Shiny New Year

The holidays were conclusively over. The children were due back to their educational institutions the first Monday of the New Year. It'd been a draining holiday season. Gradually everyone was getting back to their everyday routines.

Everyone in the Ghost Zone had their own routines. Genuine specters were nothing like how they're depicted in humanity's moving-picture shows or fictions. Like humans, ghosts required the basics: nourishment, sleep, clothing, and occupation to pay for things.

The Ghost Zone persisted in being far more complicated then humanity could rationalize. Currently, Clockwork's Clock Tower chimes the hour. Otherworldly timepiece's way of telling time was unlike Earth's. Given they're devoid of any celestial bodies, they didn't have day or night in the Ghost Zone. For them, what was considered 'daytime' was when the sizable energy novas blazed radiantly. "Nighttime" was when the novas dissolved, and their universe got shadowy.

The Clock Tower chimed eight times, so that meant it was eight a.m. Of course, loads of ghosts weren't any more morning people then humans. The ghost huntsman Skulker was not a morning person. His wife, Huntress? She was a morning person.

While her partner snoozed, she flipped off the fur blanket, gliding into the shower stall. It was paradoxical because her hair was flames, yet the unearthly H2O didn't extinguish it. Even their water looked different, a luminescent light-green. However, rainwater was silvery, moreover, not so quickly removed. Once again, the laws of the Ghost Zone weren't the same ones that governed the earth.

Huntress began to sing as she showered. The bounty hunter had an excellent voice, so no-one told her to shut up when she sang. She liked to sing whatever happened to be on the top 40 list of Ghost Box radio. Today she sang a piece of music by her best-loved artist: Sierra Siren. Sierra Siren wasn't the pop star of their children's generation. She'd been the star during their parents' teen years. She's was singing, " My Serina." It'd been a best-selling love song when she'd been a juvenile. She sincerely enjoyed herself as she sang the compelling ballad.

"I've tried to calm down,
I've tried to love others,
I've laughed and enjoyed-
many moments of fake happiness.

Then I decided to run away,
from my own darn destiny,
only to come to understand-
we can not escape our fate...

She fed me in the morning air,
fascinated with her long hair,
woke me up with lullabies,
at nights prepared my mornings...
now she's gone, yet I forgive her,
my Serina, the charm-caster of my heart's strings... "

As she concluded her shower, she'd overheard her son, Hunter, whimpering. Wondering what was upsetting him, she quickly threw something on. Then hurried to her son's bedroom. "Hunter? Sweetheart, what the matter?" as she went into her five-year-old son's room. She'd avoided tumbling over the boy's Nerf gun collection. Hunter worshiped Nerf. They got him Nerf guns when they're on Earth, helping the Masters out with their commercial enterprise, Vladco.

His bedspread was in army cameo, and he wore black pajamas with the Punisher's skull on the nightshirt. "Honey, what the matter?" looking at her child. Due to her and his father's anatomy, their son ended up being a cyborg.

His hands and feet were prosthetic. Additionally, extraordinary spectral material strengthening his skeleton. Half his skull was metallic as well. Otherwise, he looked like a normal child. But right now, he couldn't stop crying, and she wondered why. She quickly found out the reason. "It hurts, Mommy! I can't stand the pain!" as he held his jaw in agony.

"What hurting, sweetie?" worrying something was seriously wrong with her son.

"I've got a toothache, and it's killing me!" he groaned, holding his aching jaw.

"Let me see," she pulled him closer and looked. Yep, her son had a loose tooth causing him a great amount of discomfort. "Looks like you'll need to go to the dentist." "This hurts so bad!" he couldn't stop moaning as his mother smiled sympathetically. At least he hadn't gotten upset about seeing the dentist. That was out of the blue.

"Well, honey, you've your first loose tooth. Even ghosts lose their baby teeth before their adult ones grow in. Though unlike humans, we don't have canines. We have fangs. They hurt the worst when they come in," his mother replied soothingly as she rocked him.

