“It’s the strangest thing, as soon as we catch one they vanish!” she whined, “or are just normal -- albeit very sturdy -- rats.” 

“Please tell me you aren’t dissecting them in the kitchen,” Jazz looked to be turning green, “again.”

“Oh honey, no, of course not!” she responded, putting away another ghost weapon, “we’ve kept it to the lab.”

Danny felt as sick as Jazz looked at the idea. At least it was just rats -- normal rats -- but still. That was rather unpleasant. 

“Anyway, I left some leftovers in the fridge next to some of the ghost rat samples,” his mom said as Jazz tried not to gag, “Don’t stay up to late!” 

And with that, his parents drove off in the GAV. He, being ever-so lucky, got splashed with some stagnate water as the vehicle sped off. Jazz was already inside, mumbling about buying a “normal” pizza or “normal” salad. 

Danny could only sigh and be semi-relieved at least he wouldn’t have to worry about hiding Phantom from his parents tonight. He could actually have some time to himself if he played his cards right. 

“Well, that’s unfortunate.”

Danny jumped nearly a foot in the air. Out of nowhere was a person -- short hair, dark eyeliner -- standing next to him. They were wearing...a rather eccentric coat or multiple colors stitched together, jeans, and long boots. In their hand was a flute, adding on to the weirdness.

“Uhm, can i help you?” Danny asked, a bit perturbed that something felt...off but there was no ghost sense going off. 

“No, I don’t think so,” they replied, still looking off to where his parents drove off, “It must be hard though, with parents like that.” 

“Ah, well, it’s fine,” Danny gave a nervous laugh and rubbed the back of his neck, “They mean well.”

“Most do,” they hummed, but turned to him and gave a soft smile, “I’m sorry, I must seem rude. I would love to stay and chat but I must be off. Would you be so kind to point me in the direction of city hall?”

Danny nodded, and started to point in the right direction. The other nodded, thanked him, and went off. They played as their flute as the strode off. It was actually...kind of a nice tune?