Author's Note: Sorry for the wait. Been busy trying to get ready for school. Now I tried with this chapter and i'm pretty happy with most of it. But I couldn't really do that much with the last part. I tried and I hope you all like it. Enjoy.

Chapter 16: New and Old Routines

"Again!" Oroku's voice called out as he watched Don before him.

The olive green turtle had a bead of sweat going down his head as his breathing was shallow. Still he nodded and repeated the kata that Shredder had told him to do. First throwing a right straight punch, followed by a left elbow, then a spin kick, which turned into a swift leg and ended with an uppercut.

Seven days, it had been a whole week since Shredder started training Donatello. And in the short time that his training began Don had excelled in most of Oroku's instructions. Mainly because of the muscle memory and his years of training he already had under his belt. Thing started off slow but then gradually grown faster as he mastered the material that were given to him.

Donny knew that accepting training from his enemy wasn't good at all but he found some good graces from it. Not at all did Shredder berate or discipline him for messing up his moves. Instead he carefully and slowly helped the turtle get his technique right. Then there was the encouragement he received from Shredder, in forms of compliments and words of encouragement, which made him feel better.

"Once more!" Oroku called out as he watched his student.

Donny nodded as he performed the small kata once again, but this time faster and fluid. Just as it started he finished it fast. Once done he remained in his fighting stance, breathing a bit more heavily. Most likely they had been at this for hours already.

"Relax," Oroku's voice order.

Donny returned to a normal stance as he faced his trainer and sat down on his legs, both eyes looking up at Shredder.

"You did well Junko, you mastered that kata in no time," Oroku praised the turtle with a smile. "I'm impressed."

"T-Thank you," he bowed his head, smiling at the praise he received. That was one thing he'd liked most about his training. Whenever he did something good he would be praised for his efforts, something that brought a smile to his face. And he'd hate to say it, but he saw a small increase in his skill.

"Now there is one more exercise I would like you two do before you are done for today."

"What is it?"

Shredder then walked over to the sliding door, one that would lead to the second dojo next door. "The next room is dark, save for a one candle. You are to extinguish the flame, but there is a catch. You cannot step into the light, not even a single part of you can, if you do the exercise is over. Do you understand?"

Don bowed his head, "Yes."

"Then get to it," he moved to the side, watching as his pupil got to his feet and headed to the door.

Reaching up Donny slid the door open and entered the dark room, the only source of light was a lone candle in the center of the room. The flame produced a small circle of light, about over five feet long all around. It was too far for him to blow it out, so he had to try something else.

"Remember, no part of you can't be in the light," Oroku said. "I'm watching."

Nodding Donny walked closer but stopped a couple of feet from the light. Kneeling down he studied the situation before him. Once again it was too far to blow it out, and he couldn't get closer or else he'll be in the light. He had to put it out from a distance, but how and with what?

"Hmm…there has to be a meaning for this exercise…but what?" Don thought to himself, racking his brain over the situation. "Maybe this is a test."

Behind the turtle Oroku watched his pupil kneeling down and thinking. There was a meaning behind this exercise but he wanted to make sure that the turtle figured this out. He would be watching to see if he succeeded or failed the test. "He's smart, he'll figure it out."

Just then something clicked into Donny's mind, "All I was told was to put out the flame…I wasn't told that I couldn't use anything." Looking around the room Don tried to locate anything that would help. The room was dark so it was hard to see anything, even with all his training. "Wait," he thought as he reached down to his pouch and opened it. Feeling around he then pulled out his ID card, smiling he stood up.

"Now, if I can just throw this at the right height and speed…I can put out the flame easily."

Oroku raised an eye as he watched the olive green turtle stand then held out something. "What is he up to?"

Donny carefully aimed the card at the flame, then pulled back horizontally then slowly moved forward, trying to get a good aim. Once he felt positive of his aim he pulled back and swiftly swung his arm, letting the card go and it quickly flew across the room. And just like that it hit the flame and the whole room was completely dark.

There was a clap and the lights turned on as Don turned to see Shredder walking towards him. Seeing a neutral face on his instructor he then sat down on his knees, waiting for him to speak.

"Junko…explain your actions," Oroku said, looking down at the turtle.

