At the Rosato Family home, everyone was still dealing with the aftermath of the fight. Many of course were bothered by the idea of a supervillain invading but were relieved that the two local superheroes, along with an Avenger, had come to save the day.
Lincoln was still comforting Jordan, the girl slightly calmer though still very much upset by the whole ordeal.
"Do you want to come over to my house or something?" Lincoln offered.
"I appreciate the offer, but my parents would not be okay with me leaving, and I don't want to deal with any more headaches right now," Jordan said.
"Well if you can, come by this week, I want to make sure things get better with you," Lincoln said.
"You're such a sweetheart, thanks," Jordan said, gently caressing Lincoln's face. "I'll take you up on that, if to see more of your handsome face."
"Uh...thanks," Lincoln awkwardly said, the boy now blushing. "So...I know this probably isn't a good time to talk about it, but...it's about what we did in that Jacuzzi."
Jordan began to recall everything, during all this adrenaline, she forgot about the big moment of passion she and Lincoln had, "Oh right...that. I um...yeah, I took things too far, didn't I?"
"Well..." Lincoln wasn't sure how to answer. He could be honest and admit he liked it, but part of him still worried he made some poor choices.
"Oh God, I did take things too far," Jordan lamented. "I just wanted a simple date; I didn't expect to get so intimate with you. If anyone finds about that-"
"Yo! Linc!" Lynn called, freaking the boy and his lover out. "Whoa, what's with you? Still jumpy after that Chameleon creep attacked?"
"None of us blame you of course," Luna said, walking over with the rest of the sisters. "That was not a good situation."
"Yeah, it was really terrible," Lincoln said, Jordan quickly agreeing.
"Another villain attack, Royal Woods used to be so peaceful," Lori said.
"By the way, Black Widow was here," Lola said. "Figured you should know since you were inside the house the whole time."
"Uh...right, I was," Lincoln said. "I did get to see her; too bad I didn't get an autograph."
"Lana said you were really brave inside the house though, you kept her feeling safe," Luan said.
"I did?" Lincoln asked, seeing Lana wink at the boy. "I mean...yeah, of course. I do love my sister after all."
"Ew, don't say 'love'," Lana said.
"Right, sorry," Lincoln said.
"I thought it was cute," Jordan said.
"Hey Jordan, how are you feeling?" Luna asked.
"I could be better," Jordan said. "Sorry you girls had to deal with this crap."
"It's fine, we've gotten used to it," Lisa said.
"Plus we got to see Spider-Man, so bonus," Lucy said.
"Please, I'd hardly call that a bonus," Lola said, earning a glare from Lana.
"Here we go again..." Luna said. "After he just saved us too."
"Or did you already forget?" Lana asked. "Did you lose your memory after Sid used to whack that villain?"
"Do not bring that up, that stupid moron nearly knocked my teeth out doing that," Lola said. "Sid's just lucky that she's Adelaide's big sister, otherwise I wouldn't have gone so easy on her."
"Still, ease up talking about Sid, she's a good friend of mine after all," Lincoln said.
"Yeah, back to Spider-Man, that creep brings trouble wherever he goes," Lori said.
"He's totally bad luck," Leni said.
Lincoln grimaced, as did Lana at the mention of bad luck.
"Well spiders are unlucky creatures," Lynn said.
"No they're not! You're thinking of black cats," Lucy said. "Spiders can also symbolize good luck."
"Ew, no way," Leni said. "They're to creepy for that."
"Talk, the 'rents are calling us, I think pops wants to take us home," Luna said, gesturing to her father with the car keys.
"I don't blame him," Lincoln said, turning to Jordan. "Call me if anything. Or text me."
"Sure thing, thanks again for coming," Jordan said.
"Kiss, kiss, kiss..." Lynn quietly cheered, earning some glares from her sisters. "Oh come on, we're all thinking it!"
Acting quickly, Jordan left a kiss on Lincoln's cheek, surprising the boys and delighting his sisters. "Just something for being so nice to me. I'll see you later."
An embarrassed Jordan went inside the house, leaving Lincoln in awe. "She is kind of cute when she's like this. Still, tonight was not bad at all. I actually feel like a real man now." He turned his attention to his very happy sisters, aside from Lori. "Stop smiling, you're freaking me out."
"Sorry, we're just proud of you," Luna said.
"Speak for yourself..." Lori muttered, this not going unnoticed by the other sisters.
"...Most of us are," Luna said. "Jordan's probably bummed out, this is a good time to be there for her on an emotional level."
"Yeah, I'm aware," Lincoln said. "And I will be. Not so she'll fall for me, but because she's my friend."
"Good on you, Lincoln. You two make excellent friends," Lori said. "Can't ask for more than that."
"Unless it's earned, which it can and will be," Luna said.
"Kids, hurry up!" Lynn Sr called.
"We should go, pops is getting worried," Luna said.
"You go ahead, I gotta go meet up with Bobby," Lori said.
"Is he spending the night here?" Leni asked.
"If mom and dad say it's okay," Lori said. "We'll have to set up a room for him, Ronnie Anne, Sid and Adelaide in the basement."
"Adelaide's sleeping in my room," Lola said. "Meli and Cricket are sleeping over too, it's going to be another slumber party with me and my best friends."
"Hey Lola, quick question," Lincoln said, getting her attention. "First off, it's great that you're so close to Meli, Cricket and Adelaide, but I gotta ask. Whatever happened to Roxanne? You don't seem to talk about her much these days."
"Roxanne?" Lola asked, thinking it over. "I've tried calling her lately but she's been kind of busy. Probably pageant stuff. Still, maybe I should go and see her, just to grace her with my company. Oooh! If I text her, I can see if she wants to come over, assuming mommy and daddy say 'yes', which they will with a little persuasion."
"Geez, how many beauty queens am I gonna be surrounded by, tonight?" Lana asked.
Lola furrowed her brow at her twin, "You say that yet you're awfully close with Adelaide, plus Cricket seems to like you for some unknown reason."
"Kids!" Lynn Sr called again.
"Let's go before pops freaks out," Lynn said.
"Sure..." Lincoln quickly turned to Stella, the girl speaking with Christina and the disguised Natasha. He figured Natasha was making sure the girls were able to get home safely and let it be.
Meanwhile Sid was seen grabbing some snacks off the table, which Ronnie Anne noticed.
"What are you doing?"
Sid turned to face her friend, "Oh, no one was eating these, so I figured I'd help myself. Girl Jordan won't even notice."
"Ugh, whatever," Ronnie Anne said. "You do you."
"Hey come on, so the party ended up getting cut short, at least we got to see some superhero action," Sid said.
"You know that 'superhero action' is dangerous, don't you?" Ronnie Anne pointed out. "Someone could have gotten hurt. Girl Jordan's already bummed about her uncle turning out to be a crook."
"I know it has its downsides, Doctor Connors still feels crummy for what he did as The Lizard," Sid said. "But at the same time, seeing heroes taking a stand against injustice is pretty awesome, isn't it? Good reminder that whenever bad things happen, heroes come in to take charge."
"Still, what about the aftermath?" Ronnie Anne asked, sympathetically glancing at the Rosato home. "And how Girl Jordan feels about all this."
"It sucks but it coud have been worse," Sid said. "Spider-Man showed up and stopped The Chameleon, maybe that guy will get the help he needs to become better. Everything's gonna be fine, don't worry so much and be happy that things didn't turn out worse."
"You might be right," Ronnie Anne said. "Guess I'm still shaken up by so much that has happened, like you getting kidnapped. I was so worried for your safety."
"And you're sweet to worry, and it's why I love you, Ronnie," Sid said, taking the girl by her hand. "I'm fine though, Spider-Man saved me like he saved everyone here. Just because something bad happens doesn't mean we ignore the good, that's just a terrible mindset to have."
"I guess it is," Ronnie Anne said. "And I am grateful for Spider-Man, he prevents things from getting worse, and I respect that."
"Me too...I just wish I could have kissed him," Sid said.
Ronnie Anne glared at her friend for a brief second before shrugging it off, "Eh, enjoy your fantasies."
"Dang right I will," Sid said, making her leave. "Now if you don't mind, I see some drinks that need snatching."
As Sid left, Ronnie Anne took note of the Loud Family coming together, "Oh, there's Lincoln, I was wondering where he was. Kind of weird that he disappeared, again. Just like when Shocker showed up." The girl shrugged it off, "Well Lana wasn't around either, and Spider-Man said she was in the house with Lincoln. Still, something just seems off."
"Ronnie Anne, we're gonna leave soon," Bobby said. "Get Sid and let's go!"
"Alright Bobby!" Ronnie Anne said, still thinking things over. "Honestly though, I feel like something's up, and I'm gonna figure it out."
The Loud Family eventually arrived home, feeling exhausted from the day. What started as something fun took a turn into something chaotic, which the family has somewhat gotten used to.
Due to the sleepover, Cricket and Meli were also invited over, along with Adelaide, Sid, Ronnie Anne and Bobby.
