Rin and Kair`Ral Side by Side

-A Seeing the Truth A Hearing of Lies-

The class found themselves bowing respectively in front of Master Armstrong in agreement. "Now then in this building class I will be your future… I will be what makes you all great. Before you entered here tonight you were on a path to nowhere and through your training with me my students you are all been put on a path that will ultimately lead you each and everyone of you to greatness.' He surveyed the room, looking for the strong and casting out the weak. 'In time my students you will have to make that choice." Arnold would see Joe to be a good teacher, but that he would also ruled his class firmly so that Joe would inevitably gain the best results.

Shiro had ventured top-side in hunt for clan activity, however the rodent comes across one of Joe's flyer's pined to a side ally lamppost and made out the sign of the clan in the back ground in the design of the poster, Shiro would hide on the roof of the building looking down in hopes of seeing a sign of the clan's presents.

Shiro then sports a man in the corner, his face seemed to be wrapped up in a scarf; which half covering his face. Shre`Ard stood in front of dojo's name Kathan Dojo. "No doubt it's Saki, doing the same trick as Shibano did all those years ago. It seems nothing truly changes, and so no doubt this teacher is under some hold to the clan as was Kenshin!' Shre`Aed surveyed the room looking for students to approach, but Shiro knew that he could not just approach these young teams in his new form to guide them away from Saki's lines and schemes.

'For now I must watch these teens and their master's teachings in hopes not full under Shre`Ard's shadows!"

Three months later young Arnold gains the skills of Karate under the tutelage Joe Armstrong and Hockey through the coaching of John Frankford. Arnold looked up and trusted both of his coach and his master; Arnold would listen to Joe state all the time. "You are all my students and I've trusted upon you the ways of karate, not for mind or mere soul, but for you to be skilled in body and violence. That is what my teaching must be used for!"

"Seek out your battles in the field my students and seek them out well, as they will build you and break you!"

At school a few days later, the group bullies; Hunter, Bow and Rob had kept on at Arnold all day long, calling him names, pushing him around and tripping him over. One of Mason Hunter's gang Bow had truly gone too far; he waited for Arnold to come into sight Bow then rushed up the staircase and pushed Arnold backwards. Arnold fall half way down a flit of stairs. Luckily for Arnold his bag had broken his fall. By the end of the school day when the sound of the bell echoed through the halls Arnold had truly had just about enough of Mason and his gang.

Later that night after a great hockey lesson Arnold was walking back home through his neighbourhood and there standing on the corner of his street were Mason and the others. Adrenalin quickly filled his entire body; it was his moment to fight.

He suddenly broke into a run right for the bullies; forging forward of Joe's words. 'Seek out your battles in the field my students and seek them out well, as they will build you and break you!'

Mason looked up first then followed by the others as they first heard Arnold's footsteps; Mason saw him and looked into his eyes. His lackies were getting ready to mock the boy, but Arnold struck first. Mason was ultimately caught off guard, the lead bully truly wasn't expecting it and staggered back; Mason howled in torment.

Arnold could feel his heart racing inside his chest. 'This is it no turning back.' Arnold thought as he heard Mason cry out.

"Oh you should have thought this one through Jones, now you life is over!" through this mad attack; Mason having just seconds to get his hands up to protect his face.

Arnold kept on at Mason with further lefts and rights, but then out of the corner of his eye Arnold caught a glimpse of Mason's two friends moving stealthily behind him to try and grab him off Mason. Arnold chose that moment to again strike first, he hit Rob with a good left hook and then moved in with a sharp fast right gab. Arnold then dropped into a crouching stands and swept one outstretched leg around behind him. His foot caught the attackers ankle and yanked his feet from beneath him.

Rob pitched backward, arms flailing there was no way he could stop himself and he smacked his head on the hard slab pavement. Arnold stood up, he had a smile on his face; he didn't dare pause to allow his other attacker Bow the chance to strike.

Mason had slowly started to make a move once again, he looked up to see Bow coming in to hit Arnold; who quickly twisted around as Mason's second comrades swooped in, he was just in time to throw him over his shoulder in a take down throw. The attacker flew over Arnold's shoulder and down to the floor hard in a daze; Bow was forced to look up at Arnold in defeat.

Within this distraction Mason was able to get back up on his feet fully ready to kill Arnold. Arnold acted fast and he swung with a right fist fast and hard. Arnold had delivered him a sharp punch to the jaw; it was powerful enough to knock him out. Mason looked down and stared at the river of blood that had appeared out of his nose and mouth. He spat out a few teeth and collapsed to the ground. 'What do I do, this punk kid could kill me.' But then lucky for him the answer came; Mason blinked a few times and through the pain he could see the figure a familiar face.

The fight however had been seen by Arnold's master Joe Armstrong, who didn't look truly happy; has Arnold's eyes met his gaze. "What have I always told you my students? I'VE ALWAYS TOLD YOU ALL FROM THE VERY START OF MY CLASSES THAT NO ONE SHOULD EVER USE MY TEACHING FOR COMBAT WITH MIND AND SOUL; YOU TWO HAVE CLEARLY FORGOTTEN ABOUT THE BODY AND VIOLENCE!" he shouted out holding up his fist in anger at Arnold. Arnold lowered his head and steadied his fists. "I had always hoped that was understood by all of you!" he ended stepping in and pulled Arnold from off Mason stopping the fight.

Arnold looked around, he realised that Joe was in fact also talking to Mason and the others, and to Arnold's shock they replied, "Yes Master Khan!" As he replied "Yes Master Armstrong, I… I am truly sorry!"

"Arnold don't you ever dare utters the word sorry to me again! In my point of view I consider sorry as a sign of weakness. I had always hoped that you my student weren't weak and in time I could show you the ways to be one of the Shibano Ni clan.' Arnold tried to butt in to get his point of view across, but his teacher wasn't willing to listen. 'Clearly through your words and actions here today you have shown me otherwise; I see it now that you are nothing more than a weakling. Mason had told me this from the very beginning not to waste my time and effort on you, sadly however I did not listen." He ended by casting a nodded to Mason.

Arnold is shocked to find out that the boy Mason Hunter has also being taught karate from Joe Armstrong too. However because of the power Joe as over Arnold, he was still determined to gain his approval. "Master Armstrong no I most definitely aren't weak nor a wast of time! Please master I can prove myself to you again! Really I can.' replied Arnold hoping upon hope. 'Come master I ask of you give me one last chance to prove that Mason is damn well wrong!"

The karate teacher shook his head at Arnold. "No; we both know that there are no second chances Arnold. My teachings are for the strong and mighty to follow; so with that said Arnold my classes for you are over damn you.' Master Armstrong shook his head in response. 'You have clearly shown your true colours tonight boy. I don't like how you think and fight, you truly serve no other purpose for me Jones."

Arnold's jaw instantly dropped open, when to his surprise he saw his master walk over and stand by Mason and the other's side. A wide knowing grin fell across Mason's face as Joe placed a hand firmly on his shoulder. Arnold truly felt sick to his stomach to discover that the bully Mason Hunter has also being taught karate from Joe Armstrong.. "Come now Mason we have work to take clear of. Shre`Ard will soon call us to a meeting; to set up a mission for you newest of Shibano Ni clan soldiers, tonight you have truly embrace your new found meaning in life!"

Mason pulled out of his pocket a black hood and pulled it over his face; the mask covering his every feature. Arnold could just see a tattoo slightly protruding from his neck; Mason then wrapped around his forehead a purple cloth. "This is body and violence Arnold remember it well!" and with that Joe stepped forward and actually raised his leg kicking Arnold down to the ground and they without another word walked away. His former master didn't see Arnold as a threat and Arnold could see that, because if Joe had then he would have probably had him killed where he stood.

A few months after that faithful night Arnold's world would started to crumble further; he came home one afternoon after school to help his father out at the Jones' new shop Arnold had gotten there a little early; there to his sickening shock bare witness to his father Cody willingly handing over money to a number of clan soldiers; his father looked scared.

The head of the group of purple dragon's laughed. "We'll be seeing you for now, and hey its a nice store you have here! It truly is, but know this we'll be in touch very soon for further payments. Our master will be pleased to give you our protection." and together the group walked away; with the mask on the voice was muffled Arnold couldn't make out who it was.

Cody turned away and re-entered his store to see his son standing in the back door way of the store. "What the hell is going on here dad?" Arnold asked as he came to his father's side.

"Hold your tongue son!" snapped his father as he placed a hand firmly on his son's shoulder.

"No this is madness, what do they mean by protection... Why does your store need protecting?"

Cody actually lowered his gaze. "Look around you this store is all we have, I truly had no other option."

"No other option, come off it dad!' Arnold felt let down and disappointed by his father's actions, he needed to know if his dad truly know what he was doing. 'Do you not know who they are... Do you know who you're really paying!?" he called out to his father. His father nodded in return to his surprise, Arnold was about to explode, he turned his back on his father and ran out the back and headed into the alleyway.

His father ran out after him; Cody called out to him. "Son this is damn madness come back... Return back inside," but Arnold wasn't about to stop. As he raced down the alleyway Arnold just caught a glimpse of the last member turning left and had decided that he had no other choice but to follow them, so he quickly ran after them to track them down.

Arnold stayed close; the group in the shadows had led him to Joe; the person Mason had openly called Khan, anger filled Arnold's head and heart as he saw Mason pulling off his mask and hand over his father's money to Khan. "Lucky me. I've got what I wanted."

Arnold stepped forward to confront Khan. "Give it back! That money his my father's; he was mistake when he handed it over... We want it back."

Khan turning to face Arnold; he merely stock his head and laughed. "You don't belong here Arnold, even your father knows the new power that rules this city." His former karate master then clicked his fingers; Arnold saw that there were more figures in the shadows and he was surrounded.

Mason, Bow and Rod stepped forward. "I have been waiting for this day to come around!" stated Mason; Arnold was suddenly grabbed from behind by the strong thugs Bow and Rod before he could act.

Arnold kicked his feet and pulled back as he struggled to get free, but it was truly no good; they held him up as Khan stood proudly over Arnold and looked him right into the eyes. "There are greater things at work here boy and so I think that it would be better for you Arnold if you leave well alone."

Arnold spat in his face; Khan wiped his face clean. "Just wake up will you see the true powers and feel the new ways of the real world."

Arnold again tried to struggle free; "Have them let me go Joe then you'll feel first hand a power!" snapped Arnold. Mason stepped forward and punched him hard in the stomach.

Arnold scrambled to his feet Bow and Rod tried to step in and tried to grab hold of him once again, but Arnold was too quick; he ducked under Rob's arms and dogged Bows pounce and runs away. "We will be watching out for your own good Jones, so I strongly recommend that you keep your head down and stay out of our business." he heard Mason cry out.

Arnold only a few days later saw his father actually paying protection money for a second time to Mason; he had come straight home after a Wednesday's hockey class. It was late in the evening Mason was on the steps to their apartment a wrapped up plastic bag was handed to him. "Again you are doing the right thing!"

Arnold called out. "How could you?"

"I have to son...' stated Cody looking down at the bag in Mason's hand. 'I have no other chose blast it; it's the only way to keep the store!"

"Your father's correct; just let him do what he as to and save some face.' with that Mason actually tapped Cody on the face. 'People could get hurt if the dragon's done get their way!"

Later in the early hours of the morning Arnold's father was pacing the hallway of their apartment; Arnold sat on his bed looking into the hall he could even find the will to look him in the eye. "I'm sick of this Arnold please look me in the eye; I am still your father!" Straight away the father and son started to argue with each other over why Cody was willingly paying money to those crooks.

"Come on son see it from my point of view!"

"Your point of you... Come on you make me stick; good job Sidney left with mum or he'd tell you the same!"

"The same things I used to know aren't the blasted same any more! This city we've called home just isn't the same... If I had my way Arnold then I'd be with your mother and brother and be long gone from this hole!" stated Cody in the heat of the moment.

Arnold begged him not to fund Khan's evil. "It's not as easy as that damn it son." stated his father.

But Arnold argued back by saying. "It only takes one person to stand up to these crooks and to try and put a stop to Khan and those Purple Dragons!"

"You said it I'm just one man... If I did stand up to them and they come to take the store or worst hurt you then what can I do?"

Arnold wiped the back of his sleeve over his eyes. "Come on try something; you don't have to do this for me! This dad as got to stop; we've got to do something... They'll bleed us till we're dry; why pay for protection from off bullies! It just doesn't make any sense."

"I get that, but this clan they are too big."

"Then dad why not call police; they must be able to help!"

His father shook his head and interrupted his son. "No... No police, if I don't pay them then I'll handle this myself."

"But they can get them dad wipe them off the street's for good!"

"I will not have you look at me the same way again; if I fix this then we're got gone from the city for good." So to trying and prove a point to his son, Arnold's father said "I wont pay another penny to Khan and if they do come calling for more then I'd tell them to stay away or I'll have no other option but to contacted the police!" This please Arnold and his hugged his father.

Cody wouldn't have to wait long before he came face to face yet again with Mason and his thugs; Mason walked into the Jones' store. "We're here to collect Master Khan's money; protection doesn't come cheap!"

Arnold's father's heart was racing, but he stuck to his guns. "I think not; not this month or any other blast you, wear your masks if you must Mason but you can tell whoever you like Mr Jones ain't paying. This is my store and I'll be the one who protects it damn you!" and with that said Mr Jones held up his son's hockey stick; he knew he wasn't going to use it and was using it for show under pinning his actions.

Mason just laughed he wasn't impressed by this wavering stand of the Jones', but still he backed away to the door all the same. "Oh we'll be back you can count on that and when we do we'll be asking for much more green to make sure you'll never forget who protect these street again."

