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Waiting For You	By : MysticMewtwo Category: Comics > Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Views: 7074 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, nor any of the characters from it. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
- 8
- 9
- 10
Back to the Sewers
Chapter Eleven

After he finished showering and redressed, sans weapons, Leo returned downstairs to find Donatello. There were a couple of places he knew in the lair to search for his genius younger brother. If he wasn’t at one location, it would be guaranteed that he was in the other.

Fortunately, Leonardo found him in the first place he went to look; his workshop. It was an old rail boxcar that was modified to house some of his many projects and served as a work space. However, such space was quite rare. While Don was neat and organized for the most part, his work was spread out everywhere within the vicinity. Blueprints, beakers, machine parts, and numerous other gadgets and gizmos Leo had no idea were. His bedroom was much the same.

Donny was busy repairing the DVD player that Mikey had broken last night. He’d jammed the disc tray but good and now it wouldn’t close. After a moment, Leo rapped softly on the aluminum siding of the railcar to get his attention.

Donatello started at the sound, and then scowled a bit. He was annoyed with the interruption, thinking his younger brother had come to bug him again. However, when he turned to look anyway, irritation dissolved into surprise as he discovered it was not Michelangelo, but instead Leonardo.

“Oh, hey, Leo,” he said, now with a smile, “How long have you been back home?”

“About three hours,” Leo replied, stepping up onto the platform.

“I guess I forgot about the time again,” Don answered, smiling a bit sheepishly.

Leo smiled as well. His brother usually lost all sense of time and surroundings when he worked. Sometimes he or the others would have to remind him of meal times, or he would forget to eat even.

“Why don’t you take a break?” he suggested, “I have something anyway I wanted to talk to you about.”

Immediately, Don seemed to straighten more in his chair, and his face bore a serious frown. He was worried something might have happened.

“Is anything wrong?” he asked, concerned, “Did something happen at April’s?”

Leo shook his head.

“No, everything’s fine,” he assured.

“Well, there was something that did happen,” he continued, a little hesitantly, “It made April mad at Alisa for it; she’d climbed to the roof. It all turned out okay, but the incident has left April questioning her capability now to care for her.”

Don stared at his brother with a look of amazement. By his studies, she shouldn’t have been able to get out of bed. At least, not without assistance.

“Wow…” he breathed, “You mean, Alisa is actually walking and moving around?”

“And dressed herself, made her bed, and cooked breakfast too,” Leo added, matter-of-factly.

Don nearly fell out of his chair at the information. That was scientifically and logically impossible. No human should be able to do what this young woman was in such a condition.

“Unbelievable,” was all he could utter.

“Yes, but she doesn’t need to be doing all those things,” Leo disputed, “She pushes herself too hard, and she’s just very stubborn and resolute. She doesn’t like to be coddled.”

Don tried hard not to smile at those last words. He had the urge to say “kind of like you?” to his big brother, but he decided not to. Leo was very perceptive, and probably already knew as much.

“She sounds incredible,” he said, instead, “I’ve just got meet to her.”

“That’s why I wanted to talk to you,” Leo replied, “I have a proposal to offer to you, but there are a couple of conditions you must agree to if you accept. I’m going back to April’s tonight, and I was wondering if you would like to come with me.”

“What are the conditions?” Don asked, cautiously.

He knew if his brother was placing restrictions on him for this visit, Alisa still must not be doing well; despite all she’d had done. He wondered if it was a good idea to go afterall, but he really did want to meet the young lady that had caused such a stir in Leo and the rest of the family. If he didn’t, then the trip wouldn’t be a waste at any rate. He’d been meaning to get together with April and compare notes on the new computer program they were working on.

Leo cleared his throat a little nervously after a moment.

“Well, I understand that you’re fascinated because she’s defied the laws of science to you,” he began, “But I need you to not think of her in that way. You tend to, uh, get a little excited sometimes, and what she really needs is peace and quiet right now. So try to keep that to a bare minimum.”

“Alright, fair enough,” Don conceded, “What else?”

“The other thing is really important; even more so than the first,” Leo continued, “She has… I don’t know… a special ability of some sort. It’s like she can see right through you and read your very essence.”

He felt a chill run up his spine then at the memory of her steady, unwavering emerald gaze boring into his own sapphire eyes. He could remember feeling her heart search his, and how easily she was able to touch it. Past all of the barriers he’d built around it, but it was only briefly as his defenses buffeted her out again.

“So, whatever you do,” he added, “Be very careful how you react to this should she do it for you. I’ve already made that mistake, and it hurt her. I only wish not to see her hurt again.”

Donatello raised an eye-ridge and couldn’t help staring with bewilderment at his brother. Why was Leo suddenly saying the young woman was some kind of sorceress now? Surely there was a logical explanation, and what he thought happened was really probably something quite rooted in reality; not “magic”.

“Uh, oh… kay,” he replied, slowly.

Leo sighed. He didn’t believe him, but it was not like he could blame him. It was pretty farfetched. He’d wondered himself if it wasn’t just a byproduct of frayed nerves, but he was so sure what he’d felt hadn’t been the start of a breakdown.

“I know it sounds crazy,” he admitted, “But just trust me on it.”

“Okay, Leo,” Don agreed, “I accept the terms, but you’re sure everything’s all right? Are you feeling okay?”

Leo resisted the urge to roll his eyes. He was getting fed up with being asked that question. He tried to smile, but it didn’t exactly come out the way. Instead, his lips were meshed together in a tight grimace.

“Yes, I’m fine,” he assured.

