#and i think with raph he just needs reasons. he needs to be told that this isnt his fault. he needs Apologies and Reparations

[qoldenskies]

what would it take for any of the teetles to trust something magic and/or something from witchtown again?

assuming this is about cc, tbh i dont think there's any completely mending that bridge. there inevitably will be people who will attempt to try, especially once everything with the invasion is over and they're celebrated for the whole. saving the world thing (could be shallow or genuine. is it for social capital or out of genuine remorse and guilt? i do think them attempting to make a gesture of gratitude just to look good could create some juicy drama lmao). but they're really not going to budge. they'd probably make a scene if they were ever approached, leo or mikey especially. raph is FURIOUS about it, but he doesn't like expressing that anger all that much. not unless he's pushed beyond a certain point.

i dont actually know how donnie would take something like that, though? because of course he's upset, but any bitterness that might remain from the whole experience might be rivaled by his revoltingly low self-esteem. although he feels guilty more than anything for his own foolishness putting that kind of trauma and guilt on his brothers, even if he struggles to comprehend he didn't deserve what they did to him. it's a big reason he'll try to punish himself-- he cant hurt them like that, but someone has to, right?

his protectiveness wars with his skewed principles. i do think that on a personal level he would be forgiving to a witch that tried to apologize to him, to the chagrin of his whole family lmfao. i dont think he'd truly mean it, but he would kind of determine it's the best way to avoid further conflict. if they make a good impression, maybe they wont get hurt anymore. maybe donnie wont continue to hurt them anymore, although inadvertently. he'd probably let them kill him if they promised not to hurt his family anymore, but he's working on. that. whole thing. his backbone of fucking Liquid

[siri-ike]

Authers note: This is a long fic, so prepare yourself... emotionally. Also, there is so much text before you even get to the prompt. Ever heard of a ficlet? Neither have I.

"Took you guys long enough"

Leo had come up with a thousand puns and oneliners for when he'd eventually get rescued, but now he couldn't remember a single one. One was something about catching them at the next alien invasion, or maybe it was... hold on

"Eww, are we on Staten Island?!"

Is this real? It's real this time! He never would have fantasized about being rescued to Staten Island. It's barely an improvement over the prison dimension. He'd imagined being rescued into the 1984 red carpet showing of Crouching Shrimp Hidden Tiger Prawn or that Cute waiter from Quesos riding in shirtless on a unicorn and then they would, heh, um, never mind. Leo's pointy head starts to hurt, letting him know he'd been crying. When did he start crying? When did Raph pick him up? Whose van is this?

"Leonardo. Leo, are you awake?"

Can't tell whose voice it is. How long does it take to forget a voice?

"Leo look at me. You need to stay awake."

That one's Donnie, no doubt about it. His face is just like it was in the photo, rectangular and blurry and real, he's right here in front of him. Leo manages to hold out a hand which is immediately grabbed by his real twin who isn't imaginary.

"Jupiter Jim has nothing on me now."

Giggles. Somewhere. Mikey. Definitely.

"That's great, can you tell me what day it is?"

"Definitely one of them. Ends in a Y. Full of hours."

"Leo, focus. Can you tell me... something. Common, what were those questions you taught us?"

Most people wouldn't realize this, but Leo knows Donnie's panicking. It's a bad look for him. Where's the emotionally unavailable bad boy. Now he's just this vague outline in a van, next to a couple of other vague outlines and some human boy. Did they know a human boy? Did they meet during the fight?

Leo's train of thought was interrupted by the sound of an even tinier little brother (hehe younger twin barb)

"How many animals can you name starting with the letter B?"

Great question! Leo's awsome at multiple choice.

"Bullhop, Big mama, Beebop, Bambi, Boss Bruce, Baloo, b bb, uh, 'Bearto."

Ha, Leo knows lots of Bs

"Ok, not bad. Not the assignment either, but overall, I'm gonna take this as a 'not as bad as it could be'."

Says Donnie's voice, but his face is gone. It's faded with everything else. Soon, nothing remains but the warm comforting feeling of being held by a big wall of muscle.

Leo doesn't remember the following 17 days as he was firmly unconscious. For 2 weeks after that he would only recall the occasional moment. Waking up to find Mikey cuddled up to him, Raph reading a book out loud (to the best of his ability), April studying or dad humming a familiar sounding lullaby. These were all common sights, but not nearly as often did he see them as Donnie. Donnie was seemingly always there. The others were clearly taking shifts, but Donnie would be there even when someone else was too. Sometimes, though, he would be alone. Those times, it seemed like Leo was talking to him. But Leo knew he wasn't talking.

"I'm not giving up on him!"

Mikey cries out. He can do this, Casey said future him had opened a time gate to send him there. A portal to another dimention can't be that different from a portal to another time, right? A spark crackles in front of him. It's working! Casey was right! Just have to do it about 20 years earlier. How hard can that be? A hand on Mikeys shoulder snaps him out of his head.

"We're here Mikey, together."

And then another hand. The portal grows bigger as he tries to fill his thoughts with memories of his older brother, teaching him to skateboard, watching Lou Jitsu together, he still hadn't writing that crossover he'd promised to get around to. Thick tears welled up in his eyes as he giggled to himself. Theres Leo, right beyond his hands, they burn. It hurts so much. Fu- Fundo, Kusari-Fundo, this hurts. No! Leo's more important.

"Took you guys long enough"

Just push past the pain. It'll all be worth it; in the future. Suddenly, Raphs ninpō arm shoots past him, reaching straight towards Leo. As soon as they're both out, both hands dissappear from Mikey's shoulders, and the cracks forming on his arms burn brighter and hotter. How do you close a portal? He's never opened a portal before, unless you count the hidden city doorways, but those close on their own. Will this close on its own? There's little time to think as the Kraang is headed towards them. Picture something. A locked door, big strong arms holding the Kraang stuck, a treasure chest with scary stuff inside like in that one story with the monsters in it. And just like that, the portal closes, and the monster is locked away. But the burning continues. Mikey turns around and runs back to where his brothers kneel huddled around Leo, who lay on the ground. He doesn't move for what feels like minutes but probably weren't really. Finaly he opens his eyes and...

"Eww, are we on Staten Island?"

There's your que. Time to squeeze your team leader as hard as you can.

"Leo. Leo! Leo, wake up!"

Donnie screamed, and time seemed to speed up. Before Mikey could figure out what was going on, he was being dragged into a van by Casey Jr. Must have gotten a little too absorbed in the moment, Mikey had pretty much forgotten he existed.

"Leonardo. Leo, are you awake?"

It always feels a little weird hearing one of their names out loud, their full names. It's always 'red, purple, blue, orange, Don Tron, Nardo, orthello, Peaches, bootyyyshaker, jello, Donald, red angel of preventing harm, Donovan, Angelo, pancakes... Leo comes up with most of these to tease Donnie, so it makes sence that he'd have so many.

"Leo, focus. Can you tell me... something. Common, what were those questions you taught us?"

Oh, right focus Mikey. Your brothers need you.

"How many animals can you name starting with the letter B?"

That was the only question Mikey bothered to memorize. And given Leo's awnser, he'd clearly asked it a few too many times. Do yokai count as animals? Mutants and cartoon characters definitely do, but he might have to deduct points for Boss Bruce. And who the shell is Bebop? Raph gives Mikey a disaproving look. Did he hear that? It's not even a real swear.

"No, no,no,no. Leo, stay awake. Come on, please."

Donnie Beggs desperately, he's been showing a lot of facial expressions for one day. A lot for donnie anyway. He'll definitely need to talk about that later. And Raph. Who knows what those Kraang did to him? And dad? And April? They must have been terrified. What about Casey? Oh my God, his whole world is gone. Even though we won, he lost everyone he knew!

"Mikey."

He feels her hands on his scales, one holding his own and the other gently wiping a tear from his cheek.

"How ya doin'? Do you need ice chips, too?"

She takes her hand away from his face and reaches for a to-go cup full of ice to offer him. The ice helps. It's one of the psychology tricks he'd picked up from the internet. His scientific explanation to the team had been: Can't panic when mouth full of ice. Which, everyone but Donnie had exepted without question. This led to two hours of research, resulting in an entire presentation that could have been sumed up as: Can't panic when mouth full of ice.

"Thanks."

Mikey finally mumbled when his heart rate had slowed back down enough to speak. April didn't bother with a response, instead focusing on Mikeys hands. They hadn't stopped shaking since closing the portal.

"How are the others?"

"They're being taken care of. What happened to your arms?"

Mikey looks down at his arms to see the cracks still there. The intense burning light they emitted before had dulled to a smoldering glow, enough to slightly alter the hue of everything nearby. Something else is off, though, besides the light. A low humm. Coming from the cracks. He holds his elbow up to his ear, and from there, he can barely hear anything. He let's go of the stabilizing force that is April's tight grip on his hands and holds them up to his ear. His face turns pale as he tries to convince himself that it's not real. It's not what he thinks... The monster is locked away.

"Mikey, it's over."

"Leo never gave up on us, I'm not giving up on him."

A sprak appears infront of his smallest brother that soon turns into a big glowing portal. Could that work? Could they get Leo back?

"Mikey"

Shock and astonishment colored Raphs words.

"Whatever you're doing, don't stop."

Raph has never been the most observant or understandy or word-smart compared to his brothers, but any muscle head could see (and hear) how much Mikey was struggling with this. And without thinking, Raph placed his hand on Mikeys sholder.

"We're here, Mikey, together."

He didn't even know he could take some or the strain away. He just thought he could offer some encouragement or something. But Raphs also not one to question a good thing (or most things). It burns, holy cr- carapace, this hurts a lot. And not in the way getting punced of falling from a high place hurts. More like how getting your hands cut up with a burning knife hurts. The 'lasting side affects' kind of way. But it's worth it. 'Cause there's Leo. His mouth moved. Did he say something? Hope it wasn't important. Here goes. Raph reached out into the void in front of him. Further and further into the cold inky darkness. Raph is fast, especially for such a big guy. Much faster than Kraang.

"Eww, are we on Staten Island?"

Sometimes, it seems like they actively try to raise Raphs blood pressure. Sometimes, it feels like his brothers just want to get themselves killed. Sometimes, they just plain get on his nerves. But right now, it's really hard to be upset. Even if he probably should be. Right now, there's nothing Raph would like more than to pick them all up and carry them home, and when they'd get home, he'd just keep carrying them around forever. Like a bunch of stuffed animals.

A van speeds towards them and stops about 3 full Aprils away. Like if she were lying on the ground, there would be room for 3 of her. The car door slid open, and Casey jumped out so fast, Raph had barely gotten up with Leo in his arms before he'd closed the distance. He's not gonna get to pick them all up, but at least Leo isn't protesting.

"Leo. Leo! Leo, wake up!"

Oh, that must be why. Panic! Panic! Panic! They just saved him he can't be dead! He cantfbd, whadifff, hwueeaj, noOooOo. Usually Raph gets a lot more panicking done in moments like these, but this time he came to a screeching halt when one of Donnies robot spider arms stuck a spider hand sized abount of ice cubes into his mouth. Yuck, it tastes like Kraang. Must have been the ice from his battle shell. How many battle shells have ice in them? Doesn't matter. Let's just get everyone in the van. There's no light in the back of the car. Making the light coming from mikeys hands and arms that much more noticeable. Weird, the glowing usualy stops sooner. Aprils here, too, driving the van. Raph would recognize those hair poofs anywhere. And Casey has like 6 giant first aid dufflebags. Do they need that many, or were they just being cautious. That question is soon answered when Raph watches Casey search through multiple bags before finding some sort of medical thingy. They aren't fully stocked. We're they salvaged or stolen, though? Stay on track.

"Do you have any more ice?"

"No, sorry."

"...it's fine. Tasted like Kraang anyway."

Why does he even want more? It was gross, stupid. Bad ice. It would be really nice to have some more, though.

"I see a Chick-fil-A near by, we could get ice there."

"Boo, Chick-fil-A."

What? Is he even conscious?

"Ok, well, it's missing a wall, and it doesn't look like anyone is there. We could just go in and grab a glassfull of ice."

Raph's not sure this Casey is a good influence. Heroes don't steal. Although, they did just prevent the apocalypse. That probably makes it ok.

Da-m-madge-per-second, Casey's a little to comfortable stealing. Guess he did grow up in the apocalypse. Maybe it was normal there.

"Guys, check it out. They just had a bunch of food lying around in there. The past is awesome."

Casey said as he dropped another first aid kit in the pile. Ok, so he just takes these wherever he sees em. Did he pick this habit up in the future? Makes sense. That future did sound pretty awful. At least they know it's not going to happen. Casey gonna need a room when they get home, might have to clear out more tunnels. Or maybe they can find more train cars. Wait, Casey's human though, would he need a human place to live, like April's apartment. A rattling infront of his face snaps Raph out of his head.

