Letters From the Void

A little early, but that's how I roll.
 
Let's see, what happened this week?  I posted Kako 44, but unfortunately I haven't been able to get myself to focus enough to work on 45...I should get on that...
 
Also, apparently the beta test for Kingdom Hearts X [chi] was held recently, so it'll probably be out in Japan soon.  Since it's a social game it might not actually make it to America, but meh.  There's at least one new Keyblade, though, so that's cool.
 
It occured to me that the new Technic Coliseum has been around for over a month now, and it already has more pages than the original had in a year.  Pretty cool.  The second tournament starts on Monday, and like before I'll make a little blog post about what items and upgrades will become available once the tournament is over.  The Kanohi Kadin is finally going to be offered, plus a new batch of Rahkshi Staffs, Thornax Launchers, Bohrok Shields, and more!  Find out more on Monday!

To save space in the topic, I'm moving these here.
 
Bionicle:
(Toa)
-Tahu Nuva
Strength: start 12, current 18
Agility: start 12, current 17
Toughness: start 13, current 17
Mind: start 11, current 19
Powers and Items: Toa of Fire, Magma Swords, Hero Cuffs (shared), Acid Shield (shared), Thornax Launcher (shared), Thornax (5/5 uses) (shared), Brain Visor (shared)
Sponsor: Flaredrick
Class B

 
-Pohatu
Strength: start 13, current 18
Agility: start 10, current 20
Toughness: start 14, current 14
Mind: start 11, current 11
Powers and Items: Toa of Stone, Kanohi Ruru, Kanohi Miru
Sponsor: Loganto The Bo-Matoran
Class B

 
-Onua
Strength: start 12, current 27
Agility: start 11, current 32
Toughness: start 12, current 21
Mind: start 13, current 30
Powers and Items: Toa of Earth, claws, Kanohi Ruru, Kanohi Mahiki, Kanohi Kadin
Sponsor: Dual Matrix
Class F 

-Kopaka Nuva Tournaments 2 and 3-E Champion!
Strength: start 12, current 21
Agility: start 11, current 21
Toughness: start 12, current 27
Mind: start 13, current 43
Powers and Items: Toa of Ice, Ice Blades, shield, Skakdi Spine (Impact) (shared), Staff of Silence (recharging 1/2) (shared), Axonn's Axe (shared)
Sponsor: Soldier 1st class Voxumo
Class F

 
-Lewa
Strength: start 12, current 17
Agility: start 13, current 18
Toughness: start 12, current 17
Mind: start 11, current 16
Powers and Items: Toa of Air, Air Axe, Kanohi Mahiki, Kanohi Kakama
Sponsor: -Toa Lhikevikk-
Class B
 
-Gali Hordika
Strength: start 11, current 17
Agility: start 13, current 17
Toughness: start 11, current 17
Mind: start 13, current 13
Powers and Items: Toa of Water, hooks, blade-like fins on wrists and ankles, Kanohi Suletu, Kanohi Kadin, Staff of Illusion (shared), Staff of Density Control (shared), Subzero Spear
Sponsor: Keizah
Class B

 
-Lhikan
Strength: start 11, current 11
Agility: start 12, current 12
Toughness: start 12, current 12
Mind: start 13, current 13
Powers and Items: Toa of Fire, Fire Greatswords
Sponsor:
Class A
 
-Nidhiki
Strength: start 10, current 10
Agility: start 14, current 14
Toughness: start 11, current 11
Mind: start 13, current 13
Powers and Items: Toa of Air, Air Scythe, Staff of Sleep (shared), Kanohi Kadin
Sponsor: Bulik
Class A

 
-Hewkii
Strength: start 14, current 14
Agility: start 9, current 9
Toughness: start 15, current 15
Mind: start 10, current 10
Powers and Items: Toa of Stone, Laser Axe, Electric Chain
Sponsor: 
Class A
 
-Helryx
Strength: start 12, current 12
Agility: start 11, current 11
Toughness: start 12, current 12
Mind: start 13, current 13
Powers and Items: Toa of Water, mace, shield
Sponsor:
Class A
 
-Matoro Tournament 3-A Champion!
Strength: start 10, current 13
Agility: start 11, current 14
Toughness: start 11, current 12
Mind: start 16, current 19
Powers and Items: Toa of Ice, Ice Sword, Komau (shared), Kadin (shared), Seismic Spear (shared), Acid Shield (shared), Exo-Toa (shared)
Sponsor: ToaKapura1234
Class A
 
 -Nuju
Strength: start 10, current 11
Agility: start 12, current 15
Toughness: start 9, current 15
Mind: start 17, current 20
Powers and Items: Crystal Spikes, Toa of Ice, Komau (shared), Kadin (shared), Seismic Spear (shared), Acid Shield (shared), Exo-Toa (shared)
Sponsor: ToaKapura1234
Class B
 
 -Lesovikk
Strength: start 11, current 11
Agility: start 12, current 12
Toughness: start 14, current 14
Mind: start 11. current 11
Powers and Items: Air Sword
Sponsor:
Class A
 
-Jovan
Strength: start 10, current 10
Agility: start 15, current 15
Toughness: start 10, current 10
Mind: start 13, current 18
Powers and Items: Magnetic Bolt Launcher, Exo-Toa (shared)
Sponsor: Elrond of Rivendell
Class A
 
-Chiara
Strength: start 10, current 16
Agility: start 14, current 14
Toughness: start 10, current 15
Mind: start 14, current 15
Powers and Items: Toa of Lightning
Sponsor: Pulsate
Class B

