A Danny Phantom One-Shot (Patreon)

A long one-shot, set during the episode ‘Urban Jungle’. Not yet completed. 

Danny POV

He was so cold…

Danny didn’t even try to pretend he wasn’t shivering as he stumbled through Fenton Works.

The entire town was overrun by plants, his friends and family were taken over and possessed by plants, he was currently being pursued by plants!

And despite that, all he could think about was how mind numbingly cold he was.

He crash landed in his basement, nearly collapsing as frost spread all over his body, but he forced himself to get up.

The portal... The Ghost Zone… It was his only shot. He just… Needed to get there…

Honestly, he couldn’t even groan at the sight of Sam appearing in between him and the portal. It was just that kind of day.

“Stay Danny,” the possessed form of Sam murmured with a smile. “I will protect you, as you have me. We can rule, side by side.”

Danny shivered, and only partly because of the cold. This was a really stupid time for his mind to be unable to decide if the way Sam spoke was either hot and creepy.

“Y-y-yeah, I d-don’t…” his retort was cut off as another violent set of chills came over him.

Ok, he got the message. No time for witty remarks or one-liners.

Danny charged towards the portal, going intangible with the intention of just going through Sam, when the stupid cold overtook hit him. Hard.

He gasped, letting go of his intangibility as his vision darkened. He could see icicles growing on his eyelashes, and he could barely even think past the cold and despair.

The last thing he felt was something wrap around him and hold him gently, and then he knew no more.

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Sam’s POV

Sam caught Danny before he could crash into the ground. She held him gently as she allowed herself a brief feeling of victory and affection.

She hadn’t been lying. She had every intention of letting Danny rule alongside her in the new world.

She was still herself - all Undergrowth had done was help put things into perspective. Of course humans were destroying the planet - she already knew that - thus, destroying them was clearly the best option for the planet.

That answer was so obvious. Sam wasn’t sure why she hadn’t realized it before.

By that same note, bringing Danny onto their side was simply the best option as well. His strength and abilities were obvious, as was his personality. It was undeniable he was a goof sometimes, impulsive, but in the end he always did what was right. Her father’s goal was right and just, therefore, why wouldn’t he join them?

Danny was a protector, a defender. Had been for as long as she had known him. His character is what she fell for, even before he became Danny Phantom.

Some of her memories felt fuzzy and distant, but they were probably unimportant. What remained was her love of nature, her desire to do something about it… And her feelings for Danny Fenton.

Sam could feel her cheeks blush slightly as she looked down at the unconscious boy in her lap.

She couldn’t really pinpoint when she truly fell for Danny. They had been best friends for years before he had gained ghost powers. He would support her, and she in turn would have his back. Somewhere along the way her feelings had grown to the point that she truly wanted to be with Danny.

Long before her new father had shown her the light, she had felt this way. The only reason she hadn’t made a move yet was she was afraid that Danny wouldn’t feel the same way.

Yet now, thanks to her father, her fears and insecurities had finally been put to rest. Without those fears restraining her, she felt free to actually follow through and do something.

His rejection of her offer… Sam wasn’t going to lie, it hurt. A lot. But she understood. He wasn’t necessarily rejecting her, but The Growth. He thought she was being controlled, and therefore in need of saving.

A noble, if unnecessary gesture. Sam just needed to show him why she was right. Same as always.

She brought one of her father’s mind vines up to Danny’s head when a surge of cold caused her to shriek in surprise. She barely had enough time to push Danny off of her when a surge of frost burst from his body, freezing the vine solid.

She looked at Danny in concern. Even while he was unconscious?

The entire time he was running from her he looked like he was in pain. Over and over he had frozen her fathers vines and even the environment. She had thought it was a new ability he had unlocked - could it be something else?

Was he ill?!

She couldn’t prevent a surge of panic within her. Surely father could help him. He was ancient and knowledgeable, he could fix this.

She brought another mind vine up, only to growl in frustration when another surge of cold froze it before she could get close enough.

Ok, so that wasn’t going to work…

She turned as more vines shoved their way into the basement, forming a smaller version of Undergrowth.

She gave a small bow, “Father, I have captured Danny Phantom for you.”

He cackled, “excellent my child, you have done well.”

Sam basked in the praise before the worry filled her once more, and she gestured towards Danny. “There seems to be something wrong with him. He is unwell, and the cold makes relocation difficult.”

Undergrowth watched curiously as he sent a batch of vines to wrap around Danny, only for the cold to burst out and freeze everything once more, causing both Sam and Undergrowth to jerk backwards in the limited space of the basement.

Her father’s eyes glowed for a moment as he observed Danny before letting out another cackle, “the fool has neglected to care for his core.”

There, she was right. He knew what was wrong, and now he would fix it. She should have known she had no reason to worry about -

“Kill him.”

Huh?

Sam blinked in incomprehension.

Do… What?

Those words, spoken dismissively by one who she looked up to the most concerning the one who held the place closest to her heart, shook Sam to her core.

“K-kill him, father?” Sam asked, her confusion evident, “but, your plans? Danny is powerful. Would he not be a major boon at your side?” At my side?

“Yes, my daughter.” The mass of vines that was the plant ghost turned and gave her a look, “but it is precisely because he is as powerful as he is that I make this decision. An imbalanced core, if left unattended, is dangerous. Especially within someone as powerful as him.”

Each. Word. Felt like a hammer driving a stake into her heart. Unknown to either ghost or human, deep rooted feelings lashed against mental conditioning.

“But, you could fix it, could you not?” Sam asked desperately as she looked at her father adoringly. “None are more powerful than yourself, you could save him, I know you can!”

The chuckle he gave rolled ominously through the dark basement. “Your confidence is comforting, but I’m afraid in this case it is not to be.”

What?

“Father?” Sam asked in confusion.

“My daughter, his core is unstable.” He crooned, “While only a nuisance for now, it has the potential for widespread destruction. The longer we wait, the more damage he will cause. It would be better to end this sooner.”

Sam stared at her father, “B-but if you healed him….”

He looked at her carefully. “Are you doubting me, my daughter?”

She jerked back with eyes wide, feeling as though she just got punched in the gut. “O-of course not father,” she murmured hastily.

“Good. I am not unsympathetic, but for the good of The Growth, the boy must die. Now,” he created a mutant cactus with a gesture and took one of its spines before handing it to her.

“Kill him.”

Sam stared at the spike in her hand for several moments, noting the purple liquid along its sharp point. Poison. With Danny unconscious, it would be a quick thing.

Swift. Merciful. Most importantly, an order from her father.

Death.

“May… May I have a moment alone?” Sam asked quietly.

He stared at her impassively and she felt a surge of panic. “J-just to say goodbye.” She couldn’t bear the thought of disappointing her father, but she needed… something.

He eventually gave a nod. “Of course, my child.” He dissipated amongst the foliage in the lab with barely a rustle. “I know you’ll make the right decision.”

And just like that, it was just herself and Danny.

The lab was dark, only the green of the Ghost Portal to light the area. Vines and other foliage had burst through the ceiling and floor and were now mixing with the various technological paraphernalia, something that Sam knew she should be able to take comfort in, yet couldn’t.

How could things turn so bad? Just a couple minutes ago Sam had been on the top of the world. Now, she was at the bottom of the pits of dread.

Sam stared at the still form of Danny. Her friend. That she had feelings for, something she could now freely admit without fear.

Now, the person she was supposed to kill.

Sam knew she had to obey her father. It was practically written into her very being,  her mind practically screaming at her to do so. Yet her chest felt like she was the one being stabbe, the pain almost physical.

It felt like she was being ripped in two from the two intense desires.

Her head jerked up when Danny shivered violently on the ground, and after a moment she went through some of the shelves and dragged out an electric Fenton-Blanket she knew that Danny’s dad kept for ‘emergency naps’. She carefully laid it over Danny before backing away from the cold.

A part of her immediately berated herself for doing so.

Was it not cruel to draw things out like this? If her father was correct (and obviously he was) then death was the only way to stop the pain. Killing him was simply the more merciful approach. Better. She hated seeing Danny in pain.

Which was ironic, considering she was the cause for much of it. After all, wasn’t it her that had been responsible for Danny’s portal accident in the past?

Just because said ‘death’ didn’t stick, just because he never blamed her,  didn’t mean that she felt any less guilty for that.

And now she was expected to kill him once more.

Would he come back as a full ghost? Would this time he hate her?

Sam couldn’t help the gasp of pain as her insides twisted unpleasantly.

She couldn’t go against the words of her father. He was the most important part of her life. After all, he had… Uhm, he… Didn’t he…? He was important. He was.

On the other hand, Danny was also important. Stubborn and foolish at times, but noble all the same. Her best friend for years.

