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phantomphangphucker · 5 years

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The Substitute Ghost - DannyMay - Day 12 History

Summary: Phantoms the teacher and you will learn, or so help me.

(spiritual successor to my fic The Lessons A Mother Gives)

“So you all want Phantom... a ghost. To give this lesson?”

Pretty well half the class nods or claps excitedly while Valerie looks like she might just crush her pencil. Danny is having a hard time not laughing but at the same time, what if they actually ask him? Like sure he’s better at duplication now but uh, it’s hella risky to have Phantom and Fenton in the same room. Though yeah, he’d honestly prefer a ghost, or half-ghost in his case, teach ghost history than his parents. Heck! They really didn’t know anything about ghost history if he was honest. Meanwhile, Danny had lived a bit of it, and ClockWork was a damn good mentor. So he knew pretty well every major and quite a few minor things, be kind of sad if the ghost king didn’t know ghost history. Danny can’t help but chuckle to himself, at least ghost history was way more eventful and interesting. Even if most aren’t for humans, or even other ghosts, to know.

Danny gets startled out of his head by Mr. Lancer, “What do you think Daniel? How much do your parents know about ghost history?”. Again Danny can’t help but chuckle before responding, “they’re scientists and hunters, not historians. It’s unlikely they know much of anything. If they do know a bunch, they never talk about it”, obviously the class likes this as most of them are grinning, even Valerie seems to nod at that.

And honestly, even if his parents were super knowledgeable on this, he’d really rather they not be the ones to teach others. Because unlike his parents, he wasn’t biased against ghosts. It would be like having a mouse teach the history of cats; an actively cat hating mouse. Danny has had to sit through his mom being a guest teacher before and that was on something she was actually well knowledgable on. He still can’t believe how much she managed to restrain her anti-ghost crap, though if he remembers correctly, she still rubbed that class the wrong way. Heck didn’t Mr. Lancer even voice displeasure with her directly to Danny himself? Yeah, Danny’s pretty sure he did.

So he’s not too surprised by Mr. Lancer's response, even if it means he’s going to have to figure out how to do this, “then I’m inclined to agree with the near entirety of the class. Phantom is a friendly Ghost and many of you have already met him in person”. Danny almost feels bad for Valerie as she slams her head on the desk loudly, earning glares from a good portion of the class. Pretty well everyone knows she doesn’t like ghosts nowadays, which has actually made her way more of a social outcast than even the weirdo trio. Pretty much everyone else at school is majorly pro-Phantom, though Danny thinks he might just be starting to get on little Red’s good side.

Paulina shoots up her hand, “I’ve got an idea! Why don’t we just find some ghost and get it to chase me? Phantom will always save me because why wouldn’t he?”. Even Danny glares at Paulina, because first off she shouldn’t be willing putting herself in danger and secondly, she does that to an annoying degree just to get his attention.

“No, we will not be doing that. I’m the teacher and the adult, I’ll get him”, Danny’s pretty sure he’s not the only one that catches Mr. Lancer mutter, “somehow”. Seeing as it looks like Paulina’s decided she has another idea, “well what about Fenton? Pretty sure hunters have ghost tracking stuff and Phantom shows up around him all the time?”. Danny has to force himself to not glare holes straight through her head, since that would be a bit suspicious, seeing as pretty well the whole class is looking at him questioningly now; with some even nodding thoughtfully. Seriously wishing Paulina had kept her mouth shut as he responds, “trackers aren’t that useful on Phantom unless he lets you track him. My parents get frustrated to no end over his ability to randomly become undetectable”.

He’s not about to give them actual ideas since he’s not sure if teaching a class, especially one that he’s in, is such a good idea. Though apparently, the class is choosing to ignore Mr. Lancer statement to let him get Phantom as Mikey speaks up, “we could just ask him? Just wave him down after one of his fights? It’s not like he’s never around”. Danny definitely glares at Mikey, because no, don’t stick around a fight; that shit’s dangerous. But how often does Danny actually hang around town as Phantom outside of fighting? Outside of patrolling and flying, pretty well never. Guess that does make him a bit of an elusive bastard.

Thankfully Mr. Lancer agrees that idea isn’t the best, “that’s far too dangerous, even Phantom gets hurt in those. And we all know ghosts are much more durable, so no one is to be near a fight just to talk to him”. A few people snicker, including Danny, at how Mr. Lancer glares specifically at Paulina; who, predictably, rolls her eyes.

Danny jolts a bit as Tucker kicks his chair and leans over, whispering, “dude, you should probably just bite the bullet on this one. Before someone actually does one of these dumb ideas. And pretty sure you’re not actually trying to talk them out of this, can’t say I really blame you on that though”. Danny sighs and shrugs at Tucker, he knows he’s probably right. It’s too bad he hasn’t figured out how to duplicate invisibly yet, otherwise, he could just do that and have a Phantom duplicate pretend to be thrown through the class wall. Let it stick around long enough to get asked before zipping off like he has a fight to finish.

And leaving class is out of the question, asking to go to the bathroom and then having Phantom show is just way too suspicious. Maybe he should start a blog or something, as Phantom, so people can actually contact him? Sure he’ll end up with lots of fan crap, even if that is enjoyable; it’s nice to be liked and needed you know. But it would help for situations like this, which are bound to happen again.

Blinking as he gets an idea, sure it’ll bite him in the ass a little but that’s better than someone getting themselves hurt chasing after Phantom, and he thinks it’s believable enough. Heck might even be able to use it as a way to explain Paulina calling him out earlier, “well, you all seem pretty set on this. This all stays a secret from my parents though”. Pretty well the whole class is nodding and Mr. Lancer is giving him a quizzical look while Valerie speaks up, “yeah even I don’t want them barging in or going off about ghosts”. Valerie stares Danny a bit before continuing, “what idea you got Danny. Clearly, you have one”. Danny smirks, knowing full well she’s going to be a bit pissy at him and the rest of the class is going to pester him. Flipping out his phone as he shrugs, “I’ll just call him”.

Everyone predictably gapes at him, while he pretend dials and Tucker tries damn hard to keep his laughter from being audible.

“You have his number!”

“He has a phone?”

“Why would he want a Fenton’s number?!”

Danny can’t help but snicker at the questions as he has a pretend conversation with himself. Coming up with random code words on the spot to make this seem more routine.

“No, no eggs”

“You could say weirder sure. Apparently, you’ve got a teaching job now. Well, for one day anyway”

Danny intentionally laughs, though it’s actually genuine since this is rather absurd.

“No forwarding involved. Just a teach wanting ghost history”

“As if, still a blt”

Danny mouths “when” at Mr. Lancer, who promptly starts checking the schedule and calendar.

Danny rolls his eyes and chuckles a bit, pretending he can hear Phantom eating or something on the other end, before Mr. Lancer responds a little bit frazzled, “tomorrow actually works out best”.

Danny gives a little nod before continuing the fake call,

“Oh yeah they can and do. Whole class”

“Of course”

“Dude, not even a little kid is enough of an idiot to give out your number”, Danny glares at the class hoping they get the message and don’t pester him for Phantoms’, aka his, number.

“Class six-b, a bit after ten”

“Yeah, welcome to schools, everything’s stupid early”

Snickering a bit, mentally pretending Phantom made some comment about drowning himself in the noddles he was eating, “well you get right on that then, later”.

It only takes a couple seconds after putting his phone away for some to ask, “why do you, of all people, have Phantoms’ number?”. While someone else mutters, “guess it would make sense he’d have a phone though”.

Danny rolls his eyes and crosses his arms, “non-ghost hating Fenton here. Living with people who constantly make new anti-ghost stuff and whom frequently converse with those GIW morons”. Danny can’t help but chuckle as it’s clear he needs to make this more obvious, “dudes gotta have a way to know what all the anti-ghost stuff is and does. You’re looking at it”.

