Ep 36. Leatherhead Meets the Rat King

In the season 3, episode 36 of the show Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1987), titled "Leatherhead Meets the Rat King," the titular characters are introduced to a new ally and a new villain. The episode begins with the turtles battling a group of Foot Soldiers, only to be interrupted and eventually rescued by the muscular alligator warrior called Leatherhead. Leatherhead explains to the turtles that he's searching for his missing friend, and the turtles offer to help him in his quest.

Meanwhile, in the bowels of the city, the Rat King is making plans to take over the entire underground. He sends out his minions to spread plague and destruction throughout the sewers, as a means of gaining control. One of these minions, a rat named Scratch, stumbles upon Leatherhead and the turtles and becomes enamored with the alligator's chivalry and strength. Scratch decides to accompany the group on their journey and eventually leads them straight to the Rat King's lair.

Once there, Leatherhead and the turtles must engage in a battle with the Rat King's forces. They face off against hordes of vile rats and must navigate through a series of booby traps. As they get closer to their goal, they realize that the Rat King has been using some sort of mind control to turn weaker-willed creatures into his loyal subjects.

In a tense showdown, Leatherhead is able to break free from the Rat King's control and defeat him in an epic brawl. The turtles, once again defeated the Rat King's army with the help of their new ally and soon enough, the entire underground returns to a state of relative peace.

The episode "Leatherhead Meets the Rat King" is a classic example of the type of action-packed, pulp-filled storytelling that made the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles such a beloved franchise. Fans of the series will love the fast-paced battles, the thrilling chase scenes, and the attention to detail throughout the episode. The storyline is engaging and the introduction of new characters keeps the plot fresh and exciting. Overall, it's an excellent entry in this beloved series and one that fans should definitely check out.