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Chapter Text

Raphael watched from his spot on top of the stairwell as Leonardo paced back and forth. His eyes were fixed onto the Shredder’s lair as he paced, a stern glare fitted on his face. Michelangelo was playing a new game on his T-Phone while lying on his shell and Donatello was talking away on his own T-Phone. 
“Hey, Lame-O-Nardo!” Raph called, “How much longer are you gonna make us sit here?” 
Leonardo stopped pacing and rounded on Raph with a glare. 
“Would you shut up?” Leo hissed, “They could hear you!” 
Raph rolled his eyes, “If they could hear me then they would come here and try to kill me.” 
Leo rolled his eyes right back before continuing his pacing. 
“What the shit are we even waitin’ for?” Raph asked, “The Shredder’s been quiet for like a whole week.” 
Leonardo nodded, “And that’s why we’re here.” 
“Maybe he took a vay-cay, dude.” Mikey suggested, not looking up from his phone. 
Leo didn’t even consider him, “The Shredder doesn’t take vacations.” 
“Kinda like how you don’t take a break from being’ a pain in the ass?” Raph commented.
Leonardo narrowed his eyes at him, but chose not to respond. Raphael smirked to himself and turned his head to look at the Shredder's lair again. 
"Can we go now?" He drawled, his boredom evident.

Suddenly, the garage of Shredder's lair opened. Shredder shot out on his motorcycle, followed by a large van. Raph watched them zip down the street as he sat up.
Raphael whistled, "Looks like Shreddie's back from his lil' vacation." 
Leonardo immediately rushed to the edge of the roof, "Let's go!" 
Raph rolled his eyes and groaned. He picked himself up from where he was sitting and leapt off of the roof right after his older and younger brothers. 

Leonardo rushed to bring the Shellraiser to life while Raph sat down in his weapons' seat. Raph, Donnie and Mikey barely had time to buckle in before he was shooting out of the alleyway and racing down the street after the Shredder and his men. Raphael kept his eye on the weapons, making sure there was a manhole cover loaded and ready to be shot and that everything was in order. When Raph checked how many manhole covers they had in the chamber, the mutant scowled. 
"Okay," Raph yelled, spinning around to look at his two younger brothers, "Who's turn was it to load the covers this week?!" 
"Stop yelling." Leonardo scolded without looking away from the road. 
Mikey pointed at Donnie, "It was Donnie's turn!" 
Raphael rounded on Donatello, "Dammit, Don!" He roared, "I only have three shots! I'm supposed to have ten!" 
Donatello rolled his eyes, "Let's hope your aim has improved, then." 
"I'll show you my amazin' aim when I throw ya into the fuckin'-" 
"Raphael!" Leonardo snapped, "Enough." 
Raph snarled, but he settled back in his seat and grabbed hold of the handles that moved the manhole slinger around. 

They drove in silence for what felt like forever to Raph. Nonetheless, he watched the street whizz by on the scope without a word. He kept his hands on the controls, but his fingers away from the triggers. 
The mutant almost groaned in relief when Leo brought the Shellraiser to a stop. He was the first out of his seat and made a beeline for the door like the damn car was on fire. Leonardo had to refrain from rolling his eyes as he followed him out. They were immediately hit with the biting cold and falling snow that was starting to stick to the ground. Raphael released a breath and watched as it oozed out in a small cloud before him.

Leonardo had parked in front of a large, abandoned steel mill that was well out of the city. So clearly Raph wasn't being dramatic when he thought they were driving forever. Hell, Raph could make out a forest not too far away from the mill. The mill was a huge building with large windows that had been covered with tarp from the inside. The windows had been broken and nobody had bothered to fix them. There was a large black van parked in front of the mill. Raphael recognised it immediately; the Footclan were here. 

Raph stayed close to the Shellraiser as he brothers exited. They looked at Leo, who indicated for them to follow with a wave of his hand. Raphael nodded curtly and he followed with Mikey and Donnie close behind him. They moved around to the back of the building, keeping low and close to each other just in case. 
They scaled the building using their Tegaki and circled around the skylight to peer down at what was going on below. 

The building had been almost completely emptied out, leaving it one huge empty space with a small platform acting as a second floor. The only noteable things in the mill was the control panel that Stockman was currently buzzing around and the giant square-shaped hole in the ground. Bebop was huddled up in the corner of the room near the control panel and Rahzar was lying down, curled up, by the entrance of the mill. The hole was covered in small red laser beams that were glowing ominously in the darkness of the room. The Shredder was stood on the platform with his back to the Hamato Brothers. He had his hands folded over his chest. Tigerclaw was stood next to him. He had his paws on the railing, but he was looking at the Shredder. They were talking quietly, based on the way Tigerclaw's lips were moving. 

The Hamato Brothers shared a look. They had caught the Footclan moving a bunch of tech around the city. Some were taken from junkyards - hell, that's how Donnie even realised what was happening. He was on his own junkyard hunt and found Stockman poking around in one of the tech mounds. Other pieces of tech had been imported from other countries. Shredder was there everytime a shipment would come in, making sure nothing went wrong. That's the only reason why Leo didn't let them intervene. They 'weren't ready to fight Shredder again'. Honestly, Raph thought that was a load of horseshit. He trains twice as hard as his brothers do; he knows he's ready to fight the tin can again.

Raphael glared down at the Shredder as his brothers backed away from the skylight to come up with a plan. The Shredder was standing perfectly still, as if he were made of stone. He didn't look at Tigerclaw as they talked, he just watched as Stockman worked. Raphael sat perfectly still in a crouch, with his hands planted on his thighs in case he needed to make a quick grab for his Sais. He refused to move, he simply watched, occasionally flickering his attention to the other mutants dotted around the room. 

A sudden, loud clang made Raphael flinch. He spared a glance over his shoulder to see Mikey cradling his foot with both of his hands as he hopped around in pain. The Shredder spun around at the sound just in time to see Raph crash through the window. His cover was blown, he might as well take advantage of the surprise. His body slammed into Shredder and he clamped his arms tightly around him as he fell. He heard the Shredder shout and felt him squirm to get his arms free. Leonardo shouted at Raph, calling him an idiot as he dropped down onto the platform. 

Shredder wrapped his legs around Raph's body and flipped them. Raphael's shell struck the ground and he was forced to let the Shredder go from the impact. He gasped as the wind was knocked out of him and the Shredder took the oppotunity to climb off of him and get some distance between them. Raph quickly got control of his breathing and flipped up onto his feet. The Shredder flicked his arms, freeing the twin blades of his Tekkō-kagi. Raphael pried his Sais from his belt and twirled them about his hands. Raph had little cuts on his hands, arms and legs because of the broken glass but he took no notice or care of them. The Shredder and Raphael glared at each other as a battle broke out around them. Leo ended up fighting Tigerclaw on the platform, Mikey ended up with Bebop and Donnie was braving Rahzar. 
"Long time no see, Shred-face," Raph smirked, "How you been?" 
Shredder's eyes narrowed from beneath his Kuro Kabuto. Without a word, he shot forward. Raphael quickly met his charge as his eyes turned white from the nictating membranes slipping over his eyes. 

Raph ducked under the Shredder's first swing and jumped over the second. As he was in the air, he moved to kick the Shredder in the side of the head, but he ducked under the swing with ease and turned. The blades slipped back into the Tekkō-kagi a mere split-second before his punch to Raph's side connected. Raphael went flying with a shout of more shock than pain. 
He managed to twist in the air before landing in a one-legged kneel. He skidded back slightly as he pressed his hand against the ground to right himself. Shredder slid into a defensive stance. Raphael grinned as he spun his Sais around his fingers again. Raph raced forward, grinning evily at the fact he was finally getting a challenge in a fight. The Shredder went to slash at him, but Raph dropped down into a slide and he slipped right between Shredder's legs. He leapt to his feet and spun around right when Shredder did. They both swung and their blades locked together, forcing them closer. They strained against each other. The Shredder glared down at him and Raphael grinned right back. 

They both stepped away suddenly before they rushed each other again. Raphael flipped his Sai in his left hand so that he was holding it by the handle and so that the blade was sticking out of the left side of his fist. He slashed up at the Shredder's throat, who immediately stepped back to avoid it. The Shredder allowed himself to be pushed back as he dodged each of Raph's slashes. He shifted the Sais in his hands with every swing, which made it much harder to guess where his blade was going. They were edging closer and closer towards the pit, but neither seemed to notice. Hell, nothing seemed to exist beyond the fight they were locked into. 

Suddenly, after side-stepping out of the way of Raph's swinging Sai, the Shredder brought his knee up and slammed it into Raphael's carapace. A choked sound escaped the turtle upon impact. Shredder moved to grab Raphael to kick him again, but Raph swung up with his Sai. The blade sliced Shredder's bicep, making him quickly withdraw his hand and took three large steps back. Shredder's heel found the edge of the hole, immediately snapping him back to reality. He peered over his shoulder at the hole. It was framed with white tile and it looked like an impossibly high drop. A shout made Shredder whip around. Raphael was running at him and he was too close for Shredder to move. Raphael slammed into him and they both went toppling into the hole. As soon as they broke the laser beams, a loud screech filled the air.

The screech from the hole made everybody freeze mid-fight. All eyes tuned to it just in time to see Raph fall out of view. A piece of metal shot out from just over the lasers and slammed shut, sealing both Raphael and Shredder inside. The Hamato Clan and Footclan mutants broke away from each other and rushed over to the hole, their fight forgotten. The screens on the control panel immediately lit up. There were eight, all of them showing a different room. The screens were stacked on top of each other in two rows of four. The one on the top left showed Shredder and Raphael. 
"Oh no!" Stockman cried, curling up in the air as he grasped his head in his hands, "Oh nononononono! Thizz izz bad! Thizz izzz really bad!" 
Shredder was lying on his back, unmoving. Raphael was on top of him, his head on Shredder's chest and his Sais on the ground just out of reach of his outstretched hands. He wasn't moving, either. Donnie ran over to him and promptly shoved him out of the way so that he could see the screens. 
"What the hell is this thing?!" He yelled, rounding on Stockman after he saw his brother. 
Stockman curled up even more as he wrapped his arms around his body. 
"It izzz a trap," Stockman explained quickly, "Dezzined to kill you turtlezzz." 
Tigerclaw approached now. He grabbed Stockman by the front of his shirt and yanked him down. 
"Open it, now!" He roared in the fly's face, "I don't care if the turtle is in there, too! We have to get Shredder out of there!" 
Stockman quivered, visibly terrified of the tiger mutant before him. 
"I-I-I can't!" Stockman yelped, "It-It wazz dezzigned that way! Thizz door won't op-open onze it'zz triggered! They have to go-g-go through-through the trialzz if they want to zzurvive!!" 

A groan from the monitor made Tigerclaw pause. All eyes turned to the screens again as the other mutants huddled around the panel. Raphael sat up, basically straddling the Shredder, as he rubbed his head and looked around. 
"What the fuck is this?" 
The room around him was made up of white tile that almost blinded him. There were small lights that outlined the floor to light the room and Raph honestly wanted to break them. 
"Get off me." 
Raphael looked down, only to be met with Shredder's fist slamming into his snout. Raph fell back with a shout, his hands flying to his face. Shredder sat up and shuffed back away from the mutant. It didn't take him long to realise what had happened. When he did, he leapt to his feet and stormed over to the turtle. He snatched the tails of Raphael's mask and hauled him up onto his feet. Raph made a noise as he was forced back and slammed into the wall behind him.
"You idiot!" Shredder roared, slamming his other fist into the wall next to Raph's head, denting it, "Do you have any idea what you have done?!" 
Raphael opened his eyes. The nictating membrane had slipped off of his eyes. The light caught the green of his eyes, enhancing the force of his infamous glare. 
Raph slammed his knee up into the Shredder's crotch in an attempt to free himself. Shredder offered no reaction, which actually made Raph drop his glare for a brief second. 
"Let me go, you fucker!" Raph yelled. 
The mutant swung his fist and punched Shredder in the chin in a mean upper-cut. His head was forced back from the punch and he was forced to let go so he could stagger back. 

Raphael slipped past Shredder and lunged for his Sais, but the clan leader once again grabbed him by the tails of his mask and yanked him back. He was slammed into the wall again. The Shredder let go of his mask this time and instead clamped his hands down on the mutant's shoulders. Raphael immediately went to punch him, but Shredder caught his hands and pinned them above his head by the wrists. 
"Listen to me!" Shredder yelled. 
Raphael stared at him in defiance, anger burning in his eyes. But, he didn't move. Shredder waited for a beat, just to make sure the turtle wouldn't try to attack him again. 
"We are in a trap designed to kill you and your brothers-" 
Raph's glare fell and he batted his eyes dramatically, "Aww! But I didn't get you anythin', baby." 
Shredder slammed him into the wall again and tightened his grip on Raph's wrists, "Enough with your quips. Even if just one of us survives this, we won't be able to get out on our own. The door needs a minimum of two people to open." 
Raph arched a brow, "That design's a lil' shit, ain't it?" 
"I didn't design it," Shredder snarled, "Stockman did. What I am trying to say, as much as I hate this idea. We have to work together." 
Raphael shifed and Shredder immediately tightened his grip even more. 
"I think I'd take my chances." Raph snapped. 
Shredder leant closer so that their faces were inches apart, "You are the reason why we are in here in the first place," He hissed, "If I didn't need you, I would have killed you by now." 
Raph hated to admit it, but he had a point. The Shredder had no reason to keep him alive right now. He was unarmed and pinned. The Shredder had the advantage.
"There are no traps in this first room," Shredder said, "But there are seven others that will kill us if we don't play this right." 
"I don't play nice when I'm pinned against the wall, Knife-brain. Hands off." 

The Shredder slowly let go of Raph. He backed up until he was stood on the other side of Raph's Sais. Raphael edged away from the wall and over to his Sais. The mutant kept his eyes trained on Shredder as he crouched down to pick up his Sais. 
"What exactly am I gonna be facin' here, Shreds?" He asked as he twirled one of his Sais again, "I ain't fond of your surprises." 
Shredder hummed. He folded his arms over his chest and looked off to the side. There was a large steel door waiting for them at the far end of the room. 
"I know just about as much as you do," He answered, "I didn't design this." 
Raphael groaned loudly, "Oh, fuck me, you're useless." 
Shredder dropped his arms and he moved closer to Raph, "What was that?" He snarled.
Raph turned to him, folding his arms over his chest, "What, is it hard to hear with that ugly ass helmet on? I said. You. Are. Useless." 
Shredder flicked his arms, once more freeing the twin blades of his Tekkō-kagi, and he moved closer to Raphael. 
"Call me useless one more time," He snapped, "And see what happens, little turtle." 
Raphael opened his mouth to do just that, but was cut off by a small screech. 
"Raphael," Leonardo's voice suddenly filled the air, "Please stop antagonising Shredder. Can't you put up with him just long enough to get out?" 
Both Raph and Shredder looked around the room. They found the camera and speaker at the same time and simply stared up at it. 
"Says the man that dreams about killin' this fucker every night." Raph argued, pointing his Sai at the Shredder. 
"Mazzter," Stockman's voice came up on the speaker, "I do not have the blueprintz, we cannot guide you." 
Raph and Shredder shared a look. Raph pointed his Sai at the camera. 
"Y'know what, I take it back, Shreddie," He said, turning to the camera again, "You just live with useless fucks." 
"Raphael," Leonardo's voice appeared on the speaker again, "Language." 
"Oh, kiss my ass, Leo!" Raph yelled back, "You're not trapped in here with him!" He turned back to Shredder, "No offence." 
Shredder hummed, "None taken. The feeling is mutual." 
"Great," Raph turned back to the camera, "Stockman when I get outta here I swear to fucking God I will rip your wings off and feed 'em to Leatherhead!" 
Shredder moved to stand at Raphael's side, "And I will let him, fly." 

Stockman gulped, and he actually flew slightly away from the monitor. Raph shoved his Sais back into his belt and moved over to the door. 
"Okay, Horn-head," Raph said, "Let's get this shit-show over with." 
Shredder glared at the camera for another second before he turned and followed the mutant. They stopped in front of the door and looked at each other. They stared at each other for a moment before Shredder turned fully to him and offered his hand to him. 
"A truce," He said, "Until we get out of this." 
Raphael eyed him, his attention flickering from between Shredder's face and his hand. 
He sighed, "Until we get outta this." 
Raph grabbed hold of Shredder's hand and shook it firmly. When they dropped their hands, they both turned back to the door. Together, they placed their hands against the door and slowly pushed it open. The groaning of the steel as it was pushed open made both Shredder and Raph feel uneasy but both of them refused to show it. They hesitated when the door swung open fully. With one more glance at each other, the Shredder and Raphael stepped into the next room.

Chapter Text

The next room was much larger than the first. It had the same bland white walls, floor and ceiling as the previous room, but the lights were embedded in the ceiling instead of the floor. Shredder and Raph stepped in warily, choosing to stick close to the door if anything were to suddenly rush them out of the blue. 

That plan quickly crumbled as, as soon as they had stepped fully into the room, the thick steel door slammed shut behind them. Raphael swore and immediately tried to force the door back open while Shredder assessed the room. He looked at the walls, then the floor, then the ceiling, trying to figure out what exactly they were supposed to do. He could see the door on the other side of the room, staring blankly at him as it waited for him to come closer. 

It didn’t take long for Raph to give up on the door. He gave it one parting punch, grumbling curse after curse as he moved back over to Shredder. Raph didn’t check the room very well, he simply glanced around and moved to progress, stopping only when the Shredder grabbed his arm and yanked him back. Raphael whirled around to face him with a thunderous look on his face. Shredder countered that with a harsh glare of his own. 
“We don’t know what will happen in this room,” He snapped before Raph could speak, “Just walking through it carelessly is how we get killed.” 
Raph rolled his eyes, “Oh, calm down, will ya Sherlock? It can’t be that bad.” 
Shredder let go if Raph’s arm in favour of folding his arms over his chest, “It is a wonder how you lived as long as you have.” 
“I’m too pretty to die.” Raph offered Shredder a smirk.
Shredder had to stop himself from rolling his eyes. He turned away to assess the room again. Raph chose to stay put, folding his own arms over his chest as he glanced around the room. 

Raph managed to endure exactly two minutes of just standing there before he started to whirl around to find the camera. It was in the corner to the right of the door. 
“Hey!” Raph yelled at the camera.
Surprised, Shredder whirled around to face him. 
“We can hear you, Raph,” Leo’s reply crackled through the speaker a moment later, “What’s up?” 
Raphae waved to the room with a bored expression on his face, “Is there any way you can tell us what’s gonna try and kill us in this room?” 
Stockman replied this time, “We don’t have the blueprintzz,” He reminded, “We cannot help you.”
Raphael glared at the camera, “You mean to tell me Mr. ‘I think I’m smarter than everyone I meet’ doesn’t remember what he built in a goddamn death trap?!?” 
Silence answered him. Raph dropped his arm, staring at the camera in enraged bewilderment before he threw his hands up and let out a shout of frustration. 

Raph turned to Shredder. 
“Do you have a coin?” He asked, “We’ll flip for who has to go forward first.”
Shredder looked at him, “Why would I have a coin on me?” 
“How else do you settle who has to do somethin’ when none of you want to do it?” Raph asked. 
Shredder shrugged lightly, “I give them a choice. They do the task or I stab them.” 
“I can confirm,” Bebop’s voice suddenly appeared on speaker, “I have been stabbed by him before.” 
Raph groaned, running a tired hand down his face, “You belong in a fuckin’ asylum,” He grumbled, “You know what? Fuck this!” 

Before Shredder could stop him, Raph took an exaggeratedly big step forward. Silence stretched for a moment. Nothing happened. Shredder continued to look around the room while Raph slowly turned to look at him. 
“See?” He said, folding his arms over his chest, “Nothing-“ 

Shredder’s attention was taken away from Raph and captured by the wall to his left for a millisecond before he suddenly turned back and lunged at the mutant. Raph couldn’t move away in time and the clan leader tackled him to the ground. A split second after the Shredder slammed into him, a huge battle axe that was probably bigger than a bus swung down from a thin gap in the wall, just barely missing them. It swung all the way to the other side of the room before immediately swinging back and repeating the cycle. Raphael propped himself up onto his elbows to look at it while the Shredder peered over his shoulder. He still had his arm around Raph’s carapace. 
If Shredder hadn’t of moved Raph out of the way, Raph would have been cut right in half. Shredder looked up at Raph just in time to see the mutant force the look of fear from his face and turn his head to offer him a grin. 
“Guess I owe ya one, Shred-head,” He said, shuffling away from Shredder, “Cheers.” 
Shredder fixed him with a glare as he stood up. He then moved closer to Raph and offered him his hand. 
“Don’t do anything stupid like that again,” Shredder said as he hauled Raph to his feet with frightening ease, “If you die, I am as good as dead.” 
“My my,” Raph made a dramatic show of fanning himself with his free hand, “You really have a way with words, Shreddie.” 
Shredder let go of Raph’s hand and turned away go look at the far end of the room. 

More axes has started go swing across the room suddenly. There were about six more of them. They swung in a pattern. When one went left, the one after it went right. They hung about half an inch above the ground, making it impossible to simply duck under them. They looked sharp but they were moving decently slow. 
“Why do I feel like there’s more to this?” Raph asked, “Stockman’s a dick, he wouldn’t let his trap be this easy.” 
Shredder hummed in agreement, “I believe it would be safer if we cross the room at the same time. Then, if it gets faster, one of us won’t be left behind.” 
Raphael shrugged, “Alright,” He said simply, “Whatever you say, Knife-head. Count of three?”
Shredder rolled his eyes and took a step closer to the axe in front of them and Raph did the same. They watched the axe swing to the right. 
“One.” Shredder growled.
The axe swung back and made it to the middle. 
“Two.” 
Right when the axe made it all the way to the left, Shredder called again. 
“Three.” 

They rushed forward right as the axe came back down. The axe swept right behind them when they stopped and both heaved a sigh of relief. That relief was quickly killed off at the sound of churning metal getting louder. Raph and Shredder looked up to see the axes swinging even faster than before. 
“Son of a bitch.” Raph groaned, “Are they gonna get faster everytime we move?!” 
Saki crouched down and looked at the floor. The floor was a a slightly darker shade than the rest of the room. The difference was just slight enough to be missed if you didn’t know it was there or weren’t actively looking for it. 
“The floor is made up of sensors,” Saki replied, “When weight is added, it causes the mechanism in the axes to move quicker.” 
Raphael ran a hand down his face, “I’m too sober for this nerd shit,” He grumbled, “Any bright ideas, steel-mouth?” 
Shredder straightened and turned to the side of the room that they had come from. He stared at the floor beyond the swinging axe that they had just crossed.
“You gone deaf, Tin-man?” 
Shredder turned to him, “If progressing makes the axes swing faster, what do you think will happen if we go backwards?” 
Raphael frowned at him, “We lose?” 
“Maybe,” Shredder hummed, “But I wish to try something.” 
Raphael waved his hand dismissively, “The floor is yours.” 
Shredder hummed, “Don’t move.” 
Raph arched a brow at him, “Okay?” 

The Shredder turned fully to the axe that they had just passed and watched it swing, counting silently.  The axe swung twice before Shredder dove. He caught himself in a roll before stopping in a one-legged kneel just before he reached the first axe. He pushed himself to his feet and turned back to Raph. Raphael shot him a slightly annoyed and questioning look. Nothing happened for a moment. In the next moment, the axes‘ paces slowed. Surprise and slight amazement crossed Raph’s face. 
“Huh.” He dropped his folded arms, “Alright, smartass, what now?” 
Shredder nodded at the door across the room, “You go. I will keep the axes from moving too fast.” He answered. 
Raph shot him a skeptical look. Shredder rolled his eyes. 
“You die, I die, remember?” He snapped. 
“Why don’t you cross the room and I stay there?” Raph argued. 
“Because there will be nobody to slow down the axes,” Shredder waved a hand at the axes as he spoke, “I could cross the room faster than you.” 
Raphael shot him a ‘really?’ look, “Oh, is that so?” He scoffed, “Are you sayin’ I’m slow just because I’m a turtle?” 
Shredder glared at him, “When was the last time you ran through a room of swinging axes?” 
“I could ask you the same thing, asshole!” Raph yelled. 
Shredder stood there in silence for about ten seconds, growing visibly more annoyed with every second that passed. 
“It doesn’t matter-“
Raph threw his hands up in the air, “Of course it doesn’t matter when it comes to the pretty royal dickhead of the Footclan!” 
Shredder’s hands curled into tight fists at his sides, “I can clear the room faster than you.” He growled. 
“I’d like to see you try, dickhead.” 

Leonardo ran a tired hand down his face as Raph and Shredder continued arguing. He didn’t even bother trying to make out what they were saying. Their voices grew louder and louder to the point that it was making the audio in the control panel crackle and glitch. Donnie looked bored and Mikey looked like he was about to burst out laughing. 
“Hey,” Rahzar nudged Bebop with his elbow, “Twenty bucks says that they kill each other before they get to room four.” 
Bebop snorted, although Leo thought it sounded more like a pig’s oink.
“Ohoho!” He laughed, “You’re on, mutt!”

Leonardo reached for the microphone to tell Raph and Shredder to stop arguing. He paused when Raph suddenly threw his hands up in the air. 
“FINE!” He yelled, “We’ll do it your way! Pull that stick outta your ass, would ya?!” 
Raphael turned his back on Shredder, waving his hand dismissively yet again. Shredder didn’t respond. He watched as Raph raced right by the slowly moving axe. Right when Raph made it other next safe zone, the axes immediately picked up more speed, moving faster than they were before Shredder went back to the first section. Raph turned to Shredder as an expectant look fell upon his face. Shredder jumped. 

The second his feet touched the ground again, the axes reset to their slow-swinging pace. Raph let out a little huff and shot Shredder an annoyed look that only stroked his ego. Raph made his way across the room relatively quickly. He would cross an axe, wait for Shredder to reset the speed and go again. It didn’t take long for him to make it to the end of the room. The second he was past the last axe, the door shot up into the top of the frame and out of sight. Raphael hung in the doorway and indicated to Shredder. 
“The floor is yours, Mr. Detective.” He called. 
Shredder rolled his eyes and shifted his stance, getting ready to run. 

The Shredder shot off at lighting pace. He passed through the first three axes easily, but it was the fourth one he faltered at. It was moving fast. So fast that it was almost nothing but a blur. He watched it go back and forth for a bit before diving right by. Raph could hear the scraping of metal on metal and he could see the flying sparks as the axe skimmed Shredder’s armoured back. It was when he passed the fifth axe was when the real trouble started. 

The soft churning of overhead metal made Raph flinch. He looked up, only to find that the door was slowly descending; slowly closing. 
“Hurry up, Shreds!” Raph yelled. 
Shredder risked looking up at him. His eyes widened at the sight of the closing door. Raph raised his arms over his head and widened his stance. Shredder forced himself to look away and focus on the swinging axe. When Shredder crossed it after watching it swing about seven times, The door let out another groan and stated moving faster. The metal quickly dug into Raph’s hands. The mutant was forced into a deeper squat as the door tried to force itself shut. Raph forced himself to fight and push back against it. His muscles strained under the weight of the heavy door. Raph was using very big of his might to not buckle under the weight. 
“Any day now, Shreddles!” He grunted out. 
Shredder ignored him and continued watching the murderous blur ahead of him that could kill him in an instant. 

Raph was pushed lower and lower and lower. Shredder continued to hesitate, continued to watch the axe swing as he waited for the perfect moment to go. Raphael was forced down onto his knees but he kept fighting. 
“SHREDDER!” He screamed at the top of his lungs, “FUCKIN’ GO!”

Shredder drew in a deep breath. He closed his eyes for a second. He was half temped to let Raph get crushed. If they weren’t stuck together in this situation, he would have. 

Shredder opened his eyes and went. The swooshing of the axe filled his ears as he ran. The axe scraped his shoulder, but didn’t cut through the armour. Shredder dropped into a slide. He slid right past Raph, coiling his arm around his torso as he did so and promptly yanking him away from the door which slammed shut a half second later. Shredder and Raph laid on their backs on the floor of the next room, both breathing decently heavy, with Shredder’s hand settled on Raph’s middle. 
“I told you that I could do it.” Shredder spoke after a moment. 
Raph flopped his head back against the floor, “Oh, fuck you.” 

Chapter Text

Leonardo glared at the screen, his face thunderous. He had been staring at the Shredder, or more specifically, where Shredder had his hand. They were just lying there, as is mentally preparing themselves to progress. Either they haven’t noticed where Shredder’s hand was or they just chose not to acknowledge it. They were lying on a platform that was connected to the door that led into the room. The rest of said room was cast on total darkness and that unnerved Leo slightly. What could be waiting for them in that room?

Donnie had moved a little way’s away from the panel with Stockman in hopes that they could figure out a way to cheat the system and get them out of there. Donnie had played him aside once Raph and Shredder made it into the third room. 

Mikey, meanwhile, was huddled next to Leo, occasionally glancing warily back at the Footclan mutants that were circling them and the control panel. He only stopped eyeing them when Shredder slowly sat up. When he realised his hand was still on Raph's carapace he quickly withdrew it. Donnie and Stockman quickly moved back over to the panel when they heard them. Donnie stood on Leo's right and looked at the panel with a calculative look on his face.

"You still got all yer limbs, Knifehead?" Raph asked as he propped himself up onto his elbows. 
Shredder grunted, "Yes. You?" 
Raphael grunted back, "Yeah." 
"That door would have crushed you." Shredder picked himself up and looked around the darkness. "Why did you attempt to stop it?"
Raph shrugged, "You can send me thank you flowers if it'll make you feel better." 
Shredder shot him a harsh look. Despite this, he turned fully to Raph and offered a hand to him. Raphael took it surprisingly quickly and without a single hint of hesitation. Shredder pulled him up and set him on his feet.
"Besides," Raph continued as he looked around, "You said yerself that we're in this together. I was savin' my ass just as much as I was savin' yours." 
Shredder blinked, "Your selflessness still confuses me. As does your trust in my words."  
Raphael stared at him for a brief moment, "What?" 
"You attempted to stop the door without even a second of hesitation, beyond this, you didn't attempt to dispute my claims that you couldn't survive this trap on your own." Shredder stated, "There are two reasons as to why. One." 
Shredder stepped closer and Raph's hands immediately twitched closer to his Sais. Shredder spared them a glance before leaning closer. 
"You're an idiot who surfs through life thinking everything will work out in the end," Shredder spoke calmly, but sternly, "But you do not strike me as the fight-addicted meathead you present yourself to be, turtle." 
Raphael's eyes flickered away for a brief moment, "Maybe I'm just a trusting person." 
The two stared at each other - well, more like glared at each other. 
"You're not." Shredder said blankly. 
Raph sighed and nodded, "I'm not." He agreed.
"The second option," Shredder leant even closer until their faces were mere inches apart, "Is that you know something that your brothers do not." 
Raphael's eyes widened a mere fraction. Shredder hummed thoughtfully as he straightened. He smirked down at Raph who honestly looked like he wanted to murder him. A soft chuckle escaped him. 

Leonardo watched as Shredder close the distance between them. His hand gently touched Raph's neck as he whispered something in his ear. Raphael's glaring face melted away, leaving only a pure look of horror. The mutant's hands fell away from his Sais and simply hung there. He said nothing, just stared ahead, stunned. Shredder chuckled evilly as he pulled away. Raphael couldn't look at him, he turned his face away and glared at the ground. Shredder didn't seem to like that. 
"Now," Shredder grabbed hold of Raph's jaw and forced the mutant to look at him, "Shall we continue, Songbird?" 
Raphael snarled at him. He snatched Shredder's wrist and yanked it away from his face. He shoved Shredder away from him and turned his back on him to look around the room.
"Raph?" Leo's hesitant voice emerged on the speaker, "Are you okay?" 
Raphael's hand curled into fists and he shot a glare at Shredder over his shoulder. Shredder was simply standing there, smug, with his arms folded over his chest. The mutant didn't respond. 

Leo jumped when a claw landed on his shoulder. He whirled around, only to be met with Rahzar's smug face. 
"Looks like your brother's hidin' somethin', turtle." 
Leonardo turned back to the panel, frowning. Rahzar leant closer. 
"Hurts, doesn't it?" He said, chuckling, "To know that somebody you love so dearly-" 
Michelangelo suddenly whirled around and punched Rahzar right in the face with a powerful right-hook, sending him crashing to the ground. The mutant was left whimpering on the ground while Mikey turned back to the panel as if it hadn't happened. 
"Nice one, Mikey." Donnie said, "Did Raph teach you that?" 
Mikey nodded, "He told me to go for the nuts first, but I don't think Rahzar has those." 
That made the Footclan mutants - save for Rahzar - break out into a fit of roaring laughter, laughter that only died when the lights in the room that Raph and Shredder were in switched on.

Raphael and Shredder were met with a large room with the floor about five feet beneath the platform they were on. A room that was covered in long, deep cashes scuffs. The lights looked like they had been replaced several times. The beast that made it lay asleep in the middle of the room, surrounded by a pile of bones. It looked like a cockroach that had grown to the size of a bear. Its arms were thick and powerful-looking and were fitted with large hands that had exactly four spindly claws. sprouting from them. At the sight of the creature Raph's blood immediately ran cold. He opened his mouth to speak but all that came out was a wheeze-like sound. A knot formed in his throat; he felt like he was being strangled.
"Ah," Shredder said quietly, moving to stand next to Raph, "Yes, Stockman told me that one of you were terrified of these insects. Which one of your brothers was it, again?" 
When Raph didn't respond, Shredder turned to look at him. The mutant's face was the picture of horror. His eyes were wide and his mouth hung agape. He looked like he wanted to run and scream, but he stayed still, shaking. 
Shredder cursed quietly, "Of course it's you." 
A shaky breath escaped Raph and his knees buckled. In one swift movement, Shredder grabbed a Kunai knife, threw it at the camera and caught Raph with both hands before he could hit the ground. The clan leader covered Raphael's mouth with his hand to muffle any sound he might make as he carefully lowered the both of them to sit. 

Only when Shredder was sure that Raph could sit up on his own, he moved to kneel in front of him, blocking the giant cockroach mutant from view. Raphael was staring ahead, his chest rising and falling rapidly with each shaky breath he took. He kept staring ahead as if he could still see the cockroach mutant.
"Turtle." Shredder called quietly. 
Raphael's gaze shifted and he looked at Shredder. He still looked terrified and he was starting to shake more. 
"Turtle, you need to be quiet," Shredder hissed, "You'll wake it otherwise." 
That only instilled more fear into Raph. He scrambled back, shaking his head rapidly. Tears gathered in the corners of his eyes. Shredder glanced up at the camera to make sure it wasn't working - his Kunai had pierced the camera itself and it let out a pitiful spark when he looked at it - before he slipped another Kunai knife from his belt. He threw another one at the speaker thinking it would make it so that the others couldn't hear them. It didn't, it only made it so he nor Raph could hear them. Assuming they didn't whisper, the others could hear everything that they said.

Raphael's shell hit the door and he immediately curled up, grasping his head in his hands as he continued to hyperventilate. Shredder stopped just within arms' reach of Raph and sat on his knees in front of him.
"Turtle," Shredder called again, raising his hands to his chest as he tried to keep his voice as gentle as possible, "Look at me." 
Raph's eyes snapped up to him as he continued to hyperventilate. 
"Can I come closer?" Shredder whispered. 
Raphael looked away again. The slightest tilt of his head gave Shredder all of the permission he needed. He shuffled a little closer, keeping his hands where Raph could see them. 
"May I touch you?" 
Raphael didn't look at him this time. Shredder gave him a minute to decide. Eventually, Raph nodded. Shredder took hold of Raph's hand and slowly brought it up to rest against his own chest. Confusion flicked in Raph's face but he didn't pull his hand away. 
"Breathe," Shredder urged, "As I am doing." 
Shredder slowly inhaled as he held Raph's hand in place. After a moment, Raph copied him. Shredder paused to hold his breath for a second before he slowly released his breath. Again, Raph copied him. 

Shredder continued breathing slowly and Raph continued copying him until his shaking stopped. Shredder kept Raph's hand against his chest. 
"I need you to stay calm." Shredder said, "We cannot cross this room with you in this state. I will kill it, you don't have to go anywhere near it, alright?" 
Raphael nodded.
"Stay here," Shredder let go of Raphael's hand and stood up, "I will collect you when it's dead." 
Raph opened his mouth to say something, but all words died on his lips. His gaze shifted and a look of horror claimed his face again. 

Slowly, Shredder turned. The cockroach had awoken and was currently attempting to climb onto the platform. It was looking at Raph and Shredder like it was the tastiest bit of food in the world. Shredder rose to his feet and flicked his arms, freeing the blades of his Tekkō-Kagi.
"Don't move." Shredder said to Raph, "I will handle this." 
Raphael was far too petrified to move. He simply watched. Shredder stared down the mutant before him. It examined him curiously as the mandibles poking out of its mouth twitched. Shredder glared at it, waiting for it to make a move. The creature raised its second pair of arms high over its head before slamming them down on the platform, making it shake. Shredder took the beast in, looking it over as he got ready for a fight. 

The cockroach pushed itself further up onto its platform, bringing its third set of claws up to rest on it. Shredder didn't allow himself to be pushed further back. When its first pair of arms reached past Shredder he heard Raph cry out. In a blur of silver, arm that was reaching close to Raph was sliced clean off. A shriek pierced through the air as the beast leapt back in pain. It staggered back and away from the platform as its arms and mandibles and antennae flailed about. Shredder moved to the edge of the platform, waiting, patient. He risked a glance back at Raph. He was still huddled up by the door, still shaking, but he looked a little less terrified now. 

Shredder turned back to the creature as it started to inspect what was left of its arm. Its cries of despair and pain quietened when it noticed the Shredder again and it let out another angry screech. Shredder shifted into a more defensive stance and brought his fists up near his head. 

With another screech, the bug mutant swung its arm. Shredder ducked under the swing with ease and turned and stabbed it before it moved out of his reach. He yanked it back and the creature let out another scream of pain when the blades in its arm were yanked, but that scream turned into a shriek of pain when the Shredder promptly lopped that arm off with a swing of his free arm. The creature pulled back again and Shredder calmly flicked the severed arm off of his Tekkō-Kagi. 

The Shredder then shot forward and leapt off of the platform. The creature's other hands shot out and attempted to grab Shredder. Shredder managed to slash at the first one to reach him, cutting it off at the wrist, but he didn't have the time to twist around and slash the next one. It grabbed him and the pair of its third set of hands quickly grabbed him, too. The creature's grip was strong and the creature wasted no time in trying to crush him to death. Shredder let out a shout of more surprise than pain. The mutant turned to look at Raphael as it continued to tighten its grip on Shredder. It was eyeing him intently. Raphael could only stare back in fear, silently praying that it didn't try to come near. The cockroach payed no mind to Shredder's squirming; Raphael was its only focus. Shredder looked up at it the creature. It was drooling and its mandibles were flexing as if it were imagining swallowing Raphael whole. 

Shredder slipped his arm free from his Tekkō-Kagi and slipped his arm free from the cockroach's hold.  He reached forward, grabbed the bug's antennae in his hand and yanked as hard as he could. The creature shrieked in both surprise and pain and the next thing Shredder knew, he was being thrown across the room.

Raphael flinched when Shredder slammed against the wall and crumbled to the ground. The cockroach still had its eyes on him. They followed his every movement, eyeing every shake and flinch and twitch. The cockroach moved slowly over to him, usuing its remaining hands to push itself up onto the platform. The creature's face started to split at the mouth and the sound of tearing skin filled the room. The skin tore all the way across its cheeks, allowing the mandibles to stretch out further and letting Raph see the rows of teeth filling its mouth. Raph risked a glance at Shredder. He had picked himself up and was now creeping towards the cockroach mutant as the blades of his Tekkō-Kagi. Raphael forced himself to look back at the cockroach. It was still grinning at him, watching him unblinking. Raph kept holding its gaze as Shredder crept closer despite how badly he wanted to run and hide. 

The creature moved slow. It lifted one of its remaining arms and reached out for Raph. It was still grinning and its mandibles were still moving. Raphael curled up tighter, pressing himself even closer to the door. His stomach churned and he finally turned away, pressing his hands over his mouth. 
Shredder reached the cockroach just before it could touch Raph. He lunged forward and jumped, burying the blades of his Tekkō-Kagi deep into the creature's back. It screamed yet again, arching his body back in pain. Shredder twisted his wrist and the bug screeched in pain even louder than before. He then grabbed hold of one of the stubs left of its arms and used it to keep himself stable as he flipped. 

Shredder wrapped his legs around the creature's neck and freed the Tekkō-Kagi from its back. He brought his upper body up as the creature stumbled away from the platform, flailing and bellowing in an attempt to shake Shredder off. Shredder grabbed hold of the bug's antennae and raised his arm high. Raphael peeked out from behind his hands just in time to see Shredder stab the bug in the side of the head. Its eyes widened ever so slightly as its hands stopped moving. It looked at Raph with one last haunting grin before it collapsed, making both it and Shredder fall from view. 

Raphael tried to pick himself up but his knees immediately buckled. He crawled to the edge of the platform and peered down over the edge. Shredder was standing there, covered in green bug blood. He was holding the bug's now severed head by the antennae. 
"Shredder?" 
Shredder looked up at him. He held up the head to show it off to Raph calmly. 
"It's dead." He stated. 
Raph huffed a sigh of relief. Shredder immediately tossed the head to the side and picked up his discarded Tekkō-Kagi.
"Are you alright?" Shredder asked as he fitted the weapon back onto his arm, "Can you walk?" 
Raphael's silence answered the question for him. Once Shredder was sure his weapon was secure, he looked up at Raph and held out his arms for him. Raph shot him an odd look. Shredder narrowed his eyes at him. 
"I just killed a ten foot cockroach for you," He said stonily, "Do not give me that look." 
It took a lot of effort for Raph to not roll his eyes. He shifted into a sitting position and swung his legs over the side. With a brief moment of hesitation, Raph pushed himself off of the platform and dropped right into Shredder's arms. 

Shredder caught him easily and held him like he weighed nothing. He shifted him, hooking one arm around the mutant's legs and the other around his shell. Without a word, Shredder carried him over to the now open door across the room. 
"You stink." Raph said, flopping his head on Shredder's shoulder. 
"It's the new cologne I got recently." 
Raphael hummed, "Oh, yeah?" 
"Yes," Shredder answered, "It's called the blood of a bug I killed for an ungrateful mutant turtle." 
A smirk tugged at the corners of Raph's lips, "That's a mouthful." 
"I'm strongly debating switching back to my usual brand." Shredder agreed, his tone miraculously level.
That got Raph to laugh. He buried his face in Shredder's shoulder as he laughed and laughed. 

They reached the door. Shredder stopped and peered into the room. Most of the floor, save for two sections either side of the room, had been removed and was replaced with a giant pool that was full of blackened water. Shredder's fingers twitched against Raph's shell as he slowly moved into the eerily still room.

Chapter Text

The Shredder stood perfectly still by the door as he scanned the water. His grip on Raphael was tight and firm and he kept him held close against his chest. 
"What is it?" Raphael grumbled, not bothering to lift his head from Shredder's shoulder. 
Shredder hummed, "It is a pool, Songbird. The door is on the other side." 
The nickname was met with a cruel kick in the back of the thigh from Raph. It hurt, but Shredder didn't let that show. 
"Don't call me that." Raph snarled. 
Shredder chose to ignore him, "There is something more to this room," He went on, "I do not trust it."
Raphael groaned loudly, "I'll check it out if you're gonna be a wimp about it." 
"You can hardly stand." Shredder argued. 
That earned him another kick. 
"Put me down you prick." Raph grumbled. 
Shredder clicked his tongue at Raphael's insult but he set the mutant down on his feet nonetheless. Raphael's knees buckled a little but he righted himself and shoved Shredder away when he tried to help him. Shredder looked a little annoyed and Raph simply shot him a warning look.

Raphael turned to look at the water. He froze immediately, all movement stopping. His eyes never left the water. Clearly, he had picked up on the same feeling that Shredder had; something was wrong. The mutant slowly backed away and pressed himself against the door next to Shredder. Shredder risked a glance at him. 

Suddenly, a claw, attached by a thick chain, shot out at them from the ceiling. The claw snatched Shredder by the leg and clamped around his ankle like a cuff. Shredder was yanked off of his feet and was immediately dragged towards the water. Raphael rushed to grab him. He fell onto his front and caught onto Shredder's outstretched hands. Raphael immediately picked himself up and planted his feet on the ground as he lowered into a squat. Shredder shouted in pain as the chain snapped tight. His hands were clinging to Raphael's, his nails digging into the skin on his wrists. The chain let out a creak as it tried to pry the Shredder out of Raphael's hold. Raph refused to let him go, leaning back in an attempt to add his weight to his side. Shredder arched his head back to look at Raph. He didn't look scared, but he looked at Raph as if he was his only salvation. They both had a sense that something was very, very wrong. It was a knot in their stomachs that made them feel sick with dread; like they were a pair of rabbits running into a pair of wolves. 

Raph's dread suddenly grew. He glanced down at the water just in time to catch the smallest ripple. Raphael's eyes widened slightly. He looked back at Shredder. Shredder blinked at him. He was still giving him that look.
"Trust me." Raphael whispered. 
Before Shredder could respond, Raphael let Shredder go. Shredder was yanked up to the ceiling with one last ditch effort to grab hold of Raphael again. 

As soon as Shredder was out of the way, something shot out of the water, its open, waiting mouth snapping shut around nothing but air. If Raph hadn't of let Shredder go, he would have been bitten in half. It looked like an crocodile, only it was far, far too big. The bumps on its back had turned into spikes thicker than Raphael's forearm. It had two pairs of bright yellow eyes that snapped over to Raph as it crashed back into the water. Its skin was blackened and its mouth was covered in mini cuts from its previous victims fighting back. From the upper body alone, it looked like it was big enough to swallow a car.

It crashed back into the water, sending it shooting up and soaking Raphael. Raph immediately leapt to his feet and rushed away from the water's edge as Shredder struggled with his bonds. 
"Guess we know who dinner is." Raph said, his voice shaking. 
Shredder didn't answer. He wrapped his bound leg around the chains and brought his upper body up. He grabbed hold of the chains with both of his hands and started to climb up, bunching up the chains to avoid them getting caught in the crocodile's mouth if it tried jumping up again.
"You sure tryin' to bust out of those chains is a good idea?" Raph called up to him.
Shredder grunted, "I'm checking their security," He answered, "It is you that should be worried." 
Raphael scoffed and rested his hands on his hips, "Save yer worryin' for someone else," He snapped, "I'll be fine." 
Shredder tilted his head back to look at Raph, "You're the one stuck down there with a crocodile." 
"You're the one hangin' on the ceilin' like yer a lump of meat." Raph retorted, "I’ll be fine." 
Shredder continued to inspect the chains, sheeting where the weakest link is and doing his best to avoid breaking them. 
“Do you have any bright ideas other than trying to fist-fight a mutant crocodile?” Shredder asked. 
Raph shook his head and chuckled, “Nope.” 

As if summoned, the crocodile jumped out of the water at Shredder again. Thankfully, he was just out of reach by an inch. Shredder immediately started to climb higher up the chains until his fingers could hook around the loop holding the chain in place. Raphael simply stared. The crocodile had jumped even higher, allowing Raph to see its thick, long arms and wide, razor-sharp claws that extended from huge hands not unlike Raph’s own. Its mouth was full of thick teeth that could tear Raph’s skin like a shredder would paper if Raph wasn’t careful. It crashed back into the water, soaking Raphael yet again. 

Shredder peered down at Raph and watched him as he dropped down onto all fours and promptly shook himself dry like a dog, making his mask tails whip around and water to fly off his body like a mini spray. Once Raph thought he was dry enough, he pushed himself up to stand on his feet and peered down at the water again. 
“What are you waiting for?” Shredder hissed at him, “Tell me what you’re planning.” 
Raph didn’t answer. He simply stared at the water; only his eyes were moving. Shredder watched them flicker back and forth about the water, watching, waiting. They seemed to be glowing, like he had bright stars for eyes. 
“Turtle-“
Raph shushed him this time, “Crocodiles get hungry. Trust me, that thing’s figured out I’m a turtle now and he knows just how tasty turtles are.” 
“You’re giving yourself up as bait?” Shredder sounded bewildered, “Have you gone mad?” 
Raph had the nerve to shush him again but he offered no reason to what he was doing. 

Everyone above watched the control panel in silence. The Hamato brothers huddled together, waiting, watching. They wanted to yell at Raph, to tell him that he was crazy and stupid, but they didn’t want to risk making the situation worse. 
“Your brother is crazy.” Tigerclaw muttered. 
“Absolutely batshit.” Donnie found himself whispering back, “That’s why he’s going to make it.” 
Tigerclaw didn’t know whether the turtle was that sure in his brother’s abilities or he was simply praying that he made it out of this trap alive, but he didn’t care to ask. 

Raphael stayed perfectly still. His eyes continued to scan the water, searching for any sign of the beast below. It seemed to be waiting like Raph was. Even Shredder was silent. The mutant suddenly glanced up at the door across the room. This door had a little keyhole in the middle devotion of the door closer to the right side. He stared at it for a moment before glancing briefly about the walls at the room. Finally, his eyes settled on Shredder. Everyone watching on the screens leant closer to try and see what he was seeing, but the image was too grainy to make anything out properly. Raph then looked up at Shredder and mouthed something - they could tell by the way his jaw moved. Shredder looked at him for a second and then at the door. Then he looked around the room and then the ceiling. He shook his head and pointed at the water. Raphael made a dramatic show of rolling his head; an indication to his obvious irritation. 

The crocodile suddenly burst out of the water at Raphael, its’ mouth open wide. Raph leapt back as he yanked his Sais free. The crocodile waddled after him, pushing itself onto the platform with ease before running at Raph with an open mouth. The creature was absolutely  ginormous and covered the distance between it and Raph in a second. At the last possible moment Raph turned and dove into the water to avoid being swallowed. The dive was perfect; the water didn’t splash and he did well to keep his Sais in his hands. With a bellow of frustration, the crocodile dove right in after him, sending another fountain of water shooting into the air. 

The pool was much, much deeper than it looked; Raph couldn’t see the bottom. He made his way downwards anyway, swimming quickly and seamlessly. The crocodile lunged after him, its entire body wagging from side to side as its powerful limbs carried it through the water. It was gaining on him fast. Raphael allowed it to get close, only to dive to the side and out of the way of a killing lunge at the last second. Raph went to swim back down again only to be caught by the crocodile’s whipping tail. The force of the blow sent him flying back. 

Shredder jumped when Raph broke the surface. He landed hard on his shell on the platform by the other door and skidded back from the force. The crocodile was quick to follow. It leapt up onto the platform with a roar and immediately rushed Raph again, its four eager eyes intent on its dinner. Raphael scrambled back, swiping at the crocodile with one of his Sais as he went. The attacks cut nothing but air. 
The crocodile only slowed when Raph’s shell struck the door. Raphael glared at the giant mutant, his eyes still white from the nicitating membranes covering them. He didn’t look scared but he was breathing a little heavy. The crocodile stalked forward, almost looking smug, as it eyed its prey with excitement. Shredder slipped one hand into a little hidden section of his armour near his hip and produced a small Kunai knife from it. When the crocodile got too close, he threw it as hard as he could. 

The Kunai jammed right into the crocodile’s back near its right shoulder making it roar in pain. It whirled around to Shredder, snarling as its pupils thinned into slits. Shredder glared at it challengingly as he returned his hand to hold onto the chains. He got ready to have to haul or even swing himself out of the way to avoid being eaten by the beast before him. The crocodile paced back a little, completely forgetting about Raphael, before racing forward with impossible speed. Shredder saw Raphael move suddenly. 
Just before the creature could leap at Shredder, Raphael lunged forward and wrapped his arms around the crocodile’s tail and yanked as hard as he could. 

The crocodile lost its footing and fell flat on its belly with a roar of both surprise and pain. It was quick to pick itself up however and it twisted itself awkwardly, half-turning to see what thing dared to yank on its tail. Once it saw Raph it let out another one of those heart-stopping roars. Raphael didn’t look scared at all this time. He was stood a little hunched over with his fists as his sides and a snarl on his face. He was actually growling at the damn crocodile like it wasn’t big enough to swallow him in one gulp. The crocodile swung said tail as an attempt to sweep Raphael’s legs but the turtle jumped over it with ease. With a rumble of frustration the creature whirled around all the way and swung one of its claws. Raphael ducked under it and swung a punch of its own, deflecting the arm when it tried to swing back and hit him again. The crocodile swung its tail again and Raph jumped, only for the crocodile to swish its tail out of the way and swing its claw right at Raphael’s face. 

A shout of pain filled the air and blood flew. Raphael went flying backwards and slammed into the door behind him. His mask, but into four pieces fell from his face into a crumbling heap on the ground. He fell to his hands and knees as blood poured from his face. One hand flew to his eye while his other kept him steady, panting heavily and shakily as adrenaline raced through his system. Raphael tilted his head to look at the crocodile. It eyed Raphael hungrily, like he was the tastiest feast presented to a man who hadn’t eaten all week. Despite the shakiness in his legs, Raphael stood, keeping his hand planted over his bleeding face. The creature actually looked confused, but it snarled nonetheless at Raph. Slowly, Raphael raised his other hand as he fell back against the door for support. He crooked his fingers in a ‘bring it’ motion. Amazingly, the crocodile understood it. With a bellow, it stormed forward, once more opening those toothy jaws wide. 

Raphael ducked, finally removing his hand from his face, and snatched his Sais from the ground. He dove into the water in another smooth dive at the last second which caused the crocodile to slam right into the door, denting it. Yet again, the crocodile roared in anger before diving right back into the water with Raphael. Shredder watched as the water splashed and rippled as the two obviously struggled beneath the surface, captivated and completely forgetting the situation that he himself was in. Would Raph actually survive this? If Shredder was being honest, he didn’t think he would but he couldn’t do anything right now but hope that he did. 
“Shredder!” Michelangelo’s fearful voice crackled over the speaker, “Help him! Please!” 

Raphael twisted around in the dark water, slashing blindly as he tried to locate the crocodile. It suddenly shot at him from the blackness on Raphael’s right. The mutant swam back, just out of the way of its charge and swung his Sai. The blade cut through both of the creature’s eyes on the left side of its face, making it cry out in pain and roll off course to avoid the blade any further. Raphael waved away the blood that oozed around his face from both his cut and the one he gave to the giant mutant in return and shifted his grip on his Sais again. He waited, constantly moving in the water to locate it. It knew these waters and it could see better than Raph in them but that wouldn’t stop him. The crocodile emerged from behind Raph and swam at him at the speed of light, its ready jaws opening wide. 

The water stilled after five minutes of thrashing. Silence was left as the pool slowly returned to its still state. The only sound left in the room was the soft chinking of the chains that kept the Shredder on the ceiling. Nothing happened for a good few seconds. 
In a flash, the crocodile broke the surface of the water, its mouth wide open. Raphael was standing on its bottom jaw, his Sais raised high over his head. Both mutants were sporting cuts. Raph had a few new scratches on his shell, bleeding cuts on his shoulders and even a scrape on one of his legs. Hell, the crocodile looked worse than he did. It was covered in cuts and stab wounds and three out of four of its eyes had been cut through - hell, one of those three had been popped right out of its socket! 
The Shredder expected Raph to crash back into the water and deliver the killing blow, only for him to jump slightly, press his legs together and drop right into the creature’s mouth! 

The crocodile’s jaws snapped shut around him, swallowing him whole, before he crashed back into the water again. Shredder heard the Hamato Clan’s roars of anguish and morning over the speakers but he hardly registered the sound. He stared at the spot where Raph had been a moment ago, dread replacing what little hope he had left. 

The crocodile hauled itself out of the water and onto the platform where Raph and Shredder had entered the room. On top of the cuts Raph had given it, the crocodile was covered in bites and even a good chunk of the end of his tail was missing. The crocodile flopped down on its belly weakly and rolled onto its side with a pitiful groan. It let out a sound that almost sounded like a sob of pain as its claws rubbed its belly and what was left of his tail curled around itself. Shredder looked at it? Frowning in confusion. 
A blade jammed right through the crocodile’s stomach from the inside, making it jolt and rumble in pain. Blood gushed as the blade sliced upwards until it reached the base of its neck. The blade retracted and a pair of three-fingered green hands emerged and grabbed hold of both sides of the incision. Those hands forced it open, making guts and blood pour out and spread along the once pristine tile white floor. 

Raphael emerged as red as his mask. He spat out a chunk of crocodile flesh that he had bitten off into the water and wiped the blood from his mouth with the back of his blood-covered hand. Raphael tilted his head up to look at Shredder and slowly raised a shaky hand, revealing a blood-soaked ring that had two keys on it. Shredder stared at him, stunned. Raph threw the keys at him and he caught them seamlessly. The Shredder got to work freeing himself as Raph got off another perfect dive into the water to clean up. Once the cuff around Shredder’s ankle was unlocked, he let his lower body drop and used the chains to swing to the other platform. He landed in a smooth crouch before straightening and moving away from the edge. He picked up what was left of Raphael’s mask and stuffed them into a hidden section in his belt. 

Raphael shot out of the water a moment later, all cleaned up. He stayed on his hands and knees with his head hung, panting through his open mouth. The mutant shook himself dry just like he had before, although this time he almost collapsed and fell flat on his face. Twice.
“Turtle?” Shredder called, lowering himself down into a crouch.
Raphael tilted his head to look up at him. The mutant had three, thick, long and deep gashes running down the right side of his face, from his forehead, over his eye and stopping at his chin. Two of the gashes cut through Raphael’s lips. His eye looked miraculously fine. When Raph blinked, the nicitating membrane slipped from view, revealing his brilliant, practically shining green eyes. He panted up at Shredder, soaking wet, his head tiled slightly to the side. There was another gash on his left shoulder made by the same claws, and one long cut that ventured the length of the side of his left thigh. 
“I told ya,” Raphael chuckled weakly despite how shaky his voice was, “I’d… Be fine.” 
Then, Raph lost all strength. He fell to the side and the only thing that stopped his head from smacking against the tile was Shredder diving forward and catching his head before it could hit the platform. 

The Shredder pulled Raphael close as he sat down, turning them so that they were back to chest. He placed his fingers against his neck - he still had a pulse that was surprisingly steady.  Raphael melted against him as his breathing slowly settled. 
“Turtle!” Shredder called, shaking him gently, “Open your eyes!” 
It took a moment, but Raph tilted his head back and cracked open his eyes. A smile wandered its way up to Raphael’s face and he looked at Shredder dopily. 
“Your wounds need treatment,” Shredder told him, “But I can only do so much.” 
Raphael waved him off, “M’fine.” 
“You’ll die if I don’t deal with these now.” Shredder argued harshly, “I still have need of you.” 
Raph chuckled. He reached up and patted Shredder’s armoured cheek before shuffling down u till he was lying on his shell and his head was in Shredder’s lap.
“Do whaddya want,” Raph sounded too tired to really care or understand what kind of situation he was in, “Imma take a nap.” 
“I need you to stay awake.” Shredder said shortly as he reached into another hidden section of his armour. 
Raphael blew a raspberry at him and that earned him a sharp glare from Shredder.
“Fine,” Raph closed his right eye, “But you can’t complain when I start gettin’ annoyin’.” 
Shredder resisted the urge to sigh as he produced a medical needle and thread in a small plastic bag from his armour. He grabbed a roll of gauze from another section and set them all on the dry part of the platform behind him. The clan leader removed his cape and decided to use that to dab up the extra blood. 
“You a pharmacy, Shreds?” Raph chuckled again. 
Shredder clicked his tongue, “Right now I am your only hope and making it out of here alive.” 
“I thought’chu already were.” 
Raph closed his eyes as Shredder gently pressed his cloak against the wounds on his face. 
“Do you need something to hold onto while I do this?” Shredder asked as he moved the cloak away. 
Raphael responded by reached up over his hand and clamping his hands on Shredder’s hips. Shredder visibly tensed, even raised his arms to his chest in surprise. 
“This’ll do.” Raph muttered. 
Shredder blinked away his shock and grabbed the little plastic bag from behind him. He opened it and threaded the needle with practiced ease. 
“You done this before, Shreds?” Raph asked. 
Shredder hummed as he gently touched Raphael’s forehead. 
“Yes,” He said as he eased the needle through the flesh at the top of one of the gashes, “Many times. You are in good hands.” 
Raphael hummed this time, “Tha’s good… Tha’s good…”

The two stayed silent as Shredder stitched Raphael up. Raph kept his left eye open as his wounds on his face was stitched up and he looked at nothing but Shredder, blinking slowly every thirty seconds. When Shredder was done, he moved out from under Raph and instead folded up his cloak for him to use as a pillow. Shredder guided Raph to lie on his side as he started to stitch up the wounds on his arm. The gashes ran from his shoulder and down the side of his arm to the half-way point between his shoulder and elbow. They were thinner but deeper than the cuts on Raph’s face. Raph was reaching back and had his hand curled around Shredder’s calf this time, holding it tighter tab what Shredder was expecting given the state he was in. 

The thigh was by far the easiest wound to stitch up. It was longer, sure, but there was only one gash and it wasn’t nearly as wide. That one only took Shredder a minute to do while the wounds on Raph’s shoulder took five and the wounds on his face took close to ten. Once the Shredder was done, he put the bloodied needle and thread back in the plastic bag before he got to work wrapping up Raph’s wounds. He did briefly inspect the scratches on his shell but they were nowhere near deep enough to be of any concern, so he left it. 

After Raph was all wrapped up, he pushed himself upright and looked at Shredder. He looked exhausted and a little ridiculous with nearly half of his face bundled up in bandages. He was shaking like a scared dog in a snowstorm and Shredder honestly couldn’t tell if it was from pain, fear or the cold from the water. 
“Do you need me to carry you again?” Shredder asked. 
Raph shot him a sweet grin, “Aren’t you sweet?” 
Shredder frowned at him. But, nonetheless, he hooked his hands under Raphael’s arms and hauled him up off of the ground and grabbed the keys from where he set them on the ground. He moved over to the door, grabbing the key that he didn’t use to unlock his chains. He shifted Raph so that he could hold him with one arm. Raphael wrapped around him nonetheless, once more flopping his head on the human’s shoulders.
“Do not attempt that again.” Shredder stated as he slipped the key into the lock. 
“Aww,” Raph replied in a mocking voice, “You worried ‘bout me, Shred-face?” 
“You die, I die.” Shredder stated shortly. 
Raph hummed dozily as he closed his eyes, “Whateva’ ya say, Shreds.” 

Chapter Text

Silence was the only thing filling the air. Everybody watched the thrashing water, captivated. Leonardo's breath hitched when the giant mutant crocodile and Raph shout out of the water. Horror claimed the Hamato Brother's faces when the crocodile's jaws clamped shut around Raphael, swallowing him whole. Mikey immediately started tearing up and Donnie quickly embraced him, hiding his face in his shoulder. He couldn't look away as the crocodile dropped back down into the water, his own tears gathering in the corners of his eyes. 
"Raph...." Leo's hands curled into fists on top of the panel, "No..." 
Tigerclaw and Rahzar spared a glance. Rahzar's lips twitched up into a slight grin as he turned his attention back to the screen. 

The crocodile suddenly leapt out of the water and clambered onto the platform by the door. It flopped onto its side with a groan, facing Shredder. It sounded like it was in pain. It's body jolted suddenly and the mutants gathered around the panel could just about make out something poking out of the bottom of its belly. Suddenly, the crocodile's stomach was sliced open from the inside, sending a pool of blood of guts pouring out of it. A gagging sound escaped Bebop and he ran away from the panel as he slapped his hands over his mouth. Donnie looked away, cringing, as he shielded Mikey's eyes with his hand. Leo and Rahzar also looked away. Leo slapped a hand over his mouth and fought to keep from throwing up. Tigerclaw was the only one who kept watching. His eye narrowed as he watched Raphael crawl out of the crocodile's belly. 
"You all are weak." He stated blankly.
Leonardo gagged, and almost threw up. He swallowed and turned back to the panel, but gagged again and looked away. Tigerclaw rolled his eye. 
"Is it over?" Bebop called from across the warehouse. 
"They are still in the room." Tigerclaw replied blankly. 
Bebop must have looked at the panel again, because another gagging sound escaped him which was followed by retching. 
"You're cleaning that up later." Tigerclaw called. 
"Oh," Bebop groaned, "Fuck you." 
Donatello moved his hand from Mikey's eyes and let him go. He rounded on Leonardo, his face thunderous. 
"We need to get Raph out of here!" He half-yelled, "He just got eaten by a giant mutant crocodile!" 
Tigerclaw turned his head to look at him, "Stop with the hysterics, turtle," He growled, "You know that we can't get them out." 
Donatello rounded on him and opened his mouth to yell at him. Leonardo grabbed his arm and yanked him closer. 
"Enough, Donnie," He said sternly, "Yelling won't make this easier." 
Donatello looked annoyed, but said nothing. He turned back to the panel.
When Bebop had the strength to return to the panel, Shredder and Raphael had entered the next room.

Shredder gently set Raphael down on the ground once the door slammed shut behind them. Raphael shuffled back to lean against the door and he groaned, flopping his head back. The room was completely empty, save for a single, wide and thick sheet of steel dangling from the ceiling by four thick chains. Shredder's eyes narrowed before he turned to Raphael. 
"Take as long as you need," He said, "As long as we do not move away from the door, I believe we will not get attacked." 
Raphael hummed, indicating that he heard him as he closed his eyes. 
"Is it 'kay if I doze for a lil'?" He muttered, "Gettin' eaten takes a lot outta ya." 
Shredder let out an annoyed sound, but nodded, "Fine. You may have five minutes." 
"Ten?" Raph sounded almost hopeful.
"Six." Shredder answered coldly. 
Raphael simply hummed. Then, he went slack, falling asleep in an instant. Shredder stared at him for a moment, genuinely surprised that the mutant before him fell asleep so easily and so quickly. Was he simply drowzy from his wounds, or was he honestly so sure that Shredder wouldn't kill him the second that he could? 

Shredder moved closer to Raphael and sat down in the Seiza position next to him. He watched the steel dangling from the ceiling, his eyes narrowed. They stayed like that for a minute in silence. Shredder counted down the seconds in his head. Raphael suddenly fell to the side towards Shredder. If the human hadn't of raised his hand and caught his head before it could land on his shoulder, he would have been impaled by the blades on his shoulder plate. Shredder pushed him back upright. Raphael flopped forward almost immediately after and Shredder caught him again. With a grumble of annoyance, Shredder guided Raphael down slowly so that he was lying on his side. He set the mutant's head in his lap and folded his arms over his chest. He couldn't risk the idiotic mutant triggering the trap in his sleep. Shredder continued to count down the remaining five minutes. Raphael seemed comfortable in the position he was in, he didn't shift or wriggle. He simply laid there and slumbered. Shredder hated every damn second; this was the longest damn five minutes of his life. 
Shredder looked down at the mutant as his frown deepened. How could he be so peaceful and carefree while being so close to his enemy? Either this mutant was stupid or he was so confident in his abilities to defend himself that he hardly cared when coming face to face with a man that wanted him dead.

