Welcome back my friends!
So, here is the last chapter for the arc Off-road, I'm glad everyone has enjoyed the story thus far!
Let's get into the action, shall we?
"Will you stop pacing," Long-spear groused, polishing the scabbard of the ceremonial sword he would carry in the wedding, "you're making me dizzy."
Leo ignored the merman, unable to stop his nervous movement. It was barely two hours before the ceremony, soon his life would be changed, and he'd be forced to begin the new one. Another jolt of terror jittered down the turtle's spine, making his frame shake. Leonardo wrapped his arms around himself, clenching his jaw, wishing for all he was worth that his father was here. What he wouldn't give for his family to come rushing in, guns blazing, to his rescue? In short, nothing. He'd even cut off his right hand if it meant that his family would miraculously walk through the door, stating it was time to go home.
"Leonardo," the merman groaned, setting the blade down so to scowl at his friend, "I know you have good reason to be upset, I won't lie and say that I'd take it any better, however, you're going to make yourself sick. If you don't calm down, you're going to puke, and then I'm going to puke because I have a weak stomach around vomit. Do you really want to make both of us ill?"
"I'm sorry if my being scared out of my mind is annoying you!" the turtle snapped, before pulling up short at his own tone, then wearily scrubbed at his face, "Sorry, Long-spear, I didn't mean to shout. It isn't your fault that this is happening."
The guard pursed his lips thoughtfully, assessing the ninja, "It's understandable," he finally murmured, watching Leo's hands rub his plastron, "are you well? You keep rubbing your chest as if you're in pain?"
Leo's already tense features tightened, his shaky hand clenching into a fist over his heart, "I have a weird heart problem, it's something that's been hanging around for over a year, but an adventure down in some caves exacerbated it," he admitted softly, continuing his pacing, "I haven't even told my brothers about it, not completely anyway, I've been ignoring it in the hope it would just…go away."
"Last I checked, heart problems don't just 'go away'," Long-spear said, tone heavy with concern, "do you know what causes it?"
"Stress," Leonardo said with a dry chuckle, humorless and brittle, "if I'm in a situation where I can't think of a plan of escape or attack, my heartbeat gets a bit out of wack. Probably because I don't particularly enjoy being cornered."
"Find me a warrior who does," the mer answered, tone just as dry.
"I don't know, I think Raph might," the ninja answered absently, voice soft with regret.
"Who?"
Leonardo sighed, closing his eyes as grief overwhelmed his senses, "My brother," he replied, "he's a powerful ninja, and can take down a pack of thugs with or without his weapons. A real backstreet brawler, as well as my closest friend. I can trust him to call me out on my crap, but I can also trust him to support me when I fall apart. Didn't used to, but…we've come a long way."
"Sounds like quite the warrior," Long-spear nodded, a small smile on his face, but then the warrior sighed, "but back to the main point. I think after the ceremony you should see the royal family's personal physician. Being married to the princess will be a high stress position, and as your official bodyguard, it's my job to ensure your safety, which includes health concerns."
The turtle nodded, eyes downcast, a sharp longing snapping his heart into pieces, an ache of yearning for the lab in the lair, or the cozy house of Doctor Lowrey, throbbing deep in his chest. No doubt, if they were here both Donnie and Anthony would be reading him the riot act for keeping such a big secret from them. He'd probably be on the receiving end of a long-winded lecture about why heart problems shouldn't be played with and how he was an idiot for not saying something sooner. They'd be right, he was an idiot for keeping it to himself. He should have told them, should have said something, now they may never know, and once again it was his fault. Leonardo Hamato, the massive screw-up, ruining his and others' lives like it was his job. Maybe he didn't deserve to be rescued? Maybe his family would end up having an easier time without having to babysit his worthless shell every moment of the day? Leo shook his head fiercely, physically removing the dark thoughts creeping up in the back of his mind.
He had promised Mikey that he wouldn't think like that again. However, he'd also promised that if he did, he'd come to them. Another flood of grief engulfed him, cold and bruising, like a slap from an ocean wave in the middle of January. That wasn't an option for him anymore. He'd been slowly realizing over the last few days that this was real, that he wouldn't be rescued, that he would never see his family again. Yes, Glimmer was beautiful, and truthfully made his heart skip a beat, but despite that, Leo couldn't help the selfish wish to have both her and his family. The young leader worried that one day the camaraderie they enjoyed the day before would slowly become infected by bitter resentment, ending with both of them old and grey, hating each other for the circumstances that led to their marriage. That wasn't a life he would ever desire, for himself or the princess.
However, their mutual attraction aside, that didn't ease the pain of the deepest part of his heart yearning desperately for his family. He wanted to go home. Even if it meant being ribbed and teased for this particularly ridiculous adventure by his brothers, even if it meant being scolded and grounded for another month by his father, even if it meant losing his title as leader of his team and clan. He wanted to go home. Home to the worn out couch and under-stuffed pillows in their living room, home to the ratty kitchen replete with the chipped and scuffed dining room table and it's mismatched chairs, home to his brothers and father, and even the cat Klunk. What he wouldn't give to feel the warmth of their arms around him again.
The duo startled at the sound of a bell, prompting Long-spear to slowly stand with a groan, "Sounds like it's almost time. We should get to the throne room."
Heart giving another pang, Leonardo merely nodded, quietly following the warrior out of his room, and trudging down the hall like a turtle resigned to his death.
He'd never been in the throne room before, and what he expected paled in comparison to what he saw. If the courtroom was large, then the throne room was massive. How the merpeople lived in secret with underwater structures like this without being discovered was either a marvel of technology, or simply a miracle that they haven't been noticed by now. Once again, he saw the glass ceiling, aquatic life swimming by as if this underwater football stadium wasn't anything to wonder at. Below, the floor shimmered, a veritable mosaic of pearl, iridescent shells, and precious stones set under a clear glass like surface, that swirled brilliantly underfoot. However, the thing that set Leo's teeth on edge and his heart racing, wasn't the magnificence of the interior, but it's occupants. Thousands of merfolk were gathered, looking to the very end of the space where the King sat on a vorpal throne, the Crown-Prince standing to his right. The feeling of thousands of eyes suddenly turning to look at him sent every alarm bell that Master Splinter had trained into him screaming. Leonardo had to fight the urge to pull a ninja vanish, however, that also would never again be an option for him after today.
Striving to distract himself from the terrifying sensation of being watched, as well as the depressive sinking of his heart as he made his way towards his future father-in-law, Leo assessed the room, brow furrowing as he noticed something odd. Despite hosting a royal wedding, the room was not bedecked in elaborate decorations, in fact, if you weren't aware that a wedding was about to take place you'd never know. Strangely, that eased some of Leonardo's discomfort about joining the family as he could see the King wearing a look that was at once thoughtful but held a measure of sorrow. Strange, by the way Glimmer described her father yesterday, Leo would have thought the monarch would be more enthusiastic. However, the merman seemed quite somber. It was too bad they required a unanimous vote from the council to pass a pardon. Otherwise, Leo had a feeling he would have already been sent home.
Taking his place at the foot of the throne, Leonardo turned to wait for the entrance of Glimmer, his heart and mind far away, yearning for the warmth of home.
….
