The Light in the Dark

by Superherotiger

Real life AU. Kanan and Hera are known for bringing the light out of dark pasts, but that may not be the case with their new foster child, Ezra Bridger. With a shadowed history, Ezra has a lot to learn from his new family. Through mistakes and forgiveness, family always prevails.

24. The Star Gaze

BOOM!

Super Bomb V has just been set off everyone!

That's right, after over a year of waiting, every story is finally getting a much deserved update! Now, just as a heads up, this chapter is extremely long. Like, insanely long. I considered splitting it up but I couldn't find the right place to do it so, I guess it might be one of those read-it-over-a-week chapters ha! Future chapters won't be this long I promise, I just a got carried away with this one! Anyways, I really hope you enjoyed it. If I'm being honest this chapter wasn't even part of the original plan, and then it's ending completely changed from what was planned as well. But hopefully it's changed for the better, and you guys enjoy it!

I wanted to make sure it was perfect… you've all been so caring and patient with me it's the least I could do to repay you. I hope you know that I really appreciate every message you guys send my way. I always feel so bad that the updates are so far apart, and I really hope I haven't left it to late to give you this next chapter. Life has been difficult but it's startling to look up now! I almost have my license, I'm going to be a legal adult by the end of the year, and my sister is having another baby!

I'm so excited for this new chapter in my life to begin, and I hope you'll come along with me. May the force be with you, always!

-Superherotiger

…

Notes with my Spectres

Guest- That's alright! I know the updates are infrequent but I'm of the belief that quality is better than quantity. Hope you enjoy the chapter!

ItsJustABook- Trust me, this one is going to (hopefully) blow your mind!

Guest- Good question! Probably not for another few chapters, but I do have them coming back so it's all good! :D

IWantColouredRain- Thank you! Hope your holidays were good!

Raven J- Glad to hear you like it!

Midnight Luna- LUNA! *Throws myself back at you* I've missed you too bud! And dude, you have to tell me the story with the squirrel costume XD Inner Fangirl: "BOI! DID YOU SEE THE END OF REBELS! RIPPED MY HEART OUT!" Sorry, she's still crying about the finale. No spoilers though in case you didn't see it! And yes dude, You're going to get a cameo in this story I swear!

Guest101- Yes! Ezra's got a plan for Sabine, and now you finally get to see what it is! :D And dude, did you see the finale of rebels? I am an emotion wreck!

Ian Tophernicus- Hey Ian! Oh my gosh, you have no idea how long I've been wanting to reply to this beautiful review of yours. The day I read it I cried, because it was honestly the sweetest thing anyone has written to me before. Thank you for taking the time to write that review, it means the world to me that you enjoy my story enough to write such an in-depth piece. There is no need to apologise at all Ian, you have truly made my day with your amazing words. I hope this chapter will give you the same sense of excitement as before, and that it will make up for over a year without updates. May the force be with you Ian, always!

- ¡Buen trabajo! Me alegra que lo hayas disfrutado, y espero que este capítulo sea igual de bueno. ¡Dedos cruzados!

Millythecatlover- Thank you! The Super Bomb took a while but it's finally ready!

Tolazytologin- Aw, thank you! That's so sweet of you!

AU Writer Girl- *Evil laughter* No spoilers for you my friend! All will be revealed in good time! :D

Animal Lover-Dream Writer- You've been waiting for an update far too long my friend! Here's a new update to make up for it! And I'm so glad to hear you like me story enough to re-read it! I hope the wait wasn't too agonising!

Jedi Jelsa777- Thank you so much! Hopefully you enjoy this chapter too!

Guest- Aw, I'm glad to hear! I try to make them as high quality as possible!

Paulina- No don't worry I understand! I'm so glad you're enjoying it!

Sapphire Amethyst Isle- Sorry to leave you hanging for so long! I try me best to make the next wait shorter!

JediFlashDemigod- I'm so glad to hear you like it! Sorry about that. In Australia you're allowed to drink once you're 18, so I just assumed Zeb could start drinking aha!

Midnight523- Thank you! Hopefully this chapter is worth the wait!

PetaZedrok- AHH! Thank you so much!

Guest- Aw, thanks! I try my best! Hope you have a good day too!

Guest- Right now! :D

Guest- That's sweet! I try my best to bring the most interesting stories to life! Hopefully it's worked :D

Guest- Oh no! I don't want you all to die, so I'd better update fast!

Prophecy Of The Old- No, you're amazing!

ZombieSpacePirate- I'm so glad to hear that! I hope you enjoy this chapter as well! :D

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…

Sabine's POV

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I turned to my side, the wooden frame of the bed creaking at my unrest.

The room was shrouded in darkness, and the painted walls and colourful murals seemed dull in the dim glow of moonlight from outside the window. A cool breeze wafted across my skin, but I didn't feel the chill. I didn't feel anything, in fact. I was completely and utterly, empty.

Shifting my gaze across the roof, my eyes fixed onto the painting directly above my head.

It was a simple tribute to the family I'd grown to love, with Kanan, Hera, Zeb, and even Ezra held in a headlock by the older boy. I had added the blue haired orphan to the mural not long after he'd joined the crew, specifically the day after he stood up to that bully in my defence. It was an act of loyalty, one he continued to show in the weeks that followed, treating me as an equal, and as a friend. And for that reason I thought it was only fitting to include him in the painting.

In fact all of them had proven their friendship over the two years I had stayed with the family.

When I first met Kanan, leading him on a wild chase through the streets after trying to steal some food, he hadn't treated me like a thief, but rather someone who was lost and in need of guidance. I had only been planning to linger in the city long enough to regain my energy after running away from my border school back in Mandalore, where my parents had dumped me and the Imperials reigned over the city from the shadows. So not knowing my way around the new town, I had accidentally trapped myself in a dead-end alley, the officer blocking my only escape. But he didn't approach, even as I spat sharp insults at him.

'We don't have to fight,' I remember him saying. 'I can help you.'

'I don't need help by the likes of you,' my words had tumbled out, eyes narrowed into slits.

His teal gaze was gentle and understanding, stating rationally 'The nights get cold here, in Lothal. Without proper shelter you'll freeze to death. I can help-'

'I'll take my chances with the cold," I hissed, fully aware that if he arrested me and learnt my true identity, I'd be shipped back to Mandalore without a second thought. And I would never let that happen, not after everything I'd seen...

But the officer didn't falter, quickly gazing over me before he observed 'You're Mandalorian.'

I scowled at the man.

'I can tell by the way you hold yourself,' he said calmly. 'You're bold, and fierce, and strengthened with pride.'

I remained silent, but continued to glare at him with sharpened vision.

'But even though you're stubborn, I also know Mandalorians aren't stupid,' he added, gesturing to the towering, grey alleys as he spoke 'So you can stay here, with no shelter and no source of warmth. The snow is unforgiving, and some people in this town can be colder than the temperature.'

I paused, my muscles bunching up tensely.

'Or,' he continued, his voice softening. 'You can come with me. I'll take you back to the station, and see if there's any available foster parents that would take you in-'

'I'm not joining any foster family!' I hissed, switching back to an offensive at the mere suggestion.

'You don't have to stay with them,' he explained coolly. 'You can just stay the night, and once morning comes, you're free to be back on your way.'

My body froze for a few seconds, before I arched my brow suspiciously. It all seemed a little too good to be true, and I wasn't about to be stabbed in the back once more.

'Why would you do that?' I growled.

His teal gaze clouded for a moment, darkened with memories as he glanced up at the abandoned, looming structures above. He seemed lost, and somewhat saddened, before he finally returned his gaze to me, and spoke softly 'Because I remember sleeping in these streets when I was a kid. And I remember wishing someone, anyone had offered me a house, or a bed, or a blanket, just for one night.'

My anger stilled, and I immediately felt the adrenaline seep from my veins. I could see from the haunted look in his eyes that he was telling the truth, and the comforting warmth in his tone that he did genuinely want to help. Allowing my shoulders to sag in exhaustion, I took a deep breath and thought over my options with extreme care.

'No questions?' I finally asked, levelling my gaze with his.

'None what so ever,' he replied, adding lightly 'Not even a name.'

Thinking over it for a few moments, I finally made my decision. And with that, I'd reluctantly approached the officer, shaking his hand to confirm the deal. By the time we'd made it back to the station and he'd contacted suitable foster parents, I realised my trust in the man was far more than that of anyone else I'd encountered in the town. And when the foster parents arrived, and Kanan shook my hand goodbye, I found myself hesitating.

And as if understanding my thoughts, he'd offered his home instead, where he and his partner fostered abused and orphaned children with open arms.

I accepted his offer to stay the night. One night became two, and two became three. Days turned to weeks as I continued to prolong my leave anxiously, until by the end of the month, Kanan and Hera sat me down and proposed an idea.

The idea to become their foster child.

I took their offer willingly, and from there on my life became brighter than ever. They never pried or questioned, always allowing me to tell them things in my own time. They gave me so many opportunities and freedoms, and with each passing day my hardened exterior soften towards a more optimistic, carefree teenager. I'd grown to love art and music, and often found myself getting lost in the colours and sounds as a way to forget my former life.

I was a new person now, so much more different to the girl who'd stumbled through the streets two years ago...

But as I stared at another figure in the middle of the mural above, gazing down at me with bright hazel eyes and a cheerful smirk, I felt my muscles tense. I almost didn't recognise her, as the bright glow of her stare had disappeared in my own. The image reflected myself like a mirror and yet I seemed to be staring at a stranger.

Or maybe, I was the stranger...

Shifting uncomfortably under the eyes of my family -or at least, my old one-, I shrugged off the layers of blankets and sat up. The cool air hit me immediately, the hairs on my arm standing on end as I stretched and gracefully rose to my feet.

Standing in the centre of my room, I couldn't help but feel my chest ache when my eyes scanned the walls of the space. End to end, it was painted and coloured with some form of artwork, engulfing the room with clashes and swirls of paint that wound together like the waves of an ocean. And the figures I once imprinted onto the walls to express my joy now only enlightened my sorrow within.

I couldn't bear to look at it anymore. The place that had been my home, my life for the past two years lacked the sensation of safety it once possessed. My nerves began to buzz as I anxiously shifted to foot to foot.

This wasn't right...

I needed to leave.

But where could I go?

There was no-where left to hide…

I jumped when a faint knock on my door vibrated through the stagnant air. For a long moment I just stared at the handle, oxygen trapped in my lungs as I tensed my legs to run. But forcing my mind to calm I reminded myself that there was no reason to run from whoever was behind the door. It could only be someone from the family, and hence there was no reason for alarm.

Composing myself, I stepped forward and took hold of the door handle before cautiously creaking it open.

I was surprised to see a pair of ocean blue eyes gazing back at me, widening the gap a bit more to get a clear view of the boy's face. "Ezra?" I murmured softly, tilting my head in confusion.

He pressed a finger to his lips as a signal to be quiet and gestured towards my room. Understanding quickly, I stepped to the side and allowed him inside, gracefully sliding into the room as I shut the door behind him. Turning to face my guest I watched curiously as he approached my window, jiggling the hinges carefully and tapping on the lock.

Crossing my arms I asked sharply "What are you doing?"

"Seeing if your window is as secure as mine," he replied nonchalantly, running his fingers along the rim.

I blinked in surprise, before approaching the distracted teen and hissing "Are you trying to run away?!"

"No," he smirked, glancing over at me with a mischievous gleam in his eyes. "We're running away."

I froze. "We're what?!"

"Only for the night of course. Corporal would kill me if I ever tried to run agai- Ah, bingo!" he grinned, cutting himself off as his fingers found a grove in the frame and pried it open with a sharp jolt.

I was surprised to find it had made hardly any noise, the window sliding open with no resistance. Stunned and a little confused, I watch blankly as the boy climbed through the window and onto the tiled, sloping roof beyond. Gazing back at me, he gave me a puzzled look. "Well?" he asked.

I scoffed, replying "Are you serious?"

"Completely," he smiled, leaning against the frame as he added swiftly "Now get dressed into something plain and old, I'll be waiting on the ground for you."

Stepping forward I muttered "We can't just leave!"

"Why not?" He quizzed.

I hesitated for a moment, before replying firmly "I have to go tomorrow, you know that."

"So what's wrong with going out for the night?" He quipped, his eyes beaming with electricity as he spoke "We'll be back before they know it."

My brows furrowed sceptically.

"Aw, come on," he spoke, gazing towards the city that shone beyond the suburbs before asking "Surely you want to blow off some steam before tomorrow?"

"What makes you think that?" I growled lightly.

"Would you be awake at two in the morning otherwise?" He pointed out sharply.

My eyes narrowing, I turned my gaze around the dull room. The shadows shifted along the walls, and the colours seemed flat and unappealing. I wouldn't be able to sleep... Not like this. I was far too wound up to rest, and old habits began creeping back as my anxiety took hold of my limbs.

I knew I needed to go to bed. Tomorrow was a big day, and this was the last night I'd ever spend with the crew...

And yet I found myself turning towards the boy, his blue orbs focused on me intently as he awaited my answer. Crossing my arms, I stated firmly "I'll be down in two minutes."

His lip tilted into a lopsided smile, replying cockily "Knew you'd come to your senses eventually."

I rolled my eyes at his retort, before asking sharply "So where exactly are we going?"

He stepped away from the windowsill with great care and began to descend the roof. But just before he went to slide down a drainpipe, he shot me a playful smirk and replied "It wouldn't be a surprise if I told you now, would it?"

---

…

---

Wind spiralled through my short locks as Ezra and I ran across the cemented walkways of the suburbs, hot breath sending the winter air into clouds of mist with each exhale.

"So," I puffed, readjusting the backpack Ezra had given me on my shoulder. "Care to explain where we're going yet? Or what's in the bags?"

He glanced over his shoulder and winked, replying nonchalantly "Think of it as a party of sorts, and the bags are our gifts."

"Somehow I don't believe you," I smirked light-heartedly. "Who's going to be there?"

"Only the most... Uh, how do I put it?" He mused, gradually slowing his pace as we approached the boarder of the city. He tapped on his chin carefully, before snapping his fingers and exclaiming "Eccentric! The most eccentric people in the city!"

Jogging beside him, I commented playfully "Who knew you could use words that big, huh?"

He blinked in surprise at my sharp jab, before chuckling and retorting "Who knew you could actually be funny!"

I shoved his shoulder with a blazing grin, snapping "Funnier than you!"

He rolled his eyes lightly and remarked "And sensitive it seems too. What's with the sudden bite?"

"What do you mean?" I quizzed, the two of us finally slowing to a brisk walk as we entered the lit-up streets of Lothal.

"You've been sarcastic and snappy with me pretty much the whole trip. Usually I wouldn't care but you know," he said with a casual shrug of his shoulders. "It's just not like you. I mean, you weren't even speaking to me the other day, but now you're ready to bite back at my jokes?"

My brows furrowed as he explained my behaviour, unable to see how drastically my moods had swung over the past week. I rummaged through my memories, finding what he said was true in that my attitude, words, even personality had been inconsistent and volatile.

But to my surprise, I realised I only acted like that in front of Ezra though.

For everyone else, I managed to stay in control, chain down whatever was so desperately trying to get to the surface. And yet when near the teen, I found my walls breaking down and allowing the moods and shifts to take control. Sometimes I would be sarcastic. Sometimes shut off. Even a few moments I had been aggressive with him too. Like he was the one person I wasn't afraid to release my demons in front of.

The crease in my forehead only tightened as I lingered on this fact.

I hadn't known the teen that long. In fact, I felt like I hardly knew anything about him besides our occasional banter and light-hearted jokes. We never talked heart to heart. He never talked about his past. I never talked about mine. We were casual friends, someone to mess around with or play games together.

So why was I being so open around him, even if I wasn't intending too?

I couldn't seem to find the answer.

But when I glanced up into his concerned, shimmering eyes, I felt a wave of security overcome me. His posture was held high and his face had taken on a serious demeanour, shifting his presence from a timid orphan to a gentle guardian.

I was startled at the sensation, the boy seeming like an entirely different person just by the mere energy he was radiating.

It was warm.

It was safe.

It was trusting...

Snapped out of my shock by a gentle nudge, Ezra asked softly "You alright?"

I shook my head swiftly and replied "Yeah, yeah I'm fine. Just blanked out for a moment."

"Well don't worry, where we're going you'll have plenty to think about," he hummed with a smile as we continued our journey through the quiet streets.

Crossing yet another intersection, I gave a cautious glance into the backpack Ezra had given me, and immediately perked up in surprise. "Food?" I asked the boy beside me.

He cocked his head, hesitating for a moment before replying nervously "Yeah... It's, it's for the party... The guests haven't eaten in a while..."

"How did you get it?" I spoke curiously with a gesture to his own backpack, which I assumed was also filled with food.

He shifted anxiously, his eyes darting back and forth as we continued down a side street. "I've been saving my packed lunches," he explained meekly.

"What have you been eating then?" I replied, slightly concerned to hear he hadn't been having his meals.

"Anything that wouldn't last till tonight," he spoke, his face brightening as he added "But it's all worth it. Trust me."

I opened my mouth to form a retort, something along the lines of how it wasn't a very trustworthy thing to run away in the middle of the night without telling your friend where you were going, but found my words fading as I realised my surroundings. The buildings were quiet, and the street lights cast an eerie glow throughout the streets, flickering out every now and again. Shadows danced in the corners of my vision, but whether they were simple silhouettes or actual figures, I couldn't tell. The distinct smell of sewer and decomposing garbage stung at my nostrils as I immediately tensed my muscles. This place, these smells, this creeping anxiety in my gut, I knew it. It was the one place my family had always warned me of, the one place I was forbidden to go to.

It was the dark side.

"Ezra," I whispered urgently, glancing around in alarm. "This is the Dark Side of town!"

"I know," he replied nonchalantly.

Slapping his shoulder I hissed "Did you forget what happened the last time I followed you here? I'd rather not go through that again."

"You won't," the boy said encouragingly.

"Oh yeah," I muttered. "What makes you so sure?"

He turned, his eyes flashing with a clarity I had never seen before. "Because you have me," he spoke, his voice steady and secure.

I was surprised by the warmth in his tone, his comforting voice ridding the anxiety tingling down my spine. We were halted underneath one of the only stable lights in the street, almost hypnotised in the depths of his ocean orbs as he spoke reassuringly "Trust me Sabine. I wouldn't have brought you here if I didn't think you could handle it."

Reluctantly, I released a sigh and replied "Alright, alright… I trust you."

His lip tilted in a smile and with a confident nod he glanced up at the light above, a yellow gleam radiating from his tan skin. A few moments passed, and when I realised he wasn't planning on walking anywhere, I asked curiously "What are we waiting for?"

"Directions," he answered swiftly.

I perked up, startled, before snapping "You mean you don't know where we're going?"

