Hey guys! Okay, I'm sorry for the super long wait! I've just got a lot going on lately. And I just want to point out that I do have a life outside of fanfiction. *Gasps* I know, crazy right? XD But seriously, I have tons of things on my mind, what with school starting again and my travels coming up… but I really could use some positive encouragement right now. I know you guys want updates, but the best way to encourage me to write is with constructive comments. It would mean a lot to me guys. Okay? Everyone understand? We good? Good! Now let's get to the chapter! :D
Also guys, if your expectations are set to the standards of last chapter, you might want to significantly lower them. This chapter is no where near as intense, dramatic, or plot-driven as the last chapter, so just try to adjust to the normal expectations of chapters. ;D But hopefully you still enjoy it!
Q/A's and Reactions:
(Seriously guys. So many reviews last chapter and I was soooooo happy! You guys are amazing! :D)
Ezraismybae- #EzraNeedsHugs
Aquaquadrant- Aw, thanks! I'm so glad the last chapter was so exciting for everyone, and I hope you all enjoy this chapter too! :D
Guest- I guess you'll just have to find out. ;D
Miko Jasmine- *Rubs hands together* Yes, I'm so sneaky. Just wait till you see what I've got planned later. ;D
SOSI M4G1C- Thank you so much for that nice review! :D And I'm so glad to hear you liked the last chapter! :D
Ahsoka1996- I'm so glad to hear that! This story is personally my favourite of all the ones I've written so far. ;D
Spottedmask12- Sorry for the wait, but hopefully this chapter makes up for it! :D
Azulablue92- I know right? Giant bombshell! :D But here's the question: Is Ezra a bad guy? Or are the Spirits just misunderstood? (Technically that's two questions but… I think you get it XD)
Jedi Jelsa777- I'm so glad to hear it lived up to your expectations! And yes, I was completely blown away by your psychic powers! ;D
Spectre 13- Aw, thank you! And now with Zeb by his side, it'll make things a lot easier, and harder for Ezra. ;D
ZombieSpacePirate- Yes, the art of a plot twist is a truly brilliant thing, isn't it? XD
EmpressRullerofallthatisweird- You have no idea how much that means to me. It's really, really heart-warming to hear that. :D At the start it's a bit funny, because at that time I didn't know if this story was going to be plot driven or just fluffy chapters, but I'm so glad I chose to completely focus on the plot, and the plot alone. And it's made such an interesting story for everyone, and I'm so glad I get to continue it. :D
Akamaiwing- Zeb can be a really likable character, just depending on how you write him. ;D I took a lot of inspiration from my older brother for Zeb in the last chapter. :D
Guest- Wait no longer! :D
Paint the Fangirling Uniwolf- BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMM *Goes on for eternity*
Mana- All those questions will be answered in due course my friend. ;D
TomXD- Of course! :D
Alex Jarrus- Really? Dude! That's such an honour to me! That's so nice, and there's no way I could ever possibly be mad at you! :D
Rebels Lover- Dude, if you made a legal group like that, I'd totally join you! ;D And as for teaching you my ways, this is how you do it: Step 1, Grab the reader's expectations. Step 2, Throw it out the window. XD
The Silent Fury- Not weird, intelligent. It means you were probably picking up on all the little hints I've been dropping throughout the story, you little genius. ;D
Debra101- Aw, thank you! I hope you like this chapter then! :D It'll go a little bit deeper into Ezra's parents backstory, and hopefully clear a few more things up. ;D
DevilSPR- XD I hope you enjoy the chapter!
Midnight Luna- Inner fangirl- Busy, oh so busy. :( Well, I always tried to think of it like, the Imperials are the Empire, the Spirits are the Rebellion and the Police force are the Republic, if that makes sense. :D
AnimeAngel- Zebby… XD I might use that someday.