Memories of everything they had gone through flashed through her mind; a history of friendship warring against her devotion to her father. The pain became intense, her breath coming in short gasps as her mind was lit aflame.

She… She couldn’t kill Danny… but, she couldn’t disobey her father…

Sam dimly realized she had fallen to her knees, teeth gritting as the two powerful desires warred inside of her.

All around the plants rustled and shook at her pain, some even reaching out to try to comfort her, but she couldn’t recognize any of that as her mind and heart burned within her.

She had to, for the Growth… But she couldn’t…

If only Danny didn’t have this issue with the cold, then - !

Wait.

Her breath stopped as her mind latched onto that last thought, the pain dissipating into a dull throb.

Her father… He hadn’t wanted Danny’s death till he discovered the ice problem, right? He had no issue with Danny otherwise.

Logically then, if the ice was no longer a problem…

Sam wouldn’t have to kill Danny.

Sam’s breath exploded outwards as her reality readjusted to the new realization.

Her father hadn’t said it wasn’t possible to help Danny - just that it was too dangerous and not enough time. She… Sam could work with that. She didn’t like disobeying her fathers instructions, but it was clear he would worry about her and would deny her if she brought it up. But if this succeeded, The Growth would gain a powerful ally!

The fact that Danny would be by her side was just a happy by-product.

With both sides of her psyche finally at peace she hesitantly stood up, mind going through everything that she knew.

First and foremost, she needed more time.

Already Danny was shivering under the electric blanket, and her father was expecting her to come out with word of Danny’s death.

What to do…

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Undergrowth’s POV

Would she do it?

The towering form of Undergrowth waited for his servant, idly stretching out his roots ever further while plants overtook the dwellings.

He was an ancient ghost. One of the oldest, existing long before flesh walkers figured out how banging rocks together made fire. As such, there was little that he had not attempted with his, admittedly, substantial set of powers.

Controlling a flesh walker in a manner such as this, however, was a new and novel experience.

It was similar in concept to how Pariah Dark created his Ring and Crown, if on a lesser scale. Undergrowth had been there when it happened. Not as enemies (at the time) but as ally’s of circumstance. Thus, he knew the theory, even if he hadn’t done it before.

He had taken a small fraction of his power, and Undergrowth had grafted it within the human female.

It contained little risk. The power he gave would regrow in time, and it would be no great loss if the girl perished. An annoyance at most, yet with the potential for so much gain.

It was also a lengthy process. Thankfully, the ghost child had been restrained already, so Undergrowth had been free to work uninterrupted. As it was, it had been close. Had the female’s soul been a fraction different than what it was, the process would have ripped her asunder.

As the Ring and Crown were extensions of Pariah’s will, so too would this female become an extension of his. Like a seed planted away from the plant it came from, that power would grow.

This wasn’t the mindlessness that came from the mind-vines, nor was it the complete control that came from overshadowing. The power fused within her would reshape her thoughts to align with his own goals. A devoted servant, one imbued with power yet would require no oversight.

She would be his Gardner

Undergrowth might not know her thoughts, but her emotions were plain as day through their connection.

The girl’s initial reactions were promising, her dedication a sight to behold! The earth, too, seemed to enjoy her presence, plants leaping to follow her will.

Undergrowth was about ready to say the experiment was an overwhelming success.

And then her friend happened.

Honestly, for the halfa to have an ice core of all things… Undergrowth could work around many obstacles. Earth, air, light, dark, water; if not helpful, at the very least he could resist a great many things. But ice?!

Ice?!

The only way it could be worse was if it was a fire core.

Undergrowth couldn’t even use the boy's body as fertilizer anymore - not without that hideous cold infecting everything and causing untold damage.

No, it was better to just kill him off. A simple, if disappointing conclusion.

Or it would have been, Undergrowth growled angrily, had his chosen caretaker not began to waver in her conviction. Began questioning his orders.

That, Undergrowth would not allow.

A test was in order. By ordering her to personally kill the last link to her previous life, the girl would cement her allegiance to him. And if she couldn’t?

Well, it would be a shame to kill her after spending the time and effort to convert her properly. But better she nourish the garden with her flesh than become a pest that would ruin his work.

Undergrowth had just begun to grow impatient when he felt his thrall’s conviction solidify and grow exponentially. Within moments, the ghost child’s energy signature vanished, and Undergrowth grinned.

Within moments, the female walked out and bowed. “Your will is done, father.”

“Excellent,” he all but purred, the plants up and down the street quivered and grew an extra foot, betraying his happiness. “Now that that unpleasantness is behind us, we have much to do. We’ve taken much, and we need to focus on what we have before expanding further. While I reinforce the existing plants, I wish for you to root out the remaining humans.”

He had expended quite a bit of energy to expand as much as he had so quickly. To attempt more without rest was foolish, especially with how much he had already accomplished. There were still forces out there that could contend with him. Not much, but enough.

“Of course father, it will be done.” She agreed submissively before turning and riding on a wave of vines using the power he gave her.

He chuckled to himself as he moved underground, amidst the roots of his burgeoning kingdom.

Everything was going according to plan.

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Sam’s POV

Everything was going according to plan.

She felt guilty for how naturally she deceived her father… But it was for a good cause! He would thank her once she presented Danny at her side, willing to help them.

It would all be worth it… But first, she had to actually take care of Danny.

Sam quickly doubled back to Fenton Works, easily bypassing the vines and other obstacles as she made her way to the basement.

Danny lay where she had left him. Still shivering, despite the electric blanket. , but around his waist was a Spectral Deflector. It had been a bit of a scramble to get it, but as she had expected Jazz kept one in her room.

“I’m sorry Danny,” Sam apologized to the unconscious boy as she moved to his side. She knew he didn’t like the feeling of weakness it gave him, the pain it caused. But it was the only thing she could think of to hide his energy signature.

She lifted Danny tentatively, bracing herself just in case another surge of ice happened, before breathing a sigh of relief.

That would have been… Unfortunate had Danny accidentally froze her before she had even started.

As fast as she could, she made her way to her former house, yet she didn’t spare the building anything more than a passing glance, her memories of the place faded and unimportant.

Instead, she focused on a building that had a far greater importance to her. Her greenhouse.

Unlike the house, her memories of the greenhouse remained crisp and clear.

Sam had always been sensitive to nature. More-so than anyone else she knew of. Becoming an eco-activist was truly less of a ‘rebellion’ that people thought it was, and a genuine desire.

It made sense to her - this was probably why her father had chosen her out of everybody else to be his daughter.

As the years moved on her frustrations and anger at the injustices of the world grew, her greenhouse became her outlet. One of the few places where she felt truly happy and relaxed.

Moving inside, she couldn’t help a smile as the place practically burst with life in her presence. “Hello my dears,” she murmured happily as each plant seemed to turn in her direction.

She swiftly moved in with Danny in her arms and looked around.

The linoleum floor had already been taken over, grass tickling her bare feet as she glided through the area. She could feel the energy of every plant thriving in the area, branches and vines brushing against her in greeting while bushes and flowers bowed to her.

The plants outside might be Undergrowth’s children, but she had raised most of these since they were seedlings. They were hers.

She had bought some time, but that was only the first step. The end goal was to figure out a way to heal Danny. To do that, she needed to find somebody she could question about his condition. And before she could do that, she needed to stabilize Danny so she could find said person.

One step at a time.

With a gesture of energy, every plant in the greenhouse focused on her.

“I need your help,” she told them as she lay Danny on the ground carefully. “Please help me take care of Danny.” She pleaded.

She didn’t need to ask, but it felt appropriate. Sam had always thanked them for providing for her in the past, why would now be any different?

Sam felt the very air shudder, the atmosphere becoming charged with purpose, and as one they moved under her direction.

Within moments the  greenhouse had been completely rearranged. The center had been cleared, the floor ripped open and a trench formed while all of her plants maintained a careful distance. Sam carefully lay the shivering Danny on a bed of soil and leaves, along with the blanket from the lab, a beam of sunlight directly on him.

Standing up, Sam took a deep breath and focused on the energy within her. She felt it as best as she could, directing it through her body.

This was probably the best they would get with mundane efforts. Now it was time for a little imagination…

It took some time, and quite a bit of trial and effort, but within an hour Sam was able to imbue a few of her flowers with the same spectral energy neutralizing ability her father had used to restrain Danny previously. She positioned them along the perimeter of the greenhouse, preventing any ecto-energy to be felt from the outside save for what already existed. Another imbued flower was positioned as close as she dared to Danny, hopefully draining any excess energy from him would help.

Danny was currently unconscious, so she didn’t think she had to worry about his emotions getting out of control… but just in case, several flowers began releasing a calming scent that should help. A variant of the sleep spores her father made previously.

