I asked:

How much of the bionicle storyline is in your hands?
like does lego tell you: "we want another toa!"
and you fit it in to the story line.
or is it all up to you?

He answered:

The overall concept for a year's storyline is crafted between the heads of the story team and the LEGO product developers. The concept is then given to a writer who creates a story bible from it. During that process, I and the rest of the story team meet and discuss the nuts and bolts and how it will be executed in the comics, web, novels, etc. Then after the bible is done, we work from that -- that has character descriptions, high points of the story, etc. What I do with the comic (and now the Scholastic books) is figure out what happens between points A and B. Sometimes there is a lot that needs to be developed, sometimes not much, but it all has to be approved by the story team heads.

So, for example, last week met in California to discuss the 2004 movie, some of the storyline around that and in that, and then we discussed what the plans were for 2005 and suggested changes or things we could go more in depth about. There is a lot to coordinate with BIONICLE, so we have to meet or at least talk a lot.

Greg

and to summerize that, my first choice

Oops, forgot you can't edit pinned topics . I have a few more Q's and A's
Me: Does the Mask Maker live on Metru-Nui and is it a Great Being?
Greg: Can't answer it.

Me: At the end of the first Mata-Nui online game, Vakama says that Takua found his mask and staff. Did he do this for all the Turaga and will we find out the truth about this in 2004?
Greg: I don't know if he did it for the other Turaga or not, but it will not be coming up in '04. All that happened on Mata-Nui and '04 is about Metru-Nui.
That's all I have for now but I will have more soon.

Kopaka 22

I was looking through questions and one popped up in my head.

i asked:

i was reading through some of your Q&A's and
you said that the Toa become turaga when their destiny is complete. so is there a goodguy evolution:
Matoran-toa-turaga?

he answered:

Seems to be that way. However, it has never been established whether the current Toa were ever Matoran, or if they were perhaps created as Toa from the start. That is an interesting mystery to explore someday.

Greg

QUOTE

Dear dear Greg, (Thanks for the super-fast reply last time!) QUOTE   5.) We could sit here and argue all day about the 6 best Kraata powers, so I'll try not to be nit-picky. But there is one that says it can put a whole village asleep. Think about it; they want to find the herald , so put a villiage into a coma and search for him when you know he's not going anywhere. Do you know anything about this Rahkshi? Um, no, the power is sleep -- it says nothing about putting an entire village asleep. You would have to do it one Matoran at a time. http://www.lego.com/eng/bionicle/masks.asp?type=kraata Stage 6- Redish Gold/Sand Yellow Mettalic (Bottom Right) "Has the power to instantly put an entire village to deep sleep." 1.) QUOTE   If you will recall, after the Kal were defeated, the Toa said that the Turaga would take care of the remains [of the Kal]. Hmm, no I don't recall. I don't doubt you or anything, but do you remember when they said that? I'll have to rererererererereread some comics today... 2.) Can you tell us if the current Turaga turned from Toa to Turaga before or after they came to Mata-Nui? 3.) Can you tell us, (whatever the masks may be,) did the Toa Metru have only one mask each or many masks like the Toa Nuva? Thanks Greg, you rock! QUOTE 1) Okay, well, I came up with the powers of the kraata and "put an entire village deep asleep" was not what I wrote. I will have to have a talk with the web folks. 2) The line about the Turaga cleaning up the mess is probably from last May's issue. 3) No, I can't talk about when the Toa Metru transformed to Turaga. 4) Far as I know, each uses only one mask in the storyline. Greg

QUOTE

Hi Greg! Love the comics! Anyway, I have a few questions: 1) What's happening with the Ussanui? Will Takanuva re-construct it and bring it to Metru Nui? Probably, yes. 2) Was Jaller the only Matoran to die on Mata Nui? Far as I know, yes. 3) When Takua was introduced in the storyline, was the plan always for him to be the Seventh Toa? Takua was originally created for the GBA game to be a sort of "everyman" Matoran. I have no idea how soon after that a decision was made about his destiny. 4) The first thing Takutanuva says is 'Light has revealed the will of Mata Nui!'. Does this mean that Takanuva has made Makuta see sense or what? Yes. 5) In the movie, when Jaller dies, Takua kneels down by his side. Turahk was still functioning, so why didn't it just attack Takua then whlie he was vulnerable? I am sure the Toa had reached there by then and were blocking it off. 6) Does the Bionicle symbol (the Unity, Duty and Destiny one) have a particular name? Not that I know of. 7) Can you tell us how futuristic Metru Nui is? I mean, is it like a teeming metropolis with flying vehicles and stuff or is it like a larger version of a Mata Nui village? Wait and see. 8) In the 2004 storyline, is there only going to be one Turaga on Metru Nui (Turaga Dume)? Again, wait and see. 9) You say that Metru Nui is going to have some of the same Rahi as Mata Nui. Are there going to be Ussals and Gukkos on Metru Nui? Ussals, definitely, and Gukkos I would assume so, someplace. 10) Do you know if the voice actors for Mask of Light are going to be the same for The Mask Maker? I don't know. 11) Is Takanuva going to have any important roles in next years's storyline? He will be present, but he is not the focus. 12) You say we'll see the Manas before the end of the year. Where are they at the moment? In Makuta's lair? On Metru Nui? The Manas are in the Scholastic anthology Tales of the Masks. They retreated even further underground folllowing their defeat by the Toa Kaita. Thanks!

QUOTE

Hi, Greg! I'm sorry to bug you again, but this really gets me - the Vhisola. It seems... empty to me. The back view, at least. But I noticed a size 3 peg in between the legs on back picture So my Questions are: 1) Does a back armor attach to it? Otherwise it doesn't look that great. 2) Will all Matoran masks have sorta these great colors, like painted? 3) Will those hip joints be movable? Ones that connect arms and legs to the body. 4) Who are the heroes that have to find the secret of the discs? Matoran or Toa? Because if it was Matoran, Ahkmou could be sorta a traitor! Thanks Greg! You're the best!

Yes on #2 ..the rest I either can't answer or don't know the answers too. I have seen pics of the sets but have not seen the sets themselves.

Greg

Hey Greg,

Just a few questions about ... Vhisola, wasn't it? Hard name. ><


We see him with a kind of gun, which I'm guessing is for the disc. Was this gun made for the Matoran so that they could still throw discs in their new form, or was/is it a part of technology that they found or find or created in Metru Nui? To simplify it, is it made on Mata Nui, or Metru Nui?

What were the discs (the Mctoran discs) made for, and when? They have uses besides keeping mad Rahi at bay... (well, I'm guessing they do, because in MNOLG2, Halih uses a disc to dislodge a rock, and free a bridge)

Thanks,

Althane


1) It was made on Metru Nui. The 2004 storyline is set during the period when the Turaga were Toa, before they came to Mata Nui. Very little was produced on Mata Nui, because they did not have the facilities to do a lot of manufacture.

2) I can't answer that, you will have to wait until Jan.

Greg


Hmm... interesting...

1. is that the final design for Vhisola?

Yes, BZP took that shot this week when they visited LEGO.

2. will he be able to combind with the other 2004 matoran?

Yes, she will.

3. why does the disk he have have the number 226 on it?

All Kanoka disks have three-digit codes, the significance of which will be explained early in 2004.

Greg

thanx!!

this means the VHISOLA IS A GIRL!!!!!!!!!!!

Sorry, I know this is old, but I didn't know this topic existed.

