Hey guys I'm back again with a different kind of story, I've recently fallen in love with a cartoon known as the loud house, owned by nickelodeon, if you haven't seen it I highly recommend it. But I digress, for this story it's going to be a compilation of one shots with some being in parts.
For this chapter the inspiration comes from 'making the case' in which Lincoln finds a much less embarrassing way of getting into the Loud family trophy case. I hope you guys enjoy it.
"Bold: yelling/ choir singing"
"Thinking"/ "Lincoln solo singing"
"Normal speech"
"Duet"
"Duet Partner singing solo"
Disclaimer: The loud house belongs to Nickelodeon, some of the songs belong to Disney and others belong to DreamWorks.
XXFTLMXX
The loud house, to the casual passerby this home would look like any other suburban home, with white paint and a standard structure of two floors, a basement and an attic. However for the people who have been inside this a house and met the family living inside, they know that this anything but a normal suburban home.
In reality this humble abode houses eleven extraordinary children, one brother and ten sisters, each with their own unique quirks and traits. These siblings are as close as can be, even if their differing personalities clash on occasion or more accurately, all the time. Hence the reason why the name loud house fits so well, with constant anarchy running rampant throughout the house for one reason or another.
However the home of the loud family is silent, most likely due to it being one in the morning, on a school night. Not even the gloomy Lucy Loud, the text crazy Lori Loud or the genius Lisa Loud are awake at the moment. Yes, in an extremely rare instance all of the members of the Loud clan are in the land of dreams, all except for one.
Lincoln Loud stood in the living room of his home, staring longingly at the Loud family trophy case, which had a space reserved for each Loud siblings awards. The only space being unoccupied being his own, the only thing filling it at the moment being dust bunnies and cobwebs.
Lincoln continued to stare at the case, growing more and more depressed the longer he stared at the trophies his, in his mind, infinitely more talented sisters won with their talents. He didn't plan on staring at when he had snuck downstairs to catch a late night zombie movie marathon, but he couldn't help it.
"I can't believe I've never noticed but... my sisters have accomplished so much more than me, Lori has her gold trophies, Leni's fashion designs got her so many blue ribbons, Luna has her battle of the bands trophy, Luan has her comedy awards, Lynn has won a trophy for almost every sport, Lucy's amazing poetry won her that golden pen. Lana won that golden hammer with her woodworking, Lola just has a ridiculous amount of beauty pageant awards, Lisa's genius won so many science fairs, Even Lily has awards in sucking her thumb."
The orange wearingboylooked at his space, which had been moved to the end for obvious reasons. "Then there's me..." He thought sadly, giving a sigh Lucy would be proud of.
On the one hand he couldn't be prouder to have such amazingly talented siblings, every time they won something he would feel an immense surge of happiness for them. On the other hand though, he wished he could be proud of himself, but he had never done anything amazing. He knew that none of his siblings would ever directly call him out on his failures, but that didn't stop them from giving him those pitying looks he hated. Even when he was on the football team he had to have Lynn save his butt from putting in any effort. If that wasn't pitiful he didn't know what was.
The white haired boy clenched his fists, not in anger, he would never be angry at his sisters for doing what they do best. No, he clenched his fists and raised his eyes towards his trophy space in determination. He would win something, a trophy, a certificate, a ribbon or anything that would make his family proud of him. He just needed a chance, one single chance to prove he had a talent or skill worthy of being awarded.
As he headed back upstairs to go to sleep, the zombie marathon completely forgotten, he silently wished that his chance would come soon. If only he knew how quickly that wish would be granted.
XX The next day (Monday) XX
Lincoln was absentmindedly roaming the halls of his school, he had decided to leave lunch early, merely giving his friends the excuse that he needed to go to the bathroom. In reality he needed time to think, he needed to find a talent, something as good as Luna with her instruments or Lisa with her Intelligence.
He was decent at drawing, but in his opinion those drawing weren't even decent enough to win a kindergarten art contest. He could try to find something involving video games or comic book trivia. Though is he was being honest with himself he knew that wouldn't impress his family, they would congratulate him of course but not genuinely like he wanted them to.
The only male Loud child sighed sadly as he leaned up against a random wall, he didn't know where he was in the school nor did he care. He looked both ways down the hallway he was in, finding it to be clear of people he did something nonce of his sisters save Lily had ever seen him do. Something he only did in private or when he was putting Lily down for a nap.
He started singing.
"Well I heard there was a secret chord, that David played and it pleased the lord
"But you don't really care for music, do you?"
His voice came out soft and soothing, a style Lily enjoyed immensely whenever he babysat her. He started out quietly but soon enough he got more into it as he felt his somber mood lift with the song.
"Well it goes like this: the fourth, the fifth the minor fall and the major lift"
"The baffled king composing Hallelujah."
"Hallelujah"
"Hallelujah"
"Hallelujah"
"Hallelujah..."
The middle child was so into his song that he didn't notice one of the hallway doors opening and a thirty something year old man walk out carrying papers and a coffee. The unidentified man only walked a few steps before he stopped and took notice of the white haired kids singing. He started to say something before he thought better of it, instead he quietly leaned on the wall opposite of the boy, a slight smile on his face as he listened to the boys beautiful singing.
Lincoln noticed none of this too wrapped up on the song that so easily distracted him from his worries.
"Your faith was strong but you needed proof"
"You saw her bathing on the roof"
"Her beauty and the moonlight overthrew you"
"She tied you to her kitchen chair"
"She broke your throne and she cut your hair"
"And from your lips she drew the Hallelujah"
"Hallelujah" [x4]
The eleven year old started to increase his volume until it was at a normal level instead of the near whisper he had begun with, the angelic quality of his voice not dropping at all from the change. All the while the man stood across from him with a smile, already having confirmed what he had initially thought. Though he decided to wait until the song was over before addressing the young man before him.
"Baby I've been here before"
"I've seen this room and I've walked this floor you know"
"I used to live alone before I knew you"
"And I've seen your flag on the marble arch"
"And love is not a victory march"
"It's a cold and it's a broken Hallelujah"
"Hallelujah" [x4]
His singing continued to grow more soulful and almost as if by magic all of his stress and insecurities left him along with the words of the song.
There was a time when you let me know
What's really going on below
But now you never show that to me, do you?
But remember when I moved in you
And the holy dove was moving too
And every breath we drew was Hallelujah
Hallelujah [x4]
Maybe there's a God above
All I've ever learned from love
Was how to shoot somebody who outdrew you
And it's not a cry that you hear at night
It's not somebody who's seen the light
It's a cold and it's a broken Hallelujah
Hallelujah [x13]
By the end of the song Lincoln was practically baring his soul out for the world to see using only his voice, all the while not having a care in the world. A tranquil smile adorned his face after the last note left his mouth. As always singing relaxed him while also letting out some pent up emotions.
Lincoln was about to get up from his leaning position on the wall before he heard clapping. Panicked, he opened his eyes and saw a man, most likely a teacher from his state of dress, standing across from him clapping. He had a lighter shade of dark skin with black straight hair on his head. (AN: Imagine Joe West from CW's the flash)
After thirty seconds of light clapping Lincoln was ready to bolt from the hallway, he had never let anyone see him sing for good reason. Well, anyone who could give an opinion besides, "yay Wincoln" anyway. He didn't want his insecurities confirmed by someone besides himself but it seemed as if his fears would come true with how, in his mind, sarcastically the man was clapping. The white haired boy was about to run but before he could the man held up a hand, sensing what he was about to do.