 
(Glatorian) 
-Ackar
Strength: start 13, current 13
Agility: start 11, current 11
Toughness: start 12, current 12
Mind: start 12, current 12
Powers and Items: Flame Sword
Sponsor:
Class A
 
-Skrall
Strength: start 12, current 17
Agility: start 12, current 17
Toughness: start 15, current 20
Mind: start 9, current 9
Powers and Items: Saw Blade Shield, Tribal Blade, Toa-level power over Stone
Sponsor: SonicBOOM XS
Class B
 
-Malum Hordika
Strength: start 14, current 20
Agility: start 11, current 11
Toughness: start 14, current 14
Mind: start 9, current 10
Powers and Items: Flame Claws, heat-sensitive organs
Sponsor: Shadowhawk
Class A
 
-Master Strakk
Strength: start 13, current 14
Agility: start 12, current 14
Toughness: start 13, current 15
Mind: start 10, current 12
Powers and Items: Toa-level power over Ice, Ice Cleaver, Thornax Launcher, Thornax (4/5 uses), Thornax Cloak
Sponsor: Enax
Class A
 
-Master Gresh
Strength: start 12, current 16
Agility: start 12, current 16
Toughness: start 13, current 17
Mind: start 11, current 15
Powers and Items: Shield-Blades of Lono, Toa-level power over Plant Life, Staff of Hunger (shared), Thornax Launcher (shared), Thornax (5/5 uses) (shared)
Sponsor: Progenitus Worldsoul
Class A
 
-Tarix
Strength: start 12, current 14
Agility: start 13, current 10
Toughness: start 12, current 14
Mind: start 11, current 10
Powers and Items: Water Blades
Sponsor:
Class A
 
-Kiina
Strength: start 12, current 15
Agility: start 13, current 16
Toughness: start 12, current 15
Mind: start 11, current 14
Powers and Items: Aquatic Slicer, Toa-level power over Water, Skakdi Spine (Heat) (shared), Lightning Shield (shared)
Sponsor: Wraith
Class B

 
-Mata Nui
Strength: start 11, current 13
Agility: start 12, current 13
Toughness: start 11, current 13
Mind: start 14, current 15
Powers and Items: Scarab Shield, MGR Sword, Toa-level power over Light, Hero Cuffs (shared), Acid Shield (shared), Thornax Launcher (shared), Thornax (5/5 uses) (shared), Brain Visor (shared)
Sponsor: Flaredrick
Class A

 
Slizers:
-Torch of the Heavens (Fire Slizer) Tournament 3-B Champion!
Strength: start 12, current 18
Agility: start 10, current 14
Toughness: start 14, current 18
Mind: start 12, current 21
Powers and Items: Can shoot flames from his Inferno Gauntlet, Toa-level power over Fire, expert in disk-throwing, Disk (4/20 uses), Staff of Hunger (shared), Thornax Launcher (shared), Thornax (5/5 uses) (shared)
Sponsor: Progenitus Worldsoul
Class B
 
-Scuba (Sub Slizer)
Strength: start 11, current 11
Agility: start 13, current 13
Toughness: start 12, current 12
Mind: start 12, current 12
Powers and Items: Expert in disk-throwing, Retiarius, Toa-level power over Water, Disk (20/20 uses)
Sponsor: Lhikevikk
Class A
 
-Ski (Ice Slizer)
Strength: start 13, current 13
Agility: start 13, current 13
Toughness: start 11, current 11
Mind: start 11, current 11
Powers and Items: Expert in disk-throwing, can shoot energy blasts from Ski Pole
Sponsor:
Class A
 
-Turbo (City Slizer)
Strength: start 12, current 12
Agility: start 14, current 14
Toughness: start 11, current 11
Mind: start 11, current 11
Powers and Items: Expert in disk-throwing
Sponsor:
Class A
 
-Jet (Judge Slizer)
Strength: start 11, current 11
Agility: start 13, current 16
Toughness: start 11, current 11
Mind: start 13, current 16
Powers and Items: Expert in disk-throwing, can fly, can shoot energy beams from hands, disks cause target to black out for a brief moment, DIsk (19/20 uses), Exo-Toa, Staff of Poison
Sponsor: Tornado
Class A
 
-Amazon (Jungle Slizer)
Strength: start 13, current 16
Agility: start 12, current 20
Toughness: start 12, current 15
Mind: start 11, current 13
Powers and Items: Expert in disk-throwing, disks cause plants to attack target, Nepenthes (machete), Toa-level power over Plant Life, Disk (19/20 uses)
Sponsor: Adonael
Class B
 
-Granite (Mountain Slizer)
Strength: start 13, current 16
Agility: start 11, current 19
Toughness: start 14, current 24
Mind: start 10, current 13
Powers and Items: Expert in disk throwing, can shoot plasma bolts, can generate plasma shield, Reforged pickaxes/energy crossbows, Toa-level power over Stone, Disk (16/20 uses), Staff of Sleep (shared), Flying Disk
Sponsor: Bulik
Class C

 
-Electro Spectrum (Energy Slizer) Tournament 1 and 3-C Champion!
Strength: start 11, current 16
Agility: start 13, current 32
Toughness: start 11, current 22
Mind: start 13, current 30
Powers and Items: Expert in disk throwing, Caelum (stinger), Toa-level power over Lightning, can shoot electric bursts from wings without using Elemental energy, can fly, Disk (8/20 uses), Staff of Illusion (shared), Staff of Density Control (shared), Subzero Spear
Sponsor: Keizah the Kaleidoscope
Class E

