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[Toatapio Nuva]

I've been seeing a lot of opinions fly lately that the Chronicler's Company should have been Toa Inika instead of the ones who were. This gave me an idea and therefore I present: Different Ignition. Let's see how the Chronicler's Company would do as Toa.

 

Also, please post in the Review Topic to let me know how you like the epic!

 

 

Chapter 1 - Betrayal

 

Takanuva stared solemnly at the silver sea surrounding Metru Nui, his home city. It was hard for him to accept what he knew - that this very sea and his home would be history in a couple of weeks or months. Mata Nui, the Great Spirit of the universe, was dying. And there was nothing Takanuva could do.

 

Not that no one had taken action to save the universe. The elders of Metru Nui, the Turaga, had dispatched the Toa Nuva, six great heroes, to an island  called Voya Nui. A Mask of Life was said to exist on this island and it would be the only hope for the Great Spirit. Being a Toa protector himself, Takanuva would have wanted to join his comrades on this journey. The Turaga, however, had insisted that he stay behind to protect the city from other threats in case the Toa Nuva succeeded.

 

Nothing had been heard from the Toa Nuva in many days. Takanuva felt frustration over this. Something had obviously gone wrong, or else the Toa Nuva would have returned. He felt responsible for all this. Perhaps he could have made a difference in whatever battle the Toa Nuva had gotten themselves into, and saved a universe. Now all was doomed to destruction.

 

"It's not like you gazing at the sea like this", Macku said a bit playfully. Takanuva turned to meet eyes with his friend. None of the Matoran on Metru Nui knew about the inevitable doom of the universe. The Turaga had wanted to avoid mass hysteria. Thus Macku was as happy as always, cheerfully consulting her friend.

 

"I know... these are not ordinary circumstances", Takanuva replied, trying to hide his worry. But Macku was too good at seeing through others. She immediately grasped that something was wrong.

 

"You haven't looked like that since Jaller died... did someone die?"

 

"No...", Takanuva began. Then he suddenly got an impulse. This was very usual for Takanuva, for he was a very impulsive thinker. But this impulse made a lot of sense. Why should he keep secrets from his friend?

 

"Someone is about to die, Macku", Takanuva said. "The Great Spirit. Mata Nui is dying."

 

Macku wasn't sure what to make of Takanuva's words. They had come suddenly, out of nowhere. Was this related to the fact that the Toa Nuva had not been seen in a long time?

 

"The Toa Nuva?" Macku asked. "Are they..."

 

"On a mission to save the universe", Takanuva replied. "But they should be back by now. And all because I wasn't there to help them... I feel bad, Macku. I'm sorry I told you all this."

 

"I feel you haven't told enough yet", Macku said. "I still don't understand. Why is Mata Nui dying? How do the Toa Nuva think they can save us?"

 

Takanuva hesitated for a moment, then told Macku everything. Everything about the signs in the stars the Turaga had spotted, signs that proved Mata Nui was in bad health. He also told about the Mask of Life and Voya Nui, and the Toa Nuva's departure. When he was done, he looked at Macku. Instead of panic, Macku's mask displayed determination.

 

"Then there is only one thing to do", Macku said. "If we are all about to die anyway, there is nothing to lose. Someone has to go that island and save the Toa Nuva... or get the Mask of Life."

 

"I will do it", Takanuva said. "Despite what the Turaga think, I should help my friends."

 

"You can't do it alone", Macku insisted. "You are a powerful Toa, yes, but unity is what makes us strong... don't worry, I will arrange some help."

 

"I can't imagine who you could ask", Takanuva said. "Certainly not the Turaga."

 

"You'll see...", Macku said, with a hint of playfulness in her voice. "You might not be that surprised once you see."

 

 

Is this story worth continuing? Please give some feedback in the Review Topic. Next: Chapter 2 and a travel into the darkness...

 

Review Topic

Edited by Toatapio Nuva, Apr 11 2013 - 05:55 AM.

[Toatapio Nuva]

Chapter 2 - Into the Darkness

 

"This is incredible!" Taipu said with enthusiasm. "I can't believe we're actually doing this."

 

"This is not a chill-journey", Tamaru said uncharacteristically sternly. "The universe is in dark-peril. The dark-sleep threaten Mata Nui, and us too."

 

Macku could see Taipu's disappointment in the seriousness of others, but could not help agreeing with Tamaru. The Chronicler's Company was once again whole, sure, but the reason for that was dark and not at all pleasant. They had decided to go to Voya Nui themselves to save the Toa Nuva.

 

"This brings back memories", Takanuva said. "The six of you and myself, together again. If only infected Rahi were the most of our problems now."

 

"Whatever we will face now, we can handle", Hafu said. "If you get scared, Taipu, stay beside me. I'll not let one single attack get past me."

 

"I am fine with self-defence", Taipu replied. "Turaga Whenua says that my strength is unmatched among the Onu-Matoran. And Onepu always makes me do tasks that require strength."

 

"Yeah, because you agree to do it", Hafu said.

 

Takanuva suddenly stopped. Taipu didn't notice and hit the Toa of Light, then fell back. Hafu, Tamaru and Macku laughed gently. Kapura gave a smile. Kopeke was not paying attention to Taipu at all. He was looking at the same thing Takanuva was.

 

"A tunnel", Takanuva reported. "A dark one. We will have to go through it. There's no other way."

 

"Sounds dark-gloomy", Tamaru commented. "Why did we choose this route-path anyway?"

 

"The other choice would have been to go back to Mata Nui and use a boat to sail to Voya Nui", Macku said. "It's supposed to be in the sea above, the island."

 

Hafu shuddered a little. "Yeah. Sailing and water. Maybe this way will be more dry, at least. I'll take a few dark, dangerous tunnels over getting wet any day."

 

"I will go ahead and investigate", Takanuva told the others. "I am the Toa of Light, and so I am better equipped for the task. You stay here."

 

The others nodded. Takanuva used his power to create an aura of light around himself. Then he entered the tunnel, senses at alert. As soon as he was inside the tunnel, the aura of light vanished and nothing could bring it back. Takanuva shuddered. How was this possible?

 

The Matoran noticed the same phenomenon.

 

"Wasn't he supposed to be one of the most powerful Toa around?" Macku wondered. "Shouldn't his light penetrate any darkness?"

 

"The light must be absorbed", Kapura analyzed. "Hunger can consume everything, from food to hope... and light."

 

"Yeah, whatever", Hafu said. "I think we should go in after him. If he's gone, we'll want to know what he's gotten into, at least."

 

"After you", Tamaru joked. Hafu made a posture and was about to walk right in, when he was stopped by Kopeke.

 

"Don't", he said. Everyone turned to look at him. Kopeke rarely spoke, which was often interpreted as being rude. However, Kopeke was just quite shy. Kopeke speaking up meant that he had something important to share. "We should take precaution. So we don't lose each other."

 

"He's got a point", Taipu said. "If we lose unity, we lose everything. Maybe we should hold hands or something?"

 

"Let's do it", Macku agreed. "We will go in together."

 

The Matoran held hands and entered the tunnel. As soon as they entered, they could not hear anything. It wasn't only light that was being extinguished. Sound was consumed as well. The Matoran continued on, regardless. Kopeke could not help feeling cold, despite being a Ko-Matoran. Something about this place seemed out of place. He knew they were walking into something dangeorus, maybe incredibly so. Soon they saw light ahead, however, and found themselves on the other side. Takanuva was already there, happy to see his friends emerge from the darkness.

 

"I was about to turn back to get you", Takanuva said. "But you are resourceful as always, it seems."

 

"What is this place?" Taipu wondered aloud. "It looks so barren, so ancient! It's so fascinating!"

 

The area they were standing in was surrounded by a violent sea. Ahead of them was a bridge leading across the sea to a landmass on the other side. Behind them, the tunnel of darkness stood as it had been.

 

"I'm not going back into that tunnel", Macku said. "Might as well continue."

 

"Let's go then", Takanuva said. "But be alert. This place is unknown to us. We could encounter anything."

 

To be continued. Please review and give some criticism. It's what I feed on.

[Toatapio Nuva]

Chapter 3 - Path of Darkness

 

"I don't understand", Takanuva scoffed. His hand was touching an unseen surface, an energy field of some sort. The Matoran were on the other side. They had passed through with no problems, but Takanuva could not find a way to join his friends. They were effectively separated.

 

Kapura stared at the archway under which the barrier was. He mumbled to himself for a while, then said: "It doesn't allow Takanuva to pass... perhaps because he is a Toa?"

 

"Or a being of bright-light", Tamaru suggested. "Look around. Everything is deep-dark. There is no sun in the sky, no stars to bright-shine the ground." 

 

"I'm afraid you may be correct", Kopeke commented. "Look at the symbols carved in the archway. Turaga Nuju used similar to describe shadow and death."

 

"Let's go back", Macku said. "It's too freaky. And if Takanuva can't pass..."

 

Macku was stopped from returning by the invisible barrier. Her heart sank. If the barrier kept the Matoran from getting back, that meant they would have to go on without Takanuva. And that might be suicidal."

 

Hafu took a running start and jumped at the barrier. He bumped into the invisible force field and fell back, cursing. Taipu stiffled a giggle, but returned solemn after that. "We can't get back", he said, repeating the obvious.

 

"Stay here", Takanuva said. "I'll go get help and maybe..."

 

"No, don't bother", Macku said. "I think we should go on despite this. There's no way across the barrier, so we're stuck here anyway... we might as well make the best of it."

 

"Yeah", Taipu added in agreement. "We are strong because we're together. We can face whatever is ahead of us."

