The Origin of Danny Phantom
Chapter 5: All of my children
It has been a week or two since Emse had met the notorious Clockwork. Honestly, she had stopped to keep track of the days in this ghostly realm. The young queen was strolling in the hallways of the castle. Today was another boring day. Her routine was waking up, eating, then spending most of the day in her chamber either reading or writing her diary. Later that day, Pariah would send someone to her to join him for dinner. Sometimes, they talk which at first was awkward but full of small talk. Esme was not a fan of small talks. She was into deep conversations, but Pariah was a ghost of few words. It drove her crazy because she gave her words that he will get a second chance.
The queen doesn't understand why she is trying when he was the one who begged her forgiveness. This had made her mood sour for a while. Right behind her, her close friend and handmaiden, Dora was walking to keep up with the queen. The human beauty felt her stomach growling. She placed her hand on her stomach.
"Dora, do you know where the kitchen is? The baby and I are craving a midday snack." The dark haired young woman glanced at the female ghost.
"Oh your majesty, I can go get snacks for you while you wait at the garden to relax and enjoy the outdoor view." The dragon ghost offered.
"Nonsense, I don't mind walking more. I need to exercise anyway for both of our health." Esmeralda was rubbing her small forming baby bump as she referred to her and the unborn child.
"But I don't want you to get exhausted. The healer said you must be cautious since nobody knows if the heir will cause you harm or your human body won't be able to keep the heir to full term." Dora was concerned for her friend as the pregnancy became overwhelming. Some days, Emse would throw up all day and pass out from not being able to hold down her meals.
One time, her friend was so ill that she passed out while reading peacefully in the library. Luckily, Fright Knight was there to catched her and flew to the infirmary wing. It was not long for the king to barge in with a heavy aura. His expression looked like he was ready to tear out whoever caused his precious queen harm. This was the first Dora ever saw the king looking fearful to see his mate unconscious. It was a surprising but foregin look to see the king like this. Thank goodness, Fright Knight was able to calm him down before he killed the physician who was in fear seeing the king in his monstrous form.
Since then, King Pariah made sure his queen was confined in her chamber. Esmeralda on the other hand was not too pleased. Once she felt well, the queen marched to his study room while some guards had pleaded with their queen to go back to her chamber for her sake. Of course, the human woman was not having it. She glared at her husband and shouted at him for daring locking her up in her chamber. The king at first was calm trying to explain his reasons. Esemerlda was scolding him that she's not some fragile doll to be kept in a confined place or it would drive her mind into insanity. She kept going until the king lost his patience and yelled at her. Both were too stubborn back down. They even told everyone to leave the study which they all flew away. Soon the shouting match became silent. For a second, Dora had thought the King had killed the queen and rushed to the studyroom before opening the door, she heard moans and whimpers until it became erotic. Dora blushed when she figured out what's happening. She let the royal couple have alone time and went to do her chores.
The queen's mood was up and down which drove Pariah Dark crazy. He tried to be a "good" husband but like his mate; his mood was sour until they made up by the end of the day. Today Esmeralda was feeling happy and her appetite was returning. The physician was pleased this pregnancy became stable that the king finally lifted her confinement. Now, both the queen and the handmaiden reached near the garden.
"I know I know, but I've finally been lifted from confinement. The only thing it exhausted me was having a shouting battle with Pariah constantly." She chuckled.
"Are you sure it's not just the countless fornicating with the king?" Dora said with a playful tone. Esme stopped to turn her face towards her friend. Her face was blushing from Dora's comment. This was the first time she heard her sweet innocent friend say anything provocative.
"I- It just happens. The king and I are very stubborn to back down and most of the time it led to releasing our frustration." The queen still blushed while explaining her reasons.
"I noticed." She giggled. "Very well, but if you become tired; please let me know and we can go to the resting hall near here to have your meal brought there." Dora said.
"Fine, I'll let you know if I need a break from walking." Esme said in defeat.
Dora nodded in satisfaction. Both women walked towards the kitchen. It was a bit longer than the queen had expected. She made it to the kitchen without being exhausted. When they had entered the royal kitchen, the ghost staff stopped to instantly bow to the queen. Esme gestured her hand to let them go back to their work. The head cook approached the two ladies.
"Your majesty and lady Dora, what a pleasure to meet you both. What can I do for you?" The head cook said with an ecstatic smile.
"Head Cook Ronald, I heard you are responsible for making my meals which taste marvelous by the way. I am here because I'm craving for something spicy but zesty too. Would you mind making a meal like that, please?" The queen said.
The head cook smiles while nodding eagerly. "Yes yes your majesty. I will make it a special request right away." Already he ordered his helpers to start getting the ingredients while the head cook began making the queen's meal. The queen and Dora went to the dining hall to wait for the meal to be ready.
It didn't take as long as Esme had expected. Well, they are ghosts so they're good at speeding up on whatever they do in their daily undead lives. While conversing with Dora, a bowl appeared which startled her for a second. The head cook appeared next to the queen.
"Your Majesty, I present to you my new creation. Chicken and rice with lemon sauce. It also has a hint of green chile pepper and red pepper flasks. Please try it." The chef ghost smiles while waiting for the queen to take her first bite.
Esme grabbed the fork to gather the chicken and rice in one scoop. She leaned closed to the fork to feed herself. While eating, she could taste the flavor of the zesty lemon sauce along with the spices like black pepper, red pepper flasks, and the chile pepper. This dish was so delicious and perfect to satisfy her craving.
"Oh my goodness, Ron, you did it yourself again. I really love this dish." She resumed eating her meal. Dora smiled seeing her queen and friend eating again. Her health was getting better.