Ezra shrugged. "The Spirits change where it is each time, so I've just got to find out where."

"Spirits?" I repeated numbly. "What on earth are you talking about?"

The boy flinched, as if realising he had just let something slip, before turning his gaze back to mine and explaining calmly "Yeah, the Spirit's are holding a Star Gaze tonight. Anyone can go, it's basically just for some food and games."

"Then why are we going?" I quizzed, shivering from the cold. "Aren't they criminals or something?"

Anger flared in Ezra's eyes as he shot back "They're not criminals. They help people in need, unlike others who just want to pretend there isn't even a problem in Lothal."

Recoiling at the heat of his frustration, I didn't dare reply. Kanan hadn't told me much about his new role in the force, but Hera had let us know he was one of the lead investigators for the Spirit's case, the ones chasing down the mysterious street gang. From what I'd been told they robbed stores and hijacked trucks, but Ezra seemed to think otherwise. Perhaps it was different for him. Growing up on the streets I'm sure he must have loved the idea of the hooded vigilantes coming to the rescue, sharing around stolen food like a modern robin hood. I imagined he would hold a lot of respect for them…

"Sorry," I finally spoke, breaking the uncomfortable tension. "I… didn't mean to offend you."

The tension leaked from Ezra's muscles almost immediately as he sighed deeply. "No, no, it's fine," he replied with a shake of his head. "It just gets frustrating sometimes when people assume things without ever seeking out the truth themselves."

"I'm sure it is," I spoke softly, resting my hand on the boy's shoulder.

There was a small twitch of his eye at the contact but he didn't object, and I noted that he had gotten much better since the day we first met. I still remembered when he got into a fight with Zeb over the older boy punching his shoulder, not realising it was just a playful gesture. I would laugh if I thought they hadn't been serious, but I couldn't rid the memory of their wild tussle, their roars and screeches still fresh in my mind.

He would getter better over time though, and someday, he'd realise he wouldn't need to lash out at those around him.

A comfortable silence settled between us as we waited for these hidden directions, my teeth chattering as each minute ticked by. Ezra seemed undisturbed by the chill but I however felt every shift of the wind, tugging my jacket tighter around my torso. The air had an icy bite tonight, sharp and dry, with the heavy sense of snow to come. Winter would be brutal this year, I could tell.

"Not that I'll be here for winter," I thought bitterly.

"Geez, I hope whatever you're looking for shows up soon," I grumbled, rubbing my hands together to warm my numb fingertips. "I'll be an ice-cube by the time it gets here."

The boy shot me an unimpressed gaze, replying "Pfft, it's not even that cold."

"For you maybe," I quipped with another gust of mist. "I'd much prefer sitting in front of the fire thanks."

Ezra rolled his eyes exasperatedly. "Yeah, yeah, well we don't all get-"

Suddenly he perked up, his eyes flashing as he caught sight of something above us. I followed his stare, and immediately gasped at the sight of two cloaked figures peering down at us from the top of the street light.

Their eyes beamed with curiosity, and it took all my strength to hold their intense stares as my muscles tightened in alarm. But Ezra's hand rested reassuringly on my arm as the boy whispered softly "Don't worry, they're Spirits Sabine. They won't hurt you."

"Y-You're sure?" I stuttered, desperately trying to hold on to Ezra's awed description as the two figures stared at me with piercing gazes.

Ezra flinched at my question, blurting swiftly "They would never hurt anyone! Think of them like... Like the buskers you met on the street that day after school! They're just like them, they just don't play music."

My eyes widened in realisation, and remembering the charismatic musicians and their exotic tunes, I felt my nerves settle slightly.

Ezra seemed pleased at my reaction, raising his eyes to the figures above and adding fondly "They are guardians. They look out for people like us, and they'll make sure no one gets hurt tonight."

At Ezra's words and the softened gazes of the cloaked Spirits, I felt the tension unravel from my muscles as my fear quickly shifted to curiosity. Not wanting to seem rude I waved awkwardly at the boys, unsure how to greet the eerily silent teens. They tilted their heads in reply, as if they had never seen such an action, before smiling in the dim yellow light and waving back.

Feeling encouraged by their pleasant response, I called "Hey there, I'm Sabine."

They didn't reply, but the slightly larger boy nodded his head in acknowledgement.

"Don't worry, they're just shy," Ezra said warmly.

Facing the boy beside me I quizzed "Do you know them?"

He shrugged his shoulders and adverted his gaze, murmuring "Not personally... But everyone on this side of town know who the Spirits are."

I shifted my gaze back to the figures above, balancing precariously on the pole of the streetlight as they gazed upon us with observant eyes. They seemed intrigued by us, and I realised that we must have seemed strangely out of place in the deserted streets surrounding us. But the larger teen of the two, with broad shoulders and a square jaw, spoke first, his voice hoarse as he said "You must be new around here, right? I don't think I've seen you before."

"Oh no, I just don't go to the dark si-" I began, before Ezra cut me off and stated "She's a traveller from out of town, met her yesterday. She hasn't eaten for a while and I was hoping you'd have some food to spare?"

The Spirit peered at the boy with an entranced gaze, something familiar flashing in his hazel eyes before his stoic expression concealed it a moment later. "Yes," he started, his words delayed in deep thought. "We... The Spirits, are holding what we call a Star Gaze two blocks from here. It's a night for the homeless here to get some food and water, but you're welcome to join."

"There's music and games too," the younger one chimed in, his face beaming in delight as he mused "The buskers play the most amazing songs!"

Grinning, I called "I know! I heard them playing in the street once, I'd love to meet them."

"Of course, I'm sure they'd enjoy some more company," the older boy said encouragingly. Pointing down the abandoned street, he explained "Keep heading forward till you come to the bent traffic light, then take a left and head down the first alleyway on the right. If you follow that it'll lead you straight to the Star Gaze."

Ezra nodded warmly, calling "Thanks Spirit. We'll just be on our way now."

And as if an unspoken command had been issued, the two nodded in reply, the formality of a soldier addressing their commander clear throughout their posture. Ocean eyes narrowed ever so slightly in what I guessed was either disapproval or alarm, but why the boy felt either I couldn't tell. The Spirits tensed under Ezra's gaze for a moment, before the older boy cleared his throat and murmured to his friend "Come Spike, we must continue our patrol."

"But isn't that the-?"

The Spirit hushed him with a piercing glare before turning back to us and adding light-heartedly "We wouldn't want to hold these fellow orphans away from the Star Gaze, now would we?"

"You're right, we'd better head over before we miss it entirely," Ezra replied, brushing off his previous concern as if it were mere dust on his shoulder. "Thanks for your help."

The two figures hesitated for a moment, as if unsure how to reply. But recollecting their thoughts they nodded warmly to the both of us and grinned, the four of us now equals, no more, no less.

And with that, the older boy rose to his feet cautiously and balanced along the length of the streetlight, gracefully leaping towards the nearby building and scaling the windowsills with ease. The second figure, -Spike I believed his friend had called him - followed in suit, and as the two shadows gazed back at us from their perch on the roof, they offered a final wave before bolting off along the rooftops, mere silhouettes against the smoggy sky.

I watched as they sprinted away, their movements as fluid as water and swift as the wind, until finally, they disappeared from view.

"See?" Ezra's voice chimed. "They're not so bad after all huh?"

I chuckled, glancing back at the boy and replying "Fine, fine, you were right."

A smug grin wove onto his lips but he didn't dare make another remark, instead beginning to walk in the direction the Spirits had told us to go. "We'd better go, don't want to be late after all," he said nonchalantly.

"Wait, Ezra," I called before he could stray too far.

He turned in surprise, his electric eyes sparking in confusion. "What's wrong?" he puzzled.

"It's just…" I mumbled awkwardly. "I… I don't think I should be going to this party thing…"

"What? Why not?" Ezra replied sharply as he came and stood back in the light of the street lamp.

I shifted from foot to foot and explained "Well, I'm not really homeless or starving. I'm not in need of shelter or water like others. It feels… wrong for me to be going."

"Sabine." Ezra's voice was sympathetic as he replied "The Spirits help all people. Orphaned. Homeless. Lost."

I winced at his words.

"Since coming to the Ghost you always tried to make my days better," the boy added sincerely. "I just wanted to repay you with a night of fun and music too. A sort of… goodbye, from me to you, I guess."

I wanted to smile, but couldn't help feel a chill sweep over my body at the mention of goodbye. Tomorrow, I'd be leaving it all behind. Everything I knew… gone…

It was a gentle touch on my arm that drew me back to reality, glancing up into Ezra's confident gaze as he spoke "I want you to have fun tonight, without thinking about anything or anyone else."

My mind told me to object, that I was being irrational. Running away to a party at 2am in the morning? Ridiculous. I should be back in my bed sleeping and saving my energy for the day ahead of me. I should be back home, with my family…

Could I even call them that anymore…?

I shook the thought away and returned Ezra's patient gaze, relieved to find only compassion in his expression. His ocean eyes, which pierced into my very soul, were brimming with trust and faith, a sense of security engulfing my senses at his intense stare. I had never seen the closed off boy so filled with confidence, I almost would have believed him to be an entirely different person if I hadn't known him myself.

It reminded me of the safety I had felt around Kanan the day I'd met him in our wild chase. Warm. Protected. Cared for.

It was a sensation I had lost over the past week...

But, I wanted to feel that way again. I wanted to have fun again, and laugh, and smile.

So, readjusting the backpack weighing on my shoulder, I offered a weak smile to the boy and murmured "...Let's not keep the party waiting then, shall we?"

His lips pulled back in a grin, his face beaming with glee as we began trekking our way down the silent street, our steps falling in sync. We followed the Spirit's instructions keenly as a new energy filled our souls, turning at the bent traffic light and slipping into the alley on the right. It was narrow and grimy, reeking of decomposing trash and concealing the many rats that could be heard scuffling through the garbage.

But something in the distance caught my attention. The sound of laughter? The calls of a reunion? And something else... Something like-

"Music!" I blurted out, feeling the excitement bubble in my gut.

Ezra glanced at me with an amused smirk, chuckling lightly as he leant over and whispered "Think that's cool? Look up."

My amber eyes lifted and found almost a dozen gazes staring back at me, figures as lean and swift as the two Spirits from before perched along windowsills and broken ladders. Some were talking with each other with friendly banter while a few balanced along the edges of the roofs with sharpened eyes. Even one or two on the lower levels offered a nod of acknowledgement, before turning back to their friends or duties.

"There's so many of them," I said softly, still taking in the sight as we continued down the alley. "Why aren't they at the Star Glance?"

"Star Gaze," Ezra corrected, before explaining warmly "They're the guards, making sure we're all safe during the night."

I nodded in reply, drawing a sense of peace from the idea that so many would be there to defend us in case of emergency. Or in case of Imperials...

Suppressing a shudder, I realised I had fallen behind slightly in my awe and raced to catch up the Ezra again. The boy didn't seem to mind though, his face plastered with an excited smile. It warmed me to see him so genuinely happy again, as I knew he often struggled with schoolwork and fitting in to a new way of life. But he was getting better now that he had his two friends in school and had finally resolved his issues with Kanan, leaving the Ghost harmonious once more.

It was a shame to think that almost as soon as he had joined the family, I was going to leave...

"Hey."

I shook my head as if to rid the thought and turned to the source of the voice. Ezra's blue eyes were welling with concern, and only now did I realise my face was pulled into a frown. I quickly pushed it away though and shot him a weary smile, saying "Sorry, sorry, I was just thinking."

His expression softened, and placing his hand on my shoulder encouragingly, he spoke "Well tonight, you put that busy mind of yours to rest for once. Because here, you can be whoever you want to be, and do whatever you want to do."

I shot him an unconvinced expression, but I assumed he knew what was on my mind as he stopped and added firmly "Forget the Ghost. Forget the others. All those things on your mind? Push them away, just for tonight."

"That's easier said than done," I pointed out sharply.

"Maybe, maybe not," Ezra smirked. "Because here, no one knows you. No one knows your name, your past, or your problems. So take advantage of that and just have fun tonight, without worrying."

I paused to take in his words, feeling my muscles tense as I realised that he was right. No one I was about to meet knew anything about me. I was a blank slate, another face in the crowd. I wouldn't be judged, or have to hold a facade like with the others. Tonight, I could just be me.

So shooting a genuine smile to the boy, I brushed the stray hairs from my eyes and announced proudly "Yeah, we're just two orphans right? Nothing crazy about that."

Ezra grinned in delight, playing along fondly "You bet. Just here to have some food and fun."

We exchanged an electrified glance, the excitement shooting through my muscles like a jolt of lightning. In silence we continued, our steps picking up speed before we were practically racing through the alley. Shadows consumed the brick maze of walls before a dim glow broke out ahead, though I couldn't tell from what. The buzzing noise that had started as distant chatter built to a symphony of calls and laughter and whispers and cheering, only growing as we ran towards the light in the distance.

We were so close now, I could feel Ezra sprinting at my side, his breaths steady yet strained with an unspoken tension. And for just a moment it felt as if the frosty, dry air had been shocked by lightning, shifting with warmth and energy instead of the eerie stillness of the Lothal winter. The light ahead was almost in reach, the roar of a crowd drowning out my thoughts as silhouettes appeared through the dim glow of what I realised must be a doorway.

It was so close... So close now...!

But just before the light could engulf us, a shadow blurred into view and quickly blocked our path, gripping my shoulders as I skidded to a halt.

I went to scream in alarm before a smooth voice cooed "Woah, woah little lady! You almost crashed into the door there."

I blinked rapidly in an attempt to focus on the stranger in front of me, the light from behind their cloaked form making it difficult to see clearly. But leaning forward slightly, I made out a pair of gleaming emerald eyes accompanied by a nonchalant smirk. The boy's expression was gentle at first, a hint of concern in his gaze, before he pulled back with a chuckle and remarked "You newbies. Always rushing into things."

"Yeah, like the door," a new voice snickered, glancing to my left to see another cloaked figure leaning against the doorway. Taking a glimpse over the first boy's shoulder I finally noticed the glass panels of a broken automatic doorway, and realised how thankful I was that these two had stepped in when they did. If they hadn't Ezra and I would have crashed straight through the glass doors, humiliating ourselves at best or injury ourselves at worst. Speaking of the boy, Ezra was beside the second stranger, rubbing his neck bashfully as he replied "We were just a little excited, sorry."

"No need to apologise," the one that had stopped me, a teenage boy with scruffy, matted hair and a bony frame spoke fondly. "You're keeping me and Angel on our toes at least."

"That's one way to look at it," the girl, Angel, grinned, flicking her blonde fringe from her eyes. "Here for the Star Gaze I assume?"

"Well of course they are! They wouldn't have made it through the alley if they weren't," the boy replied cockily.

She stepped away from the doorframe and punched his shoulder playfully, retorting "I'm just tryin' to be polite you doofus."

"Angel? Polite? I didn't think those two words could exist in the same sentence," the boy teased, before crying out in shock as Angel kicked him out from under his feet and sent him to the cement with a thud.

"Good, that's one pest out of the way," she smirked, shifting her gaze to Ezra and I as her friend groaned on the floor beside her. "Have you ever been to a Star Gaze before?"

"No, no... first time," I replied timidly, but was surprised to see Ezra hesitating in the corner of my eye.

He shuffled from foot to foot, his gaze trained to the ground before he glanced up at Angel sheepishly and murmured "I've been before..."

Her eyes lit up in recognition, the smile on her lips widening as she murmured softly "So you have..."

The Spirit beside her jumped to his feet as he too glanced at my friend's face, his shock turning to glee as he went to approach the blue haired teen. But Angel quickly stopped him, holding her arm up and shooting a cold glance to her friend. The boy rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly as he seemed to understand something, gazing over at Ezra and chuckling "Sorry friend... I didn't recognise you with your new clothes and hair."

The teen seemed uncomfortable at that, a hint of guilt welling in his electric eyes. It was true that despite Ezra and I wearing our most worn or tattered outfits, it was still a vast improvement than the clothes we had seen on any Spirit or orphan. We must have looked like fish out of water for the two local Spirits.

But the thing that truly caught my attention was the fact that these Spirits actually knew who Ezra was!

And is if to reaffirm my discovery, Angel added calmly "It's good to see you back Six. It's been a while."

Ezra crossed his arms over his chest, curling up like he did when he first arrived at the Ghost. "You know me... always busy..." he replied softly.

"Indeed you are," she nodded, adding warmly "But you are always welcome with the Spirits, Six."

Startled, I remembered something about that day on the dark side. That name! They were calling him by the same name that kid on the street had called Ezra the first time I'd come to the dark side! Six. That was what they said right? The boy had never told me the story behind the name, despite the numerous times I had tried to pry it out of him. I eventually got bored though and let the subject slide, which I figured must have been his plan all along.

Feeling confusion swell in place of my previous excitement, I turned to Ezra and murmured "You... You know them?"

He opened his mouth to reply before the unnamed Spirit stepped in and blurted out swiftly "No, no! He doesn't know us, but everyone knows Six. He has quite the reputation you see, so we've heard stories about him, that's all."

There was a brief silence, the Spirits gazing at me with piercing eyes while Ezra kept his gaze to the cracked cement beneath his boot. They seemed to be waiting for me, but why I had no idea. I mulled over what the boy had said carefully, my brows furrowing as I realised that Ezra must have been somewhat famous -or infamous for that matter- on this side of town. It only made sense that they knew him in some respect right?

Still, they were quite friendly for someone they had only heard in tales and rumours...

I exhaled sharply, running my hand through my hair as I remembered that this was the time I was supposed to be having fun! I shouldn't be standing out here in the cold, over analysing a world I knew nothing about. For all I knew everyone in town could have met Ezra at some point, and I'll admit that his navy hair and entrancing blue eyes were hard to forget.

There was nothing to worry about. Besides, even though Ezra kept secrets, I doubt he would ever lie to me. At least, I hoped he wouldn't...

So I smiled warmly at the two cloaked figures in front of me, saying light-heartedly "I shouldn't be surprised he's caught everyone's attention, he's the definition of 'troublemaker'."

Angel and her still unnamed friend laughed at my joke, and even Ezra seemed to relax at my words. He offered a weary smile and quizzed "I never did tell you that story about the name, huh?"

My eyes shot open in surprised, saying excitedly "Are you finally going to tell me?"

His brow arched, tilting his lip into a lopsided smirk as he replied "Now, where's the fun in that?"

"Ezra!" I snapped, punching his shoulder mockingly. He chuckled at my outcry and nudged my side, turning back to the Spirits as they watched us with amused expressions.

"Well, let's not keep you good people out in the cold much longer, eh?" The boy grinned, stepping towards the glass doors.

"Agreed. And newbie," Angel called as she took her place across from her partner. "There's only one rule in here."

"What's that?" I quizzed.

Angel grinned widely.

"Have fun!"

