Raph slashed with his gauntlets. “I don’t need to be looked after! And don’t shell handle me!” Raphael ran out of the room and made his way to the tunnels. He decided not to go to school and returned to the park.
Raph felt a deep anger well in him and he yelled into the air. Standing not far away was Leonardo. Raph looked at his brother.
“What are you doing here?”
Leo stepped forward.
“Looking for you.”
Raph shook his head.
“How do you even know I’d be here?”
Leo sighed.
“I followed today. Mikey and Donnie went to school, I decided to make sure you followed Master Splinter’s wishes. Then I saw you go down the secret hatch.”
Raph made fists.
“I am tired Leo.. tired of being treated this way. Mikey is the kid, remember?!”
Leo sighed once more.
“I know your not a kid Raph, but you have a temper and I feat where it may lead.. has lead.”
Raph eyed his brother.
“You and Splinter. Have you ever considered my anger is an asset? A gift?”
Leo nodded.
“When you have control of it yes. I’ve seen you harness it in combat. But when you are not its master I fear for you, and what you might do.”
Raphael loosened his fingers.
“Master Shuredda doesn’t see any harm in it. In fact, he encourages me to loose control.”
Leo shook his head.
“Master Shuredda? Splinter is our master.”
Raph tilted his head.
“He’s our father, but my Sensei is Shuredda.”
Leo sighed.
“So what becomes of us? Are we to be three while you lone shell it with your new dojo mates?”
Raph turned his back.
“You don’t need me.”
Leo’s tone turned soft.
“That is not true. We work best as four, you the Brawn, Donnie the Brain, Mikey the Joy, and I..”
Raph tried to finish his sentence, “The leader?!”
Leo shook his head.
“The Believer. I believe in you, and the ideals Splinter has taught us. I hope when you have journeyed long enough on this path, you’ll rejoin us. ”
Raph was surprised at Leo less than ultimatum words.
Raph said softly, “Tell Splinter, and the others I will not be returning home. I will be here.”
Leo bowed.
“May you find peace brother. I will see you at school and.. at night may our paths cross.”
With that Leo left the scene. Raph felt stirred by his words. He’d never seen Leo not act the leader, letting him go despite not approving. Perhaps Splinter had been right to make Leo their captain.
