Fortress Gorlan: Ratty Ceremony.

During the ceremony, and especially when in view of those other than Svengal, Don is the epitome of well behaved. He's smiling in the right places, and generally paying attention where he is expected to.

At least outwardly. Underneath it all, he's on high alert. He's aware of every single movement of those near him, and several farther away. It's one of those things he usually trusts Leo to do, but... his Leo isn't here. Also... crowd. Don is always hyper aware of a crowd. The kids are also being incredibly well behaved, for which Don is grateful. And it allows him to let his senses drift a little more.

He smiles as the cloak draws gasps. Yeah... he enjoyed that.

Don caught the slight dig. Oh yes... they understood. What Don will never understand is how Svengal could treat others like this. How he could treat his children like this. It does seem that this is at least starting out okay though, and for that Don is grateful. He's glad that Princess Yua seems to be fairly open to the situation.

He's amused by those around him. Mikey and Bebe seem to be really into the ceremony. As Donatello kisses Princess Yua, Don watched as is expected for a moment, then glanced over and caught Leon's expression. HA! The smaller blue-masked turtle is totally busted. But Don won't tell. He's just amused.

Oh oooooh ohhhh wow - Leon's eyes were wiiiiide and he'd never thought to try the, the princess seemed to be enjoying it!


And he glances and sees Don busting him and grins sheepishly.

Yua really couldn't believe the kiss - and how breathless it left her when the celebrant cleared her throat and they broke apart mostly to the cheers and general applause to the congregation.


Donatello took the moment to compose his face back into delight, trying not to look to overly pleased and proud he'd clearly left the princess flustered. Well he'd had plenty of practice and funnily enough she was not a stranger to it either. And he was intrigued by that. But later they could get to the bottom of it -


- not listening to the sweet old wind bag proclaim the marriage official - and taking Yua's ahnd - because he knew this was torture for his fellow Don and he wanted to get their children out of the main focus... or at least mostly, he overrides the celebrant and takes over Svengal's role in a way Leonardo would, slipping in as the lord goes to proclaim -" Let the feast and entertainments begins!" a loud shout - to more cheers and beginning to lead the procession to the seated tables - food and bride gifts and then some entertainment and dancers - the marriage dance...


But at least for now he and Yua had the attention as they found seats at the head of the table, Svengal in place of pride to the Princess's side and Don on Donatello's side. Leon hurrying about to snag the chair beside Inaba and it meant Bebe had to migrate to their side which delighted Mikey.


On the way down and as he is sitting after pulling out and tucking in the Princess's chair Donatello gives Don a grin, " better?" both about his jab and the sort of getting out of the most of the attention of the crowd. Offering to take his pretty little terror back from Don.

Liam has no idea what's happening, but he does wave from his dad's arms - all the more confident because he was there and safe and had Elena close, tilting his head up and churring nuzzling into Don as they are herded to the seats - ooooh food! he doesn't wait for a n invite and helps himself to the crackling of some meat beaming.


Making kissy faces between bites his little baby teeth and one growing in sharper one crunching easily through the tough crackling.

Elena giggles, gasping covering her mouth and watching the kiss - little wings fluttering against Don's plastron and her hands clapping excitedly. Oh she is a little more aware of whats going on though couldn't quiet grasp the significance to her.


And thrilled when food was there and Lord Svengal could look but clearly unable to stop her from reaching eagerly with Liam and getting some meat to char. Offering her piece up to Don - missing in the moment her new dads hands hold out for her.

Don's arms were full when the rest of the congregation was clapping, but the kids seemed to have it covered, and Liam was even waving. Amusing as it was, Don is already feeling burnt, and he's hoping this can be finished quickly! And when Donatello takes matters into his own hands preempting the fat, little lord, Don's words are soft enough to almost completely be covered by the cheers, but they're sincere.

"Oh thank shell, I love you, bro." because yes, this is torture. And the big guy stepping on Svengal's proverbial toes... HA!

After they've been herded to seats, and the kids are mostly settled, he accepts the morsel from Elena with a chuckle and a "Thank you." It's a little difficult with Liam churring and nuzzling, but Don is enjoying that way too much to even consider stopping him. So... he works around it, responding with his own nuzzles to the child when he gets a chance. He then  turns  to his counterpart for another soft, if emphatic response regarding the quick end to the ceremony, "That was awesome!" before shifting so Donatello can get Elena more easily. "I think your dad wants you, Sweetie."

This is better, a bit. At least they're not the center of attention quite like they were earlier, but it's still a crowd. It's at least a change though, and he can work with that.

And Liam's nuzzling is definitely keeping him from paying too much attention to how many people are around them. He is still aware, that's not something he can turn off, but it's more tolerable. And so far the juds have kept him busy enough that he hasn't even acknowledged that Leon and Bebe seem to have switched places.

He is still looking forward to this being over though! Or at least a temporary escape.

Oh yeah go Donatello - Mikey bounced along with Don - and didn't care where he was sitting beaming, Lord Svengal doing a small speech to the gathering - Mikey is amused the little rotund lord seems a little flustered by Donatello and trying to regain composure. Stuffing as much into his gob as he could, chewing and swallowing Mikey leans past Bebe who was sitting between them and grins at Don, " signal when you want to manage some mischief Don and I'll sing something - no one will be able to look away! hehehe and you should steal the fairy here to help with the mischief.' And well just encase Don wanted to sneak away on his own he just needed to let Mikey know in other words and he'd create a distraction for that too.