"Head cook, His Majesty will handsomely reward you for making the queen happily eat. I shall see to it." Dora praised the cook while the male ghost smiled then bowed to both the ladies.
"Thank you Lady Dorathea and thank you Queen Emseralda. I shall leave you both alone. Have a good day." He vanished from their view.
Esme was enjoying her food until the bowl was empty. It hit the perfect spot. Her tongue is a bit prickling from the spicy ingredients. She loves that feeling after eating something spicy. After the queen ate, both women got up to leave the dining hall and make their way to the halls. The female human realized this particular hall led to the study room of Pariah Dark.
"Dora, I would like to stop by to greet the king then we'll go to the garden." the queen glanced at her handmaiden. Dora nodded. "Of course, your Majesty. I'm sure the king will be pleased to see you."
As both women reached King Pariah's study room, Esme heard a female voice inside the room. She pressed her ear to the door to listen to their conversation. The giggling sound of the stranger made Esmeralda's jealousy arise within her. This was the first time she ever felt jealous of anyone or anything. Usually, the queen knocked the door before entering anywhere to visit her ghost husband; but her hand already twisted the handle to open the door and barged in. Both ghosts stopped their conversation to notice Esme barging in. Pariah observing his wife noticed the way she glared suspiciously at the female ghost in the room.
"My little songbird, you do know the rules of not to barge in without my permission." Pariah glanced at her.
"I'm sorry my love. I just wanted to introduce myself to your guest." Esme said in a sweet tone but deep down she felt irritated.
Across from the queen's view, a female ghost was sitting on a chair. This female ghost looked very beautiful with her glowing fiery red hair, her skin looked flawless. The red haired ghost looks delicate and poses. It made Esme feel insecure since this ghost looked like the perfect queen and bride to Pariah.
The female ghost got up to gracefully curtsy at the human queen. "Your Majesty, it is an honor to finally meet you in person. I'm Lady Ronda of the Western side of the realm."
"Oh, it's a pleasure meeting you, Lady Ronda. I'm curious what made you visit the palace? Official business? An event that I'm not aware of?" Esme was trying not to make it obvious of her jealousy.
"Woman, should you be relaxing? I don't want you to become distressed over unnecessary things." Pariah used his firm tone to make sure his queen didn't overstep the line.
Esme frowned annoyingly at Pariah. "I have been relaxing all day. Besides, I came here to spend time with you. Usually it pleases you when I stop by to spend time with you."
"Yes, I'm well aware but I was having an important discussion with Lady Ronda about her new temporary role until you give birth and recover." Pariah said. The queen was curious what Lady Ronda's role has to do with her.
"May I ask what this temporary role she will do?" Emse now glances at both her king and Lady Ronda.
"She will take over your duties as queen until you give birth to my heir." He said. Pariah awaits for his queen's reaction.
Emse was quiet. She was not happy that some woman would take over her duties. Yes, she may not like being queen, but seeing how Lady Ronda was being too comfortable with her husband; the queen felt paranoid of the true intentions of the red haired noblewoman ghost.
"I see. I appreciate your concerns over my well being but I am still capable of handling my duties as queen and your wife." With no shame, Emse's tone was seductive to show the other ghost that she is Pariah's only queen and wife. What's going on with her lately? She was feeling jealous and possessive. This wasn't her. Could it be the hormones or their bond as mates? She will ask these questions to Dora later.
"My little songbird put your pride aside for once. I already made my decision. You will only focus on your health and make sure you deliver my heir safe and sound." Pariah said.
Esme was feeling bubbles of rage from his comment. Why all the sudden he's talking to her like how they were from day one? He can be such an asshole. She will not let him get near her when he gets urges. Before she was about to say something, Pariah spoke first.
"Lady Ronda, you are dismissed. A servant will attend to your needs and your role right away." He looked at the beautiful ghost. Lady Ronda nodded then curtsy at both of them. Once she left, it's just both couples.
"Before you let out one of your childish taturms, you will do as I command you. Do you understand, Esmeralda?" Pariah wasn't in the mood to deal with her outbursts. It seems she had forgotten her place. The only reason he had not done anything was because she was carrying his unborn heir and due to her health.
"And I have told you before, restricting me is not a good idea. Do you know how frustrating it was being confined in my room? I felt like a prisoner! The matter of fact, I have been your prisoner for god knows how long! A year? Months? The one thing I'm asking you not to take my responsibilities as the queen of the realm. Pariah, I'm begging you. I need to be occupied or I might go fucking crazy." Esme ranted.
Pariah sighed in defeat. He doesn't know how a mere fragile human like Esme had him wrapped around her finger. "My queen, this is just temporary for your sake. I don't want anything bad to happen to you. Since you insisted on having yourself occupied, I will let you resume your responsibilities but only until you get closer to full term. Does that sound fair?"
Esme finally cooled down from her ranting. She nodded as agreeing the terms her king said. "Alright, I can agree to that. What about Lady Ronda?"
"I will have you mentor her until when you are bed rested." Pariah said.
"Ok, I guess she can hang out with me so she can learn my duties." The queen walked towards the ghost king. Her arms wrapped around his neck. Pariah let her get comfortable to sit on his lap.
"You can be too much sometimes." His neon green eyes glanced at her.
"You should have thought about that when you snatched me from my world." Esme smirked.
Pariah places his hand on her thigh while rubbing to give a soothing feeling for Esme. "It's worth it." He smirked.
"So did you and Lady Ronda were old flames or something?" The green eyed woman spoke bluntly.
Pariah Dark glanced at her then chuckled. "Lady Ronda? No, my dearest. We're not old flames. She's one of my vassals."
