{ "submission_id": "1586333", "keywords": [ { "keyword_id": "9419", "keyword_name": "anal penetration", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "34151" }, { "keyword_id": "2071", "keyword_name": "anal sex", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "36744" }, { "keyword_id": "287", "keyword_name": "cock", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "129528" }, { "keyword_id": "14852", "keyword_name": "concern", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "125" }, { "keyword_id": "5352", "keyword_name": "desire", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "393" }, { "keyword_id": "4541", "keyword_name": "donatello", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "3572" }, { "keyword_id": "236", "keyword_name": "gay", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "152929" }, { "keyword_id": "12340", "keyword_name": "jealousy", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "415" }, { "keyword_id": "7037", "keyword_name": "jerking off", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "3652" }, { "keyword_id": "78", "keyword_name": "kissing", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "23590" }, { "keyword_id": "208823", "keyword_name": "leo/don", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "67" }, { "keyword_id": "26978", "keyword_name": "leonardo", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "4197" }, { "keyword_id": "194404", "keyword_name": "leonardo/donatello", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "84" }, { "keyword_id": "5244", "keyword_name": "males", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "44126" }, { "keyword_id": "3607", "keyword_name": "michelangelo", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "2954" }, { "keyword_id": "942", "keyword_name": "m/m", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "51480" }, { "keyword_id": "16233", "keyword_name": "raphael", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "4639" }, { "keyword_id": "2115", "keyword_name": "riding", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "9231" }, { "keyword_id": "12613", "keyword_name": "shower sex", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "1094" }, { "keyword_id": "23646", "keyword_name": "splinter", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "1008" }, { "keyword_id": "81015", "keyword_name": "tcest", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "2335" }, { "keyword_id": "18653", "keyword_name": "teenage mutant ninja turtles", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "5845" }, { "keyword_id": "3979", "keyword_name": "tension", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "129" }, { "keyword_id": "3606", "keyword_name": "tmnt", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "9311" }, { "keyword_id": "129671", "keyword_name": "tmnt 2003", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "1022" }, { "keyword_id": "232199", "keyword_name": "tmnt2k3", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "202" }, { "keyword_id": "3618", "keyword_name": "turtlecest", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "2559" }, { "keyword_id": "14477", "keyword_name": "turtles", "contributed": "f", "submissions_count": "4253" } ], "hidden": "f", "scraps": "f", "favorite": "f", "favorites_count": "28", "create_datetime": "2018-04-16 00:17:52.836472+00", "create_datetime_usertime": "16 Apr 2018 02:17 CEST", "last_file_update_datetime": "2018-04-16 00:11:03.861558+00", "last_file_update_datetime_usertime": "16 Apr 2018 02:11 CEST", "username": "hummerhouse", "user_id": "54734", "user_icon_file_name": "19508_hummerhouse_raphael.gif", "user_icon_url_large": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/usericons/large/19/19508_hummerhouse_raphael.gif", "user_icon_url_medium": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/usericons/medium/19/19508_hummerhouse_raphael.gif", "user_icon_url_small": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/usericons/small/19/19508_hummerhouse_raphael.gif", "file_name": "2255694_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_23.doc", "file_url_full": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/files/full/2255/2255694_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_23.doc", "file_url_screen": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/files/screen/2255/2255694_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_23.doc", "file_url_preview": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/files/preview/2255/2255694_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_23.doc", "thumbnail_url_huge": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/huge/2255/2255694_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_23.jpg", "thumbnail_url_large": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/large/2255/2255694_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_23.jpg", "thumbnail_url_medium": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/medium/2255/2255694_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_23.jpg", "thumb_huge_x": "300", "thumb_huge_y": "221", "thumb_large_x": "200", "thumb_large_y": "147", "thumb_medium_x": "120", "thumb_medium_y": "88", "files": [ { "file_id": "2255694", "file_name": "2255694_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_23.doc", "file_url_full": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/files/full/2255/2255694_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_23.doc", "file_url_screen": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/files/screen/2255/2255694_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_23.doc", "file_url_preview": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/files/preview/2255/2255694_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_23.doc", "mimetype": "application/msword", "submission_id": "1586333", "user_id": "54734", "submission_file_order": "0", "full_size_x": null, "full_size_y": null, "screen_size_x": null, "screen_size_y": null, "preview_size_x": null, "preview_size_y": null, "initial_file_md5": "3c12d93a4b1b7b0952aa35a5f2937865", "full_file_md5": "3c12d93a4b1b7b0952aa35a5f2937865", "large_file_md5": "", "small_file_md5": "", "thumbnail_md5": "4c4a399b22d46eecb120734a4c8f7867", "deleted": "f", "create_datetime": "2018-04-16 00:11:03.861558+00", "create_datetime_usertime": "16 Apr 2018 02:11 CEST", "thumbnail_url_huge": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/huge/2255/2255694_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_23.jpg", "thumbnail_url_large": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/large/2255/2255694_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_23.jpg", "thumbnail_url_medium": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/medium/2255/2255694_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_23.jpg", "thumb_huge_x": "300", "thumb_huge_y": "221", "thumb_large_x": "200", "thumb_large_y": "147", "thumb_medium_x": "120", "thumb_medium_y": "88" } ], "pools": [ { "pool_id": "41144", "name": "Beck and Call", "description": "Donatello is known as the 'go-to Turtle', the guy who can fix all sorts of things. His role in the family takes an unexpected turn when his brothers decide to expand on his job description.", "count": "24", "submission_left_submission_id": "1542556", "submission_left_file_name": "2187652_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_22.doc", "submission_left_thumbnail_url_huge": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/huge/2187/2187652_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_22.jpg", "submission_left_thumbnail_url_large": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/large/2187/2187652_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_22.jpg", "submission_left_thumbnail_url_medium": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/medium/2187/2187652_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_22.jpg", "submission_left_thumb_huge_x": "300", "submission_left_thumb_huge_y": "208", "submission_left_thumb_large_x": "200", "submission_left_thumb_large_y": "139", "submission_left_thumb_medium_x": "120", "submission_left_thumb_medium_y": "83", "submission_right_submission_id": "1616854", "submission_right_file_name": "2304271_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_24.doc", "submission_right_thumbnail_url_huge": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/huge/2304/2304271_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_24.jpg", "submission_right_thumbnail_url_large": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/large/2304/2304271_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_24.jpg", "submission_right_thumbnail_url_medium": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/medium/2304/2304271_hummerhouse_beck_and_call_part_24.jpg", "submission_right_thumb_huge_x": "300", "submission_right_thumb_huge_y": "200", "submission_right_thumb_large_x": "200", "submission_right_thumb_large_y": "133", "submission_right_thumb_medium_x": "120", "submission_right_thumb_medium_y": "80" } ], "description": "Disclaimer: The TMNT are not mine. No money being made.\nWord Count part 23: 6,475 multi-chapter 2k3\nSummary: Donatello is known as the 'go-to Turtle', the guy who can fix all sorts of things. His role in the family takes an unexpected turn when his brothers decide to expand on his job description.\nRatings per chapter vary - R to NC-17\n~~This amazing preview image of part 22 was created by the incomparable @Sherenelle\n \n!!~~Winner in the Universal TMNT Fanfiction Competition 2016: (Erotica Ballot) Sexiest Donatello 1st Place; Most Turtle-Tastic T-Cest 1st Place \n", "description_bbcode_parsed": "Disclaimer: The TMNT are not mine. No money being made.
Word Count part 23: 6,475 multi-chapter 2k3
Summary: Donatello is known as the 'go-to Turtle', the guy who can fix all sorts of things.  His role in the family takes an unexpected turn when his brothers decide to expand on his job description.
Ratings per chapter vary - R to NC-17
~~This amazing preview image of part 22 was created by the incomparable @Sherenelle
 