The two Spirits each grasped onto one of the door panels, the rusty wheels of the broken automatic door getting pried apart as they pulled it aside. I realised now that we were standing outside of what appeared to be an old abandoned warehouse, it's walls reaching up to the sky with shattered windows on the upper floors. Perhaps once it had been a beautiful structure, but just like all the other buildings on this side of town, it had been worn down by years of abandonment and scavenging. I imagined this whole side of town would have looked like the light side many, many years ago, long before I'd stumbled into it.

But to my surprise a warm gust of air hit my face as the doors fully opened, the artificial light from inside causing me to squint from its intensity. The Spirits gestured for us to go in, and as if releasing a bow string, Ezra had grabbed my wrist and bolted inside, dragging me along behind him. I stumbled to keep up with his startling pace, calling "Ezra slow down!"

But my voice seemed none existent, lost in the sea of noises that had consumed the warehouse. Through my blurry vision I could see figures on all sides, crowding around like a warm embrace. The warehouse must have been packed, hence why it was suddenly so much warmer than outside.

Ezra began to slow his pace, blocked by the ever-thickening crowd as we approached the centre of the huge building, which gave me the chance to fully absorb my surroundings.

The place was huge, with towering walls and metal beams above. Spirits were sitting along the cross beams, gazing down at the sea of people and lazing around without a care in the world. Giant metal aisles were lined up along the walls, creating a maze-like appearance from what I assumed used to hold all the products they sold here. I still couldn't tell what the warehouse had been for, but regardless, it seemed it had been picked dry of anything of value, a mere shell of what it could have been.

But compared to the other degraded buildings around here, I was surprised to see it was somewhat well kept. There wasn't lots of rubbish lying about like on the streets and the lights above were somehow active, despite there seeming to be no power supplied to the building. I pondered how they managed to do such a feat, but shook it off as I noticed new faces peering at us curiously.

In greeting I offered a sheepish smile, which most of them returned warmly. And though at first they must have thought I looked out of place, everyone who looked my way shared a nod or smile of respect. I figured it must have been a common courtesy among the poor. After all, these guys were the only ones that could have each other's backs. Especially in a place like this, with dangers lurking behind every corner. The freezing cold. The call of hunger. The fear of betrayal…

But my thoughts were quickly ripped away from dark possibilities as a sharp bump from someone beside me caused me to stumble to the side, the warmth of Ezra's hand falling away from my wrist. "Sabine!" Ezra had cried, but getting pulled through the current of the crowd, I glanced up frantically as I realised that the boy had disappeared in the sea of people, a distant call of my name getting buried beneath the flurry of noises. The warmth and safety I had felt just moments ago had been torn from my chest, realising that I was surrounded by strangers with the one person I trusted lost somewhere in the crowd.

"Ezra! Ezra!" I called desperately in the hope he would hear my words. But just like his attempts, my voice seemed like a whisper compared to the echoing ruckus surrounding me.

Feeling my nerves amplifying by each passing second, I swung my head back in forth while searching for the exit. There had to be some way out of this chaos! And yet all I could see were the heads of dozens of people, my view constantly getting blocked by the ever-shifting crowd. They seemed to gravitate towards the centre of the warehouse, dragging me along with them despite my efforts to resist the current.

"Ezra!" I cried once more, someone bumping into my shoulder as they passed. "Ezra?! Where are yo-"

Suddenly two kids ran by my legs, their shoving forceful enough to throw me off balance as I toppled towards the tiled floor. I raised my arms over my head in preparation for a painful landing when suddenly two firm hands grabbed my shoulders.

I'd barely had time to register their touch before they hoisted me backwards and onto my feet once more. "Got to watch those little ones miss, they're quite the troublemakers."

The voice had been smooth and charismatic, a hint of humour in his tone. I spun around in surprise to face my rescuer and stumbled back slightly when faced with a hooded figure, his face concealed by a shimmering white mask. At my weariness his piercing aquamarine eyes had softened, raising his hand to the bottom of the mask and tilting it up to reveal his face. Artificial light beamed onto his sun-kissed skin, dirty brown hair falling from the edges of his hood as a crooked grin laced his lips.

"New I assume?" He started warmly.

"Is it that obvious?" I chuckled, rubbing my arm awkwardly though feeling my muscles loosen at his lax presence.

"I know every face in this warehouse, every name too if I'm being honest," he smirked. "Except of course, yours."

Realising he was trying to start an introduction, I offered out my hand and replied "Sabine, my name's Sabine."

He shook my hand with a sudden glee in his eyes, saying "Nice to meet you Sabine, I'm the Ghoul."

"Ghoul? That's an... interesting name," I mused.

He grinned, flashing off his jagged teeth before pulling the mask back over his features. "Interesting names for interesting people. That's why we're so much fun!"

I chuckled, his light-heartedness relieving a weight from my shoulders. But I found my smile fading as I noticed the bandage over the Ghoul's shoulder, and the ripped edges of his old leather jacket and holes in his boots. Through a tear in the fabric of his shirt I could see the side of his waist, the skin tightening around the bends of his ribcage and the flesh but non-existent on his bony frame. I hesitated, frozen in horror at the sight yet unable to tear my eyes away.

He seemed to notice my gaze though and pulled his jacket over the hole while clearing his throat. For a moment I thought he would be angry at my shock, but to my surprise he only smiled behind his mask, saying fondly "Anyways, it's always great to see new faces around! So what brings you here Sabine?"

I took a moment to shake the concerns out of my head. Though he was obviously malnourished, his presence emitted anything but weakness what with his broad shoulders and hardened jaw. He was a leader, much different to the Spirits I had met so far.

So mustering my words I smiled warmly at the Ghoul, saying "I have to go tomorrow... and my friend wanted me to go out with a party, I guess."

His crystal eyes gleamed in delight. "Well if it's a party you're looking for it's a party you've found! Tell me, how did you hear about the Star Gaze?"

"Well in all honesty, I'm not usually from around here, it's just my friend brought me..." I paused, suddenly remembering the blue haired teen and explaining swiftly to the cloaked figure "Ezra! He brought me here, but I lost him in the crowd! Do you know where I can find him?"

"Ezra?" He repeated, confused. "Hm... I don't think I know an Ezra."

"You'd know him if you saw him," I blurted, surprised to meet someone who didn't know the teen at this point. "He's got blue hair, and these ocean blue eyes, and, and-" I froze, an idea, a word springing to mind as I turned to the Ghoul and exclaimed fiercely "Six! His name is Six!"

At that the Spirit's eyes lit up in recognition, glancing around the crowd curiously as he quizzed "Six is here? He's just full of surprises isn't he."

"Can you help me find him?" I pleaded.

The Ghoul swivelled back to me with a reassuring smile, offering his hand as he replied "'Course I can. I'll take you to the centre. He'll probably go there if he's looking for you."

I flinched at his gesture, because though it was gentle, I was acutely aware that he was still nothing more than a stranger in a mask to me. My hesitation had been a natural reflex, but one the street local seemed to sympathise with.

Glancing up to the beams above the Ghoul instead cupped his hands around his mouth and shouted "Hey slackers! Care to give me a lift?"

His call echoed to the rooftops, and the hooded figures sitting along the metal crossbeams peered in our direction. A few of them chuckled and laughed when they finally noticed the Ghoul, one scrawny boy shouting back "Oi can't ya do it yourself mate?!"

Another one, a girl this time, chimed in with a snicker "And here I was thinkin' ghouls could fly!"

There was a chorus of laugher from above, enough to grasp the attention of the crowd around us. Glancing around I noticed a quiet had washed over the warehouse as eyes began to turn to watch the playful Spirits, filled with curiosity and wonder.

Turning back to the Ghoul, I saw his eyebrow arch in an unimpressed quirk, his eyes dull yet slightly amused. The Spirits finally let their laughter die down, and instead turned their efforts to light-heartedly mocking the Ghoul from their perches above.

"Lost your touch already sir?"

"It's only a hop, skip and a jump mate!"

"Come on Sir show 'em who's boss!"

"Fly Ghoul, fly!"

Their calls were playful and cheeky, taunting what I realised must be their leader due to their use of 'Sir'. But the Ghoul's lip tilted into a smirk beneath his shiny mask, before he casually twisted on his heel and strode away.

"Aw come on Sir!" the Spirits called teasingly. "We were only joking!"

They continued to chuckle and snicker, but their amusement quickly shifted to a deafening silence as the Ghoul twirled, his cloak billowing behind him as he sprinted back towards me.

For a moment panic flooded my conscience as I saw the speedy figure barrelling towards me, about to jump away when the Ghoul suddenly twisted to the left and jumped. Like an acrobat he leapt over the heads of a few bystanders and pushed himself off one of the tall, metal aisles, propelling him into the air. And with a graceful flip above the crowd, he caught the edge one of the hanging, circular light cases and rose to his feet on the metal dome.

He brushed a few specks of dust off his shoulder with a smirk, gazing down at us with shimmering aquamarine eyes.

The Spirits remained eerily quiet above him, the ones who had been egging him on suddenly very pale while the crowd below just stared in awe. Even I found my eyes glued to the nimble teen as I tried to imagine how he could achieve such a jump in his condition. He was just full of surprises it seemed.

"Now that I have your attention," he chuckled, casting a glance to his subdued friends above. "I'm lookin' for a special guest."

Murmurs broke out in speculation as to who the Ghoul was referring to, but he didn't allow the tension to drag too long before shouting "Six! I know you're out there! Show your face you rascal!"

The Spirits stirred at his words, the name obviously ringing a bell as they began whispering to one another in hushed tones, too far away for anyone to hear. The crowd on the other hand also began to shift, some faces lighting up in recognition while others glazed in confusion. I myself began to search the crowd as well, standing on my tippy-toes to try and spot Ezra's blue mop of hair and confirm to myself that he was safe... That I wasn't alone in this warehouse full of strangers...

But suddenly some of the Spirits cried out in excitement as the crowd parted to my left, revealing the tan skinned boy in the sea of faces.

At first his cheeks burnt red under all the attention, ducking his head away bashfully, until his gaze caught mine and his embarrassment vanished in the blink of an eye. And to replace it? Relief. Nothing but relief.

He ran towards me and blurted "Sabine! I'm so sorry, I tried to call out for you but I couldn't find you."

A smile pulled at my lips, a weight lifting from my own conscience as I replied "It's alright, I found someone else to help."

Ezra shot me a puzzle look, before I pointed up with a smirk, right where the Ghoul stood regally a top the metal casing of the light. His teal eyes beamed at us as he leant against his knees, simultaneously causing the light to sway from his shifting weight. "Nice to have ya back Six. Not getting into any trouble hm?" He chuckled.

"Me? Never," Ezra said with a mischievous grin. "But I have a gift."

"A gift?" he gasped, clutching his hand to his chest dramatically. "For me? That's sweet."

Ezra rolled his eyes and went to pull off his backpack, before flinching and glancing over at me. He paused for a moment, the cogs of his mind turning behind his hazy blue orbs.

"Actually," he spoke, turning to look at the Ghoul before announcing loudly "My friend Sabine brought it. She's the one you should thank."

I blinked in surprise, feeling the eyes of the crowd suddenly burning into my skull. Even the Ghoul shifted his gaze to me, saying "Is that so? Well, don't keep us waitin'! What do you have for us?"

I shot an urgent glance at the boy beside me, wondering why he would say it was me when he had been the one collecting all the food for the whole week. Surely he would want the crowd to know it was his gift, not mine.

But regardless, everyone now had their eyes fixed on me, waiting in anticipation for me to reveal it. So swallowing the lump in my throat I slid the backpack off my shoulder and held it up, murmuring "It's um... food... for all of you..."

What sounded like hundreds of voices cried out in excitement, echoing off the metal walls and amplifying the deafening outburst. Startled by the uproar I dropped the backpack and covered my ears in an attempt to shield myself from the sea of voices that had flooded the once silent warehouse. I glanced to my left to see Ezra, a smile on his lips as his eyes trailed over the joyful faces before us. His skin radiated with a lively warmth, absorbing the excited aurora that bubbled around us.

And following his gaze, I couldn't help but feel my expression soften too.

They all looked so happy, despite the dire situation they were forced to live in every single day. Kanan was never really one to talk about his life in the orphanage, but that look, that hollow gaze he took on whenever he thought about the orphanage or the streets said more than any words could. Even Ezra, who stood beside me with confidence and pride, couldn't escape those empty eyes, as deep and lonely as the void of space. They were the eyes of someone who had lost everything...

And yet here, through the cheering and smiles and laughter and embraces, their nothing had turned into everything. It filled them with joy and with purpose, and suddenly, I felt an emptiness within, so deep and so cold that it drowned out the cheerful cries booming around me, if only for a moment.

What I wouldn't give to feel like they do right now...

And then as quickly as the silence had descended the concoction of noise returned, dying down and yet still fairly prominent. The Ghoul, sliding off of the light and landing gracefully before me, grinned behind his shimmering mask and spoke "What a gift! How can we ever repay you?"

I sheepishly picked up the fallen backpack and offered it out to the Spirit, replying softly "No repayment needed. I'm just excited to be here."

He nodded and took the bag from my hands, glancing around at the crowd as he added curtly "Obviously it won't be enough to feed the whole of this mangy pack, but it's important non the less." He turned back to me for a moment, bowing in gratitude, before calling "Let's say thanks to our new guest everyone."

A resounding 'Thank you!' boomed in the chamber, feeling my cheeks tinge red at all their attention. It wasn't really deserved, but it was humbling regardless.

"Alright you know the drill," the Ghoul ordered after the calls had simmered down. "Mothers, children and sick get first dibs. Meet at the checkout for your share."

The crowd shifted as children began hurtling towards the centre of the warehouse in excitement, causing everyone to move out of the way of the speeding kids. Soon the sea that had formed around us began to disperse, alleviating the stifling tension as chatter and banter rose among the warehouse once more. I watched curiously at the faces around me and jumped in surprised at a few young women, mothers I assumed by the baby held in one of their arms, who gratefully bowed as they passed beside us. I waved back with a smile, and one of the mothers even stepped forward, her sleepy son clinging to her back like a baby koala. Smiling warmly, she murmured with a croak "Thank you dear. I would shake your hand if I had one free, but my words will have to be enough for now."

My chest bloomed with pride, replying "No need to thank me, I'm happy to help any way I can."

She nodded softly, then carried the sleeping bundle on her back away, blending into the ever-shifting mass surrounding us. I watched until they vanished from view, before turning on my heel to face the hooded teen behind me. He was inspecting the contents of the bag with an excited smile, seemingly pleased with what he saw before zipping it up and throwing it to the Spirits above. They caught the bag and travelled along the beams towards the centre of the warehouse, where all the children and mothers had moved to in order to get their share.

"We can't thank you enough," the Ghoul spoke, recapturing my attention as he threw the second bag that Ezra offered to another awaiting Spirit. "Food donations are always welcome."

"I just wish I could offer more," I replied solemnly, imagining how many more bags I could have filled if I'd known about tonight.

"Hm? No, no, this is perfect," he hummed in delight. "Everything helps, especially in winter. Ain't that right Six?"

Ezra scoffed and dug the heel of his boot into the concrete. "Yeah, I try not to think about it."

"Well, I guess you never run out of places to pickpocket though do you little rascal," the Spirit cackled. "Like Old Edgar hm?"

Ezra's cheeks burnt bright red, his eyes flaring with embarrassment as I exclaimed "You what?!"

The Ghoul shifted his gaze to me, quipping "Surely you heard of the little stunt that earned him the name Six?"

"What? No! He refuses to tell me!" I said while pointing an accusing finger at the boy.

"What? Insane! Well I'll just have to tell it for him then won't I?" the Ghoul smirked, brushing stray hairs back behind his cloak as I leant forward intently, eyes wide. The teen cleared his throat, and like any good storyteller, spoke with energy and vigour. "It's a summer day on Lothal, with blistering heat and dry winds. Six here is dying for a drink and refuses to be kicked out of the local storefront by that grumpy old goat Edgar." Two Spirits were passing by and had caught onto the familiar story, letting out a melodramatic cry of terror at the mention of the store owner. They were obviously joking around, but the blank glance that consumed one of their eyes as they walked by made me wonder if some of their fear held a grain of truth behind it.

Regardless, I fixed my gaze back to the Ghoul as he continued proudly "So as quick as a fox, he flies back into the store when Edgar's back turns and suddenly throws barrel after barrel of water out the door. By the time that old goat realised he's out the door pushing those containers down the slope and leading them straight to us on the other side of town! A victory! Six hulking jugs of water just for us!"

A cheerful 'Whoop!' resounded through the crowd around us, obviously from those who had witnessed the legend with their own eyes. Ezra on the other hand had gone sheepish under their praise and gazed at his dirty boots with a nervous smile.

No wonder everyone we'd encountered had been so pleased to hear his name. He was a legend! A hero among the streets! I could imagine it now, Ezra arriving triumphantly in an alley with barrels of fresh, cold water at his feet. The others must have been ecstatic that day!

And suddenly I found a new appreciation welling for my friend as I shot a sympathetic smile to the boy.

He was brash and abrasive sometimes yes, but deep down, there was something truly special. A courage. A strength. A power. I just wished he would show it a little more often.

But patting his shoulder softly, I assured myself that he would come to flourish under Kanan and Hera's care, as I had done before him. He was in safe hands, I knew...

But who's hands were I in...?

"And now here we are today! Was that a good story or what?" the Ghoul announced proudly with a puff of his chest.

I chuckled, replying playfully "A story is only as good as its storyteller."

"So it was fantastic then!" He quipped, gaining a few sarcastic eye rolls from his Spirits. "Good to know I've still got the charm."

"Charm? More like a big head!" A Spirit chimed, causing an uproar of laughter to erupt.

"Yeah, yeah," the Ghoul said, brushing off their playful teasing. "Don't you all have something better to do?"

"Nah, this is way more fun!" someone called through the crowd.

The Ghoul scoffed half-heartedly. "Well, I have things to do, unlike you slackers," the teen chided with a flick of his worn cloak. His tone was gentle, but an air of authority hung over his presence, an obvious hint for his cloaked friends. The Spirits that had gathered caught his hint and began to disperse, starting their own conversations about past legends on their way to patrolling or keeping guard.

The Ghoul's shimmering mask turned in my direction once more, his aquamarine orbs filled with warmth. "I have to go now, but please, enjoy the Star Gaze! I'm sure Six can give you the tour," he said with a gentle pat of Ezra's shoulder. "I'm sure we'll meet again soon."

I smiled, replying "I'm sure we will."

And with a final nod, he turned and slipped into the current of the crowd, the edge of his cloak whipping back and forth gracefully before he fully disappeared from sight.

A gentle nudge to my shoulder caused me to snap my focus back to the present. Ezra's electric gaze was fixed on me, a sympathetic smile on his lips as he spoke "Sorry... about losing you back then. And for putting all the pressure on you with the food thing."

