"L-Leo?"
I stare wide eyed at the newcomers. The speaker has one katana pointed at Sensei and I with the other at the ready by his side. The blue mask covering his eyes is a major indicator that this is indeed this universe's version of my big brother. Stormy blue eyes narrow at my question and he cocks his head. Movement from behind this younger and slightly smaller version of Leo pulls my attention. A red banded, toxic green eyed turtle steps around Leo and points a sai at me.
Raph.
"Answer Fearless's question, ya wannabe copy-cats. Who are you and how do you know our brother's name?"
Yup. Definitely Raph.
Master Splinter twitches and I glance up at him. While his face is stoic, there is amusement dancing in his eyes as Sensei studies these versions of my brothers. Probably seeing how much Leo and Raph seem to stay the same, even across universes.
"I am certain that the four of you already know the answer to that question," Master Splinter states and I turn my attention back to the other turtles.
Four?
Sure enough, as I shift my focus to behind Leo and Raph, a smaller version of me and Donnie are standing there. How I missed this other Donnie, seeing as he towers over his brothers, I don't know but other me doesn't even look to be five feet tall, so it's no wonder I couldn't see him. This just confirms that Sensei has super vision alongside his super hearing.
Tiny Leo's eye ridges furrow as he studies us while Tiny Raph narrows his eyes. Scrawny Donnie shuffles forward as reddish brown eyes flicker from me to Chichi.
"You're a Master Splinter and Michelangelo from a different dimension aren't you?"
Master Splinter nods and Mini Me squeezes between TL and TR. His sky blue eyes are wide and a massive grin forms on his face.
"Whoa! Really? That's so cool, dude! You guys look so different than those other us's that we met! Dudes, I think this Master Splinter is taller than our own!"
My lips quirk when Mini Me moves forward only for TL to catch his shoulder, holding him back with a shake of his head.
Guess it doesn't matter what universe we're in. Leo will always be cautious and protective.
My snout wrinkles when a dull ache starts pulsing behind my eyes. Adrenaline crash, here we come. Maybe Sensei and I can convince our doppelgangers to move this convo some place more comfortable? And preferably with a shower and a bed.
"Is he injured?"
My eyes snap open, unsure when they closed. Turning my head, I offer Tiny Donnie a tired smile.
"Nah, dude. Just hit a limit I didn't know I had."
Concern radiates from the four turtles before looking at Master Splinter. I shoot Sensei a look as he glances down at me. I offer him a smile, which he returns. He looks back at my inter-dimensional brothers.
"Michelangelo was very sick recently and has not been able to do this level of activity for a while. So, to suddenly go from fighting rogue ninjas then coming to this dimension and fighting your Foot Ninjas and your Kraang. His body has finally given out."
"I could still fight if needed," I mutter.
Master Splinter chuckles, shaking his head.
"I do not doubt that, my son. However, right at this moment, you do not need to. Right now, you need to. Right now, you need to rest and save your strength. Otherwise you will merely relapse."
Fighting the urge to pout, I merely nod. Sensei is right, as usual. If I'm to make sure I can help my bros when we get back to our New York then I can't risk falling sick again.
Maybe my chi will have replenished by then too, I think as I glance over at the smaller versions of my brothers and me tiredly.
Tiny Leo steps forward, sheathing his swords as he moves.
"I'm certain that our father would be more than willing to help supply you with anything you need. And Donnie here has quite a bit of medical knowledge as well, so he can take care of those cuts for you."
"Are you sure about this, Leo?" Tiny Raph asks, catching his blue-cladded brother by the shoulder in a gesture that I've seen my own Raphie use on our Leo all the time. "How do we know that these two ain't a trap? They just said they saw the Kraang! For all we know, the Kraang could have cloned us!"
Amusement courses through me as Tiny Raph speaks. Guess it doesn't matter the dimension, Raph will be suspicious of anyone while Leo will be cautiously helpful.
Mini Me suddenly leaps onto his Raph's shoulders and pokes his cheek.
"Dude, there's just no way that these two are clones made by the Kraang!" He grins widely as TR glares at him.
"Oh really? And why's that?"
Mini Me releases his brother and points to himself.
"Uh, because I would totally know, dude. I mean, I was totally right about April's mom being that weird Kraang-clone thingy and I was the one who managed to open that weird Kraang portal. I think we all know that if they were suspic`ious, I'd be the first to know."
My lips quirk at that. Apparently my and my brothers doppelgangers have some stories to share. Interesting.
TR rolls his eyes.
"All right, genius. If you're SO sure about being able to tell whether or not they're Kraang clones, then are they?"
Sensei and I exchange a look when Mini Me dances pass his brothers, daftly dodging Tiny Leo as he makes another grab for him. Mini Me sticks his tongue out at his eldest brother while this Leo purses his lips.
"Just…be cautious, Mikey."
