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twstgabrielle 1 year
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Sup y'all? I hope you all have been doing well this week! I just wanted to apologize for the lack of activity this week and the possibility of being gone for random moments at a time in the future. Things have been incredibly busy, and me and my family have a lot of things to do like packing up and finding a new place so I'll be here on and off. I also wanted to let everyone know that I won't be able to update my fics like Universal Collision until further notice.
Hopefully once everything's settled again and me and my family have everything back on track, I'll be able to update my fics and work on future chapters and oneshots. Anyways that's all I really wanted to say, I didn't want anyone to think that I'd like abandoned Universal Collision or any of my other stuff. It's just a hiatus in a way till things calm down.
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twstgabrielle 1 year
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Warning: This fic contains language, blood, gore, violence, fighting, fatal injuries and major spoilers for the 2012 series. If any of this makes you uncomfortable I highly encourage y'all to check out my other works.
Spring. It was the sign of new beginnings, a sign of rebirth and growth with its blooming flowers and trees and warm gentle breezes. Spring was the type of season that Karai adored especially since this current spring marked the first anniversary of her little brother's arrival into her and her father's lives. The six year old girl rushed out of her bed, buzzing with excitement as she rushed around to get herself ready and dressed. Running her brush through her straight black locks, Karai took a look at herself in the mirror taking in her outfit. The plain maroon red shirt and plain black pants and old shoes worked well with what her plans entailed for her and her brother. Giving a little smile towards the mirror her light amber eyes sparkled back at her in excitement before she finally rushed out of her bedroom to go to the one next door.
Not hesitating to let herself into the room Karai rushed towards the bed that sat near the wall practically jumping onto it waking the sleeping five year old boy within it. Big dark blue eyes blinked awake startled as he pushed himself up in his bed meeting the excited, mischievous smile of his older sister. The boy gave her a confused look, his three fingered hands forming sleepy words.
'What's wrong? Is everything okay?'
He signed, the child or rather turtle toddler asked. Karai just gave him a bigger smile in response.
"Everything's fine Leo! But you have to get up there's something important I have to show you!"
She said shaking her little brother some more. Leo gave her another look before finally getting out of bed, more awake now due to Karai's contagious energy. Once her little brother was ready and awake and dressed, Karai grabbed Leo's hand and dragged him out of his room, running down the corridors of the large Japanese home, passing a few workers along the way. Leo squeezed her hand in a nervous way, uneasy with all the people they passed. Karai squeezed his hand back as she continued on towards her destination. The kitchen was soon within sight and the Japanese girl pulled her little brother through it, the two of them being greeted by the scent of breakfast. An older woman had just finished setting the second plate down when Karai called out to her.
"Miss. Lotus! Is breakfast ready?? Me and Leo are starving!!!"
Karai chirped making the older woman look up at the duo and smile a soft smile.
"You two are just in time, it was just finished Mistress Karai. I figured that you and Master Leonardo would be hungry, also I've prepared that special request you'd asked for the other day. It's ready to go when you're both finished."
Lotus replied with a small chuckle, earning a sparkling smile from Karai and a confused look from Leo. Saying a small thank you to the older Japanese woman, the young six and five year olds sat down at the table and began to eat. The whole time they ate Leo would sign questions at his older sister, wondering what this special request was and what Karai had planned. All that he'd receive from her was a mischievous smile and a be patient you'll see. Once they were done with breakfast, Leo was once again being dragged along by his older sister. Karai grabbed a small basket from Lotus before the duo left the kitchen with Karai calling out a goodbye and before Leo knew it they were bursting out of the side door of the house and rushing down the countryside hills away from home.
It was about an hour of running into the Japanese countryside, passing by trees, bugs and wildlife when Karai had suddenly stopped making Leo nearly run into her back. Bright amber hues met dark blue ones as Karai spoke.
"Cover your eyes! You can't see it till I say you can!"
Karai said somewhat demanding the turtle. Leo gave her an unsure look his hands signing in response.
'But what if I trip and fall? Onee-chan I don't want to-'
He'd tried to protest only to be stopped by his sister who grabbed his hands and gave him a serious look.
"Leo do you trust me?"
Karai asked startling the younger. Leo didn't even hesitate to nod at her letting her know that he did.
"Then please......close your eyes. I won't let anything happen to you. I promise."
She pleaded. Leo stared at her for a moment before finally slipping his eyes shut, giving Karai complete control over his movements. His older sister was gentle as she guided him forward, letting him know when something was in his way and helping him around it. After a few minutes of doing this small dance Karai finally stopped them, giving his hands another reassuring squeeze.
"Okay Leo.......open them."
The six year olds voice softly gave him the okay. The five year old slowly opened his eyes blinking them against the sunshine before focusing on what was before him. Dark blue eyes widened in childish wonder and awe as they made contact with a large sakura tree. The tree branches were filled with beautiful pink and red cherry blossoms, their sweet scent filling his nose and filling him with a sense of calm. Leo turned to look over at his sister, noticing her slightly awkward and almost shy shimmying.
"I've been wanting to show this for a year now, since you couldn't see them last year. It's a tradition that I do every spring, and I wanted you to be apart of it too. So.......happy one year siblingversary."
The older child finished off her face turning pink in how sentimental she'd sounded. But she'd wanted to make their first anniversary as brother and sister memorable. She wanted to make him see something beautiful and hopeful so he could truly start to let go of his past from a year ago. For a year since last spring when Karai had found him unconscious in the riverbank by her village, Leo had always looked spooked and uneasy never saying a word to anyone and silently following her wherever she went. Karai may not completely understand why Leo was so scared but she knew enough to know that he needed comfort and reassurance in his new life with the Oroku family. Karai refused to look at him too embarrassed to, getting a bit uneasy with his silence. After fighting with herself the girl finally turned her attention towards her brother again and nearly recoiled in shock.
Leo was crying.
Tears, silent and fat rolled out of his watery blue hues and down his chubby green cheeks, his gaze boring straight into her. Karai felt her heart sink and she began to panic. This wasn't what she wanted, she didn't want to make Leo cry, she wanted to make him smile, not breakdown.
"Oh-! Leo are you okay-!?! I'm so sorry I didn't mean to make you cry-"
The six year old began to say desperately trying to fix it when the five year old lunged at her, wrapping his arms tightly around her as he cried quietly. Karai froze before wrapping her arms around him as well, rubbing his shell in soothing circles to try and calm him down. The eldest child was so scrambled by all of this that she nearly missed something very important. However her training that she'd started a year ago had made her ears sharper and what she heard made her heart jump.
It was a voice.
A voice soft and full of tears whispering quietly into her neck, smooth and childish and small and filled with a touched gratitude.
"Thank you.....thank you Onee-chan I love it thank you so much...."
Leo repeated softly over and over again as he hugged her tightly. Karai meanwhile was on cloud nine, giddy happiness filling her very being because her little brother after a year of silence had finally spoken to her and that was more than she could have ever asked for in a million years. She squeezed him back tightly, pressing a small kiss to the top of his head.
"You're welcome little brother. I'm happy that you like my surprise.....now! Let's get set up and get lunch together! We've got a long day of playing ahead of us!"
Karai said her panic all but gone as she pulled away from Leo and with his hand in hers pulled him towards the sakura tree. The two spent the rest of the day playing beneath its branches, the sounds of their laughter filling the gentle spring breeze along with the delicate pink petals. Soon the day came to its end and Leo began to grow tired. Karai picked him up onto her back and began to make their long trip home, knowing that their father would be home when they got there. Leo slept against Karai's back, his body light and warm as she carried him. Turning her light amber hues onto the sleeping turtle Karai felt a feeling of protectiveness fill her being.
'Don't you worry Leo, you won't ever have to be alone again. Onee-chan will stay with you and keep you safe. I promise.'
The Japanese girl swore as they drew further away from the sakura tree and made their way home.
~~~~~
'Please, please don't do this to me God damnit Leo-!'
A sixteen year old Karai pleaded mentally as she dragged her brother's broken and unconscious body from the New York rivers. The harsh winter chill dug into her bones, making her feel as if she'd been stabbed several times as she and Leo finally got out of the freezing and merciless waters. The teenager's lungs were on fire and everything hurt yet Karai forced herself to keep going. Wrapping an arm around Leo's waist, with a bit of difficulty she managed to get him onto her back, being careful of the busted knee and broken shell. With raspy breathes and gritted teeth Karai began to carry her little brother away from the water, fighting against the harsh winter weather as she disappeared into the snow and winds, her only mission to get away from their father as fast as possible.
'No not our father, he was never our father. He's a murderer, a lunatic who's lied to himself and to us! To think that I ever loved him-!'
The thought vicious and betrayed hissed in her head as she continued to carry on, noting how cold Leo was getting. Karai cursed, a sense of dread filling her. She needed to get them out of the cold, if she didn't get them, him out of the freezing temperatures he'd......Leo would......
'No, don't think about it. Focus Oroku Karai. You can't lose your head yet. Not now.'
She told herself forcing herself to focus on her current task. She had a mission to complete and she was going to see it through even if it killed her. Karai had no idea how long she walked through the snow and harsh winds, her body soaked and freezing slowly as the snow and ice stuck onto her and Leo. The sixteen year old girl just continued onwards, blinded by her need to save Leo's life. An eternity seemed to pass when finally she'd found sanctuary in an alleyway. It was dark and damp and filled with trash, ice and snow but it blocked the winds that tore at the two siblings and that was enough for Karai. With trembling steps the ninja dragged them into the alley before she finally collapsed onto her knees, fatigue and cold finally getting to her. With a trembling, ice cold touch, Karai gently removed Leo from her back and placed him onto his uninjured side to take a look at the damage. What she saw made bile rise in her throat. Leo's throat was filled with slice marks and nicks that bleed sluggishly, his knee was twisted in an unnatural way, swollen around its kneecap and his shell.......
A crack, long and jagged went straight down his shell, the wound bleeding heavily onto it. Karai forced herself to keep her calm and she removed her sash that hung around her waist, covering the bleeding crack with the frozen and soaked maroon red fabric. Leo didn't even so much as make a sound when she'd done it, making her be filled with even more dread than before. Karai knew that despite Leo's human DNA, he was still a somewhat cold blooded reptile and to go through such a traumatic experience and then thrown into icy cold water and freezing winds was the worst thing that could ever be done. The female ninja continued her attempts on covering his wounds, her hands shaking, frozen and covered in warm blood. Due to how cold her fingers were the blood felt as if it was burning her, causing her to feel a stinging pain that she ignored. Finally wrapping Leo's cracked shell, Karai gently moved them into a trash bag pile, laying them down onto it before wrapping her arms and legs around her baby brother in a vain attempt to get him warm again when she herself was just as frozen.
Karai didn't move from her spot next to her little brother, instead keeping a close eye on him and their surroundings to the best of her ability. The oldest Oroku sibling gently ran her fingers over the youngest Oroku's frozen pale cheek. Leo remained still, his eyes closed and his breathing light, raspy and slow. His usual bright green scaly skin was a dull frozen green color, cold to the touch and covered in dry blood and snow. Karai felt her throat tighten as she really took in the condition her little brother was in, realizing that Leo's injuries were fatal.
"I should have realized.....should have known that something was up when the Shredder sent me out alone for that mission. I shouldn't have left you alone, should've insisted that you come along with me. I should've been there for you, I'm sorry.....I'm so sorry......Leo....."
Karai muttered, her voice soft and rasping from her lack of use of it. She swallowed hard as she cursed herself for not realizing sooner, for not being able to protect Leo from harm. The sixteen year old should have known that the Shredder would be furious, would be murderous for Leo's act of treason when he'd went to protect that purple turtle Donnie. The turtle who was the son of their sworn enemy, the Hamato clan. She should have been suspicious when the Shredder had sent her on a solo mission, he never did things like that. It was always her and Leo who went together, it was always the two of them and rarely were they ever separated for things like this. Yet she hadn't questioned it and had went alone, unknowingly leaving Leo to be gone at by their master like a pig to the slaughter.
'If I hadn't come back at the time I did.....if I'd come back any later.....'
The thought whispered haunting her to her very core as she recalled searching for the Shredder only to see him holding Leo's broken and bleeding body over the New York bridge before tossing him over the side of it. The sounds of her little brother's body, limp and unconscious hitting the waters with an echoing splash. She hadn't hesitated when she'd screamed Leo's name, jumping over the side herself to get to him, effectively committing her own act of treason against the Shredder by doing so. But at the time as well as now Karai knew that she would do it again and again, because no matter how much she loved their father, Leo her baby brother, her best friend would always come first. Karai gripped Leo's body tighter, her frame shaking from cold and barely held back tears as she felt the frozen body in her arms. The body of her little brother that only grew colder and stiffer with each passing minute.
'I'm gonna lose him. I'm gonna lose my little brother and it's all my fault.'
Karai thought as she clung to him, her own body now slowly down in its trembling tremors. The female ninja was beginning to realize that she couldn't feel her fingers and toes and her body had started to feel numb. It didn't take a rocket scientist to put together that she was starting to follow Leo in this cold, deathly slumbering world of numbness and stillness. Leo's body was now deathly still, his bleeding wounds having nearly stopped and covered in a thin layer of frost and snow. He was dying, her little brother was dying and there was nothing Karai could do about it and that broke her in a way she'd never been broken before.
"Don't go Leo......don't go where I can't follow. Please don't leave me alone, Leo you can't die please.....!"
Karai began to speak up again, her voice thick as she desperately pleaded with the frozen and broken frame in her arms.
"You can't die yet......! What about Shini?? She's gonna be devastated if you leave!! And what about your dreams??!! The dreams of becoming a teacher and teaching others the ways of ninjutsu?!?!"
The older teen rambled her body becoming more aware despite the cold as she grew more and more upset.
"You promised me that you'd stay by my side-!! We made a pact to always stick together!! Leo don't die on me please God fucking damnit please I'm begging you, little brother please just......just stay here with me.....please I still need you here......."
Karai begged her battle with her tears lost as they flew down her pale frozen cheeks. She knew that what she was asking was hopeless and pointless, knew that asking him not to die was something he could just make happen. Not when his wounds and the harsh unforgiving elements were against him. Yet she couldn't stop herself, couldn't stop the devastation and heartbreaking grief that was consuming her. Burying her face into his chest she listened to the slow, sluggishly heartbeat behind the chest plate, dreading the moment when it finally stopped beating for good. Silent sobs shook her and she cursed herself for crying. Karai wasn't a crier, having been told her whole life that crying was a sign of weakness. But she couldn't stop the tears that flowed from her amber eyes and onto her pale cheeks. Not when she was going to be alone. As Karai broke down the sudden sounds of boots crunching on the snow made her freeze.
They'd been found.
The eldest Oroku child didn't know how she managed to move her frozen body, didn't know how she managed to grip her sword with her blueish, frozen fingers, didn't know how she managed to get her limbs covered in damp water and frost to move as quickly as she did but she did it. The sounds of her sword unsheathing sounded in the fringed air the person who had stepped into the alleyway letting out a startled shout at barely missing being cut.
"Stay the hell away from us! Don't you dare come anywhere near-!"
The Japanese teen snarled ready to fight to the death, her own condition be damned when a familiar voice called out her name.
"Karai?!? What are you doing here?!?! Just what are you planning-oh.....oh my God...Leo?!?! What the hell happened to him-oh shit Karai-!!!"
The voice, feminine and familiar had shot out questions, once suspicious and heated now full of horror and concern and panic. Karai's body had begun to collapse again, the world spinning around her as she was grabbed by the familiar stranger to keep her from hitting her head off the concrete. Karai fought to remain focused but her body was officially quitting on her. Her vision blurred, full of snowflakes and freezing tears. The feminine voice was talking sounding rushed and panicked.
"I need you here immediately-! Karai and Leo they're-! I know that they're of the Foot clan but I can't just leave them out here to freeze too death-!! Please Dee you gotta-!!! Oh shit Karai stay awake, Karai?!? KARAI?!?!! DEE WE NEED HELP NOW-"
The voice called out sounding muffled and unclear, like it was talking underwater. But Karai paid no mind to it instead instinctively reaching out back towards Leo's unconscious frame, her fingers brushing against his own weakly as she gripped them, struggling against the person holding her. Once his hand was in hers Karai went limp, relief and acceptance filling her.
'If we don't make it Leo.......perhaps the gods will be merciful and let us be reborn again as siblings. Just wait for me okay? You won't be alone......Onee-chan won't let you be alone......never again......'
The thought breathed in her mind as she finally drifted off into unconscious, content to be near her brother until the very end.
*Oroku 12 Leo and Oroku 12 Karai my beloveds. This AU has been living rent free in my head and I just had to write something for it. Karai is probably super ooc since I've never really written for her but I got the feeling that if she and Leo grew up alongside each other then she'd be fiercely protective over him. Anyways I love this AU a lot and I'm just gonna do little pieces here and there for it. Maybe one day it'll be an actual story who knows? Anyways if any y'all read this I hope you enjoyed it!!*
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twstgabrielle 1 year
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Hi Gabrielle! 馃挆
I have five ideas about Rottmnt x GF crossover fanfic about shy!fem!human!reader's 3rd information:
1) She is a 16 years old teenager. And Leo & Donnie are 16 years old teenagers too.
2) She is a transfer student at April's high school in New York City & she is April's next neighbor too. And shy!fem!human!reader live alone at apartment.
3) Shy!fem!human!reader & April quickly becomes fast friends for real.
4) April is her first true friend she has. Turtles boys are her first true friends too.
5) Shy!fem!human!reader had no friends for long time because she was bullied by mean girls and insensitive boys for being timid, anime/cartoon Otaku & gamer many times. That's why April is so very protective of her. 馃槶馃挃
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~馃
I absolute live for the friendship here, April and the reader being besties is honestly incredibly sweet!!! :D
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twstgabrielle 1 year
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Hi Gabrielle! 馃挄
I have 7 ideas about Rottmnt x GF crossover fanfic about shy!fem!human!reader's relationship with their younger siblings, Mabel and Dipper Pines:
She has closest sibling bond with them. She is so extremely loving, understanding, caring and kindhearted big sister to them. 馃ズ馃挄
She is so extremely protective of Mabel and Dipper. She is very fond of children. But she is very pissed off when someone harmed or bullied them then she shows her inner angry Fluttershy (Mlp:EG) side toward someone who harmed or bullied Mabel and Dipper. 馃槺馃挦
Like as GF episode Fight Fighters's ending about she is very pissed off at Robbie when she learns about Robbie planned to fight Dipper. Robbie learns the hard way and he is very terrified of her. 馃ぃ Rottmnt turtle boys and Dipper witnessed the shy!fem!human!reader showed her inner angry Fluttershy side toward Robbie. 馃ぃ
Shyfem!human!reader and Dipper are having many interests such video games, mysteries and supernatural creatures.
Shy!fem!human!reader and Mabel are having many interests such as cartoons and fantasies.
Mabel and Dipper are so extremely protective of their big sister and they do not let creepy boys like Robbie near her. 馃き
But Mabel and Dipper are biggest shippers for shy!fem!human!reader and Leo & Donnie (poly). Mabel and Dipper team up with Mikey and Shelldon to get them together many times because they want their big sister to feel happy and loved. 馃ズ馃挊
~馃
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Oooooo-!!! That's so cute-!! Especially the Mikey and Shelldon parts where they try to help the reader out!!! Plus the reader being like a big sister to the twins is super cute!!!
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twstgabrielle 1 year
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If it makes you feel better fam I do apologize for the distress lol
Saw some wonderful reactions to my newest chapter via its cliffhanger.
Extremely pleased that it turned out the way I was hoping for. >:3
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twstgabrielle 1 year
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Reading Guidelines and Warnings: The 12 boys will be addressed by their full names unless they're speaking to each other or to one another. The Rise boys will be addressed via nicknames and other variants of said names. Also there will be spoilers for both shows as well as blood, injuries, major character death, gore, language, fights and violence. If any of this makes you uncomfortable I highly encourage y'all to check out my other works.
Darkness.
It was all that surrounded him, an inky blackness that blinded him. Mikey looked around the darkness that surrounded him, light brown hues scanning for anything that was familiar, only to be met with silence and the abyss of nothingness. The air around him was tense and made his dark green skin crawl in an unnerved way. The fourteen year old began to make his way through the darkness, becoming more desperate the more he was met with nothing. Soon he was running, shouting out the names of his brothers and friends, hoping for someone to answer him other than the eerie silence of the void that he found himself in. Before he realized it his eyes began to burn slightly, his body trembling as he realized just how truly alone he was in this place. The box turtle wanted nothing more than to find his brothers, to find his father, April, their friends, anyone really. As Mikey wiped at his eyes to clear them of the tears that had begun to build he suddenly caught something from the corner of his eye.
Turning his head towards it he was met with a sight that filled him with relief instantly. A light, bright and beckoning shined ahead of him. The fourteen year old boy didn't hesitate to start running towards the light, its glowing presence being the only thing that was keeping him from being swallowed by the hopeless and oppressive silent dark that he was in. As Mikey ran towards the light and drew closer to it he realized that the light was actually chains. The chains shined and pulsed with an orange glow, the sounds of their rattling filling his ears. Mikey pushed himself more reaching out to touch them.
'Come on I'm almost there-! Just a little bit more-'
He'd thought only to have it be cut off as his foot caught onto something, making him fall onto the ground with a harsh whooshing noise. Mikey let out a hiss of pain, his forearms sore from the fall. Forcing himself to sit up the orange turtle turned his head towards his feet, light brown hues searching for the object that had tripped him......
Only to let out a horrific scream.
The object that had tripped him, wasn't an object at all. No it was a corpse, torn apart and bleeding from several wounds and slices all over its body. The glowing chains shore down on the body, lighting up a familiar face with a blue bandana, red strips and lifeless light blue eyes staring blankly upwards. The sight chilled Mikey down to his very bones as he realized that this body was his older brother.
It was Leo.
"LEO-!!!"
Mikey screamed, scrambling over towards Leo to try and help him, even though deep down he knew that it was already too late. Dark green hands began to press onto the sluggishly bleeding wound, covering them in their crimson shade. Mikey fought the tears as he saw the broken and torn shell, pieces of teal broken off and scattered around Leo's body. As Mikey tried to save the corpse that was once his older brother, the box turtle finally took notice of his surroundings, his heart sinking in his chest as he realized that there were other forms that surrounded him. Completely out of sight orginally but now in view due to the mystical chains that were nearby, showed the torn and mangled corpses of his older brothers, Raph and Donnie. Donnie was on his side, his battle shell nothing more than shreds along with his actual shell. Raph was close by, his shell smashed and broken so much that he was nothing more than a pile of broken and torn shell bits. But they weren't the only ones, there were others, the bodies of the older turtles were amongst them. Raphael was close to Donnie's body, completely broken and ruined and in a similar state just like Mikey's brothers. A bit further away from them, laying next to Raph was Donatello and Michelangelo, the two's bodies barely recognizable and ruined by the same wounds that littered the others. Mikey felt his breathing begin to speed up, hyperventilating as he could only look at the corpses of the people who he knew and loved. As the orange turtle began to gasp and wheeze in his building panicked and grief stricken hysteria he finally took note that there was someone missing amongst the carnage that laid before him.
Leonardo wasn't with them.
Mikey felt his stomach sink as he realized this, shakily forcing himself to stand up now desperate to locate Leonardo before the same fate befell him as well. Mikey ran towards the glowing chains, his heart racing when he heard the pained cry of a crocking voice that belonged to the oldest Hamato. Mikey's head snapped towards the cry, his light brown eyes landing on the figure of Leonardo, the older turtle's swords were drawn, and he was leaning heavily on one of his legs, the other looking bruised and swollen and out of place. Mikey let out a shout of the older turtle's name, causing Leonardo's dark blue eyes to snap towards him. The look of dread that appeared on the usually calm and confident leader made Mikey's heart stop and his blood freeze in his veins.
"MIKEY-! RUN GET OUT OF HERE BEFORE-"
Leonardo had begun to shout his voice cracking. As he shouted arms full of sharp, jagged bone like blades came from the darkness behind the blue clad leader, their forearms glowing with pulsating greenish teal veins.
"LEONARDO LOOK OUT-!!"
Mikey screamed out a warning but it was too late. As Leonardo turned around, those sharp bladed bones pierced the blue turtle's chest plate. The sounds of the shell cracking and breaking filled Mikey's ears, and the box turtle could only watch in muted horror as Leonardo grasped weakly at the forearm that had stabbed him, his fingers digging into the glowing veins. Blood began to pool around the chest wound, dripping down onto the ground, a thin crimson stream flowing from the corner of his mouth as he gasped and wheezed in a wet way. The arm flung Leonardo to the side with an insane and enraged roar, the blue clad turtle flying like a broken and bleeding doll as his body landed in front of Mikey's feet with a sickening cracking noise. Dark blue eyes looked at him with a fading light and Mikey let out a pained scream. The orange turtle went to go to the dying turtle only to be grabbed from behind by limbs made of rotting flesh and stale blood and the same glowing greenish teal substance from the arm that had killed the others. Mikey began to struggle against the limbs, the scent of blood and death filling his nose as he clawed at them, desperate to get away and to get to Leonardo. However he was dragged down, causing Mikey to catch a glimpse of the creatures of nightmares that were currently gripping him so tightly. Eyes filled with nothing but death and mystic energy filled his vision as they hissed and snarled at the teen. The orange clad turtle struggled more, suddenly catching sight of those monsters surrounding Leonardo. Their clawed hands grabbed at the older turtle's chest plate and began to tear the shell from him, exposing his chest for them. Mikey went to let out a hysterical and furious screech, to tell them to get away from Leonardo when pain suddenly consumed him.
The younger turtle let out a pained scream as his arms and hands were consumed by an unholy pain, the energy that was tearing into them familiar yet foriegn to him.
'It shouldn't feel like this, it should be warm and comforting, but it's burning, it's burning my arms and hands down to the very bone, make it stop please make it stop-!'
The thought screamed in agony in his head as he tried to get free. Mikey's gaze flickered towards his hands and his stomach rolled in a panicked nauseous feeling as he watched his hands began to crack in an orange mystic energy. Spiderweb cracks crawled up his arms, burning him in their wake. The creatures that were holding him began to tear at him as well, the glowing chains that he'd so desperately followed rattled loudly at his pain and distress. Mikey could only watch in horror and fear as he was consumed by the cracks, his whole body shattering into a little pieces with one last pained scream before he was nothing more than unrecognizable bits and pieces.
~~~~~
Mikey woke up in a wheezing gasp, blindingly trying to get a glimpse of his surroundings despite the dark room he was in. Pinprick light brown pupils frantically shot around the room, his heart pounding harshly in his chest. The orange turtle managed to catch glimpses of the familiar sofa and VHS player and ancient TV that made up the older turtles living room, making him let out a rattling breath before he looked for his brothers. It didn't take him long to put together the familiar snores and soft breathing of his older brothers who were fast asleep in their nest of blankets and pillows. Mikey felt his heart begin to slow down as he nervously forced himself to look at his hands and arms, expecting to see the burning spiderweb cracks that had made him shatter into bits and pieces. However all he was greeted with was his familiar dark green scaly skin, unblemished by cracks or burning mystical flames.
'It's okay, I'm okay, we're okay, I'm in the lair, my brothers and friends are fine they aren't.....they aren't......aren't what......?'
The box turtle's thoughts began to slow down as the adrenaline died down and the once vivid, realistic nightmare faded away. As he tried to recall what it was about he found himself unable to, almost as if the nightmare itself had never existed. All that remained of the night terror was the sensation of his hands and arms itching somewhat and a horrid sense of uneasiness that had settled over him like a weighted blanket. Before Mikey even realized it, the fourteen year old had already began to lay back down amongst the warm blankets and pillows, his eyes drooping as exhaustion began to take him once more, before he finally drifted off into an restless sleep once more.
~~~~~
Patrol night.
It was a rather uneventful time Mikey had come to learn rather quickly in the past three weeks. After the first week of staying in his friend Michelangelo's home and Donnie and Donatello still coming up with no answers to getting them home, Leonardo had decided to get them used to the area around the younger turtles. Mikey and his brothers began to familiarize themselves with the sewer systems that ran beneath the city, as well as train vigorously under Leonardo's watchful and wise eyes. By the time the second week had started up Leonardo and his brothers had began to show them the ropes of their nightly duties for patrols, splitting the younger teens up with one of the older ones so no one would get lost. It also served to have two sets of eyes on the lookout for any suspicious activity within the city or for any sightings of the Kraang.
Which is why the youngest Hamato was standing next to Raph in the sewer tunnels waiting for the pair ups to be given out to the group of eight. The orange turtle stared at his hands quietly, not really speaking much unless he was directly spoken to. From the moment he'd woken up this morning, Mikey had been in a somewhat unsettled kind of haziness, going through the motions automatically rather than his usual efforts. He'd also been sticking rather close to his older brothers and friends, quietly sneaking glances at them to make sure that they were okay. Though his eyes lingered the most on Leonardo, for what reason he didn't really know. All he knew was that whenever the blue leader would disappear from sight Mikey would instantly feel a sense of dread settle on him, making him even more spooked than he originally was. Mikey was pulled from his thoughts by Leonardo's voice speaking up making the group go quiet.
"Alright, tonight we'll get ourselves paired up and go to different sections of the city and keep a look out for anything. It'll just be us tonight seeing as how April has the night shift."
The leader said his voice crackling a bit. Mikey looked up at the others, noting how Leonardo was standing in front of the group as he addressed them all. Raphael, ever the watchful shadow of the blue clad turtle was leaning against the wall, looking all the image of impatience. Donatello was next to the shorter red turtle, speaking quietly to Donnie as the two geniuses fiddled with Donatello's TPhone and Donnie's wrist communicator. Michelangelo was on the other side of his older brother Leonardo, his baby blues zoned in on the box turtle in hidden concern. Mikey couldn't help but feel a bit guilty for making the older orange clad turtle worried about him and shot him a semi smile to try and ease his companion. Michelangelo just gave him a small look before reluctantly tearing his gaze off of the youngest of them all.
Mikey let out a silent sigh of relief before he finally looked at his remaining two older brothers who were the closest to him and quietly conversing with one another, their own eyes flickering on the baby of their family every so often. Mikey didn't get a chance to think too much on it when Leonardo spoke up again.
"First pair off, Mikey and Raph. You two will cover the rundowned parts of the city."
The oldest Hamato said gesturing at Raph and Michelangelo. Michelangelo shot his older brother a smile and a thumbs up.
"Sounds good to me bro!"
The older orange turtle chirped.
"Raph and Mike's got this in the bag."
The snapping turtle chimed in a snaggletooth grin on his face. Leonardo gave them both a small smile before continuing.
"Next to pair up will be Donnie and Leo. You two will be in charge of town square."
Leonardo directed at Donatello and Leo. The purple genius looked up then, reddish brown eyes full of a split second of confusion before he'd processed what his older brother had said.
"Ah roger that Leo."
Donatello replied before going back to his fiddling with Donnie on their tech.
"Next to go, Donnie and I-"
Leonardo began to say only to be interrupted.
"NO-!"
A voice, full of hysterical panic shouted, the volume so loud it echoed in the tunnels, causing the seven other turtles to jump out of their skin in surprise. Several pairs of eyes drifted to the source of the sudden raised voice, which had belonged to none other than Mikey. The box turtle in question didn't even seem to notice just how freaked out he'd sounded. All that Mikey was aware of was the loud rushing sound of blood in his ears and the slight tremors in his arms as panic overtook him for one moment. As soon as he had heard that the oldest Hamato wouldn't be within sight anymore Mikey, for a reason he couldn't understand nor explain had completely rejected it. The very thought of Leonardo leaving his sights had filled him with a foreboding sense of dread. Mikey suddenly realized how quiet it was and finally took notice of the other's expressions. Raph, Leo and Donnie were staring at him in an unsettled elderly brotherly concern, their eyes burning holes into him. Raphael, Donatello and Michelangelo on the other hand looked completely unnerved by Mikey's outburst, unsure on how to respond to it having never had the youngest react in such a manner.
