A/N- Hey guys! So this is the second half of Resolve and Repair, based during TMNT 2003 Season 4 from 'Cousin Sid' to 'Prodigal Son' (it will help to have watched them to understand certain references). Now, I'm afraid to say that I am going to have to take a little break from . I PROMISE IT WON'T BE LONG! The next two stories are HUGE and I am quite proud of them but I need to edit them and establish the stories that follow after them before I can upload them. Plus University work is a little heavy at the moment and my birthday is in a week so YAY! Hopefully the break won't be more than a few weeks but I can't promise anything. But I CAN promise that they will be worth the wait: BIG plot developments ahead, my precious readers.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy this R and R Part 2. I've never written in first person or in present tense before (which was interesting and HARD) so if there are a few mistakes I do apologise although I did proof-read it to death. So, enjoy, as always please review and simply message me if you have any questions, and I shall hopefully see you soon xxx :)

Resolve and Repair Part 2

The first thing I am aware of is music. Sweet music marred by a few dodgy notes here and there, but still pleasant to listen to nonetheless. And I do, my eyes still closed as my other senses begin to awaken. I can smell incense, sandalwood I think, a gentle breeze swirling it above my head and tickling my skin. I can feel some sort of fabric beneath me along with a hardness, as if I am on the floor. I can taste something sour on my tongue, the appendage thick in my mouth. I try to swallow but my throat is dry and grating. The need to move becomes overwhelming as my fingers slowly begin to twitch, my toes following suit. I can feel cloth under my fingers, another scent, some kind of flower, reaching my nose. Whilst my body accumulates all these senses the music continues to play, the lilting tune seemingly rousing me out of my sleep. My eyelids flutter and all of a sudden I can see; I can see a patch of clear blue sky above me, the occasional bird flying across it. Surrounding this patch is an ancient wooden ceiling, decorated in intricate carvings. The sight reminds me of home for some reason, and I can feel my cheeks stretch as I smile. I shift slightly, wanting to sit up when a new sound hits my ears. It is a groan of sorts that makes the music stop instantly. I try to move again when the noise repeats. It takes me a few seconds to realise it is me.

"Venus?" A gentle voice asks, but I do not recognise it. I focus on sitting up, gritting my teeth against the pain in my stomach as I twist slightly. I am suddenly greeted by two strangers, a young boy and a woman, some kind of anthropomorphic cat, as they stare at me curiously. I cry out in surprise, pushing myself away from them.

"Usagi!" The woman cries, smiling, whilst the young boy looks scared at my reaction. A flash of recognition pulses through my mind before footfalls signal someone's arrival.

"What is it Mariko? What-?" The rabbit's eyes meet mine and his face broadens into a smile. "Venus?"

"Usagi?" I ask incredulously. What was he doing here?

"You're awake! Thank goodness you're awake! I must tell the Daimyo." The rabbit begins running out the door.

"The Daimyo? But-" I suddenly wince as I lean forward slightly. I can feel my heart rate increasing as I process everything around me. Where was I exactly? And where are the guys?"

"Usagi, wait. Give Venus a moment to get her bearings before bringing the Daimyo in here. No doubt she has many questions."

I turn to face the soft voice by my side, grateful for their help even if I don't recognise them. I relax a little as I recognise the room as the Battle Nexus' healing chamber. The woman smiles at me.

"Do not worry Venus, you are safe here. Just try not to move too much, okay?"

I nod, allowing her to help me sit up whilst the child hides behind her robe, peering at me from behind a fold of fabric. I recognise him but cannot place how or why. The woman seems to notice.

"Do not worry your Highness, Venus is alright. She was just a little bit startled by us, that's all." The woman smiled at the child before turning back to me. "This is the Daimyo's son."

My eyes widen in surprise before I remember Lord Simultaneous' gift to the Daimyo; his son, reborn as a child, innocent from corruption. I smile at the boy.

"It is lovely to meet you, your Highness." I state, bowing my head in respect. To my relief the child smiles, revealing a toothy grin.

"It is wonderful to meet you too Venus. My father and Usagi-san have told me lots about you."

"They have, have they?" I reply, raising a questioning brow towards Usagi. He shrugs his shoulders innocently.

"Uh huh," the child nods. "And Mariko and I have been looking after you. You've been asleep for a ages."

My eyes widen at the statement as Mariko shifts slightly, suddenly a little awkward. "Your Highness, why don't you go with Usagi to inform your father? I'm sure he would very much like to speak to Venus."

"Okay!" The child smiles before running out of the chamber, Usagi hurrying to catch up with him.

"Such a sweet boy," Mariko muses before turning back to me. "I'm sorry about all that. It must have been a little surprising to wake up to."

"Just a tad," I reply, smiling slightly. "How long have I been out exactly?"

"Err, around nine weeks."

I don't have time to react before Usagi returns, the Daimyo and the healer who helped Leonardo on our first visit here being lead in tow.

"It is wonderful to see you awake, Venus. I hope you are feeling well." The Daimyo beams, sitting on a chair at the foot of my 'bed'.

"A little groggy but awake nevertheless. Thank you for all your help."

"You must thank the determination of Master Paku, Mariko and Miyamoto Usagi. They have not left your side since your arrival."

"Nine weeks is a long time," I state, surprised at how quiet my voice has gone.

"Yes it is," the Daimyo sighs, a solemn look upon his face. "You have had us all very worried, but you are strong to come back to us so soon."

"'So soon'? It's been nine weeks!"

"Yes, but it is clear that you do not fully understand the injuries you suffered."

I frown before Master Paku sits down at my side. "What is the last thing you remember?"

I try to think, my brain swirling back to my last conscious thought.

"I was in a closet with Raphael. He had crawled out, leaving me to sleep but I remember just feeling so heavy. I could see my old home in China when suddenly a darkness came upon the glade. I tried running but I couldn't move, so it consumed me." I turn to see Master Paku nodding whilst making notes on a scroll. "Is that weird?"