Once the remaining five minutes had passed, Shredder lifted Raphael back up so that he was slumping against the wall before he shook him awake. Raph groaned and pushed him away, shuffling into a more comfortable position. 
"Go'way." 
"Your time is up." Shredder stated blankly, "Wake up."
Raph groaned again. He cracked his eyes open and turned his head to frown at Shredder. Despite his clear annoyance, Raphael sat up and stretched his arms over his head as he yawned. 
"So what kinda shit do we gotta deal with now?" Raph asked, "This is the fifth room, right?" 
Shredder nodded, "Yes," He answered, "Clearly, the rooms are more dangerous than the one before it." 
Raphael shot him a look, "What kinda shit did you cook up in that lil' lab o' yours that could be more dangerous than a goddamn mutant crocodile?" 
Shredder narrowed his eyes at him, "How many times must I tell you that I did not construct anything that went into this trap?" 
"Maybe you should be more hands-on with what goes on in your clan. Maybe then I wouldn't be kickin' everyone's ass every other week." Raph snapped. 
Shredder leant closer, his annoyance evident, "Watch your tone," He snarled, "I may need you alive, but you don't need to be in a healthy state to help me get out." 
Raphael smirked, "You're not gonna risk hurtin' me like that. You would've died in the last room if I didn't kill the croc. I couldn't do that for you again if crippled me, Shreddie." 
An annoyed noise escaped Shredder. The mutant was right and he knew he was right. He shot Shredder a smug look before he turned to the room. He sat back against the wall and rested his arms on his knees. Raphael stared ahead as his smile fell. 
"Can the camera see us here?" Raph whispered. 
Shredder glanced around. He couldn't see the camera, which means that it was positioned on one of the walls on their side of the room. As they were hidden in the little nook made up by the doorframe, the camera wouldn't see them until they stepped out.
"No." Shredder whispered back. 
Raphael heaved a sigh of relief. 

Shredder frowned in confusion. Raphael reached into a square-shaped pocket in the back of his belt and pulled out a silver flask. The mutant twisted off the cap and let it dangle from the plastic ring around the small stubby neck of the bottle. Raphael cocked his head back and took a swig of whatever was in the bottle. 
"What are you doing?" Shredder hissed.
Raphael pulled the flask away from his lips and shot Shredder a look, "What does it look like?" 
"Why do you have a drinking flask?" 
Raph shrugged, "It's for when shit gets fucked," He muttered simply, "And trust me, shit is fucked." 
Shredder stared at him. Raphael stared back. His eyes had gone shockingly dim, a stark contrast from the way they shined earlier. The mutant looked away and took another swig from the flask. He then offered it to Shredder, but he refused to look at him. 
"Want some?" He asked quietly. 
Shredder shook his head, "No." 
Raphael capped the flask and stuffed it back into his belt, "Suit yourself." 

Once the flask was secure in his belt, Raphael tried to heave himself to his feet with the support of the walls behind and next to him. Shredder watched him struggle for a moment before he stood up in one fluid movement and offered Raph his hand. Raphael shot him a genuine, appreciative smile as he took the hand. He allowed the Shredder to haul him up onto his feet before they both turned to the room. They had chosen to stay close to each other out of fear that one of them would be snatched up at any given point. Together, they stepped away from the safety of the doorway.

Immediately, a groan sounded overhead. They looked up in time to see the chains start to move and the steel platform descend. Shredder and Raphael edged away from the platform as they readied their weapons. Shredder glanced down at the platform slowly desended. He was leaning his weight on his unwounded leg but he still looked ready for a fight.

Raph and Shredder could see what was on the platform when it got low enough. Fifteen Footbots were standing in three neat little lines on the platform. These Footbots looked different from the generic ones the Shredder had guarding his home at all times. These ones were a little taller and looked stronger. They didn't have a face and they weren't in Footclan uniform. The only way that Raph could identify them as Footbots were the Footclan symbol engraved in their chests. 
"Ah, I remember these." Shredder said as he moved into a defensive position, "Stockman designed them a few months ago." 
"Prototypes?" Raph asked. 
Shredder shrugged slightly, "I suppose." 
Raphael shot him a quizzical look, "I suppose?" He scoffed, "The hell is that supposed to mean?" 
Shredder spared him a glance, "I wanted better soldiers. Stockman designed these things and called them the FX models. They are stronger, faster, better, just what I wanted. But their coding kept malfunctioning and I ordered Stockman to scrap them and use their parts for something else." 
Raphael turned his head to glare at the camera, "Guess we know what that something else is." 
Shredder hummed, "We can deal with Stockman's misinterpretation of my orders later. Right now, Songbird, we have other things to deal with." 
Raph smirked at the idea that he was getting into another fight. He twirled his Sais about his fingers as he and Shredder watched the platform descend. The FX bots did look more indimidating with their lack of faces, but Raph hardly cared. He was sure that they all broke the same.

When the platform reached ten feet off the ground, the FX bots started to jump off of the platform. They moved in threes until there was no robot left on the platform. They all eyed Raphael and Shredder, unmoving.
"Don't they recognise you?" Raph muttered. 
Shredder didn't move from his defensive stance, "My guess is no. Stockman wouldn't want you turtles to trick them, so he most likely removed their facial scanning technology."
Raphael inhaled deeply, his eyes slipping shut as he fought every fibre of his being to not yell at Stockman through the camera for being a grade-A dumbass. 
"Shreds, when we get outta here can I beat up your scientist?" Raphael asked, rubbing his eyes with one hand, "He's been pissin' me off more than my brothers." 
Shredder hummed, "As long as he can still work afterwards, do what you want." 

It was then that the FX bots stopped analysing the two before them and they attacked. Raphael and Shredder jammed their blades forward, burying them in the chests of the two bots that reached them first. A cold, red substance that mimicked blood immediately burst from the wounds and sprayed over Raphael's and Shredder's faces. Neither had expected that, but only Raph jumped back in surprise with a curse.
"What the fuck is this stuff?!" Raphael kicked the FX bot off of his Sai before spinning around to slash at one coming in on his left. 
"Fake blood," Shredder grunted as he freed his blade from the other FX bot's chest, "Stockman designed them to bleed." 
"Why?!" Raphael yelled. 
The mutant ducked under a kick before stabbing one Sai into the bot's side and the other into its face.
"Because of the Hamato Clan's obsession with their no-killing rule," Shredder replied as he lopped off a bot's arm, "The only time any of you four go for killing blows is against my bots - well, most of you." 
Shredder spared Raphael a look. Raph face morphed into a look of guilt and surprise but that was immediately covered up with a glare. 
"So," Shredder turned back to hack off the head of the FX bot he had just removed the hand of, "When you were to attack these models out on the street, you will understand what it is like to kill someone. It was designed to scare you." 
Shredder spared Raphael another look and was met with an even harsher glare. 
"If anything, Shreddles, it disgusts me." Raph grumbled.
"Squemish, are we?" Shredder mocked. 
"No," Raph answered, "I'm just not fond of being sprayed with red goo everytime I stab something."

The remaining FX bots quickly circled Raph and Shredder, forcing them to stand back to back. They looked at them, waiting for the bots to attack. Four of them attacked at once this time, two at Raph and two at Shredder. They immediately rushed to meet their charges. The two that attacked Raphael jumped up, deciding that it would be more difficult for him to reach them giving his wounds. That didn't stop him. He jumped up as high as he could and jammed his Sais right into their stomachs. They were forced down into the ground as Raphael landed hard on his knees, blood and sparks flew when they landed on the backs. Raph turned his head to look at Shredder over his shoulder. The two attacking him did so either side of him. Shredder ducked under their lunges at the last second and promptly stabbed up, jamming the blades of his Tekkō-Kagi into their chests. He was immediately showered in the fake blood and Raph swore he heard him grimace as it seeped through the miniscule cracks in his suit and oozed over his skin. 

The final seven were quickly dealt with. Raphael mowed down three of them while Shredder managed to steal the fourth kill from him by a split second. Raphael had gone for the head, but Shredder and dove in from the side and slid behind it, slashing it in half with one simple swing and spraying the both of them with blood. 
"Asshole." Raph panted, shifting his weight onto his good leg. 
Shredder lifted himself from his knees and half turned to Raph as he flicked the fake blood off of his Tekkō-Kagi. 
"Perhaps you should be quicker." 
Raphael stuffed his Sais in his belt and jabbed an accusatory finger at Shredder, "Why don't you try bein' quick when you have stitches in your leg!" 
Shredder simply turned his back on him as he sheathed his blades. He moved over to the door as Raphael did his best to wipe the fake blood off of his face. He flinched when his hand brushed the stitches running down his face and promptly dropped his hand. He could always wash the damn stuff off later. Raph looked up at Shredder. The other door hadn't opened and the clan leader was clearly trying to figure out why and how to get it open. Raphael turned to look at the carnage that was left of the FX bots. Clearly, they didn't live up to Shredder's expectations if they were taken down so easily. 

Raphael crouched down next to the two he had defeated first. The blood looked thick, far too thick to pass for real blood, and was oozing along the floor slowly. Raphael prodded at it and it stuck to his finger the way that slime would. Raph shook it off and continued to prod and poke at the FX bots like a bored kid who just found a dead raccoon on the sidewalk. 
"We need another key." Shredder called suddenly. 
Raph looked up at him. He was making his way over to him. 
"You think the bots have it?" Raph asked. 
Shredder nodded, "Yes." 
Shredder crouched down next to him and ripped off the front chest of the FX bot in front of him. He started to dig through its circuits, ripping out wiring and pushing aside the little bags of fake blood that hadn't burst. Raphael shifted so that he was sitting cross-legged and ripped off the chestplate of the one he sat in front of. Instead of searching for the key, Raphael picked up one of the fake blood bags that hadn't burst and turned to look at Shredder as he weighed it out in his hand. Shredder was oblivious, too focused on his task to notice or care what Raph was doing. 

To hell with it, Raph thought as he promptly tossed the blood bag as hard as he could at Shredder's face. It exploded, spraying the entire left side of his head, shoulder, arm and chest with the stuff. Rapahel immediately broke out into a fit of uncontrollable laughter as Shredder paused. Slowly, Shredder turned his head to look at Raph as his own hand curled around one of the blood bags in the robot he was searching. Raphael looked absolutely overjoyed; the room was quickly filled with his warm, booming laughter that echoed off the walls. Shredder threw the blood bag. It exploded right in Raphael's face, once more painting it red. Some of the gunk got in Raphael's mouth and his laughter was immediately replaced with gagging and coughing. Shredder started to laugh as Raph turned away and started to spit and cough up the gunk in his mouth. His laughter wasn't all that different from Raph's - it was deeper and darker, but it was a similar booming bark that practically shook the room. 

Shredder hadn't really realised he had closed his eyes until he opened them again. What he was met with was Raph tackling him to the ground, with one blood bag in hand. Before Shredder could react, Raph straddled his chest and slammed the blood bag down onto Shredder's face, getting them both in the process. Shredder immediately groped for another bag as he sat up. His hand curled around Raphael's throat and he shoved him to the ground, pinning him beneath him as he pried one of the other bags from the robot's chest. 

The next half hour was filled with the occasional booming laugh from Raph and / or Shredder as they managed to land a hit on each other with the fake blood. They rolled around, wrestling, shoving, kicking. The only times they broke away was to grab bags that they couldn't reach and they quickly tackled each other once one of them had gotten what they wanted. One of the bags had somehow managed to hit the camera near the start of their scuffle, covering almost all of it in that red goo-like substance.

When they broke away for the last time, Shredder scrambled to find a blood bag. Raph found one surprisingly easily and he found great pleasure in slowly making his way over to Shredder. 
"Hey, Shreddles." 
Shredder paused. He turned. Raphael broke into a sprint and tackled him to the ground. He straddled his chest, pinning his arms to his sides with his knees as he held the blood bag triumphantly over his head. They were both painted red from their little war and they were breathing a little heavier than normal. Despite this and the pain from his wounds, Raph couldn't stop smiling and laughing and he swears he can see the corners of Shredder's eyes crinkling as he smiled himself. 
"Yield!" Raphael yelled dramatically. 
"I would rather die." Shredder returned. 
Raph grinned down at Shredder, "So be it, Shreddie." 
Shredder closed his eyes. Raphael slammed the blood bag down onto Shredder's face again, yet again spraying them both. Raph broke into another ring of laughter and he could feel Shredder's chest shake beneath him as he tried to stifle his own laughter. Raphael lifted the now empty bag with the intention of tossing it to the side, only for a little silver key to fall out of it and land directly on Shredder's chest. Shredder wiped the fake blood from his eyes and looked down at the key. Raph looked down at it, too. They then looked up at each other and shared a look of pure surprise. Then, they burst into a fit of maniacal laughter, with Raphael hiding his face in his hands and Shredder hiding his in the crook of his arm.

Chapter Text

Leonardo was practically shaking with rage now. He glared at the camera that was covered with that fake blood gunk as he listened to his brother and enemy laugh like madmen; like they were old friends sharing an inside joke. Donnie was watching the screen with a deadpan expression on his face and Mikey was fighting to keep from laughing. 
The Footclan mutants didn’t look all too pleased when Leo glanced back at them, in fact, they looked confused and honestly scared. Clearly, they had never heard Shredder laugh before. The eldest Hamato son looked over at Stockman, who seemed to be shaking even more than normal. He was buzzing around, twitching, back and forth in the air as he muttered to himself over and over. The Footclan mutants either didn't notice, care, or was so used to Stockman's ramblings that they had learned to tune him out alltogether. Nonetheless, it was very annoying and even more suspicious. 

Donnie suddenly rested his hand on Leo's shoulder, making him jump. He looked at him, surprised and confused. 
"I'm going to go call Sensei," Donnie said, "It's getting late and he should know what's going on." 
Leo nodded. Donatello turned to leave, but Leo grabbed his arm and he spun back around. 
"Don't tell him Raph's trapped down there with Shredder." Leo said. 
Donatello shot him a bewildered look, "Why?!" He quizzed, "He should-" 
"Sensei worries about us enough as it is," Leo said, "It would be better on all of us if you just tell him Raph got caught in a trap and we're working together to help him out of it." 
Donnie frowned at Leo, "Better for us, or better for you?" 
Leo returned the frown, "Better for Raph more than any of us." He answered harshly.
"Fine," Donnie wrenched his arm out of Leo's hold, "But if he finds out, I'm telling him that you made me lie." 
Leonardo turned away from him, "That's fine. I will deal with him when that time comes." 
Donnie didn't look too happy about it, but he left the warehouse without an arguement to go call their father.

Leonardo glanced up at Stockman, who was shaking worse than an old dryer, with one last suspicious frown before returning his attention to the control panel.

Raph hauled himself up onto his feet, staggering only slightly due to his wound, still laughing. 
“Didn’t expect you to be so much fun, Shreds.” Raph said, stepping aside and leaning down to offer Shredder his hand. 
Shredder looked at him and grabbed Raph’s hand, plucking the key from his chest with the other, “I do my best to exceed expectations.” 
Raphael smirked as he hauled Shredder up to his feet with surprising ease. They both turned to the door and moved over to it. Raph was limping due to his wound and Shredder was walking much slower than usual so that the mutant could keep up without strain.
"How many rooms do we have left?" Raph asked. 
Shredder stuck the key into the lock and twisted it, "Two more. Then we can leave." 
Raphael heaved a sigh of relief, "Thank fuck," He said, "This has been hell." 
Shredder hummed in agreement. The door unlocked with a loud 'chunk' sound and Shredder slowly pushed it open. It groaned loudly as it scraped against the floor. Raphael glanced at Shredder. He looked as stoic as ever, but looked absolutely ridiculous covered in splotches of fake blood. Raph guessed he looked equally as ridiculous, if not more so, but right now he didn't quite care. The both of them were eager to get out of this damn trap and get on with their lives. 

What they were met with made both of them pause. Instead of a spacious room, they were greeted with a narrow passage that was just big enough to fit a man through placed between two thick stone walls. Raphael and Shredder shared a tired look. 
"This had better not be a maze." Raphael said flatly. 
Shredder looked at the passageway, "There is only one way to find out if it is or not, unfortunately." 
Raph supressed the urge to groan.
"Can you walk?" Shredder asked. 
Raphael waved him off and scoffed, "M'fine," He said shortly, "If limpin' gets too annoyin', I'll hop." 
Shredder looked back at him, "Do not be modest," He said, "If your inability to walk or run prohibits our progress-" 
Raph scoffed, "Don't get'cha horns in a twist," He answered, "If I need your help, I'll ask." 
"I severely doubt that." Shredder stated.
Raphael shrugged, "Let's just get goin'." 

Shredder motioned for Raph to go first. Raphael stepped forward without a word of protest. 
"Hey, Stockman!" Raphael called, "What kinda shit did you put in here?!" 
No response. 
Raph turned to look at Shredder over his shoulder, who shot him an equally confused look. They reached the end of the passage. It branched off into two different directions, left and right. Raphael visibly deflated. Shredder sighed. 
"A maze it is." 
Raph groaned, "I fuckin' hate mazes!" 

Leonardo pressed down on the button at the base of the little mircrophone in the middle of the control panel. 
"Raph!" He yelled, "Raph, can you hear me?!" 
There was no response. There were multiple cameras in this room that showcased different areas of the maze. He could both see and hear Raph talking but clearly he couldn't hear him. Annoyed, Leonardo rounded on Stockman. 
"Stickmun!" He yelled, "Why can't Raph hear me?!" 
Stockman flinched, "I-I dizzabled com-communicazzionz for thizz room, azz I wanted no chanzze of them rezzeiving help with the zzoluzzion to the maze." 
"Are you kidding me?!" Leonardo exploded, "Don't you have any kind of fail-safe?" 
Stockman shook even more and flew even higher in the air, "N-No-No," He admitted, "Mazzter Zhredder wazz never zzupozzed to fall into the trap." 
Leo glared at him, but he turned back to the panel without another word.

Shredder had taken the lead now and Raph was following him closely, constantly looking back over his shoulder as if something would jump out at them. Well, given what they had dealt with prior Leo couldn't really blame him for being so cautious. 

"This may take some time." Saki stated, "This maze seems complex." 
Raphael answered with a shrug, "Compared to what we've been through in the past rooms," He replied, "This feels stupidly easy."
"I agree," Shredder paused at another inersection, looking between the identical paths with a frown, "There must be more to this. A maze is too simple." 
Shredder decided to go right again and Raph followed without a word of protest.
"Whaddya think it's gonna be?" He asked, "Spikes? Fire? Lava risin' from the floor." 
"I doubt that it would be something so dramatic." He replied, "It will most likely involve a puzzle." 
Raphael looked around at the stone walls. They were tall, probably around seven feet, and offered no help in which way was the right way to go. 
"What's stopping us from just climbin' up and walkin' on top of the wall?" He asked. 
Shredder stopped at yet another intersection, "Stockman is an over-thinker," He answered simply, "He most likely added a failsafe." 
Raph folded his arms over is chest, "No harm in checkin', right?" 
Shredder finally turned to him. He looked at him, as if trying to decide whether or not he was being serious. Raph simply stared at him blankly. 

After a moment, Shredder turned fully to him. He stepped forward and closed the distance between them. Their bodies were a mere inch away from each other's now. Raph had to push down the strong urge to step back.
"If you insist." Shredder said, sounding almost amused. 
With a surprising gentleness, Shredder grabbed Raph by the shoulders and spun him around so that they were back to chest. Then, he placed his hands either side of Raph's shell and hauled him up with terrifying ease. He brought Raph over to the wall, facing in the direction that they were heading, before lifting him up even higher so that he could see over the wall. 

Raph only got a second to look around before a loud bang pieced the air. His ducked his head down into his shell just before a large bullet could whizz through his skull. It instead flew across the room and pieced the wall. Shredder calmly lowered Raph back down onto his feet and stepped back, folding his arms over his chest as he eyed the turtle. 
"Satisfied?" 
Raphael popped his head back out of his shell and turned to Shredder. He looked at him, his bright eyes boring into him. He grinned at the human suddenly, making his eyes brighten.
"Yep!" He answered cheerily. 
Shredder blinked as his mind drew a blank. He stared down at the grinning mutant, unsure of what exactly to say. After a short moment, he cleared his throat and continued on his way, still feeling the mutant's eyes burning into him. Raphael chuckled to himself and followed. It hurt everytime he had to put weight on his wounded leg but that hardly stopped him from moving as fast as he could to keep up with the Shredder. The Shredder had picked up his pace and it wasn't as easy as it was earlier to keep up with him. Still, he kept trying. 

Raphael's leg gave out on him right as he tried to follow Shredder round the next corner. He fell with a shout and was fully ready to catch himself before he could face-plant the ground, only to be caught by the Shredder himself. Shredder helped him back onto is feet and kept his hands on his arms in case he fell again.
"You should be more careful." Shredder warned. 
Raph offered him a grin, "Sorry," He replied with a shrug, "You were walkin' too fast." 
Shredder hummed, "My apologies," His voice sounded softer this time, "Do you need help, or would you rather I carried you?" 
Truth be told, Raph's leg had been burning since he was left to stand on his own. When Raph grinned at Shredder again, he looked genuinely tired. 
"I think I could do with a break." He breathed, "My leg's killin' me." 
"You should have said something earlier," Shredder criticised, "Your lack of movement could decide whether we live or die." 
"And you call me dramatic." Raph managed another chuckle.
Shredder rolled his eyes. He turned his back to Raphael and crouched down. Raphael stepped forward and wrapped his arms around Shredder's shoulders. Shredder hooked his arms under Raphael's legs and straightened. He hoisted Raph up so that he was sat on his back properly and continued on. 

Shredder walked in silence and Raph simply watched, his cheek resting on his arm. It took somewhere between ten to fifteen minutes for Shredder to find the exit of the maze. It was a complex maze with lots of split-paths and dead ends, but Shredder only backtracked twice and only encountered one dead end. The end of the maze, sadly, wasn't the exit. Before them stood a large, steel door, held together by an empty gold disc. There were lines drawn on the disc that split it up into three sections. 
"It appears we need to go back into the maze." Shredder decided as he continued to inspect the door. 
Raph huffed, "Should we split up to look for the pieces?" He muttered. 
"Do you think you will be able to handle yourself?" Shredder countered.
Raph considered for a brief moment before nodding, "Yeah, yeah, I'll be fine." 
Shredder hesitated, though he set him down on his feet without a fuss. 
"Shout if you need me," Shredder said, turning to him, "And let me know if you find any of the pieces and I will do the same." 
Raph nodded, "I bet I can get more than you." 
Shredder narrowed his eyes at Raphael, "Is that a challenge?" 
Raph smirked, resting his hands on his hips, "Damn right it's a challenge!" 
Shredder smirked and leant down so that they were eye-level, "You are in no position to be challenging me, turtle."
Raph grinned and promptly tapped the mouthpiece of Shredder's Kuro Kabuto. 
"The name's Raph, honey," He said sweetly, "And I'll challenge whoever I damn well please." 
With that, Raphael turne don his heel and limped back into the maze as quickly as he could. Shredder followed. 

Shredder followed him until they reached the first split. Raph went left, so Shredder went right.
"I will win!" Raph called over his shoulder as he went on his way. 
"We will see, Raph." Shredder called back.

Raphael limped along with one hand pressed against the wall for support. He moved in a random direction, trying his best to remember the path that Shredder took in hopes of avoiding it. He encountered far more dead ends then Shredder did, which did honestly frustrate him, but he did his best not to show it. 
Raph was honestly surprised that when he rounded what felt like the hundredth corner he found a little open area. In the middle of that open area sat a pedastal, upon which laid a piece of the disc leaning on a pedestal. 
"I found one!" Shredder's voice echoed through the maze suddenly. 
"Same!" Raph yelled back, "One more and I win, Shreddles!" 

Raph started to make his way over to the piece, glancing around warily like something would just come out and attack him out of the blue. He paused around half-way down the path and looked down at the floor. There was a trip-wire set up at the end of the little path leading up to the pedestal. Raph drew in a breath and moved even slower. He edged closer to the wire and stepped over it with his unwounded leg. Once he was sure he wouldn't fall, he heaved his other leg over the wire. Raph released a shaky sigh of relief when he didn't fall and immediately moved for the piece. Raph snatched it from its pedestal and immediately limped off, jumping over the wire which almost made him fall, in case there was another trap that was waiting to spring the second he took the piece. 

Shredder kept a tight hold on the piece he had found, as if it would disappear if he lazed his grip even a little bit, and continued on his way. He listened out for Raph, in case he shouted or called for him, hell, he was listening out in case he fell over. He moved quickly, yet cautiously, pausing to peek around corners before he actually continued on his way. The past rooms had left him feeling uneasy. Stockman always found a way to make things unnecessarily complicated and he had an unhealthy obsession with traps. It was useful in some cases, sure, but Shredder would much rather go about his business without fearing the chance of an arrow shooting through his neck from nowhere.

The traps were well constructed, Shredder had to admit, though he was sure it cost him a lot of money to build. He's going to have to put more restrictions on how the fly spends his budget. Despite how well-built they were, Shredder highly doubted that they would be able to kill the turtles. Raph probably wouldn't have gotten his wounds if he had his brothers to back him up, even if he did sustain injuries, they wouldn't have been nearly as severe as the ones Raph had received. It was interesting watching him fight, perhaps Shredder should send some Footbots to observe his fighting style. He also found it very amusing that he was scared of a cockroach and not a crocodile, a species which is known for eating turtles. 

Shredder rounded a corner right as Raph rounded the corner on the other end of the hall. They paused when they saw each other and simply stared.
"Miss me?" Raph said eventually, offering Shredder a smirk.
Shredder tilted his head slightly to the side, "Do I have the option to say no?" 
Raphael snorted in response and had to fight off the urge to laugh. 
"Did you fin the last piece?" Shredder asked. 
Raph shook his head, only speaking when he had calmed down, "Nah." 
Raphael shuffled himself closer to the wall and sank against it, letting his eyes fall closed briefly. He groaned as he lifted his wounded leg a little off of the ground as his face twisted into a wince.
"Do you need to rest?" Shredder stepped closer, "I could carry you again, if needs be." 
Raph waved him off, "Just gimme a minute." 
"We may not have a minute," Shredder insisted as he moved closer, "We must continue." 
Raph huffed. He looked at Shredder, his face the picture of exhaustion. All he could muster was a nod. Shredder immediately closed the distance between them and hooked his arms around Raph before hauling him up. Raph slumped against him, only now realising how tired he actually was as he hid his face in his shoulder. Shredder carried him easily, changing direction in order to avoid returning to the areas that Raph had already checked. 

It didn't take much longer to find the last puzzle piece. Shredder walked through the narrow hallway carefully, shifting Raph in his hold so that he could watch where he was going. He moved just as cautiously as both he and Raph did with the last two puzzle pieces. He kept his hold on Raph tight as secure, holding him close to his chest like he was getting ready to yank him out of harm's way at a split second's notice. Raph was the one to grab it for him, given that he was too busy carrying the damn mutant, and held it close to his chest with the other piece. 
"I think I won the bet." Raph muttered as Shredder started to carry him back through the maze.
"I found it." Shredder argued, not even bothering to look up at him. 
Raph mustered up a grin, "Then why ain't you holdin' it, then ?" He asked smugly. 
"Because I am too busy carrying around a five-foot tall thief." Shredder countered.
That earned a soft snort from Raph, "Asshole." 
Shredder found himself smirking as he continued to carry the mutant through the maze.

Chapter Text

Donnie slumped back against the wall near the door of the warehouse, frowning down at his T-Phone. He had Splinter's number pulled up and had been standing like a dumbass out here in the blistering cold for the past five minutes because he was too chicken to call his damn father. Raph would have laughed at him and called him a chicken, Donnie knew he would, but what could he say to his father? If he wasn't careful then he could see through the rouse that Donnie was trying to set up and get all worried! If he knew what happened then he might never let them out of the lair again!

Donatello groaned and ran a tired hand down his face. This task was much more difficult than it needed to be. Why did he volunteer to do this?! 
"Having trouble talkin' to daddy dearest?"
Donnie whirled around, almost dropping his phone from surprise. Rahzar stepped fully out into the cold, offering Donnie his smug, toothy grin as he slid the door shut behind him. 
"Shouldn't you be watching over your master?" Donnie grumbled as he folded his arms over his chest. 
Rahzar shrugged, "Ain' much to watch over," He replied simply, "'Sides, there's nothin' I can really do to help." 
"And you're bothering me because?..." 
Rahzar chuckled and shrugged again, "Amusement," He answered, "If you don't play your cards right, what's dear old daddy gonna do to you?" 
Donnie frowned at him, "Buzz off, mutt," He snapped, "Before I put you back in your kennel." 
Rahzar laughed and shook his head, "You won't do shit." 
Donatello turned fully to him, pushing off of of the wall as he did so, "Oh, yeah?" He asked, heatedly, "And why's that?" 
Rahzar chuckled, "I'm the last man you should be questionin', turtle," He answered, "Maybe you should start with that meathead you call a brother?" 
Anger immediately fell from Donnie's face. He gawked at Rahzar, who offered him another smug grin. 
"What are you talking about?" Donnie practically whispered. 
Rahzar looked at him with an exaggerated picture of shock and innocence, "You mean you don't know?" A cruel smile crossed over his face as his voice dropped into his usual smug rumble, "How distressing." 
Donnie glared at Rahzar as the mutant disappeared back into the warehouse, laughing. 

Donnie turned away as he looked down at the T-Phone in his hands. He took several deep breaths to calm himself before he called his father. It took a couple minutes before Splinter answered like it always did. Splinter didn't have anybody to talk to with the Cheese phone so he had no real reason to stay near it. His excellent hearing made it so he could always hear the phone when it went off, but his lack of urgency when it did go off often meant he would take his time getting to it. 
Splinter picked up the phone about three gruelling minutes after Donnie had called him.
"Hello?" Splinter said in Japanese. 
"Splinter," Donnie breathed, returning in Japanese.
Splinter's voice noticeably softened when he realised who he was speaking to, "Donatello," He still spoke in Japanese, "Is there something wrong?" 
"Uh..." Donnie drew in another deep breath before he replied, "Raph got caught in a trap while we were on our scouting mission. But he's almost out." 
"Is he hurt?" Splinter asked worriedly, "Will he be alright?" 
"He's almost out," Donnie answered quickly, "We'll be home in a couple hours." 
Splinter hummed, but he didn't sound pleased, "Is he hurt?" 
Again, Donnie hesitated.
Splinter sighed, "How badly?" He asked, "Should I prep your medical equipment?" 
"No," Donnie lied quickly, "I can handle that in the Shellraiser. He'll be fine." 
"...If you insist," Splinter didn't sound convinced, "You will inform me the second that he is safe." 
Donnie nodded, "Yes, of course." 
"You must tell me when he's safe." Splinter insisted.
Donnie nodded again, "I will, I promise, Sensei." 
Splinter sighed and hung up. Donnie hid his face in his hand again and sighed heavily. He quickly wandered back inside to escape the cold as he shoved his T-Phone back into his belt. 

Raphael flopped his head on Shredder's shoulder as his eyes fell closed. Shredder glanced down at him. 
"You aren't dying on me, are you?" He asked. 
Raph snorted, "What, you gonna miss me, Shreddles?" 
"Hardly," Shredder sounded amused, not nearly as gruff as earlier, "I would be quite glad you have you gone." 
A wide grin settled itself over Raph's face, "You'll miss me!" He called in a sing-song voice, reaching up to gently pat Shredder's armoured cheek, "You know you will!"
"Be quiet." Shredder still sounded amused. 
Raph's grin only widened, "As the one who won out bet, I think I can talk as much as I want!" 
"You didn't win the bet." Shredder countered. 
"Hush," Raph replied, "I can't hear you over me winning." 
Shredder rolled his eyes. 

It didn't take Shredder long to find the exit of the maze again. He set Raph back down on his feet when they made it to the end of the maze. Raph held the three disc pieces close to his chest as he scanned the section in the door that they were supposed to go into suspiciously. 
"I have a bad feelin' 'bout this, Shreds." Raph muttered. 
"As do I," Shredder agreed, "But we do not have a choice." 
Raphael frowned, but he said nothing. He handed the pieces to Shredder when they reached the door and the human quickly put them in their places in the door. Raphael just watched him boredly. 
"If more of those weird robots drop on us," He said, "I'm kickin' your ass in another blood war." 
"You will do no such thing," Shredder replied, "This will already take hours to wash off." 
Raph shrugged, "You should have considered that before you lost the fake blood war." 
"You should consider that the only thing keeping you alive right now is my lack of a desire for death."
Raph shrugged again, "You couldn't kill me even if you tried." 
Shredder paused an d turned to look at him, "Oh, is that so?" He asked. 
Raphael smirked, "I'm too pretty to die, remember?" 
Shredder shook his head and pushed the last piece into its place. 
"I can fix that." He said, turning back to face Raph. 
Raph was still smiling. He wasn't taking Shredder's threat at all. In fact, he seemed to find the idea amusing. He stepped closer and Shredder watched him with wary eyes. Raphael closed the distance between them and rested his hands flat against Shredder's chest, leaning close so that their faces were inches apart. 
"Does that mean you think I'm pretty, honey?" He said sweetly, "I'm touched, really." 
Shredder's wariness immediately melted into a stern, icy frown. He shoved Raphael away. 

Due to Raph's weakened leg, he ended up crumbling to the ground. He landed on his ass, laughing like a madman as he wrapped his arms around himself. Shredder glared at him for a second before turning back to the door. It hasn't opened yet. In fact, nothing seemed to have happened. 
"Something is wrong." He said, more to himself then to Raph. 
"No shit, Sherlock," Raph replied once he had calmed down, "Help me up, would'ya?" 
"Help yourself." Shredder said coldly. 
Raphael mock-pouted at him but he rolled onto his front and tried to force himself up. He managed to get the foot of his good leg under him and he tried to push himself up, but the second he put his other foot down he crumbled and fell onto his side. A snarl of annoyance escaped him and he punched the ground in frustration, denting and cracking the tile ground. Shredder paused upon seeing this and he stared down at Raph as he slowly lifted his fist from the mini crater from the ground. The mutant looked at his quickly bruising knuckles as his entire body shook with angry and laboured breathing. He couldn't hear Leonardo shouting at him from above, yelling at him to calm down. All he could hear is his heart beat, all he could feel was the way his enraged breathing choked him. His anger bubbled like boiling water through his system, quickly overriding the pain burning in his leg.

Hands rested on Raphael's shoulders and he actually jumped. He snapped his head to the side, only to see the Shredder kneeling next to him, his hands on his shoulders. Shredder took hold of Raph's hand and laid it flat against his chest. He looked Raph in the eyes, at the nictitating membranes that painted his eyes a blinding white, as he drew a purposefully long and slow breath as he held Raph's hand steady. He tapped his finger against the back of Raph's hand, signalling every second that he took to breathe. Raphael found himself copying him, focusing on the tapping on his hand. He tapped five times. Shredder held his breath for two seconds and he tapped Raph's hand twice. He exhaled for five seconds and tapped Raph's hand five times. This process was repeated until Raph had gotten control of his breathing and it had returned to a calm, natural pace. Only then did Shredder lean close. 
"Rage is a weapon," He whispered softly, "A fire, and a powerful one when used in battle correctly." 
Shredder ran his knuckles down Raph's cheek before gently grasping his chin in between two fingers. He made Raph look at him, though the motion was slow and almost gentle. Raphael stared at him as the nictitating membrane slid back behind his eyelids to reveal his vibrant, practically shining eyes. He looked stunned. Shredder leant even closer; Raphael's breath spooled out over the mouthpiece of his Kuro Kabuto, sending quickly-fading clouds of air clouding up the metal.
"Do not let it burn you, Raph," Shredder went on, his tone soft and his voice still low, "Lest it ruins that pretty face of yours. I would hate for you to die just yet, you are such an intriguing thing." 
Raphael had forgotten to breathe when Shredder said those words. When he remembered, a heavy huff escaped him as he stared; as if frozen by what Shredder had just said to him. A small smile perked the corners of his mouth. 
"Ain' you cute," He muttered back, "Like a lil' bunny."

Shredder pulled away, shaking his head. He stood up and offered Raph a hand. Raphael took it and Shredder hauled the mutant to his feet with ease. Raph tightened his hold on Shredder's hand before he could let go and tugged him closer so they were standing chest to chest. 
"You're a cutie, Bunny," Raph smirked up at the Shredder, though he kept his voice down, "I'll almost miss you when we're out of here."
Shredder clicked his tongue, "I will try not to aim for your face when we battle next," He returned.
Raph's grin widened, "Thanks," He said before whispering, "Bunny." 
Shredder stepped away and turned his attention back to the door with a grunt of annoyance, letting go of Raph's hand as he did so.

Raphael turned away and watched the maze. It didn't feel right. It felt far too easy. 
Shredder started to fiddle with the pieces, putting them in different places and even flipping them over to see if something worked. He fiddled with the pieces for a couple of minutes before a loud click finally sounded. The pieces sunk into the doors and and a circular panel snapped over it, preventing anybody from removing the pieces. again. A loud  'chunk' noise came from the maze, which made Shredder turn. Both he and Raph watched as the maze sunk into the ground, leaving the room looking empty. 
"Okay," Raph looked at Shredder, "Should I be gettin' worried?" 
Shredder folded his arms over his chest, "You should have been getting worried an hour ago, when you made me waste my evening in this pathetic contraption." 
Raphael spared him a glance, "Maybe you shouldn't be so fun to tackle." 
"Maybe you should learn to watch your surroundings before you tackle people." Shredder countered.
"Maybe you shouldn't have your lab goblin build death traps." Raph folded his own arms over his chest now. 
Shredder opened his mouth to retort, only for a loud boom that shook the ground cut him off.

Large pillars rose from the floor and panels from the ceiling opened. The pillars were all of different heights and some had little indents in them to help somebody climb up. There were four pillars that almost reached the ceiling and several others that were either half the size of a quarter of those pillars. The four tall pillars had little glass cabinets sitting in top; each of them contained a key. From the panels in the ceiling more of those FX Bots dropped down, each of them holding weapons. Raphael visibly deflated. 
"Shreds, I swear-" 
"Yes, I know," Shredder sighed, "I hate them too." 
Raph pulled his Sais from his belt and spun them about his fingers. 
"Wanna see who can kill the most?" He asked. 
Shredder shot him a look, "Another challenge?" He quizzed. 
Raph looked at him and frowned, "I'm tryin' to make this interestin'!" 
"Ah, yes, of course," Shredder replied, his tone dripping with sarcasm, "Because a death trap isn't ineresting enough." 
"Oh you would have died of boredom without me by now and you know it." 
Shredder pinched the bridge of his nose, "Can we just destroy the robots and get out of the room?" 
"Say the magic words, Bunny." Raph smirked, "It begins with a 'P.'" 
Shredder didn't look at him, "Put your fighting skills to work before I transform your shell into a footstool." 
Raph shrugged, "Close enough."
Shredder flicked his arms to the side, freeing the twin blades of his Tekkō-Kagi. 

They both shot forward and the FX Bots rushed to meet their charge. There were twenty of them and nearly all of them were handling twin Katanas. One had twin Sais and a couple others had Bo staffs. Two of the bots met Shredder and Raph in the middle with the other eighteen circled them. Raph crossed his blades over his head just before the robot that attacked him could slice his head in half with its Katanas. Shredder moved to stab the robot that braved him, only for it to cross its Sais over its stomach before he could do any damage. Both Raph and Shredder pulled away and shifted their stances. They glanced at each other before turning and darting at the other robots. Raphael ducked and Shredder jumped up and used his shell as a vault. He kicked off of Raphael's shell and leapt iinto the air, rising his arms high over his head. Raph kept low and kept running. Shredder's Tekkō-Kagi pierced the FX Bot's skull as Raphael's Sai stabbed the other robot's stomach. Shredder's Tekkō-Kagi ended up cutting all the robot's head in hald and jamming deep into its chest, coating him with another spray of fake blood, while the one that Raph stabbed ended up doubling over and flopping over his arm before it was stabbed in the back of the head. Shredder kicked the robot off of his weapon and Raph threw the other one off of his arm and flicked off the excess blood that had dripped onto it. They straightened up and immediately stood back to back. Raph spun his Sais about his fingers again while Shredder clenched his fists even tighter. They eyed the FX bots as they  gazed right back. 

Almost immediately, two more FX Bots dropped down from the overhead ceiling panels, bearing the same weapons as the ones Raph and Shredder had just destroyed. Raph cursed under his breath as those two robots joined their peers in the circle. 
"They won't stop coming," Shredder muttered to him as they continued to eye the surrounding robots, "Not until we get those keys." 
"What the hell are those keys even for?!" Raph hissed, "The door doesn't have keyholes!" 
Shredder grunted, "I do not know," He replied, "But we need to focus on taking the robots out of the equasion. I do not doubt your abilities, but neither of us can fight forever. On the count of three, we will run to the nearest pillar and I will throw you up onto it. You will collect the first key and I will attempt to keep the robots off of your back." 
"And then you'll get the next key?" Raph added. 
Shredder risked glancing at him, "Can you handle the robots?" 
Raph snorted, "What happened to not doubting my abilities?"
Shredder had to fight the urge to sigh, "One."
Raph jumped when Shredder suddenly grabbed ahold of his hand. He glanced down at their hands before looking at Shredder.
"Two."
Raphael turned fully to him now. Shredder was looking around at the FX Bots opposite him, looking for an opening. Shredder hesitated before he said 'three', as if he wasn't entirely sure if his plan would work. 
"Three." 

Shredder and Raph raced forward, both towards the FX Bots and towards one of the lower pillars. Raph's pace was very forced and his leg immediately screamed in pain and protest but he pushed on and kept up with Shredder. It was either that or be dragged along by Shredder. Shredder slashed once they got close enough, catching two of the FX Bots in the chest which caused fake blood to spray over his face. Those two bots fell and Shredder guided Raph out of the ring of robots. They raced over to one of the smaller pillars. The robots rushed after them. 

When Shredder and Raph made it to the pillar, Shredder let go of Raph's hand and grabbed him by the hips. Raph couldn't even manage to open his mouth in protest before he was being thrown high up into the air. Raph shouted and quickly scrambled to grab the edge of the pillar before he fell. Shredder just barely manage to block the Katana that came swinging at him and he quickly deflected it away from his throat. Raphael risked looking down at Shredder only to see him cornered against the pillar. He slashed at the robots and ducked and blocked any weapon that came near. His movements were quick and precise and he hardly seemed to be breaking a sweat. Every single one he took down, another one would drop from the ceiling panels and join the onslaught. 
Raph quickly scrambled up onto the pillar and looked up at the pillar that had a key that was closest to him. The pillar closest to the one that he was standing on was at least ten feet away from him and was far too high to be able to jump across to. Raph immediately started to root through his belt for his Tegaki as he risked a glance down at Shredder. It wasn't looking good; the fight was endless and constant. Every robot that went down another took its place. How many robots did Stockman make, exactly?! 

Raph shook his head and looked away. He braced himself as he drew several breaths in an attempt to calm himself. He paced back until he reached the edge of the pillar and glanced down at Shredder again. Shredder's pace was still quick and his movements were still perfectly precise. Again, Raph turned away and he ran forward. He jumped.

Chapter Text

A shout escaped Shredder as the butt of a Katana slammed into his side. He returned the blow with a sharp elbow to the robot’s face which sent it to the ground in a crackle of electricity and enraged whirring of machinery. He had taken out twenty by now and they continued to pile at his feet but every one that was destroyed was replaced in an instant. They were relentless and seemingly unstoppable. 

Raphael hauled himself up onto the pillar and forced himself to stand. Breathing hard, he looked down at Shredder again, watching as the man fought like his life depended on it. The mutant managed a weak chuckle as he looked away. His eyes turned to the little glass case holding one of the four keys he needed to get the hell out of here. The glass looked thick, it was framed with gold and stood on stand made of some black metal. There was a kind of locking mechanism on the front, one that looked more like a puzzle than an actual lock. Raph sighed heavily and shook his head.

The sound of shattering glass from overhead made Shredder honestly relieved. Loud, groaning metal from above made Raph look up. One of the panels in the ceiling slid shut, leaving only three left. That sound was followed by Raph’s voice; he sounded relieved.
“I got one!” He yelled. 
Shredder was too busy ducking under a swinging Katana to respond. Clearly, he didn’t need to. Raph dropped down from the pillar, right onto the shoulders of a robot as he slammed his Sai into its head. He flipped off of it, fake blood staining his hands, just before the robot could crumble. He curled his legs around another robot’s throat and swung his entire body around to jam his Sais into the face of  another robot, sending them and him crashing to the ground. That created an opening for Shredder and Raph yelled at him to go. 
Shredder obeyed. He jumped over the pile of robots as the remaining ones quickly turned their attention to Raph. They circled the mutant quickly but he fought with the same viciousness as Shredder had.

Shredder ran to the next set of pillars. A couple of the FX Bots actually broke away to follow him and Raph was too swept up in dealing with the others to get at them. He yelled at Shredder to watch his back before ducking under a Katana that would have taken his head clean off. The robot who swung the Katana were met with a Sai to the neck, sending fake blood spewing out like a gyeser. 

When he reached the smallest pillar, Shredder kicked off of it and flipped over the heads of the FX Bots that had chosen to follow him. With a clean flick of his wrists, Shredder beheaded the two robots and they fell to their knees as blood gushed from their severed necks. Saki landed in a perfect crouch behind them and tilted his head up to watch the lifeless bodies flop to the floor. Shredder quickly picked himself up and ran back over to the pillar. He scaled it much quicker and easier than Raph did and quickly jumped to the next one. 

He was just about to pull himself up onto the second pillar when a shout rang out through the room. He whirled around, keeping himself from falling with one arm, and looked down at the battle happening below. The stitches on one of the cuts on Raph's face had been cut open, sending blood gushing down his face and blinding him in one eye. There was a broken Katana blade stuck in the wound in his leg and yet Raph didn't kneel. The mutant slashed with more feral desperation, like a cornered animal, as he used the pillar behind him to support him. A groan of annoyance escaped Shredder as he shook his head. 

Shredder kicked off of the pillar, using it as a vault to help throw him forward. He landed on the smallest pillar and rolled in order to reduce impact. He rolled onto his feet, crossed the pillar and leapt off. Shredder landed in between Raph and the FX Bots and brought his arms up to deflect the Bo staff that would have slammed right into Raph's throat if Shredder' hadn't of intervened. Shredder twisted his wrist to grab the Bo staff and yanked on it, forcing the robot to stagger closer. It was greeted with the blades of Shredder's Tekkō-Kagi slamming into its face right where its eye would be, sending fake blood spraying out. Shredder kicked the robot off of his weapon as he slashed around with his other arm, slicing the four robots on Shredder's left in the stomachs. 
Once his Tekkō-Kagi was free, Shredder slashed at the robots on his right, once more slicing them through the stomachs, before rounding on Raph. Raphael looked rough, he had a bruise forming on his arm and the blood gushing from his wounds blended with the fake blood from the robots. Shredder immediately hooked his arms around the mutant's shoulders and lifted him up. He shifted him so that he could hold the mutant with one arm and spun around. An FX Bot lunged at him, only to be met with Shredder's Tekkō-Kagi slicing across its throat. 

Shredder was barging his way through the FX Bots before the one he had just cut hit the floor and immediately ran over to where the pillar that was holding the next key was being held. Raph groaned in pain as he flopped his head onto Shredder's shoulder. 
"Shreds-" 
"I'll hold them off for as long as I can," Shredder said, "You get the other keys." 
"I can fight." Raph choked around the pain.
"No," Shredder snapped, "You can't." 
Before Raph could argue, Shredder lifted him up and tossed him onto the smallest pillar. 

Raph landed hard on his side on the pillar and gasped in pain. The mutant quickly hauled himself up, however, only to immediately regret it when pain blossomed in his face and leg. He collapsed onto his hands and knees and forced himself to crawl away from the edge of the pillar. Raph sat in the middle of the pillar and turned his attention to his leg. Tentatively, he touched the broken Katana blade, only to immediately regret it when pain sparked. He hissed and let go of the blade, holding his shaking hands either side of it as his face twisted into a wince. He couldn't see out of his right eye due to the blood oozing out of the burst stitches, which forced him to rely entirely on his left eye.
Suddenly, an FX Bot clambered up over the side of the pillar. When it saw Raph, it lunged and he yelped. 

In a blur, Raphael yanked the Katana blade out of his leg and swung it. The FX Bot fell limp in between Raph's legs and the head rolled off of the pillar, leaving a small trail of fake blood behind. Raph panted as blood gushed out of the wound in his leg. He glanced down at the small, but quickly growing, puddle of blood forming under his leg and shuddered. 
"Shit," He cursed, dropping the broken Katana blade in favour of clamping his hands over the wound, "Shit shit shit." 
Raph's mouth fell open into a silent scream as his pain continued to throb and ooze. 
"Raph!" Shredder yelled from below, "What is going on?!" 
Raph let himself have another silent scream before he grunted out a response, "Nothin'! I'm fine! I just need a sec!" 
"We are out of seconds!" Shredder yelled back, "Hurry up!" 
Raphael rolled his eyes. He pried his now blood-soaked hands away from his leg and shuffled himself over to the body of the robot he had just beheaded. 

The mutant dragged the robot closer and held it down with one hand. He slipped his hand into the hole in the neck that was made accessible once the head was removed and hooked his fingers under the chesplate. Raph planted his other hand on the robot's shoulder and held it down as he pulled and pulled on the chestplate. 
With some effort, Raph managed to tear off the chestplate, making sparks fly as wiring was ripped from their ports and blood fly from the bags bursting at the sudden force. Raphael tossed the chestplate aside, unkowingly hitting an FX Bot below in the head, and started to root through the circuits for something suitable to stop the bleeding. He settled on a large tube that looked like it was used to distribute cool air into the robot's systems and keep it cool. It was made of some plastic that let it bend easily without snapping. It would have to do. Raphael wrapped it around his leg above the wound instead of over it and tied it as tight as he could get it. Without wasting any time, Raph forced himself to stand, groaning and grunting in pain as he did so. 

Raph slipped his Tegaki onto his shaking, reddened hands as he came to a stop in the middle of the pillar. He took two quick breaths before he forced himself to run. Immediately, pain screamed through his system and Raphael staggered in his charge. He jumped, raising his hands high over his head. The blades of the Tegaki jammed into the bricks of the pillar and he let out a shout of pain when his wounded leg smacked against it. Despite this, Raph forced himself to climb. He pried one hand out of the stone, hauled himself up and slammed the blades right back in. He slowly hauled himself up, grunting and groaning in pain with every movement, kicking at the pillar in an attempt to move faster. 

Something suddenly landed on his shell and something cold and metallic wrapped around his his throat. A shout escaped Raphael as he was dragged down a little. He pressed his hands further against the pillar, digging the blades even deeper, and peered over his shoulder. An FX Bot had fallen right on top of him. It's arm curled tighter around Raph's throat as it raised a Sai high over its head. Raphael's eyes widened. He tried to shake the robot off, but it wrapped its legs around Raph's shell for extra purchase. Raph pressed his right hand even further against the pillar and slid his left hand free of his Tegaki. The robot stabbed down but Raph threw his hand back and caught it. He strained against it, a snarl crossing over his face as he tried to push the Sai away from his face. The robot tilted its head to the side as if it were made curious by Raph's resistance, and pushed harder. The Sai slowly moved closer to his eye, the blade shaking as Raph and the robot fought each other. Panic settled, but Raph kept fighting, even as his breath grew ragged and his grip actually faltered for a split second. 

A Kunai knife shot through the air and jammed right into the side of the FX Bot's head. Sparks and blood spurted from the wound. With a whirr, the robot went slack. The Sai fell from its hand and the grip of its legs around Raph's waist went slack in an instant. Raph watched it fall, stunned, before turning to look at Shredder. Shredder spared him a single glance before turning away to continue to fight the FX Bots. Raphael gawked at him for a moment. Shredder just saved his ass with a damn near impossible throw while holding off nineteen other robots all intending to kill him. 
"Damn." Raph muttered to himself as a grin crossed his lips.
Raphael slid his hand back into the Tegaki and continued climbing. 

Raphael gasped in relief when he made it to the top of the pillar and promptly collapsed. Heavy, exhausted breaths escaped him as he tried to force himself back up again. He was shaking and sweating and blood was still leaking out of his wounds. He couldn't hear his brothers yelling at him, promising that he would be alright and he just had to get up. Still shaking violently, Raph yet again forced himself to stand.

Shredder ducked under another slash and stabbed a robot in the side. Once more he had been surrounded and was now stick in a loop of ducking and dodging weapons coming from all sides and only managing to get a few swings in if he was lucky. They were quick and precise, like they were programmed to be and they were putting up a very good fight. What didn't help was the fact that every one he destroyed another would replace it. Surely there must be an end at some point, right? 
Shredder ducked under another swing and kicked the offending robot right in the chest. 

A whistle rang out through the air. Shredder and the FX Bots all paused and slowly looked up at what had made the noise. Raph was stood on top of the pillar, a grapple gun grasped in his shaking hands. He had shot the wire already and the hook had embedded itself into the tallest pillar where the second key was. Before anybody could really process what they were seeing, Raph jumped off of the pillar and swung. He folded his legs under him and stuck out his free hand, reaching out for Shredder as he swung closer. 
When Raph got close enough, Shredder jumped. His arms hooked around Raph's shoulders and Raphael's arm wrapped around his torso. The robots made a grab for him but Shredder folded his legs under himself to avoid them. They swung up to the tallest pillar, where Raph let go of the grapple gun and caught the ledge. He twisted them before they could make impact with the pillar, moving so that he took the impact instead of Shredder and he shouted in pain when he did so. Shredder expected Raph to drop him but instead he lifted him with all of his might. Shredder grabbed the pillar and hauled himself up. He sat on his knees and turned to Raph. Raph reached up with a shaky hand, offering Shredder a painful, pleading look. Shredder stared down at him for a second, astonishment in his eyes, before he grabbed Raph's hand and pulled him up. 

Raphael yet again collapsed and yet again he panted for air and gasped in pain. He sat on his hands and knees, shaking even more violently. Shredder knelt in front of him with one hand on the ground between them and the other settled on his raised thigh. 
"Raph?"
Shredder's voice made Raph snap out of the blindness that his pain caused him. It was quiet, hushed... Almost gentle. Raph slowly craned his neck up to look at Shredder. Tears, a reflex from the pain, gathered in the corners of his eyes but refused to fall. 
"We're going to get out of here," Shredder muttered to him, his tone still odd and gentle, "You are a fighter. So fight." 
Raphael stared at him. 
"When we get the keys, I will treat your wounds again," Shredder went on, "I need you to hold on until then." 
All Raph managed was a weak nod. Shredder straightened and turned away from Raph to collect the key. Raphael chose to look away and peer down at the FX Bots below. They had started to climb the pillar and their claws made little clacking sounds every time they stabbed into the stone. Raph cursed. 
"Shreds-" 
"I know," Shredder called over his shoulder.
Shredder punched the glass, shattering it, and took the key. He held it out to Raph as a second panel in the ceiling closed. Raphael took the key off of him and slipped into into the pocket in his belt that the other one was hiding in. Shredder pried Raph's grapple from the pillar and pressed the button to recall the line. 
"I will go to one of the pillars," Shredder said as he dropped the grapple gun in front of Raph, "You will go to the other. Once the panels have closed, I will deal with the robots." 

Raphael brought himself to his feet with a groan. He nodded as he picked up the grapple gun. 
"Whatever gets me outta here quicker." He grumbled. 
Shredder hummed in agreement, "The less time I must spend with you, the better." 
Despite all the pain he was in and all of the exhaustion rolling through his body, Raph smiled, "Oh, hush, you'll miss me when I'm gone." 
"Unlikely." 
Shredder raised his arm and aimed his fist at the tall pillar opposite him. He pressed a button on the side of his hand with his thumb and a cable shot out of a section in his armour beneath his Kuro Kabuto. The end of the cable unfolded into a three-pronged claw that slammed right into the pillar he was aiming at.
"Don't die on me," Shredder said, looking at Raph over his shoulder, "Alright?"
Raphael's grin didn't waver, "I know, cutie, I die, you die." 
Shredder looked away and jumped. Raphael watched him swing to the next pillar. Raphael aimed his own grapple gun at the pillar next to the one Shredder had just swung to and fired the grapple. 

Donnie couldn't watch the screen. He stopped looking at it when Raph's wounds were re-opened. His shaking hands were covering his face as he fought off tears. Mikey was hugging him from the side with his head resting on his shoulder. But he was still watching the panel. Donnie couldn't bear to see his brother hurt, even if Raph always managed to collect the most wounds in their fights because of his deathless need to jump between his brothers and a blade. No matter how many times Donnie has seen Raph hobble into the lair with a new cut or bruise or broken bone, no matter how many times Donnie has had to beg Raph to come with him to the lab to patch him up, it always hurts Donnie to see his brother in such a state. Shredder had, thankfully, not taken advantage of Raph's state but for how long will that last? Donnie didn't know where the exit of this series of traps would let them out. Raphael's and Shredder's truce will only last as long as they are in there. The second Raph and Shredder leave, Shredder would kill him and Raph could do nothing about it. He wouldn't be able to run. He may put up a fight and maybe get some good hits in, but Donnie knew he couldn't beat Shredder. 

Donnie only looked up when Mikey squeezed the shoulder he wasn't resting his head on. 
"Hey, bro." He said, "They got the keys." 
Donnie whirled around and looked at the panel. Shredder was holding Raph with one arm around his shell and another hooked under his knees. Raphael had his arms around Shredder's neck. They were stood on the shortest pillar in the left corner of the room. Raph looked shockingly calm. He had stopped shaking now that he didn't have to support himself. Shredder didn't seem all too annoyed at holding Raph. He was looking up at the now completely closed-up ceiling to make sure nothing else would jump out at them. 
Raph must have whispered something to him, as Shredder suddenly looked down at him. 

Shredder set Raph down on the ground and knelt down next to him. He rooted for his medical supplies as Raph supported himself on his forearms. His wounded leg was stretched out in front of him and his blood-covered eye was still closed.

"I have to tell you something." Raph whispered. 
Shredder hummed to indicate that he heard him, though he didn't look at him. Raphael drew in a hesitant, deep breath as his other eye fell closed. 
"I stole the blueprints for the death trap." 
Shredder paused. He slowly turned his head to look at Raph and simply stared at him stoically. Raphael could feel his eyes burning into him and drew in another shaky breath. 
"That night, when you saw me," Raph went on, talking slowly and quietly, "When... When you caught me, I lied. I did steal from you." 
"Where are you going with this, Songbird?" Shredder snarled. 
Raph jolted when he felt some kind of cloth press against the cut above his eye. He opened the one that wasn't being showered in blood. Shredder had moved to sit next to him and was using a handkerchief to dab up the excess blood. Raphael actually looked a little guilty. 
"I know what the last room is." Raph murmured. 

It took fifteen minutes for Shredder and clean up the blood and re-stitch Raph's wounds. After that, Shredder picked Raphael up and carried him behind a pillar and out of view of the camera in the far corner of the room. That camera had popped out of a little section in the wall when the maze went down so that everyone at the panel could still watch. The pillars hadn't gone down when Raph and Shredder had gotten the keys, which allowed them some privacy. They stayed in that spot doing god knows what for another fifteen minutes before they came back out again. They walked side by side, with Raph holding onto Shredder's arm to keep from falling.

They moved slowly to the door that had yet to open. Raph took out the keys that they had collected while Shredder took off the three puzzle pieces they had collected earlier. Shredder gently slid the top off of the puzzle pieces and let them drop to the floor to reveal key holes. One of them had two key holes and the rest only had one. He held it out for Raph and he inserted the keys. When the keys were in place, Shredder put the puzzle pieces back in place and turned the disc they sat in. 

A loud chunk filled the air, followed by a rumbling. Raph held Shredder tighter as the rumbling caused the ground to shake. They watched as the door slowly descended into the ground. 

The next room was the same size as the first. In the middle of the room sat a boxing ring that looked brand new. The door on the other side of the room didn't have any lock mechanism or puzzle to make it open. Instead, there was a TV screen with a little cartoon smiley face sat in the middle of it. 
"Welcome, challengers," A cheerful robotic voice filled the space as the smiley face moved in a way to make it look like it was actually speaking, "To the final room. I hope you have not been getting along, as only one of you will leave alive."
Shredder and Raphael looked at each other as Raph slowly freed his arm from Shredder's. They stared at each other stoically. They turned away from each other and stepped into the room. 
"The rules are simple," The robotic voice went on, "Enter the ring and fight. The door will not open until one of you is dead." 

Shredder and Raph climbed into the ring, with Raph ducking under the foam bars and Shredder simply vaulting over them. When they stepped into the ring, the floor immediately started glowing. Two hears appeared in opposite corners of the floor and started to thump like a real heartbeat. 
"The ring will track your heartbeats in order to avoid any trickery," The robotic voice explained, "One of you will die, or the door will not open and you both will die. Do you both understand the rules?" 
Raph and Shredder both nodded, "Yes." They said. 
An auto-generated cheering sound answered them. The face disappeared from the screen and instead showed what the camera and the people watching from the control panel saw. The camera was set facing the ring and showing a perfect view of Raph and Shredder. 

Donnie, Mikey and Leo all leant closer to the screen in the control panel as terror truly settled. Behind them, they didn't notice as Tigerclaw put his phone back in his pocket and draw his blasters. Bebop charged up the laser on his belt and Rahzar flexed his claws. Stockman grabbed an old, rusty crowbar that had been cast away in the corner and hovered over his mutant colleagues. Tigerclaw had a serious look on his face. He aimed the blasters at Donnie's and Leo's heads while he kept his attention on the screen. Every mutant watched, captivated, as Shredder drew the blades of his Tekkō-Kagi and Raph slipped his Sais from his belt. Tigerclaw wondered what was going through Raph's head to cook up to the plan that Shredder had told him about. Had he hit his head that hard or was he just batshit crazy? Whatever the outcome, Raph had made it a win-win or lose-lose situation. Tigerclaw actually grinned. The mutant was crazy, he decided, absolutely mental. He clicked off the safety.

Chapter Text

The clicking of the safety being removed made the Hamato brothers tense. Slowly, the three of them turned. Donnie and Leo were greeted with the barrel of Tigerclaw’s blasters pressing against their foreheads and Mikey’s throat was immediately grabbed by Rahzar. 
“We have a truce!” Leo roared, “What do you think you’re doing?!” 
Tigerclaw grinned evilly at him, “Master Shredder and your brother have a truce. Not us. Besides, this is apart of the plan your brother agreed to.” 
Horror struck the three brothers’ faces. 
“He would never-“
“Oh,” Tigerclaw leant closer, “But he did.” 
Leonardo looked absolutely pissed, “What did he agree to?!” 
“Once the match down there is over, I must wait five minutes. If Shredder’s heart isn’t beating before the time is out, I kill you. If he lives, you walk.” Tigerclaw explained, “Your brother’s craving for death bemuses me, but I do not question my Master.” 
Donnie’s glare darkened into something more sinister, but he chose to say nothing. He just stood there, glaring, as he slowly wrapped an arm around Mikey’s shoulders.

Shredder stared at Raphael, waiting for the mutant to move. In all honesty, Shredder feared the plan that he and the mutant before him came up with. Raph was crazy for coming up with this plan and Shredder supposed that made him just as crazy for agreeing to it. 

Raph blinked and his eyes immediately became a blinding white thanks to the nicitating membranes. Shredder found himself smirking. The plan was crazy, but this fight was going to be fun. 

Raphael charged, spinning his Sais masterfully around his fingers as he went. Shredder swung his arm, his Tekkō-Kagi ripping through the air with a sharp shwoosh, but Raph ducked under his arm. He shifted his grip on his Sai, flipping it so that the blades stuck out from the side of his fist, and made a stab for Shredder’s side. Shredder stepped back and deflected the blade with his Tekkō-Kagi. Raph was forced to one knee when his wrist was caught between the blades and were pressed against the floor. He shifted his weight onto his pinned arm and swung his leg. 
Shredder’s head snapped back from the force of the kick and he staggered back. A snarl of rage escaped the man and he quickly righted himself. He stabbed down at Raph, who rolled out of the way at the last second. 

Shredder yanked his Tekkō-Kagi out of the ground and stalked after Raph, who was just picking himself up. He broke into a sprint, diving at Raph who couldn’t dodge in time. Shredder ran right into him, sending them both crashing to the ground. Raph’s head hit the ground and he dropped his Sais as he shouted in pain. Shredder straddled the mutant, clamping one arm around his throat and he raised his other arm over his head. Raph’s left hand immediately flew to the one around his throat. He clawed at it as his face twisted into a sneer of his own. His other hand started to fumble for his Sai, feeling around blindly; Raph refused to take his eyes off of Shredder. Grinning, Shredder leant down so that their faces were inches apart. 
“This feels quite familiar to me,” Shredder rumbled in Raph’s ear, “I’ve missed the feeling of your throat in my hands.” 
Raph grunted, “Stick to the plan.” He managed to croak out.
“Let me have my fun,” Shredder muttered back, “I’ve more than indulged you, it is only fair.” 

Raph’s hand caught his Sai. He flipped it before slamming the butt of it right into Shredder’s side. Startled, Shredder let go of Raph’s neck. Raphael brought his legs up and hooked them around Shredder’s waist. With a sharp flick of his hips they both rolled. Raph tried to pin him down but Shredder grabbed his shoulders and made him roll again. 
Raphael rolled off of him and made a dive for his other Sai but Shredder hooked an arm around Raph’s neck and dragged him back against his chest. 
“What else did you steal from me?” Shredder hissed as he hooked his other arm around Raph’s waist. 
Raph wriggled under his arms, trying to squirm his wait out of Shredder’s death grip. They both were on their knees which made it difficult to move. 
“Nothin’!” Raph snapped. 
Shredder tutted in his ear, “You’ve already lied to me once. You’ll have this one and only chance to tell me the truth while keeping your fingers. What else did you steal?” 
“Nothin’!” Raph insisted. 

Before Shredder could retort, Raph swung around and made for another stab to his side. Shredder let go of Raph’s waist in favour of grasping his wrist. Raphael reached back and grabbed the blade protruding from Shredder’s shoulder plate. He then threw his upper body forward and yanked. Shredder flipped right over his shoulder and Raph twisted his arm in the man’s grip to avoid it being broken from the force. Raph shifted to sit on his ass and kicked Shredder in the side with both feet as hard as he could. The human let him go with a shout of pain. Raphael scrambled back to get some distance between him and Shredder before standing up.

Shredder picked himself up much more fluidly than Raph did. He rolled his shoulders and simply looked at the mutant. Raph flexed his fingers around his Sais as he continued to glare at the man in front of him.
He opened his mouth to speak, but cut himself off when Shredder lunged again. When he got close enough, Shredder swung his arm up. Raphael leapt back, just barely dodging the sharp blades of the Tekkō-Kagi before ducking low and lunging forward. 

Raph’s Sai sliced along the side of Shredfer’s thigh as he lunged, bringing the man to one knee as he roared in pain. Raphael twisted around and swung his other Sai; pulling the same move Shredder just tried on him a second ago. The blade cut through the strap holding Shredder’s chestplate in place with a loud, satisfying rip. It fell off of Shredder’s torso and landed on the ground beneath his legs. Raph dove forward again and raised his Sai high over his head. 