"Yeah and you'll feel a peace of firm wood if you cross these doors again!"

"Yes I'll like to see you try;' stated Mason with his hand now on the door. 'You know your place Jones, because if you don't maybe Master Khan will have to take you're whole damn store!" and with that Mason turned and left the store, the other two followed, but before they left they made sure that they knocked a few pricey things over first though.

Arnold came running in from the back of the store, they looked at each other. Cody smiling as he still had grasp of the hockey stick. "I hope I've did you proud." Arnold looked up at his father with a smile and nodded.

It seemed that Cody's brave stand had worked and things over the next few days had appeared to have turned a corner for the Jones'; Arnold would rush to the shop to help out his father after school and Mason also stopped bothering him every second.

However Khan couldn't afford to let Arnold's father's stand of defiance go and was merely buying his time to acted. He came to Mason, so that he could pass on his orders onto Mason. "I need everyone to fall in our wake. Mason we must keep a hold of control, no one would be willing to stand against us... I too have my order's he wants me to gain control of the neighbourhood; I want you to make them rethink their folly. Mason take your friends I require you to burn down the Jones' store!"

"What!?" stated Mason with some inch of question.

"I said burn that damn place to the ground! It's time to show the people in the neighbourhood who's in charge.' replied Khan rubbing his hands together. 'No one and I mean no one says no to me if we are to be apart of the clan." Khan grinned as Mason stepped forward ready and willing to burn down the Jones' store.

Mason crossed the street to stand back and watch; back across the street as his gang had kicked in the glass door, 'Very good my friend's this is it my link to the big games.' he thought. Rob, Bow and the other's picked up cans of gasoline and were now inside the store pouring it over everything; drenching the entire store with the dark liquid. A single match was then struck and flicked down to the ground by Bow the light of the match casting shadows over his face.

As soon as the match hit the gasoline the fire erupted and quickly spread throughout the store. "Okay on we've done our damage time to go!"

"Yeah let the place burn, they deserve nothing more!" agreed Bow; the pair of thugs laughed as they left the store and strolled across the street to stand beside their leader Mason Hunter.

"Here boys on this night starts our rise in the ranks... Khan as assured me my place in the Shibano Ni Clan and yours will come soon after!" he stated; Bow and Rob looked across at each other and nodded. Mason simply stood there with a grin on his face watching as the Jones' store starts to burn; this was a sign to show the people in the neighbourhood who's in charge.

-The Rise The Mask-

Arnold sees Mason just standing there with that big grin on his face. Mason shouts across to him. "You better go and tell your father boy that we'll be sticking around. This city now belongs to the power of the dragon, so next time we come a calling he better be smart and pay up like the bloody rest of them!" Mason merely pointing out which store's paid the clan's protection.

"I don't get it just why in the hell are you doing this Mason? Why are you actually willingly causing all this anguish?" retaliated Arnold anger spilling out in his voice.

"Why, ah haven't you realised it yet. It's oh so simple Arnold, I'm doing this personally because I can and there's no one out there that can ever stop us.' He said the last part with a smile on his smug face. 'And know this Arnold I am also doing this because it is the will of the clan as requested it of me."

"Damn you Mason, you've gone too far this time!" called out Arnold, casting a hand over the seen behind his shoulder. Cody stood in shock the phone by his side as he got of the line from the with the emergency service.

Mason Hunter merely just laughs back at Arnold's uncontrollable outburst and said. "I've chosen to go by the name Hun now kid, the past I once had is over... finished! I act in the name of the dragons, I do all of this now as Hun."

Arnold just couldn't believe what he was listening to; had Mason really lost it. "Just get a grip yeah; we all have to live in this hood, why do you wish to destroy the businesses that you and your family have used for years?"

"Oh look who sounds like the big man now yeah, well big man know this I am tired of my hood being control by the people who've put me down. I'll be running the hood now!" Hun laughed deeply, truly not afraid of Arnold's stand.

"I tell you this Hun I'm bloody sick and tired of you and this hood being control by people like you and your damn lackies; I'll be the one who's gonna be taking you down." Arnold meant business; his voice was strong and determined as looking his old school bully now firmly in the eye.

However, Hun simply continued to just stand there laughing away not taking Arnold's warning seriously. "Oh yeah I'd like to see you try, our leader boy is only just getting started and soon every store in this block will have a dragon blazing over it!' Arnold sank to his knees in tears. 'That's it Arnold, there's nothing you nor anyone else who can do to stop the future!" Hun rejoined Rob and Bow as the fire service arrived.

Still angry and upset at what had happened earlier in the week Arnold made an attempt to tried and carry on normally; on Wednesday night as always Arnold made his way across town to his hockey class. The coach had met him at the door and stated just how sorry he was to hear about the store stating. "I truly hope they get the thugs behind all this trouble; I really do Arnold... I really do!" Arnold merely nodded and headed to the locker room; some players stopped talked and turned to look over at Arnold.

Throughout the whole lesson Arnold hide his feeling under his goalie mask; not taking if off as he didn't take to. His coach could sense that there was something really bothering him and John decided to call for a break; skating over to Arnold to talk.

"So you okay there kid; it seems as if you're not your plucky self tonight... Look if you ever just need to chat you know my door is always open; I won't let you down you know!" Coach Frankford stood waiting for a response as he wished to get through to the boy, however none came Arnold merely shacking him off leaving the ice.

Wanting to be left alone he headed straight into the lock room area. As he entered the room Arnold hears the faith ringtone of a ringing mobile out from one of his fellow team mates kit bag and cried out from the door. "Hey there's a mobile phone ringing in the changing room." He watched has one of his team members ran towards him.

The guy in his late teens gave him a cheeky wink as he ran by and stated. "Thanks Arnold, what would I do without you around? Just like a goalie always there with the save!"

"Yeah something like that." said Arnold flipping back down his hockey mask.

After the phone call Arnold noticed that the boy couldn't take his eyes off him; Arnold felt unconformable. Back on the ice half way through the lesson the same player took his chance and skated over on the ice to Arnold; he came in close whispering into his ear. "It seems as if I've got a message for you of all things Arnold from my master, the power of the dragon's is here to stay and you like everyone else better realise that before it's too late."

At hearing this Arnold instantly flipped, the anger he felt was truly just too much for him to take control of and he saw red; he just couldn't believe what he had just heard; this street gang organisation was literally everywhere now and without thinking Arnold lugged forward spearing him down to the hard ice.

Down on the cold ice a scuffle between the two broke out; hit after hit strike after strike. Arnold was fighting hard the other fighting to protect himself from Arnold's blows. Their coach came rushing over on the ice at seeing what was going on on his ring. Arnold could hear the sound of his whistle and John call out, "Arnold…Arnold cut it out blast you... Cut it out this is not what we do to each other! Stop this madness, Arnold what as gotten into you damn you!' But still he couldn't stop himself. 'This will not do blast you... No not on my ice! Not in my class, I don't know what is going on, but I want this stopped!" By this point the rest of the team had come rushing over and had now formed a circle around them; everyone watching as Arnold held up his hockey stick and struck him down across the guy's face.

In the end John saw that there was just no way to stop this and quickly called in a number of other team members from the circle to break up the fight. As Arnold was held back he vowed to get his revenge. "You'll do nothing of the sorts Arnold, your attack here on Tyrone as gone to damn far..."

Arnold tried to respond, but John looked over at Arnold is total discussed. "The boy is no doubt going to need hospital attention and as far as your misconduct here tonight Arnold I have no other option but to scrap your place on this team and boy you know the saddest part of all this I'm going to have to get the police involved in this matter.' Through the blood and the pain Tyrone hear this and grinned out of the corner of his mouth. 'They will no doubt want to speak with you!"

"Damn him and damn his entire clan; know this Tyrone I'll see to it that no matter what happens to me.' Arnold pointing at himself and then back at Tyrone. 'I'll be the one to take Hun out!"and with that said Arnold broke out of the grip of his team mates and went after Hun.

Arnold vowed to get his revenge and was still running through the town still wearing his hockey mask pulled over his face and holding his hockey stick tightly in hand, however John had inevitably called out the police and before Arnold could find Hun and strike; Arnold was unfortunately arrested for battery.

Cody just couldn't get his head around his son's actions; he tried his best to make things work. However as things started to get more and more heated in the city Cody saw no other option; he visited Arnold in juvenile detention. "Son its dark times out there; this town ain't what I signed up for any longer... This dragon gang as gotten everyone on tenter hooks and the police even if the wanted to are left with no leads on how to bring them down!"

"Dad what are you saying?" questioned Arnold, almost knowing the answer already.

"I'm moving out son, I'm going to move closer to your brother and mum... It's the only was I.' Cody paused and placed a hand on the glass panel. 'We can start over; I can let another store you Arnold can start some classes and we can also see more of Sid!"

Arnold didn't match his father's hand, on the other hand Arnold stank into his hands not wanting to hear this now and not willing to listen. "Can't you see this is what they want... By you leaving dad they have won... They have beaten you, wait until I come out maybe we can make a change for ourselves." His father shook his head, soon after Cody took his leave. Within a few months Cody was done; he had given his notice on their apartment and left the city in a rented van.

Back in the mansion of the clan; Takehiko took on hight surviving the fighting hall, where potential members practised their fighting. Jason the elite member of the clan he had aided all those years ago stepped forward; a teenager caught his eye and thought that Takehiko thought to see. "Sir I have a rookie I feel you should meet; I have been training him for just this day." Jason sounded confident in choosing.

Takehiko nodded calmly to Jason stating. "Then my elite soldier take me to him; if you believe him worthy of my time." Jason nodded and took him to the young gun.

There was a teenage boy fighting it out in the arena; Takehiko saw straight away the potential in this student as he watched their practise fight; he then turned to Jason. "He will need training of the best Jason if he is to be chosen."

"He may look a little uncut rough around the edges, but I knew that you would see him worth master!" Jason bowed in respect.

Takehiko stepped down into the arena for a closer watch. The teenager made some great moves; Jason nodding with each blow as the rookie acted fast making short work of the fight defeating his opponent. Takehiko stated as his cast his hand over the defeated fighter. "Take this loser away.' The boy turned to look at the clan master; he saw Jason nod from over Takehiko's shoulder as others quickly stepped in and dragged the loser out of the arena. 'You are a good fighter it seems young one, you have caught the eye of one of the best; what his your name?"

"The boy's name is Scott Beckinsale!" stated Jason stepping to the boy side and placing a firm and supporting hand on his shoulder.

"Scott I have seen a drive, a thirst in you that can be so much more!"

"Thank you Master Takehiko!" replied Scott, bowing in respect.

However to everyone's surprise Takehiko stepped forward and without warning grabbed hold of the boy's clothes and throw him down hard to the ground. Scott looked up dazed and confused at what had just occurred. "I would have though Scott that you would have been taught never to take your eye of an opponent; it seems as if it's a lesson I have to teach you!" snapped Takehiko leaning in and looking the teen right in the eyes.

"Yes, it will never happen again." replied Scott without wavering heeding Takehiko's first lesson.

Takehiko then signals for Scott to attack; Scott got to his feet and came for the high ranking member; Takehiko jumped to fighting stands and was ready. The young gun fought well coming in with a number of good offensive moves; this pleases Takehiko, who had no way understatement Scott. The high ranking clan member comes back with some harder, sharper and more defined moves; which Scott couldn't not defend himself against. Takehiko then held up his hand stopping the fight in its tracks. "You will do me proud tonight; I will ultimate state my approval of you to Shre`Ard." he addressed Scott, before turning to Jason. 'yet again it seems you have come through for me!" Jason nodded without speaking, as a gong sounded throughout the great hall signalling the start of the hooding ceremony of the new members to the Shibano Ni clan.

-The Chosen Many The Successful Five-

Within the halls of Shre`Ard's building every one reacted to the sound of the gong rang through the building; some turned to Takehiko for guidance and other's looked upon Khan to know the right thing to do.

Shre`Ard stood in the dim light corner; out of clear view as Takehiko led the way for the girls and boys, who had shown and done what it takes to be considered a full members of the clan. They lined up behind him, each one not paying any attention to the other at all; their eyes kept firmly forward all wanting the price. All stood in hopes of handing their life's over to their master and becoming a full member to the clan. Takehiko casts a nasty sharp look of disgust over at Khan as he stood wait for Shre`Ard's immanent arrival.

Whispers had actually started to run through the entire ceremony room; from mouth to ear. "They stand all together!"

"Yeah but who do you think won't step forward?"

"Yeah and who will be lucky enough to have their names called to be chosen apart of the clan by the great!"

"Some say Hun will and even as of today Takehiko is backing Scott."

"Yeah Scott's a done deal Takehiko and our master go back along way!" a whisper could be heard.

"Well I know the Khan as had Shre`Ard's ear for some weeks now; green handed to him on a minute bases." But the chatter soon immediately fell silent as the gong was struck again.

The sound dead as Shre`Ard entered the room, stepping out of the shadows. He stood in front of the room triumphant and all in the room wasted no time in showing their respects by bowing to their leader as Shre`Ard stood high above him. Takehiko took his place by Shre`Ard side, disrobing the cloak of the head of the clan.

Shre`Ard seemed to state something in Takehiko's ear, to which he merely nodded in agreement stating. "Yes my master these are our chosen; each one stands before you with our backing! They await your judgement to take them further." and he casts his arm passed by each awaiting teenager before him.

Takehiko then stepped aside taking his place by Shre`Ard right side and Master Khan stood to his left-hand side; both were looking overly pleased with themselves and at their perspective candidates as they lined up before them.