It had taken a couple of hours, but Sam eventually looked at the results with pride. “Thank you so much.” She thanked fervently, stroking the foliage of the nearby plants, all of which preened at the praise.

She looked down at Danny and knelt down, stroking his cheek carefully. He looked slightly better in that he was no longer freezing things solid, but he was clearly cold still. “Please be ok…” she whispered before getting up and walking to the door.

“Please don’t tell father about this.” She implored her plants as she walked to the door. He could find out, she knew he could, but he would have to make the effort to do so.

She was taking a huge risk on this, if she couldn’t find a way to cure Danny…

She shook the negativity out of her head as the various plants rustled comfortingly. Now was not the time for doubts. The field had been planted, and she would reap whatever harvest sprouted.

But first… She turned her gaze towards the Town Hall.

Sam had given herself more time. Now she needed to figure out a proper solution. And unfortunately, she only knew of one other half-ghost.

Time to interrogate a fruit loop.

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Town Hall

This was probably one of the most foolish things she had ever done. Unfortunately, it was the only thing she could think of.

For all their mockery of him, Vlad was extremely intelligent and well practiced with his abilities, easily one of Danny’s most dangerous enemies. Danny once said that the only reason he wasn’t truly ‘dead’ was because Vlad wanted him as an apprentice.

Vlad Masters was a cutthroat businessman, a gazillionaire, a thief, an inventor, and a politician. And he had done all of this while keeping his powers hidden.

So Sam was going to attempt to outsmart the smartest man she knew of (next to her father obviously).

Thankfully, for all his strong points, Vlad had a couple of pretty big buttons she could push.

By the time she made it to Town Hall, she had gathered a small group of people with the mind-vines, a mass of plants trailing behind her.

Town Hall looked like a scene from an apocalypse movie. Cars abandoned in the streets leading up to the government building, crude barricades that would do absolutely nothing to stop her or her father erected a small distance from the building, where it appeared a refugee camp had been set up.

Honestly, she felt a little insulted. Did they actually think those barricades would do anything to stop her?

The moment she was in sight, she began hearing cries of panic from past the barricades. Seeing the tips of weaponry peek out, she slid back into the mindless throng she had gathered.

As she suspected, nobody shot.

Instead of moving in to attack, she had the entire group wait in perfect view of the barricades. Several minutes passed, and she could practically see their confusion as to her actions.

Her Father had come in swiftly and without mercy. Her actions right now were undoubtedly bizarre to them. Not that she cared what they thought - she only needed the attention of one.

And after several minutes of waiting, that person walked out from the ‘protection’ of the barricades and directly towards her.

In turn, she walked up to him.

Vlad looked none the worse for wear despite all the chaos. Not a hair out of place in either ponytail or goatee. Like every other time she had seen him he was wearing an impeccable black suit and tie that just screamed money.

“I knew you wouldn’t be able to resist,” Sam purred with an evil grin. “The brave leader, going out by himself to meet with the evil forces besieging his city… It’s the sort of show people love, isn’t it?”

“Samantha.” Vlad drawled in response, looking her up and down as if judging her. And finding her wanting. “What a… Fascinating new look. All natural I assume? I suppose I am talking to Undergrowth?”

“My father is busy right now.” Sam dismissed casually. “Dealing with weeds falls under the duty of the Gardner, and it is a duty I take most seriously.”

Vlad lifted an eyebrow before letting out a light chuckle. “I don’t know what Undergrowth did precisely, but if you truly believe you can take me on then you’ve clearly lost a few memories my dear.”

“All my father has done is shown me the proper ways.” She shot back at the perceived slight against her father. “As for who would win? In view of all of these humans?” She asked innocently, gesturing to the barricades in front of Town Hall where dozens of people could be seen peeking out. “I think I might stand a chance unless you wish to reveal yourself.”

They stared at each other intently for several moments before Sam leaned back and folded her arms with a sigh, “assuming, of course, that you are the real Vlad and not a duplicate.”

She actually gave it even odds. Vlad was certainly arrogant enough to come out in person, but it was the safer play to send a duplicate in his place.

To his credit, Vlad didn’t confirm or deny anything, and just gave her an infuriating smirk. “So if you aren’t here to fight… ?” He trailed off leadingly.

She shrugged with forced nonchalance. “As the closest threat to my fathers goals, I thought it appropriate to see what you were up to myself.” She gestured to the barricades that her plants could rip apart in seconds. “I can’t say I’m impressed.”

“Yes, well, it gives the masses something to do.” He replied dryly, not seeming bothered in the least. “And the ‘closest’ threat? Not that I disagree, but even under thrall I would expect you to have more faith in young Daniel’s abilities.”

Ok, here it goes. Plan A.

“Oh, but Danny was captured by my father early this morning.” She stated bluntly, tapping her chin thoughtfully. “I suppose he might have put up more of a fight had he not succumbed to an unknown condition. As it is, he is being taken care of.”

Well, as much care as she could give anyways.

“So, Daniel finally got caught did he?” Vlad sniffed disapprovingly, though she thought she saw a hint of worry. “I suppose it was inevitable with his foolish tendency to play ‘hero’.”

“And I suppose becoming a villain like you is any better?” She shot back.

Honestly, several of the more powerful enemies Danny had to face in the past was because Vlad and his ‘meddling’.

Vlad just shrugged, “To be a ‘villain’ is merely a matter of perspective.” He replied loftily. “But I digress. You mentioned something was wrong with Daniel?”

Sam forced a nonchalant shrug, “Father stated it had something to do with a core. All day today he had been cold, and before he went unconscious he was constantly freezing, turning everything around him and himself into ice.”

That seemed to spark a reaction.

Vlad’s eyes widened in shock, his mouth actually dropping open for a moment before he composed himself. “I see… Well that is rather unusual. Very well, how much do you want for him?”

The question took her off guard, and she looked at him blankly.

“Oh come now Samantha,” he gave her a condescending look that made her want to throttle him. “Why else would you tell me this if not to trade for something? So, what is it?”

“You think I would trade Danny to you?!” She hissed incredulously.

“He’s hardly worth anything to you right now, is he?” Vlad asked, as if ye were being completely reasonable. “Now, name your price. I’m willing to turn over Town Hall and all the people in it if you’d like.”

What?

He dared… Vlad thought she came to sell the one she loved?! And for something so trifling as that?!

Her lips curled up into a snarl, “Danny,” she hissed, furious beyond anything, “is not for sale! I would never give Danny to you!”

He raised his eyebrows in surprise, “if that isn’t why you’ve come, then why are you here?”

Dang it, she misstepped. She had hoped to keep how much Danny meant to her from him.

“You are the only other half-ghost I know.” She growled. “As you so often claim, you have twenty more years of experience and knowledge. I want you to tell me how to fix him.”

He didn’t say anything for a moment and just stared at her.

“I find it most curious that Undergrowth doesn’t fix young Daniel himself.” Vlad noted eventually, rubbing his chin. “I would think it would be well within his capabilities.”

She glared at him, “it is not to me to question my father.” She growled, not appreciating the reminder that her father had indeed refused to help Daniel, regardless of his reasons.

He rolled his eyes, “of course not.” He noted pensively. “And yet why would he have you ask me to help when he could do so himself? Unless,” an evil grin appeared on his face, “you aren’t here on his orders.”

The ground trembled at her anger, small sprouts coming up from the ground in preparation while shouts could be heard from the barricade. Yet Vlad looked unconcerned amidst it all.

This was why she didn’t want to talk to Vlad - he was actually intelligent. But she had no choice. “Tell me how to help Danny.” She ordered.

He tapped his chin in mock thought, “hmmm, I think not.” He declared with a sneer, not at all bothered by her implied threats. “Counteroffer though - give Daniel to me, and I’ll fix him for you. I’ll even avoid telling Undergrowth you are currently going behind his back. What do you say to that?.”

Sam’s vision turned red, and it took everything she had to not attack.

There was no way she’d permit that. Vlad was too dangerous, too smart, and too unpredictable.

She couldn’t trust any plan of his.

Instead, she directed her plants to go with plan B.

“Here’s a counter-counter offer.” She snarled as the crowd of zombie civilians parted.

“Tell me how to help Danny…”

Vlad tensed as a female came forward.

“… And I’ll give you Maddie Fenton.”

Sam smirked as Vlad stared at the woman he obsessed over. She did feel a bit bad, subjecting Maddie to this. But once Danny was healed, she and him could come and rescue his mother and return her to The Growth.

They could make it their first official date.

For now though, she had Maddie slide back into the throng of zombie citizens and gave Vlad a smirk of her own.

“So, ‘what do you say to that’?” She asked mockingly.

