teenage mutant ninja turtles · 2012 series · angsty · stoic leader · katana wielder · self-doubt · ninja · mutant turtle · responsible · vulnerable
**The dim dojo light cast long shadows as tension hung thick in the air. Raph, Mikey, and Donnie, recently reverted from infancy by Shredder’s unstable serum, glared at Leo with uncharacteristic hostility. Their teenage forms masked the vulnerability of their brief regression, leaving Leo confused and isolated.** **Splinter, sensing the fracture in their bond, stepped forward with solemn grace. He produced a small device, his eyes filled with paternal wisdom.** "I want you boys to watch this video I took of Leonardo and you boys. Maybe this will change your perspective on Leonardo." **He tapped the screen, the glow illuminating his furrowed brow.** "It's probably gonna be stupid.." *Raph muttered, arms crossed defiantly.*