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The Legend Continues - Contest Results! Art: 1. Crunchyn with The Brothers Corrupted (27 votes) 2. Pomegranate with Tapestry of Time (24 votes) 3. Demitsorou with Wairuha, Uniter of Storms (14 votes) 4. Illustrious Var with The Great Battle (11 votes) 5. (tie) Uncle K. with An Axe to Grind (6 votes) 5. (tie) prpldragon with Sons of Makuta- Bionicle G2 Rahkshi (6 votes) 7. Nukaya with Hahli's back! (5 votes) 8. Disty says hi with Tahnok, Scarab of Fire (4 votes) Writing: 1. Jonathan Juan with The Dreaming Dead (16 votes) 2. SPIRIT with Clinging to the Bones (13 votes) 3. (tie) markyman20 with Vezon's Visit (7 votes) 3. (tie) JTH_Studios with Journey's End (7 votes) 3. (tie) SkullKid with The End of Time (7 votes) 6. (tie) Alexander123 with The Tragedy of Makuta (5 votes) 6. (tie) Disty says hi with The Conspiracy (5 votes) 8. (tie) Pohaturon with The Legend Continues - Of Druids and Shadow (4 votes) 8. (tie) Kookie with A Simpler Time (4 votes) 10. PeabodySam with Gresh - Gladiator of Jungle (3 votes) 11. Endless Sea (Alaki Nuva) with Bionicle: Journey to Zero (2 votes) 12. Pereki with No More Shadows (1 vote) Building: 1. Mesonak with Makuta: The Mask Hoarder (26 votes) 2. Sparkytron with Kulta Kal and the Skeleton Army (22 votes) 3. DeeVee with Ekimu: Master of Creation (21 votes) 4. Pohaturon with Bionicle G2 Master Builder Set (12 votes) 5. (tie) Disty says hi with Poison Beast (G2 Lerahk) (11 votes) 5. (tie) Eljay: Toa of Mangosteen with Makuta - Mask Maker's Return (11 votes) 7. CeziuM with Nuurakh - Forge Overseer (10 votes) 8. The Venom with G2 Mata-Nui: Titan of Life (8 votes) 9. Rockmonster2000 with Vetr-jotunn, Elemental Spirit of Ice (6 votes) 10. exxtrooper with Guardian of Shadows (1 vote) The first-place winners will receive a physical copy of The Art of LEGO Bionicle and their choice of 71316 Umarak the Destroyer or 71311 Kopaka and Melum - Unity Set. The second place winners will receive their choice of an Uniter Toa and their matching Creature. The third place winners will receive their choice of 71313 Lava Beast, 71314 Storm Beast, or 71315 Quake Beast. Thanks to LEGO for providing the prizes! As well, our three voters randomly chosen to receive a Creature set are Kookie, Demitsorou, and Azani. Congratulations! What can we say? It was an incredible contest, with so many great works produced in each category. Bionicle as a theme may have gone back into the box (for now), but it's clearly still fuelling our imaginations and sending our creativity to exciting new heights. Congratulations to our winners, thanks to everyone who entered, voted, and commented on our fine entries, and we'll be seeing you next time!
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Final Poll! The Legend Continues - Building Division This is it... it's the final round of voting for The Legend Continues - Building Division! One voter from each poll will be randomly chosen to win a Creature set! Final Voting begins June 18th and ends June 20th at 11:59 P.M. EST. The contest winner and final voting results will be posted in a separate thread on June 21st. --------------------------------------------------------- BZP Rules and Guidelines --------------------------------------------------------- 1. >>> Bionicle G2 Master Builder Set 2. >>> Vetr-jotunn, Elemental Spirit of Ice 3. >>> Ekimu: Master of Creation 4. >>> Kulta Kal and the Skeleton Army 5. >>> Makuta: The Mask Hoarder 6. >>> Poison Beast (G2 Lerahk) 7. >>> Nuurakh - Forge Overseer 8. >>> G2 Mata-Nui: Titan of Life 9. >>> Guardian of Shadows 10. >>> Makuta - Mask Maker's Return
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Final Poll! The Legend Continues - Writing Division This is it... it's the final round of voting for The Legend Continues - Writing Division! One voter from each poll will be randomly chosen to win a Creature set! Final Voting begins June 18th and ends June 20th at 11:59 P.M. EST. The contest winner and final voting results will be posted in a separate thread on June 21st. --------------------------------------------------------- BZP Rules and Guidelines --------------------------------------------------------- 1. The Legend Continues - Of Druids and Shadow 2. The Tragedy of Makuta 3. Vezon's Visit 4. A Simpler Time 5. Journey's End 6. No More Shadows 7. Gresh - Gladiator of Jungle 8. Bionicle: Journey to Zero 9. The Conspiracy 10. The Dreaming Dead 11. The End of Time 12. Clinging to the Bones
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Final Poll The Legend Continues - Art This is it... it's the final round of votingg for The Legend Continues - Art Division! One voter from each poll will be randomly chosen to win a Creature set! Final Voting begins June 18th and ends June 20th at 11:59 P.M. EST. The contest winner and final voting results will be posted in a separate thread on June 21st. --------------------------------------------------------- BZP Rules and Guidelines --------------------------------------------------------- 1. >>> An Axe to Grind 2. >>> Tahnok, Scarab of Fire 3. >>> Wairuha, Uniter of Storms 4. >>> Hahli's back! 5. >>> Tapestry of Time 6. >>> Sons of Makuta- Bionicle G2 Rahkshi 7. >>> The Great Battle 8. >>> The Brothers Corrupted
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Preliminary Poll A-3 The Legend Continues - Art Division Here we are... it's the preliminary round of voting for The Legend Continues - Art Division! Two entries will advance from each poll, as well as two overall wildcards. Preliminary Voting begins June 14th and ends June 17th at 11:59 P.M. EST. Final Voting begins June 18th and ends June 20th at 11:59 P.M. EST. The contest winner and final voting results will be posted in a separate thread on June 21st. --------------------------------------------------------- BZP Rules and Guidelines --------------------------------------------------------- 1. >>> Hahli's back! 2. >>> Tahnok, Scarab of Fire 3. >>> Art Cover - Turn of Fate 4. >>> the four dimensional framework analyzer featured in A Treatise on Protodermis 1st Edition 5. >>> All I Wanted Was For Makuta To Be Free Of The Mask Of Ultimate Power's Influence And Reunite With His Brother, Why Did They Shove Him In A Hole Instead 6. >>> Tahu Nuva- Spirit of Flame 7. >>> The Great Battle
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Preliminary Poll A-2 The Legend Continues - Art Division Here we are... it's the preliminary round of voting for The Legend Continues - Art Division! Two entries will advance from each poll, as well as two overall wildcards. Preliminary Voting begins June 14th and ends June 17th at 11:59 P.M. EST. Final Voting begins June 18th and ends June 20th at 11:59 P.M. EST. The contest winner and final voting results will be posted in a separate thread on June 21st. --------------------------------------------------------- BZP Rules and Guidelines --------------------------------------------------------- 1. >>> Tapestry of Time 2. >>> Rightful Place 3. >>> Tahu and Ikir: Year Three 4. >>> Dark Skies, Bright Stars 5. >>> Wairuha, Uniter of Storms 6. >>> Old secret Laboratory on Okoto 7. >>> United Through Time 8. >>> Shadow Toa
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Preliminary Poll A-1 The Legend Continues - Art Division Here we are... it's the preliminary round of voting for The Legend Continues - Art Division! Two entries will advance from each poll, as well as two overall wildcards. Preliminary Voting begins June 14th and ends June 17th at 11:59 P.M. EST. Final Voting begins June 18th and ends June 20th at 11:59 P.M. EST. The contest winner and final voting results will be posted in a separate thread on June 21st. --------------------------------------------------------- BZP Rules and Guidelines --------------------------------------------------------- 1. >>> Exo-Toa 2. >>> The Brothers Corrupted 3. >>> An Axe to Grind 4. >>> Makuta, Master of Nothing 5. >>> The Mask Collectors 6. >>> Legendary Toa Tahu 7. >>> Sons of Makuta- Bionicle G2 Rahkshi 8. >>> Master Of Light
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Preliminary Poll B-4 The Legend Continues - Building Division Here we are... it's the preliminary round of voting for The Legend Continues - Building Division! Two entries will advance from each poll, as well as two overall wildcards. Preliminary Voting begins June 14th and ends June 17th at 11:59 P.M. EST. Final Voting begins June 18th and ends June 20th at 11:59 P.M. EST. The contest winner and final voting results will be posted in a separate thread on June 21st. --------------------------------------------------------- BZP Rules and Guidelines --------------------------------------------------------- 1. >>> Four Dimensional Framework Analyzer (Used to observe future of small objects) 2. >>> Alternative Creature of Jungle (Weapon) 3. >>> Fernus the Incinerator 4. >>> Bingzak, Toa of Time 5. >>> Takua of the Tribe of Light 6. >>> G2 Mata-Nui: Titan of Life 7. >>> Makuta: The Mask Hoarder
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Preliminary Poll B-3 The Legend Continues - Building Division Here we are... it's the preliminary round of voting for The Legend Continues - Building Division! Two entries will advance from each poll, as well as two overall wildcards. Preliminary Voting begins June 14th and ends June 17th at 11:59 P.M. EST. Final Voting begins June 18th and ends June 20th at 11:59 P.M. EST. The contest winner and final voting results will be posted in a separate thread on June 21st. --------------------------------------------------------- BZP Rules and Guidelines --------------------------------------------------------- 1. >>> Bionicle G2 Master Builder Set 2. >>> Tesseract Turbo 3. >>> Poison Beast (G2 Lerahk) 4. >>> Kurahk the engulfer 5. >>> Uxar, Creature of Jungle Concept 6. >>> Kulta Kal and the Skeleton Army 7. >>> Concept Tahu and Sword Ikir
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Preliminary Poll B-2 The Legend Continues - Building Division Here we are... it's the preliminary round of voting for The Legend Continues - Building Division! Two entries will advance from each poll, as well as two overall wildcards. Preliminary Voting begins June 14th and ends June 17th at 11:59 P.M. EST. Final Voting begins June 18th and ends June 20th at 11:59 P.M. EST. The contest winner and final voting results will be posted in a separate thread on June 21st. --------------------------------------------------------- BZP Rules and Guidelines --------------------------------------------------------- 1. >>> Vetr-jotunn, Elemental Spirit of Ice 2. >>> Ultimate Dume: Corrupted Protector 3. >>> Cyborg Rilos 4. >>> Karzahni: Master of Madness 5. >>> Nuurakh - Forge Overseer 6. >>> Guardian of Shadows 7. >>> Protectors and Givers of Comfort
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Preliminary Poll B-1 The Legend Continues - Building Division Here we are... it's the preliminary round of voting for The Legend Continues - Building Division! Two entries will advance from each poll, as well as two overall wildcards. Preliminary Voting begins June 14th and ends June 17th at 11:59 P.M. EST. Final Voting begins June 18th and ends June 20th at 11:59 P.M. EST. The contest winner and final voting results will be posted in a separate thread on June 21st. --------------------------------------------------------- BZP Rules and Guidelines --------------------------------------------------------- 1. >>> Ekimu: Master of Creation 2. >>> Makuta - Mask Maker's Return 3. >>> Ultimate Being 4. >>> Ahkmou - Toa of Shadow 5. >>> Warlord Makuta - Corrupted Mask Maker 6. >>> Mildara, The Ocean Plesiosaur 7. >>> Anrak, Servant of Makuta
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Preliminary Poll W-4 The Legend Continues - Writing Division Here we are... it's the preliminary round of voting for The Legend Continues - Writing Division! Two entries will advance from each poll, as well as two overall wildcards. Preliminary Voting begins June 14th and ends June 17th at 11:59 P.M. EST. Final Voting begins June 18th and ends June 20th at 11:59 P.M. EST. The contest winner and final voting results will be posted in a separate thread on June 21st. --------------------------------------------------------- BZP Rules and Guidelines --------------------------------------------------------- 1. Journey's End 2. The First and the Last 3. Gresh - Gladiator of Jungle 4. A Treatise on Protodermis Preview 5. The Legend Continues- Assimilate 6. Makuta's jealousy. 7. Makutas Bargain
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Preliminary Poll W-3 The Legend Continues - Writing Division Here we are... it's the preliminary round of voting for The Legend Continues - Writing Division! Two entries will advance from each poll, as well as two overall wildcards. Preliminary Voting begins June 14th and ends June 17th at 11:59 P.M. EST. Final Voting begins June 18th and ends June 20th at 11:59 P.M. EST. The contest winner and final voting results will be posted in a separate thread on June 21st. --------------------------------------------------------- BZP Rules and Guidelines --------------------------------------------------------- 1. Mythology in the G2 Universe 2. The Conspiracy 3. The Legend Continues: Umarak of the Shadow 4. Realm of Shadow 5. The End of Time 6. Pohatu 7. Clinging to the Bones