Donny decided to let it go. Actually, he didn’t need an affirmation from his brother to tell he was doing better this morning. He seemed to be in generally good spirits, and Don was glad of that. He deserved some peace of mind after the last two hectic days.

“What time are we going?” he asked.

“By 10,” Leo answered, “April doesn’t want us staying too late. Alisa needs all the rest she can get.”

“All right,” Don acknowledged, “And, oh, you don’t mind if we take the Battle Shell, do you? The weather report this morning said there’d be rain by then, and I don’t want my notes to get wet.”

“Sure, it’s okay,” Leonardo complied.

He was glad for the suggestion. He really didn’t like trekking on foot in the rain. The rooftops became slick, and there was a greater risk for falling. One slippery misstep and it was street pizza. Raph, however, loved it, but then again he thrived off dangerous conditions.

“Great,” Don smiled.

He turned to face his work table then, and began tinkering with the DVD player again. Leo took that as a cue to leave, and quietly made his way off the platform. However, he paused, and looked back momentarily towards his brother.

“Oh, it’s my turn to cook tonight,” he informed, “I don’t have any ideas yet though. Is there something special you have in mind?”

“No,” Donny replied, without glancing up from his work, “It doesn’t matter what you make, but if you need help with ideas, Mikey has a few cookbooks you could borrow.”

“I’ll do that,” Leo said, “Thanks.”

He stepped down from the platform finally and went in search of his little brother. Mikey happily lent him the books, and Leo took them to his room where he spent the rest of the morning reading. When lunch time rolled around, he put the books aside, and went downstairs to fix a sandwich. By then, he knew exactly what to do for dinner, and once he’d eaten, he set to work at the preparations.

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“What news do you bring me?”

The figure sitting behind the low Japanese table was mostly consumed by the shadows, but the flame from a single candle highlighted its features in a demonic light. A pale face with high cheekbones, dark jade almond-shaped eyes, chin-length black hair, and ruby red lips curled tight in an almost constant sneer shined like a beacon in the darkness. The Konuichi glared at the lone Foot ninja that lay bowed before her as she awaited his answer. She knew before he even spoke that he had failed in his mission.

“We tracked her to the hospital from the news report, but she was no longer there. Now we don’t know where she is.”

“So you’ve lost her again, you fool.”

The young ninja swallowed nervously. He was a dead man. Karai tolerated failure a little better than her father had, but like the Shredder, she was ruthless and cruel. He’d messed up once before, and she’d bestowed upon him a second chance because she highly regarded him, but he had blown that now too.

“Y-yes, Mistress.”

He braced himself for the inevitable blow that would end his life. He hoped it was swift and mostly painless. He felt something whiz dangerously close past his ear, and then heard a metallic thunk as the object hit the floor. After a moment, he realized he was still alive, and turned to look behind him where it landed. A shuriken was embedded in the hard wood.

Bewildered, but extremely relieved, he returned his gaze to his mistress. Karai smiled somewhat sadistically at him. She enjoyed tormenting her subjects. It was much more fun than simply killing or maiming them for their insolence. Eventually, when she grew tired of it, they were disposed of.

“I have spared your pathetic life because you are of use to me,” she explained, “I still need you despite your blundering. You are best suited to the job of finding her. She is invaluable to me; to the very future of this clan.”

“She knows not the extent of the powers she possesses,” she continued, “But soon she will recognize her true path. It will be I who will unlock her potential, and I will use her to unleash the destruction of Leonardo and those accursed turtles.”

She smiled deviously to herself. Soon she would avenge her father. The child Mystic would succeed where the others have failed and rid these thorns that had been in their sides for far too long.

“Hai, Mistress,” the ninja replied.

“Go, now,” Karai ordered, “Search the city. She may have eluded us for all this time, but now she is injured and weak, helpless and unprotected, and thus vulnerable to be captured. Wherever she has gone, it cannot be far.”

“At once, Mistress,” he obeyed.

The ninja rose to his feet then and hurried to leave to carry out the order. However, he paused when Karai called his name.

“David,” she said, “Do not fail me again, or you will suffer the same fate as your family had; by the hands of your own flesh and blood.”

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Carefully, Leo filled the last fried rolled pastry shell with chocolate cream, sprinkled powdered sugar over the top, and applied a cherry on each end. With that, he was finally finished. He gave a sigh then and took a step back to admire his handiwork on the plate before him on the kitchen counter. He felt pleased with what he saw and was actually quite proud of himself.

It’d been a lot harder than he thought to make the Italian dessert. He didn’t have ricotta cheese to make more traditional cannolis, but he did have the ingredients for a simple chocolate cream filling with a similar consistency instead and he’d made it work. There were nine of the pastries on the plate, but he’d made eleven. The remaining two currently sat in the refrigerator gingerly wrapped in tinfoil. He’d made an extra for April and sacrificed one from his share for Alisa to take tonight. He thought they might like them, and perhaps the gesture would also cheer Alisa a bit.

He sniffed the air then as a delicious scent wafted around him and filled the kitchen. He glanced to the oven, checking the time left on the rest of the dinner. He had five minutes before the chicken cacciatore was done. He smiled to himself; perfect timing.

As he turned to grab the plate of cannolis and place them in the refrigerator until after dinner, Michelangelo waltzed into the kitchen following the wonderful smell. When he saw the dessert on the counter, his brown eyes grew big.

“Hey, what are those?” he asked, attempting to reach for one.

