A/N: Alright, this may be my last update before NaNo. If you don't follow me on Facebook (as a like page using my account name), I'll give the update here. For the month of November, I plan to work on my original stuff. At least I'm going to try. So updates for this will be less frequent. If you can hold on for a month, I'll be back with more Taming the Beast in December!


Tit for Tat

There was something very irritating about listening to someone pace. It didn't help that it never seemed to cease – unless you count the brief whistle of a golf club singing through the air every dozen steps. April's eyes narrowed at the laptop propped up on her legs. She could feel that distracting frustration bubbling beneath the surface. There had to be something to block it out with. Hell, she'd even take her apartment blowing up again. Then she could worry about that instead.

Her tongue clicked against the roof of her mouth as words danced across her screen. With each passing second, her comprehension of it dwindled. She knew it wasn't due to exhaustion. Yes, she was tired, but she worked on less sleep before. Her gaze darted towards the source, her eyes narrowing at the muscle- brained idiot she used to consider her boyfriend.

As if noticing her look – which was doubtful as the laptop partially obscured her face – he stopped his ceaseless pacing. The golf club raised, poised to strike at her lamp like it was the enemy. "Dammit, why's it taking so damn long?" He demanded.

"You didn't have to come if you're just going to threaten my furniture. These things take time." April hardened her look. "Why don't you make yourself useful and fix some coffee?"

"I'm no good at this waitin' shit. I shoulda jus' gone with you all so I could help Leo." Casey turned on his way to the kitchen, but froze, withdrawing at her look. "Awe fuck, what I'd do?"

"Everything," April huffed before looking back down at the laptop. "The pacing for one."

"Oh." He carelessly laid his golf club against the wall before finishing his walk. "You coulda said something. Why you gotta be like that?"

"Figured you'd get the point eventually. And what do you mean by that, exactly?"

"I mean, yer always harping on me fer no reason."

"Maybe you deserve it?" April set the laptop on the cushion beside her, succumbing to the inevitable failure of her concentration. "Or is that too generous to say? Why are you here anyway? Did you get bored of working the streets? Because that doesn't seem all that likely."

Casey appeared to cringe at her gruff tone. "Mikey updated me. Said he was bored so we got ta talking." He moved about her small apartment like he owned the place, even though he still had his own dinky little rat hole he called home. Seeing that only irked her more. "Didn't even know Raph got left behind 'til he said so. I knew they was going to Bishop's. I was with Raph when he got that message. Still. You was with them and didn't say nuthin'. I expect that from tha guys – they're always gettin' inta trouble wit'out sayin' nuthin' – but you…"

"I was busy." She flashed him a sharp look. "It's not like you're ever around anyway. No, you'd rather be tempting fate out there!" She wildly gestured at the window.

"Ape…" Casey's expression hardened, but his tone bordered on light. "I'm here now, ain't I? I'm even making yer coffee. What more do ya want from me?"

The wonderfully bitter aroma of fresh brewed coffee hit her, but her expression remained sour. "Yeah," she scoffed, "For the turtles, maybe. At least they come before your late night brawls." She muttered the last line under her breath.

Before Casey could respond, a crash resounded through the room. April jumped to her feet and stared in boiling rage at what was once a vase lying scattered in pieces before her. Casey's golf club – the culprit of this crime – seemed to snicker at her, all too happy to crush what little love she still held for it's owner. Maybe it was jealous? Her hands formed fists at the thought. There was no reason to be. It was over. That vase, the last gift he gave her during the peek of their foolish relationship, was the sign she was dreading.

"Oops," Casey's voice was coming from beside her. She didn't notice his approach, but now wished he hadn't dared. "Want me ta clean that up fer ya?"

All that rage came out at once. She whirled to face him, her fists poised to strike if her words failed. "Get. Out!"

Casey took a single step back, but otherwise blew her off like she was nothing more than a yapping puppy. "Hey, chill!"

She swung a fist at him, which he caught easily. "No! This is my house and I want you out!"

"April…" There was anger reflected back at her in his eyes. A strange kind of anger that she had never seen in him. "What tha fuck's wrong with you?"

"If you actually cared to pay attention, you'd know the answer to that." April's gaze darkened.

"And how'm'I supposed ta read yer damn mind?! This is getting fuckin' ridiculous!"

"You're hopeless!" She jerked her hand back, prepared to strike him again. "I wish you never came through my door!"

"Stop trying ta hit me!" He grabbed both of her fists and held them away from him.