"Not at all Miss Venus. Hallucinations often strike us when we have lost a considerable amount of blood."

"What do you mean? The Utroms' transfusion worked…didn't it?"

"I'm afraid not child. It is difficult enough to replicate blood that has been altered by the 'mutagen' that makes you and your family so unique in your world, but I'm afraid your blood is even more special."

Mariko steps forward to hand me a cup of green tea. I take it gladly, the warmth in my hands comforting and stabilising as I try to comprehend everything that has happened these past few weeks.

"The stone fragments that got caught in the wound on your leg as a hatchling dissolved into your blood stream, giving you the natural ability to learn the Shinobi arts as if you had been born to a Shinobi yourself. This you know. But the miniscule fragments actually latched onto your blood cells, meaning your magical energy could constantly flow with your circulation. These fragments cannot be simply 'cloned'; they are unique to the Lunar stone, which flows within you, and can only be passed on through your direct descendents. The reason the transfusion didn't work is because the blood your friends created didn't contain any magical 'cells'; in a sense, it was pure blood, but your body cannot run on that:

"After a Shinobi has been learning their art for a certain amount of time, they cannot simply relinquish the energy that develops within them. Even if they stop learning the art, the energy will remain, and has to for their body to function properly. I.e. it becomes as vital to their survival as blood itself, especially if they have been learning for a long time or are a five-elementer. So for you, when you were wounded by your enemy, you did not just lose a substantial amount of blood, but a dangerous amount of your internal energy as well, as the shards were attached to your blood cells. A 'pure' blood transfusion would therefore be rejected by the body and wouldn't be able to circulate properly, seeping out of any wound it could find.

"The only way to fix the problem would be to expose you to heavy dosages of the origin of your power. Of course, the Lunar stone is lost to us in a solid form, but the moon itself still shines strong. The Daimyo sensed a shift in the magical balance in the multi-verse, and tracked it down to you. We arrived in your world and brought you here, laying you under a sky-light that would expose you to the moon's glow all night every night as long as it shone. We also placed the Solar stone in your constant presence; as the Lunar's natural opposite, it would react with the remaining shards in your blood and 'awaken' them almost, whilst the moon's light would 're-charge' them. All of this combined meant that the shards remaining would gain more energy and multiply, slowly increasing your internal energy back to its original level, allowing you to survive and live another day."

I stare at the healer, eyes wide as I try to comprehend what he has just told me. Chung I never really explained the biology of being a Shinobi; perhaps he thought I was too young to understand, or didn't care for the science side to magic. Either way, I realise that it is a piece of information I really wish he had informed me on.

"I know it is a lot to take in," Master Paku assures me, seeing the look on my face. "It is a long and arduous experience for your body and spirit; I am surprised you woke up so soon."

"She is strong." I hear Usagi state somewhere behind me, but my ears are completely focused on Master Paku.

"Yes, I suppose you are. And now you are awake, you can begin recovering. I think the first task should be moving Miss Venus to her own room, don't you think Daimyo?"

"I think that is an excellent idea Master Paku. Venus?"

I blink a few times before I realise that the Daimyo is talking to me. I quickly nod before attempting to get up. My knees seem to creak as I bend them but they completely give once I manage to get on my feet. I slam down onto the floor, Usagi grabbing me under my arms. I shake him off, trying again.

"I can walk," I claim through gritted teeth, although my rational side knows I am lying.

"Venus, there is no shame in asking for help." Usagi states as I fall again, giving me a look that reminds me of Master Splinter. It makes me think of his sons' pride; how many situations would have been made a lot simpler if they had just asked for assistance in any form. Even Mikey would sometimes shut them out, although he was usually the first to admit defeat. And I realise that it was a habit that has rubbed off on me, although when I was living with my father, I had never had to ask for help; Chung I was usually there to assist automatically, or the situation didn't require help. My life had been fairly peaceful as a child.

I take the samurai's offered hand and allow him to throw my arm over his shoulders, supporting most of weight as my legs get used to working again after nine weeks of inactivity. We walk out of the healing chamber, taking small steps down various corridors until we come across a set of ornate doors. Mariko goes ahead and unlocks one of the left, the key turning with a heavy thump before the hinges creak lightly as the door swings open. I am greeted by a blast of sunlight as Usagi leads me inside, the beams seemingly frazzling my corneas as I blink repeatedly to clear my vision of black spots while I stand on my own. The room smells clean and fresh, and when I am finally able to see I notice it is simply furnished, a large bed standing in the corner with a small table and armchair. Another door leads to a small bathing room, the fittings made of what looks like jade. There is definitely a far-east Asian theme, a mural of dragons flying over mountains and forests delicately decorating one wall. It is then I realise the other walls are covered in drawings on parchment; sketches of Usagi, Mariko, Master Paku, and the Daimyo with his young son. I smile when I recognise other figures too; the guys grinning together around Master Splinter, Mikey with his Battle Nexus trophy, Leo and Usagi sparring, even me standing and laughing with my family. But there is one in particular that catches my eye; I am lying on the floor in what looks like the healing chamber, with the guys and Splinter kneeling around me, apart from Leo, who stands slightly aloof, looking down on the scene with such sorrow that I find my breath caught in my throat as I remember a child has drawn these. I turn to find the Daimyo's son peering at me shyly.

"They are beautiful," I praise, clearing my throat. The last image is a little haunting. "You are very talented."

"Father and Usagi have told me much about you and your family's adventures. I tried to draw them so that your room would be filled with your loved ones and memories for when you woke up."