Donny felt a bit nervous as he heard this, but was a bit better as it wasn't anger or disappointment. Clearly he wanted to know how he came about doing the exercise. "Well…you to me that I had to extinguish the flame…but you never said how I had to do it. So I figured that I had to use whatever was on me or around the area. That being said, I used my ID card and shot it at the candle, putting the flame out."

Oroku was silent after hearing the explanation, no expression on his face. This was making the turtle nervous more, but Shredder wanted this. In truth he was glad with the explanation, since this was what he wanted him to do. He got it down fast and was proud of it. "You did very well."

Don smiled as he bowed his head, "Thank you."

"You are learning well, whenever you are in a bind try using the objects around you. Even the smallest thing can help you out."

"I understand."

"Good, you are done for today, you can rest," Oroku said as he watched the turtle rise to his feet. "And remember to read the books that Dr. Adams gave you."

Donny grimaced at the statement that was something he didn't want to be reminded of. Over the past few days he had frequent appointments with the good doctor. Who seemed to have been bent on increasing his medical knowledge. He had been given text books to read, all of them medical wise, being told to read certain pages. For some reason Don did it, mostly because the contents of the books drew his interests.

"Yes, I'll be sure to do that," Donny bowed to Shredder before walking and leaving the dojo, but made sure to grab his ID card first. Since his lessons began the olive green turtle thought it would be good to show some respect to the one teaching him. So before and after lessons he would bow to him. So now he left the dojo and headed for the elevator, his room the destination.

The hum of the elevator echoed throughout the lair as hard thud sounded and the heavy doors opened. Coming out were the three remaining brothers, Splinter, April and Casey. They were back in New York, their small vacation over with and now it was back to business. Earlier that day Splinter announced that they had rested enough and it was time to return back home. The others couldn't agree more as they were eager to get back. Dusk had already hit as they parked the battle shell in the garage and took the elevator down into the lair.

Everyone then walked inside as Master Splinter reached to flip the main switch. An electrical hum sounded as the lights flickered. Everyone stood in place as they saw this, the lights continuing this for a few seconds before turning back off.

"Crud, not the lights," Raph was the first to speak.

"They were bound to give sooner or later," Leo said next, shaking his head even though no one could see. "Just like the rest of the stuff that's falling apart."

"I'm not having that," the red clad turtle responded as he moved to the large switch, flipping it multiple times, but it did nothing.

"It's busted dude," Mikey tried convince his brother.

"AAHH!" Raph shouted as he then punched the panel. Just like magic the lights flashed on, this time they stayed on, much to everyone's amazement. "See, they still work."

"Huh, guess violence is the answer sometimes," Casey said as they all walked in further.

"Still, best not try that again just in case," Splinter announced as he faced their sons. "Unpack your belongings and you may resume the search."

"Yes, Sensei," they all said as they hurried to their rooms.

"So-" April began, but stopped when the old rat held out a hand.

Both of his ears flickered as he listened to his sons footsteps and soon the sounds of their doors closing hit him. Once that happened he let out a depressing sigh, reaching a hand up to rub his face.

"Are you ok?" April asked.

"I am fine Miss O'Neal," Splinter responded as he placed both hands on his walking stick. "I am just worried about my sons."

"They're fine, aren't they?" Casey asked, a confused look on his face.

"On the outside they may be, but on the inside they are still devastated. I thought perhaps this break would relieve some of that, but I fear it only worsened it." Splinter then walked over to the couch and took a seat down, letting out a sigh as he relax.

The two humans followed, April sitting down next to Splinter while Casey leaned on the back rest. "How so?" Casey asked.

"Over the past year they have been running themselves ragged, trying to find their brother. Worries, fear, concerns, and denial fill them," he responded, leaning back into the cushions.

"And all that has been building up?" April asked, thinking she knows where he was getting at.

A nod was the response, "Yes, and it was slowly destroying them on the inside. They wouldn't have had anything else left in them if they continued the way they went. That why as much as it pained me that I suggested the rest. Not only did they need to recover physically, but spiritually as well."

"We all saw them during our time out," Casey spoke up. "They all seemed restless."

