Chapter 22

Raphael was still in bandages, but after a few days of bed rest he was given some crutches to help him stand and walk. Treximus had been providing care to him and shared some stories about their situation since the Turtles had last left the planet. The other prisoners that were rescued were also receiving care from volunteers and medical professionals helping the 'Rebellion'. Through it all, Raphael was glad that he was finally with a friend. Life was not easy late;y, and his wounds still hurt.

He grabbed the crutches and decided to take a look around the base. The 'Rebellion' base was full of creatures of many races, not only Triceraton. It was actually a bit surprising for Raphael to see other creatures help the Triceratons rebuild their republic economy.

The 'Rebellion' was a small army consisting of weapons as well as food and medical supplies. Despite being such a small army, they were an organized group and everyone knew their assigned jobs. Raphael saw some soldiers polishing their weapons and discussing the outcomes of the recent attack on the prison. Treximus was commander of the army, so he was present at the meeting and talking about their next project. Raphael knew that Treximus was probably not having an easy time with the Republic government, especially with being in charge of such a base.

He decided to observe the meeting Treximus was having in hopes that he could have an idea about what was going on. He didn't like sitting around and not doing anything, it made him feel useless. Even if this wasn't his fight, he still wanted to have some knowledge about the situation.

"Still say we should go out and look for that coward Zanromon!" a Triceraton soldier growled. Treximus turned to him with a frown.

"And where should we look, Plaq? Zanromon is in hiding. Besides, he's no longer in power and therefor is not our concern."

"Where else do you think he's hiding? Obviously Lady Nhura is harboring him!"

"Do you have proof of this?" Treximus charged.

"I don't need proof! He's family with her, don't you think it's obvious?" Plaq slammed his fist on the table. Treximus's frown did not disappear, but his voice was firm.

"Plaq, you know how we Triceratons value our honor. Lady Nhura knows that if she did protect someone who does not uphold the Triceraton code, then she would be hunted down and executed in such a manner as Zanromon. She would be marked as a traitor. I'm not at all defending her, but I honestly don't believe she would risk her safety for such a situation."

Plaq growled again, but made no other remark. Raphael had questions, but knew better than to interrupt the meeting.

Treximus changed the subject. "Anyway, we must continue our mission. There are still many creatures out there who need our help. I will try again to arrange a meeting with the government. Perhaps there is a way for us to compromise."

"But, Treximus," another Triceraton spoke up. "We have tried many times already to speak with the officals of the Republic. I doubt they'll listen to us."

"That may be true, but that doesn't mean I won't stop trying," Treximus told him. "I refuse to go to war with ourselves. In the end, we're all brothers and sisters of the Homeworld, no matter where we stand."

The meeting was closed a moment later and Raphael decided to ask his questions. Treximus noticed Raphael had been listening to the meeting and smiled.

"You have questions, my friend?"

"I do," Raphael nodded. "Who is this Lady Nhura person, and what does she have to do with Zanromon?"

Treximus was putting away documents and other equipment that was used during the meeting. "Lady Nhura is a public official who chooses who will be our next Prime Leader. She's also a candidate for the position. She's powerful in that sense, and has been very influential lately. She's liked by the public."

"Okay, but what does she have to do with Zanromon?"

"Zanromon and Lady Nhura are brother and sister."

Raphael froze at the words. "So she's a threat?"

"I'm not sure," Treximus admitted. "She seems to value the Triceraton honor to heart, but there is no way to know if she is true to her words, or just saying she values our ways just to gain popularity."

"Could she give you a pardon, then? If you talk to her, like you mentioned in the meeting about the public officials, could she change and help you restore your Triceraton honor?"

"She could," Treximus nodded. "But it is difficult to try and speak with her. She has many business meetings due to her campaign. Besides, it's a lot harder than just asking someone who knows her directly if she can speak with someone. There's a lot more involved for such a process to be accepted."

Raphael had a feeling he would receive such an answer. The situation with the Rebellion seemed hopeless.

"So what happens if no one agrees with you, or if you can't meet with anyone? Will you go to war?"

"I pray that doesn't become the case," Treximus sighed sadly. "There are still many public officials in the government who served Zanromon, so they don't take kindly to our group."

Raphael felt useless again. Treximus finished putting everything up and noticed the Turtle's frustrated look.

"What's wrong?"

"I...I just feel useless!" Raphael growled as he clinched his fists. "I can't do anything! Not for you...not for my brothers!"

Treximus stood next to him and placed a hand on his shoulder.

"My focus for you is to get well again. Then we can discuss how you can help us find your brothers."

"Is there any news?" Raphael asked. Treximus nodded.

"I did receive word from one of my friends at the prison that your brother Leonardo is still under the influence of Commander Erkon. Donatello was...," Treximus hesitated.

"What? What abut Don?"

"Donatello was sold."

Raphael stared at Treximus in disbelief. "But...to whom? Where is he?"

"I don't know," Treximus told him. "My friend would not tell me. I suppose he was afraid someone would find out and try to silence him."

Raphael hung his head. "No...it can't be. Does this mean...I'll never see him again?"

"Never say never, Raphael," Treximus told him. "I promised you I would help you find your brothers, and I intend to keep that promise."

"What about Mikey? Please tell me you know where he is?" Raphael was desperate, and hoped that at least one of his brothers was somewhere safe.

"From what I understand, he's still owned by a therapist. He seems to be doing okay, too."

Raphael was relieved to know that Mikey was still okay. He hated knowing that his little brother was still a prisoner to one of those hateful Triceratons, but at least he was doing okay.

"Have patience, Raphael," Treximus told him. "Nothing good comes from acting rashly. When the time is right, you will all be together again."

Raphael nodded, but he still feared for his brothers.