Hello everyone!
Long time no see! I am so sorry that this story hasn't been updated in such a long time. I don't really have an excuse, only that other muses started screaming at me for attention as you probably saw with the Curse of the Cute One and Sleepwalking and then, another one based not the 1987 reared it's head because I've been playing Shredder's Revenge which got me curious about the 1987 version and it was just a huge rabbit hole. Hopefully this chapter was worth the wait as it kept giving me some writers block but I like how it turned out in the end ."
I will apologize if there are more errors than usual in this one. I wrote it on my phone for the most part but Word was acting strange and I couldn't use auto-correct because it kept adding random letters to certain words or randomly squishing words together, so I just disabled almost everything just so I could write without too much frustration. I do go back and re-read my chapters and fix errors but I usually wait a little bit so that I have a fresh perspective. So, I'm sorry if some stuff is incorrect.
And to everyone who is still with me on this story, I truly appreciate you and your support on this story and all the other ones I am working on right now. It means so much to, like I don't even think you all know how much it means to me, reading all of your sweet comments. So, truly, thank you all! You have been my motivation to not just up and abandon this or any of my stories to just start others. Hasn't stopped me from starting others, but you all have certainly kept me from just stopping this story, which I'm thankful for because I want and will finish this!
Also, to anyone on who is following this story, the edits I make mainly happen on because it's just easier for me to update there, so if you want a more updated, more error free version, hope on over there. My username is TheKeybladeMaster1994, so if you see it under any other name on there, which hopefully it isn't, that isn't the official one. Also, this story is only currently on FF and AO3. Not saying that anyone would, but it happens, so if you see any stories written under this name or my AO3 that have been posted under a different name, please let me know.
But enough from me!
Happy reading!
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Groggy awareness pulls me from my semi-blissful dreamland. Blurry-eyed, I sit up, rubbing my face as thoughts a tutu wearing Raphie and Leo dance through my mind, kicking Foot robots as they twirl and plié. Donnie is also there, flying on one of his T-bots while wearing a white lab coat and goggles, screaming "For SCIENCE!" as he lasers down a Godzilla-size Shredder. What happens after that is jumbled in my brain at the moment as I slide out of bed.
Wobbling slightly, I barely register that the door is ajar as I pad out into the cool and quiet lair.
Everything is dark with only a dim light coming from the kitchen and dojo as I hop down the stairs, one step at a time, mindful of the way my body protests at the slight movement.
When did the stairs get so wide?
Pushing that question from my mind, (I'll deal with it later) I make my way into the bathroom. My bladder is screaming at me now that I'm up and moving. I work on autopilot, standing on my tippy-toes to flush the toilet before turning to the sink. In my barely awake state, I frown as I realize the counter is far too high for me to reach and there is no stool in sight.
I bet Raphie moved the sink up. He's such a meanie.
Pouting, I leave the bathroom. Grumbling about rude older brothers. The sound of someone moving about in the kitchen draws me in, happy that I don't have to climb our too big stairs to wake Raph up.
It's too early to run around the lair while an angry Raphie chases me. Even if he deserves to get a water balloon to the face for raising the sink.
" Chichi," I whine softly, rubbing my eyes as I cross the threshold. I walk over to the brown robe and twitching pink tail. "Raphie moved the sink up and now I'm too short to reach and I need to wash my hands. Can you help me, please?"
My hand fists the robe once I'm close enough, tugging lightly on the cloth as I talk causing all movement above me to cease. There is a brief pause and I can feel a fatherly gaze staring down at me as a slim hand rubs the top of my head. With my eyes mostly closed, I lift my hands up, opening and closing them in a grabby motion, indicating I want to be picked up.
A quiet chuckle answers me and warm hands lift me under my arms. Once I'm resting against a hip, I lean forward and bury my face into a warm and furry shoulder, petting at the exposed fur as I listen to the steady and strong heartbeat under my ear. Once I'm resting against a hip, I lean forward and bury my face into a warm and furry shoulder. I pet exposed fur as I listen to the steady and strong heartbeat under my ear.
"Certainly, my child. Let us wash your hands."
I nod, not caring as I'm taken over to the sink in the kitchen. When we stop, I go ragdoll mode. My body too wrung out to do much else as I'm shifted around. The counter of the sink presses into my plastron as a knee presses against my butt and tail, keeping me in place. Soap is pumped into my hands when I automatically hold them out. Once rinsed and dried, I am replaced onto a hip once more.
Take that Raphie.
"There. All better?" a soft voice asks, chuckling.
Nodding, my head drops onto the soft shoulder as quiet humming fills the air.
The clinking of mugs tells me that tea is getting made and the strong aroma tells me that it's almost ready. The multiple clinks has me wondering who else is possibly up at this hour who likes tea. I'm stumped. My brain is working on all cylinders until my mind whispers that Leo gets up at the crack of dawn to meditate and get extra training in.
Overachiever, I think with a tired smile as a tray is filled with drinkware. I crack an eye open as three mugs are placed at respectable distance before a smaller cup filled with milk is placed in the middle.
When the tray is lifted, I reclose my eyes and just soak in the security radiating around me as we exit the kitchen. I shiver a little at the cool air from the larger space of the lair. Curling my arms under me, I bury my head further into the soft fur and I feel the vibrations of another chuckle against my cheek. The slight rocking of his movement has me dozing lightly, enjoying the feeling of not being alone. My eyes scrunch when a sudden warm, brighter light hits my face and quickly replaces the dimness of the rest of the lair.
My lips twitch into a frown as 2 other voices filter into the quiet, one familiar voice standing out clearly. None of which are the voice of my eldest brother, who should be up by now to have tea with Chichi.
Wait…Chichi?
Sluggishly, I sit up, ignoring how my sides protest, and rub the haze from my eyes as I glance over at the voices. A maroon blob and an emerald blob come into view and I blink a few times in both confusion and to clear my vision. The two blobs turn toward us and I hear a fond sigh followed by another, deeper chuckle.
"Oh, Michelangelo. I cannot leave you for a moment, can I?" Chichi's voices comments and the emerald blob approaches as I squint at them. "I apologize Splinter-sensei. I thought he would sleep longer. C'mere, Watashi no nikkō. Allow Splinter-sensei to use both of his hands to carry his tray."
