BZPRPG - Po-Wahi

[Friar Tuck]

OOC: we're off adventuring, we're off adventuring... weeeee!

 

From Ko-Wahi

 

IC

 

[Outside Po-Koro; The Dark Walk - afternoon]

 

Well that was a terrible start for an adventure.

 

Wouldn't have it any other way I guess.

 

The day had started out great. After hooking up with Merror we decided to strike out from the Massif after three months in seclusion. We had spent the morning following the small path that wound around the mountain, descending in altitude until near sea level, where the cool steppes gave way to dryer, stonier ground. Soon after that the frosty air of Ko-Wahi was gone, replaced with the hot, dry air of Po-Wahi as we approached the Tiro canyon, the unofficial border between Ko, Po, and Onu-Wahi. Up until that point the trip had been very pleasant, marveling at the rapid climate change and listening to Merror. Yes, Merror was a decent storyteller, or at least a news brief; unlike Cael or myself, he had at least for the most part kept up with island happenings during his seclusion, while we had not. Granted, everything he knew was second-hand, but even so listening to his descriptions of how the Koros had changed, the marvelous and strange new technologies, and even the current politics was fascinating. In that morning walk he had more or less brought us up to speed on the major happenings of the island, but I was confident there was a plethora of details that we were missing out, details that would make for very awkward moments down the road.

 

Speaking of awkward moments down the road, it had appeared we had already found one. Or to be more precise, a lack of one.

 

At the Tiro canyon, the road ended. Literally stopped. The three of us just stood there for a while, gazing out over the rocky crevasses and badlands, trying to wrap our heads around this predicament. I mean, why would the road just end?

 

"Huh."

 

My companions looked as me as my musings came forth as a confused grunt, and then blinked as once again disappeared, my Kakama glowing for a brief second as I shot over the rocky dues. A few moments later they saw me return, and the look on my face was all they needed to know. I said it anyway.

 

"It's not just this one. I checked all the roads along the border. They're all gone... as if, scrubbed away on purpose, the sands naturally flowing over what's left. A few hundred bios later there is nothing to go on."

 

There was a long silence before Merror spoke. "I had heard rumors that Akiri Hewkii made an effort to hide the Koro. Not completely, but make it extremely difficult to find. Apparently there was more truth to those than I gave credit for."

 

There was a long silence. "Well, I could find it in a flash," I mumbled, speaking to the ground, "but then trying to mark the path to allow both of you to find it would be extremely difficult and time-consuming... and with the shifting sands my path might disappear by the time we get there." I kicked a rock. Sometimes being the only one in the group w ith a Kakama was a problem-

 

"There is another way... but you might not like it. It involves a tunnel dug by an army of Rahkshi that appeared outside every Koro. Guaranteed to make it there - but we'll need to go underground, through-"

 

My audible groan cut him off as I realized where we would be passing by. Not my favorite place on Mata-Nui to be sure, but if that was the only way to get to Po-Koro...

 

"Fine. I suggest you tell the story behind the 'Dark Walk' in detail to pass the time. I'm not a fan of deep, dark places."

 

* * *

So here we were.

 

In order to get to the nearest elevator to the subterranean "highway" was an hour backtrack, followed by re-tracking our footsteps but underground. Not to mention it was a slower walk, darkness and possible hidden Rahkshi around every corner. Thankfully though our trip was uneventful, and eventually there was a light at the end of the tunnel. I did my best not to grumble, but instead of arriving around noon we were showing up mid to late afternoon; it was impossible to tell without the sun. We'd have to find a room first before looking for the charms, which pushed our plans back by a whole day-

 

Suddenly I felt a hand in mine, and in the dim light I could see Cael smiling gently at me. Instantly I could feel my growing frustration melt away as I gave a sigh and smiled back. If there was one thing she was good at was reading my emotions and very quickly being able to diffuse them. Loss of my powers did not equal loss of emotion and temper.

 

Just simply meant when I got mad I would say some bad words instead of throwing fireballs.

 

I guess that's better?

