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Before You Go | Future Donnie & April Insight (Part VI)

(Reader Included)

A/N: Any constructive criticism is appreciated. Reader comments and feedback are also welcomed a lot. 

I have been gone for a long time. Just occupied with my studies! No fan fiction author curse or anything (yet).

Summary: You’re both adopting-parents of Casey. The story follows the perspective of Donatello and April O’Neil during the Kraang apocalypse. You and Leonardo decided to ask them to watch over thirteen-year-old Casey.

In other words, familial interactions between April, Donnie, and Casey Jr.

Reader: Gender-neutral pronouns are used, except the terms “(Mom / Dad)” are also used. Second POV.

Pairing: Rise! Future! Leonardo X Reader

Warnings: Bittersweet.

Word Count:  ~3490

Parts: One / Two / Three / Four / Five / Six / ...

~

Donnie knew how much of a genius he was.

It was no surprise after all. In his late teens, he improved NASA’s satellites to communicate with planets light centuries away. He cured breast cancer through the use of protons in radiation therapy to target specific cells, rather than affecting the harmless. Hell, he even managed to discover a new type of radioactive particles: mutons. By that point, he—.

“—should have been given a Nobel Prize in Medicine and in Chemistry.” Donnie cursed under his breath. He strolled over to his lab bench, equipping his goggles.

Squeeeak. 

April– who was found seated on Donnie’s roughed-up, spinning gaming chair– raised an eyebrow. Her hair had grown out and was left unbounded. Faint wrinkles and eye bags on her features displayed maturity, in contrast to a couple of years ago. However, everyone was well aware that time was not the only factor. 

“Whatcha going on about now, Donnie?”

The softshell huffed. “Recall when I wrote a report about my experimental findings with an invention meant to revive a deceased human being?”

“...You mean the one where you thought it was a good idea to open up Curie’s tomb? Even gone as far as to ask for my help?” April grimaced. “Who’d ever forget that.”

She proceeded to massage her temples. 

“God. You were in all kinds of messed up for that, Don.”

Lightning-like yellow sparks flickered as Donnie had his robotic hands occupied with a butane torch. His goggles were sealed tight around his eyes as he built a oval-looking device on his lab bench. Titanium outer-layer over a seriously complex circuit-board; appearing as if Samsung marketed grenades.

He scoffed. “Oh please. It wasn’t as if I’d taken long to understand how Marie Curie deserves her rest for her great contributions to radiation. Thus is why–.”

“–You decided to take a poor random husband of an old wife,” April interjected.

“Ahem.” Donnie pronounced. “The poor woman was begging me for her husband to be alive again. I was simply gracious and generous enough to not charge her for the process.” He set aside the butane torch. “At least it progressed well; he stayed alive for an additional two years. It gave his wife psychological comfort, and I was able to submit my paper to the N.S.F..” 

He picked up a screwdriver. “Except....” 

April could tell her friend’s eye was twitching. 

“They rejected my findings, nearly had me detained, and claimed it was far too ‘unethical.’” Donnie raised his volume. “Scoff! As if those researchers weren’t committing the crime themselves! Taking bodies away from families and claiming them as scientific property without permission.

If I could go back in time and shove my documents in their jaws, you bet I would.”

April smirked. “Well, I have my regrets too, Donnie.”

“You sound rather amused, April. Is that so surprising? And here I never thought you would regret your part-time job at Albearto’s. Or the fact you wasted money to switch to journalism in university.”

WHACK!

April threw her bat at Donnie’s head, flying back to her hand like a boomerang.

“Watch your mouth, mister. I may have regretted Albearto’s, but not a single moment in my life did I ever regret my journalism passion.” She stood up.

“Ouch.” The softshell vocalized, squinting his eyes toward her. His robotic clampers paused, setting aside the torch and taking off his goggles. 

“Mind yourself, April. Horse-playing is forbidden in the laboratory. I am not consenting to having yet another silver-titanium apparatus get scratched because of you.” Donnie gritted his teeth. “Can you hear the negative connotation?”

“Seriously, Donnie? Where’d that come from? Not only was that years ago but it ain’t anything except a simple accident.” 

“‘Simple accident?’” the softshell repeated with dramatic offense. “An accident, like many others in science labs, which could have caused severe damage! Remember the incident when your teacher dumped bleach and vinegar into the trash bin?

You know, if you had paid any attention in your chemistry class, those two would make mustard gas?” Donnie side-eyed his friend. “Simple accidents can have serious consequences, O’Neil.”

A hand crept up the lab bench.

“Uh-huh, and I’m supposed to believe an instance of me knocking over your phone and books would kill somebody?” April crossed her arms. “If anything, the blame’s yours for not organizing your desk when you got drunk on coffee.”

The hand took ahold of the butane torch.

“Donatello? Disorganized? Sounds cheap coming from you, a student majoring in Journalism.”

April pulled up her coat’s sleeves. “Oh boy, you’re about to get it—.”

Squeeeak!

Heads spun and found a 13-year old boy, replacing April’s spot on Donnie’s chair. Casey eyed the torch with a great yet concerning amount of curiosity.

“Yo, what’s this for, Uncle Don?”

At lightning speed, while April ran to move the gaming chair away further from the workbench, Donnie snatched the tool from his hands. “Child. Casey. Young man.” The softshell heaved loudly. “I must inform you this is NOT meant to be handled with such casual ease. How in Hawking did you even—.”

“Don’t your lab have a passcode or something?” 

“–Is what I am wondering myself, O’Neil. I refuse to believe this child remembers the beginning thirty numbers of π–.”

“Nope, only us.” April and Donnie lifted their gazes to his lab entrance. You leaned on the frame while a dear red-eared slider stood just behind. A couple of steps inside, and the metallic lab door shut close. 

Donnie– strangely– was quick to hide his device-in-progress off to the side.

“You’re back!” April grinned. “Hell, you would not believe the convo Donnie and I were having a minute ago.” She hurried to hug you.

“Figures,” Leo remarked. “We could practically hear you yards off.”

“Sounds like things never get old.” You smiled.

There was a side-eye between Donnie and April, before the Commander proceeded to inquire, coughing: “Anyhow.. care to explain the occasion? You two don’t seem to be in a hurry.”

“The only times you ever visit my laboratory are to prepare for immediate combat engagement, and you look awfully collected.” The softshell furrowed his brows.

“No, no.” You waved your hands, shaking your head. “Thank God no. We came here to ask if you two could take care of our Casey here while we head out.” The other turtle scrunched his in-quote eyebrows. “You— You came here to request us to... babysit him?”

April jabbed him in his plastron.

“You see? Just like I said.” Leo turned to you. “I know my brother, love. Don’s not the kind of guy to take responsibility for a kid. Or anyone, really.”

“Hold on.” Donnie narrowed his eyes. “I never said I refused, Leo.”

“Don’t know, it sounds like it to me.”

“Well, my misinformed brother, contrary to your belief, I am perfectly capable of handling a child.”

You huffed with amusement. Your husband only winked back.

“If you say so, Don.”

“Where are you two heading off for if you needed us to watch over him?” April inquired. “Wondering, ‘cause this never happened even when you two leave for patrol.”

“Just finding some time for ourselves.”

April exclaimed, “As in a honeymoon? Why not just say so? We’ll leave you two alone–.”

“–In this economy and climate?” Donnie interjected. “Has it also not been six years since your yet-to-be-legal marriage?”

“Alright, alright,” Leonardo chuckled. “Cut us some slack, bro. Finding time wasn’t easy when there’s Kraang above our necks.”

“Right, and you’re going on a honeymoon, how?” The softshell crossed his arms. “Simply because you’re the leader does not equate to you making wise decisions, Leo.”

“His ōdachi can teleport anyone to anyplace, we have some hope we can easily teleport to a remote area,” you answered. “One without Kraang infestation. It’ll be hard, but we may as well try.”

“Bonus points if we find clear skies and an ocean.” The red-eared turtle grinned, wrapping his arm over your shoulders.

“What’s a honeymoon, (Mom / Dad)?”

Your hand went to caress Casey’s cheek. “Parent quality time. It just means you get to handle yourself like the responsible grown-up you’ll become one day. Just promise me you’ll be on your best behavior around Uncle Don and Auntie April?”

“I promise, (Mom / Dad)!”

“Good boy,” Leo laughed, ruffling the kid’s hair.

“You didn’t ask Mikey and Raph to help out too, or?”

“Between you and me, I think you guys are better of making sure Casey doesn’t get into any chaos,” you whispered to April. “Don’t tell them that, though.”

She laughed. “Okay, I see how it is. You both have fun.” 

Donnie bit his lip. Right as Leonardo and (Name) turn to exit the laboratory, he extended his arm out to them.

“Leo, (Name).”

You two faced back to him once more.

“Don’t kill yourselves out there.”

Everyone’s eyes widened– April, you, and Leonardo himself. But the brother in blue snickered, holding a smile that reached his eyes. “So you do also care for me, Don. And all this time I thought you were plotting to put me in my grave or something.”

“We won’t.” Leo placed a hand on your shoulder. “You got my word.”

“Bye (Mom / Dad)! Bye Papa!”

“We’ll be back soon, Casey!”

Donnie stood in silence as you finally left, leaving himself with none other than his best friend and his nephew. “I refuse to believe this is the future we have to deal with.”

“Times changed all of us, didn’t they?” April spoke. “One day we wish each other a good one, and the next, we hope we just don’t die. I could’ve been a famous news anchor by now, make my mother happy, fight crime without worrying about dying the next second.

..I wonder if there’s anyone else out there besides the small number of us down here.”

“..I doubt it.”

Donnie pulled himself together and walked back to his workbench, operating his clampers to work once again. He put on his goggles. Casey, being a young teenager of enthusiasm, peeked over.

“Watch yourself, boy,” April warned.

“Don’t worry about me, Auntie. I’m only standing over here.” Casey narrowed his eyes upon the glowing and metal-like ball his uncle had his tools on. “What are you working on, Uncle Don?”

“A sphere.”

“A sphere?”

“You heard correctly.”

“That sounds kind of boring.”

Donnie had to hold himself back from remarking with: ‘That is exactly what every child whose intellect is doomed would say.’

“I’m sure your mother would find it rather moving.”

“(Mom / Dad)? I don’t understand what’s emotional about a ball, though.”

“Hey Casey.” April coughed. “Why not tell us about your mask here? Haven’t taken a good look at it before. Maybe Uncle Don would like to hear it too.”

“You actually want me to talk about my mask?”

“Ain’t a problem, is it?”

“No.” He fidgeted with his fingers a bit. “You don’t have anything else to do?”

“We were just told to watch over you, kid.”

“Yeah, but everyone I know is always busy with the Kraang or supplying weapons. I never really get chances to hang out.”

There was a brief pause in the butane torch’s flame.

April’s expression softened. Her hand came up to brush his black hair. “Things have gotten calmer up there. So you’ve got plenty of time with us now.”

Casey smiled.

“So your mask?” 

The boy alternated between covering his face and removing it. “(Mom / Dad) gave it to me. She told me it is based on the one worn by my biological mother. (Mom / Dad) also said that my birth mother was kind of crazy-funny and likes to be loud. She would have a stick to play– what was it– hockey?

I don’t know what kind of game hockey is supposed to be, but I guess it’s nice to know how life was like before all the Kraang.”

A sad smile crept on April’s lips. 

“Anyways, I thought the mask looked kind of plain, so I decided to draw red marks on it. See?” Casey showed his mask off, fingers tapping the surface. “Guess who it looks like!”

There were two bold and thick streaks of red. Each one ran through one eye, truly a defining characteristic. The Commander chuckled, already imagining how much pride her friend in blue would feel from the fact a kid– let alone one he had been parenting– looked up to him so much.

“You know, I am seeing someone familiar here.” April hummed as she put on a thoughtful facade. Fingers holding her chin and everything. “Got to be Uncle Don.”

Named turtle paused for a moment and raised a brow.

“Seriously, Auntie April?” On the other hand, Casey gave her an incredulous look and shook his head. “You probably want to get your eyes checked out, ‘cause Uncle Don doesn’t have any red stripes.” Off to the side. “And even if he did, he won’t look as cool as Dad.”

April snickered behind her palm as Donnie eyed the boy from behind his goggles.

“You’re right, you’re right. Just messing with you, kid.” Her hand ruffled his hair once more. “Sounds like you really admire your Papa, don’t you?”

“Why wouldn’t I? Dad has an awesome sword that opens up portals. He always moves so quickly whenever he’s fighting. Bam! And the Kraang’s gone!” The teenager stretched his arm for emphasis. “Even as the leader, Papa knows when to get serious and when to make people laugh. He also cares a lot about me, (Mom / Dad), you guys, and everyone!”

It made even Donnie himself smile. 

However, the way Casey’s enthusiasm died down had not gone unnoticed. “I’ve always wanted to help out though.” He sighed, shoulders slumping. “I want to fight the Kraang right by his and (Mom / Dad)’s side. Except I barely get the chance to, because they keep telling me to stay close to base and hide behind a giant rock.”

April crossed her arms and went quiet. His feelings were nothing new. In fact, she experienced the same thing herself, seeing she had always been a human. It was like that until–.

“Have no hard feelings,” Donnie spoke up, his hands and eyes remained on his spheric gadget. The sparks were flying. “Your parents are merely worried about your well-being.”

“I know, I know. They won’t have to though, if I can have enough training or something.” Casey sighed. “Then again, I also know I’m only a normal sensitive human.

...Why can’t I be a mutant instead?”

“Ahem. You are classified as a human. That is a true statement and one you cannot change.” Donnie hummed. “However, that does not mean you cannot be strong and capable in other ways.”

“Why does it sound like you’ve been in my place before?”

“Perhaps I did. Did you truly think being a soft-shell turtle is easy? I happened to be born as one of the only Testudines species whose outer shell cannot protect.” Donnie remarked. “Casey, your mask.” His hand signaled.

“What about my mask?”

“I merely want to add something.”

Confused, he hopped off the chair and handed the mask over. “Hmm. As long as you don’t mess with the stripes, Uncle Don.”

“Who says I won’t?”

Casey kicked Donnie’s leg.

“‘Ow,’ I say sarcastically without feeling physical pain.”

“Hmph.” He crossed his arms. “Why do you keep saying things like that?”

“Such as?”

“You say those action verbs, even when you’re already doing them.”

April snorted. “Just his thing, kid. Uncle Don’s got his special quirks.”

“Do you have a quirk?”

“Picking unnecessary fights for one,” Donnie commented.

“You only call them ‘unnecessary,’ because you never want to fix the problem.”

He rolled his eyes. “My solution would’ve been ten times more efficient if you had allowed my technology and I to do the work.”

Casey wondered. “Does your tech ever go haywire, Uncle Don?”

“No.”

“Oh man,” April began, “you should’ve been there for this one time. Your Uncle Don was building some kind of overprotective bed to keep your late Gramps from waking up from his beauty sleep.”

“Gramps likes to sleep?”

“You’d be surprised to hear that he sure does.”

“Then what happened?”

“Uncle Don asked your Dad, Uncle Mikey, and Uncle Raph to try punching, slicing, throwing whatever they could on the bed. They were attacking it like crazy!”

“And then?” 

“And the bed was even more insane, ‘cause there were actual missiles shooting out! They went straight for his brothers. At some point, it got overboard, so Uncle Don tried to command it to stop.”

“I’m hearing a ‘but’ coming.”

“But it malfunctioned and thought Uncle Don was the enemy!”

“However!” Donnie pointed his finger up, interrupting the story-telling. “It did not take long for my creation to recognize his master.”

“Still went haywire in my book,” April remarked. 

“Ignoring that.” His robotic hand tapped the edge of his workbench, grabbing Casey’s attention. “Come here, young man.” He slid back the mask, except in his hands, it felt as if the frame had thicken.

“It looks the same, but it doesn’t feel the same?”

“Try wearing it over your face.”

The boy did as told. All of a sudden, a bunch of green rectangles and words appeared in his vision. He gasped in awe. He spun around slowly, watching the rectangle focus on a figure through the wall.

“Yes yes, I know. I am well aware of how amazing I am.” Donnie huffed in pride. “I have opted to construct an interface with your mask. I cannot see why you shouldn’t have something to defend yourself with,” he reasoned. “I have other updates in mind later on. As of now, however, your mask will help you detect life forms across other rooms or through other objects.” 

“That’s so cool!” The boy hesitated though. “But I don’t want to break it or anything.”

“Hey.” April rested her hand on Casey’s shoulder, giving a firm squeeze. “Our resources are already scarce. Using then losing them is better than nothing. You better make the most of our tech. Understood, soldier?”

Casey grinned underneath his mask. He fixed his posture up and saluted. “Gotcha–! Understood, Commander!” 

He faced the inventor, whose hands were already back to being occupied with the “sphere.” “Thanks so much, Uncle Don!” Casey exclaimed, leaping towards the turtle to give a tight hug. “You’re the best!” 

Upon contact, Donnie stiffened up, but his lack of experience with physical touch did not prevent a smile forming on his face. He extended a robotic arm, patting Casey’s back. 

The boy then scanned around curiously with his mask. “Hey! Think I spot Uncle Mikey and Uncle Raph two floors down! They’re holding hands over a table or something. Why are so many people circling around them?”

April rolled her eyes. “Sounds like another arm-wrestling match between the our youngest and oldest brother.” 

Just like that, Casey booked it out of the laboratory so quickly, it reminded her of a certain red-eared slider. “What the–! Casey!” April groaned. “And here I thought we don’t have to deal with runaway kids. I better catch up to him.” 

“Would not worry about him too much,” Donnie commented. 

“What do you mean by that?”

“Considering we will not always be alive to protect him... the sooner we leave him to himself, the easier it will be for him to survive alone.” 

“Hey. Come on now.” April walked to her best friend’s side. “Don’t you say things like that. We’re all going to survive this together–.”

“April.” Slight pain wavered in his voice. “You know as well as I do how our current reality is. It is only a matter of time before the Kraang finds everyone.” 

“Yet you’re still here trying.”

No response.

“It’s all because of the kid, isn’t it?” April affirmed. “He ain’t any genius prodigy you were expecting long ago. But he gave you a reason to try– he became someone worth fighting for.”

“I would not put it as simply as that.”

She shrugged. “That’s how I’d say it. You know you’re not the only one whose life changed because of Casey.”

Donnie paused his work, turning off the butane torch and finally pulling his goggles off his eyes again. “...Casey reminds me of when we were young, being rash and immature teenagers like any other. I hate admitting to such thing, but I was one too. And I hate admitting much more how much I missed those times.

The child has known nothing of the trouble we’ve experienced outside, April: when Cassandra was killed, when Draxum was torn apart, when Dad decided to sacrifice himself despite the slim odds.” His hands clenched into fists.

“Do not expect me to have any false hope for our future, but do not assume I would want Casey to feel the same way. For as long as he can, I want him to hold onto that false hope.”

“...” April had her arms crossed. Her eyes slowly came to linger on the workbench. “Is that ‘sphere’ his false hope?”

“..No. Not his.” Donnie traced his thumb over his contraption. “It’s for (Name).”

Before You Go | Future Leo X GN!Reader (Part V)

A/N: This is legit the longest part yet. How time flies when I write. Any constructive criticism is appreciated. To be honest, reader feedback boosts my motivation to write anything in the first place.

Summary: You’re both adopting-parents of Casey. After years of being raised in an underground base, seven-year-old Casey got to finally see the overgrounds. Bunch of fluff and family interactions.

Reader: Gender-neutral pronouns are used, except the terms “(Mama / Papa)” are also used. Second POV.

Pairing: Rise! Future! Leonardo X Reader

Warnings: None.

Word Count:  ~3660

Parts: One / Two / Three / Four / Five / ...

~

“Woo! Let’s go Leo!”

Beneath the surface was a battle, surrounded by refugees onlooking their leader, Master Leonardo, against one of Big Mama’s top fighters.

Cheers boomed and echoed the cavern. It was supposed to be a practice round for Leo to better his swordsmanship. Alas, nothing could stop the interest of spectators.

Leo leaped over a giant shuriken being flung at him, making his way right at his opponent. Right when he managed to get close, a hammer smashed him into the ground. Dust and dirt flying from the impact.

The crowd groaned, feeling the phantom pain.

You stood high above in a ledge, watching alongside Leo’s brothers and April. You couldn’t help but wince, worried that all these battles might do your blue wrong if the Kraang ever discovered your base. 

In fact, shouldn’t anyone be concerned at the slightest that the Kraang might hear the commotion? All caution was thrown out the window. You hadn’t even realize Donnie had all the time in his world to build an arena. 

..He hadn’t happened to bother the DIGG band to do this, did he?

In your peripheral vision, a short figure hopped up and down next to you.

“(Mama / Papa)! You promised to take me above!” Casey whined. Though his patience was running low, his youthful curiousity was on high.

“I’m aware. But just be a bit more patient,” you assured. “Your father’s having a big show right now. He’s fighting one of Big Mama’s strongest.”

His eyes glimmered. The seven-year-old hopped again, wanting to see past the ledge. He always had a big interest for fighters and becoming a skilled one. Did he know how? He wasn’t sure at the moment. 

“Really!? I wanna see, I wanna see!”

He yelped as Raph picked him up and sat him on his shoulders. “Gosh, Casey, you’ve got to chill out. Papa’s not goin’ anywhere.” The snapping turtle grinned. “Seeing things better now?”

“Thanks, Uncle Raph!”

The audience roared loudly again. Leo swiped his ōdachi to open up multiple portals. He leaped across from one to another to another. Making a strike. Yes, Leo’s challenger was much larger, strength incomprehensible even, but could they match his speed?

You smiled, seeing Casey in absolute awe.

