- Chapter 95 -
The Arena of Carnage
After retreating from Xaava-Dal, Mozar found himself reporting back to the Triceraton flagship and found himself facing none other than the Triceraton Prime Leader, Zanramon.
Zanramon was a cruel-looking Triceraton, wearing a golden crown and brown-and-black robes. Mozar could tell just from the Prime Leader's body language that he was not pleased.
"So, you failed to acquire not just one, but two fragments of the Heart of Darkness," Zanramon remarked, calm but cold. "I put you in charge of this mission because you are the only member of our race to ever survive an encounter with that monster. I thought your experience would fuel your resolve, but it's clear it has made you weak… and there is no room for weakness in my empire."
"Sire, I was met with interference," Mozar defended. "A group of Gamarons, and Krang's Project Oracle."
Zanramon snorted.
"Such a paltry group should not have been able to stop you. And if this Project Oracle is truly a victim of Krang, it should be aiding us."
Mozar clenched his fist at that. "Project Oracle is a human female, and she has a valid reason to protect the Earth. We are threatening her home, Prime Leader."
"Her home has been infested and irreversibly contaminated by that vile Utrom," Zanramon shot back. "Still, this could be used to our advantage. I assume she possesses the same tracking software you once had."
"She did... but not long after they departed Xaava-Dal, the signal cut out. They must have realized what the brand did and removed it."
With a growl, Zanramon slammed his fist on the arm of his throne.
"Then summon the Hunters' Guild. Put a bounty on her head. She will either join our crusade, or we will force her to reveal where she and her Gamaron friends have hidden the fragments. Regardless, I want her alive."
Mozar looked conflicted but knew he couldn't go against his Prime Leader. So, he saluted and clenched his teeth.
"Yes sir. It shall be done."
Meanwhile, in the Ulixes, Donnie checked the fuel gauge and turned to Honeycutt.
"Professor, our fuel readings are starting to run low. We may need to make a pit stop soon."
"Yes, of course," Honeycutt replied. "We're coming up on Zayford's Cantina. A perfect place to restock."
"Sweet!" Mikey exclaimed. "I've always wanted to go to a cantina!"
"Make one Star Wars joke, and I'm tossing you out the airlock," Raph warned.
-X-
The ship docked near Zayford's Cantina. Everyone got off, pulling their cloaks over their heads. Hisako stretched and groaned, Midnight doing the same at her feet.
"I'm gonna take Midnight for a walk," she told them. "Let her do her business and all that."
"Just be careful," Leo cautioned. "Watch your back."
Hisako gave him a thumbs-up. "Same to you. And if you see any furry men with pet humanoid scoundrels, don't get involved."
"Don't I wish that would happen," Mikey remarked.
Hisako rolled her eyes as she walked off with her dog.
"What did she mean by that?" Honeycutt questioned.
"Dude, we are so having a Star Wars marathon," Mikey decided.
-X-
Hisako and Midnight's walk had led them around the back of the cantina. As the pup squatted to do her business, Hisako looked around, whistling a tune before something on the wall caught her eye.
"What the…" She approached it carefully, taking a look. "Hunter's Guild bounty board… Better make sure there's nothing on the Professor. He was complaining about that General Blanque guy."
She looked over the board, stopping short at one particular description. "'By order of Prime Leader Zanramon, a bounty of fifty thousand credits is issued for a female humanoid traveling with a lupine pup and five Gamaron creatures. Yellow hair with green coloration, last seen in the Gamma quadrant, capture alive…'" Her voice trailed off as she realized the description was of her. "Uh-oh."
She slowly pulled her hood down lower.
"Not good, not good, not good..." Midnight whined and wandered over to her. "C'mon, girl. Time to get outta here."
As she walked, she pulled out her T-phone to call her siblings.
"Hisako?" Leo answered.
"Big problem. Really big problem. The Triceratons have called in the Hunters' Guild."
Leo sighed. "Let me guess, they have a bounty on our heads?"
"More specifically mine. Though I'll admit I didn't look hard enough to see if I could find you. I kinda panicked when I saw my own description."
"Understandable. Okay, don't panic. Just keep your head down and get back to the cantina."
"Already on my way. I should be there–"
Before she could finish, something shot the phone out of her hand. It fell to the ground, a charred hole running through it. She immediately spun around, finding a figure in head-to-toe body armor, a smoking blaster in hand.
"Listen, kid, we can do this the easy way, or the way that gets a lot of innocent beings hurt in the clash," he warned. "You can run, but again, lots of beings getting hurt, and you don't look like the type to let innocent people get hurt."
Hisako took a deep breath, beginning to panic.
"Just come quietly."
Midnight growled, hackles raised as she glared at the hunter.
"Cute," the hunter remarked before pulling the trigger. However, instead of a laser blast, it was a strange beam. It hit Midnight and the pup fell.
"Midnight!" Hisako shrieked.
"Just stunned, not dead," Hisako scooped up the dog as the hunter aimed at her. "So... what's it gonna be?"
Hisako stared him down.
