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Then came the day he was invited to the estate of the Hamato Clan, and his entire life turned upside down.", "count": "16", "submission_left_submission_id": "2233801", "submission_left_file_name": "3247416_Sundayeyes_bell_flowers_6.doc", "submission_right_submission_id": "2233834", "submission_right_file_name": "3247459_Sundayeyes_bell_flowers_8.doc" } ], "description": "Michelangelo had never been known to stay in one place for very long. Taverns and street corners were his hearth and home, because roots can't take hold if you just keep moving, and why would anyone want to sink into the ground so deep that you got stuck?\n\nThey were smart words to live by and had done a good job of keeping him happy enough. At least until the day he was invited to the sprawling estate of the Hamato Clan, and his entire life was turned upside down.\n\nAlternate Universe, AU\nPairings: Leonardo/Michelangelo, Raphael/Donatello\n\n~*~*~*~\n[url=https://inkbunny.net/s/2233801]<--- Chapter Six[/url] __//__ [url=https://inkbunny.net/s/2233834]Chapter Eight --->[/url]\n~*~*~*~\n\nArt for this chapter commissioned from [iconname]riverhayashi[/iconname]! Thank you! I love it so much. <3\nYou can see the [url=https://inkbunny.net/s/2425407]full version of the art here![/url]", "description_bbcode_parsed": "Michelangelo had never been known to stay in one place for very long. Taverns and street corners were his hearth and home, because roots can't take hold if you just keep moving, and why would anyone want to sink into the ground so deep that you got stuck?

They were smart words to live by and had done a good job of keeping him happy enough. At least until the day he was invited to the sprawling estate of the Hamato Clan, and his entire life was turned upside down.