Guest- Aw, thanks so nice of you! Reviews like yours really make my day, because they just lift me up and make me inspired. :D
Catnip- Don't worry. Not all chapters will be that long. That one is just an exception. ;D
Septimus714- Well, I try. ;D
Weirdness47- Awesome! Well the wait is finally over! :D
EmilyBridger- Yes! I've seen the force Awakens and I thought it was awesome! And sure. I'm fine with you using the concept of the Spirits. Just as long as you know, it's not a carbon copy of it or anything. :D
Fantasie Adventura Dreamwriter- I'm so glad to hear you enjoyed it! I really do pour a lot of effort into these chapters. :D
Spectre14- Yes! Another one caught by surprise! And don't worry, you wouldn't be the first. ;D
Guest- I'll try to update as quickly as possible, my friend.
Guest- So glad to hear that! :D
Animal Lover-dream writer- Yeah, it does kind of suit him huh? :D
Guest- Glad to hear!
Guest- Getting to it as fast as I can.
Swagmaster- Aw, thank you so much! I'm so happy to hear you've been enjoying the story so far! :D
Guest- I don't want to leave your minds festering for too long, but as I said, I'm really busy at the moment. As they say, good things comes to those who wait.
Guest- Well we can't have that, now can we? :D
Coral Iturbe-Sí , loco Kanan. XD
Guest- Getting to it.
Guest- Like I said, I'm trying people. But I will be addressing this sort of thing at the bottom of this page.
DisneyandWIldKrattfangirl- I always thought a police job would suit Kanan. :D
Vanessa- I'm so glad to hear you're enjoying it! :D
(*Groans* Well that was long. XD)
Kanan's POV
I sighed deeply, rubbing circles into my temples to sooth my throbbing head. "Sabine!" Hera called from upstairs. "Have you packed your suitcase yet?"
"I'm almost done!" Sabine replied back, walking down the stair case tensely.
I shot a quick glance at the girl from the corner of my eye, before directing my attention back to the window. I watched the front yard intently, waiting for the Phantom to roll up any minute now. Light footsteps approached, and the couch dipped slightly as a new figured sat next to me. "He's coming back, right?" Sabine asked timidly.
I turned my head, gazing into those shadowed amber eyes. After a long moment, I mustered a weak smile and wrapped my arm around her shoulder. "Yeah. He'll be back soon," I assured, though not entirely certain myself. "Ezra and I just have to… discuss, some things."
"Why did he run away?" she asked curiously.
I sighed, allowing my eyes to slide shut. "It's complicated Sabine. There's things we still need to clarify and explain."
"But he'll stay now?" Sabine probed expectantly.
I winced slightly, not replying for a long moment since I knew my voice would come out uneven. It was a question I wish I knew the answer to, but unfortunately, it was up to Ezra's mood and attitude to the situation. Which likely wasn't very positive at this point in time.
Shaking my head, I patted Sabine's shoulder and replied "You should go get your stuff ready for camp."
Her lips pulled into a thin line, and she looked as if she was about to protest. But finally, she shook her head and stood up. "Yeah. I'll go pack my stuff," she said hastily, before scurrying away and up the stairs.
I sighed deeply, interlocking my hands and resting my chin a top my knuckles. Eyelids sliding shut, I allowed my unpleasant memories and thoughts to consume me…
I cradled the small child in my arms, rocking him back and forth gently. "Tomorrow, after the storm passes, I'll find you a good family," I whispered. "You'll have a good life. I promise."
Ocean blue eyes gazed up at me, confused and lonely. "Dadda," he mumbled.
Shaking my head, I replied "I'm not your Dad, but I'll find you a good one." I continued to rock the infant in my arms as the storm continued on outside, the strong clatter of rain on the shingles almost rhythmic to the ear. My expression softened as I stared down into the boy's tan, innocent face.
"Maybe we'll meet again someday," I said with a light, guilty smile. "You probably won't even remember me."
His only response was a thin line of dribble cascading from his lip, small fingers clawing into the fabric of my shirt. The wind howled, and a streak of lightning flashed from outside, followed by a thundering boom. Ezra, snapped from his serene state, wailed in distress and kicked his legs frantically. He attempted to burrow himself further into his blankets, but not before I managed to pick him up and hold him close to my chest, restraining his flailing arms. "It's okay," I whispered as I patted his back awkwardly. The child continued to sob, but began to calm with each passing moment, nuzzling his head into the crook of my neck and allowing the tension to release from his muscles.