"Then get out!" She hissed through her teeth.

At that moment, the fire escape window opened. Casey's grip loosened, allowing April to jerk out of his hold once again. She turned to watch Donatello step inside and forced a smile at his hesitant frown.

"Am I interrupting anything?" He asked, closing out the chilly breeze that followed him in.

"No, you're not. Casey was just leaving." She shot her ex a deadly look before lying back on the couch, her short red hair fanning out behind her. Casey grumbled something she didn't care to listen to as he grabbed his discarded golf club and left, slamming the front door behind him. "Real mature there." She muttered, closing her eyes against the burn of frustrated tears.

"What'd Casey do this time?" Donatello walked over, giving the door a lingering look.

April lazily pointed at the ceramic shards still cluttering her floor. "Watch your step over there. He made another mess and I'm too spent to clean it up right now." She blinked an eye open to look at him. "There's coffee. I no longer want it right now. Take the whole pot."

She caught the excited sparkle in his eyes before he spoke. "Are you sure?" He frowned. "It might make you feel better."

"…I guess you could be right. Make me a cup." She shooed him away with a lazy wave of her hand. He rolled his eyes and turned back, giving her a chance to quickly use her arm to erase the evidence of her tears. "I don't know why I even put up with that man's clumsiness. I mean, technically, you and your brothers are no better sometimes, but still. It's like he doesn't care."

"I'm sure he does in his own way." He looked up from pouring with a light narrowing of his eyes. "And I'm not that bad. When's the last time I made a mess?"

April put up a mock contemplating look, "Christmas Eve, I believe. Or did you conveniently forget who broke my tree topper? Don't even try blaming your brothers because they chose to stay home that night."

"Oh yeah… Well uh… That doesn't count. Mikey had knocked it askew a few days before and that's why it fell. So not entirely my fault." He came back over carrying two coffee mugs and set them on the table in front of her. "Besides, it was already heading to the great garbage dump in the sky with all those chips in the ceramic."

"That was my grandmother's angel, you brute!" She kicked him, playfully.

"So it was old." He turned to her with a crooked smile. "I thought you hated that thing."

"That doesn't matter. It was a family heirloom." She huffed.

"I said I was sorry." Donatello wedged his bo staff next to his seat before sitting down beside her. "I even found you a better topper."

"Yes, you did. Which is why I can forgive you." She sat up and pulled the laptop back over her legs. "Now to business. I found blueprints in my set of documents. Everything from the office towers to the underground tunnel system. I didn't get to look at everything, but it's obvious Splinter won't be in those offices. There's nothing to hold him there."

"Well that narrows it down a little at least." He frowned as she flipped through the blueprints. "According to that Kimberly girl, the ground floor is clear, too. She works that area and hasn't seen any indication that he could be there." He pulled out his tablet. "I have Splinter's file. Bishop wasn't lying about the snake venom. It appears Cartwright was attempting to cure it. There's a list of substances she tried – all marked as failures. Still, I can't believe finding a feasible anti-venom could be this difficult."

"He's still alive though, right?" April asked.

"I couldn't find anything that said either way. I'm taking that as a good sign." He flipped through more files. "As for security, I'm almost worried. This Donavon guy really knows his stuff. The place is built like a fortress. He's either paranoid or he's got something to hide."

April acknowledged her companion's words as her mind drifted. She frowned at her lap before speaking, "How's Mikey doing?" She looked at him, giving the turtle pause.

"He's alright. Still beating himself up for not realizing Kimberly's connection to Splinter sooner. But he's Mikey." He shrugged. "Now all he wants to do is meet her in person. Apparently, he's jealous."

"Is he getting around okay? I mean, he's all alone at the lair right now."

"He's fine. He stole my spare chair and is using it as a wheelchair." He chagrined. "He should be alright for a while. Honestly, I'm just glad to be free of him right now. He's always so demanding when he's like this. I almost rather be in Raph's place."

April chuckled, knowingly. "I can only imagine. I'm glad I never had to worry about that. Robyn may be younger, but I don't remember her ever demanding as much attention as your brother."

"Yeah, he's a handful and a half." Donatello frowned at his tablet. "This would be easier if Kimberly had gotten back to me about what that little kid wanted." He pulled out his shell cell and flipped through the call log. "I figured she'd at least get back to me by now. At first I thought she just couldn't chance a call, but it's late. She'd be home by now."

"Do you think something might have happened to her?"

