Leo walked over to Master Splinter. "Master Splinter, this is AJ." Leo gestured towards me as I continued to work. "She saved our butts from the Foot tonight. And she's in the process of saving them again by saving Donnie's life. Karai cut open a major artery or something like that. Please. Sensei, don't be angry."
Master Splinter nodded. "Miss, I would like to speak with you when you're done. Alone."
I finished up stitching Donnie's leg and told him to rest. Leo walked me over to the dojo. "I hope you get on Master Splinter's good side." He half smiled.
I nodded and stepped in the doorway. Master Splinter was meditating. "Come in." He said. I walked over. "Sit. Please." I sat in front of him as he finished his meditation. "AJ. What is your real name?"
"Amarante Jade Yamazaki."
"And who are your parents?" He asked.
I took a deep breath. "Daijiro and Michelle Yamazaki. Both deceased."
Master Splinter looked at me with wide eyes. "Daijiro Yamazaki? Was he a master of ninjutso?"
"Yes. He taught me and my sister until his death."
Master Splinter sighed. "He's dead? He was a good friend of mine growing up back in Japan. Our masters were brothers and often taught together. He told me about meeting your mother not to long after I got married to my deceased wife. I was human then. What's your story?"
I told him everything. I was bawling at the end of it. I missed my father, my mother, and my sister hated me. My world was turned upside down. Master Splinter patted my back. "You are always welcome to stay here, knowing your current housing problem. I'll have the boys set you up a room. Never let go of your hope, never let go of your honor." He left the room.
A few minutes later Leo came in. "AJ? Are you okay?"
I shook my head. He came over and sat next to me. I fell into his arms and buried my face in his chest. Something told me that what I did earlier was the best decision I've ever made.