Danny can tell Valerie’s not impressed as she gapes at him, “so you’re helping him and basically spying on your own family. For a ghost”. Danny rolls his eyes but can’t help but snicker, in a way he is actually spying, “he's the good guy Val. The GIW are idiots and my parents are beyond biased. They wanted me involved in the family business, they got it. Just not the way they’d planned”.

Mr. Lancer shakes his head a bit even if it’s clear he’s smiling, “well I think it goes without saying, that this conversation stays in the classroom. I’ll request that no one brings recording devices tomorrow or tries taking photos. You’re here to learn, it’s not a meet n’ greet”. While Danny’s thankful and hopes they’ll actually listen, the rest of the class groans.

Danny doesn’t even get a chance to walk out the class door before Valerie springs on him, “seriously Danny? I’d have thought you of all people would know ghost everything is dangerous. And helping a ghost? Really?”. Danny makes a point of holding himself proudly, “just walking into Fenton Works is dangerous. There’s no getting away from ghosts for a Fenton. Again, Phantom’s good. Most folks help him, I’m just a bit more helpful”.

Danny’s not sure if it’s his stance or words but Valerie just sighs and shakes her head before walking away. Though she does look over her shoulder and the pair share a slightly hurt wistful look.

Tucker slaps him on the back as they sit to eat, “dude, eggs? Forwarding? Blt? Congrats on being confusing”, Danny can’t help but snicker. Finger-gunning as he responds, “emergency ghosts or gear. Aka ghost fight or new Fenton tech. When people forward emails there’s that little “FW” symbol, like Fenton Works. And blind living town, as in no one knows about some secret or another”. Tucker looks genuinely impressed, “those, those are actually useful. Damn”. While Sam just looks utterly confused, “ok what happened now?”. Tucker slaps Danny on the back again, “Phantom’s a teacher now and-”. Tucker gets cut off by Kwan, “Fenton, dude! Phantom’s spy? That’s got to be cool! Bet you have, like, codes and shit?!”. Danny rolls his eyes while Sam tries to not look shocked, “you know the point of “spy” is to be a secret?”.

Kwan actually has the decency to look guilty and just scurries off, while Sam mouths “what?” at Danny. Leaning towards her, “Lancer wanted someone to teach ghost history and everyone was determined it’d be Phantom. The running story is, Fenton has Phantoms’ number and is keeping tabs on the Fenton’s and their gear for him”. Sam nods readily accepting this while Tucker smirks a bit. Because really, the two of them are Phantoms real little spies.

Danny, as Phantom, phases through Mr. Lancers’ ceiling, “so ghost history?”. Danny can’t help but laugh as Mr. Lancer jumps; Danny’s got to get his mischievous side out somehow. Besides this kind of crap is what ghosts do. Mr. Lancer clearly agrees as he doesn’t even give Danny shit, “yes, I imagine you know it better than any human? Though I hope it’s not too much trouble”. Danny waves him off as he comes to stand in his teachers living room, which is a bit surreal, “you’re not wrong. Heck! I’ve been at the forefront of some of it. And yeah pretty well everything any human knows is either only half the story or wildly biased”. Mr. Lancer nods with a frown, “I suspected as much”, he sips his tea before continuing, “since this is for only one class, because I don’t doubt we’ll draw negative attention if we do this for multiple days. Stick to the bigger things. Leaders, any major battles or wars, important ghosts and why they are or were important, major traditions and how they came to be, and so on”. Danny knows full well he’s going to have to omit some things, like who the current ghost king is. Though really, it’s almost sad that it isn’t obvious. He’s literally flying around with a crown and cape, that shit is pretty damn noticeable. But until someone asks or flat out calls him out, he’s not saying shit. Nodding at Mr. Lancer, “and obviously people are going to asks me stuff. But somethings with ghosts, in general, are need to know only, so there's some info I’m just not going to give”.

“I’d expect as much. Humans and ghosts don’t exactly get along. Yet anyway”

“Yeah, though I’d like for that to change. Someday maybe. Stuff like this might be a good step”, Danny’s almost sad that didn’t hit him before. People fear what they don’t know and ghosts are a pretty big unknown. Humans might be able to relate more knowing ghosts actually have their own history. He’s sure some folks just think ghosts don’t do anything other than toy with humans.

Mr. Lancer nods with a bit of a smile, “my thoughts exactly. Though I doubt you’re exactly experienced with teaching or are a historian”. Danny laughs and shakes his head, “course not! But I know a thing or two. There’s a lot of aspects to what I do. Not just here but in the Zone as well”. Mr. Lancer only gets to nod as Danny’s ghost sense goes off, “well duty calls, toddles”. Danny hardly heard Mr. Lancers “have a safe night” as he waves and flies through the wall.

Danny Phantom high-fives Danny Fenton, it was a pretty easy choice to make the clone play the role of Phantom. Since Phantom just up and disappearing suddenly isn’t exactly all that weird.

Fenton patting himself down as he leaves the bathroom, while Phantom flies and sits invisibly in the classroom.

Sitting down, Fenton’s sure he’s the only one who knows Phantom’s here. Well, until Valerie comes in, glares at her sensor before glaring at the front left corner of the room.

Mr. Lancer raises his eyebrow questioningly at Danny Fenton, so Phantom takes that as his cue to pop into visibility. Scaring the crap out of half the class and Mr. Lancer, even Valerie snickers at that; while Fenton, Phantom and Tucker smirk. Danny seriously hopes that the attention stays squarely on Phantom him as Phantom starts talking, “so obviously I’m not actually a teacher. And I’m a fly by the cuff kind of guy so don’t expect this to be structured”. Phantom, shrugging at Mr. Lancers raised eyebrow, “what? I’m not a planner”, before turning to the class and deciding to just start this before he gets bombarded with questions, “I’d figured I’d start with Pariah Dark, since you’ve all actually met him in a sense. That and he’s old”. Most of the class looks confused already, so clearly, Danny’s doing a great job here. Phantom, chuckling, “Pariah’s the guy who transported Amity into the Zone for a while. He’s one of the oldest ghosts around and once held the title of ghost king. Though he was a tyrant, ruled through power, fear and destruction of other ghosts lairs. Originally defeated by a group of, now unknown, ancient ghosts”. Danny really hopes Paulina has an actual question not a confession of love, as Phantom calls on her, “but didn’t you defeat Mr. Floaty face alone?”.

“I had a strength-enhancing suit but otherwise yes. Hopefully this time he’ll stay sealed away”, Phantom elects to move one before they ask if there’s a new king, “we do have other rulers though, some areas of the zone are kingdoms or nations. Those places all have a ruler or leader of some kind. Most have ruled their entire existence, like Pandora and Frostbite. Queen of Mythos and Leader of the FarFrozen. So there’s really no stories there. Ghosts don’t have elections or change leaders the way humans do”.

Phantom smirks as he crosses his legs, floating in the air, it’s really no surprise to him that his classmates are actually paying attention. “Queen Dora is an exception. She actually overthrew her brother, after he tried to forcefully wed a human and that human-made her see that she didn’t have to tolerate her brother’s abuse anymore. Aragon, her brother, was and still is a basket case. He trapped his whole kingdom in the dark ages and pretty much hated technology and happiness. Dora undid that though, so the kingdom of dragons is much happier now”.

Fenton can’t help but laugh a bit, only managing to school Phantoms’ expression as he overhears someone mutter, “wow, what a dick”. Phantom, tapping his chin, decides he doesn’t really care if the Observants don’t like it. He’s gonna talk about them, possibly just to bug them, “we also have another more universal governing body, kind of like checks and balances. The Observants, they watch pretty well everything every ghost does or is going to do. Acting as judge and jury, but never actually interfering. They just make others do their dirty work”.

