- Chapter 94 -
The War for Dimension X
Hisako was on her stomach, her hair twisted up into a quick and easy bun to keep it off her neck. She had a pillow in her hand as she gripped it in her white knuckles, occasionally biting it to try and keep herself in check. Why? Because at that moment, Professor Honeycutt was in the process of burning off her barcode tattoo as Commander Mozar had suggested.
"Why didn't you tell us that barcode on your neck was a homing beacon?!" Casey demanded, trying very hard to ignore the smell of burning flesh in the air.
"Oh, you know, Case. I thought it'd be fun to have our enemies track us everywhere we go and hound our every step," Hisako said sarcastically before scowling. "Because I didn't fucking know! You think I want to be used as a way to track my family?!"
The lights flickered dangerously and some small things began to hover in the air.
"Okay, cool it!" Leo cut in. "Flipping out and screaming isn't gonna solve anything."
"Thankfully, it will soon be a non-issue," the Professor insisted as he continued to burn away the code. "Commander Mozar was not lying about how this barcode works and even offered up a viable solution. Though it makes me wonder why he would even speak up when there was a chance we would erase their edge."
Splinter stroked his chin in thought. "Perhaps there is more to this Commander Mozar than we all initially believed. We cannot forget that he too was a victim of Krang."
"Well whatever the case, the sooner that thing is gone the better," Raph declared, crossing his arms.
Finally, the laser cut off. Honeycutt carefully placed a medical pad on Hisako's slightly red, now barcode-free nape. With the ordeal over, the girl practically collapsed onto the medical slab.
"There we are. All gone," the Professor announced.
Hisako nodded, then scooped up Midnight, who had been sitting on a stool near her face.
"I'm gonna take a nap. Wake me when we get wherever it is we're going."
In the capital of Neutrino, Sal Commander and Mona Lisa knelt before King Zenter and Queen Gizzla.
"We share a mutual enemy, King Zenter," said Sal Commander. "The Triceratons are formidable, but if we combine the forces of our two races, we could eradicate them from the galaxy."
"You'll find it valuable to have great warriors like the Salamandrians on your side," Mona added.
"While your offer is valuable, I'm afraid you are mistaken," Zenter said. "We have been doing our best to simply survive, to continue our way of life here in our kingdom."
"We were fortunate enough to have most of Krang's men sealed away in the Technodrome, which now sits amidst a black hole," Gizzla added. "We are the closest to peace that we have ever been in millennia."
"With all due respect, what guarantee do you have that the Triceratons will not destroy that peace?" Sal Commander asked.
"Do you truly think the Prime Leader will stop with eradicating Krang?" Mona added. "His ambitions are the same as the Utroms. Once he's done with our dimension, where do you think he'll turn to next?"
"We have done nothing to antagonize the Prime Leader," Zenter pointed out. "Why would we be targeted?"
"Salamandria did nothing to antagonize him either. Did that stop him from attacking us?"
"Zanramon will wipe out any and all that he considers a threat," Sal Commander added. "The only chance you have for true peace is to stop him once and for all."
Zenter grimaced, as did Gizzla.
"The risk is far too great, but we can't deny that you have a point," Gizzla conceded.
"And yet those Gamarons face them despite the risks."
"Gamarons?" Stavros stepped forward. "Adolescents? Wearing multicolored masks? Did they have humans with them?"
"They did, yes," Sal Commander confirmed. "The one in orange has called me Sal Commander while the one in red called my companion Mona Lisa."
"I believe he said she was the 'most beautiful woman in all art and stuff'," Mona recalled.
"The Turtles," Stavros realized. "But if they're facing the Triceratons, then…"
"Then the Prime Leader has set his sights on Earth." Zenter finished.
The color drained from Stavros' face. "Ximena…"
"Go," Gizzla urged. "Your daughter needs you."
Stavros didn't wait a moment before heading off.
"As for you, Commander G'Throkka," Zenter said, "I cannot spare much manpower, but if nothing else, the Gamarons of Earth have done too much for Neutrino for us to not offer aid in this hour. To do nothing would bring shame upon our race. Speak with General Stavros upon his return. His unit of elite warriors will be at your disposal. It is not much, but I fear it is all we can offer without crippling our defenses."
"It will suffice," Sal Commander bowed respectfully.
On Earth, Stavros materialized in Mortu's office.
"Mortu!" he called. Mortu practically flew out of his seat, letting out a noise that sounded like Utrom's native tongue. Stavros made out screaming and a curse. Two guards were immediately training guns on him.
"General Stavros?" Mortu sighed, putting a hand on his chest. "Please... don't ever do that again."
"The Triceratons are coming to Earth?!"
"Unfortunately…" Mortu perked. "But how did you-?"
"Two Salamandrians came to Smada City requesting our aid. They met the Hamato family during their travels."
Mortu couldn't help but chuckle. "Of course they did. Those turtles truly cause ripples that are felt even here on Earth."
"Where are Tara and Ximena?"
"They are making use of the Guardian training facilities. Your daughter is an eager student, wishing to learn the ways of your people," Mortu stood up. "Come. I'll take you there."
They headed to a lower level. Through the open door, the shadows of Tara and Ximena were visible. Tara placed her hands on Ximena's shoulders.
"Perfect, Ximena," Tara slowly leaned in. "Now put your arms around me, like so…"
Stavros' jaw dropped before he hurried in, just in time to see Tara throw Ximena the full width of the room; the latter spun in the air a bit before landing with a thud. She laughed from the ground, grinning.
"Alright, I think I got it." She stood up, shaking her head to clear it before noticing who was watching. "Dad!" She rushed forward, hugging her father.
"General," Tara saluted. "What do we owe the pleasure?"
"I know what you face. The Triceraton Empire is coming to this world."
"Yes," Tara nodded. "We were informed of this."
"Everyone has been running around like crazy trying to prepare," Ximena added.
"The Hamato family went into space to try to intercept them," Tara included.
"So why are you here?" Ximena asked. "Have you come to help with the war effort?"
Stavros nodded. "In a manner of speaking. Once we return, we're going to prepare on Neutrino."
"'We'?' Ximena blinked.
"Yes. It is time for you to see your homeland."
Ximena gasped, her eyes sparkling.
"Sir, with all due respect, please tell me we're not abandoning Earth outright," Tara piped up. "I love our world, make no mistake, but the Gamarons need us. They've done too much for our people for us to do nothing."