Shredder suddenly reached up sharply, moving too quick for Raph to pull away, and snatched the mutant’s wrist before he could sink his Sai into his neck. Shredder stood up as he twisted Raph’s hand with just enough force to make him bend forward with it. Raphael’s face twisted  into another snarl. Shredder simply yanked on the arm and held it against his side as he dragged the mutant closer. Raph tried to yank his arm out of Shredder’s grip but his arm didn’t budge.
“It’s now or never.” Shredder hissed, “Don’t lose your nerve.” 
Shredder let Raph go but framed it in a way to make it appear that Raph freed himself on his own. Shredder kicked him hard in the shell and he staggered back but didn’t fall and Raph ‘dropped’ his Sais from the blow. 

Raphael managed to right himself before he could fall on his ass. He ran backwards and jumped right into the barrier of the ring. It bent back from the force of his weight before flinging him forward. Raphael sprinted at him, his brows knitting together with concentration. Shredder fought with himself not to react quick enough. 
Raph pulled his arm back, holding his hand up straight as he bent his fingers, before thrusting it forward and catching Shredder in the chest. 

The feeling of the heel of Raph’s hand burying itself into his chest right over his heart didn’t hurt like Shredder expected it to. He fell back, hitting the ground hard as a cold feeling bled through his body from where the blow landed. He couldn’t move no matter how much he wanted to as the fear of his death settled in. He looked up at Raph as his vision started to blur. Black spots bled into his vision and grew bigger and bigger until Raph and his surroundings had completely disappeared.

Raphael panted, staring at Shredder as he laid motionless. The quiet thumping of the two hearts slowly bled into one. The second heartbeat was replaced with a full thrum. Raphael couldn’t take his eyes off of Shredder as he stared back with unseeing eyes. 

A childish cheer filled the air and the screen lit up with a celebratory face. 
“Opponent one has died!” The voice cheered, “Congratulations opponent two!” 
A soft chunk sounded and only then did Raph look away from Shredder. The door had opened! 

Raph quickly gathered his Sais and shoved them into his belt before rushing over to Shredder. He hooked one arm under Shredder’s torso and the other under his knees and lifted him. He held the human close against his chest as his head flopped on his shoulder. 
“What are you doing?” The screen displayed a question mark. 
“He’s a warrior,” Raph explained as he clambered over the barrier and out of the ring, “Warriors deserve a proper burial.” 
The voice hummed but made no move to stop them. 
“I truly don’t understand the living.” 

Raphael sprinted out of the room and down the steel hallway that gradually tilted upward, running as fast as his wounded leg would let him. He had five minutes to bring this bastard back to life or he would lose everything. 

After what felt like an age, Raph made it to the end of the hallway. The double doors opened for him to reveal a seemingly endless forest caked with thick mounds of snow. Raphael moved a few feet away from the doors and swept a bunch of snow out of the way with his foot to reveal the frozen grass underneath. Raph set Shredder down carefully on his back and reached up. He grabbed the Kuro Kabuto with both hands and slipped it off of Shredder’s head. Beneath the Kuro Kabuto lay a pale face littered with old burn scars.
The entire right side of Shredder’s face was covered in burns that stretched over the top back of his head and completely covered his mouth. The skin had turned purple in places where the burns did most of the damage, specifically over his mouth and around his eye. The eye in question had turned grey and the sclera had turned into an angry pinky-red. 

Raph froze for a brief moment just to look at him. He had seen the burns on his shoulder and they looked just a little less bad but he wasn’t expecting this. Raph shook his head and smacked his face. He didn’t have time to worry about how Shredder looked. Raphael placed one hand on Shredder’s chest, over his heart, and tilted his fingers up. He placed his other hand on top and laced his fingers around it. Raph started to push down on Shredder’s chest, counting as he did so. 
“One,” Raph muttered, “Two. Three. Four. Five.” 
Raphael pulled his hands away and turned to Shredder’s face. He pinched the man’s nose and gently thumbed open his mouth. He hesitated again for a second before promptly shuddering off his discomfort. This was for his brothers. 
Raph leant down and locked his lips with Shredder and blew out all of the air into his mouth. He pulled away just long enough to suck in another breath before pressing his lips against Shredder’s again and blowing it all down the man’s throat. 

Raph pulled away and went back to doing the chest compressions. 
“Come on you bastard!” Raph roared, “Wake the fuck up!” 
Raphael finished the compressions and lunged for Shredder’s face again. The quick movement made the tube Raph was using as a makeshift tourniquet burst. Raph didn’t care about the way blood continued to gush down his leg; the wound had become too deep for Shredder to really do anything. He simply let the ground beneath him turn red as he fought for Shredder’s life. 

It wasn’t until Raph had finished his fourth round of mouth-to-mouth and was about to start his fifth round of compressions did Shredder wake up. He sat bolt upright with a gasp, his eyes widening as his face twisted into pure horror. Raph flinched back, startled, before he grabbed Shredder’s face and made him look at him. Shredded stared at him, stunned. 
“Call them off!” Raph screamed at him, “You’re alive, I saved you! Call them off!” 
Shredder simply panted at him. The mutant looked terribly pale. He glanced down only to see why, he was losing quite a bit of blood. 
“Please!” Raph begged, “I held up my end of the deal!” 
Raph wobbled dangerously and he gripped Shredder tighter to keep from falling. With a shaking hand, Shredder reached for his phone and started to dial Tigerclaw’s number. He put the call on speaker and held it between him and Raph. 

Tigerclaw answered almost immediately. 
“Master?” He called patiently. 
Shredder looked Raph right in the eyes as he spoke, “Stand down. Let them go.” 
Raphael gasped in relief, shaking as tears forms in the corners of his eyes. Only then did he let himself go. He fell forward, flopping over Shredder’s lap as he let exhaustion creep over him. 
“Thank you.” Raph managed to mutter as his heavy eyelids fell shut. 
Shredder stared down at him, shock painting itself on his face, as he rested a hand on Raph’s shell. He shook him gently, but Raph didn’t stir. Shredder muttered a curse before he slid his hands under Raph’s carapace and lifted him. He set him on his side in the spot that Raph had cleared for him and knelt down next to him.
“You stupid little martyr.” Shredder said as he simply shook his head. 

Chapter Text

The soft crunching of snow underfoot blended with the sound of Shredder's breath as the clan leader wandered through the snow-bound forest. Each tree looked the same and the path had been completely hidden by the snow. The snow itself came up to Shredder's thighs. If Raph had been conscious or even strong enough to walk, he would have had much more difficulty walking than Shredder was having now. The mutant in question slumbered in Shredder's arms, cuddling close to the ninja holding him for warmth. This kind of weather was damning for for a reptilian mutant like Raph, especially without any gear to protect them. 

Shredder looked down at the mutant as he continued to move. Raphael was shivering and looked terribly pale. Whether that was from blood loss or the cold Shredder couldn't decide. Shredder had re-applied Raph's makeshift tourniquet to his leg to stop the bloodflow but it was clear that if Raphael didn't receive treatment quickly, he would die. Why he wasn't leaving the mutant to die in the snow was beyond him. Shredder chalked it up to honour. Raph had saved his life twice and Shredder concluded taking him back to his brothers payed off at least one of those debts. 

A sudden cawing made Shredder pause. He looked around, his grip tightening on the slumbering mutant in his arms. A crow perched itself on one of the tree branches of one of the trees opposite him. The crow wore a shred of red silk around its neck that mimicked a scarf.
"Shred! Shred!" It chanted in a scratchy voice only a crow could muster, "Raph! Raph!" 
The bird puffed up its chest and flapped its wings. 
"Raph! Raph!" 
Shredder squinted at the bird before his eyes widened in recognition. 
"You!" He yelled, "You're that damn crow that was with Raph when he stole from me!" 
That seemed to stroke the crow's pride; it puffed out its chest again and flapped its wings. 
"Yes! Yes!" It cheered, "Me!" 
Shredder glared up at the bird, "What do you want?!" 
"Raph hurt! Raph hurt!" The crow cawed.
"I didn't hurt him," Shredder replied, "I am taking him back to his brothers." 
The crow tilted its head as it folded its wings at its sides. It eyed Shredder, looking at him closely as if it were assessing him; trying to decide whether or not he was lying. Shredder simply stared back. The crow had slick black feathers that looked well cared for and it carried itself with a well of pride. Its evident loyalty to Raph wasn't confusing, it was intruging. Shredder had read that crows become loyal to things that have been kind to them. It was basically common knowledge. But why it was loyal to Raph was what made him so curious. What did Raph have to do to earn the loyalty of this crow?

Eventually, with a little caw, the crow hopped off of the branch and simply hovered there as the beating of its wings filled the silent air. Shredder broke his gaze with the crow to look down at Raph. Flakes of the still falling snow had started to gather on his body. Shredder frowned and quickly brushed the snow off of him. Raphael shivered in response and cuddled closer to Shredder's chest. 
"Here! Here!" The crow cawed again. 
Shredder looked back up at the crow. When he did, the crow shot off in the direction it came in. 
"Come!" It insisted. 
Shredder huffed. He looked down at Raphael again as the crow stopped on a tree ten feet away. 
"If your bird gets me killed, I will kill you, Raph." He warned. 
Shredder was answered with a sleepy huff from Raph. Shredder rolled his eyes. Without seeing a better option, Shredder followed the crow, walking hunched so that he could protect Raph from the brunt of the snow fall. 

When Shredder got close to the crow, it would dive off of the tree and fly off. It would constantly circle back to make sure the Shredder was keeping up. It kept calling Raph's name, almost as if trying to get him to awaken. Shredder doubted that he would, in truth, not in weather conditions such as this. Crows were smart creatures, known for their loyalty and grudges, so perhaps its attempts to awaken Raph were out of desperation? Shredder looked down at Raph again. He was shivering and grimacing, trying to find comfort in Shredder's warmth and he snuggled even closer to him. Shredder simply sighed. He can endure this until he gets back to his men. 

It must have gotten too cold for Raph, because, after about five minutes of Shredder stumbling around in the snow, he was startled by the mutant suddenly sinking into his shell. The motion was so sudden that Shredder almost dropped him and he ended up yanking him close against his chest to stop him from falling. Shredder stopped and shifted his grip on Raph so that he was holding him by the sides of his shell. He held him up and looked at him, visibly startled. Sure, he had seen Raph and his brothers hide limbs in their shells, even their heads on occasion, but he's never seen them go fully into their shell. It made Raph look so much smaller than he actually is and Shredder actually found himself questioning how he even fit in his shell. 
The crow's angry and impatient caw broke Shredder out of his thoughts. He looked up at the bird as he brought Raph closer to hold him against his chest. The crow had perched on a branch, peering down at Shredder with watchful eyes. It cawed again and flapped its wings impatiently. Shredder glared at the crow, but said nothing. He simply continued on. 

Shredder actually found himself feeling relieved when he finally reached the clearing in the trees. He could see the warehouse and the ground was, thankfully, covered in much thinner layers of snow. Shredder paused once he managed to free himself from the ocean of snow to kick off the snow that clung to his feet and legs and catch his breath. It was then that he heard the giant warehouse door fly open. Yelling and loud stomping feet followed and Shredder had to fight off an annoyed groan. The crow cawed loudly overhead before perching itself on the edge of the roof of the warehouse, still watching Shredder sternly. 

The Hamato brothers and the Footclan mutants all raced around the building. They all paused at the sight of Shredder, holding Raph close to his chest. Shredder simply walked closer. When he reached the Hamato Brothers he held our Raphael. 
“I believe this is yours.” He said blankly. 
Leonardo gawked at him, almost as if he couldn’t believe his eyes. 
“He is close to becoming hypothermic,” Shredder warned, “Leave him out here any longer and he will die.” 
That seemed to snap Leo back to earth. Shredder held out Raphael again, who was still tucked up in his shell. Leo grabbed him and Shredder let him go. As soon as Shredder let go, Leo buckled under Raph’s weight and dropped him. Shredder immediately lunged and caught him before he could hit the ground and yanked him back against his chest again on pure instinct. 
“You cannot take your brother’s weight?” Shredder straightened and gave Leo a quizzical look.
Leonardo flushed at the accusation. Shredder rolled his eyes. He held out Raph again and, this time, when Leo took him he held him against his chest and did his best not to crumble under his weight. 

Shredder narrowed his eyes and turned sharply on his heel. He started walking away as his exhaustion crept over him. 
“SHREDDER!” 
Shredder paused at Leonardo’s sudden outburst. He half-turned to look at him. 
“What?” He snarled. 
Leo flinched and visibly buckled under Raph’s weight again, but quickly regained his resolve and fixed Shredder with a glare. 
“What have you been doing with my brother?” Leo snapped, “What is he hiding?!?”
Shredder shrugged airily, “It wouldn’t be much of a secret if I knew of it, now would it?” 
“Stop lying to me!” Leo yelled, “If my brother had been doing anything with you then you owe me the truth!”
Shredder tutted and turned his back on him, “I owe you nothing, least of all the truth.” 

Without waiting for an answer, Shredder stormed off with his men following close behind. 
“Leo,” Donnie rushed to his brother’s side, “We have to get Raph somewhere warm, quick.” 
“Will the lair do?” Leo asked. 
Donnie shook his head, “No.
Leo turned away and started to heave himself and his brother over to the Shellraiser, “Then call April,” He grunted in effort, “See if Mr. O’Neil will let him stay until he wakes up.” 
Donnie nodded. He fished for his T-Phone as he and Mikey both followed Leo into the Shellraiser. 

Mikey sat down in his seat and Leo stumbled over to him, Raph still in his arms. 
“Watch him, okay?” Leo said as he half dropped Raph on the bench behind Mikey, “Tell me if he does anything.” 
Mikey nodded hesitantly, “Okay.” He muttered. 
Leonardo placed a hand on Mikey’s shoulder annd offered him a smile. 
“He’s gonna be fine.” He promised. 
Mikey nodded again and did his best to return the smile. Leo pulled away and moved back over to the driver’s seat. Mikey immediately fished a blanket out from under his seat that he stuffed there for cold days like this. He unfolded the poorly folded blanket and promptly threw it over Raph. Mikey then tucked the blanket under him before he patted his shell. 
“You’re gonna be okay, big bro.” He whispered, “Donnie’s gonna fix you right up.” 

The drive to April’s was painfully long. Donnie had called her and explained the situation and Kirby practically demanded they come over once he realised what had happened. Mikey spent the entire ride sat on the floor next to Raph, rubbing his shell to try and keep him warm. The mutant was shaking and shivering the entire drive. 

April was waiting outside when Leo pulled up in the alley. Leonardo heaved Raph out of the Shellraiser, while he was still bundled up in the blanket, and Donnie and Mikey rushed after him. April called the elevator for them, knowing that Leo wouldn’t make it up the stairs while carrying Raph. 
“What happened?” April practically whispered. 
Donnie sighed, “Raph and Shredder got stuck in a trap. Raph got hurt and Shredder ended up having to carry him through the forest to get back to the warehouse that the trap was in.” 
April shot him a startled but curious look. The elevator dinged before she could say anything and the doors opened. 

Kirby was stood out in the hallway, waiting for them. When he saw them, he waved them over hurriedly before ducking into the apartment. The Hamato Brothers and April rushed after him. 

Kirby’s apartment was a small two-bedroom. The living room took up most of the space, which it shared with a small kitchen. April’s room oversaw the street while Kirby’s oversaw the alley where Leo had parked. The living room was fitted with yellow and white striped wallpaper and a dark oak floor. There was a small dining table paired with a couple of chairs set near the living room window that was decorated with a vase of flowers. In the middle of the room sat a four seater couch and a coffee table that were positioned in front of a surprisingly big TV. 

Kirby guided Leo into his own bedroom. It adopted cream wallpaper and a carpeted floor of a matching colour. The bed was a double and was dressed in grey bedding, two grey pillows and a yellow cushion and a yellow throw. He had cranked up the heat in the apartment, which was noticeable from the second everyone stepped into the apartment, and had gathered every blanket hidden in said apartment. Kirby took Raph from Leo’s arms and carried him over the bed. The Hamato Brothers and April watched as Kirby buried Raph in the blankets and duvet. 
“This should hopefully keep him warm,” Kirby said, “I will sleep on the couch, but I will keep an eye on him.” 

Once Kirby was done, he straightened and turned to the mutant brothers and his daughter. They all looked worried and could hardly take their eyes off of the lump hidden in Kirby’s bed. 
“You should return home,” Kirby went on, “Your father must be worried sick.” 
Donnie nodded to indicate that he heard him. Despite their obvious hesitation, the Hamato Brothers slowly backed off. April saw them out while Kirby turned back to Raph. He sat down in the edge of the bed and rested a hand on his shell through the pile of blankets. He had wrapped him up in a way that should keep him warm but wouldn’t suffocate him or prohibit movement. 
“What have you gotten yourself into, Raphael?” He sighed softly, “Rest, you’re safe now.” 

Kirby stood up and left the room, unaware of the crow with the little red scarf perched on the windowsill. 

Chapter Text

The sound of rushing water filled the room as the bathtub slowly filled. Shredder slowly removed his armour. frowning as his muscles ached from the long evening trapped with Raphael. Once his armour and under armour was removed, Shredder let out a heavy sigh of relief. He rolled his tense, aching shoulders and allowed his eyes to close for a brief moment. 

The tub took another couple minutes to fill and, once it was full, Shredder shut off the water and climbed in. Another relieved sigh escaped Shredder as he sank against the back of the tub and allowed the warm water to flow around his shoulders. It felt heavenly after trudging around in that snowy forest. Shredder closed his eyes and rested his head against the back of the tub. This evening was a nightmare. Shredder had ordered the trap to be dismantled the second he saw Stockman, who looked about ready to implode from fear. 
The odd looks he got from his men was the most annoying part of the ride home. Shredder had chosen to ignore them for now; he was far too exhausted to care right now. 

Shredder was allowed only a few minutes of peace before he found himself thinking about Raph. He was freezing to the touch and was shaking violently eventhough he was hiding in his shell. Why hadn't he left him to freeze to death in the snow? That moment of idiocy could have cost him dearly. Now, Raph was safe and warm at home, most likely getting his wounds treated. Not like the thief really deserved it. Raphael must have gotten a good look at the plans before tackling Shredder into the damn trap as he seemed far too carefree about everything that had happened. That's most likely how he knew that the key was in the crocodile' stomach... But why would he sacrifice his own life as well as Shredder's? He must have known that you needed two people to escape, so why didn't he just throw Shredder in and be done with it? It didn't make any sense.

Shredder opened his eyes and glared at the ceiling of the bathroom. He wanted answers and right now only Raphael could give them to him. Raph had already been hiding this from his brothers, so what else could he be hiding? The stupid little martyr was a mystery. The clan leader looked down at himself and let out a hum of annoyance. As he had suspected, the fake blood had seeped through his armour and had dried on his skin. It's going to take ages to get this crap off. He hoped Raph was having as hard a time as he was getting this damn stuff off. 
"Stupid little martyr." He grumbled. 

It took Shredder over an hour to actually get some of the fake blood off of his skin and he gave up about half an hour later when the water was starting to go cold. He climbed out of the tub, annoyed, and wrapped one of the towels he got from the rack by the door around his waist. Then, he drained the bath, gathered up his armour and stormed out of the bathroom. 

Hachikō was waiting for Shredder when he entered the bedroom. He jumped up on his hind legs and pawed at his  lower stomach as his little tail wagged excitedly. 
"Good evening, Hachikō," Shredder said warmly as he affectionately petted the dog, "I trust that you are well?" 
Hachikō barked in response. Shredder nodded once. 
"Excellent." 
He moved past the dog and shut the door behind him. Hachikō trotted along after Shredder as he made his way over to the wardrobe. Shredder set his armour down on the floor next to the entrance of his wardrobe before walking into it and shutting the door behind him. Hachikō whined and pawed at the door. 
"Hachikō," Shredder called to him, "You cannot follow me everywhere. We discussed this when I first brought you home." 
Hachikō huffed. He instead turned his attention to Shredder's armour. He sniffed around at it curiously. 

Shredder huffed as he toweled himself off. He was thankful that his towel was black, as some more of the fake blood came off as he ran the towel over his body. It took him only a couple of minutes to get himself dried and dressed, but that was plenty of time for Hachikō to feed his curiosity. 
Shredder stepped out of the walk-in wardrobe, dressed in a simple grey tank top and black joggers, only to find Hachikō pawing at a specific slot in his armour. He was pawing at it relentlessly, almost desperate to see what it was. 
"Hachikō," Shredder said, "What are you doing?" 
Hachikō let out another huff. He sat down, looked up at Shredder and planted a paw on the spot of the armour he was interested in pointedly. Shredder and Hachikō stared at each other for a few moments. When Shredder didn't move, Hachikō whined. Shredder rolled his eyes and knelt down next to the dog. He slipped his hand into the little section in his armour, fully expecting it to be some dog treats he had left in there.
"You are incredibly spoiled." Shredder tutted.
Shredder's hand curled around something soft and he paused. He stared at the armour as he tried to remember what exactly he had that was soft. When his mind drew a blank, he slowly removed his hand from his armour and opened it. There, laying in his palm, were the torn up pieces of Raphael's mask. Hachikō sniffed at them curiously while Shredder simply stared. Hachikō was quick to lose interest and he walked away with a disappointed huff. Shredder ran his thumb over the fabric in his hand and hummed. Why had he grabbed this? He wasn't exactly thinking straight in the crocodile room, he was full of adrenaline and instincts had taken over. That still didn't provide a satisfactory reason to justify him grabbing this damn thing. 

Shredder stood up and crossed the room, where the fireplace lay. Hachikō hopped up into Shredder's armchair and curled up. Shredder chose not to boot him off for now. He simply took one of the matches from on top of the mantle and struck it. He cast the lit match into the fireplace and watched the fire logs quickly catch alight. Shredder stood there, holding the mask pieces close to his chest in a clenched fist, watching the fire burn. 
Shredder waited a couple minutes before he stretched out his hand and held the mask pieces over the fire. 

He didn't let it go. Instead, he pulled his hand away from the fire and opened his hand to look at the torn pieces of the mask. Shredder's brows knitted together as his annoyance bubbled. Shredder looked back at the fire again as he closed his fist around the mask. 
"It appears I have to talk to the little martyr." He muttered to himself. 
Shredder looked back at his armour, where it was still lying in a pile by the wardrobe. After looking at the mask in his hand one more time, Shredder moved back over to his armour. Raph would have to be kept warm. Shredder didn't know where the Hamato Clan were residing, unfortunately, but based on Raph's brothers' panic, he doubted it would be warm enough to keep him alive. That meant he would be somewhere else. 

Leonardo parked the Shellraiser in the garage and killed the engine. Splinter was already waiting for them by the lab doors. He had his hands folded over the head of his cane and was clutching it so tight Leo honestly thought that it might break. One by one, with Leo in the lead, the Hamato Brothers stepped out of the Shellraiser. Splinter immediately moved over to them, eyes scanning for his hot-headed son.
"Where is Raphael?" He asked. 
"We left him with Kirby," Donnie explained, "It's warmer there and he was freezing by the time he got out." 
Mikey nodded, "He had to trudge through a lotta snow." 
Splinter frowned, "Have his wounds been treated?" 
Donnie shook his head, "He went into his shell before I could do anything. We're waiting for him to wake up before I can treat him." 
Splinter's frown deepened, "Are you all alright, my sons?" He asked, looking over each one of them in turn, "You didn't get hurt, did you?" 
The trio shook their heads and that earned a sigh of relief from their father. Splinter stepped aside. 
"We shall rest for now," He said, "I will visit Raphael in the morning." 
"Can we come?" Mikey asked hopefully. 
Splinter shook his head, "No," He answered, "You will stay here. I think you boys have had more than enough excitement for this week. Go to your rooms." 
The Hamato brothers shared a glance, but they didn't argue. They walked past their father and left the lab. 

Their bedrooms took up the entire second floor of the lair and overlooked the main section of the lair. Having the entire second floor to themselves allowed for them to have big rooms. They had pentagon-shaped doorways that initially didn't have any doors in them. But, thanks to Donnie and Raph, they now had large steel doors that could be open with passcodes. Donnie was the one that did all the tech-based stuff while Raph did the metal-work and heavy lifting. Leo's room was on the far left and Donnie's was on the far right. Mikey's was next to Donnie and Raph ended up having a room between Mikey and Donnie.

Leo led the way over to their rooms, walking quickly as his head stormed. He couldn't get what Shredder had said out of his head. Raph was hiding something, but what could he be hiding? What has he been doing? If Shredder was involved then whatever Raph is wrapped up in must be really, really dangerous. The three Hamato brothers moved up the ladder to get to the second floor with Leo leading the way again. Leonardo paused outside his door, his brain still storming.
"G'night, Leo," Mikey suddenly said as he moved past him.
Leonardo paused and turned to him. Mikey offered Leo a tired but warm smile.
"Goodnight, Mikey." Leo answered. 
Mikey's smile grew. He put in his code and the door opened. Mikey waved at Leo before stepping into his room. The doors slid shut behind him.
"Raph's gonna be okay, Leo." 
Donnie turned around to face Donnie, who was stood in front of the door leading to his own room. He didn't look tired at all. In fact, he looked thoughtful.
"You're probably more worried about him then I am," Leo replied with a little shrug, "But yeah, knowing Raph, he'll be fine." 
Donnie forced a grin, "Goodnight, Leo." 
"Try to get some sleep, Donnie," Leo shot him a stern look, "Please?" 
Donatello chuckled, "I'll try not to be too loud, Leo." 
Without waiting for a response, Donnie stepped into his room and shut the door. 

Leonardo stared at his door for a moment and then looked at Mikey's. Only once he was sure Splinter wouldn't appear out of nowhere, Leo snuck over to Raph's room. The eldest Hamato son inspected the keypad next to his younger brother's room. Raph always had the hardest code to guess. Mikey's always had it set to dates. One time he had it set as Leo's birthday. Donnie's been setting his as numbers in Pi. But Raph's? What the hell could Raph's be? Out of desperation, Leo chose a date, Raph's favourite holiday, which was Halloween. The password was denied. Leonardo glared at the keypad like it not opening was an insult. 
"What are you hiding, Raph?" Leo whispered. 
Frustrated, Leo strode back over to his room. He input his code and stepped in. 

Kirby shut his book and set it down in his lap. He checked his watch. It was close to twelve o'clock at night. He hummed as he set the book down on the coffee table and stood up. He stretched and yawned, before moving over to April's bedroom. 
Kirby opened the door a crack and peered in. He could see April sleeping soundly in her bed, almost completely hidden under her duvet, with her back to him. Kirby smiled softly and quickly left, shutting the door silently behind him. He then wandered over to his own room, where the wounded turtle slept. 

Raph was exactly how Kirby had left him when he entered the bedroom. He was nothing more than a lump under a mountain of blankets. Kirby moved over to him and started to carefully pull away the blankets. He had to make sure that Raph could still breathe fine and wasn't bleeding out. Kirby set the blankets that he removed in a neat little pile by the pillows before he worked on removing the next one. 
It took a couple minutes to un-bury Raph, but when he did, Kirby found that Raphael was still completely hiding in his shell, unmoving. Kirby leant over him and rested his hand on the top of Raph's buried head. He felt warmer than earlier, which was a very good sign, but he still was fast asleep. 

Frowning, Kirby pulled his hand away and gently shook Raph. 
"Raphael?" He called softly, "I need you to wake up." 
Raph didn't respond. He didn't even move. Kirby remembered Splinter telling him that Raph was a very deep sleeper and he hoped that is the only reason he wasn't waking up right now. 
"Raphael!" Kirby called, a little louder this time, "Please, wake up. Your wounds need treatment." 
Raphael still didn't move. There was no way for Kirby to check if he was even alive, he couldn't tell whether or not he was breathing because he was in his shell and he couldn't tell if his heart was beating for the very same reason. 
"Raphael," Kirby urged, "Please, I am begging you. You must wake up." 
Still, Raph didn't move. Kirby sighed. He adjusted Raph so that he was laying in the middle of the bed before wrapping him up in the blankets again. Kirby didn't bundle him up as securely as he did before since he was getting warmer. In the case that he did wake up soon, Kirby doubted that it would be pleasent for him to wake up unable to move. 

Once Raph was all bundled up, Kirby left the room, muttering goodnight to him eventhought he doubted the turtle could actually hear him. Kirby shut the door behind him and moved back over to the living room. The couch was waiting for him with a blanket from April's wardrobe and one of the pillows from his own bed. He laid himself down and wriggled until he got comfortable. He fell asleep surprisingly quickly despite how cramped the couch was. 
Outside, heavy rain started to fall. Somewhere far off, thunder rumbled. The pattering of rain lulled Kirby into an even deeper sleep. 

Lighting boomed, awaking Raphael with a start. He gasped as he popped out of his shell. The mountain of blankets immediatetly weight him down and Raph honestly thought he was suffocating. The mutant fought with the blankets as the pattering rain grew to a roar. Thunder bellowed as Raph kicked, shoved, rolled and fought. 
A gasp of relief escaped Raphael as he finally managed to make out out of the blankets. He sat back on his knees as heavy pants escaped his open mouth. The mutant glanced around the room with wild eyes before he allowed them to fall shut. THe pain in his body was a numb ache now and he was actually warm. Lighting flashed, casting a shadow of the figure lingering outside of the window about the room. 

The sound of the window slowly sliding open made Raph jump. He whirled around, eyes snapping open. The window didn't open much. It opened just enough for a hand to slip through. The hand was holding a thin red box tied with a black ribbon. The hand set the box on the window sill and the window was shut behind it. Lighting struck again, once more lighting up the room. The man was gone. Raphael stayed still, eyes flickering between the window and the box. 

Slowly, once he was sure the man was gone, Raph shuffled to the side of the bed and slid off of it. He limped over to the window and plucked the box off of the sill. The mutant sat back down, well, more like collapsed, on the bed and carefully un-did the ribbon. Raph lifted the lid of the box to reveal his mask. The pieces had been stitched back together with black wool. Raphael set the box in his lap, took out his mask and simply held it in his hands. He ran his thumb over the neat stitches. There wasn't a single flaw in the stitching. Save for the obvious black stitches, his mask looked pretty much brand new. 
Under the mask lay a small piece of paper with writing on it. It held an address, followed with the line 'Be here at 7PM tomorrow, thief.'. The note was written in beautiful cursive that was surprisingly easy to read. Raphael found himself staring down at the note, far too stunned to speak. How the hell did Shredder find out where he was?! Why the hell does he want him to meet him at this random location? 
"Shit." Raph hissed. 
He looked at the mask in his hand and then at the box. He set the mask on the bed and plucked the note out the box. 

Raphael stood up and staggered his way over to the window. He shoved it open and peered down into the alley below. The dumpster against the opposite had its lid open. Raph promptly threw the now empty box as hard as he could. It struck the lid of the dumpster and fell in. Raphael watched the dumpster fall shut before stepping away from the window and slamming it shut. The mutant hid both the note and his mask in his belt, which had been left on the bedside table, before collapsing into bed and burying himself under the mountain of blankets left in a sloppy pile on the bed. 

Raph didn't sleep well that night, he laid awake, staring at the window from a little gap between the blankets, ready to protect  April and Kirby in case the Shredder decided to do more than just give Raph his mask back. 

Chapter Text

The light crunching of his cane against as it pierced through the thick sheet of snow was what Splinter chose to focus on. He walked down the street, feeling the sun shining down on him through the hood of his montsuki. That feeling had become alien to him after all these years hiding from the sun down in the sewers. Eighteen years avoiding humanity, spent raising his sons. This was for Raphael, Splinter reminded himself. Splinter kept his tail tightly coiled around his stomach beneath the montsuki, but he felt the overwhelming urge to swish it around in order to expel his growing anxieties. He knew Donatello had been lying to him about the severity of Raphael's wounds. What would he find when he made it to his dear friend's home? Would Splinter even be able to look Raphael in the eyes, knowing that he allowed his son to venture out that night despite the overwhelming sense to stop him? 

The gloves on his hands and the scarf that hid his face comforted Splinter in a way. They had been made by Raphael in order to both keep him warm and keep him hidden from human eyes. Raph had presented them to him when he had first started knitting. They had been his first project and were the same colour of his montsuki. That was eight years ago; their colour had faded in age and the wool was starting to frey. The memory of little ten year old Raphael nervously presenting Splinter with the garnments filled him with a prideful warmth. 

It didn't take long for Splinter to make it to Kirby's apartment. He pressed the buzzer and waited, his tail and nose twitching as his anxiety continued to pool in his stomach. Kirby answered after only a few moments of painful silence. 
"Hello?" Kirby's voice crackled through the old speaker. 
"My friend," Splinter leant closer to the speaker and spoke quietly, "It is I." 
"Yoshi," Kirby sounded relieved, "Come in." 
A loud buzz followed. Splinter grabbed the handle of the door and pulled it open. 

The entrance hall of Kirby's apartment was nothing spectacular. It was a simple room with peeling, cream-coloured wallpaper and an old wooden floor that looked ready to crumble. A section of the wall to the left of the entrance door had been filled with small letterboxes. The numbers on each letter box looked faded and old, like they had sat there for years as time slowly chipped at them. There was a door next to the sector of letter boxes, which was simply labelled with a metal plate bolted to it. 'SECURITY OFFICE' had been engraved into the metal plate. That plate looked to be the cleanest thing in the entire entrance hall. Across from the security office, sat on the wall, lay a notice board that was littered with old business cards and fliers. Everything was either torn, crumpled or were folding at the corners. The newest thing on the bulletin was a record of the pest and health inspections that happened throughout the year. The names of the inspectors, the businesses and the date and time of the check-ups had been written in pen and was barely readable. It was almost full. Opposite the door, from left to right, lay a set of stairs, an elevator that was collecting rust in the corners of the frame and a janitor's closet with a broken door handle. Splinter chose to take the elevator. He didn't trust it fully, it looked older than him, but he trusted the combination of his knees and those stairs a lot less. 

Splinter stepped into the elevator when the doors creaked open and pressed the button that would take him to Kirby's floor. The elevator groaned loudly in protest as its doors slowly creaked shut. Splinter focused on his breathing as he clutched the head of his cane. His mind was whirling with ideas in the state of which he would find his son in. He pictured broken bones, severed limbs. Donatello had downplayed the severity of it, but he had a habit of protecting his brothers from Splinter's fretting.

The elevator chunked when it reached Kirby's floor. It groaned loudly again, as if fulfilling the very duty it was made to do was a daunting task. Splinter shot out of the elevator like a bullet when the doors opened far enough for him it fit. Kirby was waiting for him in the doorway of his apartment. He smiled warmly at Splinter as he approached; Splinter was in no state of mind to return the smile.

Kirby stepped aside to let Splinter into the apartment. Splinter stepped in and got to work removing the scarf from his face and lowering the hood from ove rhis head. 
"I wish we could meet on... Happier circumstances," Kirby said as he locked the door before turning to Splinter with a small smile, "I enjoy spending time with you, my friend." 
Kirby gently took Splinter's scarf from him and moved further into the apartment to set it on the back of the couch. April was sat on the couch, a book lying in her lap. She was looking at Splinter with pity in her eyes. Splinter spared her a glance. 
"Has Raphael awoken?" Splinter asked. 
Kirby shot him a pitiful look that mimicked April's before he smoothed out his face. 
"No," Kiby said as he moved over to his bedroom, "He hasn't moved." 

Kirby opened the door for Splinter before backing away. Splinter nodded gratefully to him before stepping into the room. Kirby offered Splinter a smile that he hoped was comforting before shutting the door. 
Splinter didn't find comfort in the smile. He turned to the bed as he rested his cane against the wall by the door. Splinter eyed the bundle of blankets that lay in the middle of the bed. Splinter knew Raph was under there and he watched it for any movement; any signs that Raph was awake. Then, Splinter looked at Raph's gear. It had been piled up on the bedside table akin to the way the blankets had been piled up on the bed. Something was poking out of one of the pockets in Raph's belt. Some sliver of red fabric. 

Splinter crossed the room and grabbed the red fabric. Slowly, he pulled it from the pocket it had been stuffed into and held it up. The rat mutant stared at Raphael's mask as his lips parted slightly from shock. It was the thick, bold black stitches that captured Splinter's attention. They were hard to ignore. The idea that Raph's mask had been danaged to the point where it needed to be stitched together made Splinter's stomach twist. The mask had clearly been cut into four pieces by three long blades that reminded Splinter of Shredder's signature weapon. Shredder couldn't be involved, could he? No... Donatello wouldn't lie to that severity, right? 

Who had put the mask back together? The even and professional-looking stitchwork made Splinter think it was Raph, but he had been asleep the entire time. It could have been Kirby or April, he had not seen their stitching skills so Splinter couldn't exactly rule them out, but something deep in Splinter's being told him that it wasn't them. Splinter hoped that feeling was wrong; he rarely was. 

Splinter set the mask down on the bedside table and turned back to the bed. Splinter moved over to it and perched on the edge of it. 
"Raphael?" He called softly, reaching out to rest his hand on the bundle of blankets. 
The slight shuffle from the bundle in response to Splinter's touch made Splinter sigh shakily with relief. He withdrew his hand and called his son's name again. This time, a sleepy grumble answered. Despite how muffled it was, Splinter recognised it to be the sleepy grumble of his son. The bundle started to move even more. Splinter started to pull at the blankets in an attempt to help free his son. 

Splinter pulled off around three blankets before Raph managed to free one of his hands. He caught Splinter's wrist in a tight grip. Splinter found himself gawking at the red splotches that stained his son's dark green skin. The gut-wrenching and unmistakeable stench of both fresh and dried blood filled Splinter's nose. Fear struck him. How badly was his son hurt?! 
Raphael's grip slowly eased and he released Splinter's wrist after a moment. 
"Dad?" Raph called out in shaky Japanese. 
Splinter felt his heart hurt at the way Raphael called out for him. 
"I am right here, Raphael." Splinter returned in Japanese.
Raph only ever called Splinter 'Dad' when he was in pain or sick. It was a little, small instinct of the scared little boy buried deep in his son that came out in his most vulnerable moments. Everytime, it made Splinter's heart hurt. Raphael instead grabbed the blankets around the hole his hand was poking through and shoved them open until the entire structure of the makeshit cocoon fell apart. 

Raphael lay on his front, bundled up in his shell with only his arm sticking out. That arm quickly joined the rest of him in the shell. Raph's shell was also covered in the same red stuff that his arm was covered in. Its scent reached Splinter's nose. It didn't smell like blood even though it certainly looked like it. It did little to ease Splinter's worries. 
"Come out of your shell, Raphael," Splinter requested gently. 
The rat mutant reached out and gently raked his nails along the back of Raphael's shell, frowning at the new claw marks running along it, an action that Splinter knew eased his hotheaded son. Raphael always used to request Splinter scratch his shell like this when he was little. Whether it be when Splinter was putting him to bed or comforting him when he had a nightmare of when he was sick, it was always the first thing Raphael used to request. Now, Raphael never asked him to do it, but Splinter knew very well it did wonders to keep Raphael soothed in his weaker moments. 
"Hurts." Came Raphael's muffled reply. 
The tone Raph's voice carried made Splinter's heart break even more.
"I need you to come out of your shell Raphael," Splinter urged, "Or I cannot make the pain go away." 
Raphael didn't respond. He stayed there, letting Splinter gently rake his nails up and down his scuffed up shell.

It took a couple of minutes of Splinter's gentle caresses for Raphael to emerge. He came out of his shell slowly, like he was scared to show Splinter how hurt he was. Splinter couldn't stop the gasp of pure horror from escaping him when Raphael fully emegered. He withdrew his hand from his son's shell and covered his mouth. Raph didn't open his eyes. Splinter could only stare. Blood, Raph's blood, mixed with the splotches of red matter, covered nearly all of Raph's face. The long cuts that ran down his right eye made the state of Raphael's mask make more sense. The cuts looked like something Shredder could do but on a much larger scale. The three long gashes running over Raph's eye looked the worst. They were deep, running from his forehead, two of which cutinng through the corner of his mouth to stop at his chin. Raphael's left shoulder sported matching cuts, though they only made it half way down his arm. The one on the left side of his left thigh was angled odd, like it didn't land the way his attacker intended. Splinter eyed the tourniquet that was covered in blood and was crushed from being in Raph's shell for too long before looking at the stitches that sealed his son's wounds. The stitches looked as even and perfect as the stitches that fixed up Raph's mask. Donatello said that he couldn't treat Raphael and Splinter knew not even Raph could stitch himself so steadily... Clearly, Splinter hadn't been told the whole truth. 

Raphael slowly cracked open his eyes. His normally vibrant, expressive and practically glowing eyes were dim and filled with exhaustion. 
"Dad..." Raph muttered as tears prickled the corners of his eyes, "It hurts. Make it stop." 
Splinter couldn't look away from the state of his son. His breathing grew a little heavy as his mind whirled. Raphael closed his eyes again. 
"Dad..." Raph's voice was shaking like he was fighting off tears, "Please. It hurts a lot." 
Splinter closed his eyes and drew a deep breath. He held it for three seconds and slowly released it. When Splinter opened his eyes again, Raph was squinting at him like it was an effort to keep his eyes open.
"How does a bath sound, my son?" Splinter asked gently and he went back to running his nails along Raphael's shell, "We can get you all cleaned up while Kirby gets you something for the pain." 
"Hurts." Raph grunted again. 
"I will make you feel better, Raphael," Splinter said, fighting to keep his voice soothing and level, "But I need your co-operation. Do you have the strength to stand?" 
Raph's face twisted like he was fighting off the urge to cry, like the mere thought of standing was the worst thing in the world right now.

Despite Raph's obvious apprehension, the twisted and terrified look from Raph's face slipped away. It was replaced with the stony face that Raph had adopted when he got older. Raphael opened his eyes properly and raised his unwounded arm to bat his father's hand away. The mutant forced himself it sit up, using whatever little strength was left in him to do so. Splinter rose to his feet and stepped back.

Raphael swung his legs over the edge of the bed and pushed off of it. The second Raph put his weight on them, his legs shook. Raph only allowed himself a snarl of annoyance and pain. Splinter hovered close to him, arms extended and ready to catch him even though he knew he wouldn't be able to support his weight. Raphael edged forward, movements heavy and graceless. He moved slowly on shaky legs as his glare darkened and Splinter did nothing to force him to move faster. His wounds were clearly weighing on him but he refused to let it stop him. Raph marched on like a wounded soldier who had yet to finish the war, staggering like he weight a hundred pounds and was walking on the thinnest of stilts. Splinter followed closely, pausing only to collect his cane from where it rested. Raph raised a shaky hand to open the door. The second his hand curled around the doorknob, Raph swayed dangerously. Splinter immediately stepped closer to catch him, but Raph managed to right himself by clinging to the doorknob with both hands. He stayed there for a minute, looking down at the floor through half-lidded eyes, before he lifted his head and pushed open the door.

Kirby and April perked up when Raph stumbled through the door. They leapt to their feet in an instant and rushed over to him. Raph stopped and held onto the doorway, breathing growing heavier as sweat started to bead down his forehead.
"Hurts." Raph whispered, "Hurts everywhere." 
April shot him a pitiful look. She stood in front of him and reached to touch him. Raph flinched and she quickly dropped her hands. Kirby moved to the kitchen, presumably to get Raph something to ease the pain he's in, while April looked Raph over. 
"What do you need?" She asked. 
"Raphael needs a bath, April, he is dehydrated and overwhelmed," Splinter answered her, "Would you mind drawing him one?"
April nodded, her face growing stern and serious. She rushed off to the bathroom to draw Raph a bath. Raphael stumbled back to lean against the doorframe. He closed his eyes as his knees bent. 
"Dad," Raph muttered, "You said you'll make it stop." 
Splinter reached out and started to rake his nails up and down the side of Raph's shell again, "I will, my son, I will make the pain stop," He replied, his tone still gentle and warm, "I just need you to be patient, can you do that?" 
Raphael turned his head to look at him. The movement looked like it took nearly all of his effort to accomplish. The tired look he gave Splinter made his heart ache. Raphael stared at him as his chest heaved with his heavy breaths. He opened his mouth to say something, but chose against it. He looked away and closed his eyes. Splinter continued to gently rake his nails along Raph's shell, an action that seemed to comfort his son. 

Kirby returned to Splinter and Raph a minute later with a couple of pills in one hand and a glass of freshly-poured water in the other. Raphael eyed the pills and then the water, lookin at them the same way a dying man would look at an oasis. Kirby offered them to Raph. The mutant took the pills, his shaky hand moving slowly, and popped them into his mouth. The snatch for the water was a quick one that made Kirby leap back in surprise. Splinter frowned at the behaviour but he couldn't bring himself to yell at his son for it. Raphael threw his head back and down the water in five large gulps. he handed the now empty glass back to Kirby as he gasped in relief. 
"Thank you..." Raphael croaked out. 
Kirby nodded hesitantly as he took the glass from the wounded mutant. 

April stepped out into the hallway about five minutes later. Raph spent that time slumped against the wall, staring ahead like he was trying to keep himself awake.
"Bath's ready." She called. 
Raph perked up at that but said nothing. He forced himself off of the wall and started to stagger over to the bathroom. Splinter and Kirby followed. 

It took the combined effort of Raph, Splinter and Kirby to get Raph into the bath. When he was in the warm water a heavy sigh of relief escaped him. The mutant sank down into it, resting his head against the back of the tub as the water flowed around his shoulders. Splinter sat on the edge of the bath while Kirby ushed April out of the room. 
"Do you feel better, Raph?" Splinter asked once Kirby had shut the door. 
Raph grunted and closed his eyes. Splinter picked up the cloth that had been draped over the sink and slathered it with the bottle of body wash that had been sitting beside it. He folded it in half, dunked it into the water and rubbed the two halves together until bubbles started to form. Splinter started to gently scrub at the stains on Raphael's carapace, moving slowly and applying little pressure. 
"Hurts less." 
Splinter smiled a little, "Good," He answered, "Soon, you will feel no pain at all." 
"Promise?" Raph sounded hopeful, even though his eyes didn't open. 
Splinter nodded, "I promise." 
Despite the questions milling about in his mind, Splinter stayed silent as he gently bathed his son. He allowed himself the tiniest of smiles; this reminded him of when Raph was a tot. He used to hate bath time until Splinter managed to keep him still long enough to start scrubbing at his shell. Raph always liked it when Splinter rubbed his shell during bath time when he was little, it always calmed him down. The fact that it was working now made Splinter have to fight the urge to smile. 

Splinter leant down and pressed a small kiss to the top of Raph's head. Raph made a noise, a soft whine that rumbled from the back of his throat, but didn't pull away. Splinter continued to run the cloth over Raph's body, cleaning him carefully as if he was made of porcelain. Raphael, normally hating the mere idea of being babied, was so out of it that he simply laid there and let it happen. 

Chapter Text

Raphael allowed himself a small gasp of relief as he pressed the door shut behind him. He closed his eyes as he sank against it. A grin spread across his face as his eyes glossed over a room that would have made anyone else repulsed. The apartment was dirty, abandoned and tarnished but it was his. His little corner that might as well be heaven. 
Raph quickly set all of the locks on the door in place. Those locks were the some of the few clean things in this damn place, as it was Raph who had installed them. He had stolen them from the junk yard when it was his turn to supervise Donnie during his trips, and snuck off later that night to install them under the guise that he was watching a football game at Casey's.

Raph finally turned fully to the room and his grin widened. He was sure that, at one point, this apartment was somebody's home. Based on the size of the place, Raph would have to guess that it was some broke college kid just barely scraping by. The apartment was made up of two rooms. The majority of the space was taken up by one room, which was a combination of bedroom, living room and kitchen. The second room was a bathroom just big enough to fit a toilet, sink and a small shower that Raph had to stand sideways in to fit in. Not that it mattered, the water was shut off ages ago.

Raphael crossed the room, glancing at the torn, beaten and ready-to-collapse couch, and approached the bed. The old and rotting floorboards groaned under Raph's weight with each step. In truth, Raph was astounded that the floor hadn't caved in yet. The bed had been stripped off everything save for a mattress that looks like it should be torched. It had several springs sticking out of it and was covered in suspicous stains that Raph promised himself not to touch without a hazmat suit on. The bedframe was in decent condition but it was only a matter of time until the termites found it and decided to have a feast. 

Raph knelt down next to the bed and lowered himself down on all fours until his face was almost pressed against the rotting floor. There, sitting under the bed, sat a little leather suitcase that Raph had stolen from a dumpster two months ago. It was in near perfect condition when Raph found it. All it really needed was a clean and it was good as new. As soon as Raph laid his eyes on the suitcase, his entire face lit up in an excited smile. 
"Finally." Raph muttered to himself as he reached out for the suitcase.

"Earth to Raphael." Splinter called softly.
Raph jumped, his eyes snapping open. The smile that had spread over his face faded and he turned to look at his father. Splinter offered Raphael a small smile. 
"You fell asleep, Raphael." Splinter said as he stood up, "Did you have a pleasant dream?" 
Raph looked at him dumbly, his eyes wide. The mutant quickly shook his head. 
"Prob'ly," He muttered, "I can't remember." 
Splinter hummed. He dried his hands on one of the towels that April and left on the sink counter. 
"I want you to remain here tonight," Splinter advised as he plucked the towel from the counter, "It is still too cold and we cannot afford for you to slip into hibernation. We are fortunate enough that you awoke so quickly and I do not wish to test your fortune again." 
Raphael found himself thinking about the note that Shredder had left him and found himself wondering why Shredder wanted to meet up. There was no need for them to. Their truce ended the second Shredder's heart had starting beating again....
Staying at Kirby's would definitely make it easier to sneak out. Kirby was no ninja and April was only starting her Kunoichi training so sneaking out would be child's play. But, in the event that Kirby and or April would come to check up on him, the fact that he wasn't on bed would become painfully obvious. Curiosity pooled in Raph's stomach as he watched the lukewarm water that surrounded him.

"Raphael." 
Raph flinched at Splinter's stern one. He slowly turned his head to look at his father, his eyes wide. Splinter's own eyes widened at the sight of his son. Raphael's lips had been pulled into a slight pout, an unconscious reaction that often displayed Raph's emotions. Raph's eyes were still dim but were catching the light of his inner conflicts; he was nothing more than a hurt boy trying to be brave. For a split second, Splinter saw Raph as he was when he was a little boy, not long after he had been mutated but after his eyes had bled from black to the striking green that they are now. 
"Are you comfortable with staying here?" Splinter asked, gently lowering himself to kneel next to Raph. 
Raphael's pout slowly slipped away and he looked down at the water again. Despite the conflicts that flashed in his eyes, Raph nodded. 
"I know it hurts to be away from your brothers, my son," Splinter said, gently running his knuckle down Raph's cheek, "But it is safer for you here." 
Raph almost snorted from the irony of Splinter's words. Safer? Ha! Just last night, Shredder had slipped his hand through the window that Kirby had forgotten to lock and asked Raph to join him for a late night rendezvous. If Shedder had wanted to, he could have entered the room and killed Raph. Maybe Kirby and April too, if he felt like it. Raph could have done very little to stop him if that is what he wanted to do. Raph was alive right now because Shredder wanted something from him and that terrified him.

Raphael jolted when Splinter suddenly rested his hand on his shoulder and flinched away, whirling around to glare at Splinter. He was so engrossed in his thoughts that he hadn't even noticed that Splinter had knelt down next to him again. Startled by Raph's sudden movement, Splinter quickly withdrew his hand, muttering an apology. Raph's eyes widened slightly and he quickly returned his gaze to the water. 
“Do you need help ret-“
Raph shook his head, “No.” He said quickly, cutting Splinter off.
The mere act of saying 'no' sent a sting of pain through Raph's lips. Raphael flinched from the pain. His face twisted into a snarl, but even that sent stinging pain through his face. Splinter's face softened a little and he straightened.
Splinter nodded once, “I understand. I will... Give you some time to yourself. I be in the living room if you need me.”
Splinter quickly left the bathroom. Raph watched him go, only relaxing when he gently pulled the door shut behind him. 
The mutant allowed himself to slide into the water until his head was fully submerged. 

Shredder knew something. Knowing Shredder, he probably knew everything. How could he be so careless? Raph had been so wrapped up in keeping his family in the dark he didn't stop to think about his enemies. Who else know? Did Shredder tell anyone else, or does only he know? 
Raphael shuddered as a snarl settled itself over his face. He gripped his head in his hands. The sheer thrill of it all had blinded him. His freedom could be gone as quickly as he got it. Raphael squeezed his eyes shut and screamed his frustrations out into the water. 

Once Raphael was all screamed out, he forced himself to sit up. He slumped over the edge of the bath, chest rising and falling raggedly. Anger bled into his exhausted face as he hugged the edge of the bath. How could everything go wrong so quickly? 
Raph shook his head as he squeezed his eyes shut. The corners of Raph's eyes burned as a knot started to form in his throat.
"I-" Another pang of aching pain shot through Raph's lip, making him flinch.
The pain was just as surprising as it was annoying. Why was it hurting now when it wasn't hurting before? Maybe it did, but he just didn't take notice of it. 
With an embarrassing amount of effort, Raph hauled himself out of the bath. He leant on the edge for support as he shook the excess water from his body before he slowly guided himself out. 
For a moment, Raph simply stood on the little fluffy mat that had been placed next to the bath, staring ahead as his mind continued to wander. Just how much did Shredder know? 

Slowly, Raph turned. He edged closer to the sink, his footsteps painfully heavy, slow and shaky, and grasped it like it was his only lifeline. Raphael peeked up at himself in the mirror and almost immediately cast his eyes away. The mutant looked unnervingly pale, a sheer contrast to his usual dark skin shade, and he had heavy bags under his eyes. The three long cuts that broke apart Raph's face had swollen and bumpy that looked like they were about to burst the stitches holding them together. The skin around the stitches was darker and looked almost angry. The first one made a clean line down from his forehead and all the way to his chin, just barely missing the edge of his eye. The other two cut from his forehead, through his brow, cheek and lips before settling on his chin with the first. Raph was lucky that he got away with his eye intact let alone still with it at all! Raph felt a slight twinge of pain every time he blinked. The albeit small section of Raph's lips that had been cut through looked even more swollen than the rest of the cuts. The stitches were closer and looked much messier than the others which massively dramatised the swelling. 
Raphael found himself staring at his reflection as one hand came up to hover over the cuts on his face. His eyes were wide and his lips were parted slightly. 
Raph let his raised hand drop in favour of grasping the sink again. The cuts on his shoulder were much deeper and required much more stitches to hold together. They had swelled considerably. The cut on his leg was the messiest one out of the bunch, due to the stitches getting re-opened. Little scabs and bruises had formed either side of the wound from where the old stitches had been and the swelling of the scar almost completely swallowed the new stitching. Instead of the cut being a straight like like how it used to be, the middle of the cut had widened from the Katana blade that had re-opened the wound. Raphael shuddered at the sight of it and turned away. 

Raph snatched the towel from the rack and slowly dried himself off, careful of his wounds. When he was done, he tossed the towel back onto the rack and staggered out of the bathroom. Splinter was waiting for him. He offered his hand to Raph, but he didn't take it. Raph moved past him and practically collapsed on the couch. 
Immediately, a blanket was tossed over Raph's shoulders, making him jump and look up. April was stood over him, offering him a soft, kind smile. Raphael couldn't bring himself to return the smile.
"How are you feeling, Raph?" April asked as she placed herself on the couch next to Raph.
Raph's frustration was bubbling and he, in truth, strongly thought about telling her to take a hike. Instead, he simply nodded once to indicate that he was fine. He didn't make eye contact with her, he simply stared at the floor as he tugged the blanket tigher around himself. April's smile faltered a little and she spared a glance up at Splinter. Splinter offered her a solemn look in return.

The biting cold was an unwelcome familiarity that surrounded him. The snow fell in thick clumps, yet again blanketing New York in a blanket of white. Raphael leapt from building to building as his jagged mask tails whipped behind him in the roaring wind. A knot of fear and anticipation had settled in Raph's stomach the second he had snuck through Kirby's bedroom window. He shouldn't be doing this, and he definately shouldn't be doing this alone. This was stupid and practically asking for trouble, but Raph just couldn't turn his back on this, not when Shredder could destroy the slim chance of freedom he could get. 

It didn't take Raph long to get to the place where Shredder wanted to meet him. The address led that Shredder had given him to an apartment building that looked like it had been built only recently. The building had five floors and a small garden on the roof. 
Raphael chose to sweep off some of the snow from the little bench that was positioned opposite the stairwell and sit down. His leg was already aching and he had no intention to stand around and be unprepared for when Shredder showed up. 
Raph glanced around as he wrapped his arms tightly around himself. 
"This is a bad idea." He murmured. 
The cold nipped at him almost pointedly. Raph brought his feet up and hugged his knees to his chest in response. 

When seven o'clock hit, the door to the stairs that led into the building swung open. A Footbot stepped out, its movements perfectly silent save for the soft crunching of snow underfoot. Raphael leapt to his feet immediately, sliding his Sais free from his belt. The Footbot paused upon seeing Raph and folded its arms behind its back. Raphael aimed one of his Sais at the robot.
"Where is he?" He snarled.
The Foobot simply took a step to the side and indicated to the stairs with a simple wave of its hand. Raph's gaze flickered over to the stairwell for a brief second before his suspicious gaze returned to the Footbot. The Footbot didn't move. It simply looked at Raphael expectantly with emotionless, gleaming red eyes. 
Raph drew a deep breath as he shifted his grip on his Sais. He didn't put them away, but he let his arms fall to dangle at his sides. 
"Here goes nothin'." Raph grumbled to himself. 
Raph stepped forward. The Footbot immediately turned its back on Raphael and stepped back into the stairwell. Raph could do nothing but follow. 

The Footbot walked directly in front of Raph as they moved down the stairs. Raphael took to leaning heavily on the banister as they descended. Thankfully, the meeting place that Shredder had decided on was an apartment on the fifth floor. The Footbot led Raph to apartment 20 and positioned itself next to the door. It folded its arms behind its back again and stared at the opposing wall like it was the most interesting thing in the world. Raphael glared at the Footbot before he slowly pushed open the door. 

What Raph was met with was an apartment cast into darkness. The light from the hallway allowed Raph to make out the kitchen that took up the space to the right of the door and another door across from the kitchen that most likely led to the bathroom. Hesitantly, Raphael stepped over the threshold. He stayed in the dim light cast from the hallway and slowly, slowly, reached up for the two light switches by the door. Raphael flicked the switch closest to the front door and the apartment immediately lit up. 

The apartment was almost exactly the same as the one that Raph frequented. The only real difference was that this one was brand new. There was no furniture in the apartment, save for a single black couch pushed up against the wall in the back of the room. A single occupant was sat on the couch. Shredder. He wore his usual armour that had now been cleaned and polished. He sat in the middle of the couch, with one leg folded over the other and his arms resting on the back cushions. Shredder was staring at Raph, his mis-matched eyes cold and calculated. On the floor, next to Shredder's foot, stood a beaten-up leather suitcase that Raph had recognised immediately. 
"Close the door." Shredder said lowly. 
Raphael swallowed the knot in his throat. He reached back, not daring to take his eyes off of Shredder, and pushed the door closed. The door let out a little groan as it slowly swung shut. The click that sounded as it slipped into place in its frame felt loud and almost made Raph flinch. 

Raphael and Shredder stared at each other. Raph was frowning, no, glaring at the man before him as his hands curled into fists around his Sais. Shredder simply stared back, his gaze cold and calculating, but lacking the usual malice. 

Shredder was the first to move. In one fluid motion, he moved to one end of the couch, sliding the suitcase along with him smoothly. He settled his right arm onto the arm of it. 
"Sit," Shredder said, gesturing to the empty space next to him, "We wouldn't want you to do more damage to your leg now, do we?" 
Raphael didn't move for a moment, but the painful ache in his thigh was more than convincing. He wandered over, fighting with every fibre in his being to not limp. Shredder didn't take his eyes off of him for a second.
Raph sat himself down on the other end of the couch, trying to put as much distance away from him and Shredder as possible. He kept his Sais in his hands and a glare on his face. 
"What do you want, Shredder?" Raph snarled. 
Shredder chuckled, "Straight to the point, I see." He commented.
Raph's eyes narrowed, "I ain' in the mood for your games." 
"Oh," Shredder sounded amused, "But I am not the one playing games now, am I Raph?" 
Raphael's glare hardened at the use of his name. He was gripping his Sais so tightly that his hands were shaking now. Shredder's eyes crinkled at the corners, almost like he was smirking. 
"What do you want?" Raph snarled.
Shredder turned his head to look down at the suitcase briefly before returning his gaze to Raphael. 
"I want you to be honest with me." Shredder answered smoothly.
Raph grunted, "About?" 
Shredder turned so that his entire body was facing Raph. He set his other arm on the back of the couch again. 
"What else did you steal from me?" 
Raphael sighed heavily, "This old chestnut, huh?" 
"I know you were lying to me in the trap," Shredder replied, "Before we get down to the heart of the business I wish to discuss, I want to know that you can be honest with me." 
Raph's eyes narrowed. He and Shredder stared at each other for a long moment, neither of them daring to blink. 

Eventually, a huff of annoyance escaped Raph. He lowered his gaze to the seat between them. 
"A motorcycle." He grumbled, "One of yer Dragon Bikes." 
Shredder hummed, seemingly satisfied, and leant back slightly, "Is that all?" 
Raph drew in a deep breath, "No," He said, "I took a bunch of tools and parts. Some of 'em I gave to my brother, others I tried to sell at a pawn shop." 
"Were you successful?"
Raphael nodded, "I got a hundred dollars for everythin'." 
"Desperate for money, are we?" 
Raph chose not to respond. He continued to stare down at the space in between them. This was stupid, he never should have come here. Shredder watched him for a moment, looking at the way his shoulders hunched and his frown slipped into something more guilty.
"Where is my motorcycle?" Shredder asked. 
Raphael still refused to look at him, "You have my case, so you already have the motorcycle back," He practically spat. 
Shredder was the one who chose not to respond this time. 

Another minute of silence passed before Raph's curiosity and annoyance got the better of him. 
"Why do you have it?" He grumbled, his gaze flickering to the suitcase for a brief second. 
Shredder hummed, "Ah, yes. I have been hearing rumours about you for quite some time. A new masked vigilante known it hit hard move quick. A vigilante that preferred to work alone... What was the name, again?" 
The question was pointed. Shredder knew the name, he just wanted Raph to say it. Raph refused to. 
Shredder continued on with another thoughtful hum, "I would like to make an offer, Songbird," He said, shifting closer to Raph, "And I would also like that you take my offer into consideration." 
When Raph still didn't look at him, Shredder reached out. He grasped Raph's jaw in his hand and tilted his head up far more gently than Raph was expecting. 
"I am to presume that you have been working outside of your family's knowledge, yes?" Shredder continued simply, "And I am sure that they will not be too pleased about your... Nightly outings." 
"You've..." 
"Yes," Shredder said, "I have seen you before, in that little disguise you hid so poorly." 
Raph's shock melted into a frown, "How did you know it was me?" 
"Songbird," Shredder leant even closer as a dark chuckle escaped him again, "You can wear the most confining masks in the world, but I will always know it is you. It is in the way you carry yourself. You have yet to separate yourself from this little persona you have crafted, or it will only be a matter of time before your brothers figure it out." 
Raphael snarled at him and promptly yanked his face out of Shredder's grasp, "What do you want from me?" He sneered. 
Shredder pulled away and moved back to his end of the couch. Raph could still see the little grin that made Shredder's mis-matched eyes crinkle at the corners. 
"Oh, it is very simple, do not worry," Shredder answered, "I want you to watch." 
Raph's eyes widened slightly, "What?" 
"I want you to watch," Shredder repeated himself fluidly, "To listen. Nothing will happen in this city without you seeing or hearing about it. You will report back to me with what you find out. If the information is useful, you will be compensated." 

Raph leapt to his feet, his face thunderous now.
"What makes you think that I would ever help you?!" He yelled. 
Shredder stood up in a single, fluid motion. He took a step towards Raph as he folded his arms behind his back. 
"This little game you have been playing," Shredder said, "It is a dangerous one, but you play it anyway because you crave freedom. You're a bird in a cage wishing to fly." 
Shreder took a step closer. Raph glared up at him. Shredder took another step closer so that they were inches apart. he leant down, gently resting one hand on Raph's un-wounded shoulder. 
"Work with me, Songbird," Shredder whispered in Raph's ear, "And I will help you fly." 
A shaky breath escaped Raph. He didn't step back, but he closed his eyes as the knot formed in his throat again. 
"I won't hurt my brothers." He whispered. 
"I know," Shredder said, "When you work with me, I will not attack them, nor will any of my men. How does that sound?" 
Raphael released another shaky breath. Shredder's hand slowly slid down Raph's arm, his knuckles trailing down the smooth, cool scales. Raph shuddered as the hand went lower and lower. 

Shredder's hand slid into Raph's, gently pushing the Sai out of his grasp. The Sai clattered to the floor and Shredder shoved something else into his hand instead. Shredder then shifted his grip on Raph's hand, forcing it to close in a fist around it. 
"Return here in a week's time," Shredder whispered, "Rest, heal. Think about my offer." 
"What happens if I say no?" Raph asked, his voice shaking.
"Your secret will remain safe," Shredder said, "But it will only be a matter of time before your brothers figure you out." 
Raphael said nothing. His hand shook in Shredder's grip. 
"I will be here same time next week," Shredder said, "Consider this a down payment on my business venture." 

Shredder pulled away and moved past him. He left the apartment without looking back, slipping the door shut behind him. Raphael turned to stare at the door, his mouth falling open with heavy breaths. He looked at the beaten up suitcase and then, finally, he looked down at the small set of keys on a little ring that Shredder had forced into his hand.

Chapter Text

The Dojo was one of the larger rooms in the Hamato lair. It lay to the left of the main room, separated by a single Shoji screen door. It's stony floors were lined with old, yet mesmerisingly pristine rugs that Splinter had acquired in order to offer some form of cushioning when the Hamato Brothers trained. The lower half of the walls were made up of wood and the upper half was made from the same stone as the floor. A rack was sat in the middle of the back wall and held a large variety of weaponry; only a mere fraction of the stock that Splinter had managed to salvage. Across from this rack lay what could only be described as a shrine. There was a shelf there, its shelves left bare. The top of the shelf sat a single, framed picture in between two currently unlit candles and an old glass bowl with a chip in the rim. The picture was of a woman, settled in a chair, with a baby in her lap and a man standing at her side. 

Further to the right of the room lay a large, twisting Bonsai tree. Splinter had broken away some of the floor in order to plant the tree when he had first moved his sons to the sewers. Then, it was nothing more than a little sapling in a small, broken pot. Splinter used to always talk about the tree when his sons were growing up, explaining that their growth was like the tree and was only hindered by the confines of the situation that they found themselves in.  
Behind the tree, taking up the entire right wall, stood a Shoji screen door that separated Splinter's bedroom from the Dojo.

Leonardo drew in a deep breath and rolled his shoulders in an attempt to relax. The second Splinter had left that morning, Leo had locked himself up in the Dojo to meditate and had been in there all day. Donnie had run down to his lab the second he had made himself a coffee, muttering something to himself, and has yet to come out. Mikey had run off somewhere with his skateboard to blow off some steam.