Mr. Lancer shakes his head, “so like our government then”. Phantom nods as he points at Kwan’s raised hand, “well why didn’t they do something about that ghost king guy? Or get someone else to do something?”.

“Because they knew I would, that and Pariah wasn’t a zone or earth destroying issue. The Observants only meddle in the most extreme things. Pariah instilled fear not destruction, on ghosts. So he likely wasn’t much of a concern to them”, honestly Danny feels they really should have done something. That guy was pretty well fucking with everything, but Danny did defeat him so he can’t complain too much. Plus, if he were to ask ClockWork, he’d probably say Danny needed to become the ghost king and that had been the only way; or the least unpleasant way.

“Do you work for these guys?”, Danny can feel the mistrust and accusation in Valerie’s voice. “No, I’ve never done any work for them and I don’t work under them. Only one ghost actually works for them, but they can and will ask pretty well any ghost to do a job. I wouldn’t be too surprised if they eventually ask something of me”.

Phantom floats to the floor laughing a bit as ClockWork pops up, waving his hand at the time ghost, “yeah yeah I get it. I’ll shut the hell up. And you know I wouldn’t tell them about you, or Dan”. ClockWork still bops him on the head with his staff for good measure, “Oh I know, and yes the Observants are thoroughly bothered”. Both of them smirk as ClockWork takes his leave, Danny’s going to just assume he was about to say something stupid to the class. No clue what but that’s expected really. That or someone was about to ask something stupid, and Phantom suddenly changing positions instantly would catch them off guard enough to not ask.

Phantom turns his head back to the class, who all look a bit confused. Phantom just smirks more, “there was a visitor, nothing to worry about though. Friendly fellow”

“Can ghosts sense each other!?”, Danny’s honestly surprised it took this long for someone to ask more general ghost shit. Though Mr. Lancer glares at Mikey a bit, sighs and turns to Phantom, “you don’t have to answer that. This isn’t a q and a”. While Mr. Lancer’s right, Danny can’t really blame them. Heck, he’d probably get bombarded with questions if he actually stuck around after fights. Well, that and get shot at. Though he knows that if he really indulges the question he’ll be inviting more of them, “you’re teacher’s right, but that ability is unique to me. Anyway, that’s pretty well it for ruling ghosts. Most ghosts are loners rather than living in an established group. But we do have an overarching society. Mostly just norms everyone follows, like not destroying others lairs or making your name known to a worthy opponent. And there’s really only one real holiday, rather than the many humans observe”.

Danny can tell Valerie is suspicious of something, not sure what but still. So he calls on Dash’s raised hand before she can say something, “that must be one big holiday and party then”. And Danny catches one of the geeks' mutter, “bet is Halloween or something like it”.

Chucking Phantom addresses the Geek, who clearly didn’t expect his comment to be heard. more so than Dash, “while I have a soft spot for Halloween, it’s actually Christmas. Known as the Christmas Truce, like with humans Christmas used to be called Yule and was started by some of the first ghosts. As a way to instil unity and decrease the, at the time, near constant fighting. No fighting is allowed and ghosts all get together with friend and foe alike, for food, drink and merriment. Skulker’s renowned for his unusually good lemon Creme pie”. Danny catches a few people muttering, surprised, about how ghosts actually eat food. Danny apparently didn’t do a good enough job at distracting Valerie as she points accusingly at Phantom, while Fenton groans and mouths “here we go” at Tucker. Both Fenton and Tucker turn and mildly glad at Valerie, as she talks or more so snaps, “ignoring the idea of ghosts being “merry” and cooking in their spare time. With ghost rulers, I’m pretty sure you glanced over yourself, unless that crown is just for kicks”. Danny can tell she’s feeling smug as a couple people look at him and nod. Though Mr. Lancer looks like he wants to interject again, as Mr. Lancer remembers that Phantom warmed somethings would be off limits, so Phantom shakes his head at him.

Danny’s not about to give Valerie the satisfaction, and there’s really no good reason to not respond. People are going to keep asking, eventually, “I was wondering how long it would take for someone to call me on that. I intentionally left myself out purely to see how long it would take. I enjoy a bit of harmless mischief you know”. Smirking at Valerie’s annoyed grimace before actually answering her question, “and really the answer is why I even know all this stuff. Ghosts generally don’t know much of our history, we don’t get taught it after all. Most only know what they’ve actually been around for. Though any ghost who wants to know the publicly available bits of ghost history could do so easily, most simply see no need to”. Now Valerie’s just plain annoyed with Phantom and Tucker is trying hard not to laugh while giving Fenton discrete thumbs up. Both Danny’s smirk at Tuckers’ clear approval of dragging this out just to bug Valerie.

Phantom, shrugging exaggeratedly at the class, “I’ve been taught it because, after all, it would be pretty sad if the Ghost King didn’t know his subjects and worlds history”. Mr. Lancer’s the first to audibly react, choking on his tea a bit and staring at Phantom incredulously. Danny’s classmates are quicker to accept this as true and Valerie looks flat out pissed off. Half the class nearly shouting at him, “what!”. While Tucker and Fenton both put their heads on their respective desks in an attempt to muffle their laughter. Danny’s trying to get all his laughter out through Fenton, since he doesn’t want Phantom to look mocking. Though he can’t keep Phantom from snickering and laughing a bit as well, “that was my original reaction!”. Composing himself a bit and giving a lazy smile, that he hopes is reassuring or comforting, “but yes, I pretty much usurped Pariah from power and thus took his place as Ghost King. Even if I didn’t even know that was possible at the time”. Phantom gives Valerie the best subtle, I’m-not-a-power-hungry-asshole look he can; without making the rest of the class suspicious.

Mr. Lancer is clearly a bit frazzled, as he adjusts his tie, “that is a bit startling Mr. Phantom. But I guess you really were the best choice for this then”. Meanwhile, Star whispers at Fenton, “oh my god, you knew”. Fenton only nods while wheezing and Phantom forces himself to not comment on that.

Instead addressing the whole class, “indeed, really if you need any ghostly info I’ve probably got it. Doesn’t mean I’ll actually tell you though. And if I’m refusing to give you certain information then it’s not something you should, or want to, know”.

“You're a ghost. No reason to trust you on that”, most of the class, including Fenton, rolls their eyes at Valerie. While Danny decides to have Phantom pretty much do his job and mediate between the species, “true, I am a ghost, but that matters not. You’re coming from a place of opinion not reason. But that’s expected. Listening to what I have to say, whether you agree with it or not, is well enough. Somethings I know should not be known by others, not because it could harm ghosts, but because it could damage the timestream, reality itself, or drastically increase the chances of mass destruction”. Danny’s not sure what to make of Valerie’s facial expression, like a mixture of shock, confusion and complete annoyance.

Knowing full well he’d rather not have another incident like when the GIW tried to destroy the zone, “Further, anything that seriously damages the Ghost Zone will have the same effect on earth. Our worlds exist in duality, due to that only certain ghosts known everything. Ghosts that get along with humanity or at least don’t wish to harm humanity. In a sense part of my job is this, keeping the peace and making sure nothing serious happens to either world”.

Giving Valerie a soft smile, “I may be the Ghost King but I am also earths protector. From uniformed human actions, to truly evil ghosts, and outside forces”.

This seems to pull the rest of the class into normalcy a bit though,

“Who’s the most powerful ghost?”

“Do you have servants?”

“Castle?”

“Can you make people knights?”

“Do you rule over Amity too?”

Mr. Lancer actually stands up at this and puts his hands up, “enough, enough. None of that has to do with history”. Phantom shrugs a bit, “well technically anything to do with me is history, or will be. My very existence was even prophesied and I’m worshiped as a god by some, I’m pretty well the only ghost worshiped by other ghosts. But I’m not here to talk about myself. So any history questions that aren’t specifically about me”. Danny does overhear a couple people muttering, “he’s a god?”, and, “just how many titles does this guy hold?”. But he doesn’t want to feed that train of thought, otherwise, this is going to take way too long. Specially if he was fully honest, which he can’t be.

