Greetings and welcome to: The Loud Scarecrow Special/OVA. Unlike the shorts, these kinds may or may not be canon to this fic. Something of a 'What if?'. Because as much as we might like multiple holiday specials, it may cause some inconsistencies if multiple similar events happened without a clear explanation. Not to mention the nonholiday related events but can still be outrageously influential to the current script.
But if along the line the concept seems appropriate, we can make it canon if it helps the plot. So, enjoy.
Disclaimer: See the first page. Guess the alluded episodes if you like. And SPOILERS for mention of the movie. You have been warned.
TLS Special/OVA (What if…?)
[Soulmates]
aka
[Sakumeo and Haliet]
(Because I can't think of a punnier title)
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In some possible future (just as a reminder) …
Kakashi was glad that his honorary ototo was safe somewhere else but here.
Sure, there were the metaphorical 'ghost of the past', maybe some terrifying Genjutsu and even a handful of the supernatural; but an actual spirit? He'll never hear the end of it from Naruto.
The middle-child thought Lucy was playing dress-up when he went for some private reading in the attic… That was before the soft-spoken girl called out to answer the door bell.
Kakashi should have noticed it considering that his company was a head taller but he chalked it up to her floating towards him! A quick scan drew him to a very old picture in a corner. 'So, this is Great Grandma Harriet. Petite, isn't she?'
"Hello, Lincoln. It's so good to finally meet you." Considerate too if the lack of coherent response did not deter the spirit's approach. "My, you really took after your father." And being no longer bound by the laws of gravity means her face is far too close for comfort as she inspects his.
What would Naruto do? Well…, scratching your head and laughing nervously might work. "Ah… thanks? Though the white hair may say otherwise." Kakashi was slightly put at ease when she softly giggled at his joking attempt.
"Lynn is a fine lad. But I was talking about the one who raised you to be the man you are now." Either due to shock or the theorized Yin property of her spiritual state, his disguise gave away to surprise that the ninja cannot mask.
Kakashi doesn't know how to respond that even with the cold touch on his cheek, Grandma Harriet looked at him with nostalgic warmth. "You bear the very likeness of my soulmate. You are indeed the son of the White Fang: my dear Sakumo."
xxxxx
Meanwhile…
"Hello, little one. Did you summon me?" Lucy can only look up to the floating apparition in pure unadulterated fear.
She was planning to use the things Haiku dropped off to make a memorial for Great Grandma Harriet. But the little goth remembered organizing one for a new member of the family… at least of her brother's side. It started with lighting a few incense sticks which soon went to candles and a small incantation, curious of the man who took care of Lincoln.
And maybe this should have been done with a clearer objective in mind. Because somehow, she is now standing before someone who looks like her brother now sans the mask.
Lucy remembered how Lincoln as Kakashi fought against warriors who retained their pride even in death and were incensed at being pawns against their will. Fearing the terrible repercussion, the girl fell to her knees and begged for mercy. "I'm sorry for disturbing your rest, Mr. Sakumo! I didn't mean to-!"
Thankfully, Sakumo was more of the benevolent kind. "It's alright, little one. No harm done." Lucy was surprised when she felt cool yet comforting hands lifting her back to stand.
Curiosity replaced that at his intense scrutiny. "You are Lucy, right?" The girl knows she shouldn't be surprised, guessing that he recognized her from the photo. But the name?
Soon curiosity returned with what he mirthfully said next. "It is an honor to meet one of her kin… Well, another that is. The semblance is very uncanny."
"May I ask who do I remind you of?" Lucy was worried when Sakumo was deep in thought before he let out a light chuckle.
A smile that was a mix of fond and nostalgic grazed his weary face. "My wife…, though we never officially wed. But my heart and soul will always belong to my Black Wallflower: my beloved Harriet."
xxxxx
"NANI?!/WHAT?!" The two most quiet members did what their loudest sibling wished that she could do unaided: Their screams shook the foundation of the Loud House.
And the chaos escalated after the unexpected earthquake drill which included but not limited to: normal people reaction to the paranormal, Lisa's meltdown due to encountering said paranormal, Luan's attempt at dark humor, Luna's unknowing attempt to replicate what her siblings done earlier, rectifying their belief… or disbelief of 'Lincoln's' favorite show and so on and so forth.
Eventually they calmed down, ironically by Lynn Sr. who despite being shaken, was happy to see his deceased grandmother. So, they sat down and watch dumbfounded at the eerily endearing interactions of the monochromatic doppelgangers.