The light lavendery scent of inscence that filled the room did nothing to soothe him. His mind worked away, replaying the night's events over and over again. Nothing seemed right. Nothing felt right. Raph had been behaving like he wasn't in danger, like it nothing more than a massive game. Leo's frown deepened as his brows knitted together. Sure, Raph never took anything seriously, but this was something else entirely. The only time he had truly panicked was when he was in the room with that giant cockroach, and that was only because of his ridiculous fear of them. Shredder hadn't panicked much, either, but Leo doubted that there were many things in this world that could make him panic. But Raph? Raph always had an extreme reaction to any and everything, so his behaviour certainly was odd. 
It was Raph who had mentioned Shredder's quiet demeanor in the past week. Sure, Leo had noticed it, they all had, but Raph was the one to actually bring it up. Leo shook his head. No, Donnie was the one to find out what the Footclan was planning. Raph bringing up Shredder's sudden quietness was nothing more than him being his state-the-obvious self.
Leo opened his eyes with a tired huff. This just wasn't making sense. Annoyed, Leo blew out the candle and inscence and stood up. He would just have to ask Raph about it later. Raph would most likely lie, but it was worth a shot, right? 

"Meditating again, Leonardo?" 
Leo jumped and whirled around. The only light in the room was coming from the now open Shoji door which illuminated a familiar figure. Said figure reached out and promptly flicked on the light. Leo winced and blinked a couple of times to adjust. Splinter waited patiently for his son to respond as he folded his arms behind his back. 
"How's Raph?" Leo muttered, wrapping his arms around himself. 
"Far more wounded than Donatello let on," Splinter replied, his tone low and laced with suspicion, "I do believe you boys are being dishonest with me." 
Leonardo flinched. He stared at the floor as his mind went back over last night's events. 
"What... What did Raph say?" He murmured. 
Splinter's eyes narrowed slightly, "Nothing as to inform me of what happened," He barely strung a sentence together." 
Leo didn't look his father in the eye. Splinter sighed softly.

Splinter moved further into the room, his cane tapping softly on the ground with each step. 
"I raised you boys to be honest," Splinter said, "And to only lie when you believe your lives or the lives of your loves ones are on jeaporady." 
Splinter lowered himself down to sit in the Seiza position next to the inscence and candle. He didn't look at his son as his eyes slipped closed. 
"Do you believe that, in telling me the truth, you are putting Raphael's life in jeaporady?" 
Leo flinched again from the slight edge in his father's tone, "N-No... No, Sensei." 
Leonardo internally cursed himself for stammering.
"Sit, Leonardo." Splinter ordered.
Not trusting his tongue, Leo sat in the Seiza position in front of his father without a word. Leo kept his gaze on the floor while Splinter simply studied him. 

"Leonardo," Splinter spoke after a minute, "I will give you this one opportunity to tell me what happened to Raphael and what it was that brought him such harm." 
Leo swallowed thickly. It was his idea to lie to Splinter, one that he was now deeply regretting. Splinter was practically psychic when it came to his sons. Lying to him was almost impossible.
"Raph... Wasn't alone in the trap." Leo practically whispered, "I... I told Donnie to lie to you." 
Splinter's eyes narrowed, "Why?" 
Leo wrapped his arms around himself, "Because... He..." 
"Say it, Leonardo." Splinter said warningly. 
Leo wanted to tell him, he really did. But how would all of this fall on Raph? If Leo tells Splinter even a little of the truth, he would have to tell him everything. He would have to tell Splinter about Raph's behaviour, about the suspicions he had. Would Splinter punish Raph for his behaviour, or is there a chance that he will be lenient because of how wounded Raph got? 
"Raph was in the trap with Shredder." Leo blurted out. 
Splinter's eyes widened as his mouth fell open, "WHAT?!?" He exploded. 
Leonardo finally lifted his head to look at his father, and he immediately wish that he hadn't. Splinter's face was the picture of pure rage that Leo has only ever seen Raph pull. That fiery, purely enraged look opened the floodgates and the words started tumbling out of Leo's mouth before he could stop himself. 
"Raph-Raph, he tackled Shredder into some giant death trap made to kill us!" He cried, running his hand over his head as he lowered his gaze to the floor yet again, "There-There was a giant roach that Shredder fought for-for him and then this giant mut-mutant- mutant alligator that-that-that Raph took on and-and it swallowed him and-" 

Splinter reached forward and rested his hand on Leo's shoulder. Leonardo snapped his head up to look at him, his panic evident. Splinter offered him a soothing smile despite the rage pooling in his gut.
"Breathe, my son," Splinter said, "Explain what happened slowly." 
Leonardo nodded. He drew in a deep breath and held it for a moment. He looked away again as he released the breath. 
"Raph got hurt from the mutant alligator in one of the traps," Leo said, "Shredder was chained to the ceiling and couldn't fight for himself." 
"Why didn't Raphael let Shredder die?" Splinter asked. 
Leo shook his head, "He couldn't, Sensei," He answered, "We all know Raph would've if he could." 
"Why couldn't he?" 
Leo sighed heavily, "For the door to open in the last trap, someone had to die. It's why if one person wanted to get out, you needed someone else to sacrifice." 
Splinter's eyes narrowed, but he didn't interrupt. Leo stayed quiet for a moment as he thought about what to say next. 
"Shredder and Raph came up with some crazy plan and had this ridiculously fake fight," Leo ran his hand over his head again, "Raph stopped Shredder's heart with this weird punch and carried him out of the trap. Then, Shredder comes out of the woods, carrying Raph like he weighed nothing!" 
Splinter's eyes widened a little, before another dark frown crossed over his face again.
"He-He just handed Raph over and-and left!" Leo's voice was shaking now, "He even told us to be quick before Raph became hypothermic!" 
Splinter hummed thoughtfully.
"What does this mean, Sensei?" Leo muttered.
Splinter eyed him for a moment before looking away, "I am unsure," He said truthfully, "Go and join your brothers. I... Must meditate on this." 
Leonardo nodded hurriedly. He picked himself up and practically ran out of the room. Splinter watched him go and sighed heavily once Leo shut the Shoji door behind him. 

Leonardo wandered through the lair, his mind storming. Mikey had come back from skating and was now watching TV in, what Mikey refers to as, the couch pit. The couch pit was a simple hexagonal shape cut into the ground that had a long couch lining three of the six sides. A large TV that Donnie had made from scratch was sat opposite the couch and was currently displaying an episode of Crognard the Barbarian. 

Leo slid into the seat next to Mikey and slumped forward. He held his head in his hands as he closed his eyes. Mikey looked at him, his smile fading a little, before turning back to the TV. 
"You good, Leo?" He asked. 
Leonardo shook his head, "No." 
"Worried about Raphie?" Mikey guessed, "It's like I said, he's gonna be all good in no time! We'll be draggin' him off his next victim before we know it!" 
That earned a slight cuckle from Leo, but the smile that it came with quickly faded. Silence passed between the two brothers, broken only by the ridiculous dialogue from Crognard the Barbarian. Mikey laughed along to some poorly-written joke that honestly made Leo cringe. 
Leo finally lifted his head out of his hands and turned to look at his baby brother.
"Hey, Mikey?" 
Mikey's eyes were glued to the TV, "Mmm-hmm?" 
"You're close with Raph, right?" 
That got Mikey to look at Leo. 
He offered Leo a confused smile, "Uh... I guess? Why'dya ask?" 
Leo sighed, "I don't know," He admitted, slumping against the back of the couch, "It's just-" He sighed again, "The things that Shredder said to Raph really rubbed me the wrong way." 
Mikey shrugged airily, "It was probably just Shredder tryin' to get under our skin 'n' drive us apart," Was his simple answer, "'Sides, Raph couldn't hide anything from us!" 
Leonardo nodded, "I... Guess you're right." He said slowly. 
Mikey's smile grew. He shuffled closer to Leo and threw his arm over his shoulders, "Hey, the new season premier of Space Heroes starts in an hour. I'll grab some snacks and we can watch it once I'm done with Crognard. How does that sound?" 
A warm smile fell upon Leo's face, "That sounds great, Mikey."
Mikey's smile, although it seemed impossible, grew. He removed his arm from around Leo's shoulders in favour of cuddling up to him. He rested his head on Leo's shoulder, who wrapped his arm around him in return. They both watched the TV together. 
"Mind filling me in?" Leo asked, a soft smile lighting up his face. 
MIkey did not mind at all. 

The moon hung high in the sky, casting a cold hue over the bright neon lights that stained New York. The cold wind whispered through the streets, making the few poor souls that dared to venture out at night pull their coats tighter around themselves. Snow started to gently ebb from the sky, falling in even thicker clumps than before. The footprints left in the already fallen snow were starting to disappear. 

A single, large building stood tall, its dark walls practically absorbing all of the light around it. It was a large, dark mansion that stuck out like a sore thumb amongst all of the domestic looking apartment buildings and houses that surrounded it. A single car pulled up, cutting two clean lines through the replanted snow on the street. It disappeared into the mansion's garage which was placed on the back of the building. 

Shredder had to refrain from sighing when the car came to a stop. He glanced at the two Footbots sat before him and had to fight the urge to sigh again. No matter where he went, the Footbots that he had constructed always insisted on following Shredder wherever he went, even if they were following from afar. Shredder hadn't programmed them to be that way at all and he kept meaning to upgrade their programming but never got around to it. 

One of the Footbots in front of him moved. It pushed open the door before getting out. It moved around to stand behind the open door and held it open for Shredder. 

Shredder didn't say a word as he left the garage. The Footbots flanked him. 
"I will be continuing my work in my quarters," Shredder said sternly, "See to it that I am not disturbed." 
The Footbots offered a single beep in confirmation. 
"I would also like for survelliance to be placed on the turtle," Shredder continued, "I want to know everything he does in regard to.. Both of his personas." 
The Footbots beeped again. 
"Leave me," Shredder ordered. 
With yet another beep, the Footbots broke away from Shredder and disappeared down adjacent hallways, leaving the Shredder alone. 

The walk to his office, Shredder found, was one that was , thankfully, uninterrupted. The Footbots acknowledged him with only a single nod and Shredder didn't encounter one of the mutants. He only allowed himself a sigh of relief when he stepped into the office and shut the door behind him. He leant against the door and ran a tired hand down his face. 

The office walls were made of polished, dark oak, the same kind that the floor were made up of. The desk itself was placed near the back of the room, settled it front of a large bookcase that was filled with books from across the world. Embedded in the wall to the right, just slightly behind the desk, sat a large casement window fitted with a black frame. The glass itself ws covered with thin metal bars that crossed over each other to make up multiple diamond shapes. The section of the wall opposite the window was also filled with a fully-stocked bookshelf. 

The middle of the room was decorated with a large rug that Shredder had bought from Japan. It was a red rug with two flowing ocean waves. Before the rug, facing the right wall, sat a large, three-seater, black leather couch that was only decorated with two red cushions sat either end. Either end of the couch sat armchairs that matched the couch. Hitched up on the wall across from the couch sat a large TV. Between that sat a small coffee table that housed a couple of grey coasters. 

Buried into the wall, directly behind the couch, sat a currently dormant fireplace that was still holding the half-burnt wood logs from last night. The room was left in utter darkness, save for the little bit of moonlight peering through the window. 

Shredder stepped further into the room, though he didn't stray far from the door. 
"I know you are there." He called, "Tell me, to what do I owe the pleasure of your presence?" 
The chair turned slowly, revealing a figure cast in shadows and moonlight. Shredder could just about make out the shape of a helmet and the shoulder of a beaten up avion jacket. The most piercing thing about the figure was the brilliant green eyes that seemed to tear right through Shredder's very soul. They were like little lights in the blackness; the only thing that Shredder could clearly make out about the man in his chair. When the figure had turned to fully face Shredder, he had the nerve to lift his legs and cross his feet over the desk. It was a bold move, one clearly meant out of blatant disrespect. Those shining eyes narrowed at Shredder's words, but their owner chose not to respond. He looked Shredder right in the eyes, something that hardly anybody dared to do.

Shredder dared a step closer. 
"Not many can say that they evaded by security," Shredder said, "You are exactly what I expected." 
"Your security is a joke," Came the scathing reply from the figure, his voice muffled slightly from the helmet he was wearing, "The guards' round-switch left a fifteen second window for me to sneak in." The figure growled, his voice gruff but muffled by his mask. 
Shredder hummed, "I will do well to upgrade my security, then. Can’t have you going unchallenged, now, can we?” He said fluidly, "I hope you aren't here to steal from me again." 
Despite the figure's obvious annoyance with Shredder, he chuckled, "Does your heart count, gorgeous?" 
Shredder stiffened, which made the figure snort with amusement. That wore Shredder's patience thin almost immediately.
"Enough with your jokes." He said sternly. 
"This will be the only time I'm goin' to say this," The figure said, his sneer returning, "I don't want your hand-outs, I don't need your help and I'm not goin' to work for you." 
Shredder chose to say nothing. The figure moved and, suddenly, the eyes disappeared with a little 'shnk'. He rose from Shredder's seat and threw something at him. 
"Stay the hell away from me." 

Shredder caught whatever was thrown at him before it could hit him in the face. He opened his hand and looked down at it. It was the keys that he had given Raph. When Shredder looked back up, the figure was gone. The only evidence that he was there ws the chair that spun ever so slightly from the figure's movements. Shredder hummed to himself as he closed his hand around the set of keys.

A thoughtful hum escaped Shredder yet again as he moved further into the room. He sat down in his chair, slightly irritated by the warmth that the figure left behind. 
“You truly are an enigma, Phoenix.” He muttered. 
With a tired huff, Shredder snapped the curtains closed over the window in favour of switching on the little lamp sat on the edge of his desk. Then, he eased the Kuro Kabuto off his head and set it down in front of him. The clan leader leant back into his seat, tilted his head back to rest against the leather as he closed his eyes. He brought his hand up to gently run his fingertips over his lips, wincing ever so slightly at the sickeningly inhuman softness of the scarred skin that ravaged them. 
Shredder’s mind wandered back to that night, back to that ridiculous plan that he honestly thought that Raph wouldn’t go through with. Nobody, not even Takeshi, Tigerclaw as he was better known as, has seen his face. To have the son of his greatest enemy not only see his face but also to actually touch him sent a shudder running through his system. Sure, it was to save his life, but it didn’t make Shredder fond of the idea in the slightest. He was vulnerable then and the only reason he got to wake up this morning was because of the turtle’s - no, Raph’s honour and respect. 
Shedder guessed that what Raph did must have  been uncomfortable for him, too, but he clearly had no issue with stepping out of his comfort zone if it meant that his brothers would be safe. 

Shredder’s hand moved to his scarred cheek, yet again wincing at the inhuman smoothness and stark warmth. He could practically feel Raph’s hands gripping his face the way he did at the forest, yelling at him after he had just dragged him out of death’s claws. Raph’s hands were cool to the touch, but also soft and smooth. He remembered how terrified Raph looked, how desperate. He remembered the way his eyes shone with fear, oh so different to the anger in his eyes from just a few minutes ago. It has been oh so long since Shredder had been touched without the barrier of clothing shielding his scars and skin. Raph had been so bold, not caring about how much discomfort it brought Shredder when he grabbed him. Even if Raph was surprisingly gentle when he grabbed him. It wasn’t the kind of touch he had grown used to. 

Another shudder raked through Shredder’s system and he withdrew his hand. He glanced at the covered up window as his hand curled into a loose fist. He forced himself to turn away after a moment and closed his eyes. 

Raphael's heart was thundering in his chest, beating against his ribs like an animal in a cage. He ran. He jumped. He flipped. He moved as fast as he could, pushing his body to the absoulte limits to get away. He expected Shredder to send his goons after him, but, so far, there was no Footbot or ugly-ass mutant in sight. The snow was the only thing that attempted to apprehend him, but Raph stormed on without so much as a flinch from the cold. His body was aching from his wounds and his muscles were begging him to stop. Raph didn’t, not until he got back to his rotting sanctuary. 

Raphael crawled through the dirty, ready-to-shatter windowsill and collapsed against the wall. He curled up, holding his head in his hands as he pressed his knees against his chest. What the hell was he thinking?!  He just burst into Shredder’s office and basically told him to fuck off and he got away with it! Away with it! The only reason he got away was because Shredder let him, because he was too amused to stop him! 
“God you’re such an idiot!” He yelled, smacking the side of his head with the heel of his hand, “What were you thinkin’?!?” 
But he wasn’t thinking, was he? He just got up and decided to give Shredder a piece of his mind. Shredder never took kindly to being spoken rudely to, yet he let Raph get away with it! 
Raph’s heart was thundering, beating so hard that it almost hurt. He grasped his chest, shaking breaths pooling out of his masked mouth, as his fingers curled into the shirt that barely fit him. He wasn’t going to lie, being around Shredder, a man so feared and powerful, was thrilling in some odd, twisted way. 

With a shake of his head, Raph hauled himself to his feet. He quickly stripped off the clothes that made up the guise of ‘Phoenix’. It was a simple outfit, black shirt, black cargo pants and boots, an aviator jacket and a motorcycle helmet. On his hands he wore gloves that he had knitted himself. They were a dark red colour. Raph had also wrapped boxing bandages around his wrists and neck in order to ensure that none of his skin could be seen. The aviator jacket had a scuffed phoenix design on the back, evidence to how old and beaten up the thing is. 

Everything, once they had been removed, was half hazardously folded and stuffed into the suitcase. The suitcase then zipped shut and was shoved under the bed. Raph picked himself up, wincing at the way his leg throbbed. Raph chose to ignore the pain. With one last glance at the suitcase, Raph fled from the dingy and dirty and rotting apartment, crawling through the window yet again. For another night, he shed the persona of ‘Phoenix’. For another night, he returned to his family. 

Chapter Text

Raph opened his eyes and was immediately met with a bright light. Wincing, Raphael rolled onto his side and closed his eyes again. What the hell was going on? 
Raphael eventually opened his eyes and stayed there for a couple of minutes, blinking slowly to make the black spots go away. 
The floor beneath Raph was cold and hard, not the warm plush bed and the mountain of blankets he had fallen asleep in. The walls were a blinding white, illuminated by small lights embedded in the equally blinding floor. Slowly, Raph forced himself to sit up, running a hand down his tired face. Raph's fingertips brushed over his cuts, which made him wince, but his face quickly smoothed out when he felt the stitches running down his mask. Raphael counted them silently as he willed his shoulders to unwind. Raph rested his other hand over his chest and drew in a deep breath. He had to calm down. Raphael lowered his hand away from his face and opened his eyes.

The mutant looked around and the frown on his face immediately morphing into a look of horror. He was back. Back in the damn death trap! Raphael scrambled to his feet, shaking as he gawked at the whiteness surrounding him. 
"Shit shit shit shit shit!" Raph cursed. 
Raph raced to the far end of the room where the trap door leading into the room sat. It was sealed shut, the exact same way that it had been when Raph fell in with Shredder. Another curse escaped Raph as he whirled around to face the other side of the room, his hands flying up to grasp his head. 

The door across the room was wide open, leading into an inky blackness. Raphael's eyes scoured the room, looking for wany sign of life. Nothing. Nobody. Raph was alone. Raphael's face twisted into a snarl.
"Shreds!" Raph roared, whirling around to face the camera, "You son of a bitch!" 
Nobody answered him, but Raph could practically feel Shredder's leering gaze watching him through the monitors. 
"When I get outta here," Raphael jabbed an accusatory finger at the camera, "And trust me, I will, Shreds! I'm gonna ram that helmet so far up your-!" 

A loud, metallic groan filled the air and Raph immediately fell silent. Raph turned back to the door, moving painfully slowly even as he lowered his arm. It felt as if any quick movement would mean death for Raph. Raphael's breath hitched when his gaze fell on open the door. Amidst the inky blackness stood two, piercing and leering red eyes that seemed to stare deep into Raph's very soul. Raph didn't move and he almost forgot to breathe. 

The eyes stared at Raph for a moment longer before their owner turned away and disappeared into the blackness. Raphael listened to their footsteps slowly fade away. Raphael glanced up at the camera. The feeling of being watched wasn't coming from the camera, it was coming from behind him. There was something else in here, something alive. Something that wasn't restrained.

A loud bang sounded suddenly and Raph shot bolt upright in bed, gasping and sweating as his eyes opened wide. The blankets fell into his lap, encasing him like a little nest. Early rays of the pale blue sky were peeking out through the open window, painting the room into an eerie glow. Raph's eyes flickered about the room, returning to the door several times before settling on the window. Raphael's hand flew to his face, his fingertips gingerly prodding at the stitches. Raph lowered his hand when a spike of pain shot through his face. 
Raph laid himself back down and shifted to lay on his stomach. A shudder racked through him and Raph immediately yanked all of the blankets back up over him again. Raphael forced himself to close his eyes as he cocooned himself in the blankets. 

Casey shuddered as he pulled his coat tighter around himself. The snow was falling in thick clumps that turned the sky a dreary grey. The hockey player was bundled up in a thick coat that his dad practically forced him into, a scarf that looked ready to be thrown away and old fingerless gloves that barely fit his hands. A beanie was barely contained over his unruly hair. 

Around him, kids were playing, laughing and giggling, as they chased each other with snowballs. Parents stood in packs dotted around the street to make sure that the kids didn't run out in front of a car. The grit that had been put on the roads early this morning had done practically nothing. Whatever cars did dare the streets when they were like this drove so slow Casey doubted getting run into one would do any damage. His footsteps seemingly disappeared behind him due to the heavy snowfall. Snow was clinging to his clothes, no matter how many times Casey brushed it off. 

After what felt like an age, Casey finally made it to April’s apartment. He pressed the buzzer for a lot longer than necessary before he took to impatiently tapping his foot. It took April all of ten seconds to answer. 
“Casey?” April’s voice crackled through the speaker, “How many times have I told you-“
“Scold me later, Red,” Casey but in hastily, “I’m here to see Raph and that’s much more important right now.” 
April sighed heavily, but she knew that Casey was right. Right now, Raph came first. The entire morning April had been hovering around him. She was there when he woke up, offering him water and asking if he wanted her to crank up the heat. She brought him comic books that she kept under her bed for when the Hamato Brothers visited and helped Raph into the living room to watch cartoons (although she could only really open the doors to help). 

April buzzed Casey in, who shoved at the door like it owed him money. Casey took the stairs two at a time and almost knocked over a poor old lady coming down the stairs with a bag of presents. Casey didn’t slow down, but he yelled an apology as he raced off. 
April was waiting for Casey in the open doorway of her apartment, looking stern but also a little worried. 
“Don’t be exciting him too much, Casey,” April warned quietly, “We’re trying to get him to rest, not go and get himself hurt again because he wanted to hang out with you.” 
Casey held up his hands in mock surrender, offering April his most dashing grin, “Read ya loud ‘n’ clear, Red, no funny business.”
April shot him a stern look, "I mean it, Casey," She said, "One of you always ends up with at least a bruise when you hang out." 
Casey scoffed, "Oh, c'mon, April! I'm just here to take care of my best bud," His grin widened, "I ain' gonna do anythin'!" 
April hummed, but stepped aside without a retort. Casey simply grinned at her as he stepped into the apartment. April rolled her eyes and shut the door behind him. 

Raph was sat on the couch with his wounded leg propped up on the seat next to him. Kirby had wrapped up his stitched-up wounds on his shoulder and leg in gauze, but had left the cuts on his face alone. Raphael looked up when he heard the door shut. He smiled, but he ended up wincing when the cuts stung from the movement. 
"Hey, Raph." Casey called, "How you feelin', buddy?" 
Raphael shrugged, "Cut up." 
Casey snorted. 
Carefully, Casey lifted Raph's stretched-out leg and sat down on the couch. Casey lowered Raph's leg so that it was resting over his own and threw his arms over the back of the couch. 
"Who fucked you up?" 
"I dunno, Case," Raph folded his arms, grinning slightly despite the pain in his lip, "Who fucked up your teeth?" 
That earned Raph a playful shove in his good shoulder. Raphael laughed.
"Seriously, man," Casey said, "Who've I gotta beat up?" 
Raphael snorted, "No-one, dumbass," He answered, "The damn thing's already dead." 
"Did you kill it?" 
"Naturally." 
Casey offered up his fist. Raphael bumped his own against Casey's. Grins broke out across Raph's and Casey's faces. Raph and Casey both turned to watch the TV. The TV was currently displaying a gory scene of a woman getting her throat bitten by some ugly-looking zombie. 
"What'cha watchin'?" 
Raph shrugged, "Zom-B: Containment Breach," He answered, "Only thing that looked interestin'." 
Casey scoffed, "The Creep's Cabin is so much better." 
Raphael rolled his eyes, "Whatever you say, Case." 

A moment of silence stretched between the two as they watched the gory scene play out before them. April could only stomach so much before she stood up and quickly scurried off to her room. Casey and Raph watched her go. Once the door shut behind her, Raph turned his attention back to the TV. Casey looked at Raph.
Casey's brows furrowed in concern as he continued to look at Raph, "C'mon, Raph," He said, "I've never seen you so fucked up before. What happened?" 
Raphael cringed at the TV, his brows twitching as his lips curled down towards a frown. When he looked at Casey, it was like a switch had been flipped.
Raph shot him a grin, "What, you worried 'bout me, Jones?" 
Casey shot him a stern look, "Raph..." 
Raph waved him off, turning his full attention to the TV, "I don't wanna get into it right now, 'kay? Let's just watch this crappy movie and I'll tell ya all about it next time." 
Casey huffed, clearly unimpressed with the answer. Despite this, he returned his full attention to the TV. 
"How long d'you think it'll take before your old man lets you outta the lair again?" 
Raphael snorted, "I'll be lucky if I get out on my thirtieth birthday with the way he was babyin' me yesterday." 
"Oh, don't worry, Raphie," Casey leant forward, grinning as he patted Raph's knee, "Your knight in shinin' armour will whisk you away from the nasty rat man." 
Raphael let out a little laugh, "And who might my knight in shinin' armour be, Case?" He asked, pushing Casey's face away. 
Casey grabbed Raphael's hand and lowered it away from his face. 
"Me, of course!" Casey chirped. 
Raphael laughed, "The only shiny thing about you is your greasey hair," He retorted, "'Sides, a hero like me doesn't need savin'! Even if I did, my knight in shinin' armour would be a hell of a lot beter than you." 
Casey gasped dramatically, clutching his chest as he pressed the back of his other hand against his forehead, "Oh, am I not good enough for you now? You wound me, Raphie!" 
Laughing, Raph shoved him, making Casey fall against the far end of the couch. 
"I said 'if', you basket case!" Raphael laughed before he raised his arms and flexed, "Just look at me, baby!" He boasted, "I'm unbeateable! I don't need no knight in shinin' armour!" 
Casey picked himself up, rubbing his arm where Raph had shoved him, "You're lucky you're in stitches, Raph." 
Raph and Casey shared a grin as Raph relaxed back against the couch. Casey threw his arms over the back of the couch again and they both turned their full attention to the TV.

The days passed by surprisingly quickly, filled with Raph and Casey laughing and terrible movies and chowing down on the snacks that April kindly brought them. Raph and Casey had offered April to join them multiple times, well, Casey invited her and Raph simply echoed his agreement, but April always refused and told them to have fun. 

Kirby arrived back home when the sun was starting to set, a smile on his face despite how red it was from the snow. April came out of her room to give her faher a hug before she helped him take off his coat. April took the coat and went to her father's room to hang it up without a word. 
"How are you feeling, Raphael?" Kirby asked as he moved over to the couch, "Better, I hope?" 
Raph nodded. Kirby's smile widened. 
"Your brothers are eager to see you, Raphael," Kirby said, "Are you ready to return home?" 
Raphael nodded again. He lifted his leg out of Casey's lap and hauled himself up off of the couch. Casey leap to his feet too, stretching his arms behind his head. 
"Cool if I hitch a ride, Mr. O'Neil?" He asked, "I wanna spend more time with my best bud before I gotta go to my hockey game." 
Kirby nodded, "Of course," He answered. 

Raphael followed Kirby and Casey out of the apartment without a word. Casey and Kirby fell into conversation about Casey's upcoming hockey game, with Kirby asking polite conversations and Casey excitedly explaining even the most finite details. Raph stayed silent, walking as quick as his wounds would allow in order to keep up. Raph found himself reaching up towards his mask again, brushing his fingers along the stitchwork, counting them silently. Raphael drew in a deep, silent breath, trying to ignore the pain that oozed through his system everytime he let his wounded leg take his weight.

When they got to the parking lot around the back of the apartment building, Casey stuck with Raph while Kirby made sure that the coast was clear. Casey had basically shoved Raph into the dark corner near the laundry room, in case somebody came through and Raph needed to hide, and positioned himself in front of him. 
"Casey-" 
Casey cut Raph off, "Let your knight in shinin' armour fulfil his duties, your royal highness." 
Raphael responded by shoving Casey sharply in the back of his shoulder, "Fulfil this, you lil' prick."
Casey stumbled forward, but he laughed as he righted himself. He turned to Raph, offering him a warm smile. Raph rolled his eyes, but he smiled anyway. 
"You're lucky you're my best mate, man," Casey said, "Or I would've beaten you up a long time ago." 
Raphael shook his head, though the grin never left his face, "You forget how badly I beat you when we first-" 
Kirby suddenly appeared in the doorway, a fatherly smile plastered all over his face, "All clear!" 
Casey and Raph followed Kirby outside without another word.

The car ride back to the Hamato Clan lair was one spent in silence. Kirby was focusing on driving while occasionally glancing at the directions that Donnie had sent him to get to the secret path he made for the vehicles. Casey took to playing a game on his phone in the shotgun seat while Raph sat curled up in the back, watching New York roll by through the tinted window. 

Leonardo paced back and forth, his fists swinging at his sides. Mikey was positioned in front of the pinball machine, his fingers flying across the buttons as he made the pinball fling around the stage. Donnie was sat on the couch, cross-legged, with his computer in his lap. His fingers worked at the keyboard almost as furiously as Mikey's worked the buttons. 

Leo's mind was a storm. He couldn't shake the fear rolling through his system, nor could he will away the anger in his father's voice from his head. Splinter sounded so angry; Leo's never seen him so angry before. What will Splinter do when Raph comes home? 
Splinter has been shut up in the Dojo all day, meditating. He had made Leo tell him everything, over and over until he couldn't look him in the eye. Splinter didn't join them for dinner that night and didn't touch the food that Mikey left for him outside his room. 
The image of Splinter looking and sounding so angry that it sent a shiver through Leo. It was so unnatural, so wrong.

Donnie glanced up at Leo from his computer, a frown on his face. Leo's brows were knitted together in concentration and his lips were twisted into a Raph-like snarl. 
"You're going to burn a hole in the floor from all that pacing you're doing." Donnie warned.
Leo didn't look at him, nor did he respond to him. He just kept pacing. 
"Leo," Donatello sighed, gently shutting his computer, "Pacing won't make them come here faster."
Leonardo still ignored him. Donnie rolled his eyes and stood up, tucking his computer under his arm. The mutant stormed off to his lab. Mikey glanced up and watched Donnie storm into the lab with a frown. He then glanced up at Leo, who still seemed completely wrapped up in what he was doing to care about his surroundings. Mikey turned back to his game without a word. 

Leo's pacing only paused when the sound of an approaching car filled the air. Mikey and Leo both looked up, turning to face the garage. The two brothers looked at each other briefly before rushing over to the garage. The arcade game, now abandoned, finished up with a flash of lights and a few beeps as the score was counted. Donnie burst out of his lab and raced across the lair to the garage, his arms pumping. 

Mikey and Leo reached the garage doors at the same time with Donnie catching up a second later. Together, the three brothers threw open the garage doors. The garage was a large space dedicated to Donnie's mechanic work. The Shellraiser and Party Wagon were lined up in their own personalised parking spaces, which Mikey had grafittied shortly after the construction of the Shellraiser. On the other side of the room was the work station. Tables lined the wall, each of them covered with parts and tools that looked like complete and utter chaos to everyone except Donnie. The far end of the room was completely left alone, save for a single computer system on a seemingly strange point in the wall. A large chunk of the centre of the wall - just big enough for the Shellraiser to fit through comfortably - was currently detached from the rest of the wall. It had been lifted up, allowing for the Hamato Brothers to see the sewers beyond their home. The wall was connected by large metal hinges that were made by mutiple other chunks of metal welded together, that were currently guiding the chunk of wall back into place. 

In the middle of the room sat Kirby's car. Kirby killed the engine and quickly climbed out. He offered the three Hamato Brothers a warm smile while Casey clambered out.
"Special delivery, boys!" Kirby announced. 
Casey opened the backseat door and offered Raph his hand. Raphael took it and allowed himself to be helped out of the car. Raph leant back against the car for support while Casey shut the door behind him. Raph turned his head to look at his brothers. Almost immediately, a wide grin, albeit a visibly tired one, crossed over Raph's face. Donnie caught the way the corner of Raph's lips twitched and the subtle wince of pain that followed the smile, which made his own quickly-forming smile falter. 
The wounds looked ugly, especially the ones that cut through Raph's face. The smiles that plastered over Raph's face faded as he watched his brothers' smiles die. Mikey's eyes grew to the size of saucers and his mouth hung open like a puppet without strings. Leo's jaw clenched and his eyes narrowed, his hands curling into fists at his sides. Donnie was the picture of concern. Raph could see his eyes flicker all over his body, silently counting the stitches that was now holding him together. The last shreds of Raph's relief faded and he looked away. Seeing his brothers looking at him like that Like he was a broken soldier, something to be pitied, made Raph feel sick. A dark look fell upon Raph's face as he pushed himself away from the car. 
"You okay, man?" Casey asked, reaching out to rest his hand on Raph's shoulder. 
Raph smacked the hand away, "Fine," He grumbled, "I'm fine." 

Without waiting for a response, Raphael stormed off, letting his annoyance and anger numb him to the aching and piercing pain shooting through his leg. Raph staggered over to his brothers. Leo averted his gaze when Raph got close, instead casting his attention to the floor. Mikey couldn't stop gawking and Donnie kept gazing at him critically. Raphael shoved his brothers out of the way and staggered painfully slow. 

It took Raph an embarrassing amount of effort to clamber up the ladder to get to his room. Thankfully, his brothers, Casey and Kirby stayed in the garage. They were most likely talking about him and that idea made Raph even angrier. 
Raph huffed with relief when he made it up the ladder. He leant on the railing for support as he made his way to his room, constantly glancing down at the garage. Leo was the first one to emerge. He simply stood in the doorway and watched as Raph approached his door. Raph looked away when he looked up at him, grimacing. Leo's eyes burned into him and Raph had to fight the urge to shudder.

When Raph made it to his room, he stood in front of the keypad and punched in the numbers. The door slid open. Raph only paused to spare a stony glance at Leo over his shoulder before storming into the room. The door shut behind him. 

Raphael's room was quite large. In the left corner on the far end of the room sat Raph's bed which is a small double bed fitted with a tiger-print blanket for a duvet and a red pillow. There was a shelf shoved between the head of the bed and a wall, which held an array of grafitti cans and a stack of comic books. Raph's skateboard was leaning against the footboard and next to it sat a beat-up beanbag so old that its red colour was starting to fade. A jack-o-lantern lamp was settled on the floor by the headboard, currently switched off. It was a gift from Casey, given to him on the first Halloween that they hung out together. Across the room to the bed sat Raph's drum set. The stool of the drum set had its seat ducttaped multiple times in order to keep its stuffing from spilling out. 
To let left, tucked into the corner by the doorway, sat a punching bag, hanging from the ceiling by a thick chain. The punching bag was probably the most beat up thing it that room. It had been ducttaped worse than the stool had. Near the punching bag lay a bench press, kept just close enough to the wall to not be in the way but far enough from the wall as for the bar to not scrape against the wall when Raph used it. The weighted discs for the bench press were lined up against the wall in order of weight. Several dumbbells, ranging from fifteen KG to fifty, were stacked up next to the discs like a little pyramid. 
On the wall above the stack of weights hung a weapons rack which currently bore several Shurikens and Kunai knives, a steel baseball bat and a Naginata spear. There was an empty spot on the rack for Raph's Sais, but Raph rarely took them out of his belt to hang them up there. There was a red workout mat sat next to the bench press that was missing a small chunk out of one corner.

To the right of the room sat Raph's small bathroom. The door was currently closed and had a toxic waste sign hanging from it. Raph stole that from the fence off of a power plant one night while hanging out with Casey. 

The familiarity of the space brought Raph a comfort he didn't know he needed. Raph's eyes glossed over the room as he slowly slid down to the floor. Raphael curled up, his face twisting as he tried to force away the knot forming in Raph's throat. His teeth dug into his bottom lip on impulse, but that made him yelp with pain and curl up even tighter around himself. Raphael hugged his knees to his chest and hid his face in the barrier that his arms made. He began to shake as his brothers' horrified, concerned and disecting looks burned into his brain. Raphael shifted, gripping the back of his head in his hands as tears gathered in the corners of his eyes. 

After a minute, Raph loosened up. He let his wounded leg stretch out in front of him while letting his wounded arm flop to the side. He reached up with his undamaged arm and gently traced the stitches running down his mask, counting them. Raph drew a deep breath as his fingertips brushed along the stitchwork holding his precious mask together. 
Raph let his head rest against the door, though he kept his eyes closed as he started to run his finegrs down the next row of stitches. Another, heavy but even, breath escaped Raph's lips and his wound up shoulders fell. A single tear rolled down Raph's cheek, but it was quickly wiped away before it could fall past his snout.

Chapter Text

The silence stretched for a while as all eyes gazed up at the door hiding the volatile, mutated warrior they all cared deeply for. Brows were crinkled with concern, some eyes shone with regret and guilt. 
Mikey was the first to move. He tore his gaze away from his older brother’s door and looked around at everyone. Donnie, while sharing the same guilty look with his brothers, had his hands clenched at his sides. He looked almost contemplative. Leo looked the most stoic, but his guilt was still clear as day. 

“So…” Mikey broke the silence as he rocked back and forth on the balls of his feet, “Who gets to go poke the bear?” 
Leo shot his baby brother a stern look, “Mikey-“
Donnie cut off his brother’s warning with a soft sigh, “I’ll go,” He said, “I need to make sure his wounds are healthy.” 
Leo turned to him, “Are you sure? Raph didn’t look all go happy.” 
Mikey snorted, “When does he?” 
That earned Mikey another stern look from Leo. 
Donnie continued on as if he had never said anything, “I’m sure, Leo,” He answered, “The last thing Raph needs right now is to feel alone.” 
Casey folded his arms behind his head, “Whatever happened must have really fuck-“ 
“Casey,” Kirby cut him off, “Language.” 
“Must have really screwed him up,” Casey corrected himself as he spared a glance at Kirby, “He just said whoever cut up his face was dead.” 
Leo, Donnie and Mikey shared a look, their lips thinning into near imperceptible lines. 
“Raph didn’t… Tell you what happened?” Donnie asked slowly. 
Casey scoffed, “No,” He said, his tone laced with bitterness, “And I’m guessin’ you won’t either?” 
Mikey opened his mouth to speak, but Leo silenced him by squeezing his shoulder. 
“That’s right,” Leo sneered, “Raph didn’t tell you for a reason.” 

Casey pushed off from Kirby’s car and stormed over to Leo. 
“What was that, Lame-O-Nardo?” 
Leo shot Casey and stern look, “You heard me.” 
Casey opened his mouth to argue, and Donnie chose that exact moment to step out of the garage. 

Donnie wandered over to his lab as the argument between Leo and Casey escalated. He moved quickly, snatching basic medical supplies from the cabinets in his lab before scurrying off to the ladder that will take him to the second floor. Donnie wrangled all of the supplies he had gathered in one arm and hoisted himself up the ladder with the other. He had grabbed some basic supplies, numbing cream, bandages and the needle and thread.

Once Donnie made it to to the second floor, he drew in a deep breath. He could still here Leo and Casey arguing downstairs, as well as Kirby's and April's ineffective attempts to mediate the situation. Donnie would have found the whole thing amusing if he didn't have more pressing matters to attend to. 
The turtle set off, his gaze fixed on his older brother's door, silently praying that Raph would actually cooperate long enough for him to check and treat his wounds. 

Donatello froze when he reached his brother's door. Looking at it now, it seemed so ominous and imposing, as if the door itself was trying to scare him away, to stop him from getting to the hot-head Donnie called a brother. Despite th knot twisting in Donnie's gut, he raised a hand and knocked lightly on the door. 
"Raph?" Donnie called. 
"Go away, Donnie." Was Raph's harsh reply, "If I wanted to be gawked at I'd sell myself to the circus." 
Donatello flinched at Raph's accusation. He pressed his hand flat against the door, fingers splayed. It was icy cold to the touch and sent a shiver through Donnie's system. 
"I didn't mean to stare like that, Raph," Donnie said gently, "I... It's just... Seeing your wounds up close..." 
Donnie trailed off, unable to find the words. There was a shift on the other side of the door, followed by a soft grunt. Embolded, Donnie spoke again. 
"Can you open the door?" He asked, "I need to make sure that your wounds have been properly treated." 
Raphael sighed heavily, but said nothing. 
"Please, Raphie?" Donnie pleaded. 
Raph grumbled at the sound of that nickname. 

The door slid open suddenly, making Donnie jump back. Raphael was stood in front of him, his arms folded over his chest and a less than impressed look plastered over his face. Donnie's gaze was immediately drawn to the three long lines that cut through his older brother's face. They made the frown that curled at his lips uneven and painful. Raphael was staring at Donnie warily, with his arms folded over his chest. Donnie had to force himself to blink. Raphael rolled his eyes. He grabbed Donnie by the arm and pulled him into his room. Raph shut the door behind him and moved past Donnie like he wasn't even there. 
"Let's get this over with," He grumbled, "I just wanna be alone." 

Raph sat down heavily on the bed and looked at Donnie expectantly. Donnie moved slowly over to Raph, his grip tightening on the medical supplies in his arms. Donnie sat down next to Raph and arranged the supplies in a somewhat neat line between them.
"What was it like down there?" Donnie asked hesitantly, glancing up at Raph. 
Raphael shook his head, "I don't wanna talk about it right now." He said, folded his arms over his chest. 
Donnie frowned slightly. He moved to the floor and knelt in front of Raph's wounded leg. 
"It'll help, y'know," He said, "Talking about it? You know you can always come to me, right?" 
That earned a sigh from Raph, "I know, Don," He muttered softly, "I... Just..." 
"Need to process?" 
"Yeah." 
 Donnie nodded, "I get it," He said, "Just, promise you'll talk to me when you’re ready?" 
Raph didn't respond. He simply stared at the wall, his arms folded securely over his chest. Donnie gently rested his hands on Raph's leg as he inspected the wound. 
"It looks healthy," He said slowly, "And the stitches are very well done." 
"Less admirin' more inspectin', doc." Raph grumbled.
Donnie chuckled, "Right, sorry." 

The entire process took a handful of minutes that dragged on agonisingly slow. Donnie inspected each stitch with care, as if he were looking for a single fray, any imperfection that could warrant him re-stitching the wounds. The wound on Raph's leg looked the most messy, probably because it was re-opened so violently. Instead of a straight, clean cut like it was initially, the centre of the wound was wider, giving it an odd shape that reminded Donnie of a narrow eye.
Donnie sat back eventually, looking perplexed and slightly annoyed. 
"The stitches will suffice for now," He said, "Shredder did a surpisingly good job." 
Raph shrugged, "He needed me alive," He replied simply, "Can't keep somebody who’s bleedin' out alive, can you?" 
Donnie simply hummed, "I'll put these supplies in your bathroom," He explained, standing up and scooping the supplies he had gathered back into his arms, "Keep your wounds clean, especially the ones on your face." 
Raph saluted. The smirk that poked at his lips sent pain shooting through his system, which made the smile immediately drop from his face. He lowered his head and stared back down at the floor. The brightness in his eyes seemed to dim a little. Donnie frowned at the sight of this, but quickly turned away. 
"I'll change the stitches next week," He went on as he moved over to the bathroom, "Then, if you're careful, we might be able to remove the stitches entirely in a month or two."
Raphael nodded again. He watched as Donnie pushed open the bathroom door with his foot before he awkwardly wrestled the cabinet under the sink open. Donnie took care in organising the supplies he had brought in the cupboard and Raph made a mental note to try and keep it tidy for a little while.

When Donnie was done, he moved back over to Raph and sat down next to him. Donnie stared at him, as if he were deciding on what to say. Raphael stared back at him, trying not to get annoyed at his little brother's gawking. 
"I'm... Sorry you had to go through all that, Raph." He said eventually, his tone soft. 
Raph looked away and closed his eyes, "It's nothin'," He said, "I'd rather it be me than you guys.”
Donnie suddenly lunged forward and threw his arms around Raph's neck. Raphael jumped as he was suddenly tackled into a tight and almost suffocating embrace. A grunt of surprise escaped Raph as his hands flew up to grasp Donnie's shoulders. 
"Don-!" 
Donnie's grip tightened, "I wish I could have tried harder to get you out of there," He muttered, "Maybe if I had, you wouldn't-" 
"Don," Raph cut him off, his voice firm, "It's okay." 
Donnie didn't respond. He held his older brother tighter, squeezing his eyes shut. Raph’s hands shook as he shifted his grip on his little brother. He held him securely against his chest, his grip unwavering even as he felt the soft prickle of tears fall onto his shoulder. 
“You’ve never been hurt like this before,” Donnie’s voice was a quiet, shaky whisper that Raph barely heard, “You-You’ve always-“
“I’ve been hurt before, Don.” Raph said softly. 
That was true. Raph’s body was littered with scars, some smaller and some larger. The most prominent, well, at least before the death trap incident, was the chip on his shell that he got when he was little. He has small scars from training on his hands and arms, a graze on his thigh from when a Purple Dragon shot at him, even a burn scar on his left wrist from a spill of boiling water the last time Leo tried to cook. 
Donnie shook his head, “No,” He practically whimpered, “Not like this. You always bounced right back. Raph, you can’t even walk right.” 

Raph closed his eyes as he gently rubbed Donnie’s shell. Donnie broke down even more, his grip tightening on his older brother as he buried his face even deeper into his shoulder. 
“I will bounce back Don,” Raph muttered to him, “I just need a lil’ longer. I’ll be runnin’ around like my tail is on fire in no time, I promise.” 
Don sat up, pushing himself out of Raph’s embrace. His eyes were shining from tears that threatened to fall and his lips were quivering in an attempt to keep from sobbing. Don pulled unwound his arms from around Raph’s shoulders and reached up. Raph flinched slightly, but he didn’t pull away. Raph closed his eyes as Donnie cradled his face in his hands. Donnie’s thumb gently moved to the wound that stretched past his lips while eyeing the way the other two tore through them. Raph shivered from the aching pain but otherwise said nothing. Donnie shook his head and dropped his hands, letting them fall into his lap.

Donnie stood up and strode out of the room, wiping his eyes with the back of his hands away. Raph watched him go as his shoulders fell. The door slammed shut behind Donnie with a force that made Raph flinch. For a split second, he was back in the trap, fighting for his life with Shredder as the doors slammed shut behind him and sealed his chance of escape. Raphael closed his eyes and turned away. He covered his face with his hands and moved to lie down on his side. He curled up, tucking his legs beneath him. He stayed like that, letting the shedding tears pool in the palms of his hands as he recounted the evening. 
Eventually, Raph rolled onto his stomach and buried himself in his shell. 

The Shredder ducked under the swinging Bo staff, his own twirling fluidly in his grasp. The man lunged at the Footbot before him, his grip shifting around the staff. The Shredder swung and the Footbot stepped back just in time. The Footbot attempted to jam the Bo staff in Shredder's side, but Shredder’s hand shot out and caught the staff, successfully stopping it in its tracks. 
He was dressed in a pair of black pants and a tight, form-fitting black shirt with long sleeves. He wore his Kuro Kabuto over his head and had his hands and feet wrapped up in training bandages.

Shredder tilted his head up and glared at the Footbot before him. His eyes had dark circles under his eyes, an indication of how well he slept last night. His brain had been filled with memories, recounting and recalling; studying. He had laid in bed all night, staring up at the ceiling as every single second of his time in the death trap went over his mind. He wasn’t afraid, not at all. He knew he was going to get out. It was other aspects that had unnerved him.

The Footbot suddenly twisted its body. Its leg came flying at Shredder’s head. Shredder dropped the bo staff and ducked under the wing. He swung the bo staff in a wide arc, catching the robot in the side with a soft ‘thnk’. The Footbot staggered and dropped the bo staff. Shredder straightened, raised the bo staff and slammed it into the Footbot’s head. The motion sent a jolt of pain shooting through his back, making him wince and falter slightly. The Footbot fell hard and crashed to the floor. Shredder dropped his own bo staff and walked out of the training room. Shredder’s hand moved to tentatively prod at his back, right where the pain occurred. The skin throbbed the second it was touched, even though it wasn’t touched directly. Shredder grumbled and dropped his hand, his hands curling into fists. 
“Stupid little martyr.” He hissed.

Chapter Text

Shredder strode down the hallway, his clenched fists swinging at his sides. His mismatched eyes were narrowed and dark; beneath the stoic Kuro Kabuto lay a twisted, heart-stopping snarl.

When Shredder made it to his private quarters, he allowed himself a moment to breathe. He stood as still as a statue, his tense shoulders shaking with frustration as he scanned the room.

Hachikō perked up from his spot on Shredder’s bed. His tail immediately started wagging upon seeing Shredder. The Akita Inu hopped off of the bed and wandered over to the human, his tail a little whirlwind of its own. 
Hachikō sat down at Shredder’s feet and pawed at his foot, as soft whine escaping him. Shredder looked down at him. 
“Good evening, Hachikō,” Shredder said, his voice clipped, “I trust the day has treated you well?” 
Hachikō let out a little bark in response. Shredder nodded curtly. 
“Excellent,” He said, his voice heavy, “I will be going out for a little bit this evening. Will you be alright?” 
Hachikō barked again. Shredder smiled slightly and patted Hachikō’s head. 
“Then you will behave?” 
Another little bark was Hachikō’s answer, followed by a happy wag of his tail. Shredder gave him a little scratch behind the ears and moved past him without another word. 

A few minutes later, Shredder left his private quarters, clad head to toe in his armour. It had been polished and repaired; it looked as if it hadn’t been damaged in the first place. The walk to the throne room was spent in silence, leaving Shredder alone with his thoughts. The candlelight flickered overhead, their flames illuminating the man that stalked along the long, cold hallways. 
The fire danced in his eyes as he yet again found himself recounting the events in the death trap. He found himself thinking of Raph, fighting with the very mechanics of the room just to spare Shredder a few more seconds to get through the first room. Raph’s laughter echoed through his mind as he was reminded of the mutant’s carefree attitude and careless attitude towards the threats of death every room brought. He remembered the fear, the horror that made the seemingly fearless but impossibly strong turtle freeze up in utter terror.
Shredder shook his head as he rounded the corner. The quicker he got Raph out of his head, the better. 

Shredder continued down the long, dark hallways of the place he called home. The Footbots he passed bowed their heads in respect; Shredder didn't return the favour. His mind was focused on his destination. The garage, thankfully, was free of any personnel, synthetic or otherwise, when Shredder arrived. The space was only taken up by the cars and motorcycles waiting in their respective spots. The garage itself was large, probably big enough to be a house in itself. Half of it was dedicated to the vehicles - cars, motorcycles, vans, you name it. The other half was dedicated to creating or repairing vehicles. 

The walls were painted a dull, mind-numbing grey colour that matched the stone floor. Eight  fluorescent lights hung from the ceiling, bathing the room, vehicles and equipment in a cold and heartless light. 

Shredder moved to the far end of the garage, where a specific motorcycle lay. It was the Dragon Chopper that Raph had stolen from him. How he had managed to steal it was beyond Shredder. Nobody even realised it was stolen until the Footbots did their daily stock check the next morning. As much as Shredder hated the fact that he had been robbed so easily, he had to commend the mutant’s thieving abilities. 

The Dragon Chopper was of Shredder’s own design. The Choppers were much thinner than the average motorcycle, designed for speed and control. The seat itself was designed with a high back, its leather padding backed with a layer of bulletproof metal that was designed to protect the driver. The back of the seat was moulded to the frame of the back wheel. The back wheel was much larger than the front; both were made with a synthetic rubber that was much harder to penetrate. Thin spikes stretched form the frame of the wheel, designed to look like the spikes on a dragon’s back. The engine was fitted under the seat, again relatively simple, made with a much lighter metal with an impressive cooling system. The main body of the motorcycle took up a dragon’s head. It was sleek and black like the rest of the motorcycle and gave the motorcycle the appearance of a dragon. The metal beams that attached the wheels to the motorcycle mimicked dragon claws. The head of the dragon was glaring, with an open mouth, where the motorcycle’s headlights hid, and red glaring eyes. The handlebars of the motorcycle jutted out from the dragon’s nape in a way that looked almost painful. 
From behind the seat sat a thin shoot of steel, from which the Footclan banner hung proud. 

Raph had made some ‘modifications’ to the bike. He had completely removed the Footclan banner and instead replaced it with a simple strip of red fabric. Raph had also spray painted a red streak over the head of the motorcycle. Shredder glared at the crude modifications. They were simple fixes, a new banner and a good clean and it’ll come right out. But it’s the disrespect of somebody taking his motorcycle from his own home and changing it is what enraged him. 
Shredder had found it where Raph left it, hidden beneath a tarp in the alley next to the apartment building he hid his disguise in. That was another insult, hiding something that was his in a filthy place such as that. 

Raph had the Dragon Chopper for about a week before the death trap incident took place. He probably couldn’t risk using Hamato Clan technology while he was off running around as Phoenix, but why steal from Shredder? Did he think that he wouldn’t chase it? Did he that that he would move on, knowing that somebody stole from him with such ease? It was an embarrassment, one that Shredder would deal with accordingly. 

Shredder reached out and ran his fingers along the spray-painted red streak. He pulled his fingers away, eyeing the red paint that came off from the simple swipe. Immediately, Shredder was reminded of the little war Raph had started in the death trap with the FX Bots. It irritable itching of the fake blood as it dried on his skin crawled over his body for a brief moment, followed by a deep sense of irritation as Shredder remembered how difficult it was to scrub even the smallest amount of the stuff off of himself. 

A grumble escaped Shredder’s throat as he turned his back on the Dragon Chopper. He’ll have to have a Footbot clean it up and check for any damages, despite the fact that Shredder didn’t find a single scratch on it when he did his own inspection yesterday. 

The soft shift of fabric made Shredder turn. A Footbot was walking over to him, its arms still at its sides. It bowed deeply when it reached Shredder as if it were a knight greeting its king. 
“Speak,” Shredder ordered. 
The Footbots responded with a series of beeps that would have sounded like complete and utter nonsense if you hadn’t been taught the language. Shredder listened intently, his gaze locked with the robot’s as he took in every detail. 
“How did you lose a car?” Shredder growled, “You had one, very simple objective.” 
The Footbot sounded almost defeated when it replied, like a child who got in trouble for misbehaving. The response earned a sigh from Shredder. 
“It disappeared in a dead-end alley,” He repeated, pinching the armour over the bridge of his nose between two fingers. 
The Footbot beeped again, which earned yet another sigh from Shredder. 
“Continue to monitor, while acting alone, Phoenix is even more unpredictable, and we cannot afford to be caught off guard.” 
The Footbot bowed deeply again and quickly left. 

Shredder watched the robot go before turning back to the motorcycle. He glared at Raph’s - or rather Phoenix’s - modifications as his now paint covered hand curled into a tight fist. Shredder turned his attention to the red fabric that had replaced his clan’s sigil. With one fluid swipe of his hand, Shredder ripped the fabric off of the pole it had been tied to. He held it in his hands, running his thumb over the jagged, poorly cut fabric. It was the same material that Raph’s mask had been made from. 
“Until we meet again, Songbird.” He muttered. 
Without another word, Shredder turned his back on the motorcycle and strode out of the garage.

By the time Donnie had finished with Raph, Leo and Casey, thankfully, had stopped arguing. Leo had gone up to his room at some point and Casey had claimed his spot on the couch instead. Kirby had migrated to the kitchen and was now cradling a cup of freshly poured tea in his hands. Splinter was sitting next to him, gently stirring his own tea with a small spoon. Mikey had settled on the bean bag chair and was playing some video game on his phone. 

April, who had been standing by the arcade machine, was the first to notice Donnie. 
“How’s Raph?” She asked, moving over to him. 
Donnie offered her his best attempt at a reassuring smile, “He’s doing pretty good, actually,” He answered, “Shredder did a surprisingly good job treating his wounds.” 
A stern look fell upon April’s face, “And you’re one hundred percent sure that he’s not been mind controlled or-“
Donnie gently rested his hand on April’s shoulder, “I’m sure.” 
April’s shoulders fell in relief and she sighed softly. 
“I was so worried about him,” She admitted, “He was so… So quiet and…”
Donnie gave April’s shoulder a little squeeze, “He’ll be okay,” He said, “He’s probably more mad that he won’t be able to get into a fight than actually getting hurt.” 
That earned a soft laugh from April and she shook her head. 
“Yeah, probably,” She agreed, but her smile quickly faded, “Are the three of you going to be alright without him?” 
“Don’t worry about us, April,” Donnie’s grin never left his face as he waved his hand dismissively, “We’ve fought without him before. It’ll probably be a quiet night, at least with the Foot. Shredder didn’t exactly get off scott-free in the death trap.” 
April sighed, “Okay. I’ll be training with Splinter while you’re gone anyway, so I’ll be here if you need back up.” 
Donnie nodded, though he had absolutely no intention of dragging April into whatever mess they won’t be able to handle. 
“We’re going on patrol soon.” Donnie said. 
April nodded, “Want to see my biology notes before you do?” 
An excited grin crossed over Donnie’s face, “Yes!” He beamed. 
April and Donnie immediately dashed off to the garage, as April had left her bag in her dad’s car. 

Splinter watched them go as he took a small sip of his tea. His ear flickered as his dear friend Kirby droned on about some psychological theory that was brought up by one of his clients earlier in the evening. Splinter’s gaze shifted to Raphael’s room. Raph had been in there since he had arrived and hasn’t left once. His eyes narrowed slightly as his eldest son’s words swam to him. He remembered what Leonardo had told him about Raphael’s and Shredder’s alleged team-up and he wished that Leonardo had lied to him. 
“Excuse me,” Splinter was rising before he even realised what he was doing, “In must go speak with my son.” 
Kirby looked surprised, but he didn’t question it. 
“Oh, right,” Kirby said, “Of course.” 
But Splinter was already walking away. 

Upon reaching the ladder, Splinter managed to scale it with three agile jumps. He landed fluidly on the second floor with the grace of a cat. 
Kirby watched as Splinter moved calmly over to Raphael’s door. 

Raph perked when a soft but sharp knock struck his door. He put down his T-Phone and forced himself to stand. Raph limped over to the door and calmly entered the code. With a soft ‘thnk’, the door slid open. Raphael’s eyes widened in slight surprise upon seeing his father standing there. Splinter, unfazed, stepped into the room without waiting for an invitation. He pressed the button to close to door behind him as his gaze surveyed the room. Splinter’s tail flickered. 
“Go sit down, Raphael.” Splinter said sternly. 
Raph swallowed thickly as he slowly moved past his father. He could feel the rat’s eyes burning into him with a criticality that could make the toughest man crumble.

Raph sat on the edge of his bed, his shoulder slumped and gaze fixed to the floor. Splinter stood before him, his arms folded behind his back. 
“Raphael.” He sounded stern, but also angry, “I believe you already know why I have a need to talk to you.” 
Raph flinched. It was obvious, his brothers ratted him out. They told him what happened in the death trap. Raph closed his eyes and drew in a deep breath. 
“Yes, Sensei.” He muttered. 
That seemed to ignite something in Splinter. He took a step forward and, in one swift movement, struck Raphael across the face with a cruel backhand. The hand struck the side of Raph’s face that wasn’t wounded, but the force of it was no less painful. The force of the blow was so strong and sudden that it sent Raph sprawling. Raph managed to catch himself with his good arm before he could fully collapse onto the bed. With a shaking hand, he tentatively cradled his now stinging cheek. 
“So it’s true then?!” Splinter bellowed, “You willingly joined forces with the Shredder! You acted recklessly yet again!” 
Raphael forced himself fo his feet, his hand dropping from his cheek. 
“I didn’t have a choice!” Raph roared right back “The trap was designed that way! If he died I woulda never gotten out and I woulda died in that shithole!!” 
Splinter’s eyes narrowed, “You will watch your language when you are speaking to me, Raphael.” He said sternly, “I understand your need for survival, what I do not understand is your reckless behaviour that got you into that mess in the first place, nor do I understand what you did after you managed to escape the trap.” 
Raph’s blood ran cold. He was brought back to the exact moment he had ripped off the Kuro Kabuto from Shredder’s head. Raph had never seen Shredder maskless before; he doubted anyone had. Raph had guessed that Splinter had never seen his face either. 

Splinter surveyed his son’s face, watching the minute way his eyes widened as he recalled the events of the other night. 
“You attacked without consulting them, you could have gotten yourself and your brothers killed! On top of that, you failed to survey your surroundings and that resulted in- in-!” Splinter couldn’t finish his sentence verbally, so he settled with a vague gesture to the wounds on Raph’s face. 
Raph simply stared at his father, his face still twisted into a snarl. He had been lectured over and over growing up; it was always easiest when he kept quiet even though he rarely ever did. 
“Leonardo told me what happened in that last room, Raphael,” Splinter spat, “And he  also told me that Shredder was fine and healthy when HE CARRIED YOU OUT OF THE FOREST!” 
Raph flinched at the harshness in his father’s tone, but he felt his anger flare again. 
“We made a deal!” Raph yelled back, “You told me to always honour a deal!” 
“Not with a tyrant like him!” Splinter yelled back, “After everything the Shredder has done, after all the times he has tried to hurt you! To hurt your friends, your brothers! You have disappointed me, Raphael!” 
Raphael opened his mouth to argue, but Splinter cut him off. 
“Once you have fully healed you will be taught proper discipline,” Splinter practically snarled, “Clearly I have been lacking in my teachings for you to do something so idiotic.” 

Without waiting for a response, Splinter straightened and moved to the door. Raph heaved himself up to his feet and moved over. The turtle didn’t look at his father as he punched in the code and Splinter didnt look at him. The second that the door was open, the rat mutant left without a word. Raph pushed the button to shut the door and staggered over to his bed. 

Once Raph got close enough, he flopped into the bed and buried his face in his pillow, trying to ignore the stinging in his cheek. He reached down and grabbed a comic book from the floor after a couple of minutes, deciding it would be a good distraction to what had just happened. 

Raph had just made himself comfortable when a knock reached his door. He peeked over the top of his comic book as a frown settled itself over his face. With an annoying amount of effort, Raph hauled himself out of bed, slamming the comic book down on his bed. Raphael limped over to the door and slammed in the code. 

Leo was standing in the hallway, his hand raised as if he was going to knock again. Leo dropped his hand as he stared at his brother, all words leaving him. His eyes glazed over the cuts that bisected his face, then he looked down to stare at the cuts that sliced his shoulder. Leo opened his mouth to speak, but no words came.
“What do you want, Leo?” Raph scowled. 
Leo blinked a couple of times before he finally managed to respond. 
“Uhh we’re heading out for patrol soon, and-“ 
Raph rolled his eyes, “Yeah yeah yeah,” He cut Leo off, “I’m on bed rest.” 
Leo nodded stiffly, “Uh, yeah. Do you need anything-“
“No,” Raph cut Leo off again, “I’m fine, Leo.” 
Leonardo nodded, “Alright,” He said, “I’ll be going, then… Are you sure you’re alright?” 
Raph fixed Leo with a glare. Leo nodded, more to himself than anything, and quickly walked off. Raph stepped out and stood in the doorway of his room, watching him go. 

Raphael leant against the railing, folding his arms over the top as he watched his family bustle about below. Leo, Donnie and Mikey geared up and left quickly. April went into the Dojo with Splinter, listening intently as Splinter talked about what they were going to go over in their training. Casey left with Kirby to make his hockey game. Raph watched, his eyes narrowing, as everybody else went in with their evening. 
Once everyone was gone, Raph slipped back into his room, punching the button to make the door shut behind him. 

Chapter Text

The aching in his cheek was a prominent and insisten jab to Raph's already frayed nerves. He paced back and forth, wincing with every limp and spiking pain. His mind worked away, weighing out his options as to what he can do with the rest of this already stressful evening.

Splinter never hit him before. He raised his voice, sure, but he never hit him. The action hurt more than the actual contact did. Splinter’s punishments were either just grounding him, on a good day at least, or creative and brutal training regimes. Never hits. Never. Raph had never seen Splinter so angry before. Raph shook his head and ran a hand down his face. He didn’t want to think about that right now, the sting in his cheek was annoying enough. 

It didn't take Raph long to come to a decision. Splinter would be too focused on training with April to notice that he was gone. Raph stopped his pacing and turned his head to glare at the door. Yeah, Splinter wouldn't notice if he left for a little bit to blow off some steam. 
Raphael turned back to the door, fishing his T-Phone from his belt and tossing onto the bed. He entered the code to open the door and slipped out of the room. With one final, wary glance around, Raph re-entered the code to close the door and snuck down the short hallway. 

The trip down the ladder was agonizingly slow. Every single step Raph took with his wounded leg was agonizing and the ladder itself threatened to screech with every single motion Raph made. The turtle's gaze constantly flickered over it the Dojo as he crept over to the garage. The constant knot of fear set by the mere idea that his father could just appear and catch him was almost crippling. 

The mutant let out a breath he didn’t know he was holding when he reached the entrance to the lair. Taking the Stealth Bike would be far too risky. If Leo, Donnie or Mikey even catch a glance of the Stealth Bike out and about would be game over. Raph drew in a deep breath, allowing his eyes to slip closed for a small moment. The walk was going to be hell, but a part of him truly didn't care. The mutant's hands balled up into tight fists at his sides and he marched on, refraining the urge to wince with every step he took. 

The party was in full swing, with music blasting so loud you could hear it from down the street and the lights flashing so bright that Shredder thought he would lose sight in his good eye. The club was a popular place, though one that hardly fit Shredder's interests. It was a relatively large building that took up a huge chunk of the corner of the street. On the ground floor you were met with the 'life' of the party. A huge chunk of the floor to the right was dedicated to the dance floor. The dance floor was a space made up of light-up tiles that switched colours in rhythm to the music that was blasting. Strips of metal beams hung overhead, holding up lights that ran their beams in lazy circles about the space. A DJ booth stood tall at the back of the dance floor, like a king over his subordinates. The man occupying it was putting so much effort into his 'performance' that Shredder could almost convince himself that the man was doing more than pressing a few buttons and moving a few dials. 
A section at the back of the club was dedicated to tables. Old tables that were made permanently stickly with spilt alcohol that hadn't been properly cleaned and a floor that would never know the true meaning of stain-free. To the left of the room, directly across the DJ booth, sat a bar. The bar had several stools lining the bartop and a large shelf full of different beverages that was illuminated by a wall of bright, blinding light. Four bartenders worked the bar on this floor, so used to the bright light that they didn't even blink when they turned around to grab a drink.