 

The three of us squinted as we entered the sunlight once again as we exited the Dark Walk, before us the Path of Prophecies. Even with Hafu gone they kept his creations in good repair, something I was grateful for, the road still flanked by carvings, the path eventually leading to the village of Po-Koro itself. Even at this distance I could see the entrance to Po-Koro, it's gates carved into the mouth of a large Matoran head. We were finally here.

 

"Welcome to Po-Koro." I said quietly, grinning as we made our way to the stone gates.

[Athmos]

IC(Maxiam Kilanewb): Respect and discipline was the problem here. The Sentiels were getting soft, even now when the other Koro's wished for it's downfall. He was making a list. And he would be checking it twice. He took several steps towards Dehkaz and whispered to him. "I don't give a brakas if you're a commander or not, if you don't start shaping up I will personally TEAR YOU DOWN TO SIZE!!!" He spun around and looked at Auron. "You just volunteered for 5 laps around the Koro! GO GO GO!!!"

[Geardirector]

IC: Korru

 

"Everything alright here, sir?"

 

A huge, hulking figure had stomped into view behind Dehkaz, his head almost scratching the roof as he looked at the new arrival.

 

"I'm sure you don't want to start a fight right here in HQ, Sergeant. There's probably something a lot more productive we could spend our time doing"

 

The improbably large Stone Lesterin looked attentively at Maxiam as he stood right behind Dehkaz, waiting for an order or an excuse to leap into action.

[sunflower]

IC: Dehkaz

 

Dehkaz raised an eyebrow lazily, just before he felt the ground vibrate slightly beneath his feet. He wasn't in much condition to turn and look, though. As Maxiam turned away, the gunmetal-armored Toa raised his hand slightly, a steely glow surrounding it. It was then, that Maxiam would feel his lips being pulled together by some unseen force. With that done, Dehkaz lowered his hand, and pushed himself off the wall.

 

"Right then," He said, beginning to walk out of the main area. "If anyone needs me, I'll be in the infirmary."

 

The magnetic field he created would wear off after a few minutes, but it gave the Toa of Magnetism a bit of time to escape before Maxiam started again.

[Athmos]

IC(Maxiam Kilanewb): "-UKING DEHKAZ GONNA RAM MY ROD UP YOUR KRAZING A-" and he went off into a violent coughing fit. He walked away from the group, still coughing, and entered his office and slammed the door so hard, dust fell from the roof.

[Lara White]

OOC: Time for Maxiam to get everyone to shape up, we've got even more important visitors.

 

IC: "No, I will leave you to your business. I'm sure I can trust you here." Hewkii said, and left Stannis to go about his business.

 

"A Hero of Kini Nui approaches!" A Sentinel called out as Joske and company neared the gates. Again the Sentinels on guard--fewer than there had been the last time Joske was here--stood to attention, though they barred his way. "I'm sorry, sir." He said. "Your name isn't on our rolls of people to admit."

 

"Why not, Kirel?" Hewkii asked from behind him. "He is a Hero of Kini Nui, after all. Let him pass, and then go put his name on there. Might I ask your name, sir Toa?"

 

The Sentinels stepped aside, relieved at not having to bar entry to such a famous personage. Hewkii walked alongside Joske and company as they entered the village. "My apologies for that incident, I'm not quite sure why your name isn't on that list. Might I ask the purpose of your visit." He pulled a Sentinel aside and told him, in a low voice, "Tell HQ that they have VIPs coming and that we need to change the exit of the Dark Walk. Go." He gave the Sentinel a light push to get him on his way, and the Sentinel took off running.~+~

 

The Sentinel entered the HQ. "A Hero of Kini Nui is here!" He exclaimed. "The Akiri wants us to get everything ready to receive VIPs! And he wants the exit of the Dark Walk ASAP."

 

Edited May 21, 2013 by Lloyd: the White Wolf

[Athmos]

IC(Maxiam Kilanewb):

 

As soon as he left, he reappeared, slamming the door into the wall. "WHAT?!? TODAY!?!"

 

And this group of rabble couldn't even be trusted holding a spear straight. Except Naona and Tera, perhaps. They've almost been in as long as him.