Leonardo on the other hand looked surprised, or rather startled by Mikey's loud rejection, his dark blue eyes boring into the box shell in an unreadable way, obversing the situation before him and seemingly thinking of the options he had. Mikey suddenly felt exposed and vulnerable with the stares and quickly went to fix the atmosphere he'd unintentionally created.
"I mean....! It's just I haven't had a chance to pair up with Leonardo yet, and I think that I should get a chance to....."
Mikey explained his voice wavering a bit as he saved face. Leonardo just continued to look at him, searching for something that Mikey couldn't even begin to guess before he caught the eye of Leo. The two blue turtles seemed to have a brief silent conversation, dark blue hues speaking with light blue ones. After a beat Leonardo's gaze flickered back to Mikey before it softened slightly. Leonardo glanced over to Raphael, dark blue meeting bright green.
"Well Raph, do you mind us switching partners for tonight's patrol?"
The blue leader asked.
"Don't matter to me fearless, I just want to get this show on the road. Tired of standing around and not doing anything."
The red turtle responded, gruff in his usual way. Leonardo nodded satisfied before he continued.
"Alright, me and Mikey will partner up. We'll be in charge of the harbor and docks section of the city. And that just leaves Raph and Donnie as the last pair up. You two will be on the lookout near the city's cemetery."
The oldest finished earning nods and sounds of confirmation. At that moment Donatello piped up having gotten over his unsettled response to Mikey's earlier outburst.
"Also remember that your TPhone that I'd made for you guys has the new energy reading system that me and Donnie programmed as well as the emergency homing signal should anyone be in need of help."
The purple genius addressed making his younger counterpart chime in.
"Just press the button at the bottom of the TPhone to enact the signal and the team closest to you will be able to reach your location. Also when an energy surge happens the phones will alert you to it and track down the source of it or at least make an estimate of where it's coming from. Now is there any questions?"
The soft shell asked his dark brown eyes scanning the others looking for anyone objecting or wanting to ask a question. Getting silence in return Donnie nodded and went back to his fiddling of his wrist communicator.
"Alright, let's move out then! And remember, we're not to be seen by any humans!"
Leonardo commanded and with that the teams split up and headed down in different directions of the sewer tunnels. But not before they'd casted concerned looks towards the box turtle who didn't comment or acknowledge them, instead nervously shimmying in his place as he waited for Leonardo to take the lead. Seeing the oldest Hamato give him a silent nod before beginning to head down in the direction towards the docks, Mikey scrambling to catch up with him refusing to be left behind and have the silent turtle leave his sight. As the two descended into the dark, wet tunnels, their footsteps making an echoing splashing noise, Mikey couldn't help but feel a sudden sense of impending and foreboding dread settle within his chest plate.
'It's fine, we'll be fine. Relax Miguel.'
He told himself yet no matter how much he tried the feeling persisted.
~~~~~
The New York harbor was a rather dark and crowded place. Filled with empty storage units and boats meant for shipping things and whatnot parked near the piers. The sounds of the ocean waves and seagulls filled Mikey's ears as he crouched down by Leonardo who had not spoken a word the entire time. The duo had been patrolling the docks for a few hours now, seeing nothing but the birds and old fishing nets and boats. They would move whenever one of the night workers would come to close to them unknowingly, sticking to the shadows and remaining silent as to not draw unnecessary attention to themselves. For the past few hours they'd come up empty handed, having gained no leads nor clues to the Kraang nor the mysterious power surges. Mikey leaned against the crate he was currently hiding behind with Leonardo, his mind wandering from the current situation and instead focusing on the emotions he was currently feeling.
From the moment he and the blue clad turtle had gotten to the harbor the sense of dread and foreboding that had settled in him had just grown stronger, almost to the point where he felt like he was only seconds away from tearing himself out of his skin. Mindlessly Mikey began to rub at his wrists, the scaly dark green skin hot and tight and almost unfamiliar.
"Hey are you alright? You've been rather quiet all evening."
A voice, harsh and ragged startled the box turtle from his thoughts and made his light brown gaze snap upwards. Dark blue eyes met his, a shine of concern yet caution within them. Leonardo who had originally been keeping an eye out for any suspicious activity had noticed his partner's lack of focus and had decided to address it. Mikey felt his cheeks warm slightly in embarrassment.
"Uh yeah I'm fine Leonardo. I've just.....been thinking is all."
The orange turtle replied his voice soft spoken instead of his normal chipper cheer. The older turtle looked at him, an eyebrow quirked up as he just quietly and patiently waited for Mikey to continue on. The younger turtle felt himself start to shimmy slightly suddenly feeling exposed by the older blue turtle's seemingly knowing stare. Having Leonardo stare at him in such a manner reminded him scarily enough of his red eared slider brother Leo. This alternative turtle had the same focused and obversing gaze that Leo got on a few occasions and Mikey couldn't help it when his mouth opened up and he began to speak.
"I just.......I think I had a nightmare last night. And it's just left me feeling extremely uneasy. Which I know is silly but I can't just seem to shake it off."
Mikey finally admitted feeling a bit better.
"Can you tell me what it was about?"
Leonardo asked his voice soft and gentle, making Mikey relax a bit more.
"That's the thing. I can't remember what it was about. All I know is that it......it really shook me up."
The youngest Hamato admitted. Leonardo seemed to stare at the younger turtle for a beat seemingly thinking before finally responding.
"That's understandable. It must have been an awful nightmare if it leaves you spooked. But it'll be okay Mikey, even if it doesn't seem like it will be right now, it'll be okay. It was just a nightmare and it's okay to be scared or uneasy from this kind of thing."
The oldest Hamato explained, his tone though rough and crackling every so often was full of wisdom and reassurance. The box turtle felt himself completely let his earlier stress go, suddenly at ease with Leonardo's words and comforting presence. It was strange how this turtle, who Mikey had barely spoken to in the last three weeks besides during training or small conversations could make him feel suddenly safe and secured. Like nothing in the world could get to him as long as Leonardo was around.
'He's a lot like Raph......just a comforting presence.'
The box turtle thought a small smile coming onto his face, showing a hint of his gap.
"Thanks Leonardo."
Mikey thanked him only to have the older turtle wave him off and pat his painted shell with a gentle yet firm hand.
"No need to thank me. And please, Leo's just fine."
The older replied offering his own small closed mouth smile. Mikey's smile grew and he gave a small nod.
"Alright Leo it is then."
The youngest chirped lightly. However the somewhat lighter atmosphere between them was shattered when the docks suddenly began to tremble, the crates and wooden piers giving rattling sounds. Mikey felt himself stumble forward from the tremors only for Leonardo to grab him by the back of his painted shell to stop him. Almost immediately Mikey felt metaphorical hairs raise on the back of his neck, his body stiffening from the sudden change in the air. He felt Leonardo tense up as well and before he could even figure out what that meant the sudden snap of the atmosphere around them followed by the quick shift of the energy around them quite nearly knocked them off their feet. The sudden sound of their TPhones going nuts snapped them out of their shock and Leonardo pulled his phone out flipping it open and messing with it.
"Energy surge, and it was close."
The leader mumbled as he typed at his TPhone, not even flinching when he felt Mikey somewhat hang over his shoulder to get a better look.
"Holy pizza supreme it was huge! We should check it out!"
The orange turtle said his heart racing at the prospect of finally having a lead to their long search. The earlier feelings he'd been feeling before being momentarily forgotten as the excitement of their discovery took a front row seat. Leonardo on the other hand was somewhat glaring at the screen a look of caution on his face once more.
"It was huge.......it seems almost convenient for it to go off here.......too convenient."
The older turtle commented making the other freeze. Light brown hues bore into the older one, confusion and now unease coming back full force force.
"You think that it's something that was planned?"
Mikey asked a bit surprised. The fourteen year old didn't even think it was possible for something this big to be planned. However the way his companion was still tense and uneasy made Mikey pause in his surprise.
"It could very well have been. For all we know it could be a trap for the two of us to walk in to."
The eighteen year old explained his gaze thoughtful as he pulled up the coordinates of where the energy surge was possibly located.
"But it could also be something entirely unrelated. And we just happened to be at the right place at the right time."
The younger turtle piped in trying to be optimistic about the situation even though the feeling of foreboding slowly creeping back up. However he shoved it down. He couldn't afford to let the shadows of a nightmare that he didn't even remember rattle him up, especially when he and Leonardo were now so close to having a lead after three weeks of silence. Leonardo quietly pondered what the box turtle said, weighing the options and the pros and cons of the situation. Mikey sat on pins and needles waiting with bated breath.
"......Alright how about this? We'll get a pinpoint location and go scout out the area. Get a feel for it and silently check things out. If it's what we're looking for we'll leave and contact the others. If it's a busted lead then we'll just have to wait for another opportunity. Seem fair to you?"
The blue leader asked earning a nod of agreement before he was startled by a small and quick hug from the turtle currently looking over his shoulder.
"Absolutely! Understood Leo, now let's go!"
Mikey enthused somewhat already hoping off and making a head start towards the direction that Leonardo's TPhone had given. It didn't take long for said turtle to follow after him, a new feeling of hope alight in them. Yet the hopeful flame was but a shadow of what it could have been as the sense of uneasiness and caution took root within them. The trip to the location took about an hour to get to, the duo being silent the entire time as they quietly ran through the docks and crates and storage units. As they drew closer towards their destination, Mikey began to notice the crippling state of the storage units, once shiny and well kept now becoming more rusted and broken looking, painted in graffiti and broken windows. The box turtle felt a shiver rock his body as they finally came to the possible location of the energy surge. Standing before them was an old, abandoned fish factory. The factory was filled with broken windows and littered with trash, broken cargo boxes, crates and rotting wooden boards. A pier was next to it, the ancient wood having been eating away at by the weather and sea. Broken glass bottles and pieces of the windows scattered around the front of the factory, it's old metal doors closed tightly. The old street lamps that lit the place up were completely dark and dead, their bulbs either having decayed or exploded.
The sounds of the ocean once calming now sounded ominous and the silence that surrounded the building was over looming the entire area, as if deterring anything in the living world from coming near it. Mikey felt his heart clench in his chest, the excitement that was once there for the possible lead all but extinguished by the unsettling building before them.
"Hey, are you okay Mikey? You're shaking."
Leonardo's voice scratchy and soothing piped up next to the fourteen year old. Mikey didn't look away from the building as he answered his question.
"I'm fine, just a bit unsettled is all. This place has some major creep vibes to it."
He answered his light brown eyes never leaving the factory.
"........If you're sure you're okay. Let's just take a quick look around and get out of here yeah?"
The eighteen year old soothed gently rubbing the younger's shell in a reassuring manner. Mikey took a deep breath forcing himself to calm down.
'It's just a quick in and out. We aren't staying here long. Just a quick look over and then we leave.'
He told himself pulling it together and getting a grip before standing up a bit more straighter.
"Let's do this."
The box turtle said, determined to see this through. The older turtle gave him another long searching look before nodding in agreement.
"Alright then. Remember we move silently, and we stick together. No wandering off and if there's even a hint of a threat we try to avoid conformation unless it's absolutely necessary."
The older teen addressed making sure that the rules of their buddy system was remembered. With one last mental shove Mikey and Leonardo moved towards the building, silent as the grave before slipping through the doors and heading inside. As soon as Mikey stepped in he was hit with the scent of mold, rotting wood and stale sea salt and fish. The box turtle forced himself not to think too much about the smell, instead trying to get adjusted to the sudden darkness that greeted him and Leonardo. The sounds of water dripping onto the broken tiled floors and rusted metal staircases filled his ears. Feeling Leonardo's presence next to him and feeling his comforting touch on his arm, Mikey began to follow him further into the factory and into the darkness.
As the duo silently made their way through the abandoned building, and checking whatever they could for any sort of clues as well as tracking the energy surge's leftover signature, Mikey couldn't help but feel like he was reliving this entire experience all over again. Yet he couldn't for the life of him figure out why he felt this way. Instead he stuck close to Leonardo, refusing to leave his side as they began to search the upper floors of the factory, being careful not to make a sound or possibly fall off of the rusting stairs. Leonardo was looking at the TPhone once more, the bright screen having been turned down in its brightness so they wouldn't get caught.
"It says that the strongest point of the energy surge is at the top of the factory's floor. But I don't think it'll be safe enough to explore it given the condition of the place."
Leonardo said his voice barely above a whisper. Mikey gave a quiet hum of acknowledgement, happy that they wouldn't have to explore the rest of the upper floors. The box turtle was about to suggest something about exploring the lower levels of the place when the sudden loud sounds of the metal front doors creaking open filled the factory making both boys stiffen.
Someone was here.
Leonardo didn't hesitate to grab Mikey and drag them down silently to put them out of sight. The duo listened with bated breath as the front of the factory was filled with the somewhat lighter night outside and the sounds of footsteps echoing followed by voices filled the air.
"And you're positive that this will work?"
A voice masculine and old spoke into the darkness. Attached to it was a cloaked figure, his face and body shrouded in darkness and his hood. Next to him was a few men dressed in suits, each carrying something in their arms all except one who had it's chest open wide, exposing its innermost area. Sitting inside of the exposed chest was a strange pink creature with tentacle like limbs. It almost looked like a giant.......
"It's them, it's the Kraang. This must be a hideout."
Leonardo breathed making Mikey shiver a bit as he continued to look at the alien creature. There was something about it that was extremely unsettling and it made his skin crawl slightly looking at it.
"The ones who are known as Kraang can assure you that the Kraang's experiments will be successful. Thanks to the one known as Dr. Draxum, the Kraang's plans have been going well."
The Kraang replied. Mikey meanwhile sucked in a barely hidden breath as he felt his heart drop. Leonardo felt his sudden panicked unease, glancing over towards the younger teen only to see terrified brown eyes looking at him. In one look Leonardo knew that Mikey knew this Dr. Draxum and that there was some kind of relationship between him and this mysterious doctor.
'This just makes things even more complicated. Why would the Kraang take this Draxum?'
Leonardo pondered feeling like he was missing something extremely important.
"Excellent news. The master will be most pleased with this good news. He's been getting impatient with the lack of results from his experiments."
The hooded man said pleased with this. Mikey and Leonardo's attention was suddenly drawn away from the conversation when the loud sounds of metal slamming into the floor exploded throughout the factory. The Kraang and hooded man turned their attention towards the commotion just as the two turtles did. A large cage had been dropped partially onto the floor, the thing inside it letting out a raging, feral hissing screech, obviously not pleased with being dropped so suddenly.
"YOU FOOLS-! YOU KNOW THAT US KNOWN AS KRAANG CAN NOT AFFORD TO LOSE THE ONE WHO'S KNOWN AS DR. DRAXUM'S SUCCESSFUL EXPERIMENT-!"
The Kraang screeched angrily at its subordinates as it made its way to the cage to check out the damage. Mikey was pulled out of his staring by Leonardo's sudden pulling on his shell.
"We need to get out of here now."
Leonardo said. Mikey felt his heart stop at this and quickly gripped Leonardo's bicep.
"But-! They got Draxum-! We can't leave him here with them-! Leo-!"
Mikey began to hiss quietly and desperately only to be stopped by a gentle hand and an understanding gaze.
"And we will. But right now we don't know where he's at and if we get caught we'll be of no help to him. Now let's go."
Leonardo said silently urging Mikey to follow him quietly. Mikey gave him a conflicted look, his heart tearing into two as he fought with his heart and mind, before finally following behind Leonardo. The duo crouched down began to quietly make their way towards the back area of the factory, knowing that the front area was off limits. As the two turtles made their slow journey through the darkness, Mikey was suddenly greeted by a familiar stench. Flesh, rotting and decaying blood filled his nose, with the scent of mystic energy as well as an unfamiliar scent. Mikey covered his mouth fighting the sudden urge to hurl and nearly collapsed onto his knees startling Leonardo who had also caught wind of the horrific scent.
"Mikey-!"
Leonardo hissed terrified already going to help him back up when he froze, his dark blue eyes staring straight into the darkness.
"Mikey don't....move."
The blue leader said softly his gaze never leaving the darkness. The orange turtle froze at the command suddenly hyper aware of his surroundings. It didn't take long for the box turtle to figure out what was lurking in the darkness. The sounds of claws, sharp and long tapped along with the rusting metal platform they were on, a growling, feral hissing accompanying it. Mikey slowly turned his eyes towards the sounds and bit back the urge to vomit again in blatant fear. There standing only a few feet away from them was a monster. The creature was staring them down, its soulless, glowing eyes shining with crazed and murderous rage. Its body was rotting, a barely kept together project that would put Frankenstein's monster to shame. Blood as well as a strange greenish teal substance oozed out of its wounds. The monster stared at them, teeth bared as it drew closer to them. It didn't hesitate to lunge at them with a furious screech. Leonardo didn't even think, only reacted as he grabbed Mikey and flung them both out of the way. The sounds of their bodies hitting the rusting metal platform echoed in the factory and the sudden shouts of the Kraang screeched as they'd realized that something was in the factory other than them.
Their cover had been blown.
"MIKEY-! RUN-! NOW-!"
Leonardo's voice loud and cracking shook the box turtle out of his shock and sent him into autopilot. The duo went running, dashing down the platform as the monster hidden in the darkness pursued them. They ran through the darkness blindly before being forced to stop as the platform came to a stop, broken metal leading downwards into a dark hole that resided in the floor and into the lower levels of the building. Mikey and Leonardo turned back around towards the monster who now cornered them with a hissing snarl. Leonardo didn't hesitate to pull out his twin katanas and Mikey pulled out his nunchakus, already feeling that familiar mystic power flowing through him.
"Mikey, can you pull down that thing up there?"
Leonardo asked not daring to take his eyes off of the shadowed monster, as it drew closer waiting for it to strike. Mikey looked up to see a large box that was held by an ancient machine. Understanding what Leonardo was going for Mikey addressed it.
"Yeah, I can get it down!"
Mikey confirmed earning a hum of acknowledgement.
"Good, get it loose then. I'll distract this thing-! Now go-!"
The oldest Hamato commanded his tone leaving no room for arguments as he dashed towards the monster right as it began to go for the duo. The youngest Hamato was quick to respond, throwing his nunchakus out to wrap it around the large box and to get it loose. Once the chains were secured around it Mikey began to pull with everything he had. The sounds of claws meeting blades filled his ears and Mikey risked a glance to Leonardo to make sure he was okay. The blue clad leader was vicious in his fighting, his blades meeting the monster's claws with a deadly accuracy. The two clashed and fought, the creature managing to move gracefully despite its fearl like behavior. Mikey couldn't help but be stunned by Leonardo's skill, the oldest Hamato swinging his swords in a graceful manner, creating a deadly dance between him and this monster. Mikey shook himself out of his stunned stupor and continued to pull at the box, his nunchakus chains lighting up in their mystic flames to help get it loose. As Mikey pulled, fighting with everything he had the sudden violent shaking of the platform next to him nearly made him stumble. Snapping his head around Mikey let out a startled scream as another one of those things had jumped from the other platform onto his. The box turtle didn't have enough time to get his weapons free before the monster's sharp jagged claws swung downwards in an arch.
The fourteen year old didn't think, only acted as he flung his arm block it. It was instantaneous, the pain that flew up his left forearm, burning and raw hit him like a train. He felt the blood well up instantly and knew almost immediately that the creature had dug into the flesh of his forearm rather deeply, most likely hitting the bone. Mikey let out a pained scream of agony stumbling back a bit from it. Leonardo who was still fighting the other monster snapped his head around catching sight of Mikey who was now bleeding heavily and clutching his forearm and desperately trying to get the box free. The monster that attacked him went to strike him again, aiming for a killing blow this time......
Leonardo didn't think.
He moved on pure instinct.
Eyes flashing white Leonardo swung his sword down onto his opponent earning a pained scream and enough of a distraction for him to rush towards Mikey, his sharp black katanas raised and he swung downwards slicing the monsters arms clean off. A screech of fury echoed and the monster lunged at him, bleeding stale blood and greenish teal substances. Leonardo held his sword up, impaling the monster as it lunged for him and Mikey before kicking it over the side of the platform, the sounds of its dying body smacking off of the other lower platforms echoing. Leonardo panted his swords stained, his gaze turning to check and see if Mikey was okay only for the orange turtle's terrified scream to sound out.
"LEO BEHIND YOU-!"
The box turtle screamed. The older turtle whirled ready to fight when the monster with all its strength swung out its leg and slammed it straight into Leonardo's knee. The sounds of bones snapping out of place and the pained hissing snarl of agony from the blue clad turtle sounded out his injured knee forcing him to go down due to the bones. Leonardo braced himself for the monster to strike him when the sounds of the box finally breaking free and smashing into the monster's body, crushing it immediately filled the air. The platform they were on instantly began to crumble and suddenly the two were free falling straight towards the hole in the floor. Mikey felt his heart pound in his chest as the horrid sense of deja vu tore through him. He felt arms wrap around him.
"MIKEY TUCK IN YOUR SHELL NOW-!!"
Leonardo's voice shouted cracking harshly in his panic and fighting to be heard. The orange turtle tucked himself into his shell, his arm screaming in protest while Leonardo wrapped himself around the box shell turtle, as the blue and orange turtles disappeared into the darkness completely out of sight, the only thing coming from it being the loud sickening cracking noise of two shelled bodies hitting the ground.
~~~~~
Draxum stared at the wall of his cell, his golden eyes narrowed menacingly as he tried to think of a way to escape. The sheep yokai had been in this cell for a good while now, only allowed to leave it when those pink creatures or the hooded humans needed him in their lab. Having been dragged to this alternate place, he'd come to learn that the thieves who'd stolen his research where these aliens who called themselves the Kraang. The Kraang along with an unknown ally had been experimenting with his ooze recipe and mixing it with something called mutagen. Added with mystic energy and spiritual prowess it'd created those things that had attacked him on his way home. Draxum unconsciously ran his fingers over the jagged scars on his cheek, four claw marks from the ringleader behind it all.
'Insane fools. They're all insane the lot of them.'
He thought venomously. The sheep yokai hated the situation he found himself in, unable to really resist when all he'd get for it was hit or kicked around till he was a bloody broken mess of bruises and pain. Draxum rubbed at the newest injury he'd received for making a nasty remark to one of the hooded humans. The black and blue bruise throbbed as he recalled how the human had kicked him right in the ribs as hard as they could.
'When I get out of this cursed place I will make them regret everything they've ever done.'
He silently promised already planning his revenge on the pathetic aliens and humans who dared to kidnap him and then beat him. Draxum knew that these kinds of thoughts would mostly likely be frowned upon by the rat and his sons and the O'Neil girl but at this point in time he could care less about it. As he stewed in his mental musings the sounds of the metal doors to his cell made his ears perk. Draxum instantly tensed ready to attack anyone who so much as stepped an inch near him. A hooded figure stood at the door, their faced hidden in the shadows.
"The master has requested your presence Dr. Draxum."
The human feminine spoke gesturing towards the door so she could escort him to the master. Draxum glared wanting to tell her to burn in the seven hells when he realized what she'd said.
The master wanted to see him.
This was new. From the moment Draxum had been dragged here he'd never once met the master of these people. He'd only heard whispers of this elusive master and how he was in need of his scientific knowledge. While the sheep yokai wanted nothing more than to rebel against this woman he couldn't help but wonder if this could work out in his favor.
'Perhaps I can make this master let me go. If I can just get close to him and use my vines.....'
He thought already forming a plan of escape. Giving the hooded woman a sharp golden glare he stiffly followed her out of the cell. The two made their way towards the upper floors, passing by other hooded humans and ninjas with footprints on their backs. The hallways were filled with the same symbol, along with other oriental weapons and armor as they made their way through the corridors. After a few minutes of walking silently they stopped by a large door, the hooded woman bowing slightly.
"The master awaits you."
She said softly. Draxum gave her another glare already getting himself prepared for a fight as he slowly pushed open the doors. He barely stepped inside the room when he was grabbed and pinned down. Draxum began to struggle calling out his vines to get them off of him when the sound of something clipping around his neck filled his ears. Immediately after it was placed his mystic powers seemed to completely disappear, almost as if they'd never existed at all.
"What in the seven hells?!?! What have you placed on me you insolent fools-"
Draxum began to snarl, clawed hands going to rip into one of the people who'd held him down when a voice, familiar yet unfamiliar spoke up.
"It's a mystic powers removal collar. I thought it'd be needed once you were here and it seems that I was correct. I'll have to thank that spider for her sale, she wasn't lying when she said it'd do it's job."
The voice, accented and deep and somewhat rusty sounding made Draxum stiffen. He knew this voice, had heard it yell at him and get on his case about the boys and many other things. He'd heard it daily.
'Lou Jitsu......?'
He thought, suddenly extremely uneasy as he realized that while this voice was somewhat the same it had a much more menacing, crueler edge to it. Forcing himself up more from the ground to get a better look he was met with a mutant tiger. The mutant was large and imposing, sitting on the seat like he was made for it. One of his arms was made of metal and he was missing his tail and his gaze held nothing but pure disdain.
"I'm glad to have you here Dr. Draxum. Your expertise is severely needed in what I wish to accomplish."
The tiger said his voice low and rumbling like thunder.
"From this day forward I shall be your new master. You may call me Master Tigerclaw, leader of the Foot clan."
The mutant, Tigerclaw introduced himself. Draxum meanwhile froze.
'The Foot clan??? He's the leader of the Foot clan in this world?? But what about the Shredder???'
He thought his thoughts rushing a mile a minute as he sent a withering glare at the mutant.
"Like hell you're my master! I have no master and I will never give you what you ask for."
The sheep yokai snarled murderously. Tigerclaw just gave him a blank look before crouching down and harshly grabbing Draxum's face in between his fingers forcing him to look at him.
"Oh but I believe you will. After all Dr. Draxum......you don't have a choice in the matter."
Tigerclaw said staring straight into the sheep yokai's soul.
"You are going to obey me, otherwise that family of yours will no longer be apart of this world."
Tigerclaw continued making Draxum see red at the threat towards Splints and the boys.
"IF YOU SO MUCH AS-"
Draxum hissed in furious, murderous rage before he was cut off by a harsh yank.
"Just do as I say and no harm will come to them Dr. Draxum. Now........your first assignment......"
The Foot clan leader said letting go of Draxum's face and straightening himself up before heading towards a covered metal cage that sat quietly in the corner of the room. Draxum felt a sudden chill crawl up his spine as he watched Tigerclaw pull off the covering of the cage.........
The sudden dread and horror that hit the sheep yokai would never be able to describe the bombshell of emotions he'd felt at what Tigerclaw said next.
"Meet Hamato Yoshi. Or rather.......Master Splinter."
*Throws this bad boy down. I told y'all you were gonna hate me in the near future lol. I'm so sorry that this took so long, work and personal life have been going at me. Not to mention that I was literally struggling for like a month to make the this work (I ended up having to switch the dream sequence with the patrolling) and then Tumblr had deleted my draft so I had to rewrite it and writing for Kraang oof. Also I have a few Easter eggs in here if you figure them out you get a cookie. Yeah it's been extremely rough my friends but I hope that the wait was worth it. Anyways if any y'all read this I hope you enjoyed it!!*
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twstgabrielle 1 year
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Hi Gabrielle! 馃挄
Can I send ideas about your future Rottmnt x GF crossover fanfic with Leo x shy!fem!human! reader 脳 Donnie Triangle Love turned into Poly to your writing blog? Is that okay with you? 馃憠馃憟
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~馃
Yes! Of course you can! I apologize for not getting to this sooner!
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twstgabrielle 2 years
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Reading Guidelines and Warnings: The 2012 boys will be addressed by their full names unless they're referring to each other or speaking about one another. The Rise boys will be addressed via nicknames and other variations of said names. This fic will also have spoilers for both shows and will contain violence, language, crummy fights, injuries, blood, slight body gore and mentioned major character death. If any of this makes you uncomfortable I highly recommend that y'all check out my other works.
Despite what many thought, Leo was someone who was surprisingly an early morning riser. Given that he was either battling against a terrible bout of insomnia that made it hard for him to sleep to begin with or because of his internal clock telling him it was time to get up and face the day, Leo was almost always up before his brothers. Which was how the second eldest son had been the first one to be awake amongst the pile of turtles and blankets and pillows who had currently claimed the living room pit area as their sleeping area. Leo looked around at his sleeping family, the other three turtles all snuggled up against one another. Mikey was clinging to Donnie, his thin arms wrapped tightly around the soft shell's bicep. Donnie was snuggled up against him, his free arm touching Leo's forearm in his sleep. And wrapped around the three like a large protective blanket was Raph, the snapping turtle's large muscular arms wrapped around them in his sleep as he snored loudly.
Leo felt his heart melt at the sight of his brothers, sleeping peacefully for once instead of restlessly as they had been for the past few days. With a soft smile the slider gently and quietly slipped out of Raph's embrace and Donnie's touch, careful not to wake any of the other boys who were still in dreamland. After a bit of silent maneuvering Leo had finally managed to get free from the turtle pile and blankets. With a soft sigh Leo quickly and quietly left the living room pit area, the gentle sounds of his feet hitting the cement flooring being the only noise amongst the snoring and drippings of water from the sewer drains. Light blue eyes gazed around to see if there were any signs of anyone else awake so early in the morning when he'd caught sight of the dojo's doors cracked slightly open with soft candle lights flickering from the doorway. The red eared slider found himself making his way towards the dojo, almost as if someone was beckoning him to the room.
As silent as a shadow Leo stepped inside the dojo, instantly greeted by the familiar tatsumi matted floors and the large tree that sat somewhat imposingly in the middle of the room. Among the ceiling Japanese lanterns now alight with the soft glow of a candle from within was one of the only sources of light that painted the dojo. Gazing around the room Leo's eyes finally landed on the familiar shrine that sat within the corner of the room, the candles freshly lit and the incense now burning anew and filling the room with its soothing scents. Almost as if in a trance Leo with soft cautious footsteps made his way towards the shrine and with a somewhat hesitant bow he settled himself down onto his knees in front of it and bowed his head. The slider was silent for a moment, taking in the sobering ominous silence that seemed to ooze from the shrine dedicated to those who were dead. Leo's light blue eyes slowly took in the pictures once more, before finally stopping on the picture of Master Splinter and his serious yet kindly face that somewhat smiled back at him. A moment captured of a man who was no longer with the world of the living. Kind and mischievous brown hues bore into his light blue ones, forever frozen in time. The sixteen year old stared at this picture noting all the differences that this Master Splinter and his father had.
Leo swallowed a bit as the thoughts of his own father back home filled his head, recalling all the times when he heard his father's laughter or jokes and everything that made him, him. He thought about his father and how he'd suddenly out of the blue made him the leader, with no explanation as to why. Leo took a shaky breath and continued to look at the photo of this alternate version of the man who he loved dearly but at the same time who drove him crazy at times with his choices.
'Why did he choose me to begin with.....? I'm not strong like Raph, or smart like Donnie, nor talented like Mikey. I'm the face man, the jokester yet.......for some reason he made me the leader......'
Leo thought his hands tightening into fists a bit as he felt that familiar sense of confusion and slight nervousness whenever he'd thought about his father and his choice. He glanced at the picture and he couldn't help but wonder what this world's Master Splinter had been like, couldn't help but wonder if he was just as confusing and somewhat distant at times like his father. His mind wandered and then he found himself thinking about Leonardo his older counterpart. He thought about the confidence that he carried, the sense of reassurance in his place amongst his brothers and team. He thought about how he led his brothers and how they all looked up to him, about how at ease Leonardo seemed to be whenever he played the role of being the leader of his clan. It was no secret that his older doppelganger had obviously been the one in charge a lot longer than he had been, that the role that made Leo's skin crawl with unease and that made him feel all so lost was one that his older self played and commanded with an air of confidence and ease.
'Will I ever be like that.....? Will I too lead my brothers with that kind of confidence like Lee does? Is that why he was chosen to be the leader by Master Splinter? Why it seems like he was born to do this leader thing?'