"It's just a storm," I soothed, stroking his cheek with the back of my finger. "But you're safe… I'll make sure you're safe…"
"Kanan," Hera spoke, tearing me away from the unsettling memory.
I blinked rapidly a few times, before glancing up at Hera with wide eyes. She returned a sympathetic, gentle gaze, her expression warm and forgiving. "Ezra?" she asked, that one word able to sum up her entire question.
My chest ached, and the air seemed to go stale. I bowed my head, replying "I feel so guilty."
The woman slid down beside me, a hand resting on my back encouragingly. "Hun, it's not your fault," she assured.
"But it was," I sighed as I pressed my face into my hands. "If I had just kept him all those years ago, all of this could have been prevented."
"Kanan," Hera said firmly. "There's no way you could have known what was to come. You were just doing what you thought was right."
I straightened slightly and stared deep into Hera's emerald eyes, glimmering in the sun's morning rays. After Ezra had ran off last night, I had blurted the whole story to Hera. That night 14 years ago. How he was on my doorstep. How I took him to the adoption agency… How I had created what he had become…
"But," I rasped, my voice hitching. "I promised him he'd have a good life, all those years ago. I swore to find him a good home."
Hera smiled, massaging my back in soothing motions. "And you still can," she replied, hope beaming from her dazzling eyes. "You can, and you will live up to your word." Grasping my hand tightly in hers, she gave it a quick, reassuring squeeze.
"Just like you always do," she murmured.
I stared at her blankly, eyes welling with tears. Sighing, Hera leant her head against my shoulder as she rubbed some warmth into my cold hand. I closed my eyes, wrapping one arm around her waist and pulling her into a side hug. She didn't object. Neither of us did. We just took a moment to let the silence surround us and warm the ever so stagnant air. And for the slightest moment, my worries just slid off my shoulders, a peace I had not felt since Depa's passing heating up from within.
We sat there for what felt like an eternity, until heavy footsteps echoed from near the front door. I immediately shot up, searching for the blue-haired teen expectantly, but seeing yet a figure I was not anticipating. Hera glanced up too, slightly shocked when she saw the pale skinned male standing under the door frame. "Tseebo," she greeted as she rose to her feet. "I, didn't realise you were there."
Tseebo nodded, dark green eyes focused and electric, unlike the night before. "Sorry… I… I'm, very grateful for you letting me stay," he murmured sheepishly. "I know I've caused a bit of… uh, tension, in your household."
"That's very alright," Hera replied. "We couldn't just let you walk back out into that storm, now could we?"
Tseebo smiled, his cheeks tinging red as he combed a hand through his hair bashfully. "Yes… I… admit I was a bit tipsy last night," he said awkwardly. "You see, a few of my friends and I were out for a drink, and… let's just say I don't really tolerate alcohol very well. As shown by this horrible choice of hair dye." He frowned as he pointed to his florescent lime hair, exclaiming "I don't even remember getting this done, I swear!"
Hera mustered a small smile, before the room fell into silence. Tseebo adverted his gaze to the corners of the roof, while Hera just shifted from foot to foot nervously. "Would you like something to drink, Tseebo?" the woman suddenly offered. "A tea, or coffee?"
"Oh no. You've been kind enough already," he answered.
"No, really. I insist," Hera said.
Tseebo smiled, obviously realising he wasn't about to win any time soon. "A coffee, thank you," he said meekly.
Hera returned the gesture and nodded, swiftly exiting the room and heading for the kitchen. I slumped back in my seat, glancing back out the window blankly. The sun was shining, and any traces of the previous storm had been wiped clean from the now blue sky. Only the dew that sparkled on the lawn and the small puddles along the sidewalk remained.
Tseebo sat down in the armchair by the door, staring down at his hands with distaste. "Is he still gone?" he asked softly.
I glanced over at the male and nodded once, before shifting my attention back to the window. We stayed silent for a few moments longer, until Tseebo said "I'm so sorry… for driving him away. I didn't mean to just barge into your lives, but yesterday, when I saw the papers…" He trailed off, eyes wide and vacant.