"I don't know." Donatello pulled up her number and typed a quick message. "I hope not. She was supposed to help us on the inside. I got the keycard she gave me, but it would be a lot easier with her as a distraction."

"Could she have chickened out?"

"With the way she was talking earlier today? I don't think so. She seemed almost excited. Seriously, I think she got over my appearance quicker than you did. And without all the fainting." He snickered at April's affronted look. "It could be because she saw Splinter first. She actually said he was scarier than me…"

"It's true," April shrugged with a smile. "Rats are easily scarier than turtles before even taking anything else into account. And Don? You are definitely not scary."

Donatello scoffed. "I could be scary if I want. Not to mention, Raph and Leo'd probably scare her half to death."

"No doubt." April snorted. "I can't believe it! Are you actually upset she wasn't more scared of you?"

"She basically shrugged me of!" Donatello's arms grew animated in emphasis. "And then she just starts rambling, all curious about me and Mikey. It's not normal!"

She couldn't contain it anymore. She burst into full laughter, before patting his shoulder. "It's okay, Donny. I'm sure she was just internalizing her fear."

"You're patronizing me."

"Yep." April chuckled as she relaxed against the couch once again. "Thank you, by the way. I needed a laugh."

"Yeah, sure," Donatello gave her a look, but the smile on his face betrayed him. "Anyway, let's get back to work. The sooner we get this done the sooner I can call Leo in."

"And the sooner we can get Splinter back home."

"Exactly."


It was a few hours before daylight by the time Donatello stepped out into the bitter chill air. He turned to head off to the lair, hoping Mikey was staying out of his things in his newfound boredom, when he heard banging coming from below. If a familiar voice didn't chime in immediately after, he would have assumed it was an enemy. As it was, his hand still twitched, itching to grab for his bo staff. He let out a quiet sigh before scaling the fire escape's railing. In one leap, he launched into a controlled freefall, landing in a roll on the concrete below. Barely a whisper of sound betrayed him thanks to his years of training. Casey was oblivious to his arrival directly behind him.

"…Dammit!" Casey's rough baritone echoed through the alley, the tone of it so vengeful, any sane person would stay clear. It didn't even give Donatello pause. He lived with worse. Casey was small fry compared to Raphael in a rage. There was nothing Casey could do that would trump his brother.

Casey Jones prepared another hockey puck to send flying into the semi-dark before them with the aide of his hockey stick. As the puck flew up into the air, Donatello slid his bo staff out of its holster and bounced the puck into his hands in one fluid movement. The man didn't even notice, his hockey stick still arcing to strike where the puck used to be. That was until Donatello came back with his staff to block the swing.

"That's enough, Casey." The turtle's voice was firm, but soft. He caught the man's gaze and kept it until the fight in his eyes left.

"Fuck. Donny?" Casey stuck his hockey stick back in his bag. "How long have you been there?"

"Not too long. I just finished up with April." He sheathed his bo staff with a frown. "What's been going on with you two, anyway?"

"Don't ask me." He turned away with a grimace. "She's been like this since New Year's 'n' it's only gettin' worse. She's crazy! I don't know what's got her all pissed at me. Ain't like that vase was worth nuthin'. I got it cheap at some old rummage sale."

Donatello mirrored his look as he pulled at the broad leather strap across his chest. "That can't be easy. I wish I knew what to tell you. She didn't say anything to me about that."

"Pro'ly ain't gonna get betta' anytime soon either. I ain't made fer this shit. She's drivin' me fuckin' crazy!" He kicked at a discarded can, sending it rattling away from them. "I've been tryin', but she don't seem ta get it. It's hopeless!"

Donatello pulled out his shell cell for the second time that night and frowned at it. "I'm no expert in this by far. Woman are not my forte."

"Mikey says different. Something about a lock of hair from an alien woman he found in yer stuff." He elbowed the turtle in the side with a snicker.

Donatello turned away in an instant as he bit his lip. "She was thanking me, that's all. I don't even know why she felt she had to do that." His words came out in a rush. "Mikey's so dead when I get home." He closed his eyes and breathed in deep. "Anyway, that was years ago and she's never contacted again. Probably busy ruling that planet of hers."

"Maybe," Casey sighed, "And sorry fer unloading on ya."

"No, it's fine. It's why I'm still here. Other than just curiosity sake, anyway." He moved the phone so Casey could clearly see it. "I was thinking… I need to call Leo. You're up to date on what's happening?"

"Yeah, you guys get tha worse luck sometimes."