!!~~Winner in the Universal TMNT Fanfiction Competition 2016: (Erotica Ballot) Sexiest Donatello 1st Place; Most Turtle-Tastic T-Cest 1st Place  
", "writing": "\tA caretaker's instinct woke Donatello a few hours after he'd fallen asleep. His first thought was to check on Raph and he was relieved to see that his brother was still sleeping soundly.\n\n\tSilently leaving the infirmary, Don glanced towards the television array and found it dark. He then climbed the stairs, noting that Mikey's bedroom door was open. A glance inside proved that his youngest brother's room was empty, so Don proceeded on to Leo's room.\n\n\tListening at the door, Don heard the slight sound of Mikey talking in his sleep, something he was prone to do. He didn't hear Leo, but that wasn't unusual. Awake or asleep, Leo tended to be very quiet.\n\n\tDon would have liked to peek into the room to verify that Leo wasn't lying awake, but he knew that wasn't a great idea. If he was asleep, Don's movement would wake him. If he was awake, he might perceive Don's intrusion as a lack of faith in his ability to fight his own possessive tendencies.\n\n\tThe fact was that time was the only thing that could restore balance and total trust between the brothers. Each of them acknowledging their weaknesses and promising to work on them wasn't always the same as overcoming those flaws of character.\n\n\tMorning would tell him how the night had gone. Don returned to the infirmary and to his cot with that thought in mind.\n\n\tHe next woke to a muttered curse and sat up quickly. The clock over the door told him it was just after seven.\n\n\t``Are you all right?'' Don asked.\n\n\t``Yeah,'' Raph said, sounding grumpy. ``I'm just stiff from being in one position all night. Help me out to the couch, would ya'? I need to sit upright for a while.''\n\n\tAs Don guided Raph across the lair, he heard the familiar sounds of Leo and Master Splinter working together in the dojo. He felt a sense of relief at that; at least they weren't so at odds that they'd allowed that to break up their usual routine.\n\n\tA very vocal yawn drew Don's eyes upwards and he saw Mikey coming out of Leo's room. He was anxious to talk to his brother and find out how the night had gone, but getting Raph settled was his first priority.\n\n\tOnce he had Raph in a comfortable spot on the couch and had given him the remote, Don said, ``I'm going to clean your wound and then cover it with new bandages. I'll be right back.''\n\n\t``Could ya' bring me something to drink too? My mouth is dry as the Sahara,'' Raph said.\n\n\tDon patted his shoulder lovingly and then went back to the infirmary for supplies. As he was coming out he encountered Mikey.\n\n\t``Could you get Raph a drink?'' Don asked. ``I need to take care of his sutures.''\n\n\t``Sure,'' Mikey said. ``Is Leo in the dojo?''\n\n\t``He is,'' Don answered. ``Master Splinter's in there too.''\n\n\tMikey held up one hand to show Don that his fingers were crossed. Words weren't necessary; they both knew what Mikey meant.\n\n\tReturning to the couch, Don removed Raph's sling and then made certain his arm was braced atop a stack of cushions. After taking the old bandages off, he gently cleansed the wound and stiches with mild soap and warm water, making certain to avoid overly wetting the area.\n\n\tAfter that was done, Don applied an antibiotic ointment to the wound and then wrapped Raph's arm with new bandages. While Don had been ministering to Raph, Mikey had brought him a large glass of orange juice and then gone back to the kitchen to make omelets.\n\n\tBefore Raph could finish his drink, Don displayed the two pills lying in the palm of his hand.\n\n\t``What's that?'' Raph asked suspiciously.\n\n\t``It's to ease the pain and contains an anti-inflammatory,'' Don said. ``This is not negotiable.''\n\n\t``Is that your way of saying it's medically necessary and I should shut the hell up?'' Raph asked, not without a touch of humor.\n\n\t``That's exactly what I'm saying,'' Don told him. ``We can leave the sling off if you promise to pretend you're still wearing it and not move your arm. At all.''\n\n\t``Yes sir,'' Raph said. ``Whatever you say doc.''\n\n\tHe accepted the pills and dutifully swallowed them. It was the least amount of fuss that Raph had ever displayed after being injured and Don wondered if that was in part due to their new relationship.\n\n\t``I'm going to check on your breakfast,'' Don said. ``Do you want a refill on orange juice or something else?''\n\n\t``If you're making coffee I'll take a cup,'' Raph said.\n\n\tDon frowned. ``Stimulants are probably not the best thing right now.''\n\n\t``Then make it half coffee, half milk,'' Raph said. ``I ain't giving up all my vices just `cause my arm got sliced open.''\n\n\tIf Don was going to ask his brothers to make compromises, then he had to learn to make them as well. ``Deal. Anything else?''\n\n\tRaph hesitated for a minute but the expectant look on Don's face made him speak. ``I'm gonna have to make a bathroom run after I eat. Ya' gonna let me take care of business without supervision?''\n\n\tDon chuckled. ``Yes, I think that would be appropriate, but the sling goes on so you don't forget to keep the arm stabilized.''\n\n\t``I only need one hand to hold toilet paper Donny,'' Raph said.\n\n\tStill laughing, Don left him and went to the kitchen. Mikey was at the stove, humming to himself, as Don set about making coffee.\n\n\tSince he might not get another chance to catch Mikey by himself, Don asked, ``How did it go last night?''\n\n\tMikey stopped humming and replied, ``Not bad. Not great, but better than I expected.''\n\n\tFrowning, Don asked, ``How so?''\n\n\t``Keeping Leo distracted wasn't so easy,'' Mikey said. ``He kept looking towards the infirmary and I could almost see how much he wanted to go in there.''\n\n\tDon took down two cups. ``How did you keep him away?''\n\n\t``I reminded him that Raph was too hurt to fuck you so he needed to stop worrying about that,'' Mikey stated bluntly. ``You gotta go straight to the point if you want Leo to pay attention.''\n\n\t``And?'' Don asked.\n\n\t``I got his attention,'' Mikey said, shrugging. He sprinkled cheese across the top of Raph's omelet. ``He tried to act like that wasn't what he was thinking about, but I told him to get over himself.''\n\n\t``You don't believe in easing into it, do you?'' Don shook his head as he walked over to the refrigerator to retrieve the milk.\n\n\t``Hey, I got him to talk and that's what counts,'' Mikey said. ``I asked him to extol your virtues, as he saw them, for my benefit.''\n\n\t``'Extol my virtues?''' Don asked incredulously. ``Where did that come from?''\n\n\tMikey grinned. ``I watch television. Anyway, that worked better than trying to get him to think about something else. We found common ground by talking about the things we love about you. I think it helped Leo to understand that I wasn't trying to take something from him. That's what I wanted most; to show him that he's not the only one who can feel that deeply about you.''\n\n\t``You didn't do that all night,'' Don said. ``I checked on you guys and it sounded like you were sleeping.''\n\n\t``Well yeah,'' Mikey said. ``I got him up to bed and started telling him about the storyline in the newest Silver Sentry comics. Next thing you know, he was out.''\n\n\tDon filled cups for himself and Raph. ``What should I do about tonight?''\n\n\t``Stay with Leo,'' Mikey said, plating Raph's omelet. ``I'll babysit Raph. It's not a one-way street dude. Raph has to learn you aren't at his beck and call all of the time either.''\n\n\tThey started out of the kitchen but before they reached the doorway, Don stopped his brother. ``Have I ever told you how much I appreciate you, Mikey? I mean, really appreciate the things you do for us. All joking aside.''\n\n\t``No sweat,'' Mikey said, waving the compliment away. ``Family does things for each other no matter what.''\n\n\tThey were halfway to the couch when Leo came out of the dojo. His and Don's eyes met and Leo offered his brother a small smile.\n\n\t``I'm making omelets Leo,'' Mikey called out to him. ``Want one?''\n\n\t``Sounds good,'' Leo replied. ``Could you manage one for Master Splinter? I'm taking tea in to him and I'll come back to help with the food.''\n\n\t``Sure thing,'' Mikey said as Leo proceeded on to the kitchen. In a lowered voice, Mikey told Don, ``That's a good sign at least.''\n\n\tIt was clear that Don wasn't the only one worried about the relationship between Leo and Master Splinter. Mikey did tend to not only notice when any of them were at odds with the other, but to also take steps to remedy the situation.\n\n\tAfter delivering the omelet with a flourish to Raph, Mikey headed back to the kitchen. Don placed Raph's cup within his brother's reach and sat next to him with his own omelet, accepting the remote when Raph passed it over to him.\n\n\tThey enjoyed a quiet half-hour together and then Don helped Raph upstairs to the bathroom, leaving him to his own devices but staying within earshot. While he waited for his brother, Don watched the lower level, seeing Leo come out of Master Splinter's room after a very short period of time inside with him.\n\n\tAs if by some invisible radar that was honed in on Don, Leo glanced upwards to where his brother was standing. After depositing his plate and cup in the kitchen, Leo bounded up the stairs and immediately pulled Don into his arms.\n\n\t``Waiting on Raph?'' Leo asked, keeping his voice low.\n\n\t``He called it `extending his leash' as he closed the door in my face,'' Don said with a chuckle.\n\n\t``Will I sound overly possessive if I admit that I missed you last night?'' Leo asked.\n\n\tDon shook his head. ``No, just possessive enough. Mikey said the two of you talked.''\n\n\t``It helped,'' Leo admitted. ``I didn't think hearing how much one of them cared for you . . . cared for you the way that I do . . . would lessen my jealousy but I think it did. While we talked I realized that Mikey loves me too.''\n\n\t``They both do,'' Don said. ``Enough to never want to intentionally hurt you. That isn't why they became intimate with me.''\n\n\t``I know that,'' Leo said. ``In my heart of hearts I knew that even when I accused Raph of wanting you just to get back at me.''\n\n\t``The things that you two say to each other when you're angry,'' Don said, clicking his tongue against the roof of his mouth disapprovingly. ``Only two brothers who knew each other really well could manage to get under each other's skin that much.''\n\n\t``What's the plan for tonight?'' Leo asked, leaning in to kiss the side of Don's mouth.\n\n\t``Mikey has already agreed to stay with Raph,'' Don said, his lips tingling. ``Could I have a proper kiss before Raph comes out?''\n\n\t``Happy to oblige.'' Leo pressed his mouth to Don's and immediately deepened their kiss. Don drank in his brother's taste, reminiscent of green tea and cheese omelet and distinctly Leonardo.\n\n\tThe sound of the bathroom door handle being turned separated the pair. Raph stepped out to find two sets of eyes looking in his direction.\n\n\t``Damn, bathroom reception committee,'' Raph said. ``I'd let ya' inspect my leavings, but I already flushed.''\n\n\t``Gross, Raphael,'' Leo said, making a face at his brother.\n\n\t``Arm,'' Don said, moving forward to inspect the bandage.\n\n\tRaph rolled his eyes. ``I was careful, mom.''\n\n\tAs they descended the stairs together, Master Splinter stepped out of his room and watched them start across the lair. ``Donatello, perhaps you could spare some time this morning to practice your ninjitsu.''\n\n\tDonatello understood that to mean now. ``Of course, Master Splinter.''\n\n\tHe left Leonardo to help get Raph settled. He had qualms about leaving them alone together, but he'd done so the day before and nothing had gone awry. Then he saw Mikey coming out of the kitchen and when his little brother tipped a wink at him, Don knew everything would be all right.\n\n\tPushing all thoughts of his brothers from his mind, Don focused on his katas and forms, moving purposefully through each routine his sensei assigned him. At the end of their session, Master Splinter nodded approvingly.\n\n\t``Your mind is not distracted today,'' Master Splinter said, directing Donatello to kneel before him. ``The stress that has so often been with you of late is absent and has taken the stiffness out of your movements. Does this mean you are nearing a resolution to the difficulties that have plagued your relationship with your brothers?''