"Now I'm literally in agony!" Hunter cried as his mother still rocked him. "Don't worry, son. I'll make a call to the dentist. We'll get this over with as soon as possible. For now, let's see if there anything in the medicine cabinet that can ease the pain," picking him up and taking him to the bathroom. She found the Ghost Zone version of Ora-gel to soothe her son's discomfort for now.

By now, her husband was up making a pot of ghost coffee. (Ghost coffee looked like thick liquefied lime Jell-O) She dropped her son in his room so he could get dressed while she spoke to his father. "Skulker, we've got a problem."

"Problem? Don't tell me the hunting knives aren't on sale at the sporting goods store! I need to replace my best one!" he demanded, making his spouse look a little crossed.

"Honey, we don't discuss weaponry at the breakfast table. You know the rule," she chided him gently. Then added, "We also make sure all armaments are securely locked up when not in use. We don't want Hunter to injure himself."

"Fine, and yes, they're locked up. So what is the problem?" as he handed her some coffee, which she drank leisurely. After a few sips, she told him what the trouble was.

"We need to schedule a dentist appointment for Hunter. He's got his first loose tooth, and the pain is excruciating. Consequently, I'm going to go arrange it to call The Dentist."

The Dentist in the Ghost Zone was another person who'd accept the Ancient's offer to be immortalized here. Their dental practitioner was known on earth as the Father of Modern Dentistry. His human name was Pierre Fauchard (1678 – March 22, 1761).

Countless renowned people throughout Earth's history accepted the Ancients' offer to be transformed into ghosts. Yes, some had declined, but about 95% of people accepted the Ancient's offer. Only 5% declined. Like with their medical institution staff, other notable people connected to dental medicine worked at the Ghost Zone Dentist Office. One good thing was these dental practitioners weren't as greedy as humans, so it was more reasonably priced.

"That's his problem? That's what he's whining about? He's a hunter! A toothache should be no big deal!" scowled her husband. Skulker, like countless other macho men, had a clear definition of what was considered manly. His wife disapproved of that line of thinking.

Her blazing orange eyes glowed blazingly as she got a bit aggravated with her hubby. "I hope you aren't this tactless in the future, or you'll find me removing your organs while you're awake," cracking her knuckles dangerously.

Seeing he'd misspoke, he quickly revised, "Sorry, honey, I shouldn't have been so tactless." Skulker knew the most dangerous creature was an enraged woman. He wouldn't mess with one, especially not his wife! He valued his manhood, thank you very much.

"Hmm, I'll let it go this time. Except don't think because you've got a son, you can tell him, "Boys don't cry," or "Men aren't weak." I will not tolerate that if you do that," she warned him. Then grabbing what passed as a bagel in the Ghost Zone started munching on her breakfast.

"Okay, I've got the warning. What are you up today besides calling The Dentist?" as he devoured his own bagel. Skulker preferred pork for breakfast. However, they're out of what passed for bacon. They needed to go grocery shopping before long.

"I've got some fugitives to hunt down today. We've some renegades who helped bust out some baddies on Earth. I've to help hunt them down before blood spilled," as she wiped the crumbs off her lips.

"Well, no one can escape you, my dear," Skulker compliment his wife. Next to him, there was no better hunter anywhere else. One of the reasons they're a perfect match.

"Thanks for the vote of confidence. I hope to be back by dinnertime. If I'm not, then I'll be back tomorrow. So you've to watch Hunter until I get back."

"Not a problem. Perhaps today I'll show him how to make traps!" only for his mate to eye him, "Or we could play a board game instead," he whispered quickly.

"Play a board game. He's still too young to be trained as a proper hunter. Plus, we don't want to agitate his toothache," as she kissed him. In twenty minutes, she was out the door on her Harley, ready to track down the fugitives.

Elsewhere, in a section of the Ghost Zone called Mainframe, the home of all the ghosts of technology, Pixel had her own difficulties. The wife of Technus was currently occupied attempting to write a new firewall code. "What is going on, my beautiful data?" her husband asked as he drank decaffeinated coffee. Pixel wouldn't let her husband having anything high in sugar. He was hyper enough without caffeine.

