Popular Post Nescent Posted August 18, 2015 Popular Post Share Posted August 18, 2015 (edited) Vazidan stood leaning against the rail, refusing to meet Teluli's eyes. The leaves surrounding him in every direction rustled beneath a gentle breeze, scattering a thousand shadows in a thousand different directions. "You are too young, Teluli," said Vazidan. "To enter the City of the Mask Makers, is…foolish." There was judgement in his voice, but the old Protector was wise, and simply wished that Teluli would understand how dangerous this proposition was. "I'm not being foolish," remarked Teluli, "I know more about the city than you do. I know what to expect. I'm prepared to leave, and I'm going whether you approve or not…just thought I'd extend the courtesy of saying goodbye. So, goodbye." And with that, Teluli bitterly climbed down the tree, and set off into the jungle. "To be so young and foolish," whispered Vazidan, as he watched Teluli dart through the jungle below, toward the Ancient City. It was late in the evening, and the jungle was mostly dark. Only the treetops shown any light, like dim golden flakes swaying in the wind. Vazidan studied the region, contemplating. Some thirty minutes north, the outskirts of the Ancient City loomed: A thick, dark, taboo section of the jungle, which Vazidan had only entered once. The thought of Teluli becoming tangled in its hostile vines, and being condemned in the city itself, filled him with remorse. Vazidan remained on the balcony until Teluli disappeared in the trees, until the breeze grew silent, and finally, until the golden light of the sun was replaced by white light from the moon. "Fare well, Teluli, the Chronicler," he said into the night. *** Teluli stood before the distinctly separate jungle in the dead of night, like so many times before. These were the outskirts of the Ancient City, the decaying jungle, the forbidden sector. Its marshes were beyond tolerable, and its plant life beyond wild. But Teluli was the most capable villager in the Region of Jungle; the hostility of the plants was nothing the rugged child couldn't handle. Teluli was here for one reason: To uncover the mysteries of the Rahi in and around the Ancient City. The outskirts of the Ancient City were taboo. The city itself was forbidden. None had entered the city since the ancient days, and its mysteries pulled at Teluli's burning need to explore, to learn, to document. Teluli had visited the outermost regions of the decaying jungle several times before, but tonight was the night to defy the code, break through, and venture all through the outskirts and into the city itself. Scared, excited, and yearning to face fate, the petite Jungle child stepped into the darkest forest, never to return. Vazidan stood leaning against the rail, with his apprentice perched beside him. The timeless trees of the jungle swayed as they always had, casting lively shadows across the balcony. "I grow old, Vizuna. The jungle-leaves call to me." Vizuna stood still, admiring the trees, the sky, and his elderly father's wisdom. He said nothing. Vazidan stared at the dark outskirts of the Ancient City. The breeze was strong this evening, and at times he could feel it lifting him - or rather, lifting a part of him. It was time to pass his mask, and the title of Protector, to his son. "Before I depart," he said, meeting Vizuna's eyes, "I must leave you with a gift. Come along." With a shaky hand, the old Protector directed Vizuna into his tree-hut. From a pile of books, he withdrew a rugged leather journal, and handed it to his son. "Several years before you came to be, the young chronicler Teluli ventured into the City of the Mask Makers. He was never seen again." Vizuna wiped the weathered journal's cover, and read: "The Chronicles of Teluli…" "Every evening, for months, I kept watch over the outskirts, waiting, hoping," continued the dying Protector. "Eventually my hope dwindled, and in an act of desperation, I entered the decaying jungle. There I found a journal - this journal - tangled in vines and moss. It is the last fragment of Teluli's memory, and it must be preserved." Vizuna nodded. "And now," said Vazidan, resting a hand on his son's shoulder, "I give you my mask. Wear it well, son." My name is Teluli, the Chronicler. Last night I entered the forbidden outskirts of the City of the Mask Makers. I have left my home, the Region of Jungle, to pursue an expedition in the Ancient City. My goal is to explore the city, and record all that I can learn about the wildlife within. Presently, I am perched upon a rock within the outskirts, squinting to write in the dim light. This place is like a twisted, dark labyrinth; less than a day has passed and already I am lost. The plant life here is overwhelmingly hostile, and totally unsuitable for all the regular Rahi - Kuckoo Birds, Pariks, Chameleons - all I have seen thus far are foul insects and timid rodents, but nothing substantial enough to document. I am getting close, though; I can feel it. I can feel new discovery around every twisted corner. I do wonder how this toxic area came to be. Vazidan, the Protector of Jungle, said it was caused by the Great Cataclysm, the same thing which caused our ancestors to flee the city so long ago. However, after nearly a year of study, it is clear to me that the tainted outskirts are expanding. This region is growing larger, and there must be a reason. It's as though something toxic is leaking from the city itself, tarnishing the wilderness, spreading like a disease. To find the true cause of these mutated outskirts, or to confirm that it was caused by the Great Cataclysm, is the secondary goal of my expedition. One thing at a time. The first step of my expedition has been taken: Embark into the outskirts. The next step is simple - traverse the decaying jungle. The outskirts of the Ancient City, otherwise known as the "decaying jungle." This is a forbidden section of the jungle which is plagued by hostile, mutated Rahi, and dangerous marshes. It has remained unexplored for centuries, like the city, since the Great Cataclysm. Who on Okoto named these creatures Sap Suckers? For every one that I swat, ten more buzz by my mask. I hereby rename this aggressive, swarming Rahi the "Teluli Sucker." Sap Suckers are common enough in the northern cluster of the Region of Jungle, but these are different, no doubt mutated like the jungle itself. A night has passed since my previous entry, and I cannot say I'm enthralled by this first discovery. Sap Suckers are tiny insect-like Rahi with four fine wings and a long, straw-like snout. Unlike the Sap Suckers familiar to the Region of Jungle, these are fit with prickly orange claws, and a bizarre bony tail. From what I have observed, the mutated Sap Suckers latch on to a tree with their fore claws, dig at the bark with their claw-like appendage, then siphon sap with their impressive snout. Another, er, interesting trait of the mutated Sap Sucker is its taste for flesh. I spent all morning swiping at the buggers - first just one, then a dozen, then a hundred more. In a panic, I lunged into a marsh, and slinked away through the water. These feisty Rahi swarm in dreadfully great numbers, and can be found amongst sap-rich trees, or harassing any susceptible villager like myself. FootnotesBuild with Skull Warrior and Skull Slicer!Building Instructions Scavengers are slow-moving Rahi, and although they are indifferent towards me, I find them disgusting. They are larger than my fist, and are often found sleuthing about the undergrowth, digging small Rahi out of the dirt, or sleeping beneath the leaves. A talented explorer approaches the jungle from different angles. Today I sifted through the convoluted roots of a great, winding tree, and crawling within the growth there were Scavengers - nasty, segmented creepers with disturbingly long feelers, angular legs, and tentacle-like appendages around the mouth. They move with the clickity-clack sound of a rough exoskeleton, always tickling the ground with their snake-like feelers. The roots that I dug through must have been some sort of nest, for there were at least a dozen, all writhing about. Lately I've been keeping an eye on the ground, and Scavengers are in fact fairly common in the toxic outskirts. They are very clearly drawn to moisture, and can be found in dark, wet, obscure places on the jungle floor. FootnotesBuild with Skull Warrior!Building Instructions Unlike the common Scavenger, King Scavengers are rare, solitary, and found above the ground. They are slower than the ordinary Scavenger, but far more capable, and will fight aggressively with three rigid teeth. I was walking along, keeping close to the ground in search of small Rahi, when I nearly stepped on this thing. At first sight I thought it was an ugly colorful fruit, but then it moved - it moved in a very familiar manner. It didn't take long for me to realize that I was looking at a King Scavenger, a species similar to the Scavenger which has been gifted with an armor-like exoskeleton, sharp teeth, six legs, and perhaps the most useful gene of all: flamboyant yet strangely effective camouflage. Thanks to its similar appearance to common fruit, the King Scavenger is able to reside in the open air, rather than hiding beneath the surface like its feeble relative. I watched the King for a while, at a safe distance so as not to intimidate it, and observed as it engaged in combat with another Rahi - some sort of small spider. The King Scavenger is shockingly feisty in combat, thrashing suddenly and sporadically with its hooked teeth and overbearing its opponent under sheer mass. Without a proper set of tools, there's no way to be certain that the King Scavenger is legitimately a relative of the common Scavenger. FootnotesBuild with Skull Basher, Gali: Master of Water, and Protector of Earth!Building Instructions Personal LogMy sense of direction in these outskirts is becoming less disoriented. The mountain range ahead is visible over the tree-line, and beyond it lay