Alternate Universe, AU
Pairings: Leonardo/Michelangelo, Raphael/Donatello

~*~*~*~
<--- Chapter Six __//__ Chapter Eight --->
~*~*~*~

Art for this chapter commissioned from \r\n\t\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\triverhayashi\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t		\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\triverhayashi\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
! Thank you! I love it so much. <3
You can see the full version of the art here!", "writing": "[center]~*~*~*~\n\nChapter Seven: Eyes On You\n\n~*~*~*~[/center]\n\nThe room was almost silent, the only sound Hun's frustrated growls as he glared at the soldiers keeping him in check. Lord Hamato stood blinking in stunned disbelief at the doors his son had just escaped through, the anger flushing his face fading to pale dread, the commanding confidence he held in his shoulders disappearing as they sagged.\n\nWhen minutes had passed with the lord making no move, Leonardo stepped up close to him, lightly touching his elbow, \"Father, we need to talk. And there is still the matter of our... guests.'' he said, nodding his head toward where the rival clan was contained near the door.\n\nMikey sank to the floor, his shell still pressed up against the column at his back. His body felt light, like he would float away if he took his hands off the stone beneath him. As a peasant he knew the consequences for raising arms against a lord. But Hun had deserved it, no one could just claim someone against their will like that... could they? How could Lord Hamato enforce such a thing when Don was acting in self-defense. None of this made any sense.\n\nAnd Raphael and Donnie were gone. Would they be coming back? He didn't know.\n\nDrawn to the sound of Leo's voice he turned his head and saw Lord Hamato flinch, the lord's face a mask of uncertainty. But looking into his eldest son's eyes he seemed to come back to himself, nodding and taking a deep breath as he refocused his thoughts.\n\nStepping forward, the lord drew himself up, \"Hun. You and your men are no longer welcome here. Take your caravan and be gone from my lands, and let it be known that should you ever return you will be met with the full force of my army.''\n\nHun was beside himself with rage, heavily breathing, glowing red, teeth gnashing through deep growls. \"This isn't over, Hamato! I will not be denied! You will deliver what I have claimed, or it is war between our clans! Do you hear me, Hamato?! Do you hear me?!''\n\nHun's bellowing threats faded as Hamato soldiers forced his group out of the hall and down the main steps at sword point. A quiet unease settled over the room once they were gone, the nobles shifting uncomfortably.\n\nIt took a few moments, Lord Hamato was staring, glassy eyed at the doors, Leonardo standing patiently next to him. Finally, he looked down at the floor, all of the fight draining from him, and quietly ordered, \"All of you, get out. Leave us.''\n\nInstantly the nobles were moving, anxious to be out of the room, followed closely by the servants, unsure of their movements without Donatello's direction but still managing to clear what they could of the mess on the way.\n\nSilence settled on the hall again.\n\nEventually the lord looked up, frowning in agitation at the guards still lining the room, \"I said everyone! Out!''\n\nThe soldiers looked uncertain about leaving their posts but moved to comply after only a few seconds. As the last of them filed out of the hall, Mikey slowly began to rise, figuring he should leave as well, but stopped as Leo caught his eye, shaking his head, silently mouthing the word, 'stay'.\n\nHe wasn't at all sure that he should, this seemed like something that should remain between father and son, but he couldn't deny the pleading look in Leo's eyes, so he stayed, silent at the edge of the room, his arms wrapped around his middle.\n\nWith his back to the room, Lord Hamato stood staring at Raphael's chair, no one said anything for a long time. Mikey could hear the muffled sound of servants and soldiers milling around just outside the doors, waiting to be let back in to resume their duties. But the lord just stood, still as a statue.\n\nHe seemed very much like a man who's view of the world had just been shattered. Like everything he thought he knew had turned on its head. Most nobles were like that, too full of their own superiority to see beyond the bubble they live in, blinding themselves to the people around them beyond the service they provide.\n\nBut standing here in the emptiness of this great hall, something was different. A moment ago, the presence of Lord Hamato had filled the space, encapsulating everything he had built, demanding respect with every word he spoke. But the hunched figure standing in front of the dais now was none of those things. He looked defeated, old, like the actions of his second son had been a scenario he never would have imagined.\n\nMikey shifted from foot to foot, the balls of his feet and the backs of his thighs were starting to ache. He felt terrible, and even though he knew it was silly, somehow responsible. He had sensed the danger, seen the look in Hun's eyes. But he had hesitated, like a coward. Why hadn't he done something? Why didn't he speak up or make a move or a distraction, anything that could have helped Donnie before...?\n\nAnd what was going to happen now? Surely Raph didn't mean to stay away forever, but Donnie had said he would be banished, or worse now because of what he had done. Mikey grimaced in frustration, he was just starting to feel the tiniest bit comfortable here, and now everything was falling apart.\n\n\"Why, Leonardo?'' Lord Hamato's quiet sigh finally broke the silence.\n\n\"Father?''\n\n\"Why would he do this? Why would he make this choice? Have I not been a good father? Have I not given him everything?'' The sadness was heavy in his voice, but Leo frowned at the tone.\n\n\"Raphael's choice had little to do with you.'' He shook his head, agitation pushing him forward a few steps, throwing his arms out in frustration. \"In fact, you left him no choice at all!''\n\nThe man drew himself up, bristling at his son's tone, \"Do not speak to me in that way! I am your father and you will show me respect!''\n\nLeo deflated, just a little, but Mikey could still see the fire in his eyes, \"I am sorry, Father. But I stand by what I said, Raphael was backed into a corner. There wasn't any other choice he could have made.''\n\n\"He could have chosen to obey my order!'' Lord Hamato seethed. \"He defied me. Defied everything I have taught him. And for what? For the steward? He could have his choice of anyone, there are fifteen noble families living on this estate alone. Why is he wasting his time consorting with the staff? Donatello is a servant! Why would Raphael abandon his family for a servant?!''\n\n\"Because they're in love!'' Mikey's shout echoed in the hall. He couldn't help himself, his words taking on a mind of their own with no regard for who he was speaking too. \"Donatello is more than a servant, he's a person, he's smart and clever and... and he's my friend, how can you stand there and speak about him so callously?''\n\nLord Hamato had spun on his heel, startled by the unexpected voice, now he stared at Mikey with a look of utter confusion. \"What did you say?'' he asked quietly in response.\n\nMikey shifted his shoulders in embarrassment, the awareness of Leo's wide-eyed stare and the awkward position he had placed himself in crashing over him. \"I said, they're in love.'' He answered, much quieter this time, his eyes on the floor.\n\nThe lord blinked with a frown, \"Who are you?!''\n\n\"Oh, uh, I'm Michelangelo. My lord.'' He added quickly, offering a clumsy bow.\n\n\"Who?''\n\n\"He's my guest, father.'' Leo cut in, pulling the lord's attention from Mikey.\n\nLord Hamato simply blinked at his son for a moment before understanding dawned on him, \"Oh, yes, I remember.'' But then he frowned, \"What does he mean, 'they're in love'?''\n\n\"Just what he said.'' Leo said with impatience. \"Raphael and Donatello are... well they've been hiding what they are, for years now, because they were afraid of what you would do.''\n\n\"What [i]I[/i] would do? What does that mean?''\n\n\"You know what it means!'' Leo stated firmly, losing his temper just enough to raise his voice an octave before regaining control of himself. \"Since we were children you told us to focus on our duties, on the clan, no distractions. When Raphael met Donatello, he knew right away that nothing would ever separate them again and he didn't know what to do.''\n\n\"You... told me you brought him here because of his abilities in service.''\n\n\"We lied.'' Leonardo said honestly, \"We lied to protect him, until we could think of a way to make you understand.''\n\nLord Hamato couldn't have looked more confused if Leo had started speaking another language. \"Raphael and... and Donatello?''\n\n\"Yes.''\n\n\"They are... in love?''\n\n\"Yes.'' Leo answered, closing his eyes to keep himself from rolling them. Lord Hamato was being really slow on the uptake and Mikey was starting to feel like Leonardo might just have the patience of a saint.