"Slumber party!" Sid shouted, making her way into the house.
"Sid, don't yell, it's late," Ronnie Anne scolded.
"Not that late," Sid said. "So, are we bunking with Lincoln?"
"Pretty sure we're sleeping in the basement," Ronnie Anne said.
"Are we really though?" Sid asked. "What if there's rats down there?"
"Unlikely," Lisa said. "Otherwise Lana would have found them by now and built them a home."
"You say that like it's a bad thing," Lana said.
An annoyed Lynn marched inside, "Finally home, I can take off this stupid dress." She began to pull her dress up, something Luna and Luan were quick to stop.
"What are you doing, Lynn!?" Luna shouted. "You want everyone to see you in your undies!?"
"What's the big deal? Lincoln walks around wearing just his underwear," Lynn said.
"Hey! I only did that when I read comics, and I stopped doing that a long time ago," Lincoln insisted.
"You read comics in your undies?" Sid asked.
"Yeah, it was more comfortable. But, it started to feel weird after a while," Lincoln explained. "These days, I prefer reading them in my Spider-Man suit anyway."
"I don't know, it sounds fun," Sid said. "Ronnie Anne, wanna try it?"
"What!? No!" Ronnie Anne said. "And don't you try it either."
"Seriously, if I catch you in your undies at home, I will take a picture and post them on the internet," Adelaide warned.
"Wow...harsh," Sid said.
"Lynn, go upstairs and change, no one wants to see your skin," Luna said.
"Fine, wusses," Lynn said. "Guess my athletic bod would have also been too intimidating for you."
"Oh yeah, seeing your ironing board of a chest would make all the girls jealous," Luan taunted.
Lynn angrily grumbled at Luan, "Hey, you didn't develop until earlier this year! So don't you rag on me for my bod! At least I have muscle!"
"You got mounds on your arms, I have them where they count," Luan said, squishing her boobs together. "You got your slugs; I got my jugs!"
"Ooooh, you really tick me off sometimes," Lynn said. "If you don't watch yourself, you're gonna need braces again!"
"Sounds like I need to brace for the worst," Luan said, laughing to herself. "Get it?"
"Oh shut up," Lynn said. "At least this is nothing compared to Lori's awkward phase."
"What was that!?" Lori shouted. "Don't think I can't demolish you!"
"Pfft, sure, whatever losers, I'm off," Lynn said, storming off.
"Boy, she's really insecure about herself," Sid said. "Fortunately, I never have to worry about that."
"Oh you don't?" Ronnie Anne asked with a hint of sarcasm.
"Not at all, I have some good genes after all, and I just know I'm going to reach full bloom," Sid said. "You're already showing signs yourself Ronnie Anne."
"Uh, what?" Ronnie Anne asked.
"Your hips are a little wider than normal," Sid said.
"My hips?" Ronnie Anne placed her hands on her side. "No they're not, they're the same as always."
"We need a third opinion then," Sid said. "Yo! Lincoln! Does Ronnie Anne's butt look bigger to you?"
Ronnie Anne's eyes widened in shock as embarrassment overtook the poor girl.
"Uh...I can't hear you, I'm going through a tunnel," Lincoln said, inching toward the stairs.
"Huh? But we're indoors," Sid said, then noticed Lincoln booking it "Well he was in quite a hurry, what do you suppose that was about, Ronnie?"
"I...am going…to destroy you..." Ronnie Anne warned.
"Hm...I get the feeling you're pretty mad right about now," Sid said.
"I'm just glad out parents are outside and not hearing this awkwardness," Luna said.
"Same," Lori said. "Anyway, I'm heading upstairs, I need a shower."
"Better hurry, Lynn might go for it once she undresses," Luna said.
"I'll beat her to it," Lori said.
Lola gestured her friends upstairs, with Lana following. "Are you girls ready for an amazing slumber party?"
"I am," Cricket said.
"Uh yeah, me too," Meli said.
"You bet," Adelaide said.
"Just don't girl it up too much," Lana said.
"That's such a stupid thing to say," Lola said. "Fortunately for you, Adelaide and Cricket might know how to keep you entertained."
"Just stick with us, Lans," Adelaide said. "I would never let my bestie down."
"I know I can count on you, Addy," Lana said. Though on her way to her shared room, she glanced at Lincoln's door, wondering what he could be doing. "I bet he has a secret lair in there or something."
Lola opened the door and let her guests in, "Make yourselves at home ladies."
Everyone entered aside from Lana, the girl still distracted by Lincoln's door. This of course got he attention of the other girls.
"You alright there, Lana?" Adelaide asked.
"Huh?" Lana turned to her city friend. "I'm fine. I gotta go ask Lincoln about some stuff."
"That's fine," Lola said, looking for some games to play. "Just don't take too long, you're part of my slumber party plans."
"Oh hey, progress," Lana said, the girl making her exit.
"Huh? Progress?" Cricket asked.
"Probably didn't forget about the time I took control in planning our birthday party," Lola said. "It was a year ago and I might have gone overboard, but whatever."
"Hey, is Roxanne coming?" Meli asked.
"Guess not, I tried texting her, but I got nothing," Lola said. "I really hope she's not mad at me about something."
"Maybe she's just busy with her pageants?" Cricket suggested. "I hear there's some big stuff coming. Are you prepared for it?"
"I'm as prepared as I will be," Lola said. "Lincoln will give me pointers if anything."
"Oh right, he's an expert on this, isn't he?" Adelaide asked.
"Not sure if I would say 'expert', but he is a very good coach," Lola said.
"Any chance I can get a private lesson or two with him?" Cricket asked, the girl shifting her eyebrows."
"Uh, sure, I'll ask him later," Lola said. "That was weird."
With Lana, the girl had knocked on her brother's door, "Lincoln, you in there?"
"I am," Lincoln said, opening up the door. "What's up?"
"I think you know what's up," Lana said. "Mind if I come in?"
"Sure," Lincoln said, letting his sister inside. "Guess this was inevitable."
Lana was quick to make herself comfortable by sitting on Lincoln's bed, the girl glaring at her brother. "So...Spider-Man."
"Yeah...that's me," Lincoln said, glancing around to make sure he had complete privacy. "I'm Spider-Man."
Despite hearing it again from his mouth, despite the evidence earlier, Lana still could not wrap her head around this, "I'm just so confused. First off, how are you a superhero?"
"Lana, is it a good idea to talk here? You know our walls are paper thin," Lincoln said.
"Well where do you want to talk?" Lana asked.
A few minutes later, Lana and Lincoln were both seen inside Lisa's secret bunker that she uses for either danger or privacy.
"Let's be quick, we don't want Lisa finding out we snuck in here," Lincoln said. "Or that you disabled her cameras."
"Hey, you want this secret don't you?" Lana said.
"How did you even get the password?" Lincoln asked.
"Funny story, see Lola wanted to come in here once to play with mom's make-up with some of her pageant friends, so she snuck into Lisa's room and opened a safe that had a lot of her passwords," Lana said.
"How did she open the safe?" Lincoln asked. "How did she get the combination?"
"She didn't, she used that thing doctors use to check your heartbeat," Lana said. "You know Lola, if she wants a secret found out, she will stop at nothing to find it."
"That has me worried about my secret," Lincoln said.
"Just cover your tracks, and make sure you don't even hint to her who you really are," Lana said. "Now then, enough of your questions, I have some of my own."
"Alright, go for it," Lincoln said.
"For starters, how long have you had spider powers?" Lana asked.
"About a month," Lincoln said. "I got bitten by a spider at the Great Lakes Zoo."
"You mean the day you fainted, and Lori had to bring you home?" Lana asked.
"Yeah, that was due to the spider bite," Lincoln explained. "Since then, I've had powers. I can crawl on walls." Lincoln leapt up to demonstrate. "Lift really heavy objects," he picked up a table and mattress while seamlessly juggling them, much to Lana's amazement. "I also move really fast." Lincoln ran along the walls, appearing behind Lana once done, all in the matter of a couple of seconds.
"Whoa! Awesome!" Lana said. "What about your webs? I see them usually coming out of your wrist, is there a hole in your body that lets it happen? Can you shoot them out of your mouth? Or your nose? Or even your butt!?"
"No to everything, especially the last one," Lincoln said. "I make the webs myself using some chemicals and stuff. It's pure science."
"Wow, you really went 'Lisa' on us," Lana teased. "Still, that's amazing. So, all this time, you were the one fighting those bad guys. Guys like The Shocker, Vulture and Kraven. Really appreciated the last one, that guy sucks."
"Yeah, they were tough foes," Lincoln said.
"Honestly, the Kraven fight is what really started to tip me off, especially with you coming out smelling like perfume," Lana said. "Stella tried to cover it up, but I already knew."
"We really had no intention of tricking you," Lincoln said. "Well maybe a little but it's not like we wanted to mess with you or anything."
"I know, you needed to have your secret identity, I get that," Lana said. "But it does kind of sting that you didn't even want to tell any of us, we're your family after all."
