Welcome back to QTQ. Today we're taking a break as the few chapters were intense. I had to cut this chapter in half...again. I have other things to do and I didn't want to keep you guys waiting. Everything will take a breather for a while. I know you guys loved the intense chapters lately but those are hard to do. Furthermore, those chapters served their purpose for the story with the return of Tetherby, Micheal conducting his plans and Bumper's revenge sub-plot. Don't worry I haven't forgotten about that. Things will be a bit more lighthearted for a while. Therefore, more shipping and or funny moments. Speaking of which. The Poll.
We have 12 unique voters. The top three winners are Taylor/Bully QT with 7 votes, Jancey Yates with 6 votes and Tabby with 4 votes. Their rating doesn't determine what order I post their chapter. It's how I feel when I start writing.
I finally posted a new story called Crystal Prison. It's the My Little Pony: Equestria Girls that I wanted to do for a long time now. Don't judge me. The story follows Dusk Shine (Gender Bend Twilight Sparkle) during his time at Crystal Prep Academy as the Friendship Games are right around the corner. He's forced to compete due to Cinch's demands. What will occur? Will he learn about the magic of friendship? The first chapter is already posted. Check it out and tell me what you think. Those who Lincoln becoming darker and colder. This is for you.
QOTD: Oh man what do I say? I got it! I'm thinking about getting commissions. So which moment or moments do you want fan art of whether it's a comic or a single picture? Given this story with 20+ and over 100,000 words. There's no shortage. Lincoln coming out of the pole. Haiku and Cookie chasing him.
NiteOwl18: Yeah this chapter was dense. It's about time that Haiku won after getting so close.
Isom: What's your favorite Loud Lore from the chapter? I won't make any promises for Benny. Don't worry, Bumper Jr will get his downfall. That's why I did the time travel concept as it would explain so much.
ThanosGaming: I'll probably do those moments. I don't know when.
Bryan Pacheco: Lincoln doesn't wear the Ouroboros symbol. Micheal does and yes he's Lincoln's descendant.
Mr. Haziq: I would say Haiku's the leader with Mollie being the second in command. Sid's attraction will come in handy when Lincoln visits Ronnie again. The weird thing about introducing girls into the boy scouts is that it actually happened.
DragoonKnight Agnim: I still can't get over that Dragons exist in the LH verse. Like holy shit. Also, no Randy Cunningham isn't Lincoln's cousin. However, Rita's cousin Alex will make an appearance soon. I never played Mass Effect but man do I love it. I actually had Lincoln go through multiple people from the start. Tetherby and Bumper Jr. are the first on the list.
Lincoln strolled through the hallway along with the younger half of his sisters. They were in defense mode after what earlier this week with Tetherby. The twins wore their hall monitor uniforms while Lisa held his hand and Lucy trailing behind him. He sighed at the bewildered, worried stares he received from his schoolmates throughout the hallway. It was probably on the news last night. Lincoln stopped at his class door. "I'll see you girls later," He turned to his younger sisters. They hugged him tightly. "Love you girls too," A small smile cracked on his face. "Lola. No violence," Lincoln ordered the feminine twin. She whistled while looking off to the side. They released their hold on him to go to class except for Lisa, who stayed a bit longer. "Head to class, Lisa. I'm okay," He consoled the scientist while patting her head. She pouted as she let go of him. The Loud siblings stood in the hallway for a few moments. Lincoln swiftly padded on her down, making sure there was no scientific fuckery on her being. Okay, she's clean for now.
"Are you done?" Lisa asked in a dull tone. Man, no trust from her brother. Lisa. You caused a minor nuclear disaster and always have something on you.
"One second," Lincoln commented before raising her in the air and shaking her gently. Nothing fell out. Now she's clean. "Now I'm done," He placed her down. She readjusted her glasses before going to her classroom. Lincoln turned the door. "Oh boy," He sighed before opening it and walked inside.
"BUDDY!" Clyde shouted as he tackled-hugged him. Lincoln was prepared for this attack as the force pushed him back slightly. His worry-fueled tears stained his orange shirt.
"Clyde, Clyde, Clyde," Lincoln attempted to communicate to his best friend as the rest of his friends surrounded him. Clyde continued to sniff and mutter. He sighed before pushing Clyde off him a bit. Lincoln placed a hand on his shoulder then smacked him on the cheek.
"Ow! The heck, dude?!" Clyde yelled, rubbing his stinging cheek. His watery red eyes glared at him.
"Sorry, I already had enough from my sisters yesterday," Lincoln revealed to his friend. His sisters barely left him time to use the bathroom in peace. "Was it on the news last night?" He walked to his seat as they gave him some room to move.
"Nah, Stella told us from her grandmother," Zach spoke up. Of course, she did. Grandmothers tend to gossip a lot of times. Lincoln sat down.
"What was the deal with you and this Tetherby guy," Stella brought up, wanting to know the details. Granted that she's a middle of season three addition while Lord Tetherby hasn't been seen since early season one.
"I literally don't know," Lincoln exclaimed as he took out his notebook and pencil case. "I haven't seen him since that Limo sweepstakes,"
"The one where you had to eat a ton of mustard," Cookie quizzed him. He nodded. She gagged at the sheer volume of mustard that he had to consume to win the limo ride.
"That's the last time I saw him before that. He's like that one-shot character that's only relevant for one episode and never sees again," Lincoln shrugged. "Yelling about how it's all my fault that he lost everything,"
"You didn't do anything," Liam commented at the absurdity of Tetherby's mindset.
"I know, right?!" Lincoln shouted in annoyance. Like damn, what did he do? "Seriously, what was his problem. Was he mad that me and my sisters squirted mustard at him?" They shrugged at his answer. That begs the question. What happened to Kirby? Don't worry; he's still alive and healthy. I won't be that cruel in killing off random characters that we haven't seen in ages. However, I will be killing off two or maybe three characters in the future. Relax. I'm not killing off major characters. Just ones nobody really likes. No, it's not Bumper Jr. He'll go through hell, yes, as that'll last a few chapters, but I'm not killing him. Morag is safe, too, relatively speaking, although I have to get through the rest of seasons three and four until then. Alright, fuck it. Tetherby is one of them. Yep after this chapter or whenever he shows up again. Tetherby is out of here. His purpose in the story has been fulfilled.
"Sooooooooo Polly was with you right," Rusty brought up as they just stared at him. Really Rusty. "Bet she misses me," He rubbed his fist against his chest with a smirk. The girls shared a blank look remembering Polly's opinion of him.
"She didn't mention or ask about you," Lincoln replied, causing Rusty's frown. Some of his classmates snickered at his expression. That should stop his 'ladies man' persona, at least for a while.
"Not even a little bit," Rusty questioned, pinching his fingers close together. The bell rang, signaling for the start of class. Lincoln shook his head as Agnes went to the board. The chalk scraped against the green board while she wrote today's lesson. "Damn it," He grumbled in a gruff voice while giving Lincoln, who was writing in his notebook, a slight glare.
A few hours passed as Lincoln, and his classmates walked to the cafeteria. "Lincoln," Haiku's soft and worried voice called out to him. He turned to it as the Goth rushed to him, brushing past his friends to get to him. "I heard what happened. Are you okay?" Her smooth hands grasped his own. He glanced behind her as Lucy was there. Lincoln sighed internally before an alarming thought popped into his head. Oh crap, does Ronnie Anne know? She's going to yell at him later today.
