The plane ride from Royal Woods to New York was anything but simple. The Loud Kids were not the quietest bunch.
The flight attendants had barely finished their safety demonstration before things fully unraveled.
Lola and Lana were fighting over who got to sit near the window.
"WINDOW SEAT IS MINE," Lola snapped.
"No it ain't!" Lana shot back, already halfway climbing over her. "I called it before we even got on the plane!"
"You called dibs yesterday, that doesn't count!" Lola shouted.
"It absolutely counts!" Lana insisted.
The plane hadn't even reached cruising altitude yet, and Rita was already rubbing her temples.
"Girls," Rita said, getting their attention, "One of you can have the window now and the other can have it on the way back."
Both twins froze and thought it over.
"…Fine," They said at the same time, then immediately glared at each other
Cricket chuckled to herself, "I love these girls, they're so funny."
.Meanwhile Lynn and Lucy were sharing a TV and were arguing over what to watch.
"I wanna watch sports highlights," Lynn said, gripping one earbud.
Lucy calmly pulled the other. "I wish to observe a documentary about haunted lighthouses."
"That's BORING!" Lynn shouted.
"So is watching grown adults chase a ball," Lucy sassed.
Their tablet flickered between channels like it was having an existential crisis.
Lincoln just sat in silence with Stella right next to him. She wasn't sure what to say. She knew he had a lot on his mind, especially after everything that has happened recently.
"So, Lincoln..." Stella said, trying to break the ice. "Where do you want to go first after we land?"
"I thought about going to Central Park, I hear you can ride bikes," Lincoln said.
"That sounds fun," Stella said. "It'd be nice to go on a leisurely bike ride. Anything else?"
"I think you can ride carriages around too, pulled by horses," Lincoln said. "I'm not too sure if I want to do that though, feels kind of old timey."
"Might be worth looking into though," Stella said. "But how about a museum? I hear that The Museum of Natural History is one of the most popular museums in the world."
"We can do that," Lincoln said.
"Maybe we can even try visiting the New York Hall of Science," Stella said. "Though, when I looked it up, it was actually in Queens, and we're going to Manhattan."
"Mom and Dad said that they're willing to explore outside of Manhattan," Lincoln said. "Lynn wants to go to The Bronx to catch a game at Yankee Stadium. Honestly I wouldn't mind going either. Seeing the world famous Yankee as their home turf sounds neat."
"Well that does sound nice, but I'd like to see The Mets," Stella said.
"Really? Lynn says they suck," Lincoln said.
"I know their reputation, but that's why I want to go," Stella said. "I like the idea of supporting the underdog."
"Yeah, I suppose all underdogs deserve someone to appreciate them," Lincoln said.
"Because it inspires them to do better," Stella pointed out.
"Waiter!" Lynn Jr called. "Some nuts please!"
"Junior, inside voice voice!" Lynn Sr scolded. "And please wait for the flight attendant!"
Nearby Sam was using a plastic fork and knife as makeshift drums while banging on the seat in front of her.
"I still can't believe I'm actually on my way to New York!" Sam said. "Freaking New York! Home of Madison Square Garden!"
"All the greats have performed there, and one day it'll be our turn," Luna said.
"We also gotta pass by Radio City," Sam said. "We'll bring Luan and Benny."
"What about us?" Luan asked from nearby.
"You're coming with Luna and me to Radio City," Sam said, then chuckled to herself. "Heh...that rhymed. I am so good with music."
"That sounds like a fun plan," Luan said. "We'll get a chance to see the Rockettes."
"The Rockettes..." Benny gushed. "They're so pretty."
Luan raised her eyebrow at her boyfriend, "Not prettier than me, right?"
Benny's eyes widened as he nervously chuckled. "R-Right, of course! It's no question!"
Luan still felt suspicious but shrugged it off in the end. "They are talented."
"Hey, Benny!" Lola called in her flirty voice. "I'm a pretty good dancer! So I can give you a private show if you'd like!"
"Ha, she's so horny for Benny," Sam said.
"Sam!" Luna scolded, her face now red as a tomato.
"Just a joke, babe," Sam said. "Look, let's just focus on New York. We get there, hit the hotel for a bit and then hit the streets. We'll play one of our songs!"
"Would that work?" Luna asked. "I feel like if we wanna catch people's attention, we should play something popular first."
"Hey, our songs are neat!" Sam said. "We can play that Spider-Man song!"
"Is he even popular in New York?" Luna asked. "They already have The Avengers."
"Point taken," Sam said. "Okay, we'll open with a couple of popular ones, then transition into our own stuff."
"Sweet, now we just gotta think of some," Luna said.
Sam turned to Benny, "Any idea Ben?"
"I know a good one!" Benny said. "That cool song from Ronnie Mathews! I Saw Your Face and Wow!"
Sam shot a bemused glare at Benny for his suggestion, "That's last time I take advice from you on music."
"Hey!" Benny shouted in annoyance.
"How about that band dad likes?" Luan asked. "The Beets! Pick a song from them!"
"Well, I do like 'I Need Mo' Allowance', but that seems like an old timey song," Luna said.
"New York's all about old timey music," Luan said. "Their most popular songs came out like sixty years ago and are still popular."
"I know one!" Len chimed in. "Play a Big Time Rush song!"
"Big Time Rush is a pop group, not a rock group," Luna said.
"To be fair, they have Paralyze," Sam pointed out. "They sang that song with that girl Lucy Stone."
"Oh yeah, didn't one of those guys date her or something?" Luna asked.
"Yeah but he broke up with her for some actress," Sam said. "She's pretty but I still say he should have stayed with Lucy."
"No way, Jo's cute!" Leni said.
