HELLOOOOOO EVERYONE!

Wow! It's been such a long time since I last updated huh? I'd just like to take a moment to apologise for that. My life's been kind of… hectic, for the past few months.

I'll do a quick recap: My parents split up for a month, so I was in the completely wrong state of mind to be writing fanfictions. They got back together afterwards (though things are going south again), and for the past month we swung out to the centre of Australia (super-hot, tons of flies, but absolutely awesome)! So I was pretty preoccupied with that. Then I found out my sister is pregnant! (Yeah! I'm going to be an Aunty! SO EXCITED!)

There was a bunch of other little dramas that happened too but those were the main reasons I've been absent lately.

So I just want to thank you all for being so patient with me, and I really hope you enjoy this chapter! It is a bonus chapter, so it's not compulsory to the story but I just like to think it gives it a little bit more depth. ;D

Sadly this isn't a Super Bomb, but I promise, it's in the making and not too far away! :D

Today is actually my Birthday, hence why I've updated this story, because gee, you guys deserve it for waiting so long!

And also, not only am I giving you a bonus chapter, but I'm doing a little surprise at the bottom! That's right! In celebration of another year older, I'll be doing a one-off 'Q/A's and Reactions'! See you after the chapter! ;D

-May the force be with you, always!

BONUS CHAPTER:

The Legend of the Ghoul

Max's POV

I stared up at the roof blankly, turquoise orbs following the dust particles that whipped around above. The throb in my shoulder had lessened thanks to Zeb's icepack that still remained wedged under my makeshift sling, numbing the aching sting through my nerves. The moonlight from outside poured through the small, circular window with thick veils of shadows hiding the attic's features from view.

I took a sharp breath of the stagnant air and glanced over the edge of my hammock, my gaze fixing on the empty silhouette of the improvised bed across the room.

It was strangely quiet here.

Ezra's absence was becoming more and more of an impact on the other Spirits. Sooner or later they'd realise their leader was in no ordinary foster home, and with that would bring doubt of command and rejection. The other Founding Spectres had already twigged on to this abnormity, and they were keen for all the details of the situation. Byte was itching to break Ezra out, despite the fact I assured him he was in good hands. Hawk was gradually growing more anxious with each day. And Tales was becoming concerned as the freezing winter encroached.

They would ask me where the Phantom was, and my only reply would be 'Somewhere safe.'

But as my thoughts lingered on yesterday afternoon, as the vivid imagery of my younger brother breaking down into a sobbing mess reoccurred, I could feel the doubt swelling in my heart.

I hadn't seen Ezra cry like that for years. Sure, I was always there when he mourned over loss, but they were only short lived sessions. A mere few seconds, maybe a minute tops. But what I had seen yesterday was something else. A complete shattering of the soul. Crushing of the heart. Whatever that family had done to him, they had managed to tear down his emotional barriers within mere weeks. An achievement I had only reached due to the fact I was within his mental shields before he had a chance to barricade his emotions.

But as this dawned on me I began to ponder, thinking back to all the years we'd spent together. Triumph and defeat, gain and loss. We had stuck it out together through thick and thin.

I smirked slightly, reminiscing on the day we met.

That was almost 8 years ago, but to me, it was as if it were yesterday…

…Eight years before…

I paced forward, head low, shoulders hunched, hood up.

The chances of getting caught were high, but the chances of starvation were worse.

I hadn't eaten in four days since I came to this blasted city and my patience was wearing thin. Lothal was nothing but a festering pit of judgemental commoners, aggressive police officers and suffering homeless. Even the Imperials chose to invade this emotionless void!

But that didn't matter to me. All I needed was some food for the road and then I'd be off again. Travelling the country with nothing tying me down!

If I was lucky I'd be able to sneak on to the last bus to Garel and then slip off before anyone realised. And hopefully, Garel would have much more to offer than this dump.

The morning sun wove through the stalls as vendors started preparing their products for the Sunday markets, clusters of interested buyers already beginning to form. I smirked under the brim of my shadowed, brown cloak and scanned my surroundings with a keen eye. All I needed was an opening. A weak link. The slightest distraction even.

Finally, my gaze settled on a teenage boy packing fruit on a stall to the left. He fumbled with the apples, and his brow was creased in concentration as he carefully placed each one with extreme care.

I grinned. Bingo.

Rolling my shoulders, I headed down the narrow lane, winding through the increasing crowd and acting as casual as possible. After all, I was just a kid. Who'd be expecting a nine year old to steal anyways?

I strolled patiently, eying down the jewellery in the store beside my target as if to look interested in something else. And from the corner of my eye I could see the teen clumsily dropping a few peaches, scrambling to pick them up before his father noticed. That's where I made my move, twisting on my heel and stalking forward. The male had just gotten to his feet with the retrieved peaches and a few other varieties of fruit until I suddenly slammed into him, sending both of us to the cement floor.

"I'm so sorry!" I exclaimed in an innocent, childish voice. "Here, let me help you."

I got to my knees and scooped up three pieces before hastily stuffing them into the pockets of my jacket. The boy was still dazed slightly as he rubbed his head with a groan. "W-What?" he stuttered.

I grabbed the rest of the fruit and shoved into his arms roughly. "Sorry again Mister," I waved as I jumped to my feet and paced nervously away from the stall.

Elbowing my way through the trickle of people, I felt the hairs on my neck stand on end as I counted each breathless second. If no-one said anything within five seconds, then I knew I'd gotten away home free.