"Do you want some ice chips, the cold shocks your brain enough to stop the panic. We had something similar in the future, Uncle Tello made these marbles that freeze themselves. Or at least that's what he said they did. I'm pretty sure Master Michelangelo made them and they just didn't tell people 'cause he wasn't supposed to use magic unnecessary, cause he, uhm, nevermind."

It would be like his little brother to ignore warnings. Carefull isn't even in his, uh, those, um, word books, that tell you what words mean. Raph chomps down on a handful of ice and... breathe.

"Boss Bruce, Baloo, b bb, uh, 'Bearto."

Raph looks at Mikey, whose arms are still glowing a bit. The cracks look just as bad as they were. He looks at his own hand. The cracks are barely visible now. It just looks extra dry. Raph looks at Mikey again. This time, he must have had some sort of look on his face because Mikey seemed uncomfortable with the eyecontact.

Donnie's nice and accurate account of events in exact detail and order of occurrence, category 12: world threatening disaster 3. Codenamed the Kraang invasion of 2022. Part 7: Saving Leo

He cried. He never cries. He didn't even cry when his favorite pizza place was destroyed. It doesn't help. Leo's gone, Leo's gone, Leo's gone. And being on Staten Island deffinetly isn't helping his mental state either. Maybe there's a way to fix this. He knows Leo. He could just... make a robot replica and program it with his memories, or, or a clone, Draxum would probably know something about that, he would actually have to interact with him, but Leo is worth temporary Barry time. Wait, no, Mikey and Raph would never approve. Stupid 'morals'.

A bright orange light bursts into being a few meters away. What are they doing? When did Raph get up? Is that. Mikey screaming? Did something else happen?

"...together."

Together. They need my help with something. Donnie rushes over to his two remaining brothers, seeing Raphs hand on mikeys left sholder, he places his own on his right. A burning sensation crawls up from his palm to his elbow. It hurts, but it's nothing compared to the tentacles. Donnie would take fire over slime any day. Why did the ship have to be slimy? It would have been so much easier if it had been sharp, hot, or just full of guns. That would have been- SHH- SHELL-don's spare processing chips. Mikey just opened a portal. That's the prison dimension. It has to be. That blue blurry blob must be Leo. It was a little hard to tell since he'd lost his contacts at some point. Suddenly, a flash of red light takes over everything, presumably Raph's ninpō. Donnie thought it best to stay near the biggest green blob for the time being. Newton forbid he actually admit he can't see.

"Eww, are we on Staten Island?"

Who needs optic input? That's definitely Leo.

"Leo. Leo! Leo, wake up!"

Dont panic. That won't help. And of course, Raph has to immediately fail the assignment. Dam- Dalton, John Dalton: chemist, physicist, meteorologist. It's definitely not a swear. They were only allowed one for the movie.

That ice was deffinetly contaminated with unknown Kraang juices ~yeugh~. It's okay. It's okay. The cold is what matters, not the taste, besides its going in Raphs mouth, not his own. Now, they can get into the van with Casey. Donnie would prefer April assisting him as she is more predictable, although it's probably best not to have a boy from the apocalypse, where they probably didn't even have cars, driving. Oh good, he has plenty of medical supplies in random amounts and of varying degrees of sanitation. That's fine. Cleanliness can't be that important when it comes to first aid. They all grew up in the sewer for Curie's sake. Their immune systems could ward off bullets.

"Do you have any more ice?"

"No, sorry."

"...it's fine. Tasted like Kraang anyway."

Knew it.

"I see a Chick-fil-A near by, we could get ice there."

"Boo, Chick-fil-A."

Can't disagree on that one.

"Leonardo. Leo, are you awake?"

"Casey, you go get the ice, I'll take care of Leo."

And without a word, he was out the door. He was undoubtedly taught by future Donnie.

"Jupiter Jim has nothing on me now."

Dumdum

"That's great, can you tell me what day it is?"

"Definitely one of them. Ends in a Y. Full of hours."

Stop it. He's trying to help you.

"Leo, focus. Can you tell me... something. Common, what were those questions you taught us?"

"How many animals can you name starting with the letter B?"

He totally had it under control, but thanks for the help, Mikey.

"Bullhop, Big mama, Beebop, Bambi, Boss Bruce, Baloo, b bb, uh, 'Bearto."

"Ok, not bad. Not the assignment either, but overall, I'm gonna take this as a 'not as bad as it could be'."

Although that last one was a bit of a cheat.

"Leo look at me. You need to stay awake."

No. No. No. Calm down, Donnie it's okay he just proved he probably doesn't have a concussion. Maybe he's just exhausted after the fight... OR MAYBE HES BLEEDING OUT!

Wait! Donnie, you're such an idiot. Just check his wrist comm. It should have his vitals on it.

Donnie grabs Leo's arm and brings it closer. This can't be right. Donnie just made these last week. But, it's worn. Not worn as in damaged in the fight. Worn as in aged. It looks like it hasn't been taken off for months. And the record is near capacity.

<Later at the medical bay>

It's going to be brutal. 2500 hours? That's 104 days just in recordings. Three and a half months. And there's no way he was talking the whole time. Leo can talk a lot, but even he must get tired of his voice at some point. And more importantly, does Donnie really want to listen to what is almost certainly his twins decent into madness. Or further into madness in his case. Think about this logically, Donnie. If you listen to the recordings, you'll know what he went through, and you'll be able to give the right treatment. And if the trauma is all psychological, it'll just be Mikeys problem. Here goes, just have to press play. Donnies hand hovers over the button for what must have been a solid minute. But eventually, he does it. Rips of the bandage, so to speak. And braces for impact.

"Mission log. I've managed to avoid the enemy for now"

Is he doing his Jupiter Jim voice?

Part 2

AU where Leo is trapped in the Prison Dimension for months instead of minutes and the only way he gets by with his sanity intact is through recording himself talking to his wrist comm.

When they finally manage to get Leo back and make him rest up to heal, Donnie can’t help but listen to the recordings left behind.

He’s not sure what exactly he’s expecting, only that his subconscious is screaming at him that it has to be heartbreaking, that it has to be torturous.

Instead, what Donnie is subject to is a full thousand hours’ worth of Jupiter Jim and Lou Jitsu crossover fanfiction. More than one part in the series. Spanning well over a million words.

(The worst part is that it’s actually good.)

[outer-andromeda]

Pretty generic question but does your player and the toys accompanying them ever have any moments where there’s nothing crazy going on in the factory and they have a moment to relax? Do they try to talk things out with the others during this time? Or is it just a moment of silence and taking in the peace of the quiet factory?

Oof, it's AU ramble time again. Also another question mix!! Hope you don't mind @an-eggs-quest & @tallahatchet (sorry for the tag sjkdfhskfhd).

Back in Safe Haven, they had tons of quiet moments, compared to what Raph would've have while descending deeper and deeper in the factory, which was... pretty much equal to zero.

The guy took to heart what Doey told him about "catching his breath". He would want to sit around the kids, maybe manage to cheer them up a bit and get them to laugh somehow. He'd also get curious about the drawings on the wall and would want to add his little contribution. Poor guy needs to feed his artistic brain a bit lmao. I like to think the critters would be intrigued and watch, maybe some of them would even join him. And maybe they'd make a drawing all together. It distracts everyone for a little while.

Raph tried taking things easy. As much as feasibly possible in their situation. It brought him a sense of normalcy he realized he terribly needed. And for a little while, he felt like genuinely smiling again.

After the Safe Haven incident, breaks are less frequent. The whole gang is tense from 1. everything that's already happened 2. the loss of their friends and 3. knowing they're being tracked down by Huggy and (presumably) the Prototype.

But when they find a remotely quiet and well-hidden spot, they let themselves relax. Catch some sleep. Even if just for a bit. They need the energy after all.

... Catnap usually keeps a sleepy eye on everyone. As for Raph...

... Let's... not talk about sleep. For reasons. (Bonus rambles in the tags !)

(Pattern banners by @cafekitsune ! Thought they'd add a nice aesthetic look to the post. Might use more for future rambles.)

[httpvomitello]

HI YOUR WRITING MAKES MY HEART SOAR! Just recently got back on my tmnt love and I was thinking. How would the guys react when they find out the woman they love also loves them back? Like they’ve been pining for months/YEARS even!! Maybe they still do or at some point they decide to abandon all feelings but then she tells them herself or maybe she or April accidentally let’s it slip to the turts. Would they immediately make a move? Would they get embarrassed and withdraw? I need to knowwwww 💙❤️💜🧡

Awwwn, thank you soooo much! Seriously, reading this makes me so happy. Hope you like it! ♡♡♡♡

Do You Like Me Too? *⁠.⁠✧

Leo had trained himself to set his feelings aside. So he kept everything bottled up—only allowing himself brief moments to imagine what it would be like if you felt the same way.

But that all changes one night while you and Leo are practicing together. You’ve been working on some new moves, and Leo’s been your patient mentor, guiding you, helping you adjust your stance.

After a particularly successful move, he gives you an approving smile. "Nice job, (Y/N). You’re really getting the hang of it."

You grin, catching your breath as you hold his gaze. But then, suddenly, your face softens, and the words slip out almost like a sigh: "Maybe I’m just trying to impress you."

Leo freezes, his heart hammering. He’s sure he must have misheard. "What?"

"I like you, Leo. Like… really like you." You smile shyly, as if the weight of your confession is finally off your shoulders. "I don’t think I could have hidden it much longer."

For a split second, Leo’s mind races. Every reason he’s ever come up with to keep his distance vanishes. His face softens, and he takes a deep breath, daring to move closer.

"I—" His voice catches, and he looks down, gathering his thoughts. "I thought I could just… bury these feelings and keep them hidden. For the sake of you, really. I didn’t want you to feel any kind of pressure…or guilt."

Your heart aches at the vulnerability in his eyes, and you reach up to gently cup his face, bringing his gaze back to yours. "Leo, you don’t have to hold back. I don’t want you to."

"I’ve loved you for so long, (Y/N)," he whispers, his voice rough with emotion. "But I thought it was selfish of me to want you in my life that way."

Your gaze softens as you lean in closer. "Then let yourself be selfish for once, Leo."

He closes the remaining distance between you, pressing his lips softly against yours in a kiss that speaks of all the months he’s held back

“I think I could get used to this,” he murmurs, his voice filled with happiness.

Raph tried to deny his feelings for you for as long as he could. Sure, he’d admired you, flirted a little, maybe even let his jealousy slip out when someone else had your attention. But he never dared to take it any further. You deserved better, he’d tell himself, so he kept his distance and convinced himself it was better this way.

April, though, had always seen right through him. She knew he was hiding a soft spot under that gruff exterior, and she'd caught on to his little glances and subtle protectiveness.

One day, she comes over to your place with a casual, “So…when are you finally gonna tell Raph that you like him too?”

You blink, stunned. “Excuse me?”

April goes still, the color draining from her face as she realizes her mistake. “Oh no, I didn’t mean to—oh man, please don’t tell Raph I said anything.”

But you’re still processing, and your cheeks flush. “Wait, he…he likes me?”

April’s eyes widen as she realizes the floodgate she’s just opened. “Um…well, yeah, he kinda has for a long time.” She winces, giving you a guilty smile. “But he’d kill me if he knew I told you.”

You can’t help but smile, your heart racing at the thought. “I think it’s time I go have a talk with him.”

Raph’s sitting in the gym later that evening, he doesn’t notice you at first, so you clear your throat, causing him to look up, startled.

“Oh, hey,” he says, masking his surprise. “Didn’t expect to see you here.”

You sit beside him, watching as he fidgets with a wrench, not quite meeting your eyes. After a moment, you take a deep breath. “Raph… April told me something today. And I need to know if it’s true.”

He freezes, his grip on the wrench tightening. “Oh yeah? What’d she say?”

“She…mentioned that you might have feelings for me.”

The wrench clatters to the floor as Raph turns to you, his face a mixture of panic and frustration. “Damn it, April—she wasn’t supposed to say anything.”

You reach out, placing a hand on his arm to calm him. “Raph, it’s okay. Actually… it’s more than okay.”

He looks up at you, searching your face, his eyes filled with hope and uncertainty. “What’re you saying?”

You smile, your own cheeks flushing. “I feel the same way, Raph. I’ve been wanting to tell you for ages, but I was worried about how you’d react.”

For a moment, he just stares at you, as if waiting for the punchline. Then, unable to hold back, he pulls you into a tight hug, pressing his forehead against yours.

"Damn, I thought you’d never notice," he whispers, his voice rough but full of relief.