“Has there been any other ghosts like the Pariah Guy? That had to be removed or sealed or whatever?”

“Are there things besides ghosts that are important? Like how the Statue of Liberty is?”

Danny’s not really surprised it’s the geeks with the questions, as Phantom responds, “yes there have been, three of which I’ve dealt with myself. Vortex, the one responsible for the really strange weather for that short while, UnderGrowth, the one responsible for all that vine and plant stuff everywhere, and the last one isn’t to be talked about”. Phantom frowns to emphasise his point before continuing, “other than that, Betrex is the only other. Betrex enslaved a large portion of humanity back in the human dark ages. Both Betrex and Vortex were dealt with originally by the Observants. And there are lots of different artifacts that are important, but most are supposed to be kept a secret so that no one uses them. But there are some I can talk about, for one Pandora’s Box is very much real. It’s used to siphon out evil energy from the zone”. Mr. Lancer looks thoroughly pleased with this which makes Phantom smirk.

“That’s the only one you’ve likely heard of though. But you have seen another one, the red crystal ball staff that circus gothica guy had. Staff Of Minds, it’s called, it can mind control ghosts. Make slaves really, it’s destroyed now”. Phantom shakes his head and chuckles, “really Freakshow has a bad habit of getting his hands on powerful ghost artifacts. He also had the Reality Gauntlet, which is what Thanos’s Infinity Gauntlet is based off of”.

The geeks in the back row look like they’re having a field day so Danny decides to be a bit of an ass, “which has also been destroyed”. Yup, the freaking out geeks look decently crushed, “but it was one of the more important artifacts. Since it created the Ghost Zone, the Reality Gauntlet can completely control all of reality. So it’s vastly more powerful than its comic book counterpart”.

Valerie is pretty much the only student that doesn’t look impressed, instead she just looks horrified, so Danny decides to make a bit of a point, Phantom looking at her while running a hand through his hair, “technically I didn’t have to destroy it but I decided it wasn’t worth the risk of someone stealing it from me. It was enough of a pain getting it away from FreakShow as it was”.

Tucker decides that’s the time to speak up, pointing at Phantom, “it did look good on you though”. Both Fenton and Phantom nod, completely agreeing. Honestly, sometimes he wishes he kept it. Sure he’d never use it for anything more than fun and to fix major fuck ups. But it really was better destroyed.

“Everything looks good on you”, Paulina barely bothers to whisper and Danny has to stop both of himselves from groaning. Valerie, however, flat out groans; though she’s eyeing Phantom a bit confused.

“The only other major items I can really talk about is the Ring of Rage and the Crown of Fire. Both of which Pariah used to strengthen himself. You need both to use either. Basically, the wearer has accesses to infinite power, but it’ll destroy the wearer if they’re not strong enough to handle the base power of the items”, Valerie looks drastically more horrified and Danny can’t blame her, she was literally wearing the ring. Phantom points at Dash, “dude, then how the heck did you even defeat him? How do you defeat infinite power?”.

Phantom smirks, “he could only access the amount his own power and body could handle. Just because you have access to infinite power, doesn’t mean you can actually use all of it. The suit I had, amplified my strength a hundredfold, which was only barely enough”.

“So this suit is stronger than the crown and ring?”

Phantom screws his face up a bit, “no, not even kind of. That suit nearly destroyed me, and it would have killed any human who used it. I destroyed that as well. The suit was a hundredfold but the crown and ring is easily, for me, over five thousand fold”. This time Danny catches Valerie actually look for the ring on him, which he is of course wearing.

Glaring at him, “you’re wearing them”. Even Mr. Lancer looks at him worried due to Valerie’s remark. Phantom smirks, “of course, they’re also known as the kings crown and rulers ring for a reason. Technically, they’re a requirement. A painful one, but still”. And this is why Danny’s glad he’s got an absurd pain tolerance. Though it clearly startles his family sometimes.

Mr. Lancer clearly wants to change the subject at this point and it’s also clear he’s cringing a bit, “well, we’re running short on time so any other important events or people?”.

“Basically all the important ghosts I can talk about are rulers so that’s a no. As for events, the blood blossom purge was a big one and the Bermuda Triangle caused a war for a good ten wars. Basically, anything that disappears there, shows up in the Ghost Zone. And it causes an issue every time. Ghosts fight over what to do, and if anyone owns the random things”.

Frowning a bit, “the Blood Blossom purge was more serious. It’s a plant that was intentionally driven to mass extinction. From pictures, it looked a lot like book burning but with plants. Still to this day, it’s basically a requirement that if anyone finds one of those flowers they have to destroy it. Not doing so is pretty much the harshest rule you could break”. Valerie smirks a bit, “those plants must be pretty harmful to you guys then”.

Phantom glares at her a bit, “in a sense. And while ghosts really don’t care about, mind or will even encourage ghost hunting gear. Anything Blood Blossom related isn’t tolerated. If, say, a human, whether hunter or not, had Blood Blossoms and was making it difficult or impossible for ghosts to destroy it. The Observants would get involved and would have no problem erasing that human from existence. Either by flat out killing them, making it so they were never born in the first place, or destroying the entire town. There’s a reason no one likes the Observants, they do not care about anyone’s existence. They see only the bigger picture, if they decide obliterating half the zone or killing off hundreds of humans is what’s best, they’ll see it gets done; unless someone makes doing that impossible”. Danny’s sure he went a little too hard there but, based on Valerie’s face, his point was made.

Tucker whispers to Fenton, “a little overboard dude”. Turning around to him a bit, “you should have heard CW’s speech. The big O’s are more than just serious about this”. Tucker and Fenton share a grimace.

Aiming to soften and lighten the mood a bit, “I’ve already had to get in their way once, so they don’t exactly like me and I don’t care for them. Even if they are needed and do their jobs exceptionally well, they just have wonky priorities”. Snickering a bit, “pretty much every ghost who knows about them intentionally bugs them. Annoying them is the original reason I even mentioned them, and they can’t do anything about. Even if there is around five thousand of them”.

Mr. Lancer shakes his head a little startled, having not expected ghosts to be quite so powerful, “I can’t say I like these guys either, Mr. Phantom”, turning to the class, “does anyone have any final questions. Questions that are actually relevant please”.

“Do you guys celebrate the creation of the Ghost Zone? And what about birthdays?”

Phantom can’t help but chuckle, “deathdays actually and yes we celebrate them. It’s up to the individual ghost how though, and before you ask, don’t ask a ghost when they’re deathday is. It’s insanely rude, and no I won’t, or more specifically can’t, tell you mine. Very few actually know when the Ghost Zone was created for sure, so no we don’t celebrate it”. Danny can tell the class is torn between finding “deathday” funny or unpleasant. Though Danny’s just impressed that Valerie actually puts her hand up this time.

“What about the existence of hal-”, Danny knows where this is going and Phantom promptly cuts her off with an ecto-gag. Because it’s way better to be a bit suspicious than having her blab about that while his human form is within easy comparison sight.

Glaring at her, “you’re being quite the trouble maker. That’s pretty well one of the number one things that are not to be talked about. So keep that to yourself unless you want to get people killed”. Thankfully, Valerie only glares as the gag dissolved while Tucker covers up his gaping mouth with his hand.

A couple people mutter, wondering what it is Valerie knows but promptly shut up at Phantoms mild glaring. “I’m not going to withhold information or keep something secret without a good reason. So don’t go questioning her about this”. Pretty well everyone nods as the bell goes off, but Mr. Lancer motions for Phantom to stick around. Which leaves Danny even more glad he’s gotten good at this.