 

Takanuva found this hard to accept. It was Kapura who finally managed to convince him. "If we stop here, our past efforts will be in vain. The Turaga have taught us much, including the importance of going on despite setbacks. Go back to Metru Nui and tell the Turaga what has happened. We will move on and take whatever we must face with honor."

 

"Then... good luck to you all", Takanuva said, struggling to hide the sadness from his voice.

 

"We won't need luck", Hafu bragged. "Now go."

 

"Speed to your journey, Toa of Light", Kapura added.

 

No more goodbyes were shared. Takanuva turned back after taking one last look at the Matoran he had befriended so long ago and who he had had so many adventures with. They were all good Matoran, and now he could only hope and ask for the Great Spirit to keep them safe. It was no easier for the Matoran, especially Taipu, who had often looked up to Takanuva as an idol. He loved adventure, but without one of his best friends, much would be taken out of the excitement.

 

"We don't have all day", Hafu said. "Let's get going."

 

*

 

The Matoran had walked only a short while when they saw something ahead of them, in the middle of the path. It was another Matoran, battered and twisted in a horrible way, but still a Matoran.

 

"Who is that?" were Taipu's words. Macku decided to take another approach.

 

"Hey! Who are you?" she cried out to the stranger. The Matoran, obviously frightened, ran away along the path.

 

"Oh great, you scared him!" Hafu snorted. "You don't deal with new contacts like that."

 

"Yeah, you're so great with Matoran yourself, Hafu", Macku snapped. "How was I supposed to know he would scurry off like that?"

 

"He's climbing up the mountain", Kapura said. "There's one ahead."

 

"How do you know?" Taipu asked.

 

"I was there", Kapura said. "It is useful to be able to go there where you are not. There is something for you others to learn as well."

 

*

 

Kapura had been right. Just a short walk took the Matoran to the base of a mountain. They started climbing it, although not seeing the top made it feel like an endless ordeal. Taipu and Hafu had no trouble scaling the mountainside, but Tamaru was very reluctant by every cliff he got on top of. Kopeke realized the reason for that: Tamaru was afraid of heights. Even in their quest to find Kini-Nui back on the island of Mata Nui, Tamaru had been very nervous about swinging on a vine across a chasm. He had done it in the end, however, conquering his fear. He still had it, though, and the mountain was much higher this time.

 

"Don't worry, Tamaru. I'm right behind you", Kopeke said reassuringly. This shook Tamaru on the inside. Kopeke nearly spoke much, especially something with so much comfort and care in it. The fact that Kopeke was showing his support for the frightened Le-Matoran was very touching. Tamaru tried to say somethin gin response, but the heights made it too difficult.

 

"No need to answer", Kopeke said. "Sometimes words are useless."

 

"You hear that?" Macku interrupted the moment. "I can hear some scuttling sounds... like crabs or something."

 

"No crab sounds like that", Taipu said. "Believe me, I know Ussals."

 

"There are other crabs that Ussals, miner", Hafu said sternly. "This sounds like something big, though. Maybe if we can find its hiding place, I can take it on."

 

Any theories on crabs were instantly forgotten as the Matoran they had seen earlier appeared on a ledge. Hafu gave Macku a harsh looking, signaling for her to be quiet. Macku simply snorted in return.

 

"Hello", Hafu said to the Matoran who was still quite far higher than they were. "I am Hafu, master carver from the great City of Legends and this is my group. Who are...?"

 

"YOUR group?" Taipu said. "Haha, if Takua... I mean Takanuva were here to hear this..."

 

"Whatever, I'm just trying to consult him, okay?" Hafu said, annoyed. The strange Matoran beckoned for them.

 

"See? He's already more receptive", Hafu said. That was when the scuttling noices grew louder. Soon three Manas crabs appeared underneath the Matoran, regarding them as they were sandwiches on a plate. That was enough to make even Tamaru scurry higher up on the same level as the strange Matoran.

 

"Manas... incredible", Kapura said. "The Toa Mata defeated a horde of Manas, I remember. Down in Mangai, as Toa Kaita."

 

"We are not Toa, and certainly not Kaita", Tamaru said. "Let's get away from them."

 

When they were all on the same cliff as the strange Matoran, more Manas appeared behind them. The Matoran beckoned for the Chronicler's Company to follow him through a path winding down the other side of the mountain.

 

"Looks like we don't have many options", Macku said. "We'd better follow this Matoran or else face the Manas behind us. I wonder why they aren't attacking, though."

 

"Just be happy about that fact", Tamaru said. "Now let's mountain-walk."

 

Next: Karzahni! And as always, reviews are appreciated.

[Toatapio Nuva]

Chapter 4 - Realm of Rebuild

 

It was horrible. More than horrible... it was sickening and beyond anything the Matoran had ever seen before.

 

The Chronicler's Company had been following the strange, twisted Matoran for some time before arriving in this dark canyon. Waterfalls with dust instead of water roared in the distance. The ground screamed at each step taken. Twisted Matoran with hollow eyes labored ceaselessly and silently all around. A volcano that erupted solid ice was nearby. In the middle of all was a castle that looked like it had been drawn from a nightmare or Makuta's darkness.

 

"Nice", Tamaru said. The others looked at him in disbelief. "I was being deep-sarcastic, come on!"

 

"Well, we would be getting out of this place the first thing if the Manas still weren't blocking our way back", Macku said. "As things stand, we can only travel ahead and hope there's another cavern leading out of this place."

 

"They are without hope", Kapura said.

 

"Who?" Taipu asked.

 

"He's talking about the Matoran, miner", Hafu said. "And they do seem a bit... depressed. Or mentally absent."

 

"No. They have lost hope and thus have lost everything", Kapura said.

 

"Okayyyyyy, let's get out of here!" Taipu said. "Before something or someone decides to steal our hope as well."

 

"That would be me, Matoran."

 

The Chorincler's Company turned towards the castle in the middle of the canyon. A huge being was approaching from that direction. He was a hulking brute with silver armor, obviously scorched by all the heat around. He carried a long chain that seemed to burn all on its own. The worst of all was the Kanohi mask the being wore, which looked like it had patched up from four different masks. Behind the mask, dark-red eyes glowed expressionlessly. His voice was very quiet, almost as if he hadn't been using it for a long while.

 

"Welcome to Karzahni, Matoran", he said with a whisper. "No one has come in thousands of years... they must have forgotten this realm."

 

"K-Karzahni?!" Taipu exclaimed. "I know that word. I'm sure Turaga Whenua has mentioned it once or twice..."

 

"The opposite of the Great Refuge", Kapura said grimly. "A place of ending plight and flame..."

 

"We are on our way to Voya Nui", Hafu said, stepping forward boldly. He did fear the bizarre realm and its even more bizarre ruler, but he was not going to show it. After all, he was THE Hafu, master carver of Po-Koro and later Po-Metru. He would not falter under any circumstance or danger.

 

"Voya Nui?" Karzahni wondered aloud, though silently.

 

"Yes, an island south from Metru Nui, above in the ocean", Hafu continued. "We do not wish to stay in your realm, we are..."

 

"But you shall", Karzahni whispered. "You are here for a reason, Matoran. You will not leave. As for the strange names you mentioned... what is Voya Nui? Or Metru Nui?"

 

"Have you been living in a cave?" Hafu retorded. Then, after glanicng around, he added: "Oh, I guess you have..."

 

"Won't it be nice to wipe out that arrogant attitude out of you along with your mask", Karzahni sighed. "It is the first step of you settling here. I must change your masks, to make you part of my workforce."

 

With that, another twisted Matoran approached, carrying six strange masks that seemed organic rather than metallic. They looked like creatures, and ugly ones at that. Putting on one was the last thing any of the Chronicler's Company wanted to do. None of them believed that they had any other choice, however.

 

"No way I'm putting one of those on", Macku said, disgusted. "You call those masks?"

 

"Switch your masks", Karzahni commanded. "Or suffer the consequences."

 

"I always did want a new head-style...", Tamaru murmured, taking off his mask. Others followed him, except for Hafu.

 

"You... you cannot tell me what to do", Hafu said, trying to appear fearless. Without saying anything, Karzahni fixed his gaze on Hafu, even as his mask began to glow. All of a sudden, Hafu found himself back on the island of Mata Nui, on Kini-Nui. He looked around and saw his comrades, the Chronicler's Company, dead. A huge swarm of Nui-Rama was assaulting the Kini-Nui. Muaka, Nui-Jaga and Tarakava attacked from the woods, all bent on destroying the Great Temple. Hafu tried to throw disks at them, but it was no use. The Rahi pushed past him and assaulted the temple. The great structure fell as it was being pounded by the Rahi. Hafu screamed in protest.

 

That was not the end of the vision. Hafu could see into the future of this alternate world. The Toa Mata, with their only escape route blocked, were trapped in Mangaia. They succesfully defeated Makuta, but that was not enough. The Bohrok were awakened and released on Mata Nui. The Toa Mata were killed while trying to stop the swarms from reaching the surface. The Matoran, on the other hand, soon found themselves being assaulted by the Bohrok. They brought down mountains, dried rivers, burned forests... and they destroyed the Koro. In the end, the Matoran were left homeless... and eventually died slowly and painfully due to the lack of resources available.

 

Hafu woke up from the horrifying world he had been in. He was shaking. Never had he known that the mission of the Chronicler's Company had been so vital... he had never even suspected that their failure, just of six Matoran, would result in such a horrifying alternate timeline.

 

Shaken from the vision, Hafu silently took off his mask. Kapura, while feeling sorry for his Po-Matoran friend, silently hoped that he would at last learn some humility from this experience.

 

Next: The Company finds a secret and escapes Karzahni!

Edited by Toatapio Nuva, Mar 30 2013 - 10:34 AM.

[Toatapio Nuva]

Chapter 5 - Salvation

 

The Company was directed to a huge forge with blazing flames reaching out from its depths.