My throat catches again and I find my eyes stinging with tears. The memory of this child's previous form seems to wash away; all the anger and jealousy has disappeared, leaving behind a child of innocence and thoughtfulness. I kneel down, bowing my head in thanks, and as if sensing my gratitude, he steps forwards and hugs me tight. I am taken aback for a second; I have never been this close to a child, and as I peer at the Daimyo's face I realise what a joy it must be to be a parent. I smile as he releases me before slowly standing back up, focusing on not falling over.

Mariko suddenly swings open a set of glass doors that also serve as windows. The fresh breeze tickles my neck as I eagerly step forward into the outside air. I can feel myself waking up a little as my senses are exposed to nature once again. I can see the rolling mountains and woods of the Battle Nexus, the river intertwining through the valley. I smile at the birds flitting through the foliage in large formations, creating shapes of shadow in the sky, almost as if they were dancing, whilst the sunlight dips suddenly, the terracotta sun sinking slightly behind the mountains. With a painful pang, I am reminded of home.

"It is getting late," the Daimyo announces. I jump at his voice, not realising he was stood next to me. He turns and smiles. "And no doubt you are hungry."

As if on cue, my stomach lets out an angry growl, causing the Daimyo to chuckle.

"The kitchens are preparing you some dinner as we speak and will bring it up here in a few moments. For now we shall leave you to your own will until tomorrow. There are plenty of scrolls for you to study at your leisure but I implore you to get an early night. Your training begins in the morning."

"Training?" I ask, confused whilst the party begin exiting the room.

"Yes," the Daimyo, smiling albeit sadly. "Your body needs to build up its strength again as it's been laying flat on the floor for well over a month. And your Shinobi energy needs somewhat 'exercising' before it is safe for you to return home. Your family agreed that it was best for you to stay here until you were completely healed."

"They did? When?"

"When they visited a few weeks back. Michelangelo was challenged to a re-match of his Battle Nexus victory due to the circumstances in which he won before. Believe me," he quickly adds, seeing my raised brows. "They did not want to have to leave you here for longer than was necessary, but as Leonardo rightly stated, we can help you more than they can due to your Shinobi healing."

I merely nod, a little numb at his words as the Daimyo exits, murmuring 'goodnight' as he leaves. Quick footsteps make me turn around to see the Daimyo's son suddenly run back inside my room and press something into my hand.

"Michelangelo asked me to give it to you when you woke up."

He runs back to follow his father, closing the door gently and leaving me alone. I turn to step back out onto the balcony, the evening sky growing pinker as the sun finally goes to rest behind the mountains. I hadn't realise that my family had visited; suddenly I feel ashamed that I didn't wake for them, surprised that I didn't sense their presence, and if the child's picture is anything to go by, guilt decides to gnaw at me too.

I open my hand to find a crumpled piece of paper. I unfold it gently, careful not to let the gentle breeze carry it away. I instantly recognise Michelangelo's handwriting:

'Dear Venus,

If you are reading this then you are finally awake. Yay! I mean, I knew you would wake up, but it was just a little scary seeing you asleep for so long. We're all visiting the Battle Nexus because I got challenged to a re-match by that creepy purple guy I beat before, remember? If I'm honest, I'm a little scared, but Leo has got me training a lot. And I mean A LOT. Even more than Master Splinter has us work when he thinks we've been slacking off. Leo's pretty tough when he decides to play Sensei. In all honesty he's been a little tough ever since the Daimyo came to the farmhouse. He said he sensed an 'in-balance in the spiritual energy of the world', which is how he knew to find you. We found you in the cupboard back at the farmhouse covered in blood. Apparently the transfusion didn't work and now you have to be exposed to some stone or something. The Daimyo did explain it all but you know how lots of Shinobi talk makes my head hurt.

Anyway, now that you're awake you need to hurry up and recover. The Daimyo said you can't come home until you are 100% again, and Leo and Don agreed that the Battle Nexus is the best place for you at the moment. But we miss you lots, even Raph, though he'll never admit it. Sensei seems to be meditating a lot more at the moment, mentioning something about trying to reach your spirit but he gave up after a while, suggesting you were 'too far gone', whatever that means. But you're awake now! So, please try and get better. If I have to deal with grumpy Leo for much longer then I'm gonna overdose on pizza!

See you soon, Venus,

Love Mikey xxx

P.S. Klunk says hi

I smile at the letter, trying not to cry. I feel awful for keeping them waiting like this, and resolve to heal as quick as I can. Leo's mood sounds a little suspicious but a gentle knock at the door brings me out of my thoughts.

"Miss Venus? I have your dinner here."

My stomach growls in eager reply and I smile to myself as I slowly step towards the door. I am greeted by a small man in a white chef's jacket, a small hat upon his head. He wheels the small trolley in and reveals some sort of stir fry underneath the metal lid.

"Enjoy." He simply states before leaving. I stand a little dumbfounded at his abruptness as the door closes but my stomach growls in protest. Eagerly I grab the provided chopsticks and tuck in.

By the time I am finished the sky is inky black and the room's cold from the open door; although delicious, not eating solid food for over a month has caused my stomach to shrink a little. But I am determined to finish the meal, taking a couple of hours to door so. Groaning, I rise from the chair to close the doors before peering into the washroom. Immediately the sight of the grand jade tub sparks an urging. I twist the taps to allow steaming water to flow out, peering at the mixture of herbs and oils on the side. I choose lavender to help me sleep and sooth my skin, the oil turning the water a delicate purple. I go to take off my mask when I find it isn't there, along with none of my gear. I frown, stepping back into the bedroom when I notice all of my pieces neatly folded on my pillow ready for the morning. I cringe slightly, not realising I hadn't been wearing anything during the whole conversation. The guys and I don't exactly where clothes but still…without my gear and mask, I feel almost naked, never taking them off except for bed and bathing. I shake my head with a small smile for some reason before turning back to the washroom and clambering into the bath, the lavender immediately infusing my senses. I allow my limbs a good long soak, very aware that I haven't bathed properly for over a month. I lie there for over an hour, my mind mulling over things that may have happened during these few weeks: I remember the extent of my family's injuries and hope that they are well. I hope the situation with Casey's cousin was sorted out okay. I hope the guys are happy and training in the lair, safe and sound. A little part of me hopes they miss me just a little bit, the Daimyo's son's drawing making me realise that of course they do. Yet they had only visited once, although the journey to the Nexus is taxing with the ritual and all.