\n\n\"Why... why didn't they tell me?'' The lord visibly shrunk, standing there, trying to understand what they were saying to him. His voice was so small and lost, and Mikey was surprised when he felt a twinge of pity for the anguished look on his face.\n\nLeonardo however, looked incredulous, staring at his father like he had just sprouted two extra heads. \"Why?! You said you would banish anyone Raphael ever showed any interest in. He tried to talk to you about this so many times! And every argument ended with you insisting that if Raph chose a partner before I sealed a bond then you would banish that person from the estate without a second thought!''\n\n\"I... I said...'' Lord Hamato looked like Leo had just punched him in the gut. \"... I've... made a terrible mistake...''\n\nTears brimmed in the old man's eyes as he sank down to sit on the edge of the dais, burying his face in his hands. Leo pulled back, staring down at his father with a guarded expression, like he had never seen the man act like this and didn't know what to do with it. The lord's shoulders began to shake, and Leo glanced away uncomfortably, a flush of pink coloring his cheeks.\n\nMikey looked back and forth between Lord Hamato and Leonardo, taking in the lord's body language, his bewildered reaction to the idea that his son and the steward might be more than just a passing fling, and a thought occurred to him. He stepped to Leo's side, bringing their heads close together.\n\n\"I'm starting to think that this might be less about Don being a servant and more about something else. From someone that's on the outside of this, it looks like maybe not everyone is on the same page here.'' He whispered, nodding his head toward the despondent lord, \"You should talk to him.''\n\nFor a second it looked like Leo might refuse, his need to defend his brother almost winning over his devotion to his father. But then he sagged and nodded sadly, bumping their foreheads together with a soft smile.\n\nMikey stepped a respectful distance away as Leo crouched in front of his father, laying his hand on the man's knee, quietly waiting until he raised his face from his hands, his cheeks wet in the light.\n\nEventually the lord sighed, \"When I lost Tang Shen, I thought that my life was over as well.'' He began, his voice barely more than a whisper, \"But you and your brother brought love back into my heart. You both reminded me how important it is for the soul to give and receive love and affection. It was never my intention to make either of you think that you could not be free to fall in love. I am so deeply sorry...''\n\nFresh tears escaped to roll down his face and Leo took a deep breath, leaning forward to make his father look at him, \"Then what was your intention, Father? Raphael will want an explanation, he is... very frustrated.''\n\nLord Hamato chanced a small smile, \"Raphael has always allowed his temper to lead his emotions. I was only trying to focus his anger, redirect it toward rewarding goals, to help him find balance.'' Pausing he turned a pleading look on his son, \"Yes, I wanted you to bond first, it is what the council would prefer, but it is also because you are the best role model for Raphael and I wanted to give him something attainable to strive for.''\n\nThe man stood and stepped away, turning back almost immediately, clenching and unclenching his fists in his effort to explain himself. As he swung his arms around Mikey's attention was caught by the glimmer of faintly colored lines peeking out from under the edges of his sleeves that he hadn't noticed before, carnation pink and deep burgundy, swirling around his wrists and down in loops around his fingers. The filigree was like the jagged lines he had seen on Hun's arms, but these were far more delicate, softer and grander somehow. They shined in the light, flowing like rivulets of water. He'd never seen anything like it before.\n\nAfter his father stood Leo rose to sit in his place on the edge of the dais. He looked tired and irritated, but there was also the smallest glint of hope starting to bloom in his eyes. \"Raphael's temper is less of an issue now. Donatello... soothes him in a way that neither you nor I was ever able to accomplish. But you also know that Raph does what he wants when he wants. Trying to force him to conform to what you envision he should be is about as effective as trying to stop a boulder rolling down a hillside.''\n\n\"I know,'' Lord Hamato agreed, perking up a little, \"And it truly does warm my heart to hear that Donatello has perhaps succeeded where we failed. But Raphael's obstinance is partially why I placed these restrictions on you and your brother. I wanted Raphael to focus on his responsibilities, I did not want him to be distracted by frivolous lusts that would only bring him frustration and heartbreak.''\n\n\"You thought he wouldn't be able to separate his duty to the clan from his baser needs.'' Leonardo laid the accusation out flat between them, \"Is that how you truly see him? Father, Raphael is far more capable than you...''\n\n\"Yes, I see that now. I admit that I may have underestimated him. I should have trusted that he would be able to balance himself, especially with your influence to guide him. My own pain has blinded me from seeing the proud, honorable men you both have become, and that pain has kept me from allowing you to make your own choices.'' Despair was plain on his tear stained face as he stood before Leonardo, arms open, begging, \"Please, allow me to make this right. Please forgive me.''\n\nLeo closed his eyes, rubbing his temple as he sighed and looked up at his father, \"I accept your apology, Father, but the truth is I am not the one you need to ask for forgiveness. Raph and Don have suffered for two years because we all thought your word was law on this.''\n\nLord Hamato nodded in defeated understanding, dropping his arms, \"Yes, of course you are right, I...''\n\n\"My lord!'' They all jerked as the main doors flew open and a soldier came striding in, crossing the length of the hall in seconds, \"Apologies for the intrusion, my lord. A messenger just arrived with this.''\n\nLord Hamato accepted a scroll from the man and he left as quickly as he appeared. Mikey could just see a wax seal in the shape of a purple dragon on the side of the roll of paper.\n\nThe lord quickly opened and read the letter as Leo moved to his side. \"It is a letter of demand. Hun expects delivery of his claim by midday four days from now or he will order an attack on the estate.'' Angrily balling up the letter he tossed it onto the floor, turning to his son with a thoughtful frown, \"This is ridiculous. We must find Raphael immediately.''\n\nLeo tilted his head, narrowing his eyes at his father suspiciously, forcing Lord Hamato to quickly clarify, \"I have no intention of releasing Donatello into Hun's custody. But I'm sure you will agree with me that until this is resolved he will be safer here, and we will need Raphael's help to deal with Hun.''\n\nLeo pursed his lips before seeming to make a decision, \"I know where they are,'' He said, holding up his finger to stop his father from speaking when the man opened his mouth to question him, \"And I will go and speak with them, on the condition that they be allowed to return and seal their bond with no further delay. Not only because they have waited long enough, but because Hun can't have Don if he seals his bond with Raphael.''\n\nLord Hamato immediately started nodding as Leo laid out his demand, \"Yes, of course. Please, Leonardo, bring your brother home. Bring them [i]both[/i] home. I have much to make up for and I don't intend to waste any more time.''\n\nAccepting the sincerity in the request, Leo nodded and bowed. Mikey could see he was still wary, one conversation wasn't going to fix years of misunderstanding, but as the eldest son looked up, he spared his father a small smile that brought a little light back into the old man's face.\n\n~*~\n\nLeonardo and Raphael's rooms were two identical row houses, long and low, that faced each other and were connected in the middle by a shared private garden. Following Leo through the lush green space full of maple trees and fragrant blooming flowers, Mikey slowed to a stop and looked at Raph's empty house, its windows dark.\n\n\"Leo? Is everything going to be ok?'' The question was quiet, but it was enough to bring Leonardo to a stop, his shoulders tense.\n\nHe sighed as he turned, looking back at where Mikey had paused, \"I hope so. From the day we brought Donatello here to live with us, I always feared that something like this would happen. That Raph would be forced to choose who he loved more, his family or Don.''\n\n\"But Donnie [i]is[/i] his family.'' Mikey said, frowning at the lonely house.\n\nLeo smiled wistfully, \"Yes, he is.'' he agreed, stepping close and reaching up to rest his hands on Mikey's shoulders, bending his head down with concern as he tried to get the smaller turtle to meet his eyes, \"Are you ok?''