"Oh ok that's good." Esme felt relieved. If they were lovers, then she would have to make sure Pariah doesn't do any funny business behind her back.
"My little songbird, I noticed you were jealous when we were having an informal conversation." He grinned when his human mate started to blush from being embarrassed from getting jealous over nothing.
"I- don't know what you mean, Pariah." She scoffed while covering her flushed face with her hands.
"You can call me Erik. It's my human name before I died and joined this realm." He said. Ghosts rarely let anyone be called by their true name. If they reveal their human name then it shows they have trust and worth in anyone who they cared about. Emse understands how this is a big deal to the ghosts. Dora had taught her the customs of the ghost realm and their culture. Even though she already knew his real name from the diary, it still made her heart beat fast. He basically expressed his feelings on a sentimental level.
For months, they had a push and pull dynamic. It began with nothing more than terror and being submitted to his will. She had hated him for alluring her into this world, being trapped and stripped of her dignity and virtues. Now Esme is carrying his child. Slowly Pariah or Erik started to show his concerns and affection towards her. After being humiliated in front of the court, it was the turning point for Erik to realize he pushed her limits. He remembered how broken she had looked. He had tried to provoke her fiery personality, but she was zoned out. Pariah had never felt remorse in his ghostly life until he met his little songbird. When he was still trapped in his tomb, Pariah heard a lovely voice. For some strange reason, it gave him enough fuel to wake up from his slumber and allure her to open the tomb.
How did a monstrous tyrant capable of falling for a mere fragile human like Esmeralda? Maybe Fate decided to grant this opportunity for him to grow compassion again. For centuries, hatred had poisoned his soul from the betrayal he endured in his human life. The Ghost King will not let his second chance slip again. If anyone harms his mate, he'll bring both realms into hell.
Esmeralda is his source of humanity.
"Alright, Erik." The way her tongue rolled his name; it sounded perfect. She smiled at him as her hands cupped his cold face. He leaned towards her to kiss her warm lips.
"I love you." Once they break off their tender kiss, Esme breaks the silence by confessing her feelings.
Erik looked into her emerald eyes. His ghostly fingers caressing her dark hair. He let those three words sink in his mind. "I love you as well, my Emserlda."
Esme knew he cared deeply for her but to hear him saying 'I love you' back; it confirmed to her that his feelings are mutual. Most of the hour, they were in the same position. While Pariah doing paperwork, Esme was snuggling on his lap and watched him handling decrees to maintain order in this realm. What Esme had learned for weeks about Erik aka Pariah was that he has a bright mind in diplomacy. The young queen understood how this giant ghost used to be a prodigy king during the Viking era.
Later that day, Esme was already showing the ropes around the castle to Lady Ronda. So far, the female noblewoman was a quick learner. The queen had shown all that required her attention as the queen. Lady Ronda was what the court would say "the proper queen-like" woman. She's obedient, demure, and virtuous. Of course, the gossipers of the court praised happily in front of Esme. It had been pissong her off. Most of the court still see her as the harlot who stole the queen and wife titles from Lady Ronda. Apparently, there was a rumor Lady Ronda was betrothed to King Pariah. Since Dora was discarded for being too weak, Lady Ronda's father; Lord Harold offered his daughter to the king to be the queen. Before Pariah was trapped in the tomb, Pariah agreed. When he had awakened from his slumber and reconquered his realm, his agreement had been broken by a mere human. This became a scandal in the realm.
Both father and daughter were humiliated when Pariah made his toy as his queen consort. Now she was carrying a halfa offspring. It had shook the Ghost realm that a half ghost was conceived. It was impossible to have an offspring being born by a human and ghost. Others whispered this heir will be the doom of their existence and few believed it's a good omen. What Esme knows from Clockwork was her unborn son will be a savior for both humans and ghosts. Hopefully, this little one will bring change to both worlds. God worked in mysterious ways. At this moment, the queen will bite her tongue from trying not to confront these shameful gossipers.
"Queen Esmeralda, is there anything else I need to learn?" Lady Ronda's soft tone disrupted her thoughts.
"No, I think that's all I know. Enjoy the rest of your free day, You're dismissed." Esme said.
Lady Ronda nodded then curtsy to the queen and left from Esme's sight. Phew, finally she has left. Sometimes in her guts tells her, she needs to be cautious around this noblewoman. Her intuitions had never failed her. Probably it's because she's gifted. Long ago she had heard rumors about her father's side of the family being from a long line of Eastern European witch coven. At first, Esmeralda scoffed and ignored these false rumors until one day, she had visited her father's family in Romania during summer vacation. Her paternal grandmother had broken the news that the false rumors were true. Esme was in disbelief and denied what her grandmother said. She got up and blindly ran out the house until she was in the middle of the forest. Her grandmother lived in an isolated home by the entrance of the famous Romanian forest, the Hoia Baciu Forest. Obviously, it made sense why her grandma had never wanted to leave her home to live with her uncles and aunts in the city of Cluj-Napoca.
On that day, it was dark when she had reached the clearing of the forest. Her memories were still fresh. All she saw was pitch darkness. The air was much cooler for a summer day. Slowly fear had creeped in as goosebumps appeared on her body. She could sense the atmosphere became heavy with unknown energies. In her sight, there were three blue light ball shapes floating up in the air. Her eyes widened from seeing this phenomenon. The blue light orbs hovered towards and surrounded her. Esme had felt trapped while the orbs spun around her. This same energy had suffocated her to where she chanted in an estranged language she had always heard from her grandmother. Suddenly, blue fire appeared as it traveled on the ground to shape into a sacred geometric shape. All she heard was screeching sounds from the orbs as it got vanquished. Esme was surprised by what she was capable of doing. Of course, the young teen didn't hesitate to run back to the cottage. When she got back safely, her grandma was already waiting on the front porch. The elder woman congratulated her in awakening her magic. Since then, both made an agreement only to practice to not be in discontrol of her magic. Esme had never used her magic since her type of element is fire. Fire magic can be used both domestically and physically. Domestically, it can be used to heal or warm your body or others, but physically it can be used in battles to destroy, vanquish or purify.