"We are not," Stavros assured. "The king has granted me permission to gather my elite forces and aid in the coming war."
Tara nodded at that.
"I can't wait!" Ximena exclaimed.
They headed out, unaware of the darkly chuckling Utrom in the vents.
"Finally... my ticket off this damned rock."
Meanwhile, in the rec room of the Ulixes, as everyone settled in to relax, Raph and Kagome snuggling next to each other, the others took notice of one thing: Donnie was visibly uncomfortable and doing everything possible to either keep his distance from April or avoid eye contact with her, alternating between looking over his weapons, fiddling with a gadget, or reading an upside-down magazine. Finally, he sat down to give Mikey a physics lesson.
"Okay, okay, focus, Mikey. This is basic stuff."
"Donnie, are you seriously trying to explain black holes to Mikey again?" Raph asked. "It's a waste of time!"
"Whatever," Mikey scoffed. "I can do science stuff. I'm great at dancing the robot."
"The robot dance isn't science," Leo said.
"It is when I do it," Mikey began dancing. "Beep-bop. Beep-bop, bope-bop."
"Speaking as a robot, that's actually pretty good!" Honeycutt remarked.
"Black holes suck in everything," Donnie went on. "Not even light can escape a black hole's gravitational singularity."
"Why not? Beep-bop, boop-bop."
"Because they're infinitely dense."
"So they're just like you, Mikey." Raph joked.
Vee sighed. "Okay, seriously, Don. Are you that desperate for an excuse not to talk to April?"
"Seriously, D," Hisako remarked. "This is getting pathetic. I mean you're attempting to explain black holes… to Mikey."
"Desperate?" Donnie asked. "Who's desperate?"
"You're trying to give advanced physics lessons to Mikey ," Kagome pointed out. "The guy whose brain is nothing but cheese due to a steady diet of cartoons and sugar."
"Mmmm… cheese," Mikey let out.
"Now that they mention it, they're right," April stood up. "Ever since the Christmas party, you've been walking on eggshells around me. Keeping your distance, walking out of the room when I come in... did I do something wrong?"
"No!" Donnie exclaimed. "It's not you, it's me! I just... I can't…" He pointed. "Look! A bald eagle with a mustache!"
He practically knocked over the chair scrambling away, only for Hisako to catch her with TK.
"Nope," she said, plopping him back where he was sitting. "We're talking this out. This ship is too small for extended drama." She waved, another chair sliding out for April. "Take a seat."
April happily did so.
"We're gonna be together on this ship for six months, so let's air this out and get it over with," As they headed for the door, Leo stopped, turning back toward them. "Oh, and don't bother going for the door. Neither of you are leaving this room until you work this out."
Everyone left and the doors shut. There was a loud thunk, indicating a lock. All was silent for several moments before Donnie sighed, rubbing his eyes.
"...I saw you and Casey under the mistletoe together."
"Oh?" April blushed slightly. "Yeah… I forgot about that. Is… is that why you've been…?"
Donnie sighed again. "Yeah."
April took that in. "Donnie... Listen, you're sweet, but... I just don't like you like that. You're a good friend, and you're like a brother to me."
"I know. Look, April... I've been avoiding you because I was scared of history repeating itself. You know how Dad and Shredder's friendship fell apart because they fought over Tang Shen."
"And you were worried about that happening with you and Casey?"
Donnie nodded. "I don't want to be like Shredder, but I can't deny how much seeing you with him makes me feel. I... went a bit postal after I saw you two kiss. Let's just say that my rant came off as a bit Shredder-esque before Leo and the others snapped me out of it."
"Oh,, Don… Listen to me, you and the others, you're like family to me. You will always have a place in my heart, but I love Casey."
Donnie sighed, managing a smile. "I won't deny that I wish things could've worked out that way between us, April. But as long as you're happy, that's what matters. You don't always get the girl you think you deserve... and I can live with that."
April smiled at that. "Thank you, Donnie. And I genuinely hope you find someone who makes you happy. You deserve it."
"Thanks, April. And I hope Casey treats you the way you deserve. So…" he offered a hand. "Friends?"
April took that hand, shaking it. "Friends."
Outside, Hisako smiled. "They made up."
Honeycutt unlocked the door, allowing them to exit.
"Now why didn't we think of doing this sooner?" Mikey asked.
"Who knows?" Honeycutt wondered.
"Too bad we can't do the same for Hisako and Sam," Leo mused.
Hisako turned beet-red. "Leo!"
"Oh, don't go acting like you're completely without feelings, Hisako," Mikey said. "We've seen how you light up around him."
"I… so what if I do?"
"Hey, don't deny it," Kagome said. "We've seen how he makes you laugh. Your smile actually reaches your eyes around him."
"He's funny… that's all."
"And sensitive, and caring, and brave," Mikey listed off.
"And he's cute," Vee added. "Even an aromantic ace like me can see that."
"It doesn't matter, guys!" Hisako snapped before composing herself. "No matter what I think of him, he deserves better. Sam's an amazing guy. He deserves the best, a girl who can be there for him and support him... and that's not me."
Midnight whined and crawled into her lap.
"It's the truth, Midnight. I'm damaged goods. There are days when I can't even get out of bed, or one of you guys has to feed me. I have more baggage than an airport. He deserves better than that."
"What he deserves and what he wants are two different things," Honeycutt chimed in. "And you'll never know unless you try."
They turned to him at that.
"Professor?" Mikey let out.
"You… you're speaking from personal experience, aren't you?" Hisako asked.
"Yes," Honeycutt sighed, sitting down. "I should tell you all the truth. I was once a Neutrino, as I said before, but what I didn't tell you was that I had a family. A wife named Marra... and a young son named Ely. But that all went down the drain when I foolishly agreed to a job offer I received from Supreme Commander Quanin of Utrominon."
Hisako perked at that. "That… that's Krang's father."
"Yes... the source of all of Krang's evil and atrocities. I helped them construct technology like the Technodrome, believing that I was doing good, helping Quanin and his son defend their race and others."
"Seriously?" Raph let out. "You actually believed him? Why is it that super-geniuses never seem to have an ounce of common sense?"
"I feel I should be offended," Donnie deadpanned.
Raph just gave him a look. "Two words: Metalhead."