"We're missing the point here," Luna said. "Let's just stick with The Beets."
"Sounds good, but instead of 'I Need Mo' Allowance', how about 'Killer Tofu' instead?" Sam asked.
"Sure, why not?" Luna said.
"I still say that Ronnie Matthews song would be great," Benny said.
"Sure, we'll just grab a CD and Lip Sync like he does," Sam said.
"H-hey! That was never proven!" Benny said.
"Have you heard how the guy talks? No way that's his actual singing voice," Sam said.
"Ease up on Penny, Sam," Luan said. "Let the guy like his favorite artists. We're not ones to judge."
"Alright, fine by me," Sam said. "Right now, I'm just gonna kick back and relax."
Then the plane shook, and it shook hard.
The cabin lights flickered as several people gasped.
"What in the world?!" Benny asked.
"Oh no..." Lola said in worry. "Are we gonna die!?"
"We are not," Lisa said calmly, barely looking up from her tablet. "This is standard atmospheric turbulence."
The plane jolted again. Now it was Sam's turn to be scared as she gripped Luna's arm. "Standard or not, this is freaking me out!"
"Ladies and gentlemen," The pilot's voice crackled over the intercom, "We're experiencing a bit of turbulence. Please remain seated with your seatbelts fastened."
Lincoln's hands clenched the armrests. Even if his senses weren't going off, he felt some fear of danger afoot.
Stella noticed immediately, then gently placed her hand over his.
"It's okay," Stella said. "Just turbulence. Nothing the pilots can't handle."
"…Yeah," Lincoln said as he tried to keep himself composed.
Another bump hit, resulting in Luan's props being rattled. "My rubber chicken!"
Lucy smiled faintly. "Ah. Chaos."
"Does the plane need to be fixed?" Lana wondered.
After a few tense minutes, the shaking eased. This relieved everyone of their worry.
Lola in particular slumped into her seat. "…I regret everything I've ever said."
Lincoln slowly released his grip. Stella didn't pull her hand away right away, as she wanted to be sure Lincoln was okay.
"…Thanks," Lincoln said quietly.
"Of course," Stella said.
Moments later, Clyde woke up. "Uh, did I miss something?"
The rest of the flight passed in loud conversations, music debates, and Luan trying to stop Lola from flirting with Benny again.
Eventually, the captain's voice returned.
"We'll be landing in New York City shortly."
Cheers erupted throughout the cabin.
Lincoln leaned back in his seat, looking out the window as the city came into view.
Tall buildings. Endless streets. A place where heroes were made and tested.
Stella glanced at him, eyes bright with excitement. "New York. We actually made it."
Lincoln managed a smile as he looked down in excitement. "Yeah, this is gonna be amazing."
And as the plane descended, he couldn't shake the feeling that this city was about to change everything.
It took about an hour and a half, but the Louds had finally arrived at New York City with their friends.
The moment the Louds stepped out of La Guardia airport, New York hit them like a freight train. From the honking to the shouting, stream from the grates.
"Geez, this place doesn't feel that different from home," Lynn Jr said. "Heh, that's exciting."
"Wait, is this Manhattan?" Lana asked as she looked around. "Where are the skyscrapers!?"
"We're not in Manhattan just yet, we're in Queens," Lynn Sr said. "But Manhattan isn't too far from here, we just need to take a taxi."
"Lynn, there's so many of us," Rita said.
"I know, which means we'll need to split into groups," Lynn Sr said. "Rita, Leni, Luan and Luna are in charge. "Now let's hurry!"
The group split across multiple taxis and rideshares, luggage crammed into trunks at questionable angles.
The taxis then dashed through traffic, bypassing so many traffic laws in the process.
Rita in particular was terrified as she rode with her daughters and friends. Lynn enjoyed it however, Lisa looked sick, Margo looked terrified and Darcy was having fun.
"ARE YOU SURE THIS IS SAFE?" Rita shouted over the noise.
The driver grinned at Rita in the rearview mirror. "First time in New York?"
"Yes!" everyone answered.
"Ha, that explains it," The Driver said.
It didn't take long for the taxis to arrive in New York City and in front of the hotel itself.
The Presidential Hotel loomed tall and elegant, all polished glass and brass doors that reflected the city's chaos like a painting.
"So this is the place, huh?" Lana asked.
"It looks so big," Leni said.
"It all does..." Lynn Jr said as she looked around.
The skyscrapers were a masterpiece in the eyes of The Loud Family. Buildings stretching as far as the eye could see.
Lincoln could only wonder what it would be like to swing through this place. It looked like a personal jungle gym designed only for him.
"I know this looks nice everyone, but we do need to get checked in," Rita said.
"Wait, we still need to wait for Lori," Lynn Sr said. "I hope she gets here soon."
Suddenly they heard some honking from a food car. After making a mad dash through the street, the car stopped in front of the hotel, taking the Loud Family by surprise.
Lori was quick to leap out and then greeted her Family and the friends that came along. "I'm here!"
"Lori!" Lynn Sr rushed to hug his oldest child. "You made it! Now our family is whole once again!"
"Sup Louds!?" Bobby greeted. "Good to see ya."
"Yo Lincoln" Ronnie Anne rushed over to fist bump her friend. "Ready for two weeks of awesome!?"
"You bet," Lincoln said.
"Vamos!" Rosa called as she pulled out the luggage. "We'll all check in now!"
"Of course, come on," Rita said as she gestured everyone inside.
The Louds and their friends poured into the lobby in a wave of suitcases, backpacks, instruments, props, and unfiltered energy.
They arrived in front of a desk clerk, who looked weirded out by the amount of people present.
"…Welcome," she said carefully. "How many rooms?"