 

"You are to tend to the fires", Karzahni whispered. "You will relieve the Matoran working there from their duties."

 

"Why all this fire?" Macku asked. "What are you using it for?"

 

"You are but the first of many", Karzahni replied. "I must prepare for the new waves to come."

 

"That made no mind-sense at all", Tamaru said under his breath.

 

The Company had no other choice but to enter the forge. Kopeke especially had a hard time adjusting to the incredible heat. Macku too was having a hard time breathing.

 

"We can't... do this... forever", Macku stammered. Taipu looked at her, concerned.

 

"We haven't even started", he said. "This place is giving me the creeps. And these new masks... ew. They feel alive, somehow."

 

"We should get out of here", Macku continued. "We need to make a plan... where's Kapura?"

 

Taipu smiled. "Kapura, that good old fire freaky. He's scouting again, I'm sure. Or being somewhere where he's not... I'm not sure how that works, though."

 

"Turaga Vakama taught me well", Kapura suddenly said. No one was quite sure how he had gone and returned without anyone noticing, but that didn't quite matter, for Kapura had some good news.

 

"There's an old workshop nearby" he reported. "I met a Matoran there, and he spoke to me about Toa Canisters... are you thinking what I'm thinking?"

 

Macku nodded. "The Toa Nuva. Maybe they landed here?"

 

"If we can find the Toa, everything will be fine", Taipu said. "They can face Karzahni and the Manas."

 

During all this time, Hafu had been unusually silent. The others noted this but decided to keep quiet about the matter. There was some inner contemplation Hafu was going through. Now, however, he spoke again.

 

"Let's get going then... and quickly, before Karzahni knows we're gone."

 

*

 

Kapura lead the team to the old workshop. As the group entered, they found it completely abandoned except for one twisted Matoran waiting for them. "Where are the Toa?" Taipu asked with excitement.

 

"Toa?" the weird Matoran repeated. "Oh, you mean the canisters."

 

"We are talking about the contents", Tamaru said. "The ones who quick-travelled in them?"

 

The Matoran laughed. "The canisters were made by me and my brothers, and since then, no one has entered them. They are not for any Toa to enter, but for the six destined ones: Lewa, Gali, Onua, Pohatu, Kopaka and their leader, Tahu."

 

"Those are the Toa we are looking for", Macku silently gasped.

 

"Can we see the canisters?" Hafu asked. "They must be something spectacular, having survived all these years... and pristine, since no one has entered them."

 

"Oh yes! Yes!" the twisted Matoran said. "They are still as good as new, for I have been maintaining them, in secret from the Karzahni. You never know when a Toa will need to travel."

 

The Matoran lead the Company down a staircase into a small cavern. There six Toa canisters floated on the water, looking indeed as good as new. A waterway tunnel was leading from the cavern to... somewhere. As things stood, the Company demmed every alternative place better than this one, so it made little difference where the tunnel lead.

 

"We can use these to escape!" Taipu cried in delight.

 

"No one escapes Karzahni", Karzahni's silent voice managed to boom in the small place. The Matoran turned to see the hulking figure in the same cavern with them, eyes filled with rage. His chains were burning brighter than ever.

 

"Thank you for leading me here", he continued. "Now that I know about this place, I can easily destroy those canisters and reclaim you. You are mine. You belong to me."

 

"We will not surrender at this stage!" Taipu said defiantly. He decided it was his turn to face Karzahni's wrath, sparing Hafu from such a thing again. Hafu realized this and regretted all the times he had insulted the miner. He was truly his friend. 

 

"Beware", Karzahni bellowed, his voice growing louder. "I could easily give you visions that would be enough to tear your feeble minds to shreds!"

 

"Then do it!", Taipu pushed on. "Give us the most horrifying vision you can think of! Prove that it actually means something!"

 

"He's lost his mind...", Kopeke said, dumbstruck.

 

Karzahni's eyes flashed with rage as he activated his ancient Kanohi Olisi, Mask of Alternate Futures once more, enveloping everyone present in a vision.

 

The Matoran found themselves back on Metru Nui. The twin suns had gone dark, the only light coming from lightstones scattered around the city, but fading fast. The sea was roaring and trying to swallow the city. The ground beneath the Coliseum cracked and gave away, consuming the great structure along with the Turaga who dwelled inside.

 

Lightning crackled and the earth shook. Matoran were crying in panic and running here and there, trying to escape their doom.

 

Mata Nui was dead.

 

Some Matoran would survive for a while, some would die immediately. Many took boats and tried to sail away to find a safe place, but it was all in vain. A group of Matoran hid in the Great Furnace of Ta-Metru, trying to keep the fires alive. Eventually they too were swallowed by the hungry sea.

 

The universe was ceasing to be and even Takanuva's power could not save one single life. He too gave up in despair, surrendering himself to the currents...

 

The vision adruptly ended. The Matoran felt heartsick. The vision had been so horrible, and the possibility of it becoming reality was too much to take. More than ever the Chronicler's Company gained determination. The Toa Nuva had to be saved, or else there would be no one to find the Mask of Life. Or if the Toa Nuva were dead... the Company would do all it could do continue the mission.

 

Surprisingly, it was Karzahni who was most shocked by the vision. "Mata Nui...", he breathed. "Such power... such influence... if he dies, everything will... even my realm..."

 

"Quick, get into the canisters", Kopeke ordered. Due to years of meditation and training at mental discipline, his mind came through the vision fairly unscathed, though it had sickened him as well as the others. For similar reasons, Kapura was the first to enter a canister.

 

"Come with us!" Macku urged the twisted Matoran who had lead them here.

 

"No", the Matoran replied. "It is not my destiny, but yours. Go and do whatever you can to save the Great Spirit. As horrible as the vision was, there remains hope. Mata Nui is still alive, and something can be done. My part has been done, when I showed you these canisters. I will be waiting for the future. Now go!"

 

"Come on!" Tamaru shouted from his canister. Macku was running to the last empty one when Karzahni gained his composure. "You will not leave!" he yelled. "You tricked me!"

 

Karzahni swung his chain at Macku and her canister, but the twisted Matoran suddenly bolted forward and hit the chains. The impact was enough to hurl the chain from its course, sparing Macku and giving her time to crawl into the canister. But everyone present also saw that the Matoran was died. He had sacrificed his life to save a stranger.

 

"No...", Macku whimpered.

 

"Let's go!" Hafu shouted, closing his canister and speeding away. The others followed, with Macku silently asking the Great Spirit to watch over the dead Matoran's spirit. He had done as much as anyone else to save the Great Spirit that day, and Macku vowed he would not be forgotten.

 

Next: Arrival to Voya Nui and the Chronicler's Company as TOA INIKA!

 

Review Topic

Edited by Toatapio Nuva, Mar 31 2013 - 11:13 AM.

[Toatapio Nuva]

Chapter 6 - Toa Inika

 

The crackling of lightning.

 

Roaring sea.

 

Hafu felt sick inside his canister. As a Po-Matoran, he was not used to being around water. Travelling this way was more than he could take. The canister heaved this way and that as the violent seas tossed it around. Outside, Hafu could hear the storm growing in intensity. He had never experienced such a violent storm beofre, even on the island of Mata Nui.

 

Up in the cosmos, where none of the Matoran could currently see, the Red Star that had been used to predict prophecies glew bright. A thunderbolt shot down from its direction, splitting into six forks of lightning midway. Each bolt struck one of the canisters in the sea.

 

Hafu felt a jolt of pain, as electricity coursed through the canister and his body. The sensation changed soon, with his whole form seeming to grow in size and strength. He felt himself being drastically energized.

 

The last sensation was that of the canister hitting the shore of an island.

 

Hafu expected himself to be injured or paralyzed, but it appeared that was not the case. He actually felt more powerful than ever before. Opening the canister lid, he crawled out to find himself standing on an icy beach, with a storm raging on around him, It was dark, but he could see his friends coming out of their own canisters. He could swear he had never seen them before, however. Once they had been Matoran, but now they were much taller, clad in shining, sleek armor and carrying huge weapons found from within the canisters themselves.

 

"T-Toa?" Hafu wondered aloud. "You have become Toa?"

 

"I can say the same thing about you", Kapura said.

 

Hafu looked down at himself. It was true - he had become a Toa as well. He carried a huge axe in his hands, which seemed to crackle with energy. His Kanohi still felt organic, but it fit his face much better.

 

"I can't believe this!" Taipu exclaimed in awe. "I'm a Toa! How is this possible! I'm really a Toa!"

 

"We can be sure about one thing", Kapura said. "Whatever we have faced as Matoran will be nothing compared to what we are going to face now. For it is the burden we must carry for destiny."

 

"Why so negative?" Macku asked. "Aren't you excited? I mean, we have watched the Toa Nuva perform heroic deeds for so long... haven't you ever wished for the same kind of power? Now we can explore places no Matoran could ever hope to."

 

"That's right!" Taipu shouted and swung his Laser Drill at the ground to try out his powers. The drill slammed into the icy ground and created a violent explosion with rocks flying in every direction. Taipu withdrew his drill and took a step back in awe.

 

"As Taipu demonstrates, we do not only have the power, but responsibility with it", Kapura said. "I assume we are on Voya Nui now... and whoever stopped the Toa Nuva must still be here as well."

 

"We don't know what happened to the Nuva", Tamaru said.

 

"They didn't return", Macku said grimly. "So I doubt they succeeded."

 

"We must be on guard", Kopeke said quietly.

 

"And explore this island!" Taipu added. "Imagine, a whole new island we've never seen before."

 

"Let's get to it, then", Macku said. "I think we should find shelter first, though, where we can analyze all that has happened."