When I realise I am arguing with myself I force myself out of the bath, clean my teeth and thoroughly dry off before turning to the glass doors. I pull the net curtain across but not the heavy one in front of it, wanting to see the moon if I wake up in the night. Then I steadily step towards the bed and clamber in, passing out as soon as my head hits the pillow. Only the light of dawn wakes me the next morning.

The next few weeks are painfully slow: I almost have to learn how to walk again my limbs are so weak. On the first morning Mariko and a steward come to collect me to have breakfast with the Daimyo and his son. They both smile when I enter the room, the latter practically grinning as we settle down to eat.

"I warn you now," the Daimyo begins, enjoying a cup of green tea. "The next couple of weeks shall be a struggle for you. You must re-engage with your link with the elements, along with re-establishing your mobility and flexibility. The former takes precedence, and when completed, you should be able to return to your family."

I nod, understanding immediately that the process will be long and slow. "So, what exactly will happen?"

"Well, Master Paku and Mariko shall keep an eye on your physical progress, Usagi helping with your basic mobility whilst I assist your Shinobi training."

I am slightly taken aback: being trained by a daimyo is a great honour, yet here I was, eating in his palace and enjoying a life of luxury, even if only for a short while. But the mention of my family stirs a pang within me, and I realise how much I suddenly miss them.

"Well then, shall we get started?"

We began by meditating. A lot. The Daimyo wants me to connect to my spiritual self, which doesn't take long thanks to my qigong training. I soon feel my mind opening up, a sense of clarity permeating it. And after a little longer, I feel something that I recognise with a smile. A familiar spark at the very centre of my being.

"Well done Venus. That is enough for today though. Usagi will now take over."

"But I can try and use my magic."

"One step at a time, young one. We do not want to over exert you."

I sigh, remembering I have to be patient, before Usagi takes the Daimyo's place in the sun-dappled courtyard. He begins by making me stand on my own, which I manage to do, after four attempts, and then I have to take a few steps on my own. I force myself to walk across the courtyard, my legs burning and shaking towards the end. When I reach the fountain, I realise how out of breath I am, sweat streaming down my face. I don't even realise when Usagi places a gentle hand on my shoulder.

"It's alright Venus. You did well, but maybe we should leave it for today. Although Master Paku still needs to assess you."

I nod, letting go of the fountain to walk towards the Healer's Hall. I sense Usagi take a step towards me.

"I can walk." I state through gritted teeth.

"I know, but if you push yourself too much the longer it will take you to get home."

I acknowledge his words but carry on walking, hearing a mutter of 'stubborn turtle' before I go inside.

The Healer's Hall is cool, the scent of jasmine incense filling the air. Mariko greets Usagi and I before taking me to a chair to wait for Master Paku.

"He is just dealing with one of the Daimyo's samurai," Mariko explains, more so to Usagi than to me. "A nasty sprain from training this afternoon. The Daimyo is really pushing them at the moment."

"He needs them to be on their toes. He's decided that they are needed not just in his dimension but in others too. He's thinking of making the Battle Nexus a training centre for budding samurai, so that anyone can train if they choose. They don't have to come from a samurai family." Usagi added.

"Well, that's wonderful, isn't it?"

"Yes. Expanding our culture can only solidify it. But do we then lose a sense of tradition? The Daimyo has asked me to lead a few training sessions to get a different view on things rather than just relying on his generals."

Usagi bowed to Master Paku as he arrived before making his way to the injured samurai. Mariko remained with me, waiting to take notes on my condition.

"Good afternoon Miss Venus. How are you feeling today?" Master Paku began, smiling warmly.

"Good actually. I think my session with Usagi really helped."

"How do you feel walking?"

"A little stiff but fine other than that."

"Good, good. Well then, if you'd like to stand up I will see how you are getting on."

I stand up straight, determined to show that I am perfectly capable of walking on my own. I take a deep breath before setting off around the room, keeping the rhythm of my legs steady and constant. It doesn't take long for my calf-muscles to start burning but I carry on, earning a few glances from the other patients in the chamber. I can't stop the sweat appearing on my forehead though.

"Alright Venus, that is enough." Paku orders, inviting me to stand in front of him. "I can see that you are stronger than we had expected you to be, but you still struggling."

"I'm fine-"

"Venus, please." Paku interrupts, his face stern. I lower my head slightly. "I have been doing this for a long time. I can tell when a patient is pushing themselves too hard too soon. Your determination is admirable, and I know you are eager to return home to your friends. But you won't be a lot of good to them if you cannot walk a few steps without wearing yourself out."

I don't say anything, keeping my gaze focused on the floor. Master Paku sighs.

"Come, let me show you some stretches that will strengthen your flexibility and muscles. I'd like to see you running by the end of the week."

My gaze shoots up and I smile, sensing the healer's honesty. I nod, keeling down on the mat to listen to Paku's instruction.

The stretches turn out to be more strenuous than I had originally imagined. They were about balance as well as strength, for Paku believed the pair came hand in hand. I have to stand on one leg for a certain amount of time, before stretching it out behind me, shifting onto tip-toe, and then bringing my leg round to form a right angle adjacent to my body. It looks like a bizarre ballet dance. But I perform these stretches every morning and night without fail, breathing through the pain. It gets easier after a few days, and Usagi has me do other exercises too, such as stomach crunches to strengthen my core. They make my muscles scream in pain whenever I try to sit up by myself when in bed or bathing, but ignore it, performing extra sets in the morning before breakfast. He even has me trying to perform push ups, but with little success.