Donatello grins back at Don, whispering as servants bring about morsels for him to try first. Then Yua beside him, and Donatello made a point to shoo the next one to her first, " Love you two brother, and your welcome." and nod and eagerly wigglign his fingers as Elena mmmmms and playfully sits back in Don's grip for a bit longer before coming over. He tickles her lightly and then with a silent thanks to Don in the form of a nod he lets their shoulders brusha nd grins as Mikey leans over to chatter. " Now I know you two have sort of met a few times, now it's time to meet properly, Elena meet Princess Yua. Milady... my wife... meet the most adorable little lady ever, Elena." Shifting Elena to the knee closest to the princess. And in such a way it was another point made at Svengal for all the looks he had been giving Elena. Oh yeah he noted.


Leon and Inaba hold hands under the table - sharing a giggle at the antics of Mikey Leaning over Bebe.. and having almost knocked her cup out of her hand.

Elena had giggled, pleased to share with Don and now meeting the princess properly, was nervous, and the Princess apprehensive, buts she was going to try... And so offered the little terror a prime peice of meet she would never have had before being as low in society as she was. " nice to meet you Elena. And I have seen you around before, i am glad you found such a caring new dad." there she thought she was doing this well. Elena takes the morsel with a gap then a giggle and nod snuggling back against Don.


Liam beams, " Dad... dad.. dad... Leas Dad... my Dad..' oh he was happy! and didn't care when atention came his way busy meeting those nuzzles and churring and a few times he mimics the act of Elena crispign her meat but as his glands would not mature for many years he just sounded like he wheezed on the pieces of food.

Don isn't sure if he should be impressed or appalled by Mikey's eating habits. Though... it's not an entirely unusual feeling around a Mikey. He nods at the words. Message received, and he'll let Mikey know when he's ready to slip off. It's still a little too obvious now. As much as Don would like to get out of the busy area. He'll wait until a few more people have finished eating and are starting to dance and mingle.

He saw the cup nearly going over, and was ready to stop it if Mikey had actually taken it over. Thankfully, Mikey just missed!

And as for bringing along Bebe... It's tempting, but he's worried that what he's about to do would get her in trouble, and he doesn't want that. It's one thing for him to get in trouble. It's quite another to drag her down with him.

Don chuckles softly as Elena plays and snuggles against him before going off into her Dad's arms to officially meet Princess Yua. The princess seemed to be making an honest attempt, and Don could respect that!

He chuckles at Liam's words, and his mimicking of Elena crisping her meat. Don does manage to put a couple of items on his own plate, and he mostly picks at them. It's slow, but he is eating a little. Like the last couple of meals, it's mostly lighter items and he's passing on the heavier things.

Liam huffs a little and looks up at Don, " meeee too s... small to... do dat..." pointing at Elena's small flame - he had some sense he would be able to one day - just not yet...

And 'helping' his Dad by noting what Don was choosing and adding more of the same sorts to his plate. And maybe scoffing whole greens - though the boy like Elena had a preference and taste for charred meats of all sorts. though he faved fish.

Lord Svengal huffs a little - wanting to tell his daughter she should NOT be encouraging lower classed beings to covert more than their station. However he is distracted and probably good for him - But he does lean over and clear his throat, " how have the rest of you found the hospitality?" the hospitality brought by this ceremony.


Putting it broadly as more servants make the round with different drinks and food -


Donatello was being careful to sip or nibble to get a taste of everything as it comes around - trying where he could to say thank you to the servants, maybe annoying the little lord to speak up now - or the fact that Yua shyly reaches for the little terror girl. Donatello missing Liam's attempts to copy his little friend and flat out ignoring the Lord for the moment as he patiently navigates the getting to know you portion of the day between Elena and Yua. Because he has no idea yet how this adventure will end and hopes that if he is snatched away Yua will take care of or see to the care of Elena is seen to. though he is aware of Mikey's offer to Don and grins a little, it would be awesome and truth be told Don could probably ferret out useful information out of the restriction section of the library or in the maesters records.


And is amused by Leon's thoughtful frown over at Lord Svengal at his question - and listens but focuses mostly on the girls now.

"Yes, you are. Someday though, My son." Don whispered to Liam. He is quiet because he doesn't want the dragon thing getting out. He then kissed the child's head.

Don is making a couple mental notes about what Liam is choosing. Other than the items that he clearly picked solely because Don chose them for himself.

This is better than standing up on the steps in front of the whole group, but... not much. He's still tense, but is doing his best to keep it under wraps.

"Excessive." Oops... he said that out loud in response to the horrible little, fat, rat man. It was mostly muttered, but... oops... If Svengal has Master Splinter type hearing, he probably heard it. If his hearing is less acute or he hadn't really been paying attention to Don for an answer, it might have slipped under the radar. He means it though... pretty much everything since he woke up falls into this category for him.

Part of him wants to see how the peasants live. He's pretty sure he'd have more respect for them than Svengal. He certainly thinks more highly of the homeless back in New York than he does of the leaders and businessmen...

Svengal beamed though as if this was a compliment - and it mostly was, it meant he had the wealth and power and it was being noticed, so he definitely took it that way. " indeed.... you came to us in very bad shape, I am pleased you are up and about - and able to join us on this special day." Choosing to mostly take the aimed at him shots as good things - because he definitely wanted to keep the Genio Innocuo in reasonable spirits.


A grin to his daughter and her new husband. " they seem a good match."