Suddenly, he yelped, and drew back his hand as a sting spread across his knuckles. Leo held a wooden spoon in his own hand, wearing a stern expression on his face.

“These are not until dessert, Mikey,” he scolded.

“Well, geez, you didn’t have to hit me,” the younger turtle whined, rubbing his hand.

Leo laid the spoon down on the counter again. He knew he’d only given his brother a slight smack, but he tended to play up on these kinds of things to make it worse than it actually was.

“I’m sorry,” he apologized, nevertheless.

“So what are they anyway?” Mikey inquired, forgetting his hand as he was distracted by the pastries again.

“They’re cannolis,” Leo replied, as he put the pastries in the refrigerator.

“Cannon ball… whaa?” Mikey stumbled.

Leo chuckled softly.

“Cannolis, Mike,” he repeated, “It’s Italian, and the chicken cacciatore in the oven, that’s Italian too.”

“Wow,” Mikey awed, “That’s hard. What made you decide to do it?”

“I wanted to try something new,” Leo answered, “And we’ve never had real homemade Italian cuisine before, so I thought it was a perfect opportunity.”

“Well, it sure smells good,” Michelangelo praised, breathing in the air deeply.

“Yeah,” Leo agreed, “But I’m hoping it tastes as good.”

The timer beeped off then, and he went to extract the casserole from the oven. As he set the hot dish on the table over a pot holder, he turned his head towards his younger sibling.

“Would you do me a favor, Mike, and please call everyone to dinner,” he said.

Mikey did as he was requested and went to gather the rest of his brothers and father. Ten minutes later, the entire Hamato family was seated at the table. There was an outpouring of compliments and praise to Leonardo as they dug in to the cacciatore. The blue masked turtle felt somewhat embarrassed to be in the spotlight. He wasn’t used to being the center of attention. Even Raph had put in a good word.

The temperamental turtle was short with him, but at least he seemed to be in a better mood than earlier and civilized; to a point. Leo had a feeling though his brother was only acting this way because Master Splinter was present. The side-swiping glare he received when there was presumably no one watching confirmed his suspicions. He wasn’t worried, however. He didn’t need Raphael’s approval on Alisa, but he couldn’t pretend that it didn’t hurt.

After dinner, the cannolis were served, and again, Leo reaped the rewards of appreciation. Splinter prepared a cup of tea to have with his dessert, and then excused himself to retire to his chambers. Soon after, the dirty dishes were collected, and taken to the sink to be washed. Mike kindly volunteered for dish duty since his big brother had done all the cooking for them. He managed to somehow sucker Raph into the chore as well, which led to much grumbling from the red-masked turtle.

Mikey stuck his tongue out at him. Raph growled and started to lunge at him, but was blinded moments later by soap suds. It only succeeded to infuriate him further as he cried out and furiously rubbed his eyes with the dry dish towel to remove the stinging soap.

Donatello gave an exasperated sigh as he watched the spectacle. He then looked to Leo, who only shook his head in a similar manner. He hoped those two would stop playing soon and actually get to work, or they wouldn’t have clean dishes tonight.

A moment later, Don walked out of the kitchen and to his workshop to finish up the notes he wanted to take with him to April’s. Leonardo left as well, but went upstairs instead to his room to meditate for the couple of hours before they headed to April’s. He needed to relax a bit and try to push the thoughts out of his mind for a while. He was close to being overrun by them again.

Leo knelt on the cushion in front of the table. He picked up a match lying nearby and struck it against the side. He placed the now flaming stick in the burner and ignited the incense. Wispy curls of smoke began to rise and drift above him. He closed his eyes and breathed deeply, the scent of the jasmine filling his nostrils. As usual, it instantly brought a wave of calm and rejuvenation over him. He let his mind slip freely into the psychic realm.

He remained fully aware of his surroundings, however, and at exactly 9:30, he was opening his eyes and preparing for departure. He rose to his feet and stretched his muscles to relieve the bit of stiffness built up from sitting in one position too long. He extinguished the incense, and then walked to the front of room to retrieve his weapons from where they laid in the corner near his bed. He slid the harness over his head and adjusted it to the appropriate positions; at his shoulder and back. A few moments later, he headed for the door and out to the stairs.

He was already ready to go, but knew that Donatello would probably not be, so he would give him fifteen more minutes. Leo sought him out at his workshop to warn him, and sure enough, found he’d been right. Don promised he’d be finished in that time.

“I just need to copy this last page of notes and I’ll be done,” he told the older turtle.

“Alright,” Leo obliged, “I’ll be waiting in the living room.”

He sauntered over to the living area, and sat down on the couch. He noticed Michelangelo was here as well, but instead on the floor in front of the televisions. A game show was playing on the screens, and Leo recognized it as Wheel of Fortune. Currently, a contestant was trying to name letters to solve the puzzle.

“H! H!” Mikey exclaimed to the TV, “You need an H!”

Leo wanted to remind his little brother that they couldn’t hear him, but he knew Mike was just excited as he was in the spirit of the game. He loved watching game shows. It was a shame he couldn’t actually play any like the people on TV. He was really good at some of them.

The blue masked turtle sighed to himself. It was every now and then the reality of who they were would slap them in the face. It generally didn’t bother them so much, all except maybe Raph, but that didn’t mean it didn’t make things hard. It was rare they’d find humans accepting of them; April, Casey, and now Alisa. That’s one reason why she was so special, because she’d seen him in a light few do; she didn’t fear him.

When the show took a break for commercials, Mikey realized then he had company. He gave a wave to the older turtle.

“Hey, bro,” he greeted, “Are you getting ready to go?”