"I know, but I'm afraid that if you knew then something bad might happen," Lincoln said. "Plus, I didn't want any of you worrying about me."
"Well now that I know, I guess I'm going to be the one worrying about you," Lana said. "It's going to be tough, but I believe in you. Plus you have Christina at your side, you're even friends with Black Widow! Does that mean you know all of The Avengers?"
"No, just her," Lincoln said.
"Still, that's a good start," Lana said, thinking over everything her brother just told her. "Wow, all those rescues too, so many people you saved...even me that one time."
"You mean the mall?" Lincoln asked.
"No, I mean...the first time you were Spider-Man, when Lily and I got taken hostage," Lana said, affectionately eyeing her older brother. "You came to save me. To save us."
"Well yeah, of course," Lincoln said. "Even if I wasn't a hero, I would have come, you're my sister after all."
"Well...thanks for that," Lana said, quickly hugging her brother. "You're the best."
"Sure, anything Lans," Lincoln said, patting her head. "You should probably head back to Lola and her friends."
"Yeah, I should," Lana said. "Come on, we'll get out of this place together before any of Lisa's back up traps spring."
"Uh, right, let's move," Lincoln said, quickly exiting the bunker.
The following morning after breakfast, Lola and her friends were sitting in front of the TV, still in their PJs and each of them eating a bowl of sugary cereal. Lincoln sat on the couch, flipping through the channels while Lana sat next to him, sipping out of a juice carton.
"Linky, are you gonna pick something?" Lola asked.
"I'm looking for something good, but everything's kind of boring," Lincoln said.
"If you're having trouble picking, then let me have the remote," Lola said.
"You're not gonna watch something too girly, are you?" Lincoln asked.
"Yeah, none of your dumb girly-girl shows," Lana said.
"Then let me pick!" Lynn shouted, cannon balling onto the couch and knocking both Lincoln and Lana off.
"Lynn!" Lincoln scolded as he stood himself up while helping Lana.
"Not cool, sis!" Lana said, getting back on her feet.
"Hey you were the ones who couldn't make up your minds," Lynn said, switching the channel. "So I'm making it up for you."
"Fine by us, just next time be cooler about this," Lincoln scolded. "Sometimes I wish this danger sense of mine would warn me about Lynn, guess she's not much of a threat."
"Alright, let's try to find a game to watch," Lynn said.
"Oh come on, sports!?" Lola asked.
"Sorry, should I put on one of your dorky cartoons?" Lynn asked. "Or your annoying pageant shows?"
"Oooh, you're lucky I have company over," Lola said.
"Speaking of company, where are Sid and Ronnie Anne?" Lincoln asked.
"Probably slept in, my sister's lazy and Ronnie Anne's apartment can be loud, so she gets early morning wake ups," Adelaide said. "Kind of surprised you woke up sooner than you did."
"Well sleeping in is fun but you might also miss breakfast," Lincoln said. "And I don't think Ronnie Anne has to worry about running out of food since her abuela always makes sure someone is fed."
"Her grandmother makes some good food, hope she comes by for Thanksgiving," Lynn said. "That's something I'd be thankful for."
"Let's wait for Halloween to pass before we start thinking about Thanksgiving," Lincoln said.
"Speak for yourself Linky, I'm already setting up my Christmas list," Lola said. "You can never be too early to reach out to Santa."
"Stinkin's got a point, I gotta pick out my costume," Lynn said.
"I already have mine," Lincoln said.
"Is it Ace Savvy?" Lynn asked.
"Huh? No! I'm going as Captain America, remember?" Lincoln said.
"Oh right, you and your friends are doing that dorky Avengers thing," Lynn said.
"It's not dorky!" Lincoln said.
"Seriously Lynn, be cool," Lana said. "Lola and I are going to do a ninja theme."
"I want mine to look pretty though," Lola said. "Thankfully Linky was nice enough to show me some of his manga, which had such pretty costumes for female ninjas. What were they called again?"
"Kunoichi," Lincoln said.
"Right, I'm going to be a kunoichi," Lola said.
"I'd love to see it," Cricket said. "Wish I had a matching costume I could do with someone."
"Don't worry, we can think of something like that to do next year," Lola said. "You, me and Meli can pick out a group costume. Maybe Adelaide too if she comes."
"Wait, Lola, you don't want to keep up the group costume thing with me?" Lana asked.
"Hey it's fun, but sometimes I want to try newer things," Lola said. "Just because we're twins doesn't mean we have to match in everything. We're already opposite as it is."
"Uh, yeah, I guess so," Lana said.
"We'll still do the ninja thing, only because I like the costumes in the manga," Lola said. "Though I suppose I should be too careful not to show off too much skin. Don't want to turn too many heads toward me. Then again..."
"Hoping to woo that wussy blonde boy?" Lynn teased.
"Hey! Don't trash talk Winston!" Lola scolded.
"I don't see what's so great about him," Lynn said. "He's just you, only a boy. Are you that much of a narcissist that you gotta date someone who looks exactly like you?"
"To be fair, if Lola were a boy, I'd want to date her," Adelaide said.
"Aw, I'm so flattered Adelaide," Lola said. "I may not be a boy, but I'll let you treat me to something nice if you really want to."
"Honestly, I would do it just to rub it in Carl's face that I dated a pretty girl before he did," Adelaide said.
"How can one girl date another?" Meli asked. "Isn't it only supposed to be between a boy and a girl?"
"It's just a joke dear, don't think about it too much," Lola said.
"Oh, okay," Meli said.
Cricket whispered to Lola, "She doesn't know about that stuff?"
"No, her parents probably aren't ready to have that talk, so we keep it on the down low with her," Lola whispered back. "We do the same with Lily. It's a pain in the neck explaining straight relationships, adding anything else is even worse."
"I gotta say, I figured if Adelaide was going to date anyone one, it'd be Lana, not Lola," Lynn said. "If anything Lana is the only other one of us who would be willing to date a girl."
"Lynn, you heard Lola say she's joking, right?" Lana asked. "Also, I have a crush on a boy. His name's Skippy."
"Didn't he turn you down?" Lynn asked.
"No! He just hasn't returned my feelings yet. I can wait though," Lana said.
"Do you really want to date him? He's always covered in grease," Lola said.
"Duh, that's attractive!" Lana said.
"Ew, in what world?" Lola asked.
"Hey come on, let Lana have her crush," Lincoln said.
"What about you? Seems like you've gotten closer to Jordan," Lynn said.
"Close!?" Lincoln asked, the boy nervously sweating before laughing it off. "Uh, we're just friends, that's all."
"Don't bullshit me," Lynn said.
"Lynn! Not in front of the girls!" Lincoln scolded.
"At least not in front of Meli," Lola said.
"Is that one of those words I shouldn't repeat?" Meli asked.
"Yes dear, don't repeat such uncouth language like that," Lana said.
Lynn rolled her eyes in annoyance, "Point is, she was clearly very close to you last night."
"I was just comforting her," Lincoln insisted.
"That's beyond comforting, that girl has the hots for you, bro," Lynn said. "And something tells me you have the hots for her. You need to claim your territory with her."
"Kind of did last night but Lynn doesn't need to know what we did in that Jacuzzi," Lincoln thought to himself, before speaking aloud. "I don't want to rush things."
"Oh, so there is interest, awesome," Lynn said.
"Wait, that's not...ugh, never mind," Lincoln said.
"You don't need to be embarrassed bro," Lynn said. "Look, if you're worried about any meddling, don't. We meant it when we promised to take a step back."
"Yeah, we'll only step in if you need it," Lola said. "If you like a girl, stop being so shy about it and let us know. You have ten sisters, that's a great advantage for a boy that you need to exploit."
"Ugh, fine, I admit that I have thought about Jordan a few times," Lincoln said. "It's just complicated since we're already friends. If things don't work out, that could hurt our friendship."
"I get what you mean, but if you two really are good friends, you'd be willing to take the chance," Lynn said. "And if things don't work out, I think your friendship is strong enough to survive."
"Leni had that one guy she liked, they didn't really work out but they're still friends," Lola said.
"Which guy?" Cricket asked.
"Some fat guy that Leni is way too cute for," Lola said.
"Lola, that was harsh!" Lincoln scolded.
"Yeah seriously," Lana said.
"Oh grow up," Lola said. "I'm just being honest."
"Let's focus on what's actually important here," Lynn said. "Lincoln, just ask Jordan on a date. It's easy."
"I don't know, after Emma I don't think I can pull of the boyfriend thing," Lincoln said.
"Don't let one failure stop you," Lynn said."When I lose a game, what do I do?"
"Blame everyone except yourself?" Lola said.
"Call Lincoln 'bad luck'?" Lana added.
"First, I don't blame others Lola, and second...that's just cruel Lana," Lynn said.
"A little uncalled for I admit," Lincoln said.
"The real answer is that I train to get better and come back stronger," Lynn said. "You gotta do that too Lincoln. Don't be a wuss, be a man!"