\n\n\t``The only concern I have now involves the residual tension between them,'' Don said. He decided to be completely straightforward. ``I'm also worried about the relationship between you and Leo, and also you with Raph.''\n\n\tMaster Splinter sighed. ``I am working to repair what I have done to Leonardo. Overcoming the damage between us, the damage that is entirely my fault, will require time. For both of us it will be a learning experience. My own Master Yoshi was an excellent example of how someone could love another and still develop into a strong, capable leader. I must follow his example when training your brother.''\n\n\t``And Raph?'' Don asked. ``He has lingering resentments. I know that you can feel that.''\n\n\t``I do not need to feel it,'' Master Splinter said. ``Raphael makes it very clear whenever I am near him. The knowledge that I am responsible in many ways for the frustrations and bitterness that have plagued him all these years causes me great sorrow. My belief that what I was doing was for the greater good does not excuse the pain that I have caused him.''\n\n\tMaster Splinter closed his eyes for a moment and Don could see that Raph wasn't the only one suffering from inner pain. Don said nothing though, seeing that his father was about to speak again.\n\n\t``Through the years I have preached ceaselessly to you four that you should stick together no matter what. In fact, I am the one who is responsible for the most damage to your bond,'' Master Splinter said. ``Words do not carry the same power as actions. I should not have told you all one thing, and then pulled Leonardo aside to teach him something else entirely.''\n\n\t``Have you said as much to Leo?'' Don asked. ``He's the one who needs to hear the mea culpa.''\n\n\tDon realized that he was behaving less like a pupil and more like a peer, being bold and a little harsh in his speech. Somehow it seemed as though that was what Master Splinter wanted from him.\n\n\t``I have . . . broached the subject,'' Master Splinter said. ``Leonardo is quick to tell me that he understands and harbors no ill will. He has trained himself to hide his feelings and does so quite well, but I am his father. Even an expressionless face gives away some secrets.''\n\n\t``Don't stop trying,'' Don said. ``Say what you need to say even if he tries to sidestep the issue. You know Raph will insist on a full explanation, but Leo will worry that he isn't showing you proper respect if he asks for an account of your rationale. He won't want to hear you say that you were wrong, but I think he has to. It's the only way for that feeling of loss to fade.''\n\n\tMaster Splinter laid his hand on Don's shoulder. ``You are very wise, my son.''\n\n\tDon shook his head. ``I can't take all the credit. Mikey is the one who's broadened my insights.''\n\n\t``I must not forget Michelangelo in all of this,'' Master Splinter said. ``Too often I dismiss the concept that he might require guidance because he seems so emotionally balanced. It would be wrong of me to assume that I have not caused some damage to him as well.''\n\n\t``Talking to him has helped me,'' Don said. ``You might find that a conversation with him will give you a better awareness of how to help both Leo and Raph.''\n\n\tMaster Splinter indicated that Don should stand. As Don got to his feet, his father said, ``Donatello, you have an amazing intellect, but that is not your greatest strength. Your most powerful gift is how much you care, not just for your brothers, but for all living things. Your heart, your gentle spirit, it transcends even the power of your mind. It calms your brothers and draws them to you.''\n\n\t``They are everything,'' Don said simply. ``I can spend hours, days even, distracted by learning and by projects, but in the end it's all about family. Without them, I'm nothing.''\n\n\t``You are never `nothing', Donatello. But I will agree that family is everything,'' Master Splinter said. ``Now, could you ask Michelangelo to join me? He has spent quite enough time on video games exercising his thumbs and mouth, he needs a good workout.''\n\n\t``Yes Sensei,'' Don said, bowing to his father before leaving the dojo.\n\n\tEntering the living area, Don found Mikey sitting on the floor with a comic book and got his attention. ``Your turn.''\n\n\tMikey jumped up. ``For once I'm glad for practice. These two are watching a boring war documentary. I need my own TV.''\n\n\t``You'd never leave your room,'' Raph said. ``On second thought, maybe we should get him a TV.''\n\n\t``Har-de-har-har,'' Mikey responded before walking away.\n\n\tFor a moment after he'd gone, Don stood in indecision, mentally reviewing his to-do list while looking at his two remaining brothers. Leo was sprawled comfortably in a chair, his eyes on the television, and Raph sat in his spot on the couch keeping his arm immobile.\n\n\tHe was pretty sure that Raph wouldn't initiate a conversation on any of the matters most sensitive to them. He'd already told Don he didn't want to be in a weakened state when discussing that with Leo.\n\n\tFor his part, Leo didn't appear inclined to disturb the peace by broaching subjects that might agitate his injured brother.\n\n\tDon finally decided he couldn't stand watch over them. They had to learn to be together if they were ever going to recover the easy camaraderie they once had.\n\n\tNormally, Don did not announce what he was going to do or where he'd be. He decided that following that lifelong pattern, that being himself, was what his family needed most. \n\n\tTurning, Don made his way across the lair and to the kitchen for a cup of coffee. After that he went to his lab and started to work.\n\n\tAs usual, Don lost track of time. A knock on the door brought his head up and he turned off the small sander he was using when he saw Mikey standing there.\n\n\t``When's the last time you ate something, bro'?'' Mikey asked.\n\n\tDon blinked as he pulled his mind off of his project. ``Omelet. What time is it?''\n\n\tHe would have had to set his tools down and lean back to see a clock. Mikey grinned at that, amused as always at his brother's reluctance to stop working.\n\n\t``Nearly five,'' Mikey said. ``Want some fruit or something? I'm starting dinner in a short while.''\n\n\t``Not hungry,'' Don said. ``I can wait.'' A thought struck him. ``Leo and Raph?''\n\n\t``Doing just fine,'' Mikey said. ``They're just hanging out together. Not really talking, but when Leo gets up for something, Raph wants to know when he'll be back. Leo doesn't seem to want to go far from him either.''\n\n\t``I'd say that was a positive step,'' Don said hesitantly. ``Wouldn't you?''\n\n\tMikey shrugged. ``I'd give it a wait and see. It's kinda like they're feeling each other out. That either means they're looking for common ground again, or they're studying each other for weaknesses. It could go either way.''\n\n\tFrowning, Don said, ``I got the impression they didn't want to fight anymore.''\n\n\t``They're always gonna fight, Donny. That's the nature of the beast. What we want is for them to stop being so brutal to each other,'' Mikey said. ``That'll only happen when they really start talking and getting stuff off their chests.''\n\n\t``Which, according to Raph, won't happen until he's no longer laid up,'' Don said.\n\n\t``Yeah, can't be looking weak in front of Leo,'' Mikey said with perfect understanding. ``Catch you later. Try and get to a stopping place when it gets close to dinner. I'd hate to ruin something by having to drag you out of here.''\n\n\tHe started to leave and a thought struck Don. ``Oh Mikey, wait,'' Don called out, drawing his brother back again. ``About tonight. I told Leo you were going to stay with Raph. Leo and I will probably be in his room if you need me, but could you . . . .''\n\n\t``Knock first?'' Mikey said, smiling widely. ``Don't worry dude, we won't need you.''\n\n\tAfter he left, Don found he couldn't return to concentrating on the project he'd begun. Knowing that Mikey was occupied in the kitchen and couldn't respond if a problem arose drew Don back to his family obligations. He worked on his task long enough to complete a segment and then set everything aside so he could join his brothers in front of the television.\n\n\tWhen Mikey announced that dinner was ready, Raph insisted on taking his meal at the table. He allowed Don to place his arm back into the sling and then the entire family sat down to eat together.\n\n\tThroughout the meal Mikey kept up a lively conversation, expertly drawing each of them in to his discussions. However, it did not escape Don's attention that Raph kept glancing quizzically in his direction. Don was certain that Raph wondered what the sleeping arrangements were going to be for the night. Though Leo and Mikey knew, no one had informed Raphael.\n\n\tMaster Splinter was the first to rise from the table, bidding his sons a goodnight. Don watched him leave, concerned that he had spent time during the day with everyone but Raphael. Perhaps their father sensed that his most volatile son wasn't ready for him yet. It was better to think that than to worry that their father was avoiding one of his children.\n\n\t``I'm gonna walk around,'' Raph announced abruptly. ``Before anyone starts bitching, it's been a couple of days and I feel fine. Since I ain't gonna walk on my hands, my arm is safe.''\n\n\tThinking fast, Don said, ``If you want to stretch your legs, we could walk through the tunnels.''\n\n\t``We?'' Raph asked, narrowing his eyes.\n\n\t``We,'' Don repeated. ``Unless you want to walk up and down in the lair.''\n\n\t``You don't need Leo for that,'' Mikey said quickly. ``He's gonna help me clean up.''\n\n\tRaph pushed his chair back and got up, with Don following suit. There was no protest from Leo as the two of them walked out of the lair.\n\n\tNeither of them said anything as they trudged along. After several minutes, Raph broke the silence.\n\n\t``I get the feeling ya' got something to tell me,'' Raph said. ``It's about tonight, isn't it?''\n\n\t``Yes,'' Don said, seeing no reason to beat around the bush. ``Mikey's going to stay with you in the infirmary.''\n\n\t``I don't need a babysitter,'' Raph said, his tone gruff. ``Ya' need some alone time with Leo. No big deal.''\n\n\tDon glanced at him, noting how tight his lips were. If he was going to get Raph to really tell him what he was feeling, Don would have to shock it out of him.\n\n\t``I think if you can spend time between my legs you can at least tell me the truth when we're alone,'' Don said.\n\n\tHe saw Raph's nostrils flare and waited for the outburst. Instead, Raph started laughing.\n\n\t``Okay, ya' win,'' Raph said, still snorting with amusement. ``I'm being selfish thinking that I should have your undivided attention while I'm hurt. At least at bedtime.''\n\n\t``We're not in a situation where that will work,'' Don said. ``It's not only that it wouldn't be a fair division of my time, but it's hard on me too. I love all three of you and I love what we do together, but I'm not going to bed hop every single night. There are projects that require my attention and sometimes that means I'm up for hours after the three of you have hit the sack.''\n\n\t``So what's Mikey then?'' Raph asked. ``A distraction?''\n\n\t``No, I like to think of it as a way for us to recapture something of what we've lost,'' Don said. ``Remember how we all slept together in the same space in our old lair? I've often missed the comfort of having you guys nearby.''\n\n\t``We were kids,'' Raph said.\n\n\t``We were close,'' Don countered. ``Don't you see? We've drawn away from each other too much since choosing to sleep separately. Leo became even more distant, Mikey surrounds himself with clutter as a replacement for us, and I work all night to avoid an empty room.''\n\n\tRaph appeared thoughtful. ``Yeah, and I go topside to wear myself out so I don't gotta lay awake in my hammock. I don't remember that being a problem when we were growing up.''\n\n\t``The intimacy we share is important,'' Don said. ``But there's more to intimacy than sex. Your injury will heal; it's just physical. Repairing our bond, the one we've lost, requires effort. It means that some nights you sleep with me, some nights with Mikey or Leo, and some nights alone.''