 

*

 

The new Toa walked further inland through the icy beach area. They soon found themselves in a desert filled with canyons and craggy surfaces. It was a terrain only a Rahi goat could love.

 

"So much stone to carve from", Hafu mused. "The carvers here must have material for great sculptures... if there are any Matoran here, that is."

 

"I found a tunnel-cave we can sit-rest in for a while", Tamaru said.

 

"Okay, but not for long", Taipu said. "I wanna see this island as quick as possible."

 

Once in the cave, Macku spoke up. "It's very stormy outside. Maybe we should wait here till it's over so we can see better?"

 

"A little storm is not going to stop us, now is it?" Hafu said, his old self penetrating his behavior for the first time since seeing Karzahni's vision.

 

"Every Ga-Matoran knows that sailing in a storm may be your last", Macku said. "And that might as well apply with walking."

 

"I wonder what mask powers we have", Taipu wondered aloud. "And how long it will take us to find out about them. I mean, the Toa Metru were said to have to learn them the hard way."

 

"These are unlike any masks I have seen before", Kapura said. "They are all mushy and of strange shapes... probably exclusive to Karzahni's realm."

 

"I just can't wait to find...", Taipu started, then screamed as he was apparently hurled straight at the ceiling of the cave. He hit it hard, but wasn't seriously injured, being of a tough sort. The others gasped, though.

 

"What was that high-jump?" Tamaru asked. "How did you do it?"

 

Tamaru suddenly staggered back. He could hear Taipu's voice telling about how he had no idea why he had flown against the ceiling. The problem was, Taipu was not speaking those words. He was still cradling his head. Though Tamaru could hear him. At the same time, he could hear all of the other Toa and their thoughts. It was even a little maddening.

 

"What's with him?" Hafu asked silently. "Tamaru... he's got a problem or something."

 

"Their mask powers", Kapura suddenly said. "It must be."

 

"But how?" Macku wondered. "Toa do not learn new mask powers that quickly if they have no one to guide them."

 

"But we do", Kapura said. "These masks felt like alive from the start... it is possible they are guiding us."

 

"They're alive, then?" Kopeke asked.

 

"Could be", Kapura said. "It explains what's going on around us... Kopeke!"

 

Everyone turned to look at Kopeke, who had apparently fallen unconscious.

 

"What happened to him?" Hafu asked. "And how can we stop all this madness?"

 

"Guys, can't you see him?" Macku asked. "Floating in the air?"

 

Hafu stared at Macku with disbelief. Kapura seemed to understand, though. "You can see him?"

 

"Yeah!" Macku said. "He's telling me that his spirit suddenly took on a form if its own, separate from his body. But he can't control it. Says it must be his mask power or something, but he's having difficulties turning it off."

 

"As am I", Tamaru muttered, struggling to stop the thoughts of everyone present from filling his mind.

 

"Well this is going to get interesting...", Hafu muttered.

 

Next: The Toa Inika's first confrontation with Piraka! Don't miss it.

[Toatapio Nuva]

Chapter 7 - Face of Evil

 

To the surprise of the Toa, mornings on the island of Voya Nui were no more peaceful than the storym nights. The rain and thunder had calmed down, but clouds still blocked the sun.

 

"I long-miss Mata Nui", Tamaru sighed. "Even with Makuta-shadow, we had tree-bright days."

 

"Everything is clear", Kapura said. "Let's go."

 

The company walked along the rocky terrain of Voya Nui. In the distance they could see a volcano, apparently active. Beside that, there was not much on the island. Kopeke doubted anyone lived on this miserable rock. Then again, something had stopped the Toa Nuva. Or maybe the island itself had defeated them?

 

"That's a neat mask power you got", Taipu told Kopeke. "To soar in the sky as a spirit! Mata Nui, I'd love to try that!"

 

Kopeke didn't say anything. It was not his thing to have conversations. He did give Taipu a smile, though. But an expression of worry soon took over.

 

"This isn't about cool mask powers", Macku said. "We must find - AGH!"

 

The other Toa grouped around Macku. She shook them off.

 

"No, it's alright... I just... had this sudden pain in my head."

 

"The same type Taipu gets from trying to think?" Hafu teased. Taipu gave him an annoyed glance.

 

"I'm sure it's nothing", Macku said. "Let's keep going."

 

Although the group resumed their journey, Macku's headache was not forgotten. Perhaps something had attacked her telepathically? It was certainly a possibility. Macku herself had a strange feeling the pain was connected to her mask, though she was not sure why... maybe it was the fact that the mask seemed to cling onto her if she touched it?

 

*

 

Nearby Piruk, one of the last remaining free Matoran on the island, ran for his life. He could hear Reidak and Vezok chasing him. Not long ago, those two Piraka had let all of the six Voya Nui resistance team members escape, due to an accident. Piruk had gone spying on the fearsome Piraka Stronghold, but had gone too close. Reidak had spotted him with his infrared vision, and Vezok had joined the hunt.

 

Piruk had tried hiding behind rocks, but the Piraka knew where he was all the time. He was not sure how. He was sure, though, that eventually he would end up Piraka-bones.

 

*

.

"Who is that?" Macku wondered as Piruk appeared from behind a large boulder.

 

"A Le-Matoran!" Tamaru recognized. "Brother Matoran, who are you?"

 

Piruk tripped over in surprise at the new Toa. Before he could say anything, Reidak and Vezok dashed into sight. Piruk shouted "Help!" in desperation.

 

"Bad guys!" Taipu said. "At least, I think so."

 

"With those glowing teeth and sharp-edged spines... and the fact they are harrassing a Matoran... I'm ready to bet that much", Hafu said.

 

"Can we defeat them?" Kopeke stammered. "We just became Toa..."

 

Hafu was already charging at the two Piraka, Laser Axe at the ready. Vezok and Reidak paused in their tracks. A new team of Toa was a very unexpected and unwelcome sight. Not long ago the Piraka had defeated six Toa Nuva who had come looking for the Mask of Life. The Piraka, thieves and murderers who had enslaved the Matoran of Voya Nui, were also after the mask. With them controlling the island without interference from anyone but six free Matoran, the only thing keeping them from the mask was the secrecy of its location. Still, on an island without considerable opponents, the Piraka seemed to have all the time they needed.

 

"What is it with this island becoming a gathering spot for wannabe-heores?" grumbled Vezok.

 

"Beats me", Reidak said. "But it matters not... remember what we did to the previous ones."

 

Hafu stopped in surprise. "The previous ones? There are Toa here?!"

 

"Were", Vezok said with a grin. "And soon you will be joining them, unless you heed my advice now and turn back. This is not an island for weaklings like you."

 

Hafu's eyes blazed like they were Ta-Matoran's. He was a master carver, he had helped the Toa Mata at Kini-Nui against Rahi, he had saved Po-Koro from a swarm of Bohrok. There was no way he would let himself being treated a weakling. He suddenly felt his mask unlocking its power for him. Then, with amazing accuracy, he swung his axe and caught Reidak in the chest, sending him crashing into Vezok and making both fall.

 

"Never weaklins", Hafu said. "You sure were in for a surprise, weren't you?"

 

Vezok pushed Reidak off him and gazed at Hafu. His impact vision did its magic, making Hauf feel like he was being punched by Onua Nuva himself. Hafu yelled and fell. Although it was only a sensation of an impact, not an actual physical attack, it made him lose his concentration.

 

"We must help him!" Taipu shouted and leaped forward. Due to his increased size, he tumbled face-first into a pile of mud. Reidak stood up and walked beside the new Toa of Earth, laughing.

 

"You make good comic relief Toa, although you lack in heroism."

 

Taipu stood up, spitting mud as he did so. Reidak did not wait for him to regain his senses. Instead, he punched the Toa of Earth with great force. Amazingly, Taipu did not fall this time. He simply shrugged off the impact.

 

"Once a lot of rocks fell on my head", Taipu said. The tone of his voice was very serious, contradictory to the actual content of the words. "They did not hurt me much. You think you can?"

 

Reidak punched Taipu again in the stomach. This time Taipu felt pain, but would not topple down that easily. As a Matoran, he had been the most powerful one around and would not falter even when fighting a Rahi ten times his size. He was able to lift boulders easily five times his weight. As a Toa, his power had dramatically increased, and the new Toa armor gave him even more resistance against attacks. He had become a powerhouse.

 

Taipu made a move himself, pushing shoving Reidak with his powerful claws. Reidak was surprised at the strength of this Toa as he fell on his back. He got up quickly again, however, and used his drill to soften the ground under Taipu. Being very heavy, Taipu started sinking into the ground. Taipu cried out.

 

The other Toa leaped into action now. Kapura used his ability to move fast by moving slowly to collide with Vezok and send him sprawling. Macku advanced, remembering that all Toa had elemental powers. She struggled to call upon for the first time the forces of water. To her shock, when she managed to launch a sphere of water at Vezok, it was not only water but also electricity that splashed the Piraka. Vezok had been prepared for a water blast, but the lightning within the attack jolted him powerfully.

 

Macku herself was as shocked as anyone. "What was that? I shot electricity at him, although I should only control water."

 

"You did shot water too", Kopeke said. "You used both. I wonder..."

 

Kopeke tapped into his newfound powers as well, aming it at the ground under Vezok. His power formed a sheet of ice under the Piraka, that made him slide against a rock. All the while the ice kept zapping him. Kopeke's elemental powers were interlaced with lightning as well!

 

"That's strange", Macku said. "We have living masks and lightning powers with our normal elements. I surely never thought being a Toa would feel like this."

 

Meanwhile Taipu was almost completely swallowed by Reidak's quicksand pit. Then he remembered that he had a mask power that might offer escape. A moment's thought sent Taipu flying out of the pit above the Piraka. Reidak gasped in surprise. A Toa of Earth who flew? That was something new, even to him.