"Hold up a second kid, I want to have a word with you." His words had the desired effect, Lincoln stood stalk still, his mind conflicted on whether he should leave and risk trouble or stay and risk embarrassment. After a moment of contemplation the orange clad boy gave a sigh before turning to the still unnamed man.
The man gave a nod to him before he continued speaking, "that was impressive, the singing I mean, not the failed escape attempt."
The man chuckled at his words before addressing Lincoln again, "that being said I'd like to introduce myself, I'm the music teacher, and who might you be?" He asked, his voice relaxed and calm the entire time he spoke, relaxing Lincoln's fears a bit.
Lincoln took a look around the hallway he was in, only now realizing he had somehow ended up in the fine arts wing of the school during his walk. He looked back up at the man, never having seen him before today as he had never been in this part of the school. Realizing he had been silent for a bit too long he introduced himself.
"Hello Mr. West, I'm Lincoln, Lincoln Loud, sorry if I bothered you with my singing, I know I'm supposed to be at lunch but I-" the now identified Mr. West once again held up a hand calmly, effectively stopping the nervous boys rambling.
"It's nice to meet you Mr. Loud, may I call you Lincoln?" He asked politely, after a quick nod from the loud brother he continued, "okay Lincoln, first I want you to know that you're not in trouble, quite the opposite in fact." Lincoln's face took on a confused look, he had honestly expected to receive some kind of scolding before he was sent on his way. Never one to look a gift horse in the mouth he continued to listen to Mr. West with a bit more optimism.
"You see Lincoln, I not only direct the school's various bands, I also direct the school choir and I think you would make an excellent addition to our club." Mr. West said, finishing his sentence with a hopeful smile. It wasn't every day that you find such a good singer after all.
Lincoln's face switched from mild curiosity to shock, his ears not believing what they had just heard. When it came to his voice he had always considered himself decent at best and tone deaf at worst but here was the director of the choir offering him a spot on his club, apparently seeing something in his voice that he himself didn't. Looking up the orange wearing boy could see the Mr. West was patiently waiting for an answer. He thought about his answer for a moment before deciding to go with blunt honesty, realizing he didn't have anything to lose.
"Thank you for the offer Mr. West but are you sure you want me on your choir? I'm not really all that talented." Lincoln said, his voice going somber and his eyes looking downward as he finished his sentence.
In response Mr. West simply raised an eyebrow, wondering what caused the child before him to have so much self-doubt. Filing the question away for later he walked towards the downtrodden boy and went to one knee. "Lincoln" he said calmly yet sternly and was rewarded with the boy meeting his eyes. "What on earth would make you say that? I know you heard what I heard. That voice of yours is a gift, one few people possess, why wouldn't you want to use it? You were enjoying yourself so much just a few minutes ago." The entire time he spoke Mr. West kept a civil tone, not presenting himself as condescending in any way like so many of his colleagues tend to do. Luckily this seemed to do the trick as Lincoln took a deep breath and told the teacher everything.
He told him about his sisters, in what ways they were talented and how he could never be that talented. About how he would never earn a place in the Loud family trophy case and that he would always be a disappointment to his family for his lack of talent.
The music teacher listened to all of this without once interrupting, his respect for the young man going up several notches. Most kids his age would've complained and cried about how unfair the world was and place the blame on anything or anyone but themselves. Lincoln did none of this instead he said everything as if was an accepted truth, something that couldn't change, to Mr. West it was a morbid if not mature way of handling things. However he wouldn't let this young man leave without at least considering the possibility that he was talented. He knew for a fact unless his ears had stopped working when he walked out of his office that the boy was clearly talented.
Mr. West collected his thoughts clearly before laying a hand on the boys shoulder, effectively drawing his attention once again. "Lincoln, I know that it's not easy, being surrounded by people who may seem more talented than you, I know it's not easy to believe you can be as good as those people but I want you to know something." Lincoln's full attention was on him by the time he finished his sentence, curious about where this was going. After making sure the white haired boy was absorbing everything he said he continued.
"You Lincoln Loud have a talent, whether you accept that or not doesn't change the fact that it's true, the only thing that matters is if you want to use that gift." Seeing the boy stand a little straighter and looking a little more confident than before the teacher continued. "I have two kids you know, my son Barry is the fastest man on his college track team and my daughter Iris can write papers that'll make you laugh and cry at the same time, they use their gifts because they want to and using them makes them happy." Taking a breath the teacher continued, Lincoln now looking more optimistic than curious. "The question I want to ask you now requires an honest answer, do you want to use your gift and would using it make you happy?"
In a rare moment of his life Lincoln Loud truly considered the question that was asked of him, did he want to sing? Would it make him happy? It certainly made Lily happy whenever he sang a lullaby for her, her tired smile never failed to bring him joy. He imagined himself bringing a smile to all his sisters faces, not only them but his parents, his friends and his girlfriend. The image drew a genuine smile upon his face, he had always loved bringing joy to others, his sisters in particular and it looked like singing would be another way to do that. If nothing else that would be a reason to use his voice but would it make him happy, that thought brought him up short.
"I already know I like bringing them happiness that isn't the question, the question is, would it make me happy?" It truly amazed the middle Loud child how quickly the answer came to him, yes, yes it would make him happy to sing. His inhibitions and fears had always kept him from realizing that but no more, fears never stopped Luna from rocking or Luan from telling her jokes, they wouldn't stop him either. Whenever he sang, whether alone or in front of Lily he always felt happy or at peace. No matter what problems he was facing at the time, whether it be his pretend bad luck or the sister fight protocol, singing would always raise his spirits.
Now having his answer Lincoln locked eyes with Mr. West, who had been waiting patiently for his answer. The snow haired boy gave a nod that practically screamed conviction, "I'm in" he said confidently.
Mr. West gave a big smile of his own, "I'm glad to hear it Lincoln," the teacher handed him a piece of paper, "practice runs Monday to Friday from three to five, I'll see you there." At that moment the bell rang, signaling the end of lunch, Lincoln having not realized just how long he had been in the fine arts wing, panicked and began running to reach class on time with a quick goodbye to his new choir director.
Mr. West gave a goodbye as well along with a light chuckle, the teacher idly wondered how long it would take the boy to realize the note he had handed him was a hall pass. The man's chuckles abruptly died when his eyes landed on his mortal enemy that he had originally walked out of his office with, paperwork.
Lincoln had run halfway across the school, the fine arts wing being on the opposite end of the building from his classroom, before he realized he had a hall pass and significantly slowed down his speed. Now having a few minutes to think he considered what he had just done, in a few short hours he would be exploring completely uncharted territory.
It honestly terrified him to think about what might go wrong but he wouldn't let those thoughts stop him. This was his chance to be known as something other than 'the brother of the loud sisters' and he sure as hell wouldn't waste it.