Looking up, she replied, "While I'd love to discuss binary code with you, darling, I need to finish writing this firewall. We don't need anyone hacking the GZSTF," punching a few more computer codes into her mini data processor.

Sighing, she explained, "We had a breach two weeks ago by some darknet hacker on Earth. Unknowingly, he linked up with our central processing unit! We're fortunate to get rid of him before he did serious damage," as she shivered at that thought.

"You're one smart cookie, Pixel. The brainiest tech ghost there is! Writing a firewall coding system should be a piece of a cake," her hubby assured her, which made her smile.

"That's only part of the problem, Nick. We need to make sure we don't have further attacks. Plus, we can't permit humans to get a hold of our engineering science or, worse, our magic. Therefore its imperative I make certain this firewall code can't be broken through. That means I've to out-think the supercomputer at HQ. Which won't be easy."

"Can't you call on the Phantom Virus for assistance? Isn't he one of the best people to ask about computing device programming?" he inquired, referring to one of her colleagues.

She shook her head, "He's occupied with getting rid of the virus already in our system. So it's up to me to write this coding system," came the short answer.

The Phantom Virus was the only individual at work who challenged her in her engineering skills. Ironically his likeness would someday be made into a scoundrel in a Scooby-Doo film. Often humans had no idea where their inspiration came from. Though every so often, ghosts inadvertently gave them ideas. So while it wasn't understood how the Phantom Virus encounters humans for that movie, all the same, they'll come up with him as their antagonist.

Suddenly the sound of breaking came from their living room. They immediately flew to their living room to find both their daughter and a priceless broken vase on the floor. "Techna Nicole Technus! What happened?" her mother demanded. Pixel normally spoke unbelievably calmly. Hence the fact she raised her voice showed she was displeased.

Techna giggled apprehensively, "I was trying out my new skates," she started to explain, only for her mother to cut her off. "You decided to roller-skate inside the house? When you're told NOT to? And you broke an antique?" her mother's voice was quiet, but she might as well been screaming.

The pink-haired child knew enough to hang her head, shamefully, "Sorry, Mommy," as she tried to make herself smaller. "Sorry isn't always enough, Techna. I hate to take away your Christmas present. However, I'm confiscated your roller-skates for one week as punishment. So hand them over," as she held out her dainty hand.

Reluctantly their daughter handed over her brand-new roller-skates. She looked like she was going to start pouting. "Don't pout or throw a tantrum, Techna. There are consequences when you break the rules." Pixel then turned to her better half, "Nick, I trust you not to give in and return them before a week up," as she handed him the sports equipment. He looked a little anxious.

"What do you want me to do with these?" he questioned cluelessly. His spouse looked at him exasperated, "Please go lock these up where she can't find them. We're not returning them till a week gone by." The tech spook took the hint by leaving to conceal the skates. Pixel turned back towards her daughter. "You can help me clean this up the old-fashion way. Go get a broom and dustbin."

Techna knew her mother was super mad now. When she said "old-fashion," that meant doing things without smart devices. While on Earth, they're still decades away from smart devices, they're already part of the mainframe's everyday life. Technology apparitions were light years ahead when it came to engineering science. Humans considered themselves so intelligent. However, compared to the ghosts in this section of the Ghost Zone? They'd look like imbeciles.

After dealing with her daughter, Pixel got back to work on writing her firewall. Her husband had left to get his classroom at the high school ready for the new year. Pixel allowed her daughter to play with her toy computer. A ghostly version of V-tech named G-Tech. When she was a little older, then she'd learn how to use a proper computer. For now, Techna engaged in games to improve her cognitive skills. Her kindergarten teacher would be so proud of her.

Currently, at the shopping mall coffeehouse, two young moms were sharing a coffee. Spectra and Desiree didn't have to go back to work yet. It was the cafe's last day for holiday drinks. Therefore the moms had a latte and their daughters hot chocolate. Their daughters further amused themselves by showing off their brand-new jewelry.