"Yes, I am fine," Lincoln replied to appease the Goth. He didn't want to get chased again. She sighed in relief as a gentle smile had its way on her pale face.
"Thank the spirits," Haiku muttered as she snaked her arms around him. A subtle lilac aroma brushed his nose. "I'm glad that you're safe, Lincoln," He returned the hug with scarlet cheeks. His friends gave him the okay sign while Lucy feverishly scribbled in her notebook with an ecstatic grin. She sees it with her own covered eyes. Marvelous. "Come on, let's find a table," Haiku released, walking by his side. Rusty rolled his eyes at this interaction. He beat up some crazy person. Big deal. The Rustman could've done the same thing more awesomely. Yeah, whatever you say to help you sleep at night. Lucy observed this behavior as they strolled into the cafeteria. They found one amidst the chatter, with each Goth taking a seat on Lincoln's sides.
The elementary students chattered amongst themselves. Lincoln quietly wrote in his black and white notebook. Lisa needs lore for her army. She using the Mechanicus and Necrons but needed an actual reason on why, though. Oh! He got an idea. His pen wrote down his thoughts. During the great sleep, there was an issue as their planet was a fringe world with mainly Warriors, causing the Necrons to lose their memories. Yeah, that'll work. Haiku glanced at his book, pausing to consume her salad. Several linear drawings with some paragraphs detailing names and potential background. Is it for his Ace Savvy comics or something just for fun? Well, it won't hurt to ask. "What are you drawing, Lincoln" She leaned in to get a closer look while brushing some of her raven hair out of the way.
"Just drawing some 40K lore for Lisa's army," Lincoln replied, showing her what he's got in his bag.
"You started playing 40K, dude," Liam questioned while eating his pepperoni pizza. Finally, no tuna this time. Lincoln and Lucy nodded. "What faction do you guys play,"
"Lisa plays Necrons and the Mechanicus," Lincoln explained, showing him the spooky scary space skeletons. She likes green and robots.
"Hail the Omnissah and Earth is a tomb world," Zach placed his hands together in a prayer gesture.
"That'll happen when the Orks stops fighting each other and unite, or the rest of the Tyranid hive fleet arrives," Lincoln scoffs at the redheads claim.
"English, please. We don't speak nerd," Mollie groaned at the two. She and the rest of the table have no idea what they're talking about except for Lucy. "Lincoln. Elaborate," The sassy brunette pointed to the Loud male child. He held up his notebook.
"Which one should I do first," Lincoln suggested to her. Mollie's eyes bounced between the skeletons and the metallic weirdos in red robes.
"The skeletons," Mollie remarked, finally making her decision.
"The Necrons originally called Necrontyr are an ancient race of space-faring humanoids but were plagued short life-spans due to their sun's radiation and home planet's condition. They went to the Old Ones, the first known space-faring species, seeding many species and asking for their secrets for their impressively long life spans. The Old Ones refused, so they declared war on them, giving them something to fight beside themselves," Lincoln explained. Okay, a super ancient race of humans who declared war on the Precursors of the known universe because they didn't want to share their secrets. "The Necrontyr got beat due to the Old Ones having the Webway, which is like fast travel in the simplest terms. Soon they found something eating or sucking their sun," They blinked owlishly.
"Something was eating their sun," Jenny commented. He nodded.
"Like a freshly baked muffin," Lincoln replied. "They made contact with these Star Vampires or C'tan in their language and made a deal based on their mutual dislike over the Old Ones,"
"The C'tan were masters of the material world, giving them the power to defeat the Old Ones and their allies," Lucy interjected. "They were offered immortality by the Deceiver. Yes, I know, but this was after the occurs next," The young Goth raised a hand at the stupidity of Necrontyr. "These gods were given bodies of living metal, therefore, offered the same to them. The elites were given the best of the best with their individuality intact. At the same time, the lowest caste got the bottom of the barrel, becoming soulless automatons. Well, the price for these new bodies was their souls," She said hauntingly. "Their gods found them to be delicious. Eventually, they rebelled against the C'tan with an unyielding army and technology so advanced that it might as well be magic. The Necron successfully captured and shattering them into shards. The Silent King ordered his people to sleep for sixty million years before going on his self-imposed exile," Lucy concluded.
"Dang, so what about the guys in robes," Liam pointed out.
"The Cult Mechancius. They're 'human' in a way. These guys got their start on Mars after we finally colonized the solar system and other parts of the galaxy. However, massive warp storms prevent safe and stable interplanetary travel forcing countless planets to be isolated for five thousand years," Lincoln continued. Their hearts dropped as the length of time. Five years yes, but five thousand. "Mars already had different culture from Earth, but the isolation sealed it. They began to worship machines and technology. I'm talking about saying prayers, rites, and incantations just to change a light bulb," A whole ritual to change a light bulb?!
"Think about our parents pray for the car to work or when the printer wants to be lazy," Lucy commented. I swear printers know when you have something essential to print and decides not to work.
"Everything that was science became a religion to where they forget how it works," Lincoln continued the story.
"Why didn't they have a manual or notes. Something?" Stella replied. Come on, it's common knowledge to keep handwritten notes on hand.
"They did, but the men of iron rebelled and destroyed most of their STCs," Zach added. They gave confused looks. He rolled his eyes. "A.I rebellion," Zach sighed. Ohhhhhh, that makes a lot of sense. "An STC is a hyper-advanced piece of tech designed for when humanity decided to travel the galaxy. Before FTL travel, all the skilled technicians would be long dead before they reached their designated planet. It allowed them to build virtually everything and anything as long as they have the proper materials regardless of their skill."
"Anything," Stella whispered. They nodded. STCs are wild.
"It had to because they didn't have time, especially since they didn't know what was on the planet. Everything was rugged, ready, and reliable. We can build space ships, generators, and housing with an STC," Lincoln gestured to the group. "Why go to school and learn when you can ask the STC on how to build it?" He shrugged. STCs is Siri on steroids. "They're so valuable that two space marine scouts found one for a knife and were each given a planet," A record scratched in the minds. A planet...for a knife.
"Hold up, hold up, hold up," Mollie gestured, her hands pushing them back and forth. "They just have planets laying around like hey, here's a planet," Her eyebrows were raised in suspicion.
"Yeah, pretty much," Lincoln and Zach replied nonchalantly as the group tilted their heads with open jaws. "It's not like Star Wars where planets are rare. Planets are destroyed and invaded every week, usually by Exterminatus. No big deal," Zach shrugged at the callousness of the universe.
"Extermin-what?" Mollie questioned. What is the pseudo-Latin mess? It's called Gothic, you uncultured swine.
"The legal decree that a planet is too far gone to be considered saving. They just destroy it along with everything and anything on it," Lincoln answered in a soft tone. The table was silent was the sheer lack of remorse in the universe. Untold billions are annihilated by the whim of a single person or group. You can be minding your own business, then a flash covers the sky. Everything and everyone you love. Gone. With a press of a button. "It's usually a last resort," He remarked in an attempt to ease their alarmed expressions.
"Tell that to Kryptmann," Zach scoffed at the mention of the character. Destroying planets like it was going out of style.