Splinter sat in the front passenger chair of the submersible, cobalt eyes glaring straight ahead as his most intelligent son expertly steered the craft through the cold coastal waters. The rat stopped his right leg from bouncing impatiently, closing his eyes briefly to regain a semblance of peace. Not that he was fooling anyone, they were all on edge with the insane turn their lives had taken. It was one thing for Leonardo to be abducted by an enemy bent on revenge, but this was an entirely different battlefield, one he never thought he or his sons would ever partake in. The realm of politics was not completely unknown to Splinter; however, he'd never anticipated he or his sons being embroiled in its many treacherous facets. True, the rat had friends in high places, his relationship with the Daimyo had allowed he and his children to enjoy once in a lifetime experiences, for which Splinter was grateful. However, their life of secrecy had lent the master a certain feeling of security, even in spite of their constant vigilance to not be discovered and enjoy that anonymity without expectations or responsibility. Plus, they were not as on edge around aliens and creatures than they were around the humans of their home dimension.
Maybe it was due to Splinter's experience with the Battle Nexus that made him somewhat less cautious around other creatures of either mythical or inter-dimensional origin. Somehow believing that in their common strangeness, they carried a sort of kinship, that would allow his sons a measure of protection. He was a fool and was now paying the price for his ignorance. Or more accurately, Leonardo was paying the price. His poor, sweet, honorable baby was merely trying to save the life of another, unknowingly stepping onto a battlefield that he held no experience with and was suffering for it. Splinter sighed, whiskers and ears drooping. He should never have let them go camping so close to the coast. He should have insisted they stay near or at the farmhouse. The aged rat slowly shook his head, no, he couldn't have predicted that this would happen, and to hold himself responsible would by hypocritical, as it was the same thing, he'd chided Leonardo for countless times over the years.
Neither he, nor his son, could have known that what was meant to be an act of chivalry turned into a life altering disaster. Splinter crossed his legs, once again stopping the right one's bouncing.
They were going to rescue Leonardo, and then they would go home. No doubt his child has not slept well; separated from his family, homesick and hurting, Leonardo never was able to sleep when his mind was weighed down with regrets and sorrow. Splinter did not think that the young leader had eaten well either, another quirk of his eldest, as Leonardo had no appetite if his emotions were in turmoil. The rat frowned as another thought struck him, after their rescue Leonardo may try to distance himself from his family out of guilt, a bad habit they hadn't quite worked out yet. The boy still had the unfortunate trait that if he felt he had betrayed his family in any way, he'd punish himself by isolating away from them, convinced he was unworthy of their affection. He would need to speak to his brothers, and ensure they are aware that they may need to coax Leonardo out of his room and reassure him that he was worthy of their love.
"It's so weird," Michelangelo said quietly, baby blue eyes looking out a porthole in the back, "I mean, I've sometimes thought about us possibly getting married and having families when we're grown up, but this just feels surreal."
"That's because this isn't the ideal way to get married, Mike," Donatello muttered, "I get that this may have been the only way to dodge the death penalty, however, I'm mad at the corner they put Leo in over this."
"Threatenin' the lives of his family was a jerk move," Raphael heaved a sigh, then gave a sorrowful shake of his head, "I can't imagine how Fearless is doin'," he murmured, "I know that he'd do anythin' ta protect us, but if it were me, I'm not gonna lie, I'd be scared outta my shell right now."
Michelangelo turned his solemn gaze towards their father, panicked concern dancing on the edges of his eyes, "Is he scared, Dad?"
Splinter paused, unsure of how much to reveal, however, he knew it would be unwise to deny his sons news of their brother, "He is very scared, Michelangelo," the aged rat admitted, "but the strongest emotion I can feel from him is grief and loneliness."
His sons fell silent, each absorbing their father's words with grim expressions.
They've never done well apart from each other. Their life, and the risks that came with it, made their family an extremely tight knit one. Almost to a fault. They didn't like being separated from each other; to the point that it would affect their health, both mental and physical. For all Leonardo's many strengths, even he was not exempt from acting his age when faced with losing any member of his family. Torn between rage filled grief, and a childish fear of abandonment, the young warrior would spiral out of control without his loved ones. And truthfully, neither Splinter, nor the younger brothers were any better. They too were lost without the comforting unit that was their family. When Leonardo was forced to go to Japan to gain some healing after all that they'd been through, their family suffered as they waited for his return. The Ancient One said that the eldest passed many a night sobbing into his pillow, wracked with sorrow that he did not have his brothers or father nearby. True, his son managed to come back better than when he'd left, but it was because he had left knowing that he would come back.
This time he had no such reassurances, and it was obviously weighing on Leonardo's soul.
"He wants to come home," Splinter continued, his own voice merely a rasp heavy with his own grief, "and we will make sure he can. Whatever it takes."
"Whatever it takes?" Donatello turned worried brown eyes to his father, "Are you saying you'd be willing to take the chance of starting a war?"
"Of course he is!" Raphael huffed, twirling a sai expertly in his right hand, "Leo may be willin' ta sacrifice himself, but we get a vote too, and I say ta let 'em come! They wanna pick a fight with our family, then that's their funeral."
The purple masked turtle's brow furrowed, the young scientist chewing on his bottom lip as he often did when distressed, "But, what about the city?" He asked, "we've put blood, sweat and tears into protecting New York, and now we're willing to let it be the scapegoat for our mistakes?"
"Donatello," Splinter began, cobalt eyes pleading with his son to understand, "we protect our city, yes, and you boys have kept the streets safe and stood against evil forces with strength and integrity. As your father, I am filled with pride over your accomplishments, however you must understand, that as your father, I will do all in my power to save any of my children from whatever may threaten them. Regardless of who, or what, stands in my way.
"I am not proposing that we sacrifice the city to save your brother," the mutated rodent continued, "but I am saying that if I must choose between saving your brother, and leaving without him due to petty politics, then I will choose the life of my son every time."
Donatello's gaze softened at the devotion on display by their father, a parent who never held back his affection, and although the scientist still didn't look reassured at the fate of their beloved city, he once again cast determined eyes back on the screen tracking the location of their brother's shell cell. "Got it, but Plan A is still the diplomatic route, right?"
Splinter nodded, while Raphael gave a derisive snort, "Diplomatic ain't exactly what I'm hopin' for,"
"Raphael," Splinter sent his volatile son a stern look, "When we arrive, you will let me do the talking. If it becomes clear that peaceful solutions are not possible, I will tell you then, but not before. Understood?"
The brawler growled but nodded anyway, crossing his arms with an unhappy huff. The mutant rat gave his own nod, before once again addressing his children, "We must be prepared for anything, my sons," he stated, head high and shoulders erect, "and we will return home with your brother."
"Approaching coordinates," Donatello announced, right hand flying as it flipped switches and punched buttons, left hand still firmly guiding the submersible, "preparing docking procedures."
"Dude, you don't have to announce what you're doing," Michelangelo snickered, "I mean, it's just us, this isn't the military."
The scientist pouted, "Leo doesn't make fun of me," he muttered, "he thinks it's cool."
"Yeah, because he's a dork," Raphael smirked, "both of ya are."
"Well, excuse me for caring about authenticity," Donatello scowled, "and for your information, it keeps my mind busy. Unless you'd prefer that I be spinning out over the fact we're marching into enemy territory with zero intel, no backup, no solid escape plan, much less any plan at all, and no guarantee that we'll even manage to rescue Leo?"
Michelangelo and Raphael merely blinked in response, acknowledging the genius' point, Donatello huffed his response, "I thought so, now brace yourselves while I dock this thing."