“You can do it, Papa!” he yelled.

Leo jumped onto one of his opponent’s many arms. His form front-flipping to slash the head. Moments passed and a gash sent the fighter recoiling.

To top it off, he opened a portal underneath them, before another one appeared high above. This time, he anchored his ōdachi in the dirt. He gave his wrists a few twists. And as Big Mama’s fighter fell through.. Leo took a swing and—!

WHHIIIRROOSH!

A heavy wave. A burst of wind. A strong blast from Leo’s contact with his opponent went and knocked everyone off their balance!

Some chunks of the ledge you and your friends were standing in even broke off.

.

.

.

The stunned crowd erupted into cheers. Casey was leaning off of Raph’s head, wide eyes and beaming astonishment on his face. 

“WOW, THAT’S SO COOL!” 

Raph, on the other hand, felt cold sweat the moment he had his own balance faltering from the kid’s movement. “Woah woah! Easy there!”

“Let’s go, baby!” Mikey jumped. “There’s our Leee-oh!”

April examined the knackered ledge. “Yeesh! If he was any stronger, Big Mama’s fighter ain’t gonna be the only one going down.” 

“A safety hazard?” Donnie was appalled. “Great.. another thing for my agenda..”

A quick sigh of relief fell from your lips and you laughed. “Okay okay, you guys. Casey’s been waiting for his time above-ground. Let’s get Leo before we head up.”

.

.

.

“Don’t get too worked up, Big Mama.” Leo smirked. “It’s all just practice.”

The old Spider yōkai huffed. “Yes yes. I was simply hoping that it could’ve been just a tad more entertaining of a show..” She turned her head to her knocked-out fighter, laying against the wall of the arena. “Unfortunate it is to have my Champion thrown off his feet with ease— do you not have other turtley-doos partaking? Perhaps the orange one would do nicely.”

Leo let out a laugh. “Unfortunately, for you, Big Mama, we got another schedule going for today. So how ‘bout you give us a call.. a week later. Sound good?”

“Bu—.”

“Muy bien. ¡Adiós!” He waved.

“Papa!” Leo saw Casey running. He opened his arms for the boy to catch a hug. “You were so cool, Papa! You were like: swish, swash, woosh!”

“You guys were watching me!?” He seemed embarrassed.

“Hello? You got a whole ass arena here, and you think we wouldn’t check out all this screaming going on?”

“Tsk. I mean, I would’ve continued on with my projects if only Mikey and April didn’t drag me outside my lab,” Donnie spoke monotonously.

Leo then faced you.

“Wasn’t he cool, (Mama / Papa)!”

You only grinned, arms crossed. “Yes, sweetheart. He was so cool.. as expected of the greatest ninja I’ve ever known.” A flush of red caught Leo’s face as he coughed into his scarf, and everyone else being mildly amused.

“L-Let’s get moving everyone.”

“Now, child, it’s imperative for you to know that you shouldn’t be all too excited about traversing above-ground,” Donnie lectured, while the group arrived by the elevating system. “I assume your Papa and (Mama / Papa) told you about the Kraang?”

“Yes, Uncle Don!”

“Good. Be aware you are always at risk of being caught in their sight. One detected motion and they could be running here—.”

“Why do we have a ladder when we could just use this thing?”

“That’s a ridicu— I mean, good question, Casey.” Donnie saved himself. “The way up the ladder is far more narrow, a better option if you want to exit the base in a more discreet method. What we’re using can take multiple beings at the same time. 

A big risk in return, however, is that we can easily be spotted. When we reach the top, you’ll see that this Eleva-Don has a dome covered in rock and soil.”

“To camoflauge?”

“Hm.. Can’t necessarily consider it camoflauge, but sure, the purpose is to hide the entrance to this base.”

.

.

“How long does it take to go up?”

“..Now that you mentioned it,” Raph wondered. “Shouldn’t we be up a minute ago?”

Donnie hummed. “..Give me a moment— my bad, I forgot I had implemented another button to push, because some morons kept forgetting their equipment.”

The group reached the entrance. It was like the purple’s description. There was a sturdy dome over and a sealed doorway being the only thing separating Casey’s eyes from the outside world. But he had to admit: he felt a bit nervous. His small hand took yours, and you tightened your grip to comfort the boy.

Leo stepped on the other side of Casey, eyes narrowing.

“Casey, before I open the entrance, you must brace yourself,” Donnie warned. “There are hot winds blowing and dry air outside. Move your eyes away from any flying dust too. 

In fact, be quick to cover your eyes. You’re not used to the light.

..Do you understand?”

“Yes, Uncle Don.”

The hinges turned. And as told, a bright light beamed through and the boy had to clasp his hands over. It was blinding, especially for someone who had spent his whole life in dim undergrounds. 

It took a long while. 

He felt the winds drying the moisture off his skin, even the sweat he released.. Bit by bit, Casey’s fingers separated. His sights eventually adjusted to seeing his shoes. Then, from side to side upon his parents’ footwear. Then, some prickly brush nearby. 

And then.. the horizon.

He didn’t know what to expect. He heard all the recreations from his uncles and aunt. He heard more from the refugees. They all said the same thing: red skies and dried.

However, somehow, this was more than he could’ve dreamt of.

There were skeletons, bones of different kinds on the ground. Large boulders to play hide and seek in. Flying cotton balls to make a snow ball.

Casey looked back at the horizon. There afar was a giant city. Broken, yet it was still a magnificent city in his mind. Tall skyscrapers were shattered in half, ragged edges remained.

But his amazement stopped at the sky, bloody-colored skies and dark clouds. Right above New York City was a floating.. ship of some sort. It looked like that one yōkai’s eyeball, always plopping out and back in.

The boy cowered behind your leg. 

He tugged onto your hand. “Hey (Mama / Papa)?” You looked down. “I thought you said you found bunch of things and food here. Why is it so empty?”

“Empty?”

“Yeah.”

“..It might look like that. But I promise you, Casey, there’s more to it than meets the eye. It’s been many years away, so expect that a lot is buried in sand and dirt.” You began leading him. “Come along.”

“..That’s.. kind of boring. What about fighting Kraang and stuff?”

“Hm.. You know..” You just noticed: there were barely monsters in your area. Could they have gone to the city? Best of luck to the others going then.

“How can you find anything?”

“That’s easy,” Mikey spoke up. “The best way is to catch a glimmer, some sort of sparkle on the ground. Sometimes, you’ll find something valuable.”

“..Oh! Like this?” The boy picked up an empty plastic chip bag. Mikey deadpanned.. and cleared his throat. “My poor boy, of course not. That’s useless trash.” For a moment, Doctor Delicate Touch came out. He snatched it away and threw it behind him.

“If you see anything more like that, toss it right behind you. Or even better, don’t pick it up. Trust me, it’ll save you so much time.” 

Casey slumped. This wasn’t the finders-keepers experience he was... He shook his head. Whatever, he should just follow you instead—.

Another sparkle in the distance. This one gleamed brighter than that chip bag.

He glimpsed around. You were a couple of feet away. Mikey disappeared. His Papa in a couple of feet in the opposite direction. The red-eared turtle appeared to be casting his gaze at the landscape, arms crossed. The others? Didn’t follow their path.

At least, he had his parents.

The boy moved closer. It was in an open box? There was some really smooth-looking cloth on the inside. Cushioned in it, there was.. a long necklace.. He recognized what a necklace should look be, many refugees had one of their own to cherish. 

Oh, hold on.. there were two necklaces?

He examined the pendant. Shiny. Silver-like. It looked like a heart, except there seemed to be a gash right in the middle. “Oh..” 

It was broken..

.

.

An idea lit up.

Casey took the box, brushing off the sediment, closed it, and shoved it down one of his pockets. Maybe Uncle Don could help him.

“Oho? What do you have there, Case?” He flinched when he heard his father from behind. “Don’t think I didn’t see that.”

“Don’t scare me, Papa!”

“Pfft. You’re just like (Mama / Papa).”

The boy fiddled his fingers, before reaching back into the pocket. He pulled out the box. “I found this necklace.. but.. it’s broken. I thought Uncle Don might fix it!”

Leo took the box from his hands. He chuckled.

“It’s not a broken necklace, buddy. These are couple necklaces.”

“Couple necklaces?”

“They can be two separate ones.. Put them together though..” Leo clicked the two halves in place. “..And they become a whole.”

“They look.. a lot shinier together!” Casey admired.

“Yeah.” Leo’s eyes squinted as he smiled. “It does, doesn’t it?”

“What about ‘friendship’ necklaces? Are those any different?”

The red-eared turtle blinked. He realized he assumed these were meant for couples. Maybe it was because everything that came in pairs reminded him of he and—.

“Oh, I have an idea!” Casey proposed, grabbing the box from Leo’s hand. He faced himself in your direction. “Maybe these can be for you and (Ma / Pa)—mmrph!”

“Hm?” Your head turned towards them. “Did you two call me?”

“Uh! No no!” Leo frantically waved his hand off. “We didn’t say anything.. at all! You can keep doing your own thing, (Name).”

Blinked once, twice. You shrugged, eyes down on the ground.

Leo sighed, releasing his other hand from the kid’s mouth. “Bah! Papa! What was that for? Don’t you show (Mama / Papa) about this? They’ll love it a lot!”

“Shh shh.. I’m sure they will, Case. But.. I have another idea on how we can show them. Okay?” The red-eared turtle proceeded to whisper into the boy’s ear, hoping you wouldn’t catch it if you tried.

The seven-year-old clasped his mouth, eyes sparkling. He nodded his head.

.

.

“Find anything, (Name)?” April asked, the group rendezvousing.

You sighed. “Only packets of vegetable seeds.”

“Hey, more food, the better.”

“Let’s just hope Todd will be able to work his magic on them.”

“Knowin’ he raised who-knows-how-many puppies back then, m’sure he could handle a couple of plants.”

“What about you?”

“The city’s tough to get through as ever. We only got a couple of blankets and scraps of metal for Don. You didn’t come to the city?”

“With a child who barely knows how to nagivate out here?”

“Point taken. How’s the kid doing?”

“..I.. I think he likes the rummaging.” 

“Why’d you hesitate to say that? Giving me a scare for a sec.” April laughed behind her hand. “That’s good, that’s good. Gives ‘nother reason for him to go out more.”

“Just as long as he watches himself.”

“Have some faith in him, (Name).”

“Of course.” You closed your eyes. “Commander O’Neil.”

“H-Hey!” She wrapped her arm around your neck, while you laughed. “Thought I said I don’t want my own friends calling me that.”

“Do you not like it?” 

“Yeah I do, but..” April pulled away and rubbed her arm. “I don’t want you guys to forget what we all were before.”

Your breath paused.

She continued, “We were all close friends. If we start calling each other these formalities, I.. don’t know how different we’ll treat each other.”

“...”

“Man.” April almost felt her eyes sting. “Young me wouldn’t be this emotional over some title. Only in our late twenties, and we’re already talkin’ like we’re gonna die.”

You chuckled. “This world’s making us old, isn’t it?”

“Sure is..” 

Your friend slowly faced the base entrance. “Guess we better return. Boys! Let’s head back!” she called out. They moved along, except for Leo and Casey. They stood in place and gave a knowing look at each other.

You raised an eyebrow.

“Leo! Casey!” April shouted again, only to be stopped by Donnie. He pushed her off, whispering something in her ear. Raph, strolling behind and past you, tapped your shoulder. Then, Mikey winked.

You were confused.

What was going on?

“(Name),” your blue called, signalling for you to come with them. “Casey and I got something to show you.”

They led to a short hill, where the three of you sat watching the horizon. The whole world might’ve changed dramatically, sunrises and sets still exist.

“Vegetable seeds weren’t the only thing you found, was it.”

“How perceptive.” You snorted. “No.. there was something else. When we walked further an hour ago, there was something I recognize..”

You pulled out something wrapped in a brown cloth and unwapped it.

It was.. Cassandra’s hockey stick.

Leo’s eyes widened. “You.. No way..”

“I can’t believe it was intact after many years..” You teared up, holding the stick close to your chest. “I thought it disappeared with her..”

“..She probably dropped it, switching to her hyperbeam guns..,” Leo guessed. “You chose not to tell April?”

“Hey.. I get emotional talking about anything related to Cassandra to anyone else. You’re the only other guy who knew exactly what happened anyway..”

Casey was perplexed. 

He tugged onto the blue scarf. “..Papa? Why’s (Mama / Papa) crying over a.. wooden stick? Who is she talking about?”

“Don’t ask me, buddy. Your (Mama / Papa) knows this person a lot more than I do.”

You moved your arm, pulling the boy close to you. “Casey.. There’s something I’ve been meaning to tell you for a while..” You gazed down at him. “Did you know you have another parent?”

“...”

Casey was absolutely shocked, flabbergasted, open jaw and wide eyes.

Meanwhile, Leo was dying on the inside. You couldn’t help but laugh as well. “Heyy! Are you trying to joke around?” 

“Sorry sorry. I didn’t mean to laugh,” you quieted down. “But it’s true.”

You pulled out a photograph. There was you, Leo, and everyone else.. except for an unfamiliar woman with piercings and a paler complexion in darker clothing. Casey took a closer look. “She’s also my Mom?”

“Yes, she is.”

Casey then glared at Leo, who was taken aback by the kid’s offended expression. “..(Mama / Papa),” he not-so-quietly whispered. “..Did Papa cheat on you?”

The red-eared turtle coughed hard. He was ready to argue, charge at the boy for even thinking he would do that to you. Where did he even learn the concept of cheating? Those gossiping girls who somehow remembered everything from their high school career?

“Hey—!”

“Don’t worry, he may seem like the kind, but he would never.” You teasingly smiled, testing Leo. “You actually have two fathers.”

“How come he isn’t in the photo?”

“..He just.. doesn’t like pictures.”

“Oh.”

“Mhm.”

“What about other Mom? How come I’ve never seen her?”

You sighed. “Casey.. You know how sometimes Papa and I go out to make sure no Kraang comes near us?”

“Yeah?”

“Do you miss us when we’re gone?”

The boy fiddled his fingers. “Even though Uncle Mikey.. Uncle Raph.. Auntie April.. and sometimes Uncle Don take good care of me, I still wish you were there with me.”

“And we miss you too.” You tightened your embrace. “That’s because we love you, Casey. We are both always worried that something can happen and we won’t be there to help you. 

But we also have a job to do for everyone, to make sure we are all safe.”

“..Is that why other Mom is not here?”

“Correct. But that doesn’t mean she doesn’t love you. In fact, she was willing to fight the whole world to make sure you’re in good hands.” You tapped his chest. “She had to fight the Kraang too. She knew she won’t be able to see you for a long time. Because she loves you so much, she wants only the most capable to raise you.”

“...It’s okay, (Mama / Papa). You don’t have to say it like that.”

You felt yourself freeze.

“I’m growing up. I can handle it,” Casey assured. “..Is she up in the stars?”

“..She is.”

His arms wrapped around your back and Leo’s shell. “Well.. In my heart, you’ll always be my (Mama / Papa) and Papa to me. Nothing will ever change how much I love you.”

You inhaled, struggling to keep a stoic face.

Leo covered half of his face in his scarf. In the end, even he couldn’t hide his feelings. He decided to give you both a sudden big hug himself. “Gah! Come here, you two! You really know how to make a grown man cry.”

“Ah, Leo! You’re.. hurting.. our lungs..!” In reluctance, the turtle released you. “Look what happened, your Papa’s turning into an sobbing mess.”

“This was a heartwarming moment for me, (Name). Don’t you dare judge.”

Casey bit his lip. This was when he made his move.

“Oooh. Did you know Papa can also turn into romance?”

Leo froze.

“Hey hey, hold on there, buddy..” A nervous chuckle. “Couldn’t you give a cue? We’re.. doing this right now, no warning?” 

“But this was your plan!” Casey countered. “Stand up, both of you!” You followed along. The hockey stick set aside for now. At this point, better not to ask more questions.

“(Mama / Papa).. Papa says he has something special to show you.” The boy gave Leo a box.. Indiscreet as he was, he tried. A grin appeared on his face when he scurried off behind a nearby rock.

“So.. I’m guessing this had to be related to my name called back there.” You put your hands on your hips.

“He’s still learning his social cues. He’ll get his self-awareness from me, you’ll see.” Leo cleared his throat. “Anyways.. (Name).. it’s been a long time since we got together. Even longer when we first met.. say about twelve years ago. 

Gotta admit.. first impressions weren’t special.

You were just another high school kid. You were the second human I know to ever like hanging out with us mutants. You just seemed like another person to me.

But you were.. considerate.. kind. I wasn’t used to having someone actually listening to me, ‘cause we were all idiots back then. The gang and I would only fool around, bite each other and all.

It wasn’t until you.. said something.. Those words to me..” He felt his hand reaching out. 

You took it in both of yours. There was a light in your eyes. You remembered exactly what that moment was. Your voice slipped, 

“..You have always been my champion..”

Leo’s grip tightened as he immediately went down on both knees. “No one.. no one’s ever said that to me... I couldn’t help it anymore. 

I couldn’t help looking your way every time you were there.

As much as I hate to swallow my pride, I couldn’t help but act all cool and badass whenever you’re looking.. even though most times didn’t work out so well.

You were the only one who believed in me.. and I knew it has to be you.”

Then, Leo released your hands. He took the box out and opened it. “I know it isn’t an overrated ring.. but..” The two heart halves revealing themselves on separate chains.

“(Name).. Will you.. marry me?” 

.

.

.

“..Yes.” You were tearing up again. “Yes! But..!” 

His heart suddenly chipped itself off. That last word was never assumed to be a good sign. “Is there something wrong? ..God.. did I do this too soon?”

You, though, were trying not to snicker. “No no. It’s just.. you’re supposed to propose on one knee, Leo! Not both!”

“They chose to question that over the whole ‘apocalypse proposal’?” Donnie muttered to the others. “How does anyone even consider that as romantic?”

“Donnie, shut your aro-ace ass.” 

Your blue turned red. Embarassed, his face was flushed. He groaned, “Not the teasing right now. Is being the only person to get me on both not enough for you?” 

“Hm. We’ll just have to see how we do in bed.”

Leo choked. 

“WHAT—.”

“(NAME), NOT IN FRONT OF THE KID!” Raph screamed.

Before You Go | Future Leo X GN!Reader (Part IV)

A/N: Any constructive criticism is appreciated.

Summary: You’re both adopting-parents of Casey. What was expected to be a calm rainy night turned out to be more ominous than you would like.

Reader: Gender-neutral pronouns are used, except the terms “(Mama / Papa)” are also used. Second POV.

Pairing: Rise! Future! Leonardo X Reader

Warnings: None.

Word Count:  ~960

Parts: One / Two / Three / Four / Five / ...

~

All was quiet..

For once in a long time, rain poured down onto New York City and its boroughs. It almost felt like a rainforest. The climate growing hotter over the decade had the water vaporized into a fog. Though you found it suffocating, it prevented the Kraang from seeing clearly. 

Except.. that was only an assumption.

There were many things undiscovered about the alien race and their weaknesses. For now, your base was once again deemed safe.

The red-eared turtle laid on a rock-hard bed, snoring soundly. It was recent when some refugees ran across large segments of concrete. Used not just for sturdy walls, but to replace having to lay on soil. It wasn’t exactly comfortable, but you’d never felt any cleaner.

Beside Leo was your sleeping form, arms around Casey. Or so he assumed.. up until something— rather someone— sharply jabbed into his jaw.

THUB.

“Augh!” Pain surged in his teeth and Leo recoiled. He groaned. He hissed. He was ready to yell, ready to complain, but then.. came a young voice to his inner ears.

“..Papa.”

The turtle loosened up his shoulders.

A loud huff out.

It was Casey. The going-onto-five toddler crawled onto his plastron and managed to kick his chin. Leo did not mind him climbing up, except, him rolling around….

“Case,” Leo whispered, “Come on, buddy. I’m trying to sleep here.” The red-eared slider dragged his hand across his face, his fingertips lingering on his chin as if it would help soothe the pain.

Then, he picked Casey up and positioned him between your sleeping form and his. However, the toddler whined and flailed his arms, thrashing not only onto Leo but also your back.

“Noo! Don’t sleep Papa! I don’t want to sleep yet.”

You mumbled in your sleep. That was the cue for Leo to hold Casey down, fearing you would wake up mad. Sleep was precious in a time like this. He knew it himself how much losing any could affect your ability to fight.

He sighed, grimacing. “God, you’re a hyper one. I miss that energy.” This was definitely Cassandra’s son. “Man, if only I know how to sing a lullaby.”

Casey huffed and climbed back onto Leo’s plastron. “What is it, buddy?”

“Red.. stripe,” he muttered.

Leo was taken aback when the kid began to tap his hands up his neck and onto his red markings. This genuinely made the turtle embarrassed, flustered. Sometimes, he forgot he had those features.

At least he was reminded of how unique he was.. and how much you would talk about your infatuation for his stripes back then.

“Cool..”

“You just noticed them now, huh?”

“Where is it from?”

“I..” Leo wouldn’t know how to answer that.

“Can I get one?”

Ah.

“Ohoho. When you go to sleep, bud.” Leo snorted. “You get these cool stripes if you let your Papa and (Mama / Papa) sleep.”

The toddler grumbled, throwing hands at the turtle’s plastron again. “But I don’t want to! Why do I have to sleep?”

Thump..

“Shh shh.. Sleep is important, bud. Do you want to know why we have to stay underground?” This piqued Casey’s interest. He’d never seen the overground, only heard it from the refugees’ stories. He’d also heard about the Kraang, though generally that they were enemies.

“Why?”

“Because the Kraang are monsters who don’t get enough sleep.”