 

"IF YOU DON'T HAVE SOMETHING TO DO, GO DO SOMETHING AND LOOK BUSY!!!" he shouted at the Sentinels. He then sprinted out the HQ and towards the gate. Gotta get to the gate Sentinels before they do something stupid.

[Geardirector]

OOC: Kaitholas Cage is not going to like this one bit, Tera's needed and he's not here

 

IC: Korru

 

Korru obliged by immediately accepting his now-validated report from Tera and went to escort Ghoti to the actual prison cells.

 

"Now you better act civilized, it seems we're getting a big-name visitor.

 

OOC: OK, Shark, Ghoti's going to stay in prison for about a month or so. Thanks to the beauty of BZPtime, that won't actually be a whole month, probably closer to you being able to count the days on one hand. I'll let you know when I feel enough time has passed.

 

Enjoy your stay

[Sharkictus]

IC:Ghoti zoned back in mid arrest, and realized she was done escaping.When she heard the charges she began to think.Resistin arrest? Arrest for what? I didn't do anything wrong until I felt threatened...and no trial...And they can probably get me here..."Hey Miss Po-Koro, I want to make an appeal to the Akiri. I technically did nothing wrong until I felt threatened." EDIT:OOC: OH COME ON, I ACCIDENTALLY DELETED MY LIGHTNING TRIO PART OF MY POST.

Edited May 21, 2013 by Shark

[Geardirector]

OOC: Guess I got a little ahead of myself

 

IC: Korru (Sentinel HQ)

 

Korru considered the problem for a moment, before he had to sort of agree with that one.

 

"Alright, fair point. Just keep that in mind for your trial, best case scenario you'll get one tomorrow"

Edited May 21, 2013 by Geardirector

[AuRon the champion]

IC:

 

Auron, who didn't need to run five laps around the village due to the fact he was holding coins that weight more than him, was waiting for Kilanewb upon his arrival at the gate.

 

"I would've ran five laps like you said 'boss', but I'm fast enough as it is."

[Athmos]

IC(Maxiam Kilanewb):

 

"You think I really care about how fast you are?" Maxiam snapped at Auron as he moved past him and began barking orders at the Sentinels up on the gate, and on the ground.

 

"I WANT TO SEE YOU MOVE SO FAST THAT YOUR LEGS BREAK OFF!!!"

[AuRon the champion]

IC:

 

"If my legs break off, I wont be able to walk you know."

[Athmos]

IC(Maxiam Kilanewb):

 

"THEN CRAWL!!!"

[AuRon the champion]

IC:

 

"Crawling is nowhere near as fun as walking or running. So, I think I'll disregard your suggestion and continue doing what I normally do."

[Athmos]

IC(Maxiam Kilanewb):

 

"Until I breathe my last, you will be under my authority, and unless my orders put you in direct harm's way, you will follow them to the letter. Is that understood, Private Auron?"

[AuRon the champion]

IC:

 

"If you phrased it in any other way, I wouldn't have understood you. So yeah! Got it."

[25K Now!]

IC: Naona

 

"VIPs?"

[Krayzikk]

IC:When Maxiam next opened his mouth to speak, he found that no noise came out. Near the edge of the room, a certain De-Toa gave a sigh of relief. "Much better. Your voice, and volume, was causing me significant distress.""To dumb it down for you, it was painful." Krayn said, irritably. He was always somewhat annoyed by people who were unnecessarily loud. They gave him headaches.

[Light]

OOC: *salutes*

 

Happy days for phones to not update on Po.

 

IC: Tera ignored the Sergeant and nodded. "Appeal tomorrow. Now, if you'll excuse me, we have important visitors."

 

Tera saluted Korru and turned to address the rest of the Sentinels. "You heard the man. Onu-Toa and Ve-Toa, begin work on the entrance of the Dark Walk."

 

"Everyone else, get ready to receive a hero."

[Friar Tuck]

IC

 

[Po-Koro - afternoon]

 

The first sign of change was apparent the moment we stepped up to the gate.

 

There were a handful of Sentinels on guard - fewer than the last time I had been here - but the moment we came into view they stood to attention... barring our way into the village. To emphasize the point a pair of matoran-mounted kikanalos lumbered up behind us, their long lances pointed casually in our direction.

