TMNT:

A New Beginning

Chapter 3: The Search for Answers (Pilot Pt 3.)

1:12 p.m.

As soon as John was near to the door of the Dojo, he felt a little nervous and worried about why Splinter would want to see him in the first place. There was probably nothing to worry about, but still. He knocked on the door and heard coming from inside. "Enter." John listened to the voice and slid the door open. There, he saw Splinter kneeling down on the ground and had his eyes closed. He seemed to be meditating or something. "Um… Mister Splinter?" Splinter opened his eyes and saw John standing there. "Ah. Hello, Jonathan." "Hi?" John had no idea what to do. "Please. Kneel with me." John reluctantly obeyed, walked closer to the table and kneeled down to Splinter's level. Two teacups and pot were laid out on the table. "Would you like some Sencha green tea?" Splinter asked the young boy. John said yes and Splinter then started preparing the tea. "I wanted to discuss with you about the events that transpired this morning." John nodded in understanding, but he still felt a little uneasy. "You fought extremely well; all things considered." "Yeah." John stated. "I hope you were not troubled at what happen with Raphael. It was merely to see how well you were taught in the art of combat." "No, it's ok. I can handle guys like him." John replied and smiled at Splinter, confirming that he was fine and there was no problem at all. "My son does indeed acquire a temper, and he has trust issues, but understand that he only cares about the safety of his close friends and family. Including me." "You should've met my father." John said. Both Splinter and John chuckled at this. "Your father has taught you well." John smiled at that and nodded. "I assume he was familiar with most of the Japanese combat techniques." "Yes, sir. He taught me, Ryan and… someone else so we all can learn how to defend ourselves." Splinter was interested to know more about the young boy and where he originally came from. As John explained the current life that both he and Ryan lived in Raton, he became fascinated by this boy's faith and unknown courage. As he talked more for two or three minutes, he noticed and felt a strong presence within him. Something that he felt could not be explained.

Tmnt Splinter theme "Message from Splinter."

"Um… Mister Splinter?" Splinter smiled and raised his hand to correct him. "Please. Call me master." Splinter told the young boy. "Master Splinter?" John said, and Splinter nodded. "I keep hearing more and more about what this city is going through. I even see how this affects your sons. They're worried." "Yes. There is indeed a great darkness within. The Dragons and the Foot have been trying to take over New York City for two years. Only a year ago would I allow my sons to head above ground to fight the evil within, but…" Splinter looked down at the floor, and John saw the fear that was hidden on Splinter's face.

"My sons fear that they will not win this battle, and I believe may be right. I see them leave the lair at night, heading out to the world that is dangerous. I fear the day that may not come back." "Why do you?" John asked with curiosity. He knew that they were heroes and all, but he never took on the whole thing as to why they do what they do best. Splinter finally stood up from where he was, and he made his way towards the portrait of his master Yoshi. John also stood and took a drink of his tea, then put the cup gently down on the table. He walked and stood right next to Splinter. "My master Yoshi fought with great honor and wanted to fight for the greater good. Helping others was one of his life goals and missions. I let my sons fight because this city does need people who are willing to make the tough choices. Someone who isn't afraid of the darkness." As Splinter finished explaining, this made John a little curious and gave him time to think about what was said. He also had wanted to find ways to help others who couldn't take care of themselves, or maybe had once tried but had given up hope. "Perhaps someone like you."

Arrow signature sound, played during the soundtrack.

John then looked at Splinter surprised. "Someone with a good heart and compassion for others. It is now harder to find these days." Splinter said. "Oh. Yeah." John realized what he meant. Splinter smiled at that remark. "I just… I try to help anyway I can." "Why do you?" Splinter asked the same question John asked him, and this made John think a little hard. "Something of what my father told me. Something that he saw within in me, I guess." Splinter smiled at that statement. "The same reason why I let my sons do what they do." John blinked in surprise and then glanced at Splinter. "What I see in my sons is loyalty, honor, the will to do what's right, even if others tell them otherwise." "I'm not so sure about that." John said, unsure if it was true about what was said. "Jonathan, you may not realize it, but there is indeed a light inside of you. Even after everything that has happened, you still manage to have hope that things can get better. Perhaps that may be why you and Mr. Caldwell are here." John was about to say something, but then closed his mouth, as he was starting to reel in what was being said. He couldn't believe what was said. "I am quite certain that you two young boys are here by extraordinary events and have questions as to why, but you mustn't worry." "I… It's just… I don't know." Splinter was now glancing at John, hoping to read his tone and movement of what he was thinking. "I never thought this was all possible. Us meeting you, and me standing here talking with the wise sensei I've heard about." John chuckled nervously, and Splinter smiled. "Things used to make sense, but now…" "Yes, things have turned out the way you did not expect them to." "I want to help." Splinter heard those four words from the young 15-year-old boy and was a little surprised. "I don't know what it is that brought me and Ryan, but whatever we can do to help, I want to do it." John told Splinter with determination in his voice. Splinter walked back to his small table and. John wondered what he was thinking about and turned to look at him. "I can understand your worry for my sons. It has taken a toll on all of them, even if they do not wish to admit it." "That's why I figured that maybe whatever it is we can do…" Splinter raised his hand slowly to let him speak. John closed his mouth and let Splinter spoke. "Only time will come, young one. Even so, however, what is it you think you can possibly help with?" John stood there and wondered about it. "Well… I'm not sure." Splinter nodded then walked towards John. "I believe I understand very well what your purpose is in all this. That is one you and Mr. Caldwell must identify." John was a little confused by what he meant by that. "Sometimes, the answers lie in front of us when we least expect them to. Destiny is something that does not happen naturally for us, but the paths that lie before us are ours to choose, and ours alone." John looked at Splinter and thought about what was said. He was now convinced that maybe the reason lay somewhere in New York, and that he and Ryan were now connected. He still had "Do you understand?" John looked at splinter and nodded. "Yes sir." Splinter patted John's shoulder and escorted him to the door. "I promise you, Jonathan. You and your friend will find the answers you're looking for." "I know. It's just…" John started speaking. "You have a purpose in this life. Wherever that purpose lies, you will find it." Splinter reminded him. John looked at Splinter. "Like you, in a way, I also happen to be a man of some faith." Splinter told John, who chuckled a little at that comment, but then became serious once more. "Thank you." John said. Splinter smiled at the young and patted his shoulder and walked with him to the others, who seemed to be continuing working on the medallion and the list of names. April and Leo looked up from what they were doing and saw John and Splinter return. Leo walked towards them. "Master Splinter." Leo bowed. Splinter bowed to his eldest son and greeted him the same. Once Splinter walked away, Leo turned towards John. "So, I take it everything went well." Leo chuckled. John crossed his arms and nodded. "Mmm hmm." Leo took notice of that. "I assume he did tell you what you needed to hear?" John smiled a bit and answered the question. "Yeah. I think so." John told him. "Great." Leo said and smiled. John looked around and saw both Mikey and Ryan playing what appeared to be Halo or Call of Duty, laughing and having a good time. John formed a smile at the sight, and Leo turned towards his direction to where he saw the same thing. "They seemed to have gotten along pretty well." John smirked a little and agreed. "Seems like it." Leo then looked back at John and noticed that he had a sort of a brotherly look on his face when staring at Ryan. "He'll be ok. So will you." Leo assured John. John told him thanks, and Leo simply smiled and patted his shoulder. "Donny, any updates about the artifact?" Leo asked and he and John walked towards the lab. "Well, it's only been a few minutes since we last looked at it…" Don sarcastically said, which caused April to laugh, and John and Leo to smile. Don continued typing words in the computer, and a set of images came unto the screen, relating to the Japanese poem, an image of waves of energy that was scanning from the object itself. "The wave of energy that we scanned is clearly up for discussion about whether or not this is like insanely impossible. What we see here is the normal image of the medallion's state, but once triggered, it releases this whole transferring cycle of particles that allow a living being standing near it to be somewhere they never expected. In other words, a new place." "So, the medallion has the power to, what, like transport someone to a new place?" Leo asked with such curiosity and disbelief. "Well, not just anybody. It has to be someone who is willing enough to accept." Don carefully explained. "I'm sorry, like someone who is chosen?" April asked. "That would explain the Japanese proverb." John stated, with realization and understanding written on his face and everyone looked upon him. "And what Ryan just told me few hours ago that you guys may have been sent here because of this thing." John nodded in agreement, but Leo looked on confused. "I'm sorry, what are we talking about?" "The medallion, especially this kind, is only activated when someone, who is worthy, to be sent somewhere for the greater good." Don told the three of them, but then looked straight at John. "John, whoever made this, I think you were right. You and Ryan were brought here by someone." John opened his mouth a bit and was unable to speak. It wasn't possible, just no way.