"Zip it, guys!" April snapped before turning to Honeycutt. "Continue, Professor."
"Thank you, Miss O'Neil," Honeycutt nodded before continuing. "And yes, it didn't take me long to realize what Krang was truly after... but by that point, I was in too deep. I attempted to cut all ties with him and leave… But he found me, and made me watch…"
Hisako cringed, clutching her head as the memory played out for her.
"He… he murdered your family," Kagome realized.
"Yes… He left me alive so I could live with my failures. And since then, I've dedicated my life to trying to help his victims. It's why I made my singularity machine, and why I try to help wherever I can. Krang rose to power and caused so much misery because I was a naïve fool. I helped develop his Technodrome, so many of his weapons, and never thought of what he would use it for until it was too late."
"Professor…" Leo let out.
Honeycutt looked away. Everyone got the impression that were he still flesh and blood, he would be crying. "What I'm trying to say is that life and love... they're fleeting things. You should pursue them when you can, because you never know what will happen, or how long you have with them." He turned back to them, looking right at Hisako. "Life is short, Miss Hamato. When you're done, you're done. Don't just sit there and waste your precious time. When you want to do something, do it right away. Do it when you can. It's the only way to live a life without regrets."
Hisako looked away. "Professor... I'm... I'm not cut out for a relationship."
"How would you know if you've never been in one? The Guardian boy cares about you deeply. I can tell. And regardless of what you think, Hisako, you deserve a chance to be happy. Everyone does. And one thing I've learned: some things are worth the pain."
Hisako sighed. "How do I know that my issues and whatnot won't just push Sam away?"
"My dear, that's essentially what you're doing right now, isn't it?" That stunned Hisako. "That young man is aware of your issues but cares about you regardless of them. I'm almost certain that he's prepared for them, and wants to be there to help you through them. Someone that caring and genuine in their affection... they're a rare breed, and you will regret it if you let him slip away."
Hisako fell silent, the Professor's words making her think.
Meanwhile, in a secluded corner of Dimension X, a red Utrom in a feminine exoframe arrived on a small moon outside of the Technodrome, still stranded in the black hole. A few moments passed before Ch'rell appeared, approaching her.
"You are either a fool or truly desperate to approach me so brazenly, Ma'riell," he remarked.
"We share a mutual enemy, Ch'rell," Ma'riell said. "The Triceratons are formidable, but if we combine our forces, we could eradicate them from the galaxy. They are not a problem that will simply go away, and you know it."
"And what do you expect me to say? Do you want me to extend a hand in friendship? To promise to work together, side by side? You and I both know that's a pipe dream. You made your choice and I made mine," Ch'rell scoffed. "Taking on the Triceratons is suicide, anyway. General Krang and myself invade planets specifically to escape from those Jurassic maniacs, not fight them."
"Brother, please-"
"We. Are not . Family. We haven't been for a long time, so don't try to use that title against me."
Ma'riell scowled. "By avoiding this fight, you bring dishonor to our race!"
"They dishonored us first when they turned their backs on our true masters."
"Ch'rell, I'm begging you-"
"I am finished with this conversation, sister . Consider this my last kindness to you: leave and do not show your face to me again if you value your soft-hearted life. Do not provoke me further; it is by my will alone that you survive this encounter."
Ma'riell looked close to tears but turned and left. Ch'rell watched her go, scoffed, and then returned to the Technodrome. When he arrived, he stopped short at the sight before him; Krang standing tall, being fitted into a new exoframe.
"General Krang?!"
"Ah, there you are," Krang greeted. "I was wondering where you went."
"My former sister approached us for an alliance against Zanramon, but that's not important. How did you-?"
"General Stavros arrived at TCRI to pick up his half-breed daughter and lieutenant. From there, it was just a matter of laying low until I could recalibrate the portal to send me here. Now tell me, how soon until we are free of this Grop-forsaken singularity?"
"We've… tried our best, sir."
Krang scowled. "Damn those Turtles. We need to reestablish our army. Especially now that the Triceratons are coming for Earth."
"You're not actually thinking of-"
"Not a chance. But with our plans on earth all but gone, we will need to establish a new base. Preferably somewhere those reptilian failures can't find us."
"Your plan, sir?"
"Those Turtles are intending to collect the Heart of Darkness fragments before the Triceratons do. I say we beat them to it... and do what we should have done all those millennia ago."
"You just said-"
"I'm not going to fight them. I'm going to erase them, and if we're fortunate, we can take the Turtles down with them." Krang smirked. "And I happen to know where the first fragment is."
A portal opened up in the heart of the Neutrino capital, allowing for Stavros, Tara, and Ximena to step through. The latter had a rebreather in her mouth, and she was looking around in awe.
"I've only ever seen this place in my dreams," she mused. "It's so much grander in person."
"Indeed," Tara agreed.
"Now then, we should see if your physiology will allow you to survive in this environment," Stavros said.
"Right," Ximena took a deep breath, then removed the straw from her mouth. When she tried to inhale without it, she was immediately choking and gagging, falling to her knees.
"Ximena!" Stavros rushed to try and get the straw back in her mouth, but she held up a hand, stopping him.
"I'm fine…" she wheezed, coughing slightly. "I'm fine. Air just… tastes like crap."
She took several slow, deep breaths, getting herself under control before shuddering. "Man, that was lousy."
"Yeah…" Tara rubbed the back of her neck. "The atmosphere in Dimension X is a mix of hydrogen and sulfur. You're basically breathing poison to Earthlings."
"Huh. Good to know," Ximena got to her feet. "Sorry about that."
"You have nothing to be sorry about," Tara assured.
"Come, let us not keep the King waiting," Stavros said. "We must rally our forces immediately, and I am eager to show you your other home, my daughter."
Ximena grinned. "Let's go, Dad."
-X-
Elsewhere, a portal opened up on a remote planet not far from Neutrino. From it emerged the Ulixes, the Hamato Clan disembarking alongside Honeycutt.
"Ah, Dimension X," Mikey remarked. "Where physics don't matter and everything wants to kill you."
"How bad are we talking?" Casey asked.
"Like New Jersey, but worse," Hisako replied.
"Just watch." Mikey cannonballed off the rock they were on, only to land right back where he started.
"Yeah…" April nodded. "I see why you're not a fan, Hisako."