"I tots got this, dude," Mini Me dismisses as he stops before me and Sensei.
Tapping his chin, Mini Me narrows sky blue eyes as he studies us. My vision blurs a little when a small, freckled face enters my space but he's gone before I can truly process what he is doing, he's gone. Little humming noises emit from this dimension's version of me and I can hear him circling around Sensei. I bite my lip to keep from giggling when he suddenly appears near Master Splinter's shoulder and by the way that Sensei's whiskers twitch, he's just as amused as I am.
"Well, Mikey?" Tiny Leo asks as he exchanges a look with his remaining two brothers.
Mini Me offers Sensei and I one last beaming smile before he turns and gives his brothers two thumbs up.
"They're A-okay, bros. No Kraang weirdness here."
Tiny Raph 'hmphs' while Tiny Leo and Tiny Donnie smile. TL walks forward and rubs the top of Mini Me's head then stops directly in front of us.
"If you'd like to follow us, we will take you to our sensei. I'm sure he'll be just as eager to hear what you have to say as we do."
"That would be wonderful, Leonardo. We thank you for your graciousness and willingness to help us."
Master Splinter inclines his head as I cough to cover a snicker as Tiny Leo nods, a bashful smile appearing on his face. Good ol' Leo. Always polite and proper. Even in a completely different dimension Big Brother will always keep a level head.
"And, luckily, I just restocked my medical supplies," Tiny Donnie states as the six of us start walking. "So, we'll have you fixed up in no time. Because, if you're anything like OUR Mikey, you probably hate being still for every long."
"I just got a lot of energy to burn, dude," Mini Me pipes in, appearing on TD's other side. "It's just how I was made, bro."
My lips quirk at the aspirated sigh of Tiny Donnie. Good. A Mikey wouldn't be a Mikey if he didn't annoy at least one brother a day. Stifling a yawn, I tilt my head enough to look up at Tiny Donnie.
"You know I do, dude. Just wait until I've got a good night sleep in."
"Oh, shell," Tiny Raph groans from somewhere ahead of us. "OUR Mikey is a handful; we don't need two!"
Snickering, I close my eyes as Sensei chuckles softly.
"Too late for that, dude."
Another groan is all I hear as Tiny Donnie and Mini Me giggle near my head. Pleased with myself, I allow myself to relax in Sensei's hold, only slightly surprised that Sensei hasn't set me down yet. It's not that Sensei isn't scary strong (he literally PUNCHED DOWN my metal bedroom door), but I'm sure it's quite awkward to hold me, with my shell and all that.
But hey, if I'm gonna get a free ride out of this, I might as well enjoy it. Not that I'm gonna tell anyone, but I do miss him just picking me up when I was Chibi Me. There is just something about being carried that I love and I'm not ashamed to say it. Besides. The longer the rest, the more energy I can build into figuring out how to get back home to help my bros.
My stomach churns at the thought of my brothers.
I can't help but be nervous every time I think about the last time I saw Leo and Donnie. The Fist ninjas were everywhere and the Shredder made an appearance! My bros are strong and their skills are unmatched but they had already been fighting for so long before reinforcements showed up.
My jaw clenches as the image of Fist ninjas jumping on Leo fills my mind.
What if Leatherhead and the doc didn't reach them in time? My snout wrinkles. No. I can't think like that. Leo and Donnie are trained warriors and so is Raph. They're gonna be just fine. We've defeated Shred-head once, I know my bros can hold their own against him until Chichi and I can reach them. And they have Casey and the Mutanimals on their side. They're gonna be fine. I just know it.
Shoving those thoughts from my mind, I idly listen to the soft conversation happening around me. Part of me can't help but be surprised on just how much I see myself and my brothers in these smaller versions of us. There are some aspects that tell me that these versions of us are quite a bit younger than my bros and I are now (outside of their smaller structure. Size isn't everything!). But, overall, it's like getting a glimpse of the past and just shows how far my bros and I have come. And just how far these four will go in the next few years.
My eye ridges furrow when a strange feeling a familiarity washes over me when Sensei suddenly pauses. For the most part, this area feels different than back home but there is just a sliver of warmth that home always has that tells me more about our location then my eyesight could ever do for me.
The faint sound of bricks shifting fills the space before we are moving once more. The warmth I was feeling out in the tunnels increases and my body automatically relaxes even more.
"Sensei," Tiny Leo calls out. "We're back."
"Ah, it is good to have you home, my sons. I hope your mission went well."
My eyes flicker open at this new voice. The accent, much like Chichi's, is heavily Japanese but his pitch is just a tad bit higher than Sensei's. Tilting my head, I spot a tall figure standing in a small kitchen off to our right. But that's about all I see from my position.
Time to be a big turtle and walk on my own.