Phantom floats, legs crossed, in the air as Mr. Lancer sits back down, “I’ll admit, I learned more than even I expected here. I don’t think I grasped just how powerful of a ghost you really are”. Phantom smirks, “yeah my small size and general light-hearted demeanour can be a bit misleading. I don’t act remotely as strong as I am and I have no interest in doing so. I only exercise major power or my position when it’s really needed”.

“You’re a very surprising fellow, Phantom. For seeming so young, you’re clearly wise. I’m glad the position of king fell on someone like you and thank you for coming in”, Mr. Lancer reads Phantoms slightly amused face before asking the question that Phantom knows he wants to, “feel up to doing this again sometime? Obviously not on a specific schedule, too risky for you”.

Phantom smiles lightly and nods, “I’ve had lots of experience with lots of things. And experience begets wisdom so to speak. But sure, I’d be up for it. Though dealing with any ghost issues comes first so don’t be surprised if I occasionally cancel or suddenly leave”.

“But of course, I wouldn’t expect anything different”, with that the two wave as Phantom phases through the ceiling.

Meanwhile, Fenton promptly gets corned by Valerie just outside of class. “question, do you know what I was talking about in there? Before I was rudely cut off by your “friend””, Danny can tell she’s unimpressed and still very much not fond of Phantom. “If what you’re thinking of involves a little girl, then yes. If the wrong people hear or find out about that the gov will destroy her. So seriously don’t”, obviously Valerie takes Fenton more seriously and nods curtly.

“All right Danny. I’ve got no problem believing you and that does make sense. Still don’t like that you’re helping a ghost. But it’s your life I guess”. Chuckling, “you don’t know the half of it”.

End.

#danny phantom #phandom #dannymay19 #dannymay #history #mr. lancer #danny fenton #valerie #paulina #tucker foley #ghost hisotry #ghost king danny #clockwork #phantomphangphucker #have a fic suck my dick

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blightfics · 5 years

Text

THE THIRD WHEEL CHAPTER 2: Her Voice

Previous Chapter: Color

Next Chapter: More Coming Soon!

Disclaimer: This story is based from a lot of animes, such as Your Lie in April and Waiting in the Summer.

Author’s Note: If the “Keep reading” doesn’t work, go here for the full post. Since my brother’s drawing monitor is being borrowed by his friend, there won’t be any chapter artworks until some time around March. Italicized narration is told by one of the protagonists, Kyle Collins. And lastly, to pay respects to non-American sports fans, I’m going to call it “football”, not “soccer”.

Tags: @princessstellaris, @mechaspirit, @xo-endlessmayhem-xo, @i-miss-trr, @aquamarvel, @mysteli, @choicesyouplayandmore, @skyila, @brightpinkpeppercorn, @sceptilemasterr, @scgdoeswhat, @endlessly-searching-for-you

Recommended Music: Can You Forget? (YLIA)

On the Spring of 2018, something colorful came into my monotone life...

Vivian: I’m Vivian. And I am in love with your artworks!

How did it come to this...?

Lunch period, March 5, 2018; Kyle is seated by a cafeteria table. Sitting opposite him is Vivian, the redhead girl who suddenly came up to him and confessed her affection towards his artworks. The redhead girl joyfully wolfs down her lunch meal while the boy still hasn’t partaken on his meal. He is still left dumbfounded by his encounter with Vivian.

Our encounter occurred just a few meters from the art club room. Mr. Ross steps outside the room and spots me and the girl. He invited her in and she was introduced herself to us. Her name was Vivian Richards and she’s a transfer student, currently pursuing arts, specifically musical arts. I can tell right away why she was so enthralled by visual arts as well. Everyone likes my work but I’ve never met someone as joyful as her and instantly claiming that she loves my work. I was still frozen from the encounter as Mr. Ross and Vivian chatted about my artworks until the lunch bell rang. And now, we’re in this situation.

Kyle shakes his head and starts eating his lunch, while Vivian finishes hers and wipes her lips. She then smiles at the boy.

Vivian: So, what’s your next artwork going to be?

People kept asking me that question and I always say that I don’t have anything planned at the moment. But knowing this girl’s enthusiasm, she’ll just keep bugging me about it and I just can’t snap at her. So, for the first time, I gave up to that very question.

Kyle: Well... I am working a Spring-themed artwork of a couple...

Vivian squeals in silence. She tries to scream as happily but as quietly as possible.

Vivian: Aaahh! I can’t wait!

Kyle just smiles shyly.

Recommended Music: Violence Over (YLiA)

Soon after, Karen and Sam approach the table. They did not notice Vivian yet as they are used to Kyle being alone at the cafeteria.

Karen: Hey, Kyle. What’s going o--

Karen freezes at the sight of the redhead girl. Sam walks up beside her and looks at her curiously.

Sam: What’s wrong, Ka--

Sam glances at Vivian and freezes as well. Kyle sighs.

Kyle: Guys, this is my new friend, Vivian.

Vivian waves at the two with a bright smile.

Vivian: Nice to meet you two.

Sam quickly sets down his meal on the table and drops to his knees. He raises his hands upwards and screams at the ceiling.

Sam: THERE IS A GOD!!

Kyle does a facepalm and Vivian just laughs shyly. Karen quickly sets down her meal and walks up to Kyle, grabbing her brother’s collar.

Karen: TELL. ME. EVERYTHING!!

Kyle: Alright! Chill!

Of course, they’d be curious and excited to know about my encounter with Vivian. They’ve been waiting for this very moment.

The couple sits with the two newly-acquainted friends and Kyle tells the entire story of his encounter with the redhead girl and what happened between them until lunch period. Karen and Sam let out a bright smile while Kyle gives them an annoyed look.

Karen: Well, look at that. My twin brother has his very own Number 1 Fan.

Kyle: Oh, shut it.

Karen and Sam offer their hands to Vivian.

Karen: I’m Kyle’s twin sister, Karen.

Vivian: I’ve known about you because of your book, Endless Summer. But still, nice to meet you!

Karen smiles at the compliment.

Sam: And I’m Sam, the twins’ childhood friend and Karen’s boyfriend. Also...

Vivian: Captain of the Skylia Dragons Football Team, I know.

Sam looks at Kyle with surprise

Sam: Damn, Kyle. You have one helluva friend here!

Kyle: Stop.

Karen suddenly remembers what happened in the Story & Film Club.

Karen: Oh! I almost forgot.

She pulls out the poster that Elizabeth showed and gave to her.

Karen: Would you guys like to participate in this?

The group lay their eyes on the Film Festival poster.

Karen: The club is planning on adapting Endless Summer into a film.

Sam winks at Karen.

Sam: I’ll join... only if you’ll be Emily and I’ll be your Jake McKenzie.

Karen blushes and laughs.

Karen: Oh, stop it, you. You know you have to go through auditions first.

Kyle chuckles.

Kyle: I don’t know, but the way he said it sounds like something Jake would say when he’s planning on joining a play with Emily.

Karen squints at Kyle.

Karen: Fine. Why don’t you join the casting auditions too?

Kyle: What?! NO!!

Karen shakes her head.

Karen: Nope, you can’t say “No”. You have drawn an artwork of my story and have read it. That means you have been involved in this film from the start.

Kyle: Ugh... fine...

Karen nods and turns to Vivian. Before the brunette could even say anything, the redhead quickly nods at her.

Vivian: No need to ask. I’m in!

Karen: Perfect! Auditions start later at 4:30 pm at the auditorium. Mr. Cameron has already informed the principal and has posted the announcement on the bulletin board.

Sam then jumps in to change the subject. He tells more about himself, Karen and Kyle to Vivian while they finish their lunch meals. Soon after, they finish lunch period and go on about their usual school business.