-X-
Meanwhile…
"Hisako?!" Leo screamed into the phone. "HISAKO!"
He got no answer. "Damn it!"
"What happened?!" Splinter demanded.
"She got cut off. Her phone won't connect anymore."
"Tracking its last known location now!" Donnie rapidly typed away before getting a signal. "Behind the cantina!"
They were all rushing to the back door, throwing it open. All they found was Hisako's discarded phone.
"Damn it, not again!" Raph cursed.
"Okay, new rule!" Mikey declared. "Hisako is not allowed to go on walks with Midnight alone! Buddy system from now on!"
"Right now, let's just focus on finding her," Leo decided.
Donnie picked up the destroyed phone. "Clean shot. No blood. And there are no signs of a struggle."
"Midnight's not here either," Vee noted. "Meaning whoever took her took Midnight as well."
"So we have no way to track her," Kagome let out.
"Not necessarily," April turned to Leo. "She said the Triceratons issued the bounty, right? We find them, we find her."
"Miss O'Neil, do you have any idea how dangerous that could be?" Honeycutt questioned. "The Triceraton Homeworld will be crawling with enemies, and if they get their mitts on the Heart Pieces we currently have…"
"Then the six of us will ninja in and find her ourselves," Leo decided. "They took our sister. We're getting her back."
"Have you all lost your minds?!" Honeycutt shrieked. "I understand she is your sister, but the risks are too-!"
Five sets of serious eyes fell on the Fugitoid.
"We do not abandon our own," Splinter said sternly.
"The Hamato Clan leaves nobody behind, Professor," Kagome added. "Ever. So either help or stay out of the way."
Honeycutt was at a loss for words, then Casey came and put a hand on his shoulder. "Prof, trust me on this. You're best just staying out of their way on this one."
Honeycutt sighed, realizing there was no talking them out of it.
"Very well, then. I've researched the flagship extensively and downloaded the schematics. I suggest you study them before you run off half-cocked."
"Give us everything you got," Donnie told him. "We need to work out a plan, and fast."
On the Triceraton Homeworld, a lone ship was granted clearance into the capital dome. As the ship landed, Commander Mozar waited with his men as the door opened and the Hunter descended. With him was Hisako, in handcuffs, and Midnight in what looked like an animal carrier.
"Beskar," Mozar greeted.
"Commander Mozar," the hunter, Beskar, replied, holding out the carrier. "This is the pup she was with."
"You hurt one hair on her head, and I'll pull you inside out!" Hisako shouted.
"I believe you," Mozar took the carrier, passing it to one of his men. "Handle with care."
Beskar then held up Hisako's tessen and an obscene number of kunai knives. "I believe this is everything."
"Excellent work," Mozar tossed him a bag. As Beskar turned to go, he stopped, looking at Hisako.
"For the record, kid, nothin' personal. I'm just earning my living. Got a kid of my own to feed."
"I know," Hisako replied as Beskar left.
"Our Prime Leader is eager to meet you, Project Ora-" Mozar began.
"Hisako," Hisako cut in. "My name is Hamato Hisako, not Oracle."
"As you wish, Hisako. Now, if you'll just follow me…"
Hisako scoffed. "Like I have a choice."
She was led to the central building, where Zanramon was waiting for her. She glared up at him, flexing her fingers to try and feel at her bindings. Her eyes also glanced over at the carrier holding her dog, but she didn't try anything. Not yet at least. Mozar got on one knee, bowing to the Prime Leader.
"The Hunter known as Beskar has succeeded in collecting the bounty. I present to you, Hamato Hisako of Earth."
Zanramon rose to his feet. "So, you're Krang's Project Oracle."
Hisako scowled, a snarl escaping her lips. "My name is Hamato Hisako."
"I care little for what you call yourself." Zanramon shot back, approaching her. "Tell me... why do you interfere with my efforts? You have suffered at the hands of General Krang, just as my race has. Don't you realize I'm on your side?"
"My side?" Hisako scoffed. "You're not on my side. If you were, you wouldn't be trying to erase my home."
"The Earth has been infested-"
"Krang isn't even on Earth anymore! He's been stranded on a wasteland planet in Dimension X!"
That took Mozar by surprise, but Zanramon remained firm.
"Even if that were true, we cannot take any chances. Any traces of Krang and his ilk must be eradicated."
"And what of the trillions of innocent lifeforms still on the planet?" Hisako demanded. "What about the innocent Utroms you've slaughtered?!"
That made Zanramon throw back his head and laugh. "Innocents? No, sacrifices. For the greater good. And the very idea of a good Utrom? Ludicrous! Those vile creatures are a pestilence on the universe. We Triceratons are doing the cosmos a favor by destroying them. If this is the way bleeding hearts like you deal with Krang, small wonder he and his troops have infected the Earth so thoroughly. The only value mercy and honor have is to your foe."
"At least we have hearts," Hisako spat. "Yours is just as black and shriveled as Krang's!"
There was a collective gasp from everyone in the room. Zanramon scowled, clearly not pleased with that comparison.