 

"Name?" While polite, they were fairly stone-faced and rigid. I gave a confused and curious glance to my companions, who shrugged, just as lost as I was.

 

"Uuuhhhh... Toa Joske? You know, the famous kohlii-star-turned-toa-hero? The guy who has his name chiseled into your Kohlii Grand Champion Tablet more times than anyone else?" One of the guards began to sort through a small stack of scrolls, and what came out of his mouth next I could not believe.

 

"I'm sorry, sir, but your name isn't on our rolls of people to admit."

 

To say I was floored barely did my expression justice. I stood there like a gaping imbecile, my brain unable to process what I had just heard. Had I just been denied access to a Koro? There was a list of people who could enter? Before I could make a reply however a familiar face appeared at the gate.

 

"Why not, Kirel?" Hewkii asked, coming from behind. "He is a Hero of Kini Nui, after all. Let him pass, and then go put his name on there. Might I ask your name of your companions, sir Toa?"

 

The Sentinels stepped aside, apparently relieved at not having to bar entry to such a famous person. Through my stunned stupor I managed to mumble out Merror and Cael's names, and theirs was quickly scribbled down as well. As we entered the Koro Hewkii walked alongside us, speaking in regretful tones. "My apologies for that incident, I'm not quite sure why your name isn't on that list. Might I ask the purpose of your visit?" As I formulated an answer I saw him pull aside a Sentinel and speak in a low voice, something about VIP's and the Dark Walk. By the time he turned back with a smile I had found my voice.

 

"Um, well, I guess you could say it's, um, personal business... there were some things that I never had the chance to finish before participating in the battle of Kini-Nui... " Under normal circumstanced I would have been more concise and open, but my head was still swimming from the bizzare turn of events.

 

Had that actually just happened?

Edited May 22, 2013 by Friar Tuck

[EmperorWhenua]

Ic: "I'm surprised you managed to leave my true home," Stannis Maru said, his level and sour voice somehow transformed to music to Joske's ears. "Is this a sojourn, or did the thirst for adventure anew stir your hearts sufficient to depart the Massif?"

 

Stannis' weapons were crossed at his back as he approached Joske and the others. He held out a fist to bump initially, but just as Joske moved to accept the gesture the two heroes embraced warmly. "It has been a while, Joske. And Cael, looking lovely as I saw you before. I don't believe I know the third, however..."

 

"I'm Merror," he introduced himself.

 

"Good to meet you, Merror. Now, Joske. Why are you here?" Stannis said and nudged Joske away from Hewkii with an arm about his friends' shoulders.

[Lara White]

IC: Hewkii easily slid into the group, though outsized by the Toa. "Ah, Joske. You have changed over the months." He said. "As have we all, I expect. I wish to apologize for the scene at the gate. Po-Koro takes its defense seriously, wounded though we are." he said.

 

"I will leave you to your 'personal matters,' but if you ever need anything--a guide around the village, a favor--you merely have to ask me. We do not take our protectors lightly." Hewkii said before leaving.

 

Edited May 22, 2013 by Lloyd: the White Wolf

[Friar Tuck]

IC

 

[Po-Koro - afternoon]

 

To think I would never have been so happy to see the ever-serious Prophet again. Even as Stannis expertly guided us away from Hewkii the matoran followed, once again apologizing for the incident at the gate and offering any services we might require. I smiled weakly and thanked him as he left, promising to do so if I felt the need. After he had departed I finally felt myself relax in the aftermath Toa Maru's embrace, his rock-solid presence doing wonders for my psyche, already my confusion retreating as I felt myself center once again. I smiled sheepishly at him.

 

"To answer your first and last questions, a mixture of both. It's the Temple of Creation... the one place I never went to."

 

Immediately I could see the question in his eyes. He was one of the few people that knew the full extent of my former quest, and was the recipient of my success. My last statement however threw a hammer in the works, for how could I have gained all six crystals without visiting all of the temples? I raised a hand, and he remained respectfully quiet.