…One…

…Two…

…Thre-

"Hey you!" Someone from behind barked.

Instinct was to bolt, attention was now fixed in my direction, and all I could think about was the approaching danger. If they caught me I'd be dead. They'd ask who my parents were, and to that I'd have no reply. They'd ask my name, but it was only a ghost. And sooner or later they'd catch on. The run-way son would be returned to his rightful home.

But I swore I'd never look back…

And so I didn't.

As quick as the wind I was on my feet, sprinting past people's legs with adrenaline flowing through my veins. I didn't even care how many eyes were watching as I dashed through the crowd mindlessly. The cries of surprise and confusion grew as I ran, but the booming voice of the original speaker was beginning to fade, his voice getting carried with the gentle summer breeze.

Soon enough I'd made it to the edge of the markets, fleeing for dear life in the fear someone would catch me. I didn't stop. Not for a second.

I turned through side alleys and dirty backstreets with fixed determination as my cloak flowed behind me like water. The sunlight dimmed slightly and the colours of the city drained as I fled into what locals referred to as 'the dark side' of town.

The further I ventured the darker it became. Buildings were broken down and abandoned, poor and homeless sat in the shadowed streets with emotionless expressions. The air in this place seemed strained and smoggy, the thick scent of sewer water lingering heavily over its roads as trash littered the streets in clusters.

It must have seemed odd to the surrounding unfortunates as they watched a nine year old boy scrambling through the open city like a chicken with no head. But then again, I would have found it quite amusing.

After a few more twists I made a sharp turn into an alley and pressed my back against the brick wall. My chest stung with each inhale as I tried desperately to catch my breath, finally allowing my muscles to unravel as sweat fell from the tip of my nose.

My lips curled into a triumphant smile as I laughed between each pant. "Didn't even, get ta three, an' I still made it," I snickered weakly.

Once I'd recovered from the panic and the remaining energy had left my system, I straightened my back and stretched my limbs out casually. "That's right people, numba' one right here."

Suddenly, there was a bang.

I jumped away from the source and stared with wide, alert eyes, whipping out my knife swiftly. My gaze was now fixed on the large dumpster as I waited anxiously for another movement. Another sound. I wasn't one to engage in a brawl, but if the time came, I sure was one heck of a fighter.

Then something flew in my direction.

I swerved to my right just in time to watch the discarded tin can blur past my vision, my nine-year old mind unsure what to think about the object as it skidded across the cement behind me. I blinked once, before turning my attention back to the dumpster with a curious expression. More pieces of rubbish had fallen to its sides and there was faint banging coming from inside.

Slowly, I began to step forward, each stride silent and deliberate. I still had the knife at my side but, for some strange reason I felt no danger ahead.

Once I had made it to beside the large trash can, I cautiously glanced over the edge.

And there, in the middle of the decomposing grime and towering junk, sat a little, blue-haired boy. He was rummaging through the trash ravenously as he searched for something he couldn't find, his hazy blue eyes scanning over the colourless filth. His skin was tanned - or maybe it was just dirt - and his clothes were worn and tattered, blending into the rubbish he sat in. I tested the air and immediately recoiled. It was either him or the dumpster, but whatever it was it stunk!

My brows furrowed slightly as I took in his condition.

Weak arms, skinny bones, pale face, scrawny hands. Yep. All the signs of malnutrition. My mother had warned me of the dangers, but only now did I fully understand what she meant.

The child had been morphed into something unrecognisable. A mindless, starving animal.

It pained me to watch.

The boy suddenly gasped, his expression beaming with joy as he dragged something from its filthy tomb. I inwardly scowled when I realised he had retrieved a scrap of stale, mouldy bread.

'Surely he wouldn't eat that,' I assured myself.

But he didn't even hesitate in shoving it into his mouth, devouring every last crumb within an inch of its life.

"Aw sick!" I exclaimed in disgust.

Both of us froze, staring at one another with wide, surprised eyes. He swallowed the bread – if it could even be classified as that anymore – and clutched onto his upper shoulder absentmindedly. Intrigued, I noted how his arms had instinctively wrapped around his chest, and his body had curled into itself with subtle shudders.

Finally, after a tense moment, I laughed nervously and stuttered "Uh, d-did I say that aloud? W-Whoops."

"P-Please don't hurt me," he rasped, his voice scratchy and hoarse.

The humour drained from my voice, and I gazed back into his eyes with sharper focus. The fog had cleared from those vibrant blue orbs as I watched electricity spark around his dilated pupils. He looked so innocent. So helpless. So…

Afraid.

I felt my fingertips numb when it dawned on me that, what he was afraid of, what he feared, was me.

He thought I was going to hurt him. Granted that was a fair assumption if you were an orphan living in this part of town, but still. The way he was looking at me, just waiting for me to attack almost, it kind of hurt. Sure I was rough around the edges but, I wasn't a monster.

Expression softening, I replied "I… I'm not going to hurt you kid."

He didn't seemed convinced as he remained completely rigid, his fingernails digging into the fabric of his thin shirt. I sighed, before mustering a weary smile and soothing "Wanna come out of there, an' then maybe we can talk?"

He flinched, but made no other movements.

"Uh-h-h…" I shifted awkwardly for a moment. "Oh wait! I got it!" Reaching into my pockets I pulled out one of the apples I had snagged from earlier and offered it out to the child. "I bet cha hungry, huh?"