"How dare you?!" he yelled. "You think I'm evil, little girl?! I am JUSTICE! Those who oppose me and my will, they're the evil ones!"
"No, you're not," Hisako said simply. "You're no great hero or protector of justice, Zanramon. You're just a heartless monster, deluded and consumed by hate."
Zanramon shook with rage for a good minute before managing to rein it in.
"Think what you want, but I might be persuaded to spare you... if you tell me where your Gamaron friends are, and where they're keeping the fragments of the Heart of Darkness."
A wad of spit hit his foot while Hisako glared at him in defiance. Zanramon's temper finally snapped and he let out an enraged roar before grabbing her by the throat, bodily lifting her with one hand.
"You will tell me! Where are the Gamarons and the Heart?!"
"Bite me!" Hisako choked out, gasping for air. "You don't- scare me... I'll never- tell you…
Zanramon released her neck and she dropped to the ground, gasping for air. Zanramon turned to his men, gesturing to her.
"Take her away!"
The soldiers yanked Hisako to her feet and dragged her off.
-X-
The guards brought her to a large cell block. They threw her into one, dropping her to the ground.
"You could at least release my hands first!" she shouted.
Instead, one of the guards held out the carrier holding Midnight. Without so much as a word, the pup was dumped into Hisako's lap before the door slammed shut. The pup whimpered a bit but was thankfully unharmed.
Letting out a sigh, Hisako turned around and sat down, her arms pressing slightly into the rough wall thanks to their bindings. She glanced over at the corner of the cell, facing her new cellmates. There were two of them: a humanoid bat with a small humanoid mosquito sitting on his shoulder.
"So," she said casually, "what are you in for?"
"Crossing the Triceratons, of course," the bat replied. "Zanramon doesn't care much for rebels."
"Doesn't care much for anything," the mosquito piped up. "And I thought Krang was a total ass."
"Tell me about it," Hisako agreed, looking at them. "I'm Hisako. And you are?"
"Wingnut," the bat replied before gesturing to the mosquito. "This is my buddy Screwloose."
"Nice to meet you," Hisako said before leaning forward and wiggling her bound hands as best she could. "Think either of you could free my hands? My wrists hurt."
Screwloose flitted over from Wingnut's shoulder, picking the locks slowly. After a minute, the cuffs unlocked and Hisako was able to stretch her arms, rubbing circulation back into her wrists as Screwloose returned to Wingnut's shoulder.
"So... how do you know Krang?" she asked.
"Ever hear of the Dimension X planet Huanu?" Screwloose asked.
Hisako shook her head.
"Not surprising," Wingnut said, his shoulders drooping. "Krang blew it up."
Hisako winced at that. "Sorry."
"Don't be," Screwloose told her. "Krang's the one who's gonna be sorry when we finally get our hands on him."
"He's imprisoned on Balaraphon," Hisako reported. "Him and his army. They're stuck with a dead-in-the-water Technodrome and not a drop of mutagen to their name."
"Serves that pus bag right," Screwloose declared before sighing. "I understand what Zanramon's tryin' to do, but he's takin' it way too far."
"Thank you!" Hisako declared, throwing her arms up in the air. "He wants to destroy my planet, and every innocent creature on it."
"He's nuts, and we're not the only ones who think so," Wingnut remarked. "Just ask our next-door neighbor."
"Neighbor?"
Screwloose gestured to a set of bars along the top of the cell. Curious, Hisako approached them. She had to boost herself up with telekinesis to reach them, but she managed to grab hold, pulling herself up and hooking her arms around the bars.
"Hello?" she called out.
Much to her surprise, she found that the cell was occupied by a lone Triceraton. He was sitting on the ground but glanced up when he saw her in the bars.
"Hello."
She recoiled in shock, releasing the bars and dropping to the ground. She landed with a thud, rubbing her butt.
"A Triceraton?" Hisako asked, picking herself up and boosting herself back up to the bars once more. "Sorry, I just… I wasn't expecting-"
"It's alright," the Triceraton replied, rising to his feet and giving her a small bow. "I am Traximus."
"Hamato Hisako." She nodded her head and gave a small salute as her hands were busy. "If you don't mind me asking, why are you in here with us?"
"I opposed Zanramon's regime," Traximus explained, looking away. "The Triceraton Republic was once grand and virtuous, valuing honor. Until that tyrant took over."
"So he really is as bad as the stories make him out to be," Hisako mused.
"Worse," Traximus corrected. "When I objected to his actions, he accused me of high treason and threw me in here."
"Imprisoned for speaking out?" Hisako asked, looking down for a moment. "Man, no wonder Zog was willing to let us kill him. I'd hate to think what betraying your people would merit."
After a minute, she looked up, wondering something.
"I gotta ask… What the hell did Krang ever do to Zanramon to make him such a monster?"
Traximus scoffed. "Nothing."
"What?" Hisako asked in surprise. "What do you mean nothing?"
"Zanramon has never personally suffered at Krang's hands." Traximus clarified. "His ancestors were among the first mutated and enslaved, eons ago. He's fixated on his own power and redeeming what he sees as his family honor, and that hate has consumed him."