Leo nodded his head.

“Yes,” he confirmed, “But I have to wait on Donny for a bit to finish his notes.”

“Not anymore!” a voice suddenly interrupted, calling from the railcar, “I’m coming!”

The brainy terrapin hurried over, clutching a folder full of papers.

“I’m done,” he declared, “Let’s go.”

Leo smiled, and rose to his feet once again.

“Okay,” he replied, “Let me just grab something from the fridge and we’ll be set.”

He walked to the kitchen and a moment later, returned with the foil-wrapped package containing the cannolis. He received curious looks from his brothers, but neither posed any questions. Besides, it was obvious to them it must be something he was taking to give Alisa.

“I’m ready,” he announced, “We can leave now.”

He turned then to head to the elevator, and Don followed close behind on his heels. When the two arrived inside the warehouse, the sound of heavy rain drumming on the metal roof greeted them. It created a dull roar that could be heard throughout the building. A rumble of thunder briefly drowned it out.

“Ugh, nasty night,” Don commented, as they walked to the Battle Shell, “I can’t believe Raph went out on a drive in this.”

“He went out?” Leo asked, as he climbed into the vehicle’s passenger seat.

“Yeah,” Don replied, joining him at the driver’s side, “About an hour ago.”

Leo grew quiet and listened to the rain and thunder, still audible inside the car. After a moment, he spoke again.

“He likes this weather,” he said, his voice so low that Don almost couldn’t hear him, “He says it doesn’t bother him, but one day he’s going to come home and have caught pneumonia. Then what? He doesn’t listen to me.”

Somehow, Donatello had a feeling this was about more than Raph getting sick. There was always contention between the two, but no more than usual. However, the matter they were fighting over now was very sensitive. He knew that Raph had developed a great dislike for Alisa, and it upset Leo because he had no grounds on which to stake it on.

“Raph is going to do what he wants, Leo,” he answered, quietly, as he started the car, “You’re not ever going to get him to change unless he wants to. You just have to accept that fact.”

Leo didn’t reply, and instead turned his head to stare blankly out the window. He heard his brother sigh, and then the car began to move. Don pulled out of the warehouse and onto the street. He began to drive slowly through the wall of water. Early spring rains were always torrential, but it was particularly bad this year. He’d never seen it like this before.

It took them a few more minutes than normal, but they finally reached April’s building. Don guided the Battle Shell around back and parked in the alley. As soon the car was stopped, the pair quickly jumped out and ran for the side door.

April answered on the first knock and let them in. It became apparent she’d been waiting for them.

“Thank god, you’re here,” was her greeting.

Both turtles realized she was upset and extremely agitated. Leo immediately began to feel something wasn’t right.

“April, are you alright?” he asked, “What’s wrong? Did something happen?”

The red-head looked about ready to cry, wringing her hands nervously. He felt more and more on edge with each passing moment by her behavior. He’d never seen her like this. A thought suddenly crept into his mind then, and it sent his stomach twisting into knots. Something was wrong with Alisa. April’s next words confirmed his fear.

“Alisa is missing,” she choked out, “I can’t find her anywhere.”

Splat. The package with the dessert slipped out of his hand and hit the floor. It was certain that they were ruined now, but he didn’t notice or care. He was suddenly numb of all feeling and could not move his mouth even to form a single word.

“Where would she go?” Don asked, incredulously, voicing what his brother could not, “Certainly not out in this weather. It isn’t fit for man or beast.”

April shook her head.

“I don’t know,” she replied, “The window in her room wasn’t opened and it was locked, so she couldn’t have gone up to the roof again. I’ve searched the whole apartment and the store too. I couldn’t find her anywhere.”

“I should’ve never left her alone,” she added, with a sob.

“Where did you go?” Leo spoke up, finally finding his voice again, “And for how long?”

Alisa couldn’t be missing; he was sure of it. She had to be in this building somewhere. She could be hiding perhaps.

“With Casey,” April answered, wiping her eyes, “He came over and asked me to go on a ride with him. Alisa was asleep at the time. I told him I couldn’t, but he persuaded me it’d only be an hour and she would be fine for that long.”

“I made him promise and I believed him,” she continued, “We went out, and an hour turned into two. We got caught in the storm on the way back, and I was angry at him because I should’ve already been home. When he dropped me off, I was soaking wet, so I went to shower and put on dry clothes. It didn’t occur to me to check on Alisa until it was almost time for you guys to come over. That’s when I discovered she was missing.”

“Do you remember anything that was out of the ordinary?” Leo asked, “Any doors opened that weren’t when you left; forced entries?”

“I do remember locking the apartment door when I left,” April said, “But it was unlocked when I came back.”

“What about the store doors?” Don intervened.

She shook her head.

“No, they were locked,” she replied.

“Then she’s still in the building somewhere,” he declared.

He glanced at Leo then and the blue masked ninja nodded his head in affirmation.

“We need to split up and search,” Leo suggested, “We’ll find her easier that way. April, you and Don can look around the store and front hallway. I’ll take the back hallway and storage room. If any of us find her, just give a shout.”

With a plan laid out, the trio set off on their separate ways. Leonardo walked slowly to the back of the basement, calling Alisa’s name softly as he did. He soon reached the storage room and peered in through the semi-darkness. His eyes searched over anything that looked remotely human.

“Alisa?” he said, a little louder this time.

He waited a few moments to listen for a sound or voice in answer. Nothing. He gave a heavy sigh. As he turned to leave, however, he suddenly heard it; like the sweet notes of a song bird.