 
-Millennium Corona Hordika (Millennium Slizer) Tournament 3-D Champion!
Strength: start 12, current 23
Agility: start 8, current 24
Toughness: start 14, current 22
Mind: start 14, current 29
Powers and Items: Expert in disk-throwing, can shoot energy beams, Solar Axe, Toa-level power over Light, retractable claws, Disk (10/20 uses), Power Fuel, Vahki Staff (shared), Lava Stone, Staff of Silence (shared) (recharging 0/2), Staff of Weather Control (shared), Skakdi Spine (Heat) (shared), Plasma Shooter (shared), Staff of Molecular Disruption (shared), Zamor Sphere (shared) (recharged), Staff of Sonics (shared)
Sponsor: Canis Lupus
Class E

 
- Cosmic Blaster (Slizer)
Strength: start 13, current 14
Agility: start 7, current 8
Toughness: start 14, current 15
Mind: start 14, current 15
Powers and Items: Expert in disk throwing, has a blast shield that can fire energy blasts, Thornax Launcher (shared), Thornax (2/5 uses) (shared), Staff of Poison (shared), Skakdi Spine (Impact) (shared)
Sponsor: Phantom Terror
Class A


-Flare (Slizer)
Strength: start 11, current 11
Agility: start 14, current 19
Toughness: start 11, current 16
Mind: start 12, current 19
Powers and Items: Expert in disk throwing, can fly, Scorched Spear, Toa-level power over Fire
Sponsor: Pulsate
Class B

 
-Luna (Space Slizer)
Strength: start 9, current 9
Agility: start 18, current 18
Toughness: start 10, current 10
Mind: start 11, current 11
Powers and Items: Crescent Blade, able to shoot star-shaped energy blasts
Sponsor: 
Class A
 
RoboRiders:
-Lava
Strength: start 12, current 16
Agility: start 12, current 20
Toughness: start 12, current 16
Mind: start 12, current 20
Powers and Items: Can use Wheel Talismans, Volcanic Edges, Toa-level power over Fire, Wheel Talisman (5/20 uses), Handling Patch, CreateRoads.EXE, Skakdi Spine (Heat) (shared), Lightning Shield (shared)
Sponsor: Phoenixian Wraith
Class C

 
-Onyx
Strength: start 12, current 12
Agility: start 12, current 12
Toughness: start 13, current 13
Mind: start 11, current 11
Powers and Items: Can use Wheel Talismans, lasers
Sponsor:
Class A
 
-Power
Strength: start 12, current 12
Agility: start 12, current 12
Toughness: start 11, current 11
Mind: start 13, current 13
Powers and Items: Can use Wheel Talismans, Plasma Cannons
Sponsor: Wraith
Class A

-Frost
Strength: start 11, current 11
Agility: start 12, current 12
Toughness: start 13, current 13
Mind: start 12, current 12
Powers and Items: Can use Wheel Talismans, ice lances
Sponsor:
Class A
 
-Swamp OS
Strength: start 12, current 18
Agility: start 12, current 13
Toughness: start 13, current 16
Mind: start 11, current 12
Powers: Can use Wheel Talismans, machetes
Sponsor: Onua39
Class A
 
-Dust
Strength: start 14, current 14
Agility: start 12, current 12
Toughness: start 14, current 14
Mind: start 8, current 8
Powers: Can use Wheel Talismans, spears
Sponsor:
Class A
 
-Boss RoboRider
Strength: start 13, current 13
Agility: start 10, current 10
Toughness: start 13, current 13
Mind: start 12, current 12
Powers and Items: Can use Wheel Talismans, energy cannons, Firewall
Sponsor: maxthethrax
Class A
 
-Virus Rider
Strength: start 10, current 18
Agility: start 12, current 17
Toughness: start 10, current 18
Mind: start 16, current 21
Powers and Items: Can use Wheel Talismans, extendable clawed tendrils, can shoot energy blasts and shockwaves, CreateRoads.EXE, Gravi-Spear Launcher, Toa-level power over Gravity, Staff of Weather Control (shared), Skakdi Spine (Heat) (shared), Vahki Staff (shared), Staff of Silence (shared) (recharging 0/2), Plasma Shooter (Shared), Staff of Molecular Disruption (shared), Zamor Sphere (shared) (recharged), Staff of Sonics (shared)
Sponsor: Canis
Class C

 
-Gray
Strength: start 9, current 9
Agility: start 12, current 12
Toughness: start 9, current 9
Mind: start 18, current 18
Powers and Items: Buzzsaws that can shoot cutting energy blasts
Sponsor: 
Class A
 
Hero Factory:
-Preston Stormer
Strength: start 13, current 13
Agility: start 10, current 10
Toughness: start 13, current 13
Mind: start 12, current 22
Powers and Items: Toa-level power over Ice, Doomsday Warhammer
Sponsor: Dual Matrix
Class A
 
-Jimi Stringer
Strength: start 10, current 10
Agility: start 13, current 13
Toughness: start 11, current 11
Mind: start 14, current 14
Powers and Items: Sonic Boom Weapon
Sponsor:
Class A
 
-Duncan Bulk
Strength: start 15, current 15
Agility: start 9, current 9
Toughness: start 15, current 15
Mind: start 9, current 9
Powers and Items: Sphere Shooter, Wing Boosters, Missile Launcher, Plasma Shooter
Sponsor: Strack
Class A
 