By that point Donatello had pulled their craft inside a dimly lit space, the submersible breaking the surface with a muted crash of water. The purple masked teen pressed several more buttons, prompting docking mechanisms to fasten to the nearby wall, and the top hatch to open. Splinter stood from his seat, expecting his sons to have already hopped out, however, his sons were frozen in their spots, eyes staring expectantly in his direction. The rat paused, then drew in a steadying breath. Of course, right about now they would be receiving instruction from Leonardo, being made aware of the plan, and backup plans should the first fail. He was not here, though, and now they were turning to the only other authority figure that they could trust.
Splinter faced his sons, asserting the most confident appearance that he could muster. In truth, his heart was quailing, doubt plagued his mind, fear whispering in the recesses of his spirit that the societal law he'd come prepared with would fail to save his child. Even now his chest felt tight, breaths constricted in terror that they would be held prisoners, while Leonardo would be forced to go through with the ceremony. He couldn't show that to his boys, though. They needed to see confidence and strength. They needed their father.
Ears flattened as cobalt eyes gleamed with determination. Curling his lips in an animalistic snarl, Splinter rallied his troops, "Let's go save your brother."
…..
As one, the three younger brothers bolted from the craft, leaping out onto the platform protruding out from the docking station, followed swiftly by their father. Raphael looked around the space in awe, taking in the beautiful architecture with its sweeping glass dome, and iridescent pearl flooring, replete with chunks of glowing crystals set into the walls and ceiling giving the room a soft luminescence.
"Whoa," the brawler breathed, "Donnie, are these crystals the same ones we had in the lair a while back?"
"I would say that would be an accurate observation," the genius nodded, equally awed by their surroundings, "which means, that these merpeople might have connections to the Y'lyntians."
"Aw man," Mikey groaned, shoulders drooping bodily as he frowned, "No wonder I have such a bad feeling about this place. Those guys are like cockroaches, right when I think we're rid of them, they come right back!"
"We might not be dealing with the Y'lyntians themselves, Mikey," Don consoled, "I think they might be descendants of the merpeople the Y'lyntians created, or they just traded with the Y'lyntian people. Either way, though, we'll have to watch our backs."
Raphael swallowed down the tumult of emotions making his throat thick, stomach churning with anxiety over the literal pit of unknowns they were willingly walking into. However, he wasn't known as the clan's toughest turtle for no reason. Shaking off the nerves, Raph sauntered down the platform and onto the dock, water lapping at the edge of the white marble stone. Walking further into the room, the red masked ninja's eye was caught by the flash of gleaming metal. Topaz eyes widening, Raph rushed forward, and sucked in a sharp gasp when he found not only Leonardo's shell cell, but his katana as well. A calloused green hand held up the blades, keen gaze eyeing the point of one where the tip had been sheared off, the same tip that they'd found lying in the grass of the meadow. Nearby lay a bag, and as Raphael dug through it, he found his brother's scabbards, leather straps, belt, as well as elbow and knee pads. If he held any doubt of his leader being held here before, he sure as shell didn't now. Straightening up, the brawler pocketed Leo's phone then looked over his shoulder to where Donatello was studying the crystals in the wall.
"Yo, Don?" Raph called, jerking his chin in a gesture towards the bag, as his hands lovingly placed the katana back in their sheaths, "I found Leo's stuff, he's definitely here."
Donnie sighed in relief, his own shoulders slumping as he released a breath he'd been holding, "Right," he stated, turning to the youngest, "Mikey, would you put them in the submersible? If we're walking into enemy territory, I'd rather we not be weighted down."
Michelangelo was quick to obey, retrieving the bag and scabbards from Raphael, before darting out to place them inside their craft, "All done!" He chirped, false cheeriness painting a strained smile across his features, impatience eating away at the edges of the baby blue gaze, "Now, can we go rescue Leo?"
Splinter nodded, gesturing down the hall, "We must not waste any more time, my sons, your brother needs us."
The family darted down the hall, footsteps silent as ghosts, the reflection of the water rippling across their muscles. Reaching the end of the passage, Donatello cautiously felt along the door, finding a latch that would release the door, making it swing soundlessly on perfectly oiled hinges. The four shadow warriors leaned forward, watching as a group of giggling mermaids hurried down the brightly lit hall ahead. Each were bedecked in sparkling tunics, their hair woven with pearls, shells and precious gems.
"Hurry! We're going to be late!" A mermaid with scales that changed color between green, purple and blue urged.
"This is ridiculous," Her friend, a female mer with shimmering black scales that were lined in silver, rolled her eyes with a scoff, "Why do we have to practice speaking the outsider's language, it's not like he was a qualified suitor."
"You know very well why," the third mermaid scolded, bronze scales lined with crimson red stripes, "Princess Glimmer asked that we try to speak his language so he wouldn't feel alienated. He may not have been an approved suitor, but he is an honorable warrior who is to marry the princess. The least we can do is try to make him losing his former life and his family a little easier by speaking the language he knows."
The second mer scoffed, "Don't let your father hear that," she sneered, "Everyone knows that Councilman Whale would have rather let him be sent to the executioner's axe. If it weren't for the Crown Prince standing up to him during the trial, then your father would surely have been the one vote denying the outsider of the unanimous agreement for his pardon."
The third mermaid stopped, bright red eyes, the color of freshly drawn blood, narrowed at the black and silver mer, "My father does not have any say in my opinions," she stated coolly, "and as I am in full control of my mental faculties, I and anyone else with a functioning brain, can see what a tragedy this is. His only fault is that he interrupted a prosaic ritual that would have been misunderstood by literally anyone present who is unfamiliar with our traditions. Now, due to laws that have no business being obeyed due to their age, he is losing everything he knows, and he'll never see his family again! You heard how he spoke of his father and brothers during the trial, how much love he holds for them, do you honestly think he's happy about the prospect of being separated from them for the rest of his life, without even the option to say goodbye? Do you?!"
"Get 'em," Raphael whispered, exchanging a small fist bump with Michelangelo, the youngest giving a snicker of agreement.
A quiet growl silenced any further commentary, their father reminding them that they are supposed to remain unseen until the proper moment. Out in the hall, the second mermaid struggled to come up with a decent argument, prompting the first to grab both their arms with a pleading groan, "You two can fight later!" She begged, "but I want to see the Princess in her wedding tunic! So, can we go now? I don't want to miss her entrance!"
The tension between the two mer lessened as they exchanged a bemused glance, then slowly turned to the first mermaid, "Dazzle," the second mermaid smirked, "you and I both know that it's not the princess you want a look at."
Dazzle's eye widened as she blushed, "I don't know what you're talking about, Obsidian," she said with a dainty sniff.
Where there had once been anger, there now was only mischief, Obsidian leaning forward with a smarmy grin, "Who was it that told us, Coral?" She drawled, winking at the third mermaid, "About how Dazzle had a crush on the outsider?"
"I do believe that it was Glimmer," Coral replied, red eyes twinkling with repressed laughter, "she told us that Dazzle wanted to know if she could meet his brothers."
"Dude, we're famous!" Mikey whispered, before getting a flick to the forehead to be quiet.
Dazzle released a wail of embarrassment, hiding her face in her hands, "It's not my fault that he's cute!" She moaned, voice muffled by her palms, before lowering them to send an angry pout at her friends, "I'm not the only mermaid who thinks so, either! Honestly, we have so little options here, there's lots of mermaids who'd love to meet them. Especially if they're handsome and can fight like he can."