After details were done, keys were handed out. and room assignments were shouted.
"Okay," Rita said, clapping her hands. "Everyone gets one hour to drop off bags and freshen up. Then we meet back here to plan sightseeing."
"One hour?" Lynn Jr. scoffed. "That's enough time to see, like, three landmarks!"
"No running off," Lynn Sr. warned. "This city eats tourists."
"Come on, it can't be that bad," Luna said.
"Better safe than sorry," Benny said. "Come on, let's hurry."
Everyone had rushed upstairs, overcrowding the elevator in the process. It took multiple trips but they managed to pull it off.
"Alright, now that we've gotten everything in the hotel, what does everyone want to do now?" Rita asked.
"Times Square!" Leni said.
"Central Park!" Stella added while glancing at Lincoln.
"Yankee Stadium!" Lynn Jr shouted.
"Museums!" Lisa said.
"Radio City!" Lola said.
"Magic shop crawl," Benny quietly suggested.
"Sleep," Lori muttered.
"Sleep!?" Bobby asked in disbelief. "Come on babe, we're in New York. Sleep at night."
"Or never, this is the City that Never Sleeps after all," Lynn Jr said.
"Alright, we'll do our own thing then," Rita said. "Now once we split into groups-"
"FREEDOM!" Lynn Jr shouted as she and the others just ran out of the hotel, leaving Rita dumbfounded by what happened.
"H-Hey! Don't just wander out there by yourselves!" Rita called as she got the attention of Lynn, Rosa, Hector, Carlos and Frieda. "Come on!"
"Uh, right!" Lynn Sr said as he joined his wife in trying to find the kids before they got into trouble.
Meanwhile the McBrides and Changs were also checking in, then realized they were alone.
"Uh...where did everyone go?" Stanley asked.
Lincoln along with Stella and Clyde had made it to their destination. Central Park. The noise of the city faded the moment they stepped inside. Trees stretched overhead. Joggers passed by. A street performer played violin near a fountain.
The statues and gardens were a treat as well. The park was so massive it made their own park back in Royal Woods look like a typical backyard in comparison.
"…I cannot believe this is real. This is like a movie park," Clyde said.
Lincoln smiled, already more relaxed than he'd been all day. "Yeah. It's kinda nice having a place where everything doesn't feel like it's moving a mile a minute."
Stella looked around, "Where are Ronnie Anne and Sid? I thought they were right behind us?"
"I'm not sure," Lincoln said as he looked around. "I hope they didn't get sidetracked."
Meanwhile just south of their location, Sid was walking around while barely paying any mind to her surroundings.
"This place is so cool!" Sid said as she absent-mindedly walked toward an open sewer.
"Sid!" Ronnie Anne maneuvered her out of the way. "Sid! Come on! You gotta pay attention!"
Sid noticed the sewer before nervously chuckling, "Sorry about that. But seriously, this place is amazing! Have you ever seen a city like this!?"
"Sid, we LIVE in a city like this!" Ronnie Anne pointed out.
"Pfft, this place makes home look like a toy set," Sid said, then noticed a hot dog cart. "HOT DOGS!"
As Sid made a dash for it, Ronnie Anne quickly followed. "Sid! Wait up!"
Back in Central park, Stella along with Lincoln and Clyde rented some bikes. They began riding along the side
As Clyde rode his bike, he felt it starting to wobble, which worried the boy. "Uh...I think my bike is malfunctioning!?"
Lincoln grabbed the back of his seat, steadying him. "Just pedal. Don't think."
"Right, just pedal..." Clyde said as he tried again. "I wonder how many people have been on this bike before me?"
"Be the best of them," Lincoln said as he pedaled faster. "Come on."
Stella laughed as she rode ahead, hair blowing in the wind. "Race you to the bridge!"
"Race? Big mistake," Lincoln said in a teasing tone as he pedaled faster.
Clyde kept looking behind, the boy seemingly worried about something. "I really think we should be waiting for Ronnie Anne and Stella."
"They'll catch up," Lincoln insisted as he pedaled. "Come on! Hurry!"
"I'm coming!" Clyde said as he pedaled faster.
Lincoln pedaled hard, getting closer to Stella in the process. He was trying not to use his abilities, and just let himself feel like a normal kid for a brief moment.
Eventually he made it to the bridge, passing Stella just at the last moment, "Ha! Victory is mine."
"You got lucky," Stella teased. "It won't go down this way next time."
The two took a moment to sit on the grass and take in the sights ahead of them.
"Thanks for bringing me here," Stella said.
"No problem," Lincoln said.
Clyde finally arrived and sat with the two as he wiped sweat from his forehead. "I almost died. Totally worth it."
"So...what now?" Stella asked.
"Let's give Sid and Ronnie Anne time to catch up," Lincoln said. "We'll figure it out from there."
"That sounds good to me," Stella said as she glanced ahead, still enjoying the view.
Meanwhile at Radio City Music Hall, the trio of Luan, Benny and Lola had stopped in front to gawk at the building.
The lights of Radio City Music Hall glowed like something out of a dream, with all three of them already imagining their future.
"Wow, just looking at this makes me feel like a big star!" Lola said as she began twirling in excitement. "Just wait until I become part of this all I can't wait to wow everyone with my dance moves as I become a Rockette! The most beautiful one of all!"
Lola tried dancing the can-can to mimic the famous Radio City Dancers, though doing so out in public in a crowded street may not have been the wisest idea.
"You're dancing in the middle of the sidewalk," Luan said, gently pulling Lola aside before she knocked into someone. "Save the dramatics for the stage."
"I think we can go in," Benny said. "Come on, let's take a quick look around."
"Shouldn't we wait for Sam and Luna?" Luan asked.