"What?" I ask groggily, glancing from the emerald blob to the being holding me.
Warm light brown eyes stare back from a face covered in grey fur and large white bushy eyebrows cock up in amusement.
Alarm shoots through me as my eyes widen, all traces of sleep gone.
This isn't Chichi!
Heat spreads across my face as I splutter, leaning further back.
"I-I…I'm…" I stammer, embarrassment swirling in my chest as Chichi lifts me out of smaller Master Splinter's hold. "I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to!"
I hide my face in Chichi's shoulder, completely mortified and no longer tired.
Oh, Silver Sentry! I can't believe that I just did that! How did I not know that Splinter-sensei wasn't my chichi? They're so different! They don't even sound the same!
"Oh, Michelangelo. You silly little turtle."
My fingers dig into my father's robes as he rubs small circles on my shell, chuckling as he kisses my temple.
Shell. This is tots embarrassing.
"I'm really sorry, Sensei," I mutter again, peeking out at the smaller rat mutant.
A soft chuckle comes from the smaller rat sensei and there is a dull clank as he places the tray down.
"There is nothing to be sorry for, Michelangelo. Your father already told Hamato-sensei and myself that you might come down disoriented while in this form. And I certainly did not mind helping you out. It allowed me to experience something that I haven't in many years."
Wait, what? Form? What form?
My thoughts swirl in confusion and I glance down. Pudgy arms and legs stare back. I sag against Chichi as I swallow a whine.
Shell. I'm chibi-me again! First I didn't notice it's Splinter-sensei and now I didn't even notice I'm tiny again! This isn't fair.
At least I'm not sick, I guess, I think tiredly, rubbing my cheek against the soft cloth I'm clinging to.
I peek out at Splinter-sensei as his footsteps catch my attention. I straighten in my father's hold as the smaller master approaches us, a mug of tea in one hand and the cup of milk in the other. I mutter a thanks as I take the glass with both hands. I frown as my arms tremble a little but I manage to keep a solid grip as Chichi takes his own drink, bowing his head in thanks. I keep my eyes forward as Chichi walks back over to where the other two masters are now sitting down on their cushions.
Chichi sits cross-legged as the other two senseis kneel and he places me comfortably in his lap. Part of me, now that I'm more awake, is mortified that I'm being treated as a child, sitting in my father's lap. Especially in front of these other versions of my father. But the other part of me? Is just too tired and achy to care and I'm enjoying the security and safety that I'm currently surrounded in. And…well…it's nice. Something I haven't quite felt since before Chichi and I were kicked through that portal.
I finish my glass and Chichi takes it from me as I go to rub my eyes again. A frown tugs at my lips again as my fist touches skin. Confused, I poke around my face when it finally clicks in my head.
My eyes widen.
My mask! Did I leave it on the rooftop? I hope not!
Worrying my bottom lip, different worse case scenarios filter through my mind on just who might find my mask. And none of them end happily for this world's Hamato family.
What if this world has an Agent Bishop? And if so, what if my and Mini Me's DNA is similar to this world's Mikey and we'll get this family in trouble?
"Michelangelo."
I glance over to Master Splinter as he lowers his drink. He smiles at me.
"If you are wondering where your mask is, Donatello grabbed it after I picked up Michelangelo. He gave it to this world's Donatello. It is currently in the process of being….cleaned."
I flinch at the reminder of WHY I'm not wearing my mask. Fiddling with my fingers, I peer up at my other-dimensional father.
"And, uh, how is the little guy doing?" I ask quietly as guilt hits me hard.
I haven't even gone to see Mini Me since we got here. Pretty much after my mental breakdown in the bedroom, Chichi had me lay down and I was out like a light.
I don't even think I ate at all last night.
I press a hand over my stomach, expecting it to grumble. When it doesn't, I glare down at it.
The sound of a mug being placed down drags me from my musing and I glance up as Master Splinter stands. His eyes are soft as he smiles down at me.
"Would you like to see for yourself? I was about to go check on him before meditating."
Hesitating for a second, I shoot Chichi a look. My father merely smiles down at me. He then gestures toward Master Splinter with his head. Turning back to the slightly smaller version of my father, I nod.
"Yes, please."
A squeak slips from my lips when I'm suddenly lifted into the air by Chichi and held out for Master Splinter to take. Embarrassment filters through me again as the slightly older rat chuckles and accepts me into his arms.
"I…I can walk, Sensei," I mumble, not making eye contact with Chichi as Master Splinter starts walking.
The wizened master chuckles and I swear I hear Chichi and Splinter-sensei also chuckle as we exit the dojo before continuing to talk. The one thing I don't need right now is the feeling of amusement now swirling around in the air from all these Splinters.
"I have no doubt in my mind that you can, little one," Master Splinter says softly as he glances down at me as I shiver when we enter the main part of the lair. "However, we can still see that you are very tired. And the more you rest, the better you shall feel." A mischievous look appears on once-human's face. "And, well, it has been quite sometime since I have carried a little one in my arms and I think your father knew that."
I look up at that comment before ducking my head when I meet Master Splinter's amused but gentle gaze.
Shell. How can I refuse when he gives me that look? Isn't it against the law or something for parents to give the kids the 'Puppy-dog eyes'? Because that's not fair.
I drop my eyes to the floor.
"I mean…If you're okay with it, Sensei," I mumble, fiddling with the seam of his robe. "I don't mind."
More amusement wafts from the older mutant at my admission but he doesn't respond as we enter the lab area. My eyes flicker around, soaking everything in the dimly lit space. This lab, while not as big as Tiny Donnie's is just as cram-packed and holds a lot of similarities to my Donnie's lab, including many of the equipment scattered about. Many I instantly recognize from my Donnie's lab. Even the beeps sound the same!
My fingers dig into Master Splinter's robes as the ache in my chest blooms once more. Swallowing down the hurt, I force my gaze to skim over the rest of the equipment before they land on the cot along the wall.
My heart drops to my stomach at the sight of the reason why I'm in here in the first place.