Suddenly, his piercing stare became entranced onto the fruit, his mouth practically drooling as he gazed on it with large, hollow eyes.

I smiled, waving it around in gentle motions to attract his attention. "Come on kid, I know you wan' it," I quipped. "Just take it. I swear I won't hurt ya."

His expression was a picture of conflicting emotion as his eyes flickered from me to the apple repetitively. But as I'd predicted the child eventually caved to his needs. Fingers twitching, the boy bit his lip and slowly crept forward, crawling on all fours over the trash beneath him. He reached out hesitantly, his anxious gaze fixed on me as his fingers grew ever closer. And finally, as soon as he was in range, he snatched the apple and scrambled backwards.

I watched him in pure shock as he teared the ripe flesh away in powerful bites, the clear juice trailing down his chin as he devoured it like a vulture. Half-way through his little feasting he remembered my presence and glanced up, speaking through a mouthful of apple "Tank oo' mister."

My surprise became an amused smirk as I nodded my head in acknowledgement and turned to walk away. "No problem little guy," I called, giving a brief wave over my shoulder as I strolled towards the street. "You take care of ya self-"

"Wait!" a small voice squeaked.

I paused and glanced over my shoulder, watching curiously as the small child clumsily lowered himself from the dumpster and twirled to face me. "I… I-I need sleep," he stammered softly, suddenly losing all confidence. Gazing down at his bare, dirty feet, he mumbled "I haven't s-slept in days… it's not safe to sleep around here."

My expression softened slightly, and I suggested "Maybe you can go sleep near other orphans. They should be trustworthy."

The boy shook his head sharply and explained in fear "No sir, Imperials controls this side of town… T-They do horrible things to people like me…"

I turned my body to face him directly, my brows furrowing in concentration as I tried to think of a solution. "You can't sleep somewhere on the other side of town?"

"People there don't like me. They call me names, they move away if I sit too close. Sometimes I can hear them whispering… feel them staring…"

At this I felt saddened. Obviously the kid had had a bad run of encounters with other people, but I shouldn't have been surprised considering how much I hated this city too. They were just so self-centred and egotistical. Heck, there probably were a few good apples out there, just not enough to outweigh the sour ones.

I took a deep breath and cleared my mind.

He was just a little kid. Too young to be out on his own. Which, didn't exactly make sense because I must have been only a few years older than him, yet I was doing fine alone.

And yet, somehow, when I looked at him, I felt the strong urge to protect.

I didn't understand why. There was just some part of me that was so… willing to shelter whatever innocence still remained within him before it was tainted or stolen. Maybe I hoped that, even though my time was gone… I could still find him a better life…

I clenched my eyes shut and sighed, starting to walk away from the child. But this time, he didn't protest. Maybe he thought there was no point in fighting. Maybe he'd faced disappointment one too many times.

"Come on kid, times a wastin'."

At first there was no reply, causing me to glance over my shoulder and gaze at the orphan who stared back at me with wide, startled eyes. "What're you waiting for, a kick up the bum?" I teased with a slight eye-roll. "You comin' or not?"

He blinked once, before suddenly sprinting forward in glee. He was at my side in seconds, his eyes dazzling in the smoggy sunlight as his face brightened in awe. "T-Thank you sir… I… I-I'm not sure what to say," he admitted sheepishly.

"Don't say anything kid, it's no problem," I replied.

The child still had the half-eaten apple in his hand, and as we strolled through the roads he quickly resumed devouring it. It was gone within a minute, and then he looked up at me with lively eyes, smiling with glee.

I don't think I'd ever seen a child smile so widely.

We continued on our way in silence, and as we approached the border of the light side the child asked "So, where are we going?"

"Well, I know a place that'll let ya sleep there safely," I answered casually. "But first, we have to do something else."

He tilted his head curiously, unsure what I meant.

"You've gotta have a bath," I smirked. "Cause geez kid, you reek!"

"Mister," the boy whispered, tugging on the corner of my cloak. "I'm not supposed to be here."

"What'd you mean?" I quizzed as we strolled into Central Park.

"Th-They'll kick us out if they find us."

I shrugged off his statement confidently and continued forward, much to the child's dismay. And even though he was anxious as all hell, he still kept to my side, the little shadow that followed in my footsteps wearily.

Central Park was beautiful, with large, towering trees and lush green grass. The air was so much cleaner here, and the breeze was welcoming to the touch. People walked around or sat at the clean tables with their families and friends without a care in the world, laughing with each other as they had picnics on the ground. It was a nice place, I had to admit.

But I also knew our presence was forbidden.

I wasn't stupid. I could see how people's expressions changed as we walked by. I knew they were staring. Judging.

It was obvious in the way the boy acted that he knew this too, his eyes twitching and head held low. I on the other hand journeyed on with pride, my chin high and chest puffed out. As if I'd let the opinions of others deter me from my own goals.

Suddenly, I felt another tug on my cloak, this time a little bit harder. My eyes flickered down at the child as he gazed back at me with wide, petrified eyes. "P-Please sir," he whispered, oh so faintly. "I don't want to go back…"

I pressed my lips together in a thin line, my brows creasing. I almost didn't want to know what he meant by that.

But nevertheless I didn't stop walking, and instead did the one thing I knew I could do.

Gently, I wrapped my arm around his shoulder and pulled him into my side. He was shocked by the movement at first, practically frozen, but after a few moments I felt his muscles loosen under my touch. Immediately I felt his anxiety lower as I continued to reassure him in a secure embrace, pulling the corner of my cloak over his slender frame.