 

"Let's just say our late mutual friend decided to cheat for me and managed to steal this temple's stone without unlocking the front door. While I know it's empty I guess I feel the need to open it myself and finish what I started all those months ago. You could say I don't feel ready to have the 'thirst for adventure' until I can put this behind me... you know? I... need to finish this. If not for my own peace of mind."

 

I stared at the sandy ground, lost in thought. In the grand scheme of things it was a waste of time, but to me it was extremely important. I just had to do it, this drive that wouldn't go away until I completed my quest. Looking back up, my unnatural blue eyes piercing into his own, I smiled softly. "As much as Hewkii offered the services of his Koro, I would be honored if you joined us while I was here, or at least tagged along. Considering the role you and I played in Makuta's defeat I would not mind actually getting to know you better, or at least have a decent conversation or two. Besides, I feel like I owe you one, putting in a good word at the Massif and all that."

 

I paused, my smile turning into a mischievous grin. "Though, there's something I've been meaning to talk to you about. How is it that a Matoran of Plasma who hails from Ko-Wahi ends up becoming a Toa of Stone and defending the badlands of the island? Sounds like you're having a mid-life identity crisis if you ask me."

 

I snickered quietly, having a joke at Stannis' expense. He might not know it, but humor was the way I dealt with stress. With everything that happened today I had a lot of it, so I took advantage of the moment to help dissipate of the the tension that had built up in the back of my neck. Besides, after working with Reodin I'm sure he could take a poke. If I was bad, that guy was worse. I almost felt bad for Stannis.

 

Almost.

 

"Know a good place we can spend the night? It's getting a little late now to search for charms and lost temples and I would not mind catching up."

[25K Now!]

IC: Naona

 

"I still don't know what's going on," said Naona, a tone of protest present in her voice. "Can someone please explain?"

[EmperorWhenua]

Ic: Stannis' eyes remained steely as he took Joske's jocularity but perked when he was tasked with suggesting a place to crash. "I stay at the house of Toa Noran. Come with me, it's this way," he said dryly then explained the status of his host. "Noran was appointed village defender by Turaga Onewa in the latter days of the Great War, then left on several missions. He's on extended leave now and willed me his house for as long as I need it." He closed the door after all four toa had entered. "I hope it's not too much longer."

 

"You're not happy here, are you?"

 

Stannis shook his head. "I'm not suited for this place. You knew it as soon as you saw me. Your joke..." he explained, "it's not funny because that's what I feel. Did you know I was a Ta-Koro Guard once?" he said and pulled a ceramic jug out and served cactus water from it for the guests. They sat around the round table in the center of the room. "Most don't. I was a warrant officer. The work was enjoyable but I eventually felt cooped up after... something happened. Now I hold all the power I can ask for but still am imprisoned. I don't belong here, I belong everywhere else. I'm not meant to serve Po-Koro or its people, I'm meant to serve everyone. And the culture here... oh, gods, the culture drives me insane!"

 

He ceremoniously gestured at a shelf full of little statuettes of his likeness. "I don't know how many more times I can bear this dunderheaded ritual of carving and creating from the deserts. I'm a cog that doesn't fit. I have to get out of this place routinely to remain sane." He shook his head and ended his rant by emptying his cup.

 

"I'd be happy to go with you to the Temple of Creation. You'll need a guide for it anyway and I..." he remembered one of the first stops he made on his quest with the Companions, "have already been there once."

[Geardirector]

IC: Korru

 

After depositing Ghoti's mask and weapons in the storage room, the humungous Lesterin returned to the main quarters, only to see guards run around like crazy to prepare for the VIP's.

 

"Look busy" he remembered the sergeant had yelled, and decided to go with it.

 

He unstrapped his broadsword, and sat down by his desk, proceeding to go about polishing the blade.

[Zacian]

IC: Throng

 

He crouched on the hot desert ground of Po-Wahi. The hot sun had made him thirsty. He went to the Koro to get a drink.

 

OOC: Throng is open for interaction.

[Hanako Herupa]

IC: Naona

 

"I still don't know what's going on," said Naona, a tone of protest present in her voice. "Can someone please explain?"