The people at the club were either dancing on the dance floor, huddling around the bar like desperate bees around a hive or trying their best to hold a conversation at one of the tables. Many more people, however, seemed to enjoy standing around and clotting up the space.
Shredder always hated these kinds of places. The loudness, the disgusting behaviour brought by drunkards and idiots, and the people pressing so close together that it was nearly impossible to go anywhere without bumping shoulders with someone. 
Shredder's Footbots did a good job at shoving people out of the way for him, making sure that not a single one of the people who were trying to have a good time didn't get close enough to touch him. Shredder received plenty glares and protests, but he kept his stern and dark gaze dead ahead. 

Shredder allowed for his Footbots to guide him through the club and towards the door on the other side of the club that blended with the rich, royal purple walls. The door went ignored, not even a guard stood by it. Shredder had to stop himself from rolling his eyes at the lack of security. The Footbots he had taken with him stood either side of the door upon reaching it and one of them pushed the door open to Shredder. Shredder stepped through the doorway, growling at the Footbots to not let anyone in. The Footbots bowed their heads and straightened up at little. Shredder stalked off and the Footbot let go of the door. 
Beyond the door sat a set of stairs that filled the narrow hallway. The walls were adorned with the same royal purple, though, due to the normal lighting in the small space, Shredder could make out the gold patterns lining the purple. The stairs were coated with a velvet carpet that was a stark, vibrant orange that made Shredder's eyes hurt. Nonetheless, Shredder ascended the stairs. 

The party was in full swing, with music blasting so loud you could hear it from down the street and the lights flashing so bright that it almost blinded him. It rushed him the moment he had stepped through the doors, filling his senses with an almost overwhelming intensity. Despite this, he found himself grinning beneath his mask as anticipation boiled in his chest. The entire building felt alive, filled with smiling people and dancing bodies. Oh, how he loved it. 
He worked his way through the crowd, masterfully avoiding swinging elbows and swirling hips. His helmet reflected the world around him back at it, the black screen relfecting coloured lights and the od silhouette of a dancing person. He felt better already! 

Phoenix looked around briefly, a sudden unease flickering. He felt eyes on him, but couldn't find anyone looking at him save for a fleeting glance. The jacket he was wearing felt heavy for a brief moment, like it was trying to crush him. With a shake of his head, Phoenix continued to the bar. He needed a damn drink and he was going to get one.

The stairs took Shredder to a hidden third floor set above the club. To anyone else, they would think the floor would be a used as a storage facility or a poorly placed set of apartments. While the former was somewhat true, a good chunk of this floor was used to store drinks and other things for the club below, but the rest of the floor was used for... less than legal activities. 

At the top of the stairs stood a strong-looking, muscular man. He was wearing a white collared shirt, a black tie and a wine-purple waistcoat. His pants were a matching colour with a pinstripe pattern and his shoes looked recently polished. His hair was cut so short you could almost think he was bald and a pair of thick sunglasses covered his eyes. The man looked at Shredder, considering him, before he planted his large meaty hand on the door and pushed it open. He nodded at Shredder, who actively chose to ignore him.

Beyond the door was a bland, undecorated section of the third floor. Boxes lined the walls in small clusters and the lights above, while small, were harsh. The doors were labelled with metal plates, ranging from 'Toiletries' to 'Drinks'. Those doors stretched from the long, wide hallway that Shredder was walking down. Shredder ignored them, and the odd employees dressed in simple uniforms bustling around looking for certain supplies. Two more guards were stood either side of the door at the far end of the hallway. They looked just as strong and muscular as the last, but they didn't say a word when Shredder reached them. Shredder stood before them, staring at the door, while the guards watched the employees until they were gone from sight. Only then did one of them open the door for Shredder. 

Behind this door was a much more lavish space. The walls resumed the royal purple theming and the floor was adorned with that same ugly orange carpet. This space was much more open, with wider, longer hallways and rooms labelled with names instead of objects. Women dressed in barely anything walked, moving elegantly despite the heels they wore, some hanging off of men's arms, others gossping in quiet whispers. Multiple women stared at Shredder, but they went just as ignored as everyone else. Shredder could just about hear the music from down below, its swinging beat practically shaking the floor with every second. It irritated him, but he forced himself to ignore, or at least attempt to ignore, the music. 
Shredder's mis-matched eyes were dark with rage. Everything just seemed to fray his nerves tonight. As the clan leader stalked through the halls, ignoring the womens' attempts at conversation, his mind yet again started to wander. 
A weight settled on his back; a body pressing against his own. When Shredder peered over his shoulder, ready to slaughter the person who dared to touch him, he found nobody behind him. Yet, he could still feel the weight, a body pressed against his back, arms around his shoulders and a warm breath trickling along his neck. Shredder resisted the urge to shudder and continued on his way, his clenched fists shaking at his sides.

Eventually, Shredder made it to his destination. It was a private chamber, the one room in this entire building Hun kept all to himself. It kept up with the theme of royal purple and gold walls, but shed the hideous orange carpet for black tile that shined under the dim lights overhead. A bar took up the entire right wall. It was made of mahogany and had been polished to an almost blinding shine. The front of the bar had a beautiful pattern of an intricately carved Chinese Dragon. The carving had been painted in gold, which made it even more eyecatching in the lights hanging above the bar. A large set of shelves filled with various drinks sat before a large mirror that was lined with small pale lights. The hooks atop the bar that was supposed to be filled with glasses lay empty. Multiple opened bottles sat on the bartop, surrounded by glasses that had been clearly drunk from and still had remants of the drinks that they once contained inside of them.
The wall opposite the bar was taken up by a window, granting a grand view of the city below. Lights from other buildings and billboards pooled into the room, illuminating a small chunk of it in a dull glow. 
There was a leather chesterfield couch pushed up against the wall, surrounded by a canopy curtain that hung from the wall. Perched on the couch sat Hun, with an arm each wrapped around women dressed in nothing but their underwear. There was a glass table perched upon a white tiger-skin rug sat in front of the couch that was also littered with empty glasses and drink bottles. Hun was wearing a lavender - coloured silk shirt that was only half done up, as well as tight black pants and his usual crocodile skin shoes. The woman sat on Hun's right was a blonde woman wearing gold lingerie, while the woman on Hun's left had black hair and lingerie to match. 

"Hun." Shredder snarled, stepping further into the room, "I was under the impression that we were to discuss business." 
Hun looked away from the giggling blonde, fixing Shredder with a sly grin. 
"Who says we can't do business without a little entertainment, Shredder? Hun purred in response.
Shredder's eyes narrowed. He forced himself to draw a deep breath. Hun was always annoying to deal with, this was no different. Before Shredder could respond, Hun continued to speak. 
"We were supposed to meet the other night, you know," Hun said slyly, gently running his fingers up and down the blonde's arm, "It's not like you to be anything but punctual. What happened?" 
The trap. Yet again, Shredder was reminded of its events. Reminded of Raphael, his carelessness with every trap, his rage, his confidence. It all crossed his mind in a split second. 
"Something more pressing came up," Shredder found himself saying, "An... Old acquaintance of mine dropped in for a surprise visit." 
That earned a chuckle out of Hun, "An old acquaintance? You? Your humour needs work, Shredder." 
Shredder hummed drily, "You have been behind on your-" 
Hun cut Shredder off again, "Oh, you're always so serious, Shredder. Sit, have a drink, unwind, a little. It'll do you some good, you know." 
"The chemicals you have promised me have been lacking, Hun." Shredder hissed, his tone low and warning. 
Another laugh escaped Hun. Shredder looked closer at him and noticed a faint blush on his face. Clearly, he had drank far too much to take this meeting seriously. 

Shredder opened his mouth to yell at Hun, to allow for his rage that has been simmering every since Raph had tackled him into the death trap to explode. The door opened and the words caught in Shredder's throat. The clan leader slowly turned, his fingers twitched with the want to release the blades from his Tekkō-Kagi and unleash hell on whoever dared interrupt. 

A Footbot stood in the doorway. Upon making eye contact with Shredder, the Footbot bowed deeply while beeping its apologies. 
"Speak." Shredder spat. 
The Footbot did, beeping quickly after pulling out of its bow. It's words has Shredder's rage dissipating like fire in water. Shredder ordered the Footbot to repeat itself and it did just that without question. Phoenix. Shredder didn't even bother to mutter out an 'excuse me' as he strode out of the room. The Footbot followed quickly, shutting the door firmly and leaving Hun in a stunned silence. 

Shredder's stride didn't falter for a second. The women still in the hallway stared at him with perplexed shock, but Shredder couldn't care less. The trip back down to the first floor felt like it had taken forever, despite Shredder moving twice as fast as he had before. The booming, irritating, heart-piercingly-loud music went completely ignored by the Shredder as his sharp gaze scanned the room. The Footbot caught up to him and pointed at someone in the crowd. Shredder followed his gaze. 

There, in the middle of the dance floor, was Phoenix. Shredder recognised him from the surveillance footage of the night he had stolen from him, recognised him from the weeks he spent watching him work, watching him steal, watching him fight. After everything Shredder has witnessed of Phoenix's activity, seeing him dance so freely made him think he was hallucintaing. He was wearing the same thing he always wore. A black leather jacket with spikes on the shoulders and an embroidered, flaming phoenix on the back. Black cargo pants covered his legs, straining around powerful thighs that Shredder has personally witnessed break bone. Phoenix stomped on the ground with the beat of the music, his thick combat boots slamming silently against the floor. Leather gloves coated Phoenix's hands as he trailed them over his body and swung his hips. His neck was wrapped up in boxing bandages and his head was shielded by a plain, striking red motorcycle helmet. When Phoenix raised his arms over his head, the leather jacket shifted. Shredder expected to see the flesh that Phoenix was trying so hard to hide. Instead, he saw boxing bandages. Everything Phoenix was wearing looked old, worn and scuffed, faded in places and stitched up in others. It made Phoenix look more intimidating, at least to everyone except for a certain clan leader. 

Phoenix dropped into a low squat as the music dropped, before slowly rising with the beat. He slipped his hands up the sides of his thighs, then his waist, before they trailed up his chest and rose above his head. Phoenix swirled his hips, feeling a smile creep up his face as the music rocked through his system.

A sudden hand grabbed Phoenix's raised wrist and he was spun around. He was met face-to-face with a man with long, greasy and slicked-back hair and a neatly groomed goatee. His eyes were narrowed and his lips were twisted into an angry snarl. The man wasn't wearing a shirt and Phoenix could just about make out the twisted dragon tattoos running all over his chest, shoulders and arms. Jeans hung low on his hips, the belt loops decorated with far too many belt-loop chains, and covered the tops of a pair of thick leather boots. Phoenix didn't know his name, but the odds that he's a man that he's pissed off was high. He recognised him as a Purple Dragon, but that was the extent of his knowledge on the man before him.
"You." The man spat, "You've got a lot of nerve showin' your mask in here, Phoenix." 
Phoenix glared at him, "You got a lotta nerve to touch me after what I did to your buddy." 
The man gave Phoenix's arm a yank, forcing him closer, "That's some strong words from someone aboutta get their jaw broken." 
The man raised a clenched fist. Phoenix smirked. 
"Same goes to you, baby." He purred. 

Before the man could react, Phoenix brought his leg up and slammed his knee into the man's ribs. The Purple Dragon's scream of pain was lost in the loud roaring of the music. The man buckled and Phoenix immediately yanked his hand free. He then clamped his hands down either side of the man's head and slammed his knee into his nose. The man's head snapped back from the force, blood spitting from his nostrils. Phoenix could just about make out the little 'crunch' sound his nose made when it got broken. The man fell to his knees and his hands flew to his face. Phoenix immediately turned and ran, grinning widely. 

Two Purple Dragons rushed to help their fallen friend, but they were sent after Phoenix with a shove and a shout. Phoenix wove and ducked through the crowd, a laugh falling from his mouth as more Purple Dragons joined the chase. People were starting to take notice now and were actively jumping out of the way of Phoenix. Those that didn't got shoved out of the way. 

Phoenix made it to the door and one of the strong-looking bouncers immediately blocked him. Phoenix snorted at his attempt. He dropped into a slide and slid right through the bouncer's spread legs. The Purple Dragons slammed into the bouncer, unable to stop themselves, and they all fell into a crumbling heap on the ground. Phoenix cackled now as he ran off, arms and legs pumping despite the aching. The Dragons quickly picked themselves up, leaving the poor bouncer on the floor and gave chase. 

Phoenix ran, laughing at the insults and demands to come back and 'face them'. He ducked into an alleyway, only for his thrill of the chase to fade. He had ran straight into a dead-end alley. Phoenix groaned, as if being forced into a fight with six men was as inconvenient as running out of his favourite snacks. The masked figure turned, slipping his Sais from where they sat under the back of his jacket. He waited, listening to the thunder of approaching footsteps. The slicing of blades cut through the air, following the sickening thuds of flesh hitting the ground. Phoenix's bravado focused and he stared at the alley opening, stunned. He didn't notice the figure dropping down behind him in his shock, until hands wrapped around his wrists and pinned them to his sides. Phoenix was forced back against a steel chest and he immediately looked up. Shredder looked down at him, his eyes narrowed slightly as he considered the man before him. 
"Phoenix." He stated, "I hardly expected you to be out so soon." 
Phoenix glared at him, "Same goes for you." He snarled, "You've been followin' me, haven't you?" 
Shredder chuckled, "I have been keeping tabs on you, I admit," He answered fluidly, "But believe me when I say us being in Hun's club at the same time was pure coincidence." 
Phoenix glanced back at the entrance to the alley, "What did you do?" 
"I didn't kill them," Shredder answered, "I am in no mood to start a war with Hun over a few lives. I assumed you would like an assist." 
"You assumed wrong." Phoenix snarled, "Let me go." 

Much to Phoenix's surprise, Shredder released his wrists and took a step back. Phoenix turned fully to him, eying him, looking up and down as he prepared himself for a fight. Sensing Phoenix's apprehnsion, Shredder slowly folded his arms behind his back. Phoenix didn't raise his Sais, but he didn't put them down here. 
"Why were you at Hun's club if you weren't followin' me?" Phoenix asked. 
Shredder tilted his head slightly to the side, "I could ask you the same thing, since you're hardly in a state to steal something." 
Phoenix made a mock-hurt sound, "Oh, c'mon, Shreds!" He gasped dramatically, touching his chest with a gloved hand, "I don't steal everything I see!" 
Shredder hummed dryly. Phoenix rolled his eyes. 
"I'm just here to have a good time, that's all," Phoenix said, "What about you?" 
Shredder stared at him for a brief moment, silently debating whether or not he should answer the man before him. 
"Hun fell behind on the chemicals I am paying him for," Shredder explained, "I was about to demand what is owed when my soldiers caught sight of you." 

As if summoned, the two Footbots that Shredder was travelling with stepped into the mouth of the alleyway, blocking Phoenix's exit. The pair of them were holding clean Katanas despite the fact that the front of their uniforms were stained with blood. Phoenix spared them a glance before returning his glare to Shredder.
"What doy you want, Sunshine?" He snarled. 
"You know what I want." Was Shredder's reply. 
"And you know my answer." Phoenix glanced back at the Footbots, "Are you going to let me leave, or is this going to get ugly?" 
Shredder shook his head, "I am not here to fight you," He took a step closer and leant down to mutter in Phoenix's ear, "I would hate to ruin that pretty face of yours." 
Phoenix tensed slightly. Shredder straightened up with a smirk and reached into a hidden section his his armour. From it he retrieved a small burner phone and he held it up so that Phoenix can see it.
"In case you reconsider, Phoenix," He said smoothly, "You can reach me." 
Without waiting for a response, Shredder grabbed Phoenix by the wrist and shoved the phone into his hand. Shredder leant down again, a slight grin tugging at his lips. 
"It will be a pleasure working with you, Songbird." 
Phoenix stood frozen for a moment. Shredder could feel a tremor run through Phoenix's body at Shredder's words. Unfortunately for Shredder, Phoenix was quick at gathering his composure. 
"A phone and a motorcycle, You really know how to spoil a guy, Sunshine." He purred. 
Surprised, Shredder stepped back, dropping Phoenix's wrist, "What?" 

Phoenix immediately turned and bolted out of the alley, shoving the phone into his jacket pocket before shoving the Footbots out of the way. He ran around the corner out of sight. The Foobots looked at Shredder, waiting for an order, but none came. A short moment later, a headlight graced the path, followed by a familiar purr of a familiar vehicle. Shredder's eyes grew wide. Phoenix came back into view, perched atop of the very same Dragon Chopper he had stolen weeks before. Shredder stared, his mouth falling open as Phoenix turned his head to look at him. 
"See ya later, Sunshine!" Phoenix called, blowing Shredder a mocking kiss. 
He was gone just as quick as he arrived, shooting off out of sight with a roar from the Dragon Chopper. Shredder let out a roar of frustration and ran a hand down his armoured face. 
"He stole from me again!!" He bellowed, his frustration boiling his blood. 
The Footbots simply sheathed their weapons and watched as Phoenix zipped down the street, laughing to himself as he went.

Chapter Text

Shredder grumbled as he made his way back to his motorcycle, his meeting with Hun forgotten. His head and heart pounded with rage as he mounted the motorcycle, gripping the handlebars so tight they looked like they might break. The Footbots watched him aprehensively, standing on the sidewalk with their hands clutched against their chest. One beeped at him, but Shredder waved it off. 
"I am fine," He grumbled, "I did not have you programmed to worry about me." 
The Footbot beeped in protest, daring to move closer. Shredder shot the robot a stern glare which made it quickly back away with an apologetic bow. Shredder glared at the robot for a moment longer as the hunk of metal simply stood there, staring back as it waited for an order.
"I am heading back now," Shredder said, turning away as he started up his Dragon Chopper, "Be sure that I am not disturbed." 
Both of the Footbots bowed in unison. Shredder shot off down the street, probably faster than he had meant to, but he couldn't bring himself to care. The Footbots shared a look before moving further down the street to their own Dragon Choppers.

Shredder shot through the New York streets like a runaway bullet. Every turn me made was tight but still somehow smooth and every weave around a car that was moving too slow for Shredder's liking was quickly weaved around with a couple of jerks on the handlebars. The sight of the Phoenix driving away on one of his Dragon Choppers again was enough to almost send Shredder into a blinded frenzy. It was an insult to his abilities to guard himself, his home and his property. If Phoenix's intentions was any more malicious than stealing his vehicles then Shredder would begin to lose sleep. Shredder shook his head. No, he told himself, he couldn't let the bastard going through a rebellious streak against his father drive him this mad.

Raph eventually came to a stop deep in China Town. He parked in a dingy alley that was barely big enough to fit the Dragon Chopper and killed the engine. The mutant tilted back

The return home was swift and, thankfully, uneventful. Shredder parked the Dragon Chopper in the garage, pausing only to glare at the empty space left by the motorcycle that Phoenix has stolen. Shredder killed the engine with a grumble and stood up, his irritation evident. The Footbots gaurding the doors to the garage looked twitchy, like they had been hit over the head too hard and their programming was off. Shredder stopped to look at them more closely. They just couldn't remain still like they were programmed to do. What was stopping Phoenix from just destroying these robots like he does when he's taking on his alter ego? Was it to mock him? To show Shredder that he didn't need to break his soldiers to get what he wants? If irritating Shredder was Phoenix's goal, he had succeeded. Shredder shoved past the two robots, sending them stumbling. One crashed into the wall while the other tripped over its own feet and fell hard on the floor. Shredder snarled and stormed out of the garage. 

The first Footbot Shredder saw on the way out of the garage was grabbed by the front of its uniform and yanked almost off of its feet. It was forced onto its toes to look Shredder in the eye as its hands gripped Shredder's on pure impulse. 
"Get those broken Footbots to Stockman immediately to fix them up," Shredder ordered, his voice raising to a louder and harsher tone than he intended, "Have others take over their posts. Then, I want you to tell Stockman that if he doesn't have an upgraded model for you glorified piles of junk by tomorrow evening at the latest then he won't be fed until he does. Am I underst-" 
A wave of nausea it Shredder so suddenly that he dropped the Footbot. The Footclan leader stumbled back, his hands going to his head as his vision swam behind his eyes. The Footbot lunged forward to steady him, beeping worriedly at his master. Shredder shoved it away. 
"I'm fine!" He snarled, eventhough he definitely did not feel fine, "Go do what I told you to do! And have some chamomile sent to my quarters."
The Footbots hurriedly bowed before they raced off down the hall. Shredder grumbled something unintelligble under his breath as he watched them go. The Footclan leader then turned sharply on his heel and went on his way, his fists clenched at his sides. 

The flames fickered overhead, barely catching Shredder's tall build in its dim light. Gargoyles sat high up on the pillar, their claws grasping their stone perches and their snarling faces leering down at the Shredder as he strode through the corridors. Despite the torches, a removeable coldness swept through the lair, the very kind that seeped through your bones and curled around your heart. It was a coldness that Shredder had grown used to, even if now the cold was slowly driving him mad. Shredder's head felt both heavy and eerily light at the same time. His body felt sickly warm and his chest felt tight. There was no way he was sick, right? No, definitely not. Shredder doesn't get sick. Shredder told himself that it was just the stress of having to deal with Phoenix on top of everything else he had to deal with. Sometimes he wishes that the damn vigilante would disappear.

Shredder’s private quarters wasn’t exactly warm either. His private quarters were quite large, which certainly didn’t help with the chill. Not that he minded, the cold meant nothing to Shredder. His quarters took up the entirety of the top floor of his lair. He had everything he needed up here. A kitchen, a library, a living room, his own private Dojo, his office and his bedroom. He had no real reason to be in the rest of the lair when he didn’t need to. Everything was under lock and key, something that Shredder himself had ensured. Very, very few had access to Shredder's quarters and that was how Shredder liked it. Though, that didn't explain how a certain martyr managed to bypass his security systems on top of his Footbots' patrol. Shredder shook his head as he moved over to his bedroom. That was a worry for later. Right now, Shredder just wanted to collapse into his bed and sleep. 

Hachikō was waiting for him, just like always. He had been laying on Shredder's bed, his favourite toy, a very old stuffed bear that he's had since he was a puppy, resting between his paws. The fabric of the bear was tattered and faded and one of it's ears had a chunk missing. No matter how many times Shredder tried to convince him, Hachikō refused to let the bear go. 

The second Hachikō caught sight of Shredder, his curled tail started wagging at such a fast rate that it almost disappeared from view. That earned a soft chuckle from Shredder even though he felt like he was going to collapse. His body felt far too hot and he could feel inklings of sweat beading on his brow. A grunt of annoyance escaped the clan leader as another wave of nausea claimed him. The armour fell in pieces on the floor in a line like broken toy soldiers as Shredder staggered over to the bed. The Kuro Kabuto was taken off last and was the only piece of armour to be set down gently. It was laid to rest on the bedside table next to the head of his bed. Shredder wobbled dangerously the second it was put down, but he steadied himself with the bedpost. 

Shredder doesn't even remember pulling off his bodysuit. All he remembered was collapsing on his bed, burying his face in the plump pillows and promptly passing out. Hachikō padded over to him and nosed Shredder's shoulder. The dog whined softly when he felt the sweltering heat of Shredder's skin. Hachikō curled up next to Shredder, his bear clutched in his mouth. 

Phoenix eventually pulled over, his chest heaving from how hard he had been laughing. The vigilante kicked the kickstand in place and killed the engine. Then, he stood up and stretched his arms over his head, completely unable to wipe the grin from his face. He had parked in an alleyway on the edge of Chinatown that was so narrow the Dragon Chopper’s handlebars were a mere couple of centimetres away from scraping against the walls of the buildings either side. The streets were bustling with people; a true testament to the city that never sleeps. People chattered amongst themselves as they weaved their way through the night market that was filled with fresh fruits and deliciously cooked meals. The smell alone was making Phoenix’s stomach growl. Lanterns hung overhead, casting the people in a lovely warm glow as they went about their business. 

Phoenix allowed himself a moment to simply watch as life passed him by, smiling slightly. He caught sight of a little girl being lifted onto her uncle’s shoulders while her parents laughed with pure joy. Phoenix’s smile grew.

He turned away eventually, his hand sliding into his belt for his twin Tegaki. They slid onto his hands easily and Phoenix found a comfort in their weight. His grin turned almost manic as he begun scaling the wall with a practiced ease. He ignored the people now, the hum of conversation fading into a low drone. The jacket creaked with every movement, an almost imperceptible sound if you didn’t know what to listen out for. Phoenix almost cursed himself for the jacket, but nothing else really fit the look. 

Leo crouched low, his dark blue eyes narrowing as he scanned the rooftop. Six Purple Dragons were standing guard around the stairwell, four of which were holding alarmingly large guns close to their chests. They were talking and laughing, but their shoulders were squared and the two who weren’t holding guns never let their fists unclench. Donnie sat perched next to him, observing and calculating silently. 
“They have Carbon 15s,” Donnie muttered eventually, “Since when do they carry this kind of fire power?” 
Leo had been wondering exactly the same thing. The Purple Dragons have been getting much more aggressive lately, packing a harder punch when it came to their weapons. It was almost like they were scared of something. 
“They’ve been on edge for a while now,” Leo whispered back, “This kind of behaviour could end very badly. What if they start attacking the public because of this?” 
Donnie spared him a glance, “Overthinking is my job,” He said calmly, “But I see your point.” 

Mikey knelt down on Leo’s right and he took his time observing the group. 
“Maybe they’re waiting for something, dude,” He said, “Or someone?” 
Leo and Donnie both considered this. It was possible. The Purple Dragons constantly looked around and Leo was honestly surprised that they hadn’t been spotted. 
“Ooh!” Mikey suddenly said, turning to look at his older brothers, “What if there’s a new hero in town?” 
Leo and Donnie both pulled a face. They doubted it. Everyone in New York always looked after themselves. They weren’t interested in sticking their necks out for the little man. 
“Doubt it,” Donnie practically scoffed, as he turned back to the Purple Dragons, “Who would-“
He froze, his mouth falling open. Leo and Mikey both frowned and looked back. 

There were five Purple Dragons on the rooftop now. The one closest to the door was gone. Perched above them was a shadow, holding the sixth, panicked and struggling, Purple Dragon in a headlock. Leo, Donnie and Mikey all watched, stunned, as the struggling man’s fight slowly faded. He went limp in the shadow’s arms and the shadow let him go after a moment. The shadow tilted forward, watching the remaining Dragons as it sat with an eerie stillness. The Dragons continued their conversations, oblivious to their comrade going missing. 

Eventually, one of them noticed. 
“Hey,” He called, silencing everyone else, “Where the hell is Zihan?” 
All eyes turn to where ‘Zihan’ had been standing. Fear immediately dawned on their faces. Those with guns tightened their hold on them. The remaining one without a gun nestled himself behind one of their friends, visibly paling. 
“Zihan!” One of the other Dragons yelled, his voice shaking, “Come on man, this isn’t funny!” 
Zihan didn’t answer. Leo spared the figure a glance, and then looked down at Zihan’s still form. Did they kill him, or just knock him out? It was impossible to tell. 

The figure suddenly lunged forward and leapt. The light of the lanterns that connected the buildings together struck him, bathing him in a warm glow. Everything seemed to move in slow motion as Leo, Donnie and Mikey took in the figure, their mouths hanging open. 

Phoenix flipped once and stuck out a leg. He fell upon one of the men with guns and promptly kicked him hard in the head. The man went crashing to the ground, the gun falling from his hands, while Phoenix landed in a fluid crouch. Like a lightning bolt, Phoenix moved again, giving the other Dragons little to no time to react. The Dragon he was lunging at swung his gun like a bat, but Phoenix dropped down low, spun on the ball of one foot and swept the man’s legs with the other. He was upright before the man hit the ground and he promptly lifted his leg high in the air before slamming it down onto the man’s face, breaking his nose with a sickening crunch. The man bounced from the force of the kick before going slack against the gravel.

The other two gunmen aimed and the Dragon without a gun yanked a switchblade from his pocket. Phoenix stood fluidly and watched the men, his shoulders square and fists clenched. 
“You got some nerve showin’ your face here, Phoenix!” Yelled one of the gunmen, “The boss has been wanting your head!” 
Phoenix shrugged and planted a hand in his hips. 
“My head’s too pretty to be something that slimeball can have.” 
“It won’t be pretty by the time we’re done with you, bird-brain!” Snapped the one with the knife. 
Phoenix chuckled and turned his head to look at the man, “Took the words right outta my mouth, boys.” 
Then, Phoenix whistled sharply.

The sound of beating wings filled the air, followed closely by four birds flying at the two gunmen like angry feathery bullets. Two magpies, a raven and a crow, which had a strange bit of red fabric around its neck, pecked and scratched mercilessly at the gunmen's heads and faces, squawking and cawing in pure rage. The gunmen dropped their guns in favour of swatting at the birds as the third Purple Dragon leapt away in search of cover. Phoenix lunged at him and swung his fist, catching him in the side of the head and knocking him out cold. 

Phoenix turned to the other two men as they fell to their knees and covered their heads with their arms. He whistled again, much softer this time, and the bird immediately backed off. The crow landed on Phoenix's head and started preening its wings while its comrades flew off. Raph gently stroked the crow with his finger as he approached the two men, muttering something that the observing Hamato brothers couldn't decipher. 
Leo, Donnie and Mikey watched, wide-eyed and slack-jawed as Phoenix knocked out both men with a precise kick to the head. Phoenix straightened out his jacket as the two men fell in crumbling heaps to the ground. The crow straightened up and immediately nuzzled its head against Phoenix's.
"Good boy, Yūrei." Phoenix praised, gently scratching the bird's chin.
"Good! Good!" The crow cawed happily, flapping its wings in pride, "Good good!" 
The crow's voice was raspy and broken. It was a voice that made Leo grimace and Donnie to gaze at the bird with a newfound wonder. 

'Yūrei' flew off then with a single, parting 'caw!'. Phoenix watched the bird fly off until it was out of sight. He then stuffed his hands in his jacket pocket and walked over to the stairwell. He kicked it open and disappeared inside. The door swung shut behind him and the Hamato brothers shared bewildered looks.

Phoenix sauntered down the stairs calmly, doing his very best to ignore the tell-tale throbbing that was an irritating indicator that his pain meds were wearing off. He spared glances at the cobweb-covered corners and the broken lights still screwed to the ceiling - god the Dragons were so stupid sometimes. Even if this wasn't the Purple Dragons' main base, it was certainly a good money-maker. At least, according to Shredder's files. Shredder has been keeping tabs on this particular business for weeks. It was a drug cartel and money laundering business all rolled into a little strip club that was oddly popular. Phoenix found himself grinning. He had accessed the file on this place the very same night he stole the blueprints for the death trap. He hadn't lied when Shredder asked him what else he stole. He didn't steal the files, he only took a little peak. 

Donnie had been investigating the drug spike and it has been driving him slowly insane. He had been losing sleep over it so he decided to take care of it. Donnie already has a habit of skipping sleep, so this would be one more thing off of his plate.

The music hit Phoenix like a train. It was loud and the beat was a hard thrum that clenched your heart and made your bones shake. Phoenix grinned. He slowed his pace and ducked low. He slipped out of the stairwell into the staff hallway, where women wearing barely any clothes stalked along in scarily high heels and waiters and bus boys bustled around with trays of drinks and food. Phoenix ignored all of them, seamlessly slipping through the workers easily. Everyone was so focused on their work that they didn't even acknowledge his presence. 
The hallway was painfully narrow, which made it even more surprising that Phoenix managed to get by unnoticed. The floor was covered with a red velvety carpet that had long since gone flat from the constant busy-bodies walking back and forth. The walls were a rich wine red, blending with gorgoues gold diamond patterns. The ceiling had been left bare, fixed with a long row of strip lights that had dulled and were starting to flicker. Only a handful of doors lined the hallway, which was shocking considering how long it was. There was one for the kitchen, one for the bar, one that led to the changing rooms for the dancers, a supply closet and a very special door tucked between the changing rooms and the supply closet. Raph knew the door would be locked, so he breezed past it and went straight into the life of the party, where the music got so loud each note rattled about in his skull.

The entire building came to life the second Raph stepped out of the workers' hallway. The walls were lined with the same luxurious pattern as the workers' hallway, giving it an expensive look that contrasted what the place was actually used for. The hardwood floors were so sticky with spilt alcohol that hadn't been properly cleaned that they made no sound when the dancers walked around in the ankle-breakers they called shoes. Booths of leather and velvet framed circular stages filled the building. Each booth had between three to five men and each stage had one barely-dressed lady dancing on a pole. Phoenix didn't spare anyone a glance as he weaved past drooling men, workers masterfully balancing trays and dancers scurrying away for their breaks or scurrying to the stage for their shift. Phoenix swiped a thick fur coat from the back of a booth as he passed it and yanked it on. Then, he slid a diamond-encrusted panther mask from the belt of a dancer. He held the panther mask up over his face as he carefully lifted the glass face of his motorcycle helmet. He pulled the elastic strap of the panther mask around his head and pulled the fur coat's hood over his head. 

Phoenix strode to the back of the bar as he buttoned up the coat. The panther mask hid his entire helmet perfectly and the high fur collar of his new coat encircled his neck like a choker. 

Sid and Fong were sat in a booth at the back of the club, their eyes glued to the dancer who mastefully swirled around a pole. Phoenix snatched a glass of champagne and a couple of glasses from a passing bus boy, whose shouts of protest was lost to the music. 
Phoenix strutted right over to Sid, who was definitely the least ugly of the two, and sat himself in Sid's lap. Sid's attention immediately snapped to him, his eyes widening in surprise. 
"Champagne, dollface?" Phoenix purred, pressing his hand to Sid's chest as he leant close, "I got it special, just for you." 
Sid stared at Phoenix, far too stunned to speak. Fong was staring at Phoenix, too, his eyes flickering up and down Phoenix's form. Hesitantly, Sid rested his hand on the small of Phoenix's back as he gulped. 
"Do I know you?" He grumbled. 
"Not yet," Phoenix said, forcing himself to keep his tone sweet, "The boss said I should get myself acquainted to you before my first dance," He spared a glance at the dancer, "He said you like to get your hands on us first." 
Sid's lips twitched up into a grin. Clearly, Phoenix was right on the money. Sid's grip tightened and he yanked Phoenix closer to his body. Fong raised an eyebrow. 
"Since when do we hire men as strippers?" He asked, his brows furrowing. 
Phoenix leant down and nuzzled his mask against Sid's jaw, "Times are changin', baby," He answered, "Gotta accommadate certain customers, right?" 
Fong's face twisted like he just sucked on a feshly cut lemon, but he didn't say anything else. Phoenix ran his hand down Sid's chest, which earned a chuckle from him. Sid's hand moved to grasp Phoenix's ass while his hand wandered and it took everything in Phoenix not to stab the man right then and there. 

Phoenix wrapped his hand around Sid's waist, massaging the skin just beneath the seam of his shirt. Fong snatched the bottle of champagne and glasses from Phoenix's hand, so he instead used it to stroke Sid's neck. Finally, Phoenix's wandering hand curled around the keys dangling from a little chain on Sid's belt. With a flick of his wrist, Phoenix freed the keys, disgusing the movement by nuzzling Sid's neck. Sid let out a little groan of pleasure, a drunken grin plastering over his face. 

Phoenix suddenly sat bolt upright, pulling his hand away and turning away from Sid as if somebody had just called him. He slid the keys into the pocket of the fur coat. 
"Oh dear, sorry, dollface," Phoenix turned back to Sid, resting his hand on his chest again, "It's my turn." 
Sid smirked, "Whatever you say, cutie," He reached up to run his knuckles down Phoenix's panther mask, "Come back and see me after and we can finish what we started." 
Phoenix forced himself to chuckle, "Anythin' for you." 
Sid gave Phoenix's ass one last squeeze before releasing him. Phoenix stood up and walked away, thankful for his mask as his face twisted into a grimace.
"I am showering for hours when I get home." Phoenix muttered to himself as he bit back a shudder. 
"Really, Sid?" Fong grumbled to his friend. 
Sid shrugged and sat back against the booth, wrapping his arms around the back of it, "Action is action, Fong," He answered, "And a hole-" 
"Do not finish that sentence, Sid." Fong cut him off. 
Sid simply laughed. 

Phoenix let himself sigh with relief when he made it back to the workers' hallway. He didn't take off the coat or the mask, deciding that the extra coverage was worth the uncomfortable heat that it brought. The hallway wasn't as busy as it was earlier, but everybody continued to ignore him or not notice him.

Phoenix stood with his back to the locked door, glancing at every face around him as he took the keys out of his pocket. It took a little longer than Phoenix would have liked, but he managed to unlock it. Phoenix immediately backed into the room and shut the door behind him. The hallway he had stepped into was short. Gone was the luxurious wallpaper and matted carpet. The walls and floor were stone and the space was illuminated by a naked bulb. At the end of the hallway was a set of stairs that lead down into a thick steel door that has seen far better days. Phoenix stuffed his hands into his new coat and started to walk down the stairs, his bright green, non-bandaged eye shining even in the darkness.

Shredder woke up sharply from his fitful sleep when his bedroom door opened. His dark eye seemed to swallow the light as he slipped a clammy hand under the pillow for his Tantō. He turned his head and paused. A Footbot approached, its hands folded behind its back. Shredder forced himself to sit up, supporting his sweaty and shaking body on his forearms. 
"What?" He spat in Japanese. 
The Footbot bowed deeply and beeped, its voice almost hesitant. Shredder's eyes widened in horror before they narrowed in pure rage. 
"I'm going to kill the martyr." He hissed. 

Shredder had been watching that club for weeks, watching as Hun fed him lies and shoved money into his own pockets from a shady little business he thought Shredder wouldn't notice. Now, he was getting dragged out of bed when right now all he wanted to do was crawl into a hole and die, all because Phoenix decided tonight would be the perfect night to put an end to it. Shredder had wanted Hun to think he had won before he Despite his body's protests, Shredder hauled himself out of bed. He wobbled dangerously the second he was on his feet and the Footbot raised its hands as if ready to catch Shredder. 
"Get away from me." Shredder shoved past the Footbot and moved over to the pile that was his armour, "I'm fine." 
The Footbot beeped quietly in protest, but quickly shut up when Shredder shot him a glare. The Footbot stood its ground for only a moment longer before it let out a little defeated 'beep' and left the room. 
Shredder glared after the Footbot before he started to dress himself. 

Shredder felt like his head had imploded. His vision was splotchy around the edges and he was freezing cold, shaking like a leaf in a storm despite how sweaty he was. Shredder's throat felt dry and his stomach was rumbling threateningly. Still, he forced himself to move.
"I'm going to kill you, Raph." He hissed, "Kami, I hate you." 

Phoenix knelt down and peered through the keyhole, his eyes narrowed. The room was dimly lit, only a section of it illuminated by a dim bulb dangling precariously from a narrow wire. Phoenix slowly straightened and pushed open the door. The room was much smaller than Phoenix had been expecting. It was mostly filled with crates. There was blood and bones coating the floor just outside of the bulb's glare, which made Phoenix freeze. He glanced around as he slowly reached for his Sais. A knot formed in his gut, which made him immediately uneasy. 

After a moment, Phoenix forced himself to relax. He moved over to the nearest crate and shoved his Sai into the crack between the lid and the frame. With a sharp flick of his wrist, he forced the lid open, ripping the nails out of the wooden walls of the box. He lifted it just enough to peer inside. Square packages filled the box, stacked in neat little rows. Phoenix couldn't identify what kind of drugs they were, but he didn't care. The sooner he could destroy them, the sooner the argument to make Donnie sleep would be easier to make. Phoenix let the crate fall shut and move onto the next one. 
This one was filled to the brim with money that had been carefully counted and wrapped up in plastic. Raphael's eyes widened. This kinda money could feed him and his family for a year at least. Phoenix pictured Splinter rooting through garbage cans or alleyways for money or food and his heart clenched. Surely Hun's wallet wouldn't suffer if he took a stack or two, right? 

Phoenix reached into the crate, his eyes locked onto the money before him. 

A hand grabbed Phoenix's wrist and yanked him away from the crate. Phoenix spun around, swinging his Sai, only to come face to face with Shredder. Phoenix froze, his Sais stopping a fraction of an inch before his damaged eye. Shredder was glaring at him, his entire form shaking as his chest heaved with laboured breaths.
"You certainly know how to choose your moments, Songbird." Shredder snarled, his voice heavy, shaky and dry.
Phoenix simply gawked at him. Shredder reached up with his free hand and yanked off the ugly diamond panther mask. He tossed it to the floor as if it were riddled with diseases. Shredder's eyes widened when he was met with Raph's shocked face. He stared deep into the shining eye that was visible to him and his grip loosened a fraction. Phoenix quickly reached up and slammed the face of his helmet back down. Shredder stared at the black screen, his eyes narrowing slightly.
"I will give you this one opportunity to sneak back into your nest, little martyr," Shredder snarled, "This money is money Hun is been hiding from me. Forty percent of it is mine." 
Phoenix leant closer, their helmets just short of brushing, "Yeah, well I've seen six people OD just last week so excuse me for wantin' this crap gone." 
Shredder had to refrain from rolling his eyes, "Burn this down some other time." 
Phoenix scoffed, "Oh as-" 

Shredder wobbled dangerously, his hand letting go of Phoenix's wrist. He tilted back and Phoenix lowered his Sai. Phoenix's hands flew to Shredder's waist, stabilising him. 
"Whoa, Shreds," Phoenix muttered, "I know I'm hot but it ain' like you to swoon." 
Shredder shoved Phoenix away and he immediately staggered. It took a considerable and embarrassing amount of effort to stay upright.
"Do not touch me." He panted. 
Phoenix tilted his head, "You sick or somethin', Bun-Bun?" 
"Silence!" Shredder snapped, "I do not-"

"Well, ain' this a surprise." 
Shredder and Phoenix both turned. Sid was standing in the doorway, a lit cigarette dangling from his lips as a grin crossed his face. 
"I don' think I've ever seen the infamous Phoenix and the Shredder himself in the same room," Sid smirked, "Oh, what a treat." 
Shredder and Phoenix both glared at him. 
Sid's grin widened, "Hun'll be glad to be rid of you too. Oh, and thanks for the champagne, 'dollface'." He winked at Phoenix.
Sid waved, his grin turning manic as he backed out of the doorway. Shredder lunged, his movements sluggish as his vision swam. Sid grabbed the doorhandle and yanked, slamming the steel door shut. Shredder slammed into it and staggered back with a snarl of annoyance. He grasped the handle with both hands and yanked and yanked, grunting with rage and effort. Phoenix watched him, stunned. 
"Shreds?" 
Shredder ignored him. He gave up pretty quickly, his chest heaving as he gasped and gulped for air. He was shaking even more now, his legs quivering as his shoulders fell slack.

A sudden growl pierced the darkness. Phoenix's head snapped around towards the sound, but Shredder didn't seem to register it.
"Shreds." Phoenix hissed. 
Shredder let out a groan as he staggered back, his hand flying to his head. Another growl pierced the darkness.

The grunt of something large picking itself up followed. Then, it stepped into the darkness. A tiger, unnaturally skinny with a thick collar strapped around its chafed neck. It looked manic, its fur matted and its eyes wild. The tiger spared Phoenix a glance before it locked onto Shredder. Shredder still hadn't noticed the tiger, lost in his own world as he fought to not throw up. Phoenix glanced between them warily. 
"Shreds!" Phoenix hissed. 
Shredder flinched as if Phoenix's words had physically struck him.

The tiger, with a hungry yowl, lunged. It leapt, its claws outstretched as its mouth stretched open. Its manic, wide yellow eyes focused on Shredder and Shredder alone. Finally, Shredder turned.

Phoenix's body slammed into the tiger, intercepting the predator's lunge just before it could stagger to the ground. Shredder lost his balance and he fell hard on the ground, curling in on himself as his stomach twisted. Phoenix and the tiger slammed into the ground. Immediately, the tiger was twisting, claws swinging and jaws snapping as it tried to get free of Phoenix's grasp. Phoenix raised his Sai high over his head before burying the blade deep on the tiger's side. The tiger yowled in pain, a sound that made Shredder flinch and curl in on himself even more. Phoenix ripped his Sai out of the tiger and stabbed it again and again and again. He stabbed it until it stopped moving and a couple of more times just to make sure. 

Then, Phoenix forced himself to his feet, his mask and fur coat covered in blood. Phoenix shrugged off of the coat and tossed it across the room in disgust. The vigilante looked at Shredder and froze, taking in how pathetic and small Shredder looked right now. 
"Damn," He whispered, "You really ain' okay, huh?" 
Phoenix tightened his grip on his Sai as he stepped over to Shredder. 
"It would be so easy to kill you, y'know." 
The words had tumbled out of Phoenix's mouth before he could think. Shredder simply moaned in pain and buried his head in his knees. Phoenix knelt down next to Shredder. He grasped Shredder by the horns of his Kuro Kabuto and forced him to move his head away from his knees. Shredder peered at him through half-lidded eyes. Phoenix looked at the way Shredder shook, he saw the sweat glistening the small amounts of skin Shredder showed, at the way Shredder clutched his stomach with both hands. 
"Either I do it now," Phoenix said, raising his Sai high by his head, "Or Hun makes you hurt real bad later." 
Phoenix doubted Shredder heard him. Shredder simply moaned in pain and went slack, closing his eyes as his face twisted in a silent plea for sleep. Phoenix stayed there, staring at Shredder as he tried to convince himself to just stab Shredder. One puncture to the throat and leave him to bleed out. He'll be dead in five minutes, two if he just slit his throat. Shredder let out another moan of pain and curled even further in on himself. God, he looked so pathetic.

Phoenix slowly lowered his Sai. He shook his head as he slid his Sai into his belt. 
"Damn it." He whispered, "Oh, if my Dad could see me now." 
Phoenix let go of Shredder and stood up. He moved over to the door. 

Shredder cracked open his eyes. He watched, his vision blurry as Phoenix fumbled with the lock. He opened his mouth to speak, but all that came out was a wheezy croak. He closed his eyes again, wishing for the pain to end. Shredder flinched at the loud groaning of the rusty steel door being shoved open. He wanted to move, to pick himself up off of this floor and kill Phoenix for the crime of seeing him in such a state. His body felt like it was made of titanium, like his very flesh would crush his bones and crush his heart. His head was pounding and his blood was roaring in his ears. 

Phoenix knelt down next to Shredder. He looked at Shredder for a fraction of a second before he rolled Shredder on his back with a simply shove to the shoulder. Shredder groaned, but didn't fight him. 
"I'm only doin' this 'cause you carried me outta the snow," Phoenix said, more to himself to Shredder, "We're even now." 
Shredder simply groaned. Phoenix slid an arm around Shredder's shoulders and hooked the other under his knees. The masked vigilante hauled Shredder up and held him close against his chest. He let Shredder's head fall onto his shoulder and shifted him so that he could get a good grip on him. Shredder was a little heavy, but it was a weight Phoenix could handle easily. Shredder's body felt like it was on fire, yet he grasped the collar of Phoenix's coat and pressed his body close; shaking like he was freezing. Phoenix let him. He carried Shredder up the stairs, leaving the drugs, the money and the dead tiger behind. Shredder cracked his eyes open and he stared up at Phoenix, shuddering and quaking. He should push Phoenix away, yell at him and stab him for touching him, but he just couldn't gather the strength. 

Phoenix managed to sneak out of the now deserted club and to the Dragon Chopper so easily that it almost made Phoenix second guess himself. Almost. He settled himself down on the Dragon Chopper and sat Shredder up in front of him, making him lean against his chest. Shredder wrapped an arm around Phoenix's shoulders, clinging to him as the cold air bit at him. Phoenix grimaced, but he didn't shove Shredder away. He started up the Dragon Chopper and sped off, not notcing a certain trio of mutant turtles peering down at him from the rooftop below.

Phoenix shot through New York's streets like a runaway train, navigating the icy roads without so much as a slip. Shredder clung to him the entire time like he was his only lifeline. Phoenix parked the Dragon Chopper at the little park that no children play in just across the street from Shredder's lair. Phoenix kicked the kickstand in place, killed the engine and stood, shifting Shredder so that he was holding him properly with one arm. The other got to work fishing one of his Tegaki from his belt. Phoenix paused just outside of the wall surrounding the property and bit back a groan. Shredder's room was on the top floor. Phoenix looked at Shredder; he's going to have to do this with a shivering, over six foot tall man clinging to him. Phoenix sighed heavily and rolled his shoulders. 
"Let's get this shit over with." 
Phoenix shifted Shredder so more of his weight was pressing down on his shoulder and approached the wall. He stabbed the Tegaki into the wall and got to work. 

Scaling the wall was as agonising as Phoenix had expected. It was fifteen minutes of near misses, burning muscles and almost dropping Shredder twice. Eventually, he managed to haul himself and Shredder up over the balcony. He made quick work in picking the lock and stepped into the room. The very sight of it made Phoenix freeze. 

Shredder's room was massive. The walls were painted black, lined with muted gold panels. A gorgous, black chandelier fitted with tear-drop shaped diamonds dangled from a black chain from a black-gold marble ceiling, a grand thing that lit up the room in a warm glow. The floor beneath Phoenix's feet was a stark, dark hardwood that seemed to gleam under the light. The king-sized Jacobean four-poster stood at the head of the room, decorated with a thick black curtain that was currently bound to their posts. It was made of darkwood and had painted gold lining the engravings along the edges of it. The bedding was decorated with velvet, burgundy bedding that was a stark pop of colour amongst the black and gold. Even the Japanese rug beneath the bed was black and gold. 

Across the room from the bed sat a wing-back burgundy armchair, paired with a small bedside table and lamp. It sat before a dormant fire, set at a slight angle so that you could still see the balcony when you were sitting there. The balcony doors were framed with burgundy curtains that had a gold trim running along the edges. 

Phoenix was quickly snapped out of his shock by a dull groan coming from the shivering human in his arms. The vigilante immediately moved over to the bed, the delirious and half-asleep tyrant slack in his hold. Shredder's eyes suddenly snapped open. He shoved Phoenix in the chest and stumbled out of Phoenix's arms. He stumbled away from Phoenix with the grace of a drunk man, his shaking fingers groping at his armour. Phoenix simply watched as Shredder fought with his armour, watching as piece after piece fell to the floor until Shredder was only standing in his bodysuit. Shredder wobbled dangerously and staggered back. Phoenix stepped forward and pressed his hands to Shredder's back to stabilise him. Shredder shouted in pain and jerked away from Phoenix's touch, whirling around. The clan leader lost his footing and stumbled back, but he caught himself on the bedside table. Phoenix simply raised his hands to his chest. 
"Okay, Shreds," Phoenix said, "I ain' gonna touch ya." 
Shredder glared at him for a moment. Then, he turned away and started to fumble with the zipper on his back. Phoenix simply watched as Shredder fought a losing battle with his own clothes. 
"You should get to bed, Shredder-" 

Shredder grunted in annoyance. He reached back and gathered bunches of his bodysuit. With a yank of surprising strength, Shredder ripped the bodysuit clean off of his body and let the pieces fall into rags on the floor. Phoenix froze. His gaze glossed over the pale, muscular skin that covered Shredder's body, at the dark purple scars that claimed almost his entire right side. The scarred skin looked welted and puckered, twisting in grooves like overlapping waves in some twisted ocean The scars disappeared under the waistline of Shredder's tight boxers and swallowed about sixty percent of his right leg. . Phoenix felt his face burn up as he looked Shredder up and down. Then, Raph noticied the ugly black bruise etched onto Shredder's back like a plague. Immediately, Raph thought back to the fight Shredder had with the giant croach and shuddered. 

Shredder tossed back the covers of his bed and practically flopped onto his bed, his delirious state completely abandoning all grace and humility. Hachikō awoke from the movement. He opened his eyes and lifted his head, staring at his master with what Phoenix could guess was concern. Shredder buried his face in his pillow and groaned, curling in on himself like he did back at Hun's club. Hachikō whined softly before turning his attention to Phoenix. Phoenix tensed, readying to defend himself against Shredder's dog. Instead, Hachikō simply whined again and laid his head down. Slowly, Phoenix took a step forward. He grabbed the edge of the duvet and slowly pulled it over Shredder's shaking body as he kept an eye on the dog. Shredder seemed to relax under the warmth that his bedding provided and he let out yet another groan. Phoenix slowly backed away from the bed, keeping his hands where Hachikō can see them. Phoenix stayed like that as he slowly backed away from the bed and towards the balcony, his eyes never leaving Hachikō. Hachikō watched Phoenix go. Only when he had shut the balcony door behind him did Hachikō snuggle up to Shredder's side. he gave the clan leader a gentle lick on the cheek before curling up yet again. His master was safe, that's all that matters.

Chapter Text

Shredder panted and gasped, his sleep fitful as he fidgeted and squirmed. Sweat lined his brow and dripped down his face as he tried to stop his stomach from churning. Hachikō watched from the foot of the bed, having moved in order to avoid getting accidentally hit by his delirious master. A whine escaped his throat as he stamped his little paw, his concern evident. 

Shredder felt like he was going mad. A voice, deep but quiet, muttered in his ear, the words lost to him. The rumble of his ‘words’ felt familiar, as if he’s heard them before. Shredder’s eyes fluttered open briefly as he rolled onto his back, only to clamp shut as he rolled onto his other side. He curled up, his arms encircling his stomach as a moan of pain escaped his lips. 
Hachikō, having decided enough was enough and that he was done with his master’s stubbornness, leapt off of the bed and padded across the room. 

Hachikō brought himself up to stand on his hind legs and braced himself against one of the doors. He leant forward and clamped his jaws down onto the door handle of the door that he wast leaning against. Hachikō then pushed off of the door and allowed himself to stagger back. With a soft groan, the door opened. Hachikō let go of the handle and dropped back down onto all fours. With one final look towards his master, Hachikō raced off out of the room. 

“Please,” The voice muttered, his words slowly becoming coherent, “Don’t do this. They’re just-“

Shredder’s eyes snapped open with a gasp, his chest heaving. He wasn’t in his bedroom, he was sat in one of Hun’s other clubs, leaning back against the velvet booth as he watched a beautiful woman dressed like she came straight out of a 1920s stage-show, singing with a gorgeous voice. 
“-children, Shredder.” 
Shredder turned, his eyes growing wide with surprise. Phoenix was stood next to him, sat close leaning towards him. Their knees were touching and Phoenix had a hand on Shredder’s arm. Phoenix didn’t have a helmet here. Covering his face was a black ski-mask and a pair of black snow goggles. 
“You can’t turn a blind eye on this,” Phoenix begged, “Please. They’re just children.”
“I do not mingle with affairs that do not concern me,” Shredder said coldly, looking away, “That is how you survive in the world I am living in.”
Phoenix shook his head, “Shredder, please,” His voice was choked with emotion, “Hun can’t get away with this. Trafficking women and men is one thing, but children?! They’re innocent and I know you, you wouldn’t hurt somebody without reason.”
In an instant, Shredder had Phoenix pinned against the booth, a Tantō pressed against his throat.
“You know nothing of me.” Shredder sneered, “I am going to let go of you, and then you are going to leave.” 
The Footbots positioned either side of the booth tensed, their robotic eyes boring into Phoenix with a heart-stopping intensity. Why Shredder let Phoenix near him in the first place he didn’t understand. Phoenix has been a thorn in his side since he had arrived in New York. Phoenix reached up and grasped Shredder’s wrist on both his hands. 
“You were a child once,” Phoenix practically whispered, “An innocent, little boy. He might be gone now, but that little boy wouldn’t have deserved what these little boys and girls are going through. Nobody deserves that. I’m beggin’ you, Shredder,” Phoenix’s grip tightened on Shredder’s wrist as his voice shook, “Don’t look the other way on this. You don’t have to come with me, but please, give me anything you have to help me stop this.” 
Shredder paused briefly, before he tightened his grip on his blade. 
“Many have tried to end Hun’s ‘operation’, Phoenix,” Shredder said, “All of them are now dead.” 
Phoenix leant closer, the blade digging slightly it on his covered skin, “I’m not going to just try. I’m going to end it. Please, Shredder. I know you’re a monster, but even monsters have lines they won’t cross. Even monsters have hearts.” 
Phoenix raised his hand. Shredder flinched, the blade pressing even further. A single drop of blood beaded through the fabric of Phoenix’s collar and stained the blade of the Tantō. Phoenix rested his hand flat against Shredder’s chest and he paused, feeling the steady thumping of his heart. Shredder visibly tensed. 
“You have a heart,” Phoenix’s shoulders shook, “Don’t let Hun get away with this.” 
A tense silence hung between Phoenix and Shredder. Shredder risked a glance down at Phoenix’s hand as he slowly lowered the Tantō blade. 
“He’s keeping them at the storage units in China Town. Lots B12 and B13 will most likely have the children, B14 has the men, B15 has the women. A11 is where he keeps the money he gets from the… Transactions,” Shredder turned away, returning his attention to the singer, “The next deal is tomorrow. Use the delivery truck parked in the back of the storage lot. The keys are kept in a compartment under the driver’s seat. Take them to the police station and they will handle the rest.” 
Phoenix slowly removed his hand from Shredder’s chest, “Thank you.” He breathed. 
Shredder didn’t look at him, “Do not make me regret this.” 
Phoenix leant closer, “Nobody will know you helped me. Thank you.” 

When Shredder turned back to look at Phoenix, he was gone. Shredder rose to his feet and strode out of the club, his Footbots trialing close behind.

The drive to the storage units went eerily slowly as Shredder wracked his brain to find out who this Phoenix was. He started showing up not too long ago, patrolling the city after the turtles had finished their patrol. He would patrol for hours, most times going until the sun started to peak out from over the horizon. Then, he would disappear like a ghost. 

Phoenix arrived at the storage units not long before him even with the head-start, which made Shredder guess that he got here on foot. Phoenix noticed him almost immediately and he dropped down in front of him as Shredder parked. 
“I didn’t think you would come,” Phoenix said, “But… I’m glad that you did.” 
Shredder rose from his Dragon Bike, his hands clenched into tight fists. 
“I… Didn’t know about the children,” Shredder said. 
Phoenix nodded, turning his head away, “I know you didn’t,” He said, “I’ve been on this case for a couple of days. This shit lacks your… Charm.” 
“My charm?” Shredder arched a brow. 
Phoenix shrugged, “If you knew about the children from the start, you wouldn’t have told me, because you would have ended it yourself.” 
“You sound so sure of yourself.” Shredder grumbled. 
Phoenix turned away, “Even monsters have hearts. You wouldn’t be here if you didn’t have one.” 
“There is no good in me,” Shredder said, “Whatever you’re seeing isn’t there. I am doing this because what Hun is doing here will reflect poorly on me.” 
Phoenix shrugged, “Whatever helps you sleep at night, Shreds. Now, help me with the gate.” 

Shredder sat bolt upright with a gasp, his chest heaving as he looked around. Footbots were stood around his bed, carrying various medical equipment. A wave of nausea hit Shredder, followed closely by a clenching in his stomach. He leant forward as bile tore its way up his throat. A Footbot immediately shoved a bowl into his lap, catching everything that Shredder threw up. Once he was done, Shredder slumped back against his pillows with a groan. The Footbots beeped at Shredder, but he didn’t acknowledge what it said. Then, the Footbot that gave him the bowl pressed a wet towel to his forehead, beeping again. 
“Leave me.” Shredder groaned, his face contorting into a wince, “Get out.” 
For once, the Footbots ignored him. One of them measured out some liquid medicine onto a spoon and took a step closer, beeping softly. 
“I am not sick!” Shredder protested, “Leave me!” 

Another wave of nausea hit Shredder, making him groan. The Footbot beeped again, holding the spoon closer to Shredder’s face. 
“I am not a child!” Shredder snapped despite the churning in his stomach, “You will stop treating me like this at once!” 
Shredder’s mind swirled, and another groan tore itself from his throat. He retreated back to the ‘mission’ he had following officially meeting Phoenix. It was a chaotic one, one that led to Shredder discovering who was really hiding behind the mask. Phoenix didn’t have his motorcycle helmet then, oh no. Shredder gave him that helmet, after warning him to never meddle with his work again. Phoenix hadn’t listened, of course. 

Why Raph would become Phoenix was beyond him. It just seemed like extra work and Raph didn’t strike him as the kind of man who was willing to put in extra work. 
Shredder squeezed his eyes shut, his body shaking as he drew in a breath. The Footbot beeped again, more insistent this time, and Shredder found himself unable to argue. He opened his mouth and the Footbot gently tipped the spoonful of medicine into his mouth. Shredder forced himself to swallow the medicine as he slumped further against the plush pillows. 

The Footbots continued to fuss over him, beeping to each other say they arranged the pillows around his head and pulled the covers up to cover him properly. One Footbot brought Shredder water, that they had tried to make him drink then and there, but Shredder refused by turning his head away. 

Shredder dozed, his chest rising and falling with heavy breaths. The Footbots left him after a moment, leaving him in the care of Hachikō, who watched Shredder closely. Hachikō let out a little whine; he hated seeing Shredder in this state. Shredder rarely ever got sick, but when he did it was always with something bad. 

Suddenly, the balcony door groaned open. Hachikō was on his feet in an instant, growling lowly and warningly as he stood over his master. Hachikō stopped growling, however, when a familiar scent hit his sensitive nose. 

Phoenix ducked into the room and crouched low as he shut the balcony door behind him. He was holding something close to his chest, something with a cylinder shape. Phoenix rose to his full height once he was sure nobody else besides him and Shredder were in the room and made his way to the bed. Phoenix noticed Hachikō, who was still stood warily over his master. Phoenix held out his hand for Hachikō to sniff, then he presented him with a bone-shaped dog treat. Hachikō immediately perked up at this, his tail wagging enthusiastically. Phoenix tossed the dog treat onto the bed and Hachikō was on it immediately, chewing it with gusto as his tail went wild. Phoenix moved to the side of the bed, the large, steaming cup of tea in its little take-away cup held close to his chest. 
“Shreds.” He called, setting the cup down on the bedside table, “You alive?” 

Shredder didn’t stir or groan. He simply laid there, eerily still despite the way he shook. Phoenix leant closer. He rested a hand on Shredder’s shoulder. Immediately, Shredder’s eyes snapped open. He grabbed Phoenix’s wrist with a force that belied his delirious state while his other hand reached under his pillow. His legs shot out from under the duvet and encircled Phoenix’s waist. He rolled and Phoenix was slammed onto the bed. Shredder’s hand let go of Phoenix’s arm in favour of gripping his throat. Shredder straddled Phoenix, the Tantō blade he was keeping under his pillow held high. 
“Shreds! Shreds!” Phoenix shouted, raising his hands in defence, “It’s just me!” 
Shredder swayed dangerously on top of Phoenix and his grip on his throat tightened. 
“What are you doing here?” Shredder grumbled, “Give me one good reason why I shouldn’t slit your throat here and now.” 
Phoenix gulped, a motion that Shredder felt under his hand. 
“It’s my fault yer sick,” Phoenix said, “I felt bad.” 
Shredder arched a brow, “We are not friends, nor are we friendly,” He said, “You have no reason to feel ‘bad’ as you say.” 
“It was cause of the fly!” Phoenix gasped, his hand flying to the hand around his throat, “That mutant freakshow that tried to eat me! You fought it for me ‘n’ now you’re sick!” 
Shredder’s grip loosened slightly. He glared down at Phoenix. 
“And you think breaking into my bedroom is appropriate?” He snarled. 
Phoenix shrugged, “Well ya didn’t exactly give me a key, Shreds.” 
“Stop calling me that.” Shredder sneered. 
Phoenix shrugged, “Tell me your name, then.” 
Shredder groaned. A mixture of annoyance and nausea spiralled within him. 

Shredder rolled off of Phoenix, his grip still tight on the Tantō blade, landing with a decisive ‘thwump’ on the bed. Phoenix sat up and he reached for the cup of tea again. 
“The lady at the tea shop said this helps with sickness,” Phoenix said, offering Shredder the tea, “Think of it as an apology.” 
Shredder stared at the tea as if it had started talking to him. 
“You got me tea?” He considered slowly. 
Phoenix shrugged, “Yeah, so? I had some money left over from the Purple Dragon I mugged, thought I would put it to good use.” 
Shredder slowly brought himself to sit up. He leant against the headboard and, despite his better judgement, took the tea from Phoenix. 
“…Thank you.” He said slowly, the words feeling alien on his tongue. 
Phoenix let himself lean back against the headboard, too, and he watched as Shredder took a tentative sip of the tea. 
Shredder hummed, “This is a… Unique blend.” 
Phoenix chuckled, “Yeah,” He said, “This place specialises in mixin’ teas together. Yours is Chamomile - Ginger with added honey. ‘For your throat’ the lady said.” 
Shredder hummed dryly. He had to admit, while odd, the tea tasted pleasant. 
“It is…” Shredder considered his words carefully, “Passable…”
Phoenix snorted, “Just say it’s good, Shreds! No need for that formal shit.” 

Shredder hummed and looked away. It was then that he realised that he was dressed in nothing but his underwear. A heat spread over his face, one of pure embarrassment. He shoved the tea down onto the beside table and quickly covered himself with the duvet. 
“Woah,” Phoenix chuckled, having almost been thrown off the bed by Shredder’s sudden movements, “You good there, Shreds?” 
“I am… Indisposed.” Shredder muttered. 
Phoenix’s eyes widened behind his helmet, “Uh, don-don’t worry, Shreds,” He reassured him quickly, “I didn’t see nothin’!” 
Phoenix rose from the bed, “You got a robe or anythin’ ‘round here?” 
“Closet.” Shredder grunted. 

Shredder watched as Phoenix moved over to the closet, his eyes narrowed. 
“Why are you here, Phoenix?” Shredder grumbled. 
“I already told ya-“
“I want the real reason, Phoenix.” Shredder snapped. 
Phoenix didn’t respond. He re-emerged from the wardrobe, a simple black bathrobe in hand. He threw it at Shredder before turning his back on him. Shredder rushed to put it on, eyeing Phoenix as if he was going to turn around and attack him at the drop of a hat. 

Shredder grunted, signifying that he was decent, and Phoenix turned around again. Phoenix moved back over to the bed. He sat down at the foot of it and leant against the post, folding one leg over the other as he crossed his arms over his chest. 
“I guess it’s just… Nice? Having someone know…” 
“That you’re Phoenix?” Shredder finished, his brow arching. 
Phoenix nodded, “Yeah. It gets kinda lonely.” 
“Then why do you do it?” Shredder asked, picking up his tea again, “If you feel so alone, why do you indulge in this persona?” 
Phoenix chuckled, “Because it’s so freein’, Shreds. I get to make up my own rules and be free to do whatever I want.” 
Shredder hummed. He set his tea down and reached out to gently stroke Hachikō. 
“Why a Phoenix?” He asked. 
That earned another chuckle from Phoenix, “It’s a gorgeous bird, y’know? So graceful and beautiful… I’ve always wanted to fly like that.” 
“Like a Phoenix?” 
“Like a bird.” 