The only downside to magic was her mother will never find out because she will send Emse to an exorcist to save her soul. That's one of the cons she dislikes the darkside of religions. People don't understand or want to understand things. It's hard to grasp it like witches and magic or any supernatural. Like humans, there's good and bad creatures. Life is basically grey. Many don't like to see grey. Esme still had a hard time accepting her heritage as a witch. Her fear was to renounce her faith, but her grandmother had laughed when Esme claimed she would not become a witch and denounced to faith. Her grandmother explained there's no need to. It's good to have faith to keep herself in line and balance God and Magick. In their coven, they believed God had made certain people different by giving them magic to keep the peace of the supernatural and the human worlds. They are the bridge of these being a pop idol, she didn;t time to practice magic or visit the family's coven.
Now, she's stuck in the Ghost Realm which it's one of the many realms that exist in the cosmos universe. She had spent time in the castle's library reading how the ectoplasm in the core is where the ghosts main power inhabited. Without it, they will cease to exist. This explained why Erik gave her the glowing pendant necklace to give some energy to her unborn son and protect her if she's in danger. Esme had learned so much information about ghosts being hostile towards witches because they can vanquish ghosts if the ghosts crossed the line in harming humans.
Secretly, Esme had been practicing her magic to defend herself and her unborn child. What would Erik do if he found out she's a witch? The young queen had wanted to tell him the truth, but she's scared of the consequence. The Ghost Realm already despise her. Imagine they know the truth of having a witch as their queen. All hell will break loose. Esme started to walk to the garden alone. The garden was her sacred place to practice magic. Most of the time, she practiced in her chamber after Dora from preparing her for bedtime.
The queen went to an isolated area of the garden where so many ghostly plants surrounded her. Esme took a deep breath then exhaled. On her palm hands, a small blue fire ignited. Slowly, the fire grew bigger. Esme had been practicing fire magic without using chanting spells. It's a hard level of magic but the dark haired queen was capable of performing it with patience.
When the fire was big enough, she gently multiplied into twos until six small fires surrounded her. The former musician was in her element as she now mediated.
"Just as I expected, you're a witch?" A familiar ghost interrupted her mediation with her magic. She quickly stopped and the blue fires disappeared. Her eyes glanced at Fright Knight.
"I- I can explain...please Fright don't tell anyone. Please." She was scared the truth of her being a witch could jeopardize her life along with her unborn son.
Fright Knight shook his head. "I won't tell a soul, my queen. Even though you are a witch, I know deep down you're not like those stuck up witches believing the world is in their hands. As your friend and humble servant, I implore you to be careful practicing magic. You got lucky I caught you instead of some ghost."
Esme sighed and looked around to make sure no one was in the garden beside her and her knight friend. "Alright, I'll try to be careful. I don't know where to practice my magic without getting caught red handed?"
"I suggest you could try to convince the king to let you visit the human realm. You are much safer to practice." Fright Knight said.
"Do you really think Pariah will causally agree to let me go visit my home? Ever since my pregnancy, he had been overprotective. Sometimes, he would punish whoever made me uncomfortable. It does get exhausting to persuade him not to punish the servants if they do something wrong? And he has the nerve to tell me I can be too much to handle. Tch." Esme said annoyingly.
"I'll offer myself to guard you while you go visit your home to see your loved one." He continued.
"I'll try to talk to him during dinner. Thank you, Fright for keeping this secret and being a good friend." She gave the knight ghost a warm smile.
"Of course, my queen. Anything for you." He whispered but Esme could hear his words.
The human queen smiled sincerely. "Are you occupied for a stroll through the garden?"
"For you, I shall make time to accompany you on a stroll through the garden." Fright Knight chuckled then started walking alongside with her. They stepped on the glowing pathway bricks.
"So Fright, what's your opinion on Lady Ronda?" Esme said keeping up with her friend.
"Lady Ronda? She's known to have great beauty in all of Ghost Realm until you have arrived. I hope I'm not being bold but why are you interested in Lady Ronda?" The knight ghost was curious about her question.
"I met her not long ago in Pariah's study room. They were having a light hearted conversation. She seems quiet and reverse but looks docile which many men would like to have in a woman. I know there's gossip of how she was supposed to be the rightful queen consort for King Pariah Dark. I know for a fact the court sees me as a weakling human who's good for being the king's plaything and not stealing a proper ghost woman like Lady Ronda." As she talked about the rumors that were spreading around the castle, it made her feel sad. Esme knew she did belong here. Even though it was against her will, somehow she had tried to fit in and took the role as queen seriously to earn their validation.
Fright Knight frowned from her choosing words of how these rumors were making her upset. If he had a saying, Fright would go and silence anyone who dared to upset his queen. The court doesn't give Esme a chance. In his opinion, Esmeralda is suitable as queen. To him, she's empathic but assertive when needed. It's strange how only the commoners adore her but the nobles or higher ups despise her. After all, Lady Ronda is the daughter of Lord Harold who is a very important council member to King Pariah and the third influential figure in the Ghost Realm. Another reason Esme is perfect as queen is because Pariah will listen or consider her opinion whenever speaks about important matters. Lady Ronda would just be a queen who will struggle to connect with the commoners and only obeys without questions.