XX Line Break XX
The remaining hours of school dragged on for eternity in the mind of Lincoln Loud, usually he was all too happy to learn new things but not with his first choir practice being after school. Thankfully the final bell sounded out and almost as if by magic the majority of the school cleared out. Lincoln immediately set out for the fine arts wing and more specifically the auditorium where the choir met for practice.
Before he could forget he shot a quick text to Lori telling her he wouldn't need a ride today and that he was staying behind for tutoring. It was believable and simple, he didn't want his sisters discovering his new club, yet. He loved them all beyond words and trusted them implicitly, he just didn't want them getting their hopes up for him when he himself wasn't completely confident in his abilities. Also the looks on their faces when he finally revealed what he was doing would cause Luan to laugh her ass off under different circumstances.
Right before he opened the doors to the auditorium Lincoln also decided he couldn't tell his best friend Clyde. He trusted him, just not around Lori, if she were to question him he would break within seconds. His secret girlfriend, Ronnie Anne was a different matter entirely, one he would have to consider later.
He put the thoughts of secrecy and deceit out of his mind as he walked into the auditorium, once inside he was immediately focused, not so much on what he was seeing but what he was hearing. Singing, looking at the stage he saw at least thirty or more kids separated into four different groups, their ages varying from fourth grade to high school seniors and with Mr. West sitting in a front row seat watching the kids warm up with a small smile.
The white haired boy took a deep breath, this was it his chance to prove he was just as talented as his sisters. With confidence he strode down to the front row, Mr. West noticed his approach and stood up to greet him.
"Good afternoon Lincoln, I'm happy you could join us" he said smiling genuinely making Lincoln smile in return. Before he could ask the teacher about his role in the choir or what he should be doing the man suddenly turned towards the stage and raised his hand. This immediately hushed all talk and warm ups. Lincoln was both impressed and afraid, impressed by how easily the man got the attention of his choir and afraid because their attention was now on him. He didn't let his fear show on the outside, instead he turned towards Mr. West, as did everyone else, as the man spoke.
"We have a new member joining us today, I want everyone to give a warm welcome to Lincoln Loud." While everyone gave him a warm greeting, in the form of a wave or smile, some seemed to recognize his last name. While this didn't seem to cause any overt reactions out of anyone it still set Lincoln on edge. The brother couldn't count how many times people approached him just to get an in with one of his older sisters. These attempts usually ended with black eyes for the would be suitors, much to the amusement of the middle Loud child.
Putting those thoughts away for now Lincoln returned the greeting and with that everyone returned to what they were doing before he arrived. A little more than confused he turned to Mr. West who just lightly chuckled.
"Don't mind them, they're just preparing for our fall concert in five weeks and it has them all a little excited." Lincoln merely nodded in understanding while also wondering if five weeks would be enough time for him to be ready for the concert. Mr. West seemed to possess some kind of empathetic powers as he reassured the boy.
"Don't worry in five weeks' time you'll be more than ready for the concert, in fact we haven't even selected the last few songs yet, something we'd be more than happy to have you're input on." This did the trick as Lincoln nodded his head, believing with enough effort and practice he would do great.
Mr. West gave a nod in return before turning back to the stage, "Now, let's begin the practice shall we?" With a nod Lincoln hopped up onto the stage, ready for whatever the practice would bring.
XX Line Break XX
It had gone far better than Lincoln could have ever hoped, everyone welcomed him with open arms. The practice began with Mr. West assigning a high school senior to find out which section of the choir he should be in. After a few minutes of warm up and a few tests for his voice it was a slightly surprised senior who concluded he had the range sing both alto and tenor. Once that was settled he joined up with the other altos to get acquainted and learn the ropes. Forty minutes later he was told to switch over to the tenors and do the same thing. At about four thirty the choir gathered together for group rehearsal.
He was a bit embarrassed at first, not knowing the songs yet and fearing he would mess up. Those fears proved to be unfounded as everyone was understanding and more than willing to help him. By the end of the practice session Lincoln had no doubt in his mind that joining the choir was a great idea.
He was still a little wary of the older guys in the choir but he would reserve judgement for now, they hadn't mentioned his sisters in any way so far after all.
The thought of his sisters brought up a topic he hadn't considered fully while he was walking home, his earbuds blasting music. When would he tell them about his new club activity? He didn't have any doubts about his voice anymore, so why was he hesitant to tell them. Well besides the fact he still wanted to surprise them, preferably a week before the concert for the maximum amount of shock. Besides the enjoyment of surprising his sisters he could only think or one other reason he would hide the choir from them.
Lincoln looked down as the reason came to mind, he didn't want to get their hopes up and then disappoint them. He considered himself talented now but did he match up to his sisters? In his mind the answer was a firm now, at least at the moment. Lincoln nodded to himself his decision made, he would let his family know a week before the concert, when he was sure he wouldn't disappoint them.
The orange wearing boy raised his head up, his walk took on a more confident stride. He would be ready, no matter how much effort and time he had to put into his singing. All he had to do was practice as much as he could with the song sheets Mr. West gave him in the next four weeks. That and he had to keep a secret from not only his friend and possibly his girlfriend but his sisters as well.
Lincoln felt a shiver go up his spine, four weeks suddenly felt a lot longer than before. It was time to start operation keep-choir-a-secret-from-his-sisters-so-they-don't-get-their-hopes-too-high-and-end-up-dissapointed-and-also-think-of-a-MUCH-shorter-name-for-this-operation to begin.
XX Three weeks later, Sunday morning of the fourth week"
"five days, I just need to make it five more days and then I can tell them," the only male loud child thought in exhaustion while lying on his bed. The last few weeks had seemed like an eternity, some of it in a good way, while others, not so much.
When it came to practice everything was going great! After a lot of hard work and encouragement from his choir mates he truly felt ready for the concert. At the same time he had also made so many new friends both inside his group and outside of it, his new friends thankfully understood the need for secrecy and didn't mention his new activities to his sisters.
Speaking of which, his sisters had been relentless the past three weeks. The white haired boy had made the excuse to his parents that he needed extra tutoring for a big test coming up. They believed this easily enough and raised no question about his extra time spent at school. His siblings on the other hand, knew something was up immediately when he didn't go to Lisa first for tutoring.
Lincoln heaved a hefty sigh, while free time in the Loud house had always been a rarity for him it wasn't even a remote possibility anymore. With his time now split between choir practice, time with his siblings, time with his friends, chores and solo practice he didn't have any time left in the day to do anything else but sleep. The only reason he had a free moment now was due to it being a Sunday and early at that. Even with the lack of freedom he had to admit, if he was being honest with himself he knew it was all more than worth it.
Though the young man could've done without his sisters trying their hardest to find out what he had been up to. They all thought he was in some kind of trouble or was the cause of said trouble, after the first week of 'tutoring' they all made separate attempts to find out what he was doing, except Lily of course.
Lisa had only attempted out of mild curiosity and concern for his well-being, she had merely asked him if what he was doing was at all dangerous, except she used much bigger words. After a hug and an assurance that he was more than safe Lisa never brought up the issue again.
Lana and Lola were a lot assertive in their approach, they had barged into his room and demanded answers with the threat of telling mom about some heinous act he committed. Though Lincoln Loud wasn't called the man with the plan for nothing and had been prepared with a deal.