“Leonardo?”

He whirled around and watched as the frail, petite young woman crawled out from behind a tall, antique wardrobe nearly shoved up against a wall. She was coated in a fine layer of dust from head to toe, with small clumps of the substance clinging in her blonde-brown hair and the bandages wrapped around her head. She was a sight to behold.

Quickly, he crossed the room and helped her to her feet. He felt almost giddy with relief, but that fear was still holding on and it brought now a touch of anger with it. However, he tried not to release it on her. There had to be a reasonable explanation for this.

“What in the world are you doing down here?” he demanded.

“I was hiding,” she answered, quietly, “From them.”

“Them?” he repeated, curiously, “Who?”

“The black ninja,” she replied.

Leo had a bad feeling her ‘black ninja’ was the Foot. He was instantly more alert and agitated.

“Where did you see them?” he asked.

“Across the street in the alley, outside the store,” she said, “I couldn’t see them in the shadows, but I could feel them.”

“And why were you in the store?” he prompted.

“I was looking for April,” she explained, “She was gone when I was awakened by the storm and I thought they’d gotten her. So I slipped away and hid back here. I was waiting until you might come to find me.”

It must have been a terrifying ordeal for her, and he knew there was no way he could possibly be angry at her after that. She’d simply only taken the best course of action to what probably might have saved her life, but caused a panic because it’d turned her up missing. However, she was safe now, and that’s all that mattered.

“Come on,” he beckoned, as he gently removed a clump of dust from her hair, “Let’s go get you cleaned up.”

He took one of her hands in his, and guided her out of the dark room into the hallway. In the light, he could see clearly just how dirty she was. She looked like a grey ghost. It would’ve been kind of funny had the situation that caused it not been serious.

“April! Donny!” Leo called out, suddenly, “I found her!”

He noticed Alisa’s eyes widen at April’s name and knew what she was thinking.

“Yes, she’s fine,” he assured, “She’d been out with her boyfriend, Casey, when you thought she was caught by the ninja.”

He made a mental note to have a serious talk with his sister before he left tonight. That was completely irresponsible of her and he was genuinely surprised she would do something like that. It was unlike her. He couldn’t imagine what’d gotten into her.

“Oh, thank god,” April started, as she and the purple masked turtle hurried over.

She stopped short, however, when she caught sight of Alisa. For a moment, all she could do was stare.

“What the hell happened to you?!” she suddenly exploded.

Leo noticed Alisa flinch slightly at April’s shrill tone and the visibly angry expression on her face. The poor girl was already shaken up and now she was dealing with her caretaker’s wrath for a second time in a row. He could sense her retreating into herself then as she shielded her spirit behind the mental walls she’d spent years building. Her emerald green eyes grew darker and her face became a blank stone; silent as a statue. This was exactly the type of thing he wanted to prevent because eventually, she would become unreachable to the outside world and she was far too special to fade away from existence.

“April, wait,” he warned, but the red-head didn’t hear him.

“Are you testing me, is that it?” she continued, “Is this a test of some kind you’re giving me to prove my trust to you? I don’t know what you want me to do, but it’s really starting to make me stressed and angry. I didn’t ask for this. You have to stop all of it now.”

Alisa remained quiet throughout the woman’s rant, feeling quite contrite and ashamed of herself. Maybe she was right; she was nothing but trouble. She felt her throat tighten and her eyes burn, but no tears were shed. She wanted to run as far as she could away from here, but she knew she didn’t have the strength to do so. This was why she preferred being alone; why she didn’t want contact with others. If she wasn’t judged as a freak for her gifted abilities, she was shunned for her behavior because no one understood her ways.

Both turtle brothers were stunned by April’s outburst, but none more so than Leonardo and it was quickly dissolving into anger. He couldn't believe what she was saying. He would not let her talk to Alisa in such a manner, appointed guardian or not.

“That is enough, April,” he hissed, his tone dangerously low.

The older woman blinked and stared at the blue masked ninja in astonishment. She had never heard him speak like that to her before. She knew then she had crossed a line she shouldn’t have, and immediately felt guilty.

“I’m sorry, Leo,” she said, quietly.

He narrowed his eyes as he studied her. He decided to accept her apology, but this was far from over. They needed to talk. He was thinking of the idea again of letting Alisa stay with him and his family, and this time it was sounding like it would be the best solution for all of them.

“You and I are going to have a little chat when we get upstairs,” he stated.

April simply nodded her head. Whatever he had to say to her, she knew she deserved it. She hadn’t meant to go so far.

Alisa sneezed violently suddenly, and it brought Leo’s attention back to her. The dust was causing her to suffer an allergic reaction. She needed to get cleaned up as soon as possible.

“But first, you need to give Alisa a bath,” he added, “Then we’ll talk.”

The four of them walked to the stairs then and headed to the apartment. April led in front with Leo close behind her. Alisa became sandwiched in between him and Donatello. She glanced curiously at the olive-brown skinned turtle with the purple bandana. Don smiled at her.

“Hello,” he said, cheerfully.

“Hi,” she replied, softly.

“I’m one of Leo’s younger brothers,” he told her, identifying himself, “My name is Donatello, but you can call me Don or Donny if you’d like.”

“Donatello,” she repeated, slowly, “’Gift’”.

She studied him for a moment like he would one of his science projects. It made him feel a little uncomfortable. Her eyes seemed to bore a hole in his skull and he felt like he was being mentally probed. Now he understood what Leo had meant.