"Esme, the rumors were true. Long ago the king was betrothed to Lady Ronda due to her father's influence. The court is full of pompous noble ghosts who are lacking empathy besides themselves. Lady Ronda is only good for raising her father's status and showering her beauty to the court. You on the other hand had made a difference. The noble have not realized yet. Your wisdom had helped the king to slowly shape the realm back to the Golden Age. The common ghosts adore you because you hear their voices and represent them when no one else haven't. I believe in you with your cunningness, you will have the court be on your side in time. For a human, you showed most of the realm that despising you being human doesn't stop you to help others. That's something I admire about you. You are one of a kind. I'm sure in time when they know the truth of you being a witch, they will be grateful to have a queen who helps and sympathizes when compassion was needed especially during the war." Esme blushed from his praise. His speech made her mood brighten again.
"You're a good friend. Thank you, Fright Knight and you're right. I have made contributions to this realm. I don't like seeing unfairness. I just need to keep trying to have the court on my side." She said with determination.
"Exactly, you're an intelligent woman. His Majesty had made the right choice to pick you as his mate and queen. His and your heir will be a great ruler one day for having a mother like you in its halfa life." He continued.
The queen nodded. "This little one will bring life to this place. Isn't that right, Daniel?" She whispered while rubbing her small baby bump.
"The heir has a name alright?" Fright Knight said.
"Yes, I have a feeling it's going to be a boy. Let's just say it's a mother's intuition. The truth was Clockwork had told her when he met her in the chamber. Since the gender was revealed, she had thought of a name but decided to name her son after her late father.
"King Pariah will be ecstatic to know you will give him a male heir." The knight ghost said.
"Yes, that's true." She chuckled.
"You haven't told him yet?" His hollow pitch black eyes glanced at her.
"No, I want to wait until I find an excuse to go see a human doctor to check the gender of my child. In case, Pariah doesn't become suspicious of how I knew the gender." She said.
"Oh it's because of Clockwork? The king has animosity towards Clockwork." Fright Knight said. Both human and ghost continued walking on the green glowing brick pathway.
"Clockwork had told me the war was getting traumatic for the realm. So he asked me to convince Pariah to end the war for the sake of the realm." Esme sighed remembering how the conversation was intense until finally she was able to persuade him.
"Ah so it was Clockwork's words planted in your head." Fright Knight said.
"Look Fright, I did it because the last war was becoming pointless and many people were suffering. I know they're ghosts but they feel pain just as much as a living being like me can feel pain." Her tone was a bit firm. She knew Fright Knight also disliked Clockwork.
"I just want you to be careful, that's all. He can see the future, past, and present. With that kind of power, he could use it against anyone." He was worried for her. Since Clockwork had interest in her for whatever reasons they were.
"Don't worry. I am careful enough to not befriend anyone with bad intentions." She gave him assurance so Fright Knight would not worry too much.
"Very well, my queen." He nodded and let go of that subject. "I think I have a theory why you're able to conceive an offspring with King Pariah." He changed to a different topic.
Her head jerked a bit as this caught her interest. "Oh, another theory? Alright, let's hear your new theory." She giggled. Ever since she found out of the pregnancy, Fright Knight had been coming up with theories on how a human was able to conceive with a ghost like the king. So far, none of the theories he mentioned made sense but it was better to have some idea than nothing.
"This theory will make sense since you have witch blood. I believe both you and the king were able to because your magic somehow let his ectoplasma fertilize in your womb and gave enough energy for a halfa to exist." Esme stopped for a moment to take it in on his new theory.
This would make sense. Magic and Ecto have high concentration of energy. The queen had read many books to try to find answers if there were hybrid cases between human and ghost. All it mentioned was unlikely to happen as ghosts are very transparent and hollow to unable to have a sexual relation with a human. Unless you're a succubus which they're demons not ghosts, are able to have a sexual relation with a human. The only thing ghosts are able to get physical with a human is when they possess their body. A powerful ghost will be able to physically harm a human from gathering enough ecto energy.
Since she's part witch, her magic was very responsive with Pariah's ecto. Usually when a ghost touches or is in the presence of a witch or warlock, they get irritated and try to attack them berserkly. With the right chanting spell, the ghost was either vanquished or drained from their energy and vanished to recover. Maybe it was never attempted because a ghost and a witch had never been together. Her unborn son is the first ever hybrid to ever exist by birth. Esme had recently heard in the human realm there was an adult Halfa out there. What she knew so far, this adult Halfa had happened accidentally by an experiment that went wrong with his friends. If a human made contact with an ectoplasm, they would get sick but eventually will wear off from their system. The human body will reject the ecto. In this special case, it somehow mutated into the DNA. The anatomy of a human's body is very unique but mysterious.
"I see. That would be a compelling theory." She had said.
"When I felt your magic, it was strong and powerful. Both a powerful witch and ghost had created a powerful being. Maybe this offspring will be the bridge of witches and ghosts." Fright Knight said.
"Or both sides will hate him for being hybrid. It's best the realms will know him as half human and half ghost for his protection." Esme understood the reality of birthing a hybrid. Any being will be in fear because they don't understand something that is considered a miracle.
"I will not let anyone harm the crowned prince. I swear my loyalty to King Pariah, you, and your descendants. As a knight, it's my duty to serve and protect the House of Dark." He said his declaration.
"If anything happens, promise me you will protect my child or children. I trust you and Dora with my child if something happens to me or Pariah. If it's a must, I want you to take him to my grandmother's home in Transylvania. I know in my heart no matter what my child is, she will raise him and protect him." Esme gave a pleading look at Fright Knight who was reluctant at first.