QUOTE (GregF @ Oct 10 2003, 04:22 AM)

QUOTE I haven't received any Bionicle comics, so I don't have many clues I can count on for accuracy or information other than MNOG I and II and the mini movies that talk about the Bohrok conflict. What information can you give me about how Matorans, Toa, etc. came to be on Mata Nui? Born, built, showed up in a cannister, popped out of thin air... I assume that there have been hints in the comics, but not having seen them... How would one go about getting those comics? I seem to remember reading something about getting them for free or how to get them. One last question for today (it's still Thursday in Seattle). Is there a more official, accurate, or detailed map than the one available as a Wallpaper from Bionicle.com? I collect maps (and some aerial photos) when I can find them. The comics are available through the LEGO Club, which is free to join -- I believe you can sign up through LEGO.com. The first 15 issues will also be available in a graphic novel from DC in stores early next year, I believe. No information has been presented in the stories up to now on how Matoran come to be, other than the fact that they do not reproduce biologically and that no new Matoran have come into being since they arrived on Mata Nui. We will be getting more into this next year. As for a map, you could check the Official Guide to BIONICLE that is out in stores now, but not sure it is way more detailed than what you have already seen. Greg

QUOTE (GregF @ Oct 14 2003, 04:32 AM)

QUOTE Are the mini-movies at Bionicle.com to be taken as accurately as the comics for informational purposes, or should they be considered "based on the BIONICLE comics" in the same way that TV movies are based on actual events? As a matter of curiosity I was wondering how so many spelling errors crept into the first three comic books. Is the text hand-printed or is it put in place like pasting text onto an image with Word. I used to work in a print shop, so I won't get lost if you give me a semi-technical answer. (Unless you're talking about machine brands or computer programs that aren't commonly used. It has been awhile.) By the way, when I was looking for the page to subscribe to the BIONICLE comic I found the online editions. They did some pretty neat effects that I didn't quite expect. Since that was all I really needed I haven't bothered to subscribe, but I still might go for the Graphic Novels when they come out. Thank you for your help, Hi, We try to make the mini-movies as accurate as possible, but some artistic license has been taken in the past. Next year, however, we have managed to make everything much more consistent by having the movies done a lot earlier in the process. I believe the lettering is done on computer, and I am not aware of much in the way of spelling errors in the early issues. All of that is handled by DC, so I do not know that much about how it's done. Also, the only way to "subscribe" to the comic is to join the LEGO Club, which is free. If you are in the U.S., the comic comes with every issue of the magazine. If you are in Europe, it is more spotty as they do not carry every issue. Greg

Some info I got from greg: Toa Metru will not have the same weapons as 2004 matorans.

I don't know if this answers much.

QUOTE

What are these "Kanoka" people keep talking about? Collectibles. Is there any purpose for the metallic coloration on the Matoran Metru (I just like to call them that), and why that Ga-Matoran Metru's mask is grey at the top and colored at the base? I have some theories as to why it was done that way, but I need to talk to the campaign managers in Denmark to confirm them. In the picture of the back of the Ga-Matoran Metru, she had no back thing, did they just take it off to show you how she works? I have no idea, I wasn't there when the photos were taken. Now, is 2004 based on before the 2001 story? Or a follow-up on 2003's? And what happens after the Mask of Light? Will we ever know? Or will we just learn about before 2001's story? Yes, it is before 2001. And yes, you will eventually get the story on post-MOL. We are not done with those characters yet. Will there be creature sets? Most likely yes, eventually. If 2004's story is based before 2001's, then why and how did the Toa Metru become Turaga? And how did the Matoran Metru become Tohunga? And why can't they remember anything of the past (excluding the Turaga)? Well, I will answer your last one first. As you may recall from '01, there was a line about Makuta weakening the powers of the Matoran -- that both reduced them in stature and robbed them of their memories of Metru Nui. As for how the Toa became Turaga, that is part of next year's story so you will have to wait on that. Are there six villains and a macho one? Or just six villains and no macho one? Or no six villains and one macho one? Wait and see. WAIT! If this takes place before 2001, and it is on Metru Nui, will we see Mata Nui, the being? Or does he get put to sleep on Metru Nui before 2004's story? Can't answer it.

Gregs answers in bold.

QUOTE

QUOTE   Hello Greg, couple 'o questions for 'ya. 1- You said Ga-Metru... could you elaborate if you can? Is it like Ga-Koro in Metru-Nui? It's one district of the city. 2- How could there be new Matoran? I dont quite understand... If they are on Metru-Nui, and it is from the Turaga's past, then why didn't they bring her and\or the other Matoran with them to Mata-Nui? Or did they, and they changed names? All of the Matoran who live on Mata Nui came from Metru Nui ... including some of the ones we are releasing for '04, and others like Nuparu and Kongu who will appear in next year's storyline. But you will notice there are a lot more Matoran on Metru Nui than there ever were on Mata Nui -- and the why of that will be part of next year's story too. 3- Will the Rahi on Metru-Nui(If there are any) have sets? That's possible -- there are still discussions going on about end of the year sets. 4-Are the discs they used to keep Rahi away the same that they used on Metru-Nui? Or are they replicas built from memory? I do not believe they are the same ones as were used on Mata Nui. The Metru Nui disks are way more powerful. 5- The Toa Metru had/have new masks that we haven't seen yet, right? So what happend to them or made them change into the Noble Masks? Were they Great Masks before and then downgraded to Noble? You will have to wait to learn that answer. And finally... 6- It was said the Bahrag had psychic powers... What does this mean? Well, you know that the Bahrag were telepathic, since they were in touch with the Bohrok and Bohrok Va .. you also know they were able to mentally project illusions. Domo Arigato, Mister Greg. See answers above.

QUOTE

Hi, I've got  a few more questions.  Please answer if you can. 1. In the MoL movie, it calls the rahkshi Makuta's sons.  Would it be correct to call the toa, turaga or matoran Mata Nui's sons? In a figurative sense, yes. 2. Can another toa use a given toa's weapons/ power?  Lewa seemed to use Tahu' sword to try to heal him.  Was he just focusing Tahu's energy?  And could an enemy do the same? That's a good question. I actually have an email out to the screenwriter about that. Thing to keep in mind, though, is that the power is not in the tool -- it's in the Toa. 3. What about enemies' weapons.  I think you've said the toa could use the Bohrok's shields, but what about the Rahkshi's staffs? Same answer as above. The staffs don't contain the power, the Rahkshi do. 4. The toa, turaga, and matoran are biomechanical.  Could their organic self live without their mechanical parts? Probably not for long. They would have no mobility for one thing. 5. In what part of them is the organic part?  The toa built themselves when they first arrived, and the matoran rebuilt themselves larger. Well, one part of them that is organic is the lung tissue that is visible in the movie. 6. It seems from the movie and the toas' first arrival that their "self" is within their mask. (The toa didn't change color until they put on their masks, Jaller and Takanuva were regenerated from their masks, Makuta said "That mask needs life etc.)  Is this right? The mask certainly has something to do with it, yes. 7. In the directors' commentary, Dave Molina and Terry Shakespeare said something about the organic lifeforms of Mata Nui are gradually becoming mechanical.  Do you know anything about this?  And Why? No. I take that commentary with a grain of salt. That is not something I have ever heard from anyone in the story team. 8. You've said the matoran play a new version of Kolhii on Metru Nui.  Would the 6 new matoran be a player from each element, and is the new version played with only one player per element? I am sure the new Matoran have played it, yes, but it is not purely a one player to a side game anymore than current kolhii is. 9. Will the new matoran contain any masks or body pieces in colors they haven't been produced in before? No idea, haven't seen the sets, just pics of them. 10. Will Onepu, Taipu, Kongu, and Tamaru ever be released as sets to finish up the 2003 Kolhii teams?  And will we see any more matoran sets besides these next 6? No idea. 11. Will there be another collectible in 2003 besides the Kanoka, perhaps the Krekka? No, Krekka is a character, not a collectable. 12. Will the next storylines all be set in the past, or will we see some continuing storylines as well? Can't answer it. 13. What is the light source of Metru Nui?  Is it some sort of underground atmospheric phenomenon that glows, as in Journey to the Center of the Earth?  Or is it Takanuva sitting on top of a platform with his Avohkii  ? No, there is a hole in the "sky" of Metru Nui that allows light to come in from outside. Thanks again for your answers, DM2050

QUOTE

1. Are the Kranoka the new collectibles? Some people swear by it, but I have my doubts. It's Kanoka, and yes. 2. Is the person on the '04 teaser Toa Vakama? Reason stated above. Yes. 3. How many of the sets shown will be in the '04 movie? Most of them. 4. How many Shadow Kraata are there in the Bionicle Universe? Not a ton. Shadow kraata are rare. 5. Are the "-rakh" sets the new enemies? ---- They are among the new enemies. But not the only new enemies.

latest Q&A from Greg.

And the last question out to give us an idea on how many enemies there are... Question 2 might also help a bit.