Donnie had always been the hopeless romantic, pining for you in ways that even he knew were a little over the top. He could spend hours in his lab thinking about you, wondering if maybe, just maybe, you could ever feel the same. But he never dared to say anything, especially when every little interaction with you made his heart race to the point he thought he’d lose all composure.

But April knew. Of course she did; she could read Donnie like a book. And on one of your usual visits to the lair, she accidentally lets something slip.

"Donnie, you’re so silly!" you laugh, watching him fumble through some tech explanation he’s giving you. The way you smile at him has him grinning like a fool, and April can't resist rolling her eyes. She's seen this situation too many times, and as she leans back, she accidentally mutters, “If only she knew how much you’re into her…”

You freeze. “Wait, what?” You turn to April, wide-eyed, and Donnie goes pale, his mouth opening in horror as he stares at April.

April realizes her slip-up too late, and her cheeks go red. “I mean—I…uh, have to go grab something from the kitchen!” she stammers, bolting before either of you can ask her another question.

There’s a long, awkward silence as you turn to Donnie, waiting for an answer. “Is that true?” you ask softly.

Donnie’s eyes dart around, searching for some form of escape, but when none appears, he swallows hard and nods. “Yeah… it’s true. I’ve liked you for…a long time, actually.” His face flushes as he finally admits it, looking anywhere but at you.

A small smile tugs at your lips, and you reach out to gently touch his arm. “Donnie… I like you too.”

The words hit him like a shockwave, and his wide eyes finally meet yours. “Wait—what? You…you like me?”

You nod, your smile growing, and that’s all he needs. Slowly, a shy but delighted smile spreads across his face, and he lets out a little laugh, his fingers brushing against yours. "I never thought this day would actually come," he whispers.

With a grin, you step closer, and he reaches out, letting his hand brush your cheek before finally leaning in, pulling you into a gentle kiss, his heart racing with pure joy.

Mikey had always been open about his affection for you. Playful, flirty, and constantly teasing, he never held back with compliments and affectionate gestures. But you’d always just laughed and brushed him off, thinking it was just part of his personality.

What you didn’t know was that underneath his bright smiles and lighthearted antics, he’d been pining for you, hiding just how much he cared. For months, he’d wondered if you could ever take him seriously, if you’d ever see him as more than a friend.

One day, you decided to finally tell him how you felt. You’d noticed he’d been holding back a bit lately, that maybe, just maybe, he didn’t want to joke around as much. So you decided to risk it, showing up at the lair to talk to him.

He greets you with his usual grin, "Hey, (Y/N)! What’s up?"

"Mikey… can we talk for a sec?"

His smile falters, and he swallows, his hands fidgeting as he looks at you. "Yeah, of course. What’s on your mind?"

You take a deep breath, your heart pounding. "I just wanted to tell you that… well, I like you. More than a friend, I mean."

For a second, Mikey’s face is blank, and then it lights up in pure, unfiltered joy. "Wait—are you serious?" He lets out a little laugh, almost like he can’t believe it. "You really like me?"

"Yeah," you say, your own smile growing as you see how genuinely happy he looks. "I mean, I thought you’d already know by now."

Mikey practically bounces on his feet, letting out a loud whoop. Without missing a beat, he pulls you into a hug, lifting you slightly as he spins you around, laughing with pure excitement.

"I knew it! I knew there was something between us!" he says, eyes shining. Then he looks at you with a playful grin, leaning close as he whispers, "Guess that makes me your favorite turtle, huh?"

With a laugh, you press a kiss to his cheek, and he turns bright red but doesn’t stop smiling.

[blueberri-blu]

Learning You...

Leo

Omg!! My first writing!

If you have any constructive criticism I'd love to hear it! I'm pretty new to this so I'll take any advice I can get!

I feel like this can be interpreted as Bayverse or 2012 Leo

No Trigger warnings, but let me know if I need to add any ^^

Donnie ♡⁠˖ Mikey ♡⁠˖ Raph ♡⁠˖

Leo

Meeting Him

You meet on one of the rare times he goes outside without his brothers, looking for peace and quiet

You're walking back home after a long day, unfortunately in the dark

Some guys come out from an alley way and grab you, making you scream as loud as you can for help

Leo hears you, and runs as fast as he can

Although he tried his best to stay in the shadows as he beat them down, you were able to take a small glimpse at him

For a second you could see is hesitance, but you thanked him softly, as to not scare him

He was surprised, but pulled himself together to keep his cool, and gave you his number in case you needed anything (and only casually threatened you if you ever made his existence known)

Befriending Him

After a couple of incidents where you felt unsafe and wanted him to walk you home, he gained the confidence to invite you to hangout

He wanted to get to know you better (as one of the few people who knew about him) before meeting his brothers

He'd pick you up at your rooftop, and he gets there about 15 minutes early, not wanting to waste your time

You go on a long walk, talking about anything and everything

These walks became your weekly routine, and soon he'd feel comfortable enough for you to meet his brothers

When you go to meet his brothers, Leo is nervous, though he doesn't let it show

Mikey immediately warms up to you, Donnie just throwing in a quick Nice to meet you!, Raph on the other hand is apprehensive

It takes a while, and multiple visits to the lair, but all of the brothers get accustomed to your presence

Leo finds the bond you have with his brothers another reason to trust you

As friends, you and leo mainly sit and meditate, or have tea

Your peaceful walks are now almost nightly, as you two talk about your struggles, comforting each other with your presence

First Date

Being the traditional gentleman he is, it takes awhile for home to ask you out

He prefers to befriend beforehand

He wants to get to know you first

When he does ask you out, it's with flowers and chocolates

He totally asks Master Splinter beforehand for advice

He asks you out for dinner on a rooftop

He wants to do this right, and Master Splinters told him to be true to his heart

The night is filled with nervous giggles and bashful eyes

He takes note of everything you do

The way you look away when you make eye contact, or the foods you don't seem too keen on eating

At the end of the night, he walks you home

(more like carries you to your rooftop)

Once you get there, he doesn't quite know what to do

But you lean in and kiss him on the cheek and say goodnight and thank you

He practically skips home afterwards

Dating Him

After awhile, he gets comfortable with you

He won't look away in embarrassment as much

He is still very attentive and detail oriented

You'll find your favorite snack in the lair

And his brothers seem to be in their best behavior (as good as they can be) when you come over

You meet Master Splinter after the fifth date

He loves and adores you, thinking you'll help leo relax a bit and help him manage his many burdens

You get along well with master splinter, coming over for tea and meditation

Leo loves that you've integrated well with his family

He just loves you with all he can, bringing you flowers and your favorite snack whenever he can "just because"

All in all, I think with Leo it would be a slow burn traditional and romantic relationship 💙🩵

[bitethedevil]

Raphael dealing with another fiend that is offering something to the cambion in exchange for an entire night with Tav. Not Haarlep in Tav's form, but Tav. Now, two things about this fiend: 1. They want to know what's so special about Raphael's little mouse and experience it for themself. 2. This fiend is extremely sadistic and refuses to agree to any deal that would stipulate Tav ends up unharmed or even alive by the time the mortal is returned because, "I think we both know I can't promise that."

It's a bit of a short one. Raph loses his patience. Thank you for the prompt <3 <3 as always: it’s not super edited.

TW: Mention of Non-con

Diplomacy

Being the Archdevil of Avernus only came with so much power. Though Raphael had delegated his responsibility to others, seeing as he was not exactly the fierce army general that Zariel had been and Bel before her, the Blood War was currently a mess. Him gaining his new position had caused just enough chaos that they had fallen behind in the war.

Raphael needed resources, the cooperation of the other layers, and most of all he needed for them to trust in his leadership. Unfortunately, trust was the most rare and expensive resource in the Hells, and it did not come for free. There was not a devil in the Hells that was not forced to participate in the Blood War, such was the laws, though when and how was an entirely different matter. Raphael needed men now.

He could simply use the Crown of Karsus to force someone to hand over their men, though he was also painfully aware that the more his power relied on the Crown, the easier it would be for him to lose it, should it somehow slip out of his fingers. He was careful and he played fair…for now. He might not be an army general or a soldier, but he was a strategist.

He was talking to a fiend from Dis that could grant him thousands of men immediately. The conversation was going well. It seemed promising, though Raphael also knew that this was not going to be cheap. They finally reached the end of the fiend’s pitch.

“A very generous offer indeed,” Raphael said calmly while holding back any sign that he desperately needed this deal. “What is your price?”

The fiend gave him a wicked smile.

“Five hundred souls,” the fiend said.

Raphael raised an eyebrow.

“And…?” Raphael said with a hand gesture to urge him on. “Surely you would not sell your army to me for such a low cost.”

“Five hundred souls, my lord,” he repeated. “And a night with that little mortal of yours.”

Raphael’s eyes narrowed.

“And which mortal would that be?” Raphael asked. “I have thousands of mortals under my thumb across Toril. Be specific.”

He had an idea of who he thought the fiend meant, but he hoped that he was mistaken.

“You know who,” the fiend said. “Your little favorite. The one that gave you your crown. The one that my connections say you are still visiting even now. I want to know what’s so special about her.”

The familiar feeling of anger started bubbling up in him, though he tried to keep it down. This was a powerplay. A powerplay to show him that he was being watched and that the fiend had no respect for him.

“She’s not mine,” Raphael said with a dismissive hand gesture. “She fulfilled her end of the bargain. Her soul is hers. The only reason I visit her is to convince her to hand it over to me. I have not succeeded yet so I cannot give you what you want.”

“Ah but I think you’re lying,” the fiend countered. “Five hundred souls and her. That’s my price. I won’t change it.”

Raphael’s claws were starting to dig into the arms of the chair he was sitting in. The sheer audacity of this other devil was infuriating. He would not let himself be accused of lying or spoken to in such a way, and yet he was now forced to if he wanted to get what he needed from him.

“I’ve told you,” Raphael said. “I cannot give you what I don’t have. I have an incubus in my possession who has her form. That is something I can offer you.”

The fiend shook his head with that same annoying grin on his face.

“Her,” the fiend said. “I won’t settle for less. I know you can convince her. She likes you, doesn’t she? Trusts you, even. You can lure her somewhere, I’ll use a glamour spell to look like you, and do my business. It’s perfectly legal, and no contract needed. It’s only for a night.”

It took everything to keep down the rage that Raphael felt spreading through his body. If he agreed to this, he would never get her to give him her soul. Besides, he did not treat his favorite clients this way. Especially the one who gave him everything he had ever wanted. And yet, he needed this deal. He had to entertain the idea at least.

“I would perhaps consider it,” Raphael said and raised a finger to him. “If…you can guarantee me her survival and that no unnecessary harm comes to her. You will persuade her, not take her against her will.”

The fiend burst out laughing. Raphael ground his teeth in irritation at the sound.

“She’s mortal,” the fiend said. “Of course she’ll be harmed. Fragile little things that lot. You want me to seduce her? Offer her serenades and roses?” The fiend laughed even harder. “You won’t survive for long as the Archdevil of the First, boy.”

Complete silence fell over the room for a moment

“Boy?” Raphael repeated slowly, his tone dripped with warning.

“Yes. A boy,” the fiend said with a grin. “That mortal part of you is surely there, bastard. I would never have thought Mephistopheles son to be this soft…Ah, no matter. You said the girl wasn’t yours, eh? I’ll stay in your good graces then. Five hundred souls. I’ll find the bitch myself then. That’ll keep you out of any trouble. I’ll even be so kind to give her something that will make her lie there nicely without protest while I fuck her, since your heart is so soft for the girl.”

Raphael took a deep breath and suddenly something changed in his expression.

“You’ll do no such thing,” Raphael said. He was suddenly eerily calm. “In fact, I’m suddenly not in a particularly generous mood, so you will hand over your men without any payment.”

“You what?” the fiend said with a flat chuckle, as if the thought was ridiculous.

“You heard me just fine,” Raphael said with a smile. “I’ll expect them on the front lines tomorrow.”

“Absolutely not,” the fiend said.

Raphael waved his hand, and the fiend was shoved through the room. His magic pinned him to the nearest wall. The fiend’s eyes glowed purple as Raphael dominated his mind. Raphael walked over to him with slow steps.

“They will be there tomorrow,” Raphael said slowly. “I will speak with ‘my little favorite’. I will tell her of your little offer and see if she wants to play with you a little first. The girl is awfully sloppy with a knife, but she can take her time, seeing as you are going to lie there nicely without protest. After, you will be with your men on the front lines, as a lemure. Do you understand your orders?”

The fiend mindlessly nodded.

“Good,” Raphael said with a wide smile. “A pleasure doing business with you. Now, go order your men.”