For Lola he would butler ten of her teas parties in exchange for no more continued questioning, she immediately agreed. She had started with twenty but he had lowered it wasn't for those damn puppy dog eyes he could've gotten down to seven.
As for Lana, he had thought well ahead of time and had acquired the largest bullfrog he could find, which Lana immediately fell in love with. As soon as the amphibian was in her hands she left his room, no longer sure why she had entered in the first place.
The next attempt was made by Leni and unsurprisingly her plan was just like her, lovably simple and sweet. She had asked him nicely if he would tell her, she even through in over a dozen pleases and the puppy dog eyes. Lincoln would never admit to anyone but himself that the simple tactic had nearly broken his iron will. The white haired boy held out if only just and assured Leni that she would find out soon and just like that she was on her way.
Lucy had been a little more stealthy in her approach, she had hidden herself in the vents next to his room in order to spy on him. If she hadn't dropped her pen while writing poetry she would've found out. Once out of the vent and in front of an understandably miffed Lincoln she admitted that like all of his siblings she was concerned. Even in her usual monotone voice Lincoln could detect the hint of worry. After a warm hug and a promise that he was fine the darkest loud sister promised not to spy on him, at least until after he revealed his secret.
He was thankful that Lucy made her attempt so early, it reminded him to find and deactivate any cameras Luan may have hidden. After doing so he had gone to her and asked her nicely to delete and existing footage. She had done it after a promise that he would be the test audience for her new materiel.
Luna had a very similar idea to her roommate, she had placed a recording mic underneath his pillow. He would have never found it had he not been already searching for Luan's cameras. He had to give his sisters props, they were good but he was better. Just like Luan she had erased all footage for a promise to listen to her new song, it was a win-win for everyone.
Lincoln groaned into his pillow when he thought of Lynn's approach, you could call his athletic sister many things but a quitter was not one of them. She had been relentless the past few weeks, he shuddered as he remembered all the wrestling and Dutch ovens he had to endure. He was loath to admit that her plan was actually getting to him but with only five days to go it hardly mattered. That wouldn't stop her from trying though.
Lincoln gently rolled off his bed in nothing but his boxers chuckling while walked to get his shower supplies. He had found Lori's attempt the most humorous. At first she had feigned interest deciding that whatever it was he was doing wasn't as importan as texting her boyfriend.
That lasted all of about five minutes.
She immediately dropped the act, barged into his room and had threatened him with her usual human pretzel shtick if he didn't tell her what was up. Once that bluff was called she threatened to end his relationship with Ronnie Anne by telling everyone about it. This bluff was called as well when Lincoln pointed out how upset Bobby would be at how she had hurt his little sister. Lori had promptly left though not without a promise that she would find out his secret, she had yet to make good on that promise.
The white haired boy honestly couldn't figure out why his oldest sister wanted to find out so badly, when her usual response is to ignore everything but her phone.
He would never say this to her face but he had a suspicion that she was afraid he was becoming more independent and had less need of her. It made sense as he hadn't asked for ride from her in weeks, mostly due to his new addiction to long walks while listening to music.
As he exited the bathroom clad in a towel while feeling refreshed he pondered something. Why do his sisters want to know so badly? Had he made it too obvious, it was a possibility, he had noticed that choir was changing him.
It wasn't a bad change it was just... a change, he noticed how he enjoyed listening to music a lot more than before. That along with how he now couldn't get enough of hearing Luna play through the paper thin walls of the Loud house. Hell he couldn't even do most things without relating music to it, whenever he ran through the chaotic hallway of his house he would be singing 'one jump ahead' in his head. Or whenever he made any kind of food, for himself or his sisters he would sing 'be our guest.'
So yeah, he might have been a little obvious that something is up, it would explain the almost out of nowhere curiosity of his sisters. Especially when it came to Lynn and Lori, their attempts had gotten so bad that he had to scramble to find somewhere to practice that wouldn't be ridden with nosy sisters by the start of the second week.
He had thought of every possible place, he couldn't go to Clyde's Lori would interrogate him for sure. Plus he still hadn't told his best friend about his new club, only that he had to keep it a secret but he would tell him the same day as his sisters. Lincoln knew he had a good friend as Clyde was completely cool with it, he made a mental note to invite his amazing friend when he told him.
Though that left a problem, where would he practice while not at school, he knew the practices held there wouldn't be enough to get him ready. Fortunately he had found an ally in the most unlikely of places.
Mr. Grouse
The old man had been surprisingly cool ever since last Christmas, he even gave the middle Loud child the opportunity to earn some extra cash by doing chores around his house.
One day while he was chopping wood in the old man's back yard he had been so out of it that he didn't even notice that he was singing out loud.
But Mr. Grouse sure did.
When the friendly neighbor questioned him about his vocal talents Lincoln thought of lying but in the end decided to give Mr. Grouse a chance. His neighbor had proved himself to be at least kind if not understanding after all. So he explained everything, including his practice location problem.
To the boys immense surprise Mr. Grouse laughed, not a cruel or mocking laugh but an ironic kind of laugh. The surprises didn't end there as the old man revealed that he had been in choir as a child. The only difference being he was in the bass section, with this new similarity between them known the old man offered his home for the white haired boys practicing needs. He would take the fact that he nearly cried at the mans' generous offer to his grave.
The neighbor's home turned out to be perfect for his needs, his sisters still held a bit of residual fear for the old man and by extension his property, so they wouldn't dare spy on him. Along with that Mr. Grouse was appreciative of the company, so much so he gave constructive criticism and praise. He even offered to teach the kid how to play the piano, an offer he accepted gratefully. You could never have too many talents after all.
After his practice problem was solved he had only one issue left.
His girlfriend Ronnie Anne.
At first he planned to hide his choir membership but the girl but that lasted all of about ten seconds before he broke and spilled everything. His sisters he could handle, his girlfriend was another matter entirely, she had all too many ways of making him talk.
In her defense Ronnie Anne had only given him some light teasing about his club activities. After the teasing and grumbling ended he asked if she would want to come to his concerts. Instead of a yes or no she instead asked for a demonstration of all things, he had no choice but to comply.
Lincoln sighed wistfully as he walked out of his room, fully clothed, to the kitchen to fix himself some breakfast. His demonstration to his girlfriend would probably make his sisters shatter all the windows in the house with their squeal.
XX Flashback: three days ago XX
"You're sure you want me to sing for you?" The white haired child questioned nervously, sitting next to his girlfriend on the couch in her home.
"Did I stutter lame-o? I want to see if this concert of yours will be any good" the Hispanic girl replied without missing a beat.
"Well.. Okay, just don't get your hopes too high, I'm not really that good."
"I'll think I'll be the judge of that, now quit stalling."
"Alright, alright," the boy replied looking around the Santiago living room for a moment before spotting something that would help ease his nerves.
"Come with me" before the girl could form a protest he had grabbed her hand and led her over to the piano he spotted sitting in the corner of the large living room.
For her part Ronnie Anne merely raised an eyebrow a smirk firmly placed on her face, she was curious as to what her boyfriend was up to but decided to wait and see.