Mikey snorts a little, " yeaaaah because their both good people, lucky for you." He couldn't imagine doing this to any of his... one day kids - sure he could see why - he just couldn't do it himself.


Donatello smiles watching Elena and Yua both shyly try to get used to this, and eases it - letting his shoulder and Don's bump gently in a sign he was paying attention to the conversation with the little fat lord he was just focused else where. lightly asking the two girls what parts of the gardens was the best because that was a place Elena had said she had seen the princess most and so it stood to reason to him they both probably had favourite flowers or scenery or places they liked to see the most.


Bebe tried to sink in her chair a little and hung her head not eating - just sipping to draw as little attention from the lord as possible. It was unusual for a servant to be in the seated positions of power so she was not used to it.


Liam chirped and smiled at Don... in fact unlike most kids... Liam loved fish - all types... the sushi like dishes that went past, the stone cooked or battered and little octopus like critters in a tossed salad of muscles and shell fish and crunchie root vege. One day he might be big enough to fly and catch his own fish and burn it to swallow. He is happy to be small and snuggle against Don and eat - offering all his portions to his dad first before he'd chow. " be as biiiig as you one day?" oooooooooh in aweeee at the thought.

Wealth? Maybe. Power...? Eh... maybe. Respect? Certainly not.

Don is quite aware of the state in which he arrived. The noncommittal noise he made at the statement regarding his illness was worthy of Raph barely tolerating one of Leo's orders. His red masked brother would be proud.

There's a soft huffed laugh at Mikey's words because that was a good one. "A lovely family." Syrupy sweet, definitely bringing Elena into the mix.

Don then turns to Bebe. His question is quiet, meant only for her to hear.

"So... I have to admit that I'm not up on this sort of thing... we don't have this sort of class structure... what happens to you now that they're married?"

He has suspicions, but... hasn't exactly asked as of yet. Though yes, he is sort of blatantly ignoring the little lord in favor of the maid. And he's sort of watching to see if there is any food that passes by that she's maybe showing even a vague interest in, or sort of more pointedly ignoring. Anything that she seems to react to. He just makes notes for now.

Don turns down every single piece of seafood that Liam offers. Not because he necessarily dislikes seafood, at least not usually. Except the octopus thing... eeewwwww... But today it's more because he's just not quite feeling ready to attempt seafood. He's still more interested in rices or brothy soups. Though he does accept some of the vegetables with a soft 'thank you'.

He is also far more interested in Liam's words than the fat little rat.

"Yes, My Son. I think you will be. Someday." And he hugged the child close.

His tail wags, and he giggles pleased to share even just a few vegies!

nd shifts in Don's hold to snug him back and beams up at him, " yay! but me liks be small now..." happily and enjoying the snugging smelly vaguely fishy from his eating.

And he doesn't interrupt, just grins in a pleased way amused by Mikey's nice Segway and Don's agreement and the little talk going on between Liam and Don, missing the soft words for Bebe though he would have needed to hear that -


His focus was mostly ont he way Elena and Yua both thought about their favourite space and blurted out as one the old pond with the fish and the tree growing out of it that had a bee hive. Or something similar. And that was the ground they could build a fun exchange of things they found the best about that spot.


Donatello is just pleased he managed that.

" soooometimes the fish will come right up and take peas from your hands! and and the bees let you take a little comb and honey if you be very careful and slow..." she is telling princess Yua excitedly trying not to wriggle about too much on her knee but not entirely able to sit still!

Leon is happy and proud to be sitting beside very lovely looking Inaba. And she has big ears so she can hear the conversations so bonus! and their giggling a bit about a servants attempts to flirt with another and some other nonsense, though he is watching Don and Liam, Mikey and Bebe and Donatello encase any of them wanted his or Inaba's attentions.

Mikey complies a bit more on the pretty little family thing - grinning, pointing out a bit to the little fat lord that cast a sort of disdainful look at Donatello, Yua and Elena... and only reluctantly and slowly agreeing with him and Don on the point -


" see their getting along and all!" happily! because the girls were getting along clearly, whatever Donatello had said, smug dude was hard to miss he said something - clearly had common ground for them to bond over.

Bebe waits until the lord - stuttering out a " yes... absolutely looovely and they look happy..." not helped that over there his daughter and the little terror were getting on like a house on fire discussing the fish feeding and -


And that smug look on Donatello's face probably didn't help but now his ratty attention was else where she smiles at Don and - well she was focusing on foods that included honey... she loved honey.... little honey cakes and or meats basted in honey sorts of sauce.


" I am Yua's companion, so I become his too, travel with, sleep with ... either of them. If when she is with kit and he has needs she cannot meet... well he could have me if she chooses to share...I am not a damonfeuer so to be able to wet nurse if she doesn't wish a maester will assign me cococtions to bring on my milk." she was nervous about the whole thing but had been Yua's companion all her life so had been raised to expect this would come some day. Keeping voice soft and being when a sort of milky white mousse came around with a golden topping of syrup and quickly catching two offering one of the sweets to Don, " crousse and honey?"

Bebe'a words are met with open staring. He accepts the whatever it was she offered him completely out of habit. Just accepting whatever was being put in his hands. He has no idea what it is, he was still processing the previous statement. The item is put down on a plate with the same level of attention. It might be his plate. It might be Liam's. Don has no idea.

"You're not serious..." No, she looks quite serious. "You... are serious..."

He pinches the space between his eyes for a moment. You've got to be kidding... The treatment of people here is just...