"Who has the power to just delete a planet," Stella mentioned. The authority to wipe out a planet. That's just...Woah.
"The Inquisition is the secret police with virtually unlimited authority. They go to a planet and stop voting if they wanted to," Lincoln explained to the group who had bewildered looks.
"They can do that?!" Mollie muttered as Lincoln nodded. Stop voting plain and simple. "Can anyone stop them," That's too much power for a single group to have. Agnes gave them unabridged history lessons. They know what can help.
"Other Inquisitors and that you technically don't have to lesson to them. It's better for you and the planet if you do what they," Zach continued. Unlimited authority, not power. Got it. "Plus, you're chosen or recruited by an existing one. You can't go to school for it," They sighed in relief at this exclusive club.
"There are three main factions. Xenos deals with aliens. Malleus deals with daemons and chaos. Yes, there are actually daemons, and they're active. You'll love this faction, Haiku," Lincoln grinned at the Goth. "Finally, Hereticus deals with internal corruption. It's the largest because the Imperium is a galactic empire. The planetary governor can rule the planet as they see fit as long as they follow the rules and don't do anything crazy," Anyway, they see fit?
"So things like the Hungry Games, Purge, and Handmaidens tale is perfectly okay?" Haiku questioned at the grimdark setting.
"Handmaidens tale yes, but the others not so much," Lincoln replied after thinking for a moment. "The ones are the Space marines," He showed some of them of his characters.
"Where the lady space marines," Rusty acknowledged as it's only dudes. Lincoln and Zach took a deep breath.
"I got this, Zach," Lincoln raised his hand to the conspiracy theorist. He nodded while Lincoln took another breath. "Warhammer 40k was made in the late 80s to early 90s, where the primary demographic was males. This was before strong and memorable female characters fully made their debut. Females not being Space Marines have been coded in the lore, and doing so would completely ruin everything about them. It's because the Gene-seed, which are 19 implanted organs, isn't compatible with females. Several characters, such as Malacdor the Sigilitte, the Emperor of Mankind's right hand, told the Emperor while creating the Primarchs. They're 21 bioengineered demi-gods designed to lead armies and conquer planets to make some females balance out temperaments. He was proved right due to the Horus Hersey, which I'm not doing. There's like 50 books documenting what happened from different perspectives," The table listened to him rattle off all in a single breath like dude take a breather. "Another character named Fabius Bile, a member of the Emperor's Children the 3rd under Fulgrim. Think about a bunch of aristocrats. Unfortunately, Fulgrim rebelled alongside Horus, and his Legion worshipped Slannesh, the Chaos god of excess, lust, pride, and perfection. Bile was a surgeon who modified his brothers to 'perfect' the God-Emperor's work. Lots of weird mad scientist crap. He commented the Emperor missed on not making females capable of being Space Marines," His voice grew into a higher pitch with glowing red cheeks. "Space Marines are called Battle Brothers, so it's idiotic to include females in it based on their name. Same with males not becoming sisters of battle. However, they can be anything else. They just can't be Space Marines," He emphasized before his face landed on the table. They watched him take several breaths.
"You good there, dude?" Zach asked. Lincoln lifted his thumb. "Plus, they're recruited young like eight to twelve,"
"So we can Space marines then," Rusty asked. Ah yeah, super-soldier, here we come.
"Well, yes, but actually no," Zach declared while Clyde gave Lincoln his inhaler to reclaim some oxygen in his lungs.
"Well, you can't, but I know I can," Rusty bragged while Zach rolled his eyes.
"No, dude, they're taking kids like Eren, Itachi, Kakashi, Zabuza, Killua, Gon, Madara, and Harshirama. Full-blown beasts during times where living to this age is a major accomplishment," Zach explained while they gulped in terror. That's the people being recruited. Yeah, they won't survive. "How they recruit varies being they straight up abducting kids, going to schools or have competitions. These competitions are like the Chunin exams. You survive or die," He concluded.
"Woah, Nelly," Liam whispered, voicing the table's thoughts while Lucy went into her black bat bag and received her tarot cards. "What you got there?" The farmboy acknowledged Lucy shuffling her deck.
"Tarot cards," The young Goth responded. She placed the deck on the table. "Shall I read your fortunate?" Lucy considered.
"I don't know about that. Seems like they tell me what I want to hear," Liam shrugged at the idea while scratching the back of his head.
"The future isn't set in stone. Think about it as more of a suggestion or something to consider in the future. You can learn something about yourself and what you want," Haiku brought up.
"Alright. Let's see what you got," Liam agreed after thinking about it for a brief moment. Lucy shuffled her deck some more.
"I can go up to three for today," Lucy replied with her hand on the top of the deck.
"I'll try one to test it," Liam answered while Lucy drew a card. A man with his family relaxing in a vineyard.
"The ten of coins in the upright position. Wealth, financial security, family, long-term success, contribution," Haiku explained. "Financial success is soon thanks to being involved in the community,"
"Well, shucks. We had some harvests lately plus the farmer's market and food banks," Liam smiled.
"Your farm's generosity is saving lives thus shall be rewarded handsomely," Lucy declared to the farmboy. The rest decided to partake in the tarot readings. Five cups are in the reverse position for Clyde as he needs to learn to forgive himself and move on, but Judgment's card told him that he's called for more incredible things. Stella with the Nine of wands in the upright position for her courage and resilience complemented by the Queen of swords. Direct communication and boundaries. Girl Jordan held the Nine of cups and Three of cups. She'll be content that a wish will be granted calling for a celebration in the name of friends and unity. The Six of wands with Mollie's self-confidence emboldened by Strength, highlighting her courage and influence. Zach bears the Eight of wands alongside Justice calls him to action unleashing a chain reaction to uncover the truth. Haiku was chosen by the Empress for elegance and compassion for others alongside the Queen of Wands in respect of her self-confidence and esteem. Lucy gave Lincoln a slight smirk while he narrowed his eyes at her. Was it because he got the Emperor last time? Cookie was enchanted by the Magician as everything she needed was at her fingertips. The infinity symbol glowed for a brief moment. All she has to do is grab it. Another card was flipped. The Ace of Cups detailing her love and compassion overflows through her endeavors. Jenny was graced by the Knight of Cups, showing off her beauty and charm.
"Give me all three...Lucy," Rusty boasted while rubbing his hands before hesitating for a second to remember her name. Lucy placed three cards in front of him.
"The Six of Pentacles shows giving, receiving, and sharing wealth shortly. Dude and Duds shall see an increase in revenue. Perhaps a second location," Lucy explained while Rusty smirked. More money equals more ladies. Plus, a second location. Oh yeah, bringing more out of town. Variety is the spice of life. "Next is the Knight of Swords. You are a man of action and ambition, but be careful and think before you act," Her pale hand reached for the third card when the bell rang. "Shall I tell you the final one?" There's still some time left.
"Nah, I'm good, thanks," Rusty waved off with his bag on his shoulders. The rest of the table and cafeteria got their bags and strolled to the exit while Lucy and Haiku picked up the cards. Lucy attempted to flip over the card when her hand tingled. Something wasn't right.