Khan casting a crooked eyebrow within the blink of an eye over at Takehiko, an act missed by Shre`Ard and Takehiko, but caught by Hun; who stood in the line breaming with confidence and determination, with a kind of knowing grin on his face. 'Oh yeah this is it, I'll get my hood my leader as seen to that then this is it... oh yes this is war!'

Shre`Ard stepped forward to address the entire room; surveying the great hall admiring for a second at what he had successfully accomplished. As all before him had been brought together by his work his voice; to hope to share in his dominance. "This as you all know is truly a proud night for the Shibano Ni clan and truly one for all of you as well; as tonight you wait to hear which amongst you has been chosen to serve the clan!"

"You have taken this night to freely give your life's up to serve your master and to proudly wear the great mark of the clan.' Each young teenage that stood there before him looked at each other in turn before nodding back in reply. 'There is no apologises, but this great right does not fall upon all of you here tonight. Only the ones that I truly see as fit will be asked to step forward to gain their black hoods; my view here is the only one that counts."

Each girl and boy looked around at each other, the build up was truly getting to the other four, all however except Hun who stood perfectly still, arms by his side and head held firm looking forward; clearly his confidence could be seen by Shre`Ard and the other's in the room 'This is mine for the taking... This is mine for the taking. Both Khan and Shre`Ard know and seen what I can do... What I can deliver for them and the clan.'

"Therefore tonight I will only be calling forth five of you to step forward; the five of whom have done just that by Takehiko and Khan! The five that I now alone see fit amongst you as the most powerful and skilled, five whom are worthy to carry the mark of the Shubbano Ni clan and receive their black hood!" The young and the led were truly hooked on Shre`Ard's every word just hoping to be one of those five; all eyes now looking forward to their three masters.

"The other's that have been brought here to stand before me alas I feel have a little further to go and with my guidance, Takehiko's carriage and Khan's determination you all one glorious night will step forward under the clan's mark and power. I do have strong and worthy hopes for you in the future, as the clan can only grow greater if you all play your parts!' The great leader paused; the anticipation was truly building.

'Now my chosen five; I will ask you to step forward the ones here I see are worthy!"

Shre`Ard called out in turn. "Hun-Mason Hunter, Serena Darlington, Tyrone Starkweather, Jamie Patt and Sofia Pratico." Shre`Ard raised his arm stretched out for all to see; as he held up firm his fist, the whole room gave a single cheer and also held up their fists in the air as each one of the new members stepped forward in turn and were handed their hooded masks by Shre`Ard to become on this night apart of the Shibano Ni clan forever.

Hun was the second person to be called forward; he stepped before Shre`Ard without any hesitation. Shre`Ard turned to his side, Khan stepped forward and handed Shre`Ard a black hood. "One that as truly embraced the ways of the clan and your teacher Hun... A promising chose you are to the clan."

"Yes, that I hope to be.' he nodded in agreement to his master's words. 'I will serve you well Master Shre`Ard my life is better for this mark." Hun said rubbing his hand over the symbol of the clan on he mask then without question proudly took the mask from his masters hands and pulled his mask over his face taking his place to become a Shibano Ni soldier.

Shre`Ard spoke again addressing the new members. "Each of you truly shone through in training with both Master Takehiko and Khan at your side, but now you all solely answers to me now. I am your only master and tonight you step into a new life. The clan is your all your everything! The clan is your future; the clan as you breath is your home and family. Money cannot buy the honour you have earned here tonight! You have made me truly proud of each one of you.'

He stopped and turned to address the others. 'Now you all could one day amount to what those in front of you have achieved tonight. Only by showing myself your effort, discipline and loyalty can earn you then earn the mark of the Shibano Ni clan."

"We will show ourselves to you oh mighty Shre`Ard! We will not disappoint you oh great master." cried out the girls and boys who didn't make it and they were then lead out of the room by an elite soldier.

Back inside the main hall the clan stood as one, all were facing forward towards their grand master. Each and everyone were truly ready to lay down their new found life for that of the Shibano Ni clan and Shre`Ard knew this fact straight away. Shre`Ard spoke again addressing the new members; his eyes looked down on them through his silver mask. "Each of you have truly shone through in training with both Master Takehiko and Khan at your side and I assure you they have both stated your greatness, but now you all must solely answers to me now. I am your only master and tonight you step into a new life, a new and better beginning. You have made me truly proud of each one of you; the clan is your everything!"

"The clan is our everything, Shre`Ard!" replied the five members with the rest of the clan; each new member was taking in fully what he was saying.

"The clan is your future! The clan is your home and your family; never forget what you must do for this privilege."

"We serve our new family... our home... our future! In your teachings oh master we will become great!"

Shre`Ard pointed up to the mark of the clan on the banner behind him and stated proudly for all to hear. "You are all here on this night, because of one reason and one reason only; that is because the rest of the world does not get you. They consider you to be no more than a mere outcast as a degenerate based on the sole fact of where you come from and what you do, but by my hand in your masks you are lifted above their view."

"I want you all to go out into their world and be true to members of the Shibano Ni Clan; as in your masks their views of right and wrong does not matter to you any longer. In your masks only my view matters from this day forth; effort, discipline and loyalty to the rising of the clan!"

The head of the American clan stood proudly before them as their cheer echoed out filling the entire room. "Too the rising of the clan! Too the rising of the clan!" Khan nodded as he stood on watching the event unfold.

Takehiko left the ceremony chamber; he did not look all too happy with what had just transpired. 'This is not the great master I stood besides when I willingly left Japan, clearly the whispers of this so called master Khan have gotten to him... Will the ones of the purple dragon not just water down the clan. Whereas the ones I being and mould are just as Shibano himself once formed and moulded me and Master Saki.'

He had many questioned and doubts in his head; Takihiko came over straight away to speak with Jason and Scott. "Master I just heard Scott didn't make the cut; one only Jamie and Serena make it thought!"

"This is not what I had wished for Jason, I was sure that you were in Scott; I had spoken to Shre`Ard only moments before the start of the ceremony. I didn't at the time see the purple shadow that as been pulled over his eyes; however it is clear to me now more than ever that Khan as truly gotten in our master's ears. I had hoped tonight that Shre`Ard would have asked you to step forward and cast glory upon you and my teachings."

"I will no doubt have my day soon enough; as you have taught me well Takehiko. I am honoured that you have placed all this faith in me! The clan as given me everything, I will not let you down again my master."

-The Arrogant The Cold-

Shiro enjoyed is new found role as their father and teacher; he had watched the turtles grow up into their late teens; each one had followed in their sensei's teaching to evolve into great and skilled ninjas. He had also realised that he couldn't shelter the four down in the sewers any longer.

Shiro knew deep down that he had to continue on with the fight against the Shibano Ni clan and now more than ever as Shre`Ard had now taken the clan to operate fully outside the jurisdiction of the law. However, he too had also watched himself age and growing old; white grey lines now downed his dark brown far. Now the rat was truly finding it ever so hard to head up top side in the shadows of the city and keep on taking the fight to Shre`Ard and the clan.

Shiro hoped that with all that he had taught them the turtles could handle anything Shre`Ard could throw at them and that his students would be safe forever. So Shiro came to his four students; Leiko turned to face his sensei sensing the something was wrong by the look on his face. "My student's I name to talk with you.' He was sure now more then ever that they were able to take care of themselves in a fight with the clan, especially if they worked together; combining their skills, knowledge, abilities and quick fired wit and asks. 'As you know I venture top-side and have for many a year now been taking on the might of Shre`Ard; I can not lie to myself any longer it is taking its toll on me."

"You are one to go on forever sensei." was Miyuki's comments; feeling them right.

Shiro smiled slightly and lowered his head. "I true wish that you were right Miyuki; however that is not true. That is why I ask you four to take up my fight and to try to stop Shre`Ard's ongoing criminal career."

Rin looked over at Miyuki shocked at what their sensei had just asked them. Dai actually remained silent mulling over what his sensei had asked of them. Leiko and hoped that this time would come for some time now and was happy to have been told the truth. "Tonight sensei you can rest knowing that your fight will be completed soon enough!" The fern green box turtle holding tight his Ninjato sword.

The turtles for the first time gathered their weapons and readied themselves to leave the domain of their subway home. "This is it then!" stated Dai pushing his bo-staff into the strap which run across his shell.

Muyki nodded looking down at his set of in his Nunchakus waste belt and Rin cracked his knuckles ready to brawl; his sai sharp and gleaming in his belt ready to be used in battle. Leiko quickly ran a cloth over his Ninjato before placing them in the straps which crossed down over his shell. "I does appear so Dai; together we will stand as a team.' he for a second looking over at Rin before continuing. 'Venturing out further than we have every done before. Our sensei as given us the skills and information that we need; now let's prove ourselves and see if we've got what it takes."

Rin came forward at this point and placed a hand on his leader's shoulder. "They will fall Leiko, I am not worried I am not scared we do this for our sensei... Oh they will fall at our hands."

Rin's tone was cold and soulless; this truly worried Leiko as he thought for a second. 'Will he listen to me when the time comes not to end a life; his rage his cold does worry me. Yes we fight for Shiro our sensei's life was been so affected and changed by the clan, however...' he stopped his line of thought not yet wishing to go down that road.

Miyuki seemed a little quiet than normal and a good leader could pick upon this. "And so what about you little brother, how are you?" asked Leiko trying to get a feel from the joker of the pack.

"Who me?" replied Miyuki placing a hand on his chest, almost a little taken aback by being asked.

"Yes you brother, where's that wit and charm we've all come to have from you!"

"Well like Rin said this is it... I have been waiting for this day since out transformation and here is that day; Leiko I can tell you my green head in fall of emotions... I say let's do this order's are yours brother." ended the young olive drab Red-eared Slider Turtle placing his hand firmly over Leiko's as a sign of loyalty.

The four would venture top-side taking the pipe system, that they have been down so many times before, now to a man-hole cover which would take them to a place they had dreamt of but never been to before. The turtles were now ready to make this great bold step continuing their sensei's mission to fight the Shibano Ni clan. Lead by Leiko each one calmed up the ladder Leiko pushing up the man-hole cover to a side road.

In the light of the surface the box turtle waiting a few seconds until the road was clear for them to make a break for the shadows. "This is it, time to make our break for it." Just below him on the ladder Dai nodded.

Rin looked up from the bottom of the ladder stating. "Just let's got on with it yeah; only a few hours of darkness left no doubt." the Red-eared Slider Turtle not really taking to the wait so kindly.

They stepped out into the open air; each one took their first breath of clean fresh air. Not waiting long in the clear view of the city the four turtles heading quickly into the dark alleyway. Only a few steps from the main street Leiko turned to the others. "This is a big taking, but we will do this...' stated Leiko, sounding off in a wavering brave tone. 'Keep close, don't venture off... We don't wish to get seen." the other three nodded even Rin agreed with his statement.

"We've got our locations, we'll move out in 3." said Leiko holding up his three fingered hand. The four however quickly stepped back into the shadows for a second as the lines of a police car lit up the alleyway for a split second.

"Look maybe we haven't time for three there Leiko." stated Rin trying to push the move much quicker.

"I could have counted to six by now.' something that made Miyuki laugh. 'But yeah let's go." And under the instructions of Shiro the four headed up to the roof of the building; using fire escapes, vent boxes, railings and mere cracks in the brick work to get to the roof; as a team they across the sky-line of the city jumping and leaping from roof-top to roof-top with some considerable ease to target a number of Shre`Ard's known quarters.

The turtles; Leiko, Dai, Rin and Miyuki looked down on a shell of a building; it truly looked like no one had done work on the building for many years, but the turtles were seeing movement to and few from the building. "This is a known drop of point for cash; that they get from chocking honest businesses." stated Leiko.

Dai shook his head. "I just can't believe our sensei as been fighting these alone for so many years."

"Yeah it seems as if you take one out then another four or five form around up." chipped in Miyuki.

Rin nodded a firm look on his face. "Yeah maybe when all is said and done you've got to go for the head." Hitting his right fist down into his left palm.

There was some sudden movement from the main doors; Dai pointed down to the commotion. "Looks like they've been called to arms."

"This is going to be one sweet fight!"pipped up Miyuki, with one hand clutching his Nunchakus.

"Yes it sure will Miyuki, let's do this.' nodded Rin looking across at Leiko. 'So then great leader what will it be?"

"Hey can I take the right set with you!" chipped in Miyuki with a crack of his neck pointing at Leiko.

Rin looked sharply over at Leiko. "Come on then boss make the call, what's it going to be? It time we've got to strike now or it'll be too late."

Leiko turned to Rin. "No drastic moves okay... This is new grow... I'm not running in there blind-folded!" stamped out the Box Turtle, taking a little time to survey the scene below. Rin's blood bowled not taking to waiting; this soon subsided when Leiko make the call.

"Okay Miyuki you with we; we'll hit the right and Dai you team with Rin keep him on the narrow." he actually joked pointing to the left.

Rin shook his head, but was happy he had orders to move down to stop the clan's actions. 'This is it, no turning back... Let's just hope these soldier's can put up a fight.' Were Rin's thoughts as he make his brake down with the others.

Leiko drew his swords and stood ready; "Look whatever you must do; please just refrain from killing; these are just kids... Teens like us yeah." Dai and Miyuki nodded in a agreement; Rin knew he was right and also nodded in understanding.

Dai came to Rin's side. "It's you and I then bother; this is no sensei's sparing...' he drew his bo-staff. 'Let's see if I've got what it takes."

"Just stay close and shell up!" snapped Rin.

On an abandoned street in a bad part of the city the four came face to face with a number of Shibano Ni clan soldiers and with Rin charging on ahead and preforming a jumping forward with a flying side kick a fight soon broke out. Rin brought a clan member down to the ground, spinning his sai around fast and hit the guy on the side of the head with the hilt; which Leiko saw as Rin's way of showing his agreement to his earlier orders.