Lincoln placed himself in front of the gorgeous instrument and immediately felt calmed as he touched the ivory keys. Mr. Grouse had been an excellent teacher over the past few weeks and now was the time to put his lessons to good use.
"You playing or should I go get a chair?" The girl asked with a hint of teasing in her tone.
Lincoln looked at her with that smile she loved and patted the space next to him on the stool in response, Ronnie Anne rolled her eyes but played along and sat beside him wondering what he was up to. While his new place in the choir was a surprise the fact he could apparently play the piano was an even bigger one. She wouldn't admit it out loud, even with a gun to her head but she was actually excited to see what he could do.
"I need your help with this song and I know you know the words," he winked at her causing a slight blush to emerge on her face. She had a slight suspicion as to what he meant but she would have to wait and see.
Taking a deep breath Lincoln gently rested his fingers on the ivory keys and began to play. The song was instantly recognized by the young Latina making her even more excited. Lincoln continued to play unaware of his girlfriend's excitement and he began to sing.
"City of stars"
"Are you shining just for me?"
"City of stars"
"There's so much that I can't see"
"Who knows?"
"I felt it from the first embrace I shared with you"
Ronnie Anne was hooked the moment her boyfriend began to sing, she had expected more than what the white haired boy said but this had her completely floored.
The girl also teared up a bit at the choice of song, they had gone to see LaLa land last week on a whim and they had both loved it. City of stars being her favorite song she couldn't help but be touched that her boyfriend learned it in such a short time for her. Unknown to the girl is just how hard the boy worked to learn it after seeing how much his girlfriend loved it.
The freckled girl broke from her near hypnotic trance when she noticed her part was coming up. She took a deep breath and joined her boyfriend in song.
"That now our dreams, They've finally come true"
"City of stars"
"Just one thing everybody wants"
"There in the bars"
"And through the smokescreen of the crowded restaurants"
The couple couldn't suppress a little chuckle at that, remembering their first kiss.
"It's love"the girl sang beautifully staring into her boyfriend's eyes as she did so, expressing something she couldn't say yet with him returning the stare full force.
"Yes, all we're looking for is love from someone else"
"A rush"
"A glance"
"A touch"
"A dance"
"A look in somebody's eyes"
"To light up the skies"
"To open the world and send it reeling"
"A voice that says, I'll be here"
"And you'll be alright."
"I don't care if I know"
"Just where I will go"
"'Cause all that I need is this crazy feeling"
"A rat-tat-tat on my heart" Through the entire duet neither singer could wipe the smile off their face, not that they wanted to.
"Think I want it to stay"
"City of stars"
"Are you shining just for me"
"City of stars"
"You never shined so brightly"
Ronnie Anne's voice faded as the last note of the song was played, the couple looked at each other. The biggest of smiles adorned their faces and neither could stop chuckling at what they had just done, something that they would never let anyone else see.
"I didn't know you could s-" Lincoln began to say while turning to his girlfriend, before he noticed the tears in her eyes.
"Hey are you ok-" for the second time the white haired boy stopped his sentence short albeit for an entirely and much more enjoyable reason.
It took him a second to decipher what happened, apparently his girlfriend decided the song was a cause for a kiss. Once he realized what was happening he kissed her in return just as passionately if not more so. Blushes adorned both their faces as their lips locked, both children still feeling the happiness that came from their duet.
After a full five minutes they broke apart, their eyes never leaving the gaze they held with one another and their hands still gripped together tightly.
"I'm guessing that's a yes to whether or not you're coming to my concert" the boy said slyly still radiating a blush that would put tomatoes to shame.
Ronnie Anne giggled, something she only did in front of Lincoln and gently punched his shoulder "you fork of course I'll be there, I would've come to see you even if you were tone deaf." She said in her usual teasing tone before resting her head on her boyfriend's shoulder.
He couldn't help it, he gave off a loud "YES" before resuming the pleasant cuddling session with his girlfriend. It wasn't everyday she was this friendly after all.
XX Flashback end XX
Lincoln couldn't get the smile off of his face at the memory, no matter how hard he tried. Dates with his girlfriend usually had a tendency to be amazing but the last one topped them all hands down.
Lincoln got knocked out of his pleasant memory as his toast popped out of the toaster.
As he was preparing his breakfast he couldn't help but have a good feeling for the next five days, he was still a little nervous about telling his family. But with his girlfriend's support he felt as if he could run a marathon, telling his family the news would be cake walk.
Hopefully...
XX Five days later, Friday, a week before the concert XX
"Okay loud, deep breaths, they're you're family they'll be supportive they might tease but that's just them." Lincoln stood at the bottom of the stairs watching the majority of his family laze around the living room watching TV. The only ones not present were Lucy, Lisa and Luna which shouldn't be a surprise.
The eleven year old took another deep breath, he had been standing in the same spot for ten minutes, attempting to build up his courage. He had been nothing but confidence incarnate walking down the stairs but the second he spotted his family it all went away.
"Come one Lincoln, be a Loud, you already told Clyde and Ronnie Anne might as well tell them too." He had informed his best friend of the news and hour ago, the middle child couldn't see any possible way that his friend could run into Lori in that time. His trust was well placed as Clyde supported him one hundred percent, the boys fear of change strangely not making an appearance. Clyde had even asked if he could come to his concert along with his dads, after receiving a yes he wished his Loud friend the best of luck with telling his family.
And that brings us to the present.
He wanted to tell them he really did but he was afraid, he was normally so confident in himself but this was the first time he had joined something and had been good at it. He didn't want his family to be disappointed in him if his skills were found lacking.
The snowy haired boy sighed, it was now or never, Mr. West believed in him, Ronnie Anne believed in him, Clyde believed in him and Mr. Grouse believed in him. He could do this, the boy marched over to his family and stood next to his parents who were lounging on the couch. While the seven Loud sisters present were scattered across the living room.
Tapping his father on the shoulder Lincoln braced himself, this was it.
"Yes son?" His father asked turning his head to look at him along with his mother.
"Dad could you please call everyone down here, I have something important to tell you guys." he said, a little more nervously than he would have liked.
The father of eleven turned to his wife, they both shrugged seeing how nervous their only son was it must be important.
Walking over to the stairs Lynn Sr cupped his hands over his mouth, "Luna, Lucy, Lisa could you come here please." His voice easily reached his absent daughters' ears, having eleven kids presented a lot of opportunities to perfect a yell.
There was an explosion, most likely from Lisa's room, music turning down from Luna's and a quiet sigh from Lucy's room. In no time at all two of the three absent sisters were downstairs and sitting on the living room floor after being directed by their father.
"Good, now where's Lu-"
"I'm right here" said a monotone voice behind the Loud patriarch nearly giving him a heart attack.
After calming his breathing he directed his gloomy daughter to find a place to sit before he reclaimed his seat next to his wife.
"Okay everyone Lincoln has something important to tell us, Lincoln you have the floor buddy." Lynn Sr said with a neutral tone, something that was necessary to keep peace in this house.
Thanking his father Lincoln stood in front of the TV, all eyes on him with the exception of Lori and Lisa, texting and writing notes respectively.