"Are you alright, Lucy," Haiku asked with the rest of her deck in her hand as Lucy rubbed her palm. Her eyes focused on the card. It emitted an ominous aura, and she summoned a spirit, so that's saying something. She flipped it over. "The Five of Swords," Haiku whispered in a hushed tone. "Conflict, defeat, and winning at all cost," The goths stared at Rusty. Two cards slipped out from the deck. "Ten of swords" A man lying face down with ten swords in his back. Betrayal, loss, and a card aligned with Rusty as he walked out. "Six of Swords" The card placed itself behind Lincoln. She picked it up. Another card was stuck to it. "The Chariot in the upright position," A tense silence echoed in the lunchroom. Lincoln's determination will result in a successful transition. Into what that is?
"We better get to class," Lucy muttered while Haiku nodded. They picked up the rest of the cards. "Haiku…" She asked her dear friend with the taint of fear and uncertainty in her young voice. The older Goth embraced her for a few silent moments. "Okay," Lucy trusted her as she smiled. The two went their separate ways.
Now, what has become of the former Lord Tobias Tetherby. Well...see for yourself. Oh, wait, this is fan fiction, not a cartoon. Sigh. Tetherby wandered around his white padded room. His low frantic voice echoed throughout the room as he muttered to himself about the future. People using bullets as a form of currency. The United States dissolving with each state becoming its own county. Some fared better than others, along with some being absorbed into other countries like Canada and Mexico. Mutated mechanical monstrosities that used to be humans corrupted by detonated several nuclear plants. He couldn't remember that was before, after, or during the Civil War when a Presidential nominee refused to admit defeat. Tetherby attempted to grab what little hair he had, but they put mittens on him. He shook his head as his wild beady eyes stared into the white light overhead, trying to make sense of it all. Micheal viewed his behavior with a blank expression from the security room. Tobias has been doing this all night. Micheal focused on the bandaids and medical tape on his head. The old fool attempted to himself. Oh no. There's still a plan for you, Tetherby. Several knocks erupted from the sturdy door behind him.
"Micheal, your shift's done," Officer Schoffner called out to him. He nodded as he exited the room. "Head home you had a long done," Micheal saluted her before heading to the parking lot.
"Micheal. A Ripple has been enacted," His trusted A.I companion mentioned to him. His cold eyes scanned the area before heading into his car, checking his 'phone' to observe the ripple. "It seems to be either an upper beta or low-level alpha," She predicted.
"Let's see for ourselves," Micheal remarked. The ripple was of Ms. Bernado, the drama teacher for Royal Woods High school. She is a tall, tan-skinned woman with short brown hair and purple eye shadow. The amateur actress wears a white collared shirt with a dark purple jacket, a tan scarf, jeans, and brown boots. He raised a brow at her current attire. Whatever. The artistic ones are weird. It didn't matter as it's all about to change. Ms. Bernado was cheerfully greeting her students when her form became blurry and incomprehensible, like a glitch in a Bethesda game. She didn't feel a single thing, nor did anyone in the immediate vicinity noticed. Ripples are instantaneous metamorphosis. Faster than a human blink. Far beyond what machine can capture. Her skin pigment lost its melanin revealing her new light skin. The curls of her hair darken, straightened, extending to the bottom of her neck. Hair and skin tone that's simple stuff. Bernardo's body altered too. That button nose lengthened and sharpened to a point. Her body gained healthy weight, particularly in the thighs, a more prominent chest, and a fuller rear end. The part-time actress's wardrobe changed into something more stylish, practical with more life in it. It consists of a yellow shirt, plum coat, golden circular earrings with dark green jewels, a pink scarf, purple pants, and black slip-on shoes. A lovely shade of cherry red lipstick. Micheal titled his head. Her personality changed as well. Initially, Ms. Bernardo was more reserved with her passion. Now, she's more eccentric and passionate. The ripple subsided. All pictures of her changed to match her new appearance, such as those in the yearbook and those in Santiago's possession. No one acknowledged the alternation of her form because to them. She never changed. Now Ms. Bernardo has auditions to watch. A grand entrance is required of her. His phone rang. He smiled when he pressed accept.
"Hey, Micheal," A silky authoritative yet familiar voice answered the call. "I saw we got a Ripple. Tetherby broke like fine china, didn't he?"
"You know it," Micheal confirmed. "He's done and out of the picture," He checked his list and marked Tetherby's names off. "You sent the money to the librarian,"
"Of course, with a little extra for good quality service," The voice announced. It was similar to his own in a way, but it wasn't. "How long until the others make their move," He said seriously. Oh, right, the others. Micheal thought about it for a bit.
"A few months to a year depending on what happens next," Micheal answered, remembering the plan. He's done this so many times already. "You know your part, right?" He rechecked his surroundings.
"Yeah. You did the heavy lifting with Tetherbly, so I'll take him off your hands," The wealthy man remarked. "Also Flip and that Dr. Linnaeus. Man, she's a piece of work," They shivered at her callousness or future callousness. "Talk to you later, Micheal. I got business deals and projects to enact," The pair said their farewells as Micheal drove home.
Lincoln sat on the couch in the living enjoying control of the television. Lucy was in the dining room doing some math homework while he flipped through the channels before pausing on the news.
"Breaking news, the former 'Lord' Tobias Tetherby has been under arrest for the assault of a minor earlier this week," Katherine announced with a stack of papers in her hands. Lucy halted her writing. "It's been quite a while since Tetherby made an appearance since his escape. Now resorted to this? From a socialite to a social outcast." Okay, so this is the official news report. His blue eyes focused on the minor headlines rushing near the bottom of the screen. Those were often the more important news. He caught a glimpse of it. Someone was doing a massive project in Detroit and throughout Michigan. Oh, it looped again. The project can spread to other states. Wait, it already did? Man, this person must be loaded to do this. Lucy sat by his side. "Thanks for the heads up, Lucy. You really saved me," She gripped her dress.
"It wasn't just him," Lucy whispered, making him blink in confusion. Wasn't just him? "There's more…" Of course, there's always more. "I'm sorry, dear brother," She sniffled. Lincoln padded her head with a slight smile on his face and pulled her into a hug.
"It's not your fault, Lucy. You warned me. That's the important thing right now," Lincoln comforted his little sister as she returned the hug. He leaned back, allowing her to lay on his chest while flipping through the channels. Her ears listened to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat with a slight smile. It calmed and soothed her reminding the Goth that he's still here and alive. Lincoln settled on Nat GEO wild watching Texas game ranger. The older half of the sisters entered the living room. Lori and Leni muffled their squeals at the adorable scene of Lucy and Lincoln cuddling on the couch. Luna snapped a picture of it on her phone. Not so gloom and doom are ya, Lucy? Besides Leni, she's the best girl. You're a close second or third.
Lincoln groaned as he laid facefirst on his bed when he returned home. "Man, what's happening to me today," Don't worry. It's nothing bad...yet. The whole day predicted what he was going to do. It started with Lisa knowing when he likes to use the bathroom in the morning. He didn't think much of it as it's Lisa, after all. She has everyone's bathroom habits. Hopefully, she removed that camera. It happened again at breakfast when his father had his meal ready before he even said anything. Lincoln got his food before his sisters. So lucky him, he guesses. Unfortunately, that was his whole day. Someone commented that he always does something. Lola tells him that he takes too long despite having only one outfit. Lincoln lives in a literal closet, so cut him some slack. Agnes & Zach replied that he and Clyde have always teamed up together since kindergarten. Pacowski complained that he skips the rope with a litany of excuses. Lunch was the weirdest one. Cookie predicated what he has for lunch, even taking in the day for good measure. They stared at her. Like how the fuck do you know of all that? The sparring match Lincoln had with Alex and Pandora wasn't too bad. Adora acknowledged that he's finding his style, but Lincoln probably needs to find a third style.