Recommended Music: Lower School at Dusk (YLiA)

The clock strikes at 4:30 pm and Kyle is making his way to the auditorium.

I wasn’t really sure if I wanted to participate in the Film Festival. My mind is still messed up. What is wrong with me? I’ve never felt like this since I met Vivian. My heart’s beating fast and I don’t know why. But I should know why. I’ve witnessed this kind of feeling before but I just don’t know what it is.

Kyle enters the auditorium and from the stage, Karen spots him. She waves at her twin brother.

Karen: Kyle, over here!

Her company turns to the brunet boy and waves at him. This company includes Sam, Vivian, Elizabeth, Mark and Danny. Kyle walks up to the stage. Sam takes the time to introduce Danny to the group.

Sam: Oh, by the way, everyone. This is Danny, our new goalkeeper and Mark’s successor.

Danny is startled by the word, “successor”.

Danny: Well... I don’t know about being his successor yet...

Mark pats his junior’s back.

Mark: Don’t be unsure about it, Danny. I can already see it in you.

Danny smiles as he meets everyone else and shake their hands. Karen does the same introductions to Vivian. As everyone finishes meeting each other, Kyle asks about the auditions.

Kyle: So, what’s gonna happen first?

Karen: Well, for now, we’ll start the auditions for our favorite redhead heroine, Quinn Kelly.

Karen signals Mr. Cameron, from the seats, to begin. The literature teacher claps his hands.

Mr. Cameron: Alright, take your seats, people! Auditions are about to start! First up, auditions for Quinn Kelly.

After ten minutes of other students auditioning, Elizabeth comes up on stage, holding a script with Quinn’s lines. The black-haired girl attempts to portray the redheaded beauty in the story but was unable to because she was nervous, rather than spontaneous, on stage. Karen notices this and turns to Vivian.

Karen: Hey, Vi. Will you give Eli your script with Grace’s lines?

Vivian: Oh, of course.

Vivian runs up to Elizabeth and tells her of the situation. Elizabeth agrees and reads Grace’s lines. She nods and tries again. This time, thanks to her shy personality, she was able to portray the smart girl perfectly. Karen claps and gives her fellow club member a thumbs up. The others follow on the clapping and the audition continues.

Recommended Music: You Exist in Spring (YLiA)

Karen again turns to Vivian.

Karen: Vivian, why don’t you try out for Quinn?

Vivian smiles shyly.

Vivian: No, I don’t think I can do her well.

Karen: Please?

Karen shows puppy eyes towards the redhead and the latter eventually groans and chuckles as she stands up. She gets onstage and reads Quinn’s lines. She channels the enthusiasm she had when she met Kyle and used it on her audition. Everyone was astounded by her performance, even Kyle. Soon, the entire auditorium did a standing ovation towards Vivian. They knew that she would be the perfect person to play as Quinn. The redhead girl’s green eyes light up as she skips merrily back to her seat. Kyle is left staring at Vivian throughout the entire audition.

She was... amazing. For a girl who is pursuing musical arts, who knew she could be talented in acting too. Or is it because of her enthusiasm earlier? That could’ve been it. It matches well with Quinn’s spontaneous personality that covers her sadness over her illness. I want to know more, about what makes her tick, and why, no matter how hard I close my eyes, her bright light pierces through my eyelids. I want to audition for Casey.

As the audition continues, many other flawless performances were made; Karen portrayed Emily, Sam portrayed Jake, Danny portrayed Diego, Mark portrayed Sean, and Ariya, captain of the Skylia Girl’s Volleyball team, portrayed Estela. However there was one character that no one seems to get right, Casey, the male protagonist. Mr. Cameron and Karen end up massaging their heads from stress. Meanwhile after Kyle reads the audition script, he stands up and turns to his sister and the teacher.

Kyle: Hey, umm... can I have a go?

Karen and Mr. Cameron look at Kyle with surprise.

Karen: Oh, sure!

Mr. Cameron: Go ahead, Kyle.

Kyle runs up to the stage and goes through the script again before doing the audition.

Yeah. I know clearly well how Casey felt in this scene. The feeling of losing someone very close to your heart. I’ve read and loved his character arc, even before Endless Summer started to catch fire. He lost his friends and sacrificed his entire life to become the Endless in the first timeline, against his own twin sister’s objections. I regret turning down Karen’s offer of letting me join here earlier. No one seems to able to play Casey... that’s why I have to do it. Only I can understand and portray him.

Mr. Cameron signals him.

Mr. Cameron: Alright, audition for Casey from Endless Summer. Scene, the mourning of Quinn’s supposed death in Elyy’stel. Aaand..... ACTION!

Kyle quickly kneels down and starts to remember the incident that caused his parents’ death six months ago. Real tears start to fall from his eyes as he pretends that Quinn is either one of his dying parents. He is able to portray Casey so flawlessly that everyone thought that he was also a great actor.

Recommended Music: My Lie (YLiA)

But only a few people know that Kyle wasn’t faking it; Karen, Sam and Mr. Cameron, because they know of his past. Vivian also manages to know that Kyle wasn’t faking his expressions. She can see it clearly on his face. Mr. Cameron stands up and approaches Kyle. He places a hand on the boy’s shoulder.

Mr. Cameron: That’s enough, Kyle. You got the part. Go sit with your sister and let out the rest of your emotions.

Kyle nods and hurries to Karen and Sam, who comforted him. Vivian looks at the brunet boy with concern, while Mark, Danny and Elizabeth notice that he was actually crying. Mr. Cameron checks his watch and notices that it is now 7:00 pm. He claps his hands to catch the attention of the students in the auditorium.

Mr. Cameron: Alright, that is it for the main cast auditions. I will post in the bulletin board tomorrow who will play who. Dismissed.

Most of the students leave the auditorium with only a few people still inside. Karen, Sam and Mr. Cameron comfort Kyle while Vivian, Elizabeth, Mark and Danny watch from the side.

Mr. Cameron: Kyle? How are you now, my boy?

Kyle tries to wipe his tears but more kept coming.

Kyle: I’m...

Suddenly, Vivian approaches him and lays his head on her chest while giving him a warm embrace. Everyone else are stunned by this.

Vivian: There, there. It’s okay to for you to be sad about what happened to you in the past. We all lose... something in our lives... but that doesn’t mean that we are truly lost. Everything always works out in the end, Kyle.

Kyle’s tears stop from falling from his eyes as he nods. Soon after, he was wiping his face and does one last sniff.

Kyle: Alright.... I’m okay now...

That was it. For the first time ever, I was able to say “I am okay.” with all of my heart. It was a hundred percent true and I mean every word of it. Karen and Sam smiled at me because they knew that I wasn’t lying this time. Vivian was truly something else.

Mr. Cameron gently ruffles Kyle’s hair before turning to the remaining students.

Mr. Cameron: Alright, everything is fine now. You should all go home. It’s late.

The remaining students nod and they leave the auditorium along with Mr. Cameron. Elizabeth placed a caring and reassuring hand on Kyle’s shoulder before leaving with sadness pasted on her face. Kyle tells Karen and Sam to go on ahead as he has to clean his face up first in the boys’ restroom. The two smile and nod at him and the boy smiled back, genuinely, and ran off.

A few minutes later, Kyle walks past the auditorium and notices that one of its doors are open. He takes a peek and sees that Vivian is standing by the stage, looking at the red curtains.

I allowed myself to stay longer not because I was curious about what Vivian was doing, but because... she was a completely different person at the time. Even from far away, I could hear her sing... I only heard a few lyrics but I can tell, she was singing Taylor Swift’s song, The Best Day. But she wasn’t singing it happily...

I can clearly tell from her voice, she was crying...

--- End of Chapter ---

#the third wheel #blightfics #original story #slice of life story #romance story

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ramblinganthropologist · 5 years

Text

Early morning surprise

Summary: Alistair Shepard forgot again. Luckily, he has a great family to remind him. Happy Birthday. retired Commander Shepard.