Mini Me looks so much younger just laying there. His mask has been removed and the bright fabric is resting on a chair along with his belt and my broken nunchaku. His freckles stand out so much on his slightly paler green skin, still a little too light compared to his normal coloring. There is an IV drip attached to his left hand with some tape holding it in place. Its bag is filled with clear liquid, so he must be done with his blood transfusion and on a regular IV drip now.
Movement along the wall catches my attention and I can't help but smile at the sweet scene displayed on the cot.
Tiny Donnie is curled up against Mini Me's side, his own mask hanging around his neck as he rests his cheek on Mini Me's shoulder. He shifts a little and that's when I spot his slightly larger hand grasping his little brother's IV free hand. The clasped hands clutched to his chest.
Almost like cuddling a teddy bear.
A soft snort pulls me from the injured turtle's cot to one a little further in. I bite my lip to keep from giggling. Tiny Leo and Tiny Raph are curled up together on the other cot with Tiny Leo's cheek resting on top of Tiny Raph's head and his arms are in a loose embrace around the slightly shorter turtle. The resident hothead has both arms wrapped tightly around his older brother in contrast, legs wrapped securely around one of Tiny Leo's. Both are missing their masks like their youngest brother and Tiny Raph gives another soft snort before snuggling closer to Tiny Leo, whose grip tightens in response to the movement.
"Donatello would not allow me to remove his mask last night," Master Splinter mutters softly to me as he walks further in. "He was the last of the four to fall asleep. Wanting to make sure that Michelangelo's vitals were stable and strong." The two of us stop right next to Mini Me's bed and Master Splinter fixes the corner of the blanket that has flipped up before moving to stroke his two youngest sons' faces. "The older Donatello did a wonderful job of getting everything Michelangelo needed ready and even walked my Donatello through medical practices that he has only read about. Now, all Michelangelo needs is to rest and healing." Master Splinter's hands flex on me as he stares down at the bed. "And I believe that he and his brothers have much to discuss once my youngest is strong enough."
I wince.
Oh yeah. Master Splinter was right there while I was talking to Mini Me to keep him awake. But…it's not really my place to say what we talked about. Mini Me told me all of that stuff in confidence and while I'm willing to allude that a talk needs to happen, I'm not going to say what exactly the talk needs to be about.
"Michelangelo."
Jumping, I glance up and meet the larger mutant's eyes. Master Splinter studies me, a tiny smile forming as he shakes his head.
"Michelangelo," he says softly. "I do not expect you to tell me what exactly my youngest needs to say to his older brothers. Although, I do have a pretty good idea of what it could be about." Warm eyes flicker back down to the forms on the bed. "I have been lucky enough to have instilled some trust with my youngest. And he and I have chatted about many things that bother him. I know it is never everything. Michelangelo does not like to place all of his burdens on anyone. Wanting to be that safe guard between his loved ones and keeping them happy. So much so that he tends to place his happiness on the back burner. And not always in a healthy way."
Oof. That hits a little too close to home.
I bite my bottom lip as I also shoot the sleeping forms a glance.
I used to do the same thing. I know that I still do it, just not to the same degree anymore. My bros got after me about always putting others first, literally cornering me so that I couldn't run away so we could discuss it. It was emotional and hard. But was something I really needed and something my bros also needed. Because not only did it let me see my destructive behavior, it allowed me to express to my bros just how exactly I was feeling about how they treat me. Something that I know that Mini Me needs to discuss with his own brothers.
My eyes drift over to the other cot, specifically landing on the resident hothead. It's obvious that he cares about his youngest bro, contrary to what some of his words seem to imply. He wouldn't have reacted so harshly against Mini Me's attacker if he didn't care about him. But, if he is anything like my Raph, and he's shown that they do have similar traits, then he needs someone to bluntly tell him that his words hurt. And that someone needs to be Mini Me. It took that sit down with my bros to finally get it across to Raph that some of his jabs at my intelligence has been hurting a lot more and I had even asked him what his truly thought about my abilities as a ninja and part of the team. Overall, while awkward and upsetting at first, I'm glad it happened and I really hope Mini Me finds the same closure that I did.
My fingers flex on the maroon fabric in my fists.
"Will all of them be all right?" I whisper, peering up at the ninja master. "Was anyone else injured?"
Master Splinter smiles as he moves over to place the blanket that got kicked to the floor back on top of his eldest two.
"Outside of cuts and scrapes, my oldest three are unharmed." A sly gaze has me ducking my head again. "You did a wonderful job last night in protecting my children and I cannot express how grateful I am for it. Providing them with weapons and even going so far as to give up one of your own so that they can protect themselves. I was not lying when I said that you have given me a glimpse of what a wonderful young adult my Michelangelo will turn out to be." A wistful look morphs onto the older mutant's face. "And this Michelangelo here has also given me hope on how my child will turn out to be. And how the relationship between my eldest two will gradually get better with age."
My lips quirk into a tiny smile.
"Yeah, even my Raph and Leo chilled out," I say giggling. "Took Leo leaving for 2 years and getting turtlenapped but they still got there."
Alarm flashes on Master Splinter's face and I mentally wince. Whoops. Maybe I shouldn't have brought that up. Between figuring out Mini Me is more than likely their universe's Ultimate Weapon and then having to save said youngest from bleeding out, I'm sure this slightly older Sensei doesn't need the added heart attack of knowing his eldest might get turtlenapped after being gone for 2 years.
A dry chuckle slips from the older mutant as he rubs both Tiny Raph's and Tiny Leo's head before turning and moving further into the lab.
"I was hoping that my sons' misadventures would end when they reached 18 but that might be asking too much." Master Splinter shakes his head as we stop near a basin filled with liquid. "My sons live to turn my fur grey before its time."
I giggle as I peer down at the pinkish liquid.
"Gotta keep you on your toes, Sensei. We wouldn't be very good sons if we were angels all the time." I start for the liquid, reaching for the largest bubble. "What's in here?"
A firm hand catches my wrist, halting my movement before gently pulling me away.
"I would not touch that, Michelangelo," Master Splinter states softly. "That is the solution that Donatello is using to clean your mask. I merely wanted to show you that it is still in the process of being cleaned."
The moment Master Splinter tells me what the basin is filled with I clasp my hands together and press them against my plastron. Yeah, shell no. Definitely not touching that.
