//------------------------------//
// BONUS A Father's Gift 
// Story: Shining Christmas In a Half Shell 
// by WarriorofFaith18 
//------------------------------//

It was Christmas morning at the Shroom Lodge as The Turtles, the Ninjas, Rainbooms, Spy Racers, and Team Shine had finished opening gifts with everyone happily enjoying their gifts.

"This has got to be the best Christmas EVER!" Pinkie cheered.

"This sure was a lot of fun." Tony agreed.

Leo then spoke up. "Actually, there's one last gift left for Karai."

"For me?" Karai raised a brow.

Leo then handed her a small brown box wrapped in a green ribbon and a tag labeled 'Miwa'.

"Who's it from?" Shine Boy asked.

Karai looked at the tag. "It could only be from my father if has my real name on it. Where'd you find it, Leo?"

"I was looking for some holiday stuff in Sensei's room when I found it in his closet. He must've prepared it for you before his death against Shredder."

"How come we never noticed it when we celebrated that year?" Sunset wondered.

"It was probably because it was still hard since it was our first Christmas without him." Fluttershy sniffled.

Everyone took a moment to remember Splinter as Team Shine and Spy Racers bowed in respect. After a moment of silence, April spoke.

"Better late than ever. Go ahead, Karai."

Karai nodded and untied the ribbon and opened the box and pulled out a clear ball ornament with a picture of her family inside it.

"It's beautiful!" awed Rarity.

"I'll say." Echo added.

Karai just smiled before noticing a note in the box written in Japanese and reads it to herself.

My dear daughter Miwa,
If you are reading this, then I could not be with you this holiday celebration. I just wanted to tell you how proud I am of the warrior you have become now that you know the truth. I know your mother would share the same feeling as I do. May you continue to fight alongside your friends and new family. Remember, a ninja's true strength comes not only from themselves. but from the bonds of friends and family. The same bond that helps me say my last words to you:

I love you, Miwa my child, and Merry Christmas.

Your father,
Hamato Yoshi 

Tears began to fall from Karai's eyes as she was touched then tried wiping them before turning to Leo.

"Thank you, Leo. This is the best Christmas present ever."

Leo nodded as Fluttershy hugged Karai in comfort followed by Shine Boy, Cisco, and Shini. After Karai got under control, Pinkie then spoke.

"Let's get a group photo!"

"I'll get Carmen and her group." Gamer said before he walked out to get them.

Soon, The groups all got together for the photo which was being taken by Big Mac.

"Okay, Everyone. Smile big." he told them.

After the group pic, they all took turns taking more photos with their families and friends, including some funny pics like Sonata kissing Cisco under the mistletoe. Even though they will be on their separate ways, they will always treasure this special Christmas year. Looking at her ornament, Karai smiled as she whispered to herself,

"Merry Christmas, Father."

The End