Happy Saturday all! My day wasn't as horrible as a typical Saturday during tailgate season so I can post. Plus you all were so kind to leave reviews and I do so love those. Anyway, some of my favorite ghosts from the DP universe are the FarFrozen. Here and in the next chapter I will add my own touches of head-cannon on them, and they are very important to the story itself. (Trust me) This means less physical action, but I hope it will be interesting enough for ya'll.=^-^=

Ch.17 - Invited Surprise


Inside the Gathering Hall, Ulraj and the Saturdays waited patiently while talking amongst themselves. While the Saturdays sat at a long table, Ulraj was treated to an assortment of cushions, and held the attention of the FarFrozen watching over the group. "Is there anything else you request, your majesty? You need but ask."

Ulraj waved his hand. "No, I'm fine for the moment, Winter Fall."

The FarFrozen bowed in response. "Then simply call if you should require anything else." He then stepped back to his position at the door.

"Why is he the only one getting room service?" Doyle asked in annoyance as he watched Ulraj partake of a warm drink, and was kept warm by a blanket. No one else had even been asked if they wanted or needed anything.

"That is because I am a King." The kumari stated as if it was obvious.

Doyle rubbed his arms. "Yeah, well this place needs a heater for the guests that aren't so lucky."

"Just think about something else, Doyle. I'm sure we'll be able to do something about it once their leader comes back." Drew tried to console as she rubbed her own arms and leaned against her husband.

Doc then turned to his son. "Then here's something. Where in the world did you find that Raiju, Zak? Not only are they extremely rare, but indigenous to Japan only."

The young man scratched his head as he sat in Fiskerton's lap. The lemurian had been helping him warm up. "I don't really know….. It was just sort of there." He tried to explain. "After I woke up on the island I followed that ghost cat's tracks to these weird ruins. After a few hours of looking around aimlessly I heard this crazy loud noise which turned out to be Danny. He looked like he'd just run a marathon or something, but we didn't get to talk much before Francis showed up."

"So you knew they were looking for you in the ruins?" His mother asked in surprise.

"Yeah," He responded with a nod. "Danny phased me through a wall before they could see me so I didn't get caught with him. All he said was 'figure something out' before tossing me through the wall. After that, I followed those agents to where the airship was but stayed hidden." Zak then crossed his arms and closed his eyes in deep thought. "That's when I suddenly had this feeling… like when I use my powers on a cryptid only I didn't know where it was. I saw those white suited guys with those electric prods, and suddenly I could feel it nearby. That's when the Raiju showed up. With its help I knew I could get you guys out of Epsilon's trap."

Doc rubbed his chin. "So it was already on the island for some reason?"

He turned to his wife. "You think maybe it homed in on Zak like the others?"

"It's a possibility, Doc." His wife responded with a curious nod.

"So basically, Mini-man needs help, and then this Raiju simply shows up just in time? That's a pretty big coincidence if you ask me."

"That's true, but maybe that's why." Doc began with a serious tone.

"So it knew I needed help, and that's why it came?" The young boy asked as he fiddled with his claw.

"Precisely." His father clarified. "Remember, Kur's power is supposed to be able to control an army of Cryptids. I imagine that means calling for Cryptids in the area as well."

"Maybe more than that." Drew started in as she looked towards her son. "It could have been that you reached out with your powers without realizing it. You could have instinctively called for help." She then turned back to her husband. "Just think about it, Doc, the strangest Cryptid migrations didn't start until after the Secret Scientists found out about Zak. We've been constantly on the move since then, not to mention having to fight off the scientists, Nagas, and any other wild Cryptid we may have been trying to investigate during that time."

Doc crossed his arms as he thought over her theory. "It does make some sense-"

"Okay then, what about the giant birds that attacked us over the Atlantic? They didn't really seem to be trying to help Zak at all." Doyle pointed out as he leaned on one arm.

"True, but there could be a reason for that sort of thing too. Not all of the Cryptids we've come across were eager to listen to Zak even with his powers."

"We'll keep it as a working theory for now then, Drew. I'm sure we'll be able to figure out more if we take a better look into those ruins back on the island." Doc ended as he turned to the guarded door. "For now though, I'm beginning to wonder where this 'Lord Frostbite' is, and where he took Maddie and her son."

Drew nodded. "It has been awhile. You think maybe we can ask Winter Fall about it?"

"If he'll listen." Doyle griped sarcastically. "I doubt we're 'royal' enough for that." This was an obvious jab back at Ulraj who was the only one not freezing that didn't have their own fur coat.