Leo wondered before he finally glanced away from the picture and stared down at his hands. Leo had so many questions, so many questions about his role and how he could be a leader who was confident like his doppelganger in this world. So many questions that he wished to ask his father, so many things that he wished had been explained to him by the man who raised him. Without thinking about it Leo's mouth had began to open and speak up into the silence.
"I've never gotten the chance to meet you, never got the chance to speak with you nor get to know you. Yet......yet you're still my dad in a way, even if you're not really him. I know that this isn't your problem, that you have no obligation to me but I can't help but ask......why......?"
Leo said his voice soft and soothe and small as he stared at his hands.
"Why me....? What makes me and Lee so special for this whole leader gig....? Why did you choose him, choose me for this role.....?"
The slider asked feeling so lost in that moment as he asked the photo sitting on the shrine. At that moment it didn't matter to the younger Hamato that the man in the photo wasn't truly his father, but rather the fact that he was finally able to ask the questions that he'd been wanting to ask since the moment he and his brothers defeated the Shredder and had set free his soul that had been trapped in the armor. Since the moment when his father had given him this heavy burden completely unprepared.
"Da-Master Splinter........I wish I knew why you chose us for this........."
The blue jokester said his voice soft as he spoke to the shrine. He went quiet for a beat when he felt a presence join him in the dojo. The soft sounds of footsteps, light and airy stepping on the tatsumi mats and making their way towards him and the shrine filled his ears, and the light and gentle scent of herbal tea filled his nose as the person made themselves comfortable next to him. Leo didn't dare look over, already knowing who it was that had joined him in the dojo. Instead he kept his light blue gaze on the shrine of Master Splinter and spoke.
"How much did you hear.....?"
He asked voice a barely concealed whisper.
"......Enough."
A voice soft and rasping yet soothing and calming answered him. The younger teen took a deep breath, once again feeling that familiar wave of embarrassment hitting him as he was once again caught out in the open and read like an open book once more. Finally gathering the courage to tear his eyes away from the shrine he looked over to meet the concerned yet understanding gaze of Leonardo. The older turtle's dark blue eyes were filled with unreadable, his thoughts and emotions hidden from prying eyes. The two turtles just stared at one another, a silence building between them. The dojo was filled with their silence, neither seeming to know what to say to the other. Leo felt himself start to get a bit uncomfortable at Leonardo's seemingly knowing gaze, wanting nothing more than to have the floor swallow him whole at that moment.
"Spar with me."
Leonardo's voice suddenly broke the silence making Leo jump a bit.
"Huh?"
The younger blue clad turtle asked intelligently.
"Spar with me, it'll help clear the mind a bit. Besides, we need to warm up before training starts."
The older turtle said slowly getting up to go and stretch. The slider watched his older counterpart get up, a bit stumped by the sudden shift before snapping out of his stupor and getting up to join him. Leo stood up, confusion clouding his mind as to what Leonardo had planned. After the two had gotten done with their warm up stretches they faced one another awaiting for their warm up spar to begin.
"Rules, no weapons for right now, and the first one pinned down for five seconds is the winner of the round. Ready......Hajimeru-!"
Leonardo explained to the younger turtle who got into position himself. Once Leonardo said the word Leo moved, his body moving in a fluent motion to try and take the older doppelganger down. Arm swinging around to land a hit on the older turtle, Leo was taken by surprise when Leonardo blocked the hit, his own movements quick and graceful. After that the two went at it, hits and kicks and dodges and blocks flashing between them in quick and efficient movements. Leo couldn't help but be amazed by how fast Leonardo could move and dodge. And it seemed that he wasn't the only one who was amazed seeing as how Leonardo's eyes would flash with a look of awe or approval whenever Leo did something that took the older turtle off guard. The two continued doing this, hands and arms flying in a whirlwind of movements when Leo stepped to the side to avoid a hit, accidentally stepping a bit wrong on his retreat. Leo's leg went a bit shaky and he about stumbled however Leonardo was quick to take advantage of the moment of weakness and with a practiced ease swiped his leg at Leo's knocking him onto the dojo floor. Both blue clad turtles were panting slightly from the workout as Leonardo stepped forward to help Leo up from the floor.
"You did amazing, though your footwork could use a bit of work."
Leonardo said his tone professional and somewhat critical however it was the kind of critical that a Sensei would use to help teach others rather than put them down. Leo reached out to the outstretched hand and let himself be hauled up onto his feet.
"Ah yeah, I don't usually lose my footing like that. I'll work on it though."
Leo said offering Leonardo a small smile. Leonardo gave him a small smile back and let go of his hand.
"Practice makes perfect. If you don't mind me asking.....how long have you been training?"
The older Hamato asked curiosity leaking through his tone.
"A few years, give or take. Me and my brothers started to actually train in the art of ninjutsu when I was......fourteen? Fifteen years old?"
The younger Hamato explained recalling the early days of his and his brothers early adventures and training sessions. The younger turtle couldn't help but internally cringe as he remembered his less than graceful moments during battles, and how he had tried to mimic his movie star hero Lou Jitsu. Leonardo's eyes went wide with an a surprised yet impressed look.
"A few years? I couldn't even tell, your technique is really good I'd thought for sure that you'd been training longer than that."
The blue leader said amazed. Leo couldn't help but preen at the praise, a smirk on his face.
"Really now? I'm guessing that you've been training a long time huh?"
The blue jokester asked earning a nod of confirmation from the older turtle.
"Yes, me and my brothers have been training since we were five years old. But this is a good thing, it'll make training for you and your brothers much more easier knowing that you all are fast learners."
Leonardo said his brain already collecting the information that he had received from his younger counterpart. Meanwhile Leo's eyes went to the size of dinner plates, stunned by the information he had learned.
'Five years old????? Holy pizza supreme that's like what nearly several years of experience????? Holy shell that's insane??????'
The thoughts flew around in his head as he looked at Leonardo in a new light, a feeling of admiration filling him for this older turtle that was him.
'If he's been training for so long does.....does that mean.....'
The thought echoed making him pause, without thinking about it his mouth disconnected from his brain.
"Wait so you've been the leader since you were five years old???"
The slider blurted out in bafflement before stiffening in mortification at having voiced his question out loud. The leader of the Hamato clan paused his own mental musings his dark blue hues snapping to the younger turtle beside him.
"Huh? Oh, no I haven't been the leader for that long. I had became the leader of our team when I was fifteen years old."
The older turtle answered honestly as the younger turtle processed. Leonardo was only a year younger than him when he had become the leader of his brothers. It was shocking considering how Leonardo and his brothers reacted with one another.
"Fifteen?? But you.....you seem like you've been doing this for ages!"
Leo said baffled and confused. Leonardo gave him a small look.
"Well-"
He'd began to say but Leo had accidentally interrupted him.
"How?? How do you make it look so easy when you've been doing this for such a short time???? Aren't you scared??? Lost???? Don't you ever feel anxious knowing that your brothers lives are in your hands and that if you screw up one time you could get them hurt or worse???? How do you do it Lee????"
Leo asked his tone becoming rushed as he somewhat blurted out some of his most inner fears. By the time he was done he was panting slightly his eyes wide and full of so many conflicting emotions that it gave Leonardo whiplash. The older turtle just quietly and patiently waited for Leo to calm down a bit, his expression careful but more open than it'd ever been. A gentle hand touching the back of Leo's shell made the slider pause, the soft vibrations of Leonardo's fingers tapping in a rhythm on the teal and yellow shell sinking into his body and making it relax. After a few moments of this Leonardo finally spoke to his younger doppelganger.
"To be honest with you Leo.......I'm terrified of being the leader. Even after doing this job for nearly four, five years I'm still completely lost on what to do. I still find myself wondering if I'm really cut out for this and if each day will be the day when everything goes straight to hell. I may seem calm and confident in what I'm doing but Leo......I'm far from it."
Leonardo said his voice soft and gentle, ringing with a honesty that made Leo quietly listen.
"Being the leader it's a terrifying job to do. And no matter how long you do it, there'll will always be that lingering anxiety and uncertainty about whether or not you're making the right decisions. But........if I learned anything in my years of being the leader of my brothers......it's that I got to trust myself and my instincts and learn from the mistakes I might make. That I not only have to trust myself but my team as well."
The eldest Hamato said softly his eyes zeroed in on the younger Hamato. Leo felt himself freeze in his older counterpart's intense stare, his heart stopping in his chest as he really looked at the older turtle. In that moment Leo finally saw through the tight walls and intersecting mirrors that Leonardo kept up. Now standing before him was a teenager who was lost just like him, who had no clue on what he was doing. Now looking back at him Leo couldn't help but realize that he was staring directly into a reflection of himself.
And it was terrifying.
"I know that you're lost right now but trust me when I tell you that even with all this uncertainty, you'll be okay. And you're not the only one who's been through this, my brother Raph has been through it too. And in fact your Raph has experienced this very thing as well has he not?"
Leonardo asked making Leo pause.
"I know that it's hard asking for help, but it's okay to do so. And I know without a shadow of a doubt that your brother as well as myself will help you out with this. You only need to ask."
The blue clad leader said tapping the younger blue turtle's shell once more. The blue jokester could only stand there and absorb what he was told, confused by it yet also feeling a bit of the pressure being taken off of his shoulders. Then he paused as he realized something.
"Wait a minute......Raph? Your brother Raph?"
Leo asked confused and disbelieving. Raphael from what he'd seen in the short time they'd been in this lair, did not seem like the type of person to be a leader. In fact he seemed rather cold and distant and not at all an approachable person. Leo tried to imagine the short angry red clad turtle as the leader and couldn't help but make a face unconsciously. Leonardo's amused chuckles filled the dojo drawing Leo's attention back to him.
"I know it sounds strange but trust me. Raph definitely knows how you're feeling. Now, let's go another round of practice before our brothers join us."
Leonardo said rubbing Leo's shell reassuringly before removing his hand and getting himself ready for the next warmup round. The slider stared for a brief moment before finally stepping out of his confused and dazed stupor and went to join his older counterpart, the blue leader's words ringing in his head.
'You'll be okay.'
'If only I could believe it.'
Leo thought before getting back into position to do another warmup.
~~~~~
Leonardo sat down by the tree in the dojo, his eight students now joined in the room with him. After his and Leo's conversation the two blue turtles had did another round before Leonardo had called for a break. It was only a half hour later that the rest of the lair had slowly began to awaken with them, the sounds of sleepy mumbles or grumbles filling the once silent morning. Michelangelo had made them a light breakfast with the help of his newest kitchen partner Mikey and all too soon the eight turtles were eating and getting themselves more awake. Leonardo had gotten his cup of medical tea that Donatello had made him the night before, sipping on it to help soothe his throat and vocal chords knowing that he'd need them today. Donatello himself in his grouchy morning mood had grabbed his usual cup of black coffee nearly inhaling its contents while Raph watched all of this in blatant big brother concern.
Once they were finished with their breakfast dishes had been placed in the sink and the group had began to make their way towards the dojo to begin the training sessions. It was about twenty to thirty minutes later when April had finally made her entrance into the lair and came to join them, her black and yellow jumpsuit carrying her bladed fan on her hip. And now there they were currently, with the eight students quietly waiting for Leonardo to get started. Flickering his dark blue gaze over the group Leonardo took a deep breath and spoke.
"Welcome to our training session. Me and my clan welcome our guests and are very pleased to have you join us this morning. Before we begin I'd like to see what each of you have skill wise, so we can all get a feel for what each of us can do. I'll pair each of you up with one another and we'll go from there."
The Hamato clan leader said his voice strong and sharp, resembling his deceased master more than he realized. He was met with nods or chimes of agreement giving them a nod of satisfaction. Leonardo looked around the room to choose before he began to pair them up.
"Donatello and Raph you're up."
Leonardo said watching as his younger brother stood up from the tatsumi matted floor, his reddish brown gaze full of focus and determination. Raph on the other hand looked a bit nervous as he stood up, his large hulking figure towering a bit over Donatello who was only a few inches shorter than the larger red turtle. The two turtles went to stand in the middle of the dojo, standing facing one another as they waited for Leonardo to give the signal to start the practice sparring. The others sat against the wall near the tree, watching with curiosity and anticipation to see them spar. Donatello got into position, his bo staff within his grip as he spung it within his hands to get himself ready. Raph hesitantly took out his sais, his dark green eyes unsure.
"Don't worry too much about me big guy. Just focus on the fight."
Donatello piped up making Raph look at him.
"Raph ain't worried. He's got this in the bag."
The snapping turtle responded however the thin sheen of sweat gave away his nerves.
"Remember, this is a practice spar, which means that your main objective is to either pin your opponent and keep them there for at least five seconds or to knock their weapon from their hands. Are we clear?"
Leonardo asked the two earning nods from them. Satisfied the eldest turtle raised his hand into the air and swung it down.
"Hajimeru!"
He said in a loud and clear voice, only cracking it slightly at the end. As soon as Leonardo gave them the go Donatello was already moving. The tall turtle moved fast, his bo staff spinning at a quick speed as he swung it at the large snapping turtle. Raph barely managed to move out of the way, the tails of his red bandana moving slightly from the after wind of the bo staff's projectory. Raph however wasn't quick enough to miss the second swing of the wooden staff and the loud smack of the bo staff hitting him in the side filled the dojo.
"Ow-!"
Raph hissed surprised by how much that actually hurt. However he didn't dwell on it as he again dodged Donatello's staff. The tall purple genius flashed him a gap toothed smile his eyes full of a fiery focus.
"I told you, don't worry about me. Focus on the fight."
Donatello said again repeating his earlier statement. Raph now realizing that he didn't need to completely hold back with the older turtle was quick to get over his nerves and a spark of competitiveness flashed in his gaze, a much more confident snaggletoothed grin on his face.
"Alrighty then, Raph heard you. Let's do this!"
The younger larger turtle said before launching himself at the other turtle. Raph flung his arm out, his sai slamming into the side of Donatello's staff in a flash of red sparks. Donatello stumbled a bit from the sudden boast of strength Raph had, eyes widening in a fascinated way. The two continued to spar, Raph now taking it much more seriously and Donatello managing to land a few hits on him. The large snapping turtle only used a bit of his mystic powers, not wanting to completely destroy the dojo by accident yet it was clear from the flashes of red sparks that appeared around his arms and sais that he was having an extra kick to his usual strength. It surprised the younger turtle how well Donatello could keep up with him even with the mystical aspect.
'He's a fighter, wouldn't expect anything else from my little brother.'
Raph thought a feeling of pride welling up in him as he blocked Donatello's staff with his sais. The two duked it out, trying to disarm the other with their strengths however it was clear who the strongest of the two were. Raph with a huff and a quick movement twisted his sais to the side, somewhat dragging Donatello a bit before he was forced to let go of his staff least he had his arms yanked out of their sockets. The clattering of the bo staff hitting the ground filled the dojo and Leonardo's voice followed shortly afterwards.
"Yame! The winner of the first sparring practice is Raph."
The blue clad turtle said. Raph preened a bit and Donatello smiled, going to pick up his discarded staff and with a pat to the snapping turtle's large bicep the purple genius spoke.
"Ya did great, congratulations."
The older turtle said obviously impressed by Raph. The younger turtle turned his dark green eyes to the other turtle and gave him a large grin.
"Thanks man, you were pretty awesome yourself. I wasn't expecting you to be so quick."
Raph said his tone full of praise and respect towards the other turtle. Donatello seemed to grow flustered and the two began to speak quietly to each other as they made their way back to their seats on the floor. Leonardo watched them picking up snippets of Donatello's voice questioning Raph on his mystics and how he used them, forever the curious one amongst them.
'Glad to know that he's getting along with the others as well.'
Leonardo thought pleased. Turning his attention back towards the others Leonardo once again picked a pair.
"Next up is Michelangelo and Donnie."
The older turtle said earning a happy woop from the youngest of his family. Michelangelo practically bounced up from his spot, his baby blues alight with excitement. Donnie on the other hand looked less than happy to be sparring, his expression pinched up a bit letting those around him know that he would rather be in the lab then here. The two like the last pair stood to face each other waiting for Leonardo to begin their match. Michelangelo bounced a bit on his toes shooting Donnie a beaming smile.
"Good luck Dee!"
The orange turtle chirped happily while the purple soft shell just gave him a small huff.
"Luck has nothing to do with the logistics of the outcome of this session."
Donnie replied tone blunt. Michelangelo blinked at him for a beat before shrugging it off not too bothered by it. Leonardo again raised up his hand before swinging it downwards.
"Hajimeru!"
He called out and the next match began. Donnie grabbed his staff already going to get ready to attack.
'If I'm quick about this then I've got a 40% better chance of winning this, all I gotta do is just get the swing right and the hit-'
Donnie's thoughts whizzed through his head as he swung the bo staff, which had changed into a glowing electrical purple hammer. However what the soft shell seemed to forget to add within his genius battle tactic was one very important detail.
He was fighting Michelangelo.
Who was this world's Mikey.
His wild and sporadic and unpredictable little brother.
Many years later Donnie would still remember the moment where he rather foolishly underestimated the older orange turtle, as he swung his mystic weapon only to have it hit nothing but air. Donnie's eyebrows went straight up his forehead, his dark brown eyes wide in a startled manner.
"Wait-! Where did he-?"
The soft shell began to question when he was suddenly grabbed by the foot with a metal chain of the nunchaku, before he was pulled quite literally off of his feet for a brief moment.
"BOOYAKASHA-!!!"
Michelangelo's voice full of glee and mischief cried out from behind him as the soft shell went down with a yelp of startlement. Donnie was stunned as he realized that the older turtle had managed to get behind him without him even noticing it and was now currently beating the purple genius with his spazz like behavior and fighting style.
'Oh fuck sakes he's a Mikey ugh how could I have forgotten that???'
Donnie berated himself as he managed to get out of the nunchakus's chains and get back onto his feet quickly before the five second period. With a quick movement he flung his mystic bo staff up to avoid getting grabbed once again by the chains, dodging Michelangelo's wild yet scarily accurate attacks. The soft shell quickly rolled onto his side as he again dodged the chains, panting slightly from having to move so quickly in such a short amount of time. Michelangelo was relentless and his attacks were a combination of what seemed like several different styles. It made it difficult to pin down just what the orange clad turtle was planning to do next and Donnie couldn't help but feel slightly stupid for not taking the possiblity of Michelangelo being like his own little brother into account. Then again Michelangelo while chipper and somewhat naive like his own baby brother, he himself seemed a lot more calmer than Mikey. More laid back in a way. It was because of this laid back and somewhat calmer attitude that Donnie had unknowingly underestimated the older turtle and now he was severely regretting it.
The session continued on with the two being evenly matched even though Donnie was having a somewhat difficult time adjusting to the patterns of Michelangelo's fighting given how they were quite literally wild cards with each new move. The soft shell went to swing his bo staff again, stepping forward to strike Michelangelo and managing to graze his shell. Michelangelo let out a startled yelp at the contact and went to again strike out his nunchakus making contact with Donnie's staff, making purple sparks of an electronic like nature burst from it. The two at the same time moved in different directions to try and disarm the other, before both weapons went flying out their grips the sounds of the weapons hitting different areas of the dojo sounding out. April's startled gasp and Raphael's cursing filled the dojo as Leonardo watched Michelangelo's nunchakus fly straight over the duo's heads, nearly taking them out. Donnie's bo staff meanwhile had went flying towards Leo and Mikey the two turtles letting out shouts of fear as they ducked to avoid getting slammed with the mystical bo staff turned hammer. Shocked silence filled the dojo as Donnie and Michelangelo stared at one another in slight mortification at the damage they nearly caused. Leonardo took a deep breath to try and calm his somewhat racing heart.
"Yame. The match is a tie."
Leonardo said his voice sounding somewhat exhausted already. Michelangelo gave him a sheepish smile before turning to Donnie.
"Well that's one way to end a sparring session. You were awesome dude!"
Michelangelo said his tone full of awe as he addressed the soft shell. Donnie blinked a bit and with somewhat awkward fumbling to try and mentally catch up with the insanity that had just occurred.
"But of course I am, though I must say that you're not so bad yourself."
Donnie said earning a sparkly eyed look from the older orange turtle. The two went back to their seats still on the rush of their sparring session. Leonardo mentally sighed.
'Next time, safe proof the dojo. Got it.'
Leonardo mentally noted for him to get to later before calling out the next sparring pair.
"Next pair, Raphael and Leo."
The older turtle called out. Leo was quick to get up from his seat on the floor, a somewhat cocky and confident aura around him. Raphael still somewhat peeved from nearly getting his head taken off by the earlier stunt got up as well, grumbling the whole time. The two faced one another, bright toxic green meeting light blue as they awaited their que.
"Hajimeru!"
Leonardo's voice filled the dojo and the match began. Leo grabbed his twin katanas, the pulsating blue sparks of his mystic powers bursting to life. Raphael grabbed his sais and lunged at Leo, his movements fast and furious. Leo quickly dodged the hits aimed at him, his swords blocking the sais from making contact with his skin. With ease Leo summoned his portal and stepped through it, disappearing from view.
"What the actual fuck??? Where did he?????"
Raphael asked with a growl instantly alert, his eyes flickering around the dojo. It didn't take long before the red clad turtle was met with a kick to his side, making him stumble a bit. Wheezing Raphael's gaze snapped towards the direction where the kick came from to see the somewhat smug smile of Leo.
"Are you gonna come and get me?"
The slider asked his voice challenging a bit. Leo couldn't help but get a bit competitive, wanting to see just how skilled Raphael actually was. After all this short turtle was a version of his big brother, and Raph was a fierce fighter. So he wanted to know if it applied to Raphael as well. The red eared slider didn't have to wait long before Raphael made his next move, his eyes narrowed in a somewhat annoyed manner at the challenge Leo had sent to him.
"You're gonna regret asking me to come and get you."
Raphael said in a growl as he swung his leg up to kick the younger blue turtle. Leo again made a portal and disappeared through it, barely missing getting kicked in the face by the shorter turtle. The two continued to do this furious and fast dance, Leo disappearing into his portals in the nick of time, barely avoiding Raphael's powerful hits and kicks within his direction. However it only lasted for so long before Leo had made a mistake. With each dodge Leo admittedly grew a bit more cocker with each success that he'd forgotten to actually keep an eye on Raphael. Raphael unlike Raph had speed and agility on his side, what the short red clad turtle lacked in the height and build department he made up for it with flexibility and strength. Which was how in the end he had ended up getting the drop on the younger turtle, who hadn't predicted that Raphael would catch on to him and his portals. Leo reappeared from one, ready to again land a hit on Raphael only to instead be met with Raphael and his sais which had blocked the glowing blue twin katanas. Leo let out a squawk of sorts having been taken by surprise and that moment had ended up costing him as he was quite literally with his glowing swords still trapped within Raphael's sais was yanked forward and in a ironic moment of deja vu he found himself once again thrown over a body and being slammed right into the dojo floor. Leo let out a wheeze, winded and dazed by the force Raphael used. Unlike with Leonardo's, Raphael obviously was the strongest of the older turtles and Leo was now feeling it straight down to his bones.
'Holy hell I thought Lee's throw was painful but holy fuck Raphael's is straight up murderous.'
Leo thought as he pushed himself up with his elbows to be met with a sai pointed at him. Raphael was staring him down, a somewhat smug look on his face.
"Told ya you'd regret telling me to come and get you."
The short turtle said a bit of snark leaking into his tone. Leo just blinked before a small amused smirk came upon his face.
"Yep you did and I can honestly say that I really am regretting it."
Leo responded, before Leonardo's voice brought his attention back to the dojo.
"Yame! The winner of this match is Raphael."
Leonardo said his voice rasping slightly. Leo went to get up when he caught sight of Raphael putting his sais away and then holding out a hand to help the red eared slider up from the floor.
"I don't usually say this kind of thing but you're one hell of an opponent kid."
Raphael said gruffly. Leo blinked as he grabbed the extended hand and was yanked up from the floor nearly falling forward from the strength of the momentum of said yank. Raphael caught him by the back of his shell and Leo felt himself grow embarrassed as he realized that this was the third time since he'd been in this world that he'd kissed the dojo floor.
"Thanks, you're pretty tough opponent too Short Stack."
Leo said honestly before biting back a snicker at Raphael's annoyed glare.
"Don't call me that."
The older red clad turtle said letting Leo go and going back to his seat on the dojo floor. The younger blue clad turtle just watched in slight amusement before going to take his own seat. Leonardo who had been watching them nearly sagged with relief. He'd been worried that an actual fight would break out between Raphael and Leo and that was the last thing he had wanted. The eldest turtle caught movement from the corner of his eye and noticed that Raph had also seemed to look relieved as well.
'Looks like I'm not the only one who has to worry about that kind of thing.'
Leonardo mused before finally speaking up again to call out the last pair for their practice session.
"Next is April and Mikey."
The eldest Hamato called out watching as the two got up to take their places. Mikey much like Michelangelo seemed to be buzzing with excitement however he also seemed a bit nervous to be going up against April.
"I just want to say that I'm sorry if I accidentally hurt you."
Mikey said wanting to get the apology out there to let April know that he was sorry should anything happen. April just shot him a small smile her eyes twinkling with a hidden secret.
"Don't worry, I'll be just fine."
The red head said reassuringly earning a warm smile in return. Leonardo held up his hand one last time and swung it down to signal the start of the match.
"Hajimeru!"
The shout sent the two into action. Mikey moved quickly, his nunchakus already out and crackling with bright orange mystics. With a quick swing the nunchakus lashed out towards April, bright orange flames bursting from the chains and head. April launched herself to the side quickly, her eyes wide with shock before she quickly pulled herself together and made her move. With a sense of ease she lunged for Mikey, dodging his weapons attacks with her quick and nimble movements. Quick as a flash she grabbed her fan, and swung it at the box turtle, the speed of it making the lethal blades sing. Mikey threw himself backwards to avoid being cut, a startled yelp coming out of him.
"Holy shell April you're fast!"
Mikey said awed by her speed. April just smiled and again went to strike.
"You're pretty quick on your feet as well Mikey!"
She responded back using her fan to block Mikey's nunchakus from striking her. The battle session continued on, the two smaller members of the dojo moving quickly and effectively, neither of them tiring nor wanting to back down. Leonardo and the others watched, awed and focused solely on the training session, just as they had been for the others. Mikey was quick, his movements more wild than his older counterpart's but yet just as difficult to pin down. April however kept up rather well despite how unhinged the fighting style was. Mikey swung his weapon once more the orange flames bursting to life. April barely missed getting hit by it, her ponytail barely avoiding being set on fire. The red head moved towards him, her fan again swinging out at him as she dodged and piered the box turtle's quick and chaotic attacks. They were evenly matched with one another and either of them seemed to be able to get the upper hand on one another. So much so that Leonardo finally decided to close the session down.
"Yame! The match ends in a tie."
The leader said as the two opponents lowered their weapons and stepped away from one another.
"Girl, your moves were sick! You gotta teach me how to move like that!"
Mikey said already cornering April somewhat as he gushed over her moves. April smiled at him and gently patted his head fondly.
"I'll teach you what I can if you agree to teach me how to do those flips you did. Those were out of this world."
April chirped earning a tight hug from the youngest turtle. Soon after they were all seated back in front of Leonardo who smiled at them with a bit of pride.
"You all have done well. At the rate we're going we'll be more than prepared to infiltrate the Kraang base once we've located them. Till then we'll keep training and learning about one another. For the rest of our training sessions I'll show you all different sutras and fighting stances and we'll try and correct anything that might need to be."
The Hamato clan leader said earning five shouts of.
"Hai Sensei!"
And four nods of agreement. Leonardo stared at the group in front of him, as they all went to get set up. Standing up himself to help them with their lessons Leonardo took a deep breath to prepare himself and joined his family in their training.
~~~~~
The city was quiet, which was surprising considering that New York as well as the Mystic City was always incredibly loud. There was always something going on in the bustling city, whether it was people yelling or cars and buses honking or music playing loudly from restaurants and other establishments or on rarer cases yokai running amok and reeking havoc on unsuspecting humans. So when Draxum had stepped out of his lab that evening and he had been greeted by nothing but an eerie silence the sheep yokai had instantly been on edge. Glancing around him Draxum locked up his lab, making sure that his newest security system was well and working. The purple one had explained the basics to him when it'd been installed nearly a month ago, when his lab had been broken into. He hadn't found out about the break in till he'd made his journey to do some research on a few things, such as the random bursts of mystic energy that had been happening on and off.
When he'd went to his lab it'd been turned upside down, his work and other instruments he used for his work overturned or ruined. It had been an absolute disaster, especially when he'd realized that some of his files had been stolen. Once he'd realized this he'd gotten in touch with his orange son and his family and they'd quickly came to help. His sons had checked the place all around yet they couldn't find even a clue as to who could have broken into his lab or had stolen his files. And while he usually would let those kinds of things go if they didn't have any leads, he couldn't simply drop this matter, because the files that had been stolen were critical. So critical in fact that if they'd gotten into the wrong hands it could quite literally spell disaster for everyone.
They were the files that contained all of his research regarding his creation of the ooze and the creation of his sons.
And they'd been stolen.
After that night his sons had been searching for any leads while also upgrading his security, hence why he was now currently making sure everything was in order. Once he was certain that things were in order and everything was locked up Draxum began to make his way into the Mystic City to head to the sewers. Reaching around in his robe pocket he pulled out the cellphone that the human April insisted he get and was greeted by a few strings of texts from three numbers.
The Rat: I've checked every part of the sewers that I could think of and still no sign of the boys. Let me know if you came across anything.
The O'Neil Human: Draxum, just wanted to let you know an update on the search. I've searched NYC as much as I possibly could and I've found nothing. Hoping that you're doing better in your search.
The Jones Human: Sir, I've come to report that there's no signs of the turtles. I will update you should I come across anything new.
Draxum gripped his phone a bit as he read the messages and their unhopeful news. The sheep yokai stared at the bright screen, his mind wandering as he recalled the last time he'd seen the boys. Back when he'd had that break in a few weeks back and his research had been stolen and his lab destroyed.
'Three weeks, the turtles have been missing for three weeks. Leaving nothing behind as to even hint at their whereabouts. Three weeks of searching and coming up with nothing.'
The sheep yokai thought a bit of frustration coming up within him. It was rare for him to feel like this, to feel helpless and frustrated. Yet it was a feeling well warranted given that the boys have been missing for nearly a month now. Draxum took a deep breath, running a hand through his hair mindlessly before responding to the messages letting them know that he too had no new news to give to the search. Pocketing his phone back into his pocket the scientist continued his walk towards his destination, trying to not let the ominous silence of the city get to him. He didn't have time to be worrying about it, since he had more important issues to deal with. Such as his research in the mission to find the boys. Draxum when the boys had vanished had noticed that the mystic energy surges which had been nothing but measly and not too dangerous to worry about had spiked suddenly within the span of two or three weeks and then on the night the turtles had went out on their routine patrol the energy surges had reached the highest levels they'd ever reached.
And Draxum knew that that was no mere coincidence.
So he'd spent countless hours learning everything he could, gathering each little piece of data that he hadn't paid attention to and he'd discovered a few things. The energy surges were of mystic origins, yet they also weren't which made them extremely hard to pinpoint when they'd occur next. They'd started about nearly a year ago, shortly after the defeat of the Shredder and setting his trapped soul free from the demonic armor. And it had only been recently that the surges had gotten stronger than they were. Those little details alone made Draxum all the more sure that they were somehow connected to the boys and their disappearance.
'The question is how are they connected and are they going to happen again?'
