Pahrak Model ZX

Sorry about that, post edited, hopefully better?

I would like to know if I may participate?Name: Exo-ZadakhWeapon: The Chaos Reaper Keyblade.Power 1: Extreme strengthPower 2: Able to use Kanoka like Kanohi (not just the basic eight, also any combination that makes a Mask power; only brings 2-3 into a battle at a time)Power 3: Extreme Nerdiness: capable of going on and on about things that no one understands or cares about, causing great confusion. (Works like a Makuta's Confusion Kraata power, just triggered verbally.)Appearance: This fella here.Special Weapons:Armor of Shinryu: Silver dragon-like armor complete with wings for flight, massively boosts Zadakh's strength, speed, and endurance. Drawbacks are that, once it is activated, it prevents him from using his Kanoka, and his Nerd powers can only be used on one target at a time. It cannot be used while using any other special weapons, and if someone grabs the tail on the armor, Zadakh will be paralyzed for approximately 3-5 seconds.Mystic Knight Gear: A small metal coin that displays a sword with four smaller swords around it. When attached to the Chaos Reaper's Keychain, it turns the Keyblade into the Mystic Reaper: the chain design on the blade turns white and extends all the way to the eye, and it allows Zadakh to use Spellblades. Basically, Zadakh can channel any Elemental Energy into his Keyblade, but this constantly drains his power while in effect, and he cannot use Light or Shadow. The charge gives a slight boost to damage output and allows it to target Elemental weaknesses, plus the charge can be released in a shockwave (at the cost of some extra power) so Zadakh finally has a long-range attack. Disappears when a transformational special weapon like Armor of Shinryu is activated.Ethereal Keyblade Generator: A small piece of metal that, when fused to the top of the Chaos Reaper's handle/base of the blade, allows Zadakh to summon multiple Keyblades of energy that can trail behind the blade, fly out as projectiles, and circle around Zadakh. They deal just as much damage as when Zadakh swings the Chaos Reaper, but each one takes up a bit of energy. When using the Mystic Knight Gear, these Ethereal Keyblades can take on Elemental properties, but this puts a bigger strain on Zadakh. Dissappears when a transformational special weapon like Armor of Shinryu is activated.Indestructible Sweater Vest: You would think that, without the sleeves, it would be less than a sweater, but it is actually more! A snazzy bronze sweater vest made of Exsidian-Protosteel alloy chain mail with an argyle design. The uniform of a nerd, redone for battle. Allows Zadakh to absorb a lot more damage, gives a slight boost to his Nerd powers, and grants him a variant of telekinesis that allows him to fly. The best part is, it’s a girl magnet! Disappears when a transformational special weapon like Armor of Shinryu is activated.Unusual Weapons:Ivory Staff of the Archmage (ISotA) - This is a long black staff with an ivory orb at the top, that staff can shoot small bolts of shadow or fireName: Exo-ZadakhWeapon: The Chaos Reaper Keyblade.Power 1: Martial artist body (super strength and endurance)Power 2: Creation and manipulation of solid energy, but can also be used as energy beams (think Green Lantern)Power 3: Supreme Otaku: Allows Zadakh to mimic the abilities of other beings, be they Bionifighters or not. The being Zadakh is mimicking must be on the field, and he must practice an ability before he has full mastery over it (although this experience is cumulative and does not reset with each round).Appearance: This fella here.Special Weapons:Inmacula Armor Lv. 1: Armor that looks like red, yellow, and orange stained glass that is styled after a legendary android. It sports claws and wings. While Zadakh wears it, his basic stats are boosted based on the stats of the Armor itself, and the Armor also gives him Elemental Glass powers, allowing him to create, control, and absorb glass, including the special glass plates that make up the armor—this allows him to slightly alter his own form for limited limb stretching and generating spikes on his body and such. The android is aware that Zadakh has this armor and may bug him about it from time to time.--Physical Offense: 2--Non-Physical Offense: 2--Physical Defense: 7--Non-Physical Defense: 7--Speed: 2Mr. Mewtwo Lv. 1: A stuffed animal that looks like some weird Japanese psychic cat monster. It’s about the same height as Zadakh and has a life of its own, enabling it to tag-team opponents alongside Zadakh. Mr. Mewtwo has incredible psychic powers, and a special ability that makes it completely undetectable by any means. Seriously, completely undetectable. Repairs itself when damaged, may argue with Zadakh just like Chaos Reaper does.--Physical Offense: 0--Non-Physical Offense: 9--Physical Defense: 4--Non-Physical Defense: 4--Speed: 3Armada Gear Lv. 1: A small piece of green metal with a blue emblem. When it is attached to the Keychain of the Chaos Reaper, it gives it the ability to quite literally cut through anything. For fairness, any armor, weapon, or shield that it cuts will regenerate shortly afterwards…unless you make fun of Zadakh for liking Transformers Armada. No regen for you, you inconsiderate…person. Also has Powerlinx capabilities, giving an all-around boost to Zadakh’s stats.--Physical Offense: 12--Non-Physical Offense: 2--Physical Defense: 2--Non-Physical Defense: 2--Speed: 2

These MoCs are all based on various versions of my Bionicle avatar, some old, some new. Enjoy!ZMoC-00: Exo-Zadakh (Version 3):A human spirited away from his home world and turned into a Bionicle. After arriving in a world where various other worlds intersect, he met with the world's Guardian Angel, was given a Keyblade, and asked to save this strange world in exchange for being returned home.Exo-Zadakh with KeybladeExo-Zadakh with Zephyr FangsVariety Wielding!CHOCOBO RIDING!ZMoC-07: Hapori Zadakh:(Yes, Hapori as in Hapori Tohu. And yes, he's not a very original design...) A super-powered version of Exo-Zadakh; this version is presumably related to the ZMoC-00 version of Exo-Zadakh. Wields "Siphon Fangs", upgraded Zephyr Fangs capable of draining the target's energy and then focusing it into energy blasts."I am...HAPORI Zadakh!!""Oh, for the love of...""Peace!"Exo-Zadakh and Hapori Zadakh GalleryZMoC-08: Exo-Pahrak:A Bohrok Pahrak upgraded with pieces from Exo-Toa. Retains the powers of its standard brethren, capable of prodcing an electro-rocket launcher, possesses a technique known as "Clean it All" that focuses all of its power into one blast. Also in possession of the "Kinship" program, making it more powerful when more Bohrok are nearby."It must be cleaned...""Obstacle detected."Wait, Pohatu...?ZMoC-09: Exo-Pahrak Kal Titan:One of the mysterious "King Bohrok" we have heard whispers of; sometimes referred to as "the King of Pahrak." According to legends, he is monstrously powerful, with strength that puts the Bahrag's power to shame. Does not have legs--hovers above the ground. Has powers over Stone and Plasma, which can be focused through the upper barrel of his weapon arm--the lower barrel is his "Sterling Silver Cannon," which fires bolts of intense light. Capable of creating a localized vacuum in his hand for drawing in opponents; armor has generators that produce small metal particles that, when drawn into this vacuum, are transformed into the "Vacuum Metal Saber." Possesses the "Nuva Symbol Fall-Back" program, which sacrifices defensive power and converts it into offensive power when in critical condition. His ultimate attack is a massive inferno of energy called "Bahrag's Reign," which overloads his systems and causes him to enter stasis.The King of PahrakWith Vacuum Metal Saber, in display stand"So, the King of Tahnok sent you to spy on me..."Exo-Pahrak and Exo-Pahrak Kal Titan Gallery

Thank you all for the feedback!I'll modify the limbs and color scheme for the next model, probably using some HF 2.0+ pieces. I'll also try a new blaster, possibly the with 4.0 Meteor Blasters as a base design...As for the issue with the neck, I'm not entirely sure how best to do that, but I'm thinking using a different torso will be the first method I try. Of course, that might make it difficult for the Metru Matoran body to work quite as well...I'll think of something, or maybe replace it with something...we'll see.Time to start on Vapor 3.0...

I'm a little busy right now, but when I get some more work done I'll check it out.

Well, I never really got a specific description from Lexero...I'm thinking some humanoid with sharp teeth, claws, maybe wings, more than two eyes...probably some weird skin color--purple is my first thought, since he's Rahaga. Maybe some fur or scales...

In his unique Bionicle form? I believe he's supposed to be a Toa Inika with heavy, platinum-colored armor, a cape, and a Kadin.

