The Most Interesting Fish In The World!

“I don’t.“

It was … difficult to explain. Slash knows how much he has messed up when he mutated and even then the whole situation with the Newtralizer. It was the whole reason why Slash decided to go solo. He knew he would never be a true member of the team (or even fully part of the family) after what he has done to them.

Between the alien invasion, Shredder and his goons, the mafia, there was never any time to properly process the damage Slash has done to their bond. The weight of his past was always something the reptile will have to carry with him.

It doesn’t make it easy when there are people that (rightfully) won’t forgive you and still judge you for your past actions. Not that he can blame them of course. Regardless of whatever reason, the actions were still his.

It still sickens him how he was so willing to kill Raphael, dismissing that this was not what Raphael wanted. Once a young turtle that found him in the sewers, years of affection and then … he ruined everything by drinking the mutagen.

Perhaps what he said wasn’t the truth. Saying that he doesn’t did not sound fair to his team.

“The guilt never fades away. I won’t stop you if you want to go solo.“

Slash knows he does not have the right to judge either in that regard - but he wants to make it clear that the choice belongs to Xever.

“Forgiveness is … hard. And takes time. Sometimes, you won’t be forgiven at all. And that’s … fine.”

Leonardo would be a good example. The turtle has acknowledged that Slash changed, but suspicions were always there even as they were on better terms. He knows Mondo can’t forgive what happened between them and Slash knows the turtles will likely share that sentiment in regards to Xever after everything that happened.

“It took me a long time to get it but it’s not about what you deserve. People aren’t obligated to forgive, but that does not change the fact that people can change. Regardless of what happened in the past, it's you who need to make the effort for a change if you want it."

He pauses and gives a thoughtful glance towards the fish.

“See, one thing about never being alone is - even if you don’t have all the answers, or if you are not prepared for something, someone else is bound to be. I wouldn’t have come far without any of them.“

Maybe the one good thing that came out of this blasted alien Invasion.

“Everyone here has done bad things and hurt people. The guilt never truly leaves, but that doesn’t mean it’s too late for a fresh start and create something better. It won’t erase what happened and it will be tough, but long as you got people on your side that know you are trying to do better, it gets easier with time. Even if you can't be forgiven, or can't forgive yourself, or even if things won't be the same anymore - you can create something better."

Raphael and Leonardo are likely going to have words with him regarding that offer, but he knew what he signed up for when Mondo put the idea into his mind and they already talked it over as a team.

Slash simply holds out his large hand for a shake.

Besides - there is another reason for that offer, Mondo voiced that one before.

“The Don won’t rest until every mutant is going down. You had ties with the mafia.“

Considering they caught Tiger Claw making deals with him, it wasn’t a stretch to assume that one of Shredder‘s former goons was part of it as well.

"I feel terrible Jason was...sorry I mean Mondo was...I did a terrible thing. Part of me still thinks it would have been better if he left me there. I was ready for it you know? Still scared to die but...glad...I was able to save him from danger. I realise now I would have scarred him for life if I had died. But, in the moment I just..."

Xever had given up the first time he had ever done so in his entire life. That was something the fishman never did. It scared him so much to face death like that. He certainly had faced it before, but when fighting you at least had some control over what was happening to you. If he died in a fight then that would be his fault and his fault alone. He would have at least died in a way that was respectable in someway.

Slash offering what he offered it created a sense of deja vu. Because at his lowest point in the past Oroku Saki offered the same thing. A place to belong, a way for his skills to be used, somewhere he could become something better. Slash obviously wasn't the same but forgive Xever if he was suspicious. Last time he joined something he got burned. Of course the major difference is that Slash was giving a choice, but like back in that jail cell Xever realised he didn't truly have one.

"I'm used to being alone, I've always been alone. It is what I'm used to before Shredder dragged me into his little group. He forced me into it you know? I got caught stealing something from him. I was the first person to actually get to where the suitcase was located and that was enough to earn his attention. I became his puppet the moment I chose to join the Foot and even then I never truly belonged not really."

Xever gazed towards the huge turtle's fist taking it without a moment's notice though, there is an expression that is full of despair for a second.

"If I say no the Don will hunt be down anyway. And unlike last time I truly will be helpless without anyone to help me. So, I don't truly have a choice...if I say no...it is only a matter of time before they get me."

There was no escape, there was no chance to flee, alone Xever would fall easily to the numbers of the Mafia. He was strong, but no matter how strong someone was numbers would make up the difference. That was what the Don had, what he always had even when Xever was still human. He was doomed if he said no, so the choice was already made.