Reaching up, I pat Sensei on the chest to gain his attention. Once Chichi looks down at me, I silently gesture to be put down. Master Splinter narrows his eyes briefly, studying my face. Probably to see if I can really stand on my own or if I'll run the risk of just collapsing once my feet hit the stone. I get it. It's a legitimate concern but doesn't mean I can't be a little dramatic. Widening my eyes, I plaster on my best smile, as if to say 'I'm Okay, Chichi. Honest'. After a beat, the hard look in Sensei's eyes softens and I know that I won.
Guess my bros aren't the only ones who can't resist my 'Puppy eyes' and charming 'Mikey Smile'.
"All right, my son," Master Splinter mutters with a sigh. "You win. However, do not overexert yourself."
"Hai, Sensei."
Gently, I'm placed back on my feet but Master Splinter keeps a gentle but firm grip on my shoulder. Welp. I just I'm allowed to stand on my own two feet but not go wondering around to see everything. You win some, you lose some. My legs ache as I shift to take in our new surroundings.
The small kitchen area is to our right and Tiny Leo is already making his way over to where the fall figure is standing. Directly in front of us is a TV pit similar to the one that we have at home. However, unlike our TV pit which has a large monolith of TVs stacked on each other, this TV pit holds only one single TV and instead of couches and chairs, it seems like there are benches belt right into the pit itself. Just before the kitchen to our right is a tire swing hover a pool of water. Just down the same hall as the kitchen there is a well-lit entrance leading into…something. Straight across from our current position I can see a few rows of doors which I can only assume leads to some bedrooms. Just before the stairs leading to the bedrooms is a pinball machine and what looks to be a homemade training dummy hanging from a metal frame. And off to our left is a set of large, military grade doors, very similar to what my Donnie has on his lab if he wants to keep us out. Or, if he's gonna work with explosives, but I promised that I wouldn't mention that to anyone, especially Leo.
My head tilts to the right as I take in this version of the lair. It's so strange on just how familiar all of this feels and yet is still completely foreign to me. Much like the rest of this New York, this lair is quite dark and not as brightly lit as back home. The only place that appears to be completely lit at all is the doorway off to our right. And I can only assume that space is their dojo as I have yet to see a space for a dojo anywhere. My eyes drift up and land on a set of spiraling wooden planks, almost like an old grand staircase but it looks like someone forgot the stairs and decided to stop halfway to the floor.
Soft footsteps drags my attention back to the right and I blink as a tall mutant brown, black, and white rat in a maroon robe walks toward us. Instantly, I can tell that this is this dimension's Master Splinter, even if the major clues of him being a mutant rat are right in front of me. But, deep down, I can just feel the same strong, yet tranquil chi that my own father possesses radiating from him. There are small differences, like if I were to close my eyes and focus directly on his and Chichi's chi I would still be able to tell who is who. But if I were to meet this version of my father on the street randomly, I wouldn't have a doubt in my mind who this guy is.
Pressing my fist into my palm, I bow slightly just as Chichi inclines his head. Other Master Splinter inclines his head as well and reaches up to stroke his own little beard.
"Leonardo has explained your predicament to me," Master Splinter states. "You are welcome to stay here with us and we shall do our best to help you return to your home in anyway possible. Donatello? Do you still have the spare cots set up in your lab?"
I bite my lip to keep from laughing when Tiny Donnie flinches a little. His Master Splinter lifts an eyebrow while Chichi and I exchange amused looks. Apparently our Don isn't the only one overly protective of his lab. Embarrassment colors Tiny Donnie's face as he clears his throat.
"Uh, yes, Sensei. The…The cots are still there."
Master Splinter hums.
"Good. Our guests shall use them until we can find them better accommodations." Master Splinter turns back toward us, his eyes flickering down to me then back up to Chichi. "If you are willing, I would be honored if you explain further on what exactly is going on and just how we can help you."
Chichi nods.
"I would be more than happy to explain our circumstances to you. However," Chichi pauses as he squeezes my shoulder gently. "I would ask for the chance to tend to my son's injuries first. Michelangelo has been quite sick and I do not want to risk him falling so ill again. I fear that his body would not be able to handle it."
Heat spreads across my cheeks as this dimension's versions of us all look at me. Concern flashes crosses all their faces and a troubled frown mars this slightly shorter Master Splinter's face. Trying to save myself too much embarrassment, I stare up at the other Master Splinter and offer him a sheepish smile.
"Though, I'm not feeling too bad right now," I say, chuckling nervously when Chichi squeezes my shoulder.
"You could barely stand when we ran into you!" Tiny Raph snaps, green eyes narrowing.
"Yeah, but that was like, right after two major fights and falling from the tunnel ceiling, dude. I've had at least ten minutes to chill since then. I might not be good to have a full-on brawl, but I'm not about to keel over anytime soon."
Master Splinter huffs out an almost chuckle and while there is still a troubled look in his eyes, at least his frown is replaced with an almost smile. So, I'll count that as a win. All the while Chichi looks about ready to nerve jab me. Another win.