"I've seen that as well…the break healed them physically but I'm concerned more than ever for their spirits now."

"They will be fine, they always are," April placed a comforting hand on the old rat's shoulder.

Splinter was about to respond but stopped once his ears twitched as the sound of doors opening hit him. The three looked as the three turtles came back, moving towards them. Splinter then got up from his seat and approached them.

"Master, we're heading out now," Leo said, getting a nod from Raph and Mikey.

"Be safe my sons," the old rat bowed to them, which they returned. "Stay together, and do not get overwhelmed. And if anyone of you starts to get tired, return immediately."

"Yes Master Splinter," they all said. Receiving a nod the three were allowed to go. Turning they all rushed for the main door, heading out, their search once again starting. Splinter watched them as they left, his worried thoughts for them returning in full force.

The two humans watched the rat's back as he let out a huge sigh, remaining in place even after his sons left. Just the sight of their friend brought upon concern for them.

"Uh…Master Splinter…are you-" Casey spoke but was cut off.

"I am tired," his voice suddenly said, making them jump a bit. Taking a breath he then started to walk towards his room. "You may stay as long as you like, I need to rest."

They were confused at this but understood. "Alright, hope you feel better," April said.

"Thank you," he said, stopping in front of his door. Sliding it open he stepped in and closed it behind him. Once he was finally alone he let out a huge sigh as he slumped his shoulders a bit. He wasn't really tired, the truth was he just needed an excuse to be alone right now.

The truth of the matter is that the old rat was scared of this time now. He slowly feared the day they would return to the city, mainly because he was afraid of what they could find if their search resumed. Over the past few days he felt things, negative emotions and he knew they were from Donatello.

Ever he adopted the turtles as his sons he formed a connection with them. One that allowed him to sense any distress with them from anywhere. It didn't matter the distance, if something was wrong with his children in a certain way, he would feel it. Right now he wasn't liking what he felt. It was like some kind of changes were happening, ones he had no idea what they were, which only frighten him more.

Walking further in the room he came to a small mantle where a picture of his former owner, Yoshi rested. This item was something Splinter received as a gift from the Utroms. He couldn't believe it when it was handed to him, shedding a tear as he held it. He kept the picture up where it could be seen from anywhere in the room. Every day he would show respect for if it wasn't for him the rat wouldn't have been what he is today.

Reaching for the far end of the mantel Splinter grabbed a match and struck it. He then lit two candles on either side of the photo, putting the match out once he finished. Splinter then sat down on his legs and pressed his hands together, eyes shut and head bowing.

"My master Yoshi…please wherever you are, please watch over my sons. They have been through a lot this past year, and I do not wish to lose them like I lost Donatello. Watch over them and keep them safe. And please, in your power lead Donatello back home, we all miss him…I miss him. All I want is our family to be whole once again." A single tear fell down the rat's eyes as he prayed to his deceased owner. Hoping by some miracle his prayer is heard.

Don slid the door open to his room and walked in, being sure to close it. Letting out a small yawn the olive green turtle stretched as he looked over at the time. It was almost ten, and he felt tired, but not tired enough to fall asleep.

Walking forward he headed for the bookshelf that he had. Since he's not tired might as well get the required reading down so he didn't have to worry about it later. Looking through the titles he picked out a book that lists descriptions of certain medicines and the effects they have once taken and the deadly effects. Opening it both eyes skimmed through the text as he sat down at the table in his room.

The book listed many different meds, some he had and some he didn't hear before. They also listed what they should be used for and in which circumstances they should be given. Also it warned about what products shouldn't be mixed with them.

He seemed to be engrossed in the writing before him, because he jumped when a knock sounded. Looking up he saw Gavin walking in. "Bad time?" he asked, seeing the turtle reading.

"No, it's alright," he motioned for his friend to come in, which he did.

The brunette joined his friend at the table, "So how was your day?"

"Tiring," Don leaned back in the chair. "Mr. Saki has me doing some side work."

"Like what?"

"I…can't really say, sorry," Don shook his head, feeling a bit bad for not telling his friend. But he found that it might be best not reveal his ninja training at all.

"Ok…I understand that," he nodded, hurt a bit for not being told. He then looked at the chess set on the table, "fancy a game?"