"I wouldn't worry." The kumari cut in. "The FarFrozen are more than likely treating them both well."

Doyle turned to him with a raised brow. "Your faith is amazing considering you just met them a few hours ago."

Ulraj scoffed at his sarcastic tone. "I know more than you, and besides, a king must have an excellent judge of character."

"We'll take your word for it." Zak stated with a roll of his eyes. "Anyway, I think Ulraj is right about what they're doing with Danny and his mom. Did you guys catch what they called him?" It was said a couple of times, so everyone quickly nodded. (The Great One) Fiskerton growled with his hands up to enunciate it.

"Yes, but I wonder why?" Drew asked as she rubbed her chin.

"It must have been Great." Doyle joked as he grinned at his own pun.

"Hilarious…" Drew responded as she rolled her eyes.

"Look, he's a superhero. Does a great act of heroism really seem out of the question?" Doyle defended, but his sister simply shook her head.

She then turned to Ulraj. "So what else do you know about these FarFrozen? About their culture? Way of Life?"

The royal kumari seemed very enthusiastic about the question as he cleared his throat to speak. "Well according to what I have been told through both my father and grandfather, no kumari but the king was ever allowed to see the FarFrozen's kingdom, though I'd imagine special considerations could be made. I suppose that would be here in this world. For this reason, knowledge about them, and their way of life was very limited. On the other hand, FarFrozen came to our city in groups for trade and things like that. They were strong, and very festive people who enjoyed athletic pursuits. My grandfather told me about this competition that fascinated him, but he was never told what it was called. As far as individuals though, I was told specifically of their king, who was known as King Cold. It was he who initiated the interaction of our people. He was always described as strong, wise, and benevolent; a perfect model for any king." It showed in his voice that Ulraj seemed to very much believe that fact.

"King Cold? Are all of their names winter related?" Doyle wondered with a raised brow.

"Now that you mention it… Winter Fall, Tundra… Frostbite? They really are all winter themed." His sister agreed.

"Hello? Frozen wasteland? What's odd about that?" Zak pointed out as if it were obvious. Fiskerton quickly agreed with a growl as he pointed at the boy. (He's right.)

"Whatever, all I know is that I'm freezing, not to mention the fact that I haven't eaten anything all day." Doyle reiterated in annoyance now that the conversation had run dry.

"Then we shall have to rectify that situation now won't we?" They all turned to see Frostbite just entering the room followed by several others with plates of food. They quickly set them on the table in front of their guests who seemed quite surprised at the spread. "And also, please accept my apologies about the cold. With your arrival being so sudden, I did not think to prepare. It is standard that guests bring their own defense against the cold when they visit. I have been informed that you all were not given such a chance, and so please accept these." He announced as another FarFrozen entered with a stack of fur jackets.

"Now that's what I'm talking about." The young ex-mercenary declared as he donned the warm clothing.

"See Doyle, patience can be rewarding." Drew told him with a superior tone.

"And for you, your Majesty, I do hope this cuisine will be to your liking. It has been quite some time since our last contact with the Kumari."

Ulraj respectfully bowed his head. "It is quite fine, Lord Frostbite. I appreciate your hospitality." His diplomatic tone couldn't quite hide his excitement. "It is a great honor to be here in the FarFrozen I had heard so much about."

"What about Danny and Mrs. Fenton?" Zak asked as he leaned over Fisk's arm. "Is Danny okay?"

Frostbite turned and nodded. "Ah yes, the Great One and his mother are fine. He is being cared for in our infirmary, and she is staying in there with him for now. You shouldn't worry, and he should be up and around by tomorrow. You are all welcome to stay as companions of the Great One of course, and we will be happy to provide sleeping arrangements." He then turned to Ulraj. "And since you are here, your Majesty, I welcome you to attend tomorrow's festivities. If my memory does not deceive me then Kumari Kandum is one of our ancient allies. As such, you will be given a place of honor with our other invited guests."

Ulraj almost jumped out of his blanket at the invitation. "Of course!" Realizing he was a bit over excited he quickly calmed. "Yes, uh well, it would be an honor, Lord Frostbite. What is it you are celebrating?"

"It is our annual Union Festival. A time of celebration after the storm season ends. We'll have several events as entertainment, as well as food."

Doc seemed a bit put off by the invitation. "We appreciate the invitation, but we need get back to the ruins."