My stomach squeezes at just how pink the water is. Now thankful that all I have is milk in my system, I turn away from the basin.
"Oh, uh, thanks, Sensei. But I think I can wait a little longer for my mask to be finished getting cleaned. Appreciate it though. Will have to tell this world's Donnie 'thanks' as well."
Amused understanding wafts from the ninja master and he turns away, heading back for the entrance of the lab. He rubs my shell as I curl into his shoulder.
"Michelangelo is going to be just fine, Michelangelo," Master Splinter mutters and I nod, frowning. "And he will be up and bouncing around in no time. No matter how much me and his brothers will insist that he takes it easy."
I nod again, not really sure what to say, as we exit the lab. I just hope that the little dude takes his downtime as a chance to chat with his bros. Unfortunately, I think he will have the best bet on getting all of his bros to listen while he's still healing. I'm afraid that if his bros blow him off, he's not gonna try again. And he needs to get this off his chest.
And Mini Me doesn't need that after all of this, I think tiredly, rubbing at my eyes as Master Splinter continues walking.
Just as we enter the main area, a loud rumble emits from my stomach. Heat spreads across my face as I press a hand to my stomach, shooting Master Splinter a sheepish smile. Mirth dances in his dark eyes and a soft smile appears on his face.
"Come, little one. Let us get you something to eat." Master Splinter angles himself toward the kitchen. "Your father mentioned that you did not wake for supper last night, so I can only imagine how hungry you must be." He glances at me sideways. "Especially if your appetite is anything like my own Michelangelo's."
Patting my stomach, I shoot this other version of my father a grin.
"We're growing turtles, Sensei! It takes a lot of energy to grow big and strong!"
The soft laugh that quip gains me is enough to warm my chest and a sense of accomplishment fills me. I always take pride in getting my own father to laugh so managing to get another version of him to laugh is amazing.
The soft sound of movement catches my attention as the two of us enter the kitchen and my eyes widen as I spot this world's Leonardo standing in front of the stove. Master Splinter pauses as the turtle in blue suddenly lifts his head.
"Oh! Good morning, Ma--" Leonardo's words die on his lips as he turns toward us. His brown eyes widen as we make eye contact.
Heat spreads across my face and a weird mixture of guilt and embarrassment squirms in my chest as the alternate version of my brother gawks at me. Feeling strange and out of place, I turn my face away, curling into Master Splinter.
"Wha-Who?" Leo stammer out and I hear him take a step forward.
"It is not polite to stare, Leonardo," Master Splinter scolds softly as he continues into the kitchen. "We are merely in here to prepare some food for Michelangelo before we return to the dojo. If you would care to join us, your father already has some tea ready. Where do you keep your cereal?"
Leonardo blinks at the two of us, obviously bewildered. I peer at him from the corner of my eye when he doesn't answer the other mutant right away. His face colors as he realizes that Master Splinter just lectured him about staring and he turns away, clearing his throat.
"Uh, oh. Our…Our cereal is up here," Leonardo states lamely and I can't help but snicker at how uncomposed this Leo is being. I'm pretty sure my Leo had the exact same expression on his face when he and my other bros barged into my room the last time I was this size.
My mood dampens at that thought and I quickly focus on the soft fabric under my fingers as Master Splinter moves further into the kitchen. I hear the clink of a bowl being placed onto the counter and the tinkling of cereal filling said bowl. Master Splinter moves over to the fridge and opens it, cool air hitting me. Shivering, I curl into Master Splinter.
Why is it so cold in here?
"Leonardo, would you please hold Michelangelo for me? I will need both hands to prepare his breakfast."
"O-Oh. Yeah. Certainly."
Excuse me?!
My eyes widen and I glance up at Master Splinter. What is he doing? Why hand me off to this Leo? He knows I can walk just fine!
Heart pounding, I squirm as Leonardo reaches out to take me. Images of my Leo flash in my mind, causing my stomach to twist.
Don't freak out. Don't freak out.
Large, warm hands gently grasp me, callused from years of sword training, plucking me from the older mutant's grasp. I swallow thickly as Leonardo rests me on his hip, my heart pounding as I try to keep from becoming an absolute mess of a turtle. He offers me a smile that I try to return but it feels more like a grimace so I glance away as he passes a bowl to Master Splinter.
"How are you feeling today, Mikey?" Leonardo asks softly, moving back over to the stove to finish his tea.
Clearing my throat, I shrug while picking at the strap across his shoulder.
"Oh, uh, okay. Besides being, ya know, small." I watch as he stirs his tea. "Otherwise, I'm okay."
I feel a gaze on me as the clicking of cereal into a ceramic bowl fills the air.
"Are you sure you're okay?"
Nodding, I squirm around a little, unable to get comfortable. Everything about this Leo is just so much like my Leo. His voice and even his skin tone are so close.
Biting my bottom lip, I peer up at the older turtle. My throat tightens when light brown stare back.
Yeah, no. Can't do this right now.
Clearing my throat, I drop my gaze and pat his arm awkwardly.
"Yeah, totally, Leo. But, uh, could you put me down? I wanna stretch my little legs."
Confusion morphs onto the turtle in blue's face and for a split second, I swear I see some hurt but it goes by so quickly that I can't tell if it was real or my imagination.
"Oh, yeah. Sure."
Leo gently places me down and I try to make it not obvious that I'm putting space between us by slowly walking over to the table. My guilt spikes when an awkwardness fills the air as I hear Leonardo resume his tea making. I can still hear Master Splinter working on my cereal, which should be done here shortly, but I don't dare wonder over. That'll just look even worse than me asking to be put down. And I don't want this Leo thinking that he's done something wrong. Because he hasn't! It's just me and my stupid brain and the fact that I can't put my emotions aside for one second to focus.
"Mrew?"
Jumping, I twist toward the kitchen door. A familiar orange tabby stares back with bright green eyes. The white spots on his face aren't quite as big as my tabby's but there is no denying that this is another version of my furbaby. The little guy blinks at me and wonders closer as soft footsteps fill the air.
"Good morning, everyone," a tired voice says, yawning loudly.