"I think they got sidetracked," Benny said. "They can come by later. Let's go."
Luan shrugged it off and went inside with Lola. It was there that everyone's eyes sparkled, especially once they saw the stage.
"The history here… legends performed on this stage," Luan said.
Benny nodded enthusiastically. "And the acoustics! You could whisper and still sound amazing."
Lola struck a pose once more. "I could totally dance here."
"Being one of the Radio City Rockettes requires a lot of practice," Luan said.
"You say that like I can't handle it," Lola said. "It's the Ultimate Test of my pageant abilities. I WILL be one of the greatest!"
"I'm sure you will, Lola," Benny said, this sparking joy in Lola's heart. "Come on."
They toured the hall, staring up at the ceiling, the lights, the sheer scale of it all. For Luan, it wasn't about comedy for once. It was inspiration.
"…Someday," she said quietly. "I can perform here too."
"For comedy?" Lola asked.
"No silly, for theater," Luan said. "Benny and I will rock the crowd."
"I'd love to be part of their Christmas show," Benny said. "That reminds me, we should get tickets for that."
"We'd need to ask my parents first, but I think they'll agree to whoever wants to see it," Luan said. "Now come on, I think there's a lounge."
The three went downstairs to explore more of the building.
Meanwhile Luna, Sam and Lynn were seen walking along Madison Avenue. The moment they reached Madison Square Garden however, Luna stopped walking and gawked.
"…Whoa." Luna couldn't believe it. "So much better than the internet said it would be."
Sam grinned at her reaction. "Yeah. That's how it usually is."
Lynn cracked her knuckles in satisfaction. "So THIS is where champions play."
"We gotta see a Knicks Game!" Margo said. "I think they're playing soon!"
"Oh well will," Lynn said.
Luna looked on in amazement even more, imagining all the concerts that were performed here. "All the greats. Bands, athletes… history."
Sam nudged her shoulder. "And one day? You."
Luna smiled, a little embarrassed by the praise. "…Maybe."
"I don't even care what sport's on right now. Just being here rules," Lynn said. "It's Hockey Season too! Maybe the Rangers are playing!?"
"Don't they have Pro Wrestling here too?" Sam asked. "I bet you can catch a show."
"Or be part of one," Margo said.
Lynn shook her head, "I'm not sure if I want to get back in the ring. Tempting as it would be. But I'd definitely watch a show."
"Let's see what else there is," Luna said as she led the girls around.
They wandered the perimeter, peeking inside when they could, soaking it all in. Sam leaned against the railing, watching Luna look at the building like it was calling to her.
"You're thinking about it, aren't you?" Sam said.
"…Yeah," Luna admitted. "I'm rocking out here someday."
"We all are," Sam said. "The Moon Goats will dominate Madison Square Garden!"
"And so will I," Lynn boasted. "One way or another."
Elsewhere in the city, the marble lions stood guard as Lisa Loud stepped onto the steps of the New York Public Library.
"…Magnificent," Lisa said as she adjusted her glasses.
Darcy struggled to keep up as Lisa practically vibrated with excitement. "Isn't this just some library?"
Lisa turned to her sharply. "Darcy, this is one of the greatest repositories of human knowledge on the planet."
"Uh-huh..." Darcy said. "Still, is it really that great?"
"Let's go see for ourselves!" Lisa said as she ran up the stairs.
"Wait! Don't leave me behind!" Darcy said as she also ran up.
Inside, the grand reading room opened before them. Long tables, towering shelves, sunlight filtering through tall windows.
Lisa stopped walking entirely as she took in the amazing sight. "…I need a moment."
"You okay?" Darcy asked.
Lisa nodded slowly. "I am experiencing intellectual joy. The knowledge I can gain from here is amazing even to me."
"Wow, I guess you really like this place," Darcy said as she looked around. "I still don't see..."
Lisa immediately claimed a seat, books stacking up with alarming speed.
"Ancient engineering texts. Early chemistry journals. Astrophysics abstracts, oh! And Nikola Tesla correspondence!" Lisa shouted. "I'm in Heaven!"
She was shushed by some people, to which Lisa sheepishly apologized.
"…Are we allowed to touch all this?" Darcy asked.
"Of course, this is a library, it's public knowledge to us all," Lisa said.
"...Do they have books with pictures?" Darcy asked.
"I don't see why they wouldn't," Lisa said. "Come on, I will assist in finding one for you."
Meanwhile Leni and Fiona had just arrived in Time's Square. The lights hit both girls like a fashion flashbang. Times Square exploded with color, motion, and towering screens.
"…It's like a mall made of stars," Leni said.
Giant billboards flickered overhead, models strutting, fabrics flowing, brands flashing. Leni slowly turned in a circle as so many things caught her eye.
"Look at that dress! LOOK at that jacket!" Leni gestured to one store in particular. "Fiona, the SHOES! They're so amazing!"
Fiona began chuckling to herself. "I knew this place would destroy you."
Leni pressed her face close to a storefront window. "That color palette… the layering… the boldness!" She glanced up at the massive screens to all the modeled clothing on display. "…Do you think they could change outfits that fast in real life?"
"In New York? Probably," Fiona said.
Leni clasped her hands to her chest. "I feel so inspired."
"Try not to get too carried away," Fiona said as she took her phone out to take pictures. "Then again, it would be funny showing this to Miguel."
Later on at The Empire State Building, Lori and Bobby were seen admiring the building together.
Bobby adjusted his jacket as he and Lori stood beneath the towering height of the city's proudest landmark.
"Wow," Bobby said as he looked up. "It's even bigger in person."
"Right? I've seen it in pictures my whole life," Lori said. "But the pictures don't do it justice."