"Why didn't you say it was you?" I quizzed, not out of annoyance but out of genuine curiosity.

The teen wrapped his arm around my shoulder with a smile, replying "The best way to get on the good side of orphans is to give them food, and after that little show, you're now friends with everyone in the warehouse!"

I chuckled, admiring his cunning. "Maybe so, but what about you?"

"Well, I think I've made enough of a reputation for myself don't you?" he mused.

"Very true water boy!" I teased, nudging him to the side as we began to walk through the crowd again.

"We should go see the musicians," Ezra suggested cheerily. "They're hard to hear at the moment, but once we get closer they'll be unmistakable."

"That would be nice. I never did get their names..." I replied softly.

"This will be your chance then," he smiled while leading us through the shifting currents.

Everyone seemed so calm and relaxed, as if the worries of the world couldn't reach them in the confines of the cosy warehouse. They were all so different, in appearance yes, but in character too. Some were loud and bombastic, yelling over the noise or messing around with friends. Others were more reserved, quietly observing the charming chaos around them.

Here they could be themselves, free from judgement or hostility.

And glancing at the beams above, with the hooded guardians keep a close eye on the commotion below, I understood why everyone would feel so safe and protected. Under their watchful gaze, I felt the same sense of security as I had for years with Kanan and Hera...

Turning my gaze ahead once more, I noticed the crowd begin to peter out, the loud tune of drums and guitar and violin working together in harmony. I wove my way to the front of the circle with Ezra at my heels, and grinned to see four cloaked musicians singing and dancing in the middle of the clearing. Some of the others had gone into the space and were dancing too, their faces plastered with laughter as the moved to the light-hearted tune.

"Come on now!" a girl, the one playing the violin called out as the instrumental played. "Get on the dance floor and have some fun!"

Some of the Spirits jumped in, their cloaks twirling and swaying as they danced. And one by one, the cloaked figures began pulling spectators into the commotion, offering their hands and encouraging them to join the party.

I was so busy watching the others get pulled in that I hadn't even noticed one of the Spirits approaching me, a lopsided grin in his face as he offered his gloved hand. My cheeks burnt red as I stuttered "O-Oh no, I can't dance."

"Don't worry, neither can I!" he snickered while grabbing onto my wrist. His grasp was gentle and polite, enough so that I'm sure I could have pulled away with ease. But with a playful shove from behind I stumbled into the stranger clumsily as Ezra cackled in laughter behind me.

I shot him a frustrated glare over my shoulder, but he simply shrugged with a mischievous grin.

The Spirit seemed to take my misfortunate stumble as an acceptance of his offer though, pulling me into the ring of cheerful dancers as the music thrummed in my ears.

"Oh don't you dare look back, just keep your eyes on me. I said you're holding back, she said 'Shut up and dance with me'!" the leader musician sung smoothly. "This woman is my destiny, I said 'Ooo-oo', shut up and dance with me!"

Pulling my eyes away from the vibrant musicians in the middle I focused on the cloaked figure holding my hands in his. His hazel hair curled into short tufts and swirled like an ocean beneath his hood, the fine hair spilling over his vibrant sky-blue eyes. A nervous smile laced his lips and his fingers fidgeted awkwardly for a moment, the clamour surrounding us almost drowning out his voice as he spoke softly "You don't have tah dance if you don't want."

I shook myself out of my daze and smiled, replying "No, no, I don't mind."

He gazed at his feet sheepishly before readjusting our hands until our fingers were interlocked, his gloved palms radiating warmth. Then I glanced down at our feet as we both took a step in time with the rhythm, his foot sliding forward as mine moved back. Though stiff at first, I found each pace becoming more confident as we danced through the lively crowd.

"Deep in her eyes, I think I see the future. I realise, this is my last chance!" the musicians chimed.

I shot my partner a triumphant smile as we swayed back and forth, his crystal eyes glinting in delight until he yelped at I treaded on his toe. "Sorry!" I exclaimed, fixing my eyes back to our feet before he clumsily slammed into me.

"S-Sorry!" he stuttered, trying to find his rhythm again before our legs snagged and we tumbled to the tiled floor.

I landed on his chest with a thud, his hood thrown back by the fall as his wild hazel hair swayed across his face. He pulled his hair from his eyes and gazed at me with a nervous expression, his voice hitching as he blurted "I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to-"

But his stumbling apology was cut short as I began to laugh, not out of awkwardness or politeness, but just because I could. Because I was having fun!

His icy blue eyes remained wary for a few moments longer, before softening into an amused smile. Pushing myself up I made sure to stabilise myself before reaching out to the Spirit and offering him a hand up. He gazed at it with cheeky smirk, as if understanding the irony that I was now pulling him into the dancing instead of the other way around.

But clasping his fingers around mine I yanked him back into the action, joining hands once more as the music continued to boom.

"She took my arm, I don't know how it happened. We took the floor and she said...!"

"Oh don't you dare look back," I sung. "Just keep your eyes on me!"

"I said you're holding back," he chimed.

"She said shut up and dance with me!" we laughed, our steps in sync with each beat. "This woman is my destiny, I said 'ooo-oo', shut up and dance with me!"

Leaning back we spun in an arc before returning to our fast-paced steps, our faces pulled into wide, carefree grins.

"Ooo-oo, shut up and dance with me!"

The clearing was now a tangle of steps and swings, laughter threatening to drown out the music before everyone joined together in a final booming voice.

"I said ooo-oo, shut up and dance with me!"

The drums cut out and the violin held still. The movement stopped all of a sudden as the musicians took their bow, clapping and cheering filling the warehouse. I joined along with the celebrations until the cheering died down, a warm chatter arising in the absence of the music. Turning my attention away from the four singers I found myself gazing into the eyes of my Spirit partner, our fingers still interlocked.

Laughing softly, I pulled away and said "Not bad for someone who can't dance."

"I could say the same for you," he replied bashfully, before adding "Except for the falling down part. That was, uh... less graceful."

I rubbed the back of my neck with a nervous chuckle, replying "Sorry about that. How's your foot?"

He wriggled his boot around experimentally, one of his toes poking from the worn fabric as he said light-heartedly "Nothing broken from what I can tell."

I smiled at the charming teen. He was scruffy and goofy but I had to admire his courage, smiling as if he had nothing but the cloak on his back to worry about. He'd given me a chance to have fun, to live as carefree as him, if only for a moment. "Thank you," I spoke, my voice soft. "That was lots of fun... Even if we did stumble for a bit there."

"More like trip," he mused. "But don't worry 'bout it! I had fun too."

"I didn't catch your name," I said, gently prodding him to introduce himself.

He brushed his curly hair from his face and replied "My friends call me Nutmeg. You?"

"Sabine," I replied warmly.

"Oh!" he exclaimed, his eyes lighting up in recognition. "You're that girl that brought the food!"

I nodded slowly, admitting "It was really my friend, but... yeah, I gues-"

Suddenly he took my hand in both of his and shook it firmly, his voice brimming with gratitude as he said "Thank you! My little brother hasn't been doing so well lately, but that food is going to help so much!"

I stared at him for a few moments, startled, before feeling my face soften in sympathy. This poor boy. Perhaps he wasn't as carefree as he'd first appeared. Perhaps, just like me, he seemed to carry a weight on his shoulders that no one else could see.

Curling my fingers around his I offered an encouraging smile, saying "If he's as lively as you I'm sure he'll bounce back in no time."

He nodded, returning a weak smile. There was a sadness in his eyes, but it was quickly veiled once more as his attention turned upwards. A shrill whistle broke through the air, and as I followed his gaze I noticed more cloaked Spirits running along the beams to the centre of the warehouse. "I have to go," he explained regretfully, his hands pulling away from mine. But his expression brightening, he added "Maybe we'll dance again someday."

I blinked and nodded wearily. "Someday," I spoke, my voice soft. Though I wished we would meet again sometime, I didn't want to give myself false hope. I was leaving tomorrow after all… this was probably the first and last time I'd see the charismatic teen.

His gaze welled with understanding and with a final wave goodbye, he dashed through the crowd to catch up to his fellow Spirits.

I stared at the place he had disappeared through for a few blank moments, feeling a sudden pang of loneliness without his cheery grin. But my attention was soon recaptured by the musicians as the leader called "Very good everyone! I saw some great dancers out here tonight."

A few called out an enthusiastic 'Whoop!'.

A mischievous grin lined the leader's lips as he added proudly "Glad to see you all getting into the right Spirit, huh?"

His fellow singers moaned at the pun, rolling their eyes exasperatedly before the leader said teasingly "Oh don't be such downers. That was a good joke!"

"Only in your mind," the girl beside him smirked as she tuned her violin.

Feeling my sense of loneliness ebb away I smiled once more and weaved my way towards the four musicians. I was determined to at least learn their names, and maybe even where their next show would be so I could bring all my friends along!

I froze, feeling my chest tighten as I remembered that I wouldn't be around to see their next show regardless. The thought of tomorrow, of leaving, of the adoption sent my stomach churning. Surely it was the right thing though... at least, that's what I kept telling myself. I should be happy I'm getting adopted. I should be happy a family wants me. I should be happy!

So why wasn't I...?

"There you are!" a voice called.

I glanced up in surprise to see Ezra, his navy locks swaying back and forth as he weaved through the crowd. "So, did you have fun?" he grinned, amusement in his gaze.

I smirked, stepping forward and punching him harshly on the shoulder. "Hey!" he yelped. "What was that for?"

"That's for pushing me," I replied sharply.

He rubbed his arm gingerly, his expression growing sheepish as he asked "So... you didn't have fun?"

"Are you kidding?" I scoffed. "That was the most fun I've had in months!"

At my words his face brightened in surprise, a smile pulling at his lips. "It was?"

"Of course. Didn't you see? Me and Nutmeg were the best dancers on the floor," I said sarcastically, a grin on my face.

"Yes, well, you keep telling yourself that," he chuckled. Glancing over his shoulder, he turned back and asked "Off to see the musicians?"

"I was planning to," I said, stepping to Ezra's side as we began walking towards them once more. "I wanted to catch them before their next song."

The boy nodded, replying "Don't worry, I'm sure they'll be up for a chat."

Before long we came to the centre of the clearing, the four musicians sitting down against worn plastic milk crates as they tuned their instruments. One of the boys were talking with some fellow Spirits while the girl conversed with the drummer of the team, leaving the leader to stare down at his guitar as he tuned the fragile strings. His wavy blonde hair curled around the edges of his hood as pale skin clung to his thin frame. He looked older than his fellow singers with a set jaw and creases of age and worry across his face. Milky hazel eyes were fixed to the guitar in his hands, the instrument looking as if it had been through a war of its own by its condition.

I hesitated for a moment, wondering if it would be rude to interrupt, but mustering my courage I stepped forward and said "You guys played really well."

The leader glanced up first, followed by his three friends as a gentle smile crossed the leader's face. "Thank you. We try out best," he spoke with a sheepish chuckle.

"It was great! All your music is great. It's so unique and rustic..." I trailed off for a moment, running my hand through my hair nervously as I explained "Sorry, you probably don't remember me. I caught the end of one of your songs a little while ago but the police showed up before I could meet you."

His eyes grew wide as he rose to his feet with a grin, saying "No, no, I remember you now. Sorry I didn't introduce myself, the cops were right on our tail."

"Yeah, I remember..." I gazed down at the floor and ground my foot into the floor anxiously. I wonder what Kanan would think if he knew I was here...

"Well, now's the perfect chance I guess," he said cheerily, offering his hand as he started "My name's Christof. And these are my fellow buskers."

I shook his hand warmly before the girl jumped off the crate and stood beside the boy, saying cheekily "My name's Kara. Master at violin and just all around awesome."

"Ha! Big head too!" the drummer, a boy with matted black hair and freckled skin called from his perch behind her. His amber eyes turned to me as he said "Don' mind her, she's new."

"New and improved more like," Kara smirked light-heartedly.

The boy brushed off her comment, his eyes still trailed on me as he greeted "The name's Rune. And this is my buddy Scale."

At his name the other boy stepped forward, his guitar resting against his side. With a graceful bow he gazed upon me with shimmering jade orbs, recognition flashing across his gaze as he exclaimed "Ah! I know you! You're that one who danced with Nutmeg just then!"

My cheeks burnt red like molten lava, stuttering "Oh... y-you saw that huh?"

Scale offered a sympathetic smile, replying "Nutmeg isn't the smoothest dancer out there, but he means well."

"That wolf is much better at lifting crates than he is keepin' with the beat," Rune grumbled, picking at something in his jagged teeth. "The Ghoul on the other hand, now, he can move."

"He hasn't danced in ions though!" Scale retorted.

"Hm... true," Rune spoke thoughtfully. "We should try n' make him dance tonight. What song do y'think he'd dance to Christof?"

Despite the light-hearted banter their leader's expression had grown hard, his brow creased in a frown as he turned on the two and spoke firmly "The Ghoul won't dance without Grace and you know it. Don't push your luck boys."

Rune huffed, his shoulders sagging as he snapped "I was only joking. Don't be such a party pooper."

"Who's Grace?" Kara asked curiously to the three boys, her head tilted in confusion.

"She's the Ghoul's childhood sweethea-" Christof cut himself off with a shake of his head. "Can we talk about this another time?"

Rune shrugged half-heartedly, returning to his chat with Kara while Scale stepped forward and rested his hand on Christof's shoulder apologetically. The leader seemed pleased at this, nodding to his friend with a smile before turning back to Ezra and I with a gentle expression. "Don't mind them. They're a little worn after playing for so long," he said with a gentle strum of his guitar. There was a sorrow in his eyes, a darkness weighing on his skinny shoulders. I wondered what might have been running through his mind before he bowed politely, his fluffy hair veiling his vulnerability as he spoke "It's been a pleasure Sabine."

I hesitated at first, before smiling warmly. "It's been so nice meeting all of you."

His expression brightened in joy. "You should come see our next show!" He implored. "We'll be playing by the fountains in Central Park tomorrow. You should join us!"

My expression fell, the warmth seeping from my core as Ezra rested his hand on my shoulder sympathetically. "She's heading off tomorrow," he said softly, hesitating for a moment before adding "This is her last day in Lothal..."

Christof's face softened, though still retained a cheerful gleam. "I see. Well, I hope us Spirits can make it a memorable farewell at least," he said happily.

I offered a weary smile at his optimism, but found myself suddenly lost again, my momentary freedom chained down by the thoughts of tomorrow...

A voice broke through my haze, but to my surprise it hadn't been Ezra this time. No, this one was for more pronounced and energetic, booming across the echoing warehouse.

"Come along all you willin' enough to race!" The Ghoul called from his perch on one of the beams. "It's time for the Star Gaze Championship!"

An excited buzz rose among the crowd as a few dozen people began picking their way towards the centre eagerly. I watched as they made their way through the murmuring sea of faces, others beginning to shift away from the centre to allow them room. Spirits stood along the beams, their eyes sharp and focused, surveying the movements below like hawks.

"Finally!" Rune's voice exclaimed behind us. I glanced over my shoulder to see him stretching his muscles like an old man, his teeth shimmering in a grin as he laughed "Something actually interesting is about to happen!"

"C'mon, we'll watch from up there," Scale gestured to one of the towering cabinets.

But Kara sprung to her feet first, racing by until she was practically at the edge of the crowd before calling back "Race ya! Last one's a rotten egg!"

The two boys glanced at each other with a look of dismay before immediately bolting after her rapidly disappearing form. Within moments all three musicians had vanished from view, turning around to find that only Christof remained, a light smile on his face. He rose to his feet and collect the instruments his friends had left in the wake of their race, holding each with great care as he turned to leave. His shimmering gaze caught mine for a split second though, and he paused to incline his head gently. "Best get a good view," he spoke, a twinkle in his eye. "I expect you'll enjoy the championship."

And with that he walked away, his cloak flowing at the edge of his heels before he slipped out of view. My thoughts lingered on the musician for a few moments longer, before turning to Ezra who was watching the Ghoul intently and asking "What's the championship?"

Ezra snapped his focus away from the Spirit and shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly. "Just a set of games really. Winner gets a prize each time," he explained as he scratched at his chin. "Nothing too crazy, but it's fun to watch."

I scoffed. "Surprised you haven't joined before!"

He simply smirked, replying cheekily "Who said I hadn't?"

I nudged his arm mockingly and began to follow the ebb of the crowd. "Come on. Let's go see what's happening," I suggested, holding onto the cuff of his sleeve so not to lose the boy again. He trailed behind without question, his eyes shimmering in delight. Drawing strength from his confident gaze I continued forward with excitement as the Ghoul's voice echoed above "Now, what's today's prize you may be asking? Well, look no further than your favourite winter accessory..." Pausing for dramatic tension, the warehouse fell silent before one of the Spirits threw something towards the Ghoul. It unfurled mid-air, the Ghoul catching it smoothly as he announced proudly "Your own winter jacket!"

Excitement bubbled throughout the crowd as eyes lit up in surprise and a deep seeded need. They were practically drooling over the garment as the Ghoul continued "Double layered, water proof and a cosy cushioned lining. Second hand but never the less in top notch condition."

Ezra watched from my side placidly, murmuring "With how cold this winter's going to be there's no wonder everyone is excited."

I nodded slowly, my expression growing sombre as I realised only one person out of this warehouse of people would be warm this winter. It was a shame that such lively souls were forced to suffer without something as basic as warm clothing or fresh food. The urge to help niggled in the back of my mind, but I knew this was something larger than one person. No matter how much I scraped and scrounged there would never be enough to feed them all.

But gazing up at the hooded figures above I could at least tell myself there was someone who cared, someone who was willing to fight for those in need.

So taking that as my reassurance I turned my attention back to the Ghoul and watched as he pulled something from his pocket. "The game is simple," he started, shaking what I realised were a set of keys in his hand. "All you have to do is get these keys from my good friend Mole down there."

I tried to follow his gesture but found the crowd was too thick to catch a glance. But as if reading my mind Ezra shot me an enthusiastic grin and said "Let's get closer."

I nodded without hesitation and together we began weaving our way towards the centre. When we finally broke from the crowd we found ourselves at the edge of a circle, a single Spirit standing in the middle with his head tilted towards his leader. The Ghoul threw him the set of keys which the boy caught with ease, reaching down as he tied it to his shoe. The boy was scrawny and short, surely younger than myself as his fingerless gloves gave way to calloused skin. His eyes, though shadowed by his hood, shimmered like stars in an inky black sky.

Once the Spirit had loosely fastened the keys to his bootlace the Ghoul called out light-heartedly "And just to make it easy for all of you..." Nodding to a Spirit on the beams a cloaked girl dropped a slip of cloth down to the boy, which he caught and tied over his eyes securely.

Someone scoffed beside us. "A blindfold?" He snorted in amusement. "This will be a piece of cake."