Lincoln took one last deep breath, so far everything was good some of his sisters looked a little annoyed at being interrupted but that was expected.
Exhaling Lincoln decided to rip this band aid off already, "alright I want to start by saying that I know a lot of you think I have been hiding a few things for the past few weeks, that is true."
That statement caused everyone's full attention to immediately go to him, especially his parents since they had no idea what he was talking about.
He continued, "I told you that I was receiving extra tutoring for an exam, that was a lie, the real reason I've been staying behind at school recently is because... well..." He couldn't get the words out, this concerned everyone as they immediately assumed the news was bad.
Everyone started questioning him, from Lisa asking the most logical questions, his parents asking if he was in trouble, Lynn and Lori asking if he was being bullied and everyone else just asking ransom questions. He didn't know how Lucy could think he was sacrificing students to cathulu but he put that thought away.
Raising a hand he immediately silenced the entire family, silently thanking Mr. West for that trick he steeled his courage and decided to get it over with.
"I'm not in any kind of trouble, its actually the opposite this time" the disbelieving looks were a little disheartening but he could understand them.
"The real reason I'm staying at school for so long is because... I joined the school choir and our first concert is next Friday at seven." He closed his eyes waiting for the inevitable teasing and jokes but after a full minute he opened his eyes and found his family to just be in, shock.
"It's better than laughing I guess" he thought. He noticed that Lori was the first one to break out of her shock.
She looked at him with more than a little skepticism, it was understandable given his history. She decided to voice her opinion before the anyone else could speak.
"That's what you've been hiding the last couple of weeks, that literally it? You haven't committed a crime or anything like that?" He shook his head but his sisters skeptical look didn't leave and one by one the rest of the family got their bearings.
His parents looked proud, that by itself lifted his spirits tremendously, his sisters had rather mixed reactions on the other hand.
Leni seemed confused, probably not knowing what a choir was.
Luna looked like she was about to play a guitar solo, so at least she was happy, she proved this by giving a "rock on Lincoln!" Making him smile a little at her support.
Luan seemed in thought, probably trying to find a good pun for this situation.
Lynn looked like she just won the championship, she had after all been trying to find out his secret for the past few weeks.
He honestly couldn't tell what Lucy was feeling she just had her normal blank look on her face, which most likely meant something good.
Lola looked casual about it, like she had known all along, though that was unlikely.
Lana just seemed as confused as Leni, probably wondering why anyone would want to join what was basically a singing club.
Finally Lisa just had an inquisitive look on her face probably thinking of an experiment to do on his vocal chords.
Apparently Lori still had something to say as she beat everyone else to the punch with her question.
"So... you can sing?" She asked less skeptic and more curious.
He gave a confident nod, he wouldn't deny his gift anymore not after all the hard work he put in to perfect it.
"Prove it" Lynn said making him turn to her. The question wasn't mocking just challenging, his parents and sisters apparently loved this idea.
"Yeah! Show us what you can do dude" said Luna wanting to see her favorite sibling perform.
"It would be a nice break from the everlasting darkness around me" Chimed in Lucy making everyone a little more uncomfortable as per her norm.
"I concur with our sister units, mostly, it would be a rather interesting experience" said Lisa with her notepad and pen ready as if she was going to take a test.
"Yeah let's hear you sing Linky it would be like totes fun" Leni said now connecting the dots that choir and singing were related.
The rest of the Loud sisters joined in, excitedly asking him to perform for them, unknowingly causing a blush to form on their brother's cheek.
Lincoln looked towards his parents who both nodded excitedly wanting to see their sons talents first hand. He then looked at his sisters who seemed to be on the edge of their seats.
"Well, alright if you guys really want to hear me sing?" He asked/said, receiving an immediate and positive from everyone. He tried to think of a good song and almost immediately got one when he looked at his youngest sister being held by his mother, it was a song he often sang to her while her before she napped. It was also the first song Luna had ever played for him.
"Okay, here we go" he said, confidence obvious in his tone, having his family's support did wonders for his self-esteem apparently.
The young singer took one last look at his large family and seeing nothing but support and excitement he began, hoping beyond anything that they wouldn't be disappointed.
The wouldn't
"Carry on my wayward son..."
"There'll be peace when you are done"
"Lay your weary head to rest"
"Don't you cry no more"
"Once I rose above the noise and confusion"
"Just to get a glimpse beyond this illusion"
"I was soaring ever higher, but I flew too high"
"Masquerading as a man with a reason"
"My charade is the event of the season"
"And if I claim to be a wise man"
"It surely means that I don't know"
"Carry on my wayward son..."
"There'll be peace when you are done"
"Lay your weary head to rest"
"Don't you cry no more"
"Carry on..."
Lincoln slowly opened his eyes after he finished, having closed them when he started singing, what he saw wasn't what he had expected.
Most of his family sat with mouths agape and tears in their eyes, Leni and Luna were already crying in fact. Lisa was the only one with a more tamed reaction, her glasses had slipped off her face in shock. Even the normally reserved Lucy was sniffling every few seconds.
The only one not in shock or crying was Lily who had fallen asleep when she heard her favorite lullaby.
The nervous Loud took one more look at his family wondering what they were thinking.
"So, what did you guys think?" He asked tentatively.
It was like his question opened the floodgates, as soon as he was finished speaking Luna rushed up to him and hugged him as tightly as possible. The others took this as their cue and rushed him with the biggest group hug he had ever experienced. The only boy of the house couldn't make out what they were saying between everyone talking at once and the crying. Though the scattered "wonderful" and "amazing" confirmed that his family had enjoyed his song. The orange clad boy hugged them back just as tightly, he was beyond happy that liked his singing.
The entire time this was going on Rita was trying to comfort her husband while he cried over the beautiful song.
After fifteen minutes of nonstop hugging and compliments the siblings finally parted the hug, though some still had tears in their eyes.
Lori was no exception as she wiped away the last tear on her face, "not bad twerp" she said teasingly making her little brother chuckle along with her.
"Yeah Lincoln, you really know how to SING a tear to our eye *sniff*, get it?" Luan punned terribly earning her a mix of groans and a laugh from the target of the joke.
"You're singing at all of my tea parties from now on, got that?" Lola said her watery eyes betraying her demanding tone.
This continued on for the next five minutes, with the Loud sisters complimenting their brothers performance and he would sheepishly accept the praise. Eventually everyone was completely calm downed as they reclaimed their seats, as Lincoln had one more thing to say.
Or ask in this case, "so now that you've heard me sing, do you guys want to come to my concert next week?" He asked while rubbing the back of his head, a resounding and unanimous yes answered his question.
Lincoln smiled brightly at his beloved family, for the first time he felt like he truly belonged, he now had something that made him special. As his sisters and parents talked excitedly about the concert he discreetly looked over to the trophy case, a confident smile on his face.
"I'm almost there"
XX One week later, Friday, Day of the concert XX
"This is it Lincoln, show time" thought the white haired boy as he stood on stage, his fellow choir members standing behind him, organized in a specific way for the first song. Mr. West stood in front of them on slightly raised platform so everyone could see him. The curtains were still closed shielding the choir from the audience.