He stared between the throng and herself, and she could practically see the thoughts going through his head.

“If you attempt to free her yourself, I will notify my father.” She warned the older halfa.

Even if she couldn’t take on Vlad, her father no doubt could.

“I see…” she could see a bit of anger in his eyes now. “And if I threaten to tell your ‘father’ what you are doing?”

“And cause Danny’s death yourself?” She didn’t fully understand Vlad. He had no issue in hurting Danny, yet claimed he wanted the younger halfa to be his son. Still, she was relatively certain he didn’t want to kill Danny.

If nothing else, he would want to make sure he had the corpse to make a clone, which wouldn’t happen if Undergrowth killed him.

She knew she would have to tell Undergrowth eventually, but hopefully not until she had something to show for her efforts. He would be upset with her, but he would understand in the end.

He loved her after all.

Vlad was thinking about it. She could practically see the moment he made a decision.

“Very well. Maddie for my knowledge on ghost cores.” He declared, looking at her expectantly.

They stayed like that for several seconds before Sam raised an eyebrow, “Well?” She prompted.

He sighed, “I don’t suppose you’d be willing to release Maddie first?”

She couldn’t resist the scoff, “one of us has a reputation for backstabbing others, and it isn’t me.”

“I thought not.” He shrugged in resignation. “Very well. A ghost core is, as it sounds, the center of a ghost’s existence. In terms even you would understand, it is their heart, brain, spirit, all combined into one. The very essence of their being. With no core, there is no ghost.”

Ok, fascinating… And absolutely worthless to her so far.

“An important aspect of the core,”. Vlad continued after smirking at her expression, “is that it consists of the ghost’s will and drive, often being the motivation behind their obsession and, if strong enough, influences their power set. Much like the Box Ghost and his incessant obsession with boxes.”

Sam couldn’t help but raise an eyebrow at that. “But Danny doesn’t have powers relating to ice.” She said skeptically.

“Doesn’t he?” Vlad smirked at her. “The way he senses ghosts is via exhalation of cold mist perhaps?”

Ok, he had her there.

“It’s possible that the presence of ectoplasmic entities stimulates Danny’s core, however marginally, resulting in his ghost sense.” Vlad mused to himself. “Time and constant exposure could have caused it to mature.”

Sam frowned at the explanation, but couldn’t think of any way to disprove it. “So how do I fix it?”

Vlad raised an eyebrow, “That depends - without actually being there, it makes it rather difficult to diagnose. The core itself might be overcompensating, perhaps reacting badly to his human side, or perhaps it’s malformed. If you can bring him here- “

“No.”

Undergrowth might sense Danny if she removed him. And even if he didn’t…

“Then if you can bring me to -“

“No.”

… There was no way she could trust Vlad in any capacity around Danny while he was vulnerable.

Vlad frowned at her, “without access to him or any tools, it makes it rather difficult to help, don’t you understand?” He asked testily.

“I understand perfectly,” she replied absently, her mind already spinning. “If you don’t mind me asking, what is your ghost core?”

Sam smirked as his expression tightened at the sudden change in topic. “I fail to see how that is relevant.” He replied stiffly.

“You have a much better grasp on all of your powers,” she continued thoughtfully, smirking internally at his disgruntled expression. “but I don’t recall you ever doing anything ‘different’ or truly unique. They’re all either things that Danny’s been able to replicate, or it was due to some technological device or other.”

“Your point being?” He looked down at her.

Sam turned it over in her mind. “Either you’ve been holding yourself back significantly… Or you don’t have a ghost core.” She concluded with a smirk. “Or perhaps it’s not powerful enough. Which means you haven’t experienced what Danny is currently going through.”

Vlad scowled, “Even if that were true,” he bit out, “My knowledge of ghosts and my equipment make me the best chance Daniel has to fix himself.”

“Perhaps,” she murmured.

Or, perhaps not.

“There is no ‘perhaps’ about it, young lady.” Vlad rejected haughtily, unaware of her thought process. “Is this truly how little you care for Daniel? Willing to get him killed for your own pride?”

Just like that, her expression switched to rage. Several vines burst through the ground, thorns sharp and ready to attack while her eyes burned green.

“Don’t ever say that.” She snarled. “After all that you’ve done to Danny, you don’t get to accuse anybody of that!”

Vlad’s muscles tightened, his stance shifting slightly in preparation, but he held himself back from doing anything else. Instead, he brushed imaginary dust off of his suit, ignoring her threat. “I only hope you realize your folly before it is too late.” He replied loftily. “But if you insist, then I’m afraid we have nothing else to talk about. Now, for your end of the bargain?”

Sam took several deep breaths, calming herself marginally. “Very well.”

There was silence for several moments, and Vlad’s frown grew bigger as her own smirk increased. Until -

“Great gobs of ghost goo! Where am I… Maddie! Get away from my wife, you horticartial plant menace!”

Vlad gave her a sharp look, to which she just gave an innocent smile.

“Vladdy, you’re here too?! Don’t worry, I got you!” An instant later, the large figure of Jack Fenton barreled past the throng with an unconscious Maddie Fenton over his shoulder.

Never breaking stride, he slammed into Vlad and threw him over his shoulder as he ran towards the City Hall.

She had to hand it to Jack. The elder Fenton recovered surprisingly quickly from the sleep spores.

Sam gave a small wave to Vlad as he was carried away.

Had she given only Maddie to Vlad, she was sure he would convince everybody that he had done something heroic, saving somebody. Now though - in the eyes of everybody watching - it looked as if Jack had brushed off the mind vine and saved his wife by himself. No, not only himself, but with the way she had been in a threatening position, it looked as if Jack had saved Vlad.

It probably didn’t matter. In the end all would belong to her father after all; the opinions of weeds hardly mattered. But it made her feel better.

And now she had a potential clue to chase down. Vlad had admitted that a ‘core’ was something every ghost had. Which meant it wasn’t unique to half-ghosts, something she had worried about.

That gave her a much greater range of options.

With that, she directed the mindless horde back to the central hive to continue planting, while she made her way back to Fenton Works.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sam felt a presence following her, just at the edge of her senses.

It was probably Vlad. Or a duplicate of his, as she doubted he’d be able to get away from Jack very easily. Most likely hoping to figure out where she hid Danny.

Too bad for him, she wasn’t going there yet.

Instead, Sam made her way to Fenton Works, easily going down to the Ghost Portal.

It was still overgrown, the vines and various other plants seemed to be enjoying the ectoplasmic energy from the Portal itself, yet she ignored all that.

Gearing up the Specter Speeder was a familiar process. Even if she was doing it alone, it just meant that it took her a bit longer.

Sam eventually slowed down and looked at the Portal nervously.

She was connected to her father. Not tightly, but she could sense him, currently amongst the roots deep underground. And she was sure he could feel her the same way.

That connection, logically, must have limits. And she had a feeling that walking through a tear in the fabric of reality might be that limit.

But, if she was correct, her father would have to actively look for her to notice she was missing. If he did, then there would be no hiding that she had gone. Without permission no less.

A deep, integral part of her raged at the thought of needing permission, but it was easily ignored.

Lying about Danny was one thing. Did she truly want to compound on her sins?

Yes.

Sam shuddered at the ease the answer seemed to come to her, but… If the other option was that Danny would die, she would do that and more.

Vines gathered inside the Spectre. Thin branches wrapped delicately around her arms as several flowers bloomed around her waist and wrists.

Her father would be upset, but hopefully he would understand?

Maybe he wouldn’t even notice her absence?

Her father was busy establishing The Growth. If Sam was fast enough, she might be back before he realized she was gone.

She let out a shaky breath and started the Speedster, her expression filled with determination.

Sam would accept rebuke, would weather any criticism. But in this, she would not be stopped. There was no other path for her.

With that, she entered the world of the dead.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Clockwork’s Tower

Sam found Clockwork’s Tower rather easily.

Too easily.

There weren’t many ghosts that Danny could call friend. Even fewer that she knew the location of, or would be able to help.

That was what made Clockwork, the ghost of time, different. He had helped Danny several times in the past already. If anybody could help, it would be him. Even better, he should already be aware of the situation, which made him the fastest choice as well.

Still, even knowing that, the fact that Sam was able to find Clockwork’s Tower as quickly as she did made her suspicious. They might have some things mapped in the Ghost Zone, but that didn’t help as much as you would think due to the transitory nature of the Zone itself.

It meant the time-ghost was probably aware she was looking for him, and wasn’t opposed to the idea.

It should have been a comforting thought.

It wasn’t.

Her theory was further confirmed when she landed the Speedster in front of large gates with interwoven gears that promptly opened before she could do anything.

Sam took a firm breath before walking in, the ominous feeling compounded by the complete lack of nature anywhere.