"Let's go inside," Bobby said.
"Can we?" Lori asked.
"I did research, apparently we can tour the building," Bobby said. "Come on."
The two went inside and took in the sights immediately. So much history in one place, it was mind blowing. They took an elevator up to see more of the building. The excitement had their hearts pounding.
At the observation deck, the city spread out endlessly below them. Lori leaned against the railing, eyes wide. "…This is insane."
"It is..." Bobby glanced happily at his girlfriend. "You look really happy."
"Yeah, I am," Lori responded. The wind then tugged at her hair as the girl waved it back. "It's nice to just forget about the family Chaos for a little bit."
"Same," Bobby said.
They stood together quietly, New York stretching beneath their feet as it stretched out vast, bright, and full of possibilities.
Back in Central Park, Lincoln along with Clyde and Stella were already on the move, with Lincoln himself being quick to realize something.
"I just realized, we left without our parents," Lincoln said. "You think they'll be mad?"
"Probably," Stella said. "But we weren't the only ones who left."
"My dads aren't going to be happy, but they're softies, so I'm not too worried," Clyde said.
"Yo! Lincoln!" Came Ronnie Anne's voice as she rushed over with Sid.
"Hey Ronnie, finally make it?" Lincoln asked.
"Yeah, Sid kept getting distracted by everything," Ronnie said. "Good thing I can handle navigating through a city."
"This park is big too!" Sid said as she looked around. "Man, everything is bigger in New York!"
"Technically, the proper term is 'Everything is Bigger in Texas'," Clyde said.
"Huh? This isn't Texas," Sid said. "Do you need new glasses or something?"
Clyde raised his eyebrow, "Uh, no, I'm just stating a trivia fact."
"Yeah it is trivial," Sid said after mishearing then walked off in annoyance. "Talking about Texas in New York."
Clyde glanced in disbelief, then shook it off. "Anyway...what else should we do?"
"There's a zoo here, let's go check it out," Stella said.
"Oooh, I wonder if it's like my mom's zoo?" Sid wondered as she joined her friends.
As they walked along the park, one thing caught Lincoln's eye. The buildings nearby were under construction. For so many to have all these construction workers was a curious sight for the boy.
"Looks like they're making some new buildings," Sid said. "Cool."
"I don't think they're making them, it looks more like a repair job," Stella said.
"Repair? Did something get damaged?" Clyde asked.
"It must have been from that alien invasion," Lincoln gestured his friends toward the edge of the park. "Let's get a closer look."
The five of them moved toward the edge of Central Park, weaving past joggers and street performers until the greenery thinned and the city pressed in close.
Up ahead, scaffolding climbed the sides of several buildings. Orange safety netting fluttered in the breeze. Construction crews worked high above, sparks flashing where metal beams were being reinforced.
"Whoa… that's definitely a lot of repair work," Sid said.
"It's been about a year since the invasion," Lincoln said. "Some damage takes a long time to fix."
"Those Chitauri," Clyde said. "Man, if only Zach were here to see this."
"I should take some pictures," Lincoln said as he pulled out his phone.
One of the nearby buildings still had visible scarring which darkened stone along the upper floors, sections of façade clearly replaced with newer material. Another had entire windows boarded up, waiting to be restored.
Stella stepped closer to the barricade, reading a small posted sign.
"'Structural repairs ongoing following extraterrestrial attack.'" She exhaled quietly. "That sounds so unreal."
"It kinda is," Ronnie Anne muttered. "Aliens attacking your city?"
"Hey, at least The Avengers sent them packing," Sid said, though despite her attempt to sound confident, even she found this situation disturbing.
In the distance, beyond the skyline, the gleaming tower of Stark Tower rose above everything else. Even from here, it dominated the horizon.
Clyde followed Lincoln's gaze. "That's where it started, right?"
"Yeah," Lincoln said softly.
He'd watched the footage more times than he could count. Portals in the sky. Alien crafts flying between skyscrapers. Explosions. Civilians running for cover.
Now he was standing where some of it happened. It felt different in person.
A construction worker carried debris past them, chunks of twisted metal that didn't look entirely human-made.
Sid's eyes widened in disbelief. "Is that…?"
"Probably leftovers," Stella said gently. "Or parts of buildings that got wrecked."
"I heard that some families had to move out of their homes after the invasion," Ronnie Anne said. "Their apartments got hit really badly."
Clyde's voice dropped. "Can you imagine? Just… your home gone in one day?"
"It's scary to imagine," Lincoln said. The sight of the city was a strong reminder of why he continued to fight hard in Royal Woods.
"Even with The Avengers around, that's still no guarantee for safety," Stella said. "Of course, it's better than no heroes at all. At least there was hope."
Sirens wailed faintly somewhere in the distance, a normal city sound. But for a moment, it felt like an echo from that day.
Sid leaned on the barricade, looking up at the repaired skyline. "I always thought New York was invincible. Like nothing could knock it down."
"Guess even big cities can get hurt," Ronnie Anne said.
"At least they're rebuilding, thanks to..." Stella glanced at the company involved with this. "Damage Control. Huh, clever name for a clean up company."
They all watched as workers hoisted new steel beams into place. Lincoln and Clyde admired the construction, especially the tools used and the vehicles out and about.
"Man, how cool would it be to drive something like that?" Lincoln said.
"It'd be awesome," Clyde said.
"Huh, boys really like construction, huh?" Sid asked.
"Yeah, I've always wondered why?" Ronnie Anne said. "What is it about construction tools that makes them so invested?"
"Well working hard like this is the epitome of masculinity," Stella pointed out. "I think Lincoln and Clyde just feel stronger looking at these machines."