Judging by their relaxed attitude I realised that everyone around the circle seemed to think the Spirit wasn't much of a challenge. A mere bump in the road to their prize. He was light-weight and as thin as a pencil, it was no wonder everyone was so confident. How could the Ghoul think to pit him against over a dozen orphans desperate for a winter coat? He'd be crushed within seconds!

I shot a nervous glance to Ezra, expecting him to share my dread, but found he was staring at the Spirit with a steady gaze, his lip tilted in a smile. "Aren't you worried?" I whispered softly.

He cast me a puzzle glance, replying "Why?"

"Well... look at him. He's so small, and there's so many of them," I murmured, shifting from foot to foot.

Ezra's smile shifted to a smirk, his eyes gleaming in delight as he said "Being small doesn't make him weak. Just like being cocky doesn't make the others strong."

I blinked, startled at the weight of his words, but before I could speak any further the Ghoul called out clearly "You must grab the keys from Mole's shoe without him touching you. If he tags you then you must go back to the edge of the ring before attempting again. No pushing, shoving, or fighting Mole. He will fight back if he feels necessary. Everyone understand?"

"Yes Ghoul," the contestants replied in a chorus.

"Very good," he chimed, his aquamarine orbs glinting in mischief. "Best not keep you waitin' then. Let the games begin in three!"

Tension filled the air like a flood as the participants readied themselves excitedly.

"Two!"

The Spirit, Mole, shifted his feet across the tiled floor thoughtfully.

"One!"

The crowd backed away in anticipation from the dozens of contestants, the Spirits above leaning forward intently.

"GO!"

Like a bolt of lightning at least eight people rushed forward, their pace not showing any signs of slowing down. I bit my lip nervously as Mole remained stationary in the middle, his body as still as a statue. They closed in by the second, their footsteps like a thunderous stampede while the boy waited, his expression unreadable.

What is he doing?! He's going to get himself killed if he waits there!

Until suddenly, as the first boy reached out his hand to grab his boot, Mole twisted to the side and shoved the boy's speeding figure to the side. He fell the floor with a thud, shaking his head in a daze.

A collective gasp of surprise broke the silence, the audience staring in shock at the stocky teen who had just been forced to the floor as if he were a mere twig in the wind. I stared wide eyed at the scene, awestruck.

But there was no time to marvel as the second person, a girl this time, rushed up to the Spirit. As she bent to snatch the keys on her run Mole jumped, using her back to push himself off from before sending her to the floor in a stumble.

That was two down, but there were still another six about to reach him, all hungry for that prize. They didn't seem to care that he had easily beaten the two fastest contestants so far. They just kept running, ready to knock the poor boy over if necessary.

I winced in preparation for a nasty collision, but found myself jumping in surprise as he weaved between their paths lightly, tagging three as they passed and sending another to the floor with a shove. The two that had managed to evade his hands turned back for a second go, and in a daring move one dived onto the tiled floor as the other tried to ram the boy. But Mole was ready. He twisted, lifting his leg with the keys so the boy continued sliding across the floor before slamming his airborne foot into the stomach of the second person. He let out a pained cry and fell back onto the floor, clutching his waist in agony while the other boy grunted at the grazes along his elbows.

There was a moment of silence as the other contestants shared an anxious gaze. They hadn't been expecting that, none of us had. Suddenly I understood Ezra's calm demeanour as Mole stepped back into the middle of the ring, tense and alert for the next opponent to come his way.

But the others weren't foolish enough to underestimate him this time. When both the contestants coming for their second go and those who were only approaching now began to walk into the ring, they moved much more carefully towards the seemingly innocent boy. Mole was listening patiently as their footsteps echoed across the tiled floor, his nimble form ready to jump away in a moment's notice.

Suddenly someone broke from the line, sprinting towards him as his boots slammed against the slick floor. But Mole had already twisted to the side by the time he reached the Spirit, tagging him like he was merely swatting a fly. Within seconds though another came flying after him, and another, and another. He dodged each one with grace, sliding and ducking and jumping when necessary.

I stared in awe as he continued to evade their desperate attempts, remaining calm despite the growing tension fizzling in the air.

"He's amazing!" I gawked. "How does he do it?"

"He has excellent hearing," Ezra chimed with pride, like a mother bird watching her young fly across the horizon. "He'd outrun a cop with his eyes closed, I guarantee."

I smiled at the boy and nudged his shoulder affectionately. "Guess he's faster than you then, huh?" I teased.

His eyes jumped open as he asked in astonishment "Excuse me?"

"Well, look at him. No one's been able to touch him, let alone catch him!" I grinned, patting his shoulder and stating lightly "You on the other hand, well..."

His eyes lit up in a joking glee as he shrugged my hand away and puffed out his chest. "I'll have you know I could easily snag those keys if I felt like it," he said, a hint of mischief behind his fake veil of annoyance.

I smirked, prodding "Then why don't you jump in, tough guy?"

He shot me a relaxed smile and replied "I wouldn't want to embarrass everyone else now, would I?"

Giving his shoulder a playful shove I retorted "Sure, sure. That's very humble of you."

He grinned in amusement, before something caught his attention, causing him to glance back at the chaos before us. I followed his gaze, struggling to find his target before seeing a lithe figure step out from behind someone, before disappearing behind another. My eyes flickered between the constant shifting of contestants before catching the stranger's bright red bandanna between the crowd. I focused on the figure, realising it was a young girl with curly black hair and earthy skin. She moved like a fish in the ocean as she slipped between and behind the approaching contenders, matching her footsteps with theirs while growing ever closer to Mole.

"Clever thing..." Ezra muttered under his breath.

"What is it?" I asked, my eyes still transfixed by the girl.

The boy hummed in approval, before replying "She's using the sound of the others to throw him off. If she follows in their footsteps, Mole will only hear one person approaching, and won't even realise she's there until it's too late."

I gazed at her with a newfound admiration, even more excited than before to see how it would end. But opponents were dropping out left and right, returning to the crowd with a defeated huff or grunt of frustration. They were losing patience and energy. The girl continued to follow the footsteps of the contestants, growing closer and closer to her goal, but the longer she took the less people were left standing in the ring.

Suddenly my heart jumped into my throat though as she paused behind a teenage boy who had just dashed forward to grab the keys. As expected, Mole had easily knocked him aside, sending the distraught boy back to the crowd in defeat. She was so close now, only a few steps away at most. Just grab them! I thought fiercely to myself. You're so close!

But then, just as she crouched to reach for his boot, another girl sprinted forward from the line. Mole twisted in preparation for the loud teen and accidentally hit the first girl's shoulder in the process. He stumbled for a moment in surprise at his close call before sliding to the side just in time to shove the running girl into the startled first girl. They collided with a painful thud, the second girl jumping up and storming away in embarrassment and leaving the other teen to pull herself up with a shake of her head. She returned to the edge of the ring before turning around with a new look of determination of her face.

"She's persistent," I said to Ezra, noticing that his gaze was trained on her solely.

"She doesn't quit, that's a good quality in a street teen," he replied, his eyes glazed in a deep thought.

I kept my eyes locked on the girl as she began to start her tedious trek back the centre. She did the same strategy as last time, following in the footsteps of those who dared approach. But there were far less contestants than before, and she struggled to find an easy path towards her goal. If she was going to win she needed to go faster.

Suddenly the third contestant was knocked to the side by a perfectly timed shove by Mole, returning to the crowd with a sigh of defeat. Now there was only the girl and another boy in the ring. I glanced around and realised that no one seemed keen to step back into the circle, watching on with gloomy expressions.

I returned my anxious gaze to the girl as she watched the boy, her last contestant to tag along with, bolt forward and scramble for the keys. Mole, of course, dodged him without hesitation, tagging his shoulder and sending the boy back to the edge of the ring. The boy didn't dare step in for another try, his head hung low in exhaustion.

Now there was only the girl.

"She'll never get close enough now," I whispered to Ezra as everyone watched the two figures, as still as statues. "As soon as she moves he'll hear, and she'll be done for."

Ezra nodded thoughtfully, his eyes narrowing. "No one will step in to help her though..." he murmured softly.

I turned back to the scene at hand, my fingers twitching nervously for the teen as she shot a desperate glance to the crowd. No one returned her gaze. She was alone now, and she knew it. Her eyes flickered back and forth in a flurry of deep thought, trying to figure out how she could possibly get close enough without being heard. With the audience being so deathly silent there was almost no hope for a stealthy approach, and as all the previous contestants had learnt, a full-on charge wouldn't work either.

Defeat welled in the girl's crystal eyes as she took a shaky breath, Mole shifting his head back and forth while searching for a sound that could alert him to the next attack. I couldn't help but feel sorry for the determined teen. She had tried so hard to claim the prize and yet was held back by those around her. If only someone stepped in...

But steadying herself, I stared in panic as she shifted her foot the side. No! I thought to myself. He'll hear!

She winced as the tile squealed beneath her boot, the noise soft, yet loud enough to catch Mole's attention. He went to turn around, his head perking up in alarm as I felt my muscles go rigid. Someone jump in! I begged to myself. Someone has to jump in! Someone, anyone-!

And suddenly, as if a wildfire had ignited beneath my feet I sprinted forward, my footsteps sounding like thunder in the once silent warehouse.

Mole twisted back in surprise as I came barrelling towards him, forcing him to shift his stance as he weighed up my approach. I could hear the gasps and murmurs breaking out around the edge of the ring as the tension doubled with each second I drew closer. He was almost in reach now, within a split second he could easily tag me, sending me back to the start or even to the floor if he so pleased. But I had a different plan in mind.

Just before I reached him I twisted to the side and darted away, sprinting along the rim of the crowd as the penetrating stare of the audience burnt into my skull. Mole turned in confusion, following the beat of my footsteps as I quickly twisted for another go. He was ready, his arms protecting his face while he bounced on his feet lightly, ready to dodge at a moment's notice.

But just like before, I twirled aside at the last moment, skirting the circle again as he turned on the spot, tracking my path.

I cast a gaze to the startled girl, still standing eerily still as she watched me with wide eyes. "What are you waiting for? An invitation?!" I called sharply.

This seemed to kick her back into gear, shaking her head as she turned her focus back to Mole, who remained only a few steps away. The Spirit, thinking my words had been directed at him, finally spoke "You realise I'm the one who tags you right?"

I smirked, continuing to run along the edge of the crowd. "I'd like to see you try," I laughed, hoping I could hold his attention long enough that he didn't notice the girl inching her way towards him.

"Come a little closer if you're so sure," he mused, a smile cracking his lips.

I kept my eyes tracked on the Spirit, waiting for the right moment, the perfect opportunity. He did another rotation, following my chorus of footsteps, until the girl was crouched right behind him like a predator ready to pounce.

There was my chance. Twisting on the spot I dashed straight for Mole again, and this time, I didn't intend on stopping. He readied himself once more, the keys jangling at his feet as he shifted his weight.

Everything else seemed to blur as the adrenaline rushed through my veins, blood pounding in my ears as the distance between us shortened. He was focused on me solely, anticipating my next move. Good. Because he would never guess what happened next.

And just before we collided, I dropped into a slide, causing him to jump to the left so not to get knocked over. I skidded across the tiles for a few moments longer, before finally slowing to a stop and pushing myself to my feet.

Turning to face the Spirit, I saw a smile of amusement curling his lip. "You missed," he pointed out teasingly.

But I simply grinned, retorting "Did I?"

This caused him to pause, his expression growing still as he went to step forward. But he froze, as did everyone watching, when the clang of keys didn't echo with his footstep.

There was silence for a few moments longer, before the keys rattled, though to his horror it didn't come from him. He lifted his blindfold and turned in surprise to reveal the girl, her dark skin beaming in delight as she held the set of keys up for everyone to witness.

Silence.

It was all that could be heard at first. Everyone was too shocked, too awestruck to respond. And then, as graceful as a swan, the cloaked figure of the Ghoul jumped down beside the girl, throwing her hand in the air as he called "Our champion!"

The warehouse erupted in cheers of excitement and amazement. It was if a stampede had been let loose as the people clapped and hollered and whistled in joy, the contestants who'd lost even clapping in appreciation of the girl's achievement. When the cheering finally died down the Ghoul shook the winner's hand firmly and asked "What's your name kid?"

"Skye," she replied, her deep blue eyes shimmering in admiration as she chimed "It's such an honour to meet you Ghoul, I-I've heard so many great stories about you!"

The Ghoul's eyes softened at her praise, patting her shoulder reassuringly as he spoke "And now you'll have a great story to your name too." He glanced up at one of his Spirits and with a nod of his head, they dropped the coat down towards them. It fell softly into the Ghoul's arms before he unravelled it and cast it over Skye's thin shoulders. "The coat of a champion!" He exclaimed warmly.

The puffy jacket seemed to swallow the lithe girl whole as she tucked herself in, nuzzling into the soft fur of the hood with pride. With a dip of his head the Ghoul strode away, her eyes still trailing after his form even as Mole stepped forward to congratulate her. "You played well," he said warmly, snapping her from her daze. "I didn't even know you were there until it was too late."

Skye's cheeks burnt red as she shook his hand bashfully, replying "W-Well you know, beginners' luck. Really, I couldn't have done it without-" And as if a lightbulb had gone off in her head she glanced around with sharp eyes, searching for something, until her stare finally they locked in my direction.

It took me a second to realise her eyes were fixed on me until she politely waved goodbye to Mole and started pacing in my direction. The neat circle had disintegrated as the crowd began to chat and murmur in anticipation, but her path was clear, and her face was pulled into a joyful smile. When she finally stopped before me I opened my mouth to introduce myself, but was cut off when she lunged forward and embraced me in a tight hug. I yelped in surprise but she didn't seem to hear, exclaiming "Thank you so much! I couldn't have won without you! I thought I was a goner!"

I hesitated for a moment, before replying sheepishly "It's fine... I couldn't leave you hanging like that. You did all the hard work."

She released me from her strangling hug and gazed at me with what I could only assume was respect. But what I didn't expect was words to start tumbling from her mouth like a flood, her eyes beaming as she blurted "I'm Skye! Are you a Spirit? You sure moved like one! Do you know the Ghoul? Do you think I could speak to him? What's your name? I really would love to-"

"Whoa whoa," I cut in, struggling to process her onslaught of speech. "Slow it down a little."

Skye glanced away with a nervous chuckle, murmuring "Sorry... I just get so caught up in my thoughts sometimes..."

I smiled softly and took a moment to clear my mind. "To answer your first question, no, I'm not a Spirit," I began, smirking as I added "Though I'm honoured you think I am."

She chuckled bashfully, grinding her foot into the tile below as she listened intently.

"Second, I only know the Ghoul as well as you do. Probably less, actually," I spoke.

At that her expression dropped in disappointment, the light in her eyes fading a little.

I offered a weak smile, before saying "And thirdly, Sabine. My name's Sabine."

"Oh... oh!" Her gaze brightened once more as she gazed up at me with a wide grin. "You're the one that brought the food!"

I shrugged, murmuring "It wasn't really me it was-"

"I thought that was so clever!" She cut in, her voice welling with awe as she continued "I wish I had thought of that! Not that I have anywhere to get food from... but still! What a great way to start! The Phantom will have his eye on you for sure after that!"

I froze, feeling my muscles go tense as I murmured "What?"

"The Phantom? You know, the leader of the Spirits?" she said with a confused tilt of her head, like I was the one who had said something strange.

"I know who he is. But why would he be watching me?" I replied awkwardly.

"Well, only the Phantom and Ghoul pick new Spirits. Everyone knows that," she answered, her eyes beaming with pride as she added "I've seen them before! The Ghoul, that is. I saw him at the last Star Gaze. I'm hoping he'll invite me to the Spirits if I win the championships!"

"Oh... I see," I mumbled, lost in thought.

"You'd make a great Spirit," Skye pointed out with a warm smile. "You should compete with me. Maybe the Ghoul would invite both of us!"

I scoffed light-heartedly, shooting the optimistic teen a smirk as I replied "No thanks, cloaks aren't really my style."

That made her chuckle, her eyes glimmering with amusement. "Who knows, you might change your mind once winter comes. Maybe the Phantom will hear of your gift today and offer you a place to stay!"

I narrowed my eyes into a playful glare, scoffing "I think I'd notice if the Phantom, leader of the Spirits, was watching me from afar."

"Hey Sabine," Ezra's voice chimed as I glanced over my shoulder to see the boy approaching. "I saw your moves out there. You did great!"

I offered him a warm smile as he stood by my side, his electric eyes glimmering in a mixture of respect and pride. "Yeah, well, you weren't stepping up anytime soon now we're you," I teased with a nudge of his shoulder.

"I thought I'd best leave it to you. Wouldn't want to make you feel bad by winning straight away," he grinned, shrugging his shoulders half-heartedly.

I frowned, shoving the cocky boy to the side before the Ghoul's voice echoed from above once more, his voice strong as he called "The second round is commencing now. And you're prize? How about a crate of rations just for you!"

Excited murmurs broke throughout the crowd, what felt like hundreds of hungry gazes blazing into the Ghoul's figure as he added warmly "And don't worry. This is a game you're all familiar with; Tails!"

Some excited cheers rose from the crowd as the everyone divided into the audience and the contestants. Skye glanced up at the Ghoul with glee, saying "I came second last time, and I'll come first for sure tonight!"

"Feeling confident?" I asked warmly.

She gazed back at me with a sharp nod, saying "You betchya! You should join too. It would make it a fun game for sure."

I opened my mouth to decline but Ezra cut in swiftly, chiming "Of course she will. The more the merrier."

Whipping around to the boy I went to snap at him until Skye exclaimed "Great! Come on then! We better get ready!" She began to walk away, gesturing for me to follow. Her eyes were filled with such a childish excitement that I almost felt bad about not wanting to join. It had really been a spur of the moment idea when I jumped in last time. I hadn't really planned on joining at all, but remembering the sense of freedom and control when I had sprinted into the ring, I felt a sudden urge to follow the optimistic teen into another round of adventure.

Ezra snickered at my side, murmuring "Come on, it'll be fun."

A smile slithered across my lips. He suddenly let out a yelp as I grasped his wrist tightly, pulling him close and whispering "If I go, you go too."

And just like that I sprinted forward, dragging him by the arm towards the accruing contestants as Skye slowed down so we could catch up. "Brought a friend hm?" She asked with a laugh.

"Like he said, the more the merrier," I smirked, shooting the boy a mischievous glance of his shoulder.

He rolled his eyes but didn't object as the three of us made our way to the large group of competitors. Many of them were just chatting with each other, while others kept their eyes fixed on the Ghoul above who sat perched atop a beam like a bird watching its prey. And when everyone had finally sorted themselves, he rose to his feet and announced "The rules are simple. A Spirit will come around and provide you with one cloth sash. This is your tail. Tuck it into your pocket so that at least half of it hangs out. If you try to tie it, hold it, or tuck it in too far you are out! Am I clear?"