"Yeah," Hisako rubbed her arm. "I'm just glad I was never sent here…" She took a deep breath, composing herself. "C'mon. The sooner we find the Utrom Council, the sooner we can get the hell outta here."
"Yes, of course," Honeycutt nodded. "Follow me."
They followed the robot to an open empty space, nothing there.
"Uh... okay?" Kagome said. "I don't see anything."
"Exactly the point, my dear," Honeycutt said. "Because we haven't been granted clearance yet. Someone will be along shortly."
They waited patiently before a female-figured Utrom exoframe in a white lab coat emerged.
"Xeinos," Honeycutt greeted. "Always a pleasure."
"Ah, Honeycutt," Xeinos greeted. "It's been some time. And these must be the turtles from the reports."
"That would be us," Leo replied.
"We need to speak with the rest of the council," Honeycutt requested.
"Very well then," Xeinos nodded. "Please come with me."
She waved a hand, a door materializing behind them.
"Cloaking field," Donnie mused. "Clever."
Xeinos led them inside, the group eventually coming to an open meeting room, several Utroms seated in exoframes that bore more than a passing resemblance to the Norman Krangenhoffer and Mrs. Campbell Krangdroids.
"Hamato Clan, allow me to present the sacred high council of the Utrom race," Xeinos said. "Queen, Rook, Pawn, and Knight."
Everyone was on edge.
"Why the chess names?" Mikey questioned.
"Our true names are rather difficult to pronounce," Queen explained. "We have found that when dealing with outside species, pseudonyms are preferable."
Leo stepped forward. "We need your help. We were able to retrieve a fragment of the Heart of Darkness, but we need the others. It's the only way to save our world."
The Council collectively gasped.
"You found one of the pieces?!" Queen exclaimed.
"No one should have such power!" Pawn exclaimed. We took pains to hide the pieces in the safest parts of the galaxy!"
"'Safest'?" Vee repeated. "Is that what you call the first piece corrupting the entire race of Aeons and turning Xaava-Dal into a hellhole?"
"What?!" Rook let out. "That's impossible. The Aeons are a peaceful people beyond worldly desires."
"Believe us, it's possible," Raph said. "
"If you don't believe us, look," April held up her fragment of the star, Hisako doing the same. Knight sighed.
"So... they neglected their Soul Star in favor of the duty we placed on them."
Leo nodded. "They did. And their world nearly crumbled."
"So even in pieces and deactivated, the Heart of Darkness continues to wreak havoc across the galaxy."
At the new voice, all eyes turned to see Ma'riell enter, taking the final seat.
"Ma'riell," Queen greeted. "I assume your mission was unsuccessful?"
"Unfortunately," Ma'riell sighed. "My brother remains stubborn and unyielding. He will not help us."
"I am far from surprised," Knight said.
Ma'riell turned to the group. "You seek the Heart of Darkness. But what do you intend to do with it once you have it?"
"Keep it out of the Triceraton Empire's hands," Honeycutt replied. "They are aware General Krang is on Earth, and seek the black hole generator to destroy him once and for all."
"We hope to find a way to destroy the device," Leo added. "To make sure it cannot fall into anyone's hands."
"Impossible," said Pawn. "The Heart of Darkness cannot be destroyed."
"I'm working on a way," Honeycutt chimed in. "But I need the fragments to study."
"What of the one you have now?" Rook questioned. "Is it not sufficient?"
"The more fragments I have, the more I can determine."
"This is not a simple decision," Queen pointed out. "You risk much bringing the pieces together."
"Have we not proven time and again that we can handle this?" Donnie asked. "We stopped Krang's invasion, and destroyed the Technodrome."
The council all exchanged looks, concerned and conflicted.
"They make a valid point," Rook remarked.
"Besides, if Mortu's report is to be believed, even if we deny them, they will still attempt to acquire the piece," Queen added.
"Yeah, we're all kinds of stubborn that way," Mikey replied.
The council all turned to each other in contemplation.
"Perhaps we can- " Whatever Ma'riell was about to say was cut off when a portal opened. All eyes turned to see Ch'rell emerge.
"Oh, how ironic fate can be," he chuckled. "The long-hidden base of the Utrom Council, revealed to us by none other than those miserable Turtles and Project Oracle."
Hisako's eyes widened in horror, even more so when Krang came out right behind him.
"It must be our lucky day," Krang mused.
"These guys?!" Raph exclaimed.
"Krang..." Hisako managed. "How… you're supposed to be locked up!"
Krang smirked. "Not anymore, Oracle. Stavros' mutt daughter and lieutenant returned to Neutrino... and I tagged along."
He scoffed at the glare the Hamato/Lee family gave him. "Oh, stop with the evil eye. I specifically turned myself over to Mortu in the first place to escape Earth before the Triceratons arrived, not rot in a cell to await my death"
"You should have stayed to rot," Raph spat.
"Hardly. Earth is doomed to the Triceratons. I have no further reason to bother with it."
"So you just turn tail and run instead of helping us fight against them?" Leo spat. "You're pathetic.
Krang perked, slowly turning to him. "What did you say, you little punk?"
"You heard me. The second you're not the biggest and toughest in the room, you decide to run and hide under a rock," Leo scoffed. "To think the great and powerful General Krang is such a slimy coward."
Krang growled in response. "How dare you-!"
"What? Call you out for the tiny little bug you are? Sorry if the truth hurts."
That set Krang off. "You just signed your death warrant with that, Leonardo! NOBODY calls General Krang a coward and lives!"
"You want Leo, you gotta go through me!" Raph declared.
"Ditto!" Donnie chimed in.
"You mess with one turtle, you mess with us all!" Mikey exclaimed.
Kagome drew her blades. "Bring it, you used chewing gum."
A massive fight ensued. Eventually, Ch'rell had Hisako pinned down, preparing to impale her when Ma'riell's voice cut in.
"Brother! Stop this! You've caused that child enough pain!"
A dead silence followed as they took that in, all eyes turning to Ma'riell.
"B…" Hisako managed, staring at Ma'riell in horror. "BROTHER?!"
"...Now that is dysfunctional." Casey let out.
"You're... You-" Hisako clutched her chest, struggling to breathe.
"If I've told you once, I've told you a thousand times, Ma'riell…" Ch'rell backhanded her, knocking her off her feet. " I AM NO BROTHER TO YOU! "
Hisako covered her ears, trying to shrink into herself as Ch'rell yanked Ma'riell out of her Utromdroid body. "General!" he shouted. "We have what we came for. My cowardly sibling will be the one to tell us where the Heart of Darkness is."