"My queen. Please don't speak like that. Nothing will happen to you or your children. King Pariah is one of the powerful ghosts who will protect you as you're his mate. I will gladly protect you because you're the queen, my dearest friend, and the woman that I love…" His eyes may be pitch blackand hollow but they are soft when it comes to Esme.
Esme held her breath. She knew he had fallen for her and had told him in the past she doesn't see him that way. It's a pity for her to know she doesn't respond to his feelings. He deserves someone who will cherish and love him. Her heart belonged to Pariah who sometimes can be a jerk.
"Fright Knight...you know how-" She was interrupted.
"I'm aware, but even though your heart belongs to the king which is best you do. I don't want to put you in a position that will harm or kill you. I am just informing you that I will do anything because of my love for you." He continued passionately.
All the queen could do was nod. It breaks her heart to know he will do anything for her. The guilt kills her. Slowly a small smile formed from her lips. "The only love I can give is a sibling-love. I know it's not the love you want from me but you really are important to me. You, Dora, my unborn child, Pariah, my mother, grandma, and the coven are my family. I really do hope you find someone who loves you because you deserve that love." She comforted him.
The knightly ghost didn't say much but nodded his head.
"I know...I know." He whispered.
After having a conservation while strolling through the garden with Fright Knight, Esme had dinner with Pariah. Once dinner was over, the queen was exhausted and headed back to her chamber. This time she had asked Dora to let her get ready to go to bed alone. She wanted to have some alone time. Practicing magic had exhausted her. Probably her unborn child was taking in some of her magic to have energy. The human got ready for bed. When she was done, Esme was startled by two figures in her chamber.
"Oh my god! Clockwork, what have I told you not to appear in my chamber?" She hissed at him from not making a scream and alert the Thralls.
Esme finally took a good look at the other figure who's with Clockwork. He had snowy hair, his eyes were green like neon. His skin tone was neutral undertone like warm ivory or sand which it's odd for a ghost's skin tone. He looks around in his mid teens or he might be centuries old who knows.
"My apologies, Esme. I'm here because of this child." He glanced at the boy.
"Clockwork, why did you take me here? You said, ``You'll take me to see my birth parents?" The ghost boy was confused.
"Danny, I have taken you to meet one of them. This young lady is Esmeralda Rozalina Iliescu, queen consort of Pariah Dark and your birth mother." Clockwork made an introduction for her.
Esme gasped to realize this boy is her yet to be born son, Daniel. She was in shock seeing how her son was standing there in front of her. He's probably from the future. The young queen was not the only one who's shock. Danny was silent but his expression looked like he's having millions of questions forming in his mind.
"D-Daniel? My little one? I can't believe it. You've grown to be handsome like my late father." Her eyes were getting watery from having the opportunity to meet her son from the future.
"Wait just a second?! You're my birth mother? But you...you're Pariah's mate? Please don't tell me Pariah is my birth father? What the hell is this? Some Star Wars bullcrap?" Danny was upset while processing in finally meeting his birth mother.
Esme frowned seeing her own son taking in the shocking revelation. She took a deep breath to let her mind clear before speaking.
"Mijo, I don't know what will happen to you in the future and it seems I nor your father weren't able to raise you…" She was trying to fight her tears away. Esme had wondered what had her baby gone through in life without her to guide and love him. It doesn't take a genius to know her son grew up without knowing who she or Erik is to him.
Danny glared at the woman who is his birth mother. This was too much for him. What's worse, Clockwork knew who his birth parents were. Ever since he found out about being adopted, his life took a turn. He had been distant to his friends. He couldn't focus on fighting off ghosts to protect Amity Park.
"Why? Why did you give me up? Is it because you gave birth to a-" Danny was interrupted by Esme.
"No. Whatever you may believe. It's not true. I don't know what the future me gave you away, but it's probably a good reason for your sake. Please trust me that I love you. You are my heart that beats. You're the reason why I had to be strong to endure here. If I didn't have you, I would be stuck here miserable as a ghost. I'm so sorry you have to go through a big lie all your life but it's worth it. I prefer you to be alive and live as normal as possible, rather than being here where there's worst beings hunt you down because of your Pariah's son and my son." Her hands gently cupped the half ghost's cheeks. They were warmer than a ghost's cold cheeks.
"What do I tell Dani about the truth?" Danny was sobbing when he felt his mother's comfort embracing him. He had always received his mother's love through Maddy. He was grateful and lucky to have parents who loved him unconditionally., but receiving his birth mother's love that's something he had not expected. It felt nice. He had believed his parents abandoned him or worse this woman gave him up because he was born through a non consensual act from Pariah. He knew enough about Pariah Dark who's King of the Ghosts that Danny had defeated him and put the ghost king back in his tomb. It baffled Danny that Pariah is his father. He and Dani are the children of a ghost and a human. This would shake the science community and the ghost hunters like his adopted parents and the GIW men.
"Who is Dani?" Emse said.
"She's your daughter, Emse. Speaking of Dani, I'll be back. I'll let you two have your moments." Clockwork speak before Danny and Esme say anything else, the Master Of Time disappears.
"I'm going to have another child?" The young queen said while looking at her little boy. He may not be little but to her he will always be little.
Danny nodded to confirm her question. "Yeah, we found out not too long ago, but Dani most of her life had grown up alone. I feel guilty because if I knew the truth sooner maybe I would have acknowledged her as my little sister and taken her to protect her from people like Fruitloop Vlad Plasmius."
"My babies...maybe this time I can change how both of you will grow up. I will promise you and your sister that I will be there for the two of you. Your father...he will protect-" She saw the way Danny was shaking his head.