Savoring the pick-me-up, the shadow wraith opened the conversation. "It's forever murder on my skin, the holidays between my occupation and taking care of my family. I honestly don't get why people's mental health constantly goes downhill during the holidays. Especially since I'm striving to rid myself of my addiction to misery."

"Well, you've had more then one discipline hearing at work. I'm not surprised. The Therapist sent you to get retrained. Surely, you can find an alternative source to help you," the jinn replied, using magic to stir her coffee.

"Well, here's hoping that achievable," raising her coffee cup. After a big gulp, "What about you? You make any children's wishes come true?"

"I've been swamped this holiday season. Splitting my powers between here and Earth, helping with the Vladco Holiday Helpers. I had to conjure up three times extra donations."

"Well, have your abilities developed? You already pointed out my powers required improvement. So about how are yours?"

"My wishing powers are getting better control, thankfully. Still, it largely comes down to the choice of words. As any genie will tell you, the key is in the details."

"Yes, words can be interpreted in countless ways. So are you going to the Forgotten Treasures antique sale today? I'm hoping they've some mirrors on sale."

Desiree giggled at this, "Spectra, you live in a glass lake-house. Don't you see your reflection enough? Though, I've also loved the idea of magic mirrors."

"Well, I'm looking for a vanity mirror for my daughter. The vanity play-set I got her for Christmas mirror cracked. Therefore I'm seeking to replace it," Spectra glanced over at her daughter.

The redhead was clothed in an adorable brand-new bright pink attire. Pink was Vanity's favorite color. Though it was clear Desiree's daughter Desire favored purple. She, too, was in a brand new dress inspired by a belly dancer. However, it was modest for a child.

"So what do you think of my new choker Mommy got me?" Vanity pointed to a beautiful cat-eye jeweled choker around her neck. "It's gorgeous, but do you like my new jeweled headband?" Desiree pointed to her new amethyst studded headband.

"Yes, it's cute. I like your new dress! Where your mom get it?"

"It came from Creelisel's new line. Dreamy Dress. I'm so happy she released some clothes for our age."

"That's where my dress came from as well! At least we've got good taste in clothes and accessories!"

"Girls?" called their mothers as they looked up. "Yes?" they both asked. "We're going to the antique store now. Remember, look but don't touch. We'll get lunch afterward. So come on!" Desiree reminded the children as they headed off for sale.

While the Ancients were in their Nexus discussing business for the new year, their children were being babysat by Pandora. She was currently helping her charges with their language skills. Courtesy of Ghostwriter, he'd donated various books for Pandora's childcare center. Pandora once again was the most dependable babysitter in the entire Ghost Zone. Though she too required donations to make sure her charges were satisfied when under her care.

Today she was reading "Corduroy" to the Ancients' children. Ghostwriter's library contained books by both ghost and human writers. Given books were a critical part of both worlds. Nor could they let the written word die out.

The young children were enjoying hearing the story about the little toy bear trying to find a button. How, in the end, the girl took him home despite not having one. After she finished the book, she asked the children different questions about the book and its illustrations. She then asked the children to break into pairs and write a story of their own. After they're done, they'd read them to each other.

The pairs were Sage and Draven, Prima and Aidan, Kai and Empathy, and Ollie and Gale. Each pair tried to merge their strengths to write a good story. It wasn't easy working together. They all had different skills or interests. So learning to compromise and help each other with the assignment wasn't easy at all. Slowly the pairs were able to write decent stories.

Pandora was very impressed in the end with all their wonderful stories. She helped them any way she could. She also suggested they ask their parents for help when they came to get them.

As for the Ancients themselves? The new year brought fresh challenges. The first order of business was addressing how the timeline of this new universe was holding up.

"From my recent time dancing experiences, I've witnessed several significant events transpire. They line up with other timelines events of significance. So, even in this new universe, things are as they should be," the time ghost reported.

"Clockwork, you've done an excellent job with ensuring events pass as they should. Though with this new reality, some deaths have been prevented. Yet according to your report, they do not endanger this world's timeline."