Glancing up, I watch in mild amusement as larger me wanders into the kitchen, rubbing his eyes tiredly. His older brother also turns and my heart aches at the soft but amused smile on the elder's face.
"Good morning, sleepyhead," Leonardo teases. "Thought you'd sleep for a few more minutes. Let me guess, a little orange ball of energy woke you up?"
Michelangelo chuckles as he stretches his arms over his head.
"Nah. I actually woke him. Woke up about 5 minutes ago and my stomach started singing the song of its people. Loud enough that it scared Klunkers and then he started meowing at the door." My buffer counterpart starts searching around for something before finding it under the sink. "Because someone wants th—"
Michelangelo turns, holding a container of cat food in his left hand. However, the moment he looks over and spots me and Klunk, the words die on his lips. Large sky blue eyes meet my own ocean blue. A nervous smile tugs on my lips as he continues gawking at me so I break eye contact to pet Klunk as he rubs against me, purring.
"Uh, mor-morning, dude," I greet awkwardly, scratching at a patch behind Klunk's ear that my Klunk absolutely loves having itched.
My voice seems to snap the older me from his shock and he shoots his brother a look. However, Master Splinter beats Leonardo as he walks up behind Michelangelo and rests a hand on his shoulder, gaining his attention.
"Good morning, Michelangelo," Master Splinter greets, moving passed the orange-cladded turtle with my bowl of cereal. "It would appear that Michelangelo here is currently experiencing a side effect from chi depletion. According to his father, this has happened before and is not something to be concerned about as he shall revert back once he is mostly recovered."
"That's right!" I chirp, squatting down to tickle Klunk's chin. "The last time, all I did was pass out and when I woke up I was normal! So, I'm sure after sleeping tonight, I'll be all good. Like a turtle do!"
Silence follows my words and I glance up. Michelangelo and Leonardo have looks of horror on their faces. Master Splinter, however, looks like he is trying to find the will to continue living.
"What?" I ask as I pick Klunk up, rubbing my cheek against his head as he purrs loudly in my ear.
"Is…Is that NORMAL for you?" Michelangelo asks, voice cracking weirdly as he shoots his older brother a strange look.
"Passing out?" I ask as Master Splinter continues toward me. "I mean, lately? Kinda? But not normally." My head tilts in thought. "Honestly, I think me passing out had more to do with Tiger Claw turtlenapping me then me being chi depleted."
Michelangelo makes a strange noise while a crease forms between Leonardo's eye ridges, his face paling as his lips form a thin line.
Why are they looking like that? Leo only ever makes that face when I screw up or he's disappointed.
"What?"
Master Splinter sighs as he places my bowl down before reaching down to pick me and Klunk up.
"Nothing, Michelangelo," Master Splinter says softly, plopping me into a chair before taking Klunk from me when he tries to wiggle onto the table. "But I do believe you should eat before the cereal gets too soggy."
Frowning, I shift onto my knees to better look over the table.
"But you guys look upset…"
"We're…We're not upset, little dude," Michelangelo says, uncertainty coloring his voice as I start eating. "Just, uh, just concerned with how CASUALLY you brought up being turtlenapped by, uh, Tiger Claw?"
Swallowing my mouthful, I watch my counterpart put food into Klunk's dish as Master Splinter puts the orange tabby down.
"Well, I mean, it's not like it's a DAILY occurrence but, uh," I pause and stir my breakfast soup. "I have… a decent track record of being turtlenapped…But don't tell my bros I admitted to that!" I pout as I scoop up more of the sugary goodness. "They'd never let me leave the lair again if they knew I agreed with them. But Leo's record is much worse than mine!"
Leonardo splutters as Michelangelo suddenly starts coughing as he heads toward the fridge. I watch in confusion as the older turtle points a finger at my counterpart.
"Don't you dare say anything, Michelangelo!"
My counterpart holds up his hands as he pulls out some eggs and ham.
"Didn't say a word, dude," he states, his eyes sparkling as he starts gathering everything else he needs. "I totally wasn't gonna say sounds like another turtle that I know."
Master Splinter closes his eyes, muttering softly in what sounds like Japanese but I can't make out the words. After breathing in deeply, the older mutant releases it slowly as I continue to watch him, eating my cereal as Leonardo squawks at his Michelangelo. Brown eyes open and meet my gaze. A soft look forms on his face and he rests a warm hand on my head.
"Sensei?
He shakes his head.
"How is your cereal, little one?"
Frowning, I glance down at the bowl. Most of the contents are gone. Stirring the last bites of cereal left I shrug and do my best to smile.
"It's pretty good! Been awhile since I've just had cereal for breakfast."
"April always gets us the good stuff!" Michelangelo calls out as Leonardo takes a huffy sip of his tea. "Except when she buys that weird healthy cereal that Raphie eats, but usually she doesn't disappoint."
"Which reminds me. I need to text April about when she wants us to pick up the groceries," Leonardo comments, taking another sip of tea. "She should be at least awake now, so before practice I'm going to go do that."
I drop my gaze as he moves to exit the kitchen.
"Don't take too long!" His brother calls out after him. "We have extra mouths to feed, so if you want eggs or ham, you'll need to be fast!"
"Your fathers and I have already eaten," Master Splinter explains as I drain the remaining milk before taking my bowl. "But please let me know when breakfast is ready so that I can make sure my sons are awake."
Michelangelo nods with a grin and a thumbs up.
"No problem, Sensei! We have more than enough for everyone. I was merely teasing Leo. He won't admit it but he loves my eggs and Raph likes to pretend to eat them all just to annoy him. 'Sides, it would be rude of us to eat before our guests. But I'll let you kn—"
Michelangelo trails off as soft steps cuts him off and the three of us turn in time to see a mostly awake Tiny Leo entering the kitchen. His mask is back on but his swords are missing. His dark blue eyes land on his father first and he bows slightly.
" Ohayōgozaimasu," Tiny Leo greets, "I hope I'm not…"
Tiny Leo trails off, much like his larger counterpart and Michelangelo did not even moments before, when he glances my way. His mouth falls open a little.
"Leonardo, you will catch flies like that," Master Splinter scolds softly and Tiny Leo snaps his mouth shut.