-William Furno 2.0
Strength: start 12, current 16
Agility: start 12, current 17
Toughness: start 12, current 17
Mind: start 12, current 16
Powers and Items: Infernal Blade, Toa-level power over Fire, Wing Boosters
Sponsor: ninjamonkey3000
Class B
 
-Natalie Breez 2.0
Strength: start 10, current 13
Agility: start 14, current 20
Toughness: start 10, current 14
Mind: start 14, current 19
Powers and Items: Zephyrangs, Toa-level Air powers, Titan Gauntlets, Bowstaff and Buzzsaw Shield, Feral Circuit
Sponsor: Zakar0%
Class B
 
-Mark Surge 2.0
Strength: start 12, current 13
Agility: start 15, current 16
Toughness: start 9, current 10
Mind: start 12, current 13
Powers and Items: Master Bolt, Electricity Shooter/Blade, Toa-level power over Lightning
Sponsor: Hurricane iBrow
Class A
 
-Nathan Evo 2.0
Strength: start 14, current 15
Agility: start 10, current 12
Toughness: start 14, current 15
Mind: start 10, current 14
Powers and Items: Can shoot energy bolts, Toa-level power over Ice, bladed tonfa that combine into a shield, Tank Arm, Zephyr Boosters, Exo-Toa (shared)
Sponsor: Elrond
Class A
 
-Julius Nex
Strength: start 11, current 13
Agility: start 11, current 14
Toughness: start 11, current 14
Mind: start 15, current 15
Powers and Items: MTIS with pincers and saws, energy bolts, Thornax Launcher (shared), Thornax (2/5 uses) (shared), Staff of Poison (shared), Skakdi Spine (Impact) (shared), Laser Cutter, Wing Boosters
Sponsor: Phantom Terror
Class A

 
-Daniel Rocka
Strength: start 13, current 13
Agility: start 12, current 22
Toughness: start 14, current 14
Mind: start 9, current 14
Powers and Items: Fights with a claw, shoots energy bolts, Staff of Accuracy
Sponsor: Commander CeeCee
Class B
 
-Von Nebula
Strength: start 7, current 7
Agility: start 17, current 22
Toughness: start 7, current 17
Mind: start 17, current 27
Powers and Items: Toa-level power over Gravity, Jinisuma, Skakdi Spine (Impact) (shared), Staff of Silence (recharging 1/2) (shared), Axonn's Axe (shared)
Sponsor: Vox
Class C

 
-Toxic Reapa
Strength: start 11, current 11
Agility: start 14, current 14
Toughness: start 11, current 11
Mind: start 12, current 12
Powers and Items: Toxic Jets
Sponsor:
Class A
 
-Vapor
Strength: start 11, current 11
Agility: start 12, current 12
Toughness: start 11, current 11
Mind: start 14, current 14
Powers and Items: Shoots bullets of corrosive mist
Sponsor:
Class A

I didn’t really have anything planned, so I figured I’d just ramble in this entry.  People still ramble in blog entries, right?
 
Well, I did enter the new FFFC with “Woe Betide.”  It features the Av-Matoran who built Toa Canisters in Karzahni, since that seemed like the best idea I had after a bit of brainstorming.  Since multiple entries can be made, I want to try and come up with another story, and while I do have a few ideas, I’m not sure if they’re relevant or if I can get a good story out of them.  Speaking of stories, I’ve made progress on the new chapter of Kako.  It’s not quite done yet, but I’m hoping to get it up soon.  I also did a little work on VRHS and Order Rebuilt, but nothing substantial.
 
As I was going through my bin of Bionicle pieces to reassemble my sets, I realize that I’ve lost and broken more pieces than I had formerly thought.  My poor Panrahk is running around without a head, and Guurahk and Lerahk are in worse shape than that.  Not to mention I haven’t seen Onua Nuva’s Quake Breakers since before I joined BZP…I should purchase some replacements online.  Of course, that’s not really a “responsible” use of money, and I was already irresponsible enough to pre-order Pokémon Y when it doesn’t come out until October…
 
Oh, that reminds me, they finally released the password to unlock Meloetta’s data in the non-Japanese versions Pokedex 3D Pro!  Really hoping that they provide a downloadable update to that for the Gen VI games—I really like this Pokedex and I want to continue using it.  It sounds pretty simple, so here’s hoping.  Speaking of Gen VI, when do we get more news?  I get greedy with new video game info, eheheh…moving on.  I guess they’ve also been talking a lot about Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII, or as I like to call it, XIII-3.  Kind of on the fence on if I want to buy it, but I do think it’s interesting they’re bringing back Inns…and introducing HP-restoring meals such as “Gysahl Salad”.  For some reason that name entertains me far more than it should.  They also announced an iOS and Android port of Final Fantasy V, one of my favorites in the series.  I’m very glad it’ll be getting more exposure, but the “updated” graphics look a little…odd to me.  Ah well—don’t have a smartphone, so I guess it doesn’t really apply to me, huh?  I just want Final Fantasy V to be recognized for its brilliance.  It’s so often overlooked…
 
Hm…well, if anyone’s interested I finally started watching Doctor Who on Netflix a while ago.  It’s slow progress since my sister insists I not watch it without her, and we have some difficulty finding time when we’re not busy and are able to secure use of the TV.  Still, it’s actually less awkward to argue with and ask questions to the television when there’s someone else there.  To distract myself from my desire to marathon the whole thing on my own, I think I’m going to try watching some new anime soon.  A friend of mine has been talking about Steins;Gate for a while, so I think I’ll start with that.  Any other suggestions are welcome.  And on the topic of shows, Monday’s new episode of Adventure Time will probably reduce me to a blubbering puddle of tears.  Especially since, right before it, they’re re-airing the last episode that reduced me to a blubbering puddle of tears.  Can’t wait for that.  Also kinda wondering when the next Book of Legend of Korra is going to come out, but I’m trying to be patient.  By that, I mean I’m thinking about it as little as humanly possible.  Because otherwise I wouldn’t have any patience, since what we’ve been told so far sounds pretty freaking awesome.  But I understand that good work takes time, and I have no doubt the result will be well-worth the wait.  And yes, that’s also how I feel about Sherlock Series 3.  Which I’m also looking forward to.
 