He looks over to his counterpart. Did you hear that? Did you have any idea about that? When you get a chance, Don needs to speak with you. Liiiiike... now. ASAP.

but... he turns back to Bebe. A little more fact finding first.

"This might seem like a ridiculous question... But... if she's under his protection now... Does that mean you are too?

Bebe is not quiet understanding his reaction and becomes concerned.


Where she had been giggling at Liam whom had looked down briefly and then up and there on his plate was the treat and he squeals in awe and delight and then even more when he tries it out. With his fingers... not even attempting to use the spoon!


And she reaches out, " you okay?... need a head ache potion?" her wings fluttering and then blinking at the question and ummmming a little bot, " Sooort of... he is not obligated to care for me as he is her, but as I am hers he is responsible for my upkeep. And ensuring I am able to meet all Yua's needs. I......" she glances to ensure the little fat lord is still busy pouting a bit at how much Elena and Yua are getting along over there and continues in a soft voice. " heard some of my fellow maids have it pretty bad with some of Yua's sisters husbands... I am glad you told me... and from what I have seen so far I do not have to fear Donatello will take out anger on me." In other words some of them did beat their wives - and one couple were as bad as each other that older princess had gone through several maids.

Don is vaguely aware of Liam thoroughly enjoying something very... very... sticky... Must have put the honey thing on his plate. He doesn't pay it much mind though. Because his attention is definitely still on Bebe and the Twilight Zone episode he's pretty sure he's in right now.

"No, thank you... I'm fine." Well... No... he's not. But it's not a headache in that sense of the word. He's still sort of blown away by this information. He catches that she's making sure that Svengal's attention is elsewhere before she tells about the husbands beating the maids, and Don is quiet a moment. Taking the time to calm down, and doing his absolute best to hide the rage he's feeling toward that fat, little rat.

"No, absolutely not. He won't take anger out on you. Certainly not physically." Don's pretty sure that, given an exceptionally good reason, Donatello might tell her off with relatively calm, eloquent verbiage, but not with volume or fists. "If you answer to Yua, and she's under his protection now, do you still technically answer to Svengal?"

And a pause. Because he has more questions!

"And... What if... and completely hypothetical, okay? What if you didn't want to be her maid anymore? What would happen?"

Donatello had caught the sort of look... and wondered about it. Thinking over how to excuse themselves from the celebrations for a moment and still grinning like a fool cause the princess and Elena were still bonding, now over the treats passing, and he could see it was disturbing Svengal who was clearly not certain where to go in a conversation with any of them. Though it was amusing Mikey was shoving food samples at him - hah!


Liam... gets the little shallow glass and tries to scoop out every last bit... now with his tongue...


" I... am not sure what you mean..." Bebe wonders in a soft tone. She'd never actually considered or thought of seeking a destiny or determination of her own being raised beside Yua as he best friend, maid, companion... relieved looking though Don said he was alright and not hurting, this time offering him a lemon cake off a passing tray.


And just then as Leon is batting Mikey back a little as Inaba giggles and refuses politely a meaty dish, Donatello stands up and says quiet suddenly, " I have to urinate." hah! if the look he got before out the corner of his eye his counterpart might join him.


He didn't have to pee but it drew some laughs and that was worth it.

Oh...so much sticky... Though Don is still only vaguely aware of the mess Liam has made. That's... a lot of honey...  Eh... whatever. Too late now.

He heard his counterpart's announcement while he's still sort of trying to figure out a response to Bebe's confusion. Geez... HA!

Bebe's lack of understanding of the question is leaving a sour taste in Don's mouth. And he feels sick over her words... And, well heck. There's his exit. Still recovering, right? He can use that. He politely shakes off the lemon cake.

Jumping up, he glances to Mikey and Leon. He's fine, but he's leaving now! And... Bebe's probably worried.

"Why don't you go help Uncle Mikey, My Son. I will be back." He moved Liam toward Mikey, but doesn't actually touch Mikey with the sticky child. He's pretty sure Mikey wouldn't mind, but he's not going to assume that. It might get on Mikey's clothes.

And hey, if sticky child fingers somehow wound up in Svengal's fur, well... Don's okay with that. As soon as Liam is passed off to one of the others, Don slips out the door.

And excusing himself most profusely from his ladies And offering the lord a bit of a grin and cheeky salute Donatello walks out bumping against Don too, " need to pee too Don?" playful and all for the show of the audience and well he is not sure where to go first but servants out here pointed along so he goes that way and as they are being pointed and that - well he decides he should pee whilst here int he bathroom why not? it was ... like the ones for their room but clearly for the males mostly. " what is it Donatello? you were trying to get my attention before. And you seem... upset or very bothered by something..." keeping the words soft and find what stood for a urinal in this world ... well he had sufficient control down there to not have to hold himself and look where he was peeing to avoid splash back.


He'd not overheard all of the conversation with Bebe. In fact very little, he knew the two had been chattering, impressively so with a rowdy and busy Mikey near by who upon last checking had been annoying Leon, maybe flirting and or teasing Inaba.


He was still rather proud of how much he got Yua and Elena to get along. To be truthful he probably hadn't done much but reminded them of times they had interacted int he gardens and like each other. But he was pleased to have bridged that for them.

Liam was not eager to let go and may have got sticky fingers all over Don's plastron in attempts to hang on - but eventually he does and pouts for a bit - and there is a puffing of his plastron even with the stuck out bottom lip and a nod, " kaaaa away will was UnleMiMi." - and indeed Mikey gathers him up sticky or not to ward off the poking from Leon.