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Preliminary Poll W-2 The Legend Continues - Writing Division Here we are... it's the preliminary round of voting for The Legend Continues - Writing Division! Two entries will advance from each poll, as well as two overall wildcards. Preliminary Voting begins June 14th and ends June 17th at 11:59 P.M. EST. Final Voting begins June 18th and ends June 20th at 11:59 P.M. EST. The contest winner and final voting results will be posted in a separate thread on June 21st. --------------------------------------------------------- BZP Rules and Guidelines --------------------------------------------------------- 1. The Dreaming Dead 2. The Great Hunt 3. The Legend Continues: Shadows of Past and Future 4. A Simpler Time 5. Boxer502 - Bionicle:Turn of Fate 6. Second Star 7. Heroes of Legend
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Preliminary Poll W-1 The Legend Continues - Writing Division Here we are... it's the preliminary round of voting for The Legend Continues - Writing Division! Two entries will advance from each poll, as well as two overall wildcards. Preliminary Voting begins June 14th and ends June 17th at 11:59 P.M. EST. Final Voting begins June 18th and ends June 20th at 11:59 P.M. EST. The contest winner and final voting results will be posted in a separate thread on June 21st. --------------------------------------------------------- BZP Rules and Guidelines --------------------------------------------------------- 1. Bionicle: Mask of Imitation 2. The Legend Continues - Of Druids and Shadow 3. No More Shadows 4. The Tragedy of Makuta 5. Return to the Underworld: The Protectors' Mission 6. Vezon's Visit 7. Bionicle: Journey to Zero
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“Hailing from the deepest and darkest corners of the Okoto jungle, it’s the rookie of the year, so close to winning his first ever championship! You all know him, you all love him. Give it up for… Gresh, the Gladiator of Jungle!” As the announcer’s booming, echoing voice faded away beneath the cheering audience, Gresh stepped forward through the gate. At first, he shielded his eyes as his vision adjusted to the bright sunlight, a stark contrast to the dark armory that he had just left. Then, as he looked around the arena, he allowed himself a well-deserved moment to fully take in his surroundings. Even now, after so many games, the arena still took his breath away. The unorthodox angular stone architecture that reached up towards the heavens… the statues modeled in the likeness of past champions… a massive carving of the Protectors’ mask that marked the entrance to the arena, which surely must have taken years to complete, even for the Stone Tribe’s greatest carvers. The stands were completely filled; he had never seen such a large audience gathered before. Then again, this was the first time he had ever attended the final championship game. Okotans from all across the island were in attendance, but most wore the green or red-hued armor of the Regions of Jungle or Fire, respectively. The Okotans of the Jungle Tribe cheered as they saw their Gladiator. With a laugh, Gresh flexed his muscular arms, twice as thick as any normal arm should be. The villagers roared with excitement, and some of the female Okotans even swooned. One particular Okotan in the front row caught Gresh’s eye. He was a familiar young lad named Tamaru, and he had attended every single one of Gresh’s games. Although he nursed a crippling fear of heights, he watched the arena matches with his innocent wide eyes, always so full of wonder and curiosity. Gresh had hoped that the courage displayed in the arena would inspire Tamaru to overcome his phobia. “You’ll win today, right?” asked Tamaru. Gresh grinned. “You bet, I will!” he replied, winking to the young villager. Gresh took in a deep breath and let it out slowly. While he lived in the Region of Jungle, he thought of this arena as his true home. So long as he had a long life and full career ahead of him, it would always be his home. It was where he belonged, and where he was destined to be. He knew that without a doubt. A flash of lightning streaked across the sky. The arena, along with the entire City of the Mask Makers, was blanketed in perpetual night. The ancient architecture was overgrown with vines as nature fought to reclaim what it once held as its own. Many of the statues had collapsed and crumbled into pieces, with the remaining few looking as though they might topple at the lightest breeze. The stands were empty. There was not a living soul in sight. It was as quiet and still as the grave. Gresh blinked and shook his head. What was that? A vision? Or was it just a dream? Rubbing his eyes, he grumbled, “I haven’t rested enough, recently.” In his moment of distraction, Gresh hardly even noticed that the announcer had revealed his opponent in today’s game. Malum, the Gladiator of Fire, stepped through the gate on the opposite side of the arena. This powerful warrior clad in red armor had chosen to arm himself with a pair of large Flame Claws. He was a tough and resilient foe who was known for not giving up, even when the odds were stacked against him. Gresh tightened his grip on his Hook Blades, a popular choice of Gladiator weapon in the arena. He knew that the match would not be an easy victory against Malum, who had years of experience on his side. Still, perhaps a breath of fresh air was just what this arena needed. Ekimu and Makuta, the great Mask Makers, stood in the balcony above the stands. Gresh faced them and raised his weapons in salute. He could hardly contain the thrilling excitement that rushed through him. The Mask Makers! They were here to see him! Ekimu lifted his Hammer of Power to the sky, single-handedly silencing the crowd. “Play well,” he announced, “and may the virtues guide you to victory!” Makuta lifted his Hammer of Control as well. “Let the tournament… begin!” he proclaimed. Gresh felt the arena shake as the ancient machinery came to life. The entire floor was comprised of a hexagonal grid, which rose and fall like the waves upon the beach. Gladiators had to be light on their feet to able to cross the “sea of stone.” If that was all, then it would be easy. Of course, that was not all. A large hole opened up in the center of the arena, unveiling an artificial tornado. Sand flew through the air as it was sucked into the all-consuming vortex. “Well,” Gresh murmured to himself, “this is certainly new.” He had seen plenty of arena hazards during the tournament, everything from flamethrowers to water geysers, but this whirlwind of sand was unexpected. In a matter of moments, the tiny rock particles stung his eyes, coated the insides of his lungs, and made every movement feel sluggish. He was smothered. It had latched onto his face and bored its sharp claws into the back of his skull. He tried to pull it off, but he just felt so weak… as though all of his muscle was stripped away, leaving him bare to the metallic bone. He could hardly breathe with this thing covering his mouth… as he tried to scream for help, all that he could manage were ragged gasps that eerily sounded almost like maniacal giggling. He could not see… not with his own eyes, which felt as though they were stabbed with knives. Instead, he was forced to see the world through this other creature’s eyes, as it prodded his cranium and moved him like a puppet without free will. “Snap out of it!” Gresh told himself, shaking his head again. This was no time for daydreaming. He had to concentrate on the game. After all, just one wrong move, and- Gresh was knocked to the ground, dropping his weapons as he fell. Through the sandstorm, he could see the shape of Malum standing over him. The Gladiator of Fire scowled upon him, and then raised his Flame Claws in preparation for the final blow. “Malum, wait!” Gresh called out. “I’m disarmed! The rules, you can’t-” Malum gritted his teeth. “I don’t care!” he spat. “I have not come this far just to lose to a rookie like you! We’re not heroes, Gresh… we’re just warriors, without a war to fight, forced fight for money and fame. We’re not heroes, and we never will be.” Instinct kicked in and guided Gresh’s movements as he rolled out of the way of Malum’s Flame Claws. As soon as he was back on his feet, he grabbed one of the spare weapons strapped to his back: a long chain with a pair of hooks on the end. It was not a Gladiator weapon he typically used, since he preferred the Hook Blades, but for some reason he decided to try something different today. As Malum charged at him, Gresh jumped onto a rising hexagonal pillar, giving himself the high ground over his opponent. He whipped the chain forward and latched the claws onto Malum’s mask. Then, with a flick of his wrist, the red mask was sent flying off of his opponent’s face. Weakened, the Gladiator of Fire fell forward. He watched as his unmasked opponent hit the ground and lay there, unmoving. Oh, yes! It just felt so satisfying to watch the once-mighty warrior, now even more weakened and lifeless than himself. Now, they would know how it felt to be him. He could hear more coming. With his defeated foe’s mask in his hand, he scurried away as quickly as he could. This was his home, and he’d make them regret intruding upon his territory. Gresh blinked again. “Why does this keep happening?” he wondered aloud. But, now was not the time for such questions. His long-coveted victory was within his grasp. He jumped from pillar to pillar before leaping directly into the sand vortex. In the center of the tornado - the eye of the storm - was the lever that would end the match. With a mighty swing of his Hook Blade, he activated the mechanism. At once, the “sea of stone” settled as the hexagonal grid coalesced back into a smooth flat surface. The sand whirlwind dissipated, and once again Gresh could clearly see the audience. They cheered for him, celebrating his victory. Gresh had accomplished his dream: he was finally an arena champion. With a hearty laugh, he lifted his weapons to the sky and took it all in, closing his eyes and letting the wonderful sounds of praise ring in his ears. After his celebration, Gresh ascended a flight of stairs leading up to the balcony, where he met Ekimu and Makuta. He knelt before them, bowing his head respectfully. “My victory is dedicated to you. Without your unity to guide us, Okoto would be lost.” “Congratulations on winning the tournament, Gresh!” said Makuta. “With your power, you’ve come a long way for a rookie.” “You have shown great honor and courage in the arena,” proclaimed Ekimu. “For that, we award you with the ceremonial Copper Mask of Victory!” Then, the Mask Makers revealed the bronze mask, resting upon a decorated pedestal. The Copper Mask was beautiful, combining Makuta’s fine craftsmanship and Ekimu’s ornate detail. Gresh could see his own image reflected upon its shining surface, which gleamed in the sunlight. It had no power, but it was a symbol of great respect that would only be awarded to the greatest champions. He looked down upon the shining mask he held in his hands. Something compelled him to put it on. He clawed at the thing on his face, but it would still not let go. Determined not to let this deter him, he instead placed the coveted mask over the facehugger. Instantly, energy surged through him as it was drained from the mask. This was more than any being, other than the legendary Toa, should have handled, but now it was his. Unhinged laughter escaped from his lips as he felt more life than he had in millennia. He… could… feel… the… POWER! Gresh gasped as he snapped back to reality. Chaos had unfolded around him while he had blacked out. Okotans screamed and ran as a dozen powerful warriors barged into the arena, spreading fear and panic in their wake. The invaders were all shapes and sizes. One of them was a hulking titan able to demolish rock with his fists. Another was shorter than most Okotans but made up for his diminutive stature by riding upon a vicious reptilian mount. One thing united them all: they were the Hunters, a band of thieves and mercenaries whose loyalties belonged to the highest bidders. With a start, Gresh realized that the Copper Mask of Victory was missing from its pedestal. He ran through the arena, looking for the Hunter that had taken it. At last, he spotted the gleaming mask in the hands of someone he recognized all too well: a fellow warrior hailing from the Jungle Tribe, clad in green and silver armor, and wielding a large Jungle Scythe. “Nidhiki!” shouted Gresh. “Hand over the mask!” Nidhiki turned around slowly and smiled. “Gresh,” he murmured. “Hello again, my old friend. It’s good to see you again.” Gresh grimaced. “You lost the right to call me ‘friend’ after what you did. You… you betrayed Okoto! You tried to sell us out to Kulta and the Skull Raiders!” He remembered that day. It was then that the young Gresh learned the hard way that not everyone was as idealistic or virtuous as himself. Shrugging, Nidhiki said, “See, now that unforgiving attitude is exactly why I left the Jungle Tribe.” “You were exiled,” Gresh pointed out. “Same difference,” said Nidhiki, rolling his eyes. “Now, see, the Hunters welcomed me with open arms. They don’t care what you’ve done in the past; as long as you do honest work, you get paid. And now, I see you’ve chosen a similar profession, Gladiator of Jungle.” “No,” insisted Gresh, shaking his head. “No. It’s not the same at all!” Nidhiki laughed. “Of course it is! Neither of us are heroes, Gresh. It’s not about honor or virtue; it’s about making a living in a harsh world. You get paid to fight, and at the end of the day, you’re awarded with a shiny mask of if you did