Ladies (wait, women don't read my stories...) and gentlemen, I present to you...Bioni-Lords Book 3: Kako Preview 1! This gives us a glimpse at a handful of the main characters--the ones you expect (Genakex, Xyla, and Kytan), along with a new face: Tahra Vakar! Tahra is the daughter of a retired Fire-Lord, and will join the group when they're about to leave Ta-Isle. As you'd expect, she's a Fire specialist, and yes, she does have a bit of a temper. I thought Tahra might give us a new perspective on sexism in the Bioni-Lords world: a female heir to a male Element. We've mentioned Rikka trying to become Ice-Lord and the possibility of Twani being Earth-Lord, but we never looked at how anyone might react to that. So the question will be, even though she's the daughter of a Fire-Lord, is Tahra's claim to the title of Fire-Lord illigitimate because Fire is a male Element? Also, I've posted a new MoC: Vapor 2.0! In case you're wondering why he's labeled "ZMoC-12," it's because I recently decided to start giving numbers to my new MoCs as a way of keeping them organized, and Vapor 2.0 is the thirteenth MoC made since I started this system. (There's a ZMoC-00.) I'm hoping to post the rest of the ZMoCs soon, and I'll put the links right here! (Well, actually, the BionicleKeyblade MoC in the Sekai Review Topic is ZMoC-03, so I won't be reposting that.) No new progress on Forgotten Bond, but there is news on the new Spirit Index! The new Index has been entirely re-color-coded, and I've also extended the list to 1331! However...I have just under 40 Spirits that others have submitted to me, and I want to get them online before I provide the link to the new Index. I'll be as quick as I can, but I have some school projects I need to work on right now. The semester's just about over, so I should be able to get back to work about mid next week. On the topic of websites, Exo's Desk V2 has been updated! On the front page, along with a list of updates, is a list of updates I hope to make in the future--probably before Book 3 starts, but I want to finish Forgotten Bond and the new Index before I get to these. Also, I'm working on a Christmas Special! No, this won't be a Bioni-Lords story, although Stained Glass Inmacula makes an appearance and Khadaz is mentioned. The main characters will be Exo-Zadakh (in the style of his ZMoC-00 version, which will be up soon), Guts Style Pahrak, and Exo-Panrahk, and they will be doing their best to remind people what Christmas is actually about...but as you can imagine, that's not likely. Once I get done with these projects, I should be able to get a load of content up during December! Kako Previews, ZMoCs, website updates, a Christmas Special, and Forgotten Bond typing (although it probably won't be posted until January)! I'm looking forward to it, and I hope you are too! Merry Christmas! Yes, Merry Christmas. NOT "Happy Holidays", unless it means "Merry Christmas and Happy New Year." If you celebrate something else, then I hope you enjoy that and I'm not trying to offend you. Apparently, I need to make that distinction. *Glares at Political Correctness* EDIT: OH, I almost forgot! We still have one guest star slot available for Kako, but it does have some restrictions. If you're interested, please contact me for more information! EDIT AGAIN: Wait, I've just been contacted, so it looks like that slot might get filled! EDIT YET AGAIN: Yes, that slot has been filled! That's all the guest stars!

(Now that Book 2 is over, I thought you guys might want a look at Book 3. As with all previews, the contents are subject to change when the actual Book is written, and this may contain spoilers. Feel free to ask questions, but I may keep some things under wraps for a bit longer.) BIONI-LORDS BOOK 3: KAKO PREVIEW 1 “Here you go,” Ackahu said, holding out a bag. “50 Widgets and one Fire Ultima-Orb.”Tahra took the bag and said, “Once I’m qualified, I’ll come back here and beat you again. Enjoy being Fire-Lord while you can.”Ackahu smirked and walked off, and Tahra admired her Ultima-Orb and said, “Huh, it does shine a little more when it’s the one you’ve earned…”She noticed the other children approaching, and Kytan said, “That was quite the battle! You are extremely skilled.”“Thanks…who’re you?” Tahra replied.“Oh, my apologies,” Kytan said. “I am Kytan Ikhav. This is my younger brother, Genakex, and our friend, Xyla Pahrop.”“Ikhav, huh?” Tahra said. “Well, I’m Tahra. Tahra Vakar.”“Vakar…” Xyla repeated. “Wait, are you Takama’s daughter?”“Who?” Genakex asked.“The Third Fire-Lord,” Kytan answered. “He retired not long ago due to illness.”“Yeah, that’s my dad,” Tahra said. “He’s doing better, so I’m finally starting my quest. Thanks for your concern.”“Would that make you next in line to be Fire-Lord?” Genakex asked. “Er, wait…Ackahu is the Fourth Fire-Lord…”“You need to be 17 years old and Level 14 to be an Element-Lord, moron,” Xyla said.“Yeah…so that loser Ackahu gets to be Fourth Fire-Lord,” Tahra said. “But I’m still going to pursue my birthright. Once I become Level 14, I’m going to train everyday until I turn 17, and then I’m going to beat Ackahu to a bloody pulp and become Fifth Fire-Lord.”“So…you can do that?” Genakex asked. “I mean, Fire is generally a male Element—“Genakex was interrupted when Tahra grabbed him by the collar, got in his face, and said, “Do you have a problem with a female Fire-Lord? Because if so, I can give you a special demonstration of just how good I am at burning things.”“I…uh…no…I didn’t…” Genakex stammered.“He didn’t mean to offend you, I’m sure,” Kytan said. “Genakex just isn’t good with words sometimes.”“Y-yeah!” Genakex said. “I-I’m sure you’ll make a great F-Fire-Lord!”“I think you should burn him anyway,” Xyla whispered to Tahra.Tahra glared at Genakex a little longer, but then she backed off and said, “I think you still need a little more proof. I’m going to travel with you guys. Seeing me in action should incinerate every last bit of doubt.”“It will be a pleasure to have you,” Kytan said, bowing.“It will?” Genakex said with a bewildered look. “I mean, uh, it will! Yeah! Welcome to the group!”“I think we’ll get along just fine, Tahra,” Xyla said, smiling, “if only for our mutual hatred of Genakex.” Complete the cycle. Coming soon.

ZMoC-12: Vapor 2.0The assassin "Vapor" was defeated by Duncan Bulk during the Von Nebula incident, but managed to escape capture. After the Quatros incident, he reappeared to ambush Bulk and revealed a new, upgraded form. This new form, dubbed "Vapor 2.0," features a new mist sphere blaster with much higher power than his previous weapons, a blade that can release corrosive mist to enhance its cutting ability, and vents throughout the armor that allow mist to be released at any second, providing Vapor with an instant smokescreen. Furno has been sent to assist Bulk by testing the new Chimera Program, allowing Furno and Bulk to combine their bodies into one Hero, but even this may not be enough...[large file size linked]Yeah, I use a slightly altered HF story. Anyway, I was disappointed that Vapor was ignored and felt he had potential, so I made up some background and rebuilt him. Course, I'm not the best MoCist...so feedback would be GREATLY appreciated! Then I can use that feedback to create a Vapor 3.0...The Vapor 2.0 Brickshelf Gallery.

"My name is Kytan Ikhav...and this is the story of how I became the 10th Level Bioni-Lord." 20 years before Khadaz's quest, the Ikhav Trilogy both begins...and concludes. "She was killed...for no reason at all, she was killed! And there's NOTHING I can do about it!!" The tale of the previous generation is one of heartbreak and fractured brotherhood. "I WILL have my revenge, whether you help me or not. Stay out of my way, Genakex...or I won't hesitate to kill you." Learn the reason for Kytan's madness. See the cause of the misery he sought to share with the world. "Anything to get her back. I'll commit genocide against every living species before I give up." Bioni-Lords Book 3: Kako "Just one more time...I wanted us all to be together." Complete the cycle. Coming Soon Tentative Preview Schedule: (Subject to change) Preview 1--December 2nd Preview 2--December 9th Preview 3--December 16th Preview 4--December 23rd Possible Preview 5--December 30th If the schedule should change, I'll make a blog post informing everyone. An update on the new Spirit Index--it's complete through #1000, so it'll hopefully be done relatively soon. After that, we have some new Spirits to add! I might make another blog post or two about Kako info before the Book begins. I'd like to properly introduce a few characters in addition to showing them in Previews, and I might want to make some hints about the King Bohrok who are involved in Kako's plot... On an unrelated note, BIONICLE: The Forgotten Bond is about 70% typed! I may have to put off typing more until this semester is over, but I should have a release date soon enough. Keep your eyes open in January! Happy Thanksgiving!

...I hadn't thought of that...but now, the idea's in my head...MWA-HA-HA...*Ahem* Well, it won't happen in the main timeline, at least--I was thinking someone else might use the Demon Twayblade. But I do wish to experiment with alternate timelines later on...I'm very glad you enjoyed the chapters! I'm also very glad I can still surprise you guys with plot twists! Plot twists are more difficult in prequels like Kako...

Glad you liked the chapters! It probably won't be too long until Book 3, since, from my point of view, Sekai has been done since late June...but I still want to space the previews and whatnot, so it'll probably be out in early 2012. As I'm sure you've inferred, Kytan will be a main character in Book 3 alongside Genakex and Xyla, but there will be a few more...I have two open guest star slots for anyone who might be interested, but mind that these slots are more restricted than past guest star slots. Contact me for details if you are interested.