“Your gifts of intelligence serve you well,” she finally spoke again, “You are highly educated and skilled. You know much of how the world works, but yet there are still lessons you have not learned; talents you have not mastered. There is much more in the world that exists that you have not discovered, and you will soon learn many are not rooted in logic or science.”

Don was astounded a second time that night and almost stumbled on the landing as he missed the last step. He recovered quickly, however, and remembered what his brother had warned him of. He must be careful of his reaction lest he upset the young girl, but that was really disturbing. He gave her an assuring smile.

“That’s very interesting,” he commented, “Thank you.”

She appeared uncertain of his answer, but after a moment, she smiled slightly in return. She could easily sense his discomfort and bewilderment, but his compliment had been genuine. He’d handled it a little better than his brother had, however. She assumed he was different, or that he was warned beforehand. She suspected the latter because he was feeling similar to what Leonardo had, but he had not acted the same.

When they finally entered the apartment, April headed for the guest bedroom. A minute later, she emerged carrying a small bundle of clothes, and then took Alisa into the bathroom with her. The two turtles meanwhile wandered into the living room and sat down on the couch. Leo noticed Don was unusually quiet and it caused him to become a little concerned. He’d heard the exchange between him and Alisa on the stairwell.

“You okay?” he asked, gently.

Don nodded his head.

“I think so,” he replied, hesitantly, “I just feel… I don’t know. Not violated, but exposed, I guess… What just happened?”

Leo smiled ruefully.

“That’s how I felt too,” he admitted, “I don’t know how she can do it either. It’s like some kind of intuition. She’s afraid of it or ashamed; maybe both. I can understand why though. Most people wouldn’t like to have their deepest feelings, thoughts, or qualities brought to light for all to see. It could be used against them to hurt them, but I don’t believe Alisa is like that. I think she only uses it for herself to know what that person is because she can’t afford to make any mistakes given with how she’s lived her life for years now.”

“Sounds logical,” Don agreed, “But it could be destructive if she fell into the hands of our enemies. What about those ninja you’ve mentioned she says that’s been chasing her? Do you think it’s the Foot?”

Leo’s expression became dark and solemn at the question.

“I do,” he affirmed, “And that’s why we have to protect her.”

“What are we going to do?” Don asked, “Take her home with us? You know Splinter would have a field day if you do.”

“I’ve already talked it over with him after I came home this morning,” Leo answered, “He agreed for Alisa to come live with us if it was necessary, and after tonight, I think it’s necessary.”

“Oh, Raph isn’t going to like this,” Don groaned, bringing a hand to his face.

“To hell with Raph,” Leo replied, bitterly, “I’m not going to let what he thinks stop me.”

“Just be careful, Leo,” Don cautioned, “I don’t want to see you or him hurt fighting over this, but I especially don’t want to see Alisa caught in between that war. She doesn’t deserve it.”

Leo instantly softened, and his demeanor was calm once again.

“I know,” he said, quietly.

A silence fell over the two then, an indication the conversation was over, and they continued to wait for the girls. After a few minutes, Don seemed to remember something, and pulled a foil-wrapped package out of his belt. He handed it to his brother.

“You dropped this downstairs,” he told him.

“Thanks,” Leo replied with a slight smile.

He doubted they were still in one piece, but he folded back the foil to check anyway. To his surprise, they appeared to have barely suffered any damage. Only one of the pastries had a small chunk at the end broken off. Otherwise, they were still perfectly edible. He rewrapped them carefully and made a note to himself to give it to April and Alisa before he left.

The bathroom door opened then finally, and a cloud of steam billowed forth. Moments later, Alisa slowly emerged freshly washed and wearing the blue-white gown and a matching robe. On her feet, she had warm, furry white slippers. Most of her hair was damp except for the area where the gash and stitches were. There were fresh bandages and gauze wrapped around her head.

She smiled when she noticed the two turtles in the living room and walked over to join them. Leonardo had to catch himself from staring at her. Even though he wasn’t interested in her that way, he had to admit she looked lovely. He and Don scooted to make room for her on the couch and she settled between them.

“Are you feeling better now?” he asked.

“Yes, thank you,” she replied, softly.

“I’m glad to hear that,” he said, smiling gently.

A few minutes later, April came out of the bathroom carrying the dirty clothes and promptly dropped them into the washing machine. As she was preparing the laundry, Leo decided it was time to approach her. He rose to his feet, but before he walked away, he glanced at Don. The purple masked ninja read the question in his brother’s eyes and then nodded his head as he agreed.

After a moment, Leo silently slipped out of the living room and headed to the kitchen. Don picked up the television remote from where it was resting on the coffee table and handed it to Alisa.

“Would you like to watch TV?” he asked.

She looked warily at the slim, black box in her hands, and then her eyes shifted to Donatello, narrowing them critically at him. She wasn’t stupid; she knew he was trying to distract her. His smile appeared to waver, and he swallowed a little nervously. She could get a convicted murderer to sing his confession with that stare. He wished she wouldn’t do that.

“What’s wrong?” he said, trying to keep his voice steady.

“I know what you’re doing,” she accused, “You don’t want me to hear them talking.”

“Uh….”

“You’re going to send me away, aren’t you?” she continued, interrupting him, “You’re going to take me to a home because no one else wants to look after a freak like me.”

He wasn’t sure why she was referring to herself as a freak, but there was apparently something she thought made her one.

“What?” he asked, flabbergasted, “No. No, we’re not taking you to a shelter. You’ve got it all wrong.”