the Ancient City itself. As I near the base of the mountains, the jungle grows darker, wilder, and more disorderly. Trees, split down the middle, smashed into the ground, or pulverized to a million pieces, dart the land. I fear that something horribly destructive lies ahead, but I must press onward. These skeletal spiders are smaller than the Skull Spiders, and are indifferent toward me. Scavengers seem to be their most common prey, though I did spot three of the spiders feasting on a rotting King Scavenger. Unfortunately, the first Skeletal Arachnid I found had been recently killed by a King Scavenger, but soon after, I realized how very common this Rahi is, and was able to uncover a whole nest. Like all the Rahi I've discovered so far in this abominable jungle, the Skeletal Arachnid appears to have exposed bones all over its fleshless body. Other features include a pair of fine pincers protruding from its temples, and a bulging abdomen which is used to draw thin but strong webs. Ordinarily, spiders ravel their prey in cocoons before consuming, but the Skeletal Arachnid does not exhibit this behavior. Instead, whole clusters of spiders deliver organized attacks, negating the need to disable their victims tactically. The dry, withered remnants of Scavenger remains scattered in their lair leads me to believe that the defenseless Scavengers are a common feast for Skeletal Arachnids. In this part of the decaying jungle, small dead Rahi crawling with Skeletal Arachnids is a common sight. FootnotesBuild with Skull Slicer and Skull Warrior!Building Instructions Skull Shredders are the destructive menace of the jungle. They are only seen when they attack, though they leave a large imprint on the land with their many scaly claws, so as to prove how dangerous they are. Well, I found the source of the mess in this part of the jungle. My home, the Region of Jungle, is a relatively safe environment. There are no massive or overly-powerful Rahi which wreak havoc on the woods - our worst adversaries are the Skull Spiders, which are manageable. It's no surprise, however, that the decaying jungle has such a menace as the Skull Shredder - especially this deep in. I encountered the thing prowling in shadowy thickets last night; at first, all I saw were its red eyes and fangs, glowing like scorched metal in the bushes' darkest depths. The rest of its body blends well with the jungle, giving it a massive advantage as a predator. Even its claws - I counted ten on each forearm - are shades of green, and are as fine as slumped jungle leaves. The Skull Shredder I encountered was hunting a grazing Rahi, one which I unfortunately did not get the opportunity to study, for the Shredder tore into it like one of the demolished trees. Its attack revealed another trait: The tail protruding from its back sports two long, opposable blades, which the Shredder uses to pinch and tear its victims. Truly, from every angle, the Skull Shredder is a horrifying killing machine, and I advise all to respect its territory, marked by mutilated trees. FootnotesBuild with Skull Slicer and Skull Scorpio!Building Instructions Personal LogThe acidic marshes are one last hurdle before I reach the mountain strip. Sticklike trees and toxic, opaque waters mesh together into a heterogeneous mix of obscurity and hostility. It will be difficult to explore the marshes, and I don't intend to stick around any longer than I have to. The aptly-named Stilted Swamp Crawler has a set of blade-like claws protruding from each limb, which are used to keep itself elevated above the swampy waters in the deeper regions surrounding the Ancient City. It is a mighty, dangerous Rahi, which keeps to its lair when it isn't hunting. I had to do a double-take when I saw this Rahi drifting above the waters. I was lucky enough to spot it before it saw me, and quickly took to the shadow for further observation. The Stilted Swamp Crawler is huge, the largest Rahi I've seen yet in the decaying jungle. It strides eerily through the air, scanning the marshes with its single green eye. Its legs and thorn-like appendages blend in with the tall trees, while its bright back stand out, giving the illusion that it is hovering above the water. The first Stilted Swamp Crawler I found disappeared into the jungle before I could finish my observations, but later in the day I discovered and studied another. The second one had a habit of keeping flat on the water, sometimes submerging itself completely with only its head and tail sticking out of the surface, like a mossy boulder and a purple stem drifting through the green marsh. While its natural prey remains a mystery to me, I have deemed this an extremely dangerous Rahi, and hope that it does not exist outside these marshes. At the very least, the Stilted Swamp Crawler is terrifying, and is equipped with all the best advantaged for hunting: Camouflage, high ground, large size, and a multitude of massive, sharp weapons. FootnotesBuild with Skull Basher and Skull Scorpio!Building Instructions The Boney Wasp is the largest and most dangerous Rahi I have ever seen in the jungle. Its gargantuan wings buzz as loud as an earthquake, and on its muscly, curled tail there is a small, deadly stinger. Today I was found by the great Boney Wasp. After two full days of travel through the marshes, I have emerged near the foot of the mountains. Before I could move past the decaying jungle, however, this monstrosity confronted me. I heard it coming off in the distance, first as a subtle hum, then as an almighty rumble when it drew near. For sheer size alone, I do not doubt that this Rahi dominates the entire jungle. Despite its size, the Boney Wasp flies with the same darting speed as the tiny Sap Sucker. Even on the ground, its four legs carry it faster than I can run. Had it found me earlier in the marshes, or closer to the rim of the jungle, I wouldn't have stood a chance. Thanks to my small size, I was able to sprint through the trees and stumble onto the rocky base of the mountain before it could manage to clutch on to me. I heard it lose interest and fly away, but regardless, I did not stop running until every sign of the jungle had disappeared. The Boney Wasp is the king of the decaying jungle. No individual villager or known Rahi has any chance of besting it in a fight. We can only hope that there are no more of them out there. FootnotesBuild with Skull Slicer, Lewa: Master of Jungle, and Protector of Jungle!Building Instructions Personal LogThis journey is taking longer than I had predicted. I am writing this at the border of the jungle, roughly a quarter of the way up the mountain. The geography surrounding the City of the Mask Makers is hazy, but hopefully I can gather my bearings at the top of this mountain. I've discovered and documented seven Rahi in the decaying jungle, more than I had even hoped for. I'm not surprised that most of them have been aggressive, hostile, and dangerous, but I'm holding out hope that there are still friendly and peaceful Rahi to be found in the Ancient City. So far, every single Rahi I encountered showed identical signs of some sort of disease - exposed bones and decayed flesh. Perhaps even their hostile behavior is a result of illness. I feel very confident that there is a plague at work here. Even if I can't cure it - even if I can't discover the source of it - I am elated that I am able to create this historical document, and hope to share my findings with the rest of Okoto. Now I embark on the next phase of my expedition - the mountain stretch. Beyond the decaying jungle, a range of mountains keeps the Ancient City separate from the rest of Okoto. A playful mountainous-variant of the Magma Fox, Blossom Foxes are common in fields of flowers along the mountain stretch. My first day in the mountains went well. Upon wandering into a rippled field of flowers, I was greeted by a small, excited Rahi, one much like the Oko Kani back at home. At first, it seemed timid, and I was skeptical that it would be friendly. But, unintimidated by its petite size, I approached it cautiously, and indicated that I was friendly. Stricken with joy, the Blossom Fox - as I have called it, due to its striking resemblance to the Magma Fox - began dancing in the flowers, eagerly inviting me to explore the colorful meadow. Blossom Foxes love a good petting, and bode well for my trip through the mountains. FootnotesBuild with Ekimu and Protector of Jungle!Building Instructions The bearded Califa, named after its stringy purple chin hair, is a hulking beast with massive horns, powerful hooves, and a jutting jaw. The mighty Rahi keep to themselves, grazing along the mountainsides, and are wildly defensive, but not very provocative. Past the flowery meadow and a short distance further up the mountain, I discovered a large pack of grazing beasts. The Bearded Califa are similar to the Okoto Mukau, a common herd Rahi in the Region of Stone, but are much more powerful and wild. I carefully approached an outlier of the pack, but was quick to retreat when it charged toward me. They are quick to strike, but only if you intrude upon their space. I spent the rest of the day watching from a distance, studying their behavior. Fights broke out willy-nilly between some of the larger Califa, but tended to last only a few seconds before the weaker ones fell back. As you can guess, the Bearded Califa fight by swinging their massive blue horns, and by kicking with all four legs. It's truly a sight to behold, watching such mighty beasts deliver such powerful blows. Another thing I caught on to was the importance of the Califa's beard. A longer beard seems to represent greater authority within the herd, and the Califa with the longest beards are almost never engaged in fights. Interestingly, when the Califa with the longest beard was attacked by a rowdy member of the herd, many of the other Califa nearby stepped in to defend it. It's appears that the oldest Califa are the most respected of all. FootnotesBuild with Skull Basher and Skull