\n\n\t``With Leo,'' Raph said, kicking a can out of his way. ``Don't stick me with him too soon, okay?''\n\n\t``I know,'' Don said. ``Wait until you're not quite so immobile. It would be nice if the two of you reached a point where you're both willing to be vulnerable around the other.''\n\n\t``Him first,'' Raph said.\n\n\t``Wasn't that what he was doing when he held your hand and talked until you fell asleep?'' Don asked.\n\n\t``I'd do the same for him,'' Raph said. ``I have done the same for him.''\n\n\t``When the Shredder nearly killed him,'' Don said, nodding. ``Do you remember how that felt? How we all thought the worst would happen?''\n\n\t``I remember,'' Raph said, coming to a stop. There was a faraway look in his eyes. ``Worst day of my life seeing him lying there, all battered and busted up. And after too, when he was out and around but his spirit was broken. I helped him get it back. It was just the two of us, in the barn, doing what needed to be done. Closest I'd felt to him in years.''\n\n\t``That's what we're going to find again,'' Don said firmly. ``There's nothing standing in the way of you two recovering the connection you once had. No one is going to be telling Leo to shield his emotions or to distance himself. You guys need more than just me, you need each other as well. Mikey included.''\n\n\t``Then I guess I'll manage to live through a night with the motor mouth,'' Raph said, his attitude more positive than it had been when they started their walk. ``Seems only fair ya' shake the bed with Leo again since me and Mikey are ahead in the count. Let's go back home.''\n\n\t``Do me a favor,'' Don said as they started back towards the lair. ``Don't start keeping a sex score. I'm not sure I could handle that sort of competition.''\n\n\t``Why not?'' Raph asked in a teasing tone. ``We could draw up a chart since ya' love those, and write down what we do with ya' to see which of us is the most creative . . . .''\n\n\t``Shut up,'' Don said, interrupting good-naturedly. ``If you mention something like that in Mikey's hearing, he'll start surfing the internet for ideas.''\n\n\tRaph continued to tease him and was laughing when they entered the lair. They found Leo and Mikey involved in a game of Chinese checkers and sat down to watch them. When that game ended, all four of them played several times, enjoying themselves immensely.\n\n\tIt wasn't long before Raph was yawning. Don did a quick check of his bandage and then asked if he was ready for bed.\n\n\tRaph glanced at Leo and then away before his brother noticed. ``Yeah, I'm kinda tired. Cot time?''\n\n\t``For a few more nights,'' Don said. Even though Raph had asked him the same thing earlier, Don knew he was hoping for a last minute reprieve.\n\n\t``I'll tuck you in Raphie,'' Mikey offered. ``I wanna tell you about this dream I had last night.''\n\n\t``Call me Raphie again and I'll be tucking [i]you [/i]in after I knock ya' out,'' Raph growled as they moved to the infirmary.\n\n\t``I hope Mikey doesn't get him too aggravated,'' Don said, concern in his eyes as he watched the pair disappear.\n\n\t``Mikey knows how far to push and when to stop,'' Leo said. He stood up and held his hand out to Don.\n\n\tTaking his hand, Don allowed himself to be pulled to his feet. ``Well, there was that one time . . . .''\n\n\t``Raph learned from that one time as well,'' Leo said. ``If it would make you feel better, we could wait to go to bed until we know they're asleep.''\n\n\tDon glanced into his brother's eyes. It was easy to see that Leo wanted to be alone with him, but it was also clear that he would not push his own personal agenda.\n\n\tSqueezing Leo's hand, Don gave him a quick kiss. ``I don't see any reason to stay up and babysit those two when they're quite old enough to take care of themselves.''\n\n\tHand in hand they dashed up the staircase and into Leo's bedroom. No sooner was the door closed and locked behind them that Don found himself encased in Leo's arms. Don's mouth was immediately covered by Leo's, the kiss a searing promise of things to come.\n\n\tLeo's tongue against his own sent a wave of heat through Don's system. It pooled deep inside Don's gut before seeping into his groin and lighting a fire that had him pushing his hips forward.\n\n\tThe movement separated their mouths. ``Allow me to pleasure you Donny,'' Leo said, his voice hoarse with need.\n\n\tDon smiled. It was always Leo's way to ask first, to honor him by giving him a choice. Rather than verbally responding, Don began to remove his gear. Keeping his eyes fixed on his brother, Leo followed suit. \n\nBefore Don took off his belt, he dug out a tube of lubricant, which he displayed for Leo's benefit before setting it down next to his brother's bed.\n\n\tBy the time they'd both stripped their mouths were once again actively engaged. Leo moved backwards to the bed, pulling Don along with him. When they reached it, an impish impulse struck Don and he shoved against Leo's shoulders, pushing him onto the bed.\n\n\tLeo sat up as Don crawled onto his lap. Curving his arms around Leo's neck, Don kissed him hungrily, churring as Leo's hands grasped and squeezed his buttocks.\n\n\tRising onto his knees, Don whispered, ``Scoot back and lean against the wall.''\n\n\tDoing as asked, Leo slid out from under Don and pressed his carapace against the wall. As soon as he was settled, Don straddled him again. He could feel the bulge of Leo's burgeoning erection and leaned forward, presenting his neck to his brother.\n\n\tLeo's cock dropped down as soon as he bit into the side of Don's neck. Reaching out, Don snatched up the lubricant, his own cock sliding into the open.\n\n\t``I'm going to ride you,'' Don said. ``I want to look into your eyes as we make love.''\n\n\tCurling his hand over Don's, Leo pried the lubricant from his brother's fingers. ``Then allow me to prep you. I need to see every expression, to read every nuance of emotion. I want to know you Donny, on the deepest possible level.''\n\n\tDon churred again, his lips meeting Leo's. His brother was both gentle and efficient as he prepared Don. By the time he was fully stretched, Don was breathing heavily and thoroughly aroused.\n\n\tThey remained face to face as Don bounced up and down on Leo's thick shaft. Leo's hand was wrapped around Don's penis, jerking him off as Don rode him. It wasn't long before both reached their peaks, nearly in unison.\n\n\tWith a contented sigh, Don shared another deep kiss with his brother and then slipped off of Leo to lie beside him. Leo slid down from the wall, turning onto his side so that he and Don were facing each other.\n\n\tThe pair fell asleep in a tangle of arms and legs, both fully sated and vastly satisfied.\n\n\tLeo woke early, as was his habit. Snuggled in his arms, Don felt the change and drifted slowly back to consciousness.\n\n\t``Tell me you aren't going to get up just yet,'' Don said in a low voice, refusing to open his eyes.\n\n\t``I'd hoped not to wake you,'' Leo replied, kissing the top of Don's head.\n\n\t``New rule,'' Don said, nuzzling Leo's shoulder. ``Neither of us gets up while the other is still asleep.''\n\n\tLeo's low chuckle vibrated Don's cheek. ``Sounds nice but not very practical. Suppose I wanted to surprise you with breakfast in bed?''\n\n\t``Were you?'' Don asked.\n\n\t``I didn't mean this morning,'' Leo said. ``Actually I thought I'd lie here and watch you sleep. It's such a rare occurrence.''\n\n\tDon lifted his head and saw the smirk on his brother's face. ``Oh, so we wake up in a playful mood, do we?''\n\n\t``I could show you how playful once we're in the shower,'' Leo said, his manner suggestive.\n\n\t``By all means, show me,'' Don said as an excited buzz ran through his body.\n\n\tNeither rushed through their shower time, enjoying the spray of warm water and each other. When they left the bathroom, Don had a large hickey on one bicep and a gratifying soreness in his nether regions.\n\n\tThe pair were surprised to find both their brothers in the kitchen. Raph sat at the table yawning and nursing a large glass of milk, while Mikey flipped pancakes at the stove.\n\n\tDon immediately dropped into a chair alongside Raph. ``Did you sleep?''\n\n\tBlinking blearily at him, Raph said, ``I slept fine. Woke up `cause my damn arm started itching.''\n\n\t``No, he hasn't been scratching,'' Mikey said before Don could ask the question. ``His moving around woke me and I got up with him. Oh hey Leo, there's tea. Master Splinter made it earlier. I wasn't sure when you guys would start moving around, so I didn't make coffee, Donny.''\n\n\t``That's okay, I'll make a pot,'' Don said, leaving his chair.\n\n\t``Ya' got some kind of cream or something I can put on this so it'll stop itching?'' Raph asked.\n\n\t``I've got something that will help,'' Don said. ``Itching is a good sign, it means you're healing.''\n\n\tRaph snorted. ``Didn't doubt that. Getting injured never bothers me as much as the healing up afterwards does.''\n\n\t``It's not like you're known for your patience,'' Mikey said, sliding pancakes onto a plate.\n\n\t``Speaking of which, where's my food?'' Raph asked.\n\n\tMikey set the plate in front of him. ``Right here. Give me a second to grab the syrup.''\n\n\tAll four brothers sat together at the table to eat breakfast. It was a concession on Leo's part; he usually spent the morning in training. Seeing him making such an effort to connect to his siblings told Don how much Leo wanted things to change for the better.\n\n\tFor his part, Raph seemed to be holding himself slightly aloof. His temper was often a mask to cover deeper feelings and it was clear he still had trust issues. It didn't help that Master Splinter had not spent any solo time with him since Raph had been injured.\n\n\tDon wasn't sure why their father was avoiding being alone with Raph, other than he simply was unsure of what to say to him. The rift between Master Splinter and Leo wasn't healed and that relationship was a bone of contention for Raph.\n\n\tMaybe Master Splinter felt he needed something definitive to offer Raphael. Talk without action was a pet peeve of his hot blooded brother's.\n\n\tThe day progressed along almost normal routines. Master Splinter gathered his sons together for meditation, urging them to let their minds become pools of stillness. Raph sat on the floor between Leo and Mikey, his eyes closed as he followed his sensei's directions. \n\nThough Don was supposed to be working on his own meditation, he couldn't help but glance at his brothers. Raph was clearly too tense to meditate. He remained still though, no doubt glad to have something to do other than sit on the couch.\n\nLate in the day Raph began to pace. Inactivity was getting the better of him, but Don was out of ideas on how to placate him. That was always one of the biggest downsides to Raph's being confined to the lair, especially when it was due to an injury.\n\n``Donny, where's my shell cell?'' Raph finally asked. ``I wanna call Casey. I ain't talked to him since we got into that fight and chased him out of the lair.''\n\n``I'll get it,'' Don said, setting aside the carburetor he was cleaning and getting up.\n\nDon grabbed the phone off the charger in his lab and brought it out to Raph. Then he sat down on the floor in front of the coffee table again and went back to work.\n\nRaph stopped behind the couch as he waited for Casey to answer. Leo and Mikey were in the open pit area sparring against each other.\n\n``Yo Casey! How's it hanging?'' Raph said into the phone.\n\nThere was a moment of silence as Raph listened, then he said, ``Nah, it's just us having our monthly difference of opinion. It's all cool now. Anything going on?''\n\nDon grimaced slightly. Though they couldn't maintain radio silence with the outside world forever, he hoped Casey wouldn't say anything to get Raphael riled up.\n\nThis time the silence dragged on long enough for Don to glance in his brother's direction. If anyone ever wanted to see a turtle doing an impression of a pressure cooker about to blow its top, they had only to look at Raphael.\n\n``They're doing what?'' Raph shouted.\n\nAll of Don's hopes for a peaceful evening were immediately dashed.\n\nTBC.......\n\n", "writing_bbcode_parsed": "\tA caretaker's instinct woke Donatello a few hours after he'd fallen asleep.  His first thought was to check on Raph and he was relieved to see that his brother was still sleeping soundly.