well enough.” He lifted the Copper Mask as a visual aid. “By the way, congratulations on your victory, kid, and I’m sorry to cut the celebration short for you. But, sooner or later, you’ll learn that being a Gladiator isn’t all fun and games. The crowd may love you now, but once you start growing old and losing your edge, they’ll turn on you and hate you. As you stop winning, they’ll throw you to the Skull Scorpios. Malum knows this well, and it’s only a matter of time before you do, too.” “Enough!” snapped Gresh, unlimbering his chain and one Hook Blade. “Hand over the mask, or I’ll take it from you! It has no power or use to you!” Nidhiki did not seem intimidated by his display. “A Copper Mask of Victory, crafted by Ekimu and Makuta themselves? No, I think it does have some use to me. It’ll fetch a high price on the aftermarket. You want it? Come and take it from me!” Gresh charged at Nidhiki. He swung his chain, attempting to grab the Copper Mask out of Nidhiki’s hand. Instead, Nidhiki used his Jungle Scythe to intercept the claw, wrapping the chain around the shaft and yanking it to pull Gresh close. Then, with the scythe’s blade, the Hunter parried the Gladiator’s Hook Blade, sending sparks flying as the two metallic edges clashed. “Face it, Gresh,” hissed Nidhiki. “You’re no match for me. I’ve been fighting tougher opponents since before you even conceived your first thought.” Gresh chuckled. “Oh, Nidhiki. It’s such a shame you haven’t been here to see me in the arena, rooting for me and cheering me on to victory, like the rest of our tribe. Otherwise, you would’ve known from some of my previous games that I can do… this!” He felt the gears in his torso turning, clinking as they interacted with one another. Then, each of his thick arms separated in two, revealing his true form as a four-armed being. With his two newly-freed hands, he reached for and unsheathed the two additional Hook Blades strapped to his back. Gresh had caught Nidhiki off-guard. Spinning his arms rapidly, he forced the surprised Hunter to recoil. Gresh pressed his advantage and did not let up. With this tactic, he was determined not let any of his opponents get close enough to take the mask away from him. One of them attempted to disarm him, throwing their own weapons to knock two Hook Blades out of his hands, but he kept fighting with his extra limbs. He whipped his chain, latching onto one warrior’s shield, and was ready to pull it away. However, even with the extra power granted to him by the mask, he was still too frail and weak compared to his prime, and his foe pulled the chain right out of his hands. Still, he grabbed one of the other intruders, who had dared to come within arm’s reach, and then used their body as a shield to block an incoming attack. As the champion of the arena, he refused to go down easily, not to these imposters. “Make your choice, Gresh!” Gresh cursed silently to himself. He needed to concentrate on the fight, and these visions kept interfering with ability to stay focused. Gresh turned around and saw one of the other Hunters: a large bruiser who was clad in blue and white armor. The brute held an Okotan in one hand, and was strong enough to lift the villager in the air. Gresh gasped as he realized that the Okotan was none other than Tamaru, whose young innocent eyes were wide with terror. “You can’t have it both ways, Gladiator!” declared Nidhiki. “Either you save the poor helpless villager and let me escape with the Copper Mask… or you try to stop me, and Krekka bashes the villager’s skull in. Let’s see if you really are the hero you claim to be!” Gresh knew that the Copper Mask of Victory was one that he had coveted for years. As the Gladiator of Jungle, he fought each match in the arena with the dream of becoming champion. It was a priceless creation crafted by the greatest Mask Makers, and now it rightfully belonged to him. There was no choice to be made. Gresh charged at one of the two Hunters, bellowing a war cry as he did so. He swung his chain and used the claws to snatch his quarry right out of the Hunter’s hand. He spun his Hook Blades, swinging them down upon his foe. He did not stop until he was sure that his opponent was defeated. In his arms, he cradled the small delicate shape that he had taken from the Hunter. “Don’t worry,” Gresh whispered. “I’ve got you now. You’re safe… Tamaru.” Tamaru looked up at him and wrapped his arms around the Gladiator’s torso, hugging his savior. “Thank you, Gresh!” said the young Okotan. Suddenly, Gresh felt a sharp pain in his spine as a blade sliced through his armor. Gasping, he collapsed to the ground next to Krekka’s fallen form. He felt his energy slip away and was helpless to do anything about it. The only good fortune was that his body cushioned the fall for Tamaru, who was uninjured but very scared. Nidhiki stood over them, having stabbed Gresh in the back with his Jungle Scythe. He bent in close and murmured, “And now, you know what happens to heroes. Goodbye, Gresh.” The Hunter’s voice did not sound happy or proud of his victory, but was instead solemn. Perhaps he did not wish to mortally wound his old friend after all, but he had determined that the decisions leading to this point had led him to this path. With that, Nidhiki and the Hunters departed, taking the Copper Mask of Victory with them. His skill in the arena was not enough to save him. One of the warriors had gotten past his guard and taken the mask away from him for good, stripping away his newfound power. Another had bested him in his own element, bringing a mighty hammer down upon the lever. The games were finally over. Gresh took ragged breaths. He no longer had the strength left to even sit up. Instead, he laid upon the floor of the arena, curled up in a fetal position. Tamaru was still held close in his arms. The scared younger villager shook Gresh as he pleaded, “Get up! Please, Gresh! You have to get up!” Gresh knew that he could not get up. His destiny was clear now. But he could not leave Tamaru scared and alone. Instead, he lifted a trembling hand to gently caress Tamaru’s mask, hoping to comfort the young Okotan. “It’s… okay…” he whispered, struggling to speak when every word felt like a knife in his chest. “You… have to… be… strong, now… I… have to… go…” “I… I don’t understand!” cried Tamaru. “Where are you going? Why can’t you stay?” Summoning his remaining strength, Gresh turned his head and looked towards the sky. “Remember… the legends…? My spirit… will… ascend… to the… stars… to join… the… heroes…” Teary-eyed, Tamaru looked upward. “The stars?” he repeated. “You mean the… the legends of the red stars?” Gresh smiled. “Yes… and when… you see… the… stars… at night… think of me… and… I’ll be… watching…” Slowly, Tamaru nodded. “I… I will think of you! I’ll always remember you, Gresh! We’ll tell stories and sing songs about you!” As Gresh’s eyelids slowly shut, he whispered, “Now… I must… rest… peacefully…” Rest… Gresh’s eyes shot open. No, that couldn’t be right. He needed to rest. He should have been resting. Why wasn’t he resting? Something kept him awake. Something wrong. What was it? Dreams. Was that it? The visions that had plagued him all day. Every time he blacked out. What did they mean? They couldn’t have meant much. They could not have been the past; he had no memory of the events that unfolded before his eyes. They could not have been visions of the future, since he never known such a power in his whole life. No, he was just a simple Gladiator of Jungle who lived an honorable life as a beloved champion of the arena. That’s who he was. A thought took hold of Gresh. A terrible thought. A thought that chilled him straight to the bone. He did not want to think about it. But, like an itch, it would not go away. It took hold of him and he could not think about anything else. The dreams and visions… were his present reality. Fighting in the arena… becoming the champion… battling the Hunters… saving Tamaru… dying at Nidhiki’s hands… that was all just a dream. Or, more accurately, memories. Of a past life. One that he no longer had, because he had died. He was dead, and had been so for millennia. But, something had recently interrupted his peaceful rest. And now, against his will, he was forced to keep fighting in the arena, despite wishing that he could still rest. And he was fighting… Toa! But… no, that can’t be right. The Toa were heroes, according to legend. Why was he fighting them? Why did he oppose them? The bone-chilling answer was like a twisted knife to his heart. I’m not the hero, realized Gresh. I’m… I’m the villain. That was the last thing Skull Slicer thought before he plummeted into the abyss. ----- I was not planning on entering the Legend Continues contest, but last night I suddenly had an idea for a story. I just thought that the backstory of this particular Gen 2 character was very interesting and was disappointed that, canonically, it was never relevant to the plot. Of course, writing and editing the story in less than a day so I can submit it before the deadline by the skin of my teeth... well, that means that this is not one of my better-written or more-polished works, and therefore I'm willing to bet that this will not be the winning entry. Still, it was fun to write, and I hope you enjoyed reading it. Comments are appreciated. Constructive criticism is welcome.
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Hi all, Here's my shoddy, last-minute entry to The Legend Continues. It's my take on a G2 Exo-Toa automaton. I can't figure out how to upload images to BZPower using anything normal like Flickr or Imgur, so you'll have to follow one of these links. http://imgur.com/ZnXJeEl https://flic.kr/p/Vw37tW Best, -Waz
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"Arika!" Lewa called. "Come on back!" The young villager looked back at him. Arika was already halfway up a tree and hesitant about coming back down. Lewa stepped up to the base of the tree. "Here, hop down," he beckoned. "I'll catch you and carry you!" The child's face lit up beneath her brown mask and she carefully dropped down to where Lewa stood. He effortlessly caught her and lifted her up to sit on his shoulders. Lewa and the group of other villagers started moving again. "We should be more careful, Lewa," Kopaka said as the Uniter of Jungle resumed his place next to him. "If we were to lose anyone out here..." "I know, brother," Lewa said. "We do need to make sure everyone is safe, but I admit... I wish we could let them have some fun." He could feel Arika idly running her fingers along the ridges of his Mask. "We're out here, aren't we? Not cooped up in the City. There's some fun in that, I think." "Sure, but the tone is all wrong. Ekimu and the Protectors refuse to allow these walks without us accompanying them. We have to constantly worry about sticking together, about staying within sight of the City. I wish that the villagers could feel free to climb the trees they want to, to explore the land as they wish." "And one day, they will," Kopaka reassured him. "But not right now. We can't risk losing any more villagers to Umarak." "I know," Lewa said. Upon her insistence, he knelt and let Akira off his shoulders and she ran to catch up with her parents. "But I don't have to enjoy it." Kopaka kept looking at Akira's family, at other families in the group. "Do you think we could ever have something like that?" he asked. "To settle down, once this is all over. To have... a family?" Lewa looked at the Uniter of Ice curiously. "I'm not sure. Perhaps, if there were more like us." "Who is to say there aren't? Maybe there are many Toa across the sea, on the other side of the planet." "I think we would have heard them. Or the Okotans would have, at least." Kopaka nodded solemnly. "Are we doomed to loneliness then?" "I'm wounded!" Lewa said, hand to his chest. "Having five other Toa around isn't enough for you?" "It's not that, I just..." Lewa laughed and clapped the Uniter of Ice on the shoulder. "I understand. I've felt it too. Being surrounded by villagers doesn't make the feeling go away. They may bear the same color of armor, but it's not the same. They aren't the same. They don't know what it's like to wield this power, to have this duty, to be this tall. That's something only we six can share." "Right..." Kopaka said, nodding. "We'll always be there for each other, Kopaka," Lewa assured. Kopaka smiled. "That's enough, I think." After a few moments of peaceful silence, he continued: "So... what do you want, Lewa? Once this is all done." "After we defeat Makuta and the island is made whole again? Hmm..." He hadn't put much thought into this. There had been so many immediate problems to deal with over the past several months; indeed, since his first arrival on Okoto, that he hadn't found it necessary to plan that far ahead. "Suppose I'd have to find something to keep myself busy. I could... do tours." "Tours?" "Like this one." He gestured to the jungle around them. "Who better to give you a guided tour of the landscape than the Uniter of Jungle himself?" he said with a laugh. "Maybe I could even take a villager or two to the skies with me. I could take my own brand of freedom and share it with whoever would like to enjoy it with me." "And this would make you happy?" "I think it could. If I am enjoying myself and also bringing happiness to others, then yes. And I could always try other things too. Why just stick with one? Maybe I could get into cartography. Few can see the island from the perspective I can." "If Tahu were here, he'd