So much for diplomacy…

[goodlucktai]

hold the world to its best (3/?)

rottmnt word count: 2k pairing: raph & OC, raph & donnie title borrowed from light by sleeping at last part of the archer au

(prev) (next)

x

The closest Gio comes to fussing is when he thinks Splinter is going to put him down. His fist tightens in the front of Splinter’s robe and his eyes get shiny and his lower lip starts to pucker. Raph can tell a baby brother that’s about to cry from a mile away and similarly Donnie goes stock-still under Raph’s arm and makes an alarmed noise in his throat, like someone witnessing the improper handling procedures of a live explosive. 

But Splinter is only resituating his hold to sit them both on the sofa, where Gio is parked comfortably in his father’s lap, and no tears are shed. The baby’s or anybody else’s. 

“I trust you have been taking pictures,” Splinter says in a tone that suggests he will seriously consider disowning all of them if otherwise. 

“Father, am I a joke to you?” Donnie asks flatly. “SHELLDON has already texted all of you the link to a shared photo album which syncs automatically at the top of the hour.”

“SHELLDON is the only trustworthy person in this house,” Splinter tells Gio, ignoring Donnie’s offended squawking. “Your silly brothers haven’t even found you something warm to wear! And look at your little arms, you are practically just skin and bones! They haven’t fed you either, I take it? Pah. Clearly we must do everything ourselves around here.”

“Dad,” Mikey whines, “we were gonna do all of that! We just got home!” 

“Are you seriously holding a grudge because we missed your calls?” Leo asks incredulously. “You left me on read for two days once.”

“There are five of you and not one of you picked up the phone. Ridiculous.” 

Gio is staring up at Splinter’s face. Some of the words going back and forth over his head are clearly too big for him to follow, and he’s missing vital context to fill in all the gaps, but Splinter’s voice is still that one exclusive to very little turtles. His normal register, just lower and calmer, easily shifting from soothing to playful without much tonal change. And Gio is absorbing it like a reptile basking in the sun. Like he’s never heard anything like it before.

Raph wants to convince himself that there are plenty of reasons for Gio to never have been spoken to lovingly at this age. He can’t think of a single one, but there must be. 

April can’t stay for much longer, because she has a nine o’clock class in the morning that she can’t skip and she told her mom she’d be home for dinner. But she promises to return tomorrow with Gio-sized clothes come hell or high water. 

“Just as soon as I figure out how to tell my mom I need baby stuff without her jumping to the worst possible conclusion,” April says, sounding hunted. She crouches in front of the sofa and adds, “Can I get a big hug for the road from my favorite polka dot?”

“Regular cuddlebug,” Leo remarks quietly, observing as Gio readily loops his skinny arms around April’s neck. He even rubs their cheeks together, marveling at the softness of her skin against his textured scales. April looks seconds away from scooping him up and running out the door with him. 

“He hugs us all the time,” Raph replies, knowing as he says it that it’s not the same. 

It would surprise a stranger to get a glimpse of the Gio that lives behind that resting murder face and closed-off body language, but Raph knows firsthand how affectionate his big brother is. 

He lets little siblings stuff their hands in his coat pockets when it’s cold outside, and fall asleep on his shoulder halfway through a movie they insisted on watching, and crowd noisily into his personal space to claim his attention. And he does it as if it would never have occurred to him not to do it.

He’s never asked any of them for a hug, though. Now that he’s thinking about it, with a sinking feeling in his stomach, Raph can’t remember a single time that Gio asked anyone for anything at all. 

Raph wishes for about the millionth time in his life that he could peel back the screen behind Leo’s eyes and catch a preview of the puzzle his brain is rapidly assembling piece by inscrutable piece into some bigger picture. 

When April has finally wrestled with her cuteness aggression and won, giving Gio a final squeeze that would have been lung-crushing for a human person but only feels snug and affectionate to anyone with the built-in body armor of a turtle shell, she walks backwards towards the turnstiles blowing dramatic goodbye kisses to everyone else and Mikey steps up to bat.

“Time for the most crucial conversation of the day,” he says importantly. “Of our lives even,” he stresses, which Raph thinks might be pushing it. “What’s your favorite food in the whole world, Georgie?”

Gio is still waving goodbye to April with the hand holding the ladybug keychain, because the other is gripping tight to Splinter’s sleeve. It takes him a second to realize Mikey is talking to him, and a second after that for him to realize everyone is looking at him, anticipating his answer. He pulls both hands in tight to his middle again, even letting go of Splinter to do it, and doesn’t say anything at all. 

“Kind of a big question, Miguelito,” Leo swoops in before the gap in the conversation can grow any larger than it will take a little hop to cross. “You have ten different favorite foods for each day of the week.”

“Oh, that’s fair,” Mikey allows. “And Donald wouldn’t be able to list ten foods he liked if someone put a gun to his head.”

“I have a refined palate,” says their brother who once famously refused to eat anything other than butter pasta for two and a half weeks in a row when he was thirteen. “Clemmys guttata are omnivorous, and opportunistic feeders. They eat whatever they can find underwater. Not to say our George wouldn’t love peanut butter toast and Lucky Charms as much as the next preschooler, but something tells me Michael wants options with a little more pizzazz.” And even though he has gone on record more than once in recent memory to state in no uncertain terms that he would sooner walk backwards into hell than eat any dish involving shellfish, Donnie goes on, “Don’t we have shrimp in the fridge?”

Mikey brightens, struck with inspiration. “I can work with that!” 

He springs for the kitchen at full speed, hooking his arm through Leo’s on his way past and yanking his immediate older brother along with him—tribute selected for the mealtime assist. 

Raph can hear them bickering playfully from here, and if he looks he’ll see that Leo is already tying on his favorite apron, folding it over the way he must have learned from all those hours following Hueso around the back of house at Run of the Mill. And Mikey will untie his and retie it the way Leo does it, like clockwork. Neither of them will stop talking even once until dinner is made, their unending, overlapping chatter the closest Raph has ever come to understanding those ASMR videos April and Donnie send back and forth in the group chat.  

Similarly, Splinter’s ear twitches back toward the kitchen every so often, tuning in. And Donnie’s nervous energy is finally petering out. The battle shell disengages with a hiss of hydraulics, making Gio’s eyes get big and alarmed when it stands up on spiderlegs and walks in the direction of its charging dock in the lab. 

“I bet yours doesn’t do that, huh?” Raph teases. Gio shakes his head no rapidly, and Raph feels fondness pop in his chest like a firecracker. “Don’t worry, mine doesn’t either. Donnie’s one of a kind.”

“Thank you, Raph, but we can discuss my blanket superiority later,” Donnie says, earning a thwap on the knee from the tip of Splinter’s tail. With the heavy armor off his back, Donnie sits cross-legged on the floor in front of the sofa comfortably, bracing his hands on his knees. “You understand English, but papa’s Japanese didn’t seem to land. Do you know sign?” He lifts his hands to sign along with the question, slow and deliberate. 

“Dang, Raph didn’t even think of that,” Raph admits. 

Gio watches Donnie’s hands repeat the question once. Uncomprehending, but very interested in whatever he’s doing. 

“That’s okay,” Donnie says easily, and settles in to teach the way he once taught April. “Let’s start with the alphabet. This will be easy for you. I don’t make a habit of telling them this, lest it go to their heads, but all of my siblings share a fraction of my genius. Cut from the same cloth and all. We are a family of very smart cookies. And you,” Donnie tells him, “are a very, very smart cookie.”

“He’s a snickerdoodle!” the eavesdroppers in the kitchen bellow in tandem. 

“You’re a snickerdoodle,” Donnie says solemnly. Splinter snorts, but otherwise doesn’t interrupt. 

Raph worries for the first few minutes that the finger-spelling might be too advanced, and he doesn’t want Gio to get discouraged. How old are kids when they learn to spell, anyway? But Gio picks it up quickly, the shapes he makes with his fingers becoming less clumsy the longer Donnie walks him through his ABCs. Splinter always used to say he was surprised by how quickly the turtles tore through their learning material when they were little, and Gio is as much Draxum’s bizarre lab experiment as the rest of them are. Maybe that’s what Donnie meant in the first place. 

Donnie hums something as he finger-spells H-E-L-L-O G-I-O, a tune that pings in the back of Raph’s mind as familiar and makes Leo giggle from over in the kitchen. Donnie smiles without even glancing that way, because the two of them have an inside joke for every other word they say, and it’s always kind of a special prize to make clever Leo laugh without meaning to. 

“You’re alright but I’m here, darling, to enjoy the party,” Donnie shoulder-shimmies as he sings what Raph recognizes now as an electro-pop song that always features on Donnie’s heavy rotation playlist when it’s his turn to pick the music in the car. 

“Don’t get too excited ‘cause that’s all you get from me, hey!” Leo pitches in loud enough that his voice carries over. 

“Yeah, I think you’re cute, but really you should know,” Donnie continues, signing along to the words for his riveted audience, “I just came to say hello.”

Gio mirrors the ‘hello’ sign, a B handshape held to his forehead and then pushed away, and when Donnie makes a show of applauding this major accomplishment, he makes Gio giggle, too.

It’s the first sound he’s made since they met this version of him, and it makes all activity grind to an abrupt halt in the kitchen, Mikey freezing comically in the middle of a taste-test. Leo looks as stunned as Raph feels. Splinter catches his breath, and Donnie flaps his hands like he has to shake out the pure joy he’s experiencing in this instant or else explode with it. 

“I told you guys I was the funniest,” Donnie whispers. 

Gio giggles again, clearly a fan of Donatello. He’s hanging off Donnie’s every word, an expression on his face that Raph is utterly familiar with—a little turtle amazed by every single thing bigger turtles do. Gio glances over at Raph, still smiling, checking to see that Raph is smiling, too. 

Raph’s cheeks hurt with how hard he’s grinning, as a matter of fact. 

“How’s that song go again, Dee?” he says. 

“I’m so glad you asked,” Donnie replies, and pairs his phone to the Bluetooth speakers. 

When the music starts and Raph scoops Gio up into his arms, Gio shrieks with high-pitched, bubbly laughter, sweeter than any snickerdoodle cookie. Raph spins around, dancing them over to the kitchen, where Donnie has already dragged his twin into an absurd rendition of the waltz that Mikey is sandwiched in the middle of. Splinter parks himself on a stool at the island and watches over them with gooey eyes. 

The garlic bread in the oven ends up burning around the edges before anyone thinks to save it, but Mikey carves away the bitter ends and gives the best piece to Gio. The shrimp alfredo is a success—Donnie’s plain alfredo received with ridiculous gratitude—and Gio eats until he’s nodding off at the table. 

“We’ll skip bathtime tonight, I think,” Splinter murmurs, wiping Gio’s face and hands with a washcloth instead. 

“Can we have a sleepover in the living room?” Mikey begs. “Please please please? We’ll be so careful, and he’ll love the string lights!”

“Only if you do not keep him awake with your shenanigans,” Splinter says sternly. “And only if Gray wants to go.”

“What do you say, Georgie? Sleepover?” Mikey says, crouching by Splinter’s chair to be face-to-face with the little guy in question. “We can turtle pile, and Donnie can bring the star projector out! His intro to astronomy TED Talk will put you right to sleep.”

“Offended scoff,” Donnie interjects. “I’ll have you know that presentation is peer-reviewed.”

“Believe me, Tello, we do know,” Leo says in the voice of a younger brother who has heard this argument enough times to recite it word for word. 

Gio nods yes with his fist, one of the simple signs he’s learned this evening, but it’s Raph he puts his arms out to, and Raph whose shoulder he pillows his tiny head on with a quiet sleepy turtle sound that shoots like an arrow straight into Raph’s core. 

He has no idea what Gio’s life looked like at this age. He thinks maybe it wasn’t anything like Raph’s childhood—maybe it was actually not very good at all. Someone taught Gio not to speak up, to watch everything closely and keep his hands to himself. Kids are sensitive to the moods around them, but it’s odd how Gio monitors expressions and tones like he’s measuring them against something in his head. It’s strange how careful he is. 

Raph thinks of growing up with his brothers, getting into trouble and shouting matches and scuffles, making a mess of the kitchen and flooding the bathroom and breaking dishes and TV remotes out of clumsiness or carelessness. They would shuffle shamefacedly when they got scolded, and sometimes tear up and sometimes throw a tantrum, but they never, ever looked at Splinter with any fear.

Gio, Raph thinks, grew up a different way. Wherever he was. Whoever he was with. They didn’t love him right. 

Feeling a hundred things all at once, each of them more prickly and upsetting than the last, Raph tucks Gio into the blanket Leo tossed over them before settling down and feeling the weight of his little brothers settling on and around him. It soothes the ache in his heart, and when Gio makes one final, sleepy click, it’s echoed on all sides by unthinking clicks and chirps, and by the rumble that starts up in Raph’s chest and rolls over the rest of them.  

[lara-cairncross]

Sonic related question - What were your thoughts on the 3rd movie aka WAS I THE ONLY ONE LEFT IN EMOTIONAL SHAMBLES???