"Excellent. We will use it to finish what we started when we destroyed the Triceratons' world all those years ago…" He looked right at the Turtles, "and when we're done with them, you're next ."
That did it. As Krang and Ch'rell departed through a portal, Hisako got to her feet and took off running, barreling over Leo and dashing out of the compound as if the hounds of Hell were at her heels.
"Hisako!" Leo screamed.
"Sis! Wait!" Mikey cried.
-X-
Hisako took off running into the trees surrounding the compound, panting heavily. As she looked around, she saw Krang's image everywhere she looked, tree branches forming his sneering face and a pile of stones forming his image. She ended up tripping over a root and collapsed, curling up and struggling to breathe. Around her, everything was shaking and warping. Around that time, Midnight emerged from the trees and was greeted by the terrifying sight of Hisako sprawled out under the tree, clutching her chest in pain and hyperventilating with wide, manic eyes. Immediately, she ran over and, with a soft whine, rested her head on Hisako's belly. The effect was almost instantaneous; Hisako's hand slowly reached up, gently stroking the pup's head. Her eyes opened, her pulse and breathing slowing down. At that point, her siblings came running up, seeing her now pacified sight as she let out a relieved sigh.
"Thank you, Midnight..." she whispered.
Vee turned to Professor Honeycutt. "That's why Midnight goes wherever Hisako goes, Professor."
Honeycutt nodded. "Duly noted.
Leo kneeled next to Hisako. "You okay, sis?
"Not really..." Hisako admitted. "I mean... she was his sister… and… and the Heart of Darkness… if Krang…"
"Hey, from what happened back there, it's clear neither one wanted anything to do with the other," Donnie pointed out.
"Still..." Hisako pulled Midnight closer.
Mikey pulled her into a hug. "It's gonna be okay. We beat Krang and Ch'rell before, we can do it again."
"And they're not gonna get the Heart," Leo swore.
"Indeed not," They turned to see Rook and the rest of the council appear, keeping at a safe distance. "Krang and Ch'rell have attacked the Council, and taken one of our own. This means war ."
"Grand Council, forgive us for this," Leo requested.
"You are not to blame for this," Queen replied. "We were careless."
"Now might be a good time to tell us where the Heart of Darkness fragments are located just in case, you know, something happens." Honeycutt requested.
"Help us rescue Councillor Ma'riell and deal with Krang, and the coordinates are yours," Rook assured.
"So be it," Honeycutt nodded. "My friends?"
Leo nodded. "Deal."
"Hisako, are you gonna be okay?" Donnie asked.
Hisako slowly got up, wiping her eyes. "I will be. Besides, we need to get that piece."
"If Krang's back in the Technodrome and has his army, we're gonna need backup," April said. "Any ideas?" Kagome thought for a minute before snapping her fingers. "I got it! Krang mentioned he followed Ximena and Tara back through the portal. They must be on the Neutrino planet preparing."
"Then why are we just standing here?!" Casey demanded. "We need to go find them and tell them what's what!"
It wasn't long before the Ulixes arrived in Neutrino space. Honeycutt typed a few keys, the screen popping up to reveal the face of a male Neutrino soldier with sunglasses and red hair.
"Neutrino Command, this is Professor Zayton Honeycutt of the Ulixes, requesting clearance to dock."
" This is Commander Zak, you are clear to dock. "
Honeycutt brought the Ulixes down to a nearby docking platform, allowing it to land safely. Waiting outside for them was none other than General Stavros, alongside Ximena and Tara.
"Hey guys!" Ximena greeted.
"Sup!" Mikey waved.
"Sorry we couldn't meet again under better circumstances," Leo told them.
"But how did you guys-?" Vee began.
"Two Salamandrians approached King Zenter for aid against the Triceratons," Stavros explained. "Once I found out they were targeting Earth, that was all I needed to know."
"Salamandrians?" Kagome sighed. "Oh God, Mona…"
"Kagome…" Raph rubbed his forehead in annoyance. "Please, let's not start this again…"
Ximena raised an eyebrow. "Who's Mona?"
"One of the alien salamanders they mentioned," Raph clarified. "It's... complicated, Xi."
Ximena glanced at Kagome. "Uh-huh…"
"We'll explain later," Donnie cut in. "Right now, we need your help."
"It's not just the Triceratons we have to worry about now," Leo said. "We'll explain everything once we get to the king."
-X-
Later, the group waited while Leo, Honeycutt, Splinter, and Stavros spoke with the king and queen. They perked as a plate of small, bluish-purple worms was set out on the table before them.
"You all seemed stressed, so I asked the staff to set out some refreshments," Tara explained.
"Uh... what the hell are these?" Raph questioned.
"Squibbles. A local delicacy. Especially their juices." Tara picked one up, taking a swig of some green fluid from its backside. Everyone cringed.
"Yeah…" Donnie began, "It may be different for you, Tara, but people on Earth have this thing about drinking from the anus of another creature."
Ximena shrugged before taking a sip.
"...Not bad. Kinda tastes like lime Jell-O," That earned her strange looks. "What? These are the Squelchers I remember from my dreams."
"It's a Squibble," Tara corrected.
"Your point?"
Mikey picked one up, shrugged, and took a swig. "Mmm… not bad."
A moment passed before Hisako snatched one up, taking a swig like she was downing a shot of booze.
"Huh. It does taste like lime Jell-O."
-X-
Sometime later, they joined the others inside the throne room as Leo explained the details of what happened.
"So General Krang escaped his cell and followed me back when I came to pick up my daughter…" Stavros' fists clenched. "Damn it all."
"And he's taken a member of the Utrom Council as a hostage to learn the location of the pieces of the black hole generator," Honeycutt added.
"I should have been more vigilant…" Stavros sighed.
"This is not your fault, General," Splinter cut in. "You were thinking of your daughter."
"There's no point beating yourself up over this," Leo told him. "What matters is stopping Krang from getting his slimy hands on the Heart of Darkness."
"I could not agree more, Leonardo," Tara declared with a nod. "Our first step is discovering the current location of his Technodrome."
"Last I heard, it's stuck in a black hole."
"Not a lot of places for it to go," Raph remarked.