The punk's kept coming; weapons in hands ready to strike and strike hard. The turtles make short work of the thugs, hurt and wounded the clan were defeated; leaving their leader still standing. Miyuki cupped his hands around his mouth and cried out as the four turtles stood triumphant side by side. "Go back and tell your leader that the green is coming to end their ill gotten games!"

As the clan members reluctantly fell back defeated a soldier stepped forward, pointing at the four green turtles; his other hand crutching his chest and swore blind. "The clan one day will no doubt see to it that you freaks will be destroyed!" and with that the soldier escaped into the back alleyway.

Both Rin and Miyuki were totally ready to run after the clan, but Rin was called back by Miyuki who stopped in his tracks; he was the first to hear the sirens of the police. "Hey not tonight, we'll let the good boys in blue finish off here. We better stand down Rin!"

The others had also heard the echo of the police sirens. "They'll have a lot to clean up." addressed Dia looking back over his shoulder and around to the alleyway.

Rin however was pumped up, full of adrenaline and still ready to make the charge. "But I don't understand? We've got them on the run, we should give chase.' called back Rin a hand going down to pick up a fallen sai. 'Besides wouldn't it be the perfect time to take them down now!"

"No he's right, come on back Rin. We'll have another day another time, but for now it's our time to go." stated Miyuki placing a hand on Rin's shoulder; Rin looked back he was ready to merely brush it aside even letting go on his sai.

"Err come on now you three I'm just getting warming up." was Rin's snappy reply, as he swiped Miyuki's hand away. Leiko shook his head; Rin looked back Miyuki and rolled his eyes at Leiko and the other's.

"Look if we're caught by the boys in blue then they'll be asking questions about us that even my intellect would be able to answer."

"Well I guess you're right as always Dia." agreed Rin pulling back, as the police had arrived.

The turtles faded away back down into the sewers, as the front lights of the police cars turned into the alleyway. Leiko was the last to head down through the man-hole cover, as he did so Leiko saw an officer arrest a member of the clan. "Read him his right Officer Stern." he heard one of the more superior officer say to the lower ranking officer.

The officer nodded as he stepped behind the clan member, Officer Stern took hold of his wrists and clicked into place a set of handcuffs. "You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law." He was still a young officer, but Stern kept totally calm and made his voice sound clear and forceful than it normally is.

And then as the officer pulled off the clan members mask Leiko saw to his utter shock just how young these members Shre`Ard had brought to his clan were. "You've got to be kidding right! Their nothing more than mere kids, just simple teens like us.' he said in shock. 'The clan is willing to have teens fighting for them; its just plain madness." as the police officer continued to read the teenager the rest of his rights. The man-hole cover was lowered into place and the four turtles made their way back to the abandoned station.

The turtles had soon returned to their secret lair, feeling hyper; Rin and Miyuki were definitely ready to report their victory to their Sensei. Shiro was sitting in his den in silence drinking a warm cup of Soya milk. Their sensei lowered his cup from his lips and placed it on the tray before him. "I see my student's that we have had some success!"

Leiko nodded. "Yes Shiro we have had our first taste of battle with the clan." stated Leiko, as he kneed down before the rat.

"Yeah and they had their first taste of the turtles Shiro." stated Rin addressing Shiro, as he stood in front of his teacher.

"Yeah and we were great sensei,' added Miyuki coming over a placing his arm around Rin. 'Oh they were many, but we were one sensei as you asked... And we were able to kick some..." Miyuki however was stopped by a look from Leiko from finishing off his sentence.

Leiko shock his head. "Oh brother! This is not a day to celebrate." he commented.

"You would have been proud of us Shiro.' chipped in Dai. 'Leiko led us well Shiro!"

Leiko just caught sight of Rin shaking his head and whispering over to Miyuki. "If you say so just leaving them for the police."

"Look we did the right thing Rin to damage the heart of the clan. It's important the police see their crimes. Will made sure they pay for their crimes!' snapped Leiko, pointing a finger up at Rin. 'And one day the clan will have no place to gain control!"

Shiro's ears picked up, he quickly turned to Rin. "Were you seen?"

Leiko shock his head. "No sensei that we weren't."

Shiro held firm his wooden can and as he heavily leaned on it for support he slowly got to his feet. He addressed the four turtles. "In this you should never laps enough! Those who could be our allies could never seemed to understand who we are and our life's.' Each turtle stood in silence; knowing this wasn't the time to question their sensei's judgement.

'Our domain is within the shadows; that is our sanctuary stray from it reluctantly. For when you do, I know that I can not protect you. It is crucial my students that you must strike hard and fast, then fade away without a trace, but I fear it is the only way."

"We fully understood sensei" nodded Dai.

"You have done well on this night, all of you have shown me that I was right to let you continue on with my fight against the Shibano Ni Clan and their so called leader Shre`Ard, however this is your first step the fight I can assure you is far from over. Shre`Ard must full before that happens!"

Leiko then told Shiro exactly what the thugs were like and what they totally believed in. "Shiro it was something I was not expecting them to be just so young, they truly couldn't know what they want from life let alone know if they wanted to fight for the clan."

These words cut him deeply. "It is truly troubling indeed Lieko, but I am truly pleased in the knowledge that you my students are ready and able to defeat the Shibano Ni clan."

The swift appearance of the turtles within the city were soon felt at the very heart of the Shibano Ni Clan; drawing concern from even the top ranking members. Questions were being asked and pressure from Japan was being placed upon Shre`Ard's shoulders and so in his search for answers Shre`Ard called forth a meeting with Takehiko and Master Khan, along with his best soldier the eager young Hun.

They stepped into the room; the table was set for ten, but it was only Shre`Ard in the room waiting for them. Takehiko sat down followed by Khan; behind him stood Hun. "I must have whoever is trying to stop me dead. The head of the clan Shibano Sama is starting to ask questions and that will not do. The Shibano Ni clan has backed us all in the past and now it is time for us all to pay back to the clan and Master Sama."

"I merely don't understand my master... my lord your empire flourishes Master Sher`Ard at every turn, why then you would let the mere existence of these new creatures truly you so? There is truly nothing in this world that could be powerful enough to stop you!" Master Khan questioned. Takehiko looking over to see Hun nodding in agreement.

Shre`Ard folded his arms and looked across the table at him. "I must have whoever is trying to stop me killed Khan. The head of the clan Shibano Sama is starting to ask questions and that will not do."

Takehiko however was ready to play a different card to try and lay rest to Shre`Ard's concerns. "We have searched the entire city in your name Shre`Ard, whoever as struck against us are good; they hit us fast and hard; then they leave into the shadows with no trace!"

Shre`Ard thought about what Takehiko had said and something clicked and brought him back to something his brother use to say about Yoshi 'He hit me hard that day, then as I turned around to strike back he had used Kenshin's training to move without a sound and came from the shadows to take me down!'

"It is something about the way you describe their actions and ways of fighting, there is something familiar and it sadly reminds me of my past.' he replied. 'Now go out there I will not take anything for granted until they are dead at my feet! Do you all understand?"

"Yes my lord." stated both Khan and Takehiko at the same time; Takehiko at this adding. "Your great clan members will serve you Shre`Ard in all that they can."

Shre`Ard drew back his chair and stood firm; pointing back to the door. "Very good then, now get out there and bring me back their heads!" Shre`Ard did not wait for a response.

Arnold had hung on in; keeping his head down and finished his time in juvenile detention earlier than planned; signing onto a community served program, but he however was not willing to forget about the actions of Khan and Hun. These feelings were intensified by the letter that awaited him from his father asking him to leave the city and head out to meet him at New Founds Trailer Park. 'We had everything; and now we've left with empty pockets... Our store down in flames, my father ran and our apartment rented out again. And as for me I'm heading to the Yhostle.'

Several weeks had gone by and in needs to help show his community officer that he was getting his life back on track once again Arnold signed to gain his bouncer licence and took an evening election course at the Yhostle.

Arnold had then gotten himself two part times job; his first as a handyman in his apartment block and the second at a night club called Torches as a bouncer.

However Arnold had started to build a secret life for himself; hoping to build a character that would strike fear and doubt into the minds of those who threaten his home. Arnold started an intensive weight training regimen; heading down to the Yhostle's gym area before and after work; if he would get the time Arnold would help other's in his building; lift heavy boxes, moving furniture, anything heavy really; secretly using these tasks as away to gain muscle and to help strengthen his core.

He had then purchased a few books on different forms of martial arts to help him harness his technique. Arnold would also use his skills to restrain drunken lads who thought they could try it on. All ready for when it came for him to combat the bad guys.

Arnold would have delivered to his small studio-room the local newspaper, so that he could read about the sharp raise in crime; more importantly he cut out the crimes that were unsolved ones in the area. He believed that these crimes were the work of the Purple Dragon's, so that he could try and keep a compressive log of their actions and movements.

Arnold then searched through all his sports equipment and gear, and began to put together an outfit; that could protect him and to equally hurt others. He stood proudly looking at himself in the mirror. 'Don't I look good.' he thought, grinning to himself from under his old hockey mask. 'Damn if I saw myself standing before me I'd crap myself.'

And so without the knowledge of his community officer Arnold would sneak out under the cover of darkness most evenings and enter into the shadows of the big city dressed in a white hockey mask and mainly black attire to strike back against Khan and whoever turns to follow him where ever he can. Slowly Arnold started to walk the city streets with more confidence.

On one far afternoon as the sounds of a train echoed through the old platform Shiro had gathered the four turtles together to set up a couple of sparing section, their sensei paired off Rin and Dai together and then Leiko sparing off against Miyuki. Shiro watched ever move; his feet shoulder width apart, and his hands clasped in the small of his back, smiling proudly. "You are truly getting much better my students, I am please!' stated Shiro; this encouragement lifted Leiko's mood. 'The more you all practise against one and other, then the better ninjas' you four will no doubt become."

"I just can't wait until we become true real ninja!' expressed Rin over to Dai, as he took his stand. 'To get a second chance to

go up against the clan and seriously kick some butt!"

Shiro look over at Rin; cast a hand in front of himself and shook his head. "No Rin, we train not to pursue the heat of battle, but to win if we are engaged in battle. Is that truly understood my student? I ask you to understand what I have taught you and I trust that you used my learnings wisely!"

"Yes, but Shiro there is some butt kicking right?" Rin asked shaking off the shame. Shiro did not reply however, which angered the red masked turtle.

"We'll kick no behind until we are ready Rin!" stated Leiko.

"Not even just a little?" said Rin not with that much confidence; holding his hand out with his thumb and figure barely apart.

"We will fight correctly Rin, that is the way of the ninja!' stated Leiko sternly; with his arms placed on his hips. 'We must stick to Shiro's teachings." Leiko added hoped his words would douse Rin's need to associate being a ninja with fighting, but Shiro deep down could see otherwise.

Rin however didn't warm too kindly to Leiko's words and voiced his feelings to the fern green box turtle. "Look you know I'm not questioning Shiro's teachings, but Leiko we've taken on the clan before. Yeah we can practice until we're blue in the face, but the fact is we've got to prove it to ourselves that we have the skills to take it to Shre`Ard."

"Rin you're clearly speaking out of turn, you know your teachings and I hope that we'll follow them!" stated Dai siding with Leiko.

"Maybe I am." Rin replied, turning to Shiro, bowing to show his continuing respect to his sensei and then looked away.

Nevertheless, Rin fully reckoned that it was truly the right time to get back on the street's to fight and didn't like being told to stay down in the shadows of the sewers; as to him it was more like hiding away as little children, so he took the chance to sneak out during the night alone.

Master Khan had come to Hun; he tried his very best to hide the worry on his face; standing with his hand over his mouth. "You are indeed one of my best men; you have done all that I have asked you and delivered tenfold on every damn occasion; that is why I come to you know Hun. I ask for you to head out tonight with a strong group; the ones you feel you can trust to aid you well clan members or my dragons.'

Finally he lowered his hand, actually standing more confidently and not standing up against the wall as if it was holding you up. 'And then head back to all the locations where these green perpetrators are said to have attack us and find clues; even locate them if you are able. Bring me the heads of the ones that are trying to stop the clan."

"I will not fail you my master, that I assure you." Hun truly and wholeheartedly believing in what he was promising his master.

-The Chancers The Heroes-

Hun following Khan's orders and gathered around him over twenty soldier; and as he solely back Khan and the dragon's on four of the group from member's chosen by Takehiko. "I have order's from Khan... He speaks for Shre`Ard and tonight you act on my orders.' because of the standing Hun had gained with Khan's aid no one seemed to question him nor backed away; not even the clan members which were taught by Takehiko. 'We awake to face a new enemy, Khan states them to be freaks of nature who wish to stop us, who wish to interfere in our business. Why then wishes to stand with me tonight to head out into our city and watch them fall..."

"That can not happen; I proudly stand with you." stated Tyrone is aligns with Hun.

"We too Hun!" agreed another member of the clan.

Soon the rest seemed to agree to head out with Hun as their leader. "We will leave the base of our master and bring them down! I know that they are not yet ones of the clan, but never the less I had sent Rob and Bow on ahead. I order them to be my eyes and ears, they have find one of them and now together as the clan we will punish the foolish ones for his actions and hope to draw out the others." The twenty or so members nodded to follow. Hun stepped forward and led them out into the town Rob and Bow firmly by his side.

Earlier that same night only a few street away from the clan's mansion a set of thugs were watching an elderly lady walk home; the pair just looked like a pair chancers that weren't criminal planners or anything. One was tall with a hooked nose, the other short build with short of a none threatening look about him, other than a lip ring and the clothes he wore. "The perfect cash cow; no doubt coming home from the halls with her winnings." the leader whispered into the others ear with a nudge to the side.