1:25 p.m.

Camera angle switches to Anderson's car.

Diane looked out the window at all the buildings and civilians that were going through their daily lives. Alex continues driving and has somewhat of a serious tone written on his face. "So, I take it you're one of those strong and silent types, right? Like you're one of those cops who just does their jobs without questions?" Diane asked with curiosity and nervously, also hoping to break the silent and awkward tension that has become in the car. Alex just focused on the road, heading back to the station and not answering the question. Diane wasn't thrilled at how Alex just shrubbed off her question like that, but this didn't stop her. "What's it like being a cop in New York? Not just a cop but detective?" Alex looked at the rearview mirror, then back out in front to view the road. "Its rough." Alex told her. Diane nodded, and then wanted to ask another question. "I noticed that you have a wedding ring on. How long have you been married?" "Two years." Alex replied. He seemed to be focused more on the road and wanted to get back to the department as soon as possible, so any question that was asked, it was either a two-part question or did not want to answer. "That's great. She must be really lucky to have you." Diane said to him. "Is there a reason for all these questions?" Alex asked her, not irritated, but just trying to be focused on the job and on the road. "Just trying to get to know you better, Detective. No worries." "Uh huh." Alex stopped at the stop light and once it turned green, he made a left turn, to which that was the usual way back to the station. "What's the problem?" "Nothing." Alex told her. They were getting close to the station and David turned and drove to the parking lot. Once parked, the two detectives got out of the car and walked to the main entrance. "Detective." Alex stopped and turned when Diane said that. "Yeah." Alex replied back, not wanting to waste any time for investigating the case. "I just wanted to say… thanks. Normally, anyone I had to work on the case with would've want nothing to do with it, considering that I'm young and all. I am looking forward to this new working—" "Detective Adams, was it?" Alex asked her. "Yes sir. Well, people usually call me Diane." "Right." Alex smirked but then got back to the seriousness of the situation. "Here's how this whole things gonna play out. New York city is a tough place to work at, especially as a cop. We both were assigned to this case, so, whether I like it or not, I have no choice but to have you on my side. You do what I say, where I say it, and follow my lead, and we are cool. Ok?" Alex told her and reminded her. Diane smile vanished at first when he explained the situation but quickly returned the smile and nodded, noting that she understood. "Yes sir, detective." Alex looked down and up at her, and nodded back, then turned and both walked inside. Diane had a look that was saying 'That was a little unnecessary'. She was hoping things can get a little better. Maybe to prove Alex her worth and start a friendship.

Low rider- War

A little bit later, Hank, the CSI guy, was examining the sample, and was playing what appeared to be the song sung by a guy who has a low ride car and seemed to be jamming and dancing to it. Alex and Diane walked in and saw the whole thing that was going on. Diane smirked at the sight, and Alex looked weirded out. "Hank!" "Oh sh—!" Hank nearly jumped at that, turned and saw the two detectives standing there. He looked a little embarrassed and irritated. "You ever heard of knocking? Or do you just happen to appear randomly out of nowhere, scaring dudes who're getting in the groove? Knock next time, man! It ain't even that hard, you just, pow pow!" Hank made a hand motion in the air twice, pretending to knock on the door to prove a point. "That simple." "You're supposed to be working." Alex told him. "I was working until y—" Alex squinted his eyes at him, questioning if he was yelling. Hank started getting quiet and then looked at Diane, who had her arms crossed and one hand over her mouth, trying her best not to laugh. "Yeah man. I was. Just don't do that scary stuff anymore alright?" Alex chuckled at that comment. "You get anything?" "The Sample print off their boots have been basically everywhere." Hank returned to his desk and accessed the file on his laptop, which showed hidden trails. "These are the trails that we picked up from the boot at the scene. The foot ninja appeared to have been to time square and all over Manhattan, and most alleyways" "Ok, does it say anywhere else he could've gone, like any places or buildings of any kind?" Diane asked him, and this earned a somewhat hard look from Alex. "Well, the trail actually leads back to an old pier on the docks that may be where some of the foot clowns are at." "Which one?" Alex asked Hank, and Hank typed in to zoom on the computer, which pointed to an old pier dock. "There."

Meanwhile

Don's computer beeped, and everyone that was there noticed. "Donnie?" April asked. Don rushed towards the keyboard and typed it in. It was a notification from the police department. "I got a ping from the police database. It looks like, some sort of trails… which belongs to a foot soldier." "A foot soldier out in broad daylight?" Leo asked. "No, it looks like it was just from last night. Wait, I wonder if it's related to that murder case that we saw this morning." Don continued typing on the keyboard, and then a trail that led to an old pier. "What is that?" John asked him. "The last known location of a foot soldier. It seems after he murdered the couple, he came here." Don explained and was still having his eyes on the screen. "I'm starting to think that maybe Raph was right about the whole coward thing." April said. Leo silently agreed. "So, I'm guessing this is like a hideout for all the foot ninjas that scour around here." John stated. "Well, not necessarily. Like every criminal, they have to have some sort of base of operations that even the dragons may be involved in." "It would make sense. After what Casey told us and what we saw this morning, I just can't think about what they will do." Leo said. He knew both the Dragons and the foot had a similar agenda to take over New York and thought about how nothing would stand in their way. His brothers and he had tried everything to stop them, but to no avail.

Meanwhile

"Are you sure that's where are guy is?" Alex asked Hank. "Well, my baby doesn't lie. Like at all!" Hank quickly exclaimed, adding humor and sarcasm expressions. Hank walked away, not giving in with the jokes as he had no time for it. Diane took notice and followed David out back to the hall, not without saying thanks to Hank for the input. "We heading to the pier, sir?" Diane asked Alex. "Another thing that you need to know when you're with me. Don't call me sir." David grunted annoyingly at that. Diane smiled and smirked. "Yeah. Sure thing." Alex stopped and held up his hand in front of Diane. "Hey. Its not gonna be a walk in the park." "I can handle it, chief." Diane walked off and headed to the outside, leaving Alex with an unsured look. "Damn."