 

Taipu cut off the power of his mask and landed on Reidak. Reidak rolled, dislodging Taipu, and swinging his drill. Taipu used his own Laser drill to block the blow and tried blasting with it under Reidak. The laser beam hit the ground and formed a small fissure, into which Reidak fell with a scream.

 

Vezok rose to his feet. He saw Reidak trapped in a hole and the Toa advancing at him. Only Tamaru remained behind, tending to Piruk and concinving the Matoran that everything would be all right.

 

I have battled Toa before, but these six are so strange... Vezok thought. And I'm all alone against them... screw Reidak, I'm out of here.

 

"It sure was nice to meet you", Vezok said. "But I'm afraid I'll have to take my leave. We'll meet again."

 

"Oh no you're not", Macku said. "We are capturing you."

 

Vezok grinned. "I make a difficult prisoner, Toa. Might want to rethink that."

 

With that Vezok ran off. Inexperienced as the Toa were, they could not stop him quickly enough.

 

"We still have the black one", Kapura said, but Taipu shook his head.

 

"He's gone", he said. "He must've drilled his way out."

 

"It's all right", Tamaru said to Piruk. "They're gone. You're true-safe."

 

"The Le-Matoran is shaking", Macku remarked. "We should take him someplace safe first. Maybe he will help us after that."

 

"I - I can help you", Piruk said. "I'll lead you to my friends... I'll let Garan explain everything to you."

 

"More of you?" Hafu said, getting on his feet. "Garan? Wow, we sure are getting a lot out of being Toa."

 

Next: The Toa Inika meet up with the resistance team, make up the name "Inika" and get their EP Zamor Launchers! Don't forget to review the latest chapter.

[Toatapio Nuva]

Chapter 8 - Star Toa

 

Piruk lead the new Toa to a cave well concealed by a stone door. There was a mechanism to move it aside. The Toa stepped into the small cave and saw five other Matoran there, waiting. Tamaru expected them to gasp in surprise with the appearance of six Toa. Instead, they looked on with concerned eyes, obviously not shocked to see Toa on their island. Why that was, Tamaru had no idea.

 

"Piruk, you're safe!" Garan said. "And I see you brought us some souvenirs too."

 

"These guys are Toa", Piruk said. "They saved me from Reidak and Vezok."

 

"We had Toa before and they lost", Dalu retorted. "Why would these new Toa be any better?"

 

"Excuse me", Hafu broke in. "How dare you talk to Toa like that?"

 

Dalu gave Hafu a harsh look. "We have had quite enough of Toa here. The first patch turned out to be a group of imposters. The second group was real all right, but they were battered to oblivion. This island is too tough even to Toa."

 

"The Toa Nuva? Battered to oblivion?" Taipu gasped. "Oh no, I never thought..."

 

"They may be dead", Kazi said. "But if a new Toa team has come to help us, I'm all for it. Six Matoran will not save an island without some muscle to back them up."

 

Dalu kept quiet. Velika nodded, seemingly deep in thought. It was Balta who spoke up next.

 

"If you are going to help us, it would be nice to know the name of your group."

 

The Toa exchanged glances. They had been so busy this day they had not thought about names. Their Toa team needed a name but none of them had any good suggestions. Toa Voya would sound ridiculous and its meaning was not a pleasant one. Finally, Kopeke came up with a name.

 

"We were hit by lightning from the Red Star... I think we should be called Toa Inika."

 

The other Toa accepted with nods. Inika meant a star in the Matoran language. Their weird attributes such as organic masks and lightning mixed with their powers had been caused by the Red Star, so the name was fitting.

 

"We are happy to have you, Toa Inika", Garan said. "But I must warn you. A Toa team already fell before you came and our people are enslaved by the Piraka. Plus, the Piraka have a strong ally, Brutaka, to aid them. If you decide to help us, you may perish here. So I am warning you before you decide to stay."

 

"The Toa Nuva must be avenged", Hafu said. "Some Toa we would be if we just ran away from danger. No, at least I will stay and fight."

 

"A lone bee is easy to swat, but a swarm can fell an Ash Bear", Kapura said. Velika glanced at him, surprised that someone else spoke in riddles like he did. He would keep an eye on this one.

 

"Yeah, we're friends", Taipu said. "We will stand by each other together."

 

"Our journey here was for nothing if we don't finish it", Macku said. "I'm with them."

 

"We shall hard-fight for a better leaf-dawn", Tamaru said.

 

Kopeke said nothing, but smiled and nodded when the others looked at him. He was in as well.

 

"So, then", Garan said. "Prepare for your greatest adventure ever... or your worst nightmare."

 

*

 

The Toa Inika and the Voya Nui resistance team made some careful planning in the hideout. There were several problems to be addressed.

 

1. The Matoran of Voya Nui who were enslaved would have to be freed. However, no one knew how this could be done.

2. The Piraka would have to be confronted and banished from the island.

3. Brutaka should be separated from the Piraka's alliance and defeated.

4. The Toa Nuva were to be found from the Piraka Stronghold, even if they were already dead.

5. The Mask of Life would have to be found before the Piraka did.

6. The mask should be used to heal Mata Nui.

 

The group decided to put saving the Matoran first, since they were who Toa existed to protect in the first place. For that they would need to find a cure. Velika stated, in riddles as always, that he might have an idea on how to do this. One Toa would need to test it out first, though. Velika crafted six Zamor launchers with extra storage room for Zamor spheres. Each Toa took one, with Taipu mounting his on his shoulder due to the heavy drill he carried with two hands.

 

"A hammer is redundant without a tablet", Velika had said. Kapura had understood this to mean that the Zamor launchers needed Zamor spheres to be useful. Although the Matoran had some stolen ones in storage, they would need more.

 

That was why Taipu, Hafu, Kapura and Garan were on top of a ledge looking down at the Zamor crystal mines. The Piraka had carved a special crystal from within the earth that they had used for making their multiple Zamor spheres. The Toa Inika would need some of those as well and that meant breaking into the mines and stealing some crystal.

 

The Zamor spheres that the Matoran already have had been filled with Energized Protodermis from a lake on the island. Velika had instructed the Toa to cautiously use them at one enslaved Matoran first, then the rest if their plan worked.

 

"Energized Protodermis is nasty stuff", Taipu said. "If we shoot these spheres at Matoran, they will transform or die!"

 

"Your poison may be my medicine", Kapura said. "Velika explained to me that whatever is enslaving the Matoran might be destroyed by the Energized Protodermis. Not sure why, but he seems to know more about the nature of the Piraka's virus than anyone else."

 

"Let's do this then", Hafu said, getting closer to the Matoran slaves laboring in the mines. They seemed oblivious to the Toa's presence, so he crept closer. Suddenly, though, something else emerged from the mines. Five small robotic beings beeped and turned their focus at Hafu.

 

"What are those things?" Hafu wondered. One of the robots suddenly launched some ropes out of it, binding Hafu and pulling him closer. He was released, but another robot blasted him with some sort of burning energy.

 

"The Piraka call them Nektann", Garan explained. "They are robotic guardians built originally by my people."

 

Kapura was with Hafu in no time, appearing next to the Toa of Stone. Taipu used his Kanohi Kadin to fly closer to his friends. He was very unexperienced with flying, however, and crashed into one of the robots. The robot was smashed beyond repair.

 

Kapura tested his new fire powers on the robots, melting two of them to slag. Afraid to unleash more in case it went out of control, Kapura held back. Hafu smashed rest of the robots with his axe.

 

"Good job", Garan said, arriving to the scene. "But they may have alerted the Piraka. We must be quick. Try one of the Zamors on the Matoran.

 

Kapura hesitated, but did shoot a Zamor sphere at one of the working Matoran. The sphere passed through the Matoran, releasing its contents. Kapura held his breath and watched the scene unfold. The sick glow all of the enslaved Matoran had was fading. The Matoran looked like he was waking up from a coma. He looked around in surprise.

 

"Where am I? What happened?"

 

"It works!" Garan exclaimed. "We can free my friends now, as soon as we get some of that crytal!"

 

The Toa Inika worked fast. Kapura kept launching Zamor spheres at enslaved Matoran while Taipu and Hafu, both experienced with mining and carving, went into the mines to find Zamor crystals. What they found was a rocky wall covered in glowing crystal... and a lot of disturbed Nektann.

 

*

 

While three of the Toa Inika and Garan were busy at the mines, Macku and Tamaru were scouting the Green Belt with Kazi.

 

"The Green Belt should not exist", Kazi said. "But it does, and Mata Nui knows how. It has kept the Matoran alive here for centuries though, so we have not been complaining." 

 

"The Mask of Life", Macku said. "Could that cause all this plantlife to appear on a barren island? Maybe it is hidden somewhere here."

 

"We have never known of any Mask of Life", Kazi said. "The Piraka want it too, though, so it probably does exist here. But if it was easy to find, we would have found it long ago. No, the mask must be well-hidden and probably heavily guarded."

 

"Below the earth-ground?" Tamaru suggested. Macku held her head as those words caused a headache.

 

"What's wrong with me?" Macku wondered. "I get these weird headaches... and I think it's my mask that is causing them. While my friends get these awesome mask powers, I get one that keeps disturbing me."

 

"I don't know much about masks", Kazi said. "But from what you have told me, the masks are organic and alive somehow. Some weird Toa you are."

 

"It's talk-chatting with you?" Tamaru wondered. "Maybe it's telling you something?"

 

Macku thought about that possibility. It was plausible, but what could a mask have to say to her?

 

"I'm sure we'll find out eventually", Macku said. "Let's continue with what we came here for - looking for supplies."