"Oh, poor predictable Lincoln. It's probably not a smart thing to have such a basic routine. The person or persons Lucy warned you about can use. If there was anything special about your routine, to begin with," A voice mocked the young Loud. Lincoln got up and flipped over his mattress, revealing his whiteboard. He pulled out a black marker. Maybe it's time to make some changes.
His alarm blared the next day. Lincoln shuffled around in his bed before reaching for it. Wake up an hour early. Check. He exited his room, viewing the empty hallway. His sisters were still asleep, granted by Lynn's and Lola's snoring. Free bathroom time. So far, so good. Lincoln relieved himself, washed his hands, and exited the room.
"Lincoln. What are you doing up so early," Lisa asked, rubbing the crust out of her eyes.
"I thought about waking up early, that's all," Lincoln answered with a shrug as he walked downstairs. She narrowed her eyes at him, observing him from the stairs conserving with the parental unit in the kitchen for today's breakfast. This is strange of him. A rumble erupted in her system. Lisa ran to the bathroom to empty her urinary tract.
Lori honked the van impatiently along with the rest of the siblings. "COME ON! STINKOLN, LET'S GO!" Lynn shouted from the middle row. This was later than his usual time. Did something happen?
"I'm right here," Lincoln answered abruptly in the back seat, taking a note from Lucy. His voice startled everyone, including Leni, who was sitting next to him. He wasn't wearing his usual outfit instead of wearing something Luna would wear. A blue t-shirt with a rock-on logo. The tears on the shirt have sewed in. Lincoln had some spare time. No red beanie. Instead, a cow skull bandana was tightly wrapped around his forehead with A&A wristband on his left hand, and a studded checked leather band on the other. His jeans and shoes remained the same. "I was here before you guys," He placed his hands behind his head.
"Is that mine or Dad's," Luna gestured to the bandana. Lincoln shrugged. It was in the old things box. "Looks good on you, dude," He smiled. Lori started the van and drove to school. Lisa's thoughts were running a mile a millisecond. Why does he have that bandana?
"...Lemy," Lisa muttered internally.
Lincoln took a deep breath as he stood in front of his classroom. All of his sisters went to their homerooms. It's now or never. He opened the door when his classmates observed Lincoln's new outfit. "Hooo-weee, sure do fancy your new duds, Lincoln," Liam commented as Lincoln walked to his friends. "Love the cow skull," The farmboy acknowledged as Lincoln took his seat.
"Yeah, didn't know you were into the rocker-hipster look," Stella replied when Lincoln turned and smirked at her.
"There's a lot you know don't about me," Lincoln said cryptically. Sirens blared in Clyde's mind at Lincoln's words.
"Now wait a sec. Do you mean that to Stella specifically?" Clyde gestured to the Filipino in a panic before pointing to himself. "Or are there things that me, your best friend for the last six years, doesn't know about," He questioned in paranoia.
"You don't know my google history," Lincoln countered before narrowing his eyes. "And I don't know what you with those pictures of Lori, but I have a pretty good imagination," He pointed to his friend in accusation. Technically, Lincoln can't search for certain things because he's sure that Lisa has some tracker on the wifi.
"Fair point," Clyde conceded with cross arms. The bell rang as Agnes reached into her desk. A pile of writing quills was in her hands.
"Alright, class, time for calligraphy practice. Everyone find a partner." Agnes announced as she handed the quills to the students before stopping at Lincoln. "I assume you'll be with Cly-"
"Hey, Stella, would you like to work together today?" Lincoln interrupted, turning to her, making her blush a bit. Red alarm.
"Okay, sure," Stella smiled at him.
"Well, that's unexpected," Agnes commented as she passed the rest of the quills.
"I know, right?!" Clyde hyperventilated at the situation. Cookie handed him a brown paper bag to contain his frantic breathing.
"Alright, maggots line up," Pacowski announced to the class. "We're doing the rope today," He gestured to the tan rope in the middle of the gym. Lincoln raised his hand. "For Pete's sake, what is it this time, Loud?"Pacowski groaned as he pinched the bridge of his nose. "Swine flu, charlie horse or whatever weirdness Lisa did recently,"
"I resent that remark; thank you very much," Lisa poked her head from the side of the door before leaving.
"No," Lincoln walked past him and grabbed on the rope. "I wanted to ask if I can go first," The coach and Clyde's jaw dropped at his offer. He wants to go first?
"Oh uh sure, go for it," Pacowski stammered as Lincoln nodded. "I didn't know you had it in you," The class watched him tug on the rope testing its stability. Lincoln used his foot to wrap the cord around his other foot before giving the coach a thumbs-up. Pacowski got a stopwatch before blowing his whistle. His classmates cheered for him as he climbed.
"Dude, he's actually doing it," Zach declared before Lincoln slid down against the rough texture. "Oh, rope burn," He winced.
"Don't count him out just yet." Mollie defended while Cookie and Haiku nodded in agreement. Lincoln gritted his teeth as he hung on. His eyes peeked down. Woah, that's a bit of a drop. GET YOUR HEAD IN THE GAME, LOUD! He shook his head to clear his thoughts before resuming his climb. Lincoln rang the bell as they cheered. Pacowski checked the stopwatch. That's one of the fastest times since he worked here.
Lincoln's grip loosened."Oh no," He whispered as he slowly slid down."Rope burn," Lincoln released his hold midway, landing on the floor. "I'm okay,"
"One of you take him to the nurse to treat that burn," Pacowski brought up. Cookie escorted him to the nurse's office. "McBride, you're up next. McBride?!" The coach searched for him. "Where did he go?" Haiku gestured to his office. He was making a call to Dr. Lopez about what was going with Lincoln. The rest of the class did the rope with Lincoln having a wrapping around on his hands. "Alright, one round of dodgeball, then head out," Pacowski rolled some dodgeballs their way. Girl Jordan immediately grabbed some and began launching them at her classmates.
"Yo, the whistle hadn't blown yet," Joy shouted before one landed in her face. "Okay, now it did,"
"Snake formation," Liam ordered the group as they formed behind. "Wait a second. Where's Linc." He was calmly checking his bandages. "Get your kester over here,"
"And let Girl Jordan target us. No, thank you," Rusty retorted. A dodgeball rolled to Lincoln. He picked up while taking an inhale. This morning was Luna. Now, what would Lynn do? Rush in without a proper plan and hope for the best. Exactly. He threw the ball, knocking the one in the jubilant Jordan's hand.
"What the heck," Girl Jordan whispered in alarm before focusing on the charging Lincoln. She swiftly searched for another one. Found it. "Where did he go?" He wasn't in her view.