\n\nMikey shook his head, looking at his feet, \"I should have done something. I was so useless back there. Donnie needed help and I just...''\n\n\"Mikey, look at me,'' Leo said seriously, waiting for those sad blue eyes to turn to him, \"Hun is a dangerous man, he is violent and unpredictable, he would have hurt you if you had made a move against him. You did nothing wrong.''\n\n\"But I just stood there, if I had made some kind of distraction, maybe Hun wouldn't have been able to...''\n\n\"But don't you see, Mikey?'' Leo interrupted, \"As confusing and unexpected as all of this has been, for the first time there's hope. Father said that he will allow Raph and Don to seal their bond now, the only thing they've wanted for over two years. Hun is... a concern we should not underestimate, but that's all, and we will deal with him. What's important now is that Raph and Don will be able to be together. This is a good thing.''\n\nMikey blinked up at him, slowly smiling as he realized that Leo was right, this was a good thing. All of it had happened so suddenly, and there was still a lot of uncertainty, but right now, all they needed to do was get to Raph and Don.\n\nLetting go of some of the blame he was placing on himself, Mikey stepped in close to play with the toggles on Leo's tunic, \"You're right, they need to know the good news. You said you know where they are?''\n\nLeo gave him a secretive look as he began to trail his fingers up and down Mikey's arms, \"When Raph and I were fourteen, almost fifteen, we were... rebellious, and chafing a bit at life on the estate, so sometimes we would sneak away up into the mountains and pretend to get lost just so we wouldn't have to spend a day training. One day we found a secluded clearing with a great view and decided that we wanted to live there. We spent the next three summers building a cabin. No one knows about it, we've never told father, and we keep it stocked so we can escape up there when we start to feel too... smothered by our duties here. Raph more so than me.'' He finished with a chuckle.\n\n\"Oh, a hidden cabin in the woods?'' Mikey said with a mischievous grin, shivering from Leo's closeness and the way he was lightly touching him, \"Sounds fun.''\n\nMomentarily forgetting about what they were supposed to be doing, Leo smiled slyly, wrapping his arms around Mikey's shoulders, pulling the smaller turtle flush up against him, \"Well, maybe when this is done, you and I should sneak up there for a few days?''\n\n\"Hmm, I think I like that idea.'' Mikey hummed, drawing in a deep breath, caught in the hungry look that Leo was giving him.\n\nThey held there like that, a millimeter apart, looking into each other's eyes so long that Mikey was starting to wonder which one of them was waiting for permission. The rapidly quickening beat of his heart was thumping so hard in his chest that he was sure Leo could feel it.\n\nWhen Leo finally closed the distance and kissed him, he shivered with relief, desire cresting through him in a wave that was threatening to drown him. Grabbing at Leo's shirt for purchase, twisting the fabric in his palms, he pressed into him until all he could feel was the warmth of Leo's skin flushing where they touched.\n\nAnd Leo is bold as he takes what he wants, like something parched and desperate, his fingers fiery flash points as they drag over Mikey's shoulders and up his neck, where his thumbs dig into his jaw to tip his head up, drawing a shaky gasp from Mikey.\n\nMikey has kissed plenty of people before, but never has it felt like his insides were both on fire and trying to float away all at the same time. He shudders as Leo pushes against him, gently forcing him back, until he bumps against the trunk of a tree, moaning as he arches into him, lost in Leo's heat and his scent and the firm pressure of his grip.\n\nWhen warm wetness licks across his lips, begging entrance, Mikey eagerly opens for him, their breaths mingling, pulling Leo closer, then closer still. If he could crawl into Leo's shell with him at this point he would. Tingling shocks shoot through his veins and Mikey's making small needy sounds at the back of his throat, brazenly sneaking his hands down to dip under Leo's tunic, running his fingers firmly, teasing, over the soft skin between his plastron and his shell, churring with delight when Leo trembles.\n\nLeo can't contain his responding churr, groaning at the touch, slamming his hand into the tree next to Mikey's head to steady himself. He breaks away from their kiss with a shaky breath, but stays leaned into him, their foreheads pressed together. Mikey can't stand the loss of it, whining and shaking his head, his mouth still open, pulling at Leo with panting gasps.\n\n\"I... I have to go get Raph and Don...'' Leo says with difficulty.\n\n\"Raph and Don...'' Mikey repeats, his eyes closed, only half aware of what those words mean. If the entire world vanished around them right now, he wouldn't notice.\n\n\"You are... so distracting...'' Leo breaths, dipping down for another kiss, drawing a dizzy moan from Mikey, and there's a tightness building under his shell that he won't be able to ignore for much longer.\n\nBut apparently Leo has the control of a monk, pulling away after only a few more swipes of his tongue, leaving Mikey with a hollow feeling in his chest as Leo steps back, dragging a hand down his face.\n\nBlinking back to reality he finds Leo looking at him like he's under a blazing sun and Mikey is a cup of water. It sends a tremor shooting down his spine that sparks in his tail and he shivers.\n\nLeo swallows, \"I have to... go take care of this. Raph and Don... they're the priority right now.''\n\nMikey nods with a deep shuddering breath, trying his best to ignore the wave of his disappointment. \"Yeah, you're right. This is important.''\n\nLeo reaches out, his fingers twitching like he wants to pull Mikey to him again, like his hand has a mind of its own before it curls into a fist and he breathes. \"I should only be gone a day, the cabin's not far from here. You can... you can stay here in my rooms if you prefer, I'll let the staff know...''\n\n\"Wait, what?'' Mikey frowns, the haze of their passion clearing quickly as he looks at Leo, \"I'm coming with you.''\n\nLeo blinks, surprised, \"You don't have to do that, Mikey. You were right earlier, what you said about feeling like we dragged you into this. This isn't your fight.''\n\n\"It is now! Look, before I was just frustrated because I wasn't sure where you stood with all this,'' he says, gesturing wildly between them, \"And I know I've only been here for a few days, and this is the [i]craziest[/i] thing that's ever happened to me, but one thing I am sure of is that Donnie is my friend, and I said I wanted to help him, and I can't do that if you leave me behind. I'm a part of this now, whether you like it or not, so you can't just... mmph...''\n\nSuddenly Leo is against him again, cutting him off with an ardent kiss, the smaller turtle instantly forgetting what he was about to say, his eyes sliding shut with a happy sigh as Leo's fingers curl around his face. This time the kiss is slow and sweet, the heat from before fading to a simmer under their skin, their lips fitting together like they were meant to be that way.\n\nAfter a long moment Leo pulls back, gently caressing Mikey's cheeks with his thumbs, \"I don't know where you came from,'' he whispers, \"But I think... I think you're exactly what we needed... what [i]I[/i] needed.'' he added so softly that Mikey had to strain to hear him. \"There was a darkness here, a cloud that's been hanging over this family for a long time. But then you walked in, and your light is blinding.''\n\nMikey goes still, numbness seeping into his bones. No one has ever talked to him with such reverence, like he's important, like he's worth something. But the way Leo is looking at him, touching him, makes him feel like a special, precious thing and tears fill his eyes as hope fills him to bursting.\n\nHe doesn't know what to say, so he just smiles, his lip trembling, hoping that it's enough to convey how much those words mean to him. And Leo kisses him again, unable to resist, smiling against his lips.\n\n\"Go and get your things from the guest suite, pack whatever you want to bring, I'll wait for you here.''\n\nAnd Mikey is beaming, wrapping his fingers around Leo's hands where they still rest against his face. He doesn't know what's going to happen, but for the first time in his life the uncertainty doesn't bother him, the idea of allowing himself to be close to someone doesn't frighten him, and he feels like he might explode with happiness.\n\nHe darts away and returns just as quickly with his bag and his case, worried that if he lets Leo out of his sight for even a second too long then he might wake up and find this was all a cruel dream. He even entertains the thought that whatever this thing is that's happening between him and Leo, is definitely a reason to stop running, and that maybe, just maybe, he's finally found a place where he can belong.\n\n[center]~*~*~*~\n\ntbc...[/center]\n", "writing_bbcode_parsed": "
~*~*~*~