 

"We had a lot of food and water barrels in the hideout", Kazi explained. "But lately we have been too busy to collect more. We should stock on fruit and some wood and get back before the Piraka find out we're here."

 

The Toa Inika got to work. Tamaru had spent a lot of time in Le-Koro gathering fruits in the forest. He was afraid of heights though, so he mainly collected berries from bushes on the ground. As a Toa, he felt that he had to conquer his fear in order to become a better fighter. Deep down, he thanked Mata Nui for giving the mask of flight to Taipu, however.

 

Macku occupied herself by collecting wood. It reminded her of her time as a Matoran, when she had built boats for Ngalawa canoe racing competitions. Macku had excelled at the sport, even winning a copper mask trophy.

 

"How are the waters around the island?" Macku asked Kazi.

 

"Bad", Kazi replied. "The sea is violent. The only safe way is through the lagoon entrance. Every other way is lethal."

 

Their conversation was cut off by a scream. It was Tamaru's voice! Macku and Kazi ran towards the sound and saw Tamaru fending off several Dagger Spiders and Burnak all by himself.

 

Macku launched her new Energy Harpoon at the ground between Ramaru and the Rahi. It caused an explosion that scared off the beasts.

 

"I'm sorry, I almost hit you", Macku said sadly. "I am not yet used to my new weapon... it's so destructive I actually fear carrying it."

 

"Well, it saved my mask now", Tamaru said. "Those were some quick-angry Rahi. And I didn't spot-see any Makuta-masks on them either."

 

"The Rahi here can be aggressive when you invade their territory", Kazi said. "The Matoran have learned to move around so as not to attract their attention. You need to so some learning as well."

 

"That's what being a Toa is, I guess", Macku said. "Learning new things everyday to survive the tomorrow."

 

Next: The Toa Inika continue their mission to free Voya Nui! Please remember to state your opinion about the latest chapter in the review topic. Link in first post.

[Toatapio Nuva]

Chapter 9 - Who Will Help?

 

Back on the island-city of Metru Nui, Takanuva sat on a rock in Po-Metru and sighed. It had not yet been long since he had returned to Metru Nui. He regretted the decision, since every day was filled with concern for his friends. Takanuva knew each one of those Matoran well and had developed strong friendships with them. Not knowing if they were alive and what they were doing stung at Takanuva. For now he did his best to set aside his worry by concentrating on the reconstruction of Metru Nui. Many Matoran had noticed that Takanuva had suddenly grown into harder a worker than he had originally be.

 

Takanuva saw Hahli walking towards him. What was the new Chronicler doing here?

 

"The Turaga request to see you", Hahli said. "They say it's important."

 

"That's strange", Takanuva muttered sarcastically. "Their news have always been so joyous before."

 

Hahli looked concerned. "To me, it seemed like they were very upset in you. I don't know why, though."

 

Takanuva gulped. What could this mean? He didn't want to go to the Coliseum, but knew he could not avoid it. So he left with Hahli and took a chute to the most revered building in Metru Nui.

 

Once inside the Turaga's chamber, Turaga Nokama asked Hahli to leave, leaving Takanuva alone with the seven Turaga of Metru Nui.

 

"You have acted very differently later", Dume said sternly. "Everyone has noticed this."

 

"I have felt like working", Takanuva tried.

 

"Six Matoran have disappeared from Metru Nui", Dume continued. "Matau's left-hand Matoran Tamaru, Nokama's right-hand attendant Macku, Whenua's left-hand and strongest worker Taipu, Onewa's left-hand master carver Hafu, Nuju's left-hand ice sculptor Kopeke and Vakama's left-hand Kapura. One from every Metru..."

 

"And conveniently the very same Matoran we let join your Kini-Nui company back on Mata Nui", Onewa said. "What do you know?"

 

Before Takanuva could answer, Dume added: "We suspect you told them of the Toa Nuva."

 

Takanuva looked down. He was feeling very uncomfortable. "We are going to die anyway", he said flatly. "The Toa Nuva have not returned. I thought we could do something..."

 

"We agreed to keep it a secret", Dume said angrily. "If we can't trust a Toa of Light to keep to his words, is there anyone in this universe we can?"

 

With that, Dume walked away from the chamber. Takanuva watched him go, wondering if he had failed his duty by telling a forbidden secret.

 

*

 

Toa Kopeke sat in the Matoran hideout with Dalu, Velika, Piruk and Balta. Dalu had insisted she be sent with Garan and the three Toa who went with him, but Garan had insisted she stood in the hideout. The Matoran told Kopeke about the history of Voya Nui, what the Piraka had done and every bit of detail that might be useful for the Toa's quest. Seeing as Kopeke was the most silent of the Toa, he made the best listener.

 

"You have to learn to speak out more, though", Balta said finally. "You know much about Voya Nui, but you must share that knowledge with your friends. That's why we wanted you to stay here - to learn."

 

"I will", Kopeke said quietly. Dalu shook her head.

 

"This one is still too shy. We must teach him to be more outgoing."

 

Kopeke did not appreciate the attitude of the heisty Ga-Matoran. Where he came from, Ga-Matoran were more like himself: quiet and contemplative. Here, apparently, they were rude and aggressive.

 

"I'm sure he will speak up when the time comes", Balta said. "Before you can obtain the Mask of Life, you must -"

 

The mechanisms of the hideout door creaked. Macku, Tamaru and Kazi entered with lots of supplies.

 

"Mission accomplished", Macku said, smiling. "These fruits will keep everyone nourished for a long time and with the wood you can build better defences against Nektann."

 

"Splendid", Balta said. "Now that you are all here, there is another thing you must do."

 

"What would that job-task be?" Tamaru asked.

 

"I will accompany you to a cave in the Desert of Sorrows", Balta said. "At this time of the evening, the desert is not as hot as it usually is, so even a Toa of Ice will not feel too bad there. Macku and Kopeke will come with me. Tamaru, you will go with Piruk to the Green Belt again, to map it."

 

Tamaru was surprised by his task. "Why?" he asked.

 

"We heard you used to be a navigator in your old home", Balta explained. "The Green Belt is a tactical point on this island. It is not very large, so mapping it should not take a long time. Once we have detailed information about its shape and location, we can be more secure with operating in that place."

 

"I will do it", Tamaru agreed, though he suspected the Ta-Matoran was not telling him something.

 

*

 

"This is bad", Taipu said as the Nektann-robots opened fire. Too bulky to dodge, Taipu was repeatedly hit with the blasts. Fortunately, his strong armor let him stand almost unaffected. He fired his laser drill at some of the robots, imploding them.

 

"We need the crystal in this cave", Hafu pointed out. "But we can't mine with these things in here. We will have to destroy all of them."

 

"Shouldn't be too hard", Taipu said, focusing his elemental power on the earth all around them. The mine started to shake and collapse.

 

"What are you doing, you kolhii-head?!" Hafu shouted. "You're bringing the whole mine down!"

 

"I - I didn't know I have so much power...", Taipu said with fear in his voice. He had sought to control the earth to crush the robots, but he had underestimated the amount of power he now possessed. The whole place was coming down because of him.

 

"The crystal!" Hafu exclaimed. "If this place is buried, we will lose the crystal!"

 

"The Matoran!" Taipu shouted. "Slaves they may be, but we cannot let them die!"

 

Together, Hafu and Taipu grabbed the zombie-like Matoran slaves working in the mines and carried them out of the collapsing cavern. The presence of Nektann and their constant attacks did not make things any easier. Luckily, there were not many Matoran around. Hafu was keeping them from returning into the collapsing cavern, blocking the way in the narrow tunnel with his body. However, Taipu actually returned to the cavern and started to burrow into the crystal.

 

"No! Taipu!" Hafu shouted. The mission was already lost, why was Taipu staying in there?

 

The cavern collapsed completely. Hafu shouted in horror and Taipu was lost from view.

 

*

 

Outside, Kapura had freed many Matoran before he had ran out of zamor spheres. The remaining slaves did something very unexpected - they started attacking the Toa of Fire. Before, they had been more than happy to ignore anything going on around them.

 

Garan gasped as Reidak, Avak and Hakann entered the scene. He then understood the change in the behavior of the Matoran slaves. The Piraka had commanded them to attack.

 

"Toa Kapura!" Garan shouted. "Three Piraka!"

 

Kapura was fending off the attacking Matoran, doing his best not to hurt them. He would have no chance to concentrate on the Piraka with all these wannabe bad-guys harrassing him.

 

Hakann Avak fired a Zamor sphere at Kapura. Nobody was sure what happened next. Kapura was fighting the Matoran, noticing the sphere too late to dodge it. Then his mask seemed to take control over his body, allowing him to get down incredibly fast. The Zamor sphere struck a rock.

 

My mask... it let me dodge the sphere, Kapura thought. A mask of dodging? Or something else?

 

"Impressive", Hakann sneered. "The last great deed you will ever do."

 

Garan would not let these Piraka get them without a fight. He fired a ball of energy with his pulse bolt generators. The blast grew bigger as it traveled, eventually hitting Avak with considerable force.

 

"Get the Matoran", Hakann said to Reidak. "I will get the Toa."

 

"Why do you get the Toa and I the Matoran?" Reidak complained. "I want a challenge, you hear..."

 

Another pulse bolt struck Reidak, sending him flying.

 

"You already have a challenge you can barely handle", Hakann snorted. "Just get the Matoran!"

 

Kapura tried creating a barrier of fire around himself. Due to his nature, the wall was also electrified, making an effective barrier. However, the Matoran simply walked into the electrified fire, heedless of the danger. They burned and got shocked and Kapura gasped. He had specifically avoided hurting the Matoran. He quickly cancelled the barrier.