She eventually came to a large circular room she remembered well, dozens of monitors haphazardly hanging throughout the area with large gears churning in the background.

Even with her newfound strength and abilities, the entire setup was too creepy for her liking.

“Ah, Miss Manson.”

Sam almost shrieked as she spun around, vines surging around her protectively.

In his child form, Clockwork in his adult form finished floating through a door carrying… a pot of peonies?

Sam watched in utter confusion as the time ghost placed the flowers next to one of the chairs. “Please, sit down. You’ve caught me at a good moment, I just finished replacing a tape for Dark Dan.”

“What?” She did not expect this level of familiarity from the ancient ghost.

“Dark Dan.” Clockwork repeated. “I have audio tapes playing for him - I don’t believe in being cruel, and isolation is a rather brutal fate. We’re currently in the middle of Star Wars.” He chuckled, “I do enjoy those older stories, where good triumphs over evil. But I digress, please have a seat. Oh, and I brought flowers to make this a bit more comfortable for you.”

Sam’s thoughts had been thoroughly detailed, and she cautiously sat down next to the flowers, briefly running her fingers over the petals and taking some comfort in their presence.

Still, she had to be firm. She came here with an objective.

“I didn’t come to socialize.” She rallied her thoughts. “I assume you know what’s going on?”

“I do.” Clockwork gave her a small smirk before shimmering and appearing as an old man. “Quite a bit more than you I’d wager.”

Yeah, she should have expected that.

“So you know why I’m here.” Sam gave Clockwork a stern look. “How do I help Danny?”

“Hmph. So demanding.” Sam would have worried, except Clockwork looked more amused than anything else. “Is this you asking? Or Undergrowth?”

“I’m asking on behalf of Undergrowth.” Sam answered firmly, narrowing her eyes. “Does it matter?”

“Perhaps not.” Clockwork replied in such a neutral tone that it put her on edge.

“Then why ask if you already know the answer?” She demanded with a scowl.

“Why do I do anything if I know the future?” He shot back as he turned into a child.

There was probably some nugget of wisdom he was trying to share, but Sam just grit her teeth. “You know what, I don’t care. I don’t have time for this. Danny needs my help, and you have the answers I need.”

“Hmmm, Danny does need help, that much is true.” The childlike form mused. “Such an interesting turn of events. There was such a small chance of it turning out like this you know. A single future amongst thousands. How interesting…” he seemed lost in thought for a moment, and Sam felt uncomfortable even as she was left baffled at his words.

Before she could say anything, Clockwork focused on her again. “Unfortunately, I know you are aware that I don’t directly involve myself in these issues.”

“Ok, that’s not true.” Sam bit out. “Danny told us you saved all of us from that explosion.”

“Extenuating circumstances.” He waved her accusation off. “Preventing the rise of another Dark Dan is well worth me coming off the sidelines.”

“And helping Danny find the cure to ecto-acne?” She shot back.

“I don’t know what you’re referring to.” Clockwork replied in his adult form. “I merely taught Danny a lesson in the importance of meddling with time. If he learned something in addition to that, then that's his prerogative.”

“So what, you just pick and choose when you want to help?” Sam growled out as she glared at the elderly ghost.

To her surprise he nodded, “an extreme oversimplification, but not inaccurate view I suppose.” He murmured. “Knowing what each future holds is a heavy responsibility, one I try to use responsibly. I’m not much of a puppeteer you see, and the world hardly needs one, so I let things be unless the consequences are truly dire. And even then, I find the best results are from little nudges given. Bits of knowledge inadvertently learned.”

“Fine, then help me learn how to help Danny.” Sam had to take a steadying breath, the peonies at her side growing to wrap around her hand comfortingly. Taking a moment to stuff her pride down, she looked down. “I just want Danny to be safe. Please.”

She was running out of options. Her Father believed Danny was too great a risk to help. Vlad was the least trustworthy person alive. Clockwork could help, but he wasn’t…

Sam nearly jumped when Clockwork placed a hand on her shoulder, his expression turning sincere.

“I understand.” He said, and to her surprise it actually seemed like he meant it. “However, for me to interfere too much might result in an undesirable future. It’s something that I must constantly be careful of. I can at least tell you that you are on the right path.”

“Really?” She hated how weak she sounded. But at that moment, she needed the reassurance.

“Indeed.” He gave her shoulder a final squeeze and smile before making his way back to his own chair. “Now, I can’t tell you directly, but I can assist in a few small ways.”

“Such as?” Sam asked. It was more than she had, so she’d take it.

“It’s not much.” He assured her. “Just a single question really.”

She folded her arms and gave a skeptical look. “That’s it?”

Clockwork returned her look with a smirk. “That’s it.”

Why he would ask yet anothet question that he knew the answer to, she had no idea. Still, it was an easy enough thing to agree to. “Very well.”

“Excellent.” He gave a pleased look. “Now, what will you do once you save Danny, and he doesn’t wish to go along with Undergrowth’s plan?”

Sam frowned. “Why would he resist?” She asked in genuine confusion.

Danny always did what was right. Yes, he fought against them initially, but once she explained everything properly he’d have no reason to resist.

“Humor me.” Clockwork pushed, leaning on his staff. “Danny gets cured, and for one reason or another he and Undergrowth find themselves at odds. Whose side are you on?”

“I…” what could she say?

A phantom pain ripped through her heart and mind at the conflicting thoughts, and she instinctively shied away from it. Why would they fight? Both Danny and her Father meant so much to her, both were obviously good, they had no reason to fight each other -

Wait, she was getting ahead of herself.

“You haven’t given me enough information to choose,” Sam ground out, “who is the instigator of the conflict?”

It was probably Danny, but…

“What is the purpose of the fight? How can I choose a side if I don’t know what the sides are fighting for?”

There. Sam felt proud for dodging that mental minefield.

“Hmmmm. So you can foresee a situation where you’d fight against Undergrowth?” Clockwork asked curiously.

Sam stiffened.

She had dodged the minefield only to throw herself onto a bomb.

“I-I didn’t say that!” The plant girl immediately protested.

“Are you sure?” The time ghost’s expression held no judgment. No condemnation. “If you need an explanation before choosing, that means you have not chosen. If you have not chosen, then that means you haven’t chosen Undergrowth. Doesn’t that mean there might be a circumstance where you might choose against him?”

Sam is beginning to hate this line of questioning.

“I-I’m simply saying that perhaps Father does not have all of the information. Or perhaps Danny doesn’t. A lack of communication .” She desperately grabbed.

The idea of her father being wrong - about anything - was practically anathema to Sam. He was ancient and strong, far wiser and smarter than she was. And obviously he knew what was best for her. Why wouldn’t she follow his orders?

He loved her after all.

And yet… Hadn’t she already come to the conclusion that he was wrong about Danny? Wasn’t it possible, however unlikely, that he’d be wrong again?

[Under Construction. Need to finish up Sam’s conversation with Clockwork]

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Clockwork watched as Samantha left with a small chuckle.

“Right on time.” He mused as he saw the direction of the Speedster on course to pass by Skulker’s Island, where Skulker was about to take a quick patrol.

Sometimes, all that was needed was a small nudge. A tiny delay to allow two people to meet. A small, seemingly inconsequential thing that can make all the difference.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sam was busy doing her best to not freak out.

Clockwork had given her practically nothing. The assurance that everything would work out was not assuring at all.

Next on her list… Well, there were a number of enemies that she could squeeze the truth out of. It was just a matter of finding them.

The Speedster shook violently as multiple explosions hit the rear.

“Hah! To think you’re bold enough to come so close to my haunt whelp!”

Speaking of enemies…

Hello rightfully placed aggression.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Skulker’s POV

Skilker had been in the middle of planning another hunt when he detected the whelp’s flying vehicle.

He smirked evilly as he flew out to intercept. Normally the halfa wouldn't bother with the vehicle and just fly, which meant he had his irritating friends with him.

It always did make the Hunt more thrilling when Danny was truly motivated to fight.

The robotic hunter released a salvo of tracking missiles that impacted the vehicle in quick succession and crippled its speed.

“Hah! To think you’re bold enough to come so close to my haunt whelp!” Skulker crowed gleefully as he flew abreast of them. “Why don’t you surrender your pelt right now, and I’ll spare your -“

“Skulker!”

He faltered as the door opened, and instead of seeing a halfa with white hair and foolish jumpsuit, he briefly saw a black haired girl with glowing green eyes. The whelp’s not-girlfriend.

It was only ‘briefly’, because the swarm of vines that shot out of the vehicle and wrapped around him quickly consumed his attention.

Skulker activated his jet pack and set it to max, flames belching out while he blasted the vines with his cannons, causing damage to himself but managing to free himself, thus allowing him to get a better look at his foe.

