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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/2255939]<--- Chapter Fourteen[/url] __//__ [url=https://inkbunny.net/s/2269190]Chapter Sixteen --->[/url]\n~*~*~*~", "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 Fourteen __//__ Chapter Sixteen --->
~*~*~*~", "writing": "[center]~*~*~*~\n\nChapter Fifteen: Playing For Keeps\n\n~*~*~*~[/center]\n\nThe eastern wall came into view sooner than he expected after trudging through the forest with the unconscious priest perched on his shoulder. The massive construct of brick and mortar was almost as tall as the trees themselves.\n\nMikey remembered how it had appeared to him on his first day, the way it stretched across the landscape as he gaped at it through the small carriage window. He'd never seen anything like it before in his life, and if he was honest it had scared him, the way that most things did. Then, the wall had seemed like a coiling snake, twisting around and holding him tight enough to squeeze his freedom from him. Now it had taken on an entirely new meaning.\n\nAs he approached the towering structure, he felt a calm settle over him like nothing he had ever felt before. He looked at it and all he saw was security, safety and stability. He saw Leonardo, looking at him like he was the only thing in the entire world that mattered. He saw love, he saw comfort, he saw home.\n\nHe also saw one of the captains that had accompanied him and Leo on their picnic the other morning standing in the shadow of a cherry tree next to where the small hidden door was concealed, waiting for him. It made sense Leo would leave a man there to make sure he found his way back in safely.\n\n\"Um, hello.'' Mikey said as he approached with a smile.\n\nThe captain bowed, \"My Lord Leonardo bid me wait for you here. He will be pleased to see you have succeeded.'' His eyes darted down to the blood on his sleeve with concern, \"Are you injured?''\n\nGlancing at his wound Mikey shook his head, \"Oh, no, it's fine. This guy put up a bit of a fight but it's just a scratch.''\n\nThe captain nodded, \"We will have our healers look at it at once.''\n\nMikey balked at that, he didn't have time to waste with the healers, he needed to get to Leo and make sure that Raph and Don were alright.\n\n\"I'm more worried about getting this priest somewhere secure before he wakes up.'' He said. \"This is gonna sound crazy, but he has this strange ability to make you see things that aren't there.''\n\n\"Not crazy at all.'' The captain said as he opened the door and let Mikey back onto the estate, sealing it closed behind them, \"Our priests have anticipated what some of his powers might be. We will let them know at once so they may counteract anything he tries to do. Please follow me.''\n\nThey crossed the grounds quickly toward an area of the estate that Mikey hadn't visited yet. Behind the line of barracks was a small squat building made of stone with no windows and only one door. Thinking it was a cell of some sort Mikey prepared to let the priest slide off his shoulder, but he was surprised when the captain opened the door to reveal nothing but a narrow stairway leading down into the ground.\n\nWithout a word the captain began to descend into the darkness. Apprehensively Mikey watched him disappear, pausing for only a moment to question all of his life choices before following.\n\nAt the bottom a large cavern had been carved out of the earth, with small cells lining each side closed in by iron bars. Near the very back of the space a group stood watching them advance.\n\nThey indicated an open cell and Mikey dropped the priest on the ground, stepping back while the captain explained what Mikey had told him to one of the Hamato priests.\n\nA stern looking healer stepped forward and grabbed at his arm, pulling him away from the group. A spike of anxiety hit him hard, not knowing where the healer was leading him or what was going to happen if he allowed it was unsettling and the last thing he wanted to deal with just then.\n\nMikey shook his head, tugging to free his arm, \"No, no... it's fine... I need to get... please let go of my... I have to go tell Leo...''\n\n\"Young man, please hold still and let me treat your wound!''\n\nYanking himself out of the healer's grip Mikey took off for the stairs, yelling over his shoulder, \"Sorry! I really gotta go!''\n\nShouts for him to wait followed him but he had no intention of stopping, nothing short of being tackled to the ground was going to stop him from getting to Leo and making sure Donnie was still alive.\n\nHe made for the main gates at a full sprint not really thinking about how far away the meadow where the fight was being staged actually was. It didn't take long for his lungs to start burning from the exertion, but he didn't slow down. He had to get there as quickly as possible, it wasn't even a choice, it was something he felt in his bones, like a weight in his chest. He had to know they were all alright.\n\nRounding the corner of the stables he saw the hulking form of one of Hamato's generals standing near a large stallion. Surprise lit across the large turtle's face as he held out his arm, motioning as Mikey ran toward him, \"Young sir, please stop! Lord Leonardo asked me to bring you to him as soon as you returned.''\n\n\"Oh, really?'' Mike gasped, stopping to lean on his knees, swallowing around heaving breaths, \"That would be... great...''\n\n\"Are you alright?'' The general asked, concerned. \"Your arm. You are bleeding.''\n\nMikey should have been grateful that everyone was so concerned about his well being, and normally he would have been. But right now, his arm was the absolute least of his worries and he really wished everyone would just shut up about it. It didn't even sting anymore.\n\n\"My arm is fine!'' He asserted. \"Look, I just need to get to Leo... uh, Lord Leonardo... right now. Please.''\n\n\"Of course.'' The general answered, not even questioning his slip of the honorific, quickly climbing onto the stallion and reaching down for Mikey. \"Climb up behind me and I will take you there at once.''\n\nRelieved, he quickly accepted the offered hand and settled himself behind the general, gripping the edges of his shell and squeezing the horse with his knees. The animal leapt to a gallop and almost before Mikey could blink, they were through the main gate and passing through the village toward the meadow.\n\nHe heard the crowd before it came into view. A cascading roar of yells and shouts that ebbed and flowed on the wind. He craned his neck over the general's shoulder to see and his breath caught. Half of the Hamato army was there, dwarfing the numbers of Hun's men as they packed themselves around the wide-open space.\n\nA crashing wave of relief overcame him as they reached the challenge area. An open ring had been constructed for combat and Mikey could see Raph and Don in the middle of it. Don was covered in mud and more than a little blood, but he seemed to be holding his own for the most part. They both looked tired and worn out, their breathing heavy as they fought their opponents.\n\nDon was paired with a man that was only half as large as Hun but still formidable for his size. Mikey assumed he must be one of Hun's generals, brought in to even the odds once Raph made it clear that Don would be joining him for the fight. He stared at the long wooden staff Don swung around his body with ease, his fingers a blur as it twisted in his grip, expertly halting its arc with a jab that caught the general right in his gut, forcing him to stagger back, gasping for air.\n\nRaph was facing off against Hun himself, both of them sporting split lips and fresh bruises that bloomed across their skin. Hun wiped at the trickle of blood on his chin and dove for Raph with a snarl, his clenched fists raised. Raph easily side stepped him, crouching and swinging his leg in an arc trying to catch Hun at his ankles, but Hun leapt up at the last second, avoiding the hit.\n\nSpinning on the balls of his feet, Hun pushed against the ground with an enraged yell, catching Raph on the center of his plastron with his bulging shoulder, taking them both down to the mud. With a grunt he rose to his knees and began pummeling Raph with his fists, hitting his face and shoulders and neck, anywhere he could reach.\n\nAs Raph took the blows he managed to wedge one leg up between them, planting his foot against Hun's chest and pushing as hard as he could, growling deep and low, sending the brute flying backward through the air.\n\nHe quickly rolled and regained his feet before Hun even hit the ground, leaping to Don's rescue just as the general was about to land a blow across the back of his mate's shell with a katana that gleamed in the midday light.