"If it hasn't been sucked into the hole by now, then it's likely stuck just above Balaraphon," Stavros mused, rubbing his chin and stroking his beard.
"Gesundheit," Mikey let out.
Stavros shook his head. "No, Balaraphon. A disaster zone. We've sent them aid and supplies in the past."
"One of the first planets to fall to Krang in his conquest for power," Tara chimed in. "It's now nothing more than a wasteland."
The Turtles exchanged looks.
"You thinkin' what I'm thinkin'?" Raph asked.
"Strand the Technodrome on the Dimension X equivalent of Tatooine?" Donnie suggested.
Raph grinned. "Bingo."
"And this time, we're making sure that thing never takes off again," Hisako swore.
"Rally the troops, Tara," Stavros ordered. "On this day, Krang's reign of terror ends."
Tara clicked her heels, saluting. "Yes, General!"
Meanwhile, in the interrogation room of the Technodrome, Ma'riell was strapped into a chair. Ch'rell paced around before her.
"So, it's come to this," she lamented.
"This is how it was always going to turn out," Ch'rell shot back.
Ma'riell sighed. "What happened to you, Ch'rell? How could you become so twisted?"
"General Krang and his father simply showed me the truth. There are billions of people in this world, and googols more out of it, and those teeming masses exist for the sole purpose of lifting the truly exceptional and powerful onto their shoulders. You and the rest of the Utrom chose the path of the pacifist, struggling to have everything you want, while the world tries to make you choose. People like us, gods among insects... we don't have to choose, Ma'riell — we take ."
"Gods…" she shook her head. "Just how far have you fallen that you think yourself some omnipotent being? Even if that were true, why would you choose to harm others? The strong have no right to oppress the weak."
"But don't we? Do you know how much history has been shaped by the Utroms? Earth and all its hideous people owe everything they have and are to myself and Krang. We forged the Earthlings and their civilizations, created their world, just as their false gods did. So what does that make us?"
"It makes us responsible for them. It is our job to nurture them, to lead them on the right path."
"No, sister. It means they belong to us. Those vermin, those microbes? They're ours to do with as we please."
"No!" Ma'riell screamed. "I won't allow it! I won't allow you to go down this path!"
Ch'rell shook his head in disdain. "You're just like Mortu and the rest of his bleeding hearts at TCRI. Strong enough to have it all... too weak to take it."
"Or maybe you're the weak one. Lacking the will to stand for someone besides yourself."
Ch'rell scowled. "Enough of this, Ma'riell. It's time for what I retrieved you for. Tell me where you hid the Heart of Darkness fragments... or I have ways of making you talk."
Ma'riell immediately shut her mouth, refusing to say any more. Ch'rell smirked evilly.
"I was hoping you'd go this route."
He pressed a button, electrical probes emerging from the walls...
Meanwhile, back on Neutrino, Mona and Sal Commander are with the Neutrino soldiers suiting up.
"I had heard tales of the Neutrino Armies," Sal noted. "They did not do them justice."
"Your compliments are much appreciated," Commander Dask responded with a slight bow. "Especially from one of the famous warriors of Salamandaria."
"We appreciate you allowing us to fight alongside you," Mona said. "I give you my word that we will do our best to aid you."
"Thankfully, you will not be alone," Stavros' voice chimed in.
Dask immediately saluted as the Salamandarians turned.
"General Stavros," Sal greeted. "And... oh, the Turtles."
"It is a pleasure to see you all again," Mona said.
"I'm sure…" Kagome replied, keeping her face and tone neutral.
"Whoa!" Ximena exclaimed. "Giant salamanders! Are you mutants too?"
"Aliens, actually," Leo clarified. "Salamandrians. We ran into them not too long ago."
"Sweet."
"Commander G'Throkka, this is my daughter," Stavros introduced.
Dask turned to Kagome. "Do you... have issues with Y'Gythgba?"
"Issues? Why would I have issues?" Kagome's face turned beet-red, her eyes twitching almost violently, her voice strained, and a vein popping in her forehead. "It certainly isn't because my boyfriend admitted he's attracted to her, or because she kissed him on the cheek last time we met."
"Yeah…" Mikey piped up. "Maybe if you said it without looking like you were constipated, we'd buy it."
"Uh-huh…" Dask turned to Hisako, who was holding Midnight, shaking and sweaty. "And is your sister's current disposition for a similar reason?"
"You... might wanna sit down," Leo turned to Kagome. "And Kagome, cool it before you pop a blood vessel."
-X-
They all sat down as Leo explained what happened with the council and Krang's declaration of going after the Heart of Darkness. When they finish, both Mona and Sal let out clicking noises that sound very aggressive
"So that monster escaped…" Sal hissed.
"And he's after the Heart of Darkness himself," Leo added.
"I understand why the green Terran is upset now," Mona mused, looking at Hisako sympathetically.
"He and Ch'rell also kidnapped a member of the Utrom Council to interrogate her on the location of the Heart." Leo continued.
"Or giving her the guest treatment as she sells them out to her brother…" Hisako spat in disdain.
Sal perked. "What was that?"
"The councilwoman they grabbed is Ch'rell's sister."
The two salamanders clicked angrily again.
"Is it really fair to judge her for what her brother did?" Ximena questioned.
Hisako choked briefly, then turned away. The Salamandarians were not so easily placated.
"Perhaps not," Sal conceded. "But it is suspicious."
"And it could explain why we were turned away," Mona added.
"Ximena's right," Leo cut in. "We have every right to be angry at Ch'rell, even hate him. But Ma'riell isn't him and shouldn't be condemned just for being related to him. If the Council trusts her, she at least deserves the benefit of the doubt."
The three begrudgingly nodded.
"So, am I to assume you terrapins have a plan?" Sal asked.
Leo nodded. "According to the General, the Technodrome is most likely in orbit around the planet Balaraphon. Where we're gonna ground it permanently."
"How?" Ximena questioned.
"We're gonna do exactly what we did during the invasion." Donnie held out a canister of retro-mutagen. "We're gonna kill its power source and send it plummeting."
Casey then dropped a bag of his plasma pucks. "Then ignite the whole mess for good measure."
"We just need to get on board, and the seven of us will handle the rest," Leo concluded.
"That should not be a problem," Sal remarked.
"It's now or never, guys," Vee said.
Ximena threw a fist into the air. "Then let's do this!"