Phoenix reached up then and he gripped his helmet in both hands. Slowly, he removed it, revealing his bandaged face. Shredder felt his chest tighten upon seeing the bandages. Raphael turned to look at him, his visibly eye lighting up the room in a soft light as a ghost of a smile graced his face. 
“It seems so free up there,” Raph said, his voice gentle as he turned his gaze to the floor, “You can go where you want, how fast you want,” He chuckled softly, “Like I said, it looks so freeing’.” 
“You’ve always wanted to fly?” Shredder salted tentatively, his finger running over the edge of the cup lid. 
“Yeah,” Raph answered, “But I know it’ll never happen, so what’s the point in dreamin’, right?” 
Shredder simply stared at him, “You shouldn’t be here, as Phoenix or not. We are enemies.”
Raph snorted, “I was trained to kill ya, there’s a difference Shreds,” He replied, “Besides, if you really wanted me gone, you woulda told on me the second you saw my face when we busted up that traffickin’ operation.”
Shredder grunted. He chose to take another sip of his tea instead of responding.  
Raph smirked. He reached back and gently stroked Hachikō, who rolled onto his back and presented his belly with a little wag of his tail. Raph grinned as he gently stroked Hachikō’s belly. 
“I never did thank you for the helmet, did I?” Raph asked. 
Shredder rolled his eyes, “I’m sure stealing my motorcycle is thanks enough.” 
“Oh, yeah, here,” Raph reached into his jacket pocket and retrieved a set of keys. 
Raph threw the keys at Shredder and they landed in his lap. Shredder picked them up and inspected them. They were the keys to the Dragon Bike Raph had stolen. 
“I was just bein’ a prick before,” He said, “I can steal a different motorcycle.” 
Shredder set the keys on the bedside table with a grunt. 
“I best beg goin’, anyway,” Raph said as he climbed off of the bed, “My bros will be getting home soon and it’ll look real suspicious if their beat-up brother ain’t there to greet ‘em.” 
Hachikō whined at the loss of pets, but was satiated by Shredder scratching him behind the ear. Raph put his helmet back on and moved fo the balcony door. 
“I’ll be back t’morra night, Shreds! Any requests?” He asked. 
Shredder rolled his eyes, a slight grin tugging at his features, “If you insist on torturing me, some more of this tea will suffice.” 
Phoenix saluted, “Aye aye, Captain! Adios, Knife-brain!” 
And with that, Phoenix was gone and the balcony door swung shut behind him. Shredder shook his head and chuckled as he allowed himself another sip of tea. 
“You stupid little martyr.” He muttered.

Chapter Text

Raph crept through the sewers, keeping closely tucked in the shadows. His movements were sluggish and awkward, thanks to the wound in his leg. Raph found himself constantly looking over his shoulder as if his brothers would magically appear and bust him. Knowing his luck, they just might. 

Raphael only let himself breathe when he made it to the lair. After a quick look around, and only once he was one thousand percent sure that Splinter wasn't in the main part of the lair, the kitchen, or upstairs, Raph crept further into the lair. He hauled himself up the ladder, his lips pulling into a snarl with every ache and shoot of pain that burned through his body everytime he moved. The mutant constantly looked over his shoulder at the Dojo, silently begging whatever gods that were listening that Splinter would not come out right this second. He allowed himself a gasp of relief when he finally made it up the ladder. He stayed on his knees on the platform for a moment, breathing heavily as the aching turned into a roar. Even furrowing his brow sent jolts of pain through his system. 

Slowly, Raph picked himself up. He leant heavily on the banister as he limped back over to his room, his eyes still flickering over to the Dojo. 
Upon making it to his room, Raph went straight to the bathroom, stripping off his gear as he went. He was left shuddering as he remembered the prior events of the night. The memory of Sid's hands on him made his skin crawl and his stomach churn. It felt like bugs were building nests under his flesh and deep in his bones. Raphael spared a glance at the toxic waste sign hanging from his door before pushing it open. 

The bathroom itself was small. The bath stood against the far wall, taking up a chunk of the space, stetching from the left wall all the way to right wall. A white plastic shower curtain hung from a slightly bent metal rack held up by screws that looked older than Splinter. A rounded showerhead loomed over the bath, attached to the wall by a metal pipe. The showerhead and the taps beneath it were thankfully free of rust and actually had a shine to them. A sink stood next to the bath, pinned to the right wall, sporting a chip on the corner and a rusty pipe. On top of the sink sat a half-used tube of toothpaste, a bar of soap and a red toothbrush. Above the sink sat a simple, rectangular mirror that was suprisingly intact. The toilet was sat in between the sink and the wall closest to the door. On top of the tank sat a roll of toilet paper and a can of air freshener that Casey had brought the first time he came over and never took back. Raph guessed it was some kind of hint, but he really didn't care enough to think about it. 

Raphael shut and locked the door behind him and stood in front of the sink. He stared at his reflection, his uncovered eye wide. The bandages were still clean and there was thankfully no blood seeping through. With a gentle sigh, Raph started to unravel the bandages covering his face. He closed his eyes as he did this, focusing on the rhythmic movements of his hand. Once the bandages had been removed, Raph stood there for a moment, keeping his eyes closed, almost scared to see his own reflection. 
He drew in a deep breath and held it for a long moment. He released the breath slowly and steadily before he slowly opened his eyes. What met him was ugly. The three, neat rows of black stitches cut through his face. He looked at the raised skin that made them all the more obvious and the way his lips swelled around the stitches on his lips. Raph reached up to touch the stitches with a shaky hand, but he stopped just before he did. He dropped his hand in favour of gripping the sink. He ran his thumb along the chip in the sink as he continued to stare, counting the stitches silently. Then, Raph looked at the bruise. The blackened, near perfect hand-print stained onto his cheek. Just looking at it made it throb. It was ugly and it made his cheek swell a little. Shit, he should have put ice on it instead of playing vigilante. Raph grimaced, but he continued to glare at the mark.

When Raph finally tore his eyes away from the mirror, he started to remove the bandages on his shoulder and leg. When they were removed, Raph tossed them to the floor. He counted the stitches that held his wounds closed. His eyes dimmed and his fists clenching tighter around the sink.
Raph drew another deep breath and looked away after counting the stitches for a second time. He turned to the bathtub and climbed in. The mutant positioned himself under the showerhead and yanked the curtain closed.

After a long shower, Raph slowly dried off, carefully dabbing at the stitches to dry them, Raph re-bandaged his wounds with the makeshift medical kit he keeps under his bed and left his room. He thought about taking some pain medication, but decided against it. Donnie would blow a gasget and Raph would get another lecture about proper dosing and professional opinions.

Raph slid down the ladder, wincing when pain shot through his leg upon landing, and slunk into the kitchen, yet again sparing a glance at the Dojo. The mutant yanked open the fridge and scanned its scarce contents. There were four cans of soda, a box of donuts that Mikey managed to get his hands on, two boxes of pizza that April brought them and a near-empty carton of milk. Raph grabbed the carton of milk and gave it a little shake before looking at the date. It expired tomorrow. With a shrug, Raph opened the carton, cocked his head back and started drinking.
Tonight's events had taken a toll on him. God, he should not have given Shredder the motorcycle back. 

"Raphael." 
Raph choked on his milk as he jumped out of skin. He slammed the carton on the ground, coughing and spluttering as he slumped against the fridge. Raph looked up as he covered his mouth with his hand. Splinter was stood before him, his arms folded behind his back and his jade cane resting against the island counter. 
"Splinter!" Raph exclaimed, "Don' sneak up on me like that!" 
"You are supposed to be in bed, Raphael," Splinter said, "Resting." 
Raphael took a couple deep breaths, his eyes falling closed as he rested his hand on his chest. His heart was pounding, and not from the fact he just got spooked by his own father. It was a deep rooted fear that has been gripping him every since he first went awol. The fear of being discovered. 
"I got thirsty," Raph grunted, leaning back against the counter behind him as he folded his arms over his chest, "So what?" 

Splinter looked at his son. Really looked at him. He looked at the bandages that encased his thigh, the bandages that swallowed half of his arm and then, finally, at the bandages that hid half of his face and head. 
"I..." Splinter swallowed thickly as his tail flickered behind him, "I...I need to talk to you, Raphael." 
Raphael arched a brow, his suspicion evident in his one visible eye. Splinter simply looked at him, forcing his tense shoulders to relax. The fact that Raphael, his own son, was looking at him like he was scared of what he would do made his heart ache. After a moment of silence, Splinter turned his body so that he wasn't blocking the path out of the kitchen and indicated to the couch with a clawed hand. Raph pushed himself off of the counter, still eyeing him. He limped over to the couch, his hands clenching into fists at his sides.

Raph basically collapsed onto the couch and slumped back against the cushions. Splinter sat down next to him, his back straight and hands resting in his lap. He shot Raph a look and Raph forced himself to sit up straight. Silence stretched between them. Raph kept his gaze on the floor while Splinter stared at him. Splinter's mouth was slightly open, as if he was trying to come up with the correct thing to say. Splinter wasn’t trying to catch his son’s eyes, he was staring at the bruise on his son’s cheek. The one left by his hand. Raph simply waited, sitting perfectly still as he refused to look his father in the eye. 

Splinter finally looked away from Raphael, instead choosing to stare at his lap. 
“I… Shouldn’t have hit you, Raphael.” He muttered, “I acted out of misplaced anger that is supposed to be directed at Shredder.” 
That got Raph to look at Splinter. He stared at him, eyes wide and mouth agape. Was Splinter… Apologising? To him? Splinter never, never, apologised. 
“You know I never wanted to hurt you, right?” Splinter practically whispered, his voice strained, “I never should have… I never…”
Raph looked away again, clasping his hands in his lap. His cheek throbbed again. 
“I was so… Enraged at the mere idea of Shredder being that close to you… I… I just-“ 
“You hit me.” Raph muttered. 
“I know,” Splinter said, “I shouldn’t have.” 
Raph shifted, the comfy couch suddenly feeling like needles prickling at his skin. Splinter reached out, his hand shaking slightly, to touch the bruise on Raph’s face. Raph flinched away from the touch and shuffled back. Splinter withdrew his hand as if he had been burned. 
“Can I… Can I go back to my room, now?” He asked, still avoiding his father’s gaze. 
Splinter nodded dumbly, “Yes… Yes, of-of course.” 
Raph stood up and almost immediately wobbled in his feet. He caught himself, though, by grabbing onto the back of the couch. Splinter was on his feet in an instant. He reached out to touch Raph, but thought better of it. 
“Do you need help-?”
“No,” Raph said, a little too quickly and a little too sharply than he had meant to, “No, I’m fine.” 

Without another word, Raph turned away from his father and limped away, his hands still clenched into fists. Splinter turned away, too, his ears falling flat against his scalp. He picked up his cane and walked back over to the Dojo, his tail dragging behind him like dead weight. 

Once Raph was finally in the safety of his room, he collapsed onto his bed and buried his face in his pillow. He replayed the conversation in his head, his body stiff and his shoulders tense. His body ached and burned from the overexertion brought on by the evening.

Raph rolled onto his back and threw an arm over his eyes, only to wince when his wound was pressed so he folded it behind his head instead. The mutant stared at the ceiling as he focused on tonight’s events, strongly ignoring dealing with Sid, thinking about every detail like it it had just happened. He thought about how close he was to killing Shredder, about how seemingly genuine in his gratitude when Raph had given him tea, or how almost human he looked when he was sick and bedridden. 
A blush crept up on Raph’s face when he remembered helping Shredder into bed. He remembered the way he so carelessly ripped apart his bodysuit, leaving him in his underwear and his bruised and scarred physique on full display. Raph shook his head as he forced the image out of his head. He rolled back onto his side, tucking his arm behind his head, and closed his eyes.

An hour later, Leo, Donnie and Mikey came home from their patrol. It was eerily quiet, save for the vigilante incident involving that strange masked man. Leonardo went straight to Splinter, while Mikey when straight to bed, muttering about wanting a warm bath. Donnie went straight to his lab without even a second glance at his brothers, muttering to himself about some schematic. 

Leo entered the Dojo without knocking, only to find Splinter sat in the Seiza position in the middle of the floor, a framed picture in his hands. The picture had been taken by Mikey, and it was of all four of them, Leo, Raph, Donnie and Mikey, caught in a rare moment when they’re all smiling. 
“Sensei?” 
Splinter looked up at his son, his eyes wide. He set the picture behind him before turning his full attention to his eldest son. 
“Yes, Leonardo?” He asked, his voice level. 
Leonardo sat down in the same position as his father. 
“I…I have some disturbing news.” Leo said. 
Splinter quirked a brow, “Oh?” 
“I believe that Shredder has a new ally, and that they are at war with the Purple Dragons.” Leo said, his eyes unfocused as he remembered what he saw. 
Splinter leaned forward, “Explain.” 
Leo did. He told his father about what he saw on the rooftop, about his seamless fighting style and clear bad blood between him and the Purple Dragons, and then about Shredder entering the building not long later, only to come back out in the arms of the masked man. Splinter listened intently to every detail, gently stroking his thin beard.

Leo eventually stopped and simply stared at his father, his shoulders square and jaw tight. Splinter’s eyes fell shut as he considered the new information. A minute passed until Splinter finally spoke. 
“Continue to observe. Do not approach this man until you know more about him.” Splinter said, his voice stern and level, “If he is truly an ally of Shredder, then he is dangerous. Go to bed, Leonardo. You need rest for training in the morning.” 
Leo bowed his head, “Hai, Sensei.” 
Leonardo stood up and moved to leave. 
“Leonardo.” Splinter called. 
Leo froze and turned to look at his father, “Yes, Sensei?” He asked. 
Splinter looked at him, his face stoic and eyes cold. 
“Do not tell Raphael about this,” He said, “He needs to heal, and hearing about a new ally of Shredder will make him want to leave the lair and confront him as soon as possible. He needs to rest.” 
Leo nodded curtly, “Hai, Sensei.” He said, “Goodnight.” 
Splinter simply nodded. 

Leo left the room and gently shut the shoji doors behind him, leaving Splinter with his own company yet again. 

Chapter Text

It was cold, he remembered that. The wind had been howling the entire way there, but had settled the moment he had gotten to the storage units. He looked down at the security gate, scouring for any sign of a security guard, when Shredder pulled up on his motorcycle. 

Phoenix's eyes widened behind his goggles. He rose to his full height before stepping off of the roof. He landed in front of Shredder, one hand twitching towards his Sai. 
"I didn't think you would come," Phoenix practically whispered, "But..." He glanced over his shoulder, "I'm glad you did." 
Shredder slowly rose from his Dragon Bike, his hands curling into tight fists.
"I..." Shredder's eyes flickered over to the storage units behind Phoenix, "Didn't know about the children." 
Phoenix nodded, folding his arms over his chest as he cast his gaze downward, "I know you didn't," He answered, "I've been on this case for a couple of days. This shit lacks your... Charm." 
Shredder arched a brow, folding his arms over his chest, "My charm?" He practically scoffed. 
Phoenix shrugged, “If you knew about the children from the start, you wouldn’t have told me, because you would have ended it yourself.” 
“You sound so sure of yourself.” Shredder grumbled. 
Phoenix turned away, “Even monsters have hearts. You wouldn’t be here if you didn’t have one.” 
“There is no good in me,” Shredder said, “Whatever you’re seeing isn’t there. I am doing this because what Hun is doing here will reflect poorly on me.” 
Phoenix shrugged again, “Whatever helps you sleep at night, Shreds. Now, help me with the gate.” 

With that, Phoenix moved over to the gate. Shredder glanced over his shoulder, He debated leaving, letting Phoenix dig the hole deeper until it became his grave. But, something stopped him. Instead, he moved closer, his arms dropping to hang at his sides, and walked with Phoenix to the gate. 

Shredder knelt before the large lock that bound the chainlink gates together. He fished his lockpicks from a small, hidden section in his armour and quickly got to work. Phoenix kept watch, glancing left and right, looking for any sign of the Purple Dragons.
"How did you find out about this?" Shredder asked. 
Phoenix spared him a glance, "I have my ways." 
"Humour me." 
Phoenix sighed, "I watched. I listened," He spared Shredder another glance, "Nothing happens in this city without me knowing about it." 
Shredder looked at him briefly, taking in Phoenix's imposing form as he looked around. 

Once the lock had been successfully picked, Shredder rose to his feet. The lockpicks were put away as Phoenix pushed open the gate. Shredder led the way and Phoenix followed silently. They kept to the shadows, staying in the blindspots of the few and old cameras dotted around the storage lot.
"Where are the guards?" Phoenix muttered. "There's usually guards." 
Shredder looked back at him briefly, "You say that like you've broken into a storage facility before." 
"Is this an interrogation?" Phoenix countered. 
"So you have done this before?" Shredder looked back at him again. 
Phoenix offered him a shrug, "It wasn't one of yours." 
Shredder nodded once, "Good." 

The rest of the walk over to the storage units that Shredder had named was one spent in silence. Both Shredder and Phoenix looked around, constantly searching for any guards. Phoenix's observation had set them both on edge; storage facilities always had guards.

Shredder led Phoenix over to lots B12 and B13. They stood in the little alleyway in the lots opposite, keeping to the shadows. 
"There are cameras," Shredder muttered, "Hun surveys them." 
"More than the usual cameras?" Phoenix whispered back. 
Shredder shook his head, "No," He said, "Hun has the footage re-routed so that he can access it as well." 
Phoenix grinned, "I can take care of that."
Shredder looked at him, his brow arching. Phoenix cupped his hands around his lips and whistled sharply.

Almost, the beating of wings rang out through the air like some unearthly lullaby. Shredder immediately crouched down lower, pressing himself further against the wall on instinct alone. Phoenix grinned at him. 

Birds. Pigeons, crows, ravens, magpies, every kind of bird that calls New York its home flew in. There were at least a dozen pigeons, two ravens, three crows and four magpies. They flew around in the sky for a moment before moving to the cameras. They perched on front of them. They started pecking at the camera lenses and flapping their wings, completely blocking teh cameras' views.

Phoenix turned to Shredder and smirked.
"There ya go." He said, "Problem solved." 
Shredder glanced at Phoenix, "You should have told me that you were a witch, Phoenix." 
Phoenix chuckled, "Not a witch," He replied, "Just good with animals." 
Shredder hummed. He rose to his feet and peered around the corner of the storage unit and looked up at the cameras. He eyed the birds as they blinded the cameras and hummed. He stepped out and slowly eded over too lots B12 and B13. 
"Fantastic." Shredder mused, "This is quite a unique and useful skill." 
Phoenix chuckled, "You don't need to tell me. Now c'mon, let's get the kids outta here." 

Phoenix and Shredder moved over to the lots. Shredder crouched down in front of B13 and Phoenix knelt by B12. Shredder worked in silence, picking the large lock that held the storage units shut. The sound of flapping wings and pecking beaks was the only thing to break the silence. When Phoenix looked at the door, he realised that there wasn't a lock keeping it shut.

Phoenix frowned. He could hear Shredder finishing up with his lock. Nonetheless, Phoenix shrugged and straightened. He yanked open the storage unit. In the lot wasn't children like Phoenix had been hoping. No. It was Purple Dragons. Four of them were sat in the middle of the room on crates, playing poker, while three more of them dutifully counting money. They all looked at Phoenix and grinned. 
"Phoenix," Shredder called, "I found the children!" 
"Great!" Phoenix called back, slowly edging away, "I found something worse!" 

The Purple Dragons started to approach. The four playing poker reached for the knives hidden in their pants and the gunmen flicked the safety off of their guns.
"Get the kids outta here!" Phoenix shouted. 
Without waiting for a response, Phoenix charged. The gunmen raised their weapons to open fire, but Phoenix was far too quick. He slammed into one of the men weilding a knife, knocking him on his ass. Phoenix dropped down and spun around, sweeping the feet of the man closest to him. He fell down hard, too, and received a hard kick in the face, knocking him out cold. 

The sounds of sobbing children and dozens of little running feet caught the Purple Dragons' attention. Two of the gunmen immediately ran out of the unit after them and the sobbing got louder.
"NO!" Phoenix yelled, leaping to his feet. 
Phoenix spun around and kicked up, catching the third man who was weilding a knife in the chin with his heel. He fell into the final knife-weilding Purple Dragon, knocking them both to the ground. 

The gunman raised his gun and open fire. Phoenix rolled right to dodge the bullets as he reached into his belt. His fingers curled around a kunai knife and he wasted no time in flinging it at the man. It buried itself into the gunman's arm, making him drop the gun with a shriek of pain. Phoenix lunged at him. He gripped the man's head and slammed it into the wall, knocking him out cold. 
Phoenix wasted no time. He ran out of the lot, following the sounds of shouting men and terrified children.

Shredder ran as fast as he could with children following him. He had one child clinging to his back and two more in his arms. The ones he were carrying were the youngest, around five to seven years old. There had to have been close to twenty children, with the oldest being between around eleven or twelve. The older children were helping herd the younger ones, and carried the ones that couldn't run fast enough. Shredder could hear the Purple Dragons chasing them, shouting at them to stop, threatening to kill them all if they didn't. The child on his back whimpered and clung tighter to him.
"I wanna go home." He muttered.
Shredder didn't answer. 

Pheonix leapt from rooftop to rooftop, lot to lot, his eyes never leaving the remaining Purple Dragons. They were getting way too close. Shredder was running a lot slower than he could, due to the children he was leading. The Purple Dragons will catch up soon enough. Phoenix picked up the pace until he was slightly ahead of the Purple Dragons, turned, and leapt at them. 

Phoenix landed on top of one of the gunmen, knocking him onto his back and knocking the wind out of him. He lunged at the other Purple Dragon, but he reacted much quicker than his comrades. He fired, forcing Phoenix to dodge and roll right. The Purple Dragon followed, his finger never leaving the trigger. Phoenix continued to dodge around the Purple Dragon, lunging and rolling to avoid getting shot. 

A hand suddenly grasped Phoenix's ankle when he lunged away from fire again, stopping him dead in his tracks and making him fall flat on his front. The Purple Dragon ceased fire, but kept his gun trained on Phoenix. Phoenix turned. The Purple Dragon that Phoenix had knocked down had grabbed him. He reached for Phoenix's other ankle, but Phoenix kicked him hard in the head, knocking him out cold. The other Purple Dragon grabbed him by the collar of his jacket and yanked him to his feet.

Phoenix was spun around and the dragon immediately swung his gun. Phoenix stepped back and the barrel of the gun scraped the goggles instead, cracking the glass in one of them while knocking them askew, partially blinding him. The gunman swung again and Phoenix ducked instinctively. He yanked one of his Sais from his belt and swung blindly as his other hand reached up to fix his goggles. The Purple Dragon stepped back and trained his gun on him again. Phoenix managed to get his goggles straight and immediately dodged right. The bullets shot into the other Purple Dragon instead of Phoenix. The Purple Dragon's gun fell from his hands and a shout of horror and agony fell from his lips. 

Seeing his opportunity, Phoenix lunged forward. The Purple Dragon turned, but he was too late. Phoenix tackled the Purple Dragon down to the ground. The Purple Dragon's hands flew to Phoenix's face. He groped and struggled, kicking his legs beneath Phoenix. His fingers curled around Phoenix's mask and he yanked. The tear of fabric tore through the air as the face of Phoenix's mask was ripped off of his face, leaving only the goggles covering his eyes. The Purple Dragon froze, his eyes growing wide. 
"You- You're one of the turtles!" He shouted. 
Raph also froze, his eyes widening and mouth falling open in shock. 

Something hard and metal suddenly slammed into the side of Phoenix’s head, knocking him off of the Purple Dragon. He landed hard on his side, his vision going fuzzy. He groaned and tried to pick himself up, only for the Purple Dragon to kick him back down. Raph rolled over and the Purple Dragon slammed his foot down onto Raph’s chest. He trained his gun at Raph’s face. 
“The boss is gonna love this.” He chuckled, “I caught the Phoenix!” 
Raph glared up at him. The Purple Dragon’s grip tightened on the trigger. 
“He’ll love your head on his wall.” 

A sound, the small, almost imperceptible sound of a kicked stone, made the Purple Dragon freeze. He looked up. Raph immediately grabbed the barrel of the gun, guided it away from his face and kicked the Purple Dragon off of him. 

The Purple Dragon didn’t let go of the gun. He fell back and Raph immediately rolled on top of him. They wrestled, rolled, kicked and punched, fighting over the gun. It was all a blur of movement. 

A bang echoed through the night and the fighting ceased. Raph blinked rapidly. He focused on the Purple Dragon on top of him, his chest rising and falling with every panting breath. The Purple Dragon gawked down at him. Slowly, they both looked down. The Purple Dragon’s hands were gripping the barrel of the gun. The gun was aimed at the Purple Dragon’s stomach. Blood was gushing from his stomach. The Purple Dragon looked back up at Raph. He went to say something, but all that came out was a gurgly wheeze. 

The Purple Dragon flopped on top of Raph, a final breath escaping him. With a shout of horror, Raph shoved the Dragon off of him and leapt to his feet, his hands furiously trying to wipe the blood off of his jacket. He stared at the lifeless body of the Purple Dragon as his chest heaved and heart thundered. 
“Oh, oh god,” Raph whispered, “What did I do?!”

“Phoenix?”  

Raph spun around. Shredder was standing a few feet away from him, his hands clenched at his sides. 
“Turtle.” Shredder spat. 
Raphael raised his shaking hands to his chest in surrender. 
“Shredder,” He began, “Are the children okay?”Shredder glared at him, “What kind of trickery is this? What, you get me here, place me with the children while your brothers call the police?!” 
“No!” Raph shouted, “No, they - they had no- they had no part in this! I’m acting alone!” 
Shredder continued to glare at him. 
“Trying to frame me without back up is a very, very bad idea turtle,” Shredder started moving towards him, “If what you’re saying is true.” 
“It is!” Raph shouted, “I haven’t lied to you once tonight!” 
Shredder paused. He looked at the two Purple Dragons lying dead on the floor. Raph followed his gaze. 
“I didn’t mean to do that!” He shouted, his voice shaking, “Please, he- he fought me and he was on top of me and- and-!”
Raphael shrunk in on himself, gripping his head in his hands as he gasped for air. 

A hand rested on Raph’s shoulder. The mutant flinched and looked up. Shredder was standing before him. 
“Breathe.” Shredder said, “As I am doing.” 
Shredder grabbed Raph’s hand and laid it flat against his own armoured chest, securing it with his own hand. Shredder took in a deep breath and Raph could feel his chest rising beneath his hand, almost overshadowing the steady beat of his heart. Raph drew in a deep breath. Shredder held the breath, and so did Raph. Shredder released his breath slowly, but Raph’s came out shaky. Shredder and Raph stayed like that for a little bit until Raph’s breathing was steady. 
“The children are safe,” Shredder said, “They’re hiding in one of the rental vans. We’ll get the men and women and drive them to the police station.” 
Raph relaxed slightly. Shredder let go of Raph’s hand and turned away from him. 
“Follow me,” He said, “And we’ll see about getting you a new helmet.”

A chirp seeped through the silence, breaking Raph from his melancholy reverie. Raphael's eyes snapped open and he rolled onto his side. He leaned forward and peered over the edge of the bed. Yūrei, his little crow companion, was stood on the floor by the bed, looking up at Raph with an admiration that Raph wasn't sure he deserved. Nonetheless, a smile reached Raph's lips. He reached down and laid his hand flat against the floor. Yūrei hopped onto Raph's palm, chirping softly, and Raph lifted her up. 

Raphael set Yūrei on the bed next to him and scratched her under her chin. Yūrei sat down, a satisfied chirp escaping her, and melted under Raph's touch. 
"Sorry I was out for so long, Yūrei," Raph said, "You been takin' care of yourself?" 
Yūrei chirped in confirmation, her eyes never opening. 
Raph chuckled, "What did I tell you about sneaking in here? I don't know how you do it, but you'll make my brothers freak out once they find out you exist." 
Yūrei didn't seem to care, she simply sat there, soaking up attention the same way a flower soaked up the sun. Raphael leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss to the top of Yūrei's head, making the small bird chirp in delight. 

Raph's smile didn't last long, but he didn't stop gently stroking the top of Yūrei's head. He stared off into space, letting himself focus on the rhythmic motions. 
"Splin'er hit me." He muttered. 
Yūrei's satisfied chirps and squawks stopped immediately and she looked up at Raph. She stared at Raph's sad frown, at the tears that gathered in the corners of his eyes, and squawked in displeasure. Yūrei wriggled out from under Raph's hand and hopped closer. She nuzzled her little head against Raph's chin. Raph wrapped an arm around her, acting like a little nest for the bird, and closed his eyes again. 
"I fell inta a trap with Shredder, as you already know," Raph went on, "I... Got into a fight with a mutant crocodile in one of the rooms, that's why I'm all wrapped up like a failed mummy costume." 
Yūrei didn't find Raph's joke amusing, but she continued to nuzzle Raph comfortingly.
"I had to work with Shredder," Raph grumbled, the frustration rising in his voice, "Or I woulda-" Raph paused, the word he was going to say lingering on his tongue, before he sighed, "I tried to explain to Splin'er, but he got angry. That's when he hit me." 
Raph raised his free hand and gently prodded the bruise on his cheek. He flinched the second he did and quickly lowered his hand. 

Yūrei pressed herself closer and chirped again. Raphael opened his eyes and offered Yūrei a smile. 
"I'll be okay, Yūrei. I'm just a lil' banged up is all." He reassured him, "I'll be runnin' around like my ass is on fire in no time." 
Yūrei didn't seem convinced, but she simply flapped her wings and settled further against Raph. Raph hauled himself up into a sitting position and moved Yūrei onto his pillow. Raph grabbed his phone and switched it on. A frown crossed his face when he realised the time. 
"I'm gonna go check on Donnie," Raph said, "It's one AM and the dumbass is probably over-working himself again." 
Yūrei chirped again. Raph have her a little scratch under her chin before forcing himself to stand. 

Yūrei watched as Raph left the room. She tucked her wings against her sides and closed her little eyes.

Raphael slid down the ladder, but cut himself just before he could hit the ground. He slowly, tentatively, lowered himself down, using the ladder as support. The mutant winced when pain shot through his wounded thigh, but quickly shrugged it off. Raph limped over to the laboratory. He could just about make out the sharp glow of a computer peeking out from under the heavy steel lab door and sighed softly. 
"Dammit, Don." He whispered to himself, shaking his head. 

Raph reached the lab and heaved open the door, wincing at the loud groaning sound it made. He opened it just enough to slip into the lab and glanced around. The lab was completely dark, with the only light coming from the computer at Donnie's desk. Donnie was sat in his rickety swivel chair, slumped over his desk and using his arm as a pillow. He was snoring softly and had a pencil clutched in one hand. Raph sighed and shook his head as he crept over to his little brother. 

That's when the computer's display caught Raph's eye. It was footage from a security camera. From a security camera in China Town. Specifically, it was footage from when Phoenix broke into the Purple Dragon's club, paused at the moment when Phoenix was perched on top of the stairwell, peering down at the armed men on the roof. Raphael's eyes widened in horror and he looked down at the paper near Donnie's outstretched hand. The page held a drawing that Donnie had entitled 'Enigma'. It was a shillouette of Pheonix based off of the glimpses the camera got of him. There were notes, scrawled in Donnie's hurried chicken scratch. Donnie's writing was usually neat, but when he went on his late-night research rampages, it was only legible to Donnie. 

Raph felt a knot tighten deep in his chest. He slipped. Shit. He slipped. Phoenix has never been seen before, especially not on camera and especially not by his brothers. 
"Shit." He hissed. 
Raphael looked at Donnie. He looked peaceful when he was sleeping; his always working mind finally at rest. 
"You always did stick yer nose into shit, Donnie." 
Raph reached down. He scooped Donnie up into his arms and shifted him so that he could hold him with his unwounded arm. He made sure that Donnie's head was resting on Raph's shoulder before glancing over at the computer. Raph glared at the screen one last time before carrying his little brother out of the room.

Raph limped through the pain, refusing to the bow of his aching wounds. He carried his sleeping brother to bed, Donnie was his priority. Climbing up the ladder while relying on his bad arm with his brother in the other wasn't easy or fun. Donnie wasn't heavy by any means, Raph could lift him with one hand easily, but carrying him now that he felt like his bofy was going to fall apart was horribly difficult. Nonetheless, Raph pushed on.

When he finally reached the top of the ladder, Raph hauled Donnie onto the platform so that he could pull himself up too. He allowed himself a minute of rest, to simply catch his breath, before he forced himself to his feet and lifted Donnie into his arms again.
"Alright, nerd," He said, "I told you desk is for workin' and yer poor, neglected bed is for sleepin'. 
Donnie simply snored. 
Raph tutted, "Takin' up that tone wit' me again? You're lucky I don't beat up unconscious people." 

Raphael reached Donnie's room and paused. He thought for a moment, tapping his foot against the ground as he tried to remember Donnie's door code. It took him a minute to remember, but when he did he rolled his eyes. 
"Of course." He muttered, "Three, one, four, one. The stupid numbers in pi." 
Raph punched in the code and the door slid open with a quiet 'shnk'. 
Raph stepped into the room, hardly glancing at the neatly organised tools and the precariously over-filled bookshelf tucked in the corner. The mutant carried his little brother over to the bed and pulled back the covers. Raphael laid Donatello down and carefully removed his gear. He then set the gear on the floor by the bed and tucked Donnie in, pulling the covers up to his chin. 
"G'night, Don." Raph muttered, gently patting Donnie on the arm.

Raph left the room, making sure to lock the door behind him by putting the code in again. Raphael then went straight back to Donnie's lab, a snarl forming on his face. 

Hun settled back against the plush velvet armchair as he brought a cigarette to his lips. The woman in his lap, one of the dancers from his club, raised her silver zippo lighter and lit it with a practiced flick of her thumb. She raised it to Hun's lighter and put it out and away once the cigarette was lit. Hun closed his eyes as he took a puff, feeling the poweful muscles underneath the shiny skin of the woman's thigh. 
"My tiger is dead," Hun hissed, "The bastard was expensive." 
“You can get a new one, baby,” The woman said, gently playing with the collar of Hun’s silk shirt, “An even better one.”
"Doesn't make it any less expensive." Hun grumbled. 
The woman leant closer, pressing her barely-covered chest against his, "I know a guy," She said, "Friend of my cousins. He can get you a deal of a real pretty tiger. A pretty lil' white one with even prettier eyes." 
Hun eyed her, looking her up and down, "A strong one?" 
"My cousins train them. Their friend gets them. It'll be a real mean one, baby." The woman said, her hand tracing lower. 
Hun hummed, arching slightly into her touch, "Get your cousin on the phone, get my that tiger. Then, we can party all you want." 
The woman's perfectly practiced smile faded, "What," She leaned back, her hand falling flat against his stomach, "Right now?" 
"Yes," Hun said, "Then you'll get a real raise. I'll have you dance in my VIP room until you can get rid of all that nasty college debt. How's that sound?" 
The smile that crossed the woman's face was much more excited, the kind that made the corners of her eyes crinkle. 
"Okay." She breathed, rising gracefully from Hun's lap, "I'll get you that tiger." 
The woman turned and strutted over to the door, her heels clicking rhythmically against the cool tile floor.
"Make sure it's a male," Hun called after her, "They're bigger and stronger." 
The woman paused at the door. She gave her signature, sickly sweet smile and blew Hun a kiss. Hun watched her leave until she was out of sight. His grin faded and he refilled his drink. 

Fong walked into the room, his hands stuffed in his pockets. 
"Boss." He called, "You asked for me?" 
Hun nodded. He took a long sip of his drink as he beckoned Fong closer with a flick of his fingers. Fong stepped closer, glancing around the luxurious room. He eyed the bar and stopped before Hun. Hun finished sipping his drink and set it down on the small table next to him. 
"I want Phoenix dead." Hun said. 
Fong looked at him like he had just grown six extra heads, "But, boss-" 
"I don't care how sneaky or slippery the bird is," Hun spat, rising to his feet, "I want him in the ground, you hear me?! I'm gonna bury him and piss on his grave!" 
Fong flinched and visibly cowered, casting his gaze downward. Hun stepped closer, jabbing his finger at the window.
"Bird boy has been up my ass, Vizioso's ass and even Shredder's ass. I'm doin' us all a favour in clippin' that lil' shit's wings." 
Fong looked up at Hun, his surprise evident, "He's been goin' after Shredder now?" He asked weakly.
Hun nodded, "Oh, yeah, he fuckin' has," Hun picked up his glass again and took another long swig, "He's been stealin' Shredder's motorcycles for a while now. Shredder doesn't share his tech, so he's probably already got money on Phoenix's head. So, if we kill the bird, put his head in a pretty lil' box and give it to Shredder, then we're gonna be winnin' at life."
Fong glanced at the window, briefly eyeing the buildings of the city that never sleeps. He folded his arms behind his back. 
"I'll have some of our best on it, boss," Fong said, "He'll be dead before you can say fried chicken." 
Hun smirked. He flicked his wrist, indicating for Fong to leave. 

Fong stared at Hun for a second before bowing and turning to leave. He made it six steps before Hun called after him. 
"Alive," He said. 
Fong froze and turned, "Sorry?" 
Hun grinned as he raised his glass to his lips, "I want you to bury him alive." 
Fong opened his mouth to respond, but he fell short. He stared at Hun for a moment, before nodding curtly. He left, his hands opening and closing at his sides. 
"I want to hear him scream, okay?" Hun shouted after him, "I'll take that helmet off myself once he's had a nice, long dirt nap!" 
Hun collapsed back into his seat and watched Fong stalk off. He laughed softly to himself as he refilled his drink.

Chapter Text

Shredder woke up early like he always did. The sun had just started to creep out from under the blinds and the Footbots were just swapping shifts. Shredder sat up slowly, expecting his head to scream and his stomach to churn. Miraculously, he felt fine, a little dazed, but fine. 

Hachikō was upon him immediately, his tail wagging so hard that his entire body was shaking. He clambered into Shredder's lap and started mauling his face with slobbery kisses. Shredder sputtered and laughed, gently pushing Hachikō away as he turned his face away from the onslaught. 
"Hachikō!" He laughed, "Stand down." 
Hachikō obediently sat down, though he kept his paws on Shredder's shoulders and his tail still wagged wildly. Shredder hummed fondly as he ran his fingers through his dog's fur. 
"I am feeling much better, Hachikō," He reassured him, "No need to fret." 

Shredder reached up and gently removed Hachikō's paws from his shoulders. He then climbed out of his bed and stretched, the bones in his arms popping lightly. Hachikō watched as Shredder stalked across the room, his tail still wagging. The Shredder dressed quickly, pulling on a tight black bodysuit that covered his body from the wrists, to ankles to his neck. It was made from a smooth, breatheable material that trapped the heat in the cold months and kept him cool in the hot months. The fabric clung to his body, designed to keep his movements quick and smooth. He wrapped boxing bandages around his hands and feet and then slipped on sleek black shoes that were almost as tight as his bodysuit that were designed for stealth. They were tied with silk ribbons protruding from the side of them, designed to stretch up just short of his knees. They were tied in a criss-cross pattern, designed to wrap tight around his legs. The shoes were flexible, designed for quick movements and light steps.

Shredder pulled on the rest of his armour, his motions precise and methodical from practice and memory. He pulled the Kuro Kabuto on, cealing his burned face from the world, and turned to Hachikō again. 
"Come." He said. 
With a delighted yip, Hachikō leapt off of the couch. He followed Shredder out of the room, his tail still wagging.

The hallways were cold and dark, lit only by the torches that hung high on the walls. Gargoyles loomed over head, leering down at Shredder with unseeing eyes and unbiting teeth. Hachikō trotted alongside Shredder, his tail having ceased its wagging, as serious as the most fearsome of lieutenants. The Footbots that passed them bowed deeply to Shredder. Shredder acknowledged them with a single. fleeting glance. The Footbots continued on once Shredder had passed, continuing on with the programming that was burned into their systems. 

It didn't take long for Shredder to reach his location; the throne room. The throne room was a grand, bold, nerve-wracking space. It was made entirely of stone. Double doors guarded the room, made from only the strongest wood - Australian Buloke. It had been stained to a darker, more damning shade. The doors were each five feet wide and twenty feet tall. They were riddled with thin beams of metal twisting over it like a decorative plague. Thick rings almost as thick as Shredder's wrists acted as door handles. The two Footbots standing guard before the doors pushed them open and bowed deeply. Shredder and Hachikō strode into the throne room. 

The throne room took on an irregular hexagonal shape. A single, narrow path stretched from the doors, across the middle of the room and over to the throne. The rest of the floor was nothing but water, though it was currently covered in thick plexi glass. The upper half of the walls and the ceiling was made of thick, strong, two-way glass; you could see out but nobody could see in. The throne itself was a grand thing, perched high on a thick wall of stone. Stairs had been cut into the stone that led straight to the throne itself. The throne was made of obsidian. It had a tall back that narrowed towards the top before stretching into a diamond shape with a circle was carved into the heart of it; something like a Kunai handle. The arms of the throne were thick, flat slabs that stretched from the floor at an odd angle.

Shredder strode towards the throne, his arms swinging and his fists clenched. He ascended the stairs as he has done time and time again before sinking onto the cushions masterfully disguised as stone on his throne. Hachikō sank down by Shredder’s feet, curling up and resting his head on his paws. Shredder leaned back and watched as the sky slowly started to paint the sky from black to pink. 

The doors groaned open yet again. Shredder didn’t look at who it was, he already knew. 
Tigerclaw walked in. He strode towards the throne his paws hanging at his sides. 
“Master.” He called, his voice stoic and stern, “Shouldn’t you be resting?” 
“No,” Shredder snapped, “I am fine.” 
Tigerclaw bowed his head, “Of course.” 
“Where are the others?” Shredder asked sternly. 
Tigerclaw glanced over his shoulder, “They’ll be here shortly.” 
“You came early for a reason,” Shredder snapped, “Speak before I lose my patience.” 
Tigerclaw hesitated. He looked up at his master, his single yellow eye dim with concern and worry. 
“In the traps, Master,” Tigerclaw spoke slowly, choosing his words carefully, “Or-Or rather, after-“
“When my heart stopped?” 
Tigerclaw’s breath hitched. He looked down at his feet, his paws curling into fists. 
“Are you okay?” 
“My heart is beating, isn’t it?” Shredder looked down at Tigerclaw finally.
Tigerclaw avoided his gaze, suddenly finding the pool of water to his right very interesting. Shredder's eyes narrowed. He looked away as he propped an elbow on the armrest and rested his chin on the back of his hand.
"You want to know what happened in there," Shredder grumbled, "You know what you saw and that is all you will ever know." 
Tigerclaw chose to say nothing. He continued to stare down at the water. Shredder rose to his feet, his hands balling up onto fists.
"Have you no trust in me, Tigerclaw?" He snarled.
Tigerclaw winced at the nickname, his face visibly twisting at the mere mention of it. Tigerclaw dropped into a kneel and bowed his head, pressing one paw against his heart. 
"I trust you with my life, Master," Tigerclaw practically whispered, "Always." 
Shredder stared at him a moment longer before a snarl escaped his lips. He sat back down and gripped the arms of his throne. 
"You will rise," Shredder said quietly, "And you will never discuss the traps again." 

Tigerclaw rose to his feet, though he kept his head bowed. 
"Yes, Master." He muttered. 
Shredder closed his eyes, "You will wait outside until the others arrive." 
Tigerclaw bowed yet again, "Yes, Master." 
Without another word, Tigerclaw left the room. Shredder watched him go and slumped further against the throne once the doors had shut behind him.

Donnie woke up with a groan, grimacing at the feeling of cold drool sticking to his cheek. He braced himself, waiting for the tell-tale aches that always racked his body after sleeping in his lab, only for to be met with a refreshing feeling that is only brought by a good night's rest. Donnie slowly opened his eyes and looked around. He was quick to realise that he was in his bed, not hunched over his desk breaking his shell. Donnie sat up immediately, his eyes scanning the messy room as he tried to remember whether or not he had gone to bed. 

Donnie's room was surprisingly clean for how cluttered it was. His bed was right by the door, tucked into the corner to the right and suspended to the wall with three thick and sturdy support beams that Raph had helped him install. The bed was also framed with wooden planks designed to keep Donnie from tumbling out of bed in his sleep. There was a ladder propped against the foot of the bed that was also made of wood. Beneath the bed sat a small, cozy reading nook. A bookshelf overflowing with books in pristine condition, tucked right into the corner directly beneath the head of the bed. There was a Chabudai table pressed against the white wall, decorated with a small lamp with a broken shade that April had taken from the dumpster behind the library. There was also a bean-bag chair next to the Chabudai table, moulded with a permanent imprint of Donnie embedded into it from countless hours of sitting there and reading. 
Across the room to the bed sat a large desk with a computer monitor hooked up onto the wall. Donnie had put it in so that he could work on projects on a much bigger screen that wouldn't fit in the lab. To the left of the computer sat a single door with the periodic table nailed onto it. The door led into Donnie's bathroom. Donnie's bathroom had only a shower, with a frosted glass wall and door that prevented anyone from peeking when he was in the shower. The toilet was by the door on the right and the sink was positioned in between the shower and the toilet against the wall. Donnie had a cabinet beneath his sink that was filled with cleaning supplies, medical supplies and other chemicals that he couldn't fit anywhere else.
Across the room to the door sat a large workbench, paired up with an old wooden bench with a flattened seat. Every scrap metal and tool placed on that table may look like chaos to anyone else, but, to Donnie everything was in its place. 

A heavy sigh escaped Donnie as he realised what had happened. Leo and Mikey never checked up on him and Splinter gave up trying to drag him from his lab years ago. That only leaves one culprit who had brought Donnie back to bed and the culprit should be on bed rest himself. Donnie clambered out of bed and calmly leaped over the rail like he had done hundreds of times. He landed in a seamless crouch on the ground and rose to his full height. He imputted the code to his room and left, moving straight over to his older brother's room.

When Donnie reached it, he pounded on the door as hard as he could. 
"Raph!" He shouted. 
Donnie pressed his ear against the door, trying to hear whether or not he had woken up his older brother. 
"Hamato Raphael open this door!" He shouted louder. 

Raphael leaned back, tapping his pencil against his chin. He was sat on the floor, surrounded by various objects. Various pictures and open books of birds laid around him, as well as a drawing of his Phoenix suit and notes. Raph had also stolen his Turtle Flyer wings and their blueprints from Donnie's lab. Before him sat a sketchpad and around him sat screwed up balls of paper. A frown had settled itself on his face and his brows were furrowed in concerntration and frustration. Raph has been at this for hours, trying to figure out how the Turtle Flyer worked and how he could make his own version. 

Raph ignored the pounding on his door as he tried to make sense of the blueprints again, sticking the pencil in his mouth as he tried to make sense of his little brother's scrawl. 
"You shouldn't be on your feet, Raph!" Donnie yelled through the door, "You're still healing, you moron!" 
"Yeah, yeah!" Raph yelled back, not looking up from the blueprints, "Sue me, Don-A-Tron! You're gonna break yer shell if ya keep fallin' asleep at'cha desk! Go to bed like yer meant'ta and I won't carry you up to ya bed again!"
Donnie snarled from his side of the door, "You are so stupid sometimes! Do you want your wounds to heal wrong?!" 
Raphael didn't respond.
"If your leg messes up don't come cryin' to me!" Donnie yelled.
When Donnie didn't get another response, he stormed off. Raph's teeth dug into the pencil slightly as he continued to try to read Donnie's notes. 

Donnie grumbled as he made his way downstairs, his mind swirling. Why would Raph do that? Why would he carry him out of the lab and up to bed?! Sure, he's done it before, but never when he was so hurt. It was a stupid thing to do, even by Raph's standards. 

Leo and Mikey were already in the kitchen when Donnie arrived. Leo was nursing a cup of tea while Mikey dutifully made breakfast. Donnie walked right past Leo and got to work making himself a cup of coffee. 
"Mornin' bro!" Mikey chirped cheerfully. 
Donnie spared him a glance, "Good morning, Mikey." 
"How'd you sleep?" Mikey asked. 
"I slept fine," Donnie answered, "Raph took me to bed last night." 
Leo arched a brow, "Again? With his leg? Is that why you were shouting at him?" 
Donatello nodded, "Yeah. He's being an idiot, again." 
Mikey shrugged, "He cares about you, dude," He said simply, "What's wrong with that?"
"Him putting himself in harm's way to care for us is wrong." Donnie snapped, "He'll kill himself one day." 
Leonardo said nothing, simply took a long sip of his tea. Mikey shot Donnie a look, before offering him a sweet smile. He turned back to cooking breakfast. 
"Raph's Raph, what can I say," He shrugged simply, "He's strong and stubborn and loves us." 
Donnie was the one not to respond this time.

A shout echoed through the tunnels beyond the lair, instantly catching all three turtles' attention. Mikey shut off the stove and Leo drew his Katana from its holster. he rose to his feet slowly. They waited with baited breath as another shout rang out, one that sounded much closer and eerily like a cheer. 

Casey stepped into view, carrying a case of bear under his shoulder. He was whistling now with a bright grin on his face. He had a backpack on his back that looked like it had seen better days. He paused and offered his friend's brothers a smile and a wave before moving over to the ladder. 
"He cannot be serious." Leo grumbled, slipping his Katana back into its holster, "Drinking at this time of day." 
Mikey simply turned away to continue cooking. Donnie simply glared. Both Leo and Donnie watched as Casey climbed up the ladder with the case of beer still tucked under one arm, before moving over to Raph's door. 
"Oh Raph!" He called cheerily, knocking on the door, "It's your best bud!" 
It took Raph a minute to open the door, but when he did, he looked surprised. He smiled afer a second and warmly invited Casey inside. The door shut behind them. 

Casey looks around Raph's room. Raph's notes, drawings and the blueprints and invention that Raph had stolen from Donnie's lab were gone, hidden away the second Raph had heard Casey's voice. Raphael limped over to the bed and sat down heavily onto it. 
"What brings you here, Case?" Raph asked. 
Casey sat himself down next to his best friend, "Just here to check on my best buddy!" He answered, "Want a beer?" 
Raphael shot him a look, "Case, it's seven o'clock." 
Casey chuckled, "Yeah, I know," He answered, "This is just for later, when you're feelin' like it." 
Raph offered her a grin, "You're a saint, Case." 
Casey set the case of beer on the ground and kicked it under the bed, "Just doin' the lord's work, Raph." 

Raphael looked away and folded his arms over his chest. Casey looked at him for a moment longer, his smile fading as he looked at the cuts on Raph's face. 
"Does it hurt?" He asked. 
Raphael glanced at him, "Not when I'm on meds." 
Casey leaned forward and rested his arms on his knees. He looked at Raph, glancing down at the cuts on the rest of his body. 
"Stop starin', Case." Raph muttered. 
Casey jumped and he immediately looked away, muttering an apology. They stayed like that for a while, sitting in silence, refusing to look at each other. 

Raph was the first one to move. He moved further onto his bed and hugged his knees to his chest. 
"I just can't believe Shredder let you live after all that." Casey muttered. 
Raphael shrugged, "I held up my end of the deal," He said, "What's there to get?" 
Casey shot Raph an odd look before turning away. He yanked open his backpack before rooting through it. Eventually, he found what he was looking for and pulled it out. It was a Batman comic with a missing corner and a stain on the front. Casey waved it in front of Raph, grinning. Raphael lit up once he saw it and immediately snatched it from Casey's hands. He immediately started to read it, his excitement evident. Casey chuckled to himself and pulled out a different comic for himself to read. 

Silence passed between them for a moment, just enjoying each other's presence as they read about Batman's adventures. Raph paused when he reached a certain page, where Deathstroke, a known enemy of Batman, had just agreed to help him. He frowned to himself as he remembered the traps, how Shredder had carried through the rooms, how he had saved him from the FX Bots and how he had carried him through the snow. Raph's frown deepened as he turned the page.

Chapter Text

Casey and Raph were allowed to hang out in Raph’s room alone for about an hour before he knocked on the door. Raph was reading his third comic book when Leo made his presence known and lowered it with a frustrated glare. Just can’t let us live in peace, can he?” Casey muttered. 

Raph shrugged, “You know Leo,” He said, “Never trusts me to ‘behave’,” He set the comic book down and looked at his friend, “Were you at least subtle about the beer?”
Casey shrugged, “Splinter wasn’t there,” He answered, not looking up from his own comic book, “Who cares?”
“We’ll care when Leo rats on us and you get banned from hangin’ out with us.” Raph argued. Casey looked up from his comic book and offered Raph a little smirk, “You won’t quit me that easy, Raphie, I’m too pretty.”
Raphael rolled his eyes and heaved himself off of his bed, “Yeah, pretty fuckin’ ugly.”

Casey simply laughed and went back to his comic book. Raph grinned. The knocking came again, harder this time, and Raph rolled his eyes. Just like Raph had guessed, Leo was stood there with a furious look on his fce and his hands on his hips. 
"We aren't drinkin'," Raph said before Leo could so much as open his mouth, "Save your lecture for when I actually make a bad decision." 
Leonardo's face soured and his eyes narrowed, "It's morning-" 
"Do you listen when I talk-" 
"Can you at least be irrisponsible where I don't have to cover for you?" 
Raphael shot him an annoyed look, "I'm grounded." 
"Seriously, you do stupid stuff and we all get-" 
Raph cut Leo off again, "I. Am. Groun-ded," He sounded it out for Leo, "I can't leave the lair. Just go be oblivious and pretend I'm drinkin' a soda." 
Without waiting for a response, Raph pressed the button to shut the door in Leo's face. Casey burst out laughing, hiding his face in the comic book. 

Raphael limped back over to the bed and collapsed back against his pillow. He brought his feet up and tossed them into Casey's lap. Casey simply shot him a grin.
"I'm glad my sister's still young enough to idolise me," He said, "Your brother's a fuckin' nightmare." 
Raph picked up his comic book and continued reading it, "Don't get me started in Leo, Case," He said, "That I will start drinkin' for." 
Casey snorted, "I'll come back later." 
"You'll bring more beer with you." Raph retorted.
That made Casey laugh again. Raphael simply smirked behind his comic book. 

When the laughter died down, Casey turned to look at Raph. 
"You still feelin' okay?" Casey asked, "Keepin' up with your pain meds?" 
Raph shot him a stern look, "Case, if I wan'ed to be doted and fretted on then I'll go spend my groundin' at April's. I let'chu in here 'cause I knew you wouldn't treat me like I was made of glass. You start with that shit and I'll kick you out right now." 
Casey's grin returned, "Yeah, yeah, asshole," His voice was laced with amusement, "Take my beer and kick me out the door." 
"Bring anythin' better to the table and you can start stayin' for dinner." 
Casey and Raph shared a grin before returning to their respective comic books. 

Shredder closed his eyes briefly as he carded his fingers through the fur on the back of Hachikō's neck. The sounds of the large doors opening filled the air, followed by the sounds of men shuffling into the room. Tigerclaw, Rahzar, Fishface, Rocksteady and Bebop gathered at the base of the stairs leading up to Shredder's throne. 
"Phoenix has been breaking in more recently," Shredder practically spat, "I want security tightened immediately." 
The mutants looked between each other, visibly bewildered. 
"What-" 
Shredder glared at his men, gripping the arm of his throne as if he wanted to choke the life out of it. 
"He broke into my office the other day," He snarled, "He could have stolen anything! And then he had the nerve to call my security sloppy!" 
The mutants, all except for Tigerclaw, flinched. They shared another glance. 
"No post will be left unguarded," Shredder went on, "Every inch of this place will be covered with security. I will not have that little thief break into my home and insult me again!" 
Shredder finished his rant by slamming his fist against the arm of his throne, making Hachikō jump. The dog was quickly soothed by Shredder gently running his fingers through his golden fur. Hachikō rested his chin on Shredder's knee and let out a little whine, but Shredder didn't look at him and kept petting him. He leaned back against his throne and forced himself to loosen his grip on the throne. The bruise on his back immediately stung the second his back hit the throne, but he refused to flinch or sit forward. A single twitch was the only indication of his pain. 

When the mutants didn't move, Shredder slammed his fist against the arm of the throne, making all of them jump. 
"GO!" He roared, "I want this place to become an impenetrable fortress by NOON!" 
The mutants jumped again, save for Tigerclaw, at Shredder's furious tone. They immediately ran out of the throne room as if their asses had just been set on fire. Shredder watched them go, his fingers still carding through Hachikō's fur. The Footbots barely managed to get the doors open in time, even then, they had to jump to avoid the doors slamming into their shoulders. Shredder sighed and closed his eyes again. 
Hachikō hopped up onto his hind legs and rested his paws on Shredder's legs. He whined, raised a paw and smacked Shredder's leg. Shredder looked at him and simply quirked a brow at him. Hachikō whined again.
"Hachikō," Shredder sighed, "Do not start with me." 
Hachikō whined again, but he dropped back down and settled himself back at Shredder's feet. Shredder petted him again before rising from his throne. He moved to leave the room and whistled sharply. Hachikō leapt to his feet and followed closely. 

Shredder stormed back through his lair, his hands curling into tight fists. Hachikō trotted along after him like a disciplined show pony. The Footbots that they passed were moving frantically, desperate to fulfil their orders. Shredder hardly spared them a glance as he mapped out his busy day in his head. 

Raph's day passed in a blur of comic books and roaring laughter. Casey left at two, saying something about picking up his little sister, though he left the beer for Raph to enjoy, the comics as well. Raphael continued on with reading comics and even cracked open one of the beers. 

By nightfall, Leo, Donnie and Mikey showed up to tell Raph that they were going out for patrol. An hour later, Raph was going out for his own patrol. The mutant set all of the comics that Casey had left him in a stack by the head of the bed and snuck out of his room. 

Splinter wasn't anywhere in sight; he was still in the Dojo or maybe his bedroom. Raph snuck anyway. He crept down the ladder, biting his lip to keep from crying out everytime his wounds stung. Raph didn't let himself breathe until the abandoned train lines outside of their lair was out of sight. He wove through the sewers with the confidence of a man who spent his entire life in them. He reached the nearest manhole and scaled the ladder slowly, as if a single groan from the rusted old metal would summon Splinter in an instant. 

Raphael clambered out through the manhole and shoved it back into place. He immediately moved over to the fire escape, yanked down the ladder and started scaling the building. Once on the roof, he crouched down on the parapet and drew in a deep breath, closing his eyes as he went. He could feel the cold wind billowing around him and the icy snow underfoot. When he opened his eyes, he looked out at the city, simply admiring it, before he straightened up. Raph jumped and flipped through the New York streets, every motion quick and every flip executed easily. 

Upon reaching his little hideout, Raphael shoved open the window and clambered in. He wasted no time in dragging his suitcase out from under the rotten bed opened it with a wide, excited and almost childish grin plastering itself over his face. Raph dressed quickly, finding comfort in the tightness of his jacket and the weight of his helmet. 

Once dressed, Phoenix reached into a little pocket that was sewn into the lid of the suitcase. He pulled out three crumpled up bills, a five and two singles and stuffed them into his jacket pocket before straightening up and leaving. He whistled as he climbed out of the window and scaled the fire escape. Yet again, he found himself racing through the cold, flipping in between alleys and practically flying through the night sky. 

It didn't take Phoenix long to get to the little cafe that was quickly becoming one of his regular haunts. It was a little place perched on a street corner called 'The Midnight Hour Cafe'. It was a little place that was run by a cute couple who started up the business only a couple years ago. The front door was a single wooden door that had a large pane of glass that swallowed almost all the door. A crescent moon sat on a curve of dark purple clouds that was surrounded by starts were printed on the window of the door with 'MH' settled in the curve of the moon in big silver letters. There were a few square-shaped tables lined up on the window of the left, tucked under a navy blue awning. One table was painted a dark, navy blue, one was a deep rich purple and the other was a deep stormy grey. Each of the tables were paired with a a small vase that held a single flower and a couple of chairs that matched the table colour. The coffee shop had large windows, but the wood that acted as their frames were painted a deep purple. The window to the right had the cafe's logo, though much bigger, stamped on it while the window on the left was broken up into three sections, each one decorated with beautiful artwork. The one on the left depicted a night sky, fitted with a crescent moon, stars and swirling clouds. The middle window depicted two women enjoying a conversation and coffee sat at a little table. The window on the right was a simple painting of a cup of coffee and a little plate holding a chocolate chip cookie that had a bite taken out of it. 

Phoenix stepped into the coffee shop, smiling slightly as the little bell jingled overhead. The floors were made up of dark blue and purple checkered tile. The walls themselves were painted a soft grey. Directly opposite the door sat the counter where orders were made and drinks were prepared. It was made of dark oak that had little strips of gold framing the panelling. A large glass case that showcased all of the pastries and treats that the cafe offered, each one made right here from scratch in the cafe. There was a shelf stretched like a crescent moon on the wall behind the counter that was filled with a variety of sauces, a jar of marshmallows, sprinkles and chocolate chips as well as canisters of cinammon or other spices. 

To the left, pushed up against the wall sat an array of booths. There were five velvet booths with hight backs, each set up with a darkwood table. Three of them were a gold colour and the other two were a shadeo of grey that reflected the lights overhead. Sharing the wall with the counter, though nestled in the corner, was the door leading to the bathroom. To the right sat three smaller tables just like the ones outside, though they were nestled close to make them fit. Beautiful pictures of the people in New York and various shots of people enjoying their coffee in the caf itself were lining the walls, each of them framed in gold. 

There weren't many people in the cafe, just three college kids slumped in one of the booths, sipping coffee and muttering about a project they had to turn in and a barista who looked like they had gotten far too used to working late than should be possible. Phoenix walked over to the counter and nodded curtly at the barista when he offered Phoenix a smile. Phoenix looked up at the menu. 
"What can I do you for?" The barista asked.
Phoenix hummed, "Can I get that Thyme-berry tea?" He asked, "What's in that again?"
The barista offered Phoenix a patient smile, "Elderberry and Thyme. Tastes great with a little honey. Good for some-one who's not feelin' their best." 
Phoenix smiled a little, "Better make it a large, then, thrown in some o' that honey too," He glanced at the little display cabinet as he felt the notes in his pocket, "And that caramel brownie too." 
The barista smiled and nodded, "Comin' right up." 
Phoenix handed the barista his seven dollars and got seventy five cents back. 

The tea didn't take all that long to make. The barista put the brownie in a little paper back with the cafe's logo on it while the water boiled and he mixed the teas and honey together with the practiced ease of a man who's done it a hundred times. When it was made, the barista handed Phoenix the tea and his brownie with a practiced smile. 
"Have a nice night!" He said cheerily. 
Phoenix gave him a curt nod, wished him a good night and walked out. 

Phoenix walked down the street with the tea in one hand and the pastry bag in the other. He whistled a soft tune as he went. A little robin flew down from its nest on a corner of a building parapet and perched on the top of Phoenix's helmet. It sang right alongside Phoenix's whistling and that earned it a laugh from him and a little bit of birdseed Phoenix kept on him at all times. The robin stayed with Phoenix for a couple of blocks before flying off, the song still escaping its little beak. 
Phoenix paused to watch it go. 

The quiet ‘clnk’ of a kicked can immediately caught Phoenix’s attention. Slowly, he turned his head to look into the dark alley that he had stopped in front of. Phoenix waited for a moment, listening for another sound. None came. 
“I know you’re there.” He said, his grip tightening ever so slightly on the warm takeout cup in his hand. 
Still no answer. No sounds of padding feet from scurrying rats, just the sound of silence as whatever was watching him held their breaths. 
Phoenix sighed and turned his full body to face the alley. 
“You need to breathe eventually,” Phoenix called, “You want me to walk away and jump me from behind, don’t you? I’ve got time before this tea goes cold ‘cause I don’t think you’ll last long enough for me to get to the end of the block before you need to breathe again. So I’m gonna stand here until you can’t hold your breath anymore, and then I’m going to beat the shit out of you.” 
Silence yet again.

Then, figures shot out of the dark. Six of them, all of them harboring Purple Dragon tattoos - The Loong, portrayed in purple ink. The one in the lead had a Loong curling around his neck, while three others had them on their arms and the remaining two had them twisting around their chests. Phoenix simply sighed. 

The leader of the six Dragons lunged right at Phoenix, swinging his bat while the remaining five circled him. Phoenix brought his hand up, blocking the bat with the back of his hand while he still clutched his beloved brownie in his hand.  The man's arms visibly jolted at the sudden, jarring stop and Phoenix used that second of processing to raise his foot and kick the man as hard as he could in the stomach, sending him flying back. Phoenix then tossed the tea and the brownie up in the air. 

The man to Phoenix's left lunged at him, his fist swinging. Phoenix stepped back and grabbed the man's wrist while his other hand grabbed the Dragon's jacket. He spun him around, lifting the man off of his feet, and threw him into the two to the right. The three of them went crashing to the ground. Phoenix ducked under a right hook from one of the few man standing and stayed low while spinning around. He punched the man in the side, making him buckle with a grunt of pain. Phoenix then kicked the man in the knee before grabbing the man by the back of the head. He slammed the man's face into the concrete with a sickening crunch, sending blood spurting out of his nose. Then Phoenix lunged at the last man, who only managed a gasp of horror, and slammed his knee into his stomach. The man doubled over in pain and Phoenix took the opportunity to elbow the man in his stomach. The man's nose broke with a loud crunch and blood immediately started gushing from his nostrils. He fell down hard. 

The entire fight took a couple of seconds. Phoenix striaghtened and stretched his arm out behind him and caught the tea cup he had just thrown up into the air. He then turned and held out his hand and the brownie landed flat in his hand. Phoenix tossed the bag up again and grabbed it by the brim of the bag. He looked down at the men on the floor and shook his head. 
"Thanks for the work-out." He said, "But next time put up more of a fight." 
Phoenix wiggled his fingers at them as a goodbye before continuing down the street. 

A few minutes later, Phoenix found himself standing in front of Shredder's lair. There were four Footbots lined up at the main entrance with their metallic arms folded behind their backs. Phoenix crept along the roof, tea and brownie in hand. Security had certainly improved. There were several Footbots lining the roof of the building now and each of them were brandishing weapons. 
Phoenix hummed. He dropped down into the alleyway, landing in a seamless but not painless crouch on the ground below. The masked man snuck further down the street and towards the back of the lair, keeping in the shadows as he constantly glanced up at the rooftop. He crept closer to the wall that guarded the garden that was nestled at the back of the property.

Phoenix shifted the brownie into the same hand as the tea and yanked one of his Tegaki from his belt. He scaled the wall, straining with effort as he dragged himself up higher and higher. Once he reached the top of the wall, Phoenix crouched down low and pressed himself against the building's wall. The garden was dark, but Phoenix could just about make out the Footbots patrolling the area. They too were brandishing weapons. Phoenix looked at the Footbots one more time before he started to scale the wall. He clambered around to the side of the building and towards Shredder's office.

Shredder grumbled to himself as he strode through the hallway. He had a drink of Sake in one hand and a report from the upgrade in security in the other. His brows were knitted in frustration and his lips were pulled into a taunt line. He currently had Stockman down in the lab fixing up some upgrades for the Footbots and Tigerclaw had overseen a brand new security system being installed. 

Shredder stepped into his office and paused in the doorway to re-read another passage in Tigerclaw's report. 
"I know you're there, Phoenix." He said, "How did you get in here?" 
When Shredder didn't receive a response, he flicked on the light. Phoenix was sat in his office chair with his feet folded over the desk. The tea was sat on the desk, still warm, and the brownie had been long since eaten. 
"Feelin' better?" Phoenix asked. 
"Get out of my chair and answer the question." Shredder didn't look up from the report as he moved further into the room. 
Surprisingly, Phoenix rose from the chair. Shredder set his glass of Sake down and claimed his seat. He spared a glance at the tea cup. 
"What concoction have you brought me this time?" He asked. 
Phoenix picked up the glass of Sake, "Elderberry and Thyme with honey," He answered, leaning against the desk, "Shouldn't you be in bed?" 
Shredder flipped the page, "Shouldn't you be in a bodybag?" 
Phoenix shrugged, "Only if you'll do my eulogy." 
Shredder rolled his eyes. He removed the mouthpiece of his Kuro Kabuto and picked up the tea. 
"What are you here to steal this time?" He asked, "You didn't break into my office just to bring me tea." 
"I already told you I'd bring you tea tonight." 
"You broke into my bedroom last time." 
"Your bedroom has fifteen Footbots guardin' it like its the damn crown jewels." 
"My bedroom is worth more than the crown jewels." 
"Did you get the crown jewels second-hand?" 
Shredder shot Phoenix a glare as he set down his tea. He could feel Phoenix's grin through his helmet and that just hardened his glare further. 