The besotted mer let out a swooning sigh, one hand fanning her face, "Honestly, I'm jealous of the princess. The fact he has brothers is a major plus!" Dazzle paused, lips pursing thoughtfully, "Do you think they'd want to come live here?"
"Ain't happenin'!" Raphael growled.
"I doubt it," Coral clucked her tongue with a somber shake of her head, "unless the Crown Prince makes good on his vow to overhaul the old bylaws, I wouldn't wish our existence on any outsider. It's hard enough to live here as part of the tribe. Imagine having the freedom to travel ripped from you? No, they'd run screaming, and I wouldn't blame them."
Obsidian shook her head, "How do you have such thoughts, when the Councilman who is most determined to cling to the old ways is your father?"
The bronze and crimson mermaid gave a gentle shrug, "My mother is not one who likes the old ways, she would rather we update the bylaws to reflect our changing society."
"Well, I think," Dazzle began, before her thoughts were cut off, her lavender eyes growing wide with enthusiasm, "Princess Glimmer, you look stunning!"
The family jolted, they'd been so engrossed in the conversation, that they hadn't noticed the arrival of the mermaid set to marry Leonardo. Raphael felt his breath catch in his throat, and suddenly, he could understand why his brother put himself in danger. The princess was definitely beautiful, her lithe frame as delicate as a rose, but a gentle strength squared the slim shoulders. Bright green eyes, sparkling like twin emeralds, stared out from the lovely face, framed by onyx hair which was swept up into an elegant style interwoven with pearls and sapphires. To see a mermaid like her in a dangerous situation, that probably had Fearless tripping over himself to help. Raph repressed an amused chuckle, out of the four of them, Leo was the one most likely to play the part of the white knight to a fair maiden.
However, Raphael had to admit that he and his brothers were all given to perform acts of chivalry. Even he, the back-alley brawler wouldn't walk away from a woman in need of a rescue. To do so would be dishonorable.
"Whoa," Donatello breathed.
Raph snorted, apparently it wasn't just him, "Gotta say, Leo knows how ta pick 'em."
"No kidding," Mikey snickered.
"My sons," Splinter sighed, "we are supposed to be silent."
"Sorry sensei," came the unanimous reply.
Looking back out the cracked open door, Raphael watched the Princess approach the other mermaids, dismissing her entourage of bodyguards and lady's maids with a flick of her fingers. "Hello," she greeted, "I thought you would be in the throne room by now?"
"We were supposed to be," Dazzle sighed, "but then they got distracted."
"Who's distracted?" Obsidian asked dryly, "We weren't the ones mooning over the thought of the outsider's brothers."
Dazzle pouted, pursing her lips angrily, before turning back to the princess, "I'm going to go to the throne room, but I just want to say that you look fabulous, princess!" She stated, then with one final imperious glare at Obsidian, whirled with a huff to stomp away.
The black and silver mermaid sighed, rolling her eyes, "I'll follow Dazzle, see you there."
The mermaids nodded, watching as Obsidian and Dazzle made their way to the throne room, before Coral turned to the princess to ask softly, "So, judging by the fact that we're even standing here tells me that our plan did not go as anticipated yesterday?"
Glimmer gave a sad sigh, eyes becoming downcast, "No," she breathed, but then gave a humorless laugh, "his honor outweighed my wish to save him."
Coral chuckled, shaking her head, "I figured that might happen," she sighed, "just from his testimony at the trial I could tell he was a mer of integrity. He impressed everyone with his performance. I even overheard many of the council praising the father capable of raising such a warrior."
Splinter smirked in the darkness, pride swelling in his chest. Raphael shared a pleased glance with the mutated rat, then returned his attention to the conversation. Glimmer was smiling gently, her face blushing slightly, "He is wonderful," she murmured.
The bronze and crimson mermaid paused, red eyes widening, "Don't tell me,"She snickered, tone shifting into something teasing and playful, "you've fallen for him? I mean, it's not an issue, as you're marrying him, but you look genuinely smitten."
The blush deepened, and Glimmer patted her now rosy cheeks, "I'd be an idiot not to be," she defended, shoulders hunching shyly, "he's smart, and he's funny, and he doesn't treat me like his personal ticket to power and prestige. He cares about his family more than himself, what mermaid wouldn't be drawn to such a mer as him?"
"Touché," Coral shrugged, a soft smile on her face.
"It is unfortunate, though," The princess murmured, sorrow darkening her lovely face.
Coral quirked an eyebrow, cocking her head in confusion, "What is?"
"Our circumstances," Glimmer clarified, "the situation which has led us to an arranged marriage, without thought or consideration of either party."
"And why is that such a problem?"
"I just wish," the Princess released a heavy sigh, "I just wish that if we had met as others do, had a more traditional courtship…then maybe…"
"You'd still be in an arranged marriage," Coral finished dryly, "at least when it comes to our idea of a traditional courtship. His culture, it would be vastly different, but regardless, you don't have the luxury of a courtship."
Glimmer nodded slowly, "I know, as much as I wish we had, I can now only hope that one day he will somehow forgive my inability to protect him, to save him."
"Two peas in a pod," Donatello huffed, a small smile brightening his features, "I'd almost say they were made for each other if it wasn't for the fact we'd lose Leo forever."
Raphael couldn't help but agree, watching as Coral placed a consoling hand on Glimmer's shoulder, "I'm sure he knows that there is nothing to forgive," she said gently, before her red eyes began glowing in mischief, "so, have you kissed him yet?"
Glimmer squeaked, the blush returning with a fervor, spreading down her neck and burning the tips of her ears, making them flatten against her head. The princess opened and shut her mouth, unable to utter neither confirmation nor denial before whirling around and running away, leaving Coral behind, the bronze mermaid's jaw dropping in shock as she squealed to the back of the escaping royal, "YOU DID?!"
Coral chased after the princess, a delighted cackle echoing down the hall as she shrieked, "Tell me EVERYTHING!"
The small family waited as the guards and servants passed by, until they were finally well and truly alone. Michelangelo carefully opened the door, soundlessly darting across the hall so to scout out their location, before giving a satisfied nod. Straightening up, the youngest casually leaned against the wall, crossing his arms and smirking at his older brothers, "I like her," he stated, "I mean, I wouldn't want Leo to get married to her by force, but she's nice."
"Nice, and apparently very brave," Donatello chuckled, "especially if she tried to put the moves on Leo."
"Aw, man," Raphael laughed, his face wreathed in a wicked grin, "I'm tryin' ta picture his face," the brawler melted into guffaws at the mental image of a flustered and embarrassed Leonardo, "I bet Fearless was freakin' out!"
"Poor aniki," Donnie shook his head fondly, "he really attracts the craziest kind of trouble."
"Yeah," Mikey nodded, mirth dissipating only for his features to grow thoughtful, "while I know there's still a lot at stake right now, and we need to be careful so we can rescue Leo, I'm glad that this isn't anything like the last time he went missing."
"No kidding," Don sighed, "but I'm glad to see that we may be wrong about the merpeople. Yeah, there are some jerks, but on the whole, they aren't so bad. It's their culture that's the problem."
"That's probably why they're tryin' ta help him," Raph murmured reflectively, "even they think their laws are screwed up."