Ronnie Anne glanced at the machines once more, "I can see it."
"It is pretty badass," Sid said. "Nothing like Blue Collar work, that is the personification of a True American."
"Ha, yeah," Ronnie Anne said. "So, about that zoo?"
"Let's hurry," Stella said as she and the others ran toward the center of the park.
Meanwhile Lynn Sr and Rita were frantically searching through New York City for any sign of their kids. They had agreed to split up with the other parents to make the search go a lot faster. At the moment, the Loud Parents were in Time's Square.
Rita clutched her phone in one hand and a folded city map in the other, spinning slowly in place as people streamed around her like rushing water.
"…Okay, according to this, we are either three blocks from Central Park or standing directly on top of a subway line," Rita said.
Lynn Sr. squinted at a street sign. "Rita… why does every street have a number and a name?"
"Because it seems like New York hates clarity," Rita commented.
"Ooooh, I knew this place would be a pain to navigate through," Lynn Sr said. "They don't call it a Concrete Jungle for no reason."
Rita got a text message from one of the parents, "It's Becca!"
Becca: Any sign of the kids?"
Rita: Not quite yet.
Stanley: I just got a message from Sid. Apparently she's at Central Park with Ronnie Anne, Lincoln and Clyde.
Harold: That would explain why I just got this text message from Clyde that has a picture of a squirrel.
Maria: I wish Ronnie Anne wouldn't do this, last time she had us so worried when she was navigating Great Lakes. At least that place has a low crime rate.
Carlos: I don't even want to think about that!
Maria: By the way Carlos, your children are still at the hotel, right?
Carlos: Mami says they are, with Lily too.
Stanley: What about Adelaide? Isn't she there?
Howard: I don't mean to tell you how to parent, but shouldn't know know where your own daughter is?
Rita: She might be with Lana. We'll keep looking.
Lynn Sr sighed in worry, "We're off to such a bad start. What makes this even more of a doozy is that some of the kids we lost aren't even ours!"
"We'll find them, don't worry," Rita reassured.
Suddenly a man in a silver-painted suit suddenly stepped directly in front of the Loud Parents and froze in a dramatic pose.
"Uh...what is this?" Rita asked.
"Must be a street performer," Lynn Sr said.
The performer slowly turned his head. "Astute observation."
"This is nice, but we're looking for our kids, now let's go Lynn," Rita said as she pulled her husband away.
They made it half a block before a group of dancers surrounded them, music blaring from a speaker.
"JOIN US!" one shouted.
"We're busy here!" Rita said. Suddenly the group moved in closer, this startling the mother of eleven. "…Is this a flash mob or a mugging?"
They danced closer, to which Lynn Sr. panicked and started clapping off-beat. "The music...it's hypnotic!"
"Lynn! Now's not the time!" Rita scolded as the dancers cheered louder.
"I can't help it hon!" Lynn Sr said as she started doing disco moves.
Meanwhile Leni and Fiona were seen observing from nearby, unaware at first that the former's parents were presently in the crowd.
It wasn't long before Rita and Lynn Sr. stumbled into view while still being followed by a magician pulling scarves out of his sleeve.
"Wow, looks like mom and dad are enjoying life in Time's Square," Leni said.
"…Leni, I think they're being harassed," Fiona said.
Rita took note of her second oldest child, "I see Leni!"
Lynn Sr. waved frantically. "LENI! HELP! THIS MAN WON'T STOP MAKING PIGEONS APPEAR!"
The magician bowed as he did more tricks. "Ta-da."
Leni giggled. "Heehee! Dad's really committing to the bit!"
Fiona squinted. "…Why does your dad look like he's calling 911 with his eyes?"
Lynn Sr sighed in despair. "I miss Royal Woods. The weirdest thing there is raccoons."
Right on cue, a break-dancer slid between them, spinning on his head.
Rita stepped over him without breaking stride. "…I am no longer surprised by anything." She walked over to her daughter. "Leni, I'm so glad you're okay."
"Of course, Fiona and I were out shopping!" Leni said. "New York has so many amazing stores! It's like an all you can eat buffet, except with buying things!"
"Well we're glad you're having fun but running off like that was not okay," Rita said. "You really had us worried."
"Sorry about that, mom," Leni said.
"Yeah, we're sorry Mrs. Loud," Fiona said.
"Well, so long as you're both okay, that's all we care about," Lynn Sr said.
"We'll let everyone know," Rita said. "For now, I think you should head back to the hotel."
"That's fine, I got plenty," Leni said as she showed off her bags. "I can't wait to try it all on!"
"Same here, let's bounce," Fiona said as she and Leni left.
Rita gestured Lynn Sr along, "Come on, we still have plenty more kids to find."
Meanwhile Lucy and Haiku were walking along with Lana, Adelaide and Cricket.
"Thanks for letting me hang around you," Cricket said. "I can't believe I got separated from Lola like that."
"She just got excited, we'll find her soon," Lana said. "There's a good chance she's at Radio City."
"I always wondered they call it that," Adelaide said. "Is it a city made out of radios?"
"That's a good question," Lana said, then called to her sister. "Lucy! How long before we're at Radio City!?"
"Who said anything about Radio City?" Lucy asked. "Haiku and I are looking for some local cemeteries."
Cricket looked visibly uncomfortable, "Uh...I really don't want to go to places like that."
"Don't worry, we won't," Lana said reassured. She looked down a road. "Check it out, I see the harbor!"
"Let's go see the boats!" Adelaide said.
"Better than Lucy's idea," Cricket said.
"Catch you later, Luce!" Lana said as she ran off with her friends.
Haiku glanced back at the three, "Should we leave them alone?"