QUOTE

1.)  The Shadow Kraata comes in 6 stages.  Will there EVER be a new design for an actual 7th stage, or am I fooling myself by waiting until December? All shadow kraata are seventh stage. There is no new design, they are identified as shadow kraata by their coloring. 2.)  Will the new Matoran be out in December (basing this assumption on what a preorder on Toywiz says)? I have heard rumors to that effect. 3.)  Will we see the Toa Metru in one last shot as a teaser for the end of November, or will we have to wait until January? No, they don't appear in the November comic. 4.)  When you say the Kanoka (I think that's what they are) have a "real world use," is that a similar concept to having the LEGO Hockey sets packaged in canisters that double as water bottles you can actually use? Um, sorta, but not quite. The Kanoka will be able to help you gain access to behind the scenes BIONICLE info. 5.)  In the movie, what was with those double-edge, pop-out blades everyone had (I saw them with both Ta-Korans and Onu-Korans)?  What happened to those cool pitchfork-like staves the Ta-Koro guard had?  I remember in the update online concluding the Kal, the newly-built guards in Ta-Koro still had their staves. No idea. Wasn't that heavily involved in the movie. 6.)  With Graalok, Jaller said something about finishing what he started, and he took out his knife mentioned above.  Was he intending on cutting her down or killing her?  I just can't see a Matoran willing to kill a wild Rahi. I believe he was planning to off her, yes, although that would never have been stated implicitly. But it makes logical sense, if he saw it as a threat. 7.)  Is the Chronicler's staff part of the story now?  (It was in MNOLG2.)  If so, what part does it play?  To carve things on the Wall of History? Basically, yes that is what it does. 8.)  Setting Destiny and all aside, if Takua didn't have the Kohlii stick when he transformed, would he have been unarmed as Takanuva? Yes, he probably would have been. 9.)  When Kopaka zoomed with his Akaku in the movie, along the edges were "PC TARAKAVA," "PC NUI RAMA," (I think) and "PC USSAL CRAB."  Are these codes for something online? I think they are codes for the software game. 10.)  Any chance we'll ever get to see a Ga-Koran boat as a set? We are talking about doing vehicles in future, not sure which ones. 11.)  In the movie, Gali levetated when she meditated (no rhyme intended).  Was she really using her Miru, but without showing it so less-informed viewers weren't left in the dark? Not sure. 12.)  At the end of the movie, did all of the Toa use their Haus at the same time, thus able to deflect the power of three Rahkshi in one blast? No, it's not necessary. They could all share in the power of Tahu's. Their willpower was sufficient to make it stronger. 13.)  Okay, so now would it be safe to say that Tahu's cooled down a deal, Gali isn't mad at him, and the Toa are pretty much united? Yes. 14.)  At the healing, how was Lewa able to use Tahu's sword to generate fire energy? That's a good question, which I am waitingf or an answer from the head of the story team on.

Find it interesting that Jaller would have actually killed something. But now we know what the Chronicler's Staff is, and that there's a small chance we'll get an official boat.

Oh! I have one!

QUOTE

QUOTE  Did Nuju still talk in "whistlespeak" when he was a Toa Metru? If so, who translated for him? No, he didn't. It wasn't until some time after he became a Toa that he began doing that. We should be explaining why in the next couple years. Greg

So this means that Nuju can speak, he just chooses not to! Hmm...

I have more answers from GregF

Hi greg i have some questions for you


1. Do you have any info about the Shadow Toa othe than that they are duplicates of the older versions of the Toa ?

Well, they are dark and evil duplicates, does that help? They are also in one of the Scholastic novels from '03, I think the first one.

2. I´ve bought Kurahk today and since i got a level three
which says, it can magnify mild grudges into furious feuds. Can you explain what it means ?

Well, let's say someone bumps into you in the hall and it annoys you -- but not enough to make a big deal out of. That Rahkshi could make it so that you want to get into a fistfight with the guy.

3.What does the Chroniclers Staff really do ?
It's what Takua uses to write on the Wall of History.

4.Can you tell me anything about what metru nui looks like ?
It's a big city.

5. What power does Takutanuva actually have since i have no idea of what happens if Light and Darkness fuse together.
He has both powers.

6th and final question: Who is your favorite Rahkshi ?
Probably Lerahk.

QUOTE
Is there some significance to why Nuurakh and Nuhrii`s names are so similar?

Does this mean that when they betray the island, they get new forms?

Are the six matoran 2004 sets the same matoran as the ones with the same names in the MNOLG2?

Will we learn how and why everyone except the turaga`s memories were erased?


1) No, no connection.

2) No.

3) Don't know, possibly.

4) I can answer that right now. In MNOLG1, it is stated that Makuta "weakened the powers of the Matoran" after they came to Mata Nui. That is how they wound up looking like the McDonald's toys. At the same time, he also gave them amnesia about Metru Nui, because he did not want them ever returning there.

QUOTE


4) I can answer that right now. In MNOLG1, it is stated that Makuta "weakened the powers of the Matoran" after they came to Mata Nui. That is how they wound up looking like the McDonald's toys. At the same time, he also gave them amnesia about Metru Nui, because he did not want them ever returning there.

Greg


But, then why didn`t he erase the turaga`s memories?


Will we learn why makuta did not want them to have these memories in 2004?

Were makuta and mata nui once on the same side?

If Metru nui was created first, how did it get beneath mata-nui?




1) The Turaga had been Toa and had mastered Great Masks in the past ... their will was too strong for Makuta to affect that way.

2) I can tell you now -- the Matoran had to get back to Metru Nui to wake up Mata Nui, and Makuta doesn't want them doing that.

3) Don't know.

4) Welllll .. look at it this way ... if you think of Metru Nui as a planet, and Mata Nui as outer space, since it is above it ... you colonize your planet before you go out into space, right?



MATA NUI IS A SPACE COLONY!!!

1. Is Ahkmou the Comet Ball Trader? The names are identical in MNOLG2, they both have the same mask, and Ahkmou before has devious intentions of revenge. So... is he?

Can't answer it.

2. Is there some kind of power that the Kanoka discs have? I mean, in the description it says they are powerful discs for defense and sport, so exactly what kind of plan would these Matoran have in store for Metru Nui with a Kanoka Disc... I mean, they don't have special power, do they? (Crickets Start Chirping)

All Kanoka disks have some level of power, but average disks are not the ones that pose a potential threat to the city.

3. As the Matoran go to Metru Nui, does their memory come back as they see places? Does the cities spur their memory?

It might, but we won't be seeing them go back for a while.

4. What exactly have the Matoran on Metru NUi been doing while the Matoran of Mata Nui were up there battling evil?

Can't answer it.

5. When is the Mask of Light.com going to recieve an update? I'm anxious to learn more about this "Artakha."

Don't know, I don't work on that.

6. You probably can't answer this, but is Nuhrii the famed "Mask Maker" that is supposed to have a role in 2004's epic movie?

No, he's not.

7. Will the 2004 movie be about the past and six Matoran's plans, or will it be about the actual Toa as they battle new evil?

It's about the Toa.

8. Has Makuta arrived at the -beginning- of 2004 yet? Because It'd be sweet to see how Mata Nui and Makuta duke it out. Or does he never arrive on Metru Nui and only arrive after Mata Nui gets to, well, Mata Nui?

Can't answer it.

9. Will we be able to see Mata Nui next year? Because, he has to bring the other Matoran to Mata Nui, right?

Nope. You are taking things the Turaga say literally again...

10. Do the villages, while the current Turaga are Toa, have other Turaga, like this Dume dude?

There are no villages on Metru Nui, just districts. It's one big city. And there is only one Turaga, same way there is only one mayor in NYC.