Setting: Post ME3. Al is loving his retirement and his kids.

---

Fuck, he did not want to get out of bed that morning.

“Oww…”

Alistair Shepard groaned as he opened his eyes and stared up at the ceiling. What was left of his left thigh ache and it felt like fire below what used to be his right elbow. Normally they acted up in the morning, but this was just insult to injury.

Slowly, he raised himself into a sitting position, back twinging a little from a sore muscle he needed to work out later. Outside his window it was a lovely spring day, or as lovely as the Citadel could make it seem like. After all, they were kind of on a space station – seasons were out of the question.

In the back of his mind, he knew there was a reason he wasn’t up an hour earlier and limping out the door. But it didn’t come to him as he pulled himself out of bed and walked out of his bedroom. It wasn’t a Saturday – those he knew. But it was something…

“What the hell am I forgetting?”

Maybe he was finally getting old. Even though he was in his 40’s, technically he was like… 11. It was hard to count when he had technically died and came back. Most days Alistair liked to joke he was getting ready for middle school now, but that day it ran hollow. He was feeling every day of those years running around in armor and then some.

There was low levels of noise coming from the living room – sounded like people moving. While he no longer carried an Avenger, he still had the senses to know something was up. His artificial leg helped him crouch behind the wall so he could use his better eye to take a peek. At least his old boot camp instructors could die happy he hadn’t forgotten anything.

That is if they weren’t dead. 2185 wasn’t a great year for anyone.

“Does this look ok, Dad?”

“I think so.”

Garrus and their daughter Dania – his Danny girl – were hanging something up on the wall. On the other side of the room, their son Marc was in the process of scrutinizing a balloon someone much taller than he was had tacked to the wall. It was a violent shade of blue, so that put Danny in the running.

The boy must’ve felt his footsteps, because he turned. One gray eye and an electronic blue one turned to face him. Then both widened and he waved to get his family’s attention. His hands were soon moving in what had to be their sign – the jig was up, red dad was awake.

Red dad was very much awake and wondering what was going on.

“Go back in your room, Pops. We’re not done yet!” Danny nudged Marc towards him. Her hands moved as she spoke. “Keep an eye on him, big guy. The metal one. You know he’s sneaky.”

With his human escort, Alistair had no choice but to walk back to the room he shared with his husband, son on his heels. Marc even closed the door once he entered, signifying how seriously the young man was taking his duties. He was a Vakarian alright – duty and precision.

Hopefully in 15 years he wouldn’t pick a name as ridiculous as Archangel when he became a vigilante of justice. Alistair had raised him better than that.

“Guess you’re not going to tell me what’s up then?” Alistair asked as he watched his son for a sign. The boy shook his head, then stuck his hands in his pockets. “Well, then. That settles that.”

So, he sat back on the bed. Marc took a seat in his desk, short legs swinging with the distance between the chair and the floor. Both his large eyes were pinned squarely on his father, reminding the redhead of a cybernetic owl. He was a very cute cybernetic owl, mind you.

Ok, Alistair may have been a little biased there.

“Can I at least have a hint?” The hands said no, as did the enthusiastic shake of the boy's head that made his neck hurt just looking at it. Ah, to be young and not pieced back together by modern medicine two separate times. “Darn. You're pretty good at this secret keeping thing, son.”

Being kept in the dark was worth it to see Marc smile like that. Alistair had to chuckle as he leaned back to wait for when he was all clear. Since he hadn't been all that awake to begin with when he had lumbered out of bed, his eyes felt heavy. Then they closed.

The next thing he knew, somebody was poking him in the side. It wasn’t a human finger – talon tipped and too bony. Wasn’t Garrus’ either – too small. That left only a few people it could be.

“Danny?”

“Wake up, Pops. We got something to show you.”

He cracked one eye open to check if he was within bumping range of his daughter. She cleared out of the way as he swung out of bed, yawning. He hadn’t meant to fall back asleep, but… well, he wasn’t 29 anymore?

That was his excuse anyway.

Danny chuckled as she watched him. “First human Spectre, huh?”

“You know I did shoot a Reaper in the face once.”

“Way Aunt Bo tells it, even you could’ve hit that one, Pops.”

Ok, yeah, true. But still, ouch. He was definitely going to need to talk to his sister about old war stories the next time he saw her. She could at least leave out his terrible aim a wee bit around the kids...

Unaware of his comically bruised ego, Danny chuckled and held out her hand. When Alistair took it, Danny pulled him forward. She had a spring in her step that made him pick up his pace, sore limbs and all. Her cheer was infectious in a way he didn’t mind catching.

And then she covered his eyes.

“Is this an ambush?” He asked, trying hard not to laugh. “Because if it is, I’m kind of biotic.”

“So are Marc and I, Pops.” Danny nudged him forward one more step. “Just keep walking.”

Last time he heard that, someone tried to shoot him in the head. Alistair didn’t miss that much. Still, he didn’t get the feeling someone had a rifle on him. So, he allowed himself to be led by the eager hands of his daughter. At least her long, quick strides worked out some tension in his leg.

They stopped in what he assumed was the living room. There was no noise anymore – someone had shut up. Dull anticipation built in the base of his stomach, but he didn’t fight it like he would have before in years past. Hooray for therapy.

Then Danny let go of his eyes.

“Happy Birthday!”

Oh… so that was what he forgot.

Alistair blinked back surprise as he looked around the room. His family had apparently been hard at work decorating for his birthday. Everything was the obnoxious shade of blue he loved so much, and someone had printed out cartoon hamsters in party hats. One even looked like his dear Saren, to the point it made his throat tight. He missed that little guy, but his successor Udina was handling things just fine back in his room.

Bo had a knack for naming animals.

“Were you surprised, Al?” Garrus was chuckling as he came up and gently kissed him on the forehead – much to the consternation of their children. “Oh, shh. I can do that, I’m married to him.”

Marc’s answer came a fraction before Danny’s did – we know.

“It’s not like you still act like newlyweds. Gross.” Danny stuck out her tongue. “Anyway, come on! There’s cake!”

Indeed – there was cake. Or rather two halves of two different cakes clearly marked for turian and human consumption so nobody wound up throwing up until Alistair’s next birthday. He got the one that smelled like food, which was alright by him.

Garrus had the not-food. “Is this the part where we sing?”

When he saw the look on his husband’s face, he held up his free talon. “Don’t blame me, Marc told me about it.”

The small human answered back, hands flying. Archangel sold me out.

That he did. Yet Alistair chuckled as he watched his family playfully argue with each other. Just watching them made his heart feel full and light at the same time. It was a paradox he had grown used to over the years, and one he wouldn't trade for the world.

“Less arguing, more cake.” was the final word from Danny as she grabbed a particularly large slice. After all, she was a growing girl. “Better hurry up before I eat it all, Dad.”

And so Garrus did hurry, scooping up cake as well as quick kiss to the top of his daughter's head. Alistair smiled as he watched the scene, once more feeling the sensation that he was glad to be alive. He doubted that feeling would ever change.

At least as long as nobody shoved his face in the cake. Man, he was glad that tradition had died out when he turned 30.

#Alistair Shepard #ramblinganthropologist's writing

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lemon-dropshot · 6 years

Text

Day 17 - Royalty

Phanniemay 2018

Not A King

“Are you really going to let a 15 year old rule?”

“Clockwork,” an observant strayed from the assembly, floating briskly over to the time ghost with an amused demeanor. “Of all people, I would think you would be one to support the boy’s ruling. After all, you’ve taken quite a liking to him.”

The taller of the two shifted from his grandfatherly form to his adult. “I don’t mean to say that I wouldn’t support Daniel, but is it truly wise to let a high schooler rule the land? While this might result in a better timeline as opposed to a timeline with no ruler, the boy will struggle with balancing both his human and ghost identities.”