\n\nRaph's sai caught the blade with a clang of metal and Don ducked away, sweeping his staff low to catch the general behind his knees, knocking his legs out from under him and sending him crashing to the ground. The sword in the general's hands flew out of his grip, causing part of the nearby taunting crowd to scatter as it sailed into them.\n\n\"Raph!'' Don yelled and instantly Raphael spun, blocking Hun's massive arm and the blow that was aimed directly at his head. Their fists flew as Raph beat him back away from Don.\n\nRed with fury, Hun knocked aside Raph's arm and surged forward, closing his meaty hand around the second son's throat, lifting him from the ground and tossing him aside like he weighed nothing at all.\n\nThe crowd roared as Raph hit the ground rolling, bouncing back to his feet as he skid to a stop. Hun stalked toward him, his lip curled into a sneer. Raph twirled his weapons, snapping the points flat against his forearms and charged forward without giving Hun the chance to think about his next attack.\n\nSurprised, Hun staggered backward, raising his arms in a defensive posture. Raph jumped into the air, intent on slamming his foot into Hun's throat with the entire force of his body, but Hun was faster, grabbing ahold of Raph's ankle and flinging him aside.\n\nDon's staff was moving too fast to see, thrumming hollowly through the air as he whipped it against the general's arms and legs, anywhere the thug left an opening, forcing his opponent backward with each strike. Beads of sweat were rolling down his neck and he was almost hyperventilating, he was breathing so heavily, but he never relented, not wanting to give the general even a second to counter his attack.\n\nMikey held his breath watching Don. Leo had been absolutely right, Don was better than good, maybe not take down Leo or Lord Hamato himself good, but he could certainly defend himself better then it seemed anyone in the crowd had expected, judging by the gasps and cheers that met each of his strikes against the general.\n\nMikey's attention was drawn away from the action as they stopped next to a raised dais where Leonardo was seated next to his father. Leo shot to his feet as their eyes met and Mikey couldn't hold back a moan of relief.\n\nHe slid from the horse's back and hurried forward, Leo meeting him halfway, wrapping his arms around his mate's neck in a desperate hug. They held to each other close, not caring for the moment how many of the gathered soldiers saw. Leo's breath on his neck and the weight of his arms was the only thing that mattered, and Mikey let everything else fade, just for a second. He hadn't realized how tense he was until he felt Leo's warmth melting the stiffness in his muscles away.\n\nLeo pushed him back, holding his shoulders, looking him over closely, \"Are you alright? Are you hurt? Is that blood?!''\n\n\"I'm fine!'' Mikey assured him, \"It's nothing, just a scratch.''\n\nLeo frowned, \"Why didn't the healers treat you? I told them, as soon as you returned...''\n\n\"They tried, I wouldn't let them, it's not their fault.'' The last thing Mikey wanted was for anyone to get in trouble because of him.\n\n\"What do you mean you wouldn't let...''\n\n\"I just had to get to you. I didn't want to waste time... I needed...'' He trailed off. Now that he was safely back in Leo's arms, he couldn't help but be a little embarrassed by how frantic he had been acting.\n\nLeo's face softened and he smiled, rubbing Mikey's cheek with his thumb. \"Are you sure you're alright?'' He asked again, quieter this time.\n\nMikey nodded and then smiled proudly, \"I got him. One crazy old priest in custody. And there are seven terrified bond prisoners being held in the largest pavilion.'' He added, pointing at where the top of Hun's tent could just be seen over the crowd. \"We gotta get them out of there, Leo.''\n\nLeo looked at him, shaking his head in amazement. \"We will... right now.''\n\nHe pulled back and went straight to Lord Hamato, whispering in his ear everything Mikey had just told him. The lord listened closely, nodding as Leo finished.\n\nWithout hesitation, Lord Hamato stood and stepped forward, drawing a breath as if he were preparing to call an end to the match. But before he could speak a sharp gasp rippled through the gathered crowd, a wave of movement pulling the sea of bodies inward toward the combat ring.\n\nMoving quickly to Leo's side, Mikey stood on his toes to see over their heads, fear lancing through him.\n\nThe general had broken past Don's defenses and had him down on one knee in a headlock, his foot pressing Don's staff into the mud. Raph was on the offensive, pushing Hun backward toward where Don struggled, but he was nowhere near close enough to help his mate.\n\nSomething small and bright flashed in the sunlight only a moment before Mikey realized what it was. He yelled a warning too late as the general raised his arm and plunged the dagger into Don's side, his friend hissing a cry through his teeth as he shoved back against his attacker.\n\nLeonardo cried foul, shouting Don's name as the crowd erupted in anger, the deafening noise drowning out even Raphael's deep yells.\n\nMikey didn't know what to do. The soldiers in front of them were packed so thick even Leo was having trouble getting them to move. He could see dark red spreading through the cloth on Don's side below the hilt of the dagger wedged just behind his plastron.\n\nBut Don wasn't down. Far from it in fact.\n\nThe general staggered back as Don shoved against him with his shell. Spinning on his knee, he brought his staff up, mud flying in an arc around him. With a keening shout and all the strength he had, he jabbed the end up hard, right into his opponent's nose.\n\nBlood sprayed from the generals face as his nasal cavity collapsed and he was dead before he even hit the ground, his head lolling side to side as the blood bubbled down his cheeks and pooled in his eyes.\n\nRaph was still moving in an unrelenting onslaught that gave Hun no chance to do anything other than defend himself. With a bellowing shout the second son leapt into the air, his foot connecting dead center on Hun's chest sending the rival leader flying backward. Hun only just kept his footing, his heels leaving deep trenches where they slid in the mud.\n\nHe came to a stop close to where Don still knelt on the ground. Quickly taking advantage of the opening, Don spun again on both knees, bringing his staff around with the full force of his strength, yelling through clenched teeth as the wood connected with Hun's ankle, shattering the bone.\n\nThe crack of it echoed in the meadow, all of Hun's men and most of the Hamato soldiers groaning at the sound. Hun's leg buckled as he released a primal screech, reaching down toward the pain.\n\nBut he barely had the chance to move before Raphael's shadow fell over him. He looked up at the second son flying through the air, the tips of his weapons glinting in the light, the full weight of his body knocking the brute flat on his back as Raph snarled and plunged both sai deep into Hun's chest.\n\nSilence. Every man was still as a statue.\n\nThe only sounds were Raph's growling breaths and the wet, bloody gurgle in Hun's throat as he twitched in the mud.\n\nThree seconds later, maybe five, Hun went completely limp and didn't move again.\n\nDon was on his carapace, his breath coming in short quick gasps, staring wide eyed at the sky. Raph blinked, the fog of his rage lifting as he pulled his weapons out of Hun's chest cavity.\n\nAs he stood the whole of Hun's army scattered, dropping their weapons and running in every direction as fast as their feet would carry them.\n\nWithin seconds Lord Hamato was yelling commands, ordering his men to give chase and apprehend every single one of the rival clan's soldiers before they could escape.\n\nBut it was all background noise as Mikey leapt into the combat ring right behind Leo, sprinting to where Raph stood looking down at what was left of Hun. He shook himself as they approached, his eyes darting to where his mate lay in the mud. He made a noise that echoed around them, an anguished grunting yell ripping from his throat as he rushed to Don's side, looking down into his face.\n\n\"Don?! Donnie?! You're ok... it's ok... HEALER! I need a healer NOW!!''\n\n\"Raphie... I'm fine...'' Don whispered, reaching for Raph's hand and wincing as the movement of his arm pulled at the dagger still in his side.\n\nMikey hit his knees, gently lifting Don's head out of the mud to cradle it in his lap, trying not to look at the blood pooling under his shell as it soaked into the ground. Don was getting paler by the second and he could feel the shakes rippling across his olive skin as the shock set in.