"Don't be afraid," I murmured softly, my tone gentle and soothing, just like my mother's. "You'll be okay, I promise…"

And with that he didn't question me anymore. Together we walked onwards through the winding gravel path, ignoring the many eyes that followed us on the way.

Finally, after a few minutes or so we approached a large clearing with giant oak trees creating a perimeter, their branches reaching for the sky. In the middle was a magnificent fountain, carved with elegant fish that spouted water from their mouths into the pond below.

I smiled. "Here we are!" I announced to the boy.

He gave me a puzzled look and broke away from my touch. "I don't get it."

"Aw, come on. Don't tell me you've never showered in a fountain before," I snickered, walking up to the rim of the feature and throwing my cloak to the side. I pulled my shirt off and placed it with my cloak, before jumping into the clear, freezing water without hesitation.

My first reaction was a bone chilling gasp, before calling out to the boy with chittering teeth "C-C-Come on K-Kid… It's r-r-refreshing!"

He stalked forward carefully, not at all enticed by my offer as he stared at the crystal water. He leant over the edge of the pond and dipped his hand in, before immediately scowling and glancing back at me doubtfully.

"Aw, i-it's not that bad once you get u-used to it. Just j-jump in," I coaxed playfully.

He pursed his lips and pouted, until finally, after chiding him for another few minutes, he reluctantly took off his own layers and rested them to the side.

But my expression stilled when I saw his bare skin.

All over his torso were deep, red marks. Scars. Cuts. Bruises. It looked like a crime scene. His ribs were clearly visible but his sides were black and blue, and his arms had many faded scratches and blisters. One particularly bad wound looked like an infected burn on his upper left shoulder, festering and inflamed.

Mother would have been mortified.

He must have noticed my attitude shift though as he self-consciously hugged his chest to hide the majority of the injuries from view.

It took me a few seconds to snap back, shaking my head and saying, still in partial shock, "Uh… what'cha waitin' for kid? Jump in already!"

He was hesitant, but sat on the edge and swung his legs into the pond.

Immediately he cried out and pulled his feet away. "It's freezing!" he exclaimed.

"Nah, this is warm!" I teased as I waded around in the chilly water.

I could see I was aggravating him, so slowly making my way to in front of him, I bent down and cooed "Aw, come on grumpy face. I'm just havin' a little fun."

He blew stray hairs out of his face and huffed "You said you'd get me somewhere to sleep. Not to freeze me in a fountain."

"Well, aren't you just a lil' ray of sunshine?" I scoffed. "Where's you sense of adventure?"

He lowered his gaze to the water with a frown. "I lost that long ago…" he muttered sourly.

My expression loosened into a gentle smile, and I brushed his mangy fringe away from his face. He glanced up at me with those vibrant eyes and pouted. I smirked. "There's always a bit a light in e'ryone. No matter what you've been through. You've just gotta-" I reached forward and tickled him lightly on the stomach, the only part of his body that didn't have a visible bruise. And to my great surprise, he giggled childishly, smacking my hands away with a snort.

I grinned, tickling him again and stating "Oh wait… I think I see it."

He laughed uncontrollably and tried to push me away as I continued to tickle him relentlessly. "Do you see it? I think I see it!"

"H-ha! Stop it!" he forced through each outburst.

Finally, I stopped torturing the boy and ruffled his scruffy hair with a smirk, saying warmly "There it is... There's the light."

He was still chuckling, his laughter slowly receding as he stared at me with electric blue eyes. He smiled and flashed his crooked, sharp teeth, but I didn't care. I didn't care about his bruised and battered skin, or the dirt in his nails, or even the stench that wafted from his old, overgrown clothes. Well… maybe the last one.

But in my eyes, I couldn't see why anyone could not love someone as adorable as him.

I rose to my full height and asked "So, you gonna get in kid?"

He stared up at me with trust and confidence, before slowly working his way into the water with a chilling hiss. Once he was waist deep, I led him over towards one of the fish and placed him under the spout of water. He yelped when the water hit his head but I was sure to reassure him as we playfully rough-housed around. He didn't realise I was actually gleaning his mop of hair as we wrestled, or how I was carefully pushing his inflamed wounds into the cooling water to numb them. He just thought we were having fun.

I wondered when the last time he'd had that was.

Holding the boy in a weak headlock, we laughed as he tried to squirm his way out of my grasp. His laughter rung loud through the trees as we played, and joy resonated through our souls with each cheerful burst.

But suddenly, we both froze.

"STREET RATS!" someone roared. "GET OUTTA THE FOUNTAIN!"

I glanced to the right to see a ranger dressed in green sprinting towards us, his face carved with anger and his eyes fuming intensely.

The boy froze under my touch, and he grasped onto my arm tightly. "N-No! I-I can't go back!" he gasped, petrified.

I didn't speak a word, taking his wrist in my hand and dragging him out of the pond. The water splashed around us as I practically threw him over the edge and scrambled to grab the clothes. Once I was out, I dashed for one of the paths, our clothing in one hand and the boy's arm in the other.

As we ran I slipped my shirt over my head and clipped my cloak back on, the kid desperately pulling his too-small shirt over his chest.

I could hear the ranger shouting at us from behind, gradually gaining as we pushed our frames to the breaking point.

It wouldn't be much longer till he was on top of us.