Well that went longer than I expected.  Maybe it’s too long…

A while back I mentioned an idea I had involving Matoran using mecha inspired by Vahki.  I decided to start writing it, and since feedback is essential I wanted to share part of what I've got so far.  It's sort of long (over 2,000 words), but I'd be very appreciative if you'd share your thoughts!
 
Order Rebuilt Preview
 
Defilak entered the room with the pilots in tow.  The lab had gleaming chrome walls and floors, with blinking screens and large contraptions whose purposes the newcomers could only guess at.  All kinds of Matoran and Agori rushed from place to place, creating a blur of motion and a cacophonous atmosphere.  Some of the engineers stopped to salute Defilak before hurrying on their way.
 
For all the marvels within the massive laboratory, what drew the most attention was the glass wall on the far side.  This window provided a view into a massive hangar inhabited by what could only be the Exo-Vahki the Matoran had been promised.  The machines were much larger than expected, each about the height of a Tahtorak.  Every one bore the familiar head of a Vahki, but that was the sole uniformity.
 
“Welcome to the hush-hidden Vahki Lab,” Defilak announced proudly.  “Allow me to introduce you.”
 
He began to point to the robots one-by-one, assigning a Matoran to each.
 
“Kapura, you’ll have the Exo-Nuurakh.  It was fortified to withstand any strike-hit you can imagine!”
 
This was in no way a boast.  The red Exo-Vahki had more armor than the other five combined, giving it a stout, bulbous appearance.  Its three-fingered hands held no equipment—its very body was a shield.
 
“Hafu, you get the Exo-Zadakh.  It may not reach the speed of bright-light, but it can cross-travel the entire planet in minutes.”
 
This suit looked the most like the original Vahki, with the only noticeable difference in design being slimmer shoulders to make the unit more streamlined.  It was lean and lightly armored, and seemed to crave freedom to run.
 
“Onepu will pilot-ride the Exo-Rorzakh.  As team technician, it’ll be up to you to repair-save the others in battle.”
 
Exo-Rorzakh’s armor was not as thick as Nuurakh’s nor as thin as Zadakh’s.  It’s right arm ended in what appeared to be a blowtorch, but this was its only remarkable feature.
 
“For Kazi, the Exo-Keerakh.  You’ll be responsible for seek-scouting enemy territory so the others will know what to prepare for.”
 
The snow-white robot had the lightest armor, even less than Zadakh.  It looked fragile, as if one hit would shatter it.  Two appropriately-sized daggers were attached to its waist.
 
“Here’s the Exo-Vorzakh!  Tamaru, this one is built for nothing but raw smash-strength, and its weapon is one-of-a-kind.  We’ll detail-talk about that later, though.”
 
While Exo-Vorzakh had notably heavy armor, its cladding could not compare to that of Nuurakh.  Resting next to it was a massive broadsword, one as wide across as an Exo-Vahki and longer than any were tall.  The blade was a dull gray with a silver, tendril-like shell reaching out from the hilt and grasping the sword down its length like a hand.
 
“And finally, the Exo-Bordakh for Macku.  This one doesn’t really have a niche-role, but it can adapt to most situations easily.  We’re also gift-granting it the Nui Staff, a very important weapon that you’ll have to use wisely.”
 
Matching its lack of specialty, the moderately-armored Exo-Bordakh lacked any striking characteristics.  The Nui Staff, also, seemed nothing special—just a large metal stick that inspired no sense of awe.
 
Turning back to the Matoran, Defilak said, “Alright, now’s the time-chance for questions.”
 
Tamaru rushed right up to the glass and pressed his mask against it, excitedly muttering to himself.  The others took some time to think over their responses, though for Onepu it did not take very long.
 
“I’m sorry, technician?” the Onu-Matoran sneered.  “You want me to be a support unit?!  I think not!”
 
“I’m still not convinced,” Kazi said.  “Besides, wouldn’t Piruk be better for scouting?  Unless that would mess up your color-coded system.”
 
“Any chance I can switch with Tamaru?” Hafu asked.
 
At mention of his name, Tamaru’s attention snapped back to his companions.  “Huh?  Oh, I’m ever-fine with that.  I just want to pilot one!”
 
Defilak sighed.  “Nobody’s switch-changing.  And you aren’t allowed to decline—I already told you!”
 
A hand grasped his shoulder.  He turned to see Berix, whose expression made him realize that his temper was beginning to show itself.
 
“How about I take it from here?” the Agori offered.  “In the meantime, Nuhrii and Balta are having an argument you can mediate.”
 
After a moment of hesitation, Defilak nodded.  “Okay.  Everyone, this is Berix—he’ll guide-help you from here.  If you’ll excuse me…”
 
When Defilak was out of sight, Berix faced the Matoran and smiled.  “Hey everyone.  So, I hear you wanna change mechs.”
 