Drew then stood to cut him off. "Actually, we'd be happy to stay. We appreciate the hospitality." She then pulled his shoulder down to whisper to him.

"What are you doing?" He grumbled silently.

"This is golden opportunity, Doc. A chance to take a break without worrying about Epsilon or the Secret Scientists. Just look at Zak." She finished as she turned to the preteen who seemed to be getting excited with Fiskerton over the festival.

Doc quickly changed his frown for a smile. "I suppose you have a point there. Now that I think about it, we came to get their help so waiting for this thing to be over is a good idea." He compromised without much resistance. Even he knew it was a good idea to relax every once in a while…. Be it ever so rare.

"Wonderful! Once you have finished here, Winter Fall will show you to your rooms. He and Hail Fall will remain here should you require any further needs." With that closing statement, Frostbite exited the room with a confident stride.

"Okay, I'll take back that comment about you having too much faith in these guys." Doyle stated as he looked over the small feast. "You were right on the money your highness."

Though he sounded sarcastic when referring to him 'respectfully', Ulraj took the attempted apology as it was. "Of course I was."

"So what about this festival they're having?" Zak started as he made a grab for what appeared to be chicken. "You said you heard about a special sport they do right? What was it?"

Ulraj took a moment to think about how to put it. "Well, as I said, I do not know its name, but it is supposed to be like a sort of battle. They have several participants fight amongst themselves for a large audience."

"So what, boxing? Or is it some kind of fight to the finish, battle royal thing?" Doyle asked out of only an inkling of curiosity.

"It sounds like the gladiator fights of ancient Rome." Drew cut in with a distasteful expression. "Would such a friendly civilization like this really have such a violent contest?"

Ulraj quickly realized there was a misunderstanding and waved his hand to rectify it. "No, I think you have the wrong idea. This battle is not done with weapons like swords or spears. They do not even fight with their bare hands. It is supposed to be done with snow, and ice. They can form teams, and build walls out of what they have around. They then attack each other with the snow."

Zak gave a disbelieving expression as he thought about the idea. "Hold on…. These guys basically have a giant Snow Ball Fight? Are you kidding me?"

Ulraj raised his brow at him. "A Snow Ball Fight? Hmm…. I suppose that does sound right. Making a ball from the snow would make it easier to hit someone with it…"

Both Zak and Fiskerton instantly began laughing at their clueless friend. Ulraj was immediately bewildered by the response. "Now boys…. It's not polite to-" Drew was cut off as she tried to resist laughing herself.

"Ulraj and his people obviously don't come in contact with a lot of snow. It would make sense that he wouldn't know what a Snow Ball Fight was." Doc finished for his wife with a forced serious expression. Ulraj simply sulked as he leaned back against a large cushion.


The halfa turned sleepily on his bed in the infirmary as he stirred to consciousness. The tug of the morning was, as it would be to any teenager in the summer, more than uninvited. "Great One?" He heard only slightly as he raised his hands to cover his face. He groaned sleepily as he stretched, having given up sleeping with a strange nagging thought in his head. "Great One, are you alright?" He heard far more clearly as he dropped one hand from his eyes to peek them open.

He saw a large white blur before focusing his gaze to see a familiar FarFrozen. "Frostbite?" He muttered in confusion as his vision cleared further to show he was not in his room or on the airship. He sat up a little faster than he should have, and quickly leaned on one hand when the dizzy spell set in. "Whoa…. Too fast."

"Please, Great One, do not push yourself so quickly. I do not wish for you to accidentally harm yourself."

Danny weaved his fingers through his hair with a furrowed brow. "Frostbite…?" He then raised his head to look upon his jovial ally.

"Yes, Great One, it is I, Frostbite." The FarFrozen responded.

"So I'm in the FarFrozen? What happened?" Danny asked as he confirmed his surroundings for himself.

Frostbite wore a serious expression as he gestured to the halfa's chest. "That rash of yours, Great One. It has gotten much worse since you came to us last."

Danny looked down at the sickly green mark with distaste. "Ugh…. So that was what happened."

Frostbite nodded as he pulled up a screen beside the bed. "Yes, Great One, and now I believe I have an idea of what it could be." The screen showed a silhouette of Danny with his core depicted at his chest. "Recall, Great One, of when I spoke to you about the nature of your ghost core. Its readings, while they can be similar to others, are as unique as every individual ghost in our world."