Chapter Seven: Eyes On You

~*~*~*~


The room was almost silent, the only sound Hun's frustrated growls as he glared at the soldiers keeping him in check. Lord Hamato stood blinking in stunned disbelief at the doors his son had just escaped through, the anger flushing his face fading to pale dread, the commanding confidence he held in his shoulders disappearing as they sagged.

When minutes had passed with the lord making no move, Leonardo stepped up close to him, lightly touching his elbow, "Father, we need to talk. And there is still the matter of our... guests.'' he said, nodding his head toward where the rival clan was contained near the door.

Mikey sank to the floor, his shell still pressed up against the column at his back. His body felt light, like he would float away if he took his hands off the stone beneath him. As a peasant he knew the consequences for raising arms against a lord. But Hun had deserved it, no one could just claim someone against their will like that... could they? How could Lord Hamato enforce such a thing when Don was acting in self-defense. None of this made any sense.

And Raphael and Donnie were gone. Would they be coming back? He didn't know.

Drawn to the sound of Leo's voice he turned his head and saw Lord Hamato flinch, the lord's face a mask of uncertainty. But looking into his eldest son's eyes he seemed to come back to himself, nodding and taking a deep breath as he refocused his thoughts.

Stepping forward, the lord drew himself up, "Hun. You and your men are no longer welcome here. Take your caravan and be gone from my lands, and let it be known that should you ever return you will be met with the full force of my army.''

Hun was beside himself with rage, heavily breathing, glowing red, teeth gnashing through deep growls. "This isn't over, Hamato! I will not be denied! You will deliver what I have claimed, or it is war between our clans! Do you hear me, Hamato?! Do you hear me?!''

Hun's bellowing threats faded as Hamato soldiers forced his group out of the hall and down the main steps at sword point. A quiet unease settled over the room once they were gone, the nobles shifting uncomfortably.

It took a few moments, Lord Hamato was staring, glassy eyed at the doors, Leonardo standing patiently next to him. Finally, he looked down at the floor, all of the fight draining from him, and quietly ordered, "All of you, get out. Leave us.''

Instantly the nobles were moving, anxious to be out of the room, followed closely by the servants, unsure of their movements without Donatello's direction but still managing to clear what they could of the mess on the way.

Silence settled on the hall again.

Eventually the lord looked up, frowning in agitation at the guards still lining the room, "I said everyone! Out!''

The soldiers looked uncertain about leaving their posts but moved to comply after only a few seconds. As the last of them filed out of the hall, Mikey slowly began to rise, figuring he should leave as well, but stopped as Leo caught his eye, shaking his head, silently mouthing the word, 'stay'.

He wasn't at all sure that he should, this seemed like something that should remain between father and son, but he couldn't deny the pleading look in Leo's eyes, so he stayed, silent at the edge of the room, his arms wrapped around his middle.

With his back to the room, Lord Hamato stood staring at Raphael's chair, no one said anything for a long time. Mikey could hear the muffled sound of servants and soldiers milling around just outside the doors, waiting to be let back in to resume their duties. But the lord just stood, still as a statue.

He seemed very much like a man who's view of the world had just been shattered. Like everything he thought he knew had turned on its head. Most nobles were like that, too full of their own superiority to see beyond the bubble they live in, blinding themselves to the people around them beyond the service they provide.

But standing here in the emptiness of this great hall, something was different. A moment ago, the presence of Lord Hamato had filled the space, encapsulating everything he had built, demanding respect with every word he spoke. But the hunched figure standing in front of the dais now was none of those things. He looked defeated, old, like the actions of his second son had been a scenario he never would have imagined.

Mikey shifted from foot to foot, the balls of his feet and the backs of his thighs were starting to ache. He felt terrible, and even though he knew it was silly, somehow responsible. He had sensed the danger, seen the look in Hun's eyes. But he had hesitated, like a coward. Why hadn't he done something? Why didn't he speak up or make a move or a distraction, anything that could have helped Donnie before...?

And what was going to happen now? Surely Raph didn't mean to stay away forever, but Donnie had said he would be banished, or worse now because of what he had done. Mikey grimaced in frustration, he was just starting to feel the tiniest bit comfortable here, and now everything was falling apart.

"Why, Leonardo?'' Lord Hamato's quiet sigh finally broke the silence.

"Father?''

