Chapter 27
Danny spent the afternoon hanging out with Tucker, their usual banter filling the room as they played video games and discussed their favorite topics—girls, games, and comics. Tucker, still riding the high of finally scoring a girlfriend after taking Danny's advice, seemed more confident than ever. He had learned not to act like a servant in his relationships, standing his ground with an air of control that was a far cry from his earlier demeanor.
Physically, Tucker had also improved, thanks to Danny's encouragement and guidance. His newly gained muscle and growing expertise in hacking made him feel like an indispensable part of the team. The bond between the two was stronger than ever. For Tucker, Danny wasn't just a best friend; he was a miracle worker, someone he would follow without question.
Amid their laughter and planning, Tucker mentioned their dream project of developing games together. It wasn't just idle talk—Tucker's programming skills were advancing rapidly, and his natural genius made the idea seem within reach. His contributions to the team were more than just theoretical. As the group's tech expert, Tucker could disable enemy systems, hack security, and even fight his way out of trouble with his magnetic glove. The addition of thin steel wires he controlled with precision only added to his versatility.
Later in the day, Danny met Sam far from her house. Her family's disdain for his family meant they couldn't meet openly. The upper-class Manson family didn't just look down on people like the Fentons—they openly belittled them. Danny vividly remembered his one encounter with Sam's parents, a mortifying experience that left him feeling like he should disappear from existence.
Despite her environment, Sam had grown into a grounded, humble person. Her rebellious nature was probably her way of resisting her parents' overbearing snobbery. Still, as Danny recalled her mother's piercing gaze and cutting words, he shuddered. Even though she was undeniably attractive, the woman had haunted his nightmares since sixth grade.
When night fell, Danny turned his focus to the looming problem of the Car Ghost. He scoured the city for leads, sometimes spotting his parents in their fortified Ghost Assault Van doing the same. Despite their combined efforts, the ghost eluded them, and the death toll continued to climb. The frustration weighed on Danny, and by the second day, he was on the verge of pulling his hair out in desperation.
Then, while half-heartedly watching the news, something clicked. A report on Batman's recent exploits in Gotham reignited a spark of inspiration.
"How does Batman do it?" Danny muttered aloud, his mind racing. "How does he always seem to know where things are happening? He's just a human, so he must have access to a massive database and cameras..."
The realization hit him like a supernova. Batman wasn't relying on luck—he was using technology and intelligence networks to stay ahead of criminals.
Danny shot up, his excitement palpable. "That's it! If I can access a similar system, I can track the Car Ghost!"
Without wasting another second, Danny transformed into his phantom form and soared toward Gotham. The Dark Knight had answers, and Danny was determined to find them.