EpilogueKonpaku walked through Darkhadaz’s library and over to a bookshelf, grabbing and removing the mysteriously sealed book. “Finally found it,” Konpaku said, setting the book down on the table. “Gosh, took me FOREVER to find it in this maze. What was up with Dark-moron? Why do you need this many books? Ah, whatever…”He cracked his knuckles and said, “Okay, crack this baby open, then it’s to the banquet hall. Drink from the Chalice of a dead Knight, get their power…too easy.”A bolt of electricity streamed from Konpaku’s hands to the book, and after a few seconds the book flew open and light filled the room. Konpaku looked on the floor and smiled—a human body lay there, covered in white armor and clutching a longsword. With a grin and a sickly glow, Konpaku said, “Oh, it has been TOO long! Not a fan of the body, but it’ll be SO worth it to get that power back!”As Konpaku’s plan came to fruition, a figure walked through the lower halls of the castle towards the banquet hall. This was a Bioni-Spirit, a Shadow Apprentice, but it was no mere Spirit. If you look hard enough, you can usually find at least one of each kind of Spirit that is sentient by some fluke, and this Apprentice was one of those rare few. He had stumbled upon the castle ages ago and met Shadow Knight, who had secretly taken him in and trained him as his Squire, and now that the Knight was dead, the Apprentice had one more order to fulfill.The First Squire took the First Knight’s Chalice of Malice and poured some water into it, and as Shadow Apprentice drank, his armor started to change…Khadaz, Norscu, and Kytan sat around a small, circular table with a tape recorder at the center. In reality, Kytan Ikhav, the 10th Level Bioni-Lord, was the brother of Genakex Ikhav, thus making him Khadaz’s uncle. Needless to say, Khadaz was surprised. Norscu verified Kytan’s words and suggested that Khadaz hear the full story, and Khadaz agreed but recommended that they record the tale so that the others could hear it later. Khadaz and Norscu settled in, nodded, and hit the record button, and then they both looked to Kytan.Kytan took a deep breath and sighed, and then he said, “My name is Kytan Ikhav…and this is the story of how I became the 10th Level Bioni-Lord.” TO BE CONTINUED Message From the Author:IT’S DONE!! IT’S FINALLY DONE!! WOOOO!! Ahem…don’t get me wrong, there were times I loved Sekai, but there was so much stuff to jam into it! I’m relieved that Sekai is complete and I can move on with the Bioni-Lords Saga, because I’m afraid I might have to ‘grow up’ soon…ugh…hopefully I’ll still have time to write. Anyway, I’d like to thank everyone who has enjoyed and contributed to Bioni-Lords over the years, and I would like to apologize for being such an amateur. I know I’m not the best writer, but I’ll continue doing my best to improve and make this series as enjoyable as possible. Thanks for sticking with me, and I hope to see you further down the road! Book 3 is next, and I’m going to try to keep this one small…for a Bioni-Lords Book, at least. Also, be sure to check my blog this time next week for the first Book 3 teaser! Thanks again!--Pahrak; also known as Zadakh; also known as ‘The Man of Many Pseudonyms’…well, that last one hasn’t quite caught on yet…Sekai Prologue posted March 20, 2009Sekai Epilogue written June 22, 2011Sekai Epilogue posted November 15, 2011Pages used in Sekai*: 957Total pages, Books 1+2*: 1,473(*Page counts do not include ‘Special Chapters’ or short stories)Review

Sealing Gahu-Shadow inside a Twayblade does leave a loose plot point, heheh...Well, 164 is now up, so the madenning begins! Tomorrow I hope to post the Epilogue, which is very brief, but hopefully will get you excited for future Books. It'll also come packaged with a Message From the Author and some stats, like with the last chapter of Book 1, and will have a reminder about the first Book 3 teaser.