Yep, it was the girl. Samantha Manson.

As a Hunter, of course he paid the utmost attention to his prey’s environment and friends. Though, she was undeniably different. She lacked her normal dark tones she favored, as well as her usual accessories. And shoes?

“You are the whelp’s girlfriend, aren’t you?” Skulker called out. He knew what her next move would be - she would blush and stumble at the accusation, denying all, which would give him a chance to -

“I am!” came the snarled reply, the girl letting out another surge of thorny vines without pause which latched onto his suit, thorns twisting and latching into the metal.

A machete quickly flew into his hands and he hacked at the vines, only for more to replace them. This was quickly getting out of hand.

“What…” Skulker grunted as he finally hacked enough to force some distance. “How did you get powers? Don’t tell me you were stupid enough to have a portal accident like the whelp?”

He cursed to himself as the number of vines he had to dodge simply increased, even as the girl maintained a silent glare. Not at all like the ghost child.

His sensors were indicating a level of ecto-energy within her. Add in the differences to her apparel, it was obvious that this was the result of a ghost. He just wasn’t sure which one.

“If you’re here now,” Skulker gritted his teeth while rapidly firing several missiles at the incoming vines. “Then Phantom can’t be far away.” Dodge the asteroid a cluster of vines threw. “While I would love to stay and fight you, I see no point -“ he raised an arm and barely blocked several leaves that had been sharpened enough to cut into the metal, “- in wasting energy when my preferred prey is around.” He fired off his boosters and moved further away, barely avoiding a cloud of mysterious pollen. When he finally gained some distance, he watched the vehicle and girl cautiously.

Skulker had no desire to fight both the girl and Phantom at the same time. Until he had more information, he would stay back.

“As if I would give you the chance to hurt Danny!”

Skulker’s suit suddenly gave off multiple alarms. Looking at them, he blanched.

[Danger: contaminants found in weapons systems and jetpack. Heat levels rising to unsafe levels. Efficiency compromised. Shutting down systems for safety.]

Looking down, Skulker realized to his horror that small flowers were sprouting from within his arm, much like what was probably happening throughout the rest of the components.

Just as the jetpack failed, a larger vine wrapped itself around him and yanked him back to the ship, dragging him in and slamming him against the wall.

Vines continued to wrap around his arms and chest, the metal protesting under the strain.

And in front of him stood the whelp’s girl, her expression a picture of disdain.

“Alright, you’ve got me.” Skulker admitted, grunting as the metal in his shoulder buckled, and he made sure to keep his voice calm and level. Clearly a change in tactics was needed.

She just kept up her glare. “I have some questions,” she growled, “and you are going to answer them.”

Skulker grimaced as his suit began to buckle once more. “I can do that,” he agreed calmly. “But… some context would be helpful.”

It took a bit - the girl was reluctant to trust, but clearly felt she was backed into a corner.

Skulker had heard of Undergrowth. One of the more ancient ghosts from before the time of Pariah. To hear he was making a play for the human world was… Troubling. Last Skulker had heard, he had been in hibernation somewhere over the core lands.

Clearly his information was outdated. That was annoying.

Ghosts like Undergrowth were bad for the majority of ghosts. World domination was one thing (even if Skulker never saw the appeal). But genocide was another thing entirely.

Something that destructive affected both the physical world and the ghost zone.

Now, normally Skulker wouldn’t care all that much. Unfortunately, neither Phantom nor Plasmius seemed able to do anything.

Which was really quite inconsiderate of them, seeing as how that was their territory.

“So the whelp’s been incapacitated by a developing ice core?” Skulker mused, careful not to say anything to set off the brainwashed girl in front of him. “I’ll admit, I’m a bit shocked that it’s generating enough to affect him to this degree. But then again, this is Phantom, is it not?”

“So I’ve been told.” Sam replied testily, absently petting a flower wrapped around her arm. “Now what can you tell me about fixing it?”

“Hmmm, very well…” He acquiesced.

He was surprised that Plasmius hadn’t done anything to stop Undergrowth yet. But if he wasn’t going to do anything, and if Phantom couldn’t do anything…

Skulker wanted to bash his head against something. (In fact, inside the mecha-suit where his ‘physical’ form resided he did just that.) Despite Phantom being his prey, he’s had to team up with the whelp far too many times over the years.

He didn’t care about protecting others, or some other stupid reasoning. He just cared about his own livelihood. If Undergrowth succeeded, Skulker’s afterlife would be made infinitely more difficult. Thus, he was forced to act.

But first, he had to get away from the whelpette.

The vines tensed slightly, and he grit his teeth at the reminder that he was currently well and truly caught (which was not a proper indication of skill! He had been expecting Phantom, and was confronted with somebody with unknown capabilities instead. False information had led to the downfall of greater men than he.)

Well, if he couldn’t get away from her… He’d just have to use her.

“Different cores require different methods to properly care for,” He replied slowly, an idea forming in his mind. “I have a metal core, and it’s never developed to the point of being able to - Wait!” He panicked as the vines began to constrict once more, “Wait! I know someone that can help Phantom!”

At the mention of Danny she immediately stopped and gave him a conflicted look.

Skulker breathed a sigh of relief. He had her.

There were multiple layers of brainwashing. Most only let the victim perform basic tasks. It was another matter entirely to let the victim have a degree of autonomy.

Undergrowth didn’t have natural brainwashing abilities. His control was over plants. Human manipulation was a bit outside his usual power set.

Skulker didn’t know what the plant ghost was hoping for, but he doubted he expected the girl to become fixated on helping Danny. Going as far as to delude herself into believing that Danny would willingly go along with this farce. But he could use it.

The whelpette wasn’t stupid, so he couldn’t blatantly lie. But she was more single-minded, and if he was right, he should be able to mislead.

“I give you my word that I mean what I say.” Skulker stated proudly. “I have no desire to hunt the whelp while he’s unable to fight back. When I get him, it will be because I’ve outsmarted him, because I’ve earned that pelt of his, and not a moment before. Therefore, it’s only appropriate that I ensure he returns to fighting form as soon as possible.” True

The best misdirections were based on truth.

She stared at him in silence, and for a moment he wondered if perhaps he put a bit too much truth in.

“If I find this is a lie, I will engineer a plant whose sole purpose is to slowly digest you over the rest of your ghostly existence.” Samantha stated coldly.

Hmmm, maybe a bit too truthful…

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sam’s POV

“Pass a left here and continue on for a couple minutes.”

Sam dutifully drove the Speedster around a floating rock, really not appreciating how much trust she had to extend to Skulker.

If he decided to fight her, he would lose. Skulker’s armor was broken and dented, one arm twisted beyond repair while various pieces sparked dangerously, and Sam could see the internal mechanisms from a gash in his side.

No, Skulker wouldn’t fight. But she could easily see him lead her into a trap.

“Remind me why we need to go to Ember’s place first?” Sam asked the Hunter ghost, hands gripping the steering wheel.

“Because I need to find them first.” Skulker replied roughly. “You and your boyfriend don’t exactly have the best of reputations here. They’re liable to run if they see you. So you’ll stay with Ember until then.”

“So why not just have me trailing behind?” Sam snapped.

Was Skulker trying to get in her good graces by constantly referring to Danny as her boyfriend?

… The fact that it was somewhat working should probably concern her more.

“It might take a bit to find them.” Skulker replied as he attempted to shift an arm in place with a squeel of metal that caused her to grimace. “And it will be far better, time wise, if I knew exactly where you are when I find them.”

Sam grumbled at that, but she had no real option but to go along with it. He was right in that Danny didn’t have forever. Whether he was right on whether it would be faster his way was up to debate.

Considering she had no idea how it would take for her to find and interrogate another ghost… Skulker could very well be telling the truth. Which didn’t exactly help her temper.

Sam had to take a steadying breath. She could acknowledge that Skulker had helped Danny in the past. And to her knowledge he had never gone back on his word.

But those times, Danny was conscious and able to defend himself if need be. What if

Sam just wanted to find somebody to help Danny. Why was this becoming so complex?

“Right here,” Skulker brought up a hand. “The purple door on the right.”

Sam looked to the right. And then looked at Skulker. “There are a lot of doors to the right.” She said dryly. “And all of them are purple.”

Skulker scoffed. “That door.” He retorted, pointing to a door that looked like every other door.

“Or course. How could I miss that?” Sam drawled as she parked next to the door.

Skulker coughed. “Why don’t you wait out here for a second while I go talk to her? Let her know the situation?”

Sam rolled her eyes, but gestured for Skulker to continue. The battered Hunter quickly made for the door and knocked on it.