"M-Mikey?!" Tiny Leo asks, taking half a step toward me, reaching out for me.
"Hey, Leo," I say, waving a little. " Ohayōgozaimasu."
And, almost like a switch, Tiny Leo's face brightens and scoops me up, hugging me close. I tense for a moment before relaxing as Tiny Leo starts cooing, rubbing his cheek on top of my head.
"Awe! You're so cute, Mikey!" Tiny Leo gushes, holding me out for a moment. I swear his eyes are sparkling but he's trying very hard to hold himself back. "What happened? Why are you so small?" He pauses, tilting his head and narrowing his eyes in thought. "Are you like this because you helped heal Mikey last night?"
I wince and shoot him a sheepish look.
Leos are all mind-readers and nobody can tell me any differently.
"Leonardo."
Tiny Leo tense, his eyes widening as he glances up at his father. I just dangle from his grasp like a limp kitten as I wait for someone to do something.
Preferably put me down. Or hug me again and then put me down. But I don't wanna hang around all day like this.
Master Splinter clears his throat.
"I think Michelangelo would like to be put down, my son."
I snicker to myself when red colors the blue-cladded turtle's face. His eyes flicker over to me. I merely smile at him, waiting for him to make his decision.
"I…I'm sorry, Mikey," Tiny Leo stammers, gently placing me down onto my feet. "I…You're just so cute. I couldn't help it."
Giggling, I squish my cheeks with my hands.
"Well, yeah! Dude, I'm the cute and pretty one!"
"It's some law," Michelangelo adds, dropping some ham on a pan causing it to sizzle. "All Michelangelos are and always will be the cutest and prettiest of the bros!"
Tiny Leo chuckles, shaking his head in amusement. He pats me on the head as he walks pass, heading for the still warm kettle. Michelangelo gestures toward a cabinet, where I'm guessing the extra mugs are and Tiny Leo nods in thanks. Master Splinter watches his son from the sink before slowly approaching him as he starts pouring hot liquid into a tan mug. Suddenly feeling slightly out of place, I turn and creep out of the kitchen.
Pausing just outside of the entryway, I glance around the main area, rubbing my arms.
I just can't get over how big this place is! And how full of metal and electronics it is. Donnie would love to visit here. Would totally be geeking over the massive computer in the center of the room.
There is just so much space! I think, my gaze drifting back over to the dojo. Maybe Chichi will be okay to let me skip training and meditation today so I can just explore this lair. See if I can get any ideas for our lair that I can suggest to Don to spruce things up a little.
Voices from the second floor have me pausing mid step, not even able to move from my current spot.
That…That sounds like Raphael and Leonardo.
My heart leaps into my throat as I stare at the dojo. Leonardo mentioned something about them having training. Which means that this world's version of me and my bros will be heading into the dojo here shortly after breakfast. Which means…being in the same room as them.
Because that went over so well with Leo, I think, wringing my hands together.
Pursing my lips, I glance around to figure out I can do. I obviously can't go to the dojo at the moment. Not when I know that after breakfast the bros that look so close to mine will also be there. No. And if I had in the bedrooms, Chichi will just find me and force me to come out and interact with everyone. And if THAT happens I'm gonna cause a scene with another mental breakdown. And nobody needs that. ESPECIALLY Sensei. He already dealt with that once. He doesn't need to do so again.
My eyes flicker around until my eyes land on the door leading back into the sewers. Maybe…Maybe a little walk is in order? I won't go too far. Just far enough to clear my head and get this stupid whatever it is under control. Or just until I can get my smile mask back into working order. If I fake a smile long enough it'll become a real smile sooner or later. Or so one of Donnie's textbooks told me.
Swallowing thickly, I set my resolve and cautiously creep across the lair. My heart pounds in my ears and I keep shooting the dojo panicked looks. This feels almost like when I was a kid and wanted to go skate in the sewers without anyone watching to practice my tricks. Alwayss terrified that Sensei would come storming out of his room because he could hear how loud my heart is being and just KNEW that I was doing something that I wasn't supposed to be doing.
Nerves dance in my chest the closer I get to the door. I can hear Leonardo and Raphael moving about on the second floor and I'm scared they're gonna turn at the right moment and see me. The space here is just so open and with barely any cover that I will be spotted immediately if they just turn slightly my way. I press a hand to my mouth when I finally reach the alcove where the door leading back into the sewers is and I press my shell up against the brick. My free hand rests over my pounding heart.
You got this Mikester. Nobody will even notice that you're gone. You just need to take a five minute walk to get your bearings and keep the waterworks at bay so that you don't immediately want to start sobbing everytime you look at this Leo's face! Easy peasy.
Nodding to myself, I glance up at the hidden door, searching for the doorknob or pipe. What I find instead is a small electric padlock with numbers and a tiny green screen that just screams "DONATELLO WAS HERE". I swallow a whine as I slump forward.
Of COURSE their Donatello would add a security system to their home. Why would he? That's just smart and practical! And, of course, it keeps unwanted guests out. But it also keeps guests in.
My shoulders tense when my skin suddenly prickles and I press myself up against the wall just as the hidden door starts shifting around. I hold my breath as the door fully opens and in walks Donatello, holding a tablet in his hand and a small green eye-piece covers his right eye.
"Yup. Thanks, Leatherhead. I did track down the signal that you sent me," he says as he walks by. "I think we should recheck it out after you and I check on Michelangelo, just to be safe."
My eyes widen as he continues walking and the door is still partially open. Not taking time to think anymore, I rush forward and slip through the last bit of space before the hidden door fully closes behind the brainiac turtle. I swiftly press myself up against the wall of the tunnel until the door fully closes. I pause for the count of ten but when it doesn't reopen with an angry Chichi I deem it safe and I release the breath I was holding.
"Shell. Is this how Raph feels when he sneaks out to get beer with Casey?" I mutter, turning and starting down the tunnel. "It's horrible! Why does he even sneak out? All that stress and panic cannot be good for the heart. It's a soft muscle. It can't handle that kind of pressure."
Kicking a pebble, I watch as it goes skidding down the walkway. I still can't get over just how bright it is down here. Like, there are some spaces that have some darkness to them, but nothing like Tiny Us's world or even my own. The coty would have thrown a fit if they found out the sewers were lit up for seemingly no reason.