"Yes Ghoul," the contestants called out loud and clear.

His expression softened with approval, continuing "Your goal is easy; Steal the tail of others without losing your own. If you have no tails, you're out. The last one standing wins!"

The group buzzed with excitement as the hooded figures began passing out the strips of cloth. After receiving my own from a small boy, I glanced over at Ezra and mused "Think you'll win?"

He scoffed. "I don't think so," he grinned. "I know so."

I chuckled at his nonchalant attitude. "I wish you'd act more like this at home," I said warmly. "Minus the ego, maybe."

His smile dimmed slightly, his excitement fading. "Here it's safe... safe to be confident, safe to have fun..." he murmured, his gaze hardening as he said "But out there, in the real world, you have to be strong, and selfish, and distant. If you don't..." His words trailed away into silence, his eyes vacant.

Offering a sympathetic glance, I gently held his arm in an attempt to catch his gaze as I replied "But you know you're safe at the Ghost right? Kanan and Hera, they're the most trustworthy people I know."

The darkness in his ocean blue eyes didn't lift, but he fixed his gaze to Ghoul who began ordering those who weren't participating out of the middle of the warehouse. "Trust is easily broken," he spoke coldly. "It's because I'm careful who I trust that I survive."

My smile faded for the boy. Even in his short time at the Ghost he had grown from the secluded, guarded teen that had entered the home on his first day, so much so that I forgot the trials of his past. All he'd known was loneliness, and though Kanan and Hera had never said anything explicit about his history, I imagined being alone felt safer for him after what he had been through. Even here, in a warehouse full of welcoming Spirits and locals, Ezra held a mask up to them as well, shielding himself behind the swift, confident Six.

The people here would never know about his gentle and compassionate heart, just as our foster parents back at the Ghost would probably never see his honed skill and cocky swagger. And in that respect I felt lucky to witness Ezra in both worlds; caring and stern, friendly and distant, quiet and fierce...

I hoped one day he would learn that he was safe with Kanan and Hera.

But for now my attention snapped back to the tournament, jolting in surprise to see that all those who weren't competing had climbed up the metal chambers and were sitting along the shelves, watching us intently. The ground now clear of the crowd, the large aisles and corridors had opened up to reveal a maze of empty space. With a graceful leap the Ghoul landed in front of the competitors, his aquamarine eyes glimmering in delight as he gazed over us. "Now, I can see there is some pretty tough competition today," he mused with a smirk behind his mask. "So let's make it a little more interesting shall we?"

Unclipping his cloak and cloth slid off his shoulders to the floor, his matted brown hair sticking out like a crow's nest. I watched in confusion as the few Spirits who had passed out the tails also removed their cloaks, some chucking them to the sides while others carefully laid them on the floor. "If you thought the last tournament was hard, you better back out now," the Ghoul grinned, the pearly white of his mask reflecting the lights above. "Because this time you've not just racing each other, you'll be racing us too."

I could see Skye shift anxiously in the corner of my eye, turning to ask "What's wrong?"

She shot me an uncertain gaze, murmuring "I'm going to embarrass myself in front of the Ghoul, I can tell!"

I tilted my head in confusion. "I'm sure you'll do fine, look how you went last time."

"But that was only because of your help!" she bristled, her gaze turning to the floor as she muttered "I'll never be a Spirit if I can't even steal a pair of keys by myself..."

I opened my mouth to reply but was surprised to hear Ezra voice cut through, saying "You want to impress the Ghoul? There's no better chance than during a tournament against him."

I glanced over at the boy in surprise, but Skye leant forward intently and exclaimed "But I'll never win against him!"

Ezra cast her an amused glance from the corner of his eye, before tucking his tail into his pocket and replying "You don't have to win, you just have to get his attention. Trust me, he'll care much more if you're quick on your feet than if you're a winner."

Skye looked uncertain, as if she wasn't entirely convinced by the older boy's words. But nevertheless she shook her head and tucked her cloth into a pocket as well, accepting the challenge that laid before her with a determined gaze.

With a final glance at the two beside me I hung the cloth from my side and awaited the Ghoul's next words with excitement.

"Remember everyone, play fair, play safe, and most importantly, have fun," The leader spoke, his eyes shimmering with electricity. "You have one minute to spread out. Now go!"

And like a stampede everybody rushed from the centre of the clearing, branching out like the limbs of a tree until we had spread out as far as possible. I found myself sprinting down a faraway aisle and casting a glance over my shoulder, just to make sure I hadn't been followed. And though the centre was now empty, I was indeed still being watched.

I gazed up and realised that all the spectators, all those who hadn't been joined the tournament, were peering down at me from the shelves on the metal cabinets. They whispered encouragement as tension rose through the air like a wildfire. I couldn't help but feel somewhat vulnerable, knowing that their chatters and murmuring would draw attention for other contestants.

But to my relief their voices stilled as a shrill whistle broke out from the roof.

That must have been the signal, which meant the game was starting! Anticipation coiled in my gut as I paced cautiously through the aisle, ignoring the many gazes that had locked onto my every move. They were silent at least which was some kind of relief to my pounding heartbeat. I just had to stay focused… I didn't need to win after all, it was just for a little fun right?

Suddenly a chorus of cheering broke out from the other end of the warehouse, and casting my gaze to the hooded figure perched on the crossbeams at the centre he called "One down! Twelve to go!"

One eliminated already?! How did that happen?!

My steps grew faster as I nervously peered around the end of the aisle, making sure it was clear before taking a left. I tried to ignore the fact that it had taken barely a minute for someone to get eliminated and instead focused on slipping through the shadows across the wall. If they didn't see me then maybe I had a chance of surviving.

And then, with a thunderous cry, two boys barrelled through the aisle just ahead of me, tussling with each other as they clawed for the other's tail. They mustn't have noticed me in their flurry, and pressing myself against the wall I tried to fade from view as much as possible. One boy pushed the other away with a grunt before circling him to get a better shot at the tail.

This caused the other boy to back up, straight in my direction!

I watched with baited-breath, frozen in place as the two inched closer and closer towards me. It astounded me that they hadn't realised I was there but with a flash of realisation I saw how this was exactly what I needed.

I didn't dare move though. They would come to me if I was patient enough anyway.

And just as the boy backing away took another step I lunged forward and caught his tail, startling him and his opponent so much so that they couldn't even react besides staring at me in awe. It was only the roar of cheering that broke them from their trance, the now empty-handed boy sagging his shoulder in defeat.

"Another down! Eleven to go!" the Spirit's voice yelled in the distance.

But my attention was quickly taken away from my small victory by the other boy who pelted towards me without so much as a warning. Spinning away just in time I managed to avoid his dash and regain my frazzled thoughts. The game wasn't over yet. I had to be ready! Tucking my new tail into my belt I readied myself for his next attack, blocking out the excited murmurs echoing above me.

The boy spun around swiftly, his matted brown hair swaying as he prepared to lunge again.

I wasn't going to wait for him though, and instead sprinted forward in a zig-zag pattern. His alarmed hazel gaze darted back and forth in an attempt to follow my fluid motions. But I was too fast, and unfortunately for him, I was top of my class for racing. Coach Rex even encouraged me to become an athlete, though I politely declined. Art was still my passion, but speed was also my weapon.

And before long I was right beside the teen, ramming into his side to throw him off balance just long enough to drag the tail from his pocket.

But to my surprise he fell down harder than I expected and hit the tiled floor with a winded grunt. I stared in surprise, unaware the shove had even been that strong. I had done it many times on my classmates during games such as these and it had never been strong enough to throw them to the floor. But then again, my classmates weren't half-starved like these poor teenagers were they?

My face softening, I offered my hand out to the fallen boy, but he grumbled a frustrated sigh and staggered to his feet, ignoring my outstretched palm. Before I'd even had a chance to say something he was storming away down one of the aisles as the spectators watched on tensely.

Suddenly my victory didn't feel so powerful anymore…

But the excited applause that broke out a few moments later pulled me back to the situation at hand, almost drowning out another explosion of clapping further down the warehouse.

"Two down! Nine to go!" another call echoed.

Shaking my head I pushed aside my bubbling guilt. It was still a game after all, right? Wasn't that the point of it? To have fun? I'm sure Ezra wouldn't have felt ashamed for outmatching his opponent, wherever the blue-haired teen was.

So drawing my confidence back together I set off down another aisle, trying my best to remain on the outskirts of the warehouse. The middle area was vulnerable from every side, and it seemed to be where all the cheering erupted the most. At least if I was close to the wall I could see where my attackers were coming from.

Another blast of excitement set off somewhere behind me.

"One down! Eight to go!"

I turned on my heel and focused on the source of the applause. If there was someone close by, they may be unprepared if I made a move. Risky? Perhaps. But I also had three tails on my belt, enough that I could risk losing one.

Stepping carefully towards the intersection I peered my head around the corner, enough so that I could see the lithe girl shaking hands with a boy in the middle of the aisle. He must have lost his tail as she now had two strung across her belt, the boy offering a sheepish goodbye before climbing the shelves to join the other spectators. She waved to him from the ground and conversed briefly with some of the audience.

She hadn't noticed I was there yet, but if I tried to get any closer she would see me for sure. There was no way to approach her stealthily, and I didn't know her speed or strength just yet, which meant I would also be going into the charge blind. It almost didn't seem worth the trouble anymore.

I considered the situation for a few moments longer before making up my mind, opting to stay in the game as long as possible than risk it for an extra tail.

But just as I shifted my foot to slide away another burst of clapping was released, and I noticed the girl turn her attention to the far end of the aisle, as if anticipating her next opponent. But instead, she had turned her back to me, leaving her tails vulnerable to my attack.

Almost on instinct I bolted forward at the brief opportunity, the hollering of the crowd drowning out the pounding of my feet. I tensed my muscles as her figure rushed closer and closer, still unaware of my approach. I stretched my hand forward. The audience above stared in a mixture of shock and anticipation.

"One down, seven left!"

And just as the announcer's booming voice finished the sentence the girl turned, her eyes shooting open at the sight of my rapidly impending attack. But she remained still for just a moment too long which was all I needed to snag one of her cloth tails and dash away before she could counter.

I spun on my foot, my heart drumming out of my chest as I gazed back at the startled teen.

She seemed dumbfounded, patting her side even as her lime green eyes stayed fixed on me. And when realisation finally set in I was surprised to see her smile, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Well played," she mused with a shift of her stance. "But I'll be getting that back thanks."

I smirked, pushing the fourth tail into my belt as I replied "Then I guess you'll have to take it from me."

Suddenly I was jolted to the side as a new figure rammed into the conversation. I stumbled but swiftly regained my footing, enough so that I could see the newest contestant barrel towards the girl with terrifying speed. She barely even had a chance to blink before the lithe boy had slid into a crouch and knocked her from her feet, dragging her last tail from her pocket as she stumbled to the floor.

I stared at the boy in shock. Even the powerful cries of the audience seemed dull as I stared into his electric blue eyes.

"Ezra!" I called with a grin when the cheering finally died down. "I thought you'd have been taken out for sure!"

He flashed his teeth in a proud smile. "No, no, I've been doing quite well thanks."

I rolled my eyes, ignoring his smug demeanour as he flaunted his total of three tails, thanks to his surprise move on the girl. And though I offered a sympathetic glance to the fallen teen she didn't seem to mind, regaining her footing and joining her friend on the shelves above. "Well don't you worry then," I teased, turning my gaze back to the boy. "I'll make sure you get eliminated this time."

"I doubt that. Because thanks to you…" he said, pulling what I realised was another tail from behind his back into view. "I won't be getting eliminated anytime soon."

My eyes shot open in alarm as I quickly patted my belt, jumping to realise there were only three left attached. That sneaky kid! He took one of mine when he ran past! And just when I raised my gaze to the boy he shot me a cocky salute, before twisting around to bolt down the aisle.

"Ezra Bridger!" I barked, but my harsh voice fell flat as he disappeared around the corner.

I wondered for a moment why he hadn't come back to attack, but I figured he was giving me a little grace. Which was exactly what I needed at the moment as I had jumped into this fight and ended up with the same amount of tails as before. Perhaps I should have stayed away in the first place. It seemed I'd only gained the attention of opportunistic opponents like Ezra, and I got the feeling he wouldn't turn tail if we crossed paths again.

So sticking to my old strategy I made my way back to the wall and circled the area through the shadows. As the minutes went by more cheering burst off, all coming from the centre of the clearing, until the final opponents began dropping so fast that two went off practically at once.

"Two down! Four left!" the Spirit's voice boomed. "All of you remaining, please enter the middle clearing."

I froze in my steps, casting an alarmed glance to the beams above. It confused me as to why they would call such a thing until one of the audience members watching from above called "There's under five people left, so tah speed it up they get you all in the middle. You betta go or they might eliminate ya!"

I nodded gratefully at the spectator, a small, scrawny boy, and began to make my way through the maze towards the middle. It was the one place I didn't want to go, but it seemed I didn't have much of choice as the crowds shifted like the waves of an ocean to get a better view. For each aisle I jogged through I tried to think of the least exposed position to be in even though I knew it would be impossible without scoping out the middle first. Who knew what I was about to come up against!

Remembering Ezra's skirt of tails I assumed he would be there waiting for me with a devious grin, ready to steal mine once more. But then I thought about Skye, and wondered if she had survived the many eliminations that had occurred. Would she get a chance to battle the Ghoul? Would I have to battle the Ghoul today?

I wanted to hope not but something deep within urged me forward with a new speed, ready to face whatever challenge was set before me. It was a determination I hadn't felt in a long time.

And turning the corner of an aisle I skidded to a halt as the many faces of the towering crowd turned to gaze down on me. Their stares burnt into me like fire as I shifted uncomfortably, now standing in the open with no sign of a hiding spot or shelter in view.

I practically jumped out of my skin when a voice spoke behind me, their voice gentle despite their startling entrance. "You've done well!" the voice congratulated.

I spun around and was shocked to see two hooded figures standing at the pathway I had just come through, blocking any chance of escape. And as I shot a sceptic glance to the other branching aisles I shuddered to realise more Spirits were blocking them as well.

"Don't worry," the teenager chimed again, as if noticing my unease. "I'm sure you'll do great."

"Glad someone thinks so," I chuckled nervously.

He smiled sympathetically, and as the crowd began buzzing further down the clearing, he called "Best of luck. You're going to need it!"

And as if on que the audience cheered as a new figure burst into the middle, adorned in a shimmering pale mask. I straightened as the Ghoul almost immediately fixed his gaze on me, his aquamarine eyes glimmering in surprise. Perhaps he didn't think I would make it this far but he veiled his shock with a grin, starting to make his way towards me at an unnervingly casual pace. He acted like he wasn't about to rob me of tails to add to his collection of five!

But then, leaping from an aisle like a nimble cat the blue haired teen himself sped behind the Ghoul and snagged a tail for himself.

The Spirit stumbled only for a moment before whipping around to face the triumphant boy, cackling "So you made it! Good! I've been waitin' for a rematch!"

"Hope you're ready to lose again then," Ezra retorted as he bolted in the other direction, the masked teen following hot on his literal tail.

I watched as Ezra drew him into the centre of the clearing before twisting around and beginning a tense game of darting back and forth to snag a tail. Ezra's five against the Ghoul's four, but almost as quickly as he'd lost it the leader managed to reclaim his prize and strip Ezra of a spare. It was like a tug of war as they lost and gained each other's prize like flashes of lightning.

And entranced in their graceful dances I almost didn't catch the figure barrelling towards me from the corner of my eye.

I twisted just in time and caught the stranger by the sleeve, shoving them aside as I readied my stance for a battle. But realising my attacker's face I froze, smiling widely as I spoke warmly "Skye? Is that you?"

"Sabine!" the girl exclaimed, her fluffy coat almost hiding her petite features. "You made it to the finals!"

"So did you," I replied encouragingly. "But I'm afraid Ez- I mean… Six might have beaten you to the Ghoul."

The girl cast her intense blue eyes to the two boys grappling further away and smirked, stating nonchalantly "Don't worry, I think the Ghoul will deal with him soon enough."

"What makes you so sure?" I grinned, circling her precariously.

"He's up against the Ghoul!" Skye replied with awe. "The only person better than the Ghoul would be the Phantom! So no, I think your friend is a goner sadly."

I watched her with amusement and retorted "We'll see about that."

Without warning I lunged forward, clawing for the tail hanging on her hip until she stepped away and reached for mine. We snagged each other's at the same moment, leaving us in the same position as before and causing us to stare at each other, bewildered and a little embarrassed. We laughed it off though and started again, this time, Skye rushing forward in a blur of motion.

I dodged with ease and reached for her only tail, but the puffy jacket that had encased the girl blocked it from view as she immediately spun to defend herself.

Stumbling, she managed to rip mine from the safety of my pocket and dart away, a triumphant roar from the crowd rising at her victory. I took the chance to collect my thoughts as we now stood on even ground, her gaze sharp and focused as I flexed my muscles warily. It had been a while since I'd done anything this intense… not even the school sport lessons made the blood pound in my eardrums as it did now!

But the adrenaline, the competitive fire that seared under my feet urged me forward with a powerful energy. I loved the sensation of gliding as I found myself running forward almost instinctually, my steps light and swift, ready to strike. I wanted to feel like this all the time!

Lost in my trance it took me a second to realise I was locked in a battle with Skye, the girl shaking her head with a strained inhale as she barely managed to escape my moves. Those blue eyes of hers flashed with panic as I regained my bearings and went for another advance. And as if realising her disadvantage she didn't waste a moment before sprinting away, her tails streaming behind her as she bolted in the opposite direction.

"Come back here!" I called teasingly as I chased after her fleeting figure.

Unfortunately for her, she was heading straight in the direction of the two boys grappling in the centre of the clearing. Gazing ahead I realised that Ezra had been stripped down to two tails, his breathing ragged as he exchanged an eager grin with the Ghoul. The older boy's already scruffy hair was hanging across his mask as he stared down the boy across from him, a totally of seven tails hanging triumphantly from his belt.

I felt the urge to run away festering in my core…

No! Not this time! The gap between Skye and I was too close to back off now. I had to keep going…

But what I didn't expect was for the girl to make a sharp turn as we skirted the two boys, barrelling straight for Ezra who unfortunately had his back turned to our chase. And like lightning she snagged his tail and bolted for the other direction, his startled gaze drawn to the fleeing girl and giving the Ghoul the chance to run forward and rob him of his last prize.

It had all happened so fast, and I stared in shock at the dumb-founded boy ahead of me. He exchanged a surprised glance with me before stiffening, calling sharply "Sabine behind you!"