"Venus, we need to improve your upper body strength as well as your legs." Usagi explains after I have to stop after just four reps, my best so far. "Push ups are the best way to do it."

"Yeah, if you don't have a shell." I mutter, trying to catch my breath. I remember the guys doing this occasionally back at home and seeing them worn out after every time. They didn't do it often, just enough to keep their arms toned.

"Well then, how do you normally keep fit?"

"Well, we go on training runs a few times a week. Raphael lets me borrow his weights and then we try and hold our body weight by hanging on to a pole and lifting ourselves above it."

"Interesting," Usagi ponders. "Well, we don't have exactly have a pole for you to hang on to or weights like Raphael's, but a few of the larger samurai use rocks and boulders to test their strength."

"Rocks and boulders?" I ask, snorting slightly.

"Simple, I know. But they get the job done. And we can try running too, if you like?"

"Really?"

"Why not? Your walking has improved dramatically since your first attempt just a few days ago."

I nod, and set myself in a corner of the courtyard. I was to run to the other side, see how I felt, run back, check again and then do a whole lap of the yard. I do as I am told. I can feel my heart hammering in my chest, but it takes a while for my legs to start burning and that old feeling of freedom when running comes back to me. After a third lap of the courtyard I am told to stop and to perform my stretches to stop my limbs from seizing up. These too have improved, and I can hold my leg up for twice as long as I could when I first tried to. Usagi smiles at me proudly.

"You are improving every day. Come, I shall take you to the samurai training centre. We can test out your arms there."

I roll my eyes but follow on eagerly. I can tell that I'm exceeding both Usagi and Master Paku's original expectations. The realisation that home perhaps isn't that far away anymore makes me smile.

The samurai already at the centre looked at me and smirk, lifting huge boulders in display. I roll my eyes again and walk towards a chunk of rock the size of a basketball. It had been smoothed so as not to cut anyone's hands. What I was not expecting was the sheer weight of it. It was like lifting a sphere of solid marble. I manage to lift it up to my chest but can't manage any further than that.

"Why not try something smaller?" Usagi suggested, ignoring the sniggers I'm receiving from the others.

"No, it's fine, I can-"

"Venus, there's no shame in starting low and then building yourself up. That is how nature works." Usagi steps closer when I scowl at a samurai behind him. "They may be stronger than you but you have speed and skill on your side and can beat them in a dual, when back to your normal self again."

"They don't seem to know that." I growl, turning to find a smaller boulder.

"Oh they will. If you show the same determination here that you have with me this past week, you'll prove yourself and earn their respect."

I consider the warriors around me. They remind me of the guys when I first moved in with them. They would constantly watch me train, working out how skilled I was, my weaknesses and strengths. These samurai were no different. I smile at the thought.

"Then we better give them a show worth watching."

I am only allowed to push myself so far during this session, only managing to lift the smaller boulder above my head before Usagi ends the practice. Stretching my arms as I leave the centre, I try to block out the sniggers from the samurai. The next day is similar, and the one after that. In fact it isn't until the middle of my third week that I have a breakthrough with my recovery. I can do nearly 10 laps of the courtyard with no problem. I can do all of my stretches on tip-toe, my stomach muscles have stopped aching and have helped solidify my plastron. The wounds I received on the night that had prompted all of this have also healed well, leaving scars admittedly but they no longer sting if I overstretch myself. And at last I reached the top set of weights. I can lift the first two out of five, not quite above my head, but it was a definite improvement over the last week. The samurai no longer chuckle at my attempts but look on in awe. Pride floods through me when Master Paku congratulates me on my progress, cutting my assessments down to just three times a week. But my joy is always dissipated when I trained with the Daimyo.

Although I had managed to reach my core in my first session, I still haven't managed to improve beyond that. I can tell the Daimyo is frustrated, and one session in particular was particularly dramatic:

"I don't understand what I'm doing wrong," I complain after failing to shift a small pool of water. I can feel the energy within me but I can't transfer it outwards.

The Daimyo is silent, as if considering the situation. I can sense tension in the air which makes me uneasy.

"I believe you have been focusing too much on your physical recovery rather than your spiritual one," he announces, taking me by surprise. "This has made it difficult for you to connect to the elements because you simply haven't really been trying."

I feel anger bubble within my chest. "Well I can assure you that I have. I have been trying non-stop."

"Then perhaps you need a break," he suggests, standing suddenly.

"Sir, please. I know I can do it, I just need more time. What I went through was deadly serious, losing the very essence that gives me my magic. It just needs time to build itself back up again."

"Miss Venus, you know as well as I do that physically you can perform Shinobi magic. You can feel the energy in your very veins. What you lack is the discipline and connection to nature for you to actually be able to use that energy."

I take a deep breath, trying to keep my patience. "Then what do you suggest?"

"That you take a break. Come back to me in two weeks and I shall see if you are ready yet."

"Two weeks? You must be joking!"

I am incredulous at the Daimyo's suggestion but he merely ignores me, leaving the courtyard.

"I shall see you then."

I feel betrayed, both by myself and by his lack of faith in me. I try to control my anger when I sense Usagi standing behind me, having witnessed the whole conversation. He takes a step forward but I stop him before he can say anything.

"I want to practice swordsmanship again."

Usagi stutters, clearly not expecting my request. "What?"

I turn and face him, deadly serious.

"I know my katana is here, locked away so that I can't train with it and do myself mischief. But I need to channel my energy somehow, so why not sword training?"

"You would have to learn samurai techniques-"

"I remember my ninjitsu training, Usagi," I interrupt stubbornly. "I only need supervision."

To my surprise Usagi smiles. "Fine, but first you must join the other samurai and I on a training run in the woods."

My eyes widen slightly at the opportunity. "I get to leave the palace?"