But I could also feel the child slowing, his weight becoming a bigger strain on my arm as we ran. "I-I can't… keep… going…" he panted, his body exhausted.

My brows furrowed in concentration, and I suddenly pushed him forward and grabbed him by the waist. He yelped in pain as I threw him up over my head and onto my back. It was definitely a risky move, especially considering he didn't know me that well, but I knew I could last longer in this marathon than he could.

He was now clinging onto my back like a monkey, his arms wrapped around my neck in a constricting squeeze. "Warning next time?!" he snapped.

"Bark at me once we're in the clear!" I growled, making a sharp right into the tree line in a last ditch attempt to lose the ranger.

But the man wasn't deterred, still on our tail as we bolted through the artificial forest. Now carrying both our weight I was able to keep just ahead of him, but I knew he was probably much faster than I, and after not eating for four days, my own energy was almost depleted.

My lungs began to sting with each inhale and I felt the blood pumping through my veins.

"Hey!" the kid called into my ear. "Do you have any more fruit?!"

"Seriously?! You wanna eat now?!" I exclaimed.

"Just give it to me!"

In a flurry I pulled the second apple from my jacket and held it up to him. "What now?!"

"Take a bite!" he instructed.

I did as ordered before he snatched it from my hand and took a chomp of his own. Then, he glanced over his shoulder and yelled to the ranger "Eat it, Lothalian trash!" Suddenly he pegged the apple at the man with incredible force, hitting him square in the forehead and causing him to spiral backwards onto the sharp gravel.

I gawked in amazement, before laughing proudly and sticking my tongue out at the ranger that was slowly disappearing into the distance.

We stayed on the run until we made it to a low hedge, signalling the border of the park. I vaulted over it was ease and sprinted away in triumph. Once we were a few streets away I slowed down to a jog, and finally a gentle stroll, still carrying the boy on my back.

I could see his tired face in the corner of my eye, his eyelids drooping lazily.

Smirking, I admired "That was quick thinkin' kid. You're pretty smart."

He smiled wearily, yawning. "Couldn't have done it without you though…"

"Well, it was a team effort I guess," I replied.

There was a short silence, before I pointed out "You know, I never caught your name kid."

"Hm… that's for the best…" he murmured softly.

"Aw, come on, don't you trust me?"

He scoffed. "I don't even know your name."

"You never asked," I retorted smugly.

He rolled his eyes, and after a hesitant pause, he spoke meekly "Ezra… My name's Ezra."

I smiled. "Not a bad name kiddo."

"How about you?"

"The name's Maximus," I answered warmly. "But you can call me Max."

I continued to carry the half-asleep child through the streets to my planned destination, both of us dripping wet but definitely less stinky than before. I just hoped we were clean enough to be let in now.

Turning the final corner, I glanced up at the large building and smiled.

The library was by far one of the best pieces of architecture I'd seen in Lothal, with shimmering glazed panels, colourfully painted murals on the walls and a neat, orderly entrance. The grass was a beautiful shade of green and the sun's bright rays enlightened the structure with an appealing glow. It was welcoming anyone in with open arms.

Inhaling sharply, I trekked forward along the paved path towards the doors, two glass panels sliding away as we approached. A wave of cool air hit our skin as I stepped inside, sending a shiver up Ezra's spine as he stirred from his slumber. He blinked sluggishly and yawned, mumbling "Mm… Where are we?"

"We're at the library," I whispered softly as I made a B-line for the front desk. "Don't worry, I've got everything under control."

"Hm… you said that last time," he mused sleepily.

I rolled my eyes and muttered under my breath "I think I liked you better when you were asleep-"

"Well, if it isn't my little friend again," a warm voice sung.

My face immediately brightened when I saw the lady sitting behind the desk. Her silver-grey hair twinkled in the artificial light and her wrinkled face was pulled into a comforting smile. Big green eyes hidden behind humorously oversized glasses followed us as I nodded my head in a gentle greeting.

"Patricia," I replied with glee. "It's good to see you again."

She smiled, quizzing "Back so soon my young friend? And with a guest, no less."

"Oh, right," I blushed, gesturing to the sleepy child and explaining "This is Ezra. He needs a safe place to sleep."

Patricia sighed heavily and brushed loose hairs back into her tight bun. "Child, I told you, that was only because it was raining that day," she said drearily. "I can't just let any orphan who wants refuge to sleep inside here."

"Please Patricia, I promise I wouldn't ask if it wasn't desperate," I stated.

"I'm sorry. But I can't just let you waltz in whenever you please."

"I'll never ask again, I swear, but I just really need this Ma'am, please!" I bartered pitifully.

"I'm sorry, I can't-"

"Ma'am, just hear me out," I cut her off in a hushed tone, so not to wake Ezra. Glancing over my shoulder to assure myself he was asleep, I turned back to the old lady and pleaded "I… he just needs somewhere to sleep, even for a few hours. Please Patricia. I'll… do volunteer work for a week even! Whatever it takes. Just please, I'm begging you, let him stay for a little while."

We stared at each other intently for what felt like forever, my eyes wide and innocent.

Until finally, like I expected, she caved in and sighed softly. She gestured to the staff room behind her and said "You know the drill."

My face beamed with pride as I quickly bolted around the side of the desk and made my way into the small staff room. Inside was a cosy little area, with a fridge and sink in the corner, a coffee table in the middle and a soft lounge against the wall. It was simple and confined, but it was safe.