Warrior!Building Instructions Somewhat similar in appearance to the Scavenger, but twenty times their size. Boney Crawlers are large, primitive Rahi with a sharp pronged tail, and a deadly bite. I did not stick around for long to study this particular Rahi. Unlike the Bearded Califa, which intrigued me the entire time I observed them, these Boney Crawlers are quite to-the-point in their behavior. The things attack anything that moves, and spend their time crawling over boulders and sniffing at the dirt until they grow tired. I found a group of twelve loitering in the same general area, but the Rahi are fairly commonly found roaming alone in the rockier parts of the mountainside. FootnotesBuild with Skull Grinder and Skull Slicer!Building Instructions The Yabbawak are horrible, mean, relentless giant birds. They smother one another in overpopulated packs, like a chaotic mess of squawking feathers. And their voice, oh, their voice - like a raspy, wailing siren, as you are clobbered by prickly feathers and claws from every direction. Everything these Rahi do is totally agitating. The moment I approached one, it locked on to me, and seemed absolutely intent on tackling me to the ground and beating me while I was down. The Yabbawak clutched my ankle with its claws and flapped its wings in my face while grappling my mask with its teeth - all while squawking its whiny, piercing shriek right at my head. After I managed to rip it away, it kept kicking and tossing maniacally, while the rest of the flock charged forward. I tossed the horrible creature aside, and flung myself in the opposite direction. I don't know how many there were, or exactly how far I ran, but I exhausted myself trying to lose them. Yabbawak are merely untrusting bullies. Steer clear of these Rahi, or they will ruin your day. FootnotesBuild with Skull Slicer!Building Instructions Kidjit are tall, proud, and lively Rahi. They seem to have a compulsion to jump, and tend to idly hop up and down the mountainside playfully. If I wrote this entry without describing the Kidjit's size, one would assume it to be a small, furry rascal. These Rahi share traits with friendly bird species and immature Oko Kani. Hopping, rolling in the grass, racing each other up the mountainside, all day long these Kidjit play and play, never seeming to falter until the night falls. They are a totally friendly and approachable species, and don't seem to have any natural predator. The Vultures, which I intend to observe and log tomorrow, do swoop down the mountain and harass the Kidjit occasionally, but it is nothing more than a rivalry between the species. Perhaps the Vultures dislike that the Kidjit play so close to their nests. Physical characteristics of the Kidjit include four hefty round legs, a single thin eye, and a long, curved neck. Their chests puff out significantly, and perked up on their back is a fluffy, pointed tail. The Rahi also have two small horns atop their head. Thanks to the Vultures, I had plenty of opportunities to see the Kidjit in combat. Their primary method of attack involves lunging through the air to deliver a thundering kick, sometimes knocking their opponent to the ground. Secondly, they swing their flexible necks to swipe their horned skulls through the air like a flail. They're not the most impressive horns, but when their opponent lies winded on the ground after a four-legged kick to the side, two measly horns deliver plenty of damage. Amongst themselves, Kidjit are totally peaceful and unsuspecting, more keen on horseplay than wrestling. FootnotesBuild with Skull Basher and Pohatu: Master of Stone!Building Instructions Vultures are rare, aggressive creatures which linger in the sky above, swooping down to attack their prey when it is most vulnerable. On the ground, the Vulture's slender wings become overly-articulated long arms, perfect for swiping its claws at an opponent. I think Okoto would be a better place without these Rahi. Vultures are large birds capable of flight, which live in huge nests on the cliffside. Their days are spent snoozing in the safety of their secluded nests, hungrily spying on small Rahi, or harassing nearby creatures, especially the Kidjit. They are rather ugly Rahi, with a flabby snout, oversized jagged claws, and broad boney wings. Their skin glows blue-green with an electric charge. I couldn't study these Rahi at too close a distance, for they do not take kindly to trespassing, and are very easy to provoke. However, I can say that there are relatively few Vultures (thankfully), and many of them show signs of old age. I predict that they live longer than villagers of Okoto, and reproduce only once, keeping their population sizes steady. Despite their foul attitude, Vultures are an interesting Rahi due to their elemental charge, and close, tight-knit, secluded community. FootnotesBuild with Skull Scorpio and Protector of Water!Building Instructions Personal LogI have finished my climb, and reached the very top of the mountains. I am beginning to see the Ancient City off in the distance, and know exactly which direction to travel. The Rahi on this side of the mountain stretch show even greater signs disease, and I feel even more confident that there is a plague at work here. It has to be coming from within the city. Nearly a week ago, I stormed off into the jungle to begin my voyage. Vazidan, if you're reading this…I'm sorry for being so hot-headed. My expedition has been every bit as dangerous as you had warned. Still, it has all been worth it…and I hope you come to see that. There is a valley at the foot of this mountain which I will have to traverse. I'm getting close; I think I'm more than half-way to the Ancient City. Now, I begin my descent. Habbarak are massive and powerful Rahi which dwell in the highest points of the mountains. The hostile Rahi have no natural predators, and remain stationary in their clearings. The highest parts of the mountain fold over like a spike, barely flat enough to walk across. These areas are dominated by Habbarak, idle creatures with oddly pointed heads and outrageously large, jagged front legs. I made the mistake of stumbling into their territory, without realizing it, and was sent tumbling down the slope after being chased away by the unwelcoming creatures. However, as territorial as they are, they do not step away from their perch, and I was able to sit back and observe a while without provoking them. Habbarak are unsettling. They sit as still as stone, ignoring one another and keeping absolutely silent all the time. They are so still and silent that I mistook them for part of the mountain. I wonder how they came to be, and what goes on in their head…But this is a scientific expedition, not a historical or a philosophical one, so those are questions for another time. FootnotesBuild with Skull Warrior and Lewa: Master of Jungle!Building Instructions What goes on in a Skull Sprinter's mind? Even the Skull Sprinter does not know, for it runs faster than it thinks. I had the opportunity to witness one of the Rahi in person, though it was mostly just a purple blur. Back home in the Region of Jungle, Kuckoo stampedes are common, and the birds are renowned for their speed. They are put to shame, however, by the Skull Sprinter. This is the fastest running bird I've ever seen, in fact it is the fastest Rahi on Okoto. It could outrun an entire Kuckoo stampede, a Sap Sucker swarm, even a raging Boney Wasp. When I first came across the Rahi, all I could discern was a whooshing sound, and a reddish-purple haze in the corner of my eye. It was…disorienting, to say the least, and I got dizzy trying to catch sight of it. After spinning in surprise and falling to the ground, the Rahi skidded to a halt beside my head, and looked curiously into my face. Even standing still, all of its motions were snappy and precise, making its capability of enormous speed obvious. After studying me for a moment, the bird disappeared before my very eyes, and was probably halfway across the mountains by the time I got to my feet. That was the only time I'd seen one up close, but there are other Skull Sprinters out there, visible only in the corner of one's eye, and gone by the time their presence is known. FootnotesBuild with Skull Basher!Building Instructions The Skeletal Hounds are fast runners, which unfortunately benefits their vicious nature. The horrible Rahi charge in packs, whimpering, snarling, outnumbering their prey…They are not fair Rahi in any way. The mountains have started flattening out as I reach the valley below, and soon after finding myself on these hillier slopes around the base, I was greeted by the howling weeps of Skeletal Hounds. Their shrilling howl was distant, but carried heavily through the air, informing all its listeners that a hunt was coming. Initially I was confused, like I have been so many times during this expedition, but when I saw the purple-black pack charge menacingly from within the woods, I knew I was in trouble. Seven of them, all exuding hunger, propelled themselves across the land on brutish, machine-like limbs, fueled by an irrefutable thirst to kill. A second longer and I would have been Rahi-lunch, but fortunately for myself I caught up to a herd of grazing Bearded Califa. After resentfully watching a small slaughter, I have concluded that Skeletal Hounds are foul, selfish cheaters. They hide in the woods, hunt in packs, and target peaceful grazers. The Califa did put up a fight, knocking hounds astray with their horns and kicking them to the ground, but ultimately the Hounds were more powerful, and were able to take down two of the Rahi before dragging them into the woods to feast. Skeletal Hounds fight by throwing themselves in great numbers at their victims, wrestling them to the ground, and attacking with teeth, horns, and claws. Due to their reclusive and dangerous nature, I cannot comment on how common they are; I can only warn you to stay out of the woods, and heed their pre-hunt howl. FootnotesBuild with Skull Basher and