"Yes, with us. I think the soldiers need to see just what you can do."

I smile, following the rabbit to the samurai training centre where a gate stands open. The group are stood together before it, ready to begin. They grin when Usagi and I arrive, a few chuckling slightly. I ignore them, taking my place amongst them. A shout goes out and the group begins to move off, starting at a gentle jog through the narrow gateway before sprinting once the land opens up. The dry mud is soft against my feet, a few fallen leaves softening the sound of my footsteps. A track runs up through the woods, heavily trodden with previous training runs. I overtake a few samurai, smiling as I do so. Usagi sticks with me but I can tell he wants to run off further, so I push my legs to go faster, increasing my pace to a gentle sprint. Usagi smiles at the change in speed, and we overtake more samurai.

The track runs as a loop through the forest, circling the Battle Nexus, which stands below us slightly as the path goes up a slight incline. The run lasts about an hour, Usagi and I finishing quite near the front. He then takes me to the weapons centre where I find my katana locked in a glass cabinet. I can't help smiling when I see it, grinning when I hold it. The soft leather feels familiar in my hands, the light blue fabric mirroring my mask and marking it as mine. With other samurai training around me, I swing it, beginning a simple kata which I execute perfectly. I try another, and another, my sword feeling natural in my palms. It is only when the gong for dinner rings out that I realise I have attracted an audience. The surrounding samurai had stopped their training at some point to watch me and my methods. I clear my throat, prompting everyone to clear up to go get some dinner. I find my sword's casing and clip it onto my belt, sheathing the blade on my back. With its subtle weight I feel myself again, a sense of balance descending upon me.

I eat dinner with Mariko and Usagi, simply absorbing their conversation about Mariko's medical training. The Daimyo and his son are not present, for which I am glad. I decide to study the scrolls I have been given after dinner, leaving my friends to go to my room. The symbols before me discuss different methods of mastering quintessence, the fifth element, but I feel hopeless as I cannot even re-connect with the elements I have already mastered. The images seem to blur into one when I suddenly jolt myself forwards. I look at the small clock on the table, and it reads '4 A.M'. I must have fallen asleep, but now I am restless, my mind whirring with indistinguishable thoughts. I leave my room to go for a walk, finding myself subconsciously heading towards the samurai's gate, which stands unguarded. I gently open it and stare at the landscape, the gentle blush of dawn tickling the horizon. I shut the gate behind me and head off at a sprint, believing the cool morning air will clear my mind. On one side stands the Battle Nexus, strong and solid, before me a path trodden by many others. But on my right are the woods that remain a mystery. I turn off, heading into their darkness, away from the path. There are logs and boulders littering the ground, and I have to jump and leap to avoid them. In a way I am reminded of New York, when we would leap from building to building. I feel a smile on my face as I pick up my pace, swiftly avoiding all obstacles that would trip me up. I don't see the ravine until I am leaping over it.

My form is slicing through the air, the momentum of my run sending me forward even though I hadn't seen the gap. I look down to see a small stream, sharp rocks and brambles acting as a deadly net. But I know I will land safely on the other side, I can just feel it. It isn't just my momentum that is sending me forward. There is something else too. It takes me a couple of seconds to realise my hand is setting a jet of air behind me.

I land with a soft thud, the grass cushioning my feet as I release the stream of air. I look at my hands in amazement, turning back to the ravine. I can sense the water down below, and try to draw it upwards. There is a moment in my concentration when I can sense everything around me: the trees and their buried roots, the insects running through the undergrowth, the wind rustling the canopy above. When I open my eyes I see a stem of water floating in the air. I twist my hand and the water mimics the movement, almost dancing. I smile and let it drop back down, elation filling me. I start running again, making more daring jumps, using the air to push me further upwards. I clear my path by moving rocks to either side, putting them back again once I've passed without even turning round. I realise that the joy and freedom I feel with my connection has been lost these past few months. I feel as though I could take on a whole legion of Foot soldiers by myself, maybe even the Shredder.

I suddenly pause when the latter thought comes to me, and find myself in a glade. It is tranquil and still, birds beginning their chorus as dawn approaches. I look at my hands, bracing myself for my final test: I form a strong stance, arms out in front, one slightly ahead than the other. I close my eyes, blocking out my surroundings and focusing within myself. I remember everything that has happened since that terrible night: the samurais' laughing, the Daimyo's disappointment, my failure. And then the memory of the Shredder's attack on my family flashes through my mind, causing anger to flood through me. My inner zeal that had been so hard to find when I first moved to New York suddenly sparks alight again, and I feel the gentle tickle of fire in my palms. I am tense, knowing how destructive it can be, but I keep it under control, not wanting to mar the beauty of the glade. I release the flame, its gentle roar fading into birdsong, loud and musical due to sun's arrival.

I do not know how long I have been in the woods. I notice that the sky is lighter, and as I get to the edge of the trees I can see flashes of sunlight peeking through. The orb is orange when I eventually find the path again. The light is almost blinding as it reflects off the fountain water in the courtyard below. I decide to head back before I am called for breakfast, but rather than go to my room I head through the gate and towards the courtyard instead. There is no one around when I reach my training ground, and so taking a strong stance once again, I begin controlling fire. I create small flames, making them dance in the air only to become water as I summon droplets from the fountain, steam emitting from the point of connection. They too dance until I cause I blast of cold air to turn them into ice and drop to the ground. I then sweep up sand and dust from the floor and swirl them in the air, using both the wind and earth to move them. Fire then returns to the company and I continue this unique dance until I feel someone watching me:

The Daimyo is stood in the adjacent corridor, looking onto the courtyard. I freeze immediately but make sure that the water falls back into the fountain with grace. I swiftly bow as he steps towards me, and he bids me to rise. I am surprised to find him smiling.

"My dear, there are very few in this world that can make all four elements dance all at once."

I shrug, frowning slightly.