She didn’t appear to have heard him. She stared down at her hands, her eyes growing distant.

“They want me, Donatello,” she said, her voice dropping to nearly a whisper, “And they’ll never give up their hunt until they have me. They’re too close; I can feel it. I’m weak and they know it. Soon, they’ll make their move.”

She looked up at him suddenly, her emerald eyes piercing his gold-brown ones. Her gaze flashed with an intensity he’d seen on only one other person; his older brother. Leo would look at them this way when he really needed them to understand how important something was.

“Please, don’t let them get me,” she urged, “There will be catastrophic consequences if I fall into their hands. Please, don’t send me away.”

Don felt a wave of pity wash over him as she begged for repentance that she didn’t need to seek because she had done no wrong. He knew little of her history, only that what Leonardo had uncovered on his own so far, but he could see just in her behavior that it had been harrowing. He reached to lay a comforting hand on her shoulder.

“It’s okay,” he soothed her, “You’re going to stay right here with us, and we’ll protect you. We won’t let any harm come to you. You’ll be safe.”

Alisa wondered if that could really be true. She didn’t think she would ever be truly safe. There were times when she thought she was “safe” only to have it compromised. She did want to believe Donatello, but her spirit was too weary to take those words to heart.

When the young woman offered no reply, the purple masked turtle sighed to himself, and then turned his attention to the folder containing his computer program notes that rested beside him. In the silence, voices could be heard coming from the kitchen, but they were too hushed to make out any words. So trying to listen was out of the question. Unless, there was a way she were to get closer.

She stole a look out of the corner of her eye at the turtle beside her. He was distracted by his papers now, seeming to have forgotten she was there. It would be very easy to sneak away, and he wouldn’t notice. However, as tempting as the idea was, she knew it was wiser to stay put. She didn’t want to get into anymore trouble than she already was.

She fiddled with the remote still in her hands for a moment, debating whether to turn the television on after all. On the one hand, she didn’t want to be distracted like was initially intended, but on the other, she was actually curious to know if TV had evolved any over these past years. She hadn’t paid much attention to watching while in the hospital; too busy being a nervous wreck.

Finally, she made her decision, and pressed the red button. The television hummed to life and the first images began to appear a few moments later. However, instead of colorful objects and people, only a grey static filled the screen. She changed the channel, but the result was still the same.

After flipping through three more channels, it was easy to conclude that the storm had knocked the cable out. Well, she hadn’t really wanted to watch television anyway. She switched the set off and returned the remote to its place on the coffee table.

There was a rumble of thunder overhead then, but it sounded more distant now. That meant the storm was finally moving out of the city, which brought relief to her. She used to love a good thunder and lightening storm, but it had always been from the warm and dry comforts of home. After living on the streets for more than two years where she was exposed to such elements, she didn’t find them so appealing anymore.

She was beginning to grow restless and she could feel tension building in the air. This was what was making her agitated and it could only mean something wasn’t right. She wondered if Donatello could feel it too. She glanced at him out of curiosity, but it appeared he wasn’t bothered by it. He still had his nose buried in those damn papers.

She curled up and lied down at the other end of the couch. Her stomach was twisting in knots and her head hurt as a result. She felt like crying, but couldn’t. That would have brought more attention to her, and she’d had enough for one night.

Suddenly, the explosion she’d been dreading finally came. A voice erupted from the kitchen and shattered the silence throughout the apartment. Even Don was startled briefly out of his notes by it. He soon returned his focus on the papers, however, and tried to ignore the fact his brother and their sister were fighting.

“You asked me to help, Leo, but she has to understand that she can’t do these things!”

Alisa felt her heart sink. So the older woman really did see her as a troublemaker. She didn’t blame her though; it wasn’t her fault. She was just a freak and a terrible person.

She squeezed her eyes shut tightly and fought against the tears she could feel stinging behind them. She wouldn’t cry, but it still hurt so much. She heard Leonardo’s voice then as he quickly retaliated, but his sounded constrained and calm. While quieter, it was still loud enough to carry to her ears.

“She’s lived on the streets for so long, April, she’s forgotten what her life was like before. She doesn’t know anything else. The transition will take time, but you can’t treat her like a child. She’ll only resist you more.”

As she listened, the young woman opened her eyes and slowly sat up. She was astonished and bewildered at his words. How was it possible he understood so much of her ways? No one had ever come this close before. She remembered his unique aura, his spirit, and its suggestion that he possessed rare abilities himself. Maybe, at last, there was someone who could truly relate to her?

For a few moments, there was silence in the kitchen, but then their bantering soon continued. However, they had lowered their voices again to the point where their words were unintelligible to Alisa and Donatello in the living room. Though she could not clearly hear their emotions anymore, she could sense the tension from earlier had broken and now a quiet resolve was taking its place. It was a sign they were settling their argument peaceably.

She sighed inwardly with relief, and rested her head gently on the couch cushion. She suddenly realized now how tired she was and longed to go to bed, but she wanted to say goodbye to Leonardo first. Hopefully they would not be too much longer.

She closed her eyes, and the next thing she became aware of was someone calling her name softly. She opened her eyes and found both turtles and April gathered around the couch. Don was still sitting beside her, but without his folder of papers now. Leo stood behind her, and the red-head was kneeling in front of her. It was she that had spoken.

“Alisa, could you wake up, please?” she asked, “We need to talk with you. It’s very important.”

The young woman nodded her head and sat up with April’s help. She felt stiff and sore lying in such an awkward position. Alisa felt groggy, but she was confident she could focus and waited for the older woman to begin.