Protector of Earth!Building Instructions Large, wooly, and icy-brown, the Marmoth resembles a Bearded Calif, but with trunks in lieu of horns. Tell of the Marmoth has been passed through generations, though details of this extinct beast have been dismally gray. Just last night, however, I was graced with a surprising treasure: The frozen remains of a single, great Marmoth. Behold, the great wooly Marmoth, in all its might. Along the base of the mountain I descended, there was a cave tunneling into the stone wall - one of many in the area - and deep inside, ancient slabs of ice lined the walls, eternally hissing gentle wisps of chilled air, perhaps frozen in time like the legends of the Ancient City itself. Like an icy glass display, there stood a Marmoth paralyzed within the wall. Entranced, I peered into its dead eyes, hardly believing what I was seeing… The Marmoth had tusks and hooves similar to those of the Bearded Califa. Their similar body and face structure lead me to believe that they are somehow distantly related. Unlike the Califa, however, the Marmoth sports a thick trunk, and wild wool sprouting from the legs, torso, and face. There were signs of decay on this particular Marmoth, however that is likely a result of natural degradation rather than the disease that I am studying. Its massive coat of fur suggests that the Marmoth inhabited extremely cold regions. Perhaps the Ancient City was frozen over in history since forgotten? FootnotesBuild with Skull Warrior, Pohatu: Master of Stone, and Protector of Stone!Building Instructions Personal LogI have passed the mountain-barrier after five long days of travel. Or was it six? Perhaps even eight…I have lost track of time. There is so much to see, so much to explore, so much to record! I may be the fittest Jungle villager, and the most experienced at exploring the wilderness, but still, I would not have made it this far without an incredible amount of luck. For that, I am thankful. Before me lies the valley, in all its glory, and beyond, faded in the thick haze, is the towering forge of the Ancient City. Like a pillar of hope, it guides me on my quest. From my place here on a high-reaching boulder, I see many beasts wandering through the windy grass ahead. This will be an interesting adventure. At the foot of the mountains lies the valley, an assortment of wavy hills and grassy fields. The Ancient City is directly ahead. In the days before our exile from the Ancient City, Bison were common herd Rahi. Much like the city itself, all the Bison have decayed, with withered skin and exposed bones. Despite their repulsive, undead appearance, the Bison are the same passive grazers they've always been. My family owned a small herd of Mukau, back home in the Region of Jungle. It wasn't much - we only had four - but they are rather sparse in the jungle, so ours amounted to a lot. They are simple Rahi, and don't accomplish much on their own, but I've always appreciated them for that - they are simple and happy, just barely relevant to their ecosystem. Well, the first creature I've discovered here in the valley is the Undead Bison - a generally peaceful, simple grazer, extremely similar to the Mukau I know so well. They are definitely fiercer, with gigantic horns and powerful legs, but at heart they are equally passive. I did observe an instance where an upset Bison provoked a fellow herd member, and I had the opportunity to witness the small debacle unfold. Even in battle, Bison are similar to their Mukau cousins. They attack by thrusting their horns, and charging to impale their opponent. Unlike the Mukau, however, these Rahi possess a ton of strength, and are legitimately capable of damaging one another. Fights between themselves generally only last a few seconds before both Bison concede. FootnotesBuild with Skull Basher and Skull Grinder!Building Instructions What a bizarre Rahi, this Longnek. Its incredibly tall neck enables it to reach the highest points of the trees, to feed where most others can not. I did not dare to approach them, for they travel in tight-knit packs and sport powerful front legs, however they acted peaceful, at least at a distance. Longnek are another friendly - or at least, indifferent - Rahi which I have discovered. Their body structure resembles that of a Kidjit, with a traditional quadrupedal torso and an incredibly long, bendable neck. They don't seem to be the most capable fighters, with low running speeds and measly armaments. In a fight, they will spit and bite at their opponent, or try to pin them to the ground before fleeing. Because they band together, the Longnek usually outnumber their predators. Their long neck has an obvious advantage: The ability to reach high places. Longnek feed on a reddish fruit which only grows in the highest parts of the trees. This is not a behavior I noticed in the Kidjits, which feed on the ground. The Longnek Rahi is very common wherever their fruit trees grow. There is an entire small forest of the trees in this part of the valley, but they are sparse elsewhere. I can't imagine that this Rahi exists anywhere besides the valley. FootnotesBuild with Skull Slicer and Gali: Master of Water!Building Instructions Electric Gazelles are majestic runners, with an electric charge flowing smoothly over their body. They are a closed-off and dangerous Rahi, but entirely peaceful. In motion, Electric Gazelles might be mistaken for some sort of flashy phantom. Their body resembles a sparkling gush of colorful light, refracting whatever light passes through it. I watched as a stampede of twelve pranced across the horizon, leaping over streams and piercing through the air like they were part of the sky itself. I am glad that I kept my distance, however, because the Gazelles are literally imbued with energy. Whatever living thing comes near them is zapped with electricity, fried under incalculable voltage. They are extremely dangerous, but in their element they are beautiful. Watch, and admire, but keep a very generous distance. FootnotesBuild with Skull Warrior and Protector of Jungle!Building Instructions These are disturbing green creatures which walk on two legs, carry makeshift weaponry, and have shabby wings and a tail. They can be found in caves around the rocky base of the mountain stretch, and are incredibly hostile - but they do not venture far from their home. I can't say that I expected to discover a creature such as this. I knew that caves dotted the mountain range, in fact I entered one myself. Still, I was taken back when these gangling, green-glowing Rahi crept out from the caves and trotted through the valley in my direction. They carried clubs, mallets, bows and arrows - every variety of primitive, makeshift weaponry I could imagine. Initially I mistook them for villagers, perhaps left behind when the city fell, victims to the Skull Spiders all these centuries. Then I saw their wings and tails. Even their feet were different, with oversized claws and ankles. Being the crafty survivor I am, I snuck passed them through the hills, and seized the opportunity to explore their homes in the caves. Shoddy stone tools and drawings on the walls suggest the Cave-Dwellers are an intelligent species, however they are destructive, mean, and all around unwelcoming. FootnotesBuild with Skull Slicer and Protector of Earth!Building Instructions The land is pressed flat under the weight of these thumping, crystalline beasts. Crystal Rex are horned, feathery, and capable of achieving high speeds when chasing prey. Common, hostile, and hunched, Crystal Rex are natural enemies of the Undead Bison. They fight by clawing with their stubby arms, whipping their boney tail, and ramming with their single humungous horn. They are perhaps the noisiest and rowdiest Rahi I've found thus far in the valley. When idle, the Crystal Rex periodically unleash a ground-shaking roar, which can be heard echoing through the hills for several hundred feet. Even their footsteps are booming, and carry through the valley as resiliently as their voice. The beasts are hungry carnivores, and are aggressive towards whatever is stupid enough to come near. Consequently, studying them was rather difficult. The only times I felt safe going near was during combat, when they were distracted by their opponent, so their idle nature remains a mystery. FootnotesBuild with Skull Basher and Skull Warrior!Building Instructions Personal LogI am almost at the front gate. There, beyond the hills, I can see the entire perimeter of the City of the Mask Makers, and the impressive structures within. There is orange light spilling from the forge. I wonder what that is; legend tells that the forge was extinguished. Before I enter the Ancient City, I will make a detour: In a cavity below the walls there is a fiery quarry, kept ablaze by some flaming creatures within. I'm heading there now to investigate. There is very little to be known about this creature I have dubbed "Fallen Hero." It appears to be some sort of half-villager steed, with the face and torso of a Protector, and the body of a Rahi. I cannot guess how many exist, or how intelligent they may be; my encounter may well have been the first and the last ever to occur. As I crossed the last stretch of the valley toward the Ancient City, a galloping being approached me from over the hills. It did not speak, it just stood a few feet before me, staring me down, studying me. I was too anxious to react. The Fallen Hero was taller than me, but small compared to most of the Rahi in the valley. Still, it was very obviously strong, intelligent, and armed with a spear-like blade. It wore a mask, one similar to my own, and had the healthy upper-body of a villager. Its lower body was the normal back and legs of a four-legged Rahi. Individually, the two parts are nothing extraordinary, but paired at the waist, they become…unsettling. After a moment of intense silence, the Fallen Hero puffed its chest, then took off toward the unexplored mountain range opposite the City of the Mask