"Comes with the territory." Donatello shrugged off his comment. "So, the plan is set. If Leo's got Raph out of danger, we're all heading in to rescue Master Splinter before it's too late. You can tag along in that mission. That should help keep your mind off all this."

"Hell, yeah!" Casey grinned as he mimed a few punches. "I'm always up fer a good brawl."

"I thought so." Donatello gave him a shadow of a smile in return before pressing the speed dial for his brother.

The call was answered after only one ring. "Talk to me."

"It's Don. We have a lock on Splinter's whereabouts."

"Are you sure this time?" There was a hint of hope lighting his brother's words.

"Positive. We have someone on the inside confirming sight of him only a few days ago. It's not good, Leo. We don't have much time. They're going to kill him."

There was a pause on the other end. "Do you know when?"

"Regrettably, no. Our mole – some young woman named Kimberly – was looking in on that for me. Problem is, she hasn't gotten back to me yet. Either something happened to her or she quit helping us."

"I'll save the questions I have concerning her for later."

Donatello chagrined, "Yeah, that might be a good idea. It's a better question for Mikey anyway."

"How is Mikey for that matter?"

"He's already ignoring my order for him to stay in bed." He shrugged. "So he's acting normal."

"He won't be coming on the rescue mission." Leonardo left no doubt that his question was more of a statement than anything.

"Definitely not. His leg needs to heal before he can safely walk on it again." He looked to the lightening skies above. "How's it going on your end? Did you take care of those burns on your arm? Don't think I didn't see them before you left."

"Leatherhead wouldn't let me forget about them, so yes, I did." His voice took on a bit of an edge. "It's not even that bad. Mikey took the brunt of it."

Donatello rolled his eyes at his brother's typical response. "And Raph?"

"Bishop moved his base after you left. I've been tracking him with LH's help."

"You haven't even broke back in yet?" Donatello's eyes widened. "I thought you'd have Raph out of there by now." He caught Casey shift closer at that, his expression one of worry.

"I should be close now. I took one of their subs to stay anonymous. Leatherhead has the mini-sub. I don't think they've caught on that LH is only a distraction just yet. If all goes well, I'll have Raph safe by the end of the day. Hopefully, he'll be okay. I would prefer more help with Sensei. But knowing Bishop…"

"Yeah…" He sighed in shared dread. "But we also know Raph. He's a fighter."

"That's what worries me. Anything could happen. Bishop won't make it easy for him." Leonardo sighed. "Worst case scenario, go in without us. I hate the idea of you going in solo, but waiting isn't an option right now. Not with Splinter's life on the line. I would say go in now if you're ready, but I know you. It's late – or early, if you prefer – and I bet you haven't slept yet."

"…I was thinking I'd just get another cup of coffee when I get home." He chagrined as he once again pulled on the leather strap across his chest.

"I thought so. Forget the coffee, Donny. Get some rest."

"So, don't be like you then."

"…That was different."

"Sure. I'll get some sleep, okay? As long as you don't make me come after you next." Donatello spoke firmly.

"Don't worry about me. That's my job."

Donatello could hear the smile in his brother's voice. "You don't have a monopoly over worrying just because you're leader." At his brother's chuckle, he huffed his displeasure. "Anyway, I'm taking Casey with me. So even if you don't make it in time, I won't be alone."

"Alright. I guess that's –" Leonardo suddenly cursed. "I have to go. They found me. Just keep to the plan." With that, the connection was broken, just clipping off the tail end of a distant explosion. Donatello stared at his shell cell as worry tightened his gut.

"What happened?" Casey asked beside him.

"I don't know. He just said they found him…"

"Ya mean he's in trouble?"

"Yeah." Donatello replaced the cell back in its holster. "But typical Leo, he only told me to keep to the plan. He'll probably make it out on his own..." He mentally shook himself. "He has to for now. He's right about one thing: Splinter comes first. I just…wish I knew what Leo's facing right now."

"Come on, Donny." Casey laid his hand on his shoulder. "He's got this. Just tell me tha plan. We'll get Splinter free, then we'll worry about Leo."

"Alright…" Donatello sighed. He knew what he should do, but that nagging worry still wouldn't leave. Something big had happened on Leo's end. An explosive noise like the one he heard couldn't mean anything else. What kind of brother was he to ignore that? I can't worry about this right now, He told himself. Please be okay, Leo. You have to be.


A/N: I hope you enjoyed this longer chapter! Remember to feed that review box before you leave!