I perked up. "Papers?" I quizzed, turning to face him more directly.
He nodded. "I got a job as a technician for the government a few years back, and a friend of mine works in the local adoption agency. So, I asked her if she could hack into the files, let me try to find Ezra… or more specifically, you," he explained.
I shot him a puzzled look, and he continued "See, I went back to the house I'd left him at, b-but you weren't there anymore. It was abandoned, so I did some investigating and digging over the years… but all of Ezra's adoption papers were dead ends… It was like he didn't even exist anymore…" Tseebo clasped his hands together and stared down at his scuffed shoes, ashamed.
"I-I wanted to find him, and explain to him that I was only trying to help…" he murmured. "I would have kept him if I could have but… they'd be after me… after him…"
My brows furrowed. "Who Tseebo?" I pried.
He glanced up with wide, haunted eyes, replying "Imperials."
"W-What? Why?" I asked.
Tseebo whimpered, holding his head in his hands as he rambled "I told them it was dangerous… I told the Bridger's not to do it… but they didn't listen…" He rocked himself back and forth slightly, his hands trembling. I decided not to push him for answers. He'd do it when he was ready.
After Tseebo had collected himself, he continued, his voice a mere whisper "The Bridger's would broadcast their opinion about the Imperials over the radio. They protested against their ways, and urged the people to stand up against them. But, as much as they rose hope, they rose anger, and hatred. The Imperials didn't take their word kindly, and…" His eyes began welling with tears, his voice shaky and hitching. "They came to the house one night… and t-they… they killed them… both of them…"
Tseebo clamped his two hands together and bowed his head. "That's why I was afraid," he mumbled. "I was afraid they'd come back to finish the job… so I fled…"
He glanced up, rasping "And that's why I was so relieved when I found a lead. My friend told me that Ezra was back in the system yesterday, and when I checked out your file, I realised you were the same one I'd originally left him with. I didn't dare look into it any further though. My plan was to just leave him be with his family, but… I remembered this." He reached into his jacket and pulled out an envelope, old and worn.
Tseebo held it as if it was the most fragile thing ever, staring down at it with pure awe. Smiling, he trailed a thin finger along the paper's edge. "They'd want him to have it," he whispered.
I stared at it intently, before asking "May I?"
He glanced up, face sceptical. But looking down at the object again, his exression softened. "They'd want him to have it," he repeated, voice so quiet it could drift in the wind. Tseebo sighed, clutching the envelope close to his heart, before walking over and handing me the letter.
Carefully, I took the object in my hands and examined it. The paper was thin from years of wear and tear, yet still held a great emotional weight along with it. My gaze settled on the tittle on the top, hand-written in curved, fine ink.
To our darling son, Ezra,
Love, Mummy and Daddy
"They asked me to give it to him, if anything were to happen," Tseebo explained. "It's for his 15th Birthday."
I frowned. "Birthday? When's that?"
"The last Friday of this month," Tseebo replied drearily. "I wanted to give it to him personally, but… seeing how he reacted, maybe it's best if I leave it with you."
I glanced up and noticed the uncertainty written on his face. Standing up, I rested my hand on his shoulder and mustered a weak smile. "I'll make sure he gets it Tseebo," I assured. "I promise I'll keep it safe."
Tseebo's expression brightened, and the heavy tension in the room lifted. "Thank you, Sir," he said, bowing gratefully. Checking the watch on his wrist, he suddenly gasped and exclaimed "Oh jeez! I'm late for work!"
He twisted around and bolted for the door just as Hera walked into the room with a mug of coffee, slightly startled. "Thank you for letting me stay, but I really must be going," Tseebo stated, both apologetic and frazzled at the same time.
"Of course," Hera complied.
Tseebo sighed in relief, shooting me a quick nod, before opening the front door and departing swiftly. Hera glanced over at me and shrugged, placing the mug of coffee on the table. "What's that?" she asked, gesturing to the letter.