"No, they do not. As I'm sure, Vida can attest to even new lives being born as had a positive effect."

"You're both right. While a few deaths were prevented, many unbirths were undone. Also, these individuals are only improving both worlds. They'll make an important difference that will change the world for the better. Now that they've been allowed to do so."

"All the same, we must ensure they have got the wisdom to do this. Negative events don't repeat that history. So we should do our best to encourage people to seek enlightenment and the wisdom to make better choices," Cognite voiced their opinion.

"I agree with Cognite. So many universes, so many outcomes. It's impossible to predict or control all of it. The truth of life we all learn you can't control it or people.

Simply because we've seen several timelines doesn't mean this one is the perfect one. Since nothing is perfect, I feel its important to keep the worlds from bleeding into each other. It's equally important that we help others make informed choices so this world can be it's best," Dimensie added their opinions.

"Yes, we can only do so much to control chaos or peace. Life will always remain chaotic, for there must be a balance between chaos and order. We can't have the scale unbalanced." Discord reminds everyone.

"I second that motion. My dearest wish is if we could avoid some conflicts altogether. I know none of has can truly overturn every event that passes between both worlds.

All the same, if we can encourage more love, peace, and harmony? We might be able to save at least some lives. So I propose we do our best to encourage those and prevent some conflicts that can be avoided." Harmony spoke hopefully.

"We will do our best, Harmony. For one, I would love to encourage the human race to take steps to prevent climate change. We can't avoid all of it, but we can solve the problem sooner by helping open humanity's eyes. Before it's too light." Tempest pointed out.

For a moment, they're all silent at the Elemental ghost's words. Each thought of their significant others who helped them the best they could in their endeavors. They couldn't do it all alone, but they did require more help if they wanted both worlds to survive.

After a few moments of silence, Enchantra spoke up. "Even though I'm the Ancient of Magic, it comes with limits. It's also not the answer to our problems either.

We all have limits of what we can and can't do. We also realize we cannot directly interfere with either our kind or humans. A sentient being has the free will to chose their own fate for good or ill.

That's why I won't wave my wand to fix all the problems. That's not the answer. The best we can do is encourage those we watch over to better themselves so both our worlds will keep thriving."

"You've made an excellent point, Enchantra. Even as the Ancient Ghost of Energy, I cannot solve the human energy crisis. Not that I don't want to, but I simply cannot.

But it's not simply the energy to power things we should worry about. We should worry about energy in ourselves. If we can change people to have more positive energy, then negative?

At least it will be a start in the right direction. Again, as a sentient being, as free will like an object has mass, we can't separate them. Only push them to correct their mistakes and do better." Dynama reminded them.

Lilith looked up from her writing. Being the Keeper of Spirits, her job at these meetings was to keep a record of everything. "I've been reviewing all your statements. Nothing said here is untrue.

We've learned a great deal about ourselves since the creation of this universe. We all strive to do all in our power to ensure this world's survival. All the same, we need to realize our limits.

Therefore the best solution is to educate this new generation to learn from past mistakes, and hopefully, we can push both races in the right direction. Only then will be any hope.

After all, the first step in change is to make different choices to change the big picture's outcome. Everyone has a destiny, of course. But its our choices in the end that determine our ultimate destiny," the Keeper concluded her thoughts.

Since everyone agreed, they moved on to the next bit of business. They did continue to discuss how they could use their powers wisely. How to help the souls they watch over improve themselves to have a better future, hopefully.

Finally, after spending all day in the Nexus, they called an end to the meeting. All that remained was picking the date of the next meeting and picking up their children. But as the shiny new year began, there was one resolution all agreed upon. They needed not to repeat the last year's mistakes and work towards making better choices this year.

Jimelization owns the song. It's in her story, "Heart of a Mother." I hope you enjoyed this chapter. I'm hoping to slowly ease myself back into chapter writing after spending so much of this year doing one-shots.

I've many story ideas for the future, and I hope you stay tuned for all I plan to do in the future. Thanks. So have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!