QUOTE

Hello Greg, Ok, so I noramlly try just to write you once a noth, so not to bother you, but I've watched MOL again, and I have a few questions. 1)  In the beginning we see the Ajama circle, and the rocks being expelled from the Mata-Nui rock.  Is that just a movie representation, or is it actually how the Turaga show it?  If so, how do they do that? Think that was just a movie representation. 2)  How strong ARE the matoran, exactly?  It show Takua pick up a rock that's about 1/3 as bigh as he is, and it barely seems to bother him. Well, they are pretty strong for such little guys, especially since the rebuild. We haven't quantified it, but I would guess a Matoran would be stronger than an average human. 3)  Takua touches the Lava, just a little bit, but you clearly hear it sizzle.  He doesn't seem affected.  However, the next second, he picks up the MOL, and he juggles it, as it burns his hand.  It wasn't in the lava very long, granted that the lava is hot, but still, it shouldn't be lava heat.. ermm.. anyways, to the question, was this just a mistake, or do the Ta-Koroans have a resistance to lava, but not to heat?  (ok, so that soudns stupid.  ><) They have a limited resistance to heat. And the mask doesn't need to be in the lava for long to be blazingly hot. 4)  They just descend to the bottom level of a ramp... yet Takua says that no one has recorded that.  Wouldn't it be easy for someone to just hop across the lava, and look at it? The area is forbidden. That's why Jaller was upset with Takua being there. 5)  The Turaga have glowing stones on their staff/tools.  Well, most of them, I don't see a glow on Onewa's, but is there any specific reason for those stones to be there? I would assume they are lightstones. 6)  Is that BODY ARMOR they're wearing (They forwards) at the Koli match?  If so, why doesn't Takua seem to have any on? Not that I know of. 7)  The Koli match shows the Matoran are very argile (bouncing off walls).  Would they have been able to do that in the old form?  (I'm guessing not). Probably not as easily, no. 8)  Wouldn't they notice that the mask shines whenever it touches Takua, or gets near him? No, who was there to notice? Takua made sure it shone on Jaller, and the two were always together. And Jaller did know that it was meant to be Takua's, but Takua wouldn't accept it. 9)  When Nokama is translating the mask, it soudns like she says, "Makuta, Takutanuva (it woulds like that)"  That's.. odd..  Forshadowing? Maybe. 10)  We see Jaller with a kind of knife...  I thought TLC didn't like violence... but what else is a knife/sword for (ok, so you can cut cheese with a knife..  )? My guess would be for carving/shaping cooling protodermis .. also for cutting through plant life. Bladed tools can be used for all sorts of things besides violence. 11)  Any particular reason Pahnrahk drives his staff into the ground?  Is that just to look cool, or does it provide him with power? I think he was just trying to look impressive. 12)  I don't know if you can answer this, but was the MOS "possessing" Makuta, or is he acting on his own free will?  (He DOES say, "My duty is to the Mask of Shadows") As far as I am aware -- and I do have some background on Makuta you guys don't -- everything he has done has been of his own volition. He is not being controlled. 13)  Are suva's seen as temples?  Becacuse that looked like a Suva that the rahkshi blew to pieces. They are shrines, yes. 14)  I'm guessing that the Kraata in the movie are level 6, am I right? For a mission this important, I would think so, yes. 15)  I just noticed, the Kraata's spines glow when they use their powers.  Is the Kraata producing the power, and channling it through the staffs of the Rahkshi, or are the Kraata using a power that's in the armor already? The power comes from the kraata, but its union with the armor is what makes it possible for it to tap that power. 16)  Is that metal on the Gokku bird natural, or a "combat skin"? I believe it's natural. 17)  (Ok, so this isn't MOL related.  ) It's pretty obvious destiny can be SOMEWHAT changed.  So, now, what will happen with the Bohrok?  Several of the Bohrok are obviously aroudn (flash frozen Korahk) ,but they aren't going to run aroudn any more.  So, who's going to cleanse the island? Good question. Only way the Bohrok can clean the island is if the Bahrag are freed. If they are not freed, then the island ain't getting cleaned 18)  Why WERE the Bohrok supposed to cleanse the island? Can't reveal that yet. 19)  I'll have to wrap this up, due to my going to bed (lucky you.  )but I was wondering, what kind of book is your favorite? (I.E. Sci Fi, Fantasy....) Um, I read a lot history, actually, and mysteries. I also have a huge comic book collection, about 28 long boxes worth. 20)  HAve you ever heard of the Wheel of Time series?  If so, do you like it?  It's my favorite book series.  Don't think I have heard of it. Tahufrozen P.S.  They call him Onua the wise... shouldn't he be smart enough than to collapes Onu-Koro?  Hey, heat of the moment See answers above.

Hehehehe...

CM, that was hardly as long as your other ones... (I'm always interested to read the questions you ask. )

QUOTE
No I mean why were a Po-matoran and a Ko-matoran in Le-wahi?


Because those were the ones that the shadow kraata had infected and they were doing its bidding. They were creating a trap for the Toa. Since the encounter with the Bohrok, Le-Matoran are a little harder to ambush and infect, because they are much more watchful and stay high in the trees.

Greg

--------------------

QUOTE

1)  Is Ahkmou the Comet Ball Traitor?  There is a character in the MNOLG 2 that is named Ahkmou and looks EXACTLY like the CBT. Can't answer it. 2)  Is there any significance to the 2004 Matoran all having Noble Masks? Not that I know of. 3)  Could the Matoran use mask abilities when they were still in Metru Nui? No. 4)  Nuhrii is described as "A mask maker".  Does this mean there are more than one? 4b)  How many are there? Can't answer it, except to say he is NOT the one referred to by the movie title. 5)  In the 2004 storyline, do the residents of Metru Nui have any knowledge at all of Mata Nui? (the character). The character? Oh, yes, of course. 6)  Is Makuta the only character to use Rahkshi? Ummmmmmm ... can't answer it. 7)  What kind of information can be found with the disk codes? You will have to wait and find out. 8)  I heard you say that Kongu will be in the 2004 storyline.  Will he have a miru, or had those not yet been made? No idea. He is in the storyline and he will be pictured in part of it, but I have no idea what mask he has at the time. Have not seen his depiction yet. 9)  Do each of the Toa Metru have 6 masks? No. They have one apiece. 10)  Were the Toa Metru sent from Paradise like the Toa or were they once Matoran? Wait and see. 11)  Does Turaga Dume have a deep story behind him? He might, but I don't know it. 12)  About how long did the Metru Matoran live on Metru Nui before they moved to Mata Nui? Long time. Long, long, long time. 13)  I get the impression that the Metru Nuians fled from something.  Is that something still on Metru Nui as of Makuta's defeat? That's a way down the line question, I can't answer it. 14)  You have said that the Toa are more united now.  That kinda seems to destroy some of Kopaka's character.  Will he still be going off on his own every once in a while? Yes, he will, but the 2003 Toa are not the focus of the 2004 story. 15)  Who is your favorite Toa Metru, character-wise? Strangely enough, considering my favorite Toa is Kopaka, my favorite Toa Metru is Onewa. He's got a lot of attitude and something of a chip on his shoulder, which makes him fun to write. He's not whiney at all -- he's just a very strong personality, not really what I would consider reckless but an adventurer at heart. He's fun. 16)  Are the personalities of the Toa Metru kinda like the personalities of the Toa? Ummmm .. you would expect them to be, but in some important ways they are not. The Toa came onto the island as heroes -- everyone revered them before they had even done anything. The Toa Metru don't have that luxury -- they have to learn to be heroes and win the acceptance of others. So, for example -- Nokama is wise like Gali, but not as gentle or diplomatic -- she talks when she should listen and can be really bossy at times.

I'm liking this.

Here's something I asked GregF:

On the back of the latest comic it shows a large shadowed figure standing. Is that Toa Vakama? And he looks a little bigger then the original Toa's height. How tall is he?


Yes, it is Vakama. I don't know what the comparison is to the original Toa sets, I don't have the '04 sets.

Greg

Okay, new set of questions:

QUOTE

Hi Greg. Okay, only a few quick questions this time: Several members have bought the "Tales of the Masks" book, but you said it would be out next month. You guys running ahead of schedule? If it's out, it's news to me. That's Scholastic's end of things, not LEGO's. Will we see any of the current Matoran (Kongu, Takua, Hafu, etc.) in the past on Metru Nui next year? Yes. You said there are Rahkshi on Metru Nui. Will we get to see the Toa Nuva and Takua...er, Takanuva...fighting and capturing them? No. The Toa Nuva don't get to Metru Nui next year. You will see the Toa Metru fighting them. You said you have background information on Makuta that we don't. Will we (as in the public) ever get to see this information for ourselves? Someday, yes. Thanks in advance, Greg!

-Master of the Rahkshi

Hi Greg, I've got a few questions, hope you don't mind.

1.Are the Toa Metru really so buff as they seem in the silhouet on comic 15?
Gonna have to wait and see.