"But it does keep me from accidentally stubbing my toes!" I say aloud, jumping over some rubble that I didn't notice yesterday. "Which is great!"
After a moment, I sigh, losing any of my cheer.
Who am I trying to kid? I'm not out here to be impressed by the fact that I can see my hand in front of my face. I just want to be able to get to know these new versions of us without getting choked up. They're being so nice and kind and I'm not gonna lie. It was GREAT being held by Leonardo. Because for one millisecond, just ONE millisecond, my brain was fooled into thinking he was MY Leo. MY big brother. The stupidly brave and self-sacrificing big brother who kicked me and our father through a portal instead of letting us help him and Donnie with the Fist.
My vision blurs and I stop walking, hands clenching and unclenching at my sides as I tremble.
And…And I KNOW Chichi promised that we'll get home. That we'll see everyone again. That I'll be able to give Leo a piece of my mind while also hugging him and Donnie and Raph and never let go again.
Doesn't the universe know that I can't function without my bros, I think, bottom lips trembling as I try to keep my tears at bay. Doesn't it know I'm not that strong? That I'll just shatter into nothing if I lose my brothers?
My chest heaves as I finally give up the fight and a sob rips from me.
Have I done something that pissed the universe off and it sent Turtle Luck my way to torture me as a way of revenge? Did I anger some mighty being in a past life and this is my karma? To gain strange and weird powers that I can't control and be stuck in different universes without knowing how if my bros are safe and okay? Or maybe this is the universe's way of punishing me for being selfish? Me being selfish for spending two years wishing to having all of my bros together and happy and no longer fighting. And the universe was like "You can have that for a few months before I tear it all away. Enjoy the time with your bros 'cause it's over now."
My fist scrubs at my eyes as I squat down as another sob rips from me.
"And here I am, being selfish all over again," I croak out to myself, laughing wetly. "Mini Me almost died an dhis family nearly lost him and I don't see any of them throwing fits. Shell, Master Splinter is in the exact same boat as me! And he's not a blubbering mess! Why can't I be stronger? Why can't I just hold it together? We haven't even been gone that long!" I clutch at my head as I stare down at my knees. "It's not like it's been years! It's been days! DAYS! I didn't act like this when Leo went to South America!"
My finger nails dig into my skin and I curl further into myself. My body protesting this position as my injuries press against each other and stretch in other places.
No. That's a lie.
I did have some crying fits like this back when Leo was gone. But mainly after huge fights between Donnie and Raph and Raph storming off and Don locking himself in his lab. It felt like I was losing my family and there was nothing I could do. And when the letters stopped coming? And when Leo didn't come home when he was supposed to?
It felt like everything just shattered around me.
We almost never saw Raph except when he woke up to eat. Donnie stopped building and tinkering and become a depressed IT employee. Master Splinter stopped having us train and would meditate almost nonstop. And me? I tried. I tried so hard to keep our family going. To keep the spirit alive. But nothing worked. The only thing that I knew would fix Donnie, Raph, and Chichi was Leo's return. But nobody even knew if he was ever gonna return. When two months went by without a letter I thought he was dead. I thought that Leo had somehow gotten killed and we weren't there to save him. I started having dreams of the kids beating him to death while I was forced to watch and his last words to me being how it was my fault. That I was to blame for our family falling apart, for Leo leaving in the first place, that his death was on my hands because I wasn't there to take the hit for him instead.
Many nights, I just stayed in my room crying, doing my best to remain quiet with my face in a pillow. Don's room is right next to mine and some of my worst nightmares had woken him up a couple of times and I always felt bad because he always looked tired and I was just making it worse.
"I just want our lives to go back to normal," I whisper hoarsely as more burning tears roll down my cheeks, gathering at my chin. "I just want everyone to be home and happy and safe. No more fighting. No more mystical statue things. No more dimension hopping. Normal. Where my bros and I go to the farmhouse with Casey and April and hang out. Where my bros and I go skating through the sewers. Where we hang out with the Mutanimals and have an awesome game night. No fighting. No drama. No me somehow ruining it by just existing." My eyes squeeze shut. "Is that what it is? Is it me? Am I the reason all of this is happening?" My skull aches I dig in deeper as I start laughing, a sound souless and defeated. "What am I saying?! Of course it's me! I was the one who started this by begging Leo to leave the lair! If I would have just listened to him, none of this would have HAPPENED!"
Without thinking, I punch the ground as hard as I can with a shout. A sharp pain shoots up through my arm and the skin on my knuckles split. My entire hand starts to burn and I can't move my wrist. I stare blankly at where my hand rests on the walkway, unmoving as tears just slide down freely. My chest heaves and I just feel numb.
I think I broke my wrist, I think, blinking dazedly. Chichi isn't gonna be happy.
As I calm down, I move into a kneeling position and cradle my hand to my chest. A weak chuckle leaves me in an almost wheeze.
"At least it's not my drawing hand," I comment, too tired to do anything else. "But so much for nobody knowing I left. How am I supposed to explain to Sensei that I somehow broken my wrist between the time he saw me and Master Splinter saw me?"
A heavy sigh escapes me.
What does it matter? I'm pretty sure I'm already grounded for life after everything that's happened, what's another lifetime added on for sneaking out of a lair that's not even our's into a tunnel sustem that I don't know?
"So long world," I mutter, groggily pushing myself upright. "It was nice seeing you. Maybe in the afterlife I'll be able to run across the rooftops again as a free turtle."
A frown tugs on my lips as I stare down at mu hand, a strange feeling tugging at my gut. Suddenly, the back of my neck prickles and my head snaps up. My vision blurs from the movement and my heart thunders as I sense someone coming closer and closer. Heavy footsteps echo theough the tunnels and I frantically look around for a hiding spot.
Shell. SHELL! Chichi is for SURE gonna kill me if I get turtlenapped in this world, too!
A whine slips from me that morphs into a whimper when I realize that there is absolutely nowhere to hide and I have no idea just how close I am to the lair's door. Or if I'd be able to reach it in time to slip back inside before whoever this is sees me. My left hand flies to my belt only for my blood to freeze.