“Alisa, I want to start off by apologizing to you,” April said, quietly, “I’m so sorry for the way I treated you and I don’t want you to think you’re a bad person because you’re not. You are a very special young lady, and I just didn’t understand. I handled it all wrong. I know you might not, but I hope you can forgive me someday.”

Alisa was dumbfounded and could only blink in response at first. She was touched by her sincere words, and they invoked a warm feeling inside of her. She found she could forgive April.

“I do,” Alisa answered, softly.

The red-head smiled and took her hand to squeeze it gently as a gesture of gratitude.

“There’s going to be some changes,” April continued, “Leo and I discussed it, and we feel it’s best if you went to stay with him and his family instead. He told me the experience you had tonight. You’ll be safer with them.”

Alisa was feeling overwhelmed. So much was happening to her that night. She turned and gazed up at Leonardo. He gave her a gentle smile.

“Is that okay?” he asked.

For a moment, she hesitated to answer. The arrangement with April hadn’t worked out, so what was to stop this new proposal from going in the same direction? Her new friendship with the red-head had suffered as a result. She didn’t want the same to happen with her strange and wonderful turtle friend.

Leo could read the uncertainty and fear in her eyes, and knew why. He touched her shoulder gently.

“I promise, everything’s going to work out,” he said, quietly, “You’ll see.”

She was drawn into the depths of his kind, sapphire eyes, and felt her anxiety begin to fade away as his words penetrated her heart. She found she believed him, and a flame of hope was reignited within her. Maybe this change would be good.

“Yes,” she finally replied, softly, “I will go.”

She wasn’t sure, but the turtle’s smile seemed to grow wider. He did appear pleased, however.

“April has packed your things for you,” he told her, “You’ll be leaving tonight with us.”

“I apologize for such short notice,” he added, registering the flicker of surprise on her face, “But I’d rather not wait until morning to move you. I don’t want to risk putting you in any more danger.”

Alisa understood his reasons and silently agreed. She didn’t want another close call like she had tonight either. She was still feeling a little on edge from the ordeal.

She noticed Leo bend down slightly then and pick up a suitcase from the floor. She assumed it must contain her belongings.

“If you’re ready, we must be going,” he spoke again to her, “It’s very late and we should all be turning in to bed.”

“I’m ready,” she replied, quietly.

She planted her feet firmly on the ground and using her hands against the couch, pushed herself to a standing position. She wobbled unsteadily for a moment, but soon regained her balance. Although, she was still feeling a little shaky. April, Leo, and Don were all close by in case she needed their help, but the strong-willed young woman was determined to do it on her own.

Alisa began to walk slowly to the door. April went ahead of her and opened it for them. Leonardo fell in step alongside Alisa, to act as a possible safety net if she needed, and Donatello took up the rear. The four headed down the stairs and to the side door leading out into the dark alley. The rain had stopped by now, and the ground was littered with puddles of all shapes and sizes.

The young girl couldn’t make out much of the vehicle that sat in front of them, but it was huge and tank-like. Leo opened the passenger side door and beckoned for her. The Battle Shell was a little too high for her to climb inside and both knew she wouldn’t be able to without help. She conceded to have him lift her up to the seat.

Once she was secured, Leo opened the sliding side door of the armored car and sat in the back. They waited in silence while Don lingered a few moments talking with April. Then he said goodbye, and hopped inside the car in the driver’s seat. He started the car and began to drive out to the street.

The silence continued on the ride to the warehouse. They were all tired and no one felt like making idle chit chat. By the time Donatello rolled into the warehouse, secured the door and activated the perimeter alarm, it was discovered Alisa was fast asleep. Leo quietly opened her door and unbuckled her seatbelt, carefully extracting her from her seat into his arms.

“Would you mind getting the suitcase?” he asked, in a hushed voice.

He started to head towards the elevator. Don pulled the case out of the back, and after locking up the Battle Shell, hurried to catch up with his brother. When they arrived in the lair, it was dark and quiet. Everyone else had already gone to bed.

This was a good thing because Leonardo was not in the mood to face them, especially Raphael, and undoubtedly would be plagued with questions. It could wait until morning. He walked to the stairs and ascended to the second floor to his room. Don followed only a short distance inside and set the suitcase down near the door. He watched as Leo laid the young lady on his bed and covered her with the blankets.

“Where are you going to sleep?” he asked, in a whisper.

The turtle in blue turned to look at him.

“Right here on the floor,” he answered, his voice just as low, “I’ve got a mat and some extra sheets I’ll use. This is only temporary until I can figure out where we can put her to have her own room.”

“Well, try to get some rest if you can, bro,” Don told him, “I’ve got a feeling you’ll need it for in the morning.”

They both knew the real obstacle would be their hot-headed brother. It was a high possibility Raph would freak out when he found out Alisa was here.

“I will,” Leo said, “Goodnight, Donny.”

“Goodnight,” Don replied.

He turned and walked out of the room, shutting the door behind him silently. Leo quickly and quietly located the mat and sheets, and spread them out on the floor near the bed. He also found an extra pillow.

He then began to take off his gear and stored it in its usual spot. He placed his scabbards on the floor beside his makeshift bed. His weapons were never far, just in case the unthinkable happened.

He flipped the switch down and turned off the light, sending the room into pitch blackness. He made his way to his bed on the floor and slipped under covers. He knew he would sleep tonight, despite his worry of tomorrow. He was exhausted, and moments after resting his head on the pillow, he was sound asleep.

End Chapter Eleven
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