2. Are all of the Toa Metru built the same a bit, you know same torso different mask/colors?
Pretty much, that is what we usually do.

3. Will there, after the big flashback, be 2003 matoran again?
Eventually, we will get back to the story of the current Matoran returning to Metru Nui.

4. Do you know if the 2004 matorans have a back torso? or are they empty on the back?
No idea, haven't seen the sets.

5. Will the new evil be intelligent (Kal) or beasts (Rahi)?
Pretty much all the bad guys are intelligent.

6. Are the Toa Metru stronger then the Toa or Toa Nuva?
No.

7. If turaga Dume is like the mayor of Metru Nui. What's the guy that he comes with?
Can't answer it.

8.Can you share the name of Toa Vakama's Kanohi? (PLEEEEAAASE?)
Nope.

9. Do you like the Matrix movies?
Not really. I saw the first one, and while I thought the idea behind it was good, I thought it was really pretentious. So I didn't see the other two.

10. Let me get this staight, the matoran lifeline. 1.2004 matoran 2.2003 Matoran 3. 1999 McToran 4. 2003 Matoran. Is this correct?
No. It's 1. 2004 Matoran 2. McD Matoran 3. 2003 Matoran

11. Do the Toa Metru have elbows and knees?
I don't know.

12. How tall are the Toa Metru? Are they like the Toa, the Rahkshi, Makuta?
Again, haven't seen the sets, just pics.

13. Do you have a 2004 set of yourself?
Um, no.

Thanks in advance Greg!

-NKO

Okay, he said we have to find out in January why the Toa Metru use Kanoka and disk lauchers as weapons. So my theory is correct, that crossbow thing is a disk launcher.

QUOTE

QUOTE 1: Do all the Matoran Metru wear Noble masks? 2: Can the Matoran Metru activate their masks? No idea. 3: Why did the Turaga get the masks that their people once wore? Can't answer it. 4: Are the Kanohi Metru great masks of Power? Or Metru masks of Power? No, it is still Great Masks, Noble Masks, etc. 5: Did the masks that the Toa Olda wear, were they ever worn by anyone on Metru Nui? I mean less powerful ones, or did everyone wear masks with powers? No, Matoran masks do not have powers. But yes, those mask shapes were worn by some characters in the BIONICLE universe before the Olda. 6: Is there any significance with the Half colored Half protodermic colorations of the Matoran Metru masks? Probably, but not one I am aware of. 7: Okay, did every Matoran make masks? Or did only those six powerful ones do it? Those six are not mask makers. And no, every Matoran does not make masks. 8: Did the Matoran just go around making Masks of Power and using them? Again, no. 9: Do you have a list on the Toa Metru mask powers? Yes, but I can't release it yet. 10: Do the Toa Metru have elemental powers? Yes. 11: What is the significance of the Metru Disk? I like them, but howcome even the Toa Metru use them? PS: Toa Vakama's disk laucher looks like the bomb! It is shaped like a crossbow with Fire at the ends! Again, you will find out in January. See answers above.

Here's something I asked GregF:

Can u give us any info on the Toa Metru's personalities? I read what u said about Nokama and Onewa, but what about the others?

No, not really, I probably shouldn't go into depth on that yet.

1. Are the discs the Matoran used on Mata Nui for sport and defense also Kanoka Discs?

Yes.

2. Um, I was wondering if you could tell me a bit about Vakama, personalitywise, like maybe three things. He's my personal favorite Turaga, and I was wondering if he was bossy, funny(hard to think of a funny Toa as that old geezer now) or fun. Could you tell me without giving away too much?

Well, I can talk a little about Vakama early on in the story next year (pre-movie). He is brave, and he does have the qualities of a leader (certainly Nokama believes that). But he is not entirely comfortable with a leader's role and all that responsibility, and sometimes he lets himself get pushed aside by more aggressive personalities like Onewa. But when he is angered, pretty much nothing can stop him ... he is also a very good strategist (he and Onewa are probably the best at that, with Matau a close second). Like the other characters, Vakama's personality will grow and change in the movie and as the story goes along.


3. Is Vakama, the red dude, acting commander of the Toa Metru like Tahu is to the Toa Nuva?

Not a first, no, although he does take the lead in their first major adventure.

4. Do the Toa Metru come in canisters or come from Matoran? Or something else?

Can't answer it right now.

5. So... I still don't get why the Turaga are so slow to trust the Toa. I mean, this just seems like somthing more. They've been Toa themselves, they should trust others. Are they jealous or something?

No, it's not jealousy. It has to do with having had their trust betrayed in the past. The Turaga put a great deal of emphasis on the fact that just being able to trust means nothing -- it's trusting WISELY that counts, and they are not quick to do that.


6. Are there Kanoka makers like they're are mask-makers?

Ummmmm .. I would say more Kanoka "shapers."

7. What characters will we see that have already been introduced into the storyline? I recall Kongu being one of them, but anyone else?

Kongu will make a reappearance .. Nuparu will, in one of the Scholastic books .. I think Kopeke does ... and I am sure others will too, some in the movie, some in the books.

8. Do the people of Le-Metru speak in treespeak like the Le-Matoran of Mata Nui do?

Yes.

9. Is Nidawk a Rahi? Or is he like the Turaga's adviser?

Can't answer it.


10. Okay... so if this Dume guy is like the Mayor of all of the cities, what color is he? Is he tie-dye, or just grey, or rainbow?

Oh, I have no idea -- have not seen the set.




-CM

# 4 and 6 on the toa questions are pretty interesting, if you want to take a look

QUOTE
Hi greg, I hope you can answer most of these since they're mostly about the rahi

1) Is a rahi combiner when two rahi actually combine, or is it like the crabs, when they just grow bigger, and if that's true, how come muaka and kane ra grow into the same thing?

A combiner is just that -- it's two models combined. It doesn't necessarily mean that the two Rahi merged. It may simply be a different species.

2) When the toa kaita fought the manas, they destroyed 4 of them, that were controlled by the towers. Are there more of those towers, since I heard that the manas are coming back?

The manas are back in Tales of the Masks.

3) Do you know how you guys did selling the manas? They were the coolest sets, but I haven't seen any more electronic bionicle sets.

In general, the more expensive sets do not do as well as the $7.99 or $8.99 sets. So we are trying to only do sets up to about $30.00.

4) are the nui kopen like queens for the nui rama? And when a new one comes out does it go and build a new nest?

No idea.

Toa Questions

1) Is takanuva the new leader? If he is then what are tahu and kopaka going to fight about?

No, Takanuva has no interest in being leader of the Toa.

2) How did the exo suits hinder the elemental powers? Did they use them to power themselves? Then if they did, how did they work without the toa?

Basically, they blocked the use of them.

3) Do you know if the toa metru can fit into exo suits?

No, I don't.

4) I'm kinda confused, is toa a race, like humans to chimpanzees, or are they just a title? It was hard to tell after the mask of light movie

No, Toa are not a separate race. Toa are something a Matoran becomes if it is his destiny to do so. Toa are like .. great athletes, sort of.

5) Is takanuva's armor made of protodermis? and how hard would it be to cut into that stuff? They didn't have that much trouble ripping apart the rahkshi, and they were like pure protodermis.

Everything on Mata Nui (well, almost everything) is made of protodermis. However, there are different strength levels of protodermis, depending on how it was forged.

6)Since the 2004 storyline is taking place in the before time, I guess it predates makuta, but not the bohrok. Will they finally come back?

It doesn't necessarily predate Makuta either. And Bohrok will be seen in the storyline, but really won't play a big part.

7) How long would it take for someone with the kaukau nuva, sharing her powers with someone with the kakama nuva go get to metru nui?

No idea. But considering how dangerous the ocean is, I am not sure you want to go swimming in it.

8) Where did the turaga get the copper masks? And did Tahu ever win one for lava boarding?

Copper masks are for Matoran, not Toa. And they got them from the same place they got all the other masks -- Metru Nui.

9) Will the matoran bring all their possessions with them, or will they assume that since they're going home, they should just leave it all and let someone else fix/clean the island?