"Why would he do this? Why would he make this choice? Have I not been a good father? Have I not given him everything?'' The sadness was heavy in his voice, but Leo frowned at the tone.

"Raphael's choice had little to do with you.'' He shook his head, agitation pushing him forward a few steps, throwing his arms out in frustration. "In fact, you left him no choice at all!''

The man drew himself up, bristling at his son's tone, "Do not speak to me in that way! I am your father and you will show me respect!''

Leo deflated, just a little, but Mikey could still see the fire in his eyes, "I am sorry, Father. But I stand by what I said, Raphael was backed into a corner. There wasn't any other choice he could have made.''

"He could have chosen to obey my order!'' Lord Hamato seethed. "He defied me. Defied everything I have taught him. And for what? For the steward? He could have his choice of anyone, there are fifteen noble families living on this estate alone. Why is he wasting his time consorting with the staff? Donatello is a servant! Why would Raphael abandon his family for a servant?!''

"Because they're in love!'' Mikey's shout echoed in the hall. He couldn't help himself, his words taking on a mind of their own with no regard for who he was speaking too. "Donatello is more than a servant, he's a person, he's smart and clever and... and he's my friend, how can you stand there and speak about him so callously?''

Lord Hamato had spun on his heel, startled by the unexpected voice, now he stared at Mikey with a look of utter confusion. "What did you say?'' he asked quietly in response.

Mikey shifted his shoulders in embarrassment, the awareness of Leo's wide-eyed stare and the awkward position he had placed himself in crashing over him. "I said, they're in love.'' He answered, much quieter this time, his eyes on the floor.

The lord blinked with a frown, "Who are you?!''

"Oh, uh, I'm Michelangelo. My lord.'' He added quickly, offering a clumsy bow.

"Who?''

"He's my guest, father.'' Leo cut in, pulling the lord's attention from Mikey.

Lord Hamato simply blinked at his son for a moment before understanding dawned on him, "Oh, yes, I remember.'' But then he frowned, "What does he mean, 'they're in love'?''

"Just what he said.'' Leo said with impatience. "Raphael and Donatello are... well they've been hiding what they are, for years now, because they were afraid of what you would do.''

"What I would do? What does that mean?''

"You know what it means!'' Leo stated firmly, losing his temper just enough to raise his voice an octave before regaining control of himself. "Since we were children you told us to focus on our duties, on the clan, no distractions. When Raphael met Donatello, he knew right away that nothing would ever separate them again and he didn't know what to do.''

"You... told me you brought him here because of his abilities in service.''

"We lied.'' Leonardo said honestly, "We lied to protect him, until we could think of a way to make you understand.''

Lord Hamato couldn't have looked more confused if Leo had started speaking another language. "Raphael and... and Donatello?''

"Yes.''

"They are... in love?''

"Yes.'' Leo answered, closing his eyes to keep himself from rolling them. Lord Hamato was being really slow on the uptake and Mikey was starting to feel like Leonardo might just have the patience of a saint.

"Why... why didn't they tell me?'' The lord visibly shrunk, standing there, trying to understand what they were saying to him. His voice was so small and lost, and Mikey was surprised when he felt a twinge of pity for the anguished look on his face.

Leonardo however, looked incredulous, staring at his father like he had just sprouted two extra heads. "Why?! You said you would banish anyone Raphael ever showed any interest in. He tried to talk to you about this so many times! And every argument ended with you insisting that if Raph chose a partner before I sealed a bond then you would banish that person from the estate without a second thought!''

"I... I said...'' Lord Hamato looked like Leo had just punched him in the gut. "... I've... made a terrible mistake...''

Tears brimmed in the old man's eyes as he sank down to sit on the edge of the dais, burying his face in his hands. Leo pulled back, staring down at his father with a guarded expression, like he had never seen the man act like this and didn't know what to do with it. The lord's shoulders began to shake, and Leo glanced away uncomfortably, a flush of pink coloring his cheeks.

Mikey looked back and forth between Lord Hamato and Leonardo, taking in the lord's body language, his bewildered reaction to the idea that his son and the steward might be more than just a passing fling, and a thought occurred to him. He stepped to Leo's side, bringing their heads close together.

"I'm starting to think that this might be less about Don being a servant and more about something else. From someone that's on the outside of this, it looks like maybe not everyone is on the same page here.'' He whispered, nodding his head toward the despondent lord, "You should talk to him.''

For a second it looked like Leo might refuse, his need to defend his brother almost winning over his devotion to his father. But then he sagged and nodded sadly, bumping their foreheads together with a soft smile.

Mikey stepped a respectful distance away as Leo crouched in front of his father, laying his hand on the man's knee, quietly waiting until he raised his face from his hands, his cheeks wet in the light.

Eventually the lord sighed, "When I lost Tang Shen, I thought that my life was over as well.'' He began, his voice barely more than a whisper, "But you and your brother brought love back into my heart. You both reminded me how important it is for the soul to give and receive love and affection. It was never my intention to make either of you think that you could not be free to fall in love. I am so deeply sorry...''

Fresh tears escaped to roll down his face and Leo took a deep breath, leaning forward to make his father look at him, "Then what was your intention, Father? Raphael will want an explanation, he is... very frustrated.''

Lord Hamato chanced a small smile, "Raphael has always allowed his temper to lead his emotions. I was only trying to focus his anger, redirect it toward rewarding goals, to help him find balance.'' Pausing he turned a pleading look on his son, "Yes, I wanted you to bond first, it is what the council would prefer, but it is also because you are the best role model for Raphael and I wanted to give him something attainable to strive for.''

The man stood and stepped away, turning back almost immediately, clenching and unclenching his fists in his effort to explain himself. As he swung his arms around Mikey's attention was caught by the glimmer of faintly colored lines peeking out from under the edges of his sleeves that he hadn't noticed before, carnation pink and deep burgundy, swirling around his wrists and down in loops around his fingers. The filigree was like the jagged lines he had seen on Hun's arms, but these were far more delicate, softer and grander somehow. They shined in the light, flowing like rivulets of water. He'd never seen anything like it before.