The other shorter mugger didn't look to brave in what was about to happen; and the tall leader tried to dismiss his feelings. "Right now here's how it's going to go down! You'll move it snatch the women's bag where I'll be down the street waiting for the hand over."

The other guy nodded as he shivered in response and it wasn't down to the cold weather, something was clearly bothering him, the guy was scared. "Is that wise... should we really be taking liberties like this?"

"What wrong with you man?' He snapped stepping in close and shaking the shorter man. 'Just get a bloody grip! You see this is why I have to drag you everywhere with me and the reason I forced you to get that thing!" He then let go, backing way and pointing down to the lip piercing.

"Yeah, but look I'm just saying shouldn't we be worried about the rumours flooding these alleyways!"

"Will you shut up about these blasted rumours; they are just that tales made up to keep the weak off the night; we are no feared babies got it."

"But... But what about this damn hockey crazed masked man!" he replied rubbing his hand over the part of his lip where the piercing was.

The older one just burst out in a quiet chuckle. "Blast it man I said shut the hell up will youa; for the last time there's nothing to worry about!"

"I've heard that he's able to take out five men with a single strike; and that he's so damn quick if you think about blinking then you missed the whole attack.' he then paused looked quickly around and lowered his voice. 'There's even whispers that the clan fear him!"

The leader shook his head and swiped a hand to single no way before him. "If he's taken out any member of the clan then I'd have no doubt heard about it; now get some sense the guys just a rumour nothing more nothing less. He's just not real damn it, so snap out of it and get out there and get me that bag or I'll make you blink!" He had talked the fare out of his colleague and now he was ready to strike.

The guys strolled innocently up the road; catching up with the lady; the one with the lip piercing past by the elderly lady chewing on his lip all the way, the lady must had heard his foot steps as she suddenly turning around to smile at him. The short guy was caught off guard and found himself kindly smiling back in response; before he quickly on up behind her and took hold of the strap and then snatching the bag clean away. The other one waited on further up the street; stand by with his back against the wall and one foot bent against it too.

The elderly lady felt him movement, clearly he hadn't quite yet perfected the manoeuvre, she instinctively tried to put up a fight and held tightly to the strap, but it was no use. "Hey what do you think you are doing lady just let go of the bloody bag and no one will get hurt!?" He snapped as be pulled away with the bag in his hands.

"Help muggers... HELP! Please wont someone stop them." Sadly no one around her seemed to listen nor cared to run in and help.

Up top-side Rin prowled the city's rooftops down on the city street's below the lady still cried out hoping to receive a drop of aid. Her cried were were heard by the slit ears of the turtle, Rin stopped dead in his tracks. "Time maybe to do some good!" stated Rin; moving his head from side to side and pulling off a few shadow punched.

He peered down from the roof where to stood to catch a glimpse of the lady as she tried to fight the mugger. The turtle saw the guy heading off with the lady's bag in his hand.

Rin up from his advantage point saw the young muggers meet up and quickly made the switch, and then together the pair turned down into a dark alleyway hoping to hide. He knew that he couldn't waste a further second and felt like this was his chance to attack. Rin places a hand on his sia with a smile. "Looks like I may get a chance to use you guys top-side after all." and heads down to try and stop the mugging.

Someone else had also heard the ladies cries for help and had also moved in; the dark mystery man moved in leaping from rooftop to the next. He then moved in close. "Don't fear lady!" she heard someone cry out triumph, at hearing this the lady spun around on the spot to just catch a glimpse of a figure heading down the alleyway after the muggers; everything then went pretty silent.

The chancers' ran further on taking a left then a right running across a busy road; one almost getting hit by a car the driver lowering his window waving his fist and heading down into another alleyway. The pair stopped when they believed to be far enough way; as they took their breath the older thug opened up the bag to see their prize; a purse filled out money and cards, a latest mobile phone and a ladies ring. The two muggers were to gripped in what they were doing as they didn't realise that two figures were moving in fast on them and now watching from the shadows.

Rin saw this as his chance to attack. "Time to take you two mugs down."

Then another voice was heard from the shadows. "That bag doesn't belong to the likes of you's two!" It was a deep and bitter sounding voice. The dark figure was making his presents known to the two thugs.

At hearing this the shorter mugger's left hand started to shack in fear. "Oh crud!" cried out the younger mugger, with a hard gulp.

The elder was startled, but he kept his composure a little bit better then is friend. "Just you keep your cool okay!" he replied not just to his friend, but to himself.

Then the street lamp above them shattered glass and sparks flying off; a black puck was then heard hitting the floor. The alleyway was almost covered in complete darkness, the only light from off the streets either side casting a dime light down on them.

The muggers looked around franticly at the dark shadows around them hoping to see who had said what. "Come on now damn you what the hells going on here... Who the hell are you?" cried out the elder demanding to know.

Realising that one of them may actually be the masked vigilante the shorter mugger's left hand started to shack in fear. "I said he would blasted come for us! I did try and worn you, but you never listen to me!"

"Look knock it off will you; there's no need to worry, whoever it is won't think about attack us." he replied tapping the side of his jean's pocket as he noticed one of the figures from the shadows.

The elder then could just make out the silhouette of a figure either side of them; however as he squinted he still couldn't quite make out just what type of weapons they were holding. The elder mugger then smiled as he pulled out a flick knife and raised it hight to show it off to the shadows. "If I were you I'd stay back man! Or I'll gut you guys up in two."

Rin threw his sai, which cut through the air knocking the guys knife from his hand; the mugger was just about to bend down and pick it up when the muggers came face to face with a guy in an old white worn hockey mask stepping out of the shadows followed by Rin.

Rin and Kair`Ral both at this point looked past the muggers and lock eyes with each other in surprise; as they both thought that they are here to actually protect the two mugger and the two of them took stands ready to come to blows.

The light of the moon shone down into the alleyway; the muggers looked at each over; one rubbing his eyes in disbelief at the realisation of being caught had hit them and the other hoping the his leader knew of a way out. They then turn to their left at green shadow figure and then quickly to their right over to guy in the mask.

The mugger quickly scrambles to his feet, and each of them had an authoritative presence, it was a frightful sight to witness. "What the bloody heavens is going on here?" snapped the elder; as he looked around, left at Rin and then looked right at Kair`Ral.

"See... see... see I damn well told you he was real!' called out the shorter guy, in a broken voice. 'But...but... but oh no you choice never to listen and now it's curtains for us now!"

"Crime is going down and Kair`Ral's here to dish out your penalty." Arnold stated placing a hand on his chest.

"Over my die body."

At hearing this Kair`Ral winked. "That could be arranged." he stated; Kair`Ral then came forward running in fast. The eldest mugger felt himself being pushed back; Kair`Ral had managed to pin the eldest mugger up against the wall.

Kair`Ral's eyes looked right at him through the mask. "Now I'm going to give you guys a chance; like I said that bag doesn't belong to you's, so here's what's going to happen you're going to hand over the bag to me and then I'm going to take you to the police. No arm no fowl." he stated, standing his ground.

"This bag is now in my hands, so its mine now! No arm no fowl don't make my laugh,' snapped the mugger still trying to show some standing. 'do you know how much cash there is in this bag?"

Rin saw Kair`Ral pull out his hockey stick and was about to strike; the youngest mugger came running over to help protect his friend; pulling him free at this the pair saw their chance; they quickly turned tail and bolted.

Rin tried to make a break after the muggers, but Kair`Ral had pushed by forcefully snatching the lead. "Hey now what's the big idea?" called out Rin rubbing his shoulder.

Kair`Ral called back over his shoulder not getting a clear look and stated. "You should have thought on your feet green; they're broken and its time to pay... And it up to Kair`Ral will make them!"

The muggers for that one split second there actually thought that they had gotten clean away; however one fell forward to the hard cobble stone floor and the other found himself once again face to face with Kair`Ral. "So wanted to get extra time then do youa; I'm the one who'll make the calls around here."

The masked man came in close to the mugger's face; this time there was going to be no chances; as he had the mugger held firmly up against the wall; pulling out his well used hockey stick from the bag that hung over his shoulder and held it firmly in his grasp.

The beat down started, the mugger called out in pain. Kair`Ral had started to beat him up, gotten in close with a few good swings. At seeing the anger in the guy's eyes through the hockey mask Rin stepped in to try and reason with him; stating. "Hey there slow it down lets take him to the cops." In hopes of prevent his anger from getting the better of him, but Kair`Ral was fuelled by rage. For Rin it was as if he was looking in a mirror at his own reflection for a second.

Kair`Ral merely laughed and brushed Rin aside. "Who made you the ref. These crooks have got to learn that crime doesn't pay."

"I'm no ref, but they don't need to learn like this!"

"And what would you know!" snapped Kair`Ral as he kicked the mugger in the chest as he was down.

Rin shook his head and replied. "More than you it seems; as you've gone too far." He then throw Kair`Ral aside and started to tie up the mugger.

Kair`Ral took a firm grip on Rin's shoulder ready to turn him around. "Look I don't wont to fight you!" said Kair`Ral addressing Rin, as he spun the box turtle around.

"Lower your stick the bud!" retaliated Rin, willing to go nose to nose with the masked vigilante. Rin looked him right in the green eye's of Kair`Ral to see the young twenty something face underneath.

"Look I've got a job to take care of here; now take a step back and let me do mine!" stated Kair`Ral; who didn't really seem all that bothered by the turtles appearance.

"Look wise guy not by you... Yeah these crooks need to pay, but let's just hand them over to police. Let them show these chancers the correct line of justice." snapped Rin.

"If that's the road you wanna go down then I'll play that card!" replied Kair`Ral, as he slowly lowered his stick.

The crooks were tied tightly up; Rin turned to look across at Kair`Ral seeing the need to ask. "So then taught guy why aren't you put off by my strange appearance?"

Kair`Ral just simply shrugged his shoulders. "Hey green skin, you know growing up in this tough neighbourhood there are things I've seen that would scare anyone else, but to me your skin isn't that much of a big thing!" he answered as he brought the eldest of the mugger's to his feet.

The lady slowly stepped forward as the pair attempted to return the bag to her, but their help wasn't well received as at the sight of the green giant turtle heading towards her she simply turned and ran off screaming down the street; leaving Rin with the bag in hand. Rin turned to Kair`Ral and stated "What was her problem!"

"Maybe it's the fact that a green giant is standing right before her is just too much to take in.' Kair`Ral replied just brushed it off. 'Well we can just hand the bag in at the friendly neighbourhood police station; with these two bums." However unbeknownst to either of them their actions were being observed and plans had been forged for an attack.

-The Sound The Brawl-

Rin and Kair`Ral heard a click of fingers; they quickly looked up as a figure step on on the edge of the rooftop above them. "Hun!"

"You knew this guy then hey?" said Rin looking over at Kair`Ral who nodded in reply.

Hun's voice echoing down the alleyway. "So the masked one is one for a fight and it seems he's found a member of the green blood to team up with."

Rin reckoned that he must mean him and actually found the nickname a bit funny. "Hey whoever you are just think again, we are no team!"

"But together we'll make you bleed!" chipped in Kair`Ral tapping his hockey stick in his free hand.

"It's no matter to me; I'm still going to have both your heads. Oh I have been waiting for some time to take you both down, so I'm happier either way." mocked Hun; deep down longing for this battle and ordered his men to attack.

Rin saw sight of the clan soldiers moving in from the shadows to the right. Kair`Ral had for a second broke away from Hun's gaze too caught sight of the soldiers coming in from the shadows to the left, Rin and Kair`Ral saw that the only option was for them to work together side by side if they wish to stand a chance of gaining any offense.

The pair came together Rin sai's in hand and Kair`Ral's hockey stick held tight the club end trying to strike; both at the ready to take the fight to the clan. "Hey shell you take the north west and I'll take the south east!"

"Yeah let's just see how many we can take down before you're toast." stated Rin in response.

Kair`Ral suppressed a chuckle; not willing to take his eye off his approaching enemy.

"You should have never stepped foot on our turf... Shre`Ard wants you dead."

"Well before my life is through they'll be a very long line.' snapped back Kair`Ral. 'So tell whoever you answer to too get a number like everyone else!"

"Enough of this messing around, get them!" Hun stamped his foot on the building, the force seemed to vibrate straight through the clan as they came forward.

Rin ducked the clan's first move, then coming back with a hard punch of his own. Kair`Ral took care of a double team, using their bull movements to his advantage.

Rin moved fast and hard; Kair`Ral was raw and rough, they had left members of the clan black and blue; Kair`Ral leaving a few purring with red. However in battle it was clear that the pair still had things to learn and soon the advance numbers took its toll; they were able to move in fast, surrounding Rin and then wrapping around to corner off Kair`Ral. 'This is it, we've got them... Just bay our time and beat them down... That's all we've got to do now!' thought Hun from up high.

Hun rubbed his hands together relishing the beat down the clan was dishing out. Kair`Ral was grabbed and taken to the ground and a clan member proudly and dominantly stood on his chest. "You little punk; daring to step in to fight us, your dead! You hear me dead." called out a clan member stepping in close and taking his heel and forcing it down hard into Arnold's chest.

It didn't really matter that he was wearing a padded vest the pain was sharp rushing through his entire body.

Rin was thrown out of the alleyway, he stumbled back across the bonnet of a moving city taxi. The passenger leaned forward, as Rin rolling down into the street. He placing his hand on the drivers shoulder; the driver's head did a double take and the passenger asked the driver. "What was that?" Him needing to know what his eyed had just witnessed.