 

IC: (Hari)

 

"I'm not exactly sure myself ma'am...wait! That's Joske Nimil that just walked past. Hero of Kini Nui, and the healer, Cael, I've heard she saved many lives not only in Ga-Koro but around this island! And they came to Po-Koro of all places!" Hari answered, already growing excited, but remembered what Naona had previously said, and calmed herself down before continuing on.

 

"That other Toa he was talking to is Toa Stannis of the Toa Maru. They were the ones who managed to defeat Makuta, and he is their leader. Exciting to see so many famous people in Po-Koro, huh ma'am?" Hari asked, already getting giddy again.

 

OOC: If that was a nod to the Toa Noran I played you made my day EmperorWhenua.

[Mr. House]

IC: (Junyaus/Po-Koro Streets/Po-Koro)

 

Jun was one of the clothing merchant's favorite clients. The spy browsed the specialty section of the store, looking intently at the rather high-end items. There were suits of wool, robes of silk, finely made doublets and so much more. It was one the more enjoyable parts of his job.

 

"Do you have any monk robes?"

[sunflower]

IC: Jesyhk [Po-Koro, Sentinel Stables] People said she was crazy. Which was okay, because people said a lot of things. Not all of them exactly sane things, either. Which was funny, because they also seemed to think she was deaf. Which was also okay, because then they left her alone. Which was very good. Jesyhk smiled slightly, scratching just behind the eye of a massive Kikanalo lounging out in the sand next to her. The rahi dwarfed the purple-armored Lesterin seated next to him, to the point where his shadow completely covered her up. "But people are funny anyway, huh?" Jesyhk said to the Kikanalo, though the rahi just looked at her with a single, golden eye. Well fine, if he didn't want to talk.OOC: Open for interact, yay~

[Friar Tuck]

OOC: lol. Don't worry kiddies, there'll be time to RP with my group... just not ATM

 

IC

 

[House of Toa Noran/Toa Stannis, Po-Koro - afternoon]

 

"Wanderlust is a powerful feeling... "

 

I found myself staring thoughtfully at the shelf filled with the mini-Stannis', tapping my chin absentmindedly. I've felt the same feeling before; this is why when, as a matoran, I was rarely found in Ta-Koro doing my guard duties, instead off exploring or playing Kohlii in some remote location. Even as a toa I wasn't exempt from it, which made my quest that much easier to do - in enjoyed traveling, trying to avoid staying in one place too long. Maybe that's why I left the Massif? One of many probably.

 

My thoughts abruptly returned to the present as I gazed around the table. Stannis was relaxed in his chair, cup empty, looking more calm after being able to vent a little. I smiled inwardly; never ceased to amaze me how normal all of us were, even those we held in such high regard. First Angi, now the Prohpet - my first meeting with him as a matoran and then again as a Toa left such an impression with me... it was nice to know the stoic stone guardian had hopes, dreams, and distastes like the rest of us. Cael meantime had somehow managed to turn her cup of cactus juice into a steaming glass of tea, a gift I still hadn't been able to figure out. Thanks to our previous adventures she was taking this in stride, and apparently enjoying being in Stannis' company. Merror... he was the only one that looked left out, his face a mixture of unbridled excitement and utter confusion.

 

"Well that's good news," I continued, speaking of Stannis' comment of the temple, "At least that will take out a lot of time and searching. I cannot tell you how annoying it was sometimes to find those temples. Still, knowing where the temple is is useless until we find all the keys."

 

With that I pulled out my knapsack and emptied out a side pocket, a pile of white stones cascading on the wood table. The charms struck a stark contrast with the dark wood beneath it, Merror reaching forward and touching one in marvel. "We still will need the three required to open the door before we head out, and that might take a while, depending on the cooperation of the populous - though that can be done tomorrow. Meantime I think it's only fair to bring our new accomplice up to speed."

