The Heart Of Tengu is a mystical artifact in the 2003 TV series. Although it can protect its keeper from attack, its main ability was enabling whoever possessed it to control the five elemental mystics who served the Demon Shredder. It is assumed that this artifact was created by the Ninja Tribunal at some point before or after their victory over the Demon Shredder as a way to keep these powerful Mystics in check as their master was. Their symbol can be seen on the artifact in the episode Good Genes, Part 2.
The Utrom Shredder somehow came into possession of the Heart and used it to control the mystics. Although it appeared that the mystics were loyal to Ch'rell, attacking the Turtles in Return to New York, Part 2, it was later revealed (in Fathers and Sons) that they tolerated their allegiance to the alien Shredder due to his respecting their power, they were ultimately dissatisfied; thus, they hatched a plot to resurrect their master by using an invisible bone demon to gather his helmet, gauntlet and body from the Ninja Tribunal. The demon was defeated by Master Splinter and the Ancient One, it is unknown if the mystics made any further attempts to free themselves, but their mistreatment at the hands of Karai (according to them, Shredder treated them fairly at least) reignited their desire to return to their true master.
To this end, the mystics tricked the E.P.F. into stealing the artifact and destroying it, finally freeing them from the Foot's control. They then set out to revive their demon lord.