Rin got to his feet, rubbing the side of his hip his shell taking the brunt of the impact. The drive turned around to reply as he saw the turtles face. "A... a... a giant turtle, it's just a giant turtle." and the drive put his foot down speeding away down the street.

Rin looked left to a man-whole cover then back right down the alleyway. 'You must be nuts Rin.. You must be nuts.' he thought as couldn't believe he was turning to run down the alleyway. He came running in to help the masked fighter. Rin got in the first shot so easily catching the clam soldier off guard, but as soon as it landed he could see that he had actually broken this guys nose.

While he was stunned, Kair`Ral got up and got in the second shot getting him just as hard with a strike to the left of his chin and the soldier was out before his head hit the side of the wall.

Once again they stood side by side. "This ain't going to work you know!' addressed Rin. 'We've truly got to go before we get our you know handed to us..."

"Okay what's the plan?"

"Oh no... No plan just fight you and I let's get out... Leave the plans to turtle's like Leiko or Din!" stated Rin with a low shack of the head.

"What there's more of you!?" But there was no time for Rin to reply. Rin was grabbed from behind and Kair`Ral punched in the head.

They were able to fight their way free from Hun and his soldiers. However the voice of Khan rung in Hun's ears. 'Bring me the heads of the ones that are trying to stop the clan.' But it was far too late to follow them; Rin and Kair`Ral make it down into the sewers and has Rin knew the sewers he was able to shack off without the approaching Shibano Ni Clan soldiers finding them. "Damn it; Kair`Ral I will find out who you are and when I do the Shibano Ni Clan will rain down upon you.' Rin heard the fain echo of Hun's voice. 'Then I will take the pleasure of killing you with my own bear hands. Do you hear me…? Do you hear me!" he cried out in anger that they had gotten away. His cries echoed through the pipes and tunnels of the sewer system.

Kair`Ral arrived back in his room and threw down the mask onto his bed; his body was still shacking twitching from the pain he was in as he stood at the window. There he took a few deep breaths, his hand clasping his chest as the true realisation of what he had just achieved hit him. "I will continue my fight; yeah those who wish to do wrong in this city; those who wish to swipe and steel will pay the toll! I promise they will feel my pain, I know my place in this world now. I'll be the one who punches those that justice can not touch!"

Shiro was not happy when Rin arrived back at the lair; Rin rubbed a hand over his shell and a foot scuffed the ground as he took his punishment. "You Rin will stay behind while the others go with my orders off to fight.' Leiko standing at their sensei's side. 'Rin you must understand if you don't have loyalty then you don't have unity. Unity is important, Leiko leads you into battle. I need each one of you to play their role, but if you head off from the group you may lead the others into danger and I tell you now cold one I can't let that happen."

"I don't want to lead them into danger sensei; there is a army of guys out there I have seen them. I only wish to fight for you and take this Shre`Ard down and fast!" replied Rin looking do the floor.

"I know you do Rin, but fight for us... Please you must fellow my teachings; fight as one.' he saw Rin nodded in agreement. 'Then Rin I must see it."

"I will prove myself to you Shiro, I will be the ninja you want me to be in time! Even someone Leiko can count on." Rin stated casting an eye on the box turtle.

Later on in the week Rin had shown with all his might that he had started to turn a corner; however it was in a sparring match with Miyuki watched by their sensei and the two other turtles; where Rin let it slip and his blood started to boil over once again. Things had started to get rapidly out of hand and much more intense and violent; Miyuki actually fighting to keep away from Rin. "Come on turtle settle down; it's just you can me... Just chill it will you Rin!"called out Miyuki holding out his arms stretched and lowering them over again. However Rin kept on coming move after mover, strike after strike the situation had broken down Rin going over and picks up a stick.

Rin was just about to throw it at Miyuki when Leiko managed to step in to calm things down. "Stop this, my Rin you have clearly gone too far this time, you truly are a cold one who need to find inner peace." said Shiro addressing Rin's valance outburst.

"You're always the hot head Rin, always throwing off the handle!" snapped Dia as he helped Miyuki up.

"Hey bro I hope your happy right now!" snapped Miyuki not even looking over at Rin.

"Have you lost your mind brother? Take a step back or I will have to take you down!" stated Leiko.

Realising what he was about to freely do Rin quickly drops the stick to the floor and attempts to make a mends; sadly for now the damage was too roar to fix. Rin turns his back on the others and heads to the platform of the station lair about to head up top-side to cool off, to cool off and to think his actions through. "Where are you going Rin?" Shiro asked.

Rin stopped and for a second turned to face the others. "Out... Away from here!"

"Should we stop him?" asked Leiko as he watched Rin walk away.

Shiro was quiet for a second and then looked up at Leiko before answering. "No for now we must let him go!' the rodent lowering his head. 'He as lost himself and must find his way amongst the shadows. Rin will soon return read to ask for our aid."

As Rin heads up to the skyline to cool off; there was no time for him to even start as he hears a commotion in the streets below. "What does this city never sleep!" he joked before heading off.

That same night after several nights of being Kair`Ral. Arnold was sitting by the window of his studio room; his Kair`Ral outfit laid out on the bed. Pinned to his notice board was an article from the paper the headline noted that crime within the city was at an all time low.

Arnold listened in on his police radio, waiting for reports of crime. A call soon came in from Chief Commissioner Stern, so he gathered up his sports weapons, put on his hockey mask and headed out into the night for battle.

Now in his Kair`Ral attire he heads out as the sun sets over the city to strike; heading through alleyway, running across rooftops and leaping over building to building hopping that he comes across the incident the was reported over the police radio.

-The Beauty within us all The Beast of us all-

Kair`Ral knew that it was the right time to act; he jumped down in front of the gang members. "Looks as if the games over for you; oh but don't you go threating you'll get to be another crime statistic in the newspaper at least that's something you can look back on inside!"

Rin looks down from his advantage point; a fresh smirk came to his face when he saw Kair`Ral handing out some street justice to a few gang members of the Shibano Ni Clan. "Looks like our hockey stick whiling vigilante is at it again; better get down there see if I can be of help!"

Rin runs to the edge and without a second guess or though leaps down as another to members came running in to aid their fellow clan member. "Good to see you've always got my back there green!" stated Kair`Ral.

"Yeah maybe we can be a team after all; you now if I can be sure you've got my shell from time to time." winked Rin patting his shell before he goes down and swipe kicks the thirst clam member down to the ground.

"Well as long as you keep your eye's on the fight green then yeah just maybe we can!" replied Kair`Ral throwing a punk at a clan member who was running up behind Rin. Rin actually flinching for a sec, which made the side of Arnold's lips under the mask twitch in a small grin.

Rin smiled in response reckoning Kair`Ral was doing a mighty good job, but even Rin was forced to admit as he was taking out his own frustrations out on a clan member, as Kair`Ral come in for a second strike that the masked fighter was going a little over the mark on his punishment methods.

Rin steps in pushing Kair`Ral off from breaking every done in the guys body. "Come on blast you, let's keep things in perspective; we've got the win here! Let's just back off before our goose it totally cooked."

Straight away this didn't go down well with Kair`Ral who tried to push by to dish out more punishment. "Are you for really Rin, I though we had an equal understanding... If he reckons he could commit the crime then Rin he must answer to the time and that's what I'm going to do."

Rin stood face in his way and hand firmly on Kair`Rall's shoulder continually blocking his way. "Not this again you get me Kair`Ral, look take a time out yeah! All it's time for really is for us to call the cops and leave these for them to find!"

Kair`Ral still wasn't about to back down; his tapped his hokey stick in his hand a few time; Rin just didn't know how it was about to do down. 'I'm not liking this... Not one bit, the green machine actually questioning me... Questioning how I get the job down... Oh no no way.' Were the thoughts running through his mind right that second as they both looked into each other's eyes. "Back off Rin this is my take down... I've seen what they can do... Our city is for the safer if I take them out this way!" he snapped sounding like he had taken offense.

"Yeah same here Kair`Ral, but your actions don't make a right... Like I said let's leave it to the police!"

Kair`Ral shacks his hand in disbelieve, almost finding it hard to breath naturally. "I through for a sec that I had you pegged Rin, that you seeks the same justice I do..."

Rin tilted his head from side to side, before stating as he got a hold of himself "You know that I do Kair`Ral and that's why you trust me, but I'm no means willing to take a killing blow to get a point across!"

Their arguing had allowed the clan soldier the opportunity to get to his feet and to deliver a kick to Kair`Ral. Kair`Ral clutched his chest; two further members came running in and grabbed him tight under the arms. Arnold tried to struggle to get free, but to no avail as Hun steps forward and looks down at Kair`Ral. The clan dragon lifted up Kair`Ral's face and glared right into his eyes. "Now then its time to rip off that mask of yours and see which city runt is cowering behind it!"

Rin looked up, saw Hun taking hold of the hokey mask; 'Whoever you are kid... If it helps let's keep it a secret.' Knowing there could be a beat down at the end of this he stepped right up between Hun and Kair`Ral, Rin taking stand with his weapons in hand a drop of sweat bring wiped from his chin.

Hun however doesn't seem to be all that fazed nor threatened by the Red-eared Slider Turtle. "Step aside freak I need to know who he is and take his head back to my master."

Rin isn't too overly please about being called a freak by someone who was head to toe in black and as a purple tinted dragon flowing from his neck across his shoulder and then down his arms. "Not going to happen, not tonight not ever... And hey you can tell that to your master." snapped Rin coming in with a few lunges of his sai. Hun for a big guy was fast on his feed and able to get out of the way of Rin's every move.

Rin thought fast and acted on his feet; quickly turning around and took out the two soldier's who held Kair`Ral with a quick flick kick, and even for his short size he hit his mark. Still feeling the affects of the kick from Hun Arnold felt to his knees. And before Hun could come in for another attack Rin helped Kair`Ral and the pair fought on with tooth and nail.

Kair`Ral shows his rough skill and is then able to knock Hun out cold with a good kick of his own and then follows through with a swing of his steel tipped hockey stick and then rides off down the alleyway; Rin catching saw of him on his motorcycle into the night. "Hey green here's to hoping we'll met again and hey next time let me fight how I wanna!" he called back leaving Rin standing in his dust.

Rin round around Hun slowly getting up; 'Gotta go... Gotta go and fast.' He saw his chance and within a blink of an eye he was gone in a cloud of smoke; leaving Hun and the others scratching their heads.

Stepping of the ladder and down into the pipping system of the sewers Rin made his return home to the lair; he informs the guys of his encounters with Kair`Ral. "The guy is great Shiro; and hay the best bit I think we can trust him... You know bring him on board."

Miyuki saw his brother enter the station and backed off; Rin seeing the look on his face. "You talk like nothing happened Rin... Just like everything's fine! Well know this Rin it ain't!" Leiko had to bit his tongue, he was about to tip over the mark.

"I did wrong yeah now things are changed... I just need the time to show you guys that... Miyuki hand out I'm sorry!"

"Oh and next bro your going to say it wasn't me its you right." said Miyuki not taking his hand.

Shiro came to his side and placed a hand on Miyuki's shoulder. "It will be better soon Miyuki; Lieko take your brother's see if you can find this Kair`Ral let's see if he's a person up topside we can trust...' Shiro lets the other three go and stop this crazy vigilante; as he wishes to take Rin off to develop a technique to keep control of his temper. 'As for you Rin please stay with me I do wish to speak with you."

"Look sensei out of respect could this not wait?"

"No Rin you will listen to what I have to say."

Rin had followed his sensei to the skyline of the city; the sound of the city still at this late hour in full flow. "I need you to forget what is going on around you Rin, don't let anything cloud you. It is important that you possess the right thinking, the right frame of mind; only then will one posses the gift of strength, knowledge and piece.' Rin heard his teacher's words, but still doubted himself lowering his head to gaze to look down at the roof. 'I have tried so hard to channel you anger Rin, but more still remains; anger clouds your mind and you will not move on until you become its keeper."

Shiro leans in and held his student's head up, so that their eyes could met again. "You are unique my student amount your other brothers, as you wish to fight your enemies alone. On the other hand I ask of you please do not forget you brother's! And please Rin do not forget me, as I am here for you my student."

Rin merely shrugged off his sensei's hand, but still looked Shiro in the eye. "Well maybe I'm like Dai said; just a hot-head!"

Shiro know point blank that this wasn't true and he hoped to get this through to him. "You are the most emotional of your brother's Rin.' Rin nodded in agreement. 'But you must understand that your rage and anger aren't weaknesses either."

The rat could sense that this was confusing for the young turtle to understand and continued. "When you feel emotion of any kind, then it will come through as anger. This is only because anger is the only emotion you know how to deal with Rin. Things in time will become different if you let your other emotions come through."

"But..."

Shiro interrupted him knowing what Rin was about to say. "But if you show these emotions then you are convinced that your brother's will come to see you as weak and that they'll look down on you."

Rin looked away; Shiro saw that maybe he had hit a nerve. "Rin you must have faith in your brother's and know that they would never view you any more or less then the turtle you are!"

"Sensei to be a good warrior I must..." However this time Rin stopped himself he could find the words needed to express his feelings.

"I had hoped that you would listen to me my student, Rin a good warrior must be aware of all their emotions and to appreciate them not to be governed by just one!"

Rin lowered his head in shame yet again, swallowing hard, he was unable to look his sensei in the eye any more. Rin hesitated for a second before he answered truthfully. "Shiro I know that I must change, but I'm sorry I don't think I can!' Rin admitting not only to himself, but also to his sensei. 'Apart of me tells me to truth you sensei and to let you guide me; however there's a part of me that just doesn't wanna change how I act."