Makers. I wish I could have followed it, studied its behavior, perhaps even spoken with it, but I am here now, standing before the fiery quarry. FootnotesBuild with Ekimu, Mask Stand, and Skull Warrior!Building Instructions Blazing Coyotes get along with no one, not even each other. They are scrawny, low-profile Rahi, but exude flame all over their body, making them appear much larger than they actually are. Their primary method of attack involves slashing with their massive claws, and fights amongst themselves are all too frequent. One of the Rahi which calls this quarry home is the Blazing Coyote, a difficult, hardy beast which bathes its surroundings in heat and flame. Villagers from the Region of Fire are known to be hot-headed, and I expect this creature would be right at home there. Angry, rowdy, combative, and above all, hot, the Blazing Coyotes are impossible to get along with, and I wouldn't risk my life to enter that pit of fire where they dwell. I spent some time studying their lifestyle before wandering further along the quarry, and I can say, they don't do much. They don't seem at home here. They may not be the nicest Rahi, but I wish I could ship them off to the Region of Fire to live a happier life. Methods of attack involve slashing with their claws, and methods of play involve brutal wrestling and chasing. I imagine that they would burn to the touch as well, a useful tool when hunting prey. FootnotesBuild with Skull Grinder, Mask Stand, and Tahu: Master of Fire!Building Instructions Fire Stalkers are tall, hostile creatures with large claws, sharp wings, and a downright terrible attitude. They appear to be bird-like, but may lack the ability to fly. The only other creature relevant to the fiery quarry is the Fire Stalker, a much taller and more frightening Rahi than their neighbors, the Blazing Coyote. Their wings are kept folded to their back, and are measly compared to their mighty legs and sharp feet. A delicate, ornate claw extending from their ankles is used to precisely disable their prey. I know this because I saw the maneuver in action during a quarrel between two Coyotes and a Stalker. The Fire Stalker was larger, stronger, and smarter than its attackers, and won the fight easily. The Stalker walked away with ruffled feathers, while the fool hearty Coyotes left limping. I must say, these Rahi make me uncomfortable. I know they could destroy me if they pleased. They could march up the rocks, tackle me to the ground, and end my expedition here and now. Instead they choose to sit and stare, doing little more than idly pacing while I'm watching. I suspect they are one of the more intelligent Rahi, and that they wish to keep their lifestyle discreet. I won't provoke them. FootnotesBuild with Skull Grinder!Building Instructions Personal LogI've traversed the decaying jungle, barely escaping the great Boney Wasp. I hiked the mountains, and was chased down by a pack of Skeletal Hounds. I marched through the valley, where I was baffled by a mysterious half-villager, and hunted by a team of Cave-Dwellers. Now, after such a long and perilous journey, I stand before the City of the Mask Makers, exhilarated, determined, and only slightly proud. The gate is impenetrable; I'll have to find another way through. The city is falling apart, inside and out, so it shouldn't be hard to find a crack in the wall. Beyond the gate, and over the wall, I can hear the clickity-clack of skeletal Rahi, an entire ecosystem contained within the walls, living among the ruins, tainted with disease. The last phase of my expedition begins here and now. [Click here to continue reading Wildlife of the Ancient City] Edited December 5, 2015 by Nescent 38 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Makaru Posted August 18, 2015 Share Posted August 18, 2015 Thank you for continuing to populate an empty ecology with neat fauna. Like the Rahi guides of old, some of these are hit-and-miss but pull together really well. 11 Quote Spoiler Alert Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cambion Posted August 18, 2015 Share Posted August 18, 2015 i take it all back. someone hit up the story team, we're making these canon. 8 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Madu Cabolo Posted August 18, 2015 Share Posted August 18, 2015 I've been waiting for this to happen. :3 This is I would pick a favorite creature but there are so many good ones.Some are a little strange, and seem to be the product of I-don't-know-how-to-use-these-pieces; nevertheless, they all work together in the neat little story you have going.The story was a really nice touch, and I enjoy the somewhat ambiguous ending. The Undead Bison and the Plague Bats are highlights for me, although all of the builds were immensely creative. Great job! 2 Quote ~Madu- <}> <}> ~ RPG Profiles: Cresk Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Wazdakka Posted August 18, 2015 Share Posted August 18, 2015 Feels just like an old-school Rahi guide. Love it. A lot. That said, while having very different builds, the Mammoth and Califa end up looking pretty similar. Only a minor nitpick though. 1 Quote Steam Name: Toa Hahli Mahri. Xbox Live Gamertag: Makuta. Minecraft Username: ThePoohster.Wants: 2003 Jaller (from Jaller and Gukko), Exo-Toa, Turaga Nuju, Turaga Vakama, Shadow Kraata, Axonn, Brutaka, Vezon & Fenrakk, Nocturn, ORANGE FIKOU.I got rid of my picture, are you happy? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Millennium Posted August 18, 2015 Share Posted August 18, 2015 Now that must have taken a long time! Creating those superb - in cosideration to being combiners thus being made with a limited amount of parts - MOCs, and writing this amazing short story/journal. I just love it, everything about this post. I am not sure which one of the beasts I can pick as a favourite, there are just so many and so diverse...okay maybe the boulder mite is my fave, also I notice you made a reference to one of your older creations (which was in turn inspired from a beast from a book, idk it's just a nice thing). I am, however, sure that folks at LEGO should hire you. For the combiners AND for the story. 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Petewa Posted August 19, 2015 Share Posted August 19, 2015 Wow...I honestly think I'd like to see a couple of Teluli MOCs, as in, one of him normally, and one of him with the infection. 1 Quote Mataru Nui, an Interactive Adventure Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dallior Posted August 19, 2015 Share Posted August 19, 2015 This is sheer beauty. The wide range of sets you had to work with clearly reflected here. Great job again on all these Rahi, and I'm even more elated by this amazing story. You're as good a writer as you are a MOCer, which is seriously saying something! "10/10" -IGN 1 Quote "Remember when the comics forum had a lot of good stuff? Let's make that a thing again." -Kazi the Matoran Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nescent Posted August 19, 2015 Author Share Posted August 19, 2015 Thanks for the lovely comments, everyone. the Mammoth and Califa end up looking pretty similar.I hear that; they're kind of two versions of the same thing. I hoped their lore would help set them apart. I notice you made a reference to one of your older creations (which was in turn inspired from a beast from a book, idk it's just a nice thing).Yep, the Queasle was based on my Zalif MOC from a couple weeks ago. Admittedly I made that combiner when I was running out of ideas and needed one more for the Ancient City, figured the diamond-skeleton was an easy way to make it interesting. Wow...I honestly think I'd like to see a couple of Teluli MOCs, as in, one of him normally, and one of him with the infection.I thought about doing a drawing, maybe a MOC, but I'd rather leave Teluli's appearance up to the reader's imagination. An infected MOC would be hard since the skeletal bones only exist in that medium-length, which is too long for a child's arms and legs. This is sheer beauty. The wide range of sets you had to work with clearly reflected here. Great job again on all these Rahi, and I'm even more elated by this amazing story. You're as good a writer as you are a MOCer, which is seriously saying something! "10/10" -IGNThanks a lot! I don't consider writing to be my strong point, so I'm just happy I managed to give this a proper ending. Thank you everyone who took the time to read the story! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MarkSurge9411 Posted August 19, 2015 Share Posted August 19, 2015 (edited) If these were sets: Sap Sucker91 pieces$15 Scavanger52 pieces$7.99 King Scavanger65 pieces$9.99 Skull Arachnid43 pieces$6.99 Skull Shredder101 pieces$19.99 Stilted Swamp Crawler90 pieces$19.99 Boney Wasp113 pieces$19.99 Blossom Fox42 pieces$6.99 Bearded Califa91 pieces$19.99 Boney Crawler53 pieces$7.99 Yabbawak38 pieces$4.99 Kidjit52 pieces$7.99 Vulture79 pieces$14.99 Habbarak78 pieces$14.99 Skull Sprinter40 pieces$6.99 Skeletal Hound41 pieces$6.99 Mammoth102 pieces$19.99 Undead Bison85 pieces$14.99 Longneck53 pieces$7.99 Electric Gazzele52 pieces$7.99 Cave-Dweller75 pieces$14.99 Crystal Rex74 pieces$14.99 Fallen Hero62 pieces$9.99 Blazing Coyote87 pieces$19.99 Fire Stalker46 pieces$6.99 Boulder Mite48 pieces$6.99 Tazmiak149 pieces$24.99 Burrowing Spider84 pieces$14.99 Saruna67 pieces$9.99 Kalitar90 pieces$19.99 Golden Fox42 pieces$6.99 Lortch85 pieces$14.99 Queasle50 pieces$7.99 Plague Bats165 pieces$29.99 Forge Lord142 pieces$29.99 Goodness that took forever. I think I messed up on the prices and some of the piece counts, so feel free to correct me. Now if you'll excuse me, it's 5 A.M where I live, and I should go get some sleep. Edited August 19, 2015 by ToaMarkSurge 4 Quote [flash=250,100]http://www.brickshelf.com/gallery/sprxtrerme/BANNERS/thornax.swf Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nescent Posted August 19, 2015 Author Share Posted August 19, 2015 (edited) -snip-Goodness that took forever. I think I messed up on the prices and some of the piece counts, so feel free to correct me. Now if you'll excuse me, it's 5 A.M where I live, and I should go get some sleep.Hah! I remember you did that in my old Wildlife project. It's really cool to be able to see their piece counts like that. These would really rack up the price of the 2015 waves. Edited August 19, 2015 by Nescent 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Logan McOwen Posted August 19, 2015 Share Posted August 19, 2015 Fabulous work. Not only is every model superb (ignoring some peculiar design choices, which I'm sure are due to parts constraints), but the story throughout this post is magnificent. Thanks for this, it's very inspiring. 