"Lana walks around Royal Woods by herself just fine, and Adelaide is from a different city where she casually explores that place too," Lucy said. "They'll be fine."
Lana along with Cricket and Adelaide walked excitedly along The Harbor where they spotted several large boats.
One such was a boat that supported planes on top of the deck.
"That's one large ship," Adelaide said.
"I think I heard of this from Pop-Pop," Lana said. "It's called The Intrepid. It would sail out to sea and pilots would fly their planes into enemy territory. Pop-Pop might have been on here when he was in the military."
"That's so cool!" Adelaide said.
"Such a nice looking boat," Cricket said, then glanced nearby. "I see a submarine too!"
"Man, New York is so cool!" Lana said.
Later, Lynn Sr and Rita had gone to Central Park where they were told Lincoln was with some friends.
"Come on, they should be nearby," Rita said.
The afternoon sun filtered through the trees of Central Park Zoo as Lincoln, Clyde, Stella, Ronnie Anne, and Sid stood pressed against the glass of the sea lion exhibit.
"Okay, that one definitely winked at me," Sid declared confidently.
"That's because you're standing in front of the fish bucket," Ronnie Anne replied.
Clyde adjusted his glasses. "Technically, sea lions respond to movement and sound stimuli-"
"It winked again!" Sid said, paying no mind to Clyde as the boy gave up.
Stella smiled softly at the aquatic animals. "They're really cute."
"Athletic too," Lincoln said. "So, where do you all wanna go-?"
"Lincoln Loud!" Came Rita's voice.
The kids turned to see Rita marching toward them alongside Lynn Sr, the two slightly disheveled, mildly winded, and still holding a crumpled tourist map.
Behind them trailed that same street magician, to which Rita told him off. "Will you leave already!?"
The Magician dejectedly left as Lynn Sr took a breath of relief.
Rita turned her attention toward her son and his friends, "About time we found you."
Lynn Sr pointed dramatically. "We have walked twelve blocks, been circled by dancers, nearly recruited into a Broadway show, and I'm pretty sure I accidentally tipped a statue!"
"Wow, New York really gets people like that, huh?" Ronnie Anne said.
Clyde straightened up. "Hi, Mr. and Mrs. Loud. We were perfectly safe. My dads have been tracking me via location share."
Sid waved cheerfully. "Hi, Lincoln's parents! This zoo is awesome! I think one of the penguins likes me!"
"Well, I'm happy to hear that, I guess?" Lynn Sr said in confusion.
"Lincoln, you left without telling us," Rita said. "You and your sisters."
Lincoln awkwardly rubbed the back of his neck. "We were… uh… exploring responsibly?"
Stella stepped in gently. "We stayed together the whole time."
"And didn't climb anything," Ronnie Anne added.
"…Much," Sid muttered.
"I can't say I'm happy, but this was an exciting day, so I will let you off with a warning." Rita then looked up at the sun and saw that it was beginning to set. " "It's getting late. Time to head back to the hotel."
"Already?" Lincoln asked.
"Yes, already," Lynn Sr said firmly. "Your sisters are scattered across this city like confetti, and I would like one peaceful dinner where everyone is accounted for."
Clyde nodded solemnly. "That sounds statistically unlikely."
Rita checked her phone. "The Changs and the McBrides are rounding up their end. The Casagrandes are already heading back."
Ronnie Anne groaned. "Aww, but we didn't even get to see the snow leopard!"
"You can come back tomorrow," Rita promised.
"I'm good with that," Sid said. "This time I can bring my sister."
Lynn Sr clapped his hands together. "Alright, zoo crew! Field trip's over! Single file!"
The kids began walking toward the exit while still chatting about animals and alien invasions. Rita and Lynn Sr followed behind, finally able to breathe a little easier.
As they walked through New York City, Lincoln looked to the side and spotted the top of a familiar building. "No way! Is that Avengers Tower!?"
Everyone else turned to see the building as well.
"Well how about that?" Lynn Sr said.
Rising above the surrounding buildings was Avengers Tower, its sleek glass surface reflecting the late afternoon sun like a beacon.
Stella's eyes widened. "Whoa…"
Sid craned her neck so far back she nearly tipped over. "That's not a building...that's a statement."
Ronnie Anne crossed her arms, impressed despite herself. "Okay, yeah. That's kind of awesome."
Clyde pushed his glasses up, voice shaky with excitement. "That's where they work. You know. Earth's Mightiest Heroes! Real-time defenders of planetary stability."
Lincoln was unusually quiet, the boy merely took in the sight as if he were absorbing the essence of greatness that was coming from the building.
"Lincoln?" Rita said as she tried getting her son's attention.
"Whoa, he's really amazed," Lynn Sr commented.
Lincoln was in awe while staring up at the tower. Memories flickered through his mind. Battles on screens, news footage, destruction, heroes standing where he once stood alone.
"They fight things that level cities," Lincoln said softly. "And people just… keep living right next to it."
Lynn Sr. rested a hand on his shoulder. "That's New York for you. Big threats, bigger courage."
Stella glanced at Lincoln, noticing the tension in his posture. "Still… it must feel different seeing it in person."
"Yeah," Lincoln admitted. "It does."
Sid leaned closer to the railing. "Do you think Iron Man is in there right now? Like… eating a sandwich?"
Clyde snapped his fingers. "Statistically speaking? Highly probable."
"Oh how I would love to see the armor that Iron Man uses up close!" Stella said as stars sparkled in her eyes.
Ronnie Anne smirked at the building. "If I lived there, I'd feel like a Queen. I bet that's how they all feel."
"I can't imagine what it's like for the people who work there," Rita said. "I bet they're always on call."