"Girl Jordan heads up!" Mollie exclaimed to her friend. She looked up, seeing Lincoln midair holding a dodgeball. Not on my watch, Linky. Girl Jordan leaped back, attempting to widen the gap and for a better angle to throw her ball. She motioned her arm back when Lincoln rocketed his projectile directly in her face. The impact forced her back until she stumped, landing on her back. He landed near her feet amongst his stunned classmates.
"What," Lincoln arched an eyebrow at the shocked crowd. He shrugged before strolling to the locker room.
"Girl Jordan, are you okay?" Mollie asked while helping her up. Jenny removed the dodgeball from her face. She had a blissful grin on her face. "Um, Jordan," Mollie waved a hand in front of her face when the bottom braid of her ponytail exploded, startling her friends. "What the hell,"
"Yep, I'm popping his cherry," Girl Jordan admitted to the confused group before skipping away while humming. Well, she did get her wish in a way.
The next day Lincoln tried something different again by going last, this time for the bathroom. What is he wearing today? Mollie will like it. The students were casually chatting in their classroom. "Where is he? He's usually here around this time," Mollie checked her watch while Girl Jordan doodled in her notebook.
"I'll give him five more minutes," Cookie stated while checking the door. It opened, revealing that patch of white hair.
"Finally, what took you...so...long," Mollie asked before her voice slowed down with a scarlet face. "Bah, Bah, Bah, Bah, Bah, Bah," She muttered while her friends gazed at her in confusion. The fuck is going on with her? Cookie gestured to Lincoln. He wore a stylish brown three-piece suit with his smooth hair neatly combed over while holding a briefcase.
"Woah, check out fancy pants over here," Zach exclaimed at him. Mollie's eyes followed Lincoln as he walked over to his friends. Cookie had to catch Mollie as she nearly fell out of her seat.
"Man, that suit is good enough to get married in," Liam acknowledged. He touched the sleeve when his eyes scanned Lincoln's sweaty face. "Or buried in," Girl Jordan snapped her fingers in Mollie's face attempting to break her out of her stupor.
"Well, don't you look dapper this morning, Lincoln," Agnes complimented before the bell rang. "Alright, class, we're talking about history and a bit of geography today," She looked up what was forming over Mollie's head. "Um, Mollie, what's that?" Agnes pointed to the thought bubble. Mollie's eyes expanded into saucers as her heart dropped to her stomach.
"Is that me?" Lincoln whispered, causing her to scream. He was taken by this as she rushed out of the classroom dragging the cloud behind her.
"O...kay then," Agnes muttered at the event. She cleared her throat before resuming the lesson. "Who can tell me about the hundred years war?" Several students raised their hands while Mollie's faint shouting could be heard outside. She jumped from the second floor and landed on the thought bubble. "Um, Lincoln, come to the front," Agnes called out to him while Girl Jordan opened the window allowing Mollie to climb in.
"Thanks," Mollie grabbed Girl Jordan's hand, pulling her in. Her eyes were locked on Lincoln. He removed his coat and loosened his orange tie. The cherry on was him rolling up his sleeves and buttoning them to his elbows, revealing his toned forearms. "Are you kidding me," She muttered with blazing cheeks as the bubble reformed for round two.
This unpredictable cycle was an entertaining show but slowly grew...concerning, especially when he went Goth and delivered a monologue during Humanities. "And then the weight of thoughts hits you. It's completely irrelevant to debate about the existence of God. So why doesn't he intervene? He called us to be the caretakers of the Earth. The slow degeneration of the planet is strictly our fault. However, it doesn't matter if the world dies. He can always start again. If he doesn't exist, then everything is permissible. The horrors and savagery of war and genocide. Along with the taint of the human ego, it is all because of us. No divine survivor is coming to help or what's occurring is righteous punishment from eons ago. We humans don't register on the cosmic scale. People deny facts established centuries and doubting scientific feats in the last centuries. How can we conqueror the galaxy if we can't conqueror our planet?" Lincoln took a pause. "The galaxy and the universe is an ever-expanding void; therefore, it's illogical to believe that we're only the sapient and sentient species that's out there. We're a drop in the ocean. What's happening here is also happening somewhere else. All the horrible atrocities that occurred in human history aren't atrocities. It just ...is." He shrugged. "A cruel and unsettling fact in this cold reality. No one would care if the Earth is destroyed. There will be no monuments dedicated to an epic stand like we all believe would. Humanity's end won't be with a bang but a soft pitiful whimper," Lincoln concluded as everyone in the room stared at him in alarming silence from his nihilistic speech. Their stares didn't faze him as the moments passed by.
"Dude, you wanna talk or something?!" Zach exclaimed as he stood up with widened eyes and a frown. "Like holy crap, bro," He stuttered a response putting both hands on his head as he sat back down, trying to wrap his mind around Lincoln's statement. The young conspiracy theorist enjoyed existential crises as much as the next guy but Jesus fucking Christ, Lincoln.
"Yeah, man is everyone okay at home," Chandler offered his support amidst the dour atmosphere. Man, that speech hit different.
"And why should I talk to you about my personal life again?" Lincoln countered, wearing all black. "So what? You can mock me again?" He narrowed his cold dead eyes at the redhead. Chandler couldn't offer a response, remaining silent. Mr. Wolfson checked his watch. He has a tall, lean build, dark skin, and short dark brown hair. Lincoln's speech removed the easy smile commonly found on his face.
"I'll let you kids out a bit," Mr. Wolfson gestured to the door. They packed up with their bags on their back.
"Like, are you sure you good? You know that you can talk to us, right?" Zach fretted towards the stoic Lincoln as they strolled out of the room. "For real, what was the all about," Mr. Wolfson wrote down what occurred with Lincoln in a small note to his teacher and the principal. Hopefully, this doesn't become a significant issue later on in his life.
Some of them used this free period to meet up in the library. No one said a word for a few moments. "What the fudge was that all about?" Cookie whispered in an alarmed tone at what happened in humanities. They all nodded in agreement. "Clyde, do you know what's going on with Lincoln?" She asked his friend, who shook his head at the lack of information. "Dang it," Cookie grumbled in frustration.
"I believe I can be of assistance," Haiku interjected. They covered their mouths to avoid alarming the librarian. "Something happened with Lincoln," The Goth took a seat at their table.
"Yes. We were in Humanities class talking about different religions and ideologies. He gave a full-blown anime speech about the insignificance of the debate of God's existence. The meaninglessness of humanity's suffering in this cruel universe," Mollie explained, putting her hands on the table. "I don't know if Lincoln actually believes that or if it was something from a comic," She desperately hoped that it was for a comic.
"Even though I enjoy that he's embracing the darkness. I would rather have the comic and video game enthusiast," Haiku admitted to the group. "However, I won't allow him to fall into apathy," She vowed. The world is cruel yet holds a degree of beauty to it. That's for another time as the bell rings. Trust me. Lincoln is going to experience some bullshit. Buckle up.
His classmates waited for Lincoln to arrive. What will it be today? They counted down the seconds from the echoing ticking clock. He's here. And in his default outfit. The classic blue jeans and orange polo shirt. Everyone breathed in relief. Lincoln's back to his usual self.
"Buddy!" Clyde sobbed against his chest while giving him a bear hug. "I'm so glad you're back," His grip tightened.