Also fanart possibly??? 🙏🙏🙏 I adore your art

can confirm that you are not, in fact, the only one left in emotional shambles. i don't think Shadow has left my mind for longer than ten minutes at a time since i first saw that movie a month ago bro

apologies in advance, this is gonna be a long read:

shadow did nothing wrong and i WILL excuse his every action at a level previously only witnessed in delusional dream apologists. i will defend him on my deathbed idgaf who cares if he killed people!!! he was having a bad day 🥺🥺🥺

no but actually. i have so many things to say about this. like, do we realize that before Gerald instigated the whole revenge plot, Shadow made no move to hurt or attack anyone that wasn't trying to hurt him first??? when he first woke up, he only attacked the GUN soldiers that were actively pointing weapons at him, but left the two guys up in the command station alone. when he was in Tokyo, he was surrounded by people and lights and cars and was probably really disoriented, but didnt attack ANYTHING until GUN showed up with tanks and guns pointed at him-- and even then he tried to tell them to just leave him alone before the fight started. when Team Sonic first showed up, he again literally just told them to LEAVE HIM ALONE even though they came from GUN, and only fought back after Knuckles attacked him first. even after his escape, all he did was try to return to his home!!! HE DIDNT WANT TO HURT ANYONE UNTIL THEY CAME FOR HIM FIRST!!! HES A GOOD BOY IDC WHAT ANYONE TELLS ME !!!!

and even with the revenge plot-- like, of COURSE Shadow was gonna do what Gerald said??? obviously he had a choice in the matter, but Gerald was also his one remaining link to both Maria and his past home, and he probably spent his whole life in the laboratory doing whatever Gerald told him to do. like, that's a fifteen year old who's sister just died, and the one person who's passed as a father figure/authority figure to him for his entire life is telling him to get revenge on the people who killed her. no SHIT he was gonna do what Gerald told him to. ik its speculation on my part but you cant convince me he wasn't conditioned into following orders in that lab like im sorry

EVEN WITH ALMOST KILLING TOM-- like ofc Sonic was rightfully mad, and I do think shadow needed to get sucker-punched to the moon for that one lmao i love Tom too much to see him go. but also, Shadow wasn't really attacking Tom-- he was attacking Walters. Like, the guy who let his sister die and then locked him away for 50 years. i feel like that's a slightly understandable reason to want somebody dead lmao

in short i wasnt lying when i said i would defend everything Shadow does AHSHDHAHDH. the one thing i am NOT happy about is Shadow leaving Stone behind when the crab got swept away, but he probably figured they'd all be dead in 24 hours, so like. efficiency? idk idk Stone will probably forgive him after he adopts him soooooooooooooo

okay enough of that. knuckles is my second favorite character in the movies behind shadow. hes so fucking funny but surprisingly emotionally mature and i love him SO MUCH. that scene where he's on the brink of fighting with sonic over the master emerald but calms himself down to prevent in-fighting??? saving sonic and tails' asses at the end??? thats my BOY my SON he did SO GOOD AUGHHHHHH im a sucker for older siblings acting like shields (Rise Raph, Vi from Arcane, etc) and Knuckles is just the latest addition to my collection of Eldest Daughter Syndromes

adding onto that kinda, i really liked how they used tails and knuckles in this movie :DD i was scared they'd kinda get shoved aside but NO!!! they both had great moments!!!! GOOD STORYTELLING HOLY SHIT I FORGOT HOLLYWOOD COULD DO THAT

ALSO the human characters continue to surprise me with how much i care about them lol, i wasnt as big on it in the second movie but i think thats cuz tom and maddie were separated from sonic most of the time that the focus was on them?? but in this movie, whenever tom and maddie were on screen they were usually WITH the boys or talking to them somehow, so i think i liked it better that way!!! they're both such good parents!!!! AND DONT GET ME STARTED ON STONE AND ROBOTNIK. GOD DAMN IT.

we need more Ozzie content overall. where is the good boy. i barely saw him

the shadow and maria moments were so well done and hit a lot of emotional beats for being such a short chunk of the film??? like they didn't have a ton of screentime together, but what they did have was PACKED. im an older sibling to a little brother and sibling relationships in media hit me so hard bro. i actually saw it with him in theaters the first two times i went and i was tearing up at maria and shadow's scenes together every time :(((( ark siblings you are so important to me !!! I NEED TO DRAW THEM

tbh i would've liked less of the Robotniks' shenanigans and a bit more of Shadow's backstory? i really enjoyed a lot of the Ivo and Gerald scenes, but it was starting to get a little old for me by the end, especially with some of the cutaways from the MAIN CHARACTERS. idk i just would've liked more shadow in the movie,,,, about shadow,,,,,, but also im biased so maybe its actually fine LMAO

That being said. i fucking LOVED ivo in this movie!!! PEAK EGGMAN BEHAVIOR OMG OMG OMG AND HIM SACRIFICING HIMSELF AT THE END??? AND THE FUCKING. DOOMED YAOI. STOBOTNIK YOU ARE SO IMPORTANT TO ME I NEED TO DRAW THEM SO BADLY I CANT WAIT ANYMORE IVE SEEN TOO MANY TIKTOK EDITS THAT REBOOTED MY BRAIN CHEMISTRY

having Live and Learn being a reoccurring motif was a galaxy brain creative decision and i applaud whoever did it

I LOVED the coloring they did for Super Shadow-- like, the rosey gold/platinum color??? PHENOMENALLLLLL IT WORKS SO WELL ON HIM!!!! I don't like Sonic's bright fucking yellow gold coloring as much, but I also dont think the model was as bad as everyone seems to think it was???? i dont know enough about it tho lol, in my eyes they both worked really well for the Super scenes :DDD

the moon scene . need i say more

also can we talk about how Shadow is like. blatantly suicidal. can we talk about that. does anybody want to share some thoughts about that. and maybe scream into a pillow. and have a crying session together. like i know *I* was suicidal at 15 but Shadow doesn't deserve that come on now

Sonic was great as always but -50 aura points for the second-hand embarrassment I felt every time "Konichi-WHAAAAAAAA" came up on screen oh my god i had to hide my face behind my fucking popcorn bag whenever that scene happened i couldnt handle it. my brother keeps saying it at random points during the day now because he knows it pisses me off. and its sonic's fault. ik hes supposed to be a cringe teenager but i do want to dropkick him occasionally /affectionate

tails is baby. tails is baby boy. i liked it when he flushed the crab. baby boy. did nothing wrong.

everytime i see a screenshot of shadow and his stupid wet-cat-kicked-puppy face i want to SCREAM. HOW DID THEY MAKE HIM SO CUTE. LIKE HIS MODEL IS GENUINELY PERFECT I CANT THINK OF ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEY COULD'VE MADE HE LOOKS COOL BUT CUTE BUT SAD BUT ANGRY ALL AT THE SAME TIME!!!!!! HES MY BABY AND I LOVE HIM SO MUCH I HOPE HE SHOWS UP IN THE FOURTH MOVIE I HOPE SOMEBODY (coughs stone coughs) ADOPTS HIM AND GIVES HIM A HOME I JUST WANT HIM TO BE HAPPY BRO

where the fuck did the chaos emeralds go. im kinda hoping shadow fell to earth with them, cuz that could lead to a possible plot with knuckles (or the whole team) having to recover them and running into him again :D

definitely my favorite sonic movie out of the current trilogy!!! it definitely wasn't perfect tho, and i dont think it's the masterpiece everyone makes it out to be-- like, there were definitely some issues I had with the writing at various points, and sometimes the pacing felt off? I do think it should've been like, at least 10-20 minutes longer, especially with the cut scenes that have been released. Stone pulling Ivo out of the wreckage SHOULD have stayed in!!! I dunno why they removed it!!! that being said, i LOVED IT and it's the movie that's gotten me obsessed with the Sonic franchise, so in my mind it's now one of my favs :DDD PLUS I SAW IT WITH MY LITTLE BROTHER AND HE LOVED IT AND WE HAD SO MUCH FUN SO NOW ITS JUST A GIANT HAPPY FEELING IN MY BRAIN WHENEVER I THINK ABOUT IT RAHHHHHH

anyway. Gabriella should kill them both

fanart wise-- dude im cooking up so much i promise. tbh the biggest issue is that i have so many ideas and so many WIPS that im just pingponging between them all and not actually finishing anything LMAO

[theyhavetakenovermylife]

Anger: part 1 (18+)

2007!Raphael x reader (past 2007!Leonardo x reader)

Part 2 Part 3 Leonardo's Ending Raphael’s Ending

-------------------------

A/N: I recently rewatched the 2007 TMNT for the first time in a loooooong time, and this idea came to me straight away. So now I grace you with more smut. Is it the heaviest on the internet? Noooo. Is it the heaviest I’ve written? Hell yeah. Enjoy!❤️

Warnings: sex, sexual acts, angry revenge sex?

---------------------------

Raphael was angry, and it was all Leonardo’s fault. Ever since Leo left for his training in South America, Raphael had been angry. Raphael had several reasons for being mad at Leonardo, and he had every intention of holding that grudge. Because as far as Raphael knew, Leonardo would never come back.

Raphael’s frustration towards Leonardo started long before Master Splinter ever mentioned anything about South America. Raphael had always had a little of a grudge when it came to his big brother, but it was the day Leonardo landed you that Raphael wanted to punch him for the first time. You were so beautiful. Everything Raph had ever dreamed of, yet Leo was the one that got you first. Leo was the one that got to hold you, kiss you and touch you. And Raph hated it. He hated watching you kiss Leo or hearing Leo talk about you, because he could only dream about you.

Then Master Splinter mentioned South America and Leonardo started thinking about it. You didn’t like it. You told Leo you didn’t like it. He would be gone for so long, and you feared that. You didn’t wish to be alone for that long. Yet you didn’t stop Leo when he decided to go. Raphael was outside Leonardo’s room, listening as Leo promised he would come back to you. He had kissed you, told you he loved you, and then left.

Even without Leonardo there you would still come to the lair. You would spend time with Raphael, Michelangelo and Donatello, but your main destination would always be Leonardo’s room. It would usually be in there that you wrote your letters to him, telling him how much you missed him. Leonardo would write back to you. He would tell you about his adventures in South America and compare the nature to your beauty. Raphael almost wanted to throw up when he heard you read it out loud for Donnie and Mikey.

But as time went on the letters from Leonardo became less and less. Not just for you but the rest of the family. You started to get nervous and Raphael could feel it. When you counted down the days until you could see Leonardo again, Raph saw it in your eyes. You feared what was going on. You became insecure in Leo’s apsense, and that only added on to Raph’s anger.

But when Leonardo’s training in South America ended, you were heartbroken when he didn’t come. And then came the letter. Raph could clearly remember the sound as you started crying in Leo’s room, reading the last letter he sent you. Leonardo wasn’t coming home. He had decided it. They needed him in South America. They needed the Ghost of the Jungle.

Raphael was mad. He was mad that his brother would leave him and his family like that. And he was mad that he would leave you. The most beautiful girl he had ever seen. First Leonardo took you and then he left you.

Soon your sadness started to grow along with anger. Raphael caught you in Leo’s room sitting silently on his bed, before punching hard into the pillow.

One day Raphael saw you in Leo’s room once again, anger boiling in his blood at the sight. Was he angry at you for still being sad over Leo, or was it still the anger from Leo’s decision to stay in South America? Raph wasn’t sure, but he knew that was what pulled him into Leonardo’s room. Raph closed the door behind him and took a seat next to you on Leo’s bed, you not meeting his eyes. It took some time, but finally the two of you started talking. And then you said the magic words. You were angry at Leonardo. You were mad. And then you kissed. Right on Leonardo’s bed.

That night Raphael took you hard on Leonardo’s bed. He wanted to ruin Leonardo’s room and every single memory you and him had in there, making him the only person you could think of whenever you walked in there. As he pounded into you relentlessly, he grabbed your face and turned it towards him. He asked you who made you feel so good. He would never forget the fucked out look on your face as you moaned out loud; “you, Raph!” In that moment he felt like he lived a dream.

But that dream didn’t last long. Everyday Raphael was reminded of Leonardo’s appsense, and everyday he felt that anger build up in him. Not even his self appointed role as the Nightwatcher could make the anger go away. It only kept building and building, until one day he had enough and he came to your apartment, still wearing his Nightwatcher attire. He stayed the whole night, fucking you on every surfuse possible. Every place he could think in every position possible. He kept going until he was sure he had fucked you in every place Leo had. On the couch in your living room, your coffee table, your kitchen counter, your bed, the bathroom, even on the floor in your hallway.