"No, Pariah will not protect me or Dani. If he didn't recognize me the first time what makes you think he will now. Besides, the future Pariah Dark is locked up in his tomb forever and I will make sure he is locked up." He said stubbornly.
"Danny, Pariah is not what you think he is. When he found out about my pregnancy, he was happy that the next day a feast was held. Yes, your father can be cruel but he's capable of love. Not many know him well enough like I have." She pleaded with her son.
"I don't know...I just can't believe Pariah Dark is my dad." He whispered.
"I understand, son. This is all new to you." Esme hugged him. She wanted to hug him as much as possible because she won't get an opportunity like this in the future.
"Mom, I'm scared that because I'm pariah's son, my enemies will use my family and friends against me.." He whimpered from thinking the worse when it comes to the people he loved and cared.
"Oh Danny, please don't be scared. I know a coven of witches will protect you, your sister, and the people you care about." She gave him motherly.
"A coven of witches? I don't think witches will protect or help a ghost like me, especially a half ghost." He said.
"Of course they will. The Transylvanian Witch Coven will protect you. Tell them you and your sister are the children of Esmeralda Rozalina Iliescu. If my grandmother is still alive in your time, she will protect you both." She said,
"Wait so you're also a witch too?" Danny said.
"Yes. Honestly, I found out recently. My grandmother had never mentioned it until I accidentally performed magic to protect from paranormal creatures. Besides with you looking like my father, they will have more reasons to have your back." Esme said.
"Alright, I'll try to meet them since they are family." He sighed.
Clockwork appeared just in time but with two more figures. A large man with sinister smile, red glowing eyes, blue pale skin tone with upper flame hair do glanced at his younger counterpart. Danny growled at his future evil self.
"What the hell Clockwork?! Why did you let Dan out of his imprisonment?" Danny was furious at his mentor. Dani was looking at both Dan and Danny awkwardly since this is the first time she met the notorious Dan Phantom.
"Mommy?" Dani gasped when she finally got to meet her mother. The young half ghost flew towards the human and hugged her tightly.
"It's you. It's really you." She said excitedly. At least, she reacted better than Danny had.
Back to Dan and Danny reunion. Dan laughs with his baritone from being amused by Danny's hostility.
"Why hello you too, Danny boy. Did you miss me?" He grinned in teasing his younger self.
"I have one important rule for both of you. You're not allowed to fight each other, especially in front of your mother. To answer your question, Danny. Dan is here because he will stay here temporarily with Esme. Everything's the way it's supposed to be." The Master of time said.
Both counterparts scoffed at Clockwork. Dan glanced at the woman who's basically his biological mother. The little brat as he likes to call her often had mentioned that Danny and her are real siblings, and not related to the Fentons. It finally made sense how his younger counterpart had never felt having common with his parents. It had shocked the sinister ghost about the truth of his birth.
"No! Are you crazy? I don't want him near my mom." Danny glared at Dan.
"Now Danny boy, you have to share mother with me. After all, I am your dark future." Dan's husky tone was calm but entertained by Danny's reaction. Both Dan and Danny began to bicker while Dani, Clockwork, and Esme were not amused of their arguing.
"Can you two stop arguing for once?! We finally have the chance to meet mom and I won't let you two ruin it!" Dani lost her cool and let out a wail which both of them got slammed to the wall.
Dan was impressed the weak girl ghost had managed to use wailing on him to knock him out. Huh? Looks like the brat had finally begun to develop her powers.
"Congratulations Danielle, you have mastered the Wailing." Clockwork smiled.
Danny got up from the impact of the power that Dani caused. "Next time Dani, could you please be careful who you aim at?"
Dani's face flushed embarrassingly. "Sorry, I didn't mean to."
"Impressive, brat. You beat Danny boy earlier from mastering the Wailing." Dan grinned which of course Danny was annoyed towards Dan.
Esme made a coughing sound to remind her children that she's still here. All three glanced at the queen. The atmosphere changed too quickly as all three became serious.
"So, mom. Can we meet dad? Who is our father by the way?" Dani said.
The only one who knew about their real father was Danny as he had already put pieces together. He wasn't happy about Pariah Dark being his real father. He doesn't understand how his human mother fell in love with a tyranny ghost like Pariah. He had fought him before and the ghost king hasn't mentioned or acknowledged him as his son. Does Pariah know he fathered two half ghosts?
Before Esmeralda answered her daughter's question, Danny already spoke the answer. "It's Pariah Dark, King of the Ghost." He mumbled with bitterness.
Dani was confused why Danny disliked their birth father? She hoped her ghost father was not evil. She wanted to meet him to prove to Danny that their father is not evil. On the other hand, Dan was too quiet.
"Why are you two being sour about our birth father?" Dani broke the silence.
"Be a realistic mom. Why of all the ghosts it has to be Pariah Dark? He's worse than my evil counterpart?" Danny said while ignoring Dani's question.
Dan just rolled his eyes. "Well this explains where I got my evil talent from?" The dark ghost grinned.
"It's complicated, that's all I can say. Besides, if I hadn't met him all three of you would haven't existed." Esme was getting tired of explaining to her son.
This was not how she expected to meet her son in the future. At least her daughter was optimistic. She wonders what had Pariah done to him to make him despise him.
"What had Pariah done to you since you have already met him before?" She asked.
"He tried to take over both the ghost realm and Amity Park. He had hurt many people and ghosts. I had to stop him." Danny explained.
"I see…" It's all she can say. Esme was not surprised but had some hope Pariah would have a heart to not try to cause chaos in her world.
Clockwork appeared again. "Time's up. Danny and Dani say your goodbyes to your mother. It's the last time you'll ever meet her. Dan, you will stay with her temporarily. Behave yourself or your existence will cease to exist." The ghost of time glanced at the three of them.