"Yes, well, as I'm sure your sensei has told you, your body may feel all right at this moment, you push too hard and you shall be feeling the ramifications for days afterwards." Master Splinter turns toward Tiny Donnie. "The four of you were going to do a brief supply run before your mission today. Were you able to restock your medical supplies?"
Tiny Donnie nods and holds up his satchel.
"Hai, Sensei. I'm still missing a few items but the most important ones have been restocked with this last run."
"Very good," Master Splinter says before facing us once more. "You will be in good hands with Donatello and any supplies you need, please do not hesitate to ask. While you are here, you are family and family shall always help one another in this household. Once your Michelangelo is settled, we shall speak. Michelangelo, please prepare another two cups of tea for our guests. Raphael. I would like you to grab the spare cushions from the closet in your room and bring them to the dojo. As well as the extra blankets and pillows to the lab. Leonardo. I would like to know how your mission went as your brother helps our guests."
"Hai, Sensei," rings out from four different voices.
Tiny Donnie approaches me just as Mini Me and Tiny Raph rush off to do their assigned tasks. A small part of me pouts as I tilt my head back just a little to look up at this smaller version of my brainiac brother. Seriously? Are all versions of my purple-cladded brother gonna be taller than me? It's just not fair.
Tiny Donnie smiles nervously at me and places a hand on my shell.
"Uh, why don't we get you to the lab? That way we can start cleaning those cuts." He wrinkles his snout as we start walking. "We live in a sewer after all. All kinds of germs are just floating around in the air! And you have two open wounds!"
"Sure, dude. You're the doc," I say, flashing him a quick smile only to almost stumble over my own two feet. Tiny Donnie manages to catch me before I go down and his grip moves from my shell to my elbow. He frowns at me as his eye ridges furrow.
"And maybe get you sitting down. You look like you're about to just fall over."
I wave him off.
"Nah, dude. I was just testing how quick your reflexes are."
I wink at him and, instantly, Tiny Donnie's frown morphs into a wry smile.
"Right. And how did I do?"
"Passed with flying colors, bro!" I exclaim, giggling as we enter his lab and he steers me toward two cots that are closest to the door. "But I wouldn't expect anything less from any version of my bro, Donnie. You excel at everything you do."
Reddish brown eyes blink at me owlishly as I gingerly sit down on the cot. I keep my smile in place as Tiny Donnie's face slowly goes from green to red and he bashfully looks away.
"Ah, geez. I don't…" Tiny Donnie stammers as he turns toward some metal tables behind him and starts shifting through the contents, shoving stuff aside as he sets his satchel down. "I really don't…"
"Awe, don't be so modest, Donnie," I state, cutting him off. "If you're anything like my bro, and from the looks of this lab, you are, then you're a total genius. So, don't go undermining your potential, dude."
Tiny Donnie pauses with some medical supplies in his hands and looks at me over his shoulder. I meet his stare head on, smiling brightly but sincerely, as he studies me. After a beat, he chuckles and approaches me.
"You really are a Mikey from a different dimension. Always knowing just what to say."
My smile widens.
"Dude, of course! A Mikey ain't a Mikey if he isn't a cheerleader for his bros. Because a Mikey will always be his brothers' number one fan. And you better bet your shell we're gonna tell the whole world just how cool all of our brothers are."
Tiny Donnie tucks his chin as if to hide a smile as he starts cleaning my cuts. He finally looks up at me when I hiss as the wound on my cheek burns as he applies pressure to it.
"Sorry. And please, don't tell our Mikey that. He might actually go out of his way to get a cheerleading uniform from April and start wearing it."
"And what's wrong with that? I've worn one. They're surprising comfortable. Dresses too, but the extra fabric can kinda get in the way. But cheerleading uniforms are made for jumps and stuff like that."
Tiny Donnie groans and pinches the space between his eyes.
"I…didn't need to know that."
I just grin cheekily at him as Tiny Donnie resumes cleaning my cuts but I can see the amusement in his eyes.
Oh. This is gonna be great.
Don't worry, bros. Sensei and I are gonna help you as soon as possible. But, what's the harm of having a little fun while we're stuck here? I mean, it's not everyday a dimension gets to have TWO Mikeys running around. "L-Leo?"
I stare wide eyed at the newcomers. The speaker has one katana pointed at Sensei and I with the other at the ready by his side. The blue mask covering his eyes is a major indicator that this is indeed this universe's version of my big brother. Stormy blue eyes narrow at my question and he cocks his head. Movement from behind this younger and slightly smaller version of Leo pulls my attention. A red banded, toxic green eyed turtle steps around Leo and points a sai at me.
Raph.
"Answer Fearless's question, ya wannabe copy-cats. Who are you and how do you know our brother's name?"
Yup. Definitely Raph.