"Sorry about that, Clyde," Lincoln said softly as he patted his back. "It was a…." He hesitated for a moment. "A phrase I was going through. I think it's out of my system now," Lincoln replied with a fake smile on his face, but Clyde was none the wiser.
"Glad that you're back to old self again," Agnes smiled as she went to the board. "Take your seat, Lincoln. We're about to start," She turned around as Lincoln went to his seat.
"Old self, huh? Shame that your 'unpredictability' became… predictable," The voice remarked as Lincoln wrote his notes.
Lincoln's day went predictably as expected. He was on the second floor, strolling to his locker. "Lincoln," Haiku's voice called out to him. The Loud stopped and turned to the Goth. She paced to his side. "That was a bit of a perform you did," Haiku remarked as they resumed their pace.
"Don't worry. I'm fine," Lincoln brushed off the event. Haiku's blank stare said otherwise. "It was just a phrase. I'm fi-eep!" She slammed her against the wall blocking his path startling him. Her raven hair covered her face while her other arm blocked his escape. Lincoln's heart raced as the Goth leaned in closer to him. Her body rumbled with fury. Why was he giving her that fake smile?!
"You can lie to your classmates and sisters. Hell, you can even lie to Clyde. However," Haiku seethed under her breath. Lincoln gulped. Oh crap, she's mad. She's definitely mad. The Goth looked up at him with fiery narrowed eyes. "Don't you ever think you can lie to me," Haiku ordered as her body moved closer to him. Lincoln felt her breath on his lips. "Do you understand me? Lincoln Leonidas Loud," His face was brighter than a firework show on the fourth of July with his back against the wall.
"Yes," Lincoln squeaked out timidly with a scarlet face and wobbly legs.
"Yes, what?" Haiku repeated, getting in closer. They were face to face. He quickly glanced at her smooth lips
"Haiku," Lincoln answered.
"Just Haiku," The Goth questioned with a raised eyebrow. He swallowed his spit. What did she want him to say?
"Yes, Lady Haiku," Lincoln whispered with a bowed head avoiding her gaze. She stepped away, finding his address appropriate.
"Good boy," She replied. For some reason, that sent a shiver up his spine. Haiku handed him her black and lavender backpack. "Now stay here until I get back," She ordered while he nodded. Haiku strolled until she turned at the corner of the hallway. Steam erupted from her eardrums as her face heated to bright pink. "I can't believe I just did that and made him call me Lady Haiku," Haiku whispered in a panic, although she did enjoy making him sweat and submit to her will. She fanned herself. This better not awaken something in them.
"Mr. Loud, why are you standing against the wall," The principal asked the male Loud. He hasn't moved a muscle since Haiku told him not to move.
"Haiku told me to stay here, sir," Lincoln answered, still holding her bag. His eyes shifted around. "And I don't want to make her mad again," He whispered to him.
"Oh," Higgins mouthed, recalling similar situations in his youth. "Do you have a hall pass," Lincoln started to sweat. Is that allowed?
"We have a free period, sir," Haiku interrupted with two textbooks in her arm. "We were on our way to the library,"
"Carry on then," Huggins told his leave back down the stairs.
"We're going to the library," Lincoln asked, handing her back her bag.
"Yes," Haiku confirmed, putting her back on her back with her books still in her hands. She hooked her arm into his. "And I'm taking you there," Lincoln gazed at their position.
"Do you have to take my arm," Lincoln questioned. He didn't mind it since he had a pretty girl on his arm.
"Yes," Haiku affirmed, narrowing her eyes at him. "So you won't escape again," He shrugged as it was a fair assumption. "Let's go," She escorted him, ignoring the stares coming their way.
The pair made their way to the library while Haiku found a secluded spot for them to talk. It was a corner obstructed by a few bookshelves providing them a degree of privacy. She sat down on the cushions while gesturing for him to take a seat. Lincoln removed his bag and placed it next to him while sitting down on a strawberry cushion. The two remained silent. "So, what's troubling you, Lincoln?" Haiku decided to break the silence. Lincoln opened his mouth before she glared at him. "You don't have to tell me everything," She maintained eye contact as he looked off to the side. "Just whatever is on your mind right now," Haiku reasoned with him. It doesn't matter what it is. Lincoln sighed as his eyes dulled with a frown on his family.
"Okay, Haiku," He muttered to the Goth. She nodded as he spoke his mind.
"Now, where is that book on child psychology about young prodigies" Ms. Shrinvas muttered to herself. Why are these books so difficult to find? Her eyes scanned the shelves.
"Sometimes I feel like my family doesn't love or care about me," Lincoln's mournful voice interrupted her search. It came from behind the bookshelf. She peeked from the corner. Lincoln's head was in Haiku's lap as he gazed up. "Like am I wrong for feeling like that" He sniffed.
"No, you're not wrong in feeling like that," Haiku comforted as she read one of her books with her hand in his fluffy hair. The two gazed at the eavesdropper. Ms. Shrinvas's face screamed guilty as she walked on it on a private conversation. She backed away slowly.
"I'm in the wrong section," The kindergarten teacher stammered, leaving the students alone. However, Linku is looking strong right now. That's a good thirty dollars in someone's pocket.
Haiku checked her watch."We better head back to school," The two got up and received their items before walking back to school together.
They made it near the school's entrance. She stopped and turned to him. "Are you alright now" Haiku consoled her best friend's brother.
"I think I'm okay," Lincoln muttered as she offered him a smile. "To think me being scared of having a routine was a bad thing,"
"That's what the last week or so was all about," Zach replied. The rest of his friends, the QTs, Agnes, Huggins, and his sisters in Vanzilla. "Dude, everyone has one. I watch the same movie every night before bed," He confessed.
"I practice my katas," Alexandria continued confessions. The routines range from how they dress, activities, and personal habits. Some of them are gross. We're looking at you, Lynn. It's perfectly normal.
"I guess I was freaking over nothing," Lincoln scratched his head.
"You're still young Lincoln. There's plenty of time to discover your true self," Huggins advised when Clyde tackled hugged Lincoln creating lines in the dirt.
"Please don't change again," Clyde sobbed. "At least give me a warning or when Dr. Lopez is in town," Lincoln rolled his eyes at his friend.
"Hey, Lincoln, I hope you're ready for pole vaulting," Pacowski smiled while dragging some equipment.
"Oh boy," Lincoln whispered as Clyde released him. "Thanks again, Haiku," He smiled at the Goth who hugged him in return.
"Anytime, Lincoln," She smiled, holding on to him for a bit longer. "Just don't jump out of windows again," That was scary. Yep, there's a lot of Haiku x Lincoln moments. However, this one was planned from the start. Other girls with have their moments/dates or whatever. Now that I think about it. Jenny/Brown QT, technically Stella and Polly, had a 'date' with Lincoln.
"No promises," Lincoln joked as they released each other. "I'll see you later," He declared as he stepped into Vanzilla. His sisters had an amused smirk on their faces as he locked in his seatbelt. "What?" Lincoln demanded in annoyance.
"Nothing, big brother," Lucy teased in a sing-song voice. He rolled in his eyes as they drove off. Haiku had a warm feeling spreading throughout her chest.