"If it's any consolation Lincoln, I would date you if I could," Cricket said. "Even with your prior break-up. I say Emma is the one at a loss rather than you."
"Wow, that's nice of you, Cricket," Lincoln said.
"See? Even that little girl likes you," Lynn said, flipping channels. "And anyway...oh hey, it's that Jameson guy."
"Spider-Man's a Menace!" Jameson said, annoying Lincoln and Lana.
"Is that his go-to line or something?" Lana asked.
"Last night, I had the honor of attending a party hosted by one Johnathan Rosato," Jameson said. "When suddenly some creep called The Chameleon appeared! He wasn't alone either, he was joined by his two cohorts, Spider-Man and his mother, The Black Widow."
"Mother!?" Lincoln shouted.
"Oh yeah, Black Widow is Spider-Man's mom or something," Lynn said. "He tried to deny it, but he totally called her 'mom' at the party. How lame."
"Natasha's not gonna like this," Lincoln thought to himself.
"You heard it here, so-called Avenger Black Widow caused trouble here in Royal Woods, she and that dastardly son of hers teamed with The Chameleon to ruin a great party!" Jameson said.
"That's so not what happened though!" Cricket said.
"Thus, now Royal Woods must beware when it comes to...The Spiders of Crime!" Jameson said. "And I know what you're thinking. 'Oh, but Black Widow saved New York'. Bah, it's her fault that all happened in the first place! I still believe she was an agent to those aliens!"
Lana angrily gritted her teeth. She never liked Jameson insulting Spider-Man before. Now that she knows it's her brother, his insults felt much more personal.
"One day perhaps, Royal Woods will be free of this menace, but that day feels a long way from now," Jameson said. "Remember, he's no hero. The real heroes are the fine men and women of our police force who truly apprehend these villains. Don't ever trust a spider though, they will bite!"
"What a turd," Lincoln said.
"Eh, Spider-Man gets what he deserves," Lynn said.
"Um, didn't he save you last night?" Lincoln asked. "That's what I heard."
"I didn't need saving, he was just trying to look cool," Lynn said, then noticed Lisa standing beside her. "Whoa, where did you come from?"
"I just got here, it was not my intent to spook you or anything," Lisa said.
"You'd have to be as quiet as Lucy to do that," Lynn said. "Anyway you just missed it, Jameson totally dissed Spider-Man and Black Widow."
"As expected of him," Lisa said, holding out her laptop. "However, it does relate to what I want to show you here. Apparently someone caught a really nice picture at the party, which happened to have you as a main subject."
"Me? Did I do something awesome?" Lynn asked.
"Er...not quite," Lisa said, handing over the laptop. "See for yourself, but try not to overreact."
"Pfft, what would I have to overreact about..." Lynn saw a picture of her being held by Spider-Man. "Okay, it says here something about Spider-Man this girl in a lover's...embrace?"
"Lover's what now!?" Lola asked.
Lynn read over the article, "The Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man has a sweetheart!? Local school athlete Lynn Loud Junior!?"
Lincoln's face turned blue, "I'm sorry, sweetheart?"
"This thing says I'm dating Spider-Man!" Lynn shouted in annoyance as she stormed off. "I am SO going to find out who took that picture and beat the hell out of him! Or her! Or both if there's two! No one says that Lynn Loud is dating Spider-Man and gets away with it!"
As she walked, both Ronnie Anne and Sid had come out of the basement.
"Lynn's dating Spider-Man!?" Sid asked. "Lucky..."
"I'm gonna need some context here," Ronnie Anne said, heading to the living room. "Sup everyone?"
"Oh hey, you're awake," Lincoln said.
"Yeah...what's with Lynn?" Sid asked.
"Well, it all started when Jameson covered The Chameleon showing up, then it led to a huge misunderstanding," Lola said.
"Sounds...interesting," Ronnie Anne said.
"Long story short, someone said Lynn was...dating Spider-Man," Lincoln almost felt sick saying that, to which Lana rubbed his back. "It was really weird."
"Well hey, if they don't work out, let me know, and I will soothe his heartbreak," Sid said.
"Will you shut up!?" Ronnie Anne said. "Hey Lincoln, is there any food made?"
"I can help whip something up for you girls," Lincoln said, hopping off the couch. "Come with me."
"Awesome, a bit of chef Lincoln," Sid said, heading to the kitchen with Ronnie Anne.
This left the younger girls to themselves as Lana grabbed the remote, "So...cartoons?"
"Sounds good," Lola said, her friends agreeing as Lana turned to the right channel.
The weekend came and went, Bobby along with Lori, Ronnie Anne, Sid and Adelaide returned to Great Lakes while everyone else had to go back to school.
Upon arriving through the doors of Royal Woods Middle School, Lincoln had one objective on his mind, "Alright, I gotta find Jordan."
He started by searching for her locker, that being the safest bet of course. As he looked though, he spotted the girl talking with Mollie. Jordan seemed to be in slightly better spirits this time, though Lincoln couldn't tell just how real her emotions were.
It didn't take long for the girl to notice Lincoln in the corner of her eye, calling him over right afterwards, "Hey, Linky! Over here!"
"Just the guy we were talking about," Mollie said.
"Wait, you were talking about me?" Lincoln asked. "Uh, nothing bad, right?"
"Don't worry Linky, you're good," Jordan said. "Mollie, I'll catch up with you later."
"Sounds good, and don't skimp on the details," Mollie said, making her leave.
Jordan turned her attention to Lincoln, her usually flirty expression dominating her face, "You came to see me?"
"Yeah, so...about the party," Lincoln began. "I...we...it's that..."
"Someone's speechless," Jordan said.
"Sorry, I had it planned in my head, it just won't leave my mouth," Lincoln said.
"It's cool, I know you can get a little stuttery at times," Jordan said. "Take it slow and say what you want to say."
"Right," Lincoln cleared his throat. "So...Jordan, are you doing anything this weekend?"
"Aw, now was that so hard?" Jordan teased. "Sorry, couldn't resist. But wow, asking me on a date? You must have really enjoyed our time in the Jacuzzi. Want a second round?"
"It's not that, I just feel like we took such a large step that day and I want to make sure we have a good foundation for a relationship," Lincoln said. "I want us to have more than the intimate stuff. I want us to have something really special that can last. But I have to know for sure that we're meant to be. I want to be with you, but we need to slow back down."
"Well, slowing down might be tough given the jacuzzi, but I do enjoy your company," Jordan said. "If you want to dial it back then we can do that. Just some basic hugs and hand holding. Maybe a kiss or two."
"I'm glad you understand," Lincoln said. "I do like you Jordan, I just want to make sure we're good as boyfriend and girlfriend. What I am afraid of is losing you as a friend though. If things don't work out, it could affect our friendship."
"I know the risk, and selfish as it is for me to say, I think it's worth taking the chance," Jordan said. "If you want something in life, go for it. Don't worry too much about consequence, just try to be happy."
"I wish I could be as optimistic as you," Lincoln said.
"You can be," Jordan said, walking over and wrapping her arms around the boy. "I hardly think there's a risk. I already feel a special connection to you, and it's not just because of how intimate we got in the jacuzzi, though it did add to it. I feel a connection because we've known each other for a few years now, I predate all your other female friends. Stella, Christina, Sid, Ronnie Anne..."
"To be fair, I met Christina and Ronnie Anne around the same time I met you," Lincoln said.
"Well I was in your class, I never switched out or bullied you," Jordan said.
"Didn't you once threaten that my social life would take a nosedive if I messed up the whole 'Going Green' thing?" Lincoln said.
Jordan then began to pinch Lincoln's cheeks, forcing a smile despite her annoyance, "Lincoln, I'm trying to sweet talk you here. Stop ruining it."
"Uh, sorry..." Lincoln said, not really feeling pain but he did feel a bit awkward. "Can you please let go?"
"Gladly," Jordan said, releasing her grip. "I'll admit I haven't always been friendly, but people make mistakes. Besides, I always thought you were cute, but emotions just weren't my strong suit. Not until puberty began to hit. Now you're pretty much all I think about, gets me through a bad day."
"Wow, I'm flattered," Lincoln said. "So...this is a yes for the weekend, right?"
"Duh," Jordan said. "It doesn't have to be fancy either, you can take me to a hot dog stand for all I care. I just want to hang out."
"That sounds great," Lincoln said.
Jordan leaned in to lock Lincoln in a quick kiss, "See you around, handsome."
As Jordan left, Lincoln felt relieved to know that things were looking optimistic, though deep down he still felt strange about all this. "Weird going back to the basics after everything that's happened. But at least next time we get that close, it will feel earned. I just have to know that it was all worth it."
"Lincoln!" Came Chloe's voice, the girl getting his attention.
"Oh Chloe, did you need something?" Lincoln asked.
"Just wanted to be sure you were coming over later," Chloe said. "I have a quiz some time this week and I want to be ready for it."
"Sure, I can come over tonight," Lincoln said. "I'll text you."