Meanwhile

"So, what do we do?" Don asked. "What can we do? We're not exactly a friendly sight for others who would freak even at a sight of a big green ninja talking turtle." Leo said. John thought about it for a second, and he had an idea. Maybe not one everyone was comfortable with. "Me and Ryan can check it out." Everyone looked at him in surprising. looks Even Ryan caught those words with questioning eyes. "Say what now?" I don't think that's a good idea." April exclaimed. "John, It's dangerous." Leo quickly told him. He didn't that it was a bad idea, but these two kids were young. After what happened yesterday, he thought they would've not wanted anything to do with this. "Well, we can have April or Casey come with us. Keep an eye on us, to make sure we don't do anything wrong. Me and Ryan can also take the chance to explore the city some more." Everyone looked at each other and thought about it. "It would give us more eyes out there." Don said. Leo didn't like it, but he couldn't argue with that. He turned to John, who looked like he was not backing down. "Are you sure you want to?" "We can give you guys more ground to cover. Like Don said. Besides, its… It would be our way of saying thank you. My way of saying thank you. For helping us with the search and trusting us to be here. If not, then its ok." John said quickly to everyone in that room, then looked towards Leo. "That's your call." Leo gave it another thought. He still didn't like it, putting two young boys out there in the world where it can chew them up or rip them apart, but if he thought that they can help, then, well, there was no argument to make.

Two minutes later

Don gave Both Ryan and John an earpiece that looked like a wireless phone earpiece. "These two things that you're both wearing are ear links, that is connected to the speakers I have. I was unable to test these things out, considering I have been out on patrols, but these would give me and my brothers a chance to contact one another, in case if either of us were in a pickle." "So, you're able to contact us through these two small earphones?" Ryan asked out of curiosity. "Not earphones." Don corrected. "And yes. I can call you through here." Don pointed to the small laptop he had around the corner. "You can, too. See, I rigged the sets to allow users to make an automatic signal through here. One phone call later, and there we go." "Nice." John said to him. Don smiled at the appreciated comment, and also went back to the desk to give them something else. He grabbed two scanners and handed it to John. "These scanners are used to look for any signs of DNA, footprints, or any signs of unknown hostiles. If it starts beeping- ""It means we're getting close." John said, getting the gist of what he was saying. Don nodded. "If that happens, you press the button, and that will send us the tracking signal. It will come on the screen here, which then can give us an idea where this ninja might be going next." "Huh. That's actually really cool." Ryan stated, and this earned another appreciated smile from Don. "We better get going!" Casey called out. John and Ryan and started to leave, but then Leo stopped John just for a second. "Hey." John turned around and noticed Leo was still unsure. "You don't have to do this." "I know." John said to him and smiled. "Ok." Leo couldn't change his mind, which was clear was already set. John then turned to leave, where Ryan and Casey were waiting for him. "Hurry up!" Casey said to the two of them. "Well, it looks like things are looking good for us so far, huh Johnny boy?" Ryan asked his friend. "Seems that way." The three of them then headed up to the surface. Leo stood and still watched the doorway. "I don't like it." A voice made Leo turn, and he saw Raph leaning on the wall with his arms crossed. "Yeah, you made it perfectly clear about your opinions, brother." Leo stated annoyingly. "Not that." Raph explained. Leo was then confused on what he meant. "You sure that those two can handle it?" "Well, what exactly is it that we all can do at this point? If the kids want to help, they at least deserve the chance to try." "What if something goes wrong?" Raph asked his eldest brother. "Aw, don't tell me you're concerned about them?" Don said to him. Raph gave him a look, and Don surrendered, not wanting to make things worse. Raph got back to the point he was trying to make. "I still don't think those kids are trustworthy, but still. They shouldn't have to do things like this." Leo started to smile, knowing that his brother was indeed a hothead, but still had a caring and loyal heart. "Casey's with them. Things will be ok." Raph nodded, but still was unsure. Leo walked back to go find Splinter. "Is it true?" Raph stopped Leo, which caused him to turn around again. "About the Christian boy's family?" Leo looked away and second but answered the question. "Yeah. He misses them." Leo walked away, leaving Raph gazed and to think about how "What happened to his family?" Mikey asked Don. The two of them were listening quietly to their conversation. "His family died. Car accident, it seems like." Don explained to his young brother. "Oh man. What about Ryan?" "Johns all the family he had." Mikey then became saddened and worried. "Hey cheer up. That's what we're here for." Don assured Mikey. Mikey smiled excitedly and ran back to his room. Don chuckled softly and shook his head. Knowing Mikey, he had a feeling things would get a little better for their new friends.

1:48 p.m.

Camera flies over pier

Casey drives his mustang to the pier docks, parks the car and gathers two hoodies. "Here." He hands the two hoods to the kids, one grey and one black. "Hoodies?" Ryan asked him. He usually didn't wear hoodies and had no idea why he should wear one. "Go ahead put them on." Casey smirked at Ryan's response. John and Ryan started, as Casey got out of the car and waited for them. Forty seconds later, Ryan came out first, then John. Ryan wore the grey hoodie, while John wore the black. "So, we're looking for a missing foot soldier, that I understand, but what are the hoodies for?" "I just thought you guys could use a little fashion. Besides, it helps not to reveal who you are to the public." Casey told him. "Well, why not masks? At least something like yours because well no offense, but the hoodies usually give away the face." Ryan joked sarcastically. Casey scoffed at that. "Yeah, you might wanna hold of on that until later." As they were both talking, John looked at himself in the passenger side window. He felt a strong presence near him, but could not recognize it. As he looked on, he noticed other things about his face two. One small scar was placed over his lip. 'Where did this come from?' John thought to himself. "John" C'mon man!" Ryan called out to him.