"That is all fine and well Rin; I picked your name wisely it seems... But to work with your brother's it is important to work on each other's skill and nature." Shiro understanding just how Rin felt, but also taken aback by his response. 'But Rin would you rather be controlled by your fits of rage and anger?"

Rin looks back up on what had happened with his brother's Dia and Miyuki and then back on how violent Kair`Ral had gotten; Rin looked to face his sensei and shacks his head and answers sharply. "No of course not my sensei, but if I change than everything would change too; and I just don't know if I truly want that to happen!" Rin ending sounding somewhat defensively. 'However ... it just … It is my anger and rage that protects my brothers and you! I may not be the leader, I may not even be the brains and I know I'm definitely no joker; all I do know is I'm good at what I do and that's protecting the one's around me!"

Rin saw the warm smile on Shiro's face, he listened as Shiro told him. "And that is just your way Rin! And my teaching will still let you protect us, just with a better skill and control."

Around midnight the other three turtles; Leiko, Dai and Miyuki were still out in the dark streets of the city in search of Kair`Ral, but to no luck. "Maybe the guys like a ghost!" stated Miyuki, as he took a stop to catch his breathe after leaping over from one roof top to another.

"What do you mean like a ghost?' questioned Dai with a shack of the head. 'The guy's got to be out there somewhere, he couldn't have just disappeared!"

"In that case we better keep moving; if this Kair`Ral is out there as a one man show we've got to find him for both our sakes... Get him to see sense or maybe get him on board!"

"Look if what Rin says about the hot-head then to tell you the truth brother I actually don't think that's going to be possible, unless the guy gets kicked in the head a couple of more times!" laughed Miyuki.

"Well whatever the case let's get a move on." stated Leiko taking the lead and heading out further into the town; before moving onto the next block and then restarting the same search again.

Meanwhile back across town Rin and Shiro are still talking things through. Rin stilling on the brick edged wall and Shiro standing before him leaning on his cane. "I know that you are troubled Rin, but things will be okay!' Shiro stated reassuringly. 'Your ninja skills are at its peak there is only one final lesson that you and your brothers need to learn, but for now that must wait. I know that you find it hard living your life all the away down here in the sewers underground."

"You've got that right sensei." chipped in Rin.

Shiro truly did sympathised with Rin's situation and place in life. "Your teenage mind is baud and eager, but you should never stop practising the heart of ninja! You are all still young, but one day I will be gone Rin. I will never ask you to be like your brother's, all I will ask of you is to all stand together as one when the time comes."

"I may be a hot-head, but I'm not reckless I will stand by the others Shiro no matter what it takes. That you can count on!"

Shiro looked back fondly as he played the memories of their growing up in is head. "I am sorry that I am lecturing you Rin, but it is truly important that you learn with my help to control that rage that controls you."

Rin bowed and pulled out his sai. "I guess!' he sighed, knowing that keeping calm would lower him in his sensei's eyes at least. 'Sensei I am sorry."

"Please there is no need to apologies my brave student for who you are; just focus on bettering yourself as much or as little as you can!"

"Mmmmmm, okay Shiro I will." stated Rin calmly, realising what his sensei was trying to get across to him.

Rin's words pleased Shiro, still slightly uncertain if Rin did in fact feet the weight ease from his shoulders slightly. "Good Rin use my teachings correctly, I suggest we find some calm in our actions this day and move forward."

But as this was said Hun and his group of clan soldiers were watching on. "Well well well, the green freak is an ally to the rat. Even better." smiled Hun as he rubbed his chin.

Shiro held up his hand to signal silence. "What is it sensei?"

"Trouble!' replied Shiro his nose catching the sent of Hun's soldiers moving in. 'It is time to battle side by side, please now Rin enter into the battle with calm. Prove to your enemies that you can still defeat them."

The pair realised a too late however; hearing Hun's orders to surround Rin and Shiro. The Shibano Ni Clan jumped out; Rin gripped tight his sai, but Shiro raised a hand to his stop him. "Know when to fight my student, the face of this battle as changed so quickly; so let's see what they've got to say first!" Rin saw his sensei wink.

Hun steps forward as the clan members parted, the large figure rubbed a hand over his shaved head and looked directly at Shiro. "It seems our master as a message for you!" Hun throw a screen-waver onto the roof of the building.

A figure of the Shre`Ard formed before them. -So Yoshi Hamato you actually believed that you could hide from me forever; oh how mistake you were. Yoshi you are a man that as caused me great defeat so to fulfil my victory I must end this.

I will have this city in my pocket and you will die at my hand!- The figure then disappeared; Hun for a second cracked a smile. "Oh how my master wants you gone, and I'm going to be the one to hand you over to him!" Hun gave the node.

"Time to fight now hey sensei." said Rin telling Shiro rather than asking a question. Shiro nodded and as the clan members quickly stood ready a battle royal ensues.

The three turtles had continued on with their search moving through the second sector of Dia's city map, again with no luck. The trio had checked and double checked every single rooftop, alleyway and back corner in search of the hockey stick wielding fighter. "He's got to be out here somewhere!" stated Leiko wiping the sweat from his brow. The others hearing the utter frustration in his voice.

"Yeah if you go by Rin's description he's not one to miss." replied Dai.

"Well all I know is he must be the worst human to play hide and seek with.' joked Miyuki, which drew a look from off the other two. 'What? What did I say?" questioned Miyuki looked puzzled as Leiko and Dai run off ahead.

A few rooftops over Kair`Ral was sitting re-tuning his radio went he caught a glimpse of what was going down. He picked up his binoculars and saw the clan surrounding Rin and a rat.

Kair`Ral jumped to his feet and quickly came across to join in the fight.

The clan members turned to face Kair`Ral. "Do you guys mind telling me what you are doing with my green friend and his rat?" With his hockey stick ready in hand. With no answer Kair`Ral jumped in rather trigger happy with his hockey stick and within a few seconds he had taken a number of the fighters clean out.

The three of them fought valiantly, Rin even thought that they had the fight won and asked. "Come on yeah, how do you think you can defeat us." But as the clan grew in number the soldiers slowly managed to regain the upper hand.

Rin heard Hun called out. "Attack!"

"Good answer... good answer." replied Rin, quickly seeing that they were over powered and out numbers.

Rin was cut off fighting his own battle; he was forced with no way of getting to his sensei Shiro fall to the floor. "Leave him alone blast you, fight me... Fight me!" he called out. However not one of the soldiers seemed to give him even a glance, a number of clan members then tied him up; Kair`Ral at this stage trying to make a move, but was held a buy.

Five soldiers managed to drag Shiro away; heading back no doubt to Shre`Ard. Rin was defeated, his weapons were dropped off the roof and the clan then actually threw him through a rooftop skylight.

Hun then stepped forward, a nasty grin of pleasure across his face and ordered his team. "Tie him up... Let's leave them to route in their sorrow... Kair`Ral knows now that he is now match for our power." Hun actually tensing his muscles. He stood back and watched in delight as his long time enemy was tied him up in chains. Hun turned and left him hanging from his legs.

It was a few hours later when the other turtles had could across

the tied up and beaten Kair`Ral; as they came in closer the true damage was seen; Rin lied out on the floor below, the pair were beaten up pretty bad. "Shiro, where's Shiro!" stated Rin went he opened his eyes. Things still looked rather blurred as Dai came in to help him to his feet.

Leiko asked them where Shiro was, Kair`Ral informed them of what had happened to their rat friend. "If Shre`Ard has Shiro then do you have any idea what he would do to him? Well do you Rin?"

"Look guys I'm sorry okay!"

"Yeah you're always sorry aren't you Rin; always having to apologies when your actions as others. Well I truly hope your damn well happy now!" snapped Leiko; closing his cool for a second; his arms crossed over his chest and glaring across at his brother.

"Look you know I didn't want anything like this to happen."

"Yeah, but what are we going to do now!" Things looked like they were about to break down between Leiko and Rin.

On seeing this Dai stepped in and stated. "Guys look there's truly no time for blame here we've all got to keep together on this and fight to save our sensei."

"Your actions Rin as gotten our sensei taken." said Leiko rather arrogant for a second.

"Well maybe I should just take my actions and leave while you sit here on your butt and do nothing." Rin sounding rather cold hearted.

"No one said we were going to do nothing!"

"Than what's your plan then great leader?" snapped Rin questioning Leiko's actions.

Leiko frowned back at Rin. "I am not your great leader; I just want us all to just stick together... Fight like our training; as one!"

"Well you truly act like you are." interjected Rin hands on his hips.

"So then fellas let's see if I can be of help." Kair`Ral chipping in as he saw the guilt Rin was feeling.

Leiko nodded. "It's our duty to rescue Shiro from the clan; if you can help us Kair`Ral then consider yourself a friend."

The Turtles decide to take Kair`Ral into their confidence and he gladly agreed to help them locate Shiro and free him from Shre`Ard, he had become a somewhat reluctant ally to the turtles.

"I'm Leiko and these are my brother's at arms..." he said introducing himself and Dai to Kair`Ral.

Leiko was just about to point over at Miyuki, who cut him off so that he could introduce himself personally to their new ally. "And me well I'm Miyuki, meaning deep snow silence! I'm the glue that keeps this group together!' The other turtles and the man beside them rolled their eyes, but Kair`Ral could help smile slightly from under his mask. 'What you all know it's true, so don't go denning it!"

"For now call my Kair`Ral, who I am ain't important right now okay; and you'll know soon enough!' Arnold held out a hand hoping that they would understand his reasons for secrecy. 'Its good to finally me Rin's bothers, though I just wished it was under better circumstances!" Leiko stepped forward and gladly shook his hand.

-The Eighth The Last-

Shre`Ard walks into to the cell where his soldiers had held Shiro captive. "So this is the creature that has coursed me all this trouble... The one I'm to be believed his Yoshi"

Shiro looked his captor in the eyes. "It looks as if you have forgotten Saki; after all these years I can't believe we are face to face again!"

"I still have my doubts creature, still don't know what as coursed this... Coursed you' asked Shre`Ard, Shiro seeing the confusion in Saki's eyes as he had no idea what had happened. 'I no longer answer to that name."

"I am the reason why you hide your face Saki."

Shre`Ard eyes widen as the memory quickly splashed across his mind; in anger he raised a hand and smacked Shiro across the face to try and listen the rodent. "Do not speak that name again; that person as weaknesses. I am Shre`Ard; I stand with no weakness I stand with power, with stature and with premise."

Shre`Ard lifted up Shiro's face. "How can you be, truly what are you freaks... How can those turtles know how to fight like they do!" he ordered for answers, but in silence he roared in anger. 'You will answer me!"

"Years ago Saki, the person within me knew your brother Nagi. We both fell in love for the same girl." started Shiro.

"Shen Tang." interrupted Shre`Ard softly; knowing the story all too well.

To which Shiro nodded. "The green heart of jalousie shone its ugly head. I was the cherished pet of Yoshi and I am Yoshi. I knew you as Saki and feat then took you to this place as a member of the Shibano Ni Clan. Yoshi was willing to leave love and family behind; he so wished to bring you back home... I was to be the last drop of memory he had!"

"This can not be so!' Shre`Ard shouted, his doubt wavering slightly. Truly not knowing how a creature of this kind could stand before him. 'This can not be true... You are nothing more than a monster and I will end you!"

"The ooze you seek..."

"Mmmmm...What of it rodent; what tells do you have." stated Shre`Ard actually intrigued.

"It made me... changed me into this, there sees to be some side effects, when we sat side by side the two of us Yoshi and me; we became one as the ooze flowed over us!"

"Mmmm... Now that is a great idea, an army of monsters at my side.' stated Shre`Ard. 'You have let slip to much information."

Shiro looked saddened he had realised that he had just given Shre`Ard the secret that could push his power further over the underworld of this city and the country, but then Shiro knew that he still had the upper hand. "Oh, but Saki all the ooze was destroyed at my hand. That night you had your soldiers attack the T.G.R.I building I was the one who took the ooze from you."

Shre`Ard straightened up and laughed, Shiro didn't expect that reaction from Shre`Ard. "My brave soldier walked into those fires on my power and plucked for his leader a drop of the ooze and enough information to try again!"

"Try Shre`Ard and know this; even if you kill me this day, my turtles will come for you and end this hold on this city you believe you have." stated Shiro lifting his head high.

"Oh Shiro, you sound so please, but oh let your four turtles come. Let them see my power, I hope them come as they will face my hand and I will kill each one and end all who hand in my way."

Shiro couldn't believe what he was hearing. 'Is Saki truly lost forever within that mask.' he thought, as Shre`Ard was turning to leave the cell. "I counted on your brother as a friend; I thought of him sometimes as a brother; yes I hide the truth of my love from him, but you must see Saki I never wished for all of this to have happen. You saw our kiss and were so ready to hurt him. Jealousy consumed him in mere seconds and his mind wavered. Everything changed that day, everything! And still it costs us both to this day and those actions still fail your hunt."

Shiro's throat felt dry and sore; after a few seconds he tried to speak again. "I never asked for this fight I only asked to save you from the lost path!"

"I have full trust in my path Shiro, I follow it accordingly. Soon the step's that I've taken will lead to your end Hamoto... Meaning you will be able to rest forever." and with that said Shre`Ard left his prisoner in pure darkness.

Hun approached his master, who was looking in on the rodent. "Please master excuse me for asking, but what is the importance of this some called great sensei anyway?"

Master Khan turned his head to face of his loyal follower Hun for a brief second, his eyes narrowed and his noise flared. "Shiro or should I say Yoshi Hamato used to be friends with our greater master's brother until his death; Yoshi had seconds before betrayed their friendship with love. Shre`Ard knew that he was one of the best and that you could have taken him down if he had so wished. Our master Hun provided the wiser and forced him into hiding therefore no one would have to ever hear his lies.' Did Khan believe his own words as he continued. 'Now let me put it this was; if Shiro had the stomach for it and join our clan then he would have equalled the might of an great clan leader."