\tSilently leaving the infirmary, Don glanced towards the television array and found it dark.  He then climbed the stairs, noting that Mikey's bedroom door was open.  A glance inside proved that his youngest brother's room was empty, so Don proceeded on to Leo's room.

\tListening at the door, Don heard the slight sound of Mikey talking in his sleep, something he was prone to do.  He didn't hear Leo, but that wasn't unusual.  Awake or asleep, Leo tended to be very quiet.

\tDon would have liked to peek into the room to verify that Leo wasn't lying awake, but he knew that wasn't a great idea.  If he was asleep, Don's movement would wake him.  If he was awake, he might perceive Don's intrusion as a lack of faith in his ability to fight his own possessive tendencies.

\tThe fact was that time was the only thing that could restore balance and total trust between the brothers.  Each of them acknowledging their weaknesses and promising to work on them wasn't always the same as overcoming those flaws of character.

\tMorning would tell him how the night had gone.  Don returned to the infirmary and to his cot with that thought in mind.

\tHe next woke to a muttered curse and sat up quickly.  The clock over the door told him it was just after seven.

\t``Are you all right?'' Don asked.

\t``Yeah,'' Raph said, sounding grumpy.  ``I'm just stiff from being in one position all night.  Help me out to the couch, would ya'?  I need to sit upright for a while.''

\tAs Don guided Raph across the lair, he heard the familiar sounds of Leo and Master Splinter working together in the dojo.  He felt a sense of relief at that; at least they weren't so at odds that they'd allowed that to break up their usual routine.

\tA very vocal yawn drew Don's eyes upwards and he saw Mikey coming out of Leo's room.  He was anxious to talk to his brother and find out how the night had gone, but getting Raph settled was his first priority.

\tOnce he had Raph in a comfortable spot on the couch and had given him the remote, Don said, ``I'm going to clean your wound and then cover it with new bandages.  I'll be right back.''

\t``Could ya' bring me something to drink too?  My mouth is dry as the Sahara,'' Raph said.

\tDon patted his shoulder lovingly and then went back to the infirmary for supplies.  As he was coming out he encountered Mikey.

\t``Could you get Raph a drink?'' Don asked.  ``I need to take care of his sutures.''

\t``Sure,'' Mikey said.  ``Is Leo in the dojo?''

\t``He is,'' Don answered.  ``Master Splinter's in there too.''

\tMikey held up one hand to show Don that his fingers were crossed.  Words weren't necessary; they both knew what Mikey meant.

\tReturning to the couch, Don removed Raph's sling and then made certain his arm was braced atop a stack of cushions.  After taking the old bandages off, he gently cleansed the wound and stiches with mild soap and warm water, making certain to avoid overly wetting the area.

\tAfter that was done, Don applied an antibiotic ointment to the wound and then wrapped Raph's arm with new bandages.  While Don had been ministering to Raph, Mikey had brought him a large glass of orange juice and then gone back to the kitchen to make omelets.

\tBefore Raph could finish his drink, Don displayed the two pills lying in the palm of his hand.

\t``What's that?'' Raph asked suspiciously.

\t``It's to ease the pain and contains an anti-inflammatory,'' Don said.  ``This is not negotiable.''

\t``Is that your way of saying it's medically necessary and I should shut the hell up?'' Raph asked, not without a touch of humor.

\t``That's exactly what I'm saying,'' Don told him.  ``We can leave the sling off if you promise to pretend you're still wearing it and not move your arm.  At all.''

\t``Yes sir,'' Raph said.  ``Whatever you say doc.''

\tHe accepted the pills and dutifully swallowed them.  It was the least amount of fuss that Raph had ever displayed after being injured and Don wondered if that was in part due to their new relationship.

\t``I'm going to check on your breakfast,'' Don said.  ``Do you want a refill on orange juice or something else?''

\t``If you're making coffee I'll take a cup,'' Raph said.

\tDon frowned.  ``Stimulants are probably not the best thing right now.''

\t``Then make it half coffee, half milk,'' Raph said.  ``I ain't giving up all my vices just `cause my arm got sliced open.''

\tIf Don was going to ask his brothers to make compromises, then he had to learn to make them as well.  ``Deal.  Anything else?''

\tRaph hesitated for a minute but the expectant look on Don's face made him speak.  ``I'm gonna have to make a bathroom run after I eat.  Ya' gonna let me take care of business without supervision?''

\tDon chuckled.  ``Yes, I think that would be appropriate, but the sling goes on so you don't forget to keep the arm stabilized.''

\t``I only need one hand to hold toilet paper Donny,'' Raph said.

\tStill laughing, Don left him and went to the kitchen.  Mikey was at the stove, humming to himself, as Don set about making coffee.

\tSince he might not get another chance to catch Mikey by himself, Don asked, ``How did it go last night?''

\tMikey stopped humming and replied, ``Not bad.  Not great, but better than I expected.''

\tFrowning, Don asked, ``How so?''

\t``Keeping Leo distracted wasn't so easy,'' Mikey said.  ``He kept looking towards the infirmary and I could almost see how much he wanted to go in there.''

\tDon took down two cups.  ``How did you keep him away?''