John turned and caught up with the two, still thinking about the scar. Must've got that from yesterday. "You know I was pretty surprised when the others told us we could go. This is like our official superhero job or something." Ryan said. John had to agree with that a little bit. Casey turned around and stopped in front of them. "This isn't a game, ok? If you see or spot something out of the ordinary, or someone, you tell me. Alright?" "Well, yeah." Ryan said. Casey nodded. "Ok." "What will you do?" John asked Casey. "Well, then hopefully we catch this guy before he hurts anyone else, but maybe get a chance to figure out what the hell they're up to." "I heard a lot about these guys." John said. "How they terrorize people from the dark, and what they're trained in. They seem dangerous." Casey nodded. "Nothing me or the guys can't handle ourselves." "What if we cross him or one of these dragons?" "Like I said, let me deal with it. You two are still young. You don't have to try and be a hero." "Well, you have seen us fight, right?" Ryan asked him. Casey looked at him but realized that he did have a point. "I mean, what's one scary Foot ninja soldier?" "I wouldn't say that in front of them." John said. "Look, if you see something, and I ain't around, then… you do what you need to do." "Wait it's that easy to convince?" Ryan asked, but John stopped him. "I've seen the two of you fight. Mostly you." Casey looked at John. "If you're serious, then we can discuss it later. But for now, let me deal with it. Ok?" John looked away for a second and nodded. "Yes sir." Casey turned around once more. "Ok, yeah we're with you." Ryan said. All three of them made their to the old pier, but was unable to open the door. Casey told the boys to back up a bit, walked back and started to run toward the door. The wooden door clashed and opened, while only the latch and a few wooden pieces were broken. "There." Casey stated determinedly, and the three of them continued on their way. "Alright. Let's see those bad boys work!" Casey stated. John smiled and Ryan chuckled, while they took out the scanners. "I'm going to try down over here." John said while he walked towards the other side of the area. "Stay safe!" Ryan called out. John just gave a thumbs up. Ryan smirked a little. "You guys seem protective of one another." Casey mentioned. Ryan nodded, signifying that was indeed true. Then he got the scanner ready. He wasn't that good with technology, but still followed Dons instructions. "Need help?" "I don't think so… Nope. I have it handled." Ryan smiled sheepishly. Casey just scoffed and continued looking around. "You think the police will show up while we're looking for this foot guy?" Ryan asked him. "Well, by then, we'll hopefully be long gone." Casey stated. Ryan scoffed and continued scanning around. "Alright, tell me something." Casey said. "Sure thing, Hockey man." Ryan joked, which earned a serious but also half smile expression on Casey's face. "You two have been through a lot, I'm sure." Ryan looked away for a second at that, but still listening to what he was saying. "The others seem to like you two. I'm getting there and all, but Raph… sometimes he's too damn stubborn." "Yeah. The way he was acting clearly proves it." Ryan jokingly proclaimed. Casey smirked. "He did make a few points there. What would happen if either one of you were to decide to get all eager and to turn them in? I'm not saying I agree with him, but something can happen." "True, but would be the point of it?" Ryan answered and looked away from the scanner for a second. "John's got a big heart. A heart you can't even begin to describe. I trust him." "I'm sure you guys have had differences of opinion, though." "Well, we do have disagreements and all, but… still." Ryan stated, as he was starting to explain. "When I was a kid, other people were happy to choose me as their way of what you might call 'personal game'. They wouldn't go anywhere near me, and if they did, they would do what others would with unpopular kids. Living without a dad doesn't make it right either." Ryan started to say, but stopped right there, as if he didn't want to say anything about his father yet. Casey was kneeling down but was listening to Ryan's story. "Anyway, as they kept doing their activities towards me, John stepped in. He told the others what they were doing wasn't right, and the next second, he did something I never thought anyone would do. Surprised me."

Flashback

Raton, N.M., 2006

Longfellow kindergarten school.

12:00 P.M.

A young child was sitting in a corner all by himself. In a classroom full of others that treat people differently. It was one of those moments where it would feel lonely and there was no one who would understand or be anywhere near you. "Hey Caldwell! Why did your daddy leave your mom?" One of the students called out to him, while the others laughed. "It's because he didn't love her no more!" Another student answered with smirk. "That's not true…" Ryan said silently to himself, almost to the verge of tears. Another student was sitting on the other side of the room, looking sadly at Ryan. "Alright kids, it's lunchtime. Everyone form a line and follow me to the cafeteria, ok?" A young teacher called out to the students. "Yes, Ms. Julie!" Every student, except Ryan, answered. The teacher has the students form a line against the wall, and then the bell rings. Few minutes later, young Ryan is seen sitting alone at the table in the corner. Every student is laughing and talking with each other, and Ryan just sits there alone. Just then another student came to the table, with what appeared to be a Batman lunchbox. "Hi. I saw this table was empty and was wondering—" "Don't waste your time with him! He's nothing but a loser without a dad!" A young female student said to the other and Ryan was hiding the angered tears that was forming in his eyes. The student standing looked at the others and was disappointed that kids like these didn't have any heart. He wanted to cheer Ryan up and saw a Reese's candy bar sitting there with one of the bullies. He grabbed it and this made the bully stand quickly. "Hey that's mine candy bar!" The student defending Ryan looked at the bully and smiled. "Now it's his." He assured the bully, and this made the young child sit back down, upset. "I never liked it anyway." Ryan was surprised at the whole thing and looked at the young boy who defended him. "You want to sit with me?" Why?" "No reason." The student smiled and handed him the Candy bar. Ryan eagerly took it and ate it. This was his favorite, but he didn't tell anybody that. "My family's having a Barbeque tonight. My grandparents will be there, and my dad makes the best burgers of all the neighborhood. You want to come?" Ryan was indeed surprised. "Why's he with that loser?" Ryan heard that and sat uncomfortably and with sad eyes. John took notice of the other student's conversation and glared, which made them go back to eating their lunch. "Don't listen to them. They're doofuses anyhow." Ryan laughed a little. "You don't have to defend me." He spoke with a worried and serious glare. "Maybe I just don't like bullies." The two kids laughed. "So, do you want to come? My dad said I can invite anyone." Ryan thought about it and smiled. "Yeah." The other student smiled. "I'm John, by the way." "Ryan. So, you like Batman?" Young John looked at the lunchbox and excitedly looked back up. "Heck yeah! He's one of my other favorites." As they sat there, talking about heroes and their activities, young Ryan was happy that he wasn't alone anymore. So began the long friendship in what would seem like a lifetime.

Present day

"John never did answer me why he did what he did. I'd already figured it out the answer so he wouldn't have to." Ryan told Casey this short story standing, but still on mission. Casey was intrigued by what he had heard. He couldn't understand it either. "Ever since then, I've been able to trust him. Because of what he did, I now have the courage to do what he would've done. Stand for what's right." Casey stood up and smirked. "Well… That is some story." Ryan smiled, scoffed and nod. "Yes, it is. His faith makes him who he is, not what others want him to be. I may not agree with it at times, but at the end of the day, I understand. I trust in him not only because he's my pal, but because of his heart. That guy's more trustworthy than any other guy I've met. I mean, what's trust if others aren't willing to take the chance to use it?" Casey gave that into thought. What Ryan said did make somewhat sense to him. "Any who, that's just how I see it." Ryan said and got back to scanning around.

Meanwhile, John had searched around for a bit, but there was no sign of the soldier's tracks just yet. He was starting to think about what Splinter said earlier. About how Destiny can be a hard thing to grasp. He most desperately wanted to help the others and wanted to prove his worth. "All with good timing." John said to himself. He can find the answers he was looking for, he just had to be patient. No matter where it would take them. Just then, he saw something in the dark corner where old crates lie. He walked over to that spot slowly and was prepared to defend himself but saw that it was just nothing. The scanner, however, then beeped and John did exactly what Don said to do. Even though he wasn't a technician, he remembered the instructions that was provided. A loud Clatter and thud caught John off guard. He turned to the noise and didn't see anything. Just then, he was kicked into the wall. He got up quickly and saw a man wearing a red headband, a katana sheath carrying a sword strapped across his right shoulder, grey metal sharp braces and a body armor suit that had red, black and grey coloring on the suit. He had a patch on his clothing of the same symbol that he saw in the visions. John looked at the guy, not easily threatened. "So your that ninja that killed the couple from last night, huh? I heard about you." The foot solider didn't say anything and just pulled the sword out of the sheath. "Oh boy." John said to himself.

Meanwhile

"Alright. We're here." Alex said to Diane. "Let's move." Diane was eager to bring in this guy as quickly as possible. As they got out of the car, they headed to a second pier that was across from where they saw a mustang. "Sir?" Diane nodded her head to the car across from the platform. Alex looked towards the mustang and saw nothing. "Hmm. You check here, and ill go see why this guys here for." "Detective. You can't go in alone." "I'll be fine, just go and check this place out." Alex ordered her. Diane reluctantly agreed and pulled out her Glock 17 sidearm and headed to the small shed. Alex pulled out his personal Glock 19 and headed to the main dock, hoping that things would go smoothly.