It didn’t even take a week before you asked him to come over again. And as he pounded you into your mattress, he could help but feel a little satisfied. You were begging him to keep going as your eyes rolled back. Raphael placed your leg over his shoulder making him go deeper, causing you to cry out in ecstasy. And as your third orgasm of the night rolled over you, Raphael started thinking. There was no way Leo ever fucked you as good as he was going right now. Leo would never be this rough with you. But there you were, drooling from your mouth and cuming around Raph once more.

After Raph had helped you roll out your high, he placed a long passionate kiss on your lips, before thrusting into you once more. And the sounds that came from you only verified Raphael in his suspicions. Only he had fucked you this good. Leo never did. Leonardo had never known how to love a person as perfect as you, but he did. And Raph was going to show you over and over again how good he was at loving you, even if he was angry.

[faith-forgxtten-land]

Blush | Leonardo

this isn't me being modest or fishing for compliments, but i found writing this surprisingly difficult to write for some reason? and i'm not exactly ecstatic with how it ended up, but i've spent a while trying to edit and improve it (and of course tumblr decided to not save my edits, TWICE) and i honestly think this is as good as it's going to get because the more i edit and worry over it, the more difficult it becomes! with that said, i do hope you enjoy it!!

2007 universe!!

warnings: making out? there's not much honestly, leo being a little unhinged and possessive? she/her pronouns used once or twice, everyone is 18+!!

summary: leo likes it a little too much when you blush

word count: 1930 (honestly surprised by the length)

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

The first time you meet the turtles, you feel faint even after all the preparation you've done with April. She'd told you all about them, yet she hadn't mentioned how intimidating and handsome they were, and you stumble over your introductions, stuttering and blushing, feeling small and unimpressive, like you're back to being a schoolgirl with an unattainable crush.

You have to repeat your name, your shy mumbles too quiet even for their mutant hearing, and you flush as Leonardo smiles patiently at you and ignores Raphael’s eyeroll. Donatello is kind and tells you to not to take his brother’s grumpiness to heart, and Michelangelo talks so much that you don’t have to for the rest of the evening.

From then on, Leo makes an effort to be kind to you; he's always patiently listening to you even as you trip over words, especially on the days where you can barely glance in his direction without blushing, leaning close and bestowing you with an intense attention you're not sure you'll ever get used to. 

And maybe sometimes Leo plays up how soft-spoken you are. You are quiet, and you do have a tendency to mumble your words, yes, but he’s not deaf and he really doesn’t need to invade your personal space as often as he does. It’s just so cute the way you fluster without fail every time he leans in, his breath fanning against your face as he asks you to repeat yourself. 

His brothers and your aunt aren’t as oblivious as you; Donnie shoots him pointed looks that he pointedly ignores, Raph’s eyes are permanently rolling, and by now Mikey, who had initially been supportive, has begun to find it sickening, miming puking in the background each time Leo so much as looks in your direction. Even Splinter has joined in, completely unsubtle in his offhand mentioning of grandchildren whenever he sees the both of you, whether you’re alone or together. And April... well, she had cornered him in the dojo and promised that he'd be running back to the rainforest she found him in if he ever did you wrong. 

He had no intention of ever hurting you, or letting anyone else hurt you, for that matter. You’re just so endearing; so precious and shy, a snowflake that has yet to feel heat, and he so desperately wants to be the only one to light that fire within you and watch you melt.

Perhaps it's a little obsessive, but everything you do, usually unknowingly, draws him in like a moth to a flame. And it’s a little mean, maybe, the way he delights as you fluster and flush with only the tiniest hints of encouragement from him, but it sends a thrill through him each time. You’re so shy, so innocent and trusting, it’s impossible for him not to take advantage of that (even if April’s threats ring in his ears whenever he does).

So he invites you over, a movie night with just the two of you because of course Mikey is busy doing something silly and senseless that you won't be interested in, and you know Donnie's always busy doing something painfully nerdy that's way too boring to be fun, and Raph is busy doing something boneheaded with Casey that's far too dangerous.

It's just you and Leo.

You're both quiet for the most part, but keenly aware of each other's presence. It would be impossible for him to miss the way you practically stop breathing whenever his leg brushes oh-so lightly against yours, and he knows you're not paying much attention to the movie because he isn't either, and you're not exactly subtle with the way your eyes keep flicking away from the screen to sneak a peek when you think he isn't looking. 

The eleventh time you do this, he decides enough is enough, and lets his eyes catch yours.

He keeps eye contact for a little too long to be casual, heart racing at the way your eyes dart away awkwardly but seemingly can’t resist finding his again no matter how embarrassed you feel. God, you’re so cute, he wants to squish your cheeks and eat you alive. He must not be doing a very good job at hiding that desire because Donnie shoots him a warning look as he passes by to grab something from the kitchen, and Leo elects to ignore it, sticking his foot out suddenly and smiling innocently as his brother stumbles and glowers but continues his walk without comment.

He slides his arm casually over the back of the couch when he’s certain you’re alone again, unable to cover his smirk as you stiffen and your breath hitches. He’s not even touching you and he wants to laugh at how innocent you are; he feels like a wolf waiting to pounce on a lamb and it really shouldn’t excite him this much. The thought makes him shuffle just a little closer, disguising his movements as a casual adjustment in his seating. He flashes you a kind smile. “You okay?”

Your smile in return is tight and nervous, and you can’t bring yourself to make eye contact this time. You nod quickly, not trusting yourself to speak without humiliating yourself further. That, of course, is ruined as Leo drops his hand to the bare skin of your shoulder from where your shirt has slipped, rubbing your warm skin gently. You jump, a squeak slipping past your lips, and you feel your face grow even hotter.

Leo looks at you with feigned concern, lips rolled together to hide his grin, pushing an earnest façade to conceal his amusement. Your skin is so soft, he thinks, brushing his fingers over it again. “You sure?”

You swallow thickly as his palm flattens and trails towards your neck. “Y-yes.”

He’s even closer now, muscled thigh pressed against yours as he peers at you. “You’re looking a little flushed…”

You look up and meet his unfaltering stare; his eyes are dark, pupils eclipsing warm brown irises, and you feel like they’re swallowing you whole the longer you get lost in his gaze. His hand slides up and you shudder as he cups your jaw gently. There’s only an inch or so between your faces now, and you’re not sure when you got so close, but it’s hard to focus on anything other than the rush of blood in your ears as your heart beats erratically. “Leo,” you whisper uncertainly, and his eyes darken before he presses his lips to yours.

You’re still for a moment, frozen as butterflies flutter so violently in your stomach you think you might vomit – which would be the most mortifying thing to ever happen to you (and you’ve had a lot of mortifying things happen to you) and you might have to take a leaf out of Leo’s book and head to Central America and cut all contact with everyone you know.

You're not really sure what you're doing, and your actions feel delayed, like you're moving in slow motion or you're underwater and your movements are sluggish despite your best efforts, but you must be doing something right because he groans quietly against your mouth and the sound makes your abdomen clench. He pulls back and your lips are tingling as he catches his breath. 

He looks the way you feel; a mess, flushed with his chest heaving, and you feel a little smug even as you blush further when he smirks at you. He doesn’t say anything, just keeps smirking at you because he’s insufferable like that, and you realise he’s waiting for you to meet his eyes. 

It's a Herculean effort, but you manage to return his heated stare. 

“I want it all.” Leo is gazing into your eyes in complete seriousness and, as much as you want to look away and bury your face into your hands, something keeps you transfixed.

"All?" It's a miracle that you find your voice, even if it's the weakest it's ever sounded, wheezing and as soft as the skin under his calloused palms.

Leo's eyes somehow darken further. "This isn't just a game to me, or a one-time thing. I want everything with you."

You swallow the reticence that threatens to burst from your throat and lick your lips, the taste of his own a heavy weight against yours. His eyes follow the movement, the intensity of his stare making you feel dizzy. “I’ve never done this before,” you admit, heat crawling up your neck. “I’ve never even been in a relationship before."

Leo smiles at you, a knowing curve of his lips, crooked and tender with a hint of mirth, eyes dancing across every inch of your face with your admission as if he can’t decide which spot deserves his attention more. “I want to be your first and last,” he says honestly, voice a little uneven as if he hasn’t yet caught his breath after your kiss.

He’s nervous, you realise, cheeks darker than usual and inflicted with the same timidity that's nestled in your chest – not that he’ll admit to it. His eyes keep flitting about, not in a loving caress, but in a nervy flutter. You make him nervous. You can’t stop the giggle that leaves your lips and, almost instantly, Leo’s nervousness melts away as he raises a non-existent brow. “Something funny?”

Your face is flushed, and you can feel that shyness threatening to rear its head, but you push through and beam a little bashfully at him. “I want that too. I want it all. With you."

Leo blinks slowly and leans in close again. It takes everything within you not to pull away; your face is scorching, and you wonder if it’s actually possible to burn your skin from blushing so fiercely. “Can I kiss you?” His voice is lower than normal, soft and rough at once, deep and dark like it’s filtered through gravel and dripped in honey at the same time, and you kind of want to faint.

“Haven't you already?” you mumble, eyes dropping from his as another wave of heat rushes to your face, resolutely staring just beyond the turtle that’s practically on top of you.

Leo laughs softly, hand on your jaw once more and directing your embarrassed gaze to him. He’s smiling wide and then he’s kissing you again.

It’s still sloppy and tentative, you’re still entirely unsure of what you’re doing and it’s almost embarrassing enough to make you retreat, but then his tongue, long and thick, traces the seal of your lips in question and your brain shuts-down. Hesitantly, you answer, your own tongue shy as it brushes against his and easily forfeits the short fight for dominance, letting him lick your mouth with practiced ease. Any remnants of anxiety over your own inexperience dissipate with every flick of his skilled tongue, and you melt into his embrace.

“Oh my god, Leo’s eating her face.”

Leo pulls back and you squawk, mortified and covering your face as embers of confidence sputter, fleeing from you while Mikey dramatically projectile vomits his nunchucks across the room where they hit the wall with a thud. Your face is on fire, and you die a little on the inside as you realise that the glistening around Leo's mouth is mostly your spit. 

You die a little more and make a mental note to book a flight to Costa Rica when Splinter arrives to investigate the commotion, his son still pressed against you on the couch, and simply murmurs about grandchildren before winking at you.

[qoldenskies]

i have like. such mixed feelings on the medic leo headcanon, coming from someone that has used it in pretty much all of his work so far. me and the medic leo headcanon are in an off-and-on relationship and every time i think we're done for good its outside my door with a boombox in the pouring rain and i feel like i hate myself a little when i take it back. it fucks like a champ though which makes it KIND OF worth it

cause like. i really think its an implementation thing that frustrates me more than anything else. to give leo a special THING feels like it disregards such a core facet of his character, that being that he doesn't have one and he feels like the others do. "face man" feels like overcompensating. initially, "leader" feels like too much, and it feels like something he TOOK from raph. there's really an implication that he feels like his brothers are SOMETHING without him, but he's NOTHING without them, and he directly states the second part. (so he overcompensates and acts like they do need him)

i think to make this an early-in-his-life practice kind of throws that out the window. leo taking this up when he's young doesnt fit him, i dont think, especially because i see him as a very.... high wisdom low intelligence kind of character. good street smarts terrible book smarts, and that's kind of apparent by him being so clever and intuitive while also taking stupid dares and making actively reckless decisions to look cool lmao. he would swallow a whole bottle of shampoo because mikey told him to and then be confused why he's in the medbay and raph is yelling at him like ten minutes later

HOWEVER. i think it is a very good way to explore some of the nuances of him that actually MAKE him a good leader, once he steps into that role. leo is a people person. he knows his family, he pays attention to them, he knows how to manipulate them and it would make him a diligent eye in the field. things dont get past him and it makes it hard to hide when theyre in pain from him. he's the most likely to be like "cool, i dont give a fuck" when they try to dismiss injuries. he'll happily make it an argument if he has to; he'd be as stubborn as a mule when it comes to their well-being, and he's more calculative than he looks, which means raph and donnie's usual tactics of dismissal and deflection hit a wall when he puts his foot down on something.

so really i just go out of my way to not make it something EXCLUSIVE to him when its included (and i always go out of my way to make it recent, because why would they have a designated medic who they already know to go to when the concept of crime-fighting was NEVER something they thought would really happen?). it makes the most sense to be something that STARTED with donnie, considering he refers to resuscitating piebald as "my science"; medicine is included in the field of what he enjoys and invests in. donnie is a jack of all trades in anything he can get his grubby little hands on, but ive always seen him as squeamish, which gives a good reason for leo to get involved.

but i think leo would always underestimate his capability despite lots of hands-on experience, even though hands-on is literally how he learns instead of reading books and studying like donnie does. no matter how diligent and practiced he is in the field, he's still not exclusive in it, and it doesnt feel like something that IS a big thing to him. so he can do a few stitches, big deal. donnie and splinter can already do that! who cares? raph and mikey probably could too if they actually paid attention to any of donnie's yap-sessions. no matter how much he boasts about how much they need their cool brother to patch them up, he doesn't believe it, even as he gets better and better and better.

it also gives him the opportunity to really come to face how meaningful it actually is, and to be appreciated for that, especially if donnie is out of commission and he actually gets to utilize that strength. doomed timeline angst potential right there.