Observants, no matter how they display themselves personality-wise, will always put the timeline first and foremost. That being said, they would not feel even the slightest bit remorseful for dumping an entire dimension on an adolescent who already has too much to worry about. Honestly, Clockwork wasn’t surprised when the observant he was talking to simply nodded and headed back to their station without another word of rebuttal. In fact, it hadn’t even been a likely possibility that one would answer his question at all.

He supposed young Daniel would have to just “deal with it,” as many high schoolers nowadays said. There were already numerous responsibilities on both his human and ghost halves to preserve, but hopefully the boy would find some joy in leading. After all, Clockwork himself lead the observants (or at least tried to) while watching the progress of every timeline and reality in existence.

And so, within the next week young Daniel was brought to the tower with no knowledge of what to expect, other than the letter the time ghost left for him on his dresser that asked him to attend a meeting.

Of course with Daniel Fenton would always come Samantha Manson and Tucker Foley. The three friends went together in most nearby timeline occurrences, so Clockwork made sure to save three seats in the front pew.

“Hey Clockwork! We’re here!” There really was no need for the halfa to shout; Clockwork was floating next to his monitors, which wasn’t far from the open doors.

“Ah, so you are.” His red eyes swept over the three of them. “I believe the observants have some interesting news for you, Daniel.”

The boy in question nervously stepped behind his friends, who both spared him anxious glances. Tucker cleared his throat, speaking instead. “This isn’t about, uh, Dan, is it?”

“I’m afraid this may be worse than Dark Dan.” The ghost sighed, looking towards the dented thermos across the tower floor. “Although he has been acting rather odd lately.” Danny gulped, his eyes following the other’s line of sight.

“So what… is this about?”

Clockwork pinched the bridge of his nose, his hood shifting forward as he floated towards a lower placed monitor. He directed it upwards to the humans’ eye level with his staff, showing them a screen of the tiring fight between Daniel and the former king. “Since you defeated Pariah Dark, the observants have deemed it entirely appropriate to crown Daniel king of the ghost zone.”

All three teens froze for a moment, their jaws slack. What could one even respond with to a statement such as that? Being king was an honor, usually, but not for a child, and most certainly not for one who is at a rivalry with most every ghost he has encountered.

“M-me? King?” Danny held his finger pointing at his core. “But what about all the ghosts that hate me? I can’t be king!”

Sam snapped out of her trance, shoving a hand down on Danny’s shoulder. “Yes he can!” She corrected, grinning down at her bewildered friend. Tucker looked back up at the screen in awe.

“How cool would it be to rule a kingdom? You could finally show up all your enemies, Danny!”

“I…” The shorter boy paused, looking down at the tower floor. At a loss of words, he loosely fiddled with the white split-ends of his hair, before giving up and turning human to tug at the bottom of his shirt. “I’m not fit to be a king.”

Clockwork faintly smiled at the bashful teenager. “I know.”

“If Danny doesn’t want to be king, then can he pass the job off to someone else?” The two human boys perked up at Sam’s suggestion, then anxiously turned to the time ghost for his response.

The ghost lightly chuckled. “That’s why I invited you three here today. Hopefully, you can convince the observants to choose another ruler of this reality. They refuse to listen to anyone but the possible timelines.” Clockwork smiled somewhat darkly. “But if Daniel denies the position, then they cannot force him to accept it.”

“Since Danny doesn’t wanna be king, can I be the king?” Sam laughed and shoved the joking techno-geek away. Danny snorted loudly at Tucker’s expense, holding out a hand to help him up from where he fell on the floor.

“Clockwork, do not tell me you are influencing the boy’s decision.” The three teenagers immediately startled at the new voice that floated into the room.

“And what does that matter?” The time ghost slowly turned towards the observant that rudely interrupted. “It is ultimately Daniel’s decision whether or not to allow persuasion.”

The observant heavily sighed, their large eyeball rolling around as if a human child. “It is time for the meeting.” They gestured to the young boy, ignoring his friends, to follow them. Irritated, Sam burned a hole through the back of their head with her glare.

Suddenly stopping, the observant turned to Danny and looked him up and down, unimpressed. “You should transform into your ghostly form.” After he did, no one said a word as they four dutifully followed the observant.

When they finally reached the large assembly room, it was filled to the brim with hundreds of observants, all staring down at them as they entered the doors. Taking a shaky breath, Danny nervously glanced up at Clockwork, who was failing at hiding a smirk. He didn’t feel as confident.

They were then guided to the front row of clothed pews. Since when did leather survive in the ghost zone?

“Daniel Fenton, a half-human half-ghost, and conqueror of past ruler Pariah Dark, is the rightful heir to the throne. Of the possible timelines discovered, a new successor of Phantom is the sixth most likely occurrence, and the one of the more desirable, as compared to a future timeline of human extinction, and a future timeline of chaos among ghost kind.”

Clockwork slightly slid down in his seat, hoping to help ease the nerves of the three teenagers. “They only know that because they keep sneaking into my tower at night and sifting through timelines.” The first chuckle came from Sam, who clamped a hand over her mouth as soon as she did so. Some observants sitting nearby bristled at her rude behavior.

Danny, while smiling at the ghost’s snark, was perplexed. Would someone bring up his human realm crimes? His thousand year sentence of Walker’s prison? He knew could prove he was innocent, but how many would believe him? Absorbed in his own thoughts, he failed to realize that the room had gone completely silent.

Sam nudged his arm with her elbow. He looked up to find that every eye was focused him, a boy who was fiddling his thumbs together and sweating immensely. He gulped, standing up on his shaking legs. They were waiting for an answer to a question he hadn’t heard. He supposed he only had one answer, anyway.

“I don’t- I can’t accept the position. Sorry.”

There were appalled murmurs throughout the congregation. Danny looked down at his friends, who were smiling proudly at him (although Tucker looked a bit upset at the fact that he wasn’t suggested as a replacement ruler). Clockwork, however, had such an unreadable expression that Danny started to question if he had truly made the right decision.

The single observant on the stage tapped their microphone twice to call order and attention. “Daniel Fenton has denied himself as the rightful ruler to the Ghost Zone. A case like this has only happened once before, in which a ghost has chosen another to lead.” The ghost paused, coughing away from the speaker into their fist. “That, of course, was before our knowledge of the timelines. Now, we must resort to a further possibility.” In the audience, three teenagers leaned forward in their pew.

An observant from across the wide room floated up from those around them. They cleared their throat quickly. “The ninth most possibility seems adequate.” Another observant three rows down from the first stood up in disagreement.

“The ninth most possibility will soon crumble into a disaster! I say we should use the thirteenth most.”

“The thirteenth most probable?! That would be the unluckiest of them all!”

Clockwork, having predicted the outcome of an argument, was already guiding himself and the three teenagers out of the room. Let the observants fight, while he figures out a solution himself, but the humans would not need to see it happen.

In the hallway, Sam crossed her arms. “So what will happen to the Ghost Zone? Who’s gonna lead, if not Danny?”

“Well, Samantha, we shall wait and see.” The time master chuckled. “Personally, I believe the second most possible occurrence would be an excellent choice, no matter how unwilling the observants see it fit.”

Tucker blinked. “What’s the second possibility?” A knowing glint appeared in Clockwork’s eye.

“Oh, you mustn’t worry over that. Just do not be alarmed if any ghosts start to appear… unusual.”

Danny peered up at the time ghost. “What do you mean by that?”

Clockwork simply smirked at the question.

#danny phantom #sam manson #tucker foley #clockwork #ghost king au #well kinda not but #phanniemay #phanniemay18 #day 17 #royalty #mystuff #writing!!#late but here #dpart #dpwriting

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