Relaxing my aching muscles, I paced over to the couch and laid the drowsy boy onto the cushions. He rolled onto the soft material with a moan, obvious that he'd finally hit rock bottom. I quickly grabbed the spare blanket that was sitting on the edge of the seat and wrapped it over his shivering frame. He was still a bit damp after our little adventure at Central Park, but his clothes had soaked up most of the moisture.

Exhausted myself, I slid down the side of the lounge and onto the carpeted floor with a sigh. My shoulders were aching and my calves stung like they'd been burnt by hot coals. But, leaning against the comfortable furniture, the tension unravelled from my bones.

Silence consumed the room for a good twenty minutes, all of which could be heard being Ezra's soft breathing.

But for some reason I couldn't close my eyes. I was just staring at the door with laser vision, preparing myself for if any danger were to come in.

It was strange. I had been here two days ago when a freak storm blew over Lothal, and Patricia had been kind enough to let me stay until the rains passed. Yet, I had been in the exact same room on the exact same lounge and I didn't have a single concern. So why was I suddenly so on edge?

I glanced over my shoulder at the child and jumped, shocked to see he was staring at me with those piercing, blue eyes.

"Heck kid, how long have you been staring at me like that?!" I hissed, partly out of surprise and the other out of embarrassment.

Ezra flinched at my tone, his cheeks tinging red. "Sorry…" he whispered faintly.

I rolled my eyes and quizzed "I thought you were tired. Why aren't you asleep yet?"

His gaze lowered, and he snuggled into his blanket in an attempt to recoil. My brows fell into an unconvinced frown as I spoke with a warning tone "Ezra."

He glanced up at me meekly with his lips pressed thinly together, but I still couldn't pin the difference between the emotion he was showing, and the emotion he was actually feeling. I arched a brow and added "You know I won't judge."

Ezra breathed a heavy sigh, before after a tense moment, he admitted quietly "I… wanted to make sure you didn't leave…"

My brows furrowed, and I replied defensively "Now why in the hell would I do that?"

"I-I don't know! I… I wasn't sure if you were gonan be like…" his voice faded into silence, eyes wide and vacant.

I felt my features soften as I let his words absorb in, before finishing softy for him "Like everybody else that left you behind?"

He hesitated, before nodding his head sharply.

I released a deep sigh and slouched against the lounge. The kid was just worried I'd ditch him. Poor thing. So expectant of the worst he couldn't even envision a positive outcome if he tried.

Glancing over at him, I asked curiously "Do you always stare at people you're close to?"

He blushed profusely and retorted "N-No! I-I just… wasn't sure, I… I-I'm never sure…" He paused for a moment, his voice going dark as he murmured "At least, not anymore…"

I raised my hand and placed it on his shoulder, causing him to wince and pull away ever so slightly. I frowned in deep concentration and finally asked the question I'd been curious about since I met the young boy.

"Who did it?"

Ezra froze, his eyes going cold. "W-What?" he rasped.

"You know what I mean," I repeated in a firm, yet, caring tone. "Who did it to you Ezra?"

I could see something trigger inside him, tears welling in his eyes as his breathing picked up shakily. "I-I don't know w-what you're-"

"Kid, I'm a doctor," I assured, until correcting "At least… my mother was a doctor. And I know abuse when I see it."

His face went blank, and I spoke again, this time softer "So Kid, tell me your story."

Time had frozen in place as we stared at each other, neither flinching away from the other's gaze. This dragged on for what felt like an eternity, until again, like I'd predicted, Ezra finally sighed in defeat and shifted his darkened gaze to the blanket.

"His name was Dwayne," he began meekly.

"I was his adopted son for seven years. Ever since I was a baby, actually. I don't know what happened to my parents. Sometimes I wonder why they left me there, just to one day I'd end up with him."

"Dwayne was fat, and strong," he described sourly. "He would drink every night, and I think the only reason he kept me around was because he was paid by the government for adopting me."

"I… still remember those nights though…"

Ezra paused for a moment, before continuing with a still tone "I… I used to sit in my room under my bed… because I was so afraid…"

"He would call out for me, shouting, t-telling me if I didn't show myself he'd kill me… If I told him he'd been drinking too much, he'd punch me… I-If I came out of hiding he'd throw me in the basement until the morning… If he caught me hiding…" His voice faded.

I could see the tears glistening in the corners of his eyes as he let out a strained exhale. Gently, I rubbed his arm with my hand in an attempt to sooth him. But it didn't seem to work.

"One time he found me…" Ezra whispered, softly, fearfully. "He pulled me out and slammed me into the wall… said I was trash… a waste of air…"

"Then he… h-he took off his belt and…"

Ezra's mouth closed slowly. "That was the first time he whipped me…"

"…It was the first time of many…"

"Gee kid," I winced, stroking his arm carefully so not to hurt him. "I… I'm sorry, I didn't know…"

He glanced up at me, his face void of emotion as he finished swiftly "A few months ago I turned seven. I ran away the night before my Birthday, treated myself with the gift of freedom, I guess. But I still see him sometimes, in my nightmares. I'm too afraid to close my eyes not because I could get killed… but because I might wake up in that house again. Because he might find me again."

My face softened as I watched the boy sympathetically. "Ezra…" I soothed, the one time in my life where I was at a loss for words. "I… I'm so sorry."

Emotion flooded back into his features as he sniffled and ducked his head away in shame, pulling the blankets up to cover some of his face. "It's not your fault Max," he croaked, rubbing the tears from his eyes. "You didn't even know me before today. It's not your burden."