[shantechni]

I noticed this a looooong time ago, but I didn't mention it and sort of kept pushing it aside as an unimportant detail. After coming across this for, like, the fifth time though, something finally strikes me as supremely odd, and it's these two simple lines Leo says in the first episode of S2.

Between the S1 finale and the S2 premiere, Splinter told his sons that he defeated the Shredder when they faced off in the hideout. Not only that, he told them they'd never see the man again because he lost his honor, but both of these statements are immediately proven to be contradictory to what actually took place, as well as to what Splinter believes about the Shredder's way of thinking.

Anyone who has watched the S1 finale, specifically the second part, knows that the fight was brought to a screeching halt when Karai ran in to stop Splinter from finishing off the Shredder. And, after seeing just how deeply influenced Karai has been to hate him, Splinter left in a hurry to avoid fighting who he now knows is his thought-to-be-dead daughter.

Now, it makes sense that Splinter didn't tell the boys Karai interrupted the fight considering she was a touchy subject, one he didn't approach all of his sons with until midway through S2 in The Manhattan Project. He was still coming to terms with the revelation himself, and his avoidance of everyone's questions tells us that he genuinely didn't want to explain why Karai believed he killed her mom. In the process, he'd have to get into the reason Shredder led Karai to believe that lie and yadda yadda.

So, not telling them Karai was there makes sense. But why tell them the Shredder was defeated?

Something like that would be believable if he didn't imply any finality by telling them the Shredder was taken down, because he goes on to wonder outloud if their enemies were truly defeated and even reaffirms that, "The Shredder is a crafty and patient foe who bides his time." But Leo clearly says that Splinter told them they'd never see him again after he apparently lost whatever honor he had left. And we can't point fingers at any potential dialogue or writing error because they make sure the audience hears that Splinter did indeed facilitate this calm behavior of theirs.

One can wonder if he didn't truly intend to flat out lie, but rather to placate his sons by withholding a harsh truth and giving everyone the time they need to revel in their victory. However, that's another odd decision for Splinter to make since he's usually the one to remind his sons that none of their enemies will stay gone for long, the first and most notable instance of this being when they first encountered Bradford and Xever.

Anyways, after Leo says what he says, Splinter takes offense to Raph casually adding that they'll take care of the Shredder if he does come back, and, upon realizing that his prior statement has heavily blanketed them with a false sense of security, he harshly tells his sons the month long celebrating is over.

Honestly, even though I said sugar coating is very out of character for someone like Splinter, it's the only sensible answer for him lying to the guys. And probably himself for a minute there, too.

He knows the Shredder isn't honorable. He's traitorous, underhanded, and full of spite for those he feels wronged him. Oroku Saki is a vengeful man who has been undeniably wronged in his past, but refuses to learn from it and will shift the blame onto those undeserving. He's tenacious in the way he literally left Japan with a singular image of a Hamato clan shuriken as proof that he has another chance to kill someone he used to call his brother.

Splinter knows all of this, but he still went ahead and made the morally dubious decision to construct a perfect, short-lived world where he could tell his sons they wouldn't have to worry about the Shredder again.

And where he doesn't have to face the gravity of the changes yet to come.

[httpvomitello]

Through the Cracks *⁠.⁠✧

The lair was quiet, save for the soft hum of a fan in Donnie’s lab. Leo sat on the couch, his katanas set aside, he was stealing glances at you, seated across from him, the game match was already forgotten.

The mask was familiar—porcelain-white, cracked and painted with hollow eyes and a stitched mouth. It wasn’t just a piece of armor; it was a wall. A barrier. And Leo knew exactly why you wore it.

You had told him once, late at night when the city seemed too quiet and the weight of your secrets became too heavy to bear. The shot. The pain. The way the mirror had turned into your worst enemy. The mask had become your refuge.

Leo had never forgotten that night.

“You don’t have to keep it on around me, you know,” he said softly, breaking the silence.

You looked up, meeting his eyes briefly before glancing at the mask. “It’s easier this way,” you murmured. “Don’t have to see people’s reactions.”

Leo’s chest tightened. “You think I’d care? That it would change anything?”

You leaned forward, resting your elbows on your knees. “Not you, Leo. But it’s not about that. It’s about what I see. What I feel when it’s off.”

He understood. More than he wished he did.

“I get it,” Leo said, his voice barely above a whisper.

You looked at him, surprised. “You do?”

Slowly, he reached up, fingers brushing the edge of his mask. It wasn’t like yours—just a simple blue bandana. But beneath it, there was a scar. A deep, jagged line running from his temple down to his jaw. A constant reminder of the night everything changed.

He got this scar when he had to fight Raph in his Kraang state. No one knew about this scar, he preferred to keep it that way.

You watched as he hesitated, then pulled it off, revealing the disfigurement. He held your gaze, his eyes filled with something you rarely saw in yourself: vulnerability.

The sarcastic leader who seems to show no remorse or care about things was vulnerable.

“I know what it’s like to see something you don’t want to,” Leo said quietly. “To feel like you have to hide it. But you don’t have to hide from me.”

Your fingers tightened around the edge of your mask. For a moment, you said nothing, the weight of his words sinking in. Then, slowly, you reached up and removed it.

Leo’s breath caught, but not for the reason you feared.

“You’re still you,” he said, his voice steady, warm. “The same person who makes sarcastic jokes, who listens when I need to vent, who stands by us no matter what.”

You looked away, a flicker of doubt crossing your face. “It’s not that simple.”

Leo leaned forward, his tone gentle but firm. “It is to me.”

Silence settled between you, but it wasn’t heavy. It was filled with understanding, with unspoken truths that didn’t need to be said aloud.

“Thanks,” you said finally, your voice soft. “For…not looking away.”

Leo smiled, slipping his mask back on. “I never will. Besides, you already look hot with a mask on, but without one? It makes me fall in love with you.”

And for the first time in a long time, you gave a sincere laugh, the cracks in your armor didn’t feel so heavy.

[taffycandyqt]

Can you do a Donnie x cat mutant reader x Leo where the reader has feelings for Donnie but they are not reciprocal since he likes April and because of that she starts to feel insecure about her appearance and starts to think that no one would want them, However, Leo has always liked her and comforts her about it and confesses his feelings to the reader. (I went through something similar recently and I wanted something to vent my feelings on...)

I hope this makes you feel better! This sounds like a really emotionally confusing situation to be in

Additionally this feels more like a Leo x reader to me, maybe that just because of the direction I chose to take it but I hope you're okay with that! (> - <)

Unexpected Turns

After having your feelings rejected by Donnie, your long time crush, you began slipping back into some bad thoughts and habits. Leo has been nothing but supportive and having him there begins to make you feel a better little by little. That was until an untimely confession is made.

Warnings: Not sad not happy.

Rise Leo x reader

Angst, fluffish? Cat mutant but can be interpreted as any fluffy animal.

Masterlist

Request Rules

"Are you okay?" Donnie asked you. He didn't want to hurt you but he wasn't going to lie to you either.

"Yeah. Yeah I'm fine," you told him.

"Are you sure? Your tone of voice and body language are more in line with behaviors exhib-"

"I'mFINE!" You say frantically. You didn't mean to raise your voice. You just couldn't stop yourself.

Donnie recoiled slightly in shock.

"Sorry... I just need to be alone right now," and with that you took your leave.

It feels like it happened forever ago, and yet it still hurt like a fresh wound.

You hadn't dropped by the lair very much since then. And you always double check that Donnie wasn't there before you headed over. He probably didn't want to see you anyways so it's really for the best. The others have reached out to you but you haven't really been in the mood. Mikey wants you to talk it out and Raph keeps offering you hugs. Heck even Splinters tried to help. But Leo texted you the most. Every morning and every night, telling you he cares and that he's always here and to sleep well. Checking in periodically to remind you to eat and take care of yourself. Honestly, he's probably the only reason you have any sort of routine right now.

It's not like you couldn't get out of bed and do stuff. Your heart was just heavy and no matter how much you slept you were always tired. You cried every time you thought about it but it never made you feel any better. Your chest felt dry and hollow. It stug like it's been starved of any sort of moisture and every breath you take just dries it out more.

Looking at yourself in the mirror doesn't exactly help either. You and Donnie got along really well so you could help but get down about your looks. You used to be confident you were at least a little pretty when you were human but after your mutation? Let's just say it's been a really difficult journey of self confidence for you. Now you just actively avoid mirrors when you can. It's better it if you try not to think about it. Except that never really works because, try as you might, you're always thinking about it. You sit down and the rolls of your tummy form. You wiggle your arms and that little flap of flesh swings. You smell funky all the time now and all the fur, it makes you feel gross. All these and more combine in any reflective surface to make you feel nothing but inadequate.

But then Leo texts you, asking if you ate. Most of the time you tell him you have. Most of the time you haven't. But today you didn't have the strength to lie. You hadn't had energy to do much of anything lately. Your friends from school were starting to worry too.

That text was all the invitation Leo needed to welcome himself into your house apparently.

As he stepped out of his portal into your apartments living room he looked for you.

"Y/nnnnnnn! I brought pizza!" He called playfully as he wandered around your home opening different doors just to make sure he doesn't miss you.

"It's your favoriteeeee," he sang as he peaked his head into your room scanning the space.

And there you were. Laying in a dejected pile of sheets. Tangled in your bed looking like you lost your soul. He frowned and let himself in. He hated seeing you like this. But he also hated that there was no one to blame. Sure he could blame Donnie, but it's not like Dee did anything wrong per say. Eventually, he was standing over you looking down at you.

"Hey," he spoke softly through a gentle smile.

"Hey," you whispered back.

"Let's sit up yeah?" He quietly suggested.

"Yeah. Okay," you agreed. You sluggishly peel your body off the surface of your mattress. Leo put his free hand out for you in case you needed the help. You didn't but the gesture was appreciated nonetheless.

"Here take this," he handed you the box and you set it on your lap. The hot underside would have burned your legs if it weren't for your sweatpants. You opened the box to reveal that he, in fact, did get your favorite.

Leo began straightening out your sheets and folded them back neatly to make room for himself to sit.

"So," he started while taking a slice out of the box in your lap, "wanna talk about it?"

"Not really," you answered, taking your own slice.

You ate in silence for a few minutes. You hated that the food made you feel better. It was good, yes, but you didn't need to look worse. You wondered if Leo knew anything. Any reason why Donnie rejected you.

You wondered what Leo thought of you.

Out of everyone, he displayed the most care towards you. He went above and beyond to help you, even before this. Did he feel bad for you because of how you looked? Was it pity?

Before you could push those ridiculous thoughts out of your head, a muttered question fell past your lips.

"Am I really that ugly?"

"What?" Leo jerked his head to you from where he was enjoying his pizza.

"Nothing! SorryforgetIsaidanything!"

"Nononono! You don't just get to back out. Say it again," Leo was getting up in your face at this, but he wasn't sporting his laid back smile anymore. You knew he wasn't gonna let this one slide so you repeated yourself. Albeit, reluctantly.

"I just wonder... sometimes... if I'm really that, um... ugly. Ya know," you said, avoiding eye contact.

"Who told you you were ever ugly?" Leo responded visibly confused and slightly offended. Suddenly he gave a large gasp.

"Was it DONNIE!? Because if it was Donnie I can and will fight him for you. Ohohoh no! Even better! I'll tell dad on him! You just say the word and I'll-"

"LEO!"

"Sorry."

You sighed, "It wasn't Donnie. I just wonder if, this," you gesture to yourself, "was part of the reason is all. I'm not exactly... how I used to be. So it wouldn't surprise me."

"Well that just flipping ridiculous, your gorgeous! You were then and you sure are now! Not to mention you have amazing fashion sense, your super funny, and your just like, crazily fun to hang out with," he began.

"you really think so?"

"I don't just think so, I KNOW so!" He jumped up in front of you, "When have I ever been wrong," he smiled with confidence.

You opened your mouth to speak but before you could say anything he spoke again.

"Don't answer that," he pointed at you.

You huffed a short laugh at this and Leo smiled. There you were.

"Honestly though, I don't think Donnies much of a looks guy anyways I mean, have you seen the guy? And besides just because he's not in love with you doesn't mean it had anything to do with your appearance. It's just that he doesn't see you that way. Which might not be better but look, I know it's cliché to say but I genuinely think any guy would be lucky to date you, heck, I want to date you!" He rambled as he paced.