\t``I reminded him that Raph was too hurt to fuck you so he needed to stop worrying about that,'' Mikey stated bluntly.  ``You gotta go straight to the point if you want Leo to pay attention.''

\t``And?'' Don asked.

\t``I got his attention,'' Mikey said, shrugging.  He sprinkled cheese across the top of Raph's omelet.  ``He tried to act like that wasn't what he was thinking about, but I told him to get over himself.''

\t``You don't believe in easing into it, do you?''  Don shook his head as he walked over to the refrigerator to retrieve the milk.

\t``Hey, I got him to talk and that's what counts,'' Mikey said.  ``I asked him to extol your virtues, as he saw them, for my benefit.''

\t``'Extol my virtues?''' Don asked incredulously.  ``Where did that come from?''

\tMikey grinned.  ``I watch television.  Anyway, that worked better than trying to get him to think about something else.  We found common ground by talking about the things we love about you.  I think it helped Leo to understand that I wasn't trying to take something from him.  That's what I wanted most; to show him that he's not the only one who can feel that deeply about you.''

\t``You didn't do that all night,'' Don said.  ``I checked on you guys and it sounded like you were sleeping.''

\t``Well yeah,'' Mikey said.  ``I got him up to bed and started telling him about the storyline in the newest Silver Sentry comics.  Next thing you know, he was out.''

\tDon filled cups for himself and Raph.  ``What should I do about tonight?''

\t``Stay with Leo,'' Mikey said, plating Raph's omelet.  ``I'll babysit Raph.  It's not a one-way street dude.  Raph has to learn you aren't at his beck and call all of the time either.''

\tThey started out of the kitchen but before they reached the doorway, Don stopped his brother.  ``Have I ever told you how much I appreciate you, Mikey?  I mean, really appreciate the things you do for us.  All joking aside.''

\t``No sweat,'' Mikey said, waving the compliment away.  ``Family does things for each other no matter what.''

\tThey were halfway to the couch when Leo came out of the dojo.  His and Don's eyes met and Leo offered his brother a small smile.

\t``I'm making omelets Leo,'' Mikey called out to him.  ``Want one?''

\t``Sounds good,'' Leo replied.  ``Could you manage one for Master Splinter?  I'm taking tea in to him and I'll come back to help with the food.''

\t``Sure thing,'' Mikey said as Leo proceeded on to the kitchen.  In a lowered voice, Mikey told Don, ``That's a good sign at least.''

\tIt was clear that Don wasn't the only one worried about the relationship between Leo and Master Splinter.  Mikey did tend to not only notice when any of them were at odds with the other, but to also take steps to remedy the situation.

\tAfter delivering the omelet with a flourish to Raph, Mikey headed back to the kitchen.  Don placed Raph's cup within his brother's reach and sat next to him with his own omelet, accepting the remote when Raph passed it over to him.

\tThey enjoyed a quiet half-hour together and then Don helped Raph upstairs to the bathroom, leaving him to his own devices but staying within earshot.  While he waited for his brother, Don watched the lower level, seeing Leo come out of Master Splinter's room after a very short period of time inside with him.

\tAs if by some invisible radar that was honed in on Don, Leo glanced upwards to where his brother was standing.  After depositing his plate and cup in the kitchen, Leo bounded up the stairs and immediately pulled Don into his arms.

\t``Waiting on Raph?'' Leo asked, keeping his voice low.

\t``He called it `extending his leash' as he closed the door in my face,'' Don said with a chuckle.

\t``Will I sound overly possessive if I admit that I missed you last night?'' Leo asked.

\tDon shook his head.  ``No, just possessive enough.  Mikey said the two of you talked.''

\t``It helped,'' Leo admitted.  ``I didn't think hearing how much one of them cared for you . . . cared for you the way that I do . . . would lessen my jealousy but I think it did.  While we talked I realized that Mikey loves me too.''

\t``They both do,'' Don said.  ``Enough to never want to intentionally hurt you.  That isn't why they became intimate with me.''

\t``I know that,'' Leo said.  ``In my heart of hearts I knew that even when I accused Raph of wanting you just to get back at me.''

\t``The things that you two say to each other when you're angry,'' Don said, clicking his tongue against the roof of his mouth disapprovingly.  ``Only two brothers who knew each other really well could manage to get under each other's skin that much.''

\t``What's the plan for tonight?'' Leo asked, leaning in to kiss the side of Don's mouth.

\t``Mikey has already agreed to stay with Raph,'' Don said, his lips tingling.  ``Could I have a proper kiss before Raph comes out?''

\t``Happy to oblige.''  Leo pressed his mouth to Don's and immediately deepened their kiss.  Don drank in his brother's taste, reminiscent of green tea and cheese omelet and distinctly Leonardo.

\tThe sound of the bathroom door handle being turned separated the pair.  Raph stepped out to find two sets of eyes looking in his direction.

\t``Damn, bathroom reception committee,'' Raph said.  ``I'd let ya' inspect my leavings, but I already flushed.''

\t``Gross, Raphael,'' Leo said, making a face at his brother.

\t``Arm,'' Don said, moving forward to inspect the bandage.

\tRaph rolled his eyes.  ``I was careful, mom.''

\tAs they descended the stairs together, Master Splinter stepped out of his room and watched them start across the lair.  ``Donatello, perhaps you could spare some time this morning to practice your ninjitsu.''

\tDonatello understood that to mean now.  ``Of course, Master Splinter.''

\tHe left Leonardo to help get Raph settled.  He had qualms about leaving them alone together, but he'd done so the day before and nothing had gone awry.  Then he saw Mikey coming out of the kitchen and when his little brother tipped a wink at him, Don knew everything would be all right.

\tPushing all thoughts of his brothers from his mind, Don focused on his katas and forms, moving purposefully through each routine his sensei assigned him.  At the end of their session, Master Splinter nodded approvingly.

\t``Your mind is not distracted today,'' Master Splinter said, directing Donatello to kneel before him.  ``The stress that has so often been with you of late is absent and has taken the stiffness out of your movements.  Does this mean you are nearing a resolution to the difficulties that have plagued your relationship with your brothers?''

\t``The only concern I have now involves the residual tension between them,'' Don said.  He decided to be completely straightforward.  ``I'm also worried about the relationship between you and Leo, and also you with Raph.''

\tMaster Splinter sighed.  ``I am working to repair what I have done to Leonardo.  Overcoming the damage between us, the damage that is entirely my fault, will require time.  For both of us it will be a learning experience.  My own Master Yoshi was an excellent example of how someone could love another and still develop into a strong, capable leader.  I must follow his example when training your brother.''

\t``And Raph?'' Don asked.  ``He has lingering resentments.  I know that you can feel that.''

\t``I do not need to feel it,'' Master Splinter said.  ``Raphael makes it very clear whenever I am near him.  The knowledge that I am responsible in many ways for the frustrations and bitterness that have plagued him all these years causes me great sorrow.  My belief that what I was doing was for the greater good does not excuse the pain that I have caused him.''

\tMaster Splinter closed his eyes for a moment and Don could see that Raph wasn't the only one suffering from inner pain.  Don said nothing though, seeing that his father was about to speak again.

\t``Through the years I have preached ceaselessly to you four that you should stick together no matter what.  In fact, I am the one who is responsible for the most damage to your bond,'' Master Splinter said.  ``Words do not carry the same power as actions.  I should not have told you all one thing, and then pulled Leonardo aside to teach him something else entirely.''

\t``Have you said as much to Leo?'' Don asked.  ``He's the one who needs to hear the mea culpa.''

\tDon realized that he was behaving less like a pupil and more like a peer, being bold and a little harsh in his speech.  Somehow it seemed as though that was what Master Splinter wanted from him.

\t``I have . . . broached the subject,'' Master Splinter said.  ``Leonardo is quick to tell me that he understands and harbors no ill will.  He has trained himself to hide his feelings and does so quite well, but I am his father.  Even an expressionless face gives away some secrets.''

\t``Don't stop trying,'' Don said.  ``Say what you need to say even if he tries to sidestep the issue.  You know Raph will insist on a full explanation, but Leo will worry that he isn't showing you proper respect if he asks for an account of your rationale.  He won't want to hear you say that you were wrong, but I think he has to.  It's the only way for that feeling of loss to fade.''

\tMaster Splinter laid his hand on Don's shoulder.  ``You are very wise, my son.''

\tDon shook his head.  ``I can't take all the credit.  Mikey is the one who's broadened my insights.''

\t``I must not forget Michelangelo in all of this,'' Master Splinter said.  ``Too often I dismiss the concept that he might require guidance because he seems so emotionally balanced.  It would be wrong of me to assume that I have not caused some damage to him as well.''

\t``Talking to him has helped me,'' Don said.  ``You might find that a conversation with him will give you a better awareness of how to help both Leo and Raph.''

\tMaster Splinter indicated that Don should stand.  As Don got to his feet, his father said, ``Donatello, you have an amazing intellect, but that is not your greatest strength.  Your most powerful gift is how much you care, not just for your brothers, but for all living things.  Your heart, your gentle spirit, it transcends even the power of your mind.  It calms your brothers and draws them to you.''

\t``They are everything,'' Don said simply.  ``I can spend hours, days even, distracted by learning and by projects, but in the end it's all about family.  Without them, I'm nothing.''

\t``You are never `nothing', Donatello.  But I will agree that family is everything,'' Master Splinter said.  ``Now, could you ask Michelangelo to join me?  He has spent quite enough time on video games exercising his thumbs and mouth, he needs a good workout.''