“R-Really?”

“Mhm,” Leo warned. “Stories have it that if you don’t try to get enough sleep, you’ll slowly become crazy and a Kraang—.”

He immediately stopped once he noticed Casey tearing up a bit. The kid whimpered, “I don’t want to be a Kraang..”

“Ah, don’t worry too much about it, bud. If you at least try not to bother others and fall asleep, then you won’t become one.” Leo tapped onto Casey’s chest. “You see (Mama / Papa) over here?”

“Yah.”

“They’re sleeping. You don’t want to get them mad, do you?” Leo brought Casey closer to his face and tapped their noses together. He smiled when the child calmed down and began to giggle. 

“No, Papa.. I want (Mama / Papa) to stay the way they are.”

“Now that’s a good kid.”

—THUMP! THUMP! 

The ground suddenly shook. The dust and dirt falling from the dugout’s ceiling had Leo pushing himself upright.

His heart dropped. Oh no.

“Papa.. What’s that noise—?”

“Shh shh. Probably just Uncle Raph turning over. Get to sleep, bud.” He brushed the bit of dirt off of Casey’s back and carefully placed the toddler on the bed. “Papa’s only gonna check on something real quick.” 

“But.. where are you going!” Casey cried out his questions but was ignored. His father had already hurried his way through the underground base.

.

.

.

“Lee?” The younger brother stepped out of his room rubbing his eyes.

If Mikey heard that.. Leo was not going crazy then. Those noises.. they’d been getting close. 

“What’s going..?” 

Midway in his question, he quickly quieted down, seeing a harrowing expression on Leo’s face. Mikey had a feeling; he had some bad feeling when his bed shook. Was he willing to accept the worst however? He would never be able to. 

“Don’t tell me..” Mikey followed behind. 

“Lee. Lee! It’s not what I think it is, right?!” 

“I-I don’t.. I don’t know.” His older brother’s chest felt heavy as worse outcomes clouded his head. “We.. we’ve gotta check.”

“No no.. God no..” The box turtle prayed. “We can’t move! This was our place for so long!” Leo had never heard nor seen his brother so alarmed, fear behind those wide-eyes. The idea of leaving behind all those memories.. 

It was disturbing him.

“Mikey. We might not have a choice. It’s everyone’s safety above all else.”

“But where do we run to then?!”

Leo winced. He did not want to think further about this right now. 

The two climbed to the top of a ladder, a sewer plate that met their base with the overgrounds. Reluctant, Leo lifted the plate, eyeing around only to see mist against a red sky, glowing faintly under the moonlight.

“Crap. The fog’s not just a disadvantage to the Kraang,” he cursed.

“Anything, Leo?”

“Can’t see anything..” Leo tapped his foot on one of the rungs of the sewer ladder, and his brother began to climb down.

“..They’re not gonna stop,” Mikey mumbled.

He watched his older brother grimace, indicating he was still have a hard time accepting their situation: everyone seeking refuge underground in fear.. having so few resources and life left in them.

Mikey narrowed his eyes. 

“C’mon,” he spoke, reaching the floor, “You said to put everyone’s safety’s above all else.” He placed a hand on his brother’s shoulder. “I know anything can happen, but.. as long as we take care of each other, we can push through this, Lee.”

.

.

There was a long silence before Leo took a deep breath. His hand reached over and returning Mikey’s touch, letting him know.. he was still there. 

“..Right. Thanks, Mike.”

Separating ways, Leo stumbled back to your bedroom with half-lidded eyes, expecting for Casey to have fallen asleep in your arms. 

Which did happen, just not in the way he was imagining.

You were up leaning by the room entrance. The kid was snoring in your arms as you held him close to your chest.

“Agh...” A drained laugh escaped his throat. “And here I was hoping he could be trusted with letting you sleep.”

“Don’t worry,” you smiled. “I’m not mad.. this time.” Leo would’ve returned it, if only he hadn’t seen your expression falter. “They’re trying to find us, aren’t they? They know we’re alive.”

Leo winced again.

“I have to admit.. I’m scared, Leo,” your voice wavered. You could feel it: the outcome was slowly becoming inevitable.

“No.. Stop that, (Name).” He held your shoulders, his thumb rubbing to soothe you. 

One of his hands then lifted your chin up as he leaned closer to kiss you on your lips. “Don’t worry,” he whispered, “I won’t let anything happen to you, Casey, or anyone else.. I won’t let them win.”

You furrowed your brows. “We. We won’t let them win.”

You let yourself get pulled close to Leo. You felt his arms wrap around your body, while you stilled yours around Casey, a tight embrace that showed more fear than reassurance. 

Broken Glass | Cyno X GN!Reader

A/N: The man was not coming home after 76 pity, so out of my sorrow, I believe he deserves this. I was also conflicted between Cyno being the General Mahamatra or the former one. No worries, I got it eventually. Remember that constructive criticism is appreciated and enjoy!

Summary: Cyno’s regrets for your fall-out returned when the glass of a picture frame shattered.

Genre: Angst

Reader: Second POV. Gender-neutral pronouns if any. 

Warning: Argument. Falling-out.

Word Count: ~380

~

Glass shattered on the floor.

A picture frame had fallen off the bedside table when Cyno kicked the sheets. He frowned, moving himself off the bed to pick up the pieces.

His breath hitched suddenly once he found the photo of you and him, and his fingers stopped reaching out.

His eyes stared upon the photo— one taken for a time when you and he smiled. His chin was resting on your head while you leaned against his chest.

Oh, how sorrowful.

Cyno scowled. He did not want to be reminded of his regrets again. The broken glass over the both of your faces was another stab from life.

If only he hadn’t yelled at you like that. If only he knew how to control his frustrations.

It did not help that for a long time, he had been shaking those emotions off. After all, Cyno believed as the current General Mahamatra that he should not let them cloud his logic.

“Step away from him, (Name).”

You, his partner, were in his way of punishing a scholar. You went out of your own to defend the very person that committed injustice to the Akademiya.

“Cyno, show him some empathy. He was doing it for his children!”

‘This was your fault.’

He narrowed his eyes and scoffed. The General pulled back his polearm, releasing the scholar. “I’m heading back to Sumeru City.” Anger dripped from his voice as Cyno walked past you without a single glance to the eyes.

This single action of his stung your heart. But one way or another, you had to stand for your beliefs: the Akademiya did not have good of intentions as people would assume. 

The scholar behind you felt thankful for your support, yet there was a sense of guilt for the strain between you and the General. You chose to laugh it off, something that did not reach your eyes.

Your walk back to Aaru Village was silent, up until you and Cyno had a private conversation.

Cyno threw his polearm onto the ground. He stormed towards you, seething, “Do you realize the kind of stupid decisions you’re making lately? The point of my position as a Mahamatra is to bring these people to justice for their crimes. The Akademiya will have my head yet again for letting go of a scholar.”

“The Akademiya’s regulations are nonsense, Cyno. Don’t believe that everything are serious matters. He bought and sold the Divine Knowledge Capsule to bring food to the table. It was a one-time thing, and he never intended to use it!”

“And yet they need me as General Mahamatra.” A dangerous frown on his lips.

“You’re not listening. The Akademiya are not who you think they are!” you yelled. “You always focus on tracking these scholars down, but not a single question about why the Akademiya is so persistent on finding this Divine Knowledge Capsule.”

“Knowledge Capsules have dangerous effects, and I expected you to know that, (Name).”

“Shohre told me they’ve chosen to prioritize the Divine Capsule over the others.” Your brows furrowed. “She told me they’ve chosen you and you only to handle this. What happened to her and the others?”

Cyno clenched his teeth. “It’s reasonable they would choose someone who always finds their target no matter what. But you.. you are always in my way,” he scowled. “You’ve never had these views for the Akademiya until recently. Would you mind explaining yourself?”

“I can’t tell you that now, but you have to listen to me when I advise you to distance yourself from the Akademiya, Cyno.” You stepped closer, your hands held together close to your chest.

“You,” he pushed you away by your hands, taking you aback, “have no concrete evidence, do you.”

“...” 

Cyno took your silence as an answer. The conflicted look on your face said everything. 

He scoffed, walking past you again.

“I can’t believe I’m partners with the likes of you.”

A response that he knew would break your heart. 

No matter how many times he tried to convince himself that your fall-out was your fault, Cyno realized he was slowly fading off from contact with the Akademiya. From that point, “former General Mahamatra” was more his title. 

His room in Aaru Village became cold and gray, contradicting the hot and bright weather in the desert.

And to the man gazing upon the floor in silence.. he couldn’t bring himself to pick up the glass. His reluctancy moved him to lay on his side, gripping the empty, lifeless bedsheets.

Before You Go | Future Leo X GN!Reader (Part III)

A/N: I am conflicted over using gender-neutral terms to replace “Mama,” because I haven’t found a single one that holds the same vibe as the initial. If there are any suggestions, let me know! Remember that constructive criticism is always appreciated.

Summary: You’re both adopting-parents of Casey. Leonardo returned from a patrol to find his family surrounding Casey, about to say his first words.

Reader: Gender-neutral pronouns are used, except the terms “Mama” and “mother-figure are used as well. Second POV.

Pairing: Rise! Future! Leonardo X Reader

Warning(s): Insecure of one’s parenting.

Word Count: ~1980

Parts: One / Two / Three / Four / Five / ...

~

“No way, is Casey saying his first words?” Michelangelo gasped. He was followed by his older brother, coming back from an area patrol together. 

That question stopped Leo in his tracks. "H-Hold on, really?"

In front of him, April and his brothers surrounded you, while you sat 2-year-old Casey on your stronger arm. He glanced around curiously at the small crowd, but paid no mind as he played with your hair.

"Bwuah.. bah." Sounds bubbling from his mouth. You smiled. "I have a good feeling, Mikey."

Leo stared from afar. 

..It had been so long since he felt this kind of warmth. All the smiles on his family’s faces were enough to give nostalgia.. back to when life was relatively.. normal.

"What'cha doing, standing over there!" April called out, waving her arm up. "This is a moment of a lifetime! Don't tell me you're backing out of being a parent." Donnie snickered from hearing her teases.

Leo shook his head. Then, he rolled his eyes. "Hey hey, c'mon, don't put me down like that, April. I'm not some deadbeat guy."

Being the Doctor Feelings he once proclaimed, Mikey held his hands to his chest. A bubbly smile grew. "Ohh! I’m getting it now: Lee’s having his inner, emotional, father-moment!"

And of course, a dark blush appeared on his face, embarrassed he was figured out so easily. Granted, he was talking about his own brother and Doctor Feelings. "Yeah yeah, whatever you say, little brother," he huffed. "Let's not tease me right now, guys. I just got back from a patrol with the others."

Leo strolled closer to you from behind, head leaning on your shoulder. "So.. what’s he’s saying?"

"Yet to find out." You slowly rocked your body back and forth.

“Y’know,” April wondered, “I’ve been thinking: aren’t kids supposed to start talking before they turn two?”

You and Leo felt yourselves freezing at the realization. Supposed to? But what about Casey? Did this imply that you two hadn’t done enough?

Fortunately, Donatello noticed your unease. 

“Ahem,” he cleared his throat, “I mean, we are living in an underground base during an alien invasion. I doubt any of us would own time to cater to a human child full-time.” Donnie raised his “eyebrows” once, giving the message to April.

“Yeah yeah, that makes sense.”

"..Moving on...

Allow me to make a guess: he’ll begin by praising my name and intellect with, 'I love you Donatello Von Ryan and you're the greatest being this universe has to offer,'" Donnie claimed right from his heart and ego.

"God dang, Donnie, I swear," Raph murmured, "if this kid grows up to praise you like some sort of egotistical saint—."

"Scoffs! That could mean one thing for sure, Raphael: Casey will grow to be one of the most intelligent children, taught under by yours truly."

April put her hand on her hip. "Huh. Not gonna lie, I still can't believe Cassandra would name him after herself."

"Doesn't sound far from her, really," you chuckled. "In fact.. I'd be surprised if she managed to make a whole different one."

"Bah.. boo mah.."

"Ooh, ooh!" Mikey leaned his head closer to Casey. "He's going to say something!"

"Putting my bets on 'Mama!'" April raised her hand. Donnie, on the other hand, rolled his eyes and feigned, "Wow! That is so original. Yawn."

"Uh, excuse you." Leonardo looked offended. "Where's the amor for the father-figure?"

You deadpanned. “Since when have we established the ‘Mama’ label?”

"Ever since Leo kept calling himself ‘Papa,’” April chirped. “Sorry, Leo, being the mother-figure, (Name) comes before you." 

"Hm. Raph’s gotta agree."

"Seriously? Even my own brother!?"

"No worries, Lee, I got you!" Mikey leeched onto him.

Donnie coughed. “Continuing to believe he’ll say my name.”

Your eye twitched. “Hey, don’t be disappointed if he says a whole ‘nother word, you guys.” The baby laughed, his giggles drawing the attention of everyone from their debate. 

"Luh..," he blubbered, "ooo."

“...”

"Oh my gosh!" Mikey tightened his grip onto Leo. It was slowly making him struggle to breathe. "Did you hear—? Are you guys thinking—? I think he just said, 'Love youu!'"

"Sorry to break your bubble, but I'm pretty sure they're random syllables, Michael."

"Don't be so pessimistic! We should be happy! Casey’s finally said his first words to us, and they’re ones of love!" "Ew."

Mikey smacked Donnie.

"..Next word has gotta be 'Mama.'" April crossed her arms.

"Uh, I think you mean 'Papa.'"

You sweat-dropped. “I don’t think the debate’s necessary, guys.”

“Leave 'em,” Raph laughed, grabbing your attention. “This is probably one of the only times we’ll ever have our good moments together.” You smiled, watching Mikey and Donnie getting into a passive-aggressive argument themselves. “How’re you and Leo doing with the kid?” Raph asked, inching his giant finger closer to Casey, who proceeded to chew on it.

“The good thing is.. taking care of him is starting come naturally.. and Leo’s still taking my advice to get some rest before we switch roles.” 

Raph found you delaying in your response.

“But. I’m guessing there’s one somewhere.”

“Agh.. It’s just.. Leo seems to be doubting himself again. I was hoping for a chance to talk to him, but maybe.. this time isn’t the right time to do so.”

The snapping turtle moved his hand to your shoulder. “No worries, (Name).” His thumb gently rubbing your nape. “Leave it to me this time.”

“..Okay.”

"Oooh, don't you dare start with me, Leo,” she warned. “It's 'Mama.'"

"'Papa.'"

"'Mama.' Guess you don’t love your lover enough."

“Woah woah, hey!” Leo gasped. Flabbergasted from how April spat that out out of nowhere. "Are you being a mis.. misogynist!?"

“‘Misandrist,’” Donnie corrected.

"'Mama.'"

"Mah-mah!"

“...”

Everyone’s eyes flickered over to Casey, face beaming in the dim cavern.

Out of the stunned group, metallic arms rose from Donnie’s battleshell and tore up a sheet of paper apart. You had no idea where did that come from. "Sigh. Of course, my dreams of raising a follower is demolished once again. Back to the drawing board with my robotic—."

"AWW, he said, ‘Mama!'" The box turtle leaped. 

"Woo! Raph and I call for the air-conditioned room privileges!" April cheered, high-fiving the snapping turtle, who grinned. “We called it!”

“Mahmah!”

“Yes, Casey. It’s me.” An upward quirk of your lips and you snuggled your nose with his. “Mama is here.” The toddler squealed. 

It was this moment that none of you failed to see how Leo’s so-called smile falter. A distant look in his eyes as he came to lower his gaze. 

Raph nodded towards you and April. The both of you returned it, heading into one of the tunnels in silence.

That left the brothers.

It wasn’t until Leo finally tilted his head up that he registered the quietness and lack of your presence. He groaned. “Guys, c’mon. I know what you’re doing, and I don’t need another talk right now.”

“Leo,” Mikey reassured. “It’s okay to talk about your feelings with us, y’know. We’re your brothers! Your family! And family supports each other.”

“Besides,” Donnie crossed his arms, leaving one of his metallic arms to comfort his brother’s back, “it’s about time you quit ruining the mood whenever Casey is brought up.”

Raph hummed. “You’re thinkin’ too much on it, Leo. You know whatever the kid says don’t make you any less of a parent.”

Leo huffed. “I know, I know.”

“Uh huh.” Donnie scoffed. “If you really know that that’s the case, then what’s the actual problem?”

“Nothing.”

“We know it’s not ‘nothing.’”

“...”

“Okay, we can do this then.” Mikey held his brother’s shoulders. The Doctor Feelings side revealing. “I’ll ask the questions you answer by nodding ‘yes’ or ‘no.’

Is it about Casey?” Leo nodded ‘yes.’

“Okay.. Is it about his first words?” He shook his head ‘no.’

Mikey held his chin, pondering. “Is there a specific issue?” Once again, Leo shook his head. The box turtle figured it must be a general conflict. You told him not long ago that his brother was being reserved as of late. You often confided in him your troubles.

“Is this also about (Name)?”

He nodded.

“Is this also about the Kraang?”

..He nodded. This time, Leo proceeded to respond. “Nothing’s the same ever since they invaded.”

“Of course—.” Raph eyed Donnie.

“We could’ve had a normal life. We all could’ve gone for ice cream, jumping to a pool, see snow again.. But look what came to us instead.” A bitter tone. “This isn’t the life I wanted for all of us. This isn’t the life that Casey and (Name) deserves. I-I can’t accept it.

It doesn’t help to think back on their and Cassandra’s words.”

“What do you mean?”

Leo narrowed his eyes. “Cassandra told me (Name) wanted a kid. (Name) told me they couldn’t risk taking care of one in this fucked up place.”

“And they have Casey—.”

“But I know they’d be happier if things were different.”

“Oh? You mean if (Name) doesn’t have fertility issues?”

All eyes on Donnie. “..Huh?”

“Hey!” Mikey exclaimed. “How’d you know that? I thought I’m the one with secrets.”

“Well, Michael, being forced to stick down here and manage weaponry and defenses means keeping track of everyone’s biological systems.”

“..You.. kept trackers on us?”

“Correction: in you. Do I have to remind you that I’m the reason you all managed to survive this long?”

“Ah..” Raph was stunned. “Ah, uh, moving on..

Yeah, we would be happier if we didn’t have the Kraang up on our asses. But even then, this is our reality now. 

We can’t go back. 

And sometimes, your best option is to deal with it and make the most out of what you have. You got that?”

Leo’s breath hitched. He glanced upon reassuring smiles on his brothers’ faces (much less of a smile on Donnie’s, but the aura was there).

“You may be the leader, Leo, but I’m still your older brother,” Raph spoke softly.

A sigh left the red-eared turtle, and he pulled them all into a tight embrace. “Thanks hermanos.”

.

.

.

"Lee-oh," you pronounced slowly, leaning close to Casey. You hadn’t noticed your leader in blue lingering next to the cavern entrance. You always managed to forget that Donnie built an entire underground system for water and air. Yet, your resources weren’t enough to make decent rooms. 

The baby blinked and giggled. "Eeee.."

You wiggled his arms. "Lee-oh."

"Ohh.."

Leo couldn't hold back the wide grin on his face. His heart melted. “I always knew you love me, (Name)," he spoke up.

"God, Leo! You scared me!” you cursed, holding Casey back in the comfort of your arms. "..How are you feeling?”

“Comforted.. thanks to my brothers.”

Once he walked closer to your side, you leaned up to kiss him. “For you to know you’re making a great father-figure. And that you have nothing to worry for about me or Casey.”

Leo blinked and blinked. 

Then, being shy, he hid his growing blush behind his blue scarf. 

It was one you made for his birthday five years ago from a ball of yarn that Todd found, rummaging through wrecked shops. Even after that much time, Leo still became flustered around you.

“Bah.. lo...”

His left arm wrapped around your waist. “I’m glad to have you here, (Name).” You leaned into his plastron. “The same goes for you, Leo.”

“Ee.. oh.”

“Mhm—. Hold on.” The red-eared turtle sat upright. “Did he—?”

“Ee.. oh!” Casey sounded. Lacked a consonant, but the idea was there. 

You chuckled, seeing your boyfriend’s wide-eyed reaction. “He said my name!” he cheered, pulling the toddler from your arms to hold him up. “Leo,” he said.

“Ee-oh!”

“If you were worried about him not saying ‘Papa,’ I’m sure it’s only because April kept repeating ‘Mama’ back there,” you concluded. “Not sure if I’m completely comfortable with the whole label thing.”

“Being called ‘Mama?’”

“Hm.. If I ever feel like changing that up, I can wait until Casey’s a bit older to comprehend better.”

“Ohoho~.” Leo grinned, bringing the baby closer. “Say, ‘Papa.’”

“Ah..”

“‘Papa.’“

“Pa.. wah...”

“‘Papa.’”

“Papah!”

Before You Go | Future Leo X GN!Reader (Part II)

A/N: Constuctive criticism is appreciated.

Summary: You’re both adopting-parents of Casey. Leonardo was all exhausted from handling a flustered Casey.

Reader: Gender-neutral pronouns are used. Second POV.

Pairing: Rise! Future! Leonardo X Reader

Warning(s): None.

Word Count: ~1140

Parts: One / Two / Three / Four / Five / ...

~

"Argh.." 

Leonardo heaved when the baby in his arms continued to cry. The headaches from his last time dealing with Casey returned. "Come on now, tell me what is it.."

He gave him what he could offer: the attempt to feed the boy, pat his back to release any gas, and even spin him around for trial-and-error’s sake. Yet for a long while, Leo hadn’t been able to stop those tears.

And already were there other worries in mind.

He muttered, "Don't you embarrass me in front of (Name).. or anyone else for that matter.." 