\n\nUnsure of what to do, Mikey looked up to find Leo standing over them protectively. \"Leo...?''\n\n\"He'll be alright.'' Leo said, turning his head to hide the tremor in his voice, waving his arm to catch the attention of two healers rushing toward them.\n\n\"Is this... is this hurting ya', Donnie?'' Raph said quietly, reaching for the dagger. \"Let me... let me get it out...''\n\n\"DON'T!'' One of the healers screamed as they approached. \"Don't touch it! If the blade has pierced an artery he could bleed out in seconds.''\n\nRaph jerked his hand away, fear in his eyes at what he might have just done. The healer knelt beside Don, carefully ripping open his tunic and examining his wound closely, before looking up into Raph's terrified eyes.\n\n\"I think this might not be as bad as it looks, my lord.'' She said. \"It appears as if he may have moved just as the dagger pierced his side and the blade was pushed forward toward his plastron. If we are lucky it will not have cut through any vital organs... will you allow us to care for him?''\n\nMikey realized the woman had to ask that last question because Raph was still leaned forward over Don, practically covering him with his body as he stared desperately at the healer. After a second Raph blinked and nodded unsteadily, leaning away but keeping a tight grip on Don's hand.\n\nThe healers gathered close, working quickly, cleaning Don's side of the sticky mud and then pressing their hands together to cover the place where the dagger protruded from his side as well as the area of his plastron directly above it. They began to chant a quiet song that sounded more like a prayer and Mikey saw a pale-yellow light begin to softly glow through their fingers.\n\nDon's eyes were squeezed shut, his teeth bared. He whimpered and stiffened as the healer's finished their chant and let out an exhausted cry before going perfectly still.\n\nFor one terrifying moment Mikey thought Donatello was gone. He looked down at his friend as if he were looking through a long tunnel, so numb he felt like he was floating. But just as tears threatened to fill his eyes, he caught the movement of Don's chest as it gently rose and fell with his steady breaths and Mikey let out a soft gasping laugh of relief.\n\nThe yellow shining glow faded, and the healer gently slid the dagger out of Don's body, quickly pressing a thick cloth to the wound, catching the small amount of blood that seeped out before it was covered.\n\nThey moved to lift Don onto a stretcher but Raph would have none of it, insisting on carrying his mate himself. The healer gave him a tight look but didn't argue, holding the cloth firmly against Don's side as they walked to a wagon waiting nearby.\n\nMikey stood on shaking legs, watching as they rolled away back toward the estate. He sighed when Leo leaned into him and wrapped his arms around his shoulders.\n\n\"He'll be alright.'' Leo repeated.\n\nNodding against his plastron, Mikey turned to look back at Hun's corpse, gasping as he finally noticed that the jagged purple lines that twisted around his forearms had disappeared, like they were never there to begin with.\n\n~*~\n\nLeonardo left him under the watchful eye of Lord Hamato while he accompanied his soldiers to help with the capture of Hun's men as well as the infiltration and cleanup of his camp. The lord invited him to share his carriage and before long they were trundling back across the meadow toward the estate.\n\nMichelangelo fidgeted with his hands in his lap finding himself suddenly and unexpectedly alone with the clan leader. They were halfway back to the village when Lord Hamato finally broke the uncomfortable silence.\n\n\"Thank you for your assistance today.'' He said. \"I do not want you to think it was a wasted effort. Even though Hun has been slain, we will still learn much from this priest that you brought into our custody. His methods for completing the bonds that Hun was benefiting from have long been a mystery to us and my priests will be eager to question him.''\n\nMikey nodded, not quite comfortable enough to meet his eyes. \"I was happy to help, my lord.''\n\n\"I trust you are not under the impression that life on the estate is always this exciting.'' The lord added. \"I assure you the days here are usually quite dull.''\n\n\"I... I wasn't...'' Mikey stuttered.\n\n\"My son speaks very highly of you. He does not give praise easily... and he does not open himself to others easily either.'' Lord Hamato said pointedly. \"Leonardo has always been cautious and guarded with his heart. What he needs is someone who can bring him out of his shell... so to speak.''\n\nFinally relaxing a little, Mikey couldn't help but grin at the implied joke. \"I think highly of him too... my lord.''\n\n\"I believe you.'' The lord said, continuing after a thoughtful pause. \"I wish to confess... I have been rather selfish. My reasons for bringing together a group of young people from which my son could choose a mate were purely political. The council has been expressing their displeasure that Leonardo is not yet bonded, and I felt that a push in that direction was required as he seemed to have no interest in... well...''\n\nLord Hamato turned to gaze out the window, \"I allowed myself to be blinded by the optics of life as a clan leader and failed to notice that my sons are now grown and should be free to make their own decisions.'' He sighed and turned back to look Mikey in the eye. \"The truth is, I am a stubborn old man that forgot how joyous love should be. I never truly meant to put anyone in such an awkward position, least of all you, and I would be humbled if you would accept my apology.''\n\nLord Hamato waited, smiling softly with his hands folded in his lap while Mikey stared at him wide eyed, unsure of what to say. This day didn't seem like it was real anymore. Was the lord of the Hamato Clan truly asking forgiveness from him, a peasant? How was he supposed to respond to that?\n\nKnowing he probably looked ridiculous with his mouth opening and closing like a fish, he swallowed and took a breath. \"You have nothing to apologize for, my lord. Coming here has been the best thing that's ever happened to me. My life before was... empty... but now I have a reason to wake up in the morning. I have a home where I feel welcome and I have people I care about... falling in love with Leo has changed my life... and it never would have happened if you hadn't...''\n\nHis voice trailed off as he noticed the hope in Lord Hamato's eyes.\n\n\"You are in love with him?'' The lord asked with quiet wonder.\n\nMikey blinked, hearing his own words playing back in his head. Saying those three words to Leo had been one thing, a special secret that only the two of them shared. But, saying them to Lord Hamato made everything real in a permanent, binding way and he felt his cheeks flush with heat.\n\n\"I am.'' He answered, a calm certainty coming over him as he faced the lord and smiled.\n\nLord Hamato returned the smile, relief and joy shining in his eyes. He nodded his acceptance and said nothing more, turning to look out the small carriage window again.\n\nMikey almost couldn't believe it. Gaining Raphael's acceptance had felt liberating, like he imagined a warrior must feel after a battle. But this was different. This was warm and comfortable, like a parent expressing approval to a beloved child. And Lord Hamato had just given it, with no demands or expectations.\n\nHe accepted Mikey's statement of love because, apparently, that was all he needed to hear. It was a refreshingly simple gesture.\n\nHe leaned back against his seat, observing the lord from the corner of his eye, astonished and thankful and feeling like, no matter what life threw at him next, he would be ready, because everything had finally fallen into place.\n\n~*~\n\nArriving back at the estate, work quickly began helping the villagers gather their belongings so they could return to their homes. Mikey spent an hour darting around packing supplies and securing bags and boxes onto carts. He would have worked until the last villager left the courtyard, but Lord Hamato eventually dragged him away, insisting that he bathe and change and eat something.\n\nThe sun was setting by the time he returned to the main hall. The healers had finally caught up with him and now there were half a dozen stitches in his arm, wrapped under a tight bandage. He was numb with exhaustion, but he lit up to see Leonardo was there and speaking to his father.\n\nLeo reached for him as he stepped close, needing to feel Mikey's warmth against his side as he continued to brief Lord Hamato.