Chapter 164: Closing StatementsCorinwood sat down at his desk and sighed, and Kohena said, “It’s all over…so we need to get right back to work.”“Right,” Corinwood said. “Let’s see…all four surviving Makuta have been locked up, and we’ve also captured some of the Shade-Gang’s top Commanders, plus three Squires. Glad Stark was able to transport the prisoners out before things got rough.”“I’m beginning to have second thoughts about keeping Kikanalo in jail,” Toatoa said. “Barometz, too. They seem genuinely sorry.”“They still need to pay for their actions,” Kohena said. “But they’ll be up for parole soon enough…the same would have gone for Krika, if he were alive.”“…He did a noble thing,” Toatoa said. “…Hey, I don’t mean to bug you, but—““Oh, yes, the Zodiakai,” Corinwood said. “Ah…round up a team and go capture one of the Zodiakai: Void. We’ll examine it and see if we can find a way to undo Darkaea’s corruption.”Toatoa nodded and left, and Kohena said, “Speaking of Darkaea, there’s absolutely no trace of him. Union got away too…and we still don’t know who made Stained Glass.”“We’ll interrogate the Shade-Gangsters and see what they know,” Corinwood said. “Should be easy, with Kikanalo cooperating. In the mean time, put together a search party and look for Union and Darkaea. I’d recommend taking Aviak—letting him try out ATLAS Moratorium might shut him up for a while.”Kohena chuckled as he walked out the door, and Corinwood sighed and began going through paperwork. Meanwhile, Barometz sat quietly in his cell, and upon hearing footsteps he looked up. Dranes came into view and said, “Hey Baro, how’s it going?”“…I’ve had worse days,” Barometz replied. “So? Did the data help?”“It did,” Dranes said. “Azara and Marigold were able to revive them.”Myrica stepped into view, and Barometz said, “Myrica…I’m so glad you’re alright.”“Of course I’m alright,” Myrica said. “It takes a lot to break me, you know.”Dranes headed down the hall and into another room where the other Devil Squad members waited, and Azara slapped him on the back and greeted, “Hello, Dranes-chan! Feeling better yet?”“Still a little sore,” Dranes said. He looked over to Kadsura, who was having a conversation with Pyrami, and asked, “Is Kadsura…?”“I think she’ll be fine,” Azara said. “Pyrami immediately bonded with her. Kadsura will have a little sister to take care of now…that should really help her.”“It’s all because you gave Pyrami a chance,” Dranes said. “Good job, sempai.”“You know, you don’t have to keep calling me sempai,” Azara said. “It’s getting annoying, actually.”She leaned in and kissed Dranes, and Lathyrus called, “Hey, Azara, we’re still here!”“Oh…right,” Azara chuckled.The doors opened and the Paladins walked in, and Dranes said, “Oh…listen, I’m sorry about what happened in the battle.”“Not a problem,” Rhumora said. “You were not in control of yourself.”“Yeah, don’t worry about it,” Daphne said. “My frustration is directed at this cast…two months, they said! I would think modern technology could heal my arm faster than that!”“Reckless,” Pyrami said.“…Yeah, whatever…” Daphne murmured. “So, what are you guys going to do now? The charges against you have all been dropped, so…”“…That’s a good question,” Nigella said. “We don’t really have a home anymore…”“You can stay with me,” Sakura said. “There’s plenty of room at my house.”“Won’t you be busy?” Kerria asked.“No…I’m leaving the Light Force,” Sakura said. “My goal was to save you guys. I’ll be going back home now.”“I’m heading home too,” Azara said. “I’ve got a lot of explaining to do…”“I guess I’ll go back…but once my arm’s healed, I’m going to keep working with the Light Force,” Daphne said. “What about you, Rhumora?”“I’ll be staying here,” Rhumora said. “Speaking of which, I have business to attend to.”She left the room, passing Marigold on the way, and Marigold asked, “How are the zombies doing?”“Just fine,” Rhumora said.“Glad to hear it,” Marigold said, and then she continued walking. She soon reached her lab, but before she went in she noticed Keizah standing nearby.“…Can I help you?” Marigold asked.“You remind me of someone I knew,” Keizah said. “I wanted to be sure…you’re not Nuvallia, are you?”“…The name’s Marigold,” Marigold replied. “Never heard of your friend.”“…I see,” Keizah said. “Then I guess she really is dead.”“…You never know,” Marigold said, shrugging. “We thought Azara’s friends were dead, and look how that turned out.”“…Right,” Keizah said. “…Well, that’s all I needed to now. I’ll be on my way.”Keizah left and Marigold entered her lab, and she looked over to see Aviak waiting there. “What an odd note to end a conversation on,” Aviak said.“They have to believe that Nuvallia Eigi is dead,” Marigold said.“Do they really?” Aviak asked.Marigold looked him in the eye and said, “I will smash ATLAS to pieces unless you let this die.”“Yes ma’am,” Aviak said.Zev limped across the room and laughed, “Bwa-ha-ha-ha! I am healed! Now, to complete my quest!”Lilynette grabbed Zev and said, “Hey! You’re not healed yet! Don’t go doing anything stupid!”“He can’t help it,” Stark said. “It’s genetic!”“Bro! How could you!” Zev cried.“Hey! You’re still in a hospital room!” Neb called from his bed. “Some of us are trying to recover from almost being blown up!”Outside in the hall, Neya sighed, “Gosh, you can hear them from here…”“I think it’s part of their charm” Catalina said.“Hm,” Neya mumbled. “…So, did you decide what to do with Queen of Blades?”“I can still hear just fine,” Queen said.“Hey, pipe down and let them talk,” Metadon said.“Don’t order me around, Guardian!” Queen spat.“Stand down, Vassal!” Metadon said.“Look at that: you’ve found someone to bicker with besides me,” Cuerveracios said.The Spirits continued squabbling, and Catalina said, “Anyway…I think I’m going to hang on to her for now. Having more than one Bioni-Spirit sounds like a good idea, and I think she’ll settle down once she realizes it’s this or imprisonment.”“Good point,” Neya said. “Something else…Darkaea’s gone, so…will you be staying here, or going home?”Catalina paused for a moment, and then she said, “I think I’ll spend some time in Spain right now…I miss home.”“I see…you’ll be coming back to visit, right?” Neya asked.“Well that depends,” Catalina said. “Are you asking me to come back?”“…Yes,” Neya said. “I would really like to see you again.”“Then I’ll come visit,” Catalina said, smiling.Selina walked up and said, “Well guys, I’m leaving. See you around.”Neya and Catalina said good-bye and Selina left, but on her way out she passed Aile. “Yo!” Aile said. “Thanks again for holding onto my power. It was a big help!”“Yeah…I wanted to talk to you about that,” Selina said. “When I took your Aura, I saw something…a vision.”Aile paused, and then she got a serious look and asked, “What did you see?”“I’m not sure exactly,” Selina said. “There was some looming presence…an evil like nothing I’ve ever felt before. Then…pain, and suffering…warfare on an untold scale…it was…”“Selina, snap out of it!” Kyoko said. “Aile, can you please explain this?”“…You weren’t supposed to see that,” Aile said. “I’m not kidding when I tell people I’m clairvoyant. It all started about a century ago…with that exact same vision.”“But what does it mean?” Selina asked.“I’m not entirely sure, to be honest,” Aile said. “All I know is that it’s going to happen. We have a decade, maybe more.”“Is there anything we can do?” Selina asked.“I get a feeling every now and then that tells me things that should help,” Aile said. “Why else would I let everyone fight Gahu-Shadow, futile as it was, when I could have taken him down on my own? It’ll motivate everyone to get stronger, so that we’ll stand a chance in this war.”Selina looked down, and Aile said, “Ah, don’t worry. These things always work out! Go home, get some rest…start training in your spare time. The key is not to let the worry consume you. If you need some help, give me a call.”Aile continued down the hall, and she said, “You were eavesdropping.”Rien walked up alongside her and said, “I already knew you were clairvoyant, so I don’t see why you’re upset.”“Rien, you haven’t seen me upset,” Aile said. “Ask Norscu—he’ll give you a vivid account.”Rien laughed, and a few seconds later she whispered, “I was thinking…about Vicax’s treaty with the Dark Knights and the Shade-Gang…”“I thought I told you…recommended…that you let that go?” Aile said.“It just doesn’t sit well with me,” Rien said, “all shady and under the table…”“He was just trying to keep his island safe,” Aile said. “Look, Vicax gives me the creeps sometimes, but I truly think he was trying to do the right thing. Norscu told you this job wasn’t always easy.”“…He also said you give good advice,” Rien said. “Fine, I’ll let it go.”“Good,” Aile said. “So did you decide what we’re doing with the Enterprise?”“I’m thinking of turning it over to the Light Force,” Rien answered. “They might learn something from studying it. I’m also going to have Lhikahu, Mataka, and Phantau check out the bases of Les Douze Ombres, now that they’ve been relieved of Acting Element-Lord duty.”“Maybe you should send Tonnira with them,” Aile grumbled.“…You really miss Zempyst, don’t you?” Rien said.“Keelie really jolted my memories of Sparky,” Aile said. “…Well, the Retcon is wearing off, so I’ll be able to talk about her soon. By the way, have Vastazon and Cerveau contacted you yet?”“They have,” Rien said. “They’re prepared to resume their duties as Jungle-Lord and Psionics-Lord once the Retcon fully wears off. Hey, I’ve got something to take care of, so—““I get it,” Aile said. “See you around.”Outside the hospital, Khadaz, Zenrei, and Toatoa stood in silence, with Nikari’s Blade resting against the wall. “…Okay,” Toatoa said, “our Gathering is complete. What disaster are we looking for?”“Aile seems quite confident that Gahu-Shadow was not the disaster,” Zenrei said. “But if I may say, we did not fare well against him…and we can expect this disaster to be worse.”“Should I put them on your training program?” Nikari asked.Khadaz rolled his eyes and said, “We’ve just got to get training. The disaster’s coming whether we’re ready or not, so we’d better be ready.”“A simple analysis…but a good one,” Kotoba said.“Attacking the Zodiakai: Void should help boost our strength…” Xotaku said.“We can help, if you want,” Vinxeng offered.“No, we’ll keep it within the Light Force,” Xotaku said. “Speaking of which, we should be going.”Toatoa waved and headed off, and Khadaz dismissed Nikari and said, “Guess that’s that.”“Indeed,” Zenrei said. “This discussion accomplished quite a lot.”“Sometimes you don’t need to beat things to death,” Khadaz said. “We don’t have much to go on, so we can’t decide on much.”“…I suppose,” Zenrei said. She left next and Khadaz went off in a different direction, and he found Amy waiting for him and smiled.“No great revelations, but we have something similar to a plan,” Khadaz said.“Just take it easy for a while, okay?” Amy said. “We were so worried when Gahu-Shadow said he killed you…”“Alright, I’ll take some time off,” Khadaz said. “Hey, where’s Kharuun?”“With Hyohana,” someone said. A man with white hair walked up and said, “Hello…I’m Gahu-Ice. I’d like to apologize that I and the other Gahu didn’t help you fight Gahu-Shadow; he claimed to have a way to drain our power, and we didn’t want him getting any stronger.”“Understandable,” Khadaz said. “No hard feelings—it all worked out.”“Thank you,” Gahu-Ice said. “Also, I’m not sure if you’re aware…Hyohana is my daughter.”There was a pause, but then Amy said, “Really? Well she’s a wonderful girl. She was very polite, and a big help.”“So…” Khadaz said. “She…”“It’s confusing, I know,” Gahu-Ice said. “Her unique genes have been a problem for her, but Kharuun has helped her through the worst of it, and she’s taken quite a liking to him.”“I could tell,” Amy said. “They make a cute couple.”“And they’re both powerful as heck,” Khadaz said.“Of course that’s what you’d say,” Yume said as she approached. “Gahu-Ice, I just wanted to remind you that our deal is complete. Don’t expect to see me again any time soon.”“Of course,” Gahu-Ice said. “Thank you for your help.”“Yume…I’m just curious: is there anything you can tell us?” Amy asked. “We know so little about you. It’s sort of…unsettling.”“You’ll find out one day,” Yume said. “In the very, very distant future, that is.”Meanwhile, Kharuun and Hyohana sat by the coastline of Mutant-Isle, and Kharuun said, “I guess things go back to normal now. Will you be going back to Ko-Isle?”“Briefly,” Hyohana said. “I want to check on my mother’s memorial now that Gaizenji has paid for his crimes…but after that, I think I’d like to move to the Mainland.”“That’d be nice,” Kharuun said. “I was worried I might not get to see you that much.”“…You know, you still haven’t kissed me,” Hyohana said. “First Icarax interrupted us, and then there was that incident on the Enterprise…”“Oh…that’s right,” Kharuun said. “Well…we could fix that.”Hyohana leaned in and said, “That’d be nice.”Kharuun smiled and leaned in, and as the sun set over the ocean, Kharuun and Hyohana shared their first kiss. THE END … …Actually… Khadaz sat down in the Battlefield and said, “Okay, Norscu, why’d you call me here?”“Well…you’re not going to like it, but promise you’ll hear me out,” Norscu said.“…That’s never a good way to start a conversation…” Khadaz said. “Alright, I promise I’ll hear you out.”Norscu took a deep breath, and then he said, “Everyone thought that the 10th Level Bioni-Lord died after the Mountain of Death collapsed…he didn’t. The 10th retreated to the Lost Continent to think of what to do next.”“…So he’s been ‘thinking’ for over 26 years?” Khadaz asked.“Believe me, he had a lot to think about,” Norscu said. “He got used to life there and figured he’d just lay low…but then he heard about the Twilight Sage’s appearance in Italy.”Khadaz thought for a moment, and then he said, “Why do you know all these details?”A chill crept up Khadaz’s spine, and he turned around as a voice answered, “Because I told him.”The man standing before Khadaz had pale skin and casual clothes on, and he had shoulder-length gray hair and a thin beard. Khadaz had no doubt as he looked into the stranger’s blood-red eyes…this was the 10th Level Bioni-Lord.Instantly standing up, Khadaz said, “What are you doing here?!”“Calm down,” Norscu said. “You promised to hear me out.”Khadaz gave no reply, never looking away from the 10th, and Norscu said, “When he heard you were in Italy, he began to give more thought to his decision. He came back because he wants to finally set things right.”Khadaz gave some thought to it, and then he said, “Everyone deserves a chance…so, should we keep calling you ‘the 10th’, or do you have a name?”“…That’s another shock you should brace for,” the 10th said. “My name is Kytan…Kytan Ikhav.”Review

Chapter 163 is up, and the battle is decided. Tomorrow we'll add a few finishing touches with 164...and I'll warn you now: if you want closure, stop where 164 says "THE END." The bit after that and the Epilogue are set-up for Books 3 and 4 and could possibly drive you mad-ish.