He then brought up some sort of line frequency graph below the image. "This was your core reading from when you came to us with your Undergrowth problem. When a ghost develops a new ability naturally, this reading does not change significantly nor will it over the course of one's existence. It is much like the very DNA of a ghost. That does not mean it cannot change or that the change is necessarily a bad thing." He then brought up another one that looked almost the same, but if you looked long enough you could see the difference. "This was your energy signature last week. We detected a minor deviation, and something like this can be quite common in ghosts, but only temporarily." He then pulled up a third graph and this one, while still similar, was far from the same. The frequency seemed much more rapid, and had a higher range. "This is your core readings as of now."

Danny raised a brow as he noted the equipment around him, and even the sensors on his chest and one of his arms. "This rash is…"

"Yes, Great One, it seems to be related to your energy's deviation. This amount of deviation is far from normal, and can be very grave. It's physical effects seemed to start with itching, and grew worse from there?" He inquired though he had a feeling his guess was spot on.

"Yeah… in the last few days it started to hurt." Danny admitted as he placed his hand over it lightly.

"As I thought though I do suppose the good news in this case is that it should not have any other lingering effects for now."

Danny raised a brow and looked at him. "You know what it is?!"

Frostbite took a moment to think on it so he would word it properly. "Well, Great One, I am only certain it is an external force." He then turned to the monitor and pressed a few keys. "You see, with the information we were able to gather from your mother's scanning device, we were able to see the source of the deviation caused a ripple like effect on you. If it had been an internal source it would have been far more subtle. This recording here is what we believe to be the cause of your black out yesterday." The calm energy wave seemed to be suddenly shaken up by something before finding equilibrium again though different then how it started.

"Something attacked me?" Danny asked in confusion. He remembered the sharp pain now, but not what caused it.

Frostbite shook his head. "No, I believe it to be some sort of connection. This energy pulse that disturbed your natural energy flow reacted directly on your core, Great One. I know of not a single ghost capable of such a feat; at least not in this way. This appears to be some sort of energy connection, something not uncommon between ghouls and their masters, or certain artifacts of the zone which require a specific host."

Danny looked down at his chest again with a furrowed brow. "A connection? I don't understand? What am I connecting to? Is there a way I can stop it?" The halfa asked with a worried and very confused tone.

Frostbite turned to him and placed a claw on his shoulder. "I am not certain, Great One, but for now you needn't be too worried. Our scanners indicate your energy signature to be quite stable, even more so than it was on your prior visit. It would seem that this boon is almost complete."

Danny turned to the screen as he dropped his hand from his chest. "Okay… but what's a boon?"

"It is what we call an energy that acts on a ghost in a positive way. Its opposite is called a curse, and acts on its victim in a negative way. Despite the painful sensations this connection seems to be giving you, all of our other scans indicate no other ill effects. It is more likely a side effect of the change than the cause." He then pulled up a bar scale. "And it would also seem that your physical rate of recovery has increased. The physical trauma we could only relate to electrocution seems to have healed completely. How are you feeling?"

Danny paused a moment as he lifted both of his arms. He practiced a few tense movements before raising both brows in surprise. "I feel… I feel great actually." He finally revealed as he stretched his back a bit. "I haven't felt this good in weeks." He seemed suddenly happy at the thought. All of the pain he'd been tolerating from the rash, the stress from late nights during finals, and even the interrogation from before, it was all gone.

Frostbite smiled at the teen's change in demeanor. "I suppose you would. Please try to relax now, and enjoy our Union Festival. You are just in time to join us."

Danny rubbed his chin a moment before he remembered what he was thinking about. "Oh right, that special thing you mentioned you wanted me to come too. I don't know if I can, Frostbite," He began with an apologetic expression. "You see me and my mom were actually trying to help out a friend of hers and their family."

Frostbite nodded in acknowledgement. "Ah yes, they have already agreed to join us as well. That is, your companions the Saturdays."

Danny was surprised at that before shrugging. "They did? Well I guess if they want to stick around… wait where's my mom? And the Saturdays?" He finally thought to ask rather abruptly.

Frostbite gestured to a bed on the other side of Danny's bed. "Well, your mother is resting there. She had fallen asleep watching over you last night and so Permafrost thought to move her into one of the beds so she may rest properly. As for the Saturday's, they were taken, along with his Majesty Ulraj, to our guest quarters. Hail Fall and his brother are giving them their utmost attention."

Danny turned to look at his mom with a relieved expression. She lay fast asleep with a minor expression of worry on her face, and under a warm blanket. "I am most grateful that you could join us after all, Great One, since we shall be having our festival at the castle for the first time in centuries."