 

Hakann was approaching when Hafu suddenly darted out of the mine tunnel, followed by few surviving Nektann. The Matoran slaves had stayed in the tunnel, confused with the disappearance of the mines where they were supposed to be.

 

As soon as he saw Hakann, Hafu activated his Kanohi Sanok and used his Laser Axe as a sort of Kolhii stick to throw a boulder at the Piraka. The boulder struck naturally and felled Hakann. Hafu then proceeded to save Kapura from the Matoran slaves.

 

"I ran out of zamor spheres", Kapura explained. "But you still have some left. Free these slaves!"

 

After saying that, Kapura used his unique abilities to appear beside the now-recovering Hakann. Kapura pointed his energized flame sword at the Piraka. "Stay down or I will burn you."

 

"You would not do that", Hakann laughed. "You are a Toa. I know their stupid rules... they never kill."

 

Kapura realized he could not bluff with these foes around. They were obviously more skilled with hunting Toa than he realized.

 

Hakann didn't even bother firing his lava gun at Kapura. He knew Toa of Fire were resistant to fire and heat. Instead, he struck with a mental blast, staggering Kapura. If he expected that to defeat the Toa of Fire, however, he was going to be disappointed. Kapura had thousands of years of experience in mental discipline and training. Although the mental shock was powerful, it would not defeat Kapura.

 

Nearby, Garan dodged Avak's zamor spheres and Reidak's blows. He considered calling the other Toa for help, but knew they would help him as soon as they were ready with their own problems.

 

You don't need to be a Toa to be a hero, Garan reminded himself. A pulse bolt distracted Avak while Garan slipped underneath Reidak and hit his legs, toppling the Piraka.

 

Garan was about to rise, but Reidak quickly got back to his feet and grabbed the Onu-Matoran. "It's time I broke your neck!" he growled. A perfeclty aimed rock hit Reidak's hand, forcing him to let go of the Matoran. Hafu stood by his Matoran friend now, laser axe charged and ready for combat. Nearby, the freed Matoran hid behind big boulders, watching the conflict. None of them were enslaved anymore, sparing the Toa from additional trouble.

 

However, the Piraka were not concerned by this. Avak leaped to the nearest Matoran and grabbed him, shouting at the Toa: "Surrender now, or we will see to it that these Matoran will be killed!"

 

Some of the Matoran tried to run away, but Avak launched zamor spheres at them, re-enslaving them. The rest wisely stood still.

 

This was a threat the Toa had to take seriously. Protecting the Matoran was their sworn duty. If they kep fighting, Avak could doubtless kill many Matoran. Even if the Matoran were enslaved, they would still be alive - but from death, there was no turning back.

 

After hesitating for a long time, Kapura, Garan and even Hafu dropped their weapons. None of them wanted to do it, but duty dictated otherwise. 

 

"It has always been true and still remains so today...", Hakann said. "Duty creates the strongest of chains."

 

Next: What happens to Kapura, Hafu and Garan? What happened to Taipu? What of the fate of the universe? What is cheese really made from? Please review this chapter to let me know what was good and what needs to be improved.

[Toatapio Nuva]

Chapter 10 - Trouble

 

Piruk watched passively as Tamaru looked at his surroundings and carved notes on a tablet. Mapping the Green Belt wasn't a quick process, even with the small size of the forest. On the island of Mata Nui, it had taken Tamaru several years to map certain parts of Le-Wahi. Back then, though, he had had the option of flying a Kahu to get a better view of the island. His fear of heights had denied him that.

 

"What was life like here in past-before?" Tamaru suddenly asked while mapping. "Before the Piraka came?"

 

Piruk shrugged. "Not that great, really. We... we lived in a village in the desert. And, you know, trying to survive."

 

"Why did you come here, on this dark-gloomy island?" Tamaru continued, mapping furiously.

 

"We didn't", Piruk answered. "The island came here."

 

Tamaru stopped mapping and looked at Piruk in surprise.

 

"Crazy, isn't it?" Piruk said. "Some thousands of years ago we lived as part of a continent... I think it was inside a large cave or something. Nowadays we call them Nui Caves. They still exist, but only partly. Anyway, then something happened... Balta says the Great Spirit suffered from an attack or something. And bam, we heard a huge crash and most of our people died as the caves shook. After the shock was over, we used cracks in the walls to travel up here, where this island was."

 

Tamaru could hardly believe what he was hearing. "If you had a life-home down below, why did you choose to be up-ground? This place is not very hospitable."

 

"We had no choice", Piruk explained. "The home down below was gone. We could not live there any longer. The quake damaged it too badly, and it was overrun by Rahi. Up here we at least had a chance to fend off creatures and such. More place to move, and a sun that shines on us. Even if it's a merciless one."

 

Tamaru thought for a moment. Piruk's story sounded very much like the one the Turaga had told him. The Great Spirit had fallen asleep due to Makuta's actions. Matoran had been saved by transporting them out of the boundaries of the underground world of the Matoran, through cracks.

 

There was no more time to ponder, as a blast struck Tamaru behind. It was an icy blast that gave him frostbites. Piruk screamed and scrambled off. Tamaru rolled over and saw a white figure emerging from the woods. It was similar to the other Piraka, but had an ever broader smile and an ice gun. Frost still drifted from it. Thok's eyes glowed and suddenly Tamaru felt his world spinning.

 

"Too easy", Thok said. "I thought Toa would be more of a challenge, but apparently they grow them weak here."

 

Despite the world spinning, Tamaru managed to use his mask - or perhaps the mask was using him? - to sent telepathic messages to Thok. Confused, Thok's concentration was broken, allowing Tamaru to rise.

 

Tamaru followed with a tornado lanced with lightning. Thok spun around and around while being jolted by powerful electric shocks.

 

Piruk emerged from the darkness. "You caught Thok!" he exclaimed.

 

"Thok?" Tamaru said. "A Piraka-villain."

 

A fist of earth knocked Tamaru on the ground. The tornado dissipated and Thok advanced again. "You underestimated the power of Thok", he growled. "Now say goodbye to your free will, Toa. I have always wanted a personal slave."

 

Thok launched a Zamor sphere at Tamaru. Piruk gasped in horror. Knowing the power of the spheres, Tamaru would be nothing more than a servant of the Piraka.

 

Next: More on the other Toa. I know, this was a shortie. Next ones will probably be longer.

[Toatapio Nuva]

Chapter 11 - Friend or ally?

 

Macku and Kopeke remained quiet as Balta led them to a desolate village on a cliff. Items were scattered here and there and the place was deadly quiet. Everyone who had lived here were now working for the Piraka at the Valmai.

 

It was not an easy trek for Balta either. The village filled him with memories of his friends, now nothing more than mindless slaves. Balta had lived here for thousands of years, ever since the Great Cataclysm had wrekced the universe. The Matoran hadn't had much, but they had survived by working together. Now there was nothing left.

 

"We are here to gather some equipment left over by us", Balta explained, trying to shove his memories aside. "The Piraka enslaved everyone by surprise. There was no time for us to collect stuff when me and the other resistance members fled."

 

"But why didn't you come back later?" Macku asked. "There's nothing here to stop us."

 

A dozen small robots scuttled out of a house and targeted the Toa.

 

"Guess again", Balta said. "Those are Nektann, Piraka's guardian robots. They have stationed some here as well, to keep us out."

 

"Well, small robots like those cannot keep Toa out, right Kopeke?" Macku said. Kopeke nodded as he drew his energized ice sword.

 

The Nektann fired. A blast hit Macku, causing surprising pain even though her Toa armor was more than enough to reduce the damage. Kopeke heistated, but fired ice energy from his sword, both jotling and freezing the robotic guardians. The combination was deadly for robotic creatures and most of them fell.

 

A Nektann sneaked up on Balta and fired. Balta turned at the sound and used his repellers in time to send the blast back at the robot, shattering it. Macku got up and fired her energy harpoon at the remaining Nektann, effectively demolishing them.

 

"That wasn't so hard now was it?" Macku said. "With this kind of power at our disposal, we should be able to save your island and the Great Spirit pretty soon."

"Perhaps", Balta said. "But the Piraka are not robots. They are powerful, cunning and deadly."

 

Kopeke looked at the defeated machines. A lot of things were going on in his mind, not the least which was fear of his own power. It was so devastating, even more so than with normal Toa. Macku might see the power as a blessing, but for Kopeke it was a reason to fear and to watch out for himself. If he was not careful, he might end up the doom of the Matoran, instead of their savior.

 

Balta visited several of the abandoned huts while Macku and Kopeke kept watch. Balta collected all kinds of supplies and valuable items and gave them to the Toa to carry. They then headed back to the hideout in silence, each with their own thoughts.

 

*

 

Kapura grumbled as Reidak slammed the cell door shut. He had been taken deep under the Piraka Stronghold, while Hafu had been taken elsewhere. Kapura suspected this to be because of Hafu's element. A Toa of Stone was generally hard to keep captive. Kapura had almost decided to try to escape at that point, but had kept calm. After all, the reason the Toa had surrended was the safety of the Matoran. Sure, the Piraka would enslave them again, but at least they would be alive. Trying to escape would provoke the Piraka to kill Matoran, which the Toa could not risk.

 

"We have to free the Matoran and get them to safety before the Piraka realize", Kapura said to himself. "But first, getting out of here..."

 

Kapura examined his cell. It was hard, smooth stone with no windows around. The cell was completely empty except for a lightstone hanging from the ceiling, giving some dim illumination to the place.

 

"I wonder why they thought a Toa of Fire couldn't escape this cell", Kapura murmured to himself. His flame sword and zamor launcher had been taken away from him, but he still commanded fire. As for his Kanohi, the Piraka had given up trying to pry it off his face as the mask itself had protested. It had been a disturbing experience even for hardened Piraka.