He was donned in the tux and black shoe combo the school provided for band and choir, he thought he looked quite dashing. At the moment the middle child was doing the vocal exercises he had been taught by his fellow choir mates.
Though that ended when Mr. West raised his hand making silence on stage an absolute. In the time he had been in choir he had only seen one student purposefully continue talking after Mr. West raised his hand.
It had not ended well.
"Okay everyone, the curtains are going to be raised any minute, does anyone have any last minute concerns?"
When no one raised their hand he continued, "okay then I just want to quickly say how proud I am of all of you, every ounce of effort you've put in over the weeks will show tonight." The teacher said all of this with a rare smile on his face, not that the man never smiled just that he never smiled so fully.
The rest on the students nodded their heads and smiled back more than proud of their achievements. Lincoln felt especially proud of himself and of his choir, they had practiced so hard and for so long every day that there was no doubt in his mind that this concert would go perfectly.
"Okay everyone the curtains are going up, get into your places." The teacher said as he turned around in order to address the audience as the curtains opened.
Lincoln shuffled a bit until he was sure he was in his correct spot, in front of the entire choir, the reason for this spot.
He had gotten the first duet, something that he was informed of on Monday and he had yet to inform his family, friends or girlfriend. He had to have some surprises after all.
He had tried out for one duet and one solo and it was to his immense shock, at first, that he got them both, then it was to his immense joy that he received both.
As Mr. West addressed the audience Lincoln eyes immediately did the same thing as every other choir member. He tried to spot his family, at first he couldn't see them but he did spot a man sitting far off from the rest of the audience writing on a clipboard, weird but not his family. He spotted them after he stopped looking for individual faces and instead looked for the biggest group.
They were all in the middle sitting oldest to youngest and with his mom and dad sitting in the center holding Lily. On the left and sitting next to Lori was Bobby Santiago with his little sister on his left. To the right and sitting next to Lisa was Clyde and his dads, each and every one of them looked excited, with the exception of Lucy and Lisa of course, but they remained in their seats. They merely waved excitedly at him from their seats, not being allowed to wave he merely nodded back at them smiling, he also sent a sly wink to Ronnie Anne making her smirk.
Lincoln chuckled to himself in thought, it was still funny to him how his family couldn't be contained at any normal public event but contained themselves if one of their own was in said event.
Seeing so many faces looking at him with nothing but pride and support filled him with determination. He would do them proud, he just knew it.
As Mr. West finished his introductions Lincoln idly wondered if they would enjoy the theme of the concert.
Songs of animation.
It had been a group decision, one that had greatly affected his taste in music over the last few weeks. They would be singing ten songs, two picked out by each section of the choir and the last two selected by Mr. West. The order of the songs was decided by the instructor in order to compliment the concert itself. That being said the teacher thought starting with something light would be good, so it was the soprano pick.
Lincoln looked next to him at the older boy to his right, whose name was Finn, who would be his duet partner for this song, normally a third person would sing another part but they couldn't find anyone who fit the part.
Lincoln was broken from his thoughts as Mr. West raised his hands signaling everyone that the show was about to start. As the man dropped his hand the chorus started singing a lively melody that was instantly recognized by the audience. The older boy turned to Lincoln with a disapproving stare, all a part of the show as Mr. West encouraged them to treat this as a play and have fun. Lincoln returned his stare with a cocky smirk, as the chorus picked up the older boy began.
"With an attitude like that I'm afraid your shaping up to be a pretty pathetic king indeed." The high schooler sang in a over exaggerated scolding tone making the audience laugh. Lincoln just turned to the boy cocky smile never leaving his face.
"Not the way I see it"
"I'm gonna be a mighty king
So enemies beware!
"Well, I've never seen a king of beasts"
"With quite so little hair"
"I'm gonna be the mane event"
"Like no king was before"
"I'm brushing up on looking down"
"I'm working on my ROAR" Lincoln sang this by letting out the loudest roar he could at the audience making them laugh, clearly loving the performance.
"Thus far, a rather uninspiring thing" The two of them played off each other perfectly, with the older boy singing in his scolding tone while he was acting like he wasn't listening.
"Oh, I just can't wait to be king!"
"You've rather a long way to go, young master,
if you think..." Lincoln had to give props to the tech crew, the entire song was made even more special as the lights switched colors and danced around the singers.
"No one saying do this"
"Now when I said that, I -"
"No one saying be there"
"What I meant was..."
"No one saying stop that"
"Look, what you don't realize..."
"No one saying see here"
"Now see here!"
Free to run around all day
"Well, that's definitely out..."
Free to do it all my way!
"I think it's time that you and I"
"Arranged a heart to heart"
"Kings don't need advice"
"From little hornbills for a start"
As the white haired choir boy sang this he gave the older boy a 'talk to the hand' gesture. The older boy gave him a mock angry look and turned around pretending to leave the stage. Only to be stopped as two other choir members blocked his way, all part of the show, to the crowds growing delight.
"If this is where the monarchy is headed"
"Count me out!"
"Out of service, out of Africa"
"I wouldn't hang about"
"This child is getting wildly out of wing"
"Oh, I just can't wait to be king!"
"Everybody look left"
"Everybody look right"
"Everywhere you look I'm"
"Standing in the spotlight!"
"Not yet!"
"Let every creature go for broke and sing"
"Let's hear it in the herd and on the wing"
"It's gonna be King Simba's finest fling"
Lincoln knew the reason he auditioned for the song, it wasn't because he wanted the praise or because he wanted the audience to notice him. No, it was because the song spoke to him. He would be the biggest sibling one day, he would have to be the big brother to his younger siblings and when that time came he knew he would be the best big brother ever.
"Oh, I just can't wait to be king!"
"Oh, I just can't wait to be king!"
"Oh, I just can't wait ... to be king!"
Once the song ended the audience immediately sprang to their feet in near hysterical applause. The choir didn't react outwardly as they still had nine more songs to complete, though it was quite clear to see that all of their eyes found their individual support groups.
Lincoln was no different, he immediately spotted them from his family to his girlfriend to his friends they were all clapping and cheering. He could see that Leni had to restrain Luna from rushing the stage and doing her traditional stage dive. The ashen haired boy didn't think he could be any happier at the moment if he tried.
After a few minutes of cheering Mr. West signaled the audience to calm down, apparently the one handed gesture worked on everyone.
Once the audience was settled the director turned back to his choir, pride evident in his gaze. He raised his hands once again and once again the choir outdid themselves.
After the initial song a boy and a girl, Star and Marco if Lincoln remembered right, both in ninth grade, stepped forward and sang "can you feel the love tonight." The tech crew did their magic as a pink spotlight was aimed at them through the entire song. Right off the bat choir and the audience alike saw that their 'performance' was a little too convincing. At the end of the song everyone was thinking the same thing, "JUST KISS ALREADY."
After that it was on to the next movie, considering it was November the movie selected seemed appropriate. Their performance of 'This is Halloween' was a crowd favorite especially with the slightly dramatic light show the tech crew put on. Lincoln could see Lucy especially getting into the song which made him all the more happy to sing it. Then a sophomore girl, Theresa, came up to sing 'Sally's song' which brought a tear to some eyes in the audience.