Great Grandma Harriet was lovingly cuddling Lucy, thanking the young girl earnestly for reuniting the long-lost lovers. The elder white-haired man fondly draped an arm around an almost lifeless scarecrow who looks deader than the two lively spirits. Heck, the four of them looks like a spooky, kooky family portrait in itself.
"Okay… Looking past the creepiness, this is so romantic." Lori dreamily remarked.
"Yeah. It's even better than that vampire show…, no offense Luce." Lynn said to her creepy roommate.
"None taken. I too admit that a tale of star-crossed lovers reunited in death is so enchanting." Lucy wholeheartedly agreed.
"Ooohhh…, just like Romeo and Juliet." Leni excitedly voiced her example.
"But they're dead in the end." Luan commented, knowing quite well since she did play the part.
"But aren't they too since they're ghosts?" Not even Lisa can dispute that insight. What she did was the time discrepancies that happened. Sakumo couldn't explain either. From how he disappeared from the battlefield, to meeting the love of his life and regretfully leaving her to return to his duty.
"But I thought you married Grandpa." Lynn Sr. worriedly inquired. Despite her creepiness, both in life and death, he still remembered her kindness and couldn't see his grandmother being unfaithful.
"Please try to understand, Lynn dear. It was a very different time…" Grandma Harriet tried to explain that also the children may understand. She was still from an era where parents considered and at times arranged their children's future. The undead woman was thankful that she had more freedom than most at the time.
"…I am very fortunate that despite his very rough exterior, your grandfather was a very understanding soul. I had grown to love him… but my first was given to my soulmate." They aww-ed again at their intertwined hands and loving gazes.
"Your first what?" Lola curiously asked. Those who knows what was unknowingly implied had their eyes widen in shock.
It should not be possible since neither have blood anymore. But the blushes on both of their faces and his 'Tou-san's' grin that was toeing the line that got Jiraiya into so much trouble confirmed his dread.
"Alright! I'm going to take advantage of my adult privilege and get myself hammered! I'm extending my invitation to those above 18 if this is all too freaky!" 'Lincoln' headed for the door as 'Uncle Kakashi'. The older girls looked a bit worried when he considered the handy-girl's offer to borrow her tools.
"Be right behind you, sport! Let me just get my hangover brew." Their father followed after, carrying a container with something so foul-smelling that even Lana stayed clear away.
"Ah… Is it too early to start?" Lori meekly asked, the blush on her embarrassed face says how much she knows. Luna's raising hand was absentmindedly lowered by a surprisingly sensible Luan.
Their mother seemed to think it over before letting her come. "We'll supervise how much 'til it's too much. But you're the designated driver just in case."
xxxxx
"Alright, Linc! I had to recruit some of Lynn and Luna's friends..." Luan started out dramatically. Sure, she has to share the tv and some of her pies later, but the Fourth-in-succession needed the army against the alliance of the Sixth and Seventh Division.
"So, by the power of the 'Friend Privilege', I demand-…" Her declaration died at the dead giveaway when Lincoln and Lucy's friends were also quietly still.
Because 'Lincoln' was looking at them curiously while floating over the couch. "Oh, hi guys. Do you want to try grandma's special caramel popcorns?" Another 'Lincoln' coolly offered when he entered the living-room, followed by several bowls and someone who looks like 'Lucy' floating behind.
It was nice of them to take a handful and tremblingly said their thanks before bolting out. All that's left was a mixed bag of awed nerds and goths (and Ronnie Anne). Lucy was secretly planning to also bargain with the 'friend card' but this seems to be a much better deal.
Feeling all the questioning gazes of his guests, Lincoln started the introductions. "Guys, let me introduce you to my Great Grandma Harriet. Great Grandma, these are our friends."
"Hello, dearies." Their grandmother warmly greeted. It must be his imagination, but Lucy's small smile appears a tiny bit smug when she was regarded as the 'cool kid'.
"And him?" Zach pointed out, rapidly shifting between the two white-haired people in the room. Great… Something to stick to the boy's conspiracy board.
"Sakumo Hatake. Her lover back in the days and why my hair is white. Don't ask… It gets weird." The older kids seemed to get an idea when he looked and sounded so done.
"Are you here to haunt?" He'll ignore how Lucy's friend sounded a tiny bit hopeful.
"Now why in the world would we want to do that?" The dead man asked as he floated closer to the dark… but not evil spirit.