"I accept my fate I know at this point I'm cursed to be dragged into things beyond me. You might have better intentions. But, the fact of the matter is I'm at a point where logic says I can't refuse. Same as back when Saki had me against a wall. Nothing's changed...but that's ok it isn't your fault. It likely is karma coming back to bite me again."

Bad actions beget bad conclusions maybe karma did exist and it wanted his head for all the evil things he had ever done to people. He certainly did far more terrible things than most. More than anyone.

"Are you sure you want me? I mean it when I say what I've done is worse. I'm tormented people, people who did and didn't deserve it. Letting the Mafia get me is probably what I should get for being the way I've been. I've never helped anyone unless it was to help me. The the only difference...was Mondo...he was the only one..."

Because he saw himself in that kid, and his heart couldn't be cruel to him not back then but he betrayed him that was the point he knew there was nothing good left in him. But Mondo still tried to save him.

“HAH! Too slow.”

Jason teased as he reached the video game shop he wanted to rob. Something felt off, as if the boss … naaaah, that would be mean to think. Surely the fish gave it his all during their little race. Jason is the self proclaimed most awesome pro skater in the world, it’s hard to keep up with him after all.

“Had this place in mind for a while. They got some sick new video games that I haven’t had the change to play yet.”

Now all they had to do was break in, get the good stuff and get out.

Unfortunately …

"Guess, I better try harder next time. Eitherway no need to worry Jason. If there is cameras then all we need to do is take them out."

Not by throwing stuff at them but more cutting the wires. That way it created a sense of plausible deniability. Or Xever preferred the most sneaky style when he was in "job mode" as it were.

"Look for the wires the cameras might be connected to and use this to cut them. Once if you can't see any then...eh...can just throw it at the camera. Long as we're quick we'll be in and out before the cops arrive."

He reeeeally hoped it wasn’t as noticeable but Mondo is all too aware that he also isn’t the most subtle mutant around, but an embrace was not something he is ready for yet.

Sure, he was forced to work with Xever because of those jerks, it was a life threatening situation and not knowing if the fish survived it or not was tense and he did cling to him when he finally awakened but..

There is still … a lot to fix.

BUT!

He also doesn’t want to talk about it. Xever is a part of their team now. They can start fresh.

Sure, the battles became harder, nothing the gecko couldn’t handle - all while making strange noises to get into the game. Boy, it’s hard to keep quiet or sit still even playing a game but it’s fun.

They were near the final boss now Death Adder. A big muscle guy with a huge scythe maybe? Xever wasn't sure, but there were other enemies coming in from the right and left to hound the players as they were also facing the big boss. Things were extremely hard now, but Xever had been saving his magic this whole time he could blow it when the moment called for it but it had to be when they in super trouble.

"Mondo to the left, they're sneaking up on you."

Xever's character took the enemy on the right while also drawing the attention of Death Adder. He got hit a few times causing his life health to go down badly. But, it seemed he was doing all he could to allow Mondo to have as much breathing room as possible.

"Keep going! Even if I die I still have one more life left so. I will come back with full health one more time. Keep wailing on Death Adder!"

“Huh. But just think of everything you could find down there! All the creatures that scientists don’t have discovered yet, maybe sunken treasures - so much of it is still unexplored.”

If he was turned into a fish, Jason would have wasted no time to immediately explore the ocean. Who knows what’s still out there?

“Soooo … going by that example - if people are willing to pay - imagine we find something huge before a scientist does how much ya think they would be willing to pay us?”

A slight joke as he skateboards his way to one of the boats.

"You have to be one of those science nerds to know what to look for. I mean, you could still find interesting things but..."

Xever if he was honest didn't want to die too deep he was pretty sure given he was a fish he would likely draw the attention of a lot of predators. Sharks could maybe be a major source of trouble for him.

But, he could deny Jason his desire to explore. The ocean was interesting but also terrifying like with how deep and dark it could get. No thanks! As much as it might appeal to Jason Xever had sense.

"Not saying we can't...but...do you know how to swim Jason?"

“Okay.“

Jason nods as he takes the information in. He didn‘t realize that the fish was deflecting the question, the gecko merely assumed that he didn’t know why there was a fight.

It wasn’t like he was planning to seek a confrontation on the streets, that much the kid was avoiding ever since he was tossed out here. Sneaking around was how he survived out here so far. As for gathering information?