"Good, and remember, it's a secret," Chloe said.
"Yeah, I know," Lincoln said.
"Catch you later," Chloe made her leave, as did Lincoln, the boy heading to class.
Meanwhile in Great Lakes, Ronnie Anne was getting the stuff out of her locker as well, alongside Sid.
"So, has anyone asked you about the party?" Sid asked.
"Not yet, but the day's just started," Ronnie Anne said. "Nikki and the others are probably on their way to-"
"Yo! Ronnie Anne! Sid!" Nikki called. "Crazy weekend, huh?"
"Like predicting the sunrise," Ronnie Anne said, then turned to her friend. "Hey Nikki. Yeah, crazy weekend."
"Not only Spider-Man this time, but Black Widow, an actual Avenger," Casey said. "That's pretty awesome."
"Is she really Spider-Man's mother though?" Nikki asked.
"I don't know, but a lot of people are speculating that she is," Ronnie Anne said.
"Is it me, or does it seem like every time you go to Royal Woods, you run into a supervillain?" Casey asked.
"That is kind of strange, isn't it?" Ronnie Anne asked. "Guess Royal Woods just isn't safe these days. Of course even Great Lakes had trouble."
"Yeah, once," Nikki said. "Meanwhile Royal Woods gets so much more than us. Like, who was the last guy again? The Gecko or something?"
"The word you're looking for is...THE CHAMELEON!" Sid shouted.
"Don't start with that stupid joke again, it's not funny and it never was!" Ronnie Anne said, startling her friend.
"Right, sorry Ronnie," Sid sheepishly said.
"Whoa, someone's snappy," Sameer said.
"Hey, you didn't have to hear her shouting that all weekend while acting paranoid that someone was a shapeshifter," Ronnie Anne said. "Thankfully he's been defeated and won't have to deal with that nonsense."
"To be fair, I didn't shout it that much," Sid said.
"Just put an end to it already, nothing worse than a bad joke that doesn't know when to fizzle out," Ronnie Anne said. "Point is, it was a rough weekend but we're fine, so that's all that matters. I would appreciate it if we can move on and-"
"Santiago!" Came the voice of Becky, the young blonde girl rushing over with a phone in her hand. "I heard you and Chang ran into a villain!"
"Yeah, it happened over the weekend," Ronnie Anne said. "So you heard about it too?"
"Yeah, says his name is the...Cham-Eh-Leon," Becky said.
"It's pronounced...THE CHAMELEON!" Sid said, earning a bonk from Ronnie Anne. "Ow!"
"Sid! Shut, the fuck, up!" Ronnie Anne warned, Sid quickly backing away.
"...Yo Ronnie, are you sure you're alright? You seem really on edge," Nikki said.
"Let me guess, your abuela was super worried and has been bugging you all weekend about this," Casey said.
"Well yeah, my grandma was a pain but it wasn't that bad," Ronnie Anne said. "I'm just so damn tired of the joke."
"Seems like Spider-Man was there, along with Black Widow. And apparently she's his mother, cool," Becky said. "Did you or Sid get to do a little smoochy stuff with him? Or did Mama Widow forbid any interactions with her little boy?"
"Becky, I'm not dating Spider-Man, give it a rest!" Ronnie Anne said.
"Yeah, I wish I could make-out with Spider-Man, but I never got the chance to," Sid said, much to Ronnie Anne's annoyance.
"You may never, says here he's dating some girl named Lynn Loud Junior. Let's hope she's okay with Mama Widow," Becky said, then realizing something. "Wait, Loud...Santiago, is this girl possibly related to your ex-boyfriend, Lincoln Loud?"
Ronnie Anne rolled her eyes in annoyance, "First off, he's not my ex-boyfriend, he's just a friend from Royal Woods. Second, yes that's one of his sisters, she's an athletic type like you, only more obnoxious."
"Think she'd be willing to wrestle me?" Becky asked, paying no mind to Ronnie Anne's insult.
"Probably, she might kick your ass though, she's pretty tough," Ronnie Anne said.
"Fine by me," Becky said. "But don't doubt my Lucha Libre skills. Even you couldn't stand a chance."
"That's because you and your friend double teamed me while Sid here got way too easily distracted," Ronnie Anne said.
"I can't help it, I have a natural curiosity about things," Sid said.
"Also, I really doubt Lynn Loud is dating Spider-Man considering she hates him," Ronnie Anne said.
"Well the internet says otherwise," Becky said.
"You believe everything you hear?" Ronnie Anne asked. "Not my problem anyway."
"Any pictures of us on there?" Sid asked.
"Yeah, you're standing here with a bunch of kids," Becky said, showing off the picture.
"That'd be Lincoln's friend group," Ronnie Anne said.
Becky looked it over, "Who's the cute kid with the glasses?"
"You mean Clyde McBride?" Ronnie Anne asked.
"Huh? Why does his first name rhyme with his last name?" Casey asked.
"Don't ask me, ask his parents," Ronnie Anne said. "I don't know if they named him when they adopted him or if they just happened to find a boy whose name sounds like their last name."
"Still, that's just so damn unlucky," Casey said.
"Well unlucky or not, he's kind of cute, think you can hook us up?" Becky asked.
"Aren't you only into girls?" Casey asked.
"I want to experiment," Becky said.
"Also, don't you have a girlfriend?" Nikki asked.
"I had one…don't ask," Becky said. "So, about Clyde."
"He lives in Royal Woods, can you handle long distance?" Ronnie Anne asked.
"Maybe," Becky insisted.
"Also I think he has a girlfriend already, so you're out of luck," Ronnie Anne said.
"Oh, well that sucks," Becky said. "Let me know if they break up."
"Uh, sure," Ronnie Anne said. "Just...why Clyde?"
"Yeah, no offense to him but he's not much of a looker," Sid said. "Also he's really annoying sometimes. Like I can't imagine being around someone so zany and eccentric who doesn't know when to shut up."
"Yeah...so mysterious..." an annoyed Ronnie Anne said.
"Look, everyone has a type, and I kind of like the dorks," Becky said.
"Then date Laird or something," Sid said.
"I tried, he says I'm too intimidating to date," Becky said.
"Oof, that sucks," Sid said. "Guys like him should be grateful if a girl looks his way at all."
"Okay what's with you being so judgy and shallow all of a sudden?" Ronnie Anne asked.
"Would you date Clyde or Laird?" Sid asked.
"Well...no, but I wouldn't be rude about it," Ronnie Anne said. "Oh, is it because someone assumed you were dating Clyde?"
"It was super annoying," Sid said.
"When did that happen again?" Nikki asked.
"Last year, someone found out about Lincoln and Ronnie Anne, assumed they were dating, then assumed that because I was Ronnie's bestie and Clyde was Lincoln's that I liked Clyde," Sid said. "He is not my type though, I need my boys handsome. Like Yun Kwan."
Becky looked back at the picture, "He looks handsome to me, maybe you're just not good at using your eyes."
"Or maybe you're not good at using your brain," Sid said.
"Okay, dial it back Sid," Ronnie Anne said. "Focus back on your good mood from earlier."
"You said it was annoying," Sid said.
"I know, but I'll take that over you being mean," Ronnie Anne said, then focused on Becky. "Look, I have nothing more to say right now. If you're done then me and my friends would like to get to class."
"Fine by me, catch you later," Becky said, heading off.
"Consider getting back together with Dodge!" Sid called. "I hope this Clyde thing is just a weird post breakup phase that she'll snap out of."
"Man, the shame laid upon Clyde McBride," Casey said, laughing to himself. "Still, such a weird name."
"Oh be quiet, I think it's cute," Nikki said.
"Uh, wow, okay, if you say so," Casey said.
"Enough chatter, we're gonna be late. Now let's go," Ronnie Anne said, everyone joining her in going to class.
At the Royal Woods High School, Lynn had made her way into her gym locker room at the day's end, spotting some friends of hers. "Yo, Margo, Paula. Ready for the big game this week?"
"Yeah, I'm pumped about it," Marco said, applying some deodorant.
"Same," Paula said, the accident-prone girl reaching for her crutch. "But I'm a bit more curious about you."
"What about me?" Lynn asked, taking off her shirt.
"What's this about you dating Spider-Man?" Paula asked, much to Lynn's annoyance.
"Let me guess, you saw that stupid picture online?" Lynn asked.
"Hey it's cool if you are, glad you're open to the idea of Spider-Man after all this time," Paula said.
"Super open, especially if you're dating him," Paula said.
"I am not dating Spider-Man, he is not my type," Lynn said, pulling down her shorts as well.
"Hey no one's judging," Margo said, placing her skirt on. "But the other girls on our squad, they may have some questions."
"Yeah, a brand new cheer for you," Paula said. "One for you and your hubby."
"Unless they want broken noses, they should keep their mouths shut," Lynn said, placing on her cheerleader clothes. "Seriously, I'm not dating Spider-Man, so drop it."
"Alright fine," Margo said. "But you know you can trust us with a secret, right?"