Meanwhile

"That's a very nice sword you have their. You mind telling me where you got it from?" John exclaimed, trying to ease the situation, but the Ninja was still moving towards him, spun his sword around, which made John be in defense. "No." John stated, saying that he didn't want to fight, but the masked figure wouldn't listen. The Ninja swung his sword at him, which John dodged with quick reflexes and got back to standing position. The ninja held his sword, ready to attack. John noticed a pipe on the ground and when the ninja ran towards him, John ran to the small lead pipe, slid and ducked under the sharp sword, grabbed the pipe. The ninja then tried raising his sword and brought it down to John's head, but John blocked it with the pipe, and caused a clang noise to hit Ryan and Casey's ears. "Did you hear that?" Ryan asked. Casey looked at Ryan, then suddenly realized what it was and ran towards the direction of the fight, followed by Ryan. The ninja and John continued fighting. Both fought and shouted after each blow. John blocked and dodged the ninjas attacks, as if it was nothing. The Ninja front flipped over John's head and landed on his feet. John turned quickly and blocked the low sword swing, and then managed to punch him in the face. The ninja grunted and stepped back a few paces. "I didn't want to do that, but you attacked me first. So, in reality, I did have to." The Ninja grabbed some kind of powder from his belt and tossed it in John's eyes. John grunted and took a few steps back. He couldn't see anything, and when he tried opening his eyes, all he could see was blurriness, and didn't see the attack in time. The ninja kicked John with enough force to have him flying to the wall. John tried getting back up, but the ninja picked him up by his shirt collar and held him against the wall. "Ow!" John grunted at him. "Nyūyōku wa ashi ni zokushite imasu." The ninja said with a threatening deep Japanese voice. "I barely speak Japanese!" John annoyingly and jokingly told him. He recognized the tone and language of Japan. "And I am telling you, that if you continue to interfere with our master's plans, then you shall meet your end." The ninja lifted the sword to John's throat, which John glanced down at, and hoped for the worst. "John!" Ryan ran towards the fight, grabbed the nearest small knife he found, and threw it at the ninjas arm with such force and accuracy. The ninja growled in pain and grabbed his arm. John then punched him again and caused the ninja to fall and roll on his backside. He then focused his attack on Ryan. The ninja tried grabbing the sword, but Ryan managed to jump, did a form of parkour roll, grabbed the sword and got back up to a defense pose. "Don't try it man!" The ninja was unimpressed and leapt towards him. He quickly disarmed the Sword by grabbing Ryan's wrist and twisted first to the left, then forward. The ninja was about to break Ryan's arm, when John forward kicked and got in front of Ryan protectively. "You alright?" "Yeah." Casey caught up to them and saw the foot ninja sheath his sword and quickly tried to get away. He ran towards him and noticed that he was already on the move. Before he jumped out of the window, the ninja turned to the three of them once more. "Your first and final warning. Bow before us or you will die." Then he leaped out of the window. "Damn." Casey said, and then turned to the two boys. "Let's go! Come on!" The three of them turned to the nearest exit, hoping to catch the ninja before he vanished into thin air.

Meanwhile

Alex saw the ninja leap out of the window of the Main pier and aimed his gun at the ninja as he got closer in range. "Police!" Alex called out, and the ninja turned to the sound of the voice. As the detective aimed the gun, he noticed the ninja stood very still. Didn't know if the masked figure was planning an attack, or if he was complying with the officer. "Don't move. I won't hesitate." The ninja turned around to look at him, and Alex had a feeling something was up. Alex moved closer and had the gun trained on him. Diane got out of the other pier just in time to see the whole thing. Alex saw her, and shook his head, telling her "No. Stay right there." Diane had a serious and worried look but did not engage. "You're under arrest! Don't even try to run!" Alex told the masked figure. Then the ninja threw two smoke pellets at the now pissed Detective Anderson and his partner and disappeared as soon as the clouds started to clear. Alex and Diane both looked around and saw the ninja gone. Alex saw three people heading out the main building and shouted towards them. "Hey!" All three looked at the detective calling out to them but continued on to the vehicle. "Who's that?" Ryan asked. "Get in the car, Now!" Casey raised his voice, and all three got into the car. Alex and Diane tried approaching as fast as they could, but the car was already away. "Who the hell were those people?" Diane asked with confusion and apparently, Alex couldn't give her an answer.

"Holy crap!" John remarked. "You kid's alright?" Casey asked as he was driving. "Yeah. We're fine." John answered. "What the hell happened to your eyes?" Ryan asked from the back seat. "That Ninja! He just… he threw some kind of powder in my face, and then I can barely see anything." John told him, and just stared straight forward. "Powder?" Casey asked him. "Yeah." John answered with frustration. "Huh." "Theres no way we're going to find this guy now. He's most likely gonna kill someone else if we don't go looking." Ryan was worried about what would happen next. "Yeah I know. I know." Casey still drove, but John could tell something was on his mind. "We shouldn't have had you two do this. It's not safe." "It was our call." John told him. "Yeah, and you almost died. What about you?" Casey asked Ryan, who then looked confused on the matter. "Me?" "You started running after that ninja like you were damn superman." Casey looked at him in the rearview mirror. "If you think I'm gonna sit back when my best friends had a twelve-inch sword to his throat, then I don't think there's anything we have to talk about." Ryan explained. He then looked out the window to his thoughts. Casey had to agree with that, but to an extent. John had one thought that didn't go away. "You threw a knife?" John asked. This made Ryan look up in the front seat. "It was just instinct. I don't know." Ryan told him. John looked at his side of the window and started to think about what just happened. He felt there was more to what Ryan just described.

2:05 p.m.

Harlem

Johnny knew New York's lost its way and saw that there was not living soul that deserved to live. As he saw Dragonface performing a deal with another street level thug from the car, Johnny couldn't help but wonder if he could be ever trusted again. He got his answer when Hun appeared in his caller i.d. contact list. He pressed the green button on his cell. "How is it?" "Fine boss. It's going real dandy in the moment." "I have a job for you." Johnny was now interested and sat up from the front seat. "Boss?" "Come by the base when you're finished." The phone call ended, and Johnny just looked at his phone. He now had a Devilish grin on his face. He opened the front door and shouted at Dragonface, telling him to be quick with the deal, or in his way of saying; "Hurry the hell up!" As Dragonface closed the deal and made his way to the car, Johnny stared eagerly at the window. Both made their way back to the base of operations which took at least a five- or ten-minute drive to where they were at. It certainly seemed fast for Johnny. Few minutes later both entered the office and saw Hun standing there, with a glass of whiskey with ice in his hand. "You're back." Hun said as he put the glass down. He turned to the two leaders, where Johnny felt that's something else was off. "I need to speak with Menendez." Dragonface looked at Johnny and Hun in confusion but listened to the order and walked out to the main hall. Johnny walked towards Hun's desk, not knowing what to expect. "I have decided to not hold it against you for the troubles that happened." Hun told Johnny, who was surprised at the sudden change of view Hun had. "Wow. Thank you, boss. That really means—" "But the next time this ever happens, I'll be sure that your ass doesn't see prison!" Hun interrupted Johnny, who jumped at the sudden outburst. Johnny nodded quickly, and Hun got back to his composure. "Not only have I decided to not hold it against you, I also am granting you a chance to prove yourself once again." Johnny then looked at Hun with interest. "Really?" Hun confirmed his answer with a nod. "You and Dragonface have the chance to prove yourself tonight. My masters plan for this city must be fulfilled. Understand?" Johnny wanted desperately to prove his loyalty to Hun and the Dragons. Even if it means taking all of New York to its last population. "What do you need me to do?" Hun smiled at his answer, knowing that his master would be pleased and that his plan would be fulfilled.