Back on the Technodrome, Ma'riell panted, cringing in pain as Ch'rell ended another electroshock session. "You know how to make this stop, Ma'riell. Give me the coordinates."
Ma'riell glared at him. "Never…"
Ch'rell scowled, letting out an angry roar. He knocked two Krangdroids aside before yanking Ma'riell up by the tentacles. "You WILL tell me! Where. Can we find… The Heart of Darkness?!"
"Would you... so easily... betray your leaders?"
Ch'rell popped a blade out, about to bring it down on her when red lights began flashing. He let out an enraged scream before stabbing the wall.
"What is it this time?!"
"Sir!" A Krangdroid came running in. "It's the Neutrinos! They're attacking!"
Ch'rell growled before dropping Ma'riell back in her seat. "You're lucky those pointy-eared freaks decided to come knocking, sister."
Ma'riell said nothing as he stormed out.
-X-
Outside, a Neutrino fleet came flying in. The Hamato/Lee family was with Dask in his personal craft, the Resistance One. Donnie stole a glance at the different Neutrino Starcruisers
"Anyone else find it odd that Neutrino Starcruisers look like 1950s hot rods?" he questioned. "No? Just me?"
Mikey shrugged. "Can't beat the classics"
"Here goes nothin'!" Dask declared.
As soon as the Resistance One was close enough, Ximena threw her arms in the air. "GERONIMOOOOOOO!"
One by one, they jumped out, power-diving for the Technodrome's exhaust port
"Cowabunga!" Mikey cheered.
"For the Cosmos!" Donnie declared.
Raph rolled his eyes, muttering a "Gimme a break…" under his breath before diving himself.
They made it into the exhaust port mere moments before it closed. As they got their bearings, Leo took charge.
"Okay, first things first. We save Councillor Ma'riell, then we blow the engines."
"I'll take Raph and Casey," Donnie said.
"We'll take Ma'riell," Kagome decided.
"Sal Commander, General Stavros, can you keep their attention off us?" Leo asked.
Stavros nodded. "Consider it done, Leonardo.
"Good luck guys!" Ximena called as they split up.
As they went, Leo turned to Hisako. "You know this ship better than anyone. Do you know where they might be keeping Ma'riell?"
Hisako's gaze hardened. "His 'personal chambers'."
She began heading down the hall.
"I don't like the sound of that…" Mikey admitted as they followed her.
-X-
When they arrived, Hisako stood outside the door, hands shaking as she built up the will to enter.
"In here…"
Leo stabbed the lock. As soon as the door opened, they froze up at what was within.
"Holy…" Mikey managed.
"There's nothing holy here, Mike…" Kagome remarked.
Dotted all over the room were various devices and instruments of torture from all over the galaxy, from medieval to modern to alien, many of them bearing old bloodstains of multiple colors.
"What is this stuff…" April managed.
"Evil…" Splinter replied.
They slowly entered, looking over each one
"A rack... an iron maiden…" Leo shook his head. "I knew Ch'rell was sick, but this…"
"Is that a brazen bull?!" Vee shrieked.
"This is gonna haunt my nightmares for weeks…" Kagome managed.
"The burns on Hisako's shoulders and knees…" Leo slowly glanced around. "The lightning scars on her back… The lacerations on her arms…"
"C'mon…" April rubbed her arms. "The sooner we find Ma'riell and get outta here, the better."
"I FOUND HER!" Mikey's voice came.
They hurried forward, finding Ma'riell seated in the electric chair, unmoving.
"Are we too late?" Leo questioned.
His answer came in the form of Ma'riell suddenly springing awake, coughing violently.
"Looks like she's still alive!" Mikey declared happily.
"Tur...tles?" the weak Utrom let out.
"Don't talk," Kagome insisted, pulling a kunai knife from her belt and cutting her free. "Just save your strength. We're gonna get you outta here."
Carefully, she scooped up Ma'riell, cradling her in her arms before turning to the exit. However, that's when the lights began to flicker. Instincts kicked in and everyone froze.
"Uh-oh…"
Hisako was on the ground, hugging her legs and shaking violently. As if in response to her distress, the Aeon crystal around her neck started to glow brightly. She herself was glowing as well and her crystal was beginning to hover in the air.
"Um…" Mikey swallowed hard. "I don't think Casey's gonna need his pucks."
The Technodrome trembled as Hisako breathed heavily, muttering to herself as she clutched her head. One of the lights exploded from the strain and the sound made her snap. She screamed, the sound ripping through the ship. Several more lights exploded, machines sparking and panels in the wall warping. Midnight barked before running in, jumping on top of Hisako and practically knocking her to the ground. Hisako gasped, grabbing the dog and holding her close.
"Make... make it stop…"
"What do we do?!" Mikey cried. "This is bad!"
As the siblings began to panic, Splinter wordlessly stepped in, picking Hisako up off the ground. He held her close, petting her head as he rocked her. Slowly, everything began to calm down. The Aeon crystal went inert as Hisako sighed, wiping her eyes.
"I have you, my daughter," he said as he held her, showing no sign of putting her down.
Kagome made her way over to Hisako, Ma'riell still in her arms. As they got close, the Utrom did her best to kowtow before Hisako. "Hamato Hisako... words cannot express how sorry I am that my brother caused you such pain."
Hisako looked over her father's shoulder, eyes falling on the trembling alien. Slowly, her face softened
"You're not him…" she said softly.
Just then, everything shook hard.
"And that's our cue to run!" Leo exclaimed.
-X-
They ran down intersecting hallways, meeting up with Donnie's group as they went.
"Hisako went nuclear?" Raph questioned, seeing his sister being carried on Splinter's back.
"Yeah, how'd it go on your end?" Leo asked.
"Don got the retro-mutagen installed, but before we had the chance to blow it, things started crumbling. Either way, this thing's going down."
"Meaning we need to get out of here!" Casey shouted.
They rounded a corner... and were cut off by a laser blast as Krang stomped forward, scowling with rage.
"I should have known you're the ones who rallied the Neutrinos for this little assault." he spat.
"Aww, are we that predictable, Krangy?" Mikey ribbed.
Krang snarled in rage.
"Enough of this! It was I who made you who you are today, you brats! You and Project Oracle! Therefore, you will respect me, Turtles! You WILL respect your creator! Everything you are, everything you have, you owe to ME! "
The Hamato/Lee family exchanged deadpan looks before Raph scoffed.