"Yeah, totally," Lynn said, grabbing her pom poms. "Alright, lets cheer our butts off!"
"Sounds good to me," Margo said.
"Totally," Paula said, all three girls ready.
Later after classes for the Middle School students, after some patrolling, Lincoln had gone over to Chloe's house to help her prepare for her quiz. Meanwhile Stella was tending to her Halloween costume, hoping to make it look as great as possible.
"Gotta make this perfect," Stella said, adding some material to the costume to make it look less fake.
"Stella?" Came Natasha's voice, the woman entering the base.
"Hey Nat..." Stella's eyes widened. "Nat! Whoa, didn't expect to see you here."
"I came by just in case Lincoln or Christina were around, but I guess they went home," Natasha said.
"Christina did, Lincoln's tutoring Chloe," Stella explained.
"Ah right, I personally assigned the two," Natasha said ,taking note of the costume. "Going for a new look?"
"Oh this? It's just my Halloween costume," Stella said, the girl blushing a bit. "Not sure if I mentioned it, but I am going as you."
"I am fully aware of Lincoln's plans, you two and your friends are dressing up as me and my friends," Natasha said.
"Yeah, Lincoln is going to be Captain America, our friend Clyde is Iron Man, Rusty is Thor, Liam is Hawkeye, Zach is The Hulk, and I'm you," Stella said. "I'm trying to make this costume look good though."
"I can help," Natasha said.
"Oh, you don't have to, I know you're busy," Stella said. "Plus, it's a little embarrassing."
"How is it embarrassing? That you're dressing up for Halloween? Lots of people do that, of all different ages too," Natasha said. "It's a good time to just have fun and unleash your imagination."
"I know but...I'm dressing as you," Stella said.
"So? I've seen girls dress like me before," Natasha said. "I've even seen guys do it."
"...Huh?" Stella asked.
"Yeah, it's strange but they're just having fun," Natasha said. "Seriously, I'm flattered you want to go as me. Besides, in a way, we're just sharing a costume. I may be the actual Black Widow but it's more of a job than who I actually am."
"Oh yeah, outside of your job, you're just Natasha Romanoff," Stella said. "Is it easy for you to turn off that superhero side to you?"
"Honestly, I barely consider myself a superhero, I'm more of a spy," Natasha said. "And it doesn't turn off, I just set it aside until I need it. Never know when danger is going to strike."
"Sounds tough, guess that's Lincoln too in a way," Stella said. "He tries to switch it off but I can tell he's got a lot of Spider-Man in his mind. Like you, Spider-Man isn't who he is, it's what he does. I guess Christina can relate."
"Being a hero, or a spy, isn't easy," Natasha said. "But it's worth it to keep people safe."
"I appreciate what you and The Avengers do, you're all amazing," Stella said, glancing at her costume. "Am I even worthy to resemble you, though?"
"Hey now, where is this coming from?" Natasha asked.
"You're confident, and I'm not," Stella said. "You know what you want, and I still can't figure out my future."
"You're only thirteen, give it time," Natasha said.
"But I'm going to be in High School soon, and my mom says I should have my goals picked out," Stella said. "I want to work with tech, but I don't even know where to start."
"You have options," Natasha said. "I can ask Tony Stark if he needs an intern. Maybe once you graduate College, or even High School, you can get started on that."
"Is it really okay for you to vouch for me? Seems unfair," Stella said.
"Here's a tip about life, it's all about connections," Natasha said. "If you know someone who can help you get ahead, make use of it. If it were anyone else, they'd do the same thing. I can see that you're an intelligent girl, so if anything I'd be doing Tony a favor too."
"Wow really? Thanks," Stella said, sheepishly rubbing her head as a blush formed on her face.
"Listen Stella, like I said before, you're a wonderful young girl," Natasha said, placing her hand on her head. "You're the type of daughter I wish I had. Kind, but also a go-getter. You do such a great job helping Lincoln and you always put in a good effort. I've seen your grades in school, and it's nothing but As. You have such a bright future, and I will do what I can for you to achieve that future."
Stella's eyes got watery as she pulled Natasha in for a hug, "Thanks, that means a lot."
"Uh...sure," Natasha said. While she didn't mind the hug, she wasn't good with emotion like this. Despite that she did briefly return the hug. "Come on, that's enough now. Regain yourself."
Stella backed up a little, "Right, I'm sorry."
"Oh don't be sorry. It's not you, it's me," Natasha said. "Let's just focus on fixing up this costume. Make it look glamorous."
"Right..." Stella subconsciously clutched her breasts, this not going unnoticed by Natasha.
"And remember, don't be ashamed of yourself," Natasha said. "You're a very beautiful young woman, be proud."
"Geez...you're making want to hug you again," Stella said.
Natasha moved in close, pulling Stella into a side hug, "There you go."
"Oh, so you are a hugger?" Stella teased.
"I can make an exception for you," Natasha said. "Come on, let's make this costume look great."
Time passed by, it was nearly Halloween as the decorations were up, and everyone had their costumes ready.
Lola was trying out her kunoichi costume, which had even come with a fan. "Wow, I really pull this look off, don't I?"
Nearby was Cricket, the girl dressed like a ballerina. "I'll say...but isn't it a bit revealing?"
"You mean my legs?" Lola asked. "I'm wearing shorts. It's totally age appropriate."
Meli, who was dressed like a maid, also looked over the outfit, "Well...I think it's fine. It's pretty, just like Lola."
"Thanks dear," Lola said.
"Lola would never dress in anything full body anyway," Lana said, trying out her ninja costume, which covered everything, even her face. With the exception of her eyes.
"Wish you did more with your costume, it looks like Lynn's old ninja costume," Lola said.
"It works for me," Lana said.
"Do your other sisters have their costumes?" Cricket asked.
"They should have picked them out by now," Lola said. "Same with Lincoln."
"Wait, who's Lincoln going to be?" Cricket asked.
"I'm glad you asked," Came Lincoln's voice, the boy stepping into the room in his costume. "I am the defender of The American Dream! The First Avenger and savior of the world! I am...Captain America!" The boy raised his shield. "Avengers Assemble!"
All four girls stared in disbelief.
"Just as dorky as ever," Lola teased.
"Hey!" Lincoln said.
"So much for being nicer, Lola," Lana said.
"Hey I'm all for Linky dressing up how he wants, I just think he's being dorky about it," Lincoln said.
"It's a cute dorky though," Cricket said, walking over to the boy. "Still, nice costume, you look just like Cap!"
"Thanks, I worked to add a bit of extra details so it didn't look cheap," Lincoln said.
"Seems like you worked hard on those abs, mind if I?" Upon getting a nod, Cricket felt Lincoln's abs. "Wow, they almost feel real!"
"That came with extra work," Lincoln said. "And a spider bite."
Cricket pressed her face into Lincoln's abs, making the boy feel a bit uncomfortable. "You feel so strong, if this was you I'd want to be your girlfriend right now."
Meli also walked over, wrapping herself around Lincoln, "You do feel strong, I feel safe around you."
"Aw, thanks," Lincoln said. "And now Lola's friends are flirting with me."
"Do you have a date for Halloween?" Cricket asked.
"Yeah, I have Jordan," Lincoln said.
"Linky finally has another girlfriend," Lola said. "I trust you and Jordan are doing well?"
"We're taking it slow, but it's going well," Lincoln said.
"Slow huh?" Came Luna's voice, the girl dressed like a Mexican Mariachi player. "Well let us know when your love starts to Kick it up a Notch."
"Wow, you look great, Luna," Lincoln said.
"Thanks, I got some tips from Ronnie Anne's grandparents," Luna said. "Me and the band are hoping to go for a Dia de Los Muertos look too. So we might paint our faces to look like skulls."
"Just don't be total bone heads!" Luan joked, coming into view while wearing a medieval princess attire. "Get it?"
"Right..." Luna said. "So, princess huh?"
"Sure am, and Benny's my prince," Luan said.
"Wow, you look so pretty Luan," Cricket said.
"You've really come into your own in recent years, sis," Lincoln said.
"Thanks Lincoln," Luan said.
"Is Lori coming by for Halloween?" Cricket asked.
"She might not, she's going to attend a party," Luan said. "I think Leni's traveling out to meet up with her."
"I am," Leni said. Everyone looked to see that she was dressed like a Sugar Plum Fairy. "So, how do I look?"
"You look great," Luan said.
"But um...that feels more like a Christmas theme than Halloween," Luna said.
"Well, Christmas is my favorite Holiday, so it's like I'm celebrating it twice this year," Leni said.
"Honestly, it's a bit silly that some places are already decorating for Christmas, especially when we still have Thanksgiving," Luna said.
"Even dad put out some candy canes," Luan said.
"Wait, what for?" Lana asked.
"So Halloween doesn't spook him out too much," Luna said. "It's not even that bad, not everyone dresses like ghosts or witches."