3 Quote I inadvertently predicted Vorox armour's use in G2. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mate.397 Posted August 19, 2015 Share Posted August 19, 2015 Some are a hit or miss, but I can appreciate the effort you put into them along with the little documentation, I can also see how my Okoto Mountain Bat can be related to your Plague Bats =D Glad to see more life being inserted into the Island of Okoto's ecosystem. I also had an idea for an undead Rahi, but I haven't had time to work on in yet. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MarkSurge9411 Posted August 19, 2015 Share Posted August 19, 2015 (edited) -snip-Goodness that took forever. I think I messed up on the prices and some of the piece counts, so feel free to correct me. Now if you'll excuse me, it's 5 A.M where I live, and I should go get some sleep.Hah! I remember you did that in my old Wildlife project. It's really cool to be able to see their piece counts like that. These would really rack up the price of the 2015 waves. Yeah, that was one of my favorite posts I made on this site XD. Yeah, they definitely would, but I'd buy all of 'em. Anyway, I'm going to recount the Forge Lord's pieces, because I think I miscounted his pieces. Also, do you have any favorites from this "wave" of MOCs? Edit: I recounted, and found that he's only 142 pieces, not 145. Edited August 19, 2015 by ToaMarkSurge Quote [flash=250,100]http://www.brickshelf.com/gallery/sprxtrerme/BANNERS/thornax.swf Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nescent Posted August 19, 2015 Author Share Posted August 19, 2015 Fabulous work. Not only is every model superb (ignoring some peculiar design choices, which I'm sure are due to parts constraints), but the story throughout this post is magnificent. Thanks for this, it's very inspiring.Thanks Logan, glad you like it! Some are a hit or miss, but I can appreciate the effort you put into them along with the little documentation, I can also see how my Okoto Mountain Bat can be related to your Plague Bats =D Glad to see more life being inserted into the Island of Okoto's ecosystem. I also had an idea for an undead Rahi, but I haven't had time to work on in yet.Oh I remember your bat MOC! I'm looking at it now, we had a pretty similar idea for bat-ears. It's cool that our stories work together too. Also, do you have any favorites from this "wave" of MOCs?My personal favorites are the Undead Bison, Forge Lord, and Kalitar. I had the most fun writing the Bearded Califa's lore; it took some inspiration from a documentary I watched about Bison in the Serengeti. Too bad the Kalitar's photo didn't come out so well, it really doesn't do the combiner justice. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MarkSurge9411 Posted August 19, 2015 Share Posted August 19, 2015 Fabulous work. Not only is every model superb (ignoring some peculiar design choices, which I'm sure are due to parts constraints), but the story throughout this post is magnificent. Thanks for this, it's very inspiring.Thanks Logan, glad you like it! Some are a hit or miss, but I can appreciate the effort you put into them along with the little documentation, I can also see how my Okoto Mountain Bat can be related to your Plague Bats =D Glad to see more life being inserted into the Island of Okoto's ecosystem. I also had an idea for an undead Rahi, but I haven't had time to work on in yet.Oh I remember your bat MOC! I'm looking at it now, we had a pretty similar idea for bat-ears. It's cool that our stories work together too. Also, do you have any favorites from this "wave" of MOCs?My personal favorites are the Undead Bison, Forge Lord, and Kalitar. I had the most fun writing the Bearded Califa's lore; it took some inspiration from a documentary I watched about Bison in the Serengeti. Too bad the Kalitar's photo didn't come out so well, it really doesn't do the combiner justice. I loved the Bison and the Hound. Simple, yet they pull off the undead look perfectly. Quote [flash=250,100]http://www.brickshelf.com/gallery/sprxtrerme/BANNERS/thornax.swf Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dallior Posted August 20, 2015 Share Posted August 20, 2015 Whew! I'm glad to say that I just completely built the Kidjit! The Kidjit is a very fun model. The torso is nice and stocky, the masks only help the detail, and I love the inventive building style! 10/10 overall.I also just noticed that the Boulder Mite has the trans-green SDCC Bull Skull mask. 1 Quote "Remember when the comics forum had a lot of good stuff? Let's make that a thing again." -Kazi the Matoran Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nescent Posted August 20, 2015 Author Share Posted August 20, 2015 Whew! I'm glad to say that I just completely built the Kidjit! The Kidjit is a very fun model. The torso is nice and stocky, the masks only help the detail, and I love the inventive building style! 10/10 overall.I also just noticed that the Boulder Mite has the trans-green SDCC Bull Skull mask. Awesome!! As for the Boulder Mite, I used the SDCC mask in the photo, but the instructions call for the regular mask. You don't need the exclusive one, just use whichever one you have. 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Durahk Posted September 7, 2015 Share Posted September 7, 2015 I build the Bolder Mite!!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nescent Posted September 7, 2015 Author Share Posted September 7, 2015 I build the Bolder Mite!!! That's great! That was actually the first combiner I made for the project, since Scorpio was my first Summer set. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Akavakaku Posted September 11, 2015 Share Posted September 11, 2015 Wow, fantastic creations and story! I loved the narration, and the creatures are amazing considering their part constraints. Quote ( The bunny slippers hiss and slither into the shadows. ) -Takuaka: Toa of TimeWhat if the Toa you know best were not destined to be? Interchange: The epic begins Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Naota Takizawa Posted September 11, 2015 Share Posted September 11, 2015 I tried building the fire stalker and the armor piece on the back constantly falls to the side. Quote If you like Pingu & want to support a good project, click here. Also, I've rejoined the BZPRPG & I have a new profile for a new game. Click here to see it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nescent Posted September 11, 2015 Author Share Posted September 11, 2015 Wow, fantastic creations and story! I loved the narration, and the creatures are amazing considering their part constraints.Thanks a lot Akavakaku, glad you liked it! I tried building the fire stalker and the armor piece on the back constantly falls to the side.Ah yes, I remember having trouble securing that piece. I thought the chest armor held it in place, but if not then you'll just have to put some pressure on the Technic part that the axle runs through to apply some friction. I realize that a few of the combiners have poor designs in a spot or two; that's something I'd like to improve in future combiner projects. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tuuli Posted October 25, 2015 Share Posted October 25, 2015 Teluli... Are you trying to be a copycat? 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Shadow Destroyer Posted October 25, 2015 Share Posted October 25, 2015 I showed these images to my brother, (who isn't a fan of bionicle,) and even he thought these were very well-made. I love the story you put together for this Rahi guide, and I can only imagine the time and work you put into building these. I can't believe you also put up instructions as well. Thank you! Now, all we have to do is make this canon. 2 Quote Thank you to the Dark Beings Banner and Avatar Shop for the banner! Brickshelf Gallery BZPRPG Profiles Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lenny7092 Posted October 25, 2015 Share Posted October 25, 2015 I showed these images to my brother, (who isn't a fan of bionicle,) and even he thought these were very well-made. I love the story you put together for this Rahi guide, and I can only imagine the time and work you put into building these. I can't believe you also put up instructions as well. Thank you! Now, all we have to do is make this canon. I agree with the making-them-canon idea, too! These combos are awesome! I love you made them, for the fact that you mixed the summer sets with the winter ones. I love them! 1 Quote I like Lego, Bionicle, and Hero Factory! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nescent Posted October 26, 2015 Author Share Posted October 26, 2015 Teluli... Are you trying to be a copycat?I did think of you when I posted this, hopefully you don't mind the similarity I showed these images to my brother, (who isn't a fan of bionicle,) and even he thought these were very well-made. I love the story you put together for this Rahi guide, and I can only imagine the time and work you put into building these. I can't believe you also put up instructions as well. Thank you! Now, all we have to do is make this canon. Thank you for sharing them! I really couldn't care less if they're made canon though; I'd rather if LEGO made some original Rahi combiners. I'm hoping we'll see some official wildlife next year. I agree with the making-them-canon idea, too! These combos are awesome! I love you made them, for the fact that you mixed the summer sets with the winter ones. I love them! Glad you like them, Lenny! Expect more projects like this, if I can get my hands on next year's sets. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Wiriamu Posted October 26, 2015 Share Posted October 26, 2015 i take it all back. someone hit up the story team, we're making these canon. Agreed-this work is just as good as the old Rahi Beast guide, if not more so-the fact that it's accompanied by an awesome original story is even better. Teluli... Are you trying to be a copycat? I'm sure it's just a coincidence man-unless Teluli would have been called Tuuli before a certain language dispute forced him to have a Naming Day. I love the fact that Teluli's a Jungle Chronicler-what with Takua looking like a Ta-Matoran, Kopeke the Ko-Matoran, Ga-Matoran Hahli and Water Agori Berix, and the dearly departed Po-Matoran Kodan, this would leave only the Onu/Earth coloration unrepresented. The creations are pretty great-I think the Fallen Hero is most intriguing from the story point of view. I would honestly love to read more about the plague and the fate of Teluli. Quote Voicing your opinions with tact is the best way to keep a discussion from becoming an argument.So far as I'm aware, it's pronounced like this: We're ee ah moo. Check out my Creations:EpicsG1 Battle for Spherus Magna - G2 A Lingering ShadowShort StoriesG1 Fallen Guardian - G2 Shadows of Past and Future (The Legend Continues Entry) Head of Stone, Heart of JungleMOCsMask Hoarder, Desert Scourge Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nescent Posted October 26, 2015 Author Share Posted October 26, 2015 Teluli's name was chosen arbitrarily. I just liked the way it sounded, and thought it was fitting for a Bionicle character. I love the fact that Teluli's a Jungle Chronicler-what with Takua looking like a Ta-Matoran, Kopeke the Ko-Matoran, Ga-Matoran Hahli and Water Agori Berix, and the dearly departed Po-Matoran Kodan, this would leave only the Onu/Earth coloration unrepresented.Teluli is supposed to be a wild, hardy character, which is why I went with Jungle - the Region of Jungle is described as being dangerous and swampy, perhaps the most hostile Region on Okoto. Seems like the type of place where a kid like Teluli would be at home. I hadn't considered that there hasn't been a Jungle Chronicler yet in Bionicle lore, I'll remember your comment if I write a similar character in the future. A Chronicler from the Region of Earth would be cool. The creations are pretty great-I think the Fallen Hero is most intriguing from the story point of view. I would honestly love to read more about the plague and the fate of Teluli.I was sure to leave the plague and Teluli's fate up to the reader, since I think I'd have risked getting too dark with it...Nothing dark about the Fallen Hero, though. I like to think there's a secluded tribe of the things living in the mountains, keeping to themselves. Thanks for the comment, glad to hear you enjoyed it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
-Windrider- Posted November 1, 2015 Share Posted November 1, 2015 Congrats on the front page feature! I think I've said it before, but the scope of this project is really without compare. If I had to pick a favorite, I'd go with the Bearded Califa, but there are quite a few examples of strong building technique in here. As Bryan said above, some don't seem to hold up too well against their more inventive companions, but the storytelling, worldbuilding, and massive size of the project make up for it, and then some. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kooler186 Posted November 2, 2015 Share Posted November 2, 2015 ELECTRIC GAZELLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1My favorite one. It makes me want to ripoff that idea for some fantasy story I'm writing. By far one of my favorite MOCs I have seen on this site since I barely use this site anyways. Quote Bionicle Alternate Dimensions: http://www.bzpower.com/board/index.php?showtopic=8823^ Review: http://www.bzpower.com/board/index.php?showtopic=8837My MOC: Artakha Droid http://i485.photobucket.com/albums/rr215/kooler186/ArtakhaDroid_zpsa773a406.png Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pohatu: Uniter of Stone Posted November 2, 2015 Share Posted November 2, 2015 Why are some of the ones at the end missing? Quote I HATE SCORPIOS ~Pohatu Master of Stone, 2015 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nescent Posted November 2, 2015 Author Share Posted November 2, 2015 (edited) The City of the Mask Makers has lain in ruins since the Great Cataclysm, when Ekimu ripped the Mask of Ultimate Power from his brother's face. After many generations of darkness, its infestation of skeletal Rahi will be uncovered. Boulder Mites are small, swarming insect-like Rahi. They feed on flesh, and as such are common among the deceased. They're not quite as much a nuisance as the Sap Suckers I ran into in the decaying jungle, but they're even more prolific. Boulder Mites glow in the dark, and it's always dark here, so these things light up every corner of the city. The Rahi are rather small, with the largest being slightly bigger than my fingertip. When I first entered the city, I found them kind of cute. They'd scurry up to me and sniff at my boot, lose interest, and wiggle off into the shadows. It wasn't until later that I realized they feed on the dead, when I discovered a swarm of the nasty creatures scouring the bones of deceased beast. Similar to the Sap Suckers, Boulder Mites have a straw-like appendage which they use for feeding and feeling. I find these Rahi unsettling, and hope that they thin out further in the city. FootnotesBuild with Skull Scorpio!Building Instructions Very large, and too powerful for their own good. Tazmiak are lively, fast, and oddly stone-like in appearance. Only a small number of these Rahi exist. I've lost track of time. It's always dark here, totally shadowed by thick blue clouds. After studying the Boulder Mites, I found myself walking down an eerie cobblestone path in one of the city's suburbs. It was here that I found a Tazmiak - a massive, excitable Rahi, wandering on its own. The creature did attack me, but I don't think it intended to harm me - for some reason I can't explain, it seemed…playful. It acts like a playful little Oko Kani trapped in a powerful beast's body. On the subject of its body, I noticed a very strange quality about the texture of its skin. The Tazmiak moves in mechanical motions, and its skin seems to be made of stone. Perhaps the entire Rahi is composed of stone, like a great walking statue. I really don't know what to make of this beast. I simply urge any who encounter it to treat it nicely, even if it acts hostile, for it may simply be misunderstood. FootnotesBuild with Skull Basher, Skull Warrior, Skull Slicer!Building Instructions Burrowing Spiders are found in hovels in the ground all throughout the Ancient City. Their lairs resemble teardrop-pits, overflowing with cobwebs and withered cocoons. The giant spider is hostile, terrifying, and quick to strike. If I wasn't so crafty, I'd have been hugged by a Skull Spider way back in the decaying jungle. The things are everywhere, and I've had run-ins with more than I can count. As the nesting place of the Lord of Skull Spiders, it's no surprise that the Ancient City is crawling with spiders. Even in great quantities, I can fend off measly Skull Spiders…but I'm no match for this monstrosity. Large, cleverly-disguised pits of cobwebs are hidden all throughout the city: Nests of the Burrowing Spiders. These particular spiders are absolutely massive - perhaps larger than the Lord of Skull Spiders itself, though I hope I don't have the opportunity to make that comparison. Beside their size, they are reddish in color, with four legs (like the Skull Spiders), two frightening pincers, and a fat abdomen for swelling their miserable nests with webs. Burrowing Spiders are vicious, plentiful, and they will be a pain to deal with when we finally move back into the city. FootnotesBuild with Skull Grinder and Lord of Skull Spiders!Building Instructions The Saruna are a strange, small, and quiet Rahi. They seem friendly, and have extraordinary upper-body strength. They smash boulders casually, either for fun, for exercise, or to display their incredible power. The more rural parts of the Ancient City are home to large rocks, patchy hills, and this strange creature I have named Saruna. They like the rocks - cozying up on them, tossing them around, smashing them to smithereens, or just being around them. I discovered them living peacefully in the rocky passage leading to the middle of the city, and it would seem that this is the only group in existence. I counted twenty-two living in this small community, ranging in size from my own height to the height of a tall Protector. They are short Rahi, but impressive all the same because of their insanely powerful arms. Saruna deliver a shattering blow with ease, and I wouldn't dare challenge them to a fight. They are formidable, and as such are left alone by the other Rahi in the city. Warily, I stepped into their territory to test the boundaries of their hospitality. Maybe it's because I'm so small, but the Saruna were as friendly as a Blossom Fox, and respectfully greeted me when I approached them. I quite like these Rahi, but do not let their approachable nature dispel your caution…they could crush you as easily as they can crush a boulder. FootnotesBuild with Ekimu and Skull Basher!Building Instructions Personal LogI'm making fast progress here in the city. I've explored the ruined suburbs near the entrance, and am making my way toward the Forge. Boulder Mites are an infestation in this part of the city as well, although their numbers may have thinned a bit. Frightening winged Rahi lurk in the cloudy sky, reminding