Chapter 163: Facing Demons 3 (The Demon’s Twilight)“Thanks for rounding them up and putting Dranes to sleep,” Aile said. “Burning Naraku really wore Gahu-Shadow down, and that Tezuka Punch took a whole lot out of him.”“I trust things are proceeding as you have foreseen?” Yume said.“Yep,” Aile said. “Now it’s up to the Twilight Guardians to take out the last big chunk of Gahu-Shadow’s stamina.”Neya readied his Twayblades and said, “We should try to surround him. Sonic, get behind him and back us up if we’re in trouble.”Sonic nodded and disappeared, and then Neya and Catalina each charged at Gahu-Shadow from different sides. Gahu-Shadow parried a Twayblade, blocked a hammer, and extended his Dragon Demon Wings, but then Sonic flew out and tackled him in the back, allowing Neya to knock him into a Blade Storm with Dragon Tackle. Neya attached a Twilight Tetrawhip to his Twayblades, his Moon Scimitar, and a Wind Scythe, and then quickly spun them around to create an orb of death around him. Gahu-Shadow backed away and blocked a Homing Attack, but then Catalina knocked him into Neya’s onslaught and added to it with a barrage of Shards. Once there was an opening, Gahu-Shadow broke free and blasted Neya, and Sonic used Spin Dash but Gahu-Shadow punched and knocked him into Catalina. Gahu-Shadow moved in but was struck with Gaia Thunder, and Neya used a Crystal Enerbeam to freeze the Demon so Sonic could unleash a Chaotic Blast. Gahu-Shadow broke free and aimed a blast, but Catalina swung both hammers down on his head and sent him crashing into the ground.“I’d say we’re doing pretty well,” Catalina said.“Hey, being cocky is my thing,” Sonic said.Gahu-Shadow then shot up and punched Sonic, slashing Catalina at the same time, and then he blasted Neya with shadows and moved to a new location. Sonic flew in and tackled Gahu-Shadow, an attack that was blocked, but then he bounced off, circled around, and tackled again, this time catching his target off-guard. Gahu-Shadow swung but Neya blocked him, and a Light Ascender pierced his wing before he could pull back. Catalina stabbed Gahu-Shadow with Rock-Splitting Blades while Neya battered him with Draco Waves, and Gahu-Shadow repelled them with a Shadow burst but Sonic used Aerial Dive to tackle him. The Guardians all moved in, but Gahu-Shadow swung the Moon Blade and released a wave of darkness that sent them all reeling.“Why do you fools continue your futile struggle?” Gahu-Shadow asked. “There is no way beings of your level can hope to prevail against me, even if I am worn down.”“We won’t know until we try,” Neya said. “Besides, eliminating your threat is something worth fighting for…dying for, if necessary.”“Then you will die,” Gahu-Shadow said.He warped in front of Neya and prepared to blow a hole in his chest, but Neya already had an Astral Dragon ready. The arrow knocked Gahu-Shadow back and stunned him, and Sonic used a quick Chaotic Blast before Catalina blasted the Demon with a torrent of Steel, Thunder, Dragon, and Rahaga energy. Gahu-Shadow tried getting up but Neya stabbed him with a Moon Scimitar, and Neya used Gust Ripple to blow him into Catalina’s range, where the Demon was hit with a Dragon Tide. Neya activated Seven Rings in Hand, but suddenly Gahu-Shadow warped over and slashed him, leaving him with a debilitating wound.Sonic quickly used Spin Dash to knock Gahu-Shadow away, and Catalina went over to Neya and asked, “Are you alright?”“Fine…just fine,” Neya said. “Get back in the battle…keep wearing him down…”Catalina nodded and charged at Gahu-Shadow, who was exchanging blows with Sonic, and smashed him with both hammers while he was distracted. Gahu-Shadow swung the Moon Blade, but Catalina blocked and Sonic used Homing Attack, but Gahu-Shadow caught him with Dragon Demon Wings and endured a hammer strike. Sonic was thrown to the ground and Gahu-Shadow went after Catalina, who dodged and blocked several attacks before kicking Gahu-Shadow back. Catalina charged her hammers with energy and prepared to attack, but then Sonic appeared in front of her and motioned for her to stop.“Not finished yet?” Gahu-Shadow asked.“Just about,” Sonic said. “So I guess it’s time I used my desperation attack.”Sonic’s glow grew brighter, and Gahu-Shadow moved to interrupt but was stopped by an Astral Dragon. Neya smiled and finally passed out, and Sonic reared back and shouted, “Master Control!”Energy swirled around Gahu-Shadow, locking him in place, and then it constricted around him and Sonic shot out, cutting past Gahu-Shadow hundreds of times before finally delivering a punch that caused the restrictive energy to explode. Sonic lost consciousness and fell, but Catalina caught him and gently set him on the ground.“Guess the rest is up to us,” Metadon said.Gahu-Shadow got to his feet and stumbled about, and he coughed a bit before saying, “Blasted meddling ‘heroes’…why can’t you just walk away?!”Catalina blocked Gahu-Shadow, kneed him in the stomach, and smacked him down before saying, “You haven’t given up either, so you probably know the reason. We’re determined to keep fighting for what we want, and what we want is your defeat. We’ll do everything within your power to achieve that goal, just like you’ll do everything in your power to achieve world domination.”“…Well…my power exceeds yours,” Gahu-Shadow said.Shadows burst out of the ground, knocking Catalina skyward, and then Gahu-Shadow slashed her, attacked with his wings, and threw her into the ground. Gahu-Shadow dove and swung his sword again, slicing Catalina’s shoulder, but as the girl was knocked out the Demon noticed the Dragonshard stuck in his armor. With a grunt of pain Gahu-Shadow ripped out the shard, and then he turned to Aile and sighed.“Where is Corruption’s doll?” the Demon asked.“Yume got her to a safe place,” Aile said. “Didn’t want her getting killed, especially since that would make you more powerful.”“…Fine—I don’t need her power anyway!” Gahu-Shadow said. “You are the only one left in a position to defy me! Once I’m done with you—““Actually,” Aile interrupted, “I’m not the only one left. There’s still ONE more warrior who’s going to lend me a hand.”Aile pointed behind Gahu-Shadow, and the Demon turned to look…and his eyes instantly widened in shock. He stepped back and said, “No…I killed you! There’s no way you could have survived! It’s impossible!”“Heh…don’t know if you’ve realized this, but we Ikhav pull off the impossible all the time,” Khadaz said. “But I think you already know. You saw me surpass Shadow Knight, even with his ultimate weapon, and knew that I get stronger while fighting…you knew I posed a threat, so you tried to kill me. You almost succeeded, but thankfully, I was holding Nikari’s Blade of Souls, which gives me the power of Obscura. You’re familiar with Obscura’s effect, right? Rehabilitate?”“…How could I have overlooked that…” Gahu-Shadow muttered.“Don’t beat yourself up,” Aile said. “Let us do it for you.”Aile activated Master’s Aura and used Spirit of Dragon, battering the Demon with her sword, and then Khadaz used Twilight Chains to pull him in and hit him over the head with the Exo-Keyblade. Gahu-Shadow extended his wings, but his foes each grabbed one and severed it, and before he could recover they both punched him and released energy bursts at the same time. When he recovered, Gahu-Shadow sent out an enormous wall of Shadow, but Khadaz used his own power to hold it off so Aile could dispel it with one swing of the Dragonblade. Gahu-Shadow slashed Aile with the Moon Blade, and Khadaz jumped in and punched, unleashing a miniature Twilight Crash on impact that drove Gahu-Shadow several feet into the ground.“I will not be beaten…not when I’m so close!” Gahu-Shadow shouted.He leapt into the sky, but Aile used Growl to put him to sleep and Khadaz impaled him with a hundred Twilight weapons. Aile used Dragoneye to hold Gahu-Shadow while Khadaz hurled Twilight Meteors at him, but Gahu-Shadow soon broke free and slashed Khadaz across the chest. Gahu-Shadow used a beam of darkness to pin Khadaz and poured all of his power into it, but by the time he realized how quiet Aile was, a Royal Draco Flare crashed into him.“Thanks for that,” Khadaz said. “Think he’s down yet?”“You know this guy has my energy, right?” Aile said. “It’ll take more than that!”“…You sound proud of him,” Khadaz said.Gahu-Shadow roared and put both hands forward, firing a colossal laser that engulfed both of his foes, and then he stopped to catch his breath. A minute went by and there was no movement, so Gahu-Shadow moved towards his foes, but then he saw Khadaz’s arm shoot up into the air and then go right back down. A Twilight Crash engulfed Gahu-Shadow, and Khadaz and Aile stood up, dusted themselves off, and watched.“You can’t beat teamwork,” Aile said.Gahu-Shadow crawled forward, mumbling, “You won’t…kill me…”“Well I’d rather not, but I don’t have a choice,” Khadaz said.Gahu-Shadow continued, “I…AM Shadow…if you…kill me…the Element of Shadow will…cease…to exist…”Khadaz paused to let this sink in, and then he turned to Aile and said, “He’s bluffing, right?”“Actually…he’s not,” Aile said. “The Gahu are imbued with the true power of the Elements, and over the years that bond has only grown. Kill the Gahu, you kill the Elements.”Gahu-Shadow got to his feet, barely able to stand, and said, “Heheh…you see…you need me to…be alive…or else half your…power…will be gone…”“…Oh well,” Khadaz said. “Getting rid of you a greater priority.”Aile shot a small blast of energy, hitting Gahu-Shadow square in the mask, and said, “Good choice. I knew you’d do the right thing.”Gahu-Shadow fell and vanished, and Khadaz turned to leave…but Aile moved over to where Gahu-Shadow had fallen. Khadaz followed her and discovered an Orb, and as Aile picked it up he said, “Oh…I guess he was just a Spirit. But…when I beat Shadow Knight—““You destroyed his Orb without even realizing it,” Aile said.“Ah,” Khadaz said. “So…what now? We keep the Orb under lock and key?”Aile held out her free hand and a Twayblade appeared, and then she explained, “This will be much safer. Twayblades can store genetic data, so Norscu and I hatched a plan to seal Gahu-Shadow in one. I forged this Twayblade specifically for the task, and as he was struck down, Norscu used a delayed transmutation so that, when Gahu-Shadow was defeated, his Orb would be full of genetic data.”Aile used the Twayblade to shatter the Orb, and the energy from the Orb flowed into the Twayblade and gave it an evil glow. Aile spun the blade around and said, “There we go. Now I’ve just got to hide it somewhere nobody would think to look, with natural dangers, guardians, and lots and lots of cliché traps…”She placed the sword on her back and said, “Nice work, Khadaz! We beat Gahu-Shadow!”Khadaz shook hands with her and said, “Thanks for your help…you’re going to leave me to wake all these people up by myself, aren’t you?”“Totally,” Aile said. “Have fun!”Spirits Used:#312. Gahu-Shadow#721. Metadon#628. Cuerveracios#624. Hyper Sonic#500. RyureiReview

