You know, I kind of wondered were Leo got his nickname from. So here's my idea. Enjoy!

Disclaimer: I do not own Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles


Michelangelo was the one who had given the nickname "Fearless". When Michelangelo had been about five years old, he had such a terrible nightmare that he had ran into Leonardo's room crying. Mikey had dreamed that a monster was in his room wanting to eat him (At least that was what Leo thought Mikey said, he couldn't really tell because of the way Mike was blubbering) and dashed out of his room with his teddy bear to seek comfort from the brother nearest to him (Mikey usually went to Raphael or Master Splinter when he had a nightmare).

During his mad dash to his eldest brother's room, he had dropped his teddy bear in the hallway. After Leo had successfully calmed his youngest brother, he had told Mikey that he would get the bear. Mikey had clung to him, begging him not to go, afraid that the monster would get Leonardo. But Leo simply said, "I'm not afraid of some stupid monster," and left the room.

Leo returned a few minutes later proudly brandishing the teddy bear and said, "That monster is gone and it's not coming back!" A few minutes later, both small turtles were sleeping next to each other.

The next morning Michelangelo had excitedly told the rest of the family what happened over breakfast. He had told the rest of the family how cool and brave and absolutely fearless Leo had been. At one point he had exclaimed, "Leo's not 'fraid of anything! He's fearless!" Over time, the name stuck and Leonardo had become the "Fearless Leader".

Leo never told his brother's, but he was flattered that they saw him in that way. In a world that was full of uncertainties and fear, his brothers believed that no matter what, he would always lead them through it. Leonardo was amazed that his brothers had such faith in him.

Years later, Leonardo still cherished the name.


A/N: Gah! Bad ending is bad!

Feed the hungry author! Thanks for reading and please review.