Splinter nodded in agreement, "Indeed, Raphael, however, as we've already said, we still need to rescue your brother, let us not waste any more time."
….
The room had somehow taken on even more merpeople.
Leo fidgeted, self-consciously adjusting the clothes he had been required to wear. A fleeting glance stole across the crowds of thousands watching his every move, waiting for the ceremony sealing his incarceration to begin. Once again, his heart began to race, anxiety rushing through his veins like icy poison, making him dizzy. Drawing in a slow breath, the terrapin closed his eyes as he stifled the shudder that so wanted to shake his frame. He needed to be strong and get through the ceremony. He couldn't show weakness. His brothers were not here to catch him, his father was not around to comfort him, and so he must force strength back into his heart and spirit, even if only through sheer force of will. He needed to stand on his own two legs, he needed to learn how to be lonely, and not buckle or break.
"Steady, my son,"
Leonardo startled at the deep voice offering soft encouragement, using a term of endearment he'd only heard from his father. The ninja glanced up, meeting the gaze of the King of the mer, the older merman's yellow eyes soft with understanding. "I apologize," the turtle murmured, lowering his eyes respectfully, "I was lost in my thoughts."
"I can imagine," the King rumbled, "you have quite a weight on your shoulders, and it is to my sorrow that you are forced to bear such a burden."
Warmth filled the turtle, a grief filled gratitude, easing his racing heart. "While I'd like to say it's not a problem," Leo replied, "I think we can both agree that that wouldn't be very honest."
The sovereign chuckled quietly, leaning forward so their conversation was less likely to be eavesdropped upon, "I appreciate your honesty," he smirked, "despite the circumstances being what they are, I can't say I don't approve of the match. Based on what I've seen, you, and I'm sure your brothers as well, would be worthy of any Princess of any tribe. Your father must be very proud."
"My brothers are top quality," the ninja smiled fondly, sapphire eyes twinkling in pride, "Raphael is the strongest warrior I know, Donatello is a genius, and Michelangelo is pure sunshine. I love them more than I can say."
Leonardo's features fell, the sullen realization that he'd never see them again making its wretched reappearance. No matter how many times he endured it, the pain was the same. Loneliness all wrapped up in a prickly ball of thorny regret and self-loathing. The king couldn't help but notice the shift in mood, heaving his own sigh, "I'm sorry that our backward ways have brought this into being," the mer consoled, "if I could have managed it, you'd have been home by now. Unfortunately, changing our way of life requires more time and energy than I have to bring us into a happier future for the mer people."
"That's what I hear," Leonardo nodded, "The Crown Prince told me he has a lot of plans."
The monarch's face brightened, a loving smile stretching his mouth, "My son is exactly what this tribe needs," he agreed, "he's smart enough to enact real change, and I have no doubt he'll succeed."
Leo found himself mirroring the king's expression. It was endearing that such a powerful leader would also be such a dad. Much like Master Splinter. The rat was a strong warrior and incredibly wise leader, something that Leonardo aspired to become, and worked incredibly hard to emulate. However, his father was also a doting parent, even in the most dire of circumstances. Whether it was a fever that spiked out of control, a project that one of them was particularly proud of, or someone saying something rude about his kids, Master Splinter was only a hairs breadth away from going into full dad mode. It was something all the turtles appreciated, albeit quietly, enjoying the moments of loving devotion.
A horn sounded, and the King straightened, his face losing its happy glow to become more regal, "The ceremony is starting," he whispered.
Right on cue, the double doors at the end of the room opened, revealing the silhouette of Glimmer. A gasp caught in the back of Leonardo's throat, and as he watched, the princess began walking down the aisle towards the throne where he and the King stood. She was dressed in an elaborate sparkling silver tunic lined in diamonds. Her ebony hair was curled and pinned up, precious gems and pearls interwoven throughout. It really sucked that this was a forced marriage, and that it was also the worst day of his life since he was essentially being held against his will. Otherwise, the turtle would wonder how he'd manage to be lucky enough to end up with a mermaid as pretty as her, much less a princess.
All too soon she'd made her way to the throne, and as she stood at his side, Leonardo was once again face to face with the fact that everything he had, everything he knew, was officially destroyed. His life was over, and about to be replaced by a new one spent inside a gilded cage.
Terror over whelmed him, a skittering sensation like a wave of spiders crawling up and inside his shell, shaking him to his core. Suddenly, everything seemed fuzzy. Far away, as if it were the sound of a radio broadcasting under water. He registered the sound of the King speaking, but he couldn't understand the words. To make matters worse, his heart was racing again, and this time he couldn't breathe. His world was shifting sideways, and darkness ate at the corners of his vision. He couldn't do this! He didn't want to. Yes, Glimmer was everything he'd ever wanted, but not like this! Even if they had a happy life together, the fact that he'd never see his father and brothers again was enough to tarnish it forever. He didn't want to be a prisoner, no matter how fancy the surroundings.
A vision of the reptile area of the zoo he'd seen with Mikey reared its head in his mind's eye. That's what he'd be reduced to. A zoo exhibit. Placed on display for all to see, never to interact with the outside world again. His heart gave a sharp pang, making Leo wince, drawing Glimmer's attention. However, the young leader couldn't reassure her, he was too busy trying to breathe. He hated feeling so powerless. Hated the fact that despite all his training, he couldn't save himself. Just like with the skin walker. Once again, his weakness was his undoing, but this time he had no brothers to save him. He was well and truly lost.
"If any believe that these two should not be united, speak now or forever hold your peace,"
A miracle, Leonardo was praying, begging, for a miracle. Someone to end this nightmare. If only their turtle luck would let up, just this once, and allow him a rescue. He couldn't see, the inability to breathe making his vision tunnel. Leo wasn't even sure how he was still standing up. Seconds were stretching into what felt like hours, soon his window of rescue would pass and he'd be chained up and locked away. No hope. No mercy of rescue.
"If no one objects, then I will-,"
"Wait!" A familiar voice, worn with age, battered by experience, but warm and strong, "I object!"
Shocked murmurs broke out in the crowd, Leonardo felt Glimmer turn around to stare at the intruder interrupting the ceremony, and the King himself gave a startled gasp. "Who are you?" The fishman demanded, tone sharp but not malicious, "You are not mer kind, how did you get here and why are you disturbing this sacred ceremony?"
Not mer kind? Hope he hadn't dared allow himself to feel since this whole mess began flushed the icy fear out of his veins, a relieving warmth washing over the trembling turtle like a hot bath after a run through the snow. Leonardo, still unable to see through the panicked darkness blinding his vision, was almost knocked over by the dizzying sensation, but his footing was well and truly lost when he heard the intruder answer.
"I am Leonardo'a father, and I have come to take my son home!"
Finally, the veil of anxiety bled from the blue masked turtle's eyes, and as he turned, sapphire eyes met the angry gaze of his father. Intense relief sucked the remaining strength out of Leo's wobbling legs, and as his fell to his knees, the young warrior could only choke out in soft Japanese, "Father,"
…
Mikey clenched his hand into an angry fist. Yeah, he knew that there were mer people trying to help his big brother, and he was grateful, but it was hard to hold on to the feeling of gratitude when he looked at Leo. Their leader looked terrified, standing up there with a mermaid he didn't even know, sacrificing himself, yet again, for the good of his clan. All to rectify what? A misunderstanding? A petty law meant to punish anyone for interfering with some kind of ridiculous ritual? A law that was now forcing his brother to choose between his own life, and the life of his family, just because he wasn't aware of some secret society's customs.