2:15 p.m.

The lair

Everything was quiet in the sewers. The only thing that was now heard were the sounds of 6 feet walking to the wooden door. Casey, Ryan and John were still recovering from their previous encounter with the Ninja, and it did not bode well for Casey. The hidden entrance to the lair opened and revealed everyone doing their original things. Leo, Don, Splinter and April were still at the lab, examining old files and Purple Dragon files, while Raph and Mikey were in the living room, both watching T.V. Raph being on the couch and Mikey sitting on the floor. "Hey guys! We got those notifications you sent us and are now trying to triangulate—" Don started to say when he noticed the three of them entering the lair, but Casey interrupted. "Yeah, that's great Don, but we have enough problems at the moment!" Everyone stared at Casey's sudden outburst and headed to where the three of them were standing. "What has happened?" Splinter asked him, hoping to calm the situation. "What happened is that we nearly got our asses whooped by that Friggin Ninja!" "What?" Mikey exclaimed, and April shouted Casey's name, reminding him not to use that kind of language in Splinter's home. "He was there like you guys said and attacked John first." At the mention of his name, John crossed his arms over his chest and was prepared to explain what had happened. "What?" April looked at John with a worried type of motherly look. "Are you serious?" Don asked him. "He tried fighting back, for the record. Just pointing that out right there." Ryan told everyone, hoping to take some of the heat of John. "Yeah, until he had a sword up to his neck." Casey said. "For real?" Ryan looked at Casey like he wasn't helping the situation felt easier. "Casey, I'm sure they're alright." "April, if I wasn't there, he would've—" "But you were. And they're ok." April tried to remind him. She knew that Casey was worried about their safety but had to be reminded to keep a calm mind at times. "Sure." Casey replied back silently. "How did that happen? And why are your eyes red like you just got off of drugs?" Raph asked John. "I was ok until he threw some kind of powder in my face." John explained to all of them. "Powder?" Leo asked him. "Yeah. He grabbed it from his belt and threw it at me, which caused me to be nearly blind." "Are you sure?" Splinter asked him. "Mmm Hmm." John answered. "See, that's what I don't get how does powder like that make someone nearly lose their sight?" Ryan started to say, and Leo answered the question right away. "It's because it wasn't just powder at all. It's a tool that was used in Japan a long time ago to make their opponents lose sight of them. This powder is currently known as Metsubushi." "I knew I recognized that substance from somewhere." John whispered, but was loud enough for Leo to hear, where he formed a half smile at his response. "But wait, wasn't this used by Samurai in Feudal Japan?" John asked. "Yes. The Samurai were one of the most important warriors in all of history. When confronted by an enemy, they would use it to blind and have the opportunity to run and hide, or to arrest them if given the chance." "Ok, I get that from what I read the foot existed nearly a long time ago, but still how would they be able to find Metsubushi?" Splinter also had to wonder clearly about this but would worry about this later. "Only time and answers will come, young one." Splinter assured John, who had to agree, even if it still didn't make sense.

"Maybe we can figure it out if you don't die in the process. I told you to let me handle it back there!" Casey nearly raised his voice, not angry at the two of them, but was still worried for their safety. "Hey, you told us that we could fight back if we had no other option and if you weren't around. Plus, John had a sword up his throat, so I wasn't going to stay back and do nothing." Ryan reminded Casey, who opened his mouth to say something, but realized that Ryan was partially right of what he said. He would talk about it later. "How did you guys fend him off then?" Mikey asked him. "I ran after them, found a knife and threw it at the Ninjas hand." Ryan answered and then was looked at by everyone in the room. "A knife?" Don asked. Ryan looked back in confusion. "Yeah?" He started to say slowly. "That knife wasn't even weighted properly and yet you threw like it was nothing across a 15ft room." John stated with curiosity in his eyes. "Well, I was just lucky, I guess. I'm sorry what's the problem?" Ryan was now wondering why everyone was looking at him weird. John looked at Splinter and Leo. "Do you guys happen to have a bow and some arrows, by chance?" Leo looked at Splinter, who signaled his eldest to go ahead and answer. "Yeah. Of course." Leo went on to go look for a bow and some arrows in the dojo, while John asked Mikey if he had a tennis ball. "Got it, dude!" Mikey exclaimed and went to go look for that while John looked for other items. 'What're ya up to, kid?" Raph asked John with an angered and stern glare. "Just want to test something out." John answered, ignoring the intense situation that Raph was trying to cause. John had a theory that he wanted to try out. "Test Ryan for what?" April asked him. John was about to answer when Leo came back, holding what seemed to be a recurved shape bow, fit and sizeable enough for someone like Ryan. "Here you go. It's the only one I found in there." John looked at it, saw that this would work. "Thanks." John casted a smile in gratitude and made his way back to where Ryan was standing. "Um. Johnny boy. What is this?" John just smiled and then started to speak. "Do you remember your training with the Bow and arrow?" "Yeah, but what does have to do with this?" John didn't answer Ryan's question because he wanted to have him figure it out himself. John told everyone to stand behind Ryan and found two other items for him to use. A tennis ball, coffee mug and some tool from Dons lab area. John then stood about at least ten feet from where Ryan was. "You ready?" John asked his best friend, who finally got the idea what John was trying to. "Yeah." "What are you trying to do?" April asked with curiosity. "I'm going to throw these things in the air, and Ryan will shoot them with one arrow." John explained to everyone. April was indeed confused. "What? You can't be serious?" Raph just laughed and shook his head. John got the items ready and threw them into the air. First thing he grabbed was a coffee cup. "Are you sure this is the best way to—" Don started asking, but John already threw the coffee cup in the air, and Ryan quickly drew an arrow and shot it, which made a metal clink sound when the arrow made impact. "Whoa." Ryan whispered to himself, and John got the second item ready, while Ryan did the same thing. John threw Dons tool again, and Ryan drew the arrow quickly and made his shot. Ryan could not believe it. As he saw John grab a tennis ball, he wanted to try something new this time. John opened his hand, revealing that the ball was in his hand. Ryan grabbed the arrow quickly off the table, aimed at the ball, shot and the ball quickly left John's hand and hit a practice dummy right in the chest. John turned towards Ryan with an impressed smile on his face. "Dude!" Mikey exclaimed excitedly, while everyone was a little speechless. "Ok. I guess that's kinda cool." Raph said, breaking the moment of silence. "What the shock." Ryan said. "Did I just—" "You shot three of these items faster than you previously did back home." "Yeah, I noticed that, but how—" Ryan started to say. "What's happening to you now is what's going on with me. Change." Ryan widened his eyes. "The medallion." Leo replied in realization. "Mm hmm." John answered. "So, what you're saying is that you guys have like, what, powers all of a sudden?" Casey asked him. "I don't think so." John said. "Well, somehow I suddenly feel different." Ryan exclaimed. "Well, I don't know for sure, but I think we can find out." Don told all of them.