Distracting the little guy from fretting. For now.

He had done a credible job of keeping everything under wraps until they were alone, but once he's sure that they're the only ones here, Don is practically vibrating. As if the anxiety about being out in public like this for this long wasn't bad enough, now he's angry too. He's containing the worst, but 'upset and bothered' is probably clearly an understatement now. And he needs a moment to control himself before he can speak. He exhausted his ability to be calm about it while talking to Bebe.

He's aware if where they are, and keeps his voice low, but he's speaking rapidly, and there's almost a frantic edge. Don hates here and is well aware of the strength of that word.

"So... maids, servants? Wrong. Slaves. And in Bebe's case, and surely the case of Yua's sisters' maids too, that seems to be up to and include sex slave. At least... pretty sure. She keeps using words like 'companion' and 'needs' in ways that--" He cut himself off. Breathe! Sort of. It's semi-successful.

"And if Yua 'chooses to share,' when she doesn't feel like it, that apparently includes you too. And Oh, how about that they're beyond grateful to learn you won't beat them just because you can, and she's supposed to actively intervene in such a situation." Not that Don thinks it ever would happen, but it had been part of the conversation. He is sure Yua has brothers-in-law who have taken advantage of both ways one might beat a maid. And Svengal married his daughters off to people who would beat them! And they likely had as little say in the matter as Donatello and Yua did!  Vibrating energy is slowly giving way to shaking as he gets some of this out of his system. He needs to calm down, but he can't yet. His words are still just barely not strung together completely. It's definitely rapid fire.

"Oh, and if Yua doesn't want to nurse offspring, the Maester plays with the 'maids,' sarcasm on that word is dripping, because he means slave. "hormones so she can do it instead. I mean... I know humans can do that, it's even possible for human males, but it's-- OFF TOPIC! Biology chatter is easier than vent chatter, but he catches himself and drags himself back to topic. He waves a hand. almost as though trying to erase the thought and get back to what he's trying to say.

"Evidently, you're responsible for her 'upkeep' whatever that means, so she can attend to Yua's every need." He can only assume upkeep is food, clothing, shelter, etc., but he can't say for sure. He's finally slowing down his rant. And really, he's not sure if he's more upset about some of those 'needs' or 'upkeep'. UGH! That's a word for household maintenance! Not a person!

"I... posed a hypothetical what if a maid didn't want to do that anymore... she didn't understand the question..." Never even something to be considered...

And he's done. Completely spent, and after all that breathing a bit heavily. He folds his arms to stop his hands from shaking. He's tired, and his body is telling him this is not how one behaves when one has not eaten properly for a week...

"Sorry... I shouldn't have dragged you out of there... I should have waited... I'm sorry. Should have gotten Leon... uh... sorry." Don hates it here... Hates. It.

Donatello first lets Don just get it all out, listening and breathing deep trying himself to not get caught up int he anger and fear and hatred. Trying to rationalize to himself that this was not an unfamiliar thing, there in human history and even historical japan there was various social castes and treatment of those castes ranged from bad to abhorrent.


It's hard, he shifts restlessly as it grows harder. But he is managing and with a clearing of throat catches Don's shoulders. " calm down! breath... breeeaaaaaath..." his first thought was worry of how this was affecting Don, because the guy was barely back on his feet and eating! he didn't need to give himself some sort of attack or fit or bursting a blood vessel somewhere! " I... sensed there might be something... wasn't sure what, but something about the caste systems here I wouldn't like, no hate."


He in talking fast and low because even if very large male mutants could take time peeing there was only sooo much he could pretend to be doing so in here... ah well if people wonder he'll excuse it with other bathroom visiting excuses. Pooping... masturbating. Whatever he'll deal when it came up. For now he pats Don's shoulders. " I.... think - I don't know but I thiiiink given my new position I miiight be able to affect some changes. Anything huge will have to go through the daimyo guy when we save him. But within mine and Yua's marriage I might be able to make some changes. Set an example, lead by doing as Leonardo would say."


Pausing to see if Don wanted to say more or make suggestions on that side of things, trying to help calm his interdimensional brother by presenting some things they could do for now that might get a ball rolling on easing up the awful sounding caste system for the better. And after he might suggest Don excuse himself to pillage the library and take some books out to their cart and beast in preparation to leave. Donatello certainly didn't want to stay longer than necessary.

Don knows his history too, and he knows that many human societies had this sort of system, and that this is nothing particularly strange.

He still doesn't like it.

When Donatello grabbed his shoulders and ordered him to calm down and breathe, much like Leo would do, Don is pretty sure he realized why he had dragged the big guy out here rather than Leon. Aside from that he really needs to know. Don's larger counterpart is the only member of their traveling group that Don actually looks at as an older brother. Leon might be a Leo, but... he's way too Mikey-like for Don to actually see him as an older brother. And Mikey's... well... Mikey. As much as Don does respect the crazy little turtle.

Oh... he does not feel good...

The nod at the order to breathe has the same sort of frantic energy that his ranting did, and it takes him a moment to reach past it. Finally he falls back on an old breathing technique Master Splinter taught so long ago. It had sort of been a precursor to meditation.  It's simple, Liam could probably do it. But it's familiar and calming. And something Don and his brothers will still resort to in order to clear their minds.

As he manages to breathe and starts to calm down, he stops shaking. At least that's something.