"Castle?" Danny asked with a side glance to him. "I didn't know there was a castle here."

The FarFrozen nodded as he clasped his hands together. "Ah yes, but we have not had access to it until recently. Due to your actions in defeating Pariah Dark, the spell he set on it has dissolved. The spell he used physically separated it from our realm, and cast it into another that we could not access. With his spell now gone, however, it has finally reappeared. It was in one of its many structures that Tundra's patrol found you and your companions."

That explained something then, Danny thought. He remembered arriving in a place he didn't recognize despite his familiarity with the FarFrozen realm. His deep thought was suddenly interrupted by a twisted groan from his stomach which instantly caused his face to flare green in embarrassment. He couldn't really be surprised since he hadn't eaten much since the crash on the island. Frostbite simply laughed jovially as he took up the folded piece of Danny's suit from the table nearby. "Ah, Great One, perhaps we should now attend to your more common physical needs now that you are well enough to rise. I have already made arrangements."

Danny took back his top and pulled off the sensors before slipping his arms in the sleeves. He wore a slight grimace as he tried to tone down the flush of his cheeks. "Uh thanks…." He then took another glance down at his chest. "Are you sure this will be okay?"

Frostbite pat him on the shoulder. "From what we have been able to gather it has caused a mild strain on your core, but it is currently stable. Lady Glacia, who will be arriving later today, is far more familiar with such things. I plan to have her opinion on it for I am quite sure I have seen it's like before."

Danny finally zipped his suit back as he swung his feet over the edge of the bed. "Whatever," He finally responded with a relieved sigh. "If you think it's going to be fine then I'll take your word for it."

Frostbite was his authority on ghost biology even if Danny himself didn't really get all of it. His trust in Frostbite was more than well-deserved after all. He kept his lingering worry at bay as he followed his woolly ally out of the medical bay. Frostbite waited just outside the doors and addressed Permafrost as she was about to re-enter herself. "There you are, Permafrost. Now that the Great One has recovered I would like for you to keep watch over his mother who still rests in the infirmary. You may bring her out to the castle for the festivities when she awakens."

Permafrost struck her chest in salute before looking towards Danny. "As you wish, sir. I am glad you are well again, Great One, and please enjoy yourself." She wore a warm smile as she turned away to the infirmary. She had always been the most caring of any of the FarFrozen Danny had met though she was also the only female FarFrozen too. It was always weird, but not something he felt he should pry into.


Out in the village, Danny was surprised at the inactivity. Normally when he came to the FarFrozen the furry ghosts were everywhere. This was explained after Frostbite took him on one of their hover carts. The trip to the castle took no time at all, and the population around it was three times what he saw in the village. "Whoa…." He let out in amazement as the grand structure of stone and ice towered over them.

The strange yet magnificent castle sort of reminded him of an igloo with a medieval castle protruding from the top. The dome structure served as the base and other buildings spidered out around it. The only real evidence of its age was the few sections of shattered stone that revealed the inside, and of course the built up ice that coated many places in no particular pattern. "It really is a sight to behold is it not Great One?" Frostbite asked proudly as he hopped off the vehicle. Danny followed as he guided him around. "The main structure will need some tending, but our festivities will be held in the grand arena over here." He pointed ahead and at what appeared to be a large ice wall. The structure was round and the tops were jagged but uniform. There were a handful of tunnels that led into the structure which were all manned by a single FarFrozen to keep watch. "Do you wish to take a peek inside?"

Danny shook his head. "No, I'm sure I'll see it later right?"

The FarFrozen nodded as they both continued on through the estate. "So, who else is here? You said before that you were inviting other allies to this didn't you?"

Frostbite seemed pleased he brought it up as turned to him. "Ah! Yes we have, though I'm sad to say our guests have dwindled in the centuries since the festival's inception. I'm looking forward to introducing you."

They were suddenly stopped as a familiar shout rang out from behind them. "Great One!" Danny turned to see Polaris or as Danny called him 'Polar', running to catch up with them holding a small device. "I must speak with you immediately! It is most urgent!"

Frostbite seemed quite confused by his subordinate's outcry. "What has happened, Polaris?"

"Is that my phone?" Danny asked on a somewhat different note.

"Yes it is, Great One. Your sister has requested your ear. I fear my brother may have made a mistake in journeying to your home this morning."

Danny's eyes went wide. "Thuban did what!?"

Polar seemed rather guilty as he handed the phone to its owner. "Early this morning Thuban took notice of the many unanswered messages of worry on this device of yours. He believed it prudent to go and inform your family that you were in good health."