“Mechs”? Macku silently repeated.  Is that some Agori word for robot?
 
“There has clearly been a mistake,” Onepu insisted.  “I was Captain of the Ussalry, Hero of the Makuta Wars, Right Hand to Turaga Whenua!  I am no mere battle medic!”
 
Kazi rolled his eyes.  Berix suppressed a similar urge as he explained, “Well sorry, but all assignments are final.  The Exo-Vahki power up by resonating with the dormant Elemental Energy within the pilot.  It’d take about a week to recalibrate it for a new Matoran, maybe more.”
 
“That’s silly,” Macku replied.  “Why not make its activation simpler?”
 
“Can’t do that,” Berix answered.  “Giving the system a direct connection to the pilot makes it easier for you to control them.  Your thoughts will have an influence on the Vahki’s actions, something that’ll become even more effective the more you get used to it.”
 
Hafu shrugged.  “Okay then.  Strength sounds better, but I’m sure I can work with speed.”
 
Kapura, a thoughtful look in his eye, asked, “Wait…that means only Matoran can pilot them.  With all due respect, I have to admit I’m a bit surprised the Agori leaders agreed to that.”
 
Scratching his head, Berix said, “Yeah, they, uh…took some convincing.  But we drew up a prototype that didn’t use the Elemental Resonance System, and it was too complicated for even us engineers to operate.  So many buttons and levers and pulleys and pedals…”
 
A visible shudder passed through Berix.  Tamaru, who seemed ready to explode, asked, “So…can we get in the Exo-Vahki now?”
 
“Huh?  Oh, sure,” Berix said.  “Right this way!”
 
Berix headed for a door that would lead into the hangar, with Tamaru and Hafu right behind him.  Kapura followed a bit more slowly, but the other Matoran hung back a bit.
 
“I can’t believe this,” Kazi mumbled.  “How is this supposed to solve our problems?”
 
“It will be helpful, no doubt,” Onepu argued.  “Nuparu was good at what he did, and these other engineers seem…competent.  But they made a grave mistake in squandering my talents.”
 
“We don’t have a choice,” Macku reminded them.  “This is our new assignment.  We have to go along with it.”
 
The Ga-Matoran headed off the join the others.  Onepu came a few paces behind, but Kazi hesitated a while longer.  The others waited at the door and stared at him.  With a heavy sigh, he too went to meet up with them.
 
When the door was opened, Berix led the Matoran onto a catwalk high above the floor of the chamber, extending the long way to the other side where the Exo-Vahki waited.  The platform then turned sharply and ran behind the robots, providing access to the open hatches in the back of each machine’s head.  One at a time, the Matoran stepped into their respective vehicles.
 
The cockpits were poorly lit but surprisingly spacious.  A seat with four metal clamps sat at the center, surrounded by a semi-circle of control panels displaying a multitude of screens, levers, and buttons.
 
Onepu sat down in the chair and noticed a red lever labeled START jutting out of the floor.  As soon as he pulled it, the hatch sealed shut and the clamps locked in place around his torso.  A jolt of energy rocked the Matoran’s body as the screens flared to life.  Two white levers molded for an easier grip sat directly in front of him, so he tentatively reached out and took hold of them.  The far wall lit up—it was a massive viewscreen, Onepu realized, displaying what lay directly in front of Exo-Rorzakh.
 
“Hey, don’t get a head start,” came Berix’s voice.  “The others are still booting up.”
 
Onepu looked around and spotted a speaker built into the wall.  There was motion on the viewscreen—when the shock wore off, Onepu processed what had happened.  Exo-Rorzakh had moved its head the same way he had.
 
…Well that’s definitely efficient, Onepu thought.  I won’t have to pause to operate the controls.  It should be really fluid to command…if a bit unsettling.
 
The experience was more surreal than he had expected.  Judging by how the other robots were stumbling about, the rest of the Matoran were having similar reactions.
 
“Alright, let’s get to work,” Berix announced.  Several more Exo-Vahki heads swiveled as the Matoran within located their respective speakers.  “Take the two handles right in front of you and push them forward to make the Vahki walk.”
 
Onepu gently exerted pressure on the levers.  A whirring reached his ears as the mechanisms activated—the world on the viewscreen lurched forward, and a heavy BOOM echoed as Exo-Rorzakh took its first step.  The Onu-Matoran immediately let go.  Amazingly, Rorzakh maintained its balance perfectly.
 
“Just take it easy,” Berix warned as the other Vahki started moving.  “Too much and you’ll—“
 
He stopped short as Exo-Zadakh broke into a sprint.  Berix could be heard shouting at Hafu, but it was in vain.  The brown machine slammed face-first into the hangar wall, sending a tremor throughout the lab and knocking the engineers off their feet.
 
Inside the Zadakh, Hafu shook his head.  The impact left his mech slumped against the wall, giving the cockpit a harsh tilt that would have flung him at the viewscreen if not for his restraints.
 
“Ah…sorry,” the carver sheepishly apologized.  More carefully, he pulled back on the levers.  Zadakh attempted to step backwards but ended up collapsing in a heap.
 
“It’s not that simple,” Berix grumbled.  Other angry voices could be heard in the background.  “Remember, the Vahki is connected to your thoughts.  Picture yourself getting up after a fall, and then pull back on the levers.”
 
Scowling, Hafu closed his eyes and concentrated.  He quickly played through a memory of getting back on his feet and gave a short yank on the controls.  This time Zadakh put its arms out to steady itself, and was easily able to stand tall again.  Hafu opened his eyes and surveyed his work.
 