Dani was the first to hug her mother goodbye one last time. At least she had closure of not being Danny's clone. Instead, she's his little sister. Soon he would be the only family she ever has, but Dani wanted to be by her mother's side. Her presence was warm and comforting just like a mother should be. She envied Dan being the one being with her mother.
"Mom, I don't want to go. I want to stay with you. I promise I'll be hidden." Dani cried and begged.
"Oh honey, I would have loved for you to stay with me, but it would be selfish of us to make the timeline changed. I'm glad to meet you, sweetheart. Just promise me to be safe and if you need anything, your brother will be there for you. Right, Daniel?" The queen glanced at Danny.
"Yeah, I will be there for Dani. You don't need to tell me." Danny was being petty. Dani frowned at her brother's attitude. On the other hand, Esme felt a bit hurt by her son's attitude. Alright, having her maternal nature kicking in, she understood what he's going through. Esme pulled away from her daughter gently to finally hug her son. Danny let his mother hug him but didn't reciprocate the affection. After the hug, Clockwork made a portal to have both Dani and Danny leave this timeline.
"By my children. I love you both very much no matter what." Esme gave a motherly smile at them. Dani smiled back and waved goodbye at her.
"Bye mom! I love you too!" Dani said and entered the portal. Danny just once last time glanced back at his mother and fly into the portal without a word.
"I suggest you hide quick Dan. YOur father is about to enter soon." CLockwork said. "I'll see you next time, my queen." Then he disappeared.
Dan scoffed and did as he was advised. "By the way mother, don't let my younger self get to you. He's just a moody teenage brat." Soon, he vanished through the walls.
Pariah Dark opened the door to flow into the room. "Woman, I have called for you. It's been an hour."
Esme sighed. "Sorry, I wasn't feeling well. I was taking a nap."
"My apologies, I must have not realized you weren't well." Pariah felt guilty for losing his temper.
"Since you're here, what do you need me for?" Esme was curious why her husband called for her?
"I believe from you being sick too much; it's best for you to go on vacation. I want you to go see your human family for the time being." Pariah said.
"I'm happy that I can go visit my family, but what's the real reason for all this? I know you well enough Erik. Tell me what's going on?" The queen looked concerned.
"The better you don't know the safer you are." He said vaguely.
Esmeralda was not pleased with his response. "Seriously, do you not trust me enough?! If you want me to go on vacation then tell me what's going on Erik." Her tone was sterned.
The ghost king wanted to shout at her, but tried to be level headed. "You're such a stubborn human. Fine, but there were death threats messages from you. So, it's best for now you go stay with your family in the human realm until it's safe for you to come home."
"I- what? I see...I would have said no, but our child's safety is my priority." Esme had to be reasonable this time. Plus, it would be easier to have Dan around her.
"Good that I do need to argue with you about your and my heir's safety. The unfortunate part is Fright Knight can't accompany you to the human world. I'll send one of my thralls to guard you discreetly." Pariah muttered the last statement.
"It's ok, my love. I already hired someone to guard me in the human world." Esme said that the king was confused and alert. The only reason he didn't want Fright Knight go with his mate to the human world was because he had been suspecting the way his favored knight was being too close to her. It's not appropriate whether they are friends.
"And who is this guard that you hired, my mate?" His tone was a bit firm but curious.
"Dan, come here please." The queen called for her dark counterpart's son from the future.
Dan phases through the wall to meet the king or his birth father. Dan may have heard Pariah Dark but unlike his younger counterpart, he had not met this powerful ghost.
He doesn't know how to act around his father. Everything he had known about his origin was a lie beside his dead parents knowing about him not being their son, but Clockwork had known for his entire existence. How dare that old ghost keep valuable information? If he was about to return to his timeline then he can claim his birthright as the new ruler. Yes, that sounds good. King Dan Phantom, conqueror of both worlds. Oh just imagine the look on Valarie's face when he finally barged back with an army. It would be priceless.
"Yes, m-my queen?" He was so close to calling her mother.
"We're going on a trip and you will guard me for the time being. Is that understood?" She said with her authoritative tone. Dan doesn't know whether to shoot her with ectoplasm or say something. He forgets his mother is a queen and she must play her act.
"Understood. Your Majesty." He said.
"Boy, if I see any mistake that puts my mate and my heir in danger, I will rip your core and watch your life vanish." Pariah threatens Dan.
Dan let out a growl but Esme stopped him before it escalated. "My love, I think it's unnecessary to tell my guard. He knows the consequences. Now, leave both of you. A woman needs time to pack up. Dora, I need you please."
Esme breathes when both ghosts step back from each other. Finally, Pariah flows to the door. "Let me know when you are finished so I will escort you out of the castle."
"I will." She answered and watched him leave her room.
"Why did you stop me? I could have shown him who's the true powerful one." Dan scoffed.
"Son, just let it go. You and your father are so alike." She sighed while looking at her closet.
"I am not like-" Dan said.
"You are. It's pointless to deny it." She pointed it out.
"Now, help me out, this pregnancy is killing me." Esme groaned as her back hurts.
"I thought you wanted me out of the room, mother?" He said in a mock tone.
"Well you're still here so either you can guard the door or help your poor mother out?" She smirked.
Dan grumbled annoyingly and went to help his mother out. Who would have thought his mother was bold and fearless in dealing the two most dangerous ghosts ever.
A/N: I'm happy that I was able to finish this chapter. I'm sorry for a year or two since this story had an update. I have another story currently I'm working on. It's called Hidden so please feel free to check out. I will also update new chapters for this story along with the other, so please guys bear with me if it's too slow from posting new chapters. Until next time guys!