Draxum thought as he walked thinking about the days research. It didn't have much other than an increase in the surges once more and Draxum wanted to get to the lair to let that rat, Splints know about it. As the scientist walked through the dark mystic streets the silence seemed to shift around him and Draxum suddenly froze in his tracks his senses high on alert. With flickering ears the sheep yokai listened and realized with a small blooming sense of dread that the silence was so overbearing that he couldn't even hear the sounds of the bugs that usually crawled along the ground. Instead the atmosphere was tense, the surrounding areas around him deathly silent as if they were afraid to make a sound. As if they were waiting for something to happen. Draxum felt his body stiffen up as the sudden feeling of being watched filled him. Yellow eyes flickering around him he carefully scanned his surroundings, on the look out for anything out of the ordinary. He remained quiet and still for a long time, waiting with bated breath for something, anything to happen as the feeling of being watched grew by the second. His inner warning bells were screaming at him, telling him to leave and get out of the open. Before he even realized it he was already moving, his mystic powers bubbling up and ready to unleash his thorny vines on the possible threat.
The scientist walked his speed increasing in urgency as he tried to get away.
'Almost there, just a bit further and I'll finally get rid of this foolish paranoia-'
The thought was cut short as Draxum felt something strike him from the side, sending him flying into the nearby wall of one of the buildings harshly. Draxum let out a gasping wheeze stunned by the sudden attack. The sheep yokai struggled to get himself together and summoned his vines to protect himself when his nose was suddenly greeted with the most disgusting scent he'd ever come across.
It was strong, filled with the crackling scent of yokai magic, yet it was different. Alternated and mutilated, and surrounded by the scent of rotting flesh and drying blood. It was the scent that accompanied death, both mortal and yokai alike. A horrific amalgamation of the two. Draxum fought back the urge to vomit gritting his teeth together as he forced himself to stand up and prepare for a fight however he froze when he felt the vines start to be torn apart, the phantom sensation of sharp teeth and claws chewing their way through his shield filling him with a sudden terror he'd never experienced before. Draxum didn't think only responded on instinct as he swung his arm out causing the vines to do the same as they slammed into another wall. The sounds of bones breaking and an otherworldly screech of fury and pain sounded out into the night, rattling the sheep yokai down to his very bones.
Forcing himself to get a grip Draxum made the vines tighten on the thing and with a livid and cold stare turned his attention towards the lump of vines that had that thing that attacked him currently trapped.
"Whoever you are, you've just made a grave mistake."
The sheep yokai hissed teeth bared threateningly as he glared at the wall waiting for any signs of life. Draxum barely had time to prepare himself and the sudden sounds of vines ripping apart and that phantom sensation of chewing teeth tearing through them filled the air around him and out popped out the thing that had attacked him. What he saw made his blood freeze within his veins.
The thing no.....the monster was a moving corpse. It's eyes were glowing with mystic energy and its flesh was grey and reeked of death and rot and blood. But that wasn't what scared Draxum about this reanimated corpse no......
It was the sludge that was coming out of its body.
Bright green and glowing, yet with shaded parts of teal oozed out of the monster, mixed in with the scent of blood. It was a sludge he'd recognize anywhere.
After all he'd been the one to create the bright glowing green ooze.
The teal mixture however was something completely different yet seemed to be very similar. And it made him uneasy seeing it.
"What in the seven hells.....?"
He breathed shaken by the creature he now had trapped however he didn't get a chance to dwell on the horror show he had trapped within his grasp, because the next thing he knew he was being hit straight across the face, claws digging into his cheek and cutting it deeply. The scent of blood, his blood filled the already death filled air as he was thrown off of his feet. Draxum let out a livid pained hiss turning to see who had done the deed.
"Baron Draxum, we've been looking for you. And now you're coming with us."
The voice said in a hiss, cruel and cold. Before the sheep yokai could gather his bearings he was met with the heel of the kidnapper's boat and the world was shrouded in darkness.
*Cliffhanger whoops. The plot it's thickening lads! Just what exactly is going on? What exactly is this reanimated corpse monster and who had created it?? And who was the mystery person who took Draxum??? Find out next time on Dragon Ball Z-!!!! Jokes aside I've been wanting to get this plot going and now we're in the beginning stages fam!!!! Fair warning though y'all might hate me when it's all said and done lmfao. Anyways if any y'all read this I hope you enjoyed it!!!*
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twstgabrielle 2 years
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Yo I just wanna get mushy with y'all and say thank you for reading my fic, A Universal Collision and for all the reblogs and likes on here and all the kudos and bookmarks and comments on ao3. Like it seriously makes my day knowing that there are people out there who enjoy my silly little crossover fic and who look forward to seeing where it goes and knowing that y'all enjoy it just as much as I enjoy writing it makes the whole experience of sharing a self indulgent project all the more enjoyable. I know that I've said thank you to y'all a few times but I seriously want y'all to realize how much it actually means to me like it blows my mind each and every time.
So thank you for everything y'all. :)
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twstgabrielle 2 years
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Forgot to share this to my writing blog!!!
Me gets a email notification from some of my fanfics: Oh cool I'll go check it out and see what's up.
Webpage loads
Me: Okay let's see what I got-
Me:.....eh....?
Webpage:
Tumblr media
Me:......there's......there's gotta be some mistake how the hell-
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twstgabrielle 2 years
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Reading Guidelines and Warnings: The 2012 boys will be addressed by their full names unless they're referring to each other or talking to one another. The Rise boys will be addressed by their nicknames and other variations of said names. Also this fic contains spoilers for both shows as well as language, straining/mentioning injuries and fights. If any of this makes you uncomfortable I highly recommend that y'all check out my other works.
A terse silence had come over the group of teenagers as they'd listened to Donatello and Donnie explain their findings, each word making them be filled with a sense of dread at what it all meant. April sat beside Leonardo, biting her bottom lip as she listened, not liking what was being said at all.
"In conclusion we think that the Kraang might have something to do with bringing the alternate us to our universe. However whether it was international or not is unclear, but I do know that something's going on. These power surges that have been rising up from time to time for the past two or three weeks. The biggest surge was only a few days before Donnie and his brothers appeared within the lair."
Donatello said having explained the more complex aspects of his and his younger doppelganger's findings. April glanced at Leonardo seeing the serious gaze in his eyes as he processed and thought about what they were all going to do next. The psychic teen watched her friend as he thought of each possible course of action carefully, strategizing for potential missions should they go through with this. After a moment of silence the blue clad leader finally spoke his dark blue gaze zoned in on his little brother and his counterpart.
"So that means in order to get the answers to what's going on and to whether or not that the Kraang are involved with all of this we're going to have to seek them out and do recon."
The older turtle said his voice strong and sharp as he waited for Donatello and Donnie's response.
"More or less that's what Don here said. I don't know much about this Kraang but from what my ingenious companion here explained they're not the easiest bunch to find and they're highly dangerous if they're given the chance to enact on their plans."
Donnie stated blunt and to the point as he met Leonardo's gaze dead on. Donatello quickly chimed in.
"I'm thinking that we'll most likely need to locate and break into the Kraang facility and see exactly what's going on."
Donatello said earning a nod from the leader of their clan.
"If the Kraang have something to do with this and are planning something big it's our duty to find them and put a stop to it before they can cause some major damage to the city as well as possible other realities if they are responsible for our counterparts being here."
The blue clad turtle said already coming to the decision of checking it out.
"Also we gotta find a way to get the little bros back home!"
Michelangelo chimed in looking determined to help the younger turtles get back to their own world.
"So what's the plan Fearless? Do we go busting heads once we find these alien creeps?"
Raphael spoke up an already sharp gleam in his gaze. April couldn't help but mentally sigh in exasperated fondness at the red clad turtle's obvious excitement at the prospect of fighting their enemies. Raphael was always up for sparring and fighting.
"We'll go and check it out and see what we can find. But first we'll need to locate their base and see what possible threats it may have before we go busting in some heads. If we can avoid it I'd rather we not fight unless it's absolutely necessary."
Leonardo said his tone full of authority as he gazed at his brothers and April, a silent message being given to them. The four teens received it earning nods of agreement however Raphael's a little bit more hesitant than the others.
"So what should we do?"
Mikey's voice suddenly chimed in making the five older teens turn their attention towards their younger guests. The three other turtles looked a bit lost on what they were supposed to do during all of this, since it seemed like everyone else including their own brother Donnie already knew their roles in going through with this.
"If you don't mind I'd like for you four to start training with us in the dojo. That way we all can get used to each other's fighting styles and being able to work together better. The last thing I want is for us to be unprepared for this upcoming mission."
Leonardo answered him. April felt the blue clad turtle's aura shift a bit in unease and nervousness. Steel blue hues looked back up at her friend a look a slight confusion and concern coming up in her gaze and she knew that Leonardo had noticed her staring at him however he didn't respond to her confused look, instead continuing to be the leader that he'd always been since he was fifteen years old. April's gaze was torn away from him when Leo's voice spoke up.
"We can do that. It'll be better than sitting here and doing nothing."
Leo said his voice smooth and relaxed completely at ease despite the situation. However the slight twitch of his hand gave him away about just how unnerved he actually was. April felt the slider's aura shift and change, fluttery and constantly moving like a bird trapped in a bird cage. It made her older sister instincts go off a bit feeling that undercurrent of distress.
"Then it's settled, starting tomorrow morning we'll begin meeting within the dojo to train and learn from one another. Donnie?"
Leonardo asked turning his attention back to the purple genius who quickly responded to his unasked question.
"Already ahead of you Leo, me and my genius friend here have already started to do a search for the Kraang base and have things set up to catch anymore of these energy surges. We'll know immediately if something happens."
Donatello said already one step ahead of the game.
"We'll let you all know as soon as we've got something."
Donnie piped in already turning his attention to his wrist tech to start typing away and inputting the program that Donatello and him had started to work on. Leonardo nodded, satisfied with the results and spoke up.
"Then it's settled, for now we should rest up for the day and prepare for the dojo training tomorrow."
The blue clad leader said earning nods of varying degrees of agreement from the others. Taking that as a que April quickly sprung into action giving Leonardo a sweet smile as she gripped his forearm rather tightly.
"Why don't I go make you some tea Leo. I wanted to catch up with you anyway."
April said her voice sweet and as smooth as honey. However Leonardo seemed to hold back a flinch as he looked into her eyes and saw the irritation from earlier come back full force.
"Say April do you mind if I join you in that tea? I'd just love to catch up with you as well."
Donatello's voice suddenly much closer than it was before spoke up as a sudden grip on Leonardo's shoulder nearly made the turtle about jump out of his shell. April turned her gaze onto Donatello and quickly saw his own irritation within his reddish brown gaze despite the sweet gap toothed smile he was wearing.
"Of course Dee, I'd be honored to have you join us for tea. Come on Leo."
The red head said her voice still sickeningly sweet but the aura she and Donatello had told Leonardo that no wasn't a choice. The blue turtle closed his eyes for a moment taking a deep breath to mentally prepare himself for what was about to come. Then with a calm passive smile he got up from his seat already knowing that April and Donatello were following right behind him.
"Gladly."
The leader said knowing that he wasn't going to get out of this. As the two teens led Leonardo out of the pit and towards the lab April could hear Michelangelo's voice say.
"Oooooo someone's in trouble with Mom and Dad."
The orange turtle whispered amused by the scene. A snort of laughter and a smirk on Raphael's face was caught out of the corner of her eye as he responded back to his little brother.
"Too bad they got to him before we did. There's always next time though."
The red turtle said looking all the world like a cat who caught the carny. April paid no mind to them even when she felt the confused looks from the younger turtles on her back as she pulled Leonardo away from the group. Donatello followed behind them before parting ways to go into the kitchen to grab something before he came to join the duo. April took over from there her grip still tight on Leonardo's forearm as she all but dragged him into the lab where she could finally do what she'd been wanting to do since before the meeting. Pushing the doors open and practically shoving him inside the lab April turned to shut the doors behind her. As soon as they were closed the once sweet smile immediately fell away into a look of elder sister irritation and annoyance as she whirled around on Leonardo her steely blue gaze hard.
"Sit. Now."
She said her voice hard and leaving no room for him to argue. Leonardo did as he was told, knowing that an angry April wasn't an April you wanted to mess with. Once Leonardo was sitting down April began to pace the lab, angrily grabbing things that would be needed to make Leonardo's tea. Opening up the special cabinet that Donatello had in his lab she grabbed the old tea kettle that the purple genius kept for his older brother whenever he'd join in within said lab and filled it within the sink with water. Nearly slamming the tea kettle onto the counter she placed it on the burner that sat on Donatello's counter careful not to break his things in her anger. Leonardo flinched at the sound of the tea kettle already knowing that this lecture was going to be a big one. As April turned on the burner to warm up the water the sounds of the lab doors opening and closing along with that familiar nervous yet kind aura that belonged to Donatello filled the room letting her know that he had come to join them.
Glancing up from her task she saw the look of pure irritation on his tall friend's face, a small teabag tin with a hand written note taped to its side in his grasp as he placed it onto the counter next to her. The two didn't say a word the entire time, stewing instead in their emotions. Leonardo who was sitting in one of the lab chairs sat quietly bouncing his leg slightly to keep the access energy at bay. Once the kettle was going the two finally turned their narrowed eyed gazes onto the leader in blue, heated steel blue and reddish brown gazes boring into passive dark blue. It was only a beat of silence before April was the one who broke it.
"Just what in the HELL WERE YOU THINKING?????"
The red head finally snapped her tone raising a bit in her concerned anger.
"Well-"
The blue turtle began only to be cut off.
"Pulling a stunt like that!! When your voice is already strained enough!!"
The psychic snarled not happy at all. Leonardo narrowed his eyes in slight frustration.
"What was I supposed to do? I can't just stop raising my voice at times all because of my throat, the meeting needed to be started and there was just too much noise going on to be heard."
Leonardo said his voice cracking halfway through as he tried to defend himself however at that moment Donatello joined in the scolding lecture.
"You could have gotten me to quiet everyone down! Or hell you could have let April do it! You know damn well that putting that much strain on your vocal chords isn't good, and yet you still do it anyway!"
Donatello snapped his voice sharp and upset at his older brother's earlier stunt. Leonardo at this point just hardened his gaze at the two not liking how they weren't seeming to trust him enough to know his own body and how it works.
"I understand that more than you think and I'd made the decision to raise my voice anyway. It's my decision whether or not I take certain risks and I know my limitations when it comes to my vocal chords. I don't need to be told what I can and cannot do."
The blue clad turtle said stressing his sentence to let them know that he knew what he was doing. However April and Donatello wouldn't hear it.
"Leo while it may be your decision to go through with these things it's still a decision that will affect the ones around you! You think we like seeing you struggle to even talk or raise your voice??? We want you to be able to still communicate with us and if you keep doing these things you're gonna end up losing your voice completely and we can't handle it-!"
April said the concern and worry she'd felt beneath her irritation breaking through her voice. Leonardo went quiet as he caught her tone, his once hardened gaze softening slightly.
"Look Leo, I know that you don't.....that you don't like to acknowledge these things. I know that you're fully capable of handling yourself and knowing your own limits. But in the end it doesn't matter because even though we know these things on a logical level, we still can't help but want to make things a bit more easier for you in the long run. Me and April, Raph and Mikey we're not trying to make you feel like you can't take care of yourself. We just want to help you because we love you, and seeing you doing things that could hurt you ends up hurting us too."
Donatello said his voice once stern and hard was now softening slightly in hopes of making his older brother understand exactly why him and April were scolding him for what he'd done. The once hardened gaze had now completely disappeared and was replaced with guilt for causing unnecessary worry to his loved ones. April felt her own irritation die down as she saw the guilt filled expression and she reached out towards him and gripped his hand gently.
"I'm sorry for yelling at you. I was just worried about you and I let myself lose my cool for a moment. I know that you're capable and that you know what you can and can't do. You're my brother Leo and I can't help but worry when you do stuff like that."
The red head said her tone now more gentle than it was before. Donatello stepped up next to her and gave Leonardo's other hand a gentle squeeze.
"She's right. We're just worried about you, you're our brother and we just want you to be safe and comfortable. Not push yourself because you feel like you have to. You maybe our leader and the head of the Hamato clan but you're still our brother and we don't want you to suffer, just like you don't want us to."
The purple genius said his tone sincere. And it was true, they both just wanted Leonardo to be take it easy and to not push himself too much. It wasn't because they didn't believe that he could do it, but rather it was because they knew that he could and could surpass it even if he put his mind to it that they worried about him. April felt Leonardo squeeze her hand back the tension between the three of them finally dying down. The blue clad turtle looked up at the red head and the tall purple clad turtle and before the two realized it they were being dragged into a hug, Leonardo's arms wrapped tightly around them.
"I'm sorry that I worried you all. I shouldn't have pulled a stunt like that. I'll try to keep it toned down, but I can't make any guarantees of it."
The leader said knowing that he couldn't exactly promise to not push his vocal chords again but to at least try not to was something he could do. The two teenagers relaxed and hugged Leonardo back, the stress of the situation finally dispersed. The trio were pulled out of their embrace however when the sound of the tea kettle going off startled them apart. April was the first one up, already going to get her friend his cup of tea. Donatello remained by his older brother's side quietly talking to him as their red haired companion got the tea.
"If you don't mind I'd like to at least take a look at your throat and see if you might have done some unknown damage to it. You did raise your voice volume pretty high and that crackle it gave off didn't sound too good."
Donatello said as he went into medic mode already getting ready to do some tests while he had Leonardo in his lab. April heard the older turtle sigh softly before responding.
"I can do that, besides I kinda owe you for the unintentional worry I caused. So exam as much as you like Don."
Leonardo said his voice now back to its original volume cracked somewhat. April flinched a bit at the sound, thinking about how the raised volume in his earlier stunt combined with the talking during the meeting had probably ruined his throat somewhat. Gripping the cup of tea April brought it over and passed it to Leonardo who gratefully took it and took a sip, the medical herbs and other soothing properties of it helping his throat that was now currently aching.
"Thanks April."
The oldest Hamato said his voice soft and raspy making April's heart twist.
"Anytime Leo."
The red head replied easily. She would have said more however Donatello had taken over having gone to grab his kit to do the examination of his older brother's throat. April stepped back as she watched the two brothers for a moment, listening to Donatello's voice begin to ramble as he began his checkup on the older teen.
"I'll have to make you more teabags I'd noticed that you were running low, you should have said something. And while you're here has your knee been acting up lately.....?"
Donatello said professional and mother henning somewhat as he checked Leonardo over. April took that as her que to leave the two be, knowing how the blue clad turtle could be whenever too many people were in the same room while he was being checked over. Making her way towards the doors she took one last look at the two brothers, watching Donatello gently and confidently look over Leonardo while the blue clad turtle let him content to just let the purple clad genius go.
'They'll be okay.'
The thought whispered reassuring her and with one final look she'd stepped out of the lab, leaving the two brothers alone.
~~~~~
Donnie sat on the couch with his brothers and Raphael and Michelangelo watching as Donatello and April had dragged Leonardo to the lab. It wasn't long after that a feminine shout full of irration and muffled echoed into the living room.
"Just what in the HELL WERE YOU THINKING?????"
Donnie and the others in the living room flinched at the harsh shout that came from lab, surprised by how strong it was.
'Note to self don't get on her bad side.'
The genius mentally noted. On the one side of the couch Raphael and Michelangelo were sitting and listening looking torn between being a bit smug and feeling sorry for their older brother. The two warm colored turtles knew all too well how scary it could be to be on the receiving end of not only April's scoldings but Donatello's as well.
"God rest his soul."
Michelangelo said sounding grave.
"He shall be forever known as the fool who embarked April and Donatello's wrath."
Raphael chimed in shaking his head in mock sympathy. Donnie and his brothers shared a look amongst themselves seemingly debating whether or not they should comment on the two older turtles quips or if they should just stay out of it.
'I'm not touching this. So don't even look at me.'
Dark brown eyes said already letting the other three pairs know that he wouldn't do it.
'I'm with Dee on this one. Usually I'm all for getting into the tea but I'm gonna pass on this one.'
Light blue hues chimed in obviously a bit spooked by the surprisingly scary April O'Neil.
'Yeah no I don't think even Dr. Feelings or Dr. Delicate Touch is gonna mess with this one.'
Light brown ones said obviously not wanting to step on that land mine. Three pairs of eyes seemed to drift towards the last pair waiting for a response. They were met with the familiar stank of a nervous sweating.
'Raph is willing to do a lot of things. But not this, dealing with our April when she's upset is nerve wracking enough. Raph can't do another one.'
Dark green hues said refusing to even entertain the thought. In silent agreement the four brothers decided that it was probably best to just live it be. The six turtles sat on the couches quietly in the living room pit area for quite sometime when the sounds of the lab doors opening and then closing sounded out throughout the lair. Six pairs of eyes snapped towards the direction of the lab doors to see who it was that had stepped out. April seemed to pause feeling their gazes on her, the short red head looking a bit uneasy at all the attention. A pregnant silence filled the air between them before Raphael spoke up and broke it.
"Everything cleared up?"
Raphael asked his tone blunt and giving nothing away to what exactly was being cleared up. April seemed to relax and she gave him a small smile this one more sincere than the one from earlier.
"Yep everything's cleared. Me and Dee took care of it."
The psychic said earning a grunt in response from the red clad turtle. Now seemingly satisfied Raphael suddenly stood up from the couch cracking his neck slightly and stretching.
"Cool, now if you'll excuse me I'm gonna go to the dojo and hit some dummies. All this sitting around twiddling my thumbs has gotten me all twitchy."
Raphael stated not even bothering to wait for a response before he'd disappeared from the living room already making his way to the dojo. Michelangelo shortly after followed suit, a bright smile on his freckled face.
"Thanks for handling things Ape. You're the bomb! I'm gonna go finish making lunch since I couldn't get to it before the meeting."
Michelangelo chirped already somewhat skipping into the kitchen. It didn't take much after that to make the younger turtles go into gear.
"Ya know Raph's feeling like doing some sparring too I'll go join Shorty in the dojo and see if he wants to sparr with me."
Raph said practically flying from his place on the couch to try and calm down the nerves he'd gotten from earlier. Mikey was quick to follow bouncing up from the couch as well and jogging towards the kitchen.
"I promised Mike I'd help make lunch! So I'm gonna go do that!"
Mikey said already gone before the remaining teenagers could even open their mouths to say anything. All that was left was Donnie, his older twin Leo and April. The three looked at each other quiet for a moment before April broke the silence.
"If you guys don't mind I'll just join you on the couch."
The red head said sounding a bit hesitant to do so. Leo quickly went to reassure the older teen.
"Hey no, no we don't mind. Me and Donald here were just planning on hanging out on the couch anyway right Dee?"
Leo said ribbing his younger twin in the side. Donnie gave him an unamused look not enjoying the random touches.
"Not much else I can do since the lab is currently being used by Don and other you. So I'm somewhat stuck here with you."
The soft shell said his tone blunt and somewhat uninterested. The red eared slider gave a mock offended gasp at his twin as April had came down to join them placing herself on the other side of Donnie.
"How cold of you! Acting like you don't enjoy my company! I'm offended, how could you betray me like this??"
The slider said dramatically a hand on his chest to add to the effect. His twin just scoffed quirking an eyebrow at him.
"I'm sorry that the truth is too cold for you Leon, but I don't make a habit to lie about these things."
The purple genius replied playing right along with his twin. The blue jokester instantly made a few noises of protest and mock offensive. The twins were interrupted by April's amused chuckles at their shenanigans. The two brothers turned their attention to the alternate version of their adopted sister, seeing her steel blue eyes sparkling with amusement.
"You two really are something else huh?"
She asked curious and amused. Leo came out of his stupor and shot her a small smirk.
"We're a whole different breed. Me and Don here are on a whole different level."
Leo said smirking confidently while Donnie just rolled his eyes at his twins antics.
"Hehe it would seem so. You two are vastly different from my Leo and Donnie."
The red head said having already noticed the major differences between the boys she knew and the ones currently in front of her. Donnie turned his attention to her his dark brown hues curious and somewhat withdrawn.
"We could say the same about you. You're vastly different from our April back in our world."
The soft shell said feeling a pang at the mention of his April back home. The older April went quiet somewhat noticing the sudden change in Donnie and the small shift of Leo's attitude. The two had seemed to grow dim at the thought of their April and the red head could feel the way their auras brightness seemed to go a bit duller than they once were. Her heart went out to the two younger turtles, compassion and understanding filling her heart.
"Can you tell me about her?"
April asked tucking her legs underneath her to get more comfortable on the couch. The two teens seemed to brighten up somewhat and quickly began to tell her about her alternate self.
"Oh man were to even begin......well for one thing she looks extremely different from you. She's got dark brown eyes and she wears glasses, she's got darker skin and dark brown hair that she puts up in these kickass space buns."
Leo began to say describing their beloved friend back home. Donnie was quick to chime in to the conversation, wanting to talk about her as well.
"She's also fearless and a fighter. She's incredibly smart and hard working, she's funny and fiercely passionate about things that she enjoys. She's......"
Donnie said trailing off and Leo took over.
"Incredible. She's our best friend and she's practically our sister if we're being honest."
Leo said finishing up for Donnie. The two suddenly went quiet as they thought about her, a sudden sadness filling their hearts as they realized that back home they'd disappeared without a trace. Disappeared without being able to let April or their own father know where they were or that they were safe from harm. About how worried sick she must be at the moment. Donnie felt his throat tighten a bit as he thought of his best friend and how she had no clue about what had happened to them.
'Will we even see her again? Will we even be able to get back home to her and papa? What if we can't get home? What....what if we never get to see her ever again??'
The questions and sudden fears hit the soft shell hard as he tried to imagine never seeing April or his father ever again. As he tried to imagine never hearing April's laughter or her sarcastic comments or her jokes. Donnie swallowed harshly and about jumped out of his skin when he felt Leo grip his battle shell in a comforting manner obviously noticing that he'd became distressed. However nothing took him more by surprise than what the red head next to him said.
"I know that it's scary being in a place where you can't see your loved ones. It's hard when you all you want to do is to get back home to them and to see them again. It's.....it's the most awful feeling in the world."
April said her voice soft and gentle as the two turtles turned their gazes onto her in shock.
"How......how did you know.....?"
Leo asked trying to keep his surprise out of his tone. Donnie meanwhile just stared at the older girl in naked surprise at having what they were currently feeling be hit right on the dot.
"I know the feeling because I experienced it. A few years back, back when I was sixteen I'd been kidnapped by the Kraang alongside my father. My father he's a scientist and they wanted to use his research to help bring their dreams of mutating New York to life. During this kidnapping I'd met Donnie and the others. They helped me escape but.....but we were forced to leave him behind. I went into hiding with them and Master Splinter, and that entire time all I could do was worry about him and miss him more than anything in the world. It was one of the most scariest moments in my life."
April explained a far away look in her gaze as she spoke.
"But you know something? In the end I'd ended up getting my father back safe and sound. The boys they'd helped me get him back, they'd kept their promise to me that I'd be able to see him again."
The red head said a small smile coming onto her pale freckled cheeks as she turned her gaze to the two younger turtles their own gazes wide and vulnerable as they were greeted by a reassuring warmth.
"I know that things are bad right now. But I also know that you all will see your loved ones again. If my boys are on the job then I know without a doubt in my mind that you'll both, along with your brothers will return home safely. And if you're anything like my boys and your April is anything like me, you'll definitely make it happen and your April will be right there waiting for you, because she knows that she can depend on you to come back. You just gotta keep holding on."
April said her tone strong and full of warmth and confidence in what she was saying. Seeing the red head looking so sure of herself, seeing her warm and kind smile full of confidence and faith in them as well as in her own turtles, made Leo and Donnie's spirits rise, the sorrow that was there no longer weighing them down. Donnie stared at this alternate version of his April, and in that moment he saw the very reason why she was an April as well. Just like his April back home this older and vastly different April was filled with the same burning passion and fearlessness and unshakable faith that their own beloved friend carried with her. The two turtles sat there for a moment quietly before Donnie surprisingly was the one to speak up first.
"Thank you April......we......we really needed to hear that."
The soft shell said his tone soft while the slider next to him nodded in agreement his own gratitude on his face.
"Dee's right we.....we really needed that so seriously.....thank you."
Leo said his voice suspiciously thick sounding. No one commented on it however instead opting to let him keep his dignity and pride. April gave the two boys another sincere smile her gaze warm and reassuring.
"It's no problem, I'm glad I could help you both out."
She said sweetly before the three of them fell into a comfortable silence, only speaking occasionally about mundane things and topics. Leo and Donnie knew that it wouldn't be easy to get back home but they knew that no matter what happens they'd do everything within their power to make it happen.
After all they had an April who was waiting for them and who always would wait for them no matter where or when.
*I'm on a roll today my bitches holy shit. Anyways I hope that this chapter is good for y'all because chapter eight is gonna take me some time and it'll probably be a bit before it comes out because I've got some big plans to help push the plot along. I was gonna hold off on this chapter but April wouldn't get out of my head and this plot was driving me nuts so I ended up writing it woooo. Also I apologize in advance for the short chapter it'll be better in the next one (hopefully maybe if the gods of creativity spare my self indulgent ass lol). Anyways if any y'all read this I hope you enjoyed it!!!*
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twstgabrielle 2 years
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Reading Guidelines and Warnings: The 2012 boys will be addressed by their full names unless they're speaking about each other or addressing one another. The Rise boys will be addressed by their nicknames. Also this fic will contain spoilers for both shows and will have mentioned major character death as well as language. If any of this makes you uncomfortable I highly recommend that y'all check out my other works.
Today was already a somewhat interesting day in Mikey's opinion. From waking up to now being currently soaked by a water balloon it was suffice to say that his day was going to be a bit better than it'd been the last few days. The box turtle wiped his face to get rid of the water, already having a clue as to who was responsible for the prank. Especially when he'd caught sight of Raph earlier being completely soaked with an amused yet exasperated expression on his face and was now hearing Raphael's loud confused and colorful swearing coming from the living room.
"Classic Leon pranking. Never gets old."
Mikey mused softly a smile coming onto his face as he thought of the slider. The youngest Hamato was honestly surprised with himself for not foreseeing his older brother's course of action, given that the lair had been filled with nothing but grieving silences and mourning for those who were no longer amongst them. Leo was never good at the emotional vulnerability and it had only been a matter of time before his older brother would do something about it. The small box turtle looked at his hands now wet with water and picked off the little bits of latex from the exploded water balloon that had hit him, realizing that the mess was bigger than he originally thought. With a mindless shrug Mikey began to make his way towards the kitchen to throw the pieces of balloon away and to find either paper towels or a dish rag to dry himself off. As he drew near the kitchen he couldn't help but feel a bit of anxiety hit him, recalling the last time he'd gone to the kitchen to do something.
'Wouldn't want to repeat what you did a few days ago. You've already upset everyone enough.'
The thought vicious and filled with guilt hit him hard and made him flinch a bit. He had never met to cause such a horrific turn of events by eavesdropping nor did he mean to hurt the older turtles as well as his brothers with it. He could still see the forced smile on Michelangelo's face when he'd exited the kitchen, the puffy eyes and the stained freckled cheeks.
'You made him cry, because you weren't paying attention. You hurt your friend.'
His thoughts hissed as he shook his head to disperse them. He didn't want to get upset again, didn't want to cry and think about the knowledge he'd learned. Forcing himself to get a grip Mikey took a deep breath and stepped inside the kitchen and took in the area. The kitchen was old and full of all sorts of things that were different from his own home. Kitchen utensils and cabinets and an ancient stove and fridge filled the room adding a homely touch of sorts. Pictures hung on the fridge as well as small sticky notes written in different colored inks and writing styles. A kitchen table and four chairs that were older sat in the middle of the room, on the counters sat the microwave and some food items. A little bit further down the counter sat a toaster that looked like it'd been fixed several times throughout the years and had a little sign hanging on the wall next to it. Mikey felt himself grow curious at the sight of the toaster and the sign, his earlier guilt filled thoughts being pushed back a bit as he stepped towards the counter to get a better look at it. Light brown hues squinted a bit to read.
No touching the toaster, I'm getting sick of fixing it, if you want to use it get me, Raph or Mikey. But for the love of pizza keep your hands off it! -D
The sign said making Mikey snicker in amusement.
'Seems like my bro isn't the only one who struggles with the toaster.'