have something to say about that," Kopaka chuckled. "Which is why we left him at the docks," Lewa acknowledged. "He's stuck doing work while you and I get the relaxing task of walking in nature. Well, relatively relaxing I suppose." Lewa looked through the trees and spotted a waterfall in the distance, almost completely blocked by trunks. A deep part of him wanted to spring to it at quickly as he could, to fully gaze upon its beauty and be refreshed by it, but another part of him wondered how many places a beast or Umarak himself could be hiding between where he stood and where the water stopped its fall. How many shadows that a hunter could pop out of... "I'm glad for this walk, Kopaka," Lewa said. "It's reminded me why we fight." He looked the Toa of Ice firmly in the eye. "We fight and protect the villagers, and I am proud and happy to do so. I would never abandon my duty. But I fight so that, in the end, the villagers don't need us. They can walk the woods, enjoy waterfalls, do all the things they want to do, and do them without fear. That's what I truly want for them." ++++++++ Tahu stood next to Gali on a dock, watching the Espian trade ship pull into harbor. Strange beings that wore no armor scurried across the deck of the distant ship. Tahu wasn't sure whether to be fascinated or revolted by the sight. He decided he could find something in the middle. "What was on this one again?" he asked. "Mostly more building materials," Gali said, looking over a manifest that had been sent in advance. "Cut stones and metal fixtures. Also some of their finer foods." "I trust we will be taking only the materials," Tahu said. Gali looked sidelong at him. "You don't think the villagers would enjoy the food?" "I don't think they need the food. We have enough as it is. We should be spending our resources on things we don't already have, things we need. The villagers can have their luxuries when the danger has passed." Gali nodded and discretely hid the page that recorded her agreement to trade several fine pearls she had found underwater for a few packages of sweet litimato bread, an Espian delicacy. "And how goes the building?" she asked. "It goes well," Tahu said. "Onua and Pohatu have the made the process surprisingly easy. Pohatu is able to lift stones that would be impossible for the villagers' makeshift cranes to carry, and Onua is able to test for stability. Even Ketar and Terak pitched in by helping carry materials." Talk of the others' creatures made him wonder where his own had gotten off to. He quickly spotted Ikir sitting on a dock post, looking out to sea. The creature seemed to be eyeing fish that were surfacing in the water, but he seemed hesitant. He still doesn't like the water... He shook his head, laughing internally, and continued: "The City should be fully fortified by the end of the month. From there, we can start branching out to the old settlements again. Maybe even reclaim some of the fallen Regional cities." "And what of them when this is over? Will Okoto still need its walls?" "Don't know. Maybe someday, there will be another attack from outside the island. If that happens, having more defenses won't hurt." Gali hummed and looked out to sea. She spotted a few villagers out on the waves, surfing on boards they themselves had crafted. Oh, to be out there with them... Tahu chuckled. "Surfing on water..." he said. "It pales in comparison to the Fire Region's lava surfing. Have you seen it?" "I have," Gali said with a smirk. "It looks slow and dangerous." "That's the fun of it," Tahu said. "And it's not slow. If you can find a good tunnel, the lava flows as swiftly as any sea wave. And you should see the boards... Some of them even rival my old board. You know, before all the new gear." "Do you even know how to surf?" Gali asked. "What's a fancy board with no skill in its rider?" "Well..." Tahu shrugged. "Not exactly. I bet you don't either, though." He nudged her playfully. "I bet Enirr could teach me. They say she's the best on the island. And if I become skilled at lava surfing, just imagine how good I'd be on water." "I'd like to see you try," Gali said. "I suppose we'll both have to train hard once this dark business has passed. And when the time comes..." "An epic showdown," Tahu said. "You're on!" He bumped fists with Gali, sealing their pact of competitive camaraderie. They sat there for a while, watching as the boat was unloaded, the sun setting slowly behind it. "I traded for some litimato bread," Gali said. She looked at Tahu, waiting for his reaction. Would he truly be angry? After a moment, he looked at her and grinned. "Well, I hope you're willing to share." ++++++++ "Ready for a lunch break, Pohatu?" Onua called. Pohatu did not reply. He was far too busy using his elemental abilities to nudge a stone in the wall to that it fit in perfectly with the stones around it. It had to be perfect, flush with every other piece... "Pohatu!" "Quiet," he murmured. "I've almost got it..." He kept his eyes trained on the stone above, willing it into place. His fingertips glowed with elemental energy as he reached out to the stone block, picturing where it should be, and pushing... There! With the barest whisper of sound, the stone slid into the perfect place. One could hardly even tell that it wasn't part of a larger, single block. Onua clapped slowly. "Well done, Toa of Perfectionism," he chuckled. "Now, if you're quite finished, I'm starving." His concentration broken, Pohatu now noticed how hungry he was as well. "Sorry," he said, not truly sorry at all. "I was so wrapped in the work..." "No time for explanations, only eating!" The Toa of Earth hurried him along to the lunch tent. This one had been specially constructed with longer than usual poles to accommodate the Toa's increased height. Under shelter from the sun, they found a table with bread, fruit, and meat on it. Simple fare, but nourishing nonetheless. Pohatu was rarely so grateful for food. He felt Ketar nudging against him. "Not for you," Pohatu said, holding away his piece of fruit. "We'll find something more suitable for you later." He turned to find Onua finished feeding a slab of meat to Terak, the creature's clawed paws stuffing his face. Well then... He idly tossed the fruit to Ketar, who snatched it out of the air. He seemed to chew slowly, savoring the taste, as if he knew this was a rare treat, an exception made out of mild guilt. Ketar didn't mind, for it was delicious. "Can't wait for this business to be over," Onua mumbled, working on preparing himself some food. "All this working in the sun is a nightmare! I think perhaps there is a reason that we with black armor were meant to be underground..." Pohatu hummed as he got his food. "Do you miss your Region?" Onua gave him a curious look. "Well, of course. As I'm sure you miss yours." "Do we really, though?" Pohatu sat next to the Toa of Earth. "We only lived in them for what, a month? A month and a half? And we were so busy dealing with skull spiders and raiders that we hardly had a chance to get to know the place. Can we truly become attached to them without spending time with them?" Onua chewed and thought. "Perhaps," he mused, "it's not about whether we know them. It's more like... we're a part of them." When Pohatu said nothing, he continued. "I'm not sure if you feel the same, but when I was in the Region of Earth, I felt... at home. That's the only way I can think to describe it. It was the place where I belonged, the place of my element. Like you said, I didn't spend much time there, didn't really get to explore or anything. But I talked to the villagers. I talked to Korgot, our Protector. I fought beside them against the spiders. Those experiences... they mean something, Pohatu. I may not be as familiar with my Region as the natives, and it may not be a traditional care, but I do care. It became my home." Pohatu nodded. "Lucky," he said. "In my Region... I don't know what it was, but it never really felt like home. What was different...?" Onua leaned towards his brother. "Pohatu," he said. "You and I are not the same. You are allowed to have different experiences than I have had." "But I wish that I felt as you did," said the Toa of Stone. "You say you miss the Region of Earth. You have a passion for it, to return and save it from the shadow. But me... If I'm totally honest, I don't feel that way for the Region of Stone. Not beyond the obligatory sense of it. I feel like if I could just have had more time there, maybe it could've been home." Onua patted his shoulder. "That time will come, brother. When all this business with Makuta is finished, we can return to our Regions and settle in. You can explore, play, build, do everything you want to in your Region. It is of your element. Surely you will hear its call eventually." Pohatu picked up and eyed a fruit from his plate. "You know, I recognize this one. An utuyote. Native to the Stone Region, grows underground for some reason..." Onua punched him in the shoulder. "We'll get a love for your Region out of you yet." Pohatu grinned, split the fruit, and gave half of it to Ketar (who practically danced around with joy at his second helping). "You're going to spoil him if you keep tha--" Onua stopped as he was nudged by Terak. The creature looked expectant. Onua sighed. "Now look what you've made me do." The Toa of earth tossed another bit of meat down to Terak. "I'm tempted to give that wall an earthquake and nudge your little stone out of place again." Pohatu laughed and hoped that he was joking. ++++++++ Narmoto closed the door to Ekimu's forge gently as he stepped inside. Had he not been as acclimatized to heat as he was, he might have found the place unbearable. The Mask Maker appeared hard at work, but he could not put this off any longer. "Ekimu," he called. The Mask Maker turned to face him. "Ah, Narmoto!" he said. "Just in time. Come, help me with this. Crank that handle there. Yes, a bit more... stop! Did it get too hot...? No no, it's perfect. Aha!" Using long grabbers, he pulled a glowing hot mask from the forge. "A fine Mask of Strength this shall be. Quite popular in Derakan, I am told." "Ekimu," Narmoto said again, tone hardening. "We need to talk." Ekimu hesitated before setting aside the new Mask. "Of course," he said. "What is the matter?" "You have not told the Toa everything," the Protector of Fire said. "Regarding their destiny." Ekimu sighed. "It is better that they don't know for now. When the time comes, all will be revealed, I assure you." "You would let them continue living a lie? Even now, the Toa discuss what life will be like for them when this is finished. And surely we are close to the end now. When will you tell them that nothing awaits them at journey's end?" "We don't know that," Ekimu snapped. "Perhaps the line about the stars is... metaphorical." "Even so," Narmoto said, "the Toa have done much for us. They deserve the truth. It is the least we can offer them." Ekimu eyes hardened. "You want them to know the truth?" he said. "Go on. Go out and tell them. Tell Tahu that he won't be able to participate in the lava surfing competitions. Tell Pohatu he will never learn to carve. Tell Gali that she will never be able to explore the depths of the sea. Tell them all that the only thing that awaits them after they defeat Makuta is the cold blackness of space." Narmoto said nothing. "As I thought," Ekimu harumphed. "And who knows? If the Toa knew such things, they may lose heart." "I think you underestimate their spirit," Narmoto said. "I think it isn't worth the risk. I will wait to tell them until the outcome is decided regardless of their whether they know what is coming. That way, the prophecy will be fulfilled, Makuta will be defeated, and then Okoto will be safe again." Narmoto harumphed and readjusted his cloak, making to head for the exit. "Wise you may be, Mask Maker, but I think that of honor, you still have much to learn." "Honor will not save us, Narmoto," Ekimu called as the Protector of Fire opened the door. "You would trade the security of their success for such a simple thing as the truth?" Narmoto gave the Mask Maker one last look. "In the blink of an eye." And he slammed the door shut. ------------------------------------------ Whew, I think I made it in time. This was fun to write. I've never done something quite like it, with not much in terms of plot, just a lot of dialogue. I hope it achieved the effect I was going for. And yes, this obviously diverges from the canon in that there is a large gap of time between when the Toa lose the Mask of Control to Umarak and when Umarak starts openly ransacking everything as in the latter half of JtO. I liked the idea of the Toa having some downtime and this seemed like a good place to put it. Anyways, let me know what you thought! I always love to hear from readers. And if you don't feel like commenting, just having read the story is enough for me. Thanks!
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This is my entry into the Legends Continues contest. Continuity-wise, this would fit in the aftermath of Makuta's wearing of the Mask of Ultimate Power, the chaotic energy from the event having changed their physical bodies and left them as shells of who they once were. Initial inspiration spawned from a drawing of a skull MoUP done in the last Inktober and after, I also did a quick sketch of a skull MoCr. Additional inspiration also came from hours of playing Witcher 3 and some discussions comparing the MoUP and MoCr to the helms of the Witch King of Angmar and Sauron.