I glanced down at envelope once again, before strolling over to the mantle above the fireplace and gently sitting it behind a photo frame of Hera, Zeb, Sabine and I together. Sighing, I grasped onto the edge of the thin plank of wood, clenching my eyes shut to stop any tears from forming. Hera stepped forward, taking her place by my side. "Hey," she whispered as her fingers entwined with mine.
Reluctantly, I opened my eyes and stared down into her bright, serene face. "We'll get through this," she smiled.
I scoffed light-heartedly, quipping "I'm always amazed by your hopefulness in dark times."
She arched a brow, before leaning forward and slipping her arms around my waist, holding me in her warm embrace. "That's why I'm here, Hun," she giggled. "…I'll always be here."
Inhaling sharply, I wrapped the woman in my arms and held her close. "I wouldn't want it any other way," I soothed into her ear.
The two of us remained silent, basking in each other's presence and getting lost in the moment. Time seemed to have slowed, and reality was just a dream in this strange state.
But before I knew it, the sound of a car engine sounded from outside. Hera and I both snapped up, and not a few moments after the door swung open. "We're back," Zeb called as the light poured into the hallway, two silhouettes, one small, one tall printed on the floor.
Hera immediately released me and bolted forward, and I wasn't too far behind. Ezra had only just stepped into the Ghost when Hera engulfed the teen in a bone-crushing hug. "Ezra!" she exclaimed. "I'm so glad you're back!"
Ezra gasped for air, squeaking "Good… to see… you too…"
But suddenly, Hera pulled back and snapped "Ezra Bridger! How dare you run away?! Do you have any idea how worried we were?!"
The boy winced, but his eyes were wide with awe. "You… w-were worried?" he stated numbly.
Hera planted her hands on her hips, brows furrowing. "Darn right we were! Did you know how dangerous it was to leave in that storm?! You could have been hit by a car, or got sick, or… heaven's know what!"
Ezra frowned and stared down at the floor. "Sorry, Hera," he mumbled.
"You'd better be sorry!" a new voice interjected. Sabine jumped down the stairs and punched Ezra with all her might on his shoulder. The boy yelped, stumbling backwards into Zeb who watched the scene silently. "Don't ever scare me like that again!" Sabine barked. "You almost gave me a heart attack when I heard!"
Ezra was slightly dazed, just staring at the girl with confused, fearful eyes. But realising this, Sabine's expression softened. "Ezra," she sighed. "I-"
"No, it's fine," he muttered, shaking his head quickly. "I understand… and I'm sorry."
Sabine smiled, her face brightening. "Well, you're back at least," she reasoned. "For good, I'm assuming."
Ezra's lack of response sent everyone on edge, except surprisingly, for Zeb. While the teen bowed his head and used his hair as a shield for his face, Zeb stepped forward and patted Ezra's shoulder softly. "Of course," he chuckled. "Ain't that right kid?"
Ezra huffed sharply, before replying dryly "Yeah." He glanced up with a brow arched. "Guess I don't really have a choice, do I?" he smirked.
Hera grinned, quipping "No. And you also won't be leaving this house besides from school for the next six days, because you're grounded."
Ezra's eyes widened in shock. "What?! You can't do that!" he exclaimed.
"Oh yes I will. In this house hold, you follow the rules. And when you're grounded, that means you're grounded," Hera ordered, voice firm.
Ezra glanced up at Zeb pleadingly, and Zeb shot the teen a sympathetic expression. The two seemed to be exchanging a conversation we couldn't understand as their gazes locked in a fierce staring competition. I gave the two a puzzled look as I watched from the back, not exactly wanting the heat of the matter to start rising again. After a tense moment, Zeb sighed and asked "What if he's under my supervision? Is it okay then?"
Hera obviously wasn't expecting that question. In fact, none of us were as we just stood there numbly, staring at the two with confusion. "U-Uh," Hera stuttered. "I… guess, that's okay?"
Ezra's eyes beamed with life, and Zeb nudged him in the ribs in a reassuring manner. Suddenly, Sabine cleared her throat and tapped her wrist towards Hera. Hera sighed, stating "Well I'll have to leave the discipline up to you boys because Sabine and I have to go soon."
"Go?" Ezra quizzed. "Go where?"