"Sounds like someone I know back home," Hisako remarked, thinking that Zanramon and the Shredder would probably get along well. "But it's clear that not everyone agrees with him. Mozar was hesitant to stop us back on Xaava-Dal, and Zog was only following orders out of fear. Why not rise up and overthrow him?"
"We tried," Traximus replied. "That's why Wingnut, Screwloose, and I are locked up here."
"Surely the rest of your army is trying to find you," Hisako said before pausing. "You do have an army, right?"
"Most of 'em ended up tossed into the Tri-Arena," Wingnut answered.
"Oh…" Hisako let out, releasing her grip on the bars and dropping back down to the ground. "I've heard rumors about that place. How you're forced to fight one another to the death."
"Yes," Traximus said. "That was my sentence when I objected to Zanramon years ago."
"He's the champion," Screwloose added. "Traximus the Undefeatable, they call him."
"Forced to destroy your own comrades…" Hisako shivered, hugging herself. "I'm amazed you're still alive. I probably would have-"
She cut herself off before she said anything else.
"I nearly did," Traximus confessed. "So many times... I came close to taking my own life. But my hope of someday putting an end to Zanramon's regime kept me alive."
"Well, maybe you'll get your chance," Hisako suggested.
"Is that so?" Wingnut asked.
"Yes," Hisako replied. "If I had to wager a guess, I'd say they're planning their strategy even as we speak."
"Who's 'they'?" Screwloose questioned.
Hisako just smiled, leaning back slightly.
"My family."
Back on the Ulixes, Honeycutt displayed a holographic map of the Triceraton flagship.
"Alright," he began. "Our means of entry will be the airlock right here."
He pointed to a specific part of the map. "The cellblock is two levels below."
"Meaning we got two floors worth of Triceratons between us and Hisako," Raph remarked.
"Leonardo, you, Kagome, and your siblings will infiltrate the homeworld fragment," Honeycutt went on. "Your father, April, Casey, and I will remain on the Ulixes and monitor your progress."
Splinter seemed uneasy to be sending his children into the Triceraton flagship by themselves, something that didn't go unnoticed.
"Don't worry, Splinter," Kagome assured, placing a hand on his arm. "We'll get Hisako and get out no sweat."
-X-
The Hamato sextet (1) took a small ship, described by Honeycutt as a "stealth shuttle," out to the flagship, going for the airlock.
"Are you sure we're invisible in this thing, Donnie?" Leo asked.
"Absolutely!" Donnie replied before twiddling his thumbs. "Almost completely positive, sort of-ish."
"Oh, that's comforting." Vee quipped.
The ship slowly flew towards the airlock.
"Beginning docking procedure," Donnie reported.
The ship docked in the airlock and they cautiously piled out.
"Sure is quiet…" Mikey whispered.
"Let's hope it stays that way," said Raph.
"Knowing us, I'd say we better prepare for the worst," Kagome remarked.
They all had their weapons on the ready as they snuck through the halls, but suddenly, they found themselves confronted by numerous soldiers, all armed with guns. They parted to reveal Mozar, who clapped slowly.
"You're surprisingly easy to predict." the commander remarked.
"Damn…" Leo muttered. "This was a trap! You knew we'd try and rescue Hisako!"
"Precisely," Mozar replied. "Now hand over the black hole generator pieces and I'll release you all."
"Hmm…" Vee tapped her chin in thought. "Anyone ever tell you you look like you weigh a thousand pounds?"
"And what is that supposed to mean?" Mozar asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Fat chance!" Vee yelled.
Mozar sighed.
"You leave me no choice." He snapped his claws. "Take them to the cells. They'll be the opening act in the next Games."
-X-
The six were dragged down to the cellblock, stripped of their weapons, and tossed into a cell right next to Hisako's. She perked up, sensing them.
"Guys?!" she exclaimed.
She jumped up to the bars looking in on the other cell, seeing the six of them slowly picking themselves up off the ground. Mikey was the first to notice her, giving her a small wave.
"Hey, sis!" Mikey greeted. "We're here to rescue you!"
Hisako raised an eyebrow. "By getting captured yourselves?"
"The plan hit a snag," Leo said matter-of-factly.
"Wow," Hisako said flatly, plopping down on the ground. "Great job, guys. My heroes."
Screwloose flew up to the bars, looking through to see the six prisoners.
"These six are your family?" he asked.
"Yep." Hisako nodded. "Guys, that's Screwloose. He and his buddy Wingnut and my cellmates. The guy next door to me is Traximus."
"Greetings," Wingnut called out.
"What fate has been decided for you?" Traximus asked.
"Mozar said we'd be the opening act in the next Games." Kagome mused. "What's that mean?"
"Monopoly?" Mikey suggested. "Football?"
"Games?" Hisako repeated, burying her face in her hands. "Fuuuuuck…"
"I'm guessing that's a bad thing," Donnie remarked.
"You're not all that bright, are you?" Wingnut deadpanned.
"We're not from around here," Raph replied.