me of the Vultures. I fear they'll strike when my guard is down, but at least I'll have the opportunity to study them. So far they've kept their distance, at least. Being in the Ancient City has been…cathartic. Even after being left to rot all these centuries, it is more alive than I ever could have imagined. Every inch of this place is covered in mysterious history. I wish I had brought a library of books, or an entire team of historical chroniclers to study it all. Alas, I am a team of one. A duel-wielding, four-armed, four-legged, one-of-a-kind Rahi which stalks the ruins of the Ancient City, always thirsty for battle. Most of the buildings have collapsed, or been damaged by the wildlife. I have been investigating whatever architecture is still standing, but all I've found is weathered artifacts and the occasional Boulder Mite…Until now. An impressive structure, one with several stories high and even space below the ground, was home to the Kalitar, a huge and powerful Rahi with four legs, four arms, and Okotoan armaments: Duel axes. Perhaps they were salvaged from the remains of the city, or crafted by the Kalitar itself. Either way, the Kalitar was armed, and desperate for battle. I was chased from the building, reminding me yet again of my encounter with the Boney Wasp. And again, I was saved by my size - the Kalitar was too large to fit through the doorway! In a way, I pity the creature. It would seem that it is trapped, imprisoned within the building's maze of corridors and dungeons. I do wonder how it got there in the first place. The Rahi remains largely a mystery; I didn't learn much from my brief and intense encounter. It has sharp horns and teeth, and it is a very fast runner. I can't imagine how anything could articulate so many limbs. I also can't say how many Kalitar exist, or how common they may be…but I know I'll be more cautious exploring buildings in the future. FootnotesBuild with Skull Basher, Skull Grinder, and Protector of Earth!Building Instructions I have discovered Ekimu's pet, the Golden Fox. The Rahi is roughly the size of an Oko-Kani, and with a similar attitude: Friendly, energetic, playful, and capable. The legends of Ekimu are known all throughout Okoto - that he was the famed Mask Maker in the Ancient City, and the story of his jealous brother Makuta, and the Prophecy of Heroes…To those of us more informed in Mask Maker history, the story of his pet is a popular, albeit simple tale. Ekimu's pet, the Golden Fox, was a one-of-a-kind Rahi which was brought to life by the Mask of Creation, born out of pure light to assist Ekimu in his mask-making. I never dreamed that I would meet the Fox myself - or that it was even still around! Ekimu's ancient, timeless pet approached me, cautiously, excitedly, and greeted me as enthusiastically as the Blossom Fox back in the mountain stretch. I was delighted to meet the fellow in person. As for the Rahi's characteristics, it differs from a common Magma Fox mostly in appearance. As a creature of pure light, it casts a soft warm glow on its surroundings. It behaved similar to a Magma Fox - excitable, energetic, playful - but was more domesticated. I was sad to see the Golden Fox leave, like a beacon of light swallowed by the fog…I wonder where the little guy is now. FootnotesBuild with Ekimu and Mask Stand!Building Instructions Lortches have a similar disposition as the Vultures I found in the mountains. They are a cruel, provocative species which dig and claw at their opponents, and use their many hooks and thorns to pin their victims to the ground. I discovered a gang of tall, evil-looking Rahi stalking the most decayed section of the city. Their hostility was obvious, if only because of their wretched appearance, so I kept my distance, and hid within the rubble to observe. Let me make it clear that Lortches are tall; some of them stood almost as high as a Longnek. Slender, curled stalks on their head and arms attribute a lot to their height, and small, fine claws stick out from their feet and disproportionately long arms. Their feet and hands are both significantly large, which makes them excellent climbers. Strangely, Lortches feed on Boulder Mites. I say this is strange because Boulder Mites are extremely small, and Lortches have all the tools to hunt much larger game. However, the gang which I observed spent all day sifting through the rubble with their long arms, and used their petite claws to pick Boulder Mites out of cracks and crevices. There are certainly enough Boulder Mites to sustain these Rahi, but still, I won't give them an opportunity to attack me - they absolutely look like hostile and effective fighters. FootnotesBuild with Skull Scorpio and Onua: Master of Earth!Building Instructions Queasles are fairly large Rahi which can be found trekking the weathered streets of the Ancient City. Their most interesting quality is their diamond-shaped skeleton, a physical characteristic which I've never seen in any other Rahi. Queasle crossing! The City of the Mask Maker's pathways have held up well enough, and are still in use today. Large, four-legged Rahi called Queasles are a common creature to find sluggishly trotting down the city's many pathways. I personally ran into several of these during my hike toward the Forge, and stopped to study a couple of them. They are an approachable species, and one of the only Rahi I've found which has no combative instincts. At first I wondered how they are able to exist without being hunted by the many hostile Rahi in the city, when I realized the reddish inflammation on the Queasle's tail releases an absolutely foul stench when it is threatened. That appears to be its only defensive ability, but it is an effective one. The Rahi also has an extraordinarily bizarre skeletal structure, with its legs arranged in a diamond shape: One in the front, one in the back, and two at the sides. As such, it moves excruciatingly slowly. FootnotesBuild with Skull Slicer and Protector of Water!Building Instructions Boney, hunched, and horribly aggressive, the Plague Bats are found crawling along the rooftops and sleeping in the ruins of the Ancient City. These diseased bats are responsible for spreading the plague throughout the city and its outskirts. I'm afraid my journey is coming to an end…I don't have much energy left. Presently, I am sitting mid-way along the stairs leading to the Mask Maker's Forge, wounded, for I was attacked. The two flying Rahi, which had been tailing me for days, finally swooped down when I reached the bottom of the Forge. They were a pair of bats - Plague Bats, to be specific. The Rahi were horribly hostile, and dangerous, with elemental powers. One of them was a Plague Bat of Acid, and the other was a Plague Bat of Ice. What's more, these are the creatures responsible for carrying disease throughout the city and its outskirts - they are the reason that all these Rahi show such gruesome decay! I came prepared to defend myself against unfriendly Rahi, but these monsters got the best of me. I did scare them off, but only after a rather unfair fight. I wish I could spill the details, but I have to finish what I started. Something stirs within the Forge ahead. FootnotesBuild with Skull Warrior, Skull Slicer, and Skull Scorpio!Building Instructions The demonic spawn of the Mask Maker's forge. My journal is singed around the edges. I am covered in soot…Burning in the heart of the Ancient City, a great fiery Rahi has been nesting, and minutes ago, I faced it personally. I knew when I started this expedition that I'd be putting myself at great risk - but I never could have dreamed of the Forge Lord, a colossal, one-of-a-kind Fire Rahi. The beast wears an intimidating suit of armor, perhaps crafted by itself using the Mask Maker's tools. Its arms and legs sport large thorns, and thick flames seep from its neck. Immediately upon entering the Forge I was attacked by the thing, which towered ten times my height. As I always have, I used my height to my advantage, by running beneath the Forge Lord's body, crawling up its back (burning myself in the process), and blinding it. Hoisting myself over its blazing shoulders, I directed the Forge Lord toward the edge, and banished it from the Forge. FootnotesBuild with Skull Grinder, Skull Scorpio, and Tahu: Master of Fire!Building Instructions Personal LogThis will be my final entry. Currently, I am standing inside the decaying jungle among Scavengers and Sap Suckers…It's been two weeks since I faced the Forge Lord. In that time, I have made several revelations. First - I have been infected with the plague. I'll be leaving my journal here to hopefully be found, but afterward, I'll be heading back into the Ancient City. I must have been infected during my encounter with the Plague Bats. After defeating the Forge Lord, I stuck around in the Mask Maker's Forge to recuperate, and to study the inscriptions burned into the walls. They were vague, and I can't say with certainly who put them there, but they describe how the Forge Lord came to be, and that the plague was a side-effect of its birth. Plague Bats visited the Forge, and were the first to be infected…They then spread it throughout the Ancient City, and gradually, throughout its many outskirts. I can't be sure what will happen now that the Forge Lord has been slain, but the Sap Suckers seem friendlier, and the Scavengers seem happier, so maybe - hopefully - the disease is dying down. With thirty-five Rahi discovered, observed, and documented, and with my greatest efforts put forth in healing them, I consider this expedition concluded. Signed:Teluli, the Chronicler Edited December 5, 2015 by Nescent 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SynthMav Posted December 1, 2015 Share Posted December 1, 2015 man these are really good i wish I HAD the skull villains then you know i'd build these Quote The Mavrick thanks to Starwars ep. 7 for the avatar pic Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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