Lincoln relaxed in his room. He sat at his desk searching for dates and people on his laptop for his history assignment when a knock came from his door. "Hey, dude, it's me," Luna's voice came from the other side. "Is it okay that we talk for a bit?" Lincoln shut off his laptop and opened the door. He followed his rock star sister to her room. Luna closed the door behind her while Lincoln sat on the bottom bed. She soon followed. The siblings sat quietly as Luna turned on her phone to play a steady instrumental for background music. "You had a bit of an identity crisis, huh, dude?" She asked, wrapping an arm around his shoulder as he nodded. "Don't sweat it. I went through the same thing when deciding to stick to classical music or change to rock music," Man, that was a shift. Her siblings called her old attire 'Classic Luna.' Long hair, Mary janes with a buttoned-up shirt and a skirt. Luna looked like she belonged in a church choir.
"And when you figured out that you liked boys and girls," Lincoln joked, making Luna's cheeks turn pink. Lincoln and Leni were the first to know. He said that he liked girls too while Leni liked boys. Both asked what's her type. "Don't worry, I already talked to Haiku about it," Luna raised a brow. This Haiku girl is making her claim on her brother. Although she did miss him imitating her style. At least she was first, thus most likely his favorite sister. Take that, Lori. A tingled sensation crawled up his nose, screwing up his face. He needed a tissue or something. Lincoln glanced down and picked up a purple fabric, and held it against his nose. Nothing happened.
"Oh, man. It was a false alarm," Lincoln whispered. What was he smelling? It was soft, emitting an enticing aroma. Subtle yet holds power to it.
"Bro, those are my dirty knickers," Luna revealed to him. His face paled with widened eyes as he stared at the underwear. A cotton purple bikini bottoms with a black and white skull on the front. "Yeah, those are the ones I wore for like two days straight when the washer and dryer were acting up," She pointed out to her horrifyingly stunned brother. He smelled his sister's dirty underwear. There's one thing Lincoln can do. He unleashed a high-pitched shriek as he tossed the accursed panties away from him. It landed on the stage. Luna watched him roll and tumble on the ground while furiously rubbing his face.
"I can't get the smell out of my nose!" Lincoln wailed in agony. Why the honey nut bunches of fuck did, he liked it a bit?! Because fuck you, that's why. He laid there on the floor, contemplating his life at the moment.
"I'll go get us snacks," Luna announced as she stood up. A thought entered her mind when she exited the room. Maybe when she makes it big. Selling her used underwear could work to a degree. Luna doesn't know yet, but there's someone out there willing to pay thousands of dollars for a pair of dirty underwear. That's one good thing about simps. She won't make it a habit only after a tour. Lincoln rolled over gazed at the ceiling. There's something under the bean bag. He got up and pushed it to the side. There's a small box. It wasn't locked. His eyes shifted around the room as he opened it. Sweet there's some brownies and candies in here. Lincoln bit into one of the brownies. A slight herbal aftertaste with rich dark chocolate. He shrugged as he ate it whole; it must be one of those vegan brownies. These cookies look promising. Luna returned a few minutes later. "You want the Doritos or ruffles," She held two party-sized bags in her hands with two bottles of strawberry kiwi juice in the other hand.
"Cool, that can go with these snacks I found," Lincoln replied while leaning back in the bean bag. Her eyes widened as she watched him eat several cookies. "Is this a new flavor or something?"
"Bro….how many of those did you eat," Luna asked with warning signals blaring. He continued to chew.
"Two brownies and like four of these cookies," Lincoln revealed to her. Her heart raced at his answer. Oh fuck. He ate six of them?! "I saved some for you. Didn't touch the gummies though," Luna dropped the snacks as she held her hands in front of her.
"Lincoln. Try to remain calm, okay?" Luna gently pleaded as she edged closer to him. Try to remain calm? What does she mean? "Just...stay...calm" Her voice dragged to a crawl as the room morphed into an incomprehensible colorful message. Lincoln looked at his hands
"Woah," Lincoln whispered at the afterimages as he rotated his hands. He chuckled in a daze as he started to float.
"Oh fuck," Luna muttered. He's high as bird pussy right now. "Crap, he's going out of the window," She rushed out the room. "Shit, shit, shit, shit, shit, shit," The rocker muttered as she went down the stairs.
"What happened to you?" Lori wondered on the couch with Rita and Luan. What got Luna in a frenzy?
"Linc got into our stash," Luna declared as Luan spat out her water. "He ate like six edibles and floating out the window," She held on the door handle.
"How did he eat six," Rita scolded as Luan and Lori went upstairs.
"I was gone for like two minutes," Luna defended herself as she sprinted out the door heading to the garage.
She grabbed some of her cords before heading into the backyard. A branch hooked his polo shirt keeping him there. "Oh, thank god," She whispered as she raced to the tree. Luna made a lasso and threw it at Lincoln's ankle. She tugged on it, making sure that it had a secure grip. "Come on, dude. Let's get you down from there," Luna replied to her high brother as he continued to float. She dragged him like he was a balloon animal pulling him down to avoid hitting his head. Luna entered her room, where Lori, Luan, and Rita made a safety nest of comforters and pillows. The rocker sat down pulled on the cord bringing Lincoln down with her. She held him against her flat chest, playing with his hair as he shook and shivered. "It's okay, Lincoln. Luna's got ya," Luna said gently as Rita checked the box.
"I think…" Lincoln spoke. "I think I'm dying," He hyperventilated as he held himself.
"You're not dying, Linky," Lori consoled her brother. His eyes were wide and vacant. "Just remember to breathe,"
"Luna, what strain is this," Rita held the box while munching on a brownie.
"Purple haze," Luna answered as she rubbed Lincoln's head while Luan gave him a Rubix cube to distract himself. "It's kinda strong," Rita brushed the crumbs off her shirt.
"It's alright," She shrugged before swallowing. The matriarch kneels in front of her only son. "Honey, how's your history homework going on?" She said sweetly.
"We were on the exploration period," Lincoln answered as he twisted and turned the cube. "I was trying to find Old Zealand," They raised an eyebrow.
"Old Zealand," Luan repeated. Okay, he's definitely high.
"Yes, because the East coast, especially the original thirteen colonies, are called New England. There has to be an old if there has to be a new," Lincoln checked his cube. He got one side down as Rita handed her daughters the box. They needed to be on his level right now. Luna got a package of gummies while Luan and Lori consumed the cookies.
"What else you got?" Lori remarked, holding a chocolate chip cookie in her hand.
"Brussel sprouts, cabbage, kale, cauliflower, and broccoli are the same plant," Lincoln announced. They paused their eating. "It's one of humanity's first well-known attempts of creating variants in agriculture," They chatted until CBD kicked in. The Louds relaxed in Luna's room while music played. Lynn Sr. opened the door slightly with a blank expression finding his wife and four of his children buzzed out with smiles on their faces. "Do you guys think sand is called sand because it's between the sea and the land?"
"Bruh…" They whispered at the mind-blowing revelation.
"I'm not even going to ask," Lynn Sr. grumbled as he closed the door. He better get dinner started.
Well, shit looks like Micheal has a friend. Whether that's good or bad is up to you. Check out Crystal Prison. Leave a review, follow or favorite. In the meantime, I have this Cristina chapter to do.
Thanks for reading the chapter. Follow and favorite if you enjoyed the story. Leave a review for any questions, concerns, or theories, or if it's just to show your appreciation.