"You're scheduled to fight in the Triceraton Arena, kid." Screwloose piped up. "Big gladiator thing."
"Oh," Vee said quietly. "So, what're we gonna fight?"
"You're newcomers to the arena." Traximus chipped in. "Newcomers are always pitted against a Spasmosaur. You will meet a quick and painful end."
"Well, thanks for the vote of confidence!" Kagome snapped.
"Spasmosaur…" Hisako gulped, banging her head against the wall. "You just had to get caught."
"Um…" Leo piped up, "Just how dangerous is a Spasmosaur?"
"Big, purple, and ugly," Wingnut explained. "Razor-sharp teeth, lots of tentacles."
"Yipes…" Mikey let out. "Anyone missing the Shredder right about now?"
His siblings and Kagome all raised their hands.
"For the love of Bushido, please tell me this rescue had a Plan B." Hisako pleaded.
"Professor Honeycutt was monitoring our progress," Leo told her. "He, Sensei, April, and Casey will work something out. In the meantime, is there any way of stopping the Spasmosaur?"
"It's invulnerable, except for one white spot on its flank," Traximus replied.
"So we have a one in a million chance of winning," Vee said. "Think they'll let us have our weapons?"
At that moment, the door opened and two soldiers entered, all of them carrying the group's weapons. Hisako's cell opened as well, a soldier holding her tessen.
"Gamarons and Terrans," one of them said, "time for your bout."
"What about Midnight?" Hisako questioned.
"The lupin pup stays," the guard replied. "Something that small isn't even entertainment. Don't know why Mozar said to put it with you."
With that, the Hamato siblings and Kagome were led out of their cells and all taken to the arena.
"Good luck, warriors," Traximus told them. "You'll need it."
-X-
The seven were forced into a large dirt arena, cheering Triceratons on all sides as an announcer's voice sounded from above.
"Fellow saurians, subjects of the Empire, we have strange new contestants for today's games." the announcer declared. "Five warrior Gamarons, and two warrior Terrans!"
They looked up at the booth the announcer's voice came from and saw none other than Zanramon seated there as well.
" So... that must be the head honcho." Raph mused.
"That's him." Hisako agreed. "Prime Leader Dickface himself."
"Wow, tell us how you really feel." Mikey deadpanned.
Zanramon stood at that, approaching the edge of the booth.
"Warriors, you will perish for your crimes against my regime." he declared. "But I grant you the chance to win your freedom through the glory of battle. And your first opponent, the mighty Spasmosaur!"
A door on the far end of the arena opened at, and they heard loud, thudding footsteps slowly approaching. From the door came a massive purple creature with long tentacles and jagged teeth, roaring loudly.
"Um…" Donnie squeaked, "I think we had better odds when we were fighting demon bats."
Suddenly, they heard the unmistakable ripping sound of a loud fart and they all turned to see Mikey standing stiffly with both hands on his lower back.
"...He crapped himself," Vee said flatly. "Lovely."
Kagome took a deep breath, swallowing her panic.
"Okay, stay calm." she insisted. "Stick together, and go for that weak spot."
"Just one question," said Leo. "Where is the weak spot?"
"We'll need to find it without getting eaten!" Hisako yelled, pointing.
The Spasmosaur stomped towards them, swinging its tentacles down…
Back on the Ulixes, April focused, her crystal glowing.
"You've gotta be kidding me…" she muttered.
"What's the word?" Casey asked.
"They all got captured," April reported, standing up. "Damn it, the Triceratons were expecting this!"
"A clever strategy," Splinter remarked. "One we fell for completely. Where are they now?"
April focused again, closing her eyes.
"Some kind of arena," she reported.
Honeycutt gasped in horror.
"Oh, dear." he let out. "They've been taken to the Tri-Arena."
"You mean like gladiators?" Casey asked. "Wicked!"
"Yes. Wicked and cruel." Honeycutt replied. "There is no telling what monsters they'll be forced to fight."
"Something called a 'Spasmosaur'," April said.
"A Spasmosaur?!" Honeycutt shrieked. "Oh no. This is not good. Not good at all."
"Professor, how much danger are my children in?" Splinter demanded.
"Spasmosaurs have thick, rubbery skin," Honeycutt explained. "Except for a specific spot on their flank, it's impenetrable."
"WHERE IS THE SPOT?!" Casey and April demanded.
"On their flank! Their side!" Honeycutt said hurriedly. "It's a white spot, standing out amongst the Spasmosaur's purple pigmentation! The problem is actually getting to it!"
"You're not helping!" April shouted, the ship shaking from the force.
"I'm trying my best!" Honeycutt insisted before calming himself and working out a solution. "I can remote-pilot the shuttle. If we sneak aboard while everyone is watching the games, we should have little trouble finding their prison cell. Assuming they survive their first battle."
Back in the Arena, the Hamato septet was busy avoiding the Spasmosaur's attacks, while trying to find the weak spot Traximus informed them off.
"Anyone find the spot?!" Leo demanded, jumping over a tentacle.
"Got nothing!" Vee replied.