"You what?"

"What?"

He looked at you like he didn't just admit to wanting to date you.

"You want to... to date me?"

"Uuuuuuuh," he stared at you like an idiot, "Well- I- it wasn't- *sigh* I didn't mean to tell you right now, or like this, but... yeeah. Kind of. Alot."

"Oh." Was all you could muster. Not bad not good. Just slightly surprised.

"Maybe I should go?" He scratched the back of his neck sweating.

"Uhm yeah. Can, we talk about this later?"

"Sure! Of course. I mean, take your time, you've got other things going on so no rush. Sorry," He fumbled nervously while trying to make a portal out of there.

"It's okay, I- I'm not upset or anything."

"Okay... good! Well, I'm, see you later then!"

"Yup, you too," you waved him off and then he was gone, just as quickly as was here.

You weren't sure how to feel about this whole situation now. Leo liked you like that? Did people know? Is the only reason you didn't because you were so focused on Donnie? Just how long had Leo liked you like that?

You were more confused then ever and while you were left with more questions then you had before, one thing stuck with you. He thought you were pretty.

[tmnthq17-blog]

Always Wanted

{A/N: This story is the first sequel to "Dream Come True"; The image above is Y/N's gift to Donnie}

It's been one year since Donnie and Y/N confessed their feelings for one another. Tonight is the one year anniversary of their relationship, and Donnie has something big planned.

Per Donnie's instructions, April, Leo, Mikey, and Raph took Y/N to a karaoke bar to celebrate. For the sake of not raising suspicion, the guys had on the human watches Donnie had made and recently upgraded.

Leo: "A toast, to the world's best, albeit most odd and geeky, couple ever."

Leo dons a sly grin as they all raised their lemonades in unison.

Y/N: "All joking aside Nardo,"

Y/N used the nickname she knew he had a strong disliking for, which received an annoyed glare from the blue-clad slider turtle.

Y/N: "I wouldn't say we're the world's best couple."

Y/N dons a shy smile, unable to resist thinking about her brainy 'bad boy', as he liked to call himself, of a boyfriend. Y/N had a surprise of her own for her knight in purple armor, which was underneath the very table the five of them were seated at. However, she would soon realize that her gift may pale in comparison to his wondrous surprise.

April: "Are you kidding Y/N/N? You two are like birds of a feather, or in this case turtles of a shell."

Both girls laughed at her joke.

Just then, a the sound of microphone feedback filled the room as everyone in the establishment turned their heads to find the sound's source. Only for them to find Donnie in his human form with a nervous smile as he addressed the crowd.

Donnie: "Good evening, everyone. So, tonight is the first anniversary of me and my girlfriend's relationship, and I figured if she has enough courage and bravery to stand in front of a crowd of people, I see no reason why I shouldn't do the same. So, this is dedicated to the one and only Y/N, my Nightingale. I only hope I can do as amazing of a performance as she can."

The crowd aww'ed in response as Donnie took a deep breath to calm his nerves, while Y/N couldn't help but smile in surprise and astonishment at the soft shell's grand romanic gesture.

She turned towards her friends, who all had prideful, knowing smirks towards each other.

Y/N: *whispers* "Did you guys know about this?"

Mikey: "We may have had a teeny, tiny inkling about this. We would've told you earlier, but Donnie wanted it to be a surprise."

Y/N: "It's fine, guys. I'm glad you didn't ruin the surprise. But now the gift I got him for today seems so much smaller compared to this."

Raph placed a hand on her shoulder and dons reassuring smile.

Raph: "Relax, Y/N, I'm sure that whatever you got him, he'll love just the same." 

Y/N turned back towards the stage as the music began to play.

{A/N: Bold and underlined is wherever I've changed the lyrics}

Donnie:

You know I'd fall apart without you

I don't know how you do what you do

'Cause everything that don't make sense about me

Makes sense when I'm with you

Like everything that's green, girl, I need you

But it's more than one and one makes two

Put aside the math and the logic of it

You gotta know you're wanted too

'Cause I wanna wrap you up

Wanna kiss your lips

I wanna make you feel wanted

And I wanna call you mine

Wanna hold your hand forever

And never let you forget it

Yeah, I wanna make you feel wanted

Anyone can tell you you're pretty, yeah

And you get that all the time, I know you do

But your beauty's deeper than the make-up

And I wanna show you what I see every night

When I wrap you up

When I kiss your lips

I wanna make you feel wanted

And I wanna call you mine

Wanna hold your hand forever

And never let you forget it

'Cause, baby, I wanna make you feel wanted

As good as you make me feel

I wanna make you feel better

Better than your fairy tales

Better than your best dreams

You're more than everything I need

You're all I ever wanted

All I ever wanted

And I just wanna wrap you up

Wanna kiss your lips

I wanna make you feel wanted

And I wanna call you mine

Wanna hold your hand forever

And never let you forget it

Yeah, I wanna make you feel wanted

Baby, I wanna make you feel wanted

You'll always be wanted

Before the audience could applaud, Y/N stood in shock as Donnie got on one knee and opened a small box to reveal a gorgeous engagement ring. With every word he spoke, she walked slowly towards the stage.

Donnie: "Y/N, ever since I met you, you've been all I ever wanted in a best friend, in a girlfriend, and now, in a wife. You gave me something I never knew I needed, and made me feel something I've never felt before in my life. It's taken me a while to be brave enough to ask something I've wanted to ask you from our first official date, and to plan this down to the very last microscopic detail. But I finally have the courage of doing this. So, Y/N Y/M/N Y/L/N, my Aphrodite, my Nightingale, will you do me the greatest honor in the world, maybe even the universe, of becoming my wife?"

As Y/N walked to the stage, her eyes filled to the brim with tears, she didn't hesitate for even a second before answering.

Y/N: "Yes, yes, yes, a million times yes!!! Of course, I'll marry you Donatello!"

As soon as she finished her reply, Donnie stood back up, slid the ring on her finger and gave her a kiss full of relief, passion, joy, happiness, and of course pure and true love.

As the newly engaged couple kissed, the audience gave them a standing ovation as Leo shouted.

Leo: "Took you long enough, D!"

Everyone laughed as the two of them walked off the stage towards the table Y/N had previously sat at.

Y/N: "So, are you ready for your surprise, Handsome? It kinda pales in comparison to all of this, though."

Donnie: "Babe, whatever you got me, I'll love no matter what it is."

Donnie lovingly smiled towards her. As they sat down, Y/N brought the purple-wrapped gift out from under the table and handed it to her newly engaged fiancé. He opened it to find a replica of the purple satin jacket he had worn during his first run-in with The Purple Dragons.

Donnie: "Y/N, this is so amazingly thoughtful. This is by far the greatest gift I've ever gotten"

Donnie had a look of sincerity and thankfulness as he looked over his new gift from front to back.

Mikey: "Hey, what about the family portrait I made for you on your 6th birthday?"

Mikey used a playful tone with an equally playful pout, knowing his older brother meant well by his previous statement. As the six of them laughed and talked into the night Y/N couldn't help but imagine her new future with her fiancé, as well as her future brothers-in-law, while thinking one thing: This was where she belonged, and who she belonged with. It didn't matter where or when her wedding to Donnie was, all she knew was that as long as he was by her side, she would always be wanted.

[legendweaver]

The Onryo Boys at the Comp

aka what has been going through their heads

@tmntaucompetition 2025

← The Confrontation →

Ready, Leo turns to his brothers. Mikey is flopped backwards on the hill, staring glumly up at the still sky, letting out air in a long, spit-filled "pfbtbtbtbbtbtbtbb" before drawing more breath and repeating. Donnie was...glaring at a handful of grass in his hand, for some reason. Glowering at it as if he could will it to burst into flames with the heat of his gaze.

As much as Leo had missed each of his brothers like a lost limb, he had not missed corralling them.

"Okay", he broke the silence, hand falling to one of his katana handles as he readied to stand, "I think we should start checking out the outskirts for any signs."

Mikey somehow sunk into the hill even more, letting out an impressively loud groan, that might have been funny in a different situation, drawing a couple of gazes their way. "But we've been looking forever."

Despite himself, Leo found his lips twitching upwards. They had been searching for a while. While he didn't want to take a detour or a break, maybe they could see if there was food-

"Why bother."

Cold cut through Leo's being as his gaze shot to Donnie at the callously spoken words. His taller sibling barely spared him a glance before returning to idly, uncaringly, playing with his grass.

"I mean, really. What's the point?"

As a shot of rage went through him, Leo's grip tightened instinctively tightened on his katana handle.

A sudden burst of wind flattened the grass to the curve of the hill, tearing the grass from Donatellos grip as he startled.

"And what's your plan then?" he spat, each word dripping with venom.

Donatello was silent a moment as the wind faded, then spoke softly, "We don't even know if he's here." The final word cracking under the weight of a grief that shouldn't be there, because Raph wasn't gone. Just-

"We both know that there are others here who were separated, and still they all appeared here." Leo fought to soften his voice, he shouldn't lose control of his emotions so easily. The last thing he needed was to yell at his brothers.

Donnie didn't seem to have the same caveat. "Yes, separated! As in, in different parts of New York or the world, or some kind of 'Hidden City'," he gestured with finger quotes. "Not sealed away in some, some, some spiritual pocket dimension cut off from reality!"

Mikey's head flopped into view, partly obscured by Donnie. "I mean it's not like we've, you know, asked anyone. We've seen booths and peeps that are meant to help turtles like us find each other!"

Donnie threw his arms into the air, "For the last time, Michelangelo, I told you that I don't carry uranium on me!" And as Mikey pouted at him, spat, "And don't act all high and mighty, when I know you still have that lollipop in your pocket."

Mikey shrank on himself, hand hovering over his hoodie pocket, something dark flickering over his face for a moment before falling into apathy. Instead of a reprimand or anything relevant, Leos burning question from earlier slipped out. "And why does it sound like you have uranium at home?!"

Donnie whirled on him so fast he slid in the dry grass a little, and Leo absently worried about whiplash. "Oh, to build a nuke, of course!" he screeched, voice rising a few octaves and cracking a bit like it used to do when he was younger. "It's for Chompy!" he hisses, quieter.

Leo reels back, surprised. That... wasn't what he expected. "Why does Chompy need uranium?!"

Donnie paused for a moment, before taking a breath, arms finally dropping, and hands relaxing from their idle strangling pose. "Besides his diet of organic and inorganic materials, Chompy requires a steady supply of outside energy or radiation to stay healthy".

"I know that, but we never needed uranium before!" While he's not sure what Raph had originally been doing, he was sure he hadn't used uranium! It had only been two years since Leo had left, what happened?! How big could Chompy have gotten?!

Donnie's expression darkened, "And I wonder what could have happened to change that", he spat.

Leo flinched.

The hill fell silent. Something complex passes over Donatello's face, and he shrinks back into himself, gaze dropping, but Leo can't truly absorb it at the moment.

Mikey’s voice was soft, slowly pulling on a loose thread of his hoodie as he twined it around his finger. "He used to take Chompy up in the mornings to get some sun as the sun came up. Let me come along once or twice."

"I... didn't know that. He never told me", Leo said hesitatingly. It sounded like something Raph would do. The image in his head; of a safe, healthy Raph, bundled up sitting on a New York rooftop, enjoying the sight and feeling of the sun coming up, a snoozing Chompy resting in his lap as he traded idle pokes and banter with Mikey filled him with such intense longing, an ache felt down to his bones.

Mikeys rolled onto his side, propping himself up with his elbow, head turned towards him, eyes dark and voice flat, "Maybe we don't need you as much as you think we did".

Leo freezes, breath caught in his throat. He can barely hear the hiss Donnie lets out at Mikey; whatever words he says are lost to him. Mikey only rolls his eyes, rolling back to lie flat, cheeks puffing as he lets out a huff of air.

Leo stares at them for a moment, stunned. He knew there would be some animosity, some blame. He was prepared for his brothers to hate him. Or maybe he hadn't. Maybe he hadn't expected it from both of them. Maybe he hadn't expected them to be so open about it.

Didn't they understand? He hadn't wanted to, but he had to. He had to.

He swallowed back the acid that curled in the back of his throat, as something bitter and angry curled in his stomach for a moment. He would not lash out and give in to his emotions. His earlier slip was bad enough. He was better trained than that.

Ignoring the burn in his eyes, Leo stood. "Stay here if you want. But I am going to continue searching", voice still and composed. He leapt neatly down the hill and began making his way down the dirt road. 

For a moment there was silence behind him, before the grass rustled and two more pairs of footsteps rushed after him.

-------------------------------------------

oof.

references: ultimate Donatello from @monobrobe and my reply to this ask from @littlemissartemisia.