Master Splinter twitches and I glance up at him. While his face is stoic, there is amusement dancing in his eyes as Sensei studies these versions of my brothers. Probably seeing how much Leo and Raph seem to stay the same, even across universes.
"I am certain that the four of you already know the answer to that question," Master Splinter states and I turn my attention back to the other turtles.
Four?
Sure enough, as I shift my focus to behind Leo and Raph, a smaller version of me and Donnie are standing there. How I missed this other Donnie, seeing as he towers over his brothers, I don't know but other me doesn't even look to be five feet tall, so it's no wonder I couldn't see him. This just confirms that Sensei has super vision alongside his super hearing.
Tiny Leo's eye ridges furrow as he studies us while Tiny Raph narrows his eyes. Scrawny Donnie shuffles forward as reddish brown eyes flicker from me to Chichi.
"You're a Master Splinter and Michelangelo from a different dimension aren't you?"
Master Splinter nods and Mini Me squeezes between TL and TR. His sky blue eyes are wide and a massive grin forms on his face.
"Whoa! Really? That's so cool, dude! You guys look so different than those other us's that we met! Dudes, I think this Master Splinter is taller than our own!"
My lips quirk when Mini Me moves forward only for TL to catch his shoulder, holding him back with a shake of his head.
Guess it doesn't matter what universe we're in. Leo will always be cautious and protective.
My snout wrinkles when a dull ache starts pulsing behind my eyes. Adrenaline crash, here we come. Maybe Sensei and I can convince our doppelgangers to move this convo some place more comfortable? And preferably with a shower and a bed.
"Is he injured?"
My eyes snap open, unsure when they closed. Turning my head, I offer Tiny Donnie a tired smile.
"Nah, dude. Just hit a limit I didn't know I had."
Concern radiates from the four turtles before looking at Master Splinter. I shoot Sensei a look as he glances down at me. I offer him a smile, which he returns. He looks back at my inter-dimensional brothers.
"Michelangelo was very sick recently and has not been able to do this level of activity for a while. So, to suddenly go from fighting rogue ninjas then coming to this dimension and fighting your Foot Ninjas and your Kraang. His body has finally given out."
"I could still fight if needed," I mutter.
Master Splinter chuckles, shaking his head.
"I do not doubt that, my son. However, right at this moment, you do not need to. Right now, you need to. Right now, you need to rest and save your strength. Otherwise you will merely relapse."
Fighting the urge to pout, I merely nod. Sensei is right, as usual. If I'm to make sure I can help my bros when we get back to our New York then I can't risk falling sick again.
Maybe my chi will have replenished by then too, I think as I glance over at the smaller versions of my brothers and me tiredly.
Tiny Leo steps forward, sheathing his swords as he moves.
"I'm certain that our father would be more than willing to help supply you with anything you need. And Donnie here has quite a bit of medical knowledge as well, so he can take care of those cuts for you."
"Are you sure about this, Leo?" Tiny Raph asks, catching his blue-cladded brother by the shoulder in a gesture that I've seen my own Raphie use on our Leo all the time. "How do we know that these two ain't a trap? They just said they saw the Kraang! For all we know, the Kraang could have cloned us!"
Amusement courses through me as Tiny Raph speaks. Guess it doesn't matter the dimension, Raph will be suspicious of anyone while Leo will be cautiously helpful.
Mini Me suddenly leaps onto his Raph's shoulders and pokes his cheek.
"Dude, there's just no way that these two are clones made by the Kraang!" He grins widely as TR glares at him.
"Oh really? And why's that?"
Mini Me releases his brother and points to himself.
"Uh, because I would totally know, dude. I mean, I was totally right about April's mom being that weird Kraang-clone thingy and I was the one who managed to open that weird Kraang portal. I think we all know that if they were suspic`ious, I'd be the first to know."
My lips quirk at that. Apparently my and my brothers doppelgangers have some stories to share. Interesting.
TR rolls his eyes.
"All right, genius. If you're SO sure about being able to tell whether or not they're Kraang clones, then are they?"
Sensei and I exchange a look when Mini Me dances pass his brothers, daftly dodging Tiny Leo as he makes another grab for him. Mini Me sticks his tongue out at his eldest brother while this Leo purses his lips.
"Just…be cautious, Mikey."
"I tots got this, dude," Mini Me dismisses as he stops before me and Sensei.
Tapping his chin, Mini Me narrows sky blue eyes as he studies us. My vision blurs a little when a small, freckled face enters my space but he's gone before I can truly process what he is doing, he's gone. Little humming noises emit from this dimension's version of me and I can hear him circling around Sensei. I bite my lip to keep from giggling when he suddenly appears near Master Splinter's shoulder and by the way that Sensei's whiskers twitch, he's just as amused as I am.
"Well, Mikey?" Tiny Leo asks as he exchanges a look with his remaining two brothers.
Mini Me offers Sensei and I one last beaming smile before he turns and gives his brothers two thumbs up.