 

So for the next hour or so I - with the occasional interjection of Stannis from the Company's point of view - told the story of my quest to find the Temple Crystals, with the eventual goal of opening the Keeping Place for the Company's unique masks. It was quite the tale to recount, but it was done without much interruption from Merror, who seemed to grasp the finer details quite well. There were a few points I left out though: Heuani, Cael's death, and my temporary transformation. Granted, it took some fancy footplay to make some parts make sense (exchanging Heuani with a simple agent of Makuta, etc), but I didn't feel comfortable enough with Merror yet to let him into my full confidence. And it wasn't like I was being dishonest - I could see that he knew there was information he wasn't being told, but was respectful enough not to say anything... at least not now. I had no doubt he would eventually find out or be told, but for now that's what he was going to get from me. As I finished I picked up the Charm of Courage.

 

"So that's why I'm here. Never got to go to the last one, so we need to find the last three charms to complete the set. Which we will start looking for tomorrow."

 

The sun was still up, but the shadows were staring to become longer. I turned once again to Stannis. "As much as I would love to spend the rest of the evening touring the Koro, I need to know: what happened here? Why such the tight security? Refusing people to enter? I don't know if it's just me but I get the distinct feeling of slight... paranoia? This is, well, strange."

Edited May 23, 2013 by Friar Tuck

[Geardirector]

IC: Korru (Sentinel HQ)

 

The door opened to reveal a large, humungous mass come stomping out of the Sentinel headquarters.

 

The large Lesterin in question didn't notice Jesyhk as he unstrapped a large broadsword from his back and held it out in front of him, letting the sunlight play on the polished steel.

 

"Good as new" Korru triumped silently.

Edited May 22, 2013 by Geardirector

[Ghosthands]

IC (Merror)

 

As Merror strode abreast with Joske and Cael towards the village gate, a crease began to creep across his forehead. As the conversation between Joske and the guards progressed, it grew into a frown.

 

Even when Hewkii arrived and resolved the situation and Stannis, legendary leader of the Maru, lead them off towards his abode, the look of grim foreboding did not fully disappear from his face. As Stannis inquired as to his identity, he did not at first realise the question had been directed at him.

 

"I'm Merror," he answered briefly in preoccupation. Walking a little behind the others, he returned to his thoughts.

 

"Paths destroyed? Guard contingents at the gate? 'List of approved visitors'?" he muttered to himself in incredulity. "The villages have changed. I've been away too long..."

 

Having entered the hut Stannis called home, Merror took a cup of water from Stannis, thanking him, and sat back, putting the concerning developments as far out of his mind as he could, and listening intently to the conversation. Some of it he did not understand, having heard only what was published in the Daily, but he listened patiently, showing no confusion save a slight lowering of the eyebrows.

 

Joske finally realised that the veteran needed to be brought up to speed, and began his explanation of his part in the events leading up to Makuta's fall. As he spoke, Merror gazed at the beautifully carved charms that were the proof of his adventures; reaching out, he touched one, his finger gently tracing the circular symbol of Purity engraved into the white stone.

 

He listened attentively to Joske's tale - and how could he not? It was a story as fascinating as it was unique, and his respect for the ex-Kolhii star rose as he heard how Joske, Cael and Agni (interesting how often that last name came up - it was one he knew well from Ta-Koro) had travelled across the island in search of these charms, solving riddles and braving dangers. It reminded him of many of his own exploits...though none of his had held such paramount importance for the island.

 

Yet even as he listened, it was as though he sensed patches in the fabric of Joske's speech. Details that seemed ever so lightly fuzzy, events that were glossed over just a little too quickly; had he not been listening with his utmost attention, he would not have noticed them, but his experienced intuition told him Joske was not sharing everything. It was similar to what he had felt after he asked about the Toa of Light, and as then, he did not press the matter. His fellow Toa clearly had good reasons, whatever they were, and Merror wasn't going to disrespect them. So he sat silent, nodding his understanding, absorbing every word.

 

"So that's why I'm here," Joske finished. "Never got to go to the last one, so we need to find the last three charms to complete the set. Which we will start looking for tomorrow."

 

Merror nodded once more.

 

"That's an inspiring story, Joske, and I won't soon forget," he said, smiling. "I have many myself, but none quite like yours. It's a privilege to have heard it first-hand."