"All I see are tentacles trying to rip my head off!" Kagome yelled.
"A white spot on its flank! One of its sides!" Donnie reminded them. "Keep your eyes open!"
"I'm starting to think your buddy was wrong, Hisako!" Mikey shouted.
"Just keep looking!" Hisako snapped.
Raph ducked a swinging tentacle, and then he saw it: a circular patch of white skin, in the middle of the Spasmosaur's left flank.
"I got it!" Raph yelled, pointing.
"Go for it!" Leo ordered. "We'll cover you!"
Raph charged in, drawing his sais. The others intercepted the tentacles, giving him a clear path. The Spasmosaur started thrashing, but Hisako's Aeon crystal glowed as she focused, and it was completely immobilized.
"Now, Raph!" she screamed.
Raph charged in, plunging his sai as deep as he could into the white spot. The Spasmosaur howled in pain, thrashing wildly before it collapsed, its tentacles landing in a massive heap. The seven teens panted, looking it over.
"Did we win?" Vee asked.
The crowd was silent for a moment, before exploding into cheers.
"I'd say yes," said Leo.
Zanramon watched from the stands, quite intrigued and entertained.
"They fight better than expected," he mused. "I can see how they could have bested Mozar."
He stood up, raising his voice.
"Congratulations, off-worlders!" he declared. "You have survived the Spasmosaur! Not many can claim such a feat!"
-X-
Elsewhere, Mozar was called to a surveillance room by several soldiers.
"Commander, we have intruders," a soldier reported. "I have no idea how they got back security."
He showed them security footage, displaying Splinter, April, Casey, and Honeycutt sneaking along.
"Two primates, a rat man, and…" he looked closely, "Isn't that Professor Honeycutt's robot assistant?"
"Impossible," Mozar insisted. "The robot would have been shut off in the wake of the Professor's death. Unless…"
His eyes widened in realization, then he turned to the soldier.
"Call the men."
Meanwhile, the others were sneaking through the ship.
"Well…" Casey muttered, "We're completely lost."
"We are not lost, Casey." Honeycutt insisted. "I'm just not completely sure where we are."
"Professor, that's the definition of lost," April said flatly.
"April, can you try and find my children with your telepathy?" Splinter asked.
"I can try," April replied. "It's hard to pinpoint exact locations."
She closed her eyes and focused, only for them to snap back open as she sensed several other presences approaching.
"Shit… Triceratons!" she exclaimed. "They know we're here!"
"Time to make tracks!" Casey yelled, grabbing her hand.
They all took off through the halls, but it wasn't long before they ran into a squadron of soldiers, led by Mozar. The commander's eyes fell on Honeycutt.
"It's been a long time…" he said, "Professor Zayton Honeycutt of D'Hoonib."
The foursome all gasped at that.
"How…" Honeycutt let out, "how did you…?"
"Your robotic assistant has the necessary power to sustain a life support system," Mozar replied. "Your body may be destroyed, but I'm positive your mind is still intact."
Honeycutt mulled it over before making a decision.
"Splinter, take April and Casey and run!" he ordered. "I'll hold them back!"
"What?!" April objected. "But Professor-"
"You heard the robot!" Casey shouted. "Run!"
The trio ran away while Mozar grabbed Honeycutt's arm.
"I believe the Prime Leader would like a word." the commander said.
Meanwhile, the Hamato siblings and Kagome had been led back to the cells. Hisako was clinging to the bars looking in on her siblings, the seven of them discussing their victory with the others.
"Few have faced a Spasmosaur and survived," Traximus mused. "You're lucky to be alive."
"That's not luck," Mikey boasted. "That's ninja training, bro."
"They may suck at rescues, but when it comes to fighting, they're the best," Hisako said, reaching through the bars toward her family. "Should've known we'd make it through."
"We've survived worse," Leo remarked. "Can't... really think of any worse situations offhand, but I'm sure we have."
Raph gave Hisako's hand a squeeze.
"All we need to do is figure out how to bust out of here." he insisted.
"I'm sure Splinter's coming," Vee said. "And unlike us, he won't be so easily caught."
At that moment, the doors to the cellblock opened again, revealing a soldier. Hisako dropped off the bars just as the cell doors opened.
"You're up again, off-worlders," he said. "Bring the lupin pup this time."
"Already?" Donnie asked.
"I fear I know who you are fighting next, Turtles," Traximus said. "Fight with honor and you will find glory."
Leo nodded as they stood up.
"If we don't see you again, Traximus, good luck getting your freedom," he called out.
"Thank you, my friend," Traximus replied with a smile, facing his cell door as it slid open. "I might need it."
While the Hamato teens were being led back to the arena, Mozar brought Honeycutt himself to Zanramon.
"Mozar, what is the meaning of this?" the Prime Leader demanded. "Why have you brought this machine?"
"This is no machine." Mozar insisted. "This is Professor Zayton Honeycutt himself."
Zanramon looked at him like he was insane. "Honeycutt is dead, Mozar. I killed him myself.".