“Huh…that wasn’t so bad.”
 
“It looked pretty bad from here,” Kazi commented over the speaker.
 
Angrily, Hafu looked over his shoulder.  It jarred him a bit when Zadakh turned to face Keerakh in compliance.  “I don’t see you doing any better, Karzahni scrap.”
 
Kazi was already feeling extremely frustrated.  Hearing Hafu’s insult was more than enough to push him over the edge.  Spotting a button labeled FIRE, he slammed it and watched to see what would happen.
 
A compartment in Keerakh’s hand opened up, and a cluster of Kanoka flew out.  Unfortunately for Kazi, Keerakh had not raised its arm first, so the disks struck the floor and released their weakening power.  Even the reduced weight of the scout unit made the metal buckle and give way, sending Exo-Keerakh falling onto its back.  Kazi reached for his Kanohi to prevent it from being dislodged in the impact.
 
Zadakh reared back as Hafu laughed.  “Well, at least we know you’ve got a knack for self-sabotage!”
 
Kazi began counting in an attempt to calm himself down.  Nuurakh shakily stepped in between him and Zadakh, Kapura demanding, “Stop this.  We’re a team now; that means we need to develop a sense of unity.”
 
Nudging just one lever, Kapura focused on Nuurakh’s right arm.  The red Vahki offered its hand to Keerakh.  Instead, Kazi instructed his mech to reach for the wall for support instead.
 
“Unity?” Kazi scoffed.  “Don’t tell me you still believe in those garbage virtues.  A lot of good they’ve done us.”
 
With an instinctive impulse from the Ko-Matoran, Exo-Keerakh moved to dust itself off.  The resulting sound of scraping metal brought an instant halt to that thought.
 
Tamaru, having eagerly set about practicing, was elated at his progress.  Through trial and error he was already discovering how to make Exo-Vorzakh leap, crouch, punch, and more.  Pulling hard on the controls, he spun the machine into a whirling kick that nearly pulverized Bordakh.
 
“Oh—ever-sorry, water-sister!” he apologized.  “Guess I’m getting rush-carried away, haha!”
 
Macku’s glare reached right through both robots to bore into Tamaru.  Setting the matter aside, she steered herself towards the window to the lab.
 
“So how long are we going to just practice walking?” asked the Ga-Matoran.
 
“Until the Exo-Vahki run out of power,” Berix answered.  “There should be a monitor to your left that’ll let you keep track.”
 
It did not take long to find the monitor in question.  A light blue silhouette of Exo-Bordakh was displayed next to a yellow meter, with a random jumble of words running along the bottom of the screen.  Just above the meter, “100%” was displayed in bright, flashing numbers.
 
“…Do we really need to spend that much time on it?” Macku asked.
 
“Yes,” Berix responded.  “So come on—quit complaining and get moving!”
 
“Remember,” Kazi mockingly said, “we don’t have a choice.” 

I decided it was about time I change my name yet again, as if my display name history isn't long enough already.  I'm just an average Pahrak, sitting in a Bohrok nest waiting to clean it all.  It's a simple life.
 
They opened a website for Kingdom Hearts X [chi], but it doesn't have much--just a link to sign up for the beta, which I imagine is Japan-exclusive.  Also Kingdom Hearts 1.5 was released, but meh.
 
Later this month they're releasing the Pikachu 3DS XL in America.  It's actually a pretty neat piece of merchandise, if you ask me.
 
Updated both Bioni-Lords websites!  Exo's Desk has a profile for Ren Vicadox, and I added in the theme songs for Zane and Phaenyx.  New Spirits are mainly Hero Factory summer sets, though I'm not content with all of them and may edit them if more information becomes available (since there wasn't as much to work off of from the episode as I hoped).  The other new Spirit is called The Collector, and has a list of attacks based off of rare Bionicle collectibles.
 
I've also been working on Elemental Symbols for Bioni-Lords.  Only one I'm stuck on is Psionics--currently my best idea is to just use the eye sumbol from the Pokemon TCG, but I'd like to avoid that...
 
And yes, I'll be picking the new Technic Coliseum fighters shortly.  They'll be added to the list of fighters blog post soon.

Since there's been some demand for new fighters, I decided to give in.  I'll list some potential fighters here, you guys vote for which ones you want (you each get two votes), and on Saturday I'll take the two with the highest votes and add them to the game.  On Monday the winners' names will be replaced with two new potentials, and the voting will start again.  You can also mention a fighter you want to see added to the next round of voting, but if I get a lot of requests I won't be able to fill them all.
 
Potential Fighters:
-Spark: A "mutant Slizer" with a simple design.  He carries an "energy zapper" that drains the target's energy and create a shield with it.
-Toxin: FanonRider associated with Poison.  This guy carries guns that can shoot streams of poison or acid. (Credit to Canis) (Votes: 3)
-Wave: FanonRider associated with Water who can float on water due to the special properties of her wheels.  Carries a harpoon gun. (Credit to Canis)
-Onewa: Toa Metru of Stone, former carver, future Turaga.
-Nokama: Toa Metru of Water.
-Norik: Toa Hagah of Fire.  Carries a spear and shield, but they won't have powers/Rhotuka. (Votes: 1)
-Pridak: A fierce shark-like Barraki with his own ominous soundtrack. (Votes:3)
-Gelu: A Glatorian for the Ice Tribe. (Votes: 4)
-Bruizer: A rock monster possessed by a Brain.
-Fire Lord: Ruler of the Fire Nation Leader of the Fire Villains, cloaked in lava armor and holding something looking suspiciously similar to Furno's old weapon.
-Witch Doctor: A former professor mutated by raw Quaza energy, wielding a very spooky skull staff.
-Black Phantom: A cunning villain responsible for organizing a mass villain breakout. (Votes: 1)
 
Okay, let the voting begin!