It was times like these that Michelangelo realized that he truly hated politics.
The youngest shook himself out of his reverie, watching their father burst forward from their hiding place, and proceeded to march down the center aisle, and bellow his objection to wedding. The ceremony stopped, the large throne room of thousands of merpeople froze, and then chaos broke loose. Angry shouts, the feeling of thousands of pairs of eyes swinging around to look at their small family, and the bellow of the King questioning who they are and why they've come; yet Master Splinter was undaunted. He stood proudly with his head held high, and both hands on the head of his cane, fearlessly staring down the mer monarch. Mikey allowed himself a small smile. His dad was so cool. Baby blue eyes bounced up to where Leonardo stood, watching the eldest's full body slump in visceral relief. Shaking knees gave out, leaving their leader kneeling on the floor, even as his plastron heaved with the monumental effort Mikey knew it took to keep his emotions under control.
"Father," Leo's voice trembled, a breathless exclamation of relief, joy, and terror all rolled up into the fragile cry of a child for their parent.
Splinter's eyes softened as they lowered to meet the glassy gaze of his eldest son, before he responded in affectionate Japanese, "My son," the rat breathed, "do not be frightened, I will take care of this."
Leonardo nodded jerkily, still unable to pick himself up off the floor. Michelangelo wanted to run to his leader's side, and a darted glance at his brothers confirmed that they too were battling against the urge. However, they were still in enemy territory, and for Plan A to work, they needed to handle the situation very delicately. Meaning, no rushing out of formation and no unapproved actions. No doubt their father would never force them to remain aloof from a distressed sibling, but in this circumstance, they had to restrain their instincts from the comfort they so dearly wanted to give.
"Aniki," Donatello cried out, albeit quietly, the genius' face trembling as he strove to keep his own flood of tears at bay.
Their eldest brother seemed to startle out of a daydream, his unfocused gaze seeing them for the first time, acknowledging they too stood firm behind Master Splinter. The strong face crumpled, Leo losing control of the firm reign he had over himself for the briefest of moments, "Otouto," he gasped, eyes roving over his brothers, greedily drinking in the sight of them, their presence like water to a dying thirsty man, "I didn't…I wasn't….I'm so sorry,"
"Don't apologize," Raphael rumbled, voice soothing in its strength, "Like Dad said, we're gonna get ya out of here, whatever it takes.Just hold on, and we can talk once we're home."
Leonardo nodded once again, his movements still unsteady, betraying the dark circles barely hidden behind his mask. Mikey frowned, his brother obviously hadn't slept well since coming here, not surprisingly, and he'd be willing to bet that Leo hadn't eaten much either. His calloused hands clenched once again as fury surged through his veins. As the family chef, he took his brother's nutritional needs seriously, maybe not as serious as some, but he ensured they ate the necessary food groups with every meal. It had taken months of work and patience after the caves to help Leo realize that starving himself in deference to his brothers was not healthy. So, it was only natural that Michelangelo felt frustration when he could tell his leader was probably stressed not only in mind but in body.
With a sigh, the youngest returned his troubled gaze back to the throne, noting the stark relief on the princess' face. Not surprising, since she admitted to trying to sneak Leo out in an effort to save him. The mermaid was gazing at their family with a look torn between happiness and sorrow. If she was falling for Leo the way she confessed to be in the hallway, this must be bittersweet for her. Normally the romantic in Michelangelo would squeal happily at the prospect, and he wasn't against Leo maybe having a relationship with her later on, but not like this. Not when loving her meant severing his ties with his family and his world. Looking up at the merpeople sovereign, Mikey was surprised to find that the King did not look upset at their sudden appearance, just curious, and a little baffled. He probably wasn't the one who called them, then.
Michelangelo shook his head, centering himself back in the present. He needed to be focused if he was to be of any help to his father, in case things go wrong.
…..
Donatello was angry.
He wasn't sure when the negative feeling arrived, as he had laughed back in the hallway at the image of the princess attempting to kiss his brother. However, seeing their leader exhausted, scared out of his mind, and desperately holding himself together for the good of their family, it brought a flood of sorrowful anger. He knew it wasn't the fault of the princess, especially after she admitted to trying to help their leader escape. And truthfully, he didn't think the King would have enforced this marriage either. If he understood the conversation between the mermaids earlier, then his brother needed a unanimous vote from the council to have been released and allowed to go home. Donnie wasn't sure who Councilman Whale was, and why he would require so bitterly that his brother pay the ultimate price over a misunderstanding, but the normally pacifistic ninja dearly wanted to punch the merman.
"You are Leonardo's father?"
The voice of the King stirred the scientist, pulling him from his thoughts. Master Splinter nodded his grey furred head, shoulders back and head erect, as regal as any sovereign, "Yes," he confirmed, "I adopted my sons some seventeen years ago, and have trained them in the martial art of ninjutsu. Leonardo is my eldest."
"I see," was the King's reply, the fishman's eyes softening as he no doubt saw the similarities between the eldest and his brothers, "And you state to object to this union? On what grounds?"
Now they have come to the most decisive moment of their planned rescue. Donatello wasn't sure what supposed law or societal ruling their father had thought up, all he could do was pray that it would be enough to save Leo. Master Splinter pulled in a deep breath, gathering his words, then stated succinctly, "While I am honored that the royal family of this kingdom would consider my son worthy of marrying the princess," the rat stated magnanimously, "I fear that we are unable to agree to this union as my son is still underage, and therefore is not legally eligible for marriage."
Once again, the room burst into shocked murmurs, the voices so numerous it was hard to gauge the opinion of the room. The King's eyes widened, pale yellow glancing down to Leonardo and back to Splinter, "He is seventeen, in our culture that is old enough to marry. I assumed that due to his bearing the title of leader of your clan, he was also of age?"
"I can understand why you would feel that way," Splinter empathized, "due to circumstances beyond our control, I was forced to give him responsibility over his brothers, and then our clan, purely out of the wish to ensure our survival.
"My sons, led by Leonardo, have faced armies across entire dimensions, through space and time, and won many victories at the cost of their innocence." the mutant rodent mourned, ears drooping, "I have tried my best, but my weakening body is not strong enough to lead the way I would like. However, my son has proven himself as a leader, with his strength of character and Leonardo's great skill in strategy, he has provided the protection we require to live our lives in relative peace.
"His leadership abilities aside," Splinter finished, turning determined cobalt eyes back on the King, "it does not change that according to our culture, he is still a child, and cannot make such a decision without his family. I have come to retrieve my son, in the hope of sparing him so heavy a burden."
"That is where we may have problems," the merman sighed, "I acknowledge that your culture may define him as underage, however, in our culture he is of age for marriage. Our laws state that-!"
"Your laws hold no authority over my son, as he is not yet a citizen of this nation," Splinter snapped, eyebrows furrowing, "and as he was captured on dry land, away from this city's borders, then by all accounts of our laws and culture, he has been unlawfully abducted, and held illegally against his will."