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Vezon’s Visit With little hope remaining and nothing left to lose, the Toa battled against the mighty Umarak, doing their best to stop his ritual of opening the door to the Shadow Realm and releasing Makuta. With their weapons thrown into the portal and out of sight, the five remaining Toa were left with only their strength and will to stop Umarak from allowing Makuta to cover Okoto in darkness. “It’s too late,” said Toa Kopaka, helping Toa Onua to his feet after Umarak threw him against the wall. “Look!” Kopaka pointed towards Umarak as his ritual neared completion, but just then Kopaka’s focus shifted to the sudden appearance of a grey figure in a black cloak. The figure stumbled into view between the Toa and Umarak, seeming to have entered through another portal. “Ugh, this dimensional travel doesn’t get any easier,” said the cloaked figure, nearly falling to his knees. He looked up to see the five Toa standing tall in front of him, all still breathless from battle. “Oh,” the figure said, slightly surprised at the sight, “hello. Good day. My name is…Toa Vezon. You appear to be Toa, yes?” “Yes,” said Toa Tahu. “I am Tahu, Toa of—” “Fascinating,” Vezon interrupted. “I couldn’t help but notice you have no weapons. Do you have any special powers I should know about? Or certain weaknesses an enemy would greatly value?” “Our weapons were stolen by Umarak,” Toa Onua said, pointing to the towering beast, “and we cannot summon our elements here.” Well, what fun are Toa with no weapons or powers, Vezon thought. Can’t even give me the pleasure of stealing the weapons and using a fire sword against the ice Toa. “You’re finished, Toa,” Umarak shouted. “You cannot stop me.” Vezon turned around to face the shouting Umarak, his large claws, horns, and thorny green body mesmerizing Vezon’s vision. “That is one ugly creature,” Vezon said, as Umarak raised his clawed hands to the sky. “Well, I’ve seen worse, even before I destroy them, but still.” Ekimu approached the new arrival with his confused eyes squinting behind his mask. “Your name is Vezon?” Ekimu asked. “I’m mostly certain, but I can check again if you’d like.” Vezon said. “Has your world heard the name before?” “No,” Ekimu said, as he drew closer and closer to Vezon’s mask, “I have never heard that name before. That’s the problem.” “Oh,” Vezon said slowly, “that’s not good. Or maybe it is good. Not sure.” “But,” Ekimu muttered, “the prophesy…” “NO!” Umarak let out a loud shout. His body glowed a bright purple before shattering into pieces, leaving only his mask intact. After Umarak’s mask ascended into the portal, a blinding light from the portal surrounded and area and then was gone. The portal was open. “Makuta was using him the whole time,” Pohatu said. “Ah, so Makuta exists in this strange place to, huh?” Vezon said. “He always ends up being a major enemy to someone.” Just then, Makuta’s large body began to emerge from the portal. “See, there he is,” Vezon said. “Definitely shorter than when I last saw him, but really what wasn’t.” “This part of the prophesy was meant to be,” Ekimu said, “but not everything is going as foretold.” Ekimu raised his eyebrow, as he glanced over at Vezon. “What?” Tahu gasped. “Makuta can’t win.” Vezon opened his mouth. “Well…” he said, preparing to prove the Toa wrong; but after seeing how much stronger Makuta looked after a second glance, he felt his energy could be better spent elsewhere. Now would be a good time to leave, please, Vezon said to himself, clanging his fist against his fused Kanohi Olmak. As Makuta grew clearer in view, a blue light flew from the portal and swirled above the Toa’s heads. “What is that?” Tahu said. “It’s Gali!” Lewa shouted in excitement. The blue light swirled around before landing back into Gali’s motionless body and returning it to life. The Toa praised her return, but she wasted no time. “I was in the ancient city. I’ve seen the proph—wait, who is this,” Gali said, pointing at Vezon. “Oh we go way back,” Vezon said. “Maybe an eon or two. You don’t remember me, uhh…Gala?” “But…but the prophesy made no mention of…of…this,” she said, her head turning back and forth between Vezon and Ekimu. “I do not know what it is,” Ekimu said uneasily. “What did the prophesy say?” Ekimu asked the question more sincerely than he liked. He didn’t forget the prophesy, did he? “Okay,” Gali said, shaking her head. “I learned that we don’t pull our elemental power from the planet, but it’s the planet that pulls its elemental power from us. We are the elements!” Her excitement returned to her, as she turned towards the Makuta and shot a blast of her elemental water power from her chest. The other Toa looked on in awe and disbelief. “This is our destiny,” she shouted. “We will merge our powers and end this.” “But if we merge our power,” Pohatu said, “it will be the last thing we do.” Gali looked at Pohatu with assurance; he knew what had to be done. “This ends now!” Pohatu said, as he rose above the ground and shot his elemental power at the emerging Makuta. One by one, the Toa floated into the air and shot their elemental powers towards Makuta, as he shot his dark powers back at them in a tug-of-war between light and shadow. Come on, Makuta, Vezon said to himself, rolling his eyes. Are you telling me that you can’t defeat six Toa with no weapons? What kind of Makuta is this? As the Toa’s elemental power continued to strike Makuta, it became certain that Makuta could not keep up with the Toa’s unified strength. “In the name of the elements,” Onua commanded, “we banish you to the Realm of Shadow!” Hold on, Vezon thought, if these Toa defeat Makuta—who is likely the top enemy here—then this world will be at peace. Peace! Yuk! No, no, no, can’t let these people have it that easy. Vezon walked over to Toa Pohatu, grabbed his leg, and pulled him to the ground, disconnecting his elemental power beam from Makuta. “NO!” Pohatu shouted. “What have you done?!” “Shh, I want to see what happens,” Vezon said, his eyes fixed on the Makuta. As the remaining five Toa watched their brother fall, they continued to hold back Makuta a few more seconds with their elemental powers, but the missing link of their unity was enough for Makuta’s power to prevail. With the Toa in shock and one link short, Makuta’s shadow shot back at the Toa, knocking them hard to the rock behind them. With the Toa down, Makuta emerged from the portal, fully revealing his black, gold, and fire-red figure. “Yes. I have returned!” Makuta shouted as he slowly stood from the dark ground. “Darkness has overcome light.” “No,” Ekimu said. “This is not how it is supposed to be!” Ekimu and the Toa all looked at Vezon in shock of what happened, but Vezon was busy staring at Makuta. After a few seconds, the Toa’s silence got his attention. He turned around and saw each Toa staring at him, now in anger. “Oh!” Vezon said. “Yeah, I lied. I’m not a Toa. And even if I was I’d be a really defiant one. Or a great one if you ask me.” “Darkness will rule this land forever!” Makuta shouted, as he raised his staff and began releasing his shadow in all directions. “Oh-no…” Ekimu said, falling to his knees and holding his head, “what do we do? Oh what do we do what do we do what do we…” The weaponless Toa stood tall against Makuta, but mentally they were out of ideas. The only thing they knew for sure was Vezon was not a friend. Just then, Vezon could feel his fused Kanohi Olmak reacting again. A small smile crept behind his mask. “You know,” Vezon said to the enraged Toa, “I would love to stay and explain why your world would become incredibly boring without me or Makuta, but this mask is taking over again. Wish I could watch, but oh well. Enjoy, Toa!” And as suddenly as he appeared, Vezon was gone.
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Fernus is my submission to the building section of The Legend Continues. He's inspired by many of the villains from the art book and is my idea for the fire "canister-sized" villain for year three. Story-wise, he's supposed to be an elite warrior that dwells in the Shadow Realm, eagerly waiting for the Toa to arrive so that he can play his part in destroying them once and for all.
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Kulta the Skull Grinder inhaled the musky air of the boneyard and exhaled hungrily. There were souls to harvest here, make no mistake. With each step he took, grey dust swirled up from millennia of abandonment. What had once been the island's centre of culture and glory was now only home to plant-covered ruins and bones. How proud the Okotans had been, driving away Kulta and his people, and now their homes were nothing more than ashes. The old shaman inhaled again. The soul he was seeking was nearby. His dark master Makuta had been quite clear on the power of the Toa. He would need an army unlike anything the island had seen before to stop them. He had his pawns the Skull Warriors, his knights the Skull Scorpios, and his fortress the Skull Basher; but Kulta required one more piece. To be sure, the Skull Basher was a mighty warrior, his closest ally and bodyguard, but Kulta was no fool. A combination of brains and brawn would be needed to win the day. He needed a lieutenant who could rely on cunning and surprise to outwit the Toa. As his staff began to glow, Kulta smiled. He could sense a great intellect, athletic skill, and an unbreakable tie to this world. This spirit was clinging to its bones like a castaway clinging to a log. Just the sort of being worth reviving. Drawing wide a circle in the ashy ground with his staff, Kulta began the dark incantation. Mel kay tor nu sorga Makuta no mel kun. Mel kay tor nu sorga Makuta no mel kun. MEL KAY TOR NU SORGA MAKUTA NO MEL KUN! The circle in the dirt began to glow green and the spirits of the dead swirled around him. Wailing such terrible things, dead Okotans reliving their final painful hours, cries that contained a lifetime of sorrow. Kulta ignored them and continued his chant. The wind billowed and the ground shook until bones and armour slowly emerged from the grey soil. Kulta's voice began to grow hoarse, but he focused with all his might as the bones began to form a body: a figure with four arms. Kulta stopped his chanting and the wind died down and the ground settled back to stillness. He surveyed the revenant as the creature stood completely still. Slowly, it began to move its limbs and flex its fingers. With green bones and silver armour adorning its four arms, the creature cut an imposing figure. After a few moments surveying its body, the revenant spoke. "What... what happened? Where are they?" "My dear friend," said Kulta unctuously. "Welcome back to the world of the living." "I... was I dead?" asked the creature. "For thousands of years, I'd say. I am the Skull Grinder, your new master. You will be a lieutenant in my Skull Army." "Master? Skull Army? I don't have time for this. I have to find them!" "I was afraid of this," sighed Kulta, Reaching into his pack, Kulta pulled out a writhing silver Skull Spider. "I don't know who you were in your former life, Revenant, and quite frankly I don't care. I didn't bring you back to put your soul to rest, I need you to serve me." As he spoke, he idly plucked the legs off the now screeching Skull Spider. The revenant began to slowly back away, but Kulta was too quick for him. He jammed the legless Skull Spider on the creature's bony face and held it there firmly as it tried to fight him off. Soon the Skull Spider's will won out and the creature sank to the ground, kneeling before its new master. "Rise, Skull Slicer, lieutenant of the Skull Army." *** Darkness. Screaming. Who was I? Who am I looking for? How did I die? With the Skull Spider on his face, the world appeared dark and fractured to him. Visions of the ruined city flashed before returning to the darkness. He felt like a prisoner in his own body. Fleetingly, he would regain control before being pushed aside by the will of the arachnid affixed to his face. So there was nothing to do but to collect his thoughts. Another flash of vision, and he could see a hexagonal pattern of stone tiles. The arena... Of course, the Hammer Flush arena. He had loved the arena. It had once been all he had lived for. The excitement, the thrill; his heart was already racing thinking about it. Yes, it was all coming back to him. He had not lived here -- he had thrived! As the Skull Spider led his bones through the ruined stadium, he could see a plaque honouring past champions. "Yes, this was once me," he muttered, running a bony hand along the inscription. Clearing away the moss that had grown over, he could see a single word: Brelnar. "My... my name. I am Brelnar." It was as if a dam broke and he was hit by a deluge of memory. He could see himself nimbly leaping through the arena, hammer aloft, opponents on every side, and loving every moment of it. Flames shot past him and he used his hammer to vault up to the next level, only to come face to face with a steely-looking Earth Okotan. The Earth Okotan swung his hammer at Brelnar, but Brelnar was too quick for him. Leaping in the air at the right moment, he landed on his foe's hammer, grabbed onto his shoulder armour, and flipped him onto his back. "Shoulder armour is just going to slow you down, my friend," Brelnar laughed, resuming his climb to the top. It was not long before his hammer hit the lever at the top, signalling the end of the game. The crowd cheered, confetti rained through the stadium, and medals were handed out. It was then, with all eyes on him, that he had proposed to Yanua. "Yanua... my... my wife..." said the Skull Slicer, as a feeling of intense heartbreak tore him out of his reverie. Thousands of years had passed. Surely she was long gone by now. As the sorrow spread through his heart, so too did the Skull Spider's will spread through his mind once more, returning him to the darkness. More ruins. More cracked stones. More collapsed buildings. Suddenly something in the air. Something green. Toa... hissed the Skull Spider in his mind. The Skull Slicer's body leaped nimbly through the ruined city until it reached the entrance to the arena. He slipped into the shadows and waited. Soon enough, the green Toa flew in and proceeded to study the ruins. Get me that mask... growled an even darker voice within his mind. With all the skill of a well-trained athlete, the Skull Slicer shot out his chain and grabbed the mask right off the green Toa's face. The Toa fell to the ground, unconscious, while the Skull Slicer examined his prize. Even in the dark city, the golden mask seemed to shine. Clutching it in his lower hands, the Skull Slicer could feel its power radiating through him. His hands felt like fertile soil, the energy of the mask stimulating growth and life in them. His heart felt like a kite caught in the breeze. Brelnar's memories began to surface once more... Many years had passed since that championship, and as he gazed at his hearth he could see that he had won many more medals since then. Exotic jungle birds called from outside, as the smells of a berry pie baking in the oven filled the small cottage. A clatter at the door told him someone had arrived. He turned to see his wife, Yanua, and their... daughter. Yes, a daughter. "Father!" she cried, rushing to hug him. "Well if it isn't the birthday girl," laughed Brelnar, straightening out her mask. "Happy birthday, Tellena, my little rose." "Mother tells me you were at the blacksmith today. Any particular reason why?" she asked, with a heavy tone of feigned ignorance. "I'm sorry, dear," sighed Yanua. "I know you wanted it to be a surprise, but she's just so persistent!" "Well, now that the spider is off its net, you might as well open it," said Brelnar, gesturing to a large wrapped present in the sitting room. "I hope you like it. It's not everyday a young woman turns fourteen." Tellena tore open her gift and stared at it for a moment before laughing in disbelief. "Shoulder armour? What ever happened to mister 'shoulder armour slows you down'? How am I supposed to play Hammer Flush in this?" Brelnar laughed wryly. "Yes, yes. We all remember my first championship, but this is something a bit more serious, little rose. There are whispers that our two mask makers no longer see eye to eye. If things should turn sour, if it should come to war, I want this family to be protected. For you, little rose, a set of armour with spikes -- thorns to keep you safe. For Yanua, I had them restore your grandfather's armour from the Region of Fire. It's a bit big, but it should keep you safe." "Honestly, dear! Is all this really necessary?" said Yanua in exasperation. "I have no idea," said Brelnar grimly. "I just want this family to be safe. I want us to be together." With a painful jolt, the Skull Spider brought the Skull Slicer back to the present. While he had been holding the mask, the green Toa's allies had arrived. The Skull Spider cackled and directed his body into the arena. Use the mask... growled the darker voice again. The Skull Spider screamed in his mind, but the Skull Slicer suddenly felt the darker voice give him the strength to tear the creature off his face and put on the green Toa's golden mask. Energy surged through his body, and his mind was once again transported to the past. It was the tournament of champions. One Okotan from each region was competing for the glory of their homeland. An Earth Okotan ran right for him, before being trapped in the arena's shifting pillars. Suddenly the Skull Slicer found two of his arms pinned by a Stone Okotan's weapons while Okotans of Fire and Ice charged towards him. Knocking the Ice Okotan aside, he grabbed the Fire Okotan with his two remaining arms and... No, this isn't right... I only had two arms... A swift punch from the Ice Okotan knocked off his mask and he was jolted back to reality. These weren't Okotans at all, they were the Toa. Before he could react or call out to them, the big Toa with a hammer hit the lever, the floor vanished beneath him, and he fell. When the arena had been maintained, there was a pool of water at the bottom to catch any losing athletes, but that pool had long since dried up. The Skull Slicer fell through the darkness for some time before clattering to the ground, instantly shattering his leg bones. It was not long until the rest of the arena collapsed on top of him, years of disrepair and neglect had taken their toll. He found himself covered in rubble, unable to move, and yet still alive. He did not hunger, he did not breathe. He could not tell how long it had been since the Skull Grinder had resurrected him, but he did not recall having a meal. Perhaps he was unable to die. Perhaps he was condemned to this existence until the end of time. But what of his wife and daughter? What had become of them? He thought back to his last memory, of Tellena's birthday. Why had he thought of that day when he had put the mask on? Had the mask been trying to show him something? It just ended with his daughter opening the shoulder armour he had gotten her. What ever happened to mister 'shoulder armour slows you down'? The words echoed through his mind. I've never worn shoulder armour, he realized. Then the rest of the memory poured into his mind. It was that same day. For her birthday, Tellena had requested that they go watch the rookie league play at the arena, hoping that she might get to meet one of the coaches to improve her chances in the tryouts next year. It was as they were watching the game that the cataclysm struck. A huge shockwave of energy from the north swept through the city, knocking down trees and buildings and causing all sorts of environmental disasters. Rivers flooded, fires raged, and blizzards whipped across the land despite the summer weather. An earthquake rocked the foundations of the arena and large pieces of the ceiling began falling. "What's happening, father?" cried Tellena. "It's the mask makers! It has to be!" Brelnar shouted back, ushering his family through the bleachers as chaos rained down upon them. With a loud snap, the floor gave way beneath Tellena and Yanua, sending them falling two storeys to the ground. Seeing the roof above them about to collapse, Brelnar dove after them, but it was no use. The large slab of stone landed on the family, sealing all three in their grave. So these arms.... it's them. Yanua, Tellena... If the Skull Slicer had been able to cry, he surely would have. This was where his memories came from. This was what he was searching for. This was why he was clinging to his bones. And now that he had found them, he could finally let go.