Lincoln's gaze lingered on the tower just a moment longer before he turned away. "Let's hurry, I gotta tell everyone what we just saw!"
"Slow down champ, I understand the enthusiasm though," Lynn Sr said.
As they walked on, Avengers Tower loomed behind them as a reminder that New York wasn't just a city. It was a frontline.
Lincoln looked back on occasion, feeling a sense of motivation from seeing such a magnificent building.
A building home to many he felt incredible respect and admiration towards.
As the family continued navigating through the city, Lynn Sr was glancing down at his map. "Am I reading this right?"
"Lynn, we're not lost are we?" Rita asked.
"No Rita, we're perfectly on track, I swear!" Lynn Sr insisted as he read the map. "We just need to take fifty paces to the right."
"Lynn, you're making it sound like you're reading a treasure map," Rita said as she glanced at the map. "Let me see."
"Rita, I've got this," Lynn Sr insisted.
As they walked around, Lincoln spotted an interesting looking building with familiar words. "The Daily Bugle?"
"Huh?" Stella took note of the building. "Where have I heard that before?"
Rita overheard and glanced at the building, "Oh, this is where my Boss Mr. Jameson started out. He founded this building and printed newspapers like he does for the Royal Woods Gazette."
Lincoln furrowed his brow, the boy not too happy to see this place up close. "I see..."
"We can take a tour soon, right now we really need to get back to the hotel," Rita said as she glanced at the map. "If we can find a way..."
"It's this way, I'm sure of it," Lynn Sr said.
One hour alter, after more pointless twists and turns, The Loud Parents arrived with their party to the hotel where everyone else had been gathered.
Everyone was already sharing details of their trip across New York City in enthusiastic detail.
"Radio City was amazing!" Lola said. "We gotta get tickets for their Christmas Spectacular!"
"I second that, it would be amazing!" Benny said. "But we gotta move fast, that show is quick to sell out."
"I would have liked to see Radio City," Cricket said.
"You will, take my word for it," Lola reassured.
"Cricket could have seen it today if you didn't ditch her, Lola," Lana pointed out.
"I know, and I feel bad about it," Lola said, then turned to Cricket with her puppy eyes. "Forgive me?"
"...You know I can," Cricket said as she pulled Lola into a hug. "Besides, I got to see The Intrepid. It's such a pretty looking boat!"
"I definitely want to check out Radio City too," Sam said. "But we got to see Madison Square Garden!"
"I already got eyes on a few games," Lynn said. "The Knicks and The Rangers will be competing. I gotta see both!"
"I got to see the New York Public Library," Lisa said. "I even checked out some books."
"How many did you get?" Stella asked.
"Just enough to get me through the night," Lisa said as she gestured to the stack that was triple the size of Darcy.
"What do you mean a night!?" Darcy asked in disbelief.
"Haiku and I got to visit a cemetery," Lucy said. "It was hauntingly beautiful."
"I wish we could have stayed longer," Haiku said. "The spirits usually come out at night."
"Creepy..." Lola said.
"Bobby and I got to see The Empire State Building," Lori said.
"Yeah, we even went inside, it was awesome!" Bobby said.
"I went shopping with Fiona in Time's Square!" Leni said. "It was totes fun!"
"It sounds like you all had fun, I really want to go to all these places,: Lily said. "Except for Lucy's idea. It's way too creepy."
"...To each their own," Lucy said.
"What about you, Linky?" Lily asked. "Where did you go?"
"Central Park," Lincoln said. "We rode bikes, and went to the zoo."
"A zoo!?" Lana asked. "I wanna go there!"
"Me too!" Adelaide said.
"That's not all," Lincoln said. "We saw Avengers Tower!"
"Badass!" Sam said.
"Was it amazing?" Lynn asked.
"It was beyond amazing!" Lincoln said. "It was pure power!"
"Just looking at that place can make a person feel on top of the world," Ronnie Anne said.
"Imagine if we went inside, we could have seen Captain America!" Sid said.
"Man, you guys had all the fun!" Carl lamented. "I want to have fun like that!"
"Don't worry, our parents are going to plan a proper outing," Lori said. "We'll go back to these places and try new ones. Mom's already planning a trip to The Statue of Liberty."
"That's cool, but I gotta join Len in Time's Square," Carlota said. "That place looks like a blast to be at."
"Everything is one subway away," Lori said.
"I bet my dad can't wait to ride New York City subways," Sid said.
Lynn Sr called. "Dinner time everyone!"
"Oh sweet!" Lynn Jr said as she along with the others dashed ahead.
That night, Lincoln was seen in his room and glancing out of the window. The first day in New York was amazing, but there was still so much more he wanted to do.
He glanced at his bag, spotting the Spider-Man costume he brought over in secret.
Not too long later, Stella had come into the room, "Hey, big day huh? And there's more tomorrow."
"Yeah, I can't wait," Lincoln said.
Stella glanced out of the window as well. "You think we'll get a chance to meet The Avengers?
"Oh no doubt," Lincoln said. "We might see Natasha too."
"I can't wait," Stella said as she looked out the window. "Wow, this city sure is pretty."
"Yeah..." Lincoln instinctively glanced to the side at the girl beside him. "Pretty..."
Stella was oblivious as she focused on what was next, "You think your parents would let us see a Broadway show? There's so many to see."
"Which one do you want to go for?" Lincoln asked.
"I wish I could pick," Stella said. "Do I want to see old France? Do I want to see a Phantom? Or Dancing Cats?"
"I'd settle for Lion King," Lincoln said. "Or Aladdin."
"Good choices," Stella said as she made her exit. "See you tomorrow."
Lincoln saluted Stella away as he focused back on the city, unaware of what laid in store for him.