Out of nowhere, Casey cried much louder and thrashed around in Leo’s arms. His eyes widened upon the commotion. The turtle hushed. “Hey hey! Calm down a bit.. Everything’s alright."

God, how hypocritical.

He had dark circles underneath his eyes, half-lidded from lack of sleep and much worry. He dragged his palm across his face and muttered, "God, what was the song they sang to those kids..?"

Leo promised you this time, he would take care of the baby, while you would be busy gathering food and patrolling. It was practically switching shifts, but you seemed a bit too excited about it. The problem? Well.. he understood why and realized he'd probably have an easier time dealing with kids much older than two years old.

"If you're not hungry, or lonely, or—." He grimaced and groaned. "Ohh man.. don't tell me it's about the diaper—."

"I changed it when you went to take a quick breather outside," you spoke.

Leo jumped. Tired eyes widening again. “(Name)! What are you— you shouldn’t be back so soon. I had....” He yawned. “I had everything under control.”

You raised an eyebrow.

He was exhausted. It was obvious. 

Even then, you played along. He was the one who suggested for you to take that day out after all. He wanted to spend time with Casey too. And you wouldn’t dare discourage Leo like that.

“I know, I know. Sometimes, it doesn’t hurt for the either of us to check in though.” You gave him a peck. “Besides, you haven’t gotten enough sleep lately.”

He grunted. “I’m fine. A little less sleep’s not gonna kill me.”

“It tells me something when you chose to leave Casey in Donnie’s hands while you were away for a second.”

“Y-You were here when that happened too?”

Leonardo cleared his throat. "No, no. Everything's under control, (Name)," he proclaimed, lying through his teeth. "Casey and I are doing just fine..!" 

Unfortunately, the baby's teary expression said the complete opposite.

"You're having trouble with him, aren't you?"

He scoffed. "Am not."

"Are too."

"Am not."

"Are too."

"Did you get the sack of potatoes from Todd?"

"Yeah." You deadpanned. "I did. They’re gonna get sick of eating them, but we don’t have much of an option— don't go changing the subject on me! Leo, you look dead! You didn’t even get some rest before taking on Casey!”

Leo huffed. “Why are you making him sound like some video game boss?”

“Let’s get you some sleep.” You tugged him towards a small dugout. It was supposed to be your bedroom, but seeing how much had collasped in this underground base from battles, it wasn’t nice nor clean.

“No, I can’t sleep.. I can’t—.”

You took the baby from his arms, and while he was confused, shoved him onto a shaped pile of dirt called a bed. Face on the “mattress” and a long sigh out.

Leo gave in.

“Okay.. okay. You win, (Name).”

“Good, you can stay here for an hour and I’ll—.” You yelped when his arms wrapped around you and yanked you back onto the bed with him. “Leo!” Casey started to giggle.

The turtle froze.

“Agh! So all this time he was crying for no reason?!”

“I told you before that babies can be dramatic!”

“I didn’t think he’d be dramatic enough to cry,” Leo scoffed. “He was loud at that too.” His arms went to cover his eyes, facing the ceiling.

“The experience was much different than you realize, huh?” you murmured, laying your head next to his. Casey still in your arms, biting on them.

“..I thought I could do it.”

“Hm? But you were already doing it. You kept track of feeding him, releasing his gas, playing with him.. You considered changing his diaper too.. They’re all exactly what you needed to do for him.”

“But you took care of it in the end, as always.”

“..Took care of what?”

“He was crying just now, (Name). Don’t try to pretend like it didn’t happen.. I know I’m not the best father-figure to him.”

“Seriously?” you chuckled. “That was you too. He didn’t stop having that upset look on his face until you pulled me down. He.. probably enjoys surprises.”

“..Huh.. now you mentioned it..”

You sat up, turning your face to Leo. Your hand trailed along his jawline.

“Where’s the overconfident guy I know and love?” you hummed. “It’s not like you to put yourself down like that. You trying your best makes you the best father to Casey.”

Leo’s eyes gazed up at you.

“You’ve helped me a lot by covering a turn for him.”

“(Name), please. Whenever it’s my turn, things always get messy.”

“You’ve got to be kidding me, Leon.”

“..What?”

“You never noticed your pattern of taking Casey out of my hands before you get some rest? We do these switches after your patrol too.”

His mind clicked.

“..Ohh.”

You scoffed. “Yeah. You always look dead when I come back from my trip outside.” 

.

.

.

You stared at his lying form. Your fingers creeped underneath his head to signal him, and Leo adjusted. His head resting on your thighs.

“Leo,” you whispered. “Do you love me?”

Breath hitched. “When have I not?” he responded in a groggy voice. “..Why do you ask?”

“Do you love Casey?”

Said-boy babbled upon hearing some familiar syllables. He gave a soft kick on Leo’s arm, while playing with your fingers.

“...Even though he’s kind of exhausting, I’d give the world to the little guy.” He smiled, remembering the small moments when Casey would crawl over to his large feet and hand him a dead bird. “..Why?”

“Because you can’t help the both of us if you can’t help yourself.”

Hand trailing Leo’s jawline again. You spoke softly, “I don’t want you to kill yourself. Losing sleep is only going to do that, and I can’t risk losing you.

So promise me.. you’ll take care of yourself.”

“...I promise.” Leo slowly shut his eyes.

“...(Name)?”

“Hm?”

“Can you.. Remember that lullaby?”

“The one to the kids at the orphanage?”

“Yeah.. can I hear you.. sing it again?”

.

.

.

That night.. was one of the few when everyone managed to sleep without being woken up by a baby’s cries.

Before You Go | Future Leo X GN!Reader (Part I)

A/N: Time to make a series! Inspiration is taken from the movie and several fanart. Constructive criticism is appreciated as usual.

Summary: Heartbroken about a death of a dear friend, you and Leonardo debated on whether to co-parent Cassandra’s baby son, Casey.

Reader: Gender-neutral pronouns are used. Second POV.

Pairing: Rise! Future! Leonardo X Reader 

Warnings: Blood. Death. Child becoming an orphan.

Word Count: ~1280

Parts: One / Two / Three / Four / Five / ...

~

“We’re.. keeping him?”

A wary expression on your face as you met eye-contact with Leonardo. In his arms held a baby boy, wrapped in a soft yet dirty blanket. 

“We are,” he confirmed. 

“But what about the other camps—.”

“I promised Cass we would take care of him.”

You went silent, wincing at the thought— the memory of your friend dying in that rubble. Leonardo shared the same feeling, replaying Cassandra’s final words in his head.

“You didn’t even ask me for my word!” you snapped. “We’re talking about taking care of a baby in an alien invasion! I want neither of us nor the team to get too attached. He’s going to get in the way and if something happens—.”

“We won’t let anything happen to him.”

Your hands curled. “...How can you be so sure?”

“(Name).” Leonardo stepped closer to you. “Think about it this way: he could be a hope for us. He could be the one to stop the Kraang and this mess.”

“No.” You wanted to yell and force him to look from your view. Except, you can’t risk scaring anyone else in the base. There were other humans, mutants, and yōkai taking refuge to hide from the Kraang.

This was one of the only safe havens in New York City, or the entire world at that rate. You wanted this to be a place of consolation, not panic.

Arms crossed, you turned away. “I was afraid you’d think that.”

“...What do you mean?”

“He’s young, Leo!” You faced him again. “Don’t tell me you’re thinking about forcing the idea of ‘being the chosen hero’ on him!

What if he doesn’t rise to that challenge? What if he didn’t succeed? What would you think of him then?”

Leo’s mouth perked up.

And you realized yourself.

“Sounds like you’re the one with a personal attachment, (Name). I almost thought you don’t care about this little guy,” he teased. “I wasn’t being serious about the whole ‘hero’ thing. Splints threw me on the leader spot myself, remember?”

Your shoulders loosened. 

“I remember.” You sighed. “I never said I don’t care. Just worried we won’t be able to give him the childhood he deserves— the life he deserves. I wish that for every child, especially knowing this is the wrong place for them to grow up in.”

You grimmed. “We’ll be busy trying to take out Kraang, Leo.. How are we going to take care him, let alone give him enough love?”

Leo gave no response. But you watched his feet inching closer. Then, he held out the blanket-wrapped baby to you.

“..We’ll find a way,” he assured, “We’ll work it out together.”

You took the baby in your arms. He was snoring away all the problems, a bittersweet moment that warmed your heart.

“The others are going to co-parent too, right?” you asked. That one question making Leo freeze. You spoke again, this time raising an eyebrow. “..Right?”

He cleared his throat. “Well.. the thing is.. they.. probably don’t even know how to take care of a baby.”

“What.”

“But we’ll be fine on our ownn! Trust me, (Name), nothing’s going to go wrong under our watch.”

“And then you’re going to force all the parental responsibility on me.” You scoffed. “Are you serious? You had me thinking that Raph, Mikey, Donnie, and April will help too!”

“Cass trusted us to do this.”

“Exactly, us.”

“The both of us.”

“Why did she exclude the others out?”

Truth be told, you couldn’t understand what made his brothers and April any less qualified to take care of a baby. You knew Leo would be out a lot. You too had responsibilities with keeping resources in check and defending the base. Extra loving hands shouldn’t hurt.

Except, when you found Leo averting his gaze and coughing, a light blush on his face, it clicked for you. He wasn’t being completely serious. He just liked the thought of he and you— did Cassandra tell him?

A chuckle left your lips. 

“Look, as much as I’m willing to try for her,” you paused, “I don’t know if I can make a good caretaker, let alone a parent for Casey.” 

“And Cass knew you’d doubt yourself,” Leo held your hands, “but she still trusted you. She trusted that you can do it.”

You took a deep breath, tearing up a bit. 

“There.. are a lot of responsibilities....”

His arms brought you into a hug from behind. “I know.” 

He leaned his head on your shoulder, watching little Casey sleep. “Like I said though, (Name), we will make it work.” Leo reassured. “I’m here right next to you.”

Him being made leader changed him for sure. It was comforting to see him grow less cocky and more consoling, empathetic.

You kind of missed his overconfident, happy, sarcastic side though. 

.

.

.

“What are you doing?” A shaky breath. “We’re running the same way. Why are you handing him to me, Cass?” Leonardo felt his heart beating faster.

“Take care of him for me. He needs you all, especially (Name).”

“H-Hold on..” Leonardo taken aback.

He watched a couple of tears pooling up in Cassandra’s eyes. Her hand grasping his arm as they both ran for base.

“Y-You know (Name)’s been eyeing me for a while now.” Emotions caught up in her throat as she spoke. “They’ve always wanted a kid— I didn’t even have to ask them. So.. I-I thought that if I’m ever gone, Casey can be the one for them. (Name) can be the one who will love him just as much as I do.”

“What are you talking about—?!” Leonardo’s breath hitched when the woman let go and ran behind him. 

“Please tell ‘em that for me.. before I go..”

“CASSANDRA!”

“They’re just gonna keep following us if something isn’t done. I have to go distract them!”

You stopped in your tracks the moment you found your best friend turning the other direction. The baby gone from her arms and in Leonardo’s instead.

“Casey? Casey!” you shouted. “Where the hell are you going!?”

She was running towards one of the giant machines. A large rock into the eye with her hockey stick and a loud BOOM blasted from an ignition.

You immediately sprinted after her. “Casey! CASEY, STOP!”

“(NAME)!” Leonardo followed. 

Cassandra caught the attention of other nearby mechs, this time using her hyperbeam gun to strike. 

You were starting to lose your distance.

“Please! I don’t want to lose you—!” Leonardo yanked you back with his other arm. This was when you felt your eyes burning. This couldn’t be happening, not when you weren’t prepared to lose someone.

Leonardo kept a tight grip on your arm. “(Name)! We have to go back!”

“Casey’s out there! Let go of me—!”

“Yet you’re out here— I’m not gonna lose you too while we’re at it. Listen to me: we have to go back, or you’re putting everyone else at risk. We have to go NOW.”

You took one final glance at Cassandra, so far away. 

Suddenly, a bright beam of light shot down on her ground. You watched the dark silhouette in your sight evaporated.

And you screamed.

Leonardo pulled you into his chest, hand over your mouth. He carried you over his shoulder as you sobbed into your own palms. He fled, fled as fast as he could with stinging eyes, not because of the dust this time.

No one back at the base could’ve prepared to see you and Leonardo return with Cassandra’s baby alone. 

That ache hurt more when you found a photograph of her and everyone tucked in little Casey’s blanket. 

Don’t | Donnie X GN!Reader

A/N: This was so lovely to write. In my opinion, Donnie would be the most challenging of the four brothers. I think there are specifics to his behavior and personality, so trying to accurately replicate it does take some time. Apologies for any out-of-characterness from Donnie. Remember that constructive criticism is always appreciated, especially for characters, and enjoy! 

Requested: @sunnyselks 

Summary: You were wounded from protecting Donnie. When you were waving off his demands to treat you, he had to take it into his own hands to tend to you.

Genre: Hurt-Comfort

Reader: Second POV. Gender-neutral pronouns if any.

Pairing: Rise!Donnie X Reader

Warnings: Mentions of blood, needles, cuts. Argument over each other’s safety.

Word Count: ~1060

~

“Don, I’m fine.”

“Oh, sure, tell me that while your clothes are soaked in blood!” Donnie yelled. “Take off your shirt, (Name), or I’m not letting you leave the grounds of this room.”

“Donnie,” you stressed, clutching the wound on your arm. 

“(Name), don’t.”

You turned away from him, about to leave his room despite his warning. “It’s a minor injury, I’m perfectly fi—.”

Suddenly, small chips leeched onto your arm, catching you off-guard. They unfolded into wrist binds, where you realized this was his way of forcing you to stay put.

“Don!” you grunted, as the binds pulled you toward facing a wall. “Are you serious!?”

“As Galileo is about his heliocentric model.” Donnie took a binder clip from one of his desk drawers. “You leave me no choice, (Name).” As soon as the turtle lifted your shirt up from behind, chills ran over your skin from the cold air hitting the other cut on your back. He wrapped the hem over your collar, then proceeded to clip it.

“I could’ve done this myself or gone to a hospital,” you muttered.

Donnie scoffed. “And let them force you to pay expensive bills as your last resort when you have me? I thought you knew better than that.” He cleaned the blood around your wound with a wet paper towel before applying an alcohol wipe to disinfect.

“You know full well you can’t stitch your own back either. You wouldn’t want to risk inquiring your parental guardians for help in the end and being forced to give a whole explanation.”

“...”

From the corner of your eyes, you could see Donnie picking up a needle. The thought of it puncturing you made you shudder. There were vaccinations and blood tests, but they never changed your tension with needles.

You wanted to get this over with— the suspense was only making you more vulnerable.

“Are you going to inject the needle, Donnie—?” Your nails immediately dug into your palm as pain struck. "Argh..!" You winced badly.

“Don’t move,” he paused, “if that wasn’t obvious enough.”

“Easier said than done when I'm not used to having my skin pricked—!” You seethed, “Urgh.. couldn’t you have numbed it?”

“What, with lidocaine?” Donnie replied monotonously. “No, because you wouldn’t learn and would try to save me again—,” he pricked the needle the fourth time, “even though you are a human who could’ve gotten killed— God—why in the name of logic did you do that, (Name)!?”

“I did it to protect you!” you argued.

“Don’t you dare ignore the fact that you could’ve gotten killed!”

“I am capable of my own safety.”

“Scoffs. Think common sense, (Name). You’re a human,” he reminded, the anger in his voice showing. “I’m a mutant turtle; I have the biological features to defend myself!”

“You’re a soft-shelled turtle.”

Donnie stopped moving the needle. "Really, assuming that my soft-shell automatically makes me vulnerable? Are you trying to tell me I’m unable to protect myself because of that, (Name)?”

He frowned. “I have my technology— my intelligence to accommodate, so don’t put yourself in danger whenever the hell possible and let me handle myself. End of discussion.”

You wanted to slam your fists. As he was about to add another stitch, your body shook.

“They destroyed your battle shell!” Anguish scratching your voice. “Just because you're a mutant or because you have your military-grade tech, doesn't mean you won't get murdered, crushed!

God, don’t take it the wrong way. I’m not trying to assume or belittle neither you nor your tech. All I'm concerned about is keeping you alive!”

“...”

“You weakened your voice. “If me getting injured means you’d be okay, then that’s enough for me.”

Donnie’s breath hitched.

..You knew your turtle wasn’t great at apologizing, but his silence told you everything. He didn’t make a snarky or sarcastic remark.. instead, he listened.

“..I’m sorry.”

“I know. But don’t put yourself down.. I never once thought you're supposed to be perfectly strong or invulnerable. That applies to everyone all the same. Flaws happen, whether we're fine with it or not.”

You turned your head to look at Donnie. Something was still bothering him.

“But I’ll try not to scare you again if that makes you feel better.” The tension left his face, and he proceeded to finish the last few stitches.

It was all calm and quiet until he dragged his cold finger lightly over the stitched-up wound. You shuddered.

“You keep flinching so much.”

“You’re one to talk, you’re sensitive to touch as much as I am, if not so much more.”

“No, no, not that. I find it interesting, because.. I don’t see you reacting so violently when April stitched up the other cut on your back. You know, from falling off the table.” As Donnie applied a cotton pad and tape to cover your wound, he looked up to meet your eyes.  

But you quickly faced away to the other direction.

Donnie leaned the same way, one of his brows raised.

And you avoided eye-contact yet again.

.

.

.

Ah.

“You’re flustered.”

“What?” The red rushing to your ears.

“Flustered,” he repeated. “Its definition being ‘agitated, confused, ruffled—.’”

“No, I meant: how am I flustered?”

Donnie dragged his finger along your skin again. You felt your face heat up.

“You’re flustered from having your back exposed to me.”

“I’m not.” You sensed his ego returning.

“Tell that to my lie-detector and we’ll see how that goes.”

“You have a polygraph?”

“Of course not,” Donnie actually scoffed. “We all know polygraphs are never accurate enough to be trusted.” He unclipped your shirt and released the binds on your wrists.

You groaned, rubbing your aching hands. “You had me binded to a wall, and lifted my shirt to stitch my cut— so of course— I would feel exposed.. and flustered.” You sat in your turtle's desk chair.

“Yes, exactly, I did that to treat you." He crossed his arms. "And I find that hypocritical, considering you exposed yourself and your whereabouts on the Internet."

You gave him a look, before holding your knees to your chest. There was a change in expression as you whispered, "..Thanks."

Donnie stood awkwardly, rubbing his arm once he heard you and finding sincerity on your face. The soft-shelled turtle stepped closer to you and slowly wrapped his arms around your shoulders.

"Hey, I thought you don't like this intimate stuff," you joked.

Now Donnie himself became flustered. “Don’t, (Name).”

Rise of TMNT Mini-Episodes

I may be desperate, but who cares, because Nickelodeon just released two mini-episodes for Rise!

Nickelodeon paying more attention to our 2018 turtles?? Ohh man, I sure hope so.

Like You | Donnie X GN!Reader (Part II)

A/N: I had to do something with Donnie. In order for me to try and replicate his character, I had to repeat his sarcastic voice in my head over and over. It was an absolute pain, because to focus on this entire imagine (both parts), I had to try and shove all the trauma I got from the movie away for a couple of hours.

Summary: You were trying to ignore your feelings by avoiding the turtle himself. What you did not expect was that he’d be at your homecoming dance, confronting you.

Pairing: Rise!Donatello X Reader

Reader: Gender-neutral. Second POV. 

Genre: Hurt & Comfort

Warning: Good luck on being confronted.

Word Count: ~1260

Part: One / Two

~

You stood on the roof, arms resting on the concrete. It was frigid at night, especially with the wind blowing along your skin.

You weren’t into dances. You weren’t supposed to be here, but not only did your friends beg you to come to homecoming, Leonardo had asked you to meet up on the roof tonight. 

Sure, you had to pay him back for asking him to sneak calculus material out of his soft-shelled brother. Though, you didn’t expect that his request would be to prank you like this.

You sighed. “It’s Leon. I should’ve seen this coming—.”

“Oh Fibonacci.” You heard someone mumble, followed by a creaking of the door. You turned around, facing the mysterious person— or rather— turtle. 

Your eyes widened. “Donnie..”

Oh God. This was Leon’s plan. You wanted to collaspe into embarrassment. You were well aware that you had been avoiding his brother. Maybe this was Leon being pissed after doing so. 

You never wanted to push him away, but the logic was there.

You eyed his tuxedo, features of violet to match him. That and the bandana together. Donnie looked.. incredibly handsome, so much so you felt your face heat up.

No. You shook it off. 

“(Name)..” Your eyes met his again. There was a trace of pain in them, and.. your heart ached. You gazed away as Donnie walked closer to your side, facing the city. “Strange that I haven’t seen you in a while.”

Your hands gripped your clothing.

“...Remember the name?”

You followed his sight to a dot in the sky, shining bright. You knew it well. “..Sirius A.”

“Define a logarithm.”

“The power of a number being raised.”

“Base two logarithm of 32.”

“Five.”

“...Suppose that explains why you haven’t answered my texts.. You didn’t even need my help.” Donnie faced down, eyebrows furrowing. “(Name).. What have I done wrong?”

“No!” You were quick to deny that. “You did nothing wrong.” How could he think of himself like that when you were the one avoiding him without an explanation?

“Then.. why were you avoiding me?”

“I.. I didn’t mean to—.”

“I have common sense, (Name),” he scoffed. “If the lack of it is what you’re trying to take advantage of.” 

You had nothing to say.

“You haven’t contacted me in so long. I thought you might have some family issues or even an existential crisis, but then, you and Leo....” Donnie shook his head. “I know I have something to do it. Why were you avoiding me?”