\n\nHe explained that much of what was Hun's had been absorbed into the Hamato army directly including his equipment and animals, the rest was used to build a pyre that they had thrown Hun's body onto and lit aflame, mostly without ceremony.\n\nMikey felt like he might doze on his feet so long as Leo was holding him up. He let his gaze sweep across the room as he tried to listen, his mate's soothing voice little more than a low hum in his ears.\n\nServants and soldiers were cataloguing and sorting items from Hun's camp, turning the chaotic mess into something orderly. When his attention was drawn to the sunken area in the middle of the room it took him a full minute before he recognized the group nestled into the cushions.\n\nThere they were, being fawned over by healers and servants offering bowls of broth. The newly freed bond prisoners sat huddled together, their faces open and awestruck, like they had just woken from a long nightmare, the terrible ugly lines on their arms nowhere to be seen.\n\nHe caught a flash of bright green, the elder sister sitting up and looking him straight in the face. He had been wearing a hood when they spoke in the tent, it seemed like ages ago now, but he was sure she recognized him anyway. She smiled and mouthed a genuine [i]thank you[/i] before turning back to her sister sleeping beside her.\n\nTears filled his eyes, grateful for her gratitude even though he knew he hadn't really done anything to earn it.\n\n[i]You gave them hope...[/i] A little voice whispered in his head and he supposed that was true.\n\nSaying a sleepy goodnight to Lord Hamato, Leo wrapped an arm tightly around his shoulders and led him from the room. Stars were appearing in the darkened sky, twinkling innocently like nothing at all strange had happened that day.\n\nLeo kissed his head as they entered the garden between the row houses. \"Let's check in on Don before we turn in for the night.''\n\nPerking up a little, Mikey nodded, eager to see how his friend was doing. They knocked, leaning against each other as they waited for Raph to open the door. The second son looked just as exhausted as they were, but the fear was gone from his eyes.\n\n\"How is he?'' Leo asked.\n\n\"Sleepin''' Raph mumbled. \"The healers said he'll be ok so long as he rests. He's lucky the dagger didn't do any permanent damage...''\n\nLeo must have heard something in his brother's voice because he quickly spoke over him, \"Don't blame yourself for this Raph. Donnie made his choice. He knew what the dangers were.''\n\nRaph sighed, shaking his head. \"I didn't protect him...''\n\nLeo gave him an exasperated look, \"You know what Donnie would say if he was awake to hear you say that don't you?''\n\nRaph huffed, knowing the answer even if he didn't want to admit it. \"That he doesn't need to be protected...''\n\nLeo smiled and after a moment Raph smiled back.\n\n\"You need to get some rest too, Raph.'' Mikey quietly chimed in. \"Don't stay up all night watching him sleep.''\n\n\"No promises.'' Raph said around a smirk as he closed the door.\n\nThey turned and started walking back across the garden toward the other house. They were only halfway there when suddenly Mikey was struck by a thought. It was something that had been nagging at the back of his mind since the day before and in a blink, it solidified into a fully formed idea.\n\nHe pulled up short, causing Leo to look back at him in confusion. \"Mikey? What is it?''\n\n\"I want to teach music to the children.'' Mikey said breathlessly.\n\n\"Music? What do you mean?'' Leo asked, confused.\n\nA rush of excited energy made him bounce a little on his feet. \"I want to have a purpose here. I need to be useful and helpful. Everyone here has something that they do, something they're good at. I don't want to just be your mate, or whatever I am. I... I want the clan to accept me because I have value... because I... I want to try...''\n\nHe grunted with frustration trying to find the words to explain what he was thinking. Yesterday, in the courtyard, playing his songs for the children, seeing their smiles and hearing their laughter... it had felt right. Like something was showing him the path he was meant to take. He wanted every child in the village to feel the joy that music could bring because that was the one shining force that had kept him grounded as he struggled through every day. No matter how bad things were, he always had his guitar and a song to sing, so he always had a little bit of happiness. He wanted to show the children that they could create their own happiness, even when there was nothing to be happy about.\n\nHis head was buzzing with so much excitement over the idea that he didn't notice how Leo's shoulders had sagged until he stepped forward to cup Mikey's cheek with his hand, looking at him with a serious expression.\n\n\"Mikey, you don't need to prove anything to anyone here. There's no obligation for you to work or... to perform for...'' He sighed, a darkness shadowing his eyes, \"You're free to go now, if that's what you want.''\n\nMikey shook his head, confused. \"What?''\n\n\"You were brought here on my father's order because of his misguided beliefs and traditions.'' Leo said with a troubled frown, \"If your choices during the last few days have been influenced by a belief that you are expected to stay because of our position over you then...''\n\n\"Leo, stop.'' Mikey spoke, placing a finger over his lips to silence him. This wasn't what he had expected to hear, but right away he could see what Leo was doing.\n\nLeonardo, always selfless, always cautious, always guarded. Donatello and Lord Hamato both had warned him. Leo was hiding behind his own barriers, protecting himself in case Mikey revealed that his choice to stay had been because of fear or some other ulterior motive. He was bracing himself for the pain of Mikey walking away.\n\nIt was a defense mechanism, and that was something Mikey understood all too well.\n\n\"And I thought I was skittish.'' Mikey chuckled, but to his surprise Leo flinched and he was forced to tightly grip his mate's forearms as the eldest son started to pull away. \"Leo, look at me. If I wanted to leave, I would already be gone. I've spent every day of my life running, avoiding my problems and worries and fears. But... you make me brave. You are the reason that I'm not scared anymore. I told you last night that I'm not going anywhere, and I meant it.''\n\nLeo closed his eyes with a shudder, clenching his fists at his side. When he finally spoke again, his voice was a whisper, \"I was afraid...''\n\nMikey pressed in close, running his fingers along Leo's shoulder in a gentle caress. \"Afraid of what?''\n\n\"That you wouldn't come back.'' Leo answered, opening his eyes. \"That you would be hurt, or killed, or maybe that you would just leave. I don't know what I would have done... if you didn't...''\n\nMikey surged forward, claiming Leo's mouth, pouring every ounce of his want and need, his determination and dedication and all of his love into a kiss that left them both breathless, clinging and panting and whimpering in an effort to convey what they felt now that the words were failing them. Foreheads pressed together, they breathed each other's air, trembling with the force of the emotion threatening to overwhelm them.\n\nMikey released a shaky breath, \"I love you.''\n\n\"I love you.'' Leo answered without hesitation, \"From the moment I laid eyes on you, I felt my soul calling to you. Please, tell me you feel it too.''\n\n\"I feel it.'' Mikey whispered. Now that he knew what it was, he realized he had felt it all along. From the first day, sitting on that bench under the cherry trees, his song drifting through the air around them. It was what had filled the empty space inside him as he looked into Leonardo's eyes for the first time, this feeling of contentment and peace and overwhelming joy.\n\nIt was the only thing he would ever need for the rest of his life.\n\nHe reached up and wrapped his arms around Leo's neck, pressing another kiss to his lips before pulling back and looking deeply into the hazel eyes he had come to love so, so much.\n\n\"Take me to bed.'' He said, low and pleading.\n\nIn that instant all the doubt and fear between them was quelled, replaced with an all-encompassing trust and love that had them swaying against each other under the power of it.\n\nWith a hungry smile, Leonardo picked him up, wrapping his legs around his waist, kissing him as they entered the house they now shared, both of them knowing there was not one thing in the entire world that could have stopped him from complying with that quiet, heated request.\n\n[center]~*~*~*~\n\ntbc...[/center]", "writing_bbcode_parsed": "
~*~*~*~