When the larger turtle pats his shoulders and speaks again. Suggesting that maybe Donatello's new position could be used to incite change. Don actually looks up. There's sort of soft chuckle. It's not really frantic like his ranting had been, maybe a little cynical sounding.

"That's part of what the Genio Innocuo do, right?" He's finally calmed down."I'd be happy with the whole... slave thing being frowned upon at the moment." He understands that won't really end the practice, but maybe it could at least give these people a reason to think they could be more.

He glances around the bathroom. They've been in here an awfully long time for just a moment to pee...

"If anyone asks, tell them something didn't agree with me and you were helping me." Don's not actually going to throw up. Though might have if he hadn't gotten that all off his chest. And it's not entirely untrue. And probably entirely believable. And he at least needs another moment before he goes back into the hall.

Being calm is making a big difference. He doesn't feel like he's going to throw up anymore. He's definitely feeling better with those words off his chest. That and being out of the reception hall. Oh... he doesn't want to go back, other than to collect Liam and leave... But he's pretty well aware that isn't exactly an option.

Donatello nods, and siiighs a little, " I don't like everything that has transpired here, and I am aware we may run into more examples of this caste system. Or maybe it just still exists among the rodentry types. Either way I'll... um think of something and well run it by the princess. These are her people after all and if at the end of this I am not here to help with the fall out I don't want to leave her dealing with something without a heads up. Sides she would be in a better position to make further changes," he rubs his chin and is mostly thinking out loud as Don takes his advice and calms himself.


Donatello grins a little, " that's better than what I was planning to say held me up - I was going to go with a more self pleasuring sort of angle... well if your not up to it, perhaps I could excuse you went back to the room if you want to. And maybe send Bebe with Liam in a little while or Leon with him - or bring him... especially if you need a little time alone first to - feel better." or raid restricted areas of the library.


He was thinking about how to talk to the princess about this. His wife - she seemed open minded and seemed from the limited contact to be at least bright.

Don sort of half nods at the explanation of things really having to be through Yua. And it makes sense. He is listening. He's still not thrilled with how everything here is going, but he's accepting somewhat reluctantly.

He likes the idea of at least not going back to the party right away.

"Maybe send him with Leon. Just in case I get lost on the way back to the room."

Don's ninja. He might not have been in the halls often, but he knows exactly how to get back to the room. But it might be a good time to raid the restricted section.

He has calmed down. He's not feeling great, but he's functional and calm. And actually particularly ready to raid the library.

"If you could ask anything, what would it be?" Any topics in particular Don should look for? Beyond fae magic. If he finds anything about dimensional travel or genio innocuo he might grab that too.

[8B008B]" I'll be... as tactful as I can about putting this on my new wife... it wont be easy to just demand she change everything in her way of life..."[/color] mostly thinking out loud at this point and chuckling a bit when Don settles on Leon.


He elbows his counterpart lightly, " Alright I'll send Leon when Liam gets sick of the attentions, he is enjoying the food now but will miss you soon enough. As for Bebe, she doesn't know any better, but... she'll learn, who knows even your question might have sparked something already?" he nods and they had to leave the bathroom by now. Donatello taking a moment to straighten himself up.


" thankfully we have a Mikey and if people get too nosy I'll take him upon his offer to entertain folks." the question about what he would ask he thought about deeply.


" if I could? All of it of course... mmm for now I would settle for more knowledge about drakes, more about the people of Nexus. Maybe some low level magics we might even be able to try out." he shrugs, in other words anything to give them an edge in the fight that was no doubt facing them.

Don semi-nods at the words. True, it might not be fair to demand the princess change everything about her way of life, he gets that. And he trusts his counterpart to point out how the current way things are might not be fair.

And there's a slight smile that maybe his question of Bebe could have sparked some sort of questioning of her own. He would be thrilled if it had. Though again, he would hate to get her in trouble.  Though he sort of suspects that it will take someone getting in trouble for things to change.

"He's good at that." Don chuckled softly at getting Mikey to entertain and distract. It seemed that most Mikeys were good at that, but this one seemed particularly capable.

Don adds Drakes and various peoples of the Nexus to his mental list.  "Maybe major historical events or a quick history of the Nexus." That should be more readily available though. There might be something in the past that could help with the current events. As the saying goes, "those who do not learn from the past are doomed to repeat it."

Though who knows, maybe repeating something would be in everyone's best interest. Don doesn't know enough about the Nexus history to say. Just tidbits he picked up during the Championship.

And for most of the time he might have otherwise used to learn a little about the Nexus, he had been otherwise occupied... Now he wished he'd had more time back then.

" Most Mikey's seem very adept at entertaining the masses." Donatello laughs and begins to lead out of the bathroom keeping talk light. " I'll trust when you get there you'll have a sense of what we may need, and just encases," he grins and siiiighs a little, " I say you have about an hour and half at most before Liam has to be returned to you he'll get antsy by then and start looking."


And making sure he is looking in high spirits and proud like a new husband should be he lightly knuckles Don's shoulder and yep even manages a hearty haughty strut back the way they came.

Don follows his counterpart out of the bathroom. He nods a bit at the information, and the guesstimate of how much time he has before Liam starts to get antsy.

As the larger turtle makes sure to change his demeanor to the high spirited, proud, new husband, Don allows his own 'cover'.

Considering how done he is with people and what just happened in the bathroom, it's not much of a stretch. Just a little exaggerated on the tired, sort of hunched not entirely well look. Though the larger turtle can probably still tell that Don's eyes are bright. He's fine. Just playing his role as they re-enter the hallway with servants and guests who may be bustling around.