After his father stood Leo rose to sit in his place on the edge of the dais. He looked tired and irritated, but there was also the smallest glint of hope starting to bloom in his eyes. "Raphael's temper is less of an issue now. Donatello... soothes him in a way that neither you nor I was ever able to accomplish. But you also know that Raph does what he wants when he wants. Trying to force him to conform to what you envision he should be is about as effective as trying to stop a boulder rolling down a hillside.''

"I know,'' Lord Hamato agreed, perking up a little, "And it truly does warm my heart to hear that Donatello has perhaps succeeded where we failed. But Raphael's obstinance is partially why I placed these restrictions on you and your brother. I wanted Raphael to focus on his responsibilities, I did not want him to be distracted by frivolous lusts that would only bring him frustration and heartbreak.''

"You thought he wouldn't be able to separate his duty to the clan from his baser needs.'' Leonardo laid the accusation out flat between them, "Is that how you truly see him? Father, Raphael is far more capable than you...''

"Yes, I see that now. I admit that I may have underestimated him. I should have trusted that he would be able to balance himself, especially with your influence to guide him. My own pain has blinded me from seeing the proud, honorable men you both have become, and that pain has kept me from allowing you to make your own choices.'' Despair was plain on his tear stained face as he stood before Leonardo, arms open, begging, "Please, allow me to make this right. Please forgive me.''

Leo closed his eyes, rubbing his temple as he sighed and looked up at his father, "I accept your apology, Father, but the truth is I am not the one you need to ask for forgiveness. Raph and Don have suffered for two years because we all thought your word was law on this.''

Lord Hamato nodded in defeated understanding, dropping his arms, "Yes, of course you are right, I...''

"My lord!'' They all jerked as the main doors flew open and a soldier came striding in, crossing the length of the hall in seconds, "Apologies for the intrusion, my lord. A messenger just arrived with this.''

Lord Hamato accepted a scroll from the man and he left as quickly as he appeared. Mikey could just see a wax seal in the shape of a purple dragon on the side of the roll of paper.

The lord quickly opened and read the letter as Leo moved to his side. "It is a letter of demand. Hun expects delivery of his claim by midday four days from now or he will order an attack on the estate.'' Angrily balling up the letter he tossed it onto the floor, turning to his son with a thoughtful frown, "This is ridiculous. We must find Raphael immediately.''

Leo tilted his head, narrowing his eyes at his father suspiciously, forcing Lord Hamato to quickly clarify, "I have no intention of releasing Donatello into Hun's custody. But I'm sure you will agree with me that until this is resolved he will be safer here, and we will need Raphael's help to deal with Hun.''

Leo pursed his lips before seeming to make a decision, "I know where they are,'' He said, holding up his finger to stop his father from speaking when the man opened his mouth to question him, "And I will go and speak with them, on the condition that they be allowed to return and seal their bond with no further delay. Not only because they have waited long enough, but because Hun can't have Don if he seals his bond with Raphael.''

Lord Hamato immediately started nodding as Leo laid out his demand, "Yes, of course. Please, Leonardo, bring your brother home. Bring them both home. I have much to make up for and I don't intend to waste any more time.''

Accepting the sincerity in the request, Leo nodded and bowed. Mikey could see he was still wary, one conversation wasn't going to fix years of misunderstanding, but as the eldest son looked up, he spared his father a small smile that brought a little light back into the old man's face.

~*~

Leonardo and Raphael's rooms were two identical row houses, long and low, that faced each other and were connected in the middle by a shared private garden. Following Leo through the lush green space full of maple trees and fragrant blooming flowers, Mikey slowed to a stop and looked at Raph's empty house, its windows dark.

"Leo? Is everything going to be ok?'' The question was quiet, but it was enough to bring Leonardo to a stop, his shoulders tense.

He sighed as he turned, looking back at where Mikey had paused, "I hope so. From the day we brought Donatello here to live with us, I always feared that something like this would happen. That Raph would be forced to choose who he loved more, his family or Don.''

"But Donnie is his family.'' Mikey said, frowning at the lonely house.

Leo smiled wistfully, "Yes, he is.'' he agreed, stepping close and reaching up to rest his hands on Mikey's shoulders, bending his head down with concern as he tried to get the smaller turtle to meet his eyes, "Are you ok?''

Mikey shook his head, looking at his feet, "I should have done something. I was so useless back there. Donnie needed help and I just...''

"Mikey, look at me,'' Leo said seriously, waiting for those sad blue eyes to turn to him, "Hun is a dangerous man, he is violent and unpredictable, he would have hurt you if you had made a move against him. You did nothing wrong.''

"But I just stood there, if I had made some kind of distraction, maybe Hun wouldn't have been able to...''

"But don't you see, Mikey?'' Leo interrupted, "As confusing and unexpected as all of this has been, for the first time there's hope. Father said that he will allow Raph and Don to seal their bond now, the only thing they've wanted for over two years. Hun is... a concern we should not underestimate, but that's all, and we will deal with him. What's important now is that Raph and Don will be able to be together. This is a good thing.''

Mikey blinked up at him, slowly smiling as he realized that Leo was right, this was a good thing. All of it had happened so suddenly, and there was still a lot of uncertainty, but right now, all they needed to do was get to Raph and Don.

Letting go of some of the blame he was placing on himself, Mikey stepped in close to play with the toggles on Leo's tunic, "You're right, they need to know the good news. You said you know where they are?''

Leo gave him a secretive look as he began to trail his fingers up and down Mikey's arms, "When Raph and I were fourteen, almost fifteen, we were... rebellious, and chafing a bit at life on the estate, so sometimes we would sneak away up into the mountains and pretend to get lost just so we wouldn't have to spend a day training. One day we found a secluded clearing with a great view and decided that we wanted to live there. We spent the next three summers building a cabin. No one knows about it, we've never told father, and we keep it stocked so we can escape up there when we start to feel too... smothered by our duties here. Raph more so than me.'' He finished with a chuckle.