Chapter Fifteen: Playing For Keeps

~*~*~*~


The eastern wall came into view sooner than he expected after trudging through the forest with the unconscious priest perched on his shoulder. The massive construct of brick and mortar was almost as tall as the trees themselves.

Mikey remembered how it had appeared to him on his first day, the way it stretched across the landscape as he gaped at it through the small carriage window. He'd never seen anything like it before in his life, and if he was honest it had scared him, the way that most things did. Then, the wall had seemed like a coiling snake, twisting around and holding him tight enough to squeeze his freedom from him. Now it had taken on an entirely new meaning.

As he approached the towering structure, he felt a calm settle over him like nothing he had ever felt before. He looked at it and all he saw was security, safety and stability. He saw Leonardo, looking at him like he was the only thing in the entire world that mattered. He saw love, he saw comfort, he saw home.

He also saw one of the captains that had accompanied him and Leo on their picnic the other morning standing in the shadow of a cherry tree next to where the small hidden door was concealed, waiting for him. It made sense Leo would leave a man there to make sure he found his way back in safely.

"Um, hello.'' Mikey said as he approached with a smile.

The captain bowed, "My Lord Leonardo bid me wait for you here. He will be pleased to see you have succeeded.'' His eyes darted down to the blood on his sleeve with concern, "Are you injured?''

Glancing at his wound Mikey shook his head, "Oh, no, it's fine. This guy put up a bit of a fight but it's just a scratch.''

The captain nodded, "We will have our healers look at it at once.''

Mikey balked at that, he didn't have time to waste with the healers, he needed to get to Leo and make sure that Raph and Don were alright.

"I'm more worried about getting this priest somewhere secure before he wakes up.'' He said. "This is gonna sound crazy, but he has this strange ability to make you see things that aren't there.''

"Not crazy at all.'' The captain said as he opened the door and let Mikey back onto the estate, sealing it closed behind them, "Our priests have anticipated what some of his powers might be. We will let them know at once so they may counteract anything he tries to do. Please follow me.''

They crossed the grounds quickly toward an area of the estate that Mikey hadn't visited yet. Behind the line of barracks was a small squat building made of stone with no windows and only one door. Thinking it was a cell of some sort Mikey prepared to let the priest slide off his shoulder, but he was surprised when the captain opened the door to reveal nothing but a narrow stairway leading down into the ground.

Without a word the captain began to descend into the darkness. Apprehensively Mikey watched him disappear, pausing for only a moment to question all of his life choices before following.

At the bottom a large cavern had been carved out of the earth, with small cells lining each side closed in by iron bars. Near the very back of the space a group stood watching them advance.

They indicated an open cell and Mikey dropped the priest on the ground, stepping back while the captain explained what Mikey had told him to one of the Hamato priests.

A stern looking healer stepped forward and grabbed at his arm, pulling him away from the group. A spike of anxiety hit him hard, not knowing where the healer was leading him or what was going to happen if he allowed it was unsettling and the last thing he wanted to deal with just then.

Mikey shook his head, tugging to free his arm, "No, no... it's fine... I need to get... please let go of my... I have to go tell Leo...''

"Young man, please hold still and let me treat your wound!''

Yanking himself out of the healer's grip Mikey took off for the stairs, yelling over his shoulder, "Sorry! I really gotta go!''

Shouts for him to wait followed him but he had no intention of stopping, nothing short of being tackled to the ground was going to stop him from getting to Leo and making sure Donnie was still alive.

He made for the main gates at a full sprint not really thinking about how far away the meadow where the fight was being staged actually was. It didn't take long for his lungs to start burning from the exertion, but he didn't slow down. He had to get there as quickly as possible, it wasn't even a choice, it was something he felt in his bones, like a weight in his chest. He had to know they were all alright.

Rounding the corner of the stables he saw the hulking form of one of Hamato's generals standing near a large stallion. Surprise lit across the large turtle's face as he held out his arm, motioning as Mikey ran toward him, "Young sir, please stop! Lord Leonardo asked me to bring you to him as soon as you returned.''

"Oh, really?'' Mike gasped, stopping to lean on his knees, swallowing around heaving breaths, "That would be... great...''

"Are you alright?'' The general asked, concerned. "Your arm. You are bleeding.''

Mikey should have been grateful that everyone was so concerned about his well being, and normally he would have been. But right now, his arm was the absolute least of his worries and he really wished everyone would just shut up about it. It didn't even sting anymore.

"My arm is fine!'' He asserted. "Look, I just need to get to Leo... uh, Lord Leonardo... right now. Please.''

"Of course.'' The general answered, not even questioning his slip of the honorific, quickly climbing onto the stallion and reaching down for Mikey. "Climb up behind me and I will take you there at once.''

Relieved, he quickly accepted the offered hand and settled himself behind the general, gripping the edges of his shell and squeezing the horse with his knees. The animal leapt to a gallop and almost before Mikey could blink, they were through the main gate and passing through the village toward the meadow.

He heard the crowd before it came into view. A cascading roar of yells and shouts that ebbed and flowed on the wind. He craned his neck over the general's shoulder to see and his breath caught. Half of the Hamato army was there, dwarfing the numbers of Hun's men as they packed themselves around the wide-open space.

A crashing wave of relief overcame him as they reached the challenge area. An open ring had been constructed for combat and Mikey could see Raph and Don in the middle of it. Don was covered in mud and more than a little blood, but he seemed to be holding his own for the most part. They both looked tired and worn out, their breathing heavy as they fought their opponents.

Don was paired with a man that was only half as large as Hun but still formidable for his size. Mikey assumed he must be one of Hun's generals, brought in to even the odds once Raph made it clear that Don would be joining him for the fight. He stared at the long wooden staff Don swung around his body with ease, his fingers a blur as it twisted in his grip, expertly halting its arc with a jab that caught the general right in his gut, forcing him to stagger back, gasping for air.

Raph was facing off against Hun himself, both of them sporting split lips and fresh bruises that bloomed across their skin. Hun wiped at the trickle of blood on his chin and dove for Raph with a snarl, his clenched fists raised. Raph easily side stepped him, crouching and swinging his leg in an arc trying to catch Hun at his ankles, but Hun leapt up at the last second, avoiding the hit.

Spinning on the balls of his feet, Hun pushed against the ground with an enraged yell, catching Raph on the center of his plastron with his bulging shoulder, taking them both down to the mud. With a grunt he rose to his knees and began pummeling Raph with his fists, hitting his face and shoulders and neck, anywhere he could reach.