I spun just in time to see Skye's speeding figure pelting towards me, her hand ready to claw for my tails. And as if I weren't in a bad position already I noticed a brown blur approaching from the corner of my sight, a chill running down my spine as I realised Skye and the Ghoul were about to tag team me like they'd done to Ezra!

But smirking, I shifted my feet and waited for their attack. I was going to give them a little surprise!

And just when Skye was close enough I grabbed her outstretched arm and spun her in an arc, straight into the Ghoul who came barrelling forward. Before either had a chance to register what was going on I had slammed them into one another, and in the Ghoul's moment of shock, I snagged a tail and sped off as fast as my legs could will me.

"Whoo! Go Sabine!" Ezra's voice cried triumphantly before the crowd burst into cheering at the sneaky move.

I glanced over my shoulder and smiled to see that the boy was shouting his praise as he made his way to join the mass of people sitting along the shelves, their deafening applause making my heart flutter. Taking a moment to slow and catch my breath, I realised that Skye and the Ghoul were duking it out where I had left them, and in a surprise turn of events Skye had managed to steal one of the Spirit's tails in the fray.

Excitement crackled in the air as the girl seemingly bested the leader, but as quickly as it had come, it was gone as the Ghoul gracefully striped her of all her tails, one by one. The girl didn't even have a chance to defend herself against his fluid attacks, and before she could even blink she was out of the game.

And as the crowd cheered once more I watched as the Ghoul offered his hand to the girl in friendly shake, saying something that unfortunately was drowned out by the noise.

Skye hesitated at first, but a smile spreading across her lips, she found herself shaking his hand once more and joining the awaiting horde above. Despite her loss she seemed please with herself, her joyful nature untampered by the defeat. I offered a smile to the girl when her gaze caught mine which she replied with an enthusiastic wave, her eyes beaming with delight.

And as she took her place on the shelves a terrible realisation dawned upon me. I was in the final two of the game, which meant I had to fight-!

Snapping my eyes back to the clearing I stifled a cry of surprise as the Ghoul sprinted towards me with unnatural speed, his aquamarine orbs sparking with electricity. It took all my strength to break from my paralysed trance and jump away just as the Spirit came within reach. But unlike the others I had faced he quickly adjusted and followed hot on my trail as I desperately sprang away, scrambling to avoid his swift hands.

I could hear his footsteps pounding behind me, growing closer and closer as my heartbeat grew louder and louder. I knew I wouldn't be able to keep this up for much longer, but after witnessing the Ghoul rob Ezra and Skye of their tails within a matter of seconds I wasn't sure facing him head on would be much better. And yet it was the only option left as he closed the space between us in each passing second.

So steeling myself, I spun on my heel and charged at the Ghoul with a fierce battle cry in the hopes to cover up my uncertainty.

But his crystal gaze seemed to pierce straight through my façade as he surged forward without a hint of slowing, as if daring me to back out before we collided. And though the distance between us was small and my chance to swerve aside was fading the moment seemed to drag on forever, debating whether dodging was exactly what he wanted me to do or if he was really going to let us crash together.

In the end, I chose neither, and found myself using the same move I'd used on Mole and slid to the floor. The tiles scraped across my elbows but I managed to throw the Ghoul off guard as I kicked out his legs. Stumbling, the Spirit took a few moments to regain his balance which was all I needed to snag a tail from under him.

A cheer rose above and filled me with pride as I victoriously attached the cloth to my others and jumped to my feet. Four tails in total. Not bad for someone's first Star Gaze!

But falling into the same trap as Skye had, I had let my small prize blind me to the game and allow the Ghoul a perfect opportunity. He was as quick as a flash as a tail was dragged from my pocket, and spinning to face him, he managed to steal another without so much as a pause. Then another. And then another. Unsteady and surprised my collection of four had turned to zero within moments as I faced the Ghoul with wide eyes, all thirteen tails clutched in his hands with a grin.

The booming cheers of the crowd seemed dull as I stared at the Spirit in awe, amazed at how swift and agile he had been despite my first impressions when meeting him. He had truly proved himself to be something more than just an average orphan. It only made me more curious about his elusive team of Spirits…

"Good job," the Ghoul spoke warmly as he offered his hand. "You made it longer than most do against me!"

I chuckled bashfully and shook his hand, replying "It's probably just beginner's luck, that's all."

His eyes clouded in thought as he stared at me, as if he didn't quite believe my words. But offering a smile he said gently "If you say so…"

What did that mean? I opened my mouth to quiz the boy but a fellow Spirit ran up to him with his cloak in hand. The Ghoul said his thanks as he adorned his hood once more and went to join his team on the beams above, most likely to prepare the next set of games. "See you in the next challenge!" the boy called over his shoulder with a wave goodbye.

The crowd was beginning to find their way back to the floor, dispersing across the warehouse once more as lively chatter filled the room again. I jumped as words of congratulations were passed my way and friendly smiles shot in my direction. For a moment I thought I recognised some of their faces, and as a lithe girl stepped towards me I realised she was the opponent Ezra had defeated when I first crossed paths with the boy in the game. Now she stood before me, her face plastered in a grin as she said "Great work out there! That last round was really intense!"

A sheepish smile crept onto my lips as I replied "Not that I lasted very long once the Ghoul stepped in."

"Wouldn't take it personally. No one survives long against the Ghoul," a new voice chimed, a boy adored in a brown cloak and his face shadowed by his hood. A Spirit, I assumed thanks to his appearance.

He stood next to the girl and offered her another cloak, saying "Don't forget this."

"Ah! Thanks!" she said as she threw the clothing over her shoulders.

"You're Spirits then?" I asked gently, hoping they wouldn't find the question rude.

The girl nodded with pride welling in her eyes, stating "Oh yes! We've been Spirits for years now!"

"Whoa," I spoke in awe, quizzing "What's it like? Is it hard?"

"Not too bad," the boy replied nonchalantly. "So long as your strong or fast and have your wits about ya, it's not too bad."

The girl nodded in agreement and added joyfully "And actually, you'd make a pretty good Spirit!"

I doubled back in surprise, mumbling "Really?"

"Yeah, but sadly, that's not for me to decide," she chirped lightly. "Got to talk to the big boys for that!"

"Speaking of, we'd better get to our posts right now," the boy reminded her, beginning to walk away as he offered a wave over his shoulder.

"Right! It was nice to meet you!" she stumbled as she began trailing after her companion, her teeth flashing in a wide grin.

I waved at the two figures until they disappeared into the crowd and turned my gaze to the other Spirit's perched along the beams above. And though their faces were concealed by shadows, their childish laughter could be heard even from down here on the ground. They all seemed so happy, so content with lives that seemed to give them nothing but misery. I wondered what it was that pulled them through such rough times?

The girl's words passed my mind one more, and a shiver ran down my spine at the thought. I couldn't be a Spirit… could I…?

A sharp cry to my right caught my attention, but sadly, not fast enough to prepare myself for the girl that tackled into my side, knocking us both to the floor. I hit the floor with a bang and groaned until bubbling laughter exploded beside me, a familiar voice calling "Sabine that was so amazing!"

Blinking the blurriness from my eyes I was surprise to find myself staring into Skye's piercing blue eyes, the girl practically quivering from all the energy that was bound within her.

"Can you possible not crush my friend, Skye?" Ezra's voice chided as he stepped into view, blocking the overhead lights and gazing down at me with an amused gleam in his eyes.

As if only just realising she had bowled me over, her cheeks burnt a bright red as she scrambled to her feet and offered me a hand. "S-Sorry Sabine!" she exclaimed as she hauled me back onto my feet. "I was just so excited!"

I rubbed where my head had hit the cold floor and replied sarcastically "Really? Couldn't tell."

She chuckled in embarrassment, but it didn't last long as she cast her gaze to the regal figure standing on the central beam once more, his fraying cloak swaying at his ankles. "Thanks to my glorious victory tonight," the Ghoul called with a cocky bow. "The crate of food goes towards all of you!"

Thankful cheers sounded as the Spirit paced along the scaffolding, adding fondly "Take as much as you need, we don't want anything to go to waste now do we?"

The crowd shifted as figures moved towards the food pile further down the warehouse, taking their share of the prize the Ghoul had so kindly won for them. I wondered if that was the reason he'd joined the games at all? A crate of food sure was a lot to give just to one person, so maybe it had been a challenge no one was actually supposed to win? But then again, perhaps the Ghoul just liked to join the fun. He seemed like the type of person who would prefer messing around than barking orders all day after all.

"Now, to our brave competitors, there's one final challenge!" the Ghoul announced eagerly. "To test your agility, your strength, and your speed, you'll race like a true Spirit tonight and climb to the top of the building. First to the top gets the prize of this oh so precious first aid kit!"

The room suddenly buzzed at the mention of the first aid, an urgency like no other coursing through the spectators below. It dawned on me that a medical kit must have been a valuable thing to hold on this side of town, what with the lack of a hospital or for that matter, any form of medical assistance. What if someone was injured? Did they even have a way of getting help? I almost asked myself why they didn't just go to the hospital on the light side of town, until I recalled Kanan's firm words when I had asked the policeman himself many months ago.

"Orphans don't like going to those sort of places Sabine," he had answered tersely while fixing a pipe in the sink.

"But why not? Hospitals are there to help people aren't they?" I had pressed.

The man sighed deeply as that familiar haunted look glazed his eyes. "It's not as simple as that… not everyone wants to help people like them, and as you know on the streets, you take care of yourself. You're the only person you can trust out there…"

Kanan's pained words still echoed in my skull as I stared sympathetically at the crowd around me. They must have been desperate for such a prize, the ability to heal yourself in a world where no one would offer a hand. And yes, the Spirits were generous, but I imagined that those mysterious teens wouldn't know how to properly care for a wound either. What if someone got sick? Did they not get help? Did they die out here, all alone…?

I shivered at the thought, but returning my attention back to the figure above, I focused on the Ghoul's strong voice to steady myself. "Spirits will be posted along the walls to survey your progress. If there is any sign of foul play you will be eliminated immediately and taken off the challenge. I will not have any funny business, you hear me?" he stated, his voice growing sharp as he stressed the need for safety. And as his piercing gaze passed over the crowd some of the contestants seemed to understand the weight of his words, the energy that had sparked from the enthusiastic crowd dimming slightly.

When the room remained silent the Ghoul continued, his voice softening as he said "Good. Now that we have that clear I'll go through the rules. Climb your way to the top of the building and be the first to get there to win. If you don't think you can handle the heights, don't push your luck, and don't enter the challenge. If you feel unsteady during the climb let one of the Spirits know and they will guide you back to the ground. No pushing. No shoving. No fighting. Is that clear?"

A murmur of agreement passed through the crowd like a summer's breeze.

"Very good," the Ghoul spoke approvingly, his tone growing light-hearted again as he called "Well? What are you waiting for? Get to the top already!"

Startled, it took a few moments before anyone made a move, those daring enough to race for the prize suddenly scrambling for the doorway. I watched as they ran like cut snakes through the cramped warehouse and inevitably getting stuck at the narrow glass doors they had entered through. The Ghoul watched the scene with an amused smirk before making his way thoughtfully across the beams.

"Where's he going?" I murmured aloud, not really expecting a reply.

"Well," Ezra's voice caught my attention as he stood at my side, the two of us watching the fleeting figure of the Ghoul. "He's got to beat the contestants somehow right?"

I glanced at the boy with surprise. It's true, there must have been a shorter route if he was going to meet all the contestants at the top. At first I just assumed he would be naturally faster than the others but the leader made no move for any of the doors or windows. No… he was still crossing the beams, until he disappeared from view. I wonder what way he went…

It was an interesting thought, but jumping at a sharp grip on my shoulder, I stumbled as Skye exclaimed "Come on Sabine! Let's go!"

"What?" I replied, dumbfounded.

"Well it's the last round!" Skye stated as excitement rolled off her in waves. "Surely you're not going to back out of the game now?"

"Well, I don't think scaling up a building in winter was exactly what I had in mind when I joined," I replied with a playful eye roll.

But Skye's eyes welled with disappointment, and it sent a wave of shock through me so fierce it was as if I had been struck by lightning. That look… that sadness… I had seen the same displeasure in my parent's eyes, in my teachers' eyes, and now, in the eyes of my friend… would I ever escape their judgement…? I couldn't stand the thought of disappointing anyone else.

So sagging my shoulders in a sigh, I offered a light smile and said "Alright, alright. We've come this far."

The girl almost squealed in delight as she grasped onto my hand and went to bolt for the exit, calling "We better be fast if we're going to catch up!"

I gazed sceptically at the blocked doorway ahead of us, watching as the contestants pushed and shoved their way through the small glass doors. Surely there would be others that had already begun the climb too, which meant we were already at a disadvantage. There was no chance we would ever catch up in time!

Unless-!

"Wait!" I called sharply before we could join the congestion of contestants at the doorway. "Wait stop!"

Skye glanced over her shoulder with alarm, shifting from foot to foot anxiously. "But we're going to be behind if we stop," she said with a nervous bite of her lip.

Smiling lightly I rested my hand on her shoulder and asked carefully "How do you think the Ghoul is getting to the top of the building?"

Skye shot me a puzzle look. "He's climbing the walls?"

I shook my head thoughtfully and explained "He has to be faster than the contestants, which means he's going through a shorter way."

Her blue eyes shot open in surprise, asking "What are you saying?"

"I'm saying we should follow him! Whatever way he's going must be faster than climbing the walls," I replied as an excitement of my own began to bubble within my chest. "If anyone knows the fastest route it's him!"

Skye's brows furrowed in deep thought, her puffy jacket practically engulfing her small face. "Is that against the rules though?" she finally said, her eyes flashing with uncertainty.

"The Ghoul just said to get to the top, he didn't say how," I spoke proudly.

The girl continued to ponder a few moments more, until her lip quirked in a mischievous smile and she announced "Well what are we waiting for then? Let's go!"

I couldn't help but laugh at her enthusiasm and gazed over my shoulder at the boy standing a few paces away, his ocean gaze clear as crystal. "Are you coming?" I asked gently, but he shook his head swiftly, causing his navy locks to sway.

"No thanks," he said, lost in thought. "I'll… sit out for this one I think."

"Afraid you'll be beaten again?" I teased.

He rolled his eyes and waved me away dismissively, replying light-heartedly "If I joined I'd be at the top by now."

A sharp yank on my sleeve stopped me from shooting back a retort, but I managed to catch one last amused glance from Ezra before he slid into the excited crowd. I turned my attention back to Skye as she began dragging me towards one of the shelves the audience had sat on in the previous challenge, claiming "We can get to the beams from the tops of these and find out where the Ghoul went from there!"

"Let's hope this works!" I said as we hauled ourselves up the first metal shelf.

Blue eyes snapped open in alarm as Skye called back "But this was your idea!"

"Yeah," I chuckled lightly. "Didn't say it would work though."

The girl's panicked gaze followed me as I scrambled up the scaffolding, calling "That's a joke right?"

I simply smiled, dragging myself to the top of the metal tower as Skye barked my name anxiously at my silence. All I could do was laugh until she managed to join me at the top, noticing my uncontrollable chuckling and rewarding me with a light punch to the shoulder. "C'mon!" she exclaimed with a grin. "Stop laughing already and let's go!"

Allowing my laughter to settle I gazed up at the beams just above are heads and flinched when I realised they were just out of reach. "Here, I'll give you a boost," I suggested as I held out my hands as a makeshift platform. We had done the same thing plenty of times during gym lessons, surely it wouldn't be too different than that.

She nodded without a moment of hesitation and rested her foot on my locked palms. And with a quick push I managed to lift her to the sturdy metal beam above, her legs flailing for a moment before she found a secure hold. Now stable, she offered her hand down to me, and helping lift me up to the criss-crossing beams we set off in the Ghoul's footsteps. For a single moment I caught a glimpse of the world beneath my feet and froze, at first paralysed from the deathly fall but secondly watching in awe at the lively community below, like its own little contained city within the warehouse. It was amazing! Is this what it felt like for the Spirits I wondered? Watching the world from the sky like a bird soaring through the breeze.

"You right?" Skye's concerned voice called from behind.

I shook my head to break my trance and continued forward once more, replying "Yeah sorry. Just admiring the view."

"It's pretty cool huh!" she said excitedly.

Together we continued along the tracks of the elusive leader, being mindful of each step and ignoring the startling fall just inches away on each side. We passed resting Spirits on our way but they just shot us surprised glances and moved out of the path when we approached. None of them said anything, but I supposed it was a strange sight for the teens as two strangers trekked through their ranks, watching curiously as we made it to the far end of the warehouse.

Just ahead, the beams abruptly stopped and we found ourselves at the edge of the metal, gazing down at the food centre below. "I could have sworn he went this way," I muttered in confusion. "Where else could he have gone."

Skye shot me an uncertain glance, but suddenly her eyes lit up as she pointed to the roof and cried "There! Look!"

I gazed up, and sure enough, right above my head was a vent opening, the panel shifted from its place. Skye and I exchanged a glance, before climbing into the tight vent wordlessly and crawling through the maze of walls. For I moment I hesitated as we shimmied up another tight crevice. What am I doing? Climbing buildings? Crawling through vents? This is crazy! It suddenly seemed wrong. I didn't belong here, with all these amazing people. Why had I even come knowing I would be leaving it all behind tomorrow… my friends… my family…

But like a lighthouse in the pitch darkness of night, Skye glanced back at me with her shimmering ocean eyes, beaming with delight. "I think we're almost there!" she announced proudly. "The air's fresh!"

Indeed, the air was surprisingly crisp despite the narrow path we scrambled through. Doubt lingered in the back of my mind but I pushed it aside and followed the girl in front of me, trying to draw the same confidence that radiated from the teen in mountains. If she could do it, so could I right?

And before long we saw dim moonlight filtering through a grated cover ahead, excitedly pushing our way through the opening until the dry, cold air hit our skin. Skye tumbled out first and I followed ungraciously after, so wrapped up in our anticipation we hadn't even had the chance to balance ourselves before we fell onto the cold roof with a thud. But despite our clumsy fall the both of us couldn't help but laugh with what I could only describe as relief as we laid on the cemented roof, gazing up the plethora of stars before us. They twinkled in the empty sky, as if pleased with our small achievement.

"Not bad for a couple of rookies huh?" Skye chuckled.

I smiled warmly at the stranger who had become my friend throughout this crazy night, replying warmly "Yeah, we make a pretty good team."

Exchanging a proud glance, we didn't hear the light footsteps that approached as a shadow cast above us, a familiar voice chiming "I have to say, you two continue to surprise me."

Skye immediately snapped up, stumbling to her feet as I followed a little more calmly. Turning to face the hooded teen who stood before us I found myself jumping to realise no one else stood on the flat roof with us. So the plan worked! We've made it to the top before anyone else! I nudged Skye's side with a victorious smile as the girl sudden understood our success, practically bouncing with electricity as her excitement bubbled over.