Mikey mused absolutely giddy with the knowledge that the toaster was apparently an enemy of all blue clad turtles everywhere. A little bit lighter than he had been previously Mikey continued to look around the kitchen only now in search for a trashcan to get rid of his balloon pieces. It didn't take him long to find it and he disposed of the trash, before beginning his next search for something to dry himself off with. However this search wasn't as easy as the first one and he found himself digging around a bit. Opening a few cabinets and the one underneath the sink he was met with things such as food, plates, cleaning supplies and cleaners yet there was no sign of any paper towels or dish rags. The box turtle gave a small huff as he continued his search, opening up more cabinets. The next one he'd opened up was full of tins of different varieties of drinks. From coffee to punch to tea, it was practically filled with it. However one tin stuck out in particular since this one had a little hand written note on its side.
Tea bags for Leo's throat, please do not touch them. -D
The note said written in the same hand writing as the sign by the toaster. Mikey felt a pang of confusion as he stared at the tin.
'Tea bags for Leo's throat? Wonder what that's all about......wait no. Mikey don't go poking around in it, remember what happened last time. Save this for a later date.'
His mind scolded him making him tear his eyes from the tin of tea bags to continue his search. A few minutes later he still couldn't find the paper towels or dish rags, and he was about to just give it up and call it quits.
"Hey Raph have you seen my-oh! Little dude, sup? You need something?"
A voice suddenly came from behind Mikey nearly making the box turtle scream in fright. Whirling around his wide light brown hues landed on the familiar figure of Michelangelo. The older Hamato had jumped a bit as well from how fast Mikey had spun around, his baby blue eyes wide in a startled manner.
"Mike-! Holy shell you scared me!"
Mikey said his tone a bit rushed as he tried to calm his racing heart. Michelangelo gave him a small apologetic smile, rubbing his neck in somewhat embarrassment.
"Ah sorry little dude, I didn't mean to spook you so badly. I was just wondering if you needed something."
Michelangelo said giving the younger turtle another smile. Mikey felt his heart jump a bit in an anxious manner, offering his older counterpart a small half smile.
"Uh yeah I was looking for paper towels or some dish rags, I'd gotten wet earlier and I was hoping to dry myself off."
Mikey said. Michelangelo perked up and was already moving further into the kitchen to help him.
"Oh! The paper towels are behind the cooking utensils holder by the fridge!"
Michelangelo chirped happily reaching over to grab them for his friend. Mikey watched him, feeling himself relax a bit at his older alternate self's chipper attitude.
"To be honest I was going to get some myself, I'd gotten pranked and I wanted to clean up from the water."
Michelangelo said as he handed Mikey the paper towels after taking a few for himself. The box turtle took them finally taking notice of Michelangelo's wet shell.
"Leo got you too? Man he's on a roll today."
Mikey mused outloud earning a curious look from his older doppelganger.
"Leo? Wait your brother was the one who pranked me?? Bro that's sick, it's not easy to prank me like that. Your bro's got some mad skills son!"
The older orange turtle praised making Mikey smile a bit in pride for his older brother.
"Yeah.....Leon's always good at this stuff."
Mikey said thinking about all the pranks Leo had done as he went quiet and dried himself off. Michelangelo had began to do the same, causing a small silence to build between the two orange turtles. Mikey patted his neck with the paper towel, trying not to show just how nervous he was. The box turtle and his older counterpart hadn't really talked much since the incident in the dojo, mainly because the younger turtle had felt too guilty to approach the older turtle. Despite knowing logically that what happened was an accident, it still didn't stop the guilt and shame that had begun to build up within him which in turn made him somewhat avoid the older alternate version of himself for the past few days. And deep down he knew that eventually he'd have to face the music and confront these feelings he was facing yet he wasn't quite ready to now that he was in the same room as Michelangelo.
'Come on Mikey, this isn't like you. You're good at the whole feelings thing, and you know that if don't talk to him it'll cause problems down the line. So what's stopping you?'
A voice belonging to his inner Dr. Feelings whispered in his head as the silence began to stretch between the duo while they dried themselves off. It was a good question, what was stopping him from clearing the air between them, what was stopping him from facing the music?
'I'm afraid.....I'm afraid that I'd hurt Mike too badly and that he won't want to be my friend anymore. I'm afraid of what his answer will be when I apologize for all the trouble I caused.'
He responded back feeling that familiar wave of anxiety from the past few days come back. It was no secret that despite the short time spent with his older doppelganger, Mikey had grown somewhat attached to Michelangelo and now considered him a friend. And like many new friendships he had wanted to try and build up on it to make it more sturdy. It was a delicate territory to trend and anything that was too much could kill that new budding friendship and make it turn sour like rotting fruit. And he'd unintentionally killed that possibly friendship by bringing up an obvious traumatic and painful memory that Michelangelo had experienced not too long ago. A pang of guilt, shame and sorrow hit him, making his hands shake slightly in tremors. So much so that he didn't even realize that Michelangelo had finished drying himself off and had noticed the younger's distress.
"Hey little Mikey you alright bro? You're shaking..."
Michelangelo said his voice, usually loud and full of childish excitement, now soft and concerned as he reached out to place a hand on his younger counterpart's shell. Mikey snapped his head up towards Michelangelo, seeing the concerned look in his gaze, open and full of patience with no hint of anger. It was this look that made Mikey break. The box turtle didn't even hesitate before he began to speak.
"I'm.....I'm so sorry Mike. I'm so sorry for making you and your brothers cry, I'm so sorry for making you all hurt and I'm so sorry for eavesdropping-! It's all my fault that you and your brothers got upset and I swear I never meant to hurt you or your family I didn't know and I know that you probably hate me for it-"
Mikey began to say his sentences becoming rushed as he let his distress and regret get the best of him. The younger orange turtle was practically word vomiting when he was interrupted by a firm shake against his shell.
"Mikey! Little dude you have no reason to apologize for that stuff. You didn't know about Master Splinter nor did you know what we'd been through. Me and my bros don't blame you for what happened nor do we hold anything against you and I most certainly don't hate you!"
Michelangelo said sounding upset and serious as he shook the younger turtle a bit in the hopes of getting him to listen to him. Mikey's mouth opened a bit in a gap, his light brown eyes filled with a bit of a shiny moisture as he took in what the older turtle said.
"But.....but...."
Mikey began to say only to again be cut off.
"It's seriously okay little dude, no one's angry with you for what happened. If I'm honest with ya, it was probably for the better to get it out in the open then to stay quiet about it. So you basically did us a favor little dude, so don't beat yourself up for what happened."
Michelangelo said his tone sincere and strong with conviction as he stared straight into Mikey's gaze. Mikey just stared back searching for a hint of a lie, however he was only met with sincerity. Mikey felt his heart lighten as he realized that Michelangelo didn't hate him nor were he and his brothers angry with him. In that moment it felt like a huge weight had been lifted off of his shoulders and Mikey finally gave Michelangelo a watery smile as he wiped his eyes to get rid of the moisture that had been building up.
"Still I'm....I'm sorry about what happened. I never would have brought it up if.....if I knew that it would hurt you."
Mikey said trying to show the older orange clad turtle just how much he regretted it. Michelangelo just gave him a small smile back and rubbed his shell comfortingly.
"I know you wouldn't. You're a good guy Mikey and me as well as my brothers already know that you wouldn't do something like that on purpose. So relax your shell a bit, you've already been forgiven."
Michelangelo said his voice a lot more lighter and back to its original cheerful tone that it was known for. Mikey practically sagged in relief and finally gave Michelangelo a brighter smile which in turn made the older one smile right back. Giving Mikey's shell one last comforting pat Michelangelo finally removed his hand. The once quiet atmosphere that had been weighing between them was gone and now replaced with a newer much more brighter one as the duo finally talked and cleared everything up. Michelangelo turned away from Mikey to go and throw his paper towel away, his chipper voice calling out.
"You wanna help me get started on lunch little me? I could definitely use the extra set of hands!"
Michelangelo asked as he started to get things ready and grab the cooking utensils. Mikey felt his face break out into an excited grin, the guilt and regret that had been eating away at him for the past few days now gone.
"Oh me gosh I'd love too!"
The younger turtle chirped happily earning a cheerful laugh from the older turtle.
"Heck yeah bro, glad to have your help! For your first task as my helper can you get me the vegetables from the freezer? We're gonna make a quick stir fry for lunch."
The older Hamato said already taking the lead as he got the stir fry pan to get started. The younger Hamato let out a chipper confirmation and went to go grab the frozen veggies for the older turtle. Practically skipping towards the fridge he reached up towards the upper freezer compartment of it and pulled the door open. Freezing cold air hit his face and arms making him shiver for a moment. Reaching into the freezer Mikey began his search for the veggies when he felt something graze his fingers. The orange turtle teen froze at the sensation, confusion suddenly hitting him. However he was taken out of it when again he felt that sensation against his fingers, a smooth yet rough kind of texture was running over his scaly fingers, in a motion that kept repeating itself almost as if.......
"Meow~"
A loud happy meow sounded from within the freezer, a puddle of Neapolitan ice cream moving from the corner of the freezer to come closer to the entrance. Two eyes blinked up at him and the ice cream began to take the shape of a feline, with two floppy cat ears peeking out of the head and two tiny front paws appearing from the pile of ice cream. Mikey's eyes had grown to the size of dinner plates, shock and disbelief written all over his expression before it morphed into a starry eyed look as a bright gap toothed grin stretched out on his dark green face.
"HOLY PIZZA SUPREME-!!! YOU HAVE A ICE CREAM CAT?????"
Mikey's voice practically cracked with how loud he had said the sentence in his childish excitement and glee. Michelangelo's head snapped up and his own pale green freckled face broke out into its own wide grin as he stepped away from the stove and stepped towards the freezer to greet the ice cream cat within. The frozen feline mewed in a chipper way, greeting her owner with happiness.
"Oh yeah-! I'd forgotten to introduce you to her-! Mikey, this is my pet Ice Cream Kitty! Ice Cream Kitty, this is my new little dude Mikey!"
The older orange clad teen said introducing the two. Ice Cream Kitty let out a series of meows and purrs as if she was saying hello to Mikey. The small box turtle couldn't help but giggle a bit, absolutely in love with the feline.
"She's so cute Mike! I've never seen a cat made of ice cream before!"
Mikey chirped as he began to pet the frozen feline. Ice Cream Kitty responded with a small purring noise, rubbing her dairy product head against Mikey's hand.
"Yeah, Ice Cream Kitty wasn't always ice cream. She was once a normal stray kitty that our friend brought to the lair, but after an incident of her eating ice cream and getting doused in mutagen she mutated into this. She's been like this ever since, but she seems happy."
Michelangelo explained reaching inside himself to pet his beloved pet. Mikey paused in his petting, turning his attention towards the older alternate turtle in curiosity.
"Whoa wait mutagen? You mean like the stuff that mutated us? But how did she get doused in it, if it's been carried by mosquitoes?"
The younger turtle asked making the older turtle pause his own petting to look at the younger with the same look of curiosity.
"She got into one of the broken canisters of mutagen that Donnie was studying, wait what do mosquitoes have to do with it?"
The older Hamato asked confused yet interested.
"Ah well in my universe we didn't have canisters of mutagen. The way mutagen was given to people and animals to mutate them was by mosquitoes, or rather mystic mosquitoes. They were released into the city after we'd faced off against our first bad guy, Baron Draxum. A sheep yokai scientist who was more or less the reason me and my family were mutated. But he's changed since then and has gotten a lot better!"
The younger Hamato explained smiling brightly as he thought about how far his second father had come. Michelangelo meanwhile just stared at his younger counterpart in shock and intrigue as he began to grow amazed by what he was learning.
"Mystic mosquitoes??? Yokai??? Like Japanese Yokai??? Holy shell dude that's insane!!!"
The older teen said his voice full of excitement. The younger turtle gave a head tilt in confusion.
"Yeah those, wait do you guys not have mystics or yokai here???"
The box turtle asked shocked by the thought of not having those things.
"No bro, we don't got stuff like that here! The only thing we've got is spiritual and healing mantra stuff though we do have some types of magic like witchcraft! Our friend Shinigami is an excellent ninja who can do witchcraft! And Leo's practically a master of spiritual and healing mantras! Like it's crazy! We also have aliens from another dimension, the Kraang, and they're the ones who made the mutagen here in our world!"
The older turtle said explaining in his ecstatic tone while Mikey just blinked in dumbfounded shock. Aliens??? Mantras???? Witchcraft????? What?????? The orange turtle was about to spew several thousand questions at his older counterpart when a voice suddenly broke through the conversation.
"Michael, other Michael you're both needed in the living room. Don and I's orders."
A voice plain and blunt came from the doorway making the two orange turtles turn around to catch the sight of Donnie. The soft shell didn't seem too pleased with something, his expression uncharacteristically serious. Mikey felt his gut sink at the look and Michelangelo seemed to straighten himself up somewhat as he took in the seriousness that came off of the purple turtle.
"We'll be there, I need to turn off the stove first and then we'll meet you and Dee there."
Michelangelo said his voice relaxed yet somewhat more serious.
"We'll be right there Donald, that's a promise."
Mikey piped up to reassure his older brother. Donnie glanced at the two of them, his dark brown eyes searching before giving a nod. Without another word the genius soft shell left the kitchen leaving Mikey and Michelangelo alone once more with Ice Cream Kitty. The two orange clad turtles exchanged a look with one another before they quietly split up to do their tasks quickly, the preparation for lunch now put on hold. Michelangelo bid Ice Cream Kitty a goodbye placing a kiss on her head before going to turn off the stove and make sure that everything was away from it while Mikey gave her a gentle head pat and closed the freezer door so he could help his older doppelganger. The two didn't say anything but they both knew one thing.
Something was coming and it wasn't good.
~~~~~
Being the oldest Hamato son wasn't the easiest thing in the world. Yet it was a role that Raph bared on his shoulders with a sense of pride. He was the big brother, the leader of the Mad Dogs and the one who his loved ones could depend on. It was a role that Raph did well, a role that made him essentially who he was. Even when the leadership role was given to his younger brother Leo, he still was the oldest Hamato son and it was his duty to support his family in times such as this. To support them when their world had shattered and crumbled around them after finding out about Master Splinter. And he did this task with no complaints, cheering his little brothers up and offering comfort when they grieved for the father that wasn't theirs and for a grandmother who had sacrificed her very life to protect them from the Shredder. He supported them for those few days, while also keeping a keen eye on the older turtles, ready to step in should they too need his assistance. Raph had been so immersed with his duties that he'd in a way forgotten to think about himself and his own needs.
It was something that happened from time to time, moments where he'd forget about himself and keep his inner feelings to himself so he could be there for his loved ones. It was a habit that was rarely used unless the situations grew dire. Such as the revelation of Master Splinter's demise, and the effects it'd had on his brothers as well as himself. It was a somewhat stressful situation that he was in and the habit had ended up rearing its head. So it was really no surprise when a few days later Raph had been somewhat greeted with a good dosage of classic Leo affection via water balloon once everything had settled down. The large snapping turtle could only let out a long exasperated sigh as he was suddenly soaked on the back of his neck and spiky shell, with no signs of the assailant anywhere. Raph knew that it was Leo who had been causing the pranks, since Mikey had passed him not too long ago soaked himself and the sudden loud and confused swearing that sounded from the living room filled the lair.
Raph was by the ping ball machine heading towards the bathroom to use the mirror to see the back of his shell to get rid of the shredded water balloon when the irritated growls of confused swearing came closer towards him. The snapping turtle didn't have to wait long to see his shorter counterpart Raphael come stomping by, his bright green eyes narrowed in irritation as he growled.
"I swear to God when I get my hands on who did this bullshit I'm gonna dunk their head in a bucket of fucking water...."
Raphael hissed as he stomped by, not even noticing Raph who was staring wide eyed at the nasty swearing. Dark green hues followed the shorter turtle as he drew further away, his head and ragged red mask soaked with water. Raph had to bit back a curse of his own when he realized that Raphael was going for the bathroom as well.
'This might not end well.'
The large turtle thought already feeling his nervous sweating start up as he followed behind to go grab a towel. It didn't take long to reach the bathroom and Raphael's voice coming from it.
"Stupid water balloons, stupid pranks pain in my shell I swear to God. I'm too old for this shit."
Raphael growled as Raph awkwardly stood by the open door. Shimmying a bit Raph debated whether he should knock or say something when Raphael's voice speaking up startled him.
"If you're going to just stand outside the bathroom door could you at least hand me the damn towel from the cabinet?"
Raphael said not even bothering to act like he was having a good time. Raph jumped a bit at being addressed by his older and shorter doppelganger and awkwardly went to grab the towel while not trying to make the hot headed red turtle more upset.
"Ah sorry man-! Didn't mean to just.....stand around I just wanted to use the mirror for a bit....."
Raph said rambling a bit as he grabbed the towel and held it out to Raphael. Raphael finally turned his attention towards the larger and younger turtle, his irritation still there but less burning as he regarded the large snapping turtle.
"The mirror? Why would you need the mirror for.....?"
Raphael began to question before he finally noticed that Raph was also wet, and that pieces of latex water balloon was stuck in his shell and its spikes. Suddenly understanding the shorter turtle glared a bit annoyed that he apparently wasn't the only victim in this prank fest.
"Ah they got you too? Bastard's gotta be fast if he's able to get two of us as quickly as he did."
Raphael said gruff as he moved over in the bathroom to give Raph some room to check himself out in the mirror. Raph only hesitated for a beat before carefully making his way into the bathroom to get a look at his shell, a bit relieved that Raphael wasn't going to snap at him. The large red clad turtle didn't want to start a fight with the shorter one, especially since the group of eight had finally managed to start moving forward with their mission and getting along with one another.
"We weren't the only ones that got hit, Mikey did too."
Raph supplied in earning a look from Raphael as he turned around to make his large spiky shell face the mirror.
"Mikey, I'm guessing your Mikey right?"
Raphael asked gruff but curious, the irritation dying down a bit now that he was talking to distract himself. The larger turtle nodded smiling a small snaggletoothed grin at the thought of the box turtle.
"Yep that's the one."
Raph said as he looked at his shell seeing bits and pieces of balloon stuck within his spikes. The snapping turtle felt a hint of annoyance when he realized that the pieces of the ruined balloon were in areas that he couldn't quite reach on his own.
'Oh Leon you little....'
The thought popped up annoyed by his little brother's lack of aim.
'Couldn't he have at least hit me somewhere where I could reach it?'
He thought as he seemed to glare into the mirror in his annoyance. Raphael must have came to realize what was going on because he suddenly spoke up from beside Raph.
"If you need help getting those out of your shell I can do it."
Raphael said gruffly making Raph's dark green hues snap towards him in a startled and flustered manner.
"What-? Oh no man you don't gotta do that I'll figure it out-"
Raph began to say only to earn a sigh.
"Look if you need help then accept help, there's no need to get all noble just because you don't want to inconvenience people. Now do you need my help with that or not?"
The shorter red clad teen said his voice short and holding very little patience for beating around the bush. The larger red clad teen stared at his older alternate self with a stunned look, not quite used to being spoken to so bluntly and shortly. Nor was he used to being seen so well then the way he'd just experienced. Raph wasn't the type to bother people with things like this, not wanting to trouble them with little things that he should be able to do himself. He was seventeen after all practically an adult. Yet here he was being essentially called out by this shorter, angrier and ruder variation of himself and he honestly had no idea how to respond to it. So instead of thinking too much about it he just gave a small nod embarrassed.
".......Fine can you help me get this off my shell....?"
The snapping turtle asked his voice small sounding as he felt the embarrassment of the situation hit him. Raphael on the other hand didn't bother to acknowledge it, instead taking it at a completely normal face value and placed his damp towel into the laundry basket.
"Yeah I can help you. We'll need to go to my room though seeing as how you're huge and I'll need to ya know have access."
The older Hamato said already stepping by Raph and making his way towards his bedroom so he could help the younger teen. Raph only took a moment to follow the two red turtles not saying a word to one another as they made their way to Raphael's room. It didn't take long and before Raph knew it he was sitting cross legged on Raphael's bedroom floor surrounded by comic books and weapons and weights. A punching bag sat in the corner of the room and a pinboard full of pictures filled the wall near the bed. Raphael had placed himself on the bed, a small trashcan beside his foot and the older turtle began to pick out the shredded remains of the water balloon. As he did this Raph took his time to look more throughly around the bedroom, curious about his older counterpart's life. Dark green hues scanned the living space finally landing on that pinboard full of pictures that were pinned up along with various other things such as childhood trinkets and drawings and cards. The snapping turtle's gaze flickered over the photos, taking notice of each of them. In one corner there was an old family photo of Raphael and his brothers, all small children. Another photo was one of them as younger teenagers, perhaps fifteen years old all of them smiling at the camera in their own ways. Standing behind them was Master Splinter, a small smile of his own on his face. Another family photo was there as well but now there were two humans in the picture. One was of a teenage boy with wild and messy black hair that was tied with a black and grey bandanna and dark brown eyes full of mischievous glee, a large smile full of a few missing teeth greeting him. He had his arm over Raphael in the picture. The other human was a teenage girl with bright red hair that was held up in a headband and ponytail, her face full of light freckles and a sweet smile. Steely blue eyes smiled back at him from the photo.
'Wonder who they are?'
Raph mused before his attention was on another photo. This one was of Raphael who looked a lot younger, holding what looked like a pet turtle in a gentle yet firm hold. The turtle child was smiling in the picture holding his pet with glee.
"You had a pet turtle?"
Raph found himself asking without thinking about it. Raphael who was busy picking the pieces of the balloon out stiffened at the question, stilling all his movements.
"........Yeah I did. His name was Spike."
Raphael finally answered his voice gruff and surprisingly soft as he slowly resumed his task. Raph felt his skin prickle at the sudden tone change, realizing that he had asked about a sensitive topic.
"Uh sorry I don't mean to be nosy about your life. I was just wondering is all."
The large teen said his nervous sweat beginning up again. The snapping turtle wasn't usually a nervous person when it came to these things, but he had no idea how to act or respond to Raphael. The shorter turtle seemed to radiate an aura of don't talk to me and it was difficult to figure out how to go about it. As Raph internally scrambled to figure out what to say Raphael meanwhile had noticed that sudden nervousness of the larger red turtle and couldn't help but mentally scold himself for being so blunt and unapproachable. While most of the time it was his intended goal, given the circumstances currently he had to at least try to be somewhat open with getting to know Raph. So with a deep breath and a small mental pep talk Raphael spoke up.
"Is this some kind of thing that you and your brothers do? Always apologize for things that's out of your control? Cause that's gonna get pretty old, pretty fast."
The older turtle said bluntly making the younger turtle sweat a bit more.
"If you're curious about stuff I won't shut you down, and if it's something that I don't want you to know then I won't answer it."
The older Hamato continued making sure that his message was getting across to the snapping turtle. Said snapping turtle was quiet for a moment processing what Raphael was saying before he let out a sigh and finally relaxed somewhat.
"Okay, I'll lay off on the apologies and take your word for it."
The red clad turtle said deciding to just go with it and trust the older teen. If Raphael said that it was fine to ask him things and to just talk to him then he'd do it. It was better for him in the long run given that Raph didn't like to think too much about these kinds of things, it made situations much more complicated than they needed to be.
".....Spike, it's a nice name for a pet, can you tell me what he was like?"
Raph asked breaking the ice somewhat. Raphael was quiet again seemingly taken his time before he answered.
"Spike was my best friend, he was my go too whenever I was angry or upset. We did everything together, we were basically family."
Raphael said his voice sounding reminiscent of his pet as he answered Raph. Raph remained quiet waiting for the older turtle to continue should he choose to, getting the gut feeling that pushing him wouldn't end well.
"But after a mutagen incident things......weren't the same anymore. He'd mutated and some stuff happened......but it was a long time ago."
The older turtle finished awkwardly not wanting to give out too much details. The younger turtle gave him a small sympathetic look out of the corner of his eye, before letting it go already getting the hint that the older red turtle didn't want to talk about it too much.
"There, your shell's free of the balloon."
Raphael said simply sitting himself back onto his bed to stretch himself out a bit. Raph stood up to get the blood flowing into his legs again and turned to the other turtle with a small smile.
"Thanks man, you really helped me out there."
Raph said sincere in his gratitude. Raphael awkwardly looked away obviously embarrassed by the thanks and waved him off.
"It's nothing don't mention it."
Raphael said gruff and mumbled as he seemed to shy away from the open gratitude from the younger turtle. Raph stared at his doppelganger for a moment, the atmosphere between them growing awkward somewhat. The snapping turtle rubbed his neck a bit as he tried to figure out what his next move was.
'Should I try to talk to him more? Or should I just leave him be? Ugh but if I leave him alone now I might not get a chance to talk to him again! Come on Raph it's literally you! Surely you can talk to yourself!'
The younger Hamato berated himself. As the poor teen struggled to figure out what to do next the sudden sound of a loud squeak filled his ear. Raph about jumped out of his scaly skin.
"HOLY HELL WHAT-?!"
The snapping turtle said spooked as he was once again greeted with the same squeaking. Raphael's head had snapped around at Raph's exclamation searching for any signs of danger before his light green hues landed on the larger turtle's massive shoulders and caught sight of the thing that was now perched in between one of them and the snapping turtle's spiky shell.
"Chompy-! You little rascal what are you doing?!?"
The older red clad turtle said making the younger one stiffen in confusion and turn his dark green hues in the direction Raphael was staring at. As soon as he did he was met with a small reddish purple turtle, who had snuggled into his shell somewhat. The tiny turtle let out another high pitched squeak and churred up at him. Raph's eyes went wide with shock at seeing the small animal while Raphael had gotten up from the bed and reached up to take Chompy off of Raph's shoulders.
"You can't be doing that stuff! You could have gotten hurt what if you'd fallen off???"
The older Hamato scolded the small turtle who seemed to be completely unbothered by the scolding instead making churring and chirping noises at the short turtle. Raph on the other hand was watching all of this his entire body trembling with massive effort to not completely lose his mind over the tiny creature that had climbed up on him.
"Oh my pizza supreme he's so tiny.........I wanna pet him so badly oh me gosh."
Raph whispered absolutely star struck with the small turtle. Raphael blinked up at the larger turtle having heard him and saw the longing look of a man desperate to pet something adorable. The shorter teen couldn't help but smirk a bit at the display.
Finally he could have something that he could comfortably talk about.
"You can if you want Raph. Chompy loves being petted."
Raphael said smirking a bit more when he was met with the disbelieving look of Raph.
"Can I seriously pet him? And his name is Chompy?? That's so freaking cute oh my God."
The snapping turtle said enthusiastic about the alien turtle.
"Yeah you can pet him, go on."
The older turtle said holding out his beloved pet. Chompy let out a loud and happy squeak at the younger turtle, his small tail wagging a bit in excitement. Raph at that moment was a goner, with a gentle hand he reached out and with a feather like touch began to pet Chompy's head. The little turtle seemed to vibrate in pure happiness as he started to churr loudly making Raph's face break out into a soft smile, his snaggletooth poking out.
"You're the most sweetest thing I've ever met, an absolute sweetheart."
The snapping turtle cooed earning more cheerful and joyful noises from Chompy. Raphael just watched the two of them content to stay quiet and let Raph pet the small pet turtle.
"So how did you get Chompy? And what kind of species is he?"
Raph asked curious about the colorful turtle. Raphael's gaze seemed to brighten up and he started to explain the story of how Chompy came into his care. Raph listened the entire time, petting the alien turtle and hanging onto Raphael's every word. For the first time since he'd spoken to his older alternate self Raphael actually seemed relaxed and approachable, the usually angry aura that he had around him had softened quite a bit. The large snapping turtle could only think of a few moments where he'd seen Raphael's aura relax and it was around his brothers. So seeing him do the same thing that he did with his brothers to him made Raph feel like he accomplished something big.
'It may not be the biggest step in the bonding area but it's definitely a start. Raph's got this in the bag.'
He thought pleased that he and his older counterpart weren't in an awkward atmosphere anymore. Now all that remained was a somewhat more open atmosphere between them and Raph couldn't be more relived and thrilled by it. However like many moments they're bound to come to an end when the sound of someone knocking on Raphael's door interrupted the two red clad turtles.
"Ralph? You in here with your alternate self?"
A voice belonging to Donnie sounded from the other side of the door. Raph felt his smile fade at his little brother's tone of voice, his big brother senses going off.
'Something's wrong.'
"Yeah Donnie we're in here, is everything okay??"
Raph asked serious and quickly growing concerned. Raphael had placed Chompy down onto his bed, his once relaxed aura now tense and serious as he quietly listened to Raph and Donnie.
"Oh good, I don't know to look for you both then. Your presence is needed in the living room, Don and I have something we need to discuss."
Donnie said serious and blunt. Raph felt a sense of dread hit him and he swallowed hard his throat suddenly dry.
"Alright we'll be right out Donnie."
The snapping turtle said earning a hum of confirmation from his soft shell little on the other side of the door. The soft sounds of Donnie's quick footsteps fading away from the door filled the sudden heavy atmosphere. Raph and his shorter counterpart remained silent, their postures a bit tense. It was only a beat before Raphael broke it.
"We should get going, don't want Donnie and.....Donnie to lose their patience."
The red clad turtle said already making his way towards the door. The larger red clad turtle followed close behind him, the two of them knowing only one thing.
When Donnie and Donatello were serious it meant bad news in the long run.
~~~~~
New York City.
It was a city full of life, pulsing with lights and music and people and cars and other noises. It was a city that was loud and packed and it was home to many who loved the city. Amongst those people who resided within this bustling city, a young woman of nineteen was currently making her way towards the alleyways, making sure that she wasn't being followed by anyone. Clutched within her hand was a cellphone in the shape of a turtle shell, the adorable piece of technology now currently pressed against her ear.
"Trouble myself? As if I'll let you guys do this on your own!........I'll be down there soon, don't you dare start without me Dee........of course I will.....see you soon."
The girl said ending the call with a small sigh. Snapping her cellphone closed she placed it within her pocket, making sure that it was tucked safely away. The sounds of her boots hitting the pavement filled the air, as she weaved herself through the crowds of people whenever she'd passed them. After a few minutes of weaving and dodging the crowds of people she'd finally reached her destination. The more decrypted part of the city wasn't exactly the safest place to be in however it was also the type of place where she'd be able to get to where she needed to go so she could get to the people who needed her. It didn't take her long to get to the alleyway and with one last discreet look around and she disappeared into the alleyway. With confidence strides she finally made it to the manhole cover, bending down she grabbed the edge of it and began to pull the heavy weight to move it aside. It took a lot of effort but she managed to do it, once she could fit through the opening she dropped down onto the ladder, using a bit of her powers to help pull the manhole back over the opening so no one would be able to follow her nor would they be able to get hurt.
Climbing down the ladder she finally reached the slimy and wet ground of the sewers. The sounds of her boots hitting the ground sounded throughout the sewers echoing tunnels yet she paid no mind to them instead focusing on getting herself safely to the lair. Steel blue hues glanced around the sewers as she walked, her bright red ponytail swaying with each step as she walked deeper into the sewers. The scent of the sewers made her nose crinkle up slightly but otherwise she ignored it. There had once been a time when she'd been younger that the sewers and their smell had bothered her but after doing this routine for a good few years now she'd grown to get used to it. The girl continued to walk humming softly underneath her breath as she continued on her way, drawing closer and closer to the lair. After about a half hour of walking the somewhat dark tunnels she'd finally heard voices coming up from further ahead. Picking up her pace she quickly made her way to the entranceway of the lair, stepping down the stairs and coming up to the gateway. Immediately upon entering she felt the familiar energies hitting her like a loving embrace. She felt the chaotic and energetic aura of the youngest of her boys, the nervous yet kind aura of the second youngest, the angry and protective aura of the second eldest and finally the calm and soothing aura of the eldest of her boys.
'They're all here and safe.'
She thought relieved before she felt the pangs of sadness that sprinkled their auras, making her instantly concerned.
'Something had upset them recently, really badly kind of upset, gonna have to check into that.'