“I already told you—!”

“For the love of Galileo, (Name), you’ve avoided me enough, so quit dodging my questions!” he snapped. “Tell me, so I don’t have to keep beating myself up over every possible reason that could separate you from me!” 

Donnie heaved, before a couple of tears form in his eyes. He tried to blink them away, but the pain was overwhelming. “I like what we had before, hanging out together in libraries, tutoring you, experimenting with tech.” Though he was hesitant, he let the words slip from his mouth. “As much as it’s not my thing to say affectionate words.. I’ve... missed you.”

You froze as he took and held your hand.

“And I mean it, a-all right? There’s no one else who has a passion for mathematics like you. There’s no one else who would try to memorize a hundred different stars with me like you would. There’s no one else who appreciate my sciences, my passions, my intelligence, like you—.”

“Stop.”

Donnie stopped rambling. “..What?”

Your face was turning hot, burying it into your hands. “Why do you have to make things so hard for me...”

He was starting to panic. “I.. I’m sor—.”

“No! It’s not like that!” You used one of your hands to wave it off. “You.. So this is what it’s about?”

“What’s what about?” Donnie tugged on his collar.

“Are you trying to confess to me?” you laughed. “I never took you for the romantic type.”

You opened your eyes through your hand to find the turtle with wide eyes and a blush darkening his face under the night. “Well—. I—. You—.” He was trying to fight back his short-circuiting. “That’s absurd! Donatello Von Ryan never involves himself with romanc—.”

“I like you too, Don.”

Suddenly, he’s the one hiding his face. You looked away with flushed ears. All this time, your fear—. Oh. The vibrant colors from your moment faded when you remembered your fear, the reason why you were avoiding the turtle.

You.. did owe him an explanation.

“...I was avoiding you,” Donnie uncovered his face, “because I started to like you romantically.” 

You crossed your arms as another gust of wind blew. 

“I was afraid you’d find that weird: a human— a much different.. biological being— falling in love with a mutant. And then, we were becoming really close, so I separated myself to prevent either of our— no, my feelings from getting hurt.”

His brows furrowed

“I am so sorry, Donnie.” 

“...”

WOOOOOOOO!

Cheers from behind the door grew louder as music blasted, startling the two of you. Donnie looked back and huffed, “Way to ruin the moment... I was wondering why no one was actually dancing at a ‘homecoming dance.’” 

You snickered.

The turtle faced you, to see you more light-hearted in his presence had a smile growing on him. “(Name).” Donnie held his hand out. “May I have the honor of holding a dance with you?”

Your face fell. You found yourself backing away. “R-Right now?”

“Oh, of course, I’m asking you for a dance that’ll happen in a century,” Donnie remarked, his face holding a smug look until he realized. “Unless.. you don’t know how to—.”

You quickly interjected, “I’ve told you once that I had never attended dances..”

Donnie proceeded to take your hand anyway. “I’ll show you.”

There was still hesitation in your eyes. He lifted your hand in his left up, and placed your other one on his shoulder. Donnie pulled you closer, making you heat up yet again. 

He definitely has confidence in dancing, that’s for sure. 

“Don’t move too quickly.”

“Don’t fret,” Donnie lowered his voice, “I know how to take it slow.”

Ignoring the shiver on your skin, you deadpanned. “You were so flustered just a moment ago, and here you are.”

“Oh, but (Name)! That’s the fascinating power of dancing: growing comfortable in your own shoes. Try not to watch my steps closely, and simply move along.”

He gave you a spin, he led you a step to the right, behind you. Then, as “Dandelions” played in the background, he twirled you out before bringing you back in. 

Palm to palm, you both moved clockwise and counter, like as if you were dancing in a ballroom. No longer minding the footwork, you were enjoying yourself.

“Were you jealous of my other tutor?” you spoke.

“What an assumption.” Donnie scoffed, “Surely, he can’t be as great as moi, Donatello Von Ryan.”

“Nope,” you answered with no consideration. “In fact, he’s so much worse of a tutor than you that I had to ask Leon to sneak calculus material from you to me.”

He went stiff. “You asked him to get it from me?”

“Don’t tell me you were also jealous of—.”

“Ahahem,” Donnie coughed. “I merely thought he taking my credit.”

You laughed. “Oh come on, we both know well enough that Leo is never interested in calculus, or any subject besides physical education.”

You leaned in closer, hand caressing his face. 

“You know, calculus is still biting me by my ankles..”

“Mhm.”

“I’m wondering.. Donatello.. if you would be interested in being my tutor again?”

“..Always.” He pulled you into a kiss.

Like You | Donnie X GN!Reader (Part I)

A/N: Aha, confession imagine with Donnie? This is a part one, because I wanted to make a dramatic scene with you and Donnie during homecoming. Actually, this is the first time I’m applying two parts. Anyway, remember that constructive criticism is appreciated, and enjoy!

Summary: You were avoiding Donnie, so he pleaded April to talk to you, hoping he’d understand what happened. But low and behold, he found his own brother there.

Pairing: Rise!Donnie X Reader

Reader: Gender-neutral pronouns used. Mostly mentions. Few actual appearances.

Genre: Dramatic Fluff & Humor

Warning: Not proofread? I was in a hurry to get the argument part in.

Word Count: ~1430

Part: One / Two

~

“They’ve been avoiding me April!” Donatello complained, falling back on his chair while covering his face in dread. “I don’t understand. What went wrong— what is it did I do wrong?”

“Are you for real? That’s what you called me in for?” April crossed her arms. “(Name)’s probably just a bit shy around you.” 

“Oh the naïveté, it is never that simple.” He shook his head. “I hadn’t detected any signs of discomfort a couple of weeks ago. Then, suddenly, they don’t even respond to my texts until 48 hours 20 minutes later!

In fact,” the soft-shelled turtle slouched over, grumbling, “they decided to see another guy for calculus tutoring.”

April raised her eyebrow. “How did you even know—?” “And he’s not close to having the brains like I do!” As per usual during his rambling, Donnie ignored the question. 

She rolled her eyes.

“Don, you gotta calm down.” April placed her hand on his shoulder. “Maybe they’ve got a crush on you too, and they don’t know how to tell you that. They do owe you an explanation though….”

“Hah, sure, give me false hope that they’ll return—.”

“Oh no. Don’t you dare switch up on that cocky attitude of yours from just a second ago.” April hushed him. “Look, Donnie, if it bothers you so much, I—.”

Donnie slammed his hands on his armrests and sat upright. 

“—can secretly get (Name) to reveal their thoughts to you, while wearing a camera I can attach to you?”

“Wait what, I never said—!”

“I thought you’d never say so!”

April’s eyes widened. “Hold up, I’m not about to put (Name) on the spot like that! What if they say something that they don’t want you to hear?”

“Ignorance is bliss, April, they won’t have to know.”

“Well, for one, Don, I’m not that close to them. We don’t have any classes together. Also, I don’t wanna creep them out by asking personal stuff out of nowhere!” she said. “Are you trying to embarrass me!?” 

He groaned. “All right, I give in! Just at least ask them how’re they’re doing before I start chewing on my tech-bo.”

—

“At least I got something to entertain myself in school for once,” April muttered to herself, hiding behind one of the beams. “But I don’t see (Name) around, not with so many kids in the hall.” The camera on her glasses blinked. “Seriously, how much money does this school want?”

“April, over there by the lockers—. Who the hell is that?” 

April glanced to where Donnie mentioned. You were talking with a guy in a basketball uniform and cap. Oh boy, she could hear the bitterness through her earpiece.

“So, this must be her new, pathetic calculus tutor. Really, a guy in gym shorts?”

“Don, I can hear your muttering. And quit trash-talking about (Name)’s choice in tutors.”

“Whatever,” he scoffed, burning holes into the guy’s head when you started to smile with him. “Let me activate the human identification program based on your school’s database, so I— I mean— we could get a name.” 

Donnie paused for a moment. “Although, he does seem oddly familiar—.”

April’s eyes widened. “Hold up, is that Leo?”

Donnie monotonously replied, “Ha, that’s funny, April. Leonardo would never go to a school willingly—.” The student turned around, revealing the red markings on his green face. Not just that, his own program flashed a message in red. 

[ ERROR! NOT HUMAN ] 

“...”

Donnie fell off his chair, choking. 

April immediately touched her earpiece. “Don! You good back there?!”

“Of course not! Why the hell is Leo in your school!?”

He grimaced even more at the sight of you laughing (more like chuckling) alongside his oh-so opposite brother. “April, quick, get closer to them without being noticed!” Donnie commanded. “I demand answers!”

“I thought our plan is to talk to them, not eavsdrop!” 

“Hey, plans change when it is necessary…. It-is-necessary, and I’m paying you twenty bucks for this!” 

April facepalmed in embarrassment. She snuck closer in, turning her head away so you and Leo wouldn’t recognize her. There, while the camera couldn’t catch your faces, its microphone did pick up on your conversation better. 

“I’m thankful I can count on you, Leon.” They could hear you sigh. “Calculus is taking up so much time, and my tutor isn’t being helpful..”

“Anything for mi amigue.” The red-earred slider grinned, leaning on the lockers. 

Donnie frowned. He didn’t want to question it, but.. were you feeling more comfortable with his brother than him..?

Then, Leo coughing brought Donnie back from his thoughts. “I do got something to ask you, though, (Name).” The soft-shelled turtle narrowed his eyes at how Leo rubbed his neck nervously. Worry was bubbling inside. 

“You said homecoming’s coming up soon, right?”

It piqued everyone’s interest. “In a week, I mean, there are posters everywhere for it. Why.. do you ask?”

“…You don’t have a date yet, do you?”

April gasped, covering her mouth.

That was it. Donnie’s heart dropped.

Suddenly, the microphone lost focus on you two. Instead, the host’s heavy breathing was heard. Donnie’s camera was shaking up a lot, making him panic. 

“Hey hey hey! They’re not done talking yet, April! I need to know what their answer is!”

“Dale’s coming my way!” she exclaimed, shuffling between other students. “And I’m not about to get asked out to homecoming by him again!” 

Not long after, Donnie’s camera disconnected. He sat there in shock… until he clutched his head. “No, no, no! This shouldn’t be happening!” 

Questions ran through his brain. It wasn’t adding up: how could Leonardo like you too? You and he had no common interests! Why did it have to be him out of everyone else!? 

“AHRGH!” Donnie groaned, slamming his head against his desk. Then, he stood up from his chair, storming out while punching numbers into his phone. “That’s it! I’m going to have a civil discussion with this traitor!”

—

A tennis racket flew across the room.

“Don, Donnie, I know what you’re going to say, but I promise— OOMPH!” Leo was knocked hard in the face by a thrown tennis ball.

“You!” Donnie snapped, picking up another one. “You traitor! You knew I like (Name), yet you proceeded to ask them to this homecoming dance anyway!” The red-eared slider dodged the second throw. 

“Is that why you randomly asked me, last week, to do your calculus problems for you! Taking my notes and answers only to give to them and take credit for my calculations!”

“Don.”

“I knew it was too good to be true: Leonardo, who’s never read any novels or understood mathematics beyond basic algebra, wanted to learn calculus!”

“Hey! I know more than you think, okay!” Blue took offense. “Donnie, listen to me—.”

“It just had to be another cliché, doesn’t it! The ridiculous ‘love interest picks the jock over the nerd’ scenario! Oh, I’ve had enough of your stupid stunts ruining everything, Leo!” Donnie tried to throw a punch, but he fell over onto the ground when his brother jumped to the side.

“Listen to me for once, Donnie— I never asked them to homecoming with me!”

“Oh, but Leonardo, why in the name of logic would you ever ask them whether or not they have a date to homecoming— while looking soo nervous back there— without any intention of asking them out?” Distaste dripping from his words.

“Bro.. I was asking for you!”

Donnie shook his head, tsking. “Excuses, excuses....” When his brother’s words loaded, he froze. “Excuse me, did you just say you asked them out for me? Why would you ever—!?”

“Hey, you had an opportunity waiting, and I took it for you.” Leon nudged him. “Don’t act like I didn’t just do you a favor.”

“I could’ve done that myself! There were posters everywhere; I would’ve known, therefore, I would’ve asked them!”

“Hah, mi hermano, you’re saying you’d actually have the confidence to tell them?”

Donnie scrunched his face and stared down at the floor. His smug brother wasn’t wrong on that; he used to be more sure, but with your distance, he had a hard time confronting you with his feelings. He didn’t want to make things any more awkward.

“Hey.” Leon grabbed Donnie’s shoulders. “Just be yourself, Don. Knowing them, they’ll love you no matter how weird and science-y you get.” 

Purple deadpanned. “Wow, you sure know how to reassure someone.” He touched Leon’s hand, gazing up to meet his eyes. A small smile formed on his face. “…Thanks.”

"Espera un minuto, repeat that again? I, uh, I didn’t catch that.” 

Donnie shoved him away.

Sign the Petition (Rise)

Bring ROTTMNT Back - Change.org

I highly agree with this.

God the reviews are so funny. One review is like "it's very dark and frightening for kids" and another one is like "it's so cheesy that kids the age of 10 will love it while adults, not so much". Another is like "the first scene is emotional and balanced and after that hyper non stop action that leaves you feeling exhausted" and then another one is like "there are only two epic fights, one at the beginning and one at the end and then the whole movie is just a lengthy dialogue that slows the pacing down and makes you wish for more action". And one is like "the story is insane and the character development is excellent" and another "the story and character development are simplistic and shallow"

Moral of the story: don't rely on reviews. Watch movies on your own and decide for yourself cuz this is a hot mess lol

Rise of TMNT Movie Review (No Spoilers)

Everyone, I am proud to rate this movie a 7.5 out of 8 slices. (For reference, that is an equivalent of 9.375 out of 10.)

This is from someone who assumed for a moment the movie might fail.

For one, I need everyone to understand how DIFFICULT it is to fit every development into an hour and a half movie. Especially considering it is an animation movie. 

I couldn’t blame the producers, knowing the backlash the series received for no good reason.

—

I cried during the emotional segments. The sight of trying but your efforts failed hit me hard. Hearing the turtles’ frustration too.. The VAs did amazing. Props to them for reaching my heart.

The animation, I want to hug the entire team. The backgrounds, the action, and the personal moments gave me CHILLS. 

It’s a disgrace to every person working on the movie when the Internet decided to put it under plain “comedy.” 

Sure, be judgmental, only because it’s animated. Why don’t you say the same for Marvel and DC’s dark animated films?

ARE WE GOING TO IGNORE EVERYTHING ELSE?

Here, the Kraang actually looked menacing. World-threatening to its literal definition. Murder? Yep, one of them is a deranged psychopath. I’m glad they didn’t go down the whole “just alien brains” route. (Sorry not sorry.)

Awes me when they managed to snuck in a few mature moments. 

—

I do have to admit: the comedy could’ve been improved. And I do wish that there was an extra hour in the movie for enough room to seam everything smoothly.

Although, the emotional moments made me forget those flaws.

—

Happy to know my fan fiction is 15% accurate to the actual movie. I mean, it’s expected Leo would point out the “Master” part.

Bruh, making a review without spoilers that can express my hype is a challenge.

Never Got the Chance | Whiplash X F!Reader

A/N: This is an alternate universe of the snails being humans. I decided not to use human identities here, because with so many unfamiliar names, I know it will be confusing. Constructive criticism is appreciated and enjoy!

Requested By: @musicin-thetreetops​ (Thank you for your request!)

Summary: Whiplash revealed to his friends who the girl was in his picture book.

Universe: Human A.U. where the F.A.S.T crew are college students with a hobby or passion in racing.

Reader: Mentioned only. Feminine pronouns are used.

Genre: Humor to Angst

Warnings: Parents not caring about their child’s interests.

Word Count: ~720

~

“You sure we can take these?”

Boxes stacked on top of another in Whiplash’s apartment. They surely took him for the organized type, not because of the obvious sight in front of them, but also how strict he was.

Whiplash kicked a heavy box. “Take what you can. Not like I use ‘em.”

Burn dug through some of the items and took out a circular container. “Ooh, this smells good—.”

“Except those!” 

Whiplash snatched the lotion and closed the box flaps. Chet raised an eyebrow. “So.. you’re not going to explain why you apparently have a box of lavender lotions just lying around?”

The leader glared. “Oh, so now you’re prying into other people’s business?”

“I mean, he’s always been like that, Whip,” Turbo defended. “You don’t remember the time he did a security check through our backpacks when we came to visit him?”

“It’s giving Disney for some reason,” White Shadow hummed. Chet sighed.

“Well,” Whiplash coughed, “I just want to clarify that these sweet lavender lotions ain’t mine. They’re.. gifts for someone else! Yeah.”

“Sheesh, if you say so.”

“Ooooh!” Everyone turned to Skidmark. He picked up a book from a box and blew the dust off. “Aha! A picture book!”

White Shadow gasped. “Hey, why would you want to throw that away?!”

“H-Hold on a moment—!”

Too late, Skidmark lifted the hardcover. A photo of young Whiplash and his parents was found first. “Hey hey! This book must contain photos from Whip’s history at his winery!”

Smoove Move leaned over Skidmark’s shoulder. “Whooo, that’s some sweet place you got there, Whip. Surprised you even left it.”

“Is this a means to say that you would leave racing to be pampered spoiled?”

Smoove Move’s face fell. “...Nevermind.”

“Ohoho,” Burn cooed, pointing to one of Whiplash’s youth portraits. “Look at how adorable he is here.”

Agreement rustled among everyone as they scanned through the album. With their attention plastered on it, Whiplash couldn’t do anything, nor reach the book.

Until Turbo pointed out one photo in particular.

“Hey, who’s this?”

“Turbo, there’s only two other people in my family, and that’s my parents. Who else could it be—.”

“The girl in a prom dress,” Burn described. “She got (type) (color) hair and (color) eyes.”

“Y’know, she looks around your age, too—.” Skidmark was interrupted when the picture book disappeared from his hands. Everyone’s head turned to their leader, instantly snapping the book close.

“You good, Whip?” Smoove Move asked.

Whiplash did not respond. His back was turned to them. Instead, he opened the album back to the previous page they’d seen. 

“We knew about your past at the winery,” Turbo stepped closer, “but you never told us about a girl being in the picture— pun unintended.”

The leader sighed. “...She was an old friend.”

“More than ‘friend’ if you ask me,” Smoove Move remarked. “You guys even went to your high school prom together.”

“All right, fine! She was my girlfriend.” The man felt a rush of blood through his ears.

“Was? So she broke up with you?”

“...More like I broke up with her.”

White Shadow winced. “She wasn’t toxic, was she?”

“Hell no! Why are you guys so quick to judge?!” Whiplash pinched his nose bridge. He turned to face the crew. “(Name)’s one of the most understanding people you’ve ever met. She knew how much I despise being the next mascot of the winery.

But my parents? God, they would always get in the way. Saying things like how she wasn’t as rich as my family, or how she’d be a bad influence to me.

Hell, I had to cut things off before they tried threatening her family!” Whiplash slammed the book close, the sound resonating in his apartment. It was followed by silence.. until his anger melted into regret. “I never got to ask her where I’d be able to find her again.”

“Dang,” Burn slumped. “Those parents of yours....”

Smoove Move nodded. “For. Real.”

“We could have been able to meet her too.” White Shadow wiped a tear from his eyes.

“Whip.” Turbo frowned. “I’m so sorry. You shouldn’t give up hope though, there’s probably a chance we can find her using the photo and her name—.”

“Hey Whiplash?” Skidmark asked from three meters away, while scrolling through his laptop. “Any chance your (Name) is named (Name) (Surname)?”

~

Implication of Skidmark being part of the Secret Society.

First Encounter | Raph X GN!Reader

A/N: Hey hey, I’ve returned. I took some time to visit New York, and gosh, if only there were actual mutant turtles to come and save me from the most disgusting streets I’ve ever seen. But that rant is up for another time.

I decided to write something for Rise!Raph. Personal thought for a second: I adore the change in his personality, compared to other versions. I’m more into “red means passionate and impulsive” than “red means anger.” Constructive criticism is appreciated and enjoy!

Summary: Raph finally met an animal that didn’t hate him. The animal was actually your missing pet.

Reader: Gender-neutral pronouns if anything. Second-POV pronouns are used.

Word Count: ~1090

Genre: Fluff

Warnings: Some mentions of kidnapping or pet-napping. 

~

The earliest he met you would have to be when you were searching for your missing pet. It scurried out quickly the moment you opened your door.

Raph was on his night patrol, while his brothers were elsewhere.

As of late, noone tried to murder them, so things felt monotonous.

He sat down off the edge of a building, looking at passing cars and people.

And then, Raph heard a trash bag tumble.

“Finally! Sounds like something’s about to go down toni—.”

In an alleyway, your pet wandered with sadness in its lost eyes.

Oh boy, Raph’s heart ached.

He jumped down, startling your pet with a THUMP.

“Hey there, fella,” the snapping turtle cooed, leaning on his knees. “Don’t worry, Raph won’t hurt ya.”

Your pet stood in place for a while, staring at Raph. It made him nervous, because while he claimed animals love him, do they really? 

“Come on, come to Raph-y.” He gestured with his hand. Your pet stepped closer, interested in this giant turtle. And for the moment of his life, it reached for his hand and nuzzled.

Raph’s eyes widened, and his mouth curled into a huge smile.

This was proof that he has a chance with animals!

He proceeded to scratch its head gently. “I love you too, buddy. Yes, I do. Yes, I do~.” It looked like it returned his smile. Maybe, Raph thought to himself, maybe this is the chance for me to adopt!

“(Pet Name)! Where are you?!”

Raph froze. A human? Looking for something?