"Does the phrase 'go suck a lemon' hold any meaning for ya?"
Krang scowled before turning to Splinter.
"And you, Hamato Yoshi! If you hadn't blundered your way into my troops sixteen years ago, you and your precious family would have never mutated! You'd still be a depressed, hopeless shell utterly dependent on Kasumi Lee's charity, assuming you wouldn't be dead in a ditch or from seppuku! You owe me for that day as well!"
Splinter looked him right in the eye. "I owe you nothing ."
Hisako patted Splinter's arm, asking to be put down. He obliged and she turned her gaze on the Utrom. Her eyes were cold and her voice was dripping with venom.
"You made us?" She scoffed. "Don't make me laugh. You may have dropped the ooze, but we're the ones who rose up. We're the ones who chose this path. So take your superiority and holier-than-thou attitudes, and shove it!"
"WELL SAID!"
Stavros' voice boomed through the hall as he and Sal Commander appeared, weapons at the ready. Ximena, Tara, and Mona were also in attendance, all of them looking ready to kill.
"Go," Tara insisted. "We will hold them off!"
"What about you?!" Kagome shrieked.
"Don't worry about us! JUST GO!"
"HURRY!" Ximena shouted, brandishing her sword as her eyes began to glow.
Leo nodded before everyone took off, diving through the hatch. Seeing this, Krang saw red.
"KILL THEM ALL!"
The Krangdroids powered up their blasters, and Ch'rell grinned maliciously.
"I will enjoy this."
-X-
Laser fire filled the area as the Hamato group all made their escape. The Technodrome continued to fall and shake, the lights dimming as the retro-mutagen coursed through the engines. They jumped out, just in time to be intercepted by Dask's hot rod. They watched as the Technodrome powered down completely, plummeting down to the surface of Balaraphon.
"Where's the General?" Dask questioned.
They were spared the effort of an answer when a window broke on the Technodrome. Stavros jumped out with Ximena in his arms, followed by Sal Commander, and Tara. As they fell, the Ulixes came flying in, catching and drawing them in with a tractor beam.
"Did somebody call for a taxi?" Honeycutt quipped.
"Excellent catch, Professor," Stavros replied.
Below them, there was a mighty crash as the Technodrome finally plummeted to its doom. They looked down at the planet in disdain, Raph giving a mocking salute.
"That's the end of Krang," Leo declared.
"Or at the very least, he is less of a threat," Splinter mused.
On Neutrino, the populace cheered as the group returned. Princess Trib was the first to approach them.
"All of Dimension X owes you a debt of gratitude, Hamato Clan," she told them. "General Krang has finally been brought to justice."
"I wouldn't count him out of the game completely, but he's been crippled," Donnie clarified. "The Technodrome is toast. He won't be getting off of Balaraphon any time soon."
Ma'riell looked up at them. "I have seen unparalleled bravery today from all of you."
"Does that mean…?" Leo began.
"Indeed it does," Ma'riell smiled. "The fragment of the Heart of Darkness you seek is right here in Smada City."
"Yes, it's one of our greatest treasures," Trib turned to Dask. "Commander Dask, have it brought up immediately."
As Dask went to do so, Ma'riell went on. "You will find the third piece of the Black Hole Generator in the Cosmic Ocean of Varuna. The final fragment is on the lost world of Magdomar at the very edge of the known cosmos."
"A cosmic ocean…" Donnie had stars in his eyes.
"Lost world, huh?" Vee mused. "Sounds interesting."
"So... what now?" Ximena asked.
"With Krang dealt with, I believe we should make our way back to Earth and continue preparing the second front," Tara decided.
"Awww…" Ximena slumped. "But we just got here…"
"When there's no crisis, we'll come back," Tara promised. "And I'll give you the full tour."
Ximena smiled. "I'll hold you to that, Tara."
She turned and hugged Stavros around the middle. He was frozen for a bit, then returned the hug.
"Can't wait to see you again, Dad," she said.
Stavros returned the hug. Leo stepped forward as they parted.
"Do us a favor, you two," he requested. "Let Kasumi know we're doing okay, and that we're halfway there. We'll be home as soon as we can."
Tara saluted. "We shall endeavor to complete the mission you have-"
"Tara, chill," Ximena smiled. "We'll let her know."
"Thank you."
As they headed for the portal room, Dask emerged with the fragment, passing it to Honeycutt.
"You have my word," Honeycutt swore. "This weapon will finally be destroyed once and for all."
Dask nodded. "We'll hold you to that, Professor. Even with Krang crippled, for the time being, nature abhors a vacuum."
"Still, I'd kill to see the look on his face right now," Mikey mused.
On the surface of the planet Balaraphon, Krang fumed on the hill where the ruined Technodrome had crashed, overlooking a barren desert wasteland as Ch'rell emerged, nursing a severed tentacle.
"I'm afraid the engines are completely blown out, General. The Technodrome is finished."
That did it. Krang pulsed with rage, snarling like a beast. Ch'rell backed up as Krang threw his head back, screaming in rage and despair. His outraged howls echoed across the desolate planet for miles as he cursed the Hamato Clan and his fate.
Author's Note:
Well, Krang is stranded for now, and the threat he poses is finished for the time being. Now to focus on the Triceratons.
Voice cast for this chapter:
* Xeinos - Phil Parsons (Kenny Ackerman in Attack on Titan, Renji Yomo in Tokyo Ghoul, Leonard Burns in Fire Force, Buccaneer in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, Nappa in Dragon Ball Z, Jesus Burgess in One Piece)
* Ma'riell - Julie Andrews (the original Mary Poppins, Maria von Trapp in The Sound of Music, Queen Lillian in Shrek, Marlena in Despicable Me, Clarisse Renaldi in The Princess Diaries)
* Zak - Matt Hill (Ed in Ed, Edd n Eddy, Kevin Keene/Captain N in Captain N: The Game Master, Kira Yamato in Gundam Seed and Gundam Seed Destiny, Raphael in Ninja Turtles: The Next Mutation, Ryo Sanada in Ronin Warriors, Carlos in Transformers: Armada, Ironhide in Transformers: Energon, Artha Penn and Dragon Booster in Dragon Booster, Bankotsu in Inuyasha)
Please R&R. Until next time!