"Remember?" Sabine stepped forward. "I told you that Hera and I will be going away for a camp until this Friday."
"B-But you can't go," Ezra argued, a hint of urgency in his voice. "What about school, and my homework, and uh, m-my manner lessons?"
Hera smiled, replying calmly "I'm sure you'll do fine Ezra. Besides, you've still got Zeb and Kanan here with you."
Ezra nearly scowled at the sheer mention of my name, and any previous emotions were covered by a layer of deep distrust and anger. "Yeah, thanks for reminding me," he spat.
I winced, blood going cold. Zeb coughed dryly, shoving Ezra's shoulder and glaring at him. "Maybe you should go get into some fresh clothes, eh?" he suggested sternly, though it was more of a command than a question.
Ezra opened his mouth to retort, but was only met with a fierce stare from the older male. So begrudgingly, Ezra turned around and scurried up the stair case without another word. I almost ran after him, sprinting to the bottom of the stairs and about to call his name when a firm hand grasped onto my wrist. "Don't mate," Zeb sighed. "Not now."
I glanced over my shoulder, staring deep into Zeb's unusually wise eyes, before turning back to the stairs. "But I need to talk to him," I murmured, though it seemed more directed for myself.
Zeb released his grip on my arm and stepped back. "He's not ready Kanan," he pointed out. "And you know he's not."
My expression softened, and the tension released from my muscles. I didn't want to admit it, but Zeb was right. Ezra was too wrapped up in emotions to talk at the moment, and it was obvious if I tried to confront him it would most likely end in rash decisions and harsh words. "Can you talk to him then?" I asked Zeb hopefully. "You and him seem to be getting on lately, if I might point out."
Zeb shook his head, raising his hands in the air with a shrug. "Sorry mate. This one's on you," he smirked, heading up to the second floor. "But don't worry," he called back. "A few days of silent treatment and he'll be ready to talk. At least, that's what Sabine does."
"Hey! I don't do that!" Sabine protested.
Hera rolled her eyes. "There's breakfast in the kitchen for you boys when you're hungry!" she called up. "Sabine and I are leaving in half an hour, so I expect you clean, fed and presentable by the time we leave."
"I'll go check I've got everything," Sabine said, before bolting up the stairs and disappearing into her room.
I sighed, turning to Hera and pleading "Please don't go."
"You'll do fine Hun," Hera assured. "Just give Ezra some space until he's ready to talk. Okay?"
I scoffed. "And until then? After all, we're pretty much confined to the same area now."
Hera smiled slyly. "I'm sure you'll figure something out dear. Just think of it as a kind of… 'Men's week out', kind of thing."
I rolled my eyes and snarked "Great. Six days with a sarcastic 18 year old and an almost 15-year old male who hates my guts. What a fun week this is turning out to be."
Hera grinned, patting my back sympathetically as she walked away. "See. You already have the spirit down. You'll be fine."
Okay guys. So this is just going to be quick, because it's 2:30 am for me and I'm super tired. In fact, I'm so tired, this Author's note is going to be in a list:
Firstly, super sorry for the long wait.
Secondly, the reason these chapters take so long is because I take pride in the amount of effort I put into them. To me, quality beats quantity. If I'm not happy with a chapter, I doubt you readers would be either. So that's also why it took ages to update.
Thirdly, I hope this chapter cleared up some things about Ezra's parents and uh- 'OMG! What was in that letter?!' is probably what you were all thinking. Well, take a guess. ;D I'd love to hear what you think.
Next, thank you guys so much for your amazing support! It's been absolutely mind blowing, and there are no words to describe how happy each of your reviews make me. :D You all rule and deserve a pat on the back!
Lastly, I want to give a shoutout to my awesome friend AzulaBlue92, and their new story 'Run-in's with old demons'. It's really cool, and I think you guys will enjoy it just as much as I will. ;D
But that's all for now guys. I hope you enjoyed the chapter, and I also hope you have a great day! Now goodni-
Zzz
Zzz
Inner Fangirl- "Sorry guys. She's gone. She'll be back in the morning though. ;D Night everyone, and may the force be with you, always!"
-Superherotiger