There is no belt.
Shell! I've been walking about NAKED this whole time?! My mind screams at me as I also notice my pads and wrappings are gone.
Chichi, my dear sweet Chichi, whyyyyyyyy? Why didn't you tell me I was naked before handing me off to Master Splinter?!
My face and eyes burn for a whole different reason. However, my mortification is quickly snuffed out when a shadow falls over me. My mouth dries as my shoulders hunch up to my ears. Whoever is standing behind me feels large and powerful. Like they could grab me in one hand and crush me, shell and all.
Maybe if I don't move, they won't see me, I think as I feel eyes burning holes in the back of my head.
After a beat, a frown morphs onto my lips and I have to fight the urge to glance over my shoulder. The person in horror movies always dies when they look over their shoulder. I refuse to go out that way. I have brothers to chew out!
"Hel…" A deep and slightly gravely voice starts before pausing and the sound of sniffing fills the air.
My eye ridges furrow in confusion.
Are…Are they sniffing me?
"Mi…Michelangelo?"
Blinking in surprise, this time I do turn around. My mouth falls open as this world's Leatherhead is standing behind me. He is a little smaller than my Leatherhead but his eyes and coloring is very similar with some variations. But, even if I hadn't seen him yesterday, I would have been able to tell it's him. And not just because he's in a white labcoat and wearing an eye-piece similar to Donatello's.
"He-Hey, Leatherhead!" I greet, quickly scrubbing my free hand over my face when he frowns. "Fancy meeting you here!"
Leatherhead tilts his head slightly and that's when I realize that he's carrying a small duffel bag. Unsure what else to do as I wait for him to respond, I smile ip at him.
"You…" he starts before pausing for a moment to readjust his eye-piece. "You are the other Michelangelo from yesterday, correct? The one that came in with our Michelangelo later?"
I nod, relieved that I didn't have to try and explain how I got here or who I am.
Thank you, pizza gods for Leatherhead's beautiful mind, I think as I bounce on the balls of my feet.
"Yup! But, uh, I kinda shrunk down for a little bit. I saw you talking to Raph when we got in."
Leatherhead nods slowly before moving forward and kneeling down to my level. He offers me a confused smile.
"That is correct. Is…Is there a reason why you are suddenly the size of a child?"
Chuckling, I glance off to the side as I hold my arm closer.
"Uh, yeah? But it's kinda a long story, dude. And you look like you're going somewhere."
Leatherhead glances down at the bag before glancing back to me. His golden eyes flicker to my face before dropping down to my cradled arm and he gasps.
"Michelangelo! You are injured! What happened to your wrist?"
My eyes follow his gaze for a second before peering back up at him, sheepishly.
"Uh…I, um… I think I might have broken it?"
Leatherhead purses his lips and places the duffel bag down.
"Well, we are not leaving this sot until I check your wrist over and get it wrapped," Leatherhead states firmly as he unzips his bag and pulls out some wraps and a splint.
My eye ridges raise in alarm.
"Is…Is that medical supples? Is that to help Mikey? Dude, LH, you can't use that on me! You gotta save it for the little dude!"
A chuckle emits from the older mutant and he places a large hand on my head as I stare up at him in panic.
"This is indeed medical supplies, however," Leatherhead says, holding up a finger when I go to argue. "This is merely items to help restock Donatello's supplies. Most of it is replacing what we used on the smaller Michelangelo but also other necessary items that I noticed that he was missing." He cocks an eye ridge at me. "Supplies that we both know would and will end up on your person, whether by my hand or Donatello's. However, I would feel much better if we at least tended to it to get it stablized until we get you back to the lair and we can put a proper cast on that wrist."
My snout wrinkles.
I hate casts. I remember how gross and sweaty they got when I broke both my legs during our last fight with Utrom Shredder. And boy, did those casts stink when Donnie finally got them off. I felt so bad and my legs were so thin. It was so distrubing.
"I take it that you, much like my Michelangelo, are well aquantied with casts?" Leatherhead asks casually but I can hear the humor lacing his words as he gently takes my wrist from me.
Pouting, I nod.
"Yeah. It was pretty nasty, not gonna lie."
Leatherhead hums in agreement.
"Indeed. But sometimes, they are necessary," he explains as he leans closer with the eye-piece, humming again. "And, I am sorry to say, will be necessary in this case. You factured quite a few bones in your wrist. None are completely broken but could easily become so if you freely move your arm. So, how about this," Leatherhead leans back, studying me with gentle gold eyes. "You explain to me how you came to be in this form and I shall splint your wrist and maybe, just maybe, I will be the one to put your cast one so Donatello is not lecturing you the entire time about coming out here unsupervised."
My eye ridges skyrocket upward.
"How'd…How'd you know I wasn't supposed to be out here?!"
The older mutant winks at me as he cautiously holds my arm in one hand.
"Call it "Michelangelo Intuition"," Leatherhead says, chuckling. "As, I have also ran into my Michelangelo out in the sewers by himself, giving me the exact same look you gave me when he isnout here wothout his brothers knowing."
Sighing, I fake pout for a seconding before laughing.
"All right, fine. You caught me." I grin up at him. "Guess it's a good thing I don't play poker, huh?"
"And it is a good thing that I know a topic change attempt when I ssee one."
This time the laugh that leaves me feels more genuine, causing me to wince as I not only twitch my arm but my worn out body as well.
"Gotta give a turtle credit for trying." Leatherhead shoots me a looks and I giggle. "All right. All right. But, I wasn't lying when I said it's kinda a long story."
"Then it is a good thing we are heading in the same direction then, hmm?"
Chuckling, I nod as I start explaining just how wacked up my life as been over the last few weeks. Leatherhead listens silently, only talking when he needs to warn me about moving my wrist. And…it's nice. It reminds me of when Slash and my Leatherhead found me skating the sewers and they let me rant about how unfair it was being grounded to the sewers was.
Maybe this is what I need, I think as I start describing the fight with the Fist in the alleyway, my chest loosening the longer I talk. Chichi is always telling us to not bottle thing up or they'll explode. And I've let things go for too long and now? Now, I just need to talk when I'm not half delirous out of my mind. And maybe, just maybe, everything will get better.