I could tell she could barely contain herself as the Ghoul said warmly "You know, I've been doing this for years, and not once has anyone followed me through the vents."

A thought passed my mind, causing my smile to falter as I asked meekly "Are we going to be disqualified?"

To my relief he smiled proudly. "What for? You made it to the top didn't you?"

And without warning Skye suddenly wrapped me in a tight hug, exclaiming "We did it!"

I would have replied but the oxygen was sadly dragged from my lungs as she smothered me in her joyful outburst. It was a lovely gesture, and I was just as pleased, but breathing was still rather important in my books. And as if the Ghoul understood my predicament he calmly rested his hand on Skye's shoulder, dragging her attention back to the Spirit and releasing her constricting hold of me in turn.

I nodded gratefully to the Ghoul as his eyes shone with sympathy, before glancing over his shoulder and making his way to the edge of the roof. Watching curiously, the hooded teen leant over the lip of the edge, as if he were about to jump off the roof. But to my relief he simply yelled "Sorry folks! First place has just been taken!"

Exasperated cries broke the air, shouts of 'What?!' and 'How?!' booming through the winter night.

The Ghoul responded with a teasing tone, calling back "Takes brains as well as strength to win this game fellas."

Disgruntled groans and sighs were the only reply as the contestants presumably made their way back to the ground in defeat. The Ghoul lingered at the edge for a moment longer before turning back to us, picking up a small tin box that rested at his foot. "Well my champions," he announced warmly. "It's time for your prize!"

Once reaching us he offered the box, a small but vital first aid kit, and waited for us to take it.

"Skye can have it," I said gently. It was of no use to me, but perhaps the street teen would need it in these harsh times.

Skye's blue eyes fluttered in surprise, and as the Ghoul held it out to her with a smile, I was surprised to see her hesitate. Why wouldn't she want to take it? She had come all this way after all.

But then, shocking both the Ghoul and I, she shook her head firmly and said "I don't want to take it."

The Ghoul's eyes flickered in the moonlight, astounded.

And before he could even mutter a word she stepped forward and explained hastily "I-I mean, I don't want it for me. I want you to take it back to the Spirits! I'm sure you guys need it more than I do!"

At the girl's swift words the Spirit softened, his smile returning once more. "I see," he started calmly. "That's very generous of you."

Skye nodded meekly and took a step back to stand with me again, her jacket covering her features as she sheepishly glanced at the ground. "I just think… you should take it back to the Spirits who really need it," she mumbled quietly.

The Ghoul ran his fingers over the tin box carefully, but to my ever-growing surprise he didn't pull the prize away. Instead, he only held it out further until Skye had no choice but to grasp onto the metal kit in fear of it falling. Skye glanced up at the Ghoul with confusion as he stared at her with piercing eyes, his voice as smooth as honey as he explained "Well, I think the Spirits would appreciate it more coming from their newest member."

Suddenly time froze, locked in one paralysing moment as the winter breeze seemed to cease all together. I glanced over at Skye but her eyes were fixed on the Spirit before her, tears brimming in the corners of her ocean orbs. It looked as if she was about to say something, but she quickly covered her mouth with her hands, dropping the kit to the cement with a clang.

"No…" she breathed, her voice strained with emotions. "Am I dreaming…?"

The Ghoul chuckled at her awestruck reaction, and with a warm gaze he rested his hands on the girl's narrow shoulders, stating "Skye, you have displayed great speed, strength, and wits during your time in Lothal. But most importantly, your endless excitement has stood out like a star in the night."

The girl, for the first time since meeting her, was speechless.

"It would be an honour, Skye, if you would join us as a fellow Spirit tonight."

The tears finally spilled out over Skye's cheeks, crying fiercely "Yes! Yes, a thousand times yes!"

"We will give you food and shelter and-" the Ghoul couldn't even continue his sentence as the girl embraced him in bone-crushing hug, exclaiming "Thank you! T-Thank you so much!"

His turquoise eyes were wide with surprise, but allowing his shoulders to slacken he patted Skye's back reassuringly as she poured her overwhelming relief onto the Spirit leader. I smiled as her thrilled cries echoed across the rooftop, a warmth blooming in my chest despite the winter breeze. It filled me with pride to see the girl so happy, and to know that even in this dreary world of hers she would be safe with people who cared for her made my heart flutter.

Her future was looking bright, which is all I could ever want for the elated teen.

Finally composing herself, Skye rubbed away her tears with a hoarse chuckle and said "Sorry… It's just… I never th-though I'd hear you say those words…"

For a moment I thought I could see guilt flash across the Ghoul's gaze as he replied softly "I'm sorry it's taken so long, but we needed to know you had just as much patience as you had skill."

Blue eyes brightened as the girl asked "So… you've known about me for a while?"

"You betcha," the Ghoul announced with a grin. "From the day you entered your first tournament, the Phantom knew you had great potential. He said it would be an honour to have you in our ranks."

"Really?" Skye breathed in awe. "He really said that?"

"Of course, my second in command never lies."

I jumped at the new voice, and with equal surprise, Skye and the Ghoul both turned to face the new figure who had approached behind them. And though I was a stranger on this side of town, I could recognise that black and white cloak from anywhere.

"Phantom!" Skye cried in both shock and amazement. "I-I'm so honoured to meet you sir!"

The Phantom stepped forward, his face covered by a mask and his eyes shadowed by the rim of his hood. He was shorter than the Ghoul, but it was obvious who was in charge as the Spirit stepped aside numbly for his leader, his aquamarine orbs shrouded in confusion. The Phantom was thin but not underfed like his fellow orphans, and his voice was steady and comforting as he spoke.

"It's an honour to finally meet you," the leader replied warmly. "You've been waiting for a long time."

Skye rubbed her arm anxiously, staring at the hooded figure with a deep reverence. How long had the girl been trying to catch the Spirit's attention, I wondered? How many Star Gazes had she gone to, scrambling to win as many tournaments as possible to catch their eye? Did getting an offer to join the street gang really mean that much to her…?

But as I thought back through my night, whether it was meeting those first Spirits at the street light or dancing with the clumsy Nutmeg I realised they had all been exactly like Skye. They were just kids, kids who had been abandoned and forced to survive in a world that had turned their backs on them. The Spirits had been forged from a need to survive, to protect and shelter and save other lost souls. They had come together to save each other…

And suddenly, an understanding settled in my heart.

I watched with a warm smile as the Phantom reassuringly rested his hand on Skye's shoulder, saying "The others will be excited to meet you."

"Me too!" Skye replied with a grin. "I just hope I don't embarrass myself!"

"I'm sure you'll do great," The Phantom assured as he turned his attention to the Ghoul.

His second in command had been eerie quiet throughout the exchange, his gaze clouded as he peered at his leader curiously. "Ghoul," The Phantom started calmly, as if he hadn't noticed his friend's unease. "Do you mind introducing Skye to the other Spirits?"

The Ghoul blinked in surprise, his gaze briefly flickering in my direction before asking "Really? Wasn't there… something else you were needing me to do?"

"No, there's been a change in plans," the boy replied firmly. "It's best I handle it myself…"

The teen hesitated for a moment longer, before nodding in understanding and walking to Skye's side with a cheery smirk. "Come on now, let's not keep the Spirits waiting!" he chimed as he gestured to the exit.

But Skye's expression darkened, asking sharply "But what about the Sabine?"

"The Phantom wants to discuss something with her privately," The Ghoul explained calmly as he ushered the teen away. "She'll be back before you know it, I promise."

Skye cast me an uncertain glance but as I quickly glanced up and down the Phantom, I realised I didn't feel uneasy or stressed around him. I knew I should have been. I didn't know this boy, and I was alone and unarmed. I should have been concerned, or at the very least afraid. But I wasn't, because he wasn't a threat. No… he felt safe… and familiar…

"I'll be fine," I murmured encouragingly over my shoulder. "I'll meet you back on the ground."

The girl didn't look completely convinced, but with another reassuring nod from the Ghoul she made her way down from the roof once more, the elusive Spirit in tow.

And once the two had disappeared from the roof I turned my attention back to the figure before me, curiosity churning in my gut. What would the leader of a street gang want to do with me? I was just another face in the crowd, a random traveller who was passing by. Maybe I'd done something wrong? Was there a punishment for breaking the rules…?

Suddenly I longed for Ezra to be by my side. He would know what to do…

"I'm sure… this must be a bit confusing," the Phantom started awkwardly, his voice stripped of the formality from before.

I shifted from foot to foot nervously as the cold air stung at my face. "Yes well… If I've done something wrong, I'm happy to pay you back somehow," I replied softly.

The Spirit perked up in surprise, before shaking his head and muttering "No, no, you haven't done anything wrong. It's just I was going to get the Ghoul to do this, but…" His voice trailed off into silence.

"But what?" I pressed gently.

He didn't reply immediately, instead taking a deep breath as if he couldn't find the courage to muster the words. I waited patiently as he collected his thoughts, curious to see the ever-elusive Spirit leader so shaken. But finally, when the Phantom lifted his gaze and I found myself staring into a set of familiar electric blue eyes, he finished softly "…I realised I needed to say it myself, Sabine…"

The pieces clicked together in my mind at once, the realisation flooding over me like a powerful tsunami. I didn't want to believe it, but that voice, those eyes! There was only one person in the world who had eyes like that…

"Ezra…"

My voice was practically a whisper as I stood face to face with the boy I thought I'd known, hidden beneath the hood of the Phantom. The teen scuffed his boot against the cement anxiously, dragging his gaze back to the floor to cover his features once more.

I stared at him, paralysed in shock. "Is it really you…?" I murmured as if I hadn't fully accepted the truth before me. "Are you really…"

The teen raised his eyes once more, welling with remorse. "Yes…" he admitted, gently removing the pale mask to reveal his familiar face once more.

"I'm the Phantom, Sabine…"

Though I knew it was true, I couldn't help but stumble at the weight of his words. Ezra Bridger, the secretive, lone-wolf orphan was actually the leader of an organised group of hooded vigilantes! How had I not seen it coming? How had Kanan not found out yet?! They were living under the same roof for heaven's sake!

Questions scorched my throat as I fumbled to find my words, my mind racing a thousand miles an hour at this earth-shattering revelation.

But before I could muster my voice Ezra stepped forward and rested his hands on my shoulders, a gentle, reassuring touch as he started fearfully "Please give me a chance to explain before you say anything Sabine."

I wanted to object at first, but the apprehension swirling in the depths of his ocean eyes caused me to nod reluctantly. He had wanted to speak to me, and I would give him his chance. "Go ahead then," I murmured shakily.

Ezra sighed in relief, cold mist billowing from his mouth. "Thank you," he said as he straightened his posture and added more sternly "I trust you, you know that right? I wouldn't have brought you here… wouldn't be telling you about all this if I didn't."

I stared at him blankly, unflinching as he added "I can't stop you from saying anything, but, I can ask you not to. Not for me, but for the sake of everyone in the warehouse beneath us."

Ezra was asking me to keep a secret, a secret I wasn't sure I could keep. My expression softened as I thought of Skye, and Nutmeg, and the vibrant buskers and Spirits below. If I told them Ezra's secret, what would happen to them? I couldn't bear the thought of them getting captured. But then again, what would Kanan think if I were to hide that fact Ezra was the Phantom from him? Would he even care, now that I wasn't his child…?

There were too many conflicting thoughts battling in my head, there was no way I could decide yet. "Just start explaining," I urged in the hopes to find some clarity.

The boy nodded in understanding, his blue orbs flashing with guilt as he admitted "I never meant for all this to happen. I was just going to slip away one night, and then everything could have gone back to normal…"

"Then why did you stay…?" I muttered softly.

He glanced away wistfully, as if staring into the past. "I met the crew," he replied. "I met Kanan, and Hera, and Zeb… and you." He turned his eyes to me, sharpening under the moonlight as he said, "How could I leave?"

Longing tugged at my heart as I admitted wearily "Yeah, I know what you mean…"

Ezra's expression softened in a smile. "I never thought I'd find a family. Luck had never really been on my side with that part of my life so I decided I'd probably never have one. So when I met all of you… it was almost too good to be true," he explained, his smile fading as he spoke, "But I've been building the Spirits for many years, I couldn't just abandon my Spirits either. So… I decided to stay, and hide who I was in the hopes none of you would find out…"

I crossed my arms, to cover myself from the cold but also from the uneasy shivers running up my spine. "Then why tell me?" I asked, confusion piercing my thoughts. "Why tell me who you were if you weren't supposed to?"

A sorrow welled in Ezra's electric eyes as he turned back to me, seemingly staring into my soul as he replied, "I saw your face that day… when you found out you were being adopted."

I flinched, unaware of the tension that had bound in my shoulders.

"You think I didn't notice?" the teen pried, his tone gentle as he pointed out, "I've seen that look in hundreds of orphans, I know how you really felt that day."

A growl rose in my throat as I snapped "You don't know anything about me!"

"I know you don't want to leave!" Ezra threw back, his gaze hardening. "Stop lying to yourself Sabine."

"What lie?!" I snarled in defence, gritting my teeth.

The boy's eyes flared as he retorted "Just say it. You don't want to be adopted!

"Of course I want to be adopted!" I barked sharply.

"Really?" Ezra scoffed. "Because you're making it hard to belie-"

"I want to be adopted by Kanan and Hera!"

The boy froze, surprised by my outburst. I stared back at him through slitted eyes, growling "There? Happy now? I said it."

He blinked, too shocked to reply.

I turned to glare at my boots, partially out of fear of how Ezra would react. Would he think I was acting immaturely? Being selfish? It was what I was being after all. Wanting to be adopted by Kanan and Hera was unrealistic of me. They were foster parents, they had plenty of kids come through the Ghost and none of them had ever asked to stay with them. I was being irrational, I knew it, and I had been trying to tell myself that the whole week but I thought maybe if they had adopted Zeb… just maybe…

"I get it."

The understanding in Ezra's voice caught me by surprise, glancing up to see that Ezra had pulled his hood down and was gazing at me sympathetically. "I get why you don't want to leave them," he said meekly. "They're your family… and they're leaving you behind…"

"But they're not, I'm just being stupid," I muttered with a shake of my head. "I shouldn't be feeling like this…"

"But you are Sabine," Ezra stated, his expression shifting to a compassionate smile as he added "And that's alright to feel like that."

Was it really? I'd been telling myself the whole week to be thankful, to be happy! But no matter how hard I tried I could only fake it. Could only lie to myself that I was excited to leave, to move on from the only family I'd ever known. I had to tell myself I was pleased because if I wasn't… then what would I do…?

"They… the crew… they're all I've ever known," I admitted with a sigh, feeling my energy drain after a long week of battling emotions. "You're right, I don't want to leave… but I also don't have any other option…"

Silence passed between us as the breeze shifted, whistling through the alleys that branched around us like an ant's nest. Lost in the midst of my deepest feelings, I finally came to accept my loneliness and shame. I had been feeling this way for the whole week, I had just denied it to be true, forced myself to believe it was a lie. But it wasn't, and the weight of the world seemed to come crashing down on my shoulders once more.

Hot tears leaked from eyes as I turned away in embarrassment.

"Sabine," Ezra started softly.

"No Ezra," I wheezed as I shook my head in dismay. "Don't you see? It's over… there's no-where else to go…"

"But there is!" the boy exclaimed fiercely.

I couldn't hold back a scoff, retorting "Oh yeah, and where would that be?"

"With me!" Ezra replied, his eyes sparking with energy before he suddenly flinched, stepping back cautiously.

"W-What?" I murmured as the boy anxiously ran his hand through his hair. "What do you mean…?"

The boy inhaled sharply, his breath forming in a cloud of mist as he collected his thoughts, a clarity returning to his sharp, ocean gaze.

"I want you to join the Spirits, Sabine."

I froze once more, the oxygen ripped from my lungs as yet another revelation appeared before me. If Ezra didn't stop with these surprises I was bound to have a heart attack!

"I didn't bring you here tonight just for a party," Ezra explained warmly, his tone gentle as he said "I wanted you to have a choice. You can stay, and get adopted tomorrow. Or…" He offered out his hand in a comforting gesture, his crystal eyes shimmering. "You can join me, join the Spirits…"

I gazed down at his hand in shock. It was a simple offering, but what it signified meant so much more.

It meant a new life. A life I thought I could never have. It wouldn't be the same, and, it wouldn't be the one I wanted, but it would still be better than the one I would have after tomorrow. It was a fresh start, a chance to start again! I could be like Skye and Nutmeg and Kara and race across the roof tops and help those less fortunate than me. I could help people… I could make them proud of me…

But… It also meant I could never see Kanan and Hera again… I could never mess around with Zeb or play with Chopper or paint on my walls… I couldn't go back to the Ghost! Back to my home!

Wincing, a cold that had festered in my core sent a chill down my spine.

…Was it ever my home to begin with…?

"It won't be easy," Ezra's voice cut through my grim thoughts. I glanced up at the boy, his expression serious as he admitted, "Life on the streets is hard, and winter is just around the corner. It will be cold, and you might go hungry some nights. But, we try our best…"

I grimaced at the thought of Lothal's freezing nights, remembering Kanan's first warning to me the day we'd met.

"It's not a perfect solution, and, you won't be able to see Kanan or Hera," Ezra said painfully. "But… you deserve the choice, Sabine."

Gratefully, I nodded at the boy. He had seen my turmoil and offered me another route, one that could have risked his own plans in return. But I appreciated it nonetheless.

Before me were two options.

I could go back to the Ghost, leave tomorrow and find a new family on Naboo. Who knows, maybe it would be better than my life here? But this feeling of rejection, this darkness that had festered in my soul for the past week was unshakable. Perhaps after months, years I could get over the loss of my first family, or maybe that just be another lie I told myself?

Or, I could join Ezra, the Phantom. I would become a hooded figure in the night, helping the homeless and also becoming one of Kanan's targets. If I left, I'd never get to see my family again anyway. I could never speak to them for fear of destroying Ezra's secret, and I could never return to the Ghost.

But as I thought back through tonight, I thought of the meals the Spirits had given, the young mother who had thanked me, and Nutmeg who had been thrilled there was food for his brother. The Spirits helped people. They looked out for others. They were here to save the ones who had been forgotten about. The thought that I could in some way help with that filled my heart with warmth, one that chased away all the doubts and guilt I had held over the past week. If I couldn't have the life I'd wanted, then perhaps I could help others find the ones they needed. I could help people, just like Ezra did…

…But I wouldn't be able to do it from Naboo…

So taking Ezra's hand in mine, I shook it firmly and smiled. Ezra's eyes brightened in delight as the first flakes of snow cascaded through the winter sky.

"When do I start?"

---

Super Bomb V

The Light in the Dark

Remember Me

Lost Chapters

O' Family of Ours

There is no Death, There is the Force

To Mend the Bond

Beasts of Legend

Family Ties