"I know kid, I just… wish I could help somehow," I said.

Ezra continued rubbing his face as he flipped the question and asked "So, what about you?"

I shrugged nonchalantly and dismissed "Eh, my life isn't that interesting. Parents broke up. Father walked out. Mother got distracted. I ran away. Hitch hiked the country for 4 months and-"

"You travelled the country for four months?" Ezra piped up curiously, distracting himself from his traumatic past.

"Well, it's more like I was on the run, but yeah, you could say that," I replied.

"Cool! Are you still travelling?"

"Yep. Next stop is Garel," I smirked. "I was hoping to sneak on to the late bus, if I don't get caught, that is."

Ezra grinned, but then, his smile began to fade. I furrowed my brows nervously as I watched his joy peeling away again. "What's wrong kid?" I asked warmly.

His big, blue eyes shifted, and he answered "You… You're leaving…"

My eyes shot open in surprise. I hadn't even realised my words, but it dawned on me that I had just openly admitted I was going. Adding me to the long list of names who had abandoned the child.

I pressed my lips together and began thinking about the future once I'd realised this.

I couldn't just leave him here like this. You couldn't even pay me to.

I couldn't take him travelling with me. Hitch-hiking around as a 9 year old was already difficult enough, let alone with a 7 year old too.

So what other option was there?

I gazed into his vibrant eyes, and he stared back at me.

Then I felt it. A strong connection, a bond.

The protectiveness, the laughter, the compassion. I couldn't remember the last time I'd felt so alive!

I'd have to be a fool to give that up, right?

So right then, right there, I made the decision that would change my life forever.

Raising my hand from Ezra's arm to his head, I gently ran my fingers through his damp, navy hair, ignoring his slight wince from the contact. I smiled ever so slightly and relaxed against the side of the lounge. "I'm not leaving," I soothed.

His eyes widened slowly as he stuttered "W-What?"

I smirked at his reaction and continued to stroke his head.

"A-Are you serious?" he pressed again after a moment of shock. "Y-You're not just pulling my leg?"

"Nope. I'm staying here, with you."

"But w-what about your travels?" he quizzed.

I smiled warmly and explained "I've seen enough of this world. It's 'bout time my days of endless wandering stops." I paused for a moment, before adding softly "Maybe you can bring some purpose back to my life, Ezra."

The boy froze, the fact I was being serious finally settling in.

"You're staying…" he whispered in awe.

"For the last time kid, I'm not jok-"

Suddenly the boy lunged forward and wrapped his arms tightly around my neck in a compassionate embrace. "Thank you!" he exclaimed with a sob. "T-Thank you, so much…"

I was completely rigid as I tried to register what had just happened, but after a few moments, I coiled my arms loosely around his back in a weak hug. We stayed like that for a long time, and for once in many years, I felt at peace.

Months of being on the road, searching for a reason, a purpose in this world. And finally I had found it.

I couldn't see Ezra's face, but I heard his muffled, joyful weeps as he buried his head into the fabric of my cloak. He squeezed me tightly and wheezed "Y-You know… I always wanted a brother…"

My expression stilled. A brother? I'd never been called that before. I… didn't know what it was like to have a sibling.

But if this is what it felt like, then maybe that was the piece of me that I had been missing all along.

Nuzzling my head against his, I smiled and whispered softly "Me too kid… me too…"

Hey, hey, hey!

Wow! How long has it been since I last did this? Far too long in my opinion! :D I really do miss doing Q/A's with you guys, I feel like I've really been slacking lately with connecting with all of you and I'm so sorry. :(

So, let's connect right now! I have three questions that I'm going to answer right here, and I'd absolutely love you to tell me your answers!

I always read everyone's reviews, and I want you to know I love you all so much and appreciate your support with all my heart! Every time I get a review I grin, and every time I hear from one of you it makes me glow!

Now I'm going to stop rambling! Here's the three questions for you (plus my answers)!

First, what has been your favourite episode of Rebels season 3 so far and why?

(My Answer: Holocrons of Fate is still my all-time favourite because (SPOILER ALERT) that Kanan and Ezra hug just gave me all the feelz! :D)

Second, what do you think of my newly updated avatar/profile?

(My Answer: I made it, so this is kind of a stupid question. Who on Earth would think of such a dumb quest- *Realises it was me* XD)

Lastly, how have you been lately? I'd love to know!

(My Answer: I've been pretty good lately! Also super excited because it's my B-Day today!)

Now it's your turn! Write your answers in your review and tell me what you thought of the chapter! :D I always love feedback!

Onto the Q/A's and Reactions!

Q/A's

Why does Kallus hate the Spirits?

A common theme with a lot of the commoners of Lothal is that they're very judgemental. So just like them, Kallus sees the Spirits as society's low-lives. They have no value to him. No use. Unlike the Rebels version, this Kallus is very self-centred and emotionally detached. If they're in the way, or the key to his riches, Kallus won't care what he has to get through to achieve it. But who knows. Maybe he has another motive up his sleeve. ;)

What's Hera's job?

She's a reporter for the local newspaper. She gets all the juicy gossip and takes photos/writes about it in the paper. Ironic really, considering Ezra's living with not only a policeman, the enemy of the Spirits, but a media publisher, who also could compromise his identity. Ha.

What is the song Kanan sings?

'Safe and Sound' by Taylor Swift.