Donatello's jaw dropped, eyes widening in realization. Of course, why hadn't he thought of that? Judging by the gobsmacked look on his brother's face, neither had Leonardo. Sapphire eyes were as big as dish plates as the scientist could almost see the gears turning in his leader's keen mind. They were so focused on finding a way around the fact Leo had accidentally interfered with a sacred ritual, they had completely overlooked the fact of where said ritual had been conducted. Namely, on land. This revelation not only made it possible that they wouldn't have to wait on the Crown Prince but could allow them to leave with Leo Scott free! Shell, their dad was so cool!
"Now," Master Splinter continued, tone turning congenial, "I am aware that your people hold the rule of law in the highest esteem. So, I would not enjoy making such a malicious charge against you. However, I believe you can see that legally, I hold the right to demand the release of my son, and in hopes of preserving the friendship of our two clans, I hope that you would deign to do so."
The scientist suddenly found himself stifling the urge to giggle. Pride for his father and relief for his brother battling for dominance, creating a hurricane of emotion that produced inane results. In truth, Donatello had been wracking his brain to think of a good reason to demand the release of Leo, but even if they could have convinced the King of extending the engagement period, they couldn't guarantee that Leonardo would have been allowed to go home with them. The mer people would have been well within their rights to demand he stay in their custody. However, their father thought of way around that as well. Donnie shook his head, exchanging happy, hopeful smiles with his siblings, before turning back to the King, who was also looking much happier as well.
"Well, now," he murmured, "that is an excellent point. I would hate to have my people be guilty of kidnapping."
"Indeed," Splinter agreed with a grave nod, "such a charge would be unbecoming of such a lovely city and people. Wouldn't it be better that we part as friends, and not enemies?"
"Indubitably," the King turned to his council who were seated to the right of the throne, "however, that still is unfortunately in the hands of the council.
"My council," the King asked, switching to his native tongue in deference to the older council members who did not speak English, "Brave-lion's father has made the most excellent point that, not only is Brave-lion underage and ineligible for marriage, but as he was captured on land, was unlawfully abducted by our people. He has requested that, in the effort of preserving peace between our tribes, we release his son back to him with the understanding that he had meant no harm. What say you?"
An elderly mer stood, waiting to be recognized before speaking, "I move to hold a vote on his release," his trembling voice quavered, "since coming to our city, Brave-lion has behaved honorably. Far more honorably than we, I would even venture to say. He was respectful during a trial when most would behave belligerently, and has shown honor to our culture by going along with our demands. I say, he has earned the right to go home."
"Sheesh," Raphael grumbled quietly to Mikey, "I wonder if they did this ta Leo?"
"Did what?" Was the youngest's whispered reply.
Raph leaned closer to their baby brother, "Speakin' a language that we don't know. It's rude, ya know?"
Michelangelo nodded, "Yeah, but it's also their home turf, we just gotta be patient and hope they're saying good things."
The brawler sighed, but merely nodded. Donatello maintained a quiet agreement, having heard their conversation. While they understood that the merpeople had a right to their language, but it sure made making a positive connection difficult. Whatever was being said though, was met by several nodding heads. A merman with bronze scales and red tiger stripes stood, face clouded with anger. "Are we voting to pardon the outsider? A verdict which would require a unanimous vote?"
"Pardon the outsider, for what?" The elderly mer cut in, the softness of his tone not hiding his derision for the council member, "I'm older than you, Great-fish, and remember an age where many more outdated laws were followed. Even then, we would have granted a pardon, as the only mistake made was one of misinterpretation!
"However," the merman continued, "it is not our right to separate this child from his father, who has also shown great decorum in the presence of the King. I believe a simple vote should suffice, and as I'm sure of what the result will be, we may part as friends and ally's, rather than bitter enemies."
Donatello watched a younger merman, one who stood at the right hand of the King, with midnight black scales rippling with gold tiger stripes, raise his hand to be acknowledged. "I second the motion for a vote," he said smoothly, "as our dear councilman said so eloquently, the only mistake made here was one of misinterpretation. Why should Leonardo bear the burden of our prosaic ways, when in fact, he was the one abducted?"
The scientist jolted, realizing he recognized the voice of the Crown Prince as the same voice that had called them on the phone. However, he had no chance to state this revelation as the Crown Prince continued his speech, "He was on dry land when captured," the mer stated, emphasizing the argument being made, "they were past mer borders when the altercation took place, and as one of our own previously stated during the trial, Leonardo showed our warriors great mercy in their defeat! He didn't draw even one drop of blood, and he was honorable in his wish to protect the princess. So, in essence, it is our people who are guilty of kidnapping, which is far worse than any interference with an outdated ritual. We cannot condone the punishment of one without acknowledging the shame of the other."
Donnie exchanged a look with Raphael, watching the brawler give a nod of approval. Whoever this Crown Prince guy was, he was awesome. Once again, the brother's returned their attention to the throne, relief as the King nodded in agreement, "The motion has been made and seconded. Let us hold a vote on the release of Leonardo Hamato."
The brothers huddled, hands seeking out the comfort of the others, wishing they could pull Leo into their embrace, but forced to once again restrain themselves. As for the leader, left still kneeling on the floor, looking as if he were awaiting execution, Leonardo watched the council murmur to themselves. Sapphire eyes, slowly filling with hope, turned to look at the King, the large merman raising his hand for silence, "The vote will commence," the monarch stated, voice ringing with authority, "all those in favor, raise your right hand and say yea,"
For several seconds no one moved, but then two mer raised their hands, quickly followed by a majority of the council, each speaking a thundering, "Yea!"
"And all opposed?"
The bronze and crimson merman, followed by a few others, raised their hands, "Nay!"
The King sighed out a long breath of relief, "The yea's have it," he smiled gently down at Leonardo, "therefore, let it be known that from this moment on, Leonardo Hamato is declared innocent of all wrongdoing, and is hereby released into the custody of his father forthwith."
…
Leonardo could barely believe his ears, he was free? They'd done it? Bellowing cries of victory burst from the aisle, and the young leader was quickly ensconced by the arms of his siblings. Feeling their warmth, the strength of their collective embrace, the young leader could only close his eyes in relief, silent tears slowly trickling down green cheeks. Shell, he was so tired. The blue masked head drooped, falling to rest on Raphael's broad shoulder, allowing the toughest turtle in the clan to support him as he strove to regather his strength. The brawler rested his cheek against the scaly head, breathing in the victory they'd attained, refusing to acknowledge just how close they'd come to losing their leader. Again.
Michelangelo clung to the eldest, uncaring of who saw him weep tears of relief, happy that their family was well and truly whole. However, the youngest didn't stay in the group hug long. Mikey leaned back, making his brothers' eyes startle open in surprise, confusion over why he wasn't involved in his favorite pastime etched into their features.
Orange masked brows furrowed, and the baby straightened his hand out, and as his middle siblings watched, proceeded to repeatedly karate chop Leo on the head, "YOU. Are NEVER. ALLOWED. To go ANYWHERE. ALONE. EVER. AGAIN!"
Leonardo winced, grimacing with each hit, although the chops possessed none of Mikey's true strength, and were mere love taps. However, he wasn't about to complain, the leader was more than happy to take whatever punishment they chose to dish out if it meant going home. "You. Got. It." He grunted, as the karate chops slowed, leaving Mikey to once again melt into the group hug.
The young leader leaned forward, smiling as he touched foreheads with his brothers, "I'm so sorry, guys," Leo eventually whispered, guilt and regret weighing down his words.
"We can talk about it when we get home," Donnie said, "for now, let's just focus on leaving."