Phoenix sat himself on the edge of the desk. He sat down the Sake and reached up. Shredder watched as Phoenix took off his helmet and set it down on the desk. Raph then grabbed the glass and brought it to his lips. 
"Are you stealing my drink?" 
Raphael looked at him, "I bought you that tea, I get the Sake. I paid for that," He pointed at the tea, "You paid for this," He pointed at the Sake, "Fair's fair." 
Shredder rolled his eyes but turned his attention to the report. Raph nodded at the report. 
"What's that?" 
"A report on the security system I had installed," Shredder explained, "To keep you out." 
Raph tutted, "I hope you got'cha money back, honey, you got scammed." 
Shredder sighed, "Leave." 
Raphael shook his head, "But I ain' robbed ya yet!" He exclaimed, "Or finished my Sake!" 
Shredder huffed, "My wallet is in the dresser and the Sake bottle is in the bar room down the hallway now get lost." 
Raph shook his head, "I'll get those in the way out," He said, "Annoyin' you is way funnier." 
Shredder had to close his eyes to stop himself from rolling them. He picked up his tea and took a long sip. 
"You are lucky this tea is good." He commented. 
Raph hummed, "Lucky's my middle name, honey," He retorted.
"You should get it legally changed to 'Frustrating', it will fit better." 
Raphael chuckled, "Only if you'll get it changed to 'Asshole', we'll go to the courthouse and make a day of it." 
Shredder watched Raph as he took a long sip of his Sake. 
"Is irritating me the only joy you get in your life?" He asked. 
Raph shrugged, "My Dad grounded me," He answered, "So yes." 
Shredder looked him up and down, "You don't look very grounded." 
"Doesn't make it any less frustrating," Raph answered with a shrug, "Then again, Splinter grounds me like it's going out of fashion." 
"Next time he should try chaining you to a lamppost," Shredder hummed, "Then the next time you whine like a dog you'll fit the bill." 
"Then I'll make sure the lamppost is outside of your window so I can keep you up at night." 
"Good luck with that," Shredder answered, "I have an Akita Inu, barking is hardly a new experience." 

Raphael turned away as he took another long sip of the Sake. He examined the office with a bored gaze, his mind already sturring up a storm that made him unable to focus on the bland decor. He was sitting in Shredder's office drinking alcohol, while Shredder read a report and drank tea that Raph paid for. Raphael's stomach churned and he couldn't tell whether or not it was from drinking the Sake to fast or from the bizzare situation he found himself in. 
"The Purple Dragons were in your territory." 
The words slipped from Raph's mouth before he could even realise it had opened. 
"That is nothing new." Shredder answered calmly. 
"They tried to kill me." 
"When don't they?" 
Raph turned to Shredder. Shredder hadn't looked up from his report and he was taking another sip of his tea. 
"This was different," Raph argued, setting down the glass, "Controlled. The Purple Dragons don't do control." 
Shredder still didn't look at him. Raphael frowned. 
"What if they found out that we were responsible for busting their trafficking ring?" 
That got Shredder's attention. He looked at Raph, his mismatched eyes widening as if he had completely forgotten about that night. Raph watched his scarred face shift from surprise, to thoughtfulness and finally decisiveness in a matter of moments. 
"Impossible," He dismissed, returning to the report, "I burned the footage myself and wiped the server it went too. The witnesses won't say anything for their own protection and I killed the Purple Dragons you didn't.”
A coldness pooled in Raph’s stomach, making it churn with discomfort. It felt like a stone had settled on his chest. Despite this, Raph shot Shredder a glare that could melt the Antarctic. 
“I didn’t mean to kill him.” He said quietly. 

Shredder tossed the report onto the desk and rose, setting the tea down with a soft ‘thnk’. He moved around the desk and Raph watched him with wide, wary eyes. He stopped in front of Raph and leaned forward so that they were the-level. 
“But you did.” He said, his voice eerily calm and level, “You killed him, Raph.” 
Raphael looked away, his eyes falling closed as he recounted the events. The bang of the gun… The blood…The way the man’s body just went slack… 

A hand grasped Raph’s jaw and he was forced to turn his head. His eyes flew open, only to be met with Shredder’s stern stare. 
“Pretending that you didn’t will not make the fact fiction, Raph,” Shredder said calmly, “You killed a man.” 
Raph shook his head, “I-I didn’t mean to!” He shouted, his voice quaking, “It-It just- It just-“ 
“It just happened? I know,” Shredder let go of Raph’s face, “But not everybody deserves mercy.” 
Raphael’s horrified face hardened into a glare. He yanked his Sai from his belt and clutched it in a tight fist. He raised it, aiming the blade at Shredder’s exposed throat.
“How about you?” He spat, “Do you deserve mercy?” 
Shredder blinked, his gaze flickering boredly from the Sai to Raph, “I deserve many things,” He said, “But the question is, are you prepared to strike me down like how your father trained you to do.” 
He leant closer until the blade actually pressed into his skin. Raph’s eyes widened slightly. He opened his mouth to speak, but no sound came out. 

Shredder raised his hands slowly. With one hand, he lowered the Sai while the other came to rest in his shoulder. 
“You have my respect, Raph.” He practically whispered, “Few people hold that honour. Even fewer alive.” 
Raph closed his eyes, “I don’t want your respect.” 
“Then why are you here if not to prove something?”
Raph didn’t answer. He couldn’t; he didn’t know why he was here. His Sai dropped from his now loose grip and it fell to the floor with a clatter. 
“You intrigue me,” Shredder went on, “Truly.” 
Raphael shuddered, and he gripped the desk instead. 
“Look at me.” Shredder requested. 
Shredder removed his hand from Raph’s shoulder. Raph’s shoulders immediately fell. Shredder waited, his gaze never leaving Raph’s face. 

After a moment, Raph opened his eyes. They were bright, warm, glowing with a warmth that carried something more than rage. More than war. Shredder started at them, at the way they seemed to be a light source in their own. They were wide, slightly fearful, as they gazed into the dim, calculating eyes of the Shredder. 
“Perhaps a more in depth discussion is in order?” Shredder thought out loud, his eyes never leaving Raph’s, “I have questions for you, and I think you think the Purple Dragons attacking you this evening is more than it seems.” 
Raph let out a scoff, but it was breathy and came out more like a huff. 
“What?” He said, trying to keep his voice level, “Wanna invite me to dinner?” 
“That depends,” Shredder hummed, “Have you had dinner?” 
Raph hadn’t. He and his brothers normally all had dinner together when they got back from patrol. 
“I’m not having dinner with you!” Raph snapped. 
Shredder shrugged and stepped away, “As you wish,” He said, “Then we can discuss your frets on a later date.” 
Shredder settled himself back into his chair. 
“I’ll turn away,” Shredder said, “And you’ll leave.” 
Without waiting for a response, Shredder turned his chair so that his back was to Raph. 

Raphael hopped off the desk and picked up his helmet. He put it on with a bit more force than necessary and picked up his Sai.
“Oh, and Phoenix?” Shredder called, his back still turned. 
Phoenix looked up. Shredder had the tea in hand again and he was holding it up in a way that Phoenix could see it. 
“I liked this blend,” He said, “Though the chamomile-ginger concoction is much preferred.” 
Shredder received no response. When he turned to face the room, Phoenix was gone. Shredder smirked, bringing the tea to his lips. 
“Until next time, little martyr.” He muttered.

Chapter Text

Phoenix crouched low on the gargoyle, resting his arms on his knees. He had a bottle of Sake in his hand, which he had looted the moment he left Shredder's office. Shredder had told him to take it, so what was the harm? If he threw a fit, Phoenix would just remind him that he could have taken his wallet too. He watched as the Footbots below him walked down the hallway, continuing on with their rounds. He stayed perfectly still as the Footbots rounded the corner and out of view, only then did he look around the long hallway. There were cameras attached to the underbellies of some of the gargoyles. The lights in the cameras were red, which meant that, if Phoenix's memory served him correctly, meant they were nightvision cameras. 

Phoenix continued to look between the cameras as he hooked the Sake onto his belt. Then, he jumped, kicking off of the gargoyle in one fluid, silent movement. He reached the next gargoyle and his feet barely brushed it before he was leaping to the next one. He continued on like that, each movement fast and fluid, a reflection of years of practice.

He flipped over cameras, unseen by the Footbots that were built to protect the very place he was invading. After a while, he cae to a stop, crouching low on the neck of a gargoyle. Yet again, Phoenix looked around. His gaze landed on a set of double doors just a little ways down the hall. Phoenix recognised those doors; it was Stockman's lab. A smirk crossed his face. Stockman. 
"I got a bone to pick with you, fly." He muttered. 
Then, Phoenix moved. He launched himself towards the door, flipping once to arch over the camera as it turned its metallic head. 

Phoenix rolled when he hit the ground and his feet forced one of the doors open with a dull 'thnk'. He rolled into the room and the door swung shut behind him. 

Phoenix was met with a large, laboratory that appeared to double as a medical room. To the left, a large section of the floor was made up of porcelain tile, white and grey, that nearly took up the entire left wall. Four medical beds, each with a single bedside table that held a single drawer and a lamp on top, lined that section of the room. The beds were neatly made, lined with large sheets of tissue that stretched over a single pillow. The wall to the left of the door held a marble cabinet that sat atop a row of cupboards and under another row of cupboards that were pinned to the wall. There was a sink built into the counter and a dispenser for disinfectant and soap settled either side of that sink. Batten lights were pinned to the ceiling over this section of the room, which were currently switched off. 

To the right lay a large workbench that was so messy that if Donnie took a single look at it, he would faint on the spot. The desk was littered with pages and tools and a single computer with a keyboard so overused that the letters on the keys were fading or completely gone. Materials - metals, wood, even some plastics and fabrics, were stacked around the desk, not even labelled. 

In the middle of the room sat a large, C-shaped control panel that was riddled with screens, keyboards and a variety of buttons, levers and dials. Baxter Stockman was currently buzzing about the control panel, muttering to himself. The rest of the room was dedicated to a large hunk of machinery that made the Footbots. A row of endoskeletons were lined up to the left, standing soullessly still as some robotic hands meticulously applied the wiring and other internal mechanisms that made them function. There was a currently dormant claw attached to the wall in between this row and a large conveyor belt. The conveyor belt disappeared into a large machine, which Phoenix guessed was where the endoskeletons got their bodies. To the right of this machine sat even more dormant robotic limbs, each holding various fabrics or tools necessary for making clothes. This was where the Footbots got their uniforms. 

Phoenix simply watched the dormant machine for a moment, a part of him fascinated. Then, he returned his gaze to Stockman. Stockman was buzzing around the control pannel, muttering to himself as he read a report on the tablet in his hands. His head twitched with every sound he made and his wings were flapping so fast they were invisible. Phoenix spared a glance at the materials. There, he spotted a few metal poles that looked like they were made for scaffolding. Phoenix glanced at Stockman again before going over to the materials. 

Stockman muttered to himself as he finally landed, his wings folding behind his back. His large eyes were glued to the screen; he was completely engrossed. A simple tap on his shoulder made him look up. He turned. 
"Yezz-?" 
Phoenix swung the metal pole, catching Stockman in the side of the head with a loud 'CLANG!' Stockman dropped, knocked out cold from the single strike. The tablet fell with a clatter and the corner of the screen cracked. Phoenix rested the pole on his shoulder and leaned over Stockman, resting a hand on his hip. 
"Jackass." Phoenix muttered. 
He spared a glance at the report; it was just a list of codes and functions that would go into some 'upgraded' Footbot models. As long as they didn't bleed like those FX Bots, Phoenix didn't care about the new updates. Phoenix simply moved back over to the materials. He whistled softly to himself as he looked them over. 

Phoenix grabbed a large sheet of fabric and laid it flat on the floor. He then laid the pole he had justed used to knock out Stockman on top of it. Phoenix got to work, selecting certain materials that he thought would be useful, as well as some tools. All of which were set somewhat neatly on the fabric. He even grabbed a few more sheets of fabric, one of which he set to the side, before deciding to grab a tool box for the tools to sit in. Then, he wrapped up the fabric sheet around everything in the pile in a way that would hold strong. He then picked it all up and held it to his back with one arm. He wrapped the fabric sheet that he had set aside around the bundled up materials and his own torso, tying it like a sling. Once Phoenix was sure that it was secure, he turned back to Stockman. He was still down, unmoving, save for the slight twitch of his wings. Phoenix left him there. 

He crouched down at the door and opened it a crack. The camera had turned away at that moment, and Phoenix immediately dove out of the room. He scaled the pillar by the door with an unnatural ease and kicked off of it. He flipped once before landing in a crouch on the gargoyle opposite. Phoenix crouched low and looked around, waiting to see if any Footbot would continue its rounds. A few actually did, rounding the corner in perfect formation with their weapons in hand. Phoenix tucked himself further into the shadows as he watched them continue down the hallway. They passed by Stockman's lab like it didn't exist; clearly Stockman didn't like being interrupted while he worked. 

Phoenix smirked to himself. He turned, watched as the Footbots disappeared from sight, before leaping to the next gargoyle, moving in the direction of the garage. 

Once Phoenix got just round the corner to the garage, he heard voices. He paused again, pressing himself further into the shadows. He recognised those voices, the deep rumble of a voice that belonged to Rocksteady was unmistakable. Then, there was Bebop, his tone unnecessary loud and boisterous. It's a wonder that Shredder let him into his clan, even if he was a well-respected thief.

Phoenix watched as said mutants rounded the corner. 
"Damn!" Bebop exclaimed, "Is it just me, or did Don Vizioso get even uglier?" 
Rocksteady shot him a stern look, "Must you talk so badly about business partner for the boss?" He grumbled, "You'll get in trouble." 
Bebop shrugged, "Shredder doesn't care about words, Ivan," He answered, "He cares about results, and we get results." 
Phoenix rolled his eyes. The only results they get were bad ones.
"Don Vizioso wants results and product," Rocksteady said sternly, "You will keep your thoughts about him to yourself." 
Bebop mock pouted, "Aw!" He leant close, resting his hand on Rocksteady's arm, "But you love my comments!" 
"In private." Rocksteady replied, "Where our chances of being caught are minimal." 
Phoenix stayed perfectly still as the mutants sauntered on beneath him, still chatting. They were completely unaware of the intruder right above them, and that amused said intruder greatly. 

Once Bebop and Rocksteady had walked out of sight, Phoenix continued on his way to the garage.
A wicked grin crossed his face as he pictured the motorcycles lined up so neatly, ready to be stolen. God, he was really starting to enjoy this; being able to run around on his own, act on his own and think for himself. It was heavenly.

The garage was completely empty and dark when Phoenix arrived. He stayed hunched in the doorway, searching for cameras or anyone who could be hiding amongst the cars and vans.

He saw nothing, heard nothing. If someone or something was there, they were very well trained. Phoenix snuck further into the room, staying crouched in case there was actually someone there. He stalked between cars and vans, slinking from shadow to shadow as if he belonged there. Phoenix slowed only slightly to look at the motorcycles, to admire their models and design as he moved to the lockbox that held the keys of each and every vehicle in the garage. Even if they were made by the Purple Dragons, Phoenix had to admit that the design of the Dragon Bikes were stunning.

The lockbox was sealed with a simple number combination lock. Instead of attempting to guess the code, Phoenix yanked his Sai from his belt and slammed the butt of it into the top of the lock where the metal met the plastic until it broke. Then, Phoenix yanked the lock off, tossed it across the room and opened the lockbox. He reached in to take one of the keys.

A hand grabbed the back of Phoenix's head and slammed it into the wall. A shout of surprise escaped Phoenix and his arm ws grabbed at the wrist and twisted behind his back. 
"You really are stupid, little martyr." Shredder snarled in his ear, "Do you really think I would let you rob me again?" 
Phoenix shrugged innocently, "I don't know what you're talkin' about. 
An annoyed sound escaped Shredder. He reached up and yanked the makeshift sling free, making all of the materials clatter to the ground. 
"HEY!" Phoenix shouted, trying to swivel around to face Shredder.
Shredder's hand returned to Phoenix's head, pinning him against the wall. 
"I have been patient with you," Shredder muttered to him, "But if you think that you can pay me off with a couple cups of tea and faux concern, then you thought wrong." 
Phoenix squirmed under his grip, despite this, he grinned. 
"Aw," Phoenix said, his voice mocking, "If I knew you wouldn't like the tea when I would've bought from the deluxe menu." 
Shredder growled again.

Then, Shredder pulled away. He didn't let go of Phoenix, instead, he dragged him along with him, yanking him off of his feet. Shredder twisted around and threw Phoenix across the room. The mutant went flying across the room, only stopping when he slammed into the side of a delivery van, putting a massive dent into the side of it.

Phoenix sank to the floor, catching himself on his hands and knees. His body exploded in pain, and a wheeze escaped his opened mouth. Shredder didn't give him a moment to recover. He dashed over, using the motorcycles and cars that Phoenix had been thrown right over as stepping stones. Every step was smooth and calculated and silent. 

On the last motorcycle between Shredder and Phoenix, Shredder jumped high, flicking his arms to free the blades of his Tekkō-Kagi. Phoenix rolled out of the way at the last second and Shredder's blades slammed into the ground instead of Phoenix's head. Phoenix barely managed to pull himself up onto his knees when Shredder was upon him again. Phoenix was forced to roll to the side when Shredder slashed at him. 

Phoenix grabbed his other Sai and freed it from his belt as he rolled away from another slash from Shredder. The vigilante forced himself to his feet and lunged at Shredder right when he turned to strike him again. He ducked under Shredder's next swing and went to stab Shredder in the side. The human was too quick, though, and he stepped around the stab with ease. He raised his leg and spun. Phoenix ducked, successfully saving his head from the kick, which sounded like a thunderclap as it sliced through the air. Phoenix raised his hand and caught Shredder's calf, suspending the blow and sending a shudder of pain through his palm. Nonetheless, he tightened his grip and reached up to grasp Shredder behind the knee with his other hand. Phoenix rose, turning away from Shredder as he did so, yanking the human off of his feet. He threw Shredder into the same van that he was just thrown into. 

Shredder twisted in the air and slammed his feet into the side of the van, making the dent even bigger and kicked off of it, successfully saving himself from a painful collision. He went flying at Phoenix, one arm extending to serve a deadly slash. Phoenix dropped to his knees and threw his body and head back. Shredder's arm swung a split second later; if Phoenix hadn't of moved, he would have lost his head to that swing. Shredder flew over him. He kicked down, slamming the ball of his foot into the ground. He used it as a pivot and spun around as he skidded back. He crouched low, pushing the foot he caught himself with behind him and launched himself at Phoenix again. 

Phoenix rolled away from Shredder's lunge and picked himself up. Shredder somehow managed to stop himself, eventhough he was going almost too fast to be able to see him, and twisted around to face Phoenix. This time, Phoenix met Shredder's charge. He swung his Sai around and caught Shredder's extended forearm between the right and middle blades. He slammed the same Sai own into the ground, making the middle blade pierce the cement between the stone tiles as far as it would go and successfully pinning Shredder's arm to the ground. Shredder looked up at him, his eyes widening slightly. Phoenix kicked up and slammed his knee into the underside of Shredder's chin, making his head snap back from the force. A grunt of pain escaped Shedder, and that was the only indication that Phoenix actually did some damage to him. Then, Shredder swung his free arm and punched Phoenix as hard as he could in the side. 

The force of the blow wracked through Phoenix's body, hurting in a way that was both searing and stining, as he went flying off to the side. Every time a blow would strike him where his shell was, the blow would hurt his attacker and not him. People have broken their bones trying to hurt him by hitting his shell. Phoenix landed on his side, rolled twice, and slammed down on his back. Phoenix wheezed as he turned his head to look at Shredder. Shredder's hand seemed perfectly fine, not broken at all. He grabbed Phoenix's Sai by the hilt and yanked it out of the ground. He pulled himself to his feet and looked at the blade, glaring at the Hamato Clan symbol burned into the butt of the handle and the tattered, faded red material on the grip. 
"I already told you," Shredder said, still eyeing the blade, "If you keep acting like yourself when you're masquerading as Phoenix, your family will recognise you the second they see you." 
Phoenix opened his mouth to respond, but all that came out was a shaky breath. He was winded and each breath never seemed to be enough. 
"Fighting with Hamato Clan Sais," Shredder went on, "Nonetheless ones that so clearly belong to your true identity, is an idiotic move that I would never have expected from you." 

Shredder finally turned to him, holding the Sai aloft in his hand as his own blades disappeared back into his Tekkō-Kagi. He moved over to Phoenix, twirling the Sai absently about his hand. 
"You haven't put much thought in this ego, have you?" Shredder asked as he stood over Phoenix, "What did you need all those materials and tools for?" 
Phoenix drew in a deep breath that made his lungs burn, "None of your fuckin' business." 
Shredder hummed. He looked at the materials, "Lightweight metal, thin rods, fabric... Hmm," He turned back to Phoenix, "Quite the strange combination. You aren't making a weapon, that's for sure." 
Shredder leaned down and offered his hand to Phoenix. Phoenix stared at him, refusing to move. 
"I think you've taken enough of a beating for attempting to steal from me again," Shredder said, "I won't attack you again, if that is what your concern is." 
Despite all of his instincts screaming at him, Phoenix raised his shaky, gloved hand. He grasped Shredder's and allowed himself to be pulled to his feet. 

Shredder spun the Sai went again so that he was holding it by the middle blade and offered it to Phoenix. Phoenix took it and slid it and its twin back into his belt. The vigilante then just stared up at the man before him, feeling the quickly-fading ache in his side. Wonder filled him, wondering how Shredder managed to deliver such a blow so easily without getting hurt himself. Damn, Shredder was a lot stronger than Phoenix thought. The vigilante looked Shredder up and down, taking in his physique that spoke of years of training and discipline, and the way his armour was perfectly moulded to his body, allowing for easy movement but also protection. 
"You fight well," Shredder said, "You are quick, even in this restrictive thing." 
Shredder reached up and grasped the collar of Phoenix's jacket. That broke Phoenix out of his thoughts. He grabbed Shredder's wrist and yanked it away from his jacket. 
"Hey!" He shouted, "My jacket is awesome! It doesn't hinder my movement at all!" 
Shredder glanced down at the brim of the jacket, "It doesn't even fit." 
"It's supposed to be cropped, jackass!" 
Shredder simply hummed. 

Phoenix opened his mouth to shout at Shredder again, only to pause when something caught his eye. Noticing Phoenix's change in focus, Shredder turned. A Footbot walked over to Shredder, its robotic limbs at its sides and a Katana in hand. Shredder stepped in front of Phoenix, blocking him from the robot's view. 
"What is it?" He asked. 
The Footbot bowed deeply, folding its hands behind its back. It beeped at Shredder, keeping its head bowed. Shredder sighed and dismissed the Footbot with a wave. Only when it was gone did Shredder turn back to Phoenix. 
"I have been keeping tabs on Hun's trafficking operation since we have saved all of those people," Shredder explained, "And apparently he is trying to move more people out of New York as we speak." 
Phoenix's eyes bulged beneath his helmet, "What?!" He yelled, "We have to stop them!" 
"There is no 'we' in this situation," Shredder turned away from him and simply stared walking away, "I already risked everything to help you the first time. I don't care about what happens to those people. Go, I will not risk myself again. I would say you have half an hour before those people are beyond saving." 
Phoenix's hands clenched into tight fists at his sides. 
"IF YOU DIDN'T CARE THEN YOU WOULDN'T HAVE KEPT TABS ON THOSE PEOPLE!" Phoenix yelled at the top of his lungs, "IF YOU DIDN'T CARE THEN YOU WOULDN'T HAVE TOLD ME ABOUT THIS!" 
Shredder paused. He didn't turn to face Phoenix, but he didn't make a move to leave either. 
"Please," Phoenix took a step closer to Shredder, "I can't handle it on my own." 
"You can," Shredder said, "You are stronger than you think you are," He moved to keep walking, "Start acting like it." 
Rage bubbled in Phoenix's blood as he watched Shredder walk off. He lunged froward. 

Shredder turned, only to have Phoenix slam into him, making him fall. His wrists were grabbed and pinned to the ground above his head right as his back hit the ground. Phoenix straddled the man and he leaned down until their faces were inches from each other. 
"You are a coward," Phoenix spat, his voice filled with venom, "You care about nobody but yourself and that's why you will die sad and alone!" 
Shredder raised his arm in one quick, movement. The blades of Shredder's Tekkō-Kagi pressed against Phoenix's throat. 
"Say that again." Shredder snarled, "And I will cut off your head, no matter how much respect I have for you." 
"I don't care about your respect, it's worthless to me," Phoenix leaned into the blade, to the point he felt warm blood bloom as his skin was pierced, "You're a coward! Go ahead, kill me! Make my head roll! I don't care if I die, because I know I won't die a coward like the one I see before me! Pretending that you don't care whether or not people live or die is pathetic and it won't keep you safe forever!" 
Shredder pressed the blade further, watching as blood gently ebbed down his blade. Phoenix snarled. 

Then, suddenly, Shredder dropped his arm, letting it fall to his side with a soft clatter. Blood gently dripped from Phoenix's throat and splattered onto Shredder's, staining his pristine armour in red. Phoenix shifted his grip so that he was holding Shredder's wrist with one hand and reared one arm back. He slapped Shredder hard across the face, the collision echoing through the garage. Shredder's eyes widened as pain bloomed across his face. He stared up at Phoenix, his mouth falling open in shock. Then, Phoenix released Shredder's wrists and straightened, though he still stayed straddling Shredder. Shredder didn't move his hands from where Phoenix had left them, he didn't move at all, simply staring up at the man pinning him. Calmly, Phoenix reached up and removed his helmet, setting it down on the ground next to him. Phoenix looked down at Shredder; a gaze that will haunt the man forever. 

Raphael's dark skin seemed almost invisible in the dark room, but his eyes, his eyes were like their own lights, glowing like two full moons. His face was eerily calm, though there was a harshness in his eyes cut through Shredder like the harshest of blades. Blood continued to dribble down from Raph's neck, the small drip drip drip of the blood landing on Shredder's stomach the only sound in the room. Despite the blood and the stitched-up scars splitting his face, Raph looked ethereal; angelic, even. His eyes were warm, but also cold, stern but also compassionate. Shredder found himself staring at his eyes for a long moment before his gaze flickered down to the large, alarming bruise that he hadn't fully processed when Raph removed his helmet back in his office. Who did that to him? Shredder knew Raph didn't get that bruise from the traps or even him. 

Calmly, Raph tilted his head down and closed his eyes. He reached back and untied his mask from his head. Shredder simply watched as Raph then tilted his head back slightly and tied his mask around his neck and over the cut on his throat. It was just under his adam's apple, and it throbbed with every quiet breath he took. Once the mask was tied tight around his neck, Raph placed his hands on Shredder's waist and looked at him again. 
"If you're not a coward," Raph muttered, "Then you'll do the right thing and start thinking about someone other than yourself." 

Raph turned away like Shredder wasn't even there. He picked his helmet back up and put it back on over his head Phoenix turned to him once it was back in place and stood up fluidly. Shredder turned his head and watched as Phoenix took a key from the lockbox and moved over to the nearest motorcycle. Phoenix switched on the motorcycle's engine and pushed the button to open the garage. Shredder rolled over onto his stomach and brought himself up to sit in the Seiza position. Phoenix didn't look at him as he drove off, refusing to acknowledge the clan leader who had just cut his throat.

Phoenix shot through the streets, guiding the motorcycle around tight corners and down long winding streets. He thought about all of those people being taken from their homes and families and forced overseas simply because some bastards want someone to take advantage of and that made his blood boil. The docks were about a ten minute drive away, time that Phoenix couldn't afford especially after his spat with Shredder. He picked up the pace, driving so fast that turning corners on the ice-slicken roads became almost too much to handle. 
Phoenix was so focused on getting to the docks, on keeping the motorcycle steady, that he didn't notice his brothers following him, leaping froom rooftop to rooftop as fast as they could to keep up with him.

After what felt like an age, even though the trip took five minutes due to how fast he was driving, Phoenix arrived at the docks. He leapt off of the stolen motorcycle and raced past the abandoned security check-in booth. Leonardo, Donatello and Michelangelo all watched from the rooftop of one of the warehouses as Phoenix darted further into the docks, shooting through the rows of highly-stacked shipment containers like a bullet. 

Phoenix found the Purple Dragons at one of the docking platforms at the back of the docks, where land met sea. The Purple Dragons were loading people, men, women, children, into a large transport ship. The people were chained and gagged ans their clothes were dirty. They each looked malnourished and terrified. Those that were crying were doing so silently. Phoenix's chest tightened, a dull throb that greatly overshadowed the aching in his neck. 

The vigilante kept to the shadows then, staying low and quiet, unaware of his brothers' gazes. They weren't intervening just yet, wanting to see what Phoenix would do; what side he's on.

The ship wasn't all that big, it was more like a fishing boat than anything, but all of the people were being taken below deck. Phoenix looked around at the Purple Dragons, counting them silently. There were four stood around the dock in front of the ship and two actually on the ship itself. Two of the Purple Dragons outside the ship and one of the two on the ship had guns. Who knows how many more were below deck.

The Purple Dragons were so utterly focused on the people, so desperate to get them on the boat, that they weren't focusing on their surroundings. Still, Phoenix couldn't attack them head on. They would notice. Phoenix looked around, grumbling to himself. It was then that his gaze fell onto the water. Maybe that could work. Phoenix shrugged off his jacket and left it on top of a stack of crates that were pressed against the side of the warehouse that Phoenix was currently hiding behind. He then unclipped the Sake and set it down next to his jacket.

Then, Phoenix ran, each footstep silent and each movement quick. He raced over to the dock that was a little way's away from the boat and with a quick, simple movement, dove. The water didn't spash when he broke through the surface, only rippled softly. Phoenix twisted in the water and started swimming over to the boat, staying close to the bottom but high enough that his movements weren't prohibited by the sand coating the bottom. A series of small bubbles flowed from behind him, where his tail was, an almost imperceptible sign that he was breathing. 

"He dove?" Mikey muttered, "What kind of crazy guy would just dive in the water like that?" 
Leo spared him a glance, before glancing over at Donnie. Donnie was simply staring at the boat, waiting for the vigilante to re-emerge, his face a perfect display of concentration and thoughtfulness. 
"Should we intervene?" Donnie asked, reaching for his staff.
Leo stuck out an arm, stopping Donnie. 
"No," Leo said, "We'll wait and see what he does. We need to see who he aligns himself with." 
"We've already seen him on a Footclan motorcycle," Donnie replied, "And saving Shredder no less." 
Leonardo shook his head, "This could he a turf war against the Purple Dragons and the Footclan, or this could be someone new acting entirely on their own. We need to wait and see what we're up against." 

Phoenix reached the boat and slowly ascended. He broke the surface and grabbed the rope that anchored the boat to its spot. He scaled the rope and peered over the edge of the boat. The two on the boat had their backs to him, and the four that had been bringing the people onto the ship and gone over to the warehouse that Phoenix was just hiding near. Seeing an opportunity, Phoenix clambered over the side of the boat. He kept low and crept over to the two Purple Dragons. 

When Phoenix got close enough, he straightened, grabbed the two Purple Dragons by their heads and slammed them together. All the two of them could manage was a wheeze before they went limp in Phoenix's hold. Phoenix shifted his grip and caught them by the collars before they could fully fall. Then he dragged them below deck, ducking back down and keeping low. 

Below deck was cramped and dark. A single oil lamp, strung to the woodwork overhead was the only source of light in the room. Metal hoops had been nailed all over the floor and walls and most of them were currently being used to bind the people in place. There were seven men, eight women and six children. The children huddled close to the adults that they were bound near, even though they had clearly never met until today, seeking comfort. They were all staring at Phoenix as he dropped the unconscious Purple Dragons on the ground. They were all gagged and terrified, even the people who subtly pushed the children clinging to them behind them as if to shield them.
"I'm here to help you," Phoenix said, creeping ever so slowly closer, "But I need you to be quiet and only come out when I say it's safe, okay?" 
The adults looked between each other, as silent conflict passing between them. Phoenix paused. Then, the two women in the middle of the group nodded at him. Phoenix crept closer, freeing one of his Sais from his belt. The people flinched, but didn't pull away. Phoenix made quick work of cutting away at the ropes binding the people. Once their wrists were free, they removed the gags from their mouths, though the people who were shielding the children ungagged them before they ungagged themselves. 

Once everyone was untied, Phoenix moved back over to the Purple Dragons and took the gun that one of them was holding. 
"Here," Phoenix said, handing the gun to the woman closest to him, "If the Purple Dragons wake up, or if more show up, I want you to protect yourselves." 
The woman looked aprehensive, even terrified, but still took the gun and nodded. 

The Purple Dragons left the warehouse, walking in a cluster. The two unarmed Dragons had grabbed guns for both themselves and the other Purple Dragon that was unarmed. They were completely silent, glancing around in suspicion. When they got close enough, they realised that the other two weren't on the boat. 
"Hey," One of them said as they stepped onto the boat, "Where the hell are the others?" 
They all turned to face the doorway that led down below deck and frowned. Slowly, they started towards it. 

The Shredder dropped down silently behind them as they gathered around the doorway that led below deck. He lunged forward, the blades of his Tekkō-Kagi glinting in the moonlight, and stabbed the closest man in the throat. Shredder clapped his hand over the man's mouth, silencing the muffled choke that escaped him, before carefully guiding him to the ground. Shredder then lunged at the next man. Once more, he clapped a hand over the Purple Dragon's mouth before slitting his throat. He was guided to the ground, too. The last two were stood side-by-side, listening for any indication that their comrades were okay down below. So, Shredder calmly walked over, every step silent, and stabbed both of them in the back of the head. The blades shot right through their brains and out through their face as easily as a hot knife through butter. Shredder yanked his hands back, freeing his blades, and let the men fall dead onto the floor with soft 'thunks'.

Phoenix emerged above deck, grasping his Sais in his hands, and froze. Shredder was standing over the bodies, watching him calmly as blood dripped from his Tekkō-Kagi. He had Phoenix's jacket folded over his shoulder, miraculously free of blood. The bottle of Sake was currently set on the edge of the ship. 
"Diving in the water in your condition was a poor decision," Shredder said, "Especially with a slit throat." 
"You followed me."
Those three words shot pain straight through Phoenix's system. Shit, the cut was deeper than he thought it was. He raised a hand to his throat and massaged it gently just above the wound. 
"You need medical attention," Shredder stepped closer, "And a change in bandages." 
"I don't need your help." Phoenix spat. 
"You think returning to your family with a slit throat won't arouse suspicion?" Shredder slid the jacket off of his shoulder and instead settled it over Phoenix's shoulders, "The police have already been called. We must leave. If I am caught here then this will end very badly." 
Phoenix rolled his eyes, "How romantic." 
Shredder grumbled. He grabbed the Sake an thrust it into Phoenix's hand. He offered a hand to Phoenix.
"Can you walk?" 
Phoenix glared at him, "Yes!" He snapped. 
Shredder hummed, "Come on, then," He said, "We must depart." 
Phoenix slipped his arms into the sleeves of his jacket as he followed Shredder off of the boat. 

The two of them walked silently back to the motorcycle, side by side. Shredder's pace was slowed so that Phoenix could keep up with him and his eyes constantly flickered around, watching for anyone who might have spotted them. Leo, Donnie and MIkey chose that moment to flee, disappearing from view just before Shredder could spot them. 

Shredder drove the motorcycle and Raph sat silently behind him, gripping the seat between them. He watched the city fly by, his mind buzzing as the aching once more returned. The cold, soaked clothes clung to him, wracking his body with shivers, but he refused to say anything about it. He should jump off this motorcycle and run straight home, but Shredder was right. Going home with a cut throat was going to be suspicious. 

Once they had returned to Shredder's lair, Shredder parked the motorcycle in the garage and climbed off. Right as Phoenix moved to get up, Shredder hooked one arm around Phoenix's back and lifted him before hooking the other arm under his knees. 
"Hey!" Phoenix yelled, "You put me down right now!" 
Shredder shook his head, "We don't have time for your dawdling." 
Without another word, Shredder moved. He dashed at a speed that seemed inhuman. The second he left the garage, he leapt up onto the gargoyles. He leapt from one to the next, moving with a grace of somebody who knew the buidling like the back of his hand.

Within a couple of minutes, Shredder had arrived back at his private quarters. He guided Phoenix down a short hallway and around a corner that led into an even shorter hallway. There was a door at the end of that hallway and Shredder pushed it open. It was a bathroom, quite a striking one at that. Shredder reached over and flicked on the light with the light switch that was on the wall next to the door.

The floor and walls were made up of black marble that was riddled with streaks of silver. To the right sat a series of steel drawers and cupboards that was nailed along the entire bottom right wall. There was a small gap between the cabinets and the floor and that was illuminated by a strip of lights embedded in the corner where the floor met the wall. The drawers were topped with a marble counter top that was more of a silver colour and was riddled with black streaks. A large, white porcelain sink took up a chunk of the centre of the counter top and was overseen by a flat-headed tap. A large mirror took up the rest of the wall and was illuminated by a string of small lights that ran around it. To the left, directly opposite the cabinet, sat a large bathtub that was made of white porcelain. It took up a simple rectangular shape. Simple steel taps were embedded in the wall over the bath and the drain plug was currently wrapped around it. Above the taps sat a shelf that held bottles of bathing products that looked far too expensive than necessary. Opposite the door sat a simple, white porcelain toilet that had no visible tank. It had a button on the wall over it that Phoenix guessed was for flushing. There was a small silver bin set in between the toilet and the cabinet that was relatively unassuming. Embedded in the white ceiling sat a set of lights that took on a rectangular shape. Smaller, square shaped lights were lining the ceiling around the larger light, three in a row. 

Shredder guided Phoenix over to the counter and lifted him. He set Phoenix down on it and crouched down to get something from the cabinet beneath him. Phoenix set the Sake down next to him.
"You'll have to take off your clothes, I'm afraid," Shredder said, "If it makes you uncomfortable, then I will leave you with the necessary tools and wait outside." 
Phoenix said nothing. He simply reached up and removed his helmet. 

Raph set the helmet down next to him and looked down to watch as Shredder continued rooting through the cupboards. 
“I'm fine." He grumbled. 
Shredder hummed. 

When Shredder finally straightened, he had medical supplies in his arms, as well as a fluffy grey towel Shredder set the medical supplies down while Raph slowly took off his Phoenix outfit. 
"Why do you go out like this?" Shredder asked as he sorted through his gathered supplies, "Surely it's dangerous for you, especially in this state." 
Raph scoffed, "Please, like you care." 
"Maybe I don't," Shredder said, "But my curiosity is outright." 
Raphael tossed his shirt onto the floor and got to work unbuckling his belt, "Let's just settle in callin' me crazy and get this over with." 
Shredder hummed and nodded. 

A Footbot entered the room right as Raph tossed his pants and boots onto the floor. It didn't look at Raph or Shredder and simply gathered up Raph's disgarded gear and clothes before plucking his helmet from the counter.
"Hey!" Raph snapped. 
The Footbot didn't look at him and simply walked out of the room, bowing deeply at Shredder before shutting the door behind it. Shredder caught Raph's arm when he went to chase after the Footbot, making him pause.
"Relax," Shredder said, "The Footbot is simply going to take your clothes to be cleaned." 
Raph shot him a glare, "That robot has my weapons!" 
"You are adept in hand-to-hand combat," Shredder said smoothly, "Relax." 
Raphael's glare deepened, but he said nothing. He shifted so that he was sat more comfortably on the counter and folded his arms over his chest. 

Shredder moved to stand in front of him. 
"May I have your arm?" He asked. 
Raph silently raised his arm. Shredder took it in his hand to steady it before he started to unwind the soaked bandages that covered Raph's shoulder. Raph was soaked, as was the stitches that held his wounds closed. 
"These will need to be re-done." 
Raph said nothing. He simply reached out with his free hand and twisted off the cap of the Sake. He then lifted it and took a long sip. The alcohol burned his throat as he swallowed, but he didn't even twitch at the sensation.

Shredder got to work, tossing the bandages to the side before meticulously cutting the stitches with a pair of medical scissors. He undressed all of Raph's wounds and cut all of his stitches, though he took extra care when handling the ones on his face. Raph simply watched him, his gaze unwavering. 

Finally, Shredder reached for the mask wrapped around Raph's neck. He unwound it gently, glancing at the dark splotches of blood that stained it. He inspected the wound closely. Blood was still seeping slowly from it. Shredder frowned at the sight of it. Raph eyed him warily. Shredder's eyes were dim, as if they were filled with regret. When Shredder realised he was looking, he blinked and the dimness in his eyes disappeared. 
"This will require stitches," Shredder muttered, "Not many though." 
Raph said nothing, and simply nodded. 

The entire process took just over an hour. Shredder stitched every wound with much more care than what he showed Raph back in the trap rooms, which made the process take much longer. Every wound was gently dabbed at with a towel to dry it before it was stitched and Shredder even paused every time Raph would wince. 

Once Shredder had wrapped up all of Raph's wounds in bandages, save for the one around his neck, he straightened and offered Raph his hand. Raphael took it and allowed Shredder to help him off of the counter as he grabbed the Sake. 
"You can sit with me in my private quarters until your clothes are cleaned," Shredder said, "I have questions for you." 
Raphael glared at him, but still said nothing. Shredder didn't let go of Raph's hand as he led him out of the bathroom.

Hachikō was waiting for them in Shredder's bedroom. The second the door opened, his tail started wagging furiously. An excited yip escaped him and he leapt at Shredder, resting his front paws on Shredder's leg. 
"Hachikō. You will calm yourself." Shredder said sternly, subtly pushing Raph behind him. 
Raphael peeked around Shredder. Hachikō saw him and immediately let out another excited yip. Shredder had to catch the dog by the collar to stop him from leaping at Raph. Shredder guided Hachikō and Raph further into the room, keeping a grip on Hachikō's collar to stop him from launching at Raph. 

Shredder guided Raph to sit on the couch before turning to Hachikō. 
"You will behave, Hachikō." He said stenrly. 

Raph took to looking around the room. The door was made of a deep dark oak and was lined with silver. The walls were a deep crimson colour, so dark they were almost black. Across the room, opposite the door, sat another door that led out onto Shredder's small balcony. To the right sat a grand, king-sized four-poster bed with the curtains currently drawn to the posts. The bed was neatly made with a black, weighted velvet duvet and black and silver-coloured velvet pillows. The curtains were red and thick, designed to block out light or the sight of someone as they slumbered. A bedside table was sat either side of the bed, each of them holding a single lamp. The couch was to the left of the room, facing away from the bed. An armchair was settled to the right of it, facing away from the balcony. Directly before the couch, embedded into the wall, sat a large fireplace that was made of black and gold marble. Fresh logs were stacked neatly in their metal cradle, waiting to be burned. Bookshelves took up the entire rest of the wall around the fireplace, filled with beautiful, hardback books. A coffee table sat in between the couch and the fireplace, currently holding only a few coasters. A single chandelier hung from the ceiling. It was black, with four lights stetching from it. Chains, riddled with rubies and black gems, strung from the lights, attaching all of them together. 

Shredder let go of Hachikō and the dog immediately leapt onto the couch. He lapped at Raph's face, though he carefully avoided the fresh stitches, making Raph laugh and splutter. 
"Hachikō!" Shredder yelled, "Behave yourself at once!" 
Hachikō ignored him, seemingly completely taken wih Raph, though he flopped down into Raph's lap and simply settled, his tail wagging furiously. Shredder sighed heavily and sat down next to Raph.
"You are a pain, Hachikō." 
Raph simply smiled as he started to card his fingers through Hachikō's fur. 
"He's a good boy." He said. 
Shredder rolled his eyes, "When he behaves, he is." 
Raph laughed softly. 

A silence stretched between them. Raph brought the Sake to his lips and took a sip. When he realised that Shredder was watching him, he offered him the bottle. Shredder raised a hand in a silent rejection. Raph shrugged and took another sip before letting the bottle rest against his thigh. 
"Back in the forest," Raph said after a moment, "Why did you carry me to safety?" 
Shredder looked away, "You upheld your end of the bargain," He answered, "It seemed like the right thing to do." 
Raphael looked at him, "But we're enemies. We didn't need to keep fighting together, we were out of the trap." 
Shredder clicked his tongue, "We weren't in a trap when you saved me from Hun's tiger," He countered, "Yet you still carried me home." 
Raph's face grew hot at that and he immediately turned away. Crap. Shredder remembered that. He was delirious, out of his head with sickness, but he still remembered. 

A soft shift made Raph turn. Shredder reached up and gently removed the Kuro Kabuto from his head. He turned it in his hands to look at it, a brief look of contemplation fueling his face, before he set it down on the coffee table. Shredder turned to him then. His face lacked anger, hatred. He looked calm. His healthy, black eye caught the light from above, almost making it shine, while his grey one remained cloudy but still somewhat warm. Raph took in his scars, the way his purple skin twisted and plagued a large chunk of his head, face and neck.
"I suppose," Shredder spoke, his voice soft, "We can't help but save each other, even when we don't need to." 
"I guess so." Raph agreed, unable to look away from Shredder's face. 
Raph offered Shredder the Sake again. This time, Shredder took it. He took a long swig before handing the bottle back. Raph set it on the coffee table and went back to gently petting Hachikō, but he didn't look away from Shredder.
"You wanted to know my name, didn't you?" Shredder said after a moment. 
Raphael nodded. 
"I haven't spoken it in a long time." Shredder muttered, more to himself than to Raph, as he looked away.
Raph looked at Shredder for a moment, as his eyes closed in contemplation, before reaching out. He gently rested his hand on top of Shredder's. 
"It's okay." He said slowly, "You don't have to tell me." 
Shredder flinched at the contact, but he didn't pull away. Instead, he shifted his hand to grasp Raph's in return. He ran his tumb along the back of Raph's hand, feeling the smooth scales that was his skin. It was a somewhat grounding feeling. 

"Oroku Saki." 
Raphael blinked, his surprise evident. He stared at Shredder, his eyes wide. Shredder looked at him. He looked into Raph's eyes, mesmerised in the way they caught the soft, warm light cast by the chandelier above. He looked at the way those scars bisected his face, at the way his face contorted with curiosity and wonder.
"My name," Shredder's grip tightened on Raph's hand, "Is Oroku Saki." 
"Oroku Saki." Raph muttered, his voice soft. 
Shredder blinked at the sound of his own name being said back to him. He waited, frozen, as if he was too scared to move. As if this were a dream that he didn't want to wake up from. 
"Oroku Saki," Raph said again, a warm smile crossing his lips, "That's a beautiful name, Honey." 
Shredder, or rather, Saki, stared at him, stunned. Raphael smiled.
"I'm sorry for calling you a coward, Saki," Raph said, "I was angry." 
Shredder nodded, "And I apologise for..." He raised his free hand and gently brushed his fingers against Raph's latest wound, "For cutting you." 
Saki shifted closer, his hand moving gently to cradle Raph's face. Raphael blinked in surprise. He gently pulled away from Shredder's touch and grabbed the bottle of Sake again. 
"How about a drink?" He said, "To show there's no bad blood between us." 
"You're a son of Hamato Yoshi," Shredder said, "There will always be bad blood between us." 
Raph shrugged, "Maybe," He said before taking a swig, "But Phoenix doesn't have any bad blood with the fearsome Footclan."
That actually earned a chuckle out of Shredder. He took the bottle when Raph offered it. 
"To us then," He said before taking a swig of his own. 
Raph's smile widened, "To us." 

Shredder set the bottle down then. He shifted closer and their knees brushed together. He reached up with one hand and cradled Raph's face again. 
"I haven't showed my face to anyone, Raph," Shredder said calmly, "Not since..." 
Shredder's other hand reached up to touch the scars that riddled his face. His face felt warm, and there was a fuzziness in his chest that he couldn't explain. Shredder guessed that the Sake was having more of an effect on him than he would like to admit. He looked at Raph's face, and the way a faint flush dusted his cheeks, and guessed the Sake was affecting him in the same way.
"Forgive me." Shredder pulled away and turned to reach for the Kuro Kabuto. 
Raph caught his hand, "Don't," He said, "Your face doesn't bother me." 
Shredder looked at him. Instead, he grabbed the Sake as one hand returned to Raph's face. 
"You are being too kind to me." 
Raph said nothing as he watched Saki take another long sip of Sake, and did the same when the drink was offered to him. Both of their faces grew warmer and Saki leant closer still. Raph leant closer, too. 
"Do you want me to stop being kind to you?" Raph asked. 
Saki brushed his knuckles along the scales on Raph's cheek, "No." He murmured. 
Then, Shredder closed the gap between them. He brought his other hand up and rested it on the side of Raph's neck. 

Raph felt Shredder's scarred but inhumanly smooth lips brush against his own and he sank into the contact, his eyes falling shut as he looped his arms around Shredder's shoulders. Shredder removed his hand from Raph's neck and instead wrapped his arm around Raph's shell, pulling him even closer. 

Raphael broke the kiss after a moment and simply rested his head against Saki's. He didn't open his eyes as he felt Shredder's warm breath tickle his nose. He could smell the Sake; a distant voice told him that whatever he was doing was a bad idea. It was a voice that wasn't truly heard and went ignored. Raph leaned closer, and his lips brushed Saki's again.

Chapter Text

A sharp knock on the door made Raph jolt out of Shredder's hold. He practically threw himself as far away from Shredder as physically possible and whirled around to face the door. Shredder shuffled away from Raph, too, clearing his throat.
"Enter." He said.

The door swung open. A Footbot walked in, holding the Phoenix uniform close to its chest. The clothes were neatly folded, balanced with one hand with the helmet resting atop them, while the boots and belt were clutched in the other hand. Raph immediately stood up. He practially snatched the clothes from the robot and hurriedly started to put them on. Shredder watched from the couch, his eyes calculative. 
"Raph." He called.
Raph ignored him. His face was flush, his lips still warm from the kiss, and his mind was a foggy mess. He fumbled with his uniform, struggled to get his feet in his boots and even dropped his jacket a couple of times.
"Raph." Shredder called again, this time standing up. 
Raphael ignored him again. 

Frustration bubbled in Shredder's chest now. One second, Raph was kissing him, sure, it was tentative, but he didn't stop, he didn't pull away and he actually instigated the second kiss, and now he was acting as if he didn't exist. Saki's hands curled into fists to tight his knuckles cracked, but he immediately forced them to loosen. Losing his temper would not make this strange situation any better. The human drew a deep breath as Raph pulled on his pants and took a step closer. Raphael bent down to put his shoes on.
"Raph." Saki said, his voice soft. 
That got Raph to pause, his right boot half-way on his foot. He dropped the shoe on the ground, put his foot down and slowly turned. Vibrant green eyes slowly rose to meet with Shredder's. They were filled with caution and suspicion, no longer hazy and warm, the eyes of somebody looking at something dangerous. Saki took a step back. 
"You are just going to leave?" Shredder asked, his gaze flickering briefly to Raph's helmet. 
Raph scoffed, "Yeah, so?" His voice shook slightly as he turned away to put his shoes on again, "We're drunk, Shredder. This," He indicated between them with a vague gesture, "Didn' mean shit."
"Hardly," Saki argued, "Our conversation would not be so fluid if we were, and you won't be able to stand up straight so easily. There isn't enough alcohol in our systems to-" 
Raphael didn't turn this time, "You don' know me, and you certainly don' know me drunk, so why don'chu fuck off?" 
Shredder felt his anger stab at him again. He clenched and unclenched his fists, as if trying to dispel the creeping, white-hot feeling. 
"You kissed me as well." Was the only argument Shredder could muster, and he cursed himself for it, "You are hardly an innocent party." 
Raph, after yanking on his other boot, whirled around. He strode over to Shredder, rage burning in his eyes.
"Oh, you're playin' that card, are you?" He snarled, jamming his finger into Shredder's chest, "Well excuse me! It's kinda hard to say no when you're sittin' naked in a warlord's livin' room with a fuckin' leg wound-!" 
Saki grabbed Raph's wrist and lowered his hand, holding it firmly at their sides, "Do not go there. You and I both know that when it really comes down to it that leg wound would not have stopped you. You have never once been afraid to oppose situations, especially ones that focus on you. If you didn't want this, you wouldn't have let me kiss you and you wouldn't have kissed me in return." 
Raph snarled, "Fuck you!" 

Raphael yanked his wrist back and Saki let him go without a fight. Raph snatched his belt and immediately slipped it around his waist, his movements janky due to his rage. He fumbled twice, which only irritated him more. When he finally closed it around his waist, he grabbed his helmet and slammed it on his head with more force than necessary. 

Phoenix turned to him then, silent fury eminating from him in thick, suffocating waves. He stared at the man before him, as if he was expecting him to say something, to argue further.

When Shredder didn't Phoenix scoffed. Then he walked past him, his gaze locking onto the balcony doors across the room. Shredder suddenly grasped Phoenix's hand, making him whirl around. He didn't stop him when he wrenched his hand free again. They stared at each other for a moment, before Shredder moved over to his bedside table. Phoenix watched him warily, his hands forming fists at his sides. He was tired, confused and sore, but he would defend himself if Shredder tried anything. 

From his bedside table, Shredder produced a roll of what looked like gauze. He turned again and moved over to Phoenix. 
"This will help you hide the wound on your neck." Was the only explanation Shredder offered.
Phoenix took the gauze and held it up, "It doesn't look very useful." He scoffed, "You do know my skin is green, not some off-colour white." 
"Trust me, Phoenix," Shredder said calmly, "It will work. You should go, before your absence is noticed." 
Phoenix stared at him for a moment, as if he expected Shredder to say something else. When Shredder remained silent, Phoenix strode past him without another word. Shredder turned, watching as the masked mutant wrenched the balcony door open, though not before giving Hachikō an affectionate scratch behind the ears, step out and promptly slam the door shut behind him.

The cold night air hit Phoenix in an instant. He ignored the creeping claws of it as they sunk through his jacket and deep in his bones. He stepped onto the edge of the parapet and promtply leapt. He flipped onto the wall surrounding the properly and dropped down into the street before the Footbots below could even turn.

Phoenix walked down the street, hands in his pockets as a whistle danced on his lips. The alcohol in his system made his head feel like it was made of cotton, and that nothing else mattered; it was like he was watching his life rather than living it. Despite this, his mind still whirled with half-thoughts and the ghosts of soft touches; the feeling of Shredder's lips against his, his hands gentle when he touched him. Phoenix immediately shook his head, which caused the cotton-like feeling to twist into gut-wrenching dizziness. He paused and tentatively touched his head, groaning softly. 
"Shit," He murmured, "I'm such a fuckin' idiot." 

It took months for Raph's wounds to heal fully. The gauze that Shredder gave him worked wonders to hide his neck - it was some form of gauze that changed colour to fit the skin colour of the wearer and as long as he didn't tilt his head, Raph looked like he hadn't suffered the injury. Even after the wound had healed and Raph had taken the stitches out, he used the gauze to hide the scar from his family. 

The second that Donnie had given him the okay, Raph worked out furiously in between his training with Splinter and his brothers and sneaking out as Phoenix. Even after Donnie's okay, it took Splinter two whole weeks to allow Raph to leave the lair. Every night after that, Raph would go to bed exhausted but satisfied from a mix of training, patrol, his late nights out as Phoenix and working out. Every night, he would actively avoid the Footclan, save for the odd Footbot or two he saw on patrol, both with his brothers and as Phoenix. Leo, Donnie and Mikey kept meeting in Donnie's lab when they thought Raph was going to bed, talking in hushed whispers. Raph knew what they were talking about. Phoenix. It was always Phoenix. Raph wasn't sure when they spotted him, but it infuriated him to know that Shredder was right about them being onto him. 

The thing that Raph hated the most, however, was the looks. The guilty, heartbroken looks from his brothers every time he walked into a room and he saw his scars, the lines raking down his shoulder and thigh, the stitches in his mask and the deep gouges that were a reminder of how close he came to losing his eye. Leo looked the most guilty for some reason, like it was his fault Raph fell into a trap. Every glance and stare was a mix of horror and guilt and it made Raph want to break something.

Raphael grunted as he raised the barbell high over his head. Sweat tricked down his brow and slow, measured breaths hissed out from his clenched teeth. The leather bench beneath him was slick with sweat and his muscles were aching from hours of exercise. He had done laps, squats, push-ups, everything he could think of, all with some kind of weight on his back. He tried to convince Mikey, the heaviest out of the brothers apart from Raph, to sit on his back while he did push-ups, but Mikey called his sweaty form gross and said no. 

He did reps until his arms shook and his chest burned. Then he put the bar back onto the rack and sat up. He grabbed the small white towel on the ground next to him and dabbed at his forehead and neck. Raph was gentle as he dabbed at the thin scar on his neck, as if the wound would re-open at a single ounce of force.

Raph stood up and walked away from his bench press. He settled himself on the mat on the floor and started to stretch despite the aching in his muscles. He sat down and stretched one leg in front of him. He grasped his foot with both hands and lowered his upper body forward until it was draped over his leg. As he stretched, Raph turned his head to look across the room, under his bed. He could just about make out the outlines of notebooks. Raph couldn't keep the blueprints he stole from Donnie forever, he knew that, so he bought some notebooks and pens from a store on one of his patrols as Phoenix and copied everything into one of them. The notebooks were cheap spiral-spined ones that came in a pack of five. They each had different colours for some reason. Raph wasn't really fond of that, but they were cheap so he couldn't complain. Red, black, green, grey and yellow were the colours of the notebooks and all of them were hardback covers. Raph had put all of Donnie's blueprints and notes in the grey notebook and even found himself studying them thoroughly. In the red notebook, he used the notes to make designs and notes of his own. It took him ages to understand a single thing Donnie had written; further cementing Donnie's intelligence in comparison to Raph's own. 

With a soft sigh, Raph looked away. He switched legs and continued stretching, this time turning his head to face away from his bed. Nightmares of the traps were frequent; exhaustion was a constant feeling, and coffee, much like it was for Donnie, was a saving grace. The dark bags that had formed under his eyes were thankfully hidden by his mask, so nobody really suspected him. 

About half an hour later, Raph finished his stretching. He took a quick, cold shower and, once he was dry got to work re-applying the gauze Shredder had given him. His movements were slow and practiced, knowing just how much to apply. The gauze was designed to just sit on a person's (or mutant's) skin without having to be tied. Raph had tested it, and it didn't come off from sweating or extensive movement, it had to be actively peeled off, which was a feature Raph was thankful for.

Raph stepped out of his bedroom, pausing only to watch the door shut behind him, and stepped forward to lean on the old railing. Mikey was on the pinball machine, a concentrated frown covering his face. Leo and Donnie were nowhere to be seen, but Casey was sitting slumped against the couch with a comic book in hand and April was sat cross-legged next to him, bent over the homework in her lap. 
"You need to focus, Casey." April murmured for probably the millionth time, "You need to pass this class." 
Casey simply shrugged, "I can do my homework later, Red," He answered, not looking up, "We come here to see our friends, not study hall." 
"It's called multi-tasking," April answered defensively, "Besides, I'm staying here tonight to help Donnie with a project." 
Casey side-eyed her, "What project?" He asked suspiciously. 
April smirked slightly, but didn't look up, "It's top secret, Casey." 
Casey frowned, but didn't say anything. He went back to his comic, but Raph could tell he wasn't paying attention to it anymore. 

Raph walked silently down the platform, his eyes never leaving his two human friends. When he reached the ladder, instead of climbing down, Raph simply stepped off the platform. He landed in a smooth, silent crouch on the ground, his eyes still fixed on April. He could guess what the 'secret project' was, but he just wished he was wrong. He watched them for a second before his gaze flickered over to the Dojo and then to the lab. Raph straightened and wandered over to the kitchen. 

Right as Raph opened the fridge, he heard the Shoji door of the Dojo open. He paused and slowly straightened and turned. Leo was standing in the doorway, his face stoic. 
"Guys," He called, "Sensei wants us for training." 
Raphael held back a sigh and straightened, "I'll get Don." He said. 
Mikey played his game for a couple seconds longer before bounding over to Leo. April put down her homework and Casey his comic book and stood. They followed Mikey to the Dojo without a word. Raph watched them for a moment before quickly darting around the kitchen. He boiled the water in the kettle for long enough for the water to be warm but not boiling and made a cup of coffee in a purple mug with a chip in the handle. Donnie has used it so much the purple paint on a section of the lip of the mug was faded. Raph made the coffee with milk and two spoonfuls of sugar before tossing the spoon into the sink and picking it up. 

Raph took the coffee mug and left the kitchen. He moved over to the lab and forced open the large steel door without bothering to knock. The cold, fluorescent lights lit up the room, making Raph's eyes burn. He stood in the doorway, blinking rapidly to try and force his eyes to adjust. 

Raph stepped further into the room, rubbing his eyes with his free hand. Once his eyes adjusted, he looked around. He found Donnie slumped over his desk, fast asleep and drooling over whatever notes he was taking. Raph shook his head and simply sighed. 
"Don, you're gonna work yourself to death." He muttered. 
Upon reaching Donnie, Raph rested his hand on his shoulder. Donnie woke with a start, sitting up so violently that he nearly knocked the mug of coffee out of Raph's hand. Raph took a step back as Donnie looked around wildly, his eyes wide with shock. When Donnie realised where he was, he turned to Raph and simply stared at him. Raphael offered him a smirk. 
"Hey, Don," Raph said warmly, "It's trainin' time." 
Donnie blinked at him a couple of times. Then, with a slight shake of his head, he seemed to wake up. He eyed the mug of coffee in Raph's hands and Raph handed it over with a chuckle. Donatello immediately took it, brought it to his lips, cocked his head back and downed the coffee in three gulps. With a satisfied sigh, Donnie handed the mug back. 
"Thanks," He said, "I needed that." 
"I know, Don," Raph smiled, "C'mon, let's go." 
Donnie nodded and stood up. 

They walked out of the lab together and moved straight over to the Dojo, only pausing so that Raph could put the mug in the sink in the kitchen. They walked in silence, focusing on the Shoji door. 

When they entered the Dojo, Leo and Mikey were already sat before their father. Splinter stood over them, hands folded behind his back. April and Casey were sat cross-legged off to the side, watching with rapt interest. Raph and Donnie split up and sat down, with Raph next to Leo and Donnie next to Mikey. They sat in silence for a moment as Splinter assessed them, stroking his beard between his fingers. 
"Hand-to-hand combat training." Splinter decided, his voice clipped, leaving no room for argument, "Leonardo and Raphael, Michaelangelo and Donatello. The winners will then battle. Leonardo, Raphael, you will begin." 
The four brothers rose immediately. Donnie and Mikey walked over to sit next to Casey and April while Raph and Leo tuned to face each other. The two elder Hamato siblings backed up until they were just out of arms' reach of each other, their eyes locked. Splinter backed up until he was stood close to the back wall and rested his hands on his cane. 
"Yame." 

Raph dove instantly, his arm swinging in a wide arc. Leo barely ducked under Raph's punch and dropped down low to sweep his legs, but Raph jumped over it. He brought his knee up and it slammed into Leo's chin, snapping his head back. Leonardo almost lost his composure from the strike, but he quickly dropped down and pressed his chest against the floor in order to avoid Raph's other leg that came swinging for his head. 

Raph landed in a crouch and Leonardo immediately leapt to his feet. Raphael swung another punch, one that Leonardo again ducked under. Then they started circling each other, their eyes still locked. 
"Are you sure you're up for this, Raph?" Leo asked, "It hasn't been all that long since-" 
"I'm fine!" Raph barked. 
The next thing Leo knew, his brother was charging for him. He stepped left to avoid getting tackled, only for Raph's hand to clamp down on his face and Raph's leg to sweep him off of his feet. With a shove, Leonardo landed hard on the ground. Leo rolled out of the way of a stomp that was aimed for his chest and quickly picked himself up. 

Leonardo lunged this time. He swung for Raph's head, but, when Raph ducked, kicked up with his knee. Raphael instinctively buried his head in his shell and Leo's knee went right over him. Raphael reached up and clamped his hands around Leo's thigh before he leapt to his feet. Leonardo, immediatel thrown off balance, hopped and swung for a punch. The punch connected, but Raph didn't so much as flinch. Raph threw Leo's knee up, forcing him to hop back in an attempt to further regain his balance. Raphael lunged then and spun, his leg snapping up like a viper. The top of his foot connected with Leo's jaw. Leonardo went flying off to the right, spittle flying from his mouth from the force of the blow. 

Leo caught himself on his hands before he could face-plant the ground and flipped into a handspring. He then landed in a smooth crouch, spinning around to face Raph as he skidded back slightly from the force of the motion. Raphael's head popped back out of his shell and he offered Leo a smug smirk. Raphael raised his hand then and made a simple 'come at me' gesture that sent anger boiling through Leo's system.

Leonardo picked himself up and lunged then. Raph, grinning, shot forward to meet his charge. Leo stopped short and spun, his leg snapping up. Raph ducked under his swinging leg and grabbed it by the calf before yanking Leo closer. Raphael swung his free fist, aiming for Leo's snout, but Leo threw his head back to avoid it and Raph's fingers grazed his lips instead. Leo arched his body to the side, ducking under Raph's arm as his hand closed around his wrist. He lurched forward, flexing his pinned leg and swung his own arm. On reflex, Raphael slammed his elbow down as hard as he could, catching Leo right in the side of the neck. Leonardo released Raph with a choked gasp, but it was quickly silenced by Raph's now free fist slamming into the side of Leo's snout in a devastating right-hook. 

Leo went flying across the room, blood flying from his nostrils. He landed hard at Splinter's feet, catching himself on his arms. He brought a hand to his face, touching it tentatively. When he pulled it away, blood was staining his fingers. His eyes widened in horror at the sight of it and he turned his head to look at Raph over his shoulder. Raphael gawked at him, his bloody hand shaking and held against his chest. 

The room was silent for a beat. Then, Donnie picked himself up and rushed over to his eldest brother, yanking a cloth from his belt. He knelt next to Leo and pressed the cloth to his snout. Leo nodded and took the cloth, pressing it against his bloody snout, and gently pushed Donnie back. Raphael backed up several steps, his bloody hand shaking. Without a word, Raph turned and stormed out of the Dojo. 
"RAPHAEL!" Splinter yelled after him.
Raph flinched but didn't turn. He kept walking, head held down.
"Shit," He murmured, "I'm such a fuckin' idiot." 

Chapter Text

Raph grumbled as he ran the water. He shoved his bloodied knuckles under the stream and quickly got to work scrubbing at the blood. His face was twisted into a frustrated snarl as his heart pounded in his chest. Raph had just punched Leo, made him bleed.
"Dammit." He grumbled. 