\t``Yes Sensei,'' Don said, bowing to his father before leaving the dojo.

\tEntering the living area, Don found Mikey sitting on the floor with a comic book and got his attention.  ``Your turn.''

\tMikey jumped up.  ``For once I'm glad for practice.  These two are watching a boring war documentary.  I need my own TV.''

\t``You'd never leave your room,'' Raph said.  ``On second thought, maybe we should get him a TV.''

\t``Har-de-har-har,'' Mikey responded before walking away.

\tFor a moment after he'd gone, Don stood in indecision, mentally reviewing his to-do list while looking at his two remaining brothers.  Leo was sprawled comfortably in a chair, his eyes on the television, and Raph sat in his spot on the couch keeping his arm immobile.

\tHe was pretty sure that Raph wouldn't initiate a conversation on any of the matters most sensitive to them.  He'd already told Don he didn't want to be in a weakened state when discussing that with Leo.

\tFor his part, Leo didn't appear inclined to disturb the peace by broaching subjects that might agitate his injured brother.

\tDon finally decided he couldn't stand watch over them.  They had to learn to be together if they were ever going to recover the easy camaraderie they once had.

\tNormally, Don did not announce what he was going to do or where he'd be.  He decided that following that lifelong pattern, that being himself, was what his family needed most.  

\tTurning, Don made his way across the lair and to the kitchen for a cup of coffee.  After that he went to his lab and started to work.

\tAs usual, Don lost track of time.  A knock on the door brought his head up and he turned off the small sander he was using when he saw Mikey standing there.

\t``When's the last time you ate something, bro'?'' Mikey asked.

\tDon blinked as he pulled his mind off of his project.  ``Omelet.  What time is it?''

\tHe would have had to set his tools down and lean back to see a clock.  Mikey grinned at that, amused as always at his brother's reluctance to stop working.

\t``Nearly five,'' Mikey said.  ``Want some fruit or something?  I'm starting dinner in a short while.''

\t``Not hungry,'' Don said.  ``I can wait.''  A thought struck him.  ``Leo and Raph?''

\t``Doing just fine,'' Mikey said.  ``They're just hanging out together.  Not really talking, but when Leo gets up for something, Raph wants to know when he'll be back.  Leo doesn't seem to want to go far from him either.''

\t``I'd say that was a positive step,'' Don said hesitantly.  ``Wouldn't you?''

\tMikey shrugged.  ``I'd give it a wait and see.  It's kinda like they're feeling each other out.  That either means they're looking for common ground again, or they're studying each other for weaknesses.  It could go either way.''

\tFrowning, Don said, ``I got the impression they didn't want to fight anymore.''

\t``They're always gonna fight, Donny.  That's the nature of the beast.  What we want is for them to stop being so brutal to each other,'' Mikey said.  ``That'll only happen when they really start talking and getting stuff off their chests.''

\t``Which, according to Raph, won't happen until he's no longer laid up,'' Don said.

\t``Yeah, can't be looking weak in front of Leo,'' Mikey said with perfect understanding.  ``Catch you later.  Try and get to a stopping place when it gets close to dinner.  I'd hate to ruin something by having to drag you out of here.''

\tHe started to leave and a thought struck Don.  ``Oh Mikey, wait,'' Don called out, drawing his brother back again.  ``About tonight.  I told Leo you were going to stay with Raph.  Leo and I will probably be in his room if you need me, but could you . . . .''

\t``Knock first?'' Mikey said, smiling widely.  ``Don't worry dude, we won't need you.''

\tAfter he left, Don found he couldn't return to concentrating on the project he'd begun.  Knowing that Mikey was occupied in the kitchen and couldn't respond if a problem arose drew Don back to his family obligations.  He worked on his task long enough to complete a segment and then set everything aside so he could join his brothers in front of the television.

\tWhen Mikey announced that dinner was ready, Raph insisted on taking his meal at the table.  He allowed Don to place his arm back into the sling and then the entire family sat down to eat together.

\tThroughout the meal Mikey kept up a lively conversation, expertly drawing each of them in to his discussions.  However, it did not escape Don's attention that Raph kept glancing quizzically in his direction.  Don was certain that Raph wondered what the sleeping arrangements were going to be for the night.  Though Leo and Mikey knew, no one had informed Raphael.

\tMaster Splinter was the first to rise from the table, bidding his sons a goodnight.  Don watched him leave, concerned that he had spent time during the day with everyone but Raphael.  Perhaps their father sensed that his most volatile son wasn't ready for him yet.  It was better to think that than to worry that their father was avoiding one of his children.

\t``I'm gonna walk around,'' Raph announced abruptly.  ``Before anyone starts bitching, it's been a couple of days and I feel fine.  Since I ain't gonna walk on my hands, my arm is safe.''

\tThinking fast, Don said, ``If you want to stretch your legs, we could walk through the tunnels.''

\t``We?'' Raph asked, narrowing his eyes.

\t``We,'' Don repeated.  ``Unless you want to walk up and down in the lair.''

\t``You don't need Leo for that,'' Mikey said quickly.  ``He's gonna help me clean up.''

\tRaph pushed his chair back and got up, with Don following suit.  There was no protest from Leo as the two of them walked out of the lair.

\tNeither of them said anything as they trudged along.  After several minutes, Raph broke the silence.

\t``I get the feeling ya' got something to tell me,'' Raph said.  ``It's about tonight, isn't it?''

\t``Yes,'' Don said, seeing no reason to beat around the bush.  ``Mikey's going to stay with you in the infirmary.''

\t``I don't need a babysitter,'' Raph said, his tone gruff.  ``Ya' need some alone time with Leo.  No big deal.''

\tDon glanced at him, noting how tight his lips were.  If he was going to get Raph to really tell him what he was feeling, Don would have to shock it out of him.

\t``I think if you can spend time between my legs you can at least tell me the truth when we're alone,'' Don said.

\tHe saw Raph's nostrils flare and waited for the outburst.  Instead, Raph started laughing.

\t``Okay, ya' win,'' Raph said, still snorting with amusement.  ``I'm being selfish thinking that I should have your undivided attention while I'm hurt.  At least at bedtime.''

\t``We're not in a situation where that will work,'' Don said.  ``It's not only that it wouldn't be a fair division of my time, but it's hard on me too.  I love all three of you and I love what we do together, but I'm not going to bed hop every single night.  There are projects that require my attention and sometimes that means I'm up for hours after the three of you have hit the sack.''

\t``So what's Mikey then?'' Raph asked.  ``A distraction?''

\t``No, I like to think of it as a way for us to recapture something of what we've lost,'' Don said.  ``Remember how we all slept together in the same space in our old lair?  I've often missed the comfort of having you guys nearby.''

\t``We were kids,'' Raph said.

\t``We were close,'' Don countered.  ``Don't you see?  We've drawn away from each other too much since choosing to sleep separately.  Leo became even more distant, Mikey surrounds himself with clutter as a replacement for us, and I work all night to avoid an empty room.''

\tRaph appeared thoughtful.  ``Yeah, and I go topside to wear myself out so I don't gotta lay awake in my hammock.  I don't remember that being a problem when we were growing up.''

\t``The intimacy we share is important,'' Don said.  ``But there's more to intimacy than sex.  Your injury will heal; it's just physical.  Repairing our bond, the one we've lost, requires effort.  It means that some nights you sleep with me, some nights with Mikey or Leo, and some nights alone.''

\t``With Leo,'' Raph said, kicking a can out of his way.  ``Don't stick me with him too soon, okay?''

\t``I know,'' Don said.  ``Wait until you're not quite so immobile.  It would be nice if the two of you reached a point where you're both willing to be vulnerable around the other.''

\t``Him first,'' Raph said.

\t``Wasn't that what he was doing when he held your hand and talked until you fell asleep?'' Don asked.

\t``I'd do the same for him,'' Raph said.  ``I have done the same for him.''

\t``When the Shredder nearly killed him,'' Don said, nodding.  ``Do you remember how that felt?  How we all thought the worst would happen?''

\t``I remember,'' Raph said, coming to a stop.  There was a faraway look in his eyes.  ``Worst day of my life seeing him lying there, all battered and busted up.  And after too, when he was out and around but his spirit was broken.  I helped him get it back.  It was just the two of us, in the barn, doing what needed to be done.  Closest I'd felt to him in years.''

\t``That's what we're going to find again,'' Don said firmly.  ``There's nothing standing in the way of you two recovering the connection you once had.  No one is going to be telling Leo to shield his emotions or to distance himself.  You guys need more than just me, you need each other as well.  Mikey included.''

\t``Then I guess I'll manage to live through a night with the motor mouth,'' Raph said, his attitude more positive than it had been when they started their walk.  ``Seems only fair ya' shake the bed with Leo again since me and Mikey are ahead in the count.  Let's go back home.''

\t``Do me a favor,'' Don said as they started back towards the lair.  ``Don't start keeping a sex score.  I'm not sure I could handle that sort of competition.''

\t``Why not?'' Raph asked in a teasing tone.  ``We could draw up a chart since ya' love those, and write down what we do with ya' to see which of us is the most creative . . . .''

\t``Shut up,'' Don said, interrupting good-naturedly.  ``If you mention something like that in Mikey's hearing, he'll start surfing the internet for ideas.''

\tRaph continued to tease him and was laughing when they entered the lair.  They found Leo and Mikey involved in a game of Chinese checkers and sat down to watch them.  When that game ended, all four of them played several times, enjoying themselves immensely.