As Raph took the blows he managed to wedge one leg up between them, planting his foot against Hun's chest and pushing as hard as he could, growling deep and low, sending the brute flying backward through the air.

He quickly rolled and regained his feet before Hun even hit the ground, leaping to Don's rescue just as the general was about to land a blow across the back of his mate's shell with a katana that gleamed in the midday light.

Raph's sai caught the blade with a clang of metal and Don ducked away, sweeping his staff low to catch the general behind his knees, knocking his legs out from under him and sending him crashing to the ground. The sword in the general's hands flew out of his grip, causing part of the nearby taunting crowd to scatter as it sailed into them.

"Raph!'' Don yelled and instantly Raphael spun, blocking Hun's massive arm and the blow that was aimed directly at his head. Their fists flew as Raph beat him back away from Don.

Red with fury, Hun knocked aside Raph's arm and surged forward, closing his meaty hand around the second son's throat, lifting him from the ground and tossing him aside like he weighed nothing at all.

The crowd roared as Raph hit the ground rolling, bouncing back to his feet as he skid to a stop. Hun stalked toward him, his lip curled into a sneer. Raph twirled his weapons, snapping the points flat against his forearms and charged forward without giving Hun the chance to think about his next attack.

Surprised, Hun staggered backward, raising his arms in a defensive posture. Raph jumped into the air, intent on slamming his foot into Hun's throat with the entire force of his body, but Hun was faster, grabbing ahold of Raph's ankle and flinging him aside.

Don's staff was moving too fast to see, thrumming hollowly through the air as he whipped it against the general's arms and legs, anywhere the thug left an opening, forcing his opponent backward with each strike. Beads of sweat were rolling down his neck and he was almost hyperventilating, he was breathing so heavily, but he never relented, not wanting to give the general even a second to counter his attack.

Mikey held his breath watching Don. Leo had been absolutely right, Don was better than good, maybe not take down Leo or Lord Hamato himself good, but he could certainly defend himself better then it seemed anyone in the crowd had expected, judging by the gasps and cheers that met each of his strikes against the general.

Mikey's attention was drawn away from the action as they stopped next to a raised dais where Leonardo was seated next to his father. Leo shot to his feet as their eyes met and Mikey couldn't hold back a moan of relief.

He slid from the horse's back and hurried forward, Leo meeting him halfway, wrapping his arms around his mate's neck in a desperate hug. They held to each other close, not caring for the moment how many of the gathered soldiers saw. Leo's breath on his neck and the weight of his arms was the only thing that mattered, and Mikey let everything else fade, just for a second. He hadn't realized how tense he was until he felt Leo's warmth melting the stiffness in his muscles away.

Leo pushed him back, holding his shoulders, looking him over closely, "Are you alright? Are you hurt? Is that blood?!''

"I'm fine!'' Mikey assured him, "It's nothing, just a scratch.''

Leo frowned, "Why didn't the healers treat you? I told them, as soon as you returned...''

"They tried, I wouldn't let them, it's not their fault.'' The last thing Mikey wanted was for anyone to get in trouble because of him.

"What do you mean you wouldn't let...''

"I just had to get to you. I didn't want to waste time... I needed...'' He trailed off. Now that he was safely back in Leo's arms, he couldn't help but be a little embarrassed by how frantic he had been acting.

Leo's face softened and he smiled, rubbing Mikey's cheek with his thumb. "Are you sure you're alright?'' He asked again, quieter this time.

Mikey nodded and then smiled proudly, "I got him. One crazy old priest in custody. And there are seven terrified bond prisoners being held in the largest pavilion.'' He added, pointing at where the top of Hun's tent could just be seen over the crowd. "We gotta get them out of there, Leo.''

Leo looked at him, shaking his head in amazement. "We will... right now.''

He pulled back and went straight to Lord Hamato, whispering in his ear everything Mikey had just told him. The lord listened closely, nodding as Leo finished.

Without hesitation, Lord Hamato stood and stepped forward, drawing a breath as if he were preparing to call an end to the match. But before he could speak a sharp gasp rippled through the gathered crowd, a wave of movement pulling the sea of bodies inward toward the combat ring.

Moving quickly to Leo's side, Mikey stood on his toes to see over their heads, fear lancing through him.

The general had broken past Don's defenses and had him down on one knee in a headlock, his foot pressing Don's staff into the mud. Raph was on the offensive, pushing Hun backward toward where Don struggled, but he was nowhere near close enough to help his mate.

Something small and bright flashed in the sunlight only a moment before Mikey realized what it was. He yelled a warning too late as the general raised his arm and plunged the dagger into Don's side, his friend hissing a cry through his teeth as he shoved back against his attacker.

Leonardo cried foul, shouting Don's name as the crowd erupted in anger, the deafening noise drowning out even Raphael's deep yells.

Mikey didn't know what to do. The soldiers in front of them were packed so thick even Leo was having trouble getting them to move. He could see dark red spreading through the cloth on Don's side below the hilt of the dagger wedged just behind his plastron.

But Don wasn't down. Far from it in fact.

The general staggered back as Don shoved against him with his shell. Spinning on his knee, he brought his staff up, mud flying in an arc around him. With a keening shout and all the strength he had, he jabbed the end up hard, right into his opponent's nose.

Blood sprayed from the generals face as his nasal cavity collapsed and he was dead before he even hit the ground, his head lolling side to side as the blood bubbled down his cheeks and pooled in his eyes.

Raph was still moving in an unrelenting onslaught that gave Hun no chance to do anything other than defend himself. With a bellowing shout the second son leapt into the air, his foot connecting dead center on Hun's chest sending the rival leader flying backward. Hun only just kept his footing, his heels leaving deep trenches where they slid in the mud.

He came to a stop close to where Don still knelt on the ground. Quickly taking advantage of the opening, Don spun again on both knees, bringing his staff around with the full force of his strength, yelling through clenched teeth as the wood connected with Hun's ankle, shattering the bone.

The crack of it echoed in the meadow, all of Hun's men and most of the Hamato soldiers groaning at the sound. Hun's leg buckled as he released a primal screech, reaching down toward the pain.

But he barely had the chance to move before Raphael's shadow fell over him. He looked up at the second son flying through the air, the tips of his weapons glinting in the light, the full weight of his body knocking the brute flat on his back as Raph snarled and plunged both sai deep into Hun's chest.

Silence. Every man was still as a statue.

The only sounds were Raph's growling breaths and the wet, bloody gurgle in Hun's throat as he twitched in the mud.

Three seconds later, maybe five, Hun went completely limp and didn't move again.

Don was on his carapace, his breath coming in short quick gasps, staring wide eyed at the sky. Raph blinked, the fog of his rage lifting as he pulled his weapons out of Hun's chest cavity.

As he stood the whole of Hun's army scattered, dropping their weapons and running in every direction as fast as their feet would carry them.

Within seconds Lord Hamato was yelling commands, ordering his men to give chase and apprehend every single one of the rival clan's soldiers before they could escape.

But it was all background noise as Mikey leapt into the combat ring right behind Leo, sprinting to where Raph stood looking down at what was left of Hun. He shook himself as they approached, his eyes darting to where his mate lay in the mud. He made a noise that echoed around them, an anguished grunting yell ripping from his throat as he rushed to Don's side, looking down into his face.