"In person!?" The halfa questioned back in slight panic. "Why couldn't he just call or wake me up so that I could?"

Polar seemed confused now. "That would have been quite rude. It is always cordial to present important news as this in person if at all possible."

Danny face palmed immediately. It made sense that Frostbite only ever explained things when he visited him in the FarFrozen now, but that wasn't the point. "I am so sorry Jazz." He lamented as he looked at how many times she had called before Polar must've picked up the phone. "I'm just going to call her back real quick." He informed as he gestured to the phone, and flew up out of ear shot. He let out a breath before hitting her name in his contacts list, and steeled himself for what was to come. "Jazz?" He questioned after he heard it connect and remain silent.

"Oh my gosh, Danny! What happened? Why didn't you or mom call!? Are you alright?" She bombarded him with so many questions he just had to cut her off before she could fire out a new one.

"Calm down, Jazz, we're fine. Polar just told me that Thuban went to see you….. what happened?" He asked hesitantly because he was afraid to find out.

"A large yeti like ghost barreled from the portal and claimed to be harboring you and mom safely." She shot back as if it was obvious.

"Uh… yeah, I figured that part. What about dad?"

She seemed to mumble through the phone at first before letting out a breath. "I guess that's the weird part."

The knot in the halfa's stomach loosened as he reflexively raised a row. "What?"

"I've been keeping an eye on them for an hour or so and….. well they are getting along. I don't get it at all, but it's better than the two of them fighting."

Danny was now rather dumb struck as he took a double take to make sure he'd called the right person. "My dad?"

"Yes."

"He's getting along with a ghost?"

"Yes."

"Without being forced to? Does he know Thuban's a ghost?"

"Yes, Danny, I know its super weird, but that's what I'm looking at. About three minutes after dad snapped out of his initial shock they somehow got on to the topic of crafts, and haven't stopped talking since." Danny's mind felt like it was on dial-up as the information slowly processed in his brain. Yes his dad has worked alongside a ghost without incident, and one time it had even been Danny as Phantom, but this was….. unexpected? Maybe not quite the word for it. Unlikely sounds better. "Danny? Are you still there?" Jazz wondered on the other side.

"Oh, yeah I'm still here, Jazz."

She let out a relieved breath he could easily hear through the phone. "One more thing, Danny. I don't know if Dad caught on, but he mentioned you as Phantom, and your relation to me, mom and dad. If he did, I can't see it."

The knot returned full force to halfa's stomach as the reality set in. He'd already known he'd have to tell him when he got home. Mom wasn't going to let him get by like Jazz did. "Um, Jazz? I guess I should go ahead and tell you that mom…. Well she figured me out."

"She did?" His sister responded without really sounding surprised. They both knew their mom was smart if not a little unperceptive at times. "Judging by how you said that, I'll assume it went pretty good." Jazz had always known that her mother wouldn't do any of the things Danny was so paranoid over. She'd even wanted to tell them on several occasions when it would have helped Danny, but also knew he should be the one to do it.

"It went pretty well all things considered. She can't help thinking over how the idea of a halfa works, but I can't expect her to not wonder at least. That's how she is about everything, especially ghosts."

He heard a laugh on the other side. Jazz understood that about their mother too. Even the most ridiculous of things made her mother theorize, but not everything garnered more than a few minutes of thought. It was probably why she was so good at coming up with new cookie recipes. "Well, as long as you're both okay. I can only hope I don't have to worry about dad and the ghost here."

"Thuban is a really good guy, so as long as dad doesn't go crazy on him, you shouldn't have to worry. He's pretty pacifistic." Danny explained to help reassure her. "He'll be out of your hair soon enough since he has to come back to help get things set up here…. And…" Danny trailed off as he saw a large lumbering form step out from behind the castle. The familiar ghost didn't look too happy at all as she started to growl at several smaller forms. "Uh-oh…."

"What's wrong, Danny?"

"I'll uh… I'll just call you back in a bit." He quickly hung up the phone despite Jazz's obvious dismay, and floated down to Frostbite.

He seemed rather distraught as the scene unfolded before them. "What is he doing here?!" He then dashed off leaving Danny and Polar behind.

"Why come now? He's never accepted the invitation before."

"Who?" Danny asked.

Polar took off into a run which Danny copied. "Lord Igneous. He is lord of the Flizards. There, to the left." He pointed at what appeared to be a lizard made of magma itself. The ambient glow was a purplish-red with a flaming mane down its neck to match.