162 is up now, showing Naraku's full transformation into a Super Spirit--the data will be put on the website momentarily. Of course, things aren't completely resolved, heheh...

Chapter 162: Facing Demons 2 (Burning Berserker)Gahu-Shadow smiled and said, “Naraku…it’s been a long time since I’ve seen one of those. This is the only living specimen, correct?”Dranes ignited his weapons and glared at Gahu-Shadow, and Amy turned to see Norscu and Rien fly up. “Neb’s alright, but he won’t be fighting anytime soon,” Rien said. “We were pretty worried when the Enterprise went down…hey, where’s Khadaz?”“…Gahu-Shadow says he killed him,” Amy replied. “Who else do we have waiting?”“…Daphne and Rhumora are preparing an attack,” Norscu said. “Aile and Selina are with them, to make sure they’re not interrupted. Neya and Catalina were about to come when Yume showed up and told them to wait for something.”“You sure you’re up for this?” Rien asked. “Sealing Inmacula took a lot out of you.”“I’ll be fine,” Norscu said. “What about you, Amy?”“Don’t worry about me,” Amy said. “Focus on the enemy.”Dranes used Demise, willing a swarm of shadows to attack his enemy, and Gahu-Shadow dodged and started to attack but stopped so he could dodge a Tornado. Amy used Ange Tsubasa to fire light waves and Rien summoned more Tornadoes, and Gahu-Shadow moved to attack but then backed away from Norscu’s Fury, ending up in the path of a Death Flare. Gahu-Shadow unleashed a burst of Shadow energy to repel his foes and charged at Rien, but Norscu leapt in the way and took the hit, giving Dranes a chance to hit with a Blade of Wind. Rien caught Norscu as he fell and Amy pushed Gahu-Shadow back with a Waterspout, and the Demon was about to attack when Dranes struck him with Blade Rush. Shots from the Ghost Arrow peppered Gahu-Shadow as he retreated, and Dranes added to the assault with a barrage of fireballs.“What about Norscu?” Amy asked.“Conscious, but exhausted,” Rien said. “Says he accomplished what he needed to do.”Gahu-Shadow dodged Holy Water, punched Amy, kicked Rien, and moved to block Dranes’s attack, but Dranes delivered a merciless strike that shattered his enemy’s guard. Amy flew up and tried to attack, but Gahu-Shadow used Dismember to disable Holy Water and struck Amy down again. Rien landed a hit with the Ghost Arrow and Dranes used Flare Blitz, battering Gahu-Shadow with a series of flaming sword strikes, but the Demon soon punched Dranes and then left a deep cut in Rien to debilitate her.“Just you and me,” Gahu-Shadow said.Dranes growled, thinking, He isn’t even slowing down…dang it! What do I have to do to stop him?!“You’re getting there,” Naraku said. “Let your Lust for Battle grow…let your rage become uncontrollable. Then you can defeat Gahu-Shadow.”Before Dranes could reply, Gahu-Shadow lashed out and hit him with Dragon Demon Wings, and before he could recover he was blasted into the dirt. Gahu-Shadow prepared to attack again, but Selina shot out of nowhere and swung Virtue, and though the Demon dodged he still felt a blade hit him.“Dranes, you alright?” Selina asked. “I thought you could use a hand.”“Great idea,” Gahu-Shadow said, using a Shadow Hand to smash Selina into the ground.Rage continued to build within Dranes, and Naraku said, “This is it, Dranes. Will you set aside your rage and continue on as you have? Or will you embrace rage and awaken my true form: Burning Naraku?”Gahu-Shadow turned to Dranes and said, “I think I’ll kill you before finishing off anyone else, just to spite your vow that you would make sure I fell next. Time for you to die.”Gahu-Shadow raised his Moon Blade, but Dranes used Rising Blaze to cut past him with a flaming uppercut and knocked Gahu-Shadow to the ground, then stomped the ground to rock him with a tremor. Dranes’s armor turned pitch black as he said, “I can’t let you kill anyone…even if I have to use Burning Naraku. I don’t know what to expect…but I will not lose!”Dranes yelled in rage, his armor pure black and an aura of dark purple flames surrounding him, and Gahu-Shadow stood up and examined Burning Naraku. “Hm…” Gahu-Shadow mumbled. “High attack power, I’ll give you that, but according to my analysis…you only have 1 Fusion Energy. What a waste.”Gahu-Shadow dashed out and swung his Moon Blade, but the sword hit Dranes’s armor and bounced off. Confused, Gahu-Shadow analyzed his foe again, and upon doing so he fell silent. “Effect: Invincible,” Gahu-Shadow said. “…No…no, that’s impossible! You must have some weak—“He was interrupted as Dranes punched him in the face, and the force of the attack was so great that he was flung several dozen yards away. Gahu-Shadow regained his balance and prepared to retaliate, but Dranes rushed up and slashed him, unleashing a burst of flame that singed Gahu-Shadow’s cape. Dranes began swinging his blades wildly, and Gahu-Shadow carefully blocked each strike, teleported behind Dranes, and slashed his neck, but he still could not harm Dranes and was swiftly repelled.“This is impossible!” Gahu-Shadow said as he endured Flare Blitz. “No one is stronger than me! Especially not some enraged freak!”A powerful blast of pure darkness shot out from Gahu-Shadow’s body and struck Dranes, knocking him back, and then Gahu-Shadow teleported over and swung his Moon Blade, which was reinforced with Shadow energy. Dranes got up after the attack, cracked his neck, and blasted Gahu-Shadow with a Death Flare. Gahu-Shadow did his best to endure, but the power of Burning Naraku was too great for him to defend himself, and even using his Iden provided no edge against his furious foe. Minutes went by and Gahu-Shadow had no success, and finally Dranes knocked the weakened Gahu-Shadow to the ground and stepped on his head. Dranes began to apply more pressure, trying to crush his foe’s skull, but then he hesitated and Gahu-Shadow was able to slip away.“Still some traces of morality left in that darkened shell of rage?” Gahu-Shadow asked. “Hmph…I’ve had enough of being kicked around by you. You have left me no choice!”The Demon put away his sword and stretched out both hands, and Dranes just charged in…but he came to a screeching halt inches from Gahu-Shadow. With a grin and obvious strain, Gahu-Shadow said, “There…my bond with the Element of Shadow is stronger than you can fathom! Giving in to rage has let darkness seep through every inch of your body, and by controlling that darkness, I can control you!”Dranes growled, his aura burning stronger, but Gahu-Shadow refused to release him. Gahu-Shadow focused as hard as he could while still trying to figure out what to do next, and he was so focused that he didn’t notice Daphne warp into the air right above him. Daphne dove straight down and used an ultra-powerful Tezuka Punch, driving Gahu-Shadow into the ground and shattering every bone in her arm, and Dranes was released from Gahu-Shadow’s control and fell back. Rhumora rushed over, but suddenly Dranes leapt up and slashed, crippling the Paladin, and Daphne moved towards her squad mate but was knocked out by Dranes. Berserk with rage, Dranes faced the sky and roared, and from not far away Aile hung her head.“Burning Naraku…a warrior with rage so intense he becomes invincible, but the difference between friend and foe is impossible to see,” Aile said. “Sorry, Dranes…this is the way things have to happen.”Dranes stood there for a moment, aura blazing, when Gahu-Shadow slowly rose to his feet and growled. “To think I would be reduced to this…” the Demon said.He teleported and Dranes followed, the two of them ending up near the unconscious Pyrami, and Gahu-Shadow reached for her but was knocked back by Dranes. Gahu-Shadow waited and thought, If I kill the girl, her power will be added to mine. I just need to get past him…Dranes rushed and slashed, and Gahu-Shadow slid under the attack and jumped toward Pyrami. Before he reached her, however, Dranes knocked him into the ground, and the berserker charged a Death Flare. “…Alright,” Gahu-Shadow said. “Go ahead! I may take some damage, but you’ll hit the girl too!”Dranes gave no response and was about to fire, but then a voice called, “Dranes! Don’t!”Dranes paused, and Azara struggled to her feet and said, “Please, Dranes, don’t do it. Don’t give in!”Gahu-Shadow blasted Azara and said, “Keep your mouth shut!”Dranes still took no action, so Gahu-Shadow moved towards Pyrami again, but at the last possible second Dranes grabbed Gahu-Shadow, threw him into the air, and blasted him with Death Flare. Dranes put his hands to his head, struggling to quiet the rage of Burning Naraku, and out of nowhere Yume appeared and put a hand on his shoulder. Instantly, Naraku returned to normal, and a second later Dranes de-fused and collapsed on the ground.“Thank you, Dranes Kazen,” Yume said. “We’ll take it from here.”Gahu-Shadow turned around as three new presences approached, and he saw Neya, Catalina, and a Hyper Sonic fly up and stop nearby.“The Twilight Guardians…of course,” Gahu-Shadow said. “I was wondering when you were going to show up. Come…see if you can maintain balance!”Spirits Used:#312. Gahu-ShadowS12. Burning Naraku#498. Fullmetal#613. Memory Rosary#615. Jeune Ange#440. Omni#886. Fictivalkyrie#912. ProtectivalkyrieReview