"They're A-okay, bros. No Kraang weirdness here."
Tiny Raph 'hmphs' while Tiny Leo and Tiny Donnie smile. TL walks forward and rubs the top of Mini Me's head then stops directly in front of us.
"If you'd like to follow us, we will take you to our sensei. I'm sure he'll be just as eager to hear what you have to say as we do."
"That would be wonderful, Leonardo. We thank you for your graciousness and willingness to help us."
Master Splinter inclines his head as I cough to cover a snicker as Tiny Leo nods, a bashful smile appearing on his face. Good ol' Leo. Always polite and proper. Even in a completely different dimension Big Brother will always keep a level head.
"And, luckily, I just restocked my medical supplies," Tiny Donnie states as the six of us start walking. "So, we'll have you fixed up in no time. Because, if you're anything like OUR Mikey, you probably hate being still for every long."
"I just got a lot of energy to burn, dude," Mini Me pipes in, appearing on TD's other side. "It's just how I was made, bro."
My lips quirk at the aspirated sigh of Tiny Donnie. Good. A Mikey wouldn't be a Mikey if he didn't annoy at least one brother a day. Stifling a yawn, I tilt my head enough to look up at Tiny Donnie.
"You know I do, dude. Just wait until I've got a good night sleep in."
"Oh, shell," Tiny Raph groans from somewhere ahead of us. "OUR Mikey is a handful; we don't need two!"
Snickering, I close my eyes as Sensei chuckles softly.
"Too late for that, dude."
Another groan is all I hear as Tiny Donnie and Mini Me giggle near my head. Pleased with myself, I allow myself to relax in Sensei's hold, only slightly surprised that Sensei hasn't set me down yet. It's not that Sensei isn't scary strong (he literally PUNCHED DOWN my metal bedroom door), but I'm sure it's quite awkward to hold me, with my shell and all that.
But hey, if I'm gonna get a free ride out of this, I might as well enjoy it. Not that I'm gonna tell anyone, but I do miss him just picking me up when I was Chibi Me. There is just something about being carried that I love and I'm not ashamed to say it. Besides. The longer the rest, the more energy I can build into figuring out how to get back home to help my bros.
My stomach churns at the thought of my brothers.
I can't help but be nervous every time I think about the last time I saw Leo and Donnie. The Fist ninjas were everywhere and the Shredder made an appearance! My bros are strong and their skills are unmatched but they had already been fighting for so long before reinforcements showed up.
My jaw clenches as the image of Fist ninjas jumping on Leo fills my mind.
What if Leatherhead and the doc didn't reach them in time? My snout wrinkles. No. I can't think like that. Leo and Donnie are trained warriors and so is Raph. They're gonna be just fine. We've defeated Shred-head once, I know my bros can hold their own against him until Chichi and I can reach them. And they have Casey and the Mutanimals on their side. They're gonna be fine. I just know it.
Shoving those thoughts from my mind, I idly listen to the soft conversation happening around me. Part of me can't help but be surprised on just how much I see myself and my brothers in these smaller versions of us. There are some aspects that tell me that these versions of us are quite a bit younger than my bros and I are now (outside of their smaller structure. Size isn't everything!). But, overall, it's like getting a glimpse of the past and just shows how far my bros and I have come. And just how far these four will go in the next few years.
My eye ridges furrow when a strange feeling a familiarity washes over me when Sensei suddenly pauses. For the most part, this area feels different than back home but there is just a sliver of warmth that home always has that tells me more about our location then my eyesight could ever do for me.
The faint sound of bricks shifting fills the space before we are moving once more. The warmth I was feeling out in the tunnels increases and my body automatically relaxes even more.
"Sensei," Tiny Leo calls out. "We're back."
"Ah, it is good to have you home, my sons. I hope your mission went well."
My eyes flicker open at this new voice. The accent, much like Chichi's, is heavily Japanese but his pitch is just a tad bit higher than Sensei's. Tilting my head, I spot a tall figure standing in a small kitchen off to our right. But that's about all I see from my position.
Time to be a big turtle and walk on my own.
Reaching up, I pat Sensei on the chest to gain his attention. Once Chichi looks down at me, I silently gesture to be put down. Master Splinter narrows his eyes briefly, studying my face. Probably to see if I can really stand on my own or if I'll run the risk of just collapsing once my feet hit the stone. I get it. It's a legitimate concern but doesn't mean I can't be a little dramatic. Widening my eyes, I plaster on my best smile, as if to say 'I'm Okay, Chichi. Honest'. After a beat, the hard look in Sensei's eyes softens and I know that I won.
Guess my bros aren't the only ones who can't resist my 'Puppy eyes' and charming 'Mikey Smile'.
"All right, my son," Master Splinter mutters with a sigh. "You win. However, do not overexert yourself."
"Hai, Sensei."