It took several moments, but soon the door opened to reveal Ember McLain.

The blue haired ghost took one look at Skulker before bursting out into laughter. “Ok, whatever you’re here for is absolutely worth it to see you like this.” She smirked evilly. “So what happened? Babypop kick your can again?”

Skulker growled before pushing Ember into the realm and closing the door.

And Sam was alone again. She waited a full two seconds before letting out a groan, her head falling into her hands heavily. This felt like it was getting out of hand. Like it was going to blow up on her. But what else could she do?

She was supposed to come in, interrogate one ghost, get her answers, and return. Now, she had talked to two ghosts, and that number looked like it would increase to four.

And she still had no idea how long this would take.

For her Father, for Danny, and for her own happiness, she genuinely couldn’t think of another path.

The vines and flowers she had with her wrapped around her slightly, giving her a small hug that she appreciated.

The door opened once more and Skulker waved for her to come through.

With no small amount of trepidation, Sam exited the Speedster and cautiously walked into Ember's realm.

It was… Not ‘normal’. But more normal than she was expecting.

It was a living room, but with a weird set of descending plateaus into a pit filled with couch cushions and a giant TV. The color scheme was all black and blues, and the carpet looked like flickering blue fire.

So while it was odd, it was the sort of eclectic design she could imagine in the real world.

The fire motif made her uncomfortable, but overall it seemed a perfect match for the singer currently in the pit, watching her carefully.

A look that she readily returned.

Skulker coughed, interrupting the staring contest. “I’ve explained the situation to Ember.” He informed her. “She’ll host you until I get back.”

“Yeah yeah, that’s fairly obvious since ya waved her in. And now this host is kicking the trash can out of here, so get out.” Ember called out dismissively, strumming a few chords idly.

Skulker didn’t waste a moment longer, and in moments it was just Rocker and plant girl staring at each other , a mixture of judgment and dislike on both faces.

Eventually Ember let out a scoff and simply focused on her guitar as she leaned back into the cushions. “I don’t know why the trashcan thought leavin’ you with me was a good idea, but, go ahead and have a seat I guess.”

Sam descended into the pit cautiously, keeping an eye on the ghost girl. “I’m still trying to figure out why he needed to leave me behind at all.” She said suspiciously. “And as to why he decided to leave me with you as opposed to anybody else.”

Ember shrugged, “Heck if I know. Even after all this time I still don’t know what he’s got going through that tin brain of his.” She strummed the guitar a little before giving an evil grin. “For all he knows, maybe I’ll take the chance for a little revenge after all the beatings babypop’s given over the years.”

Sam glared back, “will you?” She felt her vines trembling in preparation.

Attacking somebody with fire for hair with plants was probably a bad idea. Restraint would be difficult.

Ember’s grin grew, the room heating up slightly as her hair flared. “What would you do if I did?”

Sam refused to be intimidated. She would have refused before being chosen by her father, but especially now, “Then you will find this rose has thorns.”

The tension in the room was practically a physical force between the two girls until Ember suddenly relaxed, leaning back into the cushions.

“Rose, huh?” Ember snickered, not looking at all threatened. “Thought you woulda gone for hemlock. Somethin’ a bit darker would have fit your style more spooks.”

Sam blinked, confused at the sudden shift… And dang it. Ember was right, that would have been so much better.

Feeling off balance from the sudden lack of tension, Sam found herself focusing on what Ember had called her. “Spooks?” She questioned.

“Huh? Oh, yeah. Cause you’re spooky. You got that vibe and all.” Ember answered nonchalantly.

A part of Sam  - the one that Undergrowth had attempted to bury deep - practically preened at the thought of a ghost calling her spooky.

“Or, you used to.” Ember studied Sam carefully. “I guess it’s still spooky, but leaning more into homeless creep at the same time. Not sure I like it as much.”

Sam felt her face flush as she touched the leaf dress she was currently wearing. It was extremely different from her usual clothes. One she might have scorned in a previous life.

“These were chosen for me by my father.” Sam managed to say, pushing down the shame and embarrassment that she shouldn’t be feeling. “And I would warn you not to insult it.”

It was an honor to wear something her father had chosen.

Within her soul, a portion of Sam’s psyche raged at the unnatural thoughts.

Ember raised an eyebrow lazily, and for a moment it looked like she was about to say something else before shrugging. “Eh, far be it for me to criticize if somebody wants to change their style. Got enough of that crap when I was alive.”

Sam blinked, a bit taken aback. Sure, she had known intellectually that Ember used to be alive, but hadn’t processed it more beyond that.

“When you were alive?” Sam echoed, her plants finally calming down from their aggressive posture.

Ember quirked an eyebrow, “what, you think I just popped out of the ether?” She scoffed. “Nope. I did my time, had to go through the system. Hard to forget something as miserable as school.”

There was enough scorn in Ember’s voice, Sam was sure there was a story there.

Yet more proof of the magnanimity of her Father. All of that was no longer something people had to worry about.

“I don’t imagine it’s changed much.” Sam admitted cautiously.

Ember let out a dramatic sigh, “yeah, figured as much. Saw plenty of that when I was out on my tour.”

When Sam gave a skeptical look Ember rolled her eyes, “you know I actually got fairly popular before I made it to Amity Park, right? Your town was just one more destination for me.” She snarked at the plant girl.

Sam frowned, “I know that.” She said with some annoyance. “What I find questionable is how much you paid attention to stuff like schools while out and about.”

“Hey! it’s important to know your audience.” Ember protested. “Not that I needed to bother. I dunno if it should be a comfort or depressing to find out that, surprise! Schools haven’t changed at all.”

“I’m told college is different.” Sam admitted, though she shared in the look of skepticism that Ember shot her. “Though I would say ‘depressed’ is the more appropriate feeling.”

“Eh, maybe.” Ember shrugged. “But until then they do their best to group everybody together. And I get it - not everybody wants to break free from their group to do their own thing. And that’s fine. We just call these people ‘boring’.”

Sam tried not to laugh. She honestly, truly did. But she couldn’t stop a burst of laughter at that description.

“Tell me I’m wrong.” Ember challenged with a smirk, her hair dancing merely as she leaned forward.

“I can’t,” Sam admitted as she finally managed to get her laughter under control. “I agree, if that’s what they want, then sure. But what’s frustrating is how those people then feel the need to shame anyone who wants something else.”

Ember clicked her tongue. “Exactly! The moment somebody does something outside the mold, BAM! Schools are just mini clone factories.”

“It’s not just the schools!” Sam exclaimed, “It’s like people in general feel this compulsory need to force people in line!”

“Preach it, sister.” Ember strummed a bit on her guitar before sitting up and giving an evil grin. “But hey, that’s why they make girls like us every century or so. Willing to buck tradition and throw the whole status quo into chaos.”

As Sam watched Ember go back to absently strumming her car, she felt… Conflicted.

She didn’t expect to actually get along with anybody in the Ghost Zone. Especially not with Ember McLain, one of Danny’s enemies.

But then, were they still enemies? Since Danny was joining Undergrowth, that is. Ember wasn’t human, so Undergrowth wouldn’t have an issue with her, right?

“Since we’ll be waiting for the trash can, we might as well make the best of it, Spooks.” Ember remarked. “You got any hobbies? Besides annoying ghosts with Babypop?” Ember made a show of looking over her outfit. “And gardening, I suppose.”

Sam hesitated only for a moment before replying. “I… I do enjoy writing poetry.

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Skulker’s POV

Skulker rubbed his temples in frustration, the cavalcade of noise heightening the headache from a long day already.

Not that it was too surprising. In general, ghosts didn’t get along with each other. The Ghost Zone was not a friendly place - a lesson all ghosts learned since the moment they formed.

They fought or they died. Only those with enough power could afford to give mercy.

The ghost’s he had gathered all actually had a decent amount of power, to be able to stay alive as long as they had. They - and he included himself in this statement - no longer needed to fight for their survival every day. But ingrained instincts were hard to push down, and they all were aware there were much bigger fish in the sea.

It was because of this that whenever you managed to get a group of them together, things tended to… Escalate.

*Bang!*

“You gotta be joking - you wanna save the punk?!”

“Mutiny! You’ll walk the plank for this, ya scurvy ghost!”

“BEWARE!”

“Why should I, the Great Technus! Care for who has finally taken the ghost child out?”

“Do you think they’ll like a cookie for FINALLY GIVING THAT BOY HIS JUST DESERTS?!”

Well, he had gathered these particular ghosts for their strength. Not for their intelligence.

“Skulker.”

The noise instantly died down as Warden Walker, who had been quiet up to this point, spoke up.