\tIt wasn't long before Raph was yawning.  Don did a quick check of his bandage and then asked if he was ready for bed.

\tRaph glanced at Leo and then away before his brother noticed.  ``Yeah, I'm kinda tired.  Cot time?''

\t``For a few more nights,'' Don said.  Even though Raph had asked him the same thing earlier, Don knew he was hoping for a last minute reprieve.

\t``I'll tuck you in Raphie,'' Mikey offered.  ``I wanna tell you about this dream I had last night.''

\t``Call me Raphie again and I'll be tucking you in after I knock ya' out,'' Raph growled as they moved to the infirmary.

\t``I hope Mikey doesn't get him too aggravated,'' Don said, concern in his eyes as he watched the pair disappear.

\t``Mikey knows how far to push and when to stop,'' Leo said.  He stood up and held his hand out to Don.

\tTaking his hand, Don allowed himself to be pulled to his feet.  ``Well, there was that one time . . . .''

\t``Raph learned from that one time as well,'' Leo said.  ``If it would make you feel better, we could wait to go to bed until we know they're asleep.''

\tDon glanced into his brother's eyes.  It was easy to see that Leo wanted to be alone with him, but it was also clear that he would not push his own personal agenda.

\tSqueezing Leo's hand, Don gave him a quick kiss.  ``I don't see any reason to stay up and babysit those two when they're quite old enough to take care of themselves.''

\tHand in hand they dashed up the staircase and into Leo's bedroom.  No sooner was the door closed and locked behind them that Don found himself encased in Leo's arms.  Don's mouth was immediately covered by Leo's, the kiss a searing promise of things to come.

\tLeo's tongue against his own sent a wave of heat through Don's system.  It pooled deep inside Don's gut before seeping into his groin and lighting a fire that had him pushing his hips forward.

\tThe movement separated their mouths.  ``Allow me to pleasure you Donny,'' Leo said, his voice hoarse with need.

\tDon smiled.  It was always Leo's way to ask first, to honor him by giving him a choice.  Rather than verbally responding, Don began to remove his gear.  Keeping his eyes fixed on his brother, Leo followed suit.

Before Don took off his belt, he dug out a tube of lubricant, which he displayed for Leo's benefit before setting it down next to his brother's bed.

\tBy the time they'd both stripped their mouths were once again actively engaged.  Leo moved backwards to the bed, pulling Don along with him.  When they reached it, an impish impulse struck Don and he shoved against Leo's shoulders, pushing him onto the bed.

\tLeo sat up as Don crawled onto his lap.  Curving his arms around Leo's neck, Don kissed him hungrily, churring as Leo's hands grasped and squeezed his buttocks.

\tRising onto his knees, Don whispered, ``Scoot back and lean against the wall.''

\tDoing as asked, Leo slid out from under Don and pressed his carapace against the wall.  As soon as he was settled, Don straddled him again.  He could feel the bulge of Leo's burgeoning erection and leaned forward, presenting his neck to his brother.

\tLeo's cock dropped down as soon as he bit into the side of Don's neck.  Reaching out, Don snatched up the lubricant, his own cock sliding into the open.

\t``I'm going to ride you,'' Don said.  ``I want to look into your eyes as we make love.''

\tCurling his hand over Don's, Leo pried the lubricant from his brother's fingers.  ``Then allow me to prep you.  I need to see every expression, to read every nuance of emotion.  I want to know you Donny, on the deepest possible level.''

\tDon churred again, his lips meeting Leo's.  His brother was both gentle and efficient as he prepared Don.  By the time he was fully stretched, Don was breathing heavily and thoroughly aroused.

\tThey remained face to face as Don bounced up and down on Leo's thick shaft.  Leo's hand was wrapped around Don's penis, jerking him off as Don rode him.  It wasn't long before both reached their peaks, nearly in unison.

\tWith a contented sigh, Don shared another deep kiss with his brother and then slipped off of Leo to lie beside him.  Leo slid down from the wall, turning onto his side so that he and Don were facing each other.

\tThe pair fell asleep in a tangle of arms and legs, both fully sated and vastly satisfied.

\tLeo woke early, as was his habit.  Snuggled in his arms, Don felt the change and drifted slowly back to consciousness.

\t``Tell me you aren't going to get up just yet,'' Don said in a low voice, refusing to open his eyes.

\t``I'd hoped not to wake you,'' Leo replied, kissing the top of Don's head.

\t``New rule,'' Don said, nuzzling Leo's shoulder.  ``Neither of us gets up while the other is still asleep.''

\tLeo's low chuckle vibrated Don's cheek.  ``Sounds nice but not very practical.  Suppose I wanted to surprise you with breakfast in bed?''

\t``Were you?'' Don asked.

\t``I didn't mean this morning,'' Leo said.  ``Actually I thought I'd lie here and watch you sleep.  It's such a rare occurrence.''

\tDon lifted his head and saw the smirk on his brother's face.  ``Oh, so we wake up in a playful mood, do we?''

\t``I could show you how playful once we're in the shower,'' Leo said, his manner suggestive.

\t``By all means, show me,'' Don said as an excited buzz ran through his body.

\tNeither rushed through their shower time, enjoying the spray of warm water and each other.  When they left the bathroom, Don had a large hickey on one bicep and a gratifying soreness in his nether regions.

\tThe pair were surprised to find both their brothers in the kitchen.  Raph sat at the table yawning and nursing a large glass of milk, while Mikey flipped pancakes at the stove.

\tDon immediately dropped into a chair alongside Raph.  ``Did you sleep?''

\tBlinking blearily at him, Raph said, ``I slept fine.  Woke up `cause my damn arm started itching.''

\t``No, he hasn't been scratching,'' Mikey said before Don could ask the question.  ``His moving around woke me and I got up with him.  Oh hey Leo, there's tea.  Master Splinter made it earlier.  I wasn't sure when you guys would start moving around, so I didn't make coffee, Donny.''

\t``That's okay, I'll make a pot,'' Don said, leaving his chair.

\t``Ya' got some kind of cream or something I can put on this so it'll stop itching?'' Raph asked.

\t``I've got something that will help,'' Don said.  ``Itching is a good sign, it means you're healing.''

\tRaph snorted.  ``Didn't doubt that.  Getting injured never bothers me as much as the healing up afterwards does.''

\t``It's not like you're known for your patience,'' Mikey said, sliding pancakes onto a plate.

\t``Speaking of which, where's my food?'' Raph asked.

\tMikey set the plate in front of him.  ``Right here.  Give me a second to grab the syrup.''

\tAll four brothers sat together at the table to eat breakfast.  It was a concession on Leo's part; he usually spent the morning in training.  Seeing him making such an effort to connect to his siblings told Don how much Leo wanted things to change for the better.

\tFor his part, Raph seemed to be holding himself slightly aloof.  His temper was often a mask to cover deeper feelings and it was clear he still had trust issues.  It didn't help that Master Splinter had not spent any solo time with him since Raph had been injured.

\tDon wasn't sure why their father was avoiding being alone with Raph, other than he simply was unsure of what to say to him.  The rift between Master Splinter and Leo wasn't healed and that relationship was a bone of contention for Raph.

\tMaybe Master Splinter felt he needed something definitive to offer Raphael.  Talk without action was a pet peeve of his hot blooded brother's.

\tThe day progressed along almost normal routines.  Master Splinter gathered his sons together for meditation, urging them to let their minds become pools of stillness.  Raph sat on the floor between Leo and Mikey, his eyes closed as he followed his sensei's directions.  

Though Don was supposed to be working on his own meditation, he couldn't help but glance at his brothers.  Raph was clearly too tense to meditate.  He remained still though, no doubt glad to have something to do other than sit on the couch.

Late in the day Raph began to pace.  Inactivity was getting the better of him, but Don was out of ideas on how to placate him.  That was always one of the biggest downsides to Raph's being confined to the lair, especially when it was due to an injury.

``Donny, where's my shell cell?'' Raph finally asked.  ``I wanna call Casey.  I ain't talked to him since we got into that fight and chased him out of the lair.''

``I'll get it,'' Don said, setting aside the carburetor he was cleaning and getting up.

Don grabbed the phone off the charger in his lab and brought it out to Raph.  Then he sat down on the floor in front of the coffee table again and went back to work.

Raph stopped behind the couch as he waited for Casey to answer.  Leo and Mikey were in the open pit area sparring against each other.

``Yo Casey!  How's it hanging?'' Raph said into the phone.

There was a moment of silence as Raph listened, then he said, ``Nah, it's just us having our monthly difference of opinion.  It's all cool now.  Anything going on?''

Don grimaced slightly.  Though they couldn't maintain radio silence with the outside world forever, he hoped Casey wouldn't say anything to get Raphael riled up.

This time the silence dragged on long enough for Don to glance in his brother's direction.  If anyone ever wanted to see a turtle doing an impression of a pressure cooker about to blow its top, they had only to look at Raphael.

``They're doing what?'' Raph shouted.

All of Don's hopes for a peaceful evening were immediately dashed.

TBC.......

", "pools_count": 1, "title": "Beck and Call part 23", "deleted": "f", "public": "t", "mimetype": "application/msword", "pagecount": "1", "rating_id": "2", "rating_name": "Adult", "ratings": [ { "content_tag_id": "4", "name": "Sexual Themes", "description": "Erotic imagery, sexual activity or arousal", "rating_id": "2" } ], "submission_type_id": "12", "type_name": "Writing - Document", "guest_block": "t", "friends_only": "f", "comments_count": "4", "views": "489" }