I am sure they will bring their tools and the things they feel they will need, since they are not planning to go back again. And Pewku and some of the other tamed Rahi will come along too, I am sure,

See answers above.
Greg

QUOTE

QUOTE QUOTE 1.)  The Shadow Kraata comes in 6 stages.  Will there EVER be a new design for an actual 7th stage, or am I fooling myself by waiting until December? All shadow kraata are seventh stage. There is no new design, they are identified as shadow kraata by their coloring. Does this mean that between a SK with a Stage 1 design and a SK with a Stage 6 design are both Level 7, and of equal power and ability? Yes. All SK are level 7.

Looks like it won't be necessary for storyline completion to obsess over getting a Level 6 SK.

OK, I just asked Greg this question. Here is the PM:

QUOTE

QUOTE Hey GregF, there has been a lot of speculation as to what Toa Vakama's weapon is. I was wondering if you could tell us anything, or is it confidential? It would be really cool to find out, even if I couldn't tell anyone else.                                                                                      -Compka Vakama has a disk launcher -- however, while disk launchers can fit on the other Toa Metru models and be used by them as well, the other Toa Metru come with different tools. Greg

Pretty cool, huh? So Toa Vakama does have a disk launcher, but the others have different weapons. I can't wait for 2004, because the new Toa must be really cool, according to what Greg said.
-Compka

I have sokme new info! (I bet someone already posted this.)


Zonarc: I was just wondering if we will ever see the Turaga Nui. I would also like to know if the Bohrok/Kal Kaita will ever be seen. Thanks!!!


Greg: The Bohrok Kal Kaita were in one of the comics. I doubt you will see Bohrok Kaita or Turaga Nui anytime soon, because the story is shifting to Metru Nui in the time before time.

Greg


I knew one Kal Kaita was in it I was wondering about the other one.

QUOTE
Hey Greg, I was hoping you could please take some time and answer these questions.


1. Can you tell me anything about toa Nuju, personality-wise, and other details if you can?

Nuju tends to be very focused on the future .. he is concerned with consequences of his actions. Like Kopaka, he tends not to be all that friendly, but he is extremely resourceful. He probably has the most difficulty getting along with Whenua.

2. Can you tell me any of the toa metru’s mask powers?

Not yet, no. The mask powers will be detailed early in the year, but they really don't come into play in the storyline until later on.

3. Are toa Onewa’s weapons on a chain, stiff chain, or something else, because that is what it looks like in the pictures from the toyfare magazine?

I see them as being on a chain, yes. They are like pitons on a chain.

4. Do the toa metru come with kanoka disks?

Only Vakama does.

5. Can you tell me what the toa metru’s weapons are?

That will be released in Jan. too.

6. Will toa Nuju have a shield, like kopaka/nuva?

No.

7. How do the matoran versions of the toa metru (it said they were matoran in the toyfare mag) turn into the toa metru?

That you will have to wait to find out.

8. Is the new/old version of kohlii played with kanoka disks? If not, what is it played with?

Yes, it is.

9. Are there only 6 different types of stickers on the kanoka disks?

Stickers?

Thanks for your time Greg!


See answers above.



I meant the stickers on the disk to show the different types, I will try to rephrase the question and I will post it later.

QUOTE

Hey Greg 1.) I'm confused on the Shadow Kraata. Ok, I know a SK is purple. But I don't get the shape. Stage 1 Kraata have one shape. The change shape as the go to Stage 2. The change shape as they go to Stage 3 and so on. So when the go to Stage 7 they stay the same or revert back to a previous shape? Meesa don't get it. All SK are purple -- the different shapes are not really relevant. They were made in those shapes because LEGO used existing molds to make them. 2.)I realize that you can't stay on the same focus for the entire Bionicle story, HOWEVER!  In the beginning, SO MUCH was centered around the masks, the Toa combining their mask powers to save the day and all that. But now, even though they have all of their Kanohi Nuva, the other masks they have are just kinda....there. Nothing special. Why isn't there more ficus on the masks that they have? Because if we put the same focus on the masks again, we would just be telling the 2001 story again. There was a lot of focus on the masks the first year because initially that was the product we had out -- Toa, Turaga and masks. The only bad guy sets were the Rahi, who came out late in the year. In 2003, the major sets were the Kal and the Rahkshi and the movie toys, so why focus the story on the search for the masks? 3.) Can you tell us when the huge flash-back will end (2004, pre MOL) and we'll come back to the here-and-now? (post MOL) I can't, because I don't know. 4.) Will the 2004 movie take place in the pre-MOL story/flash-back? Can't answer it. 5.) Is cleaning the island the only purpose of the Bohrok? I mean, the few that were released were doing good enough, and yet you say there were tons in reserve; they don't really seem needed. Yes, as far as we know that is their purpose. 6.) While on Mata Nui, do the Matoran refer to their disks (like the McToran came with) as Kanoka, or do they call them something else because they forgot? They never referred to them as anything but disks. 7.) Wouldn't a big hole in Mata Nui be really really visable? (I'm refering to the one that lights Metru Nui) There is a big hole in Mata Nui -- the opening of the volcano. 7b.) This isn't really a queston, but... Ok, you ever read the Centerpoint Crisis Trilogy from Star Wars? Inside Centerpoint Station, Hollowtown was lighted by the "Glowpoint," a point in the center or the shperical town that acted as a sun. Unless the hole that lets light into Metru Nui plays an important role, I think a sort of "Glowpoint" might have been more realistic, don't you?  (I mean, not REALISTIC, but more believable than I giant hole in the roof/floor, at least in a sci-fi story thingy.) Then again, I don't know what I'm talking about, the hole is probably important somehow. No, I don't read Star Wars fiction. 8.) Do all Metru Matoran have a super fancy disk launcher like that? Yes. 9.) Let's pretend the word long" is a unit of time.  If the Matoran were on Metru Nui first for a long long long long time, how would hat compair to their being on Mata Nui? They have not been on Mata Nui for as long as they were on Metru Nui. Thanks Greg!

[SIZE=7][COLOR=blue]Hmm, I know Greg doesn't have the time to spend hours on each question, but I feel like the quality of his answers is slipping. (I'm not talking about the ones he's not allowed to answer either.)

QUOTE
Can you tell use the names of the Toa Metrus' weapons (ie Quake Breakers)? If yes what are they?


No, that will all be revealed in Jan.

Greg

Oh man. (jk)

QUOTE]
9. Are there only 6 different types of stickers on the kanoka disks?

Stickers?



See answers above.[/QUOTE]






I meant the different prints on the disk (they were stickers I think on the throw bot disks, but they may not be on the 04 matoran). Ex. there is the red, blue, the ice one that is white and light blue, with icicle like shapes on it, black green with vine-like shapes, and brown.

Oh, I see what you mean. I don't think they are stickers, though. But yes, only six designs because they are made in the six metru of Metru Nui.

Greg

QUOTE

7.) Wouldn't a big hole in Mata Nui be really really visable? (I'm refering to the one that lights Metru Nui) There is a big hole in Mata Nui -- the opening of the volcano.

Thats neat! I thought Takanuva lit it up! But I have one problem! In the second comic lava comes from the volcano! If its a big hole, how does lava come from it?

Don't question the comics!