 

Joske smiled back at Merror's words, and turned once again to Stannis. "As much as I would love to spend the rest of the evening touring the Koro, I need to know: what happened here? Why such the tight security? Refusing people to enter? I don't know if it's just me but I get the distinct feeling of slight... paranoia? This is, well, strange."

 

"I agree," said Merror, his smile fading and that grim concern creeping back into his voice. "Makuta's gone, the Matoran are free, and this village feels more at war than ever. Why?"

 

His tone was not accusatory; he could see that Stannis distanced himself wherever possible from Hewkii's politics. But all the same, Stannis was about as high-profile as you could get, and he had to know something about the disturbing change that had come over Po-Koro.

[Athmos]

OOC: Maxiam Kilanewb is being Retcon-ed in this here post, so consider all past interactions with him, that took place in this thread, null and void. Unmentioned interactions that took place, that weren't mentioned whatever. He will be better this time. Hopefully.

 

Here we go again.

 

IC(Maxiam Kilanewb):

 

Maxiam Kilanewb walked through Po-Koro with a purpose. No real purpose, actually, but it was hammered into him to move with a purpose. He kept his back straight, his chin parallel with the ground, and his eyes looking ahead of him. It was more of a modified march then anything else.

 

Anyone could recognize him by his desert chocolate-chip camouflage and his matching cap. Only Sentinel wear to camouflage. Was a bit of a source of pride for himself. The ranks of Sargent shined on his collar, another source of pride. He knew he would never get promoted past that ranked. He was good at what he did, and what he did was yelling. Loudly. At privates.

 

A Matoran Sentinel was standing guard outside a hut. Weakly standing, almost sitting on the ground. Maxiam saw him and diverted his path towards him. A few brief words with the Matoran, and he was standing at attention again. Maxiam nodded and continued on his way.

 

Yes, he was good at what he did.

[Lara White]

IC: A letter, sealed with wax, arrived at Junyaus' abode. Inside were orders to return to Ko-Kor and recruit a set of eyes there.

 

[Mr. House]

IC: (Junyaus/38 Kohi Lane/Po-Koro)

 

Junyaus, with his fine set of monk robes in hand, went to his home in the Merchants' District, Po-Koro. It was a fairly rare sight, 38 Kohi. The five-hundred widget hut he had barely used. Being usually out and about spying, Po-Koro was often a quick stop to deliver reports and get assignments. Usually in person.

 

So it was to his surprise, when he opened the door to find that a letter had gone through the slot. Laying on the black tile floor was an official-looking letter, sealed with a wax seal. Cautiously, Jun picked it up. It could be one of those photothermic parcel bombs that other spies were using. He looked for the signs of it, glowing of lightstone particles, lumps and bits of metal. After five minutes, he decided that the letter was legitimate. He took the letter opener and opened it quickly.

 

It was a letter from the Akiri's office. It told him to search for informants and moles to help establish Po-Koro's hidden presence in Ko-Koro.

 

"Interesting."

 

Immediately, Jun set to work on preparing his disguise. He was going to pose as a wealthy merchant. Going to his bedroom, he reached into a filing cabinet, and retrieved a file from a folder labelled 'Merchant'. The character he would assume was called Aihus. He was a wealthy tools merchant from Ta-Koro, but lived in Onu-Koro. The character would dress fine, would have two children, and own a racing Ussal called Tir. According the the options, at least. But heck, it would work.

 

He prepared a wallet, with a fake family portrait and hidden lockpicks. He put it in the pockets of the fine blue suit he was going to wear. Putting on a pair of snow-boots, and grabbing a black traveling cloak, he went out and onwards to Ko-Koro.

[sunflower]

IC: Jesyhk

 

Jesyhk made a small sound, surprised to see anyone else nearby. And the fact that she hadn't expected to see anyone else. For a moment, she just stared at the massive Lesterin and his equally massive sword.

 

"Um..."

[25K Now!]

IC: Naona

 

"Oh, the former Kolhii player."

[Geardirector]

IC: Korru (Sentinel HQ)

 

Satisfied with his work, Korru turned to walk back inside, but stopped when he caught sight of another Lesterin sitting by the stables.

 

"Oh, hello, didn't see you there" he said,