"Flizards? Wait, don't you guys hate each other? Why did you invite him?"

Polar seemed angry, but kept his calm. "Lord Frostbite does so as a gesture of good faith. We currently maintain an uneasy peace with them you see."

"Well, it might just end if Dora gets her claws on him." Danny took flight to intercept the mighty dragon's claw as quickly as he could.

"You miserable, traitorous weasel! How dare you come here! To this place! You haven't the right!" She bellowed at the flaming ghost before Danny suddenly popped into her path.

"Hold on, Dora!"

She reared back her head in surprise. "Sir Phantom? Whatever are you doing here?" She quickly remembered what she was doing before she got an answer however. "Please stand aside, Sir Phantom! This miserable knave must be taught a lesson once and for all!"

Danny flew closer to her with his hands raised in a negotiative display. "Please hold on, Dora! I'm sure Frostbite doesn't want his guests to fight like this."

She narrowed her eyes at him before looking past him at the Flizard. "Invited!? Why ever would he invite that wretch!?" She asked him with steam lifting from her nostrils.

"Please, your majesty! I ask that you do not harm him for he truly was invited to come." Frostbite shouted so that she could hear from her great height.

Dora seemed cross by the information as she sat back on her haunches. "Was it not his people who slew.. .." She stopped and let out a snort that billowed steam. "Very well then. While I do not understand your reasoning, Lord Frostbite, I will respect your wishes as your guest." She then turned back to Danny who had floated down closer to the snowy ground. "You as well, Sir Phantom. For your faith in his judgement, I will hold it as well."

Danny wore an appreciative smile as he grounded himself in the snow. "Thanks, Dora." She nodded before sending one last glare at Igneous and turning around to address another strange ghost Danny didn't recognize.

"My gratitude, Great One." Frostbite said with a claw on Danny's shoulder. "You were much quicker than I in defusing that situation."

"It's no problem, Frostbite. I didn't want a fight either." Danny responded as he turned to the Flizard who watched from only a few yards away.

Frostbite turned as well to address the sudden guest. "Lord Igneous, I was told that you declined our many invitations. Please do not think me ungracious, but why the sudden change of mind?" Frostbite's tone was obviously tempered since it lacked his usual lively feel.

Lord Igneous flicked his tongue with a slight smirk. "Oh I understand, Lord Frostbite," He began with a somewhat sarcastic tone. "But I simply could not pass it up when I heard that this supposed 'Great One' was in attendance. It's only fitting I pay my respects to he who brought down the mighty Pariah Dark." Igneous narrowed his yellow eyes at the halfa. "Though I am quite surprised. Please excuse my rudeness, but I thought he would be more fitting in appearance for such a reputation." He then approached Danny until he was less than two yards away. "So this is the fabled halfa? Phantom, was it?"

"Yes." He answered promptly as he stood confidently. He took a breath before placing his left fist to the right side of his chest. "It is an honor, Lord Igneous."

The Flizard raised a brow at the tense display. He then lowered his head but kept it level with the ground while he raised his left claw to hover over his left shoulder. "The honor is mine, Phantom." His tone seemed slightly insincere, but Danny couldn't be sure since he'd never met a Flizard before.

Frostbite cleared his throat as he performed the same gesture Danny had moments ago. "Greetings on behalf of my people, Lord Igneous. Though we were slightly ill prepared for your arrival, we will do our best to accommodate you as an honored guest." His brow then sharpened and a slight scowl could be seen on his furry face. "I must ask you though, to treat the other guests with equal respect." He then placed both his claws on Danny's shoulders. "And within our realm you will show this respect to the Great One by calling him as such."

Igneous' expression seemed to sour slightly at the understated command, but Danny raised his hand to get Frostbite to back off. "It's fine, Frostbite." He stated as he kept a stern gaze on the Flizard. "He doesn't have to call me that. No one has to call me that. Phantom is fine." A short silence ensued as the three of them watched each other.

The flaming ghost then flicked his tongue again and let out a laugh. "Well then, Phantom, may you burn from the inside out." You could see what could almost be a smile form on his face as he turned back to the castle. He looked on it as he traced its edge curiously. As soon as he was out of sight Danny released a tense breath.

Frostbite released a lively chuckle as he pat the halfa's shoulders. "Well done, Great One, well done indeed."

Danny gripped his fist at shoulder level as he clenched his teeth. "Man I wanted to punch that guy so badly."