QUOTE

Hello Greg, Geesh, the more I see about the 2004 stuff, the more I want to know, but I'll stick with questions I guess you MIGHT be able to answer. 1)  Can you give us the mask powers for 2004?  Or are they pretty much the same as the original Toa? No, they are not at all the same as the original Toa. But I'm not authorized to talk about them yet. I can tell you that, while the Toa will have them from day one, they really won't play a big part in the story until later in the year. 2)  Those sets look awesome.  If I'm right, they have elbows, AND knees, along with the normal articulation...  Is that right? I do know that they have more articulation than anything we have done to date, but specifics I do not have. 3)  Question about the comics, kinda, in 2004.  Is Turaga Vakama just going to tell the Toa right where they are (the beach on Mata-Nui) about all of 2004, or will they reach the island, and have it told bit by bit, as theey discover things? Some of it will be shared on the island, and some will be shared as they make the sea voyage to Metru Nui. 4)  When the Matoran became Toa, how did it happen?  Was it protodermis, masks like Takua, or just waking up and finding you were a Toa? None of the above, but I can't share the secret of how at this point. They will be Toa at the beginning of '04, and you will get a pretty big clue in January as to how it happened, but you won't actually SEE it happen until the movie. 6)  Life sounded great on Metru-Nui, but obviously SOMETHING drove them out, and so, now, they're headed back, but what if that something is still there?  Are they hoping with 6 Toa Nuva, and 1 Toa evolved, that they can beat it? That is certainly their hope. Metru Nui will not be a fun place when the Toa Nuva get back to it, and there will probably be challenges there that even the Turaga are not prepared for. 7)  In comparison to the Nuva, how strong were the Toa Metru? I would say they are as powerful as the original Toa. They did not have Nuva masks that could share powers, etc. Also keep in mind that the Toa pretty much knew how to use their powers the second they came to Mata Nui - the Toa Metru have to learn on the job. 8)  What is this "plant plague"?  Is it exactly that, a biological life form? Or is it mechanical? Actually, the Morbuzakh is the closest to purely biological as we have had in BIONICLE. But it's not just a plant  It's not even just nature gone amok  It's ... very ambitious, for one thing. 9)  Can you tell us the Toa Metru's tools?  Onewa (ermm.. think that's the right one) looked like he had gigantic hammers, or maybe maces, on his hands, and Matatua looked like he had Katana, like Lewa.  And Vakama's looks like a disc launcher, or a crossbow. I can tell you that Vakama's is a disk launcher. I am holding off discussing the others for now. 10)  What is a "Great Kanoka disc"?  Is it something akin to a  powerful source of energy? Hmmmmm .. well .. it is something that a great deal of energy is invested in, yes. It is also extremely rare. 11)  I noticed that the 6 matoran on the pages in the comics all would like vengence, and they aren't the ones that turn into Toa...  Are these just to boost sales, give us cool new sets, or will they actually have a purpose in the storyline? They play a very significant role in the storyline in the first half of the year. The first three issues of the comic and the first two Scholastic novels have a lot to do with them. 12)  Ok, been meaning to ask you this for a while, what parts of the Matoran/Turaga/Toa are biological?  I see the muscles, but that's about it.  This pretty much implies that they are far more mechanical than biological, right? Yes, I would say they are more mechanical than biological. But you might also take note that the Toa in the movie have lung tissue as well as musculature. 13)  Makuta seemed to choose the most surgical of the Rahkshi, but wouldn't there have been some other ones that would have been better? Well, those are the six the story team decided on when the Rahkshi were being planned  All those other powers were conceived by me after the Rahkshi had been released. 14)  Is this a correct path of "evolution"?  Matoran > Toa > Turaga and another path of Matoran > Turaga and another one of Matoran > Toa (who skip the Matoran stage) > Toa Nuva. Are these paths correct, or all of these paths correct, or just one?  >< Matoran cannot go directly to being Turaga, no. An extremely small number of Matoran become Toa and then Turaga .. most Matoran just stay Matoran all their lives .. and we do not know for certain if it is possible for Toa to have NEVER been Matoran, though I hope that it is. That last one was from my brother... so that's why it's kinda, odd. -A See answers above. Greg

Hmm... I thought some were quite interesting... especially 8.

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Can you tell me a little about Whenua and Matau, as in how they act?

Why were the matoran who became toa unpreapred? You`d think for somethign as important as that they would have trained their troops better...or, was there a specific reasont aht only these matoran could become toa?


1) Matau is probably the most similar to himself as a Turaga. He LOVES being a Toa -- he's looking forward to all the fame and all the tales that will be written about him. He does some remarkable feats because he wants to make sure he lives up the image of a "Toa-hero."

Whenua was a researcher and an archivist. He is a lot more cautious than some of the other Toa, and he believes the answer to most things can be found in the past. He comes up with some pretty good plans, though, and he is not afraid to put himself in real danger to save the other Toa. That is one of the things I have noticed with these Toa Metru -- they may start out less skilled and less knowledgeable about how to be a Toa, but they are enormously brave. As I have been writing the novels, the characters have taken some incredible risks and in some cases been willing to sacrifice themselves so the others could survive.

Hey Greg, I have a few questions for you:

In the Toy Fare magazine it says this:

Don't expect it to be all fun and games in Metru-Nui, though. In this prequel, and evil plant plague-the Morbuzakh-disrupts the paradise, forcing six unprepared Matoran to assume the roles of Toa heroes.

Plants? Are plants really the new baddie?

In the early part of the year, the Morbuzakh is one of the enemies they have to face. But it is not the movie storyline enemy.

And it says "assume the roles". Does someone have the ability to grant them Toa powers? Possibly Turaga Dume if he was once a Toa?

Yes, but Dume has nothing to do with it.

Last one: How is Matau prononced?

Mah-tow (pronounced like "cow")

Thanx in advance!

Here's something else I asked him about the new villian:

How will Lego make plant sets? Have u seen them, do they look cool?


The Morbuzakh is only one of multiple villains next year, and is not the movie villain. We aren't doing a set for it, but I am trying to see if we can get some building instructions done for it.

I have new info!

Zonarc: I was just wondering if there will be a Taka Metru in Metru-Nui. Or does Takanuva just wonder around for a while? I would also like to know if we will ever come back to our heros: Tahu, Gali, Lewa, etc.


Thanks!


Takua lived on Metru Nui... Takanuva did not. He was never Takanuva until he turned into him in the movie.

Greg: Yes, we will eventually get back to the Toa Nuva and the current storyline.

Greg


Hope you can use it!

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1. We've seen pictures of three Toa Metru from the Toyfair magazine, and I'd like to know exactly how Onewa's (the set) tool works. It looks like a big hammer-mace, but can it actually swing, or does it have a stiff handle like most other Bionicle tools?

I believe it's stiff.

2. There are theories the Toa Metru were once Matoran, will we ever get to see them as Matoran?

Yes.

3. Were there other Turaga on Metru-Nui besides Dume?

Not at the point in time this story takes place.

4. The Toyfair article said that a plague known as the Morbuzakh disrupts Metru-Nui. Are Razzakh and Co. extensions of this plague, or related to it somehow? (I'm wondering about the endings)

No, they are not connected to the Morbuzakh.

5. Did all 6 of the 2OO4 Matoran come to Mata-Nui with the Turaga and everybody else?

I do not know that answer.

6. How long will the Metru-Nui "story" last? I'm guessing 2OO4 to 2OO6.

Can't answer it. A lot depends on the release date of the theatrical movie.

7. Will we see some form of Makuta, the Bahrag, or the Bohrok on Metru-Nui in 'O4 or 'O5?

You will see Bohrok, but that's pretty much it .. see them .. they will not really play any role in the story, as far as I know.

8. Do you know if we'll get more Lego Designer and Inventor sets next year?

I believe so, yes.

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I know, I just PMed you a little while ago, but those questions were rushed. I just have a few more questions to ask.

1) I heard that Toa Vakama has a disk launcher as a weapon. Does he use the same disks as the matoran use?

Yes.

2) I'm sort of confused. So, the Matoran in the comic 15 centerfold are the Matoran that turn into the Toa?

No, they're not. The way it works is -- today's Turaga started out as Matoran and became Toa Metru Their first mission was to find six missing Matoran, and that is who the Matoran in November's comic are.

3) Since you said that the Toa are really matoran that evolved into Toa because of their destiny, are the Toa that came to Mata Nui really Matoran that came from Metru Nui?

That I do not know. My own SUSPICION is that the Mata Nui Toa were never Matoran -- but that is NOT official at all, just my theory.


4) You said that the seas leading to Metru Nui were extremely dangerous. Is this becasue certain sea creatures had extremely long exposure to protodermis therefore makling them wildly strong, or is there another reason?

No, just because there are a lot of really nasty creatures in the sea, just like there is in ours.


5) Are the new enemy(ies) that come into the 2004 storyline a good match for Makuta and the Rahkshi?

That is something the fans will have to decide.

6) I'm not sure why, but I'm starting ot get a vibe from the new storyline that the Matoran, when on Metru Nui, are rather selfish and not as carring. Is this true?

Not in general, no. But I think we are taking a more realistic approach to them. On Mata Nui, every Matoran had to work together for simple survival. It's the difference between living in Manhattan and being on "Survivor." EVERY Matoran is not sweet and helpful or selfish and uncaring, anymore than every human is one thing or another.

7) Did the Matoran and one lonely Turaga on Metru Nui ever know of Makuta's existence?