"But his robotic assistant had a sustainable life support system, and his brain was left unharmed."
"Greetings, I am Sal," Honeycutt said emotionlessly, playing the part of a simple machine. "How may I be of service?"
Zanramon looked at him, then Mozar.
"What are you trying to pull here?" he snarled.
"I swear to you, it's Professor Honeycutt!" Mozar insisted.
"The Professor?" Honeycutt asked, continuing his robotic impression. "Have you seen him? He has been missing for 276 solar cycles."
"I'll prove it to you!" Mozar yelled.
He reached for Honeycutt's head, clearly planning to rip his head open and expose the fleshy brain within. Honeycutt let out a cry and flinched, covering his head. Zanramon stroked his chin in thought.
"Hmmm…" he remarked. "Quite an emotional reaction from a mere machine."
Honeycutt slumped, defeated and exposed. "Oh, bugger."
"And not only that, he was with the Gamarons and Terrans back on Xaava-Dal," Mozar revealed. "He's in league with them!"
"Is that so?" Zanramon grinned. "In that case, I'm sure he'll enjoy the next show."
Honeycutt was brought next to Zanramon, where he got a clear view of the Turtles, Hisako, and Kagome in the arena below.
"Those seven are due to face the undefeated champion, Professor," Zanramon informed him. "But you can stop their suffering... if you complete the Heart of Darkness for me."
Honeycutt glared at him. "I will never build such a weapon for you, Zanramon."
Zanramon shrugged, leaning back to enjoy the show. "Have it your way."
-X-
Down in the arena, the Hamato teens had their weapons at the ready. Midnight was standing between them and the arena, hackles raised in aggression.
"And now, the outsiders face your Triceraton champion!" the announcer declared. "The great... the merciless... Traximus the Undefeatable!"
"Traximus?!" Hisako exclaimed. "Oh, fuck me."
"Traximus?" Leo asked. "The guy who gave us advice on the Spasmosaur?"
Hisako nodded just as Traximus came into the arena, wielding a massive battle-axe. The crowd was whipped into a frenzy, cheering his name in jubilation.
"Oh, man…" Hisako let out in fear.
"So… this is how it ends," Traximus mused. "We meet in glorious battle."
"We can't fight you, man!" Mikey pleaded. "We're pals!"
"You are honorable beings and deserve a warrior's end," Traximus said, lifting his axe off of his shoulder. "Perhaps I will only chop off a limb or two."
"What?!" Vee shrieked. "How is that better?!"
"Traximus, please," Hisako pleaded. "You don't have to do this!"
"We want the same thing!" Kagome added. "To get rid of the Heart of Darkness!"
"Please, the fate of our planet is at stake!" Leo insisted.
"Do it, Traximus!" Zanramon ordered from his booth. "Finish the offworlders, and you will have earned your freedom!"
Traximus hesitated for the briefest of seconds, then whirled on Zanramon's booth, throwing his axe at his throne and narrowly missing him. Zanramon flinched, then glared down at him.
"YES!" Hisako cheered.
"You dare?!" Zanramon demanded.
"Yes, I do!" Traximus declared. "You're not fit to be Prime Leader, Zanramon! You're dishonorable! Cowardly! Stooping to the level of General Krang himself!"
The crowd gasped and Mikey grinned.
"Oooh, burn. Need some aloe vera, Zanramon?"
Traximus glared up at the crowd.
"The Triceraton Republic once stood for honor! Zanramon has perverted it! Twisted it into a mockery of its former self! And I will no longer battle for his sick amusement!" He looked right at Zanramon as he went on. "Get your entertainment somewhere else!"
Now a few Triceratons were growing bolder, many of them alternatively chanting Traximus' name or "Down with Zanramon!" Shaking with rage, Zanramon glared at his troops.
"Seize him!" he shouted. "Destroy him!"
Several troops stormed in, and Traximus turned to the Hamato teens.
"Get out of here," he told them. "I can handle this."
Hisako hesitated, then nodded. Using her Aeon crystal, she levitated herself, Midnight, and her siblings to Zanramon's booth, much to the Prime Leader's shock.
"Surprise, motherfucker!" Raph taunted.
Hisako telekinetically slammed him against the wall and the gang drew their weapons just as Mozar and several troops came in.
"Nobody move!" Kagome warned. "Or King Dino-Boy here gets it!"
The troops immediately froze up.
"Okay, here's what's gonna happen," Leo told them. "You're gonna let our robot pal go, and we're gonna walk out of here."
"Better do what we say," Hisako added. "We have a history of going nuts when we don't get our way."
Mozar immediately released Honeycutt, who ran over to them.
"Thank goodness you're all alright," he said in relief.
"You fools!" Zanramon screamed. "You have made a grave enemy of the Triceraton Republic. Even if you get off this ship alive, we will find you wherever you go in the Ten Dimensions, and DESTROY YOU!"
"Just try it, buddy!" Vee shot back.
With that, Hisako threw Zanramon across the room and they bolted out of the door.
It wasn't long before they ran into Splinter, Casey, and April, themselves fleeing from troops.