Looking up from the book Donny looked at the chess set and smiled, "Sure," he closed the book and set it to the side.

Gavin smiled as he positioned the game in between them. Since he was the white pieces he moved first, then Don.

"So…Gavin," the olive green turtle spoke.

"What is it?" he moved a pawn.

"I…don't really know you that much, and we're friends and all."

"Well the feelings mutual," Gavin responded. "Not in a bad way, I don't know much about you either. All I know is that Mr. Saki brought you here to work in the labs. Although I'm curious as to how you came to be."

"Well…that's a long story," Don said, looking at the board as he moved his knight.

"So is mine," Gavin responded as he moved another pawn. Now there was silence, expect for the taps of the moving chess pieces. "Do you have any family?"

The question made Donny stop, body freezing at the mention of his family. Just like that flashes of his captors, but instead of Foot ninjas he saw his brothers. He winced as the memories kept popping. "It wasn't them, it wasn't them…" He kept telling himself.

"Are you alright?" Gavin asked, seeing the pained expression on his face.

Both of the turtle's eyes opened as he heard his friend's voice. "Yes…don't worry. And yes I have a family."

"Are they…uh…you know," Gavin tried to say, but couldn't. "Gone?"

"What…no they're alive," Don managed to respond.

The human was relieved, "Oh sorry, it's just the expression you had on your face told me something might have happened to them."

"No, nothing at all. I have three brothers and a father…that's all I want to say about them," Don's hand rested on the table as he looked down.

"Oh…ok…do…you miss them?"

"I…I…" Don tried to answer but the flashbacks to his past tortures came back, making him flinch. "I'm not sure."

"How can you not be sure?" Gavin was confused at the response. Chances are if he was close to them he would miss them a lot, but how is he not sure?

"It's complicated, just please don't ask," Don asked as he took a pawn. Wanting the subject off of him he changed things around. "What about you, do you have a family."

The brunette was silent for a shake as he shook his head, "No…if it wasn't for this job I would consider myself a drifter."

"No parents…or relatives of any kind?"

"No," Gavin shook his head, moving his bishop. "Parents died when I was younger…they both only children, no grandparents…and I never married."

"Sorry to do that…so before this what did you used to do?"

"I used to be a technician at a local hospital for whenever the equipment was busted. I left the job and soon found this one," he said, taking a rook. "Been here for nearly a year."

"Why did you leave?" Don asked out of curiosity.

"Personal reasons," he responded, looking at the chess board as he said it.

"Oh…ok then," Don didn't ask questions, wanting to respect his friend's privacy. He didn't want to pry if he didn't want to share.

"But man was it hard to find a new hospital to go to," he said but froze as he realized what he said.

"What?" Both eyes rose.

"Nothing forget about it," the human tried to drop the subject.

"No really, what's wrong?"

"Just something that's best forgotten…bad memories."

This couldn't help but spark the olive green turtle's curiosity. Why would he find a new hospital after quitting the one he worked at? Did he leave on bad terms with some of the main staff? Even though he wanted to ask he respected his friend's wishes to not talk about it.

"So…what are you exactly?" Gavin asked, taking another pawn.

"I'm exactly what you see," Don smiled as he studied the board. "I'm a walking, talking turtle."

"Where did you come from?" Gavin asked more, wanting to get the full truth.

"Not ready to share that," The turtle shook his head. In honestly he didn't want to share most of his secrets yet. He wanted to at least get to know his friend more before releasing information like that.

"Same here," the brunette responded in a soft tone. "I guess we're feeling the same way."

"Yeah…why don't we try to get to know each other more…that's what friends do."

"I agree," he smiled, moving another piece. "Check."

Don grinned as he moved the king out of the way. Their game continued on for a long while. Both being matched in skill, and were able to play a good game, all the while talking and sharing information about one another. There were some laughs and smiles going on as they got to know about each other more. All in all this was strengthening their friendship.

A/N: Hope you like. Once again the last part might not be as good. I wanted to show a bit of Gavin's life to you and I hope the little information helped. Now things will get better in the next chapter. I want to say why but I want to keep a lid on it. If you have any questions please PM me. I will answer the best I can. Till next time.