"Don?! Donnie?! You're ok... it's ok... HEALER! I need a healer NOW!!''

"Raphie... I'm fine...'' Don whispered, reaching for Raph's hand and wincing as the movement of his arm pulled at the dagger still in his side.

Mikey hit his knees, gently lifting Don's head out of the mud to cradle it in his lap, trying not to look at the blood pooling under his shell as it soaked into the ground. Don was getting paler by the second and he could feel the shakes rippling across his olive skin as the shock set in.

Unsure of what to do, Mikey looked up to find Leo standing over them protectively. "Leo...?''

"He'll be alright.'' Leo said, turning his head to hide the tremor in his voice, waving his arm to catch the attention of two healers rushing toward them.

"Is this... is this hurting ya', Donnie?'' Raph said quietly, reaching for the dagger. "Let me... let me get it out...''

"DON'T!'' One of the healers screamed as they approached. "Don't touch it! If the blade has pierced an artery he could bleed out in seconds.''

Raph jerked his hand away, fear in his eyes at what he might have just done. The healer knelt beside Don, carefully ripping open his tunic and examining his wound closely, before looking up into Raph's terrified eyes.

"I think this might not be as bad as it looks, my lord.'' She said. "It appears as if he may have moved just as the dagger pierced his side and the blade was pushed forward toward his plastron. If we are lucky it will not have cut through any vital organs... will you allow us to care for him?''

Mikey realized the woman had to ask that last question because Raph was still leaned forward over Don, practically covering him with his body as he stared desperately at the healer. After a second Raph blinked and nodded unsteadily, leaning away but keeping a tight grip on Don's hand.

The healers gathered close, working quickly, cleaning Don's side of the sticky mud and then pressing their hands together to cover the place where the dagger protruded from his side as well as the area of his plastron directly above it. They began to chant a quiet song that sounded more like a prayer and Mikey saw a pale-yellow light begin to softly glow through their fingers.

Don's eyes were squeezed shut, his teeth bared. He whimpered and stiffened as the healer's finished their chant and let out an exhausted cry before going perfectly still.

For one terrifying moment Mikey thought Donatello was gone. He looked down at his friend as if he were looking through a long tunnel, so numb he felt like he was floating. But just as tears threatened to fill his eyes, he caught the movement of Don's chest as it gently rose and fell with his steady breaths and Mikey let out a soft gasping laugh of relief.

The yellow shining glow faded, and the healer gently slid the dagger out of Don's body, quickly pressing a thick cloth to the wound, catching the small amount of blood that seeped out before it was covered.

They moved to lift Don onto a stretcher but Raph would have none of it, insisting on carrying his mate himself. The healer gave him a tight look but didn't argue, holding the cloth firmly against Don's side as they walked to a wagon waiting nearby.

Mikey stood on shaking legs, watching as they rolled away back toward the estate. He sighed when Leo leaned into him and wrapped his arms around his shoulders.

"He'll be alright.'' Leo repeated.

Nodding against his plastron, Mikey turned to look back at Hun's corpse, gasping as he finally noticed that the jagged purple lines that twisted around his forearms had disappeared, like they were never there to begin with.

~*~

Leonardo left him under the watchful eye of Lord Hamato while he accompanied his soldiers to help with the capture of Hun's men as well as the infiltration and cleanup of his camp. The lord invited him to share his carriage and before long they were trundling back across the meadow toward the estate.

Michelangelo fidgeted with his hands in his lap finding himself suddenly and unexpectedly alone with the clan leader. They were halfway back to the village when Lord Hamato finally broke the uncomfortable silence.

"Thank you for your assistance today.'' He said. "I do not want you to think it was a wasted effort. Even though Hun has been slain, we will still learn much from this priest that you brought into our custody. His methods for completing the bonds that Hun was benefiting from have long been a mystery to us and my priests will be eager to question him.''

Mikey nodded, not quite comfortable enough to meet his eyes. "I was happy to help, my lord.''

"I trust you are not under the impression that life on the estate is always this exciting.'' The lord added. "I assure you the days here are usually quite dull.''

"I... I wasn't...'' Mikey stuttered.

"My son speaks very highly of you. He does not give praise easily... and he does not open himself to others easily either.'' Lord Hamato said pointedly. "Leonardo has always been cautious and guarded with his heart. What he needs is someone who can bring him out of his shell... so to speak.''

Finally relaxing a little, Mikey couldn't help but grin at the implied joke. "I think highly of him too... my lord.''

"I believe you.'' The lord said, continuing after a thoughtful pause. "I wish to confess... I have been rather selfish. My reasons for bringing together a group of young people from which my son could choose a mate were purely political. The council has been expressing their displeasure that Leonardo is not yet bonded, and I felt that a push in that direction was required as he seemed to have no interest in... well...''

Lord Hamato turned to gaze out the window, "I allowed myself to be blinded by the optics of life as a clan leader and failed to notice that my sons are now grown and should be free to make their own decisions.'' He sighed and turned back to look Mikey in the eye. "The truth is, I am a stubborn old man that forgot how joyous love should be. I never truly meant to put anyone in such an awkward position, least of all you, and I would be humbled if you would accept my apology.''

Lord Hamato waited, smiling softly with his hands folded in his lap while Mikey stared at him wide eyed, unsure of what to say. This day didn't seem like it was real anymore. Was the lord of the Hamato Clan truly asking forgiveness from him, a peasant? How was he supposed to respond to that?

Knowing he probably looked ridiculous with his mouth opening and closing like a fish, he swallowed and took a breath. "You have nothing to apologize for, my lord. Coming here has been the best thing that's ever happened to me. My life before was... empty... but now I have a reason to wake up in the morning. I have a home where I feel welcome and I have people I care about... falling in love with Leo has changed my life... and it never would have happened if you hadn't...''

His voice trailed off as he noticed the hope in Lord Hamato's eyes.

"You are in love with him?'' The lord asked with quiet wonder.

Mikey blinked, hearing his own words playing back in his head. Saying those three words to Leo had been one thing, a special secret that only the two of them shared. But, saying them to Lord Hamato made everything real in a permanent, binding way and he felt his cheeks flush with heat.

"I am.'' He answered, a calm certainty coming over him as he faced the lord and smiled.

Lord Hamato returned the smile, relief and joy shining in his eyes. He nodded his acceptance and said nothing more, turning to look out the small carriage window again.

Mikey almost couldn't believe it. Gaining Raphael's acceptance had felt liberating, like he imagined a warrior must feel after a battle. But this was different. This was warm and comfortable, like a parent expressing approval to a beloved child. And Lord Hamato had just given it, with no demands or expectations.

He accepted Mikey's statement of love because, apparently, that was all he needed to hear. It was a refreshingly simple gesture.

He leaned back against his seat, observing the lord from the corner of his eye, astonished and thankful and feeling like, no matter what life threw at him next, he would be ready, because everything had finally fallen into place.

~*~

Arriving back at the estate, work quickly began helping the villagers gather their belongings so they could return to their homes. Mikey spent an hour darting around packing supplies and securing bags and boxes onto carts. He would have worked until the last villager left the courtyard, but Lord Hamato eventually dragged him away, insisting that he bathe and change and eat something.