Gently, I'm placed back on my feet but Master Splinter keeps a gentle but firm grip on my shoulder. Welp. I just I'm allowed to stand on my own two feet but not go wondering around to see everything. You win some, you lose some. My legs ache as I shift to take in our new surroundings.
The small kitchen area is to our right and Tiny Leo is already making his way over to where the fall figure is standing. Directly in front of us is a TV pit similar to the one that we have at home. However, unlike our TV pit which has a large monolith of TVs stacked on each other, this TV pit holds only one single TV and instead of couches and chairs, it seems like there are benches belt right into the pit itself. Just before the kitchen to our right is a tire swing hover a pool of water. Just down the same hall as the kitchen there is a well-lit entrance leading into…something. Straight across from our current position I can see a few rows of doors which I can only assume leads to some bedrooms. Just before the stairs leading to the bedrooms is a pinball machine and what looks to be a homemade training dummy hanging from a metal frame. And off to our left is a set of large, military grade doors, very similar to what my Donnie has on his lab if he wants to keep us out. Or, if he's gonna work with explosives, but I promised that I wouldn't mention that to anyone, especially Leo.
My head tilts to the right as I take in this version of the lair. It's so strange on just how familiar all of this feels and yet is still completely foreign to me. Much like the rest of this New York, this lair is quite dark and not as brightly lit as back home. The only place that appears to be completely lit at all is the doorway off to our right. And I can only assume that space is their dojo as I have yet to see a space for a dojo anywhere. My eyes drift up and land on a set of spiraling wooden planks, almost like an old grand staircase but it looks like someone forgot the stairs and decided to stop halfway to the floor.
Soft footsteps drags my attention back to the right and I blink as a tall mutant brown, black, and white rat in a maroon robe walks toward us. Instantly, I can tell that this is this dimension's Master Splinter, even if the major clues of him being a mutant rat are right in front of me. But, deep down, I can just feel the same strong, yet tranquil chi that my own father possesses radiating from him. There are small differences, like if I were to close my eyes and focus directly on his and Chichi's chi I would still be able to tell who is who. But if I were to meet this version of my father on the street randomly, I wouldn't have a doubt in my mind who this guy is.
Pressing my fist into my palm, I bow slightly just as Chichi inclines his head. Other Master Splinter inclines his head as well and reaches up to stroke his own little beard.
"Leonardo has explained your predicament to me," Master Splinter states. "You are welcome to stay here with us and we shall do our best to help you return to your home in anyway possible. Donatello? Do you still have the spare cots set up in your lab?"
I bite my lip to keep from laughing when Tiny Donnie flinches a little. His Master Splinter lifts an eyebrow while Chichi and I exchange amused looks. Apparently our Don isn't the only one overly protective of his lab. Embarrassment colors Tiny Donnie's face as he clears his throat.
"Uh, yes, Sensei. The…The cots are still there."
Master Splinter hums.
"Good. Our guests shall use them until we can find them better accommodations." Master Splinter turns back toward us, his eyes flickering down to me then back up to Chichi. "If you are willing, I would be honored if you explain further on what exactly is going on and just how we can help you."
Chichi nods.
"I would be more than happy to explain our circumstances to you. However," Chichi pauses as he squeezes my shoulder gently. "I would ask for the chance to tend to my son's injuries first. Michelangelo has been quite sick and I do not want to risk him falling so ill again. I fear that his body would not be able to handle it."
Heat spreads across my cheeks as this dimension's versions of us all look at me. Concern flashes crosses all their faces and a troubled frown mars this slightly shorter Master Splinter's face. Trying to save myself too much embarrassment, I stare up at the other Master Splinter and offer him a sheepish smile.
"Though, I'm not feeling too bad right now," I say, chuckling nervously when Chichi squeezes my shoulder.
"You could barely stand when we ran into you!" Tiny Raph snaps, green eyes narrowing.
"Yeah, but that was like, right after two major fights and falling from the tunnel ceiling, dude. I've had at least ten minutes to chill since then. I might not be good to have a full-on brawl, but I'm not about to keel over anytime soon."
Master Splinter huffs out an almost chuckle and while there is still a troubled look in his eyes, at least his frown is replaced with an almost smile. So, I'll count that as a win. All the while Chichi looks about ready to nerve jab me. Another win.
"Yes, well, as I'm sure your sensei has told you, your body may feel all right at this moment, you push too hard and you shall be feeling the ramifications for days afterwards." Master Splinter turns toward Tiny Donnie. "The four of you were going to do a brief supply run before your mission today. Were you able to restock your medical supplies?"
Tiny Donnie nods and holds up his satchel.
"Hai, Sensei. I'm still missing a few items but the most important ones have been restocked with this last run."
