

P.S The song that the Spirit boys were singing was 'Crazy' (acoustic version) by Simple Plan.