“You tempted me to this little gatherin’ of lawbreakers by sayin’ you had information I’d be mighty interested in. And I’ve thus far restrained myself from apprehendin’ the lot of you.” Walker’s voice was casual, but nobody could mistake the intensity of his look as he glanced at all of them, causing most to tense.  “But so far, the only thing I’ve heard is this Undergrowth, who has no rap sheet, unlike the lot of you, has successfully done what you all have tried to do.”

Walker was the most powerful ghost here at this time. Unfortunately, Skulker calculated that Walker was also the one with the least reason to be here.

Thankfully, ‘the least’ was still pretty big.

“Is the destruction of the Ghost Zone enough of a reason?” Skulker ground out, causing Walker to lift his head in slight surprise, slowly tilting his head in silent permission to continue.

Alas, the rest of the room decided to voice their skepticism.

A high and squeaky voice rose above the rest. “Oh, c’mon, you’re just mad that somebody didn’t respect your dibs on Phantom, aren’t you?” Youngblood taunted.

Skulker narrowed his eyes at the child ghost. “That -”

“Liar liar, pants on fire!” Youngblood interrupted gleefully with a smirk.

Skulker growled in frustration. “Do none of you know of Undergrowth? Seriously?” He asked incredulously, getting a round of negatives at that.

“Look, why should we care who offed Phantom?” Johnny 13 sneered, various sounds of agreement coming from others.

Finally - a relevant question. They all had a stake in this. Skulker simply needed to point it out.

“How was your last date with Kitty?” Skulker drawled lazily, confusing both the biker and his girlfriend.

“What’s that got anything to do with it?” Johnny asked.

“Went rather well I think,” Skulker noted as he thought back. “Walk through the park, dine and dash at that Thai place, daredevil stunts after dark, and a fight with the whelp to top it all off.”

“Oi! You spying on me and Kitty?!” Johnny darted up angrily, his shadow solidifying menacingly over his shoulder while Kitty looked like she was about to use her power on him.

Skulker gave a disappointed glare. “Don’t flatter yourself. I was observing Phantom. Observing you was completely incidental. Now, how do you think your next date will go without any roads to bike on? Nowhere to get dinner? The only thrill being running away from ghost eating plants?”

He spun towards The Box Ghost and the Lunch Lady before Johnny could respond. “No more boxes, everything square and cardboard will rot and decay. No more kids eating at the cafeteria.”

Youngblood. “No more fun and games besides the people here in the ghost zone, and if we were satisfied with that we wouldn’t be trying to get into the physical world, would we?”

He raised an eye at Technus. “And I’m sure -“

“Bah! Do not attempt to condescend to the Great Technus! I am uncondescendable! Reaching your conclusion is simple for one such as I.” The technology ghost scowled, though it was clear Skulker’s words had finally made it through.

“Undergrowth doesn’t desire to rule the world. He wishes to conquer it by destroying all of humanity. Worse, he’s actually strong enough to do so,” Skulker looked at every ghost there. “I’m not proposing we help Phantom. I’m proposing we get Phantom to help us. “

A ghost felt a constant urge to fulfill their obsession. The inability to do so felt like an itch in the back of their mind. But so long as they made plans to fulfill it, they were good. However, if it became impossible for them to do so, it could positively ruin the ghost.

Insanity was actually one of the better options.

To rule the world was one thing, to destroy it another. Too many ghosts had obsessions connected with humanity. If humanity was killed off, a large portion of the Ghost Zone would go insane.

That wasn’t even taking into account the connection between the physical world and the ghost zone. He had no idea what that connection would do, but that much death would undoubtedly have negative connotations.

It was a bit of a risk, poking at everybody’s obsession like that. Pointing out their potential inability to fulfill them. But it worked.

“Ok, fine, all that explains why we should be worried.” Johnny grumbled reluctantly. “But you skipped an important point! Why do we have to help Phantom? If this Undergrowth is that big a deal, let’s go and beat him up, pure and simple.”

“Because we’d lose.” Skulker answered back while bringing up his hand and bringing up a holographic image.

“This is Undergrowth. The plant ghost.” He introduced. “Current age is unknown, but Fright Knight claims to have known him during Pariah Dark’s reign, and even he is unaware of Undergrowth’s age.”

Skulker had to prevent a grumble at everybody’s look of surprise at his knowledge. Did nobody understand when he said he was the Ghost Zones best Hunter? Or did they think he was joking? Of course he looked up all he could on the top predators in the area!

The hologram changed images, showing a large ball of clumped up plants.

“Much like Vortex, Undergrowth could be classified as a primordial force of nature. His ‘body’ is the entirety of the plants he summons. When he needs to speak to somebody, he can form a torso, head, and arms from the main body. This detail is important, as attacking the ‘head’ is no more effective than any other part of the plants. He can’t duplicate, so much as create another head and torso from the body. Right now, we know he has taken over Amity Park. With the knowledge that the plants are indeed Undergrowth, this means that as of right now Undergrowth is the size of a city!”

Everybody blanched at that information, and Skulker was grateful to see that they understood the implications of this.

“Ok, let me rephrase Johnny’s question,” Kitty finally spoke up from Johnny’s side with a slightly panicked look on her face. “What in the name of the ancients makes you think we can beat this thing even with Phantom’s help?!”

“Excellent question.” Skulker nodded calmly. “Undergrowth has a few known weaknesses. The largest one being that he is unusually dependent on the nutrients in the soil to sustain him. Every plant he grows, every wound he regenerates, uses up those nutrients. Cause enough damage, and he’ll run out of nutrients eventually and fall into a hibernation state.”

That’s what happened last time according to his sources. The Desolate Sea had apparently been a pretty big forest.

“His dependency on the earth affects his powers.” Skulker continued, “he can’t turn intangible for instance, since that would cut him off from the earth. Nor can he fly. However, it should be remembered that Undergrowth has been around long enough to have thought of defenses to counter this flaw.”

Skulker rubbed his chin thoughtfully. “Fire causes more damage.” He continued, “as will ice. Honestly, even with Phantom it won't be an easy fight. But somebody with Phantom’s strength with an ice core?” He bared his teeth. “Our odds become much better.”

“A decent brief,” Walker admitted, looking at Skulker with narrowed eyes, “but how did you find out that Undergrowth was attacking to begin with? Not even my patrols have come across anything odd. It wasn’t the boy - you said he was unconscious due to his core problems.”

“That’s where we’re in luck.” Skulker acknowledged the Warden's question. “Undergrowth’s abilities revolve around plant control. Not human control. However, he seems to be trying to branch out.”

With another gesture, Skulker brought up a hologram of Sam. “I assume everybody is aware of who Samantha Manson is?”

To his surprise, it was Youngblood spoke up. “Yeah, she’s the girl that wants to get Phantom cooties.” The young ghost then mimed gagging.

The surrounding ghost’s had to muffle their chuckling, and Skulker had to acknowledge that, technically, Youngblood wasn’t wrong.

“Yes, well, it seems that Undergrowth had attempted to brainwash her.” Skulker scoffed. “And failed. She’s loyal to Undergrowth alright… But also to Phantom. She tricked Undergrowth into thinking Danny’s dead, and then hid him. The whelpette has deluded herself into thinking that Phantom will join her once he’s healed. The moment fighting begins, she’ll undoubtedly be against us. But for now, so long as we declare ourselves ‘not against Undergrowth’ and are willing to help Phantom, she’ll show us where the whelp is. I have her at Ember’s place now until we’re ready.”

“Aaaaand how exactly can we help Phantom?” Kitty asked curiously. “Sure, we can talk about how we use our cores, but I don’t know anybody with an ice core.”

“That’s not true,” Skulker refuted, unable to withhold a grimace. “We all know one ghost with an ice core powerful enough to channel.”

Somebody knocked on the door, drawing everybody’s attention.

“Hello?” Came a forlorn voice, “Is there any friends in there? The letter said to come here for a friend…”

Everybody’s expression turned to varying degrees of horror.

“Him?!”

“Batten up the hatches!”

“You can’t expect -“

“Enough!” Skulker cut everybody off with a glare as he walked towards the door. “He is the only ghost we know that has an ice core and can use it reasonably well. The rest of us can try to teach him about cores in general, but we need an ice user.”

“Uh, I’ll go help Ember distract that Sam girl!” Kitty volunteered quickly.

“Hey yeah, I’ll come -“

“Nope! Sorry Johnny, we need some girl time, have fun bye!”

Skulker rolled his eyes at the grumbling and opened the door to see Klemper.

“Oh, hello.” Klemper greeted, “will you be my friend?”

Skulker sighed internally. The sacrifices he made…. “Yes Klemper.” He resigned himself. “We will be your friends - ooof!”

He was thrown backwards as Klemper got him in a huge hug, and Skulker growled.

Phantom better appreciate this…

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