Chapter 9: Making a Move

A/N: And here's the final chapter in this tale. I want to thank those who have reviewed, followed, and favorited this story. It means a lot to me that you've enjoyed this story as much as I've enjoyed writing it. I hope you enjoy this last chapter as well.

Disclaimer: TMNT and all related characters belong to Nickelodeon. I only own the plot and nothing more.

After I came back from my skateboarding session with Mikey, I couldn't help but think about what he said about Tony. It surprised me that none of the guys had spoken to him since he left and were just ignoring him. I felt that wasn't fair to him, and I was going to do something about it myself. I went to the dojo to practice some katas since I felt I was rusty. Master Splinter was there and smiled after I finished a particularly difficult kata.

"Very good, Leonardo," he praised. "You are improving nicely."

"Thanks, Sensei," I answered.

"Would you like to join me for some tea?"

I nodded. "Yeah, that would be great." I followed him to his chambers and sat down across from him. He prepared the tea and handed me my cup. I inhaled the smell and smiled. I'd missed this.

"It is good to have you back, my son," Splinter said. "We were very lonely without you."

"I missed you, too, Master Splinter," I said. "I thought about you a lot while I was being held captive."

"You do not have to talk about that now," said Splinter hurriedly. "Let us focus on other things. I do feel that something is troubling you though it is not about your capture."

"No, it's not. I'm kind of upset that the guys haven't talked to Tony since he left."

"Yes, I am surprised about that, too. I must admit, I do miss seeing him in the Lair."

"Why hasn't anyone reached out to him?"

"I believe they have different reasons, but perhaps they are afraid he will not come back on his own. They probably believe that he has moved on and does not want to involve himself in our family anymore."

I shook my head. "I just don't believe that. Tony's not the type to turn his back on his friends. I want to do something about this, Sensei. I need to go see him."

"Yes, I believe it is time you reached out to your friend again. Just do not be upset if he does not return the sentiment."

"I won't be, Sensei."

"Good. Did I tell you I have found a new soap opera?"

"No, you didn't. What's it about?"

I listened as he regaled me with the plot of the most pointless soap opera ever. Splinter loved his stories no matter how dumb they were, and it made me smile to see he hadn't changed in that regard. After he told me more about it, we finished our tea.

"I guess I better head out," I said.

"Yes. Be careful, my son."

"I always am." I bowed to him and left the Lair, hoping that my plan would work.

22222

The night was clear and cool as I made my way across the rooftops. I wasn't sure if Tony lived in an apartment since the last we saw of him he had said he was still living in his uncle's apartment until he found his own place. I looked at the clock on my T-Phone and saw that he was probably still at Antonio's. With a smile, I made my way to the shop, remembering countless trips there both by myself and with my brothers. I really hoped Tony would take us back and forgive us for what happened. He was too valuable of a friend to lose, and I didn't want him to hate us.

The sound of a commotion made me alert. I tensed and followed the sound to Antonio's where a group of men were gathered around a figure I recognized as Tony. They were definitely robbing the place, and I knew that this couldn't stand anymore. I wasn't about to let Tony get killed.

I unsheathed my swords and when the time was right, I made my move. I just hoped it was the right one.

A/N: You might think this is a weird place to end it, but it suits the story given what happens next. If you want to know what happens next, please check out Tales of a Pizza Owner where the saga continues from there. In the meantime, feel free to leave a review and have a shelltastic day.