Anything I could say would only make the suspense worse, so I guess you'll just have to wait until tomorrow. Sorry...but at least there's a definite date as to when I'll continue the cliffhanger! The bright side to the Forum downtime is that it gave me time to get Sekai completely written and typed, leaving everything in order for the Final Stretch.But c'mon, I've gotta try to create suspense! Right up to the Epilogue, even!

Don't worry, most of the characters Gahu-Shadow defeated aren't dead, just unconcsious/exhausted/powerless. Sorry that wasn't clear--Krika is the only one whose life ended in this chapter, although a lot of others came really close. Gahu-Shadow is leaving them alive as a taunt of sorts, like he's saying, "Don't worry, they're still alive. If you can defeat me, you just might be able to save them, heheh..."As far as he's concerned, Khadaz and Aile are probably the only real threats, the former of which has been dealt with, and if Aile does pose a challenge, he figures he can draw it out long enough for her defeated allies to bleed to death, which might distract/demoralize Aile and ensure his victory. He killed Krika because, while it didn't worry him, the Crast could've become a large annoyance if left around.Again, sorry I wasn't clear about that. If Gahu-Shadow isn't defeated soon-ish, there will be more death, but as for right now, it's limited to Khadaz and Krika.

We might get to see Khadaz's Blade of Souls soon...I wanted Gahu-Shadow to be a bit of a surprise, but I was a bit worried someone might predict he would join into the battle--in the end, it is a challenge to his goal of world domination. As for villains attacking one at a time...yeah, it's one of those things that doesn't make a whole lot of sense, but is sort of a handicap put in for the plot's sake...I should work on that.Chapter 161 is up, and Gahu-Shadow destroys everyone. Well, almost everyone. We also get an explanation that should clarify just how powerful he is, and it ends when someone finally joins the battle. We'll pick up there tomorrow...