She thought making a mental note to check up on the boys once they'd all spoken about what was going on. Entering further into the lair she realized that her boys weren't the only ones who were in the lair, but rather there were four more people here. Auras and energies, familiar yet foreign hit her full force making her senses go a bit haywire as they tried to identify who they were. The first new aura was similar to the youngest of the boys, chaotic and energetic but a lot more unrestrained. There was something else there as well, an energy that was buried underneath as if it hadn't been fully awakened yet. The second aura was much more colder than the first one, yet kindness filled it as well. The third one was protective, and somewhat nervous as if it was bubbling somewhat. Like a volcano waiting to erupt slowly. The last one was erratic and soothing, yet there was an under current of unease and being lost that made her heart twist for it. As she tried to familiarize herself with these new energies and auras she barely noticed the presence behind her until a familiar hand on her shoulder made her snap back to the world surrounding her. Blinking her steel blue hues she turned them towards the person who had placed a hand on her shoulder, familiar warm dark blue hues meeting hers. She couldn't help but smile a bit happy to see the person who was one of her closest friends.
"Hey Leo, hope I didn't make you guys wait for too long."
She said her voice soft and warm as she apologized for her tardiness. Leonardo just smiled warmly at her and gave her shoulder a small squeeze.
"We weren't waiting long. Donnie's made sure that the meeting wouldn't start without you. Now come on, let's go introduce you to everyone."
Leonardo said his voice scratchy yet genuine as he let her go and the two began to make their way towards the living room. Voices both familiar and unfamiliar to her greeted her ears as they stepped into the living room. The girl looked around catching sight of her other boys fairly quickly. Raphael was next to Michelangelo the two bickering somewhat as they talked. Donatello was near the center of the pit area a few folders in his arms as he looked through them his tongue peeking out slightly. Among her boys were faces unrecognizable to her. Four other turtles all looking a bit younger than them and wearing slightly brighter shades of the older turtles colors. They were talking to one another and to her boys, their conversations varing topic to topic. She and Leonardo stood there for a moment their presence going unnoticed by the rest. Leonardo took a deep breath, clearing his throat up and before she realized what he was going to do it was already too late.
"Guys! She's here!"
Leonardo said his tone louder than it usually was, his voice cracking harshly from the strain of being raised volume wise. Seven heads turned towards them, the four younger ones looking spooked by the harsh cracking voice of Leonardo while the three older ones looked like they were torn between yelling at their blue clad brother or greeting her. Glaring at him as well she let out a concerned and angry hiss of sorts.
"Leo you can't be doing that kind of stunt!"
She hissed softly as to not be heard by the newer turtles. Leonardo just gave her a look and shrugged it off as they both had a silent conversation.
'When this meeting is over you are so going to pay for pulling a stunt like that, and that's a promise.'
Steely blue eyes said full of a stern look that promised a long lecture later.
'Oh I don't have a doubt that you will. You and my brothers will both see to it.'
Dark blue eyes replied already knowing what was in store afterwards. The two were taken out of their silent stare down by the one turtle in purple who was standing next to Donatello.
"Not to break up the moment but who exactly is this girl?"
He asked his tone holding a somewhat sharp edge to it. Donatello shot the other turtle a look that he ignored and the girl took no offense to it.
"I was about to explain that."
Leonardo said turning his attention to her and began introductions and gesturing to each of the new turtles.
"These are our newest guests. Leo, Raph, Donnie and Mikey. They're us from a different reality. Guys this is-"
Leonardo said introducing the alternate turtles and went to continue but the girl took over from there, to spare her friend's vocal chords which were still recovering from the stunt from earlier and as a way to be slightly petty to show her displeasure at said stunt.
"April. April O'Neil, it's a pleasure to meet you boys."
April said seeing Leonardo giving her a slightly knowing irritation look to which she responded with a small smirk of her own. The four new turtles eyes went wide with shock.
"APRIL???"
Four voices shouted followed immediately by several questions being thrown at her and the older boys. April let out another sigh rubbing her temples lightly to mentally prepare herself.
'This is going to be a long meeting.'
~~~~~
New York City.
It was a city unlike any other, filled with people and other strange things not of this world. It was a city that was filled with mystery and beings unseen by the world of humanity. A city of bright lights, of spirits and yokai who wander beneath the colorful neon lights of shops and restaurants. And beneath the bustling city laid another city surrounded by mystical power and protection, guarding yokai and mutants alike. Yet upon the surface of New York a young girl was walking through the streets, her dark brown eyes searching for any signs of a familiar figure or shell. Brushing her dark brown curly bangs from her face she pursed her bright red lips as she was met with nothing but the familiar views of New Yorkers who were all going on their own merry ways, completely oblivious to the teen who was desperately searching for a sign. A sign of the people she loved the most. A sign that evaded her for the past few days, dragging her spirits down some.
'What if I never find them? What if something happened to them? Damnit all where did they go??'
She thought frustrated with her lack of results. She was so deep within her thoughts she didn't realize that her beloved pet had crawled from her bag and into her arms, letting out a small bark of sorts to get her attention. The girl snapped out of her thoughts her dark eyes softening as she scratched behind her pet's ears.
"Sorry Mayhem, I just got distracted is all. Let's go somewhere more private so I can check in."
She said her voice soft and gentle as she tried to get herself together. Mayhem let out a yip of agreement and went to hide back in her bag. Once he was safely inside the girl began to somewhat jog to a much less inhabited area of the city, the sounds of her sneakers hitting the pavement as she weaved through the crowds of people. After a bit of jogging she finally found an alleyway and quickly ducked into it, making sure that she wasn't seen. Once from view, her pet Mayhem peeked his head out once more.
"Alright Mayhem let's go check in."
She said earning a churring coo from the dog like creature. Mayhem's collar began to glow and in a flash of yellow light the teen and her pet had disappeared from the alleyway. The once loud and noisy city was now replaced with silence, the walls of the buildings once around her were gone now replaced by lights of all different colors and sizes that decorated the ceiling. The girl once in a dirty alleyway was now within a lair of sorts. The sounds of footsteps coming into the living room filled the lair and a short and stout figure came scampering out into the living his head looking quickly in both directions to catch a glimpse of four turtles. But alas he was only met with the sight of the teenage girl.
"I'm guessing that they haven't shown up in the lair yet?"
She asked hoping to hear some kind of good news, however that hope was snuffed out by the shake of a head and a pained face.
"No.....the boys haven't shown up here. I was hoping that perhaps they'd be coming back with you....."
The figure, a rat said his voice thick and filled with despair, causing his accent to thicken slightly. His whiskers were twitching and his tail flickered around in unease and distress. It broke the girl's heart to see him like this.
"Don't worry, we'll find them. They couldn't have gone far, knowing the boys wherever they are they're going to find a way back to us. We just got to keep looking for them Splints."
The girl said her dark brown eyes filled with resolve to find her boys. The rat, Splints gave her a small look, his old eyes filled with a pain of a father who's sons were missing without a trace. However they were now filled with that same resolve that she had knowing that what she said was true. His boys would find a way home, they always found their way home.
'From places such as Big Mama's arena to many others they've always come back, I just have to keep looking for my sons.'
The thoughts said making him determined to do just that.
"You're right April.....the boys will find their way back home from wherever they are. And if they can't come back on their own....."
Splints said his voice trailing off.
"Then we'll be there to bring them back. We'll bring them home no matter what."
The girl, April said her tone strong in her conviction to find the turtles that she'd known since childhood. The two would continue looking for the boys, no matter how much time it took they'd never give up on them. But even with the resolve within their hearts they couldn't help but fear the worst. After all it was only a few days ago that they'd been in the lair, laughing and joking around and helping both New York and the Mystic City with rogue foot soldiers and mutants and yokai. A few days ago of seeing Leo, Raph, Donnie and Mikey, of seeing them for what would unknowingly the last time. April could still remember what the boys had said to her and Splints before they'd went out on their routine mission that night.
'Don't worry April we'll be fine, we're only going to be gone for an hour, two hours tops. Just a quick scouting mission nothing serious.'
Leo had said giving her a smile.
'We'll be right back before ya know it April, besides Pops will need us later tonight for some training so we won't be gone long.'
Raph had said ever the comforting big brother.
'We've got this in the bag Ape! It'll be easy peasy!'
Mikey had said smiling that sweet gap toothed smile of his.
'You worry too much April, at this rate you'll turn into Papa with all that worrying. But if it makes you and Papa feel better I give you my Donatello Promise that we'll be back safe and sound within the next few hours.'
Donnie had said even promising her. She'd remembered it all and how she'd let them go alone because Donnie had promised her and Splints and Donnie didn't break his promises. Not to their father, not to their big sister. So she'd let them go, heading home that night to do some of her schoolwork that had needed to be done. She was a senior after all, eighteen years old and getting ready to go to college, she had to study and her boys were strong and fearsome ninjas. They'd be fine.
However they never came back home.
One hour became two, two hours became four and then she was getting a phone call from Splints the older rat asking if the boys had stopped by her apartment. That phone call had thrown the two of them into chaos and they'd been searching relentlessly ever since, coming up empty handed with every search. It was as if the boys had just disappeared from the planet. And that alone scared April and Splints more than they ever thought possible.
'Just hang on a little bit longer guys, we'll find you no matter what.'
April thought her fists clinching up a bit. She felt Splints place a hand on hers and gently pull her towards the kitchen.
"Let's go get something to eat so we can keep up our strength."
The older rat said earning a small nod from April. The two made their way into the kitchen, their heads held high in a determined way but their hearts heavy with the aching loss of the four boys who made up their world.
*Holy shit I'm alive what??? Okay so this took me literally days to get this planned out and to get it started up because work and personal life are trying to lowkey kill my ass lol. Anyways I don't know if this is any good but I wanted to try and do my best with these guys and their interactions. Which is why Raph and Raphael's bonding is somewhat awkward because they're both very awkward people let's be real lol. But don't worry they'll definitely warm up to one another. Also surprise you got not one April but two Aprils wooo!! I apologize if they're out of character I tried. Anyways if any y'all read this I hope you enjoyed it!!!*
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twstgabrielle 2 years
Text
Warning: This fic contains language, supposed major character death and injuries, inaccurate medical stuff as well as a lot of angst. Also there are some major spoilers for the 2012 Tmnt series. If any of this makes you uncomfortable I highly encourage y'all to check out my other works.
Winter.
It was a season full of wonder and magic. A time where people would gather around with one another and spend time with the ones they loved most in the world. Hiding away within their warm and cozy homes to sit around the fire and have a warm drink with one another, snuggled closely underneath blankets or sweaters and hoodies. Basking within one another's presence. Winter meant cold mornings full of sparkling snow and the air's harsh and biting atmosphere would play at those who were outside within it's elements. Winter was a season where the world would begin to shift into the magical pull of the holidays, where children and adults alike would have their spirits risen by the unexplainable enchantment of the season.
It was a season that the Hamato family had enjoyed quite a bit. Whenever winter would come to greet the busy and noisy streets of the lively City known as New York, the four sons of the family would eagerly sit beneath the drainage openings that lined the sidewalks and manholes, watching the flurry of snowflakes while bundled up tightly within their warm clothes and scarves while their cautious father would warmly watch the four children and their childish wonder filled looks as they enjoyed the season in the only way they could. From the moment they'd been able to walk and take in their surroundings, it'd become a tradition for the family of five. Master Splinter would keep an eye on the weather reports and the world above, awaiting for the first sign of the first snowfall of the season and once he was sure he'd gather his four small children and they'd watch the beautiful scene together, becoming swept within the magical and enchanting atmosphere.
It was one of Raphael's favorite things to do, though the red clad turtle would never admit such a sentimental thing out loud. But whenever winter would start to slowly creep up he'd find himself becoming excited to see that first snowfall of the season through those small little drainage holes that led to the world above them. To sit beside his brothers and watch the stunning sight sitting side by side with them, huddled together in a small little turtle pile with their father close by. As he grew older, he became a bit more embarrassed by these things such as touching and cuddling with his brothers, instead growing a bit defensive whenever it was brought up or when it damaged his pride. And for a good few years he'd remain like that, snapping slightly or being a smart aleck whenever he would become somewhat emotional vulnerable. His brothers of course were undeterred by his tough exterior and would always manage to rope him in with the tradition. And like many teenagers he'd grown to somewhat resent and take these moments for granted, never truly appreciating just how precious they were.
And now Raphael was paying the price. It was cold in the bathroom, the winter's harsh and chilling air biting into his dark scaly skin and causing him to shiver despite the blankets that were wrapped around his frame. Bathrooms weren't exactly the warmest place to be camping out in, especially in the harsh season of winter and within an extremely old farmhouse that was still within the process of being fixed up to be livable in. In fact the smartest thing that the fifteen year old could possibly do would be to head to his bedroom and crawl beneath the blankets that would undoubtedly protect him from the chilling he was experiencing. However this choice never once crossed his mind, never once did it ever make itself known to him. No instead he stayed put within the bathroom, sitting on the old chair that sat beside the bathtub next to him, refusing to leave the room despite how cold he was. Raphael's bright green eyes slowly turned their attention to the bathtub, taking in the figure that laid within its porcelain walls. Not thinking about he the red clad turtle reached over, sticking the tips of his fingers into the water, relieved to feel that it was still somewhat warm. Pulling his fingers out of the water Raphael leaned back on his chair, bringing the blankets that cradled his shoulders even closer to him.
Keeping his gaze on the unconscious form in the bathtub he took in the little details that he never noticed before. He took in the old and new scars that marred the lighter shaded scaly skin, the way the knee was bent in a somewhat weird position to help it heal from the trauma it received, to the cracks that decorated the chest plate healing themselves slowly, to the fading brusies that had painted the base of his throat. Raphael forced himself to look away from the person in the tub, and focused on the other things within the bathroom before he finally landed his sharp gaze onto the clock above the door. The hands of the ancient clock had settled onto the current time making Raphael suck in a somewhat shaky breath.
"11:49 huh....? That gives us about eleven, ten minutes before midnight."
Raphael muttered to himself his eyes slowly turning back to the person next to him.
"And when it's midnight, that means it'll officially be the beginning of Christmas. Ain't that some weird shit Fearless?"
Raphael asked his voice soft and tight, staring at the unconscious form of his older brother Leonardo. The eldest brother didn't respond to the second eldest, instead his eyes remained closed, his body unmoving save for the gentle rise and fall of his chest. Raphael felt a sharp pain hit him square in his chest as he was greeted with silence save for the gentle dripping sounds of the water from the leaky faucet. It was a sound that Raphael had grown used to, a sound of water and silence and soft breathing. It was a sound that at one time meant nothing, it now meant waiting for his older brother to wake up and end the oppressive and ominous silence that plagued the bathroom for the past few weeks. Throat tightening Raphael couldn't help but think about just how screwed up his life was. Couldn't help but think about how only a few weeks ago he'd been in New York City, living in his home with his father and brothers and April and Casey. Couldn't help but think of how simple and serene and peaceful his life had been only a few weeks ago.
'Where did it go so wrong...? Why did it go so wrong....?'
The questions buzzed about in his head, filling his mind with unwanted memories of that awful and horrific night. Memories of being powerless as he, his brothers, April and Casey were forced to watch as their enemy, the Shredder had murdered Master Splinter before their very eyes. Memories of watching his master, his father's body being tossed into the sewer system and pulled away by the fierce and raging icy waters to his death, of his brothers horrified screams along with April's and his own. Memories of Casey and Michelangelo holding him back from trying to kill the monster who took their father away from them, of Michelangelo begging him to come on and telling him that they needed to find Leonardo. Memories of an apartment living room and receiving the news that Leonardo was still missing, only to have his broken and beaten body thrown through April's window and right at his and his brothers feet. He could see it as clear as day, crystal clear and vivid, could still hear his voice and his brothers horrified shouts as they rushed to their unconscious and fatally injured brother. Donatello's horror filled gasp as he looked Leonardo over, Michelangelo's terrified voice as he saw the cracked shell. All of it on full display like a movie that he couldn't pause for the life of him.
Raphael's hands gripped the edges of his blankets, his knuckles turning nearly white from the strain. He felt his heart pound, the bump-bump loud in his ears as he recalled it all, as he recalled how he had to take the lead, recalled how he and what was left of his family had to retreat and escape from the city before the Kraang or the Shredder got ahold of them. Raphael's throat constricted as he was hit with a wave of anger, frustration, grief and guilt. His eyes burned and he found himself struggling to keep it together, to keep himself above the waves of his emotional turmoil. He should have been there, should have argued with Leonardo about going alone, should had known that something terrible would happen. He should have been there for his brother, should of had his back when he needed him the most. But he hadn't, he hadn't been there for Leonardo, just as he hadn't been there for Master Splinter. He had failed them. Raphael felt himself choke a bit on this knowledge the guilt and grief he felt hot and burning him from the inside out. Raphael felt his memories and emotions hit him at lightening speeds, drowning him and pulling him underneath their currents. Lost within the storm he didn't notice the two figures who had came into the bathroom until he'd felt a familiar embrace around him.
"It's.....it's okay Raphie......it's okay....."
A voice childish and full of tears pulled Raphael from his current position forcing him back to reality. Bright green eyes full of pain and grief met bright baby blues that were swimming with tears. Raphael sucked in a sharp breath as he realized that Michelangelo was the one hugging him tightly. Standing behind the orange clad turtle was Donatello, the tall turtle looking no better than his younger brother.
"Raph.....oh Raph it's okay.....we......we miss them too....."
Donatello said understanding immediately before he too rushed forward to hug their older brother. Raphael stiffened at the contact, enveloped within the arms of his little brothers who just like him were hurting and full of grief and guilt. Raphael found himself letting go of his blankets and wrapping his arms around his little brothers, clinging to them tightly as if he was afraid that they too would end up leaving him behind. The three brothers didn't say anything for a long time, instead just basking in each other's presence and remaining close to their comatose older brother. After what felt like an eternity the three brothers finally separated, their eyes slightly red and puffy. None of them commented on it, instead choosing to not acknowledge it. Donatello turned his attention towards the tub to check on Leonardo, his hands gentle and skillful as he did his checkup on their blue clad brother. Michelangelo sat on the floor by Raphael's legs and had reached into the tub to take hold of Leonardo's hand.
"Hey Leo.....I hope that your nap is going good and that you're getting better. I just wanted to say Merry Christmas bro.....and that we miss you....."
Michelangelo said his tone soft and full of forced cheer, but it was obvious that he was struggling to keep it together. Raphael felt his heart drop at what his little brother said and found his gaze snapping up to the clock again quickly realizing that yes it was now past midnight and that it was officially Christmas. His heart gave a nasty twist within his chest as the knowledge that it was truly Christmas and that Leonardo and Master Splinter weren't there with them, that this Christmas was the first one in their entire lives hit him. Judging by Michelangelo's shaking arm that was currently gripping Leonardo's hand and Donatello's tight frown on his face they were realizing this too.
"Mikey's right......we miss you Leo........please come back home soon....."
Donatello said his voice cracking a bit as he fought with his emotions. Michelangelo reached out with his other hand to give Donatello's arm a comforting squeeze earning a watery look from his older brother. Raphael watched them feeling like the world was crumbling around them.
"We're waiting for you to wake up Leo, so you better do it soon.....Christmas isn't the same without you here."
Raphael said gruffly, his voice wavering. The two younger brothers looked over at their red brother already understanding what he was saying. The trio of turtles went quiet after that, just sitting near their oldest brother in an attempt to reassure themselves that Leonardo was still there with them despite being in a coma, wanting nothing more than to be with him that Christmas morning. While they sat there silently, basking in Leonardo's presence as well as each other's the three turtles suddenly felt a shift within the bathroom and three pairs of eyes snapped towards the doorway. Standing in the doorway was April and Casey. The two human teens were obviously not okay, giving their own pained looks. April looked at the trio, her steel blue eyes full of understanding.
"Do you mind if we join you guys for Christmas?"
The red head asked, her voice soft.
"If not then it's completely fine bro."
Casey piped up his dark brown eyes full of sympathy. The trio of turtles looked at their friends their gazes softening at them.
"April, Casey you're both always welcome to join us."
Donatello said his reddish brown eyes full of exhaustion but sincerity.
"Yeah dudes, you're always welcome to join us and hang, especially on Christmas."
Michelangelo said his voice a little bit more lighter than it had been.
"You're family, both of you. Now get your asses in here we don't want to let anymore cold air in here. Leo needs all the warmth he can get."
Raphael said his tone serious and a bit more put together. April and Casey didn't need any further encouragement, already stepping inside the small bathroom and closing the door behind them. April was quick to sit herself next to Donatello, her blanket quickly extended to him to help warm him up. Donatello was quick to accept the silent offer already going to snuggle up against her. Casey meanwhile went next to Raphael, his own blankets wrapped around himself however he was quick to pass one of them to Michelangelo which the youngest turtle quickly accepted and wrapped himself up in it. Once they were all settled into their warm bundles and they were all somewhat close to their comatose brother, the group of five slowly began to grow sleepy, feeling somewhat relaxed now that all six of them were together. One by one they drifted off till all that remained awake was Raphael and Donatello. The two brothers were silent as they watched their remaining loved ones sleep, looking somewhat peaceful for the first time in the last few weeks. Raphael looked up at Donatello meeting his reddish brown gaze.
"So.....how's he doing?"
Raphael asked his voice soft and blunt. Donatello seemed to take a deep breath his expression exhausted and somewhat grave.
"I.....I don't know. If I'm being honest with the extent of Leo's injuries he.....he may never actually wake up....."
Donatello said giving the most truthful answer. The purple turtle watched as his older brother flinched slightly as if he'd been punched in the face, completely understanding the reaction.
'What a terrible way to find out about this......on Christmas morning of all the things.'
Donatello couldn't help but think his own gut sinking at the knowledge that Leonardo may never wake up. And he knew that Raphael was feeling the same way. Donatello didn't even want to think about Leonardo not waking up, didn't want to think about the possibility of his older brother remaining comatose forever. It was a possibility that should it come to pass Donatello as well as his family would never be able to recover from it.
'We can't lose Leo, we've already lost Master Splinter if we lose Leo too.....'
Donatello felt his throat tighten once more at the dreadful thoughts however he was snapped out of them by Raphael.
"He'll wake up. Leo's the strongest and most stubborn person we know, he's fearless and he's not a quitter. He'll pull through, we just have to wait for him Donnie."
Raphael said his voice strong and full of a belief that made Donatello stare at him in slight surprise. But the more he thought about Leonardo and just how his big brother was the more Donatello believed in what Raphael said.
"You're right. Leo will pull through. He always does in the end."
Donatello said trying to give Raphael a smile however his mouth wobbled slightly as he tried to hold onto hope. Raphael gave Donatello a small smile to help ease him and got himself settled into his chair careful not to wake up Michelangelo or Casey.
"Get some sleep Donnie, we've got a long day ahead of us today."
Raphael said using his best no arguing voice. Donatello yawned and nodded already knowing what his red clad brother was talking about. Snuggling up with April Donatello slowly drifted off as well leaving Raphael alone in the waking world. The oldest brother watched over his family for awhile, content on just being there with them. Raphael found himself gazing around the bathroom once more his eyes landing on the window and he caught sight of snowflakes fluttering in the darkness. He thought about the first snowfall of that year, how he and his family's tradition hadn't happened that year. He thought about how instead of him and his family being within the sewers to watch it they had instead had been in April's apartment and had ended up losing Master Splinter and Leonardo. Raphael felt his heart twist and he forced himself to get a grip, thinking about what he told Donatello. Looking back towards Leonardo, Raphael took in his older brother and his other family members, and how despite their situation they were still together and just how precious it truly was. As the hot headed turtle slowly drifted off he promised himself that as soon as Leonardo was awake and moving once more he'd make sure that he and his family would never have to have another Christmas like this one. He'd rather die than let it happen again.
~~~~~
Raphael Hamato sat within the lair, no longer fifteen years old but now a grown man of eighteen. The red clad turtle was relaxing on the couch enjoying the peaceful moment despite all the people who were currently within his home. Gazing lazily around he caught sight of Michelangelo and his younger doppelganger Mikey chatting away with one another and playing video games. Over by the pinball machines was Raph and Donnie who were cheering for Leo and Donatello who were currently going up against one another in the game, their voices full of excitement and free of the responsibilities that they usually carried. Sitting in the kitchen was April and Casey who were watching the two groups with amusement as they spoke with one another. However there was one person missing from these groups of turtles and humans. Raphael found himself sitting up a bit to try and locate the missing member of his small family however he didn't have to look for long.
"Ya know sitting all by yourself isn't the most healthy thing to do."
A voice crocking and full of teasing amusement came from beside him. Raphael flickered his eyes towards the source of the voice, bright green eyes meeting twinkling dark blue ones. Leonardo had sat himself down next to Raphael a smile on his face. Raphael gave a huff of amusement and sent his older brother a smirk.
"Never said I was going for the healthy way Fearless, plus I like sitting alone. It's peaceful, besides you can't judge me since I've seen you do the exact same thing."
Raphael said tone teasing. The red clad turtle felt his heart lighten up with content satisfaction when he was rewarded Leonardo's laughter. It was a sound that Raphael adored, a sound that wasn't heard too often these days and every time he managed to get a laugh out of him Raphael was filled with pride at having accomplished his mission.
"You got me there Raph. Well if you don't mind I'll just join you in your self assigned peaceful solitude."
Leonardo said with a bright smile. Raphael just snorted and waved him off.
"Go ahead and make yourself comfortable. We can enjoy the peaceful solitude together till one of our brothers disrupts it."
Raphael said as he watched Leonardo get settled into the seat next to him on the couch. The second eldest child couldn't help but notice just how relaxed Leonardo was, and just how grown up he was. He took in all the scars and all the nicks in his chest plate and shell, took in just how alive and well Leonardo was and he felt his heart soar with just how lucky he was to have Leonardo there with him and their family.
'After everything we've been through, after all the close calls and sacrifices we've had, we still managed to get through it.'
He thought pleased and happy that he still had his family. That Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, April and Casey were still with him. As Raphael thought about it he couldn't help but think about all the trails they'd faced and all the precious moments that they all shared. As he thought about it a flash of memory hit him, of tiny turtles and their beloved father gathering beneath storm drains as they all watched the first snowfall of the season together. He thought about that precious memory and how he'd nearly lost the chance to have those kinds of moments with all of his brothers and before he realized it he'd opened his mouth and spoke up.
"Do you remember that tradition we all used to do back when.....when Master Splinter was still with us?"
Raphael asked not daring to look at his older brother afraid that he didn't remember.
"Tradition.....you mean the first snowfall one? Of course I remember it how could I forget it??"
Leonardo said his tone filling with a fond nostalgia at it.
"Yeah that one......I was thinking about it and......I think we should do that again this year."
Raphael said his voice getting a bit gruff like as he felt his embarrassment kick in. However his embarrassment didn't last long as he felt a hand pat his shell and was met with a beaming smile.
"That sounds like an amazing plan Raph, we'll do it as soon as the winter season starts."
Leonardo said his tone a bit crackly in his slight enthusiasm. Raphael went to say something before he felt a body tackle him from behind the couch making him lean forward with an oof.
"Dudes are we really gonna do the snowfall tradition?!? It's been ages bros!!!"
Michelangelo said his voice loud in his childish excitement. Raphael growled struggling to get his little brother off of him.
"Mikey get off of me you little-"
He began to growl out in irritation only to be interrupted by another voice coming from Leonardo's direction.
"I can set up the TPhones to keep an eye on the weather forecasts come autumn and I can upgrade my computer to keep a more detailed account for the first snowfall of the winter season."
Donatello said, leaning over the back of the couch as he watched Raphael and Michelangelo bicker somewhat in amusement as he spoke to the trio.
"That's a great idea Don, that'll help us keep better track and be more prepared."
Leonardo said sounding proud of Donatello's thinking. The purple turtle seemed to get flustered and was about to say something when they were all interrupted by another voice chiming in.
"Snowfall tradition? What's that??"
Mikey's voice piped up having followed his older doppelganger to see what was going on. Behind him were his own brothers who were all just as curious as him about what the older turtles were talking about.
"Only the best thing in the world little dude-!! Every year we'd watch the weather and see when the first snowfall would hit New York! Once we figured it out all of us would go to one of the manholes or drainage openings and watch!! It was one of the best things of the whole year!!"
Michelangelo said his baby blues sparkling. Mikey's own light brown hues seemed to catch the sparkle that Michelangelo's had and was quickly filled with just as much excitement as his older counterpart.
"Oh me gosh that sounds so cool!"
Mikey squealed with delight.
"I know right??? Oh dude you and your bros should totally join us it'd be rocking!!!"
Michelangelo squealed right back. The two orange clad turtles had quickly went off the rails in their excitement oblivious to their surroundings.
"Miguel I don't think that's-"
Donnie began to say only to be cut off.
"Is that it's still a bit early for something like that and we should probably wait before we all make any plans like that."
Raph said shooting Donnie a pointed look. The soft shell just gave his older brother an unamused look.
"It honestly sounds hella sick, Lee why didn't you guys say something this is like the most awesome tradition."
Leo piped up leaning on Leonardo who just gave him a bemused look.
"Never really came up."
The older blue clad turtle responded earning a mock offended gasp from his younger counterpart. At this point April and Casey had joined the group of eight, having caught what was being discussed.
"That sounds like a fun time! I think we should give it a shot and do it this year."
April chirped obviously getting a bit ecstatic about the idea. Casey was grinning widely next to her as he leaned on Donatello who gave a grunt but otherwise remained silent.
"Red's right that would be wicked to see."
The hockey player said. Soon the room was filled with voices and excitement at the tradition and plans on how they'd all go about. Raphael at this point had given up trying to get Michelangelo off of him and instead took in the sight of the people around him and realized just how truly lucky he was to have them in his life. He took in the sight of his brothers, of Donatello who was the mind behind them to Michelangelo who was the heart of their family, to April who was the inspiration, to Casey who was the carefree nature, to Leonardo who was the spirit of their family. He took them all in and thought of all the times that he'd nearly lost them, to all the times that they'd faced together, every moment, every fight, every challenge and tragedy and laughter. All of them they'd faced together, all of them they'd made it through. These five people were Raphael's strength and his very reason to keep going and he couldn't imagine life without them by his side.
But they weren't the only ones he was fighting for now.
No he was fighting for their younger counterparts as well.
Raphael had somewhere along the line had began to consider them apart of his group of those who he'd die for and just like his brothers he would do whatever he could to keep them safe.
'I've lost a lot of people within my life, and have nearly lost my brothers more times than I could count. But no matter the odds we'll always be together, because that's what we do.'
Raphael felt a small quirk of a smile on his face, a feeling of contentment filling him. However that smile was completely wiped off and replaced with flustered shock by Michelangelo's next statement.
"Hey we should totally invite Mona! She'd love it, and I bet she'd love snuggling up with Raph-"
Michelangelo began to say before Raphael's bright red face filled his vision.
"Mikey-!!!"
The lair was filled with shouts and laughter and questions after that but if Raphael was being honest he wouldn't have traded it for the world. After all every moment he spent with his loved ones were moments that he'd cherish forever.
Not that he'd ever admit that.
*Writing practice, writing practice wooooo. To be honest I kinda based this off of my one post I'd made the other day as I'd been struck by the horrifying realization that Raphael, Donatello and Michelangelo had spent Christmas and New Year's alone without Leonardo and Master Splinter after the Invasion of New York's events. After that I'd decided to just start writing and it led me to this confusing mess lol. I honestly tried my best and lowkey I might end up rewriting this but who the hell knows lol. Anyways if any y'all read this I hope you enjoyed it!!!*
56 notes View notes
twstgabrielle 2 years
Text
Reading Guidelines and Warnings: The 2012 boys will be addressed by their full names unless they're talking to one another or about each other. The Rise boys will be addressed by their nicknames. Also they're be spoilers for both shows as well as possible language and mentioned major character death. If any of this makes you uncomfortable I highly encourage y'all to check out my other works.