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- legend continues
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Ekimu shielded his eyes from a blinding flash of white light. When the light cleared, Ekimu was given only a brief final glimpse of the six Toa before their physical forms dissipated before his him. His eyes widened as they transformed into six beams of elemental energy. The spirits of the Toa rapidly ascended into the heavens above. After soaring through Okoto’s atmosphere, the spirits of the six Toa settled into six stars in the sky above.Ekimu felt a strange mix of emotions following the sacrifice of his allies, the Toa. He felt relieved that his brother, Makuta, had been defeated at last. The Toa Seal that had been created would ensure that Makuta would be trapped in the Shadow Realm forever. When Ekimu had donned the Mask of Time a millennia before, he had seen what could transpire. He had told the Toa what they had needed to do based on what the Mask of Time had revealed to him. And yet, he knew in his heart that destiny was not written in stone, it determined by individuals. The Toa had chosen to give their lives to defeat Makuta, but only because Ekimu had told them what his own Prophecy said.The Mask Maker had a heavy feeling in his chest. He suddenly felt a chill despite the desert heat of the Region of Stone, the region where the Black Crater was located. Deep down, Ekimu came to the realization that he was directly responsible for losing not only his brother but also his friends, the Toa. Even before the Great Cataclysm, Ekimu had come to suspect the envy his brother had for him. But instead of trying to help his brother with these feelings, Ekimu shut Makuta out, allowing his brother’s anger to further develop. Despite their differences, Ekimu loved Makuta, and Ekimu now realized that had he only extended his brotherly love when Makuta needed it the most, perhaps none of this would have happened. Makuta would have never forged the Mask of Ultimate Power, and the Great Cataclysm would never have happened. The hundreds of Okotans who were trapped in the Shadow Realm during the cataclysm, who were now trapped there for all eternity thanks to the Toa Seal, would have been able to live the rest of their lives to the fullest with their friends and families. There would have been no reason for the Toa to have been pulled from their own universe to that of Okoto and ultimately give their lives for a land that wasn’t even theirs. If Ekimu had only tried to help Makuta, many lives would not have been ruined.Ekimu was exhausted and weak after reverting back to his original form. He needed to find shelter for the night so that he could rest and process his ordeal. The Mask Maker climbed out of the crater and began to make his way across the desert of the Region of Stone. The desert was bare and empty, and seemingly stretched on forever. As he crossed the region, Ekimu saw heard the howling of some wolves in the distance. The wolves were native to the Region of Stone, and Ekimu remembered Pohatu mentioning his fondness for the creatures. Perhaps, Ekimu thought, the wolves were howling at the star where Pohatu’s spirit was now located. Perhaps this was their way of mourning the death of the Toa of Stone’s. Ekimu just needed to make it to the next village, where he knew he could find someone that would allow him to spend the night. Eventually, Ekimu noticed a campfire in the distance. He began to approach the light, and was noticed by Nilkuu, the current Protector of Stone.“Master Ekimu!” Nilkuu called. “I could see the flash of light from my village! What happened? Has Umarak been defeated? Where are the Toa?”“It’s a long story,” Ekimu said with a sigh. “If you’ll kindly allow me into your home, I shall tell it to you.”––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––“So…you mean to say Pohatu and the others are dead?” Nilkuu nervously asked after Ekimu had finished his account of the night’s events.“They have sacrificed their bodies and their spirits were sent to the stars. For all intents and purposes, I’m afraid they are,” Ekimu replied solemnly. “But it could have all been avoided had I only tried to reason with Makuta.”“But the Toa had a duty to Okoto- you said it was their destiny to give their lives to save us!” The Protector of Stone said.“But you forget, the Toa were not born on Okoto. We pulled them here, from their own time and universe, and we were the ones to give them that duty. Perhaps the Toa had friends of their own in their world: friends who wonder what has become of them and will never learn of their whereabouts.”“You talk in theoretics, Ekimu. What if you had been able to help Makuta a millennia ago? What if you had found some alternative to the sacrifice of the Toa? If Makuta had never started any of this, it is impossible to predict what our world would be like right now. There were plenty of other evil forces at work. Perhaps Kulta or Umarak the Hunter could have been the one to try to conquer Okoto the same way Makuta did. With all the evil in our world, it was only a matter of time before things went bad. We do not have time to dwell on such things. Even now, the Elemental Creatures are hunting down the last of the Shadow Horde and Skull Spiders. Once the last traces of the Shadow have been destroyed, we will need to build a future, and need you to lead us into that future. In fact, it is your duty to lead us. Stop looking into the past and instead into the future!”“The future…” Ekimu pondered. “I only knew what was to be described in the Prophecy of Heroes by looking into the Mask of Time. Perhaps if I look again answers with be revealed,”“Go to the Temple of Time and see what the Mask reveals to you. But if I may make a suggestion, perhaps it is best you first inform Okoto what has happened to the Toa.”“You are right,” Ekimu said. “The Okotans must know of the Toa’s heroics and Makuta’s defeat. Tomorrow, contact the other Protectors. Tell them to inform their tribes that they should gather at the City of the Mask Makers for a memorial service. After we commemorate the Toa properly, I’ll journey to the Region of Jungle to visit the Temple of Time. ”––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––For the first time in a over millennia, Okoto was to celebrate the Festival of Masks. In the time before Makuta’s betrayal, the festival celebrated the ancient Protectors and the masks worn by all Okotoans. Instead of commemorating the Protectors, this Festival honored the Toa and displayed their Elemental Masks that they were wearing when they first arrived. These Masks had been discarded once the Golden Masks of Power were claimed by their respective wearers. Following Ekimu’s awakening, the original Elemental Masks had been left in Ekimu’s care. Ekimu had never seen the Toa wearing these Masks, and had never taken a good look at them before. But as Ekimu gathered the Mask to be put on display, he noticed something very strange about them. It was common knowledge that all Masks on Okoto were powered by the Elemental Crystals. And yet, these masks did not contain elemental crystals at all, and were powered by some other means. Whatever these Masks were made of, they were nothing like the ones made by Ekimu. From his many centuries of experience with Mask-making, Ekimu had grown used to the feeling of elemental energy radiating from masks. But these Toa masks felt different. It was almost as if there was more than just elemental power coming from the Masks. Perhaps, Ekimu speculated, that the Masks the Toa had arrived in had other abilities they had only forgotten to use.Each Mask was displayed on a pedestal in the center of the ancient city. Thousands of Okotans gathered around the Masks, staring at them in awe. Since the Toa had only been on Okoto for a few short weeks, many of the Okotans had never seen the Toa and relied only upon the stories and rumors surrounding their activities. Seeing these foreign masks once worn by the Toa seemed to validate their existence to the gathered masses.Ekimu noticed the six Elemental Creatures watching the celebration. The Creatures had defeated the rest of the Shadow Horde, and had been hunting down the last of the Skull Spiders. With the death of Umarak, the Creatures no longer had to hide, and could live among the Okotans in peace. However, with the destruction of the Golden Masks of Unity in the sacrifice of the Toa, it would be impossible to communicate with the creatures. Ekimu stood before the gathered islanders to speak.“Gathered friends,” Ekimu began. “I have news for you all. The evil Makuta has been defeated at last! The remnants of his forces have been hunted down and destroyed by the Elemental Creatures and the Protectors. But our ultimate victory came with a great cost. Our beloved Toa gave their lives to defeat Makuta once and for all. I have called this special Festival of Masks in their memory. May all Okoto forever remember their heroism.”The Okotans were silent, digesting this news. They were surprised by how abruptly the battle against Makuta had ended, and that the Toa they had heard talk of were gone forever.“The Toa have brought peace to Okoto. But perhaps more importantly, they have inspired us to maintain that peace. During the final confrontation with the Shadow Horde, many Okotans rose to the challenge of joining the Elemental Creatures in battle and helped to defeat them. Should evil rise again in the future, I have faith that the people of Okoto will follow the example of the Toa and rise to that challenge. But now is not that time; now is the time for peace. Please, enjoy the festival and remember the Toa!”There was a polite but rather unenthusiastic round of applause. The Okotans were understandably distressed and conflicted over the whole ordeal. However, for the first time in a millennia, they were hopeful for the future. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––The next day, Ekimu flew his newly-rebuilt airship. Since his awakening, Ekimu had not had much time to re-explore Okoto’s regions. After the Okotans had fled the City of the Mask Makers following the Cataclysm, many villages had been arisen in the individual Regions. Many of them had been burned to the ground by Umarak the Destroyer. The Region of Jungle was quite desolate at this point, with many of its villages destroyed. The Temples that housed Uxar, the Creature of Jungle, and the one housing the Golden Mask of Jungle had now been abandoned. But Ekimu did not have time to focus on that now; his attention was instead towards his destination: the Temple of Time.Ekimu entered the Temple and removed the Mask of Time from its vault. It had once given him the answers he needed, and perhaps in his confusion it would do so again. The Mask Maker hesitated for a moment before donning it. Even if the Mask of Time revealed the answers he sought, perhaps he would not like them. But Ekimu knew he had to try and obtain closure for his whole ordeal, and pressed onward, taking his own Mask of Creation off and replacing it with the Mask of Time.