“What do we need information for?“

Woah - this guy was soooo cool, jumping around the rooftop like it was no trouble at all!

"Well, I've not really dived that deep into the water myself but we could go looking for some whales! I tended to not go too far because despite how much faster I move in the water now I do still like being on land."

Xever wouldn't mind doing that for his new understudy. The main issue came with where to go he supposed. Xever hadn't really driven boats that often but hey when did he ever let that stop from messing around and finding out as he went? Being adaptable was his main strength.

They pair soon arrived at the docks they could see some fine ships out there already by the piers ready to be snatched up.

"As for the information part, any info is good info. It is more useful that anything. If you know something before anyone else does many people are willing to pay good money to know what you know."

Jason just … stares in confusion. If the reptile had the ability to blink, the gecko would have done so but all he did was stare. It sounds weird, why not take something that you really want even if there is a risk? He has taken stuff for Mr. X many times before with certain risks involved and he always came out unharmed.

Oh well. Maybe he will figure out one day what it means.

“Something I pick up myself - Y’mean like one of these things you learn by experience?”

Jason snorts at the theatrics. Typical of Xever, that’s probably why he looks up to the fish.

"Pffft - don’t worry! I’m gnarly enough for all of this, I mean I do an awesome job, right? You should see what happened to someone that called me names once.“

Okay - so maybe there are still people and situations that scare him. But the fish did not need to know that. He stays out of harms way, sneaking around mostly. But he is acting tougher than he actually is - that’s just how it works in the streets.

"Yeah. If I remember correctly … we were having a race to the store.“

With that said, he quickly whooshes away from Xever.

Xever had liked racing in the past, maybe he could do something with that. It would be a means to make his own way instead of simply relying upon the funds of the Foot alone to support himself. It would be better in the longrun anyway since Xever wanted to keep providing for the kid he took in. The kid he basically adopted in a way kinda.

Not that Xever could say that outloud, it wasn't something he wanted others to know or think in regards to them. It could be seen as a weakness that could be exploited if he wasn't careful about it.

Jason nods in response. That much the reptile gathered as well from last night.

“You said you were stuck in a tank and some science guy gave you new legs. Because of some guys that were fighting. Do you know why they were fighting?“

Jason still has some questions, but the leopard gecko also didn’t want to pry too much in case it might be a touchy subject. Xever‘s mutation doesn’t sound like a nice story and he does not want to hit a sore spot. He loved being a gecko, unfortunately it came at the cost of losing his parents and his home. And … a harsh life on the streets until he stumbled across the fish yesterday.

Plus the thought of being confined to one space … best not to think about it. He would probably lose it if that happened to him as well.

Maybe it doesn’t matter while they were fighting. Some dudes in New York were usually angry for whatever reason.

Xever once again deflected the question turning it into a lesson he wanted the gecko take into himself. Avoid fighting, stay hidden, gather information, that leads to surviving no matter what. It was the action Xever took when he was young he likely wouldn't have gotten where he was if he never was able to keep himself hidden from the evils of the world. Rajan being the biggest and baddest of them.

Xever would keep making his way through the city jumping far and fast without any fear. It was very exciting for sure for them both.

"Say, when we do get there is there something I can do specially for ya? Something you've not ever seen before in your life!"

“Wait, real quick - “

Mondo might be getting too much into the game, so before the reptile was pulled into an embrace the gecko suddenly in his own unpredictable way jumped up, pushing some buttons faster as he put his tongue out in concentration, sometimes even jumping a little up and down.

Jeeez, it’s like all this time sitting and playing a game and suddenly a rush of energy needs to go out.

Oh, cool. Skeletons. They appeared a lot in fiction and honestly? He thinks they are cool. So when Xever whispered that, a mischievous grin was put on as he grabbed his T-phone to play the actual song.

“Jokes on you,” said the gecko playfully as a grin spreads across his face.

In an attempt to do so, he used the T-phone with his tongue while using with the other hands the controller.

His eyes drift from the screen for a moment, so Xever had his back again. Whoops.

Or maybe Xever was thinking too deeply about this. The two mutants were still playing a game eventually they would make their way through the third level which turned out to be a giant eagle in disguise. It would seem this game kept using giant animals to take the heroes towards their fated confrontation with Death Adder.

The battles were getting harder, though at this point most of the enemies were just colour swaps of the previous ones. It also ramped up the difficulty to a major degree as was often with these old games. They were getting closer to the end of everything though.