"Very good," Master Splinter says before facing us once more. "You will be in good hands with Donatello and any supplies you need, please do not hesitate to ask. While you are here, you are family and family shall always help one another in this household. Once your Michelangelo is settled, we shall speak. Michelangelo, please prepare another two cups of tea for our guests. Raphael. I would like you to grab the spare cushions from the closet in your room and bring them to the dojo. As well as the extra blankets and pillows to the lab. Leonardo. I would like to know how your mission went as your brother helps our guests."
"Hai, Sensei," rings out from four different voices.
Tiny Donnie approaches me just as Mini Me and Tiny Raph rush off to do their assigned tasks. A small part of me pouts as I tilt my head back just a little to look up at this smaller version of my brainiac brother. Seriously? Are all versions of my purple-cladded brother gonna be taller than me? It's just not fair.
Tiny Donnie smiles nervously at me and places a hand on my shell.
"Uh, why don't we get you to the lab? That way we can start cleaning those cuts." He wrinkles his snout as we start walking. "We live in a sewer after all. All kinds of germs are just floating around in the air! And you have two open wounds!"
"Sure, dude. You're the doc," I say, flashing him a quick smile only to almost stumble over my own two feet. Tiny Donnie manages to catch me before I go down and his grip moves from my shell to my elbow. He frowns at me as his eye ridges furrow.
"And maybe get you sitting down. You look like you're about to just fall over."
I wave him off.
"Nah, dude. I was just testing how quick your reflexes are."
I wink at him and, instantly, Tiny Donnie's frown morphs into a wry smile.
"Right. And how did I do?"
"Passed with flying colors, bro!" I exclaim, giggling as we enter his lab and he steers me toward two cots that are closest to the door. "But I wouldn't expect anything less from any version of my bro, Donnie. You excel at everything you do."
Reddish brown eyes blink at me owlishly as I gingerly sit down on the cot. I keep my smile in place as Tiny Donnie's face slowly goes from green to red and he bashfully looks away.
"Ah, geez. I don't…" Tiny Donnie stammers as he turns toward some metal tables behind him and starts shifting through the contents, shoving stuff aside as he sets his satchel down. "I really don't…"
"Awe, don't be so modest, Donnie," I state, cutting him off. "If you're anything like my bro, and from the looks of this lab, you are, then you're a total genius. So, don't go undermining your potential, dude."
Tiny Donnie pauses with some medical supplies in his hands and looks at me over his shoulder. I meet his stare head on, smiling brightly but sincerely, as he studies me. After a beat, he chuckles and approaches me.
"You really are a Mikey from a different dimension. Always knowing just what to say."
My smile widens.
"Dude, of course! A Mikey ain't a Mikey if he isn't a cheerleader for his bros. Because a Mikey will always be his brothers' number one fan. And you better bet your shell we're gonna tell the whole world just how cool all of our brothers are."
Tiny Donnie tucks his chin as if to hide a smile as he starts cleaning my cuts. He finally looks up at me when I hiss as the wound on my cheek burns as he applies pressure to it.
"Sorry. And please, don't tell our Mikey that. He might actually go out of his way to get a cheerleading uniform from April and start wearing it."
"And what's wrong with that? I've worn one. They're surprisingly comfortable. Dresses too, but the extra fabric can kinda get in the way. But cheerleading uniforms are made for jumps and stuff like that."
Tiny Donnie groans and pinches the space between his eyes.
"I…didn't need to know that."
I just grin cheekily at him as Tiny Donnie resumes cleaning my cuts but I can see the amusement in his eyes.
Oh. This is gonna be great.
Don't worry, bros. Sensei and I are gonna help you as soon as possible. But, what's the harm of having a little fun while we're stuck here? I mean, it's not everyday a dimension gets to have TWO Mikeys running around.
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Hello everyone!
Here was chapter 24! Sorry for the wait. Some personal stuff happened the last two weeks (nothing bad promise) and it's just made writing kinda hard. But, with some of it worked out, I finally managed to write this chapter! It's kinda slow and I really hope I got the personality of the 2012 turtles and sensei correct (and kudos to all who knew instantly which turtles these were!).
I will admit, it was kinda weird writing two Master Splinters XD. But also kinda fun! I'm hoping to get one more chapter up before May, so wish me luck on that XD.
And to everyone following my story and commenting, thank you so much! I do read all the comments. I wish that there was an easy way to respond to comments on like on AO3, but I haven't found one yet. So, if you have a direct question that you want me to answer, maybe try on AO3 ( ). I read all the comments and respond to them on there.
Also, I'm a little curious. Would you guys like a way to be able to see when I'm gonna update? Such as like my twitter or something? I'm willing do some sort of social for you guys just so if I don't upload for a while I can at least let you guys know that I'm not abandoning this story. If not, that's fine :) I'm just curious on how you guys would feel about that. I don't want to have 'Auther Chapters' because that's just a personal feeling of mine. I just don't want to clutter the story with random chapters that are just updates, ya know?
Anywho's, sorry for rambling for so long. Thank you for reading! And I'll see you in the next chapter!