Chapter 161: Facing DemonsDranes walked through the camp and looked up, seeing the Enterprise floating not far away. He turned Naraku’s Orb over in his hand, thinking, All this time, I’ve wanted to be free of Naraku…but now I realize that I’ve fallen behind on everything else. I’ve made so much progress, but now, it’s meaningless…Dranes stared at the Orb for a few seconds, and then he sighed, “Oh well. I’ll catch up once we get home.”Suddenly a chill came over him, and he noticed everyone in the camp stop what they were doing and turn to the sky. Gahu-Shadow floated through the air in his Bionicle form—a well-armored, onyx-colored Toa Inika wearing an Iden and a cape—and came to a stop just above the camp. With a smile, the Gahu raised his hand and fired a blast of Shadow, shattering the shields of the Enterprise and blasting a hole in it, and once again the starship plummeted. Panic spread through the camp, and Gahu-Shadow decided to wait and admire it until someone came to oppose him. He did not wait long—Kharzani, Nk, and Zagrin all flew up in a matter of seconds.“Gahu-Shadow…I had a feeling you might show up after we killed your Knights,” Nk said.“Don’t know why you bothered,” Zagrin said. “I mean, you handed out Demon Claws to all your lapdogs, thus giving them access to your power, and we still beat them. You’re going down.”“You have no idea how mistaken you are,” Gahu-Shadow said.Kharzani charged and used Nightsever, but Gahu-Shadow flicked his wrist and his opponent was sent crashing into the ground. Nk unleashed a beam of Twilight Flame, but Gahu-Shadow spun, using his cape to reflect the beam, and then willed an axe of Shadow to smack the Fire-Lord into the ground. Zagrin tried shooting while his foe was still attacking, but Gahu-Shadow put one finger against the gun, and when the trigger was pulled the weapon exploded.Gahu-Shadow grabbed Zagrin and said, “You already know that I’ve increased my power beyond that of a normal Gahu, correct? Amazing, the kind of artifacts you can find if you know where to look. But I did learn one new trick I think you should be aware of: I’ve formed a stronger link with my Claws, not entirely unlike Makuta’s connection to his Kraata. When a Demon Claw is destroyed, its energy returns to me…but my energy does not go down when I grant my Claw to someone. Even better, my Claw, upon its destruction will also grant to me the power of he who used it. So you see, each time one of my Dark Knights was slain, his power was added to mine…not counting Corruption, of course, since he wasted his Claw on that doll of his. But the point is, your efforts succeeded not only in wiping out my Knights, but in raising my power exponentially!”Gahu-Shadow punched Zagrin in the gut, continuing, “The power of Shadow-Knight’s ultimate weapon, Total Destroyer, Genocide Machine, Gahu Darkhadaz, and Deathtalon, all added to the power of a Gahu who had already risen above his brothers and sisters! You are all doomed!”Zagrin felt his power fail as Zennou Ice reverted to Ice TH, and as he fell, Dranes watched on in horror. Sakura grabbed his shoulder and said, “Get out of here! Help the others evacuate!”Hesitantly, Dranes left, and Daphne said, “Rhumora, buff me up. Sakura, go on ahead.”Sakura nodded and went off, and Rhumora asked, “What’s the plan?”“I charge energy and wait for an opening,” Daphne said, putting her scythe away. “Then, I hit him with a Tezuka Punch.”“…That’s it?” Rhumora said, casting spells on Daphne. “Just a punch?”Daphne activated Battle Cry and said, “The Tezuka Punch is the punch of legends. It takes power from Legendary Spirits and Spirits with the power of legendary warriors, and then adds it to its own. Plus, in Perfect Fusion I can bend the rules and let it use the power of people with strength considered ‘legendary’, and there are plenty of those nearby. Add it all together and you get one heck of a punch.”“…Alright,” Rhumora said. “Let’s hope it works.”Above them, several Element-Lords flew out to engage Gahu-Shadow, and the Demon smiled as they made their attack. Hewtu and Nupenua were the first to attack, attempting to smash the Gahu between their weapons, but Gahu-Shadow smashed his elbows into their faces and knocked them out instantly. Nokali and Tonnira launched a long-range barrage of Water and Thunder while Vicax and Solenma attacked from behind, and Gahu-Shadow grabbed Vicax, used him to beat Solenma into the ground, willed Shadows to surround Nokali and Tonnira, and then quickly raised his Moon Blade. Artakhall’s sword clashed with the blade, and as Gahu-Shadow struck down the Steel-Lord, he felt something pierce his side and turned around. A Stuffed Warrior wielding a Moon Blade punched Gahu-Shadow, and Gahu-Shadow then ripped it to shreds and looked at Sakura.“I don’t recall giving you permission to use my power,” the Demon said. “I should punish you, but the strain of controlling something with such strength must be taxing enough.”“You have no idea,” Sakura whispered. “…Final Assault!”It was then that Gahu-Shadow turned around, and before he could react, he was attacked by an army of one hundred Stuffed Warriors, all using Gahu-Shadow’s power. Sakura passed out immediately, causing the Warriors to fade away as well, and Gahu-Shadow said, “That actually hurt…I’ve changed my mind. I am going to punish you.”Gahu-Shadow dove at Sakura, but he sensed someone attacking and teleported out of the way. Hyohana, with Frozen Fang active, swung Gelée through the air the Demon had occupied, and then Kharuun leapt up behind Gahu-Shadow and fired an Ikhav Saigo Kousen. Gahu-Shadow avoided the attack and prepared to strike Kharuun, but then Amy flew in and used Ange Tsubasa, missing but forcing him back.“There’s just no shortage of you fools,” Gahu-Shadow said. “Fine, let’s get this over with. I have a world to conquer.”Kharuun tried using Chaos Control, but Gahu-Shadow smacked him with Dragon Demon Wings and then slashed Hyohana as she went past. Gahu-Shadow deflected a Light Blast and shot a Shadow Bolt at Amy, but she dodged and used Ange Tsubasa. As Amy continued her efforts to stay in the fight, she thought, I doubt Gahu-Shadow would be here unless all of his servants were defeated. Khadaz must have defeated Shadow Knight…so where is he?Amy then saw the tip of the Moon Blade shoot out of her chest, and behind her, Gahu-Shadow said, “Worried about your husband? Don’t bother, my dear…I killed him.”“…I don’t believe that,” Amy said.“Oh, but it’s true,” Gahu-Shadow said. “I blew a giant hole in his chest. Vaporized his heart, both lungs, a good chunk of his spinal cord…Khadaz is dead.”“SHUT UP!” Kharuun shouted, using Twilight Dash to rush at Gahu-Shadow.The Demon used one kick to send Kharuun reeling and another to send him down, and then he withdrew his blade and cut off Amy’s wings. Bolts of Freezing Lightning surged towards Gahu-Shadow, who dodged each one, but then Hyohana used a Wolf Bullet to stun him and slashed, unleashing a huge wave of ice. Hyohana dove to check on Kharuun, but Gahu-Shadow warped in front of her and knocked her unconscious with a claw swipe. A barrage of Vectors alerted Gahu-Shadow to Kazumi’s presence, so he slipped through the attack and quickly dispatched her with one sword swipe. Azara and Pyrami unleashed their most powerful spells while Barometz swung his Progressive Katana, but Gahu-Shadow dodged all the attacks, set Barometz on fire, severed Azara’s left arm, and grabbed Pyrami by the hair. Azara reverted to her normal form and shrieked in pain, and Gahu-Shadow lifted Pyrami off the ground and electrocuted her.“You have one of my Claws,” Gahu-Shadow said. “If I kill you, I gain your strength.”Suddenly Zenrei appeared and took Pyrami by the arm, and they both vanished right before Toatoa used Cat Claw on Gahu-Shadow. Zenrei returned as the Demon sighed, spun, and blasted Toatoa, saying, “You worms are so impolite…ignorant, too. Les Quatre Fréres de Lame have gathered, meaning a disaster will occur. Before attacking me, did you consider that my victory may be that disaster?”“The thought did cross our minds,” Kotoba said. “But Zenrei’s convinced that it is not.”“Really?” Gahu-Shadow said. “Let me convince you otherwise.”Toatoa moved in to attack again, but this time Gahu-Shadow blasted a small hole in his stomach and removed him from the battle. Gahu-Shadow turned to Zenrei and readied his sword, when suddenly he felt something kick him in the head and knock him back. Aile floated there and said, “You’re not the disaster, trust me.”Zenrei activated Suishou no Sekai, and Gahu-Shadow said, “Ah, Aile, I see your overconfidence hasn’t wavered at all. Come to grace us with your presence?”“Nope,” Aile said. “Just wanted to buy some time.”Zenrei pointed her sword at Gahu-Shadow, and Aile flew away as the warrior declared, “Owari.”A massive explosion engulfed Gahu-Shadow, and Suishou no Sekai deactivated as Aile landed next to Dranes. “Pretty impressive, eh?” Aile said.Dranes punched Aile in the face and shouted, “Don’t give me that! Why aren’t you putting up a fight? You could turn the tables in this battle!”“Same to you,” Aile said. “Naraku may not be bound to you any more, but there’s nothing stopping you from fusing with it.”Dranes was silent, and Aile went on, “Things have to happen a certain way. You can call it ‘fate’, or ‘destiny’, or whatever, but it says that if I take Gahu-Shadow down single-handedly, things will end up a lot worse further down the road. So, Dranes…are you going to help out, or not?”Above them, Zenrei stopped to catch her breath, but Gahu-Shadow suddenly lashed out, ripped off her Krana, slashed her torso, and then kicked her into the ground where her defeated allies lay. Lexero and Twani could be seen approaching so Gahu-Shadow prepared to attack, but suddenly the Hitokage grabbed him and Midori slashed him with a Wind Scythe. Zak threw Gahu-Shadow into Winds of Change and Twani slammed a Tectonic Plate onto him, but the Demon recovered instantly and used Dragon Demon Wings to defeat the Air-Lord and his wife. Midori rushed to his parents’ aid but was struck down as well, and Gahu-Shadow targeted Zak next but Rikka appeared and buffeted him with Hail. Zak attacked but Gahu-Shadow obliterated the Hitokage, and as Zak fell the Demon noticed Keizah going to heal the fallen.“A wasted effort,” Gahu-Shadow, downing Rikka with a blast of Shadow.Gahu-Shadow teleported down and swung at Keizah, but a force hit him and made him stumble back. Krika glared at Gahu-Shadow, mask glowing, and said, “Let him finish.”“…Ahahahaha!” Gahu-Shadow laughed. “You, of all people, protecting the healer? Aren’t these people your enemies? Oh, that’s right, you want to redeem yourself.”Gahu-Shadow fought the power of the Crast and walked towards Krika, saying, “You belong to the Shadows. There is no redemption for you…only death.”Krika tried focusing harder, but Gahu-Shadow came right up to him, drew his Moon Blade, and swung, decapitating Krika and freeing himself from the nuisance of the Crast. He turned towards Keizah once again, but this time Keelie appeared and fired a Matrix Laser, forcing Gahu-Shadow to defend himself. With a sigh, Gahu-Shadow snatched Keelie’s Twayblade and stabbed her with it, and then he used a hammer of Shadows to smash her into the dirt.Keizah finished healing Amy and woke her up, saying, “Please try to distract him so I can heal the others!”Amy nodded and took off, and Keizah looked for Azara so he could heal her arm. When he saw her, however, he also saw her arm had already been restored, and Marigold knelt over her using Healing Palms. Keizah couldn’t help but pause, thinking, That looks like…no, it can’t be…“Keizah!” Corinwood yelled.Keizah spun just as Gahu-Shadow swung at him, but Corinwood leapt in the way and took the hit instead. Kohena charged at Gahu-Shadow but was knocked out, and Keizah attacked with a Coral Spear but was defeated as well. Amy threw Holy Water but missed, and Gahu-Shadow knocked out Marigold and chuckled.“You know, you have done better than I was expecting,” Gahu-Shadow said. “Oh well, at least you tried. But no more holding back…no, everyone dies.”Gahu-Shadow shot forward and swung, but a blade appeared to block him. Surprised, Gahu-Shadow took a moment to step back, and found that the one who stopped him was Dranes, in Fusion with Naraku. Dranes took a stance and said, “No…only one more person is going to die today. I’ll make sure that you’re the next to fall, Gahu-Shadow!”Spirits Used:#312. Gahu-Shadow, #774. Enterprise, #747. Demon Prince, S11. Librum, S13. Zennou Ice, #886. Fictivalkyrie, #887. Weavalkyrie, #912. Protectivalkyrie, #615. Jeune Ange, #186. Matoro Inika, S14. Saigo Zadakh, #607. Kira, #599. Unit 01, #863. Experita, S22. Redeemed Demon, S01. Language Supreme, S04. Sohma Xotaku, #500. Ryurei, #549. Lewa Newva, #640. Onua Newva, #687. Dragon Ice, #548. Kopaka Newva, #433. Tridrake, #654. Ulta-Keelerak, #477. Spirit Healer, #645. Makuta KrikaReview

People know about it, but they haven't had time to practice it yet--at this point, no one else has really mastered Chikara Compression, which is necessary before using Chikara Compression Burst. Although, it's possible that Khadaz's Blade of Souls could enable it...