A hand rested on Raph's shoulder, making him jump. He whirled around, fist flying. Donnie ducked under the swing and stepped back, raising his hands to his chest in surrender.
"Easy, Raph." He said. 
Raphael immediately dropped his arm and stared at Donnie, his eyes wide. Then, Raph looked away, guilt flashing in his eyes for a moment, before turning his back to him and shoving his hand under the water again. 
"You can't feel guilty for giving Leo a nose bleed, you know that, right?" Donnie said, "We always get hurt during training. Besides, it's Leo's fault for not having faster reflexes." 
Raph didn't laugh or even grin at Donnie's attempt at humour, he simply kept scrubbing. 
"You didn't break anything," Donnie continued, "The bleeding stopped almost immediately." 
Raph glanced at him then, but didn't respond. 
"Come back to training, Raph," Donnie said, leaning against the counter next to the sink, "Please?" 
Raphael looked at him again. He stared at him for a moment, his hand still scrubbing furiously at his knuckles. Then, he sighed. He shut off the water once his knuckles were clean and dried his hand with a towel. 
"Alright," Raph sighed again, "Fine." 
Donnie smiled. He grabbed Raph by the hand and practically dragged him over to the Dojo. 

Mikey was waiting in the middle of the room when Raph and Donnie entered the Dojo. Leo was sat off to the side next to April, a bloodied cloth clutched in one hand with dried blood staining his lips and chin. Raph spared him a guilt-ridden glance at him before sitting down next to Casey. Casey grinned at him and got a quick, forced smile in return. Then, Raph’s eyes found Splinter’s. Splinter was standing near the Bonzai tree, his hands folded over his cane. His left ear was twitching, a sign of his irritation, and his tail was swaying behind him like a snake. His eyes were narrowed and they were locked onto Raphael, gaze unwavering. Raphael immediately looked away, a flush of embarrassment and anger warming his face.

Donnie stood in front of Mikey, who grinned, and sank into a defensive stance. Donnie raised a hand and crooked his fingers. Mikey's grin widened. He stretched his arms over his head, his grin widening. Then, Mikey lunged. He dropped low when Donnie swung his fist and swept Donnie's legs out from under him with a simple spin. Donnie caught himself with his hands and flipped back in a handspring. Mikey raced after him. 

Donnie flipped onto his feet, only for Mikey to skid to a halt in front of him and kick up. Donnie immediately buried his head into his shell and Mikey's kick hit nothing but air, making him stagger. Donnie reached up and grabbed Mikey's extended leg before kicking him in the knee. Mikey fell back with a shout as Donnie's head popped out of his shell. Donnie immediately dove after him, intending on grabbing Mikey’s arms and pinning them down, only for Mikey to grab his wrists, drag him down and kick up. His feet hit Donnie’s plaster on and the force made Donnie flip over Mikey’s head. 

Donnie landed so hard on his back that the wind was knocked out of him. Mikey let go of his wrists and shifted so that he was kneeling next to Donnie. Donnie was breathing hard, trying desperately to get his breath back. His eyes were wide, but there was no panic in his gaze.
“D, you okay?” Mikey asked. 
Donnie nodded, but just kept panting. Raph stood up and walked over to Donnie. He knelt down next to him and slid his hands under his shell before pulling him up so that he was sitting up, leaning back against his plastron.

It took a couple of minutes for Donnie to get his breathing under control. When he did, he shot Raph a warm, reassuring smile and patted his shoulder. Raph let him go and Donnie sat up properly. Mikey immediately hugged Donnie, throwing his arms around his svelte frame and burying his face in Donnie’s shoulder.
“I didn’t mean to kick you that hard, D, I swear.”
Donnie chuckled, “It’s fine, Mikey,” He reassured his little brother, patting his arm, “You did good. With that kinda move you could take Shredder down for sure.”
That earned a snort off of Mikey, muffled by Donnie’s shoulder but none the less heard.  Raph, however, deflated slightly. The mention of Shredder after… Well, after that night, it sent a shiver through his body. The phantom feeling of Saki-Shredder’s lips against his, his hands gently grazing his scales… Raph bit back a shiver and stood up sharply. 

Mikey lifted his head and looked up at Raph. A mischievous grin crossed Mikey’s face. 
“Looks like it’s you ‘n’ me, Raphie.” 
Raphael grinned right back and promptly cracks his knuckles with a series of loud cracks and pops that made Leo shiver with disgust. Raph’s eyes flickered briefly to Leo, his smirk widening a little. Leo hates it when Raph cracked his bones and that always amused Raph. Raph returned his attention to Mikey, his grin turning vicious. Mikey and Donnie both raised their hands and Raph grabbed them immediately and pulled them to their feet with an effortless tug. 

Donnie moved to sit down next to Leo, offering him a quick smile, while Raph and Mikey got ready for their match. The two brothers stood opposite each other, Mikey with his fists raised and Raph with his hands slack at his sides. They waited for Splinter to tell them to start, confused on why it was taking so long. 
Raph tore his gaze from his baby brother to look at his father. Splinter was still looking at him, eyes narrowed, hands clenched around the head of his cane. 
“Raphael,” He said eventually, his tone clipped, “You forfeited, Leonardo will be sparring with Michelangelo.” 
Horror immediately claimed the Hamato Brothers faces. Mikey even turned to look at Splinter, as if wondering if he had heard him right. 
“Sensei-“ Leonardo began. 
Splinter silenced him with a sharp raise of his hand. 
“Raphael walked away. That was a clear forfeit.” He said smoothly. 
Raph growled, “WHAT?!” He exploded, indicating to his older brother with a wave of his hand, “He was down!! I won!”
Splinter’s tail gave another sharp flick, “Raphael. That is enough. You do not raise your voice in my Dojo. You will either sit down and witness Leonardo and Michelangelo sparring with the same respect they have shown you, or you will leave.” He said coldly, “You used more force than necessary when taking down your opponent, and then you walked away. You will not be sparring Michelangelo.” 
Raph’s rage briefly flashed with shock, before the flaring heat of his temper drowned it out.
“It was hand-to-hand combat,” Raph hissed, his hands balling into fists, “S’not my fault Fearless over there can’t handle a bloody nose.” 
Splinter raised his cane slightly before bringing it down sharply onto the floor, making everyone, including Casey and April, flinch. 
“Your aggression will consume you, Raphael,” Splinter went on, “It is a fire that turns everything it touches into ash. You will control yourself and you will accept your forfeit with grace.” 
Raph wanted to tell him to take his grace and shove it up his ass, but he bit his tongue and looked away. 
“Whatever.” He muttered, more to himself than anyone else. 

Raph walked out of the Dojo; this time, Donnie didn’t run after him. Raph went straight up to his room and grabbed his notebooks from under his bed. He shuffled through them until he found the grey one and started thumbing through it. Raph has stolen and copied down not only Donnie’s blueprints for the gliders, but also Metalhead, the Shellraiser, the Stealthbike, grapple gun and various others that seemed to be more concepts than actual tools. On the pages after every copied blueprint was Raph’s own notes and own designs. Just reading everything made Raph‘s head ache. How can any of this make sense to Donnie? Then again, Donnie was a genius, and Raph was just a meathead, no wonder he hardly understood anything here. 
Raphael closed the notebook after a moment and simply sat there, staring at the grey cover. Raph's hands clenched around the notebook, making the notebook bend slightly. 

Donnie and April walked out of the Dojo together. Leo had won the fight against Mikey, though it was surprisingly close. The eldest Hamato son looked distracted the entire fight, and so was Mikey. Michelangelo wandered over to the pinball machine. twirling one of his nunchucks in one hand. Leonardo stayed back for some extra training with Splinter, something that Raph definitely would have rolled his eyes at. 
Donnie forced open the lab door and indicated for April to enter. April spared a glance up at Raph's room as she stepped into the large space. 

Once they were both inside, Donnie shut the lab door and immediately moved over to his desk. 
"So," April said, glancing around at the vast room, "What exactly is this about? You were very vague over the phone." 
Donnie sat down at his computer and pressed the power button. The PC fan immediately started to whirr as the computer started to switch itself on. Donnie turned his chair so that he was facing her. 
"A new vigilante." Donnie answered, resting his elbows on the arms and steepling his fingers, "We saw him a few months ago while Raph was healing from the traps." 
April's eyes went wide with shock, "A new vigilante?!" 
Donnie shrugged, "Well, we think he is. First time we saw him, he was fighting the Dragons," He turned back to his computer when the screen lit up and typed in his password, "But that same evening we saw him taking an unconscious Shredder out of a known Purple Dragon club. Since Shredder is still alive, I think he must be allied with him in some way." 
April sat down on the edge of Donnie's desk while Donnie pulled up a file on his computer. He indicated it to a wave of his hand. 
"So far, all we know is that he is always alone, and seems willing to help Shredder when he's in danger. It almost makes me wonder if he was there, watching, when Shredder was in the trap roooms," Donnie went on, "He seems to be skilled, and has been seen with a pet crow called Yūrei." 
April slid off the desk to peer at the brief information Donnie has written in the file, "What's this guy's name, anyway." 
Donnie leant back in his chair, covering his mouth with his hand, "The Purple Dragons called him Phoenix."
April looked at Donnie, a frown crossing her face, "Phoenix?" She repeated, as if weighing out the name. 
Donnie nodded, "I don't know how long he's been here for certain, but I've been trying to survey him the past few months while Raph was healing, but I haven't been able to figure out anything new." 
April glanced at him, "Does Raph know about this?" 
Donatello sighed and shook his head, "No," He replied, "Splinter told us not to, as he's scared Raph'll do something reckless." 
"I can't really blame him there," April agreed, "Raph is very good at being reckless." 
Donnie shot her a look, but otherwise said nothing. He turned his attention to the screen. 

Like Donnie said, he didn't have much information on Phoenix. He had noted down the bird that seemed to act as his 'eyes in the skies', noted his seemingly friendly relationship with Shredder, and his fighting skills. There was nothing really else to say. Who knows how long Phoenix has been in town, or has been lurking in the shadows every time they took on Shredder. Who knows what Phoenix was capable of? 

April turned to look at Donnie, frowning slightly, "Why did you want my help on this?" 
"You're smart," Donnie answered almost automatically, "You won't get too close to him, but you're also very observant. You'll probably notice something that the others or I would miss." 
April's face grew warm a little at this. She turned back to the screen. 
"Shredder has never hid one of his allies before," She said, "Why would he hide this one?" 
"Sentimentality? Element of surprise? Maybe he only gets called in when there's an emergency?" Donnie offered, "I really don't know, April." 
April hummed, "We'll handle this, don't worry," She said, "I can go out with you tonight and we can see what we can find." 
Donnie nodded, smiling faintly, "Yeah, that sounds great." 

When the moon hung high in the sky, the Hamato brothers left the lair, their bellies full with a dinner that Mikey had cooked from what little they had left in the fridge and cupboards. The air was cold and snow still clung to the ground and rooftops. The roads were lined with grit and some stringlights were still hung up on balconies and even some Christmas trees were still left out on the corners of rooftops.
April stayed close to Donnie, and they spoke in hushed whispers every time Leo made them all stop for surveillance of the area. Raph kept glancing at them. He tried to listen in, but they were tucked too close and talking too quietly. 

Leo had made them stop on top of an apartment building. He was perched on the parapet, peering down into the street below. April and Donnie were sat on a little bench on the other side of the roof, placed in between two large wooden raised planters. Mikey was sat on top of the stairwell, his feet dangling in front of the steel door, as he played some game on his phone. Raph stayed stood in the middle of the roof, arms folded over his chest, eyes warily flickering around. It seemed... Quiet tonight, and that unnerved Raph more than anything.

When Raph went out on his own, he had noticed that some of the gangs, the Purple Dragons especially, have been acting... Off. It started after Raph had saved Shredder from the drug room in the Purple Dragons' club (which he didn't get a chance to go back to yet); Raph could only guess how nervous they must be, but would he have even remembered what had happened? He was pretty out of it thanks to whatever sickness that giant cockroach gave him. 
Even Don Vizioso and his boys were quiet tonight. Leo had made them circle the docks twice, as if he was waiting for something to just pop out. Don Vizioso was a narrow-minded pig-head, he wouldn't worry about something unless it was holding a knife to one of his four chins.

"Hey, guys?" 
Raph was snapped out of his thoughts. He turned slightly. Donnie and April were looking at him and Leo, assertive, like they had just made a monumentous decision. 
"I think we should go see what Shredder is doing," Donnie said, "It's far too quiet, even for the Footclan. If the others are this quiet, then I'm sure it has something to do with the Foot." 
Leo turned to face his little brother and friend. He looked at them, his brows knitting together in a look that was a mix of suspicion and curiosity. 
“If you know something, Donnie,” Leo said, “Then say it.” 
Donnie glanced at Raph, who was thankfully now looking at Leo, and shook his head. Leo blinked, and then his eyes narrowed. He looked at Raph, who was glaring at him suspiciously. Leonardo sighed. 
“Fine,” Leo said, “We’ll investigate.” 
Raph’s eyes widened slightly. He started at Leo as Donnie and April rose from their seats and Mikey hopped down from the stairwell roof. Shit. This wasn’t good. 
“Why are we going’ snoopin’ around Shredder’s?” He asked, “You always say to stay away from that place without good reason t’go near it, and I don’ think Donnie’s hunch is a good reason!” 
Leonardo turned to face Raphael, “He wouldn’t suggest we do this without good reason, Raph, you know that.” 
“Oh yeah?” Raph pressed, turning to glare at Donnie, “What’s the reason, Brainiac? Did Shredder steal your some o’yer cogs?” 
Donnie frowned, “It’s just a hunch, Raph,” He replied, “Look around. Even the Purple Dragons aren’t out causing mayhem.” 
Raph’s hands curled into fists, “And what makes ya think that Shredder’s got somethin’ to do with it?” 
“Why are you getting defensive?” 
“I ain’t!” Raph snapped, “I’m thinking rationally!” 
Mikey scoffed, “Since when?” 
Raph turned on him with a snarl. 

Leonardo immediately stepped between Raph and Mikey, his hands planted firmly on his hips. 
“Raph. We’re going.” He said. 
Raph and Leo glared at each other for a moment before Raph looked away with a grunt of frustration. Leo stepped past him and promptly leapt to the next roof, Mikey right behind him with a flip and a ‘whoo-hoo!’. April passed Raph next, gently patting him on the shoulder. Donnie motioned to do the same, but Raph arched out of his touch, refusing to look at him. Donnie flipped off of the roof and onto the next. Raph turned to watch them all leave, with Donnie slowing his pace to let April keep up and Mikey speeding up to try and convince Leo to face him. 
Then, Raph turned his head and stared at the two Footbots who were watching eight buildings down. He grabbed his Sai from his belt and raised it to them; his best imitation of the middle finger gesture. Then, Raph slid his Sai back into his belt, turned, and raced after his siblings and friend. 

The rhythmic tapping of Shredder’s metal-clad fingers lightly rapping against the stone throne echoed through the room. The man sat rigid, back perfectly straight, legs apart and shoulders squared. One arm, that was connected to the currently tapping fingers, lay on the entirety of the arm of the throne while the other dangled, hand limp close to Shredder’s stomach. 

His furious, mismatched eyes were locked onto four men, quivering before him on their knees at the foot of the throne. Each for of them were bloody, their faces bruised and their wrists bound behind their backs. The smallest one was on the verge of crying. These four men were Sid, Tsoi, Fong and Hun, the four most powerful members of the Purple Dragons. All four of them had bloody wrists from the chafing of their rope bonds as they squirmed, blood covered their faces and clothes and their faces were so swollen that they looked inhuman. Hun's sunglasses laid broken in front of him, the arms snapped off and the lenses smashed. Their clothes were torn and Sid's vest was nowhere in sight, having lost it at some point during his torture. 

Tigerclaw was stood next to Shredder's throne, meticulously cleaning his bloodied paws with a damp rag, provided to him by a Footbot. His one good eye was locked onto the four men kneeling before the throne, as if he was waiting for them to make a run for it. To be truthful, Tigerclaw wasn't quite sure as to why Shredder wanted to torture the Purple Dragons. He had been reminded of something a couple of days ago that threw him into a rage. Tigerclaw had tried to ask about it, but Shredder's soured mood and put an end to the questioning very quickly. Shredder had demanded that Hun and his three closest liuetenats be brought forward instantly. Then, he had ordered them to be beaten, watching with an unnerving stillness as they were. 

Suddenly, the tapping stopped. Shredder rose to his feet, his movements fluid and somewhat graceful. He descended the steps leading up to his throne, his eyes locked onto Sid, Fong and Tsoi. 
"You will tell me what happened the night Phoenix broke into your club," He said, his voice eerily level, "And then, you will tell me why my informants are under the impression that you tried to have me killed." 
A whimper escaped Fong’s lips, and Shredder’s gaze immediately snapped to him. Sid, despite his own injuries, jammed his shoulder into Sid’s, making cry out and whine like a kicked dog. 
“Dob’t ’oo bare.” Sid hissed, his words distorted thanks to his swollen lips and possibly bitten tongue. 
Shredder glanced at his briefly, “Failure to comply will result in more pain for you,” He warned, “You will believe me when I say, that I have all the time in the world to wait for the answers to be beaten out of you.”

High above Shredder’s head, the Hamato brothers and April were hunched over the skylight, peering down into the disturbing scene. 
“What the hell did they do?” Mikey muttered. 
Raph spared him a glance. He had a very good guess at what they did; Shredder either found out or remembered what happened in the drug room in Hun’s club and was pissed about it. 
“How the fuck are we supposed to know?” Raph hissed, not tearing his eyes away from Shredder, “We just got here.” 
Mikey didn’t respond. He simply stared at the people down below, a mixture of horror and curiosity framing his face. 

Shredder stood over the Purple Dragons now, his rage oozing off of him in thick, choking waves. He said something to Sid, making him turn his head away from him. Shredder stared at him, calculating. 

“We should go.” 
Leo’s words made everyone turn. He was looking at Donnie and Mikey, who were crouched side-by-side, his gaze stern and unwavering. He mouthed something to them, and all Raph could make out was the last word, ‘here’. 
“What d’you say?” Raph practically snarled, pushing himself to his feet, “We keepin’ secrets now, Fearless?” 
Raphael gave Leonardo’s shoulder a little shove. He already knew who they were looking for, Phoenix, but that wasn’t something he should know. The fact that they were so willing to hide the fact that, what they assume, a new ally of Shredder’s is in town and they wouldn’t tell him pissed him off. Sure, he wasn’t one to talk about keeping secrets, but if Raph found out Shredder had some kind of secret like a new powerful tool under his belt, he would find a way to tell them if he couldn’t handle it himself.
“What happened to no ‘I’ in team?” Raph pressed, shoving Leo’s shoulder again, “What happened to not leaving anyone in the dark?” 
Leo’s face hardened, “Don’t shove me.” 
“Oh? You mean like this?” Raph shoved his other shoulder. 

Donnie turned away from his bickering older brothers. He pulled out a bunch of parts from his belt - his listening device. It was too big for him to carry around in its entirety, so he was forced to break it down in manageable parts that fit in his belt. Donnie set the majority of the pieces aside and got to work assembling it. April leaned over Mikey to watch him work in favour of whatever interrogation Shredder was carrying out.

“I take on Shredder in a goddamn trap room,” Raph snarled, “And you keep things from me?!”
Raph shoved Leo’s shoulder again.
“Stop it, Raph,” Leo snapped, his voice barely above a whisper, “You’re going to get us caught.”
“I’m just helping you find whatever you’re lookin’ for!” Raph said, a wide, sarcastically positive smile crossing over his face, “Maybe if I shout louder then it’ll come droppin’ into your lap!” 
Raph went to shove Leo again, but he caught Raph’s wrists and shoved them down. 
“Don’t.” 
“Don’t what, Fearless?” Raph mocked, “Do this?” 
Raph raised his hands again. This time, Leo struck first. He shoved Raph a little harder than he meant to. Raph stumbled back. His foot landed on a the neckpiece of the listening device and it rolled under his foot. He fell back. Raph stared at Leo’s face as his anger melted away into dawning horror at what he just did. 

Glass shattered as Raph’s shell struck one of the many window panes that made up the skylight. He fell and fell fast, covering his eyes with his hands to protect himself from the falling glass. He braced for impact; the hard stone floor or hopefully the water either side of the stone path. Instead, he hit something else. Not the water, not the hard stone floor. His fall was broken. 

Raph hesitantly pulled his hands away from his face and opened his eyes. He looked up at the skylight, at his brothers and April, who were all hunched over the hole, eyes wide with surprises and horror. Then, he turned his head. Shredder was looking at him, his eyes slightly widened with shock. Raph gawked at him, his eyes bulging with embarrassment and horror. He looked down at himself. Shredder’s arms were wrapped around him, one around his shell and the other hooked under his knees. Shredder had caught him and was holding him like he weighed nothing. Raph looked up at Shredder again and simply gawked at him. Shredder shifted his grip slightly before gently setting Raph down on his own too feet. One hand stayed on Raph’s waist, while the other reached up to brush a few shards of glass off of his shoulder. 
“You always did know how to make an entrance, little Martyr.” Shredder muttered to him, only loud enough for Raph to hear. 
Raph tensed. 

Seeing an opportunity, Hun, Sid, Tsoi and Fong stood up and raced out of the room, with Sid barging the door open with his shoulder. Tigerclaw moved to follow them, but Shredder held up a hand, making him freeze. Shredder’s eyes never left Raph’s. 
“We have more pressing matters to attend to.” He said calmly. 

Chapter Text

Leo dropped down from the spotlight with a roar, yanking his Katanas from their holsters. 
“GET YOUR HANDS OFF OF MY BROTHER!” He bellowed. 
As Leo jumped, Donnie and Mikey paused to grab April and Casey - with Donnie picking up April in a swift, thoughtless motion by throwing one arm around her back and the other under her knees while Mikey wrapped his arms around Casey’s torso and threw him up onto his shoulder. They dropped down after Leo, April and Casey clinging to them like scared cats. 

Shredder tilted his head up at Leonardo’s bellow, his fingers twitching on Raphael’s waist. 
“Privacy is such a rare thing these days.” He said dryly. 
Raph didn’t respond with words. He stepped out of Shredder’s hold - which Shredder surprisingly let him do - and lunged at him. He tackled Shredder, his fist flying for a punch. Leo landed a split second later, his Katanas stabbing  into the ground right where Shredder should have been standing. He whirled around, shocked, to see Shredder catch Raph’s fist before his back hit the ground. He kicked up and connected with Raph’s carapace, sending him flying. Raph hit the ground and rolled onto his feet. He spun around. 

Donnie and Mikey both landed silently and they quickly put Casey and April down. They all froze as they watched the spectacle before them unfold. Even the unflappable Tigerclaw was too stunned to move. 

Shredder completely ignored Leo, turning his back on him entirely, and charged at Raphael, flicking his arms to the sides to free the blades of his Tekkō-Kagi. Leonardo froze, shock and confusion framing his face. Raph spared his elder brother a glance before focusing solely on the man lunging at him.

Raphael ducked under Shredder's swinging arm and swung his left fist in a left hook aimed at Shredder's side. Shredder thrust his arm down to block the blow. Raph's fist connected with Shredder's Tekkō-Kagi, making pain spark in his knuckles. Raph didn't falter, however. He swung his other fist up into an upper-cut aimed at Shredder's chin. Shredder's free arm shot out like a bullet and grabbed Raph's wrist and pulled. Raphael's fist was forced out to the side. Shredder stepped closer to him. 
"What brings you here, Martyr?" He whispered. 
Raph snarled at him, trying to yank his arm free from Shredder's grip. 

That was when Leo broke out of his shock. He shot forward with a shout. Shredder turned slightly, his grip tightening on Raph's wrist. Leonardo closed the distance quickly, rage burning in his eyes. Tigerclaw slammed into him from the side at the last second, sending Leo crashing into the water next to the platform. Raph almost laughed. 
It was then that the doors flew open with a bang. Raph peered over Shredder's shoulder to see Bebop, Rocksteady, Fishface and Rahzar stepping into the room. Rocksteady was clutching his mace, Bebop walked with his arms folded behind his head, Rahzar flexed his claws and Fishface grinned to show off his sharp teeth.  Donnie, Mikey, April and Casey immediately turned to face them, grabbing their respective weapons. Leonardo emerged from the water and climbed back up onto the platform, turning his attention back to Tigerclaw. 

Shredder turned his attention back to Raphael, smirking beneath his Kuro Kabuto. He reached up and cradled Raph’s face in one hand, running his thumb down one of the stitch rows that lined Raph’s mask. Raphael simply stared at him, frozen under his touch. Shredder’s hand was warm, his touch feather-light, so different from his hard hits in battle.
"This is time we part, little Martyr," Shredder muttered, "Until next time." 
Shredder let go of Raph's wrist. Calmly, he turned back on Raphael and walked calmly towards the doors leading out of the throne room. 

Raph stood there, dumbfounded, as Shredder walked away. Even as Rahzar, Tigerclaw, Fishface, Rocksteady and Bebop stormed forward, he stayed still, eyes locked on Shredder’s back. Shredder half-turned as the Footbots gently pushed the doors closed behind him. His eyes caught Raph’s, and Raph saw them crinkle at the corners; he was smirking. A sudden white-hot rage stabbed at Raph’s heart. A snarl escaped his lips as his fists clenched around his Sais. Then, Raph was moving. Running, sprinting at the doors. 
“YOU AIN’ GETTIN’ AWAY!” He roared. 

Rocksteady picked up the pace, meeting Raph’s charge. He swung his hammer with a roar.
“RAPH!” Donnie yelled after him.
Raphael slid under the swing and through Rocksteady’s legs, slashing at Rocksteady’s leg with his Sai. Blood flew, splattering Raph’s face, and Rocksteady was immediately brought to his knees with a roar of pain. Raph was on his feet in an instant and kept running. He dodged around Fishface’s grab and leapt over Bebop’s tackle before kicking off his back to flip over Rahzar’s slashing claws with a mid-air B-Twist. He landed and promptly shoved the Footbots out of the way when they tried to grab him. He threw open the doors. 
“RAPHAEL DON’T!” Leo shouted, “COME BACK!” 
Raph didn’t look at him as he ran out of the room. Leonardo lunged after him, but was forced to dodge a slash from Tigerclaw’s machete. 

The heavy doors shut behind him with a slam, silencing the sounds of battle coming from the throne room. Shredder was waiting for him, leaning back against the opposite wall with his arms folded over his chest. He still had that grin on his face, Raph could tell thanks to the crinkle in the corners of his eyes. 
“You wanted me to follow you.” Raph growled. 
Shredder chuckled, “Perhaps.” 
Raphael growled again and shoved his Sais into his belt, “What do you want?” 
Shredder unfolded his arms and pushed off the wall, “A conversation.” 
“Then start talkin’.” Raph sneered. 
Shredder stepped closer, raising his hands so that they stayed in Raph’s line of sight. Raph simply glared at him. When Shredder closed the distance, he reached up and gently touched Raph’s neck, his fingers brushing the bandages hiding Raph’s scar. 
“Not here,” He said, his voice soft, “Follow me.” 
Raphael rolled his eyes, but didn’t respond. Shredder pulled away and walked off. Raph followed him, his hands staying close to his Sais. 

Shredder led Raph through the long, cold hallways of his lair and up two flights of stairs. Eventually, he entered one of the many rooms that filled the grand building, even opening the door for Raph. Raph walked into the room without any resistance, though he shot Shredder a suspicious glare. Shredder stepped into the room, shut and locked the door behind them and switched on the light.

The room that Shredder led him into was some kind of weapons room. The walls were made of mahogany, a start difference from the cold stone that made up the towering halls of the lair. Beams of light underlined the shelves of weapons and under the armour stands that displayed full sets of armour from different periods. There was a large rug that took up the majority of the floor. It had two Koi fish, one black and white with red eyes and the other red and white with black eyes, circling each other as the water thrashed around them. The background, the part of the rug that wasn’t covered with the embroidered water, was black, and decorated with swirling clouds. 

Raph looked around at the weapons, fascinated. He could see Sais, both three-bladed and two-bladed, blades ranging from the Tantō to the Odachi, Bo staffs, Nunchucks, even some weapons Raph’s never seen in his life. One weapon caught his eye, well, a pair of weapons. They looked like gloves made of metal. The largest part was a plate of metal  that went over the back of your hand and was covered in spikes, they linked to smaller plates that covered your fingers and ended in three inch blades shaped like claws. There was a metal clasp designed to go around your wrist as well as a plate of metal that protects the palm of your hand. Raph gravitated over to them immediately, staring at them with wide, curious eyes. He reached out to pick one up. 
“Taken a liking to the Neko-te?” Shredder asked. 
Raph’s hand froze, hovering just over the Neko-te, “That’s what this thing is called?” 
“Yes,” Shredder stepped closer, “It is a weapon I think your… Persona would fit well.” 
“Shame I got six fingers ‘n’ not ten.” Raph said dryly, not taking his eyes off the weapon. 
Shredder stood behind him and rested his hands on Raph’s shoulders. 
“I’m sure that won’t stop you from stealing it from me.” 
Raph shrugged, “Probably not,” He said, “But I doubt you’d stop me.” 
“Probably not.” 

A moment of silence passed. Raph stared at the Neko-te, while Shredder simply stood there, resting his hands on Raph’s shoulders. 
“You have been avoiding me.” Shredder said eventually, his fingers twitching. 
“I had a good reason to.” Raph answered coldly. 
“If you didn’t want what happened to happen, you would have told me so. Violently.” Shredder argued. 
“I hate you.” Raph said, his fists clenching. 
“Do you?” 
“Yes.” 
Shredder leant closer, “Then why are you letting me touch you?” 
Raphael snarled, “I...” He sighed, his shoulders sagging, “I don’t know. You- You were right.” 
Shredder hummed, “I often am.” 
Raph sighed, “Donnie’s lookin’ into Phoenix. They saw me, I don’t know when, but they think Phoenix is your soldier. It’s why we’re here in the first place. I didn’ wanna come, but I couldn’ convince ‘em without lookin’ suspicious.” 
“I assume,” Shredder murmured in his ear, “That I was also right about you needing to change some characteristics of Phoenix’s.” 
“I need to change everythin’,” Raph snarled, “And I need a new suit.” 
“A new suit?” 
Raph scoffed, “My jacket doesn’ do a good job at hidin’ my shell.” 

Another moment of silence passed. Raph turned to face Shredder. They looked at each other, deep black and grey eyes locking with a luminous green. Then, Raph stepped out of his hold and moved around him. He walked over to the door, his hands curling into fists.

Shredder stepped forward, caught Raph’s wrist and spun him around. Raph looked at him, wide-eyed. 
“Are we going to ignore what happened?” Shredder asked. 
Raphael stared at him, his mind scouring to remember what Shredder was talking about. Then, it hit him. The feeling of Shredder’s lips against his, the smell of alcohol. The night that made everything more confusing than what it already was. Raph’s mouth fell open, but no sound came out. Raphael shut his mouth and yanked his hand free. He shoved Shredder in the chest, making him stagger back. Then, Raph stepped forward until his body was pressed against Shredder’s. He rested his hands on the shelf either side of Shredder, effectively pinning him. Raph leant forward until his face was mere centimetres away from Shredder. Shredder didn’t move, he simply watched Raph’s face, his hands loose at his sides. 

Raph stared at him for a second, before he closed the distance between them. He kissed Shredder, feeling the warmth of the human’s lips. Shredder’s eyes fell closed and his hands moved to rest on Raph’s waist. He kissed Raph back, seemingly melting under the feeling of Raph’s lips against his. Raph broke the kiss, but didn’t move away. Shredder didn’t open his eyes and didn’t let go. 
“Missed me, Saki?” He muttered. 
Shredder jolted in surprise at the mention of his name, a movement that Raph wouldn’t have noticed if he wasn’t so close. Then, Raph was kissing him again. 

Shredder found himself lost in the sensation, the warmth of Raph against him. It felt like he was there for hours, kissing the mutant in his arms. Then, the warmth was gone, Raph’s shell seemingly disappeared from his hands. Shredder opened his eyes at the click of a door. Raph was gone. Shredder stared ahead, his hands still framing where Raph had been standing, the sensation of Raph’s lips on his quickly fading. Shredder turned his head, and when he did he almost laughed. The Neko-te were gone. 

Chapter Text

Raphael ran through the long, dark halls of Shredder's lair, the Neko-te clutched in one hand. He didn't look back - he refused to. When he reached the first stairs, he jumped onto the railing and slid down it. Upon reaching the end of the railing, he kicked off and flipped into the air before landing in a crouch on the ground. 

Raph took off running again, this time tucking the fingers of the Neko-te against their metallic palms and shoving them into a pocket in his belt. He made it to the end of the hallway and turned left, slowing only to stop himself from slamming into the wall. Raphael scoured his mind, trying to remember the path Shredder had taken from the throne room to the weapons room.

A few more minutes of running made Raph pause. He should have found the second set of stairs by now. He yanked his Tegaki from his belt and slid them on, his gaze flickering up and down the hallway rapidly as if he was expecting somebody to jump out at him any second. The mutant scaled the wall quickly, still looking around cautiously. Raph reached one of the many gargoyles perched high on the creepy hallways that made up Shredder's lair and crouched on its cold, stone back. Raphael buried his face in his hands and groaned. How could he have gotten lost in this damn place? Of all the places. 

A couple Footbots marched down the hallway below. Each of them were clutching Yari in their artificial fists. Raph caught sight of them in the corner od his eye and he immediately pressed himself closer to the wall. He watched them, closely, refusing to blink, as if they would turn around and leap at him if he looked away for a millisecond. 

Only when the Footbots were out of sight, Raph relaxed. He closed his eyes and released the breath he hadn't realised he was holding. A sudden vibration from Raph's belt made him jump. He quickly fished his T-Phone from his pocket and switched it on, unconsciously tucking himself back into the shadows. The screen was lit up with a single text from Donnie. Raph quickly unlocked his phone and opened the message. 
'Hey,' The message read, 'We got out. Where are you? Are you okay?'.
Raphael sighed heavily. He closed his eyes and buried his face in his hand. He stayed like that for a moment, simply thinking about what he could even say to his brother, while currently hiding in their arch nemesis' lair. 
'Fine.' He decided to type, 'Just sneaking out.'
Raph stared at the message for another moment before pressing send. Donnie's reply came almost immediately. 
'What happened with Shredder?' 
Raphael scoffed, "Well ya see, Don," He whispered to the phone, "I kissed him while you guys were fightin' for your lives and  then I robbed him, funny, right?" 
'He got away.' Raph typed instead.
Raph then silenced his T-Phone and shoved it back into its pocket in his belt.

Raphael dropped down from the gargoyle, landing in a smooth, fluid crouch. Then, the mutant straightened and kept moving. He walked to the end of the hallway, where a large, eerily beautiful stained glass window stood encasing the entire wall. The window was mostly made up of gold panes, with the only other colour being the thin black lines fusing the panes together and the white of the angel's dress. The window held an angel, with its head bowed and face hidden by the light from their halo. Flames danced on the angel's right, near the angel's feet, and, from the flames, a clawed hand curled around the angel's in what seemed to be a tender or even desperate grasp. Clouds swirled on the angel's left, near the angel's head, and a hand clutched the angel's wrist, nails digging in enough to draw blood. 
Raph paused to simply stare at the window. Donnie had said that this lair used to be a church, but what kind of church had a window like this? 

The mutant shook his head and clenched his fists. He strode closer to the window, raised his fist and swung. The window shattered the second his fist made impact, sending shards of glass exploding outward. Raph stood there, watching the shards fall into the street below. Then he freed his grappling hook from his belt and aimed it at the edge of the lair's roof on a section of the building that stuck out opposite the now shattered window. 

By the time the Footbots arrived, Raph was gone.

Leonardo paced back and forth, his fists clenched. He was sporting a scrape on his cheek, a bruise on his chin and a small cut on his brow from a very close shave with Tigerclaw. Donnie had a couple bruises on his arms and Mikey was the most unscathed out of the Hamato Brothers, sporting a small cut that was already scabbing over. Casey had a black eye and was limping as if he had broken his toe and April was perfectly fine, having been protected by Donnie and Casey. 

The lot of them had decided to wait on a rooftop a couple blocks away, close enough to see the Shredder's lair but far enough away that the Footclan didn't feel the need to come out and engage. Ten minutes had crawled by since Raph had texted Donnie. Donnie had texted him a couple of times, none of which got an answer. Leo didn't even bother to text Raph himself, knowing that Raph would either ignore it or go do something stupid and send Leo a picture just to piss him off. 
"Are you going to pace like that the entire time?" 
Leo shot Casey a glare over his shoulder, which was met with an equally icy look from the hockey player.
"He shouldn't have run off alone." Leo grumbled, "Shredder is far more dangerous than Raph gives him credit for and Raph is more stupid-" 
"Raph is more capable than you give him credit for," Donnie cut Leo off, "And you know it. Sure, he's a hothead and sometimes he's an asshole, but he's got the skills to back it up." 
Leonardo whirled around to his little brother and opened his mouth to argue. 
"Aw, shucks, Don-A-Tron, I'm almos' tearin' up here." 

Everyone whirled around. Raphael was lying on his side on top of the stairwell door, head leaning against his raised hand with one leg stretched out and the other stuck up, bent at the knee with one foot firmly planted. He had a wide, smug grin on his face despite the fact that his shoulders and possibly the back of his head were covered in little cuts from the shattered glass. Relief immediately pooled through Leo's system, almost completely overriding his annoyance at his younger brother. Almost. 
"What were you thinking, running after Shredder like that?!" Leo snapped, "You could have gotten killed!" 
Raphael's grin immediately vapourised. It was replaced with a furious glare as he sat up and let his legs dangle over the edge of the stairwell. 
"You're the asshole who shoved me through the skylight!" Raph yelled, "That coulda gotten me killed too, jackass!" 
"If you hadn't of pushed me, then I wouldn't have pushed you!" Argued Leo.
Raphael rolled his eyes, "Maybe don't keep secrets from your team, Lame-O-Nardo!" He gestured to the others, "But I guess they already know what you're hidin' from me!" 
"Would you believe us if we told you it was a secret surprise party?" Mikey piped up.
Raph looked at him sternly, "Not even if ya paid me, Mikey." 
Then, Raph turned back to Leo, his glare once more solidifying. 
"Who the fu-!" 
"GUYS!" April cut Raph off, moving to stand in front of Leo. 
Raphael and Leo kept glaring at each other, but said nothing. 
"Let's just go back to the lair and cool off." April suggested, "I'll order pizza and we can forget all about this." 
Raph stood up then, his hands balling up into fists, "I ain' goin' anywhere with you," He pointed an accusing finger at Leo, "'Till you stop bein' a secret-keepin' asshat." 

Raphael then turned around, walked to the other end of the stairwell and dropped off. He could hear Casey shouting after him, but he didn't turn back. The mutant landed on the fire escape silently and made short work of climbing down. Sure, Raph didn't have any room to talk about keeping secrets, but it still infuriated him that Leo didn't trust him enough to tell him what they were dealing with, even if he was what they were dealing with and they just didn't know it. 

Donnie bit back the urge to sigh. He ran a hand down his face and closed his eyes as he drew a deep breath. 
"That went well," Casey said dryly, "Remind me to call you if my sister acts up, Lame-O-Nardo." 
Leonardo whirled around to glare at him. April immediately stepped forward. 
"Let's not fight right now," She pleaded, "Raph is going through something and is taking it out on us. That's all. We still have to investigate Phoenix, right? We can do that now that Raph isn't here." 
Donatello looked a bit uncomfortable at this, but he didn't voice his concerns. Mikey shot him a worried glance, but also kept his mouth shut. Leonardo looked between April and his brothers, his brow twitching. 
"You're right," Leo sighed, "Raph keeps asking questions. He's too sensitive now to let him know we've been keeping this from him." 
"I still don't like this," Mikey said, "We're a team and Raph is apart of that." 
Leonardo nodded, "I know, Mikey. We'll tell him when we have something more concrete on Phoenix. If we told Raph now he would go out and try to fight him and he could get himself killed." 
Mikey looked like he wanted to argue, but he didn't respond. April turned to look at Donnie, wrapping her arms around herself. 
"Shall we go?" She asked. 
Donnie nodded before turning to Leo, "We'll be going around Shredder's territory to see if Phoenix is lurking. You finish patrol and call if you need us." 
Leonardo nodded back, "Same to you. Be careful." 
Donatello forced a smile onto his face, "I'm always careful," He turned away, motioning for April to come closer, "Stay out of trouble, Leo." 
And with that, Donnie freed his grapple gun from his belt, looped an arm around April's waist and pulled her against his side. April reached across his chest with one hand to grip his shoulder and looped her other arm around his shell. With one final glance at his brothers, Donnie fired the grapple gun and he and April zipped off.

Leonardo turned away from them, motioning for Mikey and Casey to follow, and jumped off the roof. Mikey followed without hesitation, but Casey paused to glare after Donnie until he and April were out of sight. 

Raph just kept running. He ran through alleys and, once he got far enough away from his family, climbed up the nearest fire escape and started leaping from roof to roof. He didn't stop until he made it back to his 'safe haven', or rather, the crappy apartment where he hid his secrets.

Raphael thumbed open the lid of the cigarette box as he crouched low on the fire escape, plucked one of the four remaining out of the box and stuck it in his mouth. Once the box was shoved back into his belt, Raph cupped one hand in front of the cigarette and held the lighter up to the end. He pressed down on the button to ignite it, only for it to produce a tiny, stuttering spark. Raphael muttered a curse around the cigarette and tried again. Nothing put a pathetic stuttering spark. Frusrtated, Raph spat out the cigarette, tossed the lighter into the street and forced open the window.

Stepping into the shitty apartment and smelling rotten wood and decay was somewhat comforting to the enraged mutant turtle. Raph guessed it was the familiarity of the space, or the fact that this was the home of his Phoenix suit. Despite this, Raph still changed quickly and left the apartment as if it was about to explode.

Phoenix raced through New York, a grin plastering itself on his masked face. The freeing feeling of being Phoenix always made him feel better. The cold wind whipped around him as he flipped from rooftop to rooftop and the snow crunched with every step, but that went ignored as he shot through the city. The Neko-te were a weight in his belt that he couldn't quite ignore. He had chosen to leave his Sais in the suitcase back in that rotting apartment - a decision that made his guts twist, but he knew, no matter how much he hated to admit it, Shredder was right. If his brothers caught so much of a glimpse at the Hamato symbol engraved on the butt of his Sais while he was out as Phoenix, he was done for.

Phoenix spared a glance over his shoulder. Those Footbots will be following him, no doubt. How long has Shredder been tailing him? Since he first discovered that Raph was Phoenix, or after the trap rooms? It was hard to say, and Phoenix cursed himself for not having an answer. Despite this, Raph didn't bother to try and get them off his tail. He could make use of them, after all.

It took a little while to make it to the docks, even then, he didn't go to the warehouses or to the ports. He paused on a low roof of the security desk and turned to look at the gargantuan building looming over the entire docks. It was a steel mill, one that was owned by Don Vizioso. Here, Don Vizioso's guns and weapons were constructed and tested, as well as some various other things to keep the police off his back. The steel mill was currently out of operation - Don Vizioso stops all production in the mill at seven PM, and nobody is allowed back in until it opens up again at six AM. Don Vizioso prided himself on the steel mill and the quality of his products.

Phoenix allowed himself a grin as he approached the mill. He knew basic blacksmithing, he had to. When they started training with actual weapons and they started getting damaged, chipped and blunt, Splinter assigned Raphael to learn how to fix and craft weapons with the few books he had on it. Raph secretly enjoyed it, despite the fact Splinter chose him because he was the most likely to break his Sais over his brothers and their weapons. Oh, how hard Raph laughed when Splinter realised Donnie would break the most weapons. Secretly, Raph thought Splinter just wanted him to project his anger onto smithing. 
He had a small section of the to himself, a little room adjacent to Donnie's lab (he annoyingly had to go through Donnie's lab to get to it) that had a little anvil, a few tools and a fire place that helped him heat up metal to re-shape or make the weapons. Raph rarely went in there, unless he needed to fix his or his brothers' weapons. The doors Donnie designed was probably the toughest project he's done, and he didn't even do all the difficult wiring or programming. He just made sure everything fit where they were supposed to.

Phoenix started whistling as he got closer. He knew the Footbots would be following him inside, and he would be ready for them.

The steel mill was surrounded by a thick, six-foot wall with a twenty-foot steel fence topped with sharp spear-like spikes. The majority of the steel mill was made up of brick, but the giant chimneys that were strewn all over the roof were made of steel. 'Visioso Steel' was carved into a large, metal arching sign that stood over the large wooden doors that served as the main entrance to the steel mill. The same sign was imprinted into the looming  steel gate. Two cameras were planted either side of the gate and several more were planted around the gate, encircling the entire building, and all over the building itself. 

Phoenix crouched down behind a stack of crates tucked next to a nearby warehouse. He lifte the screen of his helmet a crack and tilted his head back. He whistled sharply, the crisp sound cut through the cold air. A series of caws and coos answered him, which was then followed by the flapping of wings. 

A moment later, Yūrei landed on his shoulder. A few other crows and about a dozen pigeons landed around him, one of the pigeons even landed on his head and nestled there like it was its own personal nest. Yūrei nuzzled Phoenix's helmeted head, flapping her wings happily. Phoenix gave her an affectionate scratch beneath her beak. 
"I need you to cover those cameras for me, okay?" Phoenix nodded over at the steel mill, "I gotta get in there."
Yūrei cawed happily, flapping her wings again, "Cover! Cover!" She echoed. 
With one parting nuzzle, Yūrei flew off of Phoenix's shoulder, cawing at the other birds to follow. Phoenix watched them all fly off to the steel mill, grinning to himself. 

The pigeons perched both in front and on top of the cameras. They pecked at the lenses and flapped their wings, cooing loudly. Only then did Phoenix move. He stepped out from his hiding place and strode over to the steel mill, pushing the face of his helmet back down. He whistled as he approached the mill, folding his arms behind his head.

Shredder sighed to himself as he leaned back in his armchair, a drink swirling in hand. Hours have passed since Raph and his brothers and friends had broke into his lair, and Raph had broken a window on the third floor. 
Hachikō was lying contentedly by Shredder's feet on his back, with his front paws folded against his chest and his hind legs stuck up. The dog was snoring softly, and his tail was wagging. Shredder spared him a glance, humming shortly. He reached down to rub Hachikō's belly, wich made his tail wag even harder and earned a slight smile from the clan leader. 

Right as Shredder brought the glass to his lips, a knock reached the door. Shredder sighed heavily, setting the glass down on the table to his left. 
"Enter." He grumbled, pinching the bridge of his nose. 
A Footbot entered the room, its mechanical arms, clutching a tablet to its chest. It approached Shredder and bowed deeply once he reached him. 
"What is it?" Shredder practically snarled.
The Footbot leaned down and beeped. The Footbot's words had Shredder leaping out of the chair. 
"What do you mean, out of commission?!" He roared. 
The Footbot handed Shredder the tablet. It was unlocked, and a video had been pulled up from what looked like one of the feeds from the cameras built into every Footbot under Shredder's arsenal. Shredder started the video. 

The video showed a large, dark room, filled with machinery, tools and furnaces. A shadow moved and  clawed hand snapped into view. A split-second later, the sparks flew and the screen went black. The video cut to the another Footbot, who whirled around just in time to see the other Footbot fall, and a body looming over it. The figure ripped a clawed, metal, three-fingered hand out of the face of the fallen Footbot. Then, the figure lunged at the other Footbot. Shredder caught a flash of a masked face, and then a clawed, swiping hand. Sparks flew and the Footbot fell with a crash. The video flickered and the figure loomed over the Footbot. With one more slash, the screen went black. Before the video didn't end. The loud, screeching sound of a large, heavy door opening, followed by a shift of clothing and a small, muttered curse. The video ended.

Shredder cursed under his breath and handed the tablet back. 
"That little martyr." He growled before looking up at the Footbot, "Leave me." 

Phoenix whistled to himself as he hauled the two destroyed Footbots over his shoulders. He walked calmly out of the steel mill as if he owned the place. It had taken him about an hour to re-vamp the Neko-te. He had to make the plating on the palms and the parts that go on the back of the hands wider, and used metal from the two extra fingers to make the three he needed wider, He also replaced the hinges and polished them. Beneath all of that rust was a dark, black metal that Phoenix guessed was some kind of rhodium that had a decent weight to it. The Neko-te were something he had to get used to, the claws were two inches longer than his fingers (after the reajustments were made) and it meant he had to be extra careful while handling things. Nonetheless, Phoenix soldiered on.
The Footbots were surprisingly light for fully automated hunks of metal, but then again, Shredder always demanded the best. 

Phoenix just made it through the gates when a dull tune rang from his belt. The sound made Phoenix jump, and he stood there for a good second, confused, as he swore he had muted the T-Phone. He shifted one Footbot so that he was holding both with one arm and started rooting through his pockets for the source of the noise. 
In one of the back pockets, his hands closed around a vibrating device. He pulled it out of his pocket and then it it him. The phone Shredder had given him. It was ringing. 
Phoenix thumbed open the flip phone and looked at the screen. Shredder was calling. He considered letting it go unanswered, but he knew very well just how stubborn the Shredder could be. So, he pushed the little green 'answer' button and pressed the phone to his ear. 
"Hi honey," Phoenix practically purred into the phone, "What's earned me the late night check in?" 
"I think you know why I am calling you." Shredder grumbled. 
Phoenix glanced at the Footbots draped lifelessly over his shoulder, "You're gonna have to be more specific, sweetness." 
Shredder sighed, "I'm not playing these games with you." 
"So you'd rather play the 'let’s stalk the masked vigilante' game?" Phoenix tutted as he walked down the docks, "Why don’t you tell me what I’m doin’? since ya went through the trouble o’ havin’ me tailed.” 
Another heavy sigh answered him, “Why are you at Vizioso’s steel mill, turtle?” 
“Ah ah ah~!” Phoenix chirped, “Use my name, sweetie.” 
“…Phoenix.” 
“Good boy-“
“Don’t push your luck.” Shredder snapped. 
Phoenix chuckled, “Oh, I have plenty of luck to push. But since you asked so nicely, I’m at the steel mill ‘cause your lil’ gift needed some modifications.” 
“You mean the Neko-te that has been in my clan for generations?” 
“Your ancestors need to learn how to clean up their weapons,” Phoenix said, “But yeah, I do. I got six fingers, honey.” 
“You have some nerve.” 
“I got plenty of that ta push, too.” 
“Why did you destroy my Footbots, Phoenix?” 
Phoenix tutted, “I think you know why.” 

Phoenix made it off the dock and immediately climbed the first fire escape he saw. 
“You want them back?” 
“Preferably.” Shredder answered coldly. 
“Are you gonna ask nicely?” 
“No.” 
Phoenix hummed as he leapt across to the next rooftop. 
“Sadly I don’t do deliveries.” He said, “If ya want them, come and get them. I know you track these things, even when they’re out of commission.” 
“What do you even want with my Footbots?” 
“I don’t kiss and tell, baby.” 
Phoenix raised the phone to his lips and blew a kiss. 
“Phoenix-“
Phoenix hung up before Shredder could continue and slid the phone back into his belt. Phoenix smirked to himself as he went in his way. 

Donnie and April sat down heavily on a rooftop parapet. They had been searching for hours. No sign of the enigma that was Phoenix. Donnie scanned their surroundings while April checked her phone. 
“Nothing from the others.” She said, “Must be a quiet night.” 
Donnie hummed, “That’s why I’m so suspicious,” He said, “New York is never quiet.” 
April looked at her phone, and then up at the sign across the street. 
“There’s a nice tea shop just around the corner,” She said, “They do these really nice blends where they mix two or more teas and they taste really nice. How about I get us some tea and we can go over where we haven’t looked?” 
Donnie looked at her, as if considering her offer. After a moment, he nodded. 
“Want some cash for it?” He asked. 
April shook her head, “This can be my treat. You’re buying next though.” 
Donnie smiled slightly, “Sure.” 
April grinned, “Great, wait here. You’re gonna love what I get you.” 

April stood up and dusted off the back of her shorts. Then she trotted to the other end of the roof and started climbing down the fire escape. Donnie watched her until she was out of sight and then stood up to watch her walk down the street until she disappeared round the corner. A knot twisted in his gut, but he forced the feeling down.

A smile crossed April’s face as she approached The Midnight Hour Café. It was a cozy little spot  that April’s been to a couple of times with Irma. Despite not having a massive love for tea, April had to admit that everything this place had was nice and had very unique menu items.

The little bell jingled when April walked in, and the barisa, in the middle of making some kind of milkshake looked up and smiled at her. There were two other people (except for the baristas) in the shop. One was an elderly man sat in a booth with a saxophone on the seat next to him. The other was a man. A man in a motorcycle helmet and a leather jacket with a Phoenix on the back stood at the expo counter. April didn’t register the man at the expo counter, far too focused on trying to remember what she ordered previously that she thought Donnie would love. It took her a second to register the jacket, but when it clicked, she whirled around to look at the man like she had just watched him kill someone. She recognised him from the footage Donnie had gathered. It was Phoenix. What the hell was Phoenix doing in this tea shop?! 

April watched, frozen, as the barista set down two large take-out cups in a cup holder, one for a chocolate milkshake with whipped cream and the other one for what April could guess was tea. As if possessed, April ran out of the shop. Phoenix picked up the two drinks and turned to leave. He paused, looking around in confusion. He could’ve sworn he heard the bell ring. 

With a shrug, Phoenix left the tea shop, calling over his shoulder at the baristas to tell them to have a good night. April watched him, tucked behind a dumpster across the street, as Phoenix walked around the side of the building into the alley. He scaled the fire escape and climbed onto the roof of The Midnight Hour Café. 

Phoenix sat cross-legged on the parapet and pushed the screen of his helmet up just enough to drink his milkshake through the straw. The destroyed Footbots lay in a heap behind him and the cup of tea was set next to him. It took a few minutes for Shredder to arrive. Phoenix didn't hear or see him, but he felt him; the air grew colder and thicker and holes seemed to be burning into the back of his head.
"I got'cha that chamomile and ginger blend." Phoenix called over his shoulder.
Shredder said nothing. He picked up the cup and sat down beside Phoenix. He removed the mouthpiece of his mask and simply stared ahead, taking a long sip of his tea. 
"You're going to get yourself killed one day." He said blankly, "Don Vizioso doesn't like to share his toys." 
Phoenix shrugged, "Well," He took a sip of his milkshake, "Ya don' call me a martyr for nothing, Shreds." 
Shreddder looked down at Phoenix's hands. The Neko-te were polished to a shine, and the modifications looked almost perfect, as if they had been made for a three-fingered mutant turtle and not a five-fingered human.
"You ain' worried 'bout me, are ya, Honey?" Phoenix practically purred.
Shredder scoffed, "Hardly," He answered, "It's hard to worry about someone when they think their life is a game." 
Phoenix chuckled to himself, "Always the sweet-talker."
Shredder rolled his eyes and took another sip of his drink. 

Silence stretched once more. Both men enjoyed their drinks and stared out into the horizon. Phoenix kept stealing glances at him, and Shredder pretended not to notice.
"I'm kinda surprised you came." Phoenix eventually said. 
Shredder hummed, "I'm just here for the tea." 
"It's a good thing I'm just here for your wallet then." Phoenix retorted. 
That earned a sort laugh from Shredder and he shook his head. Shredder stole another glance at the Neko-te on Phoenix's hands. 
"I'm going to guess I won't be getting those back." Shredder said. 
Phoenix raised his free hand and wiggled his fingers. The blades scraped together, making soft 'shnk' noises every time. 
"Not unless your ten fingers turn into six." 
Shredder chuckled softly, "Stupid little martyr," He sounded almost affectionate as he spoke, "Your thieving hands will be the death of one of us." 
Phoenix shrugged, "If it's you, do I get your cologne?" He asked, "Not that mutant bug kind." 
Shredder rolled his eyes and shook his head, though he couldn't stop the small grin from poking at the corner of his lips, "I wouldn't be able to stop you either way, thief." 
Phoenix gently swatted Shredder on the arm, "You love me really, Shreds." 
"I tolerate your existence for my own entertainment," Shredder answered, though his voice didn’t hold any weight, "And I'm here right now for my Footbots, not you." 
Phoenix chuckled and shook his head, "Always the sweet-talker." He said warmly.

Chapter Text

April ducked lower, pressing herself closer against the dumpster despite the repulsive smell. She stared up at Shredder and who she assumed was Phoenix, far too mesmerised to blink. Phoenix wasn't as... Intimidating as she expected, at least, for someone who associates himself with Shredder. He looked almost... Normal. Like some biker who fell in with the wrong crowd.

She couldn't hear what they were saying, but the body language suggested that Shredder and Phoenix were close, or at least friendly. She watched as Phoenix gestured wildly with one hand, then he looked up at the sky, and his hand dropped. Shredder spared the sky a glance, then, he looked down at Phoenix. He stared at him as Phoenix gazed up at the black, cloudy sky, before Shredder turned to look at something on the roof behind him. Phoenix looked back down at his lap before taking another sip of the milkshake he bought. What could they possibly be talking about? Who could honestly have a conversation with Shredder without both parties trying to stab each other?

Phoenix sighed as he set his milkshake down on the parapet next to him. He brought his mask back down and pulled his knees up to his chest. He pulled his mask down and rested his chin on his folded arms. 
"That is all you want?" Shredder asked, setting down his own tea, "You can't be serious." 
Phoenix shrugged, "Hey, I know how it looks," He said, "But that's what I want more than anything." 
"It is... Painfully simple to achieve." Shredder stated.
Phoenix chuckled and shook his head, "Not for a guy like me, Bunny." 
Shredder's eyes narrowed, "How many times must I tell you not to tell me that?" He snarled. 
Phoenix chuckled again, "You could tell me a thousand times, Bunny," He said, reaching up to give one of the horns on the Kuro Kabuto a little flick, "Nothin' can stop me from callin' you that. It's our lil' inside joke." 
"Jokes are funny." Shredder hissed, lowering Phoenix's hand. 
"I'm a riot." 
"No," Shredder picked up his tea cup, "You just start them." 
Phoenix moved his arm back to sit on his knees and looked up at the stars again. 
"Guys like me, Bunny," He said, "Ain' got the smarts for what I want. If I was anythin' like you, or Don, then I would have made it by now, and I..." 
He trailed off and sighed softly. 
"Being smart is dependent on the subject at hand," Shredder countered, pausing to take a small sip, "Make your purple-masked brother watch a sports game, and he becomes the biggest idiot there." 
Phoenix snorts, "You clearly don' know my lil' brother well enough." 
Shredder chose not to respond. 

Phoenix downed the last of his milkshake, set the cup down and stood up. Shredder watched as he stretched his arms over his head and yawned.
"Leaving so soon?" Shredder hummed, setting his tea back down. 
Phoenix turned back to him, "I got places t'be, Bunny," He answered, waving his hand dismissively, "And you seem like a busy guy, I shouldn' be keepin' ya." 
And with that, Phoenix turned his back on Shredder and started walking away. Shredder glanced over his shoulder at the destroyed Footbots piled up behind him before returning his gaze to Phoenix.
"Are you not going to take this scrap with you?" He called. 
That got Phoenix to stop. He turned slowly. He looked at the pile of destroyed robots, then at Shredder, before turning away again. 
"Nah," He said, "The metal woulda made only a few bucks downtown, but drinkin' tea with you is priceless, Bunny," He glanced back at Shredder again obviously grinning behind his mask. 
Shredder arched a brow, "You are still in need of money, are you not?" 
Phoenix scoffed, "I got plenty o' ways of makin' money, Bunny," He answered, "Stealin' things just makes it fun." 
"With what you are," Shredder said, "The only way you'll be making money is in a circus." 
Phoenix turned fully to him this time, resting a hand on his heart, "Please, baby, the only way I'll be put in a circus is if I'm on display for prettiest thing in existence," He replied, clearly amused, "Let's just say my business is in... Entertainment." 
Shredder tilted his head to the side, "Entertainment?" 
"Stand-up comedy," Phoenix shrugged and started to walk away again, "If you wanna get specific." 
“Comedy?”
“You know I'm funny, I've heard you laugh at my jokes,” Phoenix paused on the corner, “‘Till next time, Shreds.”

Without waiting for a response, Phoenix stepped back and calmly dropped off the roof. Shredder stood up and walked to the edge of the roof and peered over the edge. He got there in time to see the manhole cover in the alley below slide into place. Shredder hummed to himself, finished the rest of his tea, turned his back and walked away, fixing the mouthpiece over his face as he went.
 

Donnie looked up when he heard footsteps. He turned around just in time to see April running over to him, her face the picture of panic. He was on his feet instantly and he quickly steadied April once she was in reach.
"April?" He squeezed her shoulders gently, "What happened?" 
April shook her head and drew a deep breath, "I saw Phoenix," She huffed, her chest heaving from the desperate sprint she just went on, "He was talking with Shredder... On, on the roof of the cafe." 
Donnie’s mouth fell open, and a wheeze-like sound escaped him as he tried and failed to come up with something to say. 
“They were talking!” April went on, “Like they were friends! Phoenix brought Shredder tea and everything! He was in the shop when I got there!” 
Donnie immediately looked around, his eyes scanning for any signs of the enigma they were studying. 
“Did he see you?” He asked, his voice sharp as he returned his gaze to his friend, “April. Did he see you?” 
April shook her head, “No.” 
“Are you sure of it?” Donnie looked around again, “If he is an ally of Shredder’s and he saw you spying-“
“He didn’t see me.” April said sternly, “I ran out of the shop before he turned around and hid in the alley until he left.” 
That seemed to get Donnie to relax, though, only slightly. He took one last look around before taking April’s hand. 
“We’re leaving,” He said, “We can re-group at home.” 
“But what if Raph overhears?” 
“Raph listens to rock music and works out in his room for hours when he’s irritated,” Donnie said, “He wouldn’t hear us if we shouted at each other outside his door. I’ll call Leo and tell him, Mikey and Casey to come back.”
“I thought Raph hung out with you while you worked in your lab when he gets angry?” April piped up.
Donnie glanced at her over his shoulder, “Only when he’s winding down,” He replied, “He claims to enjoy watching me ‘nerd out’.”
That earned a little, but fond, laugh out of April, “I never expected you to be so close.”
“We match each other’s flair for the dramatic,” Donnie shrugged, “And we both have tempers.”
“Raph’s more explosive.”
“Raph’s more sensitive,” Donnie countered, “More than you realise.”
April blinked at him, her surprise evident. Donnie didn’t turn to look at her and he didn’t elaborate further, though his grip on April’s hand tightened minutely for a second.

Donnie led April to the edge of the roof and let go of her hand. He climbed off the fire escape calmly, and April followed a few moments later, her hands shaking slightly. Seeing the psychopath that was the Shredder acting so… so human, it freaked her out. April paused to look off in the direction of the Midnight Hour café. A shudder went through her and she continued climbing down the ladder. She followed Donnie silently into the manhole in the middle of the alley, pausing only to dry the manhole cover back into place behind her.

By the time Donnie and April got back to the lair, Leo, Mikey and Casey were already waiting for them. Donnie had called Leo the second he was in the sewers like he said he would, but Leo and Casey beating them was still surprising. 

Casey had been lounging on the couch, but, the second he saw Donnie and April, he hopped over the back and jogged over. 
“Hey!” He said, looking at April in particular, “You guys okay?” 
April nodded, “Yeah, I’m-“ She glanced at Donnie, “We’re fine.” 
Casey gripped her shoulders, “Did he see you-?!”
April pushed his hands away, “No,” She cut him off, “He didn’t. Like I explained to Donnie, I hid before he could see me.” 
This didn’t calm Casey like it calmed Donnie. He eyed April suspiciously, as if he was trying to decide whether or not she was lying. April rolled her eyes at this and pushed past him. 
“Is Raph here?” She asked quietly, glancing up at Raph’s door as she moved closer to Leo. 
Leo shrugged, “If he is, he’s probably asleep,” He jabbed a thumb in the direction of Raph’s room, “No music, so he’s not working out, and he isn’t anywhere in the lair. I checked.” 
Mikey snorted at that, “Raphie never goes to bed this early, Leo. It’s like six PM.” 
“It’s seven thirty, Mikey.” Donnie corrected him. 
Mikey tilted his head, “Po-ta-to po-tah-to,” He replied, “The earliest I’ve ever seen Raph go to bed is ten.” 
Leo waved his hand dismissively, “We’re getting side-tracked. April, we’ll sit down and you can tell us what you saw.”

Together, the three mutants and two humans sat down on the couch. All eyes turned to April. She drew in a deep breath once seated and leaned back against the cushions. She opened her mouth and told them everything. 

The sewers were cold at the late hour, just like always. The sound of rushing water was almost deafening, almost completely drowning out the quiet dripping of leaky pipes. Hours had passed since he had disappeared from the surface and into the twisted stone paths that were the New York City sewers. Raph stumbled through, his footsteps heavy and uneven. His breath was shallow, hissing through gritted teeth and a swelling lip. His knuckles were black and the back of his hands were red with blood that wasn’t his own; his right hand was clenched so tightly it was shaking at his side. 

Raph paused to lean against the wall. He closed his eyes and rested his head against the cold stone, sighing with effort. With his unclenched hand, Raph reached into his belt and retrieved his T-Phone. He switched it on. The time read 1:30 AM, and he had no new messages. No calls. Nothing. 
“They prob’bly think m’sleepin’.” He muttered to himself and he slid his T-Phone back into his pocket. 

The mutant stayed there for a moment, letting himself breathe. His busted lip felt sore and his head was throbbing, but other than that and his messed up knuckles, Raph was just tired and ready to go to bed. 
With a grunt, Raph pushed himself off the wall and staggered on stiff legs further down the path. The stench of raw sewage, something that normally didn’t bother Raph, suddenly made his nostrils burn and his stomach twist. His legs wanted to rest and his entire body was yearning for his bed. 

It took another fifteen minutes for Raph to stumble into the lair. He moved straight into the kitchen, free hand clutching his clenched one to keep it steady.

He didn’t move to the fridge for a drink or the freezer for some ice, he dropped to his knees by the island counter on the side facing the stove. He reached down and hooked his nail in a small, easy to miss hole in the bottom left corner of the wood. With a small tug, a plank of wood came free. Quietly, Raph set the plank down beside him and reached in. He felt around with his hand for a moment, and panic sparked in his chest as he thought Splinter had moved it.

Eventually, Raph’s hand brushed something hard and cold. He grabbed it and yanked it out from the small space. It was a rusty metal lunch box that had a dent where the latch was, meaning it couldn’t lock. On the lid, Splinter had written ‘Family fund’ in black marker. Raph pushed open the lid to reveal a few crumpled-up bills and a small pile of change. Raph raised his clenched, shaking fist so that it was hovering over the box and promptly opened it, allowing himself a huff of relief when he could finally relax that had. Five $20 notes and ten $1 bills fell out and landed in a small heap with the crumpled up notes, crumpled up themselves due to Raph’s grip.

Raphael quickly shut the box and pushed it back info the hole. He slid the plank of wood back in place and braced himself on the counter top of the island. He forced himself to his feet and staggered over to the ladder, groaning at the mere thought of his bed. Splinter wanted the up early for training, and Raph was eager for his four-ish hours of sleep before that.