"We're perfectly content spending time with our loved ones." Emphasized by how her minute smile grew in the embrace of her soulmate. The girls (yes, even the likes of Lynn and Ronnie Anne) aww-ed at the spirits' loving interaction.
If you can't beat them; join them. The saying was applied as the jock, joker and rocker relented to join their younger siblings and co in watching 'ARGGH!'. Explanations for their long-dead relatives will come later.
"Sealing spirits nowadays are so fascinating." Sakumo said while popping a corn into his mouth. Where does it go was still a mystery. But 'Lincoln' left a bucket under just in case.
"Indeed. Back then it was chants, charms and chamber pots." Even the Mortician Club can't hide their disgust. "Other kinds of vessels were also used but we needed something that rhymes." That explanation made it more bearable.
"Reminds me of one that was a rice cooker. That was quite a dinner party." Yeah… Despite the weirdness, they're still family. And he wouldn't trade it for the world.
xxxxx
Ronnie Anne can only look at her friend and maybe-crush with extreme incredulity. "So let me get this straight: Your great grandmother found and eventually fell in love with this guy from another world..."
"And it sounds so romantic! Right, Boo-boo Bear?" Lori called out before asking her dance partner. There was an activity in her high-school that involves putting on their dancing shoes. And she is not getting any other partner, despite Bobby tripping on his own feet.
Mrs. Santiago having some experience was also a huge help. Though demonstrating some moves required two people, which 'Uncle Kakashi' helpfully assisted to some hidden joy… and jealousy. Ronnie Anne insisted that she's not getting left out. The consolation was at least her dance partner was the original…, not that her mother seemed to mind with that blush on her face.
But back to confusing topic: "…A ninja, who doesn't know how he got here nor how he got back…"
"…Lisa is still trying to find parallels with my experience." 'Lincoln' looked down at her pensively. The taller 'boy' skillfully compensated the height difference, but it's still quite an awkward but endearing sight.
"…And years later, he took care of her great grandson i.e. you, who somehow ended up at his place of origin..." Her eye twitched when he just gave a laidback shrug.
"… And now he's here; learning with your abuela to ballroom dance." The little Latina incredulously pointed to the two spirited tagalongs.
Grandma Harriet noted the positive reception despite their lifeless conditions which was explained due to the family's Latin culture. So, after the initial shock, the ghostly couple were welcomed to learn how to waltz.
"Do you know how screwy that sounds?" Ronnie Anne said while throwing up her hands.
"Yeah… I try not to think too much about it." 'Lincoln' just sheepishly scratched his head.
"But it does sounds… interesting. Almost like a forbidden romance fantasy." Maria thought aloud. Kakashi mused how the idea sounds like something he would read, unaware of the quick glance the Latin mother made.
"Well, your family line can't get any more interesting than now." Bobby commented, Lori swooning at the indirect compliment to ignore him accidently stepping on her foot.
"There was our ancestor: Lucille Loud. Who legend has it was related to the duke of Caledonia." Grandma Harriet contributed even when she was held in a low dip. How her bangs still covered her eyes, no one knows.
The idea was taken into consideration… That was before the mention of dragons as the family pet. "... And the Feathered Serpent was summoned by a kid wizard somewhere at the other end of the world. Sorry, I'm still getting around that Lincoln ended up being a magical, time-traveling ninja."
'Lincoln' tried placating his young- er… younger friend. "Now, now, Ronnie Anne. Legends are just an exaggeration of histories. Which was probably a way to make ancestries sound… cool."
"Who knows? Maybe past mysteries will be revealed to current descendants." The Jonin tried to take it back when he remembered the hidden shinobi history. But it's not like it would happen to his lively but ordinary family, right?
xxxxx
Much, much later…
"From feats I have heard and seen;
I believe you're worthy to hear our din.
Cousin; born from our line,
of whom I beseech.
I humbly ask of thee:
Will our hope be in thy reach?"
The Loud son regarded the foreboding apparition with trepidation before glancing to the side. "Me and my big mouth."
XXXXX
With this AU, there is nothing much for Lincoln to prove that he is special nor does he care for the attention. So, the question is how the family will end up in the highlands. And can we make it more epic? Ideas and suggestions will be taken into consideration. Keyword: Consideration.
And some other things:
-In case of an actual Halloween episode, what would Lincoln/Kakashi dress-up as? I had an ironic idea where he goes as a scarecrow. And after borrowing Lucy's scythe, wondered why kids are running away and calling him the 'Harvester'. So not to be left out; his family and friends other than canon costumes.
-How about man's best friend? Old or new pack? Ja ne.