It'd been a few days since the meeting within the dojo. A few days of the two groups of turtles silently grieving over their lost loved ones and spending time with their own set of brothers. The two groups of teenagers didn't really say much over those few days, instead wanting to focus on trying to heal somewhat so they could focus on their mission to getting the younger set of brothers back home to their reality. Once they'd managed to pick themselves up somewhat they'd finally started taking the first steps towards making their mission become a reality. Which led to the current situation now, that being Donnie and Donatello slaving over their theories and ideas within Donatello's lab. Donnie was sitting at a makeshift workspace that his older counterpart had made for him, staring down at his notes and calculations with a somewhat annoyed look. There wasn't much for Donnie to go on given that he had no real clue as to how he and his brothers came here. So the soft shell was was trying to think of different possibilities for how they were sent to this alternate dimension. Unfortunately anything that could be plausible wasn't making any sense scientifically speaking. And Donnie wasn't the only one struggling with this.
No his older counterpart Donatello seemed to be struggling just as much. The tall turtle genius was leaning over his desk, his tongue peeking out of his mouth as he moved his pencil across the papers in front of him. Surrounding him were crumpled up balls of theories and ideas that just didn't make any sense whatsoever. Donnie peeked up to watch his doppelganger, noting the way his shoulders were tense as he scribbled all over his papers, not seeming to be aware of his surroundings. It was honestly impressive how focused Donatello could get, and his work ethic proved that he was a hard worker, what with his all of his inventions and blueprints scattered all over the somewhat dimly lit lab. Donnie continued to watch him, his dark brown eyes zoned in on the taller turtle as he observed him quietly. The soft shell had been watching so closely in fact that he nearly jumped out of his shell at Donatello's sudden loud snarl.
"UGH I CAN'T FIGURE IT OUT-!"
Donatello snapped grabbing the tails of his purple mask as he forced himself to sit up. Donnie couldn't help but feel sympathetic, completely understanding what the older turtle was feeling. They'd been going at this for a few hours now and neither of them could think of anything that could give them a lead in trying to get Donnie and his brothers back home. The soft shell forced himself to sit up in his seat as well, stretching his arms and earning a few cracks in return for the movement. Turning his computer chair towards Donatello the younger turtle spoke up.
"We're in the same boat my friend. I can't figure this out either which is beyond frustrating."
Donnie said making Donatello turn to look at him. Reddish brown eyes filled with exhaustion and annoyance at himself met his dark brown ones and Donnie couldn't help but mentally flinch at the look.
'Guess it's time to take a break, if we keep this up we'll both be completely useless in the long run.'
The purple genius thought, despite not wanting to take a breather. However he knew logically that if he and Donatello didn't at least step back from this to cool off their mounting frustrations they'd never be able to figure it out. Just as Donnie had come to this conclusion Donatello seemingly did so as well.
"Let's just take a minute to get ourselves together mentally. Wouldn't want to make things more difficult for us in the long run."
Donatello stated in a gruff manner obviously just as displeased with this as Donnie. The soft shell gave a hum of agreement before standing up to get the blood flowing within his legs. Donatello just watched his younger counterpart, obviously not ready to move from his seat yet before going back to his notes, while Donnie decided to snoop around somewhat. Taking in Donatello's lab Donnie noticed several things that were vastly different from his own lab back home. The lightning was one thing, instead of the familiar glowing of red buttons and eyes and neon purple lights, there instead was a rather dim kind of lighting. While not bad it gave the lab a somewhat gloomy look not that Donnie would ever say it out loud. Glancing around some more Donnie noticed all the blueprints of future inventions that Donatello had yet to start and all the equipment that laid scattered around on tables and counters. Tools as well as lab beakers filled with all sorts of different chemicals sat neatly in their holders, awaiting the moment of being needed. As Donnie snooped around his eyes caught sight of one set of blueprints that were buried beneath newer ones. Curious the soft shell moved them aside and saw the outlining guide to what looked like a robot of some kind.
The design was that of a shorter turtle, and clunky like, yet despite it the blueprints were filled with various notes and markings on the turtle shaped robot. As Donnie read over the little notes and other details on the older blueprints his dark brown hues finally caught sight of the name of the little robot.
"Metalhead....?"
Donnie muttered intrigued as he took a closer look. The soft shell noted how detailed the plans for Metalhead were and how much care was put into them. Donatello obviously cared a lot about this particular invention from the way everything was filled with incredible details and little notes.
"I see you found the blueprints for Metalhead."
Donatello's voice sounding incredibly close made Donnie about jump out of his skin. Snapping his head around to see the older turtle Donnie was about to snap at him for spooking him like that when he paused seeing the face of the taller turtle. Donatello's gaze was solely focused on his old blueprints, a look of bittersweetness in his reddish brown eyes as he reached out to grab them from Donnie.
"Who is Metalhead if you don't mind me asking."
Donnie asked curiousity getting the best of him. Donatello was quiet for a moment before he answered his younger doppelganger's question.
"Metalhead was a robot that I'd created back when I was about fifteen years old. He was the future of the ways of the ninja, and he was one of my most complex inventions besides the Shellraiser."
Donatello explained a small gapped tooth smile on his face as he recalled the little robot turtle. However the smile faded as he continued.
"During one of our missions Metalhead was completely wrecked by a renegade mutant. I couldn't get to him in time to try and save him from further damage......all I got was his head."
Donatello said his voice soft and full of a grief that only an inventor could feel. Donnie felt his throat tighten slightly as he thought about how devastating it was to lose something like Metalhead. He knew it all too well.
"I had a little robot companion that I'd built. He was one of my greatest inventions, his name was Shelldon. I....I put my all into making him, so much so that he was like a son to me. I....I'd ended up losing him during the attack on our lair by the Shredder."
Donnie explained feeling Donatello's gaze on him. Donnie shimmied a bit underneath the gaze feeling all too exposed suddenly and he wanted nothing more than for the floor to swallow him whole.
"I guess that no matter the universe we'll always lose our robot companions huh?"
Donatello spoke up trying to somewhat ease the atmosphere. Donnie couldn't help but quirk a humorless smile at his older counterpart.
"Yeah......I guess so."
Donnie replied. The two geniuses dropped the subject of their inventions of robots not wanting to dwell too much on it. The two inventors instead moved on to much more lighter topics, talking about their newest creations and what their plans were. They talked about little things and stories of adventures that they'd experienced the once gloomy atmosphere disappearing. Donnie had no idea how long they just talked but he knew that this conversation was by far one of the best he's ever had. Donatello was incredibly smart and could keep up with Donnie easily whenever he started to get really technical on certain things. It was nice to have a partner of science and knowledge to have a conversation with. Donnie was now listening to Donatello talk about the alien species that he'd met in space, and how their technology was vast and extremely complex compared to their own.
"Honestly even I had a hard time figuring some of it out and I was the one most familiar with it! The Triceratons were one of the worst when it came to their technology. I'd never felt so frustrated in all my life, not since I'd first started off with-"
Donatello suddenly stopped making Donnie give him a confused look. Donnie quirked an eyebrow getting a bit concerned by the sudden silence.
"Don-"
He'd began to say before he was startled by Donatello practically sprinting back to his desk, quickly making his way to his computer. Donnie followed him, feeling completely lost all of a sudden. Stepping up next to Donatello he'd went to ask what was going on when his question was answered.
"Haha-! Yes I got something-! I can't believe I didn't think of them before I should have known it would involve them somehow-!"
Donatello said sounding a bit annoyed with his lack of foresight and downright pleased with what he managed to figure out.
"Uh not to rain on your parade Don but what in the laws of physics are you going on about?"
Donnie asked taking Donatello's attention. The taller turtle seemed to realize that he'd left Donnie in the dark somewhat and going red with embarrassment he began to explain.
"Ah right sorry! Well to answer your question my genius friend, I think I've found a possible lead on how to get you and your brothers back home. I was thinking maybe the Kraang would be a good starting point seeing as their whole thing is interdimensional traveling! They're practically known for their dimension hoping, so I was thinking that if we can gather information on their latest activities and their portable dimensions, we could possibly have a lead on getting you all home!"
Donatello said his expression bright and beaming for the first time in a few days. Donnie's own excitement started to spark, a large grin coming onto his face as he got what his counterpart was saying.
"Don, you are without a doubt the best version of me I have ever met, like oh mi gosh I love you and your big brain oh so much right now!"
Donnie said absolutely proud to have Donatello as his alternate self. There was a reason why he was always known as the smartest turtle amongst his brothers and seeing that his older counterpart was living up to the title made Donnie downright prideful. Donatello just seemed a bit startled by Donnie's words however the taller turtle preened at the praise.
"I'm the only version of you that you've ever met Donnie, but I'm glad to know that I'm your favorite one."
Donatello said a bit cheekily making Donnie smirk at the tone. The two purple turtles were practically vibrating with excitement, finally having a lead to work with to see if it could give them answers. As the two turtles began their plans to try and figure out what they could learn Donnie decided to drop the bombshell.
"By the way my ingenious friend, what exactly is a Kraang?"
~~~~~
Leo wasn't used to being in such an emotional rollercoaster in such a short span of time. For the past few days, he'd been filled with nothing but the familiar aching grief of being reminded of his grandmother's death and the death of his father in this strange alternate reality. Filled with thoughts and guilt and other nasty things that Leo never really liked to think about. If the red eared slider was completely honest he'd never go near anything emotional with a hundred foot pole, so suddenly being thrust into a hurricane of emotional turmoil was not a very fun time. And if Leo was known for anything it was having a fun time. Which was why he'd decided that now was the perfect opportunity to mess with some people in the lair to help get everyone's minds off of the heavy things that had been weighing them down.
And what better way to do so than with a few pranks?
So being the somewhat clever turtle he was, Leo had began his solo mission to help bring up the mood within the lair. He'd made sure to any unfortunate soul who was within his path. So far he'd gotten his older brother Raph, his little brother Mikey, his brother's older counterpart Michelangelo and he'd just got Raphael who more or less was downright fuming at the prank. Leo could practically see the water that had been in the water balloon steaming on top of the older red clad turtle's head. The sounds of confused and irritated swears and mutterings filled the lair as Raphael somewhat stomped away to go to his room to try and cool down. Leo snickered a bit coming from his hiding place as he tucked his one katana away, its mystical powers receding from the blade.
"Ain't nothing like using my badass mystic ninja skills to help everyone cool down."
Leo said a mischievous smile on his face. It wasn't often that the blue clad turtle did this kind of thing, but he had deemed the situation to bring a few harmless pranks into it. Showing his brothers some fun was what he was known for best. Leo was the face man, the jokester of his brothers. He made it his personal mission to live up to those titles, especially when his brothers needed cheering up. And since he was stuck in this world with his brothers, Leo had taken it upon himself to also extend his methods of cheering those around him up with their older counterparts. So far Raphael was the only one who seemed more irritated than everyone else so Leo made a mental note to keep the pranking to a minimum around the short and angry turtle. Michelangelo on the other hand when he'd been met with Leo's prank, had been downright thrilled and had even cracked a laugh at it. Much like his own little brother Michelangelo was rather easy going and seemed to thrive on things such as this. And hearing Michelangelo laugh was a major win in Leo's books.
"Okay so I've hit Raph, Mikey, Ralph and Miguel. I could try to go for Dee next but......"
Leo mused quietly thinking about his younger twin. Donnie if he remembered correctly was currently hiding out in this lair's lab with Donatello. The slider couldn't help but shiver slightly as he recalled the last time he'd played a prank on Donnie when he'd been in his lab. His twin had been less than pleased and he may of had Shelldon yank Leo up by his shell like a small kitten and toss him out of said lab, swearing up and down the whole time at him. The last thing he wanted was to set Donnie completely off like that again and God only knows how Donatello would react if Leo so much as even thought of pranking them while they were in the lab.
'So no Donald or Don then, I'll have to get them later. So that leaves.....'
Leo felt his heart jump at the thought of Leonardo, remembering the embarrassing moment of having himself be read like an open book by his older self. Leo had never wanted to bury himself in the ground so fast as soon as he'd realized what had happened. Thankfully Leonardo didn't rat him out to his brothers however the whole experience had left him feeling a bit shaken still.
'But if I keep avoiding him it's just gonna get worse.'
A voice in his head said sounding annoyingly enough like Dr. Feelings who Mikey used to be a somewhat therapist for his brothers. Leo couldn't help but mentally groan already knowing that his little mental Dr. Feelings was right even though he absolutely hated to admit it.
'Come on Hamato you literally fought mutated fish, literally a death match in a Big Mama's fighting ring, and the Shredder. You can face yourself and be a grown up about this. Don't be a wimp.'
He scolded himself mentally pulling himself together. After pulling himself together Leo felt a bit more confident in himself and with a small smirk began to make his way towards the one place where he knew his older self was hanging out.
The dojo.
Leo quickly and quietly made his way towards the sliding doors, being careful not to make any sounds. Using all of his ninja stealth skills, the red eared slider quietly pulled out his katana, watching the familiar bright blue mystic energy come to life at his fingertips. With a silent swing a bright blue portal opened up, revealing the inside of the dojo. There sitting at the foot of the tree's roots was Leonardo. The older turtle was sitting cross legged on the tatsumi mats, his eyes closed and his entire body completely still. A tranquil air hung around him, his breathing soft and slow and calm. It was clear that Leonardo was meditating, and by the looks of it he was incredibly deep into it.
'Perfect.'
Leo thought grabbing a water balloon and going to take aim. He'd have to be quick about this, if he wanted to get the older blue clad turtle. Leo took his aim, his light blue eyes focused on his target, getting ready to throw it.
'Three.....two.......one-!'
Leo counted backwards mentally, once he hit one he moved, however not in the way he imagined it.
In fact what happened next rather quick.
The red eared slider didn't even process it before Leonardo had suddenly moved out of the way his eyes closed still before his hand shot out towards Leo, going straight through the portal and grabbing Leo's wrist. Leo barely had a chance to blink before he was yanked right through his portal and thrown right over Leonardo's body, his body flipped over as his shell hit the tatsumi matted floors hard. The younger turtle let out a whoosh of air, his entire body practically jostled all the way down to his bones. Wide eyed in a stunned silence Leo could only wheeze a bit as he tried to get air back into his lungs. Leonardo meanwhile had finally opened his eyes, and was now looking at his younger counterpart in a mortified way.
"Leo-!? Oh shit I'm so sorry are you alright?!"
Leonardo asked his tone cracking slightly at his rushed out words as he dropped down to his knees to help Leo sit up. Leo meanwhile just tried to get his bearings, sucking in a sharp deep breath as Leonardo gently helped him up into a sitting position. After a few moments of collecting himself Leo finally spoke in a winded voice.
"Damn dude. Remind me to not do that again, you do not mess around when you throw people holy-"
Leo wheezed a bit stunned by just how strong Leonardo actually was when he put his all into it. The younger turtle knew that if he'd been human that the older turtle could have very well have broken his spine with the force he used behind the throw. Leonardo seemed to go red in a mortified way, embarrassed beyond belief.
"I'm honestly really sorry Leo, I didn't mean to throw you so hard, if I'd known it was you-"
Leonardo began to ramble while Leo finally recovered, his stunned shock now changed into a beaming star struck look. Turning to his older self Leo interrupted him.
"Holy hell Lee, that was seriously one of the most badass things I'd ever seen in my life! You didn't even hesitate and you were meditating yet you still took me out! How did you do that?!"
Leo asked his light blue eyes sparkling with boyish glee and excitement at having seen something so cool. Leonardo froze in his ramblings his dark blue eyes widening in surprise at seeing such a look on the younger turtle's face. He'd been expecting anger or something along those lines but not this.
"I....what-?"
Leonardo scrambled out his tone full of baffled confusion.
"The thing-! How did you do that?? Like dude it's not easy to get the drop on me like that, nor is it easy to sense my presence while I'm in stealth mode with my portals! Yet you completely took me by surprise all while meditating and oh mi gosh you've got to tell me how you managed to do it!"
The slider said practically demanding to have an answer in his star struck amazement. Leonardo just blinked confused and dazed by the excitement his younger doppelganger showed. Clearing out his throat somewhat to help his vocal chords out Leonardo finally answered Leo's questions.
"Ah well I didn't really know that you were there. One minute I was just meditating and then I felt the spiritual plain change and I just.....reacted on instinct."
Leonardo said sounding a bit awkward. Meanwhile Leo was taken all of this in eagerly wanting to know more.
"The spiritual plain? Like as in a sixth sense mystic kind of deal? Do you have mystic powers here?"
Leo asked earning a confused head tilt.
"Mystic powers?"
Leonardo asked confused. Leo nodded and pulled out his katana, swinging it in a small circle. The blade once again glowed a bright blue, its magic pulsing in the blade as it made a tiny portal. Leonardo's eyes went wide with shock.
"What in the-?"
He began to question and Leo was quick to answer.
"This is mystic powers. Me and my brothers each have one of a unique kind. Raph's sais is strength based and he can use it to make himself stronger. Mikey's nunchucks have the ability to shot out flames and to hold mystical beings in place. Donnie's bo staff can turn into anything that he's ever made bo staff wise via technology. And my twin katanas have the ability to open and close portals at a whim. Though judging by your reaction I'm guessing that this kind of thing doesn't exist here."
Leo said curious. Leonardo just slowly shook his head.
"No we don't have stuff like this here. However.....we do have spiritual and healing abilities here. Or rather healing and spiritual mantras. Only a selection of people can use these abilities and a lot of them are masters in some way. Out of me and my brothers though......I'm the one most spiritual sensitive and able to use the mantras easily. Though I'm not a master in these things. Not like....like Master Splinter was."
Leonardo explained getting curious himself. Leo on the other hand was amazed by this. This alternate version of himself was apparently extremely talented in this kind of thing. Though he was rather humble about it and seemed to not see the raw talent of being able to sense Leo of all people and get the drop on him. The red eared slider felt a sudden determination hit him and with a click of his katana being placed in its sheath, Leo grabbed Leonardo's hands tightly and stared straight into his dark blue eyes seriously.
"Can you teach me?"
The younger turtle asked earning a wide eyed look from the older one.
"Teach you?"
The older turtle repeated earning a fierce nod in response.
"Yes teach me. I want to learn how to do that move that you did because Lee that was seriously the coolest thing I've ever seen in my sixteen years of life and I'll literally die if I don't learn such a awesome skill."
Leo said sounding dead serious. Leonardo just stared at his younger counterpart looking entirely unsure about everything. However Leo gave him the best puppy dog eyes he could ever give, practically pleading with his older self to teach him. It was a good bit of uncertain silence before the blue clad leader let out a resigned sigh.
"I can try, but I don't know if it'll work or not."
The leader said earning a practically glowing smile from the red eared slider.
"Oh me gosh thank you-! You're now my favorite turtle in the world!"
Leo said bouncing a bit while Leonardo watched in slight weary amusement.
"Yeah, no problem. Come on let's get up off the ground and I'll check you over to make sure I didn't hurt you by accident."
Leonardo said getting up and offering a hand to help Leo up. With a bright grin Leo grabbed ahold of his doppelganger's hand and let himself be hoisted up onto his feet. Once standing the two blue turtles made their way out of the dojo.
~~~~~
Donatello stared at his computer checking off all the data he'd collected from his hours of research. Donnie was at his desk as well, writing everything they came across down onto their charts that they'd made to keep their data together. After explaining exactly what the Kraang were to Donnie, the two had begun their quest in searching for anything that was odd or not exactly normal. So far Donatello had managed to find reports from the local research facility, courtesy of Donnie's hacker skills, and had learned that they'd been tracking odd spikes of energy surges for the past two or three weeks. The facility couldn't figure out exactly where they'd been coming from but they'd been happening a bit more frequently.
Especially during this week, or more specifically a few days before Donnie and his brothers appeared within the lair.
That alone rose red flags for Donatello. The older turtle stared at the computer screen and the graphs that contained the information that was under extreme coding and protection servicers until Donnie had hacked their systems. Reports from the research facility and local new broadcasting stations all pointed to the same energy surges that had been occurring in New York City. And Donatello had a feeling that the Kraang had something to do with it.
"So what are we going to do now? Cause all this information we've found and all the reports we've read are all weirdly suspicious."
Donnie piped up his mouth somewhat pressed into a tense expression. Donatello gave a small sigh, rubbing his eyes and thinking.
"I think that we'll definitely need to check out the Kraang database and see what they're up to. And in order to do that we're going to need to locate them first. The Kraang aren't easy to find and if they're up to something and it's big they're gonna difficult to locate. I'll need to talk to Leo about this and see what he thinks about all this."
Donatello said already making a mental layout for his possible future mission.
"If that's the case then I'll need to alert my brothers about this and see what they think about this."
Donnie replied already getting up from his chair and gathering their notes to show to his brothers to explain what was going on. Glancing up at Donatello, Donnie gave him a small look.
"Are you coming?"
Donnie asked his tone slightly impatient at wanting to get this show on the road. Donatello blinked away from the computer and nodded quickly getting up from his desk and grabbing a few things of his own. As he gathered his materials to go and discuss this with Leonardo the sudden ringing of his tphone sounded out throughout the lab startling the two geniuses. Donatello shimmying his work over into one arm quickly reached for the phone attached to his hip and pulled it up answering it as he made his way to Donnie giving him a look to let him know to follow him. The soft shell gave a swift nod not speaking since Donatello was on the phone.
"Hello?"
Donatello answered, his phone pressed up to his cheek as he and Donnie made their way towards the living room to go and gather their brothers. Donnie listened quietly as Donatello seemed to brighten up immediately at whoever was on the other end of the phone. The older turtle was talking rather quickly and softly, seemingly letting whoever it was that called in on what was going on. As Donnie set the stuff down he heard Donatello speak.
"Oh-! You really don't have to trouble yourself......okay okay I get it, so I guess I'll see you in a bit..? Alright, see you soon, be safe."
Donatello said ending the call. Donnie gave him a small narrowed eyed look, somewhat suspicious.
"So who's stopping by?"
Donnie asked not bothering to act like he wasn't eavesdropping. Donatello blinked and snapped his reddish brown gaze onto the younger turtle suddenly looking incredibly bashful.
"It was a friend of ours. She wants to join in on our talk and help us out."
Donatello said his voice small and mumbled. Donnie quirked an eyebrow, unimpressed by the vague answer but he decided to drop it. They had more important things to worry about at the moment.
"You got everything Don?"
Donnie asked earning a nod of confirmation from the older purple turtle.
"Yep, all we need is our brothers and then we'll be good to go."
Donatello replied earning a hum of acknowledgement. Donatello watched as his younger counterpart put everything down and got up to leave the living room.
"I'll go get them and bring them in. You keep everything together Don."
Donnie said before leaving the older turtle behind, his bright purple battle shell being all that Donatello saw before his doppelganger disappeared from view. Donatello took a deep breath, fiddling with his bandages on his wrists a bit as he waited for Donnie and their brothers to come back and join him.
*What's this? Some actual plot?? Yes my friends it most certainly is! Now we're getting on a roll my lovely peeps and I'm personally super excited to see how my little project plays out. This chapter is a bit longer because I wanted to get the plot somewhat going and because the next chapter might take a lot more time to complete seeing as how my fingers are sore from typing on my phone for so long and because I don't want to give myself burnout because that'd lowkey suck. Anyways if any y'all read this I hope you enjoyed it!!!*
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twstgabrielle 2 years
Text
Warning: Major injuries, a few scares and all around chaos. Also most likely inaccurate medical advice/information. If any of this makes you uncomfortable I highly encourage y'all to check out my other works.
Boredom, it was something that Michelangelo was extremely familiar with. Despite having three older brothers who he could mess around with or training in the dojo with his father or going to his room with all of his comic books and toys, there were still moments where the young turtle would get bored. And when boredom hit Michelangelo was a force to be reckoned with. Which is how he'd started on the current mission that he was starting. The young five year old turtle toddler had decided to start climbing things to see how high he could get before he'd have to climb back down. So far he'd managed to climb onto a chair in the kitchen by himself, managed to climb on the walkway rails that sat at one of the entrances of his home, and managed to nearly get to the kitchen counter before Raphael had came in and nearly scared him half to death and unknowingly deterring him from trying it out.
After that moment Michelangelo practically ran out of the kitchen leaving a confused older brother behind within it. The small orange clad turtle had ran as quickly and quietly as he could before he was sure that Raphael wasn't going to follow him and question him about him being in the kitchen. After somewhat hiding out in the pit area in the living room and not hearing his red clad brother coming after him for at least twenty minutes the youngest turtle finally relaxed and came out of his hiding place completely bummed out.
'Now I'll never know if I can climb up the kitchen counter....'
The turtle thought feeling a bit frustrated as he walked out of the familiar living room. Michelangelo glared a bit at the ground, annoyed that he was going to be bored again. As he glared at the ground he thought about what he should do next before an idea hit him.
'Maybe Donnie will do something with me.'
The turtle thought brightening up at the thought of his older brother hanging out with him. As Michelangelo ran to get to his brother's bedroom to see if he'd come and play with him the orange turtle stopped suddenly when he caught sight of the dojo and its opened doors. Curious the little turtle changed his course of action and made his way cautiously towards the dojo. Bright blue eyes peered in through the doors, expecting to see his father meditating within as he usually did. However to his surprise, his tall rodent Sensei was no where to be seen. All that greeted him was the familiar tatsumi mats and weapons that decorated the walls and the small shrine of Tang Shen and Miwa that sat within the corner. Michelangelo felt his curiosity grow and without thinking too much about it stepped inside the dojo.
'Wonder where papa went....?'
Michelangelo mused somewhat searching for the familiar figure in the dark red robes and familiar face of whites, browns and blacks. When he didn't see him the child somewhat slumped a bit before his gaze finally landed on a familiar sight. Sitting within the middle of the dojo was the family tree. The large tree stood amongst the room, its branches overhanging and filled with bright green leaves. It was tall and had been there for all of Michelangelo's life, and it was a well loved and taken care of tree that his Sensei Master Splinter took great pride in. As the young child looked at the large tree a sudden idea hit him, completely kicking his original idea of seeking out Donatello to the curb.
'What if I climbed the tree....?'
Michelangelo thought suddenly excited and giddy as the urge from earlier to try and climb things from earlier came back full force. The small turtle didn't even hesitate, instead making his way towards the large tree and its dark trunk to try and climb it. Gripping the bark and getting a good holding on it the youngest Hamato son began to climb up the large and sturdy tree, enjoying the thrill he'd received from doing so. He'd never been allowed on the tree, Master Splinter was very adamant about it and got very upset whenever he'd catch one of the boys trying to climb up it. He never knew why his father was so against it, seeing as how he was having the time of his life.
"This is so cool-!"
Michelangelo breathed climbing higher and higher until he'd finally reached the tree branches that hung over the dojo. Hoisting himself onto it Michelangelo perched himself onto it, relishing in the ecstatic feeling of actually accomplishing it. With a beaming grin on his freckled cheeks the little turtle sat on the branch for a few moments just basking in the feeling of pride and boyish excitement. After having his fill Michelangelo went to start his dissent down the tree when he finally took in just exactly how high he really was. Eyes going wide Michelangelo suddenly stiffened as he looked downwards towards the ground which now seemed like it was miles above the ground. A sudden feeling of fear hit him as he froze, and he couldn't move instead gripping the branch with his three fingered hands. However as he went to move himself to get a better grip he stumbled slightly causing his body to go forward. Michelangelo let out a startled shriek and he grabbed the branch to steady himself, his heart racing a mile a minute.
"H-help...! Someone help me-! Sensei....! Papa-! Raphie-! Donnie-! Anyone-!"
Michelangelo began to say his voice growing a bit hysterical as he struggled to keep himself on the tree branch. The once fun adventure and thrill of breaking his Sensei's wishes was now a terrifying experience to the five year old and he wanted more than anything to get down. Big large tears started to fill his eyes as he trembled with fear. He just wanted to get down, he didn't want to die, he wanted to get out of this tree and be on the ground again. As he broke down in his terror he failed to notice the person entering the dojo at that moment.
"Mikey?!? What are you doing?!?"
A voice childish and horrified came from below. Michelangelo's teary baby blues snapped towards the ground and were met with wide and scared dark blue ones.
"L-Leo....."
Michelangelo whimpered as he gripped the tree branch, relief hitting him as he saw his older brother Leonardo. The oldest Hamato son had already made his way towards the tree looking all in the world spooked as he stopped at the tree trunk.
"Mikey-! Are you okay-??"
Leonardo asked frantically as he took in the terrified and teary eyed gaze of his little brother. Michelangelo shook his head finally bursting into tears as he held onto the branch for dear life.
"N-no-! I'm not okay...! L-Leo I....I can't get down-!"
The younger turtle sobbed out as the older turtle stared at him in shock and fear. But just as quickly as the look appeared a new look came onto the other five year old's face. A look that he'd unknowingly have with him for the rest of his life.
A look of older brother determination.
"It's okay Mikey, I'm here. Everything's gonna be okay I promise. I'm gonna come and get you just don't move."
Leonardo said his small face scrunched up in a fiery determination as he began to climb up the tree himself, wanting nothing more than to get his little brother down and safe onto the ground. Michelangelo's eyes went wide as he watched his big brother, the brother who followed the rules and never disobeyed Master Splinter's wishes, completely disregard them as he too climbed up. Before Michelangelo knew it Leonardo was already on the branch, his gaze focused solely on Michelangelo. The oldest Hamato son carefully moved closer towards the youngest Hamato son, reaching his hand out towards him.
"It's okay Mikey I'm right here, just take my hand and we'll get down safely."
Leonardo said his voice soft and calm. Michelangelo shook his head trembling.
"I-I can't-! What if I fall-?!"
Michelangelo began to say before Leonardo interrupted him.
"You're not going to fall. I won't let you fall, I'll never let you fall Mikey. You'll be okay I promise. Trust me."
Leonardo said his voice strong and serious for one so young. Michelangelo stared at him, his trembling calming down somewhat as he looked at his big brother. The orange turtle had no idea why but for some reason he knew deep down that Leonardo would never let him fall. With that reassurance Michelangelo finally gave a shaky nod, his tears and sniffles slowly down.
"O-Okay....."
Michelangelo said his voice small and scared but trusting as he began to slowly reach out to meet Leonardo's out stretched hand. The youngest turtle had just managed to grab onto Leonardo's hand when the sound of a loud cracking filled the dojo. Everything moved in slow motion for Michelangelo as he felt himself begin to fall, the branch having broken underneath him. His heart froze as he fell, horrifically enough dragging Leonardo with him. The youngest Hamato son let out a scream of terror as he and the oldest Hamato son went free falling. Michelangelo closed his eyes not wanting to see him and his older brother hit the ground and die. However his eyes snapped open when he felt Leonardo yank him into his chest plate harshly, his hands coming up to shield Michelangelo from harm as he flipped them over while they fell, putting himself beneath his little brother. Michelangelo couldn't even process what had happened before they both landed onto the dojo floor harshly, the orange clad turtle landing on top of his blue clad brother who had taken the harsh impact of their free fall. The sound of a sickening crack, like a brittle branch snapping in half filled the dojo, along with a shell slamming into the floor and another shell.
Michelangelo panted the adrenaline high as he pushed himself up realizing that he hadn't even touched the ground. No the one who had touched the ground and taken the blunt force of his body landing on him was Leonardo. The blue clad eldest child held his little brother tightly within his arms, though now that Michelangelo was able to see one of his brother's arms was bent at an awkward angle, and already bruising. Leonardo's eyes were closed and his jaw was tight as if he was in pain. A feeling of dread hit Michelangelo as he realized what Leonardo had done and he'd paid for it. Practically going hysterical again Michelangelo scrambled off of Leonardo being careful not to move the arm that was hurt. Tears filled his vision once more as he gently shook Leonardo's uninjured shoulder.
"Leo.....Leo.....! Leo please get up.....! L-Leo.........."
Michelangelo said his voice cracking as he didn't get a response from his unconscious and injured older brother. The child's thoughts raced within his mind making his panic grow.