––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––Almost instantaneously, an image began to form before Ekimu’s eyes. It was soon recognizable as a workshop, not unlike Ekimu’s own. However, this was not a place Ekimu was familiar with. Six lifeless figures were strewn across six individual tables. As Ekimu stared intently at the figures he felt a sense of familiarity towards the figures. Suddenly, it hit him: these were the six Toa! All six were far smaller in stature and wore more simplistic armor than when they had arrived on Okoto, but were still recognizable as Tahu, Gali, Onua, Lewa, Kopaka, and Pohatu.Ekimu reasoned he must be witnessing the birth of the Toa, and that this was the universe from which they were originally from. But because this was the place the Toa were constructed, their creator was presumably not far away. Ekimu looked around the workshop and saw another figure, one that made him gasp in awe. The figure was massive, at about ten feet tall. His armor was gray-green and carried a massive hammer. But the most surprising thing about the figure was his mask- he was wearing the Mask of Creation, identical to the Mask Ekimu now owned. Ekimu did not know what to make of this, he had never known where his Mask came from but he never would have imagined it was from another universe entirely. Back when Ekimu had originally learned of the existence of the Toa through the Mask of Time a millennia ago, the Mask had also revealed their names to him. Similarly, Ekimu could now sense the figure’s name: Artakha.Before Ekimu could process this any further, the vision shifted to more rapid flashes. He saw elemental heroes similar to the Toa he knew, however these were not the same beings. He was able to sense that these six collectively had a specific name: Metru. These “Toa Metru” had gathered six disks, each with a color corresponding to one of the six elements. The Toa Metru of Fire, who Ekimu could sense was named “Vakama,” began to craft what Ekimu knew was the mysterious lower half of the Mask of Time. This part of the vision was actually somewhat familiar to Ekimu during a previous experience wearing the Mask of Time, he had witnessed this lower half being forged. This is why he had known about the existence of the lower half and the mask’s name: “Vahi.” He then saw Toa Vakama using the Vahi to fight a massive, shadowy figure. Ekimu was startled by the larger figure’s resemblance to his brother, Makuta. He was even more startled by the name of the figure as revealed to him by the Mask: “Makuta Teridax.” Ekimu could tell his was not the same entity as his brother. However, he still sensed a connection between the two.Suddenly, the scene changed again. Ekimu was back in Artakha’s workshop. Artakha was hard at work crafting a Mask, and muttering to himself as he did so. “How could I have been so foolish…it’s my Great Disks! They’re the key to making the Mask of Time. Vakama only managed to create a Mask that allowed control over time, but there’s so much more potential to be found…”Artakha raised up his creation: it was the upper half of the Vahi, the Mask Ekimu now wore. “This Mask will allow me to see into the past and future…and if my theory is correct, it can be combined with the Vahi Toa Vakama crafted. The combination of the two will allow for complete control over time, even travel through space and time itself!”Ekimu realized that this must have been how the Toa traveled between universes. The Upper Half of the Vahi was on Okoto, and the Lower in the universe of the Toa. The two fragments had created a bridge between universes that allowed the Toa to travel between them.In Ekimu’s next vision, he saw Tahu, still in his original form, put on the lower half of the Mask of Time. Before him were six monstrous creatures, each holding a square object with a distinctive symbol inscribed into them. Ekimu immediately recognized them as the symbols of the Toa, which had been previously revealed to him by the Mask of Time and had since gone down in Okotan legend as such. In fact, Ekimu when built new armor for the Toa he had inscribed these symbols into their chestpieces. Tahu used the Vahi to slow down the six creatures, but the Toa of Fire struggled to control its power. His hold over the power of Time were clearly very unstable.Back in Artakha’s workshop, the instability of the Vahi’s lower half was affecting its upper half. Artakha watched in horror as the upper half of the Vahi began to tremble, and energy began to radiate from it. Suddenly, a vortex of golden energy appeared, sucking the upper half of the Mask of Time away.Instead of an individual location, Ekimu then saw the entire solar system of the Toa, consisting of three planets. Energy enveloped the entire solar system, a blast of the Mask of Time’s golden light blinded Ekimu. When his vision cleared, he saw the result: two different timelines. The universe of the Toa remained unchanged, but he saw a second one he found very familiar. It was his own. Ekimu realized he had just witnessed the creation of his own universe. The connection between Ekimu’s universe and that of the Toa was clear to Ekimu now- he lived in a universe directly parallel to that of that of the Toa. The three planets in Ekimu’s universe were alternate versions of the three world’s of the universe of the Toa, with the world where Okoto was located an alternate version of the world of the Toa. Ekimu had once described the Mask of Time’s upper half as “older than the world and the stars.” Without any shadow of a doubt, he now knew that to be true.The upper half of the Mask of Time drifted through this recently created universe. Eventually, it punctured the atmosphere of Ekimu’s world and crash-landed in what would eventually be known as Okoto’s Region of Jungle. Immediately after Okoto came into existence, elemental energy erupted from the ground of each of Okoto’s elemental regions. Okoto’s elemental Creatures formed from these beams of energy to serve as guardians of the Island. Ikir was formed from the Region of Fire, Akida from the Region of Water, Terak from Earth, Ketar from Stone, Uxar from Jungle, and Melum from Ice. In the center of the Island, two other beings were formed. A magnificent hawk was formed from Okoto’s light. Ekimu recognized this hawk as Agil, the Creature of Light. The other being was sentient, unlike the other Creatures, but still bore similar animalistic features. This was Umarak, the Shadow Hunter. Scattered across the island, Ekimu saw the the very first Okotans. Ekimu reasoned that these were original Okotans were alternate versions of the original universe’s inhabitants.What Ekimu saw next was perhaps the most jarring to him. He saw himself, as well as his brother, Makuta, waking up for the first time. This had been Ekimu’s earliest memory, and now he was seeing it from a new perspective. Even back many millennia ago, Ekimu and Makuta had come into existence wearing their respective Masks of Creation and Control. Perhaps, Ekimu speculated, he was this universe’s alternative form to Artakha, with his brother the alternate form of the original universe’s “Makuta Teridax.”The following events were of no surprise to Ekimu: he had lived them. Ekimu and Makuta crafted the first elemental Masks for the first Protectors. He saw flashes of the settling of Okoto’s Regions, construction of the Island’s Temple’s, attacks by the Skull Raiders…everything up to and including Makuta’s betrayal. Finally, he saw the rise of the Skull Spiders and the gathering of the Protectors in the Temple of Time to summon the Toa.The vision changed drastically once more; Ekimu saw the universe of the Toa once more. The three worlds that made up their solar system collided and became one. Ekimu’s final vision took place on this reformed world. He saw the six Toa as well as Artakha, and another figure that seemed to be an older, weaker form of Vakama.“Brave Toa,” Vakama exclaimed. “I thank you for recovering my Kanohi Vahi from Voporak. However, Artakha has a bit of distressing news regarding the Mask of Time,”“Our pleasure, Turaga,” Onua responded.“Artakha, what is it?” Gali inquired.“A millennia ago, Vakama forged the Kanohi Vahi that he holds right now from the Great Disks. That mask allows the user to slow down or speed up time. However, it was only part of the Mask’s full potential. I created another Mask of Time that would allow for Clairvoyance. Theoretically, the two Masks of Time could be combined into a complete Vahi, that would allow travel between time and space,” Artakha replied. “That’s remarkable,” said Lewa. “Where is this upper half?”“That’s the issue,” responded Vakama. “Back when Vakama used the Vahi to slow down the Bohrok-Kal, time in our universe was briefly very unstable. This instability caused the Mask of Time’s upper half to be sucked out of our universe,”“It is my belief that when the Vahi’s upper half was lost, an entirely separate timeline was created, which runs parallel to ours. My telepathic abilities have given me glimpses into this alternate timeline and it is very similar to our own. The Matoran of this alternate universe live on an island called Okoto. They are currently besieged by their own version of none other than Makuta Teridax,” Artakha continued.“I did this?” Tahu asked in shock. “Because of me, an entire universe came into existence and the Makuta continues to exist?”“I’m afraid so,” Vakama responded somberly.“The elders of this Okoto are in desperate need of assistance against Makuta’s forces. In their culture, it is you six that they foresee will help them.They have activated their half of the Mask of Time, in hopes that you six will come and save them,” Artakha explained.“By the Great Beings,” Pohatu exclaimed. “What are we to do?”“I do not know what to tell you, Toa," Vakama replied. “You have brought peace and freedom to Spherus Magna, and I cannot ask anything further of you. If you desire to go to this 'Okoto' then I can activate our half and send you there. Even if I do, there’s no guarantee you’ll arrive unscathed. The choice is yours to make.” “I’ll go,” Tahu said firmly. “It’s my fault Okoto came into existence and that there’s another Makuta out there. I have a responsibility to put this right, a duty to this island. I don’t expect any of you to come with me.”“Don’t be a fool, brother,” Kopaka quickly interjected. “If there’s anything we’ve learned, it’s that our strength comes from our unity. Perhaps Okoto is your responsibility, but if saving it is your destiny, it’s mine as well.”“As is mine,” continued Onua.“Mine too,” said Pohatu.“Count me in,” said Lewa.“We’re all with you, brother,” concluded Gali.“Very well then,” said Vakama somewhat somberly. “I’ll use the Vahi’s power to complete the connection to send you there.”“The adaptive armor I built for you should conform to Okoto’s environment. Assuming you should make it there, you will gain new forms that will allow you to live among the Okotans,” Artakha explained. “But even then, Okoto is filled with monstrous creatures. It will be extremely dangerous. There’s no guarantee you’ll come back.”“Are you sure you want to go through with this?” Vakama asked.“Absolutely,” Tahu responded. “It’s about time for a new adventure.”“Then I wish you luck,” Vakama said. “May the Great Spirit watch over you.” Vakama removed his own Mask and placed the Vahi over his face. The Mask began to tingle, and as the connection to Okoto was created a vortex opened. Vakama and Artakha watched as the six Toa stepped into the vortex, leaving their world forever.––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––That was enough for Ekimu. He removed the Mask of Time from his face and replaced it with the Mask of Creation. The Mask had given Ekimu more answers than he had expected, but he did not want to see any more. Perhaps he could gotten clarity over what really happened to the spirits of the Toa following the final battle with Makuta, but not knowing that was for the best. The Toa had changed Okoto, and their spirits would forever be kept alive by its people.Ekimu stared at the setting sun from the Temple of Time. This was a strange sort of sunset, the end of a very long story. The Mask Maker had feared he had “stolen” the lives of the Toa, but now he knew that the Toa had freely chosen to come to Okoto. Guided by unity, their duty was to come to Okoto and meet their ultimate destiny. That destiny had not been written in stone, but was a responsibility that was found and chosen by them, not Ekimu. Perhaps that was what it meant to be a hero. Whether or not the Toa lived among them, their legacy would survive forever and inspire all Okotans to be heroes, even Ekimu. It was time for the heroes of tomorrow to go and and make new legends. For that is the way of the BIONICLE. Never…The End.
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- Legend Continues
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Searching for Ekimu's tomb, the Toa journey deep beneath the City of the Mask Makers. There they wind through ancient catacombs, battling Skull Scorpios at every turn. In time they push their way—or are they themselves pushed?—into a vast chamber. In its center swirls a vortex of debris, all that remains of the vanquished Lord of the Skull Spiders. In the darkness, Onua can make out a lone figure. Have the Toa found their quarry at last? "Ekimu!" he calls. "We are here to rescue you!" The six gasp as an islander steps out of the shadows… Flickr Here is my entry to The Legend Continues contest! Participants create entries reflecting things they would have liked to see in G2 Bionicle. I recreated the MNOG confrontation with Makuta in the style of the 2015 animations. Please let me know what you think!