"Except Lucy and Lynn," Lola said, gesturing to the two girls. Lucy was wearing a tattered hoodie while holding a ghostly spell book while Lynn was dressed like a witch.
"I'll be coming for that candy, my pretties!" Lynn said in the best witch voice she could muster before clearing her throat to speak normally. "At least the chocolate, that's the best stuff."
"Nice costume girls," Lincoln said.
"Thanks dork," Lynn said, much to Lincoln's annoyance.
"You have a good costume too, big brother," Lucy said. "You put a lot of care into it."
"Thanks, so did you," Lincoln said.
"Me and my friends are all wearing something like this, we'll be the Ghosts of Royal Woods," Lucy said. "We'll haunt every house on Halloween night, it will be fun."
"There's someone who appreciates Halloween, not like the wusses who don't even want to decorate because it's...too scary," Lynn said. "Like seriously, when's the last time you saw a kid dressed like a vampire? Now it's all superheroes and secret agents. Then you have Leni who thinks it's Christmas."
"That's the point!" Leni said.
"You got someone to dress like a Nutcracker too?" Lynn asked.
"Yeah, Gavin's going to be," Leni said.
"...Wow," Lynn said.
"Lynn, you need to chill, how about flying Somewhere over the Rainbow?" Luna teased.
"Wow...sounds great," Lynn sarcastically commented. "Hey, maybe since you have a girlfriend, you can find me all the rainbows I need!"
"Okay, that was just you being a dick just now," Luna said.
"That explains why you and Sam don't seem to like me," Lynn joked.
Luna's eyes widened in annoyance, before glaring at Lynn, "You know I'm bi, right!?"
"Can we please watch this type of talk with Meli around?" Lincoln said, reminding everyone of the girl's presence. "Fortunately she's playing with...Lana, is that your rat!?"
"Don't worry, Bitey won't hurt Meli, I trained him not to bite my friends," Lola said.
"Still," Lincoln went to pull Meli away. "We don't want her dress torn or dirtied."
"Thank you for looking out for me," Meli said.
"Any time kid," Lincoln said, rubbing her head.
"Who are the other costumes by the way?" Cricket asked.
"Well Lori's a CEO, Lisa is a robot and Lily is..." Luan saw the girl coming out her room. "There she is."
Cricket and Meli stepped out to find the little girl dressed up like an angel. "How do I look? Is my halo on right?"
"Aw..." Cricket ran to hug Lily, "You're so adorable! You're sweeter than all the candy!"
"Um...thanks," Lily said. "Can you let go?"
"Uh, sorry," Cricket said, backing off. "Still, you're adorable."
"She sure is," Lincoln said, kneeling before her. "A literal angel on Earth."
"You're sweet big brother," Lily said, kissing Lincoln's cheek.
"Ew, gag..." Lynn said, making her exit. "I'm gonna leave before the wussiness gets to me."
"I have to meet my friends," Lucy said, leaving too.
"I have a video chat to get to," Lincoln said. "Lola, Lana, wanna come with me to see if Adelaide's gonna be on call?"
"Oh totally," Lana said.
"Sounds great," Lola said.
"Cricket and Meli can come too," Lincoln said, then picked up Lily. "Wanna join us, Lils?"
"Uh-huh," Lincoln said.
"You do that, I'm gonna call Sam," Luna said.
"I'll call Benny," Luan said.
"And I'l call Gavin, then Lori, then Miguel, and Fiona..." Leni thought it over. "I'll just do a group chat too."
Lincoln brought the girls to his room as he turned on his computer monitor. "Everyone there?"
Coming on screen were each of Lincoln's guy friends, all dressed in their hero costumes.
"All systems ready," Clyde said, emulating Iron Man.
"Zach Smash!" Zach said, slamming his fake green fists together.
"Behold, the power of-" As Rusty tried to shake his hammer, it flew off by mistake. "Dang it!"
"Ah never miss!" Liam said, holding his toy bow and arrow.
"You all look great, but where's Stella?" Lincoln asked.
The last to come on was Stella, the girl dressed in her black suit and wearing a red wig. "Hi boys."
"Whoa..." Rusty said.
"Dang Stella, you look great," Liam said.
"Yeah, amazing," Lincoln said.
"Thanks boys," Stella said, then noticed Lincoln's guests. "Seems like I'm not the only girl here."
"You look pretty," Lily said.
"Aw, you're so sweet Lily," Stella said. "I love your costume, if you come by my house, you're getting extra candy."
"Are you parents even letting you Trick-Or-Treat?" Rusty asked. "You have trouble coming every year."
"Well since mom doesn't like me eating sweets, it's harder to convince her," Stella said. "But I make it work, I just have to be careful how many sweets I consume. I usually end up giving most of it away, so I can just give it to Lincoln's sisters."
"We salute you for that, Stella," Lana said.
"It's no trouble," Stella said. "Where's Ronnie Anne? Is she coming?"
"She'll be here in a second," Lincoln said, then saw another video popping in. "Here she comes."
Coming on screen next was the action movie girl Ronnie Anne, who was amazed by what she saw. "Whoa, all of you are really in the Halloween spirit now."
"Ronnie Anne, you made it!" Stella said. "Wow, nice costume."
"Thanks, for this year I wanted to be my favorite action film star, Phoebe Powers," Ronnie Anne said. "She's probably the toughest girl you'll meet."
"Tch, you sure about that?" Stella asked, playfully brushing her hair back as she willingly let her latex covered breasts be displayed. "You've heard of Black Widow, haven't you? Someone who's not just some actress?"
"Hey, she can kick butt if she wanted to," Ronnie Anne said.
"Yeah, on camera," Stella said. "I doubt she fought aliens, unlike Black Widow."
"Kind of have to give Stella that one," Zach said. "Anyone who can fight an alien is a total badass."
"Oh can it, Zach," Ronnie Anne said.
"Let's take it easy, this is for fun, not a contest," Lincoln said. "Still, you look amazing Ronnie Anne, you really pull off that look."
"Oh...thanks," Ronnie Anne said, the girl blushing a bit.
"Where's Sid?" Rusty asked.
"She's coming on now," Ronnie Anne said, Sid's screen popping up.
"Am I late?" Sid asked, the girl dressed like a cheerleader.
"No, you're good," Lincoln said. "Nice costume."
"Thanks, picked it out myself," Sid said, standing up and shaking her hips a bit. "How do I look?"
"You look amazing," Rusty said.
"Really top notch," Zach said.
"It's alright," Clyde asked.
Sid grimaced at Clyde, then focused on Lincoln, bending over a bit, "What about you Linky? You likey?"
Lincoln awkwardly turned away, especially after seeing her cleavage, "You look great."
"Yeah, it's a cute outfit," Stella said.
"Thanks Stella, you're looking pretty sexy yourself," Sid said. "I bet your butt looks amazing in that outfit."
"Sid!" Ronnie Anne scolded.
Stella stood up a bit, playfully rubbing her hips, "It's a good fit for sure."
"That's bold," Lincoln said. "Didn't expect to see you showing off, Stella."
"I'm in a good mood," Stella said, the girl confidently smiling at the camera. "Gotta be happy with yourself after all."
"Whoa, you gotta give me a private show later," Sid said, winking at Stella. "I'm starting to get the hots for you."
"Um, Stella, Sid," Lincoln gestured to Lily as well as Lola's friends.
"Uh, right, sorry, we got carried away," Stella sheepishly admitted. "We'll move on."
"Sounds good," Lincoln said, as most of the other boys agreed.
"...I still want that private show," Sid said.
"Sid!" Ronnie Anne scolded.
"Well...if you want to talk 'sexy'," Rusty flexed his arm. "None is sexier than the Mighty Thor! Feel my unbridled-" the boy began coughing, having strained his throat. "Ow...crap, why does my-" He coughed again. "Oh I need water."
"What a dork," Lola said. "Anyway, my outfit is clearly the sexiest of them all."
"Lola, you're eight, don't use the word 'sexy'," Lincoln scolded.
Lana turned to Meli, "Don't tell your parents any of this or they'll never let you come back."
"Uh, sure," Meli said.
"Is Adelaide around by the way?" Lana asked.
"Oh yeah, I'll get her," Sid called her sister. "Yo! Adelaide! Come say 'hi' to Lana and Lola!"
"My favorite twins!?" Adelaide, the girl dressed like a cat, had leapt onto Sid's lap. "Hi girls!"
"Whoa, Adelaide, nice costume!" Lana said.
"Hey thanks," Adelaide said.
"Get off of me!" Sid said, throwing her sister off. "I am not a chair!"
"Geez, aggressive much?" Adelaide said, grabbing her own chair.
"I like your costume too," Lincoln said. "You're channeling your inner Neko."
"Dude, did you just say 'Neko'?" Ronnie Anne asked. "You're such a weeb sometimes."
"So? I like anime and manga," Lincoln said.
"It's how Linky helped me pick my costume out," Lola said. "I have reached full kunoichi status."
"Is that Lola's voice?" Carl asked, the boy coming into view.