"Why didn't you?" Zak asked as he approached from behind. "Judging by how everyone else was looking at him, no one would blame you." He continued as he glanced where the Flizard was last seen. Fiskerton and Ulraj trailed behind with impressed expressions.

"Oh believe me, I was this close." The halfa expressed with his fingers.

"That creepy lizard would have deserved it though." Zak reiterated as he remembered the smug tone the ghost had used when he first approached the area.

"He may have deserved it, Zak, but I couldn't do that."

Ulraj nodded in agreement while Zak raised a confused brow. "Yes, and might I say, your self-control was simply stunning, Great One." Danny winced at the title as Ulraj turned to Zak. "You see, Zak, when it comes to political situations you cannot simply act on an impulse because the other party deserves it. You're liable to start a war. It is a leader's duty, or in this case a representative's duty, to remain in control, and not fall prey to baiting remarks for the good of their people." He said it with such a proud tone Zak almost rolled his eyes.

Fiskerton then wagged his finger in anger. (But what about what he said?) "That's right." Zak recounted. "He made that jerky remark about asking Danny to burn up or something." Danny remembered it too with slight distaste before a hardy laugh rang out above their heads.

"Oh you misunderstand, young one. I know it may have sounded like some sort of spiteful remark to you but I assure you it most definitely wasn't." Frostbite explained with a grand smile. He then pat Danny's shoulder. "You see, that is actually a very respectful expression of the Flizards. It is common for Flizards to use this when they see someone as an equal."

Danny raised a surprised brow. "Really? But he seemed so…."

Frostbite nodded in understanding. "Yes, but it is very hard to tell sometimes when a Flizard is giving respect to a non-Flizard. We of the FarFrozen also have an expression like this that is often misinterpreted. 'May you freeze for eternity and longer.' This is a wish for the long life of another."

"Well then…" Danny started as scratched the side of his face. "I guess he's not entirely a creep."

The halfa conceded. Zak shrugged. "He's still mostly a jerk to me."

"Ditto." Danny instantly agreed.

"So, your majesty, how do you like the realm of the FarFrozen so far? I trust you are enjoying yourself?"

The young kumari nodded enthusiastically. "Of course! How could I not with all the gracious hospitality you've shown me? I consider it an honor to be the first kumari in centuries to be welcomed into your kingdom." He expressed with a slight bow.

Frostbite let out his hand for him to stop. "Please do not feel you must do such things for me, your majesty. The FarFrozen is no kingdom, but a realm. What is a kingdom with no king after all?" He expressed with a soft grin.

"But are you not the king of this land?" Ulraj countered with a confused brow.

"Not at all your majesty. I am known as Lord of the FarFrozen, but I am no king." Frostbite revealed.

Ulraj raised a hand to his chin in thought. "Well I suppose it could have changed in hundreds of years. You see my grandfather used to tell me stories about the benevolent and noble King Cold, and I simply assumed this land retained a monarchy as mine does." He apologized with a slight flush on his cheeks.

Frostbite nodded amicably. "Oh did he now? I must admit, it warms me that tales of his greatness are still told despite the centuries we had with no contact." His smile then seemed to become sad as he continued. "But I must correct you about one thing, your majesty. The FarFrozen was never a monarchy. We only ever had one king, whom you know as King Cold. I must also inform you that, although he truly was great beyond words, my father died a long time ago." He then brought a fist to his chest and took a slight bow. "Please excuse me for a moment, Great One, I must attend to Lord Igneous' arrangements."


And there's that. Can anyone say "party in the ghost zone?" It'll be something interesting, or at least that's my intention. I really try to keep things interesting even when it doesn't involve a fight.

So Danny's issue seems fine for now, and I hope at least some of you figured it out by now. I know someone has. The explanation about core's and junk was all head-cannon so take it with a grain of salt alright? It's not bad science, just fan-science.

Also, it would seem that Jack may or may not have been informed of Danny's secret. I know it was mean of me to leave that so ambiguous, but what can I say? You should know me by now.

Last thing. You may have noticed Danny's tendency to stay out of the limelight in this story. This also shows when he isn't exactly a fan of the title 'Great One'. Even though in the show he enjoyed being popular, it generally resulted badly for him. I like to think he grew to prefer being treated like one of the crowd in most cases. (emphasis on MOST)

Thx for reading this far into my story and I hope you'll leave a review! I love to hear what ya'll think of the story. Also feel free to ask questions if something doesn't seem clear.=^-^=