 

Kapura concentrated his fire power on the door. The electricity would not affect rock, but enough heat might be able to melt it. Hopefully Reidak would be far from the prison corridor by the time Kapura succeeded.

 

*

 

Avak handled Kapura's flame sword with extreme care. It was like nothing he had ever laid his hands on before. It was designed like a regular sword, but the energy coursing through it was unnatural. It could actually amplify existing powers, which intrigued Avak.

 

Reidak entered the chamber. It was mostly used by Avak as a mixed storage room and lab. He hated it when any of his allies disturbed his work.

"Don't even think of taking that laser axe", Avak said, referring to Hafu's weapon laid on a table nearby. "I'm not done with these things yet."

Reidak growled. "You cannot tell me what to do. I'm here to check on you. Zaktan told me to do so."

 

"So you are a pawn of Zaktan, then?" Avak snarled.

 

"No", Reidak said. "Only until the Mask of Life is in our hands. I'm obeying him to create trust. Then, when the time is right, I will use that for my own ends."

Avak was more than slightly worried about Reidak's cunning. He could seem to brainless at times, yet he possessed incredible tactical skills. "You fool. Zaktan trusts none of us", Avak said. "Especially after that attempt to overthrow him..."

 

"That's your problem, not mine", Reidak said. "It was you who caged him, not me."

 

"Didn't you check up on me enough already?" Avak snapped, tired of the black Piraka's presence. "Get out. I've got to hurry if I want to check out that axe too..."

 

Avak stopped in mid-sentence. The laser axe was gone. Moments ago, it had been between the two Piraka on the table. Now it had vanished.

 

"Give it back", Avak ordered. Reidak shook his head.

 

"I didn't take it, you dunce", Reidak growled. "What would I do with a Toa's axe, anyway? I've got my muscle."

 

Avak was about to make a remark when he suddenly realized the flame sword was gone as well. There was no way Reidak or anyone else could have grabbed it from right under his nose. This made him worry. Another glance revealed that the zamor launchers were missing as well. All of the Toa tools had been taken, though it should not have been possible.

 

"I think I'm going insane...", Avak said, earning a chuckle of approval from Reidak.

 

*

 

Kapura traversed the hallways of the Piraka Stronghols silently, holding his and Hafu's Toa tools. Given his strange abilities, it had been easy for Kapura to sneak into Avak's chamber and take back what was rightfully his and Hafu's. Now the only thing he needed to find was Hafu himself. And Garan.

 

It did not take long for Kapura to reach the central chamber of the stronghold. There were no Piraka present. Instead, a huge vat of greenish gas stood in the center, looking imposing and dangerous. The substance inside it was swirling furiously, almost as if it were... alive.

 

Kapura was about to examine the vat closer when he heard sounds nearby. Kapura was gone in seconds, well before Zaktan entered and began talking to the vat of Antidermis...

 

"Do not fret, great one... soon the Mask of Life shall be ours. Just after I have disposed of those new Toa

 

Next: More excitement and battles!

[Toatapio Nuva]

Chapter 12 - Who Falls for the Universe?

 

"Simple questions", Vezok snarled. "Speak the truth and you shall live another day."

 

Garan gulped. He had heard plenty about this room, called the chamber of truth. It could detect lies and tilt the floor accordingly, eventually exposing the person inside to molten lava. It was not a fate he was eager to meet, but he would not rat out on his friends.

 

"Where did those new Toa come from?" Vezok asked.

 

Garan had heard from the Toa Inika that they had come from a city called Metru Nui, just as the Toa Nuva had. He would never tell that to Vezok, though.

 

"They came from an island where your kind once thrived, till the Toa took care of that kind of junk."

 

The floor tilted, revealing searing lava.

 

"Your defiance will cost you your life", Vezok said. "More junk to be rid of."

 

*

 

Kapura and Hafu looked at the wall of the Piraka's trophy room, stunned. The masks of the six Toa Nuva were nailed on the wall, no doubt signs of triumph.

 

"Mata Nui", Kapura breathed. "The Toa Nuva... I'm not so sure we can rescue them anymore."

 

"The Piraka will pay for doing this to them", Hafu scowled. "We will defeat them and tear down this stronghold of theirs..."

 

"First we have to find Garan", Kapura said. "It was easy finding you and our weapons, but I think Garan is being questioned in the chamber of truth. That's what the Piraka talked about when they captured us. As for the Toa Nuva, we will avenge them if they're dead... if alive, we will find them."

 

"Right", Hafu said, sounding defeated. He had always looked up to the Toa Nuva. Even though he was now a Toa himself, the defeat of his reverred heroes was not easy on him.

 

*

 

"You have given me three lies already", Vezok said to Garan, who was on the verge of plunging into lava. "One more and your time is done."

 

"Try it", Garan said. "Try and get your answers from me. I will not speak."

 

"I doubt your friends will be so foolishly loyal to your little group of rebels", Vezok answered. "Piruk, for one, will chicken out even before we have to take him here."

 

"That's not true!" Garan snapped. "He may not be the bravest of Matoran, but he is trustworthy to the core!"

 

Vezok laughed. "All Matoran are cowards. Some just decide to pretend to be more, like yourself."

 

"Just ask the last question, you freak", Garan said. "Let's get this over with."

 

Vezok suddenly yelled as a fiery cage imbued with lightning surrounded him. Hafu used the controls of the chamber of truth to move the floor back into place. Soon after, the door opened, letting Garan out.

 

"We have to return to the others", Kapura said. "We are not powerful enough for this fortress yet. We need our whole team."

 

"But how about my friends?" Garan asked. "The other Matoran!"

 

"They're enslaved again", Kapura replied sadly. "But the time will come when we free them again."

 

"Let's take this blue one as a hostage", Hafu suggested, referring to Vezok. "We may use him."

 

Vezok had heard enough. He hurled water daggers at his prison, extinguishing it. However, the electricity of the prison jolted Vezok as he made his escape.

 

"Don't let him get away!" Garan shouted, but Kapura held back. "Let him go. We will meet him again. For now, though, we have to go!"

 

With that, Hafu reluctanctly blew a hole in the wall of the stronghold. Sneaking past several Nektann, the trio made their escape.

 

Next: More on the other members of the resistance.

[Toatapio Nuva]

Chapter 13

 

Kapura, Hafu and Garan walked to their hideout in silence. As far as any of them were concerned, their mission had been a failure. They had failed to obtain the crystal, permanently freed the Matoran - and Taipu was gone.

 

At least, that was what the trio was prepared to tell the others. Instead, when they arrived at the hideout, they could see a huge slab of the Zamor crystal and Taipu himself talking with Kopeke and Macku.

 

"Taipu!" Hafu exclaimed in total disbelief. "What - you're here? You survived!"

 

Taipu chuckled. "They don't get me that easily. It's not like I haven't been in a cave-in before."

 

"And how did you get that much crystal here?" Garan asked, not able to comprehend what was happening. The other members of the Matoran resistance team smiled and even chuckled a bit at this.

 

"Oh, once I cleared the cave, I carved this chunk out of the bedrock", Taipu explained. "And I carried it here. Wasn't that heavy."

 

"Now it's your turn", Macku said to Hafu and Kapura. "Where have you been? What happened?"

 

Hafu, Kapura and Garan briefly explained their ordeals at the Piraka Stronghold.

 

"Well, you were lucky to survive", Kazi said. "You were ridiculously underprepared to go there - and just the two of us."

 

"Those who expect the rain to fall will eventually get their wish", Velika said thoughtfully, which earned nothing but a sigh from Kazi.

 

"I think he means that pessimism will do nothing but bring to you what you are already expecting", Garan explained. "In this case we survived, so we should not dwell on that. Instead, we should concentrate on what happens next. We have enough Zamor crystal for a long time, so Velika will start crafting some more Zamor spheres for you, Toa. Then we will fill them with Energized Protodermis and free the Matoran."

 

"By the way, where are Tamaru and Piruk?" Dalu asked. "They've been mapping for a pretty long time."

 

*

 

ZAP

 

The Zamo sphere hit Tamaru, turned intangible, and passed through the Toa. The contents of the sphere would now affect Tamaru, making him a slave of the Piraka. Tamaru waited. Thok waited. And so did Piruk.

 

Nothing.

 

"What is this?" Thok snarled. "You should be enslaved."

 

Tamaru was as surprised at Thok. He had heard plenty about the enslaving Zamor spheres from the Matoran. But he seemed to be immune to the effects.

 

Taking advantage of the confusion, Tamaru sent an electrified tornado at Thok, knocking him off his feet. Tamaru then advanced.

 

Thok wasn't about to give up. His power brought plants, rocks and trees alive around the Toa of Air, which then proceeded to attack him. Tamaru panicked, for there was no way he would be able to defeat so many unliving opponents, and Thok.

 

But maybe he wouldn't have to?

 

Even before Tamaru had made his decision, his organic Suletu activated on its own. Tamaru seized the moment and sent mental gibberish into Thok's head, effectively disturbing his concentration. Soon enough, the plants and rocks became unliving and unmoving again.

 

Thok had seen enough. He used his spellbinding vision to make Tamaru fall, off balance. Instead of continuing the fight though, he escaped into the woods of the Green Belt.

 

"He left!" Piruk shouted, running to help Tamaru. "Are you okay?"

 

"Yes, I am", Tamaru said. "We have learned something ever-useful, little brother. I think all of us Toa-heroes are touch-immune to the zamors."

 

"I was amazed at that", Piruk said. "Maybe it's the electricity in you?"

 

"Could be", Tamaru said, now up and recovered. "We have mapped the most important spots of the Green Belt now. Let us return to the other Toa. We have a lot to discuss with them."

 

To be continued. Please review, it's been so long. :3