The sun was setting by the time he returned to the main hall. The healers had finally caught up with him and now there were half a dozen stitches in his arm, wrapped under a tight bandage. He was numb with exhaustion, but he lit up to see Leonardo was there and speaking to his father.

Leo reached for him as he stepped close, needing to feel Mikey's warmth against his side as he continued to brief Lord Hamato.

He explained that much of what was Hun's had been absorbed into the Hamato army directly including his equipment and animals, the rest was used to build a pyre that they had thrown Hun's body onto and lit aflame, mostly without ceremony.

Mikey felt like he might doze on his feet so long as Leo was holding him up. He let his gaze sweep across the room as he tried to listen, his mate's soothing voice little more than a low hum in his ears.

Servants and soldiers were cataloguing and sorting items from Hun's camp, turning the chaotic mess into something orderly. When his attention was drawn to the sunken area in the middle of the room it took him a full minute before he recognized the group nestled into the cushions.

There they were, being fawned over by healers and servants offering bowls of broth. The newly freed bond prisoners sat huddled together, their faces open and awestruck, like they had just woken from a long nightmare, the terrible ugly lines on their arms nowhere to be seen.

He caught a flash of bright green, the elder sister sitting up and looking him straight in the face. He had been wearing a hood when they spoke in the tent, it seemed like ages ago now, but he was sure she recognized him anyway. She smiled and mouthed a genuine thank you before turning back to her sister sleeping beside her.

Tears filled his eyes, grateful for her gratitude even though he knew he hadn't really done anything to earn it.

You gave them hope... A little voice whispered in his head and he supposed that was true.

Saying a sleepy goodnight to Lord Hamato, Leo wrapped an arm tightly around his shoulders and led him from the room. Stars were appearing in the darkened sky, twinkling innocently like nothing at all strange had happened that day.

Leo kissed his head as they entered the garden between the row houses. "Let's check in on Don before we turn in for the night.''

Perking up a little, Mikey nodded, eager to see how his friend was doing. They knocked, leaning against each other as they waited for Raph to open the door. The second son looked just as exhausted as they were, but the fear was gone from his eyes.

"How is he?'' Leo asked.

"Sleepin''' Raph mumbled. "The healers said he'll be ok so long as he rests. He's lucky the dagger didn't do any permanent damage...''

Leo must have heard something in his brother's voice because he quickly spoke over him, "Don't blame yourself for this Raph. Donnie made his choice. He knew what the dangers were.''

Raph sighed, shaking his head. "I didn't protect him...''

Leo gave him an exasperated look, "You know what Donnie would say if he was awake to hear you say that don't you?''

Raph huffed, knowing the answer even if he didn't want to admit it. "That he doesn't need to be protected...''

Leo smiled and after a moment Raph smiled back.

"You need to get some rest too, Raph.'' Mikey quietly chimed in. "Don't stay up all night watching him sleep.''

"No promises.'' Raph said around a smirk as he closed the door.

They turned and started walking back across the garden toward the other house. They were only halfway there when suddenly Mikey was struck by a thought. It was something that had been nagging at the back of his mind since the day before and in a blink, it solidified into a fully formed idea.

He pulled up short, causing Leo to look back at him in confusion. "Mikey? What is it?''

"I want to teach music to the children.'' Mikey said breathlessly.

"Music? What do you mean?'' Leo asked, confused.

A rush of excited energy made him bounce a little on his feet. "I want to have a purpose here. I need to be useful and helpful. Everyone here has something that they do, something they're good at. I don't want to just be your mate, or whatever I am. I... I want the clan to accept me because I have value... because I... I want to try...''

He grunted with frustration trying to find the words to explain what he was thinking. Yesterday, in the courtyard, playing his songs for the children, seeing their smiles and hearing their laughter... it had felt right. Like something was showing him the path he was meant to take. He wanted every child in the village to feel the joy that music could bring because that was the one shining force that had kept him grounded as he struggled through every day. No matter how bad things were, he always had his guitar and a song to sing, so he always had a little bit of happiness. He wanted to show the children that they could create their own happiness, even when there was nothing to be happy about.

His head was buzzing with so much excitement over the idea that he didn't notice how Leo's shoulders had sagged until he stepped forward to cup Mikey's cheek with his hand, looking at him with a serious expression.

"Mikey, you don't need to prove anything to anyone here. There's no obligation for you to work or... to perform for...'' He sighed, a darkness shadowing his eyes, "You're free to go now, if that's what you want.''

Mikey shook his head, confused. "What?''

"You were brought here on my father's order because of his misguided beliefs and traditions.'' Leo said with a troubled frown, "If your choices during the last few days have been influenced by a belief that you are expected to stay because of our position over you then...''

"Leo, stop.'' Mikey spoke, placing a finger over his lips to silence him. This wasn't what he had expected to hear, but right away he could see what Leo was doing.

Leonardo, always selfless, always cautious, always guarded. Donatello and Lord Hamato both had warned him. Leo was hiding behind his own barriers, protecting himself in case Mikey revealed that his choice to stay had been because of fear or some other ulterior motive. He was bracing himself for the pain of Mikey walking away.

It was a defense mechanism, and that was something Mikey understood all too well.

"And I thought I was skittish.'' Mikey chuckled, but to his surprise Leo flinched and he was forced to tightly grip his mate's forearms as the eldest son started to pull away. "Leo, look at me. If I wanted to leave, I would already be gone. I've spent every day of my life running, avoiding my problems and worries and fears. But... you make me brave. You are the reason that I'm not scared anymore. I told you last night that I'm not going anywhere, and I meant it.''

Leo closed his eyes with a shudder, clenching his fists at his side. When he finally spoke again, his voice was a whisper, "I was afraid...''

Mikey pressed in close, running his fingers along Leo's shoulder in a gentle caress. "Afraid of what?''

"That you wouldn't come back.'' Leo answered, opening his eyes. "That you would be hurt, or killed, or maybe that you would just leave. I don't know what I would have done... if you didn't...''

Mikey surged forward, claiming Leo's mouth, pouring every ounce of his want and need, his determination and dedication and all of his love into a kiss that left them both breathless, clinging and panting and whimpering in an effort to convey what they felt now that the words were failing them. Foreheads pressed together, they breathed each other's air, trembling with the force of the emotion threatening to overwhelm them.

Mikey released a shaky breath, "I love you.''

"I love you.'' Leo answered without hesitation, "From the moment I laid eyes on you, I felt my soul calling to you. Please, tell me you feel it too.''

"I feel it.'' Mikey whispered. Now that he knew what it was, he realized he had felt it all along. From the first day, sitting on that bench under the cherry trees, his song drifting through the air around them. It was what had filled the empty space inside him as he looked into Leonardo's eyes for the first time, this feeling of contentment and peace and overwhelming joy.

It was the only thing he would ever need for the rest of his life.

He reached up and wrapped his arms around Leo's neck, pressing another kiss to his lips before pulling back and looking deeply into the hazel eyes he had come to love so, so much.

"Take me to bed.'' He said, low and pleading.

In that instant all the doubt and fear between them was quelled, replaced with an all-encompassing trust and love that had them swaying against each other under the power of it.

With a hungry smile, Leonardo picked him up, wrapping his legs around his waist, kissing him as they entered the house they now shared, both of them knowing there was not one thing in the entire world that could have stopped him from complying with that quiet, heated request.

~*~*~*~

tbc...
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