"Dad!" Hisako exclaimed.
"My children!" Splinter said.
"Guys!" shouted April.
They all hugged in relief before Honeycutt made a sound as if he was clearing his throat.
"I hate to cut the reunion short, but we need to go!" he shouted.
That snapped them back to attention, and they hurried for the airlock, only to find themselves surrounded by Triceratons.
"We got bogeys!" Donnie yelled.
Suddenly, something swooped in, bashing the guards all unconscious. The figure flew down, revealing it to be Wingnut.
"Wingnut!" Hisako exclaimed.
"And Screwloose!" Screwloose added, knocking down several guards who were trying to get back up.
"Who?" Splinter asked.
"Two of Hisako's cellmates," Leo explained.
"Mind if we hitch a ride?" Wingnut asked.
"Not at all," Leo replied. "How'd you get out?"
"Traximus came and busted us out," Screwloose replied. "Guess he got his second chance at a revolution, after all."
-X-
They all hurried to the airlock, speeding back to the Ulixes in the stealth shuttle.
"So, why you coming with us?" Raph asked.
"We want to stop the Heart of Darkness," Wingnut replied. "That, and Hisako told us about your fight against Krang. We've got a score to settle with him."
"Then come on in," Raph said with a smile. "Any enemy of Krang and Zanramon is a friend of ours."
Back on the Triceraton flagship, Zanramon fumed over what happened in the arena as Mozar entered.
"Mozar…" Zanramon began, his voice deadly calm, "Those Gamarons and their allies are to be executed on sight."
"And Professor Honeycutt?" Mozar asked.
"From this day forth, he is a criminal in the eyes of the Republic," Zanramon replied. "Nothing more than a fugitive android."
"As you command, sir," Mozar said, bowing. "I will have all eyes and ears out for the Gamarons and the Fugitoid."
"Good." Zanramon declared. "See that you do."
Author's Note:
(1): A group of six.
Well, things got pretty hectic here. And I finally got around to introducing Honeycutt's "Fugitoid" moniker.
My version of Traximus is a mix of the character himself and Zeno from 2012, whereas Wingnut and Screwloose originated in Archie's TMNT Adventures; using that incarnation. And yes, Beskar is an expy of Din Djarin of The Mandalorian.
Next chapter, it's a race against the Triceratons to retrieve the third piece of the Heart. Is the gang up to the challenge?
Voice cast for this chapter:
* Wingnut - Matthew Mercer (Levi Ackerman in Attack on Titan, Kiritsugu Emiya in Fate/Zero, Jotaro Kujo in JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, Aikurō Mikisugi in Kill la Kill, Kanji Tatsumi from the second half of Persona 4: The Animation onward, Yamato and Pain in Naruto, Trafalgar Law in One Piece, Hit in Dragon Ball Super, Seijirou Kikuoka in Sword Art Online, Falco in Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, Leorio in Hunter x Hunter, Leon S. Kennedy in Resident Evil 6, Ganondorf in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Kurtis Stryker in Mortal Kombat 9, Chrom and Ryoma in Fire Emblem, Jack Cooper in Titanfall 2, Espio the Chameleon in Sonic the Hedgehog, Deadshot in Injustice 2, Cole Cassidy in Overwatch, Yusuke Kitagawa in Persona 5, MacCready in Fallout 4, Midas and Syd in Fortnite: Battle Royale and Fortnite: Save the World respectively, Edér Teylecg and Aloth Corfiser in Pillars of Eternity, Gangplank and Kindred's Wolf in League of Legends, Walter in Shin Megami Tensei IV, Ira from Kingdom Hearts, Goro Majima from Yakuza: Like a Dragon)
* Screwloose - Derek Stephen Prince (Elgar from Power Rangers Turbo, Keitaro Urashima in Love Hina, DemiDevimon and Piedmon in Digimon Adventure, Ken Ichijouji and Veemon in Digimon Adventure 02, Impmon in Digimon Tamers, Uryū Ishida in Bleach, Iggy in JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Stardust Crusaders, Shino Aburame in Naruto, Vexen in Kingdom Hearts)
* Traximus - Paul St. Peter (Punch in Cowboy Bebop: The Movie, Mondego in Gankutsuou: The Count of Monte Cristo, Kurama in Naruto, Razor in Hunter × Hunter, Yammy Riyalgo in Bleach, Leomon in Digimon, Jorgun in Gurren Lagann, Higa in Durarara!, Xemnas in Kingdom Hearts)
* Zanramon - Jamieson Price (Count of Monte Cristo in Gankutsuou, Sojiro Sakura in Persona 5, Ovan in .hack/G.U., Milton Grimm in Ever After High, Reeve Tuesti in the Compilation of Final Fantasy VII, Yukio Oikawa in Digimon Adventure 02, Lordgenome in Gurren Lagann)
* Beskar - Pedro Pascal (Din Djarin in The Mandalorian and The Book of Boba Fett, Oberyn Martell in Game of Thrones, Max Powers in Wonder Woman 1984)
Please R&R. Until next time!