He'd kept his promise.
He didn't let you fall.
He should be okay so why wasn't he waking up??
Was.....was he......?
Michelangelo swallowed the hysteria finally hitting its peak and he did the only thing that his five year old mind could think of.
He screamed.
~~~~~
Master Splinter had just gotten back from checking the surrounding areas of the lair, making sure that no one had gotten too close when the sudden sound of a blood curdling scream reached his sensitive ears.
"PAPA-!!!!!"
A voice full of terror and fear and tears filled the lair, a voice belonging to his beloved youngest son Michelangelo. A sudden feeling of cold dread filled his heart at the scream having never heard such a terrified sound coming from his baby boy. Is was a sound that should have never been made.
Not while he was alive and breathing.
Splinter didn't even think, he only moved fueled by pure parental instinct and the desperate need to see if his sons, his babies were safe. He raced towards the direction of where he'd heard Michelangelo's blood curdling scream, to the dojo, noticing that already rushing into the same room was Raphael and Donatello. His two sons had the most terrified looks on their faces, looks that should never be there in the first place. The two five year olds saw their father rushing towards them their eyes filled with childish fear.
"Father-! What's wrong why is Mikey screaming-???"
Donatello asked as the large rat followed closely by his sons rushed towards the dojo.
"Father I can't find Leo-!!"
Raphael spoke up an uncharacteristic tone of fear appearing in it. Splinter didn't answer them only focused on getting to the dojo. Finally after what felt like an eternity Splinter and his sons finally entered the dojo and the sight that greeted them chilled Splinter down to his very bones. Sitting on the ground sobbing and gripping his brother was Michelangelo. The youngest son was hysterically crying, clinging desperately to his brother as he sobbed. The brother being gripped in question was none other than Leonardo. His eldest son was laying on the ground unnaturally still, his right arm bent in an unnatural manner, purple colored and swollen and obviously broken. His eyes were closed and other than his jaw being flat in a line of pain he didn't move, not when Michelangelo pleaded with him to answer him, not when he was being shaken. He remained completely and utterly still almost as if........
Splinter felt something within him break, the air in his lungs being stolen as he rushed forwards, hearing Donatello's horrified gasp and Raphael's terrified cry of Leonardo's name coming from behind him. He felt like he was running through molasses, as he ran to his two children's sides.
'Please....please if there's a god or deity listening out there please don't let my son be......! I can't lose him, I can't lose another child-! Not after Miwa, not after Tang Shen-! I wouldn't be able to bare it-!'
He pleaded praying to anyone listening to him as he finally made it to Michelangelo and Leonardo's sides. The orange turtle's head snapped up seeing his father and he burst into tears again his words rushed and barely understandable.
"Papa-! It's all my fault I shouldn't have climbed the tree-! And.....and now Leo's-!"
Michelangelo sobbed out as Splinter checked Leonardo over. The large rat about collapsed with relief as he felt the familiar heartbeat of his eldest son, pumping strong and clearly.
"Father is......is Leo.....?"
Donatello asked from behind him, his voice small and trembling as if he was barely keeping it together. Splinter turned to his other two children and saw the fearful looks on their faces. Forcing himself to remain calm and strong Splinter spoke.
"Leonardo is fine, he's just unconscious. But he needs medical attention immediately. His arm is broken and I need to set it before it heals wrong."
Splinter said already taking charge of the situation. Staring at his three shaken sons he set them to work, knowing that the distraction would help.
"Donatello I'll need you to get me the first aid kit and to clear off the bed in the spare room. Can you do that for me?"
Splinter asked making his purple clad child snap his wide and spooked reddish brown gaze to him.
"H-Hai father I'll get right on it!"
Donatello said the five year old already running out of the dojo to complete his tasks given to him. Splinter then turned to Raphael who was shaking slightly and barely keeping himself together.
"Raphael I need you to get me some splints and some ice for your brother's arm to help bring the swelling down. Can you complete this task?"
Splinter asked keeping a close eye on his second eldest son. Raphael's bright green eyes snapped up to his father, a whirlwind of emotions flying around in them. His son didn't answer instead just nodding before taking one last look at Leonardo and Michelangelo and then heading out to do his tasks. Splinter took a deep breath relieved that Raphael was listening to him, already knowing how fiercely protective his red clad five year old was. Finally he turned his attention to his sobbing youngest and placed a gentle hand on his shell to help calm him down.
"Breathe my son, Leonardo is alright. I need you to explain to me exactly what happened and how he'd broken his arm."
Splinter said his voice calm yet stern as he looked at his youngest. Michelangelo gave a small hiccupping whimper before nodding already calming down with his father's presence there. Satisfied with this, Splinter gently picked up Leonardo from the floor careful not to jostle his broken arm, and then with his other arm he picked up Michelangelo before carrying his two babies out of the dojo and into the spare room.
~~~~~
Michelangelo Hamato sat on couch staring at his hands in a shocked stupor. After Master Splinter had came home and had taken Leonardo into the spare room to fix him up, everything became a blur to him. All Michelangelo could think about was the way Leonardo had held him when they'd fallen and how he'd taken the brunt of it. It scared him, having Leonardo do such a thing and he'd told Master Splinter just as much when the large rat mutant finally asked him what had happened. Michelangelo had told him everything from his climbing in the kitchen to the climbing of the tree in the dojo. He told him about how Leonardo had saved him, crying brokenly as he recalled the promise that Leonardo said. Master Splinter listened quietly, his aura full of disappointment and yet soothing. After the youngest Hamato son told his story Master Splinter took a deep breath rubbing his eyes in an exhausted way.
"Michelangelo, I'm very disappointed in you and your choices. I had told you as well as your brothers many times to not climb the tree in the dojo. Yet you disobeyed me and as a result Leonardo was hurt."
Master Splinter said his voice stern and soft, full of the anger of a father and the disappointment that he felt for his son's choices. Michelangelo sniffled wiping his puffy eyes to stop his tears.
"I-I know Sensei I.....I should have listened and.....and now Leo's hurt....! I.....I didn't want him to get hurt....! I'm sorry Papa......!"
Michelangelo said his voice trembling and full of regret and sorrow. Splinter's gaze softened at hearing his son's regret and with a gentle yet firm hand he pulled his son close to him and hugged him.
"I know that you didn't mean for your brother to get hurt. My son you must understand that choices have consequences. And depending on the choices those consequences can be more than we're willing to pay. I want you to learn from this and use this experience to teach you to think before you act. Do you understand my son?"
Master Splinter asked his tone soft. Michelangelo nodded hugging his father tightly as be buried his head into his chest. As the father and son hugged one another Donatello and Raphael who had been eavesdropping gave each other a small look. The two were extremely upset by what had happened, and they never wanted something like that to happen ever again. Seeing Leonardo on the dojo floor like that had scared Donatello and Raphael. Donatello when he'd seen the scene had never felt so useless in his entire life. The purple clad turtle had wanted to help his father out in helping Leonardo out so badly, but he had no clue what to do. So Donatello could only watch the whole thing, powerless to help his big brother and to help Michelangelo who was falling apart the entire time. Raphael on the other hand.....seeing his big brother, his best friend on the ground like that had completely ruined him. Raphael at that moment felt like he'd failed when he'd seen the scene, when he'd seen Michelangelo crying and Leonardo hurt and unconscious. It angered the red clad turtle, who wanted nothing more than to protect his brothers, to be completely useless in doing so. Raphael hadn't been there to keep them safe and as a result Leonardo was hurt. The two turtles felt angry and scared and full of guilt at having been unable to help when their brothers needed them the most. As the red and purple turtles stewed over this the sound of their master's voice snapped them out of it.
"Raphael. Donatello, why don't you come and join us?"
Master Splinter said his voice full of knowing. Raphael and Donatello exchanged startled looks and embarrassingly made their way towards their father and little brother. Master Splinter took in the sight of his two other children and opened his arms inviting them into the hug. Raphael and Donatello didn't hesitate to launch themselves into their father's arms, clinging to him and Michelangelo tightly, sniffling a bit themselves.
"Is.....is Leo going to be okay Sensei.....?"
Donatello asked his voice small. Master Splinter gave him a small squeeze of reassurance.
"Yes my son, your brother will be alright. Other than being sore with his arm, Leonardo will heal up in no time."
Master Splinter said his voice soothing and confident. Donatello relaxed at this knowledge trusting his father's words. Raphael just clung to his father obviously distressed.
"Is there anything we can do to help Leo?"
Raphael asked his childish voice full of frustration. Master Splinter gave his other son an understanding look and squeezed him too.
"The best thing to help your brother is to let him rest and to keep an eye on him my son."
The rat explained knowing how hard it was to not be able to really do much. Raphael seemed to begrudgingly accept this, obviously not happy with the answer. The four mutants remained within their embrace for a moment or two before Splinter finally let them go with the intention of making them dinner. Once their father was gone and in the kitchen the three brothers looked at one another quietly and in silent agreement they made their way towards Leonardo's bedroom. Three tiny toddlers quietly made their way towards their older brother's bedroom, opening the door and slipping inside it. Once all three of them were safely inside they made their way to their sleeping big brother's side and carefully began to climb into bed with him. With delicate movements they avoided moving his broken arm which was now in a makeshift sling and snuggled into the large bed, all of them desperately wanting to be close to their older brother. Once they were settled in the three turtles one by one began to drift off into a light sleep.
~~~~~
Leonardo woke up to feeling incredibly warm and incredibly sore. The oldest turtle slowly blinked and saw his arm in the sling, the events of the dojo coming back in a hazy manner.
'Oh that's right......me and Mikey fell out of the tree in the dojo......'
Leonardo thought going to sit up when he finally noticed the three bodies surrounding him. Fast asleep and snuggled close to him was Raphael, Donatello and Michelangelo. Leonardo felt himself grow warm with happiness and went to settle back in when he caught sight of Michelangelo moving slightly.
"Mikey...? Are you okay?"
Leonardo asked his voice a whisper just in case Michelangelo was asleep. The orange clad turtle turned to look up at Leonardo, his baby blues shimmering with guilt.
"I'm......I'm okay.......I just.......Leo I'm so sorry it's all my fault that you got hurt....."
Michelangelo whispered his guilt and sorrow leaking through. Leonardo felt his heart break at the tone and with his good arm gently patted Michelangelo's head soothingly.
"Mikey, you don't have to apologize. You didn't know what was going to happen and neither did I. All that matters is that we're okay. So please don't beat yourself up over this little brother."
Leonardo said his tone sincere as he gave Michelangelo a tired but small smile. Michelangelo gave his older brother a small look, snuggling closer to him and Leonardo let him knowing that Michelangelo needed it. The two didn't say anything else, instead drifting back to sleep knowing that the other was okay and that all was forgiven even if it wasn't spoken out loud. As the youngest turtle fell asleep he couldn't help but make himself a promise.
'I'll keep you safe big bro, just like how you do to me, I'll always be there.'
And with that Michelangelo fell asleep surrounded by the warmth of his big brothers.
*I don't know what this is I guess it's a little side story???? Like as I was writing this I was thinking like A Universal Collision type of universe but like before stories???? Does that make sense?? Anyways it can also be a stand alone, I just wanted to have some Leo and Mikey stuff don't mind me too much lol, might make one involving the Rise boys idk we'll see. Sorry if this sucks y'all. Anyways if any y'all read this I hope you enjoyed it!!!*
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twstgabrielle 2 years
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Personal little Tmnt/Rottmnt head canons of mine that I didn't even realize existed till I'd started writing oops-
2012 Leo doesn't really talk much. He kinda only speaks when it's necessary, mainly because if he speaks too long his voice actually starts to give out on him and his vocal chords become strained and painful.
Rise Leo is able to get a decent read on people, so much so that it's almost scary. Much like his 2012 counterpart, Leo is able to see things that most people can't and despite his joking attitude he's constantly obversing and taking mental notes on his surroundings.
2012 Raph as he gets older gets a better grip on his short temper. It takes a little bit more for the red clad turtle to completely explode and he tries his best to keep his anger in check so he can be there for his brothers and keep his cool. Though he does have his moments of becoming snappy and he does sometimes lose the battle with his anger, he's gotten a lot better.
2012 Donnie despite not showing it actually keeps a close eye on his older brother Leo. Being the family medic first before his blue clad brother, the tall genius always keeps tabs on him. Making sure that he takes it easy and making sure that he doesn't push himself too much Donnie in a way has become a lot like Leo, in that being a mom of sorts and he'll often scold him if he pushes it. (Much like how Leo scolds him and his brothers when they go too far or do something stupid or dangerous).
Rise Mikey already considers his 2012 counterpart as a close friend despite only having met him not too long ago. Mikey simply enjoys being around the older turtle and is already comfortable enough to have lively conversations with him.
That's all I've got so far and I didn't even realize that I like head canoned these things till like I wrote them down?? On metaphorical paper???? There's probably gonna be a lot more of these the more I write lmfao this is gonna be a wild ride.
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twstgabrielle 2 years
Text
Reading Guidelines and Warnings: The 2012 boys will be addressed by their full names unless they're speaking to each other or about one another. The Rise boys will be addressed by their nicknames. Also there will be spoilers for both shows, as well as hints at depression, grieving, traumatic events, major character death and possibly language. If any of this makes you uncomfortable then I highly encourage y'all to check out my other works.
Raph has always been the biggest of his brothers. From the moment he and his little brothers had been born and then mutated the snapping turtle has always been the biggest. And because he was the biggest it made him the oldest amongst his brothers, and he took that title as eldest child very seriously. From the moment he'd been dubbed big brother, Raph had done his best to take care of his family and to be the person that they could rely on when things got tough. He put them first and rarely complained seriously and protected them fiercely with every fiber of his being. He learned to be the strongest and the bravest and the most patient that he could be so his brothers and even his father and April could depend on him. And as he grew older he had reached those goals that he'd given himself, intentionally or unintentionally. He was in every way the best big brother that he could ever be, the big brother that his little brothers would go to when they were hurt or afraid or upset. He was the one who kissed their boo-boos and chased the nightmares away and offered them comfort when they needed it. And he was good at it, scarily so if he was willing to brag about it. Always prepared to do what must be done in order to bring peace and happiness to those he loved.
Yet here, in this very moment Raph was at a complete loss of how to fix the problem before him. The large snapping turtle could only stare at the shrine before him, his entire body shaking with his barely concealed tears and grief that had struck him when he'd finally gazed upon it and it clicked exactly what he'd been looking at. When he'd finally had his worst nightmare confirmed by Leonardo.
'Hamato Yoshi......Master Splinter......the last leader of the Hamato clan before.......before his death.'
The sentence, vicious and poisonous rang through his head like a broken record player unable to stop no matter how much he wanted it to. And Raph hated it, he hated how it stuck in his mind like glue, hated how one sentence could tear him apart from the inside. Never in a million years could Raph ever even imagine a outcome such as this, could ever even think for a moment that Master Splinter, his Sensei, the man who raised him and his brothers, the man who took care of them and loved them with everything he had, could no longer be among the living. Never had it even popped in his mind that in another world, that in another reality that his father would be dead. The knowledge alone was unbearable, a fact that shouldn't exist no matter where or when. Raph could feel his throat tighten as he stared at the picture of Master Splinter, stared at the tall rat who was so full of wisdom and kindness just from his gaze alone, a glimpse of the man he was when he'd been alive. A man who while not his father personally was in some way a version of the man who he loved back in his home universe and he felt his heart shatter. Rubbing his eyes to stop the tears that threatened to fall, Raph found his eyes wandering around the dojo to check on the occupants within.
The first one he noticed was Donnie, who was seated close to him and seemingly in denial about what he was seeing. His genius little brother was muttering underneath his breath, his gaze unfocused and shining slightly as he became lost in his thoughts which were racing a hundred miles a minute as he tried to logically explain to himself how this was a universal improbability. It broke the large turtle's heart seeing his usually cool and somewhat sarcastic and dramatic brother be reduced to an absolute mess. Raph's attention was drawn away from Donnie as a familiar heart wrenching sob came from his other side. Dark green eyes snapped towards the direction of the sobs to catch a glimpse of Mikey, his sweet little brother falling apart. The small box turtle was sobbing, curled in on himself slightly as he tried to keep his turmoil from engulfing him entirely. Next to him keeping a steady yet trembling grip on the youngest was Leo, the red eared slider was holding him, his own gaze much like Donnie's shimmering with unshed tears. His face was pale and his gaze haunted as he held their baby brother together to the best of his ability. Raph felt his heart twist at the look, seeing one similarly not too long ago.
'A lair burning in flames, shouting and screeches of an animalistic nature. The sounds of his brothers shouting out in fear as they tried to escape. He could still hear Leo's terrified cry for their father as a large hunched over form landed next to the slider. He could still see the figure of a woman trying desperately to protect them, using the last of her strength to take the monster with her and paying the ultimate price for it. He could see Leo's wide shimmering eyes, the fear and despair and denial at witnessing it before they were forced to leave their father and Draxum and Gram-Gram behind.'
Raph felt his stomach twist as the memories hit him, of having to witness the murder of his grandmother and having to carry the burden of making such a large decision. Of having to see his little brothers and April's haunted looks as they got in the truck with Todd. The large turtle teen had been witness to the same look Leo was currently wearing back then and seeing it again twisted something nasty within him. Raph wanted nothing more than at that moment than to grab his three little brothers and hold them close to him, to protect them from this horrific tragedy of this world. However it wasn't just them he wanted to do this to.
No he wanted to do this to Leonardo and his brothers as well.
Raph looked over at the group of four who sat close to one another beneath the large tree, seeing their pained and exhausted gazes, looking so much older than their actual ages. He took in Michelangelo and Donatello's closeness, the purple clad turtle trying to offer support despite the grief he felt as well. Took in the pained rage filled guilty gaze of Raphael who in all the world looked the very definition of a man who was falling apart on the inside. Took in the blank and far away gaze of Leonardo who looked so cold and unreachable, as if he was desperately trying to remain strong despite his own grief. He took in their scars both physical and emotional, took in just how much these four older turtles truly carried upon their weary shoulders and he felt that fierce need to protect them rise up within him. The need to keep them from this world's cruel injustice and harmful ways. To shield them from anymore pain and suffering just as he tried to for his little brothers. Raph knew logically that these older turtles didn't need protection, that they didn't need to be watched over, but the emotional part, the part that held his large heart full of his big brotherly love wanted nothing more than to protect them and watch over them, consequences be damned.
But amongst those feelings there was also a feeling of respect for these older turtles. It was clear that they'd been through many things within their lives, that they'd lost so much, that they'd lost their father. Yet despite it all they still remained by each other's sides, they still stuck with one another and kept each other going when it was so clear that they were tired and hurting. Yet still despite it all they kept going and that alone earned more respect than Raph orginally had.
'They're strong, just like us. We may not have been through all the things they've been through but just like us they keep on going. Then again isn't that what members of the Hamato clan do?'
The thought asked within his mind. The large snapping turtle was taken out of his thoughts by his little brother Leo's voice.
"How.......how did he......?"
Leo asked his tone shaking slightly and thick with his repressed emotions. Raph and his two remaining brothers went quiet save for a few sniffles and hiccups from Mikey as they all turned to their older counterparts. Raph quickly noticed how Raphael stiffened and how Michelangelo's jaw tightened slightly at the question. Donatello went eerily still and Leonardo.......
Leonardo went resigned in a way, as if he'd been mentally preparing himself to answer the inevitable question that was bound to come. The leader in blue was quiet for a beat as if he was trying to figure out where exactly he should begin. After a beat or two the leader took a deep breath and spoke.
"It's......it's a very long story. I'd um......get comfortable if I were you....."
Leonardo said his voice a soft growling rasp as he stared at the four younger ones. Raph felt his heart sink in unease at the sentence, suddenly afraid of hearing this story. Did he truly want to know how their father died? Did he truly want to know, to make the fact of Master Splinter being dead even more real? Raph didn't have any answers to these questions but he found himself mechanically settling himself around to face the older turtles and get himself comfortable, his brothers following his example. Once they were settled Leonardo began.
"It happened about a year ago....."
~~~~~
Raphael hated being exposed.
He hated it more than he would ever admit and he especially hated when he was exposed emotionally. And at the moment that's exactly what was happening. The short red clad turtle sat beside his older brother, his discomfort clear as he shimmied in his place. Leonardo had begun to tell the story of Master Splinter's death, his voice gruff and crocking every so often whenever he'd hit a part within the story that affected him emotionally. Raphael tried to keep back his flinches of concern whenever he heard a crack in Leonardo's voice, already knowing that once this was all over that his big brother would most likely remain quiet for the rest of the day unless he absolutely had to. He couldn't remember a recent time when Leonardo had spoken as much as he was currently, but he knew that the blue turtle would be paying for it later. Raphael flickered his bright green hues towards Donatello catching his reddish brown gaze, and already knew that his tall genius little brother had noticed Leonardo's voice as well.
'He'll probably make him tea later if I'm gonna take a guess.'
Raphael thought his mind focusing on this little thing. Raphael didn't like to remember the story that was currently being told, didn't like to remember any of it. Remembering it brought him grief, it brought him guilt and it brought him anger unlike anything he'd ever experienced in a good while. And the last thing he needed, what his brothers needed was for him to lose his head.
'They need me right now. There'll be a time and place where I can lose control and beat something or someone up. But not right now.'
He told himself as he caught up with the story that was being told. Leonardo had gotten to the part where they'd fought the other alien race and had managed to complete their mission to save their father's life. He could feel the looks of disbelief and horror from the younger turtles as Leonardo continued, already guessing that they couldn't process it at the moment. Not that Raphael could blame them, after all they'd just been informed that Master Splinter, a variation of their father had died and they'd taken it pretty badly which again Raphael couldn't blame them. After all at the time he and his brothers hadn't taken it well either.
'Hell we're still not taking it well. I don't think we ever truly will.'
Raphael thought his heart twisting into a tight knot in his chest as he recalled the earlier breakdown he and his brothers experienced in their kitchen. He knew that once this was all over he'd probably go hide out in his room to recollect himself mentally, after all being exposed so much was making him extremely twitchy and uneasy. It was like picking at a scab, tearing it open and exposing the inside of wound after it'd just started healing somewhat. It left him feeling raw and unnerved, to be so open for practical strangers to see and he could only handle so much before he'd explode like a volcano. As Raphael listened and mentally mused about the little things to keep him from completely losing it he finally caught on to Leonardo's voice telling the ending of their space journey and the beginning of the second time they'd watched their father die right in front of them. The red clad turtle gripped his hands into fists as he felt that familiar violent waves of anger, grief and guilt hit him. He could still see that horrible moment crystal clear, could feel the guilt that ate away at him like an acidic chemical. Even after a year he still felt that guilt, still felt that he was to blame somewhat for his father's death. Logically he knew that he couldn't have predicted the turn of events that had happened that night, that he couldn't have prevented them from happening. But another part of him, an illogical part, couldn't help but blame himself for what happened.
Couldn't help but feel like he was responsible for what had happened.
'I should have been faster. I should have been more alert, I should have been able to continue fighting, I should have tried to stop it, I should of-'
Thoughts and guilt piled onto him and buried him despite being told by not only April and Casey but by his own brothers that he wasn't at fault for what happened. He felt himself spiral somewhat before he was snapped out of it by a small grip on his shoulder. Blinking Raphael looked up to see that Leonardo who at this point was finishing up their story had gripped his shoulder in a gentle yet firm manner, almost as if his oldest brother had felt his thoughts going out of control. The second eldest son stared at the first eldest son who didn't look at him but he kept a firm reassuring grip on him to ground him.
It's not your fault.
Stop blaming yourself.
I'm here for you and if you need me I'll be there for you.
I love you little brother.
Raphael felt his throat get tight but he refused to acknowledge it, not wanting to break down yet again. Especially in front of their counterparts. He'd rather die then let them see him cry if he was being honest. Raphael tuned more into Leonardo's voice, focusing on the familiar scratchy and harsh tones that accompanied his words.
"We'd tried to get there in time but.........but we were too late. The Shredder had gotten to Master Splinter first. We.......we could only watch as he slaughtered him and threw him off of the building........he......he died before he'd hit the ground."
Leonardo's voice spoke finishing their story and finally going silent. Raphael felt his older brother's tense posture, could feel the pain and grief coming from him. He could feel Donatello and Michelangelo's own emotional turmoil and it made his blood boil slightly as he couldn't help but feel completely useless in the moment. Raphael wanted nothing more than at that moment than to protect his brothers from all this, wanted nothing more than to make the pain go away. But he couldn't, he'd never be able too and it made him frustrated. The short tempered turtle teen looked away from his brothers and towards their counterparts quickly seeing that much like them they weren't doing too great either. Raph had seemed to have lost his battle with his tears and they flew down his face in tiny rivers. The large snapping turtle was obviously emotional distraught by what he'd just heard and Raphael couldn't help but feel a sort of kinder ship with his younger yet larger doppelganger.
'I know the feeling pal.'
Toxic green hues turned to see Mikey next, the box turtle a complete disaster and wreck. The youngest turtle teen was sobbing full force now, his wails full of heartbreak at hearing the story. His light brown hues were filled with tears and guilt and Raphael felt his heart go out to the box turtle. He had a feeling that Mikey blamed himself for this whole situation due to his question earlier and he was taking it rather harder than he should.
'Poor kid.....no one blames you so don't beat yourself up.'
Raphael thought before he finally took note of the twins who looked like they weren't even processing everything correctly. Donnie seemed to have completely broken down mentally somewhat, like he couldn't fathom this horrible situation. Leo on the other hand just looked haunted. Like he was plagued by memories himself. Raphael felt himself become uneasy at the look, because for one horrifying moment the smooth joking slider looked so much like Leonardo that it was scary. As if sensing his unease Leo's light blue hues snapped up to his bright green ones and it felt like at that moment that Leo could see straight into his soul.
'Jesus Christ that kid's got a look.....'
Raphael thought feeling suddenly open and vulnerable, like a butterfly pinned to a table. It unnerved him more than he'd ever admit and he couldn't help but glare slightly at the younger teen, his unspoken message loud and clear.
'Mind your own business or you'll be sorry kid.'
Leo's gaze never wavered but the red eared slider finally looked away from the shorter and older turtle and turned to look at Leonardo.
"I'm......I'm sorry for your loss. I......we couldn't imagine how it feels to lose a parent like that. But.......but if it helps we understand what it's like to lose someone you love."
Leo spoke his voice smooth and soft and serious. Raphael and his brothers looked at their counterparts curiously, as Leo continued on.
"Not too long ago.....me and my brothers had our lair attacked by our version of the Shredder. He......he destroyed our home and hurt our father and Draxum and.......and he murdered our Gram-Gram."
The red eared slider said a look of pain and anguish appearing on his face. The slider's brothers also seemed to become full of grief at the mention of their Gram-Gram, and Raphael felt his heart twist at the sight of it.
"Your Gram-Gram?"
Leonardo asked his voice rasping slightly in question. Raph nodded and Leo spoke up again.
"She was our grandmother. We didn't know her very long but......but we loved her and the Shredder.........she didn't make it......"
Leo finished his voice barely audible. A heavy silence filled the dojo as both groups of turtles silently grieved for those who had fallen in battle and Raphael couldn't help but suddenly speak up.
"We're sorry that you had to go through that. You didn't deserve to suffer like that."
The hot headed turtle said voice gruff and somewhat awkward. But the message was received and Raph was the one who responded to it.
"You guys didn't deserve to suffer either. None of us did."
The large snapping turtle said sincere and soft like as his dark green gaze flickered over Raphael and his brothers. Leonardo offered them a small nod, his eyes shining slightly and Raphael gripped his forearm to help steady him emotionally just as he'd done earlier. Leonardo's dark blue gaze flickered over to him in silent thanks before addressing the rest of the turtles.
"No we didn't........and we're going to make sure that you guys don't suffer much longer by helping you get back home so you can be with your loved ones."
Leonardo stated his voice strengthening in his determination to make it happen. Raphael couldn't help but feel a familiar spark of respect and admiration for his older brother, already knowing that his fearless big brother would make it happen. After that the two groups of turtles didn't speak much after that instead only quietly paying their respects for those who were no longer with them. After awhile Raphael watched their younger counterparts slowly start to get up from their places on the tatsumi mats and finally leave the dojo, obviously wanting to process and grieve privately. Once they were all out the four older turtles were the only ones who remained in the dojo. Donatello and Michelangelo had moved closer to the two oldest brothers making them become somewhat huddled together. The trio of younger brothers looked up at the eldest one, waiting for him to speak and let them know what they were going to do next. Leonardo didn't take long to answer their unspoken questions.
"I think we'll hold off on training for today and leave it for tomorrow. It's.....it's been a long day today and I think everyone just needs a moment to step back and breathe."
The fearless leader said his voice finally going out somewhat in the middle of his sentence. Donatello seemed to give him a narrow eyed look already going into his medic mode.
"That's a good idea Leo, in fact I think that you should have a tea break and relax your vocal chords a bit."
Donatello said his voice leaving no room for arguments. Leonardo looked like he wanted to argue but seeing Raphael and Michelangelo also give him a look he dropped it.
"Don't worry Dee, I'll sit with our bro here while you go get some. I'll make sure that he doesn't go anywhere."
Michelangelo said his voice a forced kind of chipper though they all knew that he was just as exhausted as them. Raphael stood up and stretched his back cracking a few of his joints.
"Since dorks one and two are gonna babysit ya, I'm gonna go to my room for a bit. I've had my fill today of emotional circles and hand holding."
The red clad turtle stated bluntly and somewhat rudely yet his brothers paid no mind to it, already knowing that Raphael needed some time to recover from everything and recoup.
"Alright bro, we'll see you later."
Michelangelo said giving him a small smile.
"If we need anything we'll let you know Raph."
Donatello piped up already getting up to get Leonardo his tea for his throat. Raphael just grunted and went to leave the dojo when Leonardo's voice spoke up with a slight crackle to it.
"We'll be here for when you come back."
Leonardo said an unspoken message within his sentence for the red turtle.
'If you need someone to talk to I'm all ears little brother, just come find me if you do.'
Raphael gave a small scoff sending a non heated glare towards the eldest son.
"Don't wait up for me Fearless, I'll be gone for awhile."
Raphael said already opening up the sliding doors and disappearing into the living room leaving his own unspoken message out in the open for Leonardo.
'I'll hold you to it brother, and the same goes for you too.'
Raphael walked past the living room being careful to not bother the other turtles who were currently sitting in the pit together and just basking in one another's presences as he slipped by and headed towards his room. Once he made it to the familiar door he turned the knob and stepped inside his safe haven, shutting the door behind him fully intending on beating the hell out of his punching bag to get rid of his anger and guilt. As he went to prepare himself he heard the familiar high pitched cry coming from his bedside table. Turning towards it he met the gaze of his beloved pet Chompy who had heard him come in and decided to greet him. Raphael felt his heart soften and a smile coming up onto his face.
"Hey Chompy, did you have a good morning?"
Raphael asked his tone soft and gentle earning a churr of delight from the little alien turtle. Raphael made his way towards the little turtle, and made himself comfortable on his bed as Chompy climbed into his lap churring and squeaking the entire time.
'Maybe I can punch my punching bag later.....'
He mused as he settled in and began to tell his small little friend about all of his troubles.
*I'm gonna be honest this most likely sucks but-! I've got some things planned for in future chapters and I'm gonna put a lot of thought into them because like I've said I'm a self indulgent trashy bitch and damnit I'm gonna keep doing my self indulgent bullshit lol. Anyways for some context on Raphael and why he's not quick to anger is because I like to think that the older Raphael gets the more better he gets at keeping his quick temper in check especially when Splinter died and it was just him and his brothers left. Also-! I do to intend to touch more on the deaths of Rise Karai and 2012 Splinter and all the things and emotions that the boys personally go through I've just got to get it all planned out and I'll go from there. Again I apologize that this chapter sucks it'll get better (hopefully maybe idk we'll see). Anyways if any y'all read this I hope you enjoyed it!!!*
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