Can't answer it.

8) Have the Matoran been any place else other than Metru Nui and Mata Nui?

The only two places that I personally know of are Metru Nui and Mata Nui.

9) Would it be safe to say that the Vahi is the most powerful mask that will ever be made?

"Will ever ..." I can't say that, I have no idea what is planned for the story beyond '05.


10) Are the disks that threaten the city of Metru Nui things that you can posses and use to increase your own power?

You can possess them, but they will not increase your individual power like masks do. They are enormously powerful though, which is part of the reason the Toa need to find them.

11) How many times larger than Mata Nui do you think Metru nui is?

Couldn't even begin to tell you.

12) Would it ever be possible for Bohrok to travel to Metru nui?

Ummmmm .. if they were awake, and if they could find a way down, yes. But the Bohrok who attacked Mata Nui have no programming relating to Metru Nui, so not much reason for them to go there.

13) Since we have just learned about Metru Nui and a whole new slew of complicated information is waiting ot be learned, will we ever learn about the underground of Mata Nui?

In terms of what? Metru Nui is the underground of Mata Nui. Basically, Makuta's lair is on roughly the same level as Metru Nui .. Bahrag lair is probably a bit higher up.

Thank You
*Buckonicle#1*
GO BUCKS!!


See answers above.



Just thought you'd like to know.

GO BUCKS!!

*Buckonicle#1*

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Dear Mr. Farshtey, First of all, I'd like to thank you for taking the time to help answer questions from members here on BZP.  I think I can speak for all of the members when I say that your being here to explain what all we've been thinking wrong and telling us a bit about what's to come in Bionicle is really a nice thing to do. Second, I would like to ask you a few questions regarding 2004 myself. #1: In comic #15's teaser for the new Matoran, the paragraph at the top left says "Six Matoran hold the keys to it's defeat, but they have disappeared!" Are those six Matoran not the six shown below the paragraph, but the  Toa Metru/Turaga, and no one believes that the Toa Metru once were truly those Matoran? No, the six Matoran shown on that spread are the ones who are missing. The  Toa Metru have to find them. #2: Are the Morbuzakh actually plants, and are they commanded by a central intelligence, or smart on their own? Do they wield Kanoka, or have some sort of rubbery collectibles inside their heads/backs? No, there is no collectible associated with the Morbuzakh. It is one of the villains for the early part of the year, but not the movie villain. And as you will see it is a very ambitious bit of greenery ... #3: Can you tell us anything about "Turaga Dume", such as what he/she looks like, what area of the city he/she resides in, etc.? No, not really. He becomes more a part of the story mid-year. #4: Do you have any new information on the Vahi being released in a set? No, although I have heard rumors about it, either as a set or as a promotional item. So I would think you will be seeing it again. Once again, thank you very much! Sincerely, Salus* See answers above.

I find it interesting that the Morbuzakh has no collectible, and is one villain, not six. I guess we won't be seeing Dume for a while, too..

Hey Greg,

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2.)I realize that you can't stay on the same focus for the entire Bionicle story, HOWEVER! In the beginning, SO MUCH was centered around the masks, the Toa combining their mask powers to save the day and all that. But now, even though they have all of their Kanohi Nuva, the other masks they have are just kinda....there. Nothing special. Why isn't there more ficus on the masks that they have?

Because if we put the same focus on the masks again, we would just be telling the 2001 story again. There was a lot of focus on the masks the first year because initially that was the product we had out -- Toa, Turaga and masks. The only bad guy sets were the Rahi, who came out late in the year. In 2003, the major sets were the Kal and the Rahkshi and the movie toys, so why focus the story on the search for the masks?


1.) Not... Quite... What I meant... (Make sure you read this carefully.) What I meant was, I rememebr the sequences like "Wow! Kopaka used his Huna and Mahiki to defeat that Muaka!" "Onua used his Matatu to help beat Lewa!" Nowadays... I mean, we see a shield every so often, but I think things would be a lot more exciting it we saw some Kanohi Fighting rather than just a Hau here and there. Not that elemental powers are bad, they rock too, but still...

Ah, I see what you mean. Well, there was not as much mask use in part because we had done that already -- and with the exception of being able to share the powers, the Nuva masks had the same powers as the old masks. But the masks were used for such things as escaping the Bahrag chamber. From my point of view, though, the elemental powers are just much more visual -- and with the exception of the masks of speed and strength, the mask powers were really much better for defense (at best) than they are for offense. As the Toa found out when they lost their powers, the masks aren't a ton of help in a fight.

I got comic #15 and have some serious questions here. If you haven't read #15, SPOILER warning!

2.) When during the movie did the Rahkshi Kaita scene take place.

I can't give you a specific moment in time.

3.)Exactly whose villigers were infected. They were in the jungle, but it looked like a Po and Ko Matoran. What's up?

They were. The shadow kraata had infected those villagers. Why them, and not Le-Matoran? Because having had a whole village krana'd at one point, the Le-Matoran have learned to be a lot more wary and are harder to take by surprise.

4.) How did they disinfect all those Matoran? (Not with Lysol, I'm sure...)

Same way all masks are disinfected. You have to use essentially the same ritual used to heal Tahu, except you need all six Toa to do it.

5.) Everybody is back on the surface of Mata Nui. How? How did they get passed the wall/gate? Now Takutanuva's sacrifice seems REALLY silly.

Why does it seem silly? Takutanuva's sacrifice was not about opening the door -- it was about giving up part of his life force for Jaller. Had he not done so, the door would not have crashed down on him, and Jaller would still be dead. Anyway, there are other passages out of Metru Nui to Mata Nui, but all of them were blocked by Makuta and as long as he was active they were impossible to get through. With him gone, the Toa Nuva were able to tunnel out.


6.) Jaller and an infected Matoran are carrying Kohlii sticks. Are they now standard hardware for your every-day Matoran?

Yes.

7.) Why does Gali never seem to have propellers on her hands??

Propellers on her hands? Why would she? The toy doesn't have that.

8.) Ok, so the hole that lets light in on Metru Nui is the hole in the volcano... But wouldn't somebody have noticed?

When's the last time you climbed down into a volcano crater? Especially an active volcano?

8b.) Even if they didn't notice, I assume the volcano is relatively high up. The sun would have to be almost right overhead for much light to get in. Are Metru Nui's days really short?

Now? Quite possibly yes. But not in the old days, for reasons I cannot go into.

8c.) If that's the hole letting light in, where does the lave come from? (Refering to eruption in comic #3) Every diagram of a volcano I've ever seen has the lava coming straight up from way below...

It's quite possible it still does. It wasn't an active volcano at the time the 2004 story was set.

9.) How come the area where the MOL was was forbidden?

Most likely for the same reasons that Takua almost got French-fried. It was an extremely dangerous place to be.

Thanks Greg

Okay, more answers from Greg!

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In the new comic, on the Matoran bios page, there's a picture of a plant. Is it one of these Morbuzakh? Yup. Is Makuta even in this storyline? Can't answer it. Will we see Takua next year? I know he makes at least one brief appearance, not sure where else he will show up. Okay, let me phrase this last question in a way you can answer: Concerning Whenua's, Nokama's, and Nuju's weapons. Are they like "traditional" weaponry (like axes, swords, shields) or are they out-of-the-ordinary (like Onewa's pitons)? Oh, well, hmmmm ... I would say Whenua's is more traditional, Nuju's less so.

-Master of the Rahkshi

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QUOTE  Did the matoran/toa/truaga build Metru-nui? Will the 2004 story line answer any of the many questions behind the bohrok and/or the exo-toa and their construcion be anserwed? thank you again Greg!  1) The Matoran population of Metru Nui has certainly been involved in some building there, but I do not know if they originally built the entire city from scratch. And I know the Matoran/Toa didn't, because prior to becoming Toa they were just six more Matoran. 2) No, not really, although you might get some clues. Greg

we're squeezing more and more info out of him JOY!

Here're mine:

Me: Hi, Greg, I was wondering if the infected Hau Nuva will ever appear in the comics?
Greg: No, comic 15+ is based after the Mask Of Light so therefore the Contaminated Hau Nuva will not appear.

I know this might be pointless but I thought it could be helpful for those who haven't seen spoilers or read the comic.

(V)