New Technic Coliseum features suggested by players have been added!  You can now choose what arena you want to fight in, and you can also arrange 2-on-2 matches.
 
"A Machine's Philosophy" got an Honorable Mention in the FFFC!!  Sure wasn't expecting that!
 
You may have seen that Kako 43 is online.  I've begun work on 44, where we return to the mysterious castle for a new scenario, but I can't promise when it'll be up.  Though, I do have spring break this week, so maybe if I can get myself to focus...

Thanks to everyone who participated in the tournament!  It was loads of fun!
 
Now that you've had time to see what the Coliseum is like both in normal gameplay and tournament mode, I want to get some feedback.  What do you like about the game?  What could be improved?  Suggestions on anything else?
 
I want to improve the Coliseum as much as possible, so please, give me some feedback!
 
Current Suggestions:
Accepted-Specific arenas that sponsors can choose to fight in
Accepted-Adding new fighters
Accepted-2-on-2 matches
-Upgrade stats of unsponsored fighters when sponsored fighters become too powerful
Accepted-Add tournament dates to calendar

I’m pretty excited that the first Technic Coliseum tournament has started!  Not only do I get to see you guys go all-out and give you free Widgets, once the tournament is over I’ll be releasing some new items and upgrades!  I wanted to give you a sneak peak so that you can budget your tournament winnings:
 
Upgrades:
-Core Transfer isn’t quite as big a boost as Energized Protodermis, so I added a new ability bonus.  Now 2.0 Heroes have the option to limit themselves to taking just one item into battle in order to force the opponent to do the same. (And no, the price won’t increase.)
 
-Poor RoboRiders, they’ve been pretty neglected thus far.  They need an upgrade!  For 30,000 W you can give them an OS Update, transforming them into a RoboRider OS (Optimal Setting).  It boosts all stats by one and has the same training bonus ability as Core Transfer and Energized Protodermis.  In addition, when a RoboRider OS uses a Wheel Talisman, its power will be calculated based on whichever stat is highest—if you’ve focused solely on increasing your Rider’s toughness, then his Wheel will use the toughness stat to determine its effectiveness.
 
-I’m not going to leave out the Slizers!  The new Meteor Armor (30,000 W) provides the standard stat boost and training bonus, and if your new Cosmic Slizer doesn’t bring any stat-boosting items into battle, you get to boost any one stat.
 
-Since these will level the playing field, the price of Energized Protodermis will drop to 30,000 W.
 
-After some Visorak-wrangling, the Coliseum now has a cache of Hordika Venom for sponsors to purchase for 30,000 W.  Injecting your fighter with this substance will prevent them from being able to raise their mind stat, but when training for any other stat they’ll earn a bonus stat point!
 
-If your fighter gets tired of not being able to increase his/her mind or just want to be their old self again, we’ll give them Keetongu’s Cure for 20,000 W.
 
Items:
-New for Toa: Kanohi Suletu!  For 8,000 W you’ll be able to remove the opponent’s edge in mind.  When this Kanohi is used, both fighters’ mind stats will be added together and then divided in two.  The resulting value will be used as the mind stat for both fighters.
 
-Some new Slizer items: Lava Stone to greatly decrease the agility of flying opponents, Air Pearl to raise resistance to special powers, Liquid Plasma to block one attack per battle, and Electric Atoms to temporarily paralyze the foe once per battle.  Each of these costs 7,000 W.
 
-A few new things for RoboRiders too: Firewall to block one attack per battle, and CreateRoads.EXE, which allows a RoboRider to create platforms beneath their wheels and essentially drive on air.  Both cost 7,000 W.
 
-Heroes will be able to purchase Wing Boosters for 7,000 W, allowing them to fly in battle.  Also, for 15,000 W they can pick up a Feral Circuit that, when activated in battle, alters their stats to resemble a specific animal.  For those available in the 3.0 line the animal the stats will mimic should be obvious; for the other three, negotiations will be in order.
 
-We’re also adding items that any fighter can use!  The Camouflage Badge (5,000 W) will boost evasion in battle, while the Vahki Staff (7,000 W) will temporarily disorient the opponent and reduce their mind stat.  On top of that, we’re also getting our first batch of Rahkshi Staffs!  This group includes Slow, Illusion, Darkness, Density Control, Accuracy, Sleep, and Insect Control. (5,000 W for Slow, 8,000 W for Insect Control, 7,000 W for the other five.  We won’t be getting all 42 Rahkshi Staffs, but we will get a few more after the next two tournaments to bring the total to 21.  I hope you’ll look forward to it!)

I think Technic Coliseum has had a productive first week--14 players thus far!  The tournament begins on Monday.  I think I'll make a blog post then revealing the new items I'll be adding (so that people can budget their winnings accordingly), but they won't actually be added until the tournament is over.
 
Also on Monday, another Pokemon distribution starts up!  If you take any Generation V game to GameStop, you can use Mystery Gift to obtain Meloetta and complete your Unova Pokedex.
 
As for Bioni-Lords, I'm sorry it's taking so long for the next chapter.  I wrote an ending, but I'm not quite sure if I'm content with it...the main event is the Air-Lord Transferrance Ceremony, which is pretty important.  No pressure at all.