As Donatello struts back to the party, Don slips back toward the library. He's moving slowly, taking his time. Making absolutely sure that he's truly alone in the halls before slipping into the library.

Before he chances the restricted section, he tries the more accessible sections. For now, he's searching for historical texts, as well as information about the various species of the Nexus. It's unlikely that sort of general information would need to be hidden. He's also getting an idea of how things in the library are laid out and categorized. Hopefully the restricted section will be similar, and he'll be able to search more effectively.

In addition to the book that is already in their room about various species, he picks up a book titled 'Dragon Wars.' He had almost bypassed it, assuming it was a fictional title...

It wasn't.

Seemed to fall into both the drakes category, and the history category. It also seemed to have some information about the various dragon species.

He will definitely take that.

There are several other titles he might be interested in, but... he will wait on those. He'll have to see if he can make a second trip. He doesn't have pockets like Mikey. He's limited in what he can hide.

Though he can get a couple more. He's pretty sure he can wrap the cloak around himself enough to hide a few books.

He's pretty sure he has a decent idea how the main section of the library is laid out. Hopefully the restricted section follows a similar pattern. He'd like to be in and out as quickly as possible.

bebe had snuck out...


and was aimless... where would she find the Don....


maybe back at their quarters? she makes her way that way...


though a little hesitantly - not just because what she was considering was beyond her level of permittance in this place - but because... since the return of the Donatello and announcements Don was going to rest a bit more and might return later as he was not quiet up to extended partying no matter how much he wanted to and apologised.


She felt she might have upset him...

Or something she said...


And it was weirdly quiet and empty in the halls now as she pads quietly along her wings fluttering - pushing open the room doors with soft knocks and poking her head in.

Turns out, the restricted section was similarly organized. Which was helpful. Don slipped between the shelves. He had hoped to pick up maybe three more books, but one on fae magic was a little thick.

And it turned out, their interdimensional travel, was 'basic magic.'  Which was another two topics met. Which at least gave them some information from the whole list. He took a moment to adjust the shelf each time he removed an item. Unless someone was looking for the specific book, their absence is likely to go unnoticed.

Wrapping the cloak around himself and the books, Don slips back out of the library, mindful of others that may be in the hall. A couple servants... (slaves!) moved into what he could only assume was the kitchen.

Once they were gone, he's in the hall. He moves slowly near the wall. Wrapped up, hunched slightly, he probably looks like he's cold, and not feeling well.

He caught the scent before he saw her. And his sigh is internal. He wasn't sure he had the energy for this right now... Really, all he wanted was to make another pass at the library. But he doesn't actually know where their cart is, so he was going to drop things here, at least long enough to pack them properly before searching for the cart he was sure he could find. Well... she's here, he'll manage.

Don isn't intentionally sneaking up behind her, but it's his nature anymore to step quietly. He doesn't purposely make noise.

"Hello again." Words soft, slightly slow. Playing the role he had suggested, and he was sure had been explained.

Oooooh she shouldn't be here.


And looks down not meeting his eyes and shifting from foot to foot. " I wont... keep you long - I know you are not feeling too good... just wanted to check you made it back here alright... um - I should go." a bit of a smile.


And it wasn't that she shouldn't be here that was making her feel on edge. there was a sort of still ness that shouldn't be even given most of the staff and servants were busy... there should still be guards and or the odd busy body but they seem absent.

As Mikey would say... his ninja senses are tingling.

Why...? why are they tingling? Shell. And he decides to stick with Bebe. Especially since he hasn't figured out what's wrong.

"It's alright, you came this far."

He keeps his words calm, but he's still searching for the problem he is feeling. Dammit, where is it? He's not sure of his next move yet, but he shifts closer to Bebe, in a manner that is vaguely protective, slightly ready. Other than positioning, it's probably difficult to see the shift in his stance under the cloak.

Something is wrong. Dammit, what is it? He really wishes he had a phone right about now... Or Leo...

A unsure smile, and her actual motivation for coming here is, not forgotten persay but sort of? Her wings give away her feelings, before when she was unsure and worried she was holding him up from rest they had dropped with her shoulders now they were buzzing, much like bee wings, not really flapping at full flaps just sort of vibrating in short motions making a soft hum sound.


She is nervous.


But couldn't put her finger on things. So her words were a bit slow in coming. " I... um... here let me help you in." still not sure what to make of the stillness and quiet. Reaching behind her to push the door open.

Oh... he's certain that her wings are giving away what she's feeling... and he wishes he could read them better. But he's reading nervous off her.

Whyyy?

She's reaching back to get the door.

"No, it's--"

And he feels himself reacting to... something. Oh... he hopes this is right! But it's one of those senses he's learned to trust. He might not be as consistent about it as Leo when he's not expecting something, but Don's already on edge. He's already had his senses stretched out as far as he can manage.

The books are dropped and if this works... they're both going down in a sort of modified tackle. His attempt is a tackle that's been rather painfully trained into him. On the way down, he's twisting so he hits first, but he also wants to stay between her and the door.

" I in - oooooooooowhooooooooooooa!"


Something had whizzed out of the room right where they had been- and he might have been okay but the nasty spear would have skewed Bebe and possibly a book or two. it slammed into the wall opposite and Bebe stays low, shocked - not understanding what had happened for a moment, straddling Dons hips her arms tucked in against plastron and wings flat against her back.