"I could do it before. Michelangelo particularly liked it. I've been able to do it for a while."

"Yes, well now you can do it once again."

There was an awkward pause while the Daimyo sat on the fountain's edge.

"What happened?" he asks, disbelief still flooding his face. I shuffle on the spot slightly, colour rising to my cheeks.

"I took your advice." I admit, sighing. "I decided to go for a run. I took myself off the beaten track and focused purely on the nature around me rather than my actual magic. And then before I knew it I was soaring through the air, unknowingly blowing myself across a ravine to lengthen my jump."

The Daimyo looked dumbstruck and didn't seem to realise the crowd that had gathered in the courtyard, Mariko, Usagi and Master Paku included. And then the Daimyo laughed. He laughed joyfully, clutching his stomach and gripping the fountain for support. He could barely speak for his laughter.

"My dear, this…this is wonderful…wonderful news." He began, standing up straight again. "You are healed, completely healed."

"Does that mean I can go home?" I ask, hope filling my senses.

"No."

The answer is short and a shock, not just for me but for everyone surrounding us.

"Not because I am being cruel Miss Venus," the Daimyo explains. He smiles. "You still need your practice, and so you shall remain here for a few more days to truly test your strength, where you will be safe. And I shall be more than happy to be your sparring partner."

The last comment catches me off guard as the Daimyo readies himself in a defensive stance, his war staff gripped tightly in both hands. I frown as a ring of spectators forms around us, and realise with a start that the Daimyo wants me to fight him. I too form a stance before sending a sharp gust of air in his direction. He blocks it with his staff and it dissipates immediately. I try water and fire next, the same thing happening to both. So I send a weighted boulder in his direction, with the intention of stopping it just before it hits the Daimyo. But my opponent dodges the attack in good time, surprising me with his agility and causing me to drop the rock. So I change tactic: I send jets of water, dust, air and fire in his direction at constant intervals, trying to wear him down, but they do nothing. He then sends a spark of electric power from his staff in my direction. I yelp and dodge it, along with the ones that following, switching from offensive to defensive. I can't get a shot in between the Daimyo's attacks until he waits just a second too long to try and strike me. I force one hand to summon water, the other fire, and combine the two to form a cloud of steam that envelops the Daimyo. Whilst he is blind I rush in and sweep my leg underneath his, causing him to crash to the ground. I clear the air to reveal a rather worn out and bedraggled looking Daimyo panting on the floor.

The atmosphere is tense when people consider the situation, their ruler crashed out on the ground with his opponent standing before them. The Daimyo coughs before standing, raising the war staff towards me. I gulp.

"The Shinobi has defeated me!" he announces, and still people do not know how to react. He smiles though and cheers, prompting others to do so. I can't help smiling, and I see pride flood Usagi's face when I catch his eye. The Daimyo steps towards me:

"Well done my dear. Shall we get some breakfast?"

The 'few days' turns into a week, with several challenges every day. I am used as a training tool for the samurai to learn how to dodge and defend against magic, the ones that laughed at me before now regarding me with a sense of fear and, thankfully, respect. The Daimyo's son watches quite a lot, begging me to make water dance in the air after every session. He reminds me a lot of Mikey. Usagi continues sparing with me, encouraging me to combine my swordsmanship and magic into one force. It doesn't go quite according to plan when I set the training mat on fire but I at least control it and put it out pretty quickly.

I am given a bag to keep my new scrolls in and Usagi soon sets up the ritual for the portal to take me home while Master Paku gives me one final check up.

"Well, everything seems to be in order. Your wounds are now just scars and your muscle strength has been completely rehabilitated. I believe it is time for you to go home, young one."

"Thank you Master Paku." I bow to both him and Mariko. "Thank you to you both."

Mariko takes me by surprise by hugging me. "Just stay safe, okay. I don't ever want to see you in that state again."

I hug her back, appreciating her concern. I turn and bow to the Daimyo.

"And thank you for everything, my Lord."

"You are welcome, Venus. I know you will do all of us proud."

I smile, noticing his watery eyed son peeking from behind him.

"Your Highness?"

He steps forward, his eyes wide.

"Do you have to go?"

I crouch down to his level, placing a hand on his shoulder.

"I'm afraid so. My family need me, and I belong back in my world. And besides, you'll be beginning your own training soon."

"I will?" He asks, sniffing slightly.

"Yup. Your father and Usagi have promised to teach you in the way of the samurai. But you'll need to be strong and patient, and most importantly brave. Can you do that?"

The child nods before standing up straight and bowing. I bow back, smiling. For some reason I feel proud of him.

"Venus, it's ready."

I turn to see Usagi waiting beside the portal. It is time to go.

"Usagi, I don't know what to say. If it weren't for you, I don't think I would have got through all this."

"You don't need to say anything. You are my friend, and I made a promise a long time ago to always try and help your family."

I get the feeling there is something I don't know, but I shake it off, wanting to leave in good spirits. We bow to each other and I turn to face the portal. On the other side is my home, my family. Everything I have missed these past weeks. I step through, eager to return to what I know…

I cannot move. The sight before me rocks me to my core. The rubble, the debris. The destruction. I turn around to call for help, only to find the portal gone. I am alone in what was my home. Now it is a wasteland.

I don't bother crying out. I know no one will answer. No one is here, only me, and I realise I can't even call anyone as I left had my shell-cell with the guys.

I run towards my room, climbing a mountain of pipes and concrete due to the now destroyed stairs. There is a thin ledge where the upper walkway used to be, and I have to concentrate so I don't fall off it. I carefully shift my feet towards my room, the door swinging half-heartedly on its hinges. I pull it open, testing the light and remaining unsurprised when it doesn't work. I cause a small flame to dapple in my hand, lighting up the room. It's empty. Everything is gone: my scrolls, my photos and pictures, even my bed and bedding. It's like my room has been stripped completely. I can't look at it anymore. I edge outwards, shifting to the left in order to peer into Donatello's room. His too is empty, and I can't get to the others, so I climb back down with no idea on what to do next. I begin pacing up down. If I had my shell-cell I could call one of them or use the tracking device Donny created. I guess that they are still in the sewers, unless the place was destroyed whilst we were up in Northampton and they still don't know. I decide the best thing to do is to go to April's and see if she's there. She'll know what happened, surely?