"Oh, hey Carl," Lincoln greeted. "Did you pick out your costume?"
"Yeah, I'm going as Reptar," Carl said.
"I told him maybe dressing like a lizard is a bad idea, he doesn't want to listen," Ronnie Anne said.
"Hey, I need to bring respect back to lizards and stuff, you're with me on that, aren't you Adelaide?" Carl asked.
"Oh totally," Adelaide said.
Carl immediately took note of the tallest girl in the group, "Hey Stella, you're looking fine. That a Black Widow costume? I know the perfect place for a spider like you to crawl."
"Ew, what the hell Carl!?" Ronnie Anne shouted, kicking the boy away. "That's so not cool!"
"Wow...he's forward," Stella said, the girl feeling a little weird.
"I'm sorry about him, you're not too bothered, are you Stella?" Ronnie Anne asked.
"It's fine, boys will be boys," Stella said.
"And this is why I would never date him," Lola said.
"Carl's not that bad, he just speaks without thinking," Adelaide said.
"Just promise you won't date him," Lola said.
"Lola, not nice," Lana scolded.
"Hey you heard what he said to Stella, he's a creep," Lola said.
"She's not wrong," Rusty said. "Some guys just can't take a clue."
"...Wow dude, even I could see that's a load of garbage," Zach said.
"Oh you wanna go McGirdle!?" Rusty taunted.
"Bring it, Spokes, I got the fists!" Zach bragged, slamming them together yet again.
"And I'm gonna bring down the hammer!" Rusty declared while grabbing his hammer.
"I swear you guys are freaking dorks," Ronnie Anne said.
"Hey!" both Zach and Rusty said.
"Well, at least we all have our costumes, it should be a fun Halloween," Lincoln said.
"What about the other girls?" Ronnie Anne asked. "Christina, Paige, Mollie and Jordan?"
"Christina and Paige are going as Pop Idols," Lincoln said. "Mollie I think is going as a vampire."
"A sexy one," Rusty said.
"Right...and Jordan is going as a genie," Lincoln said.
"She's going to grant Lincoln any wish he wants," Rusty said.
"Will you shut up, already?" Lincoln said. "But yeah, that's the plan."
"Well, hope you all have a good Halloween then," Ronnie Anne said. "Let's chat about this later."
"Sounds good to me," Clyde said. "I gotta call Chloe. She's going to be a mime."
"A mime?" Rusty asked.
"She's been practicing," Clyde said. "Wait till you see it."
"What about Emma?" Liam asked.
"I think she's going to be a jester," Clyde said.
"Funny, Chloe never mentioned that, but I guess she wouldn't unless I happened to ask," Lincoln thought to himself. "Well if she wants tips, she can always come to Luan."
"I'll run it by Chloe," Clyde said. "I'll catch you all later."
"Bye everyone," Lincoln said as they each logged off before turning to the girls. "Alright, who wants some snacks?"
"Are you one the menu?" Cricket asked, shifting her eyebrows up and down.
"Uh, cute," Lincoln said. "Let's just head downstairs."
"Sure, but one question, Linky," Lily said.
"What is it?" Lincoln asked.
"What does 'sexy' mean?" Lily asked.
"I wanted to know too," Meli said.
Lincoln, Lana and Lola could only grimace at their awkward situation while Cricket stifled a laugh.
"Oh this should be good," Cricket said.
Meanwhile with Sid, Adelaide was already long gone. Sid was hungry and wanted a snack, "Wonder if we still have any fudge pops?" Just as she was about to step away from her computer, she heard a notice for a video chat. "Huh?" She looked to see that Stella was calling her directly. "...Is she really going to give me that show?" She turned it on, spotting the somewhat saddened girl.
"Sid, can I ask you something?" Stella asked.
"Sure, of course," Sid said, worried about her friend. "What's wrong?"
"Am I pulling this off?" Stella asked, gesturing to her costume. "Like, am I really that believable?"
"Of course, you've got the body to pull it off," Sid said. "It actually seemed like you were finally embracing your looks."
"I am, or I'm trying to," Stella said. "I worry about getting carried away, and then boys get the wrong idea."
"Hey, if this is about Carl, ignore him. He's just being weird. I should know because I can be that weird," Sid recalled her actions. "Uh...I guess I was since I asked for a private show."
"Well I kind of started it by acting sexy," Stella said. "I've been trying to be more confident, but if boys like Carl get the wrong idea, it's gonna turn me away."
"Don't let it, you're an attractive girl and you should embrace it," Sid said.
"Thanks, so are you," Stella said. "You pull the cheerleader look off really well. I'm so jealous of your confidence."
"You'll get there," Sid said. "Listen, instead of you giving me a show, how about I give you one?"
"You don't have to," Stella said.
"I want to, it's just a cheer, I'm not going to go topless," Sid said. "Unless you want me to."
"I'm fine with the top on!" Stella nervously insisted.
"Your call," Sid began dancing. "Alright, now give me an-"
She immediately slipped on a skateboard and fell back first on the floor, worrying Stella.
"Sid! Are you alright!?" Stella asked, wishing she were there.
Sid offered a thumbs up, smiling through the pain, "Yeah, I'm good..." She stood herself up, still feeling hurt. "Sorry I screwed up."
"Well, thanks for trying," Stella said. "You can be weird sometimes, but you're a good friend to have."
"Any time Stella," Sid said, sitting back down. "Anything else you want to talk about?"
"A few things, yeah," Stella said, smirking at Sid. "Maybe a show too."
"I won't turn it down," Sid said. "Seriously, tell me everything on your mind."
Near the Royal Woods Museum, Lucy is seen walking with her group of friends, on their way to make plans for Halloween night.
"The day of the spirits is upon us," Haiku said. "Lucy, will you have the preparations?"
"It's taking a while, but I think I have almost everything we need," Lucy said.
"We still have time," Haiku said. "For now, let us hurry before the museum closes. I am curious about this Ancient Artifact."
"Yes, the ancient Relic of the Goblin King," Lucy said. "I've heard stories that it has amazing powers that awaken only on Halloween night."
"Sounds very delightful," Haiku said. "Let's hurry."
As they got closer to the museum, an alarm went off, one of the boys speaking up in concern, "What is happening!?"
Emerging from the museum was a mysterious figure who hopped into a car as security guards gave chase.
"Stop her! She stole the Goblin's Relic!" the guard said.
"Ha! You'll never stop the Jack'O Lantern!" the woman said, speeding away. "WHOOO! I'm unstoppable!"
"Drat! We need to find the cops," the guard said as they ran to get assistance.
"The artifact got stolen!?" a distraught Haiku asked.
The rest of the group mumbled in annoyance, to which Lucy decided to speak up. "I know this is bad but don't worry. Once Spider-Man finds out about this, he'll catch the crook and restore order."
"Of course! Spider-Man!" a taller girl said.
"We can rely on him!" a boy said.
"We should try to find him ourselves, let him know what happened," Haiku said.
"Good idea, come on," Lucy said, leading her friends away.
At the Rosato estate, Jordan was putting the final touches on her costume, the girl waving her hips a bit. "I can't wait to show Linky this. He's going to love it." She rubbed her hips. "Hope this doesn't make me look fat or anything, though Linky does seem to like a bit of roundness when it comes to butts." She began to blush a bit, "Especially after the other day."
Just then she heard the door open, a woman running by her. "Hi Jordan! Bye Jordan!"
"Brooke?" Jordan asked. "What's my dad's intern doing in Royal Woods?" She shrugged it off, "Not my problem."
Brooke ran downstairs to look for her boss, Mr. Rosato! Are you here!?" She looked around more. "Sir! Where are you!? I got something you wanted!"
"I'm here, Brooke!" Johnathan said, the man sinisterly walking over while holding a now empty syringe. "Do you have the artifact?"
"Sure do," Brooke said. "And it's not Brooke, it's Jack'O Lantern!"
"Yeah, yeah, just give me the damn thing," Johnathan said, his eyes slowly turning yellow as he eyed the artifact. "Perfect, this is key to my plans of conquest. You have everything ready, don't you?"
"Sure do, on Halloween night, we make the world think the Goblin King has been resurrected," Brooke said. "Then you show off your 'powers', that being that alien tech you got from those Enforcer guys that they found in New York after The Avengers beat up those aliens. After that, the town falls to you. First Royal Woods, then The World!"
"Didn't need to explain the whole plan, but that's fine,' Johnathan said.
"Oh, and don't forget that you promised to pay off my student loans," Brooke said. "Oh, and that this unpaid internship will now be a paid internship."
"You'll get your finances soon enough, just make sure everything's ready," Johnathan said. "Now, since it's almost Halloween, I must ask, do you have my costume?"
"Sure do, hope you like purple," Brooke said.
"Ha, excellent," Johnathan said. "With this power, not even The Avengers can stop me. But I do promise to pay a visit to a certain spider, and use him to send a message. The Green Goblin has finally arrived!"
Danger approached Lincoln as one of his most dangerous tasks was ahead.