And for a moment too danged shocked, "you... you save... us?" whispered and missing the shape of something moving in the room beyond. "alm moost what I had in mii ind." she adds looking down at Don - missing the large scaley claw reaching out for her.

Funny thing, it really doesn't seem to matter how large or small the other person might be. A tackle and twisting to the bottom always hurts. He grunted when he hit and saw the spear. It's a familiar pain though, and he's not injured.

And it's his turn to be shocked. It's at what she said though. "What?" Implications soaring straight over his head in the moment. Though to be fair, he's not really paying attention to what she said. He's more worried about where that spear came from.

Unlike Bebe, he does see the claw. Don wraps one arm around her and rolls while ripping off his cloak, and throwing it at the clawed hand. Hopefully high enough to obscure the hand's owner's vision for a moment. Using that time, he's up and pulling her to her feet, giving her a light push back toward the party.

"Run!"

The owner of the hand has to be close to the door so he kicks it before following her!

' wha -" her sort of confused echo of his what was cut off and she finds herself on the floor with the scattered books, oh she scoops them all up quickly, ooooh some of these are heavy ! and whoas a little when Don pulls her back to her feet her wings taking over and shes hovering a foot off the floor and - his order to run comes just over the top of her -

" Skalengeck !!?" the warrior lizard like thing snarled and hissed and lunged at the genio innocuo male tail lashing towards Bebe but she had the books in arms and turned to go but there moooore coming through doors.

Don catches up to her and freezes, seeing more of these... he didn't quite catch that word. And was it a name or a curse? He's not sure.

"Shell... Uh..." These are not good options.

He decides that his odds in the hall are probably worse than taking his chances in one of the rooms. He grabs Bebe's hand and crashes through whatever door is to his right. Bo out, hopefully ready for whatever is beyond the door.

There was a 'within reason' qualifier on his terms for behaving and wearing what the Reinigen wanted him to, and bo stays was definitely top of the list.

Bebe stumbles which ever direction Don was going and holds the pile of books tighter. " Skalengecks - lizards!their - Don!" the windows of this room flew open a few more of the lizard people coming in and she sees the emblem some of them are wearing, " they are wearing Draco's crest." a the hand maid to the princess he was well versed in recognising crests and emblems.


Most of those in the hall were heading to the great hall to lock doors - some to go in and attack.


There was a crashing sound somewhere as a trebuchet out in the dark threw a rock at the fortress walls And now there was sounds of arrows firing, probably theirs - and some one blowing a horn.

He heard Bebe's words, and after the information about Draco's crest he responds. "That's all I need to know."

Oh... this was not good. Not good at all.

Okay, frontal assault is out. There's no way he can take on this many alone, at least not as many as were out in the hall. Especially not while also trying to worry about Bebe. This room though...

For now, he will do what he can to clear this room. He needs a moment to think! Don explodes forward. He's not usually the one to initiate an attack, but he's capable, and he does so now!

He whips his bo around, aiming for the head of the nearest lizard knocking him out, he's already tracking the next one, and whipping his bo back around, he takes that one's legs out from under him, hoping to drop him into what looks like a pretty heavy table. And off to a third, catching him in the gut and throwing him toward the window, hoping to slow any others that might try coming that way.

"Any secret passages here?" to Bebe. Hopeful! So hopeful! But not really counting on it.

Bebe had paniced - hit one over the hit with the pile of books but she wasn't soo good in a fight!


And awestruck watching Don - so when he spoke her wide eyed look took a moment to disappear and she nods, " of course... this way... man this is less fun that what I'd had thought we could try doing..." she rushes to the fire place in this room but slightly to its side and presses on a panel of the wall making it click softly and open. " there is a fire somewhere." she could smell it!

Don clears the room and follows Bebe to the passage. He had been busy with a lizard when she spoke, and hadn't quite caught what she said. And even if he had, he wouldn't have caught the implication.

He joins her as she commented on the fire.

"Probably several..." Not to be a downer, but if he had started the attack, he would have set several.

He puts his bo away, and moves to take her hand and pull her along behind him. He makes sure the door closes after them. He doesn't want anyone to follow.

"Where will this take us?"

He's not saying it, but his goal at the moment is to get to Liam.

She accepts the hand, books clutched to her chest - she has no idea their from the restricted section. She is however aware Don had them when he saved her life so she holds them and shifts her weight in the narrow and fairly quiet hallway beyond the room, there was the thin walk ways all through here, wide enough for some one of staff to slip about it might be that Dona nd Donatllo would have to slightly walk sideways to slip though. And she decides.


" this way... I... should be back by Yua's side..." the unspoken in the event she could she would like Don had dive or tackle her way in front to save her mistress from attack at her own risk. Shesqueezes the big hand, now noting how small her's was in comparison and walks again her wings small for a fae but long enough to brush the sides of the cool stone walls.


Though she jumps back in terror barely managing to hide a frightened squeal that might have given them away in here when there is a roar - no Skalengecks made that sort of sound. And no Reinigen either! she didn't mean to bump back against Don and her wings position in her fear is flight ready even if the clear end bent at the walls straight out and stiff.


She doesn't know it's Donatello. His roar was nothing like Raphaels or Leonardo's it had a heavy full long sounds, didn't go for as long and as he is last into one of the secret passage ways it's a searching sound, for Don! There is no alpha quality. Followed by Liam's very young sound - a long half wail half warbled sound that definitely called for his dad and echoed unlike the roar as they slipped into the hall. Yua snugged between Leon, Mikey and Inaba leading the way.