I'm surprised that I still know my way around the sewers; know which manhole cover opens right next to April's antique shop. It's dark topside, the smell of the city making my nose itch after a few months if unpolluted air. The lights in the antique shop are off but there is a yellow glow coming from April's apartment above it. Cautiously I climb the fire-escape, not wanting to startle her. I see her packing up what look like food parcels: Bread, milk, butter, soup. That's when I notice the frozen pizzas.

"AHHH!"

I don't realise that it is April screaming until I see her rushing towards the window holding one of Casey's baseball bats. She launches the window open and threatens me with the 'weapon'.

"April! April it's me, Venus!" I whisper, not wanting to draw attention to the scene having noticed a few lights suddenly flick on in other apartments.

"Venus?"

April sounds confused, frowning, before she drops the bat and drags me inside through the window, almost crushing my neck.

"Oh my god, Venus! What are you doing here? How did you get here?"

"Usagi created a portal for me to get home," I choke, prompting April to release me. "It led back to the lair which is, well, not really the lair anymore, so I decided to see if you were home so that you could take me to the guys and, well…"

"Venus?"

My voice trails off, the shock of the lair's destruction finally sinking in.

"April, what happened?"

"I'll let the guys tell you. Oh, they're going to be so happy to see you! They haven't been in their new place long so I decided to fix them up some essentials to tie them over until they're really settled in. Donny managed to fix up a fridge-freezer from the junkyard today-"

"Hence the pizza." I offer.

"Well of course. Mikey without pizza for more than two days is a terrifying sight indeed. I'm nearly done so if you grab a box, I'll take you down there. Casey's helping them shift some stuff about already."

I nod, carrying a box downstairs and into April's tiny car. The drive doesn't take too long, the new lair now being in an old abandoned pumping station on the edge of central park.

"The place is much bigger. There's even space for a study so you'll at least have a place to read your scrolls in peace."

I simply nod, still slightly numb. I suddenly find myself nervous at re-uniting with my family. Will they think me weak for taking so long to come home? Will they judge me? I don't have much time to dwell on these thoughts as April pulls into a garage down a steep slope. We take out the boxes and head down a set of stairs, coming to a sign reading 'pumping station'. I notice that Donny has already implemented a security system, a keypad appearing when April twists a certain pipe. She presses some digits and the door swings open half-covered in bricks.

"The 'invisible door' will be completed tomorrow," April chuckles, and I follow her inside, our footsteps echoing.

"April!"

Mikey's voice immediately makes me smile as he sprints towards us, not noticing me.

"Did you bring us pizza?"

"Yes Mikey, I brought you pizza."

"Eh, don't be such a dork. Say 'thank you' before you go rifling through the food."

The familiar sound of Raphael smacking his brother round the head fills the air.

"Could you put it in the kitchen April, I just the oven working so we can actually eat a decent meal tonight."

"Don, you call pizza a decent meal?"

"Yes Casey. Well, compared to Chinese take-out at least."

Don and Casey's bickering hasn't changed.

"Would you two stop? I'll lay the table, Mikey, you deal with the food. Donny, supervise in case the oven blows up. Raph and Casey can finish moving the couch."

The sound of our leader's voice is comforting. Not the cold, unattached tone that I had last heard him use.

"Thank you, Miss O'Neil, for doing this."

Sensei's voice makes me freeze. Has no one noticed me behind April?

"Don't worry about it Master Splinter. And I brought you much more than supplies…"

April takes a side step, revealing me holding a box of cereal and Chinese tea. No one says anything at first. They merely stare, as if they'd never seen me before. But there is always one in the family you can count on for never being able to stay still for long.

"VENUS!"

A flash of orange runs towards me, hugging me so tight that I drop the box. But I don't care. I hug Mikey back just as tight, smiling when his brothers join in.

"Careful my sons. We do not want to hurt Venus after she has only just recovered."

They reluctantly let go, Raph being the last, his face stern.

"You have recovered, haven't you?" He asks, his voice severe.

"Master Paku gave me the all clear earlier today. I woke up about four weeks ago and have been training non-stop."

"I am proud of your determination, Venus." Splinter offered, stepping forward and placing a hand on my shoulder. "You have shown strength in your quick recovery. Your father would be proud too."

I smile and bow to my sensei, grateful for his words. I am led to the couch, where I am asked to tell my story. My family sit before in wonder until I ask to hear what has happened to the lair. Their faces darken, but they tell me, taking turns relaying each person's experience. Klunk jumps on my lap and settles down. They tell me of Karai and of Leonardo's defeat of her. I do not ask why Leonardo had gone to see the Ancient One. I know he will tell me in time. It is only when the smell of burning pizza fills the air that we stop, rushing to the oven only to find a very charred pizza. We let Mikey eat whatever he can while the rest of us make do with toast. When it comes to bedtime, Leo and Don then show me to my new room on the upper level, where I find my bed, bedding, scrolls and photos.

"We went back the other day to salvage anything we could. Only the place itself got really damaged, although Mikey caused another collapse when leaving his old room." Donny explains.

I nod in response, failing to stifle a yawn. The pair chuckle and leave me to sleep.

I'll admit that the Daimyo's palace was filled with luxury: the beds were cosy, the covers thick and warm. And my view from my room was incomparable. But now lying here, in my own bed, in my own home, under the same roof as my family, I realise that now I am truly at peace. Now, I am truly healed.