Their leader gave a weary nod, and after just a few more moments relishing the feel of his family around him, Leonardo allowed his brothers to help him to his feet. Once standing, Leo swallowed back a wave of nausea that made him sway, but Raphael's strong arm held him steady. He didn't realize how tightly strung he was until the verdict granting him freedom allowed his tense muscles to relax. Now though, it was everything he could do to stay awake.
"My son,"
Leo fought the emotions that so wanted to make him crumple back into a little child, weeping in his father's lap like he used to do as a tot. Splinter seemed to sense this, as he always could, a sorrowful smile curving across the furry muzzle. Fuzzy paws cupped the young leader's cheeks, bringing the head down so to give an animalistic snuffle to the weary brow, sealed with a tender kiss. A choked sob rocked the broad shoulders, but Leonardo would not allow himself to break, at least not yet. Sapphire eyes met cobalt, and Splinter rubbed his forehead against his eldest child's, the rat growing teary eyed at their victory, and near loss.
"It is so good to have to back, my Leonardo."
A breath, a sigh of happiness, and the young leader felt the still tense muscles finally loosen, "It's good to be back, otou-san,"
"Leonardo?"
The blue warrior jolted, the sound of Glimmer's soft voice jarring him enough to fight off the fatigue still plaguing his mind. The princess stood nearby, hands fidgeting nervously, eyes downcast, but a smile on her face, "I was wondering, if it's alright with you, if I could meet your family?"
"Totally!" Michelangelo grinned, pushing his way to stand in front of the mermaid, "My name is Michelangelo, but my bros call me Mikey!"
A soft giggle drifted up from the mermaid, neon green eyes finally making an appearance to twinkle up at the youngest, "It's a pleasure."
"I'm Donatello," Donnie stated, pulling Leo's arm around his shoulders.
"And I'm Raphael," the brawler finished.
Glimmer nodded, awkwardly smiling at the introduction considering the circumstances, "I'm glad you came, and I'm happy that you were able to rescue Leonardo. It was never my intention…at least, I never…." The mermaid sighed, shaking he head fiercely, "What I mean to say is, it's good he can go home. He missed you terribly."
The younger siblings exchanged a smile, no doubt remembering the conversation they'd overheard without the princess' knowledge. "I was wondering," the mermaid continued, a blush coloring her face prettily, "since you are released, and you don't have to stay, if my brother is able to reform our old bylaws so to allow free travel…could I…may I….visit you?"
Shy green eyes looked up from under thick dark lashes, and Leo couldn't hold back his smile. However, he couldn't answer, unsure of what to say. Truthfully, he wanted to say yes, but wouldn't that count as a betrayal to his family? They went through so much to save his worthless shell, could he say he'd like to stay in touch with the princess? Raphael seemed to sense his leader's inner turmoil, accurately deducing the reasons behind it. With a smirk, the brawler reached into his belt pocket, pulling out the shell cell he'd kept on hand after he'd found it. Holding it out, Raph nodded at the princess.
"Here, this is Leo's shell cell, ya can call or send him messages on it."
Sapphire and green eyes both widened, one with gratitude, the other with shock. "Are you sure it's okay?" Leonardo asked, guilt at causing this mess still a weight in his stomach.
Raphael rolled his eyes, "Get that self-hatred look off yer face," he grumbled affectionately, gesturing with his hand for the mermaid to take the phone, "it's not like ya asked ta get kidnapped, ya were just tryin' ta save a Princess. I can't think of a single guy who wouldn't have done the same thing."
"Even you?" Leo joked softly, gaze softening in happiness.
"Even me," Raph chuckled, giving a nod of satisfaction when the princess finally took the shell cell, "especially me, even. You know I never walk away from a fight."
The siblings chuckled at their hothead's statement, Donnie shaking his head fondly at the brawler, "You got that right!" He said, rolling his eyes, before turning to the Princess, "Here, these buttons can call and these buttons can send messages. I'll be making an upgraded version of them in my lab pretty quick, so I'll send you Leo's new shell cell number once they're operational."
Glimmer held the phone close to her chest, holding it as if it were a cherished item, "Thank you," she smiled, slowly approaching the brothers, or more specifically Leonardo, "even though it was almost a disaster for you, I'm glad you came to the meadow that night, and I'm glad to have met you."
The mermaid's blush deepened, and the princess hesitated, before suddenly stretching up on her toes so to press a quick kiss to Leo's cheek. Stepping away, blush burning down to the tips of her ears, the princess gave another shy smile before scurrying away. Leo could tell by the way his brothers were smirking at him, and by the warmth spreading across his cheeks and searing his neck, that he probably had quite the blush as well. He was determined not to acknowledge it, however, his brothers had other ideas.
"Oooh! Leo's got a girlfriend!" Mikey sang.
"Not just any girlfriend," Donnie threw in mischievously, "a princess girlfriend."
"Faaaa-ncy," Raph drawled, a massive grin stretching across his face.
"Aw, come on, guys," Leo whined, feeling the blush increase in intensity, "it was just a kiss on the cheek, it doesn't mean anything."
"Maybe that kiss didn't," Michelangelo stated, waggling his eyebrows, "but I heard something about a different kiss, one between you and the princess?"
Leonardo's jaw dropped, the blush overtaking his face, turning it dark green, even as a helpless squeak escaped his lips. Master Splinter allowed himself a somewhat evil grin, approaching his eldest with a wink thrown at Michelangelo, "Indeed my son, I too would like to hear more about this kiss?"
"Uh….I, uh….it wasn't….um….!" Leo scrambled for an answer, but he couldn't find the words, and suddenly he felt that the ride home was going to be very long indeed, "Aw, shell!"
….
Several hours later, Donatello drove the battle shell down the back roads leading away from the Northamptons. In the passenger seat, Master Splinter held a tablet, headphones on his ears, as he watched an episode of his favorite show off a streaming service April had bought a membership for the aged rat at christmas. In the back, Leonardo was squished between Mikey and Raphael, all three sound asleep, with the leader snoring softly on Raph's shoulder. The truck was quiet, and the peaceful atmosphere hung in the air, making the drive feel almost surreal. However, the scientist was happy to report that this was definitely real, and best of all, they had accomplished their mission.
Adjusting the rearview mirror for a better look at the back bench, Donnie chuckled at the turtle pile wobbling precariously with every bump and turn. Mikey was sprawled across the leader, arms wrapped around him in a loose hold, while Raphael had his arm holding Leo snugly against his side. Their fearless leader wasn't long for this world, even upon reaching the submersible, sapphire eyes blinking heavily as fatigue weighed on is body. Despite the ribbing he was going to get for literal months to come, Leo was content to cuddle with his brothers, with nary a complaint for their teasing. Thankfully, he didn't seem to be distancing himself from them in a sick form of self punishment for his mistake. However, that didn't mean his family wouldn't keep an eye out, just in case.
Heaving a happy sigh heavy with intense relief, Donnie relaxed against the driver's seat, the road a winding asphalt snake before him. Once they got home, they'd have a talk, but everything would work out. Simply because they were family, and to quote a Disney alien, family means nobody gets left behind.
I hope you enjoyed this arc!
I think I'm going to take a break for the holidays. I'll get a couple more chapters out this month, but the week of thanksgiving and the week after thanksgiving, I'd like to take a break from writing.
Let's just say, those days I'll be spending a vacation with the person I love, and I want to give him my undivided attention.
Happy November everyone!