“Yeah, yeah, yeah - you’re cool, it’s fine. We’ll stay!”

His city, huh? Taking it over like some kinda wicked cartoon or comic villain? Now that sounds exciting. How could the skunk NOT be on board? It was thrilling! A moment full of chaos and conquest, a menace to society, if you please, haha!

Rules sounded lame, but whatever - Rough supposed they can kill some time with this guy and if there were others …

Maybe they could have a team again.

Cause deep down Xever cared for those under his care. He didn't want anything to happen to them. Unless it was like the Foot. But, Xever could steer them away from causing trouble to them. That would be easy for sure! Besides, it made sense to go after the rich people they were always the biggest and best targets.

"Follow me kid, and this city with be your playground just like it is mine."

Thump

Bonk

First the dog lands on his back with an audible sound. Lucky for them that this was not some kind of trust fall exercise, otherwise that would have been awkward. Afterwards, a bonk followed but both results were of little complaint to the wolf.

"Hah … crushed that fly … thanks …“

Bradford has little awareness over what’s happening, but something else seems to come randomly over his mind as Xever attempts to drag him away.

The room was more like a workshop for Xever's legs and other weapons he could use for himself. But, there was a soft mat nearby where Xever wanted to put Raz since that would be the best place to put him until he was out of this trip he was on right now.

"Come on big guy, we're almost there. You'll have a nice place to rest soon ok? I've got you..."

“You played before? I had it in here for a while, never got around to actually play it.“

Sitting in front of a computer or tv is not necessarily the gecko‘s favorite activity - unless someone else is around for company. Between the mafia and Shredder, there wasn’t much time for games anyway. Rockwell was always working on their weapons, Slash had leader stuff to do and Leatherhead used to be on guard.

Yet the guys managed to keep him entertained as well, so the gecko appreciates that. Leatherhead mostly would take a break for silly little stuff with him.

“Turtle village? That’s funny.“

Not as funny considering what was happening, but the reptile acted quick in an attempt to defeat their enemies.

It was like second nature, Xever did it without even thinking putting an arm around Mondo pulling him in a slight hug as Xever moved closer to sit beside the young reptile. Like they were still as close now as they were back then. Xever showed off some tricks one could use to help stay alive in the game longer. Like using the jump attack over and over the keep forcing the enemies to fall down over and over.

"Look see? Keep knocking them over like that you can wear them down without taking any damage yourself."

Yeah, it did take a bit of the fun out of it since it made you keep spamming the same move over and over. But, that didn't mean there weren't other strats. Xever had simply mentioned one he picked up.

Eventually they finished the second stage which turned revealing the whole village was on the back of a giant turtle it took them to the third stage which was a lot more scary as skeletons were a major foe that kept rising up over and over. Xever kept whispering "spooky scary skeletons" to Mondo to mess with him anytime a skeleton appeared on the screen. He knew what he was doing.

"Look out, got it...no need to thank me kid. I'd do anything for you."

"The docks? I’ve never been there before. Wonder what it’s like."

Between school and all the skating, it never occurred to him before nor had his parents the time to go there. His time was usually spent otherwise, mainly at the skate park or even the junkyard.

Jason nods, he remembers that conversation from yesterday so the boy was not too concerned about it.

“You said you have to go into water once in a while, otherwise your scales start itching.“

It makes sense too that the fish mutant would eventually go dry as well. Maybe it was a little concerning after all, but the impression this guy left him with? Xever knows what he is doing, so it’s fine. Even if not, he can still splash him somehow.

“Never been on a boat before either. Apparently they are expensive. But! Sounds fun! I’m game. Have you used a surfboard before? Usually that’s how people take a ride on the waves, it always looks so awesome. Bet you got some cool moves in the water that don’t require to use a board.“

Xever reached up and patted the reptile a little as they kept onwards. Xever offered a small wink too to show it didn't bother him. But, in reality he was bothered a whole lot about it. Yet, he had to put on a brave face for the kid. He had to for keeping Jason happy.

Totally not projecting anything nope not Xever Montes. He was perfectly fine! Nothing wrong with him! He could take on anything!

"Anyway, we can go to the docks steal a ship then ride it along the coastline! Doesn't that sound amazing? No one to stop us!"

Xever raised a fish up to the sky as he kept on running across the rooftops towards the docks truly selling that confident demeanor he had built up when being around Jason. Like he needed to be this.

“Force of habit,” the reptile clarified quickly. “Besides, boss sounds cool too.“

At least in this situation where Xever is giving him details for the job - if it’s business time then he is the boss. Nothing boring about it!