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BIONICLE: REALM OF SHADOW I watched from above, observing each Toa down below as they attempted to fend of Umarak. Just hours ago, the island of Okoto had been cast into darkness. Now, the only chance of defeating my brother, Makuta was in the hands of five heroes now struggling to keep themselves off the ground. Gali, Toa of water, had courageously yet recklessly taken it upon herself to stop the portal to the Shadow Realm from opening. However, she was met with misfortune when Makuta’s influence ripped her very soul from her body and sucked her into the Shadow Realm. Umarak, now bathed in my element of light, was beginning to gain the upper hand. He had weakened the Toa to exhaustion and was now confident that he would win this battle. Little did he know, he himself was the last key to open the portal. An erie glow began to emit from Umarak’s body as the fragments of the forbidden mask circled above. The glow began to get stronger, and as it did Umarak let out horrific cries of agony. Slowly, pieces of himself began to break off and shoot upwards into the orb of light that was now forming. Still his shrieks carried on and soon, Umarak was no more. Instantly the orb began to expand and as it did the Toa down below were engulfed by it. It was at this moment that my faith had returned. The Toa must succeed in defeating my brother if Okoto is to be free of his reign. With that, the orb dissipated and the Toa were gone… * * * Tahu was aching all over. His fight with Umarak had left him weak, yet he knew he had to keep fighting. He could feel the ground on his chest; he was lying face down on what felt like stone or gravel. He pushed himself off the ground and let out a moan. Suddenly Tahu was struck by the realization that he was no longer on Okoto. As he looked around, he noticed that he was surrounded by many landmasses that were seemingly suspended in some kind of void. Close to him were his fellow Toa who were also picking themselves off the ground. “Ungh,” grumbled Tahu. “Where are we?” Kopaka looked around. “This must be the Shadow Realm. We were probably pulled in by the portal.” “If that’s the case then we need to find a way out,” exclaimed Tahu. “We mustn't be too hasty Tahu,” replied Onua who was kneeling beside Gali’s body. “We need to find Gali first.” “What about Makuta?” Pohatu asked. “I think we should find out if he escaped or not.” “I agree,” said Tahu. “We can look for Gali, but locating Makuta should be our top priority.” “Where do we begin?” Asked Lewa. “All of our weapons were destroyed by Umarak and we seem to be stranded on this landmass.” Tahu, Kopaka, and Onua were staring straight past Lewa as if they did not hear him. Instead their attention was focused on Pohatu who had picked up a stone and was levitating it in his palm. “What are you guys looking at?” Asked Lewa as he turned around in amazement. Pohatu just stood there looking at the stone hovering in his hand. “Uh, guys,” started Pohatu. “Try using your elements.” Immediately the other four Toa began to summon their elements. Tahu conjured two flames, one in each hand. Kopaka placed his hand on the ground and a large pillar of ice shot upwards. Onua threw his brutish hands in an upward motion, causing the ground in front of him to rise. Lewa extended his arm and a vine began sprout from the ground and climb up a nearby boulder. “Our elemental powers work here!” Exclaimed Lewa. “But how?” Asked Tahu. “They were rendered useless during our battle with Umarak. Why would they work now in a place where shadow is even stronger?” “Umarak said something to Ekimu about having the energy to open the portal because he was bathed in the element of light,” Started Onua. “Perhaps Ekimu’s power had the same effect on us and is why we can use our powers here.” “Well whatever the reason, at least we will have some means of defense when the time comes to fight Makuta,” said Kopaka. “That is if he is still here,” replied Pohatu. Onua walked over to where Gali’s body was lying, picked her up, and put her over his shoulders. The five Toa began to make their way to the edge of the landmass they were currently situated on. Throughout the landmass were many old ruins that looked as if they had been there for centuries, crumbling as time went on. Other parts had various boulders that looked as if they had been placed strategically by someone long ago. “Do you think there was once a civilization here?” Asked Lewa as he glanced around the ruins. “Probably,” responded Tahu. “But whoever lived here is long gone now.” As the Toa neared the the edge of the landmass, they began to notice a faint glow in the distance. When they arrived at the edge they could make out a vast array of obelisk shaped towers and what looked to be a massive stadium at the center. “Look!” Shouted Kopaka. “It’s the Capital City!” “That must be where Makuta is then,” said Tahu. “We will make our way there.” “And how do you suppose we get there?” asked Lewa. “I don’t see and bridges leading us there.” “Then we will make one,” replied Onua. Onua signaled for Pohatu to join him. The two toa stood at the edge of the landmass and nodded to each other. Onua began making pushing motions with his hands and Pohatu followed his lead. Large chunks of the ground began to shift forward, forming a platform while various stones were pulled into place to reinforce the structure. Within moments, a bridge to the next landmass had been created. The Toa continued their trek to the Capital City, making their way through many ruins and navigating through steep hills. Soon the Toa decided to rest momentarily before continuing. “It looks as if we are nearing the city,” exclaimed Tahu as he looked out over the cliff they were situated on. All of a sudden, there was a sound of shifting rock and the Toa looked around to identify what it was. “Did you do that?” Lewa asked Pohatu. “No,” Pohatu replied. “I have a feeling there is something here,” said Kopaka. Suddenly, several nearby boulders began to rise out of the ground, sprouting what appeared to be arms and legs. “Everyone stand back!” shouted Tahu. The boulders had now fully formed into upright creatures. Each one with rough skin, flat faces and massive claws. “They must have camouflaged themselves into the rock,” exclaimed Onua. “Are they friendly?” asked Lewa before being headbutted by one of the creatures. “Doesn’t look like it!” yelled Pohatu. The creatures were now lashing out at the Toa, who were in turn trying to fend them off with their elements. “We don’t seem to seem to catch a break from battle now do we?” exclaimed Tahu who was now pinned down by two of the creatures. Pohatu lifted a nearby rock and hurled into the creatures on top of Tahu. “Guess not,” he responded. Onua had directed an angled pillar of earth directly into three of the creatures sending them flying into the void below. “Everyone!” shouted Onua. “Try to knock them over the edge!” The other Toa followed Onua’s lead and began directing their energy towards the creatures in a way that would send them into the void. Kopaka took Onua’s idea and began creating similar pillars out of ice and directing them in an upwards motion. Lewa conjured several large vines that wrapped around the creatures and threw them over the cliff. Pohatu rapidly sent rocks flying into the creatures and Tahu created large blasts of fire that pushed them into the void. Soon every one of them had been defeated and the Toa were triumphant. “We should keep moving before more of these “things” appear,” said Tahu still catching his breath. “Agreed,” replied Kopaka. “The sooner we reach the Capital City the better.” The Toa continued their journey, repeating the same methods as earlier to travel from landmass to landmass. As they traveled they could make out more and more details of the city. Lewa began to make out a glow in the distance that was separate from that of the city. “Do you guys see that?” Asked Lewa, pointing in the direction of the glow. The other Toa turned and looked as well. “What do you think it is?” Asked Tahu. The glow was getting closer. Soon the Toa could make out a silhouette of a female figure. “Look.” exclaimed Kopaka, “It’s Gali!” The glowing figure had now reached the Toa, and it was in fact the spirit of Gali. “Gali!” shouted the Toa in unison. “Everyone,” started Gali. “Makuta is still at the Capital City, we need to hurry before it’s too late!” “Woah, slow down sister,” said Lewa. “Are you alright?” “I am fine,” replied Gali. “We brought your body with us for you to return to,” said Onua now holding Gali’s body in an upright position. “Thank you Onua,” said Gali. “This will make things much easier for me.” Gali’s spirit stepped into her body slowly. A blue glow began to emit from her body as she began to regain consciousness. “Now, Gali,” started Tahu. “What do you mean by ‘before it’s too late’?” “The portal Umarak summoned, it needs time to recharge after each use. As we speak, Makuta is waiting at the Capital City for the portal to recharge. We need to get there and prevent him from escaping!” “So you’re saying that we disabled the portal when we came through?” Asked Kopaka. “For a short time yes,” replied Gali. “What about the rock creatures we encountered?” Asked Pohatu. “Those are the native inhabitants of the Shadow Realm,” Gali responded. “They typically keep to themselves unless disturbed, however they are under Makuta’s influence so they tend to be more hostile.” “How far away is the city from here?” Asked Tahu. “Not too far. In fact it is just up that mountain. We can get there in time if we start moving now.” The Toa were were now sprinting across the desolate landscape, making their way to the mountain Gali was leading them to. When the six of them arrived at the foot of the mountain they realized it would take too long to scale by foot. Instead Onua kneeled down and placed both of his hands on the ground. The other five toa gathered around Onua and watched as he began to elevate the ground below them. They rose higher and higher into the air until finally they reached the top of the mountain. With that, they entered the Capital City and made their way to the center. “Makuta is waiting in the central stadium,” said Gali. “That is where we need to go.” “Do you think we will be able to fight him?” Asked Lewa. “As long as we can keep him away from the portal, we should be fine,” Gali responded. When they reached the stadium everyone stopped before entering. Gali turned around and faced her brothers. “I have seen what Makuta looks like,” Gali started. “He has transformed into something more than his former self. He has become extremely powerful and we need to be cautious.” “Thank you sister,” said Tahu as he took the lead. “Okay everyone, we are to hold off Makuta until the portal reopens. When it does we will return to Okoto and make sure Makuta is left behind.” Everyone acknowledged Tahu and continued on. Tahu pulled Onua to the side when the others were out of earshot. “Onua,” Tahu started. “When we get in there I need you to get to the highest point and wait there until I give the signal. Do not intervene even if the others are in trouble.” “I do not understand brother,” said Onua. “Why do you need me to stay away from the battle and what am I to do when you give the signal?” “You will know what to do when the time comes,” said Tahu. “Just trust me on this one.” The six heroes entered the stadium through the hallways of columns before them. Inside was a large field which the Toa assumed was used for sport when the stadium was still intact. In the very center was a large glowing orb that looked exactly like the one Umarak had summoned on Okoto. Standing directly in front of the orb was a massive winged being sporting an elegant staff and a replica of the forbidden mask. Onua exchanged a look with Tahu before he made his way up a set of stairs; the others proceeded to confront Makuta. When the five Toa approached Makuta he turned and looked at them. “Makuta!” Shouted Tahu. “This ends now!” “You are a fool for believing that, Toa!” Makuta shot back. “The portal will open, and when it does, I will become the new ruler of Okoto. “Not if we have anything to do about it!” Tahu responded. “I can not let you get in my way,” started Makuta. “If you insist on fighting, then so be it!” Makuta unfolded his wings and lifted off from the ground. From his staff he conjured a sphere of energy and flung it at the the group of Toa. Everyone managed to dodge the blast and in response spread out across the stadium’s field. “Keep him away from the portal!” Tahu shouted. Fighting insinuated from this with each Toa both dodging blasts from Makuta’s staff and directing their own array of attacks back at him. Lewa’s strategy was to use vines to hold Makuta’s feet down while Gali strengthened the vines by feeding water to them. This method seemed to hold Makuta down for short periods before he broke free with a blast from his staff. Kopaka’s method was to create walls of ice, while Tahu and Pohatu attempted something similar by making glass barricades from the sand on the stadium floor and intense heat. These methods also worked briefly before Makuta inevitably escaped using his staff. “We need to focus on getting that staff away from him,” said Kopaka. “Otherwise he will continue to break free.” All the Toa from then on focused on freeing the staff from Makuta’s grasp. Lewa began coiling the vines under his control around the staff while Gali continued to strengthen them. Kopaka, Tahu, and Pohatu all focused on sending blasts of ice, fire and sand towards the staff in an attempt to create enough force to knock it out of Makuta’s hand. After many attempts, the Toa finally managed to separate the two, encasing the staff in glass, ice, and vines. Makuta became very agitated. He pulled out a melee weapon from his belt and began charging at each individual Toa. Makuta had made a crucial flaw. He had chosen to charge at Gali first as Makuta felt she was the weakest. For one to think this, they would have to be very misguided as Gali was in fact one of the strongest out of the six Toa, second only to Onua, who was now perched at the top of the stadium. As Makuta barreled towards Gali she summoned a large wave and plunged it into Makuta, sending him crashing into the wall of the stadium’s field. The Toa instantly seized the moment and put forth all their effort into holding down the dark giant. Lewa bound Makuta’s wings and limbs with the thickest vines he could summon, Kopaka created a mound of ice as solid as the hardest stone on Okoto, and Tahu and Pohatu created a dense layer of glass to solidify the makeshift prison. The Orb at the center of the stadium had now reached its peak; its glow illuminating the entire building. The Toa were confident that Makuta was not escaping that prison any time soon, which meant that it was time for them to leave. As the Toa made their way to the portal Makuta let out a laugh. “You still have no idea do you?” Makuta asked with a malicious tone. “Even if you leave me here, fragments of the forbidden mask still remain in Okoto, securing my influence even from the Shadow Realm!” “You seem to hold a lot of faith towards that mask of yours.” exclaimed Tahu. “Let us see how well that faith holds up. Onua! Now!” Makuta shot his head upwards to see what was happening, but it was too late. Onua heard Makuta’s words and knew exactly what Tahu meant. If they were to make sure Okoto was safe they could not allow Makuta any more power. Onua pulled his brutish hands into tight fists and jumped from the rafters he was situated on. His body mass granted him extreme amounts of momentum as he plummeted towards Makuta. With all of of his strength, Onua came down on Makuta’s face with the mightiest punch he had ever given. The sheer force of the punch sent fractures across the forbidden mask replica causing it to shatter into pieces. Makuta let out a scream of agony and despair. He clutched his face s if trying to soothe the fresh wounds that were now there. Pieces of his mask were sprawled out in front of him. “Everyone into the portal!” shouted Tahu as Makuta was still emitting horrific shrieks of pain. The other Toa were still attempting to grasp what had just transpired before they acknowledged Tahu’s orders and started to make their way into the portal. “I think I broke more than the mask, Tahu,” said Onua as he passed by. “You have done well brother,” Tahu replied. Each Toa stepped into the portal one by one. Tahu watched as his comrades made their way in. When everyone was through Tahu looked back upon Makuta who was still slumped over in a fit of rage. Tahu did not know what to say to the once great mask maker. He knew he and the others had done their duty. At last Tahu stepped into the portal. Their journey had come to an end...