A few minutes later, everyone gathered around the table and tech equipment that Don was using. Don was getting a few needles out for blood tests, or transfusion, something you would see at a hospital. "You're going to blood test us?" Ryan asked. "Yeah man. You have nothing to worry about, I just need both samples so we can figure out what's happening with you two." "I'm not worried." Ryan told him. "This just reminds me of something I saw in a show, which seemed fun." "Yeah?" Don asked, forming a smile. "It wouldn't happen to be Greys anatomy, right?" "No." Ryan quickly said. "Well… Just one episode." John smiled and tried not to laugh at that remark. "Alright." Don told them and prepared the needles. He walked to John first, who had his short sleeve rolled up. "Don't flinch." Don told the two of them. He stuck the needle into John's arm, and while it stung a little, John handled it. "Alright, you're good." Don said and proceeded on to Ryan and performed the same procedure. "All done." John and Ryan stood from their chairs, while Don walked over to the tech equipment, careful not to drop any of their blood samples on the floor. He quickly analyzed the samples into his microscope and saw there was no change. 'Hmm.' Don thought to himself. When he finished, he downloaded the screening of the samples to the computer screen, where everyone could see. "Wow. So that's what our DNA looks like?" "You act like you haven't seen it before." Raph said to Ryan. "That's because that's true." Ryan quickly told him. "This is what your DNA looks like." Don explained to both John and Ryan. "It doesn't look any different." John said. "You're right. Both of your guy's DNA hasn't shown any signs of change at all." "Then how's it possible they could do the things they do now?" Leo asked. Don just shrugged. "No clue." Ryan looked at John in confusion, when John immediately thought about if God's hand was in all of this. 'Lord, what's happening?' He couldn't tell for sure, but he felt something had to do with God, and his path to whatever he was called on.

3:00 p.m.

N.Y.P.D. building

"As if I didn't have enough problems already!" Captain Astin was sitting stood from his desk, as Alex and Diane. The captain called them back after the whole propaganda that had occurred at the pier, and they both could tell that he was indeed not happy. "I get a dispatch call from one of the officers working down on his shift, tellin me that one of those foot nutjobs wearing tight fit pajamas. And you're telling me that he was able to get away from you two, using what? A Smoke bomb?" "Yes Sir. We both nearly arrested the suspect, but he was hard for us to handle." Diane told him. Alex didn't know why Diane insisted on talking. He practically handled everything, but now his "new partner" was willing to now be the one to handle this situation, and normally, rookies wouldn't be allowed to do that. "Whys that? Cause he was, and oh let me answer this for you, too fast?" As the Captain said this, he sat down on his chair, crossed his legs on the desk. Diane didn't answer right away, but when she did, Diane felt a little guilty. "Yes. He was." "Look sir, we knew that he had to be there." Alex said, trying to stand up for her. "Yeah, you two knew. So what?" "That means we can try to find another way to track him down. Whoever he is and wherever hideout he came from, we'll find this guy." Alex explained, hoping to ease the situation by confirming that they at least had an idea where to start. "But you already lost that chance!" The Captain firmly reminded him. "Not unless if there's more evidence." Alex said, and this had the captain back down a little. "You said so yourself that officer was on his shift, maybe he had saw which direction the ninja went to." The captain had no choice but to agree with that. "Ok. If that's what you think, fine. Make sure to have a full report in by the end of the day. Go on. Get out." Alex and Diane knew that this was their time to leave, so they did what they were told. "Well, that was intense." Diane took the liberty to speak. "You're welcome." Alex smugly said to her. "I didn't need you to help me." Diane told him. "One thing you need to understand while working here, don't give in to the intensity. You have to just deal with it." Alex firmly explained to her. "What are we going to do now?" Diane asked him, and Alex just nearly shrugged her question off. "Our job." "No, I'm serious." Diane grabbed Alex's arm, causing him to turn to face her. "This city. I never thought it was this bad." "Yeah, well what'd you expect when you decided to transfer from Detroit." Alex turned quickly back around and kept walking. "Hey, I came here to serve and protect the law. The way it stands, those very bad people only makes me want to bring them down." Diane said eagerly and defensively. "Line forms behind me." "But I see the same look you have, too." Alex then stopped. He turned once again to face Diane, not knowing what she meant by that comment. "The look that tells me that maybe, and sometimes, even the law can't be enough." Alex then scoffed, but not because he didn't agree, but that he did agree. There was no denying it. "Maybe its… I don't know. These people need something besides the law to have hope in." "What, you want the whole community to come together? Sing songs and hold hands?" Alex jokingly asked. "No, but you know what I mean." Alex knew and believed that she was right. For the new cop in the city, she seemed to understand a little. "This city does need saving. The question is who would brave enough to do it?" Alex answered and walked back out of the building, leaving Diane behind, thankful that she wasn't the only one who thought this way.

7:35 p.m.

Purple Dragon Headquarters.

Camera angle files over New York, Sunset is forming, signaling that it is nighttime now.

Hun was anxious, to be considering. He knew of his master's plans, and was certain that things would go accordingly well, but there may have been a few things he would care to discuss and ask. He waited a long time for this moment to pass. If the plans worked well, he would be in control of all of New York. As he took another drink of whiskey, he felt a familiar presence. A man stepped out of the shadows, which was the same foot ninja that was at the Pier. "What is it?" Hun asked. "Our Master wishes to speak with you." The ninja replied back. Hun nodded and formed a smugged, devilish grin on his face.

7:35 p.m.

The Lair.

Meanwhile

A few hours later, Ryan was still a little bit confused about what had just transpired. He had got done doing all the things that he wanted to try out with Mikey, and then dec Hearing the things that he had heard about how the medallion was suddenly, he doesn't even know, the main source to their arrival and that it somehow enhanced everything they were taught by John's father. "Whoa." "Yeah. Our theory was somewhat correct." John told him, with Leo and Don and April sitting around the lab. "Yeah, but I mean… like this is so weird." Ryan said again, and again John had to agree. "This artifact contained a proverb, that simply should've been found in some sort of museum or buried underground. But it was sent to you?" Leo also couldn't believe it. "Yes." Both John and Ryan said at the same time. Leo nodded. "Who would have it sent to you?" "The better question is where they would know how to find us?" Ryan answered. "Great. As if things couldn't get any weirder." April stated, sarcastically, which earned a small laugh from both boys. Just then, the computer just beeped, which had Don turn pretty quickly. "Well, maybe not weird, but definitely crazy!" Raising his voice, Don typed quickly and brought the tracking signal online. "Looks like our beloved foot ninja is on the move again!" "Where?" Leo asked him. Raph, Casey, Mikey and splinter were nearby when they had heard Don call out to them. "Somewhere on… um… Murray Hill?" "That's near the Empire State building." Raph stated. "Why the shock would they want to go there?" Ryan asked. Everyone, except John, who had just closed his eyes and shook his head, then turned, confused, at Ryan? "Shock?" Casey asked. "Yeah, it's this thing that I just did, which sounded cool in my head." Don and April rolled their eyes with a smile on their face. "Well, I mean, he's right. There's no way that Ninja could just be out of the open for no reason, so why's he in that general area?" Casey then replied. After a few seconds, Leo suddenly realized what exactly was there in Murray hill. "The Dragons." Everyone was now speechless. "That news report from this morning and what the Ninja told you earlier. Whatever it is, it involves both the foot and Dragons." "One of the Dragons hideouts is in Murray Hill." Don said. Leo nodded. "Which means that Hun will most likely be there." Casey said in a small gruffed voice. He now had a look of hatred and anger on his face "Hun?" Ryan asked. "He's the leader of the crime organization of Purple dragons. And the guy who killed my father." Casey told him. Both John and Ryan looked at each other and felt bad now. "Sensei, whatever they're up too, we have to be there." Leo turned to Splinter, who seemed to be in great thought of what can happen. He knew the costs and sacrifices his sons would make in order to protect those who they don't know. There was no other choice. "Very well." Leo nodded in gratitude, then turned to his brothers. "Gear up."