Then it was on to the next movie and after a soulful performance of 'Zero to Hero' it was once again his turn to sing, only this time as a soloist.
Lincoln knew this song had a special place in his heart as well, after all he had never truly felt like he belonged when he was among so many talented sisters. That wasn't the case anymore now that he stood on this stage ready to sing his heart out he knew. Looking at his sisters he knew that he belonged, for once in his life he felt like he belonged.
"I have often dreamed of a far off place
Where a hero's welcome would be waiting for me
Where the crowds would cheer, when they see my face
And a voice keeps saying this is where I'm meant to be"
"I'll be there someday, I can go the distance
I will find my way if I can be strong
I know every mile would be worth my while
When I go the distance, I'll be right where I belong"
"Down an unknown road to embrace my fate
Though that road may wander, it will lead me to you
And a thousand years would be worth the wait
It might take a lifetime but somehow I'll see it through"
"And I won't look back, I can go the distance
And I'll stay on track, no I won't accept defeat
"It's an uphill slope
But I won't lose hope, 'till I go the distance
And my journey is complete, oh yeah"
"But to look beyond the glory is the hardest part
For a hero's strength is measured by his heart, oh"
"Like a shooting star, I will go the distance
I will search the world, I will face its harms
I don't care how far, I can go the distance
'Till I find my hero's welcome waiting in your arms"
"I will search the world, I will face its harms
'Till I find my hero's welcome waiting in your arms"
The choir boy finished having given his all in his performance and putting every feeling he could into it.
The audience had apparently noticed.
The entire crowd stood and applauded him and his family and friends were no different, they clapped and cheered the loudest of all. Most of them had tears streaming down their eyes, Clyde included, he gave a big smile to them in thanks before returning to his original spout amongst the choir.
The show carried on in a similar fashion after that, with the songs having no less of an effect on the audience as the last few did. Just as they celebrated Halloween they celebrated the coming holiday as well. The twins of the choir, Mason and Mabel, stepped forward to sing 'When Christmas comes to Town' with the rest of the choir providing the angelic chorus. After that a senior by the name of Jake Long sang 'Believe.'
They moved on to Mr. West's movie and it was a finale to end all finales they started with 'Deliver Us' from the prince of Egypt. A junior by the name of Kim sang the solo part which made the audience want to tear up again in both joy and sadness. As for the big finish two senior boys were the duet this time, Lincoln thought their names were Danny and Tucker, came up to deliver a powerful performance of 'The Plagues.' The tech crew once again didn't disappoint as the flashing lights and effects made it look all the more dramatic.
Once the song was over the audience gave their loudest and most enthusiastic applause yet, complete with cheering and even more tears while the choir gave a bow. Lincoln could see that his family and friends were barely able to restrain themselves from rushing the stage and hugging him. He gave them a wave and a smile now that he was allowed to. Out of the corner of his eye he could've sworn he saw the man with the clipboard writing something while looking at him but he once again put it out of his mind.
The curtains closed as Mr. West finished his address to the audience the curtains closed and the choir rushed off stage to get changed and greet their proud family members and friends.
XX Line Break XX
Lincoln fresh from the changing room rushed to the cafeteria where the auditorium exit was located. He searched the crowd for a moment before spotting his family next to Mcbrides and the Santiago siblings.
He rushed over to them, once they noticed his approach they all visibly brightened and rushed to meet him in the middle.
The biggest group hug Royal Wood has ever seen occurred that night.
The blushing boy received many kisses, hugs, hair tussles, punches and compliments from all of them before he was released. The groups talked for a bit before deciding to go out for dinner as a group.
As they walked towards the exit of the school with Lincoln in the middle of the small crowd the freckled boy couldn't help but feel, for the first time in his life, like he accomplished something great.
XX A week later, Friday 4:45 pm"
Lincoln sat with the rest of the choir in the rows of seats in the auditorium, their director stood on the stage with his attention on a clipboard. They had just finished practice and were preparing to pack up when Mr. West stopped them and told them he had an announcement.
"First I want to say thank you everyone for your patience I'm sure like me you'd like nothing more than to go home." The entire club snickered Lincoln included, they had all grown used to the man's sense of humor by now.
"So I'll get this out of the quickly, unknown to some of you we had a judge in the audience at our concert." This was news to the white haired boy but looking back he remembered that man with a clipboard and figured he was the judge, not really a big deal all things considered.
Mr. West continued after seeing he everyone understood, "for everyone who joined us this year we don't inform new members to avoid any undue nervousness." Mr. West finished and all of the newer members nodded in acceptance, it made sense after all.
"Now as to why the judge was in the audience he was determining if our choir was suited for any of the awards that are handed out by the district." This immediately got Lincoln's full attention, he had been wondering when he would get the opportunity to win a trophy. While it wasn't the most important thing on his mind over the past few weeks it was still a present thought.
Mr. West not aware of the thoughts of his newest choir member continued, "that being said our choir had won two awards." He paused at this letting the tension build up in his students, much to the teachers amusement and the students annoyance.
After a minute he decided to have mercy on them, "The first award is for the best choir in Oakland county" the entire club broke into loud cheers at this. Some went as far as to hug in the Pines twins case and some even kissed when it came to the new couple of Star and Marco.
Mr. West let his students have their moment before raising his hand and as always it effectively silenced the rowdy choir. Once they were calm he continued, "the second award is for a single person, that being the best soloist in the county." The majority of the choir deflated somewhat, knowing there were only so many solos in the last concert.
Lincoln however held his breath and crossed his fingers hoping with everything he had that he would finally be able to place something in the Loud family trophy case.
"This award goes to... Lincoln Loud" the man finished after another dramatic pause. He smiled at his newest member and gestured for him to come up on stage to accept his trophy.
Lincoln could honestly say he had never run so fast in his life, the choir clapped politely including the soloist who lost. He was relieved to know there were no ill feelings against him as he stood next to Mr. West to accept his award. It was a glass music note on a marble stand that was as big as his hand stacked on top of each other. He reverently took it in his hands and looked upon it in absolute joy.
He had done it, he had earned his place, in more ways than one. He couldn't wait to get home and show his sisters and parents. He looked back towards his choir mates and lifted the trophy proudly and receiving a loud cheer in response.
For the second time in his young life he felt like he truly belonged, both in his family and in the club he had, at first, joined with hesitation.
It was like when Luna went to her first Mick Swagger concert, at that moment he knew exactly who he was and what he was.
"My name is Lincoln, I am a singer, a son, a brother but most of all I'm a Loud."
XX Chapter end XX
Damn that was a long one, I really hope you guys enjoy it. Give me your honest thoughts in the reviews.
Also sorry to anyone who has ever been in a choir if I got anything wrong. I've only ever been in band.
If you're wondering the inspiration for this chapter came from my HATE of the fact that the writers of the loud house gave every sibling a talent except for Lincoln. I could literally think of ten off the top of my head, I know they did it for a reason it's just a little upsetting to me.
Anyway once again I hope you guys enjoyed this and the next chapter should be out soon enough. It won't be nearly as long but the concept will be good, also a quick side not to everyone who enjoys different pairings in loud house fanfic don't worry that'll be in later chapters. This one was long enough without too much romance.
Until next time guys.