How could Depa (Kanan's mother) play violin and sing at the same time?

I'll be honest, when I wrote it I didn't actually realise it was a problem, but after doing some research I conclude that there's something called a shoulder rest, or something along those lines. It's like a brace for the violin so it's not pressed against throat and instead is balanced on your shoulder. If you look up violin and singing on Youtube you should find some examples of violin playing + singing at the same time. Hope that helps!

Reactions:

Starlight Moon Midnight- I'm so glad to hear you enjoyed it! :D Always love reading your reviews man!

Guest- Yay! I'm so glad to hear! Hopefully this chapter satisfied the loving emotion factor! ;D

Guest- Yeah! I'd been so excited for that chapter! It was a great turning point. As for your suggestion, I love it! It's just I already have an idea in mind, so I won't be able to use that. Sorry!

Guest- I think everyone wants a Dad like Kanan! :D And may the force be with you my friend!

Guest- That's an awesome idea, I just have no clue how I'd be able to fit it into the story smoothly. :/ If an opportunity pops up I'll be more than likely to fit it in though! :D

Neshina Yei- Don't worry about that. I think you'll all quite enjoy this story's climax. ;D

Guest- Kanan's so wise. :D #MasterJarrus

Charm1355- Aw, I'm so happy to hear it lived up to your expectations! And yeah, my inner fangirl is so fragile lately it cries in every Rebels episode for no good reason! XD

Spectre14- I know, I love that song too! So many feelz. :D And yes, that will be a very, very interesting day, won't it. ;D

Guest- #FamousLastWords

Guest- Oh yeah, certainly! There are some crooked people in this universe.

Fear14- So many questions, such little updates. XD No but in all seriousness, I promise all your questions will be answered… eventually. ;)

Guest- Aw, thank you!

SoccerArtist7- Really? Aw, that's so sweet of you! Your review made my day! :D

Rebels Lover- Duuuuuuuuuude! Long-time no see! I've been missing your reviews so much! :D Now, my reaction to your review: Yes! The day has finally come! Everyone rejoice! *Throws confetti around* XD And the song is 'Safe and Sound' by Taylor Swift. :)

AU Dreamer- Yes, all the paths are slowly colliding. But when and how? You'll just have to find out. ;D

Guest- Yeah, bet you weren't expecting to wait twice as long thing time. XD

Midnight Luna- Inner fangirl: "Bro, bro, BRO! It's been so long since we last talked I miss you so much! sdfbskKJBFSKD-" *Tiger puts Fangirl outside and locks the door* I'll let her calm down for a while XD. But seriously, I have actually missed talking to you. And I checked out the sleeping song and now it's one of my new favourites in the mellow/lullaby category! :D

Skypeoplephoenix732- The first two questions are answered in the Q/A's section, and I'm so glad to hear you enjoyed it! And the fallout? *Rubs hands together deviously and slides into the shadows* Just you wait. Muhahahah!

Fear14- Déjà vu lol

Techfish- Wow! It makes me really proud to know I've converted a non-au reader to like my AU ha! And yeah! Kanan is my favourite character so I take a lot of care in trying to nail his personality in this story. (I know he's actually pretty different to the real Rebels Kanan, but I feel like my portrayal is his inner space dad ;D) Glad to hear you enjoyed it!

Coral Iturbe- I'm so sorry, I don't have access to a translator at the moment! But, judging from all the capitals I'm assuming you're happy? Hopefully you enjoyed this chapter just as much then! :D

DevilSPR- The feelz are realz!

TheUltimateAngela- Aw, that's just so kind of you to say that! I'm just so glad I can write these stories for others to enjoy as well and hopefully make their day like you guys make mine! :D

Jedi Jelsa777- Sorry it's only a bonus chapter, but I promise in the next Super Bomb we'll be picking up from where we left off! :D

Gator- I try.

Randomness47- As is the way of irony. XD

Schyrsivochter- Sorry for such a long wait! Hopefully, (fingers crossed) this chapter was enough to make up for the giant gap?

Mana- *Reads idea when it first comes out* *immediately wants to implement into story* Damn dude, that's an awesome suggestion! I'll see what I can do! ;D

Lilyflower101- Silly, silly Ezra. He under-estimates the true potential of a jinx!

Ezrafan61- Would love to actually, but that's a lot of chapters I'd have to redo in Kanan's POV. And lots of the main plot points, like Zeb finding out about Ezra, and Max's interactions with Ezra, would be missed if I did it all from Kanan's view. But still, it's not a bad idea for the future. :)

Swagmaster4000- Yeah, super sorry about the whole infrequent updates thing. If you read my Author's Note at the top of the page, it explains why I've been so behind with updates. The next one shouldn't be as long though, if all goes well. :D

Future Teacher- Wow! You got through 17 chapters in one day? That deserves a medal! :D

Guest- It's in my DNA ;D

Guest- Well I guess you'll just have to wait and see my friend ;D

Guest- Yes, one day, everything will be put into balance! :D

Meadow Heart- Aw, I'm so glad to hear that! And yes, I'll definitely have to check it out in my spare time. :D

Starloverrebel- Well you're just in time for the next update! ;D

…

Wow guys! I had heaps of fun doing this 'Q/A's and Reactions' and hopefully you enjoyed it too! Again, thank you for all your amazing support! You have no idea how much it means to me! :D And don't forget to answer the three questions above!

As always everyone, have an amazing day and may the force be with you, ALWAYS!

-Superherotiger