"If that is true then why is this beast still alive? Why not just let me slit his throat, and let's see the colour of his blood?" chipped in Hun, knowing that he may have just crossed the mark.

Master Khan didn't answer; his reply was. "That does not concern either of us for now Shre`Ard as his reason; all that should concern us is training both Rob Castro and Bow Laird into great fighters so that they are soon enough chosen to be clan members. Is that clear Hun?" This was no question Hun knew that this was a demand.

"I will see to it my master!" and Hun bowed and walked away.

'Why ain't you dead Shiro, what great hold do you have over my master!' though Khan before he walked away.

Kair`Ral and the turtles follow the clan back to their headquarters in the down-town Japan district. Kair`Ral moved them in close, they hide behind a taxi cab; Leiko looked around he definitely couldn't see a definitive way inside. "We've gotta get into there and fast, there's no telling what they'll do to our sensei!" addressed Leiko.

"Yeah I get that Leiko, but how?' asked Dai pointing to the guards at the gate. 'There are eight clan soldiers between us and the door, and then there's no telling how many inside!" Leiko didn't see Kair`Ral and Rin nudge each and other as the pair heard the footsteps of a patrolling clan member and signalled each other to move in.

"Well we could create a diversion, which means one of us isn't going in!" He was about to look over at Miyuki.

When Rin interrupted by asked. "Sorry how many did you say there were?"

"Eight!" answered Dai. And then with a node and a wink the pair moved into action.

Miyuki looked over his brother's shoulder. "Or guys we could just do that!" he stated as he draw their attention to Rin and Kair`Ral's taking out the eight clan soldiers.

The hockey masked teen then pulled out a silver baseball bat and took a swing knocking clean out the clan member. "Look the coast is clear, we haven't that much time. We better get inside as fast as we can!"

"Or yeah that might work." stated Leiko as Rin threw down the last of the eight soldiers to the ground.

"Okay now guys this is it; let's do this on the count! We'll make our move on the count of four. Okay?' stated Leiko. Kair`Ral and the turtles nodded in agreement; Rin deep down would have gone on 1, but kept his stand by his brother's. 'Okay then 1... 2... 3... 4... let's do this!"

A clan soldier came running to his master side, he lowered his masked covered head and informed Shre`Ard of the bad news. "Master, it appears out defenses have been breached."

"The turtles...' The master said to himself. 'Well then let them come... I want you all to take them out damn it. The might of the clan together as one.. We'll make them wish they've never been touched by that oozes."

"As you wish."

"Find Takehiko have him lead the other elite soldier into battle."

Shre`Ard said orders his best soldiers to fight the turtles.

Kair`Ral and the four turtles were now inside with swift force quickly moving through the lower hallways until they were stopped in their tracks; they had came face to face with Shre`Ard's top general Takehiko. "You four keep going, I will take care of this guy." stated Kair`Ral cracking his knuckles.

"You heard him; we've still got a job to do, so let's going... Let's do this as a team!" stated Leiko, not even questioning the need to stay and fight. Rin was the only one to look back, but he got the node from off his new found ally to say everything was going to be okay.

"You sound brave young one! Well it is a foolish move! You feel that you have what it take to defeat Takehiko, you American's are so full of yourselves." mocked Takehiko.

"Yeah well I think I've got one or two moves that can prove you wrong!" replied Kair`Ral.

"Oh is that so, it will be a fight that ends in your death boy." snapped Takehiko taking fighting stands.

The turtles ran forward, their weapons ready for battle. As to their training by sensei Shiro the four turtles worked as one unit using their ninja skills to take on the clan's might.

After Kair`Ral had defeated the ninja master Takehiko, he forced Takehiko to tell him where Shiro. Kair`Ral came running to where they have Shiro held captive. The rodent lifted his head. "Who are you?"

"A friend... Arnold Jones.' he replied, putting Shiro's hand over his should and helping him up. 'Now let's got out of here, to the others!"

Seeing that his best elite members get beaten down on their behinds by these four mutant didn't truly rest well with the clan master. Shre`Ard stepped forward into the fray for his greatest battle, this was it he came face to face with the turtles. "This is my victory; I will make sure that none of you leave here alive. Now you must face me the Shre`Ard; the one your sensei as trained you all these years to battle."

"So you must be Shre`Ard!" stated Rin, as the turtles came face to face with the steel masked man.

"That I am turtle. You have the skills of Shiro, let's see if you taught you will.' stated Shre`Ard stepped forward. 'You have caused me so must trouble over these years and it will come to an end tonight." The fight led on out to the roof of a building, the four ninja turtles ran forward, their weapons ready for battle and the turtle's fought hard and well.

"Time to finish you off once and for all."

"I'll take care of him." stated Rin, leaping in to fight. However, the others watched in amazement Rin just knocked to the floor.

"On paper he is good, I've got to give him his dues!" pointed out Dai, and Shre`Ard easily out manoeuvres the four of them in combat.

Shre`Ard raises his hands high into the air; he feels that his victory is in his hands. The turtles soon took a step back and regrouped. "Now just at what point exactly did we start being beat?" asked Miyuki.

Leiko smiled and replied. "We're better than this, we're not finished just yet."

"Yes we must fight in unity!' stated Rin and eventually Leiko was able to fight and wounds Shre`Ard with his sword. 'Now Shre`Ard where is Shiro, where is our senei?" Rin demanded to know.

Shre`Ard laughed through his mask. "Shiro is gone, your rat your so called great teach is dead!"

"No!" called out Leiko, fighting on through the tears and anger.

Leiko is caught up in his emotion and was taken hostage by Shre`Ard who threatened to kill him if the turtles don't throw down their weapons. "Now!" he roared.

As Rin, Dai and Miyuki throw down their weapons. "Shiro didn't teach you as I would! I would have had you three to over power me and let this one die to gain victory." and Shre`Ard is ready to kill Leiko, but Shiro appears with Kair`Ral.

"Enough Saki!" cried Shiro.

"It pleases me to see that you are free from my shackles.' Shre`Ard held Leiko tighter, and even though he laughed to show dominance deep down he truly did fear the presents of Shiro. 'Now stay back rodent or I'll have his green hid cut into peace's."

"You are truly filled with rage, I plead with you Saki stop this madness and listen to sense!"

"No Shiro, now more than ever we could rule this world together!"

Shiro shook his head at Saki's ludicrous statement and clenched his fists tight. "No Saki, don't you see what you have done; you follow an evil path. I will have to fight you and have to stop this."

"You challenge me Shiro; no it will not end this way. If you won't join me then I will rule alone and you will die for what you did to me, you may have ended all that I once was, but tonight I will not allow it to happen again."

"For what I did? I have misunderstand something here, was it not you who were the one that took the first step Saki."

"Don't you dare call me that, don't you dare to ever call me that again. I am no longer Saki and will never be again!' Shre`Ard touched his mask, remembering the old rat who had injured him years prior. 'You took my family away from me Yoshi, and now I will end this once and for all!"

"Enough of this, you're mad Saki; the Shibano Ni clan were the ones who have destroyed you!"

"I will not listen to any more, I will finish what I started back in Japan and end you." and as he tossed Leiko aside.

Shiro came to his student's side; the other's came over to protect their brother. Shiro knelled down hands together, he looked directly at each one in turn. "I must admit that when you first went up to the surface I truly believed that you weren't ready, however that option as now changed for the better. The four of you are not only ready to become heroes; it was indeed your destiny and if the feat of the world is at stake I am pleased to know that the outcome rests at your feet."

Leiko seemed humbled by his sensei's words and the four turtles bowed in equal respect for their teacher. "I will not let you down Shiro, you have guided us to this point; I hope as leader the team doesn't fail." stated Leiko.

"Now please go my student's I wish you well.' The four turtles head out through the tunnel, Shiro placed a firm hand on Leiko's shoulder. 'My wise leader I must ask to speak with you for just one second."

Leiko turned to face Shiro, nodded and held back allowing his other three brother's to run on ahead. "Shiro what is it?"

"It is truly important that no matter what happens here tonight that you don't forget the mission. The clan needs to be stopped, Saki must fall or the clan will ground and Saki will only get more powerful!" Shiro lowered his head, he knew the great burden and responsibility he had just placed on the young leader.

As Leiko got to his feet, he full understood his roll and why Shiro had spoke the way he did to him and he had no trouble replying. "I will do all that I can senei, I promise with my heart the clan will end!"

"Get in close it's the only way we can beat him!" called out Rin. Dia nodded. Rin, Dia and Miyuki moved in on Shre`Ard.

The three turtles battled on doing all that they could to bring Shre`Ard down, he was however too quick and to underhanded to be defeated. "None of you can do a thing to stop me, I will not fall to monster!' called out Shre`Ard. 'I am the power I will see to it that no one will ever forget that."

"We are no monsters Shre`Ard! You are the one who wishes to scare the innocent and to dominate the ones who seem weaker then you; they are the makings of a monster." snapped Leiko in reply, standing now ready to continue the fight.

Shre`Ard seemed to actually welcome Leiko's reply and laughed, their blades struck each other's. Leiko battled the clan master back; Leiko then came at him with a fast spin kick and Shre`Ard dropped his sword, it looked like he was defeated. He went down on one knee and looked up at the turtle. 'It is over, my enemies as turned his back, that will be their down fall.' though Shre`Ard.

Rin saw the Shre`Ard slowly get back to his feet. The clan master clutched his chest with his left hand he was in great pain, but battled on, he then picked up a steel of the sword. And the clan master charged at Leiko, using the blade as a lance. Shiro managed to push Leiko aside saving the young turtle. "Teacher." cried out Rin.

And as Leiko opened his eyes shaking off the pain, the turtles watched as Shiro used one of Miyuki nunchaku that had been knocked out of the turtles hand in battle, to wrap the chain around the lance and had thrown Shre`Ard full over the roof's ledge.

Shre`Ard had managed to hold on to the ledge precariously, Shiro jumped forward and grabbed hold of his hand in the nick of time. Shiro looked into his enemies eyes and first on second saw the same young boy who saw the kiss that day all those years earlier. "Please Saki why do you prosiest with this insanity? It still doesn't have to end like this, your future can end differently if you wish it! Please help me and I can bring you up."

In almost a whisper Shre`Ard stated. "I will never listen to you Shiro! I will finish what I started back in Japan and end you."

"You see to it that this city will fall to nothing, because of me... You're mad the Shibano Ni clan as destroyed you!"

"Oh but I'm sorry Shiro however it must end like this; I can not let an enemy of the clan continue on. You are nothing more than a rat caught in my trap; it was written so long ago that it should!' In a final attempt to kill Shiro; he with his free hand revealed a small dagger and came to stab Shiro in the hand. 'I will see to it that the clan are the true rulers and lay this city to waste. Power to the Shibano Ni Clan."

Shiro was able to block the dagger, however in doing so the rodent's grip on the hand of Saki is released and Saki falls into the darkness. Takehiko and the soldiers of Shibano Ni Clan realise that it is better for them to leave to fight another day and leave the battle.

The turtles reunite with their father figure. "The battle is over for now. Tonight we rest as I know the war as just begun." Shiro said sombrely.

"Shiro I am sorry.' said Rin stepping forward. 'I didn't mean for this to happen." Even Leiko admitted to himself that he would have wished for a different outcome; Shiro had wanted him to carry out the ending point, but the outcome may have been what had what he wanted, but he didn't carry out the finishing blow as he believed Shiro had required.

Shiro had sadly missed Leiko's change in demeanour and addressed Rin. "I know that my son, but this truly was not your fault here. The Shibano Ni Clan were the ones who attacked us, they run on hatred and they are left with nothing. I Rin never won't that to happen to you; as your sensei I have great lessons to teach you my boy and they got in the way of that."

"I am your student and I am ready to learn all you have to offer." was Rin's reply.

Police sirens could be heard filling the neighbourhood and Shiro saw the cars pull up in front of the mansion; he saw the same young officer from the airport all those years ago, but the officer had aged a little and was in a high ranking uniform; and now it was his young rookies following his orders.

Shiro had realised that things were changing. "Come now my students it is time for us to step back into the shadows; the night is over sadly our battle continues on." The four turtles nodded and they returned back into the sewers.

Back in their sewer lair Shiro walked away from his students; Leiko saw this and followed after him; Shiro had a picture in his hand. "We did it together Shiro!"

However the eldest turtle couldn't still shack off his sensei's words from before. "Yes that we did my wise one, tonight is for celebration. After all it truly isn't everyday where you can say that you made the city save from an underworld crime syndicate is it!" replied Shiro in response to Leiko.

"That's right!' stated Miyuki as he stood with the other's in the room way. 'So who saved the world?"

"Muyiku always to joker!" commented Shiro happily.

"We saved the world!" expressed Leiko, Rin and Dai together.

"Yeah!" called out Muyiku hit off a high-three.

A couple of days later; after a drenching rainstorm Kair`Ral walked through the dark light street of the city that never sleeps; the white mask hide his smile as he watched from the shadows a nice young couple in love step out of a taxi cab and slowly headed down the bubble infested street.

The girl had stopped from time to time to take a look at the shop windows, where as the guy was just enjoying the fresh moist air. Kair`Ral turned his back on the happy couple and headed down a back alleyway, where he came across Shre`Ard's discarded mask. "One battle to win back this great city is over, but the win as only just started and I'm going nowhere until it's a war I've won." he stated in a cold soft laugh.