He glanced behind him for a second and back to the animal in front of him. No, rather, some-pet. Raph couldn’t believe it; the one time he befriended an animal, it turned out to be someone else’s pet. 

A part of him wanted to pet-nap it. 

“Whoa, whoa, Raph. You can’t just pet-nap it!” Mind-Raph exclaimed.

“I can’t help it. This is a milestone for me!”

“Look, as much as you like animals, you can’t just make someone else feel terrible about losing their pet. You’ll always have another chance, big guy.” Mind-Raph pat Raph’s back before vanishing. 

The snapping turtle groaned. “Never a good day—.” WHACK! Raph was knocked off his feet.

“Get away from my pet, you creep!” you yelled, picking it up. “I know how to use my bag, so don’t you dare try me.”

“W-Woah! Hold on, this is just a big misunderstanding—.”

“I’m seeing everything clearly. You were standing there for a good minute, thinking about whether you should pet-nap (Pet Name)!”

Did he seriously take so long to think!? Raph winced. “Maybe— no, I mean— I was just walking by and I thought he was lost—.”

“He? (Pet Name)’s a she.”

“Right.” Raph winced again. “My bad. 

But I was only thinking about whether I should knock on people’s doors, or put up a found dog poster, or—.”

“What even are you?”

“I’m sorry?”

“Don’t tell me you’re one of those people who dress up in a weird costume to lure and kidnap kids too, are you?” Your grip tightened on your shoulder bag, and Raph well noticed it. “I’ve had enough of—!”

“A mutant ninja turtle!”

You stopped midway in swinging your bag. “...What?”

“Just a mutant ninja turtle!” Raph panicked, waving his hands and all. “Not wearing a costume! Was up on a roof until I heard a trash bag fall over. Then, I saw your pet. I admit, your pet’s really, really adorable. I didn’t mean to make you suspicious. It’s just that I’ve never had any animal be so loving around me—!”

You laughed.

Raph suddenly slowed down. “—and I was gonna... leave it.”

Your hand covered your mouth. “Really, you’re a ‘mutant ninja turtle?’” You continued to laugh. “I’m sorry, the way you blurted it out is so random.”

Raph had no words.

“Fine, I believe you for now.” You crossed your arms. “A panicked speaker is always worth some trust— (Pet Name)?”

Oh god. Did you let go? You quickly scanned around, hoping that she wouldn’t run off on you again. To your surprise, your pet was right by Raph’s foot, snuggling against him.

Even the snapping turtle himself didn’t notice until then. And Raph tensed up.

“H-Hold on... before you—.”

“Relax, I’m not going to swing my bag again.” Your voice softened. “Looks like she does like you a lot.”

You stepped a bit closer to Raph, eyes still on your pet. “She’s very sensitive about others. Only gets near whoever is a good person. So for her to—,” you paused, meeting eyes with the snapping turtle, “—I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have made those assumptions and... hit you.” 

Raph watched your expression. There wasn’t anger or bitterness. Instead, there was sincerity on your face. “You’re good. You trust her that much, huh?”

“I know when I should give someone a chance.” You smiled, throwing Raph off guard.

“Oh, and I should probably pay you back for earlier,” you said, picking up your pet again. “I.. do know a good pizza place we could order from. How about it?”

“...” He blinked.

“You.. may need to say something, so I know if you’re good with that.”

“...” He slowly nodded.

“Nice. We should probably meet up another day for it. I have finals coming up soon,” you explained. “Is there a way I can contact you?”

Raph reached for his phone and showed you his number.

You were kind of unsettled by how quiet he was, but his profile picture of Jupiter Jim reassured you. You even chuckled.

“Thanks.” You punched in the numbers and returned the device. “I’ll see you soon, ‘Raph.’ Or maybe ‘mutant ninja turtle.’” You walked off with another smile.

...

And just like that, he was left in the alleyway with a couple of questions. A blush grew on him, and he found himself crossing his arms to “cover” his beating heart. Gosh, was it your smile?

Were you also into Jupiter Jim?

How come he had never seen you before?

Hold on, did you still think he was a human in a costume?

~

Bonus Bits:

Raph develops a fear of your bag now.

April easily figured out that Raph has a crush on someone from his inability to hide his emotions.

Apparently, you and April are close. So when you tell her about an experience with a ‘mutant turtle in a red bandana,’ she connects the dots.

You come to realize that Raph is an actual mutant turtle when he refuses to enter the pizza restaurant with you.

Listen | F!Reader Insert

A/N: When the movie trailer dropped, I knew there are many opportunities for angsty fan fiction, so I kind of took one. Some of the dialogue is canon, everything else is from my imagination. Anyway, getting the characters’ "character” was a challenge. I’ll appreciate any constructive criticism to improve it. Enjoy!

Summary: Casey Jones is trying to warn them of their future.

Pairing(s): Rise! Leo X Reader (Established Relationship)

Reader: Feminine pronouns are used. No actual appearance, only mentions.

Genre: Humor / Slight Angst

Warning(s): Rushed writing. Written before release. Mentioned character death.

Word Count: ~840

~

“So what’s your business with our friend, pal?”

Casey slowly opened his eyes, groaning through the headache. The world seemed upside-down, but judging from the ropes tying his body to a chair, he got the memo. So he was knocked out and taken into the underground subway station. The human boy grimaced; the stench reeked here.

In front of him stood four mutant turtles, in addition to the presence of a sewer rat and another human. “Master.. Leonardo?” Casey murmured as he recognized the blue eye-mask and red markings.

“Hey, did you hear that?” Mikey gasped. “He knows your name!”

Leon smirked. “And he added a nice ring to it, too.”

“So Blue does mature after all.” Splinter scratched his fur.

“Great,” Donnie rolled his eyes. “Thank you for inflating his ego.”

“Guys, come on now—,” Raph began.

“Shh. Give a minute, hermanos, I’ve got a plan.” Leon announced with confidence.

All the voices blurred. Casey glanced around groggily, only to realize there was one person missing from the group. “(Name).... Urgh…. Where’s.. where’s (Name)?”

The group quieted down.

“Oho, skipping the introductions, are we?” Leon narrowed his eyes. He stepped closer to the human boy. “You got something against her too? …I’d let it go if I were you,” he threatened.

“This is what happens when random people jump straight to asking about his girlfriend before doing introductions,” Donnie remarked. Casey panicked under Leon’s glare, especially once he saw Leon pull out his katana. “Hey, hey!” Casey shook fervently. “Hold on a minute! It’s not—.”

“My hermanos, what do you think we should do with him?” The turtle pointed with the tip of his blade.

“Ooh, ooh!” Mikey raised his hand. “Give him a nasty haircut!”

Raph thrusted his fist forward. “We could use a nice punching bag.”

“Or here’s a better idea,” Donnie pulled down his goggles, doing a quick analysis of Casey, “how about I alter his brain, so we can remote-control him?”

“Pfft. Think we’ve scared him enough, boys.” April clapped her hands, making them drop the act and fall into laughter. Raph was snickering in back, seeing Casey all pale and shaken up. “Oh man, that was good.”

“Okay, okay, okay.” Leon wiped a tear. “In all seriousness, who are you, ‘cause we need to call you something other than— I don’t know, human guy?”

“...The name’s Casey Jones—.”

“Hold up, Jones as in Cassandra Jones? Never knew she has a brother,” April asked.

“Son,” he grumbled. God, how many times would they be interrupting him? “I’m her son.”

“Guys, I think he’s gone insane,” Donnie remarked.

“Careful, Don,” Mikey hushed. “Maybe he’s got trauma, and was put up with his sister being the mother role.”

Leon scratched his chin. “Seriously? Casey— I mean, Cassandra here— acting like anyone close to a mother?”

“For the record, I’m not insane!”

“Then, explain how you might be Cassandra’s son, when you’re just about her age.”

“Woah, Donnie, don’t tell me—.”

“That I took DNA samples from his teeth while he were knocked out? Why yes, yes I did.”

Casey shook in the air, which only had the rope swinging him from side to side. “Listen! You want to know how I’m her son? Simple answer is: I’m not from your time.”

“Huh?”

“...Is this going where I think it is?” Donnie covered his own mouth with his hand.

“I know how this sounds,” Casey cautioned. “But I need you to believe me, because I’m from… the future.”

…

Once again, everyone bursted out into laughter. In fact, even Splinter was amused.

“Y-you cannot be serious!” Donnie crouched over, dying. “That’s not possible!”

“Look, person named Casey,” Raph wiped another tear, “no offense, but if you’re trying to scare us, I can assure you you’ve got better things to do.”

“No! I’m trying to warn you guys about the future!”

“Right,” Leon rolled his eyes playfully. “And uh… how do we know whether we should take your word for it?”  

“Because if you won’t do something about this,” Casey’s face contorted in anger, “(NAME) IS GOING TO DIE!”

Noise slipped into immediate silence. Everyone stopped, eyes wide.

“Woah, woah,” Raph’s tone lowered, “You crossed the line there, pal.” The snapping turtle looked to his red-eared brother in concern. He found Leon clenching his hands and narrowing his eyes. “Yeah. There are other ways to get us to listen, y’know.”

“But you wouldn’t listen! And I’m not lying when I—!”

“Then, what are you talking about?!”

“Fine. Let’s start over.” Casey sighed, “My name is Casey Jones. In the future, an alien race by the name of Kraang decimated the planet. Master Leonardo gave me a mission: find the key and stop them.

When I arrived, I couldn’t recognize the place at all. Seeing Commander O’Neil, I thought she could the best person to start with.”

“What’s (Name) got to do here?” Donnie questioned.

“She—.” Casey hesitated, meeting Leon’s eyes. The red-eared slider crossed his arms. “Say it.”

“…She was killed trying to save Master Leonardo.”

2022.07.08

My friends,

The official trailer for “Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Movie” HAS BEEN RELEASED! I found out when I was looking through Instagram and found an edit of this trailer. You cannot believe how many times I jumped. 

One, after seeing the rushed yet incredible ending to the series, I thought that that was the tragic end to Rise. Seeing this has brought all the hype back and made this summer more memorable. YEAHH!

Two, may I point out our turtles being aged-up in one scene? Gosh, the fact that Leon looks like he has Raph’s arm— WHAT HAPPENED? I rewinded a few times, and I don’t think I see him or Donnie. This is surely going to bring up more potential for angsty fan fiction.

Three, Leon’s growing into his position as leader. To be honest, I was hoping for the trailer to have bits of Leon and Raph, where they’d talk about the sudden switch-over. I did feel bad about Raph being taken out of his leader role, when that was something he had been in for a long time. With the show’s hasty ending, maybe the movie can redeem this aspect?

Four, am I seeing things or is April attending university now? Congratulations, April!

Five, as one of Leon’s fan, I approve of screen time.

Best regards, MsBarryBeeson. (August 5th is the movie’s release on Netflix.)

Let Me Know | Turbo X F!Reader (Human AU)

A/N: Looks like I’m getting into writing fan fiction for Turbo F.A.S.T. Honestly, the show is so underrated, meaning no one question every hour why I’m in love with a snail. All I can say is that personality attracts me a lot. Enjoy!

Universe: Human AU where the F.A.S.T Crew are university students with a common interest for car racing.

Summary: You weren’t answering his messages or calls, so Turbo had to find you himself.

Genre: Fluff.

Reader: Feminine (She / Her).

Word Count: 690

~

“She’s not here?”

Your roommate shook their head. “And she never said anything about where she went?” Theo asked.

“I did ask her, but she hasn’t responded to my text.” The man could feel his heart nearly drop. Where had you gone? Your roommate saw the concern on his face and continued, “I would probably check with the library and cafés first. Maybe she has a project she needed to work on.”

Theo nodded. “Thanks.”

Walking away from your dorm, he checked through his phone. A minute passed, and he did it again. Theo tried to call you, but you made no answer, taking him to voicemail instead. “Please, just send a text,” he mumbled. Theo stared at his last message, which was sent two hours ago.

Thoughts ran in his head. The idea of you cheating on him was honestly one of his least worries. But the idea of you being kidnapped or even…. His heart started to pump faster, and Theo had to shake his head. No, he shouldn’t think that way. He needed to stay calm.

BRRING! BRRRING!

Theo jumped, immediately answering the phone call. “(Name), where—.”

“Now, where the hell did you go, Turbo!” No, it wasn’t you, but his captain. “Don’t you dare tell me you forgot about our meeting. Even your brother came and he ain’t an actual member. What, couldn’t let me know if you decided to be bold and skip out on practice—.”

“Look, Whip, I’m sorry, but I really got to find (Name). I haven’t seen her all day, and I—,” Turbo sighed. “See you.” He ended the call.

The racer sprinted to the library, the local cafés, trying not to look panicked. He even went through the career fair happening today, because he figured you’d want to find an early opportunity to get in touch with an employer. 

As much as he didn’t want to admit it, Theo’s eyes were starting to tear up. He decided to head back to your dorm, hoping that you returned. As Theo passed by, the doors to a lecture hall suddenly opened. He took a step back and watched in surprise as the administrators and students exited, all conversing with one another. 

This lecture hall was reserved for certain occasions, so Theo wondered what was happening in there—.

Was that you talking to your media productions professor?

Gosh, Theo almost shoved someone when he ran over. Your professor just left when you found your boyfriend tackling you into an embrace. “(Name), (Name),” he breathed. “…I’m so glad you’re all right.”

You exclaimed, “Turbo?” You returned the affection for a moment, until a realization had you push him away. “Don’t you have a meeting! What are you doing here, this far from the track?!”

No words fell from his lips. Theo came closer and buried his face into your neck. 

“Mmm, mmm,” he mumbled incoherently. 

“I can’t hear you, Theo.”

“I just miss you.”

You scratched his head. “All right, but you don’t need to skip out on practice. It’s not like you to not take the opportunity to race, and plus, Whiplash’s going to kick your ass for this.”

“Hey,” he pulled away, “at least I told him why I’m there.”

“But he called you first, didn’t he?”

“Sure, but at least I answered his call. I would’ve expected you to do the same, or even reply to my messages? It doesn’t have to be long, even a—.”

“You didn’t just see, Turbo? I was in the lecture hall. Phones are off in there. 

I had a presentation to convince the administrators to grant my media productions class permission to do a school-wide podcast or radio.” You rubbed your nape sheepishly. “The idea didn’t just come from our want to share news though. I, personally, also wanted to… help get more people to see the crew’s races.”

“You did that for us?”

“I mean, I did notice there was a lack of audience in the track. I thought hyping it up could work, especially since not many students actually know about you guys—.”

Theo hugged you again. “…Just give me a heads up sooner.”

Lanterns | Terraria Reader Insert

A/N: Yes, I made an actual fan fiction for Terraria. After five years of not playing, I have returned to realize that the NPCs actually have a personality! Being entertained by my interactions with them, I decided to write this.

A lot of this is referenced to the in-game quotes and events by the NPCs, in addition to my frustration of world exploring. Enjoy!

Word Count: 1980

Summary: You returned to town to find a party being thrown for you. This time, they had a different idea for a celebration.

Reader: Second-person. Gender-neutral pronouns are used if any.

Characters: Zach the Guide | Fantasia the Party Girl | Chryseis the Dryad | Dante the Arms Dealer | Caitlin the Nurse

Pairings: All are platonic.

~

“Huyah!” You yelled. Your sword slashed through the carnivorous Wyverns. Their twists and persistence gave you the fury to strike them down. Souls of Flight fell from their innards, topping off the final ingredient needed to make frozen wings. They make a much better alternative to your current fledgling wings.

You also wondered how Zach the guide managed to know the recipe for making wings. You would never know; maybe he was an adventurer himself once before. 

The magic mirror lit up at your reflection. Then your eyes opened to the familiar comfort of your home. The warmth from your fireplace made the frostbite on your fingers less painful. At your arrival, Zach stood up from the sofa in surprise, the book dropping from his hold. 

“Oh! It’s you, (Name)!” He held his chest. “I thought you were one of those Goblin sorcerers. ...Did you get the Souls?”

After plucking out some harpy feathers from your armor, you opened your backpack and took out a glass bottle containing the essence. “Yeah, I did. Thanks for the recipe, Zach. I can reach the sky islands easier now. Those Wyverns are hell to deal with though. If it weren’t for the shield from who was it, Romeo, I wouldn’t make it….”

“As expected,” he laughed. “And it’s no big deal. I’m always happy to lend a hand to our town hero. Speaking of which,” Zach took the bottle, placed it on the table, and grabbed your hand, “come, (Name). Fantasia’s excited to be throwing a party after you protected us from the Pirates. Who knew they’d be interested in a small town like ours?”

“Eh? Another one?” Your brows furrowed. “Zach, I’m thankful, but I’m just doing my deeds. You guys shouldn’t even be surprised to have invasions anyway. It’s not like it’s something new.”

“All hard work deserves something. Don’t feel bad for us; the majority of us do nothing but sell and buy.”

Huh.

“I guess you make a good point—.”

“Hey (Name)!” People leaped from behind the bushes. They were your fellow townspeople, and you realized that Zach took you to the park for the celebration, instead of the usual town hall. “The park? Is there some construction on the hall that I didn’t know about?” Your shoulders slumped. “Don’t tell me another attack happened while I was away.”

Fantasia waved her hands. “No no, of course not! Instead,” her lips formed a grin, “we just have this cool idea for an activity. And tonight has some perfect weather for it: mild wind, a clear sky—.”

“We decided to do this activity for each time you defend us from a new enemy.” Chryseis smiled, placing a moonglow flower crown on your head.

“And what would that be?”

“Thought you’d never ask!” Fantasia raised her left hand up high. “Light it up, everyone!” Behind the party girl, you watched in awe as something began glowing in each towns-person's hands. 

“Ahh.” You realized: those were lanterns, being released into the night sky. 

Their small flames mimicked the stars, making them all the more beautiful. 

Zach chuckled; he admired the lanterns twinkling in your eyes. 

Waking to your side, the merchant brushed his beard. “These lanterns are made of silk, produced by the fine webs of spiders. It’s not easy to retrieve, but the Oten’s explosives scared them all off.”

“Don’t think you can leave me out, old man,” Dante huffed. “If it weren’t for my bullets, those spiders wouldn’t know when to stop. Oten here keeps missing his aim.”

“Oi—!” 

“Dante!”

“Fine, fine. I’ll quit it.” The man lifted your hand to his lips and placed a kiss. “Only for you—.” 

You pulled away. “Sorry, I’m actually saving myself for someone with more compassion than that,” you playfully wafted your hand, leaving the arms dealer in embarrassment. Everyone laughed at the sight.

Then, a glass of blueberry juice reached your hand. “Ahh, I’m glad to have you here with us, (Name),” Caitlin spoke up. “Not only have you provided us a home, but you’re also a cool person! Better ask me to treat when you can.”

“Let me guess: in return for coins?” You sipped the juice.

The nurse was so quick to answer, “Yeah— hey!” She lightly shoved your arm. “I’ll lower the costs for you, o-of course!”

“Haha, appreciated it, Cait.”

As you strolled away, a sudden, blue cloud poofed out of nowhere. A man of a white beard and purple appeared. “Hello, beloved hero!” Merlyn exclaimed. 

“What’s with the formality?”

“Now now, have you really not heard of my saying: ‘great magic comes with great respect’?” Another cast of blue revealed a crystal ball in his hands. You tilted your head. “You sure? I don’t remember you saying such thing last after-party.”

The man hushed you, “Sh, sh! It’s essential I follow the advice of my magic crystal. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have spoke in such a way. I mean, its tellings don’t come often after all!”

“Merlyn, I really do think the crystal tells you the future, not actual advice on what you—.”

“Shh!”

With a gentle touch, Merlyn rubbed the object. Then, he held it out, closing his eyes and chanting a string of words, until he removed his hand. “Aha! Your future seems bright— other than a dead goldfish— but still! I give you this magic crystal, beloved, young hero, (Name), in hopes that you will use this in a time of doubt.”

“Wait what?” You held the crystal with great care. “Merlyn, I’m not sure—.”

“Whoops, too late! I must walk my hat! Perhaps, an enchanting cup of hot chocolate may entertain you instead.”

Just like that, the glass in your hand transformed into a hot mug. You realized you lost sight of the wizard. You glanced around in vain. “Huh, he actually dipped on me,” you muttered. You stared down at the crystal ball and sighed. “Fine.” 

“How are you feeling, (Name)?” You jumped, making Chryseis laugh. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you.”

“You’re good. In all truthfulness, at least you’re not Dante.” The dryad rolled her eyes at the name. “I must agree. To this day, that man still can’t tell I’m five hundred years old.” A look of shock caught your face. “I’m sorry, what?”

“What?”

“I actually didn’t know you’re five hundred years old….”

“Isn’t it obvious?”

“It isn’t! You look incredibly young!”

“I know you mean it as a compliment.” Chryseis rubbed her arm. “I just  don’t think it helps in the case of Dante,” she chuckled. “But enough of that, the corruption has been decreasing thanks to you.” 

“Well, some of the thanks should also be given to Hope. Even though it was pricey, the cleminator was helpful.” You crossed your arms. “Oh, the steampunker?” You blinked. “Yeah, is there something about her?” 

“Not necessarily.” Chryseis shook her head. “I heard she dislikes me, but for what reason, I’m not sure. Anyway, let me see….” The dryad connected her hands and closed her eyes. A gust of wind blew by as she hummed a short tune to herself. “Terraria has less than five percent of corruption! Each day, nature is more at ease.”

“Terraria?”

“Oh.” The dryad’s eyes widened. “Sorry, that was a slip of my tongue. I meant (World Name).”

“Well, I’m glad to hear my work paid off, and that my gold isn’t for nothing.” Your hand lightly touched the flower crown on your hair. “And thanks for the crown again, Chryseis.” She smiled. “Of course.”

“Ay, (Name)!” 

A different voice yelled out, one that made the dryad frown. “Oh no, I must leave now, (Name). Do take care!”

“W-wait, you can’t just leave—!”

Dante took your arm, turning you to face him. “Now where’d you think you’re going, sweetheart? The party’s just started.” You grimaced at the nickname. “Don’t you have Caitlin to flirt with?” 

“I didn’t know you’re so interested in who I’m with.” He smirked.

“More of ‘I wish you wouldn’t talk to me now,’ to be honest.” 

“Ouch, not even a bullet hurts that bad.” Dante ran a hand through his hair. “C’mon, I just need a moment.” 

You glanced around for a lone person to speak with, but alas, everyone was busy with their own celebratory agenda. “What would it be now: more firearm dealing, a dinner date?” You waved off. “Forget it, I’m happy with my current weapon and treasure hunting.”

“Hey hey!” The dealer stopped you. “It’s… I just want to give you something as a gift, all right?”

“…Huh?”

Dante scoffed, “Why do you sound so confused? I’m not that hard-hearted. Here.” The man shoved a long cardboard box to you. You slowly opened it, revealing the star cannon. “You….” 

He rubbed his nape. “Look, I was supposed to give you it three parties ago— y’know, the one after you killed that giant plant— but I never found you. You were always gone for some reason, but I guess you got other stuff to do, so….” He paused for a moment. “So… you like it?”

You stared at the gift, thinking and admiring the fact that Dante even poured effort to forge it. The silence you gave was unbearable for the man, however.

“Hey, don’t leave me hangin’, (Name). I even asked Oten to explode the meteorite for it, but apparently, his explosives don’t even work on it. You’d have to find stars for ammo though. I would’ve gotten some if it weren’t for the fact that the stars I’ve seen killed some—.”

“I love it.”

The sudden remark made Dante flustered. 

“Thanks, Dante. I have to admit: I didn’t expect this.”

He coughed. “Yeah yeah, I only did it because you earned it—.”

“(Name)!” 

Your eyes flickered to your friend walking over to you two. “Zach?” You smiled at his appearance.

Dante, on the other hand, “tch’d,” looking away with bitterness in his mouth. “Hey, glad to have found you. The wind’s drifting the lanterns to the west. I thought we could go over to the pond and read the messages on there.”

“You guys put messages on there?” You looked to Dante, who pursed his lips and nodded.

“Come on!” You put the star cannon back into the box, carefully handling it. “Okay okay. I gotta go, so thanks again, Dante.” You smiled.

You and Zach hurried over to the edge of the pond. The lights reflected onto the water. You watched the wind lead some of the lanterns within arm’s reach. After some time, your hand raised up high and caught onto one. 

“This one’s from Konah,” Zach observed.

“‘Strong energy flows through you, in which your presence keeps my soul at peace.’”

Zach pulled in another lantern. “Oh, this is from Reishi!”

You laughed at this one. “‘I’m glad you didn’t try to eat me.’” 

“Unfortunately, he’s got Alfed to worry about. That guy’s always trying to take a bit out of him,” Zach sighed. You thought aloud, “What’s up with truffles?”

“Not sure, I just heard it can mess your head up, which sounds more uncomfortable than tasty,” your friend replied.

The two of you looked up at more lanterns in silence, many of which were floating far away. Something ran through your mind when you caught sight of the actual stars in the sky. “…Hey Zach?”

The guide hummed, signaling you to continue. “Every day, I wonder why I’m here. To be honest, it feels exhausting to get rid of the enemies and corruption. In fact, I wonder if I have a different purpose than that. But… after spending time to meet and talk with you guys, I feel less lonely.” Zach turned away from the lanterns to face you. 

“I’m glad to have you guys here. I’m glad that my purpose is to help protect you guys if anything. And…,” you paused, “I wish it will stay that way forever.”

Means Well | Smoove Move X F!Reader (Human AU)

A/N: This request is made by @urmysuperstar. Thank you for making one! It was a great chance for me to focus on Smoove’s character, in addition to Skidmark’s. It was somewhat of a challenge on Smoove’s dialogue, so constructive criticism is much appreciated!

Again, this is based on the Turbo F.A.S.T series. I decided to make this a human a.u., or else I’d be automatically tagged as insane for a snail and reader pairing. (Also, I literally struggled to find a perfect image or GIF of Smoove. Man..) Enjoy!

Universe: Human, where the F.A.S.T Crew are university students with racing as a hobby. Smoove Move is referred to as Darion for his student name.

Summary: After feeling ignored during your dinner date, you’re starting to doubt your relationship with Smoove Move.

Pairing: Smoove Move (Darion) X Reader

Word Count: ~1470

Warning(s): Insecurity of relationship. 

Genre: Angst to fluff.

~

Some dinner, you thought to yourself. You were in class, and yet, you found it hard to focus on your professor’s content.

Instead, your mind kept running back to two evenings ago. You had a dinner date with your boyfriend Darion, but apparently, the majority of the time had the waitress flirting with him. Of course, you weren’t clueless as to why. This man went by the name, Smoove, as a famous racer in the F.A.S.T crew. He was also a talented DJ at the local club.

To top it all off, Smoove was handsome and a sweet-talker.

You weren’t worried by the difference in your interests. Rather, you were starting to worry about the fame that might take him away. He returned the flirting, which gave you a red flag.

“Ahem,” your professor coughed out, “Ms. (Surname)?” You jumped in your seat, making the students beside you chuckle. “Yes, Professor Keating.”

She crossed her arms. “You’re a good student this far in, (Surname), so I need you to quit frowning over your relationship issues and focus.” A stunned expression took your face; even your professor managed to figure you out. Still, after five months with her, you knew she meant well. You nodded in response.

“Now,” Professor Keating began, “remind this class why does a leap year have an extra day.”

“Each year actually has 365.25 days, but for a more simpler count, the calendar excludes the one-fourth. Add the one-fourths from all four years, and that makes one more day.”

Your professor looked to your peers. “That’s one of the most basic things to know, and barely any of you remember. Keep that in mind for the final exam, otherwise you just lost an easy point. Next,” she faced the board with her marker, “how do we know what elements the sun is composed of?”

“Ooh, ooh! Me, me!”

She flickered her head to another student, paused, then furrowed her brows. “I’m sorry, who are you?”

You blinked to your left, finding a familiar person sitting in your class. The man was scribbling in his notebook, while keeping his hand raised. “Oh, don’t mind me, Professor, I just find your content rather fascinating—.”

“I don’t care about why you’re here. Just tell me your name.”

“Yahir Skid.”

Skidmark? You gaped at his boldness to sit in a random classroom. You heard your professor sigh loudly. “All right, what is it?”

“By using the spectroscopy to study the behavior of electromagnetic radiation with matter. The spectroscopy splits the energy into different wavelengths to reveal—!”

After bidding Professor Keating goodbye, you walked down the stairs. Your class ended right when the sun was beginning to set, and you didn’t know whether you should be thankful that a pop quiz wasn’t involved, or thankful to get out of hearing the long answers from Yahir. As much as you were a curious student, you currently had an issue to deal with.

“Hey hey, (Name)!”

Yahir leaped off the stairs onto the ground. “How’re you feeling today? Any bird drones fly into your window today?”

“W-what?” This guy acted like you two had known each other for months. “No, none at all. And I’m feeling fine, thanks for asking.”

“Of course, of course,” he wafted his hand, “any good friend of Smoove is mine! Anyway, man, that class is interesting! Your professor needs to relax a little though. It’s not like I’m trying to offend anyone by suggesting that inner Earth is actually a whole ‘nother world.” He paused, then grabbed your shoulders, facing him.

“Unless,” he shook you, “she’s part of a secret agency in the government, trying to brainwash us. That way, we won’t leave the country, and they would be able to force us to pay taxes!”

You removed his hands. “No need to be intimidated that bad. Professor Keating means well, Yahir—.”

“Skid,” he corrected.

“—Skid, at least for students actually enrolled in her class, but still.”

“Hmm.” Yahir narrowed his eyes. “All righttt, I’ll take your word for it.”

“Why did you come to my class anyway?”

“Smoove— I mean—.”

You stopped in your tracks. Ah, it was starting to connect. “Smoove put you up to this, huh?”

Yahir gasped. “Ooooh, you’re good.”

“Does he need anything from me or something?”

“Actuallly, I already asked you the thing: how’re you feeling?”

You didn’t know what to say at first. “…That’s why he asked you to see me? He couldn’t just text me that instead?”

“Trueeee, but Smoove also wanted me to get you to reveal your personal thoughts of him, since he thinks you won’t tell him yourself. He feels guilty after your last date. I may have agreed to doing a favor because I like the idea of being the spy, the infiltrator instead, but—.”

You looked at the ground, questions drifting in your head as Yahir continued to ramble on. Maybe your boyfriend did care after all. Still, you thought back to Darion flirting with the waitress. His friend might have claimed that he felt bad, but he was, again, a sweet-talker. Who knew if Darion was telling Yahir the truth?

Don’t fall for it that easily, you told yourself.

“Is he busy right now?” you asked, cutting off the rant. “I… would’ve seen him this far from my class.”

“Well, Smoove did tell me that he has someone to see— oh! Look, there he is!” Yahir happily sprinted over to your boyfriend. The words spewing from his mouth instantly.

You, on the other hand, slumped your shoulders. “‘Someone to see?’”

You walked down another set of steps when Darion turned his gaze from his friend to you. “Would you look at the time, I better go get my bigfoot hunting gear.” Yahir waved, backing away rather quickly. “It was great talking with you, (Name). I’ll leave you guys to it. Bye!”

“Now, wait a minute, you still didn’t tell me—.” Darion was a tad late, the maniac gone in a flash. He sighed, “And he dipped just like that.”

Your boyfriend faced you, taking your hand. A grin taking his features. “Well, gree-tings to you, m’lady.”

Immediately, he visibly froze after letting those words slip. Smoove’s free hand went to cover his face in embarrassment. “Hold up, did I just— I can’t believe I just say that,” he groaned.

Huh, this new side of him actually made you chuckle. “To you, my lord.”

He looked away and muttered, “My brotha managed to do it again.”

“You were… seeing your brother?” A breath of relief escaped your lips.

“I had ta pick him up from the airport. That’s why I couldn’t get to ya earlia.,” he explained. “Said he wanted me to take him out for a spin for inspiration for his art. Coulda taken it from YouTube though.” Darion huffed. “You haven’t met him, but he and I… don’t groove the same way. Busta’s more of a geek, if y’get what I mean.”

“I don’t see what’s so wrong with that, Smoove.”

“No worries, I love my brotha. He’s just a little weird in the head.”

You chuckled. “I can say the same for your friend, Skidmark; he’s… kind of strange,” you said with honesty. “He’s also terrible at keeping the truth, because I heard about your ‘favor’ from him.” Your arms crossed, waiting for your man to explain himself. Smoove widened his eyes. “Aw, what? He told you everything?” You nodded.

“Dang. He knows how to do better than that, but I know my boy means well….” Your boyfriend rubbed his nape. “And— (Name), I’m sorry about what I did for our otha date. I promise I’ma make it up to you.”

Your lips fell into a frown, gazing away.

Smoove held your shoulders. “Hear me out, now, (Name). I know I was flirting with that waitress last time, but that was all so I can get us V-I-P access to their five-star menu and exclusive dance floor, baby.

Now, imagine it for a sec.: you and I moving along to those tunes. Just the two of us.” Your boyfriend held up a black card with letters standing out in a gold-like color, waving it in front of your eyes. “I never got intentions of cheating or putting you down.”

You met his eyes again, and Smoove took your hand again after putting away the card.

“I didn’t put in all that time and effort, y’know, getting my boy Turbo to give you that letter, Burn to help pick out a gift, and Whiplash to let me off from practice to see you. I didn’t do all that just so I could forget about ya.” He shook his head. “That ain’t my groove. So if something’s out’a’place, let me know, aight?”

Bringing your hand closer to his lips, he kissed your wrist. “I love you, (Name).”

Yeah, Smoove meant well.

Even If We’re Different | Turbo X F!Reader (Human AU)

A/N: This is based off of the Turbo F.A.S.T series. I decided to make this a human a.u., otherwise I’d be automatically tagged as insane for a snail and reader pairing. Now, if I did do that, the reader would have to be a snail too. 

The snails’ names are considered racer nicknames in this a.u. I cannot imagine having “Turbo” as an actual student name. Turbo is Theo. Whiplash is Whitney. Chet is Chet. Burn is Bernice. Skidmark is Yahir. Smoove Move is Darion. White Shadow is Matthew. 

(Picking these names other than the canon ones is hard as heck.)

You’ll only see Turbo (Theo), Burn (Bernice), and Smoove Move (Darion) here though.

–

Pairing(s): Turbo (Theo) X Reader

Universe: Human, where the F.A.S.T Crew are university students with racing as a hobby. Turbo is officially the youngest racer, winning a national competition at 18 years old. (I have no exact clue how car racing competitions work in real life, so take this fan fiction with a grain of salt.)

Summary: You get insecure of your friendship with Turbo when you start believing that he and Hayaku get along well. (You also have a crush on him, but you haven’t confessed yet.)

Word Count: ~1700

Warning(s): Insecurity of appearance and interests.

– 

You could only scoff. Your pencil scribbled harshly across your notebook. All while you overheard Hayaku giggle at whatever Theo said. 

You glanced up at the man to find his eyes and infatuated smile for her. You scowled. The sight irritated you, but you could not help yourself from your insecurity. 

Hayaku did look beautiful with her silky hair. Besides— you thought as you frowned to yourself— she was a professional drift racer and a celebrity for her infamous hot sauce back in Japan. She had something in common with Theo, while you were only a university student taking on art minor and computer science major. 

Speaking of which, you sometimes wondered how you even managed to become friends with Theo’s bunch of racecar drivers. You and Theo’s brother Chet were the only ones not obsessed with the sport. Regardless, you were grateful for having such friends at least. 

Though your heart felt bitter, you shook your head. You needed time to debug a program, not to grieve over Theo. You groaned, “I forgot the other brace at the end of the if-statement—.”

“You’re a very funny man, Turbo-san!” Hayaku laughed behind her hand. “I surely look forward to our official drift race.”

Theo smiled. “As do I.”

The grip on your pencil tightened. You could not handle this, so you turned away from the race track, putting in a pair of earphones to distract yourself. Your arm leaned on the empty row behind you. Then when you were finally about to settle down, somebody snatched your earphones out, holding them overhead.

“H-hey Smoove!” Darion, otherwise known as Smoove Move, was one of yours friends and a member of the F.A.S.T crew. 

“You’re looking deep down in the dumps, hun,” Darion hummed, dropping the earphones back into your hand. “This ain’t the (Name) I know— the one always down to go with Turbo.”

“Yeah, her man’s busy talking to that Japanese girl,” Bernice, nicknamed as Burn, remarked, blowing a bubble.

You sighed. “Don’t say it like that, he’s not my boyfriend.”

“Yet.”

Your hands covered your face. “Can’t believe you guys know about my crush on Turbo except him himself,” you mumbled. “What’s worse is that he’s falling in love with someone else in front of my eyes.”

“Ay, don’t be hard on yourself. The right kind of love moves slowly.” Darion sat beside you on the bleachers. “There’s more to it than you know. I mean, even Turbo’s feeling all kinds of emotions for you too.”

You closed your notebook and faced your two friends. “What?”

Bernice shoved you. “Don’t tell us you never noticed a single thing the past few months. Especially our 2nd year party that one night.”

“Whoo, I remember it like it was yes-ter-day!” Darion laughed. “That look on Turbo’s face had me rollin’!”

Bernice smirked. “Hell, he was so pissed off when he caught you hanging out with one of our rival team’s star, Fusion.”

“Fusion?”

“Nickname. His real name’s Aiden.”

The name clicked in your head. “Ah….” You recalled how cocky he sounded, belittling your friends to make himself look good. You had to admit: Aiden was an entertaining guy, but when he asked you to a dance, you turned him down.

“You weren’t there, but he challenged our boy to a race. Couldn’t win even when they tried so hard to copy him.”

“But he still got a hard spot for Fusion.” Bernice crossed her arms. “Turbo was crushing his can and ruining Chet’s suit with soda all over him. At least you gotta have seen that.”

“How ‘bout that time when Hardcase tried asking her out, Burn?”

“Ah man, Turbo’s face was priceless!”

“Got his finger tapping so quick on the table and everything—.”

“If you are trying to tell me Turbo’s been crushing on me, then explain why does he look like he’s going to marry Hayaku after a few minutes of meeting her?”

“Hey, hey, I’m only telling you this from a man’s view: first sights in love are with the looks. I bet you even if they do get together, Turbo ain’t gonna last two dates when he sees what’s really behind her.” Darion grimaced. “And I’m picking up a bad groove. See how her smile’s turned over ‘round—. Hey, where’d my boy Turbo go—?”

“What ‘bad groove,’ Smoove?”

The three of you were startled by a voice from behind. You turned to find Theo walking down the bleachers.

“Don’t you scare us again, Turbo,” Bernice remarked.

Theo chuckled. “Sorry guys, I had to change out of my suit. Why are you two here anyway?” he asked. “You don’t usually come to my practices.”

“Team meeting’s not on until a couple of minutes later,” Darion answered. “Got nothing much, so might as well spend our time here. Besides, (Name) here’s looking a little lonely, so why not be her company?”

Theo’s eyebrows furrowed. Your eyes peered toward Darion, whose hand signaled you to wait. 

“So anyway,” Darion spoke again, “what’s new for you, Turbo?”

The man shook his head, a smile returning to his face. “Man, there’s this girl from Japan, right? Her name’s Hayaku. She traveled to here from Japan to race against me! Well, more like her hot sauce manager challenged Tito. But I think she likes me.” Theo grinned.

“Watch it,” Bernice warned, “I heard this Hayaku girl’s a competitive one.”

“Aren’t we all?”

“No, no.” Darion shook. “She mean she’s a hothead. May be pretty, but pretty rude too.”

“Look, Turbo,” Bernice said, “every competitor you meet who looks nice always backstab you.”

Theo crossed his arms. “Not everyone’s like that. I’m sure Hayaku’s different.”

“My boy, you’re racing over who has better hot sauce.”

You opened your notebook again, not getting into the conversation.

“Well I’m going to give her the benefit of the doubt. She’s even offered to teach me how to drift!”

Bernice rolled her eyes. “Oh my god.”

Theo huffed. “Anyway, the sun’s about to set. We better get going before Whiplash starts lecturing us.” 

Darion and Bernice shared a glance and snickered. “Sure, brother, take. your. time.” 

Theo’s eyes widened. Flustered, he glared down at them as they stood up from the bleachers and walked off. Theo tapped his shoe, waiting until his two friends were gone, before he faced you. 

…

But of course, there was an awkward silence. You continued jotting down some notes, thinking Theo would leave you be.

“…You’ve been pretty quiet, (Name).”

You pursed your lips. “There’s not much to tell you, so I rather not bother you by talking.”

“What? You’re not bothering anyone. I actually like your voice— I mean— I don’t mind you talking at all,” Theo stumbled. “The only time that’d be a problem is when Skidmark is convinced the aliens are going to invade the stock market.” He leaned forward to see your face, but his small smile disappeared when he found no reaction out of you. “…I’m sorry. I didn’t know you were feeling lonely,” Theo spoke up. “If I’d known that before, I wouldn’t have forced you to come every practice, (Name).”

“I’m fine, Turbo,” you assured him. “I don’t mind watching you on my own. Plus, it makes for a great chance to study.” You paused for a moment. “It’s just that… there’s a larger crowd here today than any.”

“It happens when an international racer decides to visit.” Theo chuckled, trailing off into another silence. He rubbed his nape nervously. “…You’re also not coming with us?”

You huffed. “You forget that I’m not a racer like you, Turbo.”

“I—. Well, I don’t ever remember that stopping you from hanging out with us.”

“This is a crew meeting?”

“(Name), come on.” He pushed you. “I know for sure Whiplash doesn’t mind. You’re our friend.”

“A friend who isn’t into racing like you.” The words slipped your tongue this time.

“(Name),” Theo said sternly, “What’s gotten into you today? You never cared about this just a few days ago.”

You sighed. “I just don’t—. I’m sorry. I was just thinking about us.”

“What do you mean?”

“We’re friends and all,” you closed your notebook and hugged your legs, “but I’m not sure how it even began. I’m an art and computer science student. You’re into mechanical engineering and racing.”

Theo sat down beside you. “Are you worried we couldn’t stay as friends just because we’re not into the same interests?” A frown formed on his lips. “Okay— I admit: most friends fall under that category. But you and I— the crew do have something in common. Something outside of our hobbies. For one, we all have dreams to work for. We’re big competitors in our fields. And….” 

Theo had to stop himself from mentioning his meeting with you at the university library, where he spotted you sprinting past him to borrow a well-liked book before someone else claimed it. Theo had to stop himself from talking about the time he watched you hype your teammates up for a competition. 

“There are times when I really admire your determination, (Name).”

His eyes told nothing but his true feelings. Theo himself was determined to stay friends with you.

“Stay.” 

Your ears reddened, and you turned to hide your flustered smile while pushing Theo away. You missed the way Theo’s eyes softened when the sunset’s golden light reached your features. 

“Yeah,” he spoke softly, “Hayaku’s wrong about you.”

~

Bonus:

“(Name)!” He waved his hand towards you, but your back was turned to him. “Huh, I guess she’s really busy with her project.”

“Is this friend of yours also a racer, Turbo-san?” 

“Well actually, she’s not.”

Hayaku peered at you. “But surely she must be a distraction to you, no?”

“I’m sorry?”

“Please excuse me. My experience is having friends who don’t have the same interests can pull you down, Turbo-san. Since we’ll be having a drift race against one another, I must teach you the art of drifting for a fair—.”

“You know, I don’t appreciate you talking down on my friend like that.” Theo narrowed his eyes. “But I’ll take on your offer for drifting lessons. See you.” He scoffed and walked off to the changing room.

Losing My Guard | Kaeya X GN! Reader

A/N: This is my second imagine on Tumblr. I wanted to touch on some angst. People have usually leaned Kaeya towards a “charming and charismatic are his only traits.” However, I wanted for everyone to look deeper in his internal struggles. A cunning individual, who actually holds good intentions yet has an issue with keep a genuine relationship.

I’m still learning how to improve my writing in hopes to conveying a deeper side of characters better. If there’s any feedback, I welcome it!

Relationships: Kaeya X Reader

Summary: You confronted Captain Kaeya about his aggression.

Warnings: Argument.

Word Count: ~ 400

“..Did something happen, Captain Kaeya?” you asked, closing his office door behind you. The room was dark, only barely illuminated by two candles. You found Kaeya by his desk, writing on sheets of paper with a quill and bottle of ink. 

He was frowning. “What makes you wonder?”

Unusual, you thought.

Your eyes trailed down to Kaeya’s black boots, tapping against the floor. “You’re treating the other knights rather aggressively. If I may be so bold, you’re not being yourself today.” 

“A simple act of discipline,” he spoke. “It seems ever since Grandmaster Varka left on his expedition, our.. grounds have loosened up too much.

“I’m afraid I have to disagree.” You creased your brows. “Their behavior shows nothing more than obedience to orders, Captain.”

You paused. There was a sense of hesitation.

“I’m well aware you have other things to say, (Name).”

“Kaeya. I’m speaking not as your subordinate, but as your friend.” You shut your eyes before uttering, “Did you have an argument with Master Diluc?”

Kaeya’s hand tensed on his quill. Then, he dropped it. 

He scoffed. His breaths quickened, and you immediately sensed you ruffled his feathers. “My, if I am not mistaken, you do not seem to understand your boundaries, (Name). Is this a common trait among Anemo holders?” He stood up from his chair. “No wonder Master Jean thinks you’re special.”

He did not like anyone mentioning his familial relations. You deducted that. “Kaeya, you know I never meant to–.”

Kaeya slowly walked to you. You were beginning to feel intimidated. Your feet stepped backwards until your back was up against the door. The man’s right hand slammed onto the wall beside you. 

His left brought your chin up, and you were forced to meet eye-contact. 

Your body tensed under the heavy glare his eye gave. Kaeya leaned close to your face. Your breath hitched.

“Don’t ever speak of my feud with Diluc. My business is not yours.”

Your voice croaked, “Kaeya.”

“Don’t mock me,” he snapped.

Your hand snatched his left wrist holding your chin. Your tight grip threw him off guard as you pushed him and his hand off.

His eye widened.

“And don’t confuse my concern for mockery, Captain Kaeya,” you hissed.

“The intention was never to show pity either. Is it so wrong for me to worry about your well-being? You were being aggressive with your subordinates!”

Kaeya fell silent, his one eye meeting your two. 

“You’re charming, Captain. I admit that much.” You averted your gaze, wincing. “But this personality of yours is only a mask, is it not? I’m speaking as your friend, remind you.”

The bitterness remained on his face. Yet you also found it softening. 

Kaeya turned away, returning to his desk. His elbows rested on the table with his hands held up. He leaned his head down against his intertwined fingers, releasing a heavy sigh. “I apologize, (Name). I.. have a lot on my mind as of late. Just leave me be.” No fluctuation in his tone, no playfulness, no gentleness. He spoke in a blunt, plain voice.

You furrowed your brows, unable to handle more tension. “I apologize for stepping too far. I don’t know your history with your brother, but I only hope the best between you and Master Diluc.” You turned around and left.

Then, his room stood in silence.

...

Slowly, Kaeya lifted his head and stared at his left wrist. There was a red mark left from your grip. His index finger trailed just along it. 

A strained.. chuckle fell from Kaeya’s lips. 

“I’m slowly losing my guard around you, (Name). I’m doing everything to hide the vulnerable side of mine and my past. Yet you somehow always know how to pull it out.” He took a glass frame from underneath the desk, thumb reaching over a photo of he and his red-headed brother. He recalled the childhood moments, when he had Diluc’s trust. 

Trust.

Maybe, he thought, earning back my brother’s trust requires putting my own in someone. And it would be a good time to confide his inner feelings in someone.

Comfort and Confession | Rise!Leo X F!Reader

A/N: This is my earliest one-shot on Tumblr, and I’ve decided to dedicate that to Leonardo from Rise of TMNT. He’s my favorite character due to his charismatic personality. 

Also, I included some Spanish at the end, but due to a lack of knowledge in that language, I resorted to Google Translate. Anyone with experience in Spanish please inform me if I made a mistake.

Enjoy yourself!

Rise! Leo X Female! Reader (One-Shot)

Word Count: ~2600

You were quietly seated at your study desk, your mechanical pencil maneuvering over your sheet of algebra homework. Your senior year would soon be coming to an end, and yet, your days kept getting overfilled with responsibilities. Not to mention your scholarships and university applications.

Headphones snuggled over your ears, you sighed, holding your chin up with your hand. The shuffled playlist of songs made your silence bearable, even against the loud streets of New York City during the late evening.

Nothing changed out there.

And here you were, feeling your own life about to flip over.

You tapped your pencil rapidly. You tried to shove away those questions, but they seeped in anyway. Have you done enough? Have you made the most of everything? Have you spent enough time with your friends? Soon, your grades wouldn’t be your worry anymore, but your career.

It scared you.

How you could never relax. Let yourself vulnerable.

You were quite popular among your peers: persistent, open-minded, and had always tried to maintain top-quality work. You should be happy, but you ended up being haunted by a fear of slipping up. People say they wouldn’t care, but is it really the case? You had underclassmen looking up to you, friends who admired you, so who’s to say they wouldn’t turn you away once you disappoint them?

Oh, how you could never settle down.

The hues of your eyes gazed out the window, which perfectly hung right by your desk. Your face looked solemn, scanning over the street lights hanging around your neighborhood. Then, you shook your head and took off your headphones, worried that you might have grown distracted. Your music playlist paused.

The mechanical pencil flickered around in your hand, while you turned to read the ninth unit of your AP Chemistry textbook. 

. . .

Tap Tap.

You smiled. Must be the rain. It should’ve been hot outside. Then again, rainfall comes often when you’re by the sea and the temperature’s high.

You felt a bit glad though. Rain had a therapeutic effect on your mind.

There was a pause.

You hummed. Well, that was a quick sprinkle. 

Tap Tap.

Now, the sound puzzled you. What kind of rain paused like that? 

You turned your chair, going to check the weather. Except, your body practically jumped for a second and lost your grasp of the pencil. In that split moment, you knew exactly where– or who– the sound came from. A figure tapped onto your window, waiting to be let in. Your heart still raced under your shocked breaths.

You ran a hand through your hair, trying to laugh your way to being calm again.

“Oh my God.” 

You recognized the person– turtle– who came by occasionally to bother you out of their boredom. He wore an electric-blue mask and adorn in his iconic red markings. He rubbed his nape, cheekily smiling. 

“Leon.” You lifted your window up for an opening. “You scared me. I thought it was some random homeless guy. Or some delinquent trailing me from school. You–. Please give me a heads up next time! You literally have a phone!”

Unfazed, Leonardo waved his hands. “Okay, okay. Relax, Cariña.” He grinned. “You have nothing to worry about! Anyone who tries to come after you will have to mess with me. And who’d be dumb enough to fight a guy like me anyway– did you say someone was following you?”

“Some underclassman, but one of my guy friends usually handles him.” You shrugged.

“I can handle him, (Name)! You could’ve called me!”

“You’re forgetting something, Leo.” You pointed your finger from down to up his figure. “You’re a turtle. I don’t know how well NYC’s gonna take you. Once someone sees you, you’re plastered all over the news.”

He huffed, making himself comfortable on your bed. His katanas laid on the floor. Hands behind his head, Leonardo shut his eyes. “Y’know, having my handsome face across billboards doesn’t sound so bad.”

You snorted. “I wouldn’t exactly say you’re ‘handsome.’”

His grin faltered. Ouch.

“Say whatever you want, Cariña.” He puffed out. “So? Gonna tell me whatcha up to, (Name)? Let me guess: homework here, homework there.” He wagged his feet as he went on.

“Pretty much.” You winced, not expecting your voice to be so strained. “Nothing really changes when you’re a student about to enter the ‘adult’ world.” You curled your fingers in quotations. Leo opened one of his eyes. The lightheartedness he had dropped when he noticed you pursing your lips. You seemed out of it. “Just more responsibilities coming my way. And I thought I’m already having it hard.”

“(Name).”

Leonardo sat up. He extended his palm to yours. His scaly yet gentle touch comforted you. Low-key, he caught you off-guard by how genuine he can be instead of teasing or joking around. You returned a weak smile, rubbing his hand with your thumb.

“Hey. Y’know I’m here to listen. I’m all ears.” He immediately rubbed his nape. He averted his gaze and whistled, “Okay, Leo, weird of you to say when you don’t have any ears– but you get the point.”

You took a deep breath.

Your spare hand twiddled with the hem of your top.

“You remember how I met you and your brothers as a high-school junior, right? Like by accident. Then some time of hanging out and fighting the Foot Clan passed, you guys and April accepted me.

Even when being so different in our personalities and standards, I guess we bonded well. I’ve always appreciated our friendship, because no one there tries to expect anything out of me. Like you guys only cared if I spend time. Although, you are all really goofy to be picky about a friend anyway.”

Leo snorted.

“Except, this year, I’m a senior.” A frown tugged on your lips, and your twiddling hand crept to hold Leo’s other. “The final stage of high school before moving on to college... Even if I attend a school close to here, I’ll be so occupied with my classes, I won’t have any time to spend with you like we normally do. I’ve put in so much effort to focus on my studies. I’m scared to disappoint my family and everyone, but that means I have to give up seeing you guys too.”

Your voice began to break. Your hands retreated and buried your face. The stress of your situation dawned on you.

The thought of you leaving almost stabbed his heart. He clenched his hands. “Hey.” he shook your shoulders. “Enough of that. Don’t get yourself down in the dumps. So what if you don’t come ‘round anymore? You don’t have to be the one to visit us, (Name).” 

Leonardo pulled your hands away from your face, meeting your eyes again. 

“I mean, my brothers and I are ninja turtles, (Name)! April even handled the Foot Clan on her own. If we could do that, busy or not, you bet we’ll trespass the school for you,” he declared, standing up tall with his arms crossed over his plastron.

He seemed a bit too serious with that one.

“Woah, hold on there, Leon,” you laughed, tugging his arms to stop him from continuing. “You’re overlooking a few things, again. Roommates are a thing.” You counted on your fingers. “And would April and your brothers even agree to this? You guys are risking your identities, and April, her journalism career if an officer comes by.”

“No worries.” He tossed the ends of his mask behind, as if flipping his locks of hair. “As the ‘Face’ of Mad Dogs, with my charming personality and for the sake of you, my brothers and sister will never turn down my idea. And since we have Donnie, our plans are unstoppable. We can meet whenever, wherever, s’long as you’re up for it.”

He held his palm out, this time, asking for yours. “So what do you say?”

You stared into his eyes. His sly and devious grin, his charismatic persona, and his oddly-effective methods of reassurance. No wonder you would let yourself fall too long for him.

Your fingers wiped off the trailing tears that linger by your hues, and you leapt off of your chair to embrace Leo to your bed in a hug. Face snuggled into his shoulder while your fingers played with the ends of his blue mask. “Of course.” The red-eared slider tensed– you could tell. Though it wasn’t long until Leonardo loosened up, returning the contact by sliding his arms over your waist. It remained that way for a while, feeling each other’s body rise and fall between each breath.

“Mind if I show you something?” Leonardo whispered.

A soft chuckle left your lips. “Sure.”

“We’re probably gonna have to climb to the top of the apartment, though.”

Now, you tensed up. You could feel your palms become sweaty. You grumbled, “Leonardo–.” “Come on, I’ll hold your hand as we go; you’re not gonna fall,” he promised.

“Even with the fire escapes, you can’t expect me to trust them with how rusty they’ve gotten over the four years of living here. We’re five stories high!”

“Just trust me, (Name).”

You rubbed your palms onto your clothes, drying away the blood-rushing feeling in them. An hesitant smile appeared on your face. “All right. Fine, I’ll go.”

“You won’t regret it, Princesa.”

You shoved his shoulder lightly. Your ears flushed. 

“Please don’t.”

You and Leonardo ducked underneath the window toward the fire escape. At such a height of meters over the bustling streets, your heart rate began to speed up. But like the turtle promised, Leonardo took your hand firmly and guided you up. Your vision quickly adapted to the darkness, so you noticed there was actually– barely any rust on the escape. You could assume the metal had been galvanized. 

At least you could confirm that there’s a lower chance of the escape breaking apart. 

You narrowed your eyes. But never zero.

“All the way to the top, Leon?” Your voice held hesitation. 

“We’re close, (Name). You got this. Just keep holding onto my hand.”

The creaking of the ladder continued, until the two of you finally made it to the apartment roof. You heaved a loud sigh, relieved nothing went wrong. You dusted off your hands. “So, what exactly would this ‘something’ be, Leo?”

The red-eared slider grinned. Placing his hands on your shoulders, he turned you around to face the city. 

And your breath left. 

Your eyes practically glittered.

From that height, the city looked more enchanting. All those vehicles and voices sounded more quiet. So much so, the one thing you could hear were the cool breezes. You walked over and leaned by the edge, taking in the landscape. The mutant held his hand on your waist, making sure you won’t get caught up in the sightseeing.

“Leo.” You sighed in awe. “The view’s so beautiful.” Glancing between him and the scenery, you remarked, “You see this every night, running and hanging on those rooftops? I’ve never gone this high up during the night. And now, I wish I could do this all those nights ago.”

Leonardo only hummed. His hand held his chin, eyes closed, as if he was thinking of something else. You called to him. “Is something up? Do you have to go somewhere?” Your heart almost fell at the idea.

He opened his one eye, before huffing lightheartedly. “No, nothing’s wrong. There’s something–. I swear it should be here–.” Then, he whipped his head up. “Oh-ho! There we go! About time!”

“Huh?” Your eyes gazed up to the sky, covered in layers of clouds. From what you could tell, those clouds were heavy.

Pit. Pat.

Pit. Pat.

Pitter. Patter.

You felt something cold touch your head. It dripped down your face. “Raindrops,” you realized and faced Leonardo, strolling back to your side with a pleased smile. “You were expecting rainfall?”

The red-eared slider sat down by the edge, letting his legs dangle off. He patted the space next to him, meeting your eyes as he did. 

You remembered the height of this building. 

Being cautious, you hesitated. But after months of interaction with someone who’d helped save the city countless times– despite the idea most humans likely wouldn’t treat him back too kindly– you had always put your trust in him. 

“Sí, Cariña,” Leonardo responded. “What would be a better, relaxing day than some rain in New York City~?”

You raised an eyebrow. “I never realized you’re a rainy-day type of guy, Leon. I thought you’d prefer the sun... I mean, sunny weather feels more like your personality after all.” Your contented mood died down, when you found the turtle turning his head away. You quickly felt troubled.

“..Have I said something wrong–?”

“What? N-No, nothing like that.” Leonardo shook his head as he waved his hands. The silence caught up again, so you decided to continue speaking. “You know, Leon. Rain being part of your ‘something’ for me is really a coincidence, because–.”

“I overheard you.”

“I... I’m sorry?”

The red-eared slider felt his blood rushing and heart beating quick. He should be comfortable expressing his feelings. He was supposed to be overly confident! That daring kind of guy! That one mutant with the audacity– as Donnie often reprimanded him. But the embarrassment he felt here was high.

“When you were hanging out with April and Sunita that one time, I... might have or might-have-not overheard you say how much you like rainy weather.” Leonardo rubbed his nape with his clammy hands. His blush was becoming more apparent– even under thick clouds that covered the moonlight. 

“And since Donnie has a weather forecast that predicted a 70% chance of rain, I thought today would be a perfect day to show you the city lights.” His words slowly died into a sheepish mumble.

You were stunned. Your face couldn’t hold back the light blush either. “That was so long ago, I can’t believe you even remembered that.”

You pursed your lips and told him straight on. “I really appreciate it, Leon.”

Anything for you. Leonardo felt his heart flutter inside. “Yeah. O-Of course. I mean, you’re not wrong: I prefer the sunny days and all. Doesn’t mean I don’t mean it when I say rainy days are chill. Never thought I’d feel any more unwinded until today.” He brought his knees close to his plastron.

Soft winds blew. The sprinkling rain pitter-pattered. You could confirm: they were all reasons why you found rainfall soothing. “So,” Leon murmured, “You have any idea on where exactly you’re gonna go past graduation?”

Your face faltered, slowly looking back overhead the city. “Not sure. I could go to the one in Massachusetts to pursue my studies in a high-class school, or stay in New York. I hope to stay as close to here as I can, to be honest. Close to you and everyone: Raph, Donnie, Mikey, April; Casey and Splinter too.”

“You know Mikey’s gonna miss you treating him so well.” Leonardo rolled his eyes and scoffed. You snickered and spoke with the most annoying voice you could conjure up, “Aww. But he’s so precious, how can I not resist giving him special treatment?”

“Youngest child privilege,” he grumbled.

“Thought you love your little brother, Leon~?”

“Woah-woah. Hey now, Cariña, don’t get me wrong. I’ll always love my brothers when they’re not abusing their benefits,” he defended. “Speaking of which, how come I get any?”

You couldn’t tell if your forehead was sweating, or if they were only raindrops. Either way, you sensed some blood rushing to your face. You playfully crossed your arms. “Oh come on, I-I can’t answer that.”

“I’m being serious, (Name)! Let me count my hermanos off.” Leonardo extended all three fingers. “One, you treat Mikey like a mother to a kid. ‘He’s a teenager?’ My point’s still kind of there. Two, you buy a bunch of snacks for Raph whenever you visit. Low-key, I think he’s getting obsessed with shrimp chips. Three, you occasionally have Donnie to tutor you!”

You stopped him. “I wouldn’t even consider that last one a benefit, Leo.”

“Trust me on this one, (Name). As his brother, I know he loves it when he gets the chance to– in his words– ‘share his intellect.’” Leonardo did the bunny-quotes. “But what about me? I’m not looking for any favors– not trying to be that guy. I’m just trying to understand if I did anything wrong to be treated any differently from my brothers.”

You would have continued to tease him, thinking nothing serious of it. However, his fallen shoulders and pained expression told you otherwise.

You fell silent. 

You began, slowly moving your hand toward his, “Leo... I’m sorry, I can assure you you haven’t done anything wrong to upset me.”

“Then, what is–?”

Pit pat, pit pat, pit pat.

Plop, plop plop, plop plop plop.

As more sounds reached your ears, you cursed. “Oh my God. They’re getting heavier. I shouldn’t get sick for tomorrow’s assembly!” You leaned over the fire escape, stopped upon the height, and glanced toward the red-eared slider. 

“L-Leon–.”

“Don’t worry.. I’m here.”

The rainfall became dense. Leonardo held your hand all the way until you two reached your apartment window, where the water had condensed onto the glass, and where some of it fell into your bedroom.

You quickly grabbed two towels from the bathroom, drying any water off your head and on the floor. Walking back to the opening, where Leon waited, you picked up the turtle’s twin swords, knowing he’d have to leave soon. “I hope it won’t be too cold for you to handle out there, Leon.” You handed his weapon.

He shrugged. “Eh... What’s a bit of rain going to do to a mutant turtle living in the sewers? Don’t forget, I got Lou Jitsu’s blood in me too.” He winked. “‘The cold never bothers me anyway.’”

You huffed lightly. “Stay safe.”

“Will do.” Right as Leonardo was about to leave, by instinct, you took your chance and suddenly grabbed his hand, holding him back. The red-eared slider– with wide eyes– gazed down at you, confused yet expectantly.

“I.. I never answered that other question.”

Leonardo’s shoulders slumped. “Forget it.” He waved off. “You said you couldn’t tell me... I shouldn’t be begging you to spill anything personal.”

“No, not like–.” You sighed. “Just come here.”

Leonardo leaned down near the window, concerned. But then, your hand reached out through, fingertips tracing along his jaw, caressing his skin. Your intentionally slow pace gave him enough time to process this moment.

Your red-eared slider leaned right into your touch, and he gulped. His face bringing out a light blush. The very charismatic and overly confident mutant melted under your hold. You moved him closer and closer. Your hues locked in contact, before you both slowly shut them.

The tiny space between your lips gone as you crashed into a kiss.

“Mmm.” His shoulders visibly relaxed. You wrapped your arms around his neck, pulling him closer, as he did around your waist. The heat on your face not going away. Leo’s hands trailed down and gripped your thighs, while you went on playing with the ends of his mask.

After what felt like a minute, you both broke from the kiss, panting softly. Those breaths can be seen against the cold.

“Eres buena para tu primer beso, Cariña~.”

“Como si tuvieras alguna experiencia con los besos, Cariño~.” You used your finger to close his gaping mouth. 

“H-Hold on, you speak Spanish–?”

“High school requires at least two years of a foreign language.” You kissed his neck. “Next time we get a rainy night, you wanna climb up the roof again?”