Two minutes later, the turtles now had their weapons in place, even Casey, and were still gathering items in place, while listening to Leo give them instruction. "Alright, so we know that this man, Johnny Menendez is the one who is in charge of the Murray Hill territory. He's been shipping weaponry and drugs down there, so we know what to expect." Everyone understood. "Now, we don't the whole thing of the foots involvement with this, but whatever it is, we bring them down. Understand?" "Yeah, yeah, whatever let's just go." Raph said impatiently. "Ok." "Wait, wait. What are we supposed to do?" Ryan asked them. Everyone then turned to Leo, who had already made a decision. "I think it would be best if you two stayed here." "What do you mean stay here?" Ryan then became annoyed and frustrated. Even John was a little confused. "If this is about what happened at the pier, we're ok." "It's not me that doesn't have a problem with you." Leo told him. Ryan looked around then saw Casey acting all weird. "Are you kidding me?" "Look. What we're doing is dangerous, and we don't need any body else running around getting in the way or messing things up. No offense." Ryan was about to say something, but Raph interrupted. "That is something we can both agree with." "But we won't." Ryan told him. Raph then scoffed and looked at John. "That's not what it looks like where I'm standing." John saw something else in his eyes. "Ok. Raph just go with the others." Leo calmly told him. Raph rolled his eyes and walked to the exit. "Sorry dudes." Mikey sadly exclaimed. John smiled at him but didn't say anything. Don looked back, just waved and started to catch up with his other brothers, while Leo stayed behind. Before he left, Leo turned to John. "I think everyone deserves a chance. No matter what others think." Leo said to him, while John didn't say anything. Leo patted his shoulder and then joined his brothers, leaving John to his thoughts. 'What was that about?'. "This is ridiculous!" Ryan exclaimed, which John turned towards to. "I'm sure we can figure something out." April quietly told him. "Trust me what I tell you that this is something that I think this is best." Casey said. "I told you that was our choice." "It was the wrong one. You two are still young." Casey, nearly raising his voice, had no problem telling him how the situation was. "Listen Jackass, you have no idea what me and John had to go through!" "What'd you just say?" Casey walked towards him, defensively. "Casey…" April quietly said and stopped him. "Me and John lost our families nearly two years ago…" "Ryan." John tried getting his attention, but it didn't work. "And we've protected each other from nearly anyone that came ever against us, and I made a promise that I wouldn't let anyone…" "Ryan?" John tried again, but Ryan continued rambling. "So don't you think for one second that we have no clue what you're dealing with, because we're capable of fighting, even if you're too stubborn to see that!" "Ryan!" John then shouted, which made Ryan turn quickly. "What?" Ryan asked with an annoyed voice. John glanced towards everyone in the room. "Talk to you for a second?" John walked to a nearby quiet room, where Ryan was hesitant to follow, but didn't argue and followed John. Splinter then walked back to the dojo, while April and Casey stayed where they were. "You need to stop that." "Stop what? I'm protecting them whether they can see it or not." April didn't agree with that but didn't say anything more and walked away. Casey then headed up with the others.

Ryan really wasn't in the mood to talk, but John needed to discuss thing with him. "What's going on with you?" John asked. Ryan was starting to get defensive. "I just want to be able to help fight." "Then I think we should stay." Ryan couldn't believe that John was taking their side. 'Are you kidding?" "Ryan, I get that you're desperate in wanting to help people, and you want to be a hero and save lives, but I also think that the best thing we can do right now is to just remain here, where its safe and we're not in over our heads." John explained. Ryan tried arguing, but to no avail. John noticed something was indeed wrong. "What?" "it's just the rules keep changing, man!" Ryan told him. "One minute we're ordinary teenagers. The next, we're in a universe where talking turtles actually exist. And now we're what, two people who were all of a sudden chosen by some medallion that was sent to us by no one we know, enhanced our skill sets from our training and now we can't even do anything to help?" John agreed with a portion and waited until Ryan had to say what he had to say. "I just never thought I would be chosen for something that can be one of the great things that happened, but now I feel more useless than I've ever been in my entire life." "That part I understand." John assured him. "But try to look at it from their perspective." Ryan was now listening. "We are just kids, ok? And because of that, we're more likely to get caught up into bad situations where we can either get hurt or killed in the process." "But we know how to fight." Ryan reminded him. "Yeah, a few handful of guys. Ryan, what they were telling us this doesn't seem like a typical gang. The thugs from yesterday were willing to kill us without hesitation, so they weren't wrong to think that we couldn't try to handle it. "They're right about that." Ryan did not know what to say. "But you're not wrong either." John stated, and this made Ryan look at him again. "I'm not?" "Look, do you remember when my Dad was training us? How he would tell us that God uses the bad things to bring out the good things." Ryan then got a gist of what he was getting at. "Things happen for a reason." "Exactly. Why do you think we're here?" John asked him. Ryan had to give it a lot of thought but couldn't find an answer and shrugged. "I don't know." "To help fight. Like you said, we want to do whatever we can to help. I agree with you on that, but you have to remember that they have been trained. They're still currently training, but they have more experience then we do. And unless if we have a plan, its best to just stay here for now." "But how will we know? They can't save this city alone." Ryan told him. While John did agree, he also had to be patient. "Sometimes, we just have to have faith and trust." John answered. "Well I'm having a hard time trusting in God right now." John understood. "Well do you trust me?" Ryan took a moment to think about that question. He already knew the answer. "More or less." Ryan laughed a little at what he said. John just looked at him seriously, but he knew Ryan was joking. Ryan knew since that day when they were kids, he would do anything to protect his friend. He did trust him. With his life. "Yes." Ryan nodded. John started to smile, knowing that he would indeed say yes. "Yes, I trust you." "Ok. Ok, so what we do now is wait and figure out what it is we're to do." "Ok." John nodded, confirming that Ryan did now understand. He walked out to find splinter and April. "You know, I have said it before, but your dad seriously was a wise guy." John turned and smiled. "Most of the time." John stated. Ryan stayed where he was for a second, hoping that the timing would come soon. Whatever path that came their way though, no matter how frustrating it was to understand, he would trust his best friend. All the way to the end.

Hey guys! Me again! I know it's been a while, but things have happened with my car, then school started, but I have been still working on this story and will continue working on it. I have been working slowly but surely, so expect more content. The next one will be epic, and there's going to be a whole lot of action involved. The birth of two hero's is almost here. Remember, things will happen when you least expect it, even in places you've never been to. Don't forget to review and comment, make sure you drop a like on this. Love y'all 3000 and I will see you in the next chapter! 😊