"Oh, a hidden cabin in the woods?'' Mikey said with a mischievous grin, shivering from Leo's closeness and the way he was lightly touching him, "Sounds fun.''

Momentarily forgetting about what they were supposed to be doing, Leo smiled slyly, wrapping his arms around Mikey's shoulders, pulling the smaller turtle flush up against him, "Well, maybe when this is done, you and I should sneak up there for a few days?''

"Hmm, I think I like that idea.'' Mikey hummed, drawing in a deep breath, caught in the hungry look that Leo was giving him.

They held there like that, a millimeter apart, looking into each other's eyes so long that Mikey was starting to wonder which one of them was waiting for permission. The rapidly quickening beat of his heart was thumping so hard in his chest that he was sure Leo could feel it.

When Leo finally closed the distance and kissed him, he shivered with relief, desire cresting through him in a wave that was threatening to drown him. Grabbing at Leo's shirt for purchase, twisting the fabric in his palms, he pressed into him until all he could feel was the warmth of Leo's skin flushing where they touched.

And Leo is bold as he takes what he wants, like something parched and desperate, his fingers fiery flash points as they drag over Mikey's shoulders and up his neck, where his thumbs dig into his jaw to tip his head up, drawing a shaky gasp from Mikey.

Mikey has kissed plenty of people before, but never has it felt like his insides were both on fire and trying to float away all at the same time. He shudders as Leo pushes against him, gently forcing him back, until he bumps against the trunk of a tree, moaning as he arches into him, lost in Leo's heat and his scent and the firm pressure of his grip.

When warm wetness licks across his lips, begging entrance, Mikey eagerly opens for him, their breaths mingling, pulling Leo closer, then closer still. If he could crawl into Leo's shell with him at this point he would. Tingling shocks shoot through his veins and Mikey's making small needy sounds at the back of his throat, brazenly sneaking his hands down to dip under Leo's tunic, running his fingers firmly, teasing, over the soft skin between his plastron and his shell, churring with delight when Leo trembles.

Leo can't contain his responding churr, groaning at the touch, slamming his hand into the tree next to Mikey's head to steady himself. He breaks away from their kiss with a shaky breath, but stays leaned into him, their foreheads pressed together. Mikey can't stand the loss of it, whining and shaking his head, his mouth still open, pulling at Leo with panting gasps.

"I... I have to go get Raph and Don...'' Leo says with difficulty.

"Raph and Don...'' Mikey repeats, his eyes closed, only half aware of what those words mean. If the entire world vanished around them right now, he wouldn't notice.

"You are... so distracting...'' Leo breaths, dipping down for another kiss, drawing a dizzy moan from Mikey, and there's a tightness building under his shell that he won't be able to ignore for much longer.

But apparently Leo has the control of a monk, pulling away after only a few more swipes of his tongue, leaving Mikey with a hollow feeling in his chest as Leo steps back, dragging a hand down his face.

Blinking back to reality he finds Leo looking at him like he's under a blazing sun and Mikey is a cup of water. It sends a tremor shooting down his spine that sparks in his tail and he shivers.

Leo swallows, "I have to... go take care of this. Raph and Don... they're the priority right now.''

Mikey nods with a deep shuddering breath, trying his best to ignore the wave of his disappointment. "Yeah, you're right. This is important.''

Leo reaches out, his fingers twitching like he wants to pull Mikey to him again, like his hand has a mind of its own before it curls into a fist and he breathes. "I should only be gone a day, the cabin's not far from here. You can... you can stay here in my rooms if you prefer, I'll let the staff know...''

"Wait, what?'' Mikey frowns, the haze of their passion clearing quickly as he looks at Leo, "I'm coming with you.''

Leo blinks, surprised, "You don't have to do that, Mikey. You were right earlier, what you said about feeling like we dragged you into this. This isn't your fight.''

"It is now! Look, before I was just frustrated because I wasn't sure where you stood with all this,'' he says, gesturing wildly between them, "And I know I've only been here for a few days, and this is the craziest thing that's ever happened to me, but one thing I am sure of is that Donnie is my friend, and I said I wanted to help him, and I can't do that if you leave me behind. I'm a part of this now, whether you like it or not, so you can't just... mmph...''

Suddenly Leo is against him again, cutting him off with an ardent kiss, the smaller turtle instantly forgetting what he was about to say, his eyes sliding shut with a happy sigh as Leo's fingers curl around his face. This time the kiss is slow and sweet, the heat from before fading to a simmer under their skin, their lips fitting together like they were meant to be that way.

After a long moment Leo pulls back, gently caressing Mikey's cheeks with his thumbs, "I don't know where you came from,'' he whispers, "But I think... I think you're exactly what we needed... what I needed.'' he added so softly that Mikey had to strain to hear him. "There was a darkness here, a cloud that's been hanging over this family for a long time. But then you walked in, and your light is blinding.''

Mikey goes still, numbness seeping into his bones. No one has ever talked to him with such reverence, like he's important, like he's worth something. But the way Leo is looking at him, touching him, makes him feel like a special, precious thing and tears fill his eyes as hope fills him to bursting.

He doesn't know what to say, so he just smiles, his lip trembling, hoping that it's enough to convey how much those words mean to him. And Leo kisses him again, unable to resist, smiling against his lips.

"Go and get your things from the guest suite, pack whatever you want to bring, I'll wait for you here.''

And Mikey is beaming, wrapping his fingers around Leo's hands where they still rest against his face. He doesn't know what's going to happen, but for the first time in his life the uncertainty doesn't bother him, the idea of allowing himself to be close to someone doesn't frighten him, and he feels like he might explode with happiness.

He darts away and returns just as quickly with his bag and his case, worried that if he lets Leo out of his sight for even a second too long then he might wake up and find this was all a cruel dream. He even entertains the thought that whatever this thing is that's happening between him and Leo, is definitely a reason to stop running, and that maybe, just maybe, he's finally found a place where he can belong.

~*~*~*~

tbc...

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