Still, the gecko couldn’t help and grin at the comment. Living on the streets was not something to be proud of, it was a lonely existence and quite scary. But then the fish came along and things were not as frightening anymore.

Jason snorts at the noogie, although he was not fighting it.

“I know, I know - number one rule is not to get caught. Don’t worry, geckos are great at being sneaky. Helps when you can stick to surfaces now and can hide where others can’t.“

Sneaking was a bit harder at first - he had to get his own impatience under control. That and … stop being so loud, which is what he has troubles with at times. Sometimes the energy just needs out.

Jason was not actively looking for trouble, mostly doing his job but if an opportunity presents itself … why not?

The teen stares down at the people doing their every day life. It’s … bothersome to stay so hidden just because people can’t accept mutants.

Nevermind. He shouldn’t focus on that now.

Xever keeps giving the reptile a noogie before pulling him into an embrace all dramatic like as he gestures with one hand up above. To show off the city lights like they were part of some stage show. When really Xever was simply taking advantage of the moment to show off.

"I want you to be safe too. You're my boy Jason, and I...I...care about...you...so like...don't let anything happen to you ok?"

Xever held Jason tenderly if only for a moment before going back into his spiel again like nothing happened. But the fish was keeping an arm around the reptile almost afraid to let him for a moment.

Still, they did need to find what these strange men were up to...so Xever insisted that when it time came he would be coming along. Because men in black suits always rubbed Xever the wrong way.

"So, wanna go raid the store together? That might be fun!"

“Nah. That’s not their toys - they are our toys!“

Rough fell into cackling laughter once more. Honestly, the skunk did not even realize the cops were called in his enjoyment until his ears picked up on the sirens.

“Whoops, here comes the fun police, ditching right from under their noses - woo-hoo-hoo, that’s awesome!“

Aw man - the skunk is laughing so hard and can’t stop laughing.

"So, have I proven myself enough yet kid? Stick with me and your life will be whatever you want it to be. Providing you're careful and no one catches you then the city can be you oyster like it is mine."

Not quite the same, but Xever did feel that same connection as he did to Jason. Jason was kinder for sure but that didn't mean this kid didn't need someone too. And Xever could offer that to him.

“Fish … Face … “

Bradford grumbles out in annoyance, bothered by something. Something seems to help support these noodle arms, but unfortunately neither came far as the wolf simply toppled over and if Xever didn‘t manage to move out of the way in time, the fish was likely going to make a nice pillow either way..

It’s so dizzy.

His mind is swirling and the wolf is on the ground, maybe gathering his mind.

A claw lifts to touch his forehead.

“Buzzing … too loud. Swat that damn fly … with the fridge … grrr …“

"Don't say that name...you know I hate that!"

Once or if Raz fell to the floor Xever would give the dog a bonk to the head. Not hard but just as revenge for even saying that name. He was not Fishface! He was Xever! Always would be forever and ever!

Yeah, he remembers that part of the information from yesterday. Xever did tell him that not everyone took their mutations well and that it is possible they might lash out because of it. Jason can’t say he blames them. It was great until …

Focus on Xever instead.

“It just … beats thinking you were the only one, Y’know?“

He hopes it isn’t bad to think that way, even when some did not like what they suddenly turned into. He gets it! It’s a whole change when society suddenly shuns you, but … maybe they can come to terms with eventually.

Part of him feels relief that they don’t go and grab the skateboard yet - as he mentioned yesterday, the reptile was not fond of the idea of going back to the place where he almost ended up becoming street piñata, so to start this day with something more light was probably for the better.

Then, I’ll take you to a place where you can stay with me. I can show you all the wonderful spots around the city, you will see even a cesspit like this has some wonder sights to see.

That’s what he said - the teen remembers it and honestly? Sounds more important than getting his board back.

Xever makes sure Jason is secure before then making a jump to a stairway to help get to the roof of the building there were within. They could likely go to the docks. But, would the kid enjoy that? Repiles liked being in cool places right? And being coated in water?

"We'll go to the docks for now, see what's there catch some of those sights. Maybe go for a swim? I'm not too fond of the water but I do still need it to keep myself sleek and healthy. Being a fish it kinda becomes important to stay hydrated. I certainly would die without it."

Xever wasn